Fire companies responded to the Peanut World on the Atlantic City Boardwalk for a reported building fire.
See story on page 4
Vacant Barbour Estate Fire Through the Roof
Firefighters operated at a second alarm fire on Broadway, at the Barbour Estate.
See story on page 8
Fast Stop at Dooney’s Pub
Crews responded to Dooney’s Pub on Tilton Road, for the report of a structure fire.
See story on page 10
Toms River Home
Heavily
Damaged in Fire
Crews arrived to heavy fire showing from three sides of a large two-story home.
See story on page 12
Several Units Destroyed at Prime Storage
Lindenwold and mutual aid crews work to extinguish fire in icy and sub-freezing temperatures.
See story on page 14
The Bergen County Meeting and Party
The Bergen County Firemen’s Home Association hosted their annual event in Boonton.
See story on page 31
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Peanut World Store
Damaged by Fire
On December 5, 2025, Atlantic City Fire Companies responded to the Peanut World Convenience store on the Atlantic City Boardwalk for a reported building fire. Units encountered heavy smoke from a distance and arrived to fire showing from multiple window air conditioning units with heavy fire in the store. A second alarm was transmitted and crews placed multiple lines into operation. Crews were able to bring the fire under control within an hour and the cause of the fire was under investigation.
– Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
Massive Barn Fire in Vincentown
On January 4, 2026, Chief Mitchell arrived to a fully involved barn with exposure problems and people entering the structure. A tender shuttle and pond operations were utilized for a water supply as the area has no hydrants. Companies were able to keep the fire from spreading from the original fire building. Several tractors and hay in winter storage were destroyed. Personnel remained on location for several hours working with excavators to extinguish and overhaul the fire. No injuries were reported. County and State Fire Marshals are investigating the cause of the fire. – Fire News photos by Dave Hernandez
Vacant Barbour Estate Fire Through the Roof
Fire Department operated at a second alarm fire on Broadway, at the Barbour Estate on January 5, 2026. On arrival, companies reported heavy fire on the second floor and through the roof of a large 2-1/2 story vacant building. Apparatus placement was difficult due to the building being set back from the street and down a hill. Water supply in the area was also limited and command transmitted a second alarm within five minutes of arrival. Heavy fire vented through the roof of the north wing of the building as a ladder pipe, deck gun and several large exterior handlines were placed into operation.
Paterson
– Fire News photos by Ron Bombaro & Peter Danzo
Fast Stop at Dooney’s Pub
The Bargaintown and Cardiff Companies responded to Dooney’s Pub on Tilton Road, for the report of a structure fire. Bargaintown Chief Gene Sharpe arrived, established command, and reported smoke showing and requested a response from the Scullville and RIT from the City of Northfield. Bargaintown Rescue 1527’s crew stretched a 1-¾ inch line and quickly extinguished a fire in one of the back rooms. The cause of the fire was investigated by the EHTFD Fire Official.
– Fire News photo Ken & Cindy Badger
Abandoned School Fire in Paterson
On December 7, 2025, Paterson Fire Department responded to a fire at an abandoned school on Wayne Avenue. The fire went to three alarms before crews put it out.
– Fire
News photos by Ron Bombaro
Toms River Home Heavily Damaged
On December 21, 2025, all Toms River Fire companies, along with Island Heights Fire Department, responded to Keats Avenue for a house fire. Crews arrived to heavy fire showing from three sides of a large two-story home. A combination attack was conducted knocking down heavy fire from the exterior while stretching multiple lines into the interior to knock down the remaining fire.
– Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
Detached Garage Engulfed in Egg Harbor
Cardiff and Bargaintown from the Egg Harbor Fire Department dispatched to Ivins Avenue for a report of a structure fire. Cardiff Chief Wm. Danz III arrived and established command for a detached garage that was fully involved and requested Tanker 1538 from Scullville due to the remote location of the fire. Command had the crew of the first-due Cardiff engine pull two lines and begin hitting the fire. Upon the arrival of Bargaintown’s engines, they supplied the scene with their tank water and assisted with extinguishment and overhaul. The fire was contained to the building of origin and was investigated by the EHTFD Fire Official. Also responding were EHT Police and EHT EMS.
– Fire News photos by Cindy Badger/Ken Badger
Lindenwold, and mutual aid crews, worked to extinguish fire in multiple storage units in icy and sub-freezing temperatures at Prime Storage on Egg Harbor Road in Lindenwold on January 2, 2026. – Fire News photos by Frank Saia
Graduates of Firefighter 1 Class in Egg Harbor
The Atlantic County Firefighters Association graduated their 2025 Fall Firefighter 1 Class on January 5, 2026, at the Egg Harbor Township Community Center.
– Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
10 Residents Displaced by Fair Lawn House Fire
On January 21, 2026, Fair Lawn firefighters rescued a kitten from a home that was severely damaged in a second-alarm house fire. Fair Lawn Police gained entry during the fire and were able to save the kitten. Fair Lawn was dispatched to a report of smoke coming from a house on 3rd Street at 2155 hours. Upon arrival, Chief Mike Salvini transmitted a general alarm and then a second alarm. All four Fair Lawn companies responded bringing approximately 45 firefighters to the scene. The fire was in a bedroom on the second floor and was declared under control in about 35 minutes with Fair Lawn units remaining on scene until after midnight. Chief Michael Salvini said, “We had a quick knockdown of the fire. The freezing conditions produced a very hazardous condition both inside and outside of the building. Although we were able to quickly put out the fire there was major damage to the structure.” One police officer was transported for smoke inhalation as a precaution. One resident was treated for smoke inhalation but did not require hospitalization. The Fair Lawn Office of Emergency Management assisted in the relocation of 10 residents. The Fair Lawn Rescue Squad, the Fair Lawn Volunteer Ambulance Corp, the Fair Lawn Police Department, and the Fair Lawn Office of Emergency Management also assisted on the scene. Mutual aid came from Elmwood Park, Glen Rock, Paramus, Paterson and Saddle Brook fire departments. The fire was under investigation by the Fair Lawn Fire Prevention Bureau.
– Submitted by Doug Sadowski, PIO; Photo Credit: Andrey Golik & Scott Osback
March Updates: NJEPA 2026 Conference & Scholarship
March is a key month for the New Jersey Emergency Preparedness Association as planning continues for the 2026 NJEPA Conference, and several important application and nomination deadlines quickly approach.
Conference registration is open for the 2026 NJEPA Conference, taking place April 20–24, 2026, at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City. Secure your spot at New Jersey’s premier emergency management conference, featuring training, networking, and professional development opportunities for emergency management and public safety professionals! In addition to conference registration, several scholarship and award opportunities are currently accepting applications and nominations:
• 2026 New Jersey Certified Emergency Manager (NJCEM) Scholarship Applications are open through March 31, 2026 This scholarship supports emergency management professionals pursuing NJCEM certification and continued professional growth.
• 2026 Kevin H. Tuno Emergency Manager of the Year Award Nominations close March 18, 2026. This award recognizes an outstanding emergency management professional who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication, and service to their community.
• 2026 Student Scholarships honoring Captain Jonathan C. Young and Michael Augustyniak Applications close March 18, 2026. These scholarships support students pursuing education in emergency management and related fields, honoring the lasting legacy of leadership and commitment to public service.
Members and partners are encouraged to visit www.njepa.org for full details on conference registration, scholarship applications, and award nominations. Don’t miss these important opportunities to engage, recognize excellence, and invest in the future of emergency management in New Jersey.
5-Alarm Warehouse Fire Brings Crews from Across Union County
On January 1, 2026, the Roselle Park Fire Department responded to a warehouse fire on Valley Road. Crews arrived to a welladvanced fire through the roof. The fire quickly reached fivealarms and mutual aid responded from across Union County and beyond. Despite 40-foot flames and embers traveling for blocks, there was only one other minor fire sparked by embers which was quickly extinguished. No other exposures were involved. Crews remained on scene into January 2, 2026, conducting fire watch.
– Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
Spirit of CLAFAA Award Presented to Al Jacoby
Our Spirit of CLAFAA (Cradle of Liberty Antique Fire Apparatus Association) award is presented in recognition of consistent activity supporting and furthering the objectives of the CLAFAA to preserve fire and emergency services history.
Congratulations to New Jersey CLAFAA Member Al Jacoby, the recipient of our 2025 Spirit of CLAFAA Award. Award Committee Co-Chair Keith Knight presented the award during our December 2025 CLAFAA Membership meeting held at our Repaupo Fire Museum. Al is a Life Member of our CLAFAA and served as CLAFAA’s New Jersey Director for more than a decade, recently retiring from the position after his 2024 term of office.
Al continues to serve as a member of our CLAFAA Audit Committee. He is our in-house grounds, landscape, and hardscape consultant for our Repaupo Fire Museum. Al designed the layout for Repaupo’s outside Veteran’s Memorial Commons and coordinated installation of the paver patio at Repaupo’s outside Fire Siren Garden. Al also designed and planted the garden in front of Repaupo’s corner sign. Al also regularly helps to promote our CLAFAA and the preservation of fire service history by forwarding pictures and news for our CLAFAA’s social media outlets including our Facebook Page.
Thank you, Al, for everything you do for our CLAFAA and the preservation of fire and emergency services history.
– Fire News photo by Chris Denton
Atlantic City Highrise Fire Fast Knockdown
The Atlantic City Fire Department responded to the 2800 block of Atlantic Avenue on January 14, 2026, for a report of a fire in a highrise. The first arriving chief reported heavy fire showing from the A/B corner of the building and requested a second alarm. The fire took about an hour to control with overhaul and searches of floors above and below the fire floor.
– Fire News photos Dennis C. Sharpe
The 2026 NJCFCA Board Sworn in
The 2026 New Jersey Career Fire Chiefs Association (NJCFCA) Board was sworn in at its December meeting in Belleville by GovernorElect Mikie Sherrill.
Pictured from left to right) Chief Jonathan Yahr (Lakewood), Chief Anthony Vecchio (West Orange), Chief (Retired) Nelson W Wiest (Atlantic City International Airport), Chief Edward Mullen (Perth Amboy) [Second Vice President], Chief Antonio Gary (Irvington) [First Vice President], Chief William Eaton (North Plainfield) (President), and Governor-Elect Mikie Sherrill. – Submitted by Kelly Gabliks
House Fire Near Kearny Station
The Kearny Fire Department was dispatched to a reported fire in the basement on Davis Avenue. Crews did not have far to go as the house was located one block from their station. On arrival, companies found a working fire in a threestory frame, multiple dwelling and requested a second alarm. Within five minutes, command ordered all companies to evacuate and set up for a defensive attack. Heavy fire was running the walls and extending into the cockloft. Jersey City L-9 crew vented the roof and reported heavy fire from the vent hole and they retreated from the roof and repositioned their truck for ladder pipe operations. Kearny Tower 2 also repositioned their truck for aerial operations on the A/B corner, one deck gun, ground monitors and several outside handlines were put into service as heavy fire vented from the roof and top floor. There were no injuries reported. – Fire News photos by Peter Danzo
Dog Rescued from Brick
New Year’s Eve Fire
Just after midnight on New Year’s Day, the first fire call of the year for Brick, came in when a caller reported a fire at a gas station on Route 88. A Laurelton chief was first to arrive to a house on Roosevelt Drive that was behind the gas station. The chief was able to hold the fire in check with water cans until crews arrived. The family was not home at the time of the fire but one dog was rescued by police. – Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
2 Counties Respond to House Fire in New Gretna
Fire departments of New Gretna (Burlington County) and West Tuckerton (Ocean County) were dispatched on October 31, 2025, to Route 9 for a report of a structure fire. New Gretna Assistant Chief Thomas Wetmore arrived, established command, and upgraded the assignment to an all hands and requested a tanker task force to the scene, bringing tankers from Burlington, Ocean and Atlantic counties. The fire involved a 1-1/2-story wood-frame dwelling, with smoke and fire visible in the attic. Firefighters laddered the structure and opened up using saws to cut away the window and make an opening to access the fire. The fire was contained to the attic area. Responding were: New Gretna, West Tuckerton, Mystic Island, Lower Bank, Oceanville, Germania, Port Republic, Elwood, Weekstown, Scullville, Egg Harbor City (Ladder 10 covered New Gretna), Manahawkin (covered New Gretna), East Vineland (Covered Germania), New Jersey Forest Fire Service B4, Galloway Twp. EMS. – Fire News photo by Ken Badger
Up Close & Personal
Cardiff Firefighter
Tammy Naylor picking up following a structure fire on MLK Avenue on December 13, 2025. – Fire News photo by Cindy Badger
Ocean View Restaurant HVAC Fire
Mays Landing firefighter
Taylor Mondorff at a vehicle fire on Wrangleboro Road on January 2, 2026. Taylor is home on military leave. Thank you for your service!
– Fire News photo by Ken Badger
Marmora Firefighter Kevin Rafael and his family following his graduation from FF1 on January 5, 2026. – Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Even Santa Goes to Work
Even Santa pitched in to pick up hose following a working fire in Cardiff on December 13, 2025.
– Fire News photo by Cindy Badger
New Year’s Eve 2025 crews from Station 44 were dispatched to the Ocean View Restaurant for an activated fire alarm. While units were responding, multiple calls were received reporting a fire on the rooftop of the restaurant. First-arriving units reported a visible column and the working fire was transmitted, bringing in companies from Seaside Park, Lavalette, Ocean Beach, and East Dover. Units found a HVAC unit on fire on the rooftop, which was quickly knocked down. Minor extension was found in the second floor and significant water damage was done to the restaurant. – Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
The City of Somers Point Fire Department in Atlantic County were dispatched to Second Street on January 1, 2026 at approximately 1155 hours, for a report of a structure fire. Firefighters arrived to find a fire in the rear of a two-story wood-frame, single-family dwelling. Mutual aid from the City of Linwood (Ladder 5), Scullville (Ladder 1535), Northfield (RIT), and Bargaintown (cover) was requested. Two lines were stretched from Somers Point’s first-due engine to the rear of the structure, and the fire was brought under control quickly. An extensive overhaul was needed to ensure no further fire spread, and the New Jersey Division of Fire Safety investigated the cause.
– Fire News photos by Ken Badger
New Years Day Fire in Somers Point
Bayville 3rd Floor Fire Quickly Stopped
Bayville Fire Companies arrived to the dead end at Harbor Court to find a large three-story home with smoke and fire showing from the top floor. Station 17’s crew made quick work of the fire along with fire companies from Manitou Park, Pinewald Pioneer, and Pine Beach. – Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
EX-CHIEF BOB KUTCH JOINS KONSTANT DESIGN
After 30+ years of sales and service experience, to continue providing the Fire Service with the quality of products and attention you need and expect, I have made the decision to join the Konstant Design team as of January 1, 2026.
Konstant Design is known for excellent service and attention to detail in the custom apparel design and manufacturing industry. Whether your department is celebrating a wet down for a new vehicle, hosting a local or regional parade or honoring a
fallen brother or sister, we stand ready to work with you to design a top quality garment.
I look forward to continuing my many valued, existing relationships and to bringing new customers on board as we move forward together to honor the service of our brother and sister firefighters.
Konstant Design – Premium Apparel.
Bold Designs. Built to Perform.
KUSSMAUL ELECTRONICS WELCOMES DAMON LEWIS AS VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES
Kussmaul Electronics proudly announces the appointment of Damon Lewis as Vice President of Sales, effective December 2025. This strategic leadership addition reflects Kussmaul’s continued commitment to the Emergency Vehicle industry and its future growth. Damon brings more than two decades of experience in the Emergency Vehicle industry and is widely recognized for his ability to foster long‐term customer relationships, lead high‐performing sales teams, and drive strategic growth. He has held senior roles in sales and business development at Whelen Engineering, Code 3, and Fouts Bros., serving both domestic and international markets across Fire and EMS segments.
His leadership background, combined with technical product expertise and a deep understanding of operational challenges, makes Damon uniquely equipped to understand the evolving needs of the industry and deliver practical, effective solutions. In his new role at Kussmaul, Damon will lead the company’s sales team and commercial strategy across North America and international markets, with a focus on customer experience, growth,
and strengthened relationships across the Emergency Vehicle industry. He will work closely with OEMs, dealers, and departments to expand the company’s market presence while upholding the high standards of quality and service that Kussmaul is known for. Additionally, Damon will serve as Vice President of International Sales for MCE Vehicle Power, where he will work closely with Xantrex, one of Kussmaul’s sister companies, to strengthen the division’s global presence. “We’re excited to welcome Damon to the Kussmaul leadership team,” said Dale Tompkins, President of Vehicle Power at MCE. “His experience, integrity, and customer‐first mindset align perfectly with our mission to support those who serve.”
Damon’s appointment marks an important step forward in Kussmaul’s commitment to providing dependable, innovative power solutions that keep emergency vehicles energized and ready when seconds count.
For media inquiries or additional information, please contact: Valeria Donoghue Marketing Manager valeria.donoghue@mce‐llc.com
ULTRA BRIGHT LIGHTZ IS EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE A MAJOR MILESTONE IN THE COMPANY’S GROWTH: THE MOVE TO A NEW, EXPANDED FACILITY AT 1401 LINCOLN AVE IN HOLBROOK, NY.
This relocation marks an important step forward as Ultra Bright Lightz continues to scale operations, enhance efficiency, and better serve customers across the country.
The new facility offers significantly more space for inventory, assembly, and shipping, allowing the team to streamline workflows and increase overall production capacity. With improved layout and upgraded infrastructure, Ultra Bright Lightz is now better positioned to manage higher order volumes while maintaining the quality and attention to detail that customers expect.
“This move represents more than just a change of address,” said Justin Tomney, Ultra Bright Lightz President. “It’s an investment in our future and in the customers who rely on our products every day.” The expanded warehouse enables faster fulfillment times, improved organization, and room for continued product innovation.
In addition to operational benefits, the new location provides a more comfortable and efficient workspace for employees. Enhanced lighting, improved logistics flow, and dedicated areas for specialized tasks help create an environment where the team can perform at its best.
Importantly, the move was planned with minimal disruption to customers. Orders continue to ship as scheduled, and customer support
remains fully operational throughout the transition. Ultra Bright Lightz remains committed to delivering the same reliable service while building a stronger foundation for long-term growth.
As Ultra Bright Lightz settles into its new home, the company looks ahead with excitement. The move reflects confidence in the brand’s momentum and reinforces its commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. This new chapter positions Ultra Bright Lightz to shine brighter than ever in the years to come.
REMEMBER FALLEN FIREFIGHTERS, ONE BELL AT TIME
Each year, the sound of bells carries across the country in a powerful act of remembrance.
Bells Across America for Fallen Firefighters is a moving nationwide tribute honoring America’s firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice. Fire departments, places of worship, carillonneurs, and community organizations unite to ring bells in their memory—ensuring they are never forgotten.
This tribute takes place during National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend, when the nation pauses to honor those who died in the line of duty. By ringing bells on the weekend of May 2–3, 2026, you send a clear
message to Fire Hero Families: your loved one’s service and sacrifice will always be remembered. Whether you toll a single bell at your station, host a public ceremony, or invite your entire community to participate, your involvement matters.
Add your bell to the national chorus of remembrance.
1 Rescued from Paterson House Fire
On January 2, 2026, Battalion 1 called in a house fire on Pacific Street. Crews arrived to heavy smoke showing from a large three-story home that was attached on the Delta side with an entrapment in the basement. Crews were able to quickly make the rescue as fire extended into the delta side home. A second alarm was transmitted bringing additional resources to the scene. Units worked on scene for nearly two hours.
– Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
Paterson MVA Leaves 1 Entrapped and Injured
Paterson Fire Department operated at an MVA with a taxi on its side and a person entrapped at Grand Street and Hamilton Street on December 30, 2025. – Fire News photos by Ron Bombaro
The Cologne, Laureldale and Mays Landing fire departments from the Township of Hamilton responded to Wrangleboro Road on January 2, 2026 at 1027 hours, for the report of a vehicle fire. Mays Landing Chief Lou DiMartine arrived, established command, and reported a vehicle with an engine compartment fire away from the structure. Command had the first-arriving engine from Laureldale come in the driveway and stretch a line onto the fire. Firefighters contained the fire to the engine compartment and the cause was investigated by the Township of Hamilton Fire Official. – Fire News photos by Ken Badger
Fire Contained to Pickup Cab in Cologne
The Bergen County Firemen’s Home Association Lunch Meeting and Christmas Party December 5, 2025
By Justin Watrel
The first weekend in December was time for the members of the Bergen County Firemen’s Home Association to host their annual Christmas lunch and resident party at the NJ State Firemen’s Home in Boonton.
In December our organization does not have a formal meeting but rather a member’s lunch shared by both the members and the staff, so that we all can celebrate the successes we’ve had this year. It was a productive and profitable year of fundraising and that will help us sponsor more programming at the home. We want to thank all the Bergen County firehouses for their generous donations in making the lives of our fellow brothers so comfortable.
This afternoon buffet is a way for members and their family and for the hardworking staff at the home to know how much we care for all their love and support of the residents who live here. None of us could do what we do without
them. After lunch was over, we joined the residents and some of their family members in the main recreation room for entertainment and our visit from Santa.
Our DJ and Master of Ceremony for the event, BCFHA member John McLoghlin who was joined with the musical talents of member, Jerry Naylis’s granddaughters and resident favorite, Gigi in an afternoon of Christmas carols and songs. After the girl’s performance, entertainer Gigi rocked the room with a series of popular Christmas songs and warm holiday wishes to all the residents and their family members in the audience. In the middle of the concert, we had a quick pause as a very special visitor arrived from the North Pole as Santa led our break in the concert for gift gifting. The Bergen County Firemen’s Home Association members assisted Santa with handing out our organization’s gift to all the residents. This was very well received.
All good things come to an end plus Santa had to make his trip back to the North Pole and the afternoon wrapped up. The membership of the Bergen County Firemen’s Home Association took our annual group picture. I could not ask for a greater group of men who are so dedicated to making the lives of our brothers at the home so comfortable. We never want to forget the firefighters who came before us and set the tone for the brotherhood!
Smoke & Fluid Spill at Bargaintown MVA
The Bargaintown and Scullville companies were dispatched on November 25, 2025, at 1008 hours to Bargaintown Road for the report of an MVA with a vehicle smoking. Bargaintown Chief Eugene Sharpe arrived, established command, and had Bargaintown Rescue 1527, use its spreader to open the hood and disconnect the battery. Then firefighters spread drying agent on the roadway to absorb any spilled fluids. The cause of the crash was investigated by EHT Police. – Fire News photos by Ken Badger
Historic Pierce Lance Up for Sale
1989
and served as Engine
The engine was sold off to a private entertainment company that did children’s parties. In the middle of December 2025, the company downsized and now the pumper is up for sale. It still has the multiple gaming systems and flat screens in the compartments. – Fire News photo by Chris Denton
This
Pierce Lance was originally built and served in Rutherford after many years of service it was sold and acquired by Woodridge
901.
Vacant Building Fire in Camden
Crews arrived to a Chestnut Street address and encountered a heavy fire conditions in a vacant dwelling. Battalion 1 struck the all hands within 10 minutes and continued interior operations. The fire was brought under control in about 30 minutes.
– Fire News photos by Ed Hutchinson
Basement Fire Stopped in East Rutherford
On January 2, 2026, the East Rutherford Fire Department responded to a call at Prospect Terrace for a reported fire. Crews arrived to heavy smoke showing from an elevated twostory home. Crews located the fire in the basement. A second alarm was struck bringing mutual aid from Rutherford, Wallington and Carlstadt. The fire was placed under control a half-hour after arrival.
– Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
Driver Ends Up in Woods in Egg Harbor
The volunteer fire companies of Bargaintown and Scullville from the Egg Harbor Township Fire Department responded to the intersection of Pine and Ocean Heights Avenues on January 2, 2026, for an MVA with entrapment. Firefighters extricated one person who was transported by Egg Harbor Township Ambulance to the hospital. The crash was under investigation by Egg Harbor Township Police.
– Fire News photos by Dennis C. Sharpe
Car Fire on Union Blvd. in Totowa
Totowa Fire Department operated at a fully involved car fire in the middle of Union Boulevard on the evening of December 27, 2025.
– Fire News photo by Ron Bombaro
Egg Harbor’s Annual Memorial Services
The Atlantic County Firefighters Association held their annual memorial services at the Egg Harbor City Fire Department on January 21, 2026. Remarks were given by Association President Chuck Macintosh, Jr., in remembrance of the 35 firefighters who answered their final alarm. Remarks were also given by Atlantic County Commission Chairman John Risley who swore in the new officers along with Association Executive Chairman Howard Berchtold, Jr. – Fire News photos by Dennis C. Sharpe and A.J. Malave
Chester Hosts
New Year’s Day Parade
To ring in 2026 the annual Chester Fire Company New Year’s Day parade was held along Main Streewt featuring many area fire companies in the line of march.
– Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
Bargaintown
Hosts Open House
The Bargaintown Volunteer Fire Company from the Egg Harbor Township Fire Department held their annual open house on October 20, 2025, at their Mill Road station. Activities for the children were held, along with a raffle for a YETI cooler. Refreshments were distributed along with fire prevention literature.
– Fire News photos by Ken Badger
Old Tappan Installation of Line Officers
The Old Tappan Volunteer Fire Department’s Line (Firefighting) Officers were officially installed at the January 2026 meeting of the Mayor and Council. Sworn in by Old Tappan Mayor Tom Gallagher were, Chief of Department Charles Anders IX, Deputy Chief Chris Reilly, Captain Kristel Mockler, and Lieutenants Nick Chriscoulo, Steve Naylis, Brady Gallagher and Christopher Husslein. Left to right: Lieutenants Christopher Husslein, Brady Gallagher, Steve Naylis, Nick Chriscoulo, Captain Kristel Mockler, Deputy Chief Chris Reilly, and Chief Charles Anders IX. - Submitted by Bill Auth, Chairman, Publicity Committee; photo by Caden Gallagher
Deptford Fire School Graduates
Egg Harbor Fire Installation 2026
to right: Patrick Flynn is the new Chief of the Egg Harbor Township Fire Department in Atlantic County,
Deputy Chief, and Anthony Ang is President. – Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Members of the Deptford Fire Department with their recruits following their fire school graduation on January 5, 2026. – Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Left
Wm. Danz III is
Tribute
Ex-Chief John J. Rinaldi
Firefighter and ex-Chief John J. Rinaldi responded to his last alarm on January 8, 2026. He was 66-years old. Ex-Chief Rinaldi was a veteran of over 40 years in the volunteer firefighting service and was a member of three different volunteer fire departments, Fort Lee, River Vale and Old Tappan, during his firefighting career. During those years he served as a Fireman, Fire Officer up through the ranks to Chief of Department, and later as a “senior man” who shared his knowledge and experience with younger members of the three departments in which he served.
Members of those departments turned out to render honors as Firefighter Rinaldi responded to his last alarm. An honor guard was posted by his casket during the viewing hours. then was placed upon a ceremonial fire engine and passed in review past the Quarters of both the River Vale and Old Tappan Volunteer Fire Departments. The apparatus bearing his casket paused in front of the Quarters of the Old Tappan Volunteer Fire Department as a ceremonial last alarm was transmitted during which the dispatcher intoned “Firefighter and Ex-Chief John J. Rinaldi you stand relieved; we’ll take it from here.” - Submitted by Bill Auth, Chairman, Publicity Committee
Photo Credit: Kristel Mockler
Santa Comes in Many Forms –1st Responders, Community Save Christmas
In the early morning hours of December 13, 2025, a Heislerville (Cumberland County) family experienced a devastating loss when their home was destroyed by fire. Thankfully, everyone made it out safely, but the family was left with very little, just 12 days before Christmas. Among those affected was seven-year-old Lucy, who lost all of her belongings, and in the days following the fire, she shared a heartbreaking concern: Santa Claus wouldn’t be able to find her because he didn’t know where she lived anymore. A family member reached out to the Cologne Volunteer Fire Company of the Township of Hamilton and asked if anything could be done. What followed was an incredible display of compassion, teamwork, and community spirit. With overwhelming support and coordination from all of the volunteer fire companies (Mays Landing, Laureldale, Weymouth and Cologne), Township EMS and Police, all came together as one community and created a true Christmas miracle for Lucy. The Cologne fire company would like to thank all the first responders and community members who stepped up to make this possible. This is a powerful reminder that when our community comes together, we can make a lasting differenceespecially when it matters the most. – Fire News photos by Ken Badger
