VOLUME 13, NO. 11
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Serving New Jersey's Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes APRIL 2019
Full story on page 6 - Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com
NJEPA Keynote Speakers Named for 21st Annual Conference See Pages 10 &18.
– New Jersey Edition –
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Fire News, April 2019, Page 3
In this issue... Fatality at Washington Twp. Blaze One person died in a house and barn fire. See story on page 8
Paterson 4-Alarmer Extends Gridlocked traffic, sub-freezing temps make for a tough firefight. See story on page 12
Collyer’s Mansion Fire in Maywood Blocked staircases and windows make for a difficult night, which results in a near collapse. See story on page 16
Looking Back: Camden and Pleasantville The 10-alarm Poets Row fire and the beginning of Heavy Rescue 7. See stories on page 24
12 Displaced by Kearney Blaze What started as a smoke condition becomes a basement fire that spreads through the walls and attic. See story on page 29
Up Close and Personal
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 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, 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 2019, THE FIRE NEWS LLC., 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:
A closer look at responders from around the state. See pages 32-33
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 26 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 28 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 30 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 32
Official Publication of the NJ State Firemen’s Convention
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
When Does Training End? I recently overheard a conversation between two firefighters who were talking about all of the experience they had in their department. I looked up and asked, “how many years have you been in the department?” I actually chuckled when I was told by one of the members that he had six years of experience in the fire service. I am willing to bet that as you read my last sentence, you too have a smile on your face. Truthfully, being a first responder is a job that requires constant training and practice from your first day on the job until your last. Years of service does not necessarily qualify you to say that you are an experienced responder. This time of the year, I get nervous because we are entering brush fire season. Let’s face it, many firefighters have very little experience fighting brush fires. I am sure if you have been in the fire service for a few years, you have encountered a brush fire that might appear large to you upon arrival, but in reality it was a small fire that was quickly knocked down by two or three members who were lucky enough to be part of the crew on the brush truck. The fire that I worry about is the wind-driven brush fire that manages to take advantage of the strong winds of spring and runs through an area like a freight
train. The next time you sit in your ready room, share stories of brush fires of the past that have challenged your department. Training never ends. All responders need to know every aspect of their job. Are you able to perform your job when the conditions get rough? Ask yourself if you are truly physically fit to perform under challenging conditions. Kudos to those members that go to the gym regularly to maintain their fitness and cardio performance. Are you a student of your craft? Do you read articles that talk about recent fires or new products? When was the last time you came down to the firehouse and took a short rope and performed some of the basic knots with which you’re supposed to be proficient? Do you know how to use that knot to quickly hoist a line or a tool to a roof? If you think you can, challenge yourself and do it! Talking about forcing a door is not the same as doing it. Don’t wait for the yearly drill on a specific tool. You must remain proficient in the techniques and operations that you use every day. Regardless of your years of experience, your current rank or your rank from the past, lead by example. Remain dedicated to your job. Study, practice, try new things, and ask
Announcements BUNNY LUNCH On Sunday, April 7, 2019, from 1200 to 1400, the Apshawa Volunteer Fire Company will hold a Bunny Lunch at the firehouse at 666 Macopin Road in West Milford. Tickets are $8 per person and include lunch (slice of pizza, beverage and dessert and a photo with the Easter bunny. For tickets call 201-306-1170.
2019 SPRING COMEDY NIGHT On Friday, April 12, 2019, the Apshawa Volunteer Fire Company will hold its Spring Comedy Night starting at 1900, at the firehouse at 666 Macopin Road in West Milford. The three-comedian show is presented by Danny C Entertainment. Tickets are $20 per person - BYOB. For tickets call Rob at 201-306-1174. The auxiliary will have snacks, desserts and water available for purchase.
APSHAWA FC FISH N’ CHIPS DINNER Give mom a night off before Mother’s Day. The Apshawa Volunteer Fire Company Auxiliary will be hosting a Fish n’ Chip dinner, catered by Tastefully British on Friday, May 10, 2019, from 1700 to 1900 (1700 to 1830 for take-out), at the Apshawa Firehouse, 666 Macopin Road, in West Milford. Advance ticket sales only: Adults, $16; Seniors, $15; Children 10 and under, $8. Call 201-306-1170 for tickets before May 6. Dinner includes your choice of fish or chicken (selection made at time of ticket purchase); fries, coleslaw; water, dessert, coffee and tea.
WHERE ARE YOUR DEPARTMENT’S PHOTOS? We would like to remind our readers that we are always happy to receive photos and stories from departments who have never been in our paper. Feel free to e-mail your photos to nj@fire news.com. We ask that any photo you do send be high resolution (300 dpi or better) and that you do not retouch, crop, alter or reduce your photos in size when you e-mail them to us. Please send two to four photos per incident. Also, include a brief write-up of the incident, event, or family news, which includes basic “who, what, when, and where information.” We look forward to seeing your department in our next issue. - Ed.
questions! A story of the past that is shared with one another means nothing if it does not end with a lesson being shared and learned by others. When the alarm sounds, respond to the call with enthusiasm. If you miss the truck, stay at the firehouse until the truck returns. Offer to fill bottles, wash tools, and hear the story about the call. When does training end? I say never! - Dennis
Fire News Named Official Newspaper of the 2019 New Jersey Fire Expo and New Jersey Firemen’s Convention in Wildwood On March 7, 2019, the Five Mile Beach Volunteer Firemen’s Association (FMBVFA), the host of New Jersey State Firemen’s Convention and one of the largest fire expositions on the East Coast, the New Jersey Fire Expo, proudly announced that Fire News, a Northeast regional leader in reporting fire related news in seven states; by publishing six state and regional newspapers will be the Official Newspaper of the New Jersey Fire Expo™ and the New Jersey Firemen’s Convention. This year marks the seventh consecutive year that Fire News has been the official newspaper of the Convention and Expo, which is held in September each year. As always, this is also the largest fundraiser for the FMBVFA each year. FMBVFA President Dave Thompson remarked, “We are happy to continue our fundraising partnership with Fire News. As this marks the seventh year working together, we look forward to another successful year with Fire News. I view this relationship as a win-win for both organizations.” The Official Newspaper publishes information about the events of the convention and exposition, including a map of the vendors. The newspaper will also feature local advertising to help convention goers take advantage of the many opportunities available in the Wildwoods. The New Jersey State Firemen’s Convention Edition will be distributed free of charge to all attendees at the convention and the fire expo as they enter. The Five Mile Beach Volunteer Firemen’s Association would like to especially thank Frank Trotta, Publisher, and Tim Edwards, Vice President/Executive Editor of Fire News, for their cooperation in settling this agreement in a timely manner. Fire News is celebrating its 46th year in publishing their newspapers, and the FMBVFA congratulates them and look forward to a long working relationship. Further information can be obtained by e-mailing Fire News at tim@firenews.com.
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Cover Story
Parsippany 2-Alarmer
On December 27, 2018, just after 2100, firefighters from Parsippany and Mt. Tabor were dispatched to a report of a structure fire on Hillside Lane. First arriving crews found a fire in the attic of a 1-1/2 story home. Crews went to work on an interior attack and quickly knocked down the main body of fire. Fire broke through the roof for a couple of moments but was quickly extinguished. - Fire News photos by PuckStopperPhotography.com and Glen Duda, CFPA
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Clutter Hampers Belleville Firefight
On Christmas Eve 2018, the Belleville Fire Department was dispatched to Union Avenue for a house fire. Engine 2 arrived to heavy smoke showing. Crews were met with extreme Collyer’s Mansion conditions which limited entry and forced crews to conduct an exterior attack. Nutley Truck 1 and Bloomfield Engine 3
responded and East Orange, Orange and North Arlington covered. After nearly 40 minutes crews started to get the upper hand on the fire with minimal entry. Once conditions improved crews worked on clearing debris to conducted overhaul. - Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
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Little Ferry Commercial Fire
On December 23, 2018, the Little Ferry Fire Department responded to Gates Road for a waterflow alarm. On arrival companies were met with a heavy smoke condition in the rear of the structure. Upon investigation a fire was located in the rear storage/loading dock area involving a large amount of cardboard. The fire was contained to the immediate area by sprinklers but crews eventually evacuated the structure to hit the fire with exterior lines and reentered to continue overhaul. Mutual aid came from Hackensack, South Hackensack, Moonachie, Hasbrouck Heights, Wood Ridge, Wallington and Teaneck. - Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
Fatality at Washington Twp. Blaze At 2220 on January 21, 2019, Fairmount Fire Company, Long Valley Fire Company and Schooleys Mt. Fire Company were alerted for a structure fire on Pickle Road in Washington Township. First arriving units found a house well involved with a barn 20 feet from the house starting to burn. Command requested a second alarm and crews went to work with deck guns and master streams as mutual aid companies arrived. One crew went into the barn and extinguished the fire as the house was being brought under control. Companies remained on scene well into the morning, hitting hot spots. There was one fatality in which the Washington Township Police, Morris County Sheriff’s Office and Morris County Prosecutors Office were investigating. Mutual aid came from Chester, Pottersville, Califon, Budd Lake, Lebanon Township and Oldwick. The Long Valley First Aid Squad stood by the entire time for rehab and Morris County OEM sent a warming bus for firefighters. - Fire News photos by Kevin J. Maloney; AC, Budd Lake FC
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Bayonne Fire Goes to 5 Alarms
NJ Emergency Preparedness Association
Keynote Speakers Named for 21st Annual Conference NJEPA is pleased to announce the speakers for the Networking and Awards Reception on May 2, 2019, at the 21st Annual Conference being held at Tropicana Casino and Resort. Colonel Patrick Callahan from the New Jersey State Police will provide opening remarks. Colonel Callahan is a 24-year veteran of the State Police and a strong supporter of the Association. Deputy Chief Shawn Backer and Captain Ryan Gallagher from the Coral Springs, Florida Police Department will share a briefing on their presentation scheduled for Friday morning at 0900, Marjory Stoneman Douglass Response - Preparation, Lessons Learned and the Aftermath, of the Parkland, Florida school shootings. Friday’s presentation will provide an overview of the training and equipment deployment that preceded the tragedy at the high school on February 14, 2018. As first responders who were there, the presenters will provide their unique perspective on how the event unfolded that day, as well as the litany of issues their Department and community faced in the aftermath. Pre-registration is required for the Friday presentation; go to www.njepa.org to register. Dr. Adrienne Fessler Belli, Director, Disaster Terrorism Branch, Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services and Steven Crimando, Director of Training, from the New Jersey Department of Human Services will provide the keynote address on First Responder Resiliency and the Impact Public Safety has on the lives of First Responders. Tickets for this event may be purchased online at www.njepa.org.
A fire in Bayonne went to five alarms and destroyed four two-story frames on Andrew Avenue on February 2, 2019. The fire started around noon and took almost five hours to bring under control. - Fire News photos by Steve White
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Dogs Rescued at Bargaintown Blaze
THAT’S Why They Have Smoke Alarms
The volunteer fire companies of Bargaintown and Scullville responded to Ocean Heights Avenue on December 20, 2018, at 2352, for a structure fire. Cardiff Captain Mike Reinhard, who lives nearby, reported a fully involved structure fire. On arrival, firefighters were faced with heavy fire coming from an attached garage and extending into a two-story, wood frame, single-family dwelling. Firefighters did a primary search and rescued two family dogs. Additional manpower was requested from Cardiff and Somers Point. Responding were Bargaintown, Scullville, Cardiff, Somers Point, EHT Ambulance, EHT Police, Scullville ladies Auxiliary, City of Linwood Fire Department (covered Bargaintown) and Marmora (covered Scullville). - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
The Mizpah Volunteer Fire Company was dispatched for an automatic fire alarm on Harding Highway on January 7, 2019. Chief Jamie Davenport established command and reported nothing showing. Engine 1822, upon entering the building, was met with heavy smoke. Command then requested a response from Mays Landing and Richland. The smoke was the result of a malfunctioning wood burning stove with the fire alarm doing its job. No major damage occurred. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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Paterson 4-Alarmer Extends
On January 16, 2019, the Paterson Fire Department was dispatched to Madison and 21st Avenues for a fire. Crews arrived to heavy fire self-venting from the first and second floors of a residential structure. The fire extended to the Bravo exposure and damaged the Delta exposure but crews were able to prevent the fire from extending to that home. A second alarm was struck shortly after arrival followed by third and fourth alarms. Crews were forced to go defensive as heavy fire consumed the original fire building and eventually the Bravo exposure. Making the fire even more difficult to fight was gridlocked traffic on Route 80 and subfreezing temperatures. Crews remained on scene throughout the night dousing hot spots. - Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti and Peter Danzo
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Furniture Store Fire The volunteer fire companies of Farmington and Cardiff responded to West Black Horse Pike, and the Bless Home Furniture Outlet on January 22, 2019, for a structure fire. The building was metal and contained furniture and other household furnishings. Cardiff Chief Gilbert Zonge requested a second alarm and shortly thereafter updated it to a general alarm. Firefighters poured water onto the fire until it was brought under control. To ventilate the building, Scullville brought its Hovercraft to clear smoke from the warehouse section in the rear. Responding were Farmington, Cardiff, Bargaintown, Scullville, West Atlantic City, Pleasantville, Northfield, Linwood (covered Bargaintown), Somers Point, Mays Landing (covered Cardiff), EHT Ambulance, Atlanticare MAV Unit, Atlantic City Electric and South Jersey Gas. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
Full Collapse at Northfield House Fire The City of Northfield Fire Department responded to East Oakcrest Avenue at 0327 on February 19, 2019, for a dwelling fire. Firefighters arrived to find a two-story home well involved. Command immediately requested additional engines from Pleasantville, Linwood and Somers Point. Firefighters pulled numerous lines from the Northfield and Linwood engines in an attempt to darken down the fire but to no avail. The dwelling eventually collapsed with Northfield firefighters remaining on location well into the daylight hours. The cause of the fire was under investigation by the State of New Jersey Fire Marshals Office. Also responding were Cardiff, Scullville, Tri Care EMS and the Northfield Police. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
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Tom’s River Car Fire
Toms River Fire Company 1 and 2 were dispatched to a vehicle fire on February 1, 2019, at a commercial property on Highland Parkway. Engine 2561 arrived and quickly knocked down the fire with assistance from Engine 2671. - Fire News photo by Mike Nowacki
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Collyer’s Mansion Fire in Maywood
Maywood firefighters had to contend with bitterly cold temperatures compounded by severe Collyer’s Mansion conditions while fighting a fire in a garden apartment on Demarest Place on January 20, 2019. The address was a complex of two-story garden apartments built after WW II. Companies arrived to heavy smoke and fire visible from a second-floor bathroom window at which time a second alarm was requested. A handline was stretched to the entry door and that is as far as it could get as the stairwell was completely packed with clutter which needed to be removed before the line could advance. As a crew went to the roof for ventilation, ground ladders were set up and horizontal ventilation was attempted but, once again due to heavy clutter up against the windows, this proved to be fruitless. As firefighters worked to gain entry, an additional handline was used to knock down the fire visible in the window. Two more handlines were finally able to advance and the main body of fire was knocked down, however overhaul was long and tedious because of the clutter. As members were nearing completion of overhaul, command was advised that the floor was feeling spongy and it was discovered that due to the weight of all the storage compounded by the water used to fight the fire, several floor joists were damaged and at least two severely cracked. Command ordered all members out. The entire building was condemned until repairs could be made. The cause was determined to be unattended candles and incense. Several cats were rescued, however several other were found deceased. Mutual aid came from Hackensack, Rochelle Park, Saddle Brook and Paramus. - Fire News photos by Peter Danzo
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Passerby Saves 2 From Burning Building
On February 12, 2019, Central Dispatch received multiple calls of a structure fire with heavy smoke coming from the rear on South Route 9 in the Marmora section of Upper Township. Marmora Fire Rescue was dispatched with an update of two individuals being trapped in the second-floor residence and confirmed by many that the structure was quickly becoming fully involved. Marmora requested mutual aid from Seaville and Tuckahoe with an additional engine coming from Ocean City. Upon arrival, it was learned that a construction worker Jim Cox, who had a ladder in his truck, had rescued the two people trapped. The superior techniques utilized by the initial attack team, led by Captain Mark Barham, advanced the interior attack and quickly stopped the spread of the fire. The fire was placed under control in approximately two hours with the overhaul lasting into the late evening. Responding were Marmora Fire Rescue, Seaville Fire, Tuckahoe Fire, Ocean City Fire, Somers Point Fire, Upper Township Rescue, New Jersey State Police, AC Electric, South Jersey Gas, Cape May County Fire Marshall, Atlantic Care Paramedics. - Fire News photos by Robert Macom
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Manasquan 2-Alarmer
On February 16, 2019, the Manasquan Fire Department was dispatched for a structure fire on Curtis Avenue. The first arriving chief reported heavy smoke and fire coming from an upstairs condominium and requested a second alarm. Crews entered the structure and made an aggressive interior attack, quickly knocking down
a fire in the attic area. Four condominium units were affected by water damage. Assisting were Brielle, Sea Girt, Glendola, South Wall and Asbury Park. Spring Lake Heights provided coverage. The cause of the fire was under investigation by the Manasquan Fire Bureau. - Fire News photos by Mike Nowacki
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Taking Care of Their Own The volunteer fire companies of Mays Landing and Laureldale responded on December 18, 2018, to Milemarker 20.5 on Cape May Avenue (Route 50) for a report of a vehicle fire. The fire was actually in front of the EMS building and the fire was in the engine compartment of one of the member’s vehicle. Mays Landing firefighters, returning from a fire alarm, arrived quickly with Rescue 1816 and its crew pulled one line and made quick work of the fire. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
Quick Work in Millville The City of Millville Fire Department in Cumberland County responded to Main Street on February 22, 2019, for a dwelling fire. Firefighters arrived to find fire on the D side of the dwelling and quickly extinguished it. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
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Miscommunication? We’ll Say! On January 18, 2019, the Brick Fire Department Stations 21, 22 and 23 were dispatched to Lake Rivera for a report of someone possibly in the water. On arrival of police, a woman was found soaking wet, stating she thought her husband may be in the lake and attempted to try and locate him. She was treated by EMS. Point Pleasant Station 75 was also asked to respond with their dive team. Divers entered the water and searches came up negative. After nearly a half hour, contact was made with the husband who was at work and the sutuation was deemed a miscommunication. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
Mays Landing MVA The volunteer fire companies of Mays Landing and Laureldale were dispatched at 0624 on January 9, 2019, to 5th Street just west of Cape May Avenue for a report of an MVA with entrapment. Mays Landing Assistant Chief Ken Badger, Jr., arrived and established command for a vehicle on its driver’s side with the driver entrapped. Firefighters from Mays Landing Squad 1816 utilized a windshield cutter to remove the windshield, extracted the occupant, and turned her over to awaiting EMS. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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Happy Birthday Chief Winkler
Friends, family and colleagues gathered at Farmington Fire Company’s Charles Maxwell Hall on February 2, 2019, to wish Egg Harbor Township Fire Department Chief Rob Winkler a happy 50th birthday. After a buffet, serious and not so serious presents were opened. - Fire News photos by Dennis C. Sharpe
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Looking Back: Camden 10-Alarm Poets Row Fire On August 23, 1972, the Camden Fire Department fought one of the largest fires in the city’s history. A few years prior to the fire a large manufacturing company, the John A. Evans leather factory, founded in 1858, had recently closed. It was a huge two-story brick building that extended over three city blocks from North 2nd Street to the Delaware River. The building was being vandalized and on this windy day a fire broke out, and quickly spread throughout. The fire jumped across the street to a group of two-story brick row homes in a section called Poets Row, a residential area. Six streets were named after poets and each block had 20 to 30 row homes. The first-in company was Engine 6, which saw smoke en route. The captain radioed for a second alarm. Firefighters found a massive blaze of fire leaping across the street, setting several homes on fire. When the battalion chief arrived, he requested a third alarm. Chief of Department Edward Michalak was notified and, knowing the conditions in the area, requested the fourth alarm, as well as mutual aid from from Camden County, Pennsauken, Gloucester City, Oaklyn and Audubon. The fire quickly spread. One city block was heavily involved with 15-plus homes on fire. Chief Michalak requested two Philadelphia City fireboats to provide water from the Delaware River. The wind was blowing and caused the fire to spread to a second block of homes. The local residents were now panicking and trying to get their belongings. Firefighters and police officers were seen helping them rescue items. There were now over 25 homes fully involved and flames were spreading to a third block of homes. Within the hour, the vacant factory and three blocks were in flames. Firefighters were hampered by collapsing walls and roofs and falling power lines. Eventually, 10 alarms were sounded, and the entire 3-1/2 blocks were destroyed. The next morning the area looked like the ruins from a WW II European bombing, only the shells and foundations of many buildings remained. There were no lives lost or serious injuries. - Fire News photos by Bob Bartosz Bob Bartosz was the Camden Fire Department Fire Photographer Car 14. He retired in 2009 after 55 years on the job and will be 82 in June 2019 and is still taking fire photos, now for the Nash County (NC) Fire Department and the Rocky Mount City (NC) Fire Department. Bob can be reached at: civilwarbnp@gmail.com.
Looking Back: Pleasantville Heavy Rescue 7
Looking Back at the City of Pleasantville Volunteer Fire Company row left to right): Jack McKillop, Bob Seaman, Paul Payne, Joe 2 members who established Heavy Rescue 7 after they completed Seaman, Mickey McFadden, Joe McLaughlin, John W. Sharpe, heavy rescue training at the State Police Barracks in Hammonton. Woody McGowan, Gene Stetser, Bob Brady, unknown trooper. - Fire News photo from the All but two members in the photo are deceased. (Front row: left to collection of Ken Badger right): Tony Cardile, Chris Eckert, Matt Badger, Ken Badger. (Back
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Fire & Safety Services Renews Getsinger Partnership for the Burn Foundation For the last 19 years Fire & Safety Services, Ltd. (FSS), of Plainfield, N.J. (www.f-ss.com) has supported the mission of the Burn Foundation through the talents of renowned South Jersey artist, Joseph M. Getsinger. It's a partnership that has benefited thousands of burn patients and the regional Burn Centers. Fire & Safety Services, Ltd., the area's dealer and distributer of Pierce fire apparatus and related equipment, has agreed to continue their support for the 20th year. The Burn Foundation was founded in 1973 when the treatment of burn injuries was emerging as a specialized treatment. From the beginning, the non-profit fundraised in support of the new burn centers being established at local hospitals, as also for funds in support of certain burn patient services. For the last 39 years, artist Joe Getsinger has produced a unique piece of art specifically to be raffled off at the annual New Jersey State Firefighters’ Convention in Wildwood, New Jersey, each September. A giclee copy of the original, signed by the artist, is the grand prize of the raffle, with additional lithograph copies going to 25 other lucky winners. FSS’s first sponsorship began in the year 2000 when then President William Russell stepped to the plate in support of the project. Upon his retirement, his successor, David Russell has continued the pledge to support the Burn Foundation and Getsinger’s art. Joe supports the Burn Foundation, not only by way of the pieces he produces for Wildwood each year, but also through the sale of art on his website, JGetsingerarts.com, throughout the year, plus his tireless efforts on behalf of the non-profit. In 2018 he solicited support from South Jersey Federal Credit Union (SJFCU), which then underwrote the cost of last year’s collectible pin. Without knowing what the 2019 art will be, Ken Barnshaw, the President of SJFCU, has already pledged to underwrite this year's new offering. The 2019 art will be a re-creation of the first image created for the Burn Foundation titled, “Night Call.” The fire depicted happened in Deptford, New Jersey, with members of the Blackwood Terrace Fire Department, which is part of the Deptford Fire Department, responding. One of the firefighters in the painting was Ken Barnshaw, who years later would head up the SJFCU and become an important Burn Foundation sponsor. Rather than calling the new image, Night Call II Joe feels the title, “5:00 a.m. Call,” would be more appropriate considering the many calls that ring out in the wee hours of the morning when firefighters are really enjoying their sleep and the world is still in darkness. Delran Fire Department Assistant Chief, Joseph Cunningham, Sr., and members of the Delran Fire Department have already agreed to assist Joe with the photoshoot for this year’s creation. Each year, the painting is also accompanied by a collector card which depicts the art and provides an explanation by the artist of what is shown. These cards are provided by Chip Lillie of Choice Marketing, and are an important part of the fundraising efforts. Joe Getsinger and the Burn Foundation are very grateful for the support they have received from Dave Russell and FSS, and the entire South Jersey family of first responders. In addition they are thankful for the additional support they receive from Chip Lillie and Choice Marketing, and the many individuals who purchase the raffle tickets in advance of the convention in Wildwood. For information on Pierce apparatus and related equipment, contact Dave Russel at Fire & Safety Services, 200 Ryan Street, South Plainfield, NJ 07080, 888-723-1820, or at www.f-ss.com. Please visit their fine display in Wildwood during the convention. Visit Joe Getsinger’s new website at www.jgetsingerarts.com to view his art and that of others that are for sale. Take a moment to visit with him at the Burn Foundation tent in Wildwood. Donations to the Burn Foundation can be made online at www.burnfoundation.org or by sending a check to Burn Foundation, 8600 West Chester Pike - Suite 202, Upper Darby, PA 19082. When in Wildwood in September stop at our tent and say hello! We all look forward to seeing you in Wildwood on September 13 and 14, 2019, at the New Jersey State Firefighters’ Convention.
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20 Times More Home Oxygen Fire Fatalities in US Than England There are almost twenty times more home oxygen fatalities in the US compared with England, new research by medical gas specialist BPR Medical (UK; www.bprmedical.com) has revealed. BPR asked 212 local health service organizations (Clinical Commissioning Groups — CCGs — which decide what medical services are required in their local area), and most of the hospitals and communities in England how many incidents and fatalities involving home oxygen they had recorded for each year between 2013 and 2017. The data was then compared to existing US statistics. The study revealed that, among the three-quarters (73 percent) of English CCGs that responded, only one fatality was recorded in the five-year period. During this time, they recorded a total of 63 nonfatal incidents. When the results are extrapolated to cover the full home oxygen patient population in England and Wales (81,000), the results would be 89 incidents and 1.4 deaths — a significantly lower rate than any previous study in the UK or elsewhere. During the same five-year period in the US, the number of fatalities involving home oxygen fires was approximately 500, with an estimated 5,950 burn incidents recorded at emergency rooms. When adjusted to reflect the equivalent patient population in England, the number of deaths over five years is 27 — almost 20 times more. Since 2006 England and Wales (UK) have adopted a number of processes to improve home oxygen safety, including patient education and risk assessments. At the same time, firebreaks — also known as thermal fuses or fire stop valves — which stop the flow of oxygen in the event of a fire in the tube, became mandatory across the entire home oxygen patient population. In May 2018, the Veterans Health Administration (VA) published a Patient Safety Alert, requiring thermal fuses to be installed on every stationary and portable oxygen system used by its 85,000 home oxygen patients. The full White Paper report and infographic can be downloaded from www.firebreaks.info/uk.
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Fire News, April 2019, Page 27
Cologne House Fire Flashes Over
The volunteer fire companies of Cologne and Mays Landing and the Cardiff Volunteer Fire Company responded to Greenbriar Court at 0111 on January 12, 2019, for a report of a structure fire. Cologne Lieutenant Mark Sciore who lives nearby responded, established command and reported a dumpster on fire alongside a home located in a retirement village, a single-story wood frame of ordinary construction. Command requested an additional engine from Laureldale. Township of Hamilton Police evacuated the homes on the B and D sides. Mays Landing Captain DiBiaso and firefighters made entry with a line through the front door when the fire flashed over their heads. Firefighters were then removed from the house and Ladder 1815’s main was put into service, as well as another two-inch line for an exterior attack. Once all the visible fire was knocked down, firefighters re-entered and began knocking down hot spots and overhauling. - Fire News photos by Ken Badger
Page 28, Fire News, April 2019
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Propane Tank Starts Cardiff House Fire
Truck Fire Extends in Clifton
The volunteer fire companies of Cardiff and Bargaintown responded to Sycamore Avenue for a structure fire on January 18, 2019. Cardiff Chief Gilbert Zonge established command, and reported a working fire that brought a RIT from the City of Somers Point Volunteer Fire Department. A contractor working on the home, which was the site of two previous fires in 2018, was heating the home with a propane heater when a fire started. The contractor received burns to his hands and head and was treated by EHT EMS. The propane bottle that caused the fire was brought out by firefighters and placed in the street where a Blitz Fire was placed on it until the bottle ran out of propane. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
On February 2, 2019, both the Clifton and Passaic Fire Departments received multiple calls reporting a tractor trailer fire in the rear of LA Fitness on Ackerman Avenue. Clifton EMS-2 was in the area and was first to arrive to find a trailer on fire up against the building with flames higher than the building’s roof. Smoke was visible in two commercial establishments in the building and some moderate extension was found in the roof area. Passaic Engine 2 quickly knocked down the exterior fire, while Clifton Ladder 3 checked the roof and Clifton Engine 1 established a water supply on the A side and stretched a line knocking down an interior fire. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
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Fire News, April 2019, Page 29
Kearny 3-Alarmer Displaces 12 On February 4, 2019, Kearny firefighters were dispatched for a report of smoke in a building on Devon Street and possible fire in the walls. Crews arrived to find smoke showing from a three-story dwelling. Firefighters then found heavy fire in the basement already running the walls. Ceilings and walls were being pulled and fire kept popping up eventually getting into the cockloft of the home. At times, fire was seen blowing out windows on the first and third floors before going through the roof. Evacuation orders were sounded and master streams put into operation as firefighters switched to a defensive attack. The fire reached three alarms and left a dozen people homeless. Mutual aid came from Belleville, North Arlington, Harrison and Jersey City while North Hudson Regional and Bayonne provided station coverage. - Fire News photos by PuckStopperPhotography.com
Page 30, Fire News, April 2019
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NY Fire Marshal K-9 Team Responds to Marcal Fire
Nassau County (Long Island, NY) Executive Laura Curran recognized Nassau County Fire Marshal Joseph Battaglia and his K-9 team partner, Pilot, for their deployment as part of the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (BATFE) National Response Team to site of the fire disaster in Elmwood Park in February 2019. - Fire News photos provided
NEW YORK STATE ASSOCIATION OF FIRE CHIEFS ANNOUNCES ANNUAL CONFERENCE KEYNOTE SPEAKER Syracuse University Football Coach Dino Babers will Deliver Keynote Address at Annual Fire Chiefs Conference Hosted by the Salt City
(Albany, N.Y.) - The New York State Association of Fire Chiefs is pleased to announce the 113th Annual Conference & FIRE 2019 Expo Keynote Address, “My Story and Philosophy,” as delivered by Syracuse University Football Coach Dino Babers. The program, open to all attendees, will be held on Thursday, June 13, 2019, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. in the Mulroy Civic Center at Oncenter - Crouse Hinds Theater, Syracuse, NY. The event will be returning to the Salt City for the first time in 14 years. Coach Babers led the Orange through a great season, restoring the team’s standing as a forceful NCAA presence, with the team ranking 15th by the end of the season and defeating West Virginia in the Camping World Bowl. The lessons he has learned and his mastery of the football field apply to the challenges and opportunities that await the fire chief. As NYSAFC adopts Syracuse as the “home” of its Annual Conference and Fire Expo for at least the next three years, the association is excited that an individual whose persona resonates nationally, as well as with the Syracuse community, will help welcome attendees
and relay his own story of the transformation of another Syracuse tradition--SU football. Coach Babers will be speaking about his background in coaching — where he came from and his inspiration on the field. He’ll also talk about the culture of his program, his coaching “philosophy,” and lessons learned that apply to leaders in all fields, including the fire service. “We couldn’t be more proud to announce Coach Babers as our keynote speaker,” said Chief Julius J. Leone Jr., President of NYSAFC. “We know how much the Orange means to the community of Syracuse, and we wanted to show our respect to the region for hosting us this year by including someone who makes the city proud. We can all take in something from his model for success and ability to guide others.” The annual conference will take place at the Oncenter from June 12 through 15, 2019. Attendee information can be found here. The keynote address is sponsored this year by VFIS.
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Fire News, April 2019, Page 31
Firehouse Kitchen
Firehouse Kitchen Goes Live With Ray Cooney, Host of Firehouse Kitchen Oh yes! Oh yes! It's time for Firehouse Kitchen Live! Beginning April 2019, every Tuesday at 0930, Firehouse Kitchen will air live from the Bayport Fire Department. We will be cooking with firefighters from all over the country. Every week, two firefighters will demonstrate their amazing cooking skills, while re-telling some heroic tales of firefighter life. Did I mention while they are cooking and talking, we will be streaming LIVE on YouTube and Facebook? Be sure to tune-in! Preparing to start this adventure required a couple of test shoots. The first one I did involved me cooking alone. I felt like a fish out of water! If you know anything about my show, then you know the firefighters that are on are the real chefs and I am the comic relief always asking about the recipe and chiming in about firefighter life. So what recipe did I decide to make? The ultimate Fire House Omelette. I know, so difficult! With the camera rolling and me cooking, it showed that I can’t do two things at one time! I was bumbling words, losing train of thought ... and I burned my eggs! Thank goodness it was only a test! I am definitely more comfortable being the chef’s helper than being the chef. So, I will stick to what works!
So, get ready America. Tune in Tuesday mornings at 0930 for the greatest Live Firefighter cooking show of all time! To find out more about firehouse kitchen go to firehousekitchenshow.com. If you would like to be a cook on Firehouse Kitchen or on Firehouse Kitchen Live, shoot me an e-mail at firehousekitchentv@gmail.com.
The Ultimate Firehouse Omelette 3 Eggs 1/4 cup of milk Tomato Onion Green Peppers 3 slices of American cheese 3 slices of boars head ham Salt Pepper Directions: Dice up tomato, onion, and green peppers. Crack the three eggs into a bowl, add milk and vegetables then whip together until mixed. Dice up the ham, brown it on a hot pan, then add the egg mixture. Flip when ready. Then add the cheese, salt and pepper on top. Fold eggs in half and plate.
Page 32, Fire News, April 2019
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Up Close & Personal
Egg Harbor Township Chief Rob Winkler and Galloway Township Chief Rick Smith before the January 16, 2019, memorial service for Atlantic County firefighters who answered their final alarm. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
A captain from Saddle Brook Engine Company 2 looks for instructions during the Marcal Paper Company fire. - Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com
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Fire News, April 2019, Page 33
Up Close & Personal Firefighters Ed Sidley and Joe Accurso, Captain Brandon Fetzer, and Firefighters Kevin Hanley and Devon Clancy of Sea Girt Fire Department stand by their rescue truck at a recent house fire in Manasquan. - Fire News photo by Mike Nowacki
The Kearny Chief of Department discusses tactics during a third-alarm dwelling fire on Devon Street. - Fire News photo by PuckStopper Photography.com City of Pleasantville Tim Housand riding the Santa Train on December 9, 2018. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Page 34, Fire News, April 2019
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10th Annual Mutual Aid Chili Cook-Off
The Mutual Aid Auxiliary is comprised of six auxiliaries - Apshawa, Bloomingdale, Butler, Kinnelon, Pompton Lakes and Riverdale. Each year they host an annual Chili Cook Off with proceeds benefitting a fire-related organization. This year the proceeds went to
the New Jersey Firemen’s Home. The 2019 event ended as a tie between Apshawa and Kinnelon. Over the past 10 events, the Mutual Aid Auxiliary has donated over $30,000 to various organizations. - Fire News photo by Dawn Hudson
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Fire News, April 2019, Page 35