Fire News New Jersey 5-2026

In this issue...

Dog Saved, 1 FF Injured at Structure Fire

Departments were dispatched for a report of a structure fire in Harbor Pines..

See story on page 4

3-Alarm Apartment

Building

Fire Displaces 24,

A fire tore through an apartment building in Paterson, displacing 24 residents and injuring a firefighter.

See story on page 8

Legislative Committee Report

The current 2026-2027 legislative session was very active.

See story on page 12

Tribute to 1st Responders of 9/11

Artists are creating a tribute to the 343 first responders who sacrificed their lives on 9/11.

See story on page 25

MVA Rollover on Black Horse Pike

Cardiff and Bargaintown respond to a rollover into the median.

See story on page 26

Tribute

Frank John Denan, Somers Point

See story on page 30

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Long Island, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, Kentucky, Maryland, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, S. Carolina, Virginia, Washington DC, West Virginia, and Wildwood, NJ

Proud Member Of:

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Industry News

page 22

pages 28 & 30

Raging House Fire on Laguna Drive, Dog Saved by Police, 1 FF Injured

Scullville and Bargaintown fire departments were dispatched to Laguna Drive in the Harbor Pines neighborhood for a report of a structure fire. EHT police arrived first and confirmed the structure fire. A neighbor said a dog was inside; police were able to remove the dog. Bargaintown Chief Eugene Sharpe arrived and reported a heavy fire condition. Scullville Chief Vern Cruse arrived, established command, and requested a second alarm, bringing the remaining township fire companies to the scene along with RIT from the Cities of Northfield and Somers Point. Numerous handlines were used to fight the fire taking an hour to bring under control. One firefighter

Mutual Aid Called in Estell Manor House Fire

The City of Estell Manor Fire Department was dispatched to Cumberland Avenue for a report of a heater/dwelling fire. Estell Manor Chief Nick Bleyhl arrived, established command, reported smoke and fire showing from the C/D corner of a single-story wood-frame dwelling. Command was notified by the homeowner that all occupants were out and accounted for, and believed the fire started in the basement at the oil-fired furnace. At this time, the fire was spreading to the attic and void spaces. Richland and Dorothy’s departments brought in water tenders and crews stretched handlines. Newtonville, Collins, Quint and Forest Grove all responded for manpower, water tenders, aerial. The cause of the fire was under investigation by the NJ Division of Fire Safety.

– Fire News photo by Ken Badger

was injured when a ceiling collapsed on him and he was treated and transported by EHT EMS. The cause of the fire was being investigated by the EHTFD Fire Investigators.

Dryer Fire Quickly Handled

March 10, 2026, Toms River fire companies responded to the 700 block of Northstream Drive for a reported dryer fire. Units arrived to moderate smoke showing from the home and a working fire was transmitted. Stations 25, 26, 28, 29 and 53 responded. Crews quickly knocked down the fire and kept it to the room of origin. Units operated on scene for nearly two hours.

– Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti

Large 2-Family Home Fire in Ridgefield Park

County Communications alerted the Ridgefield Park Fire Department to respond to Euclid Avenue for a house fire. On arrival, companies encountered a heavy smoke condition from a two-family home. As lines were being stretched and searches under way fire started venting from the second floor windows and a second alarm was transmitted. Crews stretched lines to the second floor and attic, but conditions deteriorated and a third alarm was requested. Crews were evacuated from the building. After about 10 minutes of an exterior attack, the main body of fire was knocked down. No injuries were reported and the fire was under investigation. – Fire News photos by Peter Danzo

Hillside Dept. Rescues Squirrel

–

2 Houses Damaged by Fire in Livingston

4 Alarm House Fire in Westmont

On March 3, 2026, the Westmont Fire Company, along with Collingswood and Haddonfield, were dispatched to Virginia Avenue for the report of a dwelling fire. Westmont Fire Chief Dan Devitt arrived and reported a working fire in a three-story, singlefamily, wood frame dwelling. Additional resources were called from Pennsauken. Collingswood’s crew prepared to make the push through the front door, as fire vented out of the first floor Alpha and Bravo sides. Westmont and Haddonfield crews placed ground ladders to assist with ventilation and egress. Searches proved all clear. Additional handlines were stretched to reinforce the initial attack line. The fire was placed under control in about 20 minutes. – Fire News photo by FF Ryan Finnegan, submitted by Frank Saia

A fire tore through an apartment building in Paterson, displacing 24 residents and injuring a firefighter. Crews worked throughout the night to get the fire under control. The building was a total loss.

- Fire News photos by Ron Bombaro

Wildwood Fire Chief Awarded

Arthur J. Glatfelter

Distinguished Service Award

Troy Markel, the Board Chair for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, praised Chief Speigel,who has spent decades answering the call to not only the service to his community, but in moments when leadership, compassion and vision were needed the most. Among his distinguished career in the fire service, Chief Speigel has served as Construction and Fire Official for the City of North Wildwood, Executive Committeeman with the New Jersey State Firemen’s Association and a dedicated member of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. Chief Speigel was also instrumental in the creation of Fire Hero Beach Bash, an event that raised $110,000 in just three years to support the families of fallen firefighters. The Chief graciously accepted the Arthur J. Glatfelter Distinguished Service Award. He commented, “Obviously, I’m very honored to receive this and I certainly didn’t expect it. I’m humbled.” – Submitted by Joseph Hankins, New Jersey State Firemen’s Association

Howell Celebrates 99 Years at Installation Banquet

Howell Township Fire Company #1 of Adelphia, NJ (Monmouth County) held its annual banquet on March 21, 2026 to celebrate the organization’s 99 years of dedicated service to the community, thank its members and spouses, and recognize achievements of members. The 2026 officers were sworn-in with Stephen Smith serving as fire chief, Christopher Pujat serving as company president, and Sharon Amalfa serving as auxiliary president. During the banquet, a new rank, Engineer, was announced for members of the fire company who have served for at least 40 years and have never served as chief officers but have had a significant impact on the success of organization by protecting its rich history; mentoring new members; serving as stewards of the fire company’s traditions, equipment and apparatus; and for overall outstanding service to the organization and community.

Frank Bostjancic (left) and George Gravatt Sr. each who have each served more than 50 years, were surprised by this honor and were presented with their gold Engineer badges at the banquet. Please mark October 2, 2027 on your calendar for the 100th anniversary celebration of Howell Township Fire Company #1 at the Adelphia Fire Station featuring the entertainment of the Amish Outlaws. The 100th Anniversary Gala is planned for March 20, 2027 at Eagle Oaks with musical guests The Cliffs. Please keep an eye on the Adelphia Fire Facebook page for details. – Submitted by Kelly Gabliks

Camden Vacant House Gutted by Fire

Camden Fire Dept. was dispatched to 770 Walnut Street for a reported fire. Upon arrival crews laid hand lines but the dwelling was engulfed in flames. Crews stayed until all interior and external fires were out.

Monmouth County Fire Marshal Fred Migliaccio Retirement

More than 250 public safety leaders, elected officials, friends, and family joined the celebration at Falco’s in Ocean Township on Friday evening March 20, 2026, to honor and recognize outgoing Monmouth County Fire Marshal Fred Migliaccio on a well-earned retirement. Fred’s fire service career spans 51 years beginning with the West Long Branch Fire Department. He was also a member of Special Services Unit of the Long Branch Fire Department. For the past six years he has served as County Fire Marshal supporting the 132 fire departments and fire companies in Monmouth County who protect more than 640,000 residents.

– Submitted by Kelly Gabliks

3-Alarmer in Mixed-Use Building in Passaic

The Passaic Fire Department responded to Quincy Street for reports of a building fire. Upon arrival, crews reported smoke from a three-story mixed-use building on the corner of Hope Street. After further investigation, a working fire was found in the walls on the second and third floors and a second alarm was requested. As crews conducted searches and started opening up, fire was found to be entering the cockloft and a third alarm was transmitted bringing mutual aid to the scene and for coverage. Crews opened up walls and ceilings and the fire vented out the Delta side of the roof line. After a very aggressive offensive attack the main body of fire was knocked down and the fire was brought under control in about 90 minutes with no reported injuries.

- Fire News photo by Peter Danzo

March 5, 2026

Legislative Committee Report

The current 2026-2027 legislative session is very active. The Officers have been speaking with legislators about the Cancer Screening bill, and the Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Protection Act programs that have been signed into laws of which both are currently only covering career personnel, we are working feverishly to get volunteers added.

Current bills that we are tracking are 131 Fire and Emergency Services, 46 Firemen’s Home and 43 Pension for a total of 220. Of these the following are two that have been moved out of committee:

S1343: Permits students to be eligible for high school graduation credits in health, safety and physical education for completing county fire academy course under certain circumstances.

S1381: Requires DOLWD to identify and recruit unemployed individuals for employment in healthcare facilities, home care services, and hospice services; makes appropriation. This bill would apply to the firemen’s home among others.

S1583: Provides access to periodic cancer screening examinations for volunteer firefighters through SHBP physicians and other providers.

As legislative representatives for your Counties I am asking that you reach out to your local Senators to show our support on bill S1583. Currently the sponsors are Amato (R9) • Bucco (R25) and co-sponsors Singleton (D7) • Diegnan (D18) • Schepisi (R39) • Stack (D33).

If you should have any questions in relationship to any activity in the Senate or Assembly, please feel free to contact me.

Respectively submitted, Richard K. Dreby Chairman Legislative Committee 1st Assistant Secretary

Boat Fully Involved at Seaview Harbor Marina

Scullville and Bargaintown fire departments, along with City of Longport firefighters, responded to Longport Boulevard at the Seaview Harbor Marina on March 15, 2026, for the report of a fire. Longport’s Deputy Chief arrived, and found a boat in the water fully involved. The DC requested one engine from the City of Margate Fire Department to the scene. Upon the arrival of the Longport apparatus, Ladder 34 secured a hydrant, lines were stretched along the dock and began knocking down the fire and containing the fire to the vessel of origin. The fire is under investigation by the EHTFD Fire Official and the New Jersey State Police. – Fire News photo by Ken Badger

Suspect Stabs 2 People Then Sets House on Fire

Paterson Fire Department and mutual aid Fire operated at a working fire on Berkshire Avenue. The fire was intentionally set and the suspect barricaded himself in the basement after stabbing two individuals. The official PFD statement follows: “Fire and Criminal Incident at approximately 12:01 AM, the Paterson Fire Department, along with mutual aid partners and Paterson EMS, responded to 192 Berkshire Avenue for a fire in a 1.5-story wood-frame home. The fire was located in the basement. Preliminary information indicates the fire may have been intentionally set by an emotionally disturbed individual barricaded inside the residence. It is believed the suspect also stabbed two individuals prior to setting the fire. Both victims sustained non-lifethreatening injuries The suspect is now in the custody of the Paterson Police Department. The cause and circumstances surrounding the fire remain under investigation. Mutual aid departments assisted in the suppression efforts.” – Fire News photo by Ron Bombaro

Thank You for Making the 2026 NJEPA Conference a Success

The New Jersey Emergency Preparedness Association (NJEPA) would like to extend our sincere appreciation to all who attended and supported the 2026 NJEPA Conference, held April 20–24 at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City.

Each year, this conference brings together emergency management professionals, first responders, public health partners, and private sector stakeholders from across New Jersey and beyond—and this year was no exception. Your participation helped create a dynamic and collaborative environment focused on strengthening preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation efforts statewide.

Throughout the week, attendees had the opportunity to engage in a wide range of training sessions, breakout discussions, and special events designed to enhance professional development and foster meaningful connections. From hands-on trainings to informative panel discussions and networking opportunities, the conference once again demonstrated the strength and dedication of New Jersey’s emergency management community.

We also wish to extend our gratitude to our presenters, sponsors, exhibitors and volunteers, whose contributions were instrumental in making this event possible. Your expertise, time, and commitment continue to elevate the NJEPA Conference experience

year after year.

Most importantly, thank you to our attendees. Your continued support and engagement are what drive the success of this conference and help advance our shared mission of building safer, more resilient communities.

We look forward to seeing you next year at the 2027 NJEPA Conference, April 12–16, 2027.

Salvage Yard Fire Quickly Stopped

Bill Webb Recognized at CFSI

The Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI) held its 36th Annual National Fire and Emergency Services Symposium and Dinner in Washington D.C. on March 18-19, 2026, Bill Webb was presented with the Mason Lankford Fire Service Leadership Award. This award, sponsored by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI), and Motorola, recognizes exemplary leaders who improve the delivery of services to the community. Bill Webb, Vice Chair of the Board of Directors at the NFFF and former Executive Director of CFSI, has spent his career advocating for and creating change in the fire and emergency services community.

– Submitted by Kelly Gabliks; photo by National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

Family of 5 Displaced by Fire

The Paramus Fire Department companies 4, 2 and Rescue were dispatched to a reported house fire on Spring Valley Avenue. On arrival, the entire rear of the 2-1/2 story private dwelling was well involved and the fire was rapidly extending though the home. A second alarm was requested by Chief Perez, which brought remaining companies 1 and 3 as well as mutual aid from several surrounding towns. The fire, which took about an hour to bring under control, completely destroyed the home, leaving a family of five displaced. No injuries were reported and the cause was believed to have been caused by fireworks.

2 Homes Destroyed by Fire, 24 Displaced

Car Fire at Atlantic County Jail

Parking Lot

Mays Landing, Laureldale and Cologne fire departments were dispatched on March 9, 2026, to the Atlantic County Jail on Atlantic Avenue, for the report of a vehicle fire in Lot P. Laureldale Chief found the fire in the vehicle’s engine compartment. It was quickly brought under control with one line. The cause of the fire was under investigation.

– Fire News photo by Ken Badger

Dump Truck Accident With Hydraulic Spill in Arlington

The North Arlington Fire Department was called to Schuyler Avenue for an MVA involving a dump truck. Command arrived and found the dump truck leaking a large amount of hydraulic fluid. Crews arrived and applied drying agent.

Fire

Taxi Ends Up On Side, Driver Trapped

The Paterson Fire Department operated at an overturned taxi, on its side with the driver trapped on Getty Avenue and Hospital Plaza.

– Fire News photo by Ron Bombaro

New Fire Tower for NJ Forest Fire Service

On March 25, 2026, elected officials joined members of the New Jersey Forest Fire Service to dedicate the first new forest fire lookout tower built in the Garden State in almost 80 years. Veterans Fire Tower in Jackson Township is 133-feet tall and replaces the former Lakewood Fire Tower. Veterans Fire Tower joins 20 other towers located around the state that are staffed by trained observers to provide early detection of wildfires. Founded in 1906, the NJFFS is the largest firefighting agency in the state with 85 full-time career firefighters and approximately 2,000 trained part-time on-call wildland firefighters throughout the state. In addition to the fire lookout towers, NJFFS uses a variety of wildland fire engines, tractors and plows, aircraft, and specialized vehicles to accomplish its mission. – Submitted by Kelly Gabliks

MOTLEY CREWS OF THE MONTH

Burn Foundation Along With Fire & Safety Services Sponsors Tribute to 1st Responders of 9/11

This year the Burn Foundation artist Joseph Getsinger and 3-D artist Jarryd Ley are creating an image as a tribute to the 343 first responders who sacrificed their lives 25 years ago on September 11, 2001. Fire and Safety Services President David Russell will again be the proud sponsor of the Burn Foundation.

David has consistently supported the Burn Foundation and Joe for over 25 years, including the printing costs of each year’s raffle tickets for the annual NJ State Firefighters Convention in Wildwood. In 2024 David also sponsored the special edition collector pins that contain the fundraising image. These have become very popular and are very much in demand.

This year we are also celebrating the third anniversary of artist Jarryd Ley of West Deptford, who has joined forces with Getsinger to create a unique 3-D fundraising image of Getsinger’s artwork for this convention. The title for this year’s image will be:,“9/11 – Because They Climbed.”

In early January, Getsinger envisioned an image to honor those first responders who sacrificed their lives due to the terrorist attack on the World Trade Center in New York City. This year marks the 25th anniversary of that tragic event. Joe contacted Fire Chief Stephen Christinzio and Deputy Chief Anton Horwitz of Woodbury Heights Fire Department who were proud to be a part of Getsinger’s creation, especially since it’s a tribute to the 343 first responders who sacrificed their lives. A few photo shoots were scheduled and interrupted by the snowstorms in February, but with the aid of 3-D artist Jarryd Ley, it finally was successful.

We would like to thank the firefighters who participated in the photo shoots: Anton Horwitz – Deputy Chief, Steve Christinzio –Chief, Firefighters: Abi Sherm, Alex Horwitz, Austin Crew, Chase Nana, Chuckie Crompton, Emma Horwitz, Charles Cannon, and Assistant Chief David Misilewich.

A special note of interest at Woodbury Heights Fire Department: If you visit there, ask for a tour of their front entrance and stairway. Assistant Chief David Misilewich has stairway walls and second floor decorated with framed artwork of Joe Getsinger’s firefighter prints from throughout the years. There are also a couple of canvas prints, and an original acrylic painting titled “Fire and Ice” displayed there.

You can also visit the Gloucester County Fire Academy at 200 County House Road in Clarksboro to see other Getsinger’s art prints. He recently donated his original paintings of “Fire Academy I” and “Fire Academy 2” to their new addition, which expanded their training ability and capacity.

The two artists, Getsinger and Ley, will develop the final image to be used for the print and a 3D model that will be displayed at the New Jersey Firemen’s Convention in Wildwood, N.J. on September 11 and 12, 2026. It will be utilized as part of the fundraiser for the

Burn Foundation table on stage in the fire equipment expo tent area. The number one framed Giclee’ canvas print of “9/11 – Because They Climbed” will be the top prize at the raffle along with 25 limited edition prints signed by both Joe Getsinger and Jarryd Ley. Due to health issues, this will be the last year Getsinger will be creating an image for the Burn Foundation after 46 years of dedicated service to this worthy cause.

The Burn Foundation is located at 8600 West Chester Pike, Suite 202, Upper Darby, Pa. 19082. Its mission supports the burn patient and burn care communities in the tristate area. You can donate online at: www.burnfoundation.org or call 215-545-3816.

Accident Results in Rollover in Median

Cardiff and Bargaintown fire departments were dispatched on March 10, 2026, along with EMS and police, for a report of an MVA on Black Horse Pike at Ridge Avenue, with one vehicle coming to rest on its side in the median. The driver self-extricated and was taken to a waiting BLS unit, from which occupants were examined and transported. The cause of the crash was under investigation by EHT Police. – Fire News photo by Ken Badger

Basement Fire Extends in Multi-Use Building

Seaside Heights St. Patrick’s Day Parade

On March 7, 2026, barrier island and local fire companies came together to participate in the annual tradition of the Seaside Heights Saint Patrick’s Day Parade along the Boulevard.

– Fire News photos

KAREN EMORY APPOINTED PRESIDENT OF FEMSA

The Fire and Emergency Manufacturers and Services Association (FEMSA) is pleased to announce that Karen Emory has officially assumed the role of President of the association. Emory, who has been an active and highly engaged member of the FEMSA Board of Directors since 2018, brings extensive experience, proven leadership, and a deep commitment to advancing the fire and emergency services industry.

Throughout her tenure on the Board, Emory has served in several key leadership capacities, including Vice President and Secretary/Treasurer. She has also been a longtime and dedicated member of the FEMSA Nominating Committee, contributing significantly to board development and organizational governance.

Emory currently serves as Vice President of Hi‑Tech Fire & Safety, Inc., a leading provider of high‑quality fire, EMS, and rescue equipment. The company is recognized for delivering top-tier solutions such as structural firefighting gear, extrication tools, and advanced air purification systems—resources vital to supporting first responders in their critical missions.

“I am honored to step into the role of President and continue working alongside our exceptional members and partners,” Emory said. “FEMSA plays a vital role in elevating the emergency services community, and I look forward to strengthening our collective impact in the years ahead.”

FEMSA congratulates Karen Emory on her new leadership role and looks forward to the expertise, energy, and vision she will bring as President.

F&SS ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT OF LONGTIME SALES REPRESENTATIVE BILL RING AND TERRITORY TRANSITION PLAN

South Plainfield, NJ – March 19, 2026 – After more than 40 years of dedicated service supporting fire departments and helping meet their fire apparatus needs, F&SS Sales Representative Bill Ring has announced his plans to retire.

F&SS extends its sincere appreciation to Bill for his unwavering commitment to customers and the strong, lasting relationships he has built throughout his distinguished career. His contributions have played a vital role in the company’s success and in supporting fire service communities across the region.

To ensure a seamless transition and maintain the high level of service customers have come to expect, F&SS has implemented the following territory updates:

• Bergen County & Essex County will transition to Gregg Cariddi, an F&SS Sales Representative with more than 25 years of experience selling fire apparatus for the company. Gregg also brings over 25 years of experience as a career firefighter and officer, along with 42 years of service as a volunteer firefighter, officer, and Chief.

• Hudson County will transition to John O’Keefe, an F&SS Sales

Representative with over 23 years of experience with the company. John also has more than 32 years of experience as a career firefighter and officer.

• Sussex County will transition to Tyler Wargo, an F&SS Sales Representative since 2025. Tyler brings over 23 years in the fire service, including 17 years as an officer and Chief, as well as five years in municipal finance. He currently serves as an Assistant Treasurer and Fire & EMS Director.

• Union County will now be supported by Matt Steitz, who has served as a Fire & Safety Sales Representative since 2022. Matt has more than 13 years of experience as a career firefighter and over 21 years of combined service as a volunteer firefighter and EMS provider.

F&SS remains committed to delivering exceptional service and support to its customers throughout this transition and beyond. For questions or additional information, please contact F&SS at sales@fss.com

Stay tuned on our website & social media pages for the confirmed date and more information regarding registration.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of 9/11, and as always, we climb to honor the fallen while supporting the mission of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. Proceeds help fund vital programs that provide assistance to the families of the 343, our local fallen firefighters, and the FDNY Counseling Service Unit.

ALL raised funds will go to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, to learn more about their mission, visit firehero.org.

For any questions or to inquire about volunteering and sponsorships, please email nj911climb@f-ss.com.

Frank John Denan, Somers Point

Frank John Denan, 73, passed away in the comfort of his home with his daughters by his side on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.

A lifelong resident of Somers Point, he was born on May 14, 1952 to the late Frank and Marie Denan. After graduating high school, he served in the National Guard from 1971 until 1978. A longtime public servant, Frank dedicated his life to the city that he loved for over 44 years, joining the Somers Point Volunteer Fire Company 2 at the age of 18, and then honorably serving in the capacity of Chief/Deputy Chief starting in 1991 and lasting until his retirement in 2015. He was also trusted for his expertise and employed as city fire inspector and later, code enforcement officer, property maintenance inspector and housing inspector. The majority of his time was spent protecting and serving the people of Somers Point, a responsibility he took seriously and loved with all his heart.

Frank followed in his father’s footsteps and became a painter, working as plant supervisor at Shore Memorial Hospital for over 25 years before retiring to spend time with his grandsons. In his free time, you could find him at the

gym, working in his shed, enjoying an apple martini at the Anchorage on Friday nights with his wife, or cruising to Bermuda.

He had a dry wit and never lost his sense of humor. He loved to be the boss, and relished in telling people what they were doing wrong. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, son and brother, and he made sure everyone he loved was provided for. He loved a good meal, a cold beer, and a great dessert. We will miss him every day, but take comfort in knowing he is now reunited with our mom.

Frank was predeceased by his beautiful wife of 42 years, Sherry; his sister, Carol Muller; his brother, Joey; and his infant son. He is survived by his beloved daughters, Danielle Barry and her husband, John, and Nicole Denan (his devoted caretaker for the last year); the lights of his life, his grandsons, Bryce and Hunter “Bun” Barry; his siblings, Marie and Michael (Sharon) Denan, and Karen Salvatore (Nick); his brother-in-law, David Kallen; his nieces, nephews, and cousins; and his bonus caretaker, Debi. He is also survived by his oldest child, Jennifer Petinga and her four children.

– Submitted by Dennis C. Sharpe

FIRSTNET HELPS HYANNIS FD EXTINGUISH COMMUNICATION DELAYS SWELLING SUMMER POPULATION POSES UNIQUE CHALLENGES

The Hyannis Fire Department serves 18,000 year-round residents, but the population soars to 100,000 in the summer. This presents a unique challenge.

The department responds to about 8,000 incidents in Barnstable, Cape Cod, Lewis Bay, and Hyannis Harbor. Their coverage area includes the largest hospital on the Cape, an airport, a busy downtown, and a harbor. Seventy firefighters provide fire response, ALS, and technical rescues using fireboats and a dive team.

The Hyannis Fire Department needed to evolve to meet the needs of its coastal community. That’s why they were early adopters of FirstNet®, Built with AT&T.

Reliable Communication and Mission Critical Tools

Dedicated to Safety

Created to address communication challenges of 9/11, FirstNet®, Built with AT&T is the nationwide, high-speed wireless network designed to provide first responders with secure, reliable communications. During an emergency, commercial networks can get congested, which slows communication time.

First responders get always-on priority and pre-emption for calls, texts and data. FirstNet connects Hyannis firefighters across all their devices including cell phones, modems, routers, and vehicle-mounted equipment. It’s a single system that allows users to share information across all of their systems seamlessly.

FirstNet allows them to scale their network during an emergency without suffering from the lag time that other devices may suffer from. They also use FirstNet on their fireboats.

Hazardous situations

FirstNet was vital when Hyannis firefighters had to deal with hazardous materials. They were able to stream video from inside the building across all FirstNet devices on the scene so they could see what was happening in real time before entering a building.

The problems they deal with now are often a bit more complicated, and they’re always finding new challenges. Lithium-ion batteries, for example, which power electric vehicles, present unique fire hazards.

Compact Deployables

FirstNet has a cache of 180-plus compact deployable assets to boost FirstNet coverage and help ensure dedicated connectivity. When the department needed temporary, specialized cellular coverage and capacity, FirstNet responded quickly with compact deployable assets such as cells on light trucks (COLTs) and cells on wheels (COWs).

Unmatched Support

FirstNet technology is robust, and so is its customer service. “The service is always excellent and they are always responsive. They’re always able to get the answers we need and help us solve any problem,” Hyannis Fire Department Chief Peter Burke said. “Based on our continued success with FirstNet, we recommend it to all public safety agencies and users. We know that our FirstNet devices are always going to work without suffering from the lag time that other devices may suffer from.”