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Fire News New Jersey 8-2026

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Training

Medevac Called for Pleasantville Injured Teen

The Pleasantville FD was requested to establish an LZ for a juvenile who suffered a traumatic injury.

Camden Structure Fire

Bergen County Firemen’s Home Assoc. Barbecue In

See story on page 4

Firefighters arrived at the location to find heavy fire and a fully involved structure.

See story on page 9

All Hands for an Ocean Rescue in Seaside

Responders were requested to Seaside Park for a swimmer in distress.

See story on page 12

The event was held on the perfect day for our June barbecue.

See story on page 14

Germania Celebrates 100th Anniversary

The Germania Volunteer Fire Company celebrated 100 years of dedicated service on June 6, 2026.

See story on page 22

Fiery 3-Car Accident in Paterson

The Paterson Fire Department operated at a three-car MVA, with two cars on fire.

See story on page 25

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Medevac Called for Pleasantville Injured Teen

On June 18, 2026, the Pleasantville Fire Department was requested to establish an LZ for a juvenile who suffered a traumatic injury. Landing zone operations were conducted on the Pleasantville High School football field. Assisting at the scene were Tricare EMS, Pleasantville PD, Atlanticare Paramedics, and school officials.

- Fire News photos by Eric ‘Doc’ Moran

Egg Harbor

Annual Dare Day

Egg Harbor Township Emergency Services held their Annual Dare Day (or Hero Day) at the Joy Miller School on June 12, 2026. All of the emergency services participated to show the youth there are alternatives to drugs and alcohol.

- Fire News photos by Dennis C. Sharpe

Egg Harbor Handles LZ For Amputation Patient

Cardiff and Bargaintown fire departments along with EHT Police responded to assist EHT EMS with landing a SouthStar Medevac at the Shop Rite on English Creek Avenue on June 26, 2026, for a fly-out of an amputation patient. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe

Cover Story

FFs Save Dog at Bayville House Fire

On June 7, 2026, the Bayville Fire Company responded to a house fire on Route 9. Prior to arrival, two off-duty firefighters arrived and were able to make entry to save a dog inside. Crews arrived to fire showing from three sides and a box alarm was transmitted. Companies from Manitou Park, Pinewald Pioneer, and Pine Beach responded to the scene. Firefighters attempted an offensive attack but transitioned to defensive and remained on scene throughout the evening bringing the fire under control.

- Fire News photos by

Junior Training at the Monmouth County Fire Academy

Junior firefighters from various fire companies were on the drill grounds of the Monmouth County Fire Academy in Howell Township on the evening of May 27, 2026. They were participating in the Academy’s junior firefighter training program that met twice a month over the past four months. Topics included; PPE, SCBA, fire behavior, hose and hydrant operations, handline operations, forcible entry, and PIAT (Putting It All Together) as the final session. This is an innovative program and a great recruitment tool for the more than 100 fire agencies in Monmouth County to find their firefighters of the future.

- Fire News photo by Kelly Gabliks

Mark Rosetti

Paterson EMS Tends to Stabbing Victim

Paterson EMS rendered care to stabbing victim on Marshall Street on June 5, 2026. - Fire News photos by Ron Bombaro

Camden Structure Fire

On June 20, 2026, Camden Battalion 1 arrived at a Chestnut Street location to heavy fire and a fully involved structure. An allhands was struck at 1740 hours. – Fire News photo by Ed Hutchinson

Seaside Heights New Rescue Vehicle

The Seaside Heights Fire Department placed a 2006 Am General into service as Water Rescue 4496. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti

All Hands for an Ocean Rescue in Seaside

Egg Harbor Home Gutted by Fire

The Bargaintown and Scullville departments from Egg Harbor were dispatched to Millstone Court on June 4, 2026, for a structure fire. Bargaintown Chief Eugene Sharpe requested mutual aid from Linwood, Somers Point and Mays Landing, followed by a request for a second alarm. The fire took several hours to bring under control and was under investigation by the EHTFD Fire Official. Also responding were EHT Police and EMS, South Jersey Gas, Atlantic City Electric, and the Scullville Ladies Auxiliary.

- Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe

On June 5, 2026, Seaside Park and Seaside Heights fire departments were requested to the O Street beach in Seaside Park for a swimmer in distress. Units found a person on a sandbar who was quickly rescued. As the rescue was taking place the ocean rescue teams learned a second swimmer was missing. Additional water rescue teams from Ocean Beach and Lavallette were requested to the scene along with US Coast Guard boats and aviation. The search continued through the entire weekend and after 48 hours the person had not been located.

- Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti

Looking Back Laureldale - 2014

In the early morning of June 2014, Laureldale Fire Rescue responded to an MVA with entrapment. Two dump trucks collided leaving one driver entrapped. Crews spent approximately 30 minutes to extricate the driver from the dump truck on its side.

- Fire News photo by Eric ‘Doc’ Moran

Bergen County Firemen’s Home Association Barbecue

Up Close & Personal

Joe Bertino and daughter at the Woodstown Muster on June 7, 2026.

- Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe

The Bergen County Firemen’s Home Association Barbecue and Entertainment was held June 13, 2026, which turned out to be the perfect day for our June barbecue.

With the grill fired up and meat sizzling, everyone anticipated a wonderful lunch ahead. With the assistance of Chef Prince of the NJ Firemen’s Home and NJ State Fire Association President Bob Ordway kicked off the luncheon. During lunch singer Kelly Carpenter performed popular contemporary songs.

If you would like to make a donation to our organization, please send it to: BCFHA, C/O Jeff Parma, 277 Harriott Avenue, Harrington Park, NJ 07640. Please make the checks out to the Bergen County Firemen’s Home Association

Our 2026 Meeting Schedule: All our meetings at the home start at noon at the NJ State Firemen’s Home in Boonton. Dates include August 15, October 18, and December 6 (annual Christmas Party). Check out our blog at https://tbcfha.wordpress.com/.

Scullville & Farmington Practice Stabilization Training

A joint training exercise was held on June 9, 2026, between the Scullville and Farmington Volunteer Fire Companies of Egg Harbor Township. The focus of the training was using struts for stabilization. - Fire News photo by Dennis

C. Sharpe

Westmont Display American Flags in Honor of 250th Anniversary

The Westmont Fire Company of Haddon Township (Camden County), established in 1902, proudly displayed United States flags in honor of our nation’s 250th birthday.
- Fire News photo by Kelly Gabliks

Woodstown Holds Annual Muster

The Cradle of Liberty Antique Fire Apparatus Association and the Glasstown Antique Fire Apparatus Association held their annual muster at Woodstown Lake on June 7, 2026. After a hearty breakfast at the Woodstown Diner, apparatus were displayed under sunny skies. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe

Weymouth House a Total Loss

The volunteer fire companies of Dorothy, Mays Landing and several other companies were dispatched to Elm Court in the Oaks of Weymouth on 11th Avenue in Weymouth Township, Atlantic County, on June 12, 2026, for the report of a structure fire. When patrol arrived they reported the porch on fire. The fire eventually consumed the structure and the cause was under investigation by the NJ Division of Fire Safety. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger

Pleasantville & Ocean City Head Off

On June 15, 2026, the Pleasantville and Ocean City fire departments went head-to-head in a rematch softball game. The OCFD emerged victorious and continues to hold the winning streak defeating the PFD for a second time. A future redemption game is in the

works with date and time to be announced. Congratulations to the OCFD on their win. A great time was had by both departments and those who attended. - Fire News photo by Eric ‘Doc’ Moran

Germania Celebrates 100th Anniversary

The Germania Volunteer Fire Company celebrated 100 years of dedicated service to their community, county and state on June 6, 2026, at their station. After several presentations, remarks were
made by their Chief David Simpkins and a proclamation presented to them by United States Congressman Jeff Van Drew, a firefighter himself.
- Fire News photos by Dennis C. Sharpe

Atlantic County Tanker Task Force Drafting Training

One of the more basic things a firefighter should know is how to draft. The Atlantic County Tanker Task Force A held a drill at the Elwood School and TTF Commander John Yochim said a successful drill was held as a continuous flow of water was done for three hours without interruption.

- Fire News photo by Sal Parisi

Fiery 3-Car Accident in Paterson

Save the Date: NJEPA Conference Returns April 12–16, 2027

Mark your calendars! The 2027 New Jersey Emergency Preparedness Association (NJEPA) Conference will return April 12–16, 2027, bringing together emergency management professionals, first responders, private sector partners, and public safety stakeholders from across New Jersey and beyond.

Each year, the NJEPA Conference provides attendees with valuable training, educational sessions, networking opportunities, and the chance to learn from experts and peers who are shaping the future of emergency management. Whether you’re an experienced emergency manager or new to the profession, the conference offers something for everyone.

Call for Papers Opens September 1

Do you have a successful program, innovative project, real-world disaster experience, or lessons learned that could benefit others in the emergency management community?

The 2027 Call for Papers officially opens September 1, 2026, and NJEPA invites presenters from all disciplines to submit proposals for consideration. We encourage submissions that promote best practices, emerging technologies, collaborative partnerships, case studies, and innovative approaches to preparedness, response, recovery, mitigation, and resilience.

We look forward to seeing you at the 2027 NJEPA Conference, April 12–16, 2027. Stay tuned for additional announcements, including registration, hotel accommodations, sponsorship opportunities, and more in the coming months.

The Paterson Fire Department operated at a three-car MVA, with two cars on fire, on Interstate-80 west at the Squirrelwood Road exit on June 17, 2026. - Fire News photo by Ron Bombaro

Mrs. New Jersey Attends Egg Harbor Memorial Day Parade

Mrs. New Jersey and her entourage joined members of the Egg Harbor Township Fire Department for their annual Memorial Day Parade.

- Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe

152nd Annual Freehold Memorial Day Parade

Members of the Adelphia Fire Company of Howell Township (Monmouth County) participated in the 152nd annual Freehold Memorial Day Parade and gathered for a photo before the parade. In 2027 Adelphia will celebrate its 100th anniversary with several events planned which you will find on the Adelphia Fire Facebook Page.

- Fire News photo by Kelly Gabliks

Totowa FD Unveils Memorial for Chiefs

Totowa Fire Department unveiled the new Fire Chief’s Memorial on May 28, 2026. - Fire News photo by Ron Bombaro

West Atlantic City Present Scholarship to Katerina Kolendorski

West Atlantic City Fire Chief Wally Bakely along with EHTFD Chief Patrick Flynn had the pleasure of presenting the Chief Anthony ‘Tony’ Canale Memorial Scholarship to this year’s recipient, Katerina Kolendorski. Congratulations Katerina!

- Fire New photo by Dennis C. Sharpe

Clifton Places New 2025 Pierce into Service

Recently, the Clifton Fire Department placed a new 2025 Pierce Enforcer Engine into service with a 1500-gpm pump and a 700-gallon water tank. This engine replaces a 2010 Pierce Arrow XT.

- Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti

LIBERTY ARTWORK JUST UNVEILED IT’S NEWEST MONUMENT “TOOLS OF TRADITION” AT THE MARYLAND STATE FIREFIGHTERS ASSOCIATION CONFERENCE IN OCEAN CITY, MD.

We finished it the night before we left St. Lous for the conference as it made its way across the country to the east coast. While traveling down the highway we noticed other cars slowing down to take photos of the statue and when we stopped for fuel or food we met brother firefighters who came up to inquire about the monument.

The following is the description of the monument and I have attached a picture of my father, Robert Daus Sr. Retired St. Louis Firefighter and founder of Liberty Art Works who was at the Convention to unveil it.

This exceptional bronze monument was sculpted to integrate iconic firefighting tools such as an Officer Trumpet, Wooden Ladder, Pike Pole, Straight Bore Nozzle, Fire Ax, and Leather Fire Helmet into a prominent freestanding display of tradition. The tools emerge from a rolled fire hose base which completes the inspiration of the sculpture. The ax will proudly display the department logo on both sides in a 3D form. Finished in a classic brown patina, sealed to withstand the elements, and outfitted with internal stainless-steel pins for mounting. Made in the USA

visit www.libertyartworks.com for more information.

Total Height 50” width (ax) 36”

Hose Base: 21” deep x 25” wide from coupling to edge of hose.

Weight: 250lbs approx.

New Jersey State Firemen’s Association Update

As Vice President of the NJSFA I am grateful to the Fire News for allowing us space in their publication to update our over

52,000 members. As well as those firefighters who have put off membership for whatever reason. The NJSFA Caucus season starts on the last week in July and runs through August. Preparing everyone statewide for the Convention in September.

There has been only one petition filled for each officer’s position: President, Joseph Hankins; Vice-President, Brian Martone; Treasurer, Edward Mullen; Secretary, Glenn Roemmich; 1st Asst. Sec, Richard Dreby; and 2nd Asst. Sec, Stepehen Fazekas

There has been only one petition filled for each County Executive Committee Member except for Atlantic County where Cindy Badger will have opposition.

Sussex County, Dan Scheuer, has decided not to seek re-election this year, and in his place, Thomas (‘Tink’) Washer filled a petition for Executive Committee.

There has been only one petition filled for each of the County Home Managers that are up for election this year (Cumberland,

Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, & Morris) with the exception of Monmouth County where there were two petitions filed to fill the unexpired term.

As always, reach out to your Executive Committee member or the State Office if you ever have any questions about any programs available through the NJSFA. Stay Safe.

I encourage every Firefighter to contact their Local Relief Secretary, President, or Chief and verify your Line number appears on their master list.

Submitted by Joseph T. Hankins, Vice President 1711 Routh 34 South, Wall Township, NJ 07727

Phone 732-798-8137

Email: JosephH@njsfa.com

New Jersey State Fire Museum and Fallen Firefighters Memorial

Serving as Vice President of the NJSFA has given me the opportunity to work with and be placed on the Board for the New Jersey State Fire Museum and Fallen Fighters Memorial. The Museum is a great keeper of fire service history and culture and allows the fire service to demonstrate it to the public.

The First Saturday in June is reserved for the Fallen Firefighters’ Memorial service. The Board held its service and we want that thank everyone who participated in this event to honor LODD Firefighter Julis Snyder from Camden Fire Department. Our hearts and prayers go out to his loved ones. We also remember the fallen firefighters from the past and pray for the safety to all firefighters. A huge thank you to our volunteers who have been working to make this special day happen, you are very much appreciated.

- Submitted by Joseph Hankins, New Jersey State Firemen’s Association

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