VOLUME 10, NO. 4
Serving New Jersey's Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
SEPTEMBER 2015
Full story on page 5 - Fire News photo by Peter Danzo
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Fire News, September 2015, Page 3
In this issue... Fatality at Turnpike Truck Crash The driver dies when a dump truck wedges between bridge abuttments. See story on page 8
A Service for New Jersey Firefighters and EMS Heroes
146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713 FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher TIM EDWARDS, Executive Editor
Tuckahoe 2-Alarmer A neighbor discovers fire in an unoccupied home. See story on page 10
6 Saved in Ocean Beach Quick work saves people stuck on a balcony of a multi-family building. See story on page 25
Tri-Counties Jamesburg Show Despite a wet start some 35 pieces of apparatus strut their stuff.
See story on page 28
Refinery Explosion Drill in Perth Amboy Over 300 firefighters, foamers, tenders and more apparatus worked the June drill.
See story on page 36
10th Annual NJ FF Bicycle Race Fundraiser Stirling firefighters hosted this long-running race for the St. Barnabas Burn Center. See story on page 38
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 38 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 40 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 41 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 42 Up Close . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 43
DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor GARY P. JOYCE, Asst. Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production/Sales LYNN SEDLER, Art Director CLIFF CHIESA, Production Manager Advertising Sales: BARBARA CONNOLLY, EVELYN ALOISIO Graphic Artist: GREGORY JONES FIRE NEWS NEW JERSEY PHOTOGRAPHERS Chad Aaronson, John Axford, Keith Addie, Adam Alberti, Ted Aurig, Kenneth E.Badger, Dick Berry, Tommy Bilancia, Thomas Bischoff, James Bonner, Joseph Brecko, John Buttino, Bob Chester, John Clark, Michael J. Coppola, Alex Coulter, Carl Crossman, Damien Davis, Chris Denton, Alan Dumoff, Brian Duddy, Brett M. Dzadik, Dan Eckert, Doug Fenichel, Tom Finnegan, Joe Fortunato, Liam Glinane, Israel Goldstein, Thomas Hayden Jr., David Hernandez, Robert Halberstadt, Roman Izaryk, Erica Jacoby, Jeffrey Konya, Kevin Maloney, Robert Munson, Paul Newborn, Robert F. Newkirk, Denis Niland, Mike Nowacki, Elvin Padilla, Ed Pinkevicz, Dane Policastro, Michael Ratcliffe, Joe Repici, Paul Rodriquez, Mark Rosetti, Chris Saraceno, Robert Scollan, Dennis C. Sharpe, Steve Sperlak, Steve Skipton, Matt Spadaro, Danielle Tagerty, Tim Sullivan, Robert Tallaksen, Wayne Tasaki, Giuseppe Tartaglia, Jim Trepeos, Gregory Taylor, Ron Trout, Ken VanPelt, Kevin Umbach, Jose Vazquez, Ronnie Viola, Tom Vogel, Tom Walker, Mike Wallace, Chris Whitam, Wells P. Wilson, Gerald Wyhopen, Jr., Peter Danzo. Columnists: Bruce Johnson, John Salka, Billy Goldfeder. COPYRIGHT 2015, THE FIRE NEWS LLC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
Time to Change Seasons! My head is spinning as I write my September editorial. Typically I focus in on an idea, research it, and then share my thoughts with you. When I sat down to write my September editorial, my thoughts scattered and I realized that September is a month which, as first responders, we must give special thought to. It is a time to redirect our thoughts and actions. School will be reopening and our children will be heading back to class. As responders we must give extra attention to our school crossings and neighborhood streets to watch out for that kid whose mind is on getting to school on time and not on doing it safely. I know you are always cautious when responding to calls, but rethink your response to the firehouse in your personal car and driving your departments' vehicles. Seriously take the time to slow down so that you could safely stop to avoid hitting that overzealous child who might not hear your sirens and see your lights. What? Who isn't going to hear my sirens and see my flashing lights? I remember a lady walking out in front of a responding apparatus in Queens. The driver and the officer thought they were going to run this pedestrian over as she stepped in front of the rig. Returning to quarters, they saw the lady shopping. They stopped the rig and got out to talk to her. She shook her head in tears and said, “I’m sorry, I never saw you, I was thinking about my husband who passed away this morning and I wasn’t paying attention.” Wow, the officer felt horrible! Fortunately the driver of the rig was paying attention and was able to stop within inches of the woman. Reminder: Is your Fire Prevention Program in order? Now is the time to order supplies and to review your program, updating it to grasp the attention of your community. When teachers return to school, the first thing they do is review their goals and objectives. You should do the same thing; after all you are a teacher of fire safety. Write down what you are planning to achieve with the thousands of children you will be teaching fire safety. Practice your lessons before you get up in front of the class and … dress to impress! In September, I pause to give remembrance to all responders and workers who lost their lives on 9/11. I think of the families that were broken apart by this tragic day. I will attend a memorial mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Manhattan and I will work my way down to the National September 11 Memorial and Museum to say a prayer at the Reflecting Pools. Finally, I thank FDNY Commissioner Daniel A. Nigro, FDNY Chief of Department James Leonard and the numerous chiefs, officers, firefighters and friends in government, who always come out to support the families that have lost a loved one. On September 11, 2015, start your day in prayer to remember the fallen responders whose lives were lost as a result of the attack on the World Trade Center. Join me and stop to give thought to those that gave all on 9/11 and to those that have passed as a result of operating at the WTC site. …Dennis
Announcements FDNY, NATIONAL FALLEN FIREFIGHTERS FOUNDATION INAUGURAL NATIONAL STAIR CLIMB National Fire Prevention Weekin October will culminate with the National Stair Climb, an event honoring firefighters who have made the ultimate sacrifice. FDNY Fire Commissioner Daniel Nigro joined leaders from the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), United Technologies Corporation (UTC), Kidde Fire Safety, and loved ones of fallen firefighters to announce the event at FDNY Firehouse Ladder 20 and Division 1 on Lafayette Street. Seven members of this station died on 9/11. Previous stair climbs have focused solely on the 343 members of the FDNY who perished on 9/11. The National Stair Climb, scheduled for October 10 at Citi Field, will expand the scope of this tradition to remember all of America’s fallen firefighters, and is the first event of its kind to take place in New York City with the support of the FDNY. Participants will climb 2,200 steps in Citi Field, to symbolize the 110 stories of the World Trade Center Towers — the ascent that FDNY firefighters took on September 11, 2001 — and the ultimate sacrifice that 343 first responders made that day. It also is a journey of hope, raising funds to help programs for surviving family members of firefighters across the country. Approximately 100 firefighters die in the line of duty each year in the U.S. The first 9/11 stair climb took place in Denver in 2005 when five Colorado firefighters gathered at a high-rise to climb 110 flights of stairs in memory of their 343 FDNY brothers. In 2010, they partnered with the NFFF to hold a series of climbs around the country. The National Stair Climb is open to the public and to all ages. Proceeds will benefit the FDNY Counseling Services Unit and the NFFF. Participants will receive a name badge honoring or in memory of the firefighter for whom they have chosen to climb and an event t-shirt. Early registration is $35 until August 31. For more information and to register, visit www.nationalstairclimb.org.
FALL FESTIVAL AND POKER RUN The Silverton Volunteer Fire Company will hold its annual Fall Festival and Poker Run on Saturday, October 3, 2015 from 1100 to 1800 at the Silverton Fire House, 15 Kettle Creek Road in Toms River. The festival offers free admission and there will be fire and vehicle extrication demonstrations, antique fire trucks, the Toms River Police Motorcycle Unit and K9 demonstrations and more, including food, refreshments, local vendors and live music. A Poker Run — for bikes, hot rods and classic cars — will also be held and will feature a 2015 Harley Davidson Street Glide to be raffled off. Motorcycle poker run prices are $20 per entry per poker hand, $10 per passenger per poker hand and $20 per auto per poker hand. Registration starts at 0900 and the run will end at the firehouse. Raffle tickets for the Harley Davidson are $100 per ticket with only 500 tickets being sold. For tickets contact Chief Tattersall at 732-255-3244. For more information visit www.svfc29.com.
Looking back at 1989 (that’s 25 years ago!) when the Farmington Volunteer Fire Company and the New Jersey Forest Fire Service provided mutual aid to the City of Pleasantville on Clematis Avenue and the Meadows for an out of control fire. If the fire had jumped the street, it would have taken out blocks of houses. The fire was contained to the meadows. - Fire News photo courtesy of Harold ‘Whitey’ Swartz from the Dennis C. Sharpe collection
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2 FFs Injured in Union City 5-Alarm On July 26, 2015, two Union City police officers on patrol observed a building fire on 10th Street between Central and West Avenues and requested fire units. While en route NHRFR E-1 requested a second alarm due to a very large column of smoke visible, and then requested a third alarm for heavy fire in a three-story frame building with extension into the rear of several other three-story frames on Central Avenue. Companies immediately went to work stretching lines into all four buildings as trucks went to the roofs for ventilation and conducted primary searches. With all companies heavily engaged a fourth alarm was requested followed by a fifth. As most visible fire was knocked down, a Mayday was sounded when two firefighters from Jersey City E-5 fell through the railing of the stairs in one of the exposure buildings. One of the firefighters was removed from the building in a Stokes basket and the other was able to exit on his own. Both were transported to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries. - Fire News photos by Peter Danzo
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Somers Point MVA
The City of Somers Point Volunteer Fire Department responded to the intersection of Chapman Boulevard and Route 9 on July 12, 2015, for a two-car MVA. Firefighters needed to extricate the passenger of one vehicle, and the injured were taken to the Shore Medical Center in Somers Point by the Somers Point and Shore Medical Center EMS Squads. - Fire News photos by Carl Crossman
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Fatality in Fiery Turnpike Crash
On August 4, 2015, the Linden Fire Department received a call to respond to the New Jersey Turnpike, southbound, for a truck fire with possible entrapment. Upon arrival fire crews found an overturned dump truck under the S. Wood Avenue Bridge, wedged between two bridge abutments and fully engulfed in flame. Crews began their attack but were quickly pushed back when the fire spread to the high voltage lines running under the bridge ,causing them to explode. Hose line monitors were set up in an attempt to extinguish the truck fire and cool down the bridge. These second efforts were successful in extinguishing the fire and preventing any further damage to the bridge. After awaiting PSE&G’s okay, the towing company was able to pull the truck out from between the abutment, allowing engine crews access to assist in the recovery of the victim. The fire caused the New Jersey Turnpike to be shut down for hours until the bridges could be inspected and the burned power lines could be removed from under the bridge. The driver of the truck died in the crash. - Fire News photos by Mathew Pribish, Linden FD
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Rehabbing in New Milford
Due to the extreme temperatures and humidity at a basement fire on July 19, 2015, the New Milford Ambulance Corp set up a rehab station for firefighters. - Fire News photos by Peter Danzo
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N. Brunswick 5-Alarm
On July 22, 2015, a five-alarm fire broke out inside the DCH Collision Center on Livingston Avenue in North Brunswick. The fire burned for days and caused many local residents to be evacuated. - Fire News photo by Ken Ternlund
2 Alarmer Destroys Home in Tuckahoe On July 28, 2015, dispatch received a call from a neighbor that his next door neighbor’s house, on Poplar Avenue, had flames coming from the rear. Upon arrival, Tuckahoe’s Chief Ed Carter immediately reported a fully involved structure fire with flames blowing out the rear windows and roof, and requested mutual aid and a tanker assignment from the surrounding departments. Marmora, Seaville, Upper Township Rescue Squad, and the Cape May County Fire Marshall’s office responded. No one was injured, the house was unoccupied and the fire was under investigation. - Fire News photos by Robert Macom and Dennis C. Sharpe
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E. Newark Fire Draws a Crowd
Late on July 28, 2015, the East Newark Fire Department was dispatched to a report of a fire at the town garage on Grant Avenue. On arrival companies encountered a heavy smoke condition and heavy fire in the rear of the building, however it was determined that the actual fire building was next door and the garage was actually exposure B. A second alarm was immediately called bringing mutual aid from Kearny and Harrison to the scene of the well advanced fire with major exposure problems. A third alarm was requested bringing additional companies from Jersey City, North Arlington, Lyndhurst and North Hudson Regional Fire and Rescue to the scene, while additional companies provided house coverage. A brief interior attack was attempted, which resulted in the rescue of an unconscious dog but, as the fire intensified, command ordered an evacuation and defensive attack. Due to high humidity, a heavy smoke condition blanketed the entire area. Companies were successful in knocking down the fire that extended to the town garage and also protecting the D exposure, a 2-1/2 story frame dwelling, which had fire impinging on it. Several firefighters suffered minor injuries, mostly due to the heat and humidity. Four families were displaced and the building was a total loss. - Fire News photos by Peter Danzo
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Smithville House Fire
The volunteer fire companies of Oceanville and Bayview were dispatched to Falmouth Court in the Smithville section of the township on August 7, 2015, after the Galloway Township 911 dispatch received a report from the occupants their house was on fire. Oceanville Chief Tim Mooney arrived and established command
for a one-story, single family home with fire showing from the roof. Command requested an RIT from Pomona and the cascade unit from South Egg Harbor. The fire took an hour to bring under control and the cause was under investigation. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
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FFs Injured in Carlstadt 5-Alarmer On June 29, 2015 the Carlstadt Fire Department was operating at a fully involved truck fire on the New Jersey Turnpike when the dispatcher reported a structure fire on Hackensack Street. The first arriving unit reported heavy smoke showing from a 2-1/2 story frame building with heavy fire in the rear and a second alarm was requested. With many companies still en route, a third alarm was sounded. An aggressive attack was underway with multiple lines stretched into the building ,as well as the exposure where units were confirming extension. Truck companies went to the roof to open up and, with all companies heavily engaged, command requested third alarm companies to the scene and a fourth alarm for cover. Due to the age of the buildings and years of renovations, fire was found to be running the walls and void spaces of both buildings, and from time to time heavy smoke would issue from the upper floors and roof, but the companies maintained an aggressive offensive attack. Cover companies were requested to the scene, and a fifth alarm was sounded for cover. Both buildings were heavily damaged and several firefighters were injured, with one transported to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries. - Fire News photos by Peter Danzo
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Paterson 4-Alarmer
On June 30, 2015, the Paterson Fire Department responded for a reported house fire on Hamilton Avenue. While en route BC-2 reported smoke visible from several blocks away. On arrival, companies encountered heavy fire in a 2-1/2 story frame dwelling extending into B and D exposures, similar 2-1/2 story frames. A second alarm was requested as companies set up master streams and worked on protecting exposures. Due to the fire conditions, companies went to an exterior attack on the main fire building and the B exposure. Despite heavy fire in the attic of the D exposure, companies maintained an aggressive interior attack on that structure. The fire eventually went to four alarms with mutual aid companies covering the city and assisting at the scene, and with the use of a ladder pipe, a deck gun, several ground monitors and numerous handlines. - Fire News photos by Peter Danzo
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Farmington MVA The Farmington Volunteer Fire Company from the Egg Harbor Township Fire Department responded to Delilah Road in front of the Atlantic County MUA on July 11, 2015, for a single-vehicle MVA with entrapment. One civilian was removed by EMS and transported by EHT Ambulance. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Northfield Structure Fire The City of Northfield Volunteer Fire Department responded to Sutton Avenue on July 13, 2015, for a report of a structure fire. Firefighters arrived to find heavy smoke and heat in the structure. The fire was brought under control quickly but the family’s dog perished. The cause of the fire was under investigation. Pleasantville was RIT and the City of Linwood covered Northfield during the incident. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
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Collyers’ Mansion at New Milford Blaze
On July 19, 2015, the New Milford Fire Department responded to E. Woodland Road for a report of a house fire. On arrival the chief reported heavy smoke showing from all sides of the 1-1/2 story dwelling. As companies made entry they reported high heat, heavy smoke and Collyers’ Mansion conditions and were unable to locate the fire. Due to NMFD’s tower ladder being out of service, Oradell was dispatched automatically and additional mutual aid from Dumont and River Edge was requested to the scene. Crews finally were able to locate the fire in the basement and knock it down as other companies opened up above the fire to check for extension. - Fire News photos by Peter Danzo
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PWC Accident in Somers Point The City of Somers Point Fire Department, Police, EMS, the New Jersey Marine Police, and the US Coast Guard responded to Great Egg Harbor Bay for PWCers that collided. One person was removed from the water by NJ Marine Police and the Coast Guard and was transported to the boat ramp at Kennedy Park where he was treated by EMS and transported to Shore Medical Center in Somers Point. - Fire News photos by Carl Crossman
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Quick Work Saves Marmora Home
On July 16, 2015, the quick response and actions of Mamora arrival, the crew knocked down the fire and contained it to only the Volunteer Fire Company’s Engine 1530 crew minimized damage area of and above the curtains. Crews from Tower 1550 responded, from ahouse fire. Units responded to the structure fire, reportedly as well as Tuckahoe, Seaville, and Upper Township Rescue Squad. - Fire News photo by Robert Macom in the master bathroom, ignited by candles burning curtains. Upon
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Displaced in Linden
On July 15, 2015, Linden Fire Department units were dispatched to a working fire at the 1400 block of Bower Street. Upon arrival ,units found a working fire in of the rear part of the home. Fire units made an aggressive attack and quickly knocked down the fire. Mutual aid units from Elizabeth, Rahway, Roselle, Union and Westfield assisted at scene and covered the city during the fire. There were no injuries reported. One resident was home at the time of the fire but she was able to get out safely and phone dispatch. Heavy damage to the rear of the home has caused the family to be displaced. - Fire News photo by Matthew Pribish
Fire at Linden Recruit’s Home On August 1, 2015, the Linden Fire Department received a call for a structure fire on Hayes Avenue. Upon arrival, the D shift found a fully involved house fire, which was knocked down with an exterior attack. Unfortunately, this was home to a Linden Fire Department recruit and his family. Thankfully no one was injured but they lost everything including the two dogs that alerted them to the fire, enabling them to get out in time. The family has set up a Go Fund Me page to collect donations to get them through this difficult time at www.gofundme.com/3u2atsfug. - Fire News photo by Matthew Pribish
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6 Saved in Ocean Beach Blaze On July 5, 2015, the Ocean City Fire Department responded to the 900 beach block of St. Charles Place for a reported structure fire. Ocean City Police arrived first and reported smoke showing with people trapped on the balconies at the front and rear of a three-story multi-family occupancy. Firstdue Engine 1 and Truck 1 threw ground ladders to the balconies and begin rescue while other firefighters grabbed the bumper line off Engine 1 and knocked down the fire, which was contained to the ground floor. The City of Margate Fire Department iassisted. Five civilians were rescued, while one invalid on the third floor was protected in place until the fire was knocked down, then removed. All the civilians were transported to Shore Regional Hospital in Somers Point by OCFD Ambulances and Upper Township EMS. One firefighter suffered a lacerated arm. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Denville FD Saves Pets On May 4, 2015, the Denville Fire Dispatcher received calls for a fire on Riverside Drive. Upon arrival, units confirmed that the entire second floor of a residential structure was fully involved. The attack team forced the front door and proceeded up the stairs knocking down the fire. Chief Wesley Sharples requested mutual aid from Rockaway Borough and Rockaway Township, and Mt. Tabor (coverage). Firefighters were able to save two dogs and some birds on the first floor. An investigation indicated that the fire was caused by a heater used to keep snakes warm. The snakes did not survive. - Fire News photo by Charles Botti
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O’Grady Firefighting Family in Ridgefield Park
For many firefighters, the members of the firehouse are like an extended family. For some, however, the firehouse is full of actual blood family members. One of these families is in the small Bergen County village of Ridgefield Park. The name Friendship Hook and Ladder Company #1 of the Ridgefield Park Fire Department (RPFD) is synonymous with several family names in town. One of these includes several generations of the O’Grady family. In May of 1980, John O’Grady, Sr., joined the company and has held many leadership positions, including several terms as Captain. He is currently the 1st Lieutenant and on July 4, 2015, received his 35-year award from the Village. His brother Alan also joined the RPFD that same year. Both were very active members with some memorable saves under their belts. These include the successful rescue of a woman in the early 1980s from her home with a high concentration of natural gas. John’s sons are now proud fourth generation members of the RPFD. John O’Grady, Jr., joined the department as a junior firefighter in 2002 before becoming active in 2004. He has served as both 2nd and 1st Lieutenant before moving with his wife to Freehold. He currently serves as a 2nd Lieutenant for the Good Will Hook & Ladder Co. of the Freehold Borough Fire Department. Brian O’Grady is the current Captain of Hook & Ladder #1 and he joined the department as a junior firefighter in 2004. On July 4, 2015, both Brian, and Truck Company #2 Captain John Antola, were awarded unit citations for their company’s successful August 19, 2014, roperescue after an MVA in which a person was trapped over the Overpeck Creek. Connor O’Grady joined the department as a junior in 2010, becoming active in 2012. - Fire News photos by Matt Spadaro
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Tri-Counties Jamesburg Show
On June 28, 2015, the Tri-Counties Fire Association held there annual muster at Thompson Park in Jamesburg. Despite the rainy weather in the morning, about 35 pieces of apparatus attended the muster. There was a parade through the local streets of Jamesburg, followed by some apparatus drafting out of the lake and competing in bracket style pumping. Jamesburg Fire Department was on hand providing food and refreshments to muster attendees. - Fire News photos by Matt Spadaro, Mike Nowacki and Amy Batista
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Tri-Counties Show...continued
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Canale Scholarships Awarded
The Egg Harbor Township Volunteer Fire Department in Atlantic County presented its annual scholarship awards during the EHT High School Scholarship Awards ceremony on June 10, 2015. The scholarship is dedicated to Chief Anthony ‘Tony’ Canale who was one of the founding members of the Bargaintown Volunteer Fire Company in 1932. This year, the Egg Harbor Township Volunteer Fire Department is proud to award four scholarships. The recipients are Madison Barbieri, Kristen Pinkney, Shelby Wessner, and
Linda Webb. Pictured are EHTFD President Wallace Bakeley, Chief of the West Atlantic City VFC; Lt. Gil Zonge of the Cardiff VFC with Kristen Pinkney; Lou Dunbar, of the NJ Forest Fire Service, Division C District Warden (ret.) with granddaughter Madison Barbieri; Shelby Wessner with her father Robert Wessner of the Scullville VFC. (Not pictured is Linda Webb and her father, John Webb of the Scullville VFC.) - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
Cradle of Liberty Antique Muster
The Cradle of Liberty Antique Fire Association held their annual muster at Cooper River Park on August 2, 2015, under sunny skies, great participation and good crowds. Fire apparatus from the early 1900s to the modern era were displayed. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
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Moving Lots of Water
The Atlantic County Fire Fighter’s Association responded to a multialarm fire in North Brunswick on July 22, 2015, with a water tender strike team from five volunteer fire companies. Pictured are the Bargaintown and Landisville water tenders offloading. Each tender ran approximately 300,000 gallons. - Fire News photos by Eugene Sharp
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Ocean City Preps Youth for the Real World The Ocean City Fire Department in Cape May County has been hosting a firefighter summer camp for youth and continued it this summer. It is a positive example for those who want to one day continue on to a field of public service. The youth are trained in all aspects of firefighting except live fire. They flow water, roll hose, are trained to tie knots, basic first aid and taught manners and discipline, all under the watchful eyes of the career firefighters of Ocean City. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
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Oil Explosion Drill in Perth Amboy
The Perth Amboy Fire Department participated in a drill in which there was an explosion, fire and injuries at the Buckeye Facility, used for crude petroleum storage. The first-alarm assignment responded to the initial incident and rescued the injured parties and then made an attempt to extinguish the fire. As the incident escalated and the fire grew, additional companies and resources were called. Before the drill’s conclusion, water flow in excess of 7000 gpm was achieved, and at one point 8000 gpm was reached with the ability to still flow another 1000 gpm. The initial water supply came from the on-site hydrant. Later a 4200-foot LDH relay from an off-site hydrant was run via Middlesex County North East regional LDH strike team. Tanker/tenders were utilized from the Middlesex County Tanker/Tender Task Force, which was assisted by tanker/tenders from Somerset, Monmouth, Mercer and Burlington. In total, 310 firefighters participated. Specialty apparatus, including, but not limited to, UASI foam tenders, Carteret’s foam tender and brand new Pierce foam super pumper, Kendal Park/Middlesex County Fire Marshal’s foam trailer/deluge unit, Middlesex County OEM command bus, various ATVs, and the Salvation Army rehab canteen truck, operated on scene. - Fire News photos by Craig Haas
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Bloomfield Night Out On August 4, 2015, members of the Bloomfield Fire Police and EMS participated in the first annual National Night Out at Foley Field accompanied by a live band and free food and giveaways for the kids. Pictured are members of Rescue One. - Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
ACFA, NJFFS at 4H Fair
The Atlantic County Firefighters Association and the New Jersey Forest Fire Service came out in support of the Atlantic County 4-H Association for their annual fair which ran from August 5 to 7, 2015, at the fairgrounds on Route 50. Firefighters spent the three days teaching children, young and old, fire prevention messages such as having working smoke detectors in bedrooms, cooking safety, and much more. - Fire News photos by Dennis C. Sharpe
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2015 New Jersey Firefighter’s Bicycle Race Fundraiser The 18th annual NJ Firefighters Bicycle Race to raise funds for the St. Barnabas Hospital Burn Center Foundation was held on July 26, 2015, in downtown Stirling. A large crowd cheered as the racers completed the two-mile race in full turnout gear (less boots). After the race Stirling firefighters hosted a picnic lunch in the air conditioned firehouse for the racers and guests. After the meal trophies were awarded to the winners by firefighter race chairman Frank Reilly and Burn Center Foundation director Kathy Conlon. Foundation. The top 10 winners were: 1st place, Dawher Castro (Stirling VFC - the second year he won the race; pictured top right); 2nd, Peter Aprahamian (Liberty Corner FC); 3rd, Eric Murphy (Liberty Corner); 4th, Richard Freyer (Dunellen; pictured bottom right. He has placed in the top five over the last eight years); 5th, Richard Owens (Wilkes-Barre [PA]); 6th, Charles Mazzucco (Millington); 7th, Kurt Meaney (Hampton); 8th, Tom English (Berkeley Heights); 9th, Dan Roth, (Millington); and 10th, Will Wallace (Millington). The first place female firefighter was Isabella Satore of the Millington Fire Co., and the oldest racer was Kenneth Larson, a fit 67-year old firefighter, from the Green Brook Fire EMS who finished 47th and was presented with the “Oldest Firefighter Racer Award,” which he accepted with much fanfare. A first ever in this year’s race were twins Christine and Victoria Loughran and their father Bill. All are members of the Sea Girt Fire Department. The participating fire departments were: Berkeley Heights, Dunellen, East Franklin, Forked River, Green Brook (pictured opposite page, bottom left: Green Brook Fire EMS riders get ready to race, the oldest racer is Kenneth Larson on the right winner of the Oldest Fire fighter award), Hampton, Kingston, Liberty Corner, Millington, North Branch, North Stelton, Pequannock, Perth Amboy, Plainsboro, Sea Girt, Stirling (pictured opposite page, bottom right: Stirling Firefighter Anthony Pepe with his dog Gino directed firefighters to the Stirling firehouse. Gino is the unofficial firehouse dog.), and Wilkes-Barre PA. For more photos go to: www.stirlingfd.com and click on the Facebook icon. The 2016 race will be held on Sunday, September 26. - Fire News photos courtesy of Frank Reilly
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Bicycle Race Results...continued
Fire News, September 2015, Page 39
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P.C. RICHARDS & SONS VIP PROGRAM FOR FIRE, RESCUE AND EMS P.C. Richard & Son, America's #1 family owned and operated appliance, electronics and mattress retailer, offers an exclusive VIP Discount Program to all Fire, Rescue and EMS Personnel in the tri-state area. On display at its 66 Superstores, serving New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and Northeast Philly, is the largest selection of televisions, home appliances, designer built-in appliances, personal electronics, and computers. Plus, P.C. Richard & Son has expanded its selection of merchandise and added several exciting new categories including mattresses, Apple products, home automation, newly expanded housewares department, health & fitness bands, and Sonos products. All of P.C. Richard & Son's employees are dedicated to providing superior service before, during and after the sale, and giving customers a wonderful and rewarding shopping experience. It starts with friendly and knowledgeable salespeople, who explain all the features of today's high-tech products, by providing next day delivery, as well as offering professional installation and a repair service by company-owned crews. Currently run by the fourth generation of the Richard family, P.C. Richard & Son is built on a 105-year tradition. To receive your VIP Discount pricing, present an official employee ID to our Showroom Manager or Assistant Manager at any store location. Contact Joe Morrone at Joe.Morrone@PCRichard.com or Todd Costello at Todd@PCRichard.com for more information.
FIREHOUSE EXPO GOING TO NASHVILLE IN 2016 Fire-Service Conference Will Have New Location after 32 Years in Baltimore Firehouse announced at July's Firehouse Expo in Baltimore that its 2016 event will be held in Nashville, Tennessee. In addition to the change in location, Firehouse Expo will move to the fall, with October dates for 2016. “It was not our original plan to be in Nashville in 2016,” said Ed Nichols, Vice President of Events, “however, circumstances required us to find a new location and Nashville made the most sense. It’s a hub to the southeastern United States, is easily reachable by air or car and offers built in entertainment opportunities to exhibitors and attendees at no additional cost in a way very few venues can offer.” Additionally, Nichols added, “The way the state has embraced the announcement and the support that has materialized so far has been impressive. This provides the platform for us to create something unique for the fire service, both regionally and nationally, consistent with what Firehouse and the Firehouse Expo brand has come to be known for.” Planning for Firehouse Expo 2016 got under way on the heels of the 2015 event, and both the city of Nashville and the Tennessee fire service are excited about the opportunity. “The Tennessee Fire Chiefs Association is excited for the opportunity to partner with Firehouse Expo. Firehouse has a long history of supporting firefighter education, training and safety, which aligns with the mission of the Tennessee Fire Chiefs Association and the Tennessee fire service,” says James Fountain, President of the Tennessee Fire Chiefs Association.
“I am elated that Firehouse has chosen Music City as its location for Firehouse Expo in 2016,” says Gary West, State Fire Marshal. “The State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Tennessee fire service are proud to host such an elite conference and exposition. Nashville is an exciting city to visit and will provide an outstanding atmosphere for a successful conference next year.” The change in location of Firehouse Expo follows on the heels of wholesale additions and improvements to the Firehouse team in 2014 and 2015. Improvements started with the leadership additions of Group Show Manager Brian Cassell and Editor-In-Chief Timothy Sendelbach, initially envisioned to work in complement with Editor Emeritus Harvey Eisner until his unexpected death in October of 2014, and followed with substantial financial investment in the event, particularly in program content and conference development. This change in venue and time of year in some ways creates a whole new Firehouse Expo. Firehouse Expo will take place October 18-22, 2016, at the Music City Center in Nashville. Firehouse World will take place January 31 to February 4, 2016, at the San Diego Convention Center in San Diego. For more information regarding Firehouse Expo 2016, please contact Show Manager Brian Cassell at Brian.Cassell@Firehouse.com.
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Fire News, September 2015, Page 41
Car Fire Drill for Pine Brook
On July 22, 2015, the Pine Brook Community Hose Company in Tinton Falls traveled to the Middletown Fire Academy to drill on vehicle fires. The drill was very successful as many new members of the fire company learned and gained experience on extinguishing vehicle fires. - Fire News photo by Mike Nowacki
Page 42, Fire News, September 2015
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Lanoka Harbor Celebrates 75 Years
The Lanoka Harbor Volunteer Fire Company in Lacey Township celebrated 75 years of dedicated service to their citizens and community under sunny skies and great participation with a gala parade that was preceded by an inspection of apparatus by the New Jersey State Fire Chiefs Parade Judges Association. The parade was led by Chief Jack Abramowitz to Hebrew Park where the participants were entertained by a country band and plenty of food and drink. Over 35 fire companies from throughout New Jersey attended. - Fire News photos by Dennis C. Sharpe
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Fire News, September 2015, Page 43
Up Close & Personal
Hasbrouck Heights firefighter Michael LeSane washes his eye out after getting glass in it during a fire on June 29, 2015 in Carlstadt. - Fire News photo by Peter Danzo
Retired Deputy Chief Robert Leeds of the City of Northfield Volunteer Fire Department, who was the apparatus operator for the RIT assignment to the City of Pleasantville for the Peter Lumber Company fire on May 31, 2015. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
Mrs. and Chief Tilley at the James' Journey to Recovery event on June 20, 2015. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Capt. Joe Coletta of Bloomfield Fire Department Truck 1 coordinating a recent DWI extrication demo at Bloomfield High School. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
City of Vineland Fire Department Chief Robert Pagnani (left) and acting-Chief of Department for the City of Bridgeton Fire Department Todd Bowen (right) with City of Millville Chief Kurt Hess at Chief Hess’ retirement party - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
Page 44, Fire News, September 2015
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Cops ... Really?
At this past EMS/Fire Department Super Show, at Nassau Coliseum, I was approached by Firefighter Charles Ransonson of Bethpage. He asked me if I could do a show at the Nassau County Fire Department Barbecue contest, called “Can you handle the fire?” The contest took place in front of Fairway Market, right outside of Mitchell Field in on Long Island. All proceeds from the contest went to the Nassau County Firefighter Museum, located at Mitchell Field. When I arrived at the BBQ, Charles was the first one setting up. He brought his own trailer filled with all gadgets and doodads. There was one rule for the contest — you had to use chicken and ribs in your meal. Charles was smoking his meat and to say Charles is an expert on ribs, would be an understatement. Yet the ribs are not what wowed me with Charles’ recipe. It was his Bacon Explosion. This was one of his side dishes for the contest. It was a heart attack waiting to happen, but worth the risk! Between the different recipes that Charles was making, I ventured out to meet with the men from the other departments. Syosset and Bethpage had a little bit of a rivalry. Firefighter Frank Visilli had a lot to say about Charles. Charles had his trophies, from past contests, set up on his table. I asked if he was nervous that Bethpage might beat him. Frank replied with fireman’s wit, “I think it’s nice that he brought his bowling trophy and little league trophy, but he won’t be adding to that trophy table today.” Frank made a delicious pulled-pork sandwich out of his ribs, as well as a chicken gumbo. After I tasted his food, I said that Bethpage might be in trouble. Other departments came from East Meadow, Malverne, Westbury and Oceanside to name but a few. The contestant I was most surprised to see were from the Nassau County Police Medics. This team was led by Mike Seltzer and Mark Pollack. Their ribs were good, but come on, they’re cops! They can’t win a fire department cook-off! Yet, sure enough, when the judges read their verdict, the Nassau County Police Medics were victorious. In the closing the show, standing with the police medics, I said nice and loud, “Really? The cops?” They were great ribs! Be sure to watch the new season of Firehouse Kitchen beginning in September 2015. Be sure to check you local listings for times and channels. To find out more about Firehouse Kitchen or how to become a sponsor, visit firehousekitchenshow.com.
BACON EXPLOSION 16 Strips of raw bacon 8 Precooked Strips of bacon 4 Sweet pork sausages 2 Tablespoons of pork seasoning 1 Cup of shredded Cheddar cheese Lay eight strips of raw bacon one direction in a baking tin. Lay the remaining eight strips of raw bacon in another direction (a basket pattern). Slice open the sweet sausage and place the inside contents on top of the raw bacon. Add the pork seasoning. Then, lay the eight precooked bacon strips on top. Roll everything into a log shape. Cook in a smoker for three hours (check conversion time for conventional ovens). Eat and enjoy!
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Fire News, September 2015, Page 45
Tall Ships Fest in Camden
A tall ships festival was held on June 25 in front of the aquarium in Camden. Participating in the festivities were fireboats from the Philadelphia and Camden departments. - Fire News photos by Amy Batista
ED MAY’S GOLD LEAF Hand Crafted
FIRE APPARATUS PIN STRIPING & LETTERING (973) 338-3637 CELL: (862) 202-1990 EMAIL: CEMAY77@AOL.COM
Page 46, Fire News, September 2015
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Fun in Hamburg
The Hamburg-Sussex Fire Department provided water for an end-of-the-school year celebration at the Hamburg School. - Fire News photo by Keith Sukennikoff