VOLUME 12, NO. 4
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Serving New Jersey's Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes SEPTEMBER 2017
Full story on page 6. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
Fire News is proud to be the Official Publication for the NJ Fire Expo. See page 8 for more info. – New Jersey Edition –
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Fire News, September 2017, Page 3
In this issue... 2 For 1 in Mays Landing While responding to a fire in a mobile home park, a second fire is discovered and dealt with. See story on page 8
Paterson House Fire Firefighters handle a vacant house fire with extension. See story on page 16
Patcong Bridge Car Fire Firefighters quickly knock down a fully involved car fire on the Patcong Creek Bridge. See story on page 25
Remembering the Hackensack 5 The community gathers to remember the deaths of five firefighters on the fire’s 29th anniversary. See story on page 34
It Can Always Be Worse A school bus hits a house in Egg Harbor Township, taking out two 250-pound propane tanks. See story on page 39
Stirling Graduates New Firefighters Five graduate Firefighter II in one class in Long Hill Township. See story on page 40
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 Announcements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 32 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 34 Special Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 36 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 38
A Service for New Jersey Firefighters and EMS Heroes
146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713 FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher TIM EDWARDS, Executive Editor DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor GARY P. JOYCE, Asst. Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production/Sales LYNN SEDLER, Art Director CLIFF CHIESA, Production Manager Advertising Sales: BARBARA CONNOLLY, 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 2017, THE FIRE NEWS LLC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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Letters to the Editor, byline articles, and columns represent the opinions of the writers and photographers and are not necessarily the views of the Fire News. We reserve the right to edit all of the above. We are not responsible for errors in advertisements beyond the cost of advertising space. Copy submitted is subject to editing for space requirements. The placing of an advertisement in this publication does not constitute endorsement. Contents are copyrighted. Editorial and advertising copy cannot be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Fire News is published monthly by Fire News LLC, with corporate offices at 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713.
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
9/11: Never Forget Every year, I sit back and think of the staggering statistics that have changed the lives of so many responders and innocent civilians who had the misfortune of being murdered in the attacks on the United States of America on September 11, 2001. For those of you who lived, worked, responded, were curious and visited the site, the smell cannot be forgotten. The smoky mix of burnt plastic and smoldering materials can instantly bring back memories for many of the aftermath of the collapse of the two towers of the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. Some facts: 91,000 liters of jet fuel and 1,200,000 tons of building materials burned at 1000 degrees for a very long time. There were 23,000 fluorescent light bulbs in the World Trade Center. The bulbs contained small amounts of known carcinogens which vaporized for everyone to breathe. Then there were 75,000 telephones reportedly in the buildings, attached by 19,000 miles of cable — think PCBs. The coatings on the cables and 300 main frame computers that were pulverized and burned gave off toxic gases that many inhaled for many weeks. [Visit the “Let’s Roll Forum” for some incredible facts about the WTC.]
This year, I lost a few close friends, who succumbed to 9/11 related cancers. I can only say they set the example of being true American heroes by continuing to make everyone aware that the diseases related to the attack on this country continue to have a horrible impact on us. I thank Firefighter Jimmy Lanza of Ladder 43 and Firefighter Ray Pfeifer for all they did to make sure our government does not walk away from a situation that is predicted to continue to get worse. Doctors have now linked many respiratory illnesses and 68 cancers to the WTC toxic dust. Last September, the FDNY added 17 names to a list of those who have died of 9/11related illness, bringing the total to 127. I am sure this list will grow in 2017. In the true tradition of the FDNY, the NYPD and the PAPD, they have not forgotten their own, who continue to succumb to 9/11 related illnesses. We must never forget all of our first responders, emergency responders, recovery and cleanup workers, and volunteers who helped in the aftermath of the attacks on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and the crash site near Shanksville, Pennsylvania. Never forget the survivors who lived, worked or went to school near the World Trade Center on September 11 or in the subsequent months.
Records show that the total number of all 9/11 responders, including firefighters, who have been diagnosed with WTC-linked cancers now exceeds 5,100. I read that Dr. Raja Flores, Chief of Thoracic Surgery at Mount Sinai Medical Center, one of seven sites affiliated with the WTC Health Program, insists that researchers are just scratching the surface with these findings. Dr Flores reminds us that there’s no doubt that we will see a sharp increase in 9/11-related cancers over the next 30 years. Sadly, the real mass of 9/11-related cancer deaths is probably yet to come. Remember, never forget. Stay vigilant and continue to monitor the aftermath of 9/11. Dennis
Announcements ‘HONORS’ IS THE BURN FOUNDATION IMAGE FOR 2017
For the third year, Cinnaminson Fire Chief William Kramer, Jr., and members of the Cinnaminson and Pennsauken Fire Departments and EMTs have assisted artist Joseph M. Getsinger with a photoshoot for this year’s creation, “Honors.” A member of the Cinnaminson Police Department, Officer Thomas Lilligore was also a part of the shoot. Many years ago, when Joe Getsinger was an Arson Investigator with the New Jersey State Police, he worked with the officer’s father, Detective Thomas Lilligore. This was an honor for Joe, not only to add a police officer to the painting, but the son of a well-known and respected detective he had worked with on many cases. For the 17th year, David Russell, President of Fire and Safety Services, Ltd. (200 Ryan St., So Plainfield, NJ 800-400-8017; www.fss.com), a longtime supporter of the Burn Foundation and the artist, again gave his full financial support to this project. Fire and Safety Services, Ltd., is a dealer and distributor of Pierce Manufacturing apparatus, all of which were utilized in this photo shoot. In the past 37 years, the artist has created many paintings to support burn victims and survivors for the Burn Foundation. This year a Deptford Firefighter and piper, Captain Ronald R. Taylor, Jr., came up with an idea to utilize a bagpiper in the scene while attending the Wildwood Fireman's Convention in
September. Joe immediately thought the idea was great and the idea rolled around until he came up with this scene. Chip Lillie of Choice Marketing created and donated fine collector cards of this year’s image as they have done for many years in support of the Burn Foundation.. Visit the Burn Foundation Booth in the vendor’s area of the Fireman’s Convention on Friday or Saturday, get a raffle ticket, buy this year’s Collector Pin, pick up a Collector Card, see the first prize Giclee canvas print displayed there, meet members of the Burn Foundation, volunteers and the talk with the artist who will be there supporting the fundraiser. You can also visit, support, volunteer or donate funds directly to the Burn Foundation at: Burn Foundation - 8600 West Chester Pike, Suite 202, Upper Darby, Pennsylvania 19082.
Phone: 215-545- 3816; Fax: 215-545- 3818; info@ burnfoundation.org. The artist has also created a new and improved website where you can not only see all the up to date fire art available, but other of the many creations and prints available by Joseph M. Getsinger at: www. jgetsingerarts.com In addition he has added other artists works he represents or has acquired to sell.
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Cover Story
Dubois Avenue Blaze
The volunteer fire companies of Farmington and Cardiff were dispatched early on July 2, 2017, to Dubois Avenue for a fully involved structure fire. Cardiff AC Gilbert Zonge arrived and requested a second alarm bringing the remaining EHT companies of Bargaintown, Scullville, and West Atlantic City, City of Northfield, and City of Pleasantville. Multiple lines were required to the Cardiff Tower that positioned itself in the front of the building. Once towers began operations, all firefighters were removed from the fire ground while the tower blitzed the fire. The tower poured water onto the fire for over an hour and used its monitor to knock apart the structure. Also responding were: EHT Ambulance, TriCare EMS, Cardiff Ladies Auxiliary, Atlantic City Electric Company, Atlantic County Fire Marshall, South Jersey Gas Company. - Fire News photos by Ken Badger
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Caldwell Electrical Fire On May 30, 2017, the Caldwell Fire Department responded to the Fresco Restaurant on Bloomfield Avenue for an electrical fire on the second floor. Caldwell police units advised of fire and smoke throughout the second floor. Quint 525 made entry into the structure, finding a minor electrical fire on the second floor, which they were able to contain. Tower 526 and the West Essex First Aid Squad also responded. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
Quick Work at Nutley Fire On June 7, 2017, a Nutley police officer on patrol noticed smoke coming from a home on Park Avenue. Engine 1 and Ladder 1 arrived and struck a second alarm. Due to the quick work of Tour 2, the fire was contained to the room of origin. Bloomfield, Lyndhurst and Montclair covered. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
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2-for-1 in Mays Landing
The volunteer fire companies of Cologne, Laureldale and Mays Landing, along with the Cardiff Volunteer Fire Company Station 2, were dispatched early in the morning on June 3, 2017, to the Inland Estates Mobile Home Park on Black Horse Pike for a report of a structure fire. Firefighters arrived to find smoke in a mobile home and upon investigating, discovered an aquarium containing a snake, which had a heat lamp which ignited the snake’s bedding. Firefighters removed the aquarium to the exterior and were ventilating the original trailer when a firefighter looked down the street and noticed another mobile home located two trailers away had smoke coming from it. Firefighters immediately went to that location and had to rouse the sleeping occupant and open walls in the kitchen area where they discovered flames from a faulty receptacle. Firefighters extinguished the fire, overhauled, and vented. - Fire News photos by Ken Badger
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Car Fire in Wayne On June 15, 2017, Wayne Fire Companies 1 and 2 were dispatched to the Wendy’s on Route 46 for a car fire. Companies were advised that police on scene had emptied their extinguishers and the fire was not contained. Upon arrival, a four-door sedan was found well involved and Engine 2-2 stretched on it. Engine 1-1 arrived shortly after and assisted with overhaul. - Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
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Hamilton Mall Call
EHT Structure Fire
The volunteer fire companies of Cologne, Laureldale and Mays Landing responded to the J.C. Penny Store at the Hamilton Mall on Black Horse Pike on May 5, 2017, for a smell of smoke and a haze in a stockroom. The area of the stockroom, the HVAC room, and the roof was searched and nothing was found. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
On June 3, 2017, the volunteer fire companies of Scullville and Bargaintown responded to a structure fire on Hartford Drive in the township’s Scullville section. Bargaintown Chief Eugene Sharpe arrived and requested a FAST from the City of Somers Point. Scullville Chief Steven Prisament established command for a fire in a two-story, wood frame single-family dwelling with smoke showing. Crews pulled an attack line and proceeded in to find the seat of the fire. Firefighters found a fire in a utility room, which was quickly brought under control. Also responding were Egg Harbor Township Ambulance, EHT Police and EHT Fire Police. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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Car Into Building On June 3, 2017, Mays Landing Chief Lou DiMartine came upon an MVA at the intersection of Main Street and Cape May Avenue and requested a response of Station 18-1 for a vehicle into a building. DiMartine established command and had the crew of Engine 1812 cut the battery of a pickup truck still in the intersection and use extrication tools to open the hood of the vehicle that struck the building. This proved fruitless, so firefighters entered the building to access the vehicle’s battery because the vehicle was protruding that far into the store. One person was treated by Township of Hamilton EMS and transported. The cause of the crash was under investigation by the Township of Hamilton EMS. - Fire News photos by Ken Badger
NJEPA Notes
Help Me Help You
Responders spend 365/24/7 preparing for the worst — hurricanes, floods, tornadoes — but sometimes we forget that some of the population we serve have disabilities or access and functional needs that require a specialized plan. The most important factor to taking care of this very diverse population is to make sure that they are ready for emergencies. It’s up to us to remind them to prepare to make our jobs easier. While each firehouse may have their own registries, there is more you can do to help this special class of citizen. Sure, your station’s system works just fine, but Register Ready should be your main registry. What if your system goes down? It is important that the state know the population they are serving for statewide preparedness. Encourage special needs citizens and their caretakers to use the NJ Special Needs Registry at www.registerready.nj.gov. This is a preparedness tool — not a response tool — designed to help emergency responders locate and safely evacuate people who could find it difficult to help themselves in the event of a major disaster. The registry is free, voluntary and confidential. Another important consideration is your alert system when advisories, warnings and evacuations are ordered and cease. Are those who are disabled getting alerts in a format beneficial to them such as TDD? A deaf person will not hear a firetruck combing neighborhoods. Reverse 911 alerts and social media are other essential tools useful to those with disabilities or access and functional needs. ALWAYS encourage disability, access and functional needs citizens and caretakers to follow and like Ready NJ’s social media sites: Facebook: www.facebook.com/ReadyNewJersey Twitter: www.twitter.com/ReadyNJ Instagram: www.instagram.com/ReadyNJ YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/ReadyNJ According to Kelly Boyd, Access and Functional Needs Planner at
the Preparedness Bureau/Emergency Management Section of the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management, one of the best practices was that of Shamong Township OEM staff before and after Hurricane Hermine. Before the storm, they knocked on the doors of those in the registry to be sure the special needs residents were prepared. But they didn’t stop there; they checked on them after the storm as well. The personalized visits gave first responders a chance to understand their individual needs should they be called on for rescue. Ideally, this type of relationship is established well ahead of an emergency so that responders understand individual needs. Don’t assume each label comes with the same circumstances; they all vary in nature. Instead, get to know them and help them plan what they need to evacuate or sustain themselves during an event. Just like all emergencies, think of the total care of this population — the before, during and after of an emergency. Other ways for citizens to register include the toll-free number 211. They may also call their county Office of Emergency Management or mail in a downloadable registry form. Register Ready has literature online for first responders to share with the public. If your firehouse needs more information, contact Laura A. Connolly, MBA, MPS, Homeland Security Public Information Officer with the New Jersey State Police Emergency Management Section at 609-462-6925 or lppconnl@gw.njsp.org.
“One of the best practices was that of Shamong Township OEM staff before and after Hurricane Hermine.”
NJEPA is a not-for-profit organization that is about to host its 20th annual New Jersey Emergency Preparedness Conference for all persons and agencies involved in the emergency management field. The annual conference provides training, coordination, and promotes the development of public and private partnerships in planning, response, recovery and mitigation in all types of emergencies.
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Paterson Vacant House Fire
On May 23, 2017, the Paterson Fire Department responded to stretched handlines and set up multiple ladder pipes in attempt to - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti Presidential Boulevard for a heavily involved vacant structure fire knock down the heavy fire at which fire had extended to the B exposure. Companies quickly
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Laureldale Car Fire
The Laureldale Volunteer Fire Company responded to Route 50 engine stretch a line onto the fire, which involved the motor and - Fire News photo by Ken Badger and Cedar Avenue on April 22, 2017, for a motor vehicle fire. Chief interior of the vehicle. Chris Tilley arrived and established command and had the first-due
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Estell Manor Marsh Fire
The Mizpah observation tower of the New Jersey Forest Fire Service observed smoke in the vicinity of the Egg Harbor River in Estell Manor on April 14, 2017, and dispatched Charlie 1 (aircraft) from the Downstown Airport under the control of Pilot Ed Carter and unit C-5 (Section Warden Ashley House). While en route they received a cross reading from another observation tower and all ground units responded to Thompson Marine in Egg Harbor Township, while C-35 (District Warden Dan Collins) responded to
Gibson Creek Wildlife Management Area in Estell Manor. District Warden Collins proceeded by foot to the edge of the Egg Harbor River and discovered part of a floating dock and one acre of salt marsh on fire. Section Warden House requested Marine 3, the Scullville fireboat which, upon arrival, pulled a handline and assisted with extinguishing the fire. The cause of the fire was under investigation by the New Jersey Forest Fire Service. - Fire News photos by Ken Badger
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Dumpster Fire Stopped On May 4, 2017, the Clifton Fire Department responded to Brookwood Road for a reported dumpster fire. Truck 2 arrived shortly before Engine 6 to find a fully involved dumpster fire next to a home. A line was stretched and firefighters started to clear the debris. Upon further investigation, members noticed the siding of the home was charred and had heat damage. Siding was removed to check for extension. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
Verona House Fire On May 2, 2017, the Verona Fire Department responded to Hillcrest Terrace for a structure fire. Verona Police advised of a working fire and officers made entry and rescued a victim from division 2. Companies arrived to heavy smoke showing from a division 2 window and stretched an attack line and made entry. Mutual aid came from Cedar Grove, North Caldwell and Montclair. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
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Well, That Wasn’t Easy The Farmington Volunteer Fire Company responded to the A.E. Stone Asphalt Company on Doughty Road. Farmington Assistant Chief Harry Goodman arrived and reported smoke showing from a structure that houses an asphalt ‘scrubber.’ Goodman requested Tower 15 from Cardiff and had first-due Farmington Engine 1543 come into the complex and set up to supply the tower while a second-due Farmington engine took a hydrant just outside the fence of the complex. Firefighters hand-dragged 300 feet of five-inch hose through the fence to E 1543, supplying the tower, which extinguished the fire in approximately 30 minutes. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Mall Electrical Fire On May 18, 2017, the volunteer fire companies of Cologne and Laureldale were dispatched to the Hamilton Mall on Black Horse Pike for a fire alarm activation. Dispatch received a call from police who reported smoke in the building, upon which the call was upgraded by adding Mays Landing. Laureldale Chief Chris Tilley advised dispatch of smoke showing from the central plant electric room. Command had Cologne Tower 18 investigate. They reported that mall personnel had discharged dry powder extinguishers into the switch gear panel. Upon hearing this report, command requested a response from the Atlantic City Electric Company. Also responding were Cardiff, Township of Hamilton EMS and police, and Atlantic City Electric Company. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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Mays Landing MVA The Mays Landing Volunteer Fire Company responded to Harding Highway and 32nd Street for a report of wires down on June 4, 2017. Mays Landing Chief Lou DiMartine established command and had Engine 1812’s crew cut the battery cables of a vehicle that left the highway and struck a traffic light post, a signaling device, and came to rest after traveling through a block wall of a cemetery. The occupant was treated by Township of Hamilton EMS and then transported to the hospital. - Fire News photos by Ken Badger
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Woodcliff Lake Gets New Rescue
On June 11, 2017, the Woodcliff Lake Fire Department celebrated the newest addition to their fleet, a 2017 Pierce Enforcer Rescue Engine, designated Squad 7. This piece replaces an aging 1990 Pierce Lance Pumper, which is currently on loan to the Maywood Fire Department. Many departments attended, and fun was had by all. - Fire News photos by J.P. Fortunato
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Patcong Bridge Car Fire
The volunteer fire companies of Bargaintown and Scullville ment. Scullville Engine 1532 arrived and stretched a line and began responded to Ocean Heights Avenue on top of the Patcong Creek extinguishment. The fire was knocked down quickly and firefightBridge on June 26, 2017, for a report of a vehicle fire. Scullville ers stood by until the vehicle was removed from the scene. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger Assistant Chief Vernon Cruz arrived and reported a fully involved engine compartment with extension into the passenger compart-
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Fatality at Quarry SAR Operation
The Mays Landing Volunteer Fire Company was dispatched on June 12, 2017, to Thelma Avenue at a quarry for a water rescue assignment. The Mays Landing Dive Rescue Team, under the command of Chief Glen Hausman, had already been dispatched. The site has been abandoned for several years, was fenced off, but frequented by trespassers, swimming there illegally in approximately 40 feet of water. Upon arrival, Dive Chief Hausman requested Mays Landing for their cascade unit, Richland and Collings Lakes for their boats, and the City of Brigatine for their dive team, and the US Coast Guard for a helicopter. A unified command was established with Mays Landing Chief Lou DiMartine in command for the fire department, Dive Chief Hausman for the water rescue, Hamilton Township Detective Michael Roebeson for EMS and police. Rescuers searched for several hours before recovering the 23-year-old victim. - Fire News photos by Ken Badger
Fall Victim ID’d as Paterson Firefighter On the morning of June 26, 2017, the Cedar Grove Fire Department responded to Mills Reservation for a subject that had fallen 30 feet down a cliff and was unresponsive. Essex County Sheriffs also responded. Shortly after, a special request was put in for Newark’s USAR team to respond for a rope rescue. Despite best efforts of the units, the victim’s injuries were fatal. The victim was later identified as Kerry Rivera, a 13-year member of the Paterson Fire Department. Rivera was on a bike ride through the reservation with his brother when the incident occurred. Montclair Fire and Volunteer ambulance unit assisted on scene with Atlantic Medics and UMDNJ Hospital EMS Rescue. - Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
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Victoria Dennison of the Lambertville-New Hope Ambulance & Rescue Squad
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Jennifer Germinario of the Lyndhurst Police Emergency Squad
Shannon Kuehm of the Wayne Township Memorial First Aid Squad
Emily Davis of the Colts Neck First Aid
EMSCNJ Scholarships for 2017 The EMS Council of New Jersey (EMSCNJ) has awarded scholarships to young EMS volunteers. In the August issue of Fire News space allowed us to show some of the winners. These are the four winners not shown. We thought it important to ensure all received the proper recognition for their achievement. Winners of the 2017 Cadet Scholarship are: Andrew Belanger (right, Keyport First Aid Squad); Emily Davis (Colts Neck First Aid); Victorian Dennison (left, Lambertville-New Hope Ambulance and Rescue Squad); Sara Dorrothy (Milton First Aid Squad); Brendan
Erickson (Sparta Ambulance Squad); Shannon Kuehm (second from right, Wayne Township Memorial First Aid Squad); Jake Lepore (Sparta Ambulance Squad); Andrew Lopuch (Sparta Ambulance Squad); David Lugara (Scotch Plains Rescue Squad); Bret Pine (Keyport First Aid Squad); Kaitlyn Rainey (Dumont Volunteer Ambulance Corps). Winners of the 2017 Gail Lawrence Memorial Scholarship are: Karolyn Buckridee (Scotch Plains Rescue Squad, Fanwood Rescue Squad); Brian Dowing (Scotch Plains Rescue Squad, Fanwood Rescue Squad, Ocean
Grove First Aid Squad); Jennifer Germinario (second from left, Lyndhurst Police Emergency Squad); Kaitlyn Oldewurtel (Dumont Volunteer Ambulance Corps); Evan H. Schulz (Cranford First Aid Squad). The Gail Lawrence Memorial Scholarship is awarded to EMSCNJ-affiliated volunteers earning advanced degrees in any medical field. The $1,000 grant was established in memory of Lawrence, a mobile intensive care nurse, advanced practice nurse and educator with Rutgers University. - Fire News photos by Sylvie Mulvaney/EMSCNJ
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Looking Back The Pomona Volunteer Fire Company from Galloway Township in Atlantic County from the “Golden Age.” A Super WaWa now sits where the station once stood. - Fire News photo from the Dennis C. Sharpe Collection
Farmington Volunteer Fire Company’s GMC/ John Bean high-pressure pumper from the early 1960s. This was replaced in 1966 with another GMC/John Bean, and joined in 1971 with another Bean pumper. - Fire News photo by Whitey Swartz from the Dennis C. Sharpe Collection
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Hillsborough Wetdown
On June 10, 2017, the Hillsborough Fire Company 1 of the Flagtown Fire Department held a wetdown and dedication ceremony for their new 2017 KME Predator 2250/750/50 Engine. Companies from across Somerset County came out to participate in the ceremony for the new Engine 36, which featured live music, food and a blessing by a local priest. - Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
North Brunswick New Apparatus
On June 3, 2017, the North Brunswick Volunteer Fire Company #2 for a water fight, along with dedication and presentation of awards hosted a dual housing for their new Seagrave Engine and Seagrave from judging. Congratulations to North Brunswick Volunteer Fire Tower. Numerous local companies attended the event that started Company #2 on their new apparatus. - Fire News photos by Mike Nowacki off with judging of apparatus, followed by a parade through town. All participating companies were invited back to the wetdown area
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FHEXPO17: ENHANCING YOUR EDUCATION Firehouse Expo 2017 offers more workshops than ever before, including 10 pre-conference workshops, a full two days of community risk reduction, and four new exciting hybrid workshops combining intense classroom instruction with high-impact hands-on training. The main conference is also action-packed, including more than 140 educational and marquee sessions featuring high-profile events and some of the most critical topics in the American fire service with the most one-on-one, student-focused instruction of any national conference. The exceptional lineup of educational programs covers a variety of topics that are critical to your day-to-day operations and your long-term growth in the fire service. Tactics-focused sessions are designed to enhance your incident scene skill sets, while strategy- and leadership-focused sessions will help develop your decision-making, personnel management and general fire station or department operations. “Firehouse is excited to be back in Nashville for our second year, and this conference promises to be even more action-packed than last year,” said Firehouse Editor-in-Chief Tim Sendelbach. “Each class is designed and focused on making sure you get the attention you need to learn and apply the skills you learn at Firehouse Expo.”
Pre-Conference Sessions Tuesday, Oct. 17 & Wednesday, Oct. 18 As part of its pre-conference lineup, Firehouse offers a variety of exciting educational sessions, including those focused on WUI command, fire research, leadership, first-due strategic responsibilities, tactical resiliency and more. Also included in the pre-conference programming is Firehouse’s Community Risk Reduction program. Presented in partnership with the National Fire Sprinkler Association (NFSA), this program focuses on improving the firefighters’ work environment, working with code officers to create a safer community and more. Main Conference Sessions Thursday, Oct. 19-Saturday, Oct. 21 Don’t miss Expo sessions focused on forcible entry, rapid-intervention teams, mayday events, survival skills, wind-impacted fires, building live-fire training props, hazmat operations, railroad incidents, fire prevention, diversity issues, PTSD and stress management, initial attack line skills, developing a healthy and fit firehouse culture, tower rescues, social media policies, search and rescue, managing staffing limitations and much more. To learn more and register, visit firehouseexpo.com.
HONORING OUR FALLEN FIREFIGHTERS
Register for the 3rd Annual National Stair Climb for Fallen Firefighters at Belmont Park • Can’t be in New York? Join in the virtual climb! • The event will take place on Sunday, October 1, 2017, at Learn more at www.nationalstairclimb.org Belmont Park. Register in advance at www.nationalstairclimb.org. • Proceeds benefit FDNY Counseling Services Unit (CSU) • Fees: $35 for the Climb. $50 for the Climb and After Party. and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) $50 for Climb Supporters and After Party floors in the Twin Towers. All climbers will receive a t-shirt and On October 1, 2017, join hundreds of other firefighters in New a name badge for the firefighter they are honoring. York to honor the fallen at the 3rd Annual National Stair The stair climb is a family event and we encourage Climb for Fallen Firefighters at Belmont Park. you to bring your spouses, children, family and “The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation perfriends. An After-Climb Party and Races will begin at forms extraordinary work providing resources for the 1130, featuring a BBQ buffet and unlimited draft beer families of fallen heroes across the country,” said Fire and soda. There will also be bounce castles, pony Commissioner Daniel A. Nigro. “By climbing steps rides and fun for the entire family. In addition, the each year, every participant not only raises funds to New York Racing Association will raffle two 2018 support the families of FDNY members who made the Belmont Stakes Day reserved seats valued at $200 each, Supreme Sacrifice, they also ensure those we have lost and will assign a minimum of five race names for the FDNY are never forgotten.” to use to honor their fallen. For more information and to register, Gates open and on-site registration begins at 0830. Firefighters will climb the equivalent of 110 stories to symbolize the number of go to www.nationalstairclimb.org.
FDSOA APPARATUS SYMPOSIUM CELEBRATES 30TH ANNIVERSARY The Fire Department Safety Officers Association (FDSOA) Annual Apparatus Maintenance and Specification Symposium will celebrate its 30th Anniversary January 15-17, 2018, in Scottsdale, Arizona. The first symposium was created after a series of meetings initiated by the International Association of Fire Chiefs’ staff, fire chiefs, several state mechanics’ associations and the Fire Apparatus Manufacturers Association to address issues concerning apparatus, maintenance and maintenance personnel. I n 1 9 8 8 , the f ir st Appa r a tus Maintenance and Specification Symposium was held in Fort Worth, Texas, through the efforts of Fire Chief Larry McMillen, Fort Worth Fire Department, Bob Barraclough, Span Instruments, and Mary McCormack, International Society of Fire Service Instructors (ISFSI). In 1989, after the Fire Department Safety Officers Association (FDSOA) was established as a subsidiary of the ISFSI, the Apparatus Symposium was moved to a hotel on Sandlake Road in Orlando, Florida. The symposium was designed to be educational and limited
to table tops, not exhibits. Topics covered a range from preventive maintenance efforts to issues of liability and new safety standards. As the conference grew, it moved to the Rosen Plaza hotel on International Drive. In 2013, the FDSOA headquarters were moved from Massachusetts to Michigan, and the Apparatus Symposium and the annual Safety Forum are co-located and held the same week, alternating between Orlando and Scottsdale, AZ. “Thirty years is a major accomplishment to sustain a very unique conference,” said Rich Marinucci, executive director for FDSOA. “Fire apparatus has changed significantly over the past thirty years and most importantly, the focus on safer apparatus for fire and EMS personnel. FDSOA is proud to continue to support improvements and education in safety.” T h e 3 0 t h F D S O A A n n u a l Apparatus Maintenance and Specification Symposium will feature keynote speakers: Brad Pinsky, attorney and fire chief; Garry Briese, executive director, Colorado State Fire Chiefs; and Chief Bruce Varner (ret.). For further details: Rich Marinucci, e-mail: fdsoa@fdsoa.org.
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Fire News, September 2017, Page 33
Mock Crash Scenario at EHT High
On May 11, 2017, the five volunteer fire companies of the Egg Harbor Township Fire Department demonstrated to Egg Harbor Township High School students what the consequences of distracted driving, buzzed driving, and driving under the influence are as they performed a mock crash scenario. The event involved a car crash with occupants trapped and requiring extrication by the fire department and EMS. The students also watched the person who was responsible for the
crash undergo a screening by the EHT Police and being arrested. The driver’s passenger was pronounced on scene and transported into the care of the Southern Regional Medical Examiner’s Office. Passengers of a second vehicle were extricated with the driver being placed on a backboard by EMS. Assisting in the demonstration was Adams-Perfect Funeral Home, Medical Examiners Laura Rue and Caroline Pryor and AtlantiCare paramedics. - Fire News photos by Ken Badger
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Remembering the Hackensack 5
July 1, 2017 was the 29th anniversary of the saddest day in the city of Hackensack when five firefighters lost their lives while battling a fire and searching for victims in the garage area of a Hackensack Ford dealership. Firefighters from the city of Hackensack and surrounding communities came to pay their respects to their brothers killed on that day. The remembrance service for those five brave men has grown every passing year, as more and more city residents have come out to show their support. - Fire News photos by Chris ‘Doc’ Denton
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Fire News, September 2017, Page 35
Car Into House The volunteer fire companies of Bargaintown and Scullville responded on July 25, 2017, to Renee Drive for an MVA in which a vehicle involved in a crash with another vehicle, lost control, drove off the road, and struck a home causing serious damage. Scullville Chief Steven Prisament arrived and cancelled Scullville’s apparatus. Bargaintown Chief Eugene Sharpe arrived and established command and had the first-due Bargaintown apparatus, Rescue 1527, cut the battery cable. A building inspector from the Egg Harbor Township Construction Office arrived on location to inspect the home’s damage. The crash was under investigation by the EHT Police. - Fire News photos by Ken Badger
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Cardiff 2-Car MVA The Cardiff Volunteer Fire Company responded to the intersection of Ridge and West Jersey Avenues for a report of an MVA with entrapment on June 10, 2017. Cardiff Chief Steven Sear arrived to find two vehicles in the intersection with one vehicle coming to rest under a guardrail, trapping its occupant. A medevac was requested, then cancelled. Upon extricating the occupant, the victims of both vehicles were treated by the EHT EMS at the scene and transported to the Atlanticare Regional Medical Center, City Campus. - Fire News photos by Ken Badger
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Mount Olive Honors the Detoros
It's tough being married to a firefighter, which would make it a real challenge when both halves are part of the fire department. Mount Olive Township Tuesday night recognized such a couple who, together, have given almost of a century of service to the Flanders Fire Company #1 and Rescue Squad. Fred Detoro, Sr., the second of three generations of Flanders firefighters, and his wife, Catherine, were honored by the Town Council at its regular meeting. Mayor Rob Greenbaum praised the Detoros and presented each with a plaque honoring their service. Detoro joined the fire company in 1964. Although Mrs. Detoro joined the Ladies Auxiliary the same year, she didn’t become a regular member until 1972. Both Detoros were a little overwhelmed with the attention. “Everyone deserves one of these,” said Mrs. Detoro, nodding to all the uniformed Mount Olive firefighters in the council chambers. The Flanders Fire Company is a Detoro family tradition. Detoro’s dad was chief of the department from 1956 through 1957. Detoro served as a firefighter, as Mount Olive's first fire marshal and as president of the fire company. His son, Fred Jr., also served as chief of the department. He is currently the town’s fire marshal and the president of the association. Mrs. Detoro was a member of the Ladies Auxiliary, a dispatcher and a captain of the Rescue Squad. “They are both invaluable assets to our department,” said current Fire Chief Tyler Wargo. “Both are mentors and leaders. Fred is a true definition of a firefighter. The Detoros are staples of the township.” Over the years, the two have responded to hundreds of calls, but the two had no question about which call they remember most vividly. The call began on March 28, 1973, when a tornado tore through the Clover Hill subdivision, injuring 12 people. Mrs. Detoro also remembers the first baby she delivered. The baby was Brian Dolan. When he grew to the appropriate age, he joined the fire company and eventually served as Captain of the Rescue Squad. The pair has seen other changes over the years. Detoro remembers years ago when he and another firefighter each grabbed a truck to go to a fire near the firehouse. The two of them pulled off a hose and attacked the fire, waiting for other firefighters to arrive. Today, trucks roll with full, well-equipped, well-trained crews. “It’s all the young people,” said Mrs. Detoro. “I hope they stick with it.” She notes another important change. Fire officers came to Mrs. Detoro and other members of the auxiliary in 1972. The fire company was having trouble staffing the ambulance, so the officers asked the auxiliary members to train as first aiders. “Eleven of us started,” she recalled. “Three of us completed the training. We learned how to bandage wounds on an instructor’s great Dane.” Women, however, still weren’t allowed in meetings. Even as captain, she still couldn’t participate in meetings. She had to have her captain’s report delivered by a male member. Today, the Flanders Fire Company has several female firefighters and women serve in several key roles in the department. - Fire News photo by Doug Fenichel
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Lightning Strike Starts Roof Fire
The volunteer fire companies of Scullville and Bargaintown responded on July 19, 2017, to Otter Lane in Beaver Estates for a report of a structure struck by lightning. Scullville Chief Steve Prisament arrived and established command and the crew stretched two lines. Bargaintown Chief Eugene Sharpe had Bargaintown Tanker 1528, back in and standby as Scullville Tanker
1538 arrived moments earlier and fed Scullville Ladder 1538. Firefighters searched the interior and found that lightning struck the roof of the home, blowing a hole in it. Firefighters stretched one line to the roof where the fire was extinguished while firefighters in the attic assisted. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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Well, That Could Have Been Worse The volunteer fire companies of Cardiff and Bargaintown, along with EHT Ambulance and EHT Police responded on June 16, 2017, to Tremont Avenue for a report of an MVA involving a school bus. Cardiff Assistant Chief Gilbert Zonge arrived and established command, and Egg Harbor Township Chief Rob Winkler arrived to find an EHT school bus off the roadway alongside a single-family dwelling, which had struck two 250-pound propane tanks. Command had first-due Cardiff Engine 1516 pull a preconnect to the D side of the dwelling so the tanks could be secured. Upon the arrival of Bargaintown Tender 1528, they supplied Engine 1516. Command then requested a response from the Atlantic County Hazmat Team. Once the propane was secured, command had fans brought to the rear of the dwelling to ventilate the crawl space. Firefighters then stood by until the school bus was removed. - Fire News photos by Ken Badger
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Stirling Firefighters Graduate Advanced Firefighter Course Five Stirling Volunteer Fire Company firefighters graduated on July 13, 2017, from the very difficult and challenging Firefighter II course that was conducted at the Somerset County Fire Academy. They are Justin Alto, Antonio Centurion, Chris Hoffman, Alex Honegger, and Matt Rozmerski. After the graduation ceremony they were honored by their brother firefighters and family members at the Stirling firehouse where they heard brief remarks by Stirling Fire Chief Kevin Phillips. It was the largest number of firefighters ever to graduate from Firefighter II in one class in Long Hill Township. Usually only one or two complete this training. - Fire News photo provided
Farmington Ladies Event a Growing Hit The Ladies Auxiliary of the Farmington Volunteer Fire Company sponsored another Pallet Painting night at the Charles Maxwell Hall on July 8, 2017, with attendance double from the first event. The ladies will be sponsoring “Designer Bag Bingo” on August 19, 2017. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Up Close Lumberton (Burlington County) Fire Marshal Pat Bigoss with a 2015 Ford Explorer. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Honor Flight The annual Honor Flight to Washington, DC, was held on June 3, 2017, which is an effort to offer all U.S. Veterans a trip, free of charge to our nation’s capitol to visit the Air Force, Iwo Jima, Korean War, Vietnam, and World War II memorials. Seven veterans and a dozen chaperones from South Jersey departed the Northfield Community School and were joined by four others in Mays Landing for the trip. They returned with a police escort, and Northfield fire apparatus, students, and parents cheering and waving signs. While in Washington, former Senator Bob Dole, himself a veteran, joined the group at the World War II monument to show his support. Funding for the nationwide program comes from donations, bakes sales, and car washes. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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Fire News, September 2017, Page 41
Ah, the Glamour of Firefighting! One June 25, 2017, Stations 42, 43 and EMS Squad 34 were dispatched to Route 35 South at the foot of the Brielle Bridge for an MVA requiring a cleanup. Rescue 4303 and Engine 4211 responded to clean up a minor fuel spill while Ambulance 344 responded and took an RMA. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
Cardiff MVA The Cardiff Volunteer Fire Department responded to Pine Avenue, between Dogwood and Ocean Heights Avenue on June 24, 2017, for a report of an MVA with entrapment. Cardiff Assistant Chief Gilbert Zonge arrived to find a single-vehicle crash with the driver trapped by downed power lines across the vehicle. Command requested an expeditious response from the Atlantic City Electric Company to de-energize the power lines. The electric company arrived quickly, and once the power was discontinued, the person, who was inside the vehicle with a dog, was quickly removed and transported from the scene. Also responding were EHT ambulance and fire police. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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Somers Point Basement Fire
The City of Somers Point Volunteer Fire Department responded to West Dawes Avenue on June 25, 2017, for a structure fire. Chief of Department Michael Sweeny arrived to smoke showing from the A side of a single-story wood frame dwelling with a basement. Command requested a second alarm bringing RIT from the City of Northfield, a ladder from Scullville and an engine from Bargaintown for cover. Upon arrival, command had crews stretch a line into the front door and one line to the C side with crews making their way to find the seat of the fire, which was located in the basement. After some effort, the fire was brought under control and the fire was ventilated and overhauled. Also responding were Tri-Care EMS, Atlanticare Paramedics, Somers Point Police, Somers Point Fire Ladies Auxiliary and Atlantic City Electric Company. - Fire News photos by Ken Badger
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