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Fire News, June 2019, Page 3
In this issue... Exposure Saved in Haledon A second-alarm blaze spreads throughout a house, but crews save the Bravo exposure. See story on page 10
Marcal Yet Again For the third time in 50 days Elmwood and surrounding area companies respond to the Marcal Paper site. See story on page 12
1 Person Injured at Hackensack Blaze One woman is transported for smoke inhalation during a Shafer Place house fire. See story on page 24
But How Did They Get It In There? Mays Landing, Laureldale and Cologne handle a dryer fire in very cramped quarters. See story on page 28
A Service for New Jersey Firefighters and EMS Heroes 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713 FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher TIM EDWARDS, Executive Editor DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor GARY P. JOYCE, Asst. Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production/Sales LYNN SEDLER, Art Director CLIFF CHIESA, Production Manager Advertising Sales: BARBARA CONNOLLY Graphic Artist: GREGORY JONES FIRE NEWS NEW JERSEY PHOTOGRAPHERS Chad Aaronson, John Axford, Keith Addie, Adam Alberti, Ted Aurig, Kenneth E.Badger, Dick Berry, Tommy Bilancia, Thomas Bischoff, James Bonner, Joseph Brecko, John Buttino, Bob Chester, John Clark, Alex Coulter, Carl Crossman, Damien Davis, Chris Denton, Alan Dumoff, Brian Duddy, Brett M. Dzadik, Dan Eckert, Doug Fenichel, Tom Finnegan, Joe Fortunato, Liam Glinane, Israel Goldstein, Thomas Hayden Jr., David Hernandez, Robert Halberstadt, Roman Izaryk, Erica Jacoby, Jeffrey Konya, Kevin Maloney, Robert Munson, Paul Newborn, Robert F. Newkirk, Denis Niland, Mike Nowacki, Elvin Padilla, Ed Pinkevicz, Dane Policastro, Michael Ratcliffe, Joe Repici, Paul Rodriquez, Mark Rosetti, Chris Saraceno, Robert Scollan, Dennis C. Sharpe, Steve Sperlak, Steve Skipton, Matt Spadaro, Danielle Tagerty, Tim Sullivan, Robert Tallaksen, Wayne Tasaki, Giuseppe Tartaglia, Jim Trepeos, Gregory Taylor, Ron Trout, Ken VanPelt, Kevin Umbach, Jose Vazquez, Ronnie Viola, Tom Vogel, Tom Walker, Mike Wallace, Chris Whitam, Wells P. Wilson, Gerald Wyhopen, Jr., Peter Danzo. Columnists: Bruce Johnson, John Salka, Billy Goldfeder. COPYRIGHT 2019, THE FIRE NEWS LLC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Another Meatball Sub Sellout Featuring over 3000 handmade meatballs, the Cardiff Ladies Auxiliary holds another sub sale sellout. See story on page 31
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Up Close and Personal A closer look at first responders from around the state. See story on pages 32 to 34
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 4 Special Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 28 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 30 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 32 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 32
Official Publication
of the NJ State Firemen’s Convention Letters to the Editor, byline articles, and columns represent the opinions of the writers and photographers and are not necessarily the views of the Fire News. We reserve the right to edit all of the above. We are not responsible for errors in advertisements beyond the cost of advertising space. Copy submitted is subject to editing for space requirements. The placing of an advertisement in this publication does not constitute endorsement. Contents are copyrighted. Editorial and advertising copy cannot be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Fire News is published monthly by Fire News LLC, with corporate offices at 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713.
Page 4, Fire News, June 2019
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
Are We In Changing Times? The volunteer fire service dates back to January 27, 1678, when the first fire engine company went into service. In 1736, Benjamin Franklin established the Union Fire Company in Philadelphia. As cities grew, so did the need for a fire service that could respond quickly and was available 24 hours a day. When I moved to Long Island, I lived in an area that was just starting to develop. People from NYC were moving to the suburbs for a quieter and affordable lifestyle. In my case, it wasn’t long before I received a visit from some of my neighbors who were members of my local fire department. They asked me to give thought to joining the fire department. Proudly, I joined my local department and trained diligently so I could hold my own at calls. As the years flew by and my community grew, I soon noticed that the number of volunteers were declining. How do you maintain a strong recruitment program? In my early years there was a waiting list to join the fire department. Today, times are different and the problems of maintaining a well-staffed and active volunteer
fire service require monitoring by the commissioners and chiefs who run their department with limited budgets. The number of volunteers in New York have dropped from 120,000 in the late 1990s to 80,000 by 2010. Thanks to the Fireman’s Association of the State of New York (FASNY), a creative recruitment initiative has addressed the problem of recruitment. FASNY’s RecruitNY program has added upward of 20,000 members to local fire departments. The number of volunteer firefighters has risen to 100,000 as of 2018. Let’s face facts. When you or anyone in your community has a need for your fire department’s services, you expect to hear sirens responding to help you within minutes after you make the call for help. My department formed a paid EMS section many years ago. When you call 911, a paramedic and two EMTs are heading to the call. We still have a very active group of unpaid professionals who respond to pick up the calls that often follow the first call. Yes, volunteer fire departments are receiving multiple calls throughout the day and the number is signif-
Announcements 6TH ANNUAL KEYPORT FIRST AID CADET COMPETITION
icantly higher than when we first joined our departments. Changing times call for new ideas that encourage people to seriously think of becoming active volunteers. When someone volunteers they must realize that they are expected to do the job when duty calls. If your department is having difficulty maintaining an active group of volunteer responders, then it is time for discussions to solve the problems that are preventing your trucks from rolling to calls. I urge all departments to discuss ways to recruit and retain new members. - Dennis
Brick Poster Contest
Preparations are underway for the 6th Annual Keyport First Aid Cadet Competition to be held June 8, 2019, at Keyport High School, according to Keyport First Aid Chief Ken Krohe, who heads up the event. The event will feature upwards of 160 young future EMS providers in a series of skills competitions to test their basic and advance emergency medical service capabilities. Teams are expected to arrive on the evening of June 7, where they'll take part in an educational session and then spend the night on site. The actual competition, set for June 8, is designed to present competitors with realistic scenario simulations which test their abilities and develop teamworking techniques in real-time learning situations. Registration for teams is open and will continue into the spring. To learn more about how to register to compete, or how to become a sponsor of the event, please call 732673-4795 or e-mail chief@keyportfirstaid.org. - Richard Huff
CARLSTADT FIRE DEPARTMENT FAMILY BBQ
The Carlstadt Fire Department Bergen Engine Company One will hold its annual Family BBQ and Picnic on Saturday, June 15, 2019 from 1600 to 2000. The event will be held at the Jefferson Street Fire Headquarters. A $20 per person donation includes all you can eat hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken, bratz, chili, salad and more, and includes beer, wine and soda. Live entertainment is provided by The Crossover Band. For ticket info, call 201-438-2603. Tickets will also be available at the door.
The 2018 Brick Fire Prevention Poster Contest Award Ceremony took place at Laurelton Fire Company, Station 23 on March 7, 2019. The winners were: Division 1A -Daisha Araiza, Reagan Roberts, Kaleelah Meacham; Division 1B - Stella Breitenbruck, Julianna Baughman, Tyler Cop, Isabella Gleason; Division 2 - Bridget Felser, Charlotte Bradley, Kimberly Steiner, Kiera McHugh; Division 3 - Allyson Maselli, Mia Irrizarry, Molly Wheeler; Division 4 - Alexis Merlo, Madison Roshala, Joseph Armooh, Narnia Bagnol; Division 6 - Geraldo Nieto Flores, Khyri Jones, Sandy Rodriquez; Nursery/Day Care School - Madison Dowd, Navaeh Morris, Rosalie Casey. - Fire News photo provided
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N. Bergen 2-Alarmer On February 22, 2019, the North Hudson Regional Fire and Rescue responded to Bergen Turnpike for a structure fire. Companies arrived to a heavy fire condition inside a commercial warehouse and quickly struck a second alarm. Crews were able to get the upper hand on the fire and were able to contain it to its point of origin near a loading bay, but conducted extensive overhaul and removed smoke from the structure. Mutual aid came from Jersey City to cover. This was the first fire for the new Squad 1, the first Ferrara for North Hudson. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
Quick Stop in Bogota On the morning of February 23, 2019, just around 0600, the Bogota Fire Department was toned out for a fire on Larch Avenue. As Deputy Chief Ken Kalman approached the scene he noted what appeared to be a smoke condition and upon further investigation confirmed smoke showing from a two-story home. The initial attack team reported heavy fire in the basement and a second alarm was struck bringing a FAST from Ridgefield Park. Teaneck and Hackensack provided coverage. Two lines were placed into operation as ventilation was conducted and the fire was quickly knocked down and placed under control at 0630. - Fire News photo by Peter Danzo
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Cover Story
All Hands in Medford On April 4, 2019, Taskforce 37 was alerted to a reported house fire on Pequot Trail. Chief Webb reported an attic fire in a log cabin home. Units from Medford, Evesham, Tabernacle and Vincentown made quick work of the fire with no injuries reported. - Fire News photo by Dave Hernandez
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Car Dealership Fire on Tilton Rd. The volunteer fire companies of Farmington, Cardiff, and Bargaintown responded to Tilton Road, and the Atlantic Chrysler-Jeep-Dodge dealership on March 23, 2019, for a fire. EHT dispatch originally dispatched it as a vehicle fire but upgraded it to a structure fire upon the arrival of police, which resulted in the multi-company dispatch. Farmington Assistant Chief Dennis Sharpe and Cardiff Chief Gil Zonge arrived simultaneously with A/C Sharpe establishing command and Chief Zonge assuming operations. Command had Cardiff Engine 1516 pull a two-inch line and begin hitting the fire, an attached storage building alongside the main structure. Then additional lines were pulled from 1516 and Bargaintown Tender 1528 with a Blitz Fire. An LDH was stretched 300 feet. An additional one-inch line was put into service as firefighters began removing LP gas cylinders, acetylene tanks, and O2 tanks. Once firefighters had the fire knocked down, three large oil tanks were discovered inside the storage building. - Fire News photos by Ken Badger and Dennis C. Sharpe
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Exposure Saved in Haledon On February 27, 2019, the Haledon Fire Department responded to Barbour Street for a house fire. Crews encountered heavy fire conditions on the first floor of a large 2-1/2 story frame with an exposure problem on the Bravo side. A second alarm was requested bringing mutual aid to the scene. With an aggressive interior attack a large amount of fire was quickly knocked down but, due to balloon construction and an advanced fire prior to arrival, the fire extended into the second floor and attic, and the Bravo exposure. At the 90-minute mark, with heavy fire conditions still reported in the second floor and attic and fire now showing through the roof, command ordered all members out and switched to a defensive attack. The fire was finally placed under control, but the home suffered heavy damage. The Bravo exposure was saved and the cause of the fire was under investigation. - Fire News photos by Peter Danzo
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Garfield House Fire
On March 6, 2019, the Garfield Fire Department sounded a general alarm bringing companies to Semel Avenue for a reported house fire. Companies arrived to a 2-1/2 story frame with fire and heavy smoke showing from the Bravo side and mutual aid was requested from Wallington and Saddle Brook. The home was under construction at the time and the fire appeared to have started in the chimney/fireplace area and extended into the A/B wall. Crews worked on opening up the exterior of the home while a line was stretched up the stick of Ladder 4 and flowed down the chimney. - Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
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Marcal — Again On February 26, 2019, the Elmwood Park Fire Department and many surrounding municipalities were requested back to the Marcal Paper Products site for a reported structure fire — again. For the third time in under 50 days companies were met with a confirmed structure fire, this one quickly reaching a third alarm. As companies searched for the fire, many explosions were heard from an unknown source while smoke was pushing from the roof line. The explosions were soon found to be electrical and PSE&G was requested. Elmwood Park Truck 4 went to the roof to vent and once the power was secured the fire was quickly knocked down. Crews from Garfield, Clifton, Fair Lawn, Saddle Brook, Paterson and Maywood operated on scene. - Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti and Peter Danzo
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Learning About Wildfires On March 19, 2019, a group of college students from the Northern Arizona University participated in an 860-acre prescribed burn in mixed hardwood and pine forest in the Millville Wildlife Management Area in Cumberland County. The area had been infested by the Southern Pine Beetle and was mechanically cleared in some areas to prevent the spread of the beetle in 2012 and 2013. Students were mentored by New Jersey Forest Fire Service personnel and assisted with ignition and holding operations during the burn. The week-long program includes learning about operations as well as pinelands fire ecology, current fire research, fire effects and monitoring, smoke management and fire and aviation safety. (Above, left to right): Michael Daugherty, Savannah Cierley, Noah Haapmann, Holly Iverson, Michael Pierson, Jensen Sohns, Josh Caputo, Michael Gallagher, and NJ Forest Fire Service B1 Section Warden Thom Gerber. - Fire News photos by Ken Badger
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Flash Over at Bargaintown Blaze
FF Injured in Secaucus
The Volunteer Fire companies of Bargaintown and Scullville responded to a structure fire on Delaware Avenue near Leap Street at 0045 on March 25, 2019. Bargaintown Assistant Chief Wil Hancock, who lived nearby arrived and reported smoke showing from a house that was actually located on Leap Street. Bargaintown Chief Eugene Sharpe arrived and established command. The fire was deeply seated in a garage with a residence above. As the crews were setting up, the fire flashed over, involving the second floor. Firefighters quickly gained the upper hand, but requested assistance from Cardiff and the City of Somers Point. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
On March 13, 2019, a general alarm was sounded in Secaucus, bringing all Secaucus companies to the Harmon Cove Towers for reports of smoke in the building. Police were first to arrive and confirmed a fire on the 11th floor of Tower 1. Command struck a second alarm on arrival, bringing a rescue from Lyndhurst and two engines and a ladder from Jersey City to the scene. Companies were able to quickly knock down the fire and conduct overhaul, while EMS was requested to the sixth floor for an injured firefighter. All mutual aid was released within an hour of the initial alarm. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
All-Hands Dwelling Fire in Evesham
Collapse at Hammonton Fire
Evesham Fire Rescue units were alerted to a reported structure fire off North Locust Avenue on April 1, 2019. Chief Bittenbender arrived to a two-story single-family dwelling with fire showing from sides A and D. Command held the fire with units from Evesham, Medford and Mount Laurel. No injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by Dave Hernandez
The City of Hammonton Fire Department responded to Centennial Drive on April 6, 2019, for a structure fire. Hammonton Chief Shawn Macri requested mutual aid from Collings Lakes and Winslow Township, after arriving to a garage fully involved. Command requested water tenders from the Elwood and Nesco. Firefighters fought their way to the garage and maintained an exterior attack due to the roof and ceiling collapsing. As the smoke cleared, Assistant Chief Dennis LaSassa of Hammonton had a backhoe brought in to remove debris from the garage to reach fire that was buried beneath. Also responding were Elwood, Nesco, Laureldale (covered Elwood), Green Bank (covered Nesco), Hammonton Police, Hammonton Water, Atlantic City Electric Compan and Atlanticare EMS. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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Standing By ‌ Just in Case On February 23, 2019, the Seaside Heights Fire Department Water Rescue Team, along with various mutual aid water rescue teams, stood by on a 40-degree winter day to ensure the safety of swimmers participating in Seaside Heights Annual Polar Bear Plunge. The 2019 event had the biggest crowd on record with 7400 people diving into the Atlantic Ocean to raise money for Special Olympics New Jersey. Seaside Heights Water Rescue Captain Tim Farrell coordinated with multiple water rescue teams to have crews on standby on land and in the water. Land crews were stationed at elevated posts, while water crews formed a barrier in the ocean to keep participants from wandering out of the event area. The event finsihed without any emergencies. - Fire News photos by Mike Nowacki
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2 Homes Destroyed in Paterson Blaze
On February 27, 2019, companies in the Paterson 3rd Battalion responded to Hopper Street for a fire. While en route units reported a large column of smoke visible and upon arrival reported a 21/2 story frame fully involved and the similar B exposure with heavy fire; the D exposure was a church which was also starting to go. A second alarm was quickly followed by a third. Before all the mutual aid could arrive a fourth alarm was requested by Chief of Department Brian McDermott due to an extremely heavy fire condition which was threatening the entire block. Two deck guns, a tower ladder and numerous handlines were pressed into operation and the water company was requested to boost pressure in the area. The fire in the church was quickly contained and the remaining exposures covered. The main fire building suffered a total collapse and the B exposure was destroyed. Ironically, in April 2018 the B exposure was the scene of an early morning three alarm which had also extended into today’s original fire building (then the D exposure). The fire was under investigation by the Paterson Fire Department Arson Unit and the Passaic County Prosecutors Office. Companies remained on the scene into the evening wetting down hot spots as a demolition crew took down what was left of the two homes. - Fire News photo by Peter Danzo
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Paterson Basement Fire On the evening March 30, 2019, Paterson firefighters were dispatched to Coral Street for multiple calls for a house fire. First arriving companies found heavy smoke pushing from the basement of a home with smoke and fire starting to extend up to the first floor. Lines were stretched and the heavy fire in the basement was quickly knocked down. Firefighters chased small fire up into the first floor as they checked for extension and were able to rescue a few pets from the home. - Fire News photos by PuckStopperPhotography.com
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Heavily Involved in Newark On March 18, 2019, the Newark Fire Department dispatched a full assignment to Mount Prospect Avenue between Bloomfield and Park Avenues for a house fire. Battalion 3 arrived to a house heavily involved at the rear, extending to both the Bravo and Delta exposures, and quickly struck a second alarm. Heavy fire soon consumed both adjacent homes and a full evacuation was ordered as all three had heavy fire in the attics. Multiple handlines and ladder pipes along with deck guns were set up as the third alarm was sounded. Mutual aid came from Bloomfield, West Orange, South Orange, East Orange, Montclair, Jersey City and Elizabeth. - Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
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Busy Scene: MVA, Car Fire, Woods Fire
The volunteer fire companies of Cardiff and Bargaintown responded to West Jersey and Tremont Avenues in March 2019, for an MVA with fire. The crash involved two vehicles; one came to rest in the woods and caught fire, the second travelled about 250 feet west before it came to a stop. Cardiff Chief Gil Zonge was advised by dispatch that one of the vehicles was on fire and catching the woods on fire. Firefighters stretched two one-inch lines, one onto the vehicle,
the second to contain the woods fire. After the woods fire was extinguished, the second line was used to assist in the extinguishment of the vehicle fire and firefighters then cut the battery on the second vehicle. The occupants of the vehicle that was struck and caught fire were able to exit the vehicle, but the occupants of the second vehicle were treated and transported by EHT EMS to the local hospital. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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Paterson 2-House Fire On February 26, 2019, the Paterson Fire Department received multiple calls for a fire on Main Street. A heavy column of smoke could be seen from miles away as companies arrived to heavy fire showing in between two, 2-1/2 story wood frames and Battalion 1 quickly stuck a second alarm. Multiple lines were stretched knocking down heavy fire from the exterior as crews went interior. Searches in both buildings were negative and the fire was knocked down and placed under control in under a half hour. Mutual aid came from Lincoln Park, Bloomfield, Passaic, Nutley, Totowa and West Paterson. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
Cecil Structure Fire The volunteer fire companies of Cecil and Williamstown from the Monroe Township Fire Department, along with Collings Lakes responded to Black Horse Pike on March 24, 2019, for a structure fire that was spotted by the New Jersey Forest Fire Service observation tower in Blue Anchor (Winslow Township), Camden County. The tower relayed his information of smoke to Forest Fire Power Wagons, which investigated and found the fire. Cecil Chief Jim Solomon established command and had the first-in unit lead off with heavy lines. Firefighters were able to contain the fire to the building of origin as the fire building was attached by a breezeway to another structure. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
1 Civ Injured at Hackensack Fire On April 15, 2019, members of the 4th Platoon responded to Shafer Place for a house fire. Engine 1 arrived to fire on the first floor and stretched the initial attack line. Ladder 1 and Rescue 1 begin ventilation and searches. Engine 5 laid a supply line to Engine 1 and, along with Engines 4 and 2, stretched additional handlines. The fire was knocked down within 15 minutes. A female occupant was assisted from the front sidewalk of the house by an off-duty Ridgewood firefighter and was transported to Hackensack UMC for smoke inhalation by Hackensack UMC BLS. Englewood and Teaneck assisted on scene along with the Hackensack Building Department. - Fire News photo courtesy of the Hackensack FD
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Recycling Fire in Cumberland Co.
The City of Vineland Fire Department in Cumberland County responded to a fire at Giordano Recycling on Mill Road and Landis Avenue on April 4, 2019. Firefighters arrived to find a structure and recyclables on fire. Command immediately requested a third alarm, bringing apparatus from surrounding counties. Firefighters were hampered by poor water pressure so command requested a water tender task force. Crews used a ladder tower and several deck guns, and poured water onto the fire for several hours while employees used forklifts to move pallets and bales of recyclables. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
House Fire in Orange On March 17, 2019, the Orange Fire Department responded to a fire on Berryman Place. Crews arrived to a 2-1/2 story wood frame with moderate smoke showing from the roof. South Orange and West Orange also responded. As crews stretched in, fire began to self-vent from the attic area. Solar panels impeded ventilation and gave firefighters a difficult time securing the power. A second alarm was struck bringing Bloomfield, East Orange and Montclair to the scene. The fire was placed under control within a half hour but crews responded back to the scene a few hours later to douse some hot spots. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
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West Windsor Chili Cookoff On March 24, 2019, the West Windsor Fire Department held their annual Chili Cookoff. The place was packed with people sampling and voting on their favorite chilis. - Fire News photos by Amy Batista
Ringwood Trains Recently, the Ringwood Fire Department conducted a drill at Ringwood State Park in the Shepherd Lake section of the park. It was a multi-jurisdictional drill with units from the surrounding communities participating. Ringwood was granted special permission from New Jersey Parks Commission to use a building on the grounds. Companies had a door simulator for crews to practice their forcible entry prior to doing a search of the building. The companies worked on fighting a structure fire in areas with limitations on water and there was a drafting exercise for water and a water shuttle done during this training evolution. - Fire News photo by Chris ‘Doc’ Denton
False Alarm on Water Search On March 24, 2019, the Wallington Fire Department Dive Team was conducting a drill in the Passaic River and picked up a signal that resembled a body near the Gregory Avenue Bridge. Lyndhurst Fire Department’s Dive Team along with Passaic’s Marine Unit were requested to assist in locating the object. After a few hours the search was negative and Oradell’s Dive Team responded with their sonar. Companies searched throughout the night and came up empty. Monday morning crews returned to continue the search but once again nothing was found. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
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Firehouse Kitchen With Host Ray Cooney
Guest For Lunch Ok, Firehouse Kitchen fans, you are not going to believe this. I had the great Gerard Kane, from Ladder 143, on yet again! This was Firefighter Kane's fifth time on Firehouse Kitchen. Since his first appearance, he has joined the show as one of the executive producers. There was one major difference about this appearance — it was live! We are still working out the quirks, but be sure to tune in Tuesday mornings at 0930 on Facebook. Gerard, with his recognizable deep voice and dry-wit, is always a pleasure to have on. I call him the ultimate story teller. His story telling became evident, yet again, as we were preparing his dish — Honey Mustard Chicken. The story begins at Ladder 143 on a beautiful
spring/summer day. They were preparing one of their favorite meals, the “Job Sandwich.” Firefighter Ray Moran, of Ladder 143, came up with this delicious concoction of chicken, eggplant, peppers, mozzarella, etc. (see recipe below). It got its name because every time they would eat this sandwich, they would get a job. For all you non-firefighters, a job is what we call a fire. As soon as everyone got their sandwich, an alarm came out. It wasn’t a job, it was just a food-on-the-stove call. As Ladder 143 returned from responding to this fire, Firefighter Moran noticed a special guest at the table. The back door was left open and a squirrel decided to come in to see what all the fuss was about the job sandwich. Ray was furious. He yelled, some words I can’t write at the squirrel, chased it around the kitchen and out the back door. The firefighters laughed and Ray sat down at the table and picked up the half, squirrel-eaten sandwich and took a big bite. Gerard said, “Ray, what are you doing? Squirrels carry diseases!” and Ray’s reply was, “You want to get a job tonight, doncha’? Then you gotta’ eat a job sandwich!” That night, they got that job! To find out more about Firehouse Kitchen, go to firehousekitchenshow.com. To appear on Firehouse Kitchen, e-mail me at firehousekitchentv@gmail.com.
Honey Mustard Chicken Chicken thighs Equal parts honey and Dijon mustard 2 tablespoons brown mustard Fresh rosemary Salt, pepper, paprika A cup white wine Mix all together. Submerge chicken. Place on baking sheet - bake at 350 for one hour. Present over rice or risotto.
Job Sandwich Fried chicken cutlet Fried eggplant Fresh mozzarella Roasted peppers Balsamic vinegar and olive oil Serve on a Kaiser roll.
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Talk About Cramped Quarters!
The volunteer fire companies of Mays Landing, Laureldale, and Cologne responded to Longwood Avenue on April 9, 2019, for a structure fire. Mays Landing Chief Lou DiMartine established command and reported nothing showing from the exterior. Command entered the structure and upon opening the cellar door was met with a heavy smoke condition. Command had Mays Landing Engine 1812 stretch in with a preconnect through the front door, through the kitchen and into the cellar where they found a clothes dryer on fire. Due to the confined space of the cellar (putting it mildly) firefighters had to disassemble the appliance to remove it through a small cellar window. Once the clothes dryer was removed, a fan was brought in to remove the smoke via another cellar window. Firefighters wondered how the dryer got there in the first place! - Fire News photos by Ken Badger
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House Goes in East Orange
On March 27, 2019, the East Orange Fire Department was dispatched to Rutledge Avenue. Crews arrived shortly after 0430 to heavy fire showing from a 2-1/2 story private dwelling and commenced an interior attack. Members encountered multiple holes on the first floor and were eventually pulled from the building as the fire continued to advance. Trucks 1 and 2 set up their ladder pipes while three handlines were stretched around the property. Heavy
smoke still remained but ground ladders where thrown to the division 2 windows and the companies attempted a second interior attack, but command once again pulled members out of the building as heavy fire started to vent from the roof. Companies remained on scene throughout the morning hours and despite the extended operation, mutual aid was only called for house coverage. - Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
Heavy Fire for Irvington On February 27, 2019, all Irvington units were dispatched to Springfield Avenue near the Maplewood border for a structure fire. Maplewood Engine 32 responded as the FAST and Union Ladder responded to the scene as Irvington was down a ladder. On arrival, heavy fire was already self-venting from the top floor in the rear and an offensive attack was attempted but, within a few minutes, command made the decision to go defensive as conditions were deteriorating. Ladder 41 set up their ladder pipe as multiple handlines were stretched, knocking down majority of the fire. Crews re-entered the structure nearly 20 minutes later to conduct extensive over haul. East Orange, Bloomfield and West Orange provided coverage. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
Fatality at Montvale Blaze On December 23, 2018, both the Montvale Fire Department and neighboring Pearl River (NY) Fire Department were dispatched for reports of a fire. First arriving companies from Pearl River found a house fire on North Avenue with heavy fire showing from the rear of the single-story ranch in Montvale with reports of entrapment. Montvale companies arrived and the chief requested a second alarm as lines were advanced into the home and searches began. Conditions deteriorated and command pulled all members out of the building as heavy fire broke through the roof with an occupant still unaccounted for. Several exterior handlines were put into operation as well as Pearl River’s ladder pipe. After approximately 30 minutes, all visible fire was knocked down allowing crews to re-enter for overhaul. Interior crews found the body of the occupant, an elderly woman, who had succumbed in the fire. - Fire News photo by Peter Danzo
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DANA SHAFFER JOINS SUPER VAC AND COMMAND LIGHT AS THE BRANDS’ NEW NORTHEAST SALES MANAGER Dana Shaffer joins Super Vac and Command Light as the brands’ new Northeast Sales Manager. He brings more than 17 years of experience in the fire equipment industry, representing brands like MSA, Lion Fire Gear, Res-Q-Jack and Hurst Jaws of Life as part of Susquehanna Fire Equipment Co. Shaffer now represents Super Vac’s expansive lineup of ventilation equipment, as well as Command Light’s array of scene lighting products. The Super Vacuum Manufacturing brands on-boarded Shaffer earlier in the year. With the arrival of his demo truck this April, Shaffer has hit the ground running. Shaffer also brings 20 years of fire service in the Bloomsburg, Pa., area, where he currently resides. Shaffer is experience in auto extrication, engine operations, ladder response and heavy rescue, as well as specialize rescues, like RIT team, hazard material and low- and medium-angle rope operations. During his time volunteering with the Epsy Fire Department, he held various positions and currently is the Rescue Chief. Shaffer has a background in heavy equipment operation and repair. “Not only does Dana bring a wealth of knowledge to our team, but he’s well respected among industry peers and brings an enthusiasm that truly is contagious,” says Roger Weinmeister, President of Super Vac and Command Light. Shaffer says it’s an exciting time to join these two brands. “With Super Vac’s new DeWalt- and Milwaukee-battery powered fans, the demo requests are rolling in, and I love demos. I really enjoy rolling up my sleeves to work and train with customers. And then there’s Command Light’s tower giveaway, which kicked off at FDIC. The
giveaway encourages departments to see our products in action for a chance to win a Shadow Series tower. There’s nothing like a live demo that lets you compare truck-mounted lights to a Command Light tower. In the end, I love working with new departments and companies every day, and just these two initiatives alone have me busy doing just that.” Shaffer can be reached via email at danas@supervac.com or danas@commandlight.com, or via cell phone at 970-420-1964. To meet Super Vac and Command Lights full sales team, visit supervac.com/sales-support or commandlight.com/sales-support. For more information on Super Vac’s new battery fan, visit supervac.com/battery-powered-ppv, and for details on the light tower giveaway, check out commandlight.com/light-tower-giveaway. About Super Vac – Super Vac is the world’s leading manufacturer in the emergency ventilation products. A one-stop shop for all things ventilation, Super Vac equips crews with a versatile array of only the toughest solutions, including the industry’s largest lineup of PPV fans, as well as smoke ejectors. Super Vac also manufactures rescue saws, rehab misters and other necessities, including the patented Smoke BlockAid for smoke mitigation. About Command Light – Command Light, of Fort Collins, CO, specializes in scene lighting for the emergency industry and features the best light towers, compact scene lighting, traffic flow boards and other safety lighting products.
Cover Usually Means More Work
On March 27, 2019, while all Passaic companies operated at a two-alarm fire across town, Wallington Engine 202 was dispatched to High and Aycrigg for an MVA with entrapment. The crew from 202 did a door pop with hand tools and transferred the patient care over to Hatzolah of Passaic and Clifton. - Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
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Fire News, June 2019, Page 31
Bargaintown Easter Egg Hunt
The Bargaintown Volunteer Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary, along with help from the firefighters and the EHT High School Key Club held their 2019 Easter Egg Hunt on April 6, 2019, at Tony Canale Park in Egg Harbor Township, Atlantic County. Approximately 350 children participated in the hunt. The event was also sponsored with assistance from Chik-Fil-A Fire Road. - Fire News photos by Ken Badger
Cardiff Ladies Aux. Sub Sale
The Cardiff Volunteer Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary held its 4th Annual meatball sub sale on March 23, 2019, at their station with the ladies hand-making 3000 meatballs. Customers had the choice of pickup or delivery and it was another sell out. - Fire News photos by Ken Badger
Page 32, Fire News, June 2019
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Up Close & Personal
City of Hammonton firefighter John Warren, Jr., at a Hammonton job on April 6, 2019, at Centennial Road. John suffered a myocardial infarction at the scene of a structure fire on Union Road on February 14, 2018, while operating the pump. CPR was performed on him at the scene and it saved his life. Glad to see you back on the job, John! - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
Mount Laurel Lieutenant Daniel Butkovic rolls hose after an Evesham all-hands fire on April 1, 2019. - Fire News photo by Dave Hernandez
Closter Firefighter Robert Russenberger taking a break after a recent drill. - Fire News photo by Chris ‘Doc’ Denton
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Fire News, June 2019, Page 33
Up Close & Personal Firefighters from the City of Salem, along with the Upper Deerfield Volunteer, cover the City of Bridgeton’s station for five hours on April 4, 2019, while Bridgeton assisted the City of Vineland on a three-alarm fire at Giordano’s Recycling. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
North Hudson Chief of Department Frank Montagne. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
Old Tappan Fire Department Lieutenant Alex Naylis at a recent call. - Fire News photo by Chris ‘Doc’ Denton
Evesham Lieutenant John Orcutt takes a blow after an all-hands fire on April 1, 2019. - Fire News photo by Dave Hernandez
Page 34, Fire News, June 2019
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Up Close & Personal Farmington Assistant Chief Dennis Sharpe with Bargaintown Safety Officer Ken Badger at the Atlantic Chrysler fire on March 23, 2019. - Fire News photo courtesy of Cindy Badger
Closter Firefighter Brian Huber after a recent call. - Fire News photo by Chris ‘Doc’ Denton
The City of Hammonton Volunteer Fire Company 2 held their annual fish fry on April 12, 2019. Life Member Tom Brown on KP duty. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe