Fire News Pennsylvania 11-2025

Vehicle/Garage Fire in New Kensington

Multiple departments were dispatched to a vehicle on fire in a garage in New Kensington.

See story on page 6

Truck Fire on Fruitville Road

The Limerick Fire Department was dispatched on September 2, 2025, to a reported vehicle fire.

See story on page 7

Double Fatal House Fire in Arnold

While doing overhaul in Arnold, crews were called to a working house fire just four blocks away.

See story on page 8

Tractor-Trailer Burns on I-81 in Tremont Twp.

Crews arrived to find the truck consumed by fire and spreading into the trailer.

See story on page 10

Homes and Vehicles Involved in Heavy Fire

The Chester Fire Department was dispatched to the 700 block of West 7th Street, for a reported house fire.

See story on page 11

Regina Jelski Newest Member of Limerick FD

On September 2, 2025, photographer Regina Jelski was appointed as the newest member of the Limerick Fire Department Fire Police.

See story on page 26

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Substantial Damage in Lower Burrell Fire

On September 8, 2025, Lower Burrell stations were called out for a deck fire that was possibly extending into the home. Lower Burrell Chief Brennan Sites arrived in his POV and did a 360 of the property and then set up command in the front yard. Assistant Chief of Lower Burrell 1 was on scene next and stationed in the backyard to keep communication with the OIC on the fire’s progress. LB1’s truck was first on scene, and LB-1 Chief Ted Hereda and Assistant Chief Rich Lang pulled a 2-1/2 inch line to the back. As they attacked the bulk of the fire, LB-3, New Kensington, and Arnold arrived on scene and started an interior attack, as well as assisting the suppression in the backyard. Crews fought the fire for roughly 45 minutes. The house suffered substantial damage. - Fire News photos by Steve Matto

Fatality at Round Top Road Mobile Home Fire

On September 20, 2025, The East Huntingdon Township Fire Company, along with mutual aid, was dispatched to Round Top Road for a mobile home fire with explosions and entrapment. Westmoreland County 911 received multiple calls reporting neighbors were trying to rescue the occupant. Engine 58-2 arrived to fire consuming the enclosed front porch of the residence where the occupant was located. The roof fell down trapping the occupant under it. Fire was extinguished and the occupant was found deceased, despite neighbors attempt to rescue him. Fire extended into the rest of the residence and was also extinguished. The second alarm was brought in for tankers due to no hydrants being in the area. - Fire News photo by Artie Osniak

2 Hour Fight in Upper Darby

Fireboats Required for Commercial Fire

Philadelphia firefighters battled a stubborn fivealarm fire on the 6600 block of State Road recently. The building, occupied by a car repair shop, was gutted. Three fireboats were put in service during the fire. Narrow driveways did not allow for many fire trucks to gain access. State Road was closed for about a quarter-mile in each direction, as companies established a water supply.

- Fire News photos by Alex Lloyd Gross

In the early morning of September 19, 2025, neighbors called 911 for smoke coming from a vacant house on Wynnbrook Road in Upper Darby. Crews from Upper Darby, Darby Fire Company and Holmes Fire Company responded to the 1100 block of Wynnbrook Road. Not long after arrival, the working fire dispatch was struck. Crews were on scene for over two hours and no injuries were reported.

- Fire News photos by Sherry Tappan, Tappan Fire Photos

Vehicle/Garage Fire in New Kensington

Mid-afternoon on September 2, 2025, multiple departments were dispatched to a vehicle on fire in a garage in the Aluminum City Terrace section of New Kensington. Before crews arrived, the burning vehicle, which was on a lift in the garage, became fully involved, spreading the fire throughout the garage. Crews quickly arrived and attacked the fire, but the garage was already a complete loss.

- Fire News photos by Steve Matto

2nd Alarm Dwelling Fire in Upper Allen Twp.

On October 14, 2025 at 0017 hours in Upper Allen Township, Chief 1-23 was returning from a house fire in Upper Allen Township, when he encountered a working house fire on Gettysburg Pike in Upper Allen Township. Command 23 worked on getting two occupants off a porch roof and advised of negative entrapment. Incoming units were informed of a working porch fire in the rear extending into the house with fire throughout the second floor. Squad 29 arrived first and was supplied water by Engine 23. As companies were stretching lines, Command 23 requested the second-alarm assignment. Due to deteriorating fire conditions all members were evacuated from the building and a par check conducted. Once the visible fire was darkened down, crews re-entered the dwelling to extinguish pockets of fire in the roof area and to overhaul. The fire was placed under control at 0139 hours.

- Fire News photos by Jason Coleman-Cobb

Occupants Rescued from Harrisburg Row Home Fire

On September 20, 2025, at 0731 hours while Harrisburg companies were clearing a fire alarm on Hale Street, County Fire dispatched Squad 8, Wagon 4, Tower 1, Truck 2, and Battalion Chief Zavrel to Hoerner Street for a structure fire. A caller reported thick smoke from the roof and was on the roof and unable to get down. With reports of entrapment, Chief 8 requested the first alarm, adding Wagon 3, Truck 32, Rescue 69,and Air 13 to the box. Chiefs Enterline and Souder also responded to the scene. Captain Saul arrived on Truck 2 to smoke showing from the second floor and Chief 8 requested a ground ladder to the rear as he had three occupants trapped on the roof. The occupants were successfully removed form the roof. Two lines were stretched from Squad 8 and were used to extinguish a fire on the first-floor rear that was beginning to extend. No further extension was reported on the upper floors.

Truck Fire on Fruitville Road

The Limerick Fire Department was dispatched on September 2, 2025, at 1515 hours to a reported vehicle fire on Fruitville Road. Battalion 51, Engine 51, Fire Police, and Limerick Police responded. An explosion was reportedly heard from the fuel truck’s brake chamber. A nearby resident tried to help by using a fire extinguisher before the engine arrived. Units arrived, immediately pulled a line and put water on the small fire, cooling the back of the truck and averting a potentially devastating incident. Fire Police shut down the section of Fruitville Road between Swamp Pike and Pruss Hill Road for the duration.

- Fire News photos by Regina Jelski

5 -Year-Old Max to the Rescue!

Just before 1800 on the evening of September 20, 2025, companies from Upper Darby were dispatched to the 1100 block of Harding Drive for a reported building fire. Llanerch Fire Company also responded to find fire in the rear of a two-story twin, with possible extension into the residence. Fortunately, for the resident, neighbors were able to keep the fire from spreading, utilizing a garden hose. The fire could’ve been much worse, if it hadn’t been for a local five-year old neighborhood hero, Max, who saw the smoke and fire and ran home telling his parents to dial 911. No extension to the home was found and no injuries were reported.

- Fire News photos by Sherry Tappan, Tappan Fire Photos

Busy Day for Perkiomen FFs

Perkiomen Township volunteers were toned out on four separate calls in the township on August 31, 2025. The first call came in at 1430 hours for “smoke seen coming from the electrical box” on the 400-block of Dartmoor Road in the Fox Heath neighborhood. While on scene at that incident, a call came in for a residential fire alarm at 1458 hours at the 100 block of Salem Road in the Maple Hill neighborhood. At 1624, volunteers were dispatched to the 200-block of Bridge Street for a report of “haze in the basement” and a burning smell. The fourth call came at 1640 for a report of an MVA rescue near the 500-block of Gravel Pike (Route 29).

- Fire News photo by Ted Hodgins

Double Fatal House Fire in Arnold

On August 27, 2025, while doing overhaul at a small garage fire in Arnold, crews were called to a working house fire just four blocks away with multiple entrapment and an occupant that jumped from a window. Lower Burrell, Arnold and New Kensington quickly left the scene of the garage fire and responded to the house fire. As flames shot out of a second-story window, crews found one occupant unconscious on the ground in between the houses, and immediately entered the house for search and rescue efforts while crews started battling the fire from the front street. Four people were transported to the hospital and one was treated on scene. Sadly, two people who were rescued succumbed to their injuries.

- Fire News photo by Steve Matto

5 Perish in Lebanon City Dwelling Fire

On September 28, 2025, at 0845 hours, Lebanon County Fire Dispatch sent Engines 21and 17, Truck 20, Rescue 24, Squad 22, and Chief 15 to Church Street in the City of Lebanon for a structure fire with people trapped. Chief 15 requested a second alarm and Truck 48 for RIT. Engine 21 reported a smoke column en route and arrived to heavy fire showing from the first floor of a three-story, semi-attached dwelling. Six on-duty personnel began to perform search and suppression efforts. Heavy fire involved the first and second floors as crews worked under tough conditions stretching multiple lines and locating several occupants on the upper floors. Due to deteriorating conditions, Command 15 requested all firefighters out the dwelling and crews would darken down the visible fire from the outside. Crews were able to get control of the fire in about an hour and continued to douse hot spots and perform extensive overhaul. Sadly, five of the 10 occupants in the home at the time of the fire succumbed to their injuries, ranging in ages from one year to 73 years old.

- Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb

Multi-Alarm Fire at South Londonderry Sawmill

At 2203 hours, on September 8, 2025, Box 3-4 sent the Lawn Fire Company and surrounding mutual aid departments to Mount Wilson Road at the Weaber Sawmill for a commercial fire. Chief Wilson was advised by Lebanon County Fire Communications of a call from the facility stating the power went off and the whole place is on fire. The Chief arrived to a working fire in Mill 6, requested Rescue Engine 3 to enter the property and connect to a hydrant near his vehicle and lead off with deck gun operations. Other companies secured hydrants, used their deck gun, positioned in sites around the complex and set up a collapse zone as heavy fire began to consume the large lumber manufacturing facility that has been

the site of many previous fires over the years in which this fire would be the largest. Additional alarms were requested, including special calls for tankers to supplement the hydrant system and provide water. At one point, there were over 25 tankers from five counties operating at the scene and three fill sites in operation. Crews continued to operate overnight and fought the blaze for over eight hours before declaring it under control with hot spots smoldering for several days. Approximately 1.1 million gallons of water was used from the on-site hydrant system to battle the fire.

- Fire News photos by Jason Coleman-Cobb

Jefferson Twp. 2-Alarmer

Around 1130 hours on September 3, 2025, the Butler County 911 Center received a call for smoke coming from the roof of a house in the 600 block of Mush Rush Road in Jefferson Township in Butler County. Station 15 (Saxonburg), Station 10 (Herman), Station 11 (Penn Twp.) and Station 45 (Saxonburg Ambulance) were dispatched. Chief 15-2 arrived to a working fire and requested a second alarm. Station 3 (Butler Twp. Fire District), Station 16 (Middlesex Twp.), Station 9 (East Butler) and Station 27 (Buffalo Twp.) were activated. Crews arrived on scene and found fire in the second -story floor and the roof. At one point, crews were pulled out of the building due to interior conditions.

- Fire News photos by Artie Osniak

Tractor-Trailer Burns on I-81 North in Tremont Twp.

Crews were dispatched to Interstate I-81 for a reported well involved tractor-trailer fire on August 29, 2025. Crews arrived to find the truck consumed by fire and spreading into the trailer. North End Fire 58-15 established a fill site nearby. At this time the decision was made to quickly clear the backlog of a single lane to enable apparatus to position. Once cleared, crews repositioned apparatus and worked to open up the trailer to extinguish remaining fire and hot spots and the wreckage was then cleared from the highway by JRL Towing. A demo firetruck from Rosenbauer travelling north turned on its warning lights and took up a blocking position. Crews from North End Fire, Joliett Fire, Donaldson Fire, Pine Grove Twp FR, Muir Fire, Tremont Fire, NLFES and PSP as well as Penndot and JRL Towing assisted.

- Fire News photos by Seth Lasko

Trailer Fire on Interstate 81

At 2050 hours on September 22, 2025, Harrisburg Box 1-3 sent Wagon 3 and Truck 2 to Interstate 81 southbound at milemarker 66.5 for a tractortrailer fire. A call came in from Traffic Management reporting brakes on a trailer on fire with flames visible on the camera. Captain 2, riding on Truck 2, requested a tanker to the scene. Tanker 37 was dispatched. One line was stretched knocking down fire in the rear tires that did not extend into the trailer. The driver was able to pull the cab away from trailer. The contents of the trailer included cabinets, carpet and flooring materials.

- Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb

Vehicle Fire

in Arnold

On August 25, 2025, Arnold and New Kensington crews were called to a working vehicle fire on 3rd Avenue in Arnold. Arnold Chief Eric Gartley, arrived in his POV before the trucks and held the fire in check by using a fire extinguisher until they arrived. Once the trucks arrived, crews made a quick knock on the fire.

- Fire News photo by Steve Matto

Homes and Vehicles Involved in Heavy Fire

At approximately 2030 hours on August 28, 2025, the Chester Fire Department was dispatched to the 700 block of West 7th Street, for a reported house fire. Upon arrival, crews were met with heavy fire conditions, involving multiple homes and vehicles. The fire rapidly escalated to four alarms, bringing in companies from all over Delaware County and surrounding areas. Crews were on scene for more than four hours, with no reports of injuries.

- Fire News photos by Sherry Tappan, Tappan Fire Photos

Occupant Charged with Arson at Middletown Mobile Home Fire

At 0440 hours, on August 27, 2025, Box 88-2 sent Company 88, Engines 54, 71 and 74-1 (RIT), and Truck 46 to Caravan Court at the Harborton Estates mobile home park for reports of a mobile home on fire. Chief Whitebread, while en route, advised of multiple calls and possible entrapment. Chief Whitebread requested the box be upgraded, adding Engines 55, 59 and Air 91 to the assignment. The Chief arrived to heavy fire showing, with an occupant outside. He requested EMS. Police charged the occupant with arson.

- Fire News photo by Jason ColemanCobb

Rock Causes Overturn

Philadelphia firefighters got called to the 9000 block of Pine Road for an auto fire. When they arrived, they found a single-car crash. The driver fell asleep and hit a rock, adjacent to a house. That caused his car to flip. The driver was not injured.

- Fire News photo by Alex Lloyd Gross

East Huntingdon 2 Alarm with Fatality

Firefighters from multiple fire departments operating on scene of a second alarm fatal house fire, in East Huntingdon Township, Westmoreland County, on September 20, 2025.

- Fire News photo by Artie Osniak

Rollover MVA with Entrapment in New Kensington

On September 23, 2025, New Kensington Rescue crews were called to a two-vehicle rollover MVA with entrapment, and a vehicle into a structure. One vehicle, after being hit from the side, flipped onto its roof and crashed through an outdoor deck of Gunny’s Lounge on Kimball Avenue in New Kensington. One occupant was extricated and was transported to the hospital.

MVA with Entrapment for Hegins and Joliett

On August 13, 2025, an early morning call came in reporting an MVA with entrapment on the 2100 block of West Center Street in Porter Township. Both Hegins Valley Fire Rescue and Joliett Fire responded along with Minersville EMS. On arrival, crews found a pickup had lost control and travelled up an embankment where it struck a tree and then spun coming to rest back on the roadway. Unfortunately, air medical declined the flight and the patient was transported via ground. Crews remained on scene awaiting a tow while fire police detoured traffic at Good Spring at the intersection of Gap Street and Schwenks Road. Crews remained on scene with PSP until Stiely Towing and Recovery arrived and removed the vehicle.

- Fire News photo by Seth Lasko

- Fire News photo by Steve Matto

Vista Road Tractor-Trailer MVA

On the morning of August 28, 2025, a call came in for a reported MVA with entrapment involving a tractor-trailer rolled over on the 700 block of Vista Road (Route 125) in Eldred Township. District 10 and 13 along with Company 65 were dispatched along with Hegins EMS. Crews found a tractor-trailer had failed to navigate a turn and rolled over, struck a section of guardrail and slid several hundred feet, coming to rest blocking the southbound lane. The driver was self-extricated. Command requested Company 65 to continue in for their drying agent and clean up. Schuylkill County EMA arrived on location to assist Company 65. With the roadway closed on both sides of the mountain, Hammers Towing and Recovery arrived and started work to upright the tractor and trailer. A skid loader with a sweeper broom and bucket assisted in cleaning up spilled potatoes. Allar Lawn and Landscape also arrived and assisted on scene with a truck and large dumpster as for debris cleanup. The roadway was closed for several hours while the wreckage was removed and the scene cleaned up.

- Fire News photo by Seth Lasko

Limerick MVA with Extrication

On September 8, 2025, at 1141 hours, the Limerick Fire Department was dispatched to a reported MVA involving a single vehicle. Rescue 51, Battalion 51, and Fire Police responded. Freedom Valley EMS arrived first and requested fire department assistance for stabilization after finding that the car had struck a bridge, leaving it partially hanging off the edge with the driver’s end down in a ditch. The driver, who was the sole occupant, appeared to have lost control of the vehicle before the crash. The patient was then transported to a local hospital for evaluation. Fire Police and Limerick Township Police shut down Lightcap Road between Airport Road and Possum Hollow Road for the duration of the incident. All were made available an hour later after the tow truck arrived and removed the vehicle.

- Fire News photos by Regina Jelski

Talk About Being Lucky!

On the afternoon of July 26, 2025, crews from Springfield and Upper Darby fire companies were called to Hawarden Road for reports of a large tree down on an occupied car. Crews worked with EMS to free the driver, who miraculously walked away with minor injuries.

- Fire News photos by Sherry Tappan, Tappan Fire Photos

Pedestrian Down in University Heights

On the evening of September 6, 2025, Philadelphia Fire Department crews from Engine 43 and Medic 1 responded to the intersection of Market and 30th streets, in the University Heights neighborhood, for a reported pedestrian down in the roadway with a head injury. Arriving units quickly located, and transported one male with a head injury, in serious, but stable condition to a nearby medical facility.

- Fire News photos by Bryan Lopez

LZ Set for Suedberg Road Medevac

Crews were dispatched to the 400 block of Suedberg Road to establish an LZ for an incoming medevac on September 8, 2025. Crews responded and arrived to await Life Flight 5 in approximately four minutes. Both North End Fire and Pine Grove Fire Rescue established the LZ. Pine Grove Community Ambulance and Tremont EMS also arrived at the LZ. After readying the patient for flight, fire crew assisted in carrying the patient onto the helicopter.

- Fire News photo by Seth Lasko

2 Fatalities at Roosevelt Blvd. MVA

A driver lost control on Roosevelt Boulevard near Welsh Road in Philadelphia. He mounted a curb and hit two pedestrians and then slammed into a tree. One pedestrian and the driver were killed, and the other pedestrian seriously injured. Heavy rescue companies and an additional engine were called to the scene.

- Fire News photo by Alex Lloyd Gross

Derrick Road MVA with Entrapment

Derrick City Volunteer Fire Department, Bradford City Fire Department ambulance and Foster Township Police were dispatched at 0641 hours on September 30, 2025, to a single-vehicle MVA on Derrick Road. First arriving units found a van on its side in a ditch with the driver entrapped. Firefighters used battery powered and hydraulic rescue tool to extricate the driver, who was transported to a hospital by ambulance. The vehicle sustained disabling damage and was towed from the scene. Emergency personnel were on scene for nearly two hours. - Fire News photos by Jay. K. Bradish

2nd Fire in a Week

Strikes Harrisburg Block

On September 26, 2025, at 1626 hours, shortly after the Harrisburg night platoon reported for duty, Battalion Chief Lloyd radioed Dauphin County Fire requesting a box for a fire on Hoerner Street, in a two-story row of about six dwellings. Companies had fire showing from the first-floor rear extending to the second floor. Three lines were stretched from Wagon 4, two into the fire building and one into an exposure, knocking down the visible fire in about seven minutes and reporting no extension to the exposure. All searches were negative and companies performed extensive overhaul checking for extension and clearing hot spots. Fire damaged the first- and second-floor rear with smoke damage through the fire building and exposure. The fire was placed under control at 1640 hours. On a side note, this fire occurred across the street from a September 20, 2025 first-alarm fire in which three occupants were rescued from a porch roof. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb

McKeesport Fire at Crawford Village

At around 1830 on July 13, 2025, McKeesport Fire was dispatched to the Crawford Village Apartments for a fire. A deputy chief quickly arrived and found smoke showing from an apartment and requested a second alarm, bringing in off-duty personnel as well as many volunteers from nearby agencies. The fire was quickly brought under control before most of the second alarm arrived on scene. The Allegheny county Fire Marshal’s Office was investigating. Units on scene were Citizens Hose 1 of Glassport, Liberty Borough, Duquesne Annex, Munhall 4, Allegheny County Airport Authority, White Oak 1 and the Versailles Borough Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Nick Kurta

3 Injured, 1 Fatality in Car into Building with Fire MVA

Kane Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched at 0354 hours, for a structure fire on North Fraley Street. The first chief on scene discovered that there was a car into the structure with heavy smoke and fire. A second alarm was immediately requested. Chief Bressler arrived and called for a third alarm due to multiple victims needing rescue and the size of the building. Responding fire departments on the second and third alarms were Mt. Jewett, Ludlow and Hamlin Township from McKean County; Sheffield from Warren County; Highland Township, Wilcox, Johnsonburg, Ridgway and St. Marys from Elk County; Brockway and Smethport Volunteer Fire Departments were on standby. The building is a large, three-story brick building with a

business located on the first floor and multiple apartments located on the second and third floors. Under the command of Kane Fire Chief Matt Bressler, multiple handlines, and two aerial apparatus were also used. Three victims were rescued from the apartments over the business. One victim, the 15-year-old driver of the car was pronounced deceased at the scene. Other agencies assisting at the scene were McKean County Emergency Management Agency, McKean County Coroner, All One Disaster Response and Kane Police Department. PSP, Fire Marshal Unit, Accident Reconstruction Unit and Forensic Services Unit investigated the incident which was under investigation. - Fire News photos by Jay. K. Bradish

Farmhouse Fire, Possible Arson, in Salem Township

On August 22, 2025, multiple departments were called to a farmhouse fire on Route 22 in Salem Township. Crews responded to a call at this same residence just two weeks prior and found an incendiary device under a lawnmower, following a dispute between a tenant and his landlord, so they approached this fire with hesitation. Tankers cycled for hours while firefighters fought the blaze.

- Fire News photos by Steve Matto

Butler Chiefs Sponsor Smoke Speaks Training

Firefighters talking about the evolution they did at the Smoke Speaks Fire Training hosted by the Butler County Fire Chief’s Association on September 27, 2025.

- Fire News photo by Artie Osniak

FDNY at Ellis Fundraiser

Harleysville Tanker Drill

On September 10, 2025, Perkiomen’s Tanker 66 and an all-volunteer crew participated in a Tanker Drill hosted by Harleysville Community Fire Company. The drill involved multiple fire companies and was a large-scale operation to practice our collective ability to flow a large amount of water with tankers. This was another

critical drill to ensure skills and equipment are ready to go when needed. There are many rural and low-density areas that do not have fire hydrants nearby so tankers bring the water to the incident location. Thanks to Harleysville Community Fire Company for organizing and hosting this event. - Fire News photos by Ted Hodgins

Fire Flow Path Training

On August 19, 2025, Perkiomen Township Fire Company volunteers along with volunteers from the Limerick Fire Department attended a joint training on “Ventilation and Door Control.” Firefighter Chris DiFerdinando taught fire behavior with a mock

house prop. He demonstrated how fire behaves with different aspects of the house being introduced to oxygen, how to understand the difference in smoke, and how to properly control the airflow into a building.

- Fire News photos by Ted Hodgins

Training

Critical Response Training in Upper Dauphin County

On the morning of August 6, 2025, after several months of planning, several agencies came together for a large-scale critical response training event. Numerous agencies from the Pennsylvania State Police, several local law enforcement agencies, several Upper Dauphin fire companies, and EMS agencies and more participated. Assisting in the drill as ‘victims’ were also actors from Twin Valley Players Colonnade Theater Group. Two exercise scenarios were

conducted throughout the morning. Pennsylvania State Police Aviation Unit Trooper 3 also took part in the second scenario. Two command units from PSP and Derry Township were located at the Lykens State Police Barracks. Following the training a debriefing and meal was held back at the barracks for all participants.

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Jimmy Ellis Fundraising … Remember Next Year’s

During the weekend of August 15 to 17, 2025, the Jimmy Ellis Foundation along with the Butler County Fire Chief’s Association hosted the annual Jimmy Ellis Fire Training Weekend. The threeday event was held throughout Butler County and at the Washington County Training Center. The host hotel for the weekend was the Marriott in Cranberry. Friday started with opening ceremonies and lectures from speakers throughout the United States. Saturday and Sunday featured HOT Classes and lectures. The evenings were for fellowship at various restaurants in the Cranberry area. The 2026 Jimmy Ellis Training Weekend will be held the weekend of August 14 to 16, 2026.

- Fire News photos by Artie Osniak

National Night Out at North End Pine Grove

On August 5, 2025, North End Pine Grove 58, as well as Pine Grove Township Fire Rescue, HH and L, Donaldson, Tremont fire companies and more came out to put on National Night Out event for the community which included SAR with a K9, a mock car crash extrication, smoke trailer and more.

- Fire News photos by Seth Lasko

Touch-A-Truck at Bright Horizons

On September 13, 2025, Upper Providence DFES Squad 68, Black Rock Volunteer Fire’s Engine 68-1, along with our firefighters attended the Touch-aTruck Event at Bright Horizons at Collegeville. Attendees had an up-close look at the vehicles that help keep our community running. Thanks for inviting us over!

- Fire News photos by Ted Hodgins

Canonsburg Volunteer Fire Department Open House

Shippensburg Corn Fest a Hit

The 44th annual Shippensburg Corn Fest was a great opportunity to open the doors of the fire station on King Street to the thousands who visited the community. A local business donated more than 100 life jackets that were given out in addition to a variety of fire prevention/ community risk reduction information. The antique fire apparatus was a hit with kids and adults alike.

- Fire News photos by Kelly

Volunteer Summer Uchin Leaving the Company

At Perkiomen Township Fire Company’s monthly meeting on August 11, 2025, the company recognized the contributions of administrative volunteer and Fire Police member Summer Uchin. Summer and her family are moving out of the area to live in upstate New York.

Summer has been a volunteer with the fire company since June of 2021 and has served as Financial Secretary and Sunshine Committee chairperson. She has been very valuable in keeping records organized, event planning and other administrative work, allowing our firefighters to focus on training and responding to incidents. She was recognized in 2024 with the “President’s Award” for her dedication. President Brad Bonner presented Summer with a cake that was enjoyed by the membership. Thanks, Summer, for your attentive service to the Perkiomen Township Fire Company. You will be greatly missed! - Fire News photos by Ted Hodgins

Community Safety Tips Event in Southampton

State Representative Joe Hogan hosted an event in Southampton for people to get safety tips. Everything from fire prevention to being alert for scams was covered. The Lower Southampton Fire Company showed up and gave out literature and met with the community. - Fire News photo by Alex Lloyd Gross

CFSI EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR BILL WEBB ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT

After serving as CFSI Executive Director for the past 30 years, Bill Webb announced his retirement effective December 31, 2025. He made the announcement a reception attended by members of the CFSI National Advisory Com-mittee and others.

“A friend of mine recently summed up his career by saying you never have to work a day in your life if you enjoy what you’re doing,” said Webb in his remarks.

“For the most part, those words describe how I feel about my work. I”

As Executive Director, Webb worked with six administrations and 10 U.S. Fire Administrators. His contributions to the fire service, including his role in the creation of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program in 2000, his support for the United States Fire Administration and National Fire Academy, and his advocacy for fire safety and prevention, among other issues, have significantly impacted public safety in our nation. In lauding Webb for his contributions to the fire service, CFSI President Jim Estepp quoted Harry Truman who said, “It’s amazing what you can accomplish if you don’t care who gets the credit.”

“At times a quiet force, Bill has undoubtedly proven himself as a pivotal fire service leader, influencing important issues in Washington, DC, that have greatly benefited our nation’s fire and emergency services,” said CFSI President Jim Estepp. “We will miss his leadership.”

STATE FARM AND NVFC SUPPORT LOCAL FIRE DEPARTMENTS WITH $1.5 MILLION IN GRANTS

State Farm® and the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) have teamed up for the second year to support local volunteer fire departments with funding to secure needed equipment to help keep their responders safe and protect their communities. Through this year’s Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program, 150 departments in 44 states received a $10,000 grant.

Many of these small-town and rural fire departments operate with limited budgets, making it difficult to meet the rising costs of the equipment and gear they need to best serve their communities These grants are a lifeline for local departments to obtain equipment that will increase safety, efficiency, and effectiveness. Grants will be used to purchase a wide variety of department necessities, including personal protective equipment, EMS and rescue tools, communication devices, and much more.

State Farm and the NVFC will also join 10 of the fire department recipients at a community engagement event this fall, which may include an open house, fire prevention event, parade, or other local gathering.

“The NVFC is proud to team up with State Farm to continue the Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program and provide critical assistance to volunteer fire departments,” said NVFC Chair Steve Hirsch. “Firefighting and rescue equipment is expensive, and many departments struggle to find the funding they need. These grants from State Farm enable small departments to secure equipment they need to be better prepared to serve their communities and protect their responders.

Estepp announced that CFSI Director of Government Affairs Michaela Campbell, a seasoned leader with a strong track record, will serve as the organization’s next Executive Director. “Throughout the years, Michaela has demonstrated herself to be a strong leader and effective voice for our nation’s fire services,” said Estepp. “I am confident that she will continue the legacy of strong leadership set by Bill Webb as our next Executive Director.”

Since the Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program launched in 2024, $2.5 million has been awarded to 250 local fire departments. Find information about the grant program, including a list of departments receiving the grants, on the NVFC web site at www.nvfc.org/statefarm.

Pleasant Hill Antique Fire Muster

The Pleasant Hill Fire Company, located in southern York County, hosted the 4th Annual Static Antique Fire Truck Display on August 23, 2025. Awards were given in 12 different categories. The event also included a firematic flea market, kids’ activities, and raffles. - Fire News photos by Jason Coleman-Cobb

Liberty Hose Company 2 Lykens

Bureau of Fire Honor Guard

Unique Fundraiser in Philadelphia

Members of the Philadelphia Fire Department stand in formation outside of the Xfnity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia, for the 70th annual Hero Thrill Show. This event provides money to the families of police and fire personnel killed in the line of duty. This year, in addition to showing off ladder trucks and ambulances, members of the public could actually ride in a fire engine around the parking lot. - Fire News photo by Alex Lloyd Gross

Photog Jelski Newest Member of Limerick FD

- Fire News photos by Jan Jelski

On September 2, 2025, at the Limerick Township meeting, photographer Regina Jelski was appointed as the newest member of the Limerick Fire Department Fire Police. Regina has been serving with the department for several years, capturing moments behind the lens at community events, training exercises, and emergency scenes. Her commitment to supporting the fire department through photography has made a meaningful impact, and now she has taken on an even greater role in public safety. As a member of the Fire Police, Regina will assist with traffic and crowd control at emergency scenes, helping to ensure the safety of both responders and the public. This position plays a crucial role in the smooth and secure operation of fire department responses. Please join us in welcoming Regina to her new role and thanking her for continuing to serve the Limerick community in this new capacity.

Remembering 9/11

2025 PA EMS Memorial Service

The 2025 Pennsylvania EMS Memorial Service was held on September 8, 2025 at Heinz Chapel in Pittsburgh. The event was the capstone of the Pennsylvania EMS Memorial Weekend of Remembrance which honored the 82 EMS providers that died in the line of duty. Pictured are 50 bicyclists who rode the 150 miles from Erie to Pittsburgh in memory of the fallen. The cyclists were joined by several members of the legislature, Pittsburgh EMS, and the EMS West Regional Honor Guard.

- Submitted by Chris Dell, Chief

For the 24th consecutive year, Bradford area firefighters have observed September 11, 2001. Bradford Township volunteer firemen have lit the historic Firemans Monument in Oak Hill Cemetery for 343 minutes each year. The monument was erected and dedicated in 1909. This year’s memorial procession through downtown Bradford included Bradford City, Bradford Township, Derrick City, Rew, Corydon Township, Lafayette Township and Hilltop fire departments and Bradford City Police and Bradford Township Police.

- Fire News photos by Jay. K. Bradish

Radnor Township Appoints New Chief of Fire and EMS

The Radnor Township Board of Commissioners is pleased to announce the appointment of James P. Smith, Jr., as the new Township Chief of Fire and Emergency Medical Services. Mr. Smith was appointed by unanimous vote on September 8, 2025, and joined the Township in his new role on September 16, 2025.

Mr. Smith brings 30 years of extensive experience in fire and rescue services. Chief Smith will serve as Radnor’s first career Fire and EMS Chief and will be charged with the overall direction, administration and evaluation of the Township Fire and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and will plan, develop, implement and evaluate a Township-wide combination fire and EMS system, policies and procedures.

He will also work closely with the Radnor, Bryn Mawr and Broomall fire departments as well as Radnor Township Police Department to promote fire prevention and protect the lives and property of Radnor Township residents.

- Fire News photo by Kelly Gabliks

Thanks to the Kendall Park Crew For the Help

On July 19, 2025, Engine 221 from Kendall Park (NJ) assisted Dublin Station 23 (PA) Bucks County with their annual carnival. Chief of Kendall Park Chris Perez provided a cover crew for a third year in a row. A special thanks to Captain Nick Berezansky and crew who also ran the beer garden on our last night. - Photo courtesy of Rob ‘Jersey’ Cioffi; submitted by Ken Meyers