Serving PENNSYLVANIA
Volume 17, No. 4
W W W.FIRENE WS .COM
Story on page 18. -Fire News photo by Steve Matto
Fire,Magazine Rescue The & EMS Serving Fire, Rescue Heroes &Since EMS Heroes 1973
September/October 2026
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Fire News, September/October 2026, Page 3
In this issue... Refinery Fire In Trainer
Serving Fire & EMS Heroes Since 1973
Firefighters battled a refinery fire in Trainer, Delaware County, on June 25, 2026. See story on page 4
Fire in Uptown Harrisburg Box 1-3 toned sending Crews to N. 7th Street in the city’s Uptown for a garage fire. See story on page 6
Lewistown Fire Draws a Crowd Lewistown Fire Department was alerted to reports of a house fire with people trapped in the area of West Market and North Grand Streets. See story on page 8
Fatality at South Whitehall Street Blaze Lehigh County Communications Center sent Station 32, Engines 11, 26 and 31, Towers 3 and 56, Rescue Engine 5, Station 2 (RIT), and Station 62 (EMS) to a house fire. See story on page 13
Fast Stop on Perkiomen House Fire On July 4, 2026, units were dispatched to a house fire on Lincoln Road in Perkiomen. See story on page 22
Tributes Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Michael E. Pahira, Jr. Aquashicola’s William ‘Billy’ George Lyken’s Lenwood ‘Len’ Bixler, Jr. See story on pages 33-35
PLUS: Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 28 Focus of the Month . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 30 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 32
FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher/CEO TIM EDWARDS, Chief Operating Officer GARY P. JOYCE, Editor MYLES QUINN, Long Island Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production CLIFF CHIESA, Art Director, Production Manager BARBARA CONNOLLY, Vice President National Sales SUZANNE BANCROFT, Business Development Manager BRYAN LOPEZ, Editorial Assistant Graphic Artists: LYNN SEDLER, GREG JONES DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor Emeritus CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS DAWN ALTSTATT, TED AURIG, LAUREN CARPENTER, JASON COLEMAN-COBB, TED FESSIDES, JEFF GOLDBERG, N. GRISWOLD, ALEX LLOYD GROSS, CHRIS HALDEMAN, TED HODGINS, CURTIS JURY, KEN LAGER, SETH LASKO, GREG LEAMAN, STEPHEN LENZ, ANDY MARSH SR., STEVEN MATTO, ARTIE OSNIAK, STEVE ROTH, PATRICK SHOOP, SHANE SHIFFLETT, JAYSON WAGNER, ASHLEY WALTERS, FRANK WESNOSKI, DENNIS WETHERHOLD, JR. COPYRIGHT 2026, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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Reaching 17 States with 14 Editions Long Island, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, Kentucky, Maryland, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, S. Carolina, Virginia, Washington DC, West Virginia, and Wildwood, NJ Proud Member Of: 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 Inc, with corporate offices at 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713.
Page 4, Fire News, September/October 2026
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Arnold House Fire Snuffed On June 20, 2026, crews from Arnold, New Kensington, Lower Burrell, and several surrounding cities responded to a house fire on Kenneth Avenue in Arnold. Units arrived to heavy fire shooting from a second-floor bedroom, as well as the attic. Interior crews attacked the fire, while exterior crews handled extensions to the front porch and roof. No injuries were reported, and the fire was brought under control in roughly 30 minutes. - Fire News photo by Steve Matto
South Londonderry Township Fire At 0003 hours on July 11, 2026, Lebanon County Box 2-01 sent Stations 2 and 1, Squad 3, Engine 48-1, Tower 58, and Squad 88 to Horseshoe Pike at Snitz Creek in South Londonderry Township for a commercial structure fire. Deputy 2 arrived with fire through the roof and established command. Engine 2 stretched a line for fire attack as crews had multiple exposure issues. Fire involved the courtyard area between a two-story, building with apartments over a bike shop and a restaurant. Interior crews reported fire in the attic of the apartment building. Multiple lines were stretched as command requested more manpower. Occupants of the apartment were able to safely evacuate. No injuries were reported and companies cleared the scene around 0430 hours. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
Refinery Fire in Trainer Firefighters battled a refinery fire in Trainer, Delaware County, on June 25, 2026. - Fire News photos by Dennis Sharpe
12 Hour 3 Alarm Warehouse Fire in Glassport On June 18, 2026, multiple units throughout the Mon Valley were dispatched to the 100 block of 9th Street in the Borough of Glassport for the report of black smoke coming from a warehouse. After forcing entry, crews from 161, 180 and 190 located an approximately 200-foot-wide area of floor to ceiling fire nearly 100 feet inside the structure. Multiple additional attack lines and master streams were advanced into the building to bring the fire under control. As operations continued, the incident was upgraded to a third alarm by Glassport Command due to the volume of fire and extensive overhaul requirements. The facility contained large quantities of compacted cardboard and recycled materials, creating significant challenges during suppression and overhaul. Crews utilized forklifts to separate large piles of material while firefighters extinguished remaining hot spots. Units operated on scene for approximately 12 hours before returning to service. - Fire News photo by Nicholas Kurta
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Helping Children Learn About 9/11 By Mary Malloy power to help young people understand our nation’s history, build empathy, and carry its This September 11th marks the 25th lessons forward,” she said. “Supporting work anniversary of an event that changed the like this is central to the Turtle Plastics world. Nearly 3,000 people died that day, Foundation’s mission of advancing education including 343 firefighters. There are countless and strengthening communities through parents and educators who want to talk about health, safety, and community wellbeing.” 9/11 with their children, but don’t know how. The Turtle Plastics Foundation is a broad“As time passes, it is evident that an based nonprofit organization whose mission increasing number of firefighters entering the is to advocate, create, support and promote service today were either not yet born or were very young when the attacks occurred,” said We have a responsibility to ensure that the memory of educational, environmental, health and safety Victor Stagnaro, CEO of the National Fallen September 11 endures, and that future generations initiatives worldwide through grants, donaFirefighters Foundation (NFFF). understand the courage, sacrifice, and commitment tions, public awareness events and other mar“Meanwhile, many of us who vividly remem- demonstrated by the firefighters and other first responders keting efforts. Its focus is on the support of ber that day now have children and grandchil- who answered the call that day, said Victor Stagnaro, worthy non-profit causes related to the CEO of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. improvement of public health, education, dren of our own. We have a responsibility to safety and the global environment. ensure that the memory of September 11 The series, which launched on June 15, gives “After extensive research and conversations endures, and that future generations understand teachers and families a framework for disthe courage, sacrifice, and commitment demon- cussing 9/11 without overwhelming young chil- with educators, parents and first responders, strated by the firefighters and other first respon- dren, while connecting the history of the day to community helpers, psychologists and children, ders who answered the call that day.” concepts they can grasp: What it means to we concluded that when children hear snippets A 30-year veteran of the fire service, remember, to respond in an emergency, to rec- of the news around a 9/11 anniversary, the Stagnaro started his career with the Prince ognize the helpers, to preserve memories, and to words we want them to learn and appreciate in an age-appropriate way are: ANNIVERSARY, George’s County (Maryland) Fire/Emergency serve a community. Medical Services Department in 1985. In addiAccording to Rupa Mehta, Founder of Nalini EMERGENCY, HERO, MEMORY, SERVtion to serving as a firefighter and station officer, Method and NaliniKIDS, Remembering ICE,” said Mehta. “When we talk about 9/11 he has been a fire instructor, public information September 11th uses movement, storytelling and through the lens of these words, we are not only officer, battalion chief, executive officer to the carefully chosen words to help children under- teaching them about [the event], but about big fire chief, fire marshal and operations shift stand the significance of 9/11 through develop- concepts like remembrance, heroism, chief. Continued on page 35 mentally appropriate themes. “This approach To offer a way to teach this topic to young aims to help children better contextualize the children, and to introduce the importance of moments of silence, memorial services, and remembering the heroes and community mem- news coverage that many will encounter leading bers who came together on that day, the educa- up to, during, and after this year’s milestone tional team at NaliniKIDS, a 501(c)(3) educa- anniversary. “The result is a free resource that tion nonprofit and creators of OOPA’s World of we are certain will have an immediate impact on • The National Fallen Words, in partnership with the NFFF and the families, teachers and children during the 25th Firefighters Foundation’s misTurtle Plastics Foundation – a broad-based non- anniversary, and for years to come. We hope this sion is to honor America's fallprofit organization whose mission is to advo- resource reaches homes, classrooms, and fire cate, create, support and promote educational, stations nationwide, and that together we witen fire heroes, support their environmental, health and safety initiatives ness the next generations grow in their commitfamilies, colleagues, and worldwide – decided to meet this pivotal histor- ment to never forget.” organizations, and to work to ical moment with an innovative and intentional OOPA’s World of Words offers preschool reduce preventable firefighter approach by creating Remembering September through grade 12 programming and resources 11th, a five-part video series with companion that combat the mind-body disconnect of the death and injury. Visit teacher and family guides for children ages five modern classroom. It is a groundbreaking eduwww.firehero.org for more and older. cational video series and classroom program information. that introduces young children to new • To access the entire OOPA’s words through movement and reflection. According to Mehta, the school classWorld of Words, and to sign room strategy is at “full speed ahead,” with up for communications and the hopes that launching the resource now updates, visit https://oopasallows teachers ample time to prepare and worldofwords.org/rememberget familiar with this innovative approach towards remembering 9/11. ing-september-11 Liz D. Paintiff, President of Turtle • To learn more about the Plastics Foundation, agreed that this is an broad-based nonprofit organiimportant initiative that addresses teaching about 9/11 at a grassroots and holistic zation the Turtle Plastics level, where young children can begin to Foundation, visit www.turtleThe interactive segments of the program are designed to learn about this history as they start their get kids up and moving, while helping them process and plasticsfoundation.org educational journey. “This series has the reflect on 9/11in an age-appropriate way.
9/11 Learning Resources
Page 6, Fire News, September/October 2026
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Fire in Uptown Harrisburg At 1628 hours on July 4, 2026, a few moments after shift change, Box 1-3 toned sending Wagon 3, Squad 8, Ladder 2, Tower 1, and Battalion Chief to N. 7th Street in the city’s Uptown for a garage fire. Hill companies en route reported they could see it form the State Street Bridge. Wagon 4 was on the street and Chief 6 advised they could head in the direction of the fire. Multiple explosions were being reported on the Bravo side. Big lines were stretched from Wagon 3 for fire attack and Squad 8 fed Tower 1 with two three-inch lines for master stream operations. Companies set up a collapse zone and had collapses on the B/C side of the building. Brush 35, 68 and 20 and Tanker 20 were ordered to respond on the railroad tracks behind the fire building to assist with brush fires. Truck 32 set up on the B side, supplied by Wagon 3, and went to work with master stream operations. Wagon 3 and Ladder 2 would be called back several times over the next 24 hours for flare ups. The site was the scene of a first alarm fire on June 14, 2022. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
East Pennsboro House Fire on Altoona Ave. On June 25, 2026, East Pennsboro Township Box 5-05 sent engine companies 20, 17, 6, 30, and 37; Towers 17 and 2-30; and Rescue 69 (RI) to Altoona Avenue for a house fire. The first alarm assignment was initiated upon dispatch to calls received. Squad 20 arrived to a working fire from the first floor on the Delta side. stretched a line, and removed a victim from the inside while companies were advancing. Reports of other occupants trapped were negative. Crews from Squad 20 and Engine 17 made a quick knock on the fire that involved the occupied, 2-1/2 story, wood frame, that housed multiple apartments. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
Collapses in Condemned Building On July 7, 2026 at 1626 hours, in Harrisburg, Box 1-4 sent Squad 8 and Tower 1 to Derry Street for a possible structure collapse. Squad 8 arrived to a collapse at the former Edison Junior High School, which had been condemned, and advised codes to be notified. Tower 1 crew used its aerial to knock down pieces of the building that were in danger of falling. Chiefs 1 and 8 also responded to the scene. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
General Rescue on Ramsgate Drive At 1237 hours on June 30, 2026, Upper Providence’s Squad 68 (B Platoon) was dispatched to Ramsgate Drive for a reported general rescue involving two people stuck in a basket lift about 30 feet in the air. While en route, crews were updated that the lift had begun working again. Upon arrival, the Squad 68 crew confirmed that both individuals were safely back on the ground and planned to have the equipment inspected before using it again. Squad 68 was back in service shortly after arrival. - Fire News photo by Ted Hodgins
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Lewistown Coro Fire Draws a Crowd Around 2200 hours on July 1, 2026, firefighters from the Lewistown Fire Department (Heritage Fire Co and City Hook and Ladder) were alerted to reports of a house fire with people trapped in the area of West Market Street and North Grand Street in Lewistown. Upon arrival of Lewistown Fire Department District Chief Patrick Shoop, Jr., he confirmed the reports of this being an occupied apartment building with fire showing from the building and civilians trapped correcting the address to W Market Street. At that time Shoop requested a second alarm bringing additional firefighters to the scene. Shortly thereafter firefighters from Heritage Fire and Junction Fire arrived and positioned their aerials on W Market Street and N Grand Street respectively and both crews along with officers from Lewistown Police Department went to work rescuing trapped civilians from apartment windows and assisting others down the fire escape. While additional firefighters from Heritage Fire Co and City Hook and Ladder began deploying handlines to attack the flames. Four civilians were rescued by emergency services personnel and one was transported to Geisinger Lewistown hospital for evaluation. In addition, three firefighters were either evaluated at the scene or transported to Geisinger Lewistown for treatment of injuries. The American Red Cross was contacted to assist the victims of the fire. Assisting at the scene were Heritage Fire, City Hook & Ladder, Burnham Fire, Reedsville Fire, Milroy Hose, Junction Fire, Granville Fire, West Granville Fire, Chief Logan Fire, Friendship Fire of Port Royal, Mifflintown Hose, Beale Twp Fire, Mount Union Fire, Huntingdon Regional Fire & Rescue, Fame EMS, Milroy Hose EMS, Lewistown Boro Police, Granville Township Police, Mifflin County Regional Police, Pennsylvania State Police, and local fire police. - Fire News photos by Samuel Baumgardner and Pat Shoop
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New Castle County Fire Police Establish Award Honoring CVVFA Legends Steve Austin and Jerry Daniels On July 13, 2026, Stephen Austin and Jerry ‘Hoppy’ Daniels, were honored by the New Castle County Fire Police Association (NCCFPA) at their monthly meeting meeting, hosted by Minquas Fire Company in Wilmington, DE, through the establishment of an award that recognizes exceptional dedication, leadership and contributions to safety and training within the emergency services community. The Austin and Daniels Award for Leadership, Safety and Training was established and named for CVVFA Life Members Stephen P. Austin and Jerry L. Daniels, who passed away in 2025. The award will recognize individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, commitment to safety, excellence in training, and dedication to serving others. The inaugural presentation of the award was made to Stephen Austin and posthumously to Jerry Daniels through his son, Geoff. “Their leadership, advocacy, and
tireless commitment to safety have saved lives, strengthened the emergency services community, and created a legacy that will continue for years to come,” said the New Castle County Fire Police Association. Both of these gentlemen have contributed immensely to the leadership of CVVFA. Steve Austin has previously served in many roles including President, Project Manager of the Emergency Responder Safety Institute (ERSI) and is currently the Director of Finance. Much like Steve, Jerry Daniels was a past-President and Treasurer for many years and was named CVVFA Treasurer Emeritus at the 2025 Annual Convention held in Newport, PA. CVVFA President John Gonzalez, Director Bob Cumberland and members Steve and Anita Heefner were in attendance as Steve and Jerry were recognized.
CVVFA Marks 125 Years With Training Focus at PennSTART
By Todd Leiss The Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firefighters Association (CVVFA) built its 125th Anniversary Annual Meeting around training, holding the July 29, 2026 through August 1 event at PennSTART — the Pennsylvania Safety Transportation and Research Track — with the East Huntingdon Township Volunteer Fire Department as host. Founded in August 1901, the CVVFA drew members from across its seven-state footprint, some driving more than four hours each way. Rather than a ceremonial gathering, the week delivered certified training, hands-on equipment demonstrations, and a vendor showcase that put current tools in front of responders from fire, EMS, law enforcement, towing and recovery, and transportation agencies. Vendor Showcase Opens the Week The meeting began Wednesday evening with a vendor showcase and welcome dinner at PennSTART. Industry partners displayed rescue tools, protective equipment, and support apparatus, including Howell Rescue Systems, Dräger, Arctic Compressor, Genesis Rescue Systems, and Fire-Dex, whose Aeroflex turnout gear was displayed alongside Genesis eForce 3.0 battery rescue tools and Dräger SCBA. CVVFA and Emergency Responder Safety Institute (ERSI) resource tables ran throughout the meeting, stocked with roadway safety training materials from ResponderSafety.com. ERSI’s Emergency Responder Safety Learning Network passed one million hours of training delivered in the past year. The convention was supported by J-Tech as event sponsor with additional support from PSS-Innovations. Wendell’s Mint provided challenge coins distributed to every attendee and participant.
Operation Lifesaver Certified Training Thursday afternoon and evening brought two full sessions of Operation Lifesaver’s Railroad Incident and Safety Course — one designed for law enforcement and open to all responders, the second built specifically for the fire service (RISC-FF). Instructors Charlie Matherson of Chicago and David Bade of Michigan, both Canadian National Railroad police officers, covered grade-crossing Emergency Notification System signage, the FRA Rail Crossing Locator app, and on-scene safety and situational awareness at rail incidents. The statistics carried the argument: every three hours in the United States a person or vehicle is struck by a train, and nearly half of all highway-rail collisions occur at train speeds under 30 mph. The sessions produced capacity, not just attendance. Matherson shared registration information for an Operation Lifesaver train-thetrainer course, and several experienced instructors in attendance committed to following up — seeding rail safety training across the region’s departments. Operation Lifesaver Executive Director Rachel Maleh addressed the group remotely during Friday’s session. Annual Memorial Service Thursday’s Annual Memorial Service was held at Center Bethel Church of God in Alverton, led by Chaplains Samuel Mann and Wilbur F. Long, Jr. President John Gonzalez placed a rose in the association’s fire bucket as each deceased member’s name was read, and the service closed with the tolling of the bell. Presidents Council and PennSTART Facility Briefing Friday’s Presidents Council convened state fire service leaders from Continued on page 34
Page 12, Fire News, September/October 2026
Allentown 6-Alarmer
Allentown Firefighters battled a six-alarm Fire on June 24, 2026. - Fire News photo by Rich Rolen
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Fire News, September/October 2026, Page 13
Fatality at South Whitehall Street Blaze
At 0404 hours on July 13, 2026, the Lehigh County Communications Center sent Station 32, Engines 11, 26 and 31, Towers 3 and 56, Rescue Engine 5, Station 2 (RIT), and Station 62 (EMS) to Helen Street in South Whitehall Township for a reported house fire. The caller lived across the street and said that the vacant house at the corner of Helen and Main streets had fire coming from the windows. Chief 32 arrived on scene to a two-story, single-family dwelling with fire showing from the first and second divisions on the Alpha side. Engine 32 arrived and positioned on the Alpha-Delta corner. Tower 3 arrived simultaneously and positioned on the Delta
side. Engine 32’s crew stretched the initial 1-3/4 inch attack line and began forcible entry. Engine 11 arrived and assisted with fire attack. Engine 32’s and 11’s crew made a push on the first floor. Upon doing searches an adult male was located on the second floor. He was quickly removed from the structure, but was determined to be deceased. Crews knocked the fire down within 15 minutes and began opening up. Crews remained on scene for multiple hours hitting hot spots and investigating. - Fire News photos by Geoffrey Wetherhold
Page 14, Fire News, September/October 2026
Lower Mahanoy Twp. Total Loss
Crews were awakened to a dispatch early on July 10, 2026, for a reported barn fire in Lower Mahanoy Township. On arrival crews found an approximate 40x115 foot barn used as a feed mill fully involved. Crews from Hickory Corners and Community Fire, Herndon Fire, Pillow Fire and Lower Mahanoy Fire positioned on all sides of the structure. While crews were going to work stretching lines Berrysburg Engine 26 arrived reversed laid a five-inch line up to the scene and started supplying water. The tanker task force was struck to assist. Pillows Squad 28 would also lay in a five inch line up the lane. A porta pond was deployed as tankers began to arrive and begin dumping their loads. Americus Hose Tower arrived and positioned adjacent to the building as Millersburg Tower 20 took up fill site operations at a local pond. Crews worked to remove tin and debris to reach remaining fire of the mostly consumed structure. Unfortunately, the structure and any contents were a total loss. - Fire News photos by Seth Lasko
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2-Alarm Barn Fire in Derry Township
On August 12, 2026, companies were sent to Winding Lane in Derry Township for a large chicken barn fire. Tankers were called from multiple counties to provide water for this second alarm fire. - Fire News photos by Pat Shoop
Fire News, September/October 2026, Page 15
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Barn Fire in Dauphin County Goes to 2 Alarms
On July 10, 2026, crews were dispatched for a reported a barn fire in Halifax Township in Dauphin County. Soon after, Chief 29-2 advised of having a column visible and county upgraded the box to the first alarm. Units began arriving to a fully involved barn collapsed or collapsing. Both Millersburg Tower 20 and Lykens Fire Tower 22 setup and began master stream operations. A fill site was established at Lake Tobias with Carsonville Engine 19 filling tankers. Command requested the second alarm which brought numerous apparatus to assist. Some firefighters jumped in to help divert livestock goats away from the structure as the farmer brought fencing to contain them. According to Halifax Fire Department over 50 loads were delivered to the scene by several tankers. Several community members graciously donated food and drink to first responders that were operating. It was reported that one male goat did not make it out of the barn. Crews that operated on scene from Halifax, Fisherville, Carsonville, Millersburg, Reliance Hose, Berrysburg, Community Fire, Pillow, Gratz, Liberty Hose, Lykens, Wiconisco, Dauphin Middle Paxton Fire, Rescue Fire Co- Susquehanna Twp, Duncannon, New Buffalo, Newport, Northeast Fire and Rescue, Lower Swatara, Halifax EMS, Liverpool, Muir, Silver Spring, Liberty Hose and Willamstown. - Fire News photos by Seth Lasko
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Fire News, September/October 2026, Page 17
July 4 Fire in Lawntown
At 1228 hours, on a hot Fourth of July 2026, Box 45-7 toned for a reported structure fire on N. 49th Street in the Lawnton section of the township. Company 91, Squad 8, Engine 32, Tower 33, and Rescues 59 and 69 made up the box assignment. Two calls were received advising of a deck on fire and companies could see a column while en route. Squad 91 arrived to a two-story, single-family dwelling with smoke showing from the rear. Chief 91 established command and had two lines stretched, quickly knocking down the bulk of fire with slight extension to the house. Searches were negative and the fire was placed under control at 1246 hours. - Fire News photos by Jason Coleman-Cobb
Page 18, Fire News, September/October 2026
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Cover Story
Fire in Lower Burrell Residence
On June 19, 2026, firefighters from Lower Burrell and surrounding areas confronted an inferno at a residence at the top of the hill of Camp Avenue in Lower Burrell. The blaze started on the back porch, and quickly ripped through the first floor and extended throughout the attic. First arriving units quickly pulled a 2-1/2 inch attack line and fought the fire from the backyard, while arriving departments set up for an interior attack. As the bulk of the fire was knocked down, interior crews fought extensions and pulled ceilings, while roof operations cut the roof, exposing the fire from the attic. The fire was brought under control in 45 minutes, and no injuries were reported. - Fire News photos by Steve Matto
Page 20, Fire News, September/October 2026
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Main St. 2-Alarm Basement Fire On May 27, 2026, the Otto Township and Eldred Township VFDs were dispatched to a reported house fire in the 400 block of Main Street at 0635 hours. First arriving units found a working fire in the basement and requested a second alarm, bringing Derrick City and Eldred Borough to the scene. Firefighters used two, 1-3/4 inch attack lines to extinguish the fire. Rew, Shinglehouse and Knapp Creek (NY); volunteer fire departments were on standby. Emergency personnel were on scene for 90 minutes. - Fire News photos by Jay K. Bradish
Well Involved on Arrival at Londonderry Fire Just after 2230 hours, Company 88 was alerted to the 2400 block of Sunset Drive in Londonderry Township for a house fire. Engine 88 arrived to find a two-story split level well involved. Engine 88 dropped a split lay from Sunset Drive and put a 2-1/2 inch attack line in service. Squad 88 arrived and picked up Engine 88’s line. Engine and Squad 88 pumped both tank loads until Engine and Tanker 54 arrived. Tanker 54 set us for a nurse operation feeding both 88 units, while Engine 54 layed 1000 feet of supply line to a nearby pond to secure a positive water supply. Engine 88 had four attack lines with Squad 88 also supplying its own attack line to bring the fire under control. Utility 88 also made the response with additional manpower. - Fire News photo by Easton Watkins
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Fire News, September/October 2026, Page 21
Improper Lithium-ion Battery Disposal Starts House Fire At 1714 hours on June 20, 2026 - Susquehanna Township Box 37-1 sent Company 37, Engine 32, Squads 38 and 20, Tower 32, Ladder 2, and RIT 34 to Lucknow Street for the report of a house on fire. Chief 32 arrived to a threestory, duplex with smoke showing from the Bravo side, reported to be a lithium-ion battery on fire that extended to the house. Two lines were stretched for fire in the walls of the first and second floors in the rear. Five occupants were displaced. The fire was sparked by an occupant tossing a battery, that was charging an electric bike, outside and caught the side of the house on fire. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
Busy Even After the Storm Blew Through On July 4, 2026 at 2252 hours, after a severe storm packed with high winds swept through the Capital region keeping city companies busy and curtailing 4th of July activities, Squad 8 and Tower 1 were sent to 1540 South Cameron Street for a pile of garbage on fire. Squad 8 had a trash can and contents, stretched a line, and placed Tower 1 in service. The rest of the evening would be quiet, fire-wise, but companies stayed fairly busy with weather related calls. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
Page 22, Fire News, September/October 2026
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Fast Stop on Perkiomen House Fire
On July 4, 2026, units were dispatched to a house fire on Lincoln Road in Perkiomen, at 0928 hours. A neighbor reported seeing smoke and flames from a nearby house. Heavy fire was seen through the garage roof by arriving units. Crews made a rapid knock on the fire, and most personnel assisted with ventilation efforts and finding and extinguishing hotspots. A neighboring house on the D side of the house of origin received some damage due to melted siding, but there was no further extension. EMS was dis-
patched to provide coldwater and stand by due to the heat of the day. There were no injuries to firefighters or residents. The cause of the fire was under investigation. Responding units: Perkiomen 66, Royersford 98, Limerick 51, Lower Providence 53, Upper Providence 68, Trappe 77, Lower Frederick 52, Skippack 86, Collegeville 34, Lower Salford 78, Harleysville 89, Skippack EMS 33, and RFIT1. - Fire News photos by Regina Jelski
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Fire News, September/October 2026, Page 23
Pickup vs. Pedestrian Bensalem Fire and EMS responded to Route 13 and Woodhaven Road for a pedestrian struck by a car. One medic unit was called. The cause was a pickup making a left into a crosswalk. - Fire News photo by Alex Lloyd Gross
Upper Providence MVA At 0815 hours on July 9, 2026, Upper Providence’s Squad 68 (B Platoon) was dispatched for a report of an MVA and rescue at the intersection of Trappe Road (PA Route 113) and S. Mennonite Road in the township. Upon arrival, it was confirmed that there was no entrapment and no fire. Friendship Ambulance, UPT Police Department, Trappe Fire Company, and Trappe Fire Company’s Fire-Police also responded to assist. Vehicles were towed by Auto Rescue. Squad 68 and crew were in service until 0857. - Fire News photo by Ted Hodgins
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Horseback Rider Injured & Medevac’d
On June 14, 2026, Gratz Fire Company 27 was called to establish an After preparing the patient for flight, firefighters assisted in carryLZ for Life Lion for an individual thrown from a horse. Crews ing and loading the patient onto the helicopter and the patient was responded and established the LZ with EMS arriving shortly after. flown out. - Fire News photo by Seth Lasko
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Fire News, September/October 2026, Page 25
2 People, 1 Dog Ejected in North River Road MVA On August 8, 2026, as the Halifax Fire Department and community were preparing for the end-of-summer fireworks celebration along North River Road, a call was dispatched in the 700 block of Powells Valley Road for an MVA. Standby company New Buffalo Engine 9 and Halifax Chief 29-2 responded. On arrival, a single vehicle which had struck an embankment and rolled multiple times, coming to rest in the middle of the roadway was found. Carsonville Firefighters W. Fleisher and J. Fleisher who had been travelling on Powells Valley Road came upon the accident and immediately began to render patient care. Shortly after, Halifax Chief 29-2 and New Buffalo Engine 9 arrived and were advised both occupants had been ejected. Upon EMS arrival, air medical Life Lion 3 was requested. Chief 29-2 advised the LZ would be at Station 29 and to add Carsonville Fire to handle the LZ. Millersburg Ambulance assisted in transporting one occupant. Early on in the incident upon the arrival of EMS, FF W. Fleisher rendered compassionate comfort to a pet dog that had also been ejected. - Fire News photo by Seth Lasko
Page 26, Fire News, September/October 2026
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Head-on Crash in Elizabethville
Company 21 Reliance Hose Company 1 was dispatched along with Millersburg Fire Company 20 and Wiconisco Fire Company 23 for a crash with reported entrapment-confinement on East Main Street in Elizabethville. Crews arrived to find a car head-on with a box truck. EMS requested air medical for both. Engine 20 and Squad 23 were diverted to the Upper Dauphin High School grounds and sub-
sequently established the LZ. Life Flight 1 approached from the north and safely touched down. Once the patient was readied for flight, crews assisted in carrying/loading the patient. A short while later, Peifer Towing and River Drive Service Center removed the vehicles from the scene. - Fire News photo by Seth Lasko
Clues Left at HitAnd-Run Scene Two people were hurt in a hit-and-run accident in Hulmeville Boro, Bucks County on July 2026. Engine 77 responded and helped with hazards and assisted the squad. The station does not have fire police so traffic control had to done by Langhorne Boro. The injuries were said to be serious but not life threatening. Car parts from the striking vehicle that include the serial number were left at the scene. - Fire News photo by Alex Lloyd Gross
Serious Injury in MC vs. Pickup MVA Firefighters in Philadelphia from Engine 46 went in service with patient care after a motorcycle collided with a pickup on Frankford Avenue and Eden Street. The biker suffered very serious injuries when a pickup turned in front of him. One medic unit was delayed, as they came from a different area in the city. - Fire News photo by Alex Lloyd Gross
FireNews.com
Fire News, September/October 2026, Page 27
New toTHEM Sponsored by
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Page 28, Fire News, September/October 2026
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Training
Upper Providence Hosts Drone Training
On May 3, 2026, Upper Providence Township (UPT) Department of Fire and Emergency Services hosted a joint drone training session that included a review of recent FAA updates followed by several standardized NIST proficiency tests. These quick trial evaluations help ensure pilots maintain strong fundamentals — aircraft control, safety checks, and consistent operational proficiency. The teams were joined by FAA licensed Remote Pilots from the UPT Police Department, Lower Providence Township Police Department, and the Friendship Fire Company Diving-Rescue Unit Search and
Rescue Team from Phoenixville. Drone technology has become an essential tool across public safety — supporting search and rescue missions, assisting law enforcement during critical incidents, and providing real time aerial awareness at large fire scenes. Training together strengthens readiness for the moments when these capabilities matter most. Night operations are a skill set that requires regular practice to stay sharp. A big thank you to UPT Police Sergeant Solorio for coordinating the session. - Fire News photos by Ted Hodgins
Live Burn Training at Skippack
Perkiomen volunteers spent the evening of July 20, 2026, at Skippack Fire Company’s training facility, working in real smoke, fire and heat conditions inside a controlled environment. The focus: search and rescue, hose handling, fire suppression, air pack and mask use, tool operations, building entry and exit, communication, teamwork, and coordination. Handson training like this strengthens our readiness, reinforces best practices, and builds confidence on every call. Thank you to Skippack Fire Company for the use of their facility. - Fire News photos by Ted Hodgins
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Fire News, September/October 2026, Page 29
BWVFC Awarded Grant for State-of-the-Art Air Cylinders On July 8, 2026, the Bradford Woods Volunteer Fire Company (BWVFC) accepted a $7,164 grant from Energy Transfer’s First Responder Fund, which aided in the purchase of six new air cylinders. Energy Transfer is one of the largest and most diversified energy logistics companies in the country, with approximately 3000 miles of pipeline infrastructure and gathering systems located in Pennsylvania. “This generous grant from Energy Transfer enabled us to purchase new SCBA cylinders, said Bradford Woods Secretary Stanhope Bangay. “Investing in lowprofile and light-weight tanks improves our operational capabilities while ensuring our firefighters have the gear needed to keep themselves and our community safe.” Senator Devlin Robinson and Representative Jeremy Shaffer, who helped to sponsor the grant application, also attended the event. The grant enabled the purchase of six MSA Safety G1 SCBA lowprofile air cylinders. Bangay said the new cylinders will help fellow
firefighters reduce fatigue and improve maneuverability in small spaces. “Safety in the communities where we operate is important to us,” said Chris Koop, Manager, Public Affairs at Energy Transfer. “Our First Responder Fund is designed to help emergency responders purchase much-needed equipment like these low-profile air cylinders, which will help the Bradford Woods VFC respond safely and efficiently to emergencies for many years to come.” The Energy Transfer First Responder Fund provides grants to help further the primary mission of first responder organizations, including local fire departments; emergency medical services; county emergency management agencies; county, regional and local police departments; and other eligible agencies. Grants are determined based on a competitive application and review process, and written applications are accepted on a rolling basis for the following cycle. - Fire News photo courtesy BWVFC
Page 30, Fire News, September/October 2026
FireNews.com
WilliamstownLiberty Hose Co. 1, 125th Parade - Fire News photo by Seth Lasko
Hanover Memorial Day Parade Hanover Memorial Day Parade, organized by the Allied Veterans Council of Hanover, included Hanover, Pleasant Hill (West Manheim Township), and Southeastern Adams fire departments. - Fire News photo by Kelly Gabliks
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Fire News, September/October 2026, Page 31
Perkiomen Takes Delivery of New Apparatus
Perkiomen Township Fire Company’s recently delivered Engine 66 has been lettered and detailed by Danz Lettering; he does amazing work! The 2026 Pierce Enforcer apparatus was on display at the 54th Annual Fire Expo at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex and Expo Center in Harrisburg in May. - Fire News photos by Ted Hodgins
Montgomery County Hero Fest 2026
The Montgomery County Hero Fest is an all-day community festival of music, food, and family fun, supporting Montgomery County’s first responder families. When a first responder is injured or loses his or her life in the line of duty, the entire community feels the impact. The Montgomery County Hero Fund provides financial, family and community support to help bridge the gap, reduce immediate burdens, and honor the service of those who protect us. The event was held at Lower Providence Fire Company’s Fairgrounds. - Fire News photos by Ted Hodgins
Page 32, Fire News, September/October 2026
FireNews.com
50th Annual PA Pump Primers Antique Fire Apparatus Show & Muster On July 11, 2026, the 50th Annual Pennsylvania Pump Primers Antique Fire Apparatus Show and Muster was held at Harrisburg’s Riverfront Park. The event was sponsored by the Pennsylvania Pump Primers Association, the Central Pennsylvania Chapter of the national SPAAMFA organization. Over 120 antique fire apparatus participated, either by drafting and pumping from the Susquehanna River, or on static display on the upper level of the park. The event featured a parade, fire service flea market, firefighter skill competitions, and awards. The golden anniversary of this year’s Pump Primers was met with an unfortunate farewell to the event taking place in Harrisburg’s Riverfront Park. Due to an upcoming city project along the riverwalk, that once completed, will no longer allow for antique apparatus to access the riverwalk and pump from the river. The show is being relocated for 2027 to Millersburg, approximately 24 miles north of Harrisburg. - Fire News photos by Jason Coleman-Cobb and Shane Shifflett
FINANCIAL FITNESS FOR FIREFIGHTERS You Speak, We’re Listening: Finances Are Crucial To Your Health And Wellness By Ryan Fields-Spack – Associate Director, Responder Wellness, FirstNet®, Built with AT&T Imagine you’ve just been relieved from another grueling firehouse shift. Eighteen calls in 24 accomplishment and control. 2. Eliminating debt: Getting and staying debt-free is central to true financial wellness. hours and almost no sleep. Driving home, your mind drifts from the controlled chaos of the 3. Building an emergency fund: Handling life’s surprises without panic requires a cash cushengine to the stack of bills waiting for you. Mortgage payments, student loans, credit card ion. debt—the financial worries that refuse to take a backseat despite the lifesaving work you do. 4. Investing for the future: Build a clear path toward retirement and long-term goals. In my 25 years of experience in emergency response, including 7 years with the FirstNet 5. Changing behavior: Knowing what to do isn’t the problem — doing it is. Real wellness Response Operations Group™ (ROG), I’ve seen firsthand how financial stress can impact the mental health and overall well-being of first responders. And in your responses to the 2026 starts with changing money habits. The SmartDollar program guides you step-by-step through each of these to financial stability. “What Firefighters Want” survey, you were loud and clear: Firefighters want help with financial You’ll learn how to stick to a budget, get out of debt, save for the future, and build wealth. When well-being. it comes to dealing with emergencies, firefighters love a good standard operating procedure. Why Financial Wellness Matters Financial stability is important to a good quality of life. But many firefighters face a unique Well, this plan is for you, for transforming your own—and your family’s—futures. FirstNet understands that your job is more than just a profession—it’s a calling. And while challenge: the pride and satisfaction of doing their dream job can quickly give way to the realwe’re known for providing reliable comities of the work. In the past, we were expected to figure it out on our own. Things have changed now, and we munication during emergencies, we also know that by addressing these financial stressors, you can improve your mental health, job per- care deeply about your overall well-being. Taking care of your financial health is just formance, and overall quality of life. As a result, FirstNet has partnered with Ramsey SmartDollar to pilot financial wellness pro- as important as helping to make sure you grams specifically tailored to first responders. Created by Dave Ramsey, widely regarded as a have the connectivity you need when and financial literacy pioneer, these programs enable fire districts to provide practical tools and where it matters most. Take control of your financial future and resources to help firefighters manage finances, reduce debt, and build a secure financial future. learn more about the SmartDollar Key Components of Financial Wellness program. practices: core few a to Financial wellness boils down 1. Creating a budget: It may not be easy or fun, but creating a budget provides a sense of
BULLDOG OEM SERVICES NAMES ADAM GRAVES VICE PRESIDENT OF OEM SALES NESQUEHONING, PA | July 27, 2026 – Bulldog OEM Services is pleased to announce that Adam Graves has joined the company as Vice President of OEM Sales. Graves will lead Bulldog’s OEM sales strategy, strengthen relationships with fire apparatus manufacturers and expand awareness of the company’s growing manufacturing capabilities. In his new role, Graves will work directly with OEM and Dealer partners to understand their production needs, develop new business opportunities and identify ways Bulldog can help manufacturer’s overcome capacity constraints and keep apparatus builds moving. He will also support the development of long-term partnerships that align Bulldog’s capabilities with each manufacturer’s operational goals. Graves brings 17 years of fire industry experience across sales, sales engineering, product management, national accounts and supplier-side leadership. Most recently, he served as Director of Sales for the Valor First Responder division of United Safety & Survivability Corporation, where he worked with fire apparatus manufacturers, municipal fleets and military customers on seating, air purification and vehicle safety solutions. His previous experience includes roles with R.O.M., H.O. Bostrom and Kovatch Mobile Equipment (KME). During his time at KME, Graves worked in sales engineering and product management, supporting apparatus specifications, production, product development, customer inspections and post-delivery service. “Adam understands the fire apparatus manufacturing process from several perspectives,”
said Bert McCutcheon, COO of Bulldog OEM Services. “He has worked within an apparatus OEM and has also spent years supporting manufacturers from the supplier side. That experience gives him a strong understanding of the production challenges our partners face and how Bulldog OEM can provide the capacity, craftsmanship and reliability needed to keep their builds moving.” Bulldog OEM Services operates behind the scenes as a manufacturing and fabrication partner for fire apparatus builders. From its 188,000-square-foot facility in Nesquehoning, Pennsylvania, the company provides custom fire body fabrication, pump module assembly, wiring harness production, apparatus upfits, graphics, refurbishment and additional manufacturing services under one roof. Bulldog builds to each OEM’s designs, specifications and quality standards while keeping the manufacturer’s name and brand at the forefront. “Bulldog has built an experienced team with the capabilities needed to provide meaningful support to fire apparatus manufacturers,” Graves said. “I look forward to building strong OEM partnerships and helping manufacturers expand capacity, address production challenges and continue delivering high-quality apparatus to their customers.” Graves is an active member of the Fire Apparatus Manufacturers’ Association and serves on an NFPA committee. He was also invited to Germany to present to NATO fire chiefs. Outside of the fire industry, Graves enjoys fishing, golfing and spending time with his wife and three children. Graves can be reached at 574-370-2288 or agraves@bulldogoem.com.
FireNews.com
Fire News, September/October 2026, Page 33
Tribute
Funeral Procession for Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Michael E. Pahira Jr.
- Fire News photos by Seth Lasko
Pleasant Hill Volunteer Fire Company Muster
The Pleasant Hill Volunteer Fire Company Muster was held in York County on August 22, 2026. While there were cloudy skies thankfully there was no rain. - Fire News photo by Kelly Gabliks
Page 34, Fire News, September/October 2026
FireNews.com
Tribute
Lyken’s Lenwood ‘Len’ Bixler Jr.
Lenwood ‘Len’ Bixler, Jr., 60, of Lykens, passed away very unexpectedly on July 8, 2026 at his camp along the Juniata River. Born in Harrisburg on November 10, 1965, a son of the late Lenwood, Sr., and J. Irene (Underkoffler) Bixler. He was a graduate of the former Lykens Christian School. Len was a dedicated employee with Hearth & Home Technologies, where he spent over 35 years as an engineer technician. He was extremely proud to be a firefighter. Len was a life member of the Wiconisco Fire Company, where he formerly served as First Assistant Chief for over 20 years. Len currently was an active member of the Lykens Fire Company. He was also a member of the Dauphin
County Firemen’s Association. His commitment to his community was second to none. Following the memorial services Len was given a final ride on Wiconisco Engine 23, traveling past the Liberty Hose Co. 2 Lykens Fire Station. As the procession neared the Wiconisco Fire house both Engine 23 and Engine 22 travelled side by side under and arch conducted by Tower 22 of Liberty Hose Co. 2, Lykens 22 and Tower 20 of Millersburg Fire Co. The procession arrived at the Wiconisco Fire Company where a bagpiper played, a bell was rung and a final call was broadcast by Dauphin County Dept of Public Safety 911. - Fire News photos by Seth Lasko
CVVFA Marks 125 Years With Training Focus at PennSTART Continued from page 10 New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Virginia, alongside national partners including the National Volunteer Fire Council, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, and the Congressional Fire Services Institute. Craig Shuey, Chief Operating Officer of the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission, reviewed PennSTART’s origins and a recent after-action review from an incident at the Allegheny Tunnel. PennSTART Executive Director Peter Castelli outlined construction phases, the test track and infield training areas, a $3.7 million Safe Streets and Roads for All grant, and a planned simulation program that will include snowplow simulators. The Council also received a demonstration of the first module of SmARtKids, an augmented-reality distracted-driving education tool. Keynote — Treat TIM Training Like Fireground Training Deputy Fire Chief John M. Storey, Jr., CFO, of the North Strabane Fire Department delivered the anniversary keynote, “Changing the Culture Before the Culture Changes Us: The Power of Teamwork.” A Fellow of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Fellowship Program, Storey pressed departments to build up the four-hour Traffic Incident Management course and treat it with the same seriousness as structural firefighting training — consistent practice, continual improvement, and recognition as relevant continuing education for law enforcement and EMS. He grounded the argument in three roadway line-of-duty deaths: Firefighter David Good of the Lionville Fire Company (1998), Fire Police Captain Joseph Kroboth, Jr., of the Volunteer Fire Company of Halfway, MD (1998), and towing operator Tyler Laudenslager of H&S Towing Service (2020). Awards Banquet and Installation of Officers At Friday’s Awards Banquet, Steve Hirsch of the National Volunteer Fire Council addressed the four leading causes of death among volunteer firefighters: cancer, cardiac events, mental health, and roadway emergencies. Two General Joseph F. Boyd Visionary Leadership Awards were presented — one by the CVVFA to Stephen P. Austin and one by ERSI to Jack Sullivan, CSP, CFPS. Both awards were handcrafted for the anniversary from an 1890s barn beam left rough to represent a railroad tie, a railroad spike forged
in 1909, and a brass hose coupling from the 1930s–50s. Bob Cumberland received the ERSI Special Merit Award to a standing ovation. The Past President Joseph Bukowski Responder Safety Award went to Chadwick and Dan Keller of Guardian Angel Devices, and the Chief Gary ‘Happy Jack’ Easton Youth Leadership Award was presented to a young Delaware firefighter. Six scholarships were also awarded. Officers installed included President John Gonzalez, First VicePresident Todd Leiss, Second Vice-President Tonya Hoover, Membership Secretary Jim Watson, Recording Secretary Debra Watson, Treasurer Elise Elderkin, and Chaplain Sam Mann. Steve Austin administered the oath. Emergency Responder Showcase The meeting closed Saturday with an Emergency Responder Showcase at PennSTART. The morning opened indoors with a roadway safety session and three tabletop scenarios run on RealScene VR, putting fire, EMS, law enforcement, towing, and transportation personnel through incident problems together rather than in parallel. Attendees then moved outside, where crews from Mutual Aid EMS and the East Huntingdon Township Volunteer Fire Company staged apparatus at a working crosswalk scene and walked through their roles, decision points, and friction at roadway crash scenes. Nick Breul of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund added the law enforcement perspective. J-Tech demonstrated two products built for the struck-by problem. Drew Good ran the LaneBlade, a truck-mounted debris-clearance system that pushes tire carcasses, bumpers, and similar debris out of a travel lane without putting a worker on foot in traffic. Joe Milito demonstrated deployable barrier systems for temporary traffic control that position from a pickup with minimal lane exposure. Attendees finished with a tour of the PennSTART construction site. The facility is expected to be complete in early to mid-2027, and the association intends to return — for future annual meetings and to bring responders together on that ground for roadway safety training. Our next meeting will be held in Newark Delaware hosted by Aetna Hose Hook and Ladder, October 25, 2026. Details to be available on cvvfa.org.
FireNews.com
Fire News, September/October 2026, Page 35
Tribute
Aquashicola’s Carbon County District 1 William ‘Billy’ George
- Fire News photo by Rich Rolen
Firefighters, Educators, Nonprofits were on the ground and those who died in the SARY, EMERGENCY, HERO, MEMORY, and SERVICE) that aims to create a meaningful narline of duty.” Help Children Learn About 9/11 Continued from page 5 prepared, and serving others. We were very deliberate in the language we chose, calling it a ‘big emergency’ where people were hurt, many died and that everyone in the community came together to help. We don’t use words like terror, crash, fire, or attack. Although those words are accurate, we wanted to consider what is developmentally appropriate, approachable in a general classroom setting and digestible for adults of various backgrounds and connections to this significant, historical tragedy. “What Rupa and Liz have created gives educators and parents a thoughtful tool to introduce the concepts at the heart of the program (Anniversary, Emergency, Hero, Memory, and Service) said Stagnaro. He added that their goal was to launch the resources early enough for educators and school systems to become aware of it and incorporate it into their planning for the upcoming school year. “We made a promise to never forget 9/11,” Stagnaro added, “and part of keeping that promise is helping the next generation understand what happened with honesty and care. That’s not easy, especially for young children. We are proud to partner with OOPA’S World of Words and the Turtle Plastics Foundation to give educators and parents a thoughtful way to talk about 9/11, while honoring the first responders who
rative around 9/11, allowing children to make real-world connections to these words. Each of the five videos features a guest with a personal connection to 9/11, including an 11year-old girl whose grandfather responded to the attack on the Pentagon, and former FDNY Fire Commissioner Salvatore Cassano, who was the Citywide Tour Commander on 9/11. The interactive segments are designed to get kids up and move, while helping them process and reflect on this event in an age-appropriate way. “This project does more than teach history,” Stagnaro said. “It honors the bravery of those who made the ultimate sacrifice and helps preserve their legacy. Every firefighter who serves their community today should strive to be worthy of the sacrifices made by those who responded on September 11, as well as the countless firefighters who continue to serve with that same devotion to duty. By helping young people understand what happened and why it matters, we fulfill our promise to never forget.” “We urge those in the fire industry to speak to their own school districts, community leaders oughs, and in partnership with the city’s and legislators to view and help to disseminate Department for Early Childhood Education. the materials that we have provided free of With its signature approach of intentional move- charge on the website, said Paintiff.” Firefighters, Educators, Nonprofits Help ment and the power of words, each video is framed around a specific theme (ANNIVER- Children Learn About 9/11. What is OOPA’s World of Words? OOPA’s World of Words is an early childhood educational video series that uses intentional physical movement and language as an entry point to learning. The classroom program is currently being implemented in multiple New York City public schools, with an expansion scheduled for this September across all five bor-
‘The words we want them to learn and appreciate in an ageappropriate way are ANNIVERSARY, EMERGENCY, HERO, MEMORY, and SERVICE’