SEE OUR AD ON BACK COVER!
The Pennsylvania Edition PUBLISHING SINCE 1993
HOME SUBSCRIPTION - $36/YEAR
WWW.1RBN.COM
FEBRUARY, 2014
PARADISE HITS SECOND ALARM
FRANK ROBINSON
Paradise Fire Department from Lancaster County was alerted to a fire at an Amish workshop on Esbenshade Road on December 24th. Crews went to work laying a long supply line with a tanker shuttle set up in this non-hydrant area. - See full story on page 18
Join our Team of Dispatchers Paging with a Rewards Program! PORTER TWP FIRE- PAGE 42
Visit our website to fill out an application.
www.1rwn.com
Welcome to the Pittsburgh Fire Rescue & EMS Expo!
PAGE 2
February, 2014
Three alarm row home fire on last day of year
ADVERTISER INDEX A guide to finding great companies
Company
Page
AB Inflatables USA
17
All Hands Fire Equip.
5,15
Apparatus For Sale
44
Automan Diagnostics
21
California Casualty
33
Campbell Supply Co.
1,48
C.A. Reed Epoxy Floors
23
Classified Page
46
Comedy Works
40
Dalmatian Fire Equip.
37
Emergency Designz
32
FDIC
31
FireDex First Priority
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
9 10,13,18
Footage Rescue Prod.
25
Industrial Safety
21
Kimtek
Mid Atlantic Rescue
JUMP TO FILE #010814104
posure home worsened and the fire extended into the next door residences. The second alarm was ordered. The fire chief ordered additional hose lines onto the roofs of exposure buildings. The extreme cold and snowy weather put a harsh strain on the operating firefighters. Water from hose lines began to freeze and made the fire scene hazardous. One firefighter fell through the floor and had to be assisted. Incident command ordered the third alarm for additional manpower. The fire conditions were under control in the exposure homes and firefighters moved into overhaul mode. The crews had the fire under control in less than two hours. The second and third alarm firefighters were released before
FRANK ANDRUSCAVAGE
1:00 p.m. Firefighters remained until 3:00 p.m. The state police fire investigator, Shenandoah police and fire marshals investigated the cause of the fire. The fire chief reported that there were no serious injuries. The three alarm fire destroyed two houses and damaged two
other row homes. Shenandoah, Frackville, Ringtown and Lost Creek EMS crews provided rehab services. The Red Cross Emergency Response Unit assisted the firefighters and displaced residents. - STEPHEN BARRETT
SGS Architects Engineers, Inc. Carlisle, PA
7
Long Island Mega Show Marco Equipment
Shenandoah, PA. On December 31st at 9:50 a.m., the Shenandoah Fire Department, Mahanoy City West End Rescue 993 and Shenandoah Ambulance were dispatched to 112 South Grant Street for a house fire with possible entrapment. Police and EMS found smoke coming from the front of the row home. The fire was spreading quickly and began to move throughout the two and a half story home. Firefighters attempted to enter the home, but were forced off the porch. Firefighters quickly knocked down the venting flames and deployed hose lines into the home. Firefighters advanced hose lines to the second floor of the exposure home. West End Rescue 993 assisted with RIT operations. The exposure attack crews stretched hose lines into the attics, where they found heavy heat and smoke. The smoke conditions in the first ex-
27
19,29 43
Mobile Radio Service 16,45 Pittsburgh Fire Rescue
47
Raymond James
22
SGS Architects Silent Call Comm.
2 20,41
Task Force Tips
3
Ultra Bright Lightz
14
Waterways
39
We Cut the Glass
11
Turning Visions into Reality Architecture and Engineering Services Feasibility Studies Master Planning Construction Services Fund Raising Grant Writing
CORPORATE INFORMATION 1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - Pennsylvania edition - Vol. 18 No. 2 - is published monthly, 12 times a year for $36 per year by Belsito Communications, Inc., 1 Ardmore Street, NY 12553. Periodicals Postage Paid at Newburgh, NY and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore Street, NY 12553. No financial responsibility is assumed by this newspaper to publish a display, classified, or legal ad or for typographical errors except of reprinting that part of the ad which was omitted or in error. Omissions or errors must be brought to A division of: the attention of the newspaper during the s a m e month of publication.
845-534-7500 • (fax) 845-534-0055 info@belsito.com
Call for a FREE Consultation Bruce E. Garner, Managing Principal 717-249-4569 x224 bgarner@sgsarchitects.com www.sgsarchitects.com
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
February, 2014
Smooth Bore Performance from a Combination Nozzle…
MidForce Nozzle
...REALLY! TFT’s Mid-Force dual-pressure automatic nozzle offers you a choice of maximum flow, or maximum reach and penetration from a single nozzle.
The low pressure mode provides target fire flows with greatly reduced nozzle reaction, and the integrated slide valve produces a turbulence free straight stream, even when gated.
Visit www.tft.com to view a complete video overview of the Mid-Force Nozzles
www.tft.com • 800 348-2686
To learn more about how you can dramatically improve your initial attack fire flow operations automatically, contact your local TFT dealer today.
®
Page 3
PAGE 4
February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
LUKE PATTERSON
Parade for fire chief Fire companies across Berks, Lancaster, and Montgomery Counties lined to give a tribute parade to Ron Wentzel. Ron Wentzel served the City of Reading as Chief 4 and Western Berks Fire Department as Deputy 18. Ron is battling cancer and this parade was made as a surprise to say thank you for his service. Afterwards, crews stopped in to talk.
DENNY L CLOPPER
One of the three vehicles with entrapment involved.
Three die in three vehicle accident in Franklin County It was about 3:15 p.m. on Saturday, January 5th, when Franklin County 911 dispatched a reported auto accident with entrapment on Interstate 81 southbound at the 21, Greene Township, between Shippensburg and Scotland in Franklin County. Box 15-81-7 was alerted sending West End Fire & Rescue, Fayetteville Fire Co., Shippensburg EMS, Fayetteville EMS, West Shore ALS, and Fayetteville ALS.
JUMP TO FILE #010714112
Deputy 15 found a total of three vehicles with entrapment in two of the vehicles and at least seven patients. The box was upgraded to a mass casualty incident, requesting ďŹ e additional BLS units and additional ALS units. EMS units from Pleasant Hall EMS, Chambersburg EMS, Shippensburg EMS, and
Mont Alto EMS arrived along with Letterkenny Army Depot for a additional manpower. Two people were found deceased. Five others were transported to the hospital with minor to serious injuries. One of those transported, later died from injuries sustained. Fire police assisted with trafďŹ c control and detour routes around the scene for many hours. - DENNY CLOPPER
IN SERVICE If you have photos you would like to see in our In Service feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
JESSE SHUTT
Pillow handles Tractor Trailer Fire Pillow, PA. On December 27th at 7:57 p.m., Box 28-1 was dispatched to the 200 Block of Main Street, Pillow Borough for a tractor trailer fire. This brought units from Pillow, Berrysburg and Life Team Medic 6. Chief 28 was advised of multiple calls reporting a tractor trailer on fire and that it was sitting beside another tractor trailer. Lieutenant 26 found light smoke showing from the tractor trailer. Engine 28 stretched a single one and three quarter inch hand line. When crews made entry into the cab of the tractor, the fire had already snuffed itself out. The Pennsylvania State Police are currently investigating the cause of the fire.
LUKE PATTERSON
Reading Fire Department operates this 1996 Spartan Saulsbury Pumper as Reserve Engine 8.
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
February, 2014
Page 5
PAGE 6
February, 2014
1 ARDMORE STREET • NEW WINDSOR, NY 12553
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
Bob Long
845-534-7500 • (fax) 845-534-0055 • News@1stResponderNews.com
EXECUTIVE STAFF PUBLISHER
Joseph P. Belsito (Joe@1stResponderNews.com) ••• GENERAL MANAGER
Kathy Ronsini (Kathy@1stResponderNews.com) ••• PRODUCTION DIRECTOR
Ashley Ramos (Ashley@1stResponderNews.com) ••• MANAGING EDITOR
Heather Pillsworth (Heather@1stResponderNews.com) ••• WIRELESS OFFICE MANAGER
Michelle Belsito (Michelle@1stResponder.com) ••• DISPATCHER RECRUITMENT & RETENTION (Rich@1stResponder.com)
••• OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR
Nicole Roby (Nicole@1stResponderNews.com) EDITORIAL STAFF COLUMNISTS
Rick Billings (Cartoon) Henry Campbell (Staying Safe) Lori Hodgkinson (Firefighter Fitness) Bob Long (Cartoon) John Malecky (Bookshelf, Video) CORRESPONDENTS Adam Alberti • Stephen Barrett • Jason Batz Larry Browne • Amber Bubb • C. Ryan Berridge William Campfield • Denny Clopper John G. England IV • Dale Feehrer Tom Fronzaglio• Paul Garrett • Jeffrey Goldberg Dylan Hoover • Rob Hornaman • Marty Hrinko Roman Isaryk • Ron Jeffers • Douglas Kahn Timothy Knepp • JC Kriesher • Greg Leaman Nick Markowitz • Matt Miles • Kirk Neidermyer David Novak • Larry Penatzer • Terry Ritz Frank Robinson • Ryne Rutkowski • John Semple Patrick Shoop, Jr. • Jesse Shutt Kenneth Snyder • Steve Spies • Bruce Walters Robert Ward • Dennis Wetherhold Jr. • Brian Wozniak
EDITORIAL INFORMATION Join our team of correspondents or columnists! 1st Responder Newspaper welcomes submissions by our readers. Send stories and photos to us at 1 Ardmore St. New Windsor, NY 12553. Or, give us a call or send us an e-mail. If using the mail, please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for all submissions you wish to have returned. Publisher reserves the right to refuse any editorial or advertising material submitted.
845-534-7500 ext. 212 • (fax) 845-534-0055 News@1stResponderNews.com
ADVERTISING INFORMATION If you would like information about how advertising in 1st Responder News can benefit your company call our advertising hotline at:
845-534-7500 ext. 211 • (fax) 845-534-0055 Advertising@1stResponderNews.com
CIRCULATION INFORMATION 1st Responder Newspaper is delivered to all fire, rescue, ambulance stations and hospitals. If you do not receive your papers, please contact our circulation department. Home subscriptions are $36 per year.
845-534-7500 ext. 220 • (fax) 845-534-0055 Circulation@1stResponderNews.com
GRAPHIC DESIGN/MARKETING 1st Responder News’ graphics team will work with you on your adverA division of: tisement free of charge. Additionally, we offer a complete marketing department for all of your printed needs. Whether they are posters, or single sheet handouts, full color or black and white, no one else delivers the high quality work at our competitive prices. As a newspaper in the Belsito Communications Inc. family, 1st Responder News has a state-of-the-art production facility which utilizes the latest scanning technology available. Materials are processed using Power Macintosh G4s. Output is handled on our HP Color LaserJet 8500 to produce the highest quality black and white or color prints on the market.
845-534-7500 ext. 214 • (fax) 845-534-0055
In memory of those who gave all 1st Responder Newspaper honors and remembers emergency responders lost in the line of duty Ohio: James Michael Hill, 52 Rank: Lieutenant Incident Date: November 5, 2013 Death Date: November 5, 2013 Fire Department: Sycamore Township Fire & EMS Department Initial Summary: Lieutenant Hill passed away at home in his sleep. Hill had been on-duty and responded to an emergency incident within 24 hours of his passing. The cause of death is still to be officially reported but initial findings indicate a sudden cardiac arrest.
Pennsylvania: Russ “Rooster” Gow, 58 Rank: First Assistant Fire Chief Incident Date: November 20, 2013 Death Date: November 20, 2013 Fire Department: Factoryville Fire Department Initial Summary: While at the scene of a residential structure fire, First Assistant Chief Gow collapsed from a nature of illness still to be reported. Gow was treated on scene by fellow responders and transported to the hospital where he succumbed to his injury.
Maryland: David Roland Barr Jr. , 64 Rank: Fire Police Captain Incident Date: October 25, 2013 Death Date: November 7, 2013 Fire Department: Community Fire Company of Perryville Initial Summary: While working a traffic control point protecting the scene of a motor vehicle accident, Fire Police Captain Barr was struck by a car and seriously injured. Barr was treated at the scene by fellow responders and transported to the hospital where he succumbed to his injuries almost two weeks later.
West Virginia: Charles A. Pierson, 76 Rank: Fire Chief Incident Date: December 7, 2013 Death Date: December 7, 2013 Fire Department: Southern Jackson County Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: After responding to the fire station for the report of a motor vehicle accident, Chief Pierson suffered a medical emergency and collapsed while boarding the first due apparatus. Although fellow responders came to his aid, Chief Pierson passed away in the fire station from a nature of injury still to be reported.
New York: James C. Goodman, Jr., 52 Rank: Lieutenant Incident Date: November 11, 2013 Death Date: November 11, 2013 Fire Department: Nedrow Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: Lieutenant Goodman passed away while at the fire station from a cause still to be officially reported. According to fire department officials, Goodman was found unresponsive in the exercise room of the firehouse.
Minnesota: Matt Frantz, 42 Rank: Fire Chief Incident Date: December 9, 2013 Death Date: December 9, 2013 Fire Department: Rice Lake Township Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: Chief Frantz passed away from an apparent heart attack within 24 hours of responding to his fire station for a mutual aid fire call.
February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
WHERE ARE THEY NOW? If you have photos you would like to see in our Where are they Now? feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
Over 2000 units in service worldwide!
Proudly Made in the U.S.A.
Proven & Affordable
FRANK ROBINSON
Girard Hose Co. No. 1 runs with this 1993 Spartan/Quality 1500/750. It once saw service at Pottsville, FD Goodwill.
KIMTEK produces multiple premium skid unit designs for the fire and EMS services while keeping in mind quality and price. At KIMTEK we succeed through strong partnerships with our customers and vendors. Every product we sell is assembled and detailed by craftsmen utilizing the best materials and the highest manufacturing standards.
Produced with your safety in mind.
DALE FEEHRER
The Hebron Fire Company operates this 2004 Seagrave 100' rear mount stick that formally served in Baltimore City, MD.
1984-2013 29 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE
KIMTEKRESEARCH.com MEDLITE® TRANSPORT SKID
FIRELITE® TRANSPORT DELUXE
FIRELITE® TRANSPORT DARLEY
FIRELITE® TRANSPORT FOR PICK-UP
FRANK ROBINSON
Rainbow Hose Co. No. 1 of Schuylkill Haven operates a 1995 Freightliner/American Fire Rescue. The unit saw service in Magnolia, Delaware.
Scan our QR-CODE with your smart phone
®
Proud Member
KIMTEK CORPORATION ®
2163 Vermont Rt. 5A, Westmore, VT 05860 888.546.8358 KIMTEKRESEARCH.com
DALE FEEHRER
The Citizens of Avon purchased this 2000 Pierce Dash ( 2,000/750) that previously served in Abington, MD.
PAGe 7
PAGE 8
February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
ANTHONY MICCICKE
Fire strikes home on Christmas Eve
ROBERT R. DEVONSHIRE JR.
A tractor trailer struck a home in the 3100 block of Route 30 Reading, PA. Early into the dayshift on December 24th, the Berks County Communications Center dispatched a box alarm assignment to 1130 Marion Street. With Engine 9 and Ladder 3's quarters two blocks away, a smoke showing report was given immediately by firefighters. Companies arrived to heavy fire showing from the rear of a two and a half story end-of-the-row. Four-one and three quarter inch lines were stretched to both knock down the main body of fire and to check the extension of the fire in the upper floors. The roof was opened above the fire area by ladder companies. All searches proved negative. The fire was placed under control with extensive overhaul at 10:00. The fire marshal's office is investigating. Chief Kemery was in command.
Tractor trailer crashes into Paradise Township home A Paradise Township home is in ruins following an overnight accident on December 13th. A tractor trailer ran off the road and into a home along the 3100 block of Rt. 30 causing two main supporting walls to be knocked down. The residents were asleep at the time of the crash and woke up to find boards and plaster laying on top of them. They also found themselves pushed across the room on their bed because of the impact. The husband and wife both es-
JUMP TO FILE #121313114
caped serious injury and walked out of their home following the crash. The truck driver was transported from the scene for observation. The home had to be torn down due to the structural damage that was sustained from the impact of the truck. Route 30 was shut down to traffic for several hours while the truck was removed from the scene and
the house demolished. Paradise-Leaman Place Fire Company was in command of the scene. The Pennsylvania State Police, Gordonville Ambulance, Lancaster County Rescue Task Force, Lancaster County Fire Police Task Force and several neighboring Fire Companies assisted on the scene as well as Null's Towing did the truck recovery. - BOB DEVONSHIRE
BARBARA WEST
Suspicious fire strikes vacant properties in Lebanon Lebanon, PA. On Saturday, December 21st, Lebanon firefighters found their hands full with a fire reported at Scull and Partridge Streets at 3:45 p.m. Crews arrived at 323 and 325 Partridge Street to fire through the roof of a two and a half story vacant dwelling. Firefighters fought the fire from the exterior due to the decrepit state of the structures. Several of the dwellings have and will be used for firefighter training throughout Lebanon County. The vacant block is part of a city redevelopment project.
JEFF GOLDBERG
Yardley-Makefield Fire Company firefighters assisting the Yardley-Makefield Emergency Unit package the driver for transport to a local hospital.
Car slams into school bus, Lower Makefield Township Lower Makefield Township, PA. Firefighters from the YardleyMakefield Fire Company were dispatched by Bucks County Fire Radio for an accident where a Subaru Impreza slammed into a Pennsbury School District Bus at the intersection of Big Oak and Pine Grove Roads. Rescue 0 went in service securing vehicle hazards and as-
JUMP TO FILE #121513102
sisted the Yardley-Makefield Emergency unit package the driver of the Subaru for transport to a local hospital. The Pennsbury District School bus was empty at the time of the accident.
The driver of the bus was not injured. Yardley-Makefield Fire Company Fire Police conducted traffic control operations at the scene. The Lower Makefield Township Police Department was investigating the accident. - JEFFREY GOLDBERG
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
February, 2014
Page 9
PAGE 10
February, 2014
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
ANTHONY MICCCICKE
High speed car accident breaks utility pole Reading, PA. On Friday evening January 10th, the Berks County Communications Center began receiving calls reporting a high speed accident on Hampden Blvd in the northeast. At 10:19 p.m., a rescue assignment was dispatched to Hampden Blvd and Union Street. Engine 9 arrived on scene to a downed utility pole in the intersection with a heavily damaged vehicle 50 yards further down the Blvd. The driver of the vehicle extricated himself and attempted to call a cab to take him to the hospital. The driver had numerous traumatic injuries was transported by ambulance to RHMC Trauma Center. Companies remained on scene for an hour. Chief Kemery was in command.
Correspondent Contest Sponsored by FF1 Professional Safety Services The readers of 1st Responder Newspaper have helped make www.1rbn.com the fastest-growing Fire/Rescue/EMS site on the web. Information comes from our valued correspondents. Each time you post an entry on our website, your name will go into a drawing for a monthly prize. Only web entries are eligible. The prize for our February editions from FF1 Professional Safety Services is a 5.11 Tactical Job Shirt with the new FF1 logo. Our December editions winner of Fire-Dex FDXL50 Grey leather boots was Jeff Belschwinder from Troy, NY. If your company would like to provide a prize and sponsor our monthly contest, contact Heather at x212.
973-940-3061 www.FF1.com www.facebook.com/FF1Professional SafetyServices
BILL NORRIS
Dwelling fire in Upper Darby On Monday, January 6th, Upper Darby Engine 36, Quint 37, Engine 26 and Tower 74 (RIT) with Medic 24-7 (East Lansdowne) were dispatched to the 400 block of Croyden Road for a dwelling fire. Engine 36 reported smoke showing on the second floor of a two story row home. As Engine 36 stretched in with a one and three quarter inch hose line, Quint 37 took the second floor windows, side A.
JUMP TO FILE #010914103
Engine 26 had the rear alley (and utilities), while the Tower/RIT stood by on side A. Primary and secondary searches were negative and the companies put a quick knock on the fire. Deputy Chief T. Boyce had command. - MICHAEL BAKER
Beat The Budget Blues! Stretch your valuable capital equipment dollars with the Northeast's leading Emergency Vehicle Center! *Sophisticated SUV Conversion Packages* *Specialized Emergency Vehicle Collision Repair* *Renaissance Remounting of your Ambulance or Rescue*
Fast, free estimates for repairs/upgrades of any type or magnitude. We work on all manufacturer makes and models. All services backed by our extensive warranties. A nationwide network of pick and delivery services available.
Contact us at 800-247-7725 www.emergencyvehiclecenter.com
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
February, 2014
Page 11
PAGE 12
February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
TERRY RITZ
Building fire in Upper Hanover Twp. JESSE SHUTT
On January 11, 2014 at 10:30 a.m., East Greenville Fire Co. and several other local fire companies, were dispatched to a building fire at Blommer Choc. plant on Blommer Drive in Upper Hanover Twp. Deputy Chief 38 Rob Shafer reported a fire in the roaster. The fire was extinquished in a few minutes. There were no injuries and only minor damage. Deputy 38 declared it under control and all units returned to their station. Assisting East Greenville Fire Co. were Pennsburg, Red Hill, Green Lane, and Hereford Fire Companies. Also assisting was Upper Perk EMS.
White smoke issues from the house as crews work interior.
Millersburg and mutual aid fight structure fire in cold Upper Paxton Township, PA. At 11:31 a.m. on January 4th, Box 20-2 was dispatched to the intersection of Middle and Miller Roads in Upper Paxton Township for a residential structure fire. Chief 20-1 arrived to a heavy smoke condition and found a two and a half story wood frame farm house fully involved in the 500 Block of Miller Road, requesting the full first alarm plus an addi-
JUMP TO FILE #010414114
tional tanker. This brought units from Millersburg) Elizabethville, Berrysburg, Halifax, Fisherville and EMS from Millersburg and Life Team-Medic 6. Engine 20 pulled multiple hand lines and went into a defensive attack from the start. Engine 26
drafted from a port-a-pond on Miller Road and supplied Engine 20. Engine 20-1 established a fill site at a dry hydrant on Etzweiler Road. Once the bulk of the fire was knocked down, crews moved interior to start overhaul and to extinguish the hot spots. Units were on scene for four hours. - JESSE SHUTT
COMMAND VEHICLES If you have photos you would like to see in our Command Vehicles feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
RALPH LENNON
Head on with two entrapped in the Poconos Lake Harmony, Albrightsville and Kidder Fire Companies along with Lake Harmony Ambulance and Lehighton ALS were dispatched to a two vehicle crash on Route 903 near the Penn Kidder School. Rescue 17 went to work on the first vehicle. The driver's door was removed and the patient’s legs were freed from under the dashboard. Albrightsville Squad 16 took the door on the second vehicle and assisted with patient care.
FRANK ROBINSON
The Lower Swatara Fire Company runs with this 2009 Ford Expedition.
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
February, 2014
Page 13
When Lives Are On The Line Your Vehicles Should Be ...
Conversions to Remounts... We are your Source! First Priority Emergency Vehicles, Inc. is the premier manufacturer of custom and specialty First Responder vehicles. Our clients include Fire Departments, EMS agencies, Police and Federal Government just to name a few. First Priority is dedicated to providing quality “Turn-Key” conversions and designing a vehicle that provides custom solutions to fit any budget.
Meadowlands Hospital, 2013 Chevrolet Tahoe 1st Priority lighting package with Custom Storage Solution.
Purpose built EMS storage cabinets specially designed for your agency’s needs.
Looking for cost effective solutions to your new ambulance needs? Let the remount experts at First Priority give your old ambulance a complete remount package at a fraction of the cost of new. We refurbish/remount all manufacturers make and models with a wide variety of chassis options. Call today to speak with one of our remount specialists.
2013 1st Priority Renaissance Remount Chevrolet G4500 Chassis - Braun Chief XL
Interior Module: All LED Lights inside and out, Multi Plex electrical, Zico Oxygen lift, Corian Counters
SERVING THE WORLD WITH AMERICA’S FINEST EMERGENCY MEDICAL, RESCUE & FIRE FIGHTING VEHICLES
2444 Ridgeway Blvd., Building 500, Manchester, NJ 08759
732.657.1104 • 1.800.247.7725 • Fax: 732.657.7955
www.emergencyvehiclecenter.com
PAGE 14
February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
STEPHEN BARRETT
Historic mansion fire in Foster Township Foster Township, PA. On January 10, 2014 at 8:30 a.m., the Foster Township and Cass Township Fire Departments were dispatched to 81 Hill Road for a possible house fire. The 911 center received multiple calls of the working fire, which was confirmed by police. Dispatched were Minersville EMS, Minersville, Pottsville City, and Frackville Fire Departments. Firefighters found heavy smoke coming from the historic mansion. Crews found smoke and flames coming from the rear of the home. Engine 528 and Ladder 519 deployed hose lines and made an offensive attack. Ladder crews placed ground ladders to access the roof for ventilation. Command assigned additional
JUMP TO FILE #011114111
fire units from Pottsville City to assist with RIT operations. Smoke and fire increased and caused all crews to evacuate. Frackville firefighters assisted the crews in stretching additional large hose lines around the home. Heavy fire conditions consumed the entire home, causing the roof and second floor to collapse. The water pressure from the hydrant was insufficient to supply the multiple hose lines and the elevated master stream. Command ordered two tanker task forces (Schuylkill and Northumberland Counties) to set up a water shuttle system. The additional water supply from the dump site helped
boost the pressure. An elevated master stream was used to penetrate the areas of the collapse where fire was still active. The aggressive exterior attack helped stop the fire from extending to any additional parts of the mansion. The fire was under control in two hours and all hot spots were out with no rekindles. The Foster Township fire chief reported that there were no injuries to firefighters while fighting the fire in icy conditions. The historical mansion received major damage. The low pressure in the rural hydrant system and the snowy winter weather were a challenge to the firefighters and the firefighting operations. - STEPHEN BARRETT
KEN SNYDER
Pen Argyl’s restored Hahn Pen Argyl, PA. For the past two years, area residents have been able to see the Lookout Fire Company's 1949 Hahn 1000/500 lead off the company's annual Labor Day parade. This crowd pleasing white double cab Hahn had been in service in the borough through the 70's. In 2002, the Hahn was purchased by Ronald Perin. He spent the remaining years of his life restoring the pumper with the intent to return it to the fire company. Mr. Perin passed away in 2009, at which time the members of the Lookout Fire Co. continued the restoration work. In 2012, the restored rig was driven in the parade by James Dietrich, the longest serving member of the fire company. In the 2013 parade, a Mars warning light had been found and mounted onto the cab. Thanks to the vision of the late Mr Perin and the hard work of the Lookout members, future generations will be able to appreciate this historic piece.
BRETT MACK
Second floor fire in Reading Reading, PA. On Thursday evening January 9th, B platoon companies were dispatched to the 400 block of South 5th Street for a report of smoke coming from a house. Engine 5 arrived around 8:44 p.m. at 422 South 5th at a three story MOR with smoke showing. Two hose lines were stretched into the dwelling with fire located in a second floor front bedroom. The fire was contained to the
JUMP TO FILE #011114105
room of origin and placed under control at 9:03 p.m. All searches were clear, and no injuries were reported. The fire marshal's office is investigating. Chief Nefos (C5) was in command. - JASON BATZ
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
February, 2014
Page 15
PAGE 16
February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
DALE FEEHRER
Rescue 25, Friendship
Attack 27, Avon
DALE FEEHRER
Four stations merge in South Lebanon Township South Lebanon Twp., PA is located on the outskirts of the City of Lebanon. The township is 21.8 square miles and is home to roughly 10,000 people. It contains both residential communities and heavy commercial industries. The whole township was protected by four different fire stations Prescott, Hebron, Friendship, and Avon. In February of 2013, the decision was made to merge all four stations into one department, the South Lebanon Fire Department. The current plans are to keep all four stations identities as well as the apparatus they operate. Currently the newly formed department operates: four engines, two tankers, one rescue, one brush unit, and one ladder truck. The apparatus used were all built after the year 2000, except for an engine, a tanker, and the rescue. One large item that was changed within the year is that the department now only operates with three chiefs. Before the merger, the township had 12.
JUMP TO FILE #011214108
Other items that are currently being discussed is narrowing down the fleet of apparatus, which currently stands at ten not including the support pieces. Another future discussion is to close some stations and operate from one main station and/or one main station and one sub station. The members I spoke with all agreed that due to limited resources both financially and by manpower, the falling numbers are both making it hard to continue to operate as four and they understand that change is needed. The members remained positive as they continued to discuss options and future plans with the township supervisors. This is the first full year since the merger took place and they still have many things to figure out before buildings are built and apparatus get removed as well as other major changes are made. - DALE FEEHRER
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
February, 2014
Page 17
How’s your Driving? Hazards and emergency situations Part II There are many hazards and emergency situations that can be encountered while driving and one must be aware of what they are and how to quickly react in order to prevent serious injury or death to you, your passengers, or vehicles and their occupants. How would you react to a blown tire, loss of brakes, stuck accelerator or an animal in the road? Do you use additional caution when driving under inclement weather conditions? These are just a few of the driving emergencies and hazards you may encounter when driving your personal vehicle or an emergency vehicle, and how you react could make the difference between loss of control and crash or no crash. The most important thing that you can do is not to panic, and knowing what to do in an emergency situation will keep you from panicking. In most driving emergencies, there will be a brief second or two to think before you act, not much time, but if you have familiarized yourself with how to react to certain events, you will have a better chance of survival. Let’s begin with winter driving hazards in your personal vehicle. Winter brings a shortened number of daylight hours that increases the number of driving hours with reduced visibility. Before heading out make sure you and your vehicle are prepared. Clear any snow that may have accumulated from your vehicle, making sure the front windshield, windshield wipers, and rear window have been cleared of snow and ice. Clear headlights and taillights of any snow or ice and drive with your headlights turned on. The ability to see and be seen reduces your chances of being involved in a crash. Drive slowly and cautiously while driving with the flow of traffic. If someone is driving on your tail, do not endanger yourself by speeding up. When the opportunity presents itself, allow the other vehicle to safely pass and be on its way. You may encounter them later having spun out or in a crash. Drive at reduced speed while maintaining an increased distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you, it will provide a greater margin of safety should you have to stop suddenly. To avoid skids on snow and ice, brake early, carefully and gently. "Squeeze" your brakes in slow, steady strokes. Allow the wheels to keep rolling. If they begin to lock up, ease off the brake pedal. Most vehicles today are equipped with anti-locking brake systems (ABS) that operate automatically and will do most of the aforementioned once you have applied the brakes. Driving your vehicle in a lower gear will give you better traction and improved braking control and
Now You Have an Alternative STAYING SAFE Chief Henry Campbell
reduced braking distance. When sleet, freezing rain or snow start to fall, remember that bridges, ramps, and overpasses are likely to freeze first. Also be aware that slippery spots may still remain after road crews have cleared the highways. If no spray is kicking up from the tires on the vehicle(s) in front of you, it usually indicates ice has formed on the roadway. When traveling on a multi lane highway stay in the lane that offers the least hazardous road conditions, usually the lane with the most vehicles and cautious drivers. Responding to emergency calls during winter can be very treacherous and slow, requiring well maintained apparatus and qualified drivers familiar with winter driving conditions that include driving on ice and snow. Drivers must be alert to hazardous road, weather and traffic conditions which will create delays in responding. Impaired visibility from falling snow, sleet, hail, freezing rain, or fog conditions may be experienced. Streets blocked by snow, stalled and abandoned vehicles, fuel and delivery trucks, will add to the delay in response; enabling the incident to escalate and further endanger the safety of occupants and emergency responders. Many apparatus now use permanently installed traction chain systems and sanders to increase traction and complete a safe response. The use of full tire snow chains may be required in deteriorating conditions in some regions in order to effect and complete a response. When do you put the chains on the apparatus can be a difficult question for some, but should be based on the weather forecast, present conditions, expected conditions, past experience, and time of day. If you think you should put the full set of chains on your apparatus, go ahead and do it, they can be easily removed if not needed. More importantly, you will rest easy knowing you have done all you possibly could do to effect a safe and complete response. Driving in adverse weather conditions requires planning, patience and reduced speeds. Further, if your apparatus gets stuck in a snow drift, it will require additional equipment to pull you free and you will be of no value to the emergency scene to which you were responding. The NY State Driver’s Manual and Commercial Drivers’ Manual is being used as a reference for some of the information provided in this article. To be continued. Till next time, Stay Safe and God Bless!
PROFILE F-24
Professional Requirements: • • • • • •
Military Grade Orca (CSM) Fabric Reinforced Professional Grade Hulls Unmatched Durability Unsurpassed Performance Customizable Crew Safety
FEATURES: • • • • • • • • •
Reinforced Aluminum or Fiberglass Hull High Volume Drain Scuppers Double Solid Rub Rail Reinforced Tow Eyes Heavy Duty 1670 D-tex ORCA (CSM) Fabric Non-Skid ORCA (CSM) On Top Of Tube 4 Layer Reinforced Seams Life Line On Top Of Tube Non-Skid Flooring
PROFILE A-13S
PROFILE A-13S
PROFILE A-16S
AB Inflatables all new Swift Water Shallow V “AS-Series”. AB is constantly looking at the needs in the First Responder markets. This new versatile use series will get into shallow flood waters without fear of what is below as well as handling the swift waters of rivers or flooded streams. Safety is as important to us as it is to you. Combining the best of all worlds with marine grade aluminum and 1670 D-tex CSM fabric making them the most durable boat on the market. All while protecting your assets. Their open design and a variety of seats and consoles they can be customized for any use.
Tel: 845-918-2100 Dealerships Available in AB INFLATABLES USA Select Markets Fax: 845-368-3760 Professional Inflatables Please Call Us for Details www.ABInflatables.com 57A Lafayette Avenue PROFILE@ABInflatablesUSA.com Suffern, NY 10901
PAGE 18
February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
FVFC#1
Fisherville and mutual aid handle vehicle fire Jackson Township, PA. At 11:39 a.m., Elizabethville Fire Company was dispatched to State Route 225 in the area of the quarry on top of Elizabethville Mountain for a reported vehicle fire. MICU 6-5 and Fisherville Chief 216 found the vehicle to be 1/4 mile back Quarry Road, which made it a 216-3 Box and Company 216 was dispatched at 11:45 a.m. Units arrived on scene to find the cab of a utility truck fully involved. Engine 21 stretched a CAFS handline and went to work extinguishing the fire. Tanker 216
FRANK ROBINSON
JUMP TO FILE #010414113
deployed there CAFS trash line to assist with extinguishment. Due to the vehicle being on a downward angle and the fuel tank being 3/4 full, the fire burned for quite some time until it could be extinguished. Command requested two additional tankers to the scene to assist. - JESSE SHUTT
We Buy Used Ambulances! Unhappy with your trade in price? Downsizing your fleet? All makes and manufacturers considered, cash paid “on the spot.� Free pick up available. Call the Used Vehicle experts at First Priority Emergency Vehicles for a free, accurate and fair appraisal/offer on your preowned ambulance.
Call Today! 1.800.247.7725
FRANK ROBINSON
Paradise hits a second alarm Paradise Fire Department from Lancaster County was alerted to a fire at an Amish workshop on Esbenshade Road on December 24th. Crews went to work laying a long supply line with a tanker shuttle set up in this non-hydrant area. A ladder pipe was set up along with multiple hand lines. The fire was knocked down in two hours with the help of neighboring departments from Bird in Hand, Gap, Gordonville, Strasburg, Ronks, Witmer, Intercouse, Refton, and Bart Twp. Fire Companies responded. The cause was determined to be a faulty heater.
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
Heroes Realty Program found a local veteran his new home just in time for Thanksgiving Cris Bereguette and his family spent the holidays creating memories that will last a lifetime in their new home. They closed just before Thanksgiving and Heroes Realty was proud to make sure the Bereguette’s were home for the holidays. Cris Bereguette, a Jersey City police officer and former Marine, purchased their first home with the help of the Heroes Realty’s Heroes Mortgage Program. The Heroes Mortgage Program provides local heroes, who serve our communities everyday, with a variety of cost-effective mortgage opportunities. Our diverse portfolio includes programs for first-time homebuyers, a range of refinancing options, home equity loans, reverse mortgages and FHA and VA loans. The Heroes Mortgage team is committed to providing discounted fees, low interest rates and many other advantages, not available to the general public.
“It was a really good experience for us,” said Bereguette, 32, who served six years in the Marine Reserves, which included a tour in Iraq. “Heroes Realty really treated us great and helped us with everything. Everything went smooth. I think it’s a great program and we were so happy to be in our home for the Holidays. It made things so much easier.” To get Bereguette and his family in their new home by Thanksgiving, Martin Kaczmarczyk, the Broker of Record for Heroes Realty, arranged to move up the closing date, saving them another monthly rental payment on their old apartment. It’s the least Heroes Realty could do for one of the selfless heroes in our community. The Heroes Mortgage Program works with heroes and their families across the country on a variety of real estate transactions. These selfless men and women include firefighters and EMT’s, police officers, members of the armed serv-
ices, healthcare professionals – including doctors, nurses and support staff – and educators. Bereguette took advantage of his VA loan eligibility. Kaczmarczyk is an accredited Military Relocation Professional (MRP) – specializing in the VA loan process. In addition, Kaczmarczyk, volunteer chief of the Wallington (NJ) Fire Department, negotiated the closing costs to be paid by the seller at closing to keep thousands of dollars in the Bereguette’s pocket. There were a few issues found
February, 2014
Page 19
Call 877-541-HERO 877-541-4376 For More Information during the home inspection that needed to be fixed. Kaczmarczyk was able to negotiate a credit for the needed repairs so the Bereguette family actually walked away from the closing with a check from the seller to make the necessary renovations. Kaczmarczyk showed the Bereguette’s more than 20 homes before they found the right one. “It’s a privilege and an honor for us to work with heroes such as Cris Bereguette and his family,” Kaczmarczyk said. “They deserve, among other things, the utmost care, profes-
sionalism and customer service for all they do for us every day. We always do all we can to provide our clients with the best rates and incentives on the market. Our heroes don’t deserve anything less.” Still, Kaczmarczyk wasn’t done yet. He helped arrange a “heroes” discount on the home inspection for additional savings for the Bereguette’s. Just like the heroes we proudly serve, Heroes Realty always goes above and beyond for these brave men and women.
Specializing in providing real estate services to Heroes in our communities
MARCO LDP Apparatus Feature: • • • • • • • •
PTO Driven Pumps up to 500 GPM @ 150 PSI UPF Poly Tanks up to 500 Gallon Hale or FoamPro Foam Injection Systems Stainless Steel Plumbing Akron 8800 Heavy Duty Valves Multiplexed Electrical Systems Large Storage Compt Including Transverse Top Quality Paint
PAGE 20
February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
IN SERVICE If you have photos you would like to see in our In Service feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
For People Who Are Hard of Hearing, Blind, Deaf/Blind,
FRANK ROBINSON
The East Petersburg Fire Company now has a 2000 Pierce Lance Heavy Rescue.
Deep Sleepers & Seniors.
FRANK ROBINSON
Blue Ridge Fire Company now has this 2011 Pierce Dash CF 1500/500/20 F
DALE FEEHRER
The Silent Call Fire Kit is the perfect fire safety warning system for people who are Deaf, Deaf/Blind, and Hard of Hearing as it gives visual and tactile alerts in the event of an emergency.
The Friendship Fire Co., of S. Lebanon Twp operates this 2005 Seagrave engine (1500/2500).
www.silentcall.com Phone: (800) 527-5227 KEN SNYDER
The Lookout Fire Company in Pen Argyl, PA runs this 1998 Spartan/Smeal 1500/1000 as Engine 3211.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
February, 2014
PAGE 21
Looking for Firefighters for Fire Watch and confined space duties **MUST BE WILLING TO TRAVEL! FOR MORE INFO OR TO APPLY... PAUL GARRETT
Jersey Shore announces officers Members of the Independent Hose Company No. 1 in Jersey Shore recently elected their new officers and board members. They are George Collins, Director, Charles (Chunks) Rhinehart, Secretary, Adam Kilpatrick, Safety Officer, Adam Wian, Vice President and Safety Officer, Dennis Kilpatrick, President, Robert Cowfer, Chief, Matt Brown, Assistant Chief, Mike Bletz, Captain 1-3, and Jeremy Frantz, Lieutenant 3. Not shown Mike Kilpatrick, Director and Captain 3, Shawn Hummer, Treasurer, and Brian Fioretti, Director.
Phone: 877-838-8911 Fax: 908-721-0286 Email: info@industrialsafetyllc.net
REQUIREMENTS... •TWIC Card •OSHA 10 •Fire Fighter 1 •HAZMAT Awareness •HAZMAT Operations
•Confined Space Awareness •Confined Space Ops •CPR •First Responder / EMT •Drivers License
24/7 Emergency Line (732) 646-2711
DON WALKER SDFC
House fire in Shermans Dale At 10:22 a.m. on December 4th, the alarm sounded for a house fire at 5386 Spring Rd. in Carroll Township in Perry County. A second alarm was struck right away due to heavy fire and smoke at the south end of town. When crews arrived, it was determined that all were out of the house and accounted for. The fire heavily damaged the house and the Red Cross was notified to assist the family. Crews remained on the scene till 1:30 p.m. doing overhaul and assisting the owner with salvage.
DIAGNOSTICS - SERVICE - PARTS Great prices on OEM Parts Fast turn around on repairs Automan Diagnostics 1021 E Maple St. Lebanon, PA 17046 info@automandiagnostics.com (717) 279-6414
PAGE 22
February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
GOT DROP? KIRK NEIDERMYER
Police chase ends in accident with entrapment involving a police officer At 2:00 a.m. on January 1st, Columbia Borough Fire was dispatched to 3rd Street and Union Street for a vehicle accident with reported entrapment involving a police officer after a police chase. Chief 80 (Ryno) arrived shortly after dispatch and reported no entrapment with two class two patients. Engine 801 and Rescue 804 provided spill control and patient care. This accident was a result of a police chase. Police departments assisting in the pursuit were Columbia Borough, East Hempfield, West Hempfield, and State Police. Assisting Columbia Borough Fire was the Fire Police Task Force 1, and multiple EMS agencies.
Before you hang up your hat, Talk to the DROP Expert . . . • Comprehensive Financial Planning for Sworn Employees • Educational Seminars • DROP & Deferred Comp Analysis • Customized DROP Distribution Strategies
RICK PALMER, CFP® Vice President 2905 Bayshore Boulevard / Tampa, FL 33629 D 813-835-2415 / T 866-347-4482 / F 813-835-2444 richard.palmer@raymondjames.com DAVID MCCONNELL
Firefighters help Salvation Army Athens Township (Bradford County, PA) firefighters volunteered to ring the bell for the Salvation Army on December 21st.
www.gotdropusa.com ©2013 Raymond James & Associates, Inc., member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC
Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP(R), CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER(tm) and federally registered CFP (with flame design) in the U.S.
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
February, 2014
PAGE 23
NICK MARKOWITZ JR. JEFF GOLDBERG
Firefighters from Rescue 0 in service with oil dry controlling fluids leaking from the vehicle onto the roadway.
Interstate 95 rollover in Lower Makefield Township Lower Makefield Township, PA. Firefighters from the YardleyMakefield Fire Company were initially dispatched by Bucks County Fire Radio to a traffic accident involving a Ford Explorer, which was reported to be on fire in the Northbound lanes of Interstate 95 in the area of the Yardley Exit 51 on December 19, 2013. Shortly after dispatch, firefighters were notified that the Ford Ex-
JUMP TO FILE #122013109
plorer involved in an accident was resting on its side with no fire. Yardley-Makefield Fire Company Rescue 0 went in service securing vehicle hazards. The driver was self-extricated and checked out by the YardleyMakefield Emergency Unit.
Troopers from the Pennsylvania State Police and police officers from the Lower Makefield Township Police Department assisted. Yardley-Makefield Fire Company Fire Police in Traffic 0 conducted traffic control operations. The Pennsylvania State Police were investigating the accident. - JEFFREY GOLDBERG
Two vehicle accident in Pittsburgh The city of Pittsburgh has been trying to come up with answers for years now for a very dangerous narrow section of Penn Avenue, which is the scene of many accidents. On the morning of December 16th, a two vehicle accident occurred due to drivers traveling at excessive speed. Motorists appeared shaken, but not seriously injure. A bicyclist was killed right near here this summer by a hit and run drunk driver. Pittsburgh Fire Department first responders were quickly on scene to render aide.
PAGE 24
February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
FVFC#1
Tractor trailer crashes into house, bursts into flames, kills driver
TOM LESZCZYNSKI
Reading Firefighters pose for a picture at the annual 2013 Salvation Army Toy Drive.
Firefighters raise over $2800 for Salvation Army Toy Drive Get your personal copy of
The PA Edition
Reading, PA. Working in one of the poorest cities in America, Reading firefighters see first-hand the effects on families. With many parents unable to afford extra things for their children, the Reading Salvation Army steps in to help. On Friday December 20th, the Salvation Army accepted over $2,800 worth of toys from firefighters.
JUMP TO FILE #071513129
The money was raised through a T-Shirt fundraiser and donations from local businesses. The toys were distributed to local families in time for Christmas. - JASON BATZ
Name:______________________ Telephone:___________________
Reed Township, PA. At 1:11 p.m. on January 14th, Halifax was dispatched to South River Road in Reed Township for a reported accident with injuries. As units from Company 29 went enroute, Dauphin County Communications advised them that the location was changed to a 1/2 mile north of the Clarks Ferry Bridge on South River Road. A Life Team EMS wheelchair van was on scene reporting that a tractor trailer had left the roadway and struck a house and both were fully involved in fire with the driver of the tractor trailer entrapped in the cab. Chief 29 had a heavy smoke column from close to ten miles out and requested the full first alarm. Company 29 immediately went into defensive operations. Perry Truck 2 (Duncannon) placed their master stream in service to knock down the bulk of the fire. Due to the area having no hydrants, a
JUMP TO FILE #011414102
tanker shuttle was started and Engine 38 set up a fill site at a local pond to fill tankers. The driver of the tractor trailer was found to be a Signal 12. Crews spent hours performing overhaul at the scene and crews from River Drive Towing removed the tractor and trailer from the house while PennDot inspected the bridge wall. No one was in the house at the time of the fire. Company 29 was assisted on the scene by Dauphin, Progress, Linglestown, Fisherville, Elizabethville, Millersburg, Harrisburg City, Duncannon and New Buffalo. EMS companies on the scene were Halifax EMS, Life Team EMS, Duncannon and West Shore ALS. - JESSE SHUTT
Address:____________________
IN SERVICE
City: ______________________ State:_____ Zip: _____________ __ $36 for one year subscription __ $60 for two year subscription
Payment method __ Check __ Money Order __ Charge card Card # _____________________ Exp:____________ Signature ___________________ Send payment to: 1ST RESPONDER NEWSPAPER 1 ardmore Street new windSor, ny 12553
Amount enclosed: ______
For Credit Card Orders: just fax this to (845) 534-0055 or subscribe online at
www.1RBN.com
ANTHONY MICCICKE
Firefighters battle fire in Northmont during ice storm Reading, PA. With temperatures in the 30's and freezing rain falling, firefighters were sent to the Northmont section of the city for fire showing from a roof. Companies were on the road at 8:30 p.m. on the evening of January 5th headed for 2234 Northmont Blvd. Engine 9 arrived to a three story semi-detached dwelling with smoke and fire showing. Crews stretched into the dwelling for a fire on the second floor with fire extension into the third. Two more hose lines were ordered stretched into the third floor and exposure building. Firefighters also opened the roof above the fire. The fire was placed under control at 9:00 p.m., with all searches clear. One firefighter was taken to Reading Hospital for minor injuries. The Fire Marshal's office is investigating. Chief Stoudt (C3) was in command.
DALE FEEHRER
The Community Fire Co., of Silver Spring operates this 1993 E-One tanker with a 1500 gpm pump, and a 2500 gallon tank
FRANK ROBINSON
Kinzer Fire Company operates a 2003 Pierce Dash 1750/500 4x4.
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
February, 2014
Page 25
PaGE 26
February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
JEFF MILLER
Domestic attack leads to fire Mahanoy City, PA. On December 11, 2013 after 9:00 p.m., the Mahanoy City Fire Department, Frackville Ladder 43-20, and Mahanoy City Ambulance were dispatched to 1031 East Pine Street for smoke from the front of a row home. Multiple phone calls reported a row home on fire and a fight between a female and male in the street. The dispatcher warned all responding fire units that the scene was unsafe and to await the arrival of police. Mahanoy City Police found dense smoke from the basement of the row home and a female in front of the residence bleeding from a head injury. She informed the police that her boyfriend assaulted her and lit the basement on fire. Police quickly located and took the male into custody. The dispatcher advised all the units responding of scene safety and a working fire. Command found a working fire in the basement. The fire continued to spread quickly and began to move up the interior walls to the first floor of the three story row home. The incident commander quickly had the second alarm dispatched due to the row home building construction. West End’s firefighters deployed hose lines in to the front door of the residence for an offensive attack. Attack crews found heavy fire conditions in the basement. Crews made a quick knock
JUMP TO FILE #010414109
on the fire and stopped its spread. Humane and Citizen’s firefighters deployed hose lines into the front doors of the two exposure homes. Basement walls and ceilings were opened up to check for fire extension. Tower-Ladder 456 sent its platform to the roof of the fire building. Firefighters ascended ground ladders to the windows to make vent openings. Englewood Engine 369 sent its RIT team to the scene. The smoke and fire conditions in the homes improved and the crews had the fire under control in less than a half hour. The fire chief believes the fire started in the basement of the home and was intentionally set. The homes at 1035 and 1029 Street received smoke and water damage. The fire chief reported that there were no serious injuries to firefighters even with the cold temperatures. The assaulted and injured female was transported to a helipad at SCI Mahanoy by ambulance. She was then flown to a trauma center with a serious head injury. Mahanoy City Ambulance, Shenandoah ALS, Ryan Township EMS, and the American Red Cross provided rehab for the firefighters.
STEPHEN BARRETT
Barn destroyed in North Union Township North Union Township, PA. On December 30, 2013 at 6:00 a.m., the Nuremburg-North Union Township Fire Company, Nuremburg Ambulance, Sheppton-East Union Township Fire Department, and Ringtown Valley Fire Department were dispatched to 114 Raricks Road for a possible barn fire. Ringtown Valley Chief 30 found flames coming from a medium sized farm building. The roof of the building collapsed and fell into the basement-garage area. The fire continued to spread and large flames quickly overtook the entire building. The Nuremburg fire chief quickly ordered additional tanker trucks from Beaver Town-
JUMP TO FILE #010414111
ship, Columbia County. The Ringtown Valley firefighters mounted a defensive attack and deployed hose lines to knock down the fire. Nuremburg Ladder 581 went to work advancing its blitz hose line. Tankers from Nuremburg-North Union, Sheppton-East Union, and Ringtown were used to shuttle water to the scene. The smoke and fire conditions in the collapse storage building improved and the crews had the fire knocked down in less than 20 minutes. The fire was placed under con-
trol in less than an hour and required extensive overhaul. Command allowed some personnel to enter the bottom garage to look for hotspots. The fire chief believes the fire started on the first floor of the storage building and reported that there were no injuries to firefighters or civilians. Nuremburg and Shenandoah Ambulance were on the scene throughout the morning and provided rehab services. The garage received major damage and will need to be torn down and rebuilt. - STEPHEN BaRRETT
APPARATUS IN ACTION
- STEPHEN BaRRETT
EMERGENCY AIRCRAFT
If you have photos you would like to see in our Apparatus in Action feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
If you have photos you would like to see in our Emergency Aircraft feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
DENNY CLOPPER
FRANK ROBINSON
LIfe Net 1 and Stat MedEvac land and sit next to each other at a landing zone in Hamilton Township
Paradise, Lancaster County Rescue 47 is seen here operating at a working structure fire recently. The unit a 2004 Spartan/Crimson 1500 GPM pump and a 1150 gallon tank.
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
February, 2014
Page 27
PAGE 28
February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
Christmas night fire destroys home
MICHAEL RHOADS
Dumping the house Lower Windsor Township, PA. At 12:44 p.m. on November 20th, the 42-700 Box was struck for a mobile home fire on the 100 Block of Haven Drive in Lower Windsor. 41 emptied the house in one minute with a staffing of 14. Chief Mack arrived on scene with fire showing. Engine 41 assisted Attack 42 with interior operations. Crews placed the bumper line in service and went to work. Crews assisted in overhaul operations before going available in just over one hour.
A Lancaster County family was left homeless following a Christmas evening house fire. The fire burned the roof completely off the house and gutted the second floor of the house on Jubilee Road in Fulton JUMP TO FILE# 122613112 Township. The attached garage and several vehicles were also a complete loss in the fire that was reported just after 10:30 p.m. The Robert Fulton Fire Company quickly asked for their working fire, bringing additional resources from Lancaster and Chester Counties and units from Maryland. Firefighters hauled water to the scene using a tanker shuttle because the rural area does not have hydrants. Firefighters were initially told there were people trapped in the house. When they arrived, they found that everyone was able to get out. Crews worked on the scene well into the early morning hours of the 26th. A Pennsylvania State Police Fire Marshal was called to the scene to help determine the cause of the fire. There were no injuries. - BOB DEVONSHIRE
ROBERT R. DEVONSHIRE JR.
Firefighters worked to extinguish hot spots on the second floor from the exterior of the home.
APPARATUS IN ACTION If you have photos you would like to see in our Apparatus in Action feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
LUKE PATTERSON
The West End Fire Department operates this 2002 Ferrara pumper as Engine 57.
DENNY L CLOPPER
Horrific horse and buggy accident in Newburg
LUKE PATTERSON
The Mt. Pleasant Fire Department operates this 2001 KME 75' FireStix aerial. (1750 GPM,500 gallon tank).
Three teenagers, all between the ages of 16 and 18, were seriously injured late Sunday evening, November 4th, after the horse and buggy they were riding in was involved in a collision with an SUV. The accident happened at around 10:55 p.m. at the intersection of Paxton Run and Mowersville Roads, Lurgan Township, Newburg, Franklin County. All three teens were airlifted from the scene by two air medical helicopters, Life Lion and Stat Med Evac and flown to a nearby trauma center, all with serious injuries. The female operator of the SUV
JUMP TO FILE #071513129
sustained only minor injuries and was taken to Chambersburg Hospital. The horse and buggy were shattered into many pieces and the SUV sustained heavy front end damage. The roadway was covered with many splintered pieces of wood from the buggy with the front seat thrown several feet onto the roadway. The fate of the horse was unknown, although injured, ran away from the scene in an unknown direc-
tion. Neighboring families were out looking for the horse in fields and along the roadway. State Police of Chambersburg were on the scene investigating the accident. Emergency personnel from the Newburg Hopewell Fire Co., Pleasant Hall Fire Co., West End Fire & Rescue Co. of Shippensburg, Shippensburg Area EMS, Pleasant Hall EMS, West Shore ALS of Shippensburg and Chambersburg, and Fayetteville ALS responded and were on the scene. - DENNY CLOPPER
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
February, 2014
PAgE 29
Vehicle News
DENNY CLOPPER
DALE FEEHRER
DALE FEEHRER
The Penn Township Volunteer Fire Co. of Cumberland The Citizens Fire Co., took delivery of a 2013 Pierce The members of Franklintown took delivery of a 2013 County, Company 50 recently purchased and placed Arrow XT Engine equipped with a 1750 gpm pump, and KME Predator Custom rescue-pumper. (1750/720/20f). a 1,000 gallon tank. into service a 2014 Kenworth tanker.
FRANK ROBINSON
FRANK ROBINSON
KEN SNYDER
The Plainfield Township Fire Company now operates a The Bath Fire Company now operates a 2013 E-One Ty- The Middletown Fire Co. No 1 uses this 2013 Ford phoon 1500/1000/30F. 2013 Freightliner/ERV 1500/1000. 550XL/Ahrens-Fox 4x4 mini pumper with 1500/400/17 as TAC 50.
2006 Ford EͲ450 Horton 553 Powerstroke Diesel, 43,800 Miles, Low Side Entrance, All LED Emergency and Scene LighƟng, Reverse Camera, InvertͲ er, Drug Box, Heat Pad, Side Window w/Dry Erase ShuƩer, Paramedic/ Child Seat, CPR Seat, EQ2 Siren, Loaded with OpƟons, New Tires, Warranty Asking $39,500 OBO
2014 Spartan 4ͲGuys SideͲMount Pumper Metro Star EMFD, Cummins ISLͲ450, Jake Brake, Allison Trans, Stainless Steel Pumper Body, Swing Doors, Hale 2000 GPM Pump, 725/50 Gal. Poly Tank, Front Intake, MIV on all Intakes, 3 Crosslays, 2 Hose Bed PreconͲ nects, 4” Discharge w Flow Meter, FoamPro 2001, TFT ExtendͲaͲGun, AkͲ ron StreamMaster Remote Deck Gun, 10 KW Harrison Generator, Hannay Electric Cord Reel, Zico Electric Ladder Storage, Q2B Siren, Whelen MͲ Series LED LighƟng, LED Compt Strip LighƟng, White over Red Paint Call for Price
PAGE 30
February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
STILL IN SERVICE If you have photos you would like to see in our Still In Service feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
FRANK ROBINSON STEVE GINDER
Lower Swatara Fire still operates this 1975/90 Mack/CF/Ranger Heavy Rescue.
Chief discovers working garage fire Reading, PA. Early Saturday, December 28th, morning members of the C platoon were just beginning their second dayshift when a box alarm was dispatched for the 600 block of North 9th street. With companies responding to a reported garage fire, Chief Serba advised he was diverting to the Front and Buttonwood area to investigate a column of smoke visible in the sky. Moments later, Car 4
JUMP TO FILE #122813102
reported a working garage fire attached to a two and half story endof-row dwelling at 129 West Elm Street. On the east side of the city, Engine 9 reported no fire on 9th street. Apparatus were immediately diverted to Elm Street to assist Engine 7, the lone engine responding.
Two lines were stretched and operating into the fire building and exposure dwelling. All searches were clear, with no injuries reported. The bulk of the fire was placed under control at 9:02 a.m. The Fire Marshal's office is investigating. - JASON BATZ
JESSE SHUTT
Pillow Fire Company still operates this 1982 Hahn, 1,500gpm/1,000 gallons that was purchased from the nearby Elizabethville Fire Company.
STEPHEN BARRETT
Two homes damaged by fire in Minersville Minersville, PA. On December 29, 2013 at 2:50 p.m., the Minersville Fire Department and Minersville Ambulance were dispatched to 424 Pine Hill Street for a possible structure fire. Minersville Police found smoke coming from the front of a three story double home. Minersville Fire Chief 510 found heavy fire and smoke venting from the front of the home. He confirmed the working fire and ordered a RIT team from Pottsville City. Firefighters advanced a blitz fire hose line to the front of the home. Ladder 519 was sent to the roof of the fire building. Ladder 519 conducted horizontal ventilation. Firefighters made an offen-
JUMP TO FILE #010414110
sive attack in the second floor of the home. Incident command requested a second RIT team to assist with RIT operations. The Schuylkill Haven RIT Team responded. South Cass Engine 268 and Llewellyn Tanker 3-30 were placed on standby for Borough of Minersville. Frackville Ladder 4320 and Engine 43-10 stood by for other incidents. Firefighters entered the two homes with additional hose lines. The smoke and fire conditions on all floors of the homes improved. Firefighting crews had the fire
under control in an hour with out and major incident. Firefighters had all hot spots hot out by 6:00 p.m., but remained on the scene to protect from rekindles. The fire chief believes the fire started on the first floor of the home at 424 Pine Hill Street. The two, three story homes received moderate to major damage. The fire chief reported that there were no serious injuries to the residents or to firefighters. The EMS units found all occupants evacuated and later provided rehab to the firefighters. The Schuylkill County Chapter of the Red Cross responded and assisted the displaced residents. - STEPHEN BARRETT
LUKE PATTERSON
Shoemakersville Fire Department operates this 1986 Pierce Arrow with a (1250gpm, 750)
DALE FEEHRER
The Prescott Fire Company still operates this 1970 Hahn (1000/1000).
February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
Indiana Convention Center Presented by
|
Lucas Oil Stadium
|
Indianapolis, IN
Owned & Produced by
|
fdic.com
Page 31
PAGE 32
February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
KEN SNYDER
A view of Centralia's fire station
BRUCE WALTERS
Bedford County’s first structure fire of 2014 On January 2nd at approximately 4:30 p.m., Box 42-1 was sounded for a working structure fire at 712 South Imler Valley Road in King Township, Bedford County. This brought fire units from Bedford County Company 42 (Imler Area), Company 38 (Alum Bank), Company 31 (Bedford), and Company 41 (Southern Cove). Also due on the first alarm were Blair County Station 70 (Claysburg) and Station 86 (Blue Knob). Chief 42-2 (Claycomb) reported a well involved working fire in a two story single family dwelling. Engines 42-15 and 42-12 started making the interior structural attack on the dwelling. With limited man-
JUMP TO FILE #010414101
power and water supply, command requested a second alarm. This brought in fire units from Shawnee Valley Company 37, Everett Company 32. Crews worked for over two hours until overhaul was complete. The fire was kept to the second floor and roof, thus making many of the belongings inside salvageable. Fortunately, this was a vacation home and no one was displaced due to the fire. - BRUCE WALTERS
Centralia’s residents win lawsuit, allowed to stay in burning coal town Centralia, PA. The last six remaining residents and a couple living in a nearby township, have won the right to remain in their homes for the rest of their lives. This decision was reached by the county and the state Department of Community and Economic Development on October 29th. When the remaining residents pass on, the rights of their surface property will be transferred to the commonwealth. At that time, the state will level the property and leave the land vacant. The state had tried to remove the remaining eight residents from the above mine fires, but they sued to retain their property rights. Since1992, the state has struggled to take borough homes via eminant domain, condeming all the
JUMP TO FILE #121613103
buildings. Although there are several dates as to when the fire began, most records seem to indicate it began sometime in 1962. At its height, smoke from the mine fire was visible 24 hours a day coming from fissures in the ground in the borough, PA Rt. 61 and Byrnesville (now an abandoned town). Beginning in the 1980's, some area residents were reporting ill health effects from the byproducts of the fire ie: carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and unhealthy levels of oxygen. In 1984, the US Congress gave more than $42 million for the resi-
dents to relocate, most of whom settled in the nearby towns of Mount Carmel and Ashland. The U.S Postal Service revoked Centralia's zip code in 2002. In 2009, Gov. Rendell started the formal eviction notices for the Centralia residents. Today, this Columbia County borough of Centralia is virtually a ghost town with the bulk of its streets filled with vacant lots. Centralia is now Pennsylvania's smallest borough, but it still retains its borough hall and fire station. It is unknown how long the underground mine fire will continue, however, the town and the abandoned portion of PA Rt.61 have become a tourist attraction. - KEN SNYDER
MEMORIES If you have photos you would like to see in our “Memories” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
MIKE GLORE
The Hampden Fire Company of Reading operated this 1977 Hammerly/Pemfab 1250 gpm pumper as Engine 9. The rig would later be painted red before being disposed of in 1994.
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
February, 2014
Page 33
PAGE 34
February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
FACES OF PENNSYLVANIA’S EMERGENCY SERVICES To see your action shots in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
MATT MILES
Captain Michael Lawrence and Fireman Mike Lipsett from Truck 32 after working a 2nd alarm fire.
JASON BATZ
Cumru Township Firefighter Jeremy Brubaker poses with Spring Township Firefighter Tony Romano
JASON BATZ
Junior Firefighter Dylan Matz of Greenfields Fire Company of Berks County poses with Santa Claus
BARBARA WEST
Lebanon Bureau of Fire Safety Officer Bruce Daub at 323 and 325 North Partridge Street.
MATT MILES
Captain Floyd of the Harrisburg Bureau of Fire running incident command at a multiple alarm fire.
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
February, 2014
Page 35
PAGE 36
February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
JASON BATZ
Child perishes after fire on Elm Street Mahanoy City Fire Department
JEFF MILLER
The members of the Humane Fire Company of Mahanoy City.
Reading, PA. On Friday, January 3rd at 4:28 p.m., the Berks County Communications Center dispatched a box alarm assignment to 1141 Elm Street. Firefighters were repeatedly advised there was a child trapped on the third floor of the dwelling, as the communications center was receiving multiple calls. Engine 1 arrived minutes later with smoke showing from a two and a half story MOR, with an individual on the roof. Chief Lessar advised the boy was still trapped and on the third floor. A hose line was stretched into the dwelling, with firefighters from Tower 1 and Engine 9 aggressively searching the third floor.
JUMP TO FILE #010414102
The unconscious child was located and removed to the first floor of the structure to begin resuscitation efforts. The child was eventually transferred to a Western Berks EMS unit and transported to Reading Hospital. The fire was placed under control at 4:53 p.m.,with no further injuries reported. The fire marshal's office is investigating. Unfortunately, even after the valiant efforts by firefighters, the child succumbed to his injuries. - JASON BATZ
names Person of the Year Mahanoy City, PA. On Friday, December 18, 2013, the Mahanoy Fire Department held their annual Christmas Party at the Good American Fire Company. One tradition of the Christmas Party every year is to naming of the firefighter of the year. The Department Chief Randy Kalce first welcomed everyone to this year’s party and thanked everyone of their dedication to the department.
JUMP TO FILE #010214125
He then named the winner of the Mahanoy City Fire Department Firefighter award. This year’s award went to the Assistant Fire Chief of the Humane Fire, William Killian II. Assistant Chief Killian was handed the award by last year’s award recipient Thomas Ward. Chief Kalce recognized Assis-
tant Chief Killian’s dedication to the Mahanoy City Fire Department for 45 years of service. Killian assumed the role of Operations Officer for many large fire incidents that took place in the past year. Assistant Chief Killian then posed with the rest of his Humane Fire Company at the end of the night for a group picture. - STEPHEN BARRETT
ON THE LITER SIDE If you have photos you would like to see in our “On the Liter Side” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com
JEFF GOLDBERG
2014 officers announced for Newtown Fire Association Newtown, PA. The 2014 Newtown Fire Association line officers and administrative officers have been announced. The 2014 line officers are Chief 45 Carl Forsyth, Battalion 45 Brian Gerhard, Battalion 55 Matthew Gerhard, Captain 45 Nick Weaver, Lieutenant 45 Steven Gentile, and Chief Engineer Robert Adams, Sr. The 2014 administrative officers are President William W. Fabian II, Vice President Zack Dunkelberger, Secretary Ethan Crivaro, Treasurer Warren Dallas, Trustee Rob Sutton, Trustee Chris Jones, Trustee Charles Keller, Trustee Shawn Keen, and Trustee Ray Pugh.
DOUGLAS KAHN
Gettysburg Truck 1 on it's way to pick up goods and gifts for the needy from the residents of Gettysburg, PA with Mirena Kahn, age 7, and Evan Kahn, age 9, waving.
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
February, 2014
Page 37
PAGE 38
February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
IN SERVICE If you have photos you would like to see in our In Service feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
FRANK ROBINSON STEPHEN BARRETT
Second alarm on coldest day of year Shenandoah, PA. On January 7, 2014 at 7:30 a.m., the Shenandoah Fire Department, Mahanoy City West End Rescue 993 and Shenandoah Ambulance were dispatched to 200 South Ferguson Street for a house fire. Police found thick smoke coming from the front of the double home. The fire was spreading quickly and began to move throughout the two and a half story home. It threatening to jump to adjacent structures. Intense flames were seen venting from the front windows. Shenandoah Fire Marshal 745 ordered the second alarm, bringing Mahanoy City West End Fire Company Engine 465, Englewood-Butler Township Engine 369, Shenandoah Heights-West Mahanoy Township Engine 881, Frackville-Goodwill firefighters, Lost Creek EMS and Frackville Ambulance. A supply line was dragged down the street. The squirt sent its ladder to the roof of the home. Firefighters attempted to enter the home. The first and second floors became well involved in fire and vented out the front. The attack crews were forced to attack the
JUMP TO FILE #010814110
fire defensively. Crews quickly knocked down the venting flames. Firefighters deployed hose lines to the rear of the home from Squirt 745. West End Rescue 993 sent its manpower for RIT operations. EMS units on the scene learned of a possible trapped male in the exposure home on the B side. Columbia firefighters advanced hose lines from Squirt 745 to the second floor to search for a possible victim. The search crew found heavy fire conditions with the ceilings collapsing. The fire had spread through the wall into the exposure home. The fire conditions worsened. Command ordered all personnel out for a PAR check. In minutes, the conditions on the roof worsened. The roof crew was ordered off the roof for their safety. Chief 740 ordered all firefighters to make a defensive attack with large hose lines and portable monitors. Squirt 745’s elevated master stream was placed into
service and flowed water into the collapsing roof. The fire continued to overtake the two homes and made the structure unstable. The main body fire was knocked down by 10 a.m. Firefighters reentered the heavily burnt out home to finish extinguishing hot spots and the walls were opened up. The crews had the fire entirely under control in three hours. Firefighters remained on the scene till 2:00 p.m. A number of frozen hose lines were taken back to the station by pickup trucks to be thawed. The extreme minus zero temperature put a harsh strain on operatons. Water from hose lines froze and made the fire scene hazardous. Shenandoah, Frackville, and Lost Creek EMS provided rehab. The Red Cross Emergency Response Unit assisted the displaced residents. Ryan Township EMS deployed their rehab tent to warm firefighters. The state police fire investigator was requested to determine the cause. The Shenandoah fire chief reported no serious injuries to firefighters or residents.
Red Lion Leo No.1 Fire Company operate a 2008 Pierce Arrow XT Puc 1500/750/25.
DALE FEEHRER
Philly operates this 2009 KME Engine designated as Engine 66
- STEPHEN BARRETT DENNIS WETHERHOLD JR.
WHERE ARE THEY NOW?
East Stroudsburg, PA. The Acme Hose Company of East Stroudsburg operates this 2012 Pierce Velocity 100' rearmount tower as Tower 21. Tower 21 is equipped with a 2,000 gpm pump and 300 gal tank.
KEN SNYDER
RUSSELL CURLEY
Engine 19-2 of the York Township F.D. is a 1994 Seagrave 1500/750. It originally ran with McSherrystown, Southeastern Adams Volunteer Emergency Services and Glen Rock.
Tobyhanna Army Depot runs with this 2006 ambulance at the Fort Tobyhanna Army Reserve Base.
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
W AT E RW AY S
OF
February, 2014
Page 39
S O UT H W E S T PA , L L C
Fire Hose , Hard Suction & Ladder Testing Eight Reasons to use Waterways WR 7HVW \RXU GHSDUWPHQW路V KRVHV and ladders: 1. Totally eliminates fire department liabilities 2. Compliant with NFPA & OSHA 3. Will save you time. 4. Safer 5. We handle the admin records, accessible to the Chief 24/7 6. Eliminates Damage to your Equipment 7. We remove and load hose to your standard 8. ISO Quality CompliantUS07/1177
, */ 0+ ' of '-,!/ +, PA! has + , tested +, '. * 3.5 %"$$"'& , 'ft of !'+ ! * +-suction ,"'& &and'. * Waterways Southwest over million hose/hard , ' *'-& $ *+ladders ,' '. to * over 250 "* Fire ( *,% &,+ "& in PA, WV, OH & and ! over 34,000 ft of ground Departments + /NFPA $$ + as ,! well !'+as the & hose $ * % ladder &- manufacturers ,-* *+ * )-"* ,! , $$ !'+ $ VA. The and require that all&hose
*+
+!'-$ , +, should &&-be$$0tested 11 annually. , */ 0+ Waterway & , +, -(can ,' test up to , '20,000 !'+ "&ft '& and ladders of hose0
W A TE RW A Y S OF S O UT HW E S T P A 3254 South Park Road Bethel Park, PA 15102
in one is done to the new , +,"& "+ day '&. All ,'testing ,! & / +, &2013 * +NFPA standards ! !'+ "+ with " ", an $$0officially * '*
&
with full 1962 Each & +, employed %( ,' experienced 1* )-"* crew % &,+ +"& understanding , */ 0+ ,'of, NFPA +, 0'-* !'+Standards. ! * +- ,"'& requirements. Using Waterways to &, $ hose *+ is /"$$digitally * -(recorded . $- $ and ,"%stamped '* 0'-*to NFPA ( *,% &, ,' '%($"+! %'* "%('*, test your suction ladders will free up time -for your , +#+ & ,*hose/hard "&"& , */ 0and "+ (*'( *$0 "&+-* & valuable $$ ' '-* + * depart$" * , more tasks"&and training. 0 ment *$0 to ' accomplish % , 1+, & important * + '* %'* '*% ,"'& &Waterway (*" "& is($properly + '&,In- , -+ ." sured and all of our gauges are calibrated yearly. To meet NFPA standards For more (!'& '* % "$ , */ 0+ ' '-,!/ +, & * ( "* *'-& $ *+ + / $$ information and pricing please contact us via phone or e-mail. Waterway of South-
Phone: 412-841-2501 E-mail: dbongiorni@waterwayinc.com
$$
west PA, can repair ground ladders as well. /& * &, '& "'*&" Owner: Dante R. Bongiorni
PAGE 40
February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
Laugh your way to the bank with a stand-up comedy fund-raiser
MATT MILES
Harrisburg City second alarm plus special calls On January 11th at 3:58 p.m., the Harrisburg Bureau of Fire was dispatched to 1927 North Second Street in the 1-3 Box for a possible structure fire. As units were checking up so were the calls, county then advised of “numerous callers”. Chief 37-2 advised of a working fire. Wagon 3 and Tower 2 found fire showing from a large duplex taxpayer. The fire had extended heavily into the B exposure, which was also a large duplex with fire showing. Captain Miller established the command and immediately struck the first alarm, putting the county units on standby and bringing in Tower 3, Wagon 4 and York County Rescue 69. Chief Enterline assumed command soon thereafter. With all hands working and the fire still doubtful, a second alarm was requested, bringing in Engines 30 and 37-1, Trucks
JUMP TO FILE #011314103
32 and 50, Rescue 44 and Cumberland Air 13. Command special called Truck 34 and Engine 2-13 for manpower. Units stretched multiple attack lines, opened up on multiple floors and worked the interior through several cylinders. All three city trucks went in service on side alpha and multiple ground ladders were thrown by York Rescue 69’s approach to RIT. This stubborn fire took a little over one hour to control. All hands on scene worked extremely hard and remained on scene for about two hours with overhaul and salvage. - MATT MILES
WHERE ARE THEY NOW? If you have photos you would like to see in our Where are they Now? feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
Who needs to laugh more than the Fire Companies ---the first responders who deal with dangerous circumstances each and every day? There’s an innovative concept for fund-raising developed by Joey Novick, who is a stand-up comedian and the Fire Commissioner in his hometown: Stand-up comedy shows. Fire companies can get much-needed laughs and profit financially as well. Novick's company, ComedyWorks, provides all-star headline comedians from HBO, Comedy Central, Showtime, Last Comic Standing, and the Tonight Show. Novick’s been producing comedy shows since 1977, and has experience producing shows with such comedians as Jerry Seinfeld, Rosie O’Donnell, Larry The Cable Guy, and Tim Allen. "The comedians were very funny, and very professional," wrote Mark Bruhmuller, Fire Chief of the Churchtown Fire Company of New York. “Joey Novick did an excellent job. Everybody loves to laugh, and it's a great deal of fun." ComedyWorks produces more than 300 shows a year, almost 150 of those for emergency service organizations. The money these shows can
VENDOR TIDBITS Notes from the emergency service business community
raise varies, depending on things like the number of tickets sold, how they're priced, the amount spent on promotion and whether food and drink are available. "Mostly companies produce shows in their own facilities, which may hold 300–400 people," says Novick. "We'll put together a show for them that will bring in comedians from major comedy clubs, with a headliner from HBO, Comedy Central, or the Tonight Show. The feature performer will be someone who's headlined the comedy circuit: Catch a Rising Star, the Improv, the Comedy Store. The host of the show will be a comedian who's very high-energy, like a gameshow host, to get the audience warmed up. A triple headliner show!” The Somerset Fire Company of New Jersey produces two fundraisers a year through ComedyWorks. "We've done about ten shows so far, and it's been great," says Mike Rein-
beck, who coordinates the shows for the 65-member volunteer department. "A friend of mine who had used Joey told me, 'This guy books really good acts.' So, we did the first show, everything was great, and we've been doing shows with Joey ever since." "I find their people to be very funny," agrees Adam Hubney, chief of the Atlantic Highlands Volunteer Fire Department in New Jersey, which books comedians through ComedyWorks for its annual dinner. "We have a professional comedy club in our county, and the quality is just as good." Comedy Works provides a 30-page ‘How-To’ guide that assists organizations through the comedy show production and warns of mistakes to avoid. "We make sure they follow everything in the guide," says Novick. "If a company has never done this before, it gives you everything from you need to know. We make sure that things get done right. Clients who follow the guide always do very well and tend to make money.” For information on Comedy Works, call 1 (888) 782-4589, go to www.comedyworks.org or e-mail joeynovick@earthlink.net.
Comedyworks Entertainment! Stand-up Comedy Show Fund-raising Comedians from HBO, Showtime, Comedy Central, Last Comic Standing, The Tonight Show
“Featured in the 1st Responder News, VolunteerFD.Org, EMSMagazine.Com, ABC News, and NY Times.” “Outstanding Comedy Show! Best fundraising night we have ever had!” Somerset Fire Company, NJ
Comedyworks Entertainment!
w w w. c o m e d y w o r k s . o r g call toll free: 1(888)782-4589 e-mail: JoeyNovick@earthlink.net FRANK ROBINSON
Lewistown Fire operates a 1994 Seagrave which saw service in Frederick,MD.
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
February, 2014
PAGE 41
FLASHBACK If you have photos you would like to see in our Flashback feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
1 PAUL GARRETT
The damaged buggy sits alongside the roadway as rescue personnel help the injured.
One airlifted after horse and buggy crash One woman was airlifted to Geisinger Medical Center near Danville and another was taken to Jersey Shore Hospital after their horse and buggy was hit from behind on Route 44 in Limestone Twp. Sarah Yoder, was driving the JUMP TO FILE # 011613105 buggy with her mother Susie Yoder at around 2:45 Thursday afternoonm January 16th, on northbound Route 44, when a black Chrysler Town and Country minivan struck the left rear of their buggy. The mother and daughter were heading to their home on Baier La. According to the driver of the minivan, he never saw the buggy as he was driving past the old Nippenose Elementary School in Limestone Twp. The impact crumpled the buggy and threw the two women out onto the ground. The horse was seen traveling north on the roadway and was finally found about 1/4 mile away near the Oval Methodist Church. The animal looked unharmed, but the mother, Susie Yoder, was airlifted by Lifeflight to Geisinger due to the severity of her injuries. PSP were on the scene investigating the accident. Nippenose Valley Volunteer Fire Department along with both Jersey Shore Fire Departments and Jersey Shore EMS, responded to the scene. - PAUL GARRETT
June 1, 2012 RUSSELL CURLEY
On October 20, 2012, the Covington Fire Company received a call for a working for at Bill's (Ace Hardware) store. They required mutual aid from Moscow, Spring Brook, Madisonville, Dickson city, Elmhurts, Coolbaugh Township and Gouldsboro.
ONLY THE SILENT CALL SIDEKICK II SIGNATURE SERIES HAS BUILT-IN SUPERVISION.
Built-In Supervision allows the Sidekick II Signature Series to monitor Silent Call smoke dectectors for low battery, range/distance, outside interference and other system issues.
Does D oes your department nt provide standard smoke detectors? Why not provide de Smoke detectorss for special populations: People Hearing. popu ulations: Seniors, Pe eople who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing g. vailable. Free on Site TTraining. raining. Grant Funds aree A Available.
A better etter way to stay in touch h
TTM
(800) 572-5227 ww.silentcall.com m www.silentcall.com
PAGE 42
February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
IN SERVICE If you have photos you would like to see in our In Service feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
STEPHEN BARRETT
Commercial fire in Porter Township Porter Township, PA. On January 8, 2014 at 4:00 p.m., the Porter Township Fire Department, Tower City Fire Company, Lykens tower ladder, Williamstown tanker and Tower City Ambulance were dispatched for a commercial building fire at 1720 East Grand Avenue, in Reinerton. The 911 center received multiple phone calls that the rear of K&E Precision was on fire. Reinerton firefighters found smoke and flames coming from the rear of the two story machine shop. The fire continued to spread quickly through the building and moved to the front of the structure. Command requested that the second alarm and additional units be dispatched. Wiconisco, Pine Grove North End, Hegins, Tremont, Donaldson, LlewellynBranch Township, Newtown, Dauphin and Elizabethville Fire Companies responded. Command requested tankers to set up a tanker shuttle system.
JUMP TO FILE #071513129
Muir Engine 650 made an offensive attack to stop the fire. Reinerton’s engine drafted from a portable dump tank. The engine crews backed up the first attack crew with additional hose lines and attacked the fire in the rear. The Lykens Tower Ladder 22 sent its Platform into the air. The smoke and fire in the building increased and the crews were evacuated. The heavy fire conditions in the front and rear made the building unsafe. A defensive attack was ordered. Tower Ladder 22 used its master stream for the burnt out roof. Smoke and fire in the building decreased and =crews made a second attack inside of the building. Tankers were needed due to the loss of water pressure in multiple hydrants.
Second and third alarm firefighters deployed additional large hose lines to support the defensive attack. The smoke and fire in the building decreased and the crews continued overhaul. Pine Grove staged to assist with RIT operations. The fire was under control in three hours. The extreme cold weather conditions made for a long evening. A number of firefighters suffered from cold weather exposure and had to be rewarmed. A number of local EMS units provided rehab. The fire was under control and all hot spots were out with no major rekindles by 6:00 p.m. The fire chief reported that the building was a total loss and the adjacent houses received minor damage. The state police investigator was requested to investigate the fire.
KEN SNYDER
Chief 1851 of the Se-Wy-Co Fire Company in Lower Saucon Township, Northampton County uses this 2008 Ford F-250 4x4.
KEN SNYDER
The New Kensington Bureau of Fire uses this 2003 Ford Excursion as a command vehicle.
- STEPHEN BARRETT
FRANK ROBINSON
The Yoe Fire Company operates a 2007 Pierce Enforcer 1500/750/40.
STEPHEN BARRETT
Jersey Shore woman slides off driveway Freda Showers of Saladasburg was leaving her mother's home at 1008 Cement Hollow Road in Piatt Twp. on January 11th at around 10:00 p.m. when the Chrysler Town and Country minivan she was driving began to slide down her mothers driveway. "I was coming down the hill and I hit the big tree there and it (the minivan) just went like slow motion into the ditch," explained Showers. The minivan landed on Cement Hol-
JUMP TO FILE #011214118
low Road resting on the drivers side. "I thought it had cinders on it. I thought I was okay, but the rain must have froze it," remarked Showers. When rescue personnel arrived, they could not immediately remove Showers from her vehicle. Crews had to remove the windshield and the passenger seats to gain access to
the woman. After about 30 minutes, she was removed through the back of the mini van. Luckily, Showers sustained no injuries during her ordeal. “I'm fine, I'm just shook up, but I'm fine," she told responders. Jersey Shore EMS along with Independent Hose and Citizens Hose responded to the rescue. - PAUL GARRETT
FRANK ROBINSON
Saxton Fire Company operates a 2004 Pierce Lance 1500/750.
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
February, 2014
Page 43
380 / 430 / 470 series
rescue One inflatable boats
SolasTM Reflective safety Panels
(800) 737-2831 www.RescueOne.com
HYPERTEX HIGH ABRASION RESISTANCE
Double layer tube bottoms
O
NJ Office: 1-877-622-MARS Headquarters: 301-682-9681
www.midatlanticrescue.com
Standard Features: * * * * * * * * * * * *
Pressure relief valves to prevent over inflation Low maintenance aluminum sectional floor Multiple Cargo attachment points External carry handles for easy transport and launching Double layered tube reinforcements for additional protection Interior grab ropes for easy Tactical exit/entry Molded Transom with dual motor plates 1100-denier reinforced Hypertex™ Deep inflatable V-keel with a rub strake protector Self bailing drain system Transom “D” lifting rings (all stainless hardware) Includes Storage bag / Seats / Oars / Foot pump / Repair kit
(optional) Quick Fill Kit leafield valves #qfc7
Specifications:
Model | Length (ft/in) | beam (ft/in) | Weight | Air Chambers | Tube Size | Capacity (lbs/pers) | Max HP (weight) | Shaft Length | Storage size (in) | JP-380-SR JP-430-SR JP-470-SR
12’ 6” 14’ 2” 15’ 6”
5” 8” 6” 5” 6” 5”
216 lbs 253 lbs 275 lbs
5+Keal 5+keal 5+keal
18” 20” 20”
1720 / 6 2395 / 8 2640 / 10
30 hp / 165 lbs Short (15”) 55”x28”x26” 40 hp / 185 lbs Short (15”) 56”x30”x28” 50 hp / 225 lbs Long (20”) 56”x30”x30”
PAGE 44
February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
APPARATUS IN ACTION 66 years of service
If you have Apparatus in Action, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
The Aspinwall Fire Department responded to a detail to be with and honor one of their own, Firefighter Bill May. Firefighter May has served in the department for 66 years. Members pitched in for a few gifts and a holiday card and gathered in the spirit of brotherhood to bring Firefighter May some holiday cheer while he is convalescing after suffering an injury. Firefighter May's son, David, also serves with Station 102, keeping the family of firefighters tradition going. Up until he was 80 years old, Firefighter May remained active. Now 88 years old, Firefighter May still offers words of wisdom and wise cracks to the younger members. ANDY MARSH
BARBARA WEST
Lebanon Truck 18 operates at vacant dwellings at 323 and 325 Partridge Street
Notes From the Firehouse ON THE BOOK SHELF by John Malecky
Notes From the Firehouse By D.E. McCourt Available from: FSP Books & Videos 188 Central Street, Suite #4 Hudson, MA 01749-1330 1-800-522-8528 www.fire-police-ems.com Price: $14.95 This is a soft cover book measuring 5 ½ inches by 8 ½ inches. It has 17 chapters within 213 pages. Each of the chapters is titled. It is memoirs from a firefighter, who served with the Melrose, Massachusetts Fire Department. He retired in 1998. His father served as a captain in the Medford, Massachusetts Fire Department and his brother is also a captain there. With most of these types of books, they are stories remembered by firefighters, who served in large fire departments. Melrose, in contrast, is a small city with three stations. At the time of these stories, they ran with three engines, one truck and a rescue (an ambulance.) There are parts in these chapters where lack of manpower and overtime is men-
tioned. Apparently they took their toll. I recently went to their website to find that the headquarter’s station no longer has an engine, so they are now down to two and one! Melrose distinguished themselves many years ago by buying the first metal aerial ladder that the Peter Pirsch Fire Apparatus Company built. It was in a Pirsch ad when Melrose replaced it years later with another one. Getting into the book more, each chapter is a particular story either about an incident, a person, an event or simply circumstances. If you were a paid firefighter, your memory may jog when you read about details to another station, or being the new guy in your own station and the memorable harassment you went through which we recall and all laughed about later. Some of the stories are pretty grim and graphic for so goes the experiences of being called to an emergency scene. Some of the calls could never be captured by the imagination because they go beyond it! In the book there are times when mutual aid comes into play for other cities or from other cities. If you are familiar with the greater Melrose area you can probably figure out who these other towns are but other than that they are not specifically named. I think it is a good read when you have the time!
AppArAtus For sAle CHECK OUT ALL OF OUR USED VEHICLES ONLINE! VISIT WWW.1RBN.COM AND CLICK ON “VEHICLES”
2011 Freightliner Heavy Rescue Truck Freightliner Model M2106 Chassis. Wynn Fire Rescue Body 18’ (7) Utility Compartments with (10) Roll-up Doors. Mileage: 3,438; Cummins ISL 8.3 330 HP Engine (92.8 hours); Truck is un-used, never placed into service, and in New condition. Location: Tansboro, NJ Contact Andrew Hayes at 516-345-6302 • ahayes@nasset.com
2012 Rescue 1 rescue demo is available for immediate delivery. 16’-3” Walk-Around/International 4400 four-door chassis, five-man seating, and MaxxForce 9/315 hp engine. PTO 35 kw generator, 9000 watt Will-Burt light tower, fold down ladder to (4) upper storage compartments, 9000 lb portable winch and much more. For additional details visit our Website: www.rescue1mfg.com or contact Mike Marquis at (800) 752-8786, (732) 223-1411 (in NJ), mmarquis@plcustom.com.
For Sale First Priority Renaissance Horton Type III Ambulance on a Ford E 450 Gasoline Chassis. New Electrical System, New Interior LED Lighting, New Exterior Emergency LED Lighting, Plus much more... Call us at 800-247-7725 for additional information. $95,000 Ford Government Pricing Concession discounts available on these units, as applicable.
IMMEDIATELY AVAILABLE!!! 2013 Ford Expedition EL Oxford white, 4 wheel drive, high idle control, ignition override Running boards, auto eject shoreline, computer mount Whelen Lights, FPEV Command Cabinet. Call 1st Priority today at 800-247-7725 for more information and pricing!
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
RON BANKS
Reading firefighters handle fire at paper mill Reading, PA. On January 6th the Berks County Communications Center dispatched companies to Sealed Air Corporation at 450 Riverfront Drive for a report of a fire in a ventilation system. Engine 5 and Chief Nefos arrived at the property with employees attempting to contain a fire in a paper rolling machine. Car 5 had firefighters stretch a 300 foot hose line into the building, with remaining firefighters sent to the roof. The fire was eventually contained to the roof area around the ventilation system. The fire was placed under control at 5:33 pm.
IN SERVICE If you have photos you would like to see in our In Service feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
DALE FEEHRER
Truck 69 of Hempfield a 1991 Spartan-LTI, 75' Quint
LUKE PATTERSON
The Western Berks Fire Department Operates this 2001 KME 4wheel drive with a seating capacity for six firefighters
February, 2014
PAgE 45
PAGE 46
February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
LITTLE BIG GUYS If you have a photo for Little Big Guys, please upload it to our website, www.1stResponderNews.com, email it to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
FRANK ROBINSON
DALE FEEHRER
FRANK ROBINSON
Washington Fire Company of Ashland operates a 1986 The Franklintown Community Fire Company operates Gibraltar Fire Company operates a 1979 Jeep CJ 7 22/98. Chevy brush truck. It has a 75 gpm pump and a 200 gal- this 1985 Chevy Brush unit with a 190 gpm pump and a lon tank. 150 gallon tank.
PAGES
Command Fire Apparatus 1-866-238-6688 • Glenn@sellfiretrucks.com
Insurance Inspectors Wanted Our firm seeks experienced individuals for PT positions in the following states: ME, NH, VT, MA, RI, CT, NY, NJ, PA Candidates with previous insurance experience, home inspection or firefighting background preferred to perform commercial and residential insurance inspections. Forward resume to: NEIS, Inc., Attn: Zach Grant, 908 So. Meriden Rd., Cheshire, CT 06410. Fax: 203-271-7921 or email: zgrant@neis1.com.
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
February, 2014
Page 47
PAGE 48
February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - PA
YOUR PARTNER IN THE FIRE AND RESCUE VEHICLE BUSINESS SINCE 1966.
AVAILABLE FOR IMMEDIATE DELIVERY Features: • Spartan Metro Star Medium Four Door 6 man cab • Advanced Protection System • 450 HP Cummins ISL9 • Allison 3000 EVS Transmission • 24” front bumper extension • 6” Swivel front suction • Front bumper discharge and hosewell • Hale DSD 1500 GPM single stage pump • Stainless steel plumbing • Two - 1.75” crosslays • One – 2.5” crosslay • Aluminum high side body • PAC-TRAC Tool Boards • 750 gallon water tank • Rear Direct tank fill • Rear ladder Storage compartment • Rear Suction hose Storage compartment • 6K Harrison Hydraulic Generator • Cord Reel W/200’ of 10-3 Cable • 12 Volt LED Brow and Scene Lights • LED Warning Light Package • Backup Camera
CALL 1-800-800-3959 TO SCHEDULE A DEMO We appreciate your business and look forward to providing you with quality products and excellent customer service.
www.campbellsupply.com