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DON SCICCHITANO

MOUNT CARMEL, PA - On Sunday, March 15th at 8:16 p.m., a Box Alarm was transmitted for the 100 block of South Spruce Street in Mount Carmel for a reported commercial structure fire at the former Columbia Building Supply property in Northumberland County. Chief officers arrived to find a large commercial building with heavy fire showing and rapidly escalating conditions -

S e e full story on p a g e 14

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May/June, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

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CORPORATE INFORMATION 1st Responder N ew s (ISSN 1525-1683) - Pennsylvania edition - Vol. 30 No. 3 - is published bi-monthly, 6 times a year for $24 per year by Belsito Com m unica tions, Inc., 1 Ardmore Street, NY 12553. Periodicals Postage Paid at Newburgh, NY and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to 1st Re sponder News, 1 Ardmore Street, NY 12553. N o fi nancial responsibility is assumed by this newspaper to publish a display, classified, or legal ad or for typo graphical errors except o f reprinting that part o f the ad which was omitted or in error.

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Old Lycoming and Loyalsock U nits Respond

March 10, 2026 — Ambridge Firefighters were formally recog nized by the Ambridge Fire Chief, Borough Council, Mayor, and Borough Manager for their swift and courageous response to the Ambridge Towers fire that occurred on the morning of February 7th. Assistant Chief Gorecki, Firefighter Turner, and Firefighter Miller were honored for their decisive actions in the critical early moments of the incident, where their life-saving efforts and rapid property preservation played a vital role. Working alongside Am bridge and Harmony Police officers, the firefighters responded within minutes and operated under dangerous conditions, put ting their own safety at risk to protect residents and contain the fire. Additional support from mutual aid departments proved es sential, with Beaver Falls firefighters performing CPR and crews from Sewickley and Harmony Township assisting in the rescue of a victim. Officials praised the coordinated efforts of all re sponders, highlighting the teamwork and professionalism dis played during the incident.

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WILLIAMSPORT, PA - Old Lycoming Township Volunteer Fire Company’s Tanker and Squad 14 assisted Loyalsock Volun teer Fire Company No. 1 during a working structure fire, Feb ruary 26th. Tanker 14 completed two water runs while crews performed exterior fire attack operations. Citizens Hose Company No. 5 provided station coverage for the region dur ing the response. A total of 12 members either responded to the incident or staffed the station.

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May/June, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

MEMORIAL BOARD If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Memorial Board”feature please upload them on our website www.lRBN.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com

DALE FEEHRER

PATRICK GRIFFIN

Reading Ladder 1 and 3 set up an arch for President Emeritus of Reading Firefighters Local 1803, Jonathan Gowombeck's, funeral.

cn nail]

DALE FEEHRER

ALAN HOFFMAN

This procession is leaving the Lehigh County Coroner's Office and Forensic Center on April 6th for Walnuttown Fire Chief Jeff Buck and Assistant Fire Chief Robert Shick. Both were killed in the line of duty while searching for a missing woman, who was later located. The incident occurred on April 4th at 5:57 p.m., while the men were operating a UTV near the northbound shoul der of Route 222 in Richmond Township (Berks County), when they were struck head-on by a southbound Toyota Camry, which swerved off the road. The crash remains under investigation by the Fleetwood police, the Berks County Coroner's Office and other agencies. Mulitiple Fire and Emergeny personnel and equipment were at various spots along the procession route to pay their respects to the fallen Firefighters.

5th Annual Light Up The Night at HMC HERSHEY, PA - During the evening of March 10th, close to 100 emergency vehicles paraded through the Penn State Hershey Medical Center campus for the 5th annual "Light Up The Night". The event brings numerous counties worth of fire, police, and EMS vehicles to par ticipate in an evening parade that slowly passes by the Penn State Health Golisano Children's Hospital. Patients, along with family and staff, are able to view the parade vehicles and bright lights as it passes by. As the parade concludes, many of the participating organizations will line up in front of the main hospital to provide a scenic view to other parts of the hospital. Excellent work to the organizers, participants, and staff of the HMC for your dedication, hard work, time, and heart.

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

May/June, 2026

PAGE 5

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May/June, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

- g m a g jfr

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In memory of those who gave all

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EDITORIAL STAFF

Arizona: J. Hank Hester, 70 Rank: Firefighter/Equipment Operator Incident Date: September 8,2025 Death Date: September 8, 2025 Fire Department: Southwest Area Incident Initial Summary: On the afternoon o f September 8,

Arizona: Brenna Kulikowski, 31 Rank: Firefighter/Paramedic Incident Date: Sept. 14, 2025 Death Date: Sept. 14,2025 Fire Department: Timber Mesa Fire and Medical

2025, Firefighter/Equipment Operator J. Hank Hester

District

collapsed while performing suppression repair at the

Initial Summary: Firefighter/Paramedic Brenna Ku-

Dragon Bravo Fire near the Grand Canyon North Rim in

likow ski and Firefighter/EMT Damon Thom pson

Arizona. Line paramedics performed CPR at the scene,

were in an ambulance returning to their station after

Management Team 3

COLUMNISTS Rick Billings (Cartoon) Bob Long (Cartoon) John Malecky (Apparatus, Bookshelf) Didymus McHugh (Chaplain's Corner) Fernando Villicana (Chaplain's Corner)

CORRESPONDENTS Jim Alercia •Jason Batz •Dale Feehrer •Ted Hodgins •Alan Hoffman •Roman Isaryk •Ron Jeffers •Regina Jelsfc. •William King •JC Kriesher •Chuck Lowe

but Firefighter/Equipment Operator Hester could not be

leaving a hospital from an interfacility transport.

resuscitated. The suspected cause o f death is a cardio

W hile on State Route 260, another vehicle traveling

vascular emergency.

in the other direction collided head-on with the ambu lance. Firefighter/Paramedic Kulikowski and Fire

•John Malecky •Eric Rasmussen •Lucas Richardson •Terry Ritz •Frank Robinson •Don Filippo Scicchitano •Shane Shifflett •Sharon Siegel •Darin Smith •Ken Snyder •Eugene Weber Jr.

EDITORIAL INFORMATION Join our team o f correspondents or columnists! 1st Responder Newspaper w elcom es subm issions by our readers. Send stories and photos to us at new s@ lstrespondernew s.com . Or, give us a call or post it directly to www. lrbn.co. Publisher reserves the right to refuse any editorial or advertising

2025. The cause o f death has yet to be determined.

Georgia: Preston Fant, 53 Rank: Master Firefighter Incident Date: Sep. 8, 2025 Death Date: Sep. 8,2025 Fire Department: DeKalb County Fire Rescue Initial Summary: At approximately 1:30 p.m. on Sep

fighter/EMT Thom pson were both pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver o f the other vehicle also passed away from injuries sustained in the co lli sion. Investigation into the incident continues.

ter Firefighter Fant was injured approximately 15

Arizona: Damon Thompson, 21 Rank: Firefighter/EMT Incident Date: Sept. 14, 2025 Death Date: Sept. 14,2025 Fire Department: Timber Mesa Fire and Medical

minutes into the interior attack. Rescue operations and

District

8 4 5 -5 3 4 -7 5 0 0 ext. 211 • (fax ) 8 4 5 -5 3 4 -0 0 5 5

lifesaving efforts began immediately on scene. Master

Initial Summary: Firefighter/EMT Damon Thompson

A d v e rtis in g @ 1 s tR e s p o n d e rN e w s .c o m

Firefighter Fant was transported to the hospital, where

and Firefighter/Paramedic Brenna Kulikowski were in

he later succumbed to his injuries.

an ambulance returning to their station after leaving a

material submitted.

8 4 5 -5 3 4 -7 5 0 0 ext. 2 1 2 • (fax) 8 4 5 -5 3 4 -0 0 5 5 N ew s@ 1 s tR e s p o n d e rN e w s .c o m

ADVERTISING INFORMATION If you w ould like information about how advertising in 1st Responder News can benefit your com pany call our advertising hotline at:

CIRCULATION INFORMATION 1st Responder Newspaper is delivered to all fire, rescue, ambulance stations and hospitals. I f you do not receive your papers, please contact our circulation department. Hom e subscriptions are $24 per year.

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GRAPHIC PESIGN/MARKETING 1st Responder N ews’ graphics team will work with you on your advertisement free o f charge. Addition ally, w e offer a complete marketing department for all o f your printed needs. Whether they are posters, or

a division of:

g^s^aL m am idJU fJ Usw co mmunications, inc.

single sheet handouts, full color or black and white, no one else delivers the high quality work at our competitive prices. A s a newspaper in the B elsito Communications Inc. family, 1st Responder News has a state-of-the-art production facility which utilizes the latest scan ning technology available. Materials are processed using Power Macintosh G4s. Output is handled on our HP C olor LaserJet 8500 to produce the highest quality black and white or color prints on the market.

8 4 5 -5 3 4 -7 5 0 0 ext. 2 1 4 • (fax ) 8 4 5 -5 3 4 -0 0 5 5

tember 8, 2025, Master Firefighter Preston Fant along with other units from DeKalb County Fire Rescue re sponded to a warehouse fire in Lithonia, Georgia. Mas

hospital from an interfacility transport. While on State

Texas: Stephen Scott, 62 Rank: Firefighter/Paramedic Incident Date: Sept. 14, 2025 Death Date: Sept. 17,2025 Fire Department: Houston Fire Department Initial Summary: On September 14, 2025, Firefighter/Paramedic Stephen Scott suffered a medical emergency while transporting a patient to a local hospi tal. Firefighter/Paramedic Scott was admitted to the same hospital and subsequently transported by Life Flight to a medical center where, despite surgery and continued treatment, he passed away on September 17,

Route 260, another vehicle traveling in the other direc tion collided head-on with the ambulance. Firefighter/EMT Thompson and Firefighter/Paramedic Kulikowski were both pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver o f the other vehicle also passed away from injuries sustained in the collision. Investigation into the incident continues.

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

May/June, 2026

PAGE 7

Lim erick FD A ssists in Quick V ehicle Rescue O perations in New Hanover Twp. NEW HANOVER TWP., PA At 9:12 PM. on March 21st, the Limerick Fire Department was dis patched to assist Station 37, New Hanover Fire Co., for a vehicle res cue on Swamp Pike in New Hanover Township. Reports stated that a vehicle was flipped over and into the guardrail with one J u m p to f iie # 0 40 72 61 1 9 occupant inside. Captain 51, I Chief 51, Fire P o m lice, and Rescue 51 responded. Deputy 37 confirmed with the county that there was entrap ment. A pickup truck was flipped on the driver's side, settled be tween trees, and a heavily dam aged guardrail. Crews from 37 and 51 arrived and quickly stabilized the vehicle before attempting to extricate the victim. The sunroof was broken, and the occupant exited with assis tance, sustaining only a minor in jury, before being turned over to EMS for evaluation. Crews cleared their equipment from the scene and swept dirt and debris from the road. Limerick crews were made available within the hour.

- REGINA JELSKI

REGINA JELSKI

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May/June, 2026

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.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com.

DALE FEEHRER

The Clearfield FD have placed this 2012 Pierce Arrow XT (2000/500/105') into service as Quint 1. This piece formally served as Quint 370 with the Penfield Fire District in Penfield, NY.

WILKINS TOWNSHIP VOL FIRE CO. 3

Quick Response Contains Oven Fire in W ilkins Township Home

FRANK R00INS0N

Sunbury Friendship Hose Co. operates a 1994 KME Rescue. The unit once saw service at North Merrick, NY FD.

WILKINS TWP., PA Wilkins Township Volunteer Fire Company No. 3 was dispatched at approximately 7:00 p.m. on March 5th, just as members were b e ginning their monthly business meeting, for a re ported possible structure fire in their first due area. Tower 303, Engine 303, and Squad 303 responded with a total o f 15 members. U pon arrival, 303 Assistant C h ief established command and crews encountered a residence filled with smoke caused by an oven fire. Firefighters quickly ex tinguished the fire using portable extinguishers, checked for exten sion, and ventilated the structure. The incident was contained to the oven with no additional damage to the home. Mutual aid companies also re sponded to assist. Officials cred ited the rapid response and coordinated efforts for preventing the fire from spreading beyond the point o f origin.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM DALE FEEHRER

The Needmore Fire Company now operates this 2003 Spartan/Crimson (2000/500/Amkus) as Rescue-Engine 55. This piece previously served the Maytown-East Donegal Twp. Fire Com pany as Rescue 79.

WILKINS TOWNSHIP VOL. FIRE CO. 3

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

May/June, 2026

PAGE 9

CHERRY CITY VOL. FIRE COMPAHY

Vehicle Crashes Into Structure on Summit St. in Pittsburgh PITTSBURGH, PA - Companies were dispatched to the 0 block of Summit Street on March 31st for a report of a vehi cle that had crashed into a structure. Rescue 260 (RQ) ar rived to find a pickup truck that had collided with the front porch of a residence, causing significant structural damage to the porch area. Crews from 260-191 worked to stabilize the structure, utilizing a Paratech strut to shore up the com promised porch and prevent further collapse. Once the scene was secured, responders confirmed that no injuries had occurred to either the vehicle’s occupants or residents of the home. The incident was successfully mitigated, and units ensured the structure was left in a safe condition be fore clearing the scene.

ALAR HOFFMAN

A. F. D. Participates in 67th Annual St. Patrick’s Parade ALLENTOWN, PA - On March 22nd, the Allentown Fire Department honor guard and Engine 14 participated in the 67th annual Allentown St. Patrick's Day Parade.

PAGE 10

May/June, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

Lim erick Crews Contain Brush Fire A fter Burning Four-Wheeler Ignites Trackside Area LIMERICK, PA - At 6:13 PM. on March 31 st, the Limerick Fire Department was dispatched to a reported field fire on Longview Rd., along the train tracks by the power plant. While en route, dispatch advised o f multiple callers re porting a brush fire along the tracks, later updated to a report o f a fourwheeler on fire that had extended into the surrounding brush. Deputy 51 arrived and confirm ed that an abandoned four-wheeler was on fire and that the flames had spread to nearby brush along the train tracks. Field 51 -1, Field 51 2, Squad 51, Fire Police, and Limerick PD responded. The Squad 51 crew arrived first and began initial suppression efforts with water cans. A minute or so later, Field-51-1 arrived and provided a steady water supply, later hooking up to Field 51-2 when it arrived for more water. Deputy 51 requested that dispatch notify the railroad companies to halt incom ing trains due to fire hoses crossing the tracks until op erations were clear. Crews extinguished the fires and soaked the area to avoid any chance o f rekindling before m ov ing the burnt four-wheeler to the opposite side o f the tracks. All were made available within the hour.

REGINA JELSKI

- REGINA JELSKI

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REGINA JELSKI

1st Responder Newspaper - PA_______________ May/June, 2026____________ PAGE 11

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May/June, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

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.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com.

ALAN HOFFMAN CITIZENS VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY

The Citizens Volunteer Fire Company's firefighters helped Station 54 put out a working barn fire in the 9300 block of Hickory Road, March 20th. As part of the mutual aid assignment, Engine 56, Tanker 56, and Supply 56 responded to assist with suppression operations. Because of the remote location and restricted access to hydrants, Supply 56 set up a drafting operation from a pond close to Webb Road and Piedmont Road in order to supply water continuously.

ALAN HOFFMAN

Engine 8 of the Upper Macungie Fire Department on the scene of a mobile home fire at 8852 Breinig Run Circle in Upper Macungie Township.

Read more features on our w ebsite! www.1rbn.com

Perkasie Fire Co. 100th Anniversary of Line of Duty Deaths RICHLAND TWP., PA - The Perkasie Fire Company held an event on the evening o f April 1st to mark the 100th anniversary o f the line o f duty deaths of Firefighters Jacob Crouthamel and Willis Sames. Firefighters Crouthamel and Sames were riding on the side boards of a Perkasie fire truck responding to what was believed to be a fire at the Bush Hotel in Quakertown on April 1, 1926. As the tmck was responding to the scene, the driver made an evasive maneuver to avoid another vehicle on the road which caused it briefly to go off the edge o f the roadway. Firefighters Crouthamel and Sames encountered a telephone pole on the side o f the road which caused them to be thrown from the truck. Firefighter Crouthamel died at the scene and Firefighter Sames died a short while later. A procession o f fire apparatus and police vehicles left the Perkasie fire house at 7:35 p.m. This was the same time the call came into the Perkasie Fire Company. The proces sion proceeded through the borough and took the same route as the tmck carrying Firefighters Crouthamel and Sames. Once arriving at the lo cation o f the incident, there was a ceremony in remembrance o f those brave men which included the un veiling o f a roadside marker that was placed at the scene o f the inci dent in their honor. The location of this incident was on Station Road in Richland Township, outside o f Quakertown.

- ALAN HOFFMAN

JACOB CROUTHAMEL WILLIS'SAMES LINE OF DUTY DEATHS

PERKASIE FIRE FIGHTERS LOST THEIR LIVES RESPONDING TO A FIRE CALL AT THE BUSH HOUSE HOTEL IN QUAKERTOWN. THE FIRE TRUCK THEY WERE .RIDING WAS FORCED TO LEAVE THE ROAD TO EVADE A M OTORIST WHO FAILED T O Y E IL D T H E pH T -O F -W A Y

APRIL 17,1926

ALAN HOFFMAN

Ist Responder Newspaper -PA

May/June, 2026

PAGE 13

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May/June, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

Massive Fire Destroys Commercial Property and Damages Adjoining Homes in Mount Carmel MOUNT CARMEL, PA - On Sunday, March 15th at 8:16 p.m., a B ox Alarm was transmitted for the 100 block o f South Spruce Street in Mount Carmel for a re ported commercial structure fire at the former C o lumbia Building Supply property in Nort humbe rl and County. C h ief officers arrived to find a large com m ercial building with heavy fire showing and rapidly escalating conditions. A working fire was quickly transmitted, follow ed by multiple additional alarms, in cluding tankers, as the fire spread throughout the structure. Due to the size o f the build ing, tanker task forces were re quested, establishing a rural water shuttle operation to help supply master streams. Crews deployed multiple handlines and set up lad der pipes and portable monitors as operations shifted defensively. Approximately 30 minutes into the incident, a partial struc tural collapse occurred, prom pt ing the evacuation o f any operating crews and reinforcing a full defensive strategy. Fireground operations fo cused on exposure protection, preventing extension to nearby hom es and buildings. Utilities were secured, and power was shut down in the surrounding area for firefighter safety. Mutual aid com panies from across Northumberland County and surrounding counties re sponded, with crews operating for several hours to bring the fire under control and continue over haul operations. Units remained on scene until approximately 9:00 a.m. the fo l lowing morning. No injuries have been reported, and the fire is cur rently under investigation.

- DON FILIPPO SCICCHITANO

D0NSCICCHITAN0

A firefighter feeds hose line to an interior crew accepting to extinguish and search the building.

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

May/June, 2026

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May/June, 2026

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.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com.

ALAN HOFFMAN

Rescue Engine 31 of the Western Salisbury Fire Company is a 2017 Spartan/Marion 1500/750.

LOY A LSOCK

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S ingle-V ehicle A ccident w ith Entrapm ent on Horseshoe Pike in Honey Brook Twp. HONEY B ROOK TWP., PA On April 7th at 8:41 P.M., Station 33 along with EM S were dis patched to the 2200 BLK o f H orseshoe Pike in Honey B rook Township for a reported motor v e hicle accident. Crews were still on-station follow ing an earlier in cident, with both C h ief 33 and Rescue 33 making the response roughly 60 seconds from dispatch.

C h ief 33 arrived to find one vehicle on its side, resting up against a residence, with wires dow n and the veh icle’ s operator trapped. The incident was up graded and C h ief 33 established the “ H orseshoe Pike Command”.

Crews confirmed the working area was safe from all overhead haz ards before starting the extrication process. Personnel from R33 and E331 stabilized the vehicle and swiftly extricated one patient, who was transported to a local area hospi tal.

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DALE FEEHRER

The Loyalsock Fire Company operates this 2013 Spartan/Toyne (2000/750/40F) as Rescue 18.

FRANK ROBINSON

Schuylkill Haven Hose Co. 2 operates a 2008 Seagrave Squad Unit 63-62. HBFC

May/June, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

PAGE 17

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PAGE 18

May/June, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

PATCH OF THE MONTH If yoi have photos you would like to see in our “Patch o f the month “feature please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com .

ALAN HOFFMAN

Commercial Structure Fire in Upper Macungie Twp. PROVIDED

This patch belongs to Williamsport Regional Airport, Station 19, in Lycoming County, PA.

UPPER MACUNGIE TWP., PA - On March 18th at 10:22 a.m., the Upper Macungie, Lower Ma cungie and Cetronia fire departments and Cetronia EMS were dispatched for a commercial structure fire at 8014 Industrial Blvd., at Trinity Glass. Once on the scene, they had a fire in the paint booth with a sprinkler activated and fire extended to the roof and smoke in the building. Additional manpower and a tower ladder were requested to the scene to assist with the fire in the roof. The Weisenberg Fire Company was requested to the scene with their wherehouse fans to help get the smoke out of the building.

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May/June, 2026

PAGE 19

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May/June, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

Firefighters Knock Down Vehicle Fire at Busy Penn Hills Shopping Center PITTSBURGH, PA - Stations 227 and 223 were dispatched to the Penn Hills Shopping Center for a reported vehicle lire on April 6th. Penn Hills Fire Marshal (PHFM) and Penn Hills P o lice (PHPD) arrived first and confirmed a working vehicle fire that was not threat ening nearby struc tures or other vehicles. Engine 227 (227EN) ar rived shortly after, and crews began knocking down the fire. En gine 223 (223EN) arrived on scene and supplied water to 227EN to support suppression efforts. Firefighters extinguished the remaining hotspots and ensured the vehicle was fully cooled before clearing the scene. The incident was mitigated without injuries, and all units returned to service ap proximately 40 minutes later. The cause o f the fire remains under in vestigation.

-1RN NEWS TEAM

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LITTLE BIG GUYS If you have photos you would like to see in our Little B ig Guys feature, please upload them on our website www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com .

May/June, 2026

PAGE 21

WHERE ARE THEY NOW? If you have photos you would like to see in our Where are they N ow? feature please upload them on our website www. 1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com .

ALAN HOFFMAN ALAN HOFFMAN

Utility 25 of the Upper Macungie F. D. on the scene of a commercial structure fire on March 18th at 8014 Industrial Blvd at Trinity Glass in Upper Macungie Twp.

The Red Hill Fire Co. placed a new-to-them rescue engine in service as Squad 71. It is a 2004 Pierce Dash 2000/750 with a 30-gallon foam cell. It formerly served with the East Brandywine Fire Co.

FRANK ROBINSON

Cumbola Fire Company operates a 2004 Ford F450 155/300/1 OF Brush Truck.

CHUCK LOWE

Alton, New Hampshire, purchased this 1999 Spartan/Luverne/Aerial Innovations 1750/500/75' aerial in 2021. It previously operated as Sharpsburg Truck 265.

Submitting photos and press releases is EASY!

Lindsey@ 1strespondernews.com CHUCK LOWE

Whitehall operated a 1990 Mack CF688FC with a Baker 75' Aerialscope, designated as Truck 301. The department sold this apparatus to Mount Mourne, North Carolina, where it remained in service until 2021. At that point, it began its third career in West Stafford, Connecticut, where it continues to serve as Tower 144.

PAGE 22

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

May/June, 2026

WE’RE LOADING UP THE BOX! ON THE BOOK SHELF by John Malecky

W E’ R E L O A D IN G UP T H E B O X : A P ictorial C o lle ctio n o f F irefightin g In N ew York City B y Matt D aly A vailable from: FSP B ook s 433 M ain Street, Suite 2A Hudson, M A O 1749 1-800-522-8528 Em ail: su p port@ fire-p oliceem s.com www. fire-po lice -em s.co m Price: $42.50 T his is a hard co v er co ffe e table b o o k m easuring 9 inches by 12 inches. It has 208 pages. The author is a fire photographer with

a prestigiou s back grou n d w h ich started o f f in 1977. In 1981, he w as nam ed the O fficia l P h otogra pher for the F D N Y Em erald Society. I w ill let }^ou read the rest o f his accom plishm ents. The b o o k is load ed with both black and white, as w ell as co lo r ph otos m ostfy o f fire scenes. The contents consist o f a D edication, Forward, A ck n ow l edgem en ts, a S p ecia l Thanks, A bou t the Photographer, N Y C Fire Departm ent T erm in ology and p h otos from 1978 through 2010 fo llo w e d b}^ an index. The title o f the b o o k is a d isp atch er’ s term giv en to the resp on d in g a ssig n m ent b a sed on the num ber o f ph on e ca lls and pull b o x e s that w ere activated about the address o f the incident indicating a “w ork in g fire.”The Forward w as written b}^ V ince Dunne, retired deput}^ c h ie f and author o f educational textbooks. N ot m uch m ore can be said about this excellent b o o k that sh ou ld b e o f interest o f anyone w ho fo llo w s the F D N Y and p h o tographs at fire scenes.

FRANKLIN FIRE COMPANY

E-Bike Fire Contained in New Franklin Home NEW FRANKLIN, PA - Ladder 42 and Engine 45 responded to Linden Road in the Village of New Franklin for a reported house fire, March 8th. Engine 17 arrived on scene to find smoke showing from the structure. By 5:00 p.m., the fire had been extinguished. Crews continued operations by opening up walls and ventilating smoke from the interior. Firefighters discovered that an ebike inside the home had caught fire. Ladder 42 conducted primary searches, which were neg ative, before checking for fire extension and completing overhaul operations.

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May/June, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

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 Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com.

MARSHALL TWP. VOL. FIRE DEPARTMENT

V ehicle Fire Extinguished on 1-79 Northbound in Allegheny

ALAN HOFFMAN

Tanker 8 of the Upper Macungie Township Fire Department on the scene of a mobile home fire at 8852 Breinig Run Circle in Upper Macungie Twp.

MARSHALL TWP., PA - Units 185, 228, Butler 21, and Butler 42 responded to a reported vehicle fire at Mile Marker 77 on 1-79 Northbound, March 14th. Upon arrival, Chief 185 confirmed that the vehicle was located well off the roadway. Engine 228 deployed a hose line and successfully extinguished the fire.

DALE FEEHRER

Engine 74-2 (2007 Sutphen 1500/500) of the Elizabethtown FD is seen here operating at a recent dwelling fire in Mt. Joy Twp., PA.

IRISHTOWN FIRE COMPANY

M u ltip le U nits Dispatched to R esidential Blaze in Bonneauville Borough NEW OXFORD, PA - On March 29th around 4:38 a.m., Engine, Engine/Tanker, and Traffic 14 were dispatched to Bon neauville Borough (box area 33-300) to assist United Hook and Ladder Company 33 in responding to a residential struc ture fire. Emergency crews arrived on scene to support on going firefighting operations. KEN SNYDER

Bethlehem El in service at the third alarm E 5th St. dwelling fire 2/13/26.

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

May/June, 2026

PAGE 25

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PAGE 26

May/June, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

Limerick Crews Respond to Four-Vehicle Crash with Entrapment on Route 422 LIMERICK, PA -At 12:04 p.m. on March 18th, the Limerick Fire Department was dispatched to a four-vehicle accident on Route 422 WB. Deputy 51, Chief 51, Rescue 51, 51 Fire Police, Freedom Valley EMS, and PA J ump to file# State Police re 03202B14B sponded. Dispatch reported there were conflicting reports on whether anyone was entrapped. Deputy 51 arrived, confirmed that one occu pant was trapped in their vehicle, and assumed 422 Command. Rescue 51 crews promptly sta bilized the occupied vehicle and per formed a door pop to safely extricate the driver, who was able to exit the vehicle on his own. There were no injuries to all involved individuals. Fire Police navigated getting traffic flow back down the 422 WB shoul der during the incident due to the closure o f the travel lane for con struction, and the fast lane was re stricted due to the accident. Traffic had been at a complete standstill. Auto Rescue safely removed all the vehicles from the scene, and 422 WB was open, and Limerick was made available after only an hour of incident operations. This was the first o f five calls o f the day for the department. The other calls consisted o f two fire alarms, one gas odor, and one re ported vehicle fire.

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- REGINA JELSKI

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REGINA JELSKI

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

May/June, 2026

PAGE 27

ACTION SHOTS If you have photos you would like to see in our Action Shots feature please upload them on our website www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@ lstR esponderN ew s.com .

LINCOLN BORO V FRC#1

MUNHALL VOL. FIRE COMPANY #4

MUNHALL, PA - On March 8th, 203 Rescue responded to a second alarm building fire in the City of McKeesport. The unit went en route with a crew of three prior to dispatch. Upon arrival, members assisted with ladder operations and performed fire suppression efforts on the first division.

LINCOLN BORO V FRC#1

Crews Respond to Large Brush Fire Near Lincoln Way LINCOLN BORO, PA - On March 22nd shortly after 4:00 p.m., units were dispatched to assist the White Oak Volun teer Fire Department Station 299 and the Rainbow Volunteer Fire Company with a large brush fire located off Lincoln Way, near the Rose Restaurant. Both tankers and a utility task vehicle (UTV) were deployed to the scene. Crews worked alongside multiple departments from across the area, remaining on site for several hours to bring the fire under control.

BLUE KNOB VOL. FIRE COMPANY

The Blue Knob Volunteer Fire Company responded overnight on March 15th to a residential structure fire in Newry Borough. Upon arrival, workers were assigned to help with fire suppression operations, wl le others attempted to construct a supplementary water supply. Firefighters installed about 500feet of 5-inch supply hose to aid the ongoing firefighting operations. Personnel worked with other re. ponding agencies to contain the fire and ensure a consistent water supply for crews on the scene.

PAGE 28

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

May/June, 2026

IN SERVICE If you have photos you would like to see in our In Service feature, please upload them on our website www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com .

Pvd(\

DALE FEEHRER

The Smithfield FD operates this 2015 Pierce Arrow XT (1500/500/75') as Truck 10.

FRANK RORINSON

Harford Fire Company operates a 2019 KW/Sutphen 1250/3000 Pumper Tanker.

DALE FEEHRER

The Halifax FD operates this 2005 Sterling/4-Guys tanker (1500/2500) as Tanker 29.

DALE FEEHRER

The Lyons Fire Co.#1 operates this 2024 Pierce Enforcer PUC as Rescue-Engine 35 (1500/1000).

DALE FEEHRER

The Rescue Fire Co. #1 of Mt. Aetna, PA operates this 2000 HME/New Lexington The Annville-Cleona FD operates this 2019 Sutphen/Rescue 1 as Rescue 58; this (1500/1000) as Engine 28. piece is housed at the Annville station.

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

May/June, 2026

PAGE 29

DRILLS/TRAINING To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com

GIRARDVILLE, PA - Thirteen first responders from the Rangers Hose Company have successfully completed their AED/CPR recertification training. The firefighters regularly respond to medical emer gencies alongside local EMS providers throughout the Girardville and Butler Township communities. The company extends its appreciation to instructor Bob Selbi of Shenandoah for visiting the station and conducting a thorough review of the training material.

WILKINS TWP. VOL. FIRE COMPANY 3

RANGERS HOSE COMPANY, GIRARDVILLE, PA.

S 3

WILKINS TWP. VOL. FIRE COMPANY 3

Crews Quickly Knock Down Vehicle Fire in W ilkins Township WILKINS TWP., PA-Wilkins Township Volunteer Fire Company No. 3, along with Turtle Creek VFD and Wilmerding VFD, re sponded to a reported vehicle fire at the intersection of Penn Avenue Extension and Prospect Street, March 28th. Upon ar rival, crews encountered a passenger vehicle heavily involved in flames. Firefighters quickly deployed a bumper line and brought the fire under control within minutes, preventing fur ther spread and hazards to the surrounding area. The Al legheny County Fire Marshal responded to investigate the cause of the fire, and the damaged vehicle was subsequently removed from the roadway. No injuries were reported, and units cleared the scene shortly after operations were completed.

RANGERS HOSE COMPANY, GIRARDVILLE, PA.

PAGE 30

May/June, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

M ilk Tanker Plunges 35 Feet Off Road Into Irish Creek, Sparks Hours-Long Cleanup Effort M OHRS VILLE, PA - Central Berks Fire Co. was dispatched at 12:44 a.m. on March 19th for a tractor trailer in a ditch at 3291 Irish Creek Rd. Crews arrived to find a slightly different scene. A tank truck carrying 7,000-gallons o f fresh milk had crashed o ff the roadway, through a thicket o f trees, down a steep 35-foot embank ment, com ing to rest just next to the Irish Creek. The end o f the trailer was sticking out, blocking the road. After treating the driver and hand ing him o ff to EMS and closin g the road, the co m pany took actions to mitigate the leaking tank o f milk by deploying boom s into the creek. The co m pany had another tank truck on scene around one hour after dis patch to pump o ff what they could and stopping the leak. V &M Towing arrived on scene and began the removal process, which took the next eight hours. Around 10:00 a.m., the re sponding tank truck was able to finish pumping o ff the remainder o f the milk once the trailer was on level ground. The company then finished mitigation o f the hazmat concerns o f milk into a waterway by diluting the milk on the ground and what little had made its way into the creek, finally returning to station around 11:30 a.m.

CENTRAL BERKS FIRE CO.

Watching V&M Towing working their magic.

CENTRAL BERKS FIRE CO.

The truck just prior to removal once daylight broke.

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1st Responder Newspaper - PA

May/June, 2026

PAGE 31

Vehicle News

DALE FEEHRER

The Pine Glen Fire Company operates this 2025 Kenworth T-880/4-Guys as Tanker The Walker Twp. Fire Co. has placed this 2025 Kenworth T-880/4-Guys tanker 17 (1500/3500). (1250/3000) into service Tanker 16.

DALE FEEHRER

The Ridge Fire Co. #1 has placed this 2025 Pierce Arrow XT pumper-tanker The McConnellsburg Fire Company have placed this 2025 Kenworth T880/Fouts (2000/3613) into service as Engine 62-5. Bros.Tanker (1500/3000) into service as Tanker 56.

DALE FEEHRER

The Brecknock Twp. Fire Co. now operates this 2025 Freightliner/KME Eliminator The Campbelltown VFC has placed their 2025 Seagrave Marauder II (2000/750) into (1500/3000) as Tanker 72. service as Engine 2.

PAGE 32

May/June, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

Huntingdon County Fire Units Deliver Massive Water Supply During Commercial Building Fire HUNTINGDON, PA - On March 18th around 2:00 P.M., Huntingdon County Fire Services responded to a First Alarm as signment for a commercial build ing fire on B ox 7-9. Engine 21 and Tanker 21 were immediately d is patched. Engine 21 left the station within two minutes with a crew o f three, follow ed closely by Tanker 21 with two person nel. Approxim ately eight m iles from the scene, the crew o f Engine 21 reported see ing a large header o f smoke. While approaching the fire, they learned that a fill site was needed. C hief 21 contacted Command to confirm if Engine 21 should man age the fill site, as they were near ing it. The crew promptly set up the fill site and began filling in coming tankers. Located less than a m ile from the fire, the fill site became extremely busy, at times supplying three tankers simulta neously. Engine 21, a valued asset o f the department, had been out o f winter service due to a lack o f tire chains. This marked the first ac tive deployment o f the engine equipped with a front suction, which proved to be exceptionally effective. Leaving the station with a full tank o f fuel. Engine 21 returned with only an eighth o f a tank remaining. During operations. C h ief 21 managed the pump, while C ap tain and Lieutenant 21 hooked up and filled tankers. In total, the crew supplied 22 tankers with an estimated 50,000 gallons o f water. Tanker 21 com pleted four water shuttle runs before return ing to service. The Mount Union Fire C om pany generously provided food and refreshments to crews on the scene, and the units later stopped at neighboring Mill Creek Station 20 to clean hoses and hard suction lines.

TROUGH CREEK VALLEY V O L FIRE CO.

TROUGH CREEK VALLEY VOL FIRE CO.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

TROUGH CREEK VALLEY VOL. FIRE CO.

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

PAGE 33

May/June, 2026

PENN HILLS N0.7VFC

ALLIANCE FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICES

Vehicle Rollover w ith Gas Leak Contained in Penn H ills PENN HILLS, PA - On March 20th, Stations 227, 223, and 222 were dispatched to a single-vehicle rollover accident at the intersection o f Universal R d and Webster Dr. Upon arrival, 227RQ and PHEMS found an unoccupied vehicle rest ing on its side after striking a gas meter, resulting in an active gas leak. W itnesses reported that the

J ump to file # 032726164

m aP I % driver had fled the scene prior to the arrival o f em ergency responders. The operator was later located and detained. Crew s from 227RQ su ccess fully isolated the gas leak and se cured the scene. 227RQ remained

on site for approximately one hour to assist with traffic control and de bris removal. O nce the area was deem ed safe, the roadway was re opened to traffic. Com m and was held by 227CHF. Units responding in cluded 227RQ, 227CV, 223RQ, 222RQ, PHPD, and PHEMS.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

ANTIQUE APPARATUS If you have photos for Antique Apparatus please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com

ALLIANCE FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICES

Five Baby Foxes S afely Rescued by Red Lion F ire fig h te rs RED LION, PA - Alliance Fire and Rescue Services members responded to a call for an animal rescue on April 7th after multiple baby foxes were discovered stuck in a drainage field pipe. Five young foxes were found inside the pipe when firefighters arrived. In order to remove the animals safely, crews had to carefully enter the area. After being re moved from the pipe, the fox kits were given to wildlife ex perts for assessment and treatment. DALE FEEHRER

The Orbisonia-Rockhill VFC maintains this 1922 ALF/Brockway pumper. This piece is often brought out for fire department and in-town events.

PAGE 34

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

May/June, 2026

ART FOR HEROES If you have photos you would like to see in our “ Art for Heroes”feature, please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com.

ALAN HOFFMAN

This mural, painted by Dave Miller, is on the wall in the social club of the Citizens Fire Company #2 of Emmaus. The people in the mural are painted after real members of the fire company. The fire company is celebrating their 100th anniversary this year.

Crews Extinguish Basement Dryer Fire a t Emmaus Residence EMMAUS, PA - At 11:30 a.m. on April 8th, the Emmaus, Vera Cruz, Western Salisbury and Lower Macungie Fire Departments, along with Emmaus EMS, were dispatched for a dwelling fire at 1255 West Broad Street in the borough of Emmaus. Emmaus police arrived on the scene and said they had a smoke inhalation victim and smoke in the basement. Engine 7 and Chief 7 arrived on the scene and advanced a hose line into the basement and had a dryer fire. The fire was extinguished in the dryer, and the dryer was removed from the basement and ventilation was performed.

FIRE COMPANY LOGOS If you have photos you would like to see in our “Fire Company L ogos “feature please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com .

Q uick Response P re ve n ts Spread o f E xca va to r F ire in L in c o ln B orough

PROVIDED

The newest logo for the Central Berks Fire Company No. 1 of Centerport, PA.

LINCOLN BOROUGH, PACrews handled several calls throughout the day on April 2nd, with the most serious involving a fully-involved mini-exca vator on Liberty Way in Lincoln. Upon dispatch, Chief 184 and Engine 184 responded quickly and ar rived to find the machine completely engulfed in flames. The fire posed a potential risk to nearby equipment and property, prompting firefighters to initiate an immediate and coordinated attack. The incident was mitigated without any injuries. LINCOLN BORO VFRC#1

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

PAGE 35

May/June, 2026

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COMMAND VEHICLES If your Department has photos you would like to see in our "‘ Command Vehicles" feature, please upload them on our website. www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindseyw! lstResponderNews.com

OUR CALENDAR IS EXPANDING We Need Your Help!

Post an event in your area at www.1rbn.com out for National Events too!

ALAN HOFFMAN

Chief 35 of the Whitehall Fire Department on the scene of a 2nd alarm fire at the Helfrich Springs apartment complex in Whitehall Township.

PAGE 36

May/June, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

DEPARTMENT PROFILE If your department has photos you would like to see in our “ Departmnt Profile”feature, please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com

ALAN HOFFMAN NORTH FAYETTE TOWNSHIP VFD

Wrong-Way Driver In cid en t on US 22/30 Prom pts 911 Reminder NORTH FAYETTE, PA - On Sunday, March 29th at approxi mately 8:46 P.M., a wrong-way driver is believed to have entered US 22 near the 576 interchange and continued eastbound in the west bound lanes. The vehicle later col lided with another car between M cKee Road and the Hankey Farms exit in North Fayette Town ship. Fortunately, the incident re sulted in no significant injuries to those involved. Authorities ex pressed gratitude that multiple callers reported the wrong-way driver, allowing law enforcement to respond quickly and attempt inter ception as the vehicle’ s location

J ump to file #040326145

« a# was continuously updated in real time. Officials are using the incident to stress the importance o f calling 911 without hesitation. Even when unsure whether others have already called, making a prompt report can provide critical information to first responders and help prevent poten tially life-threatening situations. Timely calls from the public play a vital role in keeping roads and com munities safe.

The Citizens Fire Company #2 of Emmaus is celebrating their 100th anniversary this year. The Citi zen's Fire Company #2 was officially organized on October 26, 1926, by a dedicated group of local citizens aiming to enhance fire protection in the southwestern portion of the borough. It received its official charter on May 9, 1927. Operating from a converted schoolhouse, the company expanded in the 1940's and was part of the three company system that merged in 1980. Until 1980, fire protection in the borough of Emmaus was provided by three separate companies (No.1, No.2 and No.3). In 1980, these operations were consolidated under the Emmaus Borough Fire Department following the con struction of a central fire station on 6th Street. Today, the Citizen's Fire Company #2 is an active social club with over 2,000 members, and holds various community events.

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 Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

Explore more features at

www.1rbn.com KEN SNYDER

Tri-Clover E26 in service at the Huckleberry Road dwelling fire in S. Whitehall Twp., 2 / 9126 .

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

May/June, 2026

PAGE 37

P h ysica l F itn e ss, TOAC and CPAT Each firefighter will also meet to have their vitals checked after completion of the eight stages.

JOSEPH CEA

It goes without saying that fire fighters must be physically fit in order to do the job. The typ ical weight of turnout gear with a cylinder is 80 pounds. Now add in any hand tools that fire fighters carry not to mention a charged hose line, ladders etc.... and it’s easy to see why being in shape in paramount. Of course, being in shape is relative to each firefighter and involves A LOT of factors. Ad equate exercise, proper nutri tion and even proper management of health issues such as diabetes are all part of keeping yourself ready to do the job when called upon. Because being physically pre pared is so varied from fire fighter to firefighter and from firehouse to firehouse instead of discussing how to stay in shape this article will focus on training benchmarks. The first is the Task Oriented Air Con sumption (TOAC). For both vol unteers and career firefighters this is one of the first yard sticks to measure whether or not someone will be a success ful firefighter. This is solely due to the fact that candidates will be wearing a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and “on air” which for some can be a daunting experience. TOAC usually starts out by having prospective firefighters participate in a “breathe down” which is simply wearing an SCBA and breathing normally while simply walking in a low stress environment. This is done to get firefighters used to breathing with an SCBA and at tached regulator but also to measure how long it takes a firefighter to use all the air within a cylinder to gauge and possibly change how to cor rectly breathe through an SCBA. On the day of the TOAC test every firefighter will first meet with an EMT to have their vitals checked. Because there is a real health and physical injury risk any vital sign outside the acceptable range will result in not taking the exam - PERIOD!

Stair Climb - With an additional 25lbs (75lbs total) candidates have to walk a stair mill. The first 20 seconds are a warmup at 50 stairs/min at which time candidates can hold the handrail. Once the three-minute climb starts the rate is in creased to 60 stairs/min and the handrail cannot be used.

events but in the administration of the test. For starters the firefighter/candidate will have an EMT take their vitals taken be fore and after the test, will also have an escort to monitor any potential health concerns, en sure the parameters of the test are adhered to and also to pro vide positive encouragement.

Hose Pull - Pulling a 1.75 in hose line 200ft. navigating around a barrel. This is the ONLY stage where a candidate can run.

The best advice for TOAC is

Hose stretch/pull - pulling a 50 ft hose line (1.75in) 75ft and pulling a same size hose line 50 ft around a stationary object Tool Lift/Carry - taking tools off a shelf and walking them back and forth 75 ft and putting them back on a shelf

Tool Lift/Carry - taking tools off a shelf and walking them back and forth 75 ft and putting them back on a shelf

Ladder Raise - Raising a ladder using the halyard in a hand over hand fashion

Ladder Raise - Raising a 24ft ladder using the halyard in a hand over hand fashion

Forcible Entry - Using a sledge hammer striking a tire ten times

Forcible Entry - Using a sledge hammer to hit a device until a buzzer/light is set off

Here are the TOAC stages in order: Hose Carry - carrying a 50 ft long high-rise pack (2.5in) up three flights of stairs.

Search - Enter a maze and using a left- or right-handed search navigate 65 ft in the dark with obstacles Rescue - Drag a 1651b man nequin 75ft Ceiling Breach/Pull - Push up 60lbs (3x) and pull down 80lbs (5x) using a pike pole - 2 sets Each firefighter has a shadow that walks along to ensure their safety, monitor their air and pro vide positive encouragement along the way. Here is the link to the Erie County (NY) TOAC: https://www.youtube.com/watc h?v=IRo2SnrR9cg This link is for the worksheet used when taking the exam: https://drive.google.eom/drive/u /0/folders/1 Wi_Egrgl3h05CO5IE UFzYy9xjHs4nUzJ The second physical fitness lit mus test is generally reserved for those firefighters that have chosen to make the fire service their career. The Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) certainly lives up to its name. Like TOAC the tasks for each are laid out in the order a fire fighter can expect to have to complete them from arrival time on the fireground. The CPAT also has eight stages but they are not 100% identical. Here are the CPAT stages in order:

simply RELAX and breathe! You will do great if you stay calm with the SCBA attached. As far as the CPAT having failed and then passed the difference was training on a stair mill with weights. The rest of CPAT is easy if you have your “sea legs” after the stair mill. Good Luck and stay safe!

Search - Enter a dark maze with obstacles Rescue - Drag a 1651b man nequin 35ft. Ceiling Breach/Pull - Push up 60lbs (3x) and pull down 80lbs (5x) using a pike pole - 4 sets An important note - The stair climb lasts three minutes and twenty seconds while all other stages are one minute in dura tion. Running is not permitted with the exception of the hose pull event. There are 85 ft be tween each event. See this link for a more detailed video de scription: https://www.youtube.com/watch ?v=wh3EoE1 yJnQ While the TOAC emphasizes completing firefighter tasks while breathing through an SCBA, the CPAT simply under scores a firefighter’s physical ability to complete common firefighter tasks. This is distin guished in that the TOAC is not timed whereas the CPAT is a strict 10 min and 20 seconds. Another difference is with TOAC you are wearing full turnout gear while in CPAT the required PPE is a helmet, gloves and long pants with a 501b weight vest simulating the weight of turnout gear. There are also similarities be tween the two not only in the

GETTYSBURG FIRE

Live W ires Prompt Emergency Response A fte r Gettysburg Crash GETTYSBURG, PA - On March 31st, Gettysburg Fire Depart ment, along with EMS and Fire Police, was dispatched to the 2100 block of Old Harrisburg Road in Straban Township for a report of a vehicle striking a utility pole with unknown in juries. Rescue 1 arrived to find a utility pole down across the roadway, with Fire Police already blocking traffic to secure the scene. EMS personnel were assessing the vehicle’s driver while firefighters worked to maintain a safe perimeter, as the power lines remained energized. Met-Ed was re quested to remotely shut down power, and a company rep resentative arrived to confirm the lines were still live before performing additional work to make the scene safe. Once the area was secured, control of the incident was turned over to Met-Ed, with Fire Police remaining on site for traffic control. The driver declined transport, and the incident is under in vestigation by the Pennsylvania State Police.

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DRILLS FROM AROUND THE STATE To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to LindseyM lstResponderNews.com.

Members of Wilkins Township Volunteer Fire Company No. 3 conducted a comprehensive training drill alongside Pitcairn Hose Company No. 1, focusing on water flow, hose deployment, and pump operations. During the two-hour session, crews deployed a total of six handlines from three apparatus while also operating master streams from Tower 303. Firefighters practiced coordinated suppression techniques, apparatus positioning, and efficient water management in a controlled environment de signed to simulate real-world fireground conditions. Following the hands-on portion of the drill, par ticipants engaged in a roundtable discussion to review tactics, evaluate performance, and share lessons learned.

BADEN VOL. FIRE DEPARTMENT - STATION 47

WILKINS TWP. VOL. FIRE COMPANY 3

BADEN VOL. FIRE DEPARTMENT - STATION 47

Medical providers from the Baden Fire Department participated in a continuing education session alongside Economy EMS, held at the Baden Fire Station.

WILKINS TWP. VOL. FIRE COMPANY 3

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Y0UNGW00D VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPT.

ALAN HOFFMAN

Engine 56 of the Upper Macungie Fire Department on the scene of a mobile home fire at 8852 Breinig Run Circle in Upper Macungie Township.

YOUNGWOOD VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPT.

Crews Rescue Trapped Victim in Youngwood Two-Car Crash YOUNGWOOD, PA - One individual was reportedly trapped in a two-vehicle collision at Depot Street and Racetrack Road in the borough when the Youngwood Volunteer Fire Depart ment responded on March 7th. When Rescue 26 arrived, workers stabilized one of the cars before starting the extrica tion process. To release the confined individual, firefighters gained access to the patient by removing a door. The colli sion between the two cars affected five individuals in total. Three people were sent to a neighboring hospital for assess ment and treatment after mutual aid ambulance services helped on the spot. To help EMS and secure the cars, fire fighters stayed on the scene.

SOUTH STRARANE FIRE DEPARTMENT

One Extricated A fter Rollover Crash on 1-70 in Washington County WASHINGTON, PA - On March 26th, firefighters from the South Strabane Fire Department re sponded to a single-vehicle rollover with entrapment just before the East Beau Street exit on Interstate 70 westbound. One person was stuck inside the car when crews arrived. To safely remove the patient, firefighters steadied the car and completed extrication. After being as sessed, Ambulance & Chair EMS, Inc. transported the occupant to a nearby hospital. The North Strabane Twp. Fire Department and the City of Washington Fire Department offered mutual aid support. Before clearing the area and reopening the road, units worked on the scene for a while.

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Seeing people through God’s eyes Chaplain’ s Corner Didymus McHugh

Many o f us see people through our earthly eyes that may be cov ered with bias and prejudices, ei ther learned or taught but there may be a rare treat o f seeing people as G od sees them. I have been around people who have assisted me with my vision problem. Starting when I was young, I had people remove some scales from my eyes. I have had the pleasure o f breaking bread with others and had heart to heart talks with them. We explored com m on alities and understood why we have our differences. We were smart enough and brave enough to accept each other as people that were cre ated by God. But still, there were other peo ple that we did not recognize and treat like invisible, but that was taught by society. Some were homeless, disabled or mentally ill, that was putting some scales back on the eyes. I admit that som e generaliza tions were easier to deal with dur ing my EMS days, which did not change the fact that I was still ig noring their humanity and the fact that we had the same Creator. When my daughter was born with disabilities and all her chal lenges, I finally saw and started to understand challenges o f that pop ulation. We need to see them as people. They may have their chal lenges, but they are still people, who have thoughts, feelings, ideas, and a sense o f humor. My daughter removed so many scales from my eyes. I now try to speak out and find ways to assist them. I was invited to preach in a hom eless shelter and feed in an other Shelter. I got to sit down and know the men. I listened to their stories o f misfortune, drug use, and current challenges. I realized that if I made different decisions, I could have been in the shelters. The men, who became my friends, help me see them and care about them and they took more scales o ff my eyes. One time I was working in the hospital and got called to work with

a woman in detox, who decided to punch out a window with mesh in it. I originally saw a person that I might have ignored prior. As we were talk ing, I listened to this woman and there was so much o f her life that could have been from my life. A s we continued to talk, more scales fell from my eyes, and I had the ability to have God's view o f a beautiful woman. I got a chance to see som e one in the beauty that G od sees all His children. So many o f my scales fell off. G od does not see color or differ ences, but He sees someone that He has made plans for, that He has won derfully made in His image. The first thing that we need to do is to see others with the heart and eyes that G od wants us to have. Some people say that we are not to be social workers, but we are to care for, feed, clothe, and visit our brothers and sisters. We should start to care for some one by acknowledging their exis tence. Look at them eye to eye and really see them. Listen to their sto ries. You may find parts o f yourself in them or understand more o f their thinking or behaviors. I understand that some people may not want to go into shelters be cause many o f them are unsafe. There are also some people who may be wealthy, but they wish to remain homeless and live on the streets. We may see people where they are, instead o f their prior experience or expertise. There may be someone that you came across who was men tally or spiritually crushed, after a traumatic event. They might not have access or knowledge about where to get help to allow them to heal. We may have been hurt by one person and then make a grand gener alization and then the other person may do the same thing, make a gen eralization o f one group because o f one or a few knuckleheads. Is that fair and do you like it when someone does it to you? When we use gener alizations and pass that onto others, we may start may problems in the communities. Should w e treat each person with dignity? The person that you see as hom eless now may have served honorably as an emergency responder or in the military. You may never find out. They may never di vulge the information with you. We may look at someone with a physical disability and try to figure

out what is different about them, but have you asked yourself how the person is looking at you? Are they looking at you, trying to figure out what's up with because o f your words, actions, or attitude? What about disabilities that are not visi ble? There may be people that are different from you, but that person can be your best friend. I f you only talk to people who are just like you that would be like eating a lifetime o f nothing but vanilla ice cream. I have friends o f different reli gions. I do not apologize about my religion, and they should not have to for their beliefs. We accept each other just as we are. I have friends that go through many different challenges. Why do they have to go through them? Only G od knows. Many times, it can be preparing them for some work that He has for them in the future. You have your own challenges that you have to go through and have already gone through. A disease or condition should not identify a person. The individual may have cancer, but his name is not Cancer Ken and someone with dia betes is not Diabetes Dan. They are just Ken and Dan. Sure you may not know what to say but just treat them like any other person. You may offer to assist the person but don't be hurt if they decide that they can do the task without you. Through getting to know strangers, I have developed friends from what people tell me are o f so many different religions, ethnic backgrounds, regions, races etc.. I do not try to pay attention to those things, I just look at their hearts. Jesus stated that we are to love our neighbors. He did not say that they are to be like us. Take that as a hint. Open your mind and your heart. I f you don't you will be missing a lot and miss out on getting to know some really great people. If you don't love your neighbor, that w ill be something else that you are not lis tening to G od on. Smile, say hello to someone you don't know. I saw a shirt that indi cated that a stranger is a friend that we have not met yet.

ALAN HOFFMAN

Stove Fire Quickly Contained at Emmaus Apartment Building EMMAUS, PA - On March 14th at 10:32 a.m., the Emmaus Fire Department, Vera Cruz Fire Company, Western Salisbury Fire Company and the Lower Macungie Fire Department, along with Emmaus EMS, were dispatched for an apartment build ing fire at 1200 Eagle Drive in the borough of Emmaus. En gine 7 arrived on scene and had a fire on the stove that was extinguished. Crews checked for extension and completed ventilation.

ACTION SHOTS If you have photos you would like to see in our “ Action Shots”feature, please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com.

Stay safe, Didymus McHugh didy mus-mchugh .com

OLD LYCOMING TWP. VOL. FIRE CO.

Old Lycoming Township Vol. Fire Company’s Tanker 14 was spe cially dispatched to support the Montoursville Fire Department dur ing a second-alarm structure fire. Tanker 14 and Utility 14 responded with eight members. While the tanker hauled multiple loads of water, crews assisted with overhaul operations at the scene.

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IN SERVICE If you have photos you would like to see in our In Service feature, please upload them on our website www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com.

The Williamsport Bureau of Fire operates a trio of Pierce's from it's headquarters located in downtown Williamsport. Engines 1 and 2-1 are both 2024 Pierce Velocitys' equipped with 1500-gpm pumps, and 750-gallon water tanks. Tower 1 is a 2023 Pierce Velocity mid-mount with a 100' Ascendant aerial, 300-gallon water tank, and a 2000-gpm pump.

DALE FEEHRER

Engine 1

EASTERN RERKS FIRE DEPARTMENT

D river E xtrica te d A fte r R ollover Crash in Earl Township DALE FEEHRER

Engine 2-1

WILLIAMSPOjiT

EARL TWP, PA - Company 97, Medic 505, and fire police units from Companies 97 and 95 arrived at the intersection o f Route 100 and Eloffmansville Road at 1:50 p.m. on March 24th in response to a re ported car accident with potential fire and unidentified injuries. When Chief 97 arrived, he ver ified that the collision had occurred on Eloffmansville Road, which is right off Route 100. The driver was reportedly trapped as the car rolled multiple times before coming to a stop in a neighboring field. When Rescue/Engine 97 ar-

J ump to file #040926124

*6 3 # rived, they started removing the driver's door with hand tools. After that, firefighters helped Medic 505 with patient care and debris re moval. Units operating on scene included Rescue/Engine 97, En gine 97, and Brush 97-1. Fire p o lice closed the roadway until the vehicle was removed by a tow company.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

Explore more on the Web! www.1RBN.com DALE FEEHRER

Tower 1

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Y-

WEST DEER TWP. VOL. FIRE COMPANY #3

BLANDON FIRE DEPARTMENT

Blandon F irefighters Provide RIT Support a t Kutztown Fire Scene BERKS COUNTY, PA - The Blandon Fire Department responded earlier in the day on March 13th to assist Kutztown Fire & Rescue during a structure fire, operating on scene as the Rapid Inter vention Team (RIT). During the incident, Blandon firefighters staged on scene while suppression crews worked to control the fire and manage the heavily damaged structure. The building sus tained significant fire damage, with portions of the structure partially collapsed as firefighters continued suppression and overhaul operations.

DRILLS/TRAINING If you have photos you would like to see in our Drills feature please upload them on our website www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com.

M ulti-A gency Response Contains Brush Fire in West Deer Township W EST D EER TWP., PA - A large brush fire on Rittman Road in West Deer Township on March 23rd prompted a significant multi agency response, bringing together numerous fire companies and spe cialized units to combat the rap idly spreading blaze. West Deer Township Volunteer Fire Company #3 responded alongside crews from West Deer #1 and # 2, Richland Township VFD, M iddlesex Township Volun teer Fire Company, Fawn #1, Frazer # 1 and #2, Saxonburg VFC, and Dorseyville VFC. Firefighters deployed brush trucks, UTVs, and handlines across challenging hillside terrain as the fire spread through dry veg-

JUMP TOFILE#033126111

3^ etation. D ozens o f personnel worked in coordinated operations to contain the fire, utilizing both m obile and manual suppression techniques. After approximately two hours o f intensive firefighting efforts, crews successfully brought the fire under control, preventing further extension and protecting nearby properties. No injuries were reported, and all assisting agencies returned to service following the incident.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

Read more features on our w ebsite! w w w .1rbn.com OLD LYCOMING TWP. VOL. FIRE CO.

WILLIAMSPORT, PA - In March, three Old Lycoming Twp. Vol. Fire Co. members successfully completed a 16-hour Ice Rescue training course. With this achievement, all three members have now completed every pathway in the water rescue training program. The department extends its gratitude to the South Williamsport Fire Department for hosting and facilitating these essential training sessions.

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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.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com .

KEN SNYDER

Allentown El 3 in service at the third alarm 607 S.6th St. dwelling fire, 1/31/26.

DALE FEEHRER

Garden Spot Fire-Rescue's Tower 39, a 2002 Pierce Dash (2000/300/100'), is seen here providing easy access to a collection pipe during a call in New Holland.

ALAN HOFFMAN

KEN SNYDER

Rescue Engine 1 of the Lower Macungie Fire Dept, on scene of a dwelling fire at 99 Palmer Municipal H&L quint in service. South Lea St., in the borough of Macungie.

ALAN HOFFMAN

Attack 39 of the Community Fire Co. of Seisholtzville on the scene of an accident Ladder 7 of the Emmaus Fire Department on the scene of a structure fire at the with injuries at Star Road and Seisholtzville Road in Hereford Twp. Emmaus Boruogh public works building on January 9th.

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Fawn Grove Firefighters Assist at Working House Fire in Norrisville Area FAWN GROVE, PA - On March 21st, firefighters from the Citizens Volunteer Fire Company arrived to support the Norrisville Volunteer Fire Company at a work ing house fire close to Norrisville Road and Jolly Acres Road. As part o f the mutual aid duty. Engine 56 and Tanker 56 were sent out. When crews ar rived, they assisted in maintaining the water supply for firefighters on the scene and supported suppression efforts. To handle the situation and as sist with fireground operations, multiple departments collaborated. In order to provide responding equipment with easy access, fire authorities advised drivers to stay away from the area between Jolly Acres Road and Norrisville Road.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

CITIZENS VOL. FIRE COMPANY

Enjoy taking photographs? Get the most out of your hobby. 1st Responder News compensates correspondents for their article & photograph submissions. Contact Lindsey TODAY for more information! Lindsey@1strespondernews.com 845-534-7500 ext. 212

CENTRAL RERKS FIRE COMPANY

Resident Escapes as Crews Contain Berks County House Fire BERKS COUNTY, PA - When crews from Central Berks Fire Company arrived on March 30th as mutual aid to a building fire, they discovered that the house was extensively dam aged. While other equipment attempted to provide a more stable water supply for operations, Engine 38 and Tanker 38, positioned behind Engine 37, helped with the initial fire fight. Firefighters focused on supporting suppression efforts as crews worked to control the fire. The lone person inside the house at the time was able to safely escape, according to of ficials, despite the significant damage to the building. De partments continued operations at the scene until the fire was brought under control.

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May/June, 2026

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Waymart Firefighters Assist at Second Alarm Structure Fire in Preston Township WAYMART, PA - On March 13th, firefighters from the Waymart Volunteer Fire Company arrived to support the Northern Wayne Fire Company at a second alarm struc ture fire in Preston Township. Through the Wayne County mu tual aid program, Waymart was re quested for more personnel and an en gine company. Eight firefighters from the department re sponded, helping companies that were already on scene with support and suppression duties. In order to provide coverage for local emergency calls, addi tional personnel stayed at the Waymart station while crews were dedicated to the situation.

-1RN NEWS TEAM

WAYMART VOL. FIRE COMPANY

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Vehicle News

SOUAO S<

DALE FfEIHEH

D A lfF E H IB l

The Aston Twp. FD now operates this 2025 E-One Typhoon 100'HR Metro Aerial as The Lampeter Fire Company #1 has placed their 2025 Seagrave Marauder Truck 17. (1500/750/Amkus) into service as Squad 54.

DALE FfEMEH

DALEFSM1H1

The Granville Fire Company has taken delivery of their 2026 Freightliner/Pierce The Chester Bureau of Fire operates this 2025 Pierce Enforcer (1500/500) as Engine tanker (1250/2000). This piece will serve as Tanker 16. 82.

DALE FfEMEH

D ALE FB E M E R

The Eastern Berks Fire & Rescue has taken delivery of their 2023 Ford F-550/2025 The Malvern Fire Company has placed this 2024 Freightliner/US Fire Apparatus Marcoattackunit (750/30 0/20 F/H urst) t o serve asAttack97. tanker(1500/300 0)intoserviceasTanker4.

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

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DRILLS/TRAINING If you have photos you would like to see in our Drills feature, please upload them on our website www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com.

PROVIDED

A training session on mental health was held at Plumville District Fire Department on April 1st. The topics included handling Autistic persons, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, recognizing suicidal sit uations. The training was held by Plumville member Melissa Bowser, a degreed and licensed mental health counselor. Dayton and Marion Center Fire Companies also attended the training.

ELIZABETH TOWNSHIP FIRE DEPARTMENT

Second Alarm House Fire Contained in Elizabeth Twp. EL IZA BE TH BOROU GH, PA - Elizabeth Township Fire Depart ment and mutual aid com panies were dispatched to R oy Street in the Blythedale section o f E liza beth Tow nship for a reported house fire on April 7th. Elizabeth Tow nship P olice Department units arrived first and confirm ed smoke com in g from the residence. R escu e Engine 11 re spon ded as the first arriving fire unit, follow ed closely by 140 En-

J ump to file #040926153

gine 7. Crew s established a water supply and began fire suppression operations. Com m and requested a second alarm to bring additional m an pow er to the scene. Firefighters contained the fire in a timely man ner and com pleted overhaul and safety checks before clearing the

scene. The cause o f the fire is under investigation by the A l legheny County Fire Marshal. Jefferson H ills Fire-Rescue provided tow nship coverage dur ing the incident and responded to an additional call while Elizabeth Tow nship Fire Department units operated on scene.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

Stay on top of the news th a t m atters to Pennsylvania emergency responders w ith a daily v is it to www.1RBN.com

CHAD SCOTT

Going Above and Beyond: Lieutenant Climbs Tree to Rescue Trapped K itten in Newton Ham ilton NEWTON HAMILTON, PA - On March 21st, Station 26 was alerted by a homeowner that their kitten was stuck in a tree for over 24 hours. An engine crew responded to find the kit ten 30-feet up the tree. The engine crew put up a 24-foot lad der, but came up a bit short, so that's when Lieutenant Snyder climbed the ladder and went up the tree to retrieve the kitten. Everyone made it back down safely, and the kitten was returned to the homeowner and is doing great.

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M ultiple Homes Reported on Fire in Glassport Second-Alarm Response JEFFERSON HILLS, PA - Jef ferson Hills Fire Rescue responded to the 800 block o f Ohio Avenue in Glassport on a second-alarm as signment, March 13th, for multiple houses reported on lire with possi ble entrapment. En gine 1, staffed with six personnel, ar rived as the seconddue engine and was assigned to Charlieside operations. The crew stretched a handline to the primary lire building, conducted primary searches, and initiated lire control. All searches were com pleted with negative findings. Seven members operated on scene for several hours, assisting with additional tasks as the inci dent progressed. Engine 2 re mained in the borough to cover in-town responses while Engine 1 worked the fire.

-1RN NEWS TEAM

JEFFERSON HILLS FIRE-RESCUE

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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 Lindsey@ l stResponderNews.com.

• rjgt

FRANK ROBINSON

DALE FEEHRER

Port Clinton Fire Company now operates a 1994 Mack MR/New Lexington 17501250. The Newberry Twp. Fire Department have placed this 2002 KME (1500/500) pumper The unit once saw service in Harmony, PA F.D. into service as Engine 31. This piece formally served in Lebanon, PA.

DALE FEEHRER

The West End Fire Company #3 of Sheridan, PA have placed this 2007 ALF The City Hook & Ladder of Lewistown has acquired this 2001 E-One pumper (1500/1000) into service as Engine 22-15. Before coming to PA, this piece served as (1500/1000) to serve as Engine 14. This piece originally served the Brooklyn Hose Engine 392 in Cockeysville, MD. Company also in Lewistown.

Read more features on our website! www.1rbn.com

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Vehicle News The Falls Township Fire Co. #1 has now received all three of their 2025 Pierce Enforcers. Engine and Rescue 30 both operate with 2000-gpm pumps and 650-gallon water tanks, with Rescue 30 car rying a full complement of Holmatro extrication tools. Ladder 30 operates with a rear-mounted 107' Ascendant aerial on a tamdem.

MONROEVILLE FIRE DEPT. CO. #5 DALEFEEHRER

Engine 30, 2000/650

Crews Respond Quickly to Garage Fire in Monroeville MONROEVILLE, PA - M on roeville Fire units were dispatched to a reported garage fire in C om pany l ’ s district on April 4th. C10 arrived to find smoke showing from a split-level residence and confirmed an active fire. Truck 5 and C hief 50 responded with four volunteers and were promptly as signed to assist operations.

td file # 040926157

Company 5 crews supported the incident by performing forcible entry, conducting over haul to locate and extinguish re maining hot spots, and positioning the aerial to provide roof access if

needed. Their efforts com ple mented the suppression crews working to contain and control the fire. Units operated on scene for about an hour before returning to service.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

DALE FEEHRER

Rescue 30, 2000/650/Holmatro

DALE FEEHRER

Ladder 30,107' Ascendant

MONROEVILLE FIRE DEPT. CO. #5

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May/June, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

Fatal Apartment Fire Reported in Wilkinsburg High-Rise PITTSBURGH, PA - On March 30th at approximately 12:00 p.m., the Pittsburgh Bureau o f Fire were dispatched to a reported lire in a high-rise residential building along the 2400 block o f Laketon Road in Wilkinsburg. As firefighters arrived, the situ ation escalated quickly, prompting officials to upgrade the response to a three-alarm incident under the de partment’ s high-rise emergency pro tocol. The blaze was confined to a sin gle apartment on the fourth floor, where responders later discovered one individual who had died. Firefighters managed to bring the situation under control within

TOfile #040326148

1» about an hour. Following contain ment, crews remained at the site to ventilate smoke and check for any remaining sources o f heat that could reignite the fire. Medical personnel from Eastern Area EMS were also present at the scene. Authorities, including the Al legheny County Fire Marshal, have begun an investigation into the cause o f the fire, working alongside Wilkinsburg and Allegheny County police.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

HBFC

Dumpster Fire Contained in Honey Brook Twp. HONEY BROOK TWP., PA - On March 18th at 4:14 P.M., Station 33 (Honey Brook) got alerted for a dumpster fire in the 600 block of Todd Rd. Asst. 33, Eng. 33-1, and Eng. 33-5 made the re sponse. Assistant 33 arrived, confirming the report of a working dumpster fire. The fire was under control shortly after arrival.

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1st Responder Newspaper - PA

May/June, 2026

PAGE 53

DRILLS FROM AROUND THE STATE To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindseyw! lstResponderNews.com.

Members of the Bethel Park Volunteer Fire Company participated in a specialized training session alongside representatives from Duquesne Light Company, focusing on safe and effective operations around energized power lines. The hands-on drill provided firefighters with critical insight into elec trical hazards, proper scene assessment, and best practices when encountering downed wires or damaged utility infrastructure. By working directly with utility professionals, crews enhanced their ability to operate safely during emergencies involving electrical systems. Fire officials also reminded the public to never approach or touch downed power lines and to keep a safe distance from damaged poles, as these situations can pose serious and often unseen dangers.

GETTYSBURG FIRE

BETHEL PARK VOL. FIRE COMPANY

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GETTYSBURG FIRE

GETTYSBURG, PA - Members took advantage of the great weather to continue their driver training program, spending time behind the wheel and operating the apparatus in various controlled sce narios. The training focused on building confidence, improving ve hicle-handling skills, and preparing operators for real-world challenges they may encounter on the street. New Engine Apparatus Operators undergo a detailed training process that includes a minimum of 10 hours of day and night driv ing, operating in different weather conditions, drafting, multiple hydrant hookups, aerial apparatus supply, proper hose line pres sures, and learning every piece of equipment carried on the appa ratus.

BETHEL PARK VOL. FIRE COMPANY

Because each vehicle has its own size, weight, turning radius, and mission-specific purpose, no two apparatuses operate the same. This type of training ensures every operator is fully prepared to safely and effectively manage the unit they are assigned to.

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May/June, 2026

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

WHITEHALL FIRE COMPANY

DELTA-CARDIFF VOL. FIRE COMPANY STATION 57

Crews B a ttle House F ire w ith Rapid Extension in D elta Area

WHITEHALL FIRE COMPANY

DELTA, PA - In order to help the Whiteford Volunteer Fire Company, Inc. with a working house fire, the Delta-Cardiff Volunteer Fire Company Station 57 sent Engine 57 and Tanker 57 to the 4500 block of Slate Ridge Road, March 9th. First-arriving units reported heavy flames from the back of the house, confirming extension inside the structure, even though it had initially been dispatched as a gazebo fire. Tanker operations aided water delivery in an area with few hy drants, while Engine 57, the second-due engine, helped with an interior attack. For several hours, several departments worked to confine the fire and check for extension. During the in cident, station coverage was given by Rawlinsville Volunteer Fire Company.

W h ite h a ll FD W ins “ Hoagies fo r Heroes” C ontest a t Wawa Grand Opening March 14, 2026 — Members of the Whitehall Fire Department participated in a spirited and community-focused event dur ing the grand opening of a new Wawa location on MacArthur Road, taking part in the store’s “Hoagies for Heroes” con test. Firefighters went head-to-head with members of the American Red Cross in a friendly competition to assemble the most hoagies. Both teams finished with an impressive total of 19 hoagies each, leaving the final decision to the judges based on presentation. After careful evaluation, Whitehall Fire Department was declared the winner, earning top honors in the contest. Department members expressed appreciation to Wawa for the invitation and continued sup port of local first responders.

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.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com .

FIRE RESCUE

DALE FEEHRER

The Lawnton Fire Company at one time operated this 1990 R model Mack with an E-One body (250/300) as Dauphin County Rescue 44. The rescue was then sold to Richmond, NH when Lawnton replaced it with a new 2008 Pierce Quantum. Recently, an apparatus collector in Lancaster County purchased the Mack from Richmond, NH and brought it back to PA where it is now retired and pri vately owned.

1st Responder Newspaper - PA

May/June, 2026

PAGE 55

STILL IN SERVICE If you have photos you would like to see in our “Still in Sendee”feature, please upload them on our website, w w w .lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com

FOUNTAINDALE VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPT.

Late-Night Crash in Hamiltonban Township Sends One to Hospital

DALE FEEHRER

TheCarsonville Fire Company continues to operate this 1989 E-One Hurricane (1500/750) as Engine 19.

FOUNTAINDALE, PA - On March 27th at approximately 11:54 P.M., Rescue Engine 3 responded to a reported motor vehicle accident at the intersection of Jacks Mountain Road and Waynesboro Pike in Hamiltonban Township. Crews arrived to find a vehicle that had collided with a tree. One patient was treated at the scene and transported to a local hospital. The incident is currently under investigation by the Pennsylvania State Police.

Fatal Rollover Accident on Saint Thomas W illiamson Road in St. Thomas Township SA IN T TH OM AS, PA - On the m orning o f March 9th at ap proximately 6:16 a.m., emergency units were dispatched to a rollover auto accident on Saint Thom as W illiam son Road in St. Thom as Township. RE 18 arrived first and confirmed a solo occupant trapped in the vehicle. Shortly after, D C 18 arrived on scene, established command, and requested addi tional support from Squad 41 (Franklin’ s), which was dis patched as the next due unit.

A h elicopter was initially placed on standby; however, after further assessment, it was deter mined that the sole occupant had tragically passed away. Authori ties extended their condolen ces to the family and friends o f the de ceased. N o im ages o f the scene w ill be released. Any inquiries re garding the incident can be d i rected to the Pennsylvania State Police.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

DALE FEEHRER

The Lightstreet Comm. Fire Company still operates this well-kept 1979 Ford F-250 which serves as Brush 193.

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May/June, 2026

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

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