1st Responder News New Jersey August Edition

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TEANECK COUPLE PERISHES IN TRAGIC THREE-ALARM HOUSE FIRE

BILL TOMPKINS

TEANECK, NJ - Tragedy struck in Teaneck early Thursday morning, July 8th, as fire tore through a three-story home, claiming the lives of a young couple. Multiple 9-1-1 calls came in just before 3:30 A.M. for a reported structure fire at 1161 Arlington Ave., with possible entrapment.

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JAMES WOOD, SR.

Passaic Swears in Eight New Firefighters PASSAIC, NJ - On July 7th, Mayor Hector Lora from the City of Passaic swore in eight brave firefighters. These brave men have completed the Passaic County Fire Academy, are ready for firefighting, and will be under the command of Chief Patrick Trentacost. Pictured standing far right is Captain Chris Mandeville, the group's main fire instructor at the academy. Mandeville is also a retired NYFD fire captain. Gentlemen: eyes open, ears on God, bless all of you and come home safe. Make your department proud!

WOMEN IN FIREFIGHTING If you have photos you would like to see in our Women in Firefighting feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

PROVIDED

Lt. Gianna Vulpis of the Lincroft Fire Company, Middletown Township.

CHRIS TOMPKINS WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM

Teaneck Couple Perishes in Tragic Three-Alarm House Fire TEANECK, NJ - Tragedy struck in Teaneck early Thursday morning, July 8th, as fire tore through a three-story home, claiming the lives of a young couple.

Multiple 9-1-1 calls came in just before 3:30 A.M. for a reported structure fire at 1161 Ar- JUMP TO FILE# lington Ave., with 071221123 possible entrapment. Units arrived within minutes to find a a three-story frame with heavy fire engulfing the second floor and attic. A third-alarm was transmitted as first due firefighters prepared to search for the missing occupants.

Primaries of the basement and first floor were negative, however searches of the upper floors were delayed due to fire conditions. An aggressive interior attack knocked down the heavy fire conditions on the second floor and companies began a search for the missing couple. While searching, heavy fire began to break through the roof and rear of the home. Firefighters were able to quickly knock down the remaining fire.

Teaneck and mutual aid companies continued to search while opening up and checking for extension and located the two bodies reported missing. The Bergen County Prosecutor's office was requested to the scene for an investigation.

One firefighter was transported to the hospital for burns to the knees and two others for heat exhaustion. Mutual aid from Hackensack, Englewood, Bergenfield, Dumont, Bogota, Leonia

CHRIS TOMPKINS WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM

and Ridgefield Park assisted on scene. The fire is believed to be accidental in nature, however still re-

mains under investigation.

- CHRIS TOMPKINS

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

August, 2021

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August, 2021

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RON JEFFERS

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CORPORATE INFORMATION 1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New Jersey edition - Vol. 28 No. 7 - is published monthly, 12 times a year for $36 per year by Belsito Communications, Inc., 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. Periodicals Postage Paid at Newburgh, NY and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, 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 the attention of the newspaper during the same month of publication. Printed in Canada.

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WEST NEW YORK, NJ With the morning featuring a humid 88 degrees, North Hudson firefighters were dispatched to a smoke alarm activation in a high rise at 5701 Boulevard East, around 10:00 A.M., July 7th.

When Second Battalion Chief Robert Morrison arrived, he observed heavy smoke coming from a 23rd floor balcony and ordered the 3 engine and one truck AFA assignment to be filled out to a fire assignment.

The building involved is called Excel on the Hudson and extends from Boulevard East to Park Avenue. The fire was on the Park Avenue side, where part of the assignment reports to. As B.C. Morrison exited his vehicle, he observed, and reported, a man standing in the smoke on the balcony.

The four members of Tower Ladder 3 entered the apartment, closed the door, and crawled passed the flames, making a quick primary search, and then to the balcony. They assisted the occupant to the balcony of the next apartment by knocking down a light weight partition. Firefighters closed the balcony door, depriving the flames of oxygen, before Engine Co. 9 advanced a hose line into the apartment. Tower Ladder

JUMP TO FILE #070921104

3 members then entered the adjacent apartment with the victim, and to safety, according to responders.

The woman in the adjacent apartment assisted firefighters by letting them use the area for staging and rehab, as there was an elevator malfunction in the building.

She also supplied firefighters with several cases of water that she had in stock for the summer weather.

A second-alarm was struck, by Deputy Chief Dave Donnarumma, for additional resources. Incoming units were told to bring spare air bottles up to the scene.

West New York spokesman Grant Ludmer said the occupant was hospitalized for smoke inhalation and minor burns, plus four firefighters were treated at the scene for minor injuries. He added that 23 residents were displaced from 10 apartments.

According to Mayor Gabriel Rodriguez, the fire started from a cooking accident inside of the apartment.

- RON JEFFERS

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

August, 2021

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Kentucky: Garry Key, 70 Rank: Acting Chief Incident Date: January 10, 2021 Death Date: February 13, 2021 Fire Department: Zoneton Fire Protection District Initial Summary: Acting Chief Garry Key developed COVID-19 while on-duty from attending mandated fire department meetings and other fire department functions. He passed away on Saturday, February 13, 2021 from the virus.

New Jersey: John Jonker, Sr., 80 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: February 10, 2021 Death Date: February 10, 2021 Fire Department: Erskine Lakes Fire Company #1 Initial Summary: On Wednesday, February 10, 2021, Firefighter John Jonker, Sr., participated in a training drill at the fire department. Shortly after returning home, he collapsed from an apparent heart attack. He was unable to be revived and passed away.

Arkansas: Edward Karriem, 41 Rank: Battalion Chief Incident Date: February 13, 2021 Death Date: February 13, 2021 Fire Department: Little Rock Fire Department Initial Summary: On Saturday, February 13, 2021, Battalion Chief Edward Karriem was the commanding officer at the scene of a residential fire. He was found unresponsive in his vehicle and firefighters immediately performed CPR. He was then transported to the hospital where he later passed away. The cause of his death is under investigation.

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Pennsylvania: Phillip Craig Ginter, 57 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: February 20, 2021 Death Date: February 21, 2021 Fire Department: Beavertown Rescue Hose Company Initial Summary: While working a four-alarm fire at a local farm, Firefighter Phillip Craig Ginter became ill as he helped to pump water at a designated fill site.

Ginter became unresponsive and had no pulse before

EMS arrived. As a result, responders on scene administered CPR on Ginter. Once EMS arrived, Ginter was transported to Geisinger Lewistown Hospital where he passed away.

Pennsylvania: John Evans, 64 Rank: Fire Boat Pilot Incident Date: January 19, 2021 Death Date: February 13, 2021 Fire Department: Philadelphia Fire Department Initial Summary: While stationed at his assignment at the Marine Unit, Fire Boat Pilot John Evans contracted COVID-19. He passed away from the virus on Saturday, February 13, 2021.

Michigan: Jeff Brozich, 57 Rank: Captain Incident Date: March 1, 2021 Death Date: March 1, 2021 Fire Department: Madison Heights Fire Department Initial Summary: On Monday, March 1, 2021, while on duty at the fire station, Captain Jeff Brozich suffered a heart attack and passed away.

Kentucky: Ronald Ingram, 72 Rank: Captain Incident Date: March 3, 2021 Death Date: March 3, 2021 Fire Department: Woodford County Fire Protection District Initial Summary: Captain Ronald Ingram was part of a response to a shed fire. Shortly after his arrival onscene, Ingram collapsed. CPR was immediately initiated, and Ingram was then transported to a local hospital where he passed away.

Indiana: Martin "Marty" Meyers, 50 Rank: Captain Incident Date: February 9, 2021 Death Date: March 4, 2021 Fire Department: Kokomo Fire Department Initial Summary: While on-duty, Captain Martin “Marty” Meyers contracted COVID-19 at the fire department. He passed away from the virus on Thursday, March 4, 2021.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

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A Special Inspection Day for a Junior Firefighter UPS & DOWNS Notes from Ron Jeffers

On July 5th, this year's recognized Independence Day holiday, the Ridgefield Park Fire Department held its annual inspection and awards ceremony at the Memorial Bell on Euclid Avenue. After an absence, due to COVID-19 last year, firefighters, village officials, families and friends gathered once again to keep the tradition alive.

The inspection of apparatus and equipment was suspended, this year. Instead, the mayor and commissioners made the rounds to all six fire companies, parked on the street, where members displayed firefighting and life-saving equipment and explained their usages.

Also, the cost of such vital equipment to protect local residents.

The ceremony was very special this year, with life-saving awards presented to first responders who saved the life of one of their own.

Chief of Department John Antola, Jr., read the details of the incident to the assembly. On March 14th, the Fire Department was dispatched to a reported dumpster fire in a lot off of Mt. Vernon St. First arriving Engine 3 reported a pile of trash burning in the rear of a restaurant. While stretching in, Firefighter Brian Dolch and Junior Firefighter Nick Arciuolo heard a hissing sound coming from the seat of the fire. In seconds, a large explosion occurred, and critically injured the junior member.

It was later discovered that two Co 2 bottles, used for beverage dispensing, had been placed at a storage box and the fire apparently

caused one to explode.

Firefighter Dolch called out a “mayday,” reporting a firefighter down. First Lt. Dave Zilante then dragged the junior member away from the scene for medical assistance. Assistant Chief James VanDer Tulip radioed in a “mayday' to headquarters, asking for ALS and BLS units respond to the scene with a “rush".

Medical attention, including a leg tourniquet, was applied by Police Officer Steve Fernandez, Firefighter Brian Nevins, and a member of the Teaneck Ambulance Corps, along with the junior's father, ExChief Peter Arciuolo.

The first responders actions are credited with saving the life of Junior Firefighter Nick Arciuolo.

Firefighter Arciuolo is still recovering from his injuries, but he stood tall at the Fire Department event, alongside of his Engine Co. 3 members. He recently graduated high school. According to his father, he loves being a firefighter.

Firefighter Arciuolo presented life saving awards to Police Officer Steve Fernandez and Firefighter Brian Nevins. Unit Citations were presented to Assistant Chief James VanDer Tulip, Ex-Chief Peter Arciuolo, First Lt. Dave Zilante and Firefighter Brian Dolch.

Upon completion of the ceremony, firefighters removed their uniform coats, on this warm morning, and took a break before proudly marching in the village's 127th Independence Day parade.

UPS: New members of the Elizabeth Fire Department are Firefighters Reina, Parry, Conoshenti, Masciandaro, Feehan, Alkhulani, Garcia, Gahrmann, Kelly, Maldonado, Macnab, Santos and Zatko.

DOWNS: Firefighters worked to extinguish four fires on the property of the McNeal Mansion in Burlington, June 7th. According to officials, the fires started around 3:45

RON JEFFERS

(L to R): Ridgefield Park Ex-Chief Peter Arciuolo, Firefighter Brian Nevins, Police Officer Steve Fernandez and Junior Firefighter Nick Arciuolo. Nevins and Fernandez received life saving awards during the fire department ceremony.

RON JEFFERS

Ridgefield Park Junior Firefighter Nick Arciuolo (white shirt) presents Police Officer Steve Fernandez with a village life saving award, during the fire department's annual Independence Day inspection, held this year on July 5th.

a.m. and damaged an outhouse, carriage house, warehouse and another structure.

UPS: Firefighters rescued a woman who had been badly burned on her hands and feet during an apartment fire at the Cherrywood Apartments in Gloucester Twp., June 5th. She was trapped in an upstairs unit, officials said. She was taken to Cooper Trauma Center.

DOWNS: Two firefighters suffered heat exhaustion and were hospitalized due to a fast-moving fire in an attached garage that extended to a Ramapo Valley Rd. home in Oakland, on a hot and humid June 8th.

UPS: In June, the American Lung Association in New Jersey hosted its 8th annual Fight For Air Climb at the Red Bulls Arena in Harrison.

Participants include first responders from throughout the state. The event raised $40,000. This year, the event took place outdoors for the safety of participants, volunteers and staff, according to a press release.

DOWNS: A fire raced through the second-floor and attic area of an East Clinton Ave. dwelling in Bergenfield, June 11th. A resident and her son got out safely, officials said.

UPS: Driving home from work, an off duty South Vineland Fire Company volunteer firefighter rescued a woman trapped in a burning Millville dwelling, in June. Shane Zanes works as a correctional police sergeant at Cumberland County Jail, and is also a volunteer fire lieutenant. Zanes heard the alarm trans-

mitted for the Millville fire and he was first to arrive. He encountered flames and a heavy smoke condition in the one-story home. A man in the street told Zanes that his bed-ridden wife was trapped about six-feet from the door. Without the benefit of protective gear, Zanes crawled through the doorway, where there was intense heavy fire and smoke.

He heard the woman cry out and followed her voice, he said. Zanes reached her and got her out to safety. The victim was taken to Inspira M.C. in Vineland, where her condition was not immediately known, according to an article in the Daily Journal.

DOWNS: At least two people were reported to be seriously injured as the result of a dwelling fire on E. Main St. in Wrightstown, June 15th.

UPS: On June 10th, Hampton's firefighters presented the fire company's Ladies Auxiliary with a first of a kind award. Each member was named “Firefighter of the Year.”

They were honored for “all of their years of outstanding support.” The auxiliary was formed in 1939.

DOWNS: Flames damaged the High Anxiety water slide ride at Mountain Creek Water Park in Vernon, June 15th.

UPS: On June 16th the Perth Amboy Fire Department held a memorial service to honor the “Eagle Nine.” In 1921, nine city firemen lost their lives when a train, at the corner of Market and Elm, collided with a piece of fire apparatus that was responding to a fire. The train tracks were at street level and trains

traveled at high speeds as they entered the city, officials said. The gate tender had not lowered the crossing gates due to the fire alarm that was coming in, according to historian John Leo Fedorka, causing the collision with the train known as the Barnegat Express. Relatives of the those members, local officials and firefighters were in attendance for a plaque unveiling that will stand at that corner, inside the new train station. The lost members were: Chief George T. Larson, and Firemen James Anderson, John Donegan, Hans Holt, Victor Janderup, Joseph Kutcher, Peter Larson, John Mowrey and John Torgesen. The crash was said to be the largest loss of firemen in a single accident in New Jersey.

DOWNS: Twenty-three residents were displaced and a city firefighter was injured as the result of a 2alarm fire involving three dwellings on South 14th St. in Newark, June 17th. The firefighter sustained a minor neck injury, according to Public Safety Director Brian O'Hara.

UPS: On June 11th, the Avenel Fire Department, in Woodbridge Twp., swore in two new career members to bring staffing to 13. They are Firefighters Thomas Karlin and Anthony Torres. In addition, Adam Karlin was promoted to provisional captain.

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

August, 2021

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ALL IN THE FAMILY If you have photos you would like to see in our “All In The Family” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

Just a few….

FORK & HOSE CO. a Food Blog by A.J. Fusco

Recipes don’t have to be complicated to be good. Many times, the best meals are the simplest. A good recipe does not have to read like a dictionary of ingredients. Sometimes all it takes is three quality ingredients, simple execution and a confident cook.

Why three ingredients you ask? After three, a recipe can start to get muddled down, resembling more of a hodgepodge of flavor

RON JEFFERS

Ridgefield Park Firefighter Ani Malool, left, with her father, John, at the department's annual inspection and awards ceremony, on July 5th. Ani received her 15-years of service award during the annual event.

and textures. Keeping the amount of components to a minimum does a few things. First and foremost it allows the ingredients to shine. This is why choosing quality is of the utmost importance. Organic, fresh produce is best, especially if in season. I highly suggest going to your local farmers markets for fruits and vegetables.

It is a great way to learn what grows in your area, which is what usually will taste best. Buy the best meat you can that is within your budget, such as grass-fed beef, pasture raised pork and free-range chicken. Quality meat can make a huge difference when you are cooking it simply with a few other ingredients. You could also shop the local farmers market for this as

well. Using only a few items also helps in keeping costs down, which is always a good thing, especially in the firehouse. It will also allow your budget to be spent on those quality ingredients we just spoke about. And lastly, it helps simplify a recipe, which is important, especially for the new cooks out there. Some recipes can seem daunting with too many steps, which can be discouraging to some. Keeping it simple builds confidence in the kitchen with basic cooking techniques, which will only make you a better cook.

This recipe for Grilled Chicken Caprese uses only a few ingredients, making it a quick and easy meal that’s also delicious, especially in the summer!

GRILLED CHICKEN CAPRESE Serves 4 Ingredients: 2 Boneless/Skinless Chicken Breast, halved (or 4 thin cutlets) 2 Ripe Tomatoes, sliced about ½” thick 2 Cups Shredded Mozzarella Sea Salt, to taste Black Pepper, to taste 1 tsp. Dried Oregano EVOO 1 Bunch Fresh Basil Procedure: -Preheat the grill to mediumhigh heat. Spray with a nonstick or oil grates.

RON JEFFERS

Rain on their dress blues didn't stop this family of firefighters from attending the 33rd Hackensack firefighters memorial on July 1st.

River Edge Assistant Chief and retired Hackensack Fire Lieutenant, Greg Cariddi, center, with his two River Edge volunteer firefighter sons, Brendan and Jonathan, joined their fellow firefighters to pay their respects.

-Drizzle EVOO over chicken breasts. Season with salt, pepper and oregano.

-Place chicken on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes. Flip and top with tomato slices and shredded cheese. Cover the grill and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until cooked through to 165° internal temp.

-Remove from the grill and drizzle with EVOO. Tear basil leaves on top and serve.

cescott@valtekinc.com

AJ FUSCO

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

August, 2021

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1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

Ups & Downs Continued from Page 8 DOWNS: A cooking accident was believed to be the cause of a fire that injured a Newark Avenue woman in Jersey City, June 14th. The victim suffered severe burns to nearly 50 percent of her body and was taken to St. Barnabas M.C. for treatment, officials said.

UPS: Effective on June 16th, the following were appointed as probationary members of the Hackensack F.D.: Matthew Carroll, Manuel Castano, Warren Fernandez-Williams and Chelsea Spethmann.

DOWNS: Approximately 250 people were evacuated from their homes due to a heavy volume of fire at C's Picnic grocery store on Squankum Rd. in Lakewood, June 20th.

UPS: Firefighters of the newly established Station 76 Fire Department, in Manchester, recently took their oath of office, sworn in by Mayor Kenneth Palmer. Station 76 is the community's first paid fire department. Roger Brown was sworn in as captain. The career firefighters are: Andrew Christensen, Michael Ott, Neal Lelievre, Salem Bahr, Mark Costner, John Filardo, Daniel Mechkowski and Rachel Murray.

They also have EMT training.

DOWNS: A silo fire at the American Custom Drying complex in Burlington, June 22nd, caused the evacuation of employees. Officials believe the flames were sparked by dust.

UPS: On June 21st, U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr., co-chair of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, marked the 20th anniversary of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program, which was created by Rep. Pascraell's FIRE Act. Since its inception, the AFG program has provided $9.25 billion to fire departments nationwide, including $198,500,000 in grants to New Jersey fire departments. Pascrell was joined by government officials, chiefs and firefighters from throughout New Jersey at a ceremony in Paterson. “Integral to the FIRE Act was the late Chief Lou Imparato of the Passaic Fire Department,” said Pascrell.

“Simply put, the FIRE Act would not have been possible without Lou's

help in conceiving the bill and bringing all groups together to push in the same direction.”

DOWNS: A huge cloud of black smoke rose above the Home Depot store on Route 130 in Hamilton Township, June 23rd, that involved a section of solar panels on top of the store's roof. No injuries were reported.

UPS: On the evening of June 22nd, Paterson Battalion Chief Kenneth Kiefer responded to a report of a car into a building and fire at Spruce & Oliver St.'s. The chief found an SUV had ran through gas station pumps and crashed against a boat and auto. There was a strong odor of gasoline with flames showing from the passenger side of the SUV. The chief heard screams coming from the vehicle. Chief Kiefer couldn't get the driver's door or passenger door open and went to the hatchback.

It was unlocked, and the chief opened the door to encounter a wall of heat and smoke, according to TAP into Paterson. The chief reached into the vehicle and pulled the driver, who was now curled up in the back seat, out of the SUV to safety.

DOWNS: A dwelling on Kristian Dr. in Sicklerville was heavily damaged by a fire on June 24th. A total of five homes suffered some damage as a result of the fire, officials said.

UPS: The Bayville Fire Company celebrated 75 years of service at Berkeley's “Sound of Summer” concert series and fireworks display, June 23rd.

DOWNS: A Manchester homeowner escaped flames in her Tern Court home, but her dog was unable to get out and died, June 25th. The homeowner was taken to Southern Ocean Medical Center for treatment of smoke inhalation, officials said.

UPS: Cape May's 1928 American LaFrance pumper has returned to the firehouse after a 5-year restoration project in Harleysville, Pa., as per the firefighter's Facebook page. Department members thanked “C” shift Lt. Jeff Laag for his time and effort seeing the project through.

DOWNS: About eight families were displaced after a 3-alarm fire at the Riverwalk Condos in Clifton,

June 26th. One person was treated for smoke inhalation, officials said.

UPS: In Parsippany, Mount Tabor firefighters have moved in to a new firehouse on Tabor Rd., on the site of an old firehouse, according to the Parsippany “Patch.” This department has a total of three houses and covers about nine-square-miles in Parsippany. The new building is about 12,000-square-feet with offices, storage space, a gym and meeting room.

There is space for four pieces of fire apparatus and a special bay for a ParTroy ambulance.

DOWNS: One Newark firefighter was injured and four police officers treated for smoke inhalation as the result of a fire in a Mapes Ave. dwelling, July 6th, officials said.

About 18 families were relocated.

UPS: Promotions in the Teaneck Fire Department include M. Notarangelo to battalion chief, M. Brown to captain and S. Van Mater to lieutenant.

DOWNS: Two residents of an Arlington Ave. dwelling, in Teaneck, died as the result of a 3-alarm fire on the morning of July 8th. Firefighters tried to rescue the residents, but they were turned back by heavy fire, officials said. The top floor of the the building was fully involved. The bodies were found in an attic apartment, according to reports. Two other residents were able to escape the burning house. One township firefighter suffered leg burns and two others were treated for heat exhaustion. It is believed the fire started on the lower floors.

UPS: On July 7th, Port Authority Lincoln Tunnel tunnel and bridge agents (TBA) responded to a cardiac arrest victim on a transit bus on the Weehawken side of the tunnel. STBA Schuyler, TBA Puleo and TBA Crisostomo arrived along with Port Authority police officers and began CPR. A defibrillator was also utilized, officials said. They continued resuscitation until the patient regained a pulse and began breathing. Weehawken EMS arrived and provided further treatment, after which the victim was able to walk off of the bus.

CHRIS TOMPKINS WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM

Quick Work by Englewood Firefighters on Memorial Day ENGLEWOOD, NJ - Firefighters battled a quick second-alarm on the north side of town on the afternoon of Memorial Day, May 31st. Around 4:30 P.M., Englewood firefighters were dispatched to 231 Prospect Street for a reported fire. Upon arrival, command transmitted a working fire which was followed by a second-alarm for smoke showing from a two-story multiple occupied dwelling and fire burning through the exterior wall on the 'Bravo' side. Firefighters pulled two hand lines, stretching one to the first and one to the second, and quickly knocked down the fire. Crews remained on scene checking for extension and hitting hot spots. No injuries were reported. Mutual aid from Hackensack, Teaneck and Tenafly assisted on scene.

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@1stResponderNews.com.

MICHAEL CUCCARO

The Long Valley First Aid Squad operates this 2003 Ford F-550 4x4/SWAB Champion, previously operated by Tamaqua Rescue in Tamaqua, Pennsylvania.

DAMIEN DANIS

This Ford Expedition was a chief's unit for the Saddle Brook Fire Dept. It has been given to the SBVAC as a support unit for the Corps.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

August, 2021

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1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

August, 2021

DRILLS/TRAINING To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

Budd Lake and Allamuchy Fire Departments recently held a combined drill at an acquired structure that is slated for demolition.

The firefighters honed their skills on search and rescue in this twostory house.

LONG VALLEY FIRST AID SQUAD

Long Valley First Aid Squad Rescue Services establishing the haul system.

CIRONE PHOTOS

Firefighters receiving a briefing on the drill.

CIRONE PHOTOS

Firefighters practice bringing victims out Division 2.

OLD & NEW If you have photos you would like to see in our “Old & New” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

RON JEFFERS

In Franklin Township, Somerset District 1 Engine 561's 2020 Seagrave 2000-GPM pumper, right, has replaced old 561, which is now designated Engine 8. Engine 8 is a 1998 Seagrave 1500-GPM model that is used as a duty engine by fire marshal members. It received the number eight graphics in 2021.

Long Valley FAS Conducts Rope Rescue at Schooley’s Mountain Park WASHINGTON TWP., NJ On June 19th, the Long Valley First Aid Squad and Rescue Services was dispatched by Morris County Communications to Schooley's Mountain Park at 91 E Springtown Road for an injured JUMP TO FILE# hiker. The Long 062121113 Valley First Aid Squad responded with Rescue-1, Rescue-2, Rescue3, Support-2, EMS3, and Command.

The Morris County Communications Center was able to gather accurate GPS data off the caller's phone and pinpoint the location of the injured party, enabling them to coordinate the response of EMS and Rescue Services to the scene.

Long Valley Rescue Services made entrance to the park and quickly located the patient about a quarter mile down the blue trail near the waterfalls. The victim was at the bottom of a 25-30 foot steep rock face that was wet and slippery due to weather conditions.

A LVFAS EMT/Rope Rescue Technician was able to safely rappel down the rock face to the patient to assess and stabilize injuries. Thankfully, the patient was stable but non-ambulatory.

The subject was packaged and secured to our Cascade Rescue Company litter.

LVFAS Rescue Services rigged a low angle haul system with main and belay lines using MPD's with a 3:1 mechanical advantage. Within 30 minutes of LVFAS Rescue Services making patient access, the subject was stabilized and packaged, rope system rigged, and the patient was hauled to the top of the rock

LONG VALLEY FIRST AID SQUAD

Long Valley First Aid Squad Rescue Services receiving the patient at the top of the rock face.

face.

Upon landing the patient at the top of the rock face, the patient was then transferred onto our Cascade Rescue Company litter wheel. The Long Valley Fire Company and the Morris County Park Police assisted LVFAS Rescue Services and EMS with carrying the patient back over a quartermile of rough terrain with loose, wet rocks and over 100-feet of el-

evation gain. The patient was then transferred to Long Valley Rescue3, a 2010 Polaris Ranger 6x6 with a Kimtek Medlite transport body, and transported another approximate quarter-mile from the trail entrance across the lake to the staging area for further evaluation by the BLS crew from Long Valley EMS-3.

- MICHAEL CUCCARO

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

August, 2021

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Shop online at www.MidAtlanticRescue.com

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August, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

RON JEFFERS

Hackensack Lt. Tim Rice, holding the nozzle, working at a 3-alarm fire on Main Street in 2015.

Another Young Firefighter Succums to Cancer Morning Fire Guts Bergenfield Home

BILL TOMPKINS – WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM

HACKENSACK, NJ - Even though first responders knew the seriousness of his cancer, the public safety community was still devastated when they learned that he was gone.

Tim Rice, 42, was a fire lieutenant assigned to Hackensack Engine Co. 2. He was also a volunteer fire captain with Paramus Company 4, and he was slated to become an assistant chief next year.

Lt. Rice lost his battle with cancer at Hackensack University Medical Center on June 12th.

“Tim was a fireman's fireman, always there to help out in the firehouse, with activities, and any time anyone needed a hand or someone to talk to,” according to the H.F.D. Facebook page.

Lt. Rice, husband and father of two, began his public safety career 24-years ago as a 9-1-1 dispatcher for the Paramus Police

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Department, and as a borough volunteer firefighter. He approached his friends on the Hackensack Fire Department and asked them for advice and aide to become a career firefighter-his number one goal.

Lt. Rice was appointed to the H.F.D. on January 24th, 2004. He was promoted to lieutenant on December 13th, 2018.

When he was sworn in as a lieutenant, he thanked Lt. Lenny “Uncle” Coyman for guiding him into the, “Greatest job in the world.”

“We ask why the great ones are taken soon and we can't find the answer,” said Hackensack Fire Captain Justin Derevyanik.

BERGENFIELD, NJ - Flames rapidly extended throughout a single-family home in Bergenfield on June 11th, leaving the structure uninhabitable, but causing no injuries.

Fire units were initially dispatched shortly before 7:00 A.M. to 21 E. Clinton Ave. Heavy fire was showing from the 'C' side over an attached garage, 'A' and 'B' side second floor, into the attic area and above the roof. A second-alarm was immediately transmitted as a deck gun was quickly put into operation and a water supply established.

The 'B' exposure building was

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suffering serious exposure issues with melting siding and charring.

The master stream was effective in knocking down a large amount of fire, allowing companies to enter the structure with lines to perform a search. The initial report of people trapped proved unfounded. A thirdalarm was sounded as the Englewood truck laddered the roof and vented.

Several areas of collapsed

flooring hindered movement inside as companies opened up. Within one hour good progress was being made on the first and second floors, but heavy smoke continued to vent from the attic. Flames showed from several areas of the roof before all visible fire was knocked down. Extensive overhaul followed before mutual aid units were able to pick up. Mutual aid at the scene was provided by Englewood, Teaneck, Tenafly, Dumont, Bogota and New Milford.

- BILL TOMPKINS

FACES OF NEW JERSEY’S EMERGENCY SERVICES To see your Faces in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com, email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com or mail them to 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore Street. New Windsor, NY 12553,

- RON JEFFERS

WORKING FACES If you have photos you would like to see in our Working Faces feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

RON JEFFERS

EJ RODE

Bogota Rescue Chief Wayne Sorge explains the use of extraction devices to squad members at the June 30th drill.

On Father's Day, Jersey City Captain Vic "Buddy" Petrucelli, left, retired. He was appointed to the F.D.J.C. on Aug. 16th, 1982, and he was promoted to captain on Jan. 13, 1989. Petrucelli was one of the original captains assigned to Rescue Co. 1 (Group B) when the company was re-organized on April 26th, 1991, and he retired from that company on June 20th. His son, Andrew, is a member of Rescue 1 (Group B) and nephew Stephen is a member of Engine 17 (Group C). On his last tour, he was honored with a drive by of all fire companies, from all four battalions, in front of the Communipaw Avenue firehouse, to wish the veteran captain well in his retirement. In the photo, Captain Petrucelli is seen with his crew on November 7th, 2018, when Rescue 1 placed their new Pierce apparatus into service, following a brief ceremony and blessing at Fire Headquarters.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

Vehicle News

RON JEFFERS

Hopewell Rescue 52 is a Rosenbauer Commander model 2000GPM/1000-GWT/40-GFT-A/20-GFT-B rescue-pumper.

RON JEFFERS

In 2021, the Quakertown Fire Co. of Franklin Twp. (Hunterdon County) acquired this 2008 Pierce Dash 2000-GPM/300-GWT/50GFT/75-foot quint that saw original duty as Yardley-Makefield, Pa., Ladder 0.

RON JEFFERS

In 2020, Bayonne re-organized Engine Co. 7 with this 2003 American LaFrance/1991 E-One body 1250-GPM/500-GWT/50-GFT pumper.

August, 2021

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August, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

LITTLE BIG GUYS If you have photos you would like to see in our Little Big Guys feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

A-25 of the Tenafly Volunteer Ambulance Corps., (Bergen County), is this 2014 ASAP Medstat 500, 6x6 mini ambulance. These ambulances are designed to negotiate rough terrain where a full size ambulance would either not be able to get in, or would risk serious damage in doing so. They are also used in congested areas such as at events with crowds and places of limited access. The idea is to remove a patient and bring them to a waiting ambulance for further transport to a hospital. This unit has an 870 cc Polaris engine.

It can fit two patients (one on a cot and the other on a squad bench) along with an attendant in the rear. The rear also has overhead storage toward the front for medical supplies and below it has storage for three size “D" oxygen cylinders and three boxes of disposable gloves. On the right exterior wall is an exterior compartment with immobilization equipment. It carries an AED, has a 2800 watt Onan generator and a 4500-pound front winch. It is painted Tenafly’s colors which are orange and black.

NJ STATE FIREMEN'S HOME

Members of the BCFHA after the picnic.

Bergen County Firemen’s Home Association Sponsors Much-Anticipated Barbecue at the Firemen’s Home in Boonton BOONTON, NJ - On the afternoon of June 13th, the Bergen County Firemen’s Home Association in partnership with the Firemen’s Home of Boonton, NJ sponsored our annual barbecue that we run each June for residents and their families. It was the first time since our February 2020 meeting that we had been at the home and had seen our fellow firefighters.

These residents had been through a lot during COVID and we wanted to cheer them up.

The weather was a bit gloomy that day with light rain intermittent with the activities, but that did not stop residents who were brought out into the lawn in front of the home to enjoy their meal and a little comradery with their fellow firefighters. Family members are always invited, making this a much anticipated event every year. The tents we provided and the gazebo that was a previous gift to the home

JUMP TO FILE #070121104

from us kept everyone dry.

The members of the kitchen staff cooked a wonderful barbecue lunch that included chili, hamburgers, hot dogs, ribs, potato and cole slaw salads, corn on the cob, baked beans and fresh watermelon for dessert. One of the member’s wives even baked special cakes for an extra treat for dessert.

A member of the Bergen County Firemen’s Pipe & Drum opened the entertainment festivities, volunteering his time to entertain our fellow brothers with traditional songs on the bagpipes.

Their performance was followed by an afternoon concert from BCFMA member, DJ Johnny Mac aka John McLoughlin, from the Demarest Fire Department.

This day was enjoyed by the

residents of the Firemen’s Home, who always relish an afternoon out.

Everyone had a great time. This wonderful event could not happen without the help of the staff of the Firemen’s Home of Boonton, NJ, especially the Activities and Kitchen staff, which does such a great job cooking the food, providing the set up and getting the residents outside.

The members of the Bergen County Firemen’s Home Association, a group of dedicated firefighters and retired firefirefighters from the various firehouses in Bergen County, NJ, did a great job serving all the residents and their families.

The barbecue is paid for from donations made to the Bergen Country Firemen’s Association Fund that is generously funded by fire company donations from all over Bergen County, NJ.

JOHN M. MALECKY

A-25 in Tenafly is this 2014 ASAP Medstat 500 mini ambulance.

- JUSTIN WATREL

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JOHN M. MALECKY

Rear of Tenafly's A-25 shows Stryker cot and part of squad bench.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

August, 2021

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Bring Out the Fire Trucks, Again!

JAMESBURG, NJ - With COVID-19 dissipating in our area, and many things returning to a new-normal, the Tri-Counties Fire Association held their 29th Annual Antique Fire Apparatus Show at Thompson County Park, June 27th. Firefighters, their families and friends, turned out to participate in the Sunday event, with 58 pieces of fire apparatus.

The familiar flea market tables were present at the muster, and the Jamesburg Fire Department members operated a refreshment stand for the hungry and thirsty participants. Kids enjoyed looking at all of the fire trucks and watching the 10:30 A.M. parade through town, with apparatus emergency lights flashing and sirens blasting. Some kids even got to ride on a fire truck.

The featured apparatus model for this year was Hahn fire apparatus, and there were plenty represented. Red ones, white ones and lime colored Hahn pumpers.

When the parade was over, some engines went lakeside to draft and flow water through hoses and monitors. They also supplied a privately owned 1989 Mack tower ladder that flowed water over Lake Manalapan.

Judges examined the rigs in the parking lot, kept clean and in proper working order, proudly maintained by fire companies or private owners.

Arthur Green II, Long Branch FD historian and chief engineer of Neptune Hose Co. 1, kept cleaning his 1890 horse-drawn hose wagon, that belonged to his fire company. Green brought along literature showing the history of the wagon, and relayed his vast knowledge of the LBFD. The wagon was restored by a carriage house in New England. Green received the Burner Award for best restored apparatus. In addition, he said the LBFD went fully motorized by 1923.

Harold Mermel drove in with his replica of an FDNY 1911 Ford Model T Torpedo Runabout car.

He possessed literature describing 10 of these autos that were assembled for use by city fire chiefs.

This group were vehicles built for use by the city division chiefs, as per retired FDNY Battalion Chief

JUMP TO FILE #071421100

John A. Calderone, who was present at the muster. A rear box was included that held a fire extinguisher, coil of rope and other items. Missing on the replica was a rocking type locomotive bell that was mounted in the area where the windshield is normally located, that was part of the original vehicles.

Another rig that drew a lot of interest by participants was a 1951 Seagrave tractor-drawn aerial ladder. Literature describes the rig as being built in the first year of Seagrave's “70th Anniversary Series” models, and the only 75-foot tractor-drawn aerial ladder made in 1951. The price was $32,000, and it was delivered to Union Fire Company 2 in Mount Holly. It saw duty there until 1976. It was then sold to Masonville Fire Company 1, in Mount Laurel. The rig was retired from active fire duty in 1988. It was refurbished in 2004 by Lee's Emergency Equipment, and is still around for new generations of firefighters and fire buffs to enjoy.

The afternoon wound down with the presentation of awards for the apparatus, in various categories.

The muster was held on a day that began cloudy and gloomy, but the sun later made its appearance.

Again, the Tri-Counties committee set up a spot for apparatus buffs to photograph rigs as they entered the park, and before they stopped at the registration stand.

Mother Nature did let the clouds part for some of the earlier photography.

This day also marked the beginning of a heat wave in New Jersey, but the weather conditions waited for one more day before getting really uncomfortable. A breeze, under the trees, helped!

Congratulations to the TriCounties Fire Association for another great day, when we needed it. As the master of ceremony said over the speaker at the end of the day, “See you next year.”

- RON JEFFERS

RON JEFFERS

The parade of fire apparatus begins at the annual Tri-Counties muster in Jamesburg, June 27th.

RON JEFFERS

Long Branch FD historian and chief engineer of Neptune Hose Co. 1, Arthur Green III, maintains his 1890 horse-drawn hose wagon that saw duty with his company.

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August, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

NEW JERSEY GIGS

NEW JERSEY MEMORIES

If you have photos you would like to see in our “NJ Gigs” feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

If you have photos you would like to see in our “NJ Memories” feature, please upload them to our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

RON JEFFERS

Harold Mermel, of Morganville, attended the Tri-Counties muster with his replica of an FDNY Ford Model T Torpedo open runabout auto. This vehicle is similar to ten purchased by the FDNY in 1911 to be used by division chiefs.

JOHN A. CALDERONE

East Paterson (now known as Elmwood Park) Engine Co. 2 operated with this Mack 1000-GPM pumper.

ROBERT P. HENNION

This 2013 Tahoe Command vehicle is currently operated by Chief Robert Hennion of the Haworth Fire Department.

JOHN A. CALDERONE ROBERT P. HENNION

Fair Lawn Engine 2 used this Mack 1000-GPM apparatus.

This 2017 red Tahoe Command vehicle is currently operated by Haworth Fire Department Assistant Fire Chief Troy Hilcken.

RON JEFFERS

University Hospital, in Newark, supervisor Car 402 is a 2020 Chevy Tahoe.

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Well Respected Dispatcher Retires After Long Career UNION CITY, NJ - Debbie Peek-Fernandez possessed public safety in her blood for most of her life, beginning with becoming a police explorer in Union City. In 1984, she became a fire dispatcher for the North Hudson communications center, way before five areadepartments merged into the current North Hudson Regional Fire & Rescue. After a long and dedicated career, Dispatcher 920 worked her last tour of duty on June 29th.

Fire Control, as it is known, started in 1982 combining the alarm rooms of Union City, North Bergen, West New York and Weehawken. Later, Guttenberg joined the system.

As a dispatcher for five different departments, the radio room members had to work with five different procedures, different tours in each department and their procedures, radio frequencies, and more. Hard copy alarm reports were color coded for the different municipalities.

In 1988, Dispatcher Peek-Fernenadz was promoted to shift supervisor. She held that position until retirement.

The original communications center was located in a separate area of West New York Engine Co. 4's firehouse at 4911 Broadway, West New York, with three dispatchers assigned to a group. It was “homey,” and dispatchers and firefighters got along and supported each other. There was a window between the two sections of the building. When they had extra food, firefighters would pass along lunch or dinner goodies to the Fire Control dispatchers through the window. Fernandez said the firefighters called it a “one way window,” as the engine members passed along food to them-one way! Part of firehouse ribbing.

The North Hudson area consists of a lot of border lines. For example, when you walk out of the firehouse at 4911 Broadway, make a right turn and walk a few feet, you are in Union City. The border line, there, is in the middle of a city block. One block to the east, and you enter Weehawken.

In 1999, the five departments merged into the North Hudson Regional Fire & Rescue. The dispatch center remained in the firehouse until a new communications center was created in the firehouse at 4300 Kennedy Boulevard, in Union City. Federal funding helped create the new, and upgraded center, due to North Hudson being assigned to dispatch the marine units that are part of the New Jersey Regional Fire Boat Task Force. With more responsibility, four dispatchers are assigned to a shift.

Dispatcher Fernandez was known for her calm and professional manner and digging in when things got rough. The good

JUMP TO FILE #070121102

times and the bad. Working, and in tears, on the September morning in 2006 when Firefighter Vincent Neglia was killed in the line of duty at a fire on Bergenline Avenue. Keeping things operating in a professional manner. Participating in the annual Christmas parade, wrapping party and other department related events.

At the beginning of the 0800 hours radio test on June 29th, the known tough-no nonsense dispatcher became a bit broken up when she announced to all units that this was her last tour. During a visit by Group 4 Deputy Chief David Donnarumma, he told Dispatcher 920, “It takes a special person to do what you do.”

On the evening of her last tour, members of the firehouse from Rescue 1, Squad 1 and Battalion 2 set up tables and had dinner in the radio room with Supervisor Fernandez and her three dispatchers. There was also a special cake. Family, away from home.

Of course, during the tour she received firehouse “ribbing” and many phone calls, including retired members. They told Dispatcher 920 she was going to go out “with a bang!” Well, most of the tour was routine.

Things changed after sunrise.

Downstairs, in the firehouse kitchen, members saw a junkyard fire on television being reported from a news helicopter before the alarm was called in. The Group 4 dispatchers then turned out a full assignment for the fire on 91st Street, North Bergen. Companies reported a large column of smoke in the sky, while responding. Numerous vehicles were burning and live wires down. Water supplies were set up and the fire was held to an all hands with 9 companies, Safety 1, Deputy 1 and Battalions 3 and 2.

The companies on 43rd Street had turned out for the fire, putting a damper on plans for a surprise walk-out salute for Dispatcher Fernandez, from her buddies downstairs, as she left the building, after 7 a.m.

Never say “no.” The incoming tour, along with staff members and Group 4 Second Battalion Chief Robert Morrison, lined up for a bag-pipe salute, as the well respected and loved dispatcher left the building. The Group 1 members then boarded Rescue 2's apparatus to report to the fire and make reliefs.

During her last morning radio test, Chief of Department Frank Montagne radioed in, “You kept our firefighters safe and our community.”

- RON JEFFERS

RON JEFFERS

North Hudson Supervising Dispatcher Debbie Fernandez, 3rd from left, with her 4th Platoon crew. (L to R): Michael Lacenere, Robert Suckiel, Fernandez, Michelle Chemas and Communications Director Joe Isola.

RON JEFFERS

Dispatcher Fernandez received a bag-pipe salute as she left Fire Control after her final tour of duty, on the morning of June 30th.

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ACTION SHOTS If you have photos you would like to see in our “Action Shots” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

RON JEFFERS

Area firefighters, family, friends and local officials gathered for the 33rd memorial service for fallen Hackensack firefighters on July 1st.

Hackensack Never Forgets Their Fallen Brothers HACKENSACK, NJ - Despite a downpour, a large contingent of area fighters gathered at Fairmont Park on July 1st, in their dress uniforms, to pay their respect to city firefighters who lost their lives serving others. They assembled along with family, friends a local officials.

The park has a monument that represents the five members who gave their lives battling an auto dealership fire on July 1, 1988.

They are Captain Richard Williams, Lieutenant Richard Reinhagen and Firefighters Steven Ennis, William Krejsa and Leonard Radumski.

For the 33rd time, wreaths

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were placed at the monument, names of deceased members read, bagpipes sounded, prayers offered and a salute to those heroes. In addition, there are now five trees and monuments representing the dealership five that were planted, in 2020, as an Eagle Scout project.

Public safety is a constant business, as demonstrated by some pieces of fire apparatus leaving the memorial to answer alarms.

The department also suffered the loss of two popular members since they last assembled. Both Lt.

Tim Rice and Firefighter Richard Kubler succumbed to cancer.

On that day in 1988, city firefighters were relieved by mutual aid units so they could return to quarters for rehab and to call home.

There was a shower, and a rainbow rose above the fire scene. Was that a sign that the five heroes were now in Heaven and OK, up above?

Not all, but on many July 1st days since, there has been a shower before or after the memorial ceremony followed by a rainbow.

On this 2021 July 1st, there was no rainbow, but steady rain.

Tears from Heaven.

- RON JEFFERS

EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES

RON JEFFERS

North Hudson Deputy Chief Mike Falco, center, directs operations during a fire that involved the first and second floors of an old firehouse on 34th Street, Union City, July 3rd. The building is currently used for food supplies for the local Hasidic community. It was formerly a volunteer firehouse for the Town of Union (a.k.a. Union Hill) and Union City Engine Co. 4 when Union Hill and West Hoboken merged in 1925. It was also used as a city police repair shop and a city arts and crafts center.

If you have photos you would like to see in our “Emergency Medical Services” feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

EJ RODE DAMIEN DANIS

The Saddle Brook VAC Fire Rehab unit operating in Elmwood Park on June 6th, for a power line incident at Kipp and Ray Streets.

Bogota Hook & Ladder Firefighter Mike Englehardt extinguishing a car fire on River Road and Homestead Place on June 6th.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

The care of Senior Members Chaplain's Corner Didymus McHugh

I remember years ago, one fire department carried on its rolls people who were senior members.

These were men who have served many years. They may not have participated much on the regular runs, but they might have come out for major fires to support the younger crews. They may have brought food or coffee, or they may have watched the pump or help pick up after the fire.

The important thing was that these people were still useful and treated with respect. The way that fires were fought may have changed, since they stretched their lines, but listen to the principals.

You may find something that has been forgotten that is still very useful.

Many times, people are discarded because of their age or physical limitations. I think of fire companies or departments, who may work with a person of special needs. The person may only be able to wash a fire apparatus or perform some task that we may consider menial, but for them, it gives them dignity.

I have seen members retire and then lose their identity because they always went to the fire station or knew where the action was, because they were in the middle of it.

They may be in their home or in a nursing home but their mind may rekindle the fire from years ago and they get to fight the fire in their memories.

Wait a second, if the old firefighters, the firemen, want to tell their stories, why not write them down. Each town or city has its own history. We can record the firemen telling us the story of the fires and put that on a website as part of the department’s history. We can keep a record of the tools and techniques that were used. We can learn extrication techniques without having to use hydraulic tools of today or how to vent a roof without using a saw. I have never known an axe that would fail to start.

I think of people that I know through some of the fire organizations and I am honored to be working with men who are 95-years-old.

The older members come up with ideas that the younger people may forget about, the essentials, the fundamentals.

A while ago, some young firefighters were so sold on technology.

They were being taught about how to call a “mayday”, using their radios. Someone asked a question that most people did not think about: “how do I call a 'mayday' if you lose your portable radio or if it gets damaged”?. One of the senior members recounted that they would look out the window and see if they could find a fire chief or officer. If they could, they would take off their helmet and throw it at the chief or officer and see if they could hit them with the helmet. They said it was a sure way to get their attention.

Each one of us has value at all times. Let us continue to stay in touch with the people who should have our respect. These people are the reason why so many people wanted to be a firefighter or work in public safety and serve our fellow man.

Right now, we have many senior members who may not be able to

leave their homes, or are in nursing homes or have other challenges. Are these people now forgotten? How about doing a rotation on visiting them? Take your company or department roster, have people sign up so that the member has a visitor at least every weekend. Check to verify that your chaplain is making their rounds to visit and stay in touch with the senior members.

By visiting, you may be able to help the senior member continue to get benefits that they have earned for their service. You may really bring a smile to them and stay such a meaningful part of the family’s life.

I know plenty of senior members who may know or have known almost everyone in town, but today they may not be able to get out. They may be restricted as to where they may go. They may be restricted to a bed, a room or a facility. Please put yourself in their place. How would you feel? Bored, lonely, forgotten? I know that you may have other people who may want to join in a conversation, if in a nursing home, so allow for that in your time visiting.

Your visit brings smiles to people’s faces and you brighten their days.

To my senior members, I say thank you. To Uncle Emil, Walt, Chubby, Senior, CC, Big Ed, Dad, thank you for raising me and teaching me. May I always find a way to honor you.

Please continue to take care of the senior members. They have put their lives on the line. They may have taught you. They deserve our continued respect and compassion.

August, 2021

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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 Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

Stay safe, Didymus McHugh didymus-mchugh.com

APPARATUS IN ACTION

RON JEFFERS

"The Motor Vehicle Commission got it right. It's a 'TILLER'!"

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@1stResponderNews.com.

RON JEFFERS

"What fire?"

BILL TOMPKINS – WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM

Ridgefield’s new Engine 4, a 2020 Pierce Enforcer 1500-GPM pumper with a 750-gallon tank, supplies lines at the scene of a commercial building fire in neighboring Fairview.

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August, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

FACES OF NEW JERSEY’S EMERGENCY SERVICES To see your Faces in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com, email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com or mail them to 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore Street. New Windsor, NY 12553.

JOHN M. MALECKY

JOHN M. MALECKY

The crew of North Plainfield FD’s Rescue 503 stands by their ambulance. (L to R): EMTs Nick Tripodi and Jessica Romero.

Members of Plainfield Engine 4 stand by their E-ONE pumper. (L to R): FF Aaron Spivey, Lt. Alex Hatzinikolaou and FF Chris D’Amico.

RIVERTON FD

JOHN M. MALECKY

Riverton’s Sr. FF Quigg, Sr. FF Hopely and FF Richman stand fast at a recent structure fire call they were assigned to.

Members of Plainfield’s Engine 2 stand by their E-ONE pumper. (L to R): Lt. Charles Williams, and FF's Gabriel Ocasio and Omar Gray.

RON JEFFERS

RON JEFFERS

Jersey City Marine Coordinator Howard Simone, right, supervising work on the fire department's Marine 1 at the Edgewater Marina with Edgewater Chief of Department Tom Jacobson. Both officers are dedicated assets in the New Jersey Regional Fireboat Task Force.

After 36-years of service to the city of Bayonne, Captain Bob Bartos, left, of Tower Ladder 2, retired on June 27th. During his last tour, Captain Bartos responded to a fire in a Kennedy Boulevard apartment house on a hot and humid Sunday afternoon.

On the Bayonne O.E.M. Facebook page, Deputy Chief Bill Bartos said in a statement: "Even with just a few hours left in his final tour, Captain Bartos was first in the building today, leading his men to the seat of the fire and working diligently and professionally for the citizens of Bayonne."

August, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

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New Jersey Fire Equipment Co. Equipment, Hose, Supplies

FIREFIGHTER HEALTH & SAFETY For the past many months we have been focused on Covid 19. We must continue this vigilance remembering that prior to Covid we understood that Cancer Prevention was a primary concern for Firefighter Health and Safety.

For COVID - we continue to offer 3M N95 full approved facemasks as well as 3M reusable half facepieces and 3M P100 and 3M P95 filters. These products greatly enhance personal protection.

For CANCER - HYGENALL Firefighter products are FULL SPECTRUM cleaning and decontamination products using technology based on a licensed patent from NIOSH, doing everything regular soap and wipes do, but also removing a broad spectrum of heavy metals and oxides that Firefighters are exposed to, with 3rd party tests indicating a greater than 99% efficacy level for removal of lead, the hardest of the metals to remove. HYGENALL products are used by all branches of the U.S. Military.

Cleans off NIOSH identified chemicals found in smoke, including carcinogenic metal oxides, radioactive isotopes, carcinogens found in soot, plastics, dirt and germs.

Rich foam decontamination wash replaces regular soap because it cleans off soot, dirt and germs, Plus heavy metals. Does not contain EDTA, SLS, TSP, or Aloe Vera.

1851 Compliant PPE Cleaning. Extractor or Washing Machine. Also for cleaning floors and vehicles. Spray Bottles - Spray On/Wipe Off Surface Cleaner and Turnout Gear Cleaner.

119-131 Route 22 East • Green Brook, NJ 08812 295 B&C Bergen Turnpike • Ridgefield Park, NJ 07660 1522 Route 37 East • Toms River, NJ 08753

(Phone) 732-968-2121 • (Fax) 732-968-4724 • (Email) info@njfe.com • (Web) www.njfe.com

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August, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

80 Years of Fire & Rescue Apparatus in Fairfax County, Virginia: 1923-2003 ON THE BOOK SHELF

by John Malecky

80 Years of Fire & Rescue Apparatus in Fairfax County, Virginia: 1923-2003

By Peter West and Mike Sanders Available from: FSP Books & Videos 433 Main Street Hudson, MA 01749 1-800-522-8528 E-mail: support@fire-policeems.com www.fire-police-ems.com Price: $35.00 This is a soft cover, 8 ½ inch by 11 inch book, that has 176 pages. It is said that a picture is worth 1000 words. This book has over 500 black and white quality photos, most of which are apparatus but with a good number of ambulances included. There are also fire stations, both with and with-

Bob Long

out apparatus in front of them.

One thing I can say is that all of the vehicle photos are well positioned as to angle and sun exposure. The only color photos are those on the cover.

The two men who put this book together (with a vast number of apparatus photographers) proclaim their dedication by the very fact that they state that the information provided is as correct as can be determined, but they leave open the door that if for some reason there is an error, that they be notified of it.

There are 399-square-miles in the county, which has 37 stations including the City of Fairfax.

These stations are outlined in the book by number. A vast array of different vintages of apparatus awaits the reader. As an apparatus photographer for 47 years, I can appreciate the models and designs especially of the older trucks which were easier to identify than many of today. There is also an index of manufacturers at the end of the book with page numbers of the respective brands making it easy to look vehicles up.

This is a book that is worth the price!

BACKSTOP

THE FULLY AUTOMATIC REVERSE BRAKING SYSTEM MINIMIZE DAMAGE TO SURROUNDING OBSTACLES BACKSTOP applies the brakes instantly and automatically when a reversing vehicle contacts an obstacle.

COST SAVINGS Installing BACKSTOP minimizes damage costs to both the installed vehicle and surrounding obstacles.

May reduce insurance premiums.

Thank You to our Recent Customers!

Point Pleasant FD • Franklin Lakes FD

MINIMIZE VEHICLE DAMAGE BACKSTOP projects beyond the rear of the vehicle, minimizing collision damage to doors, lights, and rear steps.

MAXIMUM SAFETY BACKSTOP’s instant and automatic braking system is much faster than a driver’s reaction time.

The brakes remain applied until the driver manually releases the brakes by shifting the vehicle out of reverse gear.

IIHS: Rear Automated Emergency Braking Is Standout Safety Feature • Based on insurance claims for some vehicles, IIHS said rear AEB can reduce damage liability claims by 28 percent, while a backup camera or those beeping sensors reduce that by just 5 percent.

Don’t Back Up Without Backstop Backstop USA 18 Hollywood Blvd. S • Forked River, NJ 08731 Phone: 609-971-2756 • Toll Free: (Outside NJ) 888-745-2983 • Fax: 609-971-2793 Email: support@backstop-usa.com • Website: www.backstop-usa.com

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

August, 2021

PAGE 29

Check Out These Latest Sutphen Deliveries And More On Display At The NJ Firemen’s Convention Located In The South Lot! Point Pleasant Fire Department Custom Pumper • Monarch Extreme Duty Chassis • 73” Extended Cab with 10” Raise • 2000 GPM Waterous CMU 2 Stage Pump • 1000 Gallon Tank

Chatham Fire Department Wet Rescue • Monarch Extreme Duty Chassis • 73” Extended Cab with 10” Raise • Hale 300 GPM APS PTO Pump Side Kick Design • 300-Gallon Water Tank • 30-Gallon Foam Tank • FoamPro 2002, 5.0 GPM

Cheesequake Fire Department Custom Pumper • Monarch Extreme Duty chassis • 73” Extended Cab with 10” raise • Hale QMax 2000 GPM • 750 water tank

Blaze Emergency Equipment Company 715 Old Shore Rd. Forked River, NJ 08731

Phone: 609-893-3600 • info@blazeemergency.com

www.blazeemergency.com

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August, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

FACES OF NEW JERSEY’S EMERGENCY SERVICES To see your Faces in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com, email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com or mail them to 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore Street. New Windsor, NY 12553,

EJ RODE

Bogota Fire Department members line up on Larch Avenue for the annual Memorial Day inspection by the mayor and council.

JOHN M. MALECKY

Members of the Westfield Fire Department stand by their new Pierce pumper, Engine 5. (L to R): Battalion Chief S. Miller, Captain A. Tammaro, FF G. Peyton and Captain J. Danneviico.

RON JEFFERS

Members of Jersey City Squad Co. 4 with their 2003 Pierce Saber 2000-GPM apparatus that saw former duty with Engine 5. A new rescue-pumper is being planned for the squad.

JOHN M. MALECKY MERCERVILLE FIRE CO.

Mercerville Fire Company members, former Commissioner Scott Fairfax, Captain (Ret.) John E. Lenhardt and Past Deputy Chief Richard Klockner, following tradition, placed a Memorial Day wreath at (Nottingham Chief) Foley Park in Hamilton Square, NJ.

Members of Union Township Engine 3 stand by their new Pierce pumper. In uniform from left to right are FF Mike Sobka, Lt. Mike Caldis and FF Brian Shanahan. To the far left is Ed Donnelly, Sr., a plumbing contractor for the township and the father of Ed Donnelly, Jr., who is the president of the NJ State FMBA and a Union Township firefighter.

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August, 2021

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FACES OF NEW JERSEY’S EMERGENCY SERVICES To see your Faces in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com, email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com or mail them to 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore Street. New Windsor, NY 12553.

RON JEFFERS

Members of Paterson Engine 3, Tour 1, with their 2020 Ferrara 1500-GPM pumper that carries 100gallons of foam.

BOB SHERMAN JR.

Hamilton Township Fire Division (Mercer County) Engine Company 14 "C" Platoon Captain Kinte Holt with Engine 14, a 2016 Pierce 1000-GPM pumper.

CIRONE PHOTOS

Capt. Robert Sheard and Asst. Chief Kevin Maloney of Budd Lake Fire Company at a recent drill.

PROVIDED

BOB SHERMAN JR.

Truck Co. 2415 of Riverton responds as the RIT Company and Ladder Company for a multitude of towns in their area. Pictured here is Lt. Kooker and FF Kaplan performing a 360 at a reported house fire in Moorestown, NJ.

Hamilton Fire Division (Mercer County) Squad 12 Captain John Smisloff after a gas grill fire that expanded to a gazebo and garage.

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August, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

THEN & NOW If your Department has photos you would like to see in our “Then & Now” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

RON JEFFERS FRANK SAIA

Paterson Ladder 3 operated with this 2005 E-One 100-foot tractordrawn aerial ladder.

Driver Loses Control, Crashes Vehicle Into Haddon Twp. Building HADDON TWP., NJ - At approximately 2:11 P.M. on July 4th, the Westmont Fire Company was dispatched to 611 White Horse Pike for the report of a vehicle into a building. Upon arrival, FD reported a pickup truck vehicle with a landscaping trailer into the Tuxedo Junction storefront. It was determined that there was no entrapment and no injuries. The building construction official was called to the scene to determine the severity of damage to the building. The Westmont Fire Company remained on location until the tow company was able to remove the vehicle. Haddon Township PD is investigating the collision.

RON JEFFERS

Acquired by the North Hudson Regional Fire & Rescue in 2020, this E-One TDA currently operates as reserve Ladder 7.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

August, 2021

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2021 Paterson Fire Department Annual Memorial Service PATERSON, NJ - On June 6th, the Paterson Fire Department held their Annual Memorial Service honoring those that have served, those that have made the supreme sacrifice, and those that have been given valor awards for individual and unit acts of duty, honor and courage.

Many in atten- JUMP TO FILE# dance were firefight- 060921105 ers and chiefs and their families. Politians, including Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr., Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh, Council members, and many past members and officers of the PFD were also in attendance.

Three new names were added to the roll call of heroes that made the supreme sacrifice, bringing the total to 36 for the City of Paterson from the volunteer FD days to present.

A PFD Honor Guard and the Passaic County Police and Fire Pipe and Drum Band flanked the memorial outside Fire Headquarters as a wreath was laid and “Taps” was played. The ceremony concluded with “Amazing Grace” on the pipe and drums.

- BILL TOMPKINS

BILL TOMPKINS – WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

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DEPARTMENT PROFILE If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Departmnt Profile” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

DAMIEN DANIS

Fire at Primex Plastics in Garfield GARFIELD, NJ - On June 17th, the Garfield Vol. Fire Department was alerted at 4:27 P.M. for a structure fire at Primex Plastics, located at 65 River Drive. Police officers observed a large column of smoke coming from the building. On arrival, fire companies located a fire that was started from a cell phone site on the roof of a two-story portion of the building, which had extended to the main building. Several mutual aid units were requested to the scene due to the roof being on fire and the occupancy of the building. Once power was secured to the cell phone site, the fire was quickly extinguished. Mutual aid from Saddle Brook, Wallington, Passaic Clifton, Elmwood Park and Paramus assisted on the scene along with the Saddle Brook VAC Fire Rehab unit, while companies from Maywood, Lodi, Rochelle Park and Moonachie covered.

RON JEFFERS

Members of the South End Fire Company in Cedar Grove are now in their new building on Pompton Avenue near Ridge Road. It is the home of Engine 73 and Utility 76.

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August, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

DAMIEN DANIS

Second-Alarm at St. Lucy’s Church in Newark NEWARK, NJ - A fire burned the St. Lucy’s Church rectory in Newark at 118 7th Avenue around 2:30 P.M. on May 31st.

A second-alarm was struck as fire appeared to have made its way up into the building's cockloft, but firefighters were able to hold it in check. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

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 Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

FRANK ROBINSON

Monroe Township Fire Station 51 operates this 2019 E-One Cyclone Heavy Rescue.

FRANK ROBINSON

Montage Fire Department operates a 2017 E-One Typhoon 2000/1000.

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Some Rigs from Mercer and Monmouth Counties This month we feature five vehicles from Mercer County and two from Monmouth County. Of the Mercer County rigs, three are from Lawrence Township. Two are EONE rescue pumpers, one from Lawrence Road and the other from Slackwood. Also featured is Slackwood’s Seagrave Apollo rearmount platform quint, which I had been trying to photograph for a number of years. The problem was that the station does not always have an on duty crew. One day I found a man there, but he was just hanging out and did not drive. That particular day however he did tell me about the plans to buy two new pumpers which turned out to be the ones just mentioned. Pennington Boro received a new Spartan ER pumper with interesting compartment work. It is on a Gladiator Evolution chassis which is what they seem to like. The color is likened to a battleship gray which has been their color since I have been photographing apparatus some 47 years now. I just thought that the much older trucks had a slightly different shade, but I can’t say for certain. In any event, colors of apparatus today are so numerous that they are described many times with a number code rather than a shade description. The last vehicle from Mercer County is a Pierce squad from the White Horse Fire Company in Hamilton Township. When I photographed this pumper some time ago it was Engine 16, but now it is Squad 16. The township’s fire companies are now under one chief.

Two Monmouth County apparatus are a Spartan ER rescue pumper from Morganville in Marlboro Township which replaces two vehicles and has a 23.5-foot body including the pump panel. Second is a dark blue and white E-ONE Typhoon pumper from the Washington Engine Company in Matawan Boro.

In dealer news Firefighter One has delivered two Ferrara pumpers to Red Bank (Monmouth County).

They each have a heavy duty Cinder chassis, 186-inch wheelbase, Waterous CSU single-stage 12502000 GPM pump, 2 ½-inch front bumper discharge, (two) 1 ¾-inch crosslays, 750-gallon water tank, roll-up compartment doors and an FRC telescoping floodlight on the driver’s side. One is assigned as Engine 93 and the other Engine 96.

Also, two more Cinder pumpers have been delivered to Ocean County. One went to Bayville in Berkeley Township. It has a 188inch wheelbase, front bumper compartment, Waterous CSU 1500-GPM pump, 1000-gallon Please send any comments or news tidbits you might have about Apparatus of the Month to us at 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore Street.

New Windsor, NY 12553.

Or you can e-mail them to Apparatus@1stResponderNews.com.

APPARATUS OF THE MONTH A look at what’s new with apparatus around the state with John Malecky

JOHN M. MALECKY

Pennington Boro E-51, 2020 Spartan ER Gladiator Evolution 2000/1000/40A and 10 kw generator. It was sold by Campbell Supply Co., LLC.

JOHN M. MALECKY

Lawrence Township Rescue 21, (Slackwood), 2020 E-ONE Typhoon 2000/530 with 10 kw generator. It was sold by Absolute Fire Protection.

JOHN M. MALECKY

Hamilton Township Squad 16, 2018 Pierce Enforcer, 1500/750 with 2 kw portable generator and 9,000 pound portable winch with two receivers. It was sold by Fire & Safety Services.

JOHN M. MALECKY

Lawrence Township Tower 21,(Slackwood), 2015 Seagrave 2000/500/100-foot Apollo platform and 10 kw generator.

JOHN M. MALECKY

Marlboro Township, Morganville, E-28-3-75, 2020 Spartan ER Gladiator, 1500/780/20A/30B, air cascade and 10 kw generator. It was sold by Campbell Supply Co., LLC.

JOHN M. MALECKY JOHN M. MALECKY

Lawrence Township Rescue 22 (Lawrence Road), 2020 E-ONE Typhoon 2000/530 with 10 kw generator. It was sold by Absolute Fire Protection.

water tank and roll-up compartment doors. The other is at Barnegat Light and has a 188-inch wheelbase, Waterous CSU, 1500-GPM pump, (two) 1 ¾-inch and (one) 2 ½-inch crosslays, five-inch front intake, 1 ½-inch front bumper discharge, 750-gallon water tank and roll-up

compartment doors.

Fire & Safety Services reports the following Pierce deliveries: to East Franklin in Franklin Township (Somerset County) an Enforcer pumper; to Montclair (Essex County) an Arrow XT 105-foot rearmount; to Gloucester Township

Matawan Boro, E-29-78, 2020 E-ONE Typhoon, 1500/1030 with 8 kw generator (Washington Engine). It was sold by Absolute Fire Protection.

(Camden County) District 4 to be used by District 2 (Chews Landing) an Enforcer pumper and to the Point Pleasant Beach (the red company) (Ocean County) a Velocity pumper and to Absecon (Atlantic County), a stock Ascendant 110-foot rearmount platform on an Enforcer PUC

chassis. It has a single axle, 1500GPM pump, 500-gallon water tank and Husky single agent foam system.

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 38

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Apparatus of the Month Continued from Page 37 VCI Emergency Vehicle Specialists reports the following ambulance deliveries: to the Middletown Township FA & RS, an AEV 164 on a Ford E-450 chassis and to the Englishtown-Manalapan FAS, a Horton 457 on a Ford F-450 chassis (both Monmouth County). To the Toms River Police EMS IAFF Local 4846, a Horton 623 gas remount on a Ford F-450 chassis and to the tri-Boro FAS in Seaside Park a Horton 553 on a Ford E-450 chassis (both Ocean County). The City of Cape May FD (Cape May County) received a Horton 553 on a Ford E-450 chassis.

New Jersey Emergency Vehicles has made the following P.L. Custom ambulance deliveries: Two Type 1 Classics on Ford F-550 chassis. One to the Rosenhayne Fire Rescue in

Deerfield Township (Cumberland County), and the other to the Union Township FD (Union County). Capital Health received three Malley Type II ambulances, the Rahway FD (Union County) received a Rescue 1 light duty rescue on a Ford F-550 chassis and the Hillsborough Board of Fire Commissioners received a Utilimaster step van fire investigation unit. P.L. Custom ambulance orders include a Medallion on a Ford E-450 chassis to the Parsippany Volunteer First Aid (Morris County), a Medallion on a Ford E-450 chassis and a Classic on a Ford F-550 4x4, both for the Clifton FD (Passaic County), and a Medallion for the Jersey Shore Hatzalah. New Jersey Mobile Health in Mahwah ordered a Type II Malley Transit, Fair Lawn

VAC ordered an NJEV conversion of a mobile command vehicle and a mobile support vehicle both on Ford Transits (both Bergen County), and in Hillsborough (Somerset County), an NJEV conversion for Flagtown and a Rescue 1 light duty rescue on a Ford F-650 chassis also for Flagtown.

Emergency Equipment Sales & Service has delivered to the Delanco Emergency Squad (Burlington County) an Excellance Type III remount of a 2006 Horton module after completely being removed, rebuilt and rewired and placed on a Ford E-450 chassis.

We have received a report that Mahwah Fire Co. 3 (Bergen County) received a new Seagrave pumper.

No other details.

ANTIQUE APPARATUS

PROVIDED

If you have photos for Antique Apparatus please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

FRANK ROBINSON

The Chester Fire Department still owns their 1963 Mack B 750/500.

JOHN M. MALECKY

In Keansburg, the New Point Comfort Fire Company maintains this 1947 Mack L85 pumper. It has a 750-GPM pump and a 200-gallon water tank.

Light Up Your Way to Safety This article was put together to bring awareness to why you should consider illuminating your portable ground ladders at a fire scene.

Many years ago, Ret. FF George Borek, Rescue 1 FDJC, saw a critical need to light up his second means of egress when portable ground ladders were raised to the roof or to windows below. George was an avid scuba diver and many of his training dives were done at night to help sharpen his skills in zero visibility as he dropped below the surface of the water. As he ascended with his dive team, they would drop a safety line into the water with waterproof divers strobe lights to help light their way and back to the surface.

FF Borek remarked how affective that beacon was underwater and decided to bring the concept to the surface and on to the fire ground. George took a carabiner and a diver’s strobe light and married them together. As he ascended to the roof via a portable ground ladder and once he transferred over onto the roof he would clip his strobe light on to a rung and activate the beacon, marking his means of egress.

FF Borek said he was glad that he had that light in his pocket on some smoky and nighttime fires in which the divers strobe light was the beacon of light back to safety. I have purchased this light as shown in the pictures online, and a carabiner from a local hardware store. NFPA 1931 requires that ladder rungs be 1 ¼ in thickness and may taper down to 1 1/8 at the ends.

(Side note): I purchased this larger carabiner for demonstration

JUMP TO FILE #071521102

purposes, as it is easily deployed with a gloved hand and can be easily carried in your turnout coat pocket.

Training: Your department may want to look at building this into an SOP/SOG to be used on a regular basis at fire scenes. If your interior crews must make a hasty retreat to the nearest window, it might be a good idea to have one of these strobe lights attached to the exterior ground ladder to let them know there is a ladder outside that window.

Special thanks to Maywood Fire Department, along with Truck 17 for providing their equipment and manpower to help move this article forward into publication.

Acknowledgements: Chief Reiner, DC DeYoung, Captain Bahto, Lt. Scozzafava, FF Wescott, Keleshian, Febre, Fajvan and Golabek for their brotherhood.

Closing message: Safety should be paramount while operating on the fire ground and an allout effort must be made to make sure everyone gets home after a fire call or your tour of duty. This concept of Lighting Up Your Way to Safety should be just another tool for your toolbox and it may keep you out of a world of hurt.

Please review photos provided by this writer and good luck.

Yours in the Fire Service, - Ret FF George Borek & Ret Chief Charlie Lind, Jr. Class of 1982 Jersey City FD

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

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