1st Responder News NJ January Edition

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DECEMBER, 2014 JANUARY, 2021

FIVE-ALARM FATAL INFERNO CLAIMS ONE LIFE IN PATERSON

CHRIS TOMPKINS - WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM

Paterson, NJ - Paterson firefighters battled a five-alarm blaze that destroyed two homes, severely damaged three others, and claimed the life of one resident early on the morning of Sunday, November 8th. Paterson dispatch began receiving multiple calls for a house fire on Summer Street shortly after 1:30 A.M.

- See full story on page 10

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January, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

Five-Alarm Fatal Inferno Claims One Life in Paterson Paterson, NJ - Paterson firefighters battled a five-alarm blaze that destroyed two homes, severely damaged three others, and claimed the life of one resident early on the morning of Sunday, November 8th.

Paterson dispatch began receiv- JUMP TO FILE# ing multiple calls 110920103 for a house fire on Summer Street shortly after 1:30 A.M. Police arrived on scene within minutes and advised that there was heavy fire showing from a two-and-a-half story home with possible entrapment.

Engine 1 and Tower 1 arrived on scene and began an attempt on an interior attack to locate the victim. The main fire building, which was heavily involved in fire, began to spread to the 'Delta' exposure, which became well involved in minutes.

Battalion 1 arrived on scene and transmitted a second-alarm, reporting that he had (two) twoand-a-half story frames with severe exposure problems, and companies were to go into a defensive operation. Minutes later, a third-alarm was transmitted as homes at 489 and 491 Summer Street were fully involved with extension to the 'Bravo' and 'Delta' 1 exposures.

Heavy fire and embers lit up the street as companies set up two ladder pipes, a deck gun and multiple exterior lines. Reports came in that a third exposure in the rear was on fire and a fourth-alarm was transmitted.

All Paterson and mutual aid companies fought the fire for about two hours. A fifth-alarm would be transmitted as both fully involved structures collapsed.

Firefighters went to an interior attack on the remaining exposures and knocked down any remaining fire.

Quick work kept the fire from spreading down the block. Two firefighters suffered burn injuries and were later released from the hospital. One victim and a dog perished in the blaze.

Mutual aid from Clifton, Passaic, Prospect Park, Haledon, Hawthorne, Totowa, Ringwood, West Paterson and Fair Lawn assisted Paterson units on scene.

The cause of the fire is unknown at this time and under investigation.

CHRIS TOMPKINS WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM

- CHRIS TOMPKINS

CHRIS TOMPKINS WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

January, 2021

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HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM ALL OF US AT MID-ATLANTIC RESCUE!

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January, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

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.

2021…Let’s start it off on the right foot!

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

RON JEFFERS

Fire units from several South Bergen departments operated at a chimney fire, with extension to the Jocelyn Avenue dwelling, in Wood-Ridge on an unusually warm November 10th.

There is absolutely no reason to go into what 2020 was like, we were all there. Instead, let’s look into 2021 with some optimism, hope and culinary adventure. January usually brings on plenty of resolutions and self promises, most often revolving around health and wellness. This is absolutely a good thing, and something I myself tend to partake in. But where I think we fall flat on those commitments is our diet. This is by no means a reference to “diets” like South Beach, Paleo, Keto or any of the other numerous ones out there. I am referring simply to what we are eating and how it will affect the resolutions and promises we made to

ourselves. Healthy food is connected to all sorts of negative connotations, whether it be “expensive” or “lacking in flavor”.

Many of these are not true, and sometimes quite the opposite.

Fresh produce for instance is almost always cheaper than the canned variety. And while flavor is highly subjective, many healthy recipes contain tons of flavor, usually in the form of good fats, fresh herbs and spices.

It would be easy to say just throw some chicken on the grill or toss up a kale salad. These are obviously healthy for you and by all means if that’s what you enjoy, go for it. But sometimes I think the key to sustaining healthier eating habits lie in the more adventurous recipes. The ones that take what we would normally consider unhealthy, but delicious all the same, and flip it upside down using more nutritious ingredients and different techniques. When we make these recipes, it breaks up the monotony

of the “grilled chicken, sweet potato and broccoli” meals. These new and unexpected recipes keep us and our palates excited for more, hence the sustainable aspect of it all.

I challenge you in 2021 to try and think outside of the box when it comes to your cooking. Think of foods that you may not make as often as you would like or should.

Think…cauliflower. Yes, cauliflower gets a bad rap sometimes.

But it is the perfect blank canvas for flavors and textures. And it just so happens to make a great alternative to mashed potatoes. When combined with sweet roasted garlic and some plain Greek yogurt, the cauliflower turns into a creamy dish that will make you forget about potatoes. This recipe has tons of flavor, nutrients and will certainly turn you into a believer that healthy food can be delicious.

Here’s to a Happy and Healthy New Year!

ROASTED GARLIC CAULIFLOWER MASH Serves 4

Ingredients:

CHRIS TOMPKINS WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM

Paterson Battalion Chief Lisco at a mutual aid 3rd alarm in Passaic on 11-9-20.

1 Medium Head Cauliflower 1 Head Garlic 1 Sprig Rosemary ½ Cup Plain Greek Yogurt ½ Cup EVOO Salt, to taste Procedure:

-Preheat oven to 375° F

-Cut the top off the whole head of garlic, place in foil. Drizzle with EVOO and wrap tight. Roast in the oven for 45 minutes or until soft and brown.

-While the garlic roasts, cut the cauliflower into small pieces and place in a pot with a steamer basket. Pick and finely chop the rosemary, add to the cauliflower. Steam cauliflower for 20 minutes or until tender.

-Put the cauliflower in a food processor with

AJ FUSCO

yogurt. Squeeze out the roasted garlic into the cauliflower. Add a pinch of salt and buzz until combined. With

motor running add EVOO until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

January, 2021

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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@1stResponderNews.com.

CHUCK LOWE

Rochester, Massachusetts continues to operate with this 1996 E-One Hush 1500/200/95' Tower. It previously served as Avenel Truck 5.

RON JEFFERS

Hillsborough Rescue 37's 2009 Pierce Velocity, that saw original duty with the local rescue squad, is now run by the fire district, as of 2018.

JOHN M. MALECKY

In Monmouth County, the Hope Fire Company in Allentown Borough has this 1993 KME Renegade pumper as E-8275, which formerly saw service with Wall Township and Roosevelt. It has a 1500-GPM pump, 500-gallon water tank and a 7.5 kw generator.

DAMIEN DANIS

Three-Alarm Fire Destroys Unoccupied Home in Passaic Passaic, NJ - A pre-dawn fire destroyed an unoccupied multifamily home in Passaic on the morning of November 9th shortly before 4:00 A.M. Companies were dispatched to JUMP TO FILE# 69 Jackson Street 110920117 on a reported fire, and as first due companies arrived, heavy fire was showing from the dwelling and extending to an exposure. A second-alarm was struck by Acting Battalion Chief Hayowyk, bringing the rest of the city units to the scene.

Heavy fire extended to the upper floors and eventually vented through the roof. The main fire building had fire on all floors and crews went to a defensive attack while the extension to exposure 'D' was held in check.

Numerous outside lines and a ladder pipe went into operation. The roof of the fire building collapsed while master streams worked.

The blaze was knocked down at 4:55 A.M., and declared under control at 6:10 A.M. A firefighter required treatment for a minor injury. No other injuries were reported.

Mutual aid assisting on scene included Paterson, Clifton, East Rutherford, Wallington, Rutherford and Carlstadt. Fourth-alarm companies covered at East and West side firehouses during the incident. The cause of the fire wasn't immediately determined.

- DAMIEN DANIS

DAMIEN DANIS

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

January, 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.

PROVIDED

The Broken Promises and Deceptions of Dietary Supplements Broken Promises and Exaggerated Claims Often Surround Supplement Market

RON JEFFERS

Cliffside Park Captain Tamer Abdallah passes up a pike pole to his brother, Lieutenant Thaier Abdallah, while operating at a mutual aid dwelling fire in Ridgefield, November 16th.

According to Consumer Reports, dietary supplement sales have increased by 81 percent in the last decade. Over 90,000 supplement products are on the market, creating a $40 billion industry. Forty-five percent of doctors suggest taking at least one supplement, and seven percent actually sell them in their offices.

But what is actually in these products? And what aren’t manufacturers telling the American public?

Twenty-three thousand emergency room visits a year hint at a very complicated understanding of the effects of supplements, and of the deception and misinformation surrounding the supplement industry.

intended use before selling it, or that it works as advertised, or even that it is labeled correctly. Only after serious damage is done can the FDA remove a dietary supplement from the market.

Here are just some of the ways dietary supplements can be dangerous. They can:

Of the tens of thousands of dietary supplements sold in the United States, not one of them is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) before being put on the market. In other words, manufacturers aren’t required to prove that a dietary supplement is safe for its

What Can You Do to Protect Yourself?

Buyer Beware

RON JEFFERS

Retired member of Carlstadt Engine Co. 1, Dennis Kronyak, Sr., left, is also an avid fire scene photographer in the South Bergen area. He is with his son, Carlstadt Assistant Chief Dennis Kronyak, Jr., at a recent mutual aid fire in Wood-Ridge.

JUMP TO FILE #120220105

-Contain hidden prescription drugs -Contain heavy metals, microbes or other contaminants -Negatively react with a person’s existing medications -Prove ineffective at best, causing adverse side effects at worst -Be intentionally mislabeled, with claims like “natural ingredients” that have no basis in fact

The good news is that being an informed consumer is the most effective way to protect yourself from a dangerous health product. The risks of dangerous side effects in-

crease if you take other medications, have chronic health problems, or are pregnant or nursing. There are many steps to take before deciding on supplement use:

-Speak with your doctor before taking any type of supplement.

-Look for clinical studies that back up any claims that a supplement is effective and safe. Testimonials from customers are NOT scientific proof.

-Be aware of trends. Just because a product (e.g., CBD oil) is new and popular doesn’t mean it is effective.

-Be skeptical of exaggerated claims like “miracle cure” or “breakthrough product.”

-Don’t be swayed by limitedtime offers and guarantees. These pitches are intended to get you to buy before you can evaluate a product’s claims.

-Don’t assume “natural” means safe. Many ingredients that may be found naturally can still be dangerous.

- BAGOLIE FRIEDMAN INJURY LAWYERS

See more stories at 1rbn.com

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January, 2021

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January, 2021

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The Patriots, God & Country Tour Arrives in New Jersey Rochelle Park, NJ - The Patriots, God & Country Tour recently came through New Jersey.

The tour had their patriotic vehicles parked in the Bergen County Harley Davidson for area residents to come and view them.

They were quite a sight to behold.

At the time that The Flash was there, there were two motorcycle groups there as well, showing their pride for their country.

The tour was led by seven fire trucks and support vehicles, symbols of some of our nation’s bravest men and women. Each vehicle was wrapped in a theme that reminds us of the gifts and freedoms God has bestowed upon our nation. Each vehicle was driven by a retired firefighter, veteran or police officer who is volunteering

JUMP TO FILE #112520100 their time.

The themes include our flag as a symbol of our unity and blessings, our nation’s powerful military, our courageous and dependable law-enforcement, the past heroes of our nation, the right to protect ourselves via the second amendment, and a truck that honors God. The tour began on September 29th and came to an end on November 3rd. The plan was to hold rallies in 28 cities and stop in or pass through 22 states.

- TODD HOLLRITT

TODD HOLLRITT

TODD HOLLRITT

TODD HOLLRITT

TODD HOLLRITT

TODD HOLLRITT

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

January, 2021

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

JUSTIN MATTES

Cape May County's 1950 Mack 500-GPM pumper on display at the annual car show held at Secluded Acres Farm.

RON JEFFERS

Flames raced up the rear wall and consumed the top floor of this Walnut Street dwelling, in Ridgefield, on November 16th, causing a mutual aid 2nd alarm.

After Storm Damage, Ridgefield Battles Dwelling Fire

FRANK ROBINSON

Whitman Square Fire Company still owns their 1981 American LaFrance 1500/500/50' Telesqurt.

MIKE NOWACKI

Colts Neck Fire Company No.1 maintains this excellent looking 1934 Ahrens Fox VLB booster pumper. This booster pumper was 1-of-3 built in 1934 that was ordered by the Hoboken Fire Department. It now belongs to Colts Neck Fire Company No.1, where they use it for parades and fire musters.

Ridgefield, NJ - After an evening of rain and very high winds that caused numerous trees, branches and power lines to fall on November 15th, volunteer firefighters were back at work again when fire raced through a dwelling on the following afternoon.

Shortly after noon on November 16th, firefighters were dispatched to a reported dwelling fire on Walnut Street. Fire was racing through the two-story home when they arrived.

On the initial alarm, Cliffside Park Ladder 1 was dispatched as the FAST team. Cliffside Park Chief Greg Yfantis radioed to his truck that they would be going to work upon arrival.

The fire was well advanced on

JUMP TO FILE #111820104 arrival, according to Ridgefield Chief of Department Dave Brierty.

From preliminary observations by firefighters, the fire may have started by a generator located at the rear of the home. There was a “V” pattern from the generator.

Flames both entered the home and extended up the rear wall and into the cockloft, involving the roof.

As Ladder 1 members operated on the roof, ex-chief James Giunchini radioed command that the roof was getting “spongy”, and they were getting off same. Chief Brierty ordered members to evacuate the building and struck a second-alarm. This alarm included

fire companies from Palisades Park, Leonia, Fairview and Fort Lee to the scene.

Flames quickly took control of the roof, sending a column of black smoke visible for several miles. Exterior lines were used, plus ladder pipe operations from Cliffside Park and Fort Lee Ladder. 1.

Flames were knocked down with extensive overhaul to be accomplished. The multiple-alarm fire was declared under control by Chief Brierty shortly before 2:00 P.M. Police reported that all occupants were accounted for, and there were no reported injuries.

- RON JEFFERS

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January, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

TODD HOLLRITT

Car Versus Tree with Injuries in West Paterson

Woodland Park, NJ - West Paterson Fire Engine 3 and Rescue 1 along with paramedics responded at about 7:30 P.M. on Tuesday, November 24th, to a report of a crash with injuries on Jackson Avenue. On arrival police officers discovered a vehicle off the road with severe front end damage after striking and passing through a tree. The tree was completely severed at the base, and the car had an air bag deployment from the collision.

The driver was tended to by EMS and transported to Saint Josephs Hospital in Paterson with injuries. The fire department secured the vehicle for towing from the scene.

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

Berkeley Heights Truck 1's 1995 Pierce Lance 1500-GPM/100-foot platform, left, has been replaced with a 2020 Pierce Velocity 100foot Ascendant model platform.

FRANK ROBINSON

Deptford Fire Department Tacoma Station's 1999 American LaFrance/93' LTI will be replaced by a 2020 E-One 95' Tower Ladder.

RON JEFFERS

Secaucus ex-Chief George Schoenrock, right, when he received his 55-years of service award from the South Bergen Fire Chief's Association.

Chief George Schoenrock Was An Asset to the Fire Service George Schoenrock served Secaucus as a volunteer firefighter and as a chief for 58-years, as well as being involved in many community activities. He was well known around the state in his capacity as a Safety Coordinator for PSE&G, training firefighters on handling compromised electrical power line incidents.

Chief Shoenrock passed away on October 31st at the age of 84, which saddens the Secaucus and fire service communities. He was a member of Rescue Co. 1 and Engine Co. 2 on Paterson Plank Road.

Schoenrock worked for PSE&G for 44-years, retiring in 1999. He also served Secaucus as the local fire department liaison to the Office of Emergency Management. Many firefighters knew him through his position as Chief Instructor and Director of the North Jersey Volunteer Firemen's Association Training Center in Wayne.

In 1955, he joined PSE&G laying cables underground. He became its first safety officer after nearly getting killed on the job.

“He would go down the manhole and he got electrocuted when he was helping somebody else,” said his wife, Connie. “He took off his glove and his wrist hit the wire.

He was knocked unconscious and they had to get a rope and pull him out of there. He was in the hospital a day or two. And that's why they probably made him a safety conductor; because he knew first hand what not to do.”

JUMP TO FILE #112420108 In Secaucus, he started a fire prevention program in schools, teaching students the “Stop, Drop and Roll" drive. He got the children involved in activities such as drawing fire prevention posters, judging them and presenting winners with certificates and prizes. In addition, he conducted fire prevention lectures to local businesses.

Chief Shoenrock served in so many fire related organizations, some as a life member, that they are too numerous to mention.

Some highlights include being a member of the International Association of Fire Chiefs, NJ/NY Volunteer Firemen's Association, South Bergen Chief's Association, Hudson County Fire Chief's Association and the Hudson County Fire Prevention Association. In addition, he was an executive board member of the North Jersey Volunteer Firemen's Association.

Chief Schoenrock was awarded “Citizen of the Year” for 2011-12 by the local chapter of UNICO National, the service organization of Italian Americans. In 1997 he received the PSE&G Award of Valor for rushing into a burning building across the street from his office and putting out the fire. In 1977, brewer Schlitz presented him with the NJ State Firefighter of the Year Award.

He served in the chief position twice, and he is the only member

of the S.F.D. to hold five different chief ranks. He served as second and first assistant chief before becoming the chief of department. In later years, the S.F.D. changed the rank designations and Schoerock served as battalion and deputy chief, before becoming the chief, again.

“He was always caring, but could be very funny making us laugh,” said Richard Dean of the North Jersey VFA and Butler Fire Department.

“He was a firefighter till the end,” said Mayor Mike Gonnelli.

“Chief Schoenrock went to every firefighting meeting. He was at every council meeting. He did not miss one.”

Fire Chief Carl Leppin said George had been a life-long mentor.

Deputy Chief Joe Schoendorf said George's zest for the job belied his age.

“He was 84, but he was regularly coming to the firehouse, putting on gear, jumping on the fire rigs and responding to calls with all of us,” said Schoendorf.

Chief Schoenrock was also described...“as a big rock to the fire service for well over 55-years, and to the North Jersey Volunteer Firemen's Association,” by NJVFA President Victor J. France.

He loved being a firefighter, a teacher, and he was always a gentleman.

- RON JEFFERS

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

January, 2021

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ADVERTISER INDEX Company

Page

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13

Agin Signs

19

Air Purifiers

21

Associated Auto

30

Backstop USA

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Bagolie Friedman Injury Lawyers

32

Blaze Emergency Equipment

29

Campbell Supply

1,5

Defender Emergency

17

Fire Flow Services

33

Fire & Safety Services

DAMIEN DANIS

CHRIS TOMPKINS WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM

1,40

First Battalion Fire Equipment

3,7

Mid Atlantic Fire & Air

7

Mid Atlantic Rescue Systems NJ Emergency Vehicles

11 9,23,35

NJ Fire Equipment

7,27

Safe-T

7,39

State Line Fire & Safety

7

Task Force Tips

7

T-Mugs

34

The Fire Store

15

Valtek

20,30

VCI

31

VFIS

37

CORPORATE INFORMATION

1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New Jersey edition - Vol. 28 No. 1 - 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.

A division of:

845-534-7500 • (fax) 845-534-0055 Info@belsito.net

DAMIEN DANIS

Two-Alarm Fire Damages Unoccupied Home in Hasbrouck Heights

Hasbrouck Heights, NJ - A two-alarm blaze broke out on the second floor of an unoccupied, two-and-a-half story home in Hasbrouck Heights on the evening of November 16th.

Shortly after 7:00 P.M., companies were dispatched to 312 Henry Street for reports of smoke coming from a home. Police officers arrived and confirmed a working fire. Visible fire venting out of second floor windows greeted first due units.

A second-alarm was struck, bringing mutual aid companies from Little Ferry, Wood-Ridge, Moonachie, South Hackensack and Wallington to the scene. Crews had the fire knocked down in under an hour. A third-alarm brought companies to cover the borough at fire headquarters. One injury occurred when a firefighter fell through the second floor and suffered minor injuries. Additional mutual aid covering came from Carlstadt, Lodi, Garfield and others. The cause of the fire wasn't immediately determined.

CHRIS TOMPKINS WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM

Well Involved Vacant Structure in Paterson

Paterson, NJ - Heavy black smoke billowed over the City of Paterson as a second-alarm fire consumed a large vacant house, with damage to a similar occupied structure, early Tuesday morning, November 17th. Just before 9:00 A.M., multiple calls came in to Paterson dispatch reporting a fire at 13 Pearl Street. While en-route, Battalion 2 reported heavy smoke in the area and transmitted a working fire. On arrival, a second-alarm was transmitted for a well involved threestory vacant frame with wires down in front of the house and an exposure problem on the 'Delta' side. Engine 1 arrived on scene and went into service with a deck gun and stretched multiple exterior hand lines, to the fire building and also to protect the exposure. At the height of the fire, two ladder pipes, one deck gun, and multiple handlines were used to knock down the fire in under 30 minutes. No injuries were reported. The fire, which is the scene of a previous fire, remains under investigation.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

January, 2021

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1 Ardmore Street • New Windsor, NY 12553

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EXECUTIVE STAFF PUBLISHER

Joseph P. Belsito (Joe@Belsito.com) ••• GENERAL MANAGER

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EDITORIAL STAFF COLUMNISTS •••

Rick Billings (Cartoon) AJ Fusco (Food Blog) Bob Long (Cartoon) John Malecky (Apparatus, Video, Bookshelf) Didymus McHugh (Chaplain’s Corner) Robert “Pip” Piparo (Health & Fitness) Fernando Villicana (Chaplain’s Corner)

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In memory of those who gave all

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

1st Responder Newspaper honors and remembers emergency responders lost in the line of duty

Texas: Frazier Lee Holbert, 57 Rank: Career Incident Date: September 9, 2020 Death Date: September 13, 2020 Fire Department: Carrollton Fire Rescue Initial Summary: On September 9, 2020, at approximately 3:00 am, Fire Captain Frazier Holbert went to bed at the fire station after returning from an emergency call. Soon thereafter, he suffered a stroke. Fellow firefighters later found Holbert unresponsive and transported him to a local hospital. He was subsequently transported to another hospital where he passed away on September 13, 2020.

California: Charles Morton, 39 Rank: Wildland Part-Time Incident Date: September 17, 2020 Death Date: September 17, 2020 Fire Department: San Bernardino National Forest, Big Bear Hotshots Initial Summary: Firefighter Charles Morton, Squad Boss on the Big Bear Interagency Hotshot Crew, died during interagency fire suppression activities on the El Dorado Fire in the San Bernardino National Forest in California on September 17, 2020. The Big Bear Hotshots are local to the San Bernardino National Forest.

West Virginia: Richard "Rick" Todd, 58 Rank: Chief Incident Date: September 1, 2020 Death Date: September 23, 2020 Fire Department: Salem Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: While on duty, Fire Chief Richard “Rick” Todd responded to an EMS call where an individual had a known case of COVID-19. Fire Chief Todd subsequently contracted the virus and passed away on Wednesday, September 23, 2020.

Illinois: Dylan Cunningham, 29 Rank: Firefighter/Paramedic Incident Date: September 30, 2020 Death Date: September 30, 2020 Fire Department: South Holland Fire Department Initial Summary: On Wednesday, September 30,

2020, Firefighter/Paramedic Dylan Cunningham was participating in a dive training exercise at the Haigh Quarry in Kankakee, IL, when he was found by fellow firefighters in distress. He was immediately taken to the Amita St. Mary’s Hospital in Kankakee and later transported to the Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, IL where he passed away a short time later. The cause of his death has not yet been determined and the incident is under investigation.

California: Jason Cortez, 42 Rank: Firefighter/Paramedic Incident Date: October 7, 2020 Death Date: October 7, 2020 Fire Department: San Francisco Fire Department Initial Summary: On Wednesday, October 7, 2020, Firefighter/Paramedic Jason Cortez was participating in a drill at the Mission District Training Facility when he was injured. Paramedics started immediate care and transported him to the San Francisco General Hospital Trauma Center where he succumbed to his injuries just before 1100hrs. An investigation into this accident is underway and the cause of his death has not yet been determined.

Pennsylvania: Edward "Gary" Minnick, 65 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: October 1, 2020 Death Date: October 1, 2020 Fire Department: Colmar Volunteer Fire Company Initial Summary: On Thursday, October 1, 2020, Firefighter Edward “Gary” Minnick was responding to an oil leak at a gas station. While in the utility truck at the fire department, he suffered a medical emergency and paramedics immediately performed life saving measures. All resuscitation efforts were unsuccessful and he passed away from an apparent heart attack.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

January, 2021

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1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

Uniforms, Badges and Scale Models UPS & DOWNS Notes from Ron Jeffers

On a side street east of Palisade Avenue in Union City sits a store filled with first responder uniforms and accessories. In a way, you could call it out-of-sight, out-ofmind, if you didn't know it was there.

George Fierro, and G & F Enterprise, Inc., has been in business for 22-years, with the store at 201-18th Street. The store is filled with uniforms, patches, badges, hats, and other items needed for on duty police, firefighters, EMS personnel, security personnel and DPW workers. What else is there? Many 1/24th scale models of first responder vehicles representing local police, fire and EMS agencies.

Fierro has a personal hobby of collecting such models and customizing some into local department vehicles. Some model companies make police car and SUV units that are either all white or black and white, with no decals.

This is done for the serious modelers to place their own logos on them to make them more personal.

Fierro uses models from companies like Motor Max, Die Hard and First Classic. Most are 1/24th scale.

Sometimes he can use the color of the original model, or he has to repaint them to match the department vehicles.

In order to get things right, he takes many close up photos of the various emergency vehicles. The graphics are very important and he is meticulous about his work. He then lines up the graphics to a “paper mold,” to fit the model and scale, and then the color. His graphics are then converted to Scotch Guard-the same as used on the real vehicles.

Fierro began putting his work on display at his store. They became eye catchers. He started selling some and getting request to assemble models from various local departments. An unexpected addition to the uniform business.

As a matter of fact, after this author was retired for about 20-years from the UCPD, I finally got a scale model of a Union City radio car (still call them that), custom made

by Fierro.

Also on display in the store are pieces of his personal collection including the Hess toy trucks and NJ PBA official toys.

G & F Enterprise has been in business for 22-years, but that's not all that George Fierro does. He also serves his city as a dedicated EMT. He joined Union City EMS in 1994 and worked his way up the ranks to Chief of EMS in 2014.

Chief Fierro is in charge of some 18 full time members and 20 part time employees, which includes tour chiefs. The unit answers and average of 10,000 calls a year in a city of some 80,000 jammed into 1.3 square-miles.

DOWNS: A log cabin style home on Coles Ave., Mountainside, was involved in flames, in October. Officials said the home was being razed to make way for a new dwelling.

UPS: Wallington ex-fire chiefs Richard Sedor and James Furtak have completed 45-years of service to the community and the fire department. Both are members of Truck Co. 1.

DOWNS: Members of the NJ Fire Museum reported that on the morning of Nov. 2nd their black and silver colored enclosed trailer was stolen from the museum's yard in Allentown. The trailer had donated firematic items inside it. The trailer is 24-feet in length with NJ plate TVU63Z. UPS: On Nov. 11th the Ridgefield F.D. received a large shipment of toys from First Responders Children's Foundation as part of their Toy Express program for Christmas. The toys were distributed to children of first responders in the immediate area through the holiday season.

DOWNS: A Paterson woman ran back into her burning home to save her dog and did not make it out as a 5-alarm fire raced through a row of homes on Summer St., Nov. 8th.

Two city firefighters were treated for burn injuries at St. Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston. A total of 47 residents were displaced.

UPS: The Rutgers School of Public Health received a $1.5 million FEMA grant to support cancer research for volunteer firefighters, according to the grant's principal investigator, Judith Graber.

DOWNS: A 73-year-old woman died after firefighters removed her from a burning apartment on Juliustown Rd., in the Browns Mills section of Pemberton Twp, Nov. 4th, officials said. She was pronounced dead at an area hospital. The Burlington County fire marshal preliminary ruled the fire as accidental.

Investigators believe the victim was smoking near oxygen tanks in the residence.

UPS: Blairstown volunteer firefighter and EMT Bob Halberstadt, 80, has served his community for decades. He was recently honored

by Rachael Ray, who honored him on her television show as part of her “Thanks for Giving” series leading up to the Thanksgiving holiday.

Halberstadt retired from his job as a driver for the New York Daily News eight years ago and, despite being a member of the Bliarstown volunteer ambulance corps for 26years, he felt the need for additional service to his community. Last year, he completed training to become a volunteer firefighter with Hose Co.

RON JEFFERS

Union City EMS Chief and president of G & F Enterprise, Inc., George Fierro, with some of his custom made first responder vehicles made for local departments.

1. Halberstadt has a desire to remain active along with his belief in the adage that age is just a number.

DOWNS: A man accused of setting an Abinger Pl. dwelling on fire, in Newark on Nov. 11th, had to be rescued from the burning building after he ran to its roof, officials said.

Stephen Jones, 24, was charged with arson following his rescue, according to Public Safety Director Anthony Ambrose. Firefighters rescued the man and he was immediately arrested. Jones suffered burns to his hands and a firefighter sustained neck burns. Both were treated at University Hospital.

UPS: The Ridgefield F.D. has received a donation of a 53-foot trailer from Toufayan Bakeries. It will be converted into a large mask confidence course training maze, according to Fire Chief Dave Brierty.

DOWNS: A Hasbrouck Heights firefighter fell through the secondfloor of a burning Henry St. dwelling, Nov. 16th, but escaped serious injury, officials said. Firefighter Robert Knobloch was taken to a local hospital with minor injuries, following the mayday call.

UPS: The Market Street firehouse in Morristown was built in 1870 and now serves as a location for antique apparatus and historical

paraphernalia. Recently, the brick structure received an exterior upgrade with new garage doors. They are described as carriage house style garage doors. The firehouse was the home of Washington Engine Co. 1 and the Independent Hose Company. No longer in use, volunteers continue to restore the structure and apparatus.

DOWNS: Nine buses suffered damage as a result of a fire at a Route 27 bus yard in Franklin Twp., Nov. 3rd. Fire units from the Community Fire Co. and East Franklin extinguished the fires.

UPS: On Nov. 3rd, Linden firefighters helped deliver a baby at the woman's home on 4th Ave. Firefighters found the woman in bed with the baby crowning, according to a statement from Linden Fire Chief William Hasko, Jr. The birth was imminent, and they were able to safely deliver the girl at 7:12 a.m. and transport mother and infant to a local hospital.

DOWNS: Police charged a 12year-old Ocean City boy with arson related charges for a November 15th fire that closed the Acme supermarket on Eighth St., officials said. The fire was limited to the parking garage under the supermarket.

UPS: On Nov. 23rd, members of

Hackensack IAFF Locals 2081 & 3172 donated 100 turkeys and nearly a thousand pounds of dry food and Thanksgiving fixing to the Center for Food Action in Hackensack and Saddle Brook.

DOWNS: Members of a Hudson Avenue family, in Englewood, were displaced from their home after the house caught fire while plumbing work was being done on the secondfloor, Oct. 31st., officials said.

UPS: Hackensack firefighters, using a boat and ropes, rescued a troubled 32-year-old man from the Hackensack River after he plunged from a pedestrian bridge on FDU campus grounds, Nov. 23rd. The man was suspected of committing a series of burglaries, according to police. The man was taken to HUMC for treatment and a mental health evaluation.

DOWNS: One firefighter was injured and 10 residents displaced after a fire at a Franklin Ave. dwelling in West Orange, Nov. 5th.

The firefighter suffered a fall resulting in a minor knee injury and was taken to St. Barnabas Medical Center for evaluation. A pet cat was rescued from one of the apartments, officials said.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

January, 2021

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NEW JERSEY GIGS 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.

NEW JERSEY MEMORIES 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.

"All I want for Christmas is a chief's car!" Future firefighter Carter Yaple, wearing a miniature Wood-Ride FD turnout coat, admires Hackensack FD's new Car 332 at the scene of a multiple-alarm fire in October. Firefighter Yaple is the nephew of Hackensack Firefighters Michael and Kevin Cribben.

RON JEFFERS

Burlington Township used this American LaFrance tractor drawn aerial ladder.

JOHN A. CALDERONE

RON JEFFERS

Hackensack Car 332's Chevy SUV is used by the department's Public Information Officer.

RON JEFFERS

Union City EMS Supervisor Car 312 is a 2016 Ford Explorer.

RON JEFFERS

A custom model of Union City EMS Car 312 made by EMS Chief, and president of G & F Enterprise, Inc., George Fierro. (See Ups & Downs)

JOHN A. CALDERONE

The Church Road Fire Company in Cherry Hill operated this chrome yellow Mack 75-foot tower ladder.

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January, 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.

Brush 57 of the Applegarth Volunteer Fire Department in Monroe Township (Middlesex County), is this 1986 Dodge Ram 350 with Reading body. It is quartered at the volunteer station on Applegarth Road, which at one time had paid members. This was until a new station was built for the paid staff.

The truck has a 4x4 chassis, Hale 250-GPM pump, 250-gallon water tank, one-inch booster reel, two ¾-inch whip-lines and three-inch supply hose. Other features and equipment include a front-mounted winch, a brush cage, Indian tanks, a broom, long tools, spanners, hydrant wrench and spot lights.

JAMES BESSEMER

Quick access was gained to patient for care and removal. CuttersSpreaders-Sawsall, also known as the "The Holy Trinity", were used by ATFD.

Allamuchy Extricates One from Halloween Rollover Allamuchy, NJ - Just before midnight on October 31st, Allamuchy Firefighters were dispatched to an MVA with rollover and possible entrapment on the Rt. 80 west exit ramp for exit 19. Upon arrival of Fire Chief 91-60, a vehicle was found on its side and the driver was confirmed entrapped.

Heavy Rescue 91-75 arrived within minutes. Crews were split into two groups, one for stabilization and one for tool setup and preparation. Firefighters stabilized the vehicle by loading the Paratech Struts with a Come-Along, allowing the "clean" side of the vehicle to be free of obstructions.

JUMP TO FILE #110520107 Once the vehicle was secure, firefighters utilized the Cutters, Spreaders, and Sawsall to remove the roof, taking advantage of the moon roof. Engine 91-63 arrived shortly after 91-75 and provided additional support with roof removal and patient care.

The patient was removed within 15 minutes and turned over to 95 Rescue for transport. All units were clear by 1:00 A.M. - JAMES BESSEMER

JOHN M. MALECKY

Applegarth's Brush 57, 1986 Dodge Ram 350/Reading with 250-GPM pump, 250-gallon water tank and front winch.

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@1stResponderNews.com.

BILL TOMPKINS – WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM

Teaneck Engine 2, using the TFD’s classic reserve unit, establishes a water supply at a multiple-alarm fire in Hackensack. The rig is a 1991 Mack CF/Darley pumper with a 1500-GPM pump and a 500-gallon water tank.

Right/rear view of Applegarth's Brush 57.

JOHN M. MALECKY

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

January, 2021

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January, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

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

CHRIS TOMPKINS WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM

RON JEFFERS

Ridgefield Captain Freitag, of Engine Co. 3, secured Old Glory from a burning borough dwelling, and secured it in a rig, during a 2-alarm fire in November.

Multiple Crews Respond to Three-Alarm Fire in Haworth Haworth, NJ - Haworth firefighters battled a three-alarm fire that damaged a home on Sunset Avenue late Saturday night, November 1st.

Firefighters were called to 455 Sunset Avenue for a reported structure fire just before 11:00 P.M. Chief 152 arrived on scene to find smoke coming from the attic and transmitted a second-alarm, and also requested a FAST team from Dumont to respond.

Dumont Rescue 3 was first to

JUMP TO FILE #110120116 arrive, followed by Haworth Ladder 169. Rescue 3 made entry and performed a search of the residence, and also assisted Haworth with stretching the initial line. The fire, which was located in the attic, began to break through the roof in the rear of the home.

Crews laddered the roof and vented as interior crews located

the fire and extinguished the flames in the attic with three hand lines.

A third-alarm was transmitted for manpower as extensive overhaul was performed. No injuries were reported. Mutual aid from Dumont, Demarest, Harrington Park, Oradell, New Milford, Cresskill and Tenafly assisted. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

- CHRIS TOMPKINS

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

CHRIS TOMPKINS WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM

Passaic Captain John Hayowyk gives orders at a 3rd alarm fire on 11-9-20.

www.1rbn.com

BOB SHERMAN JR.

Hamilton Twp. (Mercer County) Station 12's "DUKE" with Squad 12 Firefighters William Kohut and Eric Pullen.

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Vehicle News

RON JEFFERS

RON JEFFERS

In 2020, Newark Ladder 12's 1998 E-One 100-foot rear-mount aerial ladder received a new red paint job by Lembo Auto Body.

Former Tenafly Engine 1's 1994 Seagrave 1750-GPM pumper has been acquired by the East Orange F.D. and runs as Squad 1.

RON JEFFERS

RON JEFFERS

The Hackensack FD has acquired this 1994 Pierce Arrow 1500-GPM/500-GWT pumper that saw original duty in Ridgewood. It is assigned as reserve Engine 3.

East Orange Engine 5 has been assigned this 1994 Pierce Lance 1500-GPM pumper that saw original duty in Cedar Knolls.

See your NEW truck in this space!

RON JEFFERS

Jersey City Squad 4's American LaFrance has been decommissioned. Former Engine 5's 2003 Pierce 2000-GPM/500-GWT pumper has been re-assigned to the company until a new rescue-pumper is acquired.

If your truck is new from a manufacturer or new to you, we want to feature it in our vehicle news section!

Email a clear, outdoor, well-lit photo to us at: News@1stResponderNews.com along with a brief description of the vehicle as well as the name of the department.

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January, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

My Greatest Gift To You This Christmas, Is A Healthy Me Chaplain’s Corner Pastor Fernando Villicana

Matthew 22:36 “Teacher, which is the great commandment in the law?” v37 Jesus said to him, "'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ v38 This is the first and great commandment. v39 And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ v40 On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.”

In uncertain times, in times where morals are being redefined and so many of the traditional values that many of us were raised with are being re-visited, God speaks to us and provides divine direction. The only two things that God really asks of humanity are encapsulated in the verses we just read. In the Bible, a religious leader asked Jesus: “Which one law in the volumes of writings would you say is the most important one?” Jesus answered: “all the law and all the prophets hang on just two things.”

1) Love God with all you’ve got (with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind) 2) “Love people like you love yourself.”

No matter what generation we find ourselves in - a real loving relationship with God will reduce the need for a long list of laws.

A real healthy relationship with God is what brings everything else into alignment. Loving God orders your world. Loving God sorts out your love life, family life, friendships… Jesus knew that if we got the top button of our shirts right, the rest should fall into alignment. Jesus is teaching all of us that if we love Him with all of our hearts, we would learn from Him how to love others.

Here Jesus replaces rules with relationships. So, the best gift I can give someone in my circle of influence is a healthy me. ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself'. If you love people, I mean really care about them, then you probably won’t: steal from them, lie to them, cheat on them, verbally abuse them, cuss them out, hurt them, talk behind their backs… What if we approached this Christmas (Jesus birthday) with a determination and a realization that if I would be spiritually healthy, the people around me will benefit from it. And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, Hebrews 10:24 So, the greatest gift to you this Christmas is a healthy me!

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

Deptford Fire Department's Tacoma Station now operates a 2020 E-One 2000/300/ 95' Tower Ladder.

JOHN RIETH

Brevent Park Fire Co. in Middletown Twp. operates Marine Support Unit 2009 Ford F-450/Reading that was acquired in 2019.

MIKE NOWACKI

Pioneer Hose Company No.1, located in Brick Township, operates Rescue 2213, a 2015 Spartan/Rescue 1 heavy rescue.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

January, 2021

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Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays to all of our good friends in Fire & Emergency Services!

Our Holiday Celebrations this year are tempered by the times in which we live. First Responders are among those who have been most impacted by the Covid 19 Pandemic. Yet, these men and women who are “first on the scene” continue to perform admirably in a most trying climate.

We admire and respect all of you and wish that you will take time to share in the Holiday Spirit of Peace, Love, Happiness and Justice.

To all who serve – THANK YOU! Enjoy the Holidays!!

New Jersey Fire Equipment Co. Equipment, Hose, Supplies 119-131 Route 22 East • Green Brook, NJ 08812 295C Bergen Turnpike • Ridgefield Park, NJ 07660 68 First Avenue • Atlantic Highlands, NJ 07716

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

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January, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

Hollywood Arson Fires

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

VIDEO REVIEW

Video reviews by John Malecky

Hollywood Arson Fires

By Firestorm HD Productions Available from: FSP Books & Videos 188 Central Street, Suite3 #4 Hudson, MA 01749-1330 1-800-522-8528 E-mail: support@fire-policeems.com www.fire-polkice-ems.com Price: 24.95

This DVD is approximately 47 minutes in length and it covers a four-day New Year’s weekend in 2011-12. Within that time there was a total of 53 incidents. The fires took place in the districts of Hollywood, West Hollywood, North Hollywood, Burbank, Studio City, Sun Valley and Sherman Oaks.

RON JEFFERS

Jersey City Chief of Department Steve McGill wears a new COVID mask issued to members that reminds everyone to "Keep back 6 feet".

Pretty much all of the fires involved autos, with and sometimes without extensions, to structures above. Most of the fires started in carports and some were in garages.

All are spectacular, with many fully involved vehicles. That is the aim of arsonists! Some of the complexes are large with a whole line of cars in the carports, making for a horrific sight of burning. Firefighters are kept rather busy stretching handlines and raising aerials for ventilation. Each incident covered with a location, date, type of situation and which fire station is the first due in the district (ex. LAFD FS 27). Many expensive autos were destroyed. In the end there was an arsonist arrested. There was also a fire in an abandoned two-story church, but I do not think that it was attributed to the arsonist.

There is no narration, just the information given on the screen at the start of each incident, however the viewer can hear verbal exchanges among the firefighters in the course of their operations.

Read more columns at www.1RBN.com

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

January, 2021

PAGE 29

From Our Family at Blaze Emergency Equipment to your Family We Wish you a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy & Healthy 2021!

Congratulations to Germania Volunteer Fire Company on the Delivery of their Sutphen Tender

Features Include:

• 3,500-gallon tanker from Sutphen mounted on a Kenworth T880 chassis • 2-door, 2-seat climate controlled cab • Cummins X-15 diesel (505-hp) engine • Allison EVS4500P automatic transmission • Hale DSD125-23S single stage “Sidekick” pump • UPF Poly Tank III 3,500 gallon water tank with a 4F stainless steel wrap • Trident air prime • Whelen LED scene lighting

• Amdor shutters • Slide out tool trays • Kussmaul auto-eject battery conditioner • LED compartment lighting • 2 side & 1 rear Newton Kwik-Dump valves with electric controls • 2 rear direct tank fills • Zico swing-down 3,500-gallon portable tank • Federal Q2B mechanical siren

Blaze Emergency Equipment Company 102 Firehouse Rd. Browns Mills, NJ 08015

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

www.blazeemergency.com

PAGE 30

January, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

MEET OUR CORRESPONDENTS

ACTION SHOT

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

PROVIDED

Todd Hollritt is a firefighter with the West Paterson, NJ Fire Department, Rifle Camp Fire Company 3, "The Ridge Runners", where he achieved the rank of Captain. An avid fire photographer and historian, he has both fought fires and documented fire scenes in photos and videos since 1980, many of which grace the pages of the 1st Responder News website. He has been a correspondent for 1st Responder News since 2004.

Rick Billings

BILL TOMPKINS – WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM

Members of Paterson Engine Company 3 advance a 2 ½” line to the 2nd floor of the “B” exposure at a multiple-alarm in Passaic on Oak Street. Flames had entered the structure, but companies were able to knock the fire down and keep it from extending further.

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1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

January, 2021

PAGE 31

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PAGE 32

January, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

Jersey City Ladder Co. 4 Receives Blessing Jersey City, NJ - Firefighters and city officials assembled at Fire Headquarters on Marin Boulevard, November 5th, for a ceremony that revealed the fire department's new Pierce Ascendant model 100-foot platform.

Department JUMP TO FILE# Chaplain, Rev. 110620102 James Pagnotta, blessed the new truck and its firefighters. Fire Chief Steven McGill said it is a fire department tradition to bless a new fire apparatus before it goes into service. He said it will replace a platform model that is some 18-years-old.

In addition, Chief McGill thanked Mayor Fulop and city officials for the acquisition of the new apparatus, assigned to Ladder Co. 4, that will operate from the Ocean Avenue firehouse in the southern end of the city.

- RON JEFFERS

Jersey City Fire Department Chaplain, Rev. James Pagnotta, blessed Ladder 4's new platform and its members.

RON JEFFERS

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

January, 2021

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January, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

PATCH OF THE MONTH If you have photos you would like to see in our “Patch of the Month” feature please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

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@1stResponderNews.com.

BILL TOMPKINS – WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM

EUGENE WEBER JR.

This patch belongs to the Evesham Fire Department, located in Burlington County, NJ.

Hasbrouck Heights Engine 1, a 2002 Pierce with a 2000-GPM pump, a 1000-gallon water tank, and 50gallons of foam, supplies several handlines at a recent two-alarm house fire in the borough.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

January, 2021

PAGE 35

Tenafly House Fire Quickly Knocked Down Tenafly, NJ - Tenafly firefighters made quick work of a house fire on East Clinton Avenue around midnight on Tuesday, November 3rd.

JUMP TO FILE# A call came in 110820100 through SPEN reporting a house fire at 240 East Clinton Avenue. Tenafly PD arrived on scene and reported a house with fire showing. Chief Philpott arrived on scene and confirmed a working fire, with fire showing on the 'Delta' side, and requested a FAST team from Dumont. First arriving crews stretched a line to the interior and were able to make a quick knock of the fire within minutes.

The fire, which is believed to have started on the deck before extending into the house, is still under investigation. No injuries were reported.

- CHRIS TOMPKINS

CHRIS TOMPKINS WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM

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January, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

Suburban and Urban Trucks; HME Purchases Remaining Assets of Ahrens-Fox

(Author’s note: In last month’s column there was a typo on the generator size of Hamburg’s Rescue 1. It should have read as a 35 kw instead of 325.)

This month we explore some apparatus from suburban and urban departments. Representing a suburban department is Randolph Township in Morris County, featuring a Spartan ER pumper on a Metro Star chassis from Mount Freedom (Company 3) and a support unit from Shongum Mountain (Company 5) built by EVI on a Ford chassis. Next two urban departments represented by a Pierce heavy rescue and a Ferrara foam tender on an International chassis, both in Perth Amboy in Middlesex County, and a Horton ambulance, a Pierce pumper with telescoping waterway and a Pierce pumper/tanker on a Freightliner chassis in Linden (Union County). A couple of quick notes: the foam tender in Perth Amboy has no water pump. It has a Fire Lion Model FP2-175 auxiliary foam pump rated at 135-235 GPM and a UPF 4000-gallon foam tank with Universal Gold foam. There is also a Foam Pro Series 3150 System which meters foam for discharge. Essentially this vehicle is fed water in order to deliver finished foam through the discharges or through its TFT Magnum EXM monitor. The “3150” has no relation to any water or finished foam discharge. It is just a part number.

Pumper/tanker in Linden was bought by Union County and although it is quartered and manned in Linden, it is subject to respond throughout the county and beyond for mutual aid if needed. The Linden chief told me that it had been dispatched to Jersey City in Hudson County not too long ago on mutual aid.

The P.O.L. (Property Owners League) Fire Company (No.2) in Wayne Township (Passaic County) reports that they have taken delivery of a new pumper built by Toyne Fire Apparatus. It has heir newly adopted color which is Spartan silver metallic over Spartan red. Their former color was lime yellow. It is their second Toyne pumper. Specs include a Gladiator LFD chassis with 10-inch raised roof cab, Cummins ISX 12, 500 hp diesel engine, Hale Qmax 1500-GPM pump, UP{F 750-gallon water and 75-gallon Class “B” foam tanks, Hale Foamlogix 5.0 foam system, ROM roll-up compartment doors, enclosed ladder and pike pole storage, three crosslays (two 1 ¾ and one 2 1.2-inch), ¾ booster reel at rear, back up camera, Onan 10 kw generator electric cord reel and Whelen and FRC scene lighting. They also tell us that they have had a pre-construction meeting with Toyne to replace their 2001 Spartan/American LaFrance/Pierce platform quint.

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

Linden Ambulance L-51, 2019 Ford F-450/Horton 457. It was sold

by VCI Emergency Vehicle Specialists.

Mt. Freedom FC in Randolph Township E-31, 2018 Spartan ER Metro Star 1500/750/30 with 4.5 kw generator. It was sold by Campbell Supply Co., LLC.

JOHN M. MALECKY

JOHN M. MALECKY

Union County T-7, 2018 Freightliner 114SD/Pierce 1250/3500 with 10-inch dump valve. It is quartered in Linden and was sold by Fire & Safety Services.

JOHN M. MALECKY

Shongum Mountain FC of Randolph Township placed in service Support 54, a 2020 Ford F-550/EVI which has a 6.5 kw generator. It was sold by Campbell Supply Co., LLC. Perth Amboy Foam Tender, 2020 International HX620/Ferrara with 4000-gallon Class B foam tank and Foam Pro Model 3150 System.

It was sold by Firefighter 1.

JOHN M. MALECKY

Linden E-3, 2020 Pierce Enforcer 2000/500 with 55-foot telescoping boom. It was sold by Fire & Safety Services.

JOHN M. MALECKY

Some may remember that it originally was built with an RD Murray body which was part of American LaFrance and had a Canadian built Nova Quintech platform. However by the time the truck was delivered Nova Quintech was sold to Pierce, hence the Pierce name came into play. When I photographed it new, it was a mystery truck because it had no manufacturer’s nameplates on it. So apparatus photographers had to name it as it is described here. Currently there is no Toyne dealer in our state.

In dealer news, VCI Emergency Equipment Specialists has made the following Horton ambulance remount deliveries: an HRV 553 to

Arbor Rescue Squad in Piscataway Township (Middlesex County), a Ford F-550 4x4 to Upper Township Rescue Squad (Cape May County), and a 523 to the Galloway Township Ambulance (Atlantic County).

Emergency Equipment Sales & Service, the HME Ahrens-Fox dealer for our state, reports that HME Incorporated has purchased the remaining assets of the AhrensFox Engine Company which include records, technical drawings and a parts inventory dating all the way back to the early 1900’s. HME Ahrens-Fox is working to build upon the Ahrens-Fox legacy for forward thinking innovations and also has the unique ability to provide

JOHN M. MALECKY

Perth Amboy Rescue 1, 2020 Pierce Arrow XT with 25 KW generator and 9,000 pound winch. It was sold by Fire & Safety Services.

parts and technical support to the antique Ahrens-Fox apparatus still in existence. HME Ahrens-Fox has released the AF-1 cab and chassis which is available for the full line of HME Ahrens-Fox pumper, rescue and aerial products. The AF-1 is the first in a series of upcoming products that are being released to pay homage to the Ahrens-Fox legacy.

As the HME Ahrens-Fox dealer and service center for New Jersey and eastern Pennsylvania, EES is able to help customers throughout the re-

gion to keep these antiques alive and in a lot of cases, use genuine OEM components. EES also has a rescue pumper demo in stock based on the Ahrens–Fox AF-1 chassis and also features the Ahrens-Fox 2000 stainless steel centrifugal pump which is manufactured inhouse by HME Ahrens-Fox. EES has received an order from the Ogdensburg VFD (Sussex County) for an HME Ahrens-Fox pumper.

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1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

Apparatus of the Month Continued from Page 36

Specs include a stainless steel body on an 1871-W chassis with six seat cab having a 12-inch raised roof, Cummins L9, 450 hp diesel engine, Hale 2000-GPM pump, 500gallon water tank, front intake, six pre-connected attack lines, full height and depth compartments, enclosed ladder storage and a large hose bed with a custom stokes basket and RIT equipment storage area.

They have also received an order from the Gloucester County EMS for four Excellance Type III ambulances on Ford E-450 chassis. Specs include Excellance’s 100% welded aluminum body and cabinetry, custom interior layout and Whelen LED warning and scene lights. They have delivered an Excellance custom ambulance to the Florence Township Fire District 1 in Burlington County.

Absolute Fire Protection has received an order from Madison (Morris County) for an E-ONE Cyclone pumper with 100-inch cab, rear-mounted pump, E-ONE’s new four-inch front and 12-inch rear vista roof, Waterous 1250-GPM pump, 500-gallon water and 40-gallon foam tanks, 200 CFM CAFS, ladder rack, quad rear speedlays and six head Will Burt 15-foot Spectra tower.

Fire & Safety Services reports the following Pierce orders: for Boonton Township (Morris County) an Enforcer tanker, Union Township (Union County) a stock Arrow XT pumper and Midland Park (Bergen County) an Enforcer pumper. Pierce deliveries include in Bergen County a Velocity 100-foot mid-mount tower to Elmwood Park, to Mahwah FC 2 an Arrow XT pumper and to Harrington Park an Impel 107-foot Ascendant rear-mount ladder.

Berkeley Heights (Union County) received a Velocity 100-foot midmount tower. I learned from an outside source that Berkeley Heights 1995 Pierce Lance rear-mount platform quint has been sold to Atlantic Highlands (Monmouth County). I should also mention that all Pierce mid-mount 100-foot platforms sold are now Ascendant models.

A couple of avid readers have furnished some information on E-ONE deliveries in the southern half of the state: in Gloucester County, Gloucester City received a Typhoon rescue pumper and Deptford received a Cyclone 95-foot platform.

Mullica Hill is expecting a twin to it shortly. In Burlington County, Westampton Township received a rescue pumper. In Camden County, Audubon Park received a Typhoon rescue pumper 1500-GPM, 1000gallon water and 30 A foam tanks and it carries Holmatro rescue tools.

In Salem County, Penns Grove received a Cyclone 100-foot rearmount quint 2000/470/30A and it carries Hurst Tools.

Blaze Emergency Equipment has made three Sutphen deliveries. To the Germania VFD in Galloway Township (Atlantic County) went a 3500-gallon tanker on a Kenworth T880 chassis with two door climate controlled cab. Features include a Cummins X15, 505 hp diesel engine, Hale DSD125-23S single stage Sidekick pump, UPF water tank with 4F stainless steel wrap, Trident air prime, Whelen scene lighting, Amdor roll-up doors, two side and one rear Newton KwikDump valves with electric controls, two rear direct tank fills and a Zico swing-down 3500-gallon portable tank carrier. Specs for the other two deliveries (Chatham in Morris County and Point Pleasant Boro in Ocean County) will be listed next month.

Defender Emergency Products has made the following deliveries: to Ventnor City (Atlantic County), a Rosenbauer 78-foot Viper aerial on a Warrior chassis with four-seat cab.

Specs include a Cummins L9, 400 hp diesel engine, two custom EMSA compartments in the cab, galvanized aerial with wireless Smart Aerial Technology, Hale 1250-GPM pump and 400-gallon water tank. Also, the McCabe Ambulance Service in Bayonne (Hudson County) received a Medix RP90 Type III ambulance on a Ford E-350 chassis. Specs include a Stryker Performance Load Stretcher System, 200 watt inverter, Whelen lighting, full print and graphics package and static load tested to 50,000 psi.

Campbell Supply Co., LLC reports two EVI orders for the County of Middlesex. One is a 25-foot walk-in medical testing unit on a Freightliner chassis and the other is an 18-foot hazmat response unit on a Freightliner chassis. They are prepping a tactical command unit on a Ford Transit 350 chassis for the Monmouth County Prosecutors Office.

Read more from all of our columnists at www.1RBN.com

January, 2021

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1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

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

MEMORIAL BOARD

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

BEACHWOOD VFD

BOB SHERMAN JR.

On November 10th at 2:49 P.M., Robbinsville Squad 40, Hamilton Twp. (Mercer County) Engines 16 and 18, along with Truck 13 and Chief 19, Arron Heller, were dispatched to South Main Street, Windsor for a reported dwelling fire with victims trapped. Squad 40 on arrival discovered fire in a 20'X10' outbuilding with smoke showing and no entrapment. Chief 40, Daniel Schaffener, had Command. The fire was investigated by Fire Marshal 40, Brian Johnson. Pictured is Squad 40 Apparatus Operator Nicholas D-Alonzo on scene.

It is with the deepest regret that the Beachwood Fire Department must announce the passing of Life-Member Harry M. Alonzo. Harry was with the fire department from 1953 to 1979. Harry worked through the ranks, serving as Lieutenant and Captain in the 1960's and then as Assistant Chief in the early 70s. Harry was very active on the many committees he served on. He will be fondly remembered and truly missed by all that knew him. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Alonzo family. Rest easy brother, we'll take it from here.

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1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

January, 2021

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January, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ