1st Responder News New Jersey June Edition

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ORANGE, NJ - An Orange firefighter escaped serious injury at the scene of a blaze in a multiple dwelling that had been damaged by fire several months earlier. On April 5th, shortly after 11:00 P.M., Orange fire units responded to 335 Henry Street for a reported fire. A second-alarm was transmitted as heavy fire was showing from the two-story frame vacant multiple dwelling.

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June, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

Captain Eugene (Gino) La Mastro Served Us Well Eugene (Gino) La Mastro was a marine who served in Vietnam (1968-1970). He joined the Union City Police Department in 1971.

Gino and I worked on the same squad in lower Union City and he was my back up car. He became a city firefighter in 1980 and was promoted to captain in the North Hudson Regional FD in 2005.

Gino was always full of life, an excellent cook, and he loved being a firefighter. He enjoyed baking and proudly served as a firehouse chef. In 1991, he won second place for his “flourless” chocolate raspberry cake when he competed in a state FMBA cooking contest.

Captain La Mastro died on April 14th after a battle with cancer.

Before he retired, he opened up The Firehouse Bagel Company on Route 206, in Branchville. It was a restaurant with a fire service theme loaded with fire memorabilia that he had collected for his business.

Several years earlier, he had acquired a 1958 Mack pumper. He used it, to the delight of children, in the annual UCFD Christmas parade. After the 1999 merger, it was a North Hudson parade, traveling down Bergenline Avenue, covering four of the five municipalities that make up the regional department.

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The Mack later became the restaurant's landmark, located in front of the business.

Gino loved the holidays and took pride in putting decorative lighting on the Mack. It was another reason for customers to stop by the restaurant with holiday spirit.

Gino made many more contacts in the fire service, from numerous states, that would stop by the restaurant. Visiting firefighters would drop off one of their local department's shoulder patches to be part of his display. Gino also took great pride in his 9/11 memorial. He displayed his youthful energy when showing off the store and its collection.

Many who worked with him were shocked at the news of his passing. He was upbeat until the end. Even during his last days in hospice care, he was up and talking, with his remaining energy.

In an interview I did with him about the restaurant in 2011 for 1st Responder News, he said, “Being a fireman, you can never get that out of your blood.”

FRANK BAER

1st Responder News NJ Editor Ron Jeffers, left, with retired Fire Captain Eugene (Gino) La Mastro at The Firehouse Bagel Company, in 2011.

- RON JEFFERS

RON JEFFERS

On the morning of April 20th, North Hudson firefighters offered retired Captain Eugene (Gino) La Mastro a final salute at the 16th Street firehouse in Union City, where he spent many years. He also patrolled the same area when he was a police officer in the 1970's. Captain La Mastro lost his life in the Line of Duty as a result of health complications that he incurred from his duty at the World Trade Center after the 9/11 attacks on our country. La Mastro was a U.S. Marine and a Vietnam veteran.

Read more news around New Jersey on our website!

DAVID VELEZ

North Hudson Captain Eugene La Mastro.

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June, 2021

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June, 2021

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CORPORATE INFORMATION 1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New Jersey edition - Vol. 28 No. 6 - 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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BEACHWOOD VFD

Auto Repair Shop in Fair Lawn Damaged by Fire FAIR LAWN, NJ - The Fair Lawn Fire Department was dispatched to a report of smoke coming from a business on the three block of Fair Lawn Avenue at 6:13 P.M. on April 25th.

Upon arrival, smoke and fire was noticed inside the garage area at Prestige Autowerks. Engine 4 was first due, and stretched a line to the rear of the building and tried to make entry through a door into the garage. Members attempted to force the rear door, but the top of the door was blocked by a loft/storage shelf and had heavy clutter in the doorway.

“The fire was located in the garage area of a car maintenance facility," said Fair Lawn Fire Chief Thomas Carney. “The firefighters quickly stretched an additional hand line into the building and got the fire knocked down. The members did a great job preventing further damage to the building.”

The fire was declared under

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control by 6:40 P.M. Overhaul operations continued and all remaining companies were cleared from the scene shortly after 8:00 P.M. In addition to the Fire Department, Fair Lawn Police, Fair Lawn Rescue Squad, and the Fair Lawn Volunteer Ambulance Corp provided assistance on scene. Standby mutual aid was provided by the Saddle Brook FD, Elmwood Park FD, Glen Rock FD, and the Paramus FD. The fire brought approximately 40 firefighters to the scene. The Fair Lawn Fire Prevention Bureau is the lead agency for the fire investigation.

(Author's Note: Thank you to the Fair Lawn FD for the information for this article.)

- DAMIEN DANIS

BEACHWOOD VFD

Arson Deemed Cause of Major Brush Fire in Lakewood-Brick LAKEWOOD, NJ - The Beachwood Fire Department provided assistance in Lakewood and Brick on March 15th for a major brush fire incident. They spent several hours providing structural protection as part of the strike team assigned to the area of Francis Road. The fire was first spotted on the afternoon of Sunday, March 14th, and took more than 24 hours to be contained. Flames swept through 167-acres, damaging 29 homes and two businesses. Three of the homes were destroyed. According to the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office, the fire was intentionally set and the arson investigation is active and ongoing.

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June, 2021

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Ohio: Donald Beauchene, 54 Rank: Lieutenant Incident Date: November 9, 2020 Death Date: November 17, 2020 Fire Department: Warren City Fire Department Initial Summary: Lieutenant Donald Beauchene contracted COVID-19 while on-duty. He passed away on Tuesday, November 17, 2020.

Tennessee: Ronald Steven Perry, 57 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: November 15, 2020 Death Date: December 17, 2020 Fire Department: East Sullivan County Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: Firefighter Ronald Steven Perry responded to a mutual aid call of a building fire on Sunday, November 15, 2020. He and two other firefighters subsequently contracted COVID-19. Firefighter Perry passed away on Thursday, December 17, 2020, from the virus.

Pennsylvania: Mark “Dewey” E. Kulp, 52 Rank: Firefighter/EMT Incident Date: December 8, 2020 Death Date: January 5, 2021 Fire Department: Reading Department of Fire and Rescue Services Initial Summary: Firefighter/EMT Mark “Dewey” E. Kulp transported at least two patients to hospitals, who had tested positive for COVID-19. He also evaluated a patient on-scene that possibly had the virus. He subsequently contracted the disease and passed away on January 5, 2021.

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Florida: Lloyd Losinger, 60 Rank: Captain Incident Date: December 4, 2020 Death Date: January 6, 2021 Fire Department: Ocean City-Wright Fire Control District Initial Summary: Captain Lloyd Losinger, while performing fire inspections, contracted COVID-19. He passed away from the virus on Wednesday, January 6, 2021.

Texas: Danny Watkins, 67 Rank: Chief Incident Date: December 14, 2020 Death Date: January 12, 2021 Fire Department: San Benito Fire Department Initial Summary: Chief Danny Watkins contracted COVID-19 while on-duty. He passed away from the virus on Tuesday, January 12, 2021.

Tennessee: Ronald “Ronnie” Gene Spitzer, 65 Rank: Chief Incident Date: December 11, 2020 Death Date: January 13, 2021 Fire Department: Rocky Top Fire Department Initial Summary: Chief Ronald “Ronnie” Gene Spitzer, while on-duty, responded to a medical call on December 11, 2020 with another firefighter. It was determined later that the patient had COVID-19. He and the firefighter both contracted the virus. Chief Ronald “Ronnie” Gene Spitzer passed away on Wednesday, January 13, 2021 from the disease.

California: William Christopher Mertz, 54 Rank: Captain Incident Date: December 27, 2020 Death Date: January 20, 2021 Fire Department: Rancho Santa Fe Fire Protection District Initial Summary: Captain William Christopher Mertz, while on-duty at the fire department, contracted COVID-19. He passed away on Wednesday, January 20, 2021 from the virus.

Texas: Erik Segura, 45 Rank: Captain Incident Date: November 23, 2020 Death Date: January 26, 2021 Fire Department: Laredo Fire Department Initial Summary: Captain Erik Segura was part of the COVID-19 response team for the Laredo Fire Department. He contracted the virus while responding to an EMS call from a patient with a known case of the disease. He passed away on Tuesday, January 26, 2021.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

June, 2021

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The North (Firefighters) Takes Care of the South UPS & DOWNS Notes from Ron Jeffers

Outdated, but still useful gear has been donated to fire departments in rural southern Alabama by firefighters from New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania.

Beemerville Fire Captain Hunter Space, of the Wantage Township Fire Department, began a Facebook friendship with Robert Bowers, a firefighter in Alabama. Rural southern departments, like Bower's, do not have the funding to acquire new equipment. A series of tornadoes in March made conditions even worse.

Space had been looking for a place to donate gear-outdated for New Jersey standards-that were still useful. Gear is supposed to be replaced every 10-years, but that is a rule and not a national requirement, according to firefighters.

Some Alabama departments are still operating with fire apparatus made in the 1970's. In addition, some volunteer members have paid for apparatus repairs themselves, said Firefighter Jim Hudock, Space's father-in-law.

“Friends of mine (who are fire chiefs), their guys have taken money out of their own pockets to put fuel in the trucks, buy equipment for the trucks,” Bowers said.

Space contacted area fire departments in Warren and Sussex counties and asked for help. The word spread and donations grew to a tractor-trailer load of equipment to be

donated. That included donations from departments in New York and Pennsylvania, as well. The donations included hose, protective clothing, medical equipment, rescue tools, generators, SCBA, and more.

The Nancy Run Fire Company in Bethlehem Township, Pa., donated a fire truck which had recently been replaced, plus other equipment.

Donations were also received to fuel up the tractor-trailer, delivering the donations. About 80% came from a group of funeral directors, and the rest from a private donor.

Gear was loaded up at Beemerville Fire Company in Wantage for the trip south. That was one of the donation sites, along with one in Washington Township (Warren County).

The 18-wheeler loaded with equipment arrived at Coker V.F.D., in Coker, Alabama, on April 8th.

Bowers, the Coker fire chief, and Firefighter James Booth welcomed the delivery. They examined the equipment that would have cost tens-of-thousands of dollars, or more, for Alabama departments to purchase. Bowers said the gear will be distributed in counties that include Tuscalousa, Pickens, Fayette, Clay, Blount and Etowah.

Franklin Township volunteer Firefighter Monica Quartarolo decided to run an effort out of her business, Your CBD Store in Clifton, to create large totes filled with toys and other items for the children of firefighters in Alabama who had lost their homes. That project is still on going. People can bring in a bag of toys or other items as a donation and will receive $5.00 off any purchase in the store. No purchase is necessary to donate, she said.

In reference to the firefighters up North, Bowers said, “I'm telling

you, those guys bailed us out. They really have taken care of us. They don't realize the blessing they have brought to these departments.”

DOWNS: Solar panels caught fire atop the Hobby Lobby store on Route 35 in Holmdel, March 27th.

It is the second time in a year that solar panels at this building burned, officials said. One firefighter was treated for heat exhaustion.

UPS: Recently, the Point Boro First Aid Squad and Point Pleasant Fire Station 75 both received $1,400 donation checks from Boro4Boro Shirt Project organizers. In 2020, local eateries, retailers and other establishments launched the project and raised money through the sale of T-shirts to support first responders that serve the community during the pandemic. For the winter season, new apparel with hoodies went on sale.

DOWNS: A March 27th fire caused damage to Knockout Pizza on Chambersbridge Rd. in Lakewood, as well as damage to neighboring stores, officials said.

UPS: On March 31st, the East Rutherford Emergency Squad received a donation of 100 masks and hoods from Bartlo Packaging, of Passaic.

DOWNS: A 4-alarm fire tore through a row of stores at 240-244 Smith St., Perth Amboy, on March 30th. One firefighter suffered a minor injury, officials said.

UPS: The Caldwell Borough Council presented a proclamation to Fire Chief Andrew Pollara to honor the 32-member volunteer fire department, recognizing their 120th anniversary serving the community.

The virtual meeting was held in March. Chief Pollara said the department is saving its “big celebration” for the 125th anniversary.

DOWNS: A Village Harbor

dwelling on Clyde Lane in Stafford Twp. was reported destroyed by fire, and the house next door damaged, March 27th.

UPS: Last year, the fire departments of Hackensack, Teaneck and Englewood were awarded a $550,000 FEMA grant. This regional grant has been used to train every member of the three departments (200+) in Firefighter Safety & Survival and Rapid Intervention, in compliance with state and national standards. In March, the three departments trained at the Morris County Public Safety Academy.

DOWNS: Bayonne firefighters were able to rescue one dog, but could not save another, during a fire in a two-story dwelling on West Third St., March 30th, officials said.

UPS: On April 6th, Roseland volunteer firefighters offered a Happy Birthday greeting to Firefighter Frank Mazzocchi, 87, who still “puts on the gear” and responds to calls to serve his community. Mazzocchi has served as a volunteer firefighter for more than 50-years, according to a department spokesperson.

DOWNS: A woman and pet were killed as the result of a fire in a Lehigh Blvd. dwelling in Jackson, on April 1st. Another woman jumped from a second-floor window and suffered minor injuries, authorities said.

UPS: In East Rutherford, Meadowlands Fire Department members safely removed passengers after they became stranded on a roller coaster at Nickeloden Universe Theme Park within the American Dream mall, state police Sgt. Lawrence Peele, said. No injuries were reported.

DOWNS: A 7-year-old boy died in a fire that raced through an Astor St. townhouse in Newark, Apr. 8th,

and five other residents were injured. Firefighters rescued two adults and three children out of the home, officials said. The 7-yearold's body was located on the thirdfloor by firefighters.

UPS: The Chatham Emergency Squad is celebrating its 85th anniversary of service for the community. With nearly 1200 calls in 2020, the CES has grown as demands have grown for the squad's volunteer service.

DOWNS: A 71-year-old man died in a fire that involved a Dakota Ave. dwelling in Middletown Twp., April 2nd.

UPS: Paul Perrello has been promoted to Chief of Department in Hanover Township.

DOWNS: A 3-alarm fire involved the All County Recycling yard on Enterprise Ave., in Trenton, April 6th. The wind and water supply issues made it difficult to fight the fire, officials said.

UPS: New firefighters in Montclair are Connor McCann, Tyler Diggs, John Auletta and George Miller.

DOWNS: A burned body was discovered at the site of a brush fire behind a swim club near Boulevard East in West New York, April 7th.

After North Hudson firefighters extinguished the fire, the burned remains of a person was discovered, according to the Hudson County Prosecutor's Office.

UPS: John Wittnebert is the new firefighter appointed in Hanover Township.

DOWNS: A labor intensive fire in a mixed occupancy building on Asbury Ave., in Ocean City, caused extensive damage and forced four residents to evacuate, officials said.

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

June, 2021

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HERO HE ERO ER OES OE OES S INK INK

1st Responder Newspape er features EMERGENCY SERVICES RELA ATED TATTOOS

CHRIS TOMPKINS WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM

Stubborn Fire Goes to Three Alarms in Passaic

Mountainside Fire Chief Anthony Pecorelli, who is also a member of the New Jersey Forest Fire Service (Division A), recently had a tattoo done. It is the image of the chief's SCBA mask bearing a reflection image of his sons, Jake and Nicco, approaching a forest fire.

Would you like your emergency services related tattoo featured here? Contact Lindsey at

Lindsey@1strespondernews.com

PASSAIC, NJ - Firefighters battled a labor intensive house fire on Tuesday afternoon, April 13th, that spread through all floors of a large three-and-ahalf story home.

Shortly after 2:00 P.M., Passaic dispatch alerted all JUMP TO FILE# companies for a re- 041321132 ported structure fire at the corner of High Street and Boulevard.

Dispatch advised command that they were receiving multiple calls for heavy fire and smoke showing. Command arrived within minutes and reported that he had heavy fire and smoke showing from the rear of the building and transmitted a secondalarm.

Crews stretched multiple lines and attacked the heavy from the rear. Command advised that he had fire showing from the second floor 'Delta' side and live wires down on the second floor deck with conditions deteriorating. A third-alarm was transmitted as exterior lines knocked down the exterior fire, allowing firefighters to make an interior attack.

Ladder 2 took to the roof, cut a vent hole and opened windows on the upper floor. Tower 1 set up on the 'Bravo' side and East Rutherford Tower on the 'Delta' side while crews knocked down the fire on the first and second floors.

As crews battled fire on the lower floors, heavy fire extended to the third floor and attic, and

CHRIS TOMPKINS WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM

heavy smoke began pushing from the attic. Command ordered all companies out of the building and put all exterior lines into operation.

Heavy fire eventually vented through the roof, which was knocked down by ladder pipes.

The fire was extinguished in under two hours, however crews

remained on scene knocking down hot spots. Mutual aid from Paterson, Wallington, East Rutherford and Clifton assisted on scene. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and no injuries were reported.

- CHRIS TOMPKINS

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

June, 2021

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Ups & Downs Continued from Page 8

UPS: New firefighters in Springfield are Stephanie Bagniewski and Michael Vanadia.

DOWNS: An alleged drunk driver attempting to leave a singlevehicle crash on the Atlantic City Expressway, in April, struck a Winslow fire engine that came to assist, according to NJ.com. State troopers arrived before the car could drive away. The driver and passenger were in possession of a gun and were taken into custody.

UPS: Actor Kelsey Grammer visited the Liberty Corner Fire Company in April. Grammer is known for his Frasier Crane character on TV. Local Firefighter Tom Castronovo works in marketing for Grammer, and the actor is a big supporter of volunteer firefighters, according to Chief Carl Blanchard.

Grammer was born in the Virgin Islands, but he spent part of his childhood in New Jersey.

DOWNS: It took more than 62,000 gallons of water to extinguish a fire in a Camp Hoover building on Route 521 in Newton, April 14th, officials said.

UPS: On April 15th, the Unilever Federal Credit Union presented the Cliffside Park Fire Department with a check for $10,000 as a result of a grant program that UFCU and its partner, The Federal Home Loan Bank of New York, coordinated to help small business and non-profits in the New Jersey area.

DOWNS: The sky was filled with black smoke due to a twoalarm fire at a White Horse Pike auto body shop in Egg Harbor City, April 10th.

UPS: Paterson firefighters rescued a man from the base of the Great Falls on April 18th, officials said. The victim told firefighters that he jumped from the walkway bridge. The 32-year-old victim was on a rocky island at the base of the falls. One group of firefighters forced entry to the catwalk at the base of the hydroelectric plant, and another crew set up a down stream backup with inflatable hose at the Alfano Island Bridge. A roof ladder was rigged to the catwalk to use for accessing the water since there was no other access. A boat was lowered via rope and pulley system into the water using a rigged safety line on a spool attached to the boat. They navigated the Great Falls and reached the

victim, Public Safety Director Jerry Speziale said. A life jacket and rope harness were put on the victim to pull him back to the catwalk. The man was taken to St. Joseph's Medical Center and listed in stable condition.

DOWNS: A garage portion of a Vliget Dr. home in Hillsborough was heavily involved in fire when the first unit arrived on April 20th, officials said. The fire extended to a room above the garage and a 2nd alarm was struck.

UPS: Thanks to the Bergen County Sheriff's Office Community Release Center (CRC), an access ramp was completed at the home of a Ridgefield Park junior firefighter, 17, who was seriously injured at a recent fire. The CRC at the Bergen County jail offers minimum security inmates a structural alternative to rehabilitation by participating in moderate levels of manual labor for the benefit of the community. PBA Local 134 donated the materials.

DOWNS: A dwelling fire on Nicholas Ct. in Upper Freehold, April 22nd, spread to other structures due to dry brush, officials said. An air tanker from the NJFFS dropped water on the scene to help quell flames, a report said.

UPS: In April, some six weeks after suffering a medical event while battling a forest fire on the Brick-Lakewood border, Firefighter Brian Sauers left Shore Rehabilitation Center, in Brick, to go home. NJFFS member Sauers, 64, was operating at the March 14th

fire, that involved some 167 acres, when he collapsed as the result of a cardiac event, according to his daughter. Sauers, who is a Toms River Fire District 1 chief as well as a firefighter with the state forest fire service, was greeted by dozens of firefighters and medical personnel from the surrounding area, all saluting his release. They then escorted him home where he will continue his rehabilitation. Leaving the hospital facility, Sauers paused to thank Brick Police Officer Anthony Chadwick. When Sauers was stricken, P.O. Chadwick grabbed a defibrillator from his radio car and began chest compressions on the firefighter until Brick EMS personnel took over.

The police officer then escorted the ambulance to the hospital.

DOWNS: A 3-alarm fire at the Sky Top Gardens Apartments in Sayreville, March 24th, destroyed two units and displaced at least two families. Firefighters did rescue a pet bird, according to Fire Chief Anthony Mercado.

UPS: There is a little deli on Lincoln Avenue, down the street from Orange Fire Headquarters in the Little Italy section of the city, that is a popular stop for first responders. The menu at Just Like Nonna's list sandwiches in the name of local organizations. This includes: the Orange FD and PD, West Orange FD, Maplewood FD, Orange Board of Education, NJ Transit and PSE&G. Catering, plus homemade cookies and desserts! www.justlikenonnas1.com

RON JEFFERS

Jersey City firefighters offer Supervising Dispatcher and Gong Club Life Member Greg Prokopenko a final salute on April 14th.

Greg Prokopenko Was Dedicated to the Fire Service He grew up in downtown Jersey City near the old firehouse that was the home of Engine Co. 6 and Truck Co. 2. As a kid, he would hang out at the firehouse, and he developed a love for the fire department. In later years, he would become a supervising dispatcher for the F.D.J.C. Greg Prokopenko passed away in April, due to complications from COVID19.

When he was 17, Prokopenko's family moved to a home in the Heights section of the city, on Liberty Avenue. Living across the street was Fire Captain John Chiusolo, of Engine Co. 11, also located in the Heights. A friendship ensued with the captain and Greg would “buff” at the quarters of Engine 11 and Truck 7 on Lincoln Street.

While living across the street, he met the captain's daughter, Maria, and they began dating in the mid 1980's. The dating led to marriage.

With his continued interest in the fire service, Greg began working with his brother-in-law, Joe Chiusolo, at the Turnout uniform store, a few blocks away from Engine 11's firehouse. There, for about 10-years, he met all sorts of people

JUMP TO FILE #041621114

in the fire, police and medical fields.

In 1999, after the Jersey City Fire Department began hiring civilian dispatchers, Prokopenko left Turnout to start a dream job with his local fire department as a dispatcher.

There, he rose to become a supervisor.

In addition, Greg was a Life Member of the Gong Club. A group of firefighters, police officers and buffs that operate an emergency canteen truck that responds to multiple-alarm fires and other emergencies in the city and most of Hudson County.

The Jersey City Fire Department honored Supervising Dispatcher Prokopenko with a department run funeral procession.

Officers and firefighters lined up in front of the church, on Monmouth Street, with Old Glory above, mounted at the tip of an aerial ladder. Bagpipes played and firefighters offered Prokopenko a final salute.

- RON JEFFERS

RON JEFFERS

Just Like Nonna's menu.

Read more news around New Jersey on our website!

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cescott@valtekinc.com

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

June, 2021

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June, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

When in doubt, keep it simple and put it in a taco!

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

BILL TOMPKINS – WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM

Multiple Homes Damaged in Paterson Third-Alarm PATERSON, NJ - A threealarm fire consumed a home and damaged three others in Paterson on April 25th. The 9-1-1 center began receiving numerous phone calls at about 12:30 A.M. for a fire at 49 William Street.

Police confirmed a working fire and asked the FD to “step it up”.

Fire units arrived and the Deputy Chief transmitted that he could not give a proper size-up due to the heavy volume of fire. The original fire building was a one-and-a-half story frame dwelling, but was now fully involved and starting to collapse. A second-alarm was immediately transmitted. Flames easily spread to the 'B' exposure, a large three-and-a-half story frame OMD. The fire traveled up the outside and took possession of the attic. A thirdalarm was sounded as members worked to contain the flames.

Initial reports of people trapped

JUMP TO FILE #042621113

One of the most popular foods both in the firehouse and my own house is tacos. I mean, if you get a day of the week named after you, you know you’ve made it big. Taco Tuesdays are featured on Fork and Hose Co. almost every week. And rightfully so! They are easily cus-

tomizable depending on what’s in the fridge, what is on sale or just what you feel like eating. A taco can be as complex or as simple as you want it to be. But the reason I love them so much is because a simple taco is almost always better than one with too many ingredients. Keeping it to a few ingredients will let each flavor shine through. Usually I like to stick to a protein, such as chicken, shrimp, pork or steak. Then maybe 2-3 toppings and that’s it; anymore than that and you will have a mess on your hands, literally. Another reason I love tacos, is that they can be

a relatively quick dish to make.

And in this case, shrimp cooks up faster than any other proteins, so the food hits the table in no time.

You could also braise tougher cuts like pork shoulder or beef chuck ahead of time if need be. But with these shrimp tacos we keep it simple with the classic taco ingredients of lime, garlic and cilantro.

And no taco would be complete without hot sauce!

So the next time you are not sure what to make and have to feed the crew quickly, think of these tasty shrimp tacos. You won’t be disappointed!

CILANTRO LIME SHRIMP TACOS Yields 8 Tacos

proved unfounded. Three elevated master streams and multiple handlines were put into operation to hold the flames in check. The original fire building collapsed into a pile of burnt wood. Firefighters worked inside the 'B' exposure and knocked down the fire in the attic.

The 'D' exposure was a concern, but damage was only melted siding. By 2:00 A.M., of the visible fire was extinguished. A small gas fed fire continued to burn until PSE&G was able to turn off the supply.

No serious injuries were reported. PFD investigators, as well as the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office worked to determine a cause.

- BILL TOMPKINS

Ingredients: 1 lb. Shrimp, peeled/deveined/tails removed 1 Lime, zest and juice Handful of fresh cilantro, picked and chopped 1 Garlic clove, chopped Salt, to taste EVOO 8 Corn Tortillas Garnish: Chopped Cilantro, lime wedges and hot sauce Procedure: -In a bowl, combine the shrimp, lime zest and juice, drizzle of EVOO, pinch of salt, chopped garlic and cilantro.

Marinate for 15 minutes.

-While shrimp marinates, toast tortillas over open flame or in a dry pan until brown in spots. Remove and cover with a paper towel.

-In a medium pan over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of EVOO followed by the shrimp. Cook until starting to turn pink, flip and cook until fully pink.

-Remove and assemble tacos with garnishes.

BILL TOMPKINS – WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM

AJ FUSCO

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

June, 2021

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Shop online at www.MidAtlanticRescue.com

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June, 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.

BILL TOMPKINS – WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM

MAYDAY Called at Orange Multiple-Alarm

JOHN M. MALECKY

Members of Irvington’s Engine 42 stand by their new Ferrara pumper. (L to R): FF P. Scurko, LT. P. Donaghy, and FF's D. Zignoli and I. Abdul-Wahid.

ORANGE, NJ - An Orange firefighter escaped serious injury at the scene of a blaze in a multiple dwelling that had been damaged by fire several months earlier.

On April 5th, shortly after 11:00 P.M., Orange fire units responded to 335 Henry Street for a reported fire. A second-alarm was transmitted as heavy fire was showing from the two-story frame vacant multiple dwelling.

Out-of-town companies responded to the scene and to cover the Orange Firehouse.

Members made a push inside, but the poor condition of the structure made operations difficult. A firefighter fell through the weakened second floor, prompting a

JUMP TO FILE #040821101

“Mayday” to be sounded. The firefighter was quickly located and removed, then transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. All members were withdrawn from the building as flames spread throughout the second floor and cockloft.

A third-alarm was called as the fire spread to the exposure 'D' building, a two-and-a-half story occupied frame dwelling. A ladder pipe, a deck gun and ground monitors operated on the original fire building. Companies worked interior on the exposure building as

flames took possession of the attic.

Conditions slowly improved and all visible fire was knocked down in about two hours. As this fire was winding down, several mutual aid companies quickly extinguished a second fire a couple of blocks away in a two-and-a-half story frame. No additional injuries were reported at either blaze. Two days later, a male was arrested for arson for setting both of the Henry Street jobs, plus the house fire.

Fire units from East Orange, Montclair, Irvington, Newark, Maplewood, South Orange, Bloomfield and Cedar Grove worked mutual aid at the scene.

- BILL TOMPKINS

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.

RON JEFFERS

Jersey City 4th Battalion Chief Mike Nickerson, left, checks in with Deputy Chief Joe Menendez after fire companies knocked down a fire in a Bergen Avenue apartment complex, April 2nd.

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RON JEFFERS

While operating at a 2-alarm fire in a large-occupied double "H" shaped apartment building on Bergen Avenue, Jersey City truck companies set up four aerial devices to cover the "A", "B", and "C" sides of the structure. The fire was located in the walls between the 4th and 5th floors and quickly knocked down. The Red Cross assisted residents that were displaced as a result of the April 2nd fire.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

June, 2021

PAGE 17

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June, 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.

In Gloucester County, the Wenonah VFD has in service Utility 1317, a 2009 Ford F250 Super Duty XL pickup with conversion by the fire department. It has a diesel engine, four-wheel-drive and five-seat cab. Inventory and features include a rear towing eye, basic life support equipment, AED, tools, water for rehab, traffic support equipment, cones and flares.

CHRIS TOMPKINS WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM

Second-Alarm Sounded at Bergenfield House Fire BERGENFIELD, NJ - Firefighters battled their second fire in two days as crews battled a bedroom fire on the rainy Sunday afternoon of April 11th.

Bergenfield firefighters were dispatched around 2:15 P.M. for a home filling with smoke at 3 Coyne Ct., and an unknown source of the smoke. While enroute, command updated the address to 33 Coyne Ct., and Chief Naylis arrived on scene with smoke showing from the second floor.

A second-alarm was transmitted as Ladder 1 arrived on scene and entered the building to perform a search as Engine 1 arrived and stretched a one-and-three-

JUMP TO FILE #041121110

quarter inch line through the front door.

During searches, the ladder company located a fire in a second floor bedroom and quickly extinguished it with the first hand line.

A back up line was stretched and additional crews opened up and checked for further extension.

Mutual aid from Dumont, Englewood and New Milford assisted on scene. No injuries were reported, and the fire was under control within an hour.

JOHN M. MALECKY

Wenonah Utility 1317, 2009 Ford F250, Super Duty XL, 4x4 is a pickup with FD conversion. It carries BLS equipment, AED, traffic support equipment and other items.

- CHRIS TOMPKINS

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.

JOHN M. MALECKY

Right/rear view of Wenonah's Utility 1317.

Visit us on web www.1rbn.com RON JEFFERS

Members of Jersey City Ladder Co. 12 back their 2013 E-One Metro model 100-foot rear-mount unit out of Bergen Avenue to return to quarters from a multiple-alarm fire on April 2nd.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

June, 2021

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June, 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

Meadowlands Fire Department Chief of Department Kevin Meehan has been assigned this 2020 Chevy Tahoe.

JOHN A. CALDERONE

Branchville Hose Co. 1 used this 1940 Mack 500-GPM pumper.

RON JEFFERS

The Hackensack Safety Chief unit is a 2020 Chevy Tahoe.

JOHN A. CALDERONE RON JEFFERS

Branchville Hose Co. 1 members also operated this 1957 Ward LaFrance 750-GPM pumper.

This Dodge Durango is a Westfield FD staff car.

RON JEFFERS

Madison Park Utility 411 is a 2012 Chevy Silverado that was originally a chief's vehicle, which is now used by the fire-police.

Valtek, the FiretruckShop.com, provides the highest quality painting and collision work for fire equipment in the NJ/NY metropolitan area. We also have the spray booth, safety equipment and permits you expect. Work is done quickly for a fair price by people that know fire trucks. Nearby at Exit 60 off Route 80. Come see for yourself why over 282 departments have chosen Valtek for their painting and collision needs.

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1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

June, 2021

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June, 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

Members of the Summit FD stand by their new Ferrara pumper. (L to R): FF Brian Davis and BC David Guida.

RON JEFFERS

Hudson Regional Fire Investigator C.J. Gomez, left, and Jersey City Deputy Chief Joe Menendez discuss the 2-alarm fire in a large Bergen Avenue apartment building, April 2nd.

JOHN M. MALECKY

Members of East Orange Ladder 1 stand by their Ferrara rear-mount. (L to R): FF Mark Gaeta, Captain Lamont Muse and FF Hakeem Harvey.

DAMIEN DANIS JOHN M. MALECKY

East Orange Fire Chief Andre Williams stands by their new Quint 2, a Rosenbauer Warrior with 78foot Viper aerial.

Fair Lawn Chief of Department Tom Cearny in command during a general alarm fire on Fair Lawn Ave., April 24th.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

June, 2021

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June, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

Vehicle News

RON JEFFERS

JOHN RIETH

At 1300-hours on March 17th, Paterson Engine Co. 3 Orange Engine Co. 3 has been assigned a 2021 Ferrara went into service with a new Ferrara 1500-GPM/500- 1750-GPM/500-GWT/30-GFT pumper with six-man cab.

GWT/100-gallon Class B foam tank pumper possessing a 188" wheelbase.

Freehold Township 16-1-90 has been assigned a 2020 Pierce Velocity 2000-GPM/280-GWT/20-GFT/100-foot Ascendant model quint. It was sold by Fire & Safety Services.

RON JEFFERS

RON JEFFERS

RON JEFFERS

At Teterboro Airport, the Port Authority of NY & NJ Rescue 52 sports an Oshkosh Striker model 2000-GPM/1500GWT/210 AFFF/500-lbs.

Dry Chem./460-lbs.

Halotron/400-cubic-feet Nitrogen/400-cubic-feet Argon CFR, equipped with a Snozzle 50 boom.

In Middle Twp. District 2, Rio Grande Squad 72 received a 2021 Pierce Enforcer PUC model 1500-GPM/750GWT/30-GFT rescue-pumper. It possesses a Husky 12 Foam System, light tower and seating for seven. It was sold by Fire & Safety Services.

Franklin Lakes Squad 331 is now in service with a 2021 Pierce Enforcer 1500-GPM 750-GWT/Class A 50-GFT rescue-pumper with Husky Foam System. It was sold by Fire & Safety Services.

RON JEFFERS

RON JEFFERS

RON JEFFERS

RON JEFFERS

Lakewood Engine 5 has been assigned a new Pierce En- Lakewood Engine 4 received a 2021 Pierce Enforcer In Old Bridge Twp., Madison Park 408 is a 2020 E-One forcer 1250-GPM pumper with Husky Foam System. It 1250-GPM pumper with Husky Foam System and a six- 1500-GPM/530-GWT model equipped with a 50-foot boom. It was sold by Absolute Fire Protection Co. was sold by Fire & Safety Services. man cab. It was sold by Fire & Safety Services.

Read about more vehicle news around New Jersey on our website!

RON JEFFERS

RON JEFFERS

Allendale Utility 952 has been placed into service with a new Ford F 250 model.

New Jersey Transit Police ESU-9 is one of two new Ford F550/Pierce emergency services trucks to be placed into service. It was sold by Fire & Safety Services.

www.1rbn.com

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

June, 2021

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June, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

How Valuable Do You Think YOU Are? Chaplain's Corner Didymus McHugh

So why are you downhearted?

Do you not feel valued? Do you feel worthless? Do you feel that you are not making the grade? Are you going through stuff that may have you depressed?

I just want to take a minute and tell you how much you mean and are worth.

Mr. Rogers stated that we are so much more than what we do. You may be a child to your parents, a parent to your children, a spouse, member of your house of worship, a talented artist or what have you.

YOU WERE CREATED BY GOD, IN HIS IMAGE and HE LOVES YOU. You are not what other people may say or think. But only God knows your potential and why He put you here.

Do not pay attention to all those people on social media. Do not measure your life according to their posts. They are only putting up what they want others to think is normal for them but it may be the best day that they had in years or it may all be staged with fake smiles. Live your life. You have a life that nobody else can live. It is ____________(fill in your name) life and nobody can ever be ____________(fill in your name) but ____________(fill in your name) Do not pay attention to whoever is putting you down. Many times they are just on a power trip and know that they can push your buttons. Did you ever think that they are the way they are because someone is doing the same to them? Insecure people may become bullies,

no matter their education, or position in life. I feel sorry for them. We need to lift each other up and not put each other down. Hebrews 10:25 states that we should encourage one another. Who is encouraging you? Who are you encouraging?

Many times people put us down because they do not want to see us succeed or they may say they do not want to see us fall. It is through our failures that we learn. There has been plenty times that Thomas Edison failed, when he was working on the light bulb. His comment was basically that he found so many ways that will not create light. Did you know that it took 40 attempts to created WD-40, the lubricant. Can you imagine if they got it right on a different try? We might be using WD-37 or on the first try, WD-1. It's ok to fail, that just becomes a learning moment.

We were all created with unique fingerprints, so why do we try being like someone else. We always measure ourselves short when we try to measure up to someone else, trying to be like them. But did you ever think that others may be trying to measure up to be like you?

Years ago I had someone, who did not know me, tell me that I was not credible. The person had no clue what I do or what my potential was.

I say to myself that I am doing well because I know that God has a different plan for me. God has a special mission for each one of us. You cannot fill my mission and I cannot fill your mission.

You can have that moment to. I have worked with people who have be addicted to drugs and been brought back from the dead a bunch of times but their story is not complete yet. Just look at the people that Christ hung out with and the people that He used for His purposes.

Moses, did not hang out with Christ, had problems speaking and had low confidence, because he wanted to get out of it. Look at Him using tax col-

lectors and talking to societies outcasts. BUT He loved them all.

It may not be the number of times that you fall down. It is the number of times that you get up. You have a mission. Never count yourself out. Rest, regroup and try again.

Remember that whatever you are going through, God is always with you. He sees what is happening and walks alongside you. God created you special and unique for a unique purpose and He loves you.

Associate with those who lift you up and not tear you down. One thing that we teach people is that the people that you associate with is so important. We have those with addictions, get a new phone number and become very picky about the phone numbers that go into it. You get the new phone number because you do not want the wrong influencers calling and possibly harassing you. Years ago a wise friend told me that you are the books that you read and the people that you associate with, so be very selective.

If you are having a challenge, do not give up. Ask for help, from those who know how to get you unstuck.

Proverbs talks a lot about seeking counsel. Make sure that you seek counsel from wise people and not knuckleheads. You do not want advice from the three stooges. Speak to the experts in the field. People who actually have credentials from doing what you are having challenges with.

If you need a heart operation, do not ask your electrician for his medical advice.

You may be of a different religion than I am but you were made unique and for a specific reason, that may never be revealed to you. YOU are loved by the ONE who created you!

Stay safe, Didymus McHugh didymus-mchugh.com

BILL TOMPKINS – WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM

Potential at Bergenfield Blaze Brings Large Mutual Aid Response BERGENFIELD, NJ - Flames struck three businesses and threatened to spread to more in the downtown business district of Bergenfield on April 10th. Numerous mutual aid units were called into the scene to assist if needed, but companies were able to hold the stubborn fire, keeping the damage to a minimum.

The Bergenfield Fire Department was out responding to two relatively minor incidents at about 1:45 P.M. when a report of smoke was received at 8 Bedford Avenue.

Police units confirmed the smoke condition as companies responded. Flames were visible from a window in the rear of 66 S. Washington Avenue, and smoke was showing from the roof.

The fire building was a onestory taxpayer, approximately 100-years-old, housing five businesses that were attached on the 'B' side to additional retail establishments with apartments above.

Additional alarms were transmit-

JUMP TO FILE #041321115

ted quickly due to the potential of the flames traveling through the common cockloft and then possibly further. The stores on the ground floor were closed or under renovation and had to be forced to gain access. Two saws were brought to the roof and several cuts were made. Multiple ceilings made access to the cockloft from beneath difficult.

It took about one-and-a-half hours to control the blaze. Three businesses were damaged. Several others suffered smoke and water damage. There were no reported injuries. The cause is under investigation, but one possibility was workers were doing roof work earlier in the day. An estimated 125 firefighters from about 12 departments were at the scene.

- BILL TOMPKINS

BILL TOMPKINS – WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

June, 2021

PAGE 27

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PAGE 28

June, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

Long Valley Rescues Injured Hiker at Hacklebarney State Park WASHINGTON TWP., NJ - On March 30th, the Long Valley First Aid Squad was alerted for BLS and Rescue Services to Hacklebarney State Park for an injured hiker.

Responding BLS and Rescue Services units, with assistance from Washington Twp. PD, were JUMP TO FILE# quickly able to locate 041321113 the injured party on the Orange Trail, approximately a half mile into the park on rocky terrain. EMS crews treated the victim while Rescue Services determined that the safest method to transport the patient off the rocky terrain was by utilizing a Cascade Rescue Litter Wheel.

Rescue personnel were able to transport the patient to a more accessible trail where they were loaded on Long Valley Rescue-3, a 2010 Polaris Ranger 6x6 with a Kimtek Medlite transport body, to be quickly and safely transported to awaiting Long Valley EMS-2.

Initial dispatch to the patient transferred was just under one hour.

Also assisting at the scene were Fairmount Fire Co. and the New Jersey State Park Police.

- MICHAEL CUCCARO

LONG VALLEY FIRST AID SQUAD

Long Valley First Aid Squad Rescue Services members on scene with Long Valley Rescue-3.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

June, 2021

PAGE 29

Bob Long

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.

MIKE NOWACKI

Goodwill Hose Company, located in Belmar, recently put into service Engine 87-3-76, a 2018 Seagrave FASTrack 1500/750 Engine. It will replace a 1989 Hahn engine that originally served with Middletown Fire Department in New Jersey.

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PAGE 30

June, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

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

On March 19th, Beachwood FD members received training in the use of pet oxygen masks. The mask kit and training were donated

by First Aid & CPR LLC, through the generosity of Tito's Handmade Vodka, the Purr 'N Pooch Foundation for Animals, and public donations. First Aid & CPR LLC are offering free pet rescue kits and training to firefighters throughout New Jersey. We thank them and their sponsors for this equipment and training.

BEACHWOOD VFD

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www.1RBN.com

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

June, 2021

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June, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

Engines & Other Apparatus of the Milwaukee Fire Department

ON THE BOOK SHELF

by John Malecky

Engines and Other Apparatus of the Milwaukee Fire Department An Illustrated History By Wayne Mutza Available from: FSP Books & Videos 433 Main Street Hudson, MA, 01749 1-800-522-8528 EMail: support@fire-policee m s . c o m www.fire-police-ems.com Price: $49.95 This book is soft cover and has 310 pages within 11 chapters.

The author is a retired member of the Milwaukee Fire Department. I actually met him in 1977 when he gave a talk at fire headquarters to a group of fire buffs who were attending their convention in the city. He reminded me of myself that is a young firefighter devoted

to the job! This book was compiled by a full page of acknowledgements of equally dedicated people who contributed to not only a full range of Milwaukee apparatus but a history of it. If there is anything missing in this book it is because it simply was not available when the publication was put together! Of the 11 chapters, the first dealt of course with apparatus manually pulled by the brute strength of individuals. The second chapter, “Horsepower” address just that. The utilization of horses to pull apparatus was partly due to the dwindling ranks of manpower to respond. On page 21, however is a second sized, self propelled engine being driven down a street with heavy smoke coming from its stack. For a number of reasons it did not last more than about two years and I invite you to read why. They are interesting! This chapter covers water towers and fireboats but before it ends on page 48 but on page 47 there is a photo of a sleigh which apparently were abundant in the fire department and were utilized when steam fire engines could not get through. The hose they carried were connected directly to hy-

drants. Before this chapter is finished I should mention the Buestrin escape ladder which was 95 feet in length. It was designed by the man of that name and there is an impressive photo of it in the chapter. According to what is written it was never utilized to its full potential. However in Chapter three is a story of its own about “Maggie”, a rear mounted wooden aerial build by the German company, Magirus. When the chief at the time learned about it he travelled to the town that owned one (Gary Indiana) and ended up ordering one. In 1977 when I first went to Milwaukee I was at the private museum of Keith Franz, an active Milwaukee buff and he had the aerial in storage minus the truck. There is insufficient room to write about the value of this book to apparatus buffs and historians to name a few. I can only say it ispacked with black and white photos of all kinds of apparatus including those that were operated by specialized departments and also the last chapter which has MFD apparatus which ended up after being retired. In short, to anyone interested in apparatus, this is one for your library!

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.

RON JEFFERS

The Port Authority of New York & New Jersey Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting patch.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

June, 2021

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1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

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Garbage Truck Fire Quickly Contained in East Rutherford EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ On April 21st at 11:30 A.M., the East Rutherford Fire Department was sent to Morton Street on a report of one of the town's garbage JUMP TO FILE# trucks on fire.

Upon the fire de- 042221102 partment's arrival, the driver dumped the contents of the garbage out on the ground, helping to save the truck itself from catching on fire.

Just after extinguishing that fire, they were dispatched to Rte. 17 and Union Ave. on a report of a car fire.

- JAMES WOOD, SR.

JAMES WOOD, SR.

PAGE 36

June, 2021

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1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

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1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

Pumpers Built for Quick Delivery Through the years there have been fire departments both paid and volunteer who have been financially wealthy as well as financially hurting!

In order to help these poorer departments many manufacturers have introduced to the market a number of pumpers in particular that would be called “entry level”, meaning built with limited features and options.

Some would be demos but in some cases demos were built with a number of options to be both attractive and useful to departments. Others would be described as being built on “speculation”, meaning that they would be completed and offered in the hope that a customer would find interest in it at a reasonable price. In any event it has been observed that more and more manufacturers are now offering pumpers that would be built with limited options and available within a short time, namely six to eight months, depending on the brand. Most have new model names while at least one uses an existing model that can be modified to meet different budgets.

We have made an attempt this month to introduce some new models, as well as name others that have been around for a while. It is not our intention to put one manufacturer or dealer against another. We are only naming what is out there, and you the reader can decide which brand you would like to know more about. Each has many specs and claims that are available.

There is actually too much for this column to hold so we refer you to the respective manufacturer websites. The Spartan ER, S-180 built on a Metro Star chassis was the only one that this column had come across so far, and that is in service at the Jacobstown Fire Company in North Hanover Township (Burlington County). This pumper appeared in the March, 2019 column. The “180” indicated the number of days in six months. So here we go: within the other members of REV Group are Ferrara (the Invader), KME (the X-Series) and E-ONE (The AFT Series). Seagrave has the Fastrack and Rosenbauer has the Rapid Response Quick Delivery Pumper Series. HME has the Silver Fox Series, some of which are vehicles already built or in production and can be modified for 30 day delivery. Many of Pierce’s Florida Saber Model products do offer quick delivery, but there is no other specific quick delivery series. However if a department is in the “Build My Pierce” program and their requirements coincide with it, then the pumper would be completed by as little as 6-7 months.

Sutphen Corporation has no quick delivery model per se, but offers demos for timely delivery. I just reiterate that the quick delivery concept we write about at this time is not about demos, but there is a fine between them and all manufacturers mentioned here have them of not only pumpers but mini-pumpers, aerials, rescues, etc. The sure way of getting any questions the reader may have is to log onto the respective websites. In the photos this month are two apparatus 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

Hightstown L-41, 2016 E-ONE Cyclone, 2000 270/30, 137-feet. It has a 10 kw generator. It was sold by Absolute Fire Protection.

JOHN M. MALECKY

Laureldale RE-33, 2018 Pierce Enforcer 2000/100020 with 10 kw generator and 9,000 pound portable winch. It was sold by Fire & Safety Services.

JOHN M. MALECKY

McCabe Ambulance of Bayonne, Med-7, 2020 Ford E-350/AEV Fleethawk. It was sold by VCI Emergency Vehicle Specialists.

JOHN M. MALECKY

Laureldale F-18-39, 2012 Kenworth T-800/U.S. Tanker 500/3500.

JOHN M. MALECKY

Bordentown City L-6015, 2018 Pierce Pierce Enforcer 2000/500/107-foot Ascendant aerial. It has a 6 kw generator. It was sold by Fire & Safety Services.

JOHN M. MALECKY

Edison Township Truck 2, 2019 Spartan Gladiator/LTC 93-foot. It has a 10 kw generator. It was sold by Campbell Supply Co., LLC.

from Laureldale in Hamilton Township (Atlantic County). One is a Pierce pumper and the other a Kenworth/U.S. Tanker elliptical tanker. The name, U.S .Tanker, has been retired now that it is part of Spartan ER. Edison’s second Spartan ER/LTC platform is also shown. Now both of the truck companies have platforms. Two Pierce quints are featured, one in Bordentown (Burlington County) and the other in Monroe Township (Middlesex County). An AEV Type III ambulance for McCabe Ambulance Service in Bayonne (Hudson County) is next, and finally the second generation of Hightstown’s E-ONE 1, 137-foot rearmount aerial. Hightstown still stands as the only fire department owning the

highest aerial in the state. The original story as I heard it (whether true or not) was that they purchased the first 135foot ladder, a 1989, in order to be able to reach the roof of a certain building from the street.

In dealer news, Absolute Fire Protection has received an order from Pine Beach (Ocean County) for an E-ONE mini-pumper on a Ford F-550 chassis.

It will have a Hale DSD 1250-GPM pump and a 300-gallon water tank.

Firefighter One has delivered three Ferrara apparatus to the Mt. Laurel Fire Department in Burlington County.

One is a pumper on a Cinder chassis.

It has an extended aluminum body, Hale Qmax 150-2000 GPM pump, 750-gallon water and two 20-gallon

JOHN M. MALECKY

Monroe Township (Middlesex County) L-23, 2019 Pierce Velocity 2000/500/30/107-foot Ascendant aerial. It has an 8 kw generator. It was sold by Fire & Safety Services.

foam tanks, a Hale Smart Foam 5.0 system and a Class 1 Ultra View Smartfoam controller. The other two are HD-77 aerial quints on Inferno chassis. They also have extruded aluminum bodies and the same pump and foam tank capacities and foam system.

They have 500-gallon water tanks.

Fire & Safety Services has made the following Pierce deliveries: in Bergen County, an Enforcer heavy duty rescue with non-walk-in body to Closter and an Enforcer pumper to Franklin Lakes.

The Wayside FC in Tinton Falls (Monmouth County) received an Impel pumper, the Rio Grande FC in Middle Township (Cape May County) received an Enforcer PUC pumper. The Readington FC in Readington Township (Hunterdon County) received a Velocity 100-foot mid-mount platform, Union Township (Union County) received a stock Arrow XT pumper and the NJ Transit Police (Essex County) received two light duty rescues on Ford F-550 chassis.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

June, 2021

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June, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ