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DAMEN MMS RIDGEFIELD, NJ - A spectacular overnight fire broke out shortly before 2:30 A.M. on March 6th in Ridgefield that destroyed a 125-year-old structure at 850 Broad Avenue (Route 9). As units were dispatched, they were already being notified that the former Tottle Inn was completely involved. See full story on page 12

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May, 2024

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

JOHN RIETH

Ex-Morganville, NJ Fire Dept. 1990 Mack RD/4 Guys Tenderpumper. It has a 1000-gpm pump and 3500-gallon tank.

CHRIS TOMPKINS WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM

Teaneck B a ttle s 2nd Alarm House Fire TEANECK, NJ - Firefighters were called to a reported house fire Monday evening, March 4th, around 8:40 PM., at 147 East For­ est Ave. Battalion Chief 1 arrived on scene and reported heavy fire in the rear of a two-and-a-half-story frame and transmitted a second-alarm on arrival. Squad 23 arrived and stretched an initial attack line as Truck 2 arrived and conducted searches.

Englewood and Eiackensack ar­ rived on scene and assisted Teaneck firefighters with making an interior attack, however little progress was made and command ordered every­ one to evacuate the structure and move to a defensive attack. Multi­ ple exterior handlines were put into operation to knock down the heavy

fire in the rear. Command ordered units to switch to an interior attack to knock down the remaining fire. Mutual aid from Bogota, Ridgefield Park and Bergenfield as­ sisted on scene chasing pockets of fire throughout the house. The fire was brought under control in about one hour. No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

JOHN RIETH

Members train on the new-to-them 1990 Mack, ex-Morganville Mack.

- CHRIS TOMPKINS

JOHN RIETH

Hope Fire Co.'s new-to-them 1990 Mack RD, is next to their 1988 Mack R 6000-gallon tractor-trailer tender.

Morganville F.D. Donates Apparatus to Hope Fire Co.

CHRIS TOMPKINS WWW.BTFIREPH0T0S.COM

The Morganville Fire Depart­ ment has recently donated their 1990 Mack RD/4Guys Tender Pumper to the Eiope Fire Co. of Upper Freehold Township, and Allentown, NJ. Tender 28-3-96 had a 1000gpm pump and a 3500-gallon tank, and was equipped with a 4000-gallon drop tank. It was originally operated by the Mor­ ganville Independent Fire Co., and by 2018 it was operated by the newly established Morganville Fire Dept. The Mack was in great shape and will be an asset to the members of Elope Fire Co. This award-winning apparatus collected more than 50 awards in

Jump to file #031224107

#4 the past 11 years! It participated in parades and musters throughout New Jersey and New York. Recently, Elope Fire Co. held a training session to get ac­ quainted with the new-to-them tender, along with other local fire departments including Millstone FD, Jacobsville Fire Co., and New Egypt Fire Co. Morganville has a new Rosenbauer Pumper-Tender on order, with delivery expected in 2024. - JOHN RIETH

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

May, 2024

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May, 2024

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

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Quick Knock Down at Saddle Brook Fire BILL TOMPKINS - WWW .BTFIREPHOTOS.COM SADDLE BROOK, NJ - Saddle Brook Firefighters doused an overnight fire in a building behind a Route 46 Mexican restau­ rant on March 13th. Just before 3:00 A.M., companies were dispatched to 304 9th St. on a reported fire. As companies ar­ rived, they found smoke coming from the ceiling of the onestory building behind Taqueria Los Giieros, and had the flames knocked down in under 15 minutes. No injuries were reported. Mutual Aid included firefighters from Elmwood Park, Rochelle Park and Wallington. Members of the Saddle Brook Volunteer Ambulance Corps also responded. The Township Fire Prevention Office is investigating the cause, which could be an electrical fire in a wall that had extended into a void space.

A mid-day fire caused significant damage to a front porch and sun room of a Wood-Ridge home on March 5th. Heavy fire was venting out of the front of the recently sold home at 271 North Ave. A sec­ ond-alarm was transmitted as crews made a push and soon had the heavy fire knocked down. The structure was unoccupied at the time and the doors were all closed, keeping any fire spread to a minimum. The cause is under investigation.

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CORPORATE INFORM ATION 1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New Jersey edition - Vol. 31 No. 5 - is published monthly, 12 times a year for $48 per year by Belsito Communications, Inc., 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. Periodicals Postage Paid at Newburgh, NY and additional mailing offices. Postmas­ ter: Send address changes to 1st Responder News, 1 Ard­ more 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 o f reprinting that part o f the ad which was omitted or in error. Omissions or errors must be brought to the at­ tention o f the newspaper during the same month o f publi­ cation. Printed in Canada. A division of:

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Hasbrouck Heights Makes Quick Work of Fire in Wall HASBROUCK HEIGHTS, NJ - On March 12th at 9:00 A.M., Hasbrouck Heights FD, under the command of Chief Mike Greco, responded to a reported fire at 381 Church St. The chief reported a working fire in the first-floor wall of a twostory garden apartment building. Mutual Aid at the scene was received from Wood Ridge and Carlstadt. The fire was quickly knocked down, and there was no extension.

RON JEFFERS Bergen County firefighters battled a fire that involved the attic of a Grove Avenue dwelling in Maywood, March 24th, that displaced the occupants. Local firefighters were assisted by units from Rochelle Park, Hackensack, Saddle Brook, Lodi and River Edge, at the scene.

May, 2024

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

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1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

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1 Aidmore Street • New Windsor, NY 12553 845-534-7500 • (Fax) 845-534-0055 • News@1stResponderNews.com

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In memory of those who gave all

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

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COLUMNISTS R ic k B illin g s (Cartoon) B o b L o n g (Cartoon) John M aleck y (Apparatus, Bookshelf) D id y m u s M cH u g h (Chaplain’s Corner)

Kentucky: Joseph Back, 59 Rank: Assistant Chief Incident Date: October 27, 2023 Death Date: October 30, 2023 Fire Department: Whitesburg Fire Department Initial Summary: On Friday, Oct. 27, 2023, Assistant Chief Joseph Back responded to the scene of a medical emergency at a residence. While at the scene, he suf­ fered a massive heart attack. He was immediately trans­ ported to the local hospital where he remained in a coma until his passing on Monday, Oct. 30, 2023.

F ern an d o V illic a n a (Chaplain’s Corner)

CORRESPONDENTS Keith Addie • Adam Alberti • Bill Auth • David Burns • John W Carr • Steven Catena • Don Colarusso • Robert Connell • Damien Danis • Joseph Diehl • Doug Fenichel • Joseph Getsinger • Alan Hoffman • Todd Hollritt • Richard Huff • Roman Isaryk Jr. • Bob Krane • Nicholas Lenczyk • Chuck Lowe • Justin Mattes • Richard Maxwell • Pete Monaco • Judson Moore • Sylvie Mulvaney • Mike Nowacki • Mar­ tin Pelta • Anthony Razzano • Lucas Richardson • John Rieth • Frank Robinson • EJ Rode • Bob Sherman Jr. • Ken Snyder • Conni Spellman • Charlie Tentas • Bill Tompkins • Chris Tompkins • Justin Watrel • Eugene Weber Jr. • James Wood Sr.

__________ EDITORIAL INFORMATION__________ Join our team o f correspondents or columnists! 1st Responder Newspaper welcomes submissions by our readers. Send stories and photos to us at 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. Or, give us a call or send us an e-mail. I f using the mail, please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for all submissions you wash to have returned. Publisher reserves the right to refuse any editorial or advertising material submitted.

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GRAPHIC DESIGN/MARKETING 1st Responder News’ graphics team wall work with you on your adver­ tisement free o f charge. Addition­ ally, we offer a complete marketing department for all o f your printed communications, Inc. needs. Whether they are posters, or single sheet handouts, full color or black and white, no one else deliv­ ers the high quality work at our competitive prices. As a newspaper in the Belsito Communications Inc. family, 1st Responder News has a state-of-the-art production facility which utilizes the latest scan­ ning technology available. Materials are processed using Power Macintosh G4s. O utput is handled on our HP Color LaserJet 8500 to produce this highest quality black and white or color prints on the market.

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Indiana: David Phelps, 74 Rank: District Chief Incident Date: November 2, 2023 Death Date: November 2, 2023 Fire Department: Prairieton Fire Department Initial Summary: On Thursday, Nov. 2, 2023, District Chief David Phelps was at the scene of a residential fire, where he was found deceased inside a fire apparatus from an apparent heart attack. Kentucky: Thomas Petschke, Jr., 53 Rank: Fire Sergeant Incident Date: November 11,2023 Death Date: November 11, 2023 Fire Department: Ballardsville Fire & Rescue Initial Summary: On Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023, Fire Ser­ geant Thomas Petschke, Jr. was at the scene of a residen­ tial fire that had expanded into the woods. While battling the brush fire, he collapsed from an apparent heart at­ tack. He was immediately treated and transported to the local hospital where he later passed away. Illinois: Andrew "Drew" B. Price, 39 Rank: Firefighter/EMT Incident Date: November 13, 2023 Death Date: November 13,2023 Fire Department: Chicago Fire Department Initial Summary: On Monday, Nov. 13, 2023, fire­ fighters responded to a fire in a four-story building. The building houses the Lincoln Station Bar and Restaurant on the ground floor and apartments on the

upper floors. Firefighter/EMT Andrew "Drew” B. Price was on the roof opening up holes for ventilation when he fell through a skylight shaft. A mayday was called and Firefighter Price was immediately located; however, they needed to breach a wall to reach him. After being rescued, he was immediately rushed to the Illinois Masonic Hospital where he later died from the injuries he sustained in the fall. West Virginia: Ronald "Ron" Maurice Strosnider, 75 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: October 20, 2023 Death Date: October 20,2023 Fire Department: Capon Valley Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: On Friday, Oct. 20, 2023, Firefighter Ronald "Ron” Maurice Strosnider responded to a med­ ical emergency at a residence. While on scene, he be­ came ill and was taken home by fire department personnel. Later in the day 9-1-1 was called to his house. While being transported to the hospital, he went into cardiac arrest and passed away. Texas: John Norris, 55 Rank: Chief Incident Date: November 25,2023 Death Date: November 25, 2023 Fire Department: Forest Bend Fire Department Initial Summary: On Saturday, Nov. 25, 2023, Chief John Norris responded to a structure fire at an aban­ doned house that was scheduled for demolition within the next few weeks. Shortly after returning home, he suffered a heart attack. 9-1-1 was immediately called and he was transported to the HCA Houston Healthcare Clear Lake Hospital where he died a short time later. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

May, 2024

PAGE 7

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May, 2024

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

NJ FIREFIGHTERS SALUTE TWO BROTHERS THAT PERFORMED SEARCH & RESCUE OPERATIONS AT THE WORLD TRADE CENTER UPS & DOWNS Notes from Ron Jeffers

In March, firefighters from vari­ ous jurisdictions paid last respects to two dedicated firefighters who loved their jobs and were part of the World Trade Center 9-1-1 search and rescue teams. They both suc­ cumbed to cancer. On March 26th, Paterson and area firefighters assembled at St. John's Cathedral to pay their respects to ac­ tive city Firefighter Rob “Bobby” Allen. Allen was appointed to the P.F.D. in 1992. His last assignments were the Chiefs Office and Engine Co. 7. Firefighter Allen was a long­ time master of ceremonies at Fire Department events. Firefighter Allen held many elected seats in the Paterson Fire­ fighters Association, including pres­ ident, 1997-1998. He was a state executive, 2014-2015, and Chair­ man of the Legislative Committee for the state FMBA. He was known to have helped shape countless pieces of legislation impacting thousands of career fire­ fighters and retirees. Firefighter Allen was also known for his dedication and for being cool and calm both on the fire ground and in the firehouse. Also, for his knowledge, good nature and sense of humor. “His dedication and advocacy have undoubtedly saved lives and made a lasting impact on the fire­ fighting community in New Jersey and beyond,” Bill Pascrell, 9th Dis­

trict of New Jersey. On March 28th, firefighters gath­ ered at Greenville Memorial Home to pay their respects to retired Jersey City Firefighter Wayne Taylor. Fire­ fighter Taylor was a member of the FDJC from 1982 to 2011. He retired out of Rescue Co. 1, as the unit's senior man. After the 9-1-1 attacks, he was part of the rescue operations team with fellow Jersey City firefighters at the World Trade Center, in multi­ ple operational periods. During his retirement, he developed multiple WTC related cancers and passed away on March 18th. Firefighter Taylor loved his job, and he was a sort of department his­ torian. He had a large photo collec­ tion of firefighters and city apparatus, that he would post on Facebook. On a gloomy and rainy March 28th morning, city firefighters and apparatus lined up at the Farrier Monument in Lincoln Park as the funeral procession passed, with fire­ fighters saluting the popular and well-liked member of the Fire De­ partment. UPS: Bayonne Energy, in con­ junction with Guardian Foundation, recently donated a drone for use by Bayonne public safety personnel. It has thermal image ability, a power­ ful zoom camera and allows “livestream” of drone footage to police, fire and EMS personnel directly to their smartphones, according to Tap into Bayonne. DOWNS: One person was dis­ covered dead due to a fire involving an abandoned Mercer St. dwelling in Paterson, Feb. 29th, officials said. Firefighters encountered a heavy fire condition when they arrived. UPS: In March, Mark Keller was

BOB CONNELL Paterson and area firefighters salute the ashes of city Firefighter Robert "Bobby" Allen at his funeral on March 26th.

RON JEFFERS Jersey City firefighters offer Firefighter Wayne Taylor a final salute during his funeral procession on March 28th.

promoted to fire lieutenant in Hack­ ensack. DOWNS: Two people died as the result of a multiple-alarm fire at a two-story garden apartment complex on Spruce St. in Passaic, March 3rd. The Red Cross assisted ten other dis­ placed occupants, according to NJ.com. UPS: The state recently an­ nounced the award of $20 million in America Rescue Plan Firefighter Grants to fire departments across New Jersey to ensure firefighters have proper protective, cleaning and sanitation equipment. The Depart­ ment of Community Affairs awarded grants to 353 departments after a competitive application process. DOWNS: Fire engulfed a large warehouse on Sykes Lane in Mon­ roe Twp. (Gloucester County) that area firefighters battled for several hours to contain, March 7th, accord­ ing to WCAU-TV. UPS: The City of Long Branch opened its new Fire & History Mu­ seum at die former Olive Byron fire­ house. The Oliver Byron Hose Co. 2was organized in 1890. It was named after famous Broadway stage actor and city resident, Oliver D. Byron, who made a large donation to the newly formed fire company, ac­ cording to The Link news. DOWNS: Three adults and two children were displaced due to a fire at their W. 42nd St. home in Bay­ onne, March 13th. It took nearly six hours to extinguish. According to Chief Keith Weaver, the fire was dif­ ficult to put out as firefighters dealt with obstacles, including stored am­ munition in die adic and solar panels

on the roof. He added that firefight­ ers had to evacuate the attic and go into defensive operations in order to keep everyone safe. UPS: In Toms River, firefighters rescued two pet cats as a fire in­ volved the second-floor of a Bergen av. home, in March. Units from East Dover Fire Co. 4, Toms River Co. 2 and the Island Heights Fire Depart­ ment were called to the scene, ac­ cording to Shore News Network. DOWNS: One resident and one firefighter were injured in a dwelling fire on West Scott av. in Rahway, March 11th. The fire started in the basement and extended to the upper floors of the home through void spaces, officials said. UPS: The Hasbrouck Heights F.D. announced that the department will receive a $52,000 in NJ DC A Amer­ ican Rescue Plan Firefighter Grant Program funds. The money will be used to support the purchase of bailout systems for its members. DOWNS: Two firefighters were taken to JFK Medical Center with minor injuries as the result of a fire in a South Second St. home in Plainfield, Feb. 24th, according to Tap into Plainfield. UPS: Florham Park Firefighter Dave Tappen is celebrating 55-years of service with his volunteer fire de­ partment and service to the commu­ nity. Tappen was the Chief of Department from 1993 to 1998. DOWNS: One man was found dead in an Asbury Avenue dwelling in Ocean City, March 13th, that was on fire. According to the Ocean City Patch, smoke was showing from the second-floor of the home. The fire

was extinguished quickly. First re­ sponders found the man on the sec­ ond-floor landing of an outside staircase, officials said. They did not say how he died. UPS: In March, the East Ruther­ ford Fire Department, along with Mayor Lahullier and the Borough Council, recognized volunteer Fire­ fighter John Giancaspro, Sr., for his 41-years of service to the commu­ nity, upon his retirement. DOWNS: Residents of a President St. building, in Passaic, felt the structure starting to shake, and everyone got out. The building par­ tially collapsed, March 14th. Dozens of people were inside. People in the first-floor restaurant also heard a loud noise and shaking, and they got out, according to WCBS-TV. Con­ struction officials were investigating the partial collapse. Mayor Lora said the building is old and experienced a fire years ago. In addition, recent heavy rains and strong winds could have been a factor. UPS: Brian Hamois has been pro­ moted to battalion chief in Summit. Brian Tavis is the fire department's new lieutenant. DOWNS: Several residents of a Cedar PI. dwelling, in Hawthorne, were displaced due to a fire on March 18th. Two occupants were treated for smoke. Crews were evac­ uated from the building briefly after multiple collapses occurred in the back of the structure, according to News 12. - CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

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May, 2024

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May, 2024

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

ALL IN THE FAMILY

Ups & Downs

If you have photos you would like to see in our All In The Family feature, please upload them on C o n tin u e d fr o m P n g e 8

UPS: John Dufour has been ap­ pointed to the Jackson Fire Depart­ ment. DOWNS: Three people were in­ jured due to a fire in a Pine St. dwelling in Willingboro, March 20th. One person had to jump from a second-story window and suffered a leg injury, according to WPVITV. UPS: Tyler Kidd has been ap­ pointed to the Summit Fire Depart­ ment. DOWNS: A fire raced through a duplex dwelling on West 3rd St. in Florence Twp., March 24th. Flames spread to a home next door, accord­ ing to FOX 29. One person was taken to a local hospital for smoke inhalation. UPS: Members of the Franklin Volunteer Fire Company and Franklin Twp. police responded to a call of a dog stuck in a tire rim, in March. Fire officials said they ini­ tially tried using soap and water to free Daisy, but it did not work. Lt. Brandon Volpe, along with help from fellow first responders, used a plasma cutter to free the dog from the tire, according to News 12. The dog was not injured. DOWNS: A Lithium-Ion battery from an electric bicycle caused a fire at a Schindler Terrace apartment building in Bridgewater on March 26th, according to the Bridgewater Patch. Two people were taken to Robert Wood Johnson Flospital for evaluation. UPS: The Cranford Fire Depart­ ment has been awarded $40,000 from the American Rescue Plan

0Ur we^s^6, www-lstResPonderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNevvs.com.

(ARP) Firefighter Grant that will help fund six sets of turnout gear. Public Safety Commissioner Paul Gallo praised Fire Chief Dan Czeh and Battalion Chief Matt Lubin on putting the grant together. DOWNS: A fire raced through an Oradell Avenue home, in Oradell, displacing a family on March 28th. Local firefighters were assisted by units from River Edge, Westwood and Emerson. Fire Chief Terry Moran said firefighters were able to save two pet cats. UPS: William Donnelly was pro­ moted to Fire Warden of the NJ For­ est Fire service during a ceremony held at Coyle Field, in Woodlawn Twp., March 21st. Fie became the 15th chief of the state forest service which was established on July 4, 1906, according to Pine Barrens Tribune. DOWNS: On March 23rd, South Bound Brook Deputy Fire Chief Craig Konkle, 54, answered a call for an overturned motor vehicle. Later in the day. Chief Konkle suf­ fered a sudden acute medical emer­ gency and, despite life-saving measures, he died in the Line-ofDuty. The chief was a member of the SBBFD since 2013. Fie was a Somerset County 200 Club Valor Award recipient for a lifesaving res­ cue performed in 2017. UPS: In March, the Fairview Fire Department recognized members for the years of service. This in­ cluded: John Pinzone for 50-years, Patrick Cordasco for 46-years, Patrick Buglione for 46-years, and Dennis Licameli for 46-years.

RON JEFFERS Cliffside Park Firefighter Pete O'Connor, left, teamed up with his son, Tyler, a Ridgefield firefighter, at a recent mutual aid fire in the son's borough.

DAMIEN DANIS In March, the Borough of Fairview recognized municipal workers for their accomplishments. This included four volunteer firefight­ ers for their years of service.

RON JEFFERS Leonia Chief of Department John Dunn, Sr., and his son Jack, Jr., worked together at a recent mutual aid fire.

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

May, 2024

PAGE 11

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May, 2024

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

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@l stResponderNews.com.

DAMIEN DANIS BILL TOMPKINS - WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM Responding into Ridgefield on March 6th on mutual aid, Cliffside Park Ladder 1, a 2011 Pierce 100' tiller, is prepared to add another elevated aerial stream if needed.

BILL TOMPKINS - WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM Ridgefield Engine 3, a 2001 Pierce Quantum, supplies several lines as fire consumes an over 100-year-old structure in the Borough on March 6th. Engine 3 has a 2000-GPM pump, a 750-gallon water tank, and a 40-gallon foam tank.

Ridgefield Former Inn Destroyed in Overnight Fatal Fire RIDGEFIELD, NJ - A spectac­ ular overnight fire broke out shortly before 2:30 A.M. on March 6th in Ridgefield that destroyed a 125year-old structure at 850 Broad Av­ enue (Route 9). As units were dispatched, they were already being notified that the former Tottle Inn was completely involved. Battalion Chief Scott Russo ar­ rived, confirmed the building was fully involved and instituted an ex­ terior attack. He transmitted a sec­ ond-alarm, bringing mutual aid companies to the scene. The build­ ing, a large two-and-a-half-story former inn, sat at the comer of Broad and Maple Avenues sur­ rounded by trees, and was set back off the street.

Jump to file #030624106

A As lines went into operation, within a short time, the entire struc­ ture collapsed. Master streams from ladder pipes from Ridgefield and Leonia, along the Ridgefield En­ gine 3's deck gun contained the fire. Exposures were evacuated, and the buildings suffered minor heat dam­ age. Mutual aid operating at the scene included Cliffside Park, Fairview, Leonia, Palisade Park, Englewood Cliffs, and Ridgefield Park. Cover companies came from Teaneck, Englewood and Carlstadt. Rehab services were provided by

County Wide. The fire was declared under control around 4:00 A.M. No in­ juries were immediately reported. A body was found in the mbble later on that day as officials searched the remains of the building during the investigation. The Bergen County Prosecutor' office arson squad was on the scene. News 12 NJ reported by those in the neighborhood that squatters were known to use the old house for shelter. The house, once known as the Toddle Inn, sat aban­ doned for several years. According to the Ridgefield mayor, the prop­ erty was scheduled to be redevel­ oped in the near future. - DAMIEN DANIS

BILL TOMPKINS - WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM Palisades Park Engine 2, a 2007 Pierce with a 2000-GPM pump, a 750-gallon tank, and 40-gallons of foam, works at the scene of a three-alarm fire in neighboring Ridgefield on March 6th.. DAMIEN DANIS

1STResponder Newspaper - NJ

May, 2024

PAGE 13

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May, 2024

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

Fire & S afety S ervices is H ittin g th e Road in 2024! Fire & Safety Services is hitting the road in 2024! After nearly 40 amaz­ ing years of displaying at Wild­ wood, Fire & Safety will host 3 “Road Rallies” in different parts of the state instead of participating in the New Jersey Firemen’s Expo in September 2024. The 2024 F&SS Road Rally will bring the show TO customers, pro­ viding a customer-centric and re­ gion-centric focus on apparatus that best represents the conditions those regions have. The three micro­ shows will create a more interactive and dynamic setting for customers and people exploring apparatus op­ tions across Fire & Safety Services’ brands. “We are excited by this new oppor­ tunity to provide the emergency

O

services in New Jersey geared just for them. As we celebrate our 60th Anniversary in 2024, it just felt nat­ ural that this was the time to do something innovative while contin­ uing our support of all segments of first responders,” said David Rus­ sell, President of Fire & Safety Services. The first stop for the 2024 Road Rally will be in southern New Jer­ sey on Thursday, May 30th from 5pm-8pm at the Burlington Town­ ship Fire Department, located at 31601 Burlington Bypass Burling­ ton NJ, 08016. Learn more and RSVP for May 30th at f-ss.com. Keep up with Road Rally updates on Fire & Safety Services’ social media platforms.

DAMIEN DANIS

Multiple Trucks Burn in MidDay Ridgefield Fire RIDGEFIELD, NJ - At ap­ proximately 12:47 P.M. on March 3rd, the Ridgefield Fire Depart­ ment was dispatched to the area of Pleasant View Terrace and Rail­ road Ave., for a report of multiple box trucks on fire. Chief Russo re­ ported a large black smoke column while enroute and requested an inboro second-alarm, along with bringing mutual aid companies into the scene. Chief Russo arrived on scene with Engine 3 and both units con­ firmed four trucks fully involved

Jump to file #030324116

with fire in the rear of the building at 65 Railroad Ave. Chief of Dept. Ghizzone arrived and took com­ mand of the incident not too long after. Multiple hand lines, along with deck guns from Engines 3 and 4, and Engine l's ladder pipe went into operation to knock down the heavy fire. This incident would reach a third-alarm, bringing additional

units to the scene and to cover the town. Units operated on scene for about four hours. Mutual aid from Ridgefield Park, Fairview, and Pal­ isades Park operated on scene while companies from Cliffside Park, Leonia and others covered the Boro. The Bergen County FlazMat was requested due to the fluid run off. There were no injuries re­ ported. The fire is under investiga­ tion. - DAMIEN DANIS

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1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

May, 2024

PAGE 15

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May, 2024

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

American Fireboats, The H istory o f W aterborne F irefighting and Rescue in America ON THE BOOK SHELF by John Malecky

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inches, with 256 pages. It is an­ other outstanding work by this au­ thor, who I once met and have reviewed other books by him in this column. Keeping to his form, he has provided a book full of in­ tense research and detail. After a preface, acknowledgements and a lengthy introduction (with photos included), the first chapter (Guns and Hoses) tells the story about the early days of marine fire protec­ tion, which was provided by the military where it takes us through WW II and post WW II. The sec­ ond chapter covers the Great Lakes with boats from Chicago, Milwaukee Cleveland, Detroit and Buffalo, NY. In this chapter you will read about Milwaukee’s most interesting LARC-V, an amphibi­ ous craft capable of fighting fires on water and land since it had road capability. You can see two more of them in Miami and Tampa chapters. The next chapter is New England featuring boats from Boston, Portland Maine and New Haven, Norwalk and Bridgeport and the Noroton FD in Darien Connecticut and Portsmouth, New Hampshire. In this chapter is shown a Boston high pressure hose and booster wagon of Engine 26 (which worked in conjunction with the boats) that continued pumping even after it was nearly destroyed by a falling wall. The 1947 Mack was driven to the shops under its own power. The rest of the other chapters cover the Atlantic Coast, Gulf of Mexico, Inland Cities, California’s Pacific Coast, Pacific Northwest and Hawaii. Space re­ straints for this column preclude details of these aforementioned areas except Hawaii. There is a special place in my heart for Hawaii because when in the Army, I spent 15 months training at Schofield Barracks on the Island of Oahu before being deployed to Viet Nam. While on the island, I befriended many Honolulu chiefs and firefighters and had a tour of the fireboat at the time, the Abner T. Longley. As was told to me, Mr. Longley was a resident who fought to have a fireboat, but passed away before it went into service. So it was named after him. The Moku Ahi, painted yellow, replaced the Longley years later, however was since sold, leaving Oahu without a full side fireboat. The Honolulu City and County Fire Department (one agency) covers the entire is­ land with the exception of military bases, who have their own fire protection. This book is a must for anyone interested in fire department histo­ ries and fire apparatus. It is loaded with photos and every chapter will hold your interest.

MARTY PELTA

Fair Lawn Handles F ully Involved Car Fire FAIR LAWN, NJ - On March 16th at approximately 4:30 P.M., Fair Lawn Police received several calls reporting a car accident in the wooded area at the rear of a house on Saddle River Rd., be­ tween the rear yard of the house and the county park. The car was engulfed in flames upon arrival of the first police units. Initial reports were that there was possibly a child in the rear seat of the vehicle. It was determined that there were no occupants in the vehicle. The FD arrived and quickly extinguished the fire and the surrounding brush which had ignited. A few police officers at the scene received oxygen due to smoke inhalation, but thankfully there were no serious injuries and no emergency personnel had to be transported. The driver of the vehicle was transported by Fair Lawn Volunteer Ambulance Corps. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

BROTHERS & SISTERS OF THE EMERGENCY SERVICES If you have photos you would like to see in our “Brothers & Sisters of the Emergency Services” feature, please upload them on our website, www. 1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com.

RON JEFFERS While having his morning cup of coffee in the Gong Club canteen truck, Jersey City Fire Department Chaplain, Father James Pagnotta, was greeted by New Haven, CT, Fire Chief John Alston. Chief Alston is a retired Jersey City deputy chief. They were attending the funeral of retired city Firefighter Wayne Taylor, in March.

May, 2024

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

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May, 2024

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

ACTION SHOTS

LITTLE BIG GUYS

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

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

This month we feature Brush 66 of the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, located in Plainsboro (Middlesex County). It is a 2012 Ford F-550 4x4/Firematic BRAT (Brush Rapid Attack Truck), which for­ merly served at the Brookhaven National Lab in Long Island, NY as their Brush 3. Features and equip­ ment include a five-seat cab, Power Stroke diesel engine, brush guard, Hale 400-gpm pump, 300-gallon water tank, (two) one-inch booster reels, tow strap, Warn 9,500-pound portable winch, Foam Pro sys­ tem, Stream lights, scene lighting, TFT Foam/PAK, wye connection (2 Vi-inch to 1 Vi-inch), 1 %-inch front bumper line and an Elkhart Sidewinder bumper turret and roll-up compartment doors.

RON JEFFERS Some 400 students and faculty members were evacuated from the Jersey City Global Charter School on Congress Street, March 26th, due to a trash fire in a basement bathroom that sent some through the building, according to officials. A second-alarm was transmit­ ted in order to search all classrooms.

_ JOHN M . MALECKY Princeton Plasma Physics Lab Brush 66, 2012 Ford F-550 4x4/Firematic BRAT, 400/300 with 9,500pound portable winch.

RON JEFFERS Jersey City firefighters battled a labor intensive 3-alarm fire that involved two attached mixed occupancy buildings on Grand St., March 16th. Flames spread up walls and into ceilings. It took al­ most three hours before it was placed under control, according to the Jersey Journal. Three firefighters suffered non-life-threatening injuries. Several families were displaced due to the fire.

JOHN M . MALECKY Right/rear of Princeton Plasma Physics Lab Brush 66.

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

PAGE 19

May, 2024

V ehicle News L. s s , ®

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limit

RON JEFFERS

RON JEFFERS

South Plainfield Engine 4 has been assigned a 2023 E-One Cyclone model 2000gpm/720-gwt pumper equipped with a 50-foot boom. The raised roof cab has eight seats and it is equipped with hand light and radio chargers. Features include roll­ out tool trays, hydraulic ladder rack, wheel well storage, rear vision camera and and two rear discharge gates. The extended front bumper has a hose tray, intake and dis­ charge gate. It was sold by Absolute Fire Equipment Co.

The Port Authority of New York & New Jersey has assigned a 2023 Pierce Arrow XT/PUC model 1500-gpm/700-gwt/100-gft unit to Newark Liberty International Airport, for Rescue 8. Features include roll-out tool trays, portable scene lights, rear vision camera, a pre-connected BlitzFire monitor at the rear of the apparatus, 9000-lb. portable winch with three receivers, two rear discharge gates, coffin style compart­ ments, plus ground ladders and pike poles are stored in a hose bed compartment. Rescue 8 also carries extrication equipment. It was sold by Fire & Safety Services.

RON JEFFERS

RON JEFFERS

North Plainfield has placed into service a 2023 E-One 1750-gpm/490-gwt/100-foot Plainfield Truck Co. 1 received a 2023 E-One Typhoon model 95-foot mid-mount plat­ rear-mount quint. Ground ladders are stored in a torque box compartment and there form. The cab has six seats along with hand light chargers and a TIC charger. It is are three cross lay hose beds. In addition, it has roll-out tool trays, wheel well storage equipped with a rear vision camera and scene lights. It was sold by Absolute Fire space and a rear vision camera. It was sold by Absolute Fire Equipment Co. Equipment Co.

If your department has a new vehicle you would like featured in “ Vehicle News,” send a nicely posed and lit photo with text to: RON JEFFERS Bogota Rescue 1 is a 1988 Mack CS model/Ranger apparatus that saw original duty with Teaneck Rescue 1. It is a special operations unit that possesses extrication tools, water rescue equipment and assorted support equipment. It has a walk-in box and 8000-lb. front mounted winch.

news@1strespondernews.com

PAGE 20

May, 2024

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

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

RON JEFFERS South Essex duty deputy chiefs answer alarms in a 2020 Chevy Tahoe.

LOU KELTER Garfield Engine Co. 2 utilized this Hahn pumper.

RON JEFFERS In Wayne, Pompton Falls Co. 3 Chief John Annaloro utilizes a black 2022 Chevy Tahoe.

RON JEFFERS

RON JEFFERS Pompton Lakes Assistant Chief Dennis Dakake operates this 2012 Chevy Tahoe.

At Fort Lee Company 3, Truck 1 was assigned a Duplex/LTI rear-mount aerial ladder.

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PAGE 21

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May, 2024

Fast-Moving Garage Fire Quickly Contained in Garfield G ARFIELD, N J - Garfield firefighters quickly knocked down a m orning garage fire on M arch 10th. A round 9:40 A.M ., Garfield companies were dispatched to 155 M arket St. on a report o f flames and smoke coming from a garage. A ssistant C hief M ike Colon arrived and confirm ed a w orking fire. The garage was heavily involved on Engine 5's arrival. As lines w ere stretched and the door opened, firefighters contained the fire to the one-story, tw o-car garage. N o in­ juries were reported, and the blaze was under control w ithin 30 m in­ utes. The fire is being investigated by the G arfield fire prevention. M utual aid from Saddle Brook as­ sisted on the scene. Stand by units from Clifton, Elmwood Park, Lodi, M ayw ood, Passaic and Rochelle Park covered the city. - DAMIEN DANIS

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May, 2024

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

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

JUSTIN WATREL Members of the BCFHA stuffing envelopes for the fundraiser.

Bergen County Firemen’s Home Association Starts Another Successful Year w ith Annual Fundraiser and First Meeting a t NJ State Firemen’s Home

PROVIDED A busy night at River Edge Fire Department, Tuesday, 03/26/2024. Joint training exercise hosted by River Edge Fire De­ partment with Rochelle Park Fire Department. Together we went over May Day, Down Firefighter CPR and Denver Drill. River Edge Fire Department has been busy with "Pre-Plan­ ning" exercises on several buildings of concern in River Edge, as well as other various training this year, expect our department to complete 12 important exercises for Quarter 1, 2024 and plenty is scheduled for April and 2024, including the Bergen County Fire Academy.

The members of the Bergen County Firemen's Home Associa­ tion met at the Harrington Park Fire House in January to start the stuffing of the envelopes for the fundraising efforts of the organi­ zation. Monies raised by the fundraiser help pay for entertain­ ment, refreshments, the food for the barbecue, gifts to the residents and for items that residents might need at the NJ State Firemen’s Home. This fundraiser has only been the success it has been with the support of fire companies all over Bergen County and we ap­ preciate any donations that are given to the organization.

Jump to file #032724108

We continued our support to the residents of the NJ State Fire­ men’s Home with our first meet­ ing and scheduled entertainment and refreshments on February 18th. In partnership with the Recreation staff at the home, we hosted the afternoon’s entertain­ ment. We had a nice afternoon of music and conversation during the breaks for the residents with light refreshments served by members of the staff. Country singer David Remlis entertained the residents

for the afternoon and it was a great concert for everyone who joined in that afternoon. If you are interested in becom­ ing a member of the Bergen County Firemen's Home Associa­ tion, please attend one of our meetings at the NJ State Firemen's Home in Boonton, NJ. Our meet­ ings are 1:00pm on April 14th, June 8th, August 3rd, October 13th, and the 1st of December for our Annual Holiday Party. We are looking for new members from fire companies all over Bergen County. - JUSTIN WATREL

Several towns have been reaching out to River Edge for joint train­ ing exercises; we are honored to work with Rochelle Park and wel­ come joint training exercises with the brothers and sisters in any of the Bergen County towns as more joint training is on the calen­ dar for 2024, as well with various departments. All I will add as Chief of Department for River Edge, I am very proud of our department and the fact that our members take train­ ing very seriously and are always open minded to learning from the other great Departments in Bergen County. - ROBERT SCHOLOSSBERG, RIVER EDGE CHIEF OF DEPT.

Visit us online for more news around New Jersey. www.1rbn.com

JUSTIN WATREL Group photo at the NJ State Firemen's Home.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

The C onnecticut Fire Service Experience

May, 2024

PAGE 25

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

by John Malecky

The Connecticut Fire Sendee Experience By Kevin McKeon Available from: FSP Books & Videos 433 Main Street, Suite 2A Hudson, MA 01749 1-800-522-8528 Email: support@ fire-policeems.com www. fire-police-ems.com Price: $35.00 This book is soft cover, 8 'A inches by 11 inches, with 138 pages. It is Volume 3-our heritage and our future. My regret is that I was unaware o f the first two vol­ umes, and by now they are sold out (which is good news for the author). He is a retired career lieutenant. My immediate impres­ sion while reading this book is that he, the author, is having “the time o f his life” doing what he loves, which is writing about pho­ tographing Connecticut fire appa­ ratus and the history behind them. The forward is by a friend of

mine, Mark Redman, retired from the Bristol FD. Mark is a skilled artist, and on the inside cover has a magnificent drawing of a 1936 New Haven Seagrave tiller. Back then, their trucks had a deck gun behind the cab which in my opin­ ion is common sense because where does the truck position at a fire? In front o f the building! A good place for the deck gun to be. Another friend involved is Glenn Vincent, who wrote the forward of one of the previous volumes. Nev­ ertheless, in the chapters each of the eight state counties is repre­ sented by photos of personnel and experiences and a multitude of magnificent color apparatus pho­ tos. A friend of mine who knows that author says that he aspired to photograph every apparatus in Connecticut, which is an ongoing task that is never complete be­ cause trucks are bought every year. With the help from many, the ac­ knowledgements take up seven single spaced pages. Don’t forget to check out the special feature in the back o f the book. Before this segment is a list of the Connecticut Firefighter Hall of Fame members. Take my word for it, if you have an interest in history and fire appa­ ratus, this is a book you will want in your collection. Order it before it sells out like the other volumes!

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

MARTY PELTA Fair Lawn Ex-Chief Lou Cicchella getting his air tank changed after exiting the fire building.

Forcible Entry llnstruct!ng forcible entry tech­ niques isn’t as much about the practical methods as it is about a mindset; it's about thinking about the best way to gain entry to a building or vehicle as safely and efficiently as possible. This is not to say that a firefighter doesn’t have to practice forcing open a door with a set of irons or using a key to unlock the exte­ rior doors of a grounded eleva­ tor. As mentioned, those are practical skills that need repeti­ tion to form muscle memory. No, forcible entry is more about maintaining your composure be­ cause ultimately when a fire­ fighter “loses it” and relies more on brute force rather than intelli­ gence and leverage, then the process of gaining access takes longer. That not only puts poten­ tial victims in more danger, but also themselves as firefighters end up using more energy and resources including air from their cylinders. Realistically, there is only one reason why forcible entry is nec­ essary and that is to extract a po­ tential victim from smoke and/or fire. So, in any given forcible entry scenario the stakes are au­ tomatically high and it can be easy to lose your focus. So^ how then would a fire instructor go about teaching forcible entry emphasizing intelligence and cunning versus brute force? More importantly, how would an instructor then make the con­ nection so that firefighters real­ ize that using intelligence and leverage almost always guaran­ tees a focused attack. There are two main branches to empha­ size; the practical aspect being the first, and the second high­ lights thinking under duress. Al­ though both can be taught separately, they intertwine in a positive feedback model and build off one another. Relative to the practical side there really aren't many limits to not only the skills taught, but also the format in which they are presented. The reason for this is

the seemingly endless tools at our disposal to gain access. For example, an instructor can set up stations in one drill where a lock board with several types of locks that would necessitate a Ktool kit can be balanced with several other stops like using a K12 saw to cut rebar to simulate a wrought iron gate or bars around windows. Of course, no forcible entry drill would be com­ plete without a door simulator for firefighters to practice prying open a door using a set of irons. Still, forcible entry can also be taught in a series of drills teach­ ing to mastery one skill or tool at a time. A cautionary note here is war­ ranted and that is to make sure that any forcible entry lesson plans and drills match what fire­ fighters in your district are likely going to encounter. Rural resi­ dential districts likely will not have bars on the windows as much as an urban situation, and so why develop a forcible entry drill that has little if any applica­ tion. Awareness is great and necessary, but practicality is going to be the order of the day. Obviously, when skills are prac­ ticed to mastery when they are put into play, firefighters are going to be able to stay focused on their task fully knowing they have what it takes to get the job done. Enter the second branch that is arguably the more difficult as­ pect to instruct; using the most important and effective tool available to firefighters, i.e. your brain. We have all heard the phrase “try before you pry”. Whereas the practical applica­ tion of this phrase is simply to try the door knob before you use a Halligan and flathead ax to force and bust open the front door it can also be interpreted another way. This popular ex­ pression can also translate to “think before you break”. Granted in a forcible entry situa­ tion firefighters may not have the luxury of time, it still needs to be

emphasized that the best method to gain access is think­ ing. When faced with a forcible entry situation, thinking (try) before acting (pry) will have the effect of helping to keep your composure. Think first, devise a plan and then act on it accordingly. Ulti­ mately, your forcible entry tech­ nique should match the situation. For example, blocking your access is an eight-foot driveway gate. Plan one (“TRY”) could be trying the lock or if pos­ sible, using a key from a knox box while plan two (“PRY”) could be using an A-frame lad­ der to get over it fast and effi­ ciently and on your way to your victim or a K12 saw to cut the lock or hinges. Even if your first plan fails, maintaining the ability to think and quickly devising a second plan is not only crucial for any given situation, it is also crucial for an instructor while training firefighters to demon­ strate the importance of staying calm and the connection be­ tween and how thinking (trying before prying) begets staying poised and in control. Although the emphasis here has been to think, keep in mind that being aggressive is also accept­ able, depending on the situation. It should be “intelligently ag­ gressive”. For example, leverage is better than strength and know­ ing your tools and where they are on your truck is better than bringing the wrong tool or not being able to find the correct tool. Last note is to check out the video at this link: htt ps ://y out u. be/bm B FaD3r oRs. What is most remarkable is how calm the firefighter involved is throughout the situation. Think, try before you pry, staying calm as a result and get the job done safely. - JOSEPH CEA

PAGE 26

May, 2024

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

BROTHERS & SISTERS OF THE EMERGENCY SERVICES If you have photos you would like to see in our “Brothers & Sisters of the Emergency Sendees” feature, please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com.

RON JEFFERS

EJ RODE

At the command post, during the Maywood multiple-alarm dwelling fire of March 24th, (L to R): River Edge Chief Robert Schlossberg, Bergen County Mutual Aid Co­ ordinator Joe Alvarez, Maywood Chief John Gargagliano and ex-Chief Dave Pegg.

Bogota's new Fire Chief, Michael Krynicky, is being sworn in by councilman Robert Robbins while his wife, Stephanie, holds the bible.

RON JEFFERS

EJ RODE

Members of Plainfield Truck Co. 1 with their new E-One Typhoon model 95-foot plat­ form. (L to R): Lt. Malcolm Alston, and Firefighters Jamall Johnson, Christopher D'Amico and Jaron Hughes.

Bogota's new Fire Chiefs, Deputy Chief Adam Scheffer and Battalion Chief Robert Dirr.

SHFD

RON JEFFERS

On March 20, 2024, the Seaside Heights mayor and council recognized three Seaside Heights Fire Department firefighters for their outstanding achievement on the fire ground. All three firefighters were involved in life-saving events during 2023. Pictured are 1st Lieutenant Hunter Parks, Capt. Nicholas Farrell, and Firefighter Nico Devo.

Members of Jersey City Ladder Co. 2 were the victims of a partial ceiling collapse dur­ ing a 3-alarm fire involving two attached three-story mixed occupancy buildings on Grand St., March 16th. Being checked out by Jersey City Medical Center EMTs are, LR: Capt. Anthony Wolleon, and Firefighters Jonathan Jedziniak and Francis Marshall.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

May, 2024

PAGE 27

BROTHERS & SISTERS OF THE EMERGENCY SERVICES If you have photos you would like to see in our “Brothers & Sisters of the Emergency Sendees” feature, please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com.

RON JEFFERS

RON JEFFERS

Members of the Jersey City Firefighters Emerald Society Pipes & Drums line up and prepare to march in the city's annual St. Patrick's Day Parade, March 10th.

Members of the Teaneck Volunteer Ambulance Squad examine a firefighter during a multiple-alarm blaze that involved an East Forest Avenue dwelling on March 4th.

PROVIDED

RON JEFFERS

Members of Jersey City Ladder Co. 9, Group A. (L to R): Firefighers Nick Andreula, Erick Greenemier, Captain Greg Fuehrer, and Firefighter Rob DelaCruz.

River Edge Chief of Department Robert Scholossberg, left, introduced retired North Hudson Deputy Chief-author-instructor Anthony Avillo at Company 2's audiencefilled firehouse for Chief Avillo's seminar on private dwelling fires, March 4th.

RON JEFFERS

RON JEFFERS

Teaneck firefighters exchange air bottles during a smoky fire that involved an East Forest Avenue dwelling on March 4th.

Maywood Assistant Chief Roy De Young, Jr., calls the crew from a mutual aid engine company to the front of a fire building on Grove Ave., March 24th.

PAGE 28

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

May, 2024

PATCH OF THE MONTH

MEMORIAL BOARD

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

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

PROVIDED BY RICHARD PEPLOWSKI

RON JEFFERS

This patch belongs to Skyline Lake Volunteer Fire Department, located in Ringwood, NJ (Passaic County), established in 1965.

This memorial now adorns the jump seat windows of Plainfield Engine 4 in honor of Firefighter Marquise "Huddy" Hudson, who gave his life in the line of duty battling a dwelling fire on Emerson Avenue, January 26th.

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1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

May, 2024

PAGE 29

RON JEFFERS

Gong Club treasurer Paul Schaetzle provided local Scout Troop 466 with a presentation involving the Gong Club's mission and the fire service in general.

Scouts V isit Volunteer Fire Group’s Quarters JERSEY CITY, NJ - In this world of what seems to become a more, “what can you do for me,” world, Jersey City Fire Captain Greg Fuehrer, of Ladder Co. 9, is a dedicated volunteer serving as Committee Charter representative for Scouts of America Troop 466. On the evening of March 5th, he took his troops to visit another organization that voluntary gives to others. The field trip, which has become an annual event for Troop 466, assembled at the Gong Club's quarters on Summit Ave. The Gong Club is 73-years-old and made up of volunteers who oper­ ate a rehab canteen truck, which responds to major fires and other emergencies in Hudson County, and wherever else it is called to. The building is also filled with firematic memorabilia, photos, scanners, and of course, the can­ teen truck. Club treasurer Paul Schatzle gave the group a walk-around of the old firehouse, which included

RILL TOMPKINS - WWW.OTFIREPHOTOS.COM

to fiie #040124102

& I & a tour of the truck and its purpose, the old fire alarm bell system, plus a presentation on the fire service and the group's mission on the flat screen TV. Captain Fuehrer also provided a drone video of a recent multiple-alarm fire, on the house computer. During the kitchen area part of the presentation, the scouts were treated to pizza and other refresh­ ments. At the end of the tour. Captain Fuehrer came equipped with water fire extinguishers and gave the group a class on how to operate them, which was also a big hit. Parents proudly took photos of their kids operating the fire extin­ guishers when they arrived to take them home.

Heavy Fire in Hawthorne HAWTHORNE, NJ - As Hawthorne Fire Chief Speranza ar­ rived at 16 Cedar Place at 10:23 PM. on March 20th, heavy lire was involving the rear of a two-and-ahalf-story frame dwelling. A sec­ ond-alarm was immediately transmitted. The home was on the end of a dead-end street with very limited access. Only two rigs were able to get on to the block with all others

Jump to file #032124102

f t 2P on adjoining streets. A two-and-ahalf-inch line was stretched to the rear to protect the “D” exposure. Additional lines were advanced in the front door to knock down the heavy lire. Several collapses oc­ curred in the rear, as well as the roof and all members were withdrawn.

Companies re-entered soon after and completed knocking down the flames. The fire was placed under con­ trol in one hour, and companies continued overhaul. All residents were accounted for and no serious injuries were reported. The cause is under investigation. - BILL TOMPKINS

- RON JEFFERS

RON JEFFERS

Captain Greg Fuehrer, and a troop leader, trained his group on the use of a water fire extinguisher at the complement of the Gong Club tour.

RILL TOMPKINS - WWW.RTFIREPH0T0S.COM

PAGE 30

May, 2024

1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

DRILLS/TRAINING

ACTION SHOT

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

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

National Certification: Part 1 As you begin and continue your training as a firefighter in NYS one of the aspects that needs considerable attention is whether or not to take national certification exams. There are several reasons for this, the first being that you simply never know if an opportunity (such as employment or family) will take you out of state and having national certification can help you continue your career as a firefighter immediately without having to repeat any training. A second reason would be to verify to yourself, your volunteer department and/or career fire service em­ ployer that your skills are legit­ imate. Let’s take a look at some of the nuts and bolts of the national certification firefighter program in NYS. Some basic definitions first. Accreditation (or to be ac­ credited) means to have an out­ side, third-party agency look at the courses offered and deter­ mine whether or not a specific course(s) meet a certain level or criteria. In NYS The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA - NFPA.org) sets the standards that are used by these third-party agencies to accredit the firefighter courses that are offered by the Office of Fire Prevention and Control (OFPC). Further, in NYS only specific courses are accredited and not the agency (OFPC) it­ self and only for the purposes of national certification and not awarding college credit. The third party that runs that check system for firematic courses in NYS is call “The Pro Board” (www.theproboard.org). The Pro Board will compare the course syllabus with the NFPA standards to determine whether or not the two documents are consistent. If so, then the agency, in this case OFPC can offer a national certification test that theoretically can be used by other states to recognize your training as being suffi­ cient. Not every firematic course offered by OFPC has a national certification test. In fact, there are only fifteen courses in NYS where a na­ tional certification test can be administered. They are as fol­ lows and can also be viewed

here (https://www.dhses.ny.gov/national-certifications): NFPA 1001 Firefighter I* (Download Fire­ fighter I Practical Skills Test) Firefighter II* (Download Fire­ fighter II Practical Skills Test) NFPA 1003 Airport Firefighter NFPA 1021 Fire Officer I (Download Fire Of­ ficer I Practical Skills Test) Fire Officer II (Download Fire Of­ ficer II Practical Skills Test) Fire Officer III (Download Fire Officer III Practical Skills Test) NFPA 1031 Fire Inspector I NFPA 1033 Fire Investigator NFPA 1035 Fire and Life Safety Educator I NFPA 1041 Fire and Emergency Service In­ structor I Fire and Emergency Service In­ structor II Live Fire Instructor I (Download Live Fire Instructor I Practical Skills Test) Live Fire Instructor-In-Charge (Download Live Fire InstructorIn-Charge Practical Skills Test) NFPA 472 Hazardous Materials Opera­ tions (Download HazMat Ops Practical Skills Test) Hazardous Materials Technician There are several subtleties that need to be understood and passed along regarding na­ tional certification tests. 1) National certification exams require a separate application and a separate training authori­ zation Letter (TAL) 2) Not ALL states accept na­ tional certification so firefight­ ers may have to do some research as to how certain states go about accepting these tests in lieu of re-training. As an example, Florida does not ac­ cept any and Pennsylvania still requires a review of your coursework before accepting your training.

3) Some are simply a paper test with the vast majority of the questions being multiple choice although some (like Fire Officer 1) have short answer questions that provide a specific scenario and ask to describe the proper procedure or legality. Still other national certification tests as can be seen in this article have a practical skills part as well as a paper test. 4) Lately, national certification exams are being given at the conclusion of one of the 15 courses but the instructor must arrange when they register the course for the national certifica­ tion test to be administered at the conclusion. This is because there is a different registration process and arrangements such as having enough proctors, who by law cannot be the course in­ structors). If the instructor does not make this arrangement, then the firefighter will have to arrange to take a national certi­ fication test separately. 5) Even if you take/pass some national certification tests will not be officially recognized until you take the next level course. For example, Fire Officer 1 won’t be recognized on your tran­ script until you have passed the Firefighter 2 course. In other words, you will have a passing grade but won’t be issued the certificate until you take and pass Firefighter 2. 6) A passing grade on the writ­ ten exams is 70. Usually, you get two opportunities to pass the paper and/or practical test. As an example, if a firefighter passes the practical but not the written they will be given a sec­ ond opportunity to pass the written without having to repeat the practical. However, if that firefighter does not pass the written a second time, they will have to repeat both the written and practical again. If you decide to take a national certification exam the worst thing you can do is take it lightly. Don’t put off studying and/or preparing or you will be disappointed at the results. Just like any other training take it se­ riously and at the end of the day you’ll be proud of your accom­ plishment. -JOSEPH CEA

DAMIEN DANES At approximately 2:45 A.M. on the morning of March 11th, Garfield fire companies were dispatched to an activated water flow alarm on Chestnut St. Upon arrival, Engine 1 and Engine 5 began to in­ vestigate and were quickly met by a heavy interior smoke condi­ tion and a sprinkler activation. Assistant Chief Colon requested Elmwood Park Truck 4 to the scene due to Garfield's Truck being out of service. Companies found a fire in the ceiling/roof in the rear corner of the structure. Companies were able to quickly ex­ tinguish the remaining fire that wasn’t extinguished by the sprin­ kler system. The incident was held to the first-alarm companies. Companies remained on scene for approximately two hours. Garfield Fire Prevention Bureau is conducting further investiga­ tion into the incident.

Submitting photos and press releases is EASY!

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1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

May, 2024

PAGE 31

H ow to E n jo y th e P e o p le in Y our L ife

ACTION SHOT

work with? The people in your family? The people in your church? Do you enjoy the person that you're married to? Too many times we don't re­ ally enjoy the people in our lives, we tolerate them, we put up with them. We endure them. So, what does it take to enjoy the people in your life?

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

If you have photos for Action Shots please upload them on our website,

Chaplain’s Corner Pastor Fernando Villicana

Summer is right around the corner - already. What does sum­ mer mean to you? For me it usu­ ally equates to much more time enjoying good weather with friends and family. For many in the fire service it means time to ENJOY vacation(s). In the Bible, most of Philippians is a positive book and has been referred to as “the joy book.” The words "joy" or "rejoice" or "be glad" are used 17 different times in this book. In the very first chapter, Paul starts off talking about people. Flave you noticed that if relation­ ships are bad, life stinks. If rela­ tionships are strained, life is difficult. If you have problems with people it kills the joy in your life. Do you enjoy the people around you? The people that you

Be grateful for the good in people. Philippians 1:3. St. Paul said: "I thank my God even ’ time I re­ member you. " Paul said I like to remember the good things about people. And although there is always going to be imperfection in people, I focus on the good times we've had,remember the positive experiences. What do you remember about peo­ ple? The good experiences or the bad experiences. When Paul said this he had not had an easy time in Philippi. When he went to Philippi he was arrested illegally, he was whipped, humili­ ated, thrown in prison. While in prison there was an earthquake. Then he was asked to leave town. Paul did not have a good time in

Philippi, he had a bad time. Yet he says, when I think of you I remem­ ber the good things. "I thank God even’ time I remember y o u ." Paul could have dwelt on the negative, the painful memories. But instead, he focused on the things he could be grateful for and that lead to his joy. Maybe you have, in your past, been hurt by a family member or a friend and you're still holding on to that hurt. Well, don’t you think it’s time you forgive and be grateful for the good in people. Pleasant memories are a choice. I can choose what I'm going to remember about the past. So, let’s enjoy spring as it lead us all to summer. Let’s choose to appreciate those who God has brought into our lives and forgive those who have trespassed against us. Lord, help us to enjoy the peo­ ple in our lives. Blessings, Pastor Fernando Villicana Fire Service Chaplain

BILL TOMPKINS - WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM Former River Edge Chief Greg Cariddi checks conditions in the basement from the exterior at a 3rd alarm in Oradell on 3-28-24.

easterm -d iv is io n

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New Jersey will be hosting the 2024 Annual Conference of the Eastern Division International Association of Fire Chiefs. The Conference will take place May 10 - 11. 2024 and promises to offer both educational and networking opportunities with members from the Eastern Division states, which include New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, and the District of Columbia. Conference activities will be held at the hotel. It is our goal to provide you with a quality experience where relevant and impactful speakers will deliver critical information for you to expand your knowledge as a fire service professional to take back to your departments. Furthermore, we are optimistic that, through social events, this Conference will allow a great opportunity for networking with fellow peers, industry vendors, and today’s fire service leaders. Sponsorship opportunities are available and are explained on the following pages. In the meantime, should you have questions, please contact Conference Chairman Christopher Burnett at ediafc2024@qmail.com.

CURRENT TOP SPONSORS: Belfor Property Restoration Campbell Supply & Campbell Freightliner ESI Equipment Emergency Equipment Sales ESI Equipment, Inc. Fleet Reps National Fire Sprinkler Association New Jersey Fire Equipment Company Rivell SERVPRO Damage Restoration Artwork for Conference Journal and Banners Must Be Supplied to: Journal Book Chairman Chief James Yates at: ivatescfo@amail.com to support the 2024 ED IAFC Conference. Checks can be made out to EDIAFC 2024 and mailed to 69 Elbo Lane, Mount Laurel, NJ, 08054. A portion o f the proceeds w ill be donated to the N ational Fallen Firefighters Foundation

PAGE 32

May, 2024

1st Responder Newspaper - NJ

Out-of-Control Vehicle Crashes Into Ridgefield Firehouse RIDGEFIELD, NJ - An outof-control SUV rammed into the front of Ridgefield Vol. Fire Com­ pany l's firehouse, on Broad Ave., on the evening of March 11th. Shortly after 6 p.m., the fire department was toned out for a re­ ported MVA with a vehicle into a building, smoking. That was fol­ lowed up by, the vehicle is into the firehouse! The driver self-extricated and was checked by EMTs, but re­ fused medical attention. There were no other injuries. The vehicle rammed through a guard rail, separating the fire­ house and a nearby store, before crashing into a storage area at the front of the building, creating se-

JUMP TO FILE #031324103

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rious structural damage. The appa­ ratus bay doors were also affected, but the company's quint and tower ladder were not damaged. According to “The Daily Voice,” the driver claimed that his brakes had failed. Witnesses told police that they observed the ve­ hicle speeding just before the crash. Local building officials were called to the scene, and the Ridge­ field police are conducting an in­ vestigation. - RON JEFFERS

RON JEFFERS An out-of-control vehicle crashed through a guard rail and into the front of Ridgefield Fire Co. l's quarters on Broad Avenue, March 11th. The driver refused medical attention.

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May, 2024

PAGE 35

SOME RIGS FROM MORRIS COUNTY This month we visit Morris County. The focus is mostly in Jef­ ferson Township, plus two New Jer­ sey Forest Fire Service trucks serving their “A” Regional Division of which Morris County is a part. One is a brush truck with a shopbuilt body and the other is a tanker with an Amthors body and updated Freightliner chassis. The county ap­ paratus is from Jefferson Township and features most of the ones from FC. 1, Milton. From Milton are two Pierce pumpers with large water tanks, a pump-in-compartment pumper/tanker with black wrap cov­ ering the hood and top of the cab as an alternative to paint. It has been said that this plastic wrap lasts longer than a normal paint job would be. Also in this column is their 4x4 pumper, which has a wrap on its hood and roof. Completing the photos is FC. 2’s Rescue 2, a 2002 Autocar/Rescue 1, refurbished in 2023. There were other photos taken from FC. 1 that will appear in a future issue. In dealer news. Blaze Emergency Equipment reports that they have received an order from Sea Isle City (Cape May County) for a Sutphen custom pumper. Specs include a Monarch 73-inch-long cab with 10inch raised roof, 2000-gpm Fiale Qmax pump, 1000-gallon poly water tank, 25-gallon poly foam tank, Fiale Smartfoam 5.0 CAFS, booster reel, three crosslays, front bumper suction and 2 !4-inch dis­ charge, FRC Spectra 12V scene lights, TFT Crossfire deck gun with Extenda-Gun, hose bed capacity of 300-feet of three-inch, 400-feet of 2 !4-inch and 1500-feet of five-inch LDFi and fully enclosed ladders and hard suction. They have delivered to Pennsville FC in Pennsville Town­ ship (Salem County) the Sutphen Monarch 108-foot RM quint. Campbell Supply Co., LLC has received the following orders: for West Tuckerton in Little Egg Harbor Township (Ocean County), a Spartan Star Tanker with Kenworth T-880 chassis, Waterous 2000-gpm pump and 3500-gallon water tank. Also, Woodbridge Township (Mid­ dlesex County) has ordered a Spar­ tan ER Star Series Extreme Duty Pumper on a Metro Star chassis. It has a 10-inch raised roof cab, Wa­ terous 2000-gpm pump, 750-gallon water tank and low hose bed. They also have some Emergency Vehicles Inc. (EVI) orders. Those include two for Monmouth County. One is an Emergency Service Unit on a Ford F-550 4x4 chassis for the Sherriff’s Department. It will have Whelen scene lighting. The other is for the Fire Marshal’s Office and will be a special service unit on a Ford F-550 4x4 chassis and 12-foot emergency service body with Whe­ len scene lights. Others are for the Middlesex County OEM. One is a 24-foot USAR trailer with Ford F550 4x4 tow vehicle. It will have Amdor roll-up compartment doors, Whelen scene lights, a back up cam­ era, an electric reel, and a 7 kw Fionda quiet portable generator. Please send any comments or news tidbits you might have about Apparatus of the Month to us at 1st Responder News, 1 Ard­ more Street. New Windsor, NY 12553. Or you can e-mail them to Apparatus@lstResponderNews.com.

A look at what's new with apparatus around the state with John Malecky

JOHN M . MALECKY

Jefferson Twp. E-727, 2020 Pierce Enforcer 1500/1250. It was sold by Fire & Safety Services.

I M . MALECKY

NJFFS, A-5, 2019 Ford F-450/Shop 250/250 and 8.5 K winch.

JOHN M . MALECKY

Jefferson Twp. T-723, 2013 Mack Granite/Pierce PIC, 1000/3000. It was sold by Fire & Safety Services.

I M . MALECKY

NJFFS, A-20, 2011 Freightliner, M2/1982 Amthors, 250/1200.

Jefferson Twp., E-724, 2006 Freightliner M2-106/ALF, 4x4, 1500/1000. It had been sold by Campbell Supply Co., LLC.

JOHN M . MALECKY

Jefferson Twp., E-722, 2022 Pierce Enforcer 1500/1250. It was sold by Fire & Safety Services.

Next is a hazmat air truck on a Freightliner M2-106 + chassis. It will have a 236-inch wheelbase, 21foot body, a rear Girard awning, booster pump, Bauer three bottle fill station, 18 SCBA storage sleeves, nine 6000 psi cascade bottles and a Will Burt light tower. Another is a roll off unit with a Penn Fabrication high water rescue platform which can be rolled on. It will be in a Freightliner 114 SD chassis. In ad­ dition, another EVI order is from the Franklin Township Police (Som­ erset County) for a command unit, which will be on a Freightliner M2 chassis. Firefighter 1 has two Ferrara or­ ders: one is for the North Fiudson Regional Fire Rescue (Fiudson County) for a Cinder pumper. Specs include a Cummins L9, 450 hp diesel engine, Fiale Qmax, 1750-

gpm pump, 750-gallon water tank, and extruded body with a low hose bed. The other is for Belleville (Essex County) and is an FiD 77 quint on a Cinder chassis. Specs in­ clude a Cummins L9, 450 hp diesel engine, Fiale Qmax 1750-gpm pump, 500-gallon water tank and rear-mounted aerial. They have de­ livered to the Budd Lake FC in Mount Olive Township (Morris County), a Cinder pumper. Specs include a Cummins L9, 450 hp diesel engine, Waterous CSU 1500gpm pump. Eclipse CAFS/750-gallon water tank and extruded body with a low hose bed. Fire & Safety Services reports the following Pierce orders: a Saber pumper for the West Orange FD (Essex County) and an Enforcer mid-mount tower for the Borough of Deal (Monmouth County). Pierce

JOHN M . MALECKY

Jefferson Twp. Co. 2, R-2, 1995 Autocar/Rescue 1 35 kw, air, 4.5 ton winch. Rehabbed by Rescue 1 in 2023.

deliveries include two Enforcer pumpers. One went to Pennsauken in Camden County and the other to the Long Hill, Stirling FC in Morris County. New Jersey Emergency Vehicles has delivered a PL. Custom Classic 147 ambulance on a Ford F-350 chassis to the Monmouth County Sherriff’s Department. Absolute Fire Protection reports that they are prepping Newark’s

Ladder 6, an E-ONE Typhoon Metro 95 platform (Essex County), and Bogota’s new super low travel height Typhoon pumper (Bergen County). They have delivered North Plainfield’s Metro 100 quint on Ty­ phoon chassis (Somerset County) and Highland Park’s Typhoon pumper as a retail unit (Middlesex County).

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1ST Responder Newspaper - NJ

May, 2024

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