1st Responder News PA August Edition

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AUGUST, 2020

CREWS BATTLE FULLY INVOLVED BARN FIRE IN EAST NANTMEAL TWP.

TVFD

East Nantmeal Twp., PA - At 1:24 P.M. on June 24th, Twin Valley FD and multiple mutual aid companies were dispatched to Hedge Road in East Nantmeal Twp. for a possible barn fire.

- See full story on page 15

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August, 2020

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

Campbell Supply Company Announces Two Senior Appointments

ADVERTISER INDEX

A guide to finding great companies

Company

Page

1st Out Specialty

3

Campbell Supply.

1, 24

Command Fire App.

16

Emergency Equip. Sales

9 JASON BATZ

ESI Equipment Fire Line Equipment

11 5,23

Marco Equipment Sales

21

Mid Atlantic Rescue

7

Team Equipment

19

Twin Tier Fire & Safety

15

Intoxicated Person Removed from Basement Fire in Reading

Reading, PA - Shortly after firefighters from the Reading D platoon began their first day-shift on July 19th, a box alarm was transmitted for 303 West Douglass Street. Engine 3 was in the area and arrived quickly with a three-story MOR with smoke showing from the basement. As firefighters stretched a line into the basement, an intoxicated person presented himself and was promptly taken out of the building. The fire was knocked down and units began a search of the remainder of the home. Paramedics transported the subject to Reading Hospital with smoke inhalation. All searches were cleared, and no other injuries were reported. The Fire Marshal's Office is investigating.

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.

CORPORATE INFORMATION

1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - Pennsylvania edition - Vol. 24 No. 8 - is published monthly, 12 times a year for $36 per year by Belsito Communications, Inc., 1 Ardmore Street, NY 12553. Periodicals Postage Paid at Newburgh, NY and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore Street, 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 A division of: in error.

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PROVIDED BY KEENAN M. FINK

This patch belongs to Bedford Vol. Fire Department No. 1, located in Bedford, PA.

South Brunswick, NJ – July 14, 2020 – Campbell Supply Company, a leading commercial and fire truck dealership with five locations in the northeast region is proud to announce two senior-level appointments. Keith Wortman will be joining Campbell Supply Company as Business Development Manager.

Keith will be responsible for supervising all sales and marketing efforts of Campbell’s outside sales parts team, setting parts sales objectives, identifying product offering gaps, and business development with our OEM partners. Keith will be reporting directly to Phil Solomine, Campbell Supply Parts Director.

A veteran sales and service representative in the medium and heavy duty truck market, Keith has worked as sales manager, dealer account representative and territory manager for Cummins. In 2017, Keith received the Legendary Sales Award for Cummins North America and has been the recipient of the Cummins Dealer Incentive Program for 9 out of 10 years.

“Keith is well-regarded in the heavy duty trucking industry for delivering the highest standards of quality and service. His extensive sales background and strong operations leadership are great assets for Campbell Supply Company, especially during this time of expansion and acquisitions” said Scott Campbell, President, Campbell Supply Company. “We are excited to welcome Keith to the Campbell Supply Company family.”

Rick Van Haaster named Sales Manager at Campbell’s Montgomery, NY location.

We are pleased to announce that Rick Van Haaster has been appointed Sales Manager for Campbell’s Montgomery, NY location. In his role, Rick will continue to build on the momentum Campbell has established in the medium and heavy duty truck market in the Northeast region. Rick started his career as an

JUMP TO FILE #071520100 apprentice mechanic in 1980 and brings with him over 25 years of sales, and service experience in the medium and heavy duty truck markets.

Prior to joining Campbell Rick earned progressive positions in the transportation industry including LP Transportation, Inc., Bradco Supply, MidHudson Mack, Gallagher Truck Center, AMI Truck Leasing and Yellow Freight Systems Inc. Rick has been responsible for the management of multimillion dollar fleet maintenance programs and parts inventories over his distinguished career.

Rick graduated from the Goshen Central High School in 1979 and holds an AAS degree in Business Management from Orange County Community College where he graduated with honors.

Campbell is pleased to have these two highly regarded trucking veterans joining the Campbell team.

About Campbell Supply: Campbell Supply Company is family-owned franchised dealership chain serving New Jersey and New York’s Hudson Valley. With 5 locations in Montgomery, NY, Lafayette, NJ, Newark, NJ, Woodbidge, NJ, and headquarters in South Brunswick, NJ, Campbell is a leader in the region for commercial truck and emergency vehicle sales and service. The company has been in business since 1967 and represents Daimler Trucks North America’s Freightliner product line, REV Fire Groups Spartan, Smeal and LTI fire truck line as well as Detroit, Cummins, Alliance Truck Parts and EVI. More information can be obtained on our website: www.campbellsupply.com - SCOTT CAMPBELL

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

August, 2020

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Girardville Fire Chief Pulls One from House Fire Schuylkill County, PA – At 7:37 P.M. on Tuesday, June 16th, Schuylkill County 9-1-1 dispatched Fire District 45 (Girardville) to 341 North Second Street in their borough for a reported house fire.

Chief 45 was advised of multiple calls reporting JUMP TO FILE# smoke and flames 070620121 from a residence with someone possibly still inside. A few minutes later, Chief 45 confirmed a working fire and advised that he pulled one person from the fire.

Engine 45-10 was first on scene pulling past the address and secured a water supply from a hydrant at 2nd Street and Mahanoy Avenue; 45-11 followed and positioned at the 'A/B' corner.

Chief 45 advised of a kitchen fire to the rear of the residence with fire spreading throughout the vacant exposures. A second-alarm was requested.

The second-alarm brought Districts 38 (Ashland–both stations), 36 (William Penn), 48 (Mahanoy City–Humane & West End), 64 (Shenandoah–Columbia & RHL), and 4 (Englewood).

Northumberland County Ladder 2 and Engine 2 were also due from Mount Carmel.

With one line stretched through the front door, additional crews arrived and began to stretch a second line. Command requested an additional supply line be laid from Main Street, which is nearly a 2000' lay. Ashland Engine 38-11 and William Penn Engine 36-13 handled the assignment and set up a relay.

Crews from Ashland’s Ladder and Shenandoah’s Tiller were sent to the roof for ventilation while Truck 2 was sent to the rear.

Multiple lines were stretched into the “D” exposure and to the rear while a ladder pipe was used from Truck 2. Crews worked on the “A” side on the porch roof to rip off siding and worked the second floor.

The brown smoke pushing from the eaves eventually turned to white steam as the fire was brought under control. The fire was officially placed under control at 9:10 P.M. Girardville crews were at the scene overnight containing flareups. The fire chief attributed the cause of the fire to unattended cooking.

Smoke pushes from a row of three homes in Girardville as crews work to reach the seat of the fire, 6/16/20.

JC KRIESHER

- JC KRIESHER

JC KRIESHER

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

August, 2020

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In memory of those who gave all

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

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

New York: Edward J. Ciocca, 62 Rank: Deputy Fire Chief Incident Date: March 24, 2020 Death Date: May 1, 2020 Fire Department: White Plains Fire Department Initial Summary: While on duty, Deputy Fire Chief Ciocca contracted COVID-19 from working with other firefighters who subsequently tested positive for the virus.

American Samoa: Allen L. Velega, 50 Rank: Captain Incident Date: April 30, 2020 Death Date: April 30, 2020 Fire Department:American Samoa Fire Bureau Division of the Department of Public Safety Initial Summary: After responding to a residential fire, Captain Mike Tipoti and Captain Allen Velega were returning to the firehouse when the apparatus they were in crashed at a sharp curve after coming down a mountain road. Captain Tipoti, who was driving the apparatus, was pronounced deceased at the scene. Captain Velega was pronounced deceased shortly after his arrival at the hospital emergency room.

American Samoa: Mike A. Tipoti, 44 Rank: Captain Incident Date: April 30, 2020 Death Date: April 30, 2020 Fire Department: American Samoa Fire Bureau Division of the Department of Public Safety Initial Summary: After responding to a residential fire, Captain Mike Tipoti and Captain Allen Velega were returning to the firehouse when the apparatus they were in crashed at a sharp curve after coming down a mountain road. Captain Tipoti, who was driving the apparatus, was pronounced deceased at the scene. Captain Velega was pronounced deceased shortly after his arrival at the hospital emergency room.

Florida: Donald DiPetrillo, 70 Rank: Fire Chief Incident Date: March 2, 2020 Death Date: April 30, 2020 Fire Department: Seminole Tribe of Florida Fire

Rescue Initial Summary: In early March of this year, while on official duty, Fire Chief Donald DiPetrillo was attending the EMS Today Conference in Tampa, Florida, where he contracted COVID-19, traced by the Department of Health. He subsequently died from the virus on Thursday, April 30, 2020.

New York: Andrew DiMaggio, 57 Rank: Fire Captain Incident Date: April 5, 2020 Death Date: May 3, 2020 Fire Department: New Rochelle Fire Department Initial Summary: Fire Captain Andrew DiMaggio contracted COVID-19 during the course of his official duties at the firehouse.

New Jersey: David Clark, 47 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: March 21, 2020 Death Date: April 17, 2020 Fire Department: Bay Head Fire Company Initial Summary: While on official duty, Firefighter David Clark contracted COVID-19 from the firehouse and subsequently passed away.

Missouri: David F. Jameson, Jr., 52 Rank: Firefighter/Hazmat Technician Incident Date: May 7, 2020 Death Date: May 7, 2020 Fire Department: Independence Fire Department Initial Summary: On May 7, 2020, at approximately 1300hrs, Firefighter/Hazmat Technician David F. Jameson, Jr., from the Independence Fire Department, responded to a report of a residential fire. Upon arrival, he was not feeling well and was experiencing shortness of breath. He remained in the truck while others addressed the fire, which was determined to be an illegal open burn. When the crew returned to the pumper, Firefighter/Hazmat Technician Jameson became unresponsive. Medical care was immediately provided and he was transported to the Centerpoint Medical Center where he later passed away. The cause of death has not yet been determined.

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

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

DALE FEEHRER

The Friendship Fire Co. #1 of Geigertown operates this 2009 Ferrara Igniter Quint (1500/500/20A/77') as Ladder 24. This piece was formally Quint 221 of North Richland Hills, TX.

DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY

Engine/Rescue 15 of Centre County is a 2002 Spartan/Quality with 2000/750/30 Foam. Port Matilda's Engine Rescue formerly ran at Lower Chichester in Delaware County.

EDWARD LIZEWSKI

Deputy Fire Chief Mike Glore leads suppression efforts at the Reading Rent-A-Center, 307 Penn St., where companies were dispatched for an alarm activation and were greeted with a fire in the showroom.

Fire Alarm Activation Saves Reading Rental Center Reading, PA - Reading Engine 3 and Ladder 1 were dispatched for an alarm activation at 307 Penn Street on the morning of July 23rd.

As companies made the short response from their quarters, crew observed fire through the plate glass windows and radioed for assistance. As the box alarm was transmitted, crews began gaining access to the one-story building and hose lines were being stretched to attack

JUMP TO FILE #072420103 the fire.

The fire was knocked down quickly and the smoke-filled building was searched for occupants. All searches were clear and no injuries were reported. Companies remained on scene to ventilate the building.

The fire was contained to the showroom, and all other contents in the rear storage were saved. The Fire Marshal's Office is investigating.

As a side note, the building's fire alarm system had just been upgraded which proved vital in saving the contents.

- JASON BATZ

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.

ALAN HOFFMAN

This 1988 Mack/E One rescue unit is in service with the Lebanon County Emergency Management Agency. It once saw service with the Union Hose Company of Annville, PA.

DALE FEEHRER

The newly formed Alliance Fire & Rescue (Red Lion, PA and Felton, PA) in York County have acquired this 1994 Seagrave 100' rearmount ladder that formally served the Glenside Fire Co. #1 in Montgomery County, PA.

KEN SNYDER

Aerial 21 of the Topton Fire Co. on scene at a two-alarm chemical plant fire in Mertztown back on February 17th.

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

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FIREFIGHTER PROFILES If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Firefighter Profiles” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

Congratulations to Reading Firefighters Andrew Kutz and Thomas Sheetz on their retirements!

Andrew Kutz was hired in April of 1994. After completing the fire academy, Kutz was assigned to the B platoon as a Jumper Firefighter. Over the next 14 years, Andrew would work in various positions in the department with the platoon. In November of 2010, FF Kutz was assigned to Tower 1 on the B, first as the firefighter/bucketman and then the driver in February of 2018. FF Andrew Kutz served the city for more than 26 years remaining on the B platoon.

Tom Sheetz was hired in June of 1997. After completing the fire academy, Sheetz was assigned to Engine 5 on the A platoon. FF Sheetz spent the next several years on the Engine under the tutelage of FF Bruce Briner. Tom would transfer to the B platoon in October of 2008 when he took an assignment on Engine 1. FF Sheetz transferred back to the A platoon in January of 2011 when he accepted a position on Engine 3. In February of 2017, Tom moved across the floor to drive Ladder 1. FF Tom Sheetz served the city for more than 23 years.

We wish them the best of luck!

- JASON BATZ

DAVE BUTCHER/ENGINE 72 PHOTOGRAPHY

Quick Knockdown by Freeland Firefighters Freeland, PA - The Freeland Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 706 Ridge Street on July 22nd, and once on scene, they called for a working fire response. On arrival, they encountered heavy smoke and flames from the second floor of a two-story duplex.

The working fire box brought out Freeland Fire, who responded with two engines and a truck com-

JUMP TO FILE #072320100 pany, Freeland Fire Police, Hazle Township Vol. Fire Department, White Haven Fire Department, Valley Regional Fire and Rescue, and Lehigh Valley Health Network Medic 11.

The Freeland Fire Department was performing training when the

fire call came in and were on the scene in just a few minutes and able to knock the fire down quickly. This kept the fire from spreading to the second unit in the building.

Both units suffered smoke damage, with the bulk of the damage to the fire unit. The American Red Cross provided assistance to the residents.

- DAVID BUTCHER

JASON BATZ

Reading Firefighters Tom Sheetz and Andrew Kutz pose after working a job on South 10th Street in 2018.

TERRY RITZ

Accident with Injuries on Gravel Pike in Upper Hanover Twp.

Upper Hanover Twp., PA - On Sunday, June 28th at 1:15 P.M., East Greenville Fire Co. was dispatched to an accident with injuries on Gravel Pike, near Zeigler Road in the township. Upon arrival they had two vehicles with damage and one injured female. Details of the injuries and the cause of the accident are pending the outcome of the investigation. Assisting East Greenville were Fire Police from East Greenville and Pennsburg Fire Companies. Also assisting were PA State Police, Bally EMS and Upper Perk EMTs.

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

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STILL IN SERVICE

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

DALE FEEHRER

The Chief Logan VFD continues to operate this 1992 Spartan/LTI (2000/300/100') as Truck 4. Truck 4 is stationed at the Highland Park quarters.

BRADLEY LEAS

Reading Engine 7 arrived with fire out the rear of this vacant dwelling at 136 Greenwich St., 7/17/20.

Second-Alarm Transmitted at Vacant House in Reading Reading, PA - On the evening of Friday, July 17th, dispatchers from the Berks County DES call center began receiving multiple calls reporting a house on fire at Greenwich and Pear Streets.

Engine 7 arrived at a threestory EOR vacant building with fire showing from the rear. With the building boarded up, firefighters attacked the fire from the outside until the arrival of a ladder company. Crews began working on removing the plywood cover-

JUMP TO FILE #071820110 ings and placing portable ladders.

Crews stretched hose lines into the structure and began a search. Neighbors advised that a homeless individual may possibly still be inside. Crews reported the fire extended into the third floor and roof.

With temperatures in the midhigh 90's, Deputy Chief Stoudt

(Car 4) requested a second-alarm.

All searches were clear, and the fire was placed under control at 6:13 P.M. Several firefighters were treated for heat exhaustion, with some transported to Reading Hospital. Units from Spring, West Reading, and Muhlenberg Township assisted. The Fire Marshal's Office is investigating.

- JASON BATZ

BUDDY SHOTS

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

CALEB SUMMERS

Kitchen Fire Spreads on North 9th St. in Reading

Reading, PA - With B platoon firefighters two hours into their first day shift on July 17th, a box alarm was transmitted for 352 North 9th Street. As companies responded dispatchers advised that there was a kitchen fire on the second floor. Engine 1 arrived at a two-and-a-half story EOR multiple dwelling with smoke showing from a second floor window. Firefighters stretched a line into the structure and located the fire in a rear kitchen. The fire had extended into a void above the ceiling and traveled around a rain roof. Ladder crews had difficult work tunneling through several layers of old roof coverings to expose and extinguish the fire. All searches of the building were clear. No injuries were reported. The fire was placed under control nearly 45 minutes later. The Fire Marshal's Office is investigating.

The 2020 Reading Fire Department recruit class poses at the York County Fire School before starting a live-fire drill.

JASON BATZ

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

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

The Paxtonia Fire Company is located in the center of Lower Paxton Township, where they share the township with two other companies (Colonial Park #33 & Linglestown #35). Together, all three companies cover 28.17-square-miles and serve close to 50,000 residents all within Lower Paxton Twp. The number is greatly increased daily with commuters to the numerous shopping centers, a hospital, and the heavily traveled Rt. 22 and Interstate 81 being covered by the three companies.

The Paxtonia Fire Co. was founded in 1937. This company moved a few times to different locations throughout Paxtonia

(2.3-square-miles) over the years, once due to a fire claiming the building in 1953. The current quarters are located at 125 S. Johnson Street, where they moved to in 1977.

Today, Station 34 operates with 25 active members and responds to between 500-600 runs annually, both in and out of the township. The all-Seagrave fleet consists of an engine, engine-rescue, a tractor-drawn ladder, and a utility which is a Ford.

(Thanks to Mr. Shutt, "Tank", and the members of 34 for the info.)

- DALE FEEHRER

Station 34

Engine 34: 2009 Seagrave (1500/500/25A/15B).

DALE FEEHRER

Truck 34: 2017 Seagrave TDA 100'.

DALE FEEHRER

DALE FEEHRER

Engine 34-1: 1998 Seagrave (1750/500/Amkus). *Being replaced

DALE FEEHRER

New Engine 34-1: 2019 Seagrave (1500/500/Hurst).

DALE FEEHRER

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1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

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.

DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY

The Mount Pleasant Fire Co. in Washington County operates this 2009 Ford F-450/Keystone with a portable pump, 250 water and 20 foam, as Brush 41.

Crews stretch lines into the building.

JC KRIESHER

Saint Clair Finds Back of Home on Fire

ALAN HOFFMAN

This 2017 GMC pickup is in service with the Hereford Fire Co. as Utility 58.

DALE FEEHRER

The Maytown/East Donegal Twp. FD operates this 2015 Ford F-550 rescue unit, equipped with Amkus extrication tools and a 12KW hydraulic generator.

Schuylkill County, PA – At 2:50 P.M. on Monday, June 8th, Schuylkill County 9-1-1 dispatched a structure assignment to 406 South 2nd Street in Saint Clair for a house fire. Fire District 62 (Saint Clair) JUMP TO FILE# and 68 Station 4 070620119 (Good Will) were due on the call.

Chief 62 arrived to find a working fire with fire showing from the back porch of a duplex. The Chief assumed command and hit the fire with a water can. Neighbors stretched a garden hose to the back of the house as Ladder 62-23 arrived and stretched a hand line.

Engine 62-12 arrived with 6814 and positioned behind the ladder while 68-14 secured a water supply from a hydrant. Firefighters stretched two lines into the front door and were able to knock down the fire inside.

Command requested RIT from Pottsville, which brought Pottsville Stations 10 and 30 to the scene.

Crews searched the second floor and attic for extension and cleared windows on the way.

Brown smoke was seen emanating from the windows, but it was just residual smoke as the fire was knocked down.

The fire was placed under control around 3:30 P.M. - JC KRIESHER

DALE FEEHRER

The FD of Lower Swatara Twp. operates this 2015 Ford F-550 utility with a Polybuilt Body that carries an inflatable raft (Boat 59-1).

JC KRIESHER

Smoke and flames escape from the back of a house on 2nd St. in Saint Clair as firefighters arrive on scene.

Visit 1st Responder on the Web at www.1RBN.com

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Crews Battle Fully Involved Barn Fire in East Nantmeal Twp. East Nantmeal Twp., PA - At 1:24 P.M. on June 24th, Twin Valley FD and multiple mutual aid companies were dispatched to Hedge Road in East Nantmeal Twp. for a possible barn fire.

The Chester County Emergency JUMP TO FILE# Services Center re- 062420113 ceived a call from a passerby on the turnpike that saw a barn on fire in the area of mile marker 303.5. The dispatcher used that information to direct crews to a farm on Hedge Road. While enroute, Ambulance 89-1 advised Chester that they could see a column of smoke.

Due to multiple calls and the ambulance's report, Chester upgraded the assignment to a working fire. Deputy 69 requested a tanker task force to be dispatched.

Ambulance 89-1 arrived and reported a 50'x50' barn that was well involved and threatening a propane tank.

Deputy 69 arrived and assumed command on central ops 1.

Ludwigs Corner Engine 73-2, Glenmoore Engine 48-5 and Twin Valley Engine 69-1 all arrived less

than a minute from each other.

Crews stretched attack lines off of Engine 73-2 while Engine 48-5 supplied water and Engine 69-1 laid a supply line into the scene from the main road. Crews immediately began dousing the propane tank to protect it as other lines began putting water on the fire.

Crews quickly discovered that the fire had already extended into a second barn that was connected to the initial barn. While heavy water lines were used to try and halt the fire's progress, crews were unable to stop the second barn from becoming fully involved. At that point crews began focusing on protecting a third barn that was beginning to catch fire.

Due to the heavy fire load a second-alarm tanker task force was requested to the scene for additional water supply. At 2:30 P.M., the structural integrity of the second barn began to deteriorate, and the evacuation tones were put out to clear firefighters from all buildings in the complex. Crews began an exclusively defensive attack as the amount of available water decreased. Once a constant water supply was established, crews were able to quickly knock down a bulk of the fire in both barns.

Even though a majority of the fire was out, crews stayed out of the barns until an excavator arrived to assist with overhaul. The excavator arrived and began tearing through debris in the second barn as crews extinguished hot spots. Once crews

finished dealing with all the hot spots, the excavator was brought to the initial barn which was full of hay.

Crews worked for over an hour digging through the massive pile of hay and dousing hot spots. Once the

hot spots were extinguished crews began breaking down hand and supply lines. Crews cleared the scene at 9:29 P.M., just over eight hours after the initial call.

TVFD

- LUCAS RICHARDSON

Congratulations to Goodwill Fire Company in Laceyville PA. On July 25, 2020 they took delivery of 6 new TNT Storm Series battery powered Rescue Tools. Their Brute Force Cutters, 28” Spreaders and 40” Rams will allow them to provide excellent protection to their community. Twin Tier Fire and Safety Services in Montrose PA is honored to assist Goodwill Fire Company with this important purchase. We have partnered with First Out Rescue Equipment to offer top quality rescue products in the Northern Tier of Pennsylvania. Call or text Jim Conboy 570-767-1018 or Pat Conboy at 570-468-9621 for help with your next rescue product purchase. To see all the products available check out Firstoutrescue.com.

14180 State Route 267 • Montrose, PA 18801

Office: 570-934-2296 • Cell: 570-767-1018 • twintierfiresafetyservices@gmail.com

www.twintierfireandsafetyservice.com

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1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

WORKING FACES

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

TOM ENGLISH

Reading Firefighters prepare equipment after being requested by the PD to assist in apprehending a subject who had jumped into the Schuylkill River to avoid questioning.

Firefighters Assist Police Department with Incident in Schuylkill River

JC KRIESHER

Saint Clair Fire Chief Frank Uhrin directs crews at the scene of a house fire.

Reading, PA - On Tuesday, June 30th, police officers made contact with an individual who appeared under the influence. While being questioned, the man ran from the officers and dove into the Schuylkill River.

The officers requested assistance from firefighters at 3:15 P.M. Deputy Chief Stoudt (C4) arrived at the Bingaman Street bridge and made visual contact with the subject,

JUMP TO FILE #070220107 who was actively swimming away from the police. Firefighters entered the water in an attempt to convince the subject to go with them, which caused him to swim further away.

Crews took positions around and in the water to monitor the individual. Eventually, the subject be-

came fatigued and began to swim to the shore. Officers immediately took custody of the subject while firefighters set up a low-angle rope system to bring them back up to the roadway.

The subject was transported to Reading Hospital for evaluation. No injuries were reported. Units were on scene for nearly an hour.

- JASON BATZ

FUTURE FIRST RESPONDERS

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

JC KRIESHER

Shenandoah FF Frank Gallo approaches the scene of a fire in Girardville.

DALE FEEHRER

The Middletown VFD has added two new future members to their department family. Rhett at 2months-old (left), is the son to Lieutenant Zach C. and Jailynne G.; and on the right is 4-month-old Jaxson, the son of trustee Chris C. and fiancée Amanda E. Both Rhett and Jaxson are doing well and looking forward to joining in less than 14 years.

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

August, 2020

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Deal with the stress or it will deal with you Chaplain's Corner Didymus McHugh

As I go through my day, I think about how frustrated people get and that some people may not have the right way to express themselves. I have seen where some people may be destructive and others may be able to find the correct constructive outlets. We all need to find the way that is our proper stress management.

Some people may enjoy yoga or certain mindfulness activities.

Some of us may be a little more physical, like running, weight lifting, or working on construction jobs until we are exhausted.

We need to explore for ourselves what avenue is best for us.

If we do not get a chance to work out out stress, it can take us out. Stress may show up in ways that we do not want. Stress untreated is like when you take a bottle of a carbonated drink, after you just shook it for a half an hour. You try to open it slowly and not get sprayed but you need to be very diligent. Stress may rear its ugly head in the form of a heart attack or other physical ailments or may play a number on your mind. You may not be able to concentrate or the slightest thing can get you angry. There are many ways that stress will come out.

Right now people are experiencing a lot of stress and we need to limit the stress. Please make sure that you have your personal space and personal things to release stress. Many people may want to try stress relief like others but we also need to remember that stress is individualized. One incident may cause stress for one per-

Bob Long

son but not the next, so it is only logical that one way of relieving stress may not work for the next person.

Think about constructive ways about releasing stress. If you need help, there are people around who are willing to guide you or listen.

Sometimes we can learn how to handle the stress by talking to others Stay safe,

Didymus McHugh didymus-mchugh.com

PS. If you will, contact me and let me know the way that you handled stress prior to the pandemic and the way that you are now handling stress. I am curious as to if and how people's stress management has changed.

TERRY RITZ

Commercial Building Fire in Upper Hanover Twp. Upper Hanover Twp., PA - On Thursday, July 9th at 8:20 P.M., East Greenville Fire Company, along with several other fire companies in the Upper Perk Valley, were dispatched to a building fire on Blommer Dr. in the township.

Upon arrival, Chief 38 had smoke showing from the rear of the building. He called Montgomery County Dispatch to put in a second-alarm for additional help because of the severity of the fire and the heat and humid conditions at the present time.

Some small flames were visible, but were quickly doused with hand lines on the upper part of the building. The fire was brought under control within the half hour.

JUMP TO FILE #071020105 There were no injuries reported and the cause of the fire is pending the outcome of an investigation.

Assisting East Greenville Fire Co. were Pennsburg, Red Hill, Green Lane, Hereford, Eastern Berks, Milford Twp., Siesholtzville and Trumbauersville.

Upper Perk, Harleysville and Bally EMS units along with Fire Police from East Greenville, Pennsburg, Red Hill and Siesholtzville also responded.

- TERRY RITZ

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

TOM ENGLISH

Reading Tower 1 works from this tight street during a fatal fire back on Saturday morning, February 22nd.

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August, 2020

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

Vehicle News

GEOFFREY WETHERHOLD

FRANK ROBINSON

DALE FEEHRER

DALE FEEHRER

A. GETKA

DAVE BUTCHER/ENGINE 72 PHOTOGRAPHY

The Weavertown Fire Co. has placed in to service this Coolbaugh Twp. Fire Company now operates this 2020 The City Hook & Ladder of Lewistown has placed this 2019 Seagrave Rescue Pumper with a 2000-GPM pump, Sutphen Heavy Rescue.

2020 E-One Typhoon (1500/530/Hurst) rescue-engine 1000-gallon tank and 60-gallon foam tank. into service.

The Hershey FD has taken delivery of the state's first Pierce Ascendant tower. Truck 48 is a 2020 Pierce Arrow XT with a 100' mid-mount Ascendant aerial. A special thanks to the members of the Hershey FD for their assistance and information.

The Lower Providence FD has taken delivery of a 2020 The Harwood Fire Co. added a 1998 Seagrave to their Pierce Ascendant 100' mid-mount Tower Ladder on a Ve- fleet. The rig saw previous service with the Bethpage FD locity cab with seating for 6. The new Tower 53 will be and is in service as Engine 241-1. in service after equipment mounting and all requisite training is completed.

Crews Battle Greenhouse Fire in Lower Nazareth Twp. Lower Nazareth Twp., PA Firefighters from Lower Nazareth, Nazareth and Upper Nazareth responded to the Blue Barn Nursery on Hollo Road on May 12th for a reported structure fire.

Crews arrived JUMP TO FILE# on scene to find a 062820119 well involved greenhouse. Two lines were stretched and put in to operation, and crews were able to make a quick knock on the fire. They remained on scene for about an hour mopping up.

- DENNIS WETHERHOLD, JR.

Firefighters battle a working greenhouse fire at Blue Barn Nursery on May 12th in Lower Nazareth Twp.

DENNIS WETHERHOLD JR.

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

August, 2020

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August, 2020

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

Haz-Mat and Decon Apparatus of the New York City Fire Department ON THE BOOK SHELF

by John Malecky

Haz-Mat And Decon Apparatus of the New York City Fire Department

By John A. Calderone Available from: FSP Books & Videos 188 Central Street, Suite #4 Hudson, MA 01749-1330 1-800-522-8528 E-mail: support@fire-policeems.com www.fire-police-ems.com Price: $34.95

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This is a soft cover book from Fire Apparatus Journal, measuring 8 ½ inches by 11 inches, with 80 pages. It is a chronological history of the organization of the fire department’s hazmat operations.

There are 3 ½ pages of text to bring you through the early days to the present.

Hazardous materials have always been with us and in the fire service we have dealt with the incidents to the best of our knowledge and abilities with the resources at our disposal. I have known the author for 40+ years and can say without reservation that he is a person of accurate detail when it comes to writing about apparatus. This book is another example of his accurate reporting with the help of other sources which he acknowledges.

Rescue Company 1, organized in 1915, answered hazardous material alarms in addition of course to the other types of alarms fire and rescue emergencies. Photos of two vehicles which made up the early stages of hazmat apparatus are included, though they were not designated as such. The history has to be read carefully because much has changed and expanded since the first dedicated Hazmat 1 was organized in 1984 after responsibilities had previously been handled by rescue companies with Rescue 4 being the primary response unit with a second piece running as a support vehicle. As time went on more support units were added and they included decontamination units, containment trailers, tenders, utility units, an asbestos removal truck, and later a vast amount of other specialized apparatus when EMS was absorbed into the fire department. If I am starting to lose you or confuse you, do not worry. All of this detail is included in these pages.

I should mention that not all of the newly added vehicles were new. Some were donated after 911-01 to help replace destroyed apparatus from the collapses. Others were reassigned form other designated duties and still others were refurbished and redesigned from existing trucks. One tractor was actually acquired from the police pound. In addition, the vintages of much of these used trucks do not match the years that they were put in service, but again, the author has worked all of that out for you to relax and enjoy the book. With few exceptions the photos are full page and all but two are color. This is another book that has hit a home run within Fire Apparatus Journal Publications.

READINGPAFIRE.COM

Reading Firefighters were dispatched to 10th & Greenwich for a building fire, 7/1/20. Crews arrived with fire in a laundromat and people trapped in the apartments above.

Reading Firefighters Rescue Man During Building Fire Reading, PA - On the evening of July 1st, dispatchers at the Berks County Dept. of Emergency Services received several calls reporting a fire at a laundromat at 9th & Greenwich Streets.

Tower 1 arrived with smoke showing from a laundromat at 10th & Greenwich and advised all units of the difference in the address.

Chief Stoudt (C4) arrived and assumed command at the three-story mixed occupancy.

JUMP TO FILE #070220106 Neighbors reported people trapped in the apartments above the laundromat. Crews stretched a hoseline into the building and put a quick hit on the fire that was extending into the ceiling above a bank of clothes dryers. Firefighters laddered the building and made their way into the upper floors searching for occupants.

One person was found on the second floor and removed quickly. Several kittens were also located by members from Rescue 1 who brought them outside without incident.

The fire was placed under control at 10:27 P.M. The occupant was transported to Reading Hospital for treatment. No other injuries were reported, and the Fire Marshal's Office is investigating.

- JASON BATZ

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

DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY

Indiana County's Commodore Fire Department still operates this 1993 HME/Quality as Engine 543. It has a 1250-GPM pump and carries 1000-gallons of water.

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

August, 2020

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August, 2020

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

MEMORIAL BOARD

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

FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY

Pitcairn Crews Arrive to Working Attic Fire

Pitcairn, PA – At 7:03 P.M. on July 27th, firefighters were dispatched to a report of smoke coming from the roof of a house located in the area of 12th Street and Brinton Avenue. Pitcairn's Chief arrived to find a working fire in a two-and-a-half story, single-family home, with smoke and fire showing from the roofline. Crews arrived and quickly went to work bringing the fire under control by 7:38 P.M. Crews then remained on-scene for overhaul and ventilation. No one was injured. The displaced family was being helped by relatives. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Forest Hills, PA - Chief Robert A. Full passed suddenly on Friday, July 17th. Chief Full led a dedicated lifelong career on the local, city, county and state levels.

Chief Full began his career as a Junior Firefighter and was a life member of the department. He then joined the City of Pittsburgh Emergency Medical Services, where he was instrumental in it’s development, working his way up to Assistant Chief of Rescue.

Chief Full served as President of the Pennsylvania Association of HazMat Technicians from 1997-1999, and was also the Director of it’s Western Region. In the late 90’s, Chief Full joined Allegheny County and eventually became its first Chief of Emergency Services, where he oversaw the Allegheny County Fire Marshall’s Office, Allegheny County 9-1-1 Center and Allegheny County Emergency Management Office.

In 2011, Chief Full became the Assistant Director of Pennsyl-

FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY

vania Emergency Management Agency, a position he served until 2018. He then took a position at Specialized Professional Services, Inc., working as the Director of Safety and Special Projects, a position he held from 2015 until his recent retirement in June of 2020.

ON THE LITER SIDE

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

Chief Full was instrumental in the development of the current Allegheny County 9-1-1 Center, the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Emergency Medical Services Rescue Division and the Pennsylvania Urban Search and Rescue Strike Team 1.

Chief Full is survived by his wife of 34 years, Geraldine, his children, Courtney Spicuzza and Robert “Rob” Full, and three grandchildren, Ricky, Vincent and Livia Spicuzza.

Chief Full’s funeral procession and final call were held on Thursday, July 23rd. He will be greatly missed by many throughout the region and state.

- ERIC RASMUSSEN

DALE FEEHRER

As members from the Blue Rock Fire/Rescue were concluding training, a baseball game was also finishing up. The tee ball players from a nearby field were given an opportunity to cool off as temps at game time were in the mid-90's. Pictured is Chief Ditzler operating the "blitz fire" for both kids and coaches.

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

August, 2020

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