1st Responder PA February Edition

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FEBRUARY, 2017

MVA WITH HEAVY ENTRAPMENT IN EAST DONEGAL TWP.

TIMOTHY COOVER

East Donegal Twp., PA - Crews from Maytown/East Donegal Township, Rheems and Marietta Pioneer Fire Departments were dispatched for an MVA into a structure with entrapment on December 16, 2016.

Chief-791 arrived on the scene with a single vehicle into a tree and on it's side, with three people trapped.

- See full story on page 14

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February, 2017

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

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Hoffman Radio Network

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Kimtek

Dwelling Fire in East Greenville

East Greenville, PA - On December 23, 2016 at 8:32 P.M., the East Greenville Fire Co. was dispatched to a dwelling fire in the 500 block of Blaker Dr., in the Colonial Village section of the boro. When Chief-38 arrived, he had smoke showing and after entering the home, found a kitchen fire which was quickly extinguished. Smoke from the fire was in the interior of the home. Exhaust fans were used to help in ventilation of the home, along with the opening of the windows. There were no injuries reported. Assisting East Greenville was Pennsburg Fire Co. and Upper Perk Police.

JIM ALERCIA

Palmer Township Firefighters Battle House Fire

Palmer, PA - Palmer Township Municipal Fire Department operated at a residential fire on November 22, 2016. This was a long day for Township firefighters, as they had just cleared from assisting their police department with an overnight homicide investigation at the time this incident was dispatched.

9

Long Island Mega Show

23

Spotted Dog Tech.

17

Sutphen

21

Task Force Tips

3

The Fire Store

7

Waterway

TERRY RITZ

19

CORPORATE INFORMATION

1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - Pennsylvania edition - Vol. 21 No. 2 - 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 in error. Omissions or errors must be A division of: brought to the attention of the newspaper during the s a m e month of publication.

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JASON BATZ

Car Versus Tree in Cumru Township

Cumru Twp., PA - On Monday, January 2nd, the Berks County Department of Emergency Services received a call reporting a vehicle accident in the 600 block of Madison Street in Cumru.

Firefighters from Cumru, Shillington and Spring Township were dispatched to the incident as additional 911 calls to the center reported a female occupant unable to move her legs.

Chief James Seiger (Deputy 42-1), arrived to find a sedan flipped around and into a tree, with the driver injured. Units assisted EMS with the extrication of the occupant into a Southern Berks Ambulance. Crews were available within 30 minutes.

ANDREW KUTZ

SUV Crashes into Porch on Perkiomen Avenue Reading, PA - On December 30, 2016 the Berks County Department of Emergency Services dispatched companies to the 1400 block of Perikiomen Avenue for a vehicle into a structure. Engine-1 arrived with an SUV into the front porch of 1408 Perikiomen Avenue, with two other porches damaged as well. Firefighters tended to the driver who was then transported to Reading Hospital Trauma Center. The city building inspector was requested to the scene to evaluate the integrity of the homes. Chief Born was in command (C-5).

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

February, 2017

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Vacant Farmhouse Destroyed by Fire in Adams County Arendtsville, PA - On the afternoon of December 24, 2016 Adams County 911 received a single call from a passerby reporting a house on fire on Flohrs Church Road in Franklin Township.

Emergency crews on Box 5-4 were JUMP TO FILE# dispatched out on 122616101 the assignment at 4:55 P.M. The caller advised the dispatch center that a farmhouse was fully engulfed in flames.

Firefighters were able to see a large column of smoke emanating from the area as they approached the scene. Chief Mark Fulton from Arendtsville arrived to find a two-and-a-half story house with heavy fire conditions. Chief Fulton reported his findings to dispatch and established Command-5. Firefighters arrived and worked to battle the blaze with an aggressive attack as incoming crews worked to establish a water supply, utilizing a pond for a drafting site near the residence.

Firefighters battling the blaze gained quick control, as they were able to get a bulk of the fire knocked within 15-minutes of their arrival on the scene. Firefighters made entry and conducted searches of the farmhouse, which all came up negative. Firefighters worked for an additional 20-minutes to extinguish the fire, which was reported under control by command at 5:38 P.M. The farmhouse, which was located northwest of Gettysburg, was later confirmed to be a vacant property. Firefighters were committed on the scene for nearly two-and-a-half hours working the incident, conducting extensive salvage and overhaul operations, while also checking for further extension and extinguishing hot spots throughout the house.

The farmhouse sustained heavy damage on the "Charlie" side of the structure, with heavy smoke and water damage throughout the house. Pennsylvania State Fire Marshals were called in to investigate the cause of the blaze. No one was injured during the incident and the cause is currently under investigation.

Approximately 30 Fire and EMS personnel responded out to the incident, including Arendtsville Community Fire Co. 5, receiving assistance from Cashtown Community Fire Co. 4, Biglerville Hose & Truck Co. 6, Bendersville Community Fire Co. 7 and Buchanan Valley Fire Co. 27.

TYLER WEIKERT

- WILLIAM KING

TYLER WEIKERT

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

February, 2017

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JEFF LECOMPTE

Vehicle Fire on Eaton Avenue Quickly Knocked Bethlehem, PA - Bethlehem firefighters made quick work of a car fire on Eaton Avenue, near Kaywin, on December 26, 2016. No injuries were reported.

Crews work to extinguish burning diesel fuel after the crash on Interstate-80.

J. LENNON

Driver Dies in Lake Harmony Tractor-Trailer Crash Lake Harmony, PA - On December 28, 2016 while out on a working dwelling fire in Holiday Pocono, fire companies were dispatched to a reported tractor-trailer crash with explosions and fire on Interstate-80, located around the 276 eastbound mile-marker. Rescue-17 responded from the station while Tanker-17 was released from the dwelling fire in order to respond, along with units from White Haven and Tobyhanna.

JUMP TO FILE #122816101 Upon arrival, Rescue and Deputy-17 found a fully involved tractor-trailer, with fire showing from the rear of the second truck.

White Haven's engine began extinguishing the massive fire, along with the units from Tobyhanna.

Additional units were called in from Dennison Twp. and Tunkhan-

nock. Engine-17 was eventually released from the dwelling fire and responded to assist with overhaul.

One of the drivers was found dead in the wreckage. Units were on-scene for over six hours. The Interstate was closed while waiting for clean up crews to arrive, who removed the cargo of lunch meats and the two vehicles.

- JOSEPH LENNON

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

JASON BATZ

Comru Twp. MVA Leaves Four Occupants Confined

Cumru Twp., PA - On December 30, 2016 the Berks County Department of Emergency Services dispatched crews to the 2200 block of Lancaster Pike for an accident with entrapment.

Southern Berks Medic-6828 arrived to find a minivan rolled into a car, with four occupants confined. Firefighters from Spring Township and Shillington assisted EMS with stabilizing the van and assisting with removing the occupants. All occupants were extricated within 10 minutes and transported to the Reading Hospital for further treatment.

Chambersburg, PA - Lifenet-81 preparing for transport to York.

SHANE SHIFFLETT

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February, 2017

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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

Montana: Darryl Elden “Poor Boy” Vielle, 51 Rank: Crew Boss/Engine Boss Incident Date: November 30, 2016 Death Date: November 30, 2016 Fire Department: Blackfeet Forestry and Fire Management Initial Summary: While serving on the Maple Spring wildfire in North Carolina, Blackfeet Nation Fire Management Crew Boss/Engine Boss Darryl Elden “Poor Boy” Vielle was found deceased in his motel room on the morning of November 30, 2016.

The Blackfeet Forestry and Fire Management crew has been supporting firefighters in North Carolina since November 10th.

Michigan: Thomas Gary Walker, 70 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: November 27, 2016 Death Date: November 27, 2016 Fire Department: Otsego County Fire Department Initial Summary: Later in the day after responding with his fire department to an early morning carbon monoxide alarm, Firefighter Walker collapsed at home and was transported to the hospital where he was pronounced deceased from a nature and cause of fatal injury still to be reported.

Washington: Charles “Doug” Archer, 49 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: November 28, 2016 Death Date: Pending Fire Department: Spokane County Fire District 8 Initial Summary: After responding with his fire department to a residential fire and an aid call, Firefighter Archer returned to his residence to rest where he succumbed in his sleep.

South Carolina: Jeffery A. Worsham, 45 Rank: Assistant Fire Chief Incident Date: December 2, 2016 Death Date: December 10, 2016 Fire Department: Whitesville Rural Volunteer

Fire Department Initial Summary: After responding to a motor vehicle accident call with the Whitesville Fire Department and then returning home, Assistant Fire Chief Jeffery A. Worsham was found in the morning by his spouse in cardiac arrest. The Whitesville Fire Department responded to Chief Worsham’s residence where he was treated and transported to the hospital but succumbed to his injury several days later.

Ohio: Ruben E. Mast, 43 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: December 19, 2016 Death Date: December 19, 2016 Fire Department: Wayne Township Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: Firefighter Ruben E. Mast was responding to an alarm in his privately owned Ford F-250 pickup truck when he lost control of the vehicle and struck a guardrail before overturning.

Mast was reported to have been ejected from the vehicle. He was transported by Wayne Township Volunteer Fire Department and Smith Ambulance to Union Hospital in Dover, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Oregon: Ray Rubio, 52 Rank: Firefighter/Smokejumper Incident Date: November 23, 2016 Death Date: December 19, 2016 Fire Department: Redmond Smokejumpers Redmond Air Center Deschutes National Forest Initial Summary: Firefighter/Smokejumper Ray Rubio passed away in the Grandview Hospital, Birmingham, Alabama, from injuries he suffered in a fall on November 23, 2016. Rubio, a Smokejumper (RAC 95) with the Redmond Air Center (RAC) - Deschutes National Forest, had been assigned to the Southeast during an outbreak of multiple large fires in the region. Firefighter Rubio was reported to have been in travel status on his way home to Oregon and staying overnight in Birmingham at the time of his injury.

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February, 2017

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Crews Battle Working Fire in Elizabethtown Borough Elizabethtown, PA - On January 9th, the Elizabethtown Fire Department along with mutual aid companies were dispatched for reports of a dwelling fire. The initial caller reported a JUMP TO FILE# deck on fire in the 011517100 rear of a singlefamily home.

Chief-74 arrived to the scene, found fire on the "Charlie" side of the home and the departments went to work.

Crews had the bulk of the fire knocked down and then went to work checking for extension. A PSP Fire Marshal was called to the scene to investigate the cause of the fire.

Elizabethtown Fire Department was assisted by the Bainbridge, Mount Joy, Middletown, Londonderry and Rheems Fire Departments.

- TIMOTHY COOVER

TIMOTHY COOVER

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February, 2017

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

SHANE SHIFFLETT

Mobile Home Fire Displaces Family in Quincy Township

ANTHONY MICCICKE

Generator Causes House Fire on Pricetown Road Ruscombmanor Twp., PA - While Ruscombmanor firefighters were hosting their annual Pork & Sauerkraut meal at the firehouse on January 1st, a generator erupted into fire across the street from the station. Deputy Fire Chief Sharliene Bowers dropped his cooking pans, made his way across the street to 3720 Pricetown Road and found a fire burning up the exterior of the home. A second-alarm was requested to bring additional help to the scene. The fire was knocked down quickly and units were made available again shortly after.

DID YOU K NOW The first known female firefighter in the U.S. was Molly Williams, a slave from New York, who fought fires side by side with men in 1815.

Quincy Twp., PA - On the afternoon of Friday, December 16th, Franklin County 911 took calls reporting a structure fire at 7326 Furnace Road in Quincy Township.

Units due on Box 5-02 from Franklin and Washington Counties were dispatched out on the call at 1:12 P.M. Franklin County 911 had reports of a mobile home fire. The initial call reporting the fire came from the residence.

Captain Joe Timmons of South Mountain Fire arrived shortly after dispatch to find a double-wide mobile home with heavy smoke coming from the structure. Captain Timmons worked to make contact with the family as Deputy Chief Dan Reed of Mont Alto Fire Company arrived and placed Command-5 in effect. Deputy Reed confirmed that he had a working fire and reported that all occupants were out of the residence.

Franklin County 911 immediately started the Working Fire dispatch after Deputy Reed’s report.

JUMP TO FILE #121816104 Firefighters from Fayetteville arrived, assumed the first-due engine position with Engine 7-1 and began fire attack, as Waynesboro Engine 21 hit the hydrant and supplied them with water. Due to heavy fire conditions upon Engine 7-1’s arrival, Command advised an exterior attack only.

Firefighters battled the blaze, gaining control approximately 15minutes after crew’s arrival on the scene. Firefighters were working hot spots when Command called for Franklin Dispatch to sound the evacuation tone and alert all crews to evacuate the trailer due to a ceiling collapse. Crews finally had the fire knocked down around 1:35 P.M., at which time Command was able to begin releasing a majority of the units on the scene. Firefighters were committed for an additional hour,

finishing up salvage and overhaul operations.

The residents of the structure were home at the time of the fire, but were able to safely evacuate and no injuries were reported. The displaced family received assistance from the American Red Cross. The mobile home was a total loss and the cause of the fire is under investigation.

Over 40 firefighters responded out on Box 5-02, including Mont Alto Fire Co. 5, which received assistance from Fayetteville Fire Co. 7, Waynesboro Fire Co. 2, New Franklin Fire Co. 17, South Mountain Fire Co. 16, Marion Fire & EMS Co. 8, Washington County Leitersburg Fire Co. 9, Greencastle Rescue Hose Co. 3, Franklin Station-4, Adams County Fountaindale Fire Co. 3, Chambersburg Fire Co. 1, Blue Ridge Summit EMS Co. 4, Adams County Buchanan Fire Co. 27 and Franklin County Air-10.

- WILLIAM KING

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

?

Chambersburg, PA - Holy Spirit EMS staging at a recent house fire.

SHANE SHIFFLETT

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

February, 2017

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HE HE ER ERO ROES RO OES ES INK INK

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.

1st Responder Newspape er features EMERGENCY SERVICES RELA ATED TATTOOS

SHANE SHIFFLETT

Chambersburg, PA - Chambersburg T-1 and Engine 1-4 operating at a recent structure fire on Elder Street.

Eric Moore has been a firefighter for almost 30 years, first joining the department in November of 1988. The tattoo he chose to get covers his entire back and took almost three months to complete, from September until November of 2014. When asked what inspired him to get this specific tattoo, Eric responded "my inspiration came from the love for my brothers lost on that fateful day and the need for a tribute, as well as my love for what we do and my love of ink." Eric currently works for Daly City Fire Department, located in Daly City, CA.

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

Lindsey@1strespondernews.com

Coudersport, PA - Coudersport Truck 48-9, a 2010 Spartan/Crimson 100' Ladder Tower, working at a recent Mutual Aid two-alarm fire in Roulette Twp., Potter County.

BRYAN PHELPS

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Cumru Twp., PA - Cumru Township Tower-42 working at an acquired structure in Lancaster County during a recent multi-company drill.

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

February, 2017

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Man Rescued from Burning Home in Reading Reading, PA - Late in the afternoon on January 1st, the Berks County Department of Emergency Services began receiving calls reporting a fire at 1707 Haak Street. With companies responding to Box-601, DES advised units that there was a JUMP TO FILE# physically disabled 010117109 man trapped in a second-floor bedroom. Chief Mogel requested an additional medic unit due to the information.

Chief Moyer (C9) and Engine1 arrived at a two-and-a-half story, end-of-row dwelling, with fire showing from the second-floor. As a line was stretched into the dwelling, firefighters aggressively searched the second-floor for the occupant. As water was put on the fire, the victim was found and Chief Moyer put the RIT company in service to assist. After the victim was removed to awaiting EMS personnel, a firefighter requested help due to chest pain and was assisted outside of the building.

Both the firefighter and the occupant were taken to Reading Hospital in serious condition. The fire was placed under control in 20minutes after gutting the front bedroom of the second-floor. The Fire Marshal's Office is investigating the cause.

- JASON BATZ

Firefighters arrived with fire blowing from the second-floor at 1707 Haak Street in East Reading.

ANTHONY MICCICKE

DAN WASSEL

Two Confined in Warren Street Bypass MVA

Firefighters and paramedics work to remove a fire victim from this home in East Reading.

ANTHONY MICCICKE

Reading, PA - Just before noon on Sunday, December 18th, firefighters on the "A" platoon were alerted for a car accident on Route-12, located near River Road. Multiple calls placed to Berks County Department of Emergency Services reported an SUV rolled over on the roadway. Engine-3 arrived at the scene and reported the accident to be in Muhlenberg Township, with two occupants confined. With Rescue-1 tied up on another run, Chief Lessar (C-6) advised Ladder-3 to stage for extrication and requested a second medic unit to the scene.

Firefighters extricated patient #1 at 11:35 A.M., and patient #2 at 11:37 A.M. Both occupants were taken to Reading Hospital Trauma Center for further treatment.

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

February, 2017

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MVA with Heavy Entrapment in East Donegal Twp. East Donegal Twp., PA Crews from Maytown/East Donegal Township, Rheems and Marietta Pioneer Fire Departments were dispatched for an MVA into a structure with entrapment on December 16, 2016.

Chief-791 arrived on the scene with a JUMP TO FILE# single vehicle into a 121816101 tree and on it's side, with three people trapped.

Rescue-791 arrived on the scene, stabilized the vehicle and started to gain access to the patients. Engine702 arrived and used the winch to the underside of the car, helping to stabilize the vehicle. As more crews arrived, they removed the sunroof and cut the A-posts and steering wheel in order to gain access. This enabled them to be able to spread the dash to remove the first patient. Crews then worked to remove the rest of the roof in order to gain access to the other two patients. Crews worked for 45-minutes, from the time the first rescue arrived, until the final patient was extracted from the vehicle.

- TIMOTHY COOVER

TIMOTHY COOVER

TIMOTHY COOVER

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

February, 2017

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February, 2017

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

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.

Berks County, PA - Former Boyertown Firefighter Jeff Carl was recently promoted to Lieutenant in Howard County, MD.

RAY CARL

Lansford, PA - American Fire Co. #1 of Lansford recently acquired this 1993 Pierce Lance Engine-1552 (2000/1000), from Lincoln Fire Co. of Ephrata, PA. DALE FEEHRER

Firefighters Use Aerial Ladder to Rescue Child from House Fire Reading, PA - On Friday, December 30th, the Berks County Department of Emergency Services began receiving calls reporting a house on fire in the 1200 block of North 10th Street. At 12:38 P.M., Box0902 was transmit- JUMP TO FILE# ted for a house fire 123116100 with children reported to be trapped inside.

Engine-9 and Ladder-3 arrived to find smoke showing from a twoand-a-half story, middle-of-row dwelling. A child was observed at an upper window, which quickly sent firefighters into motion, raising Ladder-3's aerial into position.

An additional medic unit was requested due to the entrapment reports.

A line was stretched into the dwelling, with firefighters searching the upper floors. The fire was located in a second-floor rear bedroom and placed under control at 1:34 P.M. All remaining children who were reported inside the structure were located safely outside of the home. The Fire Marshal's Office was called in to investigate the cause of the fire. Chief Born (C-5) was in command.

- JASON BATZ

RON FREY

Firefighters from Ladder-3 used their aerial to remove a child from this dwelling fire on North 10th Street in Reading.

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.

Monarch Fire Company operates a Chevy 75/150 Brush Truck.

FRANK ROBINSON

The Berwick Fire Department operates a 2003 Ford F350 water rescue unit, towing an 18' Crestline and a 13' Zodiak.

FRANK ROBINSON

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Two-Alarm Dwelling Fire in Elizabethtown

Elizabethtown, PA - On the morning of December 16th, the Elizabethtown Fire Department and Mutual Aid companies were dispatched for a reported dwelling fire. Crews arrived on the scene to find a two-story restaurant with fire showing on both floors. Due to the cold temperatures and amount of fire on arrival, command upgraded to a second-alarm immediately. The bulk of the fire on the first-floor was knocked down quickly, but due to the stairs being collapsed already, aerials were used to knock down the bulk of the remaining fire on the second-floor. Crews then used ground ladders to access the second-floor. Firefighters worked on-scene for about two-hours.

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

February, 2017

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1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

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1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

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.

JASON BATZ

Reading firefighters pose with Santa after filling Rescue-2 with toys.

Reading Firefighters Raise Over $4500 for Salvation Army Toy Drive

Reading, PA - In December, Reading firefighters finished their 8th annual toy drive, raising more than $4,500. The annual event started with a charity t-shirt sale through the help of Weikel's Sportswear. Additional donations were obtained through several local businesses and clubs. Toys were purchased through a Target store, and later used to fill a fire truck during a breakfast held at Trooper Thorns Irish Pub. All toys were donated to the Reading Salvation Army.

The Aston Beechwood Fire Department is located in Delaware County, PA.

EUGENE WEBER JR.

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

February, 2017

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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.

CHAD BLIMLINE

Cumru Twp., PA - Cumru Twp. Firefighter Jason Batz poses with WFMZ 69 News Reporter Alexandra Hogan after a vehicle accident.

Crews Find Marijuana Growing Operation While Fighting Fire Reading, PA - Early on the morning of Thursday, January 5th, the Berks County Department of Emergency Services received a phone call reporting smoke coming from a building at 9th and Walnut Streets. Box103 was transmitted JUMP TO FILE# at 3:53 A.M., send- 010817103 ing city companies into the area.

Engine-1 arrived at 205 North 9th Street with smoke showing from the rear of a deep, three-story, middle-of-row dwelling. A line was stretched into the second-floor of the building, where a bedroom fire was found and extending into the third-floor.

Multiple occupants were located and had to be evacuated from the structure.

A second line was stretched into the third-floor, where firefighters encountered a large marijuana growing operation. The fire was placed under control at 4:23 A.M., with all searches clear. No injuries were reported. The Reading Police and Fire Marshal's Office are investigating the cause of the fire.

- JASON BATZ

ANDREW KUTZ

Reading, PA - Members of the Reading Fire Dept. "B" platoon gathered after their shift for a Christmas photo.

Chaplain’s Corner Didymus McHugh

Grief

JAMES STOUDT

Reading, PA - Reading Fire Chief William Stoudt poses with Retired FF/Administrative Officer Brian Smith.

When was the last time that we thought about grieving? People grieve many changes in their lives. We grieve losing a job, a divorce, death, moving and many other changes. But do we really understand what it is to grieve?

They say that there are fiveto-nine stages of grief. The five that are most common are: Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression and Acceptance. Some people think that you go from step one through step five in that order, but grief is not that neat and clean, or that predictable. A person can spend a long or short time in any of these phases. They can revisit any phase many times.

You can go from denial, to anger, to bargaining, back to anger again, to depression, to anger again, to acceptance and to depression again. It all depends on the individual.

Let’s look at the death of someone who died from being sick or old. The family may have been taking care of the individual

JASON BATZ

Firefighters encountered a large marijuana growing operation during a fire in this long building located in the 200 block of North 9th Street.

for years. Even though they understand that the person may be at peace now, it still does not remove the pain.

Months may go by until they decide to deal with the person's belongings. People may want this or that to remember their loved one.

People may not even touch any of the possessions because it may cause them too much pain.

Events that go by may trigger the grieving process again, such as the person’s birthday, the holidays, special landmarks in time or place, a smell that reminds them of the person, or a song. Just like Critical Incident Stress has many triggers, so does grieving; after all, it is a critical incident. Some may just want to sit there and experience the grief because they are afraid that when they stop grieving, they may forget the person.

God says that we should love one another. Being there to be with someone as they grieve is a sign that you care, even just by helping someone figure out the paperwork, or what to do with the possessions.

My friend told me that it was a great help as we cleaned out a relative’s house. We sat there for hours and talked as we went through everything. We figured out where it was to go, who it would go to, and/or if we would throw it out. Once in a while we would start to laugh, seeing things from our childhood that they saved

from years ago, and seeing what we had from years ago.

It is perfectly fine for someone to mourn. We all need time to process our losses. As I write this, I'm thinking of one of my clients that died, who I knew for about 30 years, and also one of my friend's relatives who died. I'm also thinking of someone who means a lot to me that was recently diagnosed with Leukemia. I, myself, am mourning losses with my friends, as well as preparing myself for things that are inevitable. I know that I may be devastated when the person passes, but I also plan to remember the person close to me and I plan on honoring the person with my service, thoughts and actions.

Children sometimes have a harder time dealing with grief, which people can assist with.

There are counselors and also some camps that help, such as Comfort Zone Camps. Comfort Zone is a nation-wide camp that assists children when they have challenges dealing with their own grief.

I ask that you be there to grieve with those who mourn, and be patient. It is okay to just be there and be silent when you do not know what to say. It is part of caring for people and being part of a family. We will all grieve at one time or another.

Stay safe, Didymus McHugh

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

February, 2017

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February, 2017

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

Waynesboro and Blue Ridge Bid Farewell to Deputy Chief Rob Biesecker Waynesboro, PA - While others are celebrating the New Year and making their resolutions for 2017, Franklin County is mourning the loss of a Fire Service Icon in their community.

On January 3rd, JUMP TO FILE# Fire and EMS per- 010317118 sonnel from around the area gathered with the family and friends of Rob Biesecker to pay their final respects and bid farewell to a man that touched so many lives while serving his community.

On December 28th, Deputy Chief Rob Biesecker of Blue Ridge Fire & Rescue passed away

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at the age of 53. Rob was at Milton Hershey Medical Center being treated for a brain tumor. He was surrounded by his brothers and sisters from the Blue Ridge and Waynesboro Fire Departments, along with his family and friends when he passed away.

Rob was a longtime volunteer with Blue Ridge Fire & Rescue and a career apparatus operator with Waynesboro Fire Department, with over 37-years of service to the community he grew up in. Rob earned himself "Firefighter of the Year" with Blue Ridge back in 2010. He was a dedicated member and later became Deputy Chief of the department.

Multiple Fire and EMS departments from around the area transferred over to the Blue Ridge and Waynesboro stations to stand-by while personnel from both went to Hershey to say their farewells and show support for Rob’s family.

Personnel from Blue Ridge and Waynesboro escorted their brother home to Waynesboro that evening with a full fire department procession, consisting of apparatus from Blue Ridge Fire & EMS, Waynesboro Fire and Waynesboro EMS departments. Several departments could be seen along the way with apparatus sitting out and personnel standing at attention as the procession passed by, taking Rob home.

Many join the fire service as a career or as a hobby, but to Rob, the fire service was more of a calling and he was excellent at it. Rob dedicated his life to Public Safety and to his community. He had a vast knowledge of the service and different aspects of the job that he wasn’t afraid to share. Rob was a huge asset to Franklin County Public Safety and served as a mentor to many. He would always give up his time to help those around him learn.

Rob served on the Board of Directors for the Franklin County Public Safety Training Center. He was actively engaged and dedicated to the planning and provision of public safety training. He saw the importance of preparation and training for the job and wanted to help the younger generation learn and thrive from it.

The fire service is a family affair for the Biesecker family. Rob worked side-by-side with his cousin, Steve Biesecker, at Waynesboro Fire Department, as well as his two sons, Levi and Nathan Biesecker. The legacy Rob started will live on and continue to serve the community through them.

Deputy Chief Rob Biesecker, you can rest easy now! Your family and friends in Blue Ridge and Waynesboro will continue to serve you proudly and will take it from here!

- WILLIAM KING

Rob Biesecker was a mentor to many and will be missed!

BLUE RIDGE FIRE & RESCUE

Blue Ridge Fire & Rescue Engine-42 stands ready to escort Rob Biesecker for his last ride.

SHANE SHIFFLETT

SOUTH CENTRAL PA FIRST ALERT FB PAGE

Units from Fort Detrick and New Franklin stand ready, awaiting Rob Biesecker's arrival from his last ride.

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

February, 2017

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February, 2017

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

Former Assistant Chief of East Greenville Fire Co. Passes Away East Greenville, PA - Former Asst. Fire Chief Edmund Kuhns of the East Greenville Fire Co. passed away from medical issues associated with diabetes and a heart condition on January 9, 2017. He was 85-years-old.

Edmund served his country proudly JUMP TO FILE# in the U.S. Navy 011117110 during the late 1940's. He was very active in the East Greenville Fire Co. for years, serving on many committees and holding various positions and offices within the fire company. He served as Vice President, President, Assistant Fire Chief, Trustee and was also the last surviving Building Committee member of the present day firehouse.

Edmund is survived by his wife of 59-years, Grace, along with his son Kenneth, daughterin-law Maria and two grandsons.

Edmund was well known throughout the Upper Perkiomen Valley for his numerous contributions and will never be forgotten.

- TERRY RITZ

DRILLS/TRAINING

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

Denver, PA - The Reamstown Fire Company sponsored a multi-company drill on the snowy and cold Saturday morning of January 7th.

Firefighters from Denver, Adamstown, Ephrata, Stevens, Gordonville, Smokestown and Cumru Township (Berks Co.) participated in the drill. Approximately 60 students worked an acquired motel, which was purchased by Garden Spot Towing who then donated the property to the department for training. Several ladder company drills were set up, with crews making use of the large roof for ventilation purposes. Several forcible entry skill stations were also conducted.

JASON BATZ

Former Asst. Fire Chief Edmund Kuhns.

PROVIDED

Firefighters from Gordonville work their way through a throughthe-lock station within the motel.

JASON BATZ

Members from Adamstown work to defeat a static drop-bar with the irons.

February, 2017

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

Vehicle News

PAGE 27

Command Vehicles

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

Wakefield, PA - The Robert Fulton Fire Co. has taken delivery of this 2016 Rosenbauer engine, 1250/750/30, designated as Engine 89-2.

DALE FEEHRER

DALE FEEHRER

Wakefield, PA - The Robert Fulton Fire Co. has taken delivery of this 2016 F-550/Custom Truck and Body Works, 350/300, 911 Rapid Response unit, designated as Engine 89-5.

Command-112 of the Avoca FD is a 2003 Dodge Durango.

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PAGE 28

February, 2017

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

20th Century Firefighting ON THE BOOK SHELF

by John Malecky

20th Century Firefighting As seen through the eyes of Illustrator, William Hicks, Milton Fireman 1899-1942

By Nathan R. Murphy and Lieutenant Brian Doherty 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: $22.00 This is a soft covered book, measuring 9-inches by 11 ½inches and has 56 pages. From page 6 through 55 there are sketches and illustrations, except for one page which has a photo of a monument dedicated to six Milton, Massachusetts firefighters and two police officers who gave their lives in the line-of-duty to the city.

This book is the product of an idea put forth by Lieutenant Brian Doherty to Nathan R. Murphy, en-

couraging him to write this book while he secured the rights to use the artwork in the book that was done by Firefighter William Hick, Nathan’s great, great Grandfather.

William Hicks was a very talented firefighter and person. He served the city of Milton’s fire department for the first four decades of the 20th century. He was part of the transition of volunteers to career firefighters and from horse drawn to steam engines. He sketched illustrations of all aspects of being a firefighter, from fighting fires, responding to rescues and other emergencies, to firehouse life, social events, duties and what have you. Many, if not most of the sketches are of actual calls with the likes of actual firefighters who responded. Many locations are named and the nature of the call described.

The days of old are well represented and it is an education to anyone interested in history. Modern day firehouse life and firefighting are a light-year difference from much of what you will view on these pages. It is an enjoyable look of yesteryear, but sometimes sad when tragedy results. Nathan used this book as an Eagle Scout project. Lieutenant Doherty is the current president of the Milton Historical Society and helped to establish the Milton Firefighter Memorial Archives.

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.

STEPHEN BARRETT

DALE FEEHRER

Grantville, PA - The Grantville VFD in Dauphin County still operates this 1984 AM General/5-ton/6x6 as Brush 39-1. It had a few modifications made to it when it was purchased by the department a few years ago, including adding (two) 500-gallon tanks and a Darley pump.

DALE FEEHRER

Tower City, PA - The members of Tower City Vol. Fire Co. still operate this 1986 CF Mack engine (1500/500). Engine-66 previously served with another department in New York State.

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Girardville and Ashland firefighters gain access into the home and advance several hose lines.

Structure Fire Quickly Contained in Girardville Girardville, PA - On December 17th just before 10:00 P.M., the Girardville Ranger and Girard Hose Companies, along with Girardville Ambulance, were dispatched to 124 West Main Street for a structure fire. Girardville Fire Chief Frank Zangari arrived on location and reported to the 911 Center that there were flames coming from the "Delta" side of a row home.

The fire was spreading quickly through the second-floor and the exterior wall area. The Girardville Fire Chief quickly confirmed it was a working fire and took incident command. The Chief quickly ordered a second-alarm to the scene due to the spreading fire and type of building construction. The Ashland FD, Washington Fire Co., Mahanoy City's West End Rescue Fire Company (RIT Team), Shenandoah's Columbia Fire Co., and West Mahanoy Township's Altamont and William Penn Fire Companies were dispatched to the scene.

Girardville Ranger's Engine 45-10 established a water supply from a hydrant east of the fire building on Main Street. Engine 45-10 staged east of the "AlphaDelta" corner and made a defensive exterior attack to knock down the fire that was racing up the exterior wall.

The interior attack crews found dense smoke and fire on the upper floors of the two-and-a-half story building. Girardville’s Engine 45-11 took the hydrant to the rear of the buildings on West Oak Street. The engine staged on the "Charlie" side and deployed a hose line to the rear of the home.

A ladder and engine from Ashland FD arrived on location and staged on the "Alpha" side of the home. The aerial ladder was raised to the front roof to prepare for ventilation operations. Ashland’s ladder crew went to the roof by

JUMP TO FILE #121816103 climbing the ladder and prepared for ventilation while Girardville and Ashland firefighters gained access into the home and advanced several hose lines.

The interior crews gained access to the second-floor and opened the front windows. Firefighters then advanced the hose lines to the fire floor, where they found extreme heat and thick smoke. The attack crews were then able to extinguish the fire and vent the smoke from the windows.

West End Rescue-993, Altamont Engine-367, Columbia Engine-742 and William Penn Engine-888 staged one-block away and sent their manpower to the fire scene. West End’s RIT stood-by on the "Alpha" side of the home.

Interior crews were then able to control the fire on the secondfloor of the home. The crews pulled the wall and ceilings to expose the hidden fire and extinguish

it in the fire room. The fire was extinguished and conditions allowed overhaul operations to get started.

Command placed the fire under controlled before 10:30 P.M. and then started to release the mutual aid units before 11:00 P.M. The aggressive exterior and interior attacks helped to contain and extinguish the destructive fire.

The second-floor of the house received extensive fire and water damage, making it deemed unsafe to live in. The mutual aid fire units were cleared from the scene by 11:30 P.M. Girardville firefighters remained on the scene throughout the night to help investigate the cause of the fire, along with the State Police, Fire Marshal and the Girardville Police.

Girardville Ambulance stoodby on the scene throughout the incident. The American Red Cross also responded to the scene to assist with the displaced residents.

One family was left homeless after the fire.

- STEPHEN BARRETT

STEPHEN BARRETT

A ladder and engine from Ashland arrived on location and staged on the "Alpha" side of the home.

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February, 2017

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

FRANK ROBINSON

Lower Allen Fire Department operates a 2009 Pierce Velocity 2000/300/100' Tower.

Crews pulling lines to make a quick attack on the reported entrapment.

SHANE SHIFFLETT

Chambersburg Responds to Reported Fire with Entrapment Chambersburg, PA - Franklin County Communications alerted the box for the Borough of Chambersburg at 363 Elder Street for a house fire with reported entrapment on December 4th. Chambersburg Co. 1 arrived and crews quickly confirmed negative entrapment, with the fire contained to the exterior and chimney area. New Franklin, Fayetteville volunteers and Letterkenny Army Fire assisted in the extinguishment and overhaul operations. No injuries were reported. This was one of several fires and incidents going on due to a strong cold front that had moved in with high winds.

DALE FEEHRER

Denver Fire Company #1 operates this 2010 KME Predator as Rescue-13.

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

DALE FEEHRER

The Cumru Twp. FD of Berks County operates this 2010, 100', Sutphen SPH as Tower-42.

FRANK ROBINSON

Montour Township Fire Rescue operates a 2010 HME/Rosenbauer 2000/750/50.

The Berwick Fire Department still owns their 1974 Mack CF 750/300.

FRANK ROBINSON

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February, 2017

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

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.

SHANE SHIFFLETT

Chambersburg, PA - Santa was caught hanging around Franklin Station #4 during the holidays!

Two-Alarm Fire in Richmond Twp. Auto Body Shop Richmond Twp., PA - On January 8th at approximately 3:30 P.M., crews were dispatched to Kutztown Rd. in Richmond Township for a reported structure fire with smoke showing at MAS imports. JUMP TO FILE# Deputy-12 arrived to 011117137 find smoke showing and after gaining entry, confirmed a working structure fire.

Walnuttown Fire Co. Engine-32 arrived and stretched a line into the building. All units were switched to an ops channel and minutes later, a second-alarm was transmitted.

Blandon Fire Co. Ladder-12 was backed up to the building and all manpower was told to stage at Ladder-12. A couple minutes after the second-alarm was struck, an EVAC tone was put out and crews were evacuated from the building. Operations continued inside of the building later.

A bulk of the fire was knocked down by 4:05 P.M., but smoke continued to pour from the building until about 4:30 P.M., and steam was still coming from the building after 5:00 P.M. Ladder-12 was set up to the building's roof and crews ventilated around 4:15 P.M. Fleetwood Fire Co. Tower-45 was set up as

RAINMAN14

Smoke could be seen pouring from MAS imports just after 4:00 P.M.

well in case an aerial attack was needed.

Many tankers were also called to the scene to assist in supplying water.

Responding tankers were switched to their own ops channel. Frigid temps and windy conditions hampered firefighting efforts. Extensive overhaul was done to make sure that the fire was not hiding in the roof of the shop.

Canteen-9 responded to provide relief to firefighters on-scene.

One lane of Kutztown Road was

BOB LONG

KEN SNYDER

Blue Bell, PA - Many volunteer fire companies have a "Fill the Boot" donation campaign. This inflatable boot is an example, and it's what the Centre Square Fire Co. uses!

kept open so that the heavy traffic could pass. The other lane was sent on a short detour by fire police.

Trucks were able to stage in a nearby empty parking lot, which helped keep Kutztown Road partially open. The last crews left the scene before 6:20 P.M. Responding companies included Walnuttown, Blandon, Fleetwood, Ruscombmanor, Kutztown, Virginville, Lyons and Mt. Penn.

- LUCAS RICHARDSON

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

February, 2017

PAGE 33

FACES OF PENNSYLVANIA’S EMERGENCY SERVICES

To see your “Faces” in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com, email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com or mail them to 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore Street. New Windsor, NY 12553.

SHANE SHIFFLETT

Quincy Twp., PA - Rescue Hose Co. Fire Captain Tyler Myers requesting tools at a recent working mobile home fire.

JASON BATZ

Shillington, PA - Firefighters from the Keystone Fire Company of Shillington do their best to keep warm after a vehicle accident in Cumru Township.

ANTHONY MICCICKE

Reading, PA - Reading Firefighter Steve Ginder takes a break after a recent job on Haak Street.

SHANE SHIFFLETT

Chambersburg, PA - Firefighter Tyler George at a recent fire in the Borough of Chambersburg.

JIM ALERCIA

Palmer, PA - Members of the Palmer Township Municipal Fire Department recently attended the 11th Annual Valley Preferred Spirit of Courage Award Celebration, hosted by Lehigh Valley Health Network.

Reading Firefighters pose with Santa after filling Rescue 2 with toys for the Salvation Army.

JASON BATZ

PAGE 34

February, 2017

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

A New Years Wish STAYING SAFE

Chief Henry Campbell

Well, it's the beginning of another year and hopefully your resolution is to make it a safe one for you, the members of your department and the fire service in general. There was no final figure for Line-of-Duty deaths in 2016 as I prepared this article, using the USFA as my source, but the figure on December 14th was 82. We can and must do better in the reduction of this annual toll of lives taken in the line-of-duty and it will require a total commitment from all in the fire service.

Staying out of harm’s way is not easy as we go about the performance of our duties with all of its inherent dangers. There exists tremendous potential from all forms of hazards that we encounter and are exposed to on a daily basis that can result in serious injury or death, even when we are observing caution. Imagine what can occur when you are not concentrating, relaxed, and lowered your guard, or do something just plain dumb. One must maintain the proper attitude relative to safety in order to remain safe and stay alive, and if you don’t, you can easily become a statistic.

So, what can we do to help reduce this annual loss of life? You can start out by maintaining, or getting in good physical condition, since the leading cause of firefighter deaths is still heart attacks.

Remember, round is not a shape unless you are a ball, so get in shape! It will enable you to perform at high physical stress levels, with less risk of a heart attack.

Cigarette smoking is another major contributing factor for heart attack, so if you smoke, do your best to kick the habit. Believe me, I have heard all the stories and glories about "eating smoke at a fire, so why should I quit smoking??"

Well for starters, the days of the smoke eater are long past and you should be using SCBA. Secondly, if there is one habit that contributes to almost every medical ailment known to science, it's smoking. Some fire departments have a no smoking policy that they have had in place for many years and in these departments’ retirement and pension, benefits hinge directly to this no smoking policy, especially should heart and lung medical illnesses arise. It might be the perfect time for the entire fire service to incorporate this, or a similar policy.

In conjunction with a no smoking policy, it may also be

time the fire service begins enforcing a physical agility standard on an annual basis that requires all firefighting personnel to meet the standard or confront dismissal from the department. It may appear as an unreasonable option, but it may just be what is needed for some individuals to finally decide to take the necessary steps to keep his/her position, while improving and maintaining their health. Many career departments have volunteer participation physical agility programs, and if they have full compliance programs, they generally do very little policing of those who fail to meet the standard. In the volunteer service, where recruiting new members is becoming more difficult and getting a crew out during the week is difficult, the last thing you want to do is stop anyone from responding, so we sometimes look the other way.

Another key factor relative to heart attacks in the volunteer service is that many members are much older than in the career departments. Many career firefighters have retired by the age of 55, whereas in the volunteer fire service, a member may continue active into his/her 70’s. With the increase in age also comes the increase in the potential of having a heart attack while performing stressful activity. It's tough to hold back some of the old dedicated members, and surely they would be missed, so it is incumbent for the department to make sure these members have a minimum medical examination and get plenty of monitoring and rehab when assisting at the emergency scene. Even then, there still remains the increased risk.

If we can reduce the annual stress related line-of-duty deaths, we will have taken a major step in decreasing the annual death toll.

We will not have eliminated LODD’s, but we will be moving toward a goal of reducing the annual death toll. Motor vehicle and apparatus related deaths need to be reduced. Risk management has to be reviewed and some logical determinations made by command officers, as to how much risk will be taken on the fire ground in order to save what? I realize the saving of life is our most important mission, and that includes our own personnel, but after that, almost every material item can be replaced. The life of a firefighter caught in a collapse, trying to save property from further destruction by fire, is too high a price to pay.

So, as we enter this New Year, let us all resolve to do all we possibly can to reduce the annual death and injury toll. It can be done!

Till next time, stay safe and God Bless!

www.1rbn.com

Quick Response to Christmas Day House Fire Keeps Damage to a Minimum Hamilton, PA - On December 25th, Christmas lunch was interrupted for firefighters at Franklin Station-4 when they were dispatched out for a mobile home JUMP TO FILE# fire in Hamilton 122616105 Township. Franklin County 911 received a call for a fire in a home located at 1024 Warmsprings Road. Station-4 crews were dispatched out on Box 44-05 with several other Franklin County departments at 11:55 P.M. Franklin County advised responding units that the caller stated there was a fire in the living room area of the home.

Shortly after dispatch, Sergeant 8-1 from Marion Fire arrived and reported nothing evident from the exterior of the home.

Upon entry, they found a small fire near the fireplace. Sergeant 81 advised that he had a working fire as Franklin’s Engine-45 was arriving on the scene. Duty-44 from Station-4 assumed Command upon his arrival. Assistant Chief-49 took his crew on Engine45, pulled a line and made entry into the home.

As crews made entry, Franklin Dispatch was already in the process of starting additional units on the Working Fire dispatch.

Firefighters were able to quickly knock the fire down within minutes of their arrival on the scene.

Crews conducted a primary search

of the building, which came up negative. Command reported at 12:07 P.M. that the fire was under control and held the assignment to Station-4, Ambulance-18 and Air53 only, returning the rest.

Crews conducted salvage and overhaul operations, double checking the home for any further extension. The quick response of the firefighters on Christmas Day helped to keep damage to the home to a minimum. No injuries were reported during the fire and all units were able to clear the scene shortly

SHANE SHIFFLETT

before 1:00 P.M. that afternoon.

Franklin Station-4 out of Chambersburg responded, receiving mutual aid from Marion Fire Co. 8, St. Thomas Fire Co. 18, New Franklin Fire Co. 17, Fayetteville Fire Co. 7, Greencastle Rescue Hose Co. 3, Letterkenny Fire Co. 13, Chambersburg Headquarters Station Fire & EMS Co. 1, Mercersburg M.M.P.W. Fire Co. 9, Mont Alto Fire Co. 5 and Cumberland Valley Hose Air-53.

- WILLIAM KING

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February, 2017

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February, 2017

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA