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JANUARY, 2019
LIVE STOCK INJURED, BARN DESTROYED IN LETTERKENNY TWP.
DENNY CLOPPER
Letterkenny Twp., PA - On the morning of December 7th, the Pleasant Hall Vol. Fire Co. was alerted for a barn fire in the 12,000 block of Sandy Mount Road, near Creek Road in Letterkenny Township. Units could see heavy fire from a distance as they approached the scene that morning. - See full story on page 15
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1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
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Team Equipment
FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
Fire Rips Through Two Homes in Duquesne
City of Duquense, PA – On December 8th at 7:44 A.M., firefighters were alerted to a reported dwelling fire located in the 100 block of South 7th Street in the City of Duquense. Police arrived on-scene confirming a working fire in a vacant house. Crews quickly arrived as the fire began to catch an adjoining vacant home, and a second-alarm was requested. Crews then began to attack the fire and were able to contain it to just two homes. The fire was placed under control at 9:06 A.M., but crews remained on scene for overhaul for some time. No one was injured and the cause of the fire is under investigation.
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1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - Pennsylvania edition - Vol. 23 No. 1 - 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. Omissions or errors must be brought to the attention of the newspaper during the same month of publication. Printed in Canada.
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LEIGHANN FRAZER
Reading Firefighters Raise $7500 for Salvation Army Toy Drive Reading, PA - Reading firefighters recently held their 10th annual toy drive fundraiser to benefit the Salvation Army of Reading. Over $7,500 was raised to purchase toys to be distributed to the children of Reading for Christmas. The money was raised through a tee-shirt sale and several generous donations from local businesses. Pictured are Reading firefighters at the Exeter Twp. Target after toy shopping for the fundraiser.
CHRIS GRIM
Fatal Fire Claims Life of Man in Whitehall Twp. Whitehall Twp., PA - The Whitehall Bureau of Fire was dispatched to a multi-family structure at 1308 N. 13th St. on December 7th at 9:30 P.M. Dispatch stated that they were getting several calls of heavy involvement. Initial dispatch called for Whitehall Stations 36, 37 and 38. Chief Nelson (3501) called for an additional two stations, Whitehall 39 and 40, as well as Station 2 (Catasauqua FD) and Station 11 (Greenwald’s FD) for RIT. Deputy Chief Shambo (3502) arrived and established 13th Street command, stating that they had heavy involvement of an attached three-building apartment (12 apartments). Chief Nelson (3501) arrived and took over command; (3502) became operations. The first arriving engine was
JUMP TO FILE #121218101 instructed to set up the master stream for a transitional attack. A quick knock down followed with a rapid fire attack into the building with hand lines. Bystanders stated that the renter of the apartment that was on fire hardly came outside. A search was conducted and the 50-year-old male renter was located, who had perished in the fire. Woodlawn FD assisted with their cascade. Pennsylvania State Fire Marshals were called to the scene for the investigation. The fire was held to one of the three attached apartments. - DAVID NELSON
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.
FRANK ROBINSON
Lower Swatara Vol. Fire Department utilizes this 2015 Ford F550/MJR Utility Truck, designated as U59.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
January, 2019
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January, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
Fast-Moving Blaze Destroys Amish Home in Metal Township Metal Twp., PA - On the early evening of December 13th, Franklin County 911 received a call reporting a structure fire at 14614 Creek Road in Metal Township. Units from Franklin and Huntingdon Counties were dispatched on the initial assignment at 4:54 P.M. on Box 21-01. Chief 21, Dale Hall, marked up directly after dispatch and was advised that units were responding for a fire reported to be in the washroom of a three-story residence back a long lane, approximately a half-mile in length from the main road. Lieutenant 12 was approaching the area and reported heavy smoke showing. Fannett-Metal Fire & Ambulance’s Captain 12A was the first to arrive, finding heavy fire showing from the residence. Captain 12A confirmed dispatch's report. Chief Hall immediately requested the Working Fire dispatch, as well as two additional tankers. Firefighters arrived and took up position as Chief Hall arrived and established Command. The first-in engines set up for a defensive attack while water supply consisted of a rolling tanker shuttle. Firefighters battled the blaze for nearly one hour before they were able to organize units back the lane and get Franklin Truck 42 in position for aerial operations. Crews were then finally able to make headway and bring the fire under control. Firefighters were committed on the scene well into the evening as they worked to extinguish the blaze and conduct overhaul operations. Crews were faced with several obstacles that made the fire difficult to bring under control, including the structure being a log cabin style construction and also a heavy fire condition due to the fire having a longer burn time before 911 was able to be called. Reports show that one of the
JUMP TO FILE #122018103 occupants was using a kerosene lamp which exploded, starting the fire. All occupants immediately evacuated the residence while one of them went to their closest neighbor for help. Firefighters were also faced with severe water supply issues due to the long narrow lane leading back to the residence, as only two tankers were able to fit down the lane at a time. One occupant of the home and one firefighter were injured during the incident. Both were checked out on the scene by EMS, but were not transported to the hospital. The residence was a total loss. Over 50 emergency personnel members from multiple agencies across five Pennsylvania Counties responded to the incident. Franklin County responded with units from Metal Twp. Fire & Ambulance Co.21, Fannett-Metal Fire & Ambulance Co.12, Pleasant Hall V.F.C. Co.11, Franklin Fire Station 4, St. Thomas Fire & Rescue Co.18, MMP&W V.F.D Co.9, and Letterkenny Army Depot FD Co.13. Additional out-of-county mutual aid was received on the scene from Cumberland County crews from Newburg-Hopewell Twp. V.F.C. Co.51, Cumberland Valley Hose Co.53; crews from Huntingdon County from Shade Gap Area Fire Co.14, and Orbisonia-Rockhill V.F.C. Co.9; a crew from Juniata County’s East Waterford FD Co.7; and a Fulton County crew from Hustontown V.F.C. Co.57. Crews from Franklin Station 4 and Cumberland County’s South Newton Twp. V.F.C. Co.49 transferred units in to cover calls while crews were committed on the call.
Firefighters arrived to find the house fully involved.
CHRISTINA PETERSON
- WILLIAM KING
DENNY CLOPPER
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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
Maryland: Daniel "Danny" Lister, 34 Rank: Assistant Fire Chief Incident Date: September 1, 2018 Death Date: September 1, 2018 Fire Department: Queen Anne-Hillsboro Volunteer Fire Company Initial Summary: Assistant Fire Chief Daniel "Danny" Lister was operating at the scene of a motor vehicle accident with multiple medical patients on Maryland Route 404 at Old Queen Anne Road and suffered a medical emergency. Resuscitation efforts on scene were unsuccessful and Lister passed away at the University of Maryland Shore Regional Health at Easton.
Oregon: Eric Christopher Aarseth, 20 Rank: Firefighter II Incident Date: August 27, 2018 Death Date: September 4, 2018 Fire Department: Miller Timber Services Initial Summary: Firefighter II Eric Aarseth worked the Horns Mountain Fire in Washington on Aug. 27 and was released at 6:00 p.m. On Aug. 28, Aarseth was found unresponsive at his home in Oregon. Reports indicate that Aarseth developed pneumonia which became septic. Aarseth was treated at Sacred Heart Medical Center in Springfield, Oregon, but was taken off life support on Sept. 3 after suffering irreversible damage to his organs. Aarseth passed away early the following morning on Sept. 4.
South Dakota: David Fischer, 43 Rank: Assistant Fire Chief Incident Date: September 7, 2018 Death Date: September 7, 2018 Fire Department: Sturgis Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: At approximately 4 p.m. on Sept. 7, Assistant Fire Chief David Fischer responded with the Sturgis Vol. FD and other local first-responders to a residential structure fire in Tilford, South Dakota. Upon arrival, firefighters found a single-family home that was fully involved in fire. The intense fire ignited several outbuildings on the
property and threatened nearby propane tanks. Firefighters made their initial attack, sent out a mutual aid call, and evacuated nearby residents. Soon after, responders were informed of a resident that was unaccounted for and last seen in the involved residence. As firefighters continued to fight the fire and attempted to locate the missing resident, a nearby propane tank experienced a catastrophic failure causing a Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion, or BLEVE. The explosion instantly killed Fischer. In addition, the remains of the missing resident, an 82 year-old male, were found the following morning. Michigan: Robert James Phillips II, 62 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: September 22, 2018 Death Date: September 23, 2018 Fire Department: Memphis Fire Department Initial Summary: On Sept. 22, Firefighter Robert James Phillips II responded to two emergency incidents, the last one being a motor vehicle accident at approximately 11:30 a.m. On Sept. 23, at approximately 6:30 a.m., Phillips was found unresponsive by his wife at his residence. She called 911 and the Memphis Fire Department responded, but Phillips was pronounced dead at the scene. The nature and cause of fatal injury are still to be reported.
Missouri: Russell Hayes, 62 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: October 3, 2018 Death Date: October 4, 2018 Fire Department: El Dorado Springs Vol. Fire Department Initial Summary: On Oct. 3, Firefighter Russell Hayes, while driving a department truck, was on his way to have a pump inspected for annual certification. Hayes lost control of the vehicle, veered to the right side of the road, then overcorrected as he tried to get back, causing it to travel off the left side of the road and overturn. Hayes was air lifted to the Mercy Hospital in Springfield, MO, where he later died from injuries sustained in the accident.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
January, 2019
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THOMAS ENGLISH
McAdoo Ladder 4922 set up on the "B" side of Triple J Trucking in Hazle Twp.
JC KRIESHER
Fire Damages Hazle Township Business Hazle Twp., PA - At 7:16 P.M. on Sunday, December 16th, Luzerne County 9-1-1 sent a firstalarm assignment out to 1490 South Church Street in Hazle Township for a reported commercial building fire. The box included Hazle Township Fire/Rescue, APTS Medic 11 and McAdoo BLS. Hazle Chief 4 was advised of multiple calls received reporting a fire at Triple J Trucking, including a call from an alarm company for the location. With the report, Chief 4 requested an engine and ladder out of McAdoo, as well as five additional tankers. McAdoo Chief 4908 was on the scene shortly after dispatch reporting a working fire with fire in the roof area. 141 Chief 2 requested a Rapid Intervention Team from Hazleton City and arrived on the scene to establish South Church Street Command with smoke showing from a one-story commercial building. Firefighters found heavy
JUMP TO FILE #121718100 smoke showing with some flames visible on the “B” side. 141 Engine 2 arrived and positioned in front of a large garage door on the “A” side, against the nose of McAdoo Engine 49-15 who had already arrived on scene. McAdoo Ladder 4922 arrived to take the “B” side, followed by 141 Tower 7. Hazleton Rescue 3 staged across the street and set up RIT in front of the building. Two lines were stretched off Engine 2 through the large garage door on the “A” side as McAdoo firefighters set up their ladder to the roof on the “B” side. Interior crews located the seat of the fire and began to make a knock while the roof crew cut a vent hole. Tankers began to arrive and nursed McAdoo's Engine, who stretched a line to 141 Engine 2 for water supply. Tankers from Harwood, Sheppton-Oneida, Nuremberg-Weston, Hometown,
Weatherly, Ryan Twp. and Mahanoy City responded to the scene. A fill site was set up by 141 Engine 3 along South Church Street, about two miles north of the scene. The bulk of the fire was knocked down within 20 minutes of crews arriving at the business. The roof crew came down after ventilating and brought ventilation fans to the front door. Flames and embers were noticed coming from the eaves further down the “B” side, which led crews to throwing an additional ground ladder and opening up. A firefighter exposed the hidden fire and interior crews were able to extinguish the flames. By 8:30 P.M., most of the tankers had been sent home as firefighters were finishing up with overhaul. A State Police Fire Marshal was called to the scene to help investigate the cause of the fire. First-due units were clear of the scene shortly after 9:00 P.M.
Early Morning Fire Guts Apartment in Reading
Reading, PA - Early in the morning of Sunday, December 16th, a phone call was placed to the Berks County D.E.S. 911 center reporting a house fire at 1126 Buttonwood Street. Within seconds, additional calls would be made reporting a fast-moving fire with people screaming for help. Box 0104 was transmitted at 3:41 A.M. for a structure fire with entrapment. Chief Moyer arrived two minutes later, reporting a large volume of smoke showing from a two-and-a-half story, end-of-row, multiple-dwelling. Crews quickly stretched a hose line to the front door while an intoxicated occupant fought with several firefighters. Searches were conducted throughout the building with no one found. The bulk of the fire was knocked down within 15 minutes with no injuries reported. The intoxicated occupant was taken into custody by police officers. The Fire Marshal's Office is investigating. Chief Mogel (Car 2) was in command.
- JC KRIESHER
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
DON SCICCHITANO
Two Grabs Made at Commercial Building Fire in Mount Carmel
This retired 1961 Ford/ALF (750/1000) engine formally served in York Haven, PA and now resides in Lancaster County, PA.
DALE FEEHRER
Mount Carmel, PA - On December 2nd around 2:46 P.M., Mount Carmel FD was alerted to a working fire at 221 South Oak Street in the Borough. Chief 3 advised smoke showing from side 'Alpha' and heavy fire on Division 2. Truck 2 took the address along with Engine 3. Engines 1 and 2 took the rear. Firefighter William Rovinsky of American Hose Fire Co., and Lt. 3 Steve Ennis of Clover Hose Fire Co., pulled one female from Division 2 who was then transported to a local hospital. In a quote he gave to the local newspaper, Fire Chief Jack Williams Jr. stated that the woman was carried from the second floor where the fire is believed to have started. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
JORDAN BANKERT
Deputy Chief James Stoudt, Jr. took command of this fast-moving dwelling fire on Cotton St. in Reading. Firefighters removed 2 occupants in the first few minutes after arrival.
Firefighters Rescue Two People from Dwelling Fire in Reading Reading, PA - Shortly after the morning change of shift on Friday, November 23rd, calls began to flood the Berks County DES 911 center reporting a fire on Cotton Street. Several people indicated that they saw flames shooting from the second floor of a dwelling. While companies were responding to East Reading, additional information from dispatchers reported that the home was occupied. Engine 1 arrived at 1323 Cotton Street with smoke and flames visible from a twoand-a-half story, middle of row structure. Crews began a hose stretch into the dwelling to stop the fast-moving fire. Tower 1 pulled in after the engine and began to set up for aerial operations. Other firefighters sped into the building to search for occupants and encountered hoarding conditions throughout. A conscious male was quickly located and removed to safety while an
JUMP TO FILE #112518101 unconscious female was dragged to the rear for awaiting paramedics. Both people were taken to Reading Hospital for treatment. The bulk of the fire was knocked down at 8:15 A.M. Searches were declared clear in the remainder of the home, and after both the interior and exterior of the building were overhauled, Deputy Chief Stoudt (Car 4) placed the fire under control at 8:40 A.M. No other injuries were reported, and the Fire Marshal's Office is investigating the cause. One of the injured occupants was later flown to Lehigh Valley Burn Center for advanced treatment. There were no working smoke detectors in the home. - JASON BATZ
January, 2019
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1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
Vehicle News
DAVID NELSON
Whitehall Twp. Bureau of Fire recently received a new 2018 Pierce Enforcer with 750-gallons of water and a 1500-GPM pump. This apparatus was put together by our Egypt Station (39) with compartment space designed for all equipment meticulously throughout to work for the area it serves.
Conditions just prior to the FD's arrival.
TRISH RIVA
Trailer Fire Displaces Two in Commodore
BRETT J. FASSNACHT
The Lancaster Twp. FD in Lancaster County recently took delivery of a 2016 Seagrave Aerialscope 95' platform. This unit replaces their 1998 Spartan/LTI 93' platform which was sold to Holidaysburg, PA. The Seagrave unit was purchased used from Falls Twp., PA (Bucks County), where it featured a black-over-green paint scheme. Command Fire Apparatus in Landisville, PA repainted the unit white with a black roof and red striping. The new unit will be designated as Truck 66 and was slated to go into service by mid November 2018.
Commodore, PA - At 1:48 P.M. on November 23rd, the Commodore Vol. FD (540) was dispatched, along with the Clymer Vol. Fire Co. (150), Cherryhill Twp. Fire Co. (240) and Hope Fire Co. of Northern Cam- JUMP TO FILE# bria (50), to a struc- 121618115 ture fire on Musser Street, near Tulip Street. Smoke could be seen as Commodore firefighters arrived at the station and that information was relayed to Indiana County 911. Engine 543 and Tanker 547 quickly departed the station to make the short trip to the scene. Turning the corner from the station, heavy smoke and fire could be seen coming from a single wide trailer. At that time, 1st Assistant Chief Jim Hopkins III advised 911 of a working fire as well as unknown entrapment with a vehicle in the driveway. Crews quickly pulled (two) one-andthree-quarter inch lines for fire attack and performed a primary search of the structure. The primary search was negative and all crews attacked the fire. Tanker 547 supplied Engine 543 with water, giving crews 4,000-gallons to work with until the second-due companies could arrive and lay in to the scene from a nearby hydrant. Engine 154 arrived, laid the supply line from Engine 542 and assisted with mask personnel. Additional 150 and 240 units also assisted with mask personnel. Crews from 50 provided an RIT team, with additional mask personnel assisting with operations. The structure was a total loss,
Firefighter Scott Henry working fire in the roof.
but an aggressive attack of the fire limited damage to the owner's belongings, as they were able to recover numerous valuable items. No injuries were reported, but unfortunately at least one pet perished in the fire.
TRISH RIVA
Crews operated for approximately three hours. Citizen's Ambulance Service also assisted on the scene. - JAMES HOPKINS III
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
January, 2019
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1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
We’re Having Salad For Lunch… FORK & HOSE CO. a Food Blog by A.J. Fusco
TERRY RITZ
Dwelling Fire in Upper Hanover Twp.
Upper Hanover Twp., PA - On Thursday, December 6th at 6:21 P.M., the East Greenville Fire Co., along with several other fire companies, were dispatched to a dwelling fire on Wasser Road in the township. Upon arrival, Chief 38 had a chimney fire with extension into the wall. Pressurized water extinquishers and a handline were used to bring the fire under control. Exhaust fans were also used to vent out the smoke. The residents were out of the dwelling when firemen arrived, and there were no injuries. The cause of the fire was determined to be from the chimney. An estimate of damage is pending the investigation. Assisting East Greenville were fire companies from Pennsburg, Red Hill, Hereford, Trumbauersville, Milford and Lower Milford. Fire police from East Greenville and Pennsburg were on location, as was Upper Perk EMS.
It's the beginning of 2019...this means one thing...New Year’s Resolutions! I'm a firm believer that saying you are going on a diet is setting you up for failure. Instead, we should just be cognizant of what we are eating. Focus on eating whole foods and less processed foods. We also need to eat more fresh vegetables and fruit. And one way to do this is by eating salads that are both delicious and interesting. Unfortunately, the mere mention of the word salad is known to send entire crews into a chaotic frenzy. Now serve one as a main course and you are really asking for it! But there is a way to avoid the verbal “beatdown” which would usually result because of this bold move...put steak on it! I've found that if you tell the
crew you are making a “steak salad”, they are usually a little more enthused about this idea. It’s almost like hiding vegetables in mac and cheese to get your kids to eat them! What kind of steak you use is totally up to you, but I prefer quick cooking lean cuts that pack tons of flavor like flank, skirt and in this case, hangar. Feel free to marinate any of these, as they all take on flavor really well, but I personally think they taste great with just a little salt, as this lets the beefy flavor shine through. And anytime you cut steak, make sure to slice it AGAINST (perpendicular to) the grain to achieve maximum tenderness. If you cut with the grain, you might as well serve shoe leather no matter how perfectly you cooked it. And when it comes to salad greens, my go-to is arugula. Its mild peppery flavor stands up to strong ingredients like gorgonzola and steak, while providing a nice contrast in textures to the grilled pears. And best of all, it packs a punch when it comes to nutrition. Arugula is loaded with fiber, which helps keep you fuller
longer. It also has tons of vitamins A, K, C, folate, iron and potassium. Some of the minerals it contains also relax blood vessels, helping to control blood pressure, which is a huge benefit in fighting cardiac related incidents among firefighters. Any good salad also needs a great dressing to go with it. I urge you to avoid pre-made dressings that are made with tons of preservatives. Instead, make your own so that you can control what ingredients are used, and at the same time tailor it to your own taste. Even a simple dressing of lemon juice, olive oil and salt can make a salad delicious. This Balsamic Yogurt Dressing is great because it adds flavor and a little extra protein too. Yogurt is a great substitute for cream if you are looking for creamy dressings, but try to use the plain, full-fat Greek variety if possible. So the next time you are looking to get a salad on the table without being stripped of your chef badge, put some steak on it!
HANGAR STEAK SALAD Serves 4
Ingredients:
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
1 lb. Hangar Steak 1 Pear, sliced into ¼” thin wedges Small Container Crumbled Gorgonzola Honey Sea Salt Large Package of Arugula Dressing:
½ Cup Plain Greek Yogurt, at least 5% fat ¼ Cup Balsamic Vinegar 2 Tbs. Honey ¼ Cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil Salt, to taste Procedure:
-For the Dressing: In a bowl whisk together the vinegar, honey, yogurt and salt. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking. Taste and adjust seasoning, set aside in refridgerator. -Preheat grill on high
JC KRIESHER
Nanticoke Fire Chief Kevin Hazleton takes up from an RIT response at a two-alarm house fire.
-Place steak on a wire rack, pat dry with paper towel and season with plenty of salt. Rest for at least 20 minutes at room tempera-
ture
-Toss sliced pear in a bowl with drizzle of honey and EVOO and a pinch of salt -Grill the pears on one side just until lightly charred. Set aside to cool (a rack on the grill will prevent pears from slipping through grates)
-Grill steak to desired doneness, flipping frequently. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing against the grain. AJ FUSCO
-Assemble salad and drizzle with Balsamic-Yogurt Dressing
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January, 2019
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.
DALE FEEHRER
The Londonderry Fire Co. operates this 2004 International/Central States (1000/500/25 AF) truck as Engine 54-1.
Crews arrive to find heavy fire showing.
FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
1st Responder News Correspondent Saves Dog from Running into Burning Home
FRANK ROBINSON
Continental Fire Co. in Danville operates this 2013 Pierce Velocity 1750/1000 as E-33.
Wall Borough, PA - At 12:54 A.M. on December 1st, firefighters were dispatched to a possible residential structure fire located in the area of Hampton Street in Wall Borough. Police arrived on-scene, found a working house fire located on Versailles Avenue and advised dispatch that there may be entrapment, and that they were going into the home to search for a victim. The police had to retreat from the home due to fast changing fire conditions. Fire crews arrived onscene and began an interior search and attack of the fire. Crews entered and found heavy fire conditions throughout the home,
JUMP TO FILE #120218101 including heavy fire in the basement. Due to the amount of fire, crews were forced to evacuate the structure. Crews then set up a defensive attack to knock heavy fire down and protect the exposures. When 1st Responder Newspaper Correspondent Eric Rasmussen arrived on-scene, he observed a pit bull that kept trying to enter the front door. Firefighters were able to coax the dog outside, but it ran to the rear of the structure. The dog then entered the back door despite the amount of
fire above. Eric was able to coax the dog out and get it away from the structure as firefighters arrived to attack the fire in the rear. Both Eric and Animal Control then attempted to catch the dog for several hours, but were unsuccessful. Animal Control was familiar with the dog and said that they would be able to catch it. Luckily no one was home at the time of the incident, but it was reported that several other pit bulls perished in the fire. The fire is now under investigation. - ERIC RASMUSSEN
EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES If you have photos you would like to see in our “Emergency Medical Services” feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
RAINMAN14
Manheim Township Fire Rescue Squad 209 is a 2012 Peterbuilt/Pierce heavy duty rescue squad, housed at the department’s southern station. The squad carries an air cascade system and a 30-KW generator.
DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
This 2018 Pierce Enforcer now operates as Engine 17-2 with the Smokestown Fire Co. in Lancaster County. It has a 1750 pump, 2565 water and 30 foam, and replaces a 2000 International/Pierce engine.
U.S. Army EMS staged during an event held in Franklin County, PA.
SHANE SHIFFLETT
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January, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
KEN SNYDER
Fire when Ladder 17 arrived on scene.
J. LENNON
Passerby Reports Fully Involved House Fire in Lake Harmony Lake Harmony, PA - Units were alerted by Carbon County Communications Friday evening, December 14th, for a reported house engulfed in flames from a passerby on Moseywood Road in the Split Rock section of Lake Harmony. Ladder 17 (Lake Harmony) arrived on scene first and navigated a tight driveway to set up on the "A" side of the structure. Initial crews pulled two pre-connected hand lines and started to hit the fire from the exterior. A three-inch supply line was stretched to Engine 12 (Penn Forest Twp.), and a second
JUMP TO FILE #121518102 was stretched to Engine 16 (Albrightsville). In the meantime, a porta tank was set up in front of Engine 12. The blitz fire gun was then deployed once a reliable water supply was established. One additional apartment pack handline was also placed into service. Portable lighting was set up around the exterior of the dwelling, as well as several PPV fans.
Once the fire was knocked down, a coating of foam was applied to the smouldering dwelling. One firefighter from Station 42 (Tunkhannock Twp.) was taken to Geisinger Medical Center for an evaluation; she was treated and released. Also responding was Tobyhanna Twp. Fire Company, Lake Harmony Ambulance, Kidder PD, and fire police from Stations 17 and 12. Units were in service for fourand-a-half hours. - JOSEPH LENNON
KEN SNYDER
North Penn Fire Co. Holds Dedication for New Truck
North Wales, PA - The North Penn Fire Company of North Wales held a parade and housing on November 3rd for their new KME tillered ladder.
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.
RON JEFFERS
Engine 12 drafting and supplying Ladder 17 - Tanker 17 dumping.
J. LENNON
Retired Firefighter Pete Rinaldi owns several pieces of fire apparatus and is very active with the Schuylkill Historical Fire Society. He also rides around with a scale model Mack pumper mounted on the dashboard of his pickup truck. He truly lives by that well known bumper sticker: "My other car is a fire truck."
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
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January, 2019
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.
Senior Reading Firefighters Dan Wade and Thomas Sheetz smile for the camera while attending a platoon meeting. REBECCA ZENTMYER
DENNY CLOPPER
Live Stock Injured and Barn Destroyed in Letterkenny Twp. Letterkenny Twp., PA - On the morning of December 7th, the Pleasant Hall Vol. Fire Co. was alerted for a barn fire in the 12,000 block of Sandy Mount Road, near Creek Road in Letterkenny Township. Franklin County 911 received the call reporting the structure fire just after 4:30 A.M. Pleasant Hall was dispatched with multiple other departments due on Box 11-1. Units could see heavy fire from a distance as they approached the scene that morning. Pleasant Hall Chief 11, Dale Myers III, was the first to arrive to find a working structure fire with heavy fire conditions at 7777 Creek Road. Chief Myers reported to Franklin Dispatch that he was on the scene with a 300’x80’ barn fully involved. Chief Myers established command and requested the working fire dispatch, with the secondalarm tanker assignment. Firefighters had a livestock barn fully involved which had already began to collapse prior to their arrival. Firefighters took up position and prepared for a defensive attack.
JUMP TO FILE #121318119 Crews battled the early morning blaze for nearly 30 minutes before bringing it under control. Firefighters initially used tanker operations for water supply while crews worked to establish a supply line. Multiple attack lines were used to battle the blaze until a water supply was established for aerial operations. Once in place, Cumberland Valley Hose Truck 53 was used for aerial operations to knock down a bulk of the blaze. Firefighters remained committed on the scene for several more hours battling the flames, dousing hot spots and conducting overhaul operations. The barn at 7777 Creek Road was a total loss. One skunk and five heads of cattle were lost; 50-75 heads of cattle were injured. Firefighters' efforts were able to keep the blaze contained to the involved structure. The exact cause of the fire has not been released at this time,
and no injuries were reported as a result of the incident. Over 30 Fire and EMS personnel responded out to the incident from multiple companies between Franklin and Cumberland Counties. The Pleasant Hall V.F.C. Co.11 responded with several neighboring departments with Franklin County crews from West End Fire & Rescue Co.15, Franklin Fire Co. Station 4, Mont Alto Fire Co.5, Marion V.F.C. Co.8, Fanett-Metal Fire & Ambulance Co.12, Chambersburg Fire & EMS Co.1,; and Cumberland County units from NewburgHopewell V.F.C. Co.51, Vigilant Hose Co.52, Cumberland Valley Hose Co.53, South Newton Twp. V.F.C. Co.49 and Shippensburg EMS Co.73. Additional assistance was received from New Franklin Fire Co.17 and Buchanan Valley Fire Co.27 out of Adams County, who filled in and covered the area while personnel were committed on the call.
PMFD PHOTOGRAPHERS PETE KEADY & TOM KOHLER
Members of the Palmer Township Municipal Fire Department traveled to Jersey City on September 11th to take part in the annual 'Tribute in Lights' event.
- WILLIAM KING
Podcasts
Audio roundtable
Action video
Columns
National radio report
Incident photos and reports Cumru Township Firefighters Zach Spengler, Jan "Ace" Dietrich, Baron "Butch" Klein and Matt Carl pose for a photo after an air consumption test. JASON BATZ
All available at
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January, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
HE HE ER ERO EROES ROES RO OES ES INK INK
1st Responder Newspape er features EMERGENCY SERVICES RELA ATED TATTOOS
FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
Three Dead After Pittsburgh House Fire
RICH MAXWELL
Pittsburgh, PA – On November 21st at 11:20 P.M., city firefighters were dispatched to the 1000 block of Flemington Street in the city’s Greenfield section for a reported house on fire with entrapment. Dispatch advised units that the caller was on a cell phone inside the home and reported that there were three people inside that could not get out and could hardly breath. The first arriving unit reported smoke showing and the responding Battalion Chief requested a second-alarm. An aggressive search was commenced, but when firefighters opened the front door they encountered heavy fire. Crews began knocking the fire down as other crews entered and began searching.
JUMP TO FILE #112418101 Two victims were found in under 10 minutes and brought out to awaiting EMS crews, who began CPR on both victims. The Battalion Chief advised dispatch that two victims had been removed, and that neighbors stated that only two people lived in the home. Dispatch then confirmed that the caller stated they were inside the home and that three people were inside. The Battalion Chief advised crews to continue an aggressive search for the third victim and requested a third-alarm for manpower.
About 20 minutes into the incident, crews found the third victim and removed them from the home. EMS crews then began CPR on the third victim and all three were transported to local hospitals. Once all the victims were removed, crews were able to quickly knock the fire down. Crews remained on-scene to assist with overhaul and the investigation. Two victims, a 96-year-old woman and a 48-year-old man, later died the next day. The third victim, a 47-year-old woman, died two days later. There is no word on what caused the fire. - ERIC RASMUSSEN
MEMORIES
If your Department has photos you would like to see in our “Memories” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
RICH MAXWELL
Mansfield Twp., NJ Firefighter Brian Pidgeon of the TriCounty Fire Co. (Warren County Station 29) has some special artwork on his arm, which is in competition to whose depicted on the back of the fire company's sweatshirts. We think the arm wins, hands down!
Would you like your emergency services related tattoo featured here? Contact Lindsey at
Lindsey@1strespondernews.com
BARRY FISHER
The Perseverance Fire Co. of Jonestown formerly operated this 1979 Chevy/Swab rescue body as Rescue 10. The unit was originally delivered with a 250-GPM pump and booster tank. The pump and tank were removed shortly after due to weight issues.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
FDNY The Battle Continues, Vol. 24 VIDEO REVIEW
Video reviews by John Malecky
FDNY The Battle Continues, Vol. 24 By Fire Line Video Productions Available from: FSP Boos & Videos Hudson, MA 01749-1330 1-800-522-8528 E-mail: support@fire-policeems.com www.fire-police-ems.com Price $29.95 (DVD) This DVD is 63 minutes in length and features fires from 2007 and 2008. There are nine incidents including three thirdalarms, three second-alarms and three “all hands.” Five are in Queens, three are in the Bronx and one is in Brooklyn. There is radio traffic that can be overheard during these incidents, but it is not always understandable. The back of the DVD case lists the incidents with some descriptions adding to the announcement on the screen preceding each scene. Of the all hands, the first is in Queens involving a 2 ½ story frame private dwelling. Fire apparently started on the first floor and communicated through the walls, eventually reaching the attic. An aerial ladder, ground ladders and hand tools are used in venting windows. Next is an all hands in the Bronx for a vacant, two-story private dwelling which
had a fire a few days before. Fire is in the second floor rear. Next is a second-alarm in Queens involving a historic wooden church. A tower ladder opens up near the ridgepole. The fire gains intensity. A secondalarm in Queens is in the basement of a two-story private dwelling. An injured civilian is removed to an ambulance. Next is a third-alarm in a six-story brick occupied multiple dwelling in the Bronx, involving the cockloft after traveling through the upper floor. An all hands in Queens is next, involving a well involved first floor of a two-story frame dwelling. It was an outside fight initially due to the deteriorating conditions. A Bronx third-alarm is next for a deep-seated cellar fire discovered by a company on another call. A tower ladder is directed into an opening in the cellar at the storefront. Next is a second-alarm in Queens on the Van Wyck Expressway for an overturned tanker which ignited. Kennedy Airport fire units were having a drill when they spotted the smoke. They reported the fire and got permission to investigate and respond off their property, and did so with three crash units. The FDNY received the call for the tanker fire and beside their response, dispatched all of the foam units to the scene. Finally, the last is a third-alarm in Brooklyn in a vacant, four-story brick dwelling which started in the stairway and extended up through the building due to high winds. This volume, like all of the rest, is packed with action!
January, 2019
PAGE 17
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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.
CONTACT US TODAY! info@firstrespondertravel.com (845)610-3389 • (855)TRVL-911 EUGENE WEBER JR.
This patch belongs to the Donaldson VFC, located in Schuykill County, PA.
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January, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
Reading Firefighters Extricate Man After High-Speed Accident Reading, PA - On Tuesday, November 6th, a frantic caller contacted the Berks County DES 911 center reporting a high-speed accident at 5th and Pike Streets. Chief Rehr (Car JUMP TO FILE# 8) arrived to find 110618103 two severely damaged cars with one occupant trapped and requested an additional medic unit. Crews stabilized a heavily damaged sedan and began working to remove the injured occupant. Several different hydraulic tools were used from both Ladder 3 and Rescue 2 during the extrication. With companies working together, the victim was freed within 11 minutes. EMS units transported several injured people to Reading Hospital Trauma Center. Crews remained on scene for over 45 minutes. - JASON BATZ
JOHN SEYFERT
Crews take up equipment from this severely damaged vehicle after an extrication at North 5th & Pike Streets in Reading on 11/6/18.
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January, 2019
PAGE 19
eLEND joins Heroes Mortgage Program to offer down payment assistance for heroes
For many Americans, funding the down payment necessary to realize a dream of home ownership simply is not possible; and squirreling away the dollars to do so on a limited budget could mean several years of renting and waiting to buy a house. In some cases, first responders and other community service employees have trouble affording homes in the areas where they work. With a purchase as big as buying a home, a little help can go a long way. The Advantage Program, introduced to the Heroes Mortgage platform by eLEND, helps hometown heroes like police officers, volunteer and paid firefighters, EMS workers, medical professionals and educators purchase a home within the community where they work, even in high-cost areas. The unique down payment assistance program was specifically designed for those who make a difference in other people’s lives, as well as first time home buyers. “The Heroes Mortgage platform helps connect members of the emergency services community with lenders that are specifically interested in working with them,” said Joseph P. Belsito, publisher of 1st Responder Newspaper. “The Advantage Program created by eLEND is exactly what makes the Heroes Mortgage Pro-
“We’re excited to introduce our Advantage Program to the Heroes Mortgage platform. It’s our way of trying to help hometown heroes advance their dreams of home ownership.”
- BILL PACKER Executive Vice President eLEND
gram a valuable resource for heroes in our community looking for home financing.” Grant provides help to homebuyers Many buyers wait patiently on the sidelines, saving money and watching interest rates rise. Unlike many other home buying assistance programs, eLEND’s Advantage Program provides a grant for the down pay-
ment. These resources can immediately build a borrower’s buying power, helping them act on a purchase more quickly for either that first home, or a move-up home as the family has grown and needs more space. Qualified buyers can receive grants up to 2% of the purchase price, minimizing the
down payment dollars needed at closing. The grant is “forgivable” so it doesn’t have to be paid back, and there are no resale or borrower repayment restrictions. In the state of Wisconsin, appraisal cost (up to $700) is credited back at closing. This program is not yet available in Hawaii or Washington. To qualify, a borrower need only meet one of the following very flexible requirements: a current, retired, volunteer or professional first responder (police officer, firefighter, paramedic, emergency medical technician, etc.), educator, medical personnel, civil servant or military personnel, or a first-time homebuyer or meet certain income requirements. “We’re excited to introduce our Advantage Program to the Heroes Mortgage platform,” said Bill Packer, executive vice president of eLEND, a division of American Financial Resources, Inc. “It’s our way of trying to help hometown heroes advance their dreams of home ownership.” For more information or to check your eligibility for The Advantage Program, visit www.heroesmortgage.com/AdvantageProgram or call 877-541-HERO.
For more information or to check your eligibility for The Advantage Program, visit www.heroesmortgage.com/AdvantageProgram or call 877-541-HERO.
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January, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
New Beginnings Chaplain’s Corner Didymus McHugh
Just because we may have to get a calendar for a new year does not necessarily mean that we should hold off changing until January 1st. I know that many times we may set New Year’s resolutions, but how many of them do we see through until completion? There have been so many changes that we have made in our lives that did not wait for January 1st. When did you sign an application to join emergency services or another organization? How about starting a new job, if the fire services is not your paying job? Did you have a discussion with your wife to make sure that the baby was born on January 1st? She would laugh. So, you start to get the point. We have our clients who have to start new lives because of a house fire, or maybe a diagnosis from the doctor, or a love one died. We have people effected by tornados, wildland fires, hurricanes, and other natural disasters. These are traumatic events that we have no choice over, but they are a new beginning. I know that the phrase that I was not wild about was that it was the “new normal”. When someone has something like these events in their life, that comment will be the last thing that they want to hear. Think about the one person that you just had to rescue from their house and the only thing that they have is that bar of soap that they are clinging onto, or the slippers on their feet. They definitely have a new beginning, but it was thrust upon them. We do have new beginnings that we can control. You control when you want to stop smoking, start exercising, stop drinking, stop using that substance, or behaving a certain way and get assistance. We do have control of so much in our lives; there are so many things that we do not realize we have control over, and then things that we have no control over. There are many new beginnings each and every day. Some we are joyful for, others are full of sadness and despair. The one thing that I want to let you know is that you are not alone in this thing called life. There are people around you to assist you. They may not know what to do but they just may be there to talk with you. But you are not alone. I have seen so many people who have gone through hell and back, who some people would see as crushed, but they made it through. They had someone,
some people that they can rely on. No matter how challenging your new beginning is, remember that you always have God. He has never left you. He is here to listen to your praises and your gripes. If you ever feel like griping to God, just read from the book of Psalms. Many of the writings are written like the author is coming to God with all their problems and then they get that moment of clarity, the V-8 moment. God is there, is the strength that can be drawn upon. I wish that you all have the success in your new beginnings. Please don’t forget that the new beginning can be a minute from now. Remember the resources that
WHERE ARE THEY NOW? you have, that you know about, and that you may discover resources that you never knew were right around you. Look for the inspiration. Listen to the whispers in the wind. Encouragement can come from anywhere at any time. I know that this article is being read by the one person who needs encouragement at this particular time. Most people may not believe it, but this is an appointment from God. He wants to give you the strength in your deepest time. He wants to encourage you for your next step. Stay safe, Didymus McHugh didymus-mchugh.com
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
Hazle Twp. Fire & Rescue have acquired this 1998 Seagrave 100' TDA that formally served in Paxtonia, PA as Truck 34. Much of the work on the truck was done in-house, including the green paint job. The truck was originally white-over-red.
$50 OFF INSTANTLY Phase 2 is available!
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
January, 2019
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January, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
Vehicle News
The Duncannon Fire Co. has taken delivery of this 2019 The Han-Le-Co Fire Co. has taken delivery of this 2018 The Steelton FD has taken delivery of this 2018 Pierce Pierce Enforcer Rescue/Pumper. Rescue 3341 is Enforcer (1500/500), designated as Engine 50. KME (1500/500) Severe Service engine. equipped with a 1500-GPM pump, 500-gallon tank and 30-gallon foam tank. DALE FEEHRER
DENNIS WETHERHOLD JR.
DALE FEEHRER
City of Lancaster Fire-Rescue has taken delivery of a Manheim Twp. Fire Rescue now utilizes this 2018/06 Denver Fire Company now runs this 2018 Pierce En- 2018 Pierce Enforcer PUC (1500/500/107') Ascendant. Pierce 100' Tiller. Truck 209 will be used as a reserve unit. forcer 1750/1000/30F. This piece was purchased as a demo unit from Pierce and will be designated as Truck 2. FRANK ROBINSON
FRANK ROBINSON
DALE FEEHRER
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
January, 2019
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January, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
One Injured After Tractor-Trailer and Pickup Truck Crash Head-On in Cass Twp. Cass Twp., PA - Around 3:00 P.M. on Saturday, December 8th, Schuylkill County 911 dispatched Cass T o w n s h i p (Heckscherville and South Cass Stations) JUMP TO FILE# with District 52 121318110 (Minersville FireRescue) to the intersection of Keystone Blvd. East and Highridge Park Rd. in Cass Township for an MVA with injuries. While en route, units were advised of a head-on crash involving a tractor-trailer and pickup truck. Crews arrived on scene to find all occupants self-extricated, with vehicles blocking the intersection. A significant fuel spill was noted and firefighters began to mitigate the situation. One patient was transported with injuries while firefighters laid down absorbent and directed traffic. The Pennsylvania State Police were on the scene to investigate. - JC KRIESHER
Get your personal copy of
A large amount of diesel fuel spilled onto the ground following this collision in Cass Twp. One person was injured and transported to the hospital.
JC KRIESHER
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
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FF Dalton Stettler was awarded the 2018 Firefighter of the Year award.
PROVIDED
Whitehall Bureau of Fire Holds 2018 Annual Banquet
The Whitehall Bureau of Fire held their 2018 Annual Banquet on November 24th at the Fullerton Fire hall. Chief David Nelson presented the awards.
RAINMAN14
The Donaldson Fire Co. still runs this 1980 Hahn/1993 Pierce Pumper Refurb with 500-Gallon/1500-GPM pump as Schuylkill County Engine 12-10.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
January, 2019
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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
Harrisburg International Airport Fire Department IAFF Local 4838 is located in Middletown (Dauphin County), PA.
Engine 703 is a 2002 KME1500 4x4 featuring 1500-gallons of water, 200-gallons of 3% foam, 450-lbs. PKW and a 2000-GMP pump.
TIMOTHY COOVER
TIMOTHY COOVER
Harrisburg International Airport FD IAFF Local 4838 provides ARFF, Fire/Rescue, and EMS services to Harrisburg International Airport and surrounding municipalities.
Squad 706.
TIMOTHY COOVER
Chief 70 duty vehicle.
TIMOTHY COOVER
Rescue 70 is a 1989 Pierce Dash walk-in.
TIMOTHY COOVER
TIMOTHY COOVER
Engine 701 is a 2000 Oshkosh TI featuring 3000-gallons of water, 420-gallons of 3% afff foam, 460lbs. of Halatron agent and a 2000-GMP pump.
TIMOTHY COOVER
Engine 702 is a 1998 E-One Titan 4x4 featuring 1500-gallons of water, 200-gallons of 3% afff foam, 450-lbs. PKW and a 1250-GMP pump.
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January, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
One person died in this single-vehicle crash in Lake Harmony on 11/3/18.
J. LENNON PROVIDED
Fatal Crash in Lake Harmony Takes One Life Chief Makes Grab at Two-Alarm Lake Harmony, PA - On Saturday, November 3rd at 4:20 P.M., Carbon County Communications received multiple calls for a singlevehicle crash on South Lake Drive in Lake Harmony. Fire Districts 17 and 16, along with Lake Harmony Ambulance and Lehighton ALS were dispatched. Rescue 17 arrived to find a passenger vehicle with heavy damage resting on top of a boat trailer hitch. Crews stabilized the vehicle and
JUMP TO FILE #110418116 popped the rear door for the rapid extrication of a male victim from the rear seat. The extrication took less than five minutes to perform, but unfortunately he did not survive his injuries. Two others from the vehicle were not injured, while the third was transported to an area hospital.
An air medical helicopter was dispatched, but later recalled by EMS command. Lake Harmony's Rescue 17 and Engine 17, along with fire police from Lake Harmony, Albrightsville and Penn Forest Township were on scene for six-and-a-half hours while the Pennsylvania State Police reconstruction team completed their investigation. - JOSEPH LENNON
EMERGENCY WATERCRAFT If you have photos you would like to see in our Emergency Watercraft feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
House Fire in Tafton Tafton, PA - On Tuesday, November 6th at 1:50 P.M., the Tafton Fire Company was alerted for a reported structure fire in the Tanglwood North Community. Upon arrival, Chief Mike Miller (37-1) confirmed a working structure fire with an occupant trapped. Chief Miller made entry and was able to remove the victim prior to the arrival of the first-in engine. The victim was treated for minor burns and scrapes, but refused transport. Tafton E1 arrived on scene and stretched two lines. An aggressive interior attack quickly knocked down the main body of fire while the second line extinguished fire on the exterior of the
JUMP TO FILE #110718114 structure. The cause of the fire was believed to be from a faulty wood stove. Several departments from Pike and Wayne Counties were requested on the initial alarm, with more requested for the secondalarm. Promised Land, Blooming Grove, Dingman Township (RIT), Forest, Hawley, Greeley, White Mills, Ledgedale and Lakeville all responded with equipment and manpower. - BRIAN MAGEE
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.
KEN SNYDER
Marine 98 of the Morrisville Fire Company is a '05 DuraCraft equipped with rope bags and other marine rescue equipment.
JC KRIESHER
Fairview Twp. Engine 1 (Mountain Top Hose Co.) operates as the first-due engine to a house fire.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
January, 2019
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January, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
RAINMAN14
Head-On Collision Involving TractorTrailer in Maidencreek Twp.
JC KRIESHER
Firefighters take a handline in through a second floor window at a two-alarm fire in Fairview Twp. (Luzerne County).
Second-Alarm Struck in Fairview Twp. Fairview Twp., PA – Around 9:00 A.M. on Wednesday, December 5th, Luzerne County 911 sent Fairview Twp. and Wright Twp. Fire Departments to 181 Gracedale Avenue in Fairview for a residential structure fire. Additional dispatches relayed that police were reporting fire through the roof. A second-alarm was dispatched with Hanover Twp., Nanticoke, Slocum Twp. and Ashley, however only Hanover and Nanticoke responded to the scene. Firefighters arrived to find fire showing from one room that appeared to be an add-on above the garage of a single-family dwelling. A line was stretched and brought up a ladder to begin to knock down the fire. Crews entered through the window of the fire room and continued to extinguish the fire. The initial hydrant tagged by Mountain Top was found to be frozen, so Wright Twp. secured another hydrant, laying across
JUMP TO FILE #121318106 Route 437 and the nearby railroad tracks to bring in the water supply. Additional firefighters entered the house through the front door and opened windows while stretching a second line to the second floor. The bulk of the fire was knocked down within 10 minutes of firefighters arriving on scene. As the fire was knocked down, steam and light smoke continued to escape from the eaves and peak of the roof, leading a crew to ascend to the roof and open up a small vent hole. Local EMS personnel were on scene checking vital signs of firefighters who had been working inside. PPL was also on scene to disconnect power from the residence. Crews remained on scene for nearly three hours before clearing. - JC KRIESHER
Maidencreek Twp., PA - Just before 9:45 P.M. on Friday, December 7th, Blandon Fire Co., along with Temple Fire Co., Union Fire Co. of Leesport, and Northern Berks EMS, were dispatched to the intersection of Park Road and Dries Road for a reported MVA with entrapment involving a tractor-trailer into a vehicle. Medic 672-1 went en route seconds after dispatch and was informed of a tractor-trailer into a car with one person possibly trapped.
JUMP TO FILE #121218123 With the additional, the Northern Berks Medic requested their second truck to the scene. Police arrived shortly before EMS and confirmed a head-on accident with negative entrapment and one person with chest pains. Medic 672-1 confirmed no rescue and canceled the second EMS truck upon their arrival. Ladder 12
(Blandon) arrived and assisted with patient care. Engine 12 and Rescue 11 (Temple) arrived as Company 37 (Leesport) was recalled. Fire police were called to assist with shutting down the road. After police completed their investigation, crews mitigated fluids and helped clean debris with the tow truck. Companies cleared the scene shortly after and the roadway was reopened.
RICHARD BILLINGS
- LUCAS RICHARDSON
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
January, 2019
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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 Lafayette Fire Co. continues to operate this 1978/1992 PAFA Mack CF (1500/500/200AFFF) as Engine 63-2. This piece also serves as part of the Lancaster County foam task force.
Flames shoot from the roof of the Beltway Diner in Hazleton. The diner was completely destroyed by the fire. JC KRIESHER
Fire Destroys Popular Hazleton Restaurant
BRETT J. FASSNACHT
Robert Fulton Fire Company in Wakefield (Lancaster County) still operates this 1984 Mack R Model/Pierce as Tanker 89. This 34-yearold unit features a 1000-GPM pump and a 3000-gallon water tank.
Hazleton, PA – Shortly before 10:30 P.M. on Thursday, November 1st, Luzerne County 911 dispatched Hazleton City Fire to 250 South Church Street for a reported commercial structure fire. Chief 2 was advised of multiple calls reporting fire through the roof of the Beltway Diner. Units arrived on scene to find heavy smoke and flames showing from the roof of the single-story restaurant. Ladder 1 arrived and took the address while Engine 2 went to the “B” side and secured a water supply. Rescue 3 secured an additional water supply.
JUMP TO FILE #121318105 Chief 2 requested a working fire dispatch and for reserve apparatus to be placed in service. This request brought Ladder Tower 1, Engine 5, Utility 6 and the Chief of the Department to the scene. Firefighters attempted to make entry into the dining area to attack the fire from inside, but were pulled out after the roof began to be compromised due to heavy fire burning beneath. Master streams were put into
service from both aerial devices, and crews worked handlines through the windows. After pouring water through the roof for 20 minutes, the fire was darkened down and the smoke turned to steam, bringing the fire mostly under control. Firefighters remained on the scene into the morning hours working the incident. Hazle Township and McAdoo Fire companies were moved up to city fire stations during the incident to provide coverage. - JC KRIESHER
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
FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
Vacant Home Destroyed in North Braddock
North Braddock, PA – At 11:42 A.M. on December 10th, firefighters were dispatched to a reported house on fire located in the 1100 block of Wilkins Avenue in North Braddock. The caller reported that they could see smoke and flames coming from a house in that area. Responding units notified dispatch and confirmed the caller's report. Units arrived to find a one-story vacant home with heavy fire showing. A defensive attack was commenced immediately. Crews then learned that there were two sub-division levels with no visible fire coming from those levels. The fire was finally placed under control at 12:44 P.M. No one was injured, and the Allegheny County Fire Marshal was investigating.
JASON BATZ
The City of Reading recently took delivery of this Ford F-250 pickup to be used by the Fire Marshal. The previous FM pickup is being converted into a brush vehicle.
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January, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
DON SCICCHITANO
Northumberland County Firefighters Battle Blaze During Winter Storm Avery
BRETT MACK
Firefighters arrived with fire showing at this dwelling in the 400 block of West Greenwich St. Initial reports stated a child was still inside, but all occupants made it out safely.
Two Alarms Struck for Fire on West Greenwich St. in Reading Reading, PA - Around 9:30 P.M. on November 10th, a box alarm was transmitted for the 400 block of West Greenwich Street in Reading. Frantic phone calls were being made to the Berks County DES call center reporting a structure fire with a person trapped inside and out on the roof. Engine 7 arrived with fire showing at a three-story MOR. Chief Stoudt (C4) confirmed 408 West Greenwich Street and noted fire showing from two floors, both front and rear. With the reports of people trapped, Stoudt requested a second-alarm with an additional medic unit. Crews stretched hose lines into the dwelling to protect the stairs while others searched the smoke-filled rooms. Engine 9 made the rear and stretched a twoand-a-half inch line to knock down a large volume of fire traveling up the exterior. Searching firefighters were halted due to compromised stairs to the third
Mount Carmel, PA - On November 15th around 3:00 P.M., the Mount Carmel Fire Department was alerted to a first-alarm working fire in the Borough with possible entrapment. As units started to respond, they were told that police were on scene confirming a working fire and that they were evacuating the building. Shortly after units began to arrive, fire started showing from the 'Alpha/Charlie' side of Division one. Units tried to make an aggressive interior attack, but were
JUMP TO FILE #111618117 forced back due to heavy fire conditions. An evacuation order was issued when part of the second division collapsed. Units pulled out and focused on protecting the exposures and/or limiting the spread. Power was also cut to the area for part of the blaze due to a reported gas leak. Power was restored a short time later. Displaced occupants were assisted on scene by the Red Cross.
Units on scene included Utility 223, Fire Police 80, Ladder 2, Chief 2, Fire Police 180, MICU 93, Ladder 32, Engine 21, Chief 1, Ambulance 917, Fire Police 6, Chief 201, Engine 2, Chief 200, Engine 3, Chief 202, MICU 92, Rescue 62, Chief 3, Rescue 5 And Squad 221. Standby units included Engine 41, SC Truck 38-25, Engine 151, Engine 11, Engine 25, Quint 294, Squad 175 and CC Engine 331. - DON FILIPPO SCICCHITANO
JUMP TO FILE #111118104 floor. A portable ladder was used to allow for access. Aerial ladders from Ladders 1 and 3 were placed for roof operations, which were quite extensive due to lateral spread through the cockloft. All searches proved negative, with the exception of kittens found alive in the home. The fire was placed under control two hours later. Several people were treated and transported to Reading Hospital. No other injuries were reported, and the Fire Marshal's Office was investigating. An animal rescue league representative took care of the animals. Units from West Reading, Spring Twp., Muhlenberg EMS, and the City Canteen assisted. - JASON BATZ
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FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
Dryer Sparks House Fire in North Versailles North Versailles, PA – On November 21st at 3:20 P.M., fire units were dispatched to 28 Markle Street in North Versailles for a reported residential structure fire. The first arriving unit reported smoke showing, then shortly after reported heavy fire coming from the rear of the structure. A secondalarm was requested due to limited access and hydrants on that particular street. Crews went to work attacking the fire, which was finally placed under control just over an hour later at 4:28 P.M. Crews then stayed on scene to perform overhaul. An elderly couple was home at the time of the fire, but managed to escape without injury. The fire was determined to have started in a dryer in the basement of the structure. The American Red Cross was called in to assist the couple.
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January, 2019
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