PUBLISHING SINCE 1993
The Pennsylvania Edition
SEE OUR ADS ON PAGES 11&64
HOME SUBSCRIPTION - $36/YEAR
WWW.1RBN.COM
JUNE, 2019
HEAVY FIRE DOES SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE TO HOME IN WHITEHALL TWP.
SCOTT M. NAGY
Whitehall Twp., PA - Whitehall Bureau of Fire was dispatched to a structure fire on April 28th at 9:41 A.M. Initial reports stated that there was heavy smoke coming out of the kitchen window. Dispatch returned to say there were now flames showing. - See full story on page 27
eLEND joins Heroes Mortgage Program to offer down payment assistance for heroes SEE PAGE 30 FOR DETAILS.
WELCOME TO THE SHOW! Come Visit 1st Responder Newspaper at our Booth #482-483 Hall E
PAGE 2
June, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
ADVERTISER INDEX
A guide to finding great companies
Company
1st Out Specialty Veh. 911 Rapid Response
Page 37
13
All Hands Fire Equip.
41
American Trademark Armor Tuff Flooring Backstop USA
Campbell Supply.
CILS Incorporated
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
55
14
32
1,11,64
Command Fire App.
33
MARK KULP
Reading Brush Equipment is shown together during a fire in Lower Alsace Township. Brush 1 shown on the lower right was recently placed in service a few days prior.
29,36
Emergency Equip. Sales 35 Fire Expo 2019
28
Fire Flow Services
19
Firehouse Expo
25
Fire Line Equipment
7
Fouts Bros Fire Equip.
21
Hoffman Radio Network
23
Marco Equipment Sales
5
Kimtek Corporation Marion Body
Mid Atlantic Rescue NY Chiefs Show
FRANK ROBINSON
Kulpmont West End Fire Co. still owns their 1976 Hahn 1250/500 Engine.
17
53
3,63
Ray’s Pagers
Spectrum Comm. Sutphen
TurboDraft
Urban Fire Training Valtek
Waterous
Waterway
59
16
57
39 2
31
47 9
15
CORPORATE INFORMATION
1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - Pennsylvania edition - Vol. 23 No. 6 - 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.
845-534-7500 • (fax) 845-534-0055 info@belsito.com
PUBLICATION CONTENT
Notice: The advertisements, articles, and letters contained in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of 1st Responder Inc. and Belsito Communications, Inc. Advertisements are sold pursuant to the "space available" and corresponding fee schedule. The mere fact that advertisements are contained in this publication does not express nor imply that 1st Responder Inc. and Belsito Communications, Inc. vouches for the credibility of the claims made in the advertisements or the representations expressed or implied in them.
DALE FEEHRER
This 1961 Ford/American LaFrance pumper was once owned by the Liberty Fire Co. of East Berlin. Engine 11 is now privately owned and was recently spotted at a car show in Lancaster County.
Wind-Swept Brush Fire Scorches Several Acres on Neversink Mountain Reading, PA - On Wednesday, April 17th, a worker at the Reading Wastewater Treatment Plant observed a column of smoke coming from Neversink Mountain. At 12:00 P.M., dispatchers sent brush units along with Engine 1 to the area to locate the fire. While units were responding, Chief Thorpe (Car 6) was advised by the communications center that they were receiving multiple phone calls reporting a sizable fire spreading fast up the mountain. At 12:10 P.M., Chief Thorpe requested additional assistance from Lower Alsace, Cumru and Exeter, along with the Berks Emergency Strike Team. Units were finally able to access the fire via South 20th Street, at which time they notified dispatch that the fire was actually in Lower Alsace Township. Lower
JUMP TO FILE #042219114 Alsace Deputy Chief Robert Mountz took control of the scene moments later and requested help from Mount Penn, Birdsboro, Gibralter, Earl and Monocacy. With firefighters working the steep terrain, more water would be required. Firefighters used tankers from several fire companies to supply water for suppression. The progress of the fire was stopped at 2:00 P.M. after five-acres had burned. State forestry units remained on scene with assistance from the Brecknock Fire Company and the incident was placed under control at 6:19 P.M. - JASON BATZ
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
June, 2019
Visit us in the North West Hall
PAGE 3
PAGE 4
June, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
Pittsburgh Firefighters Arrive to Find Three Vacant Homes on Fire City of Pittsburgh, PA – At 1:24 P.M. on April 29th, City of Pittsburgh firefighters were dispatched to fire zone 3-10 in the area of Larimer Avenue and Meadow Street for a reported house on fire. Responding units confirmed heavy smoke coming from the area. Fire units arrived to find three vacant homes on fire, with heavy fire showing from the middle home. A second-alarm was immediately requested and a defensive attack was established. Once the bulk of the fire was knocked down, crews were able to enter
JUMP TO FILE #043019100 two of the three homes to begin knocking down hot spots. Just about one hour into the fire, command requested a thirdalarm for manpower. The fire was brought under control at 2:46 P.M. Crews then remained on scene extinguishing hot spots and for overhaul. No injuries were reported and the fire is now under investigation. - ERIC RASMUSSEN
Flames showing from the middle home as crews attack the fire.
FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
June, 2019
PAGE 5
PAGE 6
June, 2019
1 ARDMORE STREET • NEW WINDSOR, NY 12553
845-534-7500 • (fax) 845-534-0055 • News@1stResponderNews.com
EXECUTIVE STAFF PUBLISHER
Joseph P. Belsito (Joe@1stResponderNews.com) ••• GENERAL MANAGER
Kathy Ronsini (Kathy@1stResponderNews.com) ••• PRODUCTION DIRECTOR
Ashley Ramos (Ashley@1stResponderNews.com) ••• MANAGING EDITOR
Lindsey Palmer (Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com) ••• CIRCULATION MANAGER
Michelle Belsito (Michelle@1stResponder.com)
••• DISPATCHER RECRUITMENT & RETENTION (Rich@1stResponder.com)
••• OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR
Nicole Gold (Nicole@1stResponderNews.com) EDITORIAL STAFF COLUMNISTS •••
Rick Billings (Cartoon) AJ Fusco (Food Blog) Bob Long (Cartoon) John Malecky (Apparatus, Video, Bookshelf) Didymus McHugh (Chaplain’s Corner) Joel Miller (Social Media) Robert “Pip” Piparo (Health & Fitness) Fernando Villicana (Chaplain’s Corner)
CORRESPONDENTS •••
Adam Alberti • Jim Alercia • Stephen Barrett • Jason Batz • Denny Clopper • Timothy Coover • Scott Derr • Bob Devonshire • Dale Feerher • Patrick Griffin • Dylan Hoover • Roman Isaryk • Ron Jeffers • Doug Kahn • William King • Nik Knauer • JC Kriesher • Seth Lasko • Joseph Lennon • Brett Mack • John Malecky • Anthony Miccicke • Kirk Neidermyer • Artie Osniak • Eric Rasmussen • Lucas Richardson • Terry Ritz • Frank Robinson • Shane Shifflett • Jesse Shutt • Darin Smith • Ken Snyder • Raymond Stender • Mark Walsh • Eugene Weber Jr • Barbara West • Dennis Wetherhold Jr.
EDITORIAL INFORMATION
Join our team of correspondents or columnists! 1st Responder Newspaper welcomes submissions by our readers. Send stories and photos to us at news@1strespondernews.com. Or, give us a call or post it directly to www.1rbn.co. Publisher reserves the right to refuse any editorial or advertising material submitted.
845-534-7500 ext. 212 • (fax) 845-534-0055 News@1stResponderNews.com
ADVERTISING INFORMATION
If you would like information about how advertising in 1st Responder News can benefit your company call our advertising hotline at:
845-534-7500 ext. 211 • (fax) 845-534-0055 Advertising@1stResponderNews.com
CIRCULATION INFORMATION
1st Responder Newspaper is delivered to all fire, rescue, ambulance stations and hospitals. If you do not receive your papers, please contact our circulation department. Home subscriptions are $36 per year.
845-534-7500 ext. 220 • (fax) 845-534-0055 Circulation@1stResponderNews.com
GRAPHIC DESIGN/MARKETING
1st Responder News’ graphics team will work with you on your adverA division of: tisement free of charge. Additionally, we offer a complete marketing department for all of your printed needs. Whether they are posters, or single sheet handouts, full color or black and white, no one else delivers the high quality work at our competitive prices. As a newspaper in the Belsito Communications Inc. family, 1st Responder News has a state-of-the-art production facility which utilizes the latest scanning technology available. Materials are processed using Power Macintosh G4s. Output is handled on our HP Color LaserJet 8500 to produce the highest quality black and white or color prints on the market.
845-534-7500 ext. 214 • (fax) 845-534-0055
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
Illinois: Jacob "Jake" Ringering, 37 Rank: Captain Incident Date: March 5, 2019 Death Date: March 5, 2019 Fire Department: Godfrey Fire Protection District Initial Summary: While at the scene of a residential structure fire, Captain Jacob Ringering and three additional firefighters were injured when a portion of the structure collapsed as they attacked the fire. Ringering was taken to the hospital where he passed away from the injuries he sustained. One of the additional firefighters was flown by helicopter to the hospital where he is in stable condition. The two remaining firefighters were treated and released. Pennsylvania: Michael Bernstein, 46 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: March 20, 2019 Death Date: March 20, 2019 Fire Department: Philadelphia Fire Department Initial Summary: Firefighter Michael Bernstein suffered a medical emergency while on-duty at Engine 78 at Philadelphia International Airport. Bernstein was transported to Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital where he passed away. The nature and cause of fatal injury are still to be determined.
California: Daniel Laird, 41 Rank: Captain Incident Date: March 27, 2019 Death Date: March 27, 2019 Fire Department: United States Forest Service Tahoe National Forest Initial Summary: While helping with an aerial delivered prescribed burn in the Sam Houston National Forest in Texas, Captain Daniel Laird’s helicopter went down. Laird passed away from the injuries he sustained in the crash. Other crew members sustained non-lifethreatening injuries. Connecticut: James "Woody" Woodman, 55 Rank: Firefighter/Paramedic Incident Date: October 5, 1999 Death Date: March 29, 2019 Fire Department: West Haven Fire Department
Initial Summary: Firefighter/Paramedic James “Woody” Woodman was a member of Recruit Class #15 at the Connecticut State Fire Academy. Only two days after being out of the academy, on October 5, 1999, Woodman was part of an ambulance crew transporting a child who had been struck by a vehicle to the Yale-New Haven Hospital. As they neared the hospital, the ambulance was broadsided by a bus and rolled over multiple times. Woodman sustained a traumatic brain injury that resulted in his living in a long-term care facility until his death on March 29, 2019. The child who was being transported and other crew members of the ambulance were seriously injured but have all made complete recoveries. New Jersey: John "Jack" Leming, 78 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: April 15, 2019 Death Date: April 15, 2019 Fire Department: Cape May Point Volunteer Fire Company #1 Initial Summary: Firefighter John Leming attended a drill on 04/15/2019 at the fire station at approximately 7:00 pm. At the conclusion of the drill, he returned home. During the night, he became ill. His wife called 911 and EMS responded. During transport to a local hospital, Leming went into cardiac arrest and life saving measures were not successful. Leming was pronounced deceased shortly after his arrival at the hospital. South Dakota: Dwain Hudson, 73 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: April 17, 2019 Death Date: April 17, 2019 Fire Department: Argyle Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: On April 17, 2019, Argyle Volunteer Fire Department was called to an active wildland fire that was endangering structures. While responding as a passenger in the department’s compressed air foam truck, Firefighter Dwain Hudson experienced a medical emergency. Firefighters and EMS personnel immediately provided emergency medical aid to Hudson. He was transported to Custer Regional Hospital where resuscitation efforts continued but were not successful. Hudson was pronounced deceased at the hospital.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
June, 2019
PAGE 7
PAGE 8
June, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
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 Chambersburg FD operates this 2018 Pierce Enforcer (1500/500) as Engine 1-1.
DENNY CLOPPER
Tractor-Trailer Fire Shuts Down I-81 for Several Hours in Southampton Twp. Southampton Twp., PA - On the evening of April 23rd, the Cumberland County 9-1-1 Communication Center received reports of a tractor-trailer fire in Southampton Township on Interstate 81, in the area of the 30.5 mm. Units due on Box 2-52-97 from Shippensburg’s Vigilant Hose Co. and Walnut Bottom’s South Newton Twp. Fire Co. were alerted for the call at 5:20 P.M. Fire crews approaching the scene observed a large column of heavy black smoke as Newville Fire Chief Daniel Burkett confirmed a working fire. Chief Burkett arrived at the 31.2 mm to find a flatbed tractor-trailer, loaded with multiple fiberglass pools, fully engulfed in flames. Chief Burkett established command and immediately requested an additional tanker on the assignment as he began to conduct a scene size-up. Firefighters on Vigilant Hose Co.’s Engine 2-52 arrived and rapidly deployed attack lines to begin the fire attack. Additional firefighters from South Newton Twp. arrived and assisted with suppression operations. The location of the blaze hampered crews with water supply, which Chief Burkett quickly rec-
JUMP TO FILE #042719101 ognized during his size-up, at which time he requested additional tankers along with an additional engine to establish a fill site for tanker shuttle operations. Firefighters battled heavy fire conditions that were beginning to spread up the hill beside the trailer. The massive blaze took several hours to bring under control. Command called for additional crews from surrounding jurisdictions to assist on the incident, bringing in over 30 emergency personnel to the scene from multiple departments across Cumberland and Franklin Counties. The northbound lane of I-81 had to be shut down throughout the duration of the incident due to the heavy smoke and other hazardous conditions, causing major delays for commuters. The bulk of the blaze was knocked down around 8:00 P.M., and it took emergency crews nearly an additional hour to conduct overhaul operations before the scene could be turned over to Pennsylvania State Highway personnel, who then began clearing the remaining hazards.
The northbound lanes of I-81 were closed for nearly four-and-ahalf hours as units worked the incident. Penn Dot reported all lanes open and that traffic was flowing in both directions around 10:00 P.M. that night. Cumberland County emergency services units responded to the incident from Shippensburg’s Vigilant Hose Co. (Co.52), Walnut Bottom’s South Newton Twp. V.F.C. (Co.49), Penn Twp. V.F.C. (Co.50), Cumberland Valley Hose (Air 53), Newville’s Friendship Hose Co. (Co.47), Carlisle Fire & Rescue (Air 45), Shippensburg Emergency Medical Services (Co.73), and several Cumberland County Fire Police Traffic units. Mutual aid assistance was received from Franklin County’s West End Fire Co. (Co.15) and Franklin County Fire Police units. Additional assistance was received from New Kingstown Fire Co. (Co.33), Upper Frankford Twp. Fire Co. (Co.48) and Newburg-Hopewell V.F.C. (Co.51), who responded with units to transfer in to area stations to cover the area while units were committed on the scene.
KEN SNYDER
Engine 4211 of the Northampton Fire Department is a 2018 Pierce Enforcer 1500/750/40.
FRANK ROBINSON
The Lavelle Vol. Fire Company operates this 2008 Freightliner/Midwest 1250/2000 Pumper/Tanker.
- WILLIAM KING
Visit us on the web! www.1rbn.com
The Maytown/East Donegal Twp. Fire Department in Lancaster County operates this 2015 Ford F-550 with a remounted box as Rescue 79-2.
BRETT FASSNACHT/CV FIRE APPARATUS
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
June, 2019
PAGE 9
PAGE 10
June, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
HE HE ER ERO ROES RO OES ES INK INK
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.
1st Responder Newspape er features EMERGENCY SERVICES RELA ATED TATTOOS
DALE FEEHRER
The Lancaster Twp. FD now operates this 2016 Seagrave Marauder II-95' Aerialscope tower, designated as Truck 66, that formally served in Falls Twp., PA.
DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
The Peters Twp. Fire Co. sold their 2002 Ferrara ladder to Charleroi FD, who have since placed it into service as Truck 33. Features include a 2000-GPM pump, 770 water and 75' rear-mount ladder.
This tattoo belongs to Daniel Pfeiffer, a 44-year member and past chief of Delran Fire Dept. Station #232 in Delran, NJ. The four helmets in the tattoo represent the four generations of firefighters in his family. "I'm the son of a past station chief, the grandson of a past Delanco fire chief, and my son is currently an engineer with the Lexington Fire Dept. in Lexington, South Carolina," said Daniel.
Would you like your emergency services related tattoo featured here? Contact Lindsey at
Lindsey@1strespondernews.com KEN SNYDER
Truck 21 of the Pottsville FD runs this 2014 Pierce Arrow XT 100', which originally saw service in Brevard County, FL.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
June, 2019
PAGE 11
PAGE 12
June, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
Crews Battle Second-Alarm House Fire in North Braddock North Braddock, PA - At 12:30 P.M. on April 25th, fire units were dispatched to the 1400 block of Grandview Avenue in North Braddock for a re- JUMP TO FILE# ported house on 042519111 fire. Shortly after dispatch, the North Braddock station reported seeing a header from their station. Crews arrived quickly, found heavy smoke showing from a home and immediately began an interior attack. Interior crews found heavy fire in the basement, running the walls of the home. A second-alarm was requested as crews continued to open walls and ceilings to extinguish the fire. The fire was placed under control at 1:25 P.M. No one was home at the time, but the homeowner's cat unfortunately perished in the fire. The cause is now under investigation. - ERIC RASMUSSEN
Crews force the basement door.
FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
June, 2019
PAGE 13
PAGE 14
June, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
Resident Jumps from Window to Escape Fire in Northampton Home Northampton, PA - Fire heavily damaged a three-story dwelling located at 103 E. 1st Street on April 6th. The working fire went to two alarms be- JUMP TO FILE# fore being con- 042619101 tained, with responses from seven departments. The homeowners were away at the time of the fire, but their son who was sleeping at the time, had to flee from a second-floor window. He was able to jump onto a lower roof where he was then assisted by neighbors. The fire occured around 11:45 A.M. and was contained in about one hour with companies eventually taking up. There were no known injuries reported. - KEN SNYDER
KEN SNYDER
ONE DAY INSTALLATION! LIFETIME WARRANTY Cannot Crack or Fail EVER!
8:00 AM
5:00 PM SAME DAY
DON’T BE FOOLED BY SUPRATILE IMITATIONS OLIVE FD OLIVEBRIDGE, NY
Priced Comparable to Epoxy Goes Right Over Your Old Floor
OCEAN COMPANY #1 POINT PLEASANT BEACH, NJ
ARMOR-TUFF FLOORS, DIVISION OF ARMORPOXY sales@armor-tuff.com • www.armor-tuff.com • 855-72FLOOR
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
June, 2019
PAGE 15
PAGE 16
June, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
FIREFIGHTER PROFILES If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Firefighter Profiles� feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
NIK KANUER
Congratulations to Reading FF Robert "Bobby" Himes on 27-years of combined service to the city. Bobby originally joined the Hampden Fire Co. in 1992 before being appointed on April 18, 1994. After completing training, Himes was assigned to the 'D' platoon. In 1996, Bob moved over to the 'B' platoon and got a position on Engine 1. After a few years away, Himes moved back to the 'D' platoon on Engine 9. Bob's final assignment came in 2002 when he was assigned to Engine 11. FF Himes would finish his career after working 17-years with the company, which was re-designated as Engine 7 in 2011. We wish Bob the best in retirement!
DID YOU K NOW
?
The first arrest due to an emergency call happened on July 8, 1937, at 4:20 a.m. when the wife of John Stanley Beard dialed 999 to report a burglar outside her home in England. The burglar, 24-year-old Thomas Duffys, was arrested.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
June, 2019
PAGE 17
PAGE 18
June, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
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
RAINMAN14
Ladders were thrown on multiple sides of the building to access the roof.
Two-Alarm Roof Fire Damages Commercial Building in Norristown Norristown, PA - On April 10th at approximately 6:14 P.M., the Montgomery County Emergency Operations Center dropped tones for a building fire in Norristown Borough, in the area of 325 West Wood Street. Norristown Station 27, Good Will Engine 32, Norriton Quint and Squad 61, as well as Plymouth Ladder 43, were sent to the area where multiple callers reported seeing black smoke and fire. Captain 27 reported smoke showing from multiple blocks out and requested the working fire dispatch. Seconds later, Barren Hill Squad 29, Lower Providence Rescue 53 and EMS were dispatched to assist Station 27. Captain 27 arrived and reported smoke showing from the roof of a two-and-a-half story commercial building. Captain 27 took command and advised that the correct address was 316 West Poplar Street. Engine 27-3 arrived shortly after and took the hydrant. Deputy 27 arrived and requested additional resources to block the road at Markley and Wood due to vehicles running over hose. The next due engine was directed to come in Astor Street to W Poplar Street to take a hydrant. Engine 27-2 took that assignment and laid into the scene. Crews had trouble with forcible entry and had to use larger tools. Firefighters through ground ladders around the building started stretching lines up the ladders to get a knock on the fire. Command requested the second-alarm for manpower, bringing in Squad 46, Squad 47 and Quint 31, who were originally sent to Station 27-B to cover the area. Ladder 62,
BARRY FISHER
The Keystone Fire Co. of Rehrersburg formerly operated this 1948 Reo pumper with a 300-gallon tank.
JUMP TO FILE #042119102 Ladder 24 and Rescue 49 were also added on the second-alarm. Crews battled the fire in the flat roof section of an unusual sized structure that extended to a peaked roof section of the building. Roof crews reported that they had a good hit on the fire and requested a circular saw to assist with overhaul. With smoke inside the ceiling area below the roof, firefighters checked extensively for fire that could have dropped down. Second-alarm trucks were directed to standby on Astor Street while additional standby companies were dispatched to Station 27-B. At the 20 minute mark, all responding units reduced speed. Additional saws with fresh personnel were brought up to the roof. With overhaul wrapping up, Norristown command confirmed that there was no need for the Field Comm or Canteen. Crews eventually found a spot in which embers were still falling and firefighters wet the area down. With the fire out, crews started breaking down supply lines and companies began being released. Markley Street was reopened as crews cleaned up. Fresh firefighters were sent to the roof to bring equipment down. One-and-a-half hours after the original call, standby companies and firefighters on scene were cleared.
DALE FEEHRER
The Hampden Twp. Vol. Fire Co. still maintains this 1937 Diamond T pumper, which the company purchased used, serving as it's first piece when they were established in 1954.
- LUCAS RICHARDSON
KEN SNYDER
The Community Vol. Fire Company No.1 of Yorkana uses this 1945 Chevy/Darley pumper for parades.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
June, 2019
PAGE 19
PAGE 20
June, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
Vehicle News
DALE FEEHRER
DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
DALE FEEHRER
RAINMAN14
DALE FEEHRER
FRANK ROBINSON
DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
DALE FEEHRER
DALE FEEHRER
KEN SNYDER
RAINMAN14
FRANK ROBINSON
The Hampden Twp. VFC has taken delivery of this 2019 Shippensburg's Cumberland Valley Fire Co. recently The Reliance Hose Co. #1 of Elizabethville has taken dePierce Enforcer (1500/800/Amkus), designated as placed this 2018 Pierce Velocity 100' rear-mount tower livery of this 2019 Pierce Enforcer (1750/1000/20F), desinto service as Truck 53. ignated as Engine 21. Squad 1-30.
The Wyndmoor Hose Co. recently received their new The Penn Twp. Fire Co.#1 has placed this 2017 Ford F- Maytown Fire Department now responds with this 2018 Rosebauer Commander 55’ ACP, designated as Snorkel 550/Darley (1500/30/25F CAFS/Amkus ION) mini-pumper Seagrave 1750/500 as Engine 791. 82. It features a 500-gallon tank and Hale QMAX 1750- into service as Mini-Pumper 50. GPM pump.
The Canonsburg FD of Washington County recently The Penn Twp. Fire Co.#1 has placed this 2018 Ken- The Barlow VFD has taken delivery of this 2019 Freightplaced this 2016 Pierce Quantum (1500 pump/525 water) worth 370/Fouts Brothers (750/2000) tanker into service liner/Pierce (1500/2500) tanker, which will be designated into service as Engine 69-1. as Tanker 1-50. as Adams County Tanker 22.
The Eagle Fire Co. of New Hope has acquired this 2019 The Plymouth Fire Co. recently placed this 2018 Pierce The Wagontown Fire Company now operates this 2018 Pierce/Ford F550 1000/300 mini-pumper to be used as Enforcer, with 55’ sky boom, 500-gallon tank and 150- Freightliner SD40/Summit 1000/3000 Pumper, desigTactical 64. GPM pump, into service as Squirt 43. nated as Tanker 35.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
Bad Call ON THE BOOK SHELF
by John Malecky
Bad Call By Mike Scardino 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 $27.00
This is a 6” x 9” hard cover book with 304 pages. It is a group of memoirs of the author, who worked part time in the late 1960’s on a New York City ambulance in the boro of Queens in order to help pay his tuition in college. There are 43 chapters, plus acknowledgements, and I
PAGE 21
June, 2019
BUDDY SHOTS can certainly tell you that the title very much gives justice to the majority of these calls. If you, the reader, ever ponders the idea of wanting to work on an ambulance (that does emergency calls), read this book and realize what real life is, both on the streets and behind closed doors in the homes and workplaces of these patients! For 24 years I worked both part time in EMS and for a few years answered first responder calls with my fire department, and just when you thought you saw the worst, you eventually see something even more worse! If you thought you had problems, ride an ambulance and see other people’s problems. Then, your own will become less in comparison. This book is not for the weak, especially if you empathize with the author and the situations faced. He also writes about his different partners with reference to the personalities, skills and stamina. This is not a book you would want to put down because each chapter is exciting in its own way!
Mini Pumper
• Ford F-550/Crew/4x4 • F-Mini 132 Pumper • CET Pump Skid • 300 Gallon Poly Tank
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.
JASON BATZ
The 2019 Reading Fire Department recruit class poses for a photo before their first live-fire drill.
$136k
Tanker
• Kenworth T370 • F-3000 • Darley Pump • UPF 3000 Gallon Tank • Manual Dump Valve • 2 Hinged Door Compartments • 3000 Gallon Fold A Tank • 2 Hard Suction Hoses • Whelen Light and Siren Package • 2” 3/4” Cross Lays
$235k
*Special for the Harrisburg Show Only* Buy one of our stock units during the show and Fouts Bros will donate $1000 to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation in your department name and $1000 to a charity of your choice!
Fouts Bros Fire Equipment 2158 Atlanta Road • Smyrna, GA 30080 Phone: 866-447-7522 • Fax: 770-438-1504
www.foutsfire.com
PAGE 22
June, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
MEMORIAL BOARD If you have photos you would like to see in our Memorial Board feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
DRILLS/TRAINING
To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
TERRY RITZ
Former Fire Policeman on the Seisholtzville Fire Co. in Hereford Twp., Robert G Bookheimer, 76 of Macungie, PA, passed away on April 28, 2019. He was a member and an active fire policeman for years with the fire company. He was also an executive chef for the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He received a Fireman's Funeral and also an Honorable War Veteran's Funeral. Several fire companies from the Upper Perkiomen Valley participated in viewing and service. East Greenville and Boyertown Area Fire and Rescue ladder trucks displayed the arch with the American flag.
Firefighters in Reading practiced mass decontamination during a recent hazardous materials drill. The annual drill is held department-wide to meet training requirements.
JORDAN BANKERT
June, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
PAGE 23
Hoffman Radio Network LLC.
Order 10 or more G-series pagers and get a free 5 year warranty. Valid through 4/30.
Ask us about Unication’s: • G1 Fully Submersible Voice Pager (Low, VHF and UHF Bands) • LegendPlus Alphanumeric Pager • E3 Rugged Alphanumeric Pager
Industries first P25 Voice Pager • Analog 2-Tone Conventional • P25 Trunking • P25 Conventional (VHF & 700-800 & UHF 700-800)
Motorola Minitor VI • 1 or 5 Channel Models • VHF and UHF Bands • IS Model Available
CONTACT US TODAY! 406 W. Main St. New Bloomfield, PA 17068 Phone: 717.275.4783 • Email: Jason@HoffmanRadioNetwork.com New Holland, PA Kirk Neidermyer 717.629.3687
Amsterdam, NY Jim Siudy 518.221.5065
Utica, NY Tom Pavlot Jr. 315.404.1875
Kirk@HoffmanRadioNetwork.com
Jim@HoffmanRadioNetwork.com
Tom@HoffmanRadioNetwork.com
www.HoffmanRadioNetwork.com
PAGE 24
June, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
Fire Rips Through Three Harrison Township Apartments Harrison Twp., PA - At 7:48 A.M. on April 22nd, fire units were dispatched to the Sheldon Park Apartments located along Park Avenue JUMP TO FILE# for a reported apart- 042419100 ment fire. Police arrived on-scene and reported a working fire. Crews arrived to find heavy fire showing from the middle of a four-unit apartment building, with extension into both sides. A second-alarm was immediately requested and crews began a defensive attack. Once the bulk of the fire was knocked down, crews entered the building to battle the fire until it was brought under control in just about one hour. Several residents were home at the time, but all managed to escape without injury. Three out of the four apartments were destroyed by the fire, which did an estimated $500,000 worth of damages. The cause of the fire is under investigation. - ERIC RASMUSSEN
Get your personal copy of
Crews work on overhaul after a fire rips through multiple apartments in Harrison Twp., 4/22/19.
FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
The PA Edition
__ $36 for one year subscription
__ $60 for two year subscription
PAYMENT METHOD
__ Check
__ Money Order __ Charge card
Card # _____________________ Exp:____________
Signature ___________________
Send payment to: 1ST RESPONDER NEWSPAPER 1 ARDMORE STREET NEW WINDSOR, NY 12553
Amount enclosed: ______
For Credit Card Orders: just fax this to (845) 534-0055 or subscribe online at
www.1RBN.com
FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
June, 2019
PAGE 25
PAGE 26
June, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
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.
Fish in Foil; yes it’s exactly what it sounds like... FORK & HOSE CO. a Food Blog by A.J. Fusco
SEAN FESKO/FDNH911
The Philadelphia Fire Department operates this 2012 KME as Engine 5.
“I will have the dry, flavorless fish please,” said no one ever. With high-heat, dry methods such as grilling and sautéing, you run the risk of overcooking your protein, especially delicate fish. Cooking in foil is actually derived from the French technique of cooking called “en papillote”, or as it is known in Italian, “al cartoccio”. Essentially it means food cooked in a parcel or package, traditionally made from parchment paper. To make this a little more “firehouse friendly” we forego the intricate technique of folding parchment and instead use plain ol’ aluminum foil for its ease of sealing. By cooking the ingredi-
ents this way, you are essentially creating a fast cooking, high-heat steam environment, which is perfect for delicate proteins like fish and shrimp. The one downside to this technique is the inability to periodically check on your food to see if it is cooked because of the sealed package, so it may take a few tries for you to figure out this technique. The other plus side of cooking this way is less cleanup, which is perfect for the firehouse. All your ingredients, aside from any accompaniment like rice or potatoes, are cooked in foil which gets tossed at the end of the meal. Your crew will definitely thank you for that! And while this recipe calls for the package being cooked in an oven, you could definitely use the grill instead. Just use indirect heat by lighting half of the grill on high and placing the packages over the “cool” side; this is perfect for the summer. With this technique you have to keep in mind the fast cooking
time, so any aromatics or vegetables you add should be quick cooking or cut small and thin enough so that they will cook in time. With vegetables like carrots, bell peppers and celery, the preferred cut would be a julienne (thin strips) or diced (smaller than chopped). While I like to add a little white wine, you can use just water, citrus juice or even stock. This liquid, while not necessary, will help create a steam environment, along with the steam given off by your other ingredients. Use your imagination when deciding what flavors you are looking for. A simple combination that works well is butter, garlic and lemon, perfect for sole or shrimp. Thin sliced fennel and orange works great with salmon, for a dinner high in Omega-3’s! Either way, the important thing to remember is to have fun and learn from your mistakes, although this one is pretty hard to mess up! Stay safe, eat well!
FISH IN FOIL WITH CHERRY TOMATOES, LEMON AND CAPERS Serves 4
Ingredients:
DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
Lebanon County's Quentin Vol. Fire Co. recently placed this 2018 KME Panther into service as Engine 37. It has a 1250 pump, 1000 water and replaces a 2001 HME/New Lexington engine.
DID Y OU K NOW
?
The phone used to answer the first 911 call in the United States is in a museum in Haleyville, Alabama. A duplicate is still used at the police station there.
4 six-ounce Hake Fillets (Striped Bass, Sole, Trout or any flaky white fish work well) Small package of Cherry Tomatoes 1 Lemon, thin sliced Small Jar of Capers in Brine, drained Handful Fresh Parsley Salt Extra Virgin Olive Oil Splash of White Wine (optional) Aluminum Foil Procedure:
-Preheat oven to 500°F or as high as it will go.
-Tear off 4 pieces of foil, large enough to fit each fillet with plenty of extra room. Season the fillets well with salt and place on the foil. Fold up the sides of the foil so the ingredients stay put. Drizzle the fish with enough olive oil to cover most of the bottom of
the foil. Evenly distribute the lemon slices on top of the fish, followed by the tomatoes, capers and parsley sprigs. Sprinkle with a pinch more of salt and add a splash of white wine if using. Fold the sides of the foil in and seal well. Place on a tray or sheet pan and
put in the oven. Cook for about 8-10 minutes. This will depend on the thickness and type of fish. If you open the packet and it still looks raw, carefully seal back up and cook longer. AJ FUSCO
*This recipe and technique also works well on the grill!
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
June, 2019
PAGE 27
Heavy Fire Does Significant Damage to Home in Whitehall Twp. Whitehall Twp., PA - Whitehall Bureau of Fire was dispatched to a structure fire on April 28th at 9:41 A.M. Initial reports stated that there was heavy smoke com- JUMP TO FILE# ing out of the 050819125 kitchen window. Dispatch returned to say there were now flames showing. With the added information, Chief Nelson (3501) called for a second-alarm. Engine 3912 arrived first with Asst. Chief Justin Benner and a crew of three. They stretched a one-and-three-quarter inch handline into the house, while the driver operator made his water supply connection to the hydrant. AC Benner gave a size up of heavy smoke coming from the 'B' side on division 2 and stated that he would have combative command. 4041 arrived, stretched an additional hose and threw ladders to all sides of the structure. Deputy Chief Francis (Peanuts) Bilder (3503) arrived and took over Dewey St. command. The fire started to come out of the second window and 3503 commanded that no water be flown into the window on 'B2' due to crews operating in the house. 3501 arrived and took over operations. A “C.A.N� report was called for from the interior crews. The transmission back was that they had a lot of heat and smoke and were unable to locate the fire. At that time the fire was coming out of the window and the smoke had some brown color to it, fearing extension into the roof. The interior crew was backed out and told to enter through the ladder at the fire room. Once the crews exited, Lt. Jack Mesce off of 4041 along with his crew opened their line to bring down the heat and flames in a transitional attack. AC Benner and his crew made entry up the ladder and into the fire floor and room, extinguishing the fire and checking for extension. The homeowner had been cooking and left a pot on the stove unattended, causing the fire. The fire had extended into the truss system. The layout of the home was different from most, with the kitchen being on the '2' division. To get to the kitchen, you had to enter the living room and then there was a four-foot opening that was toward the front of the house that led to the kitchen. The heat was not detected with the TIC. The fire was held to a 'room and contents' fire, with a small extension into the roof. Division 2 suffered smoke damage while Division 1 had some water damage. Good job by all who assisted, including Catasauqua FD and Greenwald for RIT, as well as Northampton FD and E. Allen township FD for mutual aid. - DAVID NELSON
SCOTT M. NAGY
SCOTT M. NAGY
PAgE 28
June, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
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.
YOU WON’T RUN OUT OF THINGS TO DO AT .... FIRE EXPO 2010
LANCASTER COUNTY FIREMEN’S ASSOCIATION’S 47 TH ANNUAL
MMP & W Ambulance 9-9 staging at a commercial building fire in Franklin County.
SHANE SHIFFLETT
FIRE EXPO 2019 SHoW HouRS
FRIDAY, MAY 17 – 10 AM - 5 PM SATuRDAY, MAY 18 – 10 AM - 5 PM SuNDAY, MAY 19 – 10 AM - 4 PM
FIRE EXPO 2019
19 , 20 , 19 8 1 7, Y 1 MA
The Gates Will Close One Hour Prior to Closing Time
Holy Spirit EMS operates at a vehicle rollover in Marion (Franklin County).
SHANE SHIFFLETT
ADVANCED TICKETS $9 ARE AVAILABLE THRU MAY 1, 2019 at LCFA.COM OR BY SENDING CHECK OR MONEY ORDER PAYABLE TO FIRE EXPO AND SELF-ADDRESS STAMPED ENVELOPE TO:
FIRE EXPO 2019 630 East Oregon Rd. Lititz, PA 17543
717-581-5469 • Fax: 717-735-7459 Email: expo@LCFA.com Website: Lcfa.com
The Reading FD operates this 2016 Ford AEV TraumaHawk as Medic 1.
JASON BATZ
ADMISSION: Adults $9.00 Children 9 and under FREE
HoSTED BY LANCASTER CouNTY FIREMEN’S ASSoCIATIoN There were 366 Exhibitors Displaying Products in 488 Booth Spaces and exhibiting 217 Emergency Vehicles Last Year To Provide For Your Needs and Services
Attendance in recent years has been over 20,000
FOR LODGING PLEASE CONTACT
CoNNECTIoNS HouSINg
DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
Twin Creeks EMS in the village of Mooresville (Huntingdon County), operates this 2006 Ford F-350/Wheeled Coach as Ambulance 1101.
1-800-262-9974 or www.connectionsmeetings.com/content/1439.htm
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
June, 2019
PAGE 29
PRE-OWNED APPARATUS FOR SALE!
1993 Sutphen 100’ Aerial Platform 1993 Sutphen 100’ 4 Door Cab Aerial Tower, 4 Door Enclosed Cab with 6 Seats, Powered by a Detroit Diesel 450 HP Engine and Allison Automatic Transmission, Hale 1500 GPM Fire Pump, 300 Fiberglass Gallon Booster Tank, 100’ Sutphen Aluminum Aerial Platform with Pre-Piped Waterway, Twin Bucket Nozzles, Aluminum Cab and Body, 6 KW Onan Diesel Generator with Remote Start, Cord Reel, 4 Quartz Lights, 7 Aluminum Ground Ladders
Asking $99,900
Available Immediately!
2017 Freightliner/Pierce Pumper
2017 Freightliner/Pierce 1250/1000 Rural Pumper. 5 person Fully Enclosed High Roof Cab with 4 SCBA Seats, Cummins 360 HP Diesel Allison Automatic Transmission, Aluminum Wheels, Hale 1250 GPM Single Stage Side Mounted Pump with Current Pump Test, Pierce Husky 3 Foam System, Deck Gun with Stacked Tips, 1000 Gallon Poly Tank, Pierce Aluminum Body with Roll-Up Aluminum Compartment Doors, Enclosed Ladder Storage in Rear Body with 2 Aluminum Ground Ladders, Two (2) Telescopic 12 volt LED Scene Lights, Whelen LED Warning Lights, Three (3) Hard Suction Hose Trays in Hose Bed
Asking $310,000.00
See more pictures of these units on our website:
www.sellfiretrucks.com • 866-238-6688 Email: glenn@sellfiretrucks.com
PAGE 30
June, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
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.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
June, 2019
PAGE 31
www.urbanfiretraining.com Book Now for Summer/Fall 2019 Target Hazard Vehicles • First Due Engine Officer Fires in Vacant Buildings • Rapid Transit Emergencies Attic and Cockloft Fires • Basement and Cellar Fires Highrise Fires, Emergencies • Transportation Machinery
Contact us Today for More Info!
#urbanfiretraining Drill Nights urbanfiretraining
@urbanfiretraining
Brian Butler: 609-977-7172 • Email: UrbanFireTraining@Gmail.com
PAGE 32
June, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
Vehicle News
KEN SNYDER
DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
KEN SNYDER
FRANK ROBINSON
The Twin Valley FD in Chester County has acquired this The Carroll Twp. FD of Washington County now runs Carlisle Fire & Rescue Services in Cumberland County 2019 Pierce Arrow XT walk-around rescue, designated this 2017 Ford F-550/Toyne as Squad 63, which replaces recently placed into service a 2018 Pierce Velocity rearRescue 69. a 1990 Chevrolet van. mount tower. It has a 1500 pump, 300 water and 100' tower, and replaces their 1998 E-One Hurricane 1500/280/20 Foam/95' rear-mount tower.
West Whiteland Fire Rescue now operates this 2019 Wiconisco Fire has placed this 2018 Pierce Enforcer Kennett Fire Co. now operates this 2019 Pierce Enforcer Spartan/Smeal 105' Ladder, designated Ladder 6. 2000/500 into service as Rescue Engine 23. 2000/750/30 F. FRANK ROBINSON
BACKSTOP
THE FULL AUTOMATIC REVERSE BRAKING SYSTEM MINIMIZE DAMAGE TO SURROUNDING OBSTACLES BACKSTOP applies the brakes instantly and automatically when a reversing vehicle contacts an obstacle. COST SAVINGS Installing BACKSTOP minimizes damage costs to both the installed vehicle and surrounding obstacles. May reduce insurance premiums. MINIMIZE VEHICLE DAMAGE BACKSTOP projects beyond the rear of the vehicle, minimizing collision damage to doors, lights, and rear steps.
MAXIMUM SAFETY BACKSTOP’s instant and automatic braking system is much faster than a driver’s reaction time. The brakes remain applied until the driver manually releases the brakes by shifting the vehicle out of reverse gear. EASY INSTALLATION The BACKSTOP manual provides installation Instructions for almost any truck or emergency vehicle.
Don’t Back Up Without Backstop Backstop USA
18 Hollywood Blvd. S * Forked River, NJ 08731 Phone: 609-971-2756 * Toll Fre: (Outside NJ) 888-745-2983 * Fax: 609-971-2793 Email: support@backstop-usa.com * Website: wwwkstop-usa.com
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
June, 2019
PAGE 33
PAGE 34
June, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
DEPARTMENT PROFILE
If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Departmnt Profile� feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
The Witmer Fire Protective Association is located in the Village of Witmer in East Lampeter Township, Lancaster County. The fire company was organized by concerned citizens in early 1910 and a few short months later, they purchased their first piece of apparatus, a hand-pulled American LaFrance chemical engine (cart). Today, the company protects the 1.24-square-miles of the Village of Witmer with a population of roughly 600 people, as well as providing mutual aid assistance to East Lampeter Twp. and the surrounding com-
munities, with over 40 active members. The station runs between 200 to 300+ calls annually. Along with support from the community and the township, the department hosts three ox roasts annually, which is a major contributor to their operations. The current firehouse was opened in 1948 and is located at 455 Mt. Sidney Rd. in Witmer. A part of the firehouse was recently renovated and adds interest to the current and future members. Due to the decreasing number of people "dining in" the firehouse, the department opted to take
the large dining area and turn it into a company museum complete with awards, trophies, photographs and their 1967 C Model Mack as the center piece. The department operates a Chief's vehicle, two squads, one engine/tanker and one tanker, and they recently took delivery of a new Pierce engine. (Special thanks to Chief Kauffman, the department website, and members for their assistance with this article.) -DALE FEEHRER
Squad 62-2, 1997 Freightliner/E-One.
Squad 62-1.
Engine 62-2, 2009 Pierce Arrow XT 2000/2500.
DALE FEEHRER
DALE FEEHRER
Engine 62-1, 2019 Pierce Enforcer 1500/500.
Tanker 62, 1994 Peterbuilt/New Lexington 1750/3000.
DALE FEEHRER
DALE FEEHRER
DALE FEEHRER
DALE FEEHRER
Witmer Fire Co. Museum with former Engine 4-10, a 1967 C Model Mack 1000/1000.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
June, 2019
PAGE 35
PAGE 36
June, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
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.
ACTION SHOT If you have photos you would like to see in our “Action Shot” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
KEN SNYDER
Shenandoah's ladder operated at a third-alarm in Ashland on March 24th.
A crew from the Elizabethtown FD stages while utility crews from the gas company try to contain an active gas leak inside a home, 2/11/19. As a precaution, this crew and two others later evacuated citizens from nearby homes. The gas was shut off to the home a short time later.
DALE FEEHRER
Enjoy taking photographs? FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
Monroeville Tanker 5, a 2017 E-One Cyclone 2X 3000-gallon tanker, stands by at the scene of a working structure fire in the City of Duquesne.
Get the most out of your hobby! 1st Responder News compensates correspondents for their article & photograph submissions.
Palmer Twp.'s ladder in service at a mutual aid townhouse fire in Bath, 1/1/19.
KEN SNYDER
Contact Lindsey TODAY for more information! Lindsey@1strespondernews.com
845-534-7500 ext. 212
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
June, 2019
PAGE 37
PAGE 38
June, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
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
KEN SNYDER
JASON BATZ
The Kinzer Fire Company operates this 2018 Pierce En- The Bellegrove Fire Co. in North Annville Twp. operates The Brunnerville Fire Co. in Lancaster County operates forcer 1500/3000 Pumper/Tanker as Tanker 45. this 2018 Western Star/Alexis 1000/3000 tanker. this Pierce Quantum Pumper, shown here at a live-drill in Berks County.
The East Whiteland Fire Co. operates this 2014 Spar- Engine 2611 of the Tri-Clover VFD in Orefield is a 2016 The Gap Fire Company operates this 2018 E-One KME 2000/1000. tan/Marion (2000/750/Hurst) custom engine as E 5-1. 1750/750 as Engine 421. DALE FEEHRER
KEN SNYDER
FRANK ROBINSON
KEN SNYDER
DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
DALE FEEHRER
KEN SNYDER
DALE FEEHRER
KEN SNYDER
Northampton Engine 4211 is a Pierce Enforcer Citizens Hose Co. #5 operates this 2017 Ford F- Liberty #3 of Lebanon operates this KME Predator Pan1500/750/40. 550/Reading/Sabre as Utility 6 for Clinton County's Lock ther engine (1500/500) as Engine 19. Haven FD.
The Shiloh Fire Co. uses this 2011 Ferrara 2000'300/100'. The Rheems FD operates this 2009 KME Predator Upper Macugie Twp. runs this 2014 Chevy as Utility (1500/750/20F/Holmatro) as Engine 702. 5691.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
June, 2019
PAGE 39
PAGE 40
June, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
LITTLE BIG GUYS
If you have photos you would like to see in our Little Big Guys feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
The Walnut Bottom Fire Co. in Cumberland County once ran this retired ex-military truck as Brush 249. An interesting mural can be seen at the rear of the truck.
DRILLS/TRAINING
To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
JASON BATZ
Lancaster County firefighters from the Brunnerville Fire Co. recently conducted a live-fire drill at the Berks County Fire Training Center. Several evolutions were completed using commercial building simulations.
KEN SNYDER
KEN SNYDER
Read more stories on our website! www.1rbn.com
Servingg those who seerve us. HeroesMortgagePrograam.com
8777-541-HERO
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
June, 2019
PAGE 41
PAGE 42
June, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
FIRE EQUIPMENT
If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Fire Equipment” feature please upload them on our website www.1RBN.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
MEMORIAL BOARD If you have photos you would like to see in our Memorial Board feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
SHANE SHIFFLETT
This teal plug is one of the older hydrants located in Franklin County.
McKees Rocks, PA - On April 22nd, Richard “Rich” Albert, Assistant Fire Chief with the McKees Rocks Volunteer Fire Department, lost his courageous three-year battle with cancer at the age of 54. Assistant Chief Albert served with the McKees Rocks Fire Department for over 35 years, serving as Assistant Chief for over 15 years. A final call and service was held on April 30th, where he was laid to rest at St. Marks Cemetery. He will truly be missed by many in the fire service, his friends and his family.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
June, 2019
PAGE 43
SEE US AT THE HARRISBURG FIRE EXPO! Harrisburg Booth #950 & 951
PAGE 44
June, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
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,
FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
Duquesne Chief Frank Cobb directs his men at a commerical structure fire in Munhall.
DANIEL WADE
Reading Paramedic Rob Schaeffer gets comfortable with a rappel rack during a confined space drill.
JASON BATZ
Cumru Twp. Firefighters Jon Fritz and Butch Klein review equipment on a new tanker the department recently took delivery of.
JASON BATZ
FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
Fire Department of North Versailles 213 Chief Ron Yule, Jr. at a house fire in North Versailles.
Reading Firefighter Tim Coleman pauses during driver training on Ladder 3.
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.
June, 2019
PAGE 45
ACTION SHOT If you have photos you would like to see in our “Action Shot” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
JASON BATZ
EUGENE WEBER JR.
This patch belongs to Fairview Fire-Rescue, located in Allegheny County, PA.
Reading Firefighters responded to the 600 block of North 13th Street for this multi-vehicle accident on April 7th. Several occupants were injured and required treatment.
PAGE 46
June, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
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.
FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
West Wilmerding 211 Chief Bud Pusey in command at a house fire in North Versailles.
BRAD SHANAMAN
Reading FF Patrick Griffin shows off some firefighting equipment after a group of children stopped by the firehouse.
JC KRIESHER
Englewood FF Scott Taylor carries a hose line away from a building during a major fire in Ashland.
JASON BATZ
FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
Members of Duquense Annex Station 294 stand-by at the scene of commercial structure fire in Munhall.
Reading FF Steven Turner poses for a photo during a live-fire drill at the Reading Fire Academy.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
PAGE 47
June, 2019
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.
Car ends up 200-feet down a hillside in Shaler Twp.
KEN SNYDER
Ashland Ladder 38 operates in front of a multi-building fire on March 24th.
FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
78-Year-Old Driver Plunges 200-Feet into Shaler Twp. Park Shaler Twp., PA - Just before 3:00 P.M. on Wednesday, April 24th, EMS and rescue units were dispatched to the 600 block of Stoneridge Drive in Shaler Township for a vehicle over a hillside. Crews arrived to find a vehicle approximately 200-feet over the hill side, with one occupant still inside. Due to the terrain, additional rescue units were requested. EMS
JUMP TO FILE #042519100 and rescue crews were able to gain access to the vehicle, as it came to rest just off a walking trail in Fall Run Park. Crews helped the 78-yearold driver out of the vehicle and placed her in a stokes basket. Crews then carried the patient about a quar-
ter of a mile to awaiting EMS units. The woman was transported to the hospital with minor injuries. She had been attempting to back the vehicle down a driveway into a garage when she accidentally backed through a line of bushes and then traveled backward over the hill into the park. - ERIC RASMUSSEN
JC KRIESHER
Shenandoah Engine 64-10 (Columbia) responded to Ashland on a third-alarm for a major fire that destroyed six homes back in February.
Crews carry the woman to awaiting EMS units.
DALE FEEHRER
Hershey Engine 48, a 2011 Pierce Arrow XT (2000/750/25A/20B/CAFS), is seen here flowing one line at a recent kitchen fire.
Valtek, the FiretruckShop.com, provides the highest quality painting and collision work for fire equipment in the NJ/NY metropolitan area. We also have the spray booth, safety equipment and permits you expect. Work is done quickly for a fair price by people that know fire trucks. Nearby at Exit 60 off Route 80. Come see for yourself why over 282 departments have chosen Valtek for their painting and collision needs.
FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
Valtek™ is the first Axalta Certified Commercial Refinisher in the area.
Restored by
FiretruckShop.com • (9 73) 27 8-14 44
PAGE 48
June, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
Insanity Defined Chaplain's Corner Didymus McHugh
There are different definitions of insanity. Webster’s describes it as “a severely disordered state of the mind usually occurring as a specific disorder”, or for legal “unsoundness of mind or lack of the ability to understand that prevents one from having the mental capacity required by law to enter into a particular relationship, status, or transaction or that releases one from criminal or civil responsibility”. There are people who define insanity as doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. That quote has been credited to so many different people I will not even try to give the credit. The version that I think we have heard when we joined the fire service is that insanity is being a firefighter. When there is a burning building and all the rats and roaches are running out, we are the ones running in. And we do that willingly. We have many self-destructive tendencies, according to the public. We willingly put ourselves into situations that people do not want to see, or acknowledge that they even exist. We have seen people who did not survive fires, all ages. We have seen people mangled up in car wrecks. We have responded to calls with our Brothers and Sisters as the victims. We have responded to calls at our loved one’s houses. And we do this because we have the skill set that is required. We have said “hello” to emergency services and “Goodbye” to the age of innocence. We at times take on so much that it affects us. Maybe not at the scene, or the next one, or the next, but we forget that stress affects us cumulatively. How many of us may have the whiff of a smell that brings us to a bad call? You know the smell that brings you back. Do you avoid certain parts of town or certain holiday celebrations? I recall on Christmas morning, when I first joined, we had a house fire at about 0800 hours and the house was fully engulfed. We found out after the fire that
the homeowner perished within three-feet of the door. We need to find ways to correctly process these thoughts and memories. I have recently spoken with someone who found a member of his station dead in their station, apparently by his own hands. The person who told me this still told it with tears in his eyes, but he was able to deal with it. When a life is taken, so much is lost, so much knowledge, humor, love. If we look at it from one side, the person has spent so much time in training and has so much experience that it would be a shame to lose all of that. But the human side of me says, that was someone with a family, mom, dad, brother, uncle, aunt, sister, son, daughter, instructor, mentor, friend, Brother, Sister, someone that we may have answered many calls with. What is that person worth to you? Would you be willing to open up your mouth to help them? Are you willing to ask them what is wrong, when they do not look or act right? I had a friend who died a while back. He always taught that the human needs a certain amount of hugs a day to thrive. I forgot what the number was. Does it really matter? We all need human contact, a sign of affection. Are you willing to let someone cry on your shoulders? Do you have someone that is close enough that if you need to cry, that you can cry on their shoulders? Don’t worry, you do not have to do it in front of a crowd, if you are not comfortable. I had someone tell me that their father said that real men don’t cry and that he was never allowed to talk about the problem. Wow, the father basically cursed the son for thirty years. I gave him the safe zone to talk about it. He cried on my shoulders, first time in thirty years. Do you how much that helped and started him in his healing process. It is okay to hang up your Superman cape, once in a while, so that you take care of yourself. Maybe you need to talk with a peer, a chaplain, a crisis team member, a crisis line, or a psychologist or social worker. It’s okay. Your family will thank you. You will thank you. Please take care of it instead of picking up the bottle or something worse. Please stay safe, Didymus McHugh Didymus-mchugh.com
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
Ashland E 38-10 on scene in the rear of the borough's third-alarm multi-building fire on March 24th.
FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
Lincoln Borough Fire & Rescue Station 184 Tankers 1 & 2 stand by at the scene of a structure fire in the City of Duquesne. Tanker 1 is a 2006 Kenworth/Four Guys 3000-gallon tanker and Tanker 2 is a 2015 Freightliner/Four Guys/Flashover Fire 2100-gallon tanker.
Join the Heroes Team! Becoming part of the Heroes team KDV LWV EHQH¿WV &RQWDFW XV WR OHDUQ PRUH DERXW EHFRPLQJ D +HURHV &HUWL¿HG DJHQW
MASON-DIXON FIRE PHOTOGRAPHY
info@HeroesRealty.com
HeroesMortgageProgram.com
877-541-HERO
Citizens Vol. Fire Co. Tanker 56 (left) and Engine 56-3 (right) were the first two pieces on the scene of an apartment fire, 4/1/19. Darlington Air 961 (far left) filled air bottles on the scene.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
June, 2019
PAGE 49
Easter Morning Fire Damages Two North Versailles Homes North Versailles, PA – At 6:34 A.M. on Easter Sunday, April 21st, fire units were dispatched to the 500 block of 1st Street in North Versailles for a reported house fire. Shortly after dispatch, units were JUMP TO FILE# advised that EMS 042219100 reported smoke showing from their EMS base, and a second caller was reporting fire throughout the house. Dispatch then updated incoming units that police were on-scene with a working fire. 211 Chief arrived on-scene and assumed command, reporting a fully involved two-and-a-half story, wood-frame home with an exposure on the right side. Command also reported that they had two lines working and in a defensive attack. Arriving crews attempted to establish a water supply, but found the hydrant to be bad. Command then reported that they had lost the entire back of the original home, and the exposure home was not involved. Step guns were put into place to knock down the fire from a defensive position on the exposure home until a water supply was established. Once a water supply was established, crews made entry into the exposure home and found fire on the second division and attic area, and started to attack the fire. Crews began to lose pressure from the water supply they had established, so Monroeville Tanker 5 was requested to the scene along with a second tanker from Westmoreland County that was placed on stand-by in case crews lost their water supply. Thirty minutes into the incident command reported the bulk of the fire knocked down in the original fire building, and progress was being made with knocking down the fire in the exposure home. Additional units were dispatched for manpower before the fire was finally brought under control. No one was home in the original house at the time of the fire. The residents had just moved into the home several days earlier. Four people were in the exposure home at the time of the fire, but all made it out safely. Both families are being assisted by the American Red Cross. The home in which the fire started was demolished later in the day. The Allegheny County Fire Marshal is investigating.
One house was destroyed and another was badly damaged by a fire on Easter Sunday in North Versailles.
FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
- ERIC RASMUSSEN
FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY
PAGE 50
June, 2019
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.
DALE FEEHRER
This privately owned 1969 Ward LaFrance engine (1000/1000) that closely resembles Engine 51 from Emergency began it's career in Goldsboro, PA. After a long service in Goldsboro, it was donated to the York County training facility before being purchased by a collector. Special thanks to Mr. Yealy for the assistance and info.
DALE FEEHRER
The Heidlersburg Fire Co. operates this 1993 KME engine (1500/1000/25BF) as Engine 25-1, which formally operated with the Penn Twp. Fire Co. in York County, PA.
GEOFFREY WETHERHOLD
The Steelton FD operates this Mack CF that previously saw service in FDNY. Engine 50 is a 1979 Mack CF that was refurbished by ITE in 1997 and is equipped with a 1000-GPM pump and 500-gallon tank.
DENNIS WETHERHOLD JR.
The Slatington FD placed this KME pumper into service that formerly served the George Clay Fire Co. in West Conshocken, PA. Engine 2412 is a 2001 KME equipped with 1750-GPM pump and 750 tank.
CHUCK LOWE
Stroudsburg ran this 1983 Pirsch 100' Aerial, designated as Chemical Ladder 38-63, for three decades. It was replaced by another tiller built by Pierce. Peter Pirsch and Sons produced their last piece of fire apparatus in 1987. This truck is currently owned by a collector in Stow, MA and can be found at some of the parades in that area.
FRANK ROBINSON
Lampeter Fire Company No. 1 operates this 2008 Spartan/Crimson 1500/500 that once saw service in Liverpool, NY.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
June, 2019
PAGE 51
House Fire Quickly Contained by Firefighters in Chambersburg Chambersburg, PA - On the morning of March 28th, Franklin County 911 received a call from a subject reporting smoke coming from a house at 422 Center St. in Chambersburg. Crews from the Chambersburg FD JUMP TO FILE# were alerted with 041919133 several surrounding departments due on Box 1-01 at 10:05 A.M. Chief Dustin Ulrich marked up directly after dispatch and was advised that they had a call reporting smoke and flames visible. Within minutes, Chief Ulrich arrived to find fire showing from Division II of the two-and-a-half story duplex and placed Command 1 into effect, requesting the Working Fire dispatch. Chambersburg Engine 1-1 arrived and crews prepared to make entry to begin an offensive attack. Chief Ulrich reported fire showing from the 'Bravo' and 'Charlie' sectors of Division II. Firefighters quickly advanced an attack line to Division II as an additional crew made entry and searched the structure for victims. Crews conducted an aggressive attack and had a bulk of the fire knocked within 10 minutes as other firefighters conducted the search of the building, which came up negative. Chief Ulrich reported the fire as knocked down around 10:30 A.M. and began releasing units. Firefighters were committed on the scene for less than two hours conducting operations. Their quick actions and aggressive efforts were able to quickly bring the blaze under control, keeping a large amount of the damage contained to just one side of the duplex. The other side of the duplex suffered minor smoke and water damage, but no fire damage. The cause is currently unknown and under investigation by the PA State Police Fire Marshal’s Office. No occupants of either side of the duplex were home at the time of the blaze. One family pet was rescued during the incident, but no injuries were reported. Firefighters from the Chambersburg FD responded to the call, receiving assistance from Franklin Fire Co. (Station 4), New Franklin FD (Co.17), Letterkenny Army Depot FD (Co.13), Fayetteville V.F.D. (Co.7), Holy Spirit EMS (Co.100), Marion V.F.C. (Co.8), West End Fire & Rescue (Co.15), Pleasant Hall V.F.C. (Co.11), St. Thomas Fire & Rescue (Co.18), and Cumberland County’s Cumberland Valley Hose Air Unit (Co.53). Chambersburg also received assistance from Mont Alto FD (Co.5), along with Cumberland County crews from Vigilant Hose Fire Co. (Co.52) and Cumberland Hose Co. (Co.53), who transferred into headquarters and covered the Borough while crews were committed on the scene. - WILLIAM KING
Chief Ulrich arrives to find smoke and fire showing on Center St. in Chambersburg.
FRANKLIN FIRE CO. STATION 4
DENNY CLOPPER
PAGE 52
June, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
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
Buchanan Valley Volunteer Fire Department Station 27 is located in Adams County, PA.
Adams County Station 27.
TIMOTHY COOVER
Engine/Tanker 27 and Rescue/Engine 27.
TIMOTHY COOVER
TIMOTHY COOVER
Brush 27 is a 2010 Ford F-450 Firematic Brat 4x4 with 250-gallon water tank, 10-gallon foam cell, assortment of brush and mountain fire equipment & water rescue gear.
Engine/Tanker 27 is a 2008 Pierce Arrow Xt with 6-man cab, 2000-GPM/2000-GWT, 2000-gallon port-a-pond, 1300-ft. of 5-inch supply line, 8 pre-connected hand lines & complete set of Holmatro tools.
TIMOTHY COOVER
TIMOTHY COOVER
Rescue Engine 27 is a 2017 Pierce Arrow Xt with 7-man cab, 2000-GPM/1500-GWT, 1200-ft. of 5-inch supply line & complete set of Holmatro tools.
TIMOTHY COOVER
Special unit 27 is a 2013 Ford F-450 4x4 with EMS equipment & light vehicle rescue equipment.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
June, 2019
PAGE 53
PAGE 54
June, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
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.
The Perseverance #1 of Lebanon operates this 2015 E- Engine 2511 of the Good Will Fire Co. in Trexlertown is The Middletown VFD operates this 2001 KME pumper One (1500/708) Typhoon, designated as Engine 17. a 2018 Freightliner/Smeal 1500/750/40. (2000/500/20AF) as Dauphin County Engine 88. DALE FEEHRER
KEN SNYDER
DALE FEEHRER
Utility 502 of the West Manchester Twp. FD is a 2003 The Rescue Hose Co. #4 of Lebanon operates this 2004 RE 2241 of the Community F Co. No.1 in Schnecksville ALF/LTI 100' truck, designated as Truck 20. Dodge Ram pick-up. is a 2018 Spartan/Smeal 1500/500. KEN SNYDER
DALE FEEHRER
KEN SNYDER
KEN SNYDER
DALE FEEHRER
DALE FEEHRER
DALE FEEHRER
KEN SNYDER
DALE FEEHRER
Ladder 15 of the Horsham Fire Company is a 2018 The Hand-In-Hand Fire Company operates this 2014 The Paradise-Leaman Place Fire Co. operates this 2004 Pierce Velocity 1500/500/107'. Spartan/Crimson rescue engine (1500/1150/Amkus) HolPierce Velocity tanker (2000/4000) as Tanker 41. matro (portable) as Rescue 47.
The Robert Fulton Fire Co. has recently placed this 1993 Ruscombmanor Twp. in Berks County uses this 2018 The Bainbridge Fire Co. operates Pierce Lance/(2008 Refurb) (1250/1250) engine into Rosenbauer Commander heavy rescue, designated as Peterbuilt/New Lexington (1750/3000), service as Engine 89-3. This piece was acquired from Rescue 34. Tanker 71. nearby Oxford, PA.
this 2001 designated
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
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.
Reading Firefighters Justin Auker and Jim Deck pose during a natural gas incident on North 11th Street.
JASON BATZ
READINGPAFIRE.COM
Reading Firefighters Steve Ginder and Jeff Schrack pose at Berks Fire and Water after picking up a load of bottled water for on-duty crews. Steve was recently promoted to Acting Lieutenant after the transfer of Lt. Dave Williams to the training academy.
June, 2019
PAGE 55
PAGE 56
June, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
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
DRILLS/TRAINING
To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
The Shippensburg West End Fire Co. still runs this 1999 E-One Heavy Rescue as Squad 15.
FRANK ROBINSON
JASON BATZ
Firefighters from Cumru Twp. practice with portable ladders at the Berks County Fire Training Center. Crews were required to hit different ladder targets on the building to hone their skills. Greenfields Fire Co. E 55-1 is a 1999 Pierce 1750/1000.
KEN SNYDER
DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
The Reinholds Fire Co. still operates this 1991 Chevrolet/Utilitmaster as Air 1 for the northeast area of Lancaster County.
The Colonial Park Fire Co. still runs this 1997 Spartan/LTI 1750/400/75' Quint as Ladder 33. FRANK ROBINSON
Bob Long
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
June, 2019
PAGE 57
PAGE 58
June, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
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
RAINMAN14
KEN SNYDER
The Duty Officer of the Hanover Twp. FD in Luzerne County uses this Ford as a command vehicle.
Fire Destroys Vehicle in Reading
Reading, PA - At 4:41 P.M. on May 7th, West Reading Fire Department was dispatched to the Buttonwood Street bridge for a vehicle fire, reported to be a four-wheeler. Shortly after Engine 64 went en route, Reading police arrived and reported the fire to be on the Reading City side of the bridge. Reading Fire Department Ladder 1 was dispatched, along with Engine 3. Engine 64 arrived to find a working fire and crews stretched a bumper line. Engine 3 confirmed that there was a small vehicle fully involved over a storm drain. Reading police controlled traffic as Engine 64 extinguished the fire, which was placed under control at 4:56 P.M. City trucks went available a short time later. Engine 64 cleared the scene at 5:01 P.M., at which time was turned over to Reading Police.
ANTIQUE APPARATUS
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.
FRANK ROBINSON
West Hempfield Fire Company runs this 2016 Ford F150 Chiefs Vehicle.
KEN SNYDER
KEN SNYDER
The Towamencin VFCo. uses this Chevy for Command 76.
Newville, PA - All cranked up and ready to parade, that's how this rehabbed 1916 American LaFrance was ready to perform last October. After the parade was over, the restored chain drive triple combination 250-400 pumper was dedicated and put on public display at the firehouse. As you entered the town, signs were posted announcing the celebration.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
June, 2019
PAGE 59
PAGE 60
June, 2019
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.
CHUCK LOWE
A 1961 American LaFrance 900-Series pumper that once served the Middletown Fire Co. of Media now belongs to the East Lake FD in Pinellas County, Florida. ELFD continues to maintain and operate the open cab classic for public relations events, including their annual "Santa Run".
DALE FEEHRER
The Citizens VFC of Fawn Grove operates this 2001 Pierce Quantum (2000/1000) rescue-engine that previously served in Boring, MD.
DALE FEEHRER
This 1979/1995 CF Mack/SWAB (1000/1000) engine formally served the Citizens Fire Co. in Palmyra, PA as Wagon 1. This piece is now retired and currently resides not too far away from where it served.
DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
McAlevy's Fort in Huntingdon County is home of the Stone Creek Valley Vol. Fire Co. They run Tanker 19, a 1998 International 4900/4 Guys 500/2000, which previously saw service with the nearby Mill Creek Fire Co.
DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
The Shavers Creek Valley Community Fire Co. in Huntingdon County runs this 1986 Pierce Arrow, with a 1992 Interstate 4-door/refurb/2000-GPM pump/1000 water, as Rescue Engine 11. This rig started life with Everett in Bedford County before it was sold to Oneida Twp., which merged into Huntingdon Regional Fire & Rescue. The unit was sold to Shavers Creek after the merger.
DALE FEEHRER
West Hempfield Fire-Rescue has placed this 2007 Ford F-550/Rescue 1 into service as Traffic 76. This piece formally served as a rescue in Fryeburg, ME.
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
June, 2019
PAGE 61
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.
KEN SNYDER
Reinholds Fire Company operates this 2004 Ford F350/East Penn 285/200 Brush Truck, designated as Brush 1-8.
FRANK ROBINSON
West Whiteland Fire operates this 2001 Ford F350/Reading 175/300 Brush Truck, designated as Brush 6.
DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
Huntingdon County's Brush 2 of the Mapleton Fire Co. is this 1986 Chevrolet 175/210, acquired through DCNR.
FRANK ROBINSON
DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY
The Jefferson VFC of Codorus uses this Ford 450 as Service 47.
Witmer Fire Protective Association operates this 2016 Dodge Ram Squad Unit, designated as Squad 62-1.
FRANK ROBINSON
The Blain Vol. Fire Co. of Perry County operates this 2014 Dodge Ram 5500/KME as Brush 1. It has a 200 pump, 300 water and many tools for forest and ground cover fires.
PAGE 62
June, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
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
Fayetteville Volunteer Fire Department Station 7 is located in Franklin County, PA.
Fayetteville Vol. FD Station 7.
TIMOTHY COOVER
Squad 7 is a 2010 Seagrave.
TIMOTHY COOVER
Engine 7-1 is a 2002 Pierce Dash.
TIMOTHY COOVER
Utility 7 is a 2013 Dodge Ram.
TIMOTHY COOVER
Too long between issues of 1st Responder News? Get news updates everyday online at www.1rbn.com Engine 7-2 is a 1995 Pierce Dash.
TIMOTHY COOVER
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA
Visit us in the North West Hall
June, 2019
PAGE 63
PAGE 64
June, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - PA