1st Responder News PA May Edition

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FLASHOVER LEADS TO MAYDAY CALL AT MILLVALE HOUSE FIRE

FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY

MILLVALE, PA - Around 4:00 P.M. on March 29th, Millvale 191 Chief contacted Allegheny County 911 to dispatch his first-alarm assignment for a working fire located along William Street. Several departments arrived quickly and found the fire on the porch quickly extending into the second floor of the home.

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May, 2021

ADVERTISER INDEX A guide to finding great companies

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1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

Skirball Fire

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3,12

VIDEO REVIEW Video reviews by John Malecky

Backstop USA

Campbell Supply.

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Command Fire App.

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ESI

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Skirball Fire December, 2017

By Firestorm HD Productions Available from: FSP Books & Videos 433 Main Street Hudson, MA 01749 1-800-522-8528 e-mail: support@fire-policeems.com www.fire-police-ems.com Price: $12.95 (DVD) This DVD is approximately 31 minutes in length. It involves a wildland fire in the Bel Air neighborhood of Los Angeles City that destroyed six houses, damaged 12 others and destroyed 422 acres on

the slopes of the Sepulveda Pass. It was one of many wildland fires in Southern California during the month of December.

It involves much activity of both fixed wing and rotary aircraft from a number of agencies, dropping water and chemical to combat these fires. Engine companies are seen stretching hoselines and advancing streams at brush and into houses that have been evacuated and are being destroyed. Many nice houses and other property, such as automobiles, fell victim to this horrible and fast-moving fire propelled by the Santa Ana winds.

In one instance a deck gun is deployed from an elevated position down onto brush that is actively burning. Thankfully, some of these areas had hydrants or the deck gun operation would not have been possible. It is not a long DVD, but it's packed full of heavy engagement of firefighting forces.

FDIC

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Fire Flow Services, Inc.

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PATCH OF THE MONTH

Fire Line Equipment

17

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.

Fire Rescue EMS Expo

23

Mid Atlantic Rescue

11

KEN SNYDER

Commercial Structure Fire in Pottsville POTTSVILLE, PA - On April 14th at 6:28 A.M., the fire department was called to 444 Claude A. Lord Blvd. for a building fire. Incoming companies were met with a heavy grey smoke condition spreading throughout the two-story building. The structure housed five businesses and several apartments, of which two apartment dwellers were displaced. Rt. 61 (Claude A. Lord Blvd.), a busy four lane highway, had to be shut down due to an LDH supply line coming up from a hydrant on a street below the highway. The fire was difficult to control and locate, as the building had a lot of open spaces between the walls, ceilings and floors. Numerous mutual aid companies assisted the PFD at the scene, plus stand by units were at the PFD and mutual aid stations. The fire was placed under control at 8:33 A.M.

Two Bros. Auto Transport 8,9

CORPORATE INFORMATION 1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - Pennsylvania edition - Vol. 25 No. 5 - 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.

FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY

Bed Fire Spreads to Apartment in Plum

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LUKE SANDERSON

The patch belongs to the William Cameron Engine Co., located in Lewisburg (Union County), PA. The department is made up of both career and volunteer firefighters.

PLUM BOROUGH, PA – At 12:40 A.M. on March 27th, fire crews were dispatched to Shangri La Circle for a reported bed on fire inside a bedroom. The first arriving unit found smoke showing from an apartment style building. Upon further size-up, command reported fire from the 'Charlie' side of the building as arriving crews made entry to attack the fire. The bulk of the fire was quickly knocked, but crews found some minor extension into neighboring apartments.

Crews continued to work on overhaul and ventilation as the fire was placed under control at 1:30 A.M. No one was injured and the fire is under investigation.

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

May, 2021

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May, 2021

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.

DALE FEEHRER

The Kennett Fire Co. operates this 1988 Ford F-350 brush unit equipped with a 250-gallon water tank.

A firefighter bails from the window after calling MAYDAY.

FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY

Flashover Leads to MAYDAY Call at Millvale House Fire ALAN HOFFMAN

Unit 32-52 (Fire Police Unit) of the Woodlawn Fire Company is a 2004 Ford F550/Rescue 1.

MILLVALE, PA – Around 4:00 P.M. on March 29th, Millvale 191 Chief contacted Allegheny County 911 to dispatch his first-alarm assignment for a working fire located along William Street.

Several departments arrived quickly and found the fire on the porch quickly extending into the second floor of the home. Crews made an initial attack and found heavy fire on the second floor already.

Shortly into the initial attack conditions rapidly changed, leading to a flashover. Several MAYDAY calls were transmitted from the firefighters trapped in the flashover. A second-alarm was im-

JUMP TO FILE #033121121

mediately requested and Rapid Intervention Teams were about to make entry, but thankfully, all firefighters managed to escape prior to rapid intervention teams being deployed.

Several firefighters were able to escape down the steps while one firefighter escaped through a second-floor window onto a porch roof. After the MAYDAY call was cleared, all units were evacuated from the home until conditions improved. Crews were then able to reenter the home and knock down the

bulk of the fire. Fire crews remained on-scene for several hours for overhaul.

A Millvale police officer who arrived on-scene at around the same time as 191 Chief assisted the homeowner and two children out of the home unharmed. One firefighter who was trapped by the flashover sustained an ankle injury; a second firefighter was transported to the hospital with minor burns.

Both are expected to make a full recovery.

The Allegheny County Fire Marshal’s office is now investigating.

- ERIC RASMUSSEN

ALAN HOFFMAN

Brush 1341 with the Nesquehoning Hose Company #1 is a 2018 Ford F350/Reading Body with a 250-GPM pump and 225-gallon tank.

DALE FEEHRER

Buchanan Valley operates this 2010 Ford F-450/Firematic/BRAT brush unit equipped with a 250-gallon water tank, 10-gallon Foam Cell, and 60 CFM CAFS Pump. This piece is designated as Brush 27.

FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY

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May, 2021

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Oklahoma: Andrew "Andy" P. Davis, 45 Rank: Major Incident Date: December 9, 2020 Death Date: December 24, 2020 Fire Department: Oklahoma City Fire Department Initial Summary: On December 9, 2020, Major Andrew “Andy” P. Davis contracted COVID-19 while providing emergency medical care to a patient who had tested positive for the virus. Major Davis passed away on Thursday, December 24, 2020.

West Virginia: Logan Young, 30 Rank: Senior Airman/Firefighter Incident Date: December 27, 2020 Death Date: December 27, 2020 Fire Department: 167th Air Lift Wing of the West Virginia Air National Guard Fire Department Initial Summary: On Sunday, December 27, 2020, at approximately 0200hrs, Senior Airman/Firefighter Logan Young, responded to a mutual aid call, to a barn fire in Kearneysville, West Virginia. Senior Airman/Firefighter Young was killed while battling the blaze when a beam fell on him. The cause of the fire has been determined as arson and is under investigation.

Pennsylvania: Stephen Sunday, 28 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: December 20, 2020 Death Date: December 29, 2020 Fire Department: City of Scranton Bureau of Fire Initial Summary: Firefighter Stephen Sunday contracted COVID-19 while on-duty. He passed away from the virus on December 29, 2020.

Maryland: Bryan "Hammy" P. Hamilton, 42 Rank: Firefighter/EMT Incident Date: December 14, 2020 Death Date: January 1, 2021 Fire Department: Naval District of Washington Fire and Emergency Services Initial Summary: Firefighter/EMT Bryan “Hammy” P. Hamilton contracted COVID-19 while on-duty. On Friday, January 1, 2021, he passed away at the University of Maryland, Charles Regional Medical Center in La Plata, Maryland, from complications of the virus.

California: George A. Roque, 57 Rank: Captain Incident Date: December 2, 2020 Death Date: January 1, 2021 Fire Department: Los Angeles City Fire Department Initial Summary: Captain George A. Roque contracted COVID-19 while on-duty from a patient with a known case of the virus.

North Carolina: Darrell Woodard, 66 Rank: Chief Incident Date: December 3, 2020 Death Date: December 29, 2020 Fire Department: Savannah Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: On Thursday, December 3, 2020, Chief Darrell Woodard responded to a call for a smell of smoke in a building. All four firefighters, including Chief Woodard, that responded to this incident, tested positive for COVID-19. Chief Woodard passed away from the virus on Tuesday, December 29, 2020.

Michigan: Roland Brooks, 82 Rank: Chief Incident Date: November 28, 2020 Death Date: December 20, 2020 Fire Department: Grant Township Fire Department Initial Summary: Chief Roland Brooks contracted COVID-19 while on-duty. He was admitted to the hospital on Saturday, December 5, 2020 and passed away on Sunday, December 20, 2020.

Tennessee: John Howell Clift, 64 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: November 21, 2020 Death Date: January 2, 2021 Fire Department: Rural Metro Fire Department Initial Summary: Firefighter John Howell Clift contracted COVID-19 while on-duty. He was hospitalized in early December and passed away on Saturday, January 2, 2021.

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

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

TERRY RITZ

DALE FEEHRER

The Rose Fire Co. of New Freedom still operates this 1995 KME (1500/1000) as Engine 58-2.

Read more news on our website! www.1rbn.com

Building Fire at BHL Company in Upper Hanover Twp. UPPER HANOVER TWP., PA - On Sunday, April 4th at 10:20 A.M., the East Greenville Fire Co. was dispatched to a building fire inside BHL trucking company on Gravel Pile in the township. The original call was for an appliance fire inside the building, but the call was upgraded on arrival.

The report was called into Montgomery County Dispatch by

JUMP TO FILE #040521109

one of the fire company's engineers who lives a few houses up from the location. Upon arrival, first responders had a smoke condition both in and outside the building. After entering the building they found a heater that was on fire due to a mal-

function. Fire extinguishers were used to bring it under control. There were no injuries.

Responding along with East Greenville were fire companies from Pennsburg, Hereford Twp. and Eastern Berks, as well as fire police from Pennsburg, Hereford and Red Hill.

- TERRY RITZ

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May, 2021

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

The Intercourse Fire Company has acquired this 2012 Pierce Arrow XT pumper (1500/750), which will be designated as Engine 44-2.

This piece formally served in Arlington County, VA.

DALE FEEHRER

The Monessen FD formally operated this 1989 Seagrave pumper (2000/750) as Engine 1. Today, the piece is privately owned in South Central PA.

FRANK ROBINSON

Donaldson Fire Company now operates a 2006 KME 1750/500/30F. The unit once served the Port Washington, NY (Long Island) FD.

MASON-DIXON FIRE PHOTOGRAPHY

East Prospect Fire Company No. 1's Truck 42 has a 1500-GPM pump, 300-gallon water tank, carries 25-gallons of foam, and has a 100-foot rear-mounted platform. "The Super Truck" once saw service on Governors Island in NY.

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

FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY

Fire Hits Apartments Above Popular Pittsburgh Bar DALE FEEHRER

Future Linglestown Fire Company firefighter Hayes takes his dad, Jeff J., who is the president and active firefighter with Linglestown, for multiple laps around a training held by area fire companies. Equal time was spent between viewing apparatus and firefighting tactics from different angles.

PITTSBURGH, PA – At 6:12 P.M. on April 5th, City of Pittsburgh firefighters were dispatched to a reported air conditioner on fire located above Jack’s Bar on East Carson Street in the city’s JUMP TO FILE# busy south side sec- 040721102 tion.

The first arriving units reported a working fire with heavy fire on the 'Delta' side third floor of a fourstory, multi-use building. A second-alarm was requested as crews went to work. Crews ran into residents still inside the building and were able to safely help them exit.

Firefighters were able to get a quick knock on the bulk of the fire, but spent some time extinguishing hot spots. The fire was finally placed under control just over an hour after dispatch. A total of 13 residents were displaced by the fire. None of them were injured.

Jack’s Bar, a popular Pittsburgh bar, sustained smoke and water damage and was expected to open the next day. The fire is now under investigation.

- ERIC RASMUSSEN

FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY

Crews work to find hot spots.

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May, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

A bowl full of flavor…

FORK & HOSE CO. a Food Blog by A.J. Fusco

JC KRIESHER

Three homes on Broad Mountain Ave. were damaged by fire in Frackville.

Frackville Fire Damages Three Homes FRACKVILLE, PA – Around 2:45 P.M. on Tuesday, April 6th, fire sirens wailed around Frackville as crews responded to a house fire on South Broad Mountain Avenue.

The first-alarm was sent to the 300 block of South Broad Mountain for multiple calls reporting a house fire. The initial response included Fire Districts 43 (Frackville), 4 (Englewood), 36 (Altamont), and 48 (Citizens–Mahanoy City). With a column visible and the multiple calls for a fire, Chief 43 requested RIT from Mahanoy City be sent with a working fire page.

Ladder 43-20 arrived to find a working fire in a two-and-a-half story duplex. The ladder took the address while Engine 43-10 followed, securing a water supply. Engine 4-19 nosed in to 43-20 while Engine 36-17 and Tower 48-20 were sent to the rear.

Crews found heavy fire consuming the rear of both houses.

Many lines were stretched to both

One of my favorite things to cook and eat are “bowls”, which you may see on menus all over these days. Typically made with grains and topped with proteins and vegetables, they have become more popular in recent years with the explosion in health conscious eaters. The beauty of them is that they are not only usually healthy, but also convenient at that. With our seemingly never ending busy schedules, the “bowl” is the perfect “on the go” meal. There are no rules when it comes to these, so use your imagination, whatever you have in the fridge and get cre-

ative.

Lamb is a protein that I don’t eat often but when I do, I like to use assertive flavors because lamb can stand up to it. The most popular cuts are certainly chops and leg, but ground lamb is extremely versatile as well. Many supermarkets carry it, although it may take some searching for. It makes a great burger, but in this case cooks up perfectly for this Curry-spiced Lamb Bowl with Sweet Potato.

Cooking the meat until it just starts to brown and then breaking it up with a spoon helps keep some texture, getting little crispy bits which we all love. And like I said earlier about assertive flavor, you can’t get more assertive than curry.

The big misconception is that curry is one type of stew or sauce, when in fact it is neither. The term has so many meanings it’s almost meaningless! Different cuisines use various ingredients in their

curry, depending on if the curry is in paste, powder or sauce form.

Most easily accessible in most supermarkets is the powder, where it is usually found in the “International” aisle. A typical curry powder has turmeric, which lends a yellow color, chile powder, ground ginger and coriander, black pepper and cumin. All of these flavors pair really well with lamb, so it’s perfect for this dish. The addition of the Garlic-Lemon Yogurt adds some extra fat to the lean lamb and the acidity of the pickled onions cuts through the lamb’s richness.

It’s a well balanced meal with the addition of sweet potato, which adds fiber and a touch of sweetness, to counter the heat of the curry.

If you are not afraid of flavor, definitely give this one a shot! And if lamb isn’t your thing, substitute with ground pork or even chicken.

JUMP TO FILE #041821105

the front and the back as other crews laddered the building.

Thick black smoke could be seen from the rear while brown smoke was pushing from the first and second floors in the front. Siding was melting on the 'C' side exposure as crews stretched toward the fire. Command requested Engine 64-10 and Tiller 64-25 to the scene from Shenandoah.

Firefighters were able to make good progress on the flames as Tower 48-20 climbed to the roof and opened up a vent hole.

The fire was mostly under control within 30 minutes, with crews working to open up and find hot spots for another hour. The American Red Cross was requested to the scene to assist those displaced.

- JC KRIESHER

CURRY-SPICED LAMB WITH SWEET POTATO, GARLICLEMON YOGURT AND PICKLED RED ONION Serves 2-4 Ingredients: 1lb. Ground Lamb 2 tsp. Curry Powder Salt, to taste 2 Cups Kale, chopped 1 Clove Garlic, chopped 2 Sweet Potato, halved Optional:Chili Powder and Fresh Herbs for garnish (Cilantro, dill and/or parsley) EVOO Yogurt: ½ Cup Plain Greek Yogurt 1 Clove Garlic 1 Lemon Salt, to taste EVOO Pickled Onions: 1/2 Red Onion, thin sliced 1.5 Cups White Vinegar 2 tsp. Salt ¼ Cup Sugar

-For the onions: place the sliced onions in a small bowl.

Put the vinegar in a small pot over medium-high heat. When it starts to simmer, add the salt and sugar, stir to dissolve. Pour the vinegar over the onions and set aside to cool.

-For the sweet potato: place a steamer basket or colander in a large pot. Add water until it reaches 1 inch below the bottom of the basket. Put the sweet potatoes in the steamer basket and bring the water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, cover the pot, reduce the heat to medium and allow the potatoes to steam until you can insert a paring knife without resistance, about 20 minutes.

-In the same pan over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of EVOO. When the oil is shimmering add the ground lamb and press down with a spatula. Cook for 2-3 minutes, untouched or until the lamb starts to brown. Sprinkle it with curry powder and a pinch of salt. Break up the lamb with the spatula and add the kale back to the pan. Sauté until lamb is just cooked through, another minute or 2.

-For the yogurt: combine the yogurt, juice of lemon and microplaned/minced garlic in a small bowl. Add a pinch of salt and drizzle of EVOO, stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning. Set aside.

-For the lamb: Heat a medium sauté pan over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of EVOO. Stir in the garlic and kale, sauté for a couple of minutes until the kale is wilted. Remove to a bowl and set aside.

-Assemble the bowl: spoon the yogurt in the bowl, set the sweet potato on top and sprinkle with salt. Top with the lamb and pickled onions. Garnish with chili powder and herbs.

Procedure:

JC KRIESHER

AJ FUSCO

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

May, 2021

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May, 2021

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

STAYING FIT Part 1 Prioritizing Chaplain’s Corner Pastor Fernando Villicana

We all know how important exercise is for a healthy body.

Anytime I visit the doctor I pretty much get the same advise - eat well and exercise regularly. I knew that before my appointment but…we already know the right things to do!

The problem is we either lack the discipline or have a hard time finding time for these things that are important. Today in our society there are more time-saving devices than any other time in the history of mankind. Yet we still don't seem to have enough time.

We're always in a hurry. It’s like the pilot in World War II flying over the Pacific, he radioed back, "I have absolutely no idea where I'm going. I'm lost. But I'm making record time."

Have you ever felt that way?

Busyness and productivity can be two completely separate things.

Sometimes we need to just slow down a bit and get divine direction. Our spiritual health is just as (or more) important than our physical health. In order to stay fit you have to make selections and choices in life. It’s called time management!

The Bible has this to say

about time management. Ephesians 5:15,16 (Phillips trans.)

"Live life, then, with a due sense of responsibility, not as men who do not know the meaning and purpose of life but as those who do. Make the best use of your time, despite all the difficulties of these days."

Well, first we need to make a mental note of the things that matter most in life - that’s prioritizing. Is God in the center of your choices.

Are you spiritually fit. 1 Timothy 4;7 (Phillips) says: “Take the time and the trouble to keep yourself spiritually fit.” How do we do that? The best way to start getting spiritually fit is to include God in your daily life. After all, He is our creator and knows exactly the way in which we should go.

The Bible is the best source of direction - do you read it? Prayer is the best way to communicate with God - do you talk to Him? The goal is to be fit - body, soul and spirit. It’s not rocket science, it’s actually pretty simple. Let’s line up our priorities and stay fit.

Start off by praying: Lord, I know I can’t save time, stretch time or add time to my life, I just have to manage it. Help me Lord to make good use of the time that you have given me. I want to be physically and spiritually fit so I can complete the mission you have given me. I ask you to come into my heart and lead me through life Amen.

Thank you for taking the time to read through this message.

KEN SNYDER

Catasauqua's ladder pipe was deployed on the trailers.

Fire Damages Trailers at Old Dairy Site in Whitehall Twp. WHITEHALL TWP., PA- On April 8th, an employee who was burning wood and cardboard accidentally caused a fire, damaging three truck trailers and part of a building.

The blaze was reported around 1:50 P.M., with a heavy column of black smoke showing from the Allentown/Whitehall Twp. line. The blaze was located at the rear of the old Lehigh Valley Dairy at 1002 MacArthur Road in the township.

JUMP TO FILE #041321123

This site consists of 10-acres with several buildings on it, and is scheduled for redevelopment.

Allentown's Engines 9 and 6 were first due, followed by Whitehall and Catasauqua units. A dead yard hydrant created a water supply problem, so Whitehall Command requested the Lehigh

County 9-1-1 Center to dispatch a tanker task force. This brought in tankers from Woodlawn, Greenawalds, Schnecksville, Emerald and New Tripoli.

It was reported that one firefighter was taken to Lehigh Valley-Cedar Crest Hospital with abdominal pains.

- KEN SNYDER

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

Witmer Fire Protective Assn. operates a 2019 Pierce Enforcer 4x4 1500/500 as Engine 62-1.

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TERRY RITZ

Dwelling Fire in Pennsburg PENNSBURG, PA - On Tuesday, March 30th at 3:15 A.M., the Pennsburg Fire Co. was dispatched to a dwelling fire at 45 Fourth St. in the borough. Upon arrival Chief 65 had nothing showing from the exterior but had a smoke condition in the interior. After going inside to investigate it was found to be a smoke condition from a malfunctioning oil burner. Crews used fans to ventilate the structure. There was no injuries. The condition was brought under control within the half hour. Assisting Pennsburg were fire companies from East Greenville and Red Hill. Upper Perk EMS also responded to the location.

MEMORIES If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Memories” feature please upload them on our website www.1RBN.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

ALAN HOFFMAN

The Green Lane Fire Company once ran this 1980 Seagrave Pumper with a 1250-GPM pump and 1000-gallon tank as Engine 42-21.

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.

JC KRIESHER

Summit Station Tanker 34-36 nurses its water to the scene of a house fire in Wayne Township.

DAVE BUTCHER/ENGINE 72 PHOTOGRAPHY

Jaxson Dempsey along with his father Matt Dempsey, his 19-month-old sister Lelia, and his mother Kristen Durso, stand with McAdoo FF Richard Kott, Hazleton Mayor Jeff Cusat, and State Rep Tara Toohill after the parade and awards were given to the boy for saving his sister's life.

Local First Responders Honor 8-Year-Old Boy for Saving Sister’s Life HAZLETON, PA - Eight-yearold Jaxson Dempsey was recently honored by the City of Hazleton Fire Department and others for saving his 19-month-old sister's life. Jaxson credits knowing how to do JUMP TO FILE# the Heimlich ma- 040921115 neuver from watching a Nickelodeon show featuring WWE superstar John Cena a year ago.

Jaxson was with his father, Matt Dempsey, when they picked up his 19-month-old sister from pre-school and stopped at a McDonald's drive-thru for lunch. As they were driving to an appointment, Jaxson heard his sister Leila making chocking sounds and immediately jumped into action performing the Heimlich maneuver on her. Jaxson screamed for his mother and father to pull over and after doing the maneuver three times, the chicken nugget popped out of Leila's mouth.

McAdoo Firefighter Richard Kott heard about the boy’s heroic actions and put together a parade and award ceremony. He stated that when he heard of this, he knew that something had to be done to honor the young man.

Firefighter Kott contacted each of the departments in the surrounding areas and got them all together to do a parade in front of the boy’s home. The City of Hazleton Fire Department and Police Department, along with the Borough of West Hazleton, Hazle Township, McAdoo, Tresckow, Beaver Meadows, Harwood Fire Company, Valley Regional Fire and Rescue, and Lehigh Valley Health Network EMS all drove by the boy’s house with lights and sirens blaring.

DAVE BUTCHER/ENGINE 72 PHOTOGRAPHY

Freeland American Legion Post 473 Commander Jerry Gaffney presents Jaxson with a medal for saving his sister's life.

Jaxson stood with his father as they waved at the firefighters, police officers, and EMS personnel. Firefighter Kott presented Jaxson with an award for saving his sister's life.

In addition, Hazleton Mayor Jeff Cusat presented Jaxson with a Proclamation from the City, and State Representative Tara Toohill presented him with an award from the State of Pennsylvania. The Freeland American Legion also presented Jaxson with an award for his heroism.

After Jaxson's story went viral, his hero, John Cena, also sent him a video taped message. Jaxson was asked at one time what he wanted to be when he grew up and he proudly said he wanted to be a firefighter.

The parade was held on Wednesday, March 31st, and the award ceremony at the Freeland American Legion was held on Friday, April 9th.

- DAVID BUTCHER

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Two-Alarm Fire Damages East McKeesport Floral Business & Home EAST MCKEESPORT, PA - At 12:18 P.M. on April 10th, firefighters were dispatched to Lea’s Floral Shop located along the 1000 block of 5th Avenue for a confirmed commercial structure fire.

Crews arrived and found heavy fire in the rear of the structure, with an exposure also on fire, JUMP TO FILE# and a second-alarm 041121107 was quickly requested. All occupants of both the floral shop and the exposure apartments were accounted for as crews made entry into both structures to begin attacking the fire.

A good knock of the fire was obtained quickly, but crews worked for about 45 minutes before bringing the fire under control at 12:59 P.M. The owner of the floral shop stated that a neighbor came into her shop saying the top back porch was on fire. After she made sure that everyone was out safely, fire was quickly consuming the back of the building as the neighboring house began to catch fire.

Thankfully, no one was injured, however, a cat in one of the apartments was found deceased. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY

- ERIC RASMUSSEN

Rick Billings

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.

Fame EMS of Lewistown (Mifflin County) recently placed into service two 2021 Ford Interceptors for their officers. EMS 12 belongs to the chief, and Duty 12 is used by the on duty platoon chief.

DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY

DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY

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Vehicle News

DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY

DALE FEEHRER

The William Cameron Engine & Hose Company of Lewisburg will be placing this 1997 Duplex/Quality/Aerial Innovations 100' Tiller in service as Truck 2-2. It began at Hagerstown, Maryland, 1 of twins; this one was then sold to York Township where it served before coming to Lewisburg.

The West Hanover Twp. Fire Co. #1 has taken delivery of this 2021 Pierce Enforcer Pumper-Tanker (1750/1800/30f). This piece will serve as Engine 36-3.

DALE FEEHRER DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY

The Castanea Fire Company of Clinton County now operates this 2013 GMC as Brush 3-10. It has a 100-GPM pump, carries 175-gallons of water, and was previously privately owned. It replaces a 1986 Chevrolet/Stahl from DCNR.

The Fame Fire Co. #3 has placed this 2021 Spartan/Custom (2250/750/30F) engine into service as Engine 53.

See your NEW truck in this space!

FRANK ROBINSON

Spring Township Fire Department now operates this 2020 E-One Typhoon 1500/500.

If your truck is new from a manufacturer or new to you, we want to feature it in our vehicle news section!

Email a clear, outdoor, well-lit photo to us at: News@1stResponderNews.com Along with a brief description of the vehicle as well as the name of the department.

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Working Attic Fire in Hazle House Quickly Doused HAZLE TWP., PA – At 5:04 P.M. on Monday, March 15th, Luzerne County 9-1-1 sent out a first-alarm assignment to 601 West Green Street in Hazle Township for a residential structure fire.

Company 141 (Hazle Twp.), 241 (Harwood) and Medic 11 were due.

First responding units were advised of multiple calls being received reporting a fire, possibly in the attic. 141 Engine 2 arrived on scene to find a working fire in the attic. Chief 141 arrived and assumed command.

Command requested an engine from West Hazleton 183 and a Rapid Intervention Team from Hazleton City 139. 183 was directed to come into the scene and lay out a supply line from Engine 2.

Crews stretched a line off Engine 2 into the duplex. Smoke could be seen emanating from the eaves and a vent on the roof. 141 Ladder 4 was brought in at the 'C'/'D' corner and began to set up the stick to the roof. Engine 3 arrived and teamed up with the lad-

JUMP TO FILE #041821104

der crew to throw ground ladders.

139 Engine 2 arrived and sent manpower forward to act as RIT. As firefighters were preparing to head to the roof to open up, interior firefighters radioed that they had been able to locate the fire and knock it down. Interior requested the roof team hold off on opening up.

Windows in the upper floors were taken out and a roof crew opened up a vent on the 'A' side of the roof. Interior crews hydraulically ventilated the building. Additional crews entered with salvage tarps and a ventilation fan was set up.

The fire was marked under control and crews were ready for service around 6:00 P.M. A State Police Fire Marshal was requested to the scene to investigate the cause.

- JC KRIESHER

JC KRIESHER

ACTION SHOT

Crews work to get to the upper floors of this house on Green St. in Hazle Township to knock down a small fire.

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.

DEPUTY CHIEF JIM ALERCIA

Palmer Township Police assist their fire department with advancing hose lines at a residential garage fire.

TERRY RITZ

MVA with Rescue in Upper Hanover Twp. UPPER HANOVER TWP., PA - On Monday, March 29th at 8:04 P.M., the East Greenville Fire Co. was dispatched to Church Rd., near Houck Rd., for a motor vehicle accident with entrapment.

Upon arrival, first responders had a car over the guardrail and down an embankment with extensive damage, and a male driver that was heavily pinned. The driver was conscious and responsive. There were no other passengers in the car. After the rescue was completed the driver was transported to the hospital by ambulance. The cause of the accident and the condition of the driver were not available. Responding with the fire company were fire police from East Greenville and Pennsburg. Upper Perk EMS and PA State Police also responded.

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

The Union Fire Co. #1 of Manchester was established in 1858 and incorporated in 1912. The borough of Manchester sits 15 minutes north of York. With the size of the borough being less than onesquare-mile, and having less than 3,000 residents, it makes up for it's size by serving as a transportation hub. With it's close proximity to Interstate 83, and available land the area has grown and now multiple warehouses and distribution centers occupy the southern area of Manchester.

The Union Fire Co. #1 moved into their current firehouse in 1956, with a social hall being added on years later. The 28 active members respond to 300 calls per year between Manchester and mutual aid to the surrounding areas, and share duties on Interstate 83.

The apparatus consists of 2 engines, and a rescue which are all American LaFrances with both engines previously serving in other states before coming to Manchester. The company also operates 2 support vehicles (OIC units).

In recent years, the fire company purchased the home directly next to the station to create a museum and offices to help alleviate some items.

Where the dining room was originally, now serves as the main museum with its centerpiece being an 1858 American Acme hand pumper. It was the first piece bought by the company and was built only a few miles away in Emigsville, PA. The 2 support vehicles also take up the two-car garage.

DALE FEEHRER

DALE FEEHRER

Engine 23-1, 2004 ALF (2000/780), X-Huntington Fire Dist., Long Island, NY.

Company museum & offices.

DALE FEEHRER

Rescue 23, 2003 ALF (Hurst & TNT).

DALE FEEHRER

1858 American Acme Hand Pumper located in the "dining room" of the museum.

DALE FEEHRER

Engine 23-2, 2003 ALF (1250/1000), X-Salisbury, MD.

DALE FEEHRER

The LaFrances.

DALE FEEHRER

Current firehouse.

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Crash Closes Busy Perkiomen Ave. in Exeter Twp. for One Hour EXETER TWP., PA - Berks County Communications dispatched units to Perkiomen Avenue and Sunset Manor Drive in Exeter Township shortly after 7:30 P.M. on April 13th for a two-vehicle crash. Initial reports JUMP TO FILE# were of a two-vehicle 041421102 head-on crash, with two subjects pinned.

Upon arrival, one driver was out of their vehicle. Crews went to work on the second vehicle, which had substantial damage. A tow truck was used to make room by pulling the other vehicle away from the vehicle with the trapped driver.

Extrication took just under 20 minutes and the driver was transported to the hospital by Life Lion EMS. The roadway was reopened about an hour later.

- DAN MILLER

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or subscribe online at Crews from Exeter Twp. Fire Department and Birdsboro Union Fire Department work to extricate the driver of a vehicle.

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Electrical Fire Quickly Consumes Glassport Home GLASSPORT, PA – At 9:40 A.M. on March 28th, fire crews were dispatched to the 600 block of Michigan Avenue for a reported electrical box on fire inside a residence.

Arriving crews reported heavy smoke showing from the attic area of the home and a sec- JUMP TO FILE# ond-alarm was re- 032821113 quested.

Crews made entry and encountered heavy fire conditions in the attic area and basement of the home.

An aggressive attack was made and after about 30 minutes, the bulk of the fire was knocked down. The fire was placed under control at 11:00 A.M. as crews remained on scene for overhaul.

No injuries were reported, and the fire is now under investigation.

- ERIC RASMUSSEN

FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY

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