1st Responder News PA September Edition

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SEPTEMBER, 2020

MULTI-ALARM APARTMENT FIRE BRINGS IN FIREFIGHTERS FROM FOUR COUNTIES

DAN MILLER

North Coventry, PA - Chester County 911 alerted firefighters to a building fire shortly after 7:00 P.M. on Thursday, July 30th. Upon arrival units encountered heavy fire through the roof of the three story apartment building.

- See full story on page 12

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September, 2020

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

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JORDAN BANKERT

Garages Burn During Nighttime Blaze

FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY

Reading, PA - Shortly after 11 p.m. on August 10th, phone calls began to come in at the Berks County DES call center reporting a garage on fire in the 500 block of Birch Street.

Ladder 3 arrived with a heavily involved garage to the rear of 500 North 13th Street. With companies on the road, the fire rapidly spread into adjacent garages. Firefighters stretched hose lines up an alley off of Green Street to attack the fire.

Chief Stoudt (Car 4) established command and advised there was a row of four garages burning. Crews used power saws to force entry into two of the garages to gain access. There was no extension into any surrounding homes. The fire was placed under control at 11:26 p.m. No injuries were reported, the Fire Marshal's Office is investigating.

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FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY

JORDAN BANKERT

Vehicle Fire Spreads into Garage

Reading, PA - On the evening of July 30th firefighters on the “D” platoon were alerted for a fire in the 800 block of North 10th Street. Companies began turning-out around 8 p.m. when a dark column of smoke was observed from several blocks away. Engine 9 arrived at Douglass and Market Place with a well-involved pickup truck burning close to a garage.

Crews stretched a hose line down the street and hit the fire as it was spreading into the garage. The fire was placed under control about 15 minutes later while the roof and facade of the garage was overhauled. No injuries were reported, the Fire Marshal's Office is investigating. Deputy Chief Mike Glore (Car 9) was in command.

Heavy Entrapment at Shaler Township MVA

On August 15, 2020 at 8:21P.M., crews were dispatched to the 1000 Block of Route 8 for a reported motor vehicle accident. Undercliff Engine 264 arrived on-scene and reported a two-vehicle head-on collision with heavy damage and heavy entrapment and requested an additional rescue company be dispatched. Etna Rescue 149 arrived on-scene and began an extended extrication of one occupant with the assistance Elfinwild 261 Rescue. The occupant was extricated in about 30 minutes and transferred to EMS for transport. Several other occupants were also transported to local trauma units.

Crews from Undercliff and Shaler Villa remained on-scene for several hours while investigators processed the scene.

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September, 2020

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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

Lehigh Twp.’s aerial in service at the Northampton second-alarm dwelling fire on April 4, 2020.

KEN SNYDER

Whitehall Twp. Engine 3912 on scene at the working 6th St. garage fire in Fullerton, on March 3, 2020.

HANOVER TWP. FD

Hanover Twp. and Wright Twp. Firefighters Rescue Dogs Stuck on Cliff On July 30, 2020, the Hanover Township FD (Luzerne Cty) received a call for assistance from the Hanover Twp. Police requesting a ladder truck to Rt 309 for two dogs stuck on the side of a cliff approximately 50-feet up from the roadway.

Upon arriving it was determined that two larger dogs were stuck on a narrow ledge. It was unclear how the dogs may have made their way to the location, but it was certain they needed help getting down from the ledge. It was pure fate that the dogs were even noticed by a passerby who, on her way to work, stopped and contacted 911.

The Hanover Twp. FD realized that if they attempted to utilize the ladder that there was a good possi-

JUMP TO FILE #081220101 bility that both dogs would try to get on the ladder and the outcome could have unfortunate consequences. At that point in time the Wright Twp FD was requested for their tower ladder to assist. In the interim, the owner, through social media, realized it was his dogs that were found and made his way to the scene.

The dogs were resting on the ledge until the owner arrived, at which time they got excited, making the situation more tense. The dogs, well mannered, were told to sit which they did allowing enough time for the Wright Twp. FD to ar-

rive and get set-up for the rescue.

The owner was placed in the tower, raised to the location and ultimately both dogs were secured and brought to safety.

The owner was thankful for a job well done in rescuing his animals. He stated the dogs were on the back porch of his residence when he went inside the house for a minute, however upon returning they were gone. The dogs had been missing for over 12 hours until rescued. As of the evening on July 30th, the dogs were in good shape and resting comfortably. Both Fire Chiefs from Hanover and Wright Twp. stated that this is one for the books with a real good ending.

- JOE TEMARANTZ JR.

Upper Saucon Engine 2713 on scene February 26, 2020, at the second-alarm dwelling fire in Coopersburg.

KEN SNYDER

DALE FEEHRER

Truck 67 of the Rohrerstown Fire Co. (2007 Pierce Dash-100’) went “in service” during a mutual aid working fire in Marietta to take a crew up to the roof to check for possible extension.

HANOVER TWP. FD

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In memory of those who gave all

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

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

New York: Jonathan "Thunder" Damon, 38 Rank: Firefighter/AEMT Incident Date: April 23, 2020 Death Date: April 23, 2020 Fire Department: Tupper Lake Rescue Initial Summary: The Tupper Lake NY Rescue Squad mourns the passing of AEMT Critical Care Technician (AEMT-CC) and Firefighter Jonathan 'Thunder' Damon on Thursday evening April 23, 2020. EMT Damon took his final call on Wednesday evening, April 22, at 11:25pm. Jon woke up Thursday morning (4/23/2020) with pain in his back and notified Malone dispatch that he needed help. Thunder was the duty tech on to cover the Village and Town of Tupper Lake at the time, Tupper Lake squad members transported Mr Damon to AMC where he was then flown by North Country Life Flight to UVMC in Vermont Trauma Center were he underwent surgery for an Aorta Dissection. Jon unfortunately did not survive and died that evening.

Illinois: Edward Singleton, 55 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: April 5, 2020 Death Date: April 14, 2020 Fire Department:Chicago Fire Department Initial Summary: Firefighter Edward Singleton contracted COVID-19 during the course of his official duties at the firehouse.

Pennsylvania: Joseph Nealon, Jr., 58 Rank: Firefighter/Chaplain Incident Date: May 30, 2020 Death Date: May 30, 2020 Fire Department: Newport Township Fire Department Initial Summary: On Saturday, May 30, 2020, Firefighter/Chaplain Joseph Nealon, Jr. experienced a medical emergency while on-duty at the firehouse.

He was immediately transported to the local hospital where he passed away. The cause of his death has not yet been determined.

Pennsylvania: Eric Gore, 49 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: April 27, 2020 Death Date: June 2, 2020 Fire Department: Philadelphia Fire Department Initial Summary: Firefighter Eric Gore responded to an emergency at a residence where he came in contact with a person with a known case of COVID-19.

He subsequently passed away on Tuesday, June 2, 2020 from the virus.

Colorado: Joshua MacDonald, 34 Rank: Fire Investigator Incident Date: March 25, 2016 Death Date: April 17, 2020 Fire Department: Berthoud Fire Protection District Initial Summary: On March 25, 2016, Fire Investigator Joshua MacDonald responded to a residential fire where he performed EMS care on an occupant of the home. Later, he returned to investigate the scene of the fire, when he fell through the floor and his leg got caught in electrical wiring. Since that time, he had undergone numerous surgeries, to include the amputation of his leg. Fire Investigator Joshua MacDonald passed away on April 17, 2020.

Texas: Klayton Manning, 18 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: June 9, 2020 Death Date: June 9, 2020 Fire Department: Southeast Caldwell County Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: On Tuesday, June 9, 2020, at approximately 1808hrs., Firefighter Klayton Manning, driving the fire department’s ATV, responded to reports of smoke in the area. While at the scene, he was approached by a man with a gun and was shot and killed. Firefighter Manning’s cousin was with him and also died from gunshot wounds. The assailant is in custody.

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

September, 2020

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TERRY RITZ

Accident with Injuries on The Square Bellevue House Fire Goes to Five Alarms in Pennsburg Crews chase fire during 5-alarm blaze.

On Wednesday, August 19th at 6:50 P.M., East Greenville Fire Company was dispatched to a two vehicle accident with injuries on The Square in Pennsburg borough. On arrival, Chief 38 had two vehicles on the Pottstown Ave. side of The Square.

The patients were being attended by EMS personel from Upper Perk Ambulance Corp. The severity and the cause of the accident were not available. Assisting the fire company were Fire Police from East Greenville and Pennsburg. Also Upper Perk Police District. Pennsburg Fire Company was assisting Trumbauersville Fire Company at a barn fire on Upper Ridge Rd. and East Greenville was covering for them.

Bellevue, Allegheny County On Friday, July 24th at 8:21 A.M., firefighters were dispatched to the 100 block of Grant Avenue for a reported house on fire. Minutes later, Bellevue Chief arrived on-scene reporting heavy fire showing from the first floor of the home and immediately requested a second-alarm.

Within minutes, fire began to run throughout the home, which was di-

FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY

JUMP TO FILE #073020103 vided up into apartments as fire crews had a hard time getting the fire knocked down. Due to the high heat of humidity, the fire quickly grew to five alarms as crews battled for several hours before the fire was finally brought under control. One

resident was home at the time and managed to escape. Several firefighters were treated on-scene and one was transported for heat related illnesses. The American Red Cross is assisting those displaced by the fire. The home, which housed five apartments was deemed a total loss.

The fire is now under investigation.

- ERIC RASMUSSEN

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.

TERRY RITZ

Accident with Injuries in Upper Hanover Twp. ALAN HOFFMAN

This patch is from the Han-Le-Co Fire and Rescue Company #1, Lehigh County Station 33.

On Wednesday, August 19, 2020, at 12:48 P.M., East Greenville Fire Co. was dispatched to an accident with injuries on Kraussdale Rd. and Warner School House Rd. in Upper Hanover Twp. Upon arrival Deputy Fire Chief, Mike Wetzel, had two vehicles with damage and injuries to two persons. Cause of the accident is pending the outcome of the investigation . Assisting the fire company was East Greenville Fire Police and PA State Police. Upper Perk EMS was also at the scene.

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

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September, 2020

Massive fire destroys Ambridge Business Saturday, July 18, 2020 – Ambridge, Beaver County – Just before 5am, Fire crews were dispatched to the 300 block of 14th Street for a reported commercial structure fire. Arriving units found heavy fire showing from a large commercial structure that manufactures steel. JUMP TO FILE# Additional units were 073020102 quickly dispatched as the fire raged. It was soon discovered that the hydrants had low pressure so multiple tankers were dispatched to the scene from both Beaver and Allegheny County. The fire raged for several hours before being brought under control around 11am. The fire eventually went to five alarms bringing in 24 fire companies. Two firefighters received minor injuries and one firefighters was transported to a hospital with smoke inhalation. The fire started in the main building of Sukup Steel where 10 employees were working at the time. All made it out safely. The main building is considered a total loss. The fire is still under investigation.

- ERIC RASMUSSEN

FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY

JORDAN BANKERT

Second Attic Fire in Pitcairn in Less Than 24 Hours

Pitcairn, Allegheny County - On July 28th, at 2:47 P.M., fire units were dispatched to the 500 block of Coal Street for a report of smoke and flames coming from the roof of a house.

Pitcairn Chief arrived on-scene confirming a working fire in a one-story single-family home. Pitcairn Engine 233 arrived first, taking a hydrant and dropping a supply line then went to work off tank water until the supply line was established.

As mutual aid units arrived, interior crews made a good knock on the fire. A crew went to the roof for ventilation and the fire was quickly brought under control. Crews remained on-scene for about an hour to perform overhaul. No one was injured and the fire is under investigation.

FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY

Heavy fire found in rear of Turtle Creek home July 5, 2020 – Turtle Creek, Allegheny County – At 12:10am, crews were dispatched to Albert Street for a report of a house on fire. Police arrived on-scene and found a working fire in a house located along James Street. Fire crews arrived to find the rear of a home fully engulfed and quickly began to attack the fire. Crews had a hard time as the fire began to run the walls into the roof area of the home. Crews worked for over an hour before the fire was placed under control. No one was injured.

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1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

TERRY RITZ

Garage Fire on Kings Highway in Lower Milford Twp. On Tuesday, August 18th, Lower Milford Fire Co., along with several other fire companies, were dispatched to a structure fire in Lower Milford Twp. on Kings Highway Rd. Upon arrival, Lower Milford Fire Chief had a working garage fire with a vehicle in it. He called in for a second alarm for more fire companies due to the severity of the fire. The fire was brought under control within 20 munutes. The cause of the fire is pending the outcome of the investigation. There were no injuries. Damage was exstensive to the structure. Assisting Lower Milford were fire companies from Upper Milford, Milford Twp. Hereford Twp. and East Greenville. EMS unit from Lower Milford and Fire Police from Lower Milford, Upper Milford, and East Greenville. PA State Police also responded.

FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY

Quick Knock Down in City of Duquesne

City of Duquesne, Allegheny County - On August 16th, at 9:51 P.M., firefighters were dispatched to the area of Camp Avenue and South 1st Street for a reported house on fire. Duquesne Chief arrived on-scene and found a working fire at a house on South 1st Street. Crews quickly arrived and were able to knock the bulk of the fire down. Crews then began overhaul before the fire was brought under control at 10:42 P.M.. No injuries were reported and the fire is now under investigation.

Crews work to extinguish fire

FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY

Firefighter Okay After Mayday in Indiana Township Indiana Township, Allegheny County - On August 15th, at 9:24 P.M., fire crews were dispatched to the 200 block of Little Deer Creek Road for a working house fire called in by local police. Due to a bridge out on the road, two additional companies JUMP TO FILE # were immediately 081720101 dispatched to assist. Crews arrived to find a fully involved home with extension into the roof a neighboring home. Crews set up a defensive attack on the main home while other crews quickly knocked down the fire in the exposure home. At one point, a Mayday was called for a firefighter that collapsed in the yard.

Crews quickly removed the firefighter and were treated on-scene by medics. Crews had a tough time extinguishing the fire due to live power lines. Once the power was shut off, crews were able to knock down the rest of the fire.

The fire was placed under control at 10:33 P.M. Both homes were occupied at the time but everyone made it out. The fire is now under investigation.

- ERIC RASMUSSEN

FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

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WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

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

DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY

Truck 91 of Greene County, Center Twp. Vol. Fire Co., was this 1990 Spartan/ITE/1978 Seagrave, 100' rml. This ladder start life as a 1978 Seagrave Admiral With the FDNY Ladder 137. After that it was sold to Interstate who refurbed it with a Spartan Monarch cab and sold it to New Cumberland Fire Dept, Cumberland County. When they retired it, they sold it to Whiteford FC, MD, who then donated it to Center Twp. It has recently been given back to Whiteford.

DAN MILLER

Fire rages out of control at the Ashwood Apartments in North Coventry Township Chester County.

Multi-Alarm Apartment Fire Brings in Firefighters from Four Counties North Coventry, PA - Chester County 911 alerted firefighters to a building fire shortly after 7:00pm on Thursday, July 30th. Upon arrival units encountered heavy fire through the roof of the three story apartment building. Firefighters received reports of trapped individuals and managed to successfully rescue multiple residents from the

JUMP TO FILE #073120100 building. Water supply issues posed a major challenge as the access to the sixty year old building was limited by smaller streets and a park on one side. Command brought in tankers and established

multiple tanker fill sites as well as dump locations in the neighborhood of the fire. There were units from as far away as Radnor and Broomall in Delaware County to assist. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Chester County Fire Marshal's Office.

- DAN MILLER

DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY

The Carmichaels & Cumberland Twp. Vol. Fire Company operates this 2005 Freightliner M2106/Renewed Performance Products rescue truck, which previously served Bloomington, ILL, as Rescue 65-1.

FRANK ROBINSON

Eastern Berks Fire now operates a 2015 Spartan Metrostar 2000/500/50Foam. The unit once served the Madison Park, NJ Fire Company.

DAN MILLER

EMS personnel tend to a vistim who was rescued from the Ashwood Apartments in North Coventry Township, Chester County

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FIRST DUE PHOTOGRAPHY

Overnight fire destroys West Mifflin Home READINGPAFIRE.COM

Reading Firefighters work to extricate an injured mountain biker from Mount Penn Mountain. Crews utilized the "TURK" extrication device to transport the patient up some bike trails to reach the ambulance.

Injured Mountain Biker Rescued From Mount Penn Reading, PA - On Saturday, August 15th dispatchers with the Berks County Department of Emergency Services received a cell phone call from a person reporting a mountain bike incident on Mount Penn Mountain. The caller reported a man had sustained a severe leg injury on the trail below Skyline Drive. While a rescue assignment was being sent the caller was advised to wait near the road to direct crews to the biker. Rescue 1 arrived and was met by the victim's fellow bikers who directed crews to a location on the bike trails below Drenkel Field on Skyline Drive. Based on the patient information provided

JUMP TO FILE #081920112 and the distance/terrain involved, Brush 1 was added to the assignment. Crews encountered a patient with a severe orthopedic injury to his leg. ALS was initiated and the patient immobilized for transport.

Patient was extricated utilizing a stokes basket and the TURK extrication device. After 30 minutes the extrication was complete and the patient was transported to Tower Health Trauma Center.

Chief Kemery (Car 3).

- JASON BATZ

West Mifflin, Allegheny County - At 2:55 A.M, on August 1st, firefighters were dispatched to a reported house on fire in the area of Glenny Lane. The caller reported what appeared to be a house on fire behind the street. A short time after dispatch, a large header was reported in that area. Duquesne Annex 295 Assistant Chief arrived onscene and found a working fire located at the bottom of Paules Lane

JUMP TO FILE #080320100 with heavy fire already throughout the structure. Arriving units set up a defense attack which knocked some of the fire down, but due to the type of home, crews had a hard time getting water into the structure. A tactical decision was made to allow the home to free burn enough to open-

up the building to allow master streams to be effective. After about 20 minutes of allowing it to free burn, crews began to open up multiple master streams. The home eventually collapsed as crews remained on-scene until about 5am.

No one was home at the time of the fire and no injures were reported.

The fire is now under investigation.

- ERIC RASMUSSEN

New Onoko Fire and Rescue Organized; New Organization Formed to Improve Community Public Safety Services Jim Thorpe, PA – Representatives from three of the volunteer firerescue companies that serve Jim Thorpe Borough in Carbon County jointly announced on August 6th that they are starting a new chapter in their history. The new Onoko Fire and Rescue was formed to improve public safety services and create a stronger volunteer fire-rescue service to serve the Borough of Jim Thorpe and surrounding communities.

"Volunteers from the organizations agreed that a merger was the best path forward for the residents of Jim Thorpe, surrounding communities and members." Frank Lauth, President of Fairview Hose Company said.

Bill Diehm, a life member of the Marion Hose Company and Deputy Fire Chief for the Borough

JUMP TO FILE #080720109 of Jim Thorpe acknowledged the need to complete a merger. "The merger of the Fairview, Phoenix and Marion fire companies allows us to start a new chapter in the history of firefighting and service to the residents, businesses and visitors of Jim Thorpe.” “The town and region have a great history and we’re proud to be part of the next chapter” he added.

The name Onoko is well known in the region. As recognition of the past, the members decided to use the name Onoko since it was the name of the original volunteer fire company in East Mauch Chunk. “The Fire and EMS service has many

proud traditions and history. It is important to remember where we came from today and in the future.

Adopting the name Onoko connects us with our firefighting and communities past and begins the first part of our next chapter in our history” agreed Fairview Hose Company merger committee member Mike Yeastedt.

The new Onoko Fire and Rescue will have approximately 25 active volunteer members operating out of the east side fire station in Jim Thorpe, respond to over 100 calls for service a year and will protect the same coverage areas focusing on providing service to Jim Thorpe Borough and surrounding communities.

- ROB BRADY

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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 borough of Womelsdorf was founded in 1762 and was actually named Middletown for its location between Reading and Lebanon, PA. Fifty years later the borough was renamed after it's founder John Womelsdorf.

The history of the fire protection notes that as early as 1815 members of the local fire companies were required to keep buckets by their door in the event of a fire to start or continue bucket brigade operations. It was not until 1833 when the first piece of apparatus was purchased which was a hand pumper.

The first actual fire station was built in 1845. At one point 3 different fire companies occupied the borough (Humane, America, and Columbia). It was not until 1895 when a concerned citizen (who would become the first fire chief) prompted the citizens to consider just operating one fire company. He was successful, and two years later a new firehouse and town hall were erected.

Fast forwarding to 1980, the apparatus and members moved into the current quarters located at 501 W. High St.

Today, the Womelsdorf VFC handles over 300 calls per year with close to 35 active members. The Borough of Womelsdorf is located in the extreme west of Berks County right at the Lebanon County line.

The coverage area for the company is .087 sq. Miles of Womelsdorf and then jumps to 24.2 sq. Miles of Heidelberg Township which gives them a wide range of residential housing, commercial businesses , and rural areas to cover in their first due. Station 47 operates with one engine, a quint, a tanker, and attack.

A special thanks to Chief Martin for the assistance with this article.

*On May 30th, of this year the Womelsdorf VFC will be celebrating their 125th anniversary with a parade and ceremony among other activities.

Ladder 47 1997 Pierce Lance (1500/300/105') x- Lower Merion Twp., PA).

DALE FEEHRER

Tanker 47 1989 International/4-Guys (500/2500).

DALE FEEHRER

Engine 47 1999 Pierce Lance (1500/500) x- Jericho FD Long Island, NY.

Attack 47 2007 Ford F-550/4-Guys (750/300).

DALE FEEHRER

DALE FEEHRER

DALE FEEHRER

Retired Engine 47 1985 American La France (1500/500) Sold to a member in late 2019.

PAgE 15

September, 2020

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

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

TERRY RITZ

Working Dwelling Fire in Milford Twp. Milford Township, Bucks County - On Wednesday Aug. 12th at 3:40 P.M., Numerous fire companies responded to a dwelling fire 1515 Fennel Rd. in Milford Twp. Upon arrival the first responding officer had smoke coming from the windows and the rear of the dwelling. He called the Bucks County Dispatch Center and wanted additional help with manpower and tankers. The weather conditions with the heat and the humidity was a drawback in battling the blaze to bring it under control. It took up to an hour and half to bring the working fire under control. No injuries were reported and the cause is pending the outcome of the investigation. Assisting the Milford Twp. fire company were Trumbauersville, Richland Twp., Quakertown, Tylersport, Red Hill, Pennsburg, East greenville, Perkasie, Hereford, and numerous other fire companies. Upper Perk and St Lukes EMS units and numerous Fire Police were also on the scene.

BACKSTOP

JC KRIESHER

A Pottsville firefighter at the scene of a house fire in Saint Clair

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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

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September, 2020

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.

To meal prep or not to meal prep, that is the question...

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

ALAN HOFFMAN

This Ford F250 Pick up Serves As Utility 53 With The West End Hose Company No. 7 Of Pottsville.

Brush 58 of the Hereford VFC is a 2006 Ford F 350/Darley200/200/8A. KEN SNYDER

Meal prepping is pretty popular these days, but if you are not familiar with the term, let me break it down for you. To meal prep is basically preparing a meal, or portion of a meal, ahead of time. Most of it’s popularity is rooted in the fitness community, where it allows time for working out instead of cooking. But this doesn’t mean it should be solely used by someone who works out regularly. Prepping meals ahead of time has tremendous benefits, some being more obvious than others.

First and foremost, is time. By preparing your breakfast, lunch or dinners ahead of time, it makes eating at work, in between meetings and extracurricular activities much

easier. In today's world, we are busier than ever before and getting a proper homemade meal in is becoming harder and harder. Meal preps are most often prepared and packaged so that they are “grab and go”.

Essentially, you open the fridge, grab a container and off you go with a delicious meal. The most popular way of meal prepping is to pick a day, like a Sunday, and dedicate that day prepping all your meals for the week. Besides time, portion control is another benefit. It allows you the opportunity to control exactly how much you will eat that day. This is beneficial to anyone trying to live a healthier lifestyle. You can tailor the portion sizes to your likings much easier than if you were to order takeout. The other less obvious benefit is that it usually leads to better, healthier choices. If you meal prep healthier foods, you are more likely to grab those when you are hungry, rather than opening the bag of chips or cookies. It “forces” you to make bet-

ter decisions, just based off of convenience and availability.

Meal prepping is not difficult, but there is one thing that can make it harder to stick to…mundane meals! When the term “meal prep” gets brought up in conversation, it is often associated with the same foods. Grilled chicken, brown rice and a steamed vegetable are probably the most common ingredients found in meal prep. But this doesn’t have to be the case. Change your ingredients often to prevent yourself from getting bored. Use a variety of spices, sauces and condiments to keep things interesting. And don’t forget about breakfast, which is often overlooked. It is the meal that sets you up for success for the rest of the day. These egg “muffins” are the perfect meal prep, they are very portable, can be tailored to your liking and pack a nutritious punch in a small bite. They are the perfect way to get into meal prepping!

Stay safe, eat well!

CAPRESE EGG MUFFIN Yields 6 egg muffins Ingredients:

4 Eggs, scrambled 1 Cup Cherry Tomatoes 1 Cup Shredded Mozzarella ¼ Cup Packed Fresh Basil Leaves, sliced thin EVOO Salt Procedure: FRANK ROBINSON

Lyons Fire Company operates a 2003 Ford F350/ KME 200/200 Brush Truck.

-Preheat oven to 350°F

-In a small skillet over medium heat, add a few glugs of EVOO

-When the oil is shimmering, add the cherry tomatoes and cover. Carefully shake the pan often. Cook until tomatoes just start to burst open. Season with a pinch of salt. Set aside

-Spray muffin tin with cooking spray to make removal easier -Pour enough egg to come up about ¾ of the way in each muffin mold DARIN SMITH/TRUCK 18 PHOTOGRAPHY

This 2013 Ford F-550/Knaphiede operates as Brush 19 of the Stone Creek Valley Fire Company, Huntingdon County. It has a 380 pump, 250 water, and previously served Hyde Park, Baltimore County, MD.

-Top with tomatoes, basil leaves and mozzarella -Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through

AJ FUSCO

-Garnish with extra basil

*Will keep in the fridge for up to 1 week

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Social Distancing Dogs Rescued During House Fire in Reading Chaplain’s Corner Pastor Fernando Villicana

What would you say the biggest struggles people go through in life are.

Well, according to a recent study (and perhaps due to the social challenges we are all facing recently), these are the top five struggles: 1. stress and anxiety 2. fear 3. anger 4. financial concerns 5. disappointment and discouragement And guess what I have discovered; most of these problems and concerns involve other people. Sigmund Freud (who founded the discipline of psychoanalysis), said: “There are three major causes of human anxiety: 1) the force of nature 2) the powerlessness of human beings in the face of danger 3) SOCIAL AGGRAVATION (personal conflict) This is when social distancing becomes totally voluntary (lol). Many times our answer to personal conflict is social distancing. We tend to avoid people who rub us the wrong way and create walls and barriers between us.

Sometimes our biggest social struggles is with the people we surround ourselves with on a daily basis. I have come to realize that if you were to totally remove yourself from people, you probably wouldn’t have many problems at all. Most of the problems we encounter in life have something to do with someone else! A family member, a work associate, a neighbor, an ex-husband or wife.

From the very beginning it was brother against brother (Cain/Abel), and disfunction has since been woven into the fabric of fallen man. Husband against wife, wife against husband, children against parents, we even see it in the church and call it “holy wars.”

There has been an age old struggle living in harmony with the people within the sphere of our influence. So, what's the answer? I'm not sure if there is only one answer but I can shed some light on at least one.

STORY: A young woman wrote

her mother from college: "Dear Mom: Sorry I haven’t written sooner. My arm has been broken. And my left leg too, when I jumped from the second floor of my dormitory...when we had the fire.

We were lucky. A young service station attendant saw the blaze and called the Fire Department. They were there in minutes. I was in the hospital for a few days. Paul, the service station attendant, came to see me every day. And because it was taking so long to get our dormitory liveable again, I moved in with him. He has been so nice. I must admit that I am pregnant. Paul and I plan to get married just as soon as he can get a divorce. I hope things are fine at home.

I’m doing fine, and will write more when I get the chance. Love, your daughter, Susie. P.S. Mom, none of the above is true. But I did get a "C" in Sociology and flunked Chemistry. I just wanted you to receive this news in its "Proper Perspective!"?

The focal point/key in finding strength in your relational struggles is proper perspective.

Paul starts right off talking about the blessing of having people in his life.

Philippians 1:3 (NIV) "I thank my God every time I remember you." When Paul wrote this it was at a time of tremendous struggle. He had terrible experiences in Philippi. It was in Philippi that he was arrested illegally, whipped, humiliated, thrown in prison.

While in prison there was an earthquake. Then he was told to leave town.

Paul did not have a good time in Philippi, he had a bad time. Yet he says, when I think of you I remember the good things. "I thank God every time I remember you." Paul could have dwelt on the negative experiences he endured there in Philippi, the painful memories.

But he chose to focus on the things he could be grateful for. Happiness is a choice! Maybe you’ve been hurt by a family member or a friend and you're still holding on to that hurt. You're still focusing on the bad and the negative and it has become a constant struggle.

Maybe your answer to your struggles has been social distancing rather than crossing over and forgiving those who have offended you. Well, it’s time you be grateful for the good in people.

Grateful people are happy people! End social distancing!

Philippians 1:6 Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."

Reading, PA - On the afternoon of Sunday, August 9th firefighters were alerted for a house fire at 518 North 11th Street.

Chief Glore (Car 9) arrived at a 2½ story middle-ofthe-row with smoke showing from the JUMP TO FILE# first floor. Fire- 081120100 fighters from Engine 1 started a hose line stretch while the front door of the dwelling was forced open. The fire was located on the first floor and quickly knocked down. Searches were conducted throughout the dwelling. Several dogs were removed from the structure and required lifesaving measures. The animals were eventually transported to the Berks Animal Emergency and Referral Center for continued care. Chief Stoudt (Car 4) placed the fire under control at 12:32 p.m. There was no fire extension and no other injuries were reported. The Fire Marshal's Office is investigating.

- JASON BATZ

JORDAN BANKERT

Reading Firefighters work their way into this dwelling fire at 518 North 11th Street. Crews located several dogs, brought them out, and provided lifesaving care during the incident. No one was home at the time of the fire.

TERRY RITZ

Read more articles from our columnists online! www.1rbn.com

Accident with Rescue and Injuries in Upper Hanover Twp. Upper Hanover Twp., PA - On Friday August 7th at 2:27 P.M., East Greenville and Pennsburg Fire Companies were dispatched to a auto accident with rescue on Water St. in the township. Upon arrival, Deputy Chief Mike Wetzel had a male driver with injuries. Entrance to the auto was made through the passenger side door. Injuries and cause of the accident were pending the outcome of the investigation. Assisting the fire companies were Upper Perk EMS unit , East Greenville and Pennsburg Fire Police, and PA State Police.

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Vehicle News

FRANK ROBINSON

Exeter Township Fire Department now operates a 2020 Seagrave 1500/1250 Engine Tanker.

Valley Chemical Fire Company now operates a 2020 international/ 4 Guys 4x4 1500/750.

FRANK ROBINSON

Wyomissing Fire Department now operates a 2020 Pierce Enforcer 1500/500/107' Quint.

DALE FEEHRER

The Friedensburg Fire Co. #1 has taken delivery of their 2020 Pierce Enforcer engine (1750/1000/40f/CAFS). This piece will be designated as Engine 34-10.

DALE FEEHRER

DALE FEEHRER

The Wyomissing Fire Dept. has placed this 2020 Pierce Enforcer/PUC/Ascendant (1500/500/107') into service as Ladder 79.

FRANK ROBINSON

The Hyde Fire Company of Lawrence Twp., PA now operates this 2020 Pierce Saber (1250/1800) as Engine-Tanker 6.

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New York City Rescues (4) VIDEO REVIEW

Video reviews by John Malecky

New York City Rescues (4) 5 DVD Set

By Advanced Print & Video Available from: FSP Boos & 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: $69.95

This is the fourth disk of the five disk set, and it is of Rescue Company 4 which is stationed in the Borough of Queens. It is also 60 minutes in length. Unlike the introductions of the last three disks, this one has strong music instead of Fontella Bass singing “Rescue Me.” There is a brief presentation of fires in the District of Columbia (DCFD), which I believe was presented to show that the company sells activities from other cities.

This Rescue 4 footage covers

RICHARD BILLINGS

1ST Responder Newspaper - PA

incidents in 1998 and 1999. There is an introduction about the company by one of the members, as was shown in the first two disks by members of Rescues 1 and 2. In all, there are other interviews about some of the equipment such as K12 saws, Rabbit Tools and Bunny Tool and airbags. Sadly, the two members giving these interviews later lost their lives in two different incidents. FF Harry Ford lost his life with two other men in “The Father’s Day Fire” in 2001, and Captain Brian Hickey lost his life on 9-11-01 with 342 other firefighters.

Activities shown on this disk include several major fires, including taxpayers (a group of generally one-story buildings with common cocklofts cheaply built just to pay the taxes of these properties), a private dwelling which caused a stubborn fire, and others, overturned vehicle on the Long Island Expressway, a collapse at a construction site which trapped workers, and others. Radio traffic can be heard and there is a brief description of the scenes by the videographer.

There is also a brief tour of the inside of one of the buildings after the fire was knocked down. This disk has a lot of fire and a lot of action.

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

14180 State Route 267 • Montrose, PA 18801

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

www.twintierfireandsafetyservice.com

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www.campbellsupply.com

2040 State Route 208, Montgomery, NY • Tel: (845) 565-7700

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September, 2020

1015 Cranbury River Road, South Brunswick NJ • Tel: 1-800-800-3959

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