Fire News New Jersey, March 2022 edition

Serving NEW JFire, ERSEY Serving Rescue

VOLUME 16, NO. 10

W W W .FIRENE WS .COM

Fire,Serving Rescue & EMS Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes & EMS Heroes Heroes Since 1973 Since 1996 1973 MARCH 2022

See story on page 7.

- Fire News photo

by Peter Danzo

Two Killed as 3-Alarm Arson Burns 6 Homes in Trenton See page 16.

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Fire News, March 2022, Page 3

In this issue...

Mayday at Trenton 2-Alarmer One firefighter injured at warehouse fire on Christmas Eve 2021.

See story on page 6

Looking Back Action from the past from Mt. Laurel, Fieldsboro and Florence Twp. See story on page 8

Fire Crews Fight Fire on Fire Road West Atlantic City crews returning from one job catch another.

See story on page 10

3 Alarm Arson Kills 2, Damages 6 Homes Trenton firefighters and mutual aid respond to a fire early on Christmas Day. See story on page 16

New Chiefs for 2022 New officers from South Amboy, Bergenfield, Milford and Denville.

See story on pages 19, 22 & 27

A Service for New Jersey Firefighters and EMS Heroes 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713 FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher TIM EDWARDS, Executive Editor DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor GARY P. JOYCE, Managing Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production/Sales LYNN SEDLER, Art Director CLIFF CHIESA, Production Manager BARBARA CONNOLLY, Advertising Sales BRYAN LOPEZ, Editorial Assistant GREGORY JONES, Graphic Artist FIRE NEWS NEW JERSEY PHOTOGRAPHERS Chad Aaronson, John Axford, Keith Addie, Adam Alberti, Ted Aurig, Kenneth E.Badger, Dick Berry, Tommy Bilancia, Thomas Bischoff, James Bonner, Joseph Brecko, John Buttino, Bob Chester, John Clark, Alex Coulter, Carl Crossman, Damien Davis, Chris Denton, Alan Dumoff, Brian Duddy, Brett M. Dzadik, Dan Eckert, Doug Fenichel, Tom Finnegan, Joe Fortunato, Liam Glinane, Israel Goldstein, Thomas Hayden Jr., David Hernandez, Robert Halberstadt, Roman Izaryk, Erica Jacoby, Jeffrey Konya, Kevin Maloney, Robert Munson, Paul Newborn, Robert F. Newkirk, Denis Niland, Mike Nowacki, Elvin Padilla, Ed Pinkevicz, Dane Policastro, Michael Ratcliffe, Joe Repici, Paul Rodriquez, Mark Rosetti, Chris Saraceno, Robert Scollan, Dennis C. Sharpe, Steve Sperlak, Steve Skipton, Matt Spadaro, Danielle Tagerty, Tim Sullivan, Robert Tallaksen, Wayne Tasaki, Giuseppe Tartaglia, Jim Trepeos, Gregory Taylor, Ron Trout, Ken VanPelt, Kevin Umbach, Jose Vazquez, Ronnie Viola, Tom Vogel, Tom Walker, Mike Wallace, Chris Whitam, Wells P. Wilson, Gerald Wyhopen, Jr., Peter Danzo. Columnists: Bruce Johnson, John Salka, Billy Goldfeder.

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Nine Editions Serving Long Island, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wildwood, NJ Proud Member Of:

Up Close and Personal A closer look at first responders from around the state.

See story on pages 29 & 30

PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 4 Special Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 24 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 26 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 26 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pages 28 & 29

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of the NJ State Firemen’s Convention Letters to the Editor, byline articles, and columns represent the opinions of the writers and photographers and are not necessarily the views of the Fire News. We reserve the right to edit all of the above. We are not responsible for errors in advertisements beyond the cost of advertising space. Copy submitted is subject to editing for space requirements.

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Page 4, Fire News, March 2022

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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor

Winter Blues are Almost Gone!

I really think we have had worse winters so far. Yes, it’s been cold, however on Long Island we survived an 18-inch snowstorm. In my early years as a firefighter, I looked forward to standing by at my firehouse for snowstorms. As I have aged, I find the warmth of my home a better place for me to ride out the storm!

Before I continue with my editorial, I would like to thank my company for riding past my home after a recent storm and taking the time to dig me out. Digging out the senior members of the Terryville Fire Department has been a tradition that is still carried out today. I know first-hand that snow standbys do not end immediately after the snow stops falling. The members traditionally ride past members in need to make sure their homes are cleared so that they can safely respond to calls. From a personal viewpoint, it hurts to stand on my driveway and watch my family of firefighters clear a path so I can continue to respond to calls. Thank you, Terryville Fire Department Company 2, for your help! I will have the coffee ready for you when you return after calls.

I would like to reflect on the recent rash of Line of Duty Deaths in our nations police departments. As I watched the live coverage at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in NYC of Detective

Wilbert Mora’s and Detective Jason Rivera’s funerals, I am not ashamed to say that there were times during the funeral service that I was teary eyed. I could feel the passion of His Eminence Timothy Cardinal Dolan as he comforted the families of our fallen police officers.

I was genuinely moved by the outpouring of love from the thousands of police officers and other responders, who stood in the cold and snowy weather to show strength and offer comfort to the families of New York City’s fallen police officers. As I heard the voice of Detective Jason Rivera’s wife eulogize her husband. I became teary eyed. She brought back the importance of always hugging your family when you go to work as a first responder. You never know if you will return to hug them back. Like all responders, worldwide, we are present to help the members of our communities. I just wish that communities would realize this and encourage change to respect those individuals that are trying to make a difference.

According to the ODMP — Officers Down Memorial Page — nationally, there have been 35 LODDs in 2022.Thirty-one of those deaths happened in January! The causes of police officer deaths are varied. Visit www.odmp.org to learn more about police Line of Duty Deaths.

Spring is not far away. It is a time we see

our lawns return to their lush green color and we see our flowers start to emerge from the cold winter that is leaving us. In the fire service, it is a time of the year that we get out and resume our hands-on training at our fire academies and department training facilities. I am looking forward to spring 2022. Take the time to renew your commitment to training so that you are the best that you can be when you go into battle. I leave you with a quote I once heard, “Think positively and positive things will happen.”

See you at the Fire Academy! — Dennis

Two FFs Injured at 2-Alarmer in Trenton Two firefighters were injured while operating at a two-alarm blaze involving four rowhouses in Trenton during the early morning of December 7, 2021. It was just before 0600 that the blaze on Chase Court was reported. First-due fire companies arrived to find heavy fire on the first and second floors of one of the homes in the middle of the row, with flames extending via the cockloft into the three other attached homes. An all hands was called, followed by a second alarm at 0620. It wasn’t until 0735 that the fire was officially declared under control.

One civilian burn victim was transported to hospital by EMS. Also transported were two firefighters, one with a burned hand and the another with a shoulder injury reportedly suffered during a floor collapse.

- Fire News photos by Michael Ratcliffe

Page 6, Fire News, March 2022

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Mayday Called During Trenton Two-Alarm Christmas Eve Blaze Trenton firefighters spent Christmas Eve 2021 battling a two-alarm warehouse blaze and assisting one of their brothers after a Mayday was called. The fire occurred in a vacant structure on South Clinton Avenue and Mott Street. The building, built in 1897 as part of the sprawling John A. Roebling’s Sons industrial complex, was well-known to firefighters due to several previous fires there. It was 2231 when Engines 3, 7 and 10, Ladder 2, Rescue 1 and the South Battalion were dispatched. Engine 3 quickly arrived and reported heavy smoke showing, prompting an all hands. Engine 1, Ladder 4, Special Services 1 and the North Battalion responded. Heavy fire conditions were encountered inside the building and a second alarm was requested bringing Engine 8 and Ladder 1 to the scene. At 2332 a Mayday was transmitted and it was reported that a member of Rescue 1 had been hurt on the first floor. Other firefighters quickly carried their injured comrade outside and passed him to EMS. He was transported to a local hospital, where it was found that his injuries were not serious and he was discharged a few hours later.

The blaze was officially placed under control at 0005. Just a few hours later, before the sun had even risen on Christmas morning, Trenton firefighters responded to an even larger blaze - a three-alarm arson that burned six rowhomes and killed two residents.

- Fire News photos by Michael Ratcliffe

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Fire News, March 2022, Page 7

Cover Story

11 Alarms for Passaic Warehouse Blaze A major fire destroyed a large factory/warehouse and pressed firefighters to the limit in Passaic on January 14, 2022. Companies initially dispatched to a car fire on Route 21 just before 2030 quickly realized they had more than a car fire when they reported a large column of smoke while en route. On arrival, companies confirmed the address as on Canal Street and reported heavy fire in a large factory, approximately 250- x 325-feet, and a second alarm was requested, quickly followed by a third. With a heavy fire condition through the roof and spreading rapidly, exterior lines were put into operation as master streams were being set up. Access to the property was limited and Route 21 was shut down so that aerial streams could be set up on the highway which ran adjacent to the fire building. Additional alarms were requested bringing numerous mutual aid companies to the scene and the Passaic Valley Water Commission was requested to boost pressure as much as possible. The main exposure was a large warehouse that housed a pool supply company and stored a large quantity of chlorine; crews were successful in protecting that building. Eleven alarms were transmitted, bringing over 200 firefighters from six counties to the scene. The fire was placed under control by Chief Trentacost approximately 12 hours later.

At the height of the fire, flames rose almost 100feet above the building and the tremendous smoke condition was visible for miles. Large embers rained down on neighborhoods southeast of the fire but no additional fires were reported. At least 12 firefighters were reported injured mainly due to slips and falls, however only one was transported. Several fire boats were dispatched as the back half of the building fronted the Passaic River but they were unable to be utilized and fuel trucks were brought into the scene to re-fuel apparatus as they began to run low.

- Fire News photos by Peter Danzo

Page 8, Fire News, March 2022

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Looking Back Mt. Laurel - 2019

Florence Township - 1997

On August 27, 2019, Taskforce 36 units were dispatched to fire in a three-story apartment building with heavy fire on all three floors. Battalion 3603 held the fire at the third alarm. Two dogs were rescued, and one firefighter sustained minor injuries.

- Fire News photo by Dave Hernandez

A disabled man was killed and six rowhouses were destroyed during this four-alarm fire in the 200 block of West Second Street in Florence Township, Burlington County, on January 18, 1997. The fire, reported at 11:51 p.m., was not declared under control until 3:08 a.m.

- Fire News photo by Michael Ratcliffe

Fieldsboro Borough - 1997 Three bodies were discovered among the ruins after firefighters extinguished this three-alarm blaze at 9 Washington Street in Fieldsboro Borough, Burlington County, on January 25, 1997. State police investigators later ruled the deaths a double murder and suicide and said the killer used an accelerant to start the fire before taking his own life.

- Fire News photo by Michael Ratcliffe

Michael Ratcliffe

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Fire News, March 2022, Page 9

East Orange Multi-Use 2-Alarm

On January 9, 2022, just after midnight, the East Orange Fire Department responded to the corner of Tremont and Brookwood for a fire. Engine 5 reported heavy smoke in the area and arrived to a large corner residentialover-commercial with heavy fire showing on the first floor. A second alarm was transmitted bringing all East Orange companies to the scene along with an Orange quint. Crews attempted an interior attack as fire extended to the second floor and began to self-vent out of multiple second-floor windows. The fire began to run the cockloft and command ordered all companies out. Three ladder pipes and multiple additional master streams were set up as it became a “surround and drown” operation. The below-freezing temperatures created dangerous icing conditions as crews conducted extended overhaul before clearing the scene over three hours after arrival.

- Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti

Page 10, Fire News, March 2022

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Appropriately Named Location

The volunteer fire companies of Farmington and Cardiff responded to Fire Road on January 18, 2022, at 1555, for a structure fire. The West Atlantic City (WAC) Fire Company, returning from a vehicle fire, responded directly to the scene and were first in. Farmington Chief Harry Goodman IV requested a second alarm, bringing the remaining Egg Harbor Township Fire companies and one engine from Pleasantville. Farmington Engine 1543 upon arrival stretched 100-feet of LDH to a nearby hydrant and supplied the WAC engine.

Also responding were EHT Police, EMS, NJ American Water Company, Atlantic City Electric Company, Atlantic County Road Department for sanding the icy road. Absecon covered Farmington, Linwood covered Cardiff, Somers Point covered Bargaintown, and Northfield was RIT. - Fire News photos by Flora Phillips and Dennis C. Sharpe

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Budd Lake Tractor-Trailer vs. Train Recently, the Budd Lake Fire Department was dispatched to the area of Waterloo Valley Road and Kinney Road at a New Jersey Transit crossing for a report of a train that hit a tractor trailer. An engine and chief were tied up on a garbage fire in town so a city-wide request was put out for Flanders Fire and an engine from nearby Netcong. Units arrived and found a commuter train had struck a tractor trailer that was stuck on the tracks. After a quick assessment the driver of the truck was taken to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries; there were seven people on the train that were not injured.

Units remained on scene for four hours until the truck was removed. Morris County HazMat was called to oversee a vegetable oil spill from the truck.

New Jersey Transit Police and Mount Olive police were investigating the crash.

- Fire News photos by A/C Kevin J. Maloney; Budd Lake FC

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Montclair Car Fire

On January 6, 2022, Montclair Engine 1, Engine 2 and Truck 2 responded to Grove Street for a car fire. Engine 2 arrived to find an engine compartment fire in a minivan and stretched their bumper line. The fire was quickly knocked down while the crews from Truck 2 and Engine 1 assisted in overhaul. Car 6 responded to the scene to conduct an investigation, but the cause of the fire was undetermined.

- Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti

Fire News, March 2022, Page 13

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Bergenfield Garage Fire

Just before 1900 on January 2, 2022, the Bergenfield Fire Department continued their streak of working fires when they were dispatched to Bogert Place for a garage fire.

Companies arrived to fire in an attached garage at a twostory frame dwelling. Heavy fire was venting from the garage and threatening the rest of the home. A second alarm was requested as the first-in engine stretched a 13/4 inch handline and quickly got water on the fire. The main body of fire was knocked down in under 20 minutes with no extension, however, due to limited access to the still burning vehicle in the garage, a winch was used off of Rescue 1 to pull the vehicle from the garage allowing companies to complete overhaul and extinguishment. No injuries were reported and the fire was placed under control in about an hour.

- Fire News photos by Peter Danzo

Page 16, Fire News, March 2022

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Two Killed as 3-Alarm Arson Burns Six Homes in Trenton Just hours after battling a two-alarm blaze in an abandoned warehouse on Christmas Eve 2021, Trenton firefighters went back to work to tackle a three-alarm arson fire that burned six rowhouses and claimed the lives of two residents. Many city companies had barely finished cleaning up from the earlier job when, about 0330 on Christmas morning, multiple 911 calls flooded Trenton’s communications center reporting a fire on Rusling Street. First-due crews arrived to find the 2-1/2 story dwelling fully-engulfed, with flames having already spread to several adjacent homes. Second and third alarms were transmitted in quick succession, sending all on-duty resources to the scene. Mutual

aid in the form of an engine and air cascade unit from Hamilton Township and an engine from Bordentown City were also specialcalled. Multiple hydrants in the neighborhood were tapped to supply the many hoselines and master streams that were put in service.

Ultimately, a half-dozen homes and several vehicles were damaged before the blaze was extinguished. Two bodies were later located amid the ruins of the original fire building. Just days later, authorities announced that a 28-year-old suspect had been arrested and charged with murder and other offenses for allegedly starting the fire.

- Fire News photo by Michael Ratcliffe

Abandoned House Fire in Rutherford

On January 10, 2022, the Rutherford Fire Department responded to an abandoned home on Belford Avenue for reports of smoke coming from the house. Companies were advised while en route by police they had heavy smoke showing and a FAST was requested immediately from Wallington. Crews stretched a line to the interior while Truck 1 conducted vertical ventilation via ground ladders. A second alarm was transmitted bringing East Rutherford and Lyndhurst to the scene. The fire was knocked down within 15 minutes of arrival and mutual aid was released shortly after.

- Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti

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Wanna’ Call it a Night After the First Hit?

On December 5, 2021, the Oakhurst Fire Department was dispatched to Monmouth Road and Park for an overturned vehicle into a building and on fire. Crews arrived to a car rolled over into a ditch a block away from Park with the driver self-extricated and no fire. Further investigation found the vehicle slightly struck a building at the intersection and left the area at a high rate of speed when the drive lost control, struck a utility pole and rolled the car into a ditch. The sole occupant was transported to Jersey Shore Medical Center.

- Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti

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Fire News, March 2022, Page 19

New Chiefs in South Amboy for 2022 On January 1, 2022, the City of South Amboy swore in the new fire chiefs. At a ceremony at City Hall, Mayor Fred Henry swore in 2nd Assistant Fire Chief Timothy Gay from Progressive Fire Company Engine 9, 1st Assistant Fire Chief John Dragotta from Independence Hose Engine 7 and Chief of the Department David Szatkowski from Protection Engine 6. Assistant Chief Gay was accompanied by his wife Lisa as his sons and daughter, Nick, Kevin and Stephanie, watched. Assistant Chief Dragotta was accompanied by his wife Diane and daughters Hannah and Jenna. Chief Szatkowski was accompanied by his mother Eileen and father Edward. Chief Szatkowski is a third-generation fire chief. His father Ed Jr. served in 1981; grandfather Ed Sr. served in 1961; and uncles John (1991) and Steven (2017) also served.

- Fire News photo by Jamie Norek

Bergenfield Fire Department Officers for 2022 (First row, left to right): Deputy 2 Alex Kneisler; Chief of Department. Steven Naylis and Deputy 1 Norman Hoyt, Jr. (Back row, left to right): Lieutenant Greg Coca, Captain Ryan Zadrozan, Lieutenant Kevin Schade, Captain David Byrne and Captain Richard O'Connor.

- Fire News photo by Chris ‘Doc’ Denton

Page 20, Fire News, March 2022

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Paterson Commercial 4-Alarmer

Four alarms were required to bring a fire in a home improvement company under control in Paterson on January 5, 2022. Just after 0500 Fire Dispatch transmitted the box in the 3rd Battalion for a building fire on Berkshire Avenue. Engine 2 reported heavy fire in the rear of the large single-story commercial building. Battalion 3 requested a second alarm due to the volume of fire as well as exposure problems. With heavy fire throughout the building, exterior lines and elevated streams were put in service in both the front and the rear as temperatures

dropped and freezing rain created treacherous conditions on the fire ground, as well as on area roadways. Within 45 minutes the fourth alarm was transmitted, bringing mutual aid companies to the scene and into the city for coverage. Most of the roof collapsed into the building and the fire was finally placed under control just before noon. No injuries were reported, however firefighters did rescue a guard dog from the building. The fire was under investigation.

- Fire News photos by Peter Danzo

Page 22, Fire News, March 2022

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New Milford Chiefs

Thanks to Pres. Kirby

(Left to right): Jerry Smithson, Jr., Second Assistant Chief; Jared Birnbaum Chief of the Department; and Robert O’Brien First Assistant Chief.

- Fire News photo by Chris ‘Doc’ Denton

Outgoing Atlantic County Firefighters Association President Charles ‘Chick’ Kirby was presented a thank you for his service by association 1st Vice-President Dennis C. Sharpe on January 19, 2022.

- Fire News photo by Anthony Cortez

Two Months and Counting!

The 23rd Annual New Jersey Emergency Preparedness Association Conference will place at Harrah’s Waterfront Conference Center, May 2-6, 2022. Will you be there?

All registrations whether you are an Exhibitor, Sponsor or Attendee are open.

We are looking forward to returning to our five-day program offering a diverse selection of breakouts and trainings. Visit our website www.njepa.org to view the schedule and to register.

When you register, you will notice that our fees have increased slightly. We have held our fees constant for the past three years, but we have been forced into increasing them to provide the level of service and amenities that you have come to expect. You will find that there is no additional charge for the Annual Luncheon, all we ask is that you indicate if you will be attending when you register so that we may plan accordingly. Our Conference is still the most economical of its type on the East Coast.

Nominations for the Kevin Tuno Emergency Manager of the Year Award closes April 1, 2022. If you know an individual or a program that is deserving of this recognition, please go to our website and make a nomination.

In addition, applications for the Jonathan Young Scholarships are being accepted until April 15. Any individual, either a senior in high school or enrolled in a college program involving Emergency Preparedness/Management may apply. The application is also available on the website.

Stay up to date on all additions or changes at the Conference by visiting our website, www.njepa.org , often.

We look forward to seeing you in May!

Strawberry Fields MVA and Fire

The Laureldale Volunteer Fire Company responded to Tamminen Road off of Route 322 on December 18, 2021, at 0104, for an MVA with fire. Engine 1833 arrived and Laureldale Captain Bill Sorshek established command for a fire in a vehicle that was located on New Jersey Forest Fire Service property known as Strawberry Field. As Laureldale firefighters extinguished the fire, Forest Fire Unit C-7 arrived and extinguished a field fire started by the vehicle. The incident was investigated by the Township of Hamilton Police and also responding was the Township of Hamilton EMS. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger

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Fire News, March 2022, Page 23

All Hands Put to Work for Blaze in Chambersburg

Just hours after they fought a two-alarm blaze involving a duplex in the city’s West Ward, firefighters in the state capital handled an allhands fire involving two rowhouses on the opposite side of town during the evening of December 10, 2021, on Roebling Avenue, in the Chambersburg neighborhood in the East Ward. Dispatched were

Engines 7, 3 and 10, Ladder 2, Rescue 1 and the South Battalion. Heavy fire was showing from the rear of the structure, located on one end of a row of four attached two-story homes. Firefighters worked to contain damage to two of the four houses, and the blaze was declared under control at 2103.

- Fire News photo by Michael Ratcliffe

Page 24, Fire News, March 2022

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On Ice Training The Egg Harbor Township Fire Department in Atlantic County took advantage of the cold weather to drill on the ice on January 16, 2022.

- Fire News photos by Dennis C. Sharpe

Page 26, Fire News, March 2022

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3 Rescued at Perth Amboy Blaze On January 11, 2022, Perth Amboy Fire responded to a building fire on State Street.

Crews arrived to light smoke showing from a three-story apartment building with occupants trapped on the third floor.

Truck 2's crew immediately set the tower ladder up and removed multiple victims from a third-floor window.

One victim was flown by Northstar Medevac to Saint Barnabas in Livingston while the other two injuries were transported by ground. The fire was knocked down shortly after arrival and companies from Woodbridge, Sayerville and a Department recall for Perth Amboy operated at the scene.

- Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti

Scullville House Fire The volunteer fire companies of Scullville and Bargaintown responded to Marshall Drive, in Scullville on December 26, 2021, at 0853 s for a report of a structure fire. Bargaintown Assistant Chief Wil Hancock reported smoke showing from the B and C sides of a single-family home. Scullville Assistant Chief Vern Cruse reported the rear deck was on fire. A/C Hancock had the fire under control with the home’s garden hose. Command had the crew of Scullville Ladder 1535 proceed to the rear of the home. The cause of the fire was investigated by the EHT Fire Official and also responding were EHT Police and EMS. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger

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Fire News, March 2022, Page 27

Denville Officers for 2022 Denville Mayor Tom Andes and Clerk Tara Pettoni administered the oath of office to Chief James Crothers and the other officers of the Denville Fire Department on New Year’s Day. The 2022 officers are: Chief James Crothers, 1st Assistant Chief Troy Decker, 2nd Assistant Chief Jason Lazcano, 3rd Assistant Chief Michael O’Hara and F.A. Captain Bill Keating. The company officers are: Co. 1, Captain Steve Allaman; Co. 2, Captain Dan Gilberti; Co. 3, Captain Greg Rizos; Co. 1, Lieutenant Kenneth Moller; and Co. 3, F.A. Lieutenant Kimberly Lefferts. After the swearing in ceremony, the Fire Department Association hosted a New Year’s Day party for all the members.

- Fire News photos by Charles Botti

Page 28, Fire News, March 2022

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FDIC ASK THE EXPERT

By Eric Schlett, Senior Vice President, Fire & Rescue

What can we expect from FDIC in 2022?

FDIC International is North America’s largest training and sourcing destination for firefighters and will take place April 25-30, 2022, in Indianapolis, Indiana. FDIC International offers thousands of Fire and Rescue professionals from around the world, quality world-class instructors, classrooms, workshops, HOT evolutions and the most innovative products and services available to the industry displayed by over 800 exhibiting companies. The focus for this year’s FDIC event will be bringing together the industry in-person, for a safe and productive training experience while maintaining the celebration of comradery.

FDIC International will present over 300 tried and true classes alongside updated content on important topics and new areas of interest from the world’s most renowned instructors. The week of training begins with two days of hands-on training (HOT) evolutions and preconference workshops followed by three days of classroom sessions, covering the latest technology and techniques in the fire service.

Back again is Women in Fire for their one-day conference happening on Monday, April 25.

The learning continues on the exhibit floor at FDIC International! Exhibitions span the Indiana Convention Center, Lucas Oil Stadium and the Outdoor Exhibits and Demo Area and give attendees access to explore hundreds of products and services while creating lasting and lucrative business relationships with leading manufacturers.

Our strong heritage and commitment to tradition is epitomized in the 2022 Opening Ceremonies. Every year, thousands of attendees pay tribute to all past, present and future firefighters. Attending this event provides a comprehensive understanding of the gratitude and respect for all those who place their lives on the line to save others. In recognition of outstanding bravery and selflessness, one firefighter will receive the annual Ray Downey Courage and Valor Award.

The FDIC International experience is more than your traditional trade show it’s about the learning and sharing with your peers formally and informally through hallway conversations, developing life-long friendships, and recharging your passion for the industry.

We also recently announced the rebrand and co-location of our event JEMS Conference and Expo (JEMS Con), with FDIC International.

JEMS Con, which was previously known as EMS Today, will offer a forward-thinking approach focused on the future of EMS, operational leadership, training and peer-to-peer sharing and networking. JEMS Con will bring together paramedics, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), medical directors and executives from all EMS providers, including state and private agencies, third service and fire.

Over the past year, we’ve done extensive outreach and had critical conversations with EMS providers, exhibitors, medical directors, and professionals. We’ve taken their insights and suggestions to start to lay the foundation of JEMS Con in 2022. With over 5,000 attendees that identify EMS as their primary job function already attending FDIC, we feel we can create considerable value and efficiencies for the industry in a co-located event. We are committed to welcoming all EMS providers, giving them a dedicated event to comfortably come together to learn, share, and network with peers. We will continue to build partnerships with the EMS community to help shape this event as we plan beyond 2022. We plan to expand the Metro EMS group, add more hands-on training evolutions, enhance the sponsorship experience, and include additional networking opportunities.

We are excited about the opportunities this co-location will offer

the Fire and EMS communities!

What is your MATCH Program, and how can it help visitors?

Our MATCH! program is a free service at FDIC International that was designed to help attendees and exhibitors make the most efficient use of their time by pre-scheduling one-to-one 20-minute meetings to discuss sourcing needs.

MATCH! is easy, efficient and complimentary. Attendees who are actively sourcing products and services in the next 12-24 months will select categories they are interested in within our matchmaking tool.

From there, exhibitor suggestions will be generated, and the attendees can request 20-minute meetings that will take place in our MATCH! VIP lounge eliminating any exhibit hall distractions.

Anyone interested in participating should visit our website, or contact Megan McMahon at megan.mcmahon@clarionevents.com.

In terms of education, what does FDIC offer?

FDIC International offers more ways than ever to learn the latest tactics, techniques, and technologies designed to take your knowledge to the next level. In 2022 FDIC International will present over 300 tried and true classes offering updated content on important topics and new areas of interest from the world’s most renowned instructors. Topics at this year’s conference include rapid intervention, leadership and management, strategy and tactics, emerging technologies, extraction and much more.

The week of training begins with two days of hands-on training (HOT) evolutions and preconference workshops followed by three days of classroom sessions, covering the latest technology and techniques in the fire service.

The Hands-on Training (HOT) Evolutions at FDIC International are something you must experience to fully appreciate. Attendees can choose between 4- and 8-hour Hands-on Training (HOT) Evolutions which cover the latest technology and techniques in the fire service and are instructed by industry icons. No other event in the world contains the vast amount of topics and locations presented at FDIC International.

The FDIC International pre-conference workshops feature both 4- and 8-hour formats and provide attendees with an in-depth look at specific topics covering new areas of interest within the fire service as well as traditional training topics. Attendees can choose from a variety of topics and should be prepared to walk away with new insights, ideas and approaches.

Perhaps one of the most distinguishing aspects of FDIC International’s classroom sessions is the world-renowned instructors.

While you’ll certainly find the largest gathering of industry icons at FDIC International, you’ll also find new instructors from around the world presenting groundbreaking topics. Some of this year’s sessions include Merging EMS into a Fire Department Culture, Thriving in the Fire Service, Swift Water Rescue Rules of Engagement, Down and Dirty Fireground Decision Making, Best Practices for Proficiency-Based Training, The Successful Short-Staffed Engine, and more. Attendees can move between classroom sessions and topics, customizing their FDIC International experience and gaining the most from their time at the event. continued on next page

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Fire News, March 2022, Page 29

Up Close & Personal

Vern Cruse is the new chief of the Scullville Fire Company in Egg Harbor Township. He takes the helmet from Steve Prisamet who left for Tennessee for a new job.

- Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe

Closter Fire Department Fire Marshal Kevin Whitney (AKA ‘Charlie Waffles’) at a recent training evolution with Closter Fire and neighboring departments.

- Fire News photo by Chris ‘Doc’ Denton

continued from previous page Returning in 2022 is Women in Fire for their one-day conference which will take place on Monday, April 25. This conference will begin with an opening ceremony which will take a look at what we know about women’s health in the fire service, including recent and emerging topics such as reproductive health, behavioral health, and modifiable risk factors among this population.

Following that will be a line-up of educational classes that provide training, support and advocacy for women in the fire service.

Plus, FDIC International attendees will have access to additional education sessions being offered as a part of JEMS Conference & Expo since the two events will be co-locating this year.

Additional details are coming soon.

FDIC International is sure to be your one-stop shop for all the education, training and hands-on experience you need to ensure the safety of your communities. Complete conference program details for FDIC International can be found on our website.

How can organizations get involved with the event this year?

Complete information on the FDIC International schedule of events and conference program, as well as how to register and guidance on selecting the registration package that is right for you can be found on our website www.fdic.com. For general show inquiry or assistance, feel free to reach out to our team at FDIC@clarionevents.com and someone will get back to you.

Companies who are interested in securing booth space or discussing sponsorship opportunities should contact our sales team at sales@fdic.com.

Everyone is eager to return to live events.

Has navigating the global pandemic been difficult?

The pandemic hasn’t stopped firefighters and EMTs from having to serve their communities and therefore the need for training hasn’t

Vincentown Deputy Chief Keith Harrison and Medford Deputy Chief William Webb at a house fire in Tabernacle on Christmas Eve 2021.

- Fire News photo by Dave Hernandez

stopped! FDIC International is excited to welcome the fire & rescue industry back to Indianapolis at its regularly scheduled time. The focus for this year’s event will be bringing together the industry in-person, for a safe and productive training experience while maintaining the celebration of comradery. The need for connecting with peers became even more important over the past year and a half when Covid-19 created supply chain issues and shortages, as well as fewer in-person training opportunities. At this year’s FDIC International, the industry can expect to find our traditional robust education and training program, an expansive exhibit hall with leading manufacturers, new technology and networking events designed to celebrate coming together and thanking our first responders for keeping our communities safe.

What hands-on training is available and how can this benefit visitors?

The Hands-on Training (H.O.T.) Evolutions at FDIC International are something you must experience to fully appreciate! Firefighters that attend the Hands-on Training (H.O.T.) Evolutions not only improve their skills, but the information they take back to their departments have an exponential impact on the overall safety of their communities.

Attendees can choose between 4- and 8-hour Hands-on Training (HOT) Evolutions which are all instructed by key players within the industry. This year’s topics cover the latest technology and techniques in the fire service, and include advanced vehicle extrication, active shooter response, open water rescue and drowning resuscitation, heavy vehicle extrication, and more. For complete details, please visit our website.

Page 30, Fire News, March 2022

FireNews.com

Up Close & Personal

New Milford Fire Department Company 1 First Assistant Chief Robert O’Brien and his wife Jacqueline at the swearing in ceremony for the 2022 officers of the Milford Fire Department.

- Fire News photo by Chris ‘Doc’ Denton

Egg Harbor City Chief Butch Kienzle and Mayor Linda Jiampetti at the Atlantic County Firefighters Association Memorial Service and reorganization meeting on January 19, 2022.

- Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe

Blackwood Assistant Chief Mike Coucoules behind the wheel of Blackwood’s new squad.

- Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe