Serving New Jersey's Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes VOLUME 10, NO. 12
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
MAY 2016
Full story on page 6. - Fire News photo by Peter Danzo
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Fire News, May 2016, Page 3
In this issue... Lyndhurst Fire Goes to 3 Alarms A fire travels through the walls and into a cockloft before being brought under control. See story on page 10
A Service for New Jersey Firefighters and EMS Heroes
146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713 FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher TIM EDWARDS, Executive Editor
Fatailty in GSP MVA Mamora and Upper Township respond to a fatal accident on the Garden State. See story on page 17
South Camden All Hands A fire in an end-of-the-row structure is held from the exposure. See story on page24
Tough Job in Mantoloking Two firefighters are hurt in a winddriven fire that results in a collapse. See story on page 27
Seaside Hts. Polar Bear Swim Raises $1.7 Mil Some 6000 people help raise funds for the Special Olympics. See story on page 33
Obituary: Hamilton’s Matthew Robison A member of the Hamilton Fire Department, EMS and Hamilton Dive Team, and Dorothy Rescue passes. See story on page 38
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 30 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 32 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 34 Up Close . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pages 35-37 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 36
DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor GARY P. JOYCE, Asst. Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production/Sales LYNN SEDLER, Art Director CLIFF CHIESA, Production Manager Advertising Sales: BARBARA CONNOLLY, EVELYN ALOISIO Graphic Artist: GREGORY JONES 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, Michael J. Coppola, 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. COPYRIGHT 2016, THE FIRE NEWS LLC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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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. The placing of an advertisement in this publication does not constitute endorsement. Contents are copyrighted. Editorial and advertising copy cannot be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Fire News is published monthly by Fire News LLC, with corporate offices at 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713.
Page 4, Fire News, May 2016
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
Cancer: Are You Concerned? Periodically, I like to remind everyone about the issues in the fire service that are addressed by the Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI) and other organizations in the fire service that we take for granted. If you visit CFSI.org, you will find their 2016 Legislative Outlook. The data in this outlook comes from the National Fire Protection Association and is quite comprehensive. CFSI’s document is a synopsis of the critical issues in the fire service that will be considered during the Second Session of the 114th Congress. I am only going to talk about one concern that is personally important to me. (Visit www.cfsi.org for the full report, which covers all areas of importance to the fire-rescue and emergency services.) One of the issues discussed in the Legislative Outlook is cancer. Recently, I have attended two fire association meetings and this topic. (On a side note visit YouTube and do a search for “Fighting Fires Fighting
Cancer: FASNY Members Share Their Story.”) Each time I heard the presentation, I sat back and wondered where my life altering cancer came from. Was it something I did wrong? Could I have prevented it? I will never know the answer to these questions. When I was diagnosed with Neuroendocrine Cancer, I was told, that I was born with this dormant cancer, and doctors have no idea what woke it up. But let’s face it; the heightened risk of cancer among firefighters has been attributed to their frequent exposure to a range of harmful toxins. Was this my trigger? When I listened to ex-Chief Tony Cruz of the Firefighter Cancer Support Network (FCSN) speak, I realized that I may have put my own personal safety at risk by not wearing my mask when I should have, or by not cleaning my equipment as much as I should have. It has only been over the past few years that we have realized that we, as firefighters, are coming down with this dreaded disease in
Letter to the Editor
Announcements
The attacks in Brussels and Paris remind us of our own vulnerability to another large-scale terrorist assault on our soil. Such a strike surely would further tax our already strained emergency response system. In times of crisis during the last nine decades, New Jersey repeatedly has turned to its army of EMS volunteers. Our predecessors answered “the call” decades ago during the Hindenburg and Morro Castle disasters, as we did on 9/11 and for weeks afterward, and through many devastating storms, blizzards, floods and other catastrophes. Undeniably, without its EMS volunteers, New Jersey could not adequately manage another Superstorm Sandy or World Trade Center-type event. Today, again, we remain ready to respond. New Jersey’s EMS volunteers answer hundreds of thousands of calls annually in their communities. With our growing elderly population and increasing terrorism threat, EMS volunteers have never been more relevant or essential. The 87-year-old nonprofit EMS Council of New Jersey represents 20,000 volunteers affiliated with nearly 300 squads. We’re always looking for new members. To join or support us, visit production.njsfac.org/. Joseph G. Walsh, Jr. emscnj.pres@gmail.com Joseph G. Walsh, Jr., is president of the EMS Council of New Jersey.
CLIFTON FIRE - FMBA LOCAL 21 FIREFIGHTERS UNION FOOD DRIVE Clifton Firefighters (FMBA Local 21) are helping out the community this spring season with their annual Food Drive. During the month of May residents can drop off canned and non-perishable food items at any of the six local city firehouses. The donated items will be packaged up and delivered to St. Peter’s Haven on Clifton Avenue. If any resident cannot get to a local firehouse, contact us at Clifton FMBA21@gmail.com to make arrangements for pickup.
alarming numbers. I hope it never happens to you, but when you sit down with your doctor and you are told that you have cancer, you will go home and rack your brain trying to figure out how you got it and if you will survive. What can you do to lessen the chances of contracting cancer? Watch the video. Learn from my friends who walked down the dark hallway of cancer. On a positive note, I am now seeing fire-rescue personnel taking the time to thoroughly clean up after calls. This past weekend I stopped by a firehouse in NYC. When the company backed into quarters, I observed a member take the time to clean off his helmet so that it was free of contaminants and clean for the next call. Take the time to do one thing; watch the aforementioned FASNY video. I sincerely thank the members of the FCSN for being there for me and my family and for reaching out to all responders to educate them about cancer. ... Dennis
We would like to recognize Sign-A-Rama for providing the display signs gratis. We have had great success over the past years with our Food Drive, Coat Drive and Toys-4-Tots Drive. Thank you to all those that have helped, and we look forward to your continued support! As spring approaches, if you have a winter coat that your child will have outgrown by fall, please keep it aside for our Coat Drive in October. (Left to right): Captain Craig Hopkins, Firefighter Dan Schwaner, Firefighter Steven Turi, and Firefighter Ken Scangarello, along with St. Peter’s Haven Staff. - Fire News photo courtesy of Steven Turi
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Belmar St. Patrick’s Parade On March 6, 2016, Belmar hosted its annual St. Patrick’s Day parade. Union County Police and Fire Pipes and Drums led the way, followed by Wanamassa Fire Company Color Guard. More than 100 firefighters, from Monmouth County and Northern Ocean County, marched for their 15th consecutive year. - Fire News photos by Mike Nowacki
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Page 6, Fire News, May 2016
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Cover Story
Collapse at Passaic 3-Alarmer On the afternoon of January 30, 2016, Passaic firefighters were dispatched for a report of a house fire on Meade Avenue. Battalion Chief Chris Szczygiel arrived to find heavy fire in the rear second floor of a large 2-1/2 story frame dwelling and requested a second alarm. With companies pushing in, the fire extending to the attic and breaking through the roof, interior crews were having a difficult time making the attic and, as conditions deteriorated, command sounded the evacuation signal and requested a third alarm. Several exterior lines were put into operation along with a master stream from the bucket of T-2, as a large portion of the roof collapsed, which caused the attic dormer on the bravo side to collapse into the driveway. The fire was finally placed under control two hours from the time of the initial alarm. - Fire News photos by Peter Danzo
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Linden Battles Brush Fire On March 22, 2016, the Linden Fire Department received a call for a brush fire on PSE&G property on South Wood Avenue. Upon arrival, engine crews found an area of the brush burning under high voltage lines between the PSE&G property and the New Jersey Turnpike. The crews had trouble accessing the swampy area, but were eventually able to quickly get the fire under control. Due to the close proximity to the PSE&G switch yard, a full response was required. Mutual aid came from Rahway, Roselle and Cranford to cover the city during the fire. - Fire News photo by Mathew Pribish
Hackensack SUV Fire Members of Hackensack’s 1st Platoon operaed at a SUV fire on Washington Avenue recently. The fire was quickly knocked down by Engine Company 1. - Fire News photo by Justin Dereyanik
West Orange St. Patrick’s Parade On March 13, 2016, West Orange hosted its annual St. Patrick’s Day parade along Main Street. - Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
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Dinner’s Done
On March 18, 2016, the volunteer fire companies of Mays Landing and Laureldale responded to the Homestead Hotel on Main Street for a structure fire. Mays Landing Chief Robert Hamilton arrived, established command, went upstairs to find heavy smoke emanating from around an apartment door and immediately requested mutual aid from Cologne. Mays Landing Engine 1812 firefighters donned their SCBA upon entering, and encountered heavy smoke. Upon further investigation the fire was found to be from an oven with its contents on fire. Crews extinguished the fire and ventilated. Also responding were the Hamilton Township Police and Hamilton Township EMS. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
Hotel Fire in Mays Landing
On March 24, 2016, the volunteer fire companies of Mays Landing, Cologne and Laureldale responded to The Sandpiper Condominiums on Harding Highway for a structure fire. Mays Landing Chief Robert Hamilton arrived on location, established command. Mays Landing Tender 1819 was first in with the attack line, under the command of Captain Larry Birch with Firefighters Tristan Barry, Mark Jenigen and Rob Debiaso. They began attacking the fire, which had spread to the Division 2 exposure where firefighters found a mattress and air conditioner on fire. Mutual aid came from the Cardiff, Dorothy, Richland, Mizpah and Germania. EMS from Hamilton Township set up a rehab area. A total of six of the eight units evacuated were occupied, and two sustained fire damage. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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Lyndhurst Blaze Goes to 3 Alarms
On March 25, 2016, the Lyndhurst Fire Department responded to Stuyvesant Avenue for a reported structure fire. Unit 3200 arrived to heavy fire showing from D1, extending to D2, and called for a second alarm. Companies knocked down the fire on D1, but the fire traveled the walls to the upper floor and into the cockloft. Eventually companies went defensive and a third alarm was struck for additional manpower. Multiple master streams were set up to bring the fire under control. - Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
Quick Work in Evesham
On March 27, 2016, Evesham Township’s District 22 units were dis- on scene for a brief period to ventilate and check for extension. No patched to a reported electrical fire in the bathroom of a house on injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by Dave Hernandez Landings Drive. Chief 2230 and Engine 2231 arrived and remained
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A Bad Luck Vehicle The volunteer fire companies of Mays Landing and Laureldale responded on March 17, 2016, to Mays Landing-Somers Point Road for a report of a vehicle fire. Mays Landing Chief Robert Hamilton established command for a fully involved vehicle on the back of a roll-off flatbed tow truck. Previous to the fire, the vehicle was involved in a crash and the vehicle was being taken for repair when it caught fire. Mays Landing 1819 extinguished the fire using two preconnects. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
Camden House Fire On February 26, 2016, a dwelling fire was reported on the 1100 block of Louis Street. Battalion 1 arrived and reported a two-story middle-of-therow dwelling with heavy smoke showing. While companies were responding Communications advised units of possible entrapment. Command struck the all-hands box. The water supply was secured as the truck company opened up. Interior crews reported heavy fire conditions in the rear and a back-up line was stretched and placed into operation. Command confirmed all occupants were accounted for and out. - Fire News photo by Ted Aurig
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Mullica Township Shed Fire
The volunteer fire companies of Elwood, Nesco, Sweetwater, and Weekstown from the Mullica Township Fire Department in Atlantic County responded to Anna Drive on March 19, 2016. Elwood Chief Anthony Tomasco established command for a group of sheds, a camper, and a Jeep on fire. Command requested additional water tenders from neighboring Hammonton and Laureldale. Two LDH lines were laid from Wharton Park Boulevard and Anna Drive; one to the apparatus pumping on Anna Drive and one to the apparatus
pumping on Wharton Park Boulevard with the incoming water tenders off-loading at the intersection. The fire took an hour to bring under control and the cause was under investigation by the Mullica Township Police. Also responding were: Germania, South Egg Harbor (cascade unit), Egg Harbor City (covered Elwood), Lower Bank (covered Weekstown) , Green Bank (covered Sweetwater), Mullica Township Police and Atlantic Care Medics. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
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Orange 3-Alarmer
On March 9, 2016, Orange fire units responded to North Day Street in the city of Orange for the reported structure fire. Units arrived to heavy fire conditions on D1 and mutual aid was requested to the scene. As companies attempted an interior attack, the heavy fire conditions extended two D2 and the attic. A third alarm was struck and companies went to defensive operations. - Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
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Structure Fire Ignites Woodland The New Jersey Forest Fire Service along with mutual aid from Maurice River Township and the City of Estell Manor responded to Estell Manor Road on March 1, 2016, for a structure fire that spread to the woodlands. The Port Elizabeth Volunteer Fire Company set up a draft at Union Lake to fill water tenders. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Somers Point 2-Alarmer The City of Somers Point Volunteer Fire Companies #1 and #2 responded on February 1, 2016, to Cleveland Avenue off East Ocean Avenue for a report of a structure fire. Somers Point City Chief Mike Sweeney at the single-story, wood frame, single-family dwelling, which was fully involved. Command requested a second alarm and mutual aid from Scullville and Bargaintown to cover. One female occupant escaped from the structure with the assistance of a neighbor and was treated for smoke inhalation and transported to Shore Memorial Hospital. The Somers Point Ladies Auxiliary supplied for refreshments for the firefighters. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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Car Fire on the GSP Recently, the Bloomfield Fire Department responded to a fully-involved vehicle fire on the Garden State Parkway. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
Route 30 2-Car MVA The Germania Volunteer Fire Company along with Galloway Township Police and EMS in Atlantic County responded to the intersection of Route 30 at Cologne Avenue on February 28, 2016, for a two-car MVA. Units arrived to find the occupants of the vehicles injured but not entrapped. Firefighters and EMS removed the injured to waiting BLS and they were transported to ACMC Mainland Campus. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
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Rollover on Route 3 On March 6, 2016, Paterson Engine 5, Truck 2 an EMS 1 were dispatched to Route 3 westbound for a reported rollover. Units arrived to find an elderly male who was self extricated. EMS 1 transported the man to St. Joseph’s Regional Medical Center. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
Fatality on the GSP On March 22, 2016, Marmora Fire\Rescue and Upper Township responded for an MVA on the Garden State Parkway. Upon arrival, Assistant Chief Russell Barham, confirmed that the accident was a fatal. The New Jersey State Police Fatal Accident Unit was dispatched as well as the County Medical Examiner’s office. Crews remained on scene for approximately three hours until the Fatal Unit’s investigation was completed and then extricated the victim. - Fire News photo by Robert Macom
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Collapse at Millville 3-Alarm On February 6, 2016, the City of Millville Fire Department responded on to South 2nd Street for a report of a commercial structure fire at the Gil Bears Tavern. Engine 34 responded with a crew of four under the command of acting-Captain Tom Williams, Sr., who established command and reported heavy fire showing on the first floor of a three-story wood frame structure that housed a tavern on the ground floor and residential occupancies on the second and third. Deputy City of Millville Chief Larry Fawcett arrived, assumed command and requested a second alarm, bringing mutual aid from the City of Vineland, Rosenhayn, and Laurel Lake (coverage). As all hands were operating the structure collapsed and a PAR was ordered with all hands accounted for. Command ordered a third alarm struck bringing the Laurel Lake, Gouldtown, City of Vineland, Port Norris and Cumberland (coverage). During this incident, the cover-up companies responded to four other incidents. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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Burn Foundation Fundraiser 2016 Sweet 16 for Fire & Safety Services
The Keystone Firefighter Conference July 15-17, 2016
Sweet Sixteen? No, Fire and Safety Services, Ltd., of South Plainfield have been in business for over 50 years, but have supported the Burn Foundation and artist Joseph M. Getsinger for 16 years straight. Yes, back in 2001, President William Russell, of Fire and Safety Services, started the ball rolling with supporting the Burn Foundation and the artist. Now over the past several years his son David, now President, has picked up the ball to continue the great support to burn victims/survivors, the Burn Foundation and the artist. Getsinger has supported the Burn Foundation with his art for over 35 years. In this thirty-sixth year, the artist is still creating another image for them in hopes of breaking another record with raffle sales before and during the Fireman's Convention in Wildwood to be held September 16 and 17, 2016, to aid burn victims/survivors. This year's image is titled, “Enemy of Fire” which will depict a firefighter(s) approach to fighting the enemy, fire. Without giving too much away, we are sure it will be another winning image to aid the Burn Foundation. Aside from the #1 Giclee canvas print, framed and signed for first prize winner, there will be 25 additional signed and numbered prints given away from the raffle that occurs on Friday and Saturday of the convention. The raffle drawing will be on Saturday at approximately 1300. Convention spoiler alert. For those of you who were dedicated enough to read through this article, the artist will also give out additional prints after the winners are drawn with a special raffle afterwards. You may want to stick around during the drawing if you can, since you’ll have to be present to win these. We will continue to have collector pins created from this image, which will be available at the Burn Foundation booth for an additional $5 donation. If you’d like to make a donation to the Burn Foundation aside from the convention you can check out their website at: www.burnfoundation.org or contact them at 215-5453816. You can check out Fire & Safety Services website at: www.fss.com/. Check out Artist - Joseph M. Getsinger’s - new website at: www.jgetsingerarts.com.
We have lots in store for you again this year. Our training sessions start on Friday, July 15, 2016, at 0900 with a forcible entry seminar by the Traditions Training staff. Fire Ground Leadership for command and company officers commences at 1300 with Joe Pronesti and Chris Naun. The exhibit floor will be open from 1600 to 2100 and our keynote speaker, Mike Dugan, will speak at 1900. Antique fire apparatus will be on display in the exhibit hall, as well. Saturday starts at 0800 and continues until 1800 with training on a wide variety of scenarios presented by Tony Tricarico, Richard Ray, Jimmy Smith, the Traditions Training Group, Joe Pronesti and Chris Naun, and Bobby Halton and Mike Dalton. And we still have lots of other things going on for you to enjoy. New for 2016 will be our Junior Firefighter/Explorer competition sponsored by VFIS from 1100 to 1400. Bring your boys and girls out to see how they fair against other departments. From 1000 to 1400 we will have antique and modern apparatus on display in the parking lot all shined up and ready to be judged; we are offering over $2100 in prize money. Also, we have invited the Selden (NY) Fire Department Slowpokes Drill Team to display their Class B and C rigs, which they use for racing. On Sunday, July 17, the exhibit hall will be open from 0900 to 1400 with activities planned outside and inside. We will be having a chili cook off contest judged by Ray Cooney, chef of TV’s Firehouse Kitchen fame. Brink your best crockpot of chili to be judged by him and his staff. The winner of the contest will receive a $100 gift certificate donated by the Fire Store. Once again our friends from VFIS are sponsoring a fire apparatus rodeo. Bring a rig and see if you are the best on the course. Awards will be presented by VFIS for the winners. We hope that you can join us for the second year of the Keystone Firefighter Conference. We are sure that you will find enough to keep you busy, whether you join us for one day or all three. Please visit our website www.keystonefirefighterconference.com for more info; or contact Bob Romig via e-mail at bobrfire17@aol.com.
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Belleplain Forest/ Structure Fire On March 1, 2016, crews from the New Jersey Forest Fire Service Division C were dispatched by the Belleplain Forest Fire Observation Tower to smoke in the area of Estell Manor Road and Linden Street in Maurice River Township, Cumberland County. Upon arrival crews found an abandoned home along with a travel trailer and three storage trailers on fire on Begonia Road. The fire spread into the nearby forest, eventually consuming 73 acres along with the various trailers and the home. Three bulldozers, two water tenders, nine brush trucks, and a helicopter, along with the volunteer fire companies of Cumberland, Leesburg and Estell Manor assisted. - Fire News photos supplied
Nice Work at Evesham Brush Fire On March 9, 2016, Evesham Fire Rescue units were alerted to a possible brush fire in the Country Farms development. A caller reported seeing smoke in the rear of her residence and that she could hear people yelling for help. A second caller reported a fire by the pond that was rapidly growing. Engine 2211 arrived and reported an active fire over a half acre, and requested multiple brush units. After the NJ Forest Fire Service arrived, B1 determined they would back burn the area to eliminate a future hazard. Evesham Fire Rescue units assisted forestry with structural protection. No injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by Dave Hernandez
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Nutley St. Patrick’s Day Parade One March 5, 2016, members of the Nutley, Belleville and Jersey City Fire Departments took part in Nutley’s annual Saint Patrick's Day parade. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
W. Orange St. Patrick’s Parade On March 13, 2016, West Orange hosted its annual St. Patrick’s Day parade along Main Street. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
Linden Phillips 66 Donates $100G to FD Phillips 66 donated $100,000 to the Linden Fire Department for the installation of early warning equipment and upgrades to the Lower Road railway crossing. This funding came through the Phillips 66 Corporate Citizen Philanthropy Grant program. Nancy Sadlon, Phillips 66 Bayway Refinery Public Affairs Manager, and Mary Phillips, the Community Relations Coordinator for Phillips 66, presented the grant to Linden Mayor Derek Armstead. The funds will be used to install early warning equipment to notify the Linden Fire and Police Departments as to when a train is blocking Lower Road. This will allow for faster response time to this area of the City. The grant funds will also be used to make the improvements necessary to create a Quiet Zone for the Lower Road crossing. By establishing a Quiet Zone, the trains will no longer have to sound their whistle before crossing Lower Road. This quality of life issue for the 7th Ward residents has become a priority for Mayor Armstead and 7th Ward Councilmen Ralph Strano. (Bottom, left): Mayor Derek Armstead, Nancy Sadlon, Mary Phillips, Fire Chief Joe Dooley. - Fire News photos by Mathew Pribish
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NJFFS Div. C Meeting
The New Jersey State Forest Fire Service Division C District Wardens held their annual meeting at the Collings Lakes Volunteer Fire Company in Atlantic County on March 16, 2016. Some of the highlights included remarks from State Fire Warden William Edwards, who gave an overview of the 2015 fire season and the upcoming 2016 season; Division Forest Firewarden William Donnelly, who thanked everyone for their dedication and service along with a review of the 2015 season and the upcoming 2016 season; a certificate presented by Assistant Division Forest Firewarden
David Ackey to District Warden Donald Hundt from the Gloucester County Fire Chiefs Association for his assistance with cleaning up downed trees following a June 2015 storm; President of the Division C District Wardens, Brad Ruggeri who presented an update for the upcoming year; and Inga Parker, Ph.D., Science Communications Director of the North America Fire Science Exchange, who spoke on the major forest fires in the last 100 years in the State of New Jersey. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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So. Camden All-Hands On March 11, 2016, Camden Squad 7, Engine 1, Engine 10, Ladder 2, Ladder 1 and Battalion 1 were alerted for a house fire at 5th and Cherry Streets. Hook and Ladder 2 arrived and reported fire going throughout a two-story end-of-the-row and Battalion 1 placed all hands in service. The fire was held to the original unit and no injuries were reported. - Fire News photos by Dave Hernandez
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Winslow House Fire The Winslow Township Fire Department along with firefighters from the Borough of Berlin and Waterford Township were dispatched on February 28, 2016, to Third Avenue in the Borough of Chesilhurst for a structure fire. Winslow Engine 258 arrived and its crew stretched a line, along with the deputy, another firefighter and a Chesilhurst policeman, removed a crated dog. Firefighters removed two more dogs. Responding were Winslow, Berlin, Waterford, Winslow EMS, Chesilhurst Police and Atlantic City Electric. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
2 for 1 in Bargaintown The volunteer fire companies of Bargaintown and Cardiff responded on March 1, 2016 to Marigold Circle in the Village Grande at English Mill for a structure fire. Bargaintown Captain Roy Merrill arrived first and reported a light smoke condition. Bargaintown Chief Eugene Sharpe established command and and called for RIT from the City of Northfield. Engine 152 stretched two lines. The overhead door of the garage was opened, and the interior crew knocked down the fire. Also responding were the EHT Police, EHT EMS, South Jersey Gas Company, and the Atlantic City Electric Company. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
Hoboken Blaze Goes to 4 Alarms Late on February 13, 2016, with temperatures in the single digits and wind chills below zero, the Hoboken Fire Department responded to Washington Street for reports of a fire in a three-story brick attached on both sides with a store on the first floor and apartments above. Companies encountered heavy fire on the third floor in the rear and handlines were stretched. A third alarm was requested as fire extended into the cockloft of exposure B. With the fire now in two buildings command requested a fourth alarm and sounded the evacuation signal for exposure. Several firefighters were transported to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries ranging from falls to smoke inhalation and hypothermia. - Fire News photo by Peter Danzo
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Fire News, May 2016, Page 27
Tough Fight in Mantoloking
On February 27, 2016, the Mantoloking and Bay Head Fire Departments were dispatched to Channel Lane for a structure fire. Mantoloking Police reported a 2-1/2 story structure fully involved. Automatic mutual aid came from Point Pleasant Beach, Point Pleasant and all four Brick Township companies. On arrival, Point Pleasant Beach Engine 4201 and Tower 4305 attacked the fire with multiple handlines and set up two ladder operations. With additional companies arriving, additional lines were stretched to fight the fire and protect exposures as winds off the bay were pushing embers onto nearby
homes. A water drafting operation from the bay was established. Command ordered a collapse zone to be established as multiple sections of the structure started to collapse. Command placed the fire under control at the three-hour mark. Point Pleasant Beach and Point Pleasant Boro First Aid squads provided BLS and rehab. One Bay Head firefighter was transported for a minor injury. Mantoloking Fire Chief Larry Gilman suffered a heart attack on scene and was quickly transported to the local hospital, as well, and has since recovered and is doing well. - Fire News photo by Mike Nowacki
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Freehold Extrication Training
The Freehold Township Independent Fire Company, East Freehold Fire Company and the Freehold Fire Department, had the opportunity to cut up and practice on something larger than the average sedan or SUV at a recent training session. The firefighters worked on extricating from a bus, ostensibly full of students. The Durham Bus Company donated the school bus to practice and train on a scenario not frequently encountered. - Fire News photos by Craig Haas
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Fire News, May 2016, Page 29
14 Displaced at Clifton 2-Alarmer
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On the morning of December 17, 2015, Clifton firefighters responded to West 1st Street to find a two-alarm fire in the basement of a large three-story frame multi-family building. Heavy smoke was showing from the building as companies made an aggressive attack and quickly had the main body of fire knocked down. Although the basement suffered heavy damage, the remainder of the home, although left uninhabitable, suffered mostly smoke damage. The fire left 14 people displaced and three occupants were transported to the hospital with smoke inhalation. Companies from Paterson, Passaic and Montclair assisted. - Fire News photo by Peter Danzo
Cardiff MVA
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Call For A Demo On February 15, 2016, the volunteer fire companies of Cardiff and Bargaintown responded to Dogwood Avenue between Winnipeg and Alder Avenues for a report of an MVA with entrapment. Cardiff Chief Steven Sear arrived and established command for the single-vehicle crash with an SUV into an oak tree. Cardiff Assistant Chief Gilbert Zonge was operations and had first arriving Cardiff Engine 1512 go into service with their hydraulic tools for a door removal. The vehicle was stabilized and the door removed with a female occupant removed and transported. The cause of the crash is under investigation by EHT Police. Also responding were Bargaintown, EHT Ambulance Squad, Atlanticare Paramedics, EHT Police. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
CONTINENTAL FIRE & SAFETY, INC. 2740 Kuser Rd., Hamilton, NJ 08691
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Page 30, Fire News, May 2016
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Firehouse Kitchen By Ray Cooney
Yes, Those are Super Bowl Rings! Yes, those are real Super Bowl rings that I am wearing. I was invited to be a judge at Cooked and Uncorked, an unbelievable event held in Edison, New Jersey, at the Pine Manor — a top-of-the-line catering hall. It was a fire department fundraiser for the burn center at St. Barnabas Medical Center and featured over 40 of New Jersey’s finest restaurants, caterers and dessert shops, as well as various wineries and spirit companies. Twenty different firehouses also competed in this ultimate cook-off to see who had the best gourmet and/or firehouse cooking. Guests of the event were invited to sample all the fire department dishes and have a chance to submit a people’s choice. As for the judging, there were two panels: one for the gourmet section and the other for the firehouse cooking. After viewing Firehouse Kitchen, they immediately knew that the gourmet panel was not for me. Back to the rings. At my table, I started talking to a very fit gentleman about New Jersey. Anyone who knows me, knows that I am not a sports fanatic. I don’t know much about what player plays which sport for which team, etc. We struck up a conversation about the two things I knew about Jersey — Great Adventure and the old Haunted Mansion in Long Branch. This man never heard about the Haunted Mansion. “You’re from Jersey and you don’t know about the haunted mansion of Long Branch?” I said. “I’m not from Jersey,” he responded. “I only moved here when I was drafted to the Giants.” That’s when I found out this man I was talking to was famous Giant Bart Oates. Oates was an ironman on the offensive line and won two Super Bowls with the Giants. When he showed me his rings, I jokingly said that I would love to wear them and he graciously gave me the opportunity. The rest of the judges on this panel were a dynamite group of people and included John MacLean (NJ Devils), Mike Murphy (NY Giants) and Riley Cote (Philadelphia Flyers) to name a few. When the judging was done, the Paterson Fire Department was
declared the victor in the firehouse cooking event. The winning team was led by Captain Jason Macones and Firefighters Ken Jeltema, Mike Oates, Sean Duffy and Mike Payne. When I asked Captain Macones for the recipe, he said, “Ancient Paterson secret.” They made pork belly tacos with pineapple relish on a grilled flour tortilla. Everything was delicious. In my opinion, all the teams deserved a 10! One thing I must say about New Jersey firefighters is the pride they have in their departments is the same as what we have in New York. They treat each other, and firefighters from outside departments, like family. If you are not doing anything next February, look up “Cooked and Uncorked” to find out how you can attend this event. You will not regret it! To find out more about Firehouse Kitchen or how to become a sponsor, visit firehousekitchenshow.com.
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Fire News, May 2016, Page 31
Haworth Drills
On February 21, 2016, the Haworth Fire Department, along with Demarest and New Milford members, recently drilled on interior operations, roof vent and RIT team operations. - Fire News photos by Joe Fortunato
Page 32, Fire News, May 2016
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2016 FIRE NEWS OUTSTANDING LEADERSHIP AWARD TO BE PRESENTED AT FIREHOUSE EXPO
Fire News and Firehouse will continue their long-time partnership when Firehouse Expo moves to Nashville in October 2016. This year’s show will be held October 18 to 23, at the Music City Convention Center. Nominations for the 2016 Fire News Outstanding Leadership Award are now being accepted and will be awarded at this year’s show. This is the 14th year that Firehouse Expo is partnering with Fire News to pay tribute to an outstanding industry leader. In addition to being spotlighted at the show, the winner and one guest will each receive a complimentary three-day conference package to all educational sessions, the opening ceremony and keynote presentation, and admission to the exhibit hall where over 300 exhibitors will be displaying the latest products, services and technologies in the industry. The winner will also receive a three-night hotel stay. “These leaders have continued to give selflessly of themselves
by putting the needs of others first. They are representatives of the men and women of our nation that go the extra step to make a difference in the lives of others,” said Tim Edwards, Editor of Fire News. To nominate a fire, rescue or EMS professional for the 2016 Fire News Outstanding Leadership Award, download the form at http://bit.ly/1UYB1eE. Nominations must be received by September 15, 2016. Candidates (those within all ranks of the fire, rescue or EMS service) will exhibit strong leadership qualities, above and beyond the call of duty. Firehouse Expo will also be providing complimentary exhibit hall admission to all Fire News readers. Free exhibit hall admission includes three days of exhibits, the opening ceremony and keynote presentation. To obtain your free exhibit hall admission register now at http://bit.ly/1VIOUnX.
Demarest Trains The Demarest Fire Department recently conducted a drill on an acquired structure involving search and rescue, hose line placements, fire attack and venting. - Fire News photos by Chris ‘Doc’ Denton
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Fire News, May 2016, Page 33
Seaside Hts. Polar Bear Plunge Raises $1.7 Mil The annual Polar Bear Plunge in Seaside Heights was held February 20, 2016. There was a record setting turnout with over 6000 ‘plungers.’ This annual event is put on by law enforcement and the Law Enforcement Torch Run to raise money for the Special Olympics. This year $1.7 million dollars was raised. It was a beau-
tiful day with the temperature in the upper 50s and water temperature of 41 degrees. Safeguarding the plungers were members of the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Department, NJ State Police, Seaside Heights Fire Department, Seaside Park Fire Company and the Ocean Beach Fire Company. - Fire News photos by Craig Haas
Page 34, Fire News, May 2016
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Linden Training Center Dedicated to George J. Miller
March 21, 2016, marked the kicked off to the year-long celebration of the 100th Anniversary of the Linden Fire Department. The department dedicated the Linden Fire Department Training Center to the department’s very first training officer, Deputy Chief George J Miller. Deputy Chief Miller was the training officer from 19651969. His guidance, experience and knowledge helped shape and develop a, then young department, into what it is today. In attendance for the dedication was Marion his wife; Captain Tom Miller, his brother; and George’s five daughters and their families. The Training Center is a state-of-the-art classroom capable of handling
30 students. It will not only be used by the Linden Fire Department, but other other fire departments on the city, county, state and federal levels. Speaking were Deputy Chief and Chair of the 100 Year Celebration, Kevin Brady; department historian Lieutenant Brian Pericone; Linden Fire Chief Joseph Dooley; and on behalf of the Miller family, Deputy Chief Miller’s granddaughter, Lori Starr, who read a statement of thanks to the committee and the department for recognizing Deputy Chief Miller. - Fire News photos by Mathew Pribish
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Fire News, May 2016, Page 35
Up Close & Personal
The Greenwich Volunteer Fire Company in Cumberland County recently took delivery of a new engine and dedicated it to long time member Charles ‘Skip’ Powers. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Nutley Firefighter Ron Mosca at the scene of a three-alarm fire in Orange. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
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Newly promoted Lieutenant Jim O’Neill received the Firefighter of Year award at the Taunton Fire Company Installation Banquet on January 30, 2016. - Fire News photo by Dave Hernandez
City of Vineland Chief Robert Pagnani at a City of Millville third-alarm fire on February 6, 2016, on South Second Street. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
Page 36, Fire News, May 2016
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Up Close & Personal Glendola Fire Company members Justin Carlsen, CJ Murray, 2nd Lieutenant Dan Haberstick, and Vice President Dave Jacobs ride the back of the company’s 1989 Hahn engine in the Belmar St. Patrick’s Day parade. - Fire News photo by Mike Nowacki
The Atlantic City Fire Department participated in the annual St. Patrick’s Day parade on the Atlantic City Boardwalk on March 12, 2016. - Fire News photo by Holly Cherry Ocean City Deputy Chief Charles Bowman keeps the new Engine 1 wiped down after the training sessions on March 18, 2016. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
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Fire News, May 2016, Page 37
Up Close & Personal
Firefighter Ryan Keenan taking part in an SCBA confidence drill at the Taunton Fire Company. - Fire News photo by Dave Hernandez
At a Bogota Fire Department Hose 2 meeting Ed Reiper was presented with a plaque by Tony Culmone in recognition of 20 years of dedicated service to the department. - Fire News photo by E. J. Rode; BFD
Jersey City Captain Connie Zappella on scene of a three-alarm fire in sub-zero temperatures. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
Page 38, Fire News, May 2016
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Obituary
Hamilton’s Matthew Robison It is with deep regret the Township of Hamilton Fire Department announces the passing of Matthew Robison on March 15, 2016. Matthew was a lifetime member of the Weymouth Volunteer Fire Company Station 18-4 and a firefighter with the City of Vineland Fire Company #2. Services were held under grey skies on March 19, 2016, at the St. Vincent DePaul Church in Mays
Landing. Matt was also involved with the Hamilton Township EMS, Hamilton Township Dive Team, and the Dorothy Rescue Squad. Matt was well liked and his passing comes as a shock to all of his friends and colleagues. His funeral service was standing room only. He will truly be missed. - Fire News photos by Ken Badger