by Peter Danzo
In this issue...
House
Fire Hampered by
Solar Panels
The 2nd Battalion of Paterson Fire a responded to a house fire where solar panels hampered ventilation.
See story on page 4
Heavy Damage to Apartment Complex
River Edge Fire Department responded to an oven fire on Rutgers Place.
See story on page 7
Extensive Fire Damage to Home in Totowa
Totowa FD operated at a multiplealarm house fire with heavy fire in the rear of the home.
See story on page 10
2nd Floor Fire Injures 2
The Maywood Fire Department was alerted to reports of a house fire on Prospect Avenue.
See story on page 17
Street Dedicated to Robert ‘Bobby’ Hamilton
The Township of Hamilton Committee dedicated a street to First Responder Robert ‘Bobby’ Hamilton.
See story on page 25
Chief Dan Collins Honored by City of Estell Manor
He was honored in recognition of his lifetime of devotion to the Estell Manor community.
See story on page 29
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Reaching 17 States with 14 Editions
Long Island, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, Kentucky, Maryland, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, S. Carolina, Virginia, Washington DC, West Virginia, and Wildwood, NJ
Proud Member Of:
Official Publication of the NJ State Firemen’s Convention
Suicide Prevention Month
page 16
page 18 Up Close & Personal
Burn Foundation Annual Fundraiser
page 22
. page 28
On June 21, 2025, companies in the 2nd Battalion of the Paterson Fire Department were dispatched to Ridge Terrace for multiple calls reporting a fire. On arrival, Battalion 2 reported a working fire on the second floor of a 1-1/2 story private dwelling. Heavy fire was showing on the Charlie side of the home and broke through the roof in the rear. Solar panels on the roof hampered ventilation. One firefighter was transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
- Fire News photos by Peter Danzo
House Fire Fight Hampered by Solar Panels
E-Bike Battery Starts Bedroom Fire
An e-bike battery being charged inside a bedroom was determined to be the origin of a two-alarm blaze that damaged three homes in Hamilton Township, Mercer County, early on May 28, 2025. It was 0239 hours when Hamilton firefighters were sent to the 1400 block of Hamilton Avenue for a reported house fire with possible entrapment. First-due crews arrived to find heavy fire showing from a 21/2-story duplex and the B side of the 2-1/2-story two-family home next door. Only a narrow driveway separated the buildings. All onduty Hamilton companies (four engines, both trucks, Squad 10-1 and Rescue 10-1) immediately went to work. A second alarm was ordered by Battalion Chief Chris Mull, but Hamilton firefighters were able to knock down the bulk of the fire. Two residents and one firefighter were injured and were taken by EMS to area hospitals. Utilities were secured to both properties and the Red Cross was called out to assist displaced residents. After investigators identified the origin of the fire, Hamilton officials issued a press release with safety information about lithium-ion batteries.
- Fire News photos by Michael Ratcliffe
2 FFs Injured, 6 Cats Saved in Passaic
Passaic crews responded to Main Avenue for a three-alarm fire. At least two firefighters were transported to the hospital. Firefighters rescued six cats that were being revived by EMS and firefighters; several families were displaced by the blaze.
- Fire News photos by Ronald Bombaro, Michael Saggau & Peter Danzo
Mizpah Memorial Dedication to FF Natalie Dempsey
On June 28, 2025, the Township of Hamilton dedicated a memorial rain garden at the Mizpah Fire Station in honor of Firefighter Natalie Dempsey as a result of her sacrifice to the residents of Mizpah that she served.
Natalie lost her life while responding to a structure fire early on Christmas morning 2018. Natalie was recognized at the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) memorial weekend in 2019 where her name was placed amongst other firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting their communities.
The Township of Hamilton’s Mayor and committee made a promise to the Dempsey family and in true fashion with upholding the mission statement of the NFFF, which includes; “To honor and remember America’s fallen fire heroes; while providing a constant never-ending support for their families,” by providing this memorial in a local and safe place for those family members and friends to come, reflect and remember Natalie. The plaque reads: “Dedicated to Firefighter Natalie Dempsey who died in the line of duty while protecting the citizens of the Township of Hamilton. End of watch December 25, 2018”
- Fire News photos by Ken Badger
Heavy Damage to Apartment Complex in River Edge
At 0650 hours on July 5, 2025, with a strong start to the July month as the community events, training and fire calls begin, River Edge Fire Department responded to a reported oven fire on Rutgers Place. Upon arrival a heavy column of black smoke coming from the rear of the apartment complex and immediately transmitted the working fire assignment, bringing in mutual aid from New Milford, Oradell, Hackensack, Paramus, Dumont, Teaneck and Bergenfield. Crews made a fast, aggressive interior attack and quickly and effectively knocked down the fire preventing the fire from spreading and containing it to the kitchen area. Due to time of day and a holiday weekend the garden apartments was fully occupied and most residents were still in bed. One firefighter and an occupant were evaluated by Holy Name BLS. Chief Schlossberg praised the crews for their seasoned firefighters and well-trained members.
- Fire News photos by Chief Robert Schlossberg
Kitchen Fire Sends 2 to the Hospital
Hasbrouck Heights Fire Department responded to a call for a fire on Terrace Avenue on June 4, 2025. The first chief reported a heavy smoke condition and fire showing out a window on the first floor. A working fire assignment was requested which brought several mutual aid companies to the scene. The fire was located in the kitchen on the C/D corner first floor and was quickly knocked down. After opening up and checking for extension, the fire was placed under control in about 30 minutes.
- Fire News photos by Peter Danzo
Massive House Fire in Cardiff Calls for Multiple Back-Ups
Cardiff and Farmington fire departments were dispatched to Tudor Street on June 5, 2025 at 1418 hours, for a report of a structure fire. Farmington Assistant Chief Dennis Sharpe, observed a large column of smoke and requested two additional companies, Bargaintown and Station 24-2 from the Atlantic City Airport. A/C Sharpe established command and, along with Cardiff Safety Officer William Danz, Jr., both confirmed the fire in a single-story wood frame single-family dwelling. Cardiff Engine 1517 pulled several lines and Farmington Engine 1543 began supplying Engine 1512. Bargaintown firefighters took position next to Engine 1517 to
supply it with its tank water if needed. Command then requested the ladder from Scullville, and took position on the Delta side and put its main into service once all firefighters were removed. An RIT from Northfield stood by in front of the home, and with the additional companies, firefighters were able to be rotated. Egg Harbor Township EMS set up a rehab across the street, and the Cardiff Ladies Auxiliary kept firefighters hydrated. The fire took an hour to bring under control and was under investigation by the EHTFD Fire Official and EHT Police.
- Fire News photos by Ken Badger
Extensive Fire Damage to Home in Totowa
Totowa Fire Department operated at a multiplealarm house fire with heavy fire in the rear of a Scrivens Street home on June 13, 2025. Crews were able to minimize damage to nearby homes. The fire was under investigation.
- Fire News photos by Ronald Bombaro
FFs Injured and Families Displaced in July 4 Blaze
The Paterson Fire Depart-ment operated at a four-alarm fire on Southard Street on July 4, 2025. Two firefighters were injured and transported to the hospital and several families displaced.
- Fire News
photos by Ronald Bombaro and Michael Saggau
Westfield Celebrates 150th Anniversary
On June 21, 2025, the Westfield Fire Department held a parade through town to celebrate the Department’s 150th anniversary. Many surrounding towns, along with some from out of the area, participated in the parade along with marching and pipe bands.
- Fire News photos by Mark Rosetti
New Jersey State Firemen’s Association Update
As Vice President of the NJSFA, I am grateful to the Fire News for allowing us space in their publication to update our 52,000 + members.
It is again Caucus and Convention Preparation time. Please check the NJSFA website to see when and where your Caucus is being held. We have the opportunity to come together and discuss association business, first at the county level with the caucuses. Then again at the statewide level with the Convention. We will see our brother and sister firefighters whom we have possibly not seen since last year at this time. The Convention registration will open at 7:AM and close 11:AM both Friday and Saturday. The Memorial Service and All business will be conducted on Friday with State office positions elections, and resolution voting being held on Saturday. There will be Resolution questions on both sides of the Ballot so please be sure to flip the ballot over and fill in both sides.
Saturday afternoon at 2:pm the Five Mile Beach Firemen’s Association has their Memorial Parade. The Parade starts at Cresse and New Jersey Avenue in Wildwood Crest and proceeds down
New Jersey Ave. to 20th Avenue in North Wildwood. I would be remiss if I didn’t thank the Mayors and Council members of Wildwood Crest, Wildwood, and North Wildwood for their unwavering support with this parade. Police Manpower alone to ensure this event occurs safely is greatly appreciated. I also have to thank Parade Chairman Ed Beck who with his team puts together a great opportunity for the Firefighters to compete and have bragging rights at a Statewide Judging event. At the parade you will see everything from Vintage Fire Apparatus to the newest State-of-theart equipment. Various High School Marching Bands, Bagpipers, Most Firefighters in uniform, everything a great parade should have. Those Departments wishing to be judged should expect the winning trophies will be issued to those who were truly best in class. Judging is done by the New Jersey State Fire Chiefs Association. The Awards ceremony is held Saturday at the Convention Center starting at 8: PM. I wish everyone safe travels to and from all of our gatherings
JOSEPH T HANKINS
Vice President 1711 Routh 34 South Wall Township NJ 07727
Phone 732-798-8137
Email: JosephH@njsfa.com
Lifeline Keeps Fire and Rescue Professionals Jersey Strong, Because No One Fights Alone
September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness and support those facing struggles
Every day, New Jersey’s firefighters and emergency medical service (EMS) professionals put their lives on the line – responding to emergencies, witnessing tragedy and carrying the weight of what they see.
While they care for others, many are silently battling stress, trauma and mental health struggles of their own.
In September, we honor Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. It is a time to speak openly about those struggles and the importance of reaching out before it is too late. The New Jersey Fire and EMS Lifeline – established by law in 2021 and operated by active, retired or former firefighters, EMS providers and dispatchers – is here to help.
The reality:
• More firefighters and emergency medical technicians die by suicide than on duty incidents.
• In 2022, more than 240 first responders nationwide took their own lives.
In addition to raising awareness, Suicide Prevention Awareness Month is a time to break the stigma around mental health and support those affected by suicide. It began with the first World Suicide Prevention Day on Sept. 10, 2003, and has expanded into a national effort to promote hope, help and healing
This free, 24/7 support line is staffed by peers who understand the unique challenges of the job. Whether you're dealing with a difficult call, family stress, anxiety or thoughts of suicide, someone is here to help.
• Many suffer in silence because of stigma or fear of being misunderstood.
Behind every number is a name – a coworker, friend or loved one who needed help.
The lifeline provides:
• 24/7 peer support and mental health guidance
• Outreach education in resilience, suicide prevention and wellness
• Post-incident support includes defusing and debriefing
• Family support services are available for spouses, partners and children
You don’t have to carry the weight alone: Support is a phone call away – for responders and their families.
Reach out to the NJ Fire and EMS Lifeline, at 1-888-653-3367. It is available 24/7 to fire, EMS and dispatch personnel and their families.
2nd Floor Fire Sends 2 to Hospital
On May 12, 2025 at 0030 hours, the Maywood Fire Department was alerted to reports of a house fire on Prospect Avenue. On arrival, command reported visible fire on the first floor B/D corner of the 2-1/2 story frame dwelling and requested a second alarm bringing mutual aid from Hackensack, Rochelle Park and Paramus to the scene. All visible fire was knocked down in 30 minutes and the fire was brought under control in about an hour. Two occupants were transported to the hospital with nonlife-threatening injuries.
- Fire News photos by Peter Danzo
Egg Harbor Conducts Water Rescue Training
The Egg Harbor Township Fire Departments held a joint water rescue training on June 23, 2025, at Lakes Bay in West Atlantic City. The department held the exercise to prepare for the upcoming summer months. Several different watercrafts were used: flatbottom, rubber-hulled, and airboat. Several scenarios were performed: swimmer in distress, body recovery, rescuer deployment, and radio communications. Bargaintown Chief Gene Sharpe was in command, and Bargaintown Assistant Chief Wil Hancock was rescue operations. Boats from Bargaintown and Scullville were used for the training. The other training taking place was training on the Township's five-ton flood response vehicle.
- Fire News photos by Ken Badger
Cape May County Water Rescue Training
Dorothy Fire and Rescue, Richland Fire Company, and the Tuckahoe Fire Company from Cape May County held a joint water rescue drill in Lake Lenape in Mays Landing on June 25, 2025. Scenarios were performed for all three teams to familiarize themselves with each other’s strengths and equipment. Training was then held on water recovery and rescue swimmer deployment.
- Fire News photos by Ken and Cindy Badger
Fire Service Leaders Attends Gettysburg Battlefield Staff Ride
Recently, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) was pleased to host a group of fire service leaders from New Jersey and Pennsylvania who were participating over a weekend “Gettysburg Battlefield Staff Ride” being offered by the Sussex County (NJ) Fire Academy. NFFF Executive Director Victor Stagnaro hosted the group’s visit to the National Fire Academy. - Submitted by Kelly Gabliks
Up Close & Personal
Farmington Assistant
Chief Dennis Sharpe fills bottles at a job on Ridge Avenue on June 11, 2025, while Cardiff Captain J.J. Fricano takes a breather.
- Fire News photo by Ken Badger
The Atlantic County SWAT Team at the Egg Harbor Township DARE Day event on June 6, 2025. Thanks for participating!
- Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Call for Papers Now Open for the 2026 NJEPA Conference
September marks National Preparedness Month, a time to focus on strengthening our readiness, building resilience, and sharing lessons learned across all levels of emergency management. What better way to contribute to this mission than by submitting a presentation for the 2026 New Jersey Emergency Preparedness Association (NJEPA) Conference?
The Call for Papers officially opened on September 1st, and NJEPA is now accepting proposals for both training and breakout sessions for next year’s conference, scheduled for April 20–24, 2026 at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. Training sessions are scheduled Monday through Thursday and may range in length from 4 to 24 hours over the course of the week. Breakout sessions will be held on Wednesday and Thursday and are 75 minutes long.
Selected presenters will receive complimentary conference registration for up to three presenters per session. Each session is limited to a maximum of three presenters. All abstract submissions must include the presentation title (limited to 75 characters), a brief session description of no more than 100 words, and complete contact information for all presenters and co-presenters. A short biography (150 words or fewer), along with a professional headshot or agency logo, is also required. As part of the submission process, presenters will be asked to identify which conference track best suits their presentation topic. Available tracks include All Hazard, Domestic Preparedness, Health Care/Public Health, Policy and Planning, Response and Recovery, and Weather. If a track is not selected, the review committee will assign one based on the overall program.
Whether you’re a seasoned presenter or new to the conference scene, this is a great opportunity to contribute your insights and support the professional development of your peers across the emergency management spectrum. Please visit www.njepa.org for the submission link and additional details. We look forward to seeing your ideas and helping shape the 2026 NJEPA Conference into our strongest yet!
Chief of the Department Robert Schlossberg at the River Edge 125th Anniversary on the 4th of July and Grand Marshal and past Chief Stuart Heinzinger. Ex-Chief Heinzinger has served as Chief of Department in 1990-1991, as well as holding, many other positions within our department and is still very active today.
- Fire News photo by Chris Denton
New Jersey State Fire Museum and Fallen Firefighters Memorial
Serving as Vice President of the NJSFA has given me the opportunity to work with and be placed on the Board for the New Jersey State Fire Museum and Fallen Fighters Memorial. The Museum is a great keeper of fire service history and culture and allows the fire service to demonstrate it to the public.
The long-planned work to have a single location where all of New Jerseys fallen firefighters can be remembered is coming to fruition. The memorial committee has finalized plans for three bronze statues that will be placed in a Memorial Garden at the Museum site. Be sure to stop at the table in the Convention Center and take a look at the work being done to remember the states fallen Firefighters.
The museum continues to preserve artifacts that it has in its possession. A recent preservation project was the silk parade banner from Liberty Fire Company in Ocean City N.J. You can see the condition the museum received the silk banner in and what it looks like now after the preservation effort (See above photos). Be sure to stop by the museum display near the stairs as you walk into the convention center. I want to thank Campbell for supplying their continuing support to the museum both at the museum site and at the convention. They provide the museum with its location at the convention for the museum to have a display. Their commitment to history is commendable. Finally, the museum is always looking for volunteers. Join the family of current volunteers. Stop in any Saturday to enjoy the museum and speak with its staff. The museum is also always looking to increase its membership. This is an opportunity to provide some financial support to the museum without the requirement of any volunteer work. Thank you, Joseph Hankins, Board member.
Route 3 in Clifton Shut Down Car Rollover
Family Tradition
Surf City Firefighter/EMT Joseph P. Fortunato III (JP) holding his son Joseph P. Fortunato IV (JJ) on JJ’s first trip to the Surf City fire house. JP is a second-generation firefighter who followed in the footsteps of his father, retired volunteer firefighter Joseph P. Fortunato, Jr. It is the hopes of JP, that his son JJ follows in his footsteps to be a third-generation firefighter.
- Fire News photo courtesy of JP Fortunato
In Clifton a car rolls over and shuts down Route 3, near Route 21. No other details on the incident.
- Fire News photo by Michael Saggau
Street Dedicated to Robert ‘Bobby’ Hamilton
On June 15, 2025, the Township of Hamilton Committee in Atlantic County, by proclamation, dedicated a street to First Responder Robert ‘Bobby’ Hamilton as Robert Bobby Hamilton Way. Members of Bob’s family, as well as his extended families, the Mays Landing Fire Company, and the Township of Hamilton EMS, attended the event.
- Fire News photos by Ken Badger
Car Takes Down Pole
The volunteer fire companies of Farmington and Cardiff from the Egg Harbor Township Fire Department were dispatched to Washington and Gravesmith Avenues on July 19, 2025, for a report of an MVA with entrapment. Farmington firefighters arrived and found that the occupant had self-extricated and was in the care of EMS. Firefighters stood by until Atlantic Electric de-energized the scene and extinguished a fire on the utility pole. The cause of the crash was under investigation by the Egg Harbor Township police.
- Fire New photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Wildwood Training Offered
It’s almost that time of year again! Please join your New Jersey State Fire Chiefs Association for another outstanding training opportunity in Wildwood on Thursday morning September 11 th Registration in the Convention Center will begin at 0800.
This year’s program, presented by Safety and Survival and Battalion Chief Chris Santone, of Mt. Laurel Fire Department will focus on the important topic of Strategy & Tactics for Large Commercial Warehouse Fires. New Jersey has been inundated with these large warehouses with several serious fires here and around the United States resulting in often over-taxed resources, many stations responding, and both tactical and strategic errors made. We all may sometime have an
opportunity to respond to one of these massive events. Chief Santone will try to make us better prepared should we respond to and command or participate in one of these large-scale events.
These are very complex events posing significant challenges due to building size, fuel load, access limitations, delayed detection, and potential structural collapse. This training program will explore real-world case studies, fire behavior in these open and high-ceiling environments, pre-planning considerations, and coordinated multi-company operations. The course will emphasize the importance of early risk assessment, water supply management, command structure, ventilation tactics, and defensive vs. offensive decision-making in rapidly evolving fire conditions.
Boy Saved in Fire Visits Firehouse
On June 30, 2025, the Wanamassa Fire Company in Ocean Township was treated to a visit from a special little boy at the firehouse. Meet Gabriel. Gabriel is the child who was rescued by Fire Inspector Simons and Chief Pemberton at a horrific apartment fire in October 2024. Gabriel has spent seven months in various hospitals undergoing many surgeries and even more rehabilitation and therapy sessions. Although Gabriel was badly burned and has endured much more than any kid should have to, he found joy in running around the firehouse and playing on the fire trucks … and just being a kid. Gabriel’s dad couldn’t thank everyone enough for their efforts in the October fire, especially Fire Inspector Simons and Chief Pemberton. We’re glad Gabriel is doing better and is always welcome to come for a visit anytime he wants. Pictured is FI Simons with Gabriel. (Not pictured: Chief Pemberton.)
- Submitted by Chris Denton
This program is designed to enhance operational leadership through decisionmaking, reinforce incident command principles, and improve fireground outcomes through proactive planning and decisive tactical execution.
This is a great program that you don’t want to miss!
If you pre-pay your 2026 dues before Wildwood, the cost will only be $10 per attendee. If you haven’t paid your 2026 dues the cost will be $25. Non-members cost of the seminar will be $40.
Remember, all officers can join the association. Watch our social media outlets and webpage for registration information. See you in Wildwood!
- Courtesy of the Five Trumpet Journal
2-Car MVA on Atlantic City Expwy.
The Cardiff and Farmington fire departments responded to milepost 9 on the Atlantic City Expressway at 0200 hours on July 5, 2025, for the report of an MVA. Farmington Assistant Chief Dennis Sharpe and was advised by EHT dispatchers there were two vehicles off the highway with entrapment. Assistant Chief Sharpe arrived, established command, and upon assessing the scene was advised by New Jersey State Police there was no entrapment. Command advised the incoming Cardiff units to assist EMS with patient removal and to de-energize the vehicles. Cardiff firefighters assisted with the removal of five patients and stood by to assist the state police with lighting. The cause of the crash was under investigation. Also responding were Egg Harbor Township EMS and MICU paramedics. - Fire News photos by Dennis C. Sharpe
Celebrating 45 Years of Artistic Partnership 2025 Artwork
Title: ‘A HERO’S REACH’
In honor of the 45th year of his partnership with the Burn Foundation and its annual fundraiser at the New Jersey State Firefighters’ Convention in Wildwood, NJ, celebrated artist Joseph M. Getsinger has once again joined creative forces with 3D artist Jarryd Ley to produce the 2025 commemorative artwork, titled “A HERO’S REACH.”
This year’s image is a testament to the strength, compassion, and bravery of first responders. Building on the success of their previous collaboration, the piece reflects a fusion of traditional illustration and digital 3D artistry. Joe’s decades of experience and storytelling are enriched by Jarryd’s dynamic visual style and technical precision—resulting in a scene that is as emotionally resonant as it is visually impactful
“A HERO’S REACH” captures a defining moment of rescue, symbolizing the courage that drives firefighters into danger and the lives touched by their selflessness. The collaboration not only showcases artistic synergy across generations and mediums but also strengthens the ongoing mission of supporting burn survivors and raising awareness through powerful visual storytelling.
Together, Joe and Jarryd have created a piece that honors the past, reflects the present, and inspires continued appreciation for the heroes among us.
This year’s art project “A HERO’S REACH” is sponsored in full by David Russell, President, FIRE & SAFETY SERVICES Ltd., South Plainfield, N.J. ,and Pierce Manufacturing. David Russell and his father William Russell have supported the Burn Foundation and the Artist for over 25 years. David Russell has not only financed the printing of the limited-edition prints, the raffle tickets and again this year the limited edition“Collector Pin.”
With the aid of the Cinnaminson Fire Department (retired) Fire Chief William Kramer, Jr., current Fire Chief Philip Drangula and other members the photo shoot was completed. A special thanks to Cinnaminson Firefighter Joe Vazquez , Artist’s son Thomas Getsinger and grandson Maxwell Getsinger who posed with Joe Vasquez for this image.
The Burn Foundation was established in 1973 to provide fundraising for the emerging specialty for the treatment of burn injuries. The foundation was formed with the mission to aid burn patients, their families and the institutions that treat them. Over the years the four (4) regional Burn
Centers at Crozer Chester Medical Center, St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children, Temple University Hospital and Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, their patients, families, and staff, have all benefited from contributions raised at various events throughout the years. But none is more important than the annual NJ State Firefighters’ Convention in Wildwood, NJ. Joe Getsinger’s art has been a major influence in the foundation’s successful fundraising efforts in Wildwood since 1980.
Fort Nassau Graphics (www.fortnassaugraphics.com) located in West Deptford, NJ is the exclusive printer for artist Joseph Getsinger and have printed high quality limited edition prints, note cards and raffle tickets for the Burn Foundation’s annual fundraiser at the Wildwood Fireman’s Convention. Special thanks to President Brian Francis and the top-notch technical and press staff that help Joe produce reproductions of his original art through the years.
Premier Art and Frames owner Wil Edwards sponsored the fine art framing of the number one Giclee’ canvas print which will be the number one raffle prize for the Burn Foundation fundraiser. They are located at 162 S Broadway, Pitman, NJ 08071. Email: premierarts1@gmail.com Quality framing at very reasonable prices.
Burn Foundation 8600 West Chester Pike, Suite 202, Upper Darby, Pa. 19103 supports the greater Delaware Valley through education and support of five regional Burn Centers. You can donate online at: www.burnfoundation.or or call 215-545-3816. Special thanks to Administrator John McCann for his support and dedication through the years.
Other firefighter prints available at: jgetsingerarts.com
You can get the “A HERO’S REACH” Raffle Tickets and Collector Pins at the gates of the Convention tents, or at the Burn Foundation booth on stage. You’ll have a chance to win the 1st Prize framed and signed Giclee’ Canvas of “A HERO’S REACH” or one of 24 signed and numbered limited edition prints.
Resident Trapped Inside Burning House in Galloway
Galloway Township Fire Department responded to Park Avenue on July 19, 2025, for a report of a structure fire with a report of an entrapment. Galloway police arrived and reported an entrapment, quickly followed by a report from the Germania Assistant Chief of a working fire. Pomona Engine 2638 arrived and removed the entrapped occupant and turned them over to EMS who called for a medevac. An LZ was set up at a nearby ball field that was handled by the South Egg Harbor Fire Company. The fire was brought under control with 2638 along with Germania Engine 2626 and Tanker 2639. The fire was under investigation by Galloway Township Fire Investigation and Police. Also responding was Galloway EMS who set up a rehab station.
- Fire News photos by Dennis C. Sharpe
Chief Dan Collins Honored by City of Estell Manor
On July 1, 2025, "On behalf of the City of Estell Manor, New Jersey, the Mayor and City Council honored Chief Dan Collins of the Estell Manor Fire Department in recognition of his lifetime of devotion to the Estell Manor community. “Although individuals who selflessly serve others often neither seek nor receive the thanks of the public. We take this opportunity to express our sincere and grateful appreciation for his remarkable service and to offer our best wishes to him and his family.” Presented this Day by the City of Estell Manor 2025 City Council. Attending ceremony: Mayor Elizabeth Owens, Council President Nelson Dilg, Council Member Linda Givens, Council Member Thomas Maddox, and Council Member Christine Masker.
- Fire News photos by Ken Badger
Dave Austin, EMT LODD Honored by National Tree of Life
Egg Harbor Township EMT Dave Austin, who died in the line of duty in April, was honored on July 1, 2025, by having his name enshrined on the National Tree of Life. A short ceremony, hosted by Shore Memorial Hospital was attended by EMS, police, fire and local dignitaries. The memorial honors all EMS that died in the line of duty and will be enshrined in Arlington National Cemetery. This was the last stop on their way to Arlington and we are grateful for them to include Dave. - Fire News photos by Dennis C. Sharpe Clockwise from top left; Tree of Life, Chase Lott & Bailey, Group Picture, Dave Austin Memorial.
New Jersey FFS Designs and Builds Wildfire Trucks
The New Jersey Forest Fire Service (FFS) designs and builds its own wildfire trucks. The tried-and-true design enables these units to navigate through the forests while protecting both the vehicle and crew. This is a new unit just completed and being assigned to Section B6 in Burlington County. - Submitted by Kelly Gabliks
Medevac Takes 1 Passenger in a 2-Car Crash
The Swedesboro Fire Department in Gloucester County responded to milepost 10 on Route 295 on July 20, 2025, for a report of an MVA. First responders arrived and found a crash in the median. Both lanes of Route 295 were shut down while a Medevac was landed and one person was flown to a nearby hospital. The crash is under investigation by the New Jersey State Police.
- Fire News photos by Wm. McFarland, submitted by Dennis Sharpe
A rollover on Main Avenue and Oak Street in Passaic, in which one person The MVA happened on July 6, 2025 at 2400 hours.
- Fire News photos by Michael Saggau
