VOLUME 13, NO. 3
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Serving New Jersey's Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes AUGUST 2018
Full story on page 6 - Fire News photo by Peter Danzo
Get Ready for the NJ Firemen’s Convention September 14-15, 2018 – New Jersey Edition –
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Fire News, August 2018, Page 3
In this issue... Egg Harbor Township House Fire Cardiff, Bargaintown and others handle a fast moving house blaze. See story on page 11
Border Line 2-Alarmer Teaneck and Bergenfield firefighters tackle a house fire on their towns’ border line. See story on page 20
Rollover Central Clifton firefighters handle what becomes the third roll-over MVA of the week. See story on page 25
9 Injured in Tuckahoe MVA Two people are medevac’d and seven more transported in a Route 50 multi-car MVA. See story on page 28
Nice Stop by North Hudson Firefighters make a good stop on a Bergen house fire. See story on page 35
Obituary Cardiff’s Thomas Sweeny Atlantic County Firefighter’s Association Chaplain and Cardiff ex-Chief, Rev. Thomas Sweeny. See story on page 41
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 Announcements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 Special Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 32 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 34 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 36 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 40
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, 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.
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
Are You Organized? The alarm sounds and the dispatcher informs you that you have a reported structure fire with police at the scene stating that flames are visible. Your heart starts to race as you drop what you are doing to fill out the crew. You run to your gear rack and don your PPE as the truck is starting up. Your officer shouts at the slowpokes who seem to be dilly-dallying getting suited up. You barely make the truck, but regardless, you made it and are heading to what is now a confirmed working fire. The experienced responder stays calm and monitors his radio, keeping the volume down very low to prevent feedback, as the officer is listening intently to his orders as your truck nears the scene of the fire. Yes, you are going to work! As the truck stops and you carefully exit the crew cab, you get a sick feeling. Crap! I forgot my helmet. What! How do you forget your helmet? Do you know anyone this has happened to? Scenarios like the one I just cited happen. They happen because you may not be as organized as you think. I always encourage probationary firefighters to practice donning their gear. I also encourage them to give
thought about laying out their gear on their firehouse rack in a systematic way, so that each time they put their gear on, it is done exactly the same way. I am sure every one of you has a procedure that works for you. No matter what your job is, all of your turnout gear is necessary. You can’t forget your hood, gloves, helmet or other specialized equipment necessary to do your job. I have seen members don their SCBA while responding to a call and find out when they got off of the truck that their air bottle was empty. How did this happen? You checked it at truck maintenance and it was full. You turned your bottle on while responding to the call to check that you had a full bottle of air. What happened? Maybe you left your bottle on while responding to the call and in your haste; you accidently turned your purge valve, draining your bottle on the ride to the fire. Yes, it is embarrassing when you show up at a call and realize you forgot you helmet, lost a glove or had no air in your tank when you arrived. Now understand, what I cited doesn’t normally happen. But I will bet every responder
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STRATEGY & TACTICS: PRIVATE DWELLINGS
PRESENTED BY: Safety & Survival Training Date: Thursday September 13, 2018 Time: 0830 to 1130 Where: Convention Hall in the NJSFCA meeting room Credits: Division of Fire Credit is available Price: Members FREE, with preregistration Members at the door $20 Nonmembers $20 with preregistration Nonmember at the door $25 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Name: ____________________________________________________________ Address: __________________________________________________________ City:_______________________________ State:__________ Zip:____________ NJSFCA member #______________ Div. Fire Safety ID #__________________ Contact #___________________Email:_________________________________ Make check or money order payable to: New Jersey State Fire Chiefs Association Mail to: NJSFCA/co Ronald Stokes 245 Eagle Ave New Milford, NJ 07646Questions: Call Ron at 201-638-1690
knows of stories where members were not organized and had problems with equipment from one call to the next. Let’s face it, mistakes happen, especially when you are not a seasoned responder. What can you do to prevent careless mistakes? The answer is simple. Stay calm and be organized! Know what you have in each pocket of your gear and practice a strict routine for donning your gear. Gear-up the same way every time you respond to a call. Check your equipment after every call and before every shift. A strict routine that is practiced over and over is a must! -Dennis
H.R. 931: Firefighter Cancer Registry Act of 2018 Signed by President Trump H.R. 931, oroiginally sponsored by Rep. Chris Collins [R-NY27] requires the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to develop and maintain a registry to collect data regarding the incidence of cancer in firefighters. This bill authorizes $10 million for fiscal years 2018-2022 to carry out those activities. Firefighters may experience dsetrimental health effects due to smoke inhalation and other harmful substances. A 2015 study by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health found that firefighters in the US have a greater number of cancer diagnoses and cancer-related deaths. H.R. 931 seeks to establish and improve collection activities to collect a greater abundance of data and assist in developing new protocols and safeguards to protect firefighters. Co-sponsors of this bill including the following from New Jersey: Gottheimer, Josh [D-NJ5]; Lance, Leonard [R-NJ7]; LoBiondo, Frank [R-NJ2]; Norcross, Donald [D-NJ1]; Pascrell, Bill [D-NJ9]; Payne, Donald [D-NJ10]; Sires, Albio [DNJ8]; Smith, Christopher "Chris" [R-NJ4]; Watson Coleman, Bonnie [D-NJ12]; MacArthur, Tom [R-NJ3; Frelinghuysen, Rodney [R-NJ11].
Page 6, Fire News, August 2018
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Cover Story
Saves and More at Edgewater Gas-Fed Fire
On April 9, 2018, the Edgewater Fire Department responded to Old River Road for a fire. Companies were met with heavy fire on the first-floor rear of the large ordinary constructed building which housed an auto repair shop and a dance studio on the second floor. Prior to the arrival of the fire department several police officers and civilians rescued several women and children who were trapped on the second floor via ladder with some even jumping into the arms of the rescuers as heavy fire vented behind them. A second alarm was requested by the first arriving units as well as an urgent request for numerous ambulances due to an unknown number of injuries. A third alarm followed. Numerous handlines were stretched into the
building with heavy fire showing from both floors in the rear and companies reporting a large brush/woods fire in the rear extending up the cliff toward apartment buildings on Gorge Road in Cliffside Park. All CPFD units not committed to the original fire were directed to respond to Gorge Road and to protect the exposures. Interior crews reported a gas-fed fire in the kitchen area and other crews reported heavy fire in the cockloft, at which time command ordered an evacuation and requested the gas company to respond with a rush. Four ladder pipes and numerous outside handlines were put into operation on the stubborn fire. Ten to 15 injuries were reported, all non-life threatening. - Fire News photo by Peter Danzo
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Backyard Boat Fire
Egg Harbor Trains
On June 14, 2018, Wayne Fire Department Companies 1, 2 and 5 were dispatched to Alps Road for a boat fire at the rear of the home. Chief 1 arrived and requested Engine 1-1 to nose into the driveway and stretch a line into the rear yard as the boat was threatening multiple exposures. Engine 1-1 and 2-1 simultaneously arrived and were able to quickly knock down the fire, which had extended to a nearby shed and fence. A resident was checked by EMS but refused medical attention. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
The Egg Harbor Township Fire Department and Atlantic County Technical Rescue Team took advantage of a nice late spring night to drill at the Canale Fire Training Center. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
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Totowa Excavator Fire
On April 19, 2018, the Totowa Fire Department was dispatched to a construction site on Union Boulevard for a reported construction machine on fire. Unit 970 advised incoming units of extremely muddy conditions in the rear of the property. The first-due engine was able to make an attack on the fire but was making no progress
by the time it emptied its tank. Command made the decision to let some of the excess fuel and hydraulic fluid burn off before continuing the attack. Two West Paterson engines arrived to shuttle water, and the fire was eventually stopped - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
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Egg Harbor House Fire The volunteer fire companies of Cardiff and Bargaintown responded to Alder Avenue on May 2, 2018, for a structure fire. Cardiff Chief Gil Zonge arrived and established command for a single-family, occupied, wood frame dwelling and requested a FAST from the City of Somers Point. Command had first-due Cardiff Engine 1512 pull into the horseshoe-shaped driveway and stretch a line in the front door while a second line was stretched to the D/C side. Bargaintown Tender 1528 backed in and began supplying Engine 1512. Command then requested water tenders from Scullville and Mays Landing, and then requested a second alarm bringing the remaining EHT companies of Farmington and West Atlantic City. The fire broke through the roof which prompted command to pull everybody out and go defensive. Cardiff Tower 15 went into operation as well as multiple handlines and Blitz guns. Crews poured water onto the fire until it was knocked down and an interior operation resumed. The cause of the fire was under investigation by the EHT Fire Official, and no injuries were reported. Also responding were Cologne (cover), Northfield (cover), Farmington (cover), Linwood (cover), EHT Ambulance, EHT Police, Ladies Auxiliary from Cardiff, Bargaintown,and Scullville, Atlantic City Electric and the American Red Cross. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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Galloway Structure Fire
The volunteer fire companies of Pomona, Bayview and Germania discovered the fire and radioed it in. Firefighters worked for severresponded to West White Horse Pike on May 25, 2018, for a struc- al hours to extinguish the fire. Also assisting were Galloway ture fire. Galloway police officers, investigating a burglar alarm Township EMS and police. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
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Route 50 Fire in Seaville
On May 18, 2018, Central received a call from a passerby that there was a large amount of smoke coming from the back of a house across on Route 50 in the Seaville section of Upper Township. Central dispatched Seaville, Marmora, Tuckahoe and Upper Township Rescue. Upon units’ arrival, a large amount of smoke and flames exiting the rear of the building was discovered, but crews were uncertain if anyone was inside. Units had the fire knocked down in less than an hour and it was confirmed that the building was unoccupied. Crews worked for more than four hours overhauling the charred remains. Also responding were Atlantic Electric, South Jersey Gas, New Jersey State Police, and the Cape May County Fire Marshall’s Office. - Fire News photo by Robert Macom
Hackensack Electrical Fire
On the morning of April 15, 2018, the Hackensack Fire Dept dispatched a first alarm for Fairmount Avenue for a house fire. Engine 5 reported visible flames near the roof line on the A/D corner of the private dwelling on arrival. As companies gained entry into the home they found that the majority of the fire was contained to the exterior wall in the area of the electrical service. Two handlines were stretched, one to the interior and one to the exterior, and the fire was quickly extinguished with minimal damage. - Fire News photo by Peter Danzo
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Home Energized in Maywood
As a line of severe weather was moving through the area with high winds, lightning and torrential rain on May 15, 2018, the Maywood Fire Department was dispatched to Grove Avenue for a reported utility pole down on a house. Upon arrival, companies found a large tree had taken down two utility poles and wires, one of which had come to rest on the roof of a house. Smoke was showing from the attic and a working fire was declared by Chief Chris Tuttle. A noninsulated primary electrical wire was laying across the roof and
contacting the gutter which sparked the fire and energized the home. Companies were forced to stand by and await the power company. As the smoke condition became heavier with flames visible from the roof on the A/B corner a second alarm was transmitted. After evaluating the scene, it was determined that crews could safely enter the home, at which time two handlines were stretched to the second floor, and were able to knock down the bulk of the fire. - Fire News photo by Peter Danzo
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Carter Handles Route 535 Fire
On April 29, 2018, the Carter Fire Department was dispatched to Woodbridge and Perth Amboy. The fire was quickly placed under Route 535 for a fire. On arrival, crews struck a second alarm while control as it was held to one apartment and contained by the sprin- Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti recalling all off-duty members. Mutual aid came from Sayerville, kler system.
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Pinball MVA, Fuel Spill
The volunteer fire companies of Cologne and Laureldale responded on May 24, 2018, to Cologne Avenue for an MVA. Firefighters arrived to find a tractor trailer and a passenger vehicle accident with no entrapment. The tractor trailer was heading south on Cologne Avenue struck the rear of the passenger vehicle, then
struck a utility pole, veered off the road, struck a large oak tree and severed both saddle tanks, losing a large amount of fuel. The Atlantic County Hazmat Team responded to the scene. Also responding was the Township of Hamilton EMS. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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Teaneck, Bergenfield Respond for 2-Alarmer
On May 6, 2018, Bergenfield firefighters were dispatched to Trinity Court for a house fire. The home was located only a few doors down from the Teaneck border and that department was also dispatched for reports of smoke in the area. Teaneck arrived first and reported a working fire, quickly followed by Chief Naylis who confirmed the
report. Both departments went to work and simultaneously requested second alarms. The fire was located in the attic of a 2-1/2 story frame dwelling. Two lines were stretched and the fire was quickly knocked down and placed under control. - Fire News photo by Peter Danzo
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Take the RIP Out of Rip Current Last year, 2017, was the deadliest year for rip currents — strong, usually narrow, strips of water flowing out from the beach — in New Jersey’s history. And 2018 storm season and rocky oceanic conditions are already off to an early start. So, what does this mean for beach safety this summer? It means beachgoers need an education about rip currents. Check Water Conditions Before going to the beach, you should always check your local shorecast. In addition to the major weather channels in your area, you can review the most current weather from the National Weather Service (NWS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Know How to Swim Out of a Rip Current • Don't swim back to shore directly in the current! • Swim out of it in a direction that follows the shoreline until you are clear from the current, then swim back to the shore. • If you can't escape the current, float or tread water until the current stops. The current will slow down naturally past the waves. You will NOT be swept out to sea. Swim back to shore on a diagonal once you are clear from it. • If you are still unable to reach the shore, wave your arms and call for help.
ALWAYS Swim on Beaches with a Lifeguard If you are travelling to a new area and do not know the beaches, it is imperative that you choose a beach with a team of lifeguards and swim near them. They are not only trained in water safety, but they are also trained to assist swimmers in a variety of life threatening situations, including being caught in a rip tide. Heed their warnings to stay in certain swimming zones, and pay attention to green, yellow and red flags that may be posted on your beach for your safety. Rip currents can develop fast and on a clear and sunny day. They are not just driven by inclement weather. Know How to Spot a Rip Current Even many lifelong beach goers do not know how to spot a rip current. Rip currents look like a break in the pattern of incoming waves or a channel of churning, choppy water. Sometimes you will see an area with a noticeably different water color or a line of foam, seaweed or debris moving steadily out to sea. Rip currents can occur at any beach with breaking waves, including lakes as large as the Great Lakes, and most often form at low spots or breaks in sandbars and near structures like piers or jetties. Know How to Swim Out of a Rip Current Contrary to popular belief, if you are caught in a rip current, you can swim to safety by following these expert tips: • Don’t swim back to shore directly into the current! • Swim out of it in a direction that follows the shoreline until you are clear from the current, then swim back to the shore. • If you can’t escape the current, float or tread water until the current stops. The current will slow down naturally past the waves. You will NOT be swept out to sea. Swim back to shore on a diagonal once you are clear from it. • If you are still unable to reach the shore, wave your arms and call for help. According to the United States Lifesaving Association, rip currents do not pull people under the water — they pull people away from shore. Drowning deaths occur when people panic. They become scared and exhaust themselves so that they are unable to keep themselves afloat and swim to shore. Weak swimmers are especially susceptible, but advanced swimmers may panic, also. For more information, visit www.weather.gov/safety/ripcurrent.
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Glen Ridge Rollover
On May 9, 2018, Montclair Fire Engines 1 and 2 and Truck 2 stretched a precautionary line as the victim was removed and handresponded to Glen Ridge on Ridgewood Avenue for a MVA with ed over to Glen Ridge EMS who transported the person to St. entrapment. One vehicle ended up on a front lawn of a residence, Joseph’s Medical Center in Paterson. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti which required one occupant to be removed from the car. Engine 2
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Flanders Road Car Fire
On May 29, 2018, Budd Lake and Flanders Fire Departments were the fire as Rescue 97 arrived and assisted. The fire was extinguished - Fire News photo by Kevin J. Maloney dispatched to a car fire on Flanders Road. Engine 59 was first-due within 20 minutes. and stretched their front bumper line and started to knock down
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Allamuchy 2-Alarmer
On June 1, 2018, as fire departments from Warren, Sussex and Morris counties joined together to mourn the loss of a fellow firefighter, tones starting dropping for a house fire on Oakcrest Drive in Allamuchy Township. Units arrived to smoke coming from the second floor and rear of the house. A box was struck, bringing Hackettstown, Budd Lake and Green Township companies, followed by a tender task force. Units stretched lines in but were met with worsening conditions, which lead to a defensive attack with master streams. The demand for more water sent a request for a second alarm. A second tender task force, as well as cover assignments and manpower responded. - Fire News photos by Kevin J. Maloney and the Allamuchy FD
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Rollover Central
On May 23, 2018, the Clifton Fire Department — yet again — stop sign resulting in an SUV rolling over. While units were on responded to a rollover at a two-car MVA on Union Avenue. One scene of this accident, a second rollover was reported across town vehicle had rolled on its side but all occupants were able to self - - the third in one week. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti extricate and were evaluated by EMS. It appeared one car ran a
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Collapse at Byram House Fire
On June 4, 2018, the Byram Fire Department was dispatched to Rosemarie Lane for a structure fire. Byram Chief 1 asked for a second alarm and additional tenders to the scene. Engine 1, stretched two lines and began the attack, as Engines 6 and 4 arrived and stretched a fourth line. At this point the first and second floors collapsed internally. A collapse zone was set up as crews continued to put water on the structure.
With pockets of fire under the collapsed floors an excavator was brought in to tear down the house to extinguish the fire. There were no injuries reported and the fire was under investigation by the Byram Police Department, Sussex County Fire Marshal’s Office and the Sussex County Prosecutors Office. - Fire News photo by Kevin J. Maloney
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Barricaded in Basement Fire in Clifton
On June 14, 2018, Clifton Fire Platoon 2 responded to a large 2-1/2 story residence fire near Station 3. Police reported a person possibly trapped. Upon entry into the basement the crew from Ladder 3 located and removed a victim who was later found to have barricaded himself inside prior to setting the fire. The fire was slowed from
advancing thanks to a small sprinkler system in the basement. A second alarm was struck bringing Nutley, Bloomfield, Passaic and Montclair to the scene to assist with overhaul. The man was transported to St. Joseph’s Regional Medical Center. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
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9 Injured 2 Medevac’d in Tuckahoe MVA
On July 1, 2018, Central Dispatch received a call reporting a serious MVA with multiple people injured on Route 50 and Main Street in the Tuckahoe section of Upper Township. Tuckahoe Chief Ed Carter requested two helicopters and the diversion of all traffic off of Route 50. Marmora Fire Rescue was called to assist with the LZ due to the labor-intensive operation of extricating the occupants.
There were four adults and five children injured and being attended to by five BLS units from Upper Township Rescue and Belleplain Rescue, as well as three ALS units from Atlanticare. The two helicopters were from the New Jersey State Police. - Fire News photo by Robert Macom
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Fire News, August 2018, Page 29
Looking Back
Matawan Township Fire in Monmouth County 1933. The apparatus might be a Seagrave but the accompanying title states it is a Schacht. - Fire News photo from the Dennis C. Sharpe collection
June 1971- the Jersey City Canteen Fire Buffs Gong Club at a two-alarm fire. - Fire News photo by Bob Bartosz
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Forest, Debris, Houses on Fire On May 8, 2018, the McKeetown Forest Fire Observation Tower in Egg Harbor Township spotted smoke and got a cross reading from the Belleplain Fire Tower. The fire crossed at the end of Fernwood Avenue in the Bargaintown section. Mckeetown Tower dispatched New Jersey Forest Fire Service units C-7 under the command of Will Hancock and C-37 under the command of Jared Holliday. C-37 arrived and reported a building, debris, and wildlands on fire. Bargaintown Safety Officer Ken Badger, Sr., established command, and reported one building and a lot of debris and wildlands on fire. A FAST was requested from the City of Northfield. Bargaintown Tender 1528, under the command of Captain Jason Rouse, stretched a line onto the burning building. A second building was on fire and a water tender from Scullville was requested. Cardiff firefighters stretched a line to the interior of the second building, knocking down the fire. NJFFS Section Warden John Sanford directed operations for the forest fire service and had a tractor-and-plow unit put a plow line around the fire aiding extinguishment. - Fire News photos by Ken Badger
Nice Stop in Teaneck On April 23, 2018, the Teaneck Fire Department responded to Teaneck Road for reports of smoke and flames from the roof of a private dwelling. Companies found smoke pushing from the attic of a single-story section of a two-story frame. Two handlines were stretched into the home as the truck opened the roof. The fire, which was contained to the attic area above the kitchen, was quickly knocked down and the fire was placed under control in less than 30 minutes. Hackensack L-1 responded as RIT. The home was able to remain occupied by the family and the cause was determined to be electrical. - Fire News photo by Peter Danzo
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Firehouse Kitchen
Coming for You, Fire Marshals! By Ray Cooney Oh yes! The time has come for the 5th Annual Big Chili/Chowder Cook-off held at the Bayport Fire Department, in Long Island, New York. This year, the event will be held on September 8, 2018. Admission begins at noon. This event will be a country themed event with musical entertainment provided by Southbound as well as line dancing instructions for all those interested. The reason I am writing about this event is because I help the Bayport Fire Department prepare their chili. The first year of the event, we took first place! Since then, our crown has been stolen, year after year, by the Islip Town Fire Marshalls. This has become a rivalry between us and them since it first occurred. I don't want to mention any names, so we will just call the head marshal Fire Marshal Bill, from West Sayville Fire Department. For the past four years, we have been creating you-tube videos talking “smack” to each other about whose chili will be the best. Last year, Bayport’s chili won the people’s choice award, but could not take home the judges award. We made a bacon-zesty chili. Since this was not a winning recipe, we are going to change it up this year. We are going to make a three-bean steak chili and are only going to use rib-eye steak.
Let’s see if the marshals can top that! One good thing about this chili, is we are avoiding making it too spicy. It will have just enough kick to keep you warm in the winter and doesn’t make you going running for bread and water. The rivalry between the two groups is all in good fun and for a great cause. The event raises money for the Islip Town Fire Museum, located directly outside Duck’s Stadium in Central Islip. If you have some free time on September 8, 2018, be sure to stop on down at the Bayport Fire Department where you can enjoy chili, chowder, craft beer, live entertainment and the one and only Firefighter Ray as the MC of the event. Activities and pizza for children will be provided free of charge! Special thanks to Fire News, Georgi Vodka, Spyder Bite Brewery, Blue Point Brewery, Stop and Shop, DiCarlo Foods, Werner Breads, Tony’s Pizza of Bayport, Satellite Pizza of Bayport, and Furci’s Pizza of Bayport, Sayville Pizza, the Bayport Fire Department and of course Firehouse Kitchen for all their support. To find out more about Firehouse Kitchen, visit firehousekitchenshow.com. If you would like your firehouse to compete in this year’s Chili/Chowder fest, or to appear on Firehouse Kitchen, send an e-mail to firehouse kitchentv@gmail.com.
Three-Bean Chili Red, white, and black chili beans (approximately two cans each) 2 pounds of chopped rib-eye steak, 1 can tomato paste, 3 cans of crushed tomatoes, ¼ cup chili powder, 1 cup chopped onion, 3 cloves of chopped garlic, 1 red jalepeno pepper (chopped) salt, pepper, garlic powder Brown rib-eye steak in frying pan. Then combine all ingredients in large sauce pot. Bring to boil for one minute, then lower temperature to simmer and cook for three hours or longer. The longer the better.
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Long, Hard Day for Montclair
On June 2, 2018, the Montclair Fire Department was dispatched to Walnut Street for a house fire. On arrival, heavy fire was venting from the second floor of a 2-1/2 wood frame and a second alarm was struck. Mutual aid came from Bloomfield, West Orange, Clifton and Cedar Grove. Truck 2 responded directly from the scene of a
four-alarmer in East Orange where they’d worked for four hours. Crews made quick work of the fire with an interior attack and the crew from Truck 1 vented the roof. The fire was placed under control within a half hour. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
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Fire News is the Official Newspaper of the 2018 New Jersey Fire Expo and New Jersey Firemen's Convention in Wildwood, NJ The Five Mile Beach Volunteer Firemen’s Association, the host of New Jersey State Firemen’s Convention and one of the largest fire expositions on the East Coast, the New Jersey Fire Expo™ is proud to announce that Fire News, a Northeast Regional leader in reporting fire related news in 7 states; by publishing six state and regional newspapers will be the Official Newspaper of the New Jersey Fire Expo™ and the New Jersey Firemen’s Convention. 2018 marks the sixth consecutive year that Fire News has been the official newspaper of the Convention and Expo held in September of each year. As always, this is the largest fund raiser for the FMBVFA each year. Five Mile Beach VFA President Dave Thompson remarked, “We are happy to continue our fundraising partnership with Fire News. As this marks the sixth year working together we look forward to another successful year with Fire News. I view this relationship as a win-win for both organizations.” The Official Newspaper publishes information about the events of the convention and exposition, including a map of the vendors. The newspaper will also feature local advertising to help convention goers take advantage of the many opportunities available in the Wildwood’s. The New Jersey State Firemen’s Convention Edition will be distributed free of charge to all attendees at the convention and the fire expo and to all attendees as they enter the fire expo area. The Five Mile Beach Volunteer Firemen’s Association would like to especially thank Frank Trotta, Publisher, and Tim Edwards, Vice President/Executive Editor of Fire News, for their cooperation in settling this agreement in a timely manner. Fire News is celebrating their 45th year in publishing their newspaper, and we congratulate them and look forward to a long working relationship. Further information can be obtained at www.njfireexpo.com or www.firenews.com.
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Commercial Fire in Ridgefield Park On May 7, 2018, Ridgefield Park firefighters arrived at an industrial complex on Bergen Turnpike to heavy smoke showing from the large one-story building which housed a printing company. Shortly after, command requested a second alarm with a third alarm for coverage. Several handlines were stretched and crews found heavy fire involving a large piece of printing machinery, as well as some of the chemical and inks in the area. The fire was contained to the printing machine and the general area around it. Mutual aid companies came from Hackensack, Bogota, Little Ferry and Teaneck. - Fire News photo by Peter Danzo
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Nice Save by North Hudson On April 23, 2018, the North Hudson Regional Fire Rescue Department was dispatched to Columbia Avenue in North Bergen for multiple calls of a house fire. Engine 1 arrived to heavy smoke and fire in the alleyway between two 1-1/2 story residential frames and struck a second alarm. Crews entered both structures and were able to knock down the exterior fire while containing the extension on the interior. Crews conducted extensive overhaul in both buildings while companies from Hoboken and Jersey City provided coverage. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
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JUST ANNOUNCED … 150 EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS AT FIREHOUSE EXPO Firehouse Expo just announced its educational lineup for this year’s event. This is the third year Firehouse Expo will be held in Nashville, TN, and it will bigger and better than ever. 2018 highlights include: • More than 150 educational sessions that will challenge you to think differently and learn new techniques with more one-on-one time with influential leaders • More individualized training • Great opportunity for personal contact with peers and solution providers • All new Unmanned Aircraft Systems and Technology track to introduce these new products to you and keep you updated on the newest technology to help you fight fires • Company & Chief Officer Development Training where you can share best practices with fellow leaders, empower your staff
through education and secure your department’s future through a focus on operations on safety protocols. • Skill-focused scenario-based hands-on training (HOT) programs with a better student-to-instructor ratio than any other national or state event • -Live-Fire Engine and Truck Operations programs so you can learn the skills in detail before you need to put them to the test • Firefighter Health & Wellness track to help you improve your fireground performance Registration is now open. For details, visit FirehouseExpo.com. Early-bird savings of up to $120 off the full conference are good through Aug. 15. For Fire News readers, enter promo code FIRENEW for an additional $50 savings off of the full conference (published rates) and enjoy FREE exhibit hall admission.
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Realistic Demo on DUI, Texting
The 2018 Egg Harbor Township High School mock crash was held on the high school grounds on May 10, 2018, to demonstrate the hazards of drinking and driving, and inattentive driving. The scenario was a head-on MVA resulting in entrapment with the occupants needing to be extricated by firefighters from the Egg Harbor Township Fire Department and then transported by the Egg Harbor Township Ambulance Squad while being treated by para-
medics from Atlanticare. One person was declared DOA by members of the NJDCJ Medical Examiner’s Office and transported from the scene in a hearse provided by Adams-Perfect Funeral Home. To hammer home the seriousness of the offense, the EHT Police field tested for sobriety and then arrested the driver. - Fire News photo by Ken Badger
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Canale Scholarships Awarded
The Egg Harbor Township Fire Department awarded their 2018 Anthony ‘Tony’ Canale Scholarships on June 6, 2018 at the Atlantic County Institute of Technology and the Egg Harbor Township High School. The scholarships were awarded by EHTFD President Wallace Bakely, Chief of the West Atlantic City Volunteer Fire
Company, to ACIT Student Steven Prisament, son of Scullville Volunter Fire Company #3 Chief Steve Prisament. The Egg Harbor Township High School students that were awarded scholarships were Amber Devine and Hannah Cure (not pictured). A total of $1500 in scholarships was awarded. - Fire News photos by Wallace Bakely
Yates Elected President of IAFC Eastern Div. From April 20 to 22, 2018, the Eastern Division of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (EDIAFC) held its annual meeting and conference at the Baltimore/Washington Airport. The EDIAFC represents; Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Washington, DC to the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC). During the business meeting on Friday, New Jersey Chief James Yates EFO, CFO, Director of Fire & Emergency Services in West Windsor and a past-Chief and life member of Lawrence Road Fire Company was elected President. In his remarks at the installation dinner on Saturday, President Yates thanked outgoing President Paul Sterling of Maryland for his service and noted that his term would include stressing the importance of the IAFC initiatives on firefighter cancer awareness and firefighter mental wellness awareness. Information on both can be found on the EDIAFC web site; ediafc.com/. Also announced, were plans for the 2019 EDIAFC conference to be held May 10 to 12, 2019, in Hightstown/East Windsor, New Jersey, themed “Leadership is Based on Knowledge.” Past-Carlstadt Chief Larry Wood is heading up that effort which will highlight the unique and diverse New Jersey fire service. Information on the conference can also be found on the EDIAFC website. In other action; retired Chief Ted Lowden (Evesham Fire Department, NJ) was elected EDIAFC International Director and in May, Chief Joseph Cunningham, Sr., (Delran Fire Department, NJ) was selected as the EDIAFC New Jersey Director. Chief Yates, EDIAFC President can be contacted at; jyatescfo@gmail.com.
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Up Close & Personal
Paul Anderson of the Parsippany Rescue and Recovery in the Colonia 75th Anniversary parade. - Fire News photo by Mark Rosetti
Happy 94th birthday to Farmington Volunteer Fire Company 4 Treasurer Skip Ritchie as he cuts his cake after receiving a surprise from his fellow firefighters following their meeting on June 12, 2018. - Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Ex-Chief of the New Milford Fire Department Ross Rhein taking a break after a three-alarm structure fire in Oradell. - Fire News photo by Chris ‘Doc’ Denton
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Obituary
Cardiff’s Rev. Thomas Sweeny It is with deep regret and sadness that the Atlantic County Firefighters’ Association announced the passing of Rev. Thomas Sweeny. Tom left us suddenly during the evening of June 13, 2018, and will be deeply missed. Tom served as Chaplain to the Atlantic County Firefighters’ Association for more than 25 years as well as a Delegate for and a past-Chief of the Cardiff Volunteer Fire Company in Egg Harbor Township. He was predeceased by his beloved wife with whom he celebrated over 50 years of marriage, Bari C. Sweeny, mother Susan (Drake) Sweeny and father, Thomas E. Sweeny III. He is survived by his sister Gail (Sweeny) Weston, daughter Cori E. Coane (Sweeny) and husband Fred, sons Thomas E. Sweeny IV, James M. Sweeny and wife Jennifer, Grandchildren: Thomas E. Sweeny V, Scott Breder, Jillian & Julia Sweeny. Rev. Sweeny had over 59 years in the fire service with 50 of those years in the Cardiff Volunteer Fire Company, and served in various offices including that of Chief. Rev. Sweeny is a past member of the Atlantic County OEM Advisory Board. He was also active in the Boy Scouts of America, member of the American Legion, the 157th Field Artillery Association, Enlisted Association of the New Jersey National Guard and the Association of the United States Army. Rev. Sweeny is a retired First Sergeant in the New Jersey Army National Guard, having served on active duty in the US Navy and the US Coast Guard prior to enlisting in the Army National Guard. He is retired from the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers LU 351. In lieu of flowers, the family requested donations to be sent in his name to any one of the organizations he loved: The Last Salute Military Funeral Honor Guard of Galloway, Cardiff Volunteer Fire Company, or Saint Mark and All Saints Columbaria fund. He was a good friend, a great chief, and a great mentor. He will be greatly missed. - Fire News story by Robert A. Mellon and Dennis C. Sharpe
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EMS Cadets Test Skills at Bayshore Challenge Approximately 150 youth from 18 New Jersey and New York volunteer emergency medical organizations competed in the June 9, 2018, Bayshore EMS Cadet/Youth Competition. The event was sponsored by the Keyport First Aid Squad and the EMS Council of New Jersey (EMSCNJ), which represents 20,000 EMS volunteers affiliated with more than 250 EMS agencies throughout the state. The fifth annual event challenged cadet teams with basic and advanced skills in various patient-care situations. Twenty-three basic teams tested their skills at CPR, defibrillator use, hemorrhage control, oxygen administration, splinting, bandaging and vital signs stations. Advanced-team scenarios included a trauma victim, a cardiac victim and an MVA with entrapped victims. Sixteen advanced teams were judged on patient assessment and proper equipment use — backboard, orthopedic/scoop, traction splint, cervical collar and accessories, oxygen, assisting with nitroglycerin administration, obtaining vital signs, CPR and airway management. The teams worked with local extrication groups during the car crash scenarios.
WINNERS OF THE BASIC-LEVEL COMPETITION: 1st - Lambertville-New Hope Ambulance and Rescue Squad, Team C (perfect score) 2nd - Forest Hills Volunteer Ambulance Corps, Devil Dogs Echo Team (New York) 3rd - Bravo Volunteer Ambulance, Team D (Bay Ridge, Brooklyn) WINNERS OF THE ADVANCED-LEVEL COMPETITION: 1st - Cranford First Aid Squad, Team A 2nd - Millburn-Short Hills Volunteer First Aid Squad, Team B 3rd - Cranford First Aid Squad, Team B The Totowa First Aid Squad “Critical Care Cadets” team comprising five girls ages 11 and 12 won the Walter McKinley Memorial Award for best overall team. During his more than 60 years in volunteer EMS, McKinley served as president of the New Jersey State First Aid Council/EMSCNJ in the late 1970s and as a chaplain for the organization for many years. His daughter, Karen Serbe, presented the trophy Saturday to the Totowa youth team. Other squads that competed: Atlantic Highlands First Aid & Safety Squad, Califon First Aid Squad, Glen Oaks Volunteer Ambulance Corps (New York), Glen Ridge Volunteer Ambulance Squad, Hazlet Township First Aid & Rescue Squad, High Bridge Emergency Squad, Keansburg EMS, Keyport First Aid Squad, Middletown First Aid & Rescue Squad, Millburn-Short Hills Volunteer First Aid Squad, South Orange Rescue Squad and Tinton Falls EMS North. - Fire News photos by Sylvia Mulvaney Photos by Sylvie Mulvaney/EMSCNJ Photo 1 caption:
First place in the advanced-class competition went to Cranford First Aid Squad Team A members (left to right) adviser Abe Pritzker, Emily Marinucci, Grace DiGiovanni, Leyla Serna and Caitlin Cook.
(Left to right) Nicole Villalba, Mia Achitoov, Tarika Bansal and Tyler Cross formed Team B of the Millburn-Short Hills Volunteer First Aid Squad, which took second place in the advanced-class competition.
Cranford First Aid Squad Team B members (left to right) adviser Kent Lucas, Joey Lopes, Zack Kornberger and Parth Shah took home the advanced-class third place trophy.