VOLUME 7, NO. 6
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Since 1973 JANUARY 2018
Story on page 15. -Fire News photo by Frank Wesnoski
Fire News Wishes Everyone A Happy & Safe New Year! -Pennsylvania Edition-
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Fire News, January 2018, Page 3
In this issue... Mechanicsburg House Fire On November 28, 2017, crews responded to East Portland Street in the Borough of Mechanicsburg for a house fire.
See story page 8
Total Loss in McKees Rocks Firefighters were dispatched to the 700 Block of Chartiers Avenue in McKees Rocks for a reported fire on the third floor of an apartment building. See story page 12
New Kensington Training Coverage of recent Pennsylvania training. See story page 23
LCFA Training Facility Loses Mascot Sadly, on Thanksgiving Day, long time mascot from a neighboring farm, Kayla passed away. See story page 24
Fully Involved in Young Twp. Assistant Chief Dan Briggs and Captain Nikki Galinac got engaged on October 22, 2017, in classic firefighter style.
See story page 26
Obituaries
A Service for Pennsylvania Firefighters and EMS Providers Founded 1973
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 CLIFF CHIESA, Art Director, Production Manager Advertising Sales: BARBARA CONNOLLY, EVELYN ALOISIO Graphic Artists: LYNN SEDLER, GREG JONES, SHANNON GRAHAM CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS DAWN ALTSTATT, TED AURIG, LAUREN CARPENTER, JASON COLEMAN-COBB, JEFF GOLDBERG, N. GRISWOLD, ALEX LLOYD GROSS, CHRIS HALDEMAN, CURTIS JURY, KEN LAGER, GREG LEAMAN, ANDY MARSH SR., STEVEN MATTO, ARTIE OSNIAK, STEVE ROTH, PATRICK SHOOP, SHANE SHIFFLETT, JAYSON WAGNER, ASHLEY WALTERS, FRANK WESNOSKI, DENNIS WETHERHOLD, JR. COLUMNS KRAIG HERMAN, TIM SOLOBAY, SHANE SHIFFLETT COPYRIGHT 2018, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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Kiski’s Darhl L. Goldinger See story page 28
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 PA Fire Fighters in Action . . . . . . . .pages 18-19 CVVFA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 21 Up Close & Personal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 22 Training
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Industry News
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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 Inc, with corporate offices at 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713.
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
Set the Example in 2018 As I gave thought to the highlights of 2017, I asked myself what I planned on doing to make 2018 a banner year. I decided I wanted to make my New Year’s resolution something different than I have in the past. Thinking ahead to 2019, I want to be able to look back on 2018 with a smile and to be able to say that I made a difference in the fire service. All of us need to make a difference in the jobs that we perform daily. For the average first responder, it is easy to become complacent and accept the easy way out to make your required training and response points for the year. I was annoyed in 2017, when I heard members turn down extra training because they met the requirement for training for a certain discipline. Let’s face it, if you take a class on knots, most members may walk away from the knot class with a basic understanding of how to tie a few knots, but would they put their life on the line as FDNY Rescue 1 firefighter James Lee did to save a life as he went over the side of a building to rescue an 81-year-old man from a fifth-floor
window at an intense six-alarm fire in Manhattan? For 2018, look in the mirror and ask yourself would you, or could you, perform a lifesaving skill if you were placed in a precarious situation. In 2018, push yourself to be the best of the best! Care about setting the example for others to follow. If you are a seasoned veteran or just starting your career, you must review and practice your basic skills on a regular basis. You must discuss all calls, especially those where things may have gone wrong. For the seasoned veteran, realize your limitations. Veteran first responders still need to practice the skills they were taught years ago along with the younger members. I see so many mistakes that are made due to complacency. Do you always don your gear the correct way? Do you wear your chin strap, gloves and button your turnout coat the correct way? When you return from a serious call are you cleaning your gear, especially your protective hood? Make sure your department has a program in place to make sure your PPE is ready to protect you, when
the need arises. Take the time in 2018 to inspect your gear on a routine basis. Make sure it is clean. Dirty gear is not a badge of honor. Career firefighters generally perform a routine check of the equipment they will be using for their shift; volunteer firefighters perform this task on a regular basis as well, typically as part of scheduled work details. But, are you really doing it? Make sure you lose the attitude that someone else inspected the equipment yesterday, so you can get away without doing it today. When the ball drops on New Year’s Eve, hug your loved ones, remember the families of our fallen, say a prayer for world peace, and dust off your training manuals, so you can be the best at what you love to do. Happy New Year to all! -Dennis
Page 6, Fire News, January 2018
PA Fire Safety Summit
NFPA Regional Education Specialist Meredith Hawes.
Arson K-9 Judge and Chief Laubach - Allentown Fire
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Dwayne Redd from State Farm Insurance
Tim Hughes, Altoona Fire Department with Arson K-9 Tyra
Faith Berry, NFPA, discussing Wildland Fire Safety On November 16 and November 17, 2017, Pennsylvania Fire Service members and other professionals took part in the first PA Fire Safety Summit sponsored by NFPA. The event was held at the Best Western Premier in Harrisburg and preceded the annual PFESI Conference and Dinner on November 18, 2017. Those who attended learned about Pennsylvania’s fire problems and the data associated with fire deaths, particularly the number of older adult fire deaths. Attendees also learned about the tools NFPA has to offer in the promotion of fire safety, most offered free of charge.
Other programs included Natural Gas Emergencies presented by UGI Utilities, Wildland Fire Safety, Carbon Monoxide Dangers presented by CPSC, home fire sprinklers, smoke alarm installation programs and special guests Judge and Tyra (arson K-9 dogs) sponsored by State Farm Insurance. Planning has already begun for next year's summit as it is hoped to build off this one for many years to come. Thank you to all the attendees and presenters for helping to MAKE PENNSYLVANIA FIRE SAFE AGAIN. - Submitted by Kraig Herman
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Fire News, January 2018, Page 7
Great Stop by New Kensington
On October 18, 2017, New Kensington Stations 1 through 5 ing houses, the fire was still held to original fire structure. - Fire News photo by Steven Matto responded to a kitchen fire turned fully involved structure fire. Crews battled the blaze for hours, and with only 18 inches separat-
Page 8, Fire News, January 2018
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Mechanicsburg House Fire
On November 28, 2017, crews responded to East Portland Street in the Borough of Mechanicsburg for a house fire. Engine Companies 28, 27 and 37; Truck 28; and Rescues 30 and 27 responded on the initial box. Chief 27 reported smoke showing from the roof with embers from side C. Engine 31 and Squad 33 (RIT) were special
called to the scene. Companies made a quick knock on a secondfloor fire involving an exterior deck with extension into a two-story, occupied, multi-family dwelling. One occupant was rescued from the second floor unresponsive and transported to a local hospital. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
Hanover Twp. Garage Fire On November 22, 2017, members of the Hanover Township Fire Department were dispatched to Wedgewood Road for a garage fire. Chief Wasem reported flames showing from an attached garage and ordered a first alarm assignment. Engine 1513 was ordered to drop a supply line on the way in and deploy a 2-1/2 inch attack line. Crews went to work and deployed several handlines. The fire was placed under control within an hour. - Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold
West Fairview Fire On November 6, 2017, East Pennsboro Township Engine Companies 20, 17, 21 and 13; Squad 20; Trucks 17 and 30; and Rescue 20 responded to Third Street in the village of West Fairview for a house fire. Headquarters advised of receiving several calls of smoke coming from the roof. Rescue 69 was dispatched as RIT. Chief 5 arrived to smoke showing from a two-story house. Companies encountered hoarding conditions before locating and knocking down the bulk of the fire in about 10 minutes. The fire displaced two adults. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
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Fire News, January 2018, Page 9
Total Loss in Avonmore
On October 24, 2017, multiple crews fought a commercial structure The building was a total loss. fire at a trucking company in Avonmore, Armstrong County.
- Fire News photo by Steven Matto
Page 10, Fire News, January 2018
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E. Petersburg House Fire
On November 27, 2017, East Petersburg Engines 23-1, 208, 67-1 and 69-1; Trucks 23 and 67; and Rescues 23 and 25 were dispatched to Miller Road in East Petersburg Borough for a dwelling fire. A caller indicated that ashes ignited the back deck attached to the house. Chief 23 arrived to fire on side C of a two-story, occupied wood frame with fire already up in the second floor and attic. Engine 23-1 hit the hydrant in front of the structure and crews initiated an interior attack. Due to deteriorating conditions, companies were evacuated about 25 minutes into the incident. Master streams were put in place and companies were able to knock down the bulk of fire before re-entering and performing extensive overhaul to extinguish the fire. The fire was placed under control in about an hour. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
Leechburg Bedroom Fire Leechburg (Armstrong County) firefighters responded to a bedroom fire on Washington Avenue on November 13, 2017. - Fire News photo by Steven Matto
Smoke After Power Outage On November 17, 2017, Station 14 Everson, Station 58 Scottdale (Westmoreland County), along with other stations, were dispatched to Brown Street in Everson Borough, Fayette County, for smoke in a structure after an area-wide power outage. Engine 14 arrived and could not find anything wrong at the residence and returned the rest of the alarm. - Fire News photo by Artie Osniak
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Total Loss in McKees Rocks
On December 28, 2017, firefighters were dispatched to the 700 Block of Chartiers Avenue in McKees Rocks for a reported fire on the third floor of an apartment building. Police arrived and began getting people out of the building. Fire units arrived to heavy fire showing on the third floor. Firefighters rescued several people and began an offensive attack. Finally, all units were evacuated from the
building and defensive operations began and continued for several hours before the fire was brought under control. Twelve residents were displaced and the building was considered a total loss. Several people were treated for minor injuries mainly due to falling on ice in the single digital temperatures. - Fire News photo by FirstDuePhotography.com
Apartment Fire in Lancaster On December 13, 2017, the Lancaster Township Fire Department was dispatched for an apartment building fire on Michelle Drive. The occupant burnt food and proceeded to evacuate the smoke in her apartment by opening the entry door causing the hall way to charge with smoke and activate the building fire alarm. The smoke dissipated prior to the arrival of the fire department. No damage was reported in the apartment. - Fire News photo by Greg Leaman
Hoarding Helps Fire Go to 4th Alarm December 9, 2017, Lancaster City Engines 1, 2 and 3, and Truck 2 were dispatched to Pearl Street for a dryer fire in a basement. Engine 2 arrived to smoke showing from a two-story, occupied, brick, semi-attached dwelling. Truck 2 crew reported hoarding conditions. The majority of the fire was quickly knocked in the basement but difficulties in making entry allowed the fire to extend to the first floor. A second alarm was requested bringing in mutual aid companies. Exterior lines were used to completely knock down the fire and companies remained on the scene for extensive overhaul. The fire eventually went to a fourth-alarm assignment. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
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Fire News, January 2018, Page 13
Upper Leacock Fire
On November 30, 2017, Upper Leacock Fire Company and surrounding departments were dispatched to Glenola Drive at H.M. Stauffer and Sons in the Leola section of Upper Leacock for a building fire. The Upper Leacock Station 61 chief reported a building fire and a patient with serious burns, and requested a medevac. A second alarm was also dispatched as heavy fire consumed a 240- x 60-foot storage warehouse filled with lumber. Tanker shuttles and fill sites were established to supplement the water supply. Aerial master streams from Trucks 39, 31, 204 and 63, along with ground lines, poured water on the fire for almost three hours before declaring it under control. An excavator and extensive overhaul were required to completely extinguish the fire before companies cleared the scene. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
Middletown House Fire On December 26, 2017, Middletown Company 88, and Engines 54, 59-1 and 71-1, were dispatched to the 400 block of Grant Street for a structure fire. Chief 88 added Engine 71 from nearby HIA to the run and, shortly before arrival, requested the first alarm. Engine 55, Rescue 59, Truck 50 and Air 41 were the extra companies. Companies arrived to heavy smoke showing from a two-story, single-family dwelling with an occupant possibly inside. Two lines were stretched and operated on side D and knocked down a basement fire which had extended to the first and second floors. The fire was placed under control in about 45 minutes with no injuries. Primary searches on the first and second floor were negative and it was determined the occupant was not home at the time. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
Page 14, Fire News, January 2018
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Good Stop in Allentown
On December 13, 2017, the Allentown 911 Center dispatched Battalion 43; Engines 13, 6 and 9; Truck 2; and Engine 14 as RIT to Union Boulevard for a structure fire at the Punta Cana Restaurant. Engine 13 arrived to flames from the roof. Engine 13’s crew stretched an attack line as additional units arrived to assist with a supply line and forcible entry. Truck 2 put its bucket to the roof. As a crew went to the roof to begin opening up, Engine 13’s crew started making an attack on the fire in the ceiling of the kitchen area. Crews worked for about 20 minutes before getting the fire under control. - Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold
Middletown Township Fire Firefighters from the Skyline Fire District worked a house fire in Middletown Township, Bucks County. Heavy smoke billowed from the dwelling, hampering firefighting efforts to put water on the source. Red Paw was on scene to help any displaced pets. No injuries were reported but it took in excess of 30 minutes to bring the blaze under control. - Fire News photo by Dawn Altstatt
Lancaster Electrical Fire
Herndon Structure Fire
On November 25, 2017, Lancaster Township Fire department and Blue Rock Fire Rescue 905 were dispatched to the Quail Run Apartments on Passey Lane for an building fire. On arrival, the power was off to the apartment and a burning electrical odor present. During the investigation, it was discovered the main breaker at the electrical meter outside the building was tripped and in the off position. At the time of dispatch, the temperature was 36 degrees. Without electricity and no heat, the temperature in the apartment began dropping. The seven occupants — five children and two teenagers — were moved to Engine 66-3 to keep warm. The electrical issue was traced to the heating unit in a closet at the rear of the apartment. - Fire News photo by Greg Leaman
On November 27, 2017, Herndon fire units responded for a second alarm fire. Chief 63-3 arrived to find a structure 75-percent involved. - Fire News photo by Seth Lasko
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Fire News, January 2018, Page 15
Cover Story
Déjà vu All Over Again
On November 28, 2017, City of Chester firefighters responded to a twoalarm fire in the 400 block of Bickley Place. The area was the scene of several suspicious fires previously. - Fire News photos by Frank Wesnoski
Page 16, Fire News, January 2018
Extrication in Bensalem
Bensalem firefighters performed an extended rescue when three cars collided on Street Road. One car left the road, and slammed into a pickup, which was at a gas pump fueling, and then hit another vehicle. Two people in the initial vehicle were trapped, and three people were transported to local hospitals. - Fire News photo by Alex Lloyd Gross
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Catasauqua MVA
Firefighters from Catasauqua along with Northampton Regional EMS were dispatched to 14th Street in the area of the Schlecker Elementary School on November 6, 2017, for a vehicle accident with entrapment. Crews reported one male heavily entrapped. As crews worked to free the driver, an additional rescue truck was called from Whitehall. It took crews about 45 minutes to free the driver. - Fire News photo by Geoffrey Wetherhold
Vira Road Rollover
Head-on MVA in Lancaster Township
On November 29, 2017, units responded to an MVA rollover on Vira Road. Engine 3 and Medic 12 arrived to find a vehicle in a field with one ejection. Life Flight 2 was requested to transport the Class 1 trauma patient. - Fire News photo by Pat Shoop
On December 21, 2017, the Lancaster Township Fire Department responded to an MVA at the intersection of North President and Marietta Avenues. The driver and passenger in one car were injured, while the other driver was not. - Fire News photo by Greg Leaman
2-Car MVA in Middletown
Apparatus Hit in Harrisburg MVA
Multiple people sustained injuries, some serious, at a two-car MVA at Route 413 and Frosty Hollow Road in Middletown, Bucks County. One vehicle rolled multiple times, trapping two people. Companies from Pendell, Langhorne Middletown and Newportville were called to the scene for an extended extrication. - Fire News photo by Dawn Altstatt
On December 2, 2017, Harrisburg Wagon 4 and Tower 1 were dispatched to 25th and Market Streets for an MVA with injuries. Shortly after arrival, Lieutenant Worner from Tower 1 requested Squad 8 be dispatched for a vehicle that slammed into Wagon 4. A minivan travelling east on Market Street failed to yield and crashed into the rear driver’s side of Wagon 4. The occupant of the minivan was extricated before the arrival of the squad. No crew members from Wagon 4 or Tower 1 were injured in the accident. A heavy wrecker towed Wagon 4 from the scene and the crew switched over to staff reserve Engine 2. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
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Fire News, January 2018, Page 17
SUV-Pickup MVA Injures 5 On November 13, 2017, crews from New Kensington and Lower Burrell responded to a two-vehicle MVA on Route 56 in New Kensington. Five people were injured, two entrapped, and one ejected. Crews quickly freed the patients, and three were transported by Stat MedEvac helicopters. - Fire News photo by Steven Matto
3-Car MVA in Philadelphia Firefighters in Philadelphia were busy during midNovember at a three-car MVA on Bustleton Avenue and Byberry Road. One vehicle rolled several times and two drivers sustained injury. Companies responding were Engine 58, Ladder 34 , Battalion 13 and two medic units. - Fire News photo by Alex Lloyd Gross
Door Pop at Allentown MVA Emergency services personnel from the City of Allentown responded to an accident with injuries in the 3400 Block of Tilghman Street on December 9, 2017. Engine 10 requested Engine 9 for a door pop for a driver who had minor injuries but was unable to climb
over the console to get out. - Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold
Page 18, Fire News, January 2018
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Pennsylvania Fire Fighters in Action
crews responded to 17, Glenolden fire On December 3, 20 car fire on MacDade Boulevard. an early morning Frank Wesnoski - Fire News photo by
On November 11, 2017, Lancaster Township Fire Police were dispatched to control traffic at an MVA on Millersville Pike. Fire Chief Ron Comfort, Jr., noticed the driver of one of the vehicles and her dog were in distress from the early morning cold temperature and placed the shivering driver and her dog in his vehicle to keep them warm. - Fire News photo by Greg Leaman
Firefighters were able to keep a fire from damaging the entire building in Bristol Township on December 17, 2017. Crews rescued a dog from a second floor apartment. - Fire News photo by Dawn Altstatt
Hit-and-run in Trevos e. - Fire News photo by Dawn Altstatt
ing for hot spots at Highland Hose Firefighter Nick Parise search eny County. Allegh in fire house 2017, 18, er an Octob - Fire News photo by Steven Matto
Fire crews sent two me dic a male driver who slam units and Engine 28 to deal with med into the back of a SEPTA bus in Philadelphia in early Dec - Fire News photo by Ale ember 2017. x Lloyd Gross
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Fire News, January 2018, Page 19
Pennsylvania Fire Fighters in Action
On October 15, 201 7, Lowe a single-vehicle accide r Burrell Station 69 responded to nt in which the going around a sharp driver lost control bend. - Fire News photo by Steven Matto
sburg Squad 8, On December 26, 2017, Box 1-1 alerted Harri 6 (Bradford) for a Wagon 4, Tower 1, Truck 2,and Battalion Chief fire on South Cameron Street. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
Emergency responders in Bensalem worked at a two crash on Bensalem Bou levard in early November -car 2017. - Fire News photo by Ale x Lloyd Gross
e nded to a vehicle fir a companies respo e. Penn Hills and Veron s quickly upgraded to a structure fir wa in a garage, which Steven Matto - Fire News photo by
On Christmas Day 2017, Stations 99 (Allegheny Twp.) and 101 (Markle) responded to a single-vehicle accident with entrapment and injuries. - Fire News photo by Steven Matto
Near midnight on December 14, 2017, Susquehanna Township Box 32-4 sent Company 32 (Progress); Engines 31 (Edgemont), 33 (Colonial Park) and 30 (Penbrook); Truck 34 (Paxtonia); and Rescues 37 and 44 (Lawnton) to Brittany Boulevard near Elmerton Avenue for a house fire. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
Page 20, Fire News, January 2018
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There’s a Duck Stuck on the Roof On October 21, 2017, Jim Bartolovich from Arnold 95-1 responded to a ‘Duck on a Roof’ call. - Fire News photo by Steven Matto
Lighting a Crime Scene Firefighters were called to light a crime scene on Bristol Pike in Bristol Borough in December 2017. Two cars were drag racing when one slammed into a man on a bicycle, killing him instantly. The car fled the scene but was found days later. Both Township and Borough Fire Police were called to control traffic for several hours. - Fire News photo by Dawn Altstatt
Bensalem Murder-Suicide on I-95 On November 26, 2017, fire crews from Bensalem were called to assist with a shooting on I-95 that left two family members dead. An argument inside a car resulted in a male stopping his car and a female running away. He then chased her and shot her, before turning the gun on himself. The incident happened on the expressway by Woodhaven Road just north of the city. Companies from Cornwells and Eddington provided lighting and traffic control. - Fire News photo by Alex Lloyd Gross
Millersville Underground Gas Leak Blue Rock Fire Rescue was dispatched to Wabank Road at the Oak Leaf Manor South assisted living community on November 13, 2017, for a 911 call of the smell of an odor of natural gas. Chief 905 confirmed the odor and requested UGI to respond along with fire police from Lancaster Township. A UGI representative arrived and confirmed an underground gas leak in a medium pressure gas line. Chief 905 requested two more engines, Millersville Boro Sewer Department and the Lancaster City Water Department. Firefighters began checking homes next to the facility, a pumping station and surrounding sewer openings. Lancaster Township Engine 66-1 was dispatched and was assigned to monitor gas levels at the nearby ER Martin Elementary School. A UGI construction crew arrived and began cutting a hole in the roadway to access the leak. Firefighters returned to the scene on November 17, when a UGI permanently fixed the underground leak. - Fire News photo by Greg Leaman passerby smelled an odor of gas in the same location. The next day,
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Fire News, January 2018, Page 21
CVVFA By Claudia Garner and Candice McDonald
ResponderSafety.Com Breaks New Ground in DDriver Effort with “Distracted Driving Endangers First Responders” Messaging and Resources New PIO and Public Educator Page Delivers Much-Needed Public Education Resources ResponderSafety.Com is equipping public information officers use to educate the public about what to do — and not do — when emer(PIOs) and public educators with new tools to get the message out to the gency responders are present on the roadway. The page includes video PSAs; media advisory templates; sample public about the dangers distracted drivers media contact e-mails; downloadable pose to emergency responders operating on resources including a push card; a press the roadway and safe driving practices when packet; a backgrounder for leadership; new approaching and passing roadway incident stories and case studies on struck by inciscenes. Every year, dozens of responders dents; free training modules; and much more from fire, law enforcement, EMS, DOT, safeto help PIOs and public educators community service patrols, and towing and recovery cate messages like Move Over Slow Down, are killed, and many more injured when they Move It (Fender Bender laws), and anti-disare struck by passing vehicles at roadway tracted driving. incidents. These deaths and injuries are preResponderSafety.com has partnered with ventable. For well over a decade, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, ResponderSafety.Com has been working to the National Law Enforcement Officers train responders how to improve their safety Memorial Fund, and the PA Fireman magapractices during roadway response. Progress zine to promote this page and its resources. has been made toward improving adoption of The new page debuts during National Traffic these safety practices and reducing struck Incident Response Week whose theme bys. However, there has been a missing piece “We’re All in This Together” fits perfectly of the puzzle — motivating the public to with ResponderSafety.com’s mission to exercise due care when approaching and improve safety and traffic incident managepassing emergency scenes on the roadway. ment for all agencies who respond to roadResponderSafety.com is taking up this way incidents. Departments in all disciplines challenge with a new page of resources and are encouraged to check out the new information at respondersafety.com/PIO resources page at respondersafety.com/PIO. specifically for PIOs and public educators to
Page 22, Fire News, January 2018
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Up Close & Personal City of Chester firefighters after a twoalarm fire in the 400 block of Bickley Place. - Fire News photo by Frank Wesnoski
A Vandergrift firefighter at a basement fire on October 27, 2017. - Fire News photo by Steven Matto Emmaus Fire Chief John Price commands a fire scene on Pennsylvania Avenue on December 22, 2017. - Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold
Butler City Captain Jim Kaufman and Firefighter Skip Lohr after battling a house fire in the City of Butler on December 1, 2017. - Fire News photo by Artie Osniak
Working at a Mechanicsburg house fire on November 28, 2017. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
Lower Burrell firefighter at a two-vehicle MVA on Route 56 in New Kensington on November 13, 2017. - Fire News photo by Steven Matto
Engine 14’s crew stands by on the RIT assignment during a dwelling fire on North Kearney Street in Allentown. - Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold
Conferring at a dryer fire in Manheim on Novmber 23, 2017. - Fire News photo by Greg Leaman
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Fire News, January 2018, Page 23
Training
New Kensington Training
New Kensington Stations 56-2 and 4 BVR recently held a training drill. - Fire News photos by Steven Matto
York County Resupply Training
York County DLA Fire 69 and NRMA Fire conducting resupply operation training. - Fire News photo by Shane Shifflett
Page 24, Fire News, January 2018
LCFA Training Facility Loses Mascot
Firefighters participating at Lancaster County Firemen’s Association class “A” live burn training facility would be visited by a neighbor’s farm dog named Kayla. Kayla traversed the farm fields to greet the firefighters without fail. Sadly, on Thanksgiving Day, November 23, 2017, Kayla passed away. “There wasn’t an occasion when Kayla did not show up during a live burn,” stated Lieutenant Greg Leaman from Lancaster Township Fire Department. “She would take in all the loving the firefighters would provide” Leaman said. Kayla would enjoy the fellowship of the firefighters, lying in the grass observing the firefighters entering and exiting the burn building as smoke billowed from the windows and doors. She would jump up and attempt to bite the streams of water as the firefighters were cleaning the burn rooms and outside during hose line evolutions. She will be greatly missed by all the staff and firemen at the training facility. Rest in peace Kayla! - Fire News photos by Greg Leaman
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Fire News, January 2018, Page 25
2018 National Winter Convention of SPAAMFAA By Bob Romig
The 2018 National Winter Convention of SPAAMFAA will be held in Kissimmee, Florida, February 7 to 10, 2018. This event is being sponsored by the Florida Antique Bucket Brigade (FABB). It will be held at the Park Inn-Radisson located at 3011 Maingate Lane, Kissimmee, Florida. We have lots of events and activities planned for the week, starting off on Wednesday with a Nostalgia Night with food and beverages provided. On Thursday, we have a tour of the Emergency One plant and Revco facilities in Ocala with lunch provided at E-One. We also have a tour scheduled to visit the Cape Canaveral Fire Department at Port Canaveral with lunch provided. If you don’t want to go on the tours we will have a seminar on working with leather, and a seminar on the Evolution of Crash Trucks-ARFF vehicles. Thursday night will feature Andy Swift from Fire Fly Restorations of Hope, Maine, who will talk about restoring your rig back to its days of glory. Friday’s tour we will be to Osceola FR
Station 64 to see their equipment and get an overview of their department operations. From there we venture to Kissimmee Fire Department Station 11 for a tour of their station and overview of their operations. Lunch is included in this trip also. Upon our arrival, they will have their 1923 American La France pumper, as well as some other antiques in town for our convention, pumping from the pond behind the station. If you don’t want to go on the tours, we have two seminars that day, as well. In the morning, we will have a Deputy Chief from the Reedy Creek Emergency Services giving us a little history and background on their department and also some of their equipment on display. During the lunch hour, we will have a Pampered Chef demo for those who enjoy cooking. Later in the afternoon we will have a seminar on the History of Gold Leaf. On Friday, we will have our firematic flea market in the ball room from 1400 to 1800 for those of you looking for anything you might need to complete your restoration. On Saturday, our flea market will again be
open from 0900 to 1500 with outside vendors. Our finale for the day will be our antique fire apparatus show with non-motorized and motorized apparatus (1993 and older) from 1000 to 1500. Cash prizes will be awarded for the longest distance driven and transported in-state and out-of-state, as well as awards for many other categories. We will also have a pumping contest for the antique rigs to see who can flow water the quickest. We’ll also had a recreation of a 1993 photo — at the same convention and hotel — of the Kissimmee American La France pumping from the pond out front. We are also going to have a pumping contest for the Cadets and Explorers using an 1880-era hand pumper to see who is the quickest to knock down a target. Please take a moment and go to our website www.fabbfire.org and review our complete convention package. We would like to see you at our show. Come on out and talk to some of the experts who have restored these beautiful rigs. We will have some local rigs, as well as many from out of state.
Page 26, Fire News, January 2018
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Fully Involved in Young Twp.
Young Township Assistant Chief Dan Briggs and Captain Nikki Galinac got engaged on October 22, 2017, in classic firefighter style. Best wishes to you both! - Fire News photos by Steven Matto
Happy Halloween
Lower Burrell Station 54, Logan’s Ferry Heights Station 235, and New Kensington Police participated in ‘Trunk or Treat’ at a local McDonald’s, handing out candy to the kids. - Fire News photos by Steven Matto
Fire Prevention Week
Lexus Shifflett with Sparky during Fire Prevention Week in downtown Chambersburg. - Fire News photo by Shane Shifflett
FireNews.com
Fire News, January 2018, Page 27
New Kensington Christmas Parade
(Right): New Kensington Assistant Fire Chief Ed Saliba and New Kensington Police Chief Jim Klein, with Jim’s son at the Christmas Parade. - Fire News photos by Steven Matto
Page 28, Fire News, January 2018
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Obituaries
Kiski’s Darhl L. Goldinger On December 14, 2017, a funeral service was held for Kiski Township Firefighter/Police Officer Darhl Goldinger. He passed away on December 11, age 72. Goldinger was a member of the Kiski Township Volunteer Fire Department, and past member of the Manor Township Volunteer Fire Department. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Apollo Ridge Food Bank, Inc., 1268 Old State Road, Apollo, PA 15613, or the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105. - Fire News photos by Steven Matto
Naval Yard Quint
It’s Still a Merry Christmas
Navy Region Mid Atlantic Fire - Philadelphia Naval Yard Quint 53. - Fire News photo by Shane Shifflett
Allentown Reserve Engine 15 was decorated by the 1st Platoon Engine 4 crew as their normal rig was out of service and they were running this rig for Christmas time. Engine 15 is a 1999 Pierce, which was originally purchased as Engine 4 and was placed in reserve status in 2017 with the arrival of the new Engine 4. - Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold
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Fire News, January 2018, Page 29
Lancaster Township FD 2017 Service Awards
Firefighter Jeremy Logue
Firefighter Anthony Clare
Captain Tom Royer
Firefighter Tyler Weiler
Sally Comfort
Lieutenant Mike Connelly
Administraitive Lieutenant Greg Leaman
Firefighter Pat Egan
The Lancaster Township Fire Department held its annual appreciation banquet on November 11, 2017, at the Conestoga Country Club in Manor Township. The annual banquet is held to recognize members who displayed outstanding service throughout the year. A buffet style dinner was provided for all members of the department followed by the awards ceremony. Each year after the awards presentation, Lieutenant Greg Leaman presents a slide show from the past years incidents and events. Fire Chief Ron Comfort, Jr., and Deputy Chief Glenn Usdin presented the service awards to the firefighters. Fire Police Captain Ron Comfort, Sr., presented the fire police awards Firefighter of the Year was presented to Firefighter Jeremy Logue for his outstanding service to the department. Logue can fix or repair anything at any time. Rookie Firefighter of the Year was presented to Anthony Clare to recognize his high level of participation and enthusiasm in becoming a senior Lancaster Township Firefighter. Fire Officer of the Year Award was presented to Captain Tom Royer. This award is chosen by the membership to recognize service by a line officer. Royer is the quartermaster maintaining and distributing gear to new members. Royer was instrumental in keeping the monthly incident reporting up-to-date, as well as the points incentive program. He was presented with two life saving commendation awards at the banquet, as well. Fire Chief’s Award was presented to Firefighter Tyler Weiler. This award is presented to a member who assists the chief throughout the year. Weiler renewed his commitment to continue his firefighter education and pursuit of becoming a driver operator of the apparatus. President’s Award was presented to Sally Comfort. Comfort is a
member of the board and the support group. Comfort assisted the president on many executive board projects this year. Firefighter Jeff Jones Volunteerism Award is given to the member who best represents the Lancaster Township Fire Department and shows true volunteer spirit, is an all-around dedicated volunteer, an upstanding community member and someone who always comes through for the department. Firefighter Jeff Jones died in the line of duty June 13, 1981, during a confined space rescue. This award was presented to Lancaster Township Supervisor Ben Bamford and Superintendent of Public Works Mike Hamlin. Both assisted their volunteer fire departments this year traveling the extra mile on township related issues. Lieutenant Keith Rankin Training Award is given to the person who has dedicated themselves to the Lancaster Township Fire Department in all aspects of training. Rankin died in the line of duty September 25, 2011, during a live burn drill at Lancaster County Firemen’s Association Pequea Lane Fire School. This award was presented to training officer Lieutenant Mike Connelly for his outstanding service supplying bi-weekly training throughout the year and scheduling out of department training. Jeffrey L. Wolfersberger Memorial Award was presented to Administrative Lieutenant Greg Leaman. This award is given to a member who quietly goes about fire department business without complaining and never requires recognition. These were the traits of Lancaster Township firefighter Jeffrey L. Wolfersberger who passed away July 11, 2001. Leaman was the Chairman of the Lancaster County Firemen’s Association 97th Annual Convention hosted by Lancaster Township Fire Department. Leaman, as chairman, presided over the memorial service, convention meeting, convention book and convention parade. continues on next page
Page 30, Fire News, January 2018
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Lancaster Township FD 2017 Service Awards continued from previous page The Thomas H. Schaller Award for Excellence was created in 2015 to recognize Schaller’s 55 years of service for Lancaster Township. The third recipient of the award, Schaller being the first, was presented to firefighter Pat Egan. Egan is a dedicated volunteer firefighter and chauffeur at Lancaster Township North Station. Egan completed 50 years of service this year. (See story below) The Thomas H. Schaller Award for Excellence is the highest award given by the Lancaster Township Fire Department and is bestowed upon an individual who has excelled in serving their communiLieutenant ty or organization which surpasses Rod Warner ordinary standards. The individual has displayed integrity, reliability, commitment, leadership, and the highest work ethic. They meet all obligations, take ownership and accountability, are responsible and continually learn in order to improve and reach the ultimate goal of excellence in what they do. Life Membership was granted to Lieutenant Chad Slover, Lieutenant Jennifer Miller and Lieutenant Rod Warner, Jr. Members are eligible for life membership after completing 15 years of continuous service. Fire Police Officer of the Year Award was presented to Sergeant John Jones and Officer Jason Beiler for their dedication and high level of participation. Fire Police Line Officer of the Year Award was presented to Lieutenant Rod Warner, Jr., for assisting the fire police captain with public events and coordinating fire police activities. Top Responder Awards were presented to Lieutenant Chad Slover (331 calls/ 62.02 percent), firefighter Jason Snyder (308/59.57), Captain Tom Royer (307/59.27), Firefighter Devin Ashba (303/58.61), Engineer Mark Clare (272/52.61); fire police Sergeant John Jones (215/41.51), Fire Police Officer Jason Beiler (198/38.22) and Lieutenant Rod Warner, Jr. (117/22.59). Participation Commendations were presented to Engineer Mark
Sergeant Officer John Jones Jason Beiler Clare (99 events/41.6 percent) Lieutenant Mike Adams (96/40.3), Lieutenant Chad Slover (77/32.4), Captain Tom Royer (77/32.4), Fire Chief Ron Comfort Jr. (75/31.5) Firefighter Tyler Weiler (75/31.5); Sergeant John Jones (88/37) fire police Captain Ronald Comfort Sr. (77/32.4), and Fire Police Officer Jason Beiler (58/24.4). Department Commendations were presented to Captain Tom Royer for two life saving events while off duty. First Commendation: On the evening of Sunday August 13, 2017, while dining at a local restaurant, Captain Tom Royer was alerted by firefighter Alex Royer of a male at a nearby table that appeared to be having difficulty breathing. Captain Royer responded and found the man struggling to breath and becoming unconscious. Captain Royer was able to secure the patients airway and assisted the patient in regaining consciousness. Second Commendation: On the evening of October 6, 2017, while at an event at his son’s elementary school, Captain Royer was alerted by firefighter Alex Royer, of a choking child. Captain Royer responded to the child’s location and found a piece of hard candy lodged in the throat. Royer immediately began the Heimlich maneuver, and after a short time was able to free the object from the child’s airway. Following the awards ceremony, music was supplied by DJ Chuck Colson. - Fire News photos by Greg Leaman
Lancaster FF Pat Egan Presented 50-year Award
Lancaster Township Fire Department Firefighter Pat Egan was presented a 50-year service award at the annual banquet on November 11, 2017. Egan is a dedicated volunteer firefighter and chauffeur at Lancaster Township North Station. Egan was appointed Lieutenant in 1975 and elected Chief of Wheatland Fire Company in 1976, a position he held through 1978. Egan moved to Manheim Township and ran as a Firefighter with Eden Fire Company through 1981. He moved back to Lancaster Township and rejoined Wheatland Fire Company in 1982 and was elected Chief, again, in 1985. He served as Chief until the merger of
Wheatland Fire Company and Bausman Fire Company in 1991. Pat has received many recognitions over the years. His most memorable call was the June 13, 1981, confined space rescue where Bausman Firefighter Jeff Jones and two St. Joseph Hospital paramedics died in the line of duty. In the aftermath of that event, the national attention to the incident, the recognition for confined space training, and of course, the sorrow and pain of three funerals that followed were his most memorable events as chief. - Fire News photos by Greg Leaman
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Fire News, January 2018, Page 31
FDSOA’S SANDY DAVIS RAISED FF CANCER AWARENESS
Sandy Davis, former chairman of the Fire Department Safety er cancer were powerful. Rest in peace.” Michael Petroff, former FDSOA Chair, served on the board many Officers Association passed away Friday, November 3, 2017, after battling colorectal cancer. Sandy was 62-years old. Davis served on years with Davis. “Sandy was a mentor and a friend. Even during his illness, after his term as chairman of the the FDSOA Board of Directors for 12 years FDSOA, he assisted in the search and hiring and was a popular speaker at conferences of Director Rich Marinucci,” said Petroff. across the U.S. and Canada. “Sandy always had a smile and a story to tell. Davis began his fire service career with Some of his stories could even be repeated in Shreveport (LA) Fire Department and served polite company. I know he was a devoted as safety officer until he retired after 26 family man and a dedicated public servant. years. He then joined the Louisiana His Facebook post about wearing PPE Department of Homeland Security speaks of his character and concern for othEmergency Management and served as ers.” Homeland Security Director for CaddoA funeral service was held on November Bossier for 12 years. 7, 2017, in Shreveport, Louisiana. After being diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2013, Davis made it his mission to increase firefighter awareness to wear PPE at every incident. In 2015, Davis and John Phelan, a Shreveport firefighter, produced a five-minute video in 2015 for firefighters about the importance of wearing their PPE “Every incident, every time.” In the video, Davis states, “The colostomy bag is my PPE now.” He added that many nights he would lie awake wondering if wearing turnout gear would have prevented his colon cancer. “Sandy Davis was a great contributor to the FDSOA and we are all grateful to him,” said Rich Marinucci, executive director of the FDSOA. “Safety officers have become a more vital part of the fire service and Sandy’s messages on firefight-