Fire News, Pennsylvania December 2018 edition

VOLUME 8, NO. 5

W W W .FIRENE WS .COM

Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Since 1973 DECEMBER 2018

Story on page 27.

-Fire News photo by Jeff Goldberg

Happy Holidays from the Staff at Fire News -Pennsylvania Edition-

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Fire News, December 2018, Page 3

In this issue...

Fully Involved in Harrisburg Wagon 4, Squad 8, Wagon 3, Tower 1, and Battalion Chief Lloyd were dispatched to North 3rd and Edwards Streets for a structure fire.

See story on page 7

Allentown Fire Destroys Building Allentown firefighters were dispatched on October 10, 2018, to a reported structure fire at Franklin and Warren Streets.

See story on page 10

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

Lower Burrell Chimney Fire Lower Burrell 69 and 54, and Arnold 95-1 and 2 crews responded to a chimney fire in Lower Burrell on October 14, 2018. See story on page 12

Joliet, Hegins Handle Entrapment On September 21, 2018, the Joliett Fire Company responds to an MVA with reported entrapment.

See story on page 14

Advertising Sales: BARBARA CONNOLLY, EVELYN ALOISIO Graphic Artists: LYNN SEDLER, GREG JONES 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 COPYRIGHT 2018, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

National Fallen Firefighters Memorial On October 7, 2018 at the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service, fallen firefighters were honored.

See story on page 24

Briggs, Galinac Tie the Knot On September 22, 2018, Young Township Assistant Chief Dan Briggs and Captain Nikki Galinac tied the knot.

See story on page 26

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Six Editions Serving Long Island, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Pennsylvania Proud Member Of: 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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Page 4, Fire News, December 2018

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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor

Good Luck to our New Leaders Shortly, many of you in the fire-rescue and emergency services will be leading your company for the first time. Have you given thought to what your responsibilities are?

Whether you are in a paid service or a volunteer service, moving up to lead a group of responders is a serious and challenging position. Let’s face it, you are directly responsible for the training and safe performance of a number of people who will be performing dangerous activities, such as walking into a burning building or a drug den to save lives.

How your company trains, maintains gear and drills directly affects their performance.

Think about this for a minute; did you take things seriously when you were a firefighter? I ask, did you actually remove your personal rope from its bag and check it or did you check it by simply looking at it and saying, “hmm, looks good to me, why bother taking it out to inspect it?” Have you ever heard about leading by example? Let’s face it, you can’t expect your company to respond at three in morning if you never did this yourself.

Taking over a company whether it was successful or unsuccessful is not an easy task. In 1985, I purchased my home. It had a lawn that looked like a golf course. Guess what? At the end of my first summer the lawn

looked horrible. It didn’t take long for me to realize what I thought was an easy task required knowledge, dedication and hard work to maintain the “simple” task of growing grass. How did I correct my mistakes? I read books, talked to people who had great lawns and listened to the senior citizen on my block who had successfully been down the same road I was presently walking on. In our business, you should not be learning by mistakes. You should not be making mistakes that may ultimately take the life of a member.

You, the new officer, must be sure you know what you are doing!

You need to stop and evaluate yourself.

Are you, as a new officer, going to lead by example? Your members are not going to take their jobs seriously unless you are with them. Ask questions, make suggestions, encourage members to step up with new ideas and discuss the ideas with your other officers. Maybe the ideas have value and maybe they don’t. Ernest Hemmingway once said, “When people talk, listen completely.”

(If you don’t know who Ernest Hemmingway is, Google him!) Your team must know that you trust them. How do you do this? You do this by giving your team members responsibilities. It shows that you trust them.

For the company members: FDNY Firefighter Ray Pfeiffer, a hero who passed from 9/11 cancer once said to me, “Do the right thing, even when no one is looking.” In the fire service you must live by this rule. A new officer has a lot to worry about. He needs the support and trust of the company and should not have to guess whether or not you are doing the right thing. Good luck to all new officers as you lead your company in 2019.

-Dennis

Page 6, Fire News, December 2018

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Palmerton Mixed Use Blaze

Firefighters were dispatched to a structure fire at the Rusty Nail Inn on Mauch Chunk Road in Palmerton. Initial reports indicated people were trapped inside the apartments above the bar, however police reported all parties out and fire showing from the rear of the building. A request was made for additional companies out of Northampton and Lehigh Counties to assist with the blaze. Crews worked for about an hour before bringing the fire under control.

- Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr.

Philadelphia Boarding House Blaze Philadelphia firefighters had to deal with a stubborn two-alarm fire at a boarding house on Paul Street on October 26, 2018. The fire was started in the second floor and destroyed the structure. Multiple lengths of five-inch hose were deployed but the exposures sustained some smoke and water damage. Several people went to the hospital.

- Fire News photo by Alex Lloyd Gross

Fully Involved in Pittsburgh On October 16, 2018, firefighters were dispatched to Fire Zone 3-17 in the City of Pittsburgh for a reported house on fire in the 7400 block of Idlewild Street in the city’s Homewood section.

Crews arrived to find a fully involved house with exposure problems on both the bravo and delta sides. A second alarm was requested. Less than 15 minutes later, fire had extended into both exposures and a third alarm was requested. No one was injured and the fire was under investigation.

- Fire News photo by FirstDuePhotography.com

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Fully Involved in Harrisburg

At 0258 on November 2, 2018, Wagon 4, Squad 8, Wagon 3, Tower 1, and Battalion Chief Lloyd were dispatched to North 3rd and Edwards Streets in far uptown Harrisburg for a structure fire.

Ladder 2 was on a call assisting EMS in the midtown section and Squad 8 and Tower 1 were en route to a CO alarm in the eastern part of the city when the structure fire dispatched. Squad 8 and Tower 1 were diverted to the fire and county mutual aid summoned to the CO alarm call. Ladder 2 cleared and responded to the fire.

Wagon 3 arrived to the single-family dwelling fully involved. The scene was a tight street in a neighborhood close to the Susquehanna Township border. Wagon 3 and 4 both secured hydrants and laid in. Wagon 3 led off with a step gun and a line stretched from Wagon 4 to the rear. Chief 5 requested a first alarm, bringing Rescue 69, Air 13 and Chief Enterline. As the interior crews were beginning to make entry, they reported fire in the basement along with the first and second floors being burned out. The chief ordered exterior operations. Handlines and aerial streams from Ladder 2 and Tower 1 knocked down the bulk of the fire. The home was unoccupied at the time.

- Fire News photos by Jason Coleman-Cobb

Fire News, December 2018, Page 7

Page 8, Fire News, December 2018

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Big Commercial Blaze in New Kensington On September 13, 2018, crews from multiple counties assisted New Kensington firemen with a multi-unit commercial structure fire in the 400 block of 9th Street. The blaze consumed the entire block, and burned for hours, as crews had trouble getting to the interior part of the structures where the fire was heaviest. NKFD Assistant Chief Ed Saliba commanded the scene.

- Fire News photo by Steven Matto

Fatality at Pittsburgh Fire On October 23, 2018, firefighters were dispatched to North Homewood Avenue in the City of Pittsburgh for a report of a house on fire. The first arriving units found a working fire with heavy smoke showing.

Firefighters discovered a deceased victim on the first floor and continued to attack the fire. About 15 minutes into the fire, it was reported that it had extended into the bravo side house and a second alarm was requested. Crews continued to battle the fire before finally bringing it under control. The deceased victim, a 52-year-old woman, appeared to have been smoking when her oxygen tank exploded.

- Fire News photo by FirstDuePhotography.com

McKeesport Afternoon House Fire On November 3, 2018, around 1400, City of McKeesport firefighters were alerted to a house on fire with possible entrapment. Police confirmed the fire and all residents safely out. A second alarm was requested. The first McKeesport crews arrived to find heavy fire showing from the second floor. An aggressive interior attack commenced, which quickly knocked down the bulk of the fire. The fire was placed under control in about 20 minutes. Crews remained on scene to perform overhaul. There were no reported injuries and the fire was under investigation.

- Fire News photo by FirstDuePhotography.com

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Fire News, December 2018, Page 9

Stubborn Fire in Allentown Firefighters from the City of Allentown were dispatched to East Jonathan Street for a house fire.

Allentown Police were on scene reporting heavy smoke showing from the roof and attic area.

Engine 13 arrived and confirmed smoke showing. Lt. Henry had crews deploy attack lines but they were unable to find any interior access to the attic. With conditions inside the residence worsening and the rear roof becoming unstable the building was evacuated. Eventually, crews were able to make it back inside the building and find an attic access. Fire would eventually break through the rear roof as crews worked to contain the fire. It took crews over an hour to bring the stubborn fire under control.

- Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr

Allegheny Co. House Fire Stations 168, 167, and 169 quickly knocked down a house fire on November 4, 2018, in Harrison, Allegheny County.

- Fire News photo by Steven Matto

Page 10, Fire News, December 2018

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Allentown Fire Destroys Building

Allentown firefighters were dispatched on October 10, 2018, to a reported structure fire at Franklin and Warren Streets. Dispatched on the initial alarm were BC Williams, Engines 4, 9 and 10, Truck 2 and Engine 6 for RIT. Battalion 43 radioed the 911 Center and advised of smoke showing while responding. Upon arrival, Chief Williams confirmed flames showing and called for a defensive attack with big lines. He then struck a second alarm and requested two mutual aid ladder trucks above the second alarm. A third alarm was struck within minutes bringing the rest of the city apparatus. Eventually, three mutual aid aerial devices and a mutual aid engine operated. Additional personnel from AFD were called in to man four reserve engines and a reserve tower. One reserve engine was brought to the scene while the rest covered the city. At 0100 a rotation began to move fresh personnel to the scene. As of 1500 on Monday, crews were still battling hots spots in the building. The building was scheduled for demolition.

- Fire News photos by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr.

Harrisburg Scrap Fire On October 1, 2018, Wagon 3 and Truck 2 dispatched to Consolidated Scrap Resources on North Cameron Street in Harrisburg for a scrap pile on fire. Upon arrival, Truck 2 reported a large pile involved and requested the balance of the box bringing Squad 8, Tower 1, and Captain 2 to the scene. Companies went in service with aerial operations quickly knocking down fire in a pile of scrap fluff. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman

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Fire News, December 2018, Page 11

Harrisburg Row Fire

At 0351 on November 5, 2018, Harrisburg Box 1-4 sent Squad 8, Wagon 4, Tower 1, Truck 2, and Battalion Chief Lloyd to South 15th Street in Harrisburg for a structure fire. Squad 8 arrived to fire on the first floor and stretched a line. Chief Lloyd assumed incident command and reported a row of 2-1/2 story, wood frame dwellings with fire involving the end home of the row. A first alarm was requested bringing Wagon 3, Rescue 69, Air 69, and Chiefs Enterline and Souder. Crews knocked down a fire involving the walls on the first floor and a second line was used to check for extension to the second floor. The bulk of the fire was knocked down in about 10 minutes.

- Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb

Fatality at Braddock Towers Fire On October 25, 2018, at 0738, firefighters were dispatched to the General Braddock Towers apartment building in North Braddock. When crews arrived, they discovered smoke coming from the 12th floor and the call was upgraded to a full structure fire assignment. When crews arrived on the 12th floor, they found a working fire in one apartment and a male victim was extricated in cardiac arrest; he was pronounced dead at the hospital. Residents on the top three floors were evacuated while others were ordered to shelter in place. The fire was contained to the one apartment.

- Fire News photo by FirstDuePhotography.com

Page 12, Fire News, December 2018

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Lower Burrell Chimney Fire

Lower Burrell 69 and 54, and Arnold 95-1 and 2 crews responded to a chimney fire in Lower Burrell on October 14, 2018. Crews battled the stubborn chimney fire for over an hour, using several tactics to combat the fire without causing extensive water damage to the interior of the home.

- Fire News photo by Steven Matto

Ya’ Just Never Know

Heater Causes Fire in Lancaster Twp. Apartments

The Lancaster Township Fire Department was dispatched on October 27, 2018, along with mutual aid companies, to Wyncroft Lane in the Kensington Club Apartments. The 911 caller explained they had turned on their heating unit for the first time and smoke was coming out the vents. Firefighters found a moderate smoke condition inside a third-floor apartment. Blue Rock Fire Rescue extinguished a fire inside the furnace with two pressurized water cans. New Danville provided ventilation at the front door, and Willow Street Truck 50 used their ladder tower to send their crew to the roof to inspect the HVAC unit for possible extension. Deputy Chief Glenn Usdin reported the fire was contained to the heating unit. Incident commander Chief Ron Comfort, Jr., declared the fire under control.

- Fire News photo by Greg Leaman

McKeesport 2-Alarmer On August 21, 2018, the Herndon Fire Company was dispatched for a fully involved house fire. Upon arrival a small fire in an extremely dilapidated structure was found coming from the electrical service box and spreading up the A-B corner. Crews were “shocked” to find out there was still power service to the structure.

- Fire News photo by Seth Lasko

Quick Stop in Easton

Firefighters from the City of Easton were dispatched to a reported apartment fire on Butler Street. The caller reported an active fire and smoke showing from the fourth floor of an apartment building. Easton’s shift commander confirmed the fire. As crews went to work, a request was made for mutual aid from Wilson Borough.

The second-in engine was ordered to drop an additional supply line and head to the rear of the building. Crews were able to make a quick knock down on the fire and had it under control in about 20 minutes.

- Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr.

Around 2000 on October 31, 2018, City of McKeesport firefighters were dispatched to a residential structure fire located in the area of Grover Avenue. McKeesport’s first engine arrived to find a working fire inside a vacant home and a second alarm was requested.

McKeesport crews made an interior attack and quickly knocked down the fire while crews from the second alarm helped with overhaul. The fire was placed under control in about 20 minutes.

No one was injured and the Allegheny County Fire Marshal was investigating.

- Fire News photo by FirstDuePhotography.com

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Fire News, December 2018, Page 13

Duncannon Boro House Fire

AT 2234 on November 7, 2018, Perry County Box 2-01 alerted Engines 2 and 9, Tankers 2 and 9, Trucks 2 and 32, and Rescue 2 for a house fire on North Market Street in the Borough of Duncannon. Chief Worner, while en route, advised of a caller reporting the back porch on fire. He arrived to fire showing at the rear of a two-story, single-family dwelling and requested Tanker 6, Engine 29-1, Air 35, and Squad 20 for RIT. Rescue 2 arrived and pulled an attack line to a fire in the basement.

Engine 9 grabbed a second line to the first floor. The fire involved all floors in the rear and the attic. The bulk of the fire was knocked down in about 10 minutes and companies opened up walls and ceilings to overhaul and knock down hot spots.

- Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb

Quick Work at Duplex Blaze On October 11, 2018, Stations 95-1 and 2 from Arnold, Lower Burrell 69, and New Kensington 1 and 2 were called to the scene of a fire at a duplex. Crews aggressively attacked the fires that were found throughout the duplex and had the fires out within 20 minutes.

- Fire News photo by Steven Matto

Page 14, Fire News, December 2018

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Vehicle Into Apartment in Lancaster Twp.

The Lancaster Township Fire Department was dispatched at 0540 on November 7, 2018, for an MVA standby for Judie Lane, next to the Village Green apartment complex. The driver just arrived home from dropping off her son at work. She pulled up to the front of her apartment to park the vehicle, but her Jeep “kept going,� noting the harder she pressed the brakes the faster the car went. The Jeep penetrated the building up to the rear wheels, damaging the exterior living room wall and living room area along with the kitchen interior wall and kitchen area. Impact Disaster Services of York, was dispatched to the scene to assess the structural damage and stabilize the building. Lancaster Township code enforcement condemned the first-floor apartment. The damaged apartment was not inhabitable.

- Fire News photo by Greg Leaman

Joliet, Hegins Handle Entrapment On September 21, 2018, the Joliett Fire Company responds to an MVA with reported entrapment. Hegins Rescue was added to the box. Upon arrival, crews found a single mid-sized pickup truck had left the roadway and struck several trees before hitting a larger one head on. The pickup truck came to rest on an angle. Crews worked for an extended period of time to extricate the driver. Due to weather conditions Life Flight was requested but they had declined the flight. However, the medical crew was transported by a ground unit to the scene.

- Fire News photo by Seth Lasko

So. Whitehall Twp. MVA Emergency services personnel responded to the 1800 Block of Mauch Chunk Road in South Whitehall Township after a twovehicle MVA. Personnel arrived on scene to find a car still in the roadway and a SUV down an embankment in the yard of a house.

A female was trapped inside the car and it took rescue crews about 20 minutes to extricate her. Both drivers were taken to area hospitals.

- Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr.

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Fatal 3-Car MVA in Lower Burrell

Fire News, December 2018, Page 15

Lower Burrell was the scene of a fatal three-vehicle head-on crash extricate several patients trapped in their vehicles. on September 16, 2018. Stations 69 and 54 were on scene quickly to - Fire News photo by Steven Matto

Page 16, Fire News, December 2018

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Edwardtown Road MVA

On October 17, 2018, Yeagertown, Reedsville and Fame EMS handled an MVA involving a car over an embankment on Edwardtown Road.

- Fire News photo by Pat Shoop

Middletown School BusTruck Crash Rescue companies from Newportville and Middletown responded to Durham Road and Hollybrooke Drive on October, 25, 2018, for a school bus versus dump truck MVA. The driver of the school bus was not hurt and there were no students aboard. The driver of the dump truck was heavily entrapped and was not removed for about 30 minutes.

- Fire News photo by Alex Lloyd Gross

Millersville University MVA ‌and a Photo Bomb Blue Rock Fire Rescue and Lancaster Township Fire Department was dispatched October 20, 2018, to Creek Drive and East Fredrick Street in Millersville Borough close to Millersville University for a vehicle accident with entrapment. Firefighters found a woman confined in her vehicle, but not trapped. She was quickly extricated by Blue Rock Rescue. The accident scene was near a busy intersection teaming with college student/pedestrians crossing the street. Lancaster Township Fire Department Lt. Greg Leaman waiting to capture an image was presented with a few seconds to grab a clear shot with no walking pedestrians but was photo bombed by a student on a bicycle.

- Fire News photo by Greg Leaman

Guess It Wasn’t Bright Enough On October 25, 2018, the Lower Mahanoy Fire Company was dispatched for a early morning crash under a bright full moon. Upon arrival they found the sole occupant out of the vehicle. The car had left the roadway and come to rest near the railroad tracks. The driver declined treatment.

- Fire News photo by Seth Lasko

Page 18, Fire News, December 2018

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Bensalem MVA Fire and EMS crews in Bensalem removed a woman from a car, after she was injured in a two-vehicle accident on Knights Road in Bensalem. One driver crossed into the other lane and the two vehicles collided in the southbound lane. Both drivers sustained injuries.

- Fire News photo by Alex Lloyd Gross

Medevac for New Kensignton MC Crash On September 19, 2018, Station 56-4 in New Kensington was dispatched to set up an LZ for LifeFlight to transport a patient involved in a single-motorcycle accident.

- Fire News photo by Steven Matto

3 Dead in Allentown Car Explosion Personnel from the City of Allentown along with the FBI and BATFE responded to a car explosion at Hall and Turner Streets on September 28, 2018. It was later determined that a male had taken his own life along with that of his young son and acquaintance.

- Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr.

Task Force 1 Mobilizes Members of PA Task Force 1 were mobilized and deployed for 10 days to Georgia and Florida for work when Hurricane Michael hit the area. The members deployed from the headquarters in Northeast Philadelphia and had a police escort to the state line.

The task force, consisting of 10 vehicles including three tractortrailers, helped keep a hospital running, participated in SAR and did plotting work. Pictured are task force members loading equipment. They were able to be self-sustained for three days and were prepared to work with little sleep, in bad conditions, if need be.

- Fire News photo by Alex Lloyd Gross

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Fire News, December 2018, Page 19

Chicora Trains Members of the Chicora Fire Department in Butler County took part in vehicle fire training at their monthly drill. Members also got a chance to use the new Engine 26-2 with its foam capabilities.

- Fire News photo by Artie Osniak

Canonsburg Updates Its SCBA Canonsburg Volunteer Fire Department recently put into service new G1 MSA Units. Purchased thru Fire Force they have 20 new units, two one-hour RIT Pacs and retro fit the air capabilities in the bucket of their tower.

- Submitted by Tim Solobay

Page 20, Fire News, December 2018

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Vehicle Extrication Training

Crash Course Village hosted vehicle extrication training at Westmoreland County Community College Public Safety Training Center on October 28, 2018. Firefighters from all over the region got hands-on training on five scenarios.

- Fire News photos by Ken Lager

YardleyMakefield Trains YMFC Firefighter Jason Feyko (nozzle) backed up by Lieutenant George Daniello extinguishing a vehicle fire prop.

- Fire News photo by Jeff Goldberg

Harrison Live Burn Drill All three Harrison fire departments attended a live burn at a condemned home that was to be torn down for redevelopment.

Crews repeated interior attack drills throughout the day.

The home was destroyed at the end of the drill.

- Fire News photo by Steven Matto

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Fire News, December 2018, Page 21

Makin’ The Stretch Conference

Makin’ The Stretch is an annual conference hosted by Colonial Park Fire Company that brings prominent and local instructors together to teach the craft. Held October 19 to 21, 2018, courses included “Training Today, Ready Tomorrow” HOT Sessions: Andrew Brassard Take The Door Training - Machinery Rescue The 350 Line Engine Company Ops - “Back to the Basics Jeremy Williams Real Fire Training” - Irons Academy Weiss, Fogg, O’Brien, and Drey - “Prioritizing For Success Lectures” Tim O’Connor - The Successful Short Staffed Engine Jordan Hood The Forgotten Engine Company Culture Jarrod Sergi - Fire Service Mortar Keynote speaker: Dave Leblanc - Firefighter Mindset, Critical Thinking for the Fire Service.

- Fire News photos by Jillian Stewart

Page 22, Fire News, December 2018

Plum Emergency Service Day

On September 30, 2018, all four stations from Plum Borough hosted the Plum Emergency Services Day at Plum High School; 233Unity, 234-Renton, 235-Logan’s Ferry Heights, and 236-Holiday Park, along with a LifeFlight helicopter, Plum Police, and Plum EMS welcomed the public to see their equipment, vehicles, grab a bite to eat, and there were even games for the kids. Chief Anthony Petricca was on hand to show off their new Sutphen engine, and all of the apparatus were on display to show the tools necessary for getting a job done. The weather was great, as well as the turnout.

- Fire News photos by Steven Matto

Showin’ How It’s Done Yardley-Makefield Fire Company put on a vehicle fire demonstration at the 2018 Fire Prevention Open House at the Woodside Fire House- Station 80 on October 12, 2018.

- Fire News photo by Jeff Goldberg

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Fire News, December 2018, Page 23

Gratz Stands By Gratz Fire Company 27 stood by for the Great Gratz Fair Demolition Derby and Tractor Pull.

- Fire News photo

by Seth Lasko

Working Smoke Detectors Save Lives

October 7, 2018, was the start of National Fire Prevention Week. Many fire stations nationwide hold open houses, provide station tours, respond to requests of visiting schools and for some, at the end of the week, those events are tucked away until next year. However, fire prevention and practicing fire safety is something that should be thought of on a daily basis. When stories about fires do reach the media, it should be pointed out that the family did or did not have working smoke detectors. And responders do have to do better reporting these incidents on in-house reporting software (NFIRS). Check that box!

Smoke detectors save lives. The fire service saves lives and protects property. That’s our mission statement. This should be easy. Using the media more and mentioning to a reporter that the working smoke detector did its job or that non-working smoke detectors may have worked if batteries were installed in them or even mentioning the fact that there were no working smoke detectors in place, which could have alerted the family and the fire department quicker.

Social media is a powerful tool as well. Many departments have Facebook pages or Instagram accounts and Twitter feeds. Departments can use these tools to educate people about fire prevention. It doesn’t take much time and the information is readily available through the United States Fire Administration (USFA) and other websites.

I would like to ask a favor of you as a firefighter, line or chief officer.

It's a very simple favor that will only cost you a bit of time. Share these fire safety messages. They’re free! Tag your fellow members and get them to share these important messages. There are many fire safety videos that you can share, as well, and all you have to do is copy and paste and cite your source as applicable. Many of the fire safety messages from the USFA allow fire departments to use their own name in addition to theirs.

We don’t get too much for free these days. However, with regards to reaching the masses with fire safety messages, they are free and in abundance. Fire Prevention Saves Lives! Smoke Detectors Saves Lives! Find those fire safety messages to share and get them out there! And check that box on your fire report. Stay safe and stay smart!

A Holiday Gift From CFSI It’s not too early to think about holiday gifts for your family, friends, customers, and employees. The 2018 Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI) National Fire and Emergency Service Ornament could be the right gift for everyone on your shopping list.

Capturing the holiday spirit and the proud heritage of our nation’s fire service, these beautiful keepsakes are made in the USA! CFSI is offering discount prices for orders of 25 or more. Every ornament you purchase will benefit the work of the Congressional Fire Services Institute. Go to CFSI’s website (www.cfsi.org/product/2018national-fire-service-ornament/) for pricing and ordering.

CFSI recognizes the valuable contributions of FEMSA and FAMA in Washington, DC. Together, the organizations continue educating members of Congress about the challenges and needs of our nation’s fire and emergency services and the equipment and services provided by your industries to address those needs.

If you have any questions about the 2018 National Fire and Emergency Services Ornament, please contact Steven Tramel at 202371-1277 or stramel@cfsi.org.

- Submitted by Bill Webb

Page 24, Fire News, December 2018

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Nat’l. Fallen Firefighters Memorial

On October 7, 2018 at the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial fallen firefighters were honored in the Nationwide Tribute for Service held in Emmitsburg, Maryland, at Memorial Park, 103 Fallen Firefighters.

- Fire News photos by Jillian Stewart

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Fire News, December 2018, Page 25

First Responder Day in Washington Twp.

On September 21, 2018, Washington Township Station 102 hosted a First Responder Day at a Kiski Area Elementary School. Kids got to see and interact with fire, police and EMS crews, explore their vehicles, see hands-on demonstrations, and ask questions. Station 102 had their rescue and ladder trucks, police from Washington, Allegheny and Middlesex Townships showed off their vehicles, riot gear, bulletproof vests, and K-9, Mibo. Darrick Gerano fronted Murrysville Medic One’s ambulance and riverboat rescue units, and Arconic Technology Team brought their Medic 141 Emergency Response ambulance. It was awesome seeing the kid’s expressions while moving from station to station, and they asked some pretty smart safety questions, as well. Firefighters from 102 went over the gear they wear, what to do in a house fire, cutting tools, passed around a thermal imaging camera, and more. This is a well-put together demonstration that could end up saving lives, or piquing the interest of children to join said organizations.

- Fire News photos by Steven Matto

Page 26, Fire News, December 2018

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Briggs, Galinac Tie the Knot

On September 22, 2018, Young Township Assistant Chief Dan Briggs and Captain Nikki Galinac tied the knot. They became engaged in classic firefighter style 11 months to day prior. Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Briggs!

- Fire News photos by Steven Matto

Halloween Trunk or Treat

Station 54 from Lower Burrell and 235 from Logan’s Ferry Heights participated in their annual ‘Trunk or Treat,’ handing out treats to kids in costume.

- Fire News photo by Steven Matto

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Fire News, December 2018, Page 27

Cover Story

Middletown Township Blaze

Firefighters from the Langhorne-Middletown, Penndel, Parkland Township Fire Marshal’s Office was investigating.

- Fire News photo by Jeff Goldberg and Yardley-Makefield battled a dwelling fire on Strawberry Lane in Middletown Township, on November 1, 2018. The Middletown

Page 28, Fire News, December 2018

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CHIEF JOHN M. BUCKMAN III HAS JOINED THE IAMRESPONDING TEAM AS ITS NEW DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENT AND REGIONAL OUTREACH IamResponding.com is pleased to announce that Chief John M. Buckman III has joined the IamResponding team as its new Director of Government and Regional Outreach. IamResponding is excited to have Chief Buckman join its team of emergency services professionals and looks forward to working with Chief Buckman to enhance its current product offerings, and to expand its current customer base of more than 7,500 emergency services entities.

Chief Buckman has served as a volunteer firefighter for 48 years, fire chief for 35 years and association leader for more than 30 years.

He is a past-President of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (2001-2001), he co-founded and served as Chair of the Volunteer and Combination Officers Section of the IAFC from 1988 to 1996, and he was the first ever recipient of Fire Chief Magazine’s Fire Chief of the Year Award in 1996.

Chief Buckman is a co-founder of the National Fire Academy Alumni Association, where he served as Secretary-Treasurer from 1998 through 2014, and he was also the Director of a Fire and Public Safety Academy Training System for 15 years. He has authored over 150 articles in various fire service journals, co-authored the 3rd Edition of Recruiting, Training and Maintaining Volunteer Fire Fighters, Lessons Learned from Fire

Service Leaders, and is the Editor of the Chief Officers Desk Reference.

In joining the IamResponding team, Chief Buckman conveyed that: “I am grateful to the IamResponding team for this opportunity. As a long-time IamResponding user, I know that the IamResponding product serves many valuable functions in our fire and EMS service, including the reduction of emergency response times, the enhancement of pre-scene knowledge and communications, and the easing of staffing burdens. Supplemental dispatch notifications, more effective use of volunteers (whether for all or a portion of the response team), mapping of and routing to the scene, many pre and post-incident reporting functions, and even NFIRS incident reporting can all be accomplished within the IamResponding solution. What I have learned from my use of the IamResponding system is that IamResponding does far more than most people realize, but is very easy to use. I look forward to working closely with the IamResponding team to continue to advance this industry-leading system.”

For more Information about IamResponding’s products and services, please visit www.IamResponding.com or call 877-509-0381.

Chief Buckman may be reached at JBuckman@emergencysmc.com.

FireNews.com

Fire News, December 2018, Page 29

EDITORIAL CHANGES PREPARE FIREHOUSE FOR THE FUTURE

Firehouse is pleased to announce the appointment of Peter Matthews to conference director and acting editor-in-chief of Firehouse, and the promotion of Janelle Foskett to editorial director of Firehouse Magazine and Firehouse.com.

“The positive response to these moves, both internally at Firehouse, and among our many speakers, contributors and instructors, has been incredible,” said Greg Toritto, vice president/group publisher, public safety, Endeavor Business Media. “Both Peter and Janelle possess the necessary tools and leadership skills to ensure Firehouse’s continued growth and success, and to accomplish its mission to best serve our audience, customers, and partners. The fire service has always been about teamwork, and we are excited to name two true team players to these important Firehouse posts.”

Matthews started with Firehouse in 1999 and has served in multiple leadership and management roles throughout his career, making him truly ‘homegrown’ to the Firehouse brand. He has served as the executive editor and editor-in-chief of Firehouse.com, leading a team responsible for Firehouse’s 365-day-a-year digital operation providing news and education to the fire service community. Matthews has also been responsible for Firehouse’s events portfolio, supporting conference development, association partnerships and working with exhibitors to help them with their product and public relations efforts. In addition to his roles at Firehouse, Matthews has worked as a photo editor and photographer at the New York Post.

Matthews was introduced to the fire service by his father, a 59year volunteer firefighter. He volunteered with fire departments in New York and Maryland, holding the rank of lieutenant, and served as photographer for the St. Paul (MN) Fire Department.

Foskett joined the Firehouse team as executive editor in 2015, running the print operations for Firehouse Magazine, including special projects and custom supplements, and working closely with the web team and conference group to build the Firehouse brand. Prior to joining the Firehouse team, Foskett worked in fire service publishing for nearly a decade, managing the print and web operations at FireRescue magazine. She has nearly 20 years of experience in publishing and communications, and has worked as a reporter, writer, communications and social media specialist, and editor.

Matthews and Foskett have been responsible for the day-to-day editorial operations of Firehouse’s publishing franchise for several years. They will continue to lead a team that truly understands that its responsibility to serve our readers, the industry, and our contributors, is first and foremost.

Matthews and Foskett will assume their new roles immediately. Timothy E. Sendelbach, who had served as Firehouse’s editor-in-chief and conference director, has resigned. Firehouse would like to thank Tim for his contributions as a member of the Firehouse team, and wish him luck in his future endeavors.

In addition to the leadership changes above, Firehouse has also announced the following appointments and promotions: Steven Shaw has been promoted to senior editor, Firehouse.

Steven will take on an expanded role focused on magazine production and special projects.

John Kosik has been named senior editor, Firehouse. In addition to his prior responsibilities as an associate editor, John will oversee the day-to-day operations for Firehouse.com.

Associate editor Ed Ballam’s role will expand to include additional digital and print assignments, as well as special projects.

Page 30, Fire News, December 2018

FireNews.com

Up Close & Personal

Fully involved in Pittsburgh.

- Fire News photo by FirstDuePhotography.com

Big commercial blaze in New Kensington.

- Fire News photo by Steven Matto Palmerton Chief Kish at a mixed use blaze.

- Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr.

Canonsburg Volunteer Fire Department members with their new equipment.

- Submitted by Tim Solobay

A member of Task Force 1 returning after a 10-day deployment to Florida in the wake of Hurricane Michael. This was the second time in two months the task force was called for a hurricane.

- Fire News photo by Alex Lloyd Gross

One person displaced in kitchen fire.

- Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb

Heater causes fire in Lancaster Township apartments.

- Fire News photo by Greg Leaman