Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Since 1973 VOLUME 6, NO.4
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
SEPTEMBER 2016
Story on page 17. -Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr.
Never Forget 9/11 15 Years of Progress see pages 4, 7, 31
-Pennsylvania Edition-
Page 2, Fire News, September 2016
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Fire News, September 2016, Page 3
In this issue... East Lansdowne Blaze On May 25, 2016, companies dispatched for a reported dwelling fire on Beverly Street in East Lansdowne. See story page 8
Electrical Fire in Mt. Lebanon On August 3, 2016, a call came in for smoke coming from a commercial structure in the business district of See story page 10 Mt. Lebanon.
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
Deck Fire in Lower Allen Township Cumberland County Box 12-09 summoned companies to Ravenwood Road in Lower Allen Township for a deck fire. See story page 14
Salisbury 3-Alarmer
Salisbury firefighters responded to Public Road in Salisbury Twp. for a fire in a two-story, single-family dwelling. See story page 16
Medevac at 1-Car MVA
Yardley-Makefield Fire Company and Newtown Emergency Services Dept. extricated a driver from a single-vehicle accident. See story page 21
Silo Rescue in East Earl Township Crews from Co. 39, 30, 17-1, EMS units from 37 and Medic 04-40 respond for a person who had fallen in a silo. See story page 24
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, DONALD THOMA, JAYSON WAGNER, ASHLEY WALTERS, FRANK WESNOSKI, DENNIS WETHERHOLD, JR. COLUMNS KRAIG HERMAN, TIM SOLOBAY COPYRIGHT 2012, THE FIRE NEWS LLC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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PLUS:
Fire News Mourns the Line of Duty Deaths of:
Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4
Michael Morgan - Garrettford Drexel Hill Volunteer Fire Company
Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pages 25-27 Up Close & Personal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 33 Special Features Industry News
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 34
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 35
Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 35
Donald R. Ishman Hilltop Volunteer Fire Department Gabriel G. Lee - Philadelphia Fire Department May these Heroes Rest in Peace
Page 4, Fire News, September 2016
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
Box 5-5-8087,
15 Years Later NYC Box 5-5-8087 was the location of the WTC attack. I am sure you know this. This was the alarm box that summoned the Fire Department of the City of New York to the World Trade Center for a plane that crashed into Tower One. Ironically, WTC 1, or the North Tower, was the first of the twin towers to be completed, the first to be hit by a plane on September 11, and the last to be destroyed. This horrific day has been in our minds for the past 15 years. Yes, that’s right, the attack on the World Trade Center happened 15 years ago. Unlike other attacks that still continue throughout the world, the September 11 attack still haunts us by claiming lives through cancer. If you have learned anything from this dark day, remember that every call you go on must be taken seriously and responded to with caution. Simply put,
❏ PENNSYLVANIA
never leave your guard down and wear your PPE all of the time. As in the past, I pause to give remembrance to the firefighters I personally knew who died on 9/11. I think of all of the families that were broken apart by this tragic day. I commend Commissioner Daniel A. Nigro, Chief of Department James Leonard, along with the numerous chiefs, officers, firefighters and friends in government, who always come to the memorial ceremonies to support the families that have lost loved ones. On September 11, 2016, start your day with prayer to remember the families whose lives were sadly changed as a result of the attack on the World Trade Center. I still close my eyes and in horror, can clearly see the pile that took away lives and continues to destroy families. Fortunately, the current World Trade Center complex is a
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proud tribute to this terrible day. The 16-acre site, the purpose of which is to remember the fallen with dignity, is a reality. When you find the time to visit the area, remember that it is place to reflect and pray for the families who lost their lives. I hope the purpose of this beautiful area, which took 15 years to complete, never falls to commercialization. Our families and the families of the future must always remember September 11, 2001. Visit the site, learn from it and say a prayer for the names that are engraved at the site. This year, we remember 9/11 through the progress that has occurred over the past 15 years. Thank you to photographer Steve Spak, who has followed the development of this newly created complex over the years and has shared them with Fire News so our readers can be part of the rebuilt area. -Dennis
Page 6, Fire News, September 2016
PA F I R E C O M M I S S I O N E R
Grant Deadline Looms
by Tim Solobay We begin this month’s edition on a very solemn note. Saturday July 23, 2016, ended up being a very sad day for Pennsylvania Fire Service as we lost two brothers in separate incidents, at different ends of the state. Saturday morning former Chief Donald Ishman of the Hilltop Volunteer Fire Department of McKean County passed away after an incident in the fire station. Later in the day, Philadelphia Firefighter Gabriel Lee was found unconscious in the workout room of his station and was pronounced a short time later. Both were dedicated firefighters who gave all to their communities, and both passed away doing what they loved, being firefighters. Wonderful services were held for both, which we attended and presented Memorial Flags to both families and to the departments. RIP Brothers, we got the line from here. When this edition comes out we will be in the final days of this past year’s grant period and hopefully all of you who received grants have submitted your final reports. Don’t wait till the last day to get those in! If you are having trouble, please call the office and let us know so we can help get you closed out so it doesn’t affect the next year’s grant. The number to call is the main line at the office (717-651-2201). This will get you to Robin who can then get you in touch with someone from the grants area. Also, remember: beginning with the 2017-2018 grant period, the enforcement of actively reporting incidents to OSFC will be done. Currently we have over 700 departments that are NOT reporting. We have e-mailed a list of non-reporting department to Legislators to help us contact them and get them aboard. Over the last few months, we have asked you to contact Kraig Herman and advise him which system you are using — either the state provided Emergency Reporting system, Firehouse or some other system. Some departments have complied with this request, most have not. WE STILL NEED TO KNOW THIS INFORMATION! So please, contact Kraig to with this information (krherman@pa.gov or 717-6512209). Many departments have been doing the reports but not submitting them. Kraig can also help with this. Contact him for instructions on how to submit your data. I cannot say this enough, failure to actively report your incidents beginning next year for the 2017-18 grant year, non-reporting departments will not be able to receive Fire Grants till they come into compliance. I hate to be repetitive on this but we don’t want anyone losing. This year’s guidelines for the grants have some new features we were very happy to work out with the House committee and grateful that the senate agreed on the changes. Here are some of those, but please read through the guidelines carefully when the grant period comes up on line early this month (September 2016). Instead of a five-year period that merged companies have to apply separately for grants, it has been extended to 10 years; The number of certified members to be included for extra credit have gone from 10 members to 20 members; Fuel costs are now an allowable use of grant funds as well as fire prevention and educational materials for fire safety; We have also been given the authority to work with career departments to allow for overtime costs associated with back filling stations when firefighters have been sent for training. I would like to thank the Legislature for adopting these changes and also for continuing the grant program for another four years. In other legislative news, some long awaited legislation passed this June will hopefully bring an end to some controversy as it pertains to response lighting in chiefs and assistant chiefs department and personal vehicles. While we were not able to make the changes for volunteers and blue lights yet, we did get half the loaf. The law now states that chiefs and assistant chiefs are allowed both interior and additional exterior lighting in both company and personal vehicles. This is an improvement over the former law of one light on top of vehicle viewable from 360 degrees. This unfortunately is the stated law for volunteers and their blue lights. Added into the legislation, though, is a condition that by April 1 of ever year, the fire commissioner is to report back to Penndot on new Continued on page 31.
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PA Fire Academy Update By George Stapleton, PA Fire Academy Administrator Last month, the Pennsylvania State Fire Academy (PSFA) conducted the 35th anniversary of the Pennsylvania Weekend at the National Fire Academy (NFA). We processed 250 registrations representing 36 counties. The top 10 in attendance were Allegheny Co. (33 students), Bucks (24), Lancaster (19), Cumberland (15), Monroe (13), Dauphin and Northampton (11 each) and Chester, Schuylkill and York (10 each). Congratulations to PSFA staff members Terri Brooks and Bruce Trego and the NFA staff for putting on another great weekend. To Guy Arndt; Robert Lipsky, Jr.; Mark Wineland; and Danny Brooks; thanks for handling registration. To our co-sponsor, the Pennsylvania Fire and Emergency Services Institute, thanks for your fifth year of co-sponsoring. Special thanks to the Tullytown Fire Company Honor Guard, Rev. Joel Hummel, bugler Howard Reitenbaugh, Southwestern PA Pipes and Drums, and to Randy Isenberg, Raymond Keller III, Mike Swartz, Steve Cronin and John Kelly for assisting with the memorial service, and especially to everyone who attended. If you’ve never attended the annual PA Weekend at the NFA, please save the dates for the 36th PA Weekend at the NFA being held July 2223, 2017. The application process opens in the spring of 2017. Next year’s classes are available on our website at www.osfc.pa.gov. Moving on ... This month I want to share with you a valuable fire safety and prevention training resource. Have you ever been asked to give a fire safety presentation to a local community group, or a group visiting your fire station, open house, etc., and wondered where you could find the most complete information? The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has created an Educational Messages Advisory Committee that includes fire safety professionals who meet periodically and provide recommendations to NFPA’s public education staff for updating and revising fire safety educational messages, which are intended to be used by the fire and emergency services to provide accurate and consistent language for public fire and life safety education. The NPFA consolidates these messages into a published document called Educational Fire Safety Messages Desk Reference (dated 2015). This is a free resource document available on our website (www.osfc.pa.gov) under the link called “Fire Service Resources.” This desk reference has 18 chapters with numerous messages related to home smoke alarms and sprinklers, carbon monoxide, fire escape, cooking, smoking, electrical, candles, outside burning, portable fire extinguishers and much more. Each topic area is self-contained, written so that all the information needed on a certain subject is provided within that category. With Fire Prevention week (October 9-15, 2016) rapidly approaching; and this year’s campaign theme: “Don’t Wait - Check the Date! Replace Smoke Alarms Every 10 Years,” this desk reference document can be very useful. Only a small percentage of people know how old their smoke alarms are, or even how often they need to be replaced. By looking at the date manufacture on the back of the alarm, the alarm should be replaced 10 years from that date. For more fire safety information and instructional tools, go towww.nfpa.org/education. During a NFA Professional Development Conference, a speaker shared a unique way one Northeastern fire department was using emergency response to educate residents by providing a quick (no more than a five minute) fire prevention lesson/instruction on smoke alarms. During a response, once the incident was declared under control, all manpower would exit their apparatus and immediately engage with the residents in the neighborhood. They asked if the residents had any questions about fire/home safety or their response. Before leaving, they asked if they could check their smoke detector to ensure they were working properly. This fits very nicely with this year’s theme, as you can also show them how to check the expiration date of the smoke alarm. This provides a venue for spreading a fire safety message without much additional effort). It is not only a valuable public relations and fire prevention tool, but it could also be an effective recruitment tool. If your department already carries spare smoke detectors and batteries on the apparatus, “on-the-spot” installations can easily be done. Try it when you enter a home regardless of the reason. Remember this is voluntary, so people may say “no.” Make this as an educational opportunity, not an enforcement one. Let me know your results. Until next month, stay cool, stay hydrated and most importantly stay safe, because “Safety is no Accident, Train to be Safe.”
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Fire News, September 2016, Page 7
15 Years of Progress Remembers 9/11 - Fire News photos by Steve Spak
9/11 coverage continued on Page 31.
‘A Ball, a Homer and the Healing of America’
Page 8, Fire News, September 2016
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East Lansdowne Blaze
On May 25, 2016, companies dispatched for a reported dwelling fire on Beverly Street in East Lansdowne. Upon arrival, crews had smoke showing from the second floor. They advanced a handline and knocked down the second floor fire but reported extension to the attic. Shortly after, command reported fire venting through the roof. Several more handlines were put in service and there was extensive opening up required. - Fire News photos by Frank Wesnoski
Apartment Building Fire
On July 24, 2016, the Lewistown Fire Department arrived at a working fire on the top floor of an apartment building on Chestnut Street. - Fire News photo by Pat Shoop
Page 10, Fire News, September 2016
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Solar Panels Complicate Firefight
Firefighters from the Alpha Fire Company of Littlestown, and Southeastern Adams Volunteer Emergency Services (SAVES) of Hanover, operated at a working commercial building fire on June 19, 2016, where a fire was reported on the roof, which was covered with solar panels, presenting a unique situation and challenge. - Fire News photo by 911 Photography
Electrical Fire in Mt. Lebanon
Fatality After W. Hempfield Twp. Blaze
On August 3, 2016, a call came in for smoke coming from the wall at a commercial structure in the business district of Mt. Lebanon, a southern suburb of Pittsburgh. A haze in the building with an unspecified source prompted a second alarm for an RIT unit and additional manpower to locate the source. A faulty electrical connection in an area being renovated was the culprit. - Fire News photo by Ken Lager
West Hempfield Fire Rescue was dispatched to a house fire on Todd Lane in West Hempfield Township on July 7, 2016. Arriving firefighters found the home engulfed in flames. Once the fire was extinguished, a 46-year-old male was found dead in an upstairs bedroom, said Township Police Chief Mark Pugliese. The blaze destroyed the house in which he lived alone. State police fire marshals classified the fire as arson, Pugliese said, but the cause and manner of death were under investigation. A propane tank inside the garage exploded, causing a loud boom that woke neighbors, Pugliese said. Part of the propane tank was found nearly a block away. Several paint cans also exploded. No one was struck by any debris and no other injuries were reported, said Pugliese. The intense fire melted the vinyl siding off a neighbor’s home. Shingles on a shed on another neighboring property sustained heat damage. - Fire News photo by Greg Leaman
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Fire News, September 2016, Page 11
Hay Fire in Dauphin Co.
On July 24, 2016, Dauphin County Box 33-8, dispatched Company down in 30 minutes but remained on the scene for an extended 33 (Colonial Park) to N. 67th Street and Lyters Lane for a large hay period. Excavation equipment eventually arrived to pull apart the bale fire. Engine 33 arrived and laid in from a hydrant at 67th and hay so all hot spots could be wet down. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb Lyters. Companies were able to get the bulk of the fire knocked
Page 12, Fire News, September 2016
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House Fire on Bluebird Dr.
Firefighters from the Yardley-Makefield Fire Company, and Levittown Fire Company #1 (RIT) were recently dispatched to Tactical Box 80-31 for a dwelling fire on Bluebird Drive. (Left): Yardley-Makefield Fire Company Firefighters Amy Chamberlain (nozzle) and Chris Pettinati in service with a hose line extinguishing the July 4, 2016, fire. - Fire News photo by Jeff Goldberg
Dance Studio Fire in Bensalem On July 11, 2016, firefighters responded to a fire in a dance studio on Atlantic Avenue in Bensalem. - Fire News photo by Alex Lloyd Gross
Norwood House Fire Companys 02, 05, 08, 43 and RIT 09 were dispatched to W. Ridley Avenue in Norwood for a report of smoke in a building. Police reported smoke showing from the third floor. Ladder 43 arrived at the large, three-story, single-family house to fire showing from the third floor, and stretched a line. Company 48 and RIT 19 were added to the assignment. Crews made an interior attack with several handlines. No aerials were able to make the roof due to electrical wires and truck companies reported that the overhang to the roof was compromised and recommended against going on the roof. Extensive overhaul from the interior was required. - Fire News photo by Frank Wesnoski
8 Homeless in E. Hempfield Twp. Fire Rohrerstown Fire Company responded to a house fire on Banner Drive in East Hempfield Township on July 8, 2016 . Initial reports were for a fire in the garage which quickly spread up the side of the house into the third floor and attic/roof of the home. Deputy Chief Craig Irwin, said the family had used fireworks earlier in the evening, then disposed of them in a trash bin in the garage. The house, garage and two vehicles were destroyed by the blaze. Radiant heat melted the vinyl siding of a neighboring home. East Petersburg Truck 23 extinguished the bulk of the flames with their
elevated master stream. Assisting were Mountville, East Petersburg, Hempfield, Blue Rock Fire Rescue, West Hempfield, Manheim Twp. Fire Rescue, Lancaster Township, Mount Joy Fire Companies. - Fire News photo by Greg Leaman
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Fire News, September 2016, Page 13
Page 14, Fire News, September 2016
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Upper Saucon Township House Fire
Upper Saucon firefighters responded to a fast moving fire in a home on Forest Drive on March 30, 2016. The home was destroyed and the fire went to two alarms and required drafting and tankers. - Fire News photo by Jayson Wagner
Deck Fire in Lower Allen Township On June 12, 2016, Cumberland County Box 12-09 summoned companies to Ravenwood Road in Lower Allen Township for a deck fire. A first-alarm assignment consisted of Engines 12 (Lower Allen), 23 (Upper Allen) and 22 (Shiremanstown); Truck 12 (Lower Allen); and Rescues 12 (Lower Allen) and 30 (Hampden Township). Engine 1-12 arrived and laid a supply line to side A and led off with deck gun operations. Heavy fire involved the rear of the two-story, unoccupied dwelling and Command 12 requested defensive operations. Multiple handlines and aerial operations from Truck 12 knocked down the bulk of the fire in about 30 minutes with extensive overhaul required. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
Middletown Township House Fire Firefighters from the Langhorne-Middletown, Penndel, Yardley-Makefield and Parkland (RIT) were dispatched to Tactical Box 21-04 on July 4, 2016, for a dwelling fire in Middletown Township on Langhorne-Yardley Road. - Fire News photo by Jeff Goldberg
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Fire News, September 2016, Page 15
PO Makes Nice Save in E. Cocalico Twp.
On July 13, 2016, Box Alarm 17-03 was transmitted for a house fire with people trapped on Wabash Road in East Cocalico Township. On arrival, the East Cocalico Twp. PD confirmed the reports of a person trapped inside the mobile home. Officer David Fisher pushed a window A/C unit inside the home to rescue the homeowner. Companies from Stevens, Reamstown and Denver arrived as the rescue was taking place and deployed multiple lines. Crews rescued several animals and did a quick knock down of the fire. During the rescue and fire attack, multiple home oxygen cylinders exploded. Crews remained on scene for about two hours to assist PSP on their investigation of the fire. The homeowner was transported to a local hospital, treated and released. - Fire News photo by Chris Haldeman
Homes Damaged in Catasauqua Firefighters from numerous departments battled an early morning multiple-alarm fire on Race Street in Catasauqua that damaged several houses on the block. - Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr.
Page 16, Fire News, September 2016
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Pickup Fire in E. Cocalico Township
On July 29, 2016, a street assignment was transmitted for a vehicle fire on the ramp to northbound Route 222 at George Howard Boulevard in East Cocalico Township. Engine 17-1 (Reamstown) arrived to find a well-involved pickup truck. The company deployed one line and had the fire under control in minutes. Tanker 17-3 (Stevens) assisted the engine crew on scene. - Fire News photo by Chris Haldeman
Salisbury 3-Alarmer Recently, Salisbury firefighters responded to Public Road in Lehigh County’s Salisbury Township for a fire in a two-story, single-family dwelling. Firefighters were met with a fully involved house and the fire eventually went to three alarms. - Fire News photo by Jayson Wagner
Stubborn Car Fire in Derry Twp. On July 3, 2016, Dauphin County Box 48-2 sent Company 48 (Hershey) and Engine 46 (Hummelstown) to the intersection of W. Hersheypark Drive and Walton Avenue in Derry Township for a vehicle fire. Police on location reported a working vehicle fire. Engine 46 arrived to find a minivan fire, secured a hydrant and stretched two lines, knocking down the stubborn, gas-fed fire in about 20 minutes. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
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Fire News, September 2016, Page 17
Cover Story
Coplay 2-Alarm
Firefighters from Coplay and Whitehall battled a two-alarm fire at the old General Supply Company on Bridge Street in Coplay on June 12, 2016. - Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr.
Page 18, Fire News, September 2016
Mayday at Coopersburg 2-Alarm
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On June 13, 2016, firefighters were called to a shed fire on East Station Street. The fire was quickly put out. About eight hours later they were recalled to the same address. Chief 4 arrived to heavy fire showing from the apartment house and called for a second alarm. During the ensuing fight a firefighter signaled a Mayday when he became trapped on the second floor. With the help of other firefighters, he was able to escape through a window. The fire was under investigation. -Fire News photo by Jayson Wagner
Fast Work at Harrisburg Garage Fire On June 16, 2016, Box 1-3 sent Harrisburg City Squad 8, Wagon 3, Towers 1,2, and Chief 5 to Logan Street for a structure fire. County Fire advised that it was a garage next to the house and the address was in the 300 block of Clinton Street. Squad 8 and Tower 2 were on City Island at the time and reported a thermal column en route. Chief 5 arrived to find a one-story garage well involved with no extension to the attached dwelling. Wagon 3 secured water and companies led off with a 2-1/2 inch line to knock down the bulk of fire in five minutes. - Fire News photo by Jason Coleman-Cobb
6 Homes Destroyed in Whitehall 3-Alarm Whitehall firefighters responded to a three-alarm fire in a row of townhomes on the 3300 Block of S. 3rd Street in Whitehall on June 30, 2016. The fire destroyed six of the townhomes. - Fire News photo by Geoffrey Wetherhold
Playing Now: Trash Compactor Fire Lancaster Township Fire Department responded to a trash compactor fire at the movie theater in the Manor Shopping Center in Lancaster Township on July 7, 2016. A passerby noticed smoke issuing from a trash compactor at the rear of the building. The Good Samaritan went inside the theater and informed an employee. On arrival, firefighters opened the compactor door and were met with flames. Firefighters de-energized the equipment and released a door to access the burning trash. The fire was contained to the loading area of the machinery, which was not damaged. - Fire News photo by Greg Leaman
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Fire News, September 2016, Page 19
Vacant House Fire Draws a Crowd
Firefighters from the Newtown Fire Association, Upper Makefield, Northampton, Lingohocken, Yardley-Makefield (coverage), and Langhorne-Middletown (coverage) were dispatched for a vacant building fire on Stoopville Road in the area of Eagle Road on July 17, 2016. - Fire News photo by Jeff Goldberg
Bail Out at Bethlehem 3-Alarmer On May 26, 2016, the Bethlehem Fire Department was call to E. 8th Street for a house fire. Two fire ighters became trapped on the second floor of the three-story house and receieved minor injuries when they bailed out. The fire eventually went to three alarms. - Fire News photo by Jayson Wagner
Page 20, Fire News, September 2016
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Hot Day, Hot Fire, Quick Work On August 12, 2016, the Denver Fire Company and multiple mutual aid departments were dispatched to Main Street in Denver Borough for a report of a house fire. Chief 13 arrived to find fire showing from the C/D corner as well as heavy smoke showing. Crews made quick work of the fire, knocking down the bulk of the fire and spent several hours doing overhaul operations. Due to the heat index being over 100 degrees additional manpower was requested to rotate crews. - Fire News photo by Chris Haldeman
3 FF Injured at Emmaus Blaze Firefighters from numerous fire departments assisted the Emmaus Fire Department on a two-alarm house fire on Chestnut Street on June 3, 2016. Three firefighters were injured battling the fire. - Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr.
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Fire News, September 2016, Page 21
Medevac at 1-Car MVA
Firefighters from the Yardley-Makefield Fire Company and Newtown Emergency Services Department recently extricated a driver from a single-vehicle accident on Taylorsville Road. The driver was transported to an LZ by Yardley-Makefield Emergency Unit and flown to Saint Mary Medical Center via Temple MedFlight. - Fire News photo by Jeff Goldberg
2 Injured in E. Hempfield Twp. Rohrerstown Fire Company assisted by East Petersburg Rescue 23 and East Petersburg Fire Police were dispatched to an accident on Harrisburg Pike on August 10, 2016, in East Hempfield Township. A 27-year-old woman and a fiveyear-old girl were injured and a large array of utility lines were left dangling when their car sheared a pole. The woman and girl, who are from the Lancaster area, were transported to Lancaster General Hospital for treatment but their injuries did not appear serious, according to East Hempfield Township Police Officer Ethan Etter. - Fire News photo by Greg Leaman
Page 22, Fire News, September 2016
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Lewistown MVA On July 20, 2016, Fame EMS arrived to find a two-vehicle accident with one vehicle overturned at Lewistown Market and Dorcas Street. - Fire News photo by Pat Shoop
Feasterville Responds to Fatal MVA Feasterville Fire Company stands-by at a fatal automobile-versus-pedestrian investigation in August. - Fire News photo by Dawn Altstatt
Car Into Sign, Then Tree. Cat Lives On July 3, 2016, the Lancaster Township Fire Department was dispatched to a single-car accident for spill control in front of Buchanan Elementary School at Maple and S. West End Avenue. The driver stated to a witness, who stopped to assist, that he swerved to miss hitting a cat. A street sign on the corner of the intersection was knocked over and landed on top of the car before the car hit the tree. - Fire News photo by Greg Leaman
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Fire News, September 2016, Page 23
Announcements CHARLES HENRY AND IVAN MEEKER AWARDS: NOMINATIONS WANTED
A letter of nomination (200-500 words) must: Detail how the nominee has demonstrated leadership in promoting issues of importance to the fire, emergency-services or life-safety communities, either as a volunteer or employed by self, a private company or a government agency; Specify how the candidate achieved at least ONE of the following goals: improved readiness of fire or emergency services at any level of government, strengthened public safety by developing and delivering effective educational programs, or acted as a catalyst to improve fire and emergency services in some other specific way At least one letter of support from a public official familiar with the candidate’s leadership in fire, emergency-services or life-safety issues must be submitted with the nomination.
The Pennsylvania Fire and Emergency Services Institute is pleased to announce the opening of nominations for The Charles A. ‘Chet’ Henry Fire Service Advocacy Award and the Ivan Meeker Leadership Award. The awards annually recognize those who have improved awareness of fire, emergency-service or life-safety issues, whether at a local, county, regional, state or national level. Nominations may be submitted until September 15, 2016. Ivan Meeker Leadership Award Nominations may be e-mailed to pfesi@verizon.net or mailed to PFESI, This is presented to an individual who has exhibited excellence in 223 State Street, Harrisburg, PA 17101. leadership abilities to this organization their communities, our commonThe winner will be announced at the 25th Annual PFESI Dinner on wealth or the nation. The award is to be presented annually in November November 21, 2016. More information on our conference and dinner is to a deserving nominee exhibiting the leadership abilities and traits. available at pfesi.org. or calling 717-236-5995 The criteria for nomination for this award are as follows: The nominee must have exhibited excellence in leadership qualities and abilities; Charles A. ‘Chet’ Henry A narrative must be included with the nomination explaining the reason Fire Service Advocacy Award for nomination; Nominations may be submitted by September 15, 2016. This annually recognizes one who has improved awareness of fire, Nominations may be emailed to pfesi@verizon.net or mailed to PFESI, emergency-service or life-safety issues, whether at a local, county, 223 State Street, Harrisburg, PA 17101. regional, state or national level. Established in 2015 by the The winner will be announced at the Annual PFESI Dinner on Pennsylvania Fire and Emergency Services Institute (PFESI), the award November 19, 2016. More information on our conference and dinner is encourages emergency service advocates to develop and maintain lead- available at pfesi.org. or calling 717-236-5995. The honoree will be ership that strives to improve public safety across Pennsylvania and the selected at the sole discretion of the Selection Committee, which shall country. consist of three members of the PFESI State Wide Advisory Board Anyone from the fire, emergency-service or life-safety community (SWAB). can be nominated for the PFESI Charles A. "Chet" Henry Fire Service — Don Konkle, PFESI Executive Director, 717-236-5995 Advocacy Award. One may NOT nominate oneself.
Page 24, Fire News, September 2016
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Silo Rescue in East Earl Township
On July 18, 2016, a rescue assignment was transmitted for a silo rescue on Division Highway in East Earl Township. Crews from Company 39 (Garden Spot Fire/Rescue), 30 (Weaverland Valley), 17-1 (Reamstown), EMS units from 37 (New Holland) and Medic 04-40 (Wellspan) were advised of a person who had fallen in a silo and was unable to get out. Companies arrived and confirmed a person trapped about 15 feet from the top of the silo. Crews set up rope rescue operations as well as confined space operations to reach the person and raised him to the top of the silo from where he was brought down with the ladder tower’s bucket. EMS crews transported him to a local hospital for a check-up. - Fire News photo by Chris Haldeman
Lanacaster Fire Police Assist Police After Shots Fired Lancaster Township Fire Police assisted Lancaster City Police on July 25, 2016, by closing Manor Street from Dorwart Street to West King Street after someone fired shots into an occupied home in southwest Lancaster City. Two men were sitting on the front steps of a home on East Filbert Street with several adults and children in the backyard. Witnesses heard someone say, “What the f--- are you looking at?” and then a gunshot. The witness began moving people from the backyard into the kitchen when four more gunshots were heard. Bullets struck the front door of the home, narrowly missing the two males on the front steps. Police charged a 17-year-old teen who lived a block away with illegal possession of a firearm, possession of a firearm by a minor, recklessly endangering another person, shooting a firearm into an occupied structure, and shooting a firearm in Lancaster City. He was arraigned and detained at the county’s youth intervention center. - Fire News photo by Greg Leaman
Lucky Driver in Manor Township Blue Rock Fire Rescue responded to a single-vehicle accident with reported entrapment and ejection on July 1, 2016. The driver of a pickup truck was flown to Hershey Medical Center by helicopter following the single-car accident in the 3600 block of River Road, between Safe Harbor and Pittsburg Hill roads in Manor Township. According to Blue Rock Fire Rescue Fire Chief Mike Ditzler, the lone occupant was located underneath the truck in a drainage ditch. Blue Rock Fire Rescue firefighters had to stabilize the vehicle before the patient could be removed. The patient was transported by ambulance to Blue Rock Fire Rescue Station 3 in Highville, a short distance from the crash scene, where the Hershey Medical Center Life Lion helicopter was waiting. The man was treated for head injuries before being flown to Hershey Medical Center. - Fire News photo by Greg Leaman
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Fire News, September 2016, Page 25
Training
Tech Training in Hanover Borough
Members of the York County ATR team trained in Hanover Borough on shoring up building walls using Raker Shores as well as cutting through concrete floors and block walls with the Stanley Cutting System as well as Pak hammers. The York County ATR team consists of members from the Hanover, Yoe, Dover Township and Shrewsbury Fire Departments. - Fire News photos by 911 Photography
Page 26, Fire News, September 2016
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Training
Tech Rescue Training Water rescue training with the SHACOG Technical Rescue team on the Ohio River, south of Pittsburgh, on July 27, 2016. Team members worked on inflatable boat navigation, teamwork and communication. - Fire News photo by Ken Lager
Hydraulic Tool Drill at Woodside Firefighters from the Yardley-Makefield Fire Company and Newportville Fire Company recently participated in a Hurst rescue tool drill at the Woodside Fire House - Station 80. - Fire News photo by Jeff Goldberg
Master Stream Training in Lancaster Township On August 8, 2016, the Lancaster Township Fire Department conducted master stream training. The training was conducted by Deputy Chief Glenn Usdin in the Southern Village Community off of Wabank Road in Lancaster Township. Lancaster Township Engine 661 secured a hydrant and supplied Engine 66-3 with water via LDH. Lancaster Township Engine 66-3 laid a supply line to Lancaster Township Truck 66. This scenario is a common occurrence within Lancaster Townships district. - Fire News photo by Greg Leaman
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Fire News, September 2016, Page 27
Training
Forcible Entry Training Forcible entry training with the South Baldwin Fire Department, south of Pittsburgh. - Fire News photos by Ken Lager
Roof Operations Training in Hanover Penn Township Fire Department Captain Miller observes, while assisting Hanover Firefighter J. Lalley as he cuts a roof of a commercial building. - Fire News photo by 911 Photography
Page 28, Fire News, September 2016
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Community Involvement
Mt. Lebanon Fire Department participated in a Touch-A-Truck show them around the ladder truck. event. Sparky the Fire Dog was on hand to welcome the kids and - Fire News photo by Ken Lager
Fayette County Fireman’s Convention
The 78th Annual Fayette County Fireman’s Convention in Fayette County Pennsylvania July 13 through 16, 2016. - Fire News photos by Artie Osniak
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Fire News, September 2016, Page 29
Battle of the Barrel The battle of the barrel during the Huntingdon County Firemen’s Convention. - Fire News photo by Curtis Jury
Bristol Township Fire Police Most Active Awards Members of the Bristol Township Fire Police gave their Most Active awards during their annual picnic. (Left to right): John Nichols, John Gould, Ed Margavich, Dawn Altstatt and Alex Gross. - Submitted by Alex Lloyd Gross
Page 30, Fire News, September 2016
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4 Hermitage Firefighters Wed
FF Katie Pepe and FF Chris Conn wed on May 20.
In the span of just a few weeks, 10 percent of the active members of the Hermitage Fire Department in western Pennsylvania tied the knot ... and we don't mean a bowline! Firefighter Katie Pepe and Firefighter Chris Conn exchanged their marriage vows on Friday afternoon, May 20, 2016, at Hermitage’s R.S. Goeltz Station 1. Four-inch hoses formed an aisle in the apparatus bays, and boots filled with flowers added a splash of color. Then on July 2, 2016, Firefighter Aurelia (Rae) Cheney and Firefighter Adam Prather were married at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ in Hermitage. Following the ceremony, they rode off aboard Ladder 411. Fire Chaplain David Williamson officiated at both ceremonies. - Submitted by David Williamson
FF Rae Cheney and FF Adam Prather tied the knot on July 2.
Lancaster Township Fire Department Holds Community Day Event
The Lancaster Township Fire Department held a community day event on June 18, 2016. The purpose of the event was to provide public safety education and showcase the fire department’s capabilities. Along with Lancaster Township Fire Department activities on display, other groups attending were Lancaster County HazMat Team, the Lancaster County Fireman’s Association safety trailer, the Manheim Township Fire Rescue bounce house, the Lancaster County Wide Communication 911 Dispatch Center, Lancaster EMS, Crossway Church, Middle Creek Search and Rescue, Lancaster SPCA and Manheim Township Police K9 unit. Fire department activities included a vehicle rescue demonstration, lad-
der tower and engine rides and a chance to handle a hoseline, a fire police display, and a rescue truck display. Fire department mugs and t-shirts were available for purchase. Lancaster County HazMat 2 displayed their air conditioned rehab tents and apparatus. LCFA operates a fire safety trailer for public fire education at no cost to the member organizations and their schools, day care centers and community groups. Lancaster EMS provided CPR training, and Crossway Church provided face painting and cold water. Lancaster SPCA brought two dogs for possible adoption and Manheim Township Police K9 unit provided a K9 demonstration showing the capabilities of their dogs. - Fire News photos by Greg Leaman
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Fire News, September 2016, Page 31
Baseball After September 11 A Ball, a Homer and the Healing of America Fifteen years after the horrific events of September 11, 2001, the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum paid tribute to baseball’s role in the healing process with a six-month exhibit, as well as with a special recognition during the recent Hall of Fame Weekend. On June 18, the Museum cut the ribbon on an exhibit case that will remain open through the end of the year. The centerpiece in ‘Baseball After 9/11’ will be the Mets jersey 2016 Hall of Fame electee Mike Piazza wore on September 21, 2001, in the first game played in New York after the attack on the World Trade Center. Piazza’s dramatic eighth inning home run propelled the Mets to a 3-2 victory over Atlanta at Shea Stadium. Additional artifacts in ‘Baseball After 9/11’ included both the NYPD hat worn by Mets manager Bobby Valentine and the FDNY hat worn by Mets pitcher John Franco on September 21, 2001, as well as a game ticket to the scheduled September 11 game at Yankee Stadium between the Yankees and the Chicago White Sox. During the Hall of Fame Weekend, as part of the annual awards presentation, FDNY Battalion Chief Vin Mavaro shared his thoughts and memories of baseball’s role in helping New York City — and the nation — begin to recover from the 9/11 attacks. In late September 2001, Mavaro found a baseball in the rubble of the World Trade Center. Upon donating it to the museum, Mavaro explained at the time that the ball offered an unexpected, almost visceral, reminder of the ideal so many of us learned as children, the notion that a game — and its immortals — can have melding, communal power. Mavaro was recognized along with 2016 J.G. Taylor Spink Award Winner Dan Shaughnessy and 2016 Ford C. Frick Award winner Graham McNamee. - Photos by Milo Stewart, Jr./National Baseball Hall of Fame continued from page 6 technology and other options of lighting for volunteers. I hope to sit down with PSP officials in Harrisburg who oversee this law and work with them on a compromise that will allow for other lighting options for volunteers in the very near future. Any future changes to this law will go from having to be passed in legislation to a regulation change that Penndot can make and put into a new guideline. So standby as we are hopeful to work out something soon that will allow for volunteers to have other lighting options as well. However, it probably will not be for interior lights but definitely work to broaden the exterior lighting options. Another update that will most likely be done is chiefs being more compliant with maintaining an active/current list of firefighters using blue lights. This list should include their name, make and model of their vehicle, along with their license plate and driver’s license numbers. This information should be submitted each year to your local barracks. Well I think that’s enough for now. Hope you all are having a very safe and enjoyable summer. See you next month. Tim
Three Generations of Schollys
Three generations of Schollys at the Glenside Fourth of July parade. (Left to right): past-Chief Bob Scholly, Jr., Junior Firefighter Bob Scholly III; past-Chief Bob Scholly, Sr., and future firefighter James Scholly. Members of the Glenside Fire Company. - Submitted by Bob Scholly, Jr.
Page 32, Fire News, September 2016
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Hempfield Gets New Tower
The Hempfield Fire Department of Lancaster County, recently place this 2016 Sutphen Tower Ladder into service. The tower has a 100-foot stick with twin monitors. The unit carries a 300-gallon water tank with a 1500-GPM Hale pump. Tower Ladder 69 will also hold a wide varietyof tools including a full Holmatro Hydraulic Rescue tool system. - Fire News photo by Chris Haldeman
8th Annual Chaplains Seminar Attracts 90 Ninety fire and police chaplains, clergy, and mental health professionals from seven states (PA, OH, MD, NY, NH, LA, and VA) were trained in “Emotional and Spiritual Care in Disasters” at the eighth annual chaplains training seminar in Hermitage, Pennsylvania, on May 23 and 24, 2016. Chaplain Ed Hatcher from Missouri taught the two-day class from the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation. Hatcher was teaching his third class in Hermitage. He is a retired Air Force chaplain and is a Federation of Fire Chaplains-approved instructor. Retired Fire Lieutenant Craig Duck, president and missionary of the Fellowship of Christian Firefighters International, was also on hand. He gave an evening presentation on preventing and fighting fires in
houses of worship for local firefighters and interested chaplains. He also spoke about his organization, and led devotions for the class on the second day of the seminar. This year’s attendance represented a 28-percent increase in participants over last year. The annual seminars in western Pennsylvania are hosted by the Hermitage Fire Department, Hermitage Police Department, and St. Paul’s United Church of Christ. They’re organized by Chaplain David Williamson, last year’s recipient of the Federation of Fire Chaplains’ Ed Stauffer [Founder’s] Award. Dates for a 2017 seminar, and other chaplain training around the country, can be found at www.FireChaplains.org. - Submitted by David Williamson
And in Our Down Time… The Second Alarmers canteen service hands out water to people in the restricted zone at the Democratic National Convention. - Fire News photo by Alex Lloyd Gross
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Fire News, September 2016, Page 33
Up Close & Personal
Bethel Park firefighters after an electrical fire in Mt. Lebanon. - Fire News photo by Ken Lager
Hanover and Penn Township firefighters at a training session on roof operations on commercial building recently in Hanover. - Fire News photo by 911 Photography
Cetronia EMS Rehab Crew at a June 11, 2016, fire in Coplay. - Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr.
Lancaster Township firefighter at an apartment fire on Michelle Drive, June 29, 2016. - Fire News photo by Greg Leaman
Alburtis Chief responding to a two-alarm house fire on Creek Street in South Whitehall Township. - Fire News photo by Dennis Wetherhold, Jr.
Firefighters as Family Firefighters from North Point Station 39, Oliver Township Station 5, Pine Creek Station 10 and Big Run Station 17. - Fire News photo by Ashley Walters
The Lancaster Township Fire Department at their community day event on June 18, 2016. - Fire News photo by Greg Leaman
The members of the SBVFD taking a break during training. - Fire News photo by Ken Lager
Page 34, Fire News, September 2016
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Firehouse Kitchen With Firehouse Kitchen Host Ray Cooney
We got FDNY in the house today! Firefighter Chris Landano and Firefighter Jesus Marcano from Engine 326 in Queens, made it a point to include the name of the truck in their house, Ladder 160. When you read the name ‘Ladder 160,’ you pronounce it ‘one-sixty.’ Firefighter Marcano was quick to correct me and say, “No, it’s Ladder One, Six, Zero.” This is running joke between the engine and the ladder companies in this house (as any firefighter can attest, this goes on in their firehouses as well). These firemen were a blast to cook with. It began with calling the meal, ‘Irish Enchiladas,’ in celebration of my heritage, to Firefighter Marcano calling FF Landano by his nickname in the firehouse — Lan-do-nothing. Jokingly, FF Marcano was in awe of all the work Fighterfighter Landano was doing on the show because it was the first time he’d ever really seen him work! On to the meal. The table looked like a Christmas tree with all the different colors of food. These Irish Enchiladas were accompanied by beans and rice and homemade guacamole. Jesus was the head chef on this meal. He was sure to remind us all that the recipe belonged to his mother-in-law and doing what any good son-in-law would do, he made sure to give her a shout out!
Chris made a comment that Jesus was being a kiss-up. I informed Jesus that I understood his devotion to his mother-in-law. Heck, I had my fatherin-law on three shows! Well, I can’t say that I had to have him on the show. The show received so many compliments on him, that I was afraid I would loose viewers if I didn’t have him back on! My fire fact on this show was based on something that FF Landano invented. It is called the Trak Belt 360. This belt allows the firefighter to move the pockets, on the work belt, 360 degrees around your waist. This is helpful for EMS and firefighters because it allows their tools to be readily available. Being able to slide the pockets around makes climbing ladders safer and is handy in a ‘reduced profile’ situation. You can visit the website for this device at trakbelt360.com. I enjoyed cooking with these Queens firemen and shared many laughs. These two guys reminded me what I missed most about cooking at the firehouse — the camaraderie and sense of family you feel is unexplainable. I had a pinch of sadness when the day was over. To find out more about Firehouse Kitchen or how to become a sponsor or guest, visit firehousekitchenshow.com or call 631-514-5859.
IRISH CHICKEN ENCHILADAS
Chicken breast Onions Green and red peppers Tomatoes Jalapenos Cheddar cheese Sour cream 1 can crushed tomatoes 1/4 cup of half-and-half cream 1 cup chicken broth Flat, soft tortillas
Using a baking tin, fill with a half-inch of water. Lay chicken breast in tin and bake at 350 degrees for 30-40 minutes. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the sauce. Combine crushed tomatoes, half-and-half and chicken broth in a saucepan. Bring to a boil and let simmer for 30 minutes. Chop onions, peppers, tomatoes and jalapenos. When the chicken is ready, pull apart with a fork. Lay pieces of chicken on top of the tortilla shells. Add beans, rice and all chopped ingredients. Roll the tortilla closed. Layer with sauce and cheddar cheese. Place in baking tin and bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes. Sour cream and guacamole can be added to your taste after the tortillas are done baking. Enjoy!
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Fire News, September 2016, Page 35
HOW HANG-DRY BECAME A REALITY Before starting Hang-Dry I worked as a commercial diver. The hassle of getting back into a wetsuit after a previous dive was always difficult, uncomfortable, wet, cold and sticky. I had tried washing them by hand and letting them air-dry, but it just took forever. To make matters worse, my mind always wandered as I got into a damp wetsuit thinking about what might be growing inside my dark wetsuit and definitely did not make me feel comfortable. While working as a commercial diver I would spend my free time riding motorcycles, doing track days and later on moving to road racing for over 10 years. I would do anywhere from eight to 10 races every weekend, and by the end of it my race suit was always saturated with perspiration and sometimes rain. Like my wetsuits for diving, I tried to stop the odor and bacteria by washing my suits after my weekend races. It took too much time to air dry and I was concerned with just leaving it to air/sun dry. As I looked for my own way to dry my suits, I did a lot of research about the effects of perspiration and bacteria growth within unventilated materials like leather, Nomex, neoprene and others. From there, Hang-Dry was born - directly inspired by wanting to help others find a safe solution to drying their suits and gear. The first Hang-Dry that was ever built (I still have it!) was made of chicken wire fence, lots of duck tape, a fan, a wire, two bolts, a pipe, a bungee hook - yes, a bungee hook - and a whole lot of creativity. It took a long time and hard work for Hang-Dry to get to where it is now but I made sure that no corners were cut. I wanted the best of everything in the Hang-Dry dryer so it could withstand just about anything. And, with help from so many great people along the way, I am also proud to say it is MADE IN THE USA! Contact Tom Levy at 856-981-9398; www.hang-dry.com for more information.