RUN STATS

MONTHLY CALLS

WORKING JOBS 2009

TOTAL

16

12/31/2009-  At 2105, Task Force 82, Engine 69, and ISAT were dispatched to 245 Landing Road for a reported dwelling fire.  Initial reports provided to 8202 were of a dwelling, fully involved with police receiving numerous calls.  8202 arrived and reported a 1 1/2 story dwelling with heavy fire division A.  L-84 and E-821 arrived and went into operations coordinating initial fire attack with a heavy waterline and opening up the rear.  8403 assumed division A and quickly advised all companies the floor had collapsed.  After E-821 put a hit on the bulk of the fire, E-842 stretched an 1 3/4" handline through division C to the basement to complete extinguishment.  Additional crews from R-84, E-841, Q-83, Q-85, and R-32 operated into the new year extensively overhauling the structure.  FM-82 and the County Fire Marshals office are investigating the cause of the fire.

12/29/2009-  At 0640, Task Force 821 was dispatched to 134 Millbridge Apartments for a reported apartment fire.  8404 arrived with nothing showing and an audible alarm sounding.  Residents were reporting smoke and flames from the heater room.  A quick recon verified a fire in the heater room and E-842 was advised to lay in and lead off with an 1 3/4" handline.  L-84 arrived shortly after and located a small fire in the heater with no extension and used a pressurized water can to extinguish the fire.  The assignment was held to E-842, E-821, and L-84.  The scene was turned over to the property management and all companies made available shortly after.

12/28/2009-  About a month ago, a request to the Board of Fire Commissioners for replacement and additional gear racks at the Blackwood-Clementon Road Station was granted.  After investigating the options out there, it was decided Gear Grid were best suited and the order was placed.  The delivery came Monday morning.  Members started working on assembly at 1545 and by 2200 all racks were assembled, mounted, and PPE transferred over.  Special thanks goes out to FF David Vannoni for doing a majority of the legwork required to complete this endeavor.

12/22/2009- The recent snowfall has everyone around the area digging out.  The Blackwood Fire Company would like to remind citizens, as they clear their driveways and sidewalks it is a good idea to also remove the snow from around a nearby fire hydrant.  Please clear a path approximately 3 feet around the hydrant and shovel a path from the street or roadway up to the fire hydrant.  The removal of snow helps the fire crews quickly identify where fire hydrants are located and allows them to promptly get to work on extinguishing fires. Fire hydrants that are blocked or concealed by snow may potentially delay gaining a water supply which ultimately disrupts the timely manner in which firefighters are able to fight the fire and, may allow a fire to grow uncontrollably; with fire approximately doubling in size every 20 seconds.  The Blackwood Fire Company wants citizens to know that they appreciate their help in the removal of snow from around local fire hydrants.

Carmen Iacovone, a resident of the Blackwood section of Gloucester Township, stands next to his "adopted" fire hydrant after it had been dug out.  Photo by            J. Vannoni

Please clear a path approximately 3 feet around the hydrant and shovel a path from the street or roadway up to the fire hydrant.  Photo by J. Vannoni

12/17/2009-  It is with deep regret that the Officers and Members of Blackwood Fire Company announce the passing of Life Member and Past Commissioner Joe Martinez. Services will be held on Monday from 1800 - 2100 at Earle's and Tuesday morning at Earles, with a mass to follow at St. Judes, and burial at New St. Mary's in Bellmawr.

12/16/2009-  At 2050, a dwelling box was transmitted for 205 E Church Street.  8403 arrived with a 1 1/2 story rancher with heavy fire throughout and requested the all hands.  L-84, E-842 and E-841 arrived almost simultaneously.  Both Engines secured  a water supply and deployed 2 1/2" handlines.  Crews attacked the fire putting a good knock on it.  The lines were then broken down to 1 3/4" to complete extinguishment.  The fire was placed under control within 30 minutes.  Several holes needed to be cut in the floor of the main living space due to fire in the crawl space.  The Red Cross was notified to provide victim services for 13 residents.  Two deceased animals were turned over to animal control.  The fire required extensive overhaul and companies operated into the next morning. The fire in under investigation by FM84, CCFMO, and GTPD.                          First alarm companies - E841, E842, TL84, R84, E821, E822, TL82, R82
Second Source companies - E83, Q83, E86, Q85, R93                                                  All Hands - Air 81, covers to 84 and 82.

12/2/2009-  At 0634, Station 84 was dispatched to Hydes Plastics on Main Street for an alarm system.  Initial report to 8404 was of a trash chute detector activation.  Minutes later, an update of a dumpster fire was transmitted.  8404 arrived and confirmed a trash compactor fire in close proximity to the building with an attached trash chute and asked for the box to be filled, bringing Station 82 and BLS 805.  L-84 arrived, staged the apparatus and the crew was sent to the interior to check for extension.  L-84's crew reported a medium smoke condition throughout with no fire extension.  E-842 arrived, dropped a supply line and attacked the fire from the exterior.  E-821 and E-841 arrived and stood fast.  The fire was quickly placed under control and held to Station 84.  Crews ventilated the building utilizing onsite exhaust fans.  After extensive overhaul of the trash compactor the company was made available at 0738.

12/1/2009-  Minutes before 1000, Rescues 84, 82, and GC 10-3 were dispatched to Grenloch Lake, in the area of College Drive for a water rescue assignment.  Reports indicated a vehicle had left the roadway and was submerged in the lake.  U-845 arrived and reported a vehicle into the lake with the lone occupant who had self extricated with the assistance of GTPD.  No other services were required and the assignment was recalled.

11/11/2009-  At 1547, Stations 83, 82, and 84 were dispatched to 906 Masters Drive for a dwelling fire.  Initial reports provided to 8404 and Quint 83 were of a possible dryer fire.  8404 arrived and reported a 2 1/2 story, end of the row with light smoke from the roof.  The reporting party advised that all occupants were not home at the time of the fire.  Quint 83 was ordered to take division A and conduct the investigation.  As Quint 83 forced entry, medium smoke started emanating from the eaves and garage door.  The crew from Q-83 returned to there apparatus and stretched an 1 3/4" handline.  E-83 was ordered to get a water supply for the Quint.  The "All Hands" was struck bringing the ISAT, utilities, Squad 75 as a RIT, and covering the stations.  E-842 arrived and secured a secondary water supply and their crew moved forward to assist Q-83 with the initial handline and deploy a backup line.  8409, acting as C division, advised he had a floor 1, C division fire.  E-841 arrived next and were assigned truck company duties.  E-841's crew first vented the rear as the interior crews made their attack on what would later be discovered as a kitchen fire, then they made their way to floor 2 to check for extension.  E-822 was assigned initial RIT until the arrival of Sqd 75.  Q-85 advised of their availability and were brought in to check the exposure B dwelling.  After forcing entry, they reported light smoke and water damage.  PSE&G were on location and secured the electric to both 906 and 905.  The fire was placed under control and the assignment was scaled back to stations 83 and 84.  The fire is under investigation by the Camden County Fire Marshal's office.  Upon releasing R-84, they were dispatched to Deptford Station 93 for a cover assignment.  Deptford Fire was battling a fire in a vacant building.

11/7/2009-  At approximately 0630 hrs on Saturday morning Stations 83, 82 and 84 were dispatched to the 700 block of Graisbury Ave in the Blenheim section for a dwelling fire.  8401 arrived first and assumed command with heavy smoke throughout and fire from Division C.  Quint 83 and Ladder 84 arrived simultaneously and commenced fire attack while E821 and E842 provided water supply and deployed a back up line.  As the first floor fire was darkened, companies found collapsed floor conditions in the kitchen.  The interior stairs were also located in this area and allowed for rapid fire extension to Floor 2.  Companies darkened the fire with exterior lines and mopped up from the interior.  Rescue 32 and Squad 75 responded on the all hands, as well as Rehab 1 and Rehab 2.  Engine 81 was relocated from the cover to assist at the scene.  The fire was placed under control at the 40 minute mark and is under investigation by the Camden County Fire Marshal’s office.

11/1/2009-  Rescue 82, BLS 805 and ALS 46 were dispatched to the intersection of Chews Landing Road and Somerdale Road for a reported MVA with entrapment.  Arriving on location, 8201 reported a single vehicle on its side with three occupants still trapped.  ALS 46 responding from Station 82, had already started triage of the patients, and requested an additional ALS unit.  BLS 805 assumed EMS Command and requested an additional three BLS units.

Rescue 82 arrived on location as was assigned extrication.  Engine 821 arrived shortly afterwards and was assigned fire suppression.  Rescue 84 was added to the assignment due to the number of injuries and to assist with vehicle stabilization.  EMS Command and the ALS Supervisor both requested a fly of SouthStar for one of the patients, however due to air security for Air Force 1 arriving at Philadelphia International Airport, the helicopter was cancelled.

All patients were removed by the 30 minute progress report and transported by ground to the local Trauma Center.  The scene was turned over to Gloucester Township Police for completion of the accident investigation.

10/2/2009-  Around 1945, GTPD responded to a reported shooting to the rear of  Scenic Falls Apartments building C.  Upon arrival, GTPD found a woman who had climbed over a fence and fell 50' down a steep embankment.  She was not shot, nor was she injured.  BLS, ALS, and Station 84 were dispatched for an assist police and after a quick recon, decided to set up a 4:1 haul system.  Crews reached the victim and a GTPD officer, who had climbed down to render assistance, and after placing them in class II harnesses, hauled them up the ravine.  The company was made available shortly after.

9/19/2009-   Just prior to 1000 GTPD, BLS 806, and Medic 46 were dispatched to Autumn Ridge G building for a possible shooting.  8403 and L-84 responded due to the severity of the call and the likelihood of the need for med-evac.  After GTPD secured the scene, units moved in to find a 42 year old male with a gunshot wound to the neck.  Medics stood down the chopper.  Crews worked CPR while enroute to Kennedy Stratford were the victim was pronounced dead.  GTPD are investigating the incident.

9/13/2009-  Minutes before 1700, Station 84 and 82 were dispatched to 24 West Church Street for a dwelling with reported people trapped.  8401 arrived and reported a 1 1/2 story dwelling with light smoke showing, then reported a fire in the rear and GTPD reporting all occupants accounted for.  Due to second source dispatching, the assignment was upgraded bringing additional companies from 83, 85, and GC 93.  E-842, alerted early by the police dispatch, arrived moments later, secured their own water supply and stretched a line to the D side.  Crews quickly knocked a kitchen fire with extension down and after ventilating, the assignment was placed under control and held to 84 and 82 units.  After extensive overhaul crews cleared the scene.

9/13/2009-  At 0014, E-84, R-82 and E-83 were dispatched to State Highway 42 North at 9.4 for a crash with entrapment.  Initial reports indicated an overturned vehicle with people trapped and possible fire.  8404 arrived and confirmed an overturned with two patients, one of which is pinned under the vehicle.  The first arriving engine was to take a blocking position and handle fire suppression.  Rescue 82 was to prepare to go into service for a lift.  E-842 placed a foam blanket around the vehicle due to a gasoline leak.  R-82 utilized the Hurst spreaders to remove the door and a ram to do the lift freeing the occupants leg.  The patient was extricated at the 30 minute mark.  Both patients were transported to Cooper Trauma by BLS.  8401 had extrication and 8403 handled safety.  Units cleared the scene at 0123.

9/12/2009-  Just before 0900, Station 82 (Chews Landing) was dispatched to the Black Horse Pike and Olympus Avenue for a crash with entrapment.  GTPD arrived with a one vehicle crash, occupied, on its side, with an engine compartment fire.  GTPD knocked the fire down with dry chemical extinguishers.  First arriving 82 units surveyed the scene and immediately requested PSE&G to respond due to live wires down across the vehicle and arcing down the street.  They also requested R-84.  Due to R-84 being out of service for preventative maintenance, the next due (GC R-93) was added as well as Engine 841 and 842 to handle the wires while the Rescue companies dealt with the extrication.  Companies stood by until PSE&G arrived and secured the power to the primary lines, then began stabilization.  Shortly after, both occupants were removed and packaged for transport by BLS.  84 units stood by for a short period before being released by 820.

9/5/2009-  After being recalled from a reported vehicle fire on Rt. 42 North, County Communications dispatched BLS for an accident on the Southbound side at exit 8.  Already on the street and in the area, 8401 entered the highway at Coles Road and proceeded South with nothing in evidence.  R-82 and R-84, after monitoring reports of three vehicles involved and injuries, responded.  R-82 arrived and provided an updated location of just South of the Black Horse Pike exit and were checking on injuries.  R-84 arrived and were assigned to take a blocking position and send the crew forward for a possible door pop.  Further investigation reveled no need for the HRT's and crews stood by as BLS obtained refusals of care.  R-84 went available after DOT ESP arrived and assumed traffic safety.

9/4/2009-  Around 2125 units from stations 83, 84, and 82 were dispatched to Lower Landing Road in the area of Bradbury Vault for a stranded boat.  Upon arrival of 8301 and 8401, an updated report of a boat carrying three and a jet ski that had gone looking for the boat had been missing.  Marine 82 entered Timber creek at Bradbury Vault as R-84 was sent to Station Avenue to search that area.  Marine 81 and 75 were added to the assignment to start searching from that area.  GTPD advised 830 they had located the boaters.  R-84 positioned on Clements Bridge Road to provide lighting.  After getting a visual on the boat, R-84 was able to determine there were three children and one adult on the boat, no one was injured, and that a failed motor stranded them. R-84 stood by until marine 81 reached the boaters and towed them to shore at Melvin Avenue park.  Marine 82 located the stranded jet ski, which had run aground, and returned him to shore as well.  Marine 85 and GC 938 were special called to assist in the search, but their services were not required.  Crews cleared the scene shortly after.

9/3/2009-  Around 1440, Task Force 851 was dispatched to 1714 Brentwood Place for a dwelling.  8409 (L. Gray Jr.) arrived and reported heavy smoke from an end of the row one story single family dwelling and advised the first engine to lay in.  Squad 86 arrived and stretched a line to division A.  E-842 picked up and pumped the supply as L-62 opened up.  R-84 stretched a second line as a backup.  Crews put a quick hit on the fire and placed it under control.  Local and County Fire Marshals are investigating the cause.

9/1/2009-  At 0310, Task Force 82 was dispatched to 236 Richmond Avenue for a dwelling.  Having an in-house overnight crew, E-842 responded within a minute of dispatch.  Reports indicated GTPD were on location with a bedroom fire and had two burn victims.  8201 and E-842 arrived simultaneously and reported smoke from a two story single family dwelling.  8404 arrived taking C division while E-821 sent their crew forward for a search and opening up.  The crew from E-842 reported a small fire smoldering and requested a pressurized water can to extinguish the fire involving a mattress and clothes dresser.  Crews checked for extension with negative results and vented the dwelling before scaling back the assignment.  Both patients were transported to Cooper trauma with burns.  Local and County Fire Marshals are investigating the cause of the fire.

8/22/2009-  Around 0030, thunderstorms ripped through the area.  With the multiple flashes of lightning, roars of thunder and torrential downpour  came three reported houses struck by lightning, two reports of wires arcing in trees, and an alarm system.  After clearing from the calls, crews remained in quarters until the storms passed around 0130.

8/6/2009-  At 2113, Firefighter Bill Kanauss and his family welcomed Alexis Rose into this world.  Weighing in at 7lb-5oz and at 19 1/2" long, both baby and mother are doing well.  Congratulations!

7/31/2009- Just before 5 pm on Friday a powerful storm hit the area.  Incidents mainly involved falling trees taking down wires and poles.  As the storm passed, damage assessment activities and increasing 911 calls throughout the Township required activation of Gloucester Township Office of Emergency Management.  The Command Post at Station 82 coordinated responses township wide as companies from the Township and surrounding areas and GT Police began investigating numerous reports of downed trees and clearing the 911 backlog.  Crews were released from quarters at just before 0100 hrs and returned for one more storm run at 0352 hrs to provide lighting for utility crews working to clear Little Gloucester Rd.   Blackwood Firefighters staffed up to 6 pieces of apparatus with 27 firefighters and responded to 36 emergency incidents. 

7/27/2009-  As units were returning from an alarm system at Autumn Ridge, Station 82, BLS and ALS were being dispatched for a crash at Laurel and Blackwood Clementon Roads.  As 84 is normally on any 82 box on Blackwood Clementon Road, 8404, L-84, and R-84 signed on responding.  8404 arrived to find what appeared to be a multi vehicle crash with a vehicle smoking in the Sunoco lot, a motorcycle down in the intersection and another vehicle with a well involved engine compartment fire in the Lukoil lot.  L-84 was assigned to attack the vehicle fire while R-84 was ordered to check the vehicle smoking and tend to the motorcyclist.  8202 arrived and assumed 820.  R-82 arrived and was positioned to supply L-84 if needed and crews split up to assist both crews already working.  As it turns out, the smoking vehicle was overheated and was not involved in the crash, however crews needed to mitigate a spill of coolant.  The driver from vehicle on fire fled the scene on foot, and the cyclist was transported to a local area hospital.  L-84 and R-82 were held by 820 to assist GTPD with lighting for the investigation. 

7/21/2009-  In preparation for summer water rescues, Blackwood firefighters gained permission from the Cherrywood Apartments management to utilize there pool for a drill.  Two weeks ago, a review of our water rescue operational guideline took place as a precursor to this evenings drill.  After breaking up into three groups, the company practiced evolutions on transferring of unconscious persons from the water into our inflatable boat, reach & throw techniques, and maintaining cervical spine stabilization on a floating trauma victim as well as packaging via a cervical collar and long board while in the water. 

7/10/2009-  Around 2300, Task Force 852 was dispatched to 74 Roosevelt for a dwelling fire.  8001 arrived and reported heavy smoke from a 1 1/2 story dwelling.  Squad 86 laid a supply and requested the all hands upon arrival and lead the fire attack.  L-62 arrived and reported negative on search with the floor in B side failing.  Crews were pulled out due to lack of water.  Engine 842 arrived, picked up the supply line and sent the crew forward.  As E-842's the crew arrived in manpower, they were immediately deployed to operate the initial attack lines in C division.  After knocking down the bulk of the fire, crews reentered to mop up.  E-841 and R-84's crews were also deployed to the interior to assist in overhaul.  Station 84's crews remained on scene until 0130.  The cause is under investigation by local and county fire marshal offices.          PHILLYFIRENEWS.COM

7/8/2009-  Station 84 members monitored an alarm for a reported dwelling fire with reports of people trapped at 918 Lakeview Avenue in Laurel Springs. The first Station 60 fire officer to respond was soon after advised that police were on location and requesting an expedited response as heavy smoke was showing with people confirmed trapped in the basement.  Ladder 84 mounted up and started toward the area of the incident, eventually being added to the assignment. Upon arrival, Ladder 84 crew members  assisted in the rescue of two civilian fire victims and aided with a firefighter MAYDAY. One of the rescued civilians is in critical condition at the time of this report. Unfortunately, the other did not survive. Engine 842 also responded to the incident and assisted with setting up a helicopter landing zone prior to moving up to the scene.         PHILLYFIRENEWS.COM

6/2/2009-  At 2315, Station 84 was dispatched to the Denny's restaurant for a public assist.  Reports provided to 8404 were of a kitten stuck in a storm drain located in the parking lot.  E-842, R-84 and 8404 arrived.  An initial survey confirmed the meows of a cat in the drain.  After removing the grates and investigating further, crew members got a visual on the feline.  The escape routes were cut off and the cat was flushed out using an 1 3/4" handline.  The kitten was wiped dry and turned over to a civilian who had reported hearing the kittens distressed calls.  The grates were closed and company made available at 2355.

5/29/2009-  Minutes before 0100, Stations 84, 82 and 62 were dispatched to Autumn Ridge Apartments, A-17 building for an apartment fire.  8403 responded and was given an updated report that GTPD had heavy smoke and people trapped.  Due to this report, the second source dispatch was transmitted, bringing GC R-93 as the RIT, E-83, E-85, and Cascade 81.  8403 arrived and confirmed a working fire on floor two and requested the "all hands" adding additional companies.  8401 arrived next and assumed command.  E-842 arrived first due, laid a supply line in and stretched an 1 3/4 handline.  L-62 and L-84 arrived simultaneously, L-84's full crew was assigned to search the floors above the fire for the reportedly trapped residents, and L-62 placed ground ladders, vented the fire apartment as well as forced entry for E-842's crew.  L-82 took C division while E-821 pumped the supply line and stretched a second handline.  The bulk of the fire was knocked down and the fire placed shortly after verifying no extension.  Companies remained on location for extensive overhaul.  The fire is being investigated by Local and County Fire Marshals. 

5/26/2009-  During training, Rescue 84 was dispatched to College Drive and Blackwood Clementon Road for a motor vehicle crash.  Upon 8402 signing on, the crash was upgraded to a Rescue assignment.  8402 arrived and confirmed three injuries, one requiring a door pop.  R-84 arrived, stabilized the vehicle and went into operation on the door.  E-841 arrived and took fire suppression.  Minutes later the extrication was complete.  The crews assisted BLS with patient packaging and were made available shortl.y after

5/26/2009-  Continuing to use the fire academy training facilities, training for this Tuesday was conducted using the vehicle fire simulator.

5/12/2009-  Training for this Tuesday evening was conducted at the Camden County Fire Academy.  Blackwood and Blenheim teamed up for cooperative training at the burn building.  Evolutions simulating two story residential structure fires were conducted.

5/02/2009-  Saturday afternoon, Engine 84 was dispatched to 512 Carol Avenue for a motor vehicle crash.  R-84 arrived with a vehicle that had crashed into a parked pick-up truck.  The vehicles battery was de-energized and a minor fluid spill was mitigated.  GTPD is investigating the cause of the crash.

4/23/2009-  While out on a crash, Engine 84 was dispatched for an alarm system at Scenic Falls Apartments.  E-842 and R-84 arrived with nothing showing.  Upon investigating, a medium smoke condition and flame were observed coming from the kitchen area of a lower rear apartment.  8409 requested the box be filled as E-842 stretched a line.  Crews found a small fire involving food on the stove which was quickly extinguished.  The assignment was held to E-842 and R-84.  FM84 is conducting an investigation into the cause.

4/20/2009-  During the 3 o'clock hour, Rescue 84, BLS 805, and Medic 46 were dispatched to Broadacres Drive for a crash with entrapment.  An updated report indicated no entrapment and the crash to be on College Drive.  R-84 arrived and reported a vehicle overturned and into the woods with BLS tending to the self extricated occupant.  The occupant denied injury and shortly after Rescue 84 went available.

4/17/2009-  At 0240, Engine 84 was dispatched to Erial Road for a vehicle fire.  8403 arrived and reported a vehicle into a utility pole and the vehicle fully involved.  E-842 arrived utilized their front bumper line and quickly knocking down the fire.  BLS was requested to check the driver for injuries.  Units were made available at 0315.

4/11/2009-  This morning we received word that last night around 2030, Honorary member Brian Cain was struck while riding his tricycle by a hit and run driver at Springdale and Kresson Roads in the Cherry Hill section of Camden County.  A CHPD officer found Brian unconscious during a routine patrol.  Brian was rushed to Cooper Hospital and is listed in critical condition in the ICU.  Anyone with information regarding the accident is asked to contact Cherry Hill Police at (856)-488-7828.

4/03/2009-  At 1005 this morning, one of our newest members, Adam Willis and his significant other welcomed into this world their son.  Shane Keegan Willis weighed in at 7 lb 14 oz and 20 inches long.  Both mother and baby are doing well.  Congratulations!

3/28/2009-  Around 1910, Rescues 84, 82, and E-83 were dispatched to Rt. 42 South in the area of exit 8 for a motor vehicle crash with entrapment.  8204 arrived in the area of exit 8 with nothing showing.  E-842, while traveling Northbound to make the flip at Coles Road, reported a trailer carrying a backhoe on the shoulder of the road that had disconnected from a dump truck and rolled on it's side just prior to the Coles Road onramp.  8401 and E-842 arrived, confirmed no injuries or spills and cleared the scene. 

3/28/2009-  At 1730, Engine 84 was dispatched to Autumn Ridge Apartments for a vehicle fire.  E-842 arrived to find an engine compartment fire that appeared to be extinguished by GTPD.  Crews from E-842 and E-841 wet down the involved area, disconnected the battery, and went available.

3/25/2009-  At 1435, Stations 84 and 82 were dispatched to 100 West Central Avenue for a dwelling fire.  Due to receiving multiple calls, the Communications Center, in-line with our protocol, added Station 83, Engine 85/86 and GC Rescue 93.  8408 arrived and reported a 2 1/2 story wood frame with heavy smoke from the attic and requested the "all hands" which brought  the ISAT, who handle many of the divisional command positions.  L-84 arrived first, established it's own water supply, and the crew entered to confirm the report of all occupants accounted for and to search for the seat of the fire stretching the initial line from L-84.  E-842 dropped a supply line and pulled handlines to the interior and C division with the assistance of E-821 and  E-822's crews.   E-83 arrived and laid a secondary supply line.   Crews found fire located in the walls of the livable attic space.  GC L-1016 responded on a special call and set up on the D side in case defensive operations were required.  Squad 85 and Engine 86 were staged and crews were deployed to the manpower pool were they relieved the initial attack crew.  Crews extinguished the fire and the situation was placed under control at 40 minutes.  The fire is under investigation by local and county fire marshals.

3/05/2009- At 1132, Station 84 was dispatched to the Black Horse Pike and Marshall Avenue for a motor vehicle crash.  8401 arrived and reported a crash involving a motor cycle.  Rescue 84 arrived and assumed care for the cyclist until BLS arrived.  The company was made available shortly after.

3/05/2009-  Around 1120, Task Force 821 was dispatched to Washington Avenue in the Glen Oaks section of Chews Landing for a dwelling fire.  Crews arrived to find light smoke from the front door.  A dryer fire was found and extinguished by the crew from E-821.  R-84, clearing from a cover assignment in Deptford, arrived second and conducted a primary search while L-84 handled OV, and E-842 stood by a water supply.

3/01/2009-  As the weather reports started coming in for a forecasted 10-14" inches of snow, the Officers and members of Blackwood started gearing up.  A meeting at 1200 occurred and a plan was set.  Overnight crews would assemble at 1800 and last until the nor'easter let up.  At 1930, crews and their families convened at Central Avenue to eat a delicious meal prepared by our own and then off to the respected stations for the evening.  In the early morning hours, the first EMS assist calls came in.   Throughout the morning hours, we ran an additional three EMS assists.   Since the onset of the storm, Blackwood has maintained a full crew in each station for 36 hours, and responded to an additional four EMS assists, an alarm system, and a cover assignment in Winslow Township, ending the operational period at 0600 on Tuesday morning.  A special thanks goes out to the members who dedicated their time staffing the stations.

2/28/2009-  In the 2 O'clock hour, Engines 84, 83, and GC93 were dispatched to Rt. 42 North at 10.4 for a vehicle fire.  8404 arrived and confirmed an engine compartment fire.  E-83 arrived and stretched an 1 3/4" handline, while E-842 took a blocking position and set up a safe working area.  The fire was quickly extinguished and after arrival of NJSP, the companies cleared the scene.

2/14/2009-  While responding to the crash on Blackwood Clementon Road, Rescue 84 was redirected to Erial-Williamstown Road and Annapolis Drive for a crash with a reported person trapped underneath.  EMS Command 8001 arrived and reported a person partially ejected from the vehicle with no signs of life.  8405 and R-84 arrived and assisted with safing the vehicles involved. 

2/14/2009-  Station 84 responded to this three vehicle crash crash at 1704.  E-842 arrived and reported a three vehicle crash with  minor fluids on the highway.  Crews mitigated the spill and safed the vehicles before going available. 

2/14/2009-  At 0337, Rescue 84 was dispatched to Erial Road in front of Lewis Middle School for a motor vehicle crash.  Reports indicated one car into a pole with no injuries.  8405 arrived, confirmed the report and held the assignment to E-842.  The crew mitigated a small spill and de energized the vehicles battery.

2/14/2009-  Around 0815, Engines 84, 83, and 82 were dispatched to Rt. 42 North at exit 9A for a vehicle fire.  8405 arrived with nothing showing from an unoccupied tour bus.  The bus apparently broke an axle causing a small fire in the wheel well extinguished by the driver of the bus.  The assignment was held to E-842 & E-841 for cooling of the involved area.  Companies were made available shortly after.

2/13/2009-  The crash happened at Jarvis and Wilshire Roads on Sunday around 1318, and left a 6 year old child in critical condition.  GTPD are requesting public assistance in the search for the driver of the vehicle that fled the scene.  Police are requesting anyone with information to contact them at (856) 228-4500. Click here for the Media Release.

2/10/2009-  At 0615, Rescue 84 was dispatched to College Drive at Broadacres for a motor vehicle crash.  8404 arrived to confirm reports of a vehicle into a utility pole with wires down.  GTPD shut College Drive down do to the live wires and pole laying across the street.  E-842 was assigned to de-energize the vehicle involved and R-84 mitigated an oil spill which occurred after a second vehicle drove over the downed pole causing an oil pan rupture.  Fire police were called to assist with traffic while awaiting the arrival of Atlantic City Electric.  The Company was made available.

2/08/2009-  After a night of partying, it was back to business at 0500 when Station 84, 82, L-62, E-85 and GC R-93 were dispatched to 800 South Black Horse Pike for a dwelling fire.  Reports provided to responding companies were that the dwelling was filling with smoke.  GTPD arrived and found a vagrant who had set a trash can on fire in the basement to keep warm.  The fire was extinguished by GTPD and Local and County FM's were requested. 

2/07/2009-  Each year at the annual installation of officers banquet one member of the Blackwood Fire Company is awarded the "Sound the Alarm" award. It is awarded to the firefighter of the year, who is selected by his/her peers as showing outstanding dedication to the fire company. The award was established to honor our late brother, Kenny Ward. Kenny was a firefighter's firefighter: dedicating a great part of his life to the Blackwood Fire Company. Upon his passing in 2003, his family requested that donations be made to the fire company in his name. In appreciation for their donations, the Blackwood Fire Company established the "Sound the Alarm" award.

This years "Sound the Alarm" was awarded to Nick Argenbright, a member who has dedicated himself to the Blackwood Fire Company for  five years. Nick is currently one of our most active members: holding the highest average in the company;  Congratulations Nick Argenbright, you certainly have earned this award and you bring great pride, loyalty and dedication to it and the Blackwood Fire Company!  

2/05/2009-  Around 2210, Engines 84, 83, 82 and GC93 were dispatched to Rt. 42 South at milepost 10.3 for a motor vehicle crash.  Initial reports were of a two vehicle crash, one overturned and one smoking.  8404 arrived and confirmed what appeared to be an overturned vehicle, with one minor back and neck pain patient.  The other vehicle involved was a tractor trailer that was stopped 100 yards further down the highway.  The assignment was held to Rescue 93 to de-energize the vehicle and mitigate a minor fluid spill.  Crews stood by until the vehicle was removed by the tow company.

Moments after returning to the station, Engines 84, 83 and GC93 were dispatched to Rt. 42 South at milepost 10 for a highway hazard from a motor vehicle crash.  BLS was on location reporting debris and fluids throughout the slow lane, with troopers requesting a cleanup.  8404 arrived at milepost 10.6, confirmed the report and held the assignment to R-93 and E-832.  NJSP are investigating the cause of the crash.

2/05/2009-  At 2000, Rescue 84 and BLS 805 were dispatched to Fairmount and Estelle Avenues for a motor vehicle crash.  Initial reports indicated a one vehicle crash with a person lying in the roadway.  8404 arrived and confirmed the reported one vehicle crash and a patient being interviewed by GTPD.  BLS arrived and assumed patient care, while E-842 and R-84 de-energized the vehicle.  The vehicle reportedly came across two different properties before coming to rest aside a tree.  GTPD is investigating the crash.

2/03/2009-   About 0455, Engine's 85 and 84 were dispatched to Accurate Industries located on Hickstown Road for a vehicle fire.  Squad 86 and 8404 arrived with a vehicle well involved.  Squad 86 stretched an 1 3/4" handline to extinguish the blaze.  E-842 arrived, positioned to supply the Squad and sent their crew forward to assist with overhaul.  The assignment was held to S-86 and E-842 returning E-841 and R-84.

2/03/2009-  Around 1530, Task Force 85 was dispatched to 41 Hickstown Road for a dwelling fire.  Initial reports were of the homeowner lighting their fireplace and the house was filling with smoke.  Squad 86 arrived with nothing showing.  Further investigation reveled smoke throughout the dwelling with possible fire in the side D wall.  8404 arrived and set up the command post.  Squad 86 stretched a line to the door and L-62 positioned on side A and took interior to start opening up.  L-84 arrived and were assigned side D to start opening from the exterior.  R-82 had the RIT and E-842 laid a supply line to L-62 who eventually pulled an additional handline for exterior use.  Crews found fire in the walls and extinguished the fire from the exterior.  The assignment was held to Squad 86 and L-62.

1/31/2009-  On Saturday evening, E-841, Sqd-75 and GC L-93 covered Station 82 while they were enjoying their annual installation of officers banquet.  Crews were treated to a catered meal and a newly released movie, but didn't turn a wheel all night.  As E-841 was returning, they took in a medical run in Chestnut Glenn. 

1/27/2009-  As weather reports ranged from rain to snow to sleet to mix, Blackwood was at work preparing for the worst.  Day crews readied the snow throwers, placed shovels on the rigs, and insured adequate salt was available for the station parking lots and aprons.  Officers were making arrangements for overnight in-house crews and food to last the night.  Calls were made to adjoining companies as to their status of overnight crews.  A call from GTEMS advised we would be dispatched to any call in district 4 to assist in snow removal and patient packaging.  The snow began to fall around 2100.  Three full crews covered the stations from 2200-1000.  All the preparation paid off......the company had a quiet night of no calls for service. 

1/25/2009-  After a primer drill on Tuesday, members took to the frozen over Grenloch lake for some surface ice rescue training this Sunday morning.  Ice rescue is one of the many disciplines we have versed ourselves in over the years.  Many of our members have trained to the technician level, which is the requirement to enter the ice to execute a rescue.  After creating a hole and submersing one of our probies into the cold water, crews dressed in Stearns cold water/ice rescue suites and tag lines to practice evolutions.  After each technician completed two rescues, we set up a pulley system for use with multiple victims.  After returning to the station to clean and dry the gear, we enjoyed some lunch.  Members interested in Ice Rescue Tech should contact Lt. J. Urso for information on upcoming training in Winslow.

1/23/2009-  While Lindenwold units were fighting a two alarm blaze, Engine 842 was relocated to Station 63-2 for a cover with L-64-1.  Crews covered for approximately two hours before being released to cover from their own stations.  After an alarm system at Wendy's restaurant in 82's local, Communications advised we were released from the cover. 

1/20/2009-  At around 1300, Rescue 84 was dispatched to Gloucester County Washington Township Station 10-1 for a cover assignment.  Units from Washington Twp. were committed on a two alarm dwelling fire.  The Rescue remained on the cover until 2030. 

1/19/2009-  The Board of Fire Commissioners District 4 are selling the old command vehicle.  This unit is a 1996 Ford Bronco and is being sold "as is".  For more information, please contact the Board at 856-227-7037.

1/10/2009-  As the new year begins, companies from the area have their annual installation of fire officers banquets.  These events are normally a catered party for the membership to reflect on the past year, what lies ahead, an official oath taking, and a general thank you to the members for a job well done.  While these parties go on, surrounding companies are asked to provide a cover to ensure adequate fire protection.  This year, we were double booked with requests for an Engine to Pine Hill, and a Rescue for Washington Township.  Through coordination and commitment, members of Blackwood put together two full crews for the covers and an in-house crew for our own district.  As usual, being fully prepared brought us a slow night.  It appears the bubble is still in place.

1/7/2009-  Life member Edward Bryant Jr. passed away this week.  Funeral arrangements are for the viewing on Wednesday night January 14, 2009 at 1800 at Earls, located on West Church Street.  The funeral is on Thursday January 15, 2009 at 0900.  Our deepest condolences go out to the Bryant family.

1/5/2009-  At 0707, District 10 was dispatched to 107 Chadsford Court for a dwelling fire with entrapment. Crews arrived to heavy fire throughout. An aggressive interior attack was initiated while the dwelling was being vented. Searches proved negative on entrapment. Companies went defensive for a short period due to heavy fire conditions, once knocked crews went back into service knocking the remaining fire and to overhaul. The job went to 2 alarms bring in Rescue 84 for the R.I.T.  The fire is under investigation by District 10 FM's.

1/4/2009-  On Sunday, Engine 841 and Delaware County, PA truck 63 (Green Ridge) covered Delaware City, DE while their station was out of service due to a line of duty death.  FF/EMT Michelle Smith was tragically killed while operating on the scene of a motor vehicle crash.  In addition, two additional members passed away all within a short period of time.  While covering the 1800-2400 shift, the crews responded to one reported dwelling fire, but were recalled prior to arrival.  Engine 841 returned to quarters around 0130 Monday morning.  The Engine will be returning at sun up for the funeral precession.  We would like to thank the officers and members of Delaware City for their hospitality and wish them the best in these trying times.

1/3/2009-  Around 1710, Task Force 852 was dispatched to the 500 block of Hickstown Road for a building fire.  GTPD arrived and reported a barn, fully involved.  Squad 85 arrived and confirmed the report and went into service.  E-842 arrived, supplied Squad 62 and assisted with extinguishment utilizing the foam pro-pak.  L-84 was held in staging and later made available.