Home   |   History    |    Training    |    Apparatus    |    Members    |   Fire Prevention

Auxiliary   |   Stations    |    Links    |    Become a member    |    Archives    |   Contacts

2006 Archives

RUN STATS

MONTHLY CALLS

JAN 77
FEB 63
MAR 67
APR 53
MAY 84
JUN 67
JUL 90
AUG 81
SEP 78
OCT 79
NOV 62
DEC 65
TOTAL 868
     

WORKING JOBS

TOTAL

24

     
EXTRICATIONS
TOTAL 9

CRASH ON THE PIKE REQUIRES EXTRICATION

12/30/2006- On Saturday, Blackwood firefighters were alerted for an MVA /Rescue at 109 N. BHP.  Firefighters staffing Tower Ladder 84 and Engine 842 were just taking up from an earlier training assignment at Fountainview Village and responded immediately. On arrival firefighters found a 2 vehicle head on wreck with 4 victims.  A passenger in a van carrying a load of tires was pinned by the cargo and trapped in the front seat.  While E842's crew stretched a line and completed hazard control, TL 84's crew emptied the van of tires.  Rescue 84 arrived and crews removed the front door and "B" post to complete the extrication within 12 minutes of arrival. BLS requested additional assistance in removing the pick up truck occupants. Due to the door configuration it was necessary to stabilize the truck and remove both front doors to allow BLS room to remove the patients to long boards.  Blackwood firefighters remained on location until the vehicles were removed and took care of the highway hazard.  Additional agencies responding to this incident included Gloucester Township Police, Gloucester Township EMS, Virtua Paramedics ALS 41 and 46, Runnemede and Stratford EMS. While on location at this incident the alarm room advised of another incident involving an overturned car on Woodlane Drive.  Rescue 82 was dispatched along with additional personnel from Station 84.  Crews found an overturned SUV with one minor injury.

FF1 GRADUATE EARNS OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

12/8/2006- On Saturday, the 2006 Firefighter 1 graduation ceremony was held to honor all personnel who successfully completed this grueling training during this year.  Congratulations and thank you to Mike Baez, Louis Gray, Jr., Michael D. Jones and Ray Woods.  A special congratulation must be extended to Michael (Doctor) Jones who received the James Sylvester Academic Achievement award for class #06-01.  This award is presented to one student from each class for achieving the highest gradepoint average in the class.  This is the third year in a row that one of our members earned an award for outstanding achievement during FF-1; Barry Collins was awarded the James Sylvester Academic Achievement award in 2004 and David Vannoni earned the John D. West Sr. Award for Practical Skills Achievement for class #05-02.  Great work and congratulations again!!!

Chief Vannoni congratulates FF Mike D. Jones FF Louis Gray Jr., Paul Sandrock, FF Ray Woods, FF Mike Baez, FF Mike D. Jones

"HEROES" DAY AT C.H.O.P.

12/16/2006- On Saturday, members of the Blackwood Fire Company were invited to attend the first "Heroes" party, sponsored by the Philadelphia Chapter of Heroes.  Members were given the opportunity to spend the day with the children of Children’s Hospital of Pennsylvania (C.H.O.P).  During the time, members played games, decorated cookies (and ate some too), and the kids tried on some turnout gear.  As the boys were playing firefighters, local director Stephanie Garland treated the girls to makeovers, manicures and a relaxing tea party as part of the “Queen for a Day Program”.    Also local Marines brought bags full of toys for all the kids to enjoy.  Firefighters were brought there as “Heroes” but at the end of the day the true heroes were all the “kids” that fight everyday to make a difference.  To our newest friends, Thank You, and we will see you all again soon.

If you would like to learn more about the “Heroes" and "Queen for a Day” program please visit www.qfad.org

TASK FORCE "F" TO GLOUCESTER CITY ON THIRD ALARM

12/13/2006-  At 0103, Task Force F (Chief 84, L-84, R-82, E-753, E-81, and E-85) was dispatched to the city of Gloucester to cover while they were committed on a three alarm building fire.  About an hour into the assignment, the task force was scaled down to L-84 and E-753 to cover from Gloucester City Fire Headquarters.  No calls for service were required and units went available at 0607.

RESCUE COVERS WATERFORD TOWNSHIP

12/6/2006-  Just after returning from a reported apartment fire in Chews Landing, Rescue 84 was dispatched to 704 Linda Lane in Waterford Township for a F.A.S.T. assignment.  While en route, Rescue 84 was redirected to cover station 23-2.  Units from Blackwood (R-84), Chews Landing (E-822), and Laurel Springs (SQD-6021) covered Waterford while they were committed on a dwelling fire.  Units responded to a reported dwelling fire at 43 Egg harbor Road in Berlin Boro, but were recalled prior to arrival.  All covers were released at 0627.

THANKSGIVING A BUSY DAY FOR BLACKWOOD

11/23/2006-  After clearing from the crash on the Pike, Stations 84 and 82 were dispatched to 71 Lakeland Road at the Lakewood manor Apartments, unit B-9 for a reported apartment fire.  8401, Ladder 84 and Engine 841 immediately responded and were given a report of smoke from an oven.  8401 arrived and reported an audible alarm with nothing showing.  A quick investigation reveled careless cooking and the assignment was held to L-84.  Just after backing into the station, units from Stations 82 & 84, along with Squads 75 and 62 were dispatched to 314 Lacascata Apartments for an apartment fire.  Engine 841 arrived and reported another careless cooking incident.  The assignment was held to Engine 821 for ventilation purposes.  The companies were made available at 0919.

At 1705, Stations 83, 82, and 84 were dispatched to 33 Cypress Point Court for a dwelling fire.  Communications advised 8401 of a fireplace fire with possible extension.  8401 arrived, established command as 830, and reported a 2 1/2 story end of the row town home with light smoke on the interior.  Engine 842 arrived first, laid in and stretched a 200' pre-connect to division "C".  Engine 821 hooked up to the hydrant and sent their crew forward to stretch a secondary handline.  Ladder 84 arrived in Division "A" and conducted the investigation.  A fireplace fire with extension to moving blankets that were shoved under the fire box was found.  The fire was extinguished and the assignment was held to L-84, E-842, and E-821.  This fire is being investigated by the Camden County Fire Marshals Office.  While on location, Engine 841 handled an investigation at 6 North Black Horse Pike.  E-841 found an activated smoke detector laying in an alley.  We're guessing another burnt turkey. Station 84 went available at 1804.

Once again, at 2331, Stations 82, 84, and Squad 75 were dispatched to 21 Brookline Drive for an oven fire.  8203 arrived and confirmed a self cleaning oven fire.  Engine 821 arrived and conducted the investigation as Engine 842 stood by at the water supply.  The fire was contained to the oven and the assignment was held to E-821 and L-82.  Units returned at 2344.  This ended an extremely busy day for both Stations 84 and 82.

CRASH FATALLY INJURES ONE ON THE PIKE

11/23/2006-  At 0525, Rescue 84 was dispatched to 215 North Black Horse Pike for a motor vehicle crash with reported entrapment.  Initial reports provided by Camden County Communications indicated a vehicle  had struck a utility pole and was fully engulfed in flames.  8401 arrived and reported a single vehicle crash into a tree with a small fire in the undercarriage.  8401 extinguished the fire with a dry chemical extinguisher.  The sole occupant showed no signs of life and the companies were put on reduced speed.  Crews from Rescue 84, Engines 841 & 842, and Ladder 84 stood by to assist Gloucester Township Police with the accident investigation.  Crews extricated the occupant utilizing the Hurst hydraulic tools.  The company was made available at 0728.

ALL HANDS DWELLING FIRE IN BLENHEIM

11/13/2006-  At 1336, Stations 83, 82, and 84, along with BLS 806 were dispatched to 612 West Blenheim Avenue for a dwelling fire.  First responding fire officers 8201 (Reichert) and 8401 (Vannoni) reported a large column of smoke and struck the "All Hands" bringing ALS 41, Squad 62 and Squad 75.  8401 arrived and reported a 1 1/2 story single family dwelling with heavy fire on the C-D side.  Tower Ladder 84 arrived first and assumed first due truck company operations.  Engine 821 arrived next and were ordered to lead off with a 2 1/2" handline to division C.  Engine 842 reverse laid a supply line from 821 and Engine 831 secured a supply for TL-84.  A female resident of the dwelling had escaped on her own and was transported to a local area hospital.  Due to deteriorating conditions, interior operations ceased and lines were directed through windows.  TL-84 's main was set up on side A to hydraulically overhaul.  The fire was placed under control at about the 40 minute mark.  Crews remained on scene  to assist the County Fire Marshals with the investigation until 1635.  Photos provided by Rich Moulder

RESCUE ASSIGNMENT ON THE PIKE

11/09/2006-  On Thursday, at 0926 hours, the Blackwood Fire Company (Rescue 84), the Gloucester Township Emergency Medical Alliance (B.L.S. 805), the Virtua Health Systems Mobile Intensive Care Unit (A.L.S. 46), along with the Gloucester Township Police were dispatched to 215 North Black Horse Pike, for a reported man down and trapped beneath a pile of logs.  Upon the arrival of Chief John Vannoni (8401), initial reconnaissance revealed that one 55 year old male, who had been manually moving these logs, was trapped beneath numerous large pieces of tree, some weighing as much as 300 pounds.  Verbal contact was made with the patient who indicated he was a cardiac patient with a pace maker and that he was in extreme pain and was experiencing respiratory difficulty.  At this time only the patient’s arm and hand were visible.  To ensure adequate resources and staffing was available Rescue 82 (Chews Landing Fire Department) and Rescue 93 (Deptford Township Fire Department) were special called.  Heavy equipment (front end loaders) was requested from the Gloucester Township Public Works Department.  An aero medical helicopter from the New Jersey State Police (Southstar) was requested to fly.  An engine company from Washington Township (Gloucester County) was assigned to establish the landing zone.  Within 26 minutes from the initial dispatch of fire department resources the patient had been uncovered and was being packaged on a long board.  The patient was transported by ground to Cooper Trauma Center in Camden, where he was admitted in critical condition.  The rescue operation was completed at 0959 hours.  The cause of this accident is being investigated by the Gloucester Township Police Department and O.S.H.A.  Photos provided by Rich Moulder

Chief Vannoni conducts the initial survey of the scene.

Only the patient’s arm was visible during the initial reconnaissance.

Firefighter/EMT Anthony Miller attempts to make initial patient contact.

Personnel from Rescue 84 and Rescue 82 initiate the extrication.

Within 26 minutes the patient was uncovered and was packaged onto a long board.

The patient was transported by ground to Cooper Trauma Center by B.L.S. 805

CRASH ON BLACKWOOD CLEMENTON ROAD

11/07/2006-  At 2149, Station 84 responded to a reported motor vehicle crash in front of the Friendly's Restaurant.  Initial reports provided to Rescue 84, and Engine 841 were of a two vehicle crash involving downed wires with a person trapped inside.  Rescue 84 arrived and reported a crash involving a utility pole, with wires down on the vehicles in front of Nifty Fifty's, and assumed command as 840.  No occupants were observed inside either of the vehicles.    Crews assisted BLS with patient care and ensured onlookers did not come close to the potentially hazardous wires.  A granular absorbent dyke was placed in front of a storm drain to stop the oil from a leaking transformer from entering the storm sewer system.  Units remained on scene until 2335.  The cause of the crash is under investigation by Gloucester Township Police.

FULLY INVOLVED MOTOR HOME

11/03/2006-  On Friday, November 3, 2006, at 0049 hours, the Blackwood Fire Company (Engine 84) was dispatched to #1350 Little Gloucester Road (Quail Ridge Apartments) for a reported vehicle fire.  Almost immediately following the initial dispatch, the assignment was upgraded to a reported structure fire which added the Chews Landing Fire Department (Ladder 82) and the Gloucester Township EMS Alliance (BLS 806).  Upon  arrival of 8401, a twenty eight foot long motor home was discovered fully involved in the rear parking lot of the Quail Ridge Apartment complex; one automobile was parked within close proximity and presented an exposure hazard.  The fire was extinguished with two 1 ¾ inch lines by the crews of E-841 and E-842.  Rescue 846 established lighting and assisted with overhaul operations.  Although looked upon by some as just an oversized vehicle fire, recreational vehicles present a myriad of additional concerns that need to be addressed by the fire department operating at the scene of these fires.  Although a vehicle, it also presents many situations normally confronted at a structure fire.  Additionally, a large propane supply is normally mounted on these vehicles.  During this incident a line from the propane supply had failed and an active leak was created.  This situation was not permitted to complicate the incident as Engine 841’s Captain (William Robb), through his training and experience, had made locating the propane supply a priority and mitigated the leak by securing the main valve on the tank.  120 volt A.C. power is supplied to these units through a shore line or a generator along with two separate direct current electrical (12 volt) systems thus introducing several areas of potential electrical shock hazards.  No injuries were sustained as a result of this operation.  The cause of this fire is being investigated by the local fire marshal, the Camden County Fire Marshal’s office and the Gloucester Township Police Department.  After the fire was brought under control, the small amount of paint remaining on this unit made it clear that it was owned by a Philadelphia Eagles fan.  On behalf of all Eagles fans, I certainly hope this is not an indicator of the remainder of our beloved Eagles’ season.

Chief Vannoni (8401) arrived to find a Class “C” motor home fully engulfed in fire.

 

Firefighter Bob Sambuco (Engine 842) initiates an initial attack while a second line is deployed and the crew of Engine 841 move forward.

 
 

MOTORCYCLE STRIKES AUTO INJURING TWO

10/21/2006-  At 1235 hours, personnel from the Blackwood Fire Company (Station 84), who had just returned from an EMS call, monitored the Gloucester Township Police being dispatched to a crash, involving a motorcycle, just around the corner from Blackwood’s Central Avenue station.  Included in the initial report was that the cyclist was down on the highway and not moving.  Rescue 84 immediately responded.  The Gloucester Township Emergency Medical Alliance (B.L.S. 806), the Virtua Health Systems Mobile Intensive Care Unit (Medic 46), along with Station 84 were dispatched to the intersection of the Black Horse Pike and Marshal Avenue for this incident, while the rescue was en route.  Upon the arrival of Chief Vannoni (8401), a two vehicle crash involving a motorcycle and an automobile was discovered.  The cyclist was down on the highway and the driver of the automobile had exited his vehicle through the passenger door.  The crew of R-84 made patient contact with both patients and initiated primary assessments.  A second B.L.S. unit was requested for the driver of the automobile.  Fire Department personnel assisted with patient packaging and mitigating a minor non-recoverable fluid spill from the motorcycle.  B.L.S.  805 and 806 transported the patients to area hospitals.  Fire department resources cleared the scene at 1257 hours.    The cause of the crash is being investigated by the Gloucester Township Police Department.

Rescue 84 placed in a blocking position

Serious impact was caused to the driver’s door of the automobile by the striking motorcycle.

Fire Department and Police review the actions required at this scene.  The Blackwood Fire Company enjoys an extremely cooperative relationship with the Gloucester Township Police Department which fosters efficient scene management at emergency calls.

Lieutenant/EMT W. Shrader restores EMS equipment onto Rescue 84

TOWNHOUSE FIRE IN ERIAL

10/16/2006-  At 1232, Engine 84 was special called to 134 Hampshire Road, in the Erial section of town, for a dwelling fire.  Engine 842 responded and was assigned to check the "B" side exposure for extension.  The fire was quickly placed under control.  E-842 cleared the scene at 1415.

CRASH IN THE ESTATES

10/13/2006-  At 2243, Engine 84 was dispatched to 117 Indiana Avenue for a motor vehicle crash.  8401 (Vannoni) arrived to find several vehicles struck by a passenger vehicle.  Crews from Rescue 84 and Engine 842, safed all vehicles involved and applied granular absorbent to leaking fluids.  Station 84 went available at 2316.

VEHICLE FIRE ON RT. 42

10/11/2006-  At 1634, Blackwood Fire Co.'s Engine 84, Chews Landing Fire Co.'s Engine 82 and Deptford Fire Dept.'s Engine 93, along with the New Jersey State Police were dispatched to State Highway 42 in the area of milepost 10.8 northbound for a report of a vehicle fire. Upon the arrival of E-934 a fully-engulfed automobile was discovered in the center median. The crew quickly deployed a handline and made quick work of controlling the fire. Rescue 82 arrived second and assisted in completing extinguishment. New Jersey Department of Transportation Emergency Response personnel arrived on location to control traffic and to mitigate a minor fluid spill that stretched approximately one-half a mile along the northbound lanes of Route 42. Companies cleared at 5:07 p.m. with no injuries having occurred.

OVERTURNED ON BLACKWOOD CLEMENTON ROAD

10/8/2006-  At 1509, during the annual Pumpkin Festival, Rescue 84, BLS 805, and ALS 46 were dispatched to Blackwood-Clementon Road and Erial Roads for a motor vehicle crash with entrapment.  8402 (Carlin) arrived to find a two car crash with one on it's side.  The occupants of both vehicles had self extricated themselves.  Rescue 84 safed the vehicles and assisted BLS with patient packaging.  The company was made available at 1525.

KIDS HELPING KIDS

On Sunday, October 8, 2006 the Blackwood Fire Company kids hosted an Alex’s Lemonade Stand”.  They were successful in raising $524.43 for the Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation for Childhood Cancer.  Special thanks to Max Graphics from Berlin, NJ for their generous donation of t-shirts for our children to wear while serving lemonade; and to WaWa located in Blackwood, NJ for their generous donation of cups for the stand. For information on Alex’s Lemonade Foundation, visit www.alexslemonade.org.
 

GLOUCESTER TWP UNITS AT THE RIGHT PLACE AT THE RIGHT TIME

10/7/2006- At 0938 hours, the Camden County Communications Center transmitted an alarm for a motor vehicle crash with reports of people trapped at the intersection of Sicklerville Road and Chews Landing Road in Winslow Township.   Gloucester Township units were assembling for scheduled cooperative water rescue training off of Sicklerville Road in Station 85’s local.  After monitoring radio traffic indicating the severity of the incident, Rescue 84 notified communications of the companies drilling in proximity to the incident.  Rescue 84 was special called for extrication while Quint 85 was special called to set up a landing zone for two responding medical helicopters.  Rescue 84 responded with a crew comprised of Station 84 and Station 85 members.  Quint 85 responded with a crew comprised of Station 85 and Station 81 members.  Rescue 84 arrived on location to find Winslow Township F.D. Squad 257 and Winslow Township BLS 255 operating at a two vehicle head on collision involving a passenger car and an SUV.  Two occupants of the passenger car were trapped in the front seat. Winslow Township Battalion 2504 (Haines) established command while Rescue 84’s officer (Kemery) was assigned as the extrication officer.  Squad 257 and BLS 255 removed the passenger for transportation to the landing zone.  Rescue 84 split its crew, deploying the 40 inch Hurst spreaders to assist Squad 257 with forcing open the driver’s door while also positioning other tools and equipment within an established forward staging area in case further extrication was necessary.  The driver was removed after the door was popped and also transported to the landing zone.  With no further services required, Gloucester Township units returned to service at 1036 hours for continuation of scheduled training.   Photos provided by Rich Moulder   

CRASH ON THE PIKE

10/5/2006-  Just prior to 1530, Engine 84 was dispatched to Black Horse Pike and Frankford Avenue for a crash involving a commercial motor vehicle.  8401 (Vannoni) and Rescue 84 arrived to find a passenger vehicle had collided with a dump truck trailering a paving machine.  Heavy front end damage to the passenger vehicle caused the leak of antifreeze on the highway.  The non-recoverable spill was mitigated utilizing granular absorbent.  The vehicles battery was disconnected, and units were made available at 1538.

SMALL FIRE AT LAKEVIEW APARTMENTS

10/4/2006-  At 2228, Task Force 82 (Stations 82, 83, 84, Squad 75, and BLS 806) was dispatched to building 47 of Lakeview Apartments for a reported apartment fire.  Initial reports provided by Camden County Communications to 8202 (Weiserth) were of smoke from the roof and unknown what apartment was on fire.  8202 arrived and advised GTPD were reporting 47-B, a ground floor apartment, had a medium smoke condition.  8401 arrived and assumed division "C", and reported a mulch fire on the exterior of the building.  Tower Ladder 84, Engine 842, and Engine 821 arrived simultaneously.   TL-84 was ordered to utilize their front bumper line to extinguish the fire as E-821s crew were to check floors two and three for extension and smoke conditions.  Engine 842 stood by at the hydrant.  The fire was extinguished and crews were made available at 2309.                          Photos provided by Rich Moulder

CAR VS. UTILITY POLE ON  BLACKWOOD-CLEMENTON ROAD

10/4/2006-  Engines 82 and 84 were dispatched to 1223 Blackwood-Clementon Road for a motor vehicle crash at 1726.  8401 (Vannoni) arrived to find a two car crash with one into a utility pole.  Crews from Rescue 84 and Engine 842 assisted BLS with patient treatment and mitigation of non-recoverable spills.  Units were made available at 1756.

KITCHEN FIRE AT PINE HILL GARDENS APARTMENTS

10/2/2006-  At 0359, Task Force 625, bringing units from Stations 62, 632, 611, and 84, was dispatched to 350 Blackwood Clementon Road at the Pine Hill Garden Apartments, unit 304  for and apartment fire.  Police were on location reporting heavy smoke showing.  6201 (Wright) arrived on location and reported a working fire and struck the "All Hands" bringing Rescue 82 and the ISAT.  Squad 62 arrived, secured their own water supply, and stretched an 1 3/4" handline through the front door.   Rescue 84 arrived and assisted the crew on the initial handline, as Engine 842 stood by at a secondary water supply.  The fire was quickly extinguished and contained to the original fire apartment.  Units from Station 84 went available at 0450.

APARTMENT FIRE IN BLENHEIM

9/23/2006-  Shortly before 1900, Stations 83, 82, and 84, along with BLS 805 were dispatched to 31 Peters Lane, Apartment K-5 for an apartment fire.  Initial reports given to 8209 (Gargano), were of numerous calls reporting heavy smoke from the apartment.  8209 arrived and confirmed a working fire with heavy smoke and reported people trapped.  Engine 842 arrived, dropped a supply line, and operated with an 1 3/4" handline.  Tower Ladder 84 arrived and conducted a primary search of the apartment above the fire while the outside team vented "C" division and threw ground ladders.  Both 842 and TL-84 crews reported negative results on entrapment.  The fire was quickly extinguished and was held to the apartment of origin.  Station 84 went available at 2104.  Photos provided by Rich Moulder

Heavy fire venting from B and C sides TL-84 Outside Vent doing their job
 

BLACKWOOD ASSISTS IN FINDING MISSING JUVENILE

9/23/2006-  At 1621, Station 84 was dispatched to 3 Fraser Road in the Chestnut Glen section of town to assist the Police in finding a missing 8 year old autistic boy.  Upon arrival of Engine 842 and Rescue 84 at the command post, a description of the juvenile was given and a search area was established.  Additional resources from Stations 82, 85 and 86 were requested for manpower.  Shortly after starting their search, Engine 842 reported they found the uninjured juvenile in a drainage ditch not far from his residence.  After a family member confirmed the identity, the assignment was recalled.  During the search, a GTPD officer injured his leg.  Engine 841 handled patient care until BLS arrived.  Units cleared the scene at 1649.

DUTY CREW HELD OVER WILDWOOD WEEKEND

9/17/2006-  While many members took a much needed vacation to Wildwood for the annual Fireman's Convention.  Several members manned the station around the clock to ensure an adequate response.  From Thursday to Sunday, Station 84 handled 14 calls for service averaging 8 personnel per call.  Thanks to the members who stood by in quarters.

MEMBERS ATTEND DEDICATION CEREMONY FOR CAMDEN FIREFIGHTER  MEMORIAL

9/9/2006-  Members attend the dedication ceremony for Camden City firefighters memorial.  The granite memorial was erected at Camden City Fire Headquarters, located at 3rd and Federal Streets, to honor the 24 Camden City firefighters who have died in the line of duty in the departments 137 year history. 

ADDITION TO BLACKWOOD'S EXTENDED FAMILY

9/6/2006-  Blackwood Fire Company would like to congratulate FF Brian Szalabofka and his significant other on the birth of their baby boy, Tyler James Szalabofka.  Baby Szalabofka was born on August 29, 2006 and weighed in at 8lb. 9oz. Both baby and mother are doing fine.

 

SMALL FIRE AT LACASCATA APARTMENTS

9/4/2006-  Just after clearing a smoke scare at Checkers Restaurant on Blackwood-Clementon Road, Camden County Communications advised 8202 (Weiserth) of a reported apartment fire at 145 Lacascata.  Stations 82, 84, 62 and Squad 75, were dispatched at 0050.  8202 arrived to find a small rubbish fire on the rear porch of the unit.  Engine 842 arrived and extinguished the fire with a pressurized water can.  820 held the assignment to Engines 842 and 821.  CFM 16 requested for an investigation.  Units cleared the scene at 0106.

FOUNTAINVIEW VILLAGE APARTMENT FIRE GOES TO 6 ALARMS

9/1/2006-  At 0510 hours, Stations 84 and 82, along with BLS 805, were dispatched to Fountainview Village Apartments N building for a reported building fire.  Upon responding 8401 (Chief Vannoni) received information from the Camden County Communications Center that they were receiving numerous calls reporting fire showing from the rear of the building.  Based on this report, and monitoring GTPD radio traffic, the "All Hands" was struck, bringing the ISAT and a F.A.S.T.  GTPD evacuated all residents from the building.  8401 arrived and reported a 4 story garden apartment with fire showing from the middle archway and a report of residents jumping from their apartments.  Shortly after, a second and third alarm was transmitted.  Engine 842 arrived, dropped a 5" supply line, and stretched a 1 3/4" handline to the second floor.  Engine 841 arrived shortly after and were ordered to take first truck company duties as Engine 821 picked up 842's supply line and stretched a second handline.  By this time, the fire had traveled through void spaces to the fourth floor, where crews encountered fire running the cockloft on both sides of the archway.  A change in tactics was made and the interior attack was abandoned and an exterior attack was initiated.  The emergency evacuation signal was transmitted to insure all interior crews were evacuated prior to placing the elevated streams of Tower Ladder 844 into service.  An additional two Engines and a Truck company were dedicated to C division to establish large caliber waterlines to an area inaccessible to fire apparatus.  A 5" supply line was hand drug through the C buildings archway and was broken down to two 3" blitz lines.  TL-844 set up on side A and went into service with the bucket mounted master streams.  A fourth and fifth alarm were struck for additional personnel who were utilized to access the exposure apartments for the purpose of stopping the fire from running the mansards.  The fire was placed under control at 0640.  A sixth alarm was struck at 0737 for additional manpower.  There were no fire department injuries reported and only one civilian injury (twisted ankle).   Lt. Chris Jones of GTPD and a former Captain with Blackwood Fire Company is credited with assisting in saving a two year old child who was handed down from floor two.  The fire is under investigation by Local and County Fire Marshals Office, as well as GTPD, Camden County Prosecutors Office, and the ATF.  Photos courtesy of Steve Skipton and Frank Vannoni

   

More Photos

Video

INCONVENIENT FIRE AT CONVENIENCE STORE

8/31/2006-  Early Thursday morning, Stations 84, 83 and 82 were dispatched to 508 East Church Street at the 7-11 convenient store for a reported building fire.  8401 arrived to find light smoke inside store. Investigation revealed a small fire in the area of the bathroom exhaust fan. A portable fire extinguisher was discharged on the fire prior to FD arrival.  TL-84 arrived, interior crew conducted the investigation. E-841 laid a 5" supply line and stretched a 1 3/4" handline to the front door.   Neither line was charged, as the investigation revealed the fire was out.  Stations were made available at 0326.

RESCUE AND LADDER TO WATERFORD FOR 3RD ALARM

8/27/2006-  On Monday evening, at 2302, Rescue 84 was dispatched for a F.A.S.T. assignment in Waterford Township for a  building fire.  Shortly after, Ladder 84 along with the rest of Task Force "F" responded on the 3rd alarm and staged at the Atco Multiplex. Task Force "F" was dispatched for a wires call, in front of Station 211.  Units went available at 0025.

DWELLING FIRE WITH REPORTED ENTRAPMENT

8/24/2006-  At 0203, Stations 84 and 83 were dispatched to 215 North Black Horse Pike for a dwelling fire with reported people trapped.  Medics and ISAT added to box shortly after initial dispatch.  8403 arrived on location to find a large two story L shaped dwelling with light smoke from Division A. Police advised all occupants were out, and the electricity had been shut off at the breaker box. Investigation revealed a small fire at the base of the door frame leading to the commercial occupancy.  Fire extinguished with one 1 3/4" handline by E-842's crew. Tower crew opened up around the fire and confirmed the occupants were out.   Cause and origin investigation conducted by FM-84 and CFM 16.

RESCUE ASSIGNMENT IN WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP

8/23/2006-  At 2043 Rescue 84 was special called to Wilson Road and Woodbury-Turnersville Road in Washington Township for a motor vehicle crash with entrapment.  R-84 arrived and completed removal of B post and driver front door, assisted in packaging and removal.  Rescue 84 went available at 2125.

AUXILIARY TO HOLD FUNDRAISER AT FRIENDLY'S RESTAURANT

8/22/2006-  The Auxiliary is having a fund raiser night at Friendly's (Blackwood Clementon Road) on Wednesday, August 23, 2006 from 5:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.  10% of their sales between those times will be donated to the Auxiliary.  Stop by, have a great meal, and help support the Blackwood Fire Company Auxiliary.

TRAINING ANNOUNCEMENT

8/22/2006-  WATER RESCUE PRACTICAL EVOLUTIONS on SUNDAY, AUGUST 27, 2006 starting at 0900 hours.  PLEASE BE PROMPT!!  Training hosted by Station 85 and to be held at the Cobblestone Quarry.  All companies to meet at the Mullen school at 0900 hours.  (Alternate Drill Credit)

ENGINE 842 ON LDH TASK FORCE FOR OAKLYN 5 ALARMER

8/20/2006-  On Sunday, at 0454, Engines from Blackwood, Chews Landing, Glendora, Lindenwold, Somerdale, and Deptford, were special called just after the second alarm to Oaklyn for a 5" Task Force assignment.  Units met at the Home Depot in Lawnside, and were deployed to the scene of the fire to establish a water supply 2100 feet from the building involved.  After establishing the supply, crews went forward to assist with extinguishment efforts.  Members from Blackwood and Chews Landing manned a ground monitor on the C-D side of the building.  Units from Pipeline A cleared the scene at 0014.  Photos courtesy of Rich Moulder

NEIGHBOR EXTINGUISHES FIRE WITH GARDEN HOSE

8/19/2006-  At 0256, Engine 84 was dispatched to 421 Central Avenue for an investigation.  Upon arrival of 8401, he found and extinguished fire that had involved the exterior of the dwelling.  The fire had been extinguished by a neighbor with the garden hose of the affected residence.  Engine 841 stood by with local and County Fire Marshals and GTPD during the investigation.  No cause has been determined.  Engine 841 went available at 0416.

 

MEMBERS PAY TRIBUTE TO LIFE MEMBER OF LAMBS TERRACE

8/10/2006-  Firefighter George D. Spain Jr., a life member and active firefighter with the Lambs Terrace Fire Company passed away on August 3, 2006.  The officers and members of the Blackwood Fire Company offer our condolences to the family, friends and station which he faithfully served for fifty two years. 
Personnel from Blackwood Fire Company salute Firefighter George D. Spain Jr. as Squad 852 carries him through the intersection of Church Street and the Black Horse Pike in Blackwood.  Firefighter Spain served on the truck committee to acquire Squad 852 which has been outfitted with a plaque dedicating the apparatus in his name.
Tower Ladder 84 and Tower 82 provide an arch at the entrance to the cemetery.

COMMERCIAL VEHICLE FIRE ON HIGHWAY SNARLS TRAFFIC

8/4/2006-  Early Friday morning, Engines 83, 82, and 84 were dispatched to North State Highway 42 at mile post 10 for a vehicle fire.  8401 (Vannoni) arrived to find smoke and flames from the undercarriage of a tri-axle dump truck.  Engine 842 arrived and deployed the front bumper line to quickly extinguish the fire.  Engine 841 and Rescue 82 were staged South of the incident and were subsequently recalled.  Engine 842 went available shortly after.

RESCUE 84 ON TASK FORCE COVER IN GLOUCESTER COUNTY

8/2/2006-  At 1437, Rescue 84, along with units from Clementon (E-61-1), Stratford (E-64-1), Pine Hill (TL-62), and Lawnside (Sqd-27-2) were dispatched to Gloucester County Station 7-3 (Westville) for a Task Force "D" cover assignment. A commercial motor vehicle crash in Harrison Township, involving an overturned gasoline tanker leaking product, had exhausted resources from the area.  With a rather lengthy operation being forecasted, Station 84 made arrangements to rotate crews at 6 hour intervals, covering until 0500 the next morning.  During the stay, Task Force "D" answered three calls, which included two alarm systems and a reported dwelling fire.  The officer from R-84 had the Task Force "D" command.  The Task Force was released at 2200.  Members would like to thank the Westville Fire Company and their members for their hospitality.

 

BLACKWOOD PARTICIPATES IN NATIONAL NIGHT OUT ACTIVITIES

8/1/2006-  Members of the Blackwood Fire Company participated in National Night Out activities at two locations in the Blackwood section of the township.  The events, hosted by Town Watch Organizations from Blackwood Estates and Chestnut Glen, are intended to raise community awareness regarding crime prevention, and give community residents the opportunity to meet and socialize with their neighbors.  These events also provide the fire service with an excellent opportunity to display their apparatus and educate the public on fire safety.

 

TOWNSHIP WIDE WATER RESCUE TRAINING

7/31/2006-  On the last day of the month, Gloucester Township Fire Companies, Stations 81, 82, 84, 85, and 86, along with Pine Hill Fire Company (Station 62), met at Timber Creek High School for the first of a two part water rescue drill.  This evening, companies were to display all the surface water/ice rescue equipment and to explain the capabilities of their company.  After reviewing the equipment carried, companies discussed the bodies of water in the area that pose the most threat of a possible incident and access to same.  The second part of the drill will be conducted on August 19, 2006 and will include hands on training.  All members are encouraged to attend this cooperative training.

SEVERED GAS LINE FORCES EVACUATION OF RESIDENTS

7/31/2006-  At 1153, Station 84 responded to a reported natural gas leak outside of 15 Fraser Road in the Chestnut Glen section of town.  Upon arrival of TL-844, they found a fencing company had been digging and struck the main service to the residence.  Engine 842 stood by at a water supply, and an additional Engine was requested from Chews Landing (Engine 82) to ensure a secondary water supply could be established for the Tower.  Residents in the immediate area were evacuated and companies stood by while South Jersey Gas crimped the line.  The Station was made available at 1305.

HAZ-MAT 8 SPECIAL CALLED FOR DECON IN GLENDORA

7/18/2006-  At 0058, Haz-Mat 8 was requested to respond to 635 Front Street in the Glendora Section of town to assist the Police.  Rescue 84 and HM-8 responded to assist with manpower and decontamination of personnel assigned to removing multiple cats from the  residence.  Rescue 84 and HM-8 went available at 0246.

HOT START FOR JULY

7/08/2006-  Blackwood firefighters started the month known for fireworks with a bang.  During the first week of July members have answered 30 calls for service.  Two severe storms pounded the area this week.  On Sunday July 2 a severe storm with heavy rain and severe lightning passed through the area, resulting in a working house fire.  The busiest day of the week, July 4, firefighters kept 4 pieces of apparatus and a Chief staffed and handled 15 calls for service during another severe thunderstorm, this one packing winds in excess of 60 mph.  These incidents were in addition to our normal workload. 

 While holiday times during the summer are traditionally a time of low manpower due to volunteers vacationing and taking part in other summer activities we maintained an average of 13.8 firefighters per call during this first week of July.

Thank you to all of our members who gave of their time during the holiday week to provide service to the public.  In this week of severe weather the station was staffed prior to the storm arriving by members monitoring the weather and anticipating the need for service, these members allowed us to plan and allocate apparatus and crews to handle multiple incidents simultaneously.  Again, thanks for the fantastic effort.

THUNDER STORM ROCKS BLACKWOOD AREA

7/04/2006-  At about 1530 a violent thunderstorm passed through the area causing all kinds of damage.  In all, Station 84 handled 11 calls for service varying from wires down to trees toppled over.

ALL HANDS DWELLING FIRE

7/02/2006-  While members were running a duty crew, at 2024, Stations 84 and 83 along with BLS 805 were dispatched to 312 South Drive for a reported dwelling fire.  Reports provided to 8402 (Carlin) indicated police were on location reporting a working fire.  8402 arrived to find medium smoke showing from windows and attic vents of a one story 40 x30 single family dwelling.  The "All Hands" was struck adding Engine 62 and Utility 81.  TL84 arrived and initiated search and outside vent.  Engine 841 arrived and secured their own water supply and deployed 1 3/4" to Division A. Engine 842 stretched a back up line from E-841 to Division A.  Rescue 82, already on the street, were requested to respond and assigned to the FAST company. Engine 821 was also requested to respond and assigned Division A.  The fire was contained to the basement ceiling, with no extension to first floor.  The cause of the fire is being investigated by FM84 and CFM5.  The companies were made available at 2348.

DUMPSTER FIRE

6/26/2006-  At 1623, Engine 84 was dispatched for a dumpster fire at Associated Building Specialties located at 20 Frankford Avenue.  FM84 (Kemery) arrived first and reported a well involved dumpster.  Engine 841 arrived and operated the front bumper handline to extinguish the fire without any damage to the exposure building.  The company was made available at 1649.

Crews arrive and begin to deploy hoseline
Engines 841 and 842 in foreground with Tower Ladder 844 staged to the rear.  Due to the close proximity of the dumpster to the building both engines and the ladder responded.
 
After wetting the building down, crews wait for one of the team members to cut the lock off the side door to facilitate complete extinguishment.
 

EARLY MORNING VEHICLE FIRE

6/23/2006-  On Friday morning at 0415, Engine 84 was dispatched to 1501 Little Gloucester Road at the Fountainview Village Apartments in front of "M" building for a vehicle fire.  Engine 842 arrived to find three vehicles well involved and advised communications they would be operating.  Engine 841 arrived next and supplied tank water to E-842.  An additional engine from station 82 was requested, Engine 821 arrived and assisted with manpower.  The cause is under investigation by FM-84.  The station was made available at 0519.

TWO CAR CRASH REQUIRES DOOR REMOVAL

6