| 8 | |
| 11 | |
| 14 | |
| 5 | |
| 7 | |
| 6 | |
|
December |
|
|
52 |
|
|
Total for 2012 |
165 |
| 173 | |
| 125 | |
| 141 | |
| 3 | |
| 3 | |
| 2 | |
| 14 |
Welcome to The Alburtis Volunteer Fire Department Website
***The Alburtis Fire Dept is looking for new members.***
Check out our recruitment page for more information.
Recent Events
R.I.T to Fatal Dwelling Fire in Emmaus
3/17/2013 1158hrs Station 1 R.I.T was dispatched to assist Emmaus Fire on a Working Apt Building Fire with Entrapment. RE141 responded with a full crew. Once on scene the crews split into 2 teams, 1 to the front and 1 to the rear of the building. Later into the call Station 11 R.I.T. was also requested to the scene due to the instability of the building and crews attempting to make entry into the building. Station 1 crews also assisted with fire ground support, fire knockdown and overhaul. Station 1 operated on the scene for about 7 hours. Unfortunately four people died in this fire. The members of the Alburtis Fire Dept send their thoughts and prayers to the family and friends of everyone involved. Thanks to Newsworking for the photo
Departments on Scene included Emmaus, Vera Cruz, Lower Macungie, Alburtis (RIT), Greenawalds (RIT), Western Salisbury (Cascade), North Penn Goodwill (Canteen). EMS from Emmaus, Macungie and Cetronia. Services from the Red Cross, LC Coroner, Emmaus Police, State Police Fire Marshal.
Additional photos and videos can be seen at:
Nester Video Productions Photos
Nester Video Productions Video
Hereford Twsp Structure Fire
February 20th, 1232hrs E112 and TA121 were dispatched to assist Hereford Fire Dept on a Working Structure Fire. Both Units responded. E112 crew assisted with fire attack and overhaul. TA121 hauled a load of water. It was nice working with departments we don't normally work with from Berks, Bucks, Montgomery and Lehigh Counties. Additional Pictures Coming Soon.
Franklin St MVA
February 15th, 0932hrs Station 66 and 1 were dispatched to Franklin St in Alburtis for an MVA W/ Injuries. 105(Captain George) arrived on scene and established command and found a 2 vehicle MVA with vehicles still in traffic and everyone out of the vehicle with 2 patients. RE141 responded and provided PT care until EMS arrived on scene and transported to a local trauma center. Crew then provided battery disconnect, spill control and clean up. Station 25 and 30 were also requested for fire police.
Fire on the Tracks
February 10th, 1840hrs Station 1 and TA2521 were dispatched to Front St and Main St for an Unknown Type Fire along the railroad. E112, RE141 and TA121 responded and located a malfunctioning propane switch heater on the tracks. Norfolk Southern RR was notified and responded and shut down the heater. Crews extinguished the fire and cleared.
January 22nd 2012
The Alburtis Fire Dept regrets to announce the passing of Past Fire Chief Paul "Siggie" Seigfried Jr. Siggie was also the EMA Director for Alburtis Borough. Siggie was a member for the past 60 years. While Siggie was technically retired from the Fire Dept he could often be found at the station working on projects or just hanging out. You will be missed. Rest in Peace.
2012 Year End Review
In 2012 the Alburtis Fire Dept responded to a total of 165 calls including 22 working fires. The R.I.T. team responded to 9 calls this year. QRS responded to 32 calls. We responded to calls in 13 different municipalities including 56 calls in Alburtis, 65 in Lower Macungie, 18 in Upper Macungie, 10 in Longswamp, 5 in Hereford, 2 in Kutztown, Emmaus and South Whitehall and 1 in Weisenberg, Macungie, Maxatawany, Upper Milford and Salisbury.
R.I.T responds to Emmaus
At around 0045hrs Station 1 Rapid Intervention Team was dispatched on the 2nd alarm assignment into Emmaus Borough on a fully involved Dwelling Fire. RE141 respond with a full crew. Unit arrived on scene and set up R.I.T staging across from the fire building. Crew stood by without incident.
November 2nd 2012
At 1905hrs Station 1 was dispatched to Station 3 Cetronia Fire Dept. for a Fire Standby while they operated at a 3rd alarm dwelling fire. RE141 stood by with a crew of 7 without incident. Station 1 also had a 2nd crew standing by at Station 1.
November 1st 2012
At 0027hrs Station 1 RIT was dispatched with Berks Companies 39, 58, 21 and 97 for a Structure Fire. RE141 responded with a crew of 7. Crew arrived on scene and RIT briefly staged. Once it was determined all operations would be exterior the crew was put to work with fire suppression and overhaul. TA121 was eventually added to the box and dumped 4 loads of water.
October 29th-30th
Crews were kept busy over a 2 day period while Hurricane Sandy struck the area. Crews responded to 24 calls for service over this time period. These calls ranged from wires and trees down to structural collapses, Automatic Fire alarms and dwelling fires. Crews also responded to Schoeneck Rd in LMT for a Cardiac Arrest. Units arrived on scene and found a generator inside a closed garage and extension cords run throughout the house. Crews decided to check the house for CO levels and found high readings throughout the house. Unfortunately the female and several pets inside the house had succumbed to the CO poisoning. This is an unfortunate reminder not to used generators inside and enclosed area. Thoughts and prayers go out to the victim’s family.
October 22nd 2012
The Alburtis Fire Dept. regrets to announce the passing of Fire Police Captain and Mayor of Alburtis Robert (Bob) Mader. Bob was a great friend and a mentor to many of us. He will be greatly missed. Please keep the family and Fire Dept. in your thoughts and prayers as this will be a truly difficult time for us. Please see Above for funeral details.
Fire Prevention 2012
Our first fire prevention program of the year was held at the Alburtis Camp Fire Cabin. Crews talked to the children about fire safety and 911. The kids also got to see a fire fighter in full turnout gear so they could see what one looks like so they wont be scared if one ever comes to help them. Children then got a tour of the fire truck.
R.I.T. Respond to Salisbury
Station 1 RIT was dispatched with Station 31 on a 2nd alarm assignment for a Dwelling Fire. R141 responded with a crew of 6. Unit arrived on scene and set up RIT staging and stood by without incident. After the fire was under control and RIT was broken down crews assisted with overhaul.
Vehicle Fire with Exposures
8/6/2012 2333hrs. Station 1 was dispatched with Berks Company 21 to Willington Cir. in Longswamp for a Vehicle Fire with Exposures. Units arrived on scene and found 2 vehicles fully involved with some extension into the residence. E112 and R141 responded and stood by on scene until being released.
I78 Tractor Trailer Fire 8/6/2012
TA121 was dispatched to I78 MM 49.8 EB to assist Station 8 on a Working Tractor Trailer Fire. TA121 was directed to a warehouse that sits next to I78 and was the first fire apparatus on that side of the fire so it was put to work as an engine company. Crews pulled 2- 1 3/4 handlines, a 150' leader line and hit a hydrant. Crew assisted with the fire knock down and overhaul. Crews operated on scene for several hours.
Photos Courtesy of Mike Nester of Nester Video Productions.
Dwelling Fire W/ Station 25 7/29/2012
TA2521, E5611, E112, TK2531 and ST62 were dispatched to Starling Rd in Upper Macungie Twsp for a Dwelling Fire. Additional was for a hole in the floor with visable fire. E112 arrived first on scene with TK2531 closely behind. Crews pulled an 1 3/4 line to the basement. Once in the basement crews found a small fire that was quickly extinguished with a water can and the hose line was never charged. Great Job by all Stations.
Additional Photos Courtesy of T&C Photography
Dwelling Fire W/ Station 19 7/5/2012
Station 1 was dispatched to assist Station 19 on a Working Dwelling Fire. E112 and RE141 both responded with a crew of 6. Crews assisted with fire attack, overhaul and clean up. Both E112 and RE141 were used in a relay to pump water back the mile long driveway. RE141 was at the hydrant and E112 was placed at the halfway point. Crews operated for about 3 hours and were rotated often due to the excessive heat.
Busy Day July 14th 2012
Members started their day early working at the Applebees in Trexlertown. Crews were holding an all you can eat pancake and sausage fundraiser. Crew members served guests their food and bussed the tables. We had a good turnout and look forward to holding another one this fall or winter. While crews were at the fundraiser they were dispatched along with Station 66 to Mertztown Rd in LMT for an MVA W/ Rollover. R141 responded from Applebees. Unit arrived on scene and found 1 vehicle on its roof. Bystanders advised the driver of the vehicle has fled into a wooded area. The driver was later found by PD. Crews controlled hazards and cleared once towing removed the vehicle.
Dwelling Fire W/ Station 30 7/7/2012
Station 1 was requested to assist station 30 on Yorkshire Dr in Lower Macungie Twsp on a Dwelling fire. E112 responded and assisted with fire extinguishment and overhaul. The Fire was originally dispatched as a gas odor in the dwelling. 3001 arrived on scene and found heavy fire coming from the house.
Pics Courtesy of Dennis Wetherhold
MVA W/ Rollover and Fire 7/2/2012
Station 66 and 1 were dispatched to Longswamp Rd and Smith Ln for a MVA with Rollover and Fire. 105 arrived on scene with a corrected location of Ruth Ln between Smith Ln and Spring Creek Rd. Units had a 1 vehicle MVA where a pick up truck rolled over and burst into flames, all occupants were out of the vehicle. Rescue Engine 141 arrived on scene and pulled an 1 3/4 line while EMS tended to the patients. Crews had a tough time knocking down the fire due to a gas leak that kept reigniting.
National Fire Dog Monument
While training at Mack South Fire Training Grounds the crew of Alburtis Fire Dept got an unexpected treat. The National Fire Dog monument made at stop in Allentown. The crew got an opportunity to see the monument and also meet Allentown Fire K9 Judge.
June 13th Barn Fire and Standby
Tanker 121 along with Tanker 5121 and Tanker 2521 were dispatched with Kutztown Fire for a working Barn Fire on Siegfriedale Rd in Maxatawny Twsp. Tanker 121 dumped several loads of water before being released. At 1311hrs E112 was dispatched for a move up assignment to Kutztown Fire Dept. Crew stood by for several hours before being released. No calls were run during the standby.
3 Calls 5/24/2012
Station 1 was dispatched to Standby at their station to covers calls in Southern Lehigh County while other units operated at a multi-alarm fire at the Leithsville Fire Dept in Lower Saucon, Northampton County. While standing by the crews responded to 2 calls within their 1st due area. The first was an AFA and was handled by E112 and was determined to be accidental. The 2nd call was to assist a tractor trailer driver who got hung up trying to make a turn. Crews removed a street sign so the truck could complete its turn and units cleared.
Barn Fire in the Swamp
5/12/2012 0924hrs. Station 1 was dispatched with Topton Fire on the first alarm assignment for a Barn Fire. E112, TA121 and RE141 responded within minutes. E112 was directed to set up a fill site at Chris Bait and Tackle, TA121 responded to the scene and supplied Aerial 21 and RE141 sent its crew to the manpower pool. Crews later assisted with overhaul on the barn. The fire eventually went to 3 alarms. The fire was contained to one barn and was believed to have been started after a tractor caught fire inside the barn. The tractor was removed however sparks may have dropped and caught straw on fire.
Station 1 responds on 2nd Alarm Hotel Fire
4/20/2012 1800hrs. E3011, E112, E5111, TK2531, R21 and Station 1 R.I.T. were sent on a 2nd alarm assignment with station 8 to the Hilton Garden Inn in Upper Macungie. E112 responded and the Engine Co and R141 responded in on the R.I.T. assignment. E112 crew staged until released. R141 crew set up a R.I.T. Staging area and stood by without incident until released. The Fire was believed to have started as a mulch fire on the outside of the structure.
March 22nd New Rescue in Service.
Today our "New" rescue truck was placed into service. The Truck is a 1997 Simon Duplex and replaced our old rescue and our 1976 Mack. Within 3 hours of being in service the Rescue ran its for call for a commercial structure fire. The unit responded however its services were not needed and it was released soon after going on scene. Please check out more info on the truck in the apparatus section.
2 Recent calls in Longswamp
On February 27th Station 1 was dispatched with Topton Fire on a Dwelling Fire. E112 and TA121 responded. Topton Fire arrived on scene and found a fire in a small cottage. The fire quickly knocked down and Station 1 units were released after staging briefly. On March 4th Station 1 was dispatched with Topton Fire on another Dwelling Fire. E112 and TA121 were responding immediately after dispatch. E112 arrived 1st on scene and sent a crew to the basement. The crew determined it to be a oil burner malfunction. Crews checked the residence for CO and were released soon after. On both calls Topton EMS, Seisholtzville Fire and Eastern Berks Fire Dept were also dispatched.
Dwelling Fire in Upper Mac 2/7/2012
E112 and E3011 were dispatched with Station 25 for a dwelling fire. Additional was for smoke in the residence with a possible fire under the trailer. E5611, TA2521 and E811 arrived on scene and found a small fire under the trailer. E112 crew assisted with ventilation of the residence. Crew opened windows and set up a PPV fan. The unit was then released.
Dwelling Fire in Alburtis 2/6/2012
Station 1, Tanker 2521, Truck 21, and EMS 575 were dispatched to Cobblestone Ct in Alburtis for a Dwelling Fire. Additional was for a deck fire. 103 (Asst. Chief Trexler) arrived on scene with smoke showing. He advised there was a fire at the back of the residence that is believed to have extended into the residence. E112 arrived on scene and pulled an 1 3/4 handline and entered the residence. Crews encountered a moderate smoke condition and fire in the rear of the house. Crews knocked down the fire with aprox 100 gallons of water. E111 crew arrived on scene and hand stretched a supply line to the hydrant. TA2521 arrived on scene and the crew forced entry into the attached exposure residence to check for extension. Crews found extension and knocked down that fire with 2 water cans. TK21 arrived on scene and was placed in front of the residence. They were not needed to set up and the crew assisted with overhaul. Crews were on scene aprox 3 hours doing over haul and assisting with the investigation. At this time the cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Dwelling Fire in the Swamp 2/4/2012
Engine 112 and Tanker 121 were dispatched with Berks Station 21 for a Dwelling Fire. Additional was for a kitchen fire. Both the engine and tanker responded. E112 was first on scene and was advised to pull an 1 3/4 handline. Aerial 21 arrived right behind E112. Crews entered the dwelling and found a small fire in the kitchen. The fire was quickly knocked down. Crews performed overhaul and station 1 crews were clear in about an hour.
New Rescue Engine arrives
The Alburtis Fire Dept took delivery of the Rescue Engine it purchased from Limerick Fire Dept. After picking up the truck crews had the truck measured for a new hose bed cover and then dropped the truck off at the paint shop so it can be painted with Alburtis Fire Dept pain scheme of black over red. Paint it expected to take 3-4 weeks followed by approx. 1 week for lettering and striping. Crews hope to have the truck in service by the end of February. Check back often as we will have photos with the progress of the truck.
Dwelling Fire in the Borough 1st call of the New Year
1/2/2012 Station 1, Tanker 2521, Truck 21 and Station 66 were dispatched to E 2nd St in Alburtis for a Dwelling Fire. Additional from LCR was for a dryer fire. Units arrived on scene and found a small fire contained to the duct work of the dryer. The original fire was extinguished by the homeowner. Crews checked for extension and did some minor overhaul.
Year End Review
In 2011 the Alburtis Fire Dept responded to a total of 173 calls, including 14 working fires, 5 rescues and 38 QRS calls. We ran calls in 11 different Municipalities.
70 Calls in Alburtis Borough
64 Calls in Lower Macungie Township
15 Calls in Upper Macungie Township
9 Calls in Longswamp Township Berks County
5 Calls in Emmaus Borough
4 Calls in Hereford Township Berks County
2 Calls in District Township Berks County
1 Call in Macungie Borough, Upper Milford Township, Maxatawny Township and Salisbury Township
2 R.I.T calls and a Tanker Run
December 27th Station 1 R.I.T. was dispatched with Station 31 on a 2nd alarm Dwelling Fire on Green Acres Dr in Salisbury. E112 was recalled soon after responding due to a good knock down by the 31 crew. December 28th Station 1 R.I.T was dispatched with Station 7 on a 2nd alarm dwelling fire on Furnace St in Emmaus. The crew set up their staging area and then split into 2 crews, one watching the crews in the fire building and one crew watching the crews in the exposure building. Crews stood by without incident and also assisted with some overhaul. Soon after returning from the fire in Emmaus station 1 was dispatched to Main St for an Unconscious Person. Crews administered first aid and assisted EMS with loading the patient. Later in the evening Tanker 121 was dispatched to Independent Rd in Upper Macungie for a Structure Fire. The crew hauled 3 loads of water before being released. Station 1 also had 2 engines manned back at station for an additional calls.
Photos Emmaus Fire Thanks to Dennis Wetherhold
Photos of Upper Macungie Thanks to Dennis Wetherhold
Photos of Upper Macungie Thanks to Fire and Film
The Members of the Alburtis Fire Dept. would like to wish everyone a Safe and Happy Holiday Season. Remember to keep your Christmas Tree watered and do not overload extension cords. If drinking use a designated driver, do not drink and drive.
Congratulations to the Officers for 2012
Chief: Donald Smith Jr.
1st Asst. Chief: Randy Trexler
2nd Asst. Chief: Ryan Trexler
Captain: Robert George
1st Lieutenant: Matt Trexler
2nd Lieutenant: Brandon Lindenmuth
Fire Police Captain: Bob Mader
Fire Police Lieutenant: Dave Knauss
The Alburtis Fire Dept. would like to congratulate FF Matthew Trexler and FF Ashley Aleszczyk on their recent engagement. We wish them all the best of luck.
12/4/2011 Santa Visit
Today Santa made a visit to the fire dept to meet with all the children who came out too see him. Santa was delivered to the fire station after being driving around town on a fire truck. We had a great turnout and look forward to seeing everyone again next year.
11/22/11 Dwelling Fire
Station 1 was dispatched along with Berks Station 21 and Tanker 39 to Kennedy Av in Longswamp Twsp for a dwelling fire. Chief 21 arrived on scene and declared a working fire. E111, E112, and TA121 arrived 1st on scene and knocked the fire down with a water can. Crews did some overhaul and were released. Station 1 units were returning from a class at Topton Fire Dept and were close by when the call was dispatched.
Rescue Sold, Rescue Engine Purchased
SOLD PURCHASED
Congratulation to the French River Canada Fire Dept on purchasing our 2006 Rescue Truck. This will be operating out of their station 2 and will be replacing their current rescue. They will be taking delivery of this unit within the next few weeks. The Alburtis Fire Dept will be purchasing a 1997 Simon Duplex LTI Rescue Engine from Limerick Fire Dept in Montgomery County. This unit will replace the 2006 rescue truck, which was sold, and our 1976 Mack CF which will be taken out of service and placed into antique status. This unit should be in service by late January or February.
Press Release for Consolidation
Specs of 1997 Simon Duplex Rescue Engine
Link for French River Fire Dept.
November 11th 2011 Dwelling Fire
At 0432hrs E112, TA121, E2511,TA2521 and TA5121 were dispatched with Topton Fire Dept to Folk Rd in Maxatawny Twsp Berks County for a 2nd alarm Dwelling Fire. Units arrived on scene and sent manpower to the scene. Due to a good knock down by 1st alarm units all 2nd alarm units were released soon after going on scene.
November 3rd 2011
10-29-2011 Winter Storm
An early season winter storm kept the members of the Alburtis Fire Dept Busy. The crew responded to a total of 15 incidents during the storm. The calls included several wires and trees down, 2 calls for dwelling fires, 1 AFA , 1 traffic control and a CO alarm. Crews has the station manned from about 1pm until well after midnight.
Fire Prevention Week October 9th-October 15th 2011
The Alburtis Fire Dept kicked off Fire Prevention Week with our annual open house (see the previous article for details). On Tuesday members visited the Little Lamb Learner Preschool. On Wednesday children from the Treehouse Childcare Center visited the fire station. On Thursday members visited the Alburtis Elementary School and on Friday members visited the Lehigh Valley Montessori School. The following Monday children from Little Lamb Learners Preschool visited the fire house. Children were taught fire safety including smoke detectors, crawling to get out of a smoky house, having a family meeting place, proper use of 911 and stop drop and roll.
Pictures from Fire Prevention.
Open House 10/8/2011
Today was our annual open house. There were numerous displays set up by the Alburtis Fire Dept, Alburtis Police Dept., Macungie EMS, Lehigh County 911 and Lehigh Valley Health Network. There were numerous events set up throughout the day for people to do including fire extinguisher training, kids were able to use a fire hose, tanker and porta take setup, Upper Macungie Bureau of Fire safety trailer, Apparatus displays, Medevac helicopter landing, vehicle rescue demo and live fire sprinkler demo. We had a great turnout and look forward to seeing everyone again next year.
Alburtis Fire Dept. Truck Crew Picnic 8/13/2011
Today members of the truck crew met at Asst. Chief Trexlers house for our yearly picnic. This is the departments way of thanking all our members for all they have done over the past year. Its a time for everyone to get together and have a good time. Members played volley ball and horse shoes and went swimming. A few of the games were delayed due to a few heavy rain showers that went through the area. Overall it was a good day and everyone had a good time. The officer would like to thank all our members for all they have done over the past year.
Structure Fire 8/3/2011
At 2037hrs Station 1 was dispatched along with Topton Fire to a Structure Fire on Dogwood Dr. E111,E112 and TA121 responded. Units arrived on scene and encountered a fully involved garage with an apt on top. Crews from the engines assisted with fire attack, overhaul and clean up. E112 assisted with drafting from a porta pond and fed E21. TA121 hauled several loads of water. Crews were hampered by a long narrow driveway, heavy rain and water problems due to the remote location. Crews operated on the scene for about 2 hours.
Click here for additional photos
MVA W/Rescue with Station 25 7/13/11
Rescue 141 was requested to assist Station 25 on an MVA with Rescue on Hamilton Blvd in Upper Macungie Twsp. Rescue 141 responded within minutes with a crew of 7. Unit arrived on scene and found a 2 vehicle MVA with a box truck on its side with one male still trapped. The crew immediately went to work attempting to gain access to the cargo compartment of a box truck to remove items that had shifted and were trapping the patient when the vehicle rolled over. The crew utilized a combi tool, champion cutter and a sawzall. While station 1 crew work at this task the 25 crew work to gain access to the patient through the roof. Pt extrication took aprox. 30 minutes due to heavy damage and a difficult extrication. After extrication was complete the crew assisted with clean up. Station 1 Fire Police were also on scene assisting with traffic control.
Happy 4th of July
RIT Goes to Emmaus 6/28/2011
At 2330hrs Station 1's Rapid Intervention Team was dispatched on the 2nd Alarm with Station 7 for a Working Commercial Structure Fire. Emmaus crews arrived on scene to find a 6 bay garage fully involved. Inside the garage was a fuel oil truck that was also fully involved and leaking the 1200 gallons of fuel oil inside it. E112 responded with a crew of 6 along with 3 additional personnel in POV. The Crew arrived on scene and set up their RIT staging area and survey of the building. Crews stood by without any incident. Once relieved of RIT duties crews assisted with overhaul and assisted the Lehigh Count HazMat Team.
Units operating at the scene included E711, E712, R741, SQ751, TA2821, TA2822, E2812, SP3091, FO3092, E112(RIT), HZ,4291, HZ4292, HZ4293, SQ4251, A6392.
You Tube Video from Nester Video Productions
Some pictures courtesy of Nester Video Productions.
MVA W/Rescue with Station 25 5/31/2011
Rescue 141 was dispatched along with Stations 25 and 66 to Rt100 and Spring Creek Rd in LMT for an MVA with Rescue. R141 responded with a crew of 7. Unit arrived on scene and found a 2 vehicle MVA. One vehicle was on its roof with 1 person still inside. R141 crew assisted in extrication of the patient including a front door removal. Crew also assisted with patient packaging and cleanup.
Additional pictures courtesy of T&C Photography
Fatal Train vs Vehicle MVA 5/23/2011
Structure Fire 5/21/2011
In the early morning hours Station 1 was dispatched for a Fire Stand By at Macungie Fire Dept. They were operating at a working Structure Fire at the Countryside Ice Cream Stand at Chestnut St and Kings Hwy in Upper Milford Twsp. Station 1 responded with E112 and TA121. Crews stood by for about an hour before being moved into the scene. At the scene crew assisted with overhaul. Crews worked for about an hour on the scene before being released.
Click here for pictures thanks to Mike Nester from Nester Video Productions
Click here for video footage from Nester Video Production
Garage Fire 5/13/2001
Station 1 RIT was dispatched with Berks Stations 39,58,14,20,21,22 and 505 for a garage fire on Long Ln in Hereford Twsp. E112 responded with a crew on 5. Unit arrived on scene in the area with the other units with nothing found. Berks county then advised the call would be on Long Ln in District Twsp, aprox. 2 miles from the original dispatch location. Unit were then redirected to the new location. TA58 and E112 arrived first on location and found a garage down to the ground. E112 crew was redirected from RIT and was advised to asst with attack and overhaul. Crews operated on the scene for a little over an hour.
Apartment Fire 5/10/2011
Station 1 RIT was dispatched along with Berks Stations 39,58,14 and 21 for an Apartment Building Fire. Asst 39 arrived and scene and reported smoke coming from a 2nd floor window. E39 crew had a good knock down and contained the fire to room and contents. E112 and TA121 responded and assisted crews with overhaul. Thanks to Bally Fire Dept for the photo.
Apartment Fire 5/1/2011
Barn Fire 3/30/2011
Units on scene E3011, E3012, TK3031, U3093, E1512, TA1521, BR1561, TA121, BR161, TA2822, BR2861, TA1921, BR1961, BR1962, BR2561, A6682, A6683, RH6651, ATV6653, 6671.
Basket Bingo
3/10 - 3/11 2011 Heavy Rain in the area
Approximately 3 inches of rain fell on Alburtis over the past 2 day. This rain was on top of another 2 inches of rain that has fallen 2 days before. Many roads in the area were flooded, luckily people did not drive through them and we had no water rescues. Station 1 did respond to 2 weather related calls including clearing a blocked storm drain that was threatening to flood a residence and a pump detail for 8 inches of water in a basement. Station 1 also responded to a cardiac arrest during the storm.
3/5/2011 Busy evening for Station 1
Just after 10pm Station 1 was dispatched for a fire standy by at Seisholtzville Fire Dept while they operated at the scene of a working barn fire in their first due area. Prior to responding to the standby Station 1 was requested to the scene of the Barn Fire which was located on Treichlers Rd in District Twsp Berks County. Station 1 sent a crew on Tanker 121 which operated at the scene until about 0300hrs. Station 1 still had one crew standing by at station. While standing by at station the crew was dispatched to an MVA W/ Rescue on N Main St in Alburtis. Rescue 2541 was special dispatched to the scene due to station 1 personnel being at the Barn Fire. Additional was 1 vehicle up a guide wire on a telephone pole. Crews from R141 and R2541 stabilized the vehicle with rescue struts and assisted the operator, who was uninjured, from the vehicle.
Click here for pics thanks to JC Kreisher
Click here for Video thanks to JC Kreisher
Pet Oxygen Mask Training
This weeks training was conducted by staff of the Cold Nose Lodge. Training included members of Alburtis and Topton Fire Depts. Staff taught the crews some basic first aid techniques and proper oxygen administration. Both Department recently received pet oxygen masks to be carried on the fire apparatus. Training included the use of live dogs provided by Cold Nose Lodge. The crew then took a tour of the lodge after training was complete. The Alburtis Fire Dept would once again like to thank the Cold Nose Lodge for the donation of the 2 pet oxygen masks the Alburtis Fire Dept now carries on our Engine and Rescue Trucks.
Snowy Roads Cause MVA
At 0845hrs 1-26-2011 Station 66 and 1 were dispatched to Mertztown Rd and Hilltop Rd in LMT for an MVA W/Injuries. R141 responded with a crew of 6 and was given the additional of a Mini van vs a tree and a male with a knee injury. 103 arrived on scene and established command. R141 arrived on scene and assisted with patient care and controlling hazards on the vehicle. Crew stood by until towing removed the vehicle.
Busy Morning for Station 1 1-24-2011
At 0252hrs Station 63 in place of Station 66 and Station 1 were dispatched to Front St in Alburtis for an Unconscious Person after a Seizure. Then at 0458 Station 1 and 66 were dispatched to Lockridge Ln for a CO Alarm W/ Victim. Units arrived on scene and found it to be a faulty detector. Then at 1138hrs Station 66 and 1 were dispatched to Industrial Parkway in LMT for an MVA W/ Injuries. Crews arrived on scene to find 2 tractor trailers involved with 1 injured person and a spill. Crews assisted with Pt packaging and spill control.
E Penn Av RR Crossing MVA W/ Rescue 1-19-2011
Spring Creek Rd MVA W/Injuries 1-9-2011
Station 63 and 1 were dispatched to Spring Creek Rd in LMT for a Bravo response MVA W/Injuries. Station 66 cleared from another incident and recalled station 63. 103 arrived on scene and found a 1 vehicle roll over with everyone out of the vehicle. 102 requested PENNDOT be notified due to blowing snow drifting the roadway shut. Rescue 141 responded and controlled hazards. EMS tended to the patient. Crews stood by until towing removed the vehicle.
Station 1 would like to wish everyone a Safe and Happy New Year.
This year we responded to 125 calls, down from 141 last year. We responded to 12 working fires, we had 4 RIT responses, responded to 7 rescues and 42 QRS responses, including EMS assists and Motor Vehicle Accidents. This past year we became Certified as a department to 75% by the Office of the State Fire Commissioner. Members put in many hours of training in HazMat, Fire Fighter 1 and Fire Instructor to complete this certification.
For 2011 we look forward to continuing with our vigorous in house training schedule as well as working closely with out mutual aid depts. both on the fire scene and in training. We hope to achieve the Operational Level Certification as a Rescue Dept. by the end of the year. Keep checking both our Facebook page and our Web Site for regular updates on our upcoming yearly events.
Another Fire in the Swamp 12/26/2010
Station 1 once again responded to assist Topton Fire Dept. in the swamp. Units were dispatched to Hennsingersville Rd just over the county line for a Dwelling Fire. Station 1 responded with E111, E112 and TA121. Units arrived on scene and assisted with overhaul. First in units from Topton made a great knock down and contained the fire to a small area in the garage and living room. Crews from 1 operated for about 2hrs on the scene. Seisholtzville, Hereford and Bally Fire Dept and Topton and Macungie EMS also assisted at the scene.
Alburtis goes to the Swamp 12/23/2010
Station 1 was called to assist Topton Fire on an Apt Building Fire. Station 1 responded with E112, E111, SQ151 and TA121. The Crew from E112 assisted Topton Crews in searching for the fire. There was a slight smoke condition in the house with no visible fire. After searching crews found a small smoldering fire in a crawl space under the house. The fire was extinguished with a water can and units cleared. TA121 Stood by until released and E111 stood by in the area to cover other calls. SQ151 assisted with closing the busy State St. Seisholtzville and Bally Fire and Topton EMS also assisted at the scene.
A Few more pics from the fire.
Congratulations to the Officers for 2011
Officer for 2011 took office tonight and are as follows:
Chief 101-Donald Smith Jr.
Asst. Chief 102-Randy Trexler
Asst. Chief 103-Ryan Trexler
Captain 105-Robert George
Lieutenant 106-Gary Arndt
Lieutenant 107-Christopher Lubenetski
Fire Police Captain 109-Steven Wetzel
Fire Police Lieutenant 110-Dave Knauss
December 16th 2010 MVA W/Rescue with Station 25
December 5th 2010 Santa Visits the Fire House
Today Santa was in Alburtis. He was seen driving around town on an Alburtis Fire Truck. Later in the day Santa was at the fire house visiting with all the children. After tell Santa what they wanted the children got a gift from Santa. We had a great turnout as usual and look forward to seeing everyone again next year.
December 3rd 2010 Alburtis School
Today members of the Alburtis Fire Dept escorted a student from Alburtis Elementary school from his house to school in Engine 112. The Student and four of his friends were also given a pizza party at the fire house. After lunch the kids got to see the rest of the equipment and squirt the fire house. At the end of the day the student was taken back home on Engine 112. The student was the winner of a book reading contest at his school in which he read the most minutes in the school. The student had a good time and we look forward to trying this event again next year.
Pictures From Alburtis School Event
November 27th 2010 Rescue in Longswamp
Station 1 was called to assist Topton Fire Dept on a High angle terrain rescue. R141 and E112 responded with a total of 12 personnel. Units were advised there were 4 people in an approximately 70ft deep mine shaft, one person fell approximately 20ft into the shaft. Units arrived on scene and were advised to gather all rope rescue equipment and prepare for an approximately ¾ mile hike into the woods. Once at the rescue site the crew assisted with setting up haul systems and rappelling lines. 2 people were lowered into the shaft to begin pt care. Lehigh County Tech Rescue was called and arrived on scene. They sent additional personnel into the shaft. The pts were packaged into a stokes basket and raised 1 at the time until all 4 pts were extricated. 3 pts were transported to a local hospital for hypothermia and 1 pt was transported for injuries from the fall. Units operated on scene for approximately 7 hours in freezing temperatures. There was great team work by all departments involved.
Departments Operating at the scene. Topton, Seisholtzville, Alburtis and Kutztown Fire Depts. Topton and Macungie EMS. Macungie EMS Special Operations Team. Lehigh Valley MedEvac. Lehigh County Special Operations Team. Pennsylvania State Police and Red Cross.
November 25th 2010: Thanksgiving morning oven fire.
October 10th 2010: RIT sent to Weisenberg on the 2nd Alarm
Station 1's Rapid Intervention Team was dispatched to assist Weisenberg Fire Dept on a working Dwelling fire on Hailey CT. Units were initially dispatched to a vehicle fire inside an attached garage. 5101 arrived on scene and found a working vehicle fire inside the attached garage and requested the 2nd alarm. E112 responded as RIT with a crew of 6. Unit arrived on scene and was released shortly after due to a quick knock down by the first arriving units.
Units operating at the scene-TK5131, U5191, E811, E2611, R2541, A6285...2nd Alarm AT1771, TA1721, TA1021, TA2221, TK831, E112 RIT, R21, FP852, RH6273
October 6th 2010: Rollover in the Borough
Station 1 was dispatched to the W Penn Av RR Xing for a motor vehicle accident with a vehicle on the train tracks. 101 and Rescue 141 arrived on scene and found one vehicle with moderate damage on the tracks. Norfolk Southern was notified to stop all train traffic. The driver of the vehicle was evaluated by R141 crew. Station 66 was requested for additional evaluation and a PT refusal. The crew stood by until towing removed the vehicle.
October 4th 2010: Rollover on Church St.
Station 66, Engine 3012, Rescue 141 and Rescue 3041 were dispatched to Church St and Alburtis Rd in LMT for an MVA W/ Rescue. Rescue 141 arrived on scene and located the MVA on Church St in Alburtis Borough with one vehicle on its side into the woods. As 141 pulled up the driver of the vehicle was extricated by PD and bystanders. Station 30 units were recalled due to negative entrapment. R141 stood by while towing removed the vehicle.
October 2nd 2010: Annual Open House
Station 1 held its annual Open House at the Fire Station. This years event was a great success and we had a great turnout. There were lots of things to see and do. There was a Medevac Helicopter landing, a vehicle rescue demo, a live fire demo, and a police K9 demo. Fire extinguisher training was available. Upper Macungie provided a Fire Safety trailer. Macungie Ambulance and Lehigh County 911 were present. Smokey the bear made an appearance. We look forward to seeing everyone again next year.
Click on the picture above for more photos of this years open house.
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