On Sunday, Nov. 2, Chews Landing Fire Department had the distinction of being the host location for a hands-on vehicle extrication training event to area firefighters from Chews Landing, Glendora Fire Company, Gloucester Township Fire District 6, Voorhees Fire Department, and East Greenwich Township Fire & Rescue. This free training was made possible thanks to host partner Lightning Auto Service LLC in conjunction with the National Auto Body Council (NABC) as part of their F.R.E.E. (First Responder Emergency Extrication) Program.
According to Lightning CEO & co-founder and Chews Landing volunteer firefighter John Voulgarakis, “Today’s vehicles are engineered for safety, but that also means they’re more complex to cut and access during emergencies. This kind of training helps bridge the gap between the collision repair industry and emergency services to save lives safely and effectively.” This was made possible by donations of late-model vehicles by program partners Copart and Farmers Insurance. Partners HURST Jaws of Life and MESFire provided some of their latest extrication tools and techniques because, as Lightning co-founder and COO Christopher Fox put it, “Modern-day vehicles require modern-day solutions.” At the conclusion of the event, everyone was treated to a fantastic meal provided by our longtime partner and supporter MISSION BBQ.
We would like to thank everyone that came out and made this entire day such a great success.
Just after 2am, Tower Ladder 82, Chief 82, and Squad 88 responded to Autum Ridge Apartments in 84's local (Blackwood) for a reported Apartment fire. Camden County Dispatch was receiving multiple calls reporting active fire with some residents unable to evacuate. SD88 arrived 1st Due and confirmed an active fire on the 3rd floor and initiated interior attack operations. CH82 assumed Incident Command and struck the All Hands, followed very shortly after by the 2nd Alarm as initial units were still arriving.
SD86, TL82, and TL6 all arrived in quick succession. Their crews immediately went to work conducting search and rescue operations, while their operators worked to establish a water supply and ladder the building. Several residents were rescued in the process, and transported to area hospitals. Due to deteriorating conditions, once it was determined that all residents were evacuated, crews were pulled out and Defensive Operations with aerial devices began.
The fire was placed under control after 4 hours, and ultimately went to 3 Alarms. Crews remained on scene until approximately noon conducting overhaul and assisting in the investigation. One firefighter was treated and released for minor injuries, and the fire is under investigation by local county, and state Fire Marshals. Approximately 100 residents were displaced, and are being assisted by the Red Cross. A number of pets were also rescued, and residents that have not yet been reunited with them are urged to contact Homeward Bound.
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Chews Landing Fire Department has been out this weekend supporting a number of community events. We started off on Friday night with Chief 82 and Engine 82 leading the annual Broadmoor Halloween Parade. Immediately following that they headed over to Veterans Park and joined Utility 82 for the GT Trunk or Treat.
On Saturday we were at The Colony at Chews Landing 55+ complex. Chief Haines, in conjunction with the Mayor's office, Gloucester Township Police, Gloucester Township OEM, Inspira EMS, and the Camden County Fire Coordinators, provided an information session to residents on what they can expect in the event of an emergency. An overview was given on the complex's various safety systems and programs, what residents can expect from the various emergency agencies, tips on what and what not to do should an emergency situation arise, ways the residents can help responders in better assisting them, and answers to any questions they residents had. The session was ended by providing residents the opportunity to do an evacuation walk through with our firefighters and to see first hand how some of the safety systems work to keep them safe.
On Saturday, October 11th Lt. Kevin Pozniewski and Firefighter John Donahue were honored by Mayor and Council by having their names added to our plaque at Gloucester Township Citizens Appreciation Park. This event is held each year to recognize those that selflessly volunteer their time, skills, and talents to all of the various groups and organizations in our community. In addition to the countless hours devoted to responding to calls, staffing Duty Crews, training, and attending community events, this year's honorees also serve as Company Executive Officers, with Lt. Pozniewski serving as a Trustee and FF. Donahue as Treasure.
Following the ceremony, they once again displayed that dedication as they flew the colors for a fundraiser put on by the Centurions Motorcycle Club to benefit Camden County Hero Scholarship Fund.