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ORWIGSBURG FIRE DEPARTMENT 121 N. LIBERTY STREET ORWIGSBURG, PA 17961

In Memory of FF J. Zitkus

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2005
Monthly Calls
Jan.
11
Feb.
14
March
18
April
15
May
14
June
17
July
4
August
0
Sep.
0
Oct.
0
Nov.
0
Dec.
0
Total
94

2004
Monthly Calls
Jan.
9
Feb.
15
March
11
April
16
May
19
June
11
July
17
August
34
Sep.
20
Oct.
10
Nov.
21
Dec.
12
Total
196

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STRUCTURE FIRE WITH A RESCUE IN AUBURN

Friday, April 8, 2005 - At 3:30 p.m. OFD was dispatched on a 2nd alarm assignment for a Structure Fire on Forest St. in Auburn. First arriving Auburn and Deer Lake units had encountered a heavily involved 1 1/2 story dwelling with fire spreading to the neighboring home. An aggressive fire attack quickly gained control of the fire and a search team, led by Auburn Assistant Fire Chief Dennis Beck located an unconscious civilian inside the dwelling. The victim was removed from the building and transferred to Auburn EMS for transport to a local hospital and subsequently to Lehigh Valley Hospital Center. A special "job well done" to the Auburn and Deer Lake Fire Companies for performing a successful rescue under difficult conditions. In addition to the OFD, Mutual Aid Companies from Deer Lake, Summit Station and Sch. Haven assisted at the scene.


MVA: SCHOOL BUS VS SUV

Tuesday, April 5, 2005 - At 3:10 p.m. OFD was dispatched to a vehicle accident at the Intersection of Rt. 443 and N. Greenview Drive near Blue Mountain High School. While enroute to the scene, County Communications informed responding OFD units that this accident involved an SUV and a School Bus. Chief 56 requested Company 47 (Landingville) to respond to the scene and Schuylkill Haven Rainbow Rescue 727 to standby in their quarters. Arriving on scene it was determined that there were no serious injuries and Command released Rescue 727 from standby. OFD and Landingville units secured the scene and provided traffic control at this busy intersection until PSP cleared the accident.


PACK 624 DEN 10 AND 12 VISIT OFD

Saturday, April 02, 2005 - On Saturday morning, several boys and parents from Pack 624 Bear Den 10 and 12 came to station to learn about the fire department. Frank McDonough started by introducing himself and discussed fire prevention with them. Afterwards, they were given a tour of Engine 5610 and Rescue 56. Frank, with the assistance of Tony Baver, explained the tools and functions of the firefighters on calls. At the conclusion of the visit, they were given a ride around town on Engine 5610. OFD would like to thank Brent, Mark, Micah, Nathan and Brandon for visiting and welcome them back at any time.


HAZARDOUS MATERIALS OPERATIONS TRAINING

Saturday, April 2, 2005 - Saturday afternoon members of the OFD were at station for training. The training highlighted the review of tools that are not to often utilized. A simulated collapse was laid out at the station and the members had to raise the debris pile up one foot. This had to be done without spilling any water from a cup (which was only 1/4" from the brim) and without shifting the pile. The group was only able to utilize limited cribbing, bottle jacks, high-lift jacks, bumper jacks, and porta-powers to raise the pile. Two evolutions were conducted and both were successfully completed without any shifting of the pile or spilling of the water.


RT. 61 MVA WITH ROLLOVER

Friday, April 1, 2005 - At 1:30 a.m. OFD Rescue 56 was dispatched to a vehicle accident on the northbound side of Rt. 61 on the Wedgewood Hill. Arriving on scene Chief 5601 Zimmerman discovered a one vehicle accident with rollover. The driver had exited the vehicle on his own and was being attended to by Orwigsburg EMS. OFD provided traffic control until PSP cleared the scene.


MVA - WITH FIRE

Thursday, March 24, 2005 - At 14:45hrs. Company 56 was dispatched with Company 47 (Landingville) for a reported MVA with entrapment and on fire. The incident was located in the area of Adamsdale Rd. and Briar Rd. Within minutes, Engine 56-10 and Rescue 56 were responding. Asst. Chief 47-01 (G. Thomas) arrived on scene and reported that the occupant of the vehicle had been removed, however, the vehicle was still on fire. Engine 56-10 arrived on the scene and went into service. The crew from the Rescue as well as Company 47 personnel stretched one 1 3/4" handline and extinguished the fire. The occupant of the vehicle had been transported by air, to a nearby trauma facility. Units from Company 47 and 56 established the landing zone. Units remained on the scene for nearly an hour. PSP handled the incident.


TRAINING - REVIEW OF EQUIPMENT

Saturday, March 19, 2005 - On Saturday afternoon twelve members of the department gathered at Industrial Dr. to take part in the bi-weekly training session. The group spent the afternoon familiarizing themselves with the new Akron Saberjet nozzles that were recently arrived. The gang also reviewed the operations of the air tools (air bags, air chisels, etc.) which are carried on the Rescue.


OFD ESCORTS THE EASTER BUNNY

Saturday, March 19, 2005 - Shortly before drill started, the OFD escorted the Easter Bunny to Albright's Woods for the annual Easter Egg Hunt. The annual event is held by the Orwigsburg Lions Club and as always, was a tremendous success.


DOOR POP - S. LIBERTY & RIDGE RD

Friday, March 18, 2005 - At approximately 16:15hrs the OFD was dispatched to the intersection of S. Liberty St. and Ridge Rd. for an MVA with entrapment. Shortly after dispatch crews arrived on the scene to find a two car accident (car vs. dump truck), with one subject pinned in the vehicle. Units quickly stabilized the vehicle and began extrication. The Rescue crew "popped" the door and the subject was removed within minutes. Company 47 (Landingville) was also dispatched on the incident. Company 47 units controlled hazards on the scene and also established the landing zone for Medevac.


56 RUNS TO BERKS COUNTY

Sunday, March 13, 2005 - On Sunday afternoon, Company 56 was dispatched to assist Hamburg Fire Dept. at the scene of a factory fire within Hamburg borough. OFD was requested for RIT. Once the crew of Engine 56-10 arrived on the scene, the team familiarized themselves with equipment at the staging area and received a fire operations briefing. Shortly after units received the status report, their assignment was changed to relieve the crews that were operating on the roof. The gang headed to the roof, where they remained throughout the incident. OFD units assisted on the scene for nearly four hours. This incident brought many companies throughout Berks and Schuylkill counties.


VEHICLE FIRE

Saturday, March 5, 2005 - At 7:00 pm OFD was dispatched to an unknown fire in the vicinity of Heritage Ford on Rt. 61. Chief 4210 had been passing by the area and stopped to investigate. He reported a working car fire near the Auto Body Shop. Chief 56 requested a tanker from Company 47 while enroute to the dealership. The fire was quickly extinguished by the crew of Engine 5610.


IN STATION TRAINING - REVIEW OF LADDER 725

Saturday, March 5, 2005 - On Saturday afternoon, members of the department gathered at the fire station along with members of Rainbow Hose Co. (Schuylkill Haven) for an instructional training session. The intent of the session was to familiarize OFD members with the tools and equipment that are carried on Ladder 725, as well as general operating instructions of the aerial. Members of the OFD were able to operate the tools (saws, fans, etc.), as well as position and climb the aerial. The members of the OFD would like to extend a token of appreciation to the members of Rainbow Hose Company for taking the time to bring Ladder 725 down to Station 56 for the demonstration.


MORE CON-ED AT POTTSVILLE EMS

Wednesday, March 2, 2005 - Once again members of the OFD traveled to Pottsville EMS for continuing education credits. This time the course being offered was Traumatic Brain Injuries. The session was presented by Bruce Lutz, NREMT-P. The program lasted four hours and was attended my many EMS proffessionals throughout the area. As always, members of the OFD would like to extend a token of appreciation to Keith Tokonitz of Pottsville EMS for setting up the recent classes.


VEHICLE ACCIDENT DURING HEAVY SNOW

Thursday, February 24, 2005 - At 3:16 pm, OFD was dispatched to a vehicle accident on East Second Mountain Road by Ranch Road. Engine 5610 responded to the accident which was reported as one vehicle with no injuries or fluids down. LT Thomas Bonner assumed command when they arrived on scene and the OFD firefighters provided traffic control for two hours until the accident was cleared.


IN STATION - TRAINING

Saturday, February 19, 2005 - Saturday afternoon, fourteen members of the OFD gathered at the firehouse for some in-station training. The gang reviewed operating procedures in regards to propane emergencies. The training was broken down into some lecture and then was followed by an instructional video. This drill was conducted by A/C Rarick. The next drill is scheduled for March 5th at 1PM.


HAZ MAT OPERATIONS CLASS

Wednesday, February 16, 2005 - On Wednesday evening three members of the department completed the Hazardous Materials Operations Level class. The class was held at the Schuylkill County 911 Center and was instructed by Art Kaplan and John Matz. This class was the last of six classes that totaled 24 hours. Also attending the class were firefighters from; Frackville, Pottsville, and Minersville. Once again, this class is a prerequisite for the State Firefighter II Certification Program.


SUPER BOWL SUNDAY

Sunday, February 6, 2005 - On Sunday afternoon members started to gather at the station to prepare for the much anticipated Super Bowl. Members decorated the station, prepared food, and staffed the station during the festivities. In previous years, the Super Bowl was interupted to answer alarms, but this year we were fortunately quiet. Thirteen active members attended the gathering, however the outcome was a little dissapointing.


ENGINE COMPANY BASICS

Saturday, February 5, 2005 - Saturday afternoon A/C Rarick conducted an Engine Company training session. The nice weather enabled the group to go outside and practice on the basics. The afternoon was spent; pulling handlines, wrapping hydrants, packing hoseloads. Also, FF Tony Baver was able to accumulate some pump time, as he has started the Engineer Training Program. Twelve members of the department turned out for the drill.


MVA - RT 443 & MARKET RD

Saturday, February 5, 2005 - Approximately 10:00hrs, Company 56 was alerted to the intersection of Rt 443 and Market Rd for an MVA with no injuries. From information provided during dispatch, OFD units followed SOP's (Non-Emergency Response) and arrived to find a two car MVA with no injuries. Company 56 units, under the command of A/C Rarick (56-02) were assigned to control vehicle hazards, provide traffic control, and apply absorbant material for the fluids released. Units cleared the scene within the hour. PSP handled the incident.


CON-ED TRAINING - STATE DNR TRAINING

Wednesday, February 2, 2005 - This evening, members of the department traveled to the Pottsville Area EMS building to attain continuing education credits. The members attended the training to keep up with their PA Dept. of Health EMT certifications. The course that was being offered was State DNR Training. The class was instructed by Georgia Kurtz, Dave Fritzinger, and Frank Troxel of the Eastern PA EMS Council. Again, special thanks to Pottsville EMS for holding these continuing education courses.


HAZARDOUS MATERIALS OPERATIONS TRAINING

Monday, January 31, 2005 - On Monday night, OFD members attended the first of six evening classes to attain the Haz-Mat Operations level training. This class is being held at the Schuylkill County 911 Communications Center and is instructed by Art Kaplan and John Matz, both of the Schuylkill County Emergency Management Agency. This course is also a pre-requisite for the PA State Firefighter II Certification process, which many of the OFD members are striving to achieve.


STRUCTURE FIRE - WEST MARKET ST - ORWIGSBURG

Tuesday, January 25, 2005 - OFD, Landingville and Deer Lake Fire Departments were dispatched at 9:55 a.m. to an automatic fire alarm at Max's Classics LLC at 804 W. Market St., Orwigsburg. Assistant Fire Chief Tom Rarick (56-02) arrived on scene and confirmed a working structure fire. A/C Rarick requested a second alarm, which brought Sch. Haven Fire Department's Liberty Hose Co. and Rainbow Hose Co. Ladder 725. OFD Engine 56-10 raised a ground ladder to the rear of the building and attacked the fire via a rear window. The fire was quickly knocked down and an extensive overhaul operation was conducted. The structure, which houses vintage automobiles, received heavy damage in the kitchen area with smoke and heat damage to the nearby display floor. Several of the classic autos were damaged.


MULTIPLE VEHICLE MVA - RT. 61 & RIDGE RD.

Friday, January 21, 2005 - Around 20:00hrs. the department was dispatched to the intersection of Rt. 61 and Ridge Rd. for a reported MVA with unknown injuries. Shortly after dispatch, Rescue 56, Engine 56-10, and Engine 56-11 were responding and received additional information of multiple vehicles involved, multiple injuries, and one subject still trapped in the vehicle. Crews arrived on the scene under the direction of Asst. Fire Chief Jesse Zimmerman (56-01) and confirmed negative entrapment. However, the Rescue crew assisted EMS with the packaging of two patients. The crew from Engine 56-10 stabilized vehicles, secured batteries, and established scene lighting. Engine 56-11 along with OFD Fire Police provided traffic control. PSP handled the incident.


MVA - RT. 61 & RARING DR.

Sunday, January 16, 2005 - The second call of Sunday morning alerted Company 56 members for an MVA with unknown injuries. The incident was located in the area of Rt. 61 and Raring Dr. Within minutes, Rescue 56 and Engine 56-10 were responding. While enroute, units were advised by Orwigsburg EMS of multiple vehicles involved. The Rescue and the Engine crews arrived on scene and started carrying out their assignments. The Rescue stabilized the vehice, secured the batteries, and assisted EMS with patient care. The Engine crew deployed an 1 3/4" line and assisted the Rescue crew. Units operated under the command of Chief 56 (D. Hardinger). PSP handled the incident.


STRUCTURE FIRE - PINEBROOK TOWNHOUSES

Friday, January 14, 2005 - At 4:06 a.m. Orwigsburg Fire Department, Community Fire Company Landingville and Deer Lake West Brunswick Fire Company were dispatched to a reported structure fire on Village Road near Pinebrook Nursing Home. A fire which started near the entrance to 1201 Village Road had spread up the exterior wall of the residence, burned through the second floor balconey ceiling and entered the common attic of 2101 and 2103 Village Road. The main body of fire had been extinguished by the resident of 2101 Village Road. Firefighters opened the ceiling above the balconey and extinguished a smoldering fire in the attic. Both attics were vented and thermal imaging cameras were used to check for extension of the fire.


2005 IN STATION TRAINING STARTS - SCBA REVIEW

Saturday, January 08, 2005 - Saturday afternoon, twelve members of the department stopped working on the lockers long enough to take part in a three-hour training session, which was held in station.  The training was conducted by Engine Capt. Scott Rarick.  The topic of the drill was SCBA review.  The drill was broken down into several key areas.  First, the SCBA components were reviewed with all members, which also included an inspection.  Next, the members completed a written test.  Finally, the members completed a practical skill station course.  The course included crawling, carrying hoseloads, chopping with an axe, and climbing ladders.  Each member kept repeating the course until their quarter-service alarms activated.


LOCKER PROJECT - NEARING COMPLETION

Saturday, January 08, 2005 - Early Saturday morning, members of the department arrived at station to make a significant dent in the locker renovation project. The hooks were hung on the wall, benches fastened, boot rests installed, and spare gear shelving secured to the wall. Some staining of the woodwork and the location of a previous window must be blocked up, and then the inside of the project is finished. Once again, great job by the members for performing the work themselves.


MEMBERS ATTAIN CON-ED

Wednesday, January 05, 2004 - On Wednesday evening several members of the OFD traveled to the Pottsville EMS Building for a continuing education course.  The members attended the training to keep up with their PA Dept. of Health EMT certifications.  The course being offered was Penetrating Wounds and Blast Injuries, which highligted injuries associated with firearms and explosives.  The class was instructed by Patrolman Joe Murton Jr., EMT-Medical Officer of the Pottsville Police Dept.  This course was the first of several upcoming continuing education programs being offered by Pottsville EMS.


 "OFFICIAL" NOTIFICATION RECEIVED
FROM STATE FIRE ACADEMY
Thursday, December 30, 2004 - On Thursday, the eight members of the department that recently completed the FireFighter 1 Program received their certificates from the State Fire Academy.  The members of the OFD would like to thank James Misstishin, Pottsville and Pete Damiter, Frackville for the coordination of the testing process at the Schuylkill County Fire School.  

OFD CHRISTMAS PARTY

Saturday, December 18, 2004 - On Saturday evening the members of the department gathered for the annual Christmas Party. The festivities included a dinner, awards presentations, and a powerpoint year-in-review show. The department, as a token of appreciation, presented several length of service awards to some of the active membership. Length of service awards were distributed for five, ten, fifteen, twenty, twenty-five, and fifty-six years of service. Following the service awards, Chief Hardinger prepared and reviewed his annual powerpoint presentation. This presentation allows the department to reflect back on the hardwork, preparation, and dedication that the members have put forth over the course of the year. Also, each member of the department will be receiving a CPR shield that will be carried on the suspenders of the turnout gear. Near the end of the evening, FF Jamie Seigenfuse made a very special presentation. FF Seigenfuse personally donated a surround sound stereo system to be used in the dayroom of the station. Special thanks to Jamie for the kind gift, and thank you to all of the Christmas Party committee for preparing a wonderful evening.


MVA - RT 443 & MARKET RD
Saturday, December 18, 2004 - On Saturday morning at approximately 10:30AM, Company 56 was dispatched to the intersection of Rt. 443 & Market St. for a reported MVA. Within minutes, Chief 56 (Hardinger), Chief 56-02 (L.T. Rarick), Rescue 56, and Engine 56-10 were responding. Chief 56 arrived on the scene to confirm a two car MVA with no injuries or entrapment. Company 56 units stabilized the vehicles, secured batteries, and provided traffic control. Units cleared after an hour.

ACCIDENT WITH ENTRAPMENT

Monday, December 13, 2004 - At 10:50 Company's 56 and 47 (Landingville) were dispatched to the intersection of Rt. 61 and Greenview Dr. for a reported MVA with entrapment. Asst. Chief 56-02 (L.T. Rarick) arrived on the scene to find a two vehicle (car vs. tractor trailer) MVA and with entrapment. Upon arrival the crew from Rescue 56 stabilized the vehicle and proceeded with a driver's side door removal. After the door was removed, the Rescue crew assisted Orwigsburg EMS and Schuylkill Haven ALS with the removal of the victim. Schuylkill Haven Fire Department Stations 1 (Rainbow) and 4 (Liberty) established the landing zone for Medevac, which was set up at the Blue Mountain High School. [Photos courtesy of Dan Heffner]


TRANSFER TO HAVEN
Sunday, December 5, 2004 - On Sunday morning at 07:50hrs the OFD was dispatched to Haven on a transfer. The OFD was requested for one engine to hold in Station 1 (Rainbow), while the Haven Fire Department was operating on a natural gas leak / investigation. Engine 56-10 handled the call along with Chief 56. OFD units were on the relocate assignment for approximately 40 minutes.

"UNOFFICIALLY" - EIGHT FOR EIGHT

Saturday, December 4, 2004 - Late Saturday afternoon the eight members of the OFD completed the practical portion of the State Firefighter 1 Certification and received "unofficial" notification that all eight members had successfully passed both the written and practical portions. The gang traveled to the Schuylkill County Fire School both Friday evening (for the written test) and then again, bright and early on Saturday (for the practical sessions). There was a tremendous amount of practicing and studying that took place over the last couple of months and it finally paid off. Congratulations to the following members of the department for the completion of the program; FF Jake Brensinger, FF Dale Dunkel, Engineer David Witman, Engineer Frank McDonough, Engineer Scott Matukewicz, Lt. Thomas Bonner, Lt. Jeffrey Hartman and Capt. Scott Rarick. According to the Site Coordinators, the "official" results will be known by January 2005. The class also included members of the Port Carbon Fire Dept. as well as several fire companies from the Harrisburg Area. Specail thanks to Jonathan Morgalis of Pottsville Fire Dept. (Station 30) for taking the photographs while we were testing.


STRUCTURE FIRE - AUBURN

Thursday, November 29, 2004 -At 10:20 p.m. OFD was dispatched as part of the Second Alarm assignment for a fire at Craftex Mills, Inc. in Auburn.  A fire believed to have been sparked by an electrical short ignited insulation and lint at the ceiling level of the factory.  OFD laddered Side 4 to assist with roof operations and also provided a team to enter the building to assist with extinguishing the fire. Chief 42 John Matz had the Command.  Also assisting at the scene were Companies from Sch. Haven, New Ringgold, Landingville and Summit Station.


WATER RESCUE CALL - PORT CLINTON

Thursday, November 28, 2004 -At 12:37 p.m. OFD was dispatched for Rescue 56 to assist Company 42 Deer Lake with a water rescue.  The Schuylkill Haven Fire Dept. Dive Team was also dispatched.  Arriving on scene Chief 42-02 advised that a pickup truck had lost control on Rt. 61, gone over a guardrail and was in the Schuylkill River.  The river was unusually high due to the previous night's heavy rainfall.  The truck was being carried by the current toward Port Clinton. Witnesses provided conflicting reports of one or possibly two victims in the water.  Chief 56 requested Port Clinton Fire Company be dispatched to the Schuylkill River bridge near their Station.  County Communications reported that Berks County Dispatch had already alerted Port Clinton and had also dispatched Hamburg Fire Department for their water rescue team. The pickup came to rest against the center support of the Broad St. Bridge in Port Clinton.  OFD, Deer Lake, Port Clinton and Hamburg units converged on this location and a command post was established.  Hamburg Assistant Chief Hartman was designated Incident Command.  Search teams were sent on foot to scour the river banks upstream and downstream from the Broad St. Bridge.  Sch. Haven Dive Team was sent to the Kernsville Dam and launched their boats to search the river.  Pennsylvania State Police Helicopter Trooper 1 and a Medevac helicopter also responded and made numerous passes over the river in an effort to locate the victims.  

A heavy wrecker from Kramer's Towing Service was requested to the bridge. Troy Hatt, Hamburg FD Chief, was lowered to the pickup truck and attached cables from the wrecker to vehicle.  The truck was then raised to the bridge and found to be empty.  Unfortunately, none of our search efforts were successful and the incident was turned over to Pennsylvania State Police.

FIREFIGHTER 1 - SOME FINAL PREPARATION

Thursday, November 27, 2004 - On Saturday afternoon several of the members that will be taking their State Firefighter 1 Certification met at the firehouse for some final preparation. The group reviewed SCBA donning, ladders, ropes / knots, forcible entry and water supply operations. The gang will be traveling to the Frackville Fire School this upcoming weekend to take the written and practical tests.  Good luck guys.


BUILDING PROJECTS - CONTINUE ON
Saturday, November 20, 2004 - As mentioned before, the members of the department take great pride in renovating the fire station. Work continues to progress in the efforts to construct new lockers. The old lockers had to be removed, so the buildings concrete block could be sealed up. The building was leaking in several spots and caused the existing lockers to weaken. Currently the outside of the building is now sealed along with the inside. The inside walls will now receive a new coat of paint, followed by the installation of the new lockers and that should complete the project. Again thanks to the members for making the "much needed" upgrades and saving the department labor costs.

TIRE FIRE - ACHEY'S

Thursday, November 18, 2004 - Around noon the OFD was dispatched to Achey's Junkyard for a reported tire fire. Chief 56-2 (Tom Rarick) arrived on the scene to confirm the dispatch and assumed command. Initial alarm consisted of Company 56. While Engine 56-10 was enroute, Company 47 (Landingville) was requested on the incident. Given the nature of the incident and its' location, Chief 56-2 asked for a Mutual Aid Tanker assignment. This brought Company 42 (Deer Lake), Company 34 Station 1 ( Summitt Station) and Station 4 (Liberty - Schuylkill Haven) to the incident. Two portable water sources were secured and fed the fireground operations. The fire was suppressed by utilizing Company 47's compressed air foam system. Units operated on the scene for nearly two hours. Chief 56-2 had the command, while Capt. 56-91 (Kris Fessler) handled water supply operations.


FIREFIGHTER 1 - MORE PREPARATION

Saturday, November 13, 2004 - More preparation continues as the members of the department gather to practice for the upcoming Pennsylvania State Firefighter 1 Certification. Members can be seen around the station either reading or reviewing for the various skill scenerios. On Saturday afternoon, some of the members reviewed SCBA donning and inspection.


MVA - RT 61 AND RARING DR.
Tuesday, November 9, 2004 - On Tuesday afternoon at approximately 15:15 hrs. the OFD along with Company 47 (Landingville) were dispatched to the intersection of Rt. 61 and Raring Dr. for an MVA with rollover.  Members of both departments conducted traffic control and took care of fluids.

FIREFIGHTER 1 REVIEW COURSE

Sunday, November 7, 2004 - On Sunday several members of the OFD completed the Firefighter 1 Review course.  The course started last Tuesday night and concluded Sunday evening.  This program will help us prepare for the upcoming certification.  The members will travel to the Schuylkill County Fire School on December 3rd and 4th, to take the Firefighter 1 written and practical examinations.  Good luck gang.


WORK DETAIL AROUND THE STATION

Saturday, October 30, 2004 - For the past several weeks members of the OFD have been making station improvements. The upgrades consist of constructing and installing new lockers, painting the engine room, and block sealing the back wall.  These improvements were much needed and the members are performing all of the work by themselves to minimize cost.  The work is far from over, but what work is completed thus far is looking fine.  Great job guys.


HALLOWEEN PARADE

Wednesday, October 27, 2004 - On Wednesday evening the OFD participated in the annual Borough Halloween Parade. The parade sponsored by the Orwigsburg Lions Club continues to grow in size every year. Rescue 56, Engine 56-10, Engine 56-11, and the Duty Officer vehicle all were in the parade. The crews from each vehicle walked next to the apparatus to hand candy out to the spectators. Congratulations to the Orwigsburg Lions Club for a job well done.


FIRST AID / CPR TRAINING - WRAPS UP

Tuesday, October 26, 2004 - On Tuesday evening several members of the department gathered at the station for the conclusion of the First Aid portion of the First Aid / CPR class. Several weeks ago was the CPR portion of the program, which was completed. This was the last of the prerequisites that are required for the State Firefighter 1 Certification. Next week the members will be starting the Firefighter 1 Review course which will be held at the Station and the Schuylkill County Fire School.


HAZARDOUS MATERIALS AWARENESS CLASS

Wednesday, October 20, 2004 - On Wednesday evening, members of the department gathered at the fire station for a Haz Mat Awareness class. This class is one of the prerequisites for the State Firefighter 1 Certification process. The class focused on classifications of hazardous materials, reviewing past incidents that occurred, conducting group excercises, and completing a test. The group really enjoyed the class that was given by State Instructor Mike Kitsock. Pictured in the first photo is Mike Kitsock preparing the first of several table-top scenerios. The second photo is a group picture that was taken after the class.


TOM AND SUE TAKE THEIR VOWS

Saturday, October 16, 2004 - On Saturday morning, Thomas Bowitz and Susan Coyne exchanged wedding vows at Salem United Methodist Church in front of family and friends. After the ceremony, the wedding party was escorted to the reception at the New Ringgold Fire Hall by Engine 56-10. A couple of the members showed their support for the marriage as they danced at the reception. As the new married couple left to go home, they were afforded a special treat of a double rainbow. All of us at OFD wish Mr. and Mrs. Bowitz a long and happy marriage filled with love.


FIRE PREVENTION WEEK - VERY BUSY

Friday, October 8, 2004 - It has been a very busy week for the members of the OFD.  Members of the department led by Asst. Fire Chief Jesse Zimmerman, spent many hours reviewing the basics of fire prevention with several groups of children as well as parents.  The OFD provided Fire Prevention Programs for the elementary school, nurseries and day care centers.  An "Open House" was also held on Thursday, where folks could tour the station to meet the members, see the apparatus, and enter the Fire Safety Trailer.  The children really enjoyed "Sparky the Fire Dog", which was also at the Open House.  A big thank you to the members of the OFD for their dedication and commitment during the intense week long effort.  Great job by Jesse Zimmerman, who also holds the position of Fire Prevention Officer, for scheduling the busy week.


MVA RIDGE ROAD
Tuesday, October 5, 2004 - At 8:50 p.m. OFD was dispatched to a vehicle accident on Ridge Road. County Communications advised that this was an automobile vs. mobile home accident. Pulling up on Ridge Road we learned that a car had failed to make a turn and ended up running into the side of a parked motor home. The two occupants of the car had self extricated and were treated by Orwigsburg EMS and the Crew of Rescue 56. The motor home was unoccupied.

NEW LIFE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY,
FIRST ANNUAL FALL HARVEST FESTIVAL

Saturday, October 2, 2004 - On Saturday morning the OFD was invited to attend a community event at Zion's picnic grove, which was sponsored by the New Life Christian Academy. A crew from the OFD took Engine 56-10 over to the event and provided demonstrations and apparatus tours. Members also took the time to educate parents and children about the importance of fire prevention.


LADDER 49 - OPENS AT THEATERS

Friday, October 1, 2004 - On Friday, the much anticipated Ladder 49 opened around theaters everywhere. On Friday several groups attended the different showings of the movie throughout the area. Everyone could not only wait to see the movie, but also see if any of the 56 boys could be seen in the movie as "extras". The OFD was not disappointed, as we watched OFD Lt. Thomas P. Bonner on the big screen during the Medal Ceremony scene. The movie was great and we all had a great time.


LADDER 21 - NEW TRUCK HOUSING

Saturday, September 25, 2004 - On Saturday at 1pm, several members of the OFD attended the Phoenix Fire Company's (Station 20) of Pottsville new truck housing. The members of the Phoenix Fire Company housed their 2004 Pierce Dash / 1991 LTI Tractor drawn 110' aerial. Over the past few months, members of the OFD have occasionally stopped by Station 20 to see what kind of progress the boys from Phoenix were making. A special congratulations goes out to the Pottsville Bureau of Fire for their new addition to the fleet and a "job well done" is extended to the members and the truck committee of the Phoenix Fire Company for their continuous hard work, dedication, and commitment. This is their first "new" truck housing since 1959.


STRUCTURE FIRE DEER LAKE

Saturday, September 25, 2004 - At 7:00 a.m. Orwigsburg Fire Department was dispatched with Deer Lake, Auburn and Landingville Fire Departments to a reported Structure fire on Centre Turnpike in Deer Lake. Arriving on scene we encountered a fully involved 1 1/2 story residence. The occupants of the dwelling were all accounted for and a defensive operation was initiated. OFD firefighters operated a 2 1/2" hand line and a portable monitor from Engine 5610 as part to the fire attack. Engine 5611 set up to draft from Deer Lake and established a fill site for the tanker shuttle which supplied the fireground.


SHOW & TELL - AT THE FOOTBALL GAME

Friday, September 24, 2004 - After the Hometown Heroes introduction, the members and apparatus of the OFD took in the football game as usual. While at the football game we received several visits from children and parents. OFD members took the time to show the visitors around the Engine and the Rescue as well as the equipment that is carried on both pieces. Posing inside the cab of Engine 10 are future firefighters Drew Grace (left) age 4 and Brent Kaunas (right) age 4, both of Orwigsburg. Pictured in the second photo is Engine Capt. Scott Rarick, demonstrating to the group, how the portable radio equipment operates.