At 2:21 PM this afternoon, our Decon Unit was requested to support the County Haz Mat Team by Chief 25 (Hayden - Merion Fire Co of Ardmore) and Chief 81 (LoPresiti - County Haz Mat Team). A white bottle containing an unknown substance was thrown from a vehicle in the intersection of Lancaster Avenue and Woodside Road in Ardmore. The bottle was emitting a white cloud or gas. Lower Merion police arrived first, setup a perimeter and requested the fire department. Upon arrival and a quick investigation, the County Haz Mat Team was notified and a response started. 21 members responded with the Utility 21, Decon Trailer 21 and Engine 21 to support what would be a 3.5 hour operation to identify and mitigate the unknown substance. Members dressed in protective suits with breathing apparatus and initiated a rapid decontamination of two Ardmore firefighters. Once the haz mat team arrived and setup, we supported their operation of investigation and identification of the substance, decontaminating haz mat technicians upon completion of their operation.
SUNDAY MORNING FIRE
Date:
4.28.12
This morning Penn Wynne and Narberth Fire Companies were dispatched to the unit block of Rolling Road for smoke on the third floor. Engine 21 arrived and observed light smoke from a third floor window. A hose line was deployed as crews discovered a fire in the closet of a third floor bedroom. The fire was quickly extinguished, and a check for possible fire extension proved negative. A full working fire dispatch was dispatched, adding Engine 25, RIC 23, and Air 24.
CAR PRECARIOUSLY RESTING
Date:
4.25.12
The late afternoon brought the rescue assignment dispatched to Montgomery Avenue and Glenn Roads in Ardmore. Engine 25 (Ardmore), along with Rescues 22 and 21 responded for a vehicle resting on a parking bollard. The rescue companies worked together to secure the vehicle using cribbing and struts to ensure the vehicle would not move, before assisting the uninjured driver out of the vehicle. The company was back in service in about 30 minutes.
A BUSY SATURDAY
Date:
4.21.12
Our day had an early start with six members heading off to Norristown on board Rescue 21 for the final day of trench rescue class. Members were completing a 16 hour class with our brothers from the Norristown Fire Department and Upper Merion fire companies. Around 11:15 in the morning, the rescue assignment was dispatched for Montgomery Avenue just east of the Blue Route overpass. Callers were reporting a single vehicle on its side with at least one person who cannot get out. Crews from Bryn Mawr (23), Belmont Hills (22) and Penn Wynne (21) Fire Companies as well as Lower Merion Police and Narberth Ambulance made the response. First arriving Bryn Mawr firefighters confirmed a single vehicle on its side with multiple (5) occupants, some disabled, trapped inside. Crews from all three companies worked dligently to stablize the vehicle and remove the roof.
After dinner, Penn Wynne was dispatched to Yarmouth Road for a carbon monoxide alarm activation, followed by two fire alarm activations at the Greenhill Condominiums.
A Tribute to our Brothers
Date:
4.12.12
The Brigade and Directors of the Penn Wynne - Overbrook Hills Fire Company send our condolences to the Philadelphia Fire Department on the line of duty death of Lt. Robert Heary and Firefighter Daniel Sweeney of Ladder Company 10, who lost their lives while operating at a multiple alarm fire. A
contingent of firefighters from Penn Wynne and Gladwyne journeyed up to the firehouse to pay our respects and add to the memorial outside of the station.
Tones dropped very early this morning just after 3:00 AM for Engine 21 to assist Chester County as part of the Montgomery County Fire Task Force. The engine joined five other engines and two ladders as part of a county wide task force to stand-by along St. Peter's Road protecting homes while a massive fire burned acres of woods and brush in French Creek State Park. The engine was in service through the late afternoon. Kudos to the crew for such a long day. As they returned home, Penn Wynne was dispatched to Rolling Road for a dwelling with the report of an odor of burning in the house. Crews checked the house, but where unable to locate any source.
Haverford House Fire
Date:
4.5.12
After a nights rest, Penn Wynne was called to assist at a house fire in Haverford. Rescue 21 made the response and stood by as the FAST Team. After conditions improved due to the
aggressive fire attack by Ardmore firefighters along with Gladwyne, Bryn Mawr and Narberth, crews from Penn Wynne were released from the FAST Team duties and went in service assisting with overhaul.
RIT Run to Radnor
Date:
4.4.12
Mid afternoon today, tones starting dropping for an assist to Bryn Mawr Fire Co on a working dwelling fire on South Ithan Ave. in Villanova. Rescue 21 made the response to stand by as a FAST Team in support of our fellow firefighters from Lower Merion and surrounding townships. We stood by for a good six hours keeping abreast of conditions and the whereabouts of dozens of firefighters.
2012 FDNY SYMPOSIUM
Date:
3.16.12
For the third year in a row, members of the Penn Wynne Fire Company have organized the township wide trip to the FDNY Symposium. The symposium is a two day classroom training session on various topics. This years topics included preparation for Hurricane Irene, arson investigation, handling a mayday, and decontamination procedures to name a few. This year we were joined by members of the Union Fire Association who also attended. We can't wait to see what next years topics will be.
HOMEMADE EXPLOSIVES AWARENESS
Date:
2.29.12
Tonight, the Montgomery County Sheriffs Departments Bomb Squad came out to Penn Wynne to present a program to on Recognition & Identification of Homemade Explosives for First Responders. This program was designed for firefighters and other first responders to easily identify homemade explosives, chemical precursor, makeshift laboratory's and other material associated with homemade explosives. Following the presentation a 'Show & Tell" of their equipment and resources were also demonstrated including the Robot and Bomb Suit. We would like to thank Sheriff Eileen Behr and the members of the Bomb Squad for their dedication and commitment to outreach with the local fire departments.
CAR vs. GAS METER
Date:
2.11.12
This morning, Penn Wynne Fire Firefighters were alerted to a gas leak in the 200 block of Wiltshire Road. Incident notes stated a vehicle rolled into a residential gas meter attached to the house. Upon arrival, firefighters were greeted with a very loud hissing noise and no apparent way to shut-off the gas due to the damage. Command was established, and Peco was provided an updated report and asked to expedite. As a precaution, the nearby homes were evacuated and a 2.5" hand line and water supply were stretched. Upon arrival, Peco shut down the gas service and Penn Wynne firefighters picked up and returned to quarters.
VALOR & MERIT AWARDS PRESENTATION
Date:
2.2.12
Last night at the Lower Merion Board of Commissioners Fire Committee, awards for outstanding service were distributed to several Penn Wynne Firefighters. Last December,the Penn Wynne Fire Company was dispatched to the Greenhill Condos for a fire alarm. While en route, the company received several reports of smoke on the fifth floor and then of an active fire in unit 502. Upon arrival, Engine 21's crew acted quickly moving to the fifth floor. Firefighter Andrew Fridley forced open the door and began a search of the unit, locating and removing the victim to safety in the stair tower. Assistant Chief David Watrous and Firefighter Brad Remick moved quickly to keep the fire in check with extinguishers until a hose line was put in service. Together their efforts saved a life. Firefighter Fridley was presented with the Valor Award for an act of outstanding courage in the rescue of an individual on the fireground. Assistant Chief Watrous and Firefighter Remick were presented with the Merit Award for an act of intelligent and valuable service in the rescue or aid of another person while on or off the fireground. Congratulations and an awesome job guys!
CONGRATULATIONS GLADWYNE
Date:
2.2.12
The Penn Wynne-Overbrook Hills Fire Company would like to congratulate Assistant Chiefs Mike Schwarz, John Remillard and Chip McClean of the Gladwyne Fire Company on their Heroism Awards received last night. Mike, John and Chip made multiple water rescues last August during the hurricane, assisting fire units in Whitemarsh Township. The most notable of their rescues was of fellow firefighters from Conshohocken when their boat capsized. Tremendous work guys!
ASSIST TO ARDMORE
Date:
1.30.12
At 5:46 AM this morning, 21 members were alerted to assist Ardmore in the 200 Block of Linwood Ave for a house fire. Initial reports were smoke in the residence and a smoke detedtor sounding. First arriving units found smoke from the second floor and a fire in the rear bedroom. Engine 25's crew stretched a hoseline while Ladder 21's crew went to the roof to open up. Engine 21's crew dropped 400' of 5" hose from the hydrant at County Line and Linwood which was supplied by Engine 25-1. Crews made quick work of the fire containing it to a wall and floor in one room. 21 was back in service by 7 AM.
The celebrations continue in the Village of Penn Wynne, as we celebrate the birth of Firefighter Mike Dehoratius' second child. Grace Katherine was born on this date at 5:45PM, weighing 6lbs 15oz. Baby and mom Erin are both doing well. Congratulations!
Rescue Local
Date:
1.25.12
Around 1:30 this afternoon, the tones dropped for the second time today. Report of an accident with entrapment at Manoa and Henley Roads was received. Rescue and Engine 21 made the response. Upon arrival, they found a Ford Escape on its driver's side in the roadway. Crews worked along with Belmont Hills to stabilize the vehicle and flap the roof for patient access and removal. Ironically, as the roof was almost cut, the patient stood up and walked out the front window, which had been removed for the operation. The victim was transported to the hospital by Narberth Ambulance.
Congratulations to Firefighter Pat DeHoratius and his wife Sara on the birth of their first child Sophia Marie! Sophia entered the world on 1/23/2012 @ 03:24 hrs, tipping the scales at 7 lbs 6 ozs and 20" tall! Mom and Sophia are doing well. Congratulations to the entire DeHoratius family.
FIRST DUE HIGHRISE FIRE
Date:
12.12.11
Just before 11PM the company was dispatched to the Greenhill Condominiums on City Avenue for a fire alarm. Chief 21 arrived on location and reported that the building had lost power, and that there were reports of smoke on either the 4th or 5th floor. The Chief requested a commercial building fire dispatch, adding Station 26 (Narberth). When Engine 21 arrived, police were now confirming a fire on the 5th floor. Under the command of Assistant Chief Watrous, the crew encountered a 5th floor which was well charged with smoke, and a hysterical female in the hallway. Lower Merion Police dragged the female to the staircase, and crews entered the fire apartment. Firefighter Andrew Fridley began searching the apartment as Firefighter Brad Remick made his way to extinguish the fire in the kitchen. The fire was held in check until crews from Ladder and Rescue 21 were able to hook up to the standpipe system. At this point Firefighter Fridley emerged with a semi-conscious elderly resident and quickly removed her to safety. The fire was placed under control in about 45 minutes. The fire marshal is investigating the cause of the fire. News coverage can be found here:
Main Line Media News
Commercial Building Fire: Station 21 & 26
Working Fire Dispatch: Station 25 (special call full company), Air & Engine 24, RIT Squad 23
Ambulances: Station 313, Llanerch 34-7, 34-8 and Medic 108, Radnor 15-7
FAREWELL BOBBY
Date:
11.10.11
Today we laid to rest our commrade, Firefighter Robert Neely. A firefighters' funeral was conducted for the viewing Wednesday night and Thursday morning. After the viewing, the firefighter honor guard was dismissed so the services could begin. Once completed, the honor guard carried our brother to Ardmore's Engine 25-1, where he was raised and transported on top of the hose bed to the cemetary.
The Penn Wynne Fire Company would like to thank all of the fire companies from Lower Merion and Narberth for their participation. We especially want to thank the Union Fire Association and the Volunteer Medical Services Corp of Narberth for their help in staffing the honor guard. Finally, we'd like to thank the King of Prussia Fire Company and Goodwill Fire Company of Bridgeport for providing a cover up crew.
It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of long time member, past chief officer, past board member, and friend Robert Neely. Bob had served as a member of the Penn Wynne Fire Company since February of 1973. Funeral arraignments are as follows:
Wednesday, November 9, 2011 - A viewing will take place at the Chadwick and McKinney Funeral Home (30 East Athens Ave, Ardmore, PA) beginning at 6pm.
Thursday, November 10, 2011 - A viewing will take place from 11:00 AM to 12 Noon with a service immediately thereafter at the Chadwick and McKinney Funeral Home. Internment will be at West Laurel Hill Cemetery in Bala Cynwyd.
Please keep Bobby's family in your thoughts and prayers.
FIRE PREVENTION OPEN HOUSE
Date:
10.12.11
CANCELED DUE TO WEATHER!
The annual open house will take place on Wednesday October 12th at 7PM. The community is invited to stop by and tour the station, and meet members of your volunteer fire company.
Special thanks to local independant graphic designer Pat Sinclair for her help on our poster.
It is with sadness the Penn Wynne-Overbrook Hills Fire Company regrets to announce the passing of Vincent j Spiziri Sr. this past Sunday at age 93.
Vince was a long time member of the active volunteer brigade and served as President of the Board for 19 years. His viewing is planned for Thursday the 29th from 9:00am to 10:00am at Presentation BVM with a Mass of Christian burial immediately following.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to:
Penn Wynne - Overbrook Hills Fire Company
1440 Manoa Road
Wynnewood, PA 1909
HAZMAT IN PENN VALLEY
Date:
9.9.11
Tonight, we were called upon to assist Belmont Hills (Sta. 22) and the County Haz Mat Team (Sta. 81) on a Level 1 Haz Mat response. Station 22 arrived at a home on Hollow Road to find a 2.5 gallon bucket of what appeared to be powder chlorine reacting. Utility and Decon 21 made the response with BC 81-3 on board. Upon arrival, a plan of action was formulated. Hazmat technicians donned Level B suits with SCBA and a sample of the product in question was obtained and tested by the representatives of the County Haz Mat team. Once complete, the bucket was packaged and sealed and it would later be picked up by cleanup company. The technicians were decontaminated and vital signs were checked by Narberth Ambulance.
EARLY MORNING KITCHEN FIRE
Date:
8.11.11
This morning at approximately 4:30 AM the company was dispatched to Greywall Lane for a reported dishwasher on fire. Just prior to responding, Engine 21 was notified that the police were on location reporting a working kitchen fire. Engine 21 arrived and placed an inch and three quarter handline in service while crews from Ladder 21 ventilated, searched, and secured the power. The fire was quickly extinguished and overhaul performed to confirm there was no extension. Station 26 (Narberth) was added to the assignment and assisted with
ventilation and removing the dishwasher from the home. The company was in service for one hour.
CONGRATULATIONS
Date:
7.15.11
Congratulations to Career Firefighter Mike Gallagher and his wife Jennifer on the birth of their son Brandon Michael Gallagher. Baby Brandon arrived just after midnight weighing 6 lbs 11 oz and measuring 19" long. Mom and baby are doing well.
FIRST DUE RESCUE
Date:
7.12.11
At 5AM this morning Penn Wynne along with Belmont Hills Rescue 22 were dispatched to City Avenue and Haverford Road for a vehicle rescue. Rescue 21 arrived just behind units from the Philadelphia Fire Department at a corrected location of City Avenue and Allendale Road. One car had crashed head on into a tree on the city side. Rescue crews from both municipalities, including the elite Rescue 1, worked together to free the heavily entrapped occupants of the vehicle. The company was back within 45 minutes.
RESCUE ASSIST
Date:
7.11.11
Just after 4:00 this afternoon, Belmont Hills was dispatched to Hollow Road and the Expressway for a vehicle fire. With Squad 22 responding, FM 34-2 arrived on location and reported multiple injuries with entrapment bringing Rescue 21. Crews worked diligently together to stabilize the vehicles front end with ropes, straps, struts and cribbing. Once secure, the two victims were removed from the vehicle approximately eight feet off the ground.
This afternoon Rescue 21 was added to the working fire dispatch for Willow Way in Penn Valley. Companies 28 and 26 (Union and Narberth) arrived to find a working fire on the third floor of a single family dwelling. Rescue 21 arrived and was put to work for firefighting operations, relieving crews on the third floor and roof. The company was in service for approximately an hour. Thank you Llanerch Engine 34-2 for covering our local while we were out.
NFPA 1006 RESCUE TECHNICIANS
Date:
6.18.11
Congratulations to firefighters from Penn Wynne, Union, King of Prussia, and The Fairmount of Norristown who have spent the past month participating in a preparation course to pass the NFPA 1006 Core Requirements for Rescue Technician certification. Members have spent time during weeknights and weekends honing their skills and conducting scenarios in order to pass both the written and practical skills session. Today, members from Penn Wynne and Union conducted their practical evolutions after successfully passing the written test. We are pleased to report that all members passed this final stage and are now certified NFPA rescue technicians. (Not pictured: D. Crimi)
ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE
Date:
5.25.2011
Around 6:30PM the company was dispatched for a reported vehicle fire in the area of Lancaster Avenue and Remington Road. Engine 21 arrived to find a fire in the engine compartment of an SUV. The crew deployed a handline and extinguished the fire.
“Taste for Fire” on May 25th to Benefit Local Firefighters
Date:
5.25.2011
Instead of packing a lunch or
making dinner on Wednesday, May 25th, make reservations at
one of the many participating restaurants along the Main
Line and show your support for the volunteer firefighters
that serve our local area. “Taste for Fire” is sponsored by
The Main Line Chamber Foundation (MLCF), a non-profit
organization whose mission is to enhance the quality of life
in the Main Line region through the promotion of education
and volunteerism.
Restaurants donating
a portion of their proceeds on May 25th to help fund The
Main Line Chamber Foundation’s 2011 Scholarship Program are:
·
Verdad Restaurant
and Tequila Bar 818 West Lancaster Avenue, Bryn Mawr - (610)
520-9100 ·
Gullifty’s 1149 Lancaster Avenue, Rosemont - (610) 525-1851
·
Glenmorgan Bar
and Grill at the Radnor Hotel 593 W. Lancaster Avenue,
St. Davids - (610) 341-3188
·
J.R.
Monaghan’s 34 W. Lancaster Avenue, Ardmore - (484) 416-3547
·
The
Guard House 953 Youngs Ford Road, Gladwyne - (610) 649-9708
·
The Paddock
629 West Lancaster Avenue, Wayne - (610).687-3533
·
Anthony’s Coal
Fired Pizza 321 East Lancaster Ave., Wayne - (484)
580-8022 ·
Alfredo 668
Lancaster Ave, Berwyn - (610) 640-2962
“The funds collected
from these restaurants will directly benefit volunteer
firefighters and volunteer emergency medical services
personnel who selflessly donate their time—and in some
cases, put their lives on the line,” remarked Bill Grim, The
Main Line Chamber Foundation Board Chairman. Awards of up
to $1,000 per volunteer firefighter are awarded by the
Foundation to assist with post-secondary undergraduate
tuition.
Since 2001, the Main Line
Chamber Foundation has awarded over $120,000 in scholarships
to area students. “We felt it was important to focus on
volunteer firefighters, who are not paid employees, though
their volunteer service saves taxpayers millions of
dollars,” added Grim.
The recruitment and retention of
volunteers is a top priority for area fire companies, and
The Main Line Chamber Foundation Scholarship Program offers
tangible appreciation for volunteer firefighters that
encourages their continued service.
For more information
or to find out how to support The Main Line Chamber
Foundation, contact info@tasteforfire.com or call (610) 731-9430. So plan a
family dinner out, a working lunch or an after-work
gathering of friends on May 25th at one of the participating
“Taste for Fire” restaurants, and help support the hometown
heroes of the Main Line!
Afternoon Vehicle Fire
Date:
3.28.11
This afternoon, Station 21 was dispatched to the 600 block of Lancaster Avenue, at the Riggins Gas Station, for a vehicle fire. Engine 21 arrived on location to find a small fire underneath the vehicle and in the dash and console areas of the interior. The fire was quickly placed under control and the Company was back in service in a half hour. The photos are courtesy of Deputy Fire Marshal Frank Hand and Merion Fire Company Chief Tom Hayden.
HYBRID VEHICLE TRAINING
Date:
3.16.11
This weeks drill had the company travel up The Pike to Ardmore Toyota for an up close look at how a hybrid vehicle operates and what precautions we need to take as first responders. As one of the two rescue companies in the township, we need to be prepared for a rescue situation involving one of these vehicles. Members were shown the safe and proper way to de-energize the vehicle, as well as the electrical layout and airbag locations. Thank you Ardmore Toyota, the service department, and mechanics for taking the time to share your knowledge with us.
FDNY SYMPOSIUM
Date:
3.15.11
Once again, Penn Wynne firefighters were able to attend the annual FDNY Symposium. This years focus was on high rise firefighting tactics. Firefighters Remick, Fridley, and Conboy along with other Lower Merion firefighters spent two days at the FDNY training center known as The Rock. Thank you to the Lower Merion Firefighters Relief Association for financing this trip.
HIGH WINDS BRING A RESCUE IN ROSEMONT
Date:
2.19.11
Saturday afternoon the rescue box was dispatched to Rosemont College for a reported tree down on top of a car. Station 23 (Bryn Mawr) along with Rescues 22 (Belmont Hills) and 21 (Penn Wynne) arrived to find a tree down covering the entire vehicle with a conscious female trapped inside. Fortunately a township tree crew was already working on other downed trees and were requested to respond to assist. The tree was dissected to gain access to the vehicle, with the final section being six feet long and over two feet in diameter. With the tree out of the way, the crews went to work removing the drivers door and flapping back the roof to extricate the victim. Total extrication time was approximately 40 minutes.
ANNUAL SOCIAL
Date:
2.24.11
The annual fire company social is just around the corner, and the Penn Wynne Fire Company invites all area first responders to come and gather for a night of good food and camaraderie at 8PM on Thursday February 24th at the firehouse.
Another Rescue
Date:
1.21.2011
As the roads were drying up from yet another snow storm, the rescue assignment was dispatched for New Gulph and N. Roberts Roads in Bryn Mawr. Lower Merion police were on the scene of a two car accident with one vehicle on top of another with one victim trapped inside. Stations 23 (Bryn Mawr), Rescue 22 (Belmont Hills) and Rescue 21 were dispatched. The crew from 21 assisted with securing the battery and laddering the vehicle for patient removal. This morning's call marked a great display of teamwork between all three companies. Additional information courtesy of the Main Line Times.
Rescue Goes and Then Some
Date:
1.12.2011
This afternoon the company was dispatched to a vehicle rescue at Montgomery Avenue and Penn Road in the Wynnewood Section of Lower Merion. Narberth Ambulance arrived on the scene of a multi-vehicle accident and requested the rescue assignment for a door pop bringing Station 26 (Narberth) for an engine, Rescue 21 and Rescue 22 (Belmont Hills). Rescue 21 arrived, stabilized the car and popped the driver's door with the Maverick. Crews were in service for 15 minutes.
During the rescue assignment, there was a second call for a fire alarm on Mallwyd Road in the Merion Section. Engine 21 assisted Narberth but was recalled prior to arriving on scene.
Snow Storm
Date:
12.26.2010 - 12-27-2010
As the Nor'Easter storm approached, the crews from Penn Wynne braced for another storm. During the 24 hour period, the company ran four calls. The first alarm was for a vehicle rescue at 18:22 hours on 12/26 at Lancaster Ave and Clover Hill Road. On 12/27 beginning at 00:27 hours, we ran three calls consisting of a carbon monoxide detector activation, an assist ems call and a tree and wires call. Thanks to those members who staffed the station for an 18 hour period.
ALARM SYSTEM ALERTS FOR A FIRE
Date:
12.24.10
Tonight, Station 21 was dispatched to 1226 Knox Road in Wynnewood for a fire alarm. While enroute on Engine 21, Assistant 21 received notes of an additional alarm activation at the residence and the a report of an active fire from LMPD on location. Assistant 21 called for a re-dispatch of the assignment as a buidling with the working fire procedures bringing Station 25 (Ardmore), Engine 26 (Narberth), Air 24 (Gladwyne and Utility 28 (Union Fire Association). Upon arrival, Engine 21's crews found a small fire in the rear of the residence. Crews quickly extinguished the fire and held the assignment to Station 21 and the first out truck from Ardmore. The house was ventilated and air qulity levels were checked. 21 was in service for 30 minutes.
2ND ALARM TO MERION
Date:
12.23.10
Today, Station 21 responded with a full company assist to the 200 block Winding Way in the Merion section of Lower Merion to assist Station 28 on a working structure fire. Our orders from command were to respond the the Waldron Mercy Campus off Montgomery Avenue and setup for master stream operations to the rear of the involved structure. Engine 21 dropped 1300' of five inch hose from a hydrant off Meetinghouse Lane to supply Ladder 21. Once all trucks were in position, crews assisted with the fire supression and overhaul efforts. Our decontamintion shelter was setup for Station 313's rehab operation. Crews operated in the cold temperatures for four and a half hours. Thanks to the Oakmont Fire Company for providing a cover for our district.
Congratulations Drew!
Date:
12.7.10
Tonight Firefighter Drew Kopicki graduated from the Montgomery County Firefighter I program. Drew spent 166 hours in class learning the fundamentals of firefighting through a four module program awarding him his Pennsylvania State Firefighter I certificate and an application for the Proboard National Firefighter I Certification. Deputy Chief Ted Schmid pinch hit for Chief Fallon attending the ceremony.
82nd Annual Banquet
Date:
11.06.10
Tonight,
our members enjoyed our 82nd banquet at The Clothier Hall in
Wynnewood. Members enjoyed a great meal and danced the
night away. Congratulations go to the following award
recipients:
2
Years – Drew Kopicki 5
Years – Daniel L. Cullen Jr., William Neely, Zachary
Ruth, Anthony W. Molchany, Isaac Murphy-Trotsky 15
Years – Christopher T. Feder, Jeffrey M. Fallon, Patrick
J. DeHoratius 25
Years – Steven L. Kaercher, Edward W. Schmid III 35
Years – Warren D. Neely 2500
Calls – Robert M. Kaercher, Edward W. Schmid III
Samuel M. Russell Award - William M. Neely
Top Runner Awards:
Brian Conboy, Michael
DeHoratius, Christopher Feder, Andrew Fridley, Drew
Kopicki, Anthony LePera, Christine Neely, Warren Neely, William
Neely, Brad Remick
Extraordinary Service During Three Winter Storms:
Christopher Feder, John Fallon, Anthony Molchany, Andrew
Fridley, Christine Neely, Amy Vassallo, Brian Conboy, Isaac
Murphy-Trotsky, William Neely, David Watrous, Brad Remick,
Ted Schmid, Paul Daly, Pat DeHoratius, John Derham, Dan
Gilbert and Mike Gilbert
Rescue Services at LMHS
Date:
10.27.10
On Wednesday, October 27th members boarded ladder, rescue and utility 21 enroute to the Lower Merion High School complex to train on some techinical rescue techniques. Utilizing the roof of a building slated for demolition, Engineer and Technical Rescue Coordinator Chris Feder gave an overview of the equipment that is carried on the Rescue and how each should be utilized on the rescue scene. As a culmination to the training, a rope system was deployed, rigged and using the tripod two of our members, Engineer Jeff Fallon and Deputy Chief Ted Schmid, were lowered down a roof hatch to simulate a confined space rescue scenario. This was a great learning experience and a good time was had by all.
2010 Penn Wynn Open House a Success!!!
Date:
10.6.2010
Despite a rainy night and with Roy Halladay in the midst of throwing the 2nd all-time no-hitter in Game 1 of the NLDS for the Phillies, many neighbors, families and friends came by the firehouse for our annual Open House. Amongst the many events of the evening, visitors and children alike enjoyed being able to tour the firehouse, each truck, and the township fire safety trailer. They also were able to learn how to extinguish small fires and the proper steps to follow when a smoke detector sounds. To cap the evening, with Chief Fallon narrating, firefighters were able to demonstrate how we operate on the scene of a vehicle rescue. We would like to thank the community for making this evening a success and to Richard Weisgrau, from the Ardmore, Merion, Wynnewood Patch website for the photos. Please check out his article here.
2010 Walk for the Cure
Date:
10.16.2010
This past Saturday, participants from the 2010 3-day Walk for the Cure strolled right in front of the firehouse. The streets and sidewalks were crowded with members from the Penn Wynne-Overbrook Hills community cheering and supporting this great cause. Station 21 showed its support by decorating the doors of the firehouse and by bringing Freddy the Firetruck out to show his support.
Inaugural Burn for the New Grill
Date:
10.8.2010
After recently purchasing a brand new grill, members of the Fire Company decided to hold an inaugural cookout to break it in. With the Phillies and Reds playing in game 2 of the NLDS on the projection screen set up in the Engine Bay, hamburgers, hot dogs, South Philly sausages and lots of desserts, a great time was had by all. Even Freddy the Firetruck came out to enjoy the evenings festivities. Thank you to all those members who donated their time to provide the food and grilling expertise!
Decon 21 to King of Prussia
Date:
10.1.2010
On Friday, October 1st, the day after the tri-state area received over 7 inches of rain, Station 21 was alerted to respond with Decon 21 to assist and support the King of Prussia Fire Company, in Upper Merion Township as they were operating at a Flourine leak inside a commercial building, next to the King of Prussia mall. Under the command of Assistant 21-2, the Engine, Utility and Decon unit responded with 5 members. Once on scene, members assisted the Montgomery County HazMat team, Station 81, and setup the decon corridor. After further investigation, HazMat team members determined that the room containing the leak was clear and no other areas inside the building were contaminated. After successfully deconing two member of the HazMat team, 21 units began to take up and cleared the scene in just under 3 hours. Thanks to Station 25 for providing an Engine to cover while we were out.
Annual Fire Prevention Open House
Date:
10.6.10
This year, our annual Fire Prevention Open House will take place on Wednesday, October 6th. This is a great opportunity for our local community to stop by the firehouse, tour the station, and learn about how we, as your volunteer fire company, protect you and your neighborhood! Please click on the link below to view this year's Fire Prevention flyer, which was created by a local independent graphic artist, Pat Sinclair. We would like to extend our thanks and appreciation to Pat, for donating her time to help promote our annual community open house. The fun starts at 7PM, see you then!
Today Engine 21 made a special trip to the parents house of long-time member, Engineer Domenick Crimi, on Morris Road to wish him well on his wedding day. We would like to extend our congratulations to Dom & Maria and we wish them a lifetime of happiness together!
CONGRATULATIONS
Date:
9.7.10
Congratulations to Firefighter Mike DeHoratius and his wife Erin on the birth of their first child, Kaylee Anne. Kaylee was born this date, weighing 7 pounds 1 ounce and measured 19 inches long. Mom, Dad, and Baby are all doing great.
SATURDAY CRASH
Date:
9.6.10
A quiet Saturday afternoon was interrupted when the sound of tires screeching followed by a loud crash echoed through the station. A two vehicle crash occurred at the corner of Manoa and Trent Roads, pushing one vehicle through a fence. The rescue assignment was dispatched as the passenger side door to one of the vehicles could not be opened to asses the injured elderly occupants. Rescue 21 went in service and quickly removed the door. During the course of the incident size up, a fuel leak was detected. It was quickly deduced that as a result of the collision, the one car ran over a street sign. The metal post of the sign punctured the near full gas tank, spilling the contents. With a protective hand line in place, crews began to contain the leak. The company was in service for an hour and a half.
Penn Wynne Visits the Reading Phillies
Date:
8.28.10
Today members, their families and friends traveled northwest to the city of Reading to see the Double-A Reading Phillies take on the Binghamton Mets in an evening doubleheader matchup. After losing the first game by a score of 3-4, the R-Phils rallied late in the second game to win in extra innings by a score of 5-4. The night was filled with exciting baseball, good food and a great time. We would like to thank the Highland Park Fire Company for sending a few of their members to stand by in our station, while we attended the game.
HAZMAT DECON TRAINING
Date:
5.23.10
Today Decon 21 participated in a law enforcement hazardous materials exercise with local, county, and federal agencies. Our objective for this drill was to set up and perform decontamination for responders who were investigating various incidents that were potentially hazardous.
PENN WYNNE GOES FISHING
Date:
5.22.10
Saturday morning a handful of firefighters traveled down to Cape May, New Jersey for a four hour deep sea fishing outing. The weather was great as the group went out,
caught a handful of fish (including two sharks) and had a fun time. Other summer outings are currently in the works.
Burn Drill
Date:
4.21.10
On Wednesday evening, members from Penn Wynne traveled to the Lower Merion Township Training Tower for our monthly burn drill. Utilizing a tool often overlooked, firefighters from the company completed three different evolutions using pressurized water extinguishers. Each evolution, taught and reminded members a different tactic for containing and extinguishing small room and content fires. This weeks drill was an excellent review for our senior firefighters, as well as a great learning experience for the company's newer members who were amazed at the amount of fire one water can will extinguish.
REMEMBERING OUR BROTHER
Date:
4.17.10
Members traveled to the Public Safety Training Campus for a ceremony and dedication remembering two firefighters, one of them being township firefighter Tom Hays. Tom passed away in December 2006 after operating at a fire in Wynnewood. Tom started his career at the Merion Fire Company of Ardmore, then joined the Narberth Fire Company, and still loved the job and had enough time to join the Penn Wynne Fire Company. Today we gathered to remember and honor their memory so no one forgets their sacrifice.
LADDER ASSIST
Date:
4.16.10
This morning firefighters from the Penn Wynne Fire Company attended a special ceremony at the Penn Wynne Elementary School with Ladder 21. The students and staff participated in the Philadelphia 76ers “Read for Ronald” program and fundraiser during February, 2010. As an incentive to read and to raise money for such a worthy cause, Mr. Bernatowicz, the school principal, agreed to spend a school day reading on the roof of the Penn Wynne School if the number of minutes read by everyone totaled more than 100,000 minutes. The students and staff rose to the challenge and read for 145,495 minutes raising $6,651.00. Accordingly, this morning Mr. B climbed to the roof with the asistance of a few of our firefighters as the students and staff watched and cheered him on. Mr. B spent the day reading and greeting the students as they played on the field during recess.
EXTRA TRAINING ACQUIRED STRUCTURE DRILL
Date:
4.5.10
On Monday evening 6 members from Penn Wynne mounted Rescue 21 and headed to the 1200 block of Rock Creek Road, in the Gladwyne section of Lower Merion, to drill at an acquired structure slated for demolition. Once on location, our crew teamed up with crews from the Merion Fire Company of Ardmore, Station 25, to perform multiple fire attack, search & rescue and roof ventilation evolutions. Since these types of drills are few and far between, we wanted to take advantage of this type of training. We would like to thank our neighbors to the north for allowing us to participate in this drill, and we look forward to working together at joint drills in the future!
FROM PENN WYNNE TO THE BIG APPLE
Date:
3.15 - 3.16
On Sunday evening, three members of the Penn Wynne Fire Company departed Lower Merion Township for the Big Apple for a two-day Fire Service Symposium. Assistant Chief David Watrous, Engineer Chris Feder, and Firefighter Brad Remick attended the 2010 FDNY Special Operations Symposium held at the FDNY Fire Academy AKA “The Rock”. This year’s symposium focused on procedures of the FDNY’s Special Operations Command. The conference was attended by over 400 professionals from across the country and around the world, including Australia, the Netherlands, Panama, Canada, France and of course Penn Wynne. FDNY chiefs and company officers gave lectures on a variety of topics, such as hazardous materials operations, rescue company procedures, safety command guidelines, marine company operations and anti-terrorist command procedures. A special presentation also was given by Chief Joe Downey, who headed up the FDNY’s Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) team in Haiti.
Penn Wynne attendees absorbed a plethora of information, spoke with commanding officers and networked with other professionals from the fire service community. There was a variety of manufactures on display showing off the latest and greatest tools in the public safety world. Following the end of the days presentations, tours of the facility were offered to the brother and sisters who attended. Penn Wynne members felt it was their duty to take the tour and bring back some ideas for training.
Little did we know that we would be touring a training academy like no other. The training grounds included a full-scale city “mini” city with inside training facilities. One of these facilities was called the field house. FDNY members are able to drive in apparatus into the 6-story building, which has a cover and bay doors, and conduct full scale training evolutions. Some of these evolutions include tower ladder operations, ground ladder evolutions, rappelling and high angle rescue, hose advancement, apparatus placement and a variety of other evolutions. The grounds also included a full-scale subway platform with three actual subway cars.
The symposium was a great success and members are looking forward to next year’s topic. A great thanks goes out to the FDNY Foundation for sponsoring this event and FDNY for hosting this symposium. A great deal of information was passed on. The Fire Department of New York has learned a great deal since the September 11th attacks and we were happy to have been a part of absorbing this information and bringing it back to our Brothers and Sisters in Lower Merion.
God Bless
Ice Rescue Certification
Date:
2.28.10
Well the snowy month of February did not stop the Bomberos from Penn Wynne from conducting training, in fact, it made training easier. Members from the Penn Wynne, Gladwyne, Belmont Hills, and Spring Mill Fire Companies completed an Ice Rescue program. The program began on a Tuesday evening with the Ice Rescue Awareness portion. The next evening and following Sunday we completed the Technician portion. Members braved the cold weather and headed for the fairway of the Philadelphia Country Club. We teed of at 9am with the first four people walking on ice. Over the course of the day, firefighters were able to practice everything they were taught in the classroom. In order to obtain certification as an “Ice Rescue Technician”, members had to don our cold water immersion suits carefully walk to the hole in the ice and conduct a variety of rescues using various techniques. To keep the rotation moving and allow members to stay warm, the inflatable Zumro tent from Decon 21 was set up with the
accompanying heater. At the end of the day, everyone did a great job and learned a great deal
Special thanks goes out to the Gladwyne Fire Company for their assistance and cooperation in the program and to Start Rescue, Inc. for providing well trained, professional, and knowledgeable Instructors. A VERY special thanks to the Philadelphia County Club and Dan from the Grounds Department for allowing us to use their facilities for this program. The Country Club was kind enough to provide us with Hot Coffee, Tea and Hot Chocolate all day and a warm lunch.
We hope that the next time we “tee off”, there will not be a foot of snow on the ground.
ANNUAL COMPANY SOCIAL
Date:
2.25.10
The annual fire company social is just around the corner, and the Penn Wynne Fire Company invites all area first responders to come and gather for a night of good food and camaraderie at 8PM on Thursday February 25th at the firehouse..
MORE SNOW!
Date:
2.9.10-2.10.10
The Delaware Valley was hit with yet another significant snow fall, this one producing a heavier, wetter snow. This made clearing more difficult, and brought down wires and tree limbs all over the area. Once again members stepped up to the plate and manned the station for 48 hours.
The company reminds all citizens to please adopt a hydrant on your street and clear the mound of snow that covers it. This helps us better protect you!
ANOTHER MAJOR SNOW STORM
Date:
2.5.10-2.6.10
The Delaware
Valley was hit with another major snow storm Friday night
and most of Saturday, totally 28 inches. Eight (8)
dedicated volunteers manned the station for 36 hours,
answering three calls. The first call was an accidental
fire alarm, the second call was a vehicle rescue where
no services were rendered, and finally we went out to assist
the ambulance on a medical local.
RIT
21 ON FATAL APARTMENT FIRE
Date:
2.2.10
Tuesday evening
Station 25 (Ardmore) was dispatched to the Hunter House
Apartments at 449 West Montgomery Avenue for a fire alarm
activation. The call was upgraded to a building fire with
residence reporting smoke on the second floor with one
apartment door feeling hot. The Working Fire upgrade was
added to the ticket bringing Engine and Air 24 along with
Rescue 21 for the RIT. The RIT crew of 6 arrived and staged
our equipment at the command post. A minute later we were
requested to go to work and assist with searches and
evacuating the residence. Engine 21 was dispatched to take
over RIT duties. Rescue 21's crew split up and each took a
different floor, conducting secondary searches and smoke
evacuations. Engine 25's crew held the fire to the bedroom
it started in, unfortunately one victim was found in that
bedroom and was deceased.
Units on Scene: Ardmore (full
company), Bryn Mawr (full company), Gladwyne (full company),
Rescue & Engine 21, Narberth Ambulance, Lower Merion Fire
Department Office, Lower Merion Police, Montgomery County
Detectives & Coroner.
HOSPITAL RESCUE
Date:
2.1.10
This morning
Company 21, Rescue 22, and Narberth Ambulance were
dispatched to Lankenau Hospital for an injured worker on a
roof. Assistant 21-1 (D. Gilbert) arrived and established
the command. Crews found an injured worker on the roof,
with no technical rescue equipment needed to remove him.
The victim was carried off of the roof and handed over to
Lankenaus' Emergency Department.
THREE
FOR SATURDAY
Date:
1.30.10
Saturday morning
Engine 21 relocated to The Village of Gladwyne while they
operated at a three alarm apartment complex fire in Chester
County. Three hours into the coverage, a building fire was
dispatched in the Ardmore section of the township. Chief 25
was quickly on scene reporting a working fire with
entrapment. The working fire upgrade brought the balance of
Penn Wynne and the cover up Engine into the scene. Crews
from Ardmore, Bryn Mawr, Penn Wynne and Gladwyne operated in
a three story twin converted to apartments with fire that
started in the basement and extended to the second floor. As
we were wrapping up, we were treated to a some snow which
ended up blanketing the area. Later that night the company
went to the unit block of Henley Road for an oven fire.
Crews secured the oven that caught fire in an attempt to
ride the house of some wildlife that had entered.
