Welcome to Hillsborough Twp. Fire Co. 2

Mission and Vision Statement
Mission Statement
To prevent loss of life and property from natural and man-made disasters through fire control, rescue and public education.

Vision Statement
As volunteers working together for the common good of those we protect and serve, we strive to be an unwavering member of our community in the face of danger and to have a positive impact on the quality of life of our residents, visitors and neighbors when called upon day or night.

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First Due Structure Fire

At 1037, the fire district was alerted to 433 Amwell Road for the reported structure fire, fire in the bathroom. Arrival of 37-C3 show nothing visible. First due Engine, 37-103 with a full crew, went in to investigate. A construction worker was on scene and advised that he was working on piping in the walls when he noticed a fire in the insulation. He tore apart adjacent walls and pulled insulation out after calling 911 to reduce the extension. Further investigations proved negative with no extension to any other area of the residence. All units were available within 20 minutes.

Units on scene included Engine 37-103, Truck 37-116, Engine 36-101, Ladder 38-118, DC 37-C2, AC 37-C3, FM 661, C37 and EMS 79.

Installation of Officers, 2012

On the evening of January 21, 2012, the members and guests of Station 37 gathered at Elizabeth Ave Firehouse to honor and welcome the Installation of the 2012 Company Officers. With President Ted McCollum leading the night, the officers of the executive line, Operational Fire Line and the Ladies Auxiliary Line were sworn into their respective positions by Mayor Carl Suraci. Following the swearing in, Ex-Chief Pat Buckley spoke about his tenure as Chief and how he welcomes the New Chief into his position. Chief Bruce Vatter then said a few words regarding his goals and expectations for the year. Awards were presented by Vice President Mohammed Khashab and the winners are as follows:

Member of the Year: Jon Senchisen

Firefighter of the Year: Bob Wiecenski

"Get out of Bed" Award: Pat Buckley

Junior Member of the Year Award: Adam Capwell

Thank you to all the guests that attended the ceremonies to honor our 2012 officers.

Good Luck to all!

SCESTA Graduation

On Friday January 20, Somerset County Emergency Services Training Academy held its annual Graduation Ceremony at the Hillsborough Middle School. We would like to congratulate Firefighter Abel Escamilla who graduated Firefighter I, Captain Bill Shaffer and Lieutenant Rich Crater who graduated Fire Officer I, Junior Firefighter/EMT Adam Capwell who graduated EMT-Basic and Firefighter/Paramedic Ryan Buckley who graduated Fire Instructor Level I and Level II.

6 additional new members

During the January General Membership meeting, Membership Committee Chair Dave Raymond presented 5 new candidate for membership to the company. Lena Demchenko, Kaci Iskra, Ken Buck, Rafael Ballester and Tommy Shaffer were given their first readings to the company. Ryan Sternberg was given his second reading by reciting the company oath in front of the membership. We look forward to the dedication and hard work that these new members will demonstrate during their time with the company. Good luck to you all!

2012 Begins

The volunteers from Station 37 ended the 2011 year by responding to a final total of 779 calls for service. Thank you to everyone who helped out in many different ways this past year.

2012 Company Officers

The December meeting was held and elections for 2012 were conducted. The following are the men that will lead the company in 2012.

Chief of Department- Bruce Vatter (37-C1)

Deputy Chief- Jim Paterno (37-C2)

Assistant Chief- Rich Bartolucci (37-C3)

Captain- Bill Shaffer (37-C4)

1st Lieutenant- Mike Patton (37-C5)

2nd Lieutenant- Brian Talorico (37-C6)

3rd Lieutenant- Rich Crater (37-C7)

President- Ted McCollum

Vice President- Mohammed Khashab

Treasurer- Robert Uniszkiewicz

Recording Secretary- Bruce Baran

Corresponding Secretary- Ryan Buckley
Master-at-Arms: Tony Bisignano
Trustee: Walter Ivas
Trustee: Philip Stolz
Trustee: Charles Ingraham
Trustee: Mike Majewski
Trustee: Rollin Rathbun

Congratulations to all!

Station 37 remembers NJ Assemblyman Peter Biondi

On the evening of Thursday, Nov 10, Honorary member of Hillsborough Fire Company #2, NJ State Assemblyman and Former Mayor of Hillsborough Peter Biondi passed away after a long and private battle with cancer. Mr. Biondi was an avid supporter of Station 37 bringing many laughs to the various occasions he would visit. Our sincere condolences and prayers go out to the Biondi family.

Engine takes in overturned motor vehicle

At 1400 hours on Wednesday, November 9, Stations 37, 36 fire along with EMS 79 and MICU 682 were dispatched to the intersection of Amwell Road and Auten Road in front of the High School for the overturned motor vehicle with reports of one occupant entrapped. Arrival of 66-2 (Deputy Fire Marshal Yanko) confirmed one entrapped in a vehicle rolled on its driver's side with minor injuries. Crews from 79 Rescue stabilized the vehicle and removed the patient while the Engine crew from 36-101 stretched a precautionary hand line. The crew from Engine 37-103 assisted with fluid clean up and secured the batteries to both vehicles. Units were available within an hour.

Engine takes in oven fire

At around 11am on Nov 7, the district was alerted to 23 Winding Way for the reported oven fire. Upon arrival of Car 38 (Chief Nuara, Woods Road Fire) confirmed a fire confined to the oven with no extension to the kitchen. The crews from Engine 38-104 and Engine 37-103 extinguished the gas fed fire in the oven after securing the utilities in the residence. Initial reports were that there were 8 children unable to escape the basement at the time of the call. All occupants were able to escape without any issues. Engine 37-103 deployed a dry 1.75" handling for precaution as well as utilizing the electric fan for ventilation. All units were available by noon.

Early Start to the Snow Season

On Saturday October 29, the snow started to fall at around 9:00am which started the emergency requests for assistance. The members of Station 37 ran multiple calls ranging from an overturned motor vehicle to wires down to smoke scares. Thank you to all who came out and lets keep up the good work throughout the season.

Truck Company Supports Raider Football

On Friday October 14, Tower 37 set up along side the Hillsborough High School Football Stadium to support the hometown Raiders as they took on the Warriors from Watchung Hills High School during Homecoming weekend. The bucket was overhead the fans as the Raiders defeated the Warriors 34-6.

Busy evening for the volunteers

On Wednesday October 12 starting at approximately 8:00pm, Station 37 began a 5 run marathon first handling an odor of smoke investigation on Polhemus Drive. Engine crew found a defective decorative exterior light with no problems within the residence. After clearing from that, Manville Station 42 requested Tower 37 to respond to Huff Ave in the Lost Valley Section for a reported structure fire. Within minutes, the Truck Company was cancelled. The company handled 2 more alarms following that job. At approximately 2300 hours, the station was dispatched to the area of 216 Route 206 along with 79 Rescue and MICU 682 for a motor vehicle accident with entrapment and 1 patient reported to be unconscious. Car 37 (Chief Buckley) arrived and found a single vehicle into a tree on the North Bound lane, MICU already on scene stabilizing the patient. Engine 37-103 responded with a full crew of 6. Access was gained through the passenger side and the patient was secured to a backboard and extricated with assistance from the crew of Engine 37-103. Support 37-151 responded and set up as a blocker for the responders on scene. 79 Rescue responded and took the patients to the appropriate facilities. All 37 units were available by 2345 hours.

Engine takes head on collision with medevac

On October 1 at approximately noon, station 37 was dispatched at the request of 79 Rescue for the motor vehicle accident with reported entrapment and multiple injuries in front of 60 Weston Road. 37-102 responded to the accident scene with a crew of 5 and assisted rescue crews and paramedics with patient removal and securing of both vehicles. Crews were faced with a 2-vehicle head-on MVC with 5 patients. 37-145 and 37-C7 responding to Sunnymeade School to secure the landing zone for 2 helicopters. After EMS packaged and loaded the patients, they headed to the landing zone where Atlantic Air One and NorthSTAR were awaiting their arrivals. One female patient went with Atlantic while the male went with NorthSTAR. They were flown to Robert Wood Johnson Hospital in New Brunswick. All units were available by 1300 hours.

September 11 10th Anniversary

At 10:00am on Sunday September 11, the members of the Hillsborough Fire District, Hillsborough Rescue Squad and Hillsborough Police Department gathered at Station 37's quarters to pay respects and honor the fallen police officers and firefighters that gave the ultimate sacrifice 10 years ago during the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center. The companies lined the front driveway in front of the memorial garden as Ex-Chief Wiecenski rang the memorial bell with the signal 5-5-5-5 which is the bell signal for a line of duty death. Lieutenant Taylor of the Rescue Squad lowered the flag to half-staff as the Hillsborough Police Department Honor Guard presented the colors. The names of the fallen officers were read by Police Chief Paul Kaminsky. The names of the 343 fallen firefighters were read by Lieutenant Dave Quigley of the Rescue Squad, Ex-Chief John Yanko from Manville FD, Assistant Chief Dave Foelsch from Station 36, Chief Charlie Nuara from Station 38, Ex-chief Bill Iden from Neshanic and Chief Pat Buckley from Station 37. Somerset County Police Pipes and Drums finished the ceremony with Amazing Grace. Please keep all the fallen members and civilians in your thoughts and prayers and let us never forget.

Mercer County EMT LODD (Princeton)

The members of Station 37 fire would like to extend our sympathies and condolences to the members and families of the Princeton First Aid and Rescue Squad as they mourn the tragic death of EMT/Rescue Technician Michael Kenwood. EMT Kenwood answered his last alarm on Sunday August 28, 2011 at 0437 hours during Hurricane Irene. The swiftwater rescue team was requested to the area of Rosedale Road where EMT Kenwood suffered injuries. EMT Kenwood succumbed to his injuries at University Medical Center at Princeton. Please keep his family and fellow members in your thoughts and prayers.

Hurricane Irene hits Hillsborough

The weekend of August 27th and 28th will go down in history for many as one of the most destructive weather-related events in our lives. In the late afternoon on Saturday the 27th Hurricane Irene continued it's path up the eastern seaboard and into NJ, inundating the Somerset County area with fierce winds and almost a foot of rain resulting in substantial flooding through our local area including sections of Hillsborough near the Manville and Franklin borders. The volunteers of Hillsborough Twp. Vol. Fire Co.#2, Station 37. responded to over 130 calls for assistance between 10pm on August 27th and 7am on August 30th including a small kitchen fire, a house fire, wires down, fire alarms, numerous water rescues and flooding conditions. Over 20 members of the department spent countless hours staffing 6 pieces of apparatus in shifts while living out of the station in an effort to protect and serve the residents of Hillsborough (with assistance to Manville). As life returns to normal for most of our residents, there are still areas of the township without power or even access to their homes due to floodwaters. Please keep them in your hearts and prayers as they pick up the pieces from yet another devastating flood event.

Ted gets a well deserved nap, after over thirty hours of none-stop calls during
hurricane Irene.

3+ Alarms Lights Up The Night In Hillsborough

On Friday, August 12th at 2150 hours, the Hillsborough Fire District was alerted to 3501 Richmond Ct. in 37's primary for the reported deck on fire extending into the structures. 36-C3 (Asst. Chief Foelsch) arrived within a minute and advised he had heavy fire throughout two condo units in a 3.5-story condo complex with extension to other units and possible entrapment. 37-C2 (Dep. Chief Vatter) arrived shortly thereafter, taking over command and requesting a 2nd alarm assignment on Box 37-03. Engine 37-102 arrived first-due with a crew of 5, laid in from a hydrant in the court and stretch (2) 1.75" attack lines to being knocking down the heavy fire running the outside of the structure. Engine 36-101 arrived shortly after and assisted crews from 37 with running lines up the interior stairs and beginning an interior attack on floors 3 & 4. Quint 36 and Quint 38 arrived next, setting up aerials to the roof in an attempt to vent the heavy fire in the attic areas and protect the units down from the firewalls. Truck 37 took a position in the rear of the building with their tower setup on side "C'. As the fire progressed through ceiling and attic voids over the next hour, command requested a 3rd alarm to the scene plus special calls from the 5-Alarm plan. The fire was finally placed under control by 0100 hours, and units wrapped-up on-scene by 02:15. Units on standby or at the scene: 37 (Hillsborough Fire #2), 36 (Hillsborough #1), 38 (Hillsborough Fire #3), 48 (Neshanic), 42 (Manville), 45 (Montgomery #1), 30 FAST (Finderne), 28 FAST (Millstone Valley), 26 FAST (Elizabeth Ave), 57 (Somerville), 66 (Hillsborough Fire Safety), 79 EMS (Hillsborough) and 54 EMS (Somerville). Photos below from Bill Roberts.

Minor brush fire

On August 6 at around 1430 hours, station 37 was alerted to the area by 85 Weber Ave for the reported mulch fire. Car 37 arrived and 37-C1 advised of a small grass fire approximately 30 feet from the structure that appeared to be out. 37-145 responded with a crew of 2. 1" hose reel was deployed to wet down the area and hit any further hot spots. Units were available within 15 minutes.

Mutual aid fireworks stand by

On August 5, Station 37 headed to the Finderne section of Bridgewater Township at the request of 30-A4 (Finderne Captain T. Marshall Jr.) to assist with a fireworks standby at the Somerset Patriots Ballpark. Even though the patriots lost, the crews enjoyed an excellent fireworks display after the game. Units covering were 37-102 and Car 37 with a total crew of 9 members.

Daytime Kitchen fire

On Tuesday August 2, Hillsborough District was alerted to Tudor Ct for the reported oven fire. Upon arrival of 73-3 (OEM coordinator Speciale) found an extinguished kitchen fire that generated from the microwave. According to the homeowner, her daughter noted the fire and extinguished it with a residential dry chemical extinguisher. Crews from 36-101 and 37-145 checked for any further extension and removed the stove and microwave from the residence. No extension was found and units were back in service within 30 minutes.

In house standby

On Saturday July 30, station 37 was alerted to standby at quarters while stations 36, 38 and 48 operated on a serious MVA on East Mountain Road. Command on scene advised of an overturned Dodge Ram pick up with 4 occupants inside. 3 of them requiring air medical transport. Station 37 was requested to stand by in quarters and cover the township. No further assignments came in during this incident. 37 was held in quarters for approximately 30 minutes before the MVA scene was brought under control.

Probie leaves for Basic Training

Probationary firefighter James Caudle left for Basic Training for the Army Reserve on Sunday July 17. James will be gone until December to complete his training. We wish you the best of luck on your outstanding service to our country. We know you will make us proud.

Daytime 2nd Alarm on Box 37-03

On Thursday July 7th at 1430 hrs, the Hillsborough Fire District was alerted to 2202 Jamestown Common off Wexford in 37's primary for the reported working basement fire. 37-C3 (Asst. Chief Paterno) arrived within minutes confirming heavy smoke showing from the basement of a middle-of-the-row town home and requested a second alarm on the box. Engine 37-102 was in-service with a crew of six shortly thereafter and upon arrival first-due was instructed to lay in from a nearby hydrant and stretch a preconnect to the rear door. The crew from 102 performed a quick knockdown of the dryer fire while crews from 36 and 38 assisted with overhaul, securing utilities and venting. All district units cleared the scene by 1545 hrs. Note: We wish a speedy recovery to Hillsborough Fire Marshal 66-1 who suffered second-degree burns to his hand as the result of a freak accident while deploying a Stat-X fire suppression device prior to fire apparatus arrival.

Mutual Aid Stand by

On Monday July 4, Mini pumper 37-145 ventured to Piscataway Township at the request of FF Nelson to assist in fireworks festivities. 145 rolled with a crew of 2 and enjoyed food, beverages and a fantastic show of fireworks behind the Piscataway High School on Hoes Lane. 145 returned to the township by 2300 hours.

Probie completes Fire 1

This past semester, Probationary Firefighter James Caudle completed Firefighter 1 at the Somerset County Emergency Services Training Academy. James has been going through training to become a certified firefighter from February until June. Good luck on your NJ state written exam!

Early Morning 2nd Alarm on Box 37-04

During a brutal storm at 0325 hrs on 6/17, Somerset County Communications alerted the Hillsborough Fire District and EMS-79 to the residence across from 48 Bloomingdale Drive for a reported smoke condition in the dwelling after a possible lightning strike. Arrival of Car 37 (Chief Buckley) noted smoke issuing from the eves of a 2-story condominium with fire showing in the attic. A 2nd alarm was quickly transmitted on the Box. Engine 37-102 arrived first-due with a crew of 7 and stretched (2) 1.75" preconnect lines for primary investigation and fire attack to Division 2 and backup. Fire was found in the attic with a significant smoke condition throughout the 2nd floor of the residence. The fire was quickly knocked and held in the attic space. Overhaul proved no further extension in the residence. Additional units on scene included stations 36, 38, 42 truck, 30 FAST, 28 FAST, 48 engine, Somerset County Fire Coordinator 99A, Hillsborough OEM, Rehab/EMS 79. Units cleared by 0500 and scene was turned over to Township Fire Safety for origin and investigation.

2nd Alarm on Gemini Drive (Box 37-04)

At approx 0325 hours on June 8th the Hillsborough Fire District was alerted to 287 Gemini Dr. in 37's primary for the fire in the ceiling. Upon arrival of Hillsborough PD it was upgraded to a working fire that was extending into the attic of a 2.5-story townhouse. The incident was quickly upgraded to a 2nd alarm on Box 37-04 bringing in mutual aid from Montgomery, Manville, Neshanic and Millstone Valley. Arriving chief officers found a fire in a 2nd floor bathroom fan that was extinguished by PD w/some extension into the attic area. First-arriving Engine 37-102's crew deployed an uncharged attack line and then went to work on the 2nd floor and attic to check for extension and hit some hotspots, while crews from Engine 36-101 and Quint 38-118 worked on securing utilities, throwing ladders and mechanical ventilation. Station 37 responded with Engine 37-102, Engine 37-103, Mini-Pumper 37-145, Support 37-151 and Car 37. 37-C1 (Chief Buckley) had the Command and 37-C2 (DC Vatter) had Operations. All 37 units cleared the scene by 0430 hrs.

Engine takes in afternoon MVA

At 1447 hours on June 7th, Stations 37 and 36 fire along with 79 Rescue and MICU 682 were dispatched in front of the Amwell Mall @ 450 Amwell Road for the MVA with reported entrapment and 1 patient semi-conscious. Engine 37-103 responded with a full crew and assisted with securing both vehicles. Support 37-151 responded with a crew of 3. There was no entrapment on arrival of EMS/Rescue units. 1 patient was transported to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick. 37-C2 (DC Vatter) had the Command, and all 37 units went back in service by 1515 hours.

Engine on 2nd Alarm in Manville

At approx 0055 hrs on June 7th, Station 37 was requested for an engine and truck into Manville on the 2nd alarm assignment to assist Station 42 (Manville) with a structure fire at 1115 Gress St. Due to Tower 37-116 being OOS for repairs, Quint 36-116 was requested as well. The engine went responding with 6 members, with 37-C1 (Chief Buckley) and 37-C3 (A/C Paterno) on the scene. Station 42 firefighters had heavy fire on arrival from the upstairs of a 1.5-story Cape Cod style house but were able to quickly knock it down.Upon arrival crews assisted in opening up and checking for extension. All 37 units cleared the scene by 0230 hrs.

Medevac landing for burn patient

On the evening of Saturday May 28, Station 37 was alerted to the area behind the old Cost Cutters store for a reported dumpster fire. 37-C3 (AC Paterno) arrived and confirmed a smoldering fire in the dumpster. Engine 37-103 arrived and extinguished the fire. While securing, 79 Rescue requested the station to set up a landing zone for a burn patient. 37-C3 responded and requested station 36 for assistance. EMS 79 and MICU 683 were treating a patient that received facial burns from an outdoor grill that flashed on him. Station 36 was cancelled and Station 42 responded to assist due to proximity. Engine 103 signed on and responded to close down Route 206 by Dukes Parkway West. NorthRSTAmedevac landed and care was transferred to the flight crew with a destination of St. Barnabas Burn Center in Livingston.

Deuce update

37-155 is back from Great Dane with an outstanding new paint job and gold leaf lettering. Members of the station spent countless hours this week getting it ready to be parade ready by mounting a new light bar and making a few cosmetic improvements. We would like to thank Bob Wiecenski, Pat Buckley, Bruce Vatter, Brian Talorico, Jim Paterno and Phil Embroscia on spending the time to make the truck presentable. We would also like to thank Anthony Tomae for the purchase of the LED light bar.

Overturned vehicle with Medevac landing

On Thursday May 26 at 1504 hours, stations 37/36 fire along with 79 Rescue were alerted to Route 206 and Old Somerville Road for the overturned motor vehicle. Upon arrival of Fire Marshal 66-4 (Foelsch) confirmed a vehicle on its driver side with entrapment. MICU 682 arrived and requested air medical response. Station 37 responded to the scene with Engine 37-103 and Support 37-151. 37-C4 and Mini pumper 37-145 secured the landing zone. Crews from 37-103 stretcher a 1.75" suppression line while the crew from 37-151 assisted with stabilization of the vehicle and removal of brush and tree limbs. Patient was extricated and stabilized by EMS personel on scene and transported to the landing zone. NorthSTAR medevac took care of the patient with a destination of Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital-New Brunswick. Units on scene were Engine 37-103, Support 37-151, Chief Fire Marshal 66-1, Engine 36-101, Quint 36-115, Engine 38-104, Hillsborough PD, 79 Rescue, 37-145 at landing zone and Brush 37-141 for traffic support.

Educating High School seniors about Drinking and Driving

During the school hours of May 12, Hillsborough High School conducted the Every 15 Minutes Program. This program is a nationwide awareness program geared towards high school juniors and seniors and let's them experience the after affects of drinking and driving with the phrase "Every 15 minutes, someone dies from an alcohol related accident." Throughout the school day, student were removed from class and played the part of the living dead to simulate being involved and dying in an alcohol related accident. At 1245, Station 37 participated with 79 Rescue in the mock accident scene where 4 student are involved in an alcohol related motor vehicle accident. Engine 37-103 and Mini-pumper 37-145 responded with a total of 8. Engine 103 arrived and stretched a 1.75" precautionary line while the Rescue Techs from 79 removed the roof from the vehicle and treated the patients. 37-145 secured a landing zone for NorthStar on the soccer fields. The crew from Engine 103 assisted the director from Hillsborough Funeral Home load the fatality into the hearse to show the Senior class that serious consequences do occur when you choose to drink and drive.

The members of Station 37 would like to extend their thanks to the Hillsborough High School for allowing us to participate in a very worthwhile cause. We would also like to congratulate High School Junior Regina Santangelo as she was the program coordinator, conducting this program for her Girl Scout Gold Award. Everyone at the firehouse wishes you the very best and an excellent job was done.

Engine responds for MVA/truck fire

On May 3 at 1546 hours, 36/37 fire, 79 Rescue were dispatched to Route 206 north of Valley Road for a motor vehicle accident with a reported truck fire. 36-C1 arrived on scene with a 2 vehicle head on collision, 1 truck with a well involved engine/passenger compartment. Engine 36-101 arrived and led off with 1.75" attack line and started the knock on the fire while Engine 37-103 connected a 3" supply line to Engine 36. Crews from 36 extinguished the truck. All companies were available by 1620 hours.

Engine requested into Manville

For the second time in 5 days, on May 3 at 1254 hours, Station 37 was requested in Manville for the working structure fire. Arriving Manville units were faced with a 1 story dwelling with heavy fire in the garage extending into the residence. Engine 37-102 responded with 4 members and was initially assigned to stage and standby for any additional calls in Manville. Command eventually requested the Engine crew to utilize the CAFS system. Engine 37 crews deployed 2 lines, 1 to the A side and 1 to the D side to coat the structure in CAFS. (Compress Air Foam System) Crews worked for approximately 40 minutes. Also responding was Engine 36-101 which ended up as the 2nd due FAST, 37-C2 and 37-C3. Units were back in service by 1430 hours.

Engine and Truck take Manville job

On Thursday April 28, at approx 1930 hours, Station 37 was requested into the borough of Manville for 1 engine and 1 truck for a working structure fire. 37-102 arrived and crews were put to work with Manville crews. First due companies were faced with a heavy smoke condition in the residence with a working fire in the attic space of a 2 story single family wood frame residence. Fire had run its course throughout the attic coming through the roof. 42 Truck was set up on the A side conducting suppression. Additional attack lines were stretcher for exposure control. 37-116 was assigned to cover the borough along with Somerville crews. All 37 units were secured by 2200 hours.

Working Fire in Abandoned Warehouse (again...)

On Sunday February 27th at 2230, Station 37 was dispatched to the area of 111 Old Camplain Rd. for a report of smoke in the area. 37-C1 (Buckley) arrived on-scene with a strong odor, and during a 360 of the abandoned warehouse found smoke pushing from the eaves of the 1-story office addition. This location has been the site of three other fires during the last year. A district alarm was requested, along with mutual aid from Station 42 (Manville) and Station 30 (Finderne) for the FAST team. Engine 37-103 arrived on-scene first, forced entry through the fencing, laid a supply line to the A/D corner of the structure and began working to force entry into the building. As additional units arrived they concentrated on forcing entry through the numerous wood-covered windows and doors and getting attack lines stretched. Command quickly pulled all units from the building due to deteriorating structural conditions and collier's mansion conditions inside. After significant work with gaining access to the building using demolition saws, echo saws and plasma torches, units finally were able to find numerous small fires in the building that were quickly extinguished. Crews spent the next hour opening up sections of the roof above each of the fires and taking care of smoldering areas. All units cleared the scene by 0130 hrs. 37-C1 (Buckley) had command, 37-C2 (Vatter) had Side A operations, 36-C1 (Weslowski) had Side C operations. Units on-scene: Station 37 (Hillsborough #2), Station 36 (Hillsborough #1), Station 38 (Hillsborough #3), Station 42 (Manville), Station 30 FAST (Finderne), Station 79 EMS (Hillsborough), Hillsborough Division of Fire Safety and the Somerset County Mutual Aid Coordinators

Another busy week

On Wednesday February 16th, while units from 37 and 38 were at an activated alarm in 38's primary, all district units were alerted at 1600 hrs to 34 Anne St. in 37's primary for the chimney fire. Quint 38-118 arrived first and took a position in the driveway with their stick to the roof while Engine 37-103 and Truck 37-116 took the front of the structure Crews from 37 vented the house, checked for extension and performed roof ops using 38's Quint. Command quickly held the assignment to the units from 37 and 38 and command was terminated by 1640 hrs. 36-C1 (Weslowski) had the command and 37-C2 (Vatter) had operations. The following morning on Thursday February 17th at 0605 hrs, the Hillsborough Fire District was alerted to 7 Gulick Ct. in 37's primary for the reported bathroom on fire. 37-C1 (Buckley) established command and upon investigation found a small extinguished fire involving linens on the 2nd floor. Command held the assignment to Quint 36-115 and units from Station 37 were held in quarters. On Saturday, February 20th at 2240 hrs the Hillsborough Fire District was dispatched to 52 Nostrand Rd. in 37's primary for the reported garage fire. Due to the proximity of the address to the border of Manville, Station 42 was automatically dispatched on the call. Engine 37-102 was on the road in minutes with a full crew, and units from 37 and 42 arrived to find a small fire in the corner of the attached garage with smoke throughout the house. The crew from Engine 37-102 assumed truck company duties on-scene: opening up the wall in the garage, securing utilities, forcing entry into the house, searches and venting. 36-C1 (Weslowski) had the command and 37-C3 (Paterno) had operations. All units cleared the scene by 0005 hrs.

Busy start to the week

Station 37 started out the week with a total of 6 runs today, 3 of them being district responses for reported structure fires. The first one came in a little after 5:00am for the reported basement fire at 687 Dover Ct. in 37's primary. Arriving units found an extinguished fire in the furnace. No extension was found but there was significant charring of the wires and area around the furnace. After 2 more runs, the district was alerting to 15 Collins Dr. in 38's primary for the reported kitchen fire. The fire was contained to a coffee maker and the surrounding areas, and Engine 37-102 was canceled en route while companies from 38 and 36 ventilated after the homeowner knocked down the fire. Station 37 handled 2 more runs before being sent to Sharp Dr. in 37's primary for the smoke in the kitchen. 37-C1 arrived and found no problem. Units were held in quarters and soon secured by the Chief.

Brother FF from Asbury Park, NJ Severely Injured

Asbury Park, NJ firefighter Jason Fazio remains in critical condition at St. Barnabas Burn Center in Livingston, NJ after sustaining injuries yesterday at a 3-alarm blaze on Main Street. FF Fazio, a 17-year veteran of the department, was performing a search for victims when he was caught in a flashover that forced him to save himself by jumping out of a second floor window. He has several fractures and serious burns as a result of the incident. Please keep Jason in your thoughts, minds and prayers. This progression of pictures show just how quickly things can turn bad: http://tinyurl.com/4byr6ey

First Structure Fire of the Year

On Wednesday, January 5th at 1137 hours, the Hillsborough Fire District was dispatched to 103 Perrine Pike in Station 37's primary area for the reported dryer fire. PD arrived on location within minutes confirming a working basement fire. Engine 36-101 arrived first and led off with a pre-connect into the basement while Engine 37-103 laid in from the hydrant and prepared a backup line. Crews got the fire knocked within minutes, vented and checked for extension in the basement area. All units were released by 1230 hrs when units from 36 & 37 were dispatched to a struck gas line on Beekman Rd. in 36's primary.

Station 37 Volunteers Run 647 calls in 2010

For the year 2010, the volunteers of Station 37 ran 647 fire-related calls for service, maintaining us as one of the busiest volunteer companies in Somerset County, NJ. Thank you to our members for their continued dedication to protecting the residents of Hillsborough Twp.

Engine and Truck into Manville

On Tuesday December 27th at 1813 hours, Station 37 was requested into Manville with an engine and truck for a structure fire at 141 North 5th Ave. Engine 37-102, Truck 37-116 and Car 37 were on the road in minutes with 13 members. Manville got a quick knock on the fire, and 37 units were cleared of the scene by 1840 hrs.

Afternoon 2nd alarm

On Tuesday December 21 at 1206 hours Stations 37/38 were alerted to #63 Chandler Ct for the reported smoke in the area. As 103 was returning from a run at Amsterdam School, the Engine marked up and was advised by County that it is being upgraded to a district response with smoke in the residence and the correct address was 54 Chandler Court. Engine 37-103 responded with a crew of 5 and found heavy smoke from the front door and windows of a 2 story single family residence. A 2nd alarm was requested along with a RITeam. An 1.75" preconnect was stretched and crews found heavy fire conditions in the living room on the first floor. Primary searches were conducted and proved negative. Ventilation was done and overhaul was in progress showing no extension to the second floor or surrounding homes. 37-C2 (DC Vatter) had command and 66-1 (Chief Fire Marshal Weniger) had operations. Station 37 responded with Engine 37-103, Tower 37-116, Engine 37-102 and Support 37-151. Additional companies included 36 (Flagtown), 38 (Woods Road), 48 (Neshanic), 42 (Manville), 45 (Montgomery #1) and 30 FAST (Finderne FAST) and 79 Rescue. Cause and origin is under investigation by the Township Fire Safety Bureau.

Busy Friday

Friday December 17th was busy for the volunteers of Station 37, who responded to 6 calls throughout the day. Starting with 37-102 transferring on the 2nd alarm cover assignment for Station 46 at 0620 hrs, units also handled a MVC w/rollover and wires down on River Rd at Roycefield Rd in 36's primary at 0710 hrs and 37-103 and C-3 took in a dumpster fire w/exposure on Camplain Rd in 37's primary at 1000 hrs. Then at 1815 hrs Car 37, 37-103 and 37-145 established a landing zone for Northstar Medivac to transport a pedestrian struck on Route 206 w/serious injuries. Shortly afterwards at 1947 hrs the District and Station 42 (Manville) were alerted to 200 Dukes Parkway East in 37's primary for the reported oven fire w/possible extension. 36-C1 established command and scaled the assignment back to just 37-102. While returning from that assignment at 2010 hrs, Car 37, 37-102, 37-145 and 37-116 responded to a vacant building at 838 Route 206 for the water problem affecting utilities. Units secured the utilities and cleared the scene by 2040 hrs to end the day's activities.

Montgomery Cover Assignment

On the morning of Friday December 17 at approx 0620 hrs, Station 37 was requested to stand by the quarters of Station 46 (Montgomery #2) while units from Montgomery and Rocky Hill operated on a 2nd Alarm residential structure fire at 49 Bedens Brook Rd. Engine 37-102 responded with a crew of four and stood by with Engine 38-104 (Woods Road) and Mercer County Telesquirt 23 (Lawrenceville). Stand by units were secured at 1040.

Head-on Collision on Amwell Road

On Tuesday December 14 at 0933 hours, Stations 37 and 38 along with 79 Rescue and Medic 682 were alerted to the area of 256 Amwell Road for the head-on collision with reported entrapment, one patient reported to be unconscious. Upon the arrival of PD it was confirmed that one patient was in the vehicle in cardiac arrest, and members from 79 conducted a rapid extrication and started CPR immediately. 37-C2 and C3 arrived on scene with C2 establishing command. Engine 37-103 and Support 37-151 responded with 7 members. 151 assisted with traffic details while the Engine company assisted with fluid clean up. Units from 37 were available within 30 minutes.

District for the Smoke Condition

On Friday December 10 at 1845, the district was sent to 15 Wescott Road for the reported smoke condition in the utility room. 37-103 responded with a crew of 5 and command (36-C2) advised a minor smoke condition in the residence. Ventilation was conducted and units were available within 30 minutes.

District response for chimney fire

On Thursday December 9 at approximately 2130 hours, the district was dispatched to 847 Amwell Road for the reported chimney fire. Arrival of 48-C6 confirmed a working fire in the chimney. Crews from Ladder 36-115 and Engine 36-101 conducted the investigation and found no extension to the structure. Station 37 responded with Tower 37-116 and Support Unit 37-151 with a total of 10 members. Units were cleared within 30 minutes.

Surprise District Drill at Aeropres

On Wednesday December 8 at 1910 hours, County Communications alerted the district for a reported gas alarm at the Aeropres facility on Valley Road. Also notifying all companies that this was a drill. Engine 37-102 responded with a crew of 5. Units practiced protocols involving a hazardous gas leak including metering the area, proper PPE (Personal Protection Equipment), hose deployment and area searches. The evolution was concluded within 45 minutes.

T-Bone collision on Amwell Road

On Saturday November 27 at approx 1400 hours, station 37 was alerted along with 79 Rescue and Medic 682 to Amwell Road in front of Hillsborough Elementary for the motor vehicle accident with reported entrapment. Car 37 and 37-C2 arrived and advised a t-bone accident with 1 patient requiring a door pop. Medic 682 requested air medical to be flown and 37 was to secure a landing zone. Upon assessment of the patient, it was determined that air medical was not necessary and was cancelled. Engine 37-103 and TSU ( Tactical Support Unit) 37-151 responded to assist with traffic control while Rescue Techs from 79 did the extrication and packaging of the patient. All patients were treated and transported to Somerset Medical Center. 37 units were secured within 30 minutes.

Thanksgiving Rollovers

Station 37 started the holiday early Thursday morning with an overturned van on Millstone River Road. Dispatched at approx 0400, Car 37 arrived to find a van on its passenger side with the driver out of the vehicle. A second rollover was dispatched at approximately 1230 that afternoon on "Fisher's Curve" on New Center Road. Car 37 arrived to find a PT cruiser that had completely rolled over but was upright. Engine 36 crew secured the car and units were cleared within 30 minutes.

Small Bathroom Fire in 36's Primary

On Monday November 22nd at 2303 hrs, the Hillsborough Fire District was alerted to 13 Deer Path in 36's primary for the reported possible structure fire with PD on location and smoke coming from under the door. Station 37 responded with Engines 102, 103 and Car 37 with 14 personnel. The fire was knocked down quickly by PD and units vented the structure and checked for extension in the walls and ceiling areas. All units cleared the scene by 0015 hrs.

Adding Visibility and Safety to our Apparatus

37-C1 and other members of the company have spent considerable time in the past few weeks to install NFPA colored striping on the rear of our apparatus to increase visibility for other drivers and also make operating scenes safer for our personnel.

Engine Transfers to Franklin Dist. 1

On November 18 at approx 1700 hours, Station 37 was requested to transfer an engine to Station 44 (Middlebush) in Franklin District 1 while most of the township was operating on 2 separate structure fires. Engine 37-102 responded to the request with a crew of 7. The crew stood by in quarters for approximately 2 hours before taking a CO alarm activation with Station 31 fire (Franklin Park) in District 2's primary. Engine returned to quarters by 2100 hours.

Attic Fire on Gabriel Ct.

At 2320 hrs on October 11th, Station 37 was dispatched to 114 Gabriel Ct. for the odor of smoke inside the residence with a crackling sound coming from behind the walls, possibly from a lightning strike. 37-C2 (Deputy Chief Vatter) arrived on-scene within minutes confirming a working attic fire with smoke showing from the roof line, upgrading the assignment to a working structure fire and requesting the district response as well as a FAST team (Firefighter Assist and Search Team) from Station 30 (Finderne). Engine 37-102 arrived minutes later, laid it's own supply line and stretched a 1.75" hand line into the structure to begin a quick knockdown. Truck 37-116 arrived next and setup for roof ops while Quint 38-118 stood by as the temporary FAST team and Quint 36-115's crew assisted with overhaul and checking for extension. Station 42 (Manville) was special-called to the scene for manpower after the fire was under control. The fire was knocked within 10 minutes but crews remained on-scene for two hours checking for extension. 37-C2 (Deputy Chief Vatter) had the command, 37-C3 (Asst. Chief Paterno) had operations. Units on-scene or on standby: Station 37 (Hillsborough #2), Station 36 (Hillsborough #1), Station 38 (Hillsborough #3), Station 48 (Neshanic), Station 42 (Manville), Station 45 (Montgomery #1), Station 30 (FAST), Station 79 (Hillsborough EMS) and Hillsborough Division of Fire Safety.

Quint =

A quintuple combination pumper or quint is a fire service apparatus that serves the dual purpose of an engine and a ladder truck. The name quint is derived from the Latin prefix quinque-, meaning five, and refers to the five functions that a quint provides: pump, water tank, fire hose, aerial device, and ground ladders.

District represents at Cancer Walk

On the morning of Sept 26, members from the district gathered at Johnson Park in Piscataway, hundreds of yards away from Rutgers Stadium, to walk in honor and memory of Ex-Chief Ingraham's daughter, Tatiana. Tatiana was taken from us 4 years ago after a long battle with leukemia at the age of 18. Members formed "Tatiana's FAST Team" and walked the 2 miles around the park. Thank you to all who came out.

Unattended Cooking at Garden Apartments

On Sept 24 at 1541 hours, the district was alerted to 175 Capricorn Drive Apt #13 for the reported fire. County Comm advised callers stating smoke is showing from the given apartment. Arrival of 66-1 (Chief FM Weniger) advised nothing showing from side "A". Update advised careless cooking in the kitchen. Ladder 36-115, Engine 37-102 and Mini-engine 37-145 provided ventilation and checked for further extension. Only extension found was to the cook top and a minor part of the counter top. All units were available within 30 minutes.

2nd Alarm House Fire on Taylor Ave.

And the fires just keep coming....on Monday, September 20th at 0913 hours, the district tone was dropped for a reported structure fire at 142 Taylor Ave. Upon arrival of Car 36 (Flagtown Chief Wesolowski) he advised smoke showing from the A/B corner of a 2-story single family dwelling. The fire was found to be involving an electrical panel with some extension to the residence. The FAST Team was requested on Box 37-01 which brought in Station 30 FAST (Finderne), with the 2nd alarm requested shortly thereafter as the fire spread across side A. Command advised fire was found on Division 1 in the A/B corner with extension to Division 2. Interior crews from 36 & 37 made a quick stop and all-hands were utilized for extensive overhaul. Further investigation showed fire was found outside the attic in the rear sector. All visible fire was extinguished within an hour and all units remained on scene for overhaul for approx another hour. Stations dispatched to the scene or for covers were Stations 37 (Hillsborough #2), 36 (Hillsborough #1), 38 (Hillsborough #3), 48 (Neshanic), 30 FAST (Finderne), 42 (Manville), 57 (Somerville), 28 (Millstone Valley) and 45 (Montgomery #1).

2nd Alarm on the Warehouse Fire

On September 17th at approx 1945 hours, the Hillsborough Fire District was dispatched to the area behind STS on Camplain Road for the reported structure fire. Upon arrival of Car 36 (Flagtown Chief Wesolowski), he reported a working fire in the abandoned warehouse that the district has been to for fires twice in the past week. A FAST Team from Station 28 (Millstone Valley) was requested off box 37-01, followed shortly thereafter by a 2nd alarm assignment. Defensive operations were put into action due to the building type and no occupancy load, and the fire was brought under control in under an hour. Companies working or standing by were Station 37 (Hillsborough #2), Station 36 (Hillsborough #1), Station 38 (Hillsborough #3), Station 48 (Neshanic), Station 42 (Manville), Station 57 (Somerville), Station 26 (Elizabeth Ave), Station 28 (Millstone Valley), Station 45 (Montgomery), and Station 79 (Hillsborough EMS). The cause if the blaze is being investigated by Hillsborough Township Division of Fire Safety and the Hillsborough Police Dept.

Reported warehouse fire

On Tuesday September 14 at approx 1845 hours, the district was alerted to the area of Old Camplain and Camplain roads for reported of smoke and fire coming from the first floor of a warehouse. Arrival of Car 37 and investigation by 36-C2 showed a small 3x3 rubbish fire in an open area of an abandoned warehouse. Engine 37-102 stretcher an 1.75" attack line and knocked the fire down. This is the 3rd time in 2 months the company has had unattended "bonfires" in the warehouse. All companies were clear within 20 minutes.

2nd Alarm House Fire

On Monday September 13th, the Hillsborough Fire District was dispatched to 1334 Orchard Dr. in 36's primary for the reported structure fire with multiple calls being received. Based on that information Asst. Chief 36-C2 (Decicco) requested Station 30 (Finderne) for the FAST team, and upon his arrival shortly thereafter found a fully-involved 2.5-story farmhouse with a minor exposure problem. Based on the location of the fire being in a non-hydranted area, a 2nd alarm was requested on Box 3637 along with the tanker task force. Due to the degree of fire involvement, a defensive attack was initiated. Station 37 responded with Engine 37-102, Truck 37-116, Mini-Pumper 37-145, Support Unit 37-151 and 16 personnel. Crews went to work stretching additional attack lines and assisting with fire suppression, exposure protection and overhaul. 36-C2 (Decicco): Commanding Officer, 36-C3 (Folsch): Operations Officer, 38-C1 (Nuara): Staging Officer, 48-C2 (CJ): Accountability Officer, 37-C2 (Vatter): Water Supply Officer. All Station 37 units were clear by 2230 hrs.

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