2020 and Beyond
January 17, 2020: Plans are in the works for a new Engine 3 pumper with foam capabilities.
February 1, 2020: HazMat 1 enters service using the refurbished Rescue 2 truck. It is assigned to Engine 3 at Lakeview Firehouse (not a full time unit)
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February 25, 2020: Demolition training with new PFD equipment
February 24, 2020: PFD appoints 33 new firefighters including 2 women
Mayor Sayegh with FF Ashley Sanchez and Mishynn Squire
April 2-3, 2020: PFD Headquarters becomes a COVD Testing Center
Chief McDermott
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April 1, 2020: NY Times article on PFD and COVID Crisis
April 5, 2020: Palm Sunday - PFD, PPD and other FD pay tribute to SJH COVID workers Ron Bombaro video
April 11, 2020: Paterson Fire hitting record daily call volume. It is taxing for our EMT’s that have been handling every call with such professionalism and dedication. PFD reached out through the State for some crews to augment EMS staff, and Steve Besselman, Justin Ingles, and Zack Wilson from Midwest Medical Columbus Ohio answered the call.
Lakeview Firehouse
April 12, 2020: PFD paid its heartfelt respects at for PPD motorcycle patrolman LODD (COVID) Frank Scorpo - Ladder 1 and 2 used to display flag
Ladder Trucks outside Paterson's Municipal Building
Director Speciale at the right with mask
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April 29, 2020: PFD issues the following thank you, re the COVID Pandemic on its Department Facebook site
June 1, 2020: Chief McDermott reports all firehouses will have truck exhaust systems in house by end of August. Regarding the Central OEM/Dispatch Building, the chief has met with thearchitect. IIt will take 3-4 months for initial build, then 2 months for PFD implemnentation meaning 6 months total to open
A new Ferrara pumper has been ordered for Engine 3
A new Ferrara pumper has been ordered for Engine 3
July 2, 2020: Rank of Assistant Chief is re-established with promotion of D/C Gabe Aboyoun who was appointed May 18, 1992
Gabriel Abouyan
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Mayor Sayegh, Chief McDermott, Director Speziale, A/C Aboyoun
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August 19, 2020: A/C Gabriel Aboyoun passes away
1st Responder News October 2020
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September, 2020: Upon the passing of Assistant Chief Gabe Aboyoun, Battalion Chief Michael Caposella promoted to provisional Deputy Chief |
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September 11, 2020: Memorial
1st Responder News November 2020
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Typo: It is B/C Bradle & Macones - 1st Responder News November 2020
October 2020: All firefighters will be given access to the "shotspotter" system. It sends a text whenever a gunshot is fired in the City.
November 12, 2020: PFD and Office of Emergency Management were blessed by Bank of America with 74,000 surgical masks and 400 hand sanitizer pumps which will be dispersed to seniors and the underserved population.
F/F Troy Ayers at left and Chief McDermott at right
December 2020: PFD launched a program that allows for property owners and fire inspectors to utilize smartphone technology to remotely perform an inspection. The team led by Captain Herbert Eggers is made up of eight full-time inspectors and two part-time inspectors, is the first department in the state to offer it.
December 19, 2020: Daughter of retired Captain Larry Franklin sworn into PPD
Herald
April 16, 2020: COVID EMS unit photo
December 28, 2020: Paterson Firefighters are among first to receive COVID Vaccine
Captain Bill MacDonald E7 Tour 4
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Chief Brian McDermott
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January 1, 2021: A powerful photo of Paterson Fire in action during the pandemic makes the globally read NY Times “year in pictures; 2020”. CLICK HERE
January 11, 2021: New Ferrara apparatus for Engine 3 arrives in Paterson
At Headquarters with Chief McDermott
January 26, 2021: Chief McDermott gets his second COVID vaccination
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February 1, 2021: Promotions: 3 Deputy Chiefs, 4 Battalion Chiefs, 9 Captains. As the number of promotions exceed the civil service lists, the 3 DC’s and 2 of the BC’s will be provisional appointments. This includes the 1st ever Director of Communications and Chief of Communications (both promoted from ranks of dispatchers).
With these promotions Communications will have a Director, Chief, 10 supervisors, 4 Seniors and 32 dispatchers.
On the first day of black history month PFD will have its first black Deputy Chief and first black female Director of Communications
Twenty five new firefighters will start roughly on March 1, 2021.
Ten fire inspectors are moved to title of Fire Marshals
Renovations planned for Riverside and Northside firehouses. All firehouses now have direct diesel exhaust hoses on slides made by Plymovent. All firehouses now have high tech ion filters. This emits heavy ions into the air that latch on to particles like COVID and drop them to the ground. Since this will cause more dirt 3 more Zamboni walk behind floor cleaners are on order. The decon station at Lakeview has the 1st of its kind super CFM ion fan.
With these promotions Communications will have a Director, Chief, 10 supervisors, 4 Seniors and 32 dispatchers.
On the first day of black history month PFD will have its first black Deputy Chief and first black female Director of Communications
Twenty five new firefighters will start roughly on March 1, 2021.
Ten fire inspectors are moved to title of Fire Marshals
Renovations planned for Riverside and Northside firehouses. All firehouses now have direct diesel exhaust hoses on slides made by Plymovent. All firehouses now have high tech ion filters. This emits heavy ions into the air that latch on to particles like COVID and drop them to the ground. Since this will cause more dirt 3 more Zamboni walk behind floor cleaners are on order. The decon station at Lakeview has the 1st of its kind super CFM ion fan.
April 10, 2021: Story published about some of the siblings on PFD, including the first sister/brother combination Johanna and Jesus Ramirez. Siblings not permitted to work on the same company.
Johanna and Jesus Ramirez -
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Captain Isaac and brother Ralph Feliciano
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Other siblings currently on job are: Firefighters Kelly & Charlayne Powell
Deputy Chief Alejandro Alicea and Firefighter Leandro Alicea
Captain Steve Crampton and Firefighter Frank Crampton
Captain John Howe & Captain Tyshawn Hawkins
Firefighters Ryan Graf & Michael Graf
Firefighters Nicholas & Matthew Poggi
Captain John Mauro & Captain Michael Mauro
eputy Chief Charles Gander Jr. and Captain Thomas R Gander
Deputy Chief Alejandro Alicea and Firefighter Leandro Alicea
Captain Steve Crampton and Firefighter Frank Crampton
Captain John Howe & Captain Tyshawn Hawkins
Firefighters Ryan Graf & Michael Graf
Firefighters Nicholas & Matthew Poggi
Captain John Mauro & Captain Michael Mauro
eputy Chief Charles Gander Jr. and Captain Thomas R Gander
April 13, 2021: PFD plans and updates
1. First PFD all electric vehicles (the Mustang Mach E) to be ordered.
2. New Communications and Dispatch (CAD) goes live 6/15. The New building construction is in full swing.
3. Three new ambulances may be ordered in May. All current ambulances now have UVC lights fix mounted.
4. All firehouses now have direct capture diesel exhaust system which are to go live in two weeks or so.
5. 465 new portable radios are in. Gonna be going live in a month or so.
6. Hillcrest Firehouse is getting a new roof which opens for bids in a couple weeks.
7. New RAC Unit design is in
8. Chief McDermott is a NJ Reentry Ambassador to help people exiting prison to avoid recidivism and be more productive.
9. 27 new recruits in the academy, including some legacies.
10. Installing compressed air systems in all houses. Has high particle spray gun for decontaminate, a blow stick and a tire fill for tires and water can refill.
11. Ordering new Car 9. Probably an F150 matching Car 6, the arson gig.
12. All numbers on ambulances will be removed and replaced with removable high reflective placards. Renumbering ambulances will be 1-12. Recently ambulances just never stay in the same spot, so frequently they are not in a bus that has their number.
13. Cryonite being ordered. It’s a CO2 system that freezes bedbugs which are an issue in the City.
14. PFD now does mobile vaccination in concert with a Nurse.
15. New USAR tools coming in. Have received all new rope and new hydraulic tools. The HazMat now has a full complement of rescue tools. The Rescue task force is R2, E6, E3 acting HazMat, RAC, Batt-1 and Car-4. DC Gander is in charge.
16. Fire Marshals and several firefighters are in Arson school.
17. The demolition program is restarting now.
18. An OSHA rep noted the thoroughness of the documented confined space rescue program
19. The Shop construction is completed and all City vehicles roll through daily. Looks awesome. New quiet air compressor and its piped all over. Also put diesel exhaust there too.
All COVID changes are in place: PPE, Ion filters, epoxy flooring, blood gear, sprayers, UV-C lights, thermal cameras, laptops, a Huge schools supplies order, and the list goes on. The electric stretchers are by far the biggest hit with members. LUCAS devices saved multiple lives.
2. New Communications and Dispatch (CAD) goes live 6/15. The New building construction is in full swing.
3. Three new ambulances may be ordered in May. All current ambulances now have UVC lights fix mounted.
4. All firehouses now have direct capture diesel exhaust system which are to go live in two weeks or so.
5. 465 new portable radios are in. Gonna be going live in a month or so.
6. Hillcrest Firehouse is getting a new roof which opens for bids in a couple weeks.
7. New RAC Unit design is in
8. Chief McDermott is a NJ Reentry Ambassador to help people exiting prison to avoid recidivism and be more productive.
9. 27 new recruits in the academy, including some legacies.
10. Installing compressed air systems in all houses. Has high particle spray gun for decontaminate, a blow stick and a tire fill for tires and water can refill.
11. Ordering new Car 9. Probably an F150 matching Car 6, the arson gig.
12. All numbers on ambulances will be removed and replaced with removable high reflective placards. Renumbering ambulances will be 1-12. Recently ambulances just never stay in the same spot, so frequently they are not in a bus that has their number.
13. Cryonite being ordered. It’s a CO2 system that freezes bedbugs which are an issue in the City.
14. PFD now does mobile vaccination in concert with a Nurse.
15. New USAR tools coming in. Have received all new rope and new hydraulic tools. The HazMat now has a full complement of rescue tools. The Rescue task force is R2, E6, E3 acting HazMat, RAC, Batt-1 and Car-4. DC Gander is in charge.
16. Fire Marshals and several firefighters are in Arson school.
17. The demolition program is restarting now.
18. An OSHA rep noted the thoroughness of the documented confined space rescue program
19. The Shop construction is completed and all City vehicles roll through daily. Looks awesome. New quiet air compressor and its piped all over. Also put diesel exhaust there too.
All COVID changes are in place: PPE, Ion filters, epoxy flooring, blood gear, sprayers, UV-C lights, thermal cameras, laptops, a Huge schools supplies order, and the list goes on. The electric stretchers are by far the biggest hit with members. LUCAS devices saved multiple lives.
April 17, 2021: PFD is getting their former 2005 E-One Tiller back. It is refurbished and has black over red coloring. For accountability reasons, Spare Ladder (SL) trucks are getting a number in sequence and no longer referred to using SL numbers. They will still act as they are assigned.
2004 E-One Rear mount: Truck Co. #4.
2005 E-One Mid mount tower: Ladder Co. #5
2005 E-One Tiller: Ladder Co. #6
2004 E-One Rear mount: Truck Co. #4.
2005 E-One Mid mount tower: Ladder Co. #5
2005 E-One Tiller: Ladder Co. #6
June 12, 2021: New General Order -Ambulance renumbering - The Basic Life Support Unit (BLS Units) designations
July 9, 2021: New RAC (Rehabilitation Accountability/Arson/Air & Communications) Unit. (Yes, 3 A’s, but RAAAC would sound silly). This unique Unit is designed to meet State mandates for Safety Officer, Accountability Officer, Rehabilitation Officer, Arson Investigation and Respiratory Compliance. It makes compressed air on board and fills up to 5500 PSI SCBA and SCUBA. It carries command boards, water, extra cylinders, tents, arson investigation equipment, 6,000 PSI air reel, and the Supplied Air Breathing Apparatus (Air Cart for confined space rescue). It can respond anywhere in the State. This is being replaced in partnership with the State of NJ UASI. We are using the guts of the air system to reduce cost and the rig will be brand new. Graphics incomplete. Delivery before 2022. Soon, the Car-6 Ford F-150 will become RAC Support and will be “Arson only” to free investigators & fire marshals up for follow through on investigations and to facilitate transport of our full Arson Equipment Cache including a drone ready for rapid deployment.
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July 15, 2021: Vincent T Marchese photos of restored 1930 Engine 9 Ahrens Fox pumper with PFD's newest apparatus Engine 3 and Engine 2 Ferrara pumpers at McBride Avenue Headquarters and also at Monument. 13 Paterson LODD Firefighters made their last call on an Ahrens Fox pumper or aerial
FF Louis Hernandez, ?, FF Phil Dominguez, Captain Chris Antoci, Captain Gus Gutierez (Car 9), DC William Bucher, DC Joe Henderson, DC Jason Macones, BC Mike Trommelen, Chief Brian McDermott
Chief of Department Brian J McDermott - Vincent Marchese photo
August 2021: future PFD plans
- Plans in operation to 5 Pierce Engines as they are huge, heavy and full of engine coolant problems which will make all 7 front line Ferrara pumpers. They will be clones of the new E3 Ferrara. Short and light and low.
- An architect is working out demolition and reconstruction of Riverside Firehouse as ground contamination was found. Plans are for a hi tech new, non-traditional look. It will have 2 long bays and 3 short bays out the other side and everything will be second floor except watch room. Likely will include poles or slides.
- New ambulance placard system and new numbering system is working well. Future ambulances will likely be electric powered.
September 1, 2021: Hurricane Ida ravishes Paterson - Summary of PFD actions
1. Over 300 people rescued. No deaths. 1 multiple alarm fire on Canal St. 1 aerial ladder rescue of ambulance crew and patient on Arch St.
2. Searched 2,000+ feet long culvert in Clifton confined space entry looking for bodies. Found nothing.
3. Did multiple river searches for bodies. 2 recovered.
4. High profile bridge rescue.
5. Total loss of 1 ambulance and 1 Engine and 1 boat. Boat motor & Ambulance replaced. No word on Engine.
6. HQ floor flooded. ServPro sanitized. All back to normal.
7. All rescue rope damaged. On order.
8. Madison Ave and Northside roofs damaged. To be repaired
9. 12 water rescue suits damaged and on order.
2. Searched 2,000+ feet long culvert in Clifton confined space entry looking for bodies. Found nothing.
3. Did multiple river searches for bodies. 2 recovered.
4. High profile bridge rescue.
5. Total loss of 1 ambulance and 1 Engine and 1 boat. Boat motor & Ambulance replaced. No word on Engine.
6. HQ floor flooded. ServPro sanitized. All back to normal.
7. All rescue rope damaged. On order.
8. Madison Ave and Northside roofs damaged. To be repaired
9. 12 water rescue suits damaged and on order.
September 14, 2021: City is without drinking water. Working with PD and DPW on water distribution. PFD set up 3 sites, multiple forklifts, 2 lull forklifts to travel the City, 3 rack trucks and a county pickup. Working about 10 hours per day. 3 Conex boxes arriving for on site security.
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November 6, 2021: PFD Updates
The Dispatch Center has significantly reduced response time. The new construction is currently stalled
2. The new RAC Unit is done and will be shipped soon
3. PFD got old 3 truck back and was forced to use it with all the North Hudson markings. An ordinance is being prepared to accept it for December and January.
4. 35 electric vehicles have been approved.
5. Plans are also to purchase Ford Explorer Interceptor Full Hybrid and a Ford Expedition.
6. PFD has an opportunity in Elmwood Park to supply EMS
7. The white ambulance and a diamond plate and Chevron is added to rear. Staying white.
8. PFD gave an ambulance to police for a CSI vehicle.
9. Two ambulances had their boxes removed and cabs repainted. They will have flatbeds added: racks, salt spreader and plows.
10. Request is in for 2022 for a logistics truck to help with issues noted during Paterson's water crisis. Hope is for a 35’ straight job with mounted forklift and these two converted ambulances, we can handle it without stalling DPW Ops.
11. Also a new high-water truck is under request. Current one got beat up in Hurricane Ida.
12. All but 55 portable radios are in use out of 501 between fire and police. Very nice design.
13. Chief McDermott is now a Deputy Fire Coordinator for the County. Hope is to build out Communications for all of the County to get on the same network for mutual aid. Paterson Dispatch might be the hub.
14. Hillcrest Firehouse new roof being installed
2. The new RAC Unit is done and will be shipped soon
3. PFD got old 3 truck back and was forced to use it with all the North Hudson markings. An ordinance is being prepared to accept it for December and January.
4. 35 electric vehicles have been approved.
5. Plans are also to purchase Ford Explorer Interceptor Full Hybrid and a Ford Expedition.
6. PFD has an opportunity in Elmwood Park to supply EMS
7. The white ambulance and a diamond plate and Chevron is added to rear. Staying white.
8. PFD gave an ambulance to police for a CSI vehicle.
9. Two ambulances had their boxes removed and cabs repainted. They will have flatbeds added: racks, salt spreader and plows.
10. Request is in for 2022 for a logistics truck to help with issues noted during Paterson's water crisis. Hope is for a 35’ straight job with mounted forklift and these two converted ambulances, we can handle it without stalling DPW Ops.
11. Also a new high-water truck is under request. Current one got beat up in Hurricane Ida.
12. All but 55 portable radios are in use out of 501 between fire and police. Very nice design.
13. Chief McDermott is now a Deputy Fire Coordinator for the County. Hope is to build out Communications for all of the County to get on the same network for mutual aid. Paterson Dispatch might be the hub.
14. Hillcrest Firehouse new roof being installed
December 17, 2021: Ferrara factory photo of the new RAC unit - on the way to NJ
FF1 photo
January 2022: A Supreme Sacrifice Memorial Wall built at McBride Avenue quarters. The placards are dedicated to those FF with historical links to HDQTS or E7. Deputy Chief Sweeney and Chief's Aide Dow were operating out of Central HDQTS (then on Van Houten St) on their fateful day. The other FF were in companies that are linked or evolved into current Engine 7: Chemical 1 (Hamilton Street) became Engine 11 (which moved to Grand Street) and subsequently renamed as Engine 7 (previously located at Gould Ave & Southside). E7 moved to McBride Ave. Harry Kelley and Ed Moore (both of E7), William Cook (of Chemical 1), and Fred Armona (of E11) are in essence alumni of current E7 at McBride.
Courtesy FF Francisco Peralta Jr
January 31, 2022: New RAC Unit arrives at Headquarters - built by Ferrara (Cinder Model) - Not yet in service
1st Responder Newspaper July 2022 issue
February 1, 2022: Contingent of Paterson firefighters travels to Baltimore to honor the city's three LODD
BC Liscio, DC Gander, BC Woods, DC Macones , BC Trommelen
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February 14, 2022: The tiller which returned to PFD a few months ago saw service as a (L2) spare. Shown here at West Broadway, Main and Broadway intersection
Michael Saggau Jr photo
March 4, 2022: 7 new firefighters appointed and sworn in at City Hall - to enter training academy
TapInto.Net
March 15, 2022: In a projected spearheaded by Chief Brian McDermott, Paterson buys a fleet (35) of electric cars several of which will be used by PFD.
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April 2002: PFD news
- New pumpers on order for Engines 6 and 7
- Engine 6 will be renamed as Squad 6.
- Plans to replace Engines 1, 4, and 5 within the year
- Water Rescue Truck approved
- New roofs are in the Hillcrest, Northside and Madison Avenue firehouses
- Hillcrest and Southside firehouses approved for new epoxy bay floors
- New RAC Unit enters service - a Chevy Suburban is also in use as a RAC Support Unit (investigation follow up, extra alarm recall, and simultaneous fires
- New boat motor in place
Comments from Chief McDermott on the two new engines- "E6 & E7 Demos saved about $80k per rig before supply chain rate increases and were ready for immediate delivery with minor changes. These engines are similar to E2. Went from 235” wheelbase of Pierce’s to 188” with Ferrara. These two pumpers have 750 gallon tanks for Rt 80 (which has no hydrants). E1, E4 & E5 are ordered, 300 days out and are E3 clones without the foam tank. E6, E7 and E3 w/foam will serve as a Rt 80 strike team in case of tanker fire or pileup. All in all, our current rigs downtime, accidents and repair cost are too much and they’re just too long. Not a fan of crosslays, but they were already there. Backup cameras are fantastic. I’m just thankful that we are so blessed with incredible equipment."
May 2022: New, all electric vehicles in service - including 8 Fire Marshall gigs
Michael Proventud photos
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May 19, 2022: Engine Company 6 about to change to Squad 6 and here are initial photos of the new Ferrara pumper. Squad 6 is an Engine Company whose personnel are cross trained in Technical Rescue. Squad 6 is NOT an additional Company to the fleet. It does not increase the number of Companies or staff on duty. It is a name and assignment change for Engine 6 only. They will run as usual to fires as an Engine, following Engine Company SOG’s to guide them. Besides the usual Engine equipment, it will have a small complement of Rescue tools with a focus on water and rope rescue and will include hydraulic rescue tools. They will be dispatched and Team up with Rescue 2 for all tech rescue incidents such as: confined space, trench collapse, elevator/escalator entrapment, train derailments, man under, man in machine, etc. (which are such low frequency, high consequence events that it will be great to have a minimum of 8 members that already train together daily to make their job safer and more efficient). Squad 6 will cross staff a high-water vehicle labeled Squad 6a and will activate for flash floods & hurricanes. They will have access to a swift water boat and an RDC along with Rescue 2. All Squad 6 members including Squad Captain will continue to fill daily Rescue 2 vacancies due to leave or sick time absences. They will also cover Rescue 2 duties when MUSAR activates and can staff Rescue 1 if there’s a second rescue needed at scenes like a Rt. 80 pileup or other such large-scale incidents. This is versatile company.
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May 19, 2022: New Engine 7 also on order from Ferrara
August 8, 2022: members of Paterson FA 2 & 202 took part in the FDNY Fire Boat Trip on Hudson River
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Click photos below to enlarge (by BC AJ Woods)
August 2002: PFD updates
The OEM building is proceeding. Running all new fiber optic cable to new OEM building from each house replacing copper. No more outages or static or slow speed.
Another ambulance planned - making it the 12th in 4 1/2 years
LUCAS (Chest Decompression) Devices planned for all ambulances
High water truck order planned for September
A USAR training pod planned
Converting to battery lawn equipment - Mower, blower and weed whackers.
3 hybrid Ford Explorer interceptors on order
FEMA funds requested for new boat ramp, parking lot and epoxy floor at HQ from Ida.
Added A new position called Management Specialist created and staffed by Jessica Schutte.
PFD graduated 9 firefighters and promoted a Captain.
There is potential for some Unit ID changes related to Squad 6, water rescue assets and Spares.
Planning for operational change - a Battalion Chief, 2 Engines, Squad 6, a Ladder & the Rescue to a reported INSIDE gas leak instead of engine and truck. Rescue and Squad on site for that reason, plus they have gas meters to assist
PFD now has the lowest fire rate by as call volume went from 5900 to 8500 annually in 10 years time
September 30, 2022: Breast cancer fundraiser
October 4, 2022: Paterson Fire Captain Michael Payne is currently in Fort Myers area on deployment with FEMA NJ Task Force 1 conducting primary searches and assisting any remaining residents as well as looking for possible fatalities. Also utilizing the latest technology to document our findings in real time to help expedite aid to those most in need.
October 2022: Vandalism at McBride Avenue Headquarters plaques - Cleanup by Paterson DPW & PFD
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December 2022: PFD updates
Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) issues being worked out
Squad 6 apparatus is in - training underway
Squad 6a High Water Truck training underway
New ambulance arrived 12/14/2022
All ambulances receiving LUCAS devices (for chest compression)
Epoxy being applied to utility room floors at Riverside and Southside
Rubber floor bids for Hillcrest and Southside are in progress
Firefighters have received lecture and live operation emergency vehicle operator certification
A waste oil burner to utilize waste from the shop being installed to heat annex
The Call volume in fire is approaching the pull box years (10K) with PFD now being around 9k fire runs. Working fires are significantly down
Deputies and line BC’s received FirstNet Sonim XP10 phones enabling them to log in to the CAD from anywhere and make the Unit available for calls. Staff Battalions 4, 5, 6 & 7 can log on when they have a lull in work and take in calls. These phones also have direct connect talk groups and actually serve as portable radios
Squad 6 apparatus is in - training underway
Squad 6a High Water Truck training underway
New ambulance arrived 12/14/2022
All ambulances receiving LUCAS devices (for chest compression)
Epoxy being applied to utility room floors at Riverside and Southside
Rubber floor bids for Hillcrest and Southside are in progress
Firefighters have received lecture and live operation emergency vehicle operator certification
A waste oil burner to utilize waste from the shop being installed to heat annex
The Call volume in fire is approaching the pull box years (10K) with PFD now being around 9k fire runs. Working fires are significantly down
Deputies and line BC’s received FirstNet Sonim XP10 phones enabling them to log in to the CAD from anywhere and make the Unit available for calls. Staff Battalions 4, 5, 6 & 7 can log on when they have a lull in work and take in calls. These phones also have direct connect talk groups and actually serve as portable radios
December 16, 2022: General order announcing the opening of Squad 6 and closing of Engine Company 6
December 2022: Chief "Santa" McDermott at PPD party
2023
January 4, 2023: PFD Headquarters to be facility where the Mobile Medial Unit of Paterson's Division of Health Vehicle will locate
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Final Statistics for 2022
Courtesy BTF Photos
January 23, 2023: PFD completed a repurposing project of a 2015 Department Ambulance in order to save cost. PFD mechanics made it road worthy with parts from old rigs and the new snow equipment. In the winter, it’s a plow/salter. During a severe snow-storm it will be deployed on all reported fires to plow the way and drop some salt. Aside from that, it will clear snow from PFD facilities. From Spring to Fall, mechanics will remove the snow equipment and assign it to Rescue 2 with a swift water rescue boat on the flat bed instead of using the older towed landscape trailer.
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January 27, 2023: Press conference at Headquarters regarding 2022 stats
February 11, 2023: New all electric Logistic Truck nearing completion
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April 2023: Touch a Truck Day
March 2023: Fire Investigation Unit - PFD has 1 investigator assigned to each tour and roughly 3 other FF’s per tour that are trained that fill in when the primary is off on a leave day.
FF Investigator Scott Wilson
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March 30, 2023: New equipment arrives. Electric powered Logistics Truck and a new ambulance which will serve EMS 1
Logistics Truck with rear power lift. Electric power
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Ambulance #50
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April 17, 2023: Funeral for former Sheriff and FD Commissioner Edwin Englehardt at St. John's Cathedral
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May 11, 2023: Paterson Juneteenth Committee - Standing L-R: Ret Captain Alton Dixon, FF Bryan White, FF Steve Burns, Captain Mike Hall, FF Roshawn Davis. Sitting FF Kathy Sledge, and FF Janice Miller
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June 4, 2023: PFD issues a CPR award to FF-EMS members who perform CPRs during calls. It will be named after Assistant Chief Joseph Dayspring in honor of he having established the ambulance service in 1970. This is the first award not named after a LODD firefighter. 34 FF received the first awards. |
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June 4, 2023: Paterson Museum Foundation purchased a portrait of Timothy Crane, Paterson's first fire chief. He was reelected several times: For more information CLICK HERE
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June 20, 2023: First look at new Ferrara pumper being built - it is one of 4. This one has rescue style compartments on both sides. Delivery set for July. The final 3 pumpers are due for early September.
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Stalled by the supply chain, PFD received these ice rescue suits for use on Rescue 2 and Squad 6. PFD is an all hazards response organization ready to tackle anything, anytime, anywhere.
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2023 June - Other new additions at PFD
2007 old black CoD gig got a rally red paint job and a tune up. This saved a $60k purchase of a new gig and will add 7 years of life to this solid truck.
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a newly built out command cabinet for the Tour Commander
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This Ford F-250 is in production for PFD OEM. It will have disaster response and communications capabilities. It will look much different when it is built out.
Command tents assigned in the RAC and USAR gear purchased by UASI
Wall of apparatus photos, at HQ,
July 10, 2023: PFD attends funeral of the two Newark LODD FF
Assistant Chief Alieca,
Clifton COD Frank Prezioso,
Deputy Chief AJ Woods,
Deputy Chief Cleenput????
Battalion Chief Charlie Gander (B2 T1)
Battalion Chief Mike Trommelen
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FF Amanda Amanda, then
FF Joe Lax (Ladder 3 Tour 1),
Capt John Candello (Chief's Staff), Capt. Winfred Roman? (E3 T3), Capt Steve Ali (E7 T2)
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PFD aerial serving as Newark L6
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PFD (Newark L6) and PFD Battalion Chief at fire
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July 27, 2023: As Chief McDermott retires part of his legacy are the new floors installed at Hillcrest and Southside Firehouses - it is a protective rubber flooring in the bay floors. The old oil-soaked concrete was turning to dust and capturing dirt and grime that was tracking all over the living quarters. The concrete was ground down first to remove decades old toxins. These floors add safety and cleanliness for the firefighters and visiting public. Oil cannot penetrate the floor so FF can fully clean them. Multiple Floor Zamboni’s will keep them sanitized. Snow chains can remain on in winter and don’t damage the floor, unlike epoxy. Now all firehouses have protected bay floor areas, new roofs, and diesel exhaust capture devices to better the health of the firefighters that serve there. Headquarters will receive a new epoxy floor, a repaired storm water drainage system, a new parking lot and a new boat ramp. This project is 90-100% covered by FEMA from damage brought by Hurricane Ida. PFD is also gearing up for HVAC at two houses.
Hillcrest Firehouse
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Hillcrest Firehouse
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Hillcrest Firehouse
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Hillcrest Firehouse
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Southside Firehouse
July 27, 2023: Arrival of new (2023) made by Ferrara Squad 6 to PFD -- -This pumper - 750/1750 - has rescue style compartments on both sides plus the interior of the crew cab. The new Squad 6 has a new and historically relevant logo. It will have light rescue equipment to work independently or support Rescue 2 and, of course, contains all the Engine Company hoses and appliances.
-Current Squad 6 has been re-lettered and will go to Engine 2 shortly.
-Current Engine 2 will go to reserve status so we can maintain 3 reserve pumpers; our sweet spot.
Engines 1, 4 & 5 are just about to begin production by Ferrara on their custom pumpers and should be in service late September or October. Until then, PFD can at least use old E2 as a quality front line piece and place one 2005 E-One back to reserve status. PFD will then retire in two 2005 E-One’s upon receipt of the 3 new pumpers.
Ultimately the spares will be: 2019 Ferrara Pumper, 2015 Pierce Pumper (brand new motor from blown engine), 2005 E-One Pumper (brand new motor from Ida Storm).
-Current Squad 6 has been re-lettered and will go to Engine 2 shortly.
-Current Engine 2 will go to reserve status so we can maintain 3 reserve pumpers; our sweet spot.
Engines 1, 4 & 5 are just about to begin production by Ferrara on their custom pumpers and should be in service late September or October. Until then, PFD can at least use old E2 as a quality front line piece and place one 2005 E-One back to reserve status. PFD will then retire in two 2005 E-One’s upon receipt of the 3 new pumpers.
Ultimately the spares will be: 2019 Ferrara Pumper, 2015 Pierce Pumper (brand new motor from blown engine), 2005 E-One Pumper (brand new motor from Ida Storm).
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August 1, 2023: Assistant Chief Alejandro Alicea-Lopez become Acting Chief of Fire Department
As a Captain
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As Assistant Chief
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August 13, 2023: the Paterson Church of God hosted a service dedicated to honoring the city's local first responders. The occasion marked the seventh consecutive year of this tradition, with a special focus on offering prayers of support and protection for the members of the Paterson Police Department.
"What struck me profoundly within this congregation is the realization that your prayers extend beyond a single day – they encompass us year-round," Acting Fire Chief Alex Alicea said. "My journey with Christ has taught me to walk by faith, not solely relying on what I see. As I respond to emergency scenes, I find solace knowing that this protection extends beyond those moments, safeguarding our everyday lives. Reflecting on the years I've spent here; I'm comforted by the prayers of this congregation. The fact that you pray for us daily has left an indelible mark on my heart. It's a humbling experience, and for that, I offer my deepest gratitude. On behalf of the Paterson Fire Department, I extend my heartfelt thanks. May God bless each and every one of you."
August 19, 2023: The first Hispanic FF appointed was Avelino Fernandez appointed in 1969
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Bombaro photo
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Bombaro photo
August 31, 2023: City issues with salary for the next Chief of Department
September 1, 2023: The National Fallen Firefighters have posted this video interviewing now retired Chief Brian McDermott describing PFD operations and its past. Click this link Quackenbush Warehouse Fire – Paterson Fire Department Today - National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (firehero.org)
September 8, 2023: As part of an archeological investigation water was diverted from the 77' high Passaic Falls thru the hydroelectric plant and with the help of PFD Rescue & DC Arthur Woods, exploration occurred. Research was done by the NPS Submerged Resources Team and Delaware Water Gap Dive Team. Divers went as deep as 30'. Sonar mapped the falls topography. Cleanup above the falls was also performed. Ultimately a map will go to PFD.
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CLICK PHOTOS BELOW TO ENLARGE
North Jersey News Photos (northjersey.com)
October 1, 2023: As both parties prepare to meet with a state appointed arbitrator for a second time on October 2, members of Paterson FMBA Local 202, the union that represents Paterson’s Fire Officers, called on the Sayegh Administration to settle the long-running contract dispute. For full details CLICK HERE
October 29,2023: 8 pumpers were purchased by Chief McDermott from 2019 to 2023 which gave the department a spare that dates from 2019. Squad 6 (2022) went to E2 when the new Squad 6 came in, which gave E2 had a newer rig and old E2 (2019) went to spare status when joining with a Pierce (2015 brand new motor) and an E-One (2005 brand new motor) as spares. The department has 3 spare ladders. On order is a new Custom OEM F250 and potentially electric ambulances. The OEM Building is stalled. There is also a new T1 line conversion fiber optic radio network that’s quietly completed, and a massive $1 million gear order,
November 9, 2002: From "Tap Into Paterson" Website - PFD has received $1 million in funding for personal protective equipment (PPE). This funding, facilitated through the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs Supplemental Transitional Aid, is set to elevate the safety and preparedness of Paterson's dedicated firefighters. "Our personal protective equipment has an expiration date," Acting Fire Chief Alex Alicea said. "The Paterson Fire Department is one of the busiest departments in the state. So along with that shelf life, comes wear and tear and damage. The funding for personal protective equipment ensures that our team is well-equipped to face the challenges on the front lines. This investment allows us to maintain the highest standards of safety. We are grateful for the support, enabling us to move fast and far, meeting the evolving needs and mandates to protect our firefighters from potential harm." The Paterson Fire Department responds to an impressive 45,000 emergency calls annually. The firefighters, who routinely face numerous hazards while on duty, put their lives on the line to safeguard the people and property of Paterson.
Of the approximately $2 million earmarked for the Fire Department, $1 million has been allocated for state-of-the-art PPE equipment. In addition to the PPE funding, the City also announced financial support for the Northside Firehouse renovations and the repaving of the Fire Department Headquarters lots.
November 24, 2023: Announcement for upcoming Chief of Department appointment
November 29, 2023: Alejandro Alicea sworn in as the 12th Chief of Paid Paterson Fire department at a McBride Avenue Firehouse Ceremony
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Chief Alicea taking the Oath
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Receiving Chief Engineer Helmet Shield from Mayor
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November 29, 2023: Michael Hall advanced to rank of Deputy Chief
