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1ST OUT SPECIALTY VEHICLES AND EQUIPMENT have launched a new website. 1st Out Specialty is located at 1155 Stoops Ferry Road in Moon Township, PA 15108. They are an authorized dealer and full service center for American LaFrance fire apparatus and Medic Master EMS units. Some of the equipment that 1st Out Specialty sells include; emergency lighting, sirens, turnout gear, EMS bags, intercoms and headsets, smoke ejectors/PPV fans, ladders, portable generators, scene lighting, radio cases, hose couplings, nozzles, hose reels, radio consoles, GPS systems, gloves, helmets, fire/EMS boots, ropes/rigging, handlights, fire hose, on board charging systems, traffic safety equipment and numerous other items. Whether you are a Firefighter, Paramedic/EMT or Police Officer, let the experienced/friendly staff at 1st Out Specialty get you the equipment you need to perform effectively and safely. Make 1ST OUT SPECIALTY your emergency vehicle and equipment headquarters. "WHEN IN DOUBT, COME TO US AT 1ST OUT" Feel free to check it out: 1ST OUT SPECIALTY EMERGENCY VEHICLES AND EQUIPMENT

"LEST WE FORGET" the three City of Pittsburgh Police Officers who made the ultimate sacrifice on Saturday, April 4, 2009 ERIC G. KELLY badge #3674, PAUL SCIULLO II badge #4179, STEPHEN MAYHLE badge #4137.These brave officers made the ultimate sacrifice while walking the path of a warrior. Your tour of duty has ended here, it is time to patrol Heaven's streets. FALLEN HERO MEMORIAL SHIRTS CAN BE ORDERED HERE BY CLICKING ON THE LINK. IT IS A SECURED WEBSITE AND SHIRTS ARE AVAILABLE IN SIZES SMALL THROUGH 5XL. PROCEEDS FROM THE SALE OF THE SHIRTS GO TO THE "FALLEN HEROES FUND." PITTSBURGH FALLEN HEROES SHIRTS

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Featured Galleries

SCOTT TWP CAR FIRE INVESTIGATION CLASS : Vehicle fire investigation awareness class hosted by Glendale Fire Company (Scott Township), presented by Allegheny County Fire Marshal's office 11/14/2009

SCOTT TWP CAR FIRE INVESTIGATION CLASS

Vehicle fire investigation awareness class hosted by Glendale Fire Com ...

Updated: Nov 19, 2009 1:57am PST

ROSS TWP STRUCTURE FIRE : Multi-alarm residential structure fire 135 Buckhill Road

ROSS TWP STRUCTURE FIRE

Multi-alarm residential structure fire 135 Buckhill Road

Updated: Oct 11, 2009 10:40pm PST

PINK HEALS TOUR 2009 :

PINK HEALS TOUR 2009

Updated: Sep 29, 2009 9:16pm PST

Galleries

9-1-1 RESPONSE PHOTOGRAPHY GUEST BOOK : PLEASE FEEL FREE TO SIGN MY GUEST BOOK AND LET ME KNOW WHAT YOU THINK OF MY SITE.

9-1-1 RESPONSE PHOTOGRAPHY GUEST BOOK

PLEASE FEEL FREE TO SIGN MY GUEST BOOK AND LET ME KNOW WHAT YOU THINK ...

Updated: Apr 07, 2007 7:47am EST

DIEHL-WALKMEYER WEDDING MAY 24, 2009 : Brandon Diehl and Jenn Walmeyer were united in marriage on Sunday, May 24, 2009. The event was held at Banquets Unlimited in North Huntingdon, PA

DIEHL-WALKMEYER WEDDING MAY 24, 2009

Brandon Diehl and Jenn Walmeyer were united in marriage on Sunday, May ...

Updated: Nov 02, 2009 3:41am EST

MARTIN-EAGLEHOUSE WEDDING SATURDAY, AUGUST 2, 2008 :

MARTIN-EAGLEHOUSE WEDDING SATURDAY, AUGUST 2, 2008

Updated: Mar 19, 2009 5:20am EST

CHRISTOPHER LEE AND JAMIE LYNN ROLAND UNITED IN MARRIAGE ON SATURDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2007 :

CHRISTOPHER LEE AND JAMIE LYNN ROLAND UNITED IN MARRIAGE ON SATURDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2007

Updated: Jan 08, 2008 10:26am EST

FIRE VIDEO CLIPS ***THIS GALLERY CONTAINS VIDEO CLIPS OF VARIOUS INCIDENTS/TRAINING THAT WERE SHOT BY MYSELF AND/OR CONTRIBUTED BY OTHERS*** ENJOY!!! : This Gallery is comprised of various video clips of working incidents and or trainings, which I either took myself, or were contributed to the site by viewers. In the gallery, you will see either a picture of the incident/training, or some other image/icon and directly under the image/icon, will be the actual video clip...just click the play button and enjoy!!! Please check this gallery often, as additional video clips will be added as I get them. If you have any videos of incidents or trainings that you would like to submit, please feel free to email me at PGH911NEWS@GMAIL.COM

FIRE VIDEO CLIPS ***THIS GALLERY CONTAINS VIDEO CLIPS OF VARIOUS INCIDENTS/TRAINING THAT WERE SHOT BY MYSELF AND/OR CONTRIBUTED BY OTHERS*** ENJOY!!!

This Gallery is comprised of various video clips of working incidents ...

Updated: Jan 30, 2009 11:08pm EST

FIRE APPARATUS AND EMS VEHICLES : Photos of fire apparatus and EMS vehicle throughout Allegheny County, the City of Pittsburgh and beyond.

FIRE APPARATUS AND EMS VEHICLES

Photos of fire apparatus and EMS vehicle throughout Allegheny County, ...

Updated: Jul 24, 2009 9:30am EST

POLICE VEHICLES : Photos of police vehicles throughout Allegheny County, the City of Pittsburgh and beyond.***For the most comprehensive police vehicle photos covering the United States, please visit*** http://www.policecararchives.org

POLICE VEHICLES

Photos of police vehicles throughout Allegheny County, the City of Pit ...

Updated: Nov 18, 2008 12:59am EST

FIREFIGHTER FACES : Faces of firefighters throughout Allegheny County, the City of Pittsburgh and beyond.

FIREFIGHTER FACES

Faces of firefighters throughout Allegheny County, the City of Pittsbu ...

Updated: May 23, 2009 10:03pm EST

EMS PERSONNEL : Photos of EMS personnel throughout Allegheny County, the City of Pittsburgh and beyond

EMS PERSONNEL

Photos of EMS personnel throughout Allegheny County, the City of Pitts ...

Updated: Jun 12, 2009 1:55pm EST

WOMEN OF THE EMERGENCY SERVICES : Here are photos of the various women firefighters, police officers and EMS personnel throughout Western Pennsylvania and beyond.

WOMEN OF THE EMERGENCY SERVICES

Here are photos of the various women firefighters, police officers and ...

Updated: May 23, 2009 10:16pm EST

WOMEN NEWS REPORTERS : Here are photos of the various women news reporters from the local news stations in southwestern Pennsylvania; KDKA-TV2, WPXI-TV11 and WTAE-TV4.

WOMEN NEWS REPORTERS

Here are photos of the various women news reporters from the local new ...

Updated: Dec 11, 2008 1:35am EST

CORAOPOLIS POLICE DEPARTMENT ADDS TWO DODGE CHARGERS TO THEIR PATROL FLEET :

CORAOPOLIS POLICE DEPARTMENT ADDS TWO DODGE CHARGERS TO THEIR PATROL FLEET

Updated: Oct 06, 2007 6:20pm EST

DODGE CHARGER WITH AN ATTITUDE: LOCAL POLICE DEPARTMENT IS PROUD OF THEIR NEWLY CUSTOMIZED DODGE CHARGER : It is stealth, it is custom, it is bad as hell...It is a Dodge Charger with an attitude...I am talking about the 2006 Dodge Charger unmarked police car, which Ross Township Police Department should be very proud of. A local customizing business donated all the materials and time, to deck out this ride, making it one kick ass criminal/speeder catching machine. Here is a breakdown of all the bells, whistles and gingerbread that went into making this unmarked police car being one of the most awesome police vehicles around. The following are the components the make up the Audio system: Power Bass ASA 300-2 600 watt amplifier; Power Bass 5-12 12" subwoofer (insert color painted to match car); Metra 99-6507 Dash kit; Metra 70-6502 wiring harness; Metra 40CR10 antenna adapter; Custom ported subwoofer enclosure; plexiglass enclosed amplifier rack; chrome bar speaker grill and Tsunami power supply cables. The following items make up the Visual system: Pioneer 7" AM/FM/CD flip out monitor; mini rear color camera with audio input and DVD player hidden in rear compartment. The following make up the wheels and tires on this vehicle: 18 x 8 Player 902 Black with Diamond cut arms and 225/60/18 Firestone Pursuit Tires. And as far as the Accessories, they are as follows: Danko Reproductions "MoPower" Shaker System; Sideview flashing emergency lighting; chrome pinstriping; Street Glow NEO Blue strobe light; Street Glow Red Strobe light; Stainless finish dash bezel and full detail.

DODGE CHARGER WITH AN ATTITUDE: LOCAL POLICE DEPARTMENT IS PROUD OF THEIR NEWLY CUSTOMIZED DODGE CHARGER

It is stealth, it is custom, it is bad as hell...It is a Dodge Charger ...

Updated: Oct 06, 2007 5:57pm EST

NEW CITY OF PITTSBURGH RESCUE TRUCKS; RESCUE 1 AND RESCUE 2 : City of Pittsburgh EMS take delivery of "twins", Rescue Truck twins that is. The new City of Pittsburgh Rescue 1 and Rescue 2 were on display at Glick Fire Equipment Company on Saturday, May 05, 2007. The new Rescue Trucks are expected to be hitting the streets of Pittsburgh in approximately one month. The Heavy Duty Rescue Trucks were manufactured by Pierce Manufacturing Inc. located in Appleton, Wisconsin. The trucks are the Pierce ArrowXT design style. The price for each Rescue Truck was just under $425,000. The specs for the new Rescue Trucks are as follows; ArrowXT cab with 16" raised roof, seating for (4), 205" wheelbase, TAK-4 Independent Suspension, HVAC system, 49,800# GVWR, 22" Bumper Extension with dual tool boxes and recessed mount winch, Detroit Diesel S-60 470 hp engine, Allison 4000 EVS transmission, Allison Transmission Retarder, Aluminum 18.5" body, Transverse compartment forward of the rear wheels, Hurst Simo Pump and two reels in each of the rear side compartments, Full height rear roll-up compartment, Hatch compartments, Compliment of shelving, trays and tool boards, Aluminum Treadplate side fender panels, Compliment of ladders(24', 10' and Little Giant), Air bag rack, Special shelves and trays throughout the body, Winch receivers on both sides of the body and rear, Rope tie off points on the front and rear of the rescue body,Code 3 and Whelen LED warning light package, Air horns, electric Code 3 siren and Q2B siren, Onan 35 kw PTO generator between the frame rails, Wilburt Light Tower, Two cord reels, Two 6000 ASME air bottles for tool air and air panel, and lastly; Two air reels with 150' blue hose. The above is just a list of the main specs, however the numerous compartments offer so many more capabilities to complete two very well laid-out Rescue Trucks.

NEW CITY OF PITTSBURGH RESCUE TRUCKS; RESCUE 1 AND RESCUE 2

City of Pittsburgh EMS take delivery of "twins", Rescue Truck twins th ...

Updated: May 05, 2007 5:54pm EST

FIREHOUSES : Firehouses throughout the city of Pittsburgh and beyond...Please feel free to email a photo of your firehouse and I will add it to the growing gallery showcase

FIREHOUSES

Firehouses throughout the city of Pittsburgh and beyond...Please feel ...

Updated: Dec 06, 2008 12:20am EST

HARMAR TOWNSHIP FIRE COMPANY (ALLEGHENY COUNTY) STATION 166 : History of Harmar Township Fire Company Station 166 "Prior to the forming of a fire company in Harmar Township, we depended on surrounding communities for fire protection. These were primarily Cheswick, Springdale, and Oakmont Boroughs. Before March 25, 1938, there had been some effort by leading citizens in the Harmarville area to form a fire company. The group purchased a used fire truck and housed it in the West Penn Street Car Barn in Harmarville. However, this was short lived; the group disbanded and sold the equipment. On March 25, 1938, there was a general meeting of the Harmar Twp. citizens called by the Twp. supervisors for the purpose of discussing the organization of a fire company. The meeting was held at the township building in Acmetonia. At the March 25th meeting, Mr. J. L. Kruth of Harmarville was elected temporary chairman, and Leonard B. Sharpsburg and Mr. William Wanamaker Sr. were called upon to offer suggestions and help to organize a fire company. A committee of five men (Arthur Wagle, Kenneth Peterson, David Stitt, Lawrence Hilliard, and Frank Graham) was appointed to draft a set of bylaws and constitution. A meeting was set for Monday, March 28, 1938, 8:30PM. The township supervisors (Frank Graham, James Anderson, and Charles Hodel, Sr.) had already purchased a new fire truck, so they set up a temporary group of 14 men to handle the equipment until the fire company could be organized. As a result of the previous meetings, March 30, 1938, the first organized meeting was held and the first nominations of officers of Harmar Twp. Vol. Fire Co. No. 1 were put to ballot. The nominations are a matter of record. A copy of the bylaws and constitution was read at this time. On April 12, 1938, the first officers of the fire company were elected and sworn into office. On May 21, 1938, the first set of bylaws and constitution were read again and on July 5, 1938 were adopted. A fire whistle was put to use by the new firemen on the tipple of the Consumers Mining Company at Harmarville on August 5, 1938. The fire truck, a 1938 Mack, was housed in the township building at the foot of Acme Hill on Pearl Street. This new piece of equipment was the cause of much pride and honor among the members because of the many prizes it won in competitive firemen’s parades. An application for a Charter was made immediately, but because of bad health, the original attorney was unable to complete the original application. We were finally granted a Charter in June 1939 after a second try by another attorney. In 1941, the fire company rented the building presently used by the Cooper Tire Co. for all the company social functions. In 1943 our present property was deeded to us by the Harmar Twp. School Board. Our building was erected in 1949 and was used as a social center for the township, especially all the civic groups, Boy and Girl Scouts, and many sports associations. In 1954, the fire company purchased the combination Ford Squad and Pumper Truck, of which we were very proud. A new addition to the engine room was built in 1958. A new American LaFrance Pumper Fire Truck was purchased in March, 1964. Our next addition to our fire-fighting equipment was a Diesel Engine Mack Pumper, purchased in July, 1971, by the township supervisors. Our current fleet consist of a 1987 Mack/Pierce engine, 1993 Pierce engine, 1996 Ford Explorer, 1999 Ford pickup truck, 2003 Rescue Truck, 24’ Pontoon fireboat, 14’ rescue boat and a technical rescue trailer. These current additions were purchased by the Fire Company using smart and careful financial planning. Throughout the years, the Harmar Fire Co. has purchased and learned to use many fire and rescue equipment. The members have regular sessions every month to keep alert to all latest methods to be better able to render assistance wherever and whenever needed. A fireman is not only a firefighter. He is also a helper in many community needs. We are proud and will continue to be proud to be a part of Harmar Township. We will continue to render our services when needed."

HARMAR TOWNSHIP FIRE COMPANY (ALLEGHENY COUNTY) STATION 166

History of Harmar Township Fire Company Station 166 "Prior to the f ...

Updated: Aug 12, 2007 5:45pm EST

SCOTT TWP CAR FIRE INVESTIGATION CLASS : Vehicle fire investigation awareness class hosted by Glendale Fire Company (Scott Township), presented by Allegheny County Fire Marshal's office 11/14/2009

SCOTT TWP CAR FIRE INVESTIGATION CLASS

Vehicle fire investigation awareness class hosted by Glendale Fire Com ...

Updated: Nov 19, 2009 4:57am EST

ROSS TWP STRUCTURE FIRE : Multi-alarm residential structure fire 135 Buckhill Road

ROSS TWP STRUCTURE FIRE

Multi-alarm residential structure fire 135 Buckhill Road

Updated: Oct 12, 2009 1:40am EST

PINK HEALS TOUR 2009 :

PINK HEALS TOUR 2009

Updated: Sep 30, 2009 12:16am EST

MILLVALE ROLLOVER ACCIDENT 09/09/2009 : Millvale - A rollover accident occurred on North Avenue near Hardee's in Millvale on 09/09/2009. According to police reports a pickup truck had crossed the center line...the sedan swerved to avoid the collision, overcompensated, causing the vehicle to go up on a guardrail and a pole before flipping onto its roof. There was no extrication needed. the operator of the sedan was treated for a minor injury. ****photos are courtesy of Janice Cavanaugh****

MILLVALE ROLLOVER ACCIDENT 09/09/2009

Millvale - A rollover accident occurred on North Avenue near Hardee's ...

Updated: Sep 10, 2009 9:35pm EST

KENNEDY TWP STRUCTURE FIRE : Multi-alarm residential structure fire 6 Sunset Drive in Kennedy Township (Allegheny County) on Thursday, August 27, 2009

KENNEDY TWP STRUCTURE FIRE

Multi-alarm residential structure fire 6 Sunset Drive in Kennedy Towns ...

Updated: Aug 28, 2009 1:47am EST

THE TRI STATE ANTIQUE FIRE ENGINE ASSOCIATIONS WILL HOLD THEIR ANNUAL MUSTER ON SATURDAY AUGUST 15, 2009 AT HEINZ FIELD : The Tri State Antique Fire Engine Associations is a Society dedicated to Preserve and Appreciate Antique Motorized Fire Apparatus in America which is the title of the National organization S.P.A.A.M.F.A.A. As a chapter of SPAAMFAA, the Tri State Antique Fire Engine Association serves parts of PA, WV, and OH. The TSAFEA accomplishes this chiefly via our annual fire muster which invites antique and modern fire apparatus to muster “gather” for purposes of display and demonstration. We also endeavor to assist antique fire apparatus owners in their interest of obtaining, restoring, and showing fire apparatus. This is accomplished by collaboration among our members, our newsletter, our meetings, and our national publications (Enjine-Enjine and the Silver Trumpet). Come check out our newly launched website here http://www.tsafea.org

THE TRI STATE ANTIQUE FIRE ENGINE ASSOCIATIONS WILL HOLD THEIR ANNUAL MUSTER ON SATURDAY AUGUST 15, 2009 AT HEINZ FIELD

The Tri State Antique Fire Engine Associations is a Society dedicated ...

Updated: Aug 16, 2009 1:31am EST

2009 OAKDALE FIRE PARADE 07/24/2009 :

2009 OAKDALE FIRE PARADE 07/24/2009

Updated: Jul 26, 2009 6:20pm EST

MILLVALE STRUCTURE FIRE 245 SIEGEL STREET 07/11/2009 : Heavy fire engulfs a vacant duplex at 245 Siegel Street in Millvale, on Saturday, July 11, 2009 approximately 34 hours after another house was consumed by flames at the intersection of Siegel/Lippert Streets. For audio of this call, click on the below link and download the file to listen. Audio is courtesy of Chip Deutsch http://www.filedropper.com/20090711frresmil

MILLVALE STRUCTURE FIRE 245 SIEGEL STREET 07/11/2009

Heavy fire engulfs a vacant duplex at 245 Siegel Street in Millvale, o ...

Updated: Jul 12, 2009 5:54am EST

MILLVALE STRUCTURE FIRE 100 LIPPERT STREET 07/10/2009 : Fully involved vacant structure fire in the Borough of Millvale, in the early morning hours on July 10, 2009. To hear the audio of this incident click on the link below and download it.....enjoy!!!! Audio is courtesy of Chip Deutsch. http://www.filedropper.com/20090710frresmil

MILLVALE STRUCTURE FIRE 100 LIPPERT STREET 07/10/2009

Fully involved vacant structure fire in the Borough of Millvale, in t ...

Updated: Jul 10, 2009 2:23pm EST

2009 LEETSDALE POLICE CAR/CLASSIC VEHICLE CAR CRUISE 06/27/2009 :

2009 LEETSDALE POLICE CAR/CLASSIC VEHICLE CAR CRUISE 06/27/2009

Updated: Jun 30, 2009 11:33am EST

CITY OF PITTSBURGH (SHERADEN) MERWYN AVENUE STRUCTURE FIRE 06/16/2009 *** FIRST 52 PHOTOS COURTESY OF PITTSBURGH ARSON SQUAD *** :

CITY OF PITTSBURGH (SHERADEN) MERWYN AVENUE STRUCTURE FIRE 06/16/2009 *** FIRST 52 PHOTOS COURTESY OF PITTSBURGH ARSON SQUAD ***

Updated: Jun 18, 2009 1:46pm EST

2009 ALLEGHENY COUNTY CONVENTION PARADE HOSTED BY HEIDELBERG FIRE COMPANY JUNE 13, 2009 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF R J BOGDON *** :

2009 ALLEGHENY COUNTY CONVENTION PARADE HOSTED BY HEIDELBERG FIRE COMPANY JUNE 13, 2009 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF R J BOGDON ***

Updated: Jun 19, 2009 12:13am EST

CITY OF PITTSBURGH (MANCHESTER) STRUCTURE FIRE SEDGWICK STREET 05/23/2009 :

CITY OF PITTSBURGH (MANCHESTER) STRUCTURE FIRE SEDGWICK STREET 05/23/2009

Updated: May 23, 2009 8:37pm EST

SHALER TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL PROM PROMISE 2009 MOCK DRILL 05/22/2009 :

SHALER TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL PROM PROMISE 2009 MOCK DRILL 05/22/2009

Updated: May 24, 2009 1:49am EST

STOWE TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 1119 STOWE AVENUE 05/18/2009 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF JEFF GRUBER*** :

STOWE TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 1119 STOWE AVENUE 05/18/2009 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF JEFF GRUBER***

Updated: May 19, 2009 1:59am EST

BELLEVUE FATAL STRUCTURE FIRE 440 JEFFERSON AVENUE BELLEVUE MANSIONS APARTMENTS 05/15/2009 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF STATION 108*** : Awesome audio of this major incident can be heard by clicking the links below and downloading the audio file to listen at your own leisure. It is in two parts so both links would need to be downloaded. Enjoy!!! ***Audio courtesy of Chip Deutsch*** http://www.filedropper.com/20090515frcombelpart1 http://www.filedropper.com/20090515frcombelpart2

BELLEVUE FATAL STRUCTURE FIRE 440 JEFFERSON AVENUE BELLEVUE MANSIONS APARTMENTS 05/15/2009 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF STATION 108***

Awesome audio of this major incident can be heard by clicking the lin ...

Updated: Jun 05, 2009 2:37pm EST

JOHNSTOWN CAMBRIA AIRPORT DISASTER DRILL 05/09/2009 ***MANY MORE PHOTOS TO BE ADDED OVER NEXT SEVERAL DAYS CHECK BACK OFTEN*** :

JOHNSTOWN CAMBRIA AIRPORT DISASTER DRILL 05/09/2009 ***MANY MORE PHOTOS TO BE ADDED OVER NEXT SEVERAL DAYS CHECK BACK OFTEN***

Updated: May 22, 2009 9:57am EST

PROM PROMISE NORTHGATE HIGH SCHOOL MOCK DRILL 05/06/2009 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF BELLEVUE FIRE COMPANY*** :

PROM PROMISE NORTHGATE HIGH SCHOOL MOCK DRILL 05/06/2009 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF BELLEVUE FIRE COMPANY***

Updated: May 07, 2009 9:19pm EST

FIRE SERVICE WOMEN OF PENNSYLVANIA 2009 CONFERENCE HELD AT THE STATE FIRE ACADEMY IN LEWISTOWN 5/2/2009-5/3/2009 :

FIRE SERVICE WOMEN OF PENNSYLVANIA 2009 CONFERENCE HELD AT THE STATE FIRE ACADEMY IN LEWISTOWN 5/2/2009-5/3/2009

Updated: May 09, 2009 9:23pm EST

3 CITY OF PITTSBURGH POLICE OFFICERS PAY THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE SATURDAY, APRIL 4, 2009 "LEST WE FORGET" THESE BRAVE WARRIORS : AWESOME MULTI-MEDIA COVERAGE OF THE TRAGIC SHOOTOUT IN STANTON HEIGHTS AND OF THE DAYS FOLLOWING THE TRAGIC LOSS OF 3 PITTSBURGH POLICE OFFICERS. MULTI-MEDIA COVERAGE IS COURTESY OF THE PITTSBURGH POST-GAZETTE. TO SEE THIS COMPREHENSIVE COVERAGE CLICK HE LINK BELOW PITTSBURGH POST GAZETTE MULTI MEDIA COVERAGE AUDIO OF THE TRAGIC STANTON HEIGHTS SHOOTOUT THAT CLAIMED THE LIFE OF 3 PITTSBURGH POLICE OFFICERS CAN BE DOWNLOADED AND LISTENED TO BY CLICKING THE LINK BELOW. (AUDIO IS COURTESY OF incidentbroadcast) STANTON HEIGHTS SHOOTOUT AUDIO PLEASE FEEL FREE TO LEAVE YOUR CONDOLENCES FOR THE FALLEN OFFICERS AND THEIR FAMILIES BY CLICKING THE LINK BELOW. PITTSBURGH POLICE OFFICERS MEMORIAL ADDITIONAL LINKS ON LAST PAGE OF THE GALLERY OF ADDITIONAL PHOTOS AS WELL AS A LINK TO DOWNLOAD AND WATCH VIDEO OF OFFICER MAYHLE'S FUNERAL PROCESSION IN INDIANA COUNTY. THE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS AND VIDEO ARE COURTESY OF RENDA BROADCASTING PRODUCTIONS On Saturday, April 4, 2009 shortly after 7:00 a.m. City of Pittsburgh police officers from Zone 5, were dispatched to a reported Mother/Son domestic situation at 1016 Fairfield Street, in the Stanton Heights neighborhood of the City of Pittsburgh. Officers Paul Sciullo II and Stephen Mayhle, who were the late cars on the night shift, responded to the scene. Officer Eric Kelly, who had just gotten off duty and was on his way home, heard the domestic call come over his radio and since he is from the Stanton Heights neighborhood, stopped on his way home, to see if he could assist Officers Sciullo and Mayhle. Officers Sciullo and Mayhle knocked on the door of the Fairfield Street residence and identified themselves as Pittsburgh police officers. Within moments gunfire erupted from inside the home. The rounds from an AK-47 struck Officers Sciullo and Mayhle in the head. Officer Sciullo fell in the doorway of the residence and Officer Mayhle fell out in the front yard, not far from the door. Officer Eric Kelly who had exited his personal vehicle, was shot a short distance from his vehicle and fell to the street. Officer Kelly was able to transmit the call for help on his portable radio, saying, “Shots fired Officers down need assistance.” Officers immediately responded to plea for help…officer down call. One of the first backup officers to arrive was Timothy McManaway, who attempted to rescue the fallen officers and pull them out of the line of fire. In a brave attempt to rescue his brother officers, Officer McManaway sustained a gunshot wound to his hand. Officer McManaway took cover and waited for additional backup units. In a matter of minutes, numerous police and EMS units flooded the area. City of Pittsburgh SWAT team members responded to the scene along with their armored vehicle (BEAR). During this time, the actor continued to fire shots out the window of the residence at responding officers. Several rounds struck the armored vehicle. SWAT team members attempted to execute a rescue of the fallen officers, but were met with gunfire each time they tried. A perimeter was established, numerous roads were shut down and residents in the neighborhood were told to stay away from their door and windows. Another police officer, Brian Jones, who was attempting to secure the rear of the residence, sustained a broken leg when a fence gave way that he had climbed. Automatic gunfire continued to come from a window of the house. SWAT team personnel exchanged gunfire with the actor. Negotiators attempted to make contact with the actor, with priority being to negotiate the rescue of the fallen officers. SWAT commander requested that the Allegheny County SWAT team respond with their armored vehicle for assistance. As the tense situation continued on, numerous other law enforcement agencies responded to assist, including; Pennsylvania State Police, Allegheny County Sheriff, Port Authority Police, State Police helicopter. SWAT team members utilizing a police van rigged with bullet proof vests were finally able to rescue the fallen officers and get them to waiting EMS units. Officers Sciullo and Mayhle succumbed to their wounds at the scene. Officer Kelly succumbed to his wounds at a Pittsburgh hospital. Officers McManaway and Jones were transported to undisclosed Pittsburgh hospitals for treatment of their injuries. After several hours and nearly 100 rounds exchanged in the gun battle, Negotiators were able to get the actor to cease fire and surrender. SWAT team members entered the residence and located the 23 year-old male actor, Richard Poplawski in his bedroom with multiple gun shot wounds to the legs. Actor struggled with officers as they were taken into custody. Actor was also found to be wearing a bullet proof vest. The actor was transported by EMS to UPMC Presbyterian hospital under a police escort. It appears as this was a pre-meditated ambush and the actor already wearing a bullet proof vest, armed himself with his AK-47, a rifle, and one if not two handguns and a stockpile of ammunition, and just waited for the police officers to arrive at the residence. Poplawski is being charged with 3 counts of criminal homicide, 9 counts of attempted homicide, aggravated assault, reckless endangerment and firearms violations. Officer Eric Kelly is survived by his wife Marina and three daughters; Timyka, Autumn and Janel, his mother and a sister. Officer Paul Sciullo II is survived by his parents, two sisters and his fiancee, he was engaged to be married soon. Officer Stephen Mayhle is survived by his wife Chandra and two daughters; Jennifer and Brooklyn, his parents and two brothers. Please keep these brave fallen warriors in your prayers, Also hearts and prayers go out to the fallen officers’ immediate families, as well as their large law enforcement family….the City of Pittsburgh police. Prayers go out for a speedy recovery for Officers McManaway and Jones.

3 CITY OF PITTSBURGH POLICE OFFICERS PAY THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE SATURDAY, APRIL 4, 2009 "LEST WE FORGET" THESE BRAVE WARRIORS

AWESOME MULTI-MEDIA COVERAGE OF THE TRAGIC SHOOTOUT IN STANTON HEIGHTS ...

Updated: Apr 26, 2009 8:26pm EST

SEWICKLEY HILLS BARN FIRE 2242 FAIRHILL ROAD 03/14/2009 :

SEWICKLEY HILLS BARN FIRE 2242 FAIRHILL ROAD 03/14/2009

Updated: Mar 14, 2009 6:59pm EST

SEWICKLEY HEIGHTS STRUCTURE FIRE FOX HILL FARMS 352 BLACKBURN ROAD 02/27/2009 :

SEWICKLEY HEIGHTS STRUCTURE FIRE FOX HILL FARMS 352 BLACKBURN ROAD 02/27/2009

Updated: Mar 02, 2009 6:02pm EST

SCOTT TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 458 MONTGOMERY AVENUE 02/16/2009 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF MELANIE HAMMOND*** :

SCOTT TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 458 MONTGOMERY AVENUE 02/16/2009 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF MELANIE HAMMOND***

Updated: Feb 20, 2009 6:17pm EST

HOMESTEAD STRUCTURE FIRE EAST 344 E.11TH AVENUE 02/15/2009 *** LAST 55 PHOTOS COURTESY OF MELANIE HAMMOND *** :

HOMESTEAD STRUCTURE FIRE EAST 344 E.11TH AVENUE 02/15/2009 *** LAST 55 PHOTOS COURTESY OF MELANIE HAMMOND ***

Updated: Mar 07, 2009 5:42pm EST

STOWE TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 1174 DOHRMAN STREET 02/09/2009 :

STOWE TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 1174 DOHRMAN STREET 02/09/2009

Updated: Feb 14, 2009 1:48am EST

CITY OF PITTSBURGH (HIGHLAND PARK) STRUCTURE FIRE COLLINS AVENUE 02/04/2009 ***THE FIRST 55 PHOTOS ARE COURTESY OF JONATHAN PLUTNICKI*** :

CITY OF PITTSBURGH (HIGHLAND PARK) STRUCTURE FIRE COLLINS AVENUE 02/04/2009 ***THE FIRST 55 PHOTOS ARE COURTESY OF JONATHAN PLUTNICKI***

Updated: Feb 11, 2009 4:03am EST

LIVE STRUCTURAL BURN CLASS HOSTED BY WEXFORD VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY 01/31/2009 :

LIVE STRUCTURAL BURN CLASS HOSTED BY WEXFORD VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY 01/31/2009

Updated: Feb 03, 2009 10:41am EST

NORTH VERSAILLES STRUCTURE FIRE GREENSBURG PIKE 01/26/2009 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF DERRICK PARADY*** :

NORTH VERSAILLES STRUCTURE FIRE GREENSBURG PIKE 01/26/2009 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF DERRICK PARADY***

Updated: Feb 06, 2009 8:30am EST

CITY OF PITTSBURGH (NORTHSIDE) STRUCTURE FIRE CHURCH AT CALIFORNIA/KIRKBRIDE 01/25/2009 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF MELANIE HAMMOND***ADDITIONAL PHOTOS COURTESY OF ASSISTANT CHIEF JAMES CRAWFORD PBF*** :

CITY OF PITTSBURGH (NORTHSIDE) STRUCTURE FIRE CHURCH AT CALIFORNIA/KIRKBRIDE 01/25/2009 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF MELANIE HAMMOND***ADDITIONAL PHOTOS COURTESY OF ASSISTANT CHIEF JAMES CRAWFORD PBF***

Updated: Feb 06, 2009 8:40am EST

CARNEGIE STRUCTURE FIRE 996 CHARTIERS STREET 01/24/2009 :

CARNEGIE STRUCTURE FIRE 996 CHARTIERS STREET 01/24/2009

Updated: Jan 28, 2009 5:27am EST

CITY OF PITTSBURGH (NORTHSIDE) INDUSTRIAL STRUCTURE FIRE DOERR STREET 01/23/2009 :

CITY OF PITTSBURGH (NORTHSIDE) INDUSTRIAL STRUCTURE FIRE DOERR STREET 01/23/2009

Updated: Jan 28, 2009 4:10am EST

CITY OF PITTSBURGH (BROOKLINE) STRUCTURE FIRE BROOKLINE BOULEVARD 01/08/2009 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF MELANIE HAMMOND*** :

CITY OF PITTSBURGH (BROOKLINE) STRUCTURE FIRE BROOKLINE BOULEVARD 01/08/2009 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF MELANIE HAMMOND***

Updated: Jan 09, 2009 8:30pm EST

CITY OF PITTSBURGH (NORTHSIDE) STRUCTURE FIRE 600 BLOCK PRESSLEY STREET 01/04/2009 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF MELANIE HAMMOND*** :

CITY OF PITTSBURGH (NORTHSIDE) STRUCTURE FIRE 600 BLOCK PRESSLEY STREET 01/04/2009 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF MELANIE HAMMOND***

Updated: Jan 09, 2009 8:47pm EST

BRIDGEVILLE STRUCTURE FIRE 01/02/2009 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF MELANIE HAMMOND*** :

BRIDGEVILLE STRUCTURE FIRE 01/02/2009 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF MELANIE HAMMOND***

Updated: Jan 09, 2009 8:43pm EST

CITY OF PITTSBURGH (EAST LIBERTY) STRUCTURE FIRE COLLINS/PENN CIRCLE 12/30/2008 :

CITY OF PITTSBURGH (EAST LIBERTY) STRUCTURE FIRE COLLINS/PENN CIRCLE 12/30/2008

Updated: Dec 30, 2008 5:04pm EST

AVALON STRUCTURE (PORCH) FIRE 304 SOUTH BIRMINGHAM AVENUE 12/28/2004 :

AVALON STRUCTURE (PORCH) FIRE 304 SOUTH BIRMINGHAM AVENUE 12/28/2004

Updated: Dec 29, 2008 10:54am EST

ROSS TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE GRANDVIEW AVENUE 12/22/2008 :

ROSS TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE GRANDVIEW AVENUE 12/22/2008

Updated: Dec 26, 2008 8:40am EST

SEWICKLEY STRUCTURE FIRE 246 BROAD STREET 12/22/2008 :

SEWICKLEY STRUCTURE FIRE 246 BROAD STREET 12/22/2008

Updated: Dec 24, 2008 11:35am EST

RESERVE TOWNSHIP BARN BURNER GEYER ROAD EXTENSION 12/22/2008 :

RESERVE TOWNSHIP BARN BURNER GEYER ROAD EXTENSION 12/22/2008

Updated: Dec 23, 2008 11:44am EST

EDGEWORTH STRUCTURE FIRE 400 BLOCK OF MAPLE LANE 12/20/2008 :

EDGEWORTH STRUCTURE FIRE 400 BLOCK OF MAPLE LANE 12/20/2008

Updated: Dec 21, 2008 11:08pm EST

AVALON STRUCTURE FIRE 507 TAYLOR AVENUE 12/16/2008 :

AVALON STRUCTURE FIRE 507 TAYLOR AVENUE 12/16/2008

Updated: Dec 17, 2008 10:16am EST

STOWE TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 11 TUNNEL WAY 12/11/2008 : On Thursday, December 11, 2008 at approximately 8:40 a.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 received a report of an incinerator on fire in and outside the structure, at Fortunes Food and Coffee Company, located at 11 Tunnel Way in Stowe Township. The following units were dispatched on the initial assignment; Fleming Park (Station 275), West Park (Station 276), Presston (Station 277), Ben Avon R.I.T. (Station 109) and Northwest EMS (Station 191). Stowe Township Fire Chief Dave Gallagher reported smoke showing from a distance. Chief Gallagher requested an immediate 2nd alarm assignment, requesting Emsworth (Station 148) and Ingram Truck (Station 176). Upon arriving on the scene, Chief Gallagher established Tunnel Way command. Chief Gallagher cancelled the 2nd alarm assignment right away, as the fire was contained to the incinerator. Crews made a quick knockdown and checked for extension. Command placed the fire under control at 9:00 a.m. Crews remained on the scene for an additional 30 minutes for overhaul operations.

STOWE TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 11 TUNNEL WAY 12/11/2008

On Thursday, December 11, 2008 at approximately 8:40 a.m. Allegheny 9- ...

Updated: Dec 12, 2008 5:20am EST

BEN AVON STRUCTURE FIRE 422 WALNUT ROAD 12/09/2008 ***THE LAST (26) PHOTOS ARE COURTESY OF JUSTIN MILLER STATION 108*** :

BEN AVON STRUCTURE FIRE 422 WALNUT ROAD 12/09/2008 ***THE LAST (26) PHOTOS ARE COURTESY OF JUSTIN MILLER STATION 108***

Updated: Dec 12, 2008 5:39am EST

CITY OF PITTSBURGH STRUCTURE FIRE (PERRY SOUTH) 331 KENNEDY AVENUE 12/08/2008 :

CITY OF PITTSBURGH STRUCTURE FIRE (PERRY SOUTH) 331 KENNEDY AVENUE 12/08/2008

Updated: Dec 08, 2008 6:50pm EST

CITY OF PITTSBURGH STRUCTURE FIRE (HAZELWOOD) 219 COURTLAND STREET 12/03/2008 : On Wednesday, December 3, 2008 at approximately 2:42 p.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 received multiple calls reporting a structure fire, at 219 Courtland Street in the Hazelwood section of the City of Pittsburgh. The following units were dispatched on the initial assignment; 13 Engine, 12 Engine, 20 Engine, 13 Truck, 4042 (District Battalion Chief), 4 Engine (Go Team), 4044 (Safety Chief), MAC-2 (Mobile Cascade), Rescue 2 and Medic 5112. Pittsburgh Police zone 4 patrol officer arrived on the scene within a couple of minutes and reported a working fire, with other units of the row house in danger. Officer was advised that all occupants of the structure are accounted for. Engine 13 arrived on the scene within minutes after the officer and confirmed heavy smoke and fire issuing from the Alpha side, middle unit of a two-story brick row of four. At approximately 2:50 p.m. 4042 arrived on the scene and established Courtland command. Upon arriving on the scene, 4042 requested an immediate 2nd alarm assignment. The following units were dispatched on the 2nd alarm; 10 Engine, 23 Engine, 14 Truck, 404 (Deputy Chief Mullen) and 42 (Assistant Chief Crawford). Initial crews advanced attack lines and attempted an offensive attack on the original fire structure. At approximately 2:55 p.m. Command reported a partial collapse of the porch roof of the original involved unit, as well as heavy fire on the 2nd floor of all of the units in the row. Command requested that the evacuation tones be sounded and that all crews pull out of the structure. All crews re-grouped and set up for a defensive attack. A collapse zone was also established. Numerous 2 ½” and 1 ¾” attack lines, deluge guns and an aerial master stream were put into operation. At approximately 3:45 p.m. Command reported that the roof has collapsed into the structure, all crews accounted for. Crews battled the intense blaze for two hours, before darkening the heavy volume of fire. Command placed the fire under control at approximately 5:30 p.m. Crews remained on the scene for an extended period of time to extinguish numerous hot spots. The American Red Cross personnel were on the scene to assist those displaced by the fire, by providing them with food, clothing and temporary housing. Salvation Army personnel were on the scene with the mobile canteen unit, providing food and drinks to the emergency service personnel. The City of Pittsburgh arson squad was called to the scene to investigate the fire, which heavily damaged all four units.

CITY OF PITTSBURGH STRUCTURE FIRE (HAZELWOOD) 219 COURTLAND STREET 12/03/2008

On Wednesday, December 3, 2008 at approximately 2:42 p.m. Allegheny 9- ...

Updated: Dec 04, 2008 4:59am EST

VERONA STRUCTURE FIRE 715 3RD STREET 12/03/2008 :

VERONA STRUCTURE FIRE 715 3RD STREET 12/03/2008

Updated: Dec 04, 2008 12:24am EST

STOWE TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 629 WOODWARD AVENUE 12/02/2008 :

STOWE TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 629 WOODWARD AVENUE 12/02/2008

Updated: Dec 02, 2008 5:33pm EST

HOMESTEAD STRUCTURE FIRE 131 WEST 10TH 12/01/2008 :

HOMESTEAD STRUCTURE FIRE 131 WEST 10TH 12/01/2008

Updated: Dec 02, 2008 1:15pm EST

ASPINWALL HOLIDAY PARADE 11/22/2008 :

ASPINWALL HOLIDAY PARADE 11/22/2008

Updated: Nov 25, 2008 12:48am EST

MOON TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 1630 CHARLTON HEIGHTS ROAD 11/13/2008 :

MOON TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 1630 CHARLTON HEIGHTS ROAD 11/13/2008

Updated: Nov 15, 2008 4:40am EST

END OF WATCH NATHAN MICHAEL BURNFIELD SOUTH STRABANE POLICE DEPARTMENT NOVEMBER 4, 2008 :

END OF WATCH NATHAN MICHAEL BURNFIELD SOUTH STRABANE POLICE DEPARTMENT NOVEMBER 4, 2008

Updated: Nov 17, 2008 11:27pm EST

MCKEES ROCKS VEHICLE/STRUCTURE FIRE OWEN STREET 10/29/2008 :

MCKEES ROCKS VEHICLE/STRUCTURE FIRE OWEN STREET 10/29/2008

Updated: Oct 29, 2008 11:29am EST

CORAOPOLIS STRUCTURE FIRE 920 STATE AVENUE 09/25/2008 :

CORAOPOLIS STRUCTURE FIRE 920 STATE AVENUE 09/25/2008

Updated: Sep 26, 2008 7:56pm EST

MILLVALE STRUCTURE FIRE 113 DAVIS AVENUE 10/13/2008 : On Monday, October 13, 2008 at approximately 6:11 p.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 received reports of a residential structure fire with entrapment, at 113 Davis Avenue in Millvale. The following units were dispatched on the initial assignment; Millvale (Station 191), Bauerstown (259 Engine 2), Etna (149 Engine 1), Cherry City (260 Truck), Aspinwall (102 R.I.T.), Spring Garden (240 Accountability), Ross-West View EMS (Station 212 and 312 Rescue 40) and Millvale police. Allegheny 9-1-1 received additional information that an occupant had jumped from the 2nd floor rear of the house. Millvale police arrived on the scene within minutes and confirmed a working fire, with heavy smoke showing from the rear. They also confirmed one male down in the rear of the house, who had jumped, requesting EMS expedite. 191 Chief arrived on the scene a moment after the officers and reported heavy fire 2nd floor of a two-story wood frame middle unit of a row. The crew from 191 Engine advanced an attack line into the Charlie side of the structure, while the crew from 191 Truck laddered the Charlie side of the structure. The crew from 259 Engine took a backup attack line into the Alpha side of the structure. Crew from 260 Truck conducted a primary search of the fire building as well as made the 1st vent hole in the roof of the fire building. Crew from 149 established water supply and advanced an additional backup line into the Alpha side of the structure. Crew from 149 also made the 2nd vent hole in the roof of the original fire building. At approximately 6:38 p.m. Command requested additional manpower, requesting Mt. Troy (239 Engine) and Berkley Hills (247 Truck). Interior crews made a quick knock on the main body of fire. Crews from 260, 149, 247 and 239 checked the exposure structures for any extension. Crew from 259 ventilated smoke from the exposures. Crew from 149 also assisted with overhaul operations in the original fire building. Interior crews were finding numerous hot spots as they pulled ceilings. Command placed the fire under control at approximately 7:00 p.m. Crews remained on the scene for a period of time extinguishing the numerous hot spots. Ross-West View EMS transported the male occupant who had jumped, to Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh. Salvation Army personnel were on the scene with their mobile canteen unit, providing emergency personnel with food and drink. The Allegheny County Fire Marshal was called to the scene to investigate the cause of the fire.

MILLVALE STRUCTURE FIRE 113 DAVIS AVENUE 10/13/2008

On Monday, October 13, 2008 at approximately 6:11 p.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 ...

Updated: Oct 14, 2008 2:28am EST

CRESCENT TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 278 SPRING RUN ROAD 09/18/2008 ***FIRST 3 PHOTOS COURTESY OF A NEIGHBOR SONDRA TAKEN ON HER CELL PHONE*** :

CRESCENT TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 278 SPRING RUN ROAD 09/18/2008 ***FIRST 3 PHOTOS COURTESY OF A NEIGHBOR SONDRA TAKEN ON HER CELL PHONE***

Updated: Sep 19, 2008 3:38am EST

HIGHLANDS EMERGENCY SERVICES ALIANCE SAFETY FAIR 09/13/2008 :

HIGHLANDS EMERGENCY SERVICES ALIANCE SAFETY FAIR 09/13/2008

Updated: Sep 14, 2008 10:26pm EST

OHIO TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 500 BLOCK OF MOUNT NEBO ROAD 09/05/2008 :

OHIO TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 500 BLOCK OF MOUNT NEBO ROAD 09/05/2008

Updated: Sep 08, 2008 7:29pm EST

WILD PURSUIT OF A BANK ROBBERY SUSPECT IN THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH 09/05/2008 : On Friday, September 5, 2008 at approximately 5:50 p.m. a w/m wearing a gray hoodie, black wig, black baseball cap, a dark bandana and gloves entered the National City bank, located in the Banksville shopping plaza on Banksville Road, at the City of Pittsburgh/Dormont line. Once inside the bank, the actor jumped the counter and told the bank tellers that he had a gun and demanded money. Tellers placed the money into a money bag and the actor fled the bank, without injuring anyone inside the bank. Once outside the bank, the actor jumped into the driver’s side of a silver minivan type vehicle, which was parked in the parking lot, with his female accomplice inside. A female witness, who had observed the actor enter and exit the bank, called 9-1-1 to report the suspicious activity. The witness was able to provide a description of the vehicle, the registration number and a direction of flight on the fleeing vehicle, as well as a description of the actor. The witness followed the fleeing vehicle, updating 9-1-1 call taker with the current location of the suspect vehicle. At approximately the same time, National City bank employees were reporting the robbery. A BOLO was put out to City of Pittsburgh police, as well as Dormont and Mt. Lebanon police, with the description of the vehicle and the actor. The suspect vehicle made its way from Banksville Road to Route 51 (Saw Mill Run Boulevard),via Crane Avenue. The suspect vehicle turned right on Saw Mill Run Boulevard, where a City of Pittsburgh K-9 unit spotted the suspect vehicle, that was still being followed by the witness. The officer attempted to stop the suspect vehicle on Saw Mill Run Boulevard near W. Warrington Avenue. The suspect vehicle failed to yield for the officer and a pursuit was initiated. The officer calling the pursuit reported that the suspect vehicle was a Saturn Vue and not a minivan, as initially reported. Pittsburgh K9 officer continued pursuing the suspect vehicle up W. Warrington Avenue towards the Beltzhoover neighborhood. Numerous other Pittsburgh police vehicles joined in on the pursuit. The suspect vehicle continued through the Mt. Washington neighborhood, on a track towards the West End of Pittsburgh. The pursuit continued out Carson Street towards the Fort Pitt Bridge. The suspect vehicle exited Carson Street onto the Fort Pitt Bridge, followed by a fleet of Pittsburgh Police vehicles. The pursuit continued from the Fort Pitt Bridge onto the Fort Duquesne Bridge. The suspect vehicle took the ramp to Route 28 Northbound at approximately 6:01 p.m. At this time, municipal police agencies along Route 28, as well as the Pennsylvania state police were notified of the pursuit of the bank robbery suspect, who was motoring towards their jurisdictions. The suspect vehicle exited Route 28 and entered into the borough of Etna at approximately 6:07 p.m. At this time, officers from Etna, and Shaler Township joined in on the pursuit. The suspect vehicle continued on Butler Street in Etna towards Washington Street. The suspect vehicle continued on Butler Street, passing Freeport towards Sharpsburg. The City of Pittsburgh police channels as well as Newcom area police channels were patched together, to enable better communications between the involved agencies during the pursuit. With the pursuit entering Main Street in Sharpsburg, officers from Sharpsburg, Aspinwall, Blawnox, and Millvale now joined the chase. The chase continued on Main Street through Sharpsburg. The suspect vehicle encountered slow traffic in the 1600 block of Main Street. The suspect took desperate, evasive actions and hopped the sidewalk. Officers attempted to set up spike strips on the sidewalk, in efforts to slow down and eventually put an end to this wild chase. However, the vehicle continued traveling on the sidewalk for nearly two blocks, before entering back onto Main Street in the area of 18th Street and continued to the entrance ramp of Route 28, where the suspect vehicle entered the expressway and continued southbound, back towards the city of Pittsburgh. Additional officers set up more spike strips along the expressway. The vehicle struck the spikes deflating at least one tire on the vehicle. The suspect vehicle continued south on Route 28 towards the 40th Street bridge, where he encountered heavy rush hour traffic congestion. The suspect continued to press on with his erratic driving, trying to squeeze between gridlocked traffic. The suspect vehicle struck another civilian vehicle with its passenger side mirror. The suspect vehicle then struck the rear of a tractor trailer truck and almost became disabled, allowing officers to close in on the suspect vehicle with their guns drawn. Amazingly, the suspect vehicle was able to break free and continue down the expressway, nearly striking officers who were out of their vehicles. At one point, the operator of a tractor trailer veered into the passenger side of the suspect vehicle, in efforts of pinning the vehicle in and ending this incredible chase. Yet again the determined suspect managed to squeeze his way past the trailer truck and continue southbound. Another set of spike strips were deployed successfully, with a several tires deflated and the rubber rapidly shredding free of the rims, the vehicle began slowing down prior to the 31st Street bridge. Seeing a prime opportunity to end this pursuit, Lieutenant Timothy O’Connor (3380) of Pittsburgh police zone 3 pulled up along the driver’s side of the suspect vehicle and attempted a pit maneuver, in an effort to abruptly turn the suspect vehicle sideways, causing the vehicle to come to a stop and be boxed in by other police vehicles. The suspect vehicle struck Lieutenant O’Connor’s patrol vehicle, causing it to flip onto the driver’s side for a brief time and then the patrol vehicle became upright again. The suspect vehicle made a left turn onto the 31st Street Bridge, greatly slowing down in speed. Several patrol vehicles again attempted a pit maneuver on the suspect vehicle approximately ¼ of the way across the bridge span over Washington Crossing, successfully causing the vehicle to lose control, turn sideways and strike the side of the bridge. Approximately 25 officers swarmed the suspect vehicle, removed the suspect out of the vehicle and effectively subdued and arrested the very combative suspect. Additional officers removed the female passenger from the vehicle and took her into custody without incident. Even though his patrol vehicle had flipped, was heavily damaged and he sustained an arm injury, Lieutenant O’Connor was able to drive to the end of the chase scene, to see the suspects being led away in cuffs and placed into the rear of separate patrol vehicles. The female suspect was transported to the City of Pittsburgh Major Crimes Bureau, where she was interviewed by detectives. The male suspect was transported to Allegheny General Hospital for treatment and then was transported to the Major Crimes Bureau, where he too was questioned by detectives. The 31st Street Bridge was shut down for several hours, so that detectives could process the scene. In all, this wild pursuit encompassed 20(+) miles, through multiple jurisdictions, involving a multiplicity of police vehicles. In addition to Lieutenant O’Connor, a few municipal officers also sustained minor injuries during the pursuit, when their patrol vehicles were involved in crashes. KUDOS to all of the police officers involved for a job well done!!! The suspects have been identified as John McCleavy, 36, of Pittsburgh and Meghan Jaeger, 21, of Ohio. McCleavy has a lengthy criminal record and Jaeger has a couple recent criminal charges. Both actors were arraigned and lodged in the Allegheny County Jail. Both are facing numerous charges including aggravated assault, robbery, reckless endangerment of another person, receiving stolen property, fleeing and eluding and hit and run. Jaeger will also be charged with conspiracy. KUDOS also goes out to WTAE TV4 and the crew in SKY 4 helicopter for a magnificent job in covering the chase as it unfolded.

WILD PURSUIT OF A BANK ROBBERY SUSPECT IN THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH 09/05/2008

On Friday, September 5, 2008 at approximately 5:50 p.m. a w/m wearing ...

Updated: Sep 07, 2008 3:05am EST

R.I.T. REVOLUTION CLASS HOSTED BY MOON TOWNSHIP FIRE COMPANY AND TAUGHT BY INSTRUCTORS FROM THE PITTSBURGH BUREAU OF FIRE 08/25/2008 :

R.I.T. REVOLUTION CLASS HOSTED BY MOON TOWNSHIP FIRE COMPANY AND TAUGHT BY INSTRUCTORS FROM THE PITTSBURGH BUREAU OF FIRE 08/25/2008

Updated: Aug 26, 2008 4:02pm EST

ALLEGHENY COUNTY FIRE MARSHAL'S OFFICE VEHICLE FIRE AWARENESS AND TRAINING HOSTED BY ALEPPO TOWNSHIP FIRE DEPARTMENT 08/18/2008 : On Monday, August 18, 2008 Aleppo Township Volunteer Fire Department hosted a vehicle fire and awareness training, which was instructed by the Allegheny County Fire Marshal’s office. In addition to Aleppo Township firefighters, there were firefighters from Edgeworth, Mt. Oliver and Berkley Hills participating in the class. The class, which was very informational and well presented, was instructed by lead instructor; Mike Shawley and assistant instructor; Mike Krzeminski. Additional personnel assisting the instructors included; Ignition officer; Leo Gildea, K9 handler; Don Brucker, Support Personnel; Gene Stouffer, Dan Wolfe, Incident Dispatcher; Melissa Salerno, Interns; Tim Smoley, Tammy Ladebu, Michele Lieb and Steve Karaffa and Safety officer for the class; Tony Ladebu. The class consisted of approximately six scenarios. The first scenario was involving an incendiary device. (Fire units did not participate in this scenario). Technicians from the Allegheny County Bomb Squad detonated an explosive device inside of a vehicle, resulting in damage to the vehicle, but no fire. In this scenario, investigators respond and during examination of the vehicle, the team locates the remains of a suspected incendiary device. Investigation crews collect the remains of the device and prepare evidence for lab processing. 2nd Scenario consisted of a catalytic converter fire, in which a vehicle catalytic converter overheats starting a fire, which engulfs the vehicle. Firefighting crews respond and extinguish the fire. 3rd Scenario consisted of an engine compartment fire in a running vehicle, which resulted from an apparent poor mechanical repair. Firefighting crews respond and extinguished the fire. 4th Scenario was designed to show the effects of ventilation, in which a fire was set inside of a vehicle with all of the windows closed. Firefighting crews responded and extinguished the fire. In the 2nd part of this scenario, a fire was set inside of a vehicle with the windows open. Firefighting crews responded and extinguished the well involved vehicle fire. 5th Scenario was a motor vehicle fire/investigation, in which firefighting crews responded to a fully involved vehicle fire with a victim ejected into a creek bed. Crews extinguished the fire as additional crews rescued the victim from the creek bed and carried him up the hill in a stokes basket to awaiting EMS personnel. Investigators responded to conduct an investigation and process the scene. Final Scenario consisted of multiple vehicles on fire including a boat, with visible signs indicating a fire of suspicious nature, including a gasoline can left behind at the scene, as well as anger issue graffiti on the involved vehicles. Firefighting personnel responded and extinguished the fire. Investigators responded to conduct an investigation and process the scene. To sum it up, this is a really good class and helps to teach responders that an “ordinary” vehicle fire could be much more than “ordinary” It helps to teach responders to be alert and observant to the surroundings at the scene of a vehicle fire, which could indicate that the fire is suspicious in nature. The class is extremely informational as well as fun, and you can pretty much assure that students will learn a great deal during this 4 to 6 hour class. If you have an opportunity to take this class, by all means do so. If your department is interested in hosting this class, contact the Allegheny County Fire Marshal’s office

ALLEGHENY COUNTY FIRE MARSHAL'S OFFICE VEHICLE FIRE AWARENESS AND TRAINING HOSTED BY ALEPPO TOWNSHIP FIRE DEPARTMENT 08/18/2008

On Monday, August 18, 2008 Aleppo Township Volunteer Fire Department h ...

Updated: Aug 22, 2008 5:06am EST

GLENFIELD LIVE STRUCTURAL BURN 19 HILL ROAD 08/16/2008 :

GLENFIELD LIVE STRUCTURAL BURN 19 HILL ROAD 08/16/2008

Updated: Aug 18, 2008 1:05pm EST

SHALER TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 1600 BLOCK OF EVERGREEN AVENUE 08/03/2008 ***ADDITIONAL 16 PHOTOS AFTER THE VIDEO CLIPS WERE PROVIDED*** : On Sunday, August 3, 2008 at approximately 2:38 a.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 received multiple calls reporting a house on fire at 1650 Evergreen Avenue, in Shaler Township across from the Shop n’ Save. The following units were dispatched on the initial assignment; Bauerstown (Station 259), Evergreen (Station 246), Cherry City (Station 260), Millvale (Station 191), Mt. Troy R.I.T. (Station 239), Shaler Township EMS (Station 170) and Shaler Township police. Shaler Township police arrived on the scene within minutes and reported heavy fire and smoke issuing from the Alpha side of a two-story vacant structure. Assistant 259 arrived on the scene a minute after the police and assumed command. Command advises that there are live wires down on the Alpha and Delta sides of the structure. Command immediately requested that Berkley Hills (Station 247) be dispatched for an Engine and requested that Seville (Station 251) be dispatched to supplement 239 R.I.T. Command advised that this would be a defensive attack only, due to the downed wires, the heavy volume of fire and the fact that the house was vacant. Truck 191 set up for aerial master stream operations, below the house on the Alpha side. 259 Engine established the water supply and proceeded up the private roadway to the Delta side of the structure. Crews placed several 2 ½” and 1 ¾” attack lines into operation. Truck 260 was positioned in the parking lot of the Shop n’ Save and set up for aerial master stream operations. Command requested that Berkley Hills (Station 247) be notified for 247 Truck to respond to the scene, and set up on Babcock Boulevard below the structure, on the Bravo side for additional aerial master stream operations. Crews battled the intense fire for approximately one hour, before the bulk of the fire was darkened. Command placed the fire under control at approximately 4:10 a.m. Crews remained on the scene for an extensive period of time extinguishing hot spots. A Millvale fire Captain sustained a foot injury while battling the blaze. He was transported by Ross/West View EMS to Allegheny General Hospital for treatment. A firefighter from Evergreen Fire Company was treated at the scene for smoke inhalation. Salvation Army personnel were on the scene with their mobile canteen unit, providing cold drinks and snacks to the emergency personnel. The Allegheny County Fire Marshal was called to the scene to investigate the fire, which heavily damaged the structure.

SHALER TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 1600 BLOCK OF EVERGREEN AVENUE 08/03/2008 ***ADDITIONAL 16 PHOTOS AFTER THE VIDEO CLIPS WERE PROVIDED***

On Sunday, August 3, 2008 at approximately 2:38 a.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 r ...

Updated: Aug 06, 2008 3:39am EST

KILBUCK TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE SUNNY JIMS 255 CAMP HORNE ROAD 07/20/2008 :

KILBUCK TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE SUNNY JIMS 255 CAMP HORNE ROAD 07/20/2008

Updated: Jul 24, 2008 7:57am EST

COLLIER TOWNSHIP POLICE DEPARTMENT HAS A NEW VEHICLE IN THEIR FLEET A 2008 KAWASAKI TERYX : Collier Township Police Department received a 2008 Kawasaki Teryx from World of Cycles in Moon Township. This was made possible through a Government program that allows municipalities to test such vehicles for a trial period, to evaluate their worthiness in the community, with the option of returning it, or purchasing the vehicle. The Kawasaki Teryx is a V-Twin 750cc, with a top speed of 55 m.p.h. The Teryx has a 1,500 pound towing capacity and a 500 pound bed capacity. It operates in both 2-wheel drive and 4-wheel drive. Collier Township's Teryx has a bicycle rack mounted on the rear, and is equipped with a small red/blue lightbar and will eventually be equipped with a siren as well. The Teryx would undoubtedly be very effective in Collier Township, which is approximately 13 square miles, coinsisting of woods, isolated areas, Nevillewood Country Club and the 2.4 mile Panhandle trail, which is used by walkers, joggers and bicyclist. In its first month of use, the Teryx has already been utilized for a rescue from the Panhandle trail, as well as a search. The Teryx has been and will continue to be an asset to the Collier Township Police Department. Special thanks to Officer Bill Oslick for showing me the new Kawasaki Teryx and demonstrating its effectiveness.

COLLIER TOWNSHIP POLICE DEPARTMENT HAS A NEW VEHICLE IN THEIR FLEET A 2008 KAWASAKI TERYX

Collier Township Police Department received a 2008 Kawasaki Teryx from ...

Updated: Jul 21, 2008 11:31pm EST

OHIO TOWNSHIP PARADE 2008 07/18/2008 ***ADDED A FEW VIDEO CLIPS AT THE END OF GALLERY*** :

OHIO TOWNSHIP PARADE 2008 07/18/2008 ***ADDED A FEW VIDEO CLIPS AT THE END OF GALLERY***

Updated: Jul 21, 2008 10:24pm EST

MILLVALE VEHICLE ACCIDENT CAR VS. HOUSE 44 LAWRENCE STREET 07/15/2008 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHERRY CITY FIRE COMPANY*** :

MILLVALE VEHICLE ACCIDENT CAR VS. HOUSE 44 LAWRENCE STREET 07/15/2008 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHERRY CITY FIRE COMPANY***

Updated: Jul 20, 2008 4:11am EST

MCKEESPORT STRUCTURE FIRE 07/11/2008 ***FIRST 17 PHOTOS AFTER VIDEO CLIPS ARE COURTESY OF DEREK PARADY*** :

MCKEESPORT STRUCTURE FIRE 07/11/2008 ***FIRST 17 PHOTOS AFTER VIDEO CLIPS ARE COURTESY OF DEREK PARADY***

Updated: Jul 13, 2008 8:58am EST

PENN HILLS STRUCTURE FIRE 8522 DERSAM STREET 07/10/2008 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF PENN HILLS FIRE COMPANY #1*** : On Thursday afternoon, Stations 225, 221, & 227 were alerted for a stove on fire in the 8500 block of Dersam Street. 911 dispatchers updated units that the caller reports flames coming out of the front window. 227 Assistant-2 requested a RIT Team to be dispatched, bringing Station 222 on the call. EN-225 reported on scene with heavy smoke showing and requested the next engine to get a water supply. EN-227-1 established the water supply from the hydrant and supplied EN-225. Crews from 225 & 227 made a quick knock down of the fire. EN-221 handled ventilation. 222 handled the RIT and Roof Ventilation. No injuries reported. Fire was under control in about 15mins. PH Fire Marshal is investigating the cause of the fire. On a side note, while responding to assist, 222 Engine 2 came across a shooting patient at Mt Carmel Road and Verona Road, there crew began basic life support until PH EMS arrived. Command: 221 Chief (Snyder) Operations: 221 Capt, 225 LT Units: EN-225, Quint-225, SV-225, EN-227-1, TK-227, SV-227, EN-221, EN-222, EN-2222, PHPD, 380 & 310, PHFM

PENN HILLS STRUCTURE FIRE 8522 DERSAM STREET 07/10/2008 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF PENN HILLS FIRE COMPANY #1***

On Thursday afternoon, Stations 225, 221, & 227 were alerted for a sto ...

Updated: Jul 15, 2008 10:14am EST

BELLEVUE HAZARDOUS MATERIAL INCIDENT AT ALLEGHENY GENERAL HOSPITAL SUBURBAN CAMPUS 07/09/2008 : On Wednesday, July 9, 2008 at approximately 3:55 p.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 received a report from the security officer at Allegheny General Hospital Suburban campus, located at 100 South Jackson Avenue in Bellevue, that they had a Formalin leak in an operating room on the 3rd floor of the facility. The following units were dispatched on the initial assignment; Bellevue (Station 108), Avalon (Station 103), Fairview (Station 250), Northwest EMS (Station 192) and Bellevue police. Commanding fire officer requested that Ben Avon (Station 109) be dispatched to fulfill the initial assignment. Security advised emergency personnel that approximately one gallon of Formalin, a Formaldehyde solution, had spilled. MSDS sheets for the product indicate that the product is flammable/combustible and vapors may form explosive mixtures with air. The product can have toxic effects if inhaled or ingested, and contact with the substance may cause severe burns to the skin and eyes. Based on information received about the product in question, command requested that the Allegheny County Hazardous Material Silver Team respond to the incident at approximately 4:05 p.m. Hazmat crews began arriving on the scene at approximately 4:25 p.m. Once all of the Silver Team members were on the scene, a briefing was held to go over information about the product and the plan to mitigate it. Air condition units for the facility were shut down to prevent fumes and vapors from becoming more wide spread. At approximately 5:25 p.m. crews evacuated the recovery room area. Hazmat crews began making entry into the room where the spillage occurred at approximately 5:30 p.m. At approximately 6:00 p.m. Command requested that a couple additional EMS units stage at the hospital, in the event of any walk-in patients, as the facility was on condition “black” and were not accepting patients while the incident was ongoing. After making entry, crews had the spill contained and cleaned up within an hour. Crews that were involved in the clean up of the product, had to go to decon, once the exited the facility. Crews began breaking down and cleaning up at approximately 7:05 p.m. During the duration of the incident, Emsworth (Station 148) were on standby at their station and Kilbuck (Station 182) were on standby at Station 103, to cover calls for the units that were committed at the incident. Salvation Army personnel were on scene with their mobile canteen unit, providing cold drinks, snacks and cold/wet towels to the emergency personnel. Command was terminated at approximately 7:50 p.m.

BELLEVUE HAZARDOUS MATERIAL INCIDENT AT ALLEGHENY GENERAL HOSPITAL SUBURBAN CAMPUS 07/09/2008

On Wednesday, July 9, 2008 at approximately 3:55 p.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 ...

Updated: Jul 10, 2008 3:50am EST

LEETSDALE FIRE DEPARTMENT HOLDS DEDICATION FOR THE NEW ENGINE 303 07/05/2008 : On Saturday, July 5, 2008 Leetsdale Volunteer Fire Department held a dedication for their new Engine 303, in front of their fire station on Broad Street. Sewickley Fire Department 258 Truck was parked on one side of Broad Street near the fire house and Moon Township Fire Company Engine 4 (tele-squirt), was parked across the street from 258 Truck. With both aerials slightly raised and spraying a shower of water down onto Broad Street, Leetsdale Fire Chief, Ernie Logan drove the new Engine 303 down Broad Street with lights and sirens, towards the two raised aerial apparatus and water curtain. The new Engine 303 was soaked down, as it passed under the water curtain that was created by Sewickley and Moon apparatus. Chief Logan then parked the new Engine on the pad in front of the station, where all those present bowed their heads as a local pastor said a short prayer, blessing the new Engine as well as the Leetsdale firefighters. Following the prayer, as with tradition, the Leetsdale firefighters all lined up in front of the new Engine and pushed it back into its bay at the station. Leetsdale residents and other firefighters that showed up for the dedication were given a tour of the new fire station. A cookout was held following the dedication. The new Engine 303 has reflective dots on the rear of the Engine, to help make the Engine much more visible, even during the day. Those in attendance had a chance to guess how many reflective dots are on the rear of Engine 303, by donating $1.00 a guess, with the person with the closest guess to the number of dots, winning the money. Chief Logan’s wife Shirley spent 2 hours the night before, counting each and every reflective dot for the contest. How many dots do you think there are on the rear of Engine 303? Look closely at the last picture in the gallery. So how many dots are there…………………..And the answer is………….. 3,682. Here are some of the specs on the new Engine 303. It is a 2006 Spartan cab and chassis with a Spencer body. The Engine was sold to Leetsdale Fire Department by Keystone Fire Apparatus for $340,000. Engine 303 has a 2000 GPM pump; it has a rehab compartment that includes a refrigerator. The Engine carries 50 gallons of foam and can carry 7 firefighters.

LEETSDALE FIRE DEPARTMENT HOLDS DEDICATION FOR THE NEW ENGINE 303 07/05/2008

On Saturday, July 5, 2008 Leetsdale Volunteer Fire Department held a d ...

Updated: Jul 07, 2008 9:57am EST

LEETSDALE 4TH OF JULY PARADE 07/04/2008 :

LEETSDALE 4TH OF JULY PARADE 07/04/2008

Updated: Jul 05, 2008 3:19am EST

GREENTREE STRUCTURE FIRE 1130 HILLSVIEW TERRACE 07/02/2008 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF MELANIE HAMMOND*** :

GREENTREE STRUCTURE FIRE 1130 HILLSVIEW TERRACE 07/02/2008 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF MELANIE HAMMOND***

Updated: Jul 08, 2008 5:06pm EST

ROSS TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE AUDIO 1 2988 BABCOCK BOULEVARD 07/01/2008 :

ROSS TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE AUDIO 1 2988 BABCOCK BOULEVARD 07/01/2008

Updated: Jul 02, 2008 2:49pm EST

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) MARSHALL-SHADELAND STRUCTURE FIRE 13 COURTRIGHT STREET 06/30/2008 :

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) MARSHALL-SHADELAND STRUCTURE FIRE 13 COURTRIGHT STREET 06/30/2008

Updated: Aug 10, 2008 5:38am EST

PENN HILLS ACCIDENT WITH ENTRAPMENT 7828 MARK DRIVE 06/24/2008 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF PENN HILLS FIRE COMPANY #1*** : Units were alerted for a Motor Vehicle Collision. 222 RQ followed by 221 Chief called enroute. While enroute County 911 advised they were getting multiple calls for 2 persons entrapped. 222 RQ arrived on scene to find 2 victims with extensive entrapment. 221 Chief arrived on scene and assumed Mark Command, with 222 Asst taking Operations. 221 SVC and 222 Eng 1 called in service followed by 221 Eng 1. Crews on scene began extrication with preconnected tools off of 222 RQ. 221 SVC arrived and brought the Combi Tool into service as well. Crews used the spreader to gain access to the passenger door while EMS crews were doing C Spine Stabilization. Due to deterioting PT conditions, and the possibility of the unstable pole with live wires falling on responders and the vehicle it was decided that a rapid extrication of both patients was in the best interest of all parties. Crews from 221 and 222 worked on disentanglement and extrication. Both victims were extricated and care transferred to Eastern Area Medics. Crews remained on scene for sometime assisting the police with lighting and clearing debris from the scene. Duquesne Light arrived on scene and called a Line Crew out immediately for replacement of the pole. 13T5 (Don Kuhn Towing) arrived with a flat bed to remove the vehicle. All fire units were released and Command was terminated.

PENN HILLS ACCIDENT WITH ENTRAPMENT 7828 MARK DRIVE 06/24/2008 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF PENN HILLS FIRE COMPANY #1***

Units were alerted for a Motor Vehicle Collision. 222 RQ followed by 2 ...

Updated: Jul 15, 2008 10:28am EST

HAMPTON TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 5110 POLO FIELDS DRIVE 06/17/2008***PHOTOS COURTESY OF JONATHAN PLUTNICKI*** :

HAMPTON TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 5110 POLO FIELDS DRIVE 06/17/2008***PHOTOS COURTESY OF JONATHAN PLUTNICKI***

Updated: Jul 15, 2008 11:17am EST

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) ESPLEN STRUCTURE FIRE 300 BLOCK WALCOTT STREET 06/17/2008 :

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) ESPLEN STRUCTURE FIRE 300 BLOCK WALCOTT STREET 06/17/2008

Updated: Jun 18, 2008 7:04pm EST

LEETSDALE 2008 POLICE CAR CRUISE 06/14/2008 : Assistant Chief James Santucci of the Leetsdale Police Department hosted a police car –car cruise on Saturday, June 14, 2008. The police car cruise was held at the Quaker Valley stadium in Leetsdale. The event was sponsored by 1st Out Specialty Vehicles and Equipment, Moon Township Ford and R & S Enterprise Printing. There were several police vehicles on display, including; Leetsdale, Sewickley, Sewickley Heights, Edgeworth, Leet Township, Bell Acres, Shippingport, Beaver County Sheriff, Allegheny County Sheriff, Ambridge, Aliquippa, Findlay Township, Robinson Township, Chatham College and Armstrong County District Attorney’s Office. There were also demo vehicles on display, including a Dodge Charger from 1st Out Specialty and a Ford Crown Vic interceptor from Moon Township Ford. In addition to the police vehicles, there was fire apparatus on display as well, including; Sewickley Fire Department aerial, Moon Township Fire Company aerial and Leetsdale Fire Department Engine. The event also included police K9 demonstrations, a dunking booth and a Chinese auction. The rain sort of put a damper on things and kept the crowds down, however those in attendance appeared to have a good time. The K9 demonstrations were put on by Sgt. Richard Heitzenrater of the Ambridge Police Department, with his partner “Nails” and Detective M. Heider of the Armstrong County Office of the District Attorney, with his partner “Klif”. Nails and Klif put on an excellent show by chasing down and attacking the padded arm of a willing Ernest Logan of the Leetsdale Fire Department. Trophies were awarded for the following categories; Best appearing patrol unit, best appearing D.A.R.E vehicle, most lighted vehicle, best appearing unmarked vehicle, oldest police vehicle and best appearing K9. Judging declared the following winners; Ross Township Police won best appearing patrol unit, Aliquippa Police won best appearing D.A.R.E. vehicle, Sewickley Police won most lighted vehicle, Armstrong County Office of the District Attorney won the best appearing unmarked vehicle, Findlay Township Police won oldest police vehicle and Ambridge Police won best appearing K9. The police car cruise was held to help benefit and support Leetsdale Police Crime Watch program. Assistant Chief Santucci is planning on making this an annual event, with each year being bigger and better than the previous year. We are looking forward to seeing everyone at next year’s cruise. Come on out and show your support and show off your police vehicles.

LEETSDALE 2008 POLICE CAR CRUISE 06/14/2008

Assistant Chief James Santucci of the Leetsdale Police Department host ...

Updated: Jul 09, 2008 3:59am EST

CARNEGIE STRUCTURE FIRE 425 3RD AVENUE 06/13/2008 ***THE LAST 34 PICTURES IN GALLERY ARE COURTESY OF MELANIE HAMMOND*** :

CARNEGIE STRUCTURE FIRE 425 3RD AVENUE 06/13/2008 ***THE LAST 34 PICTURES IN GALLERY ARE COURTESY OF MELANIE HAMMOND***

Updated: Jun 17, 2008 3:19pm EST

2008 SAXONBURG FIRE PARADE 06/12/2008 :

2008 SAXONBURG FIRE PARADE 06/12/2008

Updated: Jun 18, 2008 12:24am EST

CORAOPOLIS MEMORIAL DAY PARADE 05/26/2008 :

CORAOPOLIS MEMORIAL DAY PARADE 05/26/2008

Updated: May 27, 2008 11:57am EST

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) STANTON HEIGHTS SCHENLEY DRIVE 05/24/2008 :

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) STANTON HEIGHTS SCHENLEY DRIVE 05/24/2008

Updated: May 26, 2008 1:34am EST

HAMPTON TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 4340 WINCHESTER DRIVE 05/19/2008 :

HAMPTON TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 4340 WINCHESTER DRIVE 05/19/2008

Updated: May 20, 2008 2:01am EST

DEER LAKES SCHOOL DISTRICT (WEST DEER TOWNSHIP) S.A.D.D. MOCK DRILL 05/16/2008 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF SKIP FECSEN*** :

DEER LAKES SCHOOL DISTRICT (WEST DEER TOWNSHIP) S.A.D.D. MOCK DRILL 05/16/2008 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF SKIP FECSEN***

Updated: May 30, 2008 3:01am EST

ZELIENOPLE STRUCTURE FIRE 200 BLOCK SOUTH MAIN STREET 05/10/2008 :

ZELIENOPLE STRUCTURE FIRE 200 BLOCK SOUTH MAIN STREET 05/10/2008

Updated: Feb 12, 2009 9:24pm EST

WEST VIEW STRUCTURE FIRE 148 GEORGETOWN AVENUE 05/02/2008 :

WEST VIEW STRUCTURE FIRE 148 GEORGETOWN AVENUE 05/02/2008

Updated: May 04, 2008 9:30am EST

SHALER TOWNSHIP (CHERRY CITY) HOUSE EXPLOSION 28 JAMES STREET 04/30/2008 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHERRY CITY FIRE COMPANY*** :

SHALER TOWNSHIP (CHERRY CITY) HOUSE EXPLOSION 28 JAMES STREET 04/30/2008 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHERRY CITY FIRE COMPANY***

Updated: May 02, 2008 4:31am EST

CRAFTON STRUCTURE FIRE 10 EMERSON AVENUE 04/29/2008 :

CRAFTON STRUCTURE FIRE 10 EMERSON AVENUE 04/29/2008

Updated: Apr 30, 2008 9:59am EST

ROSS TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE SHORT STREET 04/28/2008 :

ROSS TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE SHORT STREET 04/28/2008

Updated: Apr 29, 2008 8:57am EST

ROSS TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 120 HARBETH DRIVE 04/28/2008 :

ROSS TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 120 HARBETH DRIVE 04/28/2008

Updated: Apr 28, 2008 11:53pm EST

STURGEON FIRE COMPANY (SOUTH FAYETTE) STRUCTURAL BURN CLASS 04/20/2008 :

STURGEON FIRE COMPANY (SOUTH FAYETTE) STRUCTURAL BURN CLASS 04/20/2008

Updated: Apr 22, 2008 7:46pm EST

MILLVALE STRUCTURE FIRE 420 COLTON STREET 04/15/2008 ****PHOTOS COURTESY OF JANICE CAVANAUGH**** : On Tuesday, April 15, 2008 at approximately 6:20 p.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 received a report of a house on fire, at 420 Colton Street in Millvale. All occupants were reported to have safely self evacuated. The following units were dispatched on the initial assignment; Millvale (Station 191), Bauerstown (Station 259), Etna (Station 149), Cherry City (Station 260), Aspinwall R.I.T. (Station 102), Ross/West View EMS and Millvale police. Millvale officer Vehec arrived on the scene within minutes and reported a working fire. First arriving unit reported moderate fire issuing from the Charlie side and heavy smoke pushing from the basement level and 1st division, of a two-story, wood frame residential structure, with an exposure on the Bravo side of the fire structure. First arriving Engine crew advanced a 1 ¾” attack line into the structure. Interior crews encountered heavy smoke and fire conditions in the basement of the structure, which was discovered to be the kitchen area of the residence. Interior crews initiated an aggressive attack on the fire, quickly knocking down the bulk of the fire. Additional support crews advanced a secondary attack line to the 1st division and performed ventilation operations, as well as checked for extension. Support crews found no evidence of extension into the upper divisions. Command placed the fire under control at approximately 6:50 p.m. Crews remained on the scene for an extended period of time, performing overhaul operations. The American Red Cross personnel were at the scene assisting those displaced by the fire, by providing them with food, clothing and temporary housing. The Allegheny County Fire Marshal was called to the scene to investigate the fire, which was confined to the basement/kitchen area. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

MILLVALE STRUCTURE FIRE 420 COLTON STREET 04/15/2008 ****PHOTOS COURTESY OF JANICE CAVANAUGH****

On Tuesday, April 15, 2008 at approximately 6:20 p.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 ...

Updated: Apr 16, 2008 1:48am EST

(CITY OF PTTSBURGH) SPRING GARDEN HOUSE EXPLOSION LOVITT WAY 04/11/2008 :

(CITY OF PTTSBURGH) SPRING GARDEN HOUSE EXPLOSION LOVITT WAY 04/11/2008

Updated: Apr 13, 2008 3:25am EST

HARMAR TOWNSHIP VEHICLE/STRUCTURE FIRE 421 GUYS RUN ROAD 04/08/2008 : On Tuesday, April 8, 2008 at approximately 3:12 p.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 received a report of a vehicle on fire, inside of an attached garage, at 421 Guys Run Road in Harmar Township. Additional calls came into 9-1-1, reporting smoke coming from a garage. The following units were dispatched on the initial assignment; Harmar (Station 166), Fox Chapel (Station 157), Oakmont (Station 216), Lower Valley EMS (Station 150) and Harmar Township police. Harmar Township police arrived on the scene within minutes and reported a fully involved garage and vehicle. Chief 157 arrived on the scene and reporting heavy smoke and fire issuing from a garage below a two-story brick duplex. Chief 157 requested an immediate 2nd alarm assignment. The following units were dispatched on the 2nd alarm; Blawnox (Station 111) and Aspinwall R.I.T. (Station 102). Engine 157 hit the hydrant on Guys Run at the PPG facility and laid a 5” supply line to the scene. Engine 166-4 hit the hydrant on Guys Run at the lower end of the PPG facility and laid a 5” supply line to the scene. Crew from 157 Engine advanced a 1 ¾” attack line and made an aggressive attack on the fire. Crew from 166 Engine 4 assisted the initial 157 crew, with suppression efforts on the well involved vehicle. Crews from Engine 216 and 216 Tower 3 arrived on the scene and laddered the structure and ventilated the 1st and 2nd floors, of the structure above the involved garage. Crews from 111 Engine and 111 Squad assisted with ventilation, as well as checked for extension within the structure. PPV fans were set up on the Charlie side of the structure to assist in ventilation progress. Due to accessibility problems and confined space within the garage, the vehicle was pulled out of the garage to the driveway area, away from the structure, where suppression efforts continued. Efforts to extinguish the vehicle fire with water proved futile. Engine 157 and Engine 166-4 switched to foam operations. Crews applied foam onto the vehicle, resulting in total extinguishment. Command placed the fire under control at approximately 4:25 p.m. Crews remained on the scene for an additional 45 minutes, performing overhaul operations. The fire was contained to the vehicle and the garage area; however the 1st and 2nd floor of the structure sustained smoke damage. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

HARMAR TOWNSHIP VEHICLE/STRUCTURE FIRE 421 GUYS RUN ROAD 04/08/2008

On Tuesday, April 8, 2008 at approximately 3:12 p.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 r ...

Updated: Apr 09, 2008 8:36am EST

CORAOPOLIS STRUCTURE FIRE 1722 STATE AVENUE 04/05/2008 :

CORAOPOLIS STRUCTURE FIRE 1722 STATE AVENUE 04/05/2008

Updated: Apr 06, 2008 11:53am EST

DORMONT STRUCTURE FIRE 2812 CONNECTICUT AVENUE 04/01/2008 : On Tuesday, April 01, 2008 at approximately 10:25 a.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 received reports of smoke coming from a house, at 2812 Connecticut Avenue in Dormont. The following units were dispatched on the initial assignment; Dormont (Station 130), MRTS EMS (Station 780) and Dormont police. Dormont police arrived on scene within minutes and reported heavy smoke showing from a residential structure. Chief 130 requested an immediate 2nd alarm assignment for manpower and R.I.T. The following units were dispatched on the 2nd alarm; Mt Lebanon (Station 198), Castle Shannon (Station 119) and Whitehall R.I.T. (Station 301). Engine 130-1 laid a 5” supply line from the hydrant at Potomac and Connecticut Avenues down to the scene. Truck 130 hand jacked a 5” supply line to the hydrant at Connecticut and Lasalle Avenues. Crews advanced 1 ¾” attack lines into the structure, where they encountered heavy smoke conditions. Crews initiated an aggressive attack on the fire and had a quick knock down. Interior crews began to open the walls, where they discovered that the fire was extending via the walls. Crews quickly darkened the remaining fire. Command placed the fire under control at approximately 11:47 a.m. Crews remained on the scene for an extended period of time, performing extensive overhaul operations. One firefighter was transported by EMS to St. Clair hospital, where they were treated for an ankle injury. The Allegheny County Fire Marshal was called to the scene to investigate the fire. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

DORMONT STRUCTURE FIRE 2812 CONNECTICUT AVENUE 04/01/2008

On Tuesday, April 01, 2008 at approximately 10:25 a.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 ...

Updated: Apr 01, 2008 8:32pm EST

MCDONALD (WASHINGTON COUNTY) STRUCTURAL BURN CLASS 03/29/2008 : A structural burn class was held in McDonald, Washington County, on Saturday, March 29, 2008. A series of live burn scenerios took place in a large three-story converted house, at the corner of W. Lincoln Avenue and Station Street in McDonald. Firefighters from McDonald, Midway, Mt. Pleasant Township, Cecil Township, Oakdale, Sturgeon and Moon Township, were in the class. In addition to the photos, there is also a video clip, approximately two minutes long,located on the last page of this photo gallery. On the last page, you will see an image of a video camera. Directly below the video camera image, you will see the play arrow symbol to play the video clip. Enjoy!!!

MCDONALD (WASHINGTON COUNTY) STRUCTURAL BURN CLASS 03/29/2008

A structural burn class was held in McDonald, Washington County, on Sa ...

Updated: Apr 01, 2008 8:34am EST

ALEPPO TOWNSHIP STRUCTURAL BURN CLASS 1300 GLEN MITCHELL ROAD 03/22/2008 :

ALEPPO TOWNSHIP STRUCTURAL BURN CLASS 1300 GLEN MITCHELL ROAD 03/22/2008

Updated: Mar 24, 2008 12:57pm EST

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) BEECHVIEW STRUCTURE FIRE ROCKLAND AT SEBRING 03/18/2008 :

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) BEECHVIEW STRUCTURE FIRE ROCKLAND AT SEBRING 03/18/2008

Updated: Mar 20, 2008 12:09pm EST

SHALER TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 1014 ANDERSON ROAD 03/18/2008 : On Tuesday, March 18, 2008 at approximately 2:07 p.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 received reports of a house fire at 1014 Anderson Road, in Shaler Township. The following units were dispatched on the initial assignment; Bauerstown (Station 259), Evergreen (Station 246), Mt. Troy (Station 239), Millvale (Station 191), Seville R.I.T. (Station 251), Shaler EMS (Station 170) and Shaler Township police. Shaler Township arrived on the scene within minutes and reported heavy smoke and fire showing. Officer received info that all occupants safely evacuated and were accounted for. Lieutenant 191-2 arrived on the scene shortly after the police and confirmed heavy fire and smoke issuing from the Alpha side of a two-story wood-frame residential structure. Lieutenant 191-2 reported live wires down on the road and no exposure threats. Chief 239 arrived on the scene and established Anderson Road command. Command reported that this will be a defensive attack only. Command also requested a 2nd alarm assignment at approximately 2:16 p.m. The following units were dispatched on the 2nd alarm; Berkley Hills (Station 247), Etna (Station 149), Spring Garden (Station 240), Keating (Station 252) and Cherry City (Station 260). Truck 191 was set up for aerial master stream operations on the Alpha-Bravo corner of the structure. Several large caliber attack lines were also placed into operation. Engine 259 laid a supply line from the hydrant at Wible Run and Anderson up to the scene. Engine 259 supplied Truck 191, as well as several of the attack lines. Engine 247 laid a supply line from the hydrant at Anderson and Martha down to the scene. Crews took additional attack lines off of Engine 247. Assistant 259 arrived on the scene and assumed Anderson Road command. Chief 239 was assigned to operations and 240 Chief was assigned to accountability. Assistant 259 reported a collapse on the Alpha side and heavy fire issuing from the Charlie side, divisions 1 and 2. Command requested the 2nd due R.I.T. to supplement R.I.T. 251. Aspinwall R.I.T. (Station 102) was dispatched as the supplement R.I.T. Approximately one hour into the incident, command reported that the bulk of the fire has been knocked down, crews still actively in defensive mode. At approximately 3:22 p.m. Command reported heavy interior collapse on sides Alpha and Bravo, all crews accounted for. Due to numerous hot spots under the collapsed debris, expansion foam was applied to extinguish the remaining hidden flames. Command placed the fire under control at approximately 4:25 p.m. Crews remained on the scene for an extended period of time dousing hot spots. In addition to the numerous crews operating at the scene, the following transfers were in effect; Laurel Gardens (Station 253) were placed on standby at their own station, Engine 297-1 transferred to Station 239 and Engine 265-1 transferred to Station 149. Salvation Army personnel were on the scene with their mobile canteen unit, proving food and drink to the emergency personnel. American Red Cross personnel were on the scene assisting those displaced by the fire, by providing them with food, clothing and temporary shelter. Shaler Township Fire Marshal, as well as Allegheny County Fire Marshal were called to the scene to investigate the fire, which heavily damaged the structure. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

SHALER TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 1014 ANDERSON ROAD 03/18/2008

On Tuesday, March 18, 2008 at approximately 2:07 p.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 ...

Updated: Apr 04, 2008 7:38am EST

MOON TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE AT THE MOON TOWNSHIP COMMUNITY CENTER 1700 BEAVER GRADE ROAD 03/13/2008 : On Thursday, March 13, 2008 at approximately 5:39 p.m. Moon Township dispatch center received a call from Guardian Protection, reporting a commercial fire alarm activated for the Moon Township Community Center, located at 1700 Beaver Grade Road. The following units were dispatched on the initial alarm; Moon Township (Station 197), Valley EMS and Moon Township police. Moon Township officer Kazmierczak arrived on the scene within minutes and reported an odor of smoke in the common area on the 1st floor. Upon further investigation, officer Kazmierczak reported visible smoke by the 2nd floor elevator and reported that the 3rd floor was heavily charged with smoke. Officer Kazmierczak evacuated the building and the responding fire units were updated. Upon arriving on the scene, 197 Chief assumed Community Center command and 197 Assistant Chief assumed operations. First arriving crew from Engine 1 advanced a 1 ¾” attack line through the front door and up the stairwell to the upper floor, where they encountered heavy smoke conditions. Additional crews laddered the structure with ground ladders. Interior crews quickly located the seat of the fire in a small storage/supply room located on the upper floor, on the Charlie side of the structure. Crews quickly darkened the fire and began checking for extension. Positive pressure fans were placed in operation to evacuate the smoke from the structure. Command placed the fire under control at approximately 6:10 p.m. Crews remained on the scene for an additional 45 minutes, performing overhaul operations. The fire was contained to the room of origin and is under investigation.

MOON TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE AT THE MOON TOWNSHIP COMMUNITY CENTER 1700 BEAVER GRADE ROAD 03/13/2008

On Thursday, March 13, 2008 at approximately 5:39 p.m. Moon Township d ...

Updated: Mar 14, 2008 11:38am EST

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) STRIP DISTRICT STRUCTURE FIRE 25TH AND SMALLMAN 03/11/2008 :

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) STRIP DISTRICT STRUCTURE FIRE 25TH AND SMALLMAN 03/11/2008

Updated: Mar 13, 2008 9:41am EST

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) POLISH HILL STRUCTURE FIRE 3209 DOBSON STREET 03/09/2008 :

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) POLISH HILL STRUCTURE FIRE 3209 DOBSON STREET 03/09/2008

Updated: Mar 11, 2008 4:08pm EST

ZELIENOPLE STRUCTURE FIRE VESUVIUS WAREHOUSE 50 HALSTEAD STREET 03/09/2008 :

ZELIENOPLE STRUCTURE FIRE VESUVIUS WAREHOUSE 50 HALSTEAD STREET 03/09/2008

Updated: Mar 11, 2008 1:41am EST

BELLEVUE STRUCTURE FIRE 251 GRANT AVENUE 03/06/2008 ***ADDITIONAL PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHAEL KOENEMUND*** : On Thursday, March 06, 2008 at approximately 10:53 a.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 received a report of a house on fire, at 251 Grant Avenue in Bellevue. The following units were dispatched on the initial assignment; Bellevue (Station 108), Fairview (Station 250), Avalon (Station 103), Ben Avon (Station 109 R.I.T.)and Northwest EMS (Station 192). Captain 103 Ryan Payne arrived on the scene within minutes and reported heavy smoke and fire issuing from the Alpha and Delta sides of a 3-story brick residential structure. Captain Payne reported exposures on sides Charlie and Delta. Engine 108 arrived on the scene within minutes and hit the hydrant on Ohio River and laid a supply line up to the Alpha side of the structure. Emergency personnel received information that all occupants were accounted for, however there are several dogs unaccounted for. An immediate 2nd alarm assignment was requested. The following units were dispatched on the 2nd alarm; 109 Engine 1, Seville (Station 251) and Stowe Township R.I.T. Truck 108 set up for aerial operations on the Bravo side of the structure. Engine 250 hit the hydrant on Grant at Laurel and laid a supply line to the scene. 250 Engine supplied 108 Truck, as well as several 2 ½” attack lines. Crews advanced attack lines into the structure and initiated a primary search, as well as attempting to locate the seat of the fire. Interior crew reported very heavy smoke conditions and a lot of heat, still trying to get to the main seat of the fire. Command requested West View (Station 297) for an additional aerial and manpower. At approximately 11:10 a.m. Command ordered all crews to evacuate the structure, due to rapidly deteriorating conditions. Crews set up for a full scale defensive attack, placing several large caliber attack lines and deck guns into operation. Truck 108 established aerial master stream operations on the Bravo side of the structure and Truck 297 established aerial master stream operations on the Charlie/Delta corner of the structure. Additional lines were put in operation to protect the Delta exposure, which is a commercial structure consisting of a tire business. Crews had the bulk of the fire knocked down in approximately 90 minutes. Command placed the fire under control at approximately 12:50 p.m. Crews remained on the scene for an extended period of time, performing extensive overhaul and extinguishing hot spots. During the height of the fire, Ohio River Boulevard, a main artery through the area was shutdown in both directions from the City of Pittsburgh to Emsworth, an approximate five mile stretch. Ohio River Boulevard was reopened in both directions at approximately 3:00 p.m. The three dogs could not be rescued and perished in the fast moving blaze. The Salvation Army personnel were on the scene with their mobile canteen unit, providing snacks and beverages to the emergency personnel. Arby’s employees brought sandwiches and potato cakes to the scene for the emergency personnel. In addition to the companies operating at the scene, there were several station transfers in place. Also Pittsburgh police, Avalon police, Ohio Township police and Fire Police assisted with traffic control at and around the scene. The Allegheny County Fire Marshal was called to the scene to investigate the fire, which heavily damaged the structure. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

BELLEVUE STRUCTURE FIRE 251 GRANT AVENUE 03/06/2008 ***ADDITIONAL PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHAEL KOENEMUND***

On Thursday, March 06, 2008 at approximately 10:53 a.m. Allegheny 9-1- ...

Updated: Oct 16, 2008 5:26pm EST

PLUM BORO HOUSE EXPLOSION MARDI GRAS DRIVE 03/05/2008 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHAEL KOENEMUND/ADDITIONAL PHOTOS COURTESY OF ED GAVALEK*** :

PLUM BORO HOUSE EXPLOSION MARDI GRAS DRIVE 03/05/2008 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHAEL KOENEMUND/ADDITIONAL PHOTOS COURTESY OF ED GAVALEK***

Updated: Mar 12, 2008 8:34pm EST

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) LINCOLN-LARIMER FATAL STRUCTURE FIRE 6408 WINSLOW STREET 03/04/2008 :

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) LINCOLN-LARIMER FATAL STRUCTURE FIRE 6408 WINSLOW STREET 03/04/2008

Updated: Mar 04, 2008 7:19pm EST

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) BELTZHOOVER STRUCTURE FIRE 415 CHALFONT AVENUE 03/03/2008 :

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) BELTZHOOVER STRUCTURE FIRE 415 CHALFONT AVENUE 03/03/2008

Updated: Mar 04, 2008 8:23am EST

BRADDOCK STRUCTURE FIRE 551 PINE WAY 02/27/2008 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHAEL KOENEMUND OF THE SALVATION ARMY*** :

BRADDOCK STRUCTURE FIRE 551 PINE WAY 02/27/2008 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHAEL KOENEMUND OF THE SALVATION ARMY***

Updated: Feb 29, 2008 4:55am EST

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH)NORTHSIDE STRUCTURE FIRE 1441 SANDUSKY STREET 02/10/2008 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHAEL KOENEMUND *** ADDITIONAL PHOTOS COURTESY OF "SHREK" AND "UMPA" *** :

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH)NORTHSIDE STRUCTURE FIRE 1441 SANDUSKY STREET 02/10/2008 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHAEL KOENEMUND *** ADDITIONAL PHOTOS COURTESY OF "SHREK" AND "UMPA" ***

Updated: Feb 12, 2008 2:07pm EST

MCKEES ROCKS STRUCTURE FIRE 314 HAMILTON AVENUE 02/05/2008 ***ADDITIONAL PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHAEL KOENEMUND ADDED ON 02/06/08*** :

MCKEES ROCKS STRUCTURE FIRE 314 HAMILTON AVENUE 02/05/2008 ***ADDITIONAL PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHAEL KOENEMUND ADDED ON 02/06/08***

Updated: Feb 06, 2008 5:31pm EST

AVALON VEHICLE ACCIDENT WITH ROLLOVER OHIO RIVER BOULEVARD AT FISK AVENUE 01/24/2008 :

AVALON VEHICLE ACCIDENT WITH ROLLOVER OHIO RIVER BOULEVARD AT FISK AVENUE 01/24/2008

Updated: Jan 25, 2008 4:58pm EST

NORTH VERSAILLES STRUCTURE FIRE 1083 THIRD STREET 01/23/2008 *** PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHAEL KOENEMUND OF THE SALVATION ARMY*** :

NORTH VERSAILLES STRUCTURE FIRE 1083 THIRD STREET 01/23/2008 *** PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHAEL KOENEMUND OF THE SALVATION ARMY***

Updated: Jan 24, 2008 7:49am EST

ETNA STRUCTURE FIRE 80 HAFNER AVENUE BARON INDUSTRIES 01/18/2008 ***ADDITIONAL PHOTOS ADDED 01/21/08 PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHAEL KOENEMUND OF THE SALVATION ARMY*** : On Friday, January 18, 2008 at approximately 3:50 a.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 received a report of a fire inside the warehouse at Baron Industries, located at 80 Hafner Avenue in Etna. The following units were dispatched on the initial assignment; Etna (Station 149), Cherry City (Station 260), Undercliff (Station 264), Sharpsburg (Station 265), Aspinwall (Station 102 R.I.T.), Seneca EMS (Station 160) and Etna police. Etna police arrived on the scene within minutes and reported heavy smoke showing from the structure. Fire units arrived and reported heavy smoke issuing from a large 3-story, brick, 200’x200’ industrial warehouse. First arriving crews advance attack lines into the structure, where they encountered heavy smoke and heat conditions. Truck 265 set up for aerial operations on side “A” of the structure. Command requested EMS evaluate three people who were inside the building when the fire started. Truck 264 set up on side “B” for aerial operations. Crews advanced additional attack lines into the structure and assisted the initial attack crews with suppression efforts. Interior crews reported heavy fire conditions on the 2nd and 3rd floor. Command requested a 2nd alarm assignment for additional manpower and water supply at approximately 4:02a.m. The following units were dispatched on the 2nd alarm; Millvale (Station 191). Command requested that 191 Truck take a position up on Route 28, on side “C” of the structure and set up for aerial master stream operations. Engine 191 was requested to take the hydrant at the bottom of Poplar Street and lay a supply line the wrong way up the exit ramp and supply 191 Truck. Command requested a 3rd alarm assignment for additional manpower at approximately 4:06 a.m. Command also requested two additional R.I.T. to supplement 102 R.I.T. The following units were dispatched on the 3rd alarm and special call assignment; Sharpshill (Station 263), Shaler Villa (Station 262), Mt Troy (239 R.I.T.) and Middle Road (174 R.I.T.) Command requested that 174 Engine assist 191 Engine in finishing the supply line lay up onto Route 28, as 191 dropped over 1,200 feet of supply line and it still was not enough to make the connection into 191 Truck. EMS Command requested that Parkview EMS (Station 180) and Shaler EMS (Station 170), be dispatched to have a unit from each standby at the fire scene with the Seneca unit. The fire rapidly spread via structural members and was fueled by numerous chemicals that were stored within the building. Within a short period of time, heavy fire vented through the roof and interior conditions rapidly deteriorated. Command ordered all crews to evacuate the structure and switch to defensive operations. Numerous deck guns, aerial master streams and attack lines were operating. At approximately 4:33 a.m. Command requested that the following units be dispatched and placed on standby for an impending 4th alarm assignment; Berkley Hills (Station 247), Pleasant Valley (Station 217), Parkview (Station 218) and Bauerstown (Station 259). Command reported that some of the R.I.T. is being utilized to assist with suppression efforts, so an additional R.I.T. was requested at approximately 4:48 a.m. Seville (Station 251) was dispatched to supplement the R.I.T. At approximately 4:52 a.m. Command requested that a representative from the Allegheny County Silver Hazmat Response Team respond to the scene, to evaluate the situation, due to the amount of various chemicals stored within the structure. Command deployed a few attack crews into the office and apartment sections of the large building, to make an aggressive attack on the fire within those sections of the building, to prevent fire extension into the exposure buildings. Defensive operations continued on the main body of fire as interior crews worked to darken the flames in the upper apartments. Numerous police and fire police were used to shut down Route 28 northbound due to supply lines being laid onto Route 28 as well as suppression efforts that were being conducted there. Command reported multiple floor collapses within the structure, all crews accounted for. Crews battled the blaze for over 2 hours, before they were able to knock down the bulk of the fire. Command placed the fire under control at approximately 7:45 a.m. Crews remained on the scene for an extensive period of time dousing numerous hot spots. In addition to the numerous companies operating at the scene, there were also several station fills in effect. Later in the fire operation, some of the station fills were moved to the scene for manpower to relieve crews. The Salvation Army personnel were at the scene with their mobile canteen units, providing food, as well as hot and cold beverages to the emergency personnel. They also had their bus at the scene, which was utilized as rehab providing warmth for the emergency personnel. The Allegheny County Fire Marshal was called to the scene to investigate the fire, which heavily damaged the structure. The cause of the fire is under investigationon.

ETNA STRUCTURE FIRE 80 HAFNER AVENUE BARON INDUSTRIES 01/18/2008 ***ADDITIONAL PHOTOS ADDED 01/21/08 PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHAEL KOENEMUND OF THE SALVATION ARMY***

On Friday, January 18, 2008 at approximately 3:50 a.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 ...

Updated: Jan 21, 2008 9:14am EST

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) MARSHALL-SHADELAND STRUCTURE FIRE 2800 BLOCK OF CALIFORNIA AVENUE 01/15/2008 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHAEL KOENEMUND OF THE SALVATION ARMY*** :

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) MARSHALL-SHADELAND STRUCTURE FIRE 2800 BLOCK OF CALIFORNIA AVENUE 01/15/2008 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHAEL KOENEMUND OF THE SALVATION ARMY***

Updated: Jan 24, 2008 7:58am EST

END RESULTS OF MULTI-JURISDICTIONAL POLICE PURSUIT FROM THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH TO CRANBERRY TOWNSHIP 01/06/2008 : On Sunday, January 06, 2008, City of Pittsburgh Zone 2 police unit 3222 responded to a report of a suspicious, occupied vehicle in a neighborhood. Upon arriving, the suspect vehicle fled from the officer, leading the officer on a pursuit through a portion of zone 2, into zone 5 on Penn Avenue, through East Liberty and Point Breeze. The suspect vehicle then turned onto South Braddock Avenue, with zone 2 and zone 5 units right behind him. The chase briefly entered zone 4 passing Frick Park and continuing on South Braddock Avenue into Edgewood. Edgewood police briefly joined the pursuit as the vehicle continued through Edgewood on South Braddock Avenue before getting onto the Parkway East (376) inbound. The vehicle continued on the Parkway...through the Squirrel Hill Tunnels to the 279 Northshore exit onto Fort Pitt Boulevard and onto 279 Northbound passing PNC Park. The suspect vehicle continued northbound out of the city limits, with the Pittsburgh Police units and Pennsylvania State Police units right on his tail. Ross Township, West View and Ohio Township police were notified that the pursuit was proceeding through their jurisdictions. Somewhere in the vicinity of the Perrysville exit, the suspect vehicle was hit with stop sticks, believed to be deployed by West View police. The vehicle continued northbound on 279 passing the Bellevue/West View exit, as the front tires on the vehicle started deflating fron hitting the spike strips. The Chase continued northbound as the suspect vehicle, now riding on its front rims, sparks flying and still refusing to give up. Franklin Park and Northern Regional police departments were notified that the chase was continuing towards the 279/79 split and would be entering their jurisdictions. Finally, the suspect vehicle rolled to a stop on the hillside off of exit 77 on I79 at the Cranberry Township connector, with the front bumper and other parts falling off of the badly beat suspect vehicle. As a last ditch effort, the suspect attempted to bail from what was left of his ride, and try to make it a foot chase. However the zone 4 K-9 wasn't having any foot chase....the K-9 quickly brought down the suspect with a little nibble and he was taken into custody. There were no injuries to officers or civilian motorist during the chase. Kudos to all officers involved in this 45 minute chase....Good Guys = 1, Bad Guys = 0.

END RESULTS OF MULTI-JURISDICTIONAL POLICE PURSUIT FROM THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH TO CRANBERRY TOWNSHIP 01/06/2008

On Sunday, January 06, 2008, City of Pittsburgh Zone 2 police unit 322 ...

Updated: Jan 06, 2008 11:39pm EST

STOWE TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 927 RUSSELLWOOD AVENUE 01/05/2008 : On Saturday, January 05, 2008 at approximately 5:20 a.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 received a report of a kitchen fire at 927 ½ Russellwood Avenue in Stowe Township. The following units were dispatched on the initial assignment; West Park (Station 276), Fleming Park (Station 275), Ben Avon (Station 109), Northwest EMS (Station 191) and Stowe Township police. Stowe Township officer Gruber arrived on the scene within minutes, and reported heavy smoke showing from a row house. Officer Gruber verified that all occupants had safely evacuated. Chief 276 arrived on the scene approximately the same time as officer Gruber and confirmed a “working fire”. Chief 276 requested that 276 Truck take a hydrant at Knox and Russellwood and lay out to side “A” of the structure and requested that 276 Engine take a hydrant and lay to side “C” of the structure. Stowe Township Fire Chief Gallagher arrived on the scene and reported heavy fire in two units, of a six unit, two-story brick row house. An immediate 2nd and 3rd alarm was requested, as well as a special call for an additional truck. The following units were dispatched to fulfill the alarm assignments and special call; Emsworth (Station 148), Presston (Station 277) and McKees Rocks (189 Truck). Crews advanced attack lines into the original fire building, where they encountered very heavy smoke and fire conditions. Crews initiated an aggressive attack on the fire. Additional crews worked on venting the roof and working on protecting the exposure units. Additional attack crews assisted interior crews with suppression efforts. Crew from 109 Engine and 109 Rescue, who were initially assigned to R.I.T. operations were moved to assist with suppression and the crew from 148, were assigned to R.I.T. The fire rapidly spread via structural members within the balloon construction. Interior crews continued to aggressively attack the fire, as support crews opened the walls and pulled the ceilings to expose any hidden fire, in efforts of containing the fire and preventing it from spreading into the remaining units of the row house. Crews had the main body of fire knocked down within an hour and continued checking for extension. Command placed the fire under control at approximately 7:15 a.m. Crews remained on the scene for an extended period of time, performing extensive overhaul operations and dousing hot spots. The Salvation Army Personnel were on scene with their mobile canteen unit, providing hot and cold drinks and food to the emergency personnel. Salvation Army also had their bus on the scene, which was used as rehab for the fire victims and the emergency personnel. Representatives from Lynn’s café, a local eatery, were at the scene providing breakfast sandwiches to the emergency personnel. The American Red Cross personnel were on the scene assisting the several families who were displaced by the fire, by providing them with food, clothing and temporary housing. The Allegheny County Fire Marshal was called to the scene to investigate the fire, which heavily damaged the row house. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

STOWE TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 927 RUSSELLWOOD AVENUE 01/05/2008

On Saturday, January 05, 2008 at approximately 5:20 a.m. Allegheny 9-1 ...

Updated: Jan 06, 2008 8:13am EST

WEST DEER TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 4008 CRESTWOOD DRIVE 01/02/2008 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHELLE SIMON WEST DEER #1*** : On Wednesday, January 02, 2008 at approximately 9:30 p.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 received a report of a residential fire alarm activation from an alarm monitoring center, for 4008 Crestwood Drive in West Deer Township. The following units were dispatched on the initial alarm; West Deer #3 (Station 290), West Deer #2 (Station 289), West Deer #1 (Station 288), West Deer EMS (Station 240) and West Deer police. A few minutes after dispatch, Allegheny 9-1-1 received a call from a neighbor on Crestwood Drive, reporting fire blowing out of the rear of 4008 Crestwood, unknown if occupied or not. Responding units were updated and an immediate 2nd alarm assignment was requested. The following units were dispatched on the 2nd alarm; North Hampton (Station 165) and Richland (Station 241). First arriving units found heavy fire and smoke issuing from side “C” of a one-story ranch residential. Crews advanced attack lines and initiated an aggressive attack on the fire. Additional crews made a primary search with negative results. Command received information that all occupants were accounted for, allowing crews to concentrate on suppression efforts. Crews not only had to battle the intense flames, but the freezing temperatures as well. Port Authority brought a heated bus to the scene to be used for rehab for the emergency personnel. Salvation Army personnel also were on the scene with their mobile canteen unit, providing hot and cold drinks and food to the emergency personnel. The bulk of the fire was knocked down and the fire was placed under control in approximately 45 minutes. Crews remained on the scene for an extended period of time, performing extensive overhaul operations and extinguishing hot spots. The Allegheny County Fire Marshal was called to the scene to investigate the fire, which heavily damaged the house. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

WEST DEER TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 4008 CRESTWOOD DRIVE 01/02/2008 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHELLE SIMON WEST DEER #1***

On Wednesday, January 02, 2008 at approximately 9:30 p.m. Allegheny 9- ...

Updated: Jan 16, 2008 9:33am EST

MCKEES ROCKS STRUCTURE FIRE 319 HAMILTON STREET 12/27/2007 :

MCKEES ROCKS STRUCTURE FIRE 319 HAMILTON STREET 12/27/2007

Updated: Dec 28, 2007 6:23pm EST

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) BRIGHTON HEIGHTS STRUCTURE FIRE 1065 SMITHTON STREET 12/26/2007 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF ASSISTANT FIRE CHIEF JAMES CRAWFORD PITTSBURGH BUREAU OF FIRE*** :

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) BRIGHTON HEIGHTS STRUCTURE FIRE 1065 SMITHTON STREET 12/26/2007 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF ASSISTANT FIRE CHIEF JAMES CRAWFORD PITTSBURGH BUREAU OF FIRE***

Updated: Dec 28, 2007 2:06am EST

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) POINT BREEZE STRUCTURE FIRE 216 NORTH LINDEN AVENUE 12/15/2007 : On Saturday, December 15, 2007 at approximately 1:52 p.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 received multiple calls reporting a structure fire at 216 North Linden Avenue, in the Point Breeze section of the City of Pittsburgh. The following units were dispatched on the zone 3-15 assignment; 17 Engine, 15 Engine, 18 Engine, 17 Truck, 4023 (District Battalion Chief), 19 Engine (Go Team), 4022 (Safety Chief), MAC-2 (Mobile Cascade Unit), Rescue Truck and a Medic Unit. First arriving unit reported a fully involved structure, with exposures on sides “B” and “D”. An immediate 2nd alarm assignment was requested. The following units were dispatched on the 2nd alarm; 8 Engine, 12 Engine, 8 Truck, 402 (Deputy Chief) and 614 (Training Academy Chief). Crews immediately initiated a defensive attack on the involved structure. Crews also aggressively worked on protecting the two immediate exposures. Crews made a primary search of both exposure structures. Command requested a 3rd alarm assignment for manpower and water supply at approximately 2:15 p.m. The following units were dispatched on the 3rd alarm; 7 Engine, 10 Engine, unit 40 (Assistant Chief) and unit 42 (Assistant Chief). The fire had extended into the two exposure structures, however crews were able to quickly knock down the fire in the exposure structures and minimize further damage and extension. Command reported a collapse of the main fire building at approximately 2:35 p.m. Command reported that all crews were accounted for. This was the first working structure fire for 7 Engine, since they received their new KME Engine. The class A foam system on 7 Engine was put to use, to snuff out the fire that was still burning under the collapsed debris of the involved structure. Command placed the fire under control at approximately 3:00 p.m. Crews remained on the scene for an extended period of time dousing numerous hot spots. Salvation Army personnel were on the scene providing hot beverages and snacks to the firefighters, who not only were battling the flames, but the freezing temperatures and a little snow storm. The City of Pittsburgh Arson Squad was called to the scene to investigate the fire, which completely destroyed the building of origin and damaged the exposures.

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) POINT BREEZE STRUCTURE FIRE 216 NORTH LINDEN AVENUE 12/15/2007

On Saturday, December 15, 2007 at approximately 1:52 p.m. Allegheny 9- ...

Updated: Dec 15, 2007 7:41pm EST

AVALON STRUCTURE FIRE 727-A CENTER AVENUE 12/10/2007 : On Monday, December 10, 2007 at approximately 3:50 p.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 received a report of the 2nd floor of a house on fire at 727-A Center Avenue in Avalon. The following units were dispatched on the initial assignment; Avalon (Station 103), Bellevue (Station 108), Kilbuck (Station 182), West View #3 (Station 297-30) and Northwest EMS (Station 192). First arriving unit reported smoke showing from the 2nd floor of a two-story brick duplex, all occupants accounted for. Command requested that R.I.T. be notified. Seville (Station 251 R.I.T.) and Mount Troy (Station 239 R.I.T.) were dispatched. First arriving crews advanced 1 ¾” attack lines into the structure and ascended the stairs to the 2nd floor, where they encountered heavy smoke and heat. Command requested a 2nd alarm assignment at approximately 3:58 p.m. Ben Avon (Station 109) and Emsworth (Station 148) were dispatched on the 2nd alarm. Crews located the seat of the fire in a 2nd floor bedroom and made an aggressive attack, quickly knocking down the bulk of the fire. Support crews pulled ceilings and checked the exposure unit for fire extension. Command placed the fire under control at approximately 4:20 p.m. Crews remained on the scene for an extended period of time, performing overhaul operations. Salvation Army personnel were on the scene with their mobile canteen unit, providing drinks and snacks to the emergency personnel. The American Red Cross personnel were on the scene assisting those displaced by the fire, by providing them with food, clothing and temporary housing. The Allegheny County Fire Marshal was called to the scene to investigate the fire. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

AVALON STRUCTURE FIRE 727-A CENTER AVENUE 12/10/2007

On Monday, December 10, 2007 at approximately 3:50 p.m. Allegheny 9-1- ...

Updated: Dec 11, 2007 9:51am EST

MIDDLESEX BARN FIRES AT THE FOUR SEASON GAME BIRD FARM 11/29/2007 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHELLE SIMON WEST DEER #1 *** :

MIDDLESEX BARN FIRES AT THE FOUR SEASON GAME BIRD FARM 11/29/2007 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHELLE SIMON WEST DEER #1 ***

Updated: Dec 09, 2007 8:14pm EST

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH)HOMEWOOD STRUCTURE FIRE HAMILTON AVENUE 12/01/2007 :

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH)HOMEWOOD STRUCTURE FIRE HAMILTON AVENUE 12/01/2007

Updated: Dec 02, 2007 2:36pm EST

ALIQUIPPA STRUCTURE FIRE FRANKLIN AVENUE 11/29/2007 :

ALIQUIPPA STRUCTURE FIRE FRANKLIN AVENUE 11/29/2007

Updated: Nov 30, 2007 12:26am EST

AMBRIDGE STRUCTURE FIRE MERCHANT STREET GEORGE'S APPLIANCES 11/25/2007 :

AMBRIDGE STRUCTURE FIRE MERCHANT STREET GEORGE'S APPLIANCES 11/25/2007

Updated: Nov 26, 2007 8:24am EST

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) OAKLAND STRUCTURE FIRE 3461 DAWSON STREET 11/23/2007 :

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) OAKLAND STRUCTURE FIRE 3461 DAWSON STREET 11/23/2007

Updated: Nov 24, 2007 5:24pm EST

OAKDALE LIVE BURN STRUCTURAL CLASS 6121 NOBLESTOWN ROAD 11/17/2007 :

OAKDALE LIVE BURN STRUCTURAL CLASS 6121 NOBLESTOWN ROAD 11/17/2007

Updated: Nov 23, 2007 10:44pm EST

BRADDOCK HILLS STRUCTURE FIRE 1000 BLOCK OF DELAWARE AVENUE 11/11/2007 **PHOTOS COURTESY OF JONATHAN PLUTNICKI** :

BRADDOCK HILLS STRUCTURE FIRE 1000 BLOCK OF DELAWARE AVENUE 11/11/2007 **PHOTOS COURTESY OF JONATHAN PLUTNICKI**

Updated: Nov 13, 2007 8:01pm EST

GLASSPORT STRUCTURE FIRE 608 OHIO AVENUE 11/09/2007 **PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHAEL KOENEMUND** :

GLASSPORT STRUCTURE FIRE 608 OHIO AVENUE 11/09/2007 **PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHAEL KOENEMUND**

Updated: Nov 13, 2007 7:54pm EST

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) POLISH HILL STRUCTURE FIRE 3109 BRERETON STREET 11/07/2007**ADDITIONAL PHOTOS COUTRESY OF PGH ARSON SQUAD & MICHAEL KOENEMUND** : On Wednesday, November 07, 2007 at approximately 1:52 p.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 received reports of a structure fire at 3109 Brereton Street, located in the Polish Hill neighborhood of the City of Pittsburgh. The following units were dispatched on the zone 3-2 assignment; 6 Engine, 3 Engine, 32 Engine, 6 Truck, 4043 (District Battalion Chief), 10 Engine (Go Team), 4041 (Safety Chief), MAC-2 (Mobile Cascade Unit), Rescue Truck and Medic unit. Medics arrived on the scene within minutes and reported a structure fully involved with several exposure threats. First arriving fire unit reported heavy fire from all three floors front to rear, of the middle unit, of a 3-story wood frame row house, with immediate exposures on sides “B” and “D”. Emergency personnel were informed that all occupants of the fire building, as well as the exposures, were accounted for. An immediate 2nd and 3rd alarm was requested for manpower and water supply. The following units were dispatched on the 2nd alarm; 7 Engine, 4 Engine, 32 Truck, 404 (Deputy Chief Walz) and 614 (Training Academy Chief Cox). The following units were dispatched on the 3rd alarm; 27 Engine, 38 Engine, 40 (Assistant Chief Deleonibus), 42 (Assistant Chief Crawford and Official 4 (Fire Chief Jones). First arriving crews attempted to initiate an interior attack, but were forced to retreat due to heavy fire conditions. Crews switched to a defensive attack, placing several large caliber attack lines, deck guns and aerial master streams into operation. Crews operating on side “C”, where heavy fire was issuing from all floors and impinging on the exposure structure on side “B”, experienced low water pressure. Heavy winds and a common roof contributed to the rapid spread of the fire. The crew from 6 Truck was assigned to ventilate the roof of the side “C” exposure in efforts to stop the fire from further extension. The roof crew made a successful trench cut, thus preventing additional extension. Command requested a 4th alarm assignment for additional manpower and water supply at approximately 2:28 p.m. The following units were dispatched on the 4th alarm; 12 Engine and 18 Engine. Command requested a 5th alarm for manpower at approximately 2:36 p.m. The following units were dispatched on the 5th alarm; 30 Engine, 24 Engine and 4 Truck. Command requested a 2nd Go Team be dispatched and assigned to side “C” of the structures. 8 Engine was dispatched as the additional Go Team at 2:50 p.m. With numerous attack lines and master streams in operation, crews had the main body of fire knocked down within an hour. A chimney and roof collapse occurred in the original fire building at approximately 3:00 p.m. All crews were accounted for and a collapse zone was established. Crews knocked down the bulk of the fire in the original fire building as well as the exposure structures. Crews were deployed into the exposure structures to pull ceilings and check for further extension. Command placed the fire under control at approximately 3:48 p.m. Crews remained on the scene for an extended period of time, dousing numerous hot spots and extensive overhaul operations. An Engine crew was assigned to a fire watch detail throughout the evening and night, in the event of a rekindle. Two firefighters sustained minor injuries, while battling the Polish Hill inferno. Salvation Army personnel were on the scene with their mobile canteen units, providing food and drinks to the emergency personnel. American Red Cross personnel were at the scene assisting those displaced by the fire, by providing them with food, clothing and temporary housing. The City of Pittsburgh Arson Squad was called to the scene to investigate the fire, which caused heavy damage to 3107 and 3109 Brereton, smoke and water damage to 3111 Brereton and roof damage from ventilation to 3105 Brereton Street. Damages were estimated at $120,000. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) POLISH HILL STRUCTURE FIRE 3109 BRERETON STREET 11/07/2007**ADDITIONAL PHOTOS COUTRESY OF PGH ARSON SQUAD & MICHAEL KOENEMUND**

On Wednesday, November 07, 2007 at approximately 1:52 p.m. Allegheny 9 ...

Updated: Nov 09, 2007 4:41pm EST

MCKEES ROCKS STRUCTURE FIRE ISLAND & BRADLEY 11/03/2007 **PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHAEL KOENEMUND AND BRIAN CRAIG** :

MCKEES ROCKS STRUCTURE FIRE ISLAND & BRADLEY 11/03/2007 **PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHAEL KOENEMUND AND BRIAN CRAIG**

Updated: Nov 09, 2007 12:38am EST

MILLVALE STRUCTURE FIRE STANTON AVENUE 11/01/2007 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF JANICE CAVANAUGH*** :

MILLVALE STRUCTURE FIRE STANTON AVENUE 11/01/2007 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF JANICE CAVANAUGH***

Updated: Nov 02, 2007 1:26am EST

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) ROCHELLE STREET STRUCTURE FIRE 10/29/2007 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHAEL KOENEMUND*** :

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) ROCHELLE STREET STRUCTURE FIRE 10/29/2007 ***PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHAEL KOENEMUND***

Updated: Oct 30, 2007 7:55am EST

FOREST HILLS STRUCTURE FIRE ARDMORE BOULEVARD 10/25/2007 **PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHAEL KOENEMUND** :

FOREST HILLS STRUCTURE FIRE ARDMORE BOULEVARD 10/25/2007 **PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHAEL KOENEMUND**

Updated: Nov 09, 2007 12:03am EST

BLAWNOX STRUCTURE FIRE BLAWNOX HIGH-RISE 701 CENTER AVENUE 10/17/2007 :

BLAWNOX STRUCTURE FIRE BLAWNOX HIGH-RISE 701 CENTER AVENUE 10/17/2007

Updated: Oct 17, 2007 8:10pm EST

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) MANCHESTER STRUCTURE FIRE 1400 BLOCK OF ADAMS STREET 10/13/2007 :

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) MANCHESTER STRUCTURE FIRE 1400 BLOCK OF ADAMS STREET 10/13/2007

Updated: Oct 13, 2007 5:59am EST

SPRINGDALE BOROUGH STRUCTURE FIRE JASMINE ANIMAL HOSPITAL PITTSBURGH STREET 10/11/2007 :

SPRINGDALE BOROUGH STRUCTURE FIRE JASMINE ANIMAL HOSPITAL PITTSBURGH STREET 10/11/2007

Updated: Oct 12, 2007 6:03pm EST

BELLEVUE VEHICLE ACCIDENT 4500 BLOCK OF OHIO RIVER BOULEVARD 10/08/2007 ***PHOTOS PROVIDED BY BRIAN CRAIG*** :

BELLEVUE VEHICLE ACCIDENT 4500 BLOCK OF OHIO RIVER BOULEVARD 10/08/2007 ***PHOTOS PROVIDED BY BRIAN CRAIG***

Updated: Oct 12, 2007 11:39am EST

EDGEWOOD STRUCTURE FIRE 111 MAPLE 09/29/2007 ****THESE PHOTOS ARE UNEDITED**** : On Saturday, September 29, 2007 at approximately 3:19 p.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 received several reports of a fire in a multi-unit apartment building, located at 111 Maple Avenue in Edgewood. Occupants were in the process of evacuating the structure. The following units were dispatched on the initial assignment; Edgewood (Station 137), Swissvale (Engine 278 and Engine 279), Rankin (Engine 238), Forest Hills (Truck 153), Eastern Area EMS (Station 310) and Edgewood police. Edgewood police arrived on the scene within minutes and reported heavy smoke showing, with visible flames on side “C”. Captain 137 arrived on the scene within minutes an requested an immediate 2nd alarm assignment. The following units were dispatched on the 2nd alarm; Braddock Hills (Engine 114), Swissvale (Engine 279-2), Forest Hills (Rescue 158), Braddock (Rescue 113), Homestead (R.I.T. 171). Captain 137 reported heavy smoke and fire issuing from a 3-story multi-unit brick apartment building. Chief 137 arrived on the scene a short time later and assumed command. Engine 137 was the first Engine to arrive on the scene. 137 Engine hit the hydrant with a 5" supply line and layed in. Engine 137 was used as the primary Engine to pump on side "D". Crews advanced numerous attack lines in efforts to make an aggressive attack on the rapidly spreading flames. Interior crews encountered heavy fire and smoke conditions. Truck 153 was positioned on the “A”/”D” corner of the structure and set up for aerial operations. Command requested a 3rd alarm assignment for manpower and additional water supply at approximately 3:30 p.m. The following units were dispatched on the 3rd alarm; Munhall #5 (Station 204), Munhall #2 (Station 201), West Homestead (Station 292), North Braddock (207 Engine) and Swissvale (Truck 278). Command requested that Truck 204 and Truck 278 take a position on side “C” and set up for aerial operations. Interior crews reported heavy fire conditions already above them and throughout the 1st floor. With interior conditions rapidly deteriorating, command ordered all crews to evacuate the structure and the side “B” fire escape at approximately 3:45 p.m. PAR check was given and all crews were accounted for. With all crews safely out of the well involved structure, which had already self vented through the roof, command switched to a full scale defensive attack. Several aerial master streams were put into operation on sides “A” and “C”, also numerous large caliber attack lines and deck guns were also utilized during the defensive attack. Command reported a collapse of two of the chimneys on side “B” of the structure at approximately 4:18 p.m. Command advises all crews accounted for at this time. There was a loss of water pressure several times during the height of the incident. Representatives from the water company responded to the scene to rectify the water issue. With copious amounts of water being flowed into and onto the burning structure, crews had the main body of fire knocked down within two hours. However, crews continued to douse numerous hot spots and heavy pockets of fire under debris of collapsed structural members. Command placed the fire under control at approximately 7:30 p.m. Crews remained on the scene for an extensive period of time dousing numerous hot spots and overhaul operations. Salvation Army personnel were on the scene with their mobile canteen units, providing food and drinks to the emergency personnel. American Red Cross personnel were on the scene assisting the numerous occupants who were displaced by the fire, by providing them with food, clothing and temporary shelter. The Allegheny County Fire Marshal was called to the scene to investigate the fire, which extensively damaged the building. There were a couple of minor injuries reported. The injured were evaluated by EMS personnel and transported to local hospitals for treatment. In addition to the numerous companies operating at the scene, numerous companies were on standby for the committed companies, they included; Thad Stevens (Penn Hills station 225), Point Breeze (Penn Hills station 224), Penn Hills #7 (Station 227), Pleasant Hills (Station 232), Munhall #2 (Station 201), Whitaker (Station 298), Baldwin Independent (Station 105) and Wilkins Twp #3 (Station 303).

EDGEWOOD STRUCTURE FIRE 111 MAPLE 09/29/2007 ****THESE PHOTOS ARE UNEDITED****

On Saturday, September 29, 2007 at approximately 3:19 p.m. Allegheny 9 ...

Updated: Sep 29, 2007 10:10pm EST

CORAOPOLIS STRUCTURE FIRE FERREE AT OAK ALLEY 09/29/2007 ****THESE PHOTOS ARE UNEDITED**** :

CORAOPOLIS STRUCTURE FIRE FERREE AT OAK ALLEY 09/29/2007 ****THESE PHOTOS ARE UNEDITED****

Updated: Sep 30, 2007 8:51pm EST

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) HILL DISTRICT STRUCTURE FIRE WEBSTER AVENUE 09/26/2007 :

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) HILL DISTRICT STRUCTURE FIRE WEBSTER AVENUE 09/26/2007

Updated: Sep 27, 2007 8:44am EST

BLAWNOX STRUCTURE FIRE CI-CI'S PIZZA FREEPORT ROAD 09/26/2007 ***PHOTOS PROVIDED BY DAN BARR*** :

BLAWNOX STRUCTURE FIRE CI-CI'S PIZZA FREEPORT ROAD 09/26/2007 ***PHOTOS PROVIDED BY DAN BARR***

Updated: Oct 02, 2007 9:08pm EST

VEHICLE FIRE ALONG A FLORIDA HIGHWAY ***PHOTO PROVIDED BY A FRIEND...THANK YOU!!!*** :

VEHICLE FIRE ALONG A FLORIDA HIGHWAY ***PHOTO PROVIDED BY A FRIEND...THANK YOU!!!***

Updated: Aug 30, 2007 9:15pm EST

WILKINSBURG STRUCTURE FIRE 736 PENN AVENUE :

WILKINSBURG STRUCTURE FIRE 736 PENN AVENUE

Updated: Aug 03, 2007 7:05pm EST

BRENTWOOD HOUSE EXPLOSION/FIRE 4100 TUXEY AVENUE 07/31/2007 : Brentwood, PA – On Tuesday, July 31, 2007 at approximately 6:48 p.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 received multiple reports of an explosion and fire, at 4100 Tuxey Avenue in Brentwood. The following companies were dispatched on the initial assignment; Brentwood (Station 116), Whitehall (Station 301), Pleasant Hills (Station 232), South Baldwin R.I.T. (Station 104), Brentwood EMS (Station 530) and Brentwood police. Brentwood officers Delallo and Harding arrived on the scene within minutes and reported a “fully involved” duplex with one male victim badly burned. Officers requested EMS expedite and requested that Whitehall and Baldwin police assist them with traffic control. Brentwood EMS OIC requested that Baldwin EMS (Station 510) be dispatched to assist them at the fire scene. Chief 301 arrived on the scene moments after police and EMS and reported a fully involved two-story brick duplex, with partial collapse as a result of the explosion. Command advised that it would be a defensive attack only and requested that the first in engine take a hydrant with a 5” supply line and immediately set up deck gun operations. Crews also placed several 2 ½” attack lines into operation on sides “A”, “B” and “C”. Crews operating on side “C” reported a partial collapse, all crews accounted for. EMS personnel rendered aid to the badly burned male victim and transported him to Mercy Hospital in Pittsburgh. With numerous large caliber attack lines and deck guns in operation, crews had the bulk of the heavy fire knocked down within 30 minutes. Command placed the fire under control at approximately 7:45 p.m. Crews remained on the scene for an extended period of time, extinguishing hot spots and assisting investigators. There were transfers in effect to cover for units that were committed at the fire scene; Baldwin Independent (Station 105) transferred to station 116 and Option (Station 107) was on standby at their station for station 104’s area. Salvation Army personnel were at the scene with the mobile canteen unit, providing cold drinks, snacks and cold wet towels to the emergency personnel. The Allegheny County Fire Marshal was called to the scene to investigate the fire, which completely destroyed the duplex and left the sole male occupant badly burned and in critical condition. The cause of the explosion and fire is under investigation.

BRENTWOOD HOUSE EXPLOSION/FIRE 4100 TUXEY AVENUE 07/31/2007

Brentwood, PA – On Tuesday, July 31, 2007 at approximately 6:48 p.m. ...

Updated: Aug 01, 2007 3:52pm EST

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) BRIGHTON HEIGHTS STRUCTURE FIRE 3326 GASS AVENUE 07/31/2007 : Pittsburgh, PA – On Tuesday, July 31, 2007 at approximately 12:37 p.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 received multiple calls reporting a structure fire at 3326 Gass Avenue, located in the Brighton Heights section of the City of Pittsburgh. The following units were dispatched on the initial assignment; 35 Engine, 37 Engine, 34 Engine, 34 Truck, 4011 (District Battalion Chief), 30 Engine (Go Team), 4014 (Safety Chief), MAC-2 (Mobile Cascade Unit), Rescue 2 and a Medic unit. City of Pittsburgh Zone 1 Police OIC arrived on the scene within minutes and confirmed a working structure fire, all occupants are accounted for. 35 Engine arrived on the scene and reported heavy fire and smoke issuing from side “C” of at least two, 2 ½ story wood frame residential structures with immediate exposure problems. Command requested an immediate 2nd alarm assignment. The following units were dispatched on the 2nd alarm; 4 Engine, 32 Engine, 32 Truck, 401 (Deputy Chief) and 614 (Training Academy Chief). 35 Engine positioned on side “A” of the structures, 34 Engine and 34 Truck were positioned on Stokes Way, on side “B” of the structure. 34 Truck set up for aerial operations and 34 Engine set up deck gun operations. Crews placed several large caliber attack lines in operation. Crews set up an attack line on the side “D” exposure, in efforts to protect it from the radiant heat. Crews had the bulk of the fire knocked down within 30 minutes. Command placed the fire under control at approximately 1:25 p.m. Crews remained on the scene for an extended period of time, extinguishing hot spots. Salvation Army personnel were on the scene with their mobile canteen unit, providing cold drinks and snacks to the emergency personnel. The City of Pittsburgh Arson Squad was called to the scene to investigate the fire, which damaged three residential structures. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) BRIGHTON HEIGHTS STRUCTURE FIRE 3326 GASS AVENUE 07/31/2007

Pittsburgh, PA – On Tuesday, July 31, 2007 at approximately 12:37 p.m ...

Updated: Aug 01, 2007 3:02am EST

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) EAST LIBERTY STRUCTURE FIRE EAST LIBERTY BOULEVARD 07/30/2007 : Pittsburgh, PA – On Monday, July 30, 2007 at approximately 5:59 a.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 received a report of smoke coming from the roof of an abandoned building, located at the intersection of East Liberty Boulevard and Borland Street, in the East Liberty section of the City of Pittsburgh. The following units were dispatched on the initial assignment; 8 Engine, 7 Engine, 6 Engine, 8 Truck, 4033 (District Battalion Chief), 17 Engine (Go Team), 4032 (Safety Chief), MAC-2 (Mobile Cascade Unit), Rescue 1 and a Medic unit. First arriving unit reported heavy smoke issuing from the roof of a three-story brick vacant apartment building. Command reported that this was the same structure of an earlier overnight fire. Crews set up for defensive operations, utilizing deck guns, aerial master stream and attack lines. The fire quickly made headway, with heavy fire conditions evident on the upper floor and roof area. Command requested a 2nd alarm assignment at approximately 6:30 a.m. The following units were dispatched on the 2nd alarm; 18 Engine, 3 Engine, 6 Truck, 403 (Deputy Chief) and 614 (Training Academy Chief). Engine 7 was set up for deck gun operations on side “B”, 8 Truck was set up for aerial operations on the A/B corner of the structure. Upon arriving on the scene, 6 Truck was set up for aerial operations on side “A”. Heavy fire and thick smoke continued to vent from the roof and the upper floor on sides “A” and “B”. Command requested a 3rd alarm for additional manpower at approximately 6:55 a.m. The following units were dispatched on the 3rd alarm; 32 Engine, 15 Engine and unit 40 (Assistant Fire Chief). At approximately 7:25 a.m. Command reported still heavy smoke from the roof and upper floor of the structure. Command reported multiple lines trained on the fire at this time, in the process of obtaining additional water supply from 3 Engine. At approximately 7:50 a.m. Command reported that operations would be shut down for a brief period of time, while 7 Engine and 8 Truck could be repositioned away from the “B” side of the structure, as the wall was weak and the probability of collapse was great. Command placed the fire under control at approximately 8:13 a.m. Crews remained on the scene for a period of time dousing numerous hot spots. Salvation Army personnel were on the scene providing emergency personnel with drinks and snacks. The City of Pittsburgh Arson Squad was called to the scene to investigate the fire, which heavily damaged the building. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) EAST LIBERTY STRUCTURE FIRE EAST LIBERTY BOULEVARD 07/30/2007

Pittsburgh, PA – On Monday, July 30, 2007 at approximately 5:59 a.m. ...

Updated: Jul 31, 2007 5:19pm EST

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) HOMEWOOD-BRUSHTON STRUCTURE FIRE 7416 HERMITAGE STREET 07/27/2007 :

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) HOMEWOOD-BRUSHTON STRUCTURE FIRE 7416 HERMITAGE STREET 07/27/2007

Updated: Jul 29, 2007 9:06am EST

WILKINSBURG STRUCTURE FIRE 902 JAMES STREET 07/27/2007 : Wilkinsburg, PA – On Friday, July 27, 2007 at approximately 6:36 a.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 received a report of smoke in the area on James Street in Wilkinsburg. The following units were dispatched on the initial assignment; Wilkinsburg (Station 305) and Wilkinsburg police. Within minutes after the initial dispatch, additional calls were received at the 9-1-1 center, reporting smoke coming from the roof and flames from the windows of a house, located at the intersection of James and Cresson. Responding units were updated and Eastern Area EMS were added to the assignment. First arriving unit reported a working fire on the 2nd floor of a two-story wood frame residential structure, with possible entrapment. Within a minute command confirmed that all occupants were accounted for. Crews advanced attack lines into the house and to the 2nd floor via interior stairs. Crews encountered heavy fire and smoke conditions. An aggressive attack was initiated and the bulk of the fire was quickly darkened. Command placed the fire under control at approximately 7:00 a.m. Crews remained on the scene for a period of time, performing overhaul operations. The Allegheny County Fire Marshal was called to the scene to investigate the fire. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

WILKINSBURG STRUCTURE FIRE 902 JAMES STREET 07/27/2007

Wilkinsburg, PA – On Friday, July 27, 2007 at approximately 6:36 a.m. ...

Updated: Jul 27, 2007 6:00pm EST

OHIO TOWNSHIP FIRE COMPANY ANNUAL PARADE 07/20/2007 :

OHIO TOWNSHIP FIRE COMPANY ANNUAL PARADE 07/20/2007

Updated: Jul 22, 2007 6:30pm EST

20TH ANNUAL PITTSBURGH FIRE RESCUE & EMS EXPO HANDS ON EDUCATION: RIT LARGE AREA SEARCH OPERATIONS 07/14/2007 :

20TH ANNUAL PITTSBURGH FIRE RESCUE & EMS EXPO HANDS ON EDUCATION: RIT LARGE AREA SEARCH OPERATIONS 07/14/2007

Updated: Jul 17, 2007 1:57pm EST

20TH ANNUAL PITTSBURGH FIRE RESCUE & EMS EXPO HANDS ON EDUCATION: ENGINE COMPANY OPERATIONS WITH LIVE FIRE 07/14/2007 : Allegheny County, PA - On Saturday, July 14, 2007 a hands on training class was held at the Allegheny County Fire Academy, in conjunction with the 20th annual Pittsburgh Fire Rescue and EMS expo. The class was a 4 hour class on Engine Company Operations, which involved live fire. The class was taught by the following instructors; Captain Mike Dugan, FDNY, Lieutenant Mike Ciampo, FDNY, Lieutenant Dave Gallagher (RET), Huber Heights, Ohio Fire Department and Deputy Chief Don Miller, Suffolk County New York Fire Academy. The purpose of the class was to teach students how to advance single and multiple attack lines under live fire conditions. Students were instructed on the proper operation of attack lines in an active fire situation. Students were taught how to overcome common problems, which can be encountered on the fire ground. The class consisted of several evolutions involving live fire within the burn building at the fire academy, giving the students who were divided into five groups all a chance to apply what they learned in the class, everything from advancement and placement of attack lines, to the actual extinguishment of the fires. The class consisted of firefighters from Highland Fire Company (Town of McCandless), Bethel Park, City of Butler, Perrysville (Ross Township), Zelienople, Western Reserve Joint Fire District (Poland, Ohio), Richmond Virginia and even Vancouver. If I forgot to mention any other agencies that were represented, I apologize. The class was very well taught by a great group of guys with over 100 years of fire service between them. I am sure that the students learned a great deal from the excellent instructors and will be able to take what they learned back to their respective departments and apply what they learned as well as teaching their brother firefighters.

20TH ANNUAL PITTSBURGH FIRE RESCUE & EMS EXPO HANDS ON EDUCATION: ENGINE COMPANY OPERATIONS WITH LIVE FIRE 07/14/2007

Allegheny County, PA - On Saturday, July 14, 2007 a hands on training ...

Updated: Jul 16, 2007 3:48am EST

MOON TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 191 PILLAR DRIVE 07/13/2007 *** THE LAST 43 PHOTOS ARE COURTESY OF BRUCE THOMPSON MOON TWP. FIRE PHOTOGRAPHER *** :

MOON TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 191 PILLAR DRIVE 07/13/2007 *** THE LAST 43 PHOTOS ARE COURTESY OF BRUCE THOMPSON MOON TWP. FIRE PHOTOGRAPHER ***

Updated: Jul 17, 2007 12:41pm EST

WEST DEER TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE KOZAKS WAREHOUSE 23 DEWEY LANE 07/07/2007 : West Deer Township, PA – On Saturday, July 07, 2007 at approximately 10:48 a.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 received multiple calls reporting a large storage facility warehouse on fire, at 23 Dewey Lane in West Deer Township. The following units were dispatched on the initial assignment; West Deer #3 (Station 290), West Deer #2 (Station 289), West Deer #1 (Station 288), West Deer EMS (Station 240) and West Deer police. Station 290 reported heavy smoke visible in the distance from their station. West Deer Township police arrived on the scene within minutes and reported heavy smoke showing. Station 289 Lieutenant 4 was one of the first fire officers to arrive on the scene and reported a working fire, in a large one-story metal warehouse storage building, with several propane tank exposures. Command requested North Hampton (Station 165) for additional manpower at approximately 10:56 a.m. With the structure already heavily involved and the threat with the propane exposures and the contents of the structure, command advised that it would be a defensive operation only. 290 Quint was positioned on the “A/D” corner of the building and set up for aerial master stream operations. Numerous 1 ¾” and 2 ½” attack lines were placed into operation on all four sides of the involved structure, with the majority of the attack lines being used towards fire suppression efforts, while others were trained on the propane tanks to keep them cooled down. Command requested that Frazer #1 (Station 159) transfer into station 288 for station coverage, at approximately 11:13 a.m. At approximately 11:20 a.m. command reported a partial collapse of the roof, all crews are accounted for. Command requested Richland (Station 241) for a tanker and manpower at approximately 11:29 a.m. Command requested a 2nd alarm assignment for additional tankers and manpower at approximately 11:36 a.m. The following units were dispatched on the 2nd alarm; Dorseyville (Station 172), Rural Ridge (Station 175) and Middlesex (Butler County station #16). There was a total roof collapse by approximately 11:40 a.m. All crews were accounted for. Command requested Hampton (Station 164) for manpower and Saxonburg (Butler County station 15) for station coverage at station 288, as 159 units were moved from station 288 to the scene for manpower. EMS command requested that Lower Valley (Station 150) respond to the scene and assist with EMS staging. EMS command requested Seneca (Station 160) to respond to the scene and assist with EMS staging, at approximately 12:10 a.m. At approximately 12:30 p.m. command reported that the bulk of the fire has been knocked down, still have numerous hot spots throughout. Command placed the fire under control at approximately 1:38 p.m. Command advised that units would be on the scene for a period of time, performing extensive overhaul operations and extinguishing numerous hot spots. Salvation Army personnel and auxiliary personnel were on the scene, providing wet towels, cold drinks and food to the emergency personnel. One firefighter from station 165 was transported to Passavant hospital by EMS, to be treated for medical related problems. In addition to the listed standby companies, numerous other fire companies were on standby either at their own station, or at stations that were committed at the fire scene. The Allegheny County Fire Marshal was called to the scene to investigate the fire, which completely destroyed the large warehouse. The cause of the fire is under investigation. SPECIAL THANKS TO MICHELLE SIMON OF STATION 288 FOR HER PHOTO CONTRIBUTIONS. SPECIAL THANKS TO NICOLE SCHLUEP FOR HER PHOTO CONTRIBUTIONS. THEIR PHOTOS ARE THE FIRST 189 PHOTOS IN THE GALLERY... THANK YOU GIRLS!!! I ADDED A SHORT SAMPLE VIDEO CLIP TO THIS GALLERY JUST GO TO THE LAST PAGE OF THIS PARTICULAR GALLERY AND YOU WILL SEE A GOOGLE VIDEO PICTURE... CLICK ON THE GOOGLE VIDEO PICTURE AND THE VIDEO WILL BE UNDERNEATH OF IT, THEN SIMPLY CLICK ON THE PLAY ARROW TO PLAY THE SHORT CLIP

WEST DEER TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE KOZAKS WAREHOUSE 23 DEWEY LANE 07/07/2007

West Deer Township, PA – On Saturday, July 07, 2007 at approximately ...

Updated: Jul 11, 2007 1:34am EST

SPRINGDALE BOROUGH PARADE 07/06/2007 :

SPRINGDALE BOROUGH PARADE 07/06/2007

Updated: Jul 22, 2007 2:00am EST

MT. OLIVER STRUCTURE FIRE BROWNSVILLE ROAD 07/05/2007 : *** All photos were provided by South Baldwin Fire Company.....Thank you for the photos!!!***

MT. OLIVER STRUCTURE FIRE BROWNSVILLE ROAD 07/05/2007

*** All photos were provided by South Baldwin Fire Company.....Thank y ...

Updated: Aug 15, 2007 1:05am EST

CITY OF PITTSBURGH BUREAU OF FIRE HOLDS SWEARING IN CEREMONY FOR TWO NEW ASSISTANT FIRE CHIEFS; JAMES CRAWFORD AND DARRYL JONES. :

CITY OF PITTSBURGH BUREAU OF FIRE HOLDS SWEARING IN CEREMONY FOR TWO NEW ASSISTANT FIRE CHIEFS; JAMES CRAWFORD AND DARRYL JONES.

Updated: Jul 05, 2007 1:35pm EST

SOUTH PARK TOWNSHIP FIERY CRASH ON RIDGE ROAD 06/30/2007 PHOTOS COURTESY OF AMY SHAWLEY :

SOUTH PARK TOWNSHIP FIERY CRASH ON RIDGE ROAD 06/30/2007 PHOTOS COURTESY OF AMY SHAWLEY

Updated: Aug 03, 2007 8:20am EST

INDIANA TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE (MIDDLE ROAD DISTRICT) 303 NORTH ROSE DRIVE 06/24/2007 :

INDIANA TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE (MIDDLE ROAD DISTRICT) 303 NORTH ROSE DRIVE 06/24/2007

Updated: Jun 24, 2007 12:47pm EST

AVALON HOUSE EXPLOSION AND FIRE 606 CENTER AVENUE 06/19/2007 : Avalon, PA – On Tuesday, June 19, 2007 at approximately 2:40 p.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 received several calls, reporting an explosion and fire at 606 Center Avenue in the Borough of Avalon. The following units were dispatched on the initial assignment; Avalon (Station 103), Bellevue (Station 108), Kilbuck (Station 182), Northwest EMS (Station 192) and Avalon police. First arriving unit was Northwest EMS 195-2; they reported heavy smoke and fire showing from a 2 story wood frame residential structure, with exposures on sides “B” and “D”. EMS also reported that they have at least two patients with heavy burns and a 3rd victim who is unaccounted for at this time. Due to reports of the initial explosion which compromised the structural supports, as well as the heavy fire conditions, a defensive attack was established. 108 Engine 1 hit the hydrant at North Birmingham and Center Avenues and set up on the “A”/”D” corner of the structure and immediately placed the deck gun in operation. Command requested a 2nd alarm assignment for manpower and additional water supply at 2:47 p.m. The following units were dispatched on the 2nd alarm; Ben Avon (Station 109), Emsworth (Station 148) and Fairview (Station 250). Within minutes the unaccounted for 3rd victim was located and turned over to EMS personnel. All three victims were transported to Mercy Hospital in Pittsburgh, where they were being treated for their injuries. 109 Engine 1 hit the hydrant on Josephine Street and laid into the scene. 109 Engine supplied 108 Truck which was set up for aerial master stream operations on the “A”/”B” side corner of the structure. 148 Engine 2 did a reverse lay from the hydrant in the 500 block of Marie Avenue and supplied 148 Rescue 3, which was positioned on North Birmingham Avenue. The crew from 148 Rescue 3 advanced a 2 ½” attack line to side “C” of the involved structure. Crews used numerous attack lines, deck guns and an aerial master stream to darken the fire and protect the exposures. Command reported a partial collapse on the “D” side of the structure at approximately 2:55 p.m. Command requested that 275 R.I.T. be dispatched to the scene at 3:30 p.m. Crews had the bulk of the fire knocked down in approximately one hour. By approximately 5:00 p.m. the entire house had collapsed, all crews were accounted for. Seville (Station 251) and Mt. Troy (Station 239) who were initially transferred as station coverage were moved to the scene to assist with manpower. A few crews remained on the scene for an extended period of time, assisting the Allegheny County Fire Marshal removing debris from the collapsed structure, to allow them to investigate the cause of the explosion and subsequent fire, which completely destroyed the structure of origin and caused damage to the siding on the exposure “B” structure. The Ladies Auxiliary and Salvation Army personnel were on the scene, providing cold/wet towels, cold drinks and snacks to the emergency personnel, who battled the blaze in 90 degree heat. Big Dave’s Pizza in Avalon donated several pizzas and McDonald’s in Bellevue donated several cheeseburgers to the emergency personal at the scene. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

AVALON HOUSE EXPLOSION AND FIRE 606 CENTER AVENUE 06/19/2007

Avalon, PA – On Tuesday, June 19, 2007 at approximately 2:40 p.m. All ...

Updated: Jun 20, 2007 9:07pm EST

HARRISON TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE DLUBAKS GLASS COMPANY 06/13/2007 : Harrison Township,PA - On Wednesday, June 13, 2007 at approximately 8:53 a.m. Allegheny County 9-1-1 received a report of a structure fire at the Dlubak's Glass Company, located at 1603 Saxonburg Road in Harrison Township. The following units were dispatched on the initial assignment; Harrison Hills (Station 169), Citizens Hose (Station 167), Hilltop Hose (Station 168), Citizens EMS (Station 110) and Harrison Township police. Harrison police arrived on the scene within a few minutes and reported heavy smoke showing and fire through the roof of the manufacturing/production building. Police reported that all employees had self-evacuated. Command requested a 2nd alarm assignment for manpower and water supply at approximately 9:00 a.m. The following units were dispatched on the 2nd alarm; Highland Hose (Station 280), Eureka Hose (Station 281) and Freeport (Station 70). Crews advanced attack lines into the structure and initiated an aggressive interior attack. 168 Truck was set up for aerial master stream operations. Crews reported heavy fire conditions within the structure, especially in the roof area. Command requested a 3rd alarm assignment for additional manpower and tankers at approximately 9:07 a.m. The following units were dispatched on the 3rd alarm; Brackenridge (Station 112), Sarver (Station 36), Saxonburg (Station 15) and South Buffalo (Station 220). Crews battled the blaze for just over an hour, before the main body of fire was darkened. Command placed the fire under control at approximately 10:09 a.m. Crews remained on the scene for an extended period of time, performing extensive overhaul operations. Fawn #2 (Station 151), Fawn #1 (Station 150), West Deer #1 (Station 288) and West Deer #2 (Station 289) were utilized as station standby coverage for units that were committed at the fire scene. The Allegheny County Fire Marshal was called to the scene to investigate the fire, which heavily damaged the roof and conveyor belt area of the manufacturing/production building. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

HARRISON TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE DLUBAKS GLASS COMPANY 06/13/2007

Harrison Township,PA - On Wednesday, June 13, 2007 at approximately 8: ...

Updated: Jun 13, 2007 3:17pm EST

BRACKENRIDGE STRUCTURE FIRE 1130 3RD AVENUE 06/17/2007 :

BRACKENRIDGE STRUCTURE FIRE 1130 3RD AVENUE 06/17/2007

Updated: Jun 18, 2007 9:25am EST

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) LINCOLN-LARIMER STRUCTURE FIRE CLAIMS THE LIVES OF 5 CHILDREN ON WINSLOW STREET 06/12/2007 : Pittsburgh, PA – On Tuesday, June 12, 2007 at approximately 1:23 a.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 received several calls reporting a structure fire with several children trapped, at 6429 Winslow Street, located in the Lincoln-Larimer section of the City of Pittsburgh. The following units were dispatched on the initial assignment; 15 Engine, 8 Engine, 7 Engine, 8 Truck, 4033 (District Battalion Chief), 17 Engine (Go Team), 4032 (Safety Chief), MAC-2 (Mobile Cascade Unit), Rescue 1 and Medic units. Pittsburgh Police officers from zone 5 arrived on the scene within a minute and reported a house fire “going good”. A neighbor had already rescued entered the burning residence and led one child to safety. Officers attempted to enter the burning residence to rescue the children, who were reported to be trapped on the 2nd floor; however officers were forced to retreat, due to heavy fire and smoke conditions. Officers reported that the stairwell to the 2nd floor was engulfed in flames and that the ceiling had already begun to collapse. First fire unit arrived on the scene within minutes and reported heavy fire and smoke issuing from two 2 ½ story residential structures, with immediate exposure problems on side “D”. A frantic, hysterical female told emergency personnel that her three babies were still inside. Crews immediately laddered the structure and initiated a primary search for the reported trapped victims. Immediate 2nd and 3rd alarm assignments were requested for manpower and water supply. The following units were dispatched on the 2nd alarm; 6 Engine, 18 Engine, 6 Truck, 403 (Deputy Chief Scherer) and 614 (Training Academy Chief Cox). 3rd alarm included; 3 Engine, 12 Engine and Unit 40 (Assistant Chief). Within minutes, Captain Wyzomirski of 8 Truck and his crew made entry to the 2nd floor via ladders. While conducting a search for the children utilizing a thermal imaging camera, crews quickly located an unresponsive child on the floor. The child was handed off to another firefighter, who handed the lifeless child off to a paramedic, who was waiting on the ladder. Captain Wyzomirski then located a 2nd child lying on a bed. The child was quickly handed off to another firefighter, who then handed the child off to a waiting paramedic. Based on the female’s cries for help that her three babies were inside, Captain Wyzomirski believed that he was only searching for one more unaccounted for child. Captain Wyzomirski was unaware that two additional children were trapped with the raging inferno. Captain Wyzomirski located the third child on the floor. The 3rd victim was quickly turned over to the paramedics. Several Paramedics feverishly worked on the victims at the scene and rushed them to local burn hospitals, where the three young children succumbed to their injuries. Firefighters from 15 Engine were making an aggressive attack on the heavy fire on the 2nd floor, when they discovered two more young lifeless bodies on the 2nd floor. Command was advised of the additional victims that were discovered. With the fire rapidly spreading throughout the structure and into the exposures, as well as the rapidly deteriorating conditions, all crews were ordered to evacuate the structures. Command requested a 4th alarm for additional manpower at approximately 1:34 a.m. The following units were dispatched on the 4th alarm; 32 Engine, 10 Engine, 17 Truck and Official 4 (Chief Huss). Crews set up for a full scale defensive attack, using several attack lines, deck guns and aerial master streams. While several crews concentrated on suppression efforts to darken the heavy volume of fire, additional support crews worked on protecting the exposures and limiting any further spreading of the intense flames and radiant heat. Crews battled the intense blaze for over an hour before knocking down the bulk of the fire. Command placed the fire under control at approximately 3:08 a.m. Crews remained on the scene for an extended period of time, performing extensive overhaul operations and dousing hot spots, as well as assisting with the removal of the young victims from the structure and assisting the investigators. Salvation Army personnel were at the scene with their mobile canteen units, providing food and drinks to the emergency personnel. Several City of Pittsburgh police homicide detectives were at the scene, along with investigators from the City of Pittsburgh Arson Squad, as well as the Allegheny County Fire Marshal, sifting through the charred remains of the house, in efforts to find evidence as to what caused one of the deadliest fires in the City of Pittsburgh. Preliminary investigations indicate that children playing with matches may have sparked the deadly blaze; however the fire is still under investigation. The fire caused an estimated $55,000 in damages. The five young fire victims who perished in the inferno have been identified as follows; Dezekiah Holyfield 3-years-old, Cedano Holyfield 4-years-old, Daekia Holyfield 7-years-old and two friends of the Holyfield children; Andre Rankin 6-years-old and Azquel Rankin 5-years-old. The two children who escaped the deadly inferno have been identified as; Huedon Chambliss 8-years-old and Jevon Irwin 8-years-old. All five of the young victims who perished in this deadly blaze, were laid to rest on Saturday, June 16, 2007. Shakita Mangham and Furrah Love, who are the mothers of the young victims, were not at home at the time of the blaze. One of the adult females told authorities that a 17-year-old female was at the residence babysitting the children; however that was later found to be false information. It was determined that the young children were indeed left home alone, unsupervised. The loss of several young lives was not just a sad, devastating blow to the Lincoln Larimer community, but to the Emergency personnel who did everything they could possibly do to try to rescue those young children from the raging flames. Several critical incident stress debriefings were set up for the emergency personnel that responded to and were affected by the loss of the five young lives.

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) LINCOLN-LARIMER STRUCTURE FIRE CLAIMS THE LIVES OF 5 CHILDREN ON WINSLOW STREET 06/12/2007

Pittsburgh, PA – On Tuesday, June 12, 2007 at approximately 1:23 a.m. ...

Updated: Jun 12, 2007 9:35am EST

NORTH FAYETTE STRUCTURE FIRE 2321 ELM STREET 06/11/2007 : North Fayette, PA - On Monday, June 11, 2007 at approximately 7:23 pm Allegheny County 9-1-1 received several reports of an attached garage on fire, at 2321 Elm Drive in the Hawthorne Estates of North Fayette. The following units were dispatched on the initial assignment; North Fayette (Station 209), Imperial (Station 152), Northwest EMS (Station 195) and North Fayette police. North Fayette police arrived on the scene within minutes, and reported a working fire, with a vehicle also involved. 209 Chief arrived on the scene shortly after the police officers and confirmed heavy smoke and fire issuing from the garage area on side "A", of the center unit of six 3-story woodframe townhouses. Crews advanced attack lines and initiated an aggressive attack on the heavy volume of fire. Command requested a 2nd alarm assignment for additional manpower at approximately 7:40 p.m. The following units were dispatched on the 2nd alarm; Oakdale (Station 215), Sturgeon (Station 267) and McDonald R.I.T. (Station 310). Due to the the rapid spread of the from the garage into the 1st and upper floors, with rapidly deteriorating conditions, command ordered all interior crews out of the structure. Crews retreated and set up for a defensive attack. Several crews used attack lines, as well as aerial master streams, to darken the main body of fire. Additional crews worked on protecting the exposures. Crews also were experiencing an active gas line fire within the structure and were having difficulty getting the gas shut off. Crews had the bulk of the fire knocked down in a little over an hour. Crews remained on the scene for an extended period of time, performing extensive overhaul operations and dousing hot spots. The Allegheny County Fire Marshal was called to the scene to investigate the fire, which destroyed the townhouse of origin and caused damage to exposure units. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

NORTH FAYETTE STRUCTURE FIRE 2321 ELM STREET 06/11/2007

North Fayette, PA - On Monday, June 11, 2007 at approximately 7:23 pm ...

Updated: Jun 12, 2007 9:05am EST

DRAVOSBURG FIREMAN'S PARADE 06/09/2007 :

DRAVOSBURG FIREMAN'S PARADE 06/09/2007

Updated: Jun 10, 2007 7:23pm EST

93RD ANNUAL ALLEGHENY COUNTY CONVENTION FIRE PARADE HOSTED BY WHITAKER FIRE COMPANY 06/09/2007 :

93RD ANNUAL ALLEGHENY COUNTY CONVENTION FIRE PARADE HOSTED BY WHITAKER FIRE COMPANY 06/09/2007

Updated: Jun 10, 2007 6:40pm EST

EMSWORTH STRUCTURE FIRE 5 WESTERN AVENUE 05/25/2007 : On Friday, May 25, 2007 at approximately 4:35 p.m. Allegheny County 9-1-1 received a call from an employee at 5 Western Avenue in Emsworth, reporting a fire on the 2nd floor of the building, evacuation in progress. The following units were dispatched on the initial assignment; Emsworth (Station 148), Ben Avon (Station 109), Northwest EMS (Station 192) and Ohio Township police. 148 Engine 2 arrived on the scene within minutes and reported smoke showing from a 1 ½ story, 60’ x 60’ brick commercial structure. 109 Engine 1 hit the hydrant at the intersection of Forest and Western Avenues. Command requested Stowe Township R.I.T. (Fleming Park Station 275) and (Presston Station 277) at approximately 4:45 p.m. Crews advanced attack lines into the structure, where they encountered moderate heat and smoke in the attic area of the structure. Support crews laddered the structure and initiated ventilation of the roof. Command requested that Avalon (Station 103) be dispatched for additional manpower at approximately 4:50 p.m. Interior crews initiated an aggressive attack and made a quick knock down on the fire. Crews began checking for extension. Command placed the fire under control at approximately 5:05 p.m. Crews remained on the scene for an extended period of time, performing overhaul operations and clean up. The Allegheny County Fire Marshal was called to the scene to investigate the fire, which was confined to the attic area and caused minimal damage. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

EMSWORTH STRUCTURE FIRE 5 WESTERN AVENUE 05/25/2007

On Friday, May 25, 2007 at approximately 4:35 p.m. Allegheny County 9- ...

Updated: May 26, 2007 9:25am EST

DUQUESNE STRUCTURE FIRE 409 SOUTH 4TH STREET 05/24/2007 : Duquesne, PA – On Thursday, May 24, 2007 at approximately 4:55 a.m. Allegheny County 9-1-1 received multiple reports of a house fire at 409 South 4th Street, in the city of Duquesne. The following units were dispatched on the initial assignment; Duquesne (Station 133), Duquesne EMS (Station 565) and Duquesne police. Police arrived on the scene within minutes and confirmed heavy fire and smoke from the duplex at the dead end of South 4th Street. Officers reported that the fire was rapidly spreading to exposures. An immediate 2nd alarm was requested. The following units were dispatched on the 2nd alarm assignment; Duquesne Annex (Station 294), Homeville (Station 293), and Homestead (Station 171). Command reported at least two structures involved with exposures on the “D” side of the involved units. Command also reported that they were experiencing water supply problems and requested tanker response, for tanker shuttle operations. At approximately 5:12 a.m. Chief 171 requested that Pleasant Hills (Station 232) be dispatched for additional R.I.T. The following tankers were dispatched for tanker shuttle operations; Lincoln Boro (Station 184), Victory (Station 146), Greater Pittsburgh International Airport (Station 100), Jefferson 885 (Station 180) and Bettis (Station 350). A defensive attack of the fire buildings was established, with additional crews using attack lines to protect the exposures. Aerial master stream operations were set up on side “A” (133 Tele-squirt), Side “D” (171 Truck) and Side “C” (293 Truck). At approximately 5:30 a.m. Dravosburg (Station 131) and Whitaker (Station 298) were requested to the scene for additional manpower. Command also requested that White Oak (Station 299) transfer into Station 133 for area coverage. Command reported a collapse of the 2nd involved structure at approximately 5:40 a.m. This collapse consisted of mainly a roof and upper floor collapse, all crews accounted for. Crews battled the blaze both exterior and interior operations for approximately 90 minutes, before knocking down the bulk of the fire. Command placed the fire under control at approximately 7:35 a.m. Crews remained on the scene for an extended period of time, dousing numerous hot spots. Salvation Army personnel were on the scene with their mobile canteen unit, providing beverages and food to the emergency personnel. The American Red Cross assisted approximately 15 occupants, who were displaced by the fire, by providing them with clothing, food and temporary housing. One firefighter from Station 293 was transported to McKeesport Hospital for treatment. The Allegheny County Fire Marshal was called to the scene to investigate the fire. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

DUQUESNE STRUCTURE FIRE 409 SOUTH 4TH STREET 05/24/2007

Duquesne, PA – On Thursday, May 24, 2007 at approximately 4:55 a.m. A ...

Updated: May 24, 2007 12:54pm EST

BELLEVUE ACCIDENT TRUCK CARRYING TAR PRODUCT FLIPS IN THE 700 BLOCK OF ORCHARD AVENUE 05/17/2007 : Bellevue, PA - On Tuesday, May 17, 2007 at approximately 4:55 p.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 received several calls reporting a single vehicle accident, in the 700 block of Orchard Avenue in Bellevue. Initial reports indicated that there were people trapped in the vehicle and one male was reportedly not moving. The following units were dispatched on the initial assignment; Bellevue (Station 108), Avalon (Station 103), Northwest EMS (Station 192) and Bellevue Police. Bellevue police arrived on the scene within minutes and reported a box truck on its side, with entrapment however no injuries. Fire personnel assisted the two male occupants by removing them from an opened passenger window. Both occupants were removed by 5:00 p.m. The truck was hauling approximately 600 pounds of Tuff-N-Dri in two large vats. There was some leakage of the product. The product is a polymer-enhanced asphalt. Due to the product on board the truck, and the evident leakage, command notified the Allegheny County Silver Team. A large wrecker was brought to the scene to upright the truck, however the product had to be unloaded prior to being uprighted. The process of unloading the product, uprighting the truck and containment lasted several hours. Units cleared from the scene at 11:15 p.m.

BELLEVUE ACCIDENT TRUCK CARRYING TAR PRODUCT FLIPS IN THE 700 BLOCK OF ORCHARD AVENUE 05/17/2007

Bellevue, PA - On Tuesday, May 17, 2007 at approximately 4:55 p.m. All ...

Updated: May 17, 2007 8:48pm EST

ALLEGHENY COUNTY FIRE ACADEMY STRUCTURAL BURN CLASS IN MUNHALL MAY 2007 :

ALLEGHENY COUNTY FIRE ACADEMY STRUCTURAL BURN CLASS IN MUNHALL MAY 2007

Updated: May 14, 2007 2:25pm EST

MCKEES ROCKS STRUCTURE FIRE 821 GRAY AVENUE 05/08/2007 : McKees Rocks, PA – On Tuesday, May 08, 2007 at approximately 6:18 p.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 received reports of a shed on fire in the rear of 821 Gray Avenue, which is reportedly close to the structure. The following units were dispatched on the initial assignment; McKees Rocks (Station 189), Northwest EMS (Station 191) and McKees Rocks police. Multiple calls began to flood the 9-1-1 center reporting that the structure was also involved. EMS and police officers arrived on the scene within a couple of minutes and reported heavy black smoke showing from 821 and 823 Gray Avenue. Upon hearing the update, 189 Chief requested that Stowe Township companies be dispatched for mutual aid. Fleming Park (Station 275 R.I.T.), West Park (Station 276) and Presston (Station 277) were dispatched on the 2nd alarm assignment. Chief 189 arrived on the scene and reported several 2 ½ story wood frame units heavily involved, with multiple exposure problems. Chief 189 advised it would be an initial defensive attack only. 189 Engine 1 laid a supply line from the hydrant and immediately set up for deck gun operations on side “A”. Crews stretched attack lines to protect the exposures, from the fast moving flames and the radiant heat. 276 Engine laid a supply line from the opposite end of Gray Avenue to the front of the involved structures and set up deck gun operations. Engine 277 proceeded to side “C” of the involved structures and initiated a defensive attack. 189 Truck was set up for aerial master stream operations in front of the structures. Additional crews advanced additional attack lines and assisted with fire suppression efforts, as well as exposure protection. Command requested that Kennedy Township (Station 181) be dispatched for additional manpower at approximately 6:35 p.m. Command requested Ben Avon (Station 109) and Emsworth (Station 148) for additional R.I.T. support at approximately 6:44 p.m. Crews had the bulk of the heavy fire knocked down within 45 minutes. With the bulk of the heavy fire darkened, crews were able to advance lines into the exposures and darken the remaining fire. Command placed the fire under control at approximately 7:50 p.m. Crews remained on the scene for an extended period of time, performing extensive overhaul operations and dousing hot spots. Salvation Army personnel were on scene with their mobile canteen unit, providing food and hot and cold drinks to the emergency personnel. American Red Cross personnel were on the scene assisting the dozen or so displaced occupants, by providing them with food, clothing and temporary housing. Northwest EMS transported one female to Allegheny General Hospital, where she was treated for breathing related problems. The Allegheny County Fire Marshal was called to the scene to investigate the fire, which rapidly spread through several units of the Meyers Ridge public housing complex, completely destroying at least two townhouse units and damaging as many as seven others. The rapid spread of the fire was attributed to common walls and roof of the units and the lack of fire stops. The radiant heat was so intense that it melted the siding on townhouses across the street from the involved structures. The cause of the fire is under investigation. Despite what the residents of the Meyers Ridge complex think or say, there was no delay in the dispatch of the call and no delay in the fire department’s response time. As Fire Chief Radoycis stated, “It takes time to get the trucks to the scene and to get set up to put water on the fire”. With what they faced when they arrived on the scene, the firefighters did a very good job at preventing the fire from spreading even further through the complex, thus minimizing further damage. Kudos to all of the firefighters involved for a job well done.

MCKEES ROCKS STRUCTURE FIRE 821 GRAY AVENUE 05/08/2007

McKees Rocks, PA – On Tuesday, May 08, 2007 at approximately 6:18 p.m ...

Updated: May 10, 2007 8:39am EST

BELLEVUE VEHICLE FIRE 620 ROOSEVELT AVENUE 05/06/07 :

BELLEVUE VEHICLE FIRE 620 ROOSEVELT AVENUE 05/06/07

Updated: May 07, 2007 10:32am EST

GLICK OPEN HOUSE HELD AT THEIR FACILITY IN ZELIENOPLE 05/05/2007 :

GLICK OPEN HOUSE HELD AT THEIR FACILITY IN ZELIENOPLE 05/05/2007

Updated: May 05, 2007 9:38pm EST

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) SUMMERHILL STRUCTURE FIRE 3702 COLBY STREET 05/05/2007 : City Of Pittsburgh (Summerhill), PA - On Saturday, May 05, 2007 at approximately 11:25 a.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 received several reports of a house fire at 3702 Colby Street, located in the Summerhill section of the City of Pittsburgh. The following units were dispatched on the initial assignment; 34 Engine, 35 Engine, 32 Engine, 34 Truck, 4021 (District Batallion Chief), 3 Engine (Go Team), MAC-2 (Mobile Cascade Unit), 4024 (Safety Chief), Rescue 1 and Medic Unit. First arriving unit reported heavy smoke issuing from a two-story, 30' x 20' brick vacant residential structure. Carter's Mansion conditions existed within the entire structure. Due to the interior conditions with the large amount of debris, crews had difficulty advancing attack lines into the structure and accessing the seat of the fire. As initial crews were making an aggressive attack on the fire, support crews laddered the structure and ventilated the roof. Crews had the bulk of the fire knocked down within 15 minutes. Command placed the fire under control at approximately 11:50 a.m. Crews remained on the scene for a period of time, performing extensive overhaul operations. City of Pittsburgh Arson Squad was called to the scene to investigate the fire. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) SUMMERHILL STRUCTURE FIRE 3702 COLBY STREET 05/05/2007

City Of Pittsburgh (Summerhill), PA - On Saturday, May 05, 2007 at app ...

Updated: May 06, 2007 9:40am EST

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) BRIGHTON HEIGHTS STRUCTURE FIRE 1732 VERNER STREET 05/05/2007 : City of Pittsburgh (Brighton Heights), PA - On Saturday, May 05, 2007 at approximately 2:20 p.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 received multiple calls reporting a house on fire at 1732 Verner Street, located in the Brighton Heights section of the City of Pittsburgh. Initial reports indicated that a female was trapped on a roof and had jumped, also reports of children trapped inside the house. The following units were dispatched on the initial assignment; 35 Engine, 34 Engine, 37 Engine, 34 Truck, 4021 (District Batallion Chief), 4 Engine (Go Team), MAC-2, 4024 (Safety Chief), Rescue 1, Medic Unit and 503 (Medic Supervisor). First arriving unit reported heavy smoke showing, with fire issuing from 1st floor door and window on side "A". First arriving unit also confirmed that a female occupant had jumped from the porch roof and was injured. The 41-year-old injured female was turned over to EMS personnel who transported her to Mercy Hospital, where she was treated for burns, lacerations and possible fractures. Command requested an immediate 2nd alarm assignment. The following units were dispatched on the 2nd alarm; 27 Engine, 30 Engine, 32 Truck, 402 (Deputy Chief Frank Large) and 614 (Training Academy Chief Cox). Crews advanced attack lines into the structure and initiated an aggressive attack on the heavy fire on the 1st floor, which was quickly extending to the 2nd floor via the stairs. Additional crews conducting a primary search of all floors for the possible trapped children, with negative results. It was then learned that all of the children and other occupants were accounted for. Crews had the bulk of the fire knocked down within a half hour. Command placed the fire under control at approximately 2:50 p.m. Crews remained on the scene for an extended period of time, performing extensive overhaul operations. Salvation Army personnel were on the scene with their mobile canteen unit, proving drinks and snacks to the emergency personnel. One firefighter sustained a lacerated finger and was treated at the scene. The City of Pittsburgh Arson Squad was called to the scene to investigate the fire, which caused an estimated $60,000 in damages and displaced approximately eight occupants. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) BRIGHTON HEIGHTS STRUCTURE FIRE 1732 VERNER STREET 05/05/2007

City of Pittsburgh (Brighton Heights), PA - On Saturday, May 05, 2007 ...

Updated: May 07, 2007 8:22am EST

WINFIELD TOWNSHIP STRUCTRE FIRE PIT-STOP RESTAURANT 118 HELMBOLD AVENUE 04/18/2007 : Cabot, PA - On Wednesday, April 18, 2007 at approximately 5:30 a.m. Butler County 9-1-1 received reports of a structure fire at the Pitt Stop Pizza, located at 118 Helmbold Avenue in Cabot. The following companies were dispatched on the initial assignment; Winfield Township (Station 46), Buffalo Township (Station 27), Saxonburg (Station 15)and Saxonburg EMS (Station 45). First arriving units reported a fully involved structure,with no exposures. Crews immediately initiated a defensive attack on the fire. Command requested a 2nd alarm assignment shortly after arriving on the scene. The following companies were dispatched on the 2nd alarm assignment; Herman (Station 10), Penn Township (Station 11), Worthington/West Franklin (Station 250 - Armstrong County) and Middlesex (Station 16 R.I.T.) Sarver (Station 36) was on standby for Station 27 and West Deer Township (Station 288) transferred into Station 15 for station coverage. Crews battled the blaze for just over an hour before knocking down the bulk of the fire. Due to lack of hydrants in the area, tanker shuttles had to be used. Worthington Engine was also set up to draft from a nearby creek. Crews remained on the scene for an extended period of time dousing hot spots. The structure completely collapsed and heavy equipment had to be brought to the scene to remove the debris from within the structure to expose the hidden pockets of fire. The Pennsylvania State Police Fire Marshal was called to the scene to investigate the fire, which completely destroyed the 100-year-old building.

WINFIELD TOWNSHIP STRUCTRE FIRE PIT-STOP RESTAURANT 118 HELMBOLD AVENUE 04/18/2007

Cabot, PA - On Wednesday, April 18, 2007 at approximately 5:30 a.m. Bu ...

Updated: Apr 18, 2007 5:00pm EST

MOON TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 108 WINWOOD DRIVE 03/23/2007 : On Friday, March 23, 2007 at approximately 8:32 a.m. Moon Township Fire Company was dispatched to a structure fire at 108 Winwood Drive in Moon Township. First arriving unit reported a "working fire" with heavy fire and smoke issuing from side "A" of a split-level brick/aluminum siding residential structure. Firefighters initiated an aggressive interior attack and made a quick knock down on the fire. The fire appeared to originate in a vehicle parked in the driveway of the residence and rapidly extended into the residence. The vehicle and residence sustained heavy damage.

MOON TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 108 WINWOOD DRIVE 03/23/2007

On Friday, March 23, 2007 at approximately 8:32 a.m. Moon Township Fir ...

Updated: Apr 10, 2007 3:35am EST

AVALON VEHICLE ACCIDENT WITH ENTRAPMENT 4 SEDALIA AVENUE 03/13/2007 : On Tuesday, March 13, 2007 at approximately 2:35 p.m. Avalon, Bellevue and Ben Avon Fire Companies were dispatched to a vehicle accident with entrapment at 4 Sedalia Avenue, in the Borough of Avalon. First arriving units found that a Chevrolet Blazer crashed through a garage and landed on its passenger side in the backyard of a residence, above a steep hillside. The elderly male driver was trapped in the vehicle. Rescue technicians were able to free the elderly male within 30 minutes, by removing the windshield of the vehicle. Northwest EMS treated the elderly male at the scene for a couple small lacerations. The elderly male was later taken to Allegheny General Hospital by family members for evaluation. Due to the location of the vehicle and an access problem to remove the vehicle, a large crane was brought to the scene to lift the vehicle out of the backyard and place it on the street, where it was towed from the scene.

AVALON VEHICLE ACCIDENT WITH ENTRAPMENT 4 SEDALIA AVENUE 03/13/2007

On Tuesday, March 13, 2007 at approximately 2:35 p.m. Avalon, Bellevue ...

Updated: Apr 06, 2007 11:05pm EST

WILKINSBURG CHURCH FIRE 1604 GRAHAM BOULEVARD 02/24/2007 : Wilkinsburg,PA- On Saturday, February 24, 2007 at approximately 10:34 a.m. Wilkinsburg Fire Department was dispatched to 1604 Graham Boulevard in Wilkinsburg, for a report of smoke coming from a church at that location. First arriving units found heavy smoke issuing from a church, with immediate exposures on side "B" of the structure. The fire rapidly spread to the exposure structure. City of Pittsburgh firefighters assisted Wilkinsburg firefighters battling the blaze. The fire was brought under control in approximately one hour. The Allegheny Fire Marshal was called to the scene to investigate the fire, which caused extensive damage.

WILKINSBURG CHURCH FIRE 1604 GRAHAM BOULEVARD 02/24/2007

Wilkinsburg,PA- On Saturday, February 24, 2007 at approximately 10:34 ...

Updated: Apr 06, 2007 12:19pm EST

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) CARRICK STRUCTURE FIRE 1529 BROWNSVILLE ROAD 02/11/2007 : On Sunday, February 11, 2007 at approximately 6:10 a.m. Allegheny County 9-1-1 received multiple calls reporting a fire at a vacant commercial structure, located at 1529 Brownsville Road in the Carrick section of the City of Pittsburgh. The following units were dispatched on the initial zone 4-15 assignment; 23 Engine, 22 Engine, 26 Engine, 24 Truck, 4024 (District Battalion Chief), 20 Engine (Go Team), 4021 (Safety Chief), MAC-2 (Mobile Cascade Unit), Rescue 1, Medic unit and Medic supervisor. First arriving unit reported a 40’x200’ 1 ½ story vacant brick commercial structure with fire visible on the “C” side of the structure, with heavy pressurized smoke visible from all four sides of the structure. Command reported an exposure problem on side “B”. Command requested a 2nd alarm assignment for manpower and water supply at approximately 6:21 a.m. The following units were dispatched on the 2nd alarm; 24 Engine, 28 Engine, 402 (Deputy Chief) and 614 (Training Academy Chief). Command requested that the 2nd alarm Engines locate additional hydrants on the way into the scene. The 2nd alarm crews were requested to protect the exposure structure. As a result of single digit temperatures and below zero wind chills, crews were experiencing water problems, as a couple of the hydrants were frozen. Due to the rapid advancement of the fire and the deteriorating conditions, command ordered a defensive attack. 24 Truck was set up for aerial master stream operations on side “A” of the structure. Several 2 ½” and 1 ¾” attack lines were also placed into operation. Command reported a partial collapse on the side “C” of the structure at approximately 6:35 a.m. Command reported that all crews were accounted for. Command requested a 3rd alarm assignment for additional manpower and another aerial at approximately 6:40 a.m. The following units were dispatched on the 3rd alarm; 4 Engine, 27 Engine, 4 Truck and Unit 40 (Assistant Chief). Command requested that 4 Truck set up for aerial master stream operations on the “C-D” corner of the structure. First arriving 3rd alarm Engine was requested to pick up another hydrant coming in and lay a supply line to side “C” and supply 4 Truck. Crews on the 3rd alarm assignment advanced additional attack lines and assisted with defensive suppression efforts. Command requested a 4th alarm assignment at approximately 7:00 a.m. The following units were dispatched on the 4th alarm; 13 Engine, 30 Engine and Official 4 (Fire Chief Michael Huss). Crews continued pouring copious amounts of water into and onto the building for several hours, before they were able to darken the heavy volume of fire. Command placed the fire under control at approximately 10:25 a.m. Crews remained on the scene for an extended period of time, dousing numerous hot spots. Port Authority bus was brought to the scene to be used as rehab for the firefighters, who not only were battling the intense inferno but the frigid temperatures as well. Salvation Army personnel were on the scene with their mobile canteen units, providing warm drinks, snacks and food to the emergency personnel. City of Pittsburgh Arson Squad was called to the scene to investigate the fire, which destroyed the building and caused an estimated $50,000 in damages. The building was known to be used as storage of construction materials, which may have increased the fuel load, causing the intense flames to rapidly spread. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) CARRICK STRUCTURE FIRE 1529 BROWNSVILLE ROAD 02/11/2007

On Sunday, February 11, 2007 at approximately 6:10 a.m. Allegheny Coun ...

Updated: Apr 08, 2007 8:11pm EST

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) PERRY HILLTOP STRUCTURE FIRE 24 KENWOOD AVENUE 02/10/2007 : On Saturday, February 10, 2007 at approximately 1:11 p.m. Allegheny County 9-1-1 received reports of a structure fire at 24 Kenwood Avenue, located in the Perry Hilltop section of the City of Pittsburgh. Initial reports indicated that there may be someone trapped on the 3rd floor. The following units were dispatched on the zone 1-13 assignment; 38 Engine, 34 Engine, 32 Engine, 34 Truck, 4021 (District Battalion Chief), 3 Engine (Go Team), 4024 (Safety Chief), MAC-2 (Mobile Cascade Unit), Rescue Truck, Medic Unit and Medic supervisor. First arriving unit reported smoke showing from a 3-story wood frame structure which had been converted into several apartments. Exposures on sides “B” and “D”. Firefighters were advised that the eight occupants self evacuated, however one female sustained burns to her hands and a male received smoke inhalation. The injured occupants were transported by EMS to a local hospital for treatment. Crews advanced a 1 ¾” attack line into the structure and initiated an aggressive interior attack. Additional crews advanced a secondary attack line into the structure, as the Truck crew laddered the structure and initiated ventilation operations. Interior crews reported heavy smoke conditions and advised command that the fire appears to be running the walls. Command requested a 2nd alarm assignment for manpower at approximately 1:18 p.m. The following units were dispatched on the 2nd alarm; 37 Engine, 30 Engine, 32 Truck, 402 (Deputy Chief) and 614 (Training Academy Chief). Interior crews reported heavy fire on the 1st floor with extension into the 3rd floor via concealed spaces. Interior crews made an aggressive attack on the fire, as additional crews opened walls to expose and additional hidden fire within the balloon style construction of the structure. Crews quickly knocked down the bulk of the fire and continued to check for further extension. Command placed the fire under control at approximately 2:07 p.m. Crews remained on the scene for an extended period of time, performing extensive overhaul operations. Salvation Army personnel were at the scene with their mobile canteen units, providing beverages and food to the emergency personnel. The American Red Cross assisted the displaced occupants by providing them with food, clothing and temporary shelter. The City of Pittsburgh Arson Squad was called to the scene to investigate the fire, which caused an estimated $80,000 in damages. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) PERRY HILLTOP STRUCTURE FIRE 24 KENWOOD AVENUE 02/10/2007

On Saturday, February 10, 2007 at approximately 1:11 p.m. Allegheny Co ...

Updated: Apr 07, 2007 6:04pm EST

SCOTT TOWNSHIP(GLENDALE DISTRICT) STRUCTURE FIRE KING'S GRANT CONDOMINIUMS 1000 CHATHAM PARK DRIVE 01/29/2007 : SCOTT TOWNSHIP, PA – On Monday, January 29, 2007 at approximately 3:45 p.m. Allegheny County 9-1-1 received reports of a structure fire at the King’s Grant Condominiums, located at 1000 Chatham Park Drive in Scott Township. Glendale (Station 257), East Carnegie (Station 256), Bower Hill (Station 255), Dormont R.I.T. (Station 130) and Scott Township EMS were dispatched on the initial assignment. First arriving units reported heavy smoke showing from a two-story brick garden style condominium. Within minutes heavy fire was showing from a 2nd floor unit. Crews advanced 1 ¾” attack lines into the structure, where they encountered heavy smoke and heat conditions. Additional crews initiated a primary search of the units in the involved complex. Initial attack crews advanced their way to the 2nd floor, where they encountered heavy fire conditions. Command requested additional alarms for manpower and water supply. The following companies were dispatched on the additional alarm assignments; Carnegie (Station 118), Bridgeville (Station 117), Kirwin Heights (Station 124), Presto (Station 125), Bethel Park (Station 110) and Mount Lebanon (Station 198). Interior crews initiated an aggressive interior attack as Truck 257 and Truck 256 were set up in sector 1 for ventilation operations. The fire rapidly extended into the crawl space and quickly ran the common roof. With conditions rapidly deteriorating, all crews were ordered to evacuate the structure and a full scale defensive attack was initiated. Two aerial master streams as well as several 2 ½” and 1 ¾” attack lines were placed in operation in efforts to darken the heavy volume of fire and to prevent it from spreading to the next building in the complex. Crews had the bulk of the fire knocked down within 45 minutes after the defensive attack began. Command placed the fire under control at approximately 5:30 p.m. Crews remained on the scene for an extended period of time, performing extensive overhaul operations and extinguishing hot spots. Port Authority buses were brought to the scene to be used as rehab for emergency personnel, as temperatures were in the 20’s and dropping. Residents, who were home at the time, were taken to the recreation hall located in another part of the complex, which allowed them to get out of the cold weather and to meet with personnel from the American Red Cross, who assisted them with food, clothing and temporary shelter. Salvation Army personnel were on the scene with their mobile canteen units, providing hot and cold drinks, as well as food to the emergency personnel. The Allegheny County Fire Marshal was called to the scene to investigate the fire, which destroyed or heavily damaged approximately 20 units within the complex. Damages have been estimated at $2,000,000. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

SCOTT TOWNSHIP(GLENDALE DISTRICT) STRUCTURE FIRE KING'S GRANT CONDOMINIUMS 1000 CHATHAM PARK DRIVE 01/29/2007

SCOTT TOWNSHIP, PA – On Monday, January 29, 2007 at approximately 3:4 ...

Updated: Apr 10, 2007 11:30am EST

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) HAZELWOOD STRUCTURE FIRE PATH WAY 01/05/2007 :

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) HAZELWOOD STRUCTURE FIRE PATH WAY 01/05/2007

Updated: Apr 07, 2007 7:34pm EST

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) BELTZHOOVER STRUCTURE FIRE 100 BLOCK OF JUCUNDA STREET 12/31/2006 :

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) BELTZHOOVER STRUCTURE FIRE 100 BLOCK OF JUCUNDA STREET 12/31/2006

Updated: Apr 30, 2007 1:19pm EST

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) PERRY HILLTOP STRUCTURE FIRE 1903 LITHGOW STREET 12/19/2006 :

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) PERRY HILLTOP STRUCTURE FIRE 1903 LITHGOW STREET 12/19/2006

Updated: Apr 07, 2007 9:55am EST

STOWE TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 1207 WOODWARD AVENUE 12/04/2006 :

STOWE TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE 1207 WOODWARD AVENUE 12/04/2006

Updated: Apr 10, 2007 1:29am EST

MCKEES ROCKS STRUCTURE FIRE JENNY LEE BAKERY 620 ISLAND AVENUE 11/23/2006 :

MCKEES ROCKS STRUCTURE FIRE JENNY LEE BAKERY 620 ISLAND AVENUE 11/23/2006

Updated: Apr 10, 2007 12:32pm EST

SHALER TOWNSHIP(BAUERSTOWN DISTRICT) STRUCTURE FIRE 1308 EVERGREEN AVENUE 09/15/2006 :

SHALER TOWNSHIP(BAUERSTOWN DISTRICT) STRUCTURE FIRE 1308 EVERGREEN AVENUE 09/15/2006

Updated: Apr 11, 2007 9:34pm EST

COLLIER TOWNSHIP(KIRWAN HEIGHTS DISTRICT) STRUCTURE FIRE CRAZY HORSE AT GREAT SOUTHERN SHOPPING CENTER 09/11/2006 : Collier Township, PA; On Monday, September 11, 2006 at approximately 6:55 a.m. Allegheny County 9-1-1 Center received several calls, reporting a fire at the Crazy Horse bar and restaurant in the Great Southern shopping plaza, located at 1155 Washington Pike in Collier Township. Callers were reporting black smoke and flames coming from the rear of the business. The following units were dispatched on the initial alarm; Kirwin Heights (Station 124), Kirwin Heights EMS (Station 770) and Collier Township police. Lieutenant Joseph Wissel, who was responding from the station and Lieutenant Howard Halle, who was responding from home, could see a thick plume of black smoke in the distance and immediately requested a 2nd alarm assignment. The following units were dispatched on the 2nd alarm; Bower Hill (Station 255), Glendale (Station 257), Bridgeville (Station 117) and Mount Lebanon R.I.T. (Station 198). EMS command requested that Southbridge EMS (Station 815) respond to the scene for standby. Lieutenant Wissel arrived on the scene within minutes and established Crazy Horse command. Lieutenant Wissel reported heavy smoke and fire showing from side “C” of the two-story concrete and wood structure. The Crazy Horse bar and restaurant was flanked by several store fronts, which became an immediate exposure threat. Command requested an immediate 3rd alarm assignment. The following units were dispatched on the 3rd alarm; Fairview (Station 268), Oakdale (Station 215) and Heidelberg (Station 170). Several employees, who were working in nearby stores at the time of the fire had safely evacuated. Engine 124-1 arrived on the scene and laid a 5” supply line from the hydrant on the “C-D” corner of the shopping plaza. Crew from Engine 124-1, led by Lieutenant Halle advanced an attack line into the doorway leading to the kitchen restaurant. Lieutenant Halle made it approximately 150-feet from the door and encountered very intense heat conditions. Lieutenant Halle and his crew retreated from the structure to obtain a thermal imaging camera, to assist them in locating the main body of fire. Lieutenant Halle and crew attempted to re-enter the structure to locate the fire and initiate an aggressive attack. The thermal imaging camera revealed heavy fire conditions above the interior crew, in the ceiling area. Due to the heavy volume of fire and intense heat conditions, the interior crew again backed out of the building. Due to rapidly deteriorating interior conditions, and the fact that the outside walls had developed large cracks from the intense heat, command switched operations to a defensive mode and established a collapse zone. Truck 257 was positioned on side “D” of the structure and set up for aerial operations. Additional crews placed several large caliber attack lines and portable deck guns in operation on the “C” side of the structure, where heavy fire was visible inside two large windows. Approximately 30 minutes into the incident, the crew operating in the basket of Truck 257, reported that the rubber roof gave way and collapsed, leaving several large air conditioning units dangling from the collapsed roof. Command requested a 4th alarm assignment for additional manpower as well as three additional rapid intervention teams at approximately 7:35 a.m. The following units were dispatched to fulfill the assignment; Rennerdale (Station 126), Presto (Station 125), Upper St. Clair R.I.T. (Station 284), Stowe Township R.I.T. (Stations 275 and 277), Castle Shannon R.I.T. (Station 119) and Sturgeon (Station 267) for their mobile cascade unit. Command requested that one additional R.I.T. can set up on the “D” side of the structure with Mt. Lebanon and that the other two can set up on the “B” side of the structure. Truck 117 was set up for aerial operations on the “B” side of the structure and 198 Truck was set up to assist 257 Truck on the “D” side of the structure. Command requested two additional aerial apparatus at approximately 7:40 a.m. Bethel Park (Station 110) and Carnegie (Station 118) were dispatched for their Trucks. Command requested that when Truck 110 and Truck 118 arrive on the scene, they are to set up on the “B” side of the structure and assist Truck 117 with operations. Command requested that Washington Pike (Route 50), which is the main roadway leading to Interstate 79, be shut down in both directions as large diameter hose needed to be laid from hydrants across Washington Pike to supply the additional aerial apparatus. Truck 257 crew reported heavy fire in the roof area extending the length of the roof from the “D” side to the “C” side. The crew from 117 Truck removed the facade above the vacant Casual Big and Tall store on the “B” side of the structure, to access the fire that was running along the voids between the false ceilings and roof area. Truck 110 crew removed the facade above the Dollar Tree on the “B” side of the structure to access the fire. With five aerial master streams, numerous large caliber attack lines and several portable deck guns operating, crews poured copious amounts of water onto the collapsed roof, through open doors, windows and holes in the facade, for several hours before the bulk of the fire was extinguished. Command declared the fire under control at 12:30 p.m. Command advised that units would be on the scene for an extended period of time, performing extensive overhaul operations and dousing hot spots. Command requested a special alarm assignment for additional manpower to assist with overhaul and extinguishment at approximately 2:15 p.m. Whitehall (Station 301), Broughton (Station 270) and Cecil #3 (Washington County Station #10) were notified to respond to the scene. Two firefighters were transported to a local hospital to be treated for minor injuries. Several transfers were needed to cover the empty stations, while crews were committed at the scene. Dormont (Station 130) transferred to Kirwin Heights (Station 124), North Fayette (Station 209) transferred to Heidelberg (Station 170), Crafton (Station 128) transferred to Bridgeville (Station 117), McDonald (Washington County Station 12) transferred to Sturgeon (Station 267), Moon Township (Station 197) transferred to Oakdale (Station 215). Greentree (Station 163) were on standby in their station. Lieutenant Joseph Wissel (Kirwin Heights) was in command of the incident, Chief Gary Sawicki (Bower Hill) was in charge of operations, R.I.T. commander from each R.I.T. were assigned as safety officers and Kirwin Heights was in charge of accountability during the incident. In all, 218 firefighters from 20 departments battled the intense blaze. Firefighters did an excellent job at protecting the exposure stores and preventing the fire from spreading. In addition to Kirwin Heights and Southbridge EMS, Scott Township, MRTS (Medical Rescue Team South) and Northwest EMS units also assisted at the fire scene. Salvation Army personnel were at the scene with two mobile canteen units, providing emergency personnel with coffee, cold beverages and food. The Allegheny County Fire Marshal and Investigators from the ATF (Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms) were called to the scene to investigate the fire, which extensively damaged the Crazy Horse and caused moderate to severe damages to Casual Big and Tall, Dollar Tree, K & K Soccer, Hoover Sales, Hallmark and JoAnn Fabrics. Damages have been estimated in excess of $1,000,000.

COLLIER TOWNSHIP(KIRWAN HEIGHTS DISTRICT) STRUCTURE FIRE CRAZY HORSE AT GREAT SOUTHERN SHOPPING CENTER 09/11/2006

Collier Township, PA; On Monday, September 11, 2006 at approximately 6 ...

Updated: Apr 24, 2007 9:30am EST

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) UPTOWN STRUCTURE FIRE 5TH AVENUE 08/25/2006 :

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) UPTOWN STRUCTURE FIRE 5TH AVENUE 08/25/2006

Updated: Apr 29, 2007 12:48am EST

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) TROY HILL STRUCTURE FIRE 1700 LOWRIE STREET 08/10/2006 : On Thursday, August 10, 2006 at approximately 7:52 p.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 received several reports of a top floor of a building on fire, located at 1717 Lowrie Street in the Troy Hill neighborhood of the City of Pittsburgh. Initial reports indicated that there may be someone trapped in the structure. The following units were dispatched on the zone 1-4 assignment; 32 Engine, 38 Engine, 3 Engine, 32 Truck, 4021 (District Battalion Chief), 7 Engine (Go Team), 4023 (Safety Chief), MAC-1 (Mobile Cascade Unit), Rescue 2 and Medic 4. While units were responding to the scene, 614 (Training Academy Chief) was traveling on Route 28, which is located below the Troy Hill neighborhood, and advised the responding units that he could see a large plume of smoke in the distance. First arriving unit reported heavy smoke issuing from the 3rd floor of a three-story brick structure, which consist of an ice cream store on the 1st floor with apartments on the upper floors. The structure also had a 2 ½ story frame addition on the sector 3 side. The crew of 32 Truck was advised that all occupants had self evacuated, however a male occupant from the fire sustained smoke inhalation and minor burns. Paramedics were directed to the injured male, who was across the street from the burning structure. Command requested a 2nd alarm assignment at 7:59 p.m. The following units were dispatched on the 2nd alarm; 6 Engine, 4 Engine, 6 Truck, 402 (Deputy Chief Large) and 614 (Training Academy Chief). Initial crews advanced 1 ¾” up to the 3rd floor of the structure, where they encountered very heavy fire and smoke conditions. Crews initiated an aggressive interior attack. Support crews advanced additional 1 ¾” attack lines to the 3rd floor to assist with suppression efforts. 32 Truck was positioned on the 1-4 corners of the structure and set up for aerial operations. Intense dark smoke rapidly pushed throughout the 3rd floor, as the fire made significant headway into structural elements of the 3rd floor and roof area. Interior crews advised command that conditions were rapidly deteriorating, as they had heavy volume of fire above and below their position on the 3rd floor. Command ordered all crews out of the structure at approximately 8:06 p.m. Command requested a 3rd alarm assignment for additional manpower and water supply at approximately 8:07 p.m. The following units were dispatched on the 3rd alarm; 37 Engine, 10 Engine and Unit 40 (Assistant Chief). A full scale defensive attack was established, utilizing numerous large caliber streams from 2 ½” attack lines, as well as elevated master streams from 32 Truck and 6 Truck. As the fire raged out of control and the threat of structural collapse imminent, a collapse zone was established. Command requested that the City of Pittsburgh Water supervisor respond to the scene with grid maps, in efforts to locate water supply beyond the immediate grid, to be able to provide the amount of water needed to supply the high gallonage attack. Command also requested that 24 Engine respond out of 4 Engine’s quarters to the scene, with the water notebooks from the Deputy Chief’s office, to help aid in locating the additional water supply in the area. Crews continued to pour copious amounts of water onto and into the building, in efforts to darken the heavy volume of fire and to keep the fire contained to the building of origin. At approximately 8:40 a.m. Command reported that they had a partial collapse of a wall on the sector 2 side of the structure. Command also reported that the roof had collapsed into the structure. All crews have been accounted for. Crews had the main bulk of the fire knocked down by approximately 9:15 p.m. Crews continued to pour water into the building for several hours until the last flicker of flame was darkened. Command placed the fire under control at approximately 10:55 p.m. Crews remained on the scene for an extended period of time dousing hot spots. Salvation Army personnel were on the scene with their mobile canteen unit, providing food and beverages to emergency personnel. American Red Cross personnel were at the scene assisting several displaced occupants, by providing them with food, clothing and temporary shelter. The City of Pittsburgh Arson Squad was called to the scene to investigate the fire, which caused an estimated $200,000 in damages.

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) TROY HILL STRUCTURE FIRE 1700 LOWRIE STREET 08/10/2006

On Thursday, August 10, 2006 at approximately 7:52 p.m. Allegheny 9-1- ...

Updated: Apr 08, 2007 8:47am EST

AVALON STRUCTURE FIRE 605 CENTER AVENUE 07/28/2006 :

AVALON STRUCTURE FIRE 605 CENTER AVENUE 07/28/2006

Updated: Apr 16, 2007 11:17am EST

SHARPSBURG STRUCTURE FIRE 804 MAIN STREET 05/31/2006 :

SHARPSBURG STRUCTURE FIRE 804 MAIN STREET 05/31/2006

Updated: Apr 11, 2007 12:12am EST

MOON TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE OAK DRIVE 03/17/2006 :

MOON TOWNSHIP STRUCTURE FIRE OAK DRIVE 03/17/2006

Updated: Apr 24, 2007 11:01am EST

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) NORTH SHORE RIVER RESCUE AT FATAL ACCIDENT ON THE NORTH SHORE 02/17/2006 :

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) NORTH SHORE RIVER RESCUE AT FATAL ACCIDENT ON THE NORTH SHORE 02/17/2006

Updated: Apr 24, 2007 6:01pm EST

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) HOMEWOOD STRUCTURE FIRE XPRESSIONS LOUNGE 631 OAKWOOD STREET 01/05/2006 : On Thursday, January 05, 2006 at approximately7:28 a.m. Allegheny 9-1-1 received numerous reports of a structure fire, at Xpressions Bar located at 631 Oakwood Street in the Homewood section of Pittsburgh. The following units were dispatched on the initial zone 3-15 assignment; 17 Engine, 15 Engine, 18 Engine, 17 Truck, BC-3 (District Battalion Chief), 19 Engine (Go Team), BC-2 (Safety Officer), MAC-2 (Mobile Cascade Unit), Rescue 1 and a Medic unit. First arriving units reported heavy smoke issuing from Xpressions Bar, which was the middle unit of a commercial two-story brick row of four structures. An immediate 2nd alarm assignment was requested. The following units were dispatched on the 2nd alarm; 8 Engine, 12 Engine, 8 Truck and 404 (Deputy Chief Walz). First arriving crews advanced an attack line and made entry into the fire building. Interior crews encountered very heavy fire conditions, with very heavy and increasing smoke conditions. Truck 17 was set up for aerial operations in sector 1, Truck 8 upon arriving on the scene, set up for aerial operations on the sector 4 side of the building. Interior crews advised command that interior conditions were rapidly deteriorating. Heavy brown smoke continued to intensify and billow from multiple structures within the row. Command ordered all crews out of the building, due to the increasing risk of a back draft occurring. All crews evacuated the structure and were accounted for. The fire rapidly ran the walls into the common attic and roof area of the entire building. A defensive attack was established, with two aerial master streams, several deck guns and multiple attack lines. Command requested a 3rd alarm assignment for additional manpower and water supply at approximately 7:45 a.m. The following units were dispatched on the 3rd alarm; 7 Engine and 10 Engine. Command requested an additional Truck be added to the 3rd alarm assignment, to be utilized for aerial operations in sector 3. 6 Truck was dispatched to complete the 3rd alarm. Shortly after the 3rd alarm was requested, heavy fire broke through the roof of the building, minimizing the risk of a back draft. Two firefighters who were operating in sector 3, sustained injuries when a rear wooden fire escape collapsed. The firefighters were evaluated by EMS, and then transported to a local hospital for treatment. Upon arriving on the scene, 6 Truck set up for aerial master stream operations in sector 3. Additional Engines hit several hydrants to supply the aerial master streams. Command requested a 4th alarm assignment for additional manpower at approximately 7:55 a.m. The following units were dispatched on the 4th alarm; 6 Engine, 4 Engine and Official 4 (Chief Huss). Crews continued with a full scale defensive attack, pouring copious amounts of water into and onto the building. Crews also concentrated efforts on protecting a two-story brick, multi-family dwelling exposure in sector 4. Crews battled the intense, stubborn fire for several hours before knocking down the main body of fire. Command placed the fire under control at approximately 11:00 a.m. Crews remained on the scene for an extended period of time dousing numerous hot spots. Firefighters confined the fire to the building of origin. The exposure in sector 4 sustained minimal water damage. The City of Pittsburgh Arson Squad was called to the scene to investigate the fire, which caused an estimated $175,000 in damages. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

(CITY OF PITTSBURGH) HOMEWOOD STRUCTURE FIRE XPRESSIONS LOUNGE 631 OAKWOOD STREET 01/05/2006

On Thursday, January 05, 2006 at approximately7:28 a.m. Allegheny 9-1- ...

Updated: Apr 09, 2007 10:35am EST

MOON TOWNSHIP HOUSE EXPLOSION 107 BERTLEY RIDGE DRIVE 03/16/2005 : Moon Township, PA - On Wednesday, March 16, 2005 at approximately 3:13 p.m. Moon Township Communications Center received multiple reports of a house explosion on Bertley Ridge Drive, near Gilshire Drive in Moon Township. Callers were reporting that one house was completely leveled and engulfed in flames, and the house next door was starting to catch fire. Other callers were reporting that the explosion was so forceful, that it blew windows out of their houses several hundred feet away. Moon Township Communications Center dispatched Moon (Station 197) and Moon Township Police. Valley Ambulance Authority was contacted to dispatch EMS units to the scene. As units were responding, callers continued to report the incident to Moon Township Communications Center. Several neighbors reported that a teenage female occupant of the house is dazed, wandering around the scene and is injured. They also reported that a teenage male occupant jumped from the fully involved remains of the house, and was badly burned. Emergency personnel were updated about the confirmed injuries, however it was unknown if there were any additional victims. Moon Township police officer Doug Ogden was on Beaver Grade Road approaching station 197 (Downes) fire station, still approximately two miles away from the scene, when he radioed that there are columns of black smoke visible in the distance. Station 197 Chief Charles Belgie upon leaving his office at the Moon Township Public Safety Building, which is located several miles from the scene of the explosion, reported very heavy plumes of black smoke in the distance. Upon hearing the updates broadcasted about the neighbors reporting that one male has serious burns, Valley EMS supervisor requested that their dispatcher place medical helicopters on standby, in the event they would be needed. Officer Ogden arrived on the scene within minutes and reported one house completely leveled and engulfed in flames, an additional house next door to the leveled house was heavily damaged by the blast and was beginning to burn. Upon further investigating, Officer Ogden located a male and a female sitting on the ground in front of a house, a few doors away from the house that had exploded, being treated by an adult female. Officer Ogden began immediately learned that the two people were inside the house when it exploded. Officer Ogden noted that both individuals were covered with dust and debris, and that the male’s clothing was tattered. Officer Ogden requested that Moon Communications update Valley EMS to expedite for a male patient who is conscious and has apparent 3rd degree burns. As officer Ogden was attending to the injured teenagers, officers Kavanshansky and Starko, who arrived on the scene at the same time as officer Ogden, proceeded to the fire scene to check for additional victims. Sgt. Smith and officer Humbert arrived on the scene moments after the other officers and immediately established traffic control at the intersection of Beaver Grade Road and Bertley Ridge Drive. Valley EMS arrived on the scene within minutes and initiated patient care. EMS supervisor radioed their communications center and requested that the nearest medical helicopter respond to the nearest landing zone, which would be the former McCormick Elementary School, located approximately 1/2 mile west of the explosion/fire scene. 197C-1 was notified of the landing zone location. 197C-1 made arrangements for one of the responding fire units to divert to the former McCormick Elementary School and establish the landing zone. 197C-1 was advised by EMS command that STAT helicopter should be at the LZ within ten minutes. EMS personnel loaded the seriously injured male into the ambulance and rushed him to the landing zone. The male was hot loaded into the waiting helicopter and airlifted to Mercy Hospital in Pittsburgh. The injured female was transported to Mercy Hospital by EMS. Both victims were admitted for treatment. The male was listed as critical and the female was listed as fair. Chief Belgie arrived on the scene a few minutes behind Officer Ogden, and assessed the situation. Chief Belgie reported one house completely leveled and engulfed in fire, with the sector 2 exposure, a two-story frame/brick single family residential structure damaged by the blast on side 4 of the exposure, with flames and smoke showing from the sector 4 side. Chief Belgie assumed Bertley Ridge command. Command requested that Coraopolis and Crescent Township be notified for water supply and manpower, at approximately 3:24 p.m. Moon Communications dispatched Crescent Township (Station 129) and notified Coraopolis to have them dispatch Coraopolis (Station 127). The first piece of fire apparatus to arrive on the scene was 197 Engine 4, which is a tele-squirt. 197 Engine 4 hit the hydrant on the way into the plan, and laid a supply line up to the scene. 197 Engine 4 took a position on the 1-2 side of the structure and extended the 50’ stick to initiate master stream operations. Additional Engines and support crews arrived on the scene moments behind 197 Engine 4. As the nozzle from 197 Engine 4 was trained on the flaming remains of the leveled structure at 107 Bertley Ridge, other crews initiated an aggressive attack on the flames that were lapping up the sector 4 side of the sector 2 exposure. Additional support crews advanced attack lines and began attacking the heavy volume of fire from the remains of the structure that exploded. While crews were battling the blaze, natural gas vapors continued to burn around the perimeter of the property. Officer Ogden noticed a piece of construction equipment in the front yard of the leveled house, close to the roadway. Officer Ogden noticed a Columbia Gas vehicle parked further down Bertley Ridge, beyond Gilshire Drive. Contact was made with the gas company employee, who advises that they responded to a report of an emergency locate call at approximately 2:00 p.m. Columbia Gas employee advises that they had crews on the scene approximately 30 minutes after the notification and began performing safety checks in the area. Preliminary investigations indicated that a sub-contractor, who was doing work for Comcast cable, punctured a 2” gas line during drilling operations. The Columbia Gas employee requested that officers assist in evacuating the entire housing plan, which consisted of several houses along Bertley Ridge and Gilshire Drives. Officers Ogden, Kavanshansky and Starko began going door to door to all the houses within the plan. Most of the houses in the plan, the occupants had already fled the area, or were not at home. As far as the residents that were still at home, officers assisted them out of their residence and directed them up to the staging area, which was established at the former McCormick Elementary School. Crews had the bulk of the heavy fire knocked down by approximately 3:45 p.m. Crews had the fire under control in the sector 2 exposure and were in the process of checking for extension. Quick aggressive tactics kept the fire damage in the exposure structure confined to the 1st and 2nd floors on the sector 4 side of the structure, which minimized the smoke and water damages. Crews continued to pour copious amounts of water onto the remains of the original structure. At approximately 3:47 p.m. Command requested that Comcast be contacted to send a supervisor to the scene, as emergency personnel were still attempting to account for the employees who had been operating the auger, to drill in the front yard of the leveled house. Columbia Gas employees worked feverishly to attempt to shut down the gas to the entire area, as the natural gas vapors continued to burn near the source of the leak and on the property of the leveled house. Command requested that Duquesne Light be notified to shut off the power to the entire plan. Columbia Gas employees were able to get the gas shut off in the plan by approximately 4:00 p.m. Crews continued to hose down the hot spots that continued to burn within the remains of the structure. At approximately 4:30 p.m. Student Transportation of America, which is the school bus service for Moon Township School District, sent five school buses to the staging area, The buses were going to be utilized to shuttle evacuees from the staging area to the Moon Township Municipal Building, where representatives from the American Red Cross were going to be on hand to assist the evacuees, by providing them with food and temporary shelter, as long as the evacuation order remained in effect. In all, approximately 40 houses were evacuated, however most of those evacuated went to stay with family and friends. Some of the evacuees, who did not have a place to go, received vouchers to stay at the Courtyard Marriott in Moon Township, or the Four Points Sheraton in Findlay Township. The evacuees were not permitted back into their residences until Columbia Gas officials and incident commander gave the all clear. Columbia Gas officials estimated that the residents would be out of their homes for approximately 16-24 hours. Firefighters continued to hose down the smoldering remains in an effort to extinguish the remaining hot spots under the piles of rubble. Moon Township Road Department brought a backhoe to the scene to assist in sifting through the pile of debris, to help expose the hot spots for firefighters to extinguish. Gas employees went house to house within the plan, conducting a thorough inspection and taking explosive level readings, to be sure that all of the additional residences were free of gas build up. The blast, which could be heard and felt a good distance away, created a significant debris field around the scene. In addition to the leveled house and the sector 2 exposure, several other homes sustained damage, consisting of impact marks from flying debris, broken windows and various other degrees of structural damage. A female who lives directly across the street from the house that exploded, who was in her kitchen at the time, was knocked up against the sink from the powerful blast. Neighbors blocks away reported feeling the ground shake when the explosion occurred. Investigators from Moon Township fire and police departments, Allegheny County Fire Marshal’s office, Columbia Gas and the Public Utilities Commission were back at the scene of the explosion first thing Thursday morning, sifting through the debris and digging for clues, to determine exactly what led up to and caused the explosion. Columbia Gas crews were able to install a temporary gas line in the neighborhood and get gas service restored to the evacuated homes, by approximately 10:00 a.m. Thursday, approximately 20 hours after the incident began. With gas and electric restored to their homes, evacuees were given the all clear to return to their homes late Thursday morning. Preliminary investigations indicate that employees from Conn-X, a sub-contractor for Comcast based out of Lawrenceville, were using an auger machine to drill holes near the sidewalk on the property at 107 Bertley Ridge Drive, for installation of a high-speed internet cable, when they drilled through a 2” natural gas line. The natural gas apparently migrated along underground sewer lines and escaped into the closed up residence. The natural gas continued to build up inside the house, until it reached explosive levels. 18-year-old Marc Rateau and his 14-year-old sister Chelsea arrived home from school and entered the house. Upon entering, they detected a strange odor in the residence. Chelsea proceeded to the family room on the 1st floor and sat down to watch television. Marc went upstairs to his bedroom on the 2nd floor. Moments later an ignition source sparked the gas vapors, which caused the explosion and subsequent fire. The cause of the explosion and subsequent fire remains under investigation. Reassuring news came Thursday, when it was learned that Marc, who is autistic and a junior at Moon Area School, has no damage to his lungs and has an excellent chance for survival and a complete recovery, even though it will be a long road to that recovery. Chelsea was released from the hospital after being treated for burns to her arms and behind her ear. Marc is very well liked at school he type of person that once he knows your name, he never forgets it. Moon area students signed several large get-well banners for Marc and already collected over $3,000 for the Rateau family. A neighbor established a fund for the Rateau family at PNC bank.

MOON TOWNSHIP HOUSE EXPLOSION 107 BERTLEY RIDGE DRIVE 03/16/2005

Moon Township, PA - On Wednesday, March 16, 2005 at approximately 3:13 ...

Updated: Apr 28, 2007 7:15pm EST

SAXONBURG STRUCTURE FIRE FRIEDMAN'S SUPERMARKET 05/13/2004 : On Thursday, May 13, 2004 at approximately 12:30 p.m. Butler County 9-1-1 Center received a call from an alarm monitoring company, reporting a commercial fire alarm activation for Friedman’s grocery store, located at 270 W. Water Street in Saxonburg. Butler County 9-1-1 Center dispatched Saxonburg (Station 15), Buffalo Township (Station 27) and Saxonburg EMS on the initial alarm. As the initial companies were being dispatched, an employee from Friedman’s grocery store called 9-1-1 to report that there is a confirmed fire in the rear portion of the store, in the electrical room. The employee advised 9-1-1 that shortly before they discovered the fire, the lights in the store flickered, followed by exploding sounds from the electrical room. The employee advised 9-1-1 that there were approximately 40 employees and 45 customers in the store, and they were in the process of evacuating. Butler County 9-1-1 Center updated the responding units with the report from the store. First arriving units reported smoke showing from the C-D side of a 300’x100’ one-story concrete block grocery store. Command requested an immediate 2nd alarm assignment. Butler County 9-1-1 dispatched Sarver (Station 36), Middlesex Township (Station 16), Herman (Station 10), Winfield Township (Station 46), Penn Township (Station 11), Butler City for their Aerial and Cranberry Township (Station 21) for their R.I.T. Team. Crews advanced attack lines through the front of the store. Interior crews reported heavy fire and smoke conditions in the rear portion of the store. As initial interior crews began attacking the fire, additional crews loaded numerous 18-pound propane tanks, which were stored in the front of the store, into shopping carts and pushed them out into the parking lot, well away from the structure. Saxonburg Ladder 15 was set up for aerial operations on side D. Upon arriving on the scene, Middlesex Ladder 16 was set up for aerial operations on side A and Butler City Truck 1 was set up for aerial operations on side B. Crews from the 2nd alarm companies advanced hose lines into the structure to assist the initial interior crews attacking the fire. Interior crews advised command that the fire was spreading quickly, and that crews were encountering very intense heat and very heavy smoke conditions. Exterior crews worked to ventilate the concrete roof in an effort to alleviate the heat and smoke conditions that the interior crews were encountering. As the blades of their saws cut through the concrete roof, the roof crew discovered that there was another roof under the main roof. The 44-year-old building had under gone its 5th renovation five years ago, when a 3,000 square foot addition was built. The numerous renovations which yielded a roof on top of a roof and false ceilings throughout the store, created numerous void spaces, which allowed the fire to rapidly spread throughout the structure. Command requested several additional alarms for manpower due to the magnitude of the fire and due to temperatures in the 80’s and near 100% humidity, which was taking a tool on the firefighters. Command also requested multiple tankers on the additional alarm assignments for water supply, due to limited hydrants in the immediate area. The additional alarms also brought two additional aerial apparatus from Lyndora (Station 4). Interior crews advised command that conditions were rapidly deteriorating, as the fire, heat and smoke conditions were intensifying. Command ordered all crews out of the structure shortly after 1:00 p.m. Once all crews were out of the structure and accounted for, a defensive attack was initiated. Several attack lines and portable deck guns were put into operation. Even though the aerials were in position and raised, the aerial master streams were not immediately put into operation, as the water streams would not be able penetrate the double roof and reach the heavy volume of fire within the structure. Firefighters removed louvered vents from side D and forced open several steel doors on sides B and D, so that they could attempt to get water on the fire. Shortly after 2:00 p.m. a small portion of the roof on the C-D corner of the structure had collapsed, allowing the fire to vent and allowing an access point for firefighters to get water on the fire, utilizing aerial master streams from Saxonburg Ladder 15 and Butler City Truck 1. Approximately 2 hours into the incident, firefighters started to experience water problems. Due to the copious amounts of water that was being used to battle the intense blaze, the borough’s two water tanks that hold a total of 650,000 gallons of water, were almost dry. With the water supply drastically low, command had to utilize multiple Tankers from numerous fire companies to shuttle water to the scene, to keep the master streams, deck guns and attack lines supplied. The following Tankers assisted with the water shuttle operations; Buffalo Township (Engine 27-2), Herman (Tankers 10-1 and 10-2), Oneida Valley (Oakland Township Tanker 35), Lick Hill (Tankers 8-1 and 8-2), East Butler (Tanker 9), Evans City (Tanker 20), Penn Township (Tanker 11-2), Valencia (Tanker 17), Zelienople (Engine 22-2), Meridian (Tanker 3), Sarver (Tanker 36), Winfield Township (Tanker 46), West Deer Township #1 (Tanker 288), West Deer Township #2 (Tanker 289), West Deer Township #3 (Tanker 290) and Richland Township (Tanker 241). In addition to drafting from several nearby ponds, the Tankers traveled repeatedly to neighboring Winfield Township to tap into the hydrants to refill their tanks. Once refilled, the Tankers returned to the fire scene and filled up the portable dump tanks, which were set up on the A-B corner of the structure and the B-C corner of the structure. While heading to the Saxonburg fire scene, Lick Hill Tanker 8-1, which was being operated by Lick Hill Fire Chief Clair Gold, collided with a pickup truck at the intersection of Freeport Road and Center Avenue in Butler Township. Neither Chief Gold nor the operator of the pickup truck were injured in the crash, however a passenger in the pickup truck sustained a minor shoulder and head injury, but refused medical attention. Both vehicles had to be towed from the scene. Chief 21-2 Dan Owens, who was assigned to R.I.T. Command, requested additional R.I.T. Teams to the scene for manpower. Marshall Township (Station 185), Zelienople (Rescue 22), Callery (Engine 19) and Evans City (Engine 20) all responded to the scene with additional R.I.T. Team personnel. Nearly 3 hours into the incident, firefighters were still having difficulty accessing the main body of fire, as conditions within the store made it too dangerous to attempt to send crews back inside and crews were still having difficulty trying to open up the two roofs to get to the fire. Command opted to utilize a backhoe, which belongs to the borough of Saxonburg, to breech the concrete block wall of the structure in efforts to expose the fire, so that the fatigued firefighters can darken the flames and put an end to the battle that they have been fighting for several hours. The backhoe was moved into position on side D of the structure at approximately 3:30 p.m. Under the direction of Saxonburg Fire Chief Gary Cooper, the backhoe operator knocked a gaping 7’ x 6’ hole in the concrete block wall on side D of the structure. Immediately after the wall was breeched, firefighters placed a portable deck gun in front of the opening and turned it on, allowing the water to shoot inside the store. Less than 10 minutes following the breech of the wall, heavy dark brown smoke began pouring out of one of the forced open doors on the A-B corner of the structure. The dark brown smoke also began seeping from the concrete blocks, just below the eaves on the A-B corner of the structure. Within minutes, the dark brown smoke changed to a dark gray colored smoke and began to mushroom from the roof of the structure, completely blanketing the extended aerial ladders. As the dark gray smoke continued to intensify as it billowed from the roof of the structure, it became obvious that the stubborn fire was being fueled by the oxygen from the breeched wall, allowing the fire to rage out of control as it consumed all the combustible materials in its path. Once fueled, the fire raced from the rear of the store to the front of the store in a matter of minutes. Orange colored smoke began seeping from the eaves above a large metal awning on side A of the structure. With the aid of a pike pole, a Fire Chief from a neighboring company broke out several large windows directly under the metal awning on side A, to expose the fire in the front portion of the store. Firefighters utilizing a portable deck gun and the master stream from Middlesex Township Ladder 16 began pouring water on the raging flames through the shattered front windows. Moments after the front windows were shattered, the large metal awning and a small portion of the front wall came crashing to the ground. Fortunately none of the firefighters operating in the area were injured. Following the collapse of the awning, heavy black smoke billowed from the entire roof of the structure. The mushroom like cloud of black smoke that billowed from the structure completely darkened out the afternoon sun. The severely weakened roof of the structure totally collapsed shortly after 4:00 p.m. The roof collapse finally gave the fatigued firefighters what they wanted, access to the fire. With the collapse of the roof, all five aerial master streams were put into operation to drown the intense fire that continued to rage within the structure. Tanker shuttle operations became more and more frequent, as the aerial master streams were using the water supply at a much faster rate than the attack lines did. Approximately 90 minutes after all five aerial master streams were put into operation, the bulk of the flames had been darkened. Command declared the fire under control nearly 6 hours after it began, however command advised Butler County 9-1-1 Center that crews would be remaining on the scene throughout the night, to douse hot spots. Command began releasing the R.I.T. Teams and other units from the scene shortly after 7:00 p.m. A few of the Tankers remained on the scene for additional water shuttles until approximately 10:00 p.m. Friedman’s grocery store is a family owned business that was founded in 1900. Currently there are 7 Friedman’s grocery stores, 6 of them are located throughout Butler County and the other is located in Morgantown, West Virginia. The Saxonburg store had 62 employees. The employees of the Saxonburg store will be reassigned to the remaining 5 stores in Butler County. Once the investigation into the cause of the fire is completed, the grocery store chain is planning on building a new store at the at the Saxonburg location. This marks the fourth fire to hit the Friedman’s grocery store chain in its 104-year history. Fire caused an estimated $8,000 in damages to the Friedman’s store on W. Jefferson Street in June 1922. Fire started in the back room of the Friedman’s store on Brady Street on May 14, 1988. The fire caused an estimated $1.2 million in damages and the store had to be rebuilt. Fire started in the back room of the Friedman’s store at the intersection of N. Main Street Extension and Mercer Road on March 2, 2002. The fire caused an estimated $3.5 million in damages and the store had to be rebuilt. Then the latest fire occurred at the Friedman’s store in Saxonburg. Over 100 firefighters from 30 fire departments, from Butler, Allegheny and Armstrong Counties responded to battle the stubborn blaze. Several other fire departments were on standby at various empty fire stations throughout Butler County, while the other departments were committed at the fire scene. The following fire departments battled the blaze; Saxonburg (Station 15), Penn Township (Station 11), Herman (Station 10), Valencia (Station 17), Evans City (Station 20), Buffalo Township (Station 27), Meridian (Station 3), Oakland Township (Station 35), Sarver (Station 36), Lyndora (Station 4), Winfield Township (Station 46), Greenwood Village (Station 5), South Butler (Station 7), Lick Hill (Station 8), East Butler (Station 9), Butler City (Station 1), Cranberry Township (Station 21), Callery (Station 19), Zelienople (Station 22), Freeport (Station 70), South Buffalo (Station 220), Kittanning, West Deer Township #1 (Station 288), West Deer Township #2 (Station 289), West Deer Township #3 (Station 290), Richland Township (Station 241), Citizens Hose (Station 167), Harrison Hills (Station 169), Eureka (Station 281) and Marshall Township (Station 185). The departments on standby included; Callery (Station 19), Mars (Station 18), Zelienople (Station 22), Worthington (Station 250), Elfinwild (Station 261) and Big Knob (Station 26). Saxonburg Police, along with Butler County Fire Police Association and Millvale Fire Police handled traffic control at and around the fire scene. Several members of the Butler Safety Council set up large canopy tents in the parking lot, to act as a rehab area for the emergency personnel. Chairs were set up under the tents for the fatigued firefighters to sit and rest. Several fans were also set up around the tents to help cool the firefighters down. The members of the Butler Safety Council also distributed cold drinks and food, which had been donated by various people and businesses, to the firefighters. Personnel from the American Red Cross Butler region were also at the scene distributing cold drinks and cold wet towels to the firefighters. The Pennsylvania State Police Fire Marshal is investigating the blaze, which totally destroyed the building and caused an estimated $4.5 million in damages. The last Saxonburg fire unit cleared from the scene at 7:15 a.m. Friday, May 14, 2004.

SAXONBURG STRUCTURE FIRE FRIEDMAN'S SUPERMARKET 05/13/2004

On Thursday, May 13, 2004 at approximately 12:30 p.m. Butler County 9- ...

Updated: Apr 10, 2007 1:34pm EST

AIRCRAFT FIREFIGHTING CLASS : Aircraft firefighting class held at the training facility in Findlay Township on 11/14/2009. Firefighters from Moon Township (Station 197) and Sewickley (Station 258) participated.

AIRCRAFT FIREFIGHTING CLASS

Aircraft firefighting class held at the training facility in Findlay T ...

Updated: Nov 19, 2009 10:35am EST

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