July 14th, 2008

At 20:50 hours, Engine 23, Engine 24, Squad 22, and Tower 21 were dispatched to the 800 block of Amaryllis Ave for a reported natural gas odor in the area. Companies investigated several homes in the area and found a natural gas grill with a cut hose that was connected to the gas service. A crew from Engine 23 was able to secure the gas line at the source. Gas meters were also used to check the rest of the structure. Companies operated on scene for about 30 minutes.

July 13th, 2008

At 22:05 hours, Engine 23, Engine 24, and Car 20 were dispatched to the area of the River Dell High School Field for a reported brush fire. A 10’ x 20’ area of burning brush was located on the north side of the field area. The crew from Engine 23 extinguished the fire with the booster line and overhauled the area. Units operated on scene for about 45 minutes.

July 11th, 2008

Under the lights in Wyckoff the Sluggers lost to the Wyckoff FD 8 to 7.  With a decent showing of players and support from the fruit punch mix on the bench, the Sluggers just could not stay ahead.  Team Mix-ologist J. Moretti reported that he was happy to take on his new role and leave the coaching to President and General Manager B. Bonte.  The game had some tremendous base running, head first slides and of course one ball to one face, but it just wasn't enough.  The OFD Coaching Staff has called for an immediate change in the team's diet, more to follow.  The Sluggers are now 5 and 4 in the season that just will not end.

July 8th, 2008

After 30 years, the Office of Driver Training announced today that Ex-Chief Stan Kufel #34 has successfully completed his training and has qualified to drive and operate his first piece of apparatus, Engine 24.  Congrats Stan!

July 5th, 2008

Today at 13:54 Oradell units were dispatched to a 4 car MVA on Kinderkamack Road at the Emerson border.  Oradell Car 20, Car 201, Squad 22 and Engine 24 responded.  Also on scene was Emerson FD and BLS as well as New Milford BLS.  Units from the Squad assisted with one vehicle while the Engine had the water supply.  Units were on scene about 20 minutes.

July 4th, 2008

Today the OFD members marched in and enjoyed Oradell's annual July 4th Parade.  Thanks to to Kevin Joyce for the photos, please visit his site at http://www.kjoycephotography.exposuremanager.com/g/

 
 

June 30th, 2008

At 14:41 hours, Squad 22 and Engine 24 were dispatched to the 900 block of Oradell Avenue for a reported motor vehicle crash with injuries.  Arriving units found a single car that had struck a tree.  Crews assisted with victim removal and were back in-service after about 30 minutes.

 

June 27th, 2008

This evening, Firefighter Tony Meo was awarded with the 2008 Knights of Columbus Award for his outstanding work with organizing the fire department’s team that participated in the Relay For Life event last month sponsored by the American Cancer Society.  The fire department team raised the 4th highest amount out of all of the teams and had a great turn out for the event.  Congratulations Dewey!

 

June 23rd, 2008

At 18:02 hours a Tri-Boro Alarm was transmitted for Oradell Health Care, bringing fire units from Oradell, River Edge, & New Milford to 600 Kinderkamack Road in Oradell for a reported fire.  Upon arrival the fire was out, however there was still a smoke condition on the second floor.  Units assisted with vent and checked for extension yielding negative results.  All Tri-Boro units were returned after operating on scene for about 30 minutes.

June 22nd, 2008

The Sluggers had a good weekend playing Glen Rock FD on Friday Night and winning 19 to 11.  Then The Sluggers went on to play Maywood FD on Sunday morning also winning 17 to 14.  Coach G. Trass reported that the mental conditioning program he started seems to be working, but time will tell.  The Sluggers are now 5 and 3 in the longest season ever.

June 17th, 2008

In the late afternoon, Oradell Units were dispatched to Hemlock Drive for a tree on fire.  Oradell Car 20, Car 201 and Engine 24 responded.  Units located a PSE&G power line that had come in contact with the tree causing the fire.  PSE&G Electric was notified and responded to remove the wire from the tree.  Units were on scene about an hour.  Photo provided by K. Joyce.

June 16th, 2008

At 02:54 hrs, Central Dispatch was notifed by the Newark Fire Department that the Oradell Fire Department Dive Team was requested in Newark at the intersection of Raymond Blvd & Somme St to assist with a police investigation.  Car 20, Utility 25, SCUBA 26, and Marine 1 responded to the scene and worked with the other dive teams from Wallington FD, Lyndhurst FD, and Newark FD to locate a person in the Passaic River.  Units were back in the borough around 06:30 hrs.  This is the 3rd time since 2004 that the Oradell Fire Department Dive Team has responded to this stretch of road in Newark.

June 13th, 2008

At 09:45 hrs, Engine 24, Tower 21, Car 20 and Car 201 responded to the 700 block of Cooper Ave for a reported oven fire.  Engine 24 secured a water supply upon arrival and started their investigation with Tower 21.  Upon entering the kitchen there was a small fire in the oven, the power to the oven was shut off and the fire went out.  Thermal Imaging Cameras were used to check for extension and yielded negative results.  Units were up from the scene after 20 minutes.

June 4th, 2008

At 5:05 am Oradell units were dispatched to the 900 block of Oradell Avenue for a burning power line.  Car 20, Car 201 and Engine 23 responded.  Crews stood by until the area was secured by PSE&G and then extinguished the affected area.  All units returned by 6:30 am.

 

May 30th, 2008

At 12:26 hours, Squad 22, Utility 25, Car 20, and Car 201 responded to the 600 block of Ridgewood Ave. for a possible hazardous materials incident. First arriving units found a drum that had been accumulating numerous types of chemicals and aerosol cans over time. New Milford Haz-Mat, Bergen County Haz-Mat and NJ DEP responded along with New Milford EMS and BOX 54. New Milford Haz-Mat tested the material and after working with County and State Officials, NJ DEP contacted a clean up company to remove the material. Oradell units remained on scene until about 18:45 when the material was removed. Photos from Brett Dzadik.

 
 
 

May 27th, 2008

Engine 23 and U-25 operated at the Oradell Dam this evening for a Drafting Drill. Units setup hard suction and drafted while operating master streams.

 

May 26th, 2008

Oradell members turned out today to honor all veterans and current military personal during the Oradell Memorial Day Parade. A brief memorial service was held in front of Fire Headquarters prior to the parade.

 

May 25th, 2008

Oradell units were dispatched for a reported brush fire on an island in the middle of the Hackensack river tonight. Several juveniles were removed from the area by police units and reported they had a fire lit on the island. C20, C201, Engine 23, Squad 22 and SCUBA 26 responded. A staging area was established near the river and two members wearing survival suits swam across the water to the island for investigation. The fire area was located and determined to be out upon arrival, a secondary search of the island revealed no other hazards. All units operated for about 90 minutes.

 

May 20th, 2008

At 15:52hrs, Engine 23, Squad 22, and Chief 201 responded to the intersection of Sussex and Ridgewood for a reported pole on fire.  Arriving units found a public service electric pole that was on fire.  PSE&G arrived, made the pole safe and used a water can to knock the fire down.  Units cleared after about 35 minutes.

 

May 18th, 2008

Oradell Units turned out after 21:00 hours for a reported fire alarm in the 400 block of Demarest Avenue. Upon arrival of the Oradell Police it was reported as an Oven Fire that was out. Oradell Car 20, Engine 23, Tower 21, Engine 24 and Squad 22 all responded. Units checked for extension and confirmed the fire was out. Crews used several fans to remove a large amount of smoke from the house before picking up. Units operated about 25 minutes.

May 18th, 2008

The Sluggers played Saddle Brook FD today and took a loss 14 to 6. Coach Moretti stated "I have scheduled a team meeting to discuss several issues." When asked if the First Baseman will ever return, Coach Moretti stated "we are moving forward, even if he doesn't want to."

May 16th, 2008

On Friday evening members of the department participated in an American Cancer Society Relay For Life Event sponsored by the River Dell High School.  Members of the department raised over $4700 for this event.  Thanks to all who participated and supported our team!

 
 

May 13th, 2008

Congratulations to Joseph Kufel #54 for completing Firefighter I and receiving his black shield.

May 10th, 2008

The Sluggers faced Paramus FD tonight with an all-star turn out, and won 9 to 7.  The Sluggers got off to a great start by bringing in 4 runs, but quickly lost the lead over two innings when Paramus came back with 7 runs.  Several great defensive plays by both teams kept the game locked.  In the 4th a solo home run by P. Trass opened the game back up and brought the Sluggers within range.  In the 7th the Sluggers scored 4 runs through 8 batters and held the lead with a strong defense.  Coach Moretti stated "I think the slow economy combined with the rising cost of fuel, is driving the team right now".

May 5th, 2008

Department members took a few minutes before heading on fund drive, for the annual group photo.  Thank you to Glenn Schneider for taking the picture. 

April 26th, 2008

At 16:52 hours, Chief 20, Chief 201, Tower 21 and Engine 24 were dispatched to Laurel Ave in River Edge on the 2nd Alarm assignment.  River Edge units had heavy fire venting out of the top floor of a house upon arrival.  The Tower company assisted with overhaul while the Engine company assisted with exterior operations.  All units operated on scene for about 2 hours.

 
 

April 25th, 2008

In the late afternoon Oradell units were dispatched for a possible brush fire in the Oradell Reservoir area. At the same time Haworth units were receiving calls and being dispatched as well. Haworth units located the fire on their side of the water off of Lake Shore Drive. The fire was deep into the United Water property around the Reservoir and required several Engines and a Drafting operation for water supply. Oradell Car 20, 201 and Engine 24 responded to assist Haworth and other agencies. Oradell Engine 24 was deep into the woods being supplied by Haworth Engine 162 which was drafting. Units operated about 3 hours due to the location and amount of area that had burned.

 
 
 

April 18th, 2008

At 1:20am Oradell and River Edge FD units were dispatched as a second alarm to New Milford for a house fire on Ridge Street. New Milford units had heavy fire showing from several sides upon arrival. Oradell Chief 20 and 201 went to the scene while Tower 21 and Engine 24 stood by at New Milford CO# 2 with River Edge Engine 13. River Edge Ladder 11 and Engine 12 operated with New Milford at the scene. Stand by units were in New Milford for several hours.

April 13th, 2008

The Sluggers pulled out another win today against Mahwah FD, winning 14 to 10. Although our Star First Baseman was not there, the sluggers took the lead early and held on for the win. Coach Moretti stated "knowing the game locations and time is the most important part of any game!"

April 12th, 2008

OFD units were dispatched for a Motor Vehicle Crash at the intersection of Oradell Ave and Kinderkamack Road.  Car 20, Car 201 and Squad 22 responded.  Upon arrival the Squad made the vehicles safe and controlled a small fluid spill.  New Milford EMS was also on scene treating several minor injuries.  Crews operated about 20 minutes.

 

April 6th, 2008

In what some call an incredible show of sports creams, the OFD Sluggers pinched, pulled, staggered and labored to a 13-4 victory over Hawthorne FD today.  Coach Kufel stated "with Coach Moretti on the 15 day DL, I will have my work cut out, but we will prevail".  Whatever the situation, the Sluggers have a long season ahead, stay tuned.

March 26th, 2008

Better late than never, the Oradell Fire Department hosted their 2008 Installation Dinner this past Saturday. Both line and administrative officers were welcomed into their new positions by the Mayor and Council and various awards and department recognitions were given.

 
 

March 17th, 2008

At 12:24 hours Oradell 21 Truck was special called to the Boulevard in New Milford for a Structure Fire. Asst Chief 201 operated with the crew from NMFD Engine 32 on knocking the fire down while the crew from 21 Truck performed vent and overhaul. Oradell units operated for about an hour. Photos from Brett Dzadik

 

March 16th, 2008

In honor of St. Patricks Day, members of the Oradell FD marched in the annual Parade in Bergenfield today.  Thanks to M. Somma for the pictures

 

March 15th, 2008

Work continues at the firehouse this afternoon as Lt. Bonte, Chief Burns, and Probie FF Gourley install a new hose reel in the apparatus bay next to Squad 22

 

March 8th, 2008

Recent wet weather has brought the local streams and rivers to near capacity again.  Oradell FD members spent some time Friday night checking all the water rescue equipment just in case.

 

February 27th, 2008

During the evening rush, Oradell units were dispatched to assist the Police with a 2 car crash on Oradell Avenue.  Chief 20, 201, Squad 22 and Engine 24 responded for a quick battery disconnect and to control a small fluid spill.  Oradell units were on scene about 15 minutes.

 

February 25th, 2008

Oradell FD members went through extensive New Jersey Transit Bus Training this evening, learning about the operations and emergency procedures of the most commonly found buses in our area.  The in-house lecture was followed by a tour and orientation of the local NJT Oradell Bus Garage.  Thanks to Lou and Bob of NJT for their assistance.

 
 

February 22nd, 2008

In response to the motor vehicle crash Thursday night, PSEG and an environmental survey and clean-up company were deployed to the Hackensack River in the area of the Oradell Ave. Bridge.  Oradell's Dive/Water Rescue units were deployed to that area as well to assist and monitor the safety of the company's boat crew. Car 20, Car 201, SCUBA-26, Utility 25, Marine 1, and Marine 2 operated on scene for about 3 hours.

 

February 21st, 2008

At 20:54 hours, all Oradell units were dispatched to the intersection of Kinderkamack Road and Orchard Ave, for a reported motor vehicle crash. Chief 201 was first to arrive on scene and reported a serious two vehicle crash with a working fire. Chief 20 arrived on scene and assumed command. Squad 22 and Engine 24 arrived on scene and both stretched 1-3/4” attack lines. Companies waited for Public Service to give the all clear before engaging in fire attack as one utility pole was struck which carried several high voltage lines and transformers, cable, and phone. Companies made good progress and made a quick but difficult knock down on both vehicles, which had become fully involved. Tower 21 and Engine 23 provided lighting and other support services on scene. New Milford Haz-Mat also responded to the scene to provide decon services to those members who had become contaminated from the liquids that had leaked from the transformers. All companies cleared from the scene at 23:45 hours.

During this period, three alarms of fire were transmitted and were handled by Engine 23 and New Milford FD.

 
 
 
 

February 18th, 2008

At 12:33 Oradell units were dispatched to the 700 block of Schirra Drive for an unknown electrical emergency.  Oradell Engine 24 and Tower 21 responded with Captain VanRiper (202) establishing command.  Units quickly located a problem with the electrical service coming into the home, shut the main service off and called Public Service Electric and Gas.  Units stood by for an extended period after being told that PSE&G would have a delayed response.  After becoming available Car 20 (Chief Burns) arrived and made several other attempts to get PSE&G on scene with no success.  Oradell FD units finally cleared around 15:15, still waiting for the power company to arrive.

February 12th, 2008

At 03:48 hrs, units were dispatched to the 200 block of Kinderkamack Road for Carbon Monoxide alarm activation in an apartment.  A primary search by Engine 24 found high level readings on the 1st and 2nd floor of the building.  Engine 24 and Tower 21 evacuated residents until the source of the problem could be found.  A problem with a roof-top heating unit was located and the Tower Company setup a positive pressure vent and residents repopulated the building shortly after.  Companies operated on scene for about 1.5 hours.

Pictured below (L to R) FF Farinella, Asst. Chief Kahill, FF Schneider after the residents had repopulated the building.

February 7th, 2008

As part of a pre-arranged cover-up in our "extended" mutual-aid, Oradell Engine 24 along with Waldwick Tower and Mahwah Engine 1 provided coverage for the Boro of Ramsey at their Eastside firehouse while on a funeral detail. Units were tapped out for a 1 call, a fuel leak on Rt. 17.

 
 

February 3rd, 2008

At 12:58 hours Oradell units were dispatched to the 200 block of Grove Street for a burning odor inside the home. Upon arrival Chief 20 assumed command and Chief 201 took operations. E-24 was 1st due and grabbed the water supply at Elm and Grove Streets. Tower 21 took the front of the building and SQ-22 had the secondary water source north of the structure. A primary search by E-24 and Chief 201 yielded a smoke condition on the second floor. Units found a burning vinyl window frame which appeared to be ignited by a beam of sunlight that had reflected off the mirror at the window. Units made a quick stop and checked for further extension. Units operated on scene for about 45 minutes.

 
 

January 25th, 2008

Engine 23 along with Washington Township Tower Ladder provided cover-up services Friday night for Paramus FD Co. # 1 while they attended their annual installation dinner. Asst. Chief Kahill operated as the Boro Wide Tour Commander. No hits while in the boro for any of the companies.

Back in town, Tri-Boro units responded to 600 Kinderkamack Road (Oradell Healthcare) for the reported odor of smoke.

 

January 15th, 2008

Last Night, Chief Kevin Burns presented Probationary Firefighter Rory Gourley with his "Probie" shield.  Rory has spent the last year and a half in the departments junior program.

January 14th, 2008

At 14:41hrs, units were dispatched to the 700 block of Greentree Lane for a Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarm activation.  Arriving units took initial readings of 33ppm upstairs and 37ppm downstairs in the home.  Secondary readings yielded 355ppm and rising near the  heating unit in the basement.  PSEG was notified to assist in shutting down the heating unit.  Units operated on scene for about 1 hour. 

January 8th, 2008

At 21:12 hours, Car 20, Engine 23, and Tower 21 responded to the 800 block of Oradell Ave to assist the PD with a welfare check and a severe water leak.  The engine and truck companies joined forces to slow the water leak that resulted from a broken copper pipe.  Two members from the engine company went out of service for decon after returning to quarters.

At 23:11 hours, a 911 caller reported a possible structure fire near the intersection of Midland Road and Seminole Street.  Car 201 was first to arrive on scene a reported that an outside fireplace was in use at that location, resulting in a good intent call, holding remaining units in quarters.

January 7th, 2008

At 22:18hrs, Car 20, Car 201, Engine 23, Engine 24, and Tower 21 were dispatched to the 600 block of 2nd Street for a reported structure fire. Arriving units found a light smoke condition on the first floor. Further investigation found a problem with the compressor for the refrigerator.  The Truck Company setup a postive pressure vent. Photo Unit 1 and NMFD Ex-Chief Stormer also made it to the scene.

 

January 5th, 2008

Today the 2008 Oradell Fire Department Line Officers were sworn in.  The ceremony took place at the annual reorganization meeting of the Mayor and Council.  Councilman Joseph Murray who serves as the Fire Commissioner administered the oath to the Officers.

 

January 4th, 2008

At 14:10 hours Oradell units were requested to respond to the 1000 block of Oradell Avenue for a motor vehicle crash with a fluid spill.  Oradell Chief 20 (Burns) and Engine 24 responded to the scene.  The Engine company controlled the spill and made both vehicles safe.  Oradell units operated for about 20 minutes.

 

January 3rd, 2008

Oradell units responded to 3 calls today along with other Tri-boro units, as our local schools kept us busy.  While responding to an automatic Tri-boro alarm in River Edge, 21 Truck was diverted to another River Edge school for a stuck occupied elevator.  Upon arrival 21 truck went to work and removed one person from the elevator without incident.  Later in the evening Oradell units were called for another automatic alarm at another River Edge school rounding out the day.

January 1st, 2008

The members and officers of the Oradell Fire Department wish everyone a happy and safe new year. 2008 has already brought immediate changes to the department with the election of new officers:

Kevin Burns, Chief of Department
Derek Kahill, Assistant Chief
William Van Riper, Captain
Dan Nywening, 1st Lieutenant
Robert Capicchioni, 2nd Lieutenant
Brian Bonte, 3rd Lieutenant