Friendship Hook & Ladder Company No. 1

News Archive

May 28, 2007 - Today was the annual Memorial Day Parade held in town. Ladder 15 and Montgomery County Ladder 37 (New Hanover) set up a ladder arch at the main intersection. Several different organizations were recognized in the parade, including military veterans, high school and alumni bands and marching units, NJROTC, Salvation Army, Boyertown EMS, scout troops, and many others. Though it was a cloudy morning, it was still wonderful to see so many residents come out to support and remember all of those who gave the ultimate sacrifice. Thanks to all who came out!

May 25, 2007 - At 1256 hours, Company 15 was requested by Engine 16-2 (Keystone) to assist with debris clean-up at a non-injury motor vehicle accident on Farmington Avenue near South Reading Avenue. Utility 15 reported, arriving on location at 1300 hours, and began to assist with removing glass from the roadway. A truck with a fladbed trailer was holding two vehicles, and was too tall to fit under the railroad bridge, which ended up totalling both vehicles that were on the trailer. After the debris was removed, Company 15 received another call at 1320 hours for a residential lock-out on Franklin Street in the Borough. Utility 15 reported back to station and took Engine 15 to Franklin Court Apartments. Engine 15 was recalled enroute by PD, and was at station at 1330 hours.

May 23, 2007 - At 1355 hours, Companies 15 and 16 (Keystone) were dispatched to Farmington Avenue, between South Reading Avnenue and Englesville Road, for an unknown-injury motor vehicle accident. Rescue and Utility 15 responded and arrived on location at 1404 hours to a single vehicle versus a utility pole on an embankment. Crews confirmed negative injuries, but had to secure the area due to the sheared pole. Both companies remained on-scene for some time until the utility company arrived on location, then went available. Company 15 was at station at 1533 hours.

May 19, 2007 - At 1319 hours, Companies 15 and 16 (Keystone) were dispatched to 49 South Reading Avenue for a possible hazardous materials spill in the roadway. 15-12 (Bingaman) arrived on location at 1322 hours to find a yellow powder in front of Schaeffer's Restaurant that was burning through the asphalt. Crews roped off the area, pulled bystanders away, and requested residents in the block to close up all windows and doors. Command called for Berks County EMA to assist in identifying the material. After EMA arrived on location, a witness stated they saw an unidentified person toss a burning bucket behind a closed gas station directly across the street from Station 15. A crew walked over to investigate, and found a white bucket that was upside-down and burning, and it contained what appeared to be the same yellow powder that was on the street. The crew sent to the bucket roped off that area and stood by with ABC extinguishers. Firefighters donned SCBA and approached the bucket to obtain information from the label and proceeded to contact a representative from the company that owned the bucket. The representative reported to the scene, and stated that the burning yellow material was not what was supposed to be in that bucket. So the EMA and DEP continued to test the material. The results came out that the material was some type of fertilizer that chemically reacted with another substance and caught fire. Crews the carefully extinguished the burning bucket and assisted EMA with clean-up. All units were placed available and at station at 1725 hours.

May 17, 2007 - At 2220 hours, Rescue 15 was dispatched to assist Companies 19 (Earl) and 5 (Oley) on a motor vehicle accident with multple patients entrapped. Rescue and Utility 15 responded, arriving on location to 2231 hours. Crews used 2 hydraulic tools to perform a roof removal, and also assisted the multiple incoming EMS units with patient care. After all patients were extricated, and equipment was secured, Company 15 went available and was at station at 0033 hours.

May 5, 2007 - At 1032 hours, Company 15 was requested to relocate to Station 3 (Stonersville) because they were at a structure fire in Birdsboro. As crews were getting ready to leave, the Company was dispatched at 1038 hours to cover for Company 3 for an automatic fire alarm on Shelbourne Road. Engine, Ladder, and Rescue 15 all responded, but were recalled enroute. The trucks all returned to Station 3 to stand-by. At 1157 hours, Rescue 15 was requested to report to the scene of the fire to replace the current RIT assigned to the job. Rescue 15 arrived and relieved the RIT of their duties and took over. After standing by at the scene for some time, Rescue 15 was placed available, and returned to Boyertown, as well as the Engine and Ladder. All Company 15 units were available at 1347 hours.

April 22, 2007 - At 1416 hours, Company 15 was dispatched to stand-by at Station 19 (Earl), while they were out on a mountain fire in Pike Township. After arrival at Station 19, Utility 15 responded with manpower to Pike Township, while Engine and Rescue 15 remained at the station. While on stand-by, Company 15 covered 3 emergency calls for Station 19, 2 brush fires and a propane leak. After clearing the calls and stand-by, Company 15 was at station at 2004 hours.

To see a video of the airdrop from the brush fire, click here.

April 21, 2007 - Today, the Friendship Hook & Ladder Apparatus Crew sponsored a fundraiser carwash at the station. Three lanes were opened up inside the engine room, and vehicles were allowed to drive right through as crew members washed and dried them. The day was a great success, and everybody had lots of fun! Look forward to more car washes in the future, and thank you for your continued support!

April 16, 2007 - At 1737 hours Company 15 was dispatched to assist Montgomery County Station 79 (Upper Pottsgrove) on a dwelling fire. Engine 15 went en route and arrived on location at 1741 hours. Crews entered the structure and reported a possible heater malfunction. The dwelling was naturally ventilated, as another crew also went to the roof and checked the heater vent. The heater was shut off, and the problem was isolated to that. Company 15 went available and was at station at 1826 hours.

April 14, 2007 - At 1232 hours Companies 15 and 16 (Keystone) were dispatched to 407 East Philadelphia Avenue in the Borough for a possible structure fire, reported smoke in the building. 16-10 (Hojecki) arrived on location reporting smoke showing and ordered the first alarm. Engine 15 arrived at 1240 hours and the crew deployed an 1 3/4" handline into the second floor apartment. The fire was located in the front bedroom, and as the crew found the fire, a flashover occurred and the crew backed out. Once the line was charged, the crew performed an aggressive interior attack that was coordinated with vertical ventilation. A second alarm was requested for manpower. The fire took about an hour to bring under control, with hours of extensive overhaul. The cause of the fire is under investigation, but was believed to be started around a computer and appeared to be electrical in nature. Company 15 was placed available and at station at 1702 hours. Great job to all crews on-scene!

April 12, 2007 - Today, Ladder 15 and a crew traveled to the Pottstown Highland Memorial Park to participate in the funeral service of FBI agent Barry Bush, who was killed in the line of duty. Bush formerly served as a police officer for the Boyertown Police Department, and also the Pottstown Police Department. Ladder 15 and Montgomery County Ladder 69 (Pottstown) set up a ladder arch near the entrance to the Park to honor Special Agent Bush. The Company expresses its condolences to the family of Barry Bush, to the Boyertown and Pottstown Police Departments, and to the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

April 8, 2007 - At 2334 hours, Ladder 15 was requested by Montgomery County to assist Station 79 (Upper Pottsgrove) with a structure fire at 1547 Farmington Avenue. Ladder and Engine 15 responded, arrived on location at 2345 hours, shortly after Upper Pottsgrove units, to a fully involved detached garage. Crews pulled an 1 3/4" handline to attack the fire, while other crews donned SCBA and entered the rubble to help overhaul. Crews remained on-scene for just over an hour to extinguish all hot spots. Company 15 was available and at station at 0118 hours.

April 3, 2007 - Today, the Friendship Hook & Ladder Fire Company received the last of our items purchased through the FEMA grant. Our last items received were complete sets of Globe G-Xtreme turnout gear. The Globe G-Xtreme gear is the best gear out on the market and combines both comfort and function into a strong, durable set of turnout gear. Through the FEMA grant, every single firefighter received a complete set of Globe G-Xtreme turnout gear, a Scott AV-3000 facepiece with voice amplifier and a LED Survivor light. We would like to thank everyone for their support and we look forward to using our new gear.

March 26, 2007 - At 0243 hours, Companies 15 and 16 (Keystone) were dispatched to 89 Sunset Dr. for a reported structure fire. Additional reports were given for multiple calls reporting a working fire. 15-10 (Neubauer) arrived on location and reported a single-family dwelling well-involved. Engine 15 arrived on location, followed shortly by the Ladder, and assumed first-in duties. The dwelling soon became fully involved and collapsed, due to problems with water supply and a steep driveway that exceeded 1200 feet. Additional alarms were struck for tankers due to that reason. Crews performed a defensive operation and went into service with numerous 1 3/4" handlines until the bulk of the fire was under control. Then, some crews entered the remains and began to overhaul and extinguish hot-spots. Units were on-scene for approximately 7 hours until the fire was deemed out and all hot-spots were extinguished. Companies went available and Company 15 was at station at 0958 hours.

March 15, 2007 - At 1429 hours, Company 15 was dispatched to assist Company 19 (Earl) on a vehicle fire on Powder Mill Hollow Road. Engine 15 responded, arriving on location at 1440 hours to a fully-involved vehicle, and assumed first in duties. Crews deployed an 1 3/4" handline and attacked the fire, then also pulled the piercing nozzle to extinguish hotspots. The fire was placed under control quickly, and then crews cleaned up equipment. After wrapping up, Company 15 was placed available and at station at 1539 hours.

March 15, 2007 - At 1308 hours, Companies 15 and 16 (Keystone) were dispatched to the area of South Reading Avenue and North Sunrise Lane for a motor vehicle accident with injuries. 15-13 (Miller) arrived on location, reporting a single-vehicle accident, with one male in the vehicle to be evaluated by EMS. Rescue 15 responded, arriving on location at 1316 hours. Crews stabilized the vehicle with rescue struts, and assisted EMS with patient extrication. Crews then waited for the tow company to arrive, and then all units were placed available and Company 15 was at station at 1407 hours.

March 14, 2007 - At 2120 hours, Companies 15 and 16 (Keystone) were dispatched to the area of Greshville and Winding Roads for a motor vehicle accident with injuries. 15-13 (Miller) arrived on location at 2125 hours and reported one vehicle into a bridge with 2 male patients. Rescue 15 responded and arrived shortly after, and crews split up, helping EMS with patient care and also stabilizing the vehicle. After both patients were handed to EMS, crews cleaned up minor debris and awaited the arrival of PSP and the tow company. After the tow company secured the vehicle, units were placed available, and Company 15 was at station at 2246 hours.

March 10, 2007 - Tonight, the Apparatus Crew hosted a St. Patty's Day Dance at the station. The dance was planned as a fundraiser for the Ladder Truck Fund. The turnout was great, with approximately 160 people who came out to support us. Everyone had a great time hanging out and dancing to music played by DJ Randy Michaels and Emerald Sound. Thanks to everyone who came out and helped support the Apparatus Crew and to make a fun and enjoyable night!

March 9, 2007 - At 0422 hours, Companies 15 and 16 (Keystone) were dispatched to 506 East Philadelphia Avenue in the Borough for an unknown-injury accident. Rescue 15 responded and arrived on location to one vehicle into a parked van. PD reported negative injuries, and so crews took care of debris. Fire police remained on-scene until the tow company arrived, while the companies returned to station. All units were placed at station at 0537 hours.

March 8, 2007 - At 1545 hours, Companies 15 and 16 (Keystone) were dispatched to the intersection of North Reading Avenue and Spring Street in the Borough for an unknown-injury accident. Rescue 15 responded, arriving on location at 1550 hours to a two-vehicle accident in the intersection with two patient evaluations. Crews powered down the vehicle and cleaned up minor debris. After the vehicles were removed by the tow company, all units were placed available and Company 15 was at station at 1629 hours.

March 8, 2007 - At 1041 hours, Company 15 was dispatched with the first alarm assignment to assist Company 19 (Earl) on a structure fire at 857 Mountain Road. Ladder and Engine 15 responded, arriving on location at 1054 hours. The fire originated in a small gas fireplace on the second floor, and crews performed overhaul of the surrounding floor and walls due to extension in a void space. After the affected area was opened up and all the hotspots were wet down, companies went available and Company 15 was at station at 1222 hours.

February 25, 2007 - At 0011 hours, Ladder 15 was dispatched to assist Montgomery County Station 67 (Gilbertsville) on a building fire at 823 East Philadelphia Avenue at Movie Gallery. Ladder, Engine, and Rescue 15 responded, given the additional of an odor in the building, with the Ladder arriving on location at 0018 hours. Ladder 15 assumed first-in, and crews went to the roof to begin checking HVAC units. Additional crews from both companies also entered the building and removed ceiling tiles to check for a possible electrical problem. After searching the building and checking further, the odor was no longer imminent, and no cause was found. Company 15 was placed available and was at station at 0106 hours.

February 13, 2007 - At 1808 hours, Ladder 15 and Company 17 (Liberty) were dispatched to assist Montgomery County Station 67 (Gilbertsville) on a building fire at 116 Wilson Avenue. Additional was given to responding units that it was the Berks Products complex, and there was a fully involved building. Ladder 15 arrived on location at 1821 hours just behind Engine 67, to a large garage, fully involved, with multiple explosions. The explosions were caused by numerous oxyacetylene cylinders rupturing, which caused them to act as projectiles from the building. Ladder 15 set up the main, and began to flow water onto the building, and also protected a residential exposure. Numerous master streams were put into place at a distance from the building due to the explosion dangers. Crews battled extreme cold temperatures and freezing precipitation, and so additional alarms were struck for manpower, and also water supply. The fire took about 2 hours to bring under control, with extensive overhaul to follow. When the fire was out, it was found that 6 cement trucks and a loader were destroyed. When all hot spots were extinguished, and the State Fire Marshall conduted his investigation, Company 15 went available and was at station at 0044 hours. Thanks to Company 19 (Earl) for standing-by at our station while we were at the fire!

February 9, 2007 - At 1623 hours, Ladder 15 was dispatched to assist Company 49 (Amity) on an oven fire at 236 Buckhead Lane. Ladder 15 responded with a full crew, arriving on location at 1633 hours, with reports that the fire was out, and there was a smoke condition in the structure. Ladder 15's crew assisted Engine 49's crew in naturally ventilating the structure and assuring that there was no extension around the appliance. After the fire was deemed out and the structure was ventilated, Companies went available, and Company 15 was at station at 1654 hours.

February 7, 2007 - At 0806 hours, Ladder 15 was dispatched to assist Montgomery County Station 37 (New Hanover) on a chimney fire at 2314 Bromley Drive. Ladder 15 responded, due to Ladder 37 being out of service, and arrived on location at 0820 hours. Initial reports were that there were visible flames and smoke from the chimney, so Ladder 15 was instructed to set up the main to the top of the chimney. Crews removed the top of the chimney and checked down the inside. There were no signs of fire. Crews broke down the Ladder, and went available shortly after, and Company 15 was at station at 0910 hours.

February 6, 2007 - At 0843 hours, Company 15 was dispatched to assist Montgomery County Station 67 (Gilbertsville) on a motor vehicle accident with entrapment. Rescue and Engine 15 responded, arriving on location at 0846 hours to a two-vehicle accident, with one patient entrapped, and one vehicle well-involved with fire. Crews assisted in extinguishing the vehicle fire, and also transferring the patient of that vehicle to the awaiting Med-Evac helicopter. The heavily entrapped driver of the second vehicle was pronounced dead on-scene by the Montgomery County Coroner, and crews assisted with extrication and recovery. After all was complete, Company 15 went available and at station at 1240 hours.

February 5, 2007 - At 1020 hours, Ladder 15 was dispatched to assist Company 5 (Oley) on a structure fire at 27 Rose Virginia Road. The Ladder responded, arriving on location at 1037 hours, with instructions to set up by Engine 5. Crews split up, with some entering the structure to perform an interior attack, and others setting up ground ladders and conducting ventilation. The condition of the structure began to deteriorate, and so all personnel were ordered to evacuate the building. All units switched from interior to exterior operations, and Ladder 15 was set up to flow CAFS through the main. Personnel remained on-scene for hours, with extensive overhaul. Company 15 was placed available, and was placed at station at 1526 hours. Thanks to Montgomery County Station 37 (New Hanover) for relocating and standing-by at our station with Rescue and Ladder 37 while we were at the structure fire.

While standing-by, 16-10 (Hojecki) called in a motor vehicle accident at North Reading Avenue and Spring Street in the Borough. Units were dispatched at 1445 hours, and Rescue and Ladder 37, and Utility 15 responded, arriving on location at 1526 hours. Crews set up stabilization of the vehicle and initiated patient care until EMS arrived. After the patient was transferred to EMS, and fluids and debris were controlled, companies were placed availiable and at station at 1526 hours.

February 3, 2007 - At 1048 hours, Ladder 15 was requested by Montgomery County to assist Montgomery County Station 67 (Gilbertsville) and Station 14 (Bally) on a structure fire on Hoffmansville Road next door to the Shepherd of the Hills Church. Ladder 15 responded immediately with a full crew, and arrived on location at 1056, assuming first-in. 14-13 (Mutter) arrived on location shortly before Ladder 15, and reported a working fire inside a one-story carpentry workshop, with flames showing through the roof. The crew from the Ladder entered the structure, and encountered a medium smoke condition, and a small fire working up the wall. The crew quickly contained the fire with pressurized water extinguishers, and began overhaul around the affected wall. The fire was deemed accidental and caused by shorted electrical wires beneath the wall. When the fire was deemed completely out, Companies went available and Company 15 was at station at 1241 hours.

February 3, 2007 - Throughout the past few months, The Friendship Hook & Ladder Fire Company has been hosting auctions by George Jacob Auctioneering. Firefighters and their family members help out with the auction by running the kitchen and raising money to proceed the Apparatus Crew. For more information about George Jacob Auctioneering, or to find out dates for future auctions, please feel free to call the Station at (610)367-2300, or e-mail the website administrator!

January 29, 2007 - At 2338 hours, Rescue 15 was dispatched to assist Company 17 (Liberty) on a motor vehicle accident with entrapment at the intersection of North Reading Avenue and Rowell Road, right next to Station 17. Rescue 15 responded with a full crew, given additional of a pick-up truck on its side with one unconscious male entrapped. Rescue 15 arrived on location at 2348 hours and immediately began stabilization of the vehicle with rescue struts. Company 17 handled a landing zone in a field by their station, and also pulled a 1 3/4" protection line. Crews from Rescue 15 went into service with 2 cutters, and the patient was extricated at 2357 hours. After the patient was transferred to EMS, and fluids and debris were controlled, Company 15 went available and was at station at 0104 hours.

January 27, 2007 - At 1035 hours, Ladder 15 was requested by Montgomery County to assist Station 67 (Gilbertsville) on a structure fire. Units responding were given a report of heavy smoke from the eaves of the building. Ladder 15 arrived on location just after Engine 67, at 1042 hours, with a working fire. Crews split up, with some personnel setting up ground ladders, while another crew forced entry into the second floor apartment and initiated an interior attack. Also, a crew went to the roof and performed vertical ventilation. The fire was brought under control in approximately an hour with extensive overhaul throughout all three floors of the building. After hours of salvage and overhaul, and cooling hot spots, Company 15 was placed availiable and at station at 1535 hours. Thanks to Stations 49 (Amity) and 1 (Mt. Penn) for standing-by at our station while we were at the call!

Click here to view a short video of the fire!

January 22, 2007 - At 0055 hours, Rescue 15 was dispatched with Station 19 for a motor vehicle accident reported with injuries and entrapment on Route 562 near Fancy Hill Road in Earl Township. Rescue 15 responded, arriving on location at 0103 hours, with one female confirmed to be entrapped, and crews were instructed to stabilize the vehicle and go into service with cutters. Engine 19 set up a landing zone in a cornfield next to the scene of the accident, while Company 15 performed a passenger's side door removal, and a full roof removal. The patient was extricated at 0122 hours and transferred to EMS. A crew then assisted in loading the patient into the awaiting Med-Evac helicopter. After the helicopter was airborne, Company 15 was placed available, and was at station at 0223 hours.

January 20, 2007 - At 1314 hours, Company 15 was requested to assist Montgomery County Station 67 (Gilbertsville) on a working structure fire at 1311 East Philadelphia Avenue. All four trucks responded, led off by Ladder 15, which arrived on location at 1321 hours. En route, crews were instructed to ladder the building and go into service with vertical ventilation. When Ladder 15 arrived on location, one crew began to set up ladders, while another crew was instructed by Assistant 67 to take a second attack line into the first floor and perform an interior attack. The fire was brought under control in about 30 minutes, with extensive overhaul. The cause of the fire was deemed accidental, and caused by an ignited animal nest inside of the dryer vents. After investigation and overhaul was complete, Company 15 was placed available and at station at 1623 hours.

January 19, 2007 - At 1121 hours, Ladder 15 was requested to assist Montgomery County Station 65 (Pennsburg) on a working structure fire. Ladder 15 responded and arrived on location at 1137 hours, with instructions for its crew to standby and help with overhaul. The crew stood-by in the manpower pool, and was released shortly after, and told to stand-by at Station 65 with Bucks County Engine 57 (Milford) and cover any other emergency calls. Ladder 15 then redirected to Station 65 at 1150 hours, and stood-by for a little over an hour. The Company was at station at 1320 hours.

January 19, 2007 - At 0640 hours, Company 15 was dispatched to assist Mongomery County Station 79 (Upper Pottsgrove) with a vehicle rescue on Route 100 near Moyer Road. Engine and Rescue 15 responded, arriving on location at 0655 hours. Rescue 69 (Pottstown) already had extricated the patient from the overturned vehicle, and so crews from Company 15 assisted with controlling a rupture in the gas line on the vehicle. When the tow company secured the vehicle, Company 15 went available, but was redirected to another motor vehicle accident with injuries at Farmington Avenue and Colebrookdale Road at 0738 hours. Crews split up at the scene, with one initiating patient care until the EMS unit arrived, and others controlling fluids and debris. At 0745 hours, another accident was reported just down the street at Colebrookdale Road and Woodside Lane. This motor vehicle accident was minor, and had negative injuries, so fire police closed the roads down until the tow company arrived and secured all vehicles involved in the two accidents. Companies were cleared, and at station at 0939 hours.

January 13, 2007 - At 0159 hours, Companies 15 and 16 (Keystone) were dispatched to Ironstone Drive, between Water Street and Pheasant Run Road, for an unknown-injury motor vehicle accident. 15-10 (Neubauer) arrived on location at 0159 hours and reported on vehicle on its roof with a pole that was sheared completely in half and hanging from the power lines above. Also, the vehicle was unoccupied, and PD was given a report of the occupants fleeing the scene of the accident on foot. Rescue 15 arrived on location shortly after, and crews, under extreme caution, stabilized the vehicle using rescue struts, then stood-by until Met-Ed arrived on location. After the tow company secured the vehicle, and Met-Ed arrived, all units were placed available, with the exception of fire police. All units were at station at 0342 hours.

January 12, 2007 - At 2232 hours, Companies 15 and 16 (Keystone) were dispatched to a commercial building at 329 East Second Street for an odor of natural gas, after the odor was detected by a firefighter that lives in the area. Engine, Ladder, and Rescue 15 responded, with the first unit arriving on location at 2235 hours. Crews split up and searched the large building, and found the odor to be the worst in a warehouse at the "C" side of the building. Upon further investigation, a malfunctioning wall-mounted heater was found to be leaking natural gas. Companies opened up the structure to ventilate until UGI arrived on the scene. When the problem was secured, all units were made available, and Company 15 was at station at 2348 hours.

December 29, 2006 - On Friday, December 29, 2006 the Friendship Hook & Ladder Fire Company apparatus held its annual Holiday Party. The event was attended by well over 100 firefighters, family and friends. The event included a hot buffet, an awards ceremony, the playing of the year-in-review video and presentation of gifts to all those that attended. This year, two special awards were given out. Rick and Becky Rothenberger were presented with a plaque thanking them for over 20 years of service during the annual Halloween Parade. The Rothenbergers and their family sell food and refreshments to help raise money for the apparatus crew. This year marked their 20th year running the food stand. The other award was presented to Chief Chuck Neubauer in recognition of completing his 20th year as fire chief of the Friendship Hook & Ladder Fire Company. A solid bronze, hand-carved fire helmet award was presented to thank Chuck for his 20 years of outstanding service and dedication as Fire Chief. Thanks to all those that attended the great event and we look forward to seeing you again next year.

December 29, 2006 - Today marked a sad day for the Boyertown Fire Department. Former fire chief of Company 16 (Keystone Steam Fire Engine Company) made his final trip in Engine 16-1 today. Paul "Squirrley" Bartman passed away earlier in the week and was laid to rest at St. Paul's Cemetary in Amityville on Friday, December 28, 2006. Firefighters from Company 15 attended both the viewing and funeral and participated in the funeral processing from Station 16 to the cemetary. Ladder 15 along with Ladder 27 (Fairmount of Norristown) created a ladder arch for the processing to pass under near the entrance to the cemetary. Squirrley was an active member of the Keystone Fire Company for the past 55 years including over 20 years as chief of the company. Rest in Peace Squirrley, you will be greatly missed. Thanks to all the Companies that were on stand-by for Boyertown during the services.

December 28, 2006 - At 0909 hours, Company 15 was dispatched to Rt. 73 and Little Getting Rd. in Earl Twp. to assist Company 19 (Earl Twp.) on a Motor Vehicle Accident with injuries. Rescue 15 responded and arrived on location at 0919 hours and assisted with patient car, fluid control and the powering down of the vehicles involved. Company 15 was released and at station at 1013 hours.

December 27, 2006 - At 1512 hours Company 15 was requested to respond to 109 Hanover Dr. in Upper Pottsgrove Twp., Montgomery County to assist Montco. Station 79 (Upper Pottsgrove) on an unknown type fire. Units from Station 79 arrived on location and found a fully-involved trailer with exposure to the surrounding brush. Company 15 was asked to lead with Utility 15 due to tight access to the scene. Utility, Engine and Rescue 15 all responded and assisted with extinguishment and overhaul of the trailer. Company 15 was released and was at station at 1846 hours.

December 11, 2006 - At 1502 hours, Companies 15 and 16 (Keystone) were dispatched to the intersection of Fifth and Franklin Streets in the Borough for an unknown-injury motor vehicle accident. Rescue 15 responded, while Ladder 15 was responding from an electrical fire on Hilltop Road, with both apparatus arriving on location at 1506 hours. Crews powered down both vehicles and controlled fluids and debris. EMS went available due to negative injuries. After the tow companies secured the vehicles, the companies were available, and Company 15 was at station at 1545 hours.

December 9, 2006 - Engine and Utility 15 reported to Station 3 (Stonersville) to stand-by due to a large woods fire on Neversink Mountain. Crews stayed at the station and did not run any calls while standing-by. Once Company 3 returned to station, crews assisted them with placing their equipment back in service, and the company went available and was at station at 1737 hours.

December 9, 2006 - At 1311 hours, Engine 15 was requested by 3-12 (Rhoads) to stand-by at Station 3 (Stonersville) due to a large woods fire on Neversink Mountain. As Engine and Utility 15 were en route to Stonersville, Companies 15 and 16 (Keystone) were dispatched at 1322 hours to a reported brush fire on North Sunrise Lane. Units arrived on location at 1328 hours to an area of brush approximately 30' by 15' that was burning. A crew from Engine 15 knocked down the bulk of the fire with a 300' 1 3/4" line, while a 1" booster line was pulled from Brush 16 to assist. When the fire was deemed under control, the call was turned over to Company 16, and Company 15 went available at 1358 hours and headed to Stonersville.

December 9, 2006 - This morning, Ladder 15 went on a special detail. We escorted Santa Claus from the Douglass Township building on Douglass Drive to the Pine Forge Elementary School on Pine Forge Road. Ladder 15 and Santa arrived to a large group of children eager to meet him. After spending some time at the school, Ladder 15 returned to station.

December 6, 2006 - At 2107 hours, Companies 15 and 16 (Keystone) were dispatched to the 2100 block of Farmington Avenue for a motor vehicle accident with injuries. Rescue, Engine, and Utility 15 went responding, and arrived on location at 2109 hours to a single-vehicle accident into a building with one head injury. Crews split up duties, whic included assisting EMS, stabilizing and powering down the vehicle, and also entering the building to check on structural stability. After determining that the vehicle did not damage any main structural members, and assisting the tow company with securing the vehicle, the Company went available and was at station at 2251 hours.

December 4, 2006 - At 1303 hours, Ladder 15 was requested to assist Company 20 (Bechtelsville) on a possible structure fire at 169 Chestnut Street. Additional was given that there was a sofa on fire in the residence. Units arriving on location reported smoke showing and a working fire throughout the first floor of the residence. Ladder 15 arrived on location at 1313 hours, with crews instructed to ground ladder the second floor and assist with ventilation. One crew from the Ladder began to set up ground ladders, while another crew entered the rear of the structure given a report of a dog still in the residence. The dog escaped, so that crew entered the second floor and assisted with searching the second floor. The fire was brought under control within 20 minutes, and crews remained on location for approximately an additional hour for overhaul, and to assist the State Police Fire Marshal with investigation of the cause of the fire. Company 15 was released by Company 20, and was at station at 1503 hours.

November 24, 2006 - Today, the Friendship Hook & Ladder Fire Company received notice from FEMA that we were awarded our very first FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant. the items we applied for and will be receiving are a complete set of Globe G-Xtreme turnout gear, a Scott AV-3000 facepiece with voice amplifier and a LED Survivor light for every single firefighter. We would like to thank FEMA and everyone that helped us in receiving this grant. We look forward to receiving our equipment.

November 10, 2006 - Today, a crew hosted a special education class from Boyertown Senior High School for a fire prevention presentation. Approximately 20 students came to the station, and were taught different things about firefighting and fire safety. Junior Firefighter Ethan Miller had the opportunity to dress up and model his fire gear for his classmates. In addition, the crew doing the presentation showed the students how we climb the Ladder Truck, use radios, and squirt water from the hose. The students then individually had the opportunity to use the fire hose. Today was a fun and unique experience that we'd all love to do again! Thanks to the students for coming out to see us and what we do!

November 8 , 2006 - At 1354 hours, Companies 15 and 16 (Keystone) were dispatched to Junior High West to assist EMS by establishing a landing zone for Med-Evac. Engine 15 arrived on location at 1400 hours, and set up a landing zone on an athletic field to the rear of the school. Medic 527 was on location with a male who sustained a head injury from playing football. Crews assisted EMS personnel and the flight medics loading the patient into the helicopter, and after breaking down the landing zone, the Company was available and at station at 1437 hours.

November 6 , 2006 - At 1803 hours, Companies 15 and 16 (Keystone) were dispatched to the intersection of Fourth and Monroe Streets in the Borough for an unknown-injury vehicle accident. Due to Rescue 15 being temporarily out of service, Utility and Engine 15 responded with full crews, and arrived on location at 1806 hours to a minor non-injury MVA. Crews controlled an antifreeze leak and cleaned up some debris on the roadway. Companies were made available, and Company 15 was at station at 1830 hours.

November 4, 2006 - Tonight was a night full of fun for members of the Hooks and their families! The night started off at 1700 hours at the YMCA with an hour and a half of swimming in the pool. Since we pump the pool for the YMCA, they decided to give us the pool for free for us to swim! Then, at 1830 hours, the entire crew was picked up at the YMCA and taken for a hayride all around Boyertown. The ride ended at the station around 1900 hours, where we set up a projector and screen inside the station and watched two movies and ate lots of food! Thanks to all of our members who came out and made the night one to remember! Special thanks to the YMCA for allowing us to use your facilities, and to Wilcox Farms for providing the hayride!

October 30, 2006 - At 0522 hours, Company 15 was dispatched to assist Montgomery County Station 65 (Pennsburg) for another working structure fire. This time, it was at an assisted living facility for mentally handicapped persons. Luckily, all residents were able to escape the building safely. Company 15 arrived on location at 0546 hours, and assisted Companies on-scene after RIT duties were relieved. Crews assisted with extinguishment, roof ventilation, and overhaul. Company 15 went available and was at station at 0844 hours.

October 21, 2006 - At 1545 hours, Company 15 was requested for RIT to assist Montgomery County Station 65 (Pennsburg) on a working dwelling fire. The Company responded with all four trucks, with the Ladder arriving on location at 1559 hours. Upon arrival, Chief 65 requested a second RIT, because Company 15 was to go into service and assist in operations. The crew from Ladder 15 was directed to enter the attached exposure and check for extension. Crews entered the third floor of the exposure side, and encountered zero-visibility and a working fire extending into the adjacent room. Crews extinguished the fire and assisted with ventilation. Additional crews assisted elsewhere in the structure with extensive overhaul. The Company remained on-scene for approximately and hour and a half, and the Company was at station at 1827 hours.

October 14, 2006 - At 0413 hours, Ladder 15 was requested to assist Stations 22 (Barto) and 14 (Bally) on a reported barn fire at Route 100 and Niantic Road. As units went responding, it was advised that it was a working barn fire, and it was in Montgomery County. Upon this report, Montgomery County units were dispatched, as well as additional units for water supply and manpower. Ladder 15 put the main in service, and the Company remained on-scene for several hours to assist with extinguishment and overhaul. Company 15 went available and was at station at 1235 hours.

October 12, 2006 - At 1414 hours, Rescue 15 was special requested by Montgomery County to assist Station 67 (Gilbertsville) on a vehicle rescue on Route 73 in front of Bermont Motors. Rescue and Engine 15 went responding and arrived on location at 1422 hours to a two-vehicle MVA with one roll-over. Crews assisted in fluid control and debris clean-up, as the patient was already extricated by Station 67. After duties were performed, Company 15 went available and at station at 1508 hours.

October 9-14, 2006 - This week was National Fire Prevention Week. Throughout the week, we have visited various places, including Boyertown Elementary, and also hosted several preschools and scout troops from the area to teach them about fire prevention and safety. Thanks to everybody who came out to learn all about fire prevention from us, we are always happy to educate the public about what we do!

October 7, 2006 - Today was the Third Annual Boyertown Fire Department Custom Car, Truck, and Motorcycle Show, held at the Boyertown Park. Despite a chilly, cloudy, and breezy day, the show was once again a success. The turnout was about the same as last year, with some new events that took place this year. Included in this year's show was a vehicle rescue demonstration, a PennStar helicopter, and a classic rock cover band named The Hackers. Overall, the day was very fun and eventful, andeveryone got to see some very neat vehicles of all ages, styles, colors. Thanks to everyone who came out to help at this year's show and to this year's sponsors, and we hope everybody had an enjoyable time! Look forward to the Fourth Annual Show to be held sometime early in October, 2007!

Click here to see more pictures of the Third Annual Boyertown Fire Department Custom Car, Truck, and Motorcycle Show!

October 1, 2006 - At 1601 hours, Ladder 15 was requested to assist Station 17 (Liberty) and Engine 16-2 (Keystone) on a reported dryer fire inside a residence on Powder Mill Hollow Road. Ladder 15 and Engine 15 went responding with full crews, and while enroute, received a report of the fire extending to the walls and ceiling around the dryer. Ladder 15 arrived on location at 1610 hours with light-medium smoke showing from the residence. A crew from the Ladder entered the structure and encountered a heavy smoke condition, and also confirmed a working fire in and around the dryer. Using 2 pressurized water extinguishers, the fire was knocked down and arriving crews assisted in setting up negative pressure ventilation. The dryer was removed from the residence, and crews from the three companies worked together in opening walls and checking for extension. When the fire was deemed out, crews secured the residence, and companies went available. Company 15 was at station at 1759.

Thanks to Liberty Fire Police Lieutenant Randy Minninger (17-20) for sharing pictures with us!

September 28, 2006 - Rescue 15 was requested at 0951 hours to assist Montgomery Stations 37 (New Hanover) and 68 (Sassamansville) at a vehicle rescue on Route 73 in New Hanover Township. Rescue 15 responded with a crew of 8 and arrived at 1003 hours. Before arrival it was determined to be a fatal accident and a recovery operation. Personnel assisted with setting up large crib boxes and lifted the truck with air bags to access the driver. The “A” and “B” posts were cut and the driver was removed. The company was available and at station at 1113 hours.

August 30-31, 2006 - Company 15 was requested to stand-by for Montgomery County Station 67 (Gilbertsville), due to the passing of their Fire Police Lieutenant, Philip "Bucky" Buckwalter. During the funeral services, Engine and Utility 15 relocated to Station 67, while Ladder 15 and Montgomery County Ladder 65 (Pennsburg) created a ladder arch while Bucky took his last ride on Engine 67 through their station and under the arch. We send our condolences to our fellow firefighters at Gilbertsville and to the Buckwalter family. We are always willing to help you out!

August 17, 2006 - At 1213 hours, Companies 17 (Liberty), 15, and 16 (Keystone) were dispatched to a possible structure fire at 1001 Montgomery Avenue, Colebrookdale Township. 17-10 (Wary) arrived on location to a working fire in a large garage with exposure problems to a larger adjacent garage, and a fuel tank. Engine 15 went responding and arrived on location at 1216 hours, followed by Engine 17-2 and Engine 16-2, and crews from the three companies advanced two 1 3/4" lines and one 2 1/2" line to, at the same time, attack the fire and protect the exposures. The fire was brought under control in about an hour, with additional alarms struck for manpower for the overhaul to follow. During the overhaul process, it was found that an electrical malfunction sparked the fire, and losses included a mint-condition antique truck and over $20,000 worth of cherry wood. When the fire was deemed out and overhaul was complete, the compan