Stormy weather

6/6/10 - The Waterford area has been hit with several strong storms over the past week. Several tornado warnings and watches have been issued for our area, and an F0 tornado was confirmed in neighboring Crawford County. Just a reminder to Waterford residents that a single, 3 minute blast from the station siren is a signal to take shelter immediately. Strong storms can produce damaging winds without cyclonic activity, and anyone driving during or after these storms should use extra caution to avoid downed trees and power lines. Heavy rains from these storms can also cause flash flooding of roads. A flooded road should never be crossed, in vehicle or on foot. For more severe weather safety tips, click here

Quick Save on Mobile Home

5/4/10 - The first alarm was struck just before 6:00 Tuesday evening for a mobile home fire in the 13000 block of Route 19. Engine 143 quickly responded and was able to knock down the fire within minutes of arriving on scene. Fire and water damage was limited to the kitchen/living room area, but smoke and heat damage was evident in most of the trailer. One child was initally unaccounted for, but was located at a friend's house. Two dogs were not able to be saved and perished in the fire. Units responding: Engine 143, Rescue 148 from Waterford, Engine 123, Tanker 126 from Mill Village, Engine 1132, Tanker 1136, Squad 1138 from Union City, and Engine 382 (RIT) from Edinboro.

Three cut from wreckage

4/26/10 - Monday night at 11:30 Waterford (Sta. 14) was dispatched for a two vehicle accident with entrapment at the South “Y” of Rte 19 and Rte 97. Mill Village (Sta. 12) was dispatched to assist with a rescue and squad. Upon arrival it was reported two vehicles, heavy damage, head on, three patients entrapped. Erie County Dispatch was notified and STAT MedEvac 17 was put on standby and quickly upgraded to a scene response. Squad 147 arrived on scene and started patient care the best that they could as Rescue 148 and Utility Rescue 124 set up for extrication. Union City (Sta. 113) was called for a third tool and squad, and a second helicopter was requested to the landing zone. A crew from 148 used the Holmatro rescue tool, (a combination spreader/cutter is carried on Rescue 148) to remove the driver’s door from the tan sedan on the North side of the incident. The patient was freed from the wreckage and transported to the hospital by Mill Village 127. At the same time, Mill Village used their tool, a Hurst, to gain access to the passenger of the second car. Once freed that patient was transferred to the landing zone to STAT 17 and was transported by air to the Hamot Shock Trauma Center. The roof and remaining doors were removed by Waterford, Mill Village, and Union City rescuers using three rescue tools and several hand tools, in addition to rolling the dashboard of the car in efforts to free the third patient. The floor of the car had to be spread apart before the patient could be totally freed. The flight crew of STAT 7, (which had landed and been transported to the scene) took over care and were transported back to the helicopter. The third patient was extricated and transported by air after being trapped for 95 minutes. Crews remained on scene for a short time cleaning up and waiting for the traffic investigator. All companies were in service in quarters at 2:34am. Units responding: Squad 147, Rescue 148, Engine 142 from Waterford, Squad 127, Utility 124 from Mill Village, Squad 1148, Rescue 1147 from Union City, and Fire Police 399 from Edinboro, STAT 17, STAT 7 from STAT MedEvac.
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Fatal Accident

4/25/10 - At 10:58 Erie County 911 received a report of a car hitting a house in the 1400 Block of Old State Road. Edinboro (Sta. 38) was dispatched for Rescue 384 with Waterford as more information was gathered that the occupants might have been entrapped in the vehicle. Captain 153 (Fox) and an EMT were first on scene and confirmed the entrapment with two patients, and Edinboro was dispatched for a squad to assist as well. 153 requested immediate scene response from STAT MedEvac, but the request was denied do to weather conditions. The most critical patient was extricated first and transported by Squad 147 with Central County Medic 2 aboard. Patient one would not survive the injuries sustained in the crash. The second patient was extricated and transported by Edinboro Squad 387 with Emergycare Medic 190. The impact from the crash broke a large hole in the field stone foundation of the old farmhouse. The crash also knocked bricks off the chimney, displaced furniture inside the house, and knocked pictures off the walls on the complete opposite side of the structure. The only occupant of the house at the time was not injured in the accident. Squad 147,Rescue 148, Engine 143, and manpower responded from Waterford with Rescue 384, Squad 387 and manpower from Edinboro. Gathering Photos

Tanker gets new engine

4/21/10 - Tanker 145 is in the process of having a new Catapiliar diesel engine installed. The upgrade is needed after discovering a crack in the engine block of the original engine. The estimated cost of the replacement is $20,000. The unwelcome surprise and expense is a reminder to our commuinty of the cost of keeping a fire department running.

Elusive Union City Fire

4/21/10 - Just before 8pm Wednesday, Union City (Sta. 113), Waterford (Sta. 14), Corry (Sta. 10), and Mill Village (Sta. 12) were dispatched for a structure fire in the Union City Borough. The 911 call came in third party and an incorrect address was given by the caller. After arriving on scene of the initial address with nothing visible, Union City Engine 1132 was notified of the correct address and mutual aid companies were redispatched. Upon arrival at the second address, 1132 reported a single story wood frame residential structure with smoke showing. Crews made quick entry to the attic while Waterford's Engine 143 crew hit a hydrant and stood by while the interior crew extinguished the small fire. The second in crew reported one firefighter putting his leg through a hole in the first floor, which was not on fire. No injuries resulted. 143 crew pulled part of the ceiling down where the fire had been contained and checked for hot spots. All units were in service a short time later. Despite chasing the fire around town, Union City firefighters saved the house. Union City E-1132, T-1136, L-1139, S-1138, Mill Village E-123, Corry R-108(RIT), Waterford E-143, R-148, and Corry Ambulance 201 responded.

Burning the midnight oil

3/8/10 - At 11:00 pm Sunday night, Waterford was dispatched to a tanker rollover at the South “Y” (Rt 97/19), with wires down. Squad 147 was first on scene and reported one tanker on its side with wires down across the road. Rescue 148 was on scene seconds later and set up traffic control and scene safety. A handline was pulled from 148 as a precaution and Tanker 145 responded as a precaution as well. Upon investigation it was determined that the tanker was carrying liquid asphalt and did not appear to be leaking. The driver of the truck was transported to a local hospital for evaluation. With High Street (Rt 97/19) being the only way through Waterford, traffic control was a logistical puzzle. Officers from Waterford worked in conjunction with the State Police and Penn DOT to come up with the best traffic detours possible, and as the incident went on through the night, the Erie County fire police all-page was activated. This would muster fire police from Perry Hiway, Kuhl Hose, Wattsburg, Corry, Union City, Mill Village, Elgin/Beaverdam, Kearsarge, Edinboro, and West Ridge to aid in traffic control. With 8 main intersections to be covered to complete the detours, “the more the merrier” was the motto. Penelec and Verizon worked through the night and into the early afternoon to restring power and phone lines as well as install a new pole. After the utilities were secured a second tanker from Toledo, OH arrived on scene and was able to pump off the wrecked tanker before being up righted. The road was reopened shortly before 1:00pm on Monday.
During the incident, one driver was cited for DUI, and another cited for several driving infractions after both drove around road blocks and into the accident scene before stopping. Squad 147 ran an EMS call to the Troyer Farms plant. Rescue 148 had to leave the scene during the early morning to refuel. A big thanks goes out to the several members of the Lady’s Auxiliary for bringing down hot food during the night and lunch during the day.
Photos

Another Busy Day

Volunteers with Waterford spend a lot of time helping others, but we have to help ourselves once and awhile. Early this morning Waterford was dispatched to #24’s vehicle on fire on Wilson Ave. The vehicle suffered heavy fire and water damage. Photo

Later in the day, Waterford was dispatched for the FAST Team to assist Edinboro (Sta 38) on a possible residential structure fire on Walnut Street. Upon 390’s arrival the electrical fire was mostly extinguished and the Fighting 38 held with their own engine and ladder. Rescue 148 had responded, but returned in service before arrival.

A third call came in just before 7:00pm for an engine to assist Kuhl Hose (Sta 68) on a residential structure fire. The caller reported the house filling with smoke. Upon arrival, a Kuhl Hose officer reported careless flue position to be the cause of the smoke conditions. Kuhl Hose held with Engine 143 from Waterford and equipment already enroute from their station. Ventilation was completed and units were in service a short time later.

On The Road Again

2/27/10 - Waterford was dispatched for the FAST Team to assist Edinboro (Sta. 38) on a reported residential structure fire on Monroe Street at 8:36 this morning. Rescue 148 responded with a crew of 7. Upon his arrival, Deputy Chief 390 reported a one story wood frame residential building with smoke showing. 390 updated with a working fire on the first floor as Edinboro's Engine 382 responded. Crews were sent to the basement and first floor to battle the flames, but were pulled from the structure when crews on the first floor started falling through to the basement. The evacuation order was given as Rescue 148 was arriving on scene, but RIT was not needed as all companies were able to clear the structure. An additional alarm was struck for Franklin Township (Sta. 72) and McKean (Sta. 40) for an engine each to the fire grounds, and Mill Village (Sta. 12) for an engine to standby at Station 38. The fire was called under control at 9:43 and extensive overhaul continued until shortly after 11:00. Units responding: Waterford - R 148: Edinboro - E 382, E 384, L 389, U 397, S 388, S 387: McKean - E 405, E 403, S 407: Cranesville - E 603: Franklin Township - E 722: Mill Village - E 123.
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After returning from Edinboro, Waterford (Sta 14) and Corry (Sta 10) were dispatched to assist Union City for a reported commercial structure fire in the carwash off Main St. Engine 143 responded with a full crew, but was put in service before the wheels hit High St. A passerby had reported black smoke coming from the carwash, which upon investigation was found to be coming from a car doing a burnout.

Shortly after 5:30pm, Waterford received another dispatch, this time for an EMS call in the Rainbow Valley trailer court. Squad 147 responded with a call for manpower to assist at the scene. As the patient was being packaged for transport, Waterford and a Union City (Sta 113) squad to assist were dispatched for a motor vehicle accident at the intersection of Rt. 97 and Hare Road.

Rescue 148, Chief 140, 1402, and Union City 1138 responded to the MVA. Upon arrival 140 reported one vehicle off the road with minor damage, one Class 3 injury. With traffic on Oak Hill stopped by 1402 and Union City fire police, crews worked to package and transport the patient off the icy road. Photos

As the night continued on, it seemed like every department was making runs, and Waterford’s number would come up again. Waterford was dispatched with Perry Hiway (Sta 42), Kearsarge (Sta 44), West Lake (Sta 48), West Ridge (Sta 46), and McKean (Sta 40) for a residential structure fire in the 7600 block of Edinboro Rd. Engine 143 responded with a full crew and was returned to standby Station 43 as they hit the intersection of Pagen and Edinboro roads.
Although a high call volume day for Waterford, volunteers spent most of the day standing by leaving them ready to fight another day.

Annual Awards Banquet

2/20/10 - Waterford celebrated another year of community service during the annual awards banquet. Members and special guests were treated to a dinner, award presentations, history lesson by Harry, and a video recap of the year’s calls and events. Awards were given to the top responders, company and line officers, and goofy awards given to members for “outstanding” moments in service.

RIT assist to Edinboro

2/8/10 - Waterford was dispatched for the FAST Team to assist Edinboro for a possible structure fire in the 100 block of Hillcrest Drive. Engine 143 responded and staged as part of the RIT assignment. The smoke in the residence was investigated and traced to the wood burning stove and chimney. No fire was present and the residence was ventilated. All companies were put in service a short time later. Edinboro (382, 389, 384 399), McKean (405), Cranesville (602), Waterford (143), and CECPA Medic 2 responded.

Union City garage fire

2/5/10 - 911 received several reports of a garage on fire on Route 8 (cross street Hanlin Rd) outside of Union City. Waterford was dispatched for an engine and tanker to assist and Chief 140, Engine 143, and Tanker 145 responded. Callers and the first units on scene reported several explosions coming from the garage. The fire was called under control shortly after the first due's arrival, but the garage was a total loss. Union City (Sta. 113), Corry [RIT] (Sta. 10), Waterford (Sta. 14), Elgin/Beaverdam (Sta. 74), and Wattsburg (Sta. 17) responded.

Rescue 148 Gets Workout

1/31/10 - Waterford was dispatched for the FAST Team to assist Edinboro for a structure fire in the 11000 block of Silverthorn Rd at 6:51 PM. WCPA Medic 2 was first on scene and reported a fully involved structure. Before Engine 384 could arrive, Medic 2 reported a roof collapse. Companies from Edinboro (Chief 381, Engine 384, Tower 389, Utility 397, Tanker 399, Squad 388, Fire Police 399), Cranesville (Engine 603, Engine 602), McKean (Engine 403, Engine/Tanker 405, Squad 407), Franklin Township (Engine 722, Tanker 725), and Waterford (Rescue 148, Tanker 145) worked aggressively to contain the fire to the collapsed structure. Mill Village was called for Engine 123 and Tanker 126 to transfer to Edinboro, as well as West Ridge for Engine 482 to McKean, and Springfield Engine 643 to Cranesville. The fire was called under control at 7:48.

Just before 11:30 Waterford was dispatched and Stat Medevac 17 put on standby for a vehicle roll over with entrapment in the 3600 block of Welsh Rd. Chief 140 (Barber) was first on scene and reported one pickup truck on its side in the middle of the road, driver self extricated. Squad 147 and Rescue 148 responded. While en route to the scene, Asst. Chief 151 (Welsh) discovered a structure fire in the 11000 block of Donation Rd. Rescue 148 was diverted to the fire and the preplan was dispatched. Waterford (Chief 140, Chief 151, Rescue 148, Tanker 145, Engine 143, Squad 147), Kuhl Hose (Engine 683, Tanker 685 & 686, and Squad 687), Perry Hiway (Engine 423), Mill Village (Engine 123, Tanker 126), and McKean (Rescue 408[RIT]) responded. Exterior operations were performed, as the garage was fully involved upon discovery by 151. Water supply was established by Kuhl Hose and the fire was called under control at 12:25 AM. All units were released and the last unit in quarters at 2:07.

The new rescue was used for three incidents of three different types, and met the needs of the Company as intended. A large price tag is really a small price to pay for quality, dependable equipment to protect the residents of Waterford and the surrounding areas. What can't have a price tag attached is the dedication of the members of each volunteer fire department that spend their time helping friends, neighbors, and strangers in need; regardless of the time of day, the temperature outside, or the number of runs already made.

FAST Team Responds to Venango

1/29/10 - At 3:33 in the afternoon, Waterford was dispatched for the FAST Team to standby at Edinboro (Sta. 38) as an assist to Crawford County's Venango Station 25. Rescue 148 responded and was called to the firegrounds on Plank Rd in Crawford County a short time after arriving at Station 38. 148 remained on scene until just after 7:30. The structure fire called for Erie County units from Mill Village (Sta. 12), Edinboro (Sta. 38), and Waterford (Sta. 14). Cranesville (Sta. 60) and McKean (Sta. 40) were also called for transfer assignments to Edinboro (Sta. 38). The two story baloon frame construction house was reported as a total loss. 148 was in service in the district at 8:20.

Busy Squad Morning:

1/22/10 - Mild daytime temperatures combined with below freezing night temperatures made roads and sidewalks slippery Friday morning. Waterford was dispatched to the Fort LeBoeuf Middle School for a fall victim with an altered level of consciousness shortly before 8:00. Just after returning from the first run, Waterford was dispatched for a squad to assist Perry Hiway (Sta. 42) at a motor vehicle collision. 147 responded, but was put in service before arrival on scene. A third call for service came in just after 11:00 for a possible stroke on the Western edge of the response district.

Alarm of Fire:

1/4/10 - Shortly before 9pm Waterford (Sta. 14) and Union City (Sta. 113) were dispatched for an automatic fire alarm at the Troyer's potato chip plant. A water flow alarm was activated as a result of a sprinkler head being broken in the warehouse. Engine 143, Tanker 145, and Ladder 1139 responded. 143 confirmed the broken head and all units were put in service.

Snowy Start:

1/4/10 - A snow storm bringing several feet of fresh snow to the area helped Erie County residents celebrate the new year. Waterford (Sta. 14) pagers stayed relatively quiet through the bulk of the storm, only being tapped for two EMS calls, a motor vehicle collision, and a station standby. Sunday firefighters put chains on Tanker 145 and waited with the Presque Isle Snowmobile Club first responders, but luckily weren't called for service. Early Monday morning Squad 147 encountered a common situation in the winter months: a driveway plugged with snow. A plow was called and cleared the driveway while EMTs tended to the patient. Waterford Borough and Township residents are reminded to keep their driveways, walkways, and doorways clear of snow. It makes getting help to you faster and easier. Also remember to keep extra blankets or clothes in your cars durning the winter months in the event you find yourself stranded for an extended length of time.

Monday morning smoke:

12/21/09 - Shortly before 8:00am Waterford (Sta. 14), Perry Hiway (Sta. 42), Kuhl Hose (Sta. 68), Mckean (Sta. 40), and Edinboro (Sta. 38) were dispatched for a reported structure fire in the 11000 block of Sharp Road. The caller reported to the 911 operator that the kitchen was filling with smoke. Chief 150 was first on scene and reported a two story wood frame residential structure with nothing visible. Engine 143, Tanker 145, Edinboro, and McKean responded with their assignments. Upon investigation 150 continued what Waterford and McKean had on the road while putting the remainder of the alarm in service. Waterford held the remainder of the equipment at the station, and McKean was put in service shortly after arrival on scene. The source of the smoke was determined to be coming from an appliance. Waterford was in service and clear of the scene without further incident.

December Meeting and Elections, MVA:

12/2/09 - The members of the Stancliff Hose Company held line and executive officer elections during their monthly meeting Wednesday evening. Hot topics included equipment purchasing and placement for the new Rescue 148, as well as some membership issues tabled from the last meeting. The elections were postponed part way through the process when Waterford was dispatched for a vehicle accident on Bagdad Rd. Results so far from the elections are: Chief 140 - Chris Barber, Asst. 150 - Ed Flook, Asst. 151 - Chuck Welsh, Capt. 152 - Bryan Turnbull, Capt. 153 - Shawn Fox, 14L1 - Kyle Reinwald, 14L2 - Ryne Rutkowski, 14L3 - Jake williams. (13 active voters) Fire police officers and the Executive board will be elected during next month's meeting. The SHC Relief meeting and elections were also postponed until next month.

Waterford (Sta 14) was dispatched for a single vehicle into a tree with entrapment durning the monthly meeting on Wednesday. Squad 147, Engine 143 carrying the Holmatro rescue tool, and Chiefs 140 and 151 responded on the initial dispatch. McKean (Sta 40) was also dispatched for a rescue to assist due to Waterford’s Rescue 148 being out of service. Upon arrival units found one pickup into a tree on the side of an embankment. Negative entrapment was reported upon 143’s arrival. Due to patient status, Lifestar was requested to be put on standby, but was unavailable due to weather. Patient extrication was made difficult by the position of the vehicle on the bank. 143 used rope rigging to temporarily secure the vehicle while the new 148 was called on to respond with chains and winch. Upon 148's arrival chains replaced the rope and the patient was extricated. 147 transported to the hospital while fire police and 148 remained on scene with State Police. All units were in service in quarters by 23:00. This was the first run for the new Rescue 148, and is expected to be officially put in service this weekend. Photos

New Rescue 148 Training:

11/14/09 - SHC has taken delivery of the new Rescue 148 and trained on pumping, drafting, and driving of the new truck today. Members spent the morning learning about the new all electronic controlled pump as well as the important safety aspects of driving the new rig. The afternoon was spent testing the skills and knowledge of the rig at the high school and around town. The final test of the day was sending off the Fort LeBoeuf Middle School football team on their way to the first playoff game. If you missed it, all the lights and sirens are operational on the truck. To keep the class time down and objectives rolling, only half the members were trained today. These members will then train the others at a later date. Photos

Erie County Dispatch takes over:

Erie County has taken over emergency dispatch for Waterford, Mill Village, Union City, Wattsburg, Kuhl Hose, Perry Hiway, Greenfield Twp., and Lake City fire departments as of October 27, 2009. Dispatch will now be announcing the station number with the station name, but will otherwise sound the same, just a few new voices. The switchover from Emergycare to Erie County took place at 10:15, and is part of the county consolidation plan. Right now Erie County 911 receives, records, and dispatches 911 emergencies for City of Erie Police and Fire, Millcreek Fire and EMS, Corry City Police, Fire, and EMS, Edinboro Police, Union City Police, Lake City Police, Elgin/Beaver Dam Fire Department, and the eight former Emergycare departments first listed here. Erie County is the last county in Pennsylvania to move to a county wide dispatch system.

Open House:

10/10/09 - Guests at Saturday's open house got a sneak peak at the new Rescue 148, as well as a taste of what goes on inside the station on a normal basis. The Rescue was blessed and dedicated and will be put in service in about a month. Emergycare and the State Police were also on hand with information for the public.

Fire Prevention Week:

10/7/09 - On Wednesday several members from the Stancliff Hose Company visited Waterford Elementary School as part of Fire Prevention Week. Kids from the K – 5 classes were taught about stop-drop-roll, crawling low under smoke, and how to use 911. Students were also shown everything a firefighter wears and uses while on scene

The Hose Company will be opening its doors to several daycare providers and the Waterford YMCA throughout the month in addition to the scheduled open house. Open House is this Saturday (10/10) from 10am – 2pm. The new Rescue 148 will be dedicated and blessed at 11.

Assist to Perry Hiway:

10/4/09 - At just after midnight Perry Hiway was dispatched for a smoke investigation in the 8800 block of Rt 97, called in by a passerby. Waterford's 151, living just a short distance away went in route and quickly reported a single story garage with heavy smoke showing. Upon Perry Hiway 420's arrival, he started mutual aid from Kuhl Hose, Belle Valley, West Lake, and Waterford. Waterford responded with Rescue 148 with a crew of four, plus one probationary member. The fire was quickly knocked down and extensive overhaul completed. Photos

Waterford Hosts Structure Burn Session:

10/3/09 - Waterford played host to a Structure Burn session this weekend in an effort to fully utilize its acquired structure. The rain held off just long enough for the small group of students to get some valuable experience humping hose and throwing ladders. Firefighters from the local area as well as Monroeville, and even Canada participated. The group split the weekend between the classroom, the acquired structure, and the Franklin Center burn tower. Photos

Hit and run accident:

1/18/2009 - Waterford was dispatched for a motor vehicle accident at the intersection of Sharp Road and Route 19, Sunday evening. As units were responding they were notified that it was a hit and run incident involving three vehicles, including the vehicle that left the scene. Squad 147, Rescue 148, Chief 150, and manpower responded. If anyone has information regarding the incident, they are encouraged to contact the Lawrence Park State Police.
Photos

Waterford busy in frigid temperatures:

Single digit temperatures with subzero wind chills were only the tip of the iceberg for Waterford and other area firefighters over the weekend. At 13:05 Friday, (1/16/09) Waterford was dispatched for a structure fire near the intersection of Dublin and Cronin Roads. The 911 center received two calls on the fire, the first stating there was fire in a window and the second caller reporting heavy smoke and fire coming from the residence. When Waterford’s Chief 140 arrived on scene he reported a fully involved single story, residential structure. Waterford Engine 143 responded as the first due engine and Emergycare Operations second tapped Waterford for additional manpower while also dispatching McKean Hose for a FAST team; Kuhl Hose, Union City (Station 113), and Mill Village Fire Dept. to assist. Due to daytime manpower shortages, Wattsburg Hose, and Perry Hi-way Hose were also dispatched. The thick, white smoke header could be seen easily against the ice blue sky from downtown Waterford, despite the rural location of the fire. Tanker 145 from Waterford set up at the end of the driveway as the end point of water supply while tankers from Kuhl Hose and Union City shuttled water from a nearby pond being pumped by Mill Village. Battling not only the flames, but also frozen gloves and equipment, the wind fed fire quickly consumed the house. A portable monitor from 143 and multiple hand lines could not extinguish the fire. Foam was applied with little headway being made. After four hours on scene and the house a total loss, firefighters returned to the station to thaw out equipment and personnel. Responding units from Waterford included Chiefs 140, 150, Engines 143, 142, Tanker 145, and Squad (Ambulance) 147.

Later that evening, (21:14) Waterford was dispatched with an EMS call for hemorrhaging. Captain 153 and Lieutenant 14L3 responded to the scene while Squad 147 went in route from the station. Upon his arrival, 153 downgraded 147 to a priority two response (no lights or sirens). Squad 147 was put in service with a patient refusal as it arrived on scene.

Saturday (1/17/09) morning firefighters from Waterford met to perform equipment maintenance and make repairs needed to put Engine 142 back in service from malfunctions the previous day. Later in the day (14:33), Waterford was dispatched for a structure fire on McKinley Avenue. Upon Chief 150’s arrival he reported smoke showing from a mobile home. Engine 143 responded with a full crew and immediately took an 1 ¾” hand line to the C side of the structure where heavy smoke and flames were coming from under the home. Firefighters worked to remove thick rubber skirting to gain access from the D side to extinguish and push the flames to the C side where the homeowner had made an entrance hole. As access was gained and the fire under the home was beginning to be doused, fire began to blow out of a D/C window. The hand line was advanced to the D side doorway and attempts were made to put out the flames. Firefighters tried to advance into the structure, but were impeded by the restricted entryway, and were forced to pull back to the doorway as fire jumped to the center of the home and rounds of ammunition fired in the intense heat. Additional hand lines were pulled from Engine 143 as manpower from Mill Village, Union City, and Edinboro (FAST team) arrived on scene. Tanker 145, and a tanker from Mill Village supplied water to attack Engine 143. Equipment and hose were pulled from Engine 142. Again, firefighters endured frozen gear, opting to leave bunker coats hanging on a Union City Ambulance used for rehab, rather than letting the ice melt and soak the inner layer of the coat. A torpedo heater being used to thaw frozen pipes was found near the C side of the house, but the fire is still under investigation.

As crews were performing overhaul, Union City’s engine was recalled from standby at the Waterford station and dispatched to a fire alarm in their own town. A short time later as Waterford and Edinboro were clearing the McKinley Ave. scene, Union City was dispatched for a second fire alarm. Waterford returned to the station out of service, only to be dispatched for a fire alarm of their own. Chief 140 put everyone at the station on standby as he responded to the scene. Crews scrambled to get Engine 142 back in service (it required the least amount of work), and were told to respond to the fire alarm priority two, upon completion. 142 was no more than out the door when Union City called for manpower from Waterford to assist. Air cylinders were changed on packs and as a crew began to pile into Rescue 148, they were put on standby. Chief 140 then put Waterford in service with a false alarm. After a busy two days, hose was cleaned and drying, hose beds were repacked, airpacks were refilled, trucks were cleaned, and gear was hung to thaw and dry.

Then, at 18:47, as firefighters were beginning to relax, Waterford was dispatched for a rekindle at the scene of Friday’s fire. With nothing left to salvage, Chief 140 ordered only Engine 143 to respond, priority two. Crews were only on scene for a short time, and returned in service.

With such cold temperatures hitting the Erie area, the Stancliff Hose Company would like to remind everyone to use caution when heating with auxiliary equipment. Any type of space heater should never be left unattended. Users of this type of heating not only expose themselves to the risk of fire, but also the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning if used in unventilated spaces. If you feel lightheaded, dizzy, or sleepy, turn off the heater, get to a well ventilated area, and call 911.

-Firefighter Rutkowski (photos being collected)

Waterford changes numbering system:

On Wednesday, January 7th, Stancliff firefighters/EMT's began using the standardized county numbering system to identify their units when responding. With the dispatching of emergency departments slowly being switched to the new County 911 center, some order was needed. Part of the order includes the renumbering of trucks. Here is a list of changes for Waterford (old number - new number) Engine 141 - 142, Engine 145 - 143, Tanker 144 - 145, Rescue 143 - 148, Squad 146 - 147. You'll notice the station number, 14, remains the same, but the identifier number changes. The change is mainly to make tactical command easier. For instance, if command on the scene of an incident hears "Waterford 143 aproaching," they know to expect an engine, because the last number 3 indicates an engine. It also makes dispatching easier. If command calls for a rescue from Waterford to assist, the dispatch can quickly send the correct truck (148) without having to look up which number our rescue is. So, if you hear something on the scanner that doesn't sound quite right, now you know why.