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Department Address
301 Cedar St
Freeland, Pa 18224
(570) 636-0347
(570) 636-3455 (Fax)
 

Fearnots News



FEARNOTS VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY

301 Cedar Street, Freeland Pa 18224

The following photos are provided by the Fearnots Volunteer Fire Company relative to this incident:
HIGH RESOLUTION PHOTO #1 (Media)
HIGH RESOLUTION PHOTO #2 (Media)  

NEWS RELEASE

 

FIREFIGHTERS RESPOND TO STRUCTURE FIRE; HOUSE SAVED

 

         Firefighters from the Fearnots Volunteer Fire Company of Foster Township and other regional companies responded to a structure fire at 1243 Foster Avenue in Foster Township early Sunday morning. 

 

     The Luzerne County 911 Center received a call reporting a structure fire just before 1 am Sunday morning.  Firefighters found fire shooting though the roof when they arrived.  An aggressive interior fire attack was conducted, which resulted in the structure being saved. The fire was brought under control in about 25 minutes.

 

     The occupant of the residence, Brenda Kolaski, age 55, was at home when the fire was discovered.  She was treated at the scene by White Haven EMS and was taken to Hazleton General Hospital for evaluation.  She was treated and released a short time later.

 

    The majority of the fire was held to a bathroom and the attic area of the ranch style home.  The rest of the structure sustained water damage.

 

     Firefighters from White Haven and Foster Township were originally dispatched to the scene.  Additional firefighters from Dennison Township and Freeland Borough were called to provide additional assistance.  Other firefighters were cancelled when the fire was quickly brought under control.

 

     The property owner was determined to be the Kolaski’s father, William L. Baird, Sr of Plymouth, Pennsylvania.

     Fire Officials conducted a routine follow-up at the scene of the fire late Sunday morning.  While meeting with family members, they found a few areas still steaming.  A fire engine was called to the scene and firefighters removed some debris from the attic and wet down the area.

     The cause of the fire is under investigation by Foster Township Fire and the Pennsylvania State Police Fire Marshal.

 

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 Prepared by: Assistant Chief William J. Feissner

Released – 04/05/09


FEARNOTS VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY
301 Cedar Street, Freeland Pa 18224

NEWS RELEASE

ELDERLY FOSTER TOWNSHIP WOMAN CRITICALLY INJURED FOLLOWING FIRE; FOSTER TOWNSHIP FIREFIGHTER ALSO INJURED

         Firefighters from the Fearnots Volunteer Fire Company of Foster Township responded to a structure fire at 258/260 Main Street in the Highland section of Foster Township.  The fire critically injured the elderly occupant of the residence and a Fearnots firefighter was also injured during the blaze.

     The Luzerne County 911 Center received multiple calls reporting a structure fire at 7:13 pm Friday evening.  First arriving firefighters found neighbors pulling Pauline Bonivich, age 85, from the burning structure.  She was treated at the scene and flown by Medevac Helicopter to the Lehigh Valley Hospital in Allentown.  Her injuries are described as critical.

     Firefighters from Freeland Fire Department and Foster Township Fire conducted an aggressive interior fire attack, which saved the structure.  There was heavy smoke, water and fire damage to the first floor of the Bonivich residence (258 Main Street) and smoke and water damage to the other side of the ˝ double residence.  The other residence was owned by David and Sherry Morrison, who were home at the time of the fire with their son, David, Jr. 

     Foster Township Firefighters were assisted by members of the Freeland Fire Department on the 1 alarm fire.  Foster Township Fire protocols request that the Freeland Fire Department to be dispatched immediately and automatically on structure fires.  Freeland EMS also responded to the scene.

     As firefighters were battling the structure fire, a second call came for a wildland fire in the Hickory Hills development.  That call was responded to by the White Haven Fire Department and was classified as a minor incident.

     The injured Foster Township Firefighter was transported to the Hazleton General Hospital for evaluation of heat exhaustion.  The Firefighter’s name is being withheld to ensure that his family was notified.

     The cause of the fire is under investigation by Foster Township Fire and the Pennsylvania State Police Fire Marshal.

#    #    #

Prepared by: Assistant Chief William J. Feissner
Released – 04/05/09


FEARNOTS VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY
301 Cedar Street
, Freeland Pa 18224

 NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

FIREFIGHTERS RESPOND TO ACCIDENT INVOLVING HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
TRAINING WITH INVOLVED COMPANY PROVES SUCCESSFUL OUTCOME

  Several residences were evacuated as a precaution late Friday morning as a result of a hazardous materials accident.  The accident occurred on Lake Drive in the Hickory Hills section of Foster Township, around 11:15 am. 

  The truck was owned by Montour Oil and contained approximately 1500 gallons of liquid propane.  The truck had been traveling on Lake Drive, just off of Hickory Hills Drive, when it rolled onto its right side after going into a ditch.  The truck then began leaking propane, at a slow but constant rate.

   Foster Township Firefighters summoned assistance from White Haven Fire, Dennison Township Fire and the Luzerne County Emergency Management Agency.   Although there was no fire, there was a concern because of the leaking propane.  When propane is transported, it is a liquid, however – when exposed to air it expands and turns into a gaseous state.  Several roadways in the development were closed and several residences were evacuated.  The area was re-opened after the truck was up righted and cleared from the scene at approximately 2 pm.

  Foster Township Firefighters worked with officials from Montour Oil in order to stabilize the situation.  2 heavy duty wreckers from Kisenwether Towing were brought to the scene and lifted the wrecker back onto the roadway.  Workers had to be careful not to cause a spark or ignite the vapors during the recovery.  Firefighters used gas meters to monitor the leak.

  Foster Township Firefighters credit prior training with Montour Oil in having a successful outcome to this incident.  Firefighters, in the past, have partnered with Montour Oil, who have a facility on Lehigh Gorge Drive.  The training not only familiarized firefighters with details about the truck involved in today’s crash, but also made firefighters familiar with company officials who assisted at the incident.

  Montour Oil has supports firefighters with regular tours and inspections of their facility on Lehigh Gorge Drive.  They have also partnered with the Fearnots in installing a “dry fire hydrant” that is supplied by their retention pond.

  The driver of the truck was taken to Hazleton General Hospital by White Haven EMS for minor injuries.  Freeland EMS stood by until the conclusion of the incident.
                                                                                                                      #    #    #

 Prepared by: Assistant Chief William J. Feissner
Released – 01/23/09


FEARNOTS VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY
301 Cedar Street
, Freeland Pa 18224

NEWS RELEASE

WOMAN INJURED FOLLOWING FOSTER TOWNSHIP FIRE

     A Hickory Hills woman was transported to the hospital following a Tuesday night fire at her residence.  Firefighters were called to 35 Vacation Drive in the Hickory Hills development in Foster Township around 8:15 pm for a report of a structure fire.

     Firefighters responded to the scene and found a smoldering blanket and carpet inside the residence.  The fire was caused when the homeowner was cleaning and inadvertently threw a blanket on top of a lamp, causing it to fall to the floor.  The lamp ignited the blanket, which began to burn.  The homeowner pulled the burning blanket to the kitchen area where she doused it with water before leaving.  The quick action held the fire until firefighters responded to the scene.

      The 52 year old female sustained smoke inhalation and was taken to the Hazleton General Hospital.  Firefighters from the Fearnots Vol. Fire Co of Foster Township were assisted by White Haven Fire and EMS and Dennison Township Fire.

      Firefighters remained on the scene for approximately 40 minutes until the smoke condition was removed from the house. 
                                             
                                                                                                                     
#    #    #
 
Prepared by: Assistant Chief William J. Feissner
Released – 01/21/09


FEARNOTS VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY
301 Cedar Street, Freeland Pa 18224

NEWS RELEASE

 FIREFIGHTERS SAVE HOME AFTER VEHICLE CATCHES FIRE
BLAZE FOUGHT IN SINGLE DIGIT TEMPERATURES

     A residence in the Hickory Hills section of Foster Township was saved by firefighters following a vehicle fire in front of the residence.  Firefighters were dispatched to 32 Sunshine Drive just after 11:30 am Saturday morning for a vehicle fire endangering a structure. 

      A pick-up truck parked in front of the residence caught fire and was less than 5 feet from the house.  Firefighters found the engine compartment of the vehicle heavily involved in fire and impinging on the house.  An aggressive fire attack was made and contained the fire to the vehicle.  Although the fire nearly caught the house on fire, there was no damage caused to the residence, however; the pick-up truck was destroyed.

      In addition to the fire, firefighters also battled single digit temperatures and a below zero wind-chill.  Firefighters from the Fearnots Fire Department of Foster Township, assisted by firefighters from White Haven Fire, responded to the fire.  White Haven EMS also stood by.

      A preliminary investigation into the cause was conducted and it is believed that an engine block heater that was attached to the vehicle was to blame.  No firefighters or the homeowner were injured. 
                                                                                                                            
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 Prepared by: Assistant Chief William J. Feissner
Released – 01/17/09


NEWS RELEASE

December 6, 2008

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

FOSTER TOWNSHIP FIREFIGHTERS REMIND RESIDENTS

OF HOLIDAY SAFETY TIPS

     The Fearnots Fire Department of Foster Township reminds everyone of some tips to have a safe holiday season.  Each year, hospital emergency rooms treat about 12,500 people for injuries, such as falls, cuts and shocks, related to holiday lights, decorations and Christmas trees. In addition, there are 11,600 candle-related fires each year, resulting in 150 deaths, 1200 injuries and $173 million in property loss annually. Christmas trees are involved in about 300 fires annually, resulting in 10 deaths, 30 injuries and an average of more than $10 million in property loss and damage.  

  • Make sure that all your smoke detectors have fresh batteries and test them!  Make an emergency plan to use if a fire breaks out anywhere in the home. See that each family member knows what to do. PRACTICE THE PLAN!
  • Use tree lights that bear the Underwriters' Laboratory (U.L.) label, and check the strings for signs of wear and tear. Do not use lights that are frayed or operate with missing or broken bulbs.
  • Never use lighted candles on a tree or near other evergreens and use non-flammable holders. Keep candles away from other decorations and wrapping paper. Place candles where they cannot be knocked down or blown over.  Make sure that the flame is extinguished prior to going to sleep or leaving.
  • When purchasing a live tree, check for freshness. A fresh tree will stay green longer and be less of a fire hazard than a dry tree.  Dry trees are a fire hazard – we recommend reviewing the US Fire Administration holiday safety tips at http://www.usfa.dhs.gov.  The site also contains a video of how quickly a Christmas tree will burn.
  • Provide plenty of large, deep ashtrays for guests who smoke and check them frequently. Cigarette butts can smolder in the trash and cause a fire, so completely douse cigarette butts with water before discarding. Also, after a party, always check on, between and under upholstery and cushions for cigarette butts that may be smoldering.
  • Being a smart party host or guest should include being sensible about alcoholic drinks. More than half of all traffic fatalities are alcohol-related. Use designated drivers, people who do not drink, to drive other guests home after a holiday party.
  • Plan for safety. Remember, there is no substitute for common sense. Look for and eliminate potential danger spots near candles, fireplaces, trees, and/or electrical connections.

     It is important that your house number is visible from the roadway. We remind everyone to make sure that their house and mailbox is marked with a minimum of 3 inch reflective numbers.  In addition, rural driveways should be cut to a minimum of 12 feet wide in order to accommodate fire apparatus.   Emergencies can happen night or day and minutes make the difference. 

     The Fearnots Volunteer Fire Department covers 44 square miles of Foster Township, Luzerne County. The Department was the second in Pennsylvania to be certified by the State Fire Commissioner as having 50% or more of its members achieve standard firefighting professional qualifications.  The all volunteer department responds to calls within Foster Township and neighboring municipalities who request them - 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.  The Department responded to 170 incidents in 2007.

On the internet – www.fearnots.com

#     #     #

Prepared by: Assistant Chief William J. Feissner

Released – 12/06/08

FEARNOTS WELCOME BACK FIREFIGHTER FROM MILITARY SERVICE

November 21, 2008
Regional firefighters and EMS workers welcomed home Firefighter Jon Dancho and his brother, Jerry, on Friday evening following a 14 month deployment in Afghanistan.  They were serving with the Army National Guard Reserve 109th Field Artillery Unit of Kingston.  Jon was honored late Friday night with a parade of apparatus from Foster Township, Freeland Fire, Freeland EMS and Hazle Township Fire - all of which Jon is a member.

Our family welcomes Jon and his brother home and thanks them for their service!

 

FEARNOTS INSPECT QUICK ATTACK VEHICLE PRODUCTION

On March 22, 2007 members of the Fearnots traveled to Swab Wagon Company of Elizabethville, Pennsylvania to see the progress on the production of its quick attack truck.  The truck will soon be receiving a water tank, pump and emergency lighting.  Delivery is expected in early June.  The Fearnots have already received thousands of dollars of donations in order to equip the truck.  The Fearnots expect this piece of apparatus to be equipped with an additional Jaws of Life system and which can serve independently or compliment the current rescue/squirt.

 

FEARNOTS TO ACQUIRE 4 WHEEL DRIVE ATTACK VEHICLE

   

     The Fearnots are proud to announce the purchase of a new attack truck designed to be used for multiple firefighting purposes.  The truck will be purchased in part by a $78,850 firefighter assistance grant obtained though the Department of Homeland Security.  The new truck will be manufactured on a Ford Chassis by SWAB Wagon Company of Elizabethville, Pennsylvania. (December 2007)

   
   

   

FEARNOTS TO ACQUIRE ENGINE / LADDER / RESCUE

At a special meeting held on March 25, 2007 it was the unanimous decision of the attending members to purchase a Pierce Saber Squirt.  Last week, 5 members of the department traveled to California to view the 1997 Pierce.  The apparatus was found in superb condition, limited mileage/hours and had been previously owned by a volunteer California department. That department recently purchased a new 105 foot Pierce ladder due to a land conservation ordinance, which provided for building higher buildings.

The Squirt will provide the department with a 50 foot apparatus mounted ladder, capable of a 500 pound "tip load" and the ability to flow 1000 gallons per minute from a remote controlled nozzle.  The ladder is capable of being set up by one firefighter in less than 2 - 3 minutes.  The nozzle can be controlled from the ground, or the ladder tip, and can be rotated 90 degrees upward.  The Squirt, which is expected to be called "Engine 2", is 2 feet shorter than our current engine and provides for a tight turning radius and ability to get in tight spots, such as alleys and rural driveways, where conventional ladder trucks can't reach.

The current engine, a 1991 Pierce - Engine 49, will be placed on consignment with the company who was selling the squirt.  The department had begun to explore the purchase of a new Rescue/Engine when the opportunity to acquire this Pierce Squirt was discovered.  Economically, the new truck fits the needs of the department while costing only a fraction of new piece of apparatus.  The new apparatus will also be used for rescue and will be equipped with a "Jaws of Life", hydraulic rams, airbags and other rescue equipment.

The purchase will be the first apparatus mounted ladder that the company has owned since it's inception in 1954.  The apparatus will provide the unique ability of a single truck that can provide a ladder, rescue equipment and a pumper in one.  The unit also has a 1250 gpm pump and a hydraulic ground ladder rack.  It will provide almost double the compartment space of the departments currently owned engine/rescue.  The ability for apparatus to provide "multiple functions" was important in the decision to purchase.  Since the department is volunteer, manpower is an issue, especially during traditional "working" hours.  This apparatus is able to perform a variety of functions with limited manpower.

The Squirt will be a great asset to providing the best fire and rescue services to  the residents and visitors of Foster Township and surrounding areas.  The engine - ladder - rescue will also assist and compliment the firefighting capabilities of surrounding municipalities and will be the only "Squirt" in the lower Luzerne County area.

The Fearnots Volunteer Fire Department provides primary fire and rescue services to the 44 square miles of Foster Township. The department operates 24 hours per day, 365 days per year and is staffed by volunteers.  The department was the second in Pennsylvania to be certified by the State Fire Commissioner has having 50% of it's active members certified as Firefighter I or above.

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--REMINDER--

The January, February and March monthly meetings will take place on the first Sunday of the month, rather than the first Tuesday.  Fire company meetings will be held Sunday at 1 pm, with the Officers meeting starting at 12:30.   The regular Tuesday meetings will resume in April.

-- FEARNOTS INSTALLS 2007 OFFICERS --

Release 1/7/2007

 

The Fearnots Volunteer Fire Department installed it's 2007 Officers at the annual re-organization meeting which was held on January 7, 2006.  A listing of current officers can be found on the "Officers" page.

 

--2005 FUND DRIVE IN PROGRESS--

Release date - May 2005

 

The Fearnots Volunteer Fire Company is now conducting its Annual Fund Drive for 2005!  Residents have been mailed fund drive packets.  If you haven't received one please call (570) 636-0347 and leave your name and address or send a donation to the address below.

 

Through the past generosities our fire company has been able to certify 50% of our active firefighters as Firefighter I or II by the National Board on Fire Services Professional Qualifications and has been able to upgrade the fire fighting equipment and supplies to current levels.

 

The largest funding source for our Fire Department is this fund drive.  It provides us with the funds necessary to purchase firefighting gear and equipment.  In the past, your donations have helped us make these purchases, which helps keep your fire insurance premium down.  Our members receive NO financial compensation for any firefighting activity and the organization is all volunteer.

 

Your contribution helps us help you.  Our members respond to emergencies 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.  The money that we raise helps purchase equipment and upgrade existing equipment so that we can keep you, your family and your neighbors safe.

 

Please contribute today to our Annual Fund Drive!

 

Donations may be sent to:

Fearnots Volunteer Fire Company

301 Cedar Street

Freeland, Pa 18224-2027

Please include your name and NEW address so that we may have a record of your donation.

 

Checks may be made payable to "Fearnots Volunteer Fire Company"

 

 

--PUBLIC INFO--

LIFE SAFETY INFORMATION

PROPER GENERATOR USE

RELEASE: January 9, 2005

Foster Township received a heavy ice storm on January 7-9, 2005.  Many of the areas in our coverage area lost power for a substantial amount of time.  Due to the power outages, residents are beginning to use portable power generators to run into their household.  Foster Township Fire reminds everyone that these portable generators are not to be used in confined areas of the home OR the basement.  Neighboring counties are experiencing people being overcome by carbon monoxide and even 2 deaths can be attributed to the improper use of generators.  Please use the manufacturer's recommendations when using these devices. Please be aware of this and inform your friends and neighbors who have any gas powered equipment.

--PUBLIC INFO--

NEW PHONE FOR CHRISTMAS?

RELEASE DATE: December 27, 2004

 

Did you or a loved one receive a new telephone for Christmas?  Foster Township Fire would like to recommend that you are very careful when programming "autodial" features on your phone.  Universally, "911" is immediately recognized during an emergency, much more so than an "autodial" feature of your phone.  Preprogramming "911" into a one touch dial is prone to misdialing the 911 Center when there is no emergency.  These type calls tie up the 911 lines from your exchange and tie up dispatchers who are busy answering emergency calls.  We would recommend not programming 911 into the phone and instead, place a "911" type sticker on or near the phone.  Chances are, if an emergency would occur, it's easier to dial 911 than figure out the buttons on the phone.

 

 

 

 

04/05/2009 04:06 PM