- Important News from Santa and the Fanwood Fire Department -
On Saturday, December 19th from 11am to 2pm Santa will make a drive-by through Fanwood on a fire engine!
Due to the pandemic, there are changes to this year’s visit:
The fire engine will not stop at any house
Santa will be unable to stop to pose for photos
There’s no need to sign up, Santa will pass every home
There will be no gift collecting, Santa will not hand out presents
Santa’s helpers will be throwing candy canes to everyone
Santa’s appearance on each street will not follow any previous year’s schedule. The entire run should be finished by 2pm at the latest.
The Fanwood Fire Department, Rescue Squad and Police Department appreciate everyone understanding the challenges we face this year while still trying to bring some happiness to our borough.
Listen for the sirens on December 19th from 11am to 2pm!!
- Remembering 9/11/2001 -
"And he looks at me, and I tell him where I thought the fire was. And then, it was like time just stopped. We stood there for a couple seconds, and just stood there looking at each other."
FDNY Battallion Chief Joe Pfeiffer, on the last time he saw his brother, FDNY Lieutenant Kevin Pfeiffer, in the lobby of WTC building #2 on 9/11/01.
9/2/2020 - Training
Scenes from a recent training where Capt. Gorman assisted EMT Melissa Padulsky at La Grande Park
8/5/2020 - Tropical Storm Isaias
Tropical storm Isaias downed many trees, power lines and telephone poles in Fanwood and surrounding towns. More than half of Fanwood's homes were left without power.
The Fanwood Fire Department responded to several dozen 911 calls, of particular concern were cases where primary lines were on the ground or hanging.
No serious injuries were reported, and there were no fires.
6/2/2020 - Structure Fire - Belvidere Ave
On 6/2 around 5:30 AM, Fanwood FD was dispatched to a structure fire on Belvidere Ave.
Scotch Plains FD was immediately requested to assist.
The fire, which started in an electrical outlet near the generator, extended up the outside rear wall but was stopped prior to extending inside.
No injuries were reported and the family was not displaced.
5/22/2020 - Structure Fire - Montrose Ave
On 5/22 around midnight, Fanwood FD was dispatched to a structure fire on Montrose Ave.
Scotch Plains FD was immediately requested to assist.
The fire, which started outside, extended up the outside wall but was stopped prior to extending inside.
No injuries were reported, and the family was not displaced.
3/14/2020 - Caronavirus Update from FFD
The Fanwood Fire Department is prepared to respond to emergencies 24/7, during this challenging time.
We are closely following all guidelines recommended by the CDC and local health officials to help control the spread of the Coronavirus.
We are taking every precaution to protect our residents and members, but rest assured, we are here for you!
We ask that you be patient with our call takers, as they are instructed to ask specific questions to insure public safety. Together, we will get through this!
Chief Piccola
The Fanwood Fire Department was dispatched to Midway Ave near Hunter Ave today on reports of a New Jersey Transit bus fire.
Although moderate smoke was seen from 1/4 mile away, there was a small engine fire in the rear of the bus that was contained by extinguishers used by Fanwood PD.
FFD ensured the fire was completely out, and cleaned up a large amount of oil that leaked onto the road.
The driver and passengers self-evacuated from the bus, and no injuries were reported.
Midway Ave remained closed for about 45 minutes.
3/5/2020 - New Radios for Enhanced Safety Communications
The Fanwood Fire Department along with other Union County departments attended a ceremony this week at Public Safety Headquarters in Westfield to accept delivery of new advanced digital radios.
These radios allow firefighters access to the NJ Interoperability Communications System, which has enhanced radio coverage throughout Union County and the UASI (Urban Area Security Initiative) region.
Fanwood Chief John Piccola, along with other county chiefs, accepted delivery of the radios from Freeholder Chairman Al Mirabella.
11/11/2019 - Veterans Day Observances
The Fanwood Fire Department attended Veterans Day observances in downtown Scotch Plains and at the Fanwood Library on Monday.
Crews on Fanwood Ladder 1 and Fanwood Engine 7 attended.
2019 ANNUAL SANTA RUN
Santa will be in Fanwood!
Saturday, Dec 14th starting at 11 AM, the usual route will be followed.
Due to Thanksgiving being so late this year, the package drop-off will be from Tuesday 11/19 through Saturday 11/23 from 5pm to 9pm each day at the firehouse behind borough hall.
Important Note: Late packages will not be accepted, and packages larger than a standard shoe box size will be turned away.
9/24/2019 - Fanwood Firefighter Tony Grasso Jr Swear-in
Fanwood Volunteer Firefighter Tony Grasso Jr was sworn in as a Westfield Firefighter on Monday at Westfield Town Hall. In attendance were other members of FFD and Tony's family.
All of us on the department are proud of Firefighter Grasso, his dedication and passion to the fire service will benefit the Westfield FD as much as it does ours.
Congratulations Tony!
8/31/2019 - Structure Fire on Forest Road
On 8/31/2019, Fanwood Fire Department responded to the report of a structure fire on Forest Road. Upon arrival units discovered a deck fire that had extended to the exterior wall of the structure.
Engine 7 and Ladder 1 responded and quickly extinguished the fire. Scotch plains Fire Department also responded to complete the first alarm assignment.
Fortunately, the fire was contained to the exterior of the home and there were no injuries.
8/01/2019 - In Memoriam - Former Firefighter, Councilman, and Police Chief Anthony Parenti
Anthony Parenti passed away on August 1st at the age of 87. Chief Parenti's contributions to our community spanned many years and several organizations.
He served on the Fanwood Police Department for over 40 years, including 22 years as chief. He was a Fanwood Firefighter from 1958 until 1980, and was a Fanwood Councilman from 2008 to 2013.
7/26/2019 - Fire at Terrill Middle School
On Friday 7/26/2019 at approximately 7:45 PM, Fanwood Fire Department was dispatched to assist Scotch Plains Fire Department with a fire at Terrill Middle School.
The fire, which was isolated to a small area in the kitchen, was quickly extinguished by SPFD. Fanwood Ladder 1 and Engine 7 responded and assisted with ventilation.
Fortunately, there was nobody in the school at the time of the fire and there were no injuries.
7/06/2019 - In Memoriam - Len Zuchowski
Retired Fanwood Firefighter Len Zuchowski passed away on July 6th, 2019 at the age of 97.
At the age of 19, Len began serving in WWII with the 1st Marine Division in the Pacific Theater.
As a member of the 1st Marine Division Recon Team he was awarded 2 Presidential Unit Citations, the American Campaign Medal, the Pacific Campaign Medal with 4 Bronze Stars, the WW II Victory Medal, and the N.J. Distinguished Service Medal.
Len and his wife Irene moved to Fanwood in 1954 where they raised two girls, Carol and Jeanne.
For the next 62 years Len was a fixture in the Fanwood community where he devoted 55 years to the Fanwood Volunteer Fire Department.
We are very grateful to Lenny's many years of volunteer service.
Additional information can be found here.
6/30/2019 - Three Car MVA
While standing by at the annual Fanwood Fan Jam, Fanwood Fire Department was dispatched to a reported oven fire on Poplar Place. The fire was extinguished prior to units arriving on scene. Engine 7 responded and ventilated the structure in addition to ensuring that there was no extension of the fire.
While Engine 7 was returning to headquarters, they discovered a three-car MVA that had just occurred on South Martine Ave. Fanwood Fire Department quickly secured the scene of all hazards.
Fortunately, there were no injuries at either incidents.
6/29/2019 - Fire at The Chelsea
At approximately 3:45am on June 29, 2019, Fanwood Fired Department was dispatched to the Chelsea for the activated fire alarm. Upon arrival, units discovered heavy smoke on the third floor. A second alarm was struck and Scotch Plains Fired Department, Plainfield Fire Division, Westfield Fire Department, and Cranford Fire Deparment responded to the scene.
Firefighters quickly extinguished a fire that was confined to a single apartment and assisted with evacuating residents who were unable to self-evacuate. EMS from multiple towns also responded to the scene to evaluate approximately 15 affected residents. One resident was transported to a local hospital for a non-fire related issue.
6/8/2019 - 2019 Annual Coin Toss / Boot Drive
Fanwood Fire Department would like to thank everybody who donated to our annual coin toss yesterday. Your generosity is what enables us to help you! We would also like to give a special thank you to Fanwood Bagels & Deli and Fabios Bistro who donated bagels and pizza to our firefighters participating in the coin toss.
6/2/2019 - House Fire - Laurel Place
On Sunday evening the Fanwood Fire Department was dispatched to Laurel Place on a report of smoke in a home. The Scotch Plains FD was also dispatched. Units arrived to heavy smoke due to a fire in the rear of the house.
The fire was quickly extinguished, and fortunately there were no injuries. The cause of the fire is being investigated.
Summer is Here, light up that Grill!
But Please Don't Be This Guy...
- At the start of the season, check gas tank hoses for leaks by applying a light soap and water solution.
- Grills should be away from the home, eaves, deck railings and overhanging branches.
- Clean grills often, removing grease buildup.
- Make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting.
- Have a 3 foot safe zone around grills and fire pits. Keep kids and pets clear of that area.
- Dispose of coals only after they cool, and in a metal can outdoors.
- Never leave grills, fire pits or patio torches unattended.
- Never delay calling 911 when necessary.
Have A Safe, Healthy and Happy Summer!
5/28/2019 - Memorial Day Services
The Fanwood Fire Department attended the Fanwood Memorial Day service at the library, then marched in the Fanwood/Scotch Plains parade. The good weather helped with bringing a good turnout of local residents for both events.
5/14/2019 - MVA Into Building
At approximately 20:30 hours Fanwood Fire Department was dispatched to Dunkin Donuts for a Motor Vehicle Accident into the building. Upon arrival, FFD discovered a single-car that had struck the structure. Fortunately there were no injuries and the damage to the building was minor.
4/23/2019 - Ex-Chief Hamill and Assistant Chief Zawodniak Honored
During the 44th Annual Knights of Columbus Shield Awards held at St Bartholomew Church on Tuesday night, two members of the Fanwood Fire Department were honored.
Fanwood Ex-Fire Chief and active firefighter Russ Hamill received an honorary award for his 46 years of service and contribution to the Fanwood Fire Department.
Russ joined the Fanwood FD in 1973 and was fire chief for three years starting in 1983. He also served with the Newark Fire Auxiliary from 1977 to 1987. Russ is involved with the Fireman's Exempt and Relief Associations, which aid firefighters with financial needs and death benefits.
Russ has extensive diesel and heavy truck knowledge, and provides some of the maintenance for the department's fire engines.
Assistant Fire Chief Dave Zawodniak was honored for his 26 years of service and contribution to the Fanwood Rescue Squad.
Dave joined the rescue squad as an EMT in 1992, and has been an active member since that time. He is currently vice president of the squad and manages their insurance policies.
He is also the current Assistant Fire Chief for the fire department, having been a member for 38 years.
"DZ" is highly respected at both the rescue squad and fire department. Quoting rescue squad president Ed Winsor who presented Dave the award....
"DZ is one of our most level headed individuals and one of our elder statesmen. Dave embodies the values of hard work, determination, preparedness, pragmatism, and teamwork while maintaining an intellectual curiosity and a willingness toward continual improvement."
Congratulations Russ and DZ, you both deserve this appreciation for your years of dedication to Fanwood and surrounding communities.
3/18/2019 - Structure Fire in Scotch Plains
On 3/18/2019 Fanwood FD was dispatched into Scotch Plains for the report of a structure fire. Upon arrival Scotch Plains Fire Department confirmed a fully-involved residential structure fire. SPFD began knocking down the fire on divisions 1 and 2 while Fanwood Ladder 1 took a second line into the basement to extinguish the remaining fire. Fanwood Engines 7 and 8 also responded and conducted primary searches and assisted with ventilation and overhaul. Although there was extensive damage to the home we are fortunate that there were no injuries.
Wishing You a Safe and Healthy 2019
The members of the Fanwood Volunteer Fire department want to wish you and your family a safe, healthy and happy 2019. Thank you for all of your support in 2018!
12/15/2018 - Santa visits Fanwood
Santa visited Fanwood on a fire truck Saturday. Kids of all ages were happy to see St. Nick.
Thanks goes to all members of the Fanwood Police, Rescue Squad, Fire Department and family members who helped make this yearly tradition a success.
Fanwood FD and Lions Club Christmas Tree Sale a Success
We sold out of all trees at the FD and Lions Club Tree Sale at LaGrande Park. Thanks to everyone who stopped by to purchase a tree.
10/17/18 - Fanwood Firefighter Joe Route Named Volunteer of the Month
Congratulations to Firefighter Joe Route, who was named by the Fanwood Town Council as Volunteer of the Month in our borough.
Mayor Colleen Mahr presented Joe with a sketch of the Fanwood Train Station commemorating his award.
Joe has been a firefighter since 2005 and currently leads the FFD Relief Fund, which is designed to help firefighters in need.
Joe's son Nick, who is currently away at college, is also a volunteer. He is an EMT with the Fanwood Rescue Squad.
Congratulations Joe!
10/21/18 - Truck brings down pole on 1st Street
A driver snapped a telephone pole while maneuvering his semi in a parking lot on First Street.
Several local residents were without power until late into the night.
There were no injuries.
10/21/18 - Fanwood 5K and Superhero Fun Run
Runners who participated in Sunday's 5k and Superhero Fun Run events ran under a large American flag hanging from the ladder extended on Ladder 1 on LaGrande Avenue.
It was a cold morning, but there was a good turnout and everyone had fun.
10/9/18 - Fire Safety at School 1
Fanwood Fireman Doug Germinder held a fire safety lesson at School 1. This included teaching "stop, drop and roll".
Firefighter Germinder also geared up to demonstrate how firemen would appear when searching in a home. This helps children understand that in an emergency, there is a friendly fireman behind the mask and gear who is there to help.
A few days later, the students also had a visit at Fanwood Fire Headquarters, where they were given demonstrations of the apparatus and fire gear.
9/22/18 - Annual Coin Toss
Fanwood FD held it's annual coin toss on Saturday. We were stationed at North Ave and Hetfield, and South Ave and Martine.
We appreciate the amazing generosity and many positive comments we received from the community.
Thank you for your support.
We'd also like to thank Fanwood Bagel for providing bagels.
9/8/18 - Serving Fanwood Residents... including Man's Best Friend!
On Sept 8th at 4:00 AM FFD was called to a Fanwood home for a dog in distress. Stella is an older, blind, diabetic pet who is loved by her family. She was trapped in the legs of a metal chair, and even worse, injured herself more by trying to bite her way out.
First on scene was Chief John Piccola, who led the effort to free the dog from a tricky entrapment. The dog was released from the chair in minutes, and returned to her relieved family.
The resident expressed her thanks to our Chief and the entire department, as was mentioned on the borough's Facebook page (see image).
Great job chief!
8/2018 - Assorted Calls
The Fanwood Fire Department had a busy August 2018 month. Calls included a basement fire in Scotch Plains, and several wire/transformer fires.
8/7/18 - National Night Out
The Fanwood Fire Department participated along with the Fanwood Police and Rescue Squad at National Night Out in LaGrande Park.
Although rain was threatening, many residents came out and enjoyed the free food and activities.
(photos courtesy of Tom Kranz)
- 6/18/18 - New Firefighter Graduates -
The Fanwood Fire Department added three new members who graduated from the Union County Fire Academy.
New recruits face 5 challenging months of Monday, Wednesday and Friday night classes, all day Saturdays and some Sundays.
We congratulate Vinny Biancho, Mike Colineri and Matt Ridge. Great job guys!
- Memorial Day Weekend 2018 -
The Fanwood Volunteer Fire Department was proud to participate in this year's Fanwood and Scotch Plains Memorial Day activities.
Photos courtesy of Tom Kranz, John Mooney and Jonathan Joshua
5/21/18 - MVA - Car Into Tree
A car heading northbound on Martine Ave near the intersection of Herbert Ave crossed into the southbound lane, then hit a tree.
Engine 7 and Ladder 1 responded. Crews assisted with patient assessment, safely securing the vehicle, and cleanup.
The driver was transported to a local area hospital.
5/18/18 - Restaurant Kitchen Fire
Fanwood FD assisted Scotch Plains FD at an early morning fire at a restaurant on Park Ave in downtown Scotch Plains.
FFD was dispatched at approximately 1:30 AM. Engine 7, Engine 8, and Ladder 1 responded.
The fire was contained to the kitchen but there was smoke damage throughout the building.
5/15/18 - Heavy Rain and High Winds
A strong storm with high wind gusts swept through Fanwood on Tuesday evening.
Several areas around the borough were left without power due to downed wires.
Fortunately there were no injuries.
4/25/18 - Knights of Columbus
Annual Shield Awards
Fanwood and Scotch Plains Police, Fire and Rescue Squads were recognized at the annual Shield Awards presented by the Knights of Columbus at St. Bartholomew's Church.
Assistant Chief Steve Szanto accepted the award for all FFD members, and noted the ongoing successful partnership between the Fanwood and Scotch Plains Fire Departments.
3/29/18 - Rollover - Montrose and Martine
Fanwood Fire was dispatched to a vehicle rollover at Montrose and Martine Thursday evening. Firefighters arrived to an SUV on its side with an entrapped victim.
Crews from Engine 7 and Ladder 1 stabilized the vehicle and safely removed the patient.
The patient was treated at the scene by the Fanwood Rescue Squad and released.
3/20/18 - South and Terrill - Extrication
The Fanwood Fire Department extricated a man from his vehicle after he lost control and rolled over at the intersection of South Ave and Terrill Road.
Firefighters needed to remove the roof of the vehicle to safely extricate the patient.
The man was transported by Fanwood EMS to a local hospital with minor injuries.
3/3/2018 - Damaging High Winds
The Fanwood Fire Department spent most of the day on Saturday responding to wires down, flooded basements, and trees falling - several causing major damage to homes. Details to follow...
3/1/2018 - Structure Fire - Crestwood Rd, Scotch Plains
FFD was dispatched to assist Scotch Plains FD at a house fire on Crestwood Road. Units arrived to a well-involved fire on both floors. Details to follow...
2/16/2018 - MVA w Injuries
At approximately 6:00 AM on Friday FFD was dispatched to an MVA with three vehicles on Terrill Road near Midway.
Five people were hurt and several were taken to area hospitals with non life-threatening injuries.
FFD provided extrication support, assisted with patient removal, and cleared debris and leaking fluids from the roadway.
Both directions of Terrill Road were closed for about an hour.
1/22/18 - Combined Drill w Scotch Plains FD
The Fanwood FD participated in a drill with Scotch Plains FD at 2 homes on Terrill road that were to be demolished.
Drills included - forcible entry, searching for victims, wall breaches, self-rescue, ladder operations, and roof operations including ventilation.
Thanks to the SPFD for the invitation to participate in this event.
1/20/18 - Annual Dinner Dance
The Fanwood Fire Department and Rescue Squad held their annual Dinner and Awards Presentation at the Westwood in Garwood.
The following awards were presented:
- Top Call Pct for 2017 -
Officer - Chief John Piccola
FF - Tony Grasso Jr
- Active Service Awards -
Company Pres Rick Regenthal - 40 yrs
Asst Chief Steve Szanto - 20 yrs
FF Bill Mauer - 15 yrs
FF Jimmy Drewes - 15 yrs
FF Dan Piccola - 10 yrs
FF Tony Grasso - 5 yrs
FF Zach Weisglass - 5 yrs
- New Life Members (25 yrs of active service) -
Company Pres Rick Regenthal - 40 yrs
FF Jeff Downing - 37 yrs
Chief John Piccola - 37 yrs
Ex-Chief Dave Clausen - 33 yrs
FF Bruce Padulsky - 26 yrs
1/2/18 - Midway Ave Basement Fire
January 2nd, at 1600 hours, the Fanwood FD was dispatched to Midway Ave to a reported basement fire.
Scotch Plains FD was dispatched to fill the box and a truck from N Plfd was requested to the scene. Fire was under control within 45 minutes in 15° temperatures.
A cover assignment was assigned to Fanwood Fire headquarters to cover Fanwood and Scotch Plains. No injuries we're reported!
