How fast does fire spread?

Modern synthetic materials help fire to spread very quickly - much quicker than most people realize.  To this end, fire departments have initiated box alarms to get the needed resources dispatched to the fire even BEFORE the chief gets on scene. (Box alarms: Part 1 & Part 2)

Before you watch the video think about how long you think it would take for your living room to be fully involved with fire.  Now click Play and see how close your guess is.

Does something strike you as odd about this video? The absence of smoke alarms makes this simulated situation very dangerous! Your comments about the video would be appreciated.

How to join the volunteers at Clinton Fire Department

As someone who's been part of the Clinton Fire Department (CFD)  family for over 10 years, I can't speak highly enough about the bonds that are created by being a part of such a fantastic community organization.  I would encourage you to reach out to us if you are interested in becoming a member.  Many of us delay this fantastic experience because we are waiting for the perfect time to start.  The fact is that once you join the CFD family, it becomes part of your life rather than a hobby that you have to make time for.  Helping others is extremely rewarding, exciting and fun.

CFD offers three types of volunteer membership:

1) Active firefighter (over 18 years of age)
Active firefighters make up the bulk of our membership and they are responsible for all the fire-related activities of CFD. All prospective active firefighters must be over 18 years, possess a valid NJ driver’s license and are required to pass a physical exam. Once a physical has been completed recruits begin the New Jersey Firefighter I course which is an exciting introductory program to fire science. All recruits are required to receive a passing grade on the State certified exam which is administered at the end of the program. To remain in good standing, active members must maintain 25% service and participate in not less than 4 monthly meetings and 4 fundraising activities for the previous 12 months.

2) Junior firefighter
Being involved in the community has a very positive influence on young people.  At CFD we are very proud of the large number of Juniors that are currently in our ranks. Junior members are responsible to respond to all fire calls, drills and community days - whenever possible. Upon turning 18, Junior members complete all required steps to become active members. To remain in good standing, Junior members must maintain 25% service and participate in not less than 4 monthly meetings and 4 fundraising activities for the previous 12 months.

3) Associate member
Associate members are valuable support staff to the active firefighters. Associate members are not required to be involved in active firefighting at a scene although in many cases they may provide an essential support function. In addition, associate members assist the department with activities such as fundraisers and department work activities. To remain in good standing, associate members must participate in not less than 4 monthly meetings and 4 fundraising activities for the previous 12 months.

Here’s an overview of the CFD Application Roadmap:

1) Complete an application form
Pick up an application from one of the fire department officers. Monday nights between 6 and 7 we are guaranteed to be at the station (New street across from the Post Office). The application form needs to be completed and all references and fire certifications need to be listed.

2) Complete the driver’s license check form (Active members only)
Driver’s licenses will be checked through the Town of Clinton on behalf of our insurance company.

3) Complete a physical (Not applicable for Associate members)

Every prospective firefighting member must have a medical exam completed. You will be required to complete the N.J. State Relief Form for the physical.

4) Complete a background check (Not applicable for Juniors)
As part of the membership application process all new members are required to complete a full background check.

5) Meet with CFD membership committee
Once you have completed steps 1-4 (above) you will be required to meet with the membership committee.

6) Complete a prescreening (Not applicable for Juniors)
All new candidate members will need to pass a pre-screening urine drug test as a condition of membership. Candidates will be given the necessary paperwork during the membership interview.

As a final note I'd like to point out the obvious - NONE of us get paid, we volunteer our time and service because we want to give back to the community.  A few years ago we had a new junior who was in the process of completing his paperwork who came up to one of the 'older' guys (an ex-chief) one day and asked when we were getting paid.  The ex-chief replied without missing a beat "I don't know young man, I've been here for over forty years and I'm still waiting for my check".  I hope to see you down at the fire house soon joining the ranks of the volunteer fire service - a proud American tradition!

STAY SAFE!

Busy Again After 9 Days With No Calls.

Our members had a nice break going 9 days without any emergency calls. During that time they took care of equipment and the firehouse, did a firework stand by at the Hunterdon Developmental Center, and stood by during the Iron and Steel Run. On Sunday our members responded to a minor 2 car Motor Vehicle Accident(MVA) in Union Township near the Clinton Station Diner. Units were dispatched at 1453 and back in quarters at 1510.

On Tuesday night at 2030, CFD was dispatched to Patrick Drive in Union Township for an odor of something burning in a residence. Deputy Chief 45 arrived on scene at 2038 and took command of the incident. CFD was assisted by an Engine from Quakertown and Pattenburg on this call. A thorough investigation of the residence found a Compact Fluorescent Light(CFL) bulb shorted out and was burning in side the base and was turning black. The bulb was removed and all units were back in quarters and ready for service at 2127.

Just as units returned to quarters at 2127, CFD was dispatched for an audible fire alarm on Leigh St between Lower Center St. and Main St. Deputy Chief 45 and both CFD Engines arrived on scene in less than 1 minute, with Deputy 45 taking command of the incident. Members made entry and found a significant smoke condition in the building. Command upgraded the incident to a level 2, bringing an Engine from Quakertown and Annandale, a Ladder from High Bridge, and FAST from Lebanon Boro. Water supply was established and crews began searching the building, quickly determining the fire was a cooking fire confined to the stove. Level 2 units were cancelled and CFD units operated on scene until 2234.

On Wednesday at 1134, CFD was dispatched to set up a landing zone for a medical helicopter. This was a mutual aid response to assist Annandale while they operated at the scene of a serious MVA on Route 31. Engine 451 responded and stood by at Bundt Park While the helicopter landed a took off with the patient.