Gloucester City Fire Department Evaluation; Discipline is Missing; Nine Men Resigned

Note: The article was first published in 2024

GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (2024(Cleary’s Notebook News)–The Gloucester City Mayor Dayl Baile and Council hired the Smith Consulting Group of Ocean City, NJ, in 2024 to assess the members Gloucester City paid fire department. The owner, James P. Smith Jr., has 30 years of experience in firefighting and is the Ocean City Fire Chief overseeing 67 department members.

According to the report, the 14-page evaluation was conducted by interviewing all 22 department members to understand their issues, views, perspectives, and ideas for future growth.

After interviewing the members, the evaluator observed that discipline needs to be consistently administered and that officers should be trained to handle infractions. The report mentioned that nine people, or 40 percent, have left the department over the past 11 years.

Smith released 20 recommendations, each placed under a subtitle. For example, under the title DISCIPLINE Smith wrote in part;

1: The department should receive training from a legal expert in managing disciplinary issues in the fire service. All members must understand what is deemed harassment, unacceptable acts, and the value of respect towards peers. The current culture in the department is disappointing, and for many members, it is seemingly void of respect towards their peers.

2:The department must create a set of rules and regulations that is a guide for the department rules and acceptable actions and behaviors.

3: Return to basics for training. If a member needs more time to become proficiendt in a certain skill, they should recieved the proper time and instruction.

4: Organize training with Camden City for hazardous materials and special operations is important. A better understanding of who is responding for the GCFD crew when in Camden is necessary. Once threw with training in Camdem the crew should return to the city immediately.

5: Provide prior knowledege to the shift that training will be upcoming.

6: The department should invest in a records management program to log and record all training.

7: Consider a schedule change from a four platoon system to a three platoon system. This will require a negotiation with the unions. It is more efficient and will provide extra staffing that the members requested.

8. Carrying vacation time from year to year should stop. This would eliminate the unknown of how many shifts the chief need to cover for any given year.

9. If a three-platoon system is enacted, vacation slots should be limited to just one member daily.

10. Sick time usage in 12 hour-blocks should stop. Members may be capable of returning to work in less time, but are forced to stay out for a full 12.

11. Consider merging the two labor unions for the betterment of the department and the community.

12. Consider starting a Community Risk Reduction program to assist the citizens of Gloucester City before emergencies happen.

13. Establish the civil service rank of deputy chief and promote an officer who shows strong qualities of a future department chief. The newly created deputy chief rank salary should minimally be the current fire chief salary.

14. The GCFD must reestablish relationships with all of their mutual aid partners. Training needs to occur with more than just Camden City.

15. The entire department should receive leadership training.

16. The department should rebrand itself. Have a fresh new start and place the hostile acts and behaviors in the past.

17. Some type of sensitivity training needs to occur. The stories from the interviews are disappointing. The members need to be informed of what is unacceptable behavior.

18. Once the local civil service entrance list is exhausted, consider hiring firefighters from the county list.

19. The fire chief salary needs to be raised to attract the best and the brightest to the position.

20. Consideration should be made around Chief Hagan’s retirement that an outside individual hired as a department head may be better than just promoting someone internally to the fire position. Some patience is vital to finding the right person. Internal or external pressure to fill the position should not be entertained.

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Apartment Leasing Office Destroyed In Overnight Fire in Gloucester Township

On Saturday, January 10, 2026 at approximately 2:26 am Officers from the Gloucester Township Police Department were dispatched to the Lakeview Apartments, Leasing / Management Office, to investigate a combination fire alarm and burglar alarm activation.

Arriving Firefighters from Chews Landing observed heavy fire conditions from the unoccupied apartment complex leasing office and requested additional fire suppression assets, initiating a 2nd Alarm. Officers from the GTPD initiated road closures on Lakeviews Drive and Pine Run to support fire suppression efforts. A unified command post was established with Police, Fire, EMS and Camden County Communications. Along with Chews Landing, the following FD’s also assisted: Blackwood, Blenheim, Glendora, Erial, Magnolia, Bellmawr, Runnemede, Lindenwold, Somerdale and Cherry Hill.

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GLOUCESTER CITY FIRE DEPT. ENGINE 51 OPEN HOUSE

GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (October 4, 2025) (CNBNEWS) –The dedicated officers and members of the Gloucester City Fire Department, Engine 51, warmly invite all residents to join them for a Open House and Fire Prevention Night on Tuesday, October 14th, from 6 PM to 8 PM at the firehouse, at the intersection of King and Monmouth Streets.

October is more than just a month on the calendar; it is honored as Fire Prevention Month throughout North America. Spearheaded by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), this observance aims to raise awareness about the importance of fire safety, particularly during Fire Prevention Week, which takes place during the first full week of October in remembrance of the devastating Great Chicago Fire of 1871. This month presents a crucial opportunity to educate our community on effective fire safety practices to help prevent fires and safeguard lives and property.

The purpose of Fire Prevention Month is to raise public awareness about fire safety and promote life-saving fire prevention practices in homes and businesses. The observance began in response to the devastating Great Chicago Fire of 1871, leading to the establishment of Fire Prevention Week in 1922.
Fire departments and the NFPA provide educational resources, fire safety tips, and encourage practices like checking smoke alarms, creating escape plans, and practicing fire drills.

WHY OCTOBER WAS CHOSEN

The colder months are approaching, which can increase fire risks, especially with more heating and cooking. And, it serves as a crucial reminder to check smoke alarms, review family escape plans, and implement overall home and workplace safety measures.

In years gone by, the Gloucester City Fire Department proudly hosted a parade, on a Friday night, showcasing the heroism of all fire departments in the South Jersey area. The streets would come alive as each fire department paraded down Broadway, their shiny fire trucks gleaming under the streetlights, sirens wailing, and horns blaring in a joyful cacophony. It was a breathtaking sight to behold, filled with the camaraderie of firefighters and the excitement of the community! Following the parade, our dedicated volunteer fire department members would serve hearty hot dogs and refreshing beer to the participating firefighters, fostering a sense of unity and celebration among those who bravely protect our city. / Continue reading “GLOUCESTER CITY FIRE DEPT. ENGINE 51 OPEN HOUSE” →

Michael P. Murphy, of Runnemede, 66; Volunteer Fireman

Michael P. Murphy on March 15, of Runnemede, age 66.

Beloved son of the late Robert C. and May Elinda (nee Lloyd) Murphy Sr. Devoted brother of Agnes Knee (Gerald), Robert C. Murphy Jr. (the late Patricia), Thomas J. Murphy, Richard P. Murphy, Teresa A. Murphy, and David P. Murphy. Dear uncle of 7 and great uncle of 4. Loving nephew of Jack Lloyd

(Ethel) and Mary Lousie Burkhauser.

Michael was a volunteer fire fighter of Runnemede Station 75 for 50 years and an avid fisherman.

There will be a viewing from 7pm to 9pm on Friday and from 9:30am to 11am on Saturday at GARDNER FUNERAL HOME, RUNNEMEDE. Funeral service 11am at the funeral home. Interment St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Blackwood. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to American Cancer Society 1851 Old Cuthbert Rd Cherry Hill, NJ 08034.

*Comedy Night Beef & Beer April 3

The purpose of the Camden County Hero Scholarship and Camden County Detective\’s Association is to render financial and educational assistance to the surviving spouse and children who are left with little or no support, when a law enforcement officer, firefighter or emergency medical person loses his/her life or is totally and permanently disabled in the line of duty.

https://www.camdencountyhero.com

Authorities Search for Suspect Allegedly Behind Collingswood Home Invasion and Fire

Camden City, N.J.(February 23, 2020)– – Investigators are searching for a man who reportedly broke into a Collingswood home, attacked one occupant and tied another victim up before setting the house on fire, according to Acting Camden County Prosecutor Jill S. Mayer and Collingswood Police Chief Kevin Carey.

Firefighters responded to a home on the 200 block of Crestmont Terrace just before 2:30 p.m. Feb. 23. After putting the fire out, firefighters found one victim suffering from injuries not caused by the fire.

After investigating, detectives learned a man allegedly broke in, attacked one victim and tied the other up while demanding money. He then set the house on fire before leaving, according to investigators.

One of the victims described the man as thin and darker-skinned with a short beard and dark hair wearing a yellow winter hat and a yellow and black zip-up sweatshirt.

Anyone with information on this case is asked to contact Camden County Prosecutor’s Office Detective Mike Batista at 856-676-8175 or Collingswood Police Sgt. William Lyons at 609-868-0266.

Tips may also be emailed to

ccpotips@ccprosecutor.org

Tips to Minimize Fire When Using Generators In Your Home

(NAPSI)—The fall and winter seasons bring cooler temperatures, holidays, and images of cozy nights by the fireplace. Yet the change in seasons also comes with the chance of severe weather and an increase in fire risks. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, more home fires occur in winter than in any other season.

“Holiday decorations, space heaters, generators, and fireplaces all present fire hazards if not properly used and maintained,” said Steve Hirsch, chair of the National Volunteer Fire Council. “Residents should be aware of the dangers and take the steps to make sure their families and homes are protected.”

Follow these tips to minimize home fire and safety risks:

• Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of the home. Test monthly to ensure they work.

• Install carbon monoxide alarms and test them at least once a month.

• Know where the gas, electric, and water main shut-off controls are and how to use them.

• Place fire extinguishers in the kitchen, garage, and living room, and make sure all household members know how to use them.

• Develop a home fire escape plan and practice it with the entire family.

• Keep portable generators outside and away from the home.

• Install a screen in front of each fireplace or wood stove. Store cooled ashes in a metal container outside the home.

• Have chimneys professionally inspected and cleaned every year.

• Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from fireplaces, radiators, space heaters, or other heat source.

• Never leave lit candles unattended, and keep them out of the reach of children and pets.

• If using a live Christmas tree, keep it adequately watered and get rid of it after Christmas or when it gets dry.

Residents can also take an active role in protecting their communities from hazards such as fires, medical emergencies, and much more. Fire departments across the country are looking for volunteers to serve as firefighters, EMS providers, and auxiliary members.

“The majority of firefighters in the U.S. are volunteers—neighbors helping neighbors in an incredible and rewarding way,” said Hirsch. “We need more people to answer the call to serve.”

Training is provided by the department, and volunteers can serve in a variety of roles, from providing life-saving emergency response services to conducting fire prevention programs and disaster preparedness planning.

Learn more and find a volunteer fire service opportunity by going to

www.MakeMeAFirefighter.org

Firefighters Want to Know More About Proposed Pennsylvania Fire Commission

By Steve Bittenbender |

The Center Square

A Pennsylvania House committee is weighing a measure that seeks to make changes in how fire and emergency services are administered in the state.

The Pennsylvania Legislature courtesy of The Philadelphia Inquirer

The House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee took up House Bill 1819, which would create a state Fire Commission.

State Rep. Austin Davis, D-McKeesport, the bill’s sponsor, said his district includes professional and volunteer-led fire departments that face issues regarding the ability to provide essential services and the ability to recruit and retain members.

“The communities I serve in southeast Allegheny County are facing many of the same challenges in the delivery of fire and emergency medical services that we’re witnessing across this commonwealth,” Davis said.

He told the committee he’s watched as it passed more than 20 bills that have origins from the Senate Resolution 6 Report recommendations from 2018. But, while programs and incentives may offer relief, he said they don’t necessarily address the bigger, underlying problem that will allow communities to offer emergency services for years to come.

So, Davis’ bill seeks to make “a big structural change” to the way the state organizes its support for local emergency service agencies. It would take the Fire Commissioner’s office and make it a 13-member commission that would include state fire chief – who would take over the duties of the commissioner.

Eight of the commission members would come from geographic districts within the state. The governor would appoint and the state Senate would confirm them. While the chief would serve as the chair of the commission, the chief would only vote to break a tie.

While Davis’ bill drew support from the firefighting community, they did offer the committee some recommended changes to the bill.

State Fire Commissioner Bruce Trego expressed concern about the power structure between the chief and the commission.

“Having the commission serve in an advisory capacity would allow the commissioner to continue serving the commonwealth Fire Service,” Trego said. “The commission would be able to provide the commissioner with recommendations for the future of the fire service but provide the commissioner with the authority to decide on the appropriate actions.”

Trego added current law allows for a Fire Safety Advisory Committee. While that committee hasn’t been functional in several years due to funding issues, Trego said it could handle some of the responsibilities set out in Davis’ bill.

Trego also had concerns about the geographic makeup of some of the districts, which he felt may be too large.

Jay Delaney, chief of the Wilkes-Barre Fire Department and the president of the Pennsylvania Career Fire Chiefs Association, did not like that the proposed commission includes representatives from business and industry, architectural firms and insurance companies.

“Private industry representation should not be part of the independent fire commission,” he said.

State Rep. Frank Farry, R-Feasterville, who chairs the committee’s subcommittee on security and emergency response, said he appreciated getting the insights from the firefighting community on the bill.

“I think the testimony was fairly consistent in terms of some proposed changes that probably need to be made to this bill,” Farry said.

published by Gloucestercitynews.net with permission of

The Center Square

Tabernacle Fire Co. Receives Grant from SJ Gas

TABERNACLE, NJ (February 18, 2020)—-South Jersey Gas recently presented a $4,681 grant to Tabernacle Fire Company No. 1 as part of its First Responders Grant Program. Pictured, from left, is Lauren Hurtt, Supervisor of Government Affairs with South Jersey Gas presenting the check to Kate Holden, Al Freeman and Chief Andy Cunard of Tabernacle Fire Company No. 1.

The grant funds, awarded in late-2019, were used by the fire company to purchase a thermal imaging camera and two gas detection meters.

“Our First Responders Grant Program provides crucial financial assistance to support operations, improve safety and provide training to departments throughout the South Jersey region,” said Dave Robbins, president of South Jersey Gas. “Through this investment, South Jersey Gas can help hardworking, courageous first responders and express gratitude for the work they do each day to ensure our communities remain safe. We are proud to partner with Tabernacle Fire Company No. 1 and commend them for their efforts.”

The thermal imaging camera and gas detection meters are vital safety tools that will aid the fire company in various situations. Thermal imaging cameras greatly enhance search and rescue capabilities in zero visibility environments, and gas detection meters gauge the levels of various types of gas, alerting the crew to atmospheric hazards so they can react accordingly.

The First Responder Grant Program will be offered again in November 2020. Program information and eligibility guidelines are available at southjerseygas.com/community.

Fire Destroys 70 Units at Somers Point Self-Storage Facility

mvitale

January 30, 2020/

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Firefighters put out hot spots Thursday afternoon at Sure Storage in Somers Point. (Photos courtesy Somers Point Fire Chief Jim Somers)

By MADDY VITALE

An early morning fire Thursday tore through a self-storage facility, Sure Storage, at 5 Chestnut Street, causing an explosion and the loss of about 70 storage units, Somers Point Fire Chief Jim Somers said.

“It looked like it started in one unit and spread quickly. It didn’t take much. It was really hot,” Somers said in an interview with SomersPoint.com, describing one of the buildings taken down to charred metal.

There were no reported injuries in the 4:22 a.m. fire.

“We did have an explosion on the second floor,” Somers said. “Thank God no one was in the building at the time.”

By 10:50 a.m., with the help of about 10 to 12 fire companies and about 75 firefighters, the massive blaze was under control, Somers explained.

“There were still a lot of hot spots and a massive cleanup,” he added.

Somers attributed the safe extinguishment of the fire to the professional and quick actions of the firefighters.

“Everybody worked hard. Our guys are well-trained. Nobody was standing around. Not only did we have heavy fires of the units, but we had to cut the doors open,” Somers said. “It was a lot of work to get to the fires.”

The fire was fought from the exterior. It was too dangerous to enter the building, he said.

“The building was too compromised, so it was more of a defensive operation — surround it and drown it,” he said. “We had to call in a backhoe to rip off the outer sheeting of the second floor to get in there.”

The New Jersey Division of Fire Safety was on scene Thursday afternoon to investigate the cause of the fire.

“They are taking care of the investigation. They got it down to where the fire started,” Somers explained.

Although the cause has yet to be determined, Somers pointed out, “People put stuff in there they aren’t supposed to.”

Somers Point Mayor Jack Glasser said in an interview that he arrived at the scene early and saw firsthand how hard the firefighters worked to put out the blaze.

“I was there this morning, I’m very grateful to our fire department and the departments from the surrounding towns that responded and helped fight this fire,” Glasser said. “Our emergency management, police and Egg Harbor Township Rescue Squad all did an outstanding job working together to contain this fire. As the mayor, I am very proud and thankful to all.”

In addition to Somers Point Fire Companies No. 1 and No. 2, there were multiple fire departments that assisted, including from Linwood, Northfield and Egg Harbor Township.

About 75 firefighters work together to get the fire under control.

SOURCE SOMERS POINT