GRVAC Honored for Aid in Prospect St. Fire
By Michelle Hillock, EMT

On Wednesday, March 15, 2017, the Glen Rock Volunteer Ambulance Corps (GRVAC) was honored by both the Glen Rock Fire Department and the Glen Rock Borough Council for their instrumental role in providing care during the house fire on Prospect St. in Glen Rock on February 20, 2017.
The blaze began at a house on Prospect St. at around 7:45 pm, although firefighters within noted that it looked as though the fire had started well before. Ambulance rigs from Glen Rock arrived soon after they were dispatched, with mutual aid arriving near the same time. GRVAC Chief Ed Esposito noted that Hawthorne sent a rig to help, and Ridgewood sent two, all of which were vital in the success and health of all at the scene and the rehabilitation, in which EMS personnel make sure that all firefighters remain hydrated and safe, EMS stepping in and providing care if necessary.

Chief Esposito heard the mayday alert, "EMS! EMS! EMS!," seconds before word reached the crews, and warned Lieutenant John DeLaat, to "get ready, something bad is happening." With the help of Ridgewood EMS, all of the corps worked together to stabilize the two men in a rehabilitation area north of the fire, where they were helping other firefighters stay hydrated and fit to serve.
Chief Esposito noted that the two men were "off the scene within minutes," and transported to Valley Hospital in Ridgewood by Ridgewood EMS.  

Following the transport, the scene quieted down until the fire was eventually extinguished. Thanks to the help of fire crews from Ridgewood, Hawthorne, Midland Park and Fair Lawn.
On March 15th, the Mayor and Borough Council presented a plaque (pictured above) to the GRVAC which reads. "With thanks to the GLEN ROCK VOLUNTEER AMBULANCE CORPS for their assistance in Glen Rock on February 20, 2017. The bravest are surely those who have the clearest vision of what is before them, glory and danger alike, and yet notwithstanding go out to meet it."
In speaking with Chief Esposito afterward, he could not provide an update on the status of the two Ridgewood firefighters due to the privacy and security rules of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA); however, he did note that he has already implemented a quick reaction team, which will continue to be developed further. Lieutenant DeLaat shared that the lesson he learned was to "expect the unexpected, and always keep your cool."
Chief Esposito also noted there was, "Good [GRVAC] member attendance at the Borough Council's recognition ceremony on March 15th, and the GRVAC officers extend appreciation to our members who were unable to attend the ceremony."

Chief Ed Esposito, pictured above, receiving an award from the Borough of Glen Rock's Town Council.

"The bravest are surely those who have the clearest vision of what is before them. Glory and danger alike, and yet now withstanding, go out to meet it".... The GRVAC thanks the town of Glen Rock!

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