TUCKERTON, NJ — Firefighters responded to a structure fire on Anchor Road last month that has raised questions about safety protocols and equipment standards.
Parkertown Fire Chief Frank Runza cancelled the first due engine from West Tuckerton Fire Company during the incident, then had the next two trucks deploy lines.
The response has drawn attention to the Public Employees Occupational Safety and Health program’s enforcement of personal protective equipment requirements at structure fires in New Jersey.
PEOSH previously filed multiple complaints against Tuckerton Fire Company several years ago regarding safety concerns.
The Division of Fire Safety had used PEOSH complaints to support claims that the department was operating unsafely.
Local fire officials say PEOSH now appears to take a more relaxed approach regarding proper personal protective equipment being worn to structure fires.
The fire produced visible smoke, with orange coloring on the windows caused by reflection from the sun.
