Summit Fire Department Forms Special Operations Unit

SUMMIT, NJ — The City of Summit Fire Department is announcing the formation of a special operations division that will encompass the specialty disciplines of hazardous materials response and technical rescue.

The unit is trained to deal with chemical spills, gas leaks and other situations involving hazardous materials. It conducts confined space, trench or high angle rescues that involve the use of ropes and rappelling techniques. The division also stands by in a “ready” status for all Overlook Hospital helipad transports.

“We are extremely pleased to launch the special operations unit and provide additional service and support for Summit’s residential and business community,” explains Summit Fire Chief Eric Evers. “Our firefighters are trained to provide expert response in the most challenging situations. With a special operations unit, we now have the advanced skills and tools to best mitigate any of these possible hazards.”

Multiple vehicles and technical rescue equipment for the Special Operations division was donated by Celgene Corporation.

“We recognize the potentially significant impact that providing support for Celgene’s two Summit campuses will have for the Summit Fire Department,” reports Celgene Executive Vice President Rich Bagger. “Our donation of vehicles and technical equipment will ensure that, if the need arises, the Summit Fire Department is able to respond in an efficient and effective way to Celgene and our entire Summit community.”

Chief Evers continues: “We appreciate the generous donation of technical resources from Celgene and know that its benefit will extend to the entire Summit community.”

For more information on the special operations unit and the Summit Fire Department, go to cityofsummit.org/fire.

— Submitted by Summit City

(Image via City of Summit Fire Department)

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.

Get Patch breaking news alerts sent right to your phone with our new app. Download here.