https://www.iafflocal735.org/wp-content/uploads/2.webp
500
500
Mike Bullis
https://www.iafflocal735.org/wp-content/uploads/logo.webp
Mike Bullis2025-01-13 19:13:362025-05-14 16:02:40‘You will make a difference’: Bethlehem welcomes 7 new firefighters to the ranks
https://www.iafflocal735.org/wp-content/uploads/2.webp
500
500
Mike Bullis
https://www.iafflocal735.org/wp-content/uploads/logo.webp
Mike Bullis2025-01-13 19:13:362025-05-14 16:02:40‘You will make a difference’: Bethlehem welcomes 7 new firefighters to the rankssign up for our newsletter
Our Mission Statement
Bethlehem Firefighters IAFF Local 735 is dedicated to improving the safety, working conditions, and overall well-being of our members. We are committed to advocating for fair wages, hour, and benefits, while promoting unity and collective bargaining rights at all levels. Our mission includes fosteringstrong relationships amoung our members and enhancing the public’s understanding of the vital role we play in protecting our comminity. Together, we strive to ensure the highest of standards of service and saftey for both our firefighters and the citizens we proudly serve.
How we operate
Local 735 serves four platoons on a rotating schedule: two 9-hour day shifts followed by two 15-hour night shifts, then four days off. Union members attend meetings while off-duty to stay involved and informed. We’re also proud to support our community through public events, charitable drives, and local outreach efforts.
The City of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, is a city rich in history and cultural significance. Covering an area of approximately 19 square miles, and it is home to a diverse population. One of Bethlehem’s most notable events is Musikfest, the nation’s largest free, non-gated music festival. In 2023, Musikfest celebrated its 40th anniversary with a record-breaking attendance of 1,330,000 people, featuring over 450 performers from 26 states and eight countries.
EMS in the Local
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) is a critical component of public safety—when seconds count, our community depends on a rapid, skilled response. Since 2007, all members of our department have been required to hold EMT certification in order to meet Quick Response Service (QRS) standards.
While our firefighters do not staff ambulances directly, we support EMS operations in other essential ways. Ambulances are housed at Stations 1 and 6, and our personnel are responsible for driving these units to the hospital when needed. This integration was designed to expand coverage across a broader area of the city, enhancing service availability for residents.
At this time, paramedics are not represented under IAFF Local 735.
Bethlehem’s Recruits at Graduation ... See MoreSee Less
3 CommentsComment on Facebook
Today, the Allentown Fire Academy Class 25-01 graduated. There is a special thank you to the Allentown Fire Academy, its staff, Allentown Fire Department, Allentown Paramedics, and the City of Allentown for training our new firefighters at a world class level.
Another thank you to the citizens and community leaders for continuing to support your firefighters! Your voices and advocacy play a vital role in helping us address the challenges we face, and we’re grateful for your ongoing commitment to public safety. Together, we’re building a stronger, safer future.
A final thank you goes to our City of Bethlehem for hiring these top tier individuals to join our ranks.
Congratulations to all of the members of AFA 25-01.
Local 735 will be swearing in our 7 graduates later this month. We cannot wait to call you all brothers.
#bethlehemsbravest #ppffa #local735 City of Bethlehem Fire Department ... See MoreSee Less
6 CommentsComment on Facebook
... See MoreSee Less
This content isn't available right now
When this happens, it's usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it or it's been deleted.1 CommentsComment on Facebook
Doing right by our members means showing up, speaking up, and standing together. Whether it’s fighting for better staffing, advocating for cancer screenings, or making sure every voice is heard, Local 735 remains committed to putting our members first.
We don’t take this responsibility lightly, and we’ll continue to do the work to ensure our firefighters have the support, resources, and respect they deserve.
#IAFF #PPFFA #Local735 #UnionStrong #BethlehemsBravest 🚒🇺🇸 ... See MoreSee Less
Bethlehem firefighters are pioneers for state's first esophageal precancer testing
trib.al
Data from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health shows firefighters face a 62% higher risk of developing esophageal cancer and a 39% increase of dying from it. A two-minute test cou...0 CommentsComment on Facebook
It is with profound sadness that the members of Local 5004 announce that Master Firefighter April Lubenetski, a 24 year veteran of the department, has died in the Line of Duty (Occupational Cancer) on 19MAY2025. Despite the tirelesss efforts of her dedicated team of medical professionals, her nearly year long battle with occupational cancer ended this evening, surrounded by family and friends.
April has dedicated more than two decades of her life serving the citizens of Emmaus & surrounding areas of Lehigh County. During her tenure, April served with steadfast courage, unwavering determination, and honor. Her character, compassion, and dedication to her fellow firefighters shall never be forgotten.
We ask the public to keep Captain Shawn Lubenetski & the entire Lubenetski Family in their thoughts and prayers during this tragic time. We stand together to mourn the loss of a true hero and amazing woman.
Details of services will be forthcoming. ... See MoreSee Less
1 CommentsComment on Facebook
Yesterday, members of the Technical Rescue Team took full advantage of the weather to sharpen their skills.
From rope systems to confined space setups, our special operations team trains regularly to ensure they’re ready to respond at a moment’s notice. Their commitment to continuous improvement helps keep our community safe during some of the most challenging emergencies.
#IAFF #PPFFA #Local735 #BethlehemsBravest 🚒🇺🇸 ... See MoreSee Less
1 CommentsComment on Facebook
Today, members of IAFF Local 735 visited the Allentown Fire Academy to meet with our cadets who are nearing graduation. During the visit, we had the opportunity to speak about the mission of the IAFF, the Pennsylvania Professional Fire Fighters Association (PPFFA), and our own Local.
We also fielded questions about the job, life in the fire service, and the importance of union solidarity. It was a valuable moment to connect, educate, and support the next generation of firefighters.
We’re proud to report that the Bethlehem Firefighters continue to maintain a 100% Union Local, a tradition we’re committed to preserving for generations to come.
#IAFF #PPFFA #Local735 #UnionStrong #BethlehemsBravest #Solidarity 🇺🇸🚒 ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
... See MoreSee Less
1 CommentsComment on Facebook
May is Mental Health Awareness Month
IAFF Local 735 stands in solidarity with all those who face mental health challenges especially our brothers and sisters in the fire service. As firefighters, we are trained to run toward danger and remain calm in the chaos. But behind the uniform, we carry the weight of the calls we answer, the tragedies we witness, and the sacrifices we make.
Mental health is just as vital as physical health. We must continue to break the stigma, support one another, and speak up when things get heavy. No one should suffer in silence.
This month, and every single day, we must remind ourselves that it’s okay to not be okay. Help is available, and you are never alone. Let’s take care of each other. 🇺🇸🚒
#IAFF #Local735 #PPFFA #MentalHealthAwareness #YouAreNotAlone #FirefighterMentalHealth #PeerSupport #BethlehemsBravest ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook