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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
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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.
Since June, when the 25-01 class graduated, the new firefighters have been working on refining their driver/operator skills. They went through hours of driving each apparatus to ensure their confidence on the many streets, no matter how tight, in our lovely city.
The images attached are of the pump operator training. They had to flow multiple hand lines off the apparatus, as well as master streams and feed the arial. The classes from the academy taught them the math and methods required to do so without over pressurizing any of the multiple lines. We taught the ability to do so on our equipment.
Also seen below is the arial from Engine5 in use. The arial operator section requires the driver to understand how to position the apparatus in order to flow water, or be used to make access and rescues from buildings. These images do not show them setting up at a building, but they had plenty of fun doing that as well.
Thank you to the members who worked with the NEW GUYS to get them prepared for their responsibilities they now have as driver/operators. Congratulations to the brothers who have passed this milestone in their young careers.
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Yesterday at 0825, Engine 6, Engine 9, Engine 3, Ladder 2, Utility 1, and Utility 2 were dispatched to the report of an MVA with rollover and entrapment on Route 378. Crews quickly arrived on scene establised command, confirmed entrapment and swiftly extricated the Victim.
3rd Platoon working.
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Thank you, Legacy Unisex Barbershop and Salon for having us at your Back to School event.
It was an honor to join forces with amazing community partners Legacy Barbershop, and Nick's On Main who were handing out free backpacks and school supplies to local kids.
Strong communities are built when we work together. 💪🔥
#backtoschool #community #firefighter #northsidealive #bethlehem City of Bethlehem Fire Department ... See MoreSee Less
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Another 20 years gone by, another Brother to say goodbye. Martin Rosario served steady on D Shift during his career, spanning a solid 13-14 year tenure operating Engine 1 and finishing as the Ladder 1 driver/operator. His presence inspired many to be better men and firefighters alike, sometimes even just through simple words of wisdom and tricks of the trade.
Whether it was in the firehouse refining cooking techniques, learning the ins and outs of each apparatus, or helping new firefighters to master the basics on the fire ground; Martin helped us all to remember, there's always a bigger picture to step back and appreciate before getting lost in the weeds.
Thank you for your help, guidance, and service - we were lucky to have a friend and fellow firefighter as you, both on the trucks and across the ping pong table. Congratulations on the completion of your career, best of luck and safe travels as you navigate the ventures ahead!
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After 20 years of service, Brother Thompson has retired. He went to the Allentown Fire Academy as a part of Class 05-02. Serving many years on C Shift, most recently as the Engine 1 Hoseman. He was a great mentor and teacher to the probies that have come to work with him imparting his own take on how to do the job best.
He was a great fireman, but also great around the station. A humorous and kind hearted man who could always make the joke you need to lighten the mood. Brother Thompson also donated an organ during his time with the department showing his dedication to the well being of others.
Thank you for your service, and happy retirement!
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Congratulations, Ryan Preletz
We would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Ryan on the successful completion of his Eagle Scout project. Achieving the rank of Eagle Scout is an outstanding accomplishment and a true testament to your dedication, leadership, and commitment to serving others.
We are especially honored that you chose to support our department by designing and building a custom gear dryer for our members. This is an absolutely wonderful piece of equipment to have as it will play a vital role in helping us dry and maintain our gear more effectively, keeping our members safer and more prepared for the next call.
Ryan, we are proud of you not just for reaching for this milestone, but for the thoughtfulness and hard work you put into a project that directly benefits those who serve this community. Thank you for thinking of us. Your effort and generosity mean a great deal to all of us at Local 735. ... See MoreSee Less
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Earlier today, July 21, Engine 6 and Engine 9 on 1st Platoon and BEMS were dispatched to an MVA with roll over Route 22 Eastbound. Multiple vehicles were involved with a fuel leak.
Hazmat 1 was added to the call along with Hazmat Technicians from Ladder 1 and Engine 3. Crews worked to offload the fuel from the overturned vehicles, provide fire protection, and help the tow companies get the road way clear.
Thank you to all involved on this call. A lot of hard work and training was required to complete all tasks.
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🚒🚨TIME IS RUNNING OUT🚨🚒
Thinking about a career in the fire service? The City of Bethlehem is accepting applications for the 2025 Firefighter Civil Service Exam but not for much longer.
Application Deadline: August 1, 2025
Exam Date: August 23, 2025
Starting Salary (2026): $60,673
Represented by IAFF Local 735
Minimum Requirements:
-U.S. citizenship or naturalization
-18 years of age by August 1, 2025
-High school diploma or GED
-Valid driver’s license
-Must live within 15 miles of City Hall within 1 year of hire
Benefits include:
• 13 Paid Holidays
• 20-Year Pension
• Excellent Health Insurance
• Special Team Opportunities
• Educational Assistance
Apply today and become part of something bigger your community needs you.
Visit www.bethlehem-pa.gov/Fire/Recruitment or scan the QR code on the flyer to get started.
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NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS
The City of Bethlehem is seeking motivated individuals to join the Fire Department. The 2025 Firefighter Civil Service Exam is your chance to begin a rewarding career serving the community.
Apply: June 30 – August 1, 2025
Exam Date: August 23, 2025
Starting Salary (2026): $60,673
13 Paid Holidays, 20-Year Pension, Excellent Health Benefits, Special Team Opportunities (Technical Rescue, Hazardous Materials, Water Rescue, Bomb Squad), Educational Assistance
Members of the Bethlehem Fire Department are represented by IAFF Local 735.
Minimum Requirements:
-Must be 18 years of age by August 1, 2025
-U.S. Citizenship or Naturalization
-High School Diploma or GED
-Valid Driver’s License
-Must live within 15 miles of City Hall within 1 year of hire
Visit: www.bethlehem-pa.gov/Fire/Recruitment or scan the QR code to learn more and apply. ... See MoreSee Less
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