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OCTOBER, 2020
GUILDERLAND CENTER FIREFIGHTERS BATTLE COMMERCIAL FIRE
SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY
On September 4, 2020 at 4:29 P.M., the Guilderland Center Fire Department with Guilderland, Altamont, Fort Hunter, Westmere, and North Bethlehem Fire Department for rehab was dispatched to 4773 Western Turnpike for a reported structure fire. - See full story on page 10
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October, 2020
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
Divers preparing to deploy from boat launch.
C.KRUEGER PHOTOGRAPHY
Swimmer Down in Washington County BRIAN BATES
Washingtonville Fire Department Responds to MVA Down Imbankment On the morning of Thursday, September 10th, the Washingtonville Fire Department responded to a report of an MVA at the infamous "S" turn on Tuthill Road. When they arrived they found a car down the embankment about 25 feet. The occupant was out standing on the shore of the creek with a passerby who stopped to help her. Two of the members lowered themselves down to the patient and made contact with her. I requested the county's tech rescue team just in case we ran into any problems getting her up to the roadway. The two members packaged the patient in the stokes while the
JUMP TO FILE #091120103 rest of the crews from 580 and 581 used the 2:1 rope system to haul her up. This is the bag that we normally use for FAST calls. We were able to bring her up to the roadway using the ropes and a ladder prior to the arrival of the tech rescue team. Outstanding job by the guys who were there and worked on this. Thanks again to the crews of Rescue-Engine 580 and Heavy Rescue 581.
Multiple agencies responded from Washington and Saratoga Counties for a missing swimmer. Fort Edward Fire, Hudson Falls Fire, Washington County Public Safety with their drone UAS team, the State Police, State Police Helicopter, as well as the South Glens Falls and Corinth Dive Teams, and Saratoga County Fire Coordinator 3 helped search.
JUMP TO FILE #090720117 The victim went under the water and failed to resurface. Approximately ten minutes had went by before the bystanders called 911. Units were on scene quickly after the first page. The Fort Edward Fire Department's boat had
mechanical issues and would not start. The FE Fire Chief told his firefighters to command a nearby boat with the owner not in the area. The victim was not found as darkness closed in quickly. The State Police returned the following day and was able to locate the victim and bring closure to the family. - CONNOR KRUEGER
WHERE ARE THEY NOW? If you have photos you would like to see in our Where are they Now? feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
- BRIAN BATES
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CHUCK LOWE
Former Rescue 617 in Greenwood Lake, a 2007 HME Ahrens Fox, has been acquired by Chichester, New Hampshire. It was refurbished by Lakes Region Fire Apparatus and painted red before going in service as Rescue 2.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
October, 2020
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October, 2020
ADVERTISER INDEX Company
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MEMORIAL BOARD If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Memorial Board” feature please upload them on our website www.1RBN.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
23 1,36
Churchville Fire Equip
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Fire Districts of NY
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Garrison Fire Rescue
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North Eastern Rescue
THOMAS MARRA BOB KRAJICEK
New Paltz Fire Department sadly reports the passing of Past Chief Ronald Finigan. Ron's graveside service was held at the Ulster County Veteran's Cemetery, located in the New Paltz Rural Cemetery, on Sept. 9, 2020.
Dumpster Fire at Delmar Four Corners Fire crews were called to 406 Kenwood Ave for a dumpster fire at the Four Corners in Delmar at 2:00 P.M. on Sunday, August 2nd. Arriving units stated they had a dumpster fire that was well-involved. Kenwood Avenue was closed in the area while Delmar and Slingerlands firefighters were working on the scene. The fire was contained to the dumpster and did not spread to any nearby buildings.
Passing of Former Chief Michael D Grieco II of the Cronomer Valley Fire Department.
BOB MCCORMICK
9
Specialty Vehicles
11
VCI
24
CORPORATE INFORMATION
1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New York edition - Vol. 21 No. 10 - is published monthly, 12 times a year for $36 per year by Belsito Communications, Inc., 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. Periodicals Postage Paid at Newburgh, NY and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. No financial responsibility is assumed by this newspaper to publish a display, classified, or legal ad or for typographical errors except of reprinting that part of the ad which was omitted or in error. Omissions or errors must be brought to the attention of the newspaper during the same month of publication. Printed in Canada.
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Notice: The advertisements, articles, and letters contained in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of 1st Responder Inc. and Belsito Communications, Inc. Advertisements are sold pursuant to the “space available” and corresponding fee schedule. The mere fact that advertisements are contained in this publication does not express nor imply that 1st Responder Inc. and Belsito Communications, Inc. vouches for the credibility of the claims made in the advertisements or the representations expressed or implied in them.
BOB MCCORMICK BOB MCCORMICK
MVA With Entrapment
Salisbury Mills FD was dispatched to a MVA with entrapment at 20 Bethlehem Road on September 5th. Town of New Windsor Police and EMS arrived on scene. New Windsor EMS Command requested medivac to the scene. Salisbury Mills FD set up a landing zone off Diamond Court by Jackson Ave. Firefighters extricated the subject from vehicle. New Windsor EMS then transported the subject to the waiting Medivac after leaving the scene. Medivac was then enroute to Westchester Medical Center. New Windsor EMS transported a second subject to Montefiore St. Lukes Hospital. New Windsor Police are investigating the cause. The road was blocked off during the incident.
MVA With Possible Injuries Winona Lake FD was dispatched to a MVA at State Route 300 in area south of Meadow Hill Road on September 10th. Firefighters disconnected the battery on one vehicle and checked for fluids on roadway. Town of Newburgh Police and EMS were at the scene. One subject was being evaluated by EMS. Town of Newburgh Police are investigating the cause. Town Police and Winona Lake Fire Police directed traffic during the investigation.
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October, 2020
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In memory of those who gave all
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
1st Responder Newspaper honors and remembers emergency responders lost in the line of duty
New Jersey: Ronnie Cordero, 61 Rank: Assistant Chief Incident Date: April 1, 2020 Death Date: April 22, 2020 Fire Department: Little Falls Fire Department Initial Summary: On Wednesday, April 1, 2020, Assistant Chief Ronnie Cordero drove the fire department apparatus to a service call at a residence. During that call, the crew came in close contact with the homeowner who stated that his son tested positive for COVID-19. He also stated that he had just returned from the hospital with COVID-19 related symptoms. The following day, the homeowner was transported by EMS to the hospital where he tested positive for the virus. Some of the EMS and fire personnel that Assistant Chief Cordero came in close contact with during this call and other responses were then tested positive for COVID-19 antibodies. Assistant Chief Ronnie Cordero was hospitalized on Tuesday, April 14, 2020, and passed away on Wednesday, April 22, 2020, from the disease. West Virginia: Russell K. Roberson, 42 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: June 21, 2020 Death Date: June 21, 2020 Fire Department:Iaeger Vol. Fire Department Initial Summary: On Saturday evening, June 20, 2020, firefighters from the Iaeger Volunteer Fire Department, as well as several other departments, responded to the scene of a residential fire. On Sunday, June 21, 2020, firefighters again responded to the same residence for a possible rekindle. While at the scene, Firefighter Russell K. Roberson evacuated a home owner from a second residence that had started to burn. He became ill and while being transported to the hospital, passed away. The cause of his death has not yet been determined. Missouri: Ron Wehlage, Jr., 40 Rank: Fire Lieutenant/Fire Marshal Incident Date: June 27, 2020 Death Date: June 30, 2020 Fire Department: De Soto Rural Fire
Protection District Initial Summary: On Saturday evening, June 27, 2020, Fire Lieutenant/Fire Marshal Ron Wehlage, Jr., responded to a residential fire. After his work duty ended on Sunday morning, June 28, 2020, he returned home. On Tuesday, June 30, 2020, he did not show up for his next shift. Someone was sent to check on him and found Fire Lieutenant/Fire Marshal Wehlage deceased at his home from an apparent heart attack. Individuals attempted to contact Fire Lieutenant/Fire Marshal Wehlage on Sunday, June 28, 2020, but all attempts were unsuccessful. West Virginia: Jason Cuffee, 27 Rank: Firefighter/Medic Incident Date: July 19, 2020 Death Date: July 20, 2020 Fire Department: Charleston Fire Department Initial Summary: At approximately 2330hrs., on Sunday, July 19, 2020, Firefighter/Medic Jason Cuffee was working at the Charleston Fire Department, Station 3. When he failed to respond to a call, his coworkers became concerned and went to check on him. They found Firefighter/Medic Cuffee unresponsive. They immediately performed CPR, and was then transported to the hospital where Firefighter Medic Cuffee was pronounced deceased in the early morning hours of Monday, July 20, 2020. The cause of his death has not yet been determined.
Georgia: Justin Robinson, 50 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: July 14, 2020 Death Date: July 21, 2020 Fire Department: Haralson County Fire Departmen Initial Summary: On Tuesday, July 14, 2020, Firefighter Justin Robinson was at the scene of a motor vehicle accident performing extrication of injured patients. While at the crash site, he went into cardiac arrest. Crews immediately initiated life saving measures and Firefighter Robinson was transported to the local hospital, where he passed away on Tuesday, July 21, 2020.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
October, 2020
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Colonie Village Firefighters Make Fast Stop On House Fire on Rappel Drive On August 12, 2020 at 6:28pm, The Colonie Village Fire Department with Stanford Heights and the Fuller Road Fire Department was dispatch to 90 Rappel Drive for a reported kitchen fire. Multiple chiefs JUMP TO FILE# called in route to 090920110 the scene. The police department arrived on scene and had a smoke condition showing from the front of the house. The first arriving chief on scene had heavy smoke pushing from the front of the house and heavy smoke pushing from the back of the house. The chief relayed that he had a two-story raised ranch and a working fire. As additional fire chiefs arrived on scene, one chief made entry to the house and notified command that they had a well involved kitchen fire that was starting to spread out towards the hallway. The first arriving engine on scene immediately deployed a single hand line to the front door of the house. As firefighters made their way up the stairs they were able to remove a dog from the house Safely and handed it off to a neighbor to place into the yard. As firefighters made their way up the stairwell they were met with a heavy amount of heat and fire rolling over their head from the kitchen. With a quick aggressive sweep of the hand line and a push into the kitchen, firefighters were able to quickly knock down the heavy fire condition before it could spread to any other part of the house. Additional firefighters immediately arrived on scene And began to conduct overhaul. Firefighters began to conduct extensive overhaul in the kitchen area. Firefighters also set up a ventilation fan in the house to remove all of the smoke that had built up from the kitchen fire. Firefighters conducted a secondary search of the house which turned up negative. Firefighters remained on scene for about an hour and thirty minutes conducting extensive overhaul of the house. The Town of Colonies Fire Services were brought into the scene to conduct an investigation into what caused the fire. One firefighter sustained minor injuries on scene. Due to the quick actions of the firefighters on scene they were able to quickly bring the fire under control and prevent heavy damage to other parts of the house. - JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER
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October, 2020
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
Times They Are a’ Changing EMS ISSUE CHELLE CORDERO
One thing this pandemic has proven is both how vital a HEALTHY EMS system is to the welfare of our communities and how much the caregivers need our support, recognition, and compensation. Ambulance crews at all levels, private agencies, fire-based ambulance services, and volunteer companies have made the necessary move from being more than just pre-hospital caregivers mainly responsible for transport to out-of-hospital caregivers responsible for actual care. EMTs and paramedics need to be able to communicate dynamically with different people, for different needs, for different patients, each and every call. The Covid-19 pandemic has proven to be a “disrupter accelerator”. Suddenly our EMS providers were thrown into a different reality where decisions had to be made in the field regarding assessment and transport, healthcare at all levels was thrown into high-stress situations with little chance to recoup, emotions were tamped down as patient families said goodbyes to their loved ones knowing it might be the last time, and creative ways of communication were explored. Being suddenly thrown into this “New Normal” in health care emphasized the areas were improvement is needed as well as the adaptability of our healthcare professionals. A five-year study resulted in The 2020 EMS Trend Report. The report, which was produced in collaboration with Fitch & Associates and the National EMS
Management Association, and sponsored by Pulsara, covers a variety of topics including retention, medical director involvement and EMS pay and benefits. This study was completed in 2019 and before we were thrown so unexpectedly, and not so ready, into a pandemic of monstrous proportions. The biggest issues revealed were retention, safety, maintaining skills, low compensation, low recognition, and engagement with medical directors and management. Just a few years ago many seasoned EMTs and Paramedics actually recommended EMS as a career path for their children whereas now that number has dropped from approximately 81% to 61% in optimism about the career potential. When the Covid was declared a national emergency, everyone praised healthcare workers and most of what we saw as representative of that field were nurses and doctors leaving many feeling unappreciated. In addition to the potential illness exposure risk, physical assaults on EMS personnel have risen in the past and the current air of community riots and violence have put more providers into dangerous situations. Another issue that the study highlighted were the amount of managers versus leaders versus people in the field. A leader is defined as a supervisory role with field experience so that responders and leaders can actually relate and understand the realities of the job. A manager might be very good at what he/she does with books, forms and “sitting in a corner office” but does not necessarily have on-the-street experience. When an inexperienced manager makes a policy they may not have any realistic view as to how this policy can actually be implemented. A field supervisor can lead because he/she can understand many of the challenges the providers may face.
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Troy Firefighters Safely Remove One Dog, Multiple Cats, And Six Ducks From A Sixth Avenue House Fire On August 16, 2020 at 3:23 PM, the city of Troy’s Fire Department was dispatched to 167 6th Avenue for a reported structure fire. Engine Four, Engine One, Engine Six, Engine Two, Truck One, JUMP TO FILE# Truck Two, The Res- 090920108 cue Squad, and the Battalion chief was dispatched to the scene. The dispatcher notified all units responding they were taking multiple calls for heavy fire on the second floor of the building and with possible entrapment. Engine four arrived on scene and immediately transmitted the signal thirty and stated they had heavy fire pushing from the second floor windows. Engine four requested the second alarm to be transmitted as they were taking multiple reports of individuals trapped on the second floor. On the second alarm the City of Watervliet and the Watervliet Arsenal was brought into the city of Troy to provide mutual aid to the Troy Fire Department. Firefighters Immediately deployed a single hand line to the second floor where they were met at the top of the stairs with heavy fire pushing down the stairwells at them. Engine Fours pump operator charged the line and firefighters started to make an aggressive push into the apartment. Truck two’s crew immediately set up the ladder truck and went to the roof and begin cutting a vent hole. As engine one arrived on scene firefighters immediately began to conduct a primary search of the house and came up negative with anyone trapped in the building.
Engine fours crew was able to knock down all of the heavy fire within five minutes of arriving on scene. Firefighters continued knocking down all of the hotspots on the second floor. Firefighters while conducting their search discovered a dog and brought the dog outside to safety. Firefighters began to conduct their secondary search in the building and discovered they had cats on the third floor that were brought out safely
and six ducks. Firefighters administered EMS care to one person on scene that was overwhelmed by the fire. Fire investigators were brought in to conduct an investigation into what caused the fire. No civilians had to be transported to the hospital and all of the animals survived and are in healthy condition. No firefighters sustain any injuries on scene. - JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
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October, 2020
One BEER NC Deputy OK with Wrights Corners and Cambria handles head on Accident On August 11th, Wrights Corner’s Fire and Rescue along with Cambria Fire and Rescue responded to the report of a head on accident at 104 and Town Line Road. Original reports stated that a male was lying on the ground and the other car was off the JUMP TO FILE# road with the driver 081120104 still inside. This was the site of another serious accident just two weeks before when a driver almost ran underneath Mercy Flight. At this accident, on scene Fire Police took no chances shutting down traffic and diverting it away from 1st responders heading to the scene. The cars had impacted at a great enough speed to cause severe front end damage if not total to the vehicles. A number of Niagara County Sheriff deputies arrived on scene, including the on-duty road Captain. Cambria, and Wrights Corners first on scene EMS quickly evaluated the drivers in both vehicles, who appeared to have minor injuries. One Deputy took statements from two eyewitnesses at the scene, both stated about the same story. The small yellow car with the elderly male was stopped at the stop sign on Old Beebe road facing South. The other car was East on route 104 with the right away. They both stated the yellow car turned right, West onto route 104 and went directly into the wrong lane hitting the car head on. The impact sent the little car spinning back towards Old Beebe ripping down the stop sign and deploying the airbags. The other car spun off the road ripping down a number of signs on the south side of route 104. The Niagara County Sheriff Deputy asked the male in the small car if he had been drinking and he did reply, one beer. The Deputy performed a number of field sobriety test, including an alcohol sensor why the Captain looked on. After a discussion among the Deputies and Captain, the Deputy gave a thumbs up to the driver, and said, I’m good with one beer, thank you for being honest with us! Cambria EMS then went back to work on the male, who was now talking to a recently retired road Captain from the Niagara County Sheriff’s Department who showed up at the accident. The retired Captain went over and talked to the on- scene Captain, and the deputies. One deputy walked over to the other driver and told him that they ran test on the other driver who hit him. That the other driver admitted to having one beer. The driver of the car that was hit head on was waiting for his Dad to arrive to decide if he would go the hospital in the ambulance or get checked out later. Wrights Corners and Cambria cleaned the scene up and made the cars ready for the tow trucks. Cambria transported the elderly driver to the hospital to get checked out, Niagara County Sheriff’ Office investigated the accident. - STEPHEN WALLACE
STEPHEN WALLACE
Niagara County Sheriff deputy performs test on the driver as the Captain looks on
STEPHEN WALLACE
Cambia rolled engines and EMS to the scene and Fire Police shut down the road
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October, 2020
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
Guilderland Center Firefighters Battle Commercial Fire On Western Avenue On September 4, 2020 at 4:29 P.M., The Guilderland Center Fire Department with Guilderland, Altamont, Fort Hunter, Westmere, and North Bethlehem Fire Department for rehab was dispatched to 4773 Western Turnpike JUMP TO FILE# for a reported struc- 090920105 ture fire. Multiple fire chiefs called in route to the scene and the dispatcher notified them that the front porch of the building was on fire. Car seventyseven arrived on scene and had heavy smoke showing from the front of the building and declared the signal thirty for a working structure fire. The fire chief quickly made sure everyone was out of the structure. As the first arriving chief was making his safety walk around of the fire building, the fire rapidly began to grow and blow out all of the front windows of the structure. Heavy black smoke from the fire could be seen up to 15 miles away in the clear afternoon sky. The first arriving piece of fire apparatus on scene immediately pulled a two and half inch hand line and began to knock down the fire in the front of the house. With the heavy Cross breeze coming from the front of the house it quickly allow the fire to spread to the rest of the structure. The fire quickly began to blow out the back of the residence. Numerous other pieces of apparatus quickly arrived on scene and began to assist in knocking down the heavy fire condition. Firefighters set up the Ladder company in front of the building and began to use their master streams on the building. The Altamont Fire Department's engine company laid in there large diameter hose to the rear of the building and had their firefighters begin to knock down the heavy fire in the rear of the structure. Firefighters had a heavy fire condition for over 20 minutes on scene before they began to get the stubborn fire under control. Firefighters continue to conduct master stream operations around the house. Heavy smoke banked down around the firefighters on the ground and around the firefighters on the ladder truck. As a large majority of the heavy fire was knocked down, firefighters begin to approach the house and knocked down the fire inside of the structure. Firefighters remained on scene for a few hours conducting extensive overhaul of the destroyed building. No firefighters were injured on scene and the fire is currently under investigation at this time. - JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
October, 2020
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
NEVER FORGET
If you have photos you would like to see in our “Never Forget� feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
RANDY MONTOUR
Potsdam Fire Alerted for One Vehicle Rollover
At 5:08 P.M. on August 13th, Potsdam Fire was alerted for a one vehicle rollover in the parking lot of Mama Lucia's. Engine 49 responded and arrived on scene at 5:11 P.M. to find a Jeep on its side in the parking lot. All occupants were out of the vehicle and they were reporting no injuries. The vehicle was leaking a small amount of transmission fluid so firefighters put down speedy dry to soak it up. A wrecker was requested by Potsdam PD. Potsdam Fire was back in service at 5:31 P.M.
BOB KRAJICEK
New Paltz Fire Department, along with New Paltz Police, Ulster County Sheriff, and United States Marine Corp. members attended a Memorial service on September 11th, at the exact moments aircraft crashed into the Twin Towers in NYC. The Memorial is located on New Paltz Fire Dept. Station 2 property.
New Paltz remembers September 11, 2001.
BOB KRAJICEK
BOB MCCORMICK
Two vehicle accident, one subject pinned
On August 13th, New Windsor FD was dispatched to a serious motor vehicle accident with entrapment involved on Cedar Ave in area of Bradford Terrace. Town of New Windsor Police and Town of New Windsor EMS was also on scene. New Windsor Command requested Newburgh FD to the scene for their jaws. The subject was extricated from vehicle and transported to Montefiore/St Lukes Hospital by New Windsor EMS. Firefighters checked vehicles for hazards and assisted with removal of driver. New Windsor Police blocked Cedar at Bradford while the accident was being investigated. Helicopter was placed on stand by but canceled . New Windsor Police are investigating the cause.
City of Newburgh Fire Department September 11th Ceremony.
BOB MCCORMICK
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
October, 2020
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October, 2020
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
THOMAS MARRA
Firefighters battled an early-morning house fire that engulfed a home.
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Waterman Avenue Home Heavily Damaged By Fire Colonie, New York THOMAS MARRA
Early-Morning Fire Engulfs Home Fire crews battled an earlymorning house fire that engulfed a Feura Bush home in the early morning hours. Onesquethaw Fire and EMS was dispatched for a reported working structure fire at 97 Pangburn Road at 12:30 a.m. on Monday, August 17th. Chief Mike Salisbury of the Onesquethaw Fire Department says the first arriving officer arrived to find a single-story wood-frame structure fully-engulfed in flames. A signal 30 was dispatched and the glow from the flames could be seen for a few miles. "The building was 100 percent consumed when we got here," he said. "There was no entry made into the building." Salisbury believes the structure was recently sold and there were no occupants living in the home at the time of the fire. At first crews had some difficulty with water, according to Salisbury. Crews laid hose from the road and up a long neighboring driveway, where they drafted water from a pond on the property. Tankers from neighboring departments were brought in to help
JUMP TO FILE #082520111 transport the water. There was a power line that fell from the home and into the roadway. Chief Salisbury says National Grid had a quick response time and was able to shut the power off to ensure safety of those on scene. There was also a 1,000 gallon propane tank in the rear of the structure that provided some concern to firefighters. Chief Salisbury says it took approximately 30 minutes to get the bulk of the fire knocked down and under control. Responding with Onesquethaw Fire and EMS was New Salem, East Berne, Delmar and North Bethlehem fire departments, with another crew from Delmar on standby. Albany County Paramedics, Albany County Sheriff's Department also responded to the scene. The cause of the fire is still under investigation at this time. There were no reported injuries to anybody on the scene. - THOMAS MARRA
On August 16, 2020 at 2:55 AM, The Midway Fire Department, Town of Colonie Duty Crew, Colonie Village Fire Company, Stanford Heights and Niskayuna Fire District No.2 was dis- JUMP TO FILE# patched to 51 090920109 Waterman Avenue. The caller reported the back of the house was fully involved. Car sixteen arrived on scene and quickly declared the signal thirty for a working structure fire. Command had heavy fire pushing from the rear of the structure with the back deck fully involved along with the back of the house. Command reported the siding on the neighbors house was starting to catch fire. The duty crew engine, Stanford Heights, Colonie Village's Engines, Midway's Truck Company and engine quickly arrived on scene and deployed multiple hand lines into the structure. Firefighters immediately made entry to the structure and began to conduct a primary search of the residence. Additional firefighters made an aggressive interior attack pushing the fire back out of the building. Firefighters used a hand line in the rear of the structure and began to knock down all of the remaining fire on the outside of the structure and cooling the siding on the neighbors house. Firefighters quickly were able to knock down all of the visible fire and bring the incident under control in less than 20 minutes. Firefighters conducted extensive
overhaul on scene for over an hour and a half. No firefighters were injured on scene and investigators were brought in to conduct the in-
vestigation into what caused the fire. - JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER
SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
October, 2020
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
Mount Kisco FD Responds to Balcony Collapse at Apartment Complex
BOB MCCORMICK
FD Holds Car Wash Good Will Fire Department held a car wash behind their firehouse on August 23, 2020. Members cleaned and dried vehicles from 9:00 A.M. until 2:00 P.M. Many residents of the Town of Newburgh took advantage of the cleaning.
On July 31, 2020, at 4:57 P.M., the Mount Kisco Fire Department was dispatched to 35 Stewart Place, Stewart Heights Apartments for a Balcony collapse, from the seventh floor to the sixth floor. Along with the Mount Kisco Fire JUMP TO FILE# Department, Mount 081220103 Kisco EMS, Westchester Paramedics, Westchester County Police were also on the initial dispatch. After determining that no one was trapped under the concrete, structure and rescue was not required, Chief David Hughes reached out to Westchester County Technical Rescue Team for assistance. Mount Kisco Fire was comprised of Engine 103, 104, 105, Tower Ladder 14, Rescue 15, 31, Utility 13 for this alarm. A crane was brought in to secure the structure and work with a contractor to remove the broken balcony and work with building inspectors & engineers to investigate what went wrong. Chappaqua's Tower Ladder along with Mount Kisco's Tower Ladder worked together to secure a wire rope under the sixth-floor balcony to support the weight until investigators and contractors were ready for the next phase of the stabilization process. Bedford Hills & Chappaqua Fire Department's stood by as Mount Kisco Fire Department operated at a very unusual event. All units cleared the scene at 11:45 P.M. No firefighters or civilians were injured at this alarm. - RICHARD T. HOOKER
DRILLS/TRAINING
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GARY HEARN
Washingtonville Responds to House Fire in Salisbury Mills Fire District Mountain Lodge Park, NY - Firefighters were dispatched on the morning of August 13th to a reported house fire in Mountain Lodge (Salisbury Mills Fire District), OrchardTrail, at 7:15 A.M. Washingtonville Tanker 577 responded. The chauffeur supplied SMFD Engine 549. The crew was split conducting interior truck operations and roof ventilation.
Multiple fire agencies teamed up to hold a water supply drill in New Salem.
THOMAS MARRA
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
October, 2020
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
WORKING FACES
If you have photos you would like to see in our “Working Faces” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
Footprints on the Heart Chaplain's Corner Didymus McHugh
The crew of Washingtonville FD Tanker 577.
GARY HEARN
EMERGENCY AIRCRAFT
If you have photos you would like to see in our Emergency Aircraft feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
BOB MCCORMICK
Cronomer Valley Dive Team was dispatched to 1281 River Road to assist the Coast Guard with a Partially submerged boat -Global Corporation-on August 18th. Cronomer Valley Car two requested Hudson River Response Plan to be activated. Monroe dive team was dispatched, West Point, Middlehope, and Cornwall on Hudson responded with their boats. Vessel was located, West Point and Middlehope set up a perimeter. New York State Police boat and dive team arrived at scene and the matter was turned over to them.
It is not the what that is important but the who. I feel like I spent my life around a firehouse all my life, at least since I was two years old. I may not remember everything about every time that I was there, but I remember how my uncles made me feel. They spent time with me and I cannot for the life remember what we did, except the feeling around Christmas and the summer picnics. But the uncles made sure that they spent time with the children and made our time special. The other day I noticed some children who were being lifted up by their parents so that they could see the fire engine through the windows. I pulled the engine out of the bay. I showed the boys around the engine and turned on the lights. The boys were so happy. When I got home I saw a large toy fire truck that I was going to get rid of. I brought it down to the station to give to the boys. After a few days, the family came back and I asked the parents if I could give it to the boys. The parents agreed and then it all happened. Their faces lit up with smiles and their eyes were so wide open. One of the boys stopped whatever he wanted to do and got down on his knees and starting playing with the toy right on the driveway. The family will never remember who I am. They may not remember what town but they may remember the feeling that they had while they were with me for a short time. When we spend time with the children, they may not remember us but they may remember the feeling. Kids may remember that firemen make them happy. They may remember the care that a police officer had for them. The lol-
lipop that he would always get from the doctor for a great check up. People will remember the time that you spent with them. You may have listened to someone who was having a really bad day. You may have helped the little old lady down the street, bring in her trash cans. The veteran who may be in the veterans’ home may not remember your name but they know that they like you. I remember my mentors in life and how I was appreciative for their time and their constant words of encouragement and caring they had for me. I remember how some teachers were caring and became friends of my family. I remember my friend in Georgia who always made time for me and my daughter. I cannot remember everything that we did but I can remember how they made me feel. People may not always be with us but the impression that they leave on our life will always be there, be it positive or negative. There is a saying that I heard, I forget where it comes from, we are blessed to see everyone. Some people bless us when they come into the room and others bless us when they leave the room. What kind of impression are you leaving? Are we the type of people that leave footprints on someone’s heart and they always want to have those footprints? When I teach new chaplains, a question that is always asked of them is “how do you know that you have made a difference with the person that you were with?” The answer is that we never know what type of impression we have on anyone’s life. The conversation and time that we spend with people are the seeds that we are planting. We may never see the harvest of those seeds but we are not supposed to. Stay safe,
Didymus McHugh didymus-mchugh.com
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October, 2020
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
NYSVARA Pulse Check 2020 Went VIRTUAL Like so many areas of our lives in the past few months, we’ve had to adjust to social distancing and COVID era precautions… and this certainly presented a challenge for the NYSVARA organizers of Pulse Check 2020. But they really stepped up and still made it UMP TO FILE# happen in a big J091320100 way! According to Teresa A. Hamilton, NYSVARA’s Executive Vice President and Pulse Check Conference Chair, they realized as far back as March “the significant influence of the pandemic on large gatherings” and knew their conference was in serious jeopardy. “Following several calls with our conference committee, education committee and Grey Goose Graphics-our production company we made the decision to go virtual the first week of June”. For decades the conference had only been an in-person event. There were concerns about changing the format so drastically noting that a lot of the attraction of previous conferences was the face-to-face interaction and networking. “Going Virtual required several changes in programming which our production company was instrumental in helping us reformat the conference which typically is held over a four-day period into a single day virtual event. We immediately recognized that many people are already ‘Zoomed Out’ and the event would have to be formatted to keep viewers’ attention.” Ms. Hamilton explained, “Outside of the educational component, many activities such as our banquet, youth drill competition and our youth workshop and vendor displays were eliminated from the event. However we did have some steadfast vendors who supported our conference with sponsorships.” Calling their educational team “an awesome collective of the best-of-the-best” she explained how their presenters “all stepped up without hesitation” and modified where needed to fit into the new format. The presenters came from backgrounds which included decades of EMS, healthcare, firstresponse experience and multiple degrees. Participants got to learn from highly skilled clinicians and educators which included, Scot Phelps, Joel Warden, Jeff Myers, Dan Batsie, Jason Haag, Steve Kroll, Jennifer Salomon, Douglas Wildermuth, Drew Anderson, Travis Howe, Samantha Greene, Mike McEvoy, and Bruce Barry. The First-Ever-Virtual-Pulse-
Check conference was held Saturday, September 12 via ZOOM and was televised from the Albany Marriot under the direction of John Hussar of Grey Goose Graphics Production Company and Management team. More than 600 participants registered from across New York State and took advantage of the education and CMEs provided. The committee also agreed that “that with many families financially impacted by the pandemic, this is the year that NYSVARA and the event sponsors give back to our EMS community” and the event was offered at no cost to the attendees. The event opened with the Keynote address ‘The Future of EMS’ presented by Scot Phelps, JD, MPH, Paramedic Director, and Paramedic Emergency Health Science Degree Program Union County College. Several topics followed and included highly informative and very relevant topics such as: EMS Agency Collaboration; Pelvic Injuries; Facial Trauma; Continuity of Agency Operations; Patients and Cannabis; Trauma, and the Secondary Effects of Danger in EMS; Conflict Resolution; Mental Status Exams; Vascular Zebras; ETOH Patients; CPAP Tips; Human Trafficking; and Pediatric Respiratory Failure. The program also presented the annual awards ceremony and memorial service by prerecording presentations and webcasting those videos during the lunch break and immediately following the afternoon educational session. The 2020 sponsors that helped to make this unique conference available included: ProClaim EMS Solutions & Billing; E5 Support Services, LLC; Elmont Fire Department; Good Samaritan Hospital; Grey Goose Graphics, LLC; Huntington Community First Aid Squad; Middle Island Fire Company; NYSVARA DISTRICT 1; NYSVARA DISTRICT 7; NYSVARA DISTRICT 12 Instructors; Public Safety Check by g3Coding; Quick Med Claims; SeniorCare EMS; Tour 3 Systems; and Second Chance Safety LLC. The Pulse Check Committee and Grey Goose Graphics created a format that facilitated “commercial breaks” to provide significant sponsor exposure. Theresa said that discussions are already underway for Pulse Check 2021 and there is consideration being given to the possibility of a hybrid or virtual component. There will be many decisions to be made, but this year’s program has already proven to be a huge success.
BY-LINES
Teresa A. Hamilton, NYSVARA Executive Vice President & Conference Chair conducts the annual Pulse Check Memorial Service online
PULSE CHECK
The first presentation of the day, Scot Phelps gave the keynote presentation, “The Future of EMS”
- CHELLE CORDERO
PULSE CHECK
How it looked from the presenter's view. Don Batsie gave his lecture about managing pelvic injuries.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
October, 2020
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October, 2020
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
PAgE 23
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PAGE 24
October, 2020
Bob Long
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
APPARATUS IN ACTION If you have photos you would like to see in our “Apparatus in Action” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
FRANKIE VERDERAME
BrookHaven Fire Department Rescue 3 on scene of an Automatic Fire Alarm (AFA).
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Kochek and AWG Team Up to Deliver Outstanding Valve Quality Kochek Company, LLC has announced its new alliance with AWG Fittings GmbH. The two companies have partnered to provide Kochek loose equipment dealers with the superior performance and reliability for which AWG valves are known throughout the industry. As Kochek's primary supplier of several sizes of gate, ball, intake, hydrassist, manifold, siamese, and pressure relief valves, AWG plays an important role in Kochek's efforts to ensure the continued satisfaction of its dealers and customers. With every order, Kochek custom fits each valve to exacting specifications. Kochek President and CEO, George J. Wessner, said of the relationship with AWG, "We're thrilled to work with AWG to make this quality possible for our
customers. They rely on their Kochek equipment when it matters most, and our valve performance is something they can always count on in the field."
About Kochek Headquartered in Putnam, CT, Kochek Company is a leading producer of water movement products for fire, water works, and irrigation markets throughout North America and abroad. In order to achieve its mission to manufacture and deliver the highest quality products at competitive prices, Kochek follows the guiding principles of lean manufacturing. More information about Kochek and the company's entire product line may be found at www.kochek.com. - PROVIDED
WHERE ARE THEY NOW? If you have photos you would like to see in our Where are they Now? feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
FRANK ROBINSON
Thornwood Fire Department once ran this 1976 Mack CF 1250/500. The unit is now privately owned.
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Say it with me now...KEEN Wah! FORK & HOSE CO. a Food Blog by A.J. Fusco
BOB MCCORMICK
Cement Truck Roll Over Maybrook FD was dispatched to a cement truck roll over at 340 Neelytown Road in Montgomery on September 1st. New York State Police and Orange County Sheriffs were on scene. The cement truck was off the roadway on its side. Maybrook firefighters secured the scene and stood by for heavy duty wreckers to upright the truck. Sheriff Deputies handled traffic on roadway, and State Police Commercial Enforcement Vehicle Team members were on scene. New York State Police is investigating the accident.
So in case you missed it or didn’t know, quinoa is pronounced KEEN-wah. If you have been living under a rock, you wouldn’t know that this ancient “grain”/superfood has become extremely popular over the last few years. And while its popularity is in its infancy here in the United States, historical evidence puts its domestication for human consumption 34 thousand years ago in Peru and Bolivia. But perhaps its biggest misconception is that it isn’t actually a grain at all. In fact, quinoa is the seed from a flowering plant in the amaranth family. It is more closely related to spinach than say rice. Because of this, it is a gluten-free food, which makes it
Serves 2-4
perfect for those with gluten allergies. Many recipes that contain grains such as wheat, rice and barley can easily be substituted with quinoa. They even make quinoa flour for baking! So now that we have the pronunciation down, let’s talk about cooking with quinoa. In the firehouse, I have found that it's hit or miss when it comes to putting out a successful meal using this delicious ingredient. Those who haven’t tried it are often reluctant just based on the name alone. And some just don’t like the texture, like when one of my partners said it felt like he was eating sand, which I find to be a little bit of an exaggeration. The great thing about quinoa is that while it certainly has its own flavor, it is mild enough to “play well in the sandbox” with other flavors, sort of like rice. It is delicious on its own, cooked in some chicken stock or seasoned water, but using it in other ways is where I find it to be more accessible to others
who may have not tried it. I have used it successfully in casseroles and stir-frys, but one of my favorite applications is to use it as a stuffing, like in this recipe for stuffed acorn squash. And it is seasonally versatile as well. While this acorn squash recipe is perfect for the fall, a cold quinoa salad with cucumber and tomato is delicious for the summer. Maybe use it in a Spring quinoa bowl with peas, lemon and mint. Or how about using it as a base for beef stew in the winter?! Seriously though, you get the idea. And besides its versatility, it is extremely healthy. In fact, a 2017 study in the Journal of Nutraceuticals and Food Science found that when compared to other cereals like wheat, corn and barley, quinoa has more protein and a greater balance of essential amino acids. Not only is it a good source of protein and fiber, it is full of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. It is no wonder this crop was so important to the Incan people!
QUINOA-CHICKEN SAUSAGE STUFFED ACORN SQUASH
Ingredients:
DANIEL GONSKA
High Voltage Power Line Destroys Pickup Truck On August 27th, Allegany Fire Department was dispatched to a reported porch fire and vehicle fire near 22 North 2nd Street in the Village of Allegany. Upon arrival, AFD found a tree blocking the north end of the street and high voltage power wires were down on the ground, running under the pick-up truck. Heavy flames were found coming from the engine compartment of the truck. Firefighters were unable to extinguish the blaze due to the live high voltage power wires under the truck. National Grid was called to the scene to cut power. AFD used two dry chemical extinguishers to extinguish the blaze. Once the power was cut firefighters were able to gain access to the truck and put out the remaining hotspots. Units on scene included Engine 31, Ladder 169, Cattaraugus County Sheriff and National Grid. Allegany Fire Chief Stady had the command.
2 Acorn Squash, cut in half horizontally, seeds and stringy flesh scooped out. ½ lb. Chicken Sausage, casing removed ½ Apple, seeded and chopped ½ Onion, chopped 1 Garlic Clove, diced 4 Sage Leaves, diced 1 tsp. Paprika 1 tsp. Ground Cumin 3/4 Cup Dry Quinoa, cooked according to package 3/4 Cup Shredded White Cheddar Cheese, reserve half for garnish Salt, to taste EVOO Optional: Finely chopped chives for garnish
AJ FUSCO
• Add the cooked quinoa to the sausage mixture and stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning.
• Preheat oven to 400* F
• While the squash is baking, cook the quinoa according to the package and brown the sausage in a drizzle of EVOO in a medium saute pan. Using a slotted spoon, remove cooked sausage and set aside in a bowl.
• Place squash on a foil lined sheet pan, cut side down. Roast for 25 minutes or until soft. Remove from the oven.
• Add the garlic, sage and spices to the pan and cook until fragrant. Remove the onion-apple mixture and add it to the cooked sausage.
• Garnish with chives and serve.
Procedure:
• Trim both ends of the acorn squash off. Cut the squash in half horizontally and scoop out the seeds and stringy flesh. Drizzle with EVOO and a pinch of salt.
• In the same pan, add the onions and saute until lightly browned. Add the apples and saute until the apples start to soften.
• Add half of the shredded cheddar to the mix and stir. Place the cooked squash on the same sheet pan cut side up. Stuff with quinoa-sausage mix, top with more cheese and bake for another 15 minutes or until the cheese is browned.
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OCTOBER, 2020
MASTIC FD ARRIVES AT MVA TO FIND VEHICLE ON FIRE
JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS
Mastic, NY - On the evening of Wednesday, August 5th, at about 6:05 P.M., the Mastic Fire Department and Mastic Ambulance were activated for a two vehicle crash on Boxwood Dr & Moriches Middle Island Rd.
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CORPORATE INFORMATION 1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New York edition - Vol. 21 No. 10 - is published monthly, 12 times a year for $36 per year by Belsito Communications, Inc., 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. Periodicals Postage Paid at Newburgh, NY and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. No financial responsibility is assumed by this newspaper to publish a display, classified, or legal ad or for typographical errors except of reprinting that part of the ad which was omitted or in error. Omissions or errors must be brought to the attention of the newspaper during the same month of publication. Printed in Canada.
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JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS SABELLA/ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY 2020
Driver Arrested Passenger Rushed To Hospital Farmingville, NY - On Wednesday night, September 9th, a driver left the roadway and slammed head on into a tree. The impact sent the passenger face first into the windshield rendering him unconscious. Farmingville firefighters removed the passenger then rushed him to a local hospital for treatment of serious injuries. The driver failed several field sobriety tests, was cuffed and taken into custody.
PUBLICATION CONTENT Notice: The advertisements, articles, and letters contained in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of 1st Responder Inc. and Belsito Communications, Inc. Advertisements are sold pursuant to the “space available” and corresponding fee schedule. The mere fact that advertisements are contained in this publication does not express nor imply that 1st Responder Inc. and Belsito Communications, Inc. vouches for the credibility of the claims made in the advertisements or the representations expressed or implied in them.
Driver Flees After Brookhaven Crash Destroys Two Vehicles Brookhaven, NY - On Saturday, August 29th, at 1:10 P.M., the Brookhaven FD and South Country Ambulance responded to a report of a vehicle crash on Montauk Highway, west of the dog park. Rescue 3, Rescue 4 and Fire Police Units 15 & 19 responded under the command of Chief DiPinto. On Arrival, Chief DiPinto advised he had a two-vehicle crash with heavy damage and heavy fluid spill. Firefighters secured both vehicles. Crews from both rescue trucks were also directed to use their speedy dry to clean up as much fluids as they could from the ground. South Country Ambulance checked out two people who refused transport to the hospital. The road was closed for an extended period as K-9 was called in to search for a person who reportedly fled the scene on foot. Suffolk County DPW was requested to bring additional sand/speedy dry to the scene.
Additional news from Long Island can be found on our website at www.1rbn.com
JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS
Brookhaven FD Makes Quick Work of Vehicle Fire Shirley, NY - On September 1st, at about 4:50 P.M., the Brookhaven Fire Department was activated for a report of a vehicle fire on Southbound William Floyd Parkway, south of Dawn Drive. Assistant Chief Dan DiPinto arrived on scene and found the engine compartment well involved in flames. Engines 5-3-8 & 5-3-9 were quickly put on the road on a rush along with Fire Police 15 & 19. The Chief requested fire police to shut down William Floyd at Dawn Drive and redirect traffic. On arrival, the crew from Engine 8 quickly stretched a line and made an offensive attack. Engine 9 backed them up as well as assisted with blocking the right lane. Firefighters were able to knock down the fire with the units that were on scene. The occupant of the vehicle was not injured and was able to retrieve some of his belongings from the vehicle prior to the tow truck arriving on scene. The road was closed for about 30 minutes while firefighters and police were on scene working.
SABELLA/ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY 2020
Two Seriously Injured in Head On with Tree
On Tuesday night, September 1st, just after 9:30 P.M., a car with two people in it lost control on West Bartlett Rd. in Middle Island onto the golf course at Spring Lake. Firefighters from Gordon Heights were able to remove both patients from the car after it went through a fence and through a fire hydrant before hitting a tree head-on. There was serious injuries and the patients were rushed to the local trauma center for treatment. SCPD closed the roadway for an investigation involving the 6th squad and crime scene.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
October, 2020
PAGE 29
LONG ISLAND
Family Sent to Hospital After High Levels of CO Mastic, NY - On the evening of Friday, August 7th, at about 11:05 P.M., the Mastic Fire Department and Mastic Ambulance were activated for a reported medical emergency on Floyd Rd. North off Somerset. Chief Rudy Sunderman and Lieutenant Sunderman were the JUMP TO FILE# first two members 081620100 on scene. On arrival, they found high C.O. readings coming from the home and went to work to evacuate the residents. They had found one person who was unconscious and were able to successfully drag them out of the home to safety. When Engine 5-12-2 got on scene, the Chief advised to make sure they were packed up. It was also requested that the crew bring in their meters as well as tools to vent the home such as fans. It was determined that the home had readings of around 2000 parts per million which is dangerously high. This was due to the family using a generator in the basement since a tropical storm had taken down a tree and power lines. EMS units from Mastic, Shirley and Mastic Beach Ambulance Companies set up a command rehab area. They also treated a total of six people from the home. Four of the six home occupants were transported to a local hospital for further treatment. The remaining occupants refused transport.
JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS
Firefighters from Mastic FD outside a home on Floyd Rd. North at a CO emergency. Four people were taken to the hospital including one person who was pulled out by Chief Sunderman and his son, Lieutenant Sunderman.
Firefighters from Mastic and Brookhaven FD along with their EMS partners operated on scene for about two hours venting and making sure the home was safe. The Brookhaven Town Fire Marshal office and Suffolk Police 7th Precinct were also on scene. - JOHN WALTHERS
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EMS Command/ Rehab area established at the scene.
JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS
PAGE 30
October, 2020
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
LONG ISLAND
JOHN WALTHERS
Upside Down Vehicle in Mastic
PROVIDED
West Sayville 75 Year Member
Mastic, NY - On the morning of August 15th at about 9:30 A.M., the Mastic Fire Department and Mastic Ambulance Company were called for a report of a vehicle crash to Southaven Ave. off Mastic Rd. On arrival, Chief Sunderman found a single vehicle roll-over crash. No one was trapped in the vehicle so Chief Sunderman advised he would be fine with only one unit coming to the scene. Rescue 10 came in and the OIC directed them to secure the vehicle and clean up any debris that they could. The driver of the vehicle was checked out by Mastic EMS personnel.The road was closed for about 45 minutes before reopening.
On September 4th, the West Sayville Fire Department honored one of their own for reaching a milestone attained by few. Firefighter George LeighManuell was honored for 75 years of membership in the department. George was named Chief for the day as well as being presented with his Chiefs helmet along with plaques and badges. George also received accolades from local politicians for his accomplishments. George, now living in Florida, was honored via a Zoom meeting with his son, Bill LeighManuell by his side. George’s son, Bill, is also an Ex-Chief and 51 year member of the department. George and Bill together have a combined total of 126 years of service to the West Sayville and Oakdale communities. George’s good nature and fun loving personality has always been a forefront to his dedication to the department and community. His service to the department is an inspiration to all and to all the volunteer firefighters who serve the communities. Congratulations George on a milestone reached by few but admired by many.
BUDDY SHOTS
EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES
If you have photos you would like to see in our “Buddy Shots” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
If you have photos you would like to see in our “Emergency Medical Services” feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
SABELLA/ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY 2020
Selden firefighters from a recent mutual aid.
JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS
Shirley Ambulance Members on scene at a recent crash on Sunday, August 23rd.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
October, 2020
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LONG ISLAND
SABELLA/ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY 2020
Afternoon Work for Selden Selden, NY - On august 18th, an early afternoon basement fire broke out at 288 Magnolia Dr. This brought four departments with daytime crews to the scene. The fire appears to have started in the modified basement with extention up the stair case. Firefighter were held back due to the construction of walls in the basement hiding the fire. Firefighters were met with heavy smoke and high heat. Firefighters from Selden, Centereach, Coram and Terryville responded to the scene along with an ambulance from Port Jefferson Volunteer ambulance Company. Firefighter first stretched 1 3/4 through the back door into the basement. after fire was found, a second line went through the front door to stop any advancement of the fire. a few firefighters were rehabbed on scene and one neighbor was treated for smoke.
WORKING FACES If you have photos you would like to see in our “Working Faces” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
Mastic Beach firefighters head out on 5-13-26a for a water rescue.
JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS
Mastic Beach Responds to Water Rescue Mastic Beach NY- On Sunday, August 9th, about 11:40 A.M., the Mastic Beach Fire Department and Mastic Beach Ambulance were activated for a water rescue in the Bellport Bay near the inlet beach. Mastic Beach FD Chief Fred Loiacono was the first enroute. FireCOM advised there were reports that one jet ski had hit the Jetty and another jet skier was missing. Chief Loiacono immediately advised incoming units from his department to set up a command post at the Smith Point Marina and the mutual aid plan was activated for Bellport FD and South Country Ambulance to assist with boats and jet skis if available. Mastic Beach FD sent their Scuba Rescue truck
JUMP TO FILE #081620101 (5-13-8), Marine Rescue pickup (513-5) with its Boat Marine 1 and Jet ski (5-13-26A) to the Smith Point Marina to launch a rescue operation. They were assisted by Suffolk County Police Marine Mike. While searching, firefighters made contact with the father who was on the jet ski that went onto the jetty. He advised that his son was on another jetski and he had lost contact with him. Firefighters searched the area where the incident had occurred along with the police department boat. A short time later SCPD Marine Mike advised their head-
quarters that they had found a disabled jetski and were going to attempt to tow the jet ski and rider back to the marina. Upon confirmation of this by fire officials, they ordered their units to return back to the marina. During these operations, multiple ramps at the marina had to be closed to allow rescuers the chance to launch and dock their vessels. The missing jet skier was towed back to Smith Point Marina by SCPD Marine Mike. Both jet skiers were quickly interviewed by rescuers and it was determined neither was injured. All units were back in service by about 1:00 P.M. - JOHN WaLTHeRS
IN SERVICE If you have photos you would like to see in our In Service feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS
Firefighters C. Perry and R. Sanfilippo work on cleaning up a huge mess at a recent MVa call.
Read more articles on our website! www.1rbn.com Centereach Fire Department engine 6.
FRANKIE VERDERAME
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October, 2020
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
LONG ISLAND
Mastic FD Arrives at MVA to Find Vehicle on Fire Mastic, NY - On the evening of Wednesday, August 5th, at about 6:05 P.M., the Mastic Fire Department and Mastic Ambulance were activated for a two vehicle crash on Boxwood Dr & Moriches Middle Island Rd. Assistant Chief Gene Martucci advised upon his ar- JUMP TO FILE# rival that he had an 080920105 active vehicle fire at the scene of the crash. Chief of Department Rudy Sunderman arrived on scene and a short time later was given command of the scene. Engines 5-12-2, 5-12-3 & Rescue 10 all responded to the scene. It was determined no one was trapped but the engine compartment of one vehicle was on fire. Lines were immediately stretched from Engine 2 and firefighters went to work quickly to attack the fire and knock it down. After the main body of fire in the car was knocked down, members went to work to clean up debris and fluids and secure the second vehicle that was involved in the crash. Mastic Ambulance Company transported one person with minor injuries to Long Island Community Hospital. Fire Police as well as 7th Precinct officers closed Moriches Middle Island Rd. in the area while emergency crews were operating on scene. - JOHN WALTHERS
The door needed to be completely removed to access the patient.
JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS
WORKING FACES
APPARATUS IN ACTION
If you have photos you would like to see in our “Working Faces” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
If you have photos you would like to see in our “Apparatus in Action” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
Farmingville brothers at a head-on into tree MVA with arrest.
CHRIS SABELLA
JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS
Mastic Engine 2 operating at a MVA on the North Bound WIlliam Floyd Parkway on August 29th just before Noon.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
October, 2020
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October, 2020
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
FDNY Departments Battle Labor Day 5th Alarm in the Bronx A spectacular five-alarm fire swept through a pallet yard and several other businesses on September 7th sending up a smoke column that was visible in three states. At 4:28 P.M. the first of many JUMP TO FILE# phone alarms was 090920100 received at Bronx Dispatch for a reported junkyard fire at 528 Jake Street in the Hunts Point section of the Bronx. Heavy fire extending well above the walls of the 250 X 200 enclosed yard. Extra units were quickly called as the “10-75” was transmitted at 4:30 P.M., then the “all hands” a minute later, a second alarm at 4:38 P.M. and a third alarm at 4:44 P.M. Heavy fire quickly consumed the pallets putting off radiant heat that ignited several trucks and cars on and across the street. Flames leapt 50 plus feet above the structure as tower ladders were positioned and put into operation. Several adjoining businesses were threatened including a fuel oil company. Firefighters drove all the trucks that would start out of danger. A fourth-alarm was transmitted at 5:09 P.M. as the intensity of the fire began to diminish. In total six tower ladders, 5 handlines and 2 Stangs were operating. The exposures were protected and a 125 X 100 structure inside the yard was listed as slightly involved. A fifth alarm was called for relief purposes only as companies were switched out. The fire was placed” Probably will hold” at 7:01 P.M. and under control at 9:09 PM. Seven firefighters received injuries, two were listed as serious. The blaze was initially deemed suspicious due to the amount of fire on arrival and the fact the businesses were closed due to the holiday. Fire Marshalls are investigating.
BILL TOMPKINS – WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
- BILL TOMPKINS
BILL TOMPKINS – WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
October, 2020
PAGE 35
FDNY NEVER FORGET If you have photos you would like to see in our “Never Forget” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
FDNY Rescue 4 on display.
SHANE SHIFFLETT STEVEN WHITE
FIREFIGHTER, From Rookie to Chief ON THE BOOK SHELF
by John Malecky
FIREFIGHTER From Rookie to Chief By A. I Dower
Available from: FSP Books & Videos 188 Central Street, Suite #4 Hudson, MA 01749-1330 800-522-8528 E-mail: support@fire-police-ems.com www.fire-police-ems.com Price: $19.95
This is a soft cover book measuring 6 inches by 9 inches and has 164 pages plus nine pages of black and white photos. The author at present will be 95 years old this year. He joined the London Fire Brigade in 1950 and retired in 1983 after rising from rookie to chief and then inspector. There are 13 chapters of interesting reading starting with a chapter before the fire service and building on each subsequent chapter which was memoirs of each rank that he held. I believe that he may have had intended to address British readers because there is no glossary to ex-
plain many terms used by the British fire service which different from the United States fire service. Nevertheless it is a colorful read especially trying to figure out what certain terms or titles may mean. Sometimes I had to go to the search engine of my computer to find a definition here and there. Add to that the jargon spoken by the English much of which Americans may describe as slang, and you have interesting stories. Although he spent his career in many assignments in many different types of areas, he explains about his experiences battling fires and emergencies of all kinds. He does not dwell on many of these calls some of which were tragic and others at times humorous. We must not forget fire station routines and atmospheres of comradery which are always fun to read about and those can be found in the book. One of this things which amused me the most is how the British could take a noun or verb that Americans would be familiar with and present with another word or term. In those cases I would say to myself, “Yeah I guess you could call it that also!” In any event I believe this is an interesting book to read for anyone who has the time. The photos are at the end of the book and are mostly group photos or presentation. He and his late wife are in one photo. She is credited with being an important inspiration to him when he did his writing. He now resides in Spain.
STEVEN WHITE
Third-Alarm in Staten Island On August 21, 2020, departments responded to a two-story PD. The fire was on all floors and through the roof. Searches were delayed due to heavy clutter. It took an hour and 45 minutes to bring the fire under control at 4:58 A.M. Seven members were injured, not life-threatening.
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October, 2020
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
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