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BLAZE PUTS RAPIDS TO WORK ON CHRISTMAS
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At approximately 3 p.m. on December 25th, the alarm went off for a working structure barn fire on Simms Road. Rapids Fire Chief Barry Kobrin could see the smoke a half mile away. - See full story on page 24
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PAGE 2
February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
BOB ROOT
MIKE CAREY
Second alarm for Good-Will On December 29, 2013, the Good-Will Fire Department was alerted for a garage fire on North Dix Avenue near Taft Avenue. The fire was quickly knocked down and overhaul operations began. An investigation into the cause and origin of the fire was conducted.
MIKE CAREY
Fire hits a Latham home Latham, NY. A fire on Monday, December 16th caused damage to a Latham home. Crews were called to 68 Broadway for reports of a kitchen fire. Upon arrival, firefighters were pleased to find that the homeowner had shoveled out the nearest fire hydrant, but crews experienced low water pressure once they hooked into it. In addition, Latham's ladder truck had problems getting its aerial to function, forcing crews to employ
JUMP TO FILE #071513129
ground ladders almost immediately. They eventually got the aerial functioning, which helped in knocking down the fire. "The crews did a good job holding the fire with what they had, to prevent further damage," said Latham Chief Neil Blanchard. All of the residents were able to escape safely. The family dog also
made it out, but two cats were trapped. Firefighters were able to find and remove them safely and no injuries were reported. The top floor of the raised roof was pretty much destroyed. Blanchard says despite the water and aerial problems, coupled with temperatures hovering around zero and almost a foot of snow that had fallen a day earlier, firefighters didn't lose much in their efforts. - MIKE CAREY
JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER
Cleaning out after the big storm As the state cleans up after an early snow storm, the Green Island Fire Department was out removing the snow from around the hydrants in their village in case of a emergency.
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
February, 2014
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February, 2014
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A train collided with a car carrier on Friday, December 6th at 11:30 a.m. at the crossing on Pineview Rd. The train, hauling 99 rail cars, slammed into the cab of the car carrier as it was at- JUMP TO FILE # tempting to cross 120713107 the tracks. The driver of the car carrier was ejected and transported with serious injures. The train engineer and his assistant were not injured and were able to escape the locomotive as the vehicle burst into flames at the front of the engine. Fire crews arrived on scene and extinguished the blaze within minutes. No other injuries were reported and crews remained on scene for an extensive period of time. The crash still remains under investigation. - CHRIS TOMPKINS
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HEATHER PILLSWORTH
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CORPORATE INFORMATION 1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New York edition - Vol. 15 No. 2 - 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.
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HEATHER PILLSWORTH
Good-Will Fire Department
HEATHER PILLSWORTH
Monell Engine Company
Holiday lights parade in Washingtonville On Saturday, December 7, 2013, the Blooming Grove/Washingtonville Chamber of Commerce held their 3rd Annual Washingtonville Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting. The parade started at Vern Allen Park and ended at the Washingtonville High School. Santa was dropped off in the center of the village for the Annual Tree Lighting, which kicked off the holiday season locally. Hundreds of residents lined the streets as almost two dozen fire trucks passed by with decorations galore encompassing their vehicles. Winona Lake even had a trailer with a campfire on it. The Washingtonville ladder delivered Santa. He then assisted with the tree lighting in the center of the village.
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
February, 2014
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February, 2014
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In memory of those who gave all 1st Responder Newspaper honors and remembers emergency responders lost in the line of duty Ohio: James Michael Hill, 52 Rank: Lieutenant Incident Date: November 5, 2013 Death Date: November 5, 2013 Fire Department: Sycamore Township Fire & EMS Department Initial Summary: Lieutenant Hill passed away at home in his sleep. Hill had been on-duty and responded to an emergency incident within 24 hours of his passing. The cause of death is still to be officially reported but initial findings indicate a sudden cardiac arrest.
Pennsylvania: Russ “Rooster” Gow, 58 Rank: First Assistant Fire Chief Incident Date: November 20, 2013 Death Date: November 20, 2013 Fire Department: Factoryville Fire Department Initial Summary: While at the scene of a residential structure fire, First Assistant Chief Gow collapsed from a nature of illness still to be reported. Gow was treated on scene by fellow responders and transported to the hospital where he succumbed to his injury.
Maryland: David Roland Barr Jr. , 64 Rank: Fire Police Captain Incident Date: October 25, 2013 Death Date: November 7, 2013 Fire Department: Community Fire Company of Perryville Initial Summary: While working a traffic control point protecting the scene of a motor vehicle accident, Fire Police Captain Barr was struck by a car and seriously injured. Barr was treated at the scene by fellow responders and transported to the hospital where he succumbed to his injuries almost two weeks later.
West Virginia: Charles A. Pierson, 76 Rank: Fire Chief Incident Date: December 7, 2013 Death Date: December 7, 2013 Fire Department: Southern Jackson County Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: After responding to the fire station for the report of a motor vehicle accident, Chief Pierson suffered a medical emergency and collapsed while boarding the first due apparatus. Although fellow responders came to his aid, Chief Pierson passed away in the fire station from a nature of injury still to be reported.
New York: James C. Goodman, Jr., 52 Rank: Lieutenant Incident Date: November 11, 2013 Death Date: November 11, 2013 Fire Department: Nedrow Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: Lieutenant Goodman passed away while at the fire station from a cause still to be officially reported. According to fire department officials, Goodman was found unresponsive in the exercise room of the firehouse.
Minnesota: Matt Frantz, 42 Rank: Fire Chief Incident Date: December 9, 2013 Death Date: December 9, 2013 Fire Department: Rice Lake Township Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: Chief Frantz passed away from an apparent heart attack within 24 hours of responding to his fire station for a mutual aid fire call.
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
February, 2014
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MICHAEL HOOSOCK
Moyers Corners responds to mobile home fire On December 2nd at 4:15 a.m., the Moyers Corners Fire Department was alerted to a possible residential fire in the Madison Village Trailer Park. Upon the arrival of Chief Zaferakis, a working fire was observed in a double wide trailer and a Signal 99 was struck. Engine 41 called for a split-lay to be completed and began the initial attack from a defensive standpoint. Engine 21 completed the splitlay before taking the second handline off Engine 41 and assisting the first due crew. After an approximate two minute defensive attack, a handline was brought through the front
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door of the residence and the bulk of the fire was quickly knocked down. Engine 11 assisted with fire suppression and Rescue 3 filled the RIT assignment. Chief Crispin, Chief Race, and Chief Bailey were also on scene and assisted with fireground ops. Units were returned to service in approximately one hour, minus an engine that stood by for county fire investigators.
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February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
JOHN HOPPER
MIKE CAREY
Crews from Mechanicville and Waterford make an aerial attack
Fire destroys McDonald’s in Waterford Waterford, NY. An early morning fire Saturday, December 7th destroyed a McDonald's restaurant on Saratoga Avenue in Waterford. The call came in around 3:30 a.m. and the first crews arrived quickly from the Peck Hose Company firehouse, which is about a half-mile away. Despite the quick response, flames were already through the roof. Authorities say the fire had gotten into the ventilation system and quickly spread to the walls and ceiling. Due to the nature of the build-
JUMP TO FILE #120913105
ing, including large ventilation and refrigeration systems, a decision was made to make a strictly defensive attack. The Boght Fire Department FAST team was turned into an engine company and helped battle the fire. A tower from Mechanicsville was initially placed on standby, but was called to the scene once it became a defensive attack. At one point, the refrigeration
system fell through the roof and came to rest in the dining area. The store was open 24-hours and two employees were inside at the time the fire began, but both got out safely and no injuries were reported. The restaurant employs about 50. It took crews at least two hours to bring the fire under control and almost seven hours to get it extinguished. Investigators stating they're still searching for the cause, but it appears to have started as a grease fire. - MIKE CAREY
PET FRIENDS If you have photos you would like to see in our Pet Friends feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
JOHN HOPPER
Fourth alarm in Yonkers Around 16:00hrs on December 26th, Yonkers fire department units were toned out to 371 South Broadway at McLean Avenue for a reported 10-29(Structure Fire) in the Dollar K store. Engine 304 arrived moments later confirming it was a job. Battalion 1 arrived a while later and transmitted a 1030(All Hands) and a 2nd Alarm. Car 2 then transmitted a 3rd and 4th Alarm for heavy fire in a taxpayer. No victims were injured or killed, multiple yonkers firefighters were treated for smoke inhalation.
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February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
PAGE 9
STEVE ZAFERAKIS
Fatal car accident in Moyers Corners At 1:40 p.m. on Novembe 24th, the Moyers Corners Fire Department was dispatched to a reported motor vehicle collision at the intersection of Oswego Road and Rosewood Drive. The initial dispatch advised that the caller reported the accident as being serious, and that one passenger had been ejected through a windshield. Car 2, Crispin, took over scene operations while Battalion 1, Bailey, took the command. They were joined shortly thereafter by Car 1, Perkins, and Car 4, Zaferakis, who took over scene support and safety. Chief Bailey relayed to fire control the severity of the accident and immediately requested three
JUMP TO FILE #121213101
additional ambulances to the scene. Rescue 4 and Engine 22 began extrication on one vehicle that had five passengers, all with life-threatening injuries, including one traumatic arrest. Engine 21 and Rescue 3 assisted with patient care, hazards, and overall scene stabilization. Rescue companies removed all four doors and the roof of the most heavily damaged vehicle and had all five patients extricated and in waiting ambulances within 30 minutes of the dispatch time. All together, seven patients were transported to the trauma
center by six ambulances (three TLC, two Rural Metro, and one NAVAC). The scene was subsequently turned over to the Onondaga County Sheriff's accident investigation team. The Liverpool and Clay Fire Departments stood by for MCFD while units were on this alarm. Unfortunately, one passenger was later pronounced dead from her injuries. This is the 7th fatal vehicle accident that the volunteers of Moyers Corners responded to in 2013.
KEVIN BARRY
Rombout Assistant Chief marries Fishkill, NY. Rombout Fire Company Second Assistant Chief Chris Mazzuca and his bride Victoria Fulco celebrated their wedding ceremony at Saint Mary’s Church in Fishkill. The newly married couple was chauffeured in Chris’s chief Car 623, from the church to Rombout Station 1 grounds, where wedding photos were taken before heading to the reception at the Grand Hotel in Poughkeepsie. Phil Fulco, Victoria’s father is a member of the Rombout Fire Police. The officers and members wish the couple the very best in their future together.
- MICHAEL HOOSOCK
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Heavy damage at house Buffalo firefighters of the 3rd Battalion 4th Platoon were called out to battle a blaze at 53 Quincy St. on the City's East Side on Black Friday, November 29, 2013. This was the scene of a previous fire on November 2, 2013. Firefighters used multiple one and three quarter inch hand lines to bring the fire under control along with 40 feet of ladders. No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation. Damage was heavy.
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PAGE 10
February, 2014
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
DAVID F. KAZMIERCZAK JOHN SPAULDING
Fatal MVA on Interstate 490 Gates, NY. The Gates Fire District was dispatched to several exits on Interstate 490 for an MVA. Monroe County Sheriffs Office and NY State troopers cleared the eastern intersection and finally located the accident on SR490 eastbound at SR204. A driver had entered the limited access highway at an unknown location finally striking a car head on. The driver of the vehicle that was struck was pronounced dead at the scene. The husband was transported to Strong Memorial. The operator of the wrong-way vehicle required extrication and RSI by Gates paramedics. The third vehicle ran over debris. The occupants were evaluated at the scene and released. The Monroe County Sheriffs Office stopped traffic for more than 12 hours Saturday, December 7th on SR490 for an investigation.
Correspondent Contest Sponsored by FF1 Professional Safety Services The readers of 1st Responder Newspaper have helped make www.1rbn.com the fastest-growing Fire/Rescue/EMS site on the web. Information comes from our valued correspondents. Each time you post an entry on our website, your name will go into a drawing for a monthly prize. Only web entries are eligible. The prize for our February editions from FF1 Professional Safety Services is a 5.11 Tactical Job Shirt with the new FF1 logo. Our December editions winner of Fire-Dex FDXL50 Grey leather boots was Jeff Belschwinder from Troy, NY. If your company would like to provide a prize and sponsor our monthly contest, contact Heather at x212.
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KEVIN BRAUTLACHT
Early morning fire in Buffalo Buffalo firefighters were dispatched at 7:49 a.m. on December 23, 2013 to 267 Katherine Street for a structure fire. Arriving crews reported a two and a half story occupied wood frame with smoke showing. There was heavy fire on the first floor in the rear. Crews worked hard opening up to find all of the hidden fire. The fire extended to the second floor and attic. Crews used four-one and three quarter inch handlines. An extra engine and ladder were dispatched. The fire was called under control at 8:44 a.m.
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
February, 2014
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February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
BOB ROOT DAVID F. KAZMIERCZAK
Smoke reported in a tavern While Buffalo firefighters were mopping up at a fire on Summer Street, a report of smoke at a tavern came in for 253 Allen Street in the city's historic Allentown District. The 3rd Battalion filled in for the 4th Battalion chief. Members of the 1st Platoon made quick work of the small fire with a water can. No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation.
Firefighters save family photos Firefighters extinguished a blaze and saved precious family photos at a fire in the Town of Newburgh on January 4, 2014. Firefighters were alerted to a residential fire with JUMP TO FILE # heavy smoke from 011514110 the attic at 150 Mountain View Avenue. A second alarm was quickly brought to the scene and to standby by command. Firefighters stretched multiple hose lines to the front and rear of the home and the occupants were confirmed as out of the residence. The bulk of the fire was quickly brought under control, but according to reports, the structure was compromised. During the overhaul process, firefighters were able to recover many precious family photos and
BOB ROOT
give them to the homeowners. On the scene were Cronomer Valley, Plattekill, Dan Leghorn and the City of Newburgh Fire Departments. Additional mutual aid
departments were standby by. The cause and origin of the fire are under investigation. - HEATHER PILLSWORTH
ALL IN THE FAMILY If you have photos you would like to see in our “All in the Family” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
DAVID F. KAZMIERCZAK
Buffalo, N.Y. Fire 83 Briscoe Ave. Buffalo firefighters of the 3rd Battalion 4th Platoon were called out to battle a blaze in a large bungalow at 83 Briscoe Avenue in the city's Schiller Park section on December 17, 2013. Firefighters used three-one and three quarter inch hand lines and 40 feet of ladders to bring the fire under control. One firefighter was transported to the hospital with injuries. The Red Cross was called for one adult and two children, who were left homeless. The cause of the fire is under investigation. Division Chief Mike Biasillo put the damages at $60,000 to the building and $15,000 to the contents.
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1st Responder Newspaper - NY
February, 2014
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February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
L.PARSELL
Cold water teams continue upstream as they search
Stream beds search for missing woman in Gowanda A search for a missing Gowanda woman resumed on December 28th in the stream beds running through the village. The 59 year old woman had been missing from her home since December 23rd. Two previous searches conducted by the Cattaraugus County Sheriffs office, Gowanda Fire Department, Gowanda Police and Perrysburg Fire Department along with volunteer NYS Ccrrections officers had not offered any sign of the woman.
JUMP TO FILE #122813105
It was decided to perform a search of the two creek beds that run to the large Cattaraugus creek. Gowanda Fire called on help from various member departments of the Western NY ALERT Teams for ice and cold water suits and equipment as well as other local mutual aid neighbors. Several dozen members were split into eight separate teams to
perform the searches of the two stream beds and banks of the Cattaraugus creek Several hours were spent in rugged terrain and also through the village areas. Some items were found and passed on to Gowanda Police, but no sign of the missing woman. All who took part were very safe and professional in the operation and no one was injured despite the water and rugged areas. - TIM TWICHELL
Red Hook firefighter and Dutchess County Sheriff rescue man from burning building The Dutchess County Sheriff’s office reports responding to a structure fire in Red Hook during the early morning hours of November 30th, during which a sheriff’s deputy and a Red Hook firefighter rescued a disabled man from the building. The Sheriff’s office and Red Hook Fire Department responded to 7351 South Broadway in Red Hook at approximately 4:35 a.m. on November 30th for a report of a structure fire. The structure was a commercial building, which contained a laundromat. Fire was discovered in the area of a dryer. Upon the arrival of the deputy and firefighter, the owner of the building/laundromat, Joe Colburn,
JUMP TO FILE #120713108
was still inside the building (upstairs) and was unable to get out due to a disability. Mr. Colburn resides in an apartment above the business. Deputy Russell Seymour and Red Hook Assistant Chief Michael Lane immediately entered the smoke-filled building, located Mr. Colburn, and carried him out of the building to safety. Deputy Seymour and Assistant Chief Lane put their personal safety aside and entered the building to help someone in need and if it had not been for their efforts, the situa-
tion could have turned out very differently. Both men deserve recognition for the outstanding job they did to bring Mr. Colburn to safety during a very dangerous situation. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, and the damage to the structure was minimal due to the quick efforts of the Red Hook Fire Department. The Sheriff’s Office and Red Hook Fire Department were assisted at the scene by the New York State Police, the Dutchess County Fire Investigation Division, and the Rhinebeck and Tivoli Fire Departments. - SHAWN BALL
NYSAFC
NYSAFC remembers past President George R. Maney NYSAFC is saddened to announce the loss of Past President George R. Maney, who led the association from 2004-2005. He passed away on December 15, 2013. Maney joined the Johnson City Fire Department (Broome County) in 1964, was a lieutenant in the 1970s, and served as chief of the department from 19862001. He is fondly remembered as a caring leader and was a strong proponent for fire safety education in the community. In addition to his duties as fire chief in Johnson City, Maney spent a number of years as building inspector for the village. In that capacity, he helped many owners navigate the requirements for opening their new businesses. He also served as chairman of the New York State Department of State Division of Building Standards and Codes and served on the New York State Codes Council Fire Sub-Committee. A member of NYSAFC since 1986, Maney actively served on the Life Safety Committee prior to his election to the board of directors in 1994. During his tenure as president, NYSAFC celebrated its 100th anniversary. This was also a time of great change and financial uncertainty for the association, yet under the strong leadership of Maney and the board of directors, the association endured and continues to thrive. Maney was known as a strong
JUMP TO FILE #123013126
advocate for training and education. Under his leadership, NYSAFC expanded its education program, providing more seminar and hands-on training opportunities and introducing new programs, such as ISO and fire accreditation workshops. The association was also sworn in as a Statewide Fire Chapter of the International Code Council (ICC) and for the first time provided codes training at the Annual Conference where students could earn CEUs – a program that continues today. In addition, during this period NYSAFC began plans for relocation of the Annual Conference & FIRE Expo from Syracuse to Lake George, and greatly enhanced communication efforts by introducing a new design for SIZE UP magazine, launching a redesigned website, and offering new benefits like the Daily Dispatch e-newsletter. Maney also was a member of the New York State Building Officials, Career Fire Chiefs of New York State, International Codes Council, and International Association of Fire Chiefs. He also was a former member of Choconut Center Volunteer Fire Department. - NYSAFC
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
February, 2014
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February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
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High rise fire in Buffalo Buffalo firefighters of the 3rd Battalion 1st Platoon were called out to battle a blaze at 211 E. Eagle St. in the city's downtown section on December 10th. A high rise assignment brought four engines on the box. With reports of heavy smoke on the seventh floor, the chief requested two extra engines and a ladder. Firefighters used one-two and a half inch and two-one and three quarter inch hand lines as well as a water can. One firefighter was transported to the hospital with injuries. The cause of the fire is under investigation. Division Chief Mike Biasillo listed the damage at $75,000 to the building and $25,000 to the contents. The eighth floor received smoke damage.
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East Berne Volunteer Fire Company’s Firefighter 1 graduation ceremony East Berne Volunteer Fire Company has four new Firefighter 1 graduates: Nate Hayduke, Josh Burgher, Brandon Kallner and Cory Slingerland. The NYS Firefighter 1 course prepares entry level firefighters to respond to emergencies. Several members of volunteer fire companies serving the hill towns of Albany County completed the course in Spring of 2013. They were officially recognized at graduation ceremonies honoring this milestone achievement. State fire instructors presented certificates designating the graduates as qualified interior structural firefighters. The NYS Firefighter 1 Course teaches fire brigade, respiratory, and emergency response to hazardous material standards. Confined space entry and control of hazardous energy standards are also covered, along with other necessary subjects.
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1st Responder Newspaper - NY
Notes From the Firehouse ON THE BOOK SHELF by John Malecky
Notes From the Firehouse By D.E. McCourt Available from: FSP Books & Videos 188 Central Street, Suite #4 Hudson, MA 017491330 1-800-522-8528 www.firepolice-ems.com Price: $14.95 This is a soft cover book measuring 5 ½ inches by 8 ½ inches. It has 17 chapters within 213 pages. Each of the chapters is titled. It is memoirs from a firefighter, who served with the Melrose, Massachusetts Fire Department. He retired in 1998. His father served as a captain in the Medford, Massachusetts Fire Department and his brother is also a captain there. With most of these types of books, they are stories remembered by firefighters, who served in large fire departments. Melrose, in contrast, is a small city with three stations. At the time of these stories, they ran with three engines, one truck and a rescue (an ambulance.) There are parts in these chapters where lack of manpower and overtime is mentioned. Apparently they took their toll. I recently went to their website to find that the headquarter’s station no longer has an engine, so they are now down to two and one! Melrose distinguished themselves many years ago by buying the first metal aerial ladder that the Peter Pirsch Fire Apparatus Company built. It was in a Pirsch ad when Melrose replaced it years later with another one. Getting into the book more, each chapter is a particular story either about an incident, a person, an event or simply circumstances. If you were a paid firefighter, your memory may jog when you read about details to another station, or being the new guy in your own station and the memorable harassment you went through which we recall and all laughed about later. Some of the stories are pretty grim and graphic for so goes the experiences of being called to an emergency scene. Some of the calls could never be captured by the imagination because they go beyond it! In the book there are times when mutual aid comes into play for other cities or from other cities. If you are familiar with the greater Melrose area you can probably figure out who these other towns are but other than that they are not specifically named. I think it is a good read when you have the time!
February, 2014
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February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
Transitioning EMS ISSUES CHELLE CORDERO
In 1996, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) published the national consensus document titled EMS Agenda for the Future (Agenda) to create a common vision for the future of EMS and to help guide EMS planning, decision making, and policy. In 2000, the Agenda was followed by the EMS Education Agenda for the Future: A Systems Approach (Education Agenda). Based on the guidelines created from these reports, all practitioner levels will conform to a similar standard of care. The National Association of State EMS Officials (NASEMSO) took the lead to coordinate implementation of the Education Agenda; individual states needed to revise or develop processes to facilitate a smooth transition and implement the new Education Standards. There are two generally ac-
cepted national accreditation processes for education programs in the United States: a non-governmental higher education enterprise or by the government to bring EMS certifications as close to other allied health occupations accreditation as possible. Accreditation is granted to EMS education programs through the review and recommendation of e Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) Committee on Accreditation for the Emergency Medical Services Professions (CoAEMSP). If you re-certified prior to May 2013 (CFR and EMT prior to December 2012) have to make sure that they are up to the latest standards as New York State makes the transition to National Educational Standards. Basic changes include: National Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) will be the NYS CFR with some modifications and course hours go from 48 to 60; National Emergency Medical Technician will be the NYS EMT and hours go from 150 to 190; National Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) will replace the NYS Intermediate and estimated hours change from 160 to 200; and National Paramedic will be the NYS Paramedic, hours
change from 1000 to 1200. The NYS Critical Care (CC) doesn’t change at this time. Overall, recent changes in EMS include the changing roles of EMS responders from basic emergency response to a form of mobile. There is an emphasis on increased safety for both the responder and the patient. Some levels of certification will be relabeled: “First responder” is being changed to “emergency medical responder” or “EMR.” The Scope of Practice (SOP) committee felt that EMS and medical responders have a unique focus at the scene of an emergency but have been lumped into a larger category of “first responder” by the press and lay public. EMT-Basic will now be known as only EMT. The level between EMT and paramedic will be referred to as “advanced EMT” or “AEMT,” and EMT-Paramedic will be referred to solely as “paramedic.” If you are already a National Registry certified provider, NYS's refresher courses will contain the required updated materials to reflect the National Education Standards. All EMT CME participants who submit for recertification on or after December 20, 2012 must submit a letter from their CIC of record for their agency that the participant has completed all newly developed objectives either through agency based training or training through a BEMS Course Sponsor.
JEFFREY ARNOLD
Car into pole in Rochester Rochester, NY. On Saturday night, December 28, Rochester firefighters responded to a one car accident at the intersection of Joseph Avenue and Avenue D. Firefighters from Rescue 11 and Engine 2 arrived on the scene and found a car into a light pole. The occupants of the vehicle were transported to the hospital by Rural Metro Ambulance for evaluation. The Rochester Police were investigating the cause of the crash.
DAVID KAZMIERCZAK
JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER
Multiple houses lost in multi alarm Schenectady fire The City of Schenectady was toned for a fully involved structure fire at 35 Moyston St. on December 25th. Police units advised dispatch they had heavy fire coming from the house. Engine 1 called a second alarm and for multiple working structures. The fire quickly spread to other structures on the block. Schenectady Truck 1 and Engine 1 set up master stream and
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deck gun operations with multiple working two and a half inch hand lines to fight the fire. At least three buildings had collapsed into the street and at one point flames were about 40 feet in the air. Crews ran into all kinds of problems as they battled the fire.
The freezing cold weather hampered efforts as the mist from hand lines hit firefighters’ gear and freezing almost instantly. Water pressure was low due to the demand on the city’s water system. Fire departments from outside the city were brought in to assist. Crews fought this fire to the early hours of the morning. - JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER
Buffalo, N.Y. Fire 54 Romoleno St. Buffalo firefighters of the 6th Battalion 2nd Platoon were called out early Friday morning to 54 Romoleno St. in South Buffalo on December 6, 2013. Two engines and a truck were dispatched for a stove fire. Engine Co. 25 arrived to a fast moving spreading from the kitchen. Captain James Seemuller of Engine Co. 25 requested the balance of a full box assignment. A civilian was rescued by members of Ladder Co. 10. Firefighters used two-one and three quarter inch hand lines to bring the fire under control. Damage was extensive listed at $35,000 and the cause of the fire is under investigation. Two cats were also rescued from the two and a half frame dwelling.
February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
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February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
STEPHEN M WALLACE
Lockport battles multiple apartment building fire It was just after 3:00 a.m. when the alarm came in for a working structure fire at 73 Elmwood in the City of Lockport. First engines were on scene in under three minutes and reported a working apartment fire with multiple exposure problems. Alerts sounded for a possible elderly man trapped on the second floor. Firefighters pulled hand lines to avoid the spread to the East and West apartment buildings. Live wires arched above as firefighters held back the flames. Fire was through the roof fo the primary fire building with heavy flames from front to rear. The chief sounded the second alarm. South Lockport volunteers were called in with their A-8 aer-
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ial. Moments later, the assistant chief called for a general alarm all hands. The second structure was ripping with fire. Firefighting efforts were hindered as two back to back hydrants were frozen. A five inch feed line was laid from over 1000 feet away. The city raised their aerial and tried to hold the roof line of the second structure, which now had fire up the east outer wall and through the attic windows. The wind shifted for a small period, exposing a third home on the East side of the primary fire. As the original building started to
collapse, a wave of off duty Lockport firefighters arrived to assist. More hand lines were pulled and back up engines arrived. The second structure to the West was alive with fire and firefighters battled it from all sides. NYSEG arrived on scene and was able to cut the power. At 5:56 a.m., the fires were under control. The outside temperature was only 19 degrees and most of the lines are frozen in the street. Firefighters remained on scene battling hot spots for quite some time and the fire is under investigation. The search was under way to see if anyone remained in the building.
BOB ROOT
New recruits train City of Newburgh, NY. On December 12, 2013, the City of Newburgh's new recruits conducted extrication training.
- STEPHEN WALLACE
BOB ROOT
JOHN HOPPER
Fourth alarm in Yonkers Around 4:00 p.m. on December 26th, Yonkers Fire Department units were toned out to 371 South Broadway at McLean Avenue for a reported 10-29 in the Dollar K store. Engine 304 arrived moments later confirming it was a job.
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Battalion 1 arrived a while later and transmitted a 10-30 (all hands) and a second alarm. Car 2 then transmit third and
fourth alarms for heavy fire in a taxpayer. No victims were injured or killed. multiple yonkers firefighters were treated for smoke inhalation. - JOHN HOPPER
Pedestrian struck in City of Newburgh On January 14, 2014, alerts were sounded for a pedestrian accident at Robinson Avenue and South Street in the City of Newburgh. The patient was packaged and transported to a local hospital for treatment. On the scene were City of Newburgh Fire Department, City of Newburgh Police and Mobile Life Support Services.
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
February, 2014
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February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
BOB ROOT
Chimney fire in Middlehope Town of Newburgh, NY - At a little before 8 a.m. on December 16th, firefighters were alerted to a chimney fire in the Middlehope section of the town. Middlehope firefighters with a mutual aid engine from Good-Will arrived at 7 Linda Drive. Two hose lines were pulled and firefighters quickly extinguished the fire and checked for extension. Fire investigators and the Town of Newburgh Police Department were also on scene.
TIM PILLSWORTH
Firefighters collect and deliver gifts to needy children On Sunday, December 22nd, the fire companies of the Town of Blooming Grove came together at the Washingtonville fire station to gather the gifts for special delivery by fire truck to 100 needy families within the town. All of the town's fire companies; Salisbury Mills and Mt. Lodge Fire Companies of the Salisbury Mills Fire District, Independence Fire Company of the South Blooming Grove Fire District and Monell Engine Company of the Washingtonville Fire District; joined forces
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to gather, wrap, and distribute new toys to the children of the town whose families have fallen on difficult times. Firefighter TC Lynn and Fire Police Joe Federici of the Washingtonville Fire Department took over the leadership of the annual event to ensure that our smallest citizens had the Christmas they deserved. Firefighters spent hours gathering, pur-
chasing, organizing, and wrapping the gift. They came together to give back to the community on what could be the most difficult time of year for needy families. Only happiness and joy was witnessed as the fire trucks pulled up in front of each residence with lights and sirens delivering Santa and his gifts. All of the firefighters involved should be proud of what they offered to the children we protect every day. - TIM PILLSWORTH
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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
MICHAEL HOOSOCK
Moyers Corners responds to possible industrial fire On December 10th at 12:45 p.m., the Moyers Corners Fire Department was dispatched to an automatic alarm activation at a National Grid Warehouse/office building. Upon the arrival of Car-1 (Chief Perkins), a heavy smoke condition was found in the building and the alarm was upgraded to a structure response. Engine 31 took interior operations while Truck 2 took roof operations. The truck located an HVAC unit on the roof that was the source of the smoke and confined the problem to the HVAC unit itself. With no extension to the building, companies were in service within 25 minutes. Engine 21, Engine 41, Rescue 4, and Mattydale Rescue 1 (RIT) staged on scene. BILL TOMPKINS
Suffern Fire Department at Wallington (NJ)’s Holiday Parade
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
How’s your Driving? Hazards and emergency situations Part II There are many hazards and emergency situations that can be encountered while driving and one must be aware of what they are and how to quickly react in order to prevent serious injury or death to you, your passengers, or vehicles and their occupants. How would you react to a blown tire, loss of brakes, stuck accelerator or an animal in the road? Do you use additional caution when driving under inclement weather conditions? These are just a few of the driving emergencies and hazards you may encounter when driving your personal vehicle or an emergency vehicle, and how you react could make the difference between loss of control and crash or no crash. The most important thing that you can do is not to panic, and knowing what to do in an emergency situation will keep you from panicking. In most driving emergencies, there will be a brief second or two to think before you act, not much time, but if you have familiarized yourself with how to react to certain events, you will have a better chance of survival. Let’s begin with winter driving hazards in your personal vehicle. Winter brings a shortened number of daylight hours that increases the number of driving hours with reduced visibility. Before heading out make sure you and your vehicle are prepared. Clear any snow that may have accumulated from your vehicle, making sure the front windshield, windshield wipers, and rear window have been cleared of snow and ice. Clear headlights and taillights of any snow or ice and drive with your headlights turned on. The ability to see and be seen reduces your chances of being involved in a crash. Drive slowly and cautiously while driving with the flow of traffic. If someone is driving on your tail, do not endanger yourself by speeding up. When the opportunity presents itself, allow the other vehicle to safely pass and be on its way. You may encounter them later having spun out or in a crash. Drive at reduced speed while maintaining an increased distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you, it will provide a greater margin of safety should you have to stop suddenly. To avoid skids on snow and ice, brake early, carefully and gently. "Squeeze" your brakes in slow, steady strokes. Allow the wheels to keep rolling. If they begin to lock up, ease off the brake pedal. Most vehicles today are equipped with anti-locking brake systems (ABS) that operate automatically and will do most of the aforementioned once you have applied the brakes. Driving your vehicle in a lower gear will give you better traction and improved braking control and
STAYING SAFE Chief Henry Campbell
reduced braking distance. When sleet, freezing rain or snow start to fall, remember that bridges, ramps, and overpasses are likely to freeze first. Also be aware that slippery spots may still remain after road crews have cleared the highways. If no spray is kicking up from the tires on the vehicle(s) in front of you, it usually indicates ice has formed on the roadway. When traveling on a multi lane highway stay in the lane that offers the least hazardous road conditions, usually the lane with the most vehicles and cautious drivers. Responding to emergency calls during winter can be very treacherous and slow, requiring well maintained apparatus and qualified drivers familiar with winter driving conditions that include driving on ice and snow. Drivers must be alert to hazardous road, weather and traffic conditions which will create delays in responding. Impaired visibility from falling snow, sleet, hail, freezing rain, or fog conditions may be experienced. Streets blocked by snow, stalled and abandoned vehicles, fuel and delivery trucks, will add to the delay in response; enabling the incident to escalate and further endanger the safety of occupants and emergency responders. Many apparatus now use permanently installed traction chain systems and sanders to increase traction and complete a safe response. The use of full tire snow chains may be required in deteriorating conditions in some regions in order to effect and complete a response. When do you put the chains on the apparatus can be a difficult question for some, but should be based on the weather forecast, present conditions, expected conditions, past experience, and time of day. If you think you should put the full set of chains on your apparatus, go ahead and do it, they can be easily removed if not needed. More importantly, you will rest easy knowing you have done all you possibly could do to effect a safe and complete response. Driving in adverse weather conditions requires planning, patience and reduced speeds. Further, if your apparatus gets stuck in a snow drift, it will require additional equipment to pull you free and you will be of no value to the emergency scene to which you were responding. The NY State Driver’s Manual and Commercial Drivers’ Manual is being used as a reference for some of the information provided in this article. To be continued. Till next time, Stay Safe and God Bless!
February, 2014
Page 23
Laugh your way to the bank with a stand-up comedy fund-raiser Who needs to laugh more than the Fire Companies ---the first responders who deal with dangerous circumstances each and every day? There’s an innovative concept for fund-raising developed by Joey Novick, who is a stand-up comedian and the Fire Commissioner in his hometown: Stand-up comedy shows. Fire companies can get much-needed laughs and profit financially as well. Novick's company, ComedyWorks, provides all-star headline comedians from HBO, Comedy Central, Showtime, Last Comic Standing, and the Tonight Show. Novick’s been producing comedy shows since 1977, and has experience producing shows with such comedians as Jerry Seinfeld, Rosie O’Donnell, Larry The Cable Guy, and Tim Allen. "The comedians were very funny, and very professional," wrote Mark Bruhmuller, Fire Chief of the Churchtown Fire Company of New York. “Joey Novick did an excellent job. Everybody loves to laugh, and it's a great deal of fun." ComedyWorks produces more than 300 shows a year, almost 150 of those for emergency service organizations. The money these shows can
VENDOR TIDBITS Notes from the emergency service business community
raise varies, depending on things like the number of tickets sold, how they're priced, the amount spent on promotion and whether food and drink are available. "Mostly companies produce shows in their own facilities, which may hold 300–400 people," says Novick. "We'll put together a show for them that will bring in comedians from major comedy clubs, with a headliner from HBO, Comedy Central, or the Tonight Show. The feature performer will be someone who's headlined the comedy circuit: Catch a Rising Star, the Improv, the Comedy Store. The host of the show will be a comedian who's very high-energy, like a gameshow host, to get the audience warmed up. A triple headliner show!” The Somerset Fire Company of New Jersey produces two fundraisers a year through ComedyWorks. "We've done about ten shows so far, and it's been great," says Mike Rein-
beck, who coordinates the shows for the 65-member volunteer department. "A friend of mine who had used Joey told me, 'This guy books really good acts.' So, we did the first show, everything was great, and we've been doing shows with Joey ever since." "I find their people to be very funny," agrees Adam Hubney, chief of the Atlantic Highlands Volunteer Fire Department in New Jersey, which books comedians through ComedyWorks for its annual dinner. "We have a professional comedy club in our county, and the quality is just as good." Comedy Works provides a 30-page ‘How-To’ guide that assists organizations through the comedy show production and warns of mistakes to avoid. "We make sure they follow everything in the guide," says Novick. "If a company has never done this before, it gives you everything from you need to know. We make sure that things get done right. Clients who follow the guide always do very well and tend to make money.” For information on Comedy Works, call 1 (888) 782-4589, go to www.comedyworks.org or e-mail joeynovick@earthlink.net.
Comedyworks Entertainment! Stand-up Comedy Show Fund-raising Comedians from HBO, Showtime, Comedy Central, Last Comic Standing, The Tonight Show
“Featured in the 1st Responder News, VolunteerFD.Org, EMSMagazine.Com, ABC News, and NY Times.” “Outstanding Comedy Show! Best fundraising night we have ever had!” Somerset Fire Company, NJ
Comedyworks Entertainment!
w w w. c o m e d y w o r k s . o r g call toll free: 1(888)782-4589 e-mail: JoeyNovick@earthlink.net
PAGE 24
February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
FIREFIGHTER PROFILES If you have photos you would like to see in our Profiles feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
STEPHEN M WALLACE
Blaze puts Rapids to work on Christmas At approximately 3 p.m. on December 25th, the alarm went off for a working structure barn fire on Simms Road. Rapids Fire Chief Barry Kobrin could see the smoke a half mile away. Chief Kobrin also realized that just two days ago, this was one of the roads flooded by the ice storm and rapid thaw leaving it under four feet of water. The weather dropped again on Christmas to 8 degrees and the water receded, but left behind a slick layer of ice. On scene 1st Assistant Chief Joe Fries and Chief Kobrin had a wood and metal structure fully engulfed with heavy flames coming
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from all four sides. Fries did a walk around and had propane tanks removed from the side of the building. It was to dangerous to get to a number of small fuel holders. The Rapids first in engine pulled hand lines in and started the attack. The next engine laid in over 600 feet of five inch from the closets hydrant almost a block away. Wolcottsville Fire Company was called to the scene. The two companies under the command of
Kobrin and fire scene officer Fries made a fast attack, holding the damage to the building and preventing it from getting to the house and the farm tractor on the non wind fire side. Once the roof collapsed, it took firefighters over an hour to make sure all hidden hot spots were extinqushed. The town had sent in a payloader to rip the remaining walls down to make sure no hidden areas were still burning. Firefighter Mike Owens received on scene care. Niagara County Sheriff deputies and State Police also responded to the scene.
COURTESY OF AMBER OWENS
Lockport, NY. Michael Owens has never been a fire chief or held any office in any company he has ever belonged to. Never made news for saving someone in a dramatic rescue. It's never been about that for him. A proud NYS volunteer firefighter and EMT for over 30 years, he has quietly gone on calls, getting up a little earlier and staying a little later. It's sometimes hard for responders' families to understand the level of interest and devotion. The interrupted game of catch, the half-mowed lawn, the IOU in lieu of the bedtime story, a romantic movie night and the call that never fails in the middle of dinner. Knowing his abrupt absences from our dinner table means others will live to attend theirs. I look upon it as a blessing rather than a burden, a necessary sacrifice all members' families make. It takes a special person to give 110% of themselves day or night, a man that selflessly goes without dinner and adequate sleep to help others, who goes to bed half-dressed just in case "the big one" strikes.The same man I'm proud to call my husband, my friend, my herd.
- STEPHEN WALLACE
MIKE CAREY
Albany chief announces retirement
BOB ROOT
Chimney fire with extension Town of Newburgh, NY. On the evening of December 13th, alerts were sounded for a working fire at 60 Stacy Lee Drive in the area of Frozen Ridge Road. Command arrived to find a chimney fire with extension to the roof and walls. He requested the second alarm and a tanker task force for
JUMP TO FILE #011514107
the 75 x 75 residential structure fire in a two and a half story wood frame. Multiple Ulster County departments were utilized for the tanker task force. Several Orange County
departments were at the scene as well as on standby. The fire was quickly extinguished and additional extension was negative. Units conducted overhaul operations and mutual aid departments were soon released. - HEATHER PILLSWORTH
Albany, NY. The City of Albany is getting a new fire chief. On Monday, December 9th, Robert Forezzi announced that he's retiring as chief on January 1st. Forezzi became a firefighter in 1974 and worked his way up through the ranks. Mayor Jerry Jennings appointed him deputy chief in 2002, and then named him chief in 2006. "Chief Forezzi has provided exemplary leadership to the department," said Jennings, who's ending his 20 year run as mayor January 1st. "(Forezzi)'s nearly 40 year commitment to public safety is in and of itself a testament to his professionalism." During his tenure, Forezzi initiated a number of programs, in-
JUMP TO FILE #121013100
cluding Explorer Post 343, the summer Cadet program, development of a K-5 fire prevention reading program, and a first of its kind EMT class at Albany High School. "Although I leave with a heavy heart," said Forezzi, "I look forward to enjoying my retirement and will never forget where I came from." Appointing a new chief will be one of the first tasks for incoming mayor Kathy Sheehan, who takes over the position January 1st. The Albany Fire Department consists of 245 members and 16 companies. - JEFFREY GOLDBERG
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
February, 2014
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February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
JOHN SPAULDING
Logging truck Memorial remembrance in Buffalo overturns in Clifton
DAVID F. KAZMIERCZAK
chili, NY - The clifton Fire Department with mutual aid from the chili Fire Department responded to a truck rolled over on Stottle Road at the intersection of Scottsville chili Road on a cold and snowy evening. The driver was pinned momentarily, and walked away without injury. He subsequently was charged by the monroe county Sheriff's Office for DWI. chili Ambulance and Gates paramedics also responded. The roads were partially closed for over an hour as Jim's Service of churchville recovered the truck.
Buffalo, NY. Firefighters observed the 30th Anniversary of the tragic propane explosion at N. Division and Grosvenor St. on Friday evening, December 27, 2013. Many retirees including the commissioner of fire at the time of the blast, Fred D. Langdon, were on hand. Division Chief Don McFeely, who was Captain of Ladder Co. 5 at the time of the 1983 explosion, reflected on that night along with Ret. Buffalo Fire Department Chaplain
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Msgr. Albert W. Clody. Firefighters have gathered at the site for the past thirty years. In the past few, the numbers have grown to over a hundred people. The memorial is an old Buffalo Fire Department pedestal and alarm box. There were seven trees planted, five in the front representing the
firefighters from Ladder Co. 5 and two behind the five, representing the civilians who died that tragic day. The fallen brothers were Firefighter Michael Austin, Firefighter Michael Catanzaro, Firefighter Matthew Colpoys, Firefighter James "Red" Lickfeld and Firefighter Anthony Waszkielewicz. The civilians were Mr. Alfred Arnold and Mrs. Jessie Arnold. - DAvID F. KAzmIERczAK
JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER
Early morning vacant dwelling fire The city of Albany responded to an alarm of fire at 579 clinton Ave. multiple calls came in for a vacant building that was on fire on clinton Avenue. Engine 7, the first arriving unit, called a Signal 30. They had fire showing in the rear of the building and deployed a one and three quarter inch hand line and made quick work of the fire. crews searched the home, but all searches came up negative. Fire crews had the fire out and under control in 15 minutes.
BOB ROOT
Arson K-9 requested at blaze City of Newburgh, NY. An arson K-9 was requested to a blaze in the City of Newburgh on January 14th. Firefighters were alerted to a working fire at 295 Liberty Street at approximately 10:30 p.m. in a three story mixed OMD with reports of victims bailing out windows onto fire escapes. EMS were on scene for patient treatment and transport. Firefight-
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ers found a rubbish fire in the first floor hallway and quickly knocked it down. A search was made for extension, but found to be negative. Fire investigators were brought to the scene including Daisy, a trained K-9 from the Westchester County Police. Daisy is a black
labrador retriever and came from the "Paws with a Cause" program acquired through a scholarship and sponsored by State Farm Insurance. Daisy's keen sense of smell can detect accelerant odor in amounts smaller than parts-per-million. She is a full-time member of the Westchester County Police and her badge number is 2016A. - HEATHER PILLSWORTH
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
February, 2014
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February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
STEPHEN M WALLACE
Air pack equipped, the nozzle firefighter moved in
BOB ROOT
WCVFC handles working car fire The sheriff’s department started received calls for a car fire on Day Road between the Erie Canal and Rt 31. Niagara County Sheriff Deputy D Zimmerman reported heavy fire from the engine of a passenger car. Zimmerman battled his way through deep snow to make sure all the passenger and driver were safe along a yard just north of the fire. Wrights Corners Assistant Chief arrived with their first in engine.
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The assistant chief pulled off the primary attack line while the pump operator got the engine in gear and water ready to flow. The next in firefighter was equipped with his air pack and took the nozzle end of the hose to make the initial attack.
Minor accident in Town of Newburgh
The car had just cleared the railroad overpass when it burst into flames. Fire police shut the roadway down until the fire was put out and it was safe for a tow truck to remove the vehicle. The fire started in the engine compartment and is under investigation. No injuries were reported.
Town of Newburgh, NY. On the afternoon of December 28, 2013, the Good-Will Fire Department was alerted to a motor vehicle accident on Little Britain Road at Old Little Britain Road. Town of Newburgh Police arrived to find two vehicles involved. The cause of the accident is under investigation.
- STEPHEN WALLACE
Vehicle News
NORTH EASTERN RESCUE VEHICLES, INC
NORTH EASTERN RESCUE VEHICLES, INC
The Altona Volunteer Fire Department recently took de- The Greater Amsterdam Volunteer Ambulance Corp. relivery of their new 2013 Midwest Fire Pumper Tanker cently put this Demers Sprinter into service that was purchased from Bob Reilly of North Eastern Rescue Vehicles, Inc.
Bainbridge Volunteer Fire Department recently put this Road Rescue Chevy Ultramedic into service that was purchased from Bob Reilly of North Eastern Rescue Vehicles, Inc.
MIKE NOWACKI
NORTH EASTERN RESCUE VEHICLES, INC
CAMERON GARRAND
NORTH EASTERN RESCUE VEHICLES, INC
The Town of Brighton recently put this Demers Sprinter Raymond Hose Company #2 of the Warwick Fire De- North Seneca Ambulance, Inc. recently put this Demers into service that was purchased from North Eastern partment placed into service Tanker 639, a 2012 Mack/4 T-I 4X4 into service that was purchased from North EastRescue Vehicles, Inc. Guys with a 1000 gpm and 3500 gallon water tank. ern Rescue Vehicles, Inc.
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
February, 2014
Page 29
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February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
BOB ROOT
DAVID F. KAZMIERCZAK
Victim burned in apartment fire Buffalo firefighters of the 7th Battalion 1st Platoon responded to an apartment fire at 191 Orleans St. in the city's Kensington Heights section on December 18, 2013. Firefighters arrived to find a badly burned woman, who fled her burning apartment. An additional engine and truck were requested. Division Chief Patrick Brittzalaro requested the balance of a second alarm. Damage was extensive and the cause of the fire is under investigation. All of the other occupants of nearby apartments escaped safely.
Vails Gate has the quick knock Vails Gate Fire Department was dispatched at approximately 5:05 a.m. on December 23rd for a reported fire in the strip mall next to the Mobil station at 1101 Rt. 94. NWPD and Car 3, Asst. Chief Ken Rypkema, located the fire over half mile away at 1244 Rt. 94. Fire was showing out the windows on the first floor of a two story commercial building. The fire originated in the deli on the first floor. A hair salon also on the first floor suffered smoke damage. The second floor consisted of office space, which also suffered smoke damage. Upon arrival, Car 1 transmitted a second alarm, which brought an engine from Salisbury Mills to the scene as well as an engine from the City of Newburgh as the FAST unit. First arriving E-478 laid 700 feet of supply line from a hydrant and then stretched a two and a half inch line to the front door and
JUMP TO FILE #122313119
began attacking the fire. T-482 was positioned in the front of the building. The crew began opening up inside the deli and also operated from the bucket to pull the siding from the front of the building. T-484 positioned on the 3/4 corner of the building, and the crew began checking the adjoining occupancy for extension. E-481’s crew stretched a second line to back-up the attack line. R-480’s crew proceeded to the second floor to check for extension and perform primary searches, both of which were negative. Salisbury Mills E-560’s crew assisted with overhaul and provided relief. The main body of fire was knocked down within a few minutes of arrival. Salisbury Mills and
the City of Newburgh were released within about 30 minutes, and Vails Gate units remained on the scene until about 6:30 a.m. completing overhaul and assisting the Town of New Windsor fire inspector and police with the investigation. The fire inspector has ruled the fire to be accidental, although the exact cause remains undetermined. An engine from New Windsor and ladder from Cornwall stood by at Vails Gate Station 1 for the duration of the incident. Approximately 30 Vails Gate members operated at the scene, along with eight from Salisbury Mills and four from the City of Newburgh. New Windsor EMS provided stand by at the scene as well as rehab services. There were no injuries to firefighters or civilians. - CHRIS SWEENEY
ANTIQUE APPARATUS If you have photos for Antique Apparatus please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com
RUSH FIRE DEPARTMENT
Rush MVA injures male On December 21 at 5:39 a.m., Rush Fire Department and EMS were dispatched to 2729 Pinnacle Road for a car off the road into trees. Ambulance 589, Rescue 588, and Pumpers 582 and 583 responded. A severely injured male operator of the vehicle was trapped. His car had taken out a seven inch diameter pine tree and the engine of the car was ripped out. HVA took care of the patient and Rush Rescue 588 crew put up the light tower and extricated the victim with the "jaws of life" in 12 minutes. The male victim was transported by HVA ALS to Strong Memorial Hospital. The Monroe County sheriff is investigating the crash.
MIKE NOWACKI
Raymond Hose Company #2 1936 Sanford Engine
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
February, 2014
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February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
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February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
BOB ROOT
Two car accident in Town of Newburgh On December 22, 2013, Winona Lake Engine Company was alerted to a two vehicle collision on Route 17K. They arrived to find major damage to two vehicles. All injured patients were packaged and transported to local hospitals for treatment.
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2012 Rescue 1 rescue demo is available for immediate delivery. 16’-3” Walk-Around/International 4400 four-door chassis, five-man seating, and MaxxForce 9/315 hp engine. PTO 35 kw generator, 9000 watt Will-Burt light tower, fold down ladder to (4) upper storage compartments, 9000 lb portable winch and much more. For additional details visit our Website: www.rescue1mfg.com or contact Mike Marquis at (800) 752-8786, (732) 223-1411 (in NJ), mmarquis@plcustom.com.
For Sale First Priority Renaissance Horton Type III Ambulance on a Ford E 450 Gasoline Chassis. New Electrical System, New Interior LED Lighting, New Exterior Emergency LED Lighting, Plus much more... Call us at 800-247-7725 for additional information. $95,000 Ford Government Pricing Concession discounts available on these units, as applicable.
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Quick stop by Troy City of Troy was toned for alarm of fire at 330 1st Street. the first arriving police unit reported heavy smoke coming from the back of the house. Engine 6 on arrival called a Signal 30, working fire. Crews forced entry into the building and discovered a working kitchen fire. Fire crews made a quick knockdown. All the residents got out including their pets. The fire is under investigation.
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February, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
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Tyler Fire Equipment, LLC. 703 Erie Street, Elmira, NY 14904 • 1332 Broadway, Albany, NY 12204 • 7048 Interstate Island Road, Syracuse, NY 13209 Phone (800) 352-2079 Fax (607) 734-1951 • tylerfire.com