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DECEMBER, 2014 JANUARY, 2017
JOHN SMITH
Lackawanna, NY - On November 9th, the Lackawanna Fire Department was dispatched to Route-5 for a structure fire at the Bethlehem steel plant. A Lackawanna fire unit went on-scene and reported a working fire. - See full story on page 14
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Happy Holidays! To our advertisers and readers
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January, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
JEFFREY ARNOLD
Fire Destroys Barn in Geneseo Geneseo, NY - At 10:25 A.M. on Tuesday, November 11th, Geneseo firefighters were dispatched to a barn fire on Elm Road, near Lima Road. Fire units arrived on location and found the barn fully involved. Mutual Aid was requested to the scene for tankers from Lakeville, East Avon, Livonia, Cuylerville and York Fire Departments. There were no injuries reported. Livingston County EMS, along with the Livingston County Sheriff's Office and the New York State Police, also responded to the scene. The cause of the fire was under investigation by Livingston County Emergency Management.
PEARL RIVER REPORTER
Car Crashes into Pearl River House Pearl River, NY - Pearl River Emergency Service was dispatched on November 22nd at approximately 2:00 P.M. to Gilbert Avenue and Noyes Street for reports of a car into house, with unknown injuries. Upon arrival, the ambulance crew found four teenagers standing outside of a vehicle. Their vehicle was cut off by another driver who fled the scene, but was later found by police. One of the teens was transported to a local area hospital for medical evaluation. On-scene units included Pearl River Ambulance and F.D., as well as the Orangetown P.D.
House is fully involved as crews begin initial attack.
Y. PECHENY
House in Chenango Fully Involved with Fire Chenango, NY - Just after 10:00 P.M. on the evening of November 22nd, Broome County Communications dispatched Chenango Fire (66), to 125 Kennedy Road for a house fire. With crews at the station, Chief-66 responded and was JUMP TO FILE # on-scene in less 112316128 than one minute, reporting a fully involved house. He then requested the second-alarm. Tower-66 was close behind the chief and began an attack. Chief66 reported that it was believed all occupants were out of the structure. As more units arrived, LDH was stretched from a hydrant at the end of the dead-end street to supply Tower-66. Hand lines were stretched and an aggressive transitional attack was made on the structure. The majority of fire was knocked down in under 15 minutes, but crews continued to work for several more hours. Assisting Chenango Fire at the scene was Chenango Bridge Fire (39), Prospect Terrace Fire (63), Endwell Fire FAST (31), Chenango Ambulance (73), Broome County Fire Coordinators, Broome County Fire Investigators, the Broome County Sheriff's Dept., and NYSEG. On standby during the incident were Hillcrest Fire (55), Port Dickinson Fire (35) and Whitney Point Fire (24). No injuries were reported during the incident and the fire is under investigation by Broome County Fire Investigation staff. - NICHOLAS GRISWOLD
Y. PECHENY
More Mutual Aid arrives as crews continue to work to extinguish the fire.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
January, 2017
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January, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
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Jerome Fire Equipment
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Nassau Fire Apparatus North Eastern Rescue NY Fire Chiefs
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JOHN SMITH
Multiple Crews Respond to Ellery Center Structure Fire Ellery Center, NY - On November 23rd at 12:27 P.M., the Ellery Center F.D. was dispatched to Fluvanna Town Road for a reported structure fie. A fire chief went on-scene and confirmed a working structure fire. Fire departments from Fluvanna, Gerry, Bemus Point, Maple Springs, Stockton and Ashville responded as Mutual-Aid to Ellery Center. Busti responded as the FAST team. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
9
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Spotted Dog Technologies 29 Task Force Tips
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CORPORATE INFORMATION
1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New York edition - Vol. 18 No. 1 - 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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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.
TODD BENDER
Fairview Responds to Smoke Showing from DCC Dorm
Fairview, NY - On November 23rd, Fairview FD 41-12 and 4145 were dispatched to Conklin Hall, a dorm at Dutchess Community College, for a report of smoke on the fourthfloor. The first-due engine confirmed the smoke, which caused City of Poughkeepsie E-2 to backfill Fairview's headquarters. Fans were deployed while the investigation took place. The cause of the smoke was the result of a burned out blower motor. Fairview was back in service at 10:21 A.M.
After 9/11, famed actor Steve Buscemi rejoined the New York Fire Department to help firefighters sift through the rubble of the World Trade Center.
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
January, 2017
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January, 2017
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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: Alfred A. Stewart, 79 Rank: Firefighter (Former Fire Chief) Incident Date: November 6, 2016 Death Date: November 6, 2016 Fire Department: West Milford Volunteer Fire Company #6 Initial Summary: Firefighter Stewart reported to the fire station for a company drill. He remained alone at the station to perform maintenance duties while other company members attended the drill. At some point, Stewart ascended a ladder inside the station for these maintenance duties. When fire department personnel returned from the drill, they found Stewart entangled in the fallen ladder. Despite lifesaving efforts, Steward was pronounced dead shortly thereafter. It is unknown whether Stewart suffered a medical emergency while atop the ladder and then fell, or if the ladder had fallen while he was on it, causing his trauma. An autopsy is pending to determine the official cause of Firefighter Stewart's death.
Indiana: Michael Payne, 58 Rank: Fire Chief Incident Date: November 7, 2016 Death Date: November 8, 2016 Fire Department: Brookston Prairie Township Fire Department Initial Summary: Chief Michael Payne and members of his department responded to a truck fire on Interstate-65 north of Lafayette, IN, just before midnight on 11/07/2016. After the fire was extinguished, Chief Payne fell ill and collapsed. Lifesaving efforts were initiated and Chief Payne was transported to Indiana University Hospital (Lafayette) where those efforts continued until he passed away at approximately 0145hrs on 11/08/2016.
Georgia: Michael W. Curry, 42 Rank: Master Firefighter Incident Date: November 19, 2016 Death Date: November 19, 2016 Fire Department: Savannah Fire & Emergency Services Initial Summary: Master Firefighter Curry was involved in operations at an emergency incident on River Street late Saturday afternoon when he suffered an apparent medical condition. Emergency medical personnel attended to Curry on the scene and were escorted in their transport of the firefighter to Memorial University Medical Center. Curry passed away at the hospital Saturday evening.
Kentucky: Ted Rodney Collett, 41 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: October 29, 2016 Death Date: November 17, 2016 Fire Department: Red Bird Volunteer Fire & Rescue Initial Summary: Firefighter Collett suffered head and arm injuries on October 29th while working a wildland fire incident when a tree limb fell and struck him and the fire apparatus he was on. Firefighter Collett was airlifted to Pikeville Medical Center for treatment but succumbed to his injuries the evening of November 17th.
New York: Merle L. Nell, 78 Rank: Fire Police Captain Incident Date: November 26, 2016 Death Date: November 26, 2016 Fire Department: Volunteer Fire Company of Vernon Initial Summary: After becoming ill while working on a mutual aid fire call with his fire department, Fire Police Captain Nell passed away in the hospital from a nature and cause of fatal injury still to be reported.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
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January, 2017
JOHN HOPPER
All-Hands Garage Fire in Yonkers Yonkers, NY - At approximately 5:30 P.M. on Monday, November 21st, Yonkers Fire Department units were toned out to 73 Delano Avenue at Harding Avenue, for a possible structure fire. Engine-307 and Rescue-1 arrived on-scene as firstdue and found a garage on fire, located in the rear of the house. Battalion-1 then arrived on-scene and transmitted an "All Hands." One line was stretched and the fire was quickly knocked down. The incident was placed under control with an approximate 30 minute duration.
BOB MCCORMICK
One Dead in New Windsor Car Crash
New Windsor, NY - The New Windsor FD and New Windsor EMS were dispatched to a one-car MVA on River Road in the area of Newburgh Towing, on the morning of November 21st. The New Windsor Police also responded to the scene. Once it was determined that the subject driving the vehicle was dead-on-arrival, FD and EMS personnel returned to their quarters. The New Windsor PD then blocked off the road and started their investigation. The driver of the vehicle was later identified as 24-year-old Richard Carlucci from Newburgh. The circumstances and cause of the accident are currently being investigated by the Town of New Windsor Police Department’s Detective Division, as well as the Accident Reconstruction Unit.
We Buy and Sell Used Fire Apparatus Vehicles purchased by Red Truck Sales Inc.
Thank you to the West Ridge FD
Thank you to the Plainview FD
Thank you to the Plainview Fire District
Thank you to the Islip Fire District
Phone: 631.612.8712 • www.RedTruckSales.com 577 Brook Ave. Deer Park, NY 11729
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January, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
HE HE ER ERO ROES RO OES ES INK INK
1st Responder Newspaper er features EMERGENCY SERVICES RELA ATED TATTOOS
Troy Fire Dept. laying in on the second-alarm.
SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY
Second Alarm Fire in Troy’s Taylor Apartments Troy, NY - Multiple calls came in on November 23rd for a smoke condition throughout the building of Taylor Apartments. On arrival, Troy F.D. Engine-6 had nothing showing from the outside. After further inspection, 106 transmitted a Signal-30 for a working fire in the compactor room. At the request of the battalion chief on-scene, a second-alarm was transmitted due to the size of the occupancy, as well as a second
JUMP TO FILE #112316134 report coming through for a fire on the ninth-floor. Engine-4 and Engine-2 both hit the hydrants on all sides of the building, establishing a water supply. Engine-6 pulled a hand line into the building, knocking down the fire in the compactor room. Firefighters checked all floors for any type of extension into the
building, including the ninth-floor, where there was a report of a second fire. Firefighters found nothing on the ninth-floor, except for smoke caused by the compactor fire. Crews had the fire knocked down quickly and then began ventilating the building. There was minimal damage to the building and no injuries were reported. The fire is currently under investigation. - JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER
EMS
If you have photos for EMS please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
Eric Moore has been a firefighter for almost 30 years, first joining the department in November of 1988. The tattoo he chose to get covers his entire back and took almost three months to complete, from September until November of 2014. When asked what inspired him to get this specific tattoo, Eric responded "my inspiration came from the love for my brothers lost on that fateful day and the need for a tribute, as well as my love for what we do and my love of ink." Eric currently works for Daly City Fire Department, located in Daly City, CA.
Would you like your emergency services related tattoo featured here? Contact Lindsey at
Lindsey@1strespondernews.com
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Call Today! 1.800.247.7725 TODD BENDER
Poughkeepsie, NY - Mobile Life Support Services responded to a call on November 30th, for a man down in front of 137 Washington Street. EMS workers transported the elderly patient to a local hospital for treatment.
January, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
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North Eastern wishes all of our past and future customers a safe and happy holiday season!
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TODD BENDER
MVA Injures Town of Poughkeepsie Police Officer Poughkeepsie, NY - A Town of Poughkeepsie police officer was injured in an MVA while responding to another call on November 21st. Town and City of Poughkeepsie police were assisted at the scene by the City of Poughkeepsie FD and Mobile Life. The accident is currently under investigation.
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PAGE 10
January, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
TODD BENDER
TODD BENDER
Chimney Fire Draws Three Departments Rombout, NY - On November 22nd at 5:56 P.M., the Rombout Fire Department was dispatched for reports of a chimney fire with possible wall extension, in a single-family dwelling located at 18 Sandi Lane. Rombout handled the call quickly with the assistance of the Fishkill and East Fishkill Fire Departments.
D ID YOU K NOW No one knows who invented the fire hydrant because its patent was actually destroyed in a fire.
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
Danger, Danger EMS ISSUE
CHELLE CORDERO
EMS crews constantly deal with contagious airborne and blood borne diseases. We respond to calls in all weather conditions. We deal with agitated patients and their families. Paramedics, EMT's, and all members of the ambulance crew, are exposed to all kinds of illness, infections and possible toxins, many of which we can’t see or don’t know about until after the fact. We are trained to protect ourselves where we can with scene awareness, protective gear, cleanliness and brains. Just like any other first responder though, not everything in the textbooks is followed by our patients or the scenarios we encounter. What are some of the things we can do to (hopefully) keep us on the job, be there for the people who count on us, and bring us home to our families at the end of each shift? Scene Safety — We can never impress this too much. Survey the scene as you arrive. If you are indoors, notice exits, the normal household items that can pose a danger, along with who else is present and where. When outdoors, notice possible hazards, such as downed power lines, ice, roads and traffic, other people, animals and terrain. In situations with probable threats involving weapons or other violence, call for police assistance, even if it means a delay to your response. And one of the most ignored rules of response, buckle up while en-route to the scene. BSI — Use gloves and eye coverings (personal protective gear), with every call. Just because you put the gloves ON does not mean that you don’t need to change them, throw out the used gloves and clean any and all surfaces you touch with the contaminated gloves. Think about it: you took care of the patient on-scene, loaded them into the ambulance touching the working parts of the stretcher, you used your gloved hands to take a blood pressure and auscultate lung sounds, maybe you used a walkie-talkie or the rig radio to call the hospital, and you used a pen to write your patient report. At what point did those gloves come off? Did you throw them out immediately? (Don’t pocket them)! Think of everything you touched with the gloves and later with your bare hands, even the pen from your pocket to write your PCR, and also think of
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all the contaminants you passed around to yourself, your crew and even the next crew and patient to be in that ambulance. There should be no such thing as a one-glove call. Change them often and clean every surface after each call AND before each shift while wearing clean gloves. Don’t forget to clean the stethoscope, the pen and the BP cuff, etc. Don’t spread the germs to your co-workers, your future patients, or your family at home. HAZMAT — Never run blindly into a scene with multiple unconscious patients without knowing WHY so many have been incapacitated. Suspect a hazardous material or toxin and call for the appropriate response. Likewise, be careful about opening closed car doors with unconscious patients inside. You can read OSHA’s "Best Practices for Protecting EMS Responders" online at http://bit.ly/2gpIYIf
January, 2017
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Burning Dinner in Vacant Apartment Brings PFD Poughkeepsie, NY - On Thanksgiving morning, November 24th, the Poughkeepsie FD was dispatched to a multi-family dwelling, located on Main Street, for a strong burning odor. The caller advised that the second-floor alarm had been JUMP TO FILE# sounding for about 112416103 an hour. Upon arrival, the firefighters forced entry and found heavy smoke conditions. An investigation determined that the apartment was vacant, including the absence of furniture. The smoke condition was found to be from a turkey and ham that were being cooked in the oven. No neighbors took credit for the unattended culinary treats. - TODD BENDER
PFD racking hose back onto E-3.
TODD BENDER
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January, 2017
Tallman Fire Department.
Suffer Fire Department.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
BILL TOMPKINS – WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM JEFFREY ARNOLD
BILL TOMPKINS – WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
JEFFREY ARNOLD
First Snowfall of Season Brings MVA in Livonia
Livonia, NY - On Sunday, November 20th at approximately 3:30 P.M., Town of Livonia F.D.'s Livonia, Hemlock and Lakeville, were dispatched to an MVA with entrapment on Stone Hill Road. Units arrived on location and found a car in a ditch, with the driver trapped in the vehicle. The driver was extricated by firefighters and transported by Livonia EMS to Strong Memorial Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. A passenger was also transported. The Livingston County Sheriff's Office also assisted at the scene. Neversink Engine Co. from Port Jervis, NY.
BILL TOMPKINS – WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
APPARATUS IN ACTION
If you have photos for Apparatus In Action, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
BILL TOMPKINS – WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
Orangeburg Fire Department.
Wallington, NJ - The 15th annual Wallington Fire Department Holiday Parade was held on November 26th, where several hundred emergency vehicles, motorcycles, floats and commercial trucks, covered in holiday lights and music, snaked through the borough streets to the delight of everybody in attendance. Several fire departments from New York also came down to participate in the parade with their apparatus.
Newburgh, NY - On November 19th, the Winona Lake F.D. brought Santa Clause to the Newburgh Mall, where over 50 kids were waiting patiently outside for him to arrive by fire engine. VINNIE DOMINICK
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
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January, 2017
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.
VINNIE DOMINICK
Car Takes Down Pole in Newburgh Newburgh, NY - Units responded at 4:00 A.M. on Thursday, November 24th, for reports of a car-versus-pole, located next to Gardnertown Church. The accident was caused by the driver of the vehicle going too fast on the icy road conditions. The vehicle took down a pole and transformer, before landing on its roof. The driver was taken to the hospital with unknown injuries.
DAMIEN DANIS
Buffalo, NY - Buffalo Fire Department's Engine-36 is a 2016, E-One Cyclone ll, 1750/730/50.
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January, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
Multiple Crews Respond to Blaze in Lackawanna Lackawanna, NY - On November 9th, the Lackawanna Fire Department was dispatched to Route-5 for a structure fire at the Bethlehem steel plant. A Lackawanna fire unit went on-scene and reported a working fire. The City of JUMP TO FILE# Lackawanna Devel- 110916109 opment Director Fred Heinle reported that 60-to-70 percent of the building was occupied with boats, trailers and other vehicles. Heinle also said that there was a plastic warehousing facility on-site that could have caused the black smoke. Buffalo Fire Commissioner Garnell Whitfield said that his department was helping fight the fire. He stated that it was a complicated scene, as firefighters could not go inside the building initially because it was not structurally sound. He also said parts of several buildings were collapsing. Units at the scene reported huge plumes of black smoke continuing to pour out of the building, visible from miles away. A worker spotted the fire around 7:00 A.M. and called 911. Fire crews at the
scene also said they heard several explosions coming from the building. The roof collapsed around 8:30 A.M. Officials said there were no chemicals burning, but various plastics and wood were fueling the fire. Some firefighters who were inside of the building tried to suppress hot spots, but had to be pulled out as the fire began to spread again. One Buffalo firefighter twisted and broke his ankle as he was pulling hoses. More than 100 firefighters were called to the scene, as well as representatives from the Department of Environmental Conservation, the Environmental Protection Agency and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Hazmat crews from Buffalo, as well as Hamburg, Erie, Niagara and Chautauqua Counties, were also called to the scene. Fire departments from Lackawanna, Buffalo, Woodlawn, Lakeview and Lake Shore also responded. Sunset Bay from Chautauqua County stood-by at Evan's Center Fire Department. The cause of the fire is under investigation. - JOHN SMITH
JOHN SMITH
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
January, 2017
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January, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
Toys 4 Tots Convoy travels through Ballston Spa Village.
BOB MCCORMICK
Two-Car MVA in Town of Newburgh Newburgh, NY - On November 29th, the Goodwill FD and Town of Newburgh Police were dispatched for a two-car accident, located just off Route-300, on Old Little Britain Road. Town of Newburgh EMS also responded to the scene. Firefighters assisted in traffic control and disconnecting the battery of one vehicle. The Town of Newburgh PD are investigating the cause of the accident.
STAN DE LONG
Toys 4 Tots Convoy Travels Through Ballston Spa Ballston Spa, NY - There was a convoy in town on the morning on November 27th, and this convoy was something special! Unlike the popular movie 'Convoy' from 1978, starring Kris Kristofferson, this convoy had a different meaning and purpose, proving a point pertaining to truckers across the country. That purpose was for public safety agencies abroad to collect toys ahead of time, before lining up at the Ballston Spa Central School District campus to prepare
JUMP TO FILE #112716105 for a Christmas convoy. A convoy of police vehicles, fire trucks, ambulances, tow trucks and big rig cabs carried several hundreds of toys to be handed off to the United States Marines Corps annual toy drive, known as "Toys for Tots," which would then be distributed throughout the capital region and abroad for children who are less fortunate at Christmas time.
This year, the convoy traveled through the Village of Ballston Spa with red and white lights flashing, sirens blaring and air horns sounding. The approximate five-mile trip ended at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center at the Spa State Park, located in Saratoga Springs. The convoy was coordinated by the United States Marine Corps and the Saratoga County Sheriff's Office. - STAN DE LONG
Vehicle News
JEFFREY ARNOLD
Three Alarm Fire at Rochester Chinese Restaurant Rochester, NY - On Saturday, November 19th at 9:30 P.M., Rochester firefighters responded to a three-alarm blaze at Jing Li Restaurant, located at 1679 Mt. Hope Ave. in the Mt. Hope Plaza. The fire was brought under control in about one hour. The cause of the fire was under investigation, but appeared to be accidental in nature. There were no injuries reported.
MATHEW MOLINARO
Ulster, NY - The officers and members of Ulster Hose Co. #5 are proud to announce the delivery of their new Seagrave Heavy Rescue/Dive Unit, which will will respond as a special call/services unit in their district and several mutual aid areas.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
January, 2017
PAGE 17
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January, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
Firefighter Safety Requires Proper Attitude STAYING SAFE
Chief Henry Campbell
No matter what your mom, dad, best friend, or lawyer tells you, somewhere along the line, you have to buy into your personal safety. You must be an active participant, concerned with staying out of harm’s way. This is a shared responsibility beginning with you and progressing up the chain of command to the Chief, with each higher rank bearing an even greater share of responsibility for themselves and their subordinates. Firefighter safety requires PROPER ATTITUDE. You must be in the mindset that you will be alert and concerned for your own personal safety at all times, while complying with department policies, rules and training procedures, regardless of your own personal opinion. While concerned for your own safety, you will look out for and be aware of your fellow firefighters and their actions, and prevent them from performing unsafe acts. There may be some of you who may disagree; believing looking after others (as mentioned previously), is someone else’s responsibility. Wrong! If your fellow firefighter is doing something that can precipitate injury and/or death to himself/herself, and you stand by idly, you and others may become a casualty as a result of his/her unsafe act. Intervene to stop the unsafe act! We are all in this together and getting back home the way you showed up is what firefighter safety is all about. There is no better definition of firefighter safety! There are those believers in the trenches who will try to convince you that firefighter safety has taken the aggressiveness out of firefighting. Safety is not, nor should be, a deterrent to aggressive firefighting. That is what we are all about. Aggressive firefighting can take place within the constraints of safety, and need not delay rescue and rapid knockdown. What it requires is a good size up, good command structure, and thinking before acting. Your personal size up and the incident commanders size up will indicate whether an aggressive offensive assault can be safely implemented, or if a defensive posture should be the initial game plan. For many in the fire service, there exists a hidden bravado that firefighting is one of the most dangerous, if not the most dangerous profession, and with that comes death and injuries. Not necessarily so! Will we eliminate all death and injury? Probably not in my lifetime, but we must continue to reduce the annual toll. It is long past time to deflate the bravado of the “most dangerous occupation." There have been many changes in the fire service relative to firefighter safety over the past dozen or so years and what
they require is implementation and structured discipline to be effective. Talking about safety is not the same as practicing safety. In the past, we have rung our hands, shed our tears, offered our apologies and chalked it up to the dangers of the job. In time, we would once again proceed down the same well-worn path, one that often led to injury and death, learning absolutely nothing from the previous incidents. When will we learn? When do we say, “Enough is enough!”? We can no longer boast and maintain a "macho" image that includes avoidable pain and suffering or injury and death as a result. The incidents of death and injury that were the result of poor or no training, lack of supervision, insufficient personnel, failure to use protective gear and equipment, no accountability, complacency, laziness and/or sheer stupidity, contribute to a needless annual toll. We may be considered America’s Heroes, but we don’t have to prove it by “shooting ourselves in the foot” to maintain the image, as some of our injuries and deaths may have been avoided. Safety requires each of us to have the attitude to stay safe in all we do. We owe it to ourselves, our families, our department and the communities we serve. Till next time, Stay Safe and God Bless!
BOB MCCORMICK
Tractor Trailer Rollover on I-84 Causes Major Delays
Newburgh, NY - The Middlehope FD was dispatched to a tractor trailer rollover on Interstate-84 eastbound, located just before the Newburgh/Beacon bridge entrance, on November 14th. An Estes double trailer was heading eastbound when the second trailer struck a guard rail. Cargo from the trailer was spilled and went down a bank, onto Commonwealth Avenue. Middlehope firefighters secured the Commonwealth Ave. scene and I-84 was closed to traffic. Middlehope stood-by at the scene and the New York State Police were investigating. Interstate-84 being shut down caused a major traffic back up until the state police opened up one lane.
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Wynantskill Holds First Annual “Firefighters Against Addiction” Chili Cook Off Wynantskill, NY - The Wynantskill Station Café, located on Main Ave. in North Greenbush, was host to the first annual "Firefighters Against Addiction" chili cook off, held on November 14th. Four fire departments took part in the event, including Brunswick No.1, Troy, Wynantskill and Defreestville, along with the Capital Re- JUMP TO FILE# 111416135 gion F.O.O.L.S and Wynantskill Station Café. Making their first appearance in the chili contest in the capital region was Brunswick Fire Company No.1, with their "Chest Pain" chili. Firefighters and guests packed the small café, trying some of the best and hottest chili throughout the capital region. Guests voted on the hottest, most unique and 1st place chilis. The funds from the event went to two great causes, including Rensselaer County Stop DWI and the Hudson Mohawk Recovery Center. The event brought great success in raising funds for the two organizations. After hours of taste testing the chilis, the winners were picked. The 'hottest' chili went to Defreestville Fire Department, while the 'most
All of the competitors from the first annual "Firefighters Against Addiction" chili cook off.
unique' went to the Wynantskill Fire Department. The overall win-
ner by people's choice was the Wynantskill Station Café. This
SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY
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Firemen of the Bronx VIDEO REVIEW
Video reviews by John Malecky
Firemen of the Bronx By Monarch Films Available from: FSP Books & Videos 118 Central Street, Suite #4 Hudson, MA 01749-1330 1-800-522-8528 e-mail: support@fire-policeems.com www.fire-police-ems.com Price: $14.99 (DVD) This is a short, 35 minute video of a two week period in which the producers rode with two fire marshals in the Bronx. These events took place before 9/11. Marshals are essentially arson investigators. In New York, they call them “criminal fires” and most of the fires in the Bronx at the time were from arson. The boro has 65 fire stations, at least during the time of this video. Though the title has “of” on the jacket, the actual movie is entitled “in” (Firemen in the Bronx). This is a quick moving video which is narrated. The viewer can also hear the voices of the firefighters up close. Most all of the fires are in vacant or occupied multiple dwellings, which the fire department describes as “brick” construction, while textbooks describe the category as “ordinary” construction. The description of the video states that nine firefighters died while fighting what was deemed as arson fires. There is no location given for any of the fires and the camera jumps around. In one case, a child was rescued by a firefighter and some time is devoted to that story. Another incident involved a rescue company (I suppose), reporting to the emergency room of a hospital to load a man of over 1400pounds into an ambulance for transfer. There is plenty of truck work and stream operations to see. Also, the apparatus can be seen from the past, such as solid red Mack CF/Ward pumpers, Seagrave rear mounted aerials and Mack tower ladders. In one scene, a flashover can be observed coming out of the upper story of a multi-storied building. A tribute is made for FF Peter McLaughlin, who died in the line-of-duty. In another scene, the use of a thermal imaging camera is briefly demonstrated. During the brief stay with the marshals, they explain the reasons why arson is not as prevalent today as in the past. It is the "Bronx of yesteryear" in a nutshell, and it is presented well!
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DRILLS/TRAINING
To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
Pawling, NY - Pawling F.D. Chief White arranged a drill for fire department members on Monday, November 7th, that was originally described as a “moving water� exercise. Gathered at a building in Lakeside Park, apparatus set up to feed water to Tower 54-45, operated by Captain Thomas Brown, putting water on the Donaldson building. Simultaneously, two groups of three firefighters each, put ladders up to gain entry to the building through second-floor windows. Their orders were to complete a search of the building. While the firefighters were performing their mission, Chief White ordered the ladders to be re-
moved from the exterior of the building. Shortly thereafter, three blasts from the horn of 54-45 simulated a Mayday evacuation. Interior firefighters returned to their entry windows to discover the ladders were no longer available. Tower 54-45 was used to evacuate the firefighters and return them safely to the ground. At the end of the drill, Chief White and his line officers gathered everyone around to critique the exercise, including what went right and what needs to be improved, while also listening to suggestions from all the participating members.
Pawling Firefighter Mike Brown making entry.
"Mayday."
- TODD BENDER
VINCENT GALVIN
TODD BENDER
Firefighters soaking down the fire building and cars.
JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER
Fire Erupts After Car Crashes into Albany Tavern Colonie, NY - The Midway Fire Department was dispatched on November 5th for a car-versus-building, with a report of the car on fire, located at Blessings Tavern. The first arriving police unit reported the building as fully involved. The first arriving chief JUMP TO FILE# immediately called 110516106 for the Signal-30 and a second-alarm, stating that he had a burn victim on-scene. The back of the building was heavily involved after a car traveling at a high rate of speed crashed into a truck, pushing it through the mid-level of the building. The first arriving engine pulled multiple hand lines and went to work, knocking down the heavily involved building. Firefighters from the Colonie duty crew engine made a push into the building to knock down the heavy fire and conduct a search due to multiple reports of people trapped inside. Firefighters were able to quickly bring the heavy fire inside the roof and rear of the building under control. Firefighters conducted heavy overhaul operations on-scene for most of the night. Multiple witnesses stated seeing the vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed before the crashing. The cook inside of the building was injured and taken to a local hospital. The driver of the vehicle was taken to Albany Medical Center. The tavern sustained heavy fire and structural damage. The burn victim was later identified as 16year-old Niko Dinovo, who was being treated at Westchester Medical's burn center, with third-degree burns over 95% of his body. He was placed in a sedated coma while being treated. No firefighters where injured on-scene. - JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER
JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER
The heavily damaged bar, with the truck stuck in it.
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NIOSH Calls for Annual Physicals After LODD of FF Gunther Poughkeepsie, NY - A NIOSH report was released in November after the 2015 death of City of Poughkeepsie Firefighter Timothy "Timbo" Gunther, a 54-year-old married, father of two, making several recommendations to the JUMP TO FILE# city, including the 110316104 need for annual physicals consistent with NFPA 1582, Standard on Comprehensive Occupational Medical Program for Fire Departments. The report also recommends that doctors used to evaluate the firefighters be knowledgeable about the physical demands of firefighting, the PPE used by firefighters, and the various components of NFPA 1582. A third recommendation calls for the phasein of a mandatory comprehensive wellness and fitness program for firefighters. The 21-year City of Poughkeepsie firefighting veteran, Timothy "Timbo" Gunther, answered his last call with Engine-2 on May 4, 2015, at 10:58 A.M. According to a fellow firefighter, Chris Sekul, "Timbo was an icon who died unnecessarily. Timbo was a beast when it came to working out. He put younger firefighters to shame in the exercise department."
While his external physique (complete with an enormous mustache), was in great shape, his heart and arteries were damaged. These factors, along with the stress of the job, appear to have contributed to his death at the age of 54. His fellow firefighters are outraged because the City of Poughkeepsie does not require annual physicals for members of the fire and police departments. "Physicals cost money. Not providing them, of course, saves money," said Sekul, a 15-year veteran of the city's fire department. City Mayor Rob Rolison was quoted in another paper as saying "the health and safety of our firefighters are top priorities." According to City of Poughkeepsie Fire Department Local-596 President Jim McPadden, there is nothing in the collective bargaining agreement that prohibits the city from providing and requiring annual physicals. "Our members support all of the findings and recommendations in the NIOSH report, including a mandatory comprehensive wellness and fitness program," said McPadden. Read the full NIOSH report by going to: http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/fire/reports/face201510.html - TODD BENDER
Troy's Truck-1 going to work on the roof.
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Home in Troy Destroyed by Two Alarm Blaze Troy, NY - The City of Troy Fire Dept. was toned out for an alarm of fire on November 23rd, at 14 122nd Street, when a caller JUMP TO FILE# reported the back of 112316133 a house on fire. The dispatcher reported to Car-4 that they were taking multiple calls. On arrival, Engine-1 had heavy black smoke pushing from the sec-
ond-floor of the home. Firefighters quickly learned that there were two dogs in the home. They made a search and found both dogs, rescuing them from the burning home. Firefighters from Medic-4 started CPR on one of dogs before turning it over to Troy's animal control, where it was then rushed to a Vet hospital. Command requested the second-alarm for the fire, bringing additional engine and truck companies to the scene. Firefighters that were
inside had a heavy fire condition on the second-floor and in the back of the roof on the second-floor. Firefighters made an aggressive interior attack, knocking down the fire. Heavy overhaul was then conducted until late into the morning. No firefighters were injured on-scene. Two dogs in the home unfortunately did not survive, and the home was a total loss. The fire is currently under investigation. - JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER
RICHARD BILLINGS
PFD Firefighter Timothy Gunther.
PROVIDED BY CHRIS SEKUL
Back of a Memorial shirt made in honor of "Timbo."
TODD BENDER
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FACES OF NEW YORK’S EMERGENCY SERVICES
To see your “Faces” shots in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com, email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com or mail them to 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore Street. New Windsor, NY 12553.
VINCENT GALVIN
Pawling, NY - Pawling Fire Dept. Chief White (left), critiquing a drill held on November 7th.
Delanson, NY - Firefighter Caroline Phelan of Quaker Street Fire Company at the scene of a house fire on Nov. 14th.
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Dover Plains, NY - Some of the many firefighters from JH Ketcham Hose Company.
TODD BENDER
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Colonie, NY - Two of West Albany's Finest stop for a photo after fighting a structure fire on November 14th.
ZACHARY MARICLE
Norwich, NY - Chief Pat Ford of the Norwich Fire Department directing traffic after a three-car MVA on November 4th.
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DEPARTMENT PROFILE If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Departmnt Profile” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
Dutchess Junction, NY - Nestled on the banks of the Hudson River, in the shadows of Breakneck Ridge, is the land of the Dutchess Junction Fire Company. Since July 4, 1972 the company has worked to protect their share of southern Dutchess County, while occasionally providing mutual aid to their neighbors in Dutchess and Putnam Counties. The department has about 30 members and runs approximately 45 calls-per-year. They are one of the smallest fire districts in the state of New York and approximately
70% of their district is NYS parkland, according to District Commissioner Fred Finck. The department has long been known for the appearance of Mickey Mouse on their apparatus. Mickey does ride alongs on the 1995 KME tanker, 2015 Rosenbauer engine and the Jeep Cherokee Fire Police vehicle. The only vehicle that doesn't have the famous mouse on it, is their 1986 Jeep brush truck.
Mickey Mouse on the tanker.
1986 Jeep Brush Truck.
- TODD BENDER
TODD BENDER
After 34 Years Answering Calls, 911 Dispatcher Retires Dutchess County, NY - Mark Karn, a 911 Dispatcher at Dutchess County Emergency Response, signed off the air for the last time on November 26th at 4:30 P.M. Karn had been the calming voice on the receiving end of calls to 911 for 34 years. A career that began before Dutchess County had JUMP TO FILE# a 911 system, Karn 112816123 was dispatching out of the Arlington Fire Department headquarters in Poughkeepsie, starting in 1981. Karn, according to his supervisor Pat Calamari, is known for his care and compassion. "It is hard to find someone with more care, compassion, and love than Mark. As a dispatcher, he gave 110% to every call. He's one of the best," said Calamari. In addition to being a dispatcher, Karn was hired as a career firefighter with the Arlington Fire Department in 1988, a position he held for 28 years. DeWitt Sagendorph, the former Emergency Response Coordinator for Dutchess County, was responsible for re-hiring Mark on a part-time basis back in 1988. It was a decision that both men are grateful for. According to Sagendorph, he "could always sleep a little sounder knowing Mark was on duty with his dispatch team." Karn, dispatcher 14-20, answered 500 calls as a part-time dispatcher in 2015, according to Calamari. The supervisor was quoted as saying "when you do the math, Mark has saved thousands of lives during his tenure on the phone." When asked to describe what changes he is most thankful to have experienced, Mark is thankful for
TODD BENDER
DCER Supervisor Pat Calamari (left), with recently retired Mark Karn.
the E-911 system. Prior to that, the dispatchers used to tell the callers that help was on the way and then hang up. Karn's care and compassion are much better suited to the new system, where dispatchers stay on the line with the caller. Karn was happy to recall one of the most amusing calls he received as a dispatcher. Quite a few years ago, a female caller was traveling south on the Taconic State Parkway, on her way to NYC, when she saw a deer standing on the side of the road. On her way home that evening, she saw a deer near the same location, as-
sumed it was the same animal, and called 911 to have someone go check on the deer. At Karn's retirement gathering on the night he signed off, countless members of the police, fire and EMS community gathered and a common theme was heard throughout the conversations; they were all going to miss the calm and reassuring voice of 14-20 on the air. We thank you for your service and hope you enjoy your retirement Mark! - TODD BENDER
TODD BENDER
JOHN SMITH
Structure Fire in Leon
Mickey Mouse keeps an eye on the bays.
TODD BENDER
Leon, NY - On November 15th, the Leon Fire Department was dispatched to Route 62 for a structure fire. Mutual aid from Cherry Creek, Dayton, South Dayton, Ellington, Forestville, Sunset Bay, Conewago, Perrysburg and Gowanda assisted Leon Fire Department. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
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BOB MCCORMICK
Newburgh Firefighters Respond to Fire in Target Plaza
Newburgh, NY - Good Will FD responded to a report of smoke coming from a dentist's office located in the Target Plaza, on November 1st at about 4:30 P.M. Good Will Car-1 requested one engine from Winona Lake FD to the scene and Orange County Car-13 also responded. The fire was quickly knocked down and both departments checked for extension. Deputy Coordinator (36-13) requested Central Hudson to the scene for a power cut. The Orange Lake FD stood-by for Good Will FD. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
st
FUTURE 1 RESPONDERS
If you have photos you would like to see in our “Future First Responders� feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
V. PHILLIPS
New Windsor, NY - On Sunday, October 9th, the Vails Gate FD hosted their open house for fire prevention. Vails Gate FD Firefighter Michael Swankie was excited to have his 7-year-old nephew, Billy, stop by to check out the demonstrations. He saw the children's bunker gear and had to put it on to look like Uncle Mike. He wasn't very interested in the hose line demonstration; however, he handled the water can like an old pro. It's safe to say we may have a future "truckie" on our hands!
The side of the structure blown away from the home.
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House Explosion Rocks Small Village in Upstate New York Delanson, NY - The Delanson Fire Department received multiple calls on November 14th, reporting a house explosion, located across the street from their firehouse. As firefighters arrived, they immediately JUMP TO FILE# called mutual aid to 111416136 assist, confirming the explosion of a house across the street from the firehouse. Both the front and side of the structure were blown away, approximately 25-feet from the home, landing in a neighbor's yard and Main Street, which runs through the middle of the village. Multiple fire departments from Schenectady County and Schoharie County responded to the scene to assist with the house explosion. Neighbors helped assist a woman to safety from the secondfloor of the home before firefighters arrived. Command requested members from USAR Team to the scene, along with Rotterdam District No. 2 for their RIT Team. Firefighters immediately set up a safety zone around the building, as there was a hazard concern from it collapsing on one side. Firefighters set up a full tanker operation to supply the scene with adequate amounts of water. Firefighters had heavy fire in the rear of the building and were only able to make exterior attacks on the building due to the extremely compromised conditions. Command requested Cobleskill Fire Department to the scene with their truck company to hit the fire in the attic area.
Firefighters work to set up a collapse zone in front of the Delanson Fire Department.
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Firefighters remained on the scene for most of the evening and into the early hours of the next day. The building was a complete loss and the explosion is under investigation at this time by county investigators and the New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control. No firefighters were injured at
the scene and the fire department across the street sustained no damage from the explosion; however, debris from the explosion, which was approximately 50-feet away, was found in the fire department's parking lot. - JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER
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January, 2017
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
BOB MCCORMICK
Smoke showing from the house as crews make entry from the rear.
N. GRISWOLD
Firefighters Make Quick Stop in East Maine BOB MCCORMICK
Units Respond to Chimney Fire in Newburgh Newburgh, NY - Winona Lake and Orange Lake FD's were dispatched to a chimney fire located on Union Ave., on November 14th. Orange Lake Car-1 advised that smoke was seen coming out of the chimney when he arrived and that an oil burner service had just completed service to the furnace. Winona Lake set up a ladder to assess the situation and Orange Lake units came to assist. Engine 36-13 was also at the scene.
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Maine, NY - Just before 11:00 P.M. on the night of November 14th, Broome County Communications dispatched East Maine Fire (56) to 418 East Maine Road for a possible house fire. While en-route, County notified Chief56 that members passing the station reported smoke showing and another local firefighter on-scene was reporting a working fire. Chief-56 requested a secondalarm to be dispatched. Upon arrival, Chief-56 found a two-story, wood frame, singlefamily home, with smoke showing throughout. Fire was also found in the attic of the single-story section
JUMP TO FILE #111516112 of the house. All residents were accounted for and out of the structure, attempting to slow the fire's progress with a garden hose. Crews began arriving shortly after the chief and were directed to stretch a line to the rear of the house, where the bulk of the fire was showing. Firefighters were able to quickly knock down the bulk of the fire and began checking for extension. Ventilation, along with overhaul and digging out hot spots in the attic, contin-
ued for over an hour. Assisting on-scene were Choconut Center Fire (57), Maine Fire (33), Chenango Fire (66), Prospect Terrace Fire (63), Enwell Fire FAST Team (31), Glen Aubrey Fire (47), Union Center Fire (53), Maine Ambulance (85), Broome County Fire Coordinators, Broome County Fire Investigators and the New York State Police. No injuries were reported and all units returned to headquarters within three hours. - NICHOLAS GRISWOLD
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5-5-5 Firefighter Fitness: “A New Year, A New You” Let me start by saying, I’ve only ever made one New Year’s resolution that I have actually kept. Well it’s that time of year again, where we all over-indulge in the awesomeness of the holiday season, and then make our amazing New Year’s resolutions, including our new goals and the “it’s time to change” moment. With some very sophisticated internet research, i.e. the Google, I was able to confirm my hypothesis that the NUMBER ONE New Year’s resolution each year is to “get fitter.” I also learned that only about 8% of Americans actually achieve this goal. My knowledge about the state of fitness within the fire service makes me think that we are no different, and the statistics posted on NFPA.org really speak for themselves: Firefighter Death or Injury by Cause: Overexertion/Stress/Medical 2010: 54% 2011: 52% 2012: 48% 2013: 33% 2014: 58% 2015: 59% Again, I am hypothesizing here, but really, are we any different?? As a whole, we sure do act like it. Just do a quick internet search for “Firefighter T-Shirts.” A number of “we are different” slogans will pop up. I could list them, but why when you all know them by heart, regardless if you actually wear them or not. But are we “really different,” or are we just like everyone else out there?? Physically, for sure; but mentally, maybe not so much. As with any Member of Service, we choose to do a very dangerous job by risking our lives for others. But at what cost?? The cost has to do with those numbers listed above. Just look at the cause provided: Overexertion/Stress/Medical.These causes speak to the type of people we are. We work hard, i.e. overexertion. We see and do things that are beyond most peoples grasp, i.e. stress. This job taxes us, our bodies and more importantly, our hearts, i.e. medical. So why aren’t we taking better care of ourselves?! I wish I knew the answer, but I don’t, and I honestly don’t believe anyone really does. So why not make that change now? A new year and a new you should start TODAY. Before you even begin, let me tell you this much. It won’t be easy. Actually, it’s going to suck…a lot. Especially during the
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JUMP TO FILE #120116101 first 30 days. But again, just look at those percentages listed above. If we all just embraced the “suck,” dug in deep and pushed through, imagine the fire service we could create! Imagine how much better you’d be, for yourself, for your family and for the fire service as a whole. Another thing I wish I could do is provide you with a way to make this happen for yourself. But here’s the thing…there’s no manual. There’s no one book, one DVD, one gym, one diet or one style that will work for everyone. Of course loads of people will disagree with me, mostly because they might have a product, a theory or a style that they claim will change you forever, and it just may! But I can’t find that for you. That one goes back to the resolution theory. You have to commit to a positive change. You have to start, and start NOW. Take a few moments while you’re at the station and look around. You’re not alone there. Your brothers and sisters all put their bunker gear on one leg at a time, and no matter where they are on their fitness journey, they are there to help you. Another positive about the fire service is that we are all about embracing the “suck” together. The level at which a fire crew works together to achieve a common goal is simply unbelievable to most. So why not make this resolution together? Why not agree, as a crew, that you’re going to spend time together working on yourselves, both physically and mentally. Together, we can do anything. Alone, we are just that…alone. Remember that one New Year’s resolution I mentioned earlier, that I actually kept? It was to always return my shopping cart to the cart rack. It seems so trivial, I know, to just push it back to where it belongs. Try it though! You just may be surprised what you learn about yourself and others. Happy New Year!
JOHN SPAULDING
After cutting some trees out of the way, crews needed to remove the door and roll the dash of the truck in order to free the driver.
OnStar Helps Save Man’s Life in Churchville Churchville, NY - On the morning of November 26th, the Churchville Fire Department and Ambulance were dispatched for a single-car crash in the area of Baker St., located in the village. The first arriving chief happened to notice the four-way flashers reflecting off of a road sign and found the Chevy pickup truck down a 15-foot embankment, amongst many trees. If not for OnStar being automatically activated with GPS, the victim would likely not have been found until the next day due to the semi-remote location he was in and from being so far from the roadway.
JUMP TO FILE #112916128 After an investigation, it was determined that the truck left the roadway without any attempts to negotiate the 90-degree turn, and there was no indication of braking. The truck bounced off a two-foot tree and went airborne for 50-feet, until hitting another two-foot tree head-on. The fire department used chainsaws and two power supplies with Hurst and Rescue Tec tools to complete the rescue after about 30 min-
utes. They had set up ground ladders and tag lines to bring equipment, personnel and victim, via a stokes basket, to an awaiting ambulance. The patient was rushed to Strong Memorial Hospital with a paramedic from Monroe Ambulance, where he underwent nine hours of surgery. He sustained multiple broken bones in each extremity, a closed head injury and multiple organ issues, including the bladder, spleen and gall bladder. It was reported that he would still need many additional surgeries. - JOHN SPAULDING
- ROBERT "PIP" PIPARO
PROVIDED
The victim is loaded into the back of the ambulance with EMT's and paramedics.
JOHN SPAULDING
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FDNY
STEVE WHITE
FDNY members pose for a photo at the start of the race at the Verrazano Bridge toll plaza, located in Staten Island.
ALLEN EPSTEIN
Three Alarm Store Fire in Manhattan Manhattan, NY - Units were dispatched on November 30th to 3rd Ave. and East 38th St. for reports of a structure fire. Upon arrival, crews found a five-story commercial store building with fire on the first-floor and vacant apartments above. The fire had started in the store before extending to the upper floors by the pipe chase. A third-alarm was called and four lines were needed to knock the fire down, along with four additional trucks above the third-alarm.
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.
STEVE WHITE
FDNY Tower Ladder-77 was used by marathon race officials to coordinate the race.
FDNY Participates in 2016 TCS NYC Marathon Staten Island, NY - FDNY members participated in the 2016 TCS New York City Marathon on November 6th. The New York City Marathon is an annual marathon that courses through the five boroughs of New York City. It is currently the largest marathon in the world.
FDNY
New York, NY - FDNY members recently reunited with a man saved during a daring, roof-rope rescue! Mr. Jim Duffy, who was interviewed by CNN alongside the FDNY members shown here, is recovering well after being rescued from a six-alarm fire on the Upper East Side of Manhattan in late October. Roof-rope rescues are dangerous and are only used as a last resort, when no other means of rescue are an option.
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FDNY
ALLEN EPSTEIN
JOHN HOPPER
All-Hands Fire in Bronx 16-Story Dwelling
Bronx, NY - On the evening of Saturday, November 12th at approximately 8:30 P.M., Bronx companies responded to 730 Oakland Place at Clinton Avenue for a reported fire on the sixth-floor. Battalion-18 arrived on-scene with the first-due units, Engine-88 and Ladder-38, and transmitted a 10-77 (HiRise Residential Fire), for a fire on the sixth-floor of a 16-story, 175x175, multiple dwelling. The fire was located and quickly knocked down, with an approximate 35 minute duration.
ALLEN EPSTEIN
House Fire in Queens Goes to Two Alarms
Queens, NY - Two alarms were needed on November 24th for a structure fire located at 90th St. and 88th Avenue. Upon firefighters' arrival, fire was found on the second-floor of a wood frame house, with extension to the attic. Three lines were used to knock the fire down.
ON THE LITER SIDE
If you have photos you would like to see in our “On The Liter Side” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
STEVE WHITE
Staten Island, NY - Richmond Engine Company-1 brought Santa to a tree lighting event in the New Springville section of Staten Island on November 26th.
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FDNY ON THE LITER SIDE If you have photos you would like to see in our “On The Liter Side� feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
ALLEN EPSTEIN
Private Home in Queens Catches Fire Queens, NY - Firefighters responded to 102nd St. and 101st Ave. on November 24th for reports of a structure fire. Upon arrival, fire was found on the first-floor of a private house. An "All Hands" was requested shortly after. Two lines were used to quickly knock the fire down.
FDNY
New York, NY - On Sunday, December 4th, brave FDNY members rescued Santa from the roof of the New York Fire Museum! Once safely inside, Santa spread holiday cheer to kids and adults of all ages.
ALLEN EPSTEIN
House Fire in Richmond Hill Quickly Knocked Queens, NY - On November 23rd, units were dispatched to 108th St. and 91st Ave. for reports of a house fire. Upon arrival, fire was found on the second-floor in the rear extension, and into the attic. There was also extension to Exposure-2 and to the outside. Three lines were used to knock the fire down.
ALLEN EPSTEIN
Two Alarm Structure Fire in Manhattan
Manhattan, NY - Firefighters responded to East 24th St. and 2nd Ave. on November 25th for reports of a structure fire. Upon arrival, fire was found on the fourth and fifth floors of a five-story building. Two alarms were struck and three lines were used to knock the fire down. No injuries were reported.
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FDNY DRILLS/TRAINING
If you have photos you would like to see in our “Drills/Training” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
New York, NY - On Monday, November 14th, the FDNY, in conjunction with the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey, and NYC Health & Hospitals, conducted a full-scale exercise, simulating the notification, management of, and transport of a patient under investigation for the Ebola virus. The exercise was delivered in two modules: first at JFK Airport in Queens, to evaluate the FDNY response and management of a patient transport from a commercial airline; then at Bellevue Hospital Center in Manhattan, to evaluate the hospital’s pre-patient arrival procedure, arrival, and patient management by FDNY Haz-Tac members.
ALLEN EPSTEIN
Crews Respond to Fire in Queens Gas Station Queens, NY - Units responded to 174th St. and 64th Ave. on November 23rd for reports of a structure fire. Upon arrival, crews found fire in the ceiling and roof of a gas station. Three lines were used to knock the fire down.
FDNY
ALLEN EPSTEIN
Fire on Top Floor of Queens House Queens, NY - Firefighters quickly knocked down a fire on the top floor of a house located on Gorsline St. and 51st Ave., on November 19th. Two lines were used to knock down the fire. FDNY
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FDNY NYPD Patrol Unit Finds and Reports Structure Fire in Bronx Bronx, NY - During the early morning hours of Wednesday, November 16th, an NYPD unit from the 47th Precinct, who was on patrol in the Laconia area of the North Bronx, came upon smoke pushing from the basement of a onestory, private JUMP TO FILE# dwelling. 111716105 The officers quickly notified their dispatchers, who then notified FDNY dispatchers. Three engines, two trucks and Battalion-15 were then dispatched to 3220 Pearsall Avenue, between Burke Avenue and East Gun Hill Road. Tower Ladder-51 arrived on-scene and transmitted a 10-75 for a fire in the basement of a one-story, 20x40, detached private dwelling. One line was stretched and the fire was quickly knocked down. The incident was placed under control with an approximate 25 minute duration. - JOHN HOPPER
JOHN HOPPER
ALLEN EPSTEIN
Roof Fire in Queens Quickly Knocked Queens, NY - Crews responded to 57 Rust St. on November 14th for reports of a structure fire. Upon arrival, fire was found showing from the roof of a one-story building. Firefighters quickly knocked it down, using one line.
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JOHN HOPPER
One Treated for Smoke Inhalation at Bronx Fire
Bronx, NY - On the early morning of Monday, November 14th, North Bronx companies responded to 1135 Schieffelin Avenue at East 226 Drive for a reported fire on the first-floor. Battalion-15 arrived on-scene with first-due units, Engine-38 and Tower Ladder-51, and transmitted a 10-75 for a fire on the first-floor of an occupied, three-story, multiple dwelling. The fire was contained to one apartment and quickly knocked down. One line was stretched and put into operation. One fire victim was removed from the building and treated for smoke inhalation. The incident was placed under control with an approximate 30 minute duration.
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FDNY
FDNY
ALLEN EPSTEIN
Two Workers Tragically Killed by Crane in Queens
Queens, NY - A construction worker and a crane operator were killed on November 22nd after a mechanical issue caused a 6500-pound beam to fall six-feet from a crane, landing on them. The construction worker was killed on the ground instantly while the crane operator was killed instantly while still inside the cab of the crane. FDNY and NYPD personnel responded to the scene. The exact cause of the accident is under investigation, but preliminary findings indicated that the cause was from a failure in the crane’s rigging. The incident occurred at 134th Street and Union Turnpike.
FDNY
FDNY Members Share Thanksgiving with Rescued Pup Queens, NY - On Thanksgiving night, November 24th, FDNY units encountered a stray puppy corralled inside the Astoria park tennis court. It was very wet and cold outside, but luckily, three of the FDNY members were able to coax the frightened, but friendly puppy into FDNY Lieutenant Steven Caggiano's command car and drive back to the station, where they were happy to share a Thanksgiving meal with her. FDNY Lieutenant Steven Caggiano of EMS Station-49 in Queens, had responded to assist EMT Chavez and EMT Salorio in tending to the wounded dog. They also noticed that one of her paws had been bleeding, so some of the members washed and bandaged the wound. EMT Scognamiglio and EMT Kane also purchased dog shampoo and bathed her. Thanks to the members of EMS Station-49, the puppy is receiving proper veterinary care and is doing well!
JOHN HOPPER
Fire Breaks Out in Bronx Metro PCS Store
Bronx, NY - On the early morning of Wednesday, November 30th, Bronx companies responded to 2960 Jerome Avenue, at East 199 Street, for a report of smoke coming from a Metro PCS store. Battalion-27 arrived on-scene and transmitted a 10-75 for a fire in a one-story, 30x50 taxpayer. Two lines were stretched while one was put into operation. The main body of fire was quickly knocked down. The incident was placed under control with an approximate 30 minute duration.
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Happy Holidays! January, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
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