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FAIRPORT, NY - Penfield firefighters have adopted as one of their own a 9-year-old boy who died saving six relatives from a fire that destroyed his grandfather’s home on January 20.

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March, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

SUV explodes on Troy firefighters The City of Troy was called around 3:37 a.m. on February 5th for a car fire in front of 730 Burden Ave in South Troy. On arrival, Engine 6 had a fully involved SUV. Firefighters pulled a handline and as soon as the water hit the fire, there was an explosion. Within minutes, firefighters had the fire knocked down and out. The police were called in to investigate the fire.

TOM KENNEDY

Poestenkill Fire Department using a blitz ﬁre to drive ﬂames back

Third alarm fire destroys historic restaurant At 7 p.m. on January 14, 2014, the Defreestville and Wynantskill Fire Departments were dispatched to a structure fire at Villa Valenti Restaurant at 369 West Sand Lake Road. Multiple calls poured into the 911 dispatch center stating the building was on fire. The first arriving units on the scene had heavy fire coming from the rear of the building. Crews deployed their manpower into the building, but were driven back due to the extreme smoke and heat from the structure. About 15 minutes into the fire,

JUMP TO FILE #011614103

the commanding chief ordered the second and third alarms. This brought crews from as far as Brunswick to help battle the massive blaze. Major water pressure issues hampered the suppression efforts of firefighters. Fire crews from the neighboring towns drafted from a creek near the fire scene. Fire crews from Poestenkill l, Mountain View, Brunswick No. 1, Eagle Mills, East Greenbush, and

West Sand Lake were on scene until the early hours of the morning battling the blaze. A large excavator was brought in to tear the building down. Truck companies from East Greenbush and Wynantskill worked together using master streams to knock down any remaining ﬁre. The ﬁre is under investigation at this time. The owner of the restaurant told reporters that they will rebuild. - HEATHER PILLSWORTH

DAVID F. KAZMIERCZAK

Buffalo home destroyed by blaze Buffalo firefighters of the 3rd Battalion 1st Platoon were called out to battle a blaze in a two and a half frame dwelling at 543 Best St. on the city's East side on February 5, 2014. Engine Co. 21 was returning from a call when they noticed smoke coming from the structure. Lt. Mike Farrell Jr. requested the balance of a full box assignment. Firefighters used multiple hand lines and two tower ladders to bring the fire under control. No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation. Damage was listed at $80,000 to the building and an undetermined amount to the contents. The house next door received $1,000 in exposure damage. Emergency demolition was ordered for the structure. Division Chief James LaMacchia was in command. TOM KENNEDY

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March, 2014

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March, 2014

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CORPORATE INFORMATION 1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New York edition - Vol. 15 No. 3 - 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.

PUBLICATION CONTENT Notice: The advertisements, articles, and letters contained in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of 1st Responder Inc. and Belsito Communications, Inc. Advertisements are sold pursuant to the “space available” and corresponding fee schedule. The mere fact that advertisements are contained in this publication does not express nor imply that 1st Responder Inc. and Belsito Communications, Inc. vouches for the credibility of the claims made in the advertisements or the representations expressed or implied in them.

Valley Falls, Schaghticoke, Melrose, and Johnsonville Fire Departments were dispatched to a house fire at 42 State Street in the village of Valley Falls. The call came out as a porch fire, but on arrival Val- JUMP TO FILE# ley Falls command 020514100 stated they had a signal 30 working structure fire and called for the sedcond alarm. Command stated they had heavy fire on the B side of the

house and in the second floor. This brought Pittstown, Raymertown, and Speigletown to the scene as mutual aid. Crews battled the fire for about an hour and brought the fire under control. No one was home at the time of the fire and the fire was contained to the one side of the house. Rensselaer County fire investigators were brought in to find the cause. - JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Speigletown's Engine Ladder 35

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

50 plus years of active service certification for two Rombout members Two members of Rombout Fire Company were recognized with the Volunteer Fire Police Association State of New York 50 plus years of active service certification at a recent company meeting. George Treutle, JUMP TO FILE # regional director of 011814100 the Volunteer Fire Police Association, presented Charlie Chetner and Charles G. Thiess the certification for their many years of dedication and service to the community. Charlie Chetner first joined the Washington Engine Company in Tarrytown, New York in January 1957 and served as an active member until 1966. He then moved to Montrose and joined the Cortlandt Engine Company, where he served 41 years as an active member and Commissioner. During that time, he also was a member of the Westchester/Putnam Fire Police Association. Moving to the town of Fishkill in January 2008, he joined the Rombout Fire Company as an active fire police, where he continues to volunteer as he has for the last 55 years. Charles G. Theiss started in the fire service at the Village of Fishkill Protection Engine Company in September 1951. He joined Rombout Fire Company as a charter member in January 1971 serving as interior firefighter, fire police Captain, Commissioner and currently as President of the Rombout Benevolent Association. He is a past member of the Dutchess County Fire Police Association and currently member of New York State Fire Police Association. As a charter member, Chuck designed the fire company’s

KEVIN BARRY

Charlie Chetner and Charles G. Thiess with their certiﬁcation for their many years of dedication and service to the community.

patch, which is still in used today. As a master carpenter, he also built a wooden replica of the patch which overlooks the equipment in the engine bay.

Chief Wes Hall commented, “It’s an honor to have valuable members like them in Rombout. To have them recognized for a life time of dedicated service to

Fishkill and the Hudson Valley is just wonderful.” - KEVIN BARRY

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March, 2014

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March, 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: Terry Richard "Dick" Guss, Sr., 72 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: December 12, 2013 Death Date: December 15, 2013 Fire Department: South Zanesville Fire Department Initial Summary: After returning to the station from working a residential fire call, Firefighter Guss slipped and fell from the running board of an engine striking his head on the apparatus bay floor. According to reports, Guss was transported to the hospital alert and in little pain. While at the hospital Guss’ condition worsened and he was transferred to ICU then underwent surgery to address pressure on the brain from bleeding. In spite of best efforts from fellow first responders and medical personnel at the hospital, Firefighter Guss succumbed to his injuries passing away on Sunday, December 15th. Georgia: Jeff Little, 50 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: December 15, 2013 Death Date: December 15, 2013 Fire Department: Waycross Fire Department Initial Summary: Crews were performing overhaul operations on a residential structure fire when the ceiling collapsed trapping Lieutenant Little. Rescue efforts were immediately initiated and Little was transported to the Mayo Clinic of Waycross, where he succumbed to injuries sustained in the collapse. According to fire department officials, the fire has been ruled intentionally set and Lieutenant Little’s death is being investigated as a homicide. Virginia: Joshua T. Smith, 25 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: December 14, 2013 Death Date: December 14, 2013 Fire Department: LaCrosse Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: While responding to the fire station for an alarm, Firefighter Smith was killed from injuries sustained when the privately owned vehicle he was operating left the roadway and crashed. Investigation of the fatal accident continues by local and state authorities.

New Jersey: David Lidke, 51 Rank: Fire Police Lieutenant Incident Date: December 23, 2013 Death Date: December 23, 2013 Fire Department: Hightstown Engine Company #1 Initial Summary: Having just returned to the station from working scene safety at two residential structure fires, Fire Police Lieutenant Lidke suffered a medical emergency and collapsed while directing traffic to assist apparatus back into quarters. The nature and cause of Lidke’s fatal injury is still to be determined. New Jersey: Jeffrey Lee Fields, 51 Rank: Fire Police Lieutenant Incident Date: December 12, 2013 Death Date: December 25, 2013 Fire Department: Youngsville Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: Within 24 hours of responding to a motor vehicle accident on December 12th, Chief Fields suffered a heart attack. Fields remained in the hospital and underwent heart bypass surgery on December 17, returning home on the 23rd where he passed away on December 25th, 2013. New Jersey: Cosmo Paris, 59 Rank: Fire Police Lieutenant Incident Date: January 6, 2014 Death Date: January 8, 2014 Fire Department: Cliffside Park Fire Department Initial Summary: Firefighter Paris responded to an activated alarm which created a hazard in the building necessitating fire officials to order a stand-by at the location for a fire watch. The fire watch duty extended 16 hours in sub-freezing temperatures. A short time after the fire watch concluded, Paris suffered a heart attack while operating a motor vehicle. Firefighter Paris was discovered by police then treated and transported to the hospital, where he succumbed to his injury.

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

March, 2014

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March, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

WSS FIRE DEPARTMENT

Car into house brings out White Sulphur Springs At approximately 12:47 a.m. on January 20, 2014, the Sullivan County 911 Center dispatched the White Sulphur Springs Fire Department and Mobilemedic EMS to State Route 52 and Shore Rd. for a motor vehicle accident in which a car drove into the porch a house. Upon arrival of First Assistant Chief Tim Fink (36-2) and Second Assistant Chief John Picard (363), they noticed that the operator of the vehicle was trapped, luckily only sustaining minor injuries. Chief Fink initiated command and divided his members into teams. Chief Devin Day arrived and assumed command. He assigned one team, under the command of Chief Fink, to shore up the porch to prevent any further

JUMP TO FILE #012214107

collapse to the structure. As soon as the building was secured, Chief Day ordered his other team, under the command of Chief Picard, to start extrication using the Jaws. Extrication was completed in approximately 20 minutes. Due to the nature of the cal,l the Monticello Collapse and Trench Rescue Team was dispatched, but quickly canceled when the chiefs determined that there was no imminent collapse and that there was no entrapment of occupants in the house. The patient was handed over to Mobilemedic EMS paramedics for further treatment. He was

transported to Catskill Regional Medical Center in stable condition and with non-life threatening injuries. The White Sulphur Springs Fire Department requested the Town of Liberty Building and Code Enforcement officer to the scene to determine the stability of the house. It was determined that the one story stone structure and its foundation were stable and that no collapse should occur. Chief Day terminated command and all White Sulphur Springs units were cleaned up and back in service at approximately 0211 hours. The cause of the accident is under investigation by the New York state Police. - ROB CARNELL

APPARATUS IN ACTION If you have photos you would like to see in our Apparatus in Action feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.

WILLIAM DINGEE

Fully involved on arrival in Vista On January 25th at 8:05 p.m., the Vista and South Salem Fire Departments were dispatched to a reported house fire on Kitchawan Road in the Vista Fire District. Additional reports from members arriving on scene reported fire through the roof of a single family residence at 222 Kitchawan Rd. Mutual aid resources were requested from the Pound Ridge, Goldens Bridge, Bedford Hills Fire Departments in New York, and New Canaan, Ridgefield Fire Departments from Connecticut. Arriving units from both departments found a two and a half story wood frame contemporary style house fully involved. The house was occupied at the time of the fire and the occupants

JUMP TO FILE #012614108

had exited the structure safely with their dog. Water supply from tankers and a pond on the property were utilized to fight the fire. The house was a total loss and the cause of the fire, investigated by the Westchester County Cause and Origin Team Zone 5, as “undetermined” at this time due to severe fire damage and instability of the structure. 45-50 firefighters responded to the scene and the last firefighters left the scene at roughly 12:00 a.m. - BERNIE MEEHAN

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March, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

PAgE 9

South Lockport calls in City of Lockport for entrapment Niagara County had one accident after another when the wild winds started ripping across the fresh snow. All turned out to be minor until South Lockport got toned out for a car versus pole with a person possibly partially ejected on Robinson Road just JUMP TO FILE# pass the bypass. First on scene 011914103 Niagara County Sheriff deputies called for EMS to expedite for a trapped driver. The deputy assisted at the scene while awaiting fire and EMS personnel. Fire Chief Tim Glaser received an update from 1st Assistant Derek Caldwell, who was already on the road doing driver training. Caldwell advised of the serious injury heavy entrapment. South Lockport Fire Chief Tim Glaser had fire control tone out the City of Lockport paramedics for mutual aid. Fire companies worked hand in hand and side by side to extricate the driver. City of Lockport paramedics worked on the driver to stabilize him as South Lockport volunteers used jaws and cutters to remove the vehicle away from the trapped driver. South Lockport EMS worked

on the female passenger, who had self-extricated and was walking about the scene. The crews got her out of the cold and wind and inside the ambulance to evaluate her level of injuries. Assistant Chief Ben Ripson used a cutter to remove the window and Assistant Chief Caldwell pried the hood open to cut the battery. Crews contended with additional hazards at the scene, as the car cut a pole in half with a transformer and live wires above the wreckage. Chief Glaser had a tow truck in the area use heavy duty chains to help secure the pole. As stabilization was being provided by Lockport paramedics, the roof was removed, which allowed Caldwell to enter the crushed car and use the spreaders to get the dash off the legs of the driver. After about 30 minutes, the two teams were able to get the critically injured driver out of the car. The City of Lockport transfered the driver to ECMC by ground, as Mercy Flight could not fly because of the wind. NYSEG was notified due to the broken pole. South Lockport stood by the scene until NYSEG was able to arrive, secure, and replace the pole. - STEPHEN WALLACE

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March, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

JOHN SPAULDING

CHRIS TOMPKINS

Heavy ﬁre knocked down

Sparkill fire damages two restaurants and displaces four families Four families and three businesses were forced to the streets after a third alarm blaze damaged two buildings in the center of Sparkill. At 9:40 p.m., the Sparkill Fire Department was dispatched to 623 Main St for a fire in the Roost Restaurant. Upon arrival of Sparkill Fire Chief Mike Yannazzone Jr., he found heavy fire showing from the second floor and extending to the exposure, only separated by a small alley. Crews made an interior attack

JUMP TO FILE #012714119

on both structures, knocking down the fire in the exposure, however were slowed down in the main fire building by heavy fire in the attic. As firefighters had the fire in the exposure knocked down, members stretched a line to the attic window from the exterior to knock down the heavy fire to allow interior crews access to the attic to open up and knock down the remaining

fire. The fire took about an hour to knock down and be placed under control. No injuries were reported, however four families, twenty seven people, were displaced. The red cross was called in to help the families. The two restaurants and grocery store were heavily damaged by water, one that was only open for a week. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. - CHRIS TOMPKINS

JOHN SPAULDING

Commercial fire in Rochester Rochester, NY. The Rochester Fire Department was dispatched to a building fire at 1029 Lyell Avenue late Wednesday afternoon, February 5th. First arriving Engine 5 found an 80x60x20 all masonry block, metal roofed building with fire and smoke showing. A restricted alarm was called as was an additional engine for water supply. The building, Autolink, a car repair shop sat far from the roadway. The property owner Buckingham Properties was not available for comment. The occupant reported someone in the shop tripping over a gas can, which then ran under a propane heater causing a large amount of fire and smoke. The building was compromised structurally and all five employees were accounted for, triggering an exterior attack only. No injuries were reported. CHRIS TOMPKINS

A small amount of ﬁre vents from the peak of the roof in the rear

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

March, 2014

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March, 2014

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Second alarm on Washington Ave in Albany The City of Albany was toned for an alarm of fire at 501 Washington Ave. The first arriving engine called for the Signal 30 and the battalion chief called for the second alarm. Crews had multiple water issues on scene, which hampered their suppression efforts. Flames reached 30 feet into the night sky and could be scene blocks away. Firefighters had heavy fire in the rear of the building and knocked down the fire quickly after they were able to get water to the scene. No one was injured and two people lost their home. The Red Cross was called in to help the displaced fire victims. The fire is under investigation at this time.

Back room fire in Schenectady The Schenectady Fire Department was called to 320 State Street for a structure fire. On arrival, crews had smoke in the building and the smoke was getting worse. Firefighters were having a hard time finding the source of the smok. As a precaution, the chief called for a second alarm until they could find the find the fire. After opening up the back room, the seat of the fire was located. The fire was brought under control and the building was vented. Crews were in service a short time after the call.

Correspondent Contest Sponsored by All Hands Fire Equipment 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 March editions from All Hands Fire Equipment is a Gemtor Fire Rescue Class II Harness, Model 541NYCL. Our February editions winner of a 5.11 Tactical Job Shirt with the new FF1 logo from FF1 Professional Safety Services was John Hopper from Yonkers, NY. If your company would like to provide a prize and sponsor our monthly contest, contact Heather at x212. All Hands Fire Equipment is a leading national provider for the Gemtor Fire Rescue Class 2 Harness, Model 541NYC. This third generation harness is presently used by the FDNY as well as hundreds of other fire departments across the United States. The newly designed aluminum three stage locking Pompier hook, the lighter weight hardware and the new stronger stitich design make this Class II Harness a must-have for firefighters. Along with discounted prices, All Hands Fire Equipment also offers a comprehensive training class on the use and operation for the Gemtor Harness.

DAVID F. KAZMIERCZAK

Smoke investigation in Buffalo Buffalo, NY. Firefighters of the 7th Battalion 3rd Platoon were called out to investigate smoke in a house at 101 Poultney Ave. in the city's Kensington Bailey section early Monday morning February 3, 2014. Engine Co. 23 reported heavy fire in the ceiling in the second floor up to the crawl space. The chief requested the balance of a full box. Firefighters used two-one and three quarter inch hand lines and 25 feet of ladders to bring the fire under control. No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation. The Red Cross was called for two adults and three children from the one and a half frame dwelling. Damage was listed at $30,000 to the building and $15,000 to the contents. Division Chief Patrick Britzzalaro was in command.

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

March, 2014

PagE 13

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Quick spreading fire in Schuyler Heights The Schuyler Heights Fire Department responded to a structure fire at 5 Stone Ridge Dr in the early hours of the morning for a possible chimney fire. The caller stated “the chimney to be fully involved and was not going to get out of the house.” Shaker Road Fire chief was first on scene and reported this was not just a chimney fire. Command called for a full structure fire response, calling a Signal 30 due to the massive size of the

JUMP TO FILE #012714120

home. This brought firefighters from Menands, Shaker Road, Boght (FAST), Colonie Village (acting second FAST), Maplewood, and Latham Fire Departments. Crews deployed into the home and found out that they were not dealing with a normal chimney fire. Fire crews had outlets melt-

ing, which sent them to the basement to find a fast moving fire that had spread above the drop ceiling and into the walls. Crews quickly made the knockdown of the fire in the ceiling and walls. No injuries were reported and firefighters located the family cat unharmed after searching the home. The fire is under investigation at this time.

JEFFREY ARNOLD

Ice rescue drill on Conesus Lake Conesus Lake, NY. On Saturday, February 1, Livonia and Hemlock firefighters took part in an ice rescue drill on Conesus Lake.

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March, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

MARK PICERNO

MARTY PELTA

Windham Hose handles tough extrication On February 1st at approximately 5:30 a.m., Windham and Hensonville Fire, Windham Ambulance, Greene County Paramedics, Greene County Sheriff's officers, NY State Police and a Lifenet Medivac helicopter responded to the scene of a one vehicle accident on Route 23 in East Windham. A vehicle traveling east on Route 23 lost control, left the roadway, went down an embankment, and ended up hitting a tree approximately 200 feet from the roadway. The time of the crash was actually unknown, but a passing tanker truck, where the driver was sitting high up, saw the taillights from the vehicle over the guardrail and notified authorities. Extensive extrication had to be done to remove the female occupant from the vehicle. Injuries to the driver were serious, and she was removed by helicopter to a trauma center.

Lt. Nick Rolley outside the burned home.

Resident escapes blaze in Tupper Lake A resident heard the smoke alarm and opened his bedroom door to find a couch and wall ablaze. He closed the door and climbed out his window of his one story rental home. Rushing to the front of the structure to try and enter to save his pet dog, he was pushed back by the heat and flames. He immediately called 911. At 1:27 a.m., Franklin County toned out Tupper Lake Fire and Tupper Lake EMS to a reported structure fire at 34 1st Street in the village. Command 160-01 checked on the air and was advised that local police were on scene report-

JUMP TO FILE #012514104

ing smoke showing from the structure. ETA-167 confirmed a working structure fire. !60-01 requested a second alarm and mutual aid from Piercefield VFD for their cascade system to the scene and engine and manpower to standby the Tupper Lake station. Tupper Lake ETA 165 was used for it's equipment. A water supply was achieved from the village hydrant system and crews entered the structure and had a good

knockdown within ten minutes. Plastic that covered the windows due to the extreme cold was removed and windows broken to ventilate the structure. Unfortunately, the resident's pet was killed, mostly likely from smoke inhalation. Heavy fire damage occurred in the living room area of the home and smoke and heat damage affected the bedroom and kitchen areas. Command requested Franklin County Cause and Origin to the scene to help determine the cause of the fire. - MARK PICERNO

Women in Firefighting If you have photos you would like to see in our Women in Fireﬁghting feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com

DAVID F. KAZMIERCZAK

Thawing pipes ends in blaze Buffalo, NY. Firefighters of the 4th Battalion 4th Platoon were called out to battle a fire at 211 Linwood Ave, which was started by someone trying to thaw frozen water pipes. The fire was on January 24, 2014. Engine Co. 21 reported nothing showing, but had a glow from a basement window. Firefighters used two-one and three quarter inch hand lines to bring the fire under control. Damage was extensive and no injuries were reported.

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Alyse Golinski started as a ﬁreﬁghter and moved up the rank to captain of the Melrose Fire Department

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

March, 2014

PAGE 15

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518-678-2281 DAVID F. KAZMIERCZAK

SUV versus chief’s rig in Buffalo Buffalo, NY. A Chief's rig of the 7th Battalion 1st Platoon was struck by an SUV on Skillen St. near Military Rd. on Monday, January 27, 2014. Both the chief and the driver of the SUV were taken to the hospital with unknown injuries. Slick roads were blamed for the crash. The Buffalo Police accident investigation unit was called to the scene. Engine Co. 36 and Ladder Co. 13 were dispatched to the accident. © MSA 2014 • ID 5702

West Fort Ann battles three structures in three days

DAVID F.KAZMIERCZAK

Buffalo, N.Y. fire 2078 Bailey Ave. Buffalo, NY. Firefighters of the 3rd Battalion 3rd Platoon were called out to battle a structure fire at 2078 Bailey Ave. on the City's East side and just next door to Engine Co. 31 and Ladder Co. 14's house. Ladder Co. 14 was out of service at the shop at the time of the fire. Firefighters encountered collier conditions and had difficulty entering. They used four-one and three quarter inch hand lines and a two and a half Two firefighters were transported to ECMC Hospital with injuries. Later, a city high lift was called to take down the structure due to the large amount of junk. Damage was listed at $30,000. The fire was on December 5, 2013.

On Saturday, October 26th at 5:00 a.m., the Washington County Dispatch Center alerted Fort Ann, Kingsbury and West Fort Ann Fire to a possible structure fire, a barn. Upon arrival of JUMP TO FILE # the first Fort Ann 120213127 officer, it was radioed to be a couple of hay bales on fire, that ultimately flashed and involved the whole barn by the time apparatus arrived. West Fort Ann ETA 462 set up two hand lines and a portable deluge gun. The ETA pumped for 12 hours until relieved. West Fort Ann Rescue 465 stood on scene for another five hours, lighting up the scene for safety. A few short hours after getting back to quarters, another alert came out for a smoke condition at 3:39 a.m.. The address was 9 Hadlock Pond Road, right next door to Chief Gould's residence. Engine 461 manned with four interior firefighters found heavy smoke coming from the garage. Their initial attack found fire in the ceiling of the garage and the adjacent foyer.

DAVE GOULD

Second structure in 24 hours

A working structure fire was announced and a full company response was requested by command. This response brought out ETA 462 and Rescue 465, along with the South Queensbury FAST team. The fire was a quick knockdown with overhaul taking some time due to having to remove a brick fireplace front and mantel to look for hot spots.

A third structure fire occurred on Monday, October 28, around 1:00 p.m. It was a small wood shed that had spread to a grass and brush fire. Upon returning from this fire, Fort Ann and West Fort Ann were alerted to the previous barn fire for smoldering hay. - DAVE GOULD

PAGE 16

March, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

BRIAN.L.HOULE

Menands early morning multi car crash on Interstate 787 Crews from the Schuyler Heights Fire Department worked to disable the battery of one of the vehicles on Interstate 787 involved in a multi car accident in the early morning hours of New Year’s Day. Two ambulances were also at the scene. It is unknown at this time what or if any injuries were sustained. Four vehicles were involved in the accident.

Pumping out the low areas to stop the ﬂow into the basement of the home.

L.PARSELL

Ice jam causes flooding in Gowanda The Village of Gowanda has seen more than its share of flooding through the years, and in the last month or so, the village has had its share of close calls for residents along the three creeks that run through this valley floor village. We have had two recent periods of very heavy snow and cold temperatures followed by rain and warm weather. The ice jams along the creeks started to move, and of course, became lodged in downed trees and brush, causing the rising creeks to spill ice and water into numerous yards along the streams. At 12:35 p.m. on January 11th, the Gowanda Fire Department was called to the scene along Grannis Brook on Buffalo Street for flooding in the roadway. A lot of water and ice had built up around several

JUMP TO FILE #011114112

residences in the low areas next to the brook. Gowanda Police Sgt Steve Raiport (also Gowanda Chief 2) and Disaster Coordinator Nick Crassi had already called out the Village and Town of Collins Highway Departments for backhoes to help to break through the ice dams and relieve the water behind them. While this was being carried out, a low lying residence along the creek was checked and found to have severe basement flooding in progress. The fire deparment reacted quickly to try to contain the flooding to the lowest levels possible as water was coming in through

and over the basement walls. Electric power and gas meters were shut off and pumping began by using the departments new three inch electric submersible sand/trash pump and a larger four inch gasoline powered trash pump. The water inﬂow was held in check and brought down to the level that the three inch submersible could handle it. The larger four inch pump was moved out into a sump area dug out by one of the backhoes and used to de-water the area surrounding the home. After the jam was cleared and about two hours spent pumping the low areas, the inﬂow was stopped without further damage to the home. - TIM TWICHELL

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

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Train versus tractor trailer with a water rescue The Schaghticoke and Melrose Fire Departments were dispatched to a train versus tractor trailer with a water rescue. The call came in after a freight train hit the tractor trailer at a bridge on Fisherman Lane. The first arriving units found the tractor about 30 feet down into the icy river with the driver still inside. The trailer was about 400 feet down attached to the front of the train on the bridge. The crews from both stations quickly got a ladder down to the driver and the driver climbed out and up the ladder a little wet, but okay. The driver was carrying a load of corn. Crews remained on scene for most of the night as DEC and the railroad operated.

FRANK ROBINSON

The Kingsbury Volunteer Hose Co. Inc. No. 1 still operates a 1976 Oshkosh/LTI 85' tower ladder.

March, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

PAGE 17

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Fully involved furniture store City of Troy had their hands full on January 3rd when the calls started to pour in for an alarm of fire on 112th and 4th Ave. Firefighters arriving had a fully involved furniture store with flames shooting into the clear night sky. The fire chief called for the second alarm. Along with that, the chief ordered master stream operations and Truck 1 set up to attack the fire from above. Crews cut into the side of the building to gain entry to further the attack. Warming buses were brought in to warm firefighters. Thick smoke blanketed the city’s north end while firefighters battled the blaze. The fire was brought under control by the early hours of the morning.

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Capital region FOOLS team up BOB ROOT

Investigation into fire in City of Newburgh Investigators were on the scene of a fire at 476 Broadway on January 16th. The City of Newburgh Fire Department with mutual aid from Stewart Air Guard and West Point were put to work at the second alarm fire in a three story brick row building. The fire was knocked down quickly and investigated by local officials.

You know that saying if we all work together we came make a difference in someone’s life. Well, The Capital Region FOOLS worked a little harder this year and took it that extra step as we always do in the fire service. The Capital Region FOOLS normally adopts one firefighter family for the holiday season, but this year that all changed. With two local families battling two life changing illnesses that are affecting their families, members of the FOOLS stepped up to the challenge not with a set of irons but, the Capital Region FOOLS brought Santa along to make the delivery of gifts to the France and Ward families.

JUMP TO FILE #122613115

Jayson Ward of the Raymertown Fire Department in Rensselaer County was taken under the wing of the FOOLS as his three year old daughter was to undergo open heart surgery in December. Also adopted was Mike France’s family. He is the Chapter President, Past Chief of South Schenectady and an Associate Member of Fuller Road Fire Department. Mike's wife was diagnosed with stage 4 brain cancer and has undergone surgery to remove the tumor on the right side of her brain.

As we all know that the brotherhood in the fire service is what makes us a different breed of person and how we all ban together to make a real difference in everyone’s life, members of the capital region FOOLS went to the bedside of Jayson Ward’s daughter at the hospital to hand deliver the gifts to put a smile on her face. The families face long and some of the hardest times they will have to face in their lives, but knowing that they have a huge family to keep them safe and offer a hand in this time of need is what coming together to make a difference is all about. - JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

PAGE 18

March, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

COLLEEN BENNETT

SHARON E. SIEGEL

Two alarm blaze destroys Huguenot Christian Center main building Huguenot, NY. A two alarm fire brought firefighters from 13 fire departments to fight a blaze at the TriState Family Christian Center in January. The main building at the center was destroyed, but others were saved. On Tuesday evening, January 7, 2014, multiple calls came in reporting large fire visible from Huguenot’s main road, Route 209. Huguenot’s Fire Chief T.J. Kalin said the blaze was fully involved when the call came in, but was quickly brought under control upon the prompt arrival of fire units on scene. Extremely frigid sub-zero wind chill factor conditions caused officials to take extra precaution in containing and extinguishing what could have been a much larger tragedy for the owners. “Many calls came in within a

JUMP TO FILE #020414110

short time, and we were able to get there very quickly. We knew as soon as we arrived that the main building would not be able to be saved, so we concentrated on making sure we saved the many small buildings around it, which we were able to do,” Kalin said. “Cold was a huge factor in getting the water we needed and in keeping everyone safe. You have to use a lot of caution when fighting a fire in these conditions. When temperatures are this cold, you never know what to expect.” Kalin said despite having to cut holes through at least eight inches of ice to get water from a nearby pond, and some equipment freezing and needing to be thawed; the fire

was contained within an hour and extinguished in less than two. The center has operated under many names and purposes over the past decades and is a well-known location and popular place in the town. The property includes many small bungalows, which are situated directly around the main building, and a popular indoor children’s entertainment area. Units on scene included Port Jervis, Sparrowbush, Cuddebackville, Westbrookville, Otisville, Montague, Westfall, Matamoras, Milford, Lumberland, Mount Hope, Greenville, and Wurtsboro. The cause of ﬁre was investigated by Orange County Fire Investigators and determined to have been electrical in nature.

Sherrill-Kenwood kicks-off 100th Year Sherrill, NY. The members of the Sherrill-Kenwood Volunteer Fire Department has kicked-off the start of their 100th year with a special ceremony dedicating their newly renovated Rec Room to Past Chief and Life Member, Fred Evans. The 84 year old, Evans was the fifth chief to serve the department The Sherrill-Kenwood Fire Department started out in 1914 as the Oneida Community Volunteer Fire Department serving the Oneida Ltd. Silverware offices and manufacturing facility. It was renamed with the incorporation of the City of Sherrill in 1916. Today, the Sherrill-Kenwood Fire Department is one of the few all-volunteer fire departments serving a city in New York State.

- SHARON SIEGEL

ALL IN THE FAMILY DAVID KAZMIERCZAK

Stairs burn away requiring window entry

MICHAEL MCCAGG

Father and son, James (from the Niverville Fire Department) and Ryan Hogencamp (Stuyvesant Fire).

Buffalo, NY. Firefighters were called out to battle freezing temperatures and a fire in a one and a half frame dwelling at 216 Baitz Ave. in the city's Clinton Bailey Market section. Firefighters used three-one and three quarter inch hand lines and 60 feet of ladders to bring the fire under control. The stairs to the second floor had burned away and firefighters had to make entry from a second floor window. The chief put a ladder pipe into operation. No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation. Damage was put at $20,000 for 216 Baitz Ave. and 214 received $3,000. Division Chief James LaMacchia was in command.

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March, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

Tallman battles intense winter blaze

STEPHEN M WALLACE

South Lockport handles plow accident South Lockport EMS and rescue rolled up to a two vehicle accident at the corner of South Transit and Hamm Road in the Town of Lockport. The pick up truck with a plow had a stop sign on Hamm Road and still proceeded onto South Transit striking a passenger car that was northbound. The plow went directly through the passenger front quarter panel into the engine and destroyed the tire. The driver and passengers in the pick up seemed uninjured and refused aid. The female driver in the car was transported by South Lockport EMS to Lockport Memorial Hospital.

JUMP TO FILE #010314129

Tallman Fire Department battled an intense winter storm fire on January 7th. The fire began in a bedroom from a halogen light. Firefighters battled the intense blaze, amongst ex- JUMP TO FILE # treme cold condi- 010914128 tions with temperatures reaching two degrees. without the wind chill factor. Firefighters showed true dedication, to overcome these trying conditions. Tallman Fire Department was assisted by Suffern, Hillcrest, Monsey, Hillburn, Sloatsburg, Nanuet, and Spring Valley Fire Departments as well as and Mahwah Fire Department from New Jersey. Firefighters were rehabed and treated on scene by Ramapo Valley Ambulance Corps and Rockland paramedics Medic 23 - LEWIS LODINI

The roadway had to be shut down for northbound transit at Robinson, which is one of the busiest intersections in the area. Mutual aid from Rapids was called in for fire police, while South Lockport fire police shut down Hamm Road. Deputy David Gantz from the Niagara County Sheriff's office quickly handled his portion of the scene so the cars could be towed and the roadway reopened. - STEPHEN WALLACE

LEWIS LODINI

East Berne hosts 50th Annual Installation Banquet The East Berne Volunteer Fire Company held its 50th Annual Installation Banquet on Saturday January 11, 2014. During the ceremony; line, civil and auxiliary officers were sworn in, JUMP TO FILE # andservice pins 011414116 were awarded. The Firefighter of the Year was awarded to Matthew Farnan for his courageous actions during the rescue of a victim of an accident involving a car and a school bus. Chief Scott Duncan said, "the East Berne Fire Company continues to buck the trend of declining membership. “We have been positively blessed with both new and returning members to the family. That's fifteen new or returning members. “Only a few things make that possible, great commissioners who allow us to have the wonderful equipment that we have, a fantastic district chief for allowing us to be who we are, a group of officers that are second to none, and a community that is supportive in every way."

JAMES GROSS

- JAMES GROSS BOB ROOT

Two vehicle accident Cronomer Valley Fire Department was alerted to a two vehicle accident on Route 32 at Chapel Road. Two vehicle sustained extensive damage. Injuries to the drivers and any passengers is unknown. The accident is under investigation by the Town of Newburgh Police Department. JAMES GROSS

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

March, 2014

Page 21

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PAGE 22

March, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

KEVIN BARRY RFC-PIO

JOHN SMITH

Flooding causes trouble in Sliver Creek On January 11th, Sliver Creek Fire Department, like many other departments throughout the state, had to contend with floorded roads and residences. One of those roads was Route 5, which was closed for several hours.

Rombout Fire Company was dispatched to a report of smoke in the attic area at a residence on Main Street in Fishkill

Rombout battles fireplace fire Fishkill, NY. On the evening of January 4, Rombout Fire Company was dispatched to a report of smoke in the attic area at a residence on Main Street in Fishkill. The first responding crew advanced a hand line into the one and a half story structure finding a fire in and around the fireplace. With an aggressive attack, firefighters were able to extinguish the fire within 20 minutes. Due to the extension into the floor, firefighters needed to remove the concrete hearth to shore up the floor joists under the fireplace. The two tenants, who were home at the time, suffered no injuries, but a total

JUMP TO FILE #011214110

of five people were displaced until repairs to the house could be completed. Events could have been different because the home did not have a fireplace screen or smoke alarms. This house fire was the first of two serious house fires in Dutchess County in the same night and both homes did not have smoke alarms. Main Street (Rt. 52) was closed to traffic in both directions for three hours while crews finished operations and investigated the cause of

the fire which was ruled accidental. The bitter cold temperatures caused icing conditions around the surrounding fire scene and roadway so NYS DOT needed to respond to the scene to sand. Departments that provided mutual aid were Glenham with fire police, Village of Fishkill, North Highlands, City of Beacon for stand-by at Rombout Station 1, Mobile-Life, Town of Fishkill Building Inspector and Police Department, New York State DOT, Central Hudson Gas & Electric and the Duchess County Fire Investigation Division. - KEVIN BARRY

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Fire in Downtown Albany JEFFREY ARNOLD

The City of Albany was toned out to an alarm of fire with multiple calls stating the fire was coming out the windows from the second floor of the Albany News & Grocery. Units arrived in minutes from the first dispatch and called a Signal 30 working fire in a three story brick commercial building. Albany Fire Department set up both truck companies and knocked down the bulk of the fire quickly. Crews had heavy overhaul on the second and third floors. Fire investigators were brought in and the fire is still under investigation.

MVA with entrapment in Rochester Rochester, NY. On Saturday, January 11, at approximately 11:50 a.m., Rochester firefighters and Rural Metro EMS responded to a two vehicle crash with entrapment at the intersection of North Union Street and Weld Street. Firefighters Rescue 11, Engine 17 and Engine 1 worked to extricate the occupants of one of the involved vehicles. Two people were taken to Strong Memorial Hospital with minor injuries. The Rochester Police Department was investigating the cause of the accident.

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

March, 2014

PAgE 23

Orange County Firefighters Museum and Education Center awarded grant

RICHARD E. LINDMARK

The patient is moved from the ambulance to LifeNet 71.

Canaan man suffers burns in tank explosion Columbia County 911 dispatched the Canaan Task Force (Canaan, East Chatham, Lebanon Valley and Red Rock Fire Departments) and Chatham Rescue at 10:50 a.m. for a reported brush ﬁre at 56 Old Hudson Turnpike in Canaan. The ﬁre was reported to have been started by a subject who was cutting an old oil tank on January 1st. Canaan Car 1, William Hanson, advised 911 that there was a burn victim on the scene.

JUMP TO FILE #010214103

A man was cutting an old car gas tank when it exploded and caused burns to his hands, arms and face. A small ﬁre in the tank was put out by a ﬁre extinguisher. A helicopter was requested to the Canaan Town Park to transport the subject. Chatham Rescue transported

the patient from the scene to the Town Park. Canaan 34-1 and 34-2 secured the landing zone. The patient was flown by LifeNet 71 to the burn center at Westchester Medical Center in Valhalla, New York. The New York State Police investigated.Canaan firefighters were back in service at 11:58am. - RICHARD LINDMARK

Exciting news came to the Orange County Firefighters Museum and Education Center on Christmas Day from the Staples Foundation when the museum was notified that their $5,000 grant application was approved. The funding was provided as part of Staples $2 Million & Change program. The program is designed to give $2 million per year to non-profit organizations that support the Foundation’s mission and that are nominated by Staples associates. Staples believes that the best way to give back to our local communities is to give our associates a voice and let them choose. “It is wonderful to have corporations like Staples support our efforts

JUMP TO FILE #010214107

here at the Orange County Fireﬁghters Museum and Education Center and we are extremely grateful to them for approving this grant,” said Ed Devitt, president of the museum. Funding received will be used to implement power point presentations in the museum as well as to increase the DVD library and update the curriculum in the education center. The museum is open from March through December on Saturdays from 1 to 4 pm, or by appointment (845) 457-9666. - ED DEVITT

Visit our website at www.1rbn.com

PAGE 24

March, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Community helps local firefighters fighting cancer

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Albany ﬁre crews operating at the 242 Orange St ﬁre

Two working fires and a grab The Albany Fire Department was very busy on one of the coldest days of 2014. The first fire broke out at 242 Orange Street. Crews arrived calling a Signal 30 with smoke showing. Crews went to work fast, trying to control the fire, but it jumped to an occupied building. Crews had fire coming from the eves and rear of the building. The fire was hard to control due to the building conditions and the weather. With water freezing to the

JUMP TO FILE #010314130

ground, conditions made it hard for crews to operate and when water hit the firefighters gear it froze. City buses were brought in to keep firefighters warm. The fire at 242 Orange Street was brought under control in about a hour. But no sooner did they wrap up with that fire and they were off again. The dispatcher toned crews to an alarm of fire for 28 Dove St

with a person trapped. The first arriving engine called a Signal 30 and went to work. Crews quickly made the rescue of the trapped victim and got him out of the building. Fire crews chased the fire through the cockloft and attic area and to the second floor. Fire crews brought the fire under control quickly. One person was treated and transported to get checked out. - JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

With lines rolling out the door of the Schuyler Heights Fire Company at 8 a.m. as far as the roadway causing the Colonie Police and junior police cadets to be brought in to control the heavy traffic. People poured out by the busload to help support Firefighter Frank Ellsworth of the Schuyler Heights Fire Company, who is fighting a hard fight, not against a burning building, but with cancer. The huge outgoing support could be seen all around the room. The lines wrapped around the whole inside of the building with people talking, laughing, and having a great time in a time of need. It wasn’t just a town resident in need, but one of the town’s heroes in needed of help the most. Firefighters from all over Albany County and the Boy Scout Troop 99 came to help serve food, help with raffles and to help keep the parking of cars going smooth. Firefighters, EMT’s, police, and people from all over the capi-

JUMP TO FILE #012014100

tal region filled both the dining hall and the apparatus bays. The event organizer had a hard question to ask. How do you plan for something you never expect to happen to one of your own? We had to ask ourselves that and figure out a way to help. The fire department was worried the snow was going to hamper the event, but boy were they wrong. They set a goal to earn over $10,000, but that number came and went fast. Firefighter Frank Ellsworth was absolutely overwhelmed by the support he had received. A special thank you was given to the Latham, Maplewood, and Menands Fire Departments for giving their time to help out a brother in need.

- JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Exceptional class achieves Firefighter I certification Twenty-one volunteer firefighters from Potter and Tioga Counties put the frosting on the cake in May 2013 when every student in the class passed the Pennsylvania’s Firefighter 1 certification testing. Another six firefighters passed the written tests and are waiting to become eligible to take the practical test. Many firefighters, both professional and volunteer, attempted this test after weeks or months of training and study. This class left no one behind. All 27 students passed their tests the first time. According to (now retired) Potter County Department of Emergency Service Director, John Hetrick, “A 100% pass rate is unheard of for FF1 testing.” Participants represented volunteer fire companies from Ulysses (Tri-Town), Harrison Township, Genesee Township, Coudersport, Austin, Sabinsville (Clymer), and Westfield (Crary). The eight females and 18 male ranged in ages from 16 to 67, for some it was the beginning of their training, for others who are long time firefighters with many years of training and experience, chose to take this class with their fellow fire-

JUMP TO FILE #010914101

fighters to achieve their FF1 certification. The long road to this achievement started back in November 2012 as they began the Bucks County Community College Basic Fire Academy curriculum. It requires over 196 hours of classroom and hands-on-training. In addition, this class spent multiple weekends and weeknights studying and in practice sessions, in all kinds of weather to achieve their goal. As volunteer firefighters, this training was added to their “regular” time commitments, including full time jobs, school, emergency calls at all hours of the day and night and the needs of their families. However, anyone who knows the volunteer firefighting community knows that it is a “family affair”. This class included two married couples, a set of sisters, a set of brothers, and several sons and daughters. Although they came from several different volunteer fire companies, this class has developed a strong sense of teamwork during

their time together. Volunteers at the Tri-Town Fire Hall provided meals for 30 plus people during every class session, weather it was at the hall or a remote facility. The Local Emergency Planning Committee provided the funding to invest in purchasing the textbooks, so each volunteer would

not have to pay for them. The Wellsville, NY Volunteer Fire Department became a valuable resource, offering the capability for structural burn training and becoming a certiﬁed testing facility. The next closest facility is two hours away and would have been signiﬁcantly more expensive.

Wellsville VFD offered their facility for no more than a donation and has formed a valuable bond of cooperation across the border with the Potter County volunteer ﬁre companies. - ROBIN FREEMAN

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

March, 2014

Page 25

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PAGE 26

March, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

DAVID F. KAZMIERCZAK

Freezing temperatures at blaze Buffalo, NY. Firefighters were called out to battle freezing temperatures and a fire in a one and a half frame dwelling at 216 Baitz Ave. in the city's Clinton Bailey Market section. Firefighters used three-one and three quarter inch hand lines and 60 feet of ladders to bring the fire under control. The stairs to the second floor had burned away and firefighters had to make entry from a second floor window. The chief put a ladder pipe into operation. No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation. Damage was put at $20,000 for 216 Baitz Ave. and 214 received $3,000. Division Chief James LaMacchia was in command.

GLENN CHRISTMAN

Roof ladder work

Niagara County Winter Firefighter I Class Of 2014 On Saturday, January 18, 2014, at Wendelville Fire Company, Niagara County graduated their newest class of firefighters. Seventeen new firefighters had just completed New York State Firefighter I in a full time two week program. The first days were during that first frigid blast of cold weather that this area had. Five of these new firefighters were from Erie County Fire Companies, taking advantage of this full time program due to mid-semester break from college, seasonal work problems, or available vacation. The members of the class were Brendan Mazurek and Melissa

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Suszynski of Main Transit, Colt Gilbert of Sheridan Park, Jason Webb of River Road, and Mark Kromphardt of Getzville. Niagara County members of the class were Andy Dadswell and Ariel Ellsworth of Wendelville, Chad Bigelow and David Hawley of Barker, Paul DiMarco and Rob Fox of South Wilson, Crystal Smiley of Frontier, John Miszuk of Wolcottsville, Joshua Wallace of Adams, Paul Callahan of Upper Mountain, Tyler Couch of St.

Johnsburg, and Taylor Sexton of North Tonawanda. Classes were held at training sites in Niagara County under the direction of Lead Instructor Les Myers, who was assisted by NYS SFI’s Shawn Christman, Sam Ricotta, Tim Williams, John Lapham, and Rich Silvaroli. Additional support was provided by NYS Fire Protection Specialists Dan Hausman and Larry Babcock. Fire companies that provided engines and personnel to make this possible were thanked and recognized during the ceremony. - GLENN CHRISTMAN

Out of Service

DAVID F. KAZMIERCZAK

Buffalo, N.Y. MVA Car vs. Ladder Co.10 Buffalo, NY. Firefighters of Ladder Co. 10 of the 6th Battalion 2nd Platoon struck an auto while responding to a full box response in the city's Lovejoy section. The rig and auto collided at the corner of Lovejoy Ave. and Davey St. The impact sent the car in a spin and it went onto the sidewalk, just missing a building. None of the firefighters were injured. The driver of the car was transported to South Buffalo Mercy Hospital with unknown injuries. The Buffalo Police accident investigation unit was called to the scene.

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

The Center Brunswick Fire Company said goodbye to Engine 7-1, a 1984 Pierce/Ford seating two. Engine 7-1 was the department’s oldest engine in their ﬂeet. The old Engine 7-1 was a 1250 gallon per minute waterous pump with 750 gallon tank. It also has 50 gallons of Class B foam tank for its onboard foam system. This engine had 1250 feet of 4 inch LDH and a full helicopter landing kit.

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

March, 2014

Page 27

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PAGE 28

March, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

KEVIN BRAUTLACHT

Command post keeps track of companies.

Buffalo battles three alarm blaze Buffalo firefighters sounded three alarms to fight a fully involved vacant house at 736 East Amherst Street in the city's Bailey/Kensington neighborhood on January 9, 2014. A quick and coordinated attack saved the occupied structure next door to relatively minor damage. First in Engine 23 immediately pulled off two-two and a half

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inch handlines to protect the exposures and called for a second alarm. The second alarm companies were ordered to respond to Berkshire Avenue and fought the fire from the rear. Crews used six-two and a half

inch and three-one and three quarter inch handlines and one tower ladder. The original fire building suffered a partial collapse. The blaze was brought under control in approximately one hour. - KEVIN BRAUTLACHT

KEVIN BRAUTLACHT

Crews protect the exposure.

TYING THE KNOT If you have photos you would like to see in our Tying the Knot feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.

MIKE CAREY

Schenectady fire chief begins retirement Schenectady, NY. The Schenectady Fire department held a walking out ceremony on Thursday, January 30th for Fire Chief Michael Della Rocco. Della Rocco retired after 37 years with the department. He joined the department in 1975, and became chief in 2011. In the aftermath of the September 11th, 2001 terrorist attacks, he spent time at Ground

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Zero as a member of the New York State urban search and rescue team. As he left, he addressed the department, telling members to be prepared because there's no such thing as a routine call. He told firefighters to respect their com-

munity, respect each other, and most of all respect themselves. Mayor Gary McCarthy now has the task of appointing a new chief. The leading candidate is Assistant Chief Ray Senecal, who has been with the department for 24 years. Senecal was just sworn in January 2nd as Assistant Chief after ten years as a deputy chief. - MIKE CAREY

WILLIAM ROSAS

October 12th, 2013 turned out to be the best day for Jessica Trask and Adam Kilmartin. With friends and family in attendance, Jess and Adam were united in marriage at the St. Johnsville Marina.

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

March, 2014

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March, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

WASHINGTONVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT

First fire of 2014 for Washingtonville On New Year's Day at approximately 8:30 p.m., Washingtonville Fire Department was alerted for a fire in a residential two and a half story dwelling at 1 Mockingbird Lane. Car 2 (Chief Skelly) arrived to find smoke coming from the home and requested mutual aid FAST to the scene. The second alarm was quickly filled as Assistant Chief Skelly investigated and found extensive fire and smoke in the home.

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Engine 584 stretched their 200 foot preconnect and began the attack. Truck 579's crew placed over 116 feet of portable ladders on the outside of the home and sent a crew to the inside of the home for the primary search. During the search, ﬁre was found in the ceiling of the garage.

The bulk of the fire was found between the garage and first floor in the four side wall. All fire was extinguished quickly and overhaul commenced. Departments on scene included Washingtonville, Salisbury Mills and South Blooming Grove. All departments were back in quarters within two hours. - HEATHER PILLSWORTH

DAN CELSO

Sodus Center and Alton Fire Departments respond for chimney fire with extension At 6:08 a.m. on February 4th, the Sodus Center Fire Department with automatic mutual aid from the Alton Fire Department were dispatched to a chimney fire with possible extension on Quarry Road in the Town of Sodus. Car 21-2 called on location of a one story log cabin and confirmed a chimney fire with extension into the wall. Efforts to reach the fire were hampered by construction, as the walls were constructed of eight inch thick wooden beams.

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Once the wall was opened up, the ﬁre was quickly extinguished. Damage to the home was contained to the area of the stove and chimney. Sodus Town Ambulance provided EMS coverage and Wallington Fire Department provided a standby crew. - DAN CELSO

WOMEN IN FIREFIGHTING If you have photos you would like to see in our Women in Fireﬁghting feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.

JOHN MCNULTY

House fire while owners on vacation Windsor firefighters were called to a house fire at 333 Old Route 17 on Monday, November 25, 2013 at 8:00 a.m. Upon arrival, firefighters conducted an aggressive interior attack. Firefighters had a difficult job due to the residence being full of contents. It was determined that the cellar had heavy fire conditions. Command then made the decision to change to an exterior attack, pulling firefighters from the building.

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Approximately 30 minutes later, the floor in the center of the house collapsed. The owners of the structure were out of the country on vacation. The house was a total loss, but firefighters were able to save an attached garage behind the house. One firefighter was taken to Lourdes Hospital, suffering from smoke

inhalation. No other injuries were reported. Windsor was assisted by West Windsor, Five Mile Pt, Ouquaga, Deposit, Harpyrsville and West Colesville Fire Companies. It appears that the fire began from an electrical problem and is being investigated by Broome fire investigators. Windsor was also assisted by Broome county fire coordinators staff. - JOHN MCNULTY

DAVID F. KAZMIERCZAK

On January 22, 2014 Buffalo FD members had a dinner and gift presentation for two recently promoted members, including Lieutenant Wendy Majtyka-Hartman, who was promoted to captain.

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

March, 2014

PAGE 31

For People Who Are Hard of Hearing, STAN DE LONG

Blind, Deaf/Blind, Deep Sleepers & Seniors.

STAN DE LONG

Crew from Eagle-Matt Lee ﬁght the ﬁre from the D side.

Early morning fire destroys bowling alley On Sunday, January 12, 2014 at about 1:27 a.m., Saratoga County Sheriffs Office 911 Center received a call from a motorist who was traveling on State Route 50 in Burnt Hills reporting heavy smoke and fire coming from the Burnt Hills Lanes located on State Route 50 near the intersection of Kingsley Road. Burnt Hills Fire Department was dispatched. Based on the information provided to the responding chief’s, the following agencies were called in for mutual aid; aerial trucks from East Glenville (Schenectady County) and Eagle-Matt Lee (Ballston Spa), full response from Ballston Lake, engine tanker and rescue truck from Charlton and West Charlton to standby in station. First arriving dhiefs found what was once a bowling alley was now a burning structure totally engulfed with a very fast moving fire that had consumed the building before crews had a chance to draw water. The front of the structure was completely gone and leveled as mutual aid units arrived. Small explosions could be heard within the structure and swift moving flames brought on by an easterly wind burning at overhead primary lines creating a safety issue for firefighters on the A side of the building. Command ordered a defensive attack with mutual aid units assisting with protecting neighboring exposed buildings. Nearby residents in apartment buildings were ordered to evacuate their homes. Ballston Lake EMS and Clifton Park-Halfmoon EMS responded to

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the scene for firefighter rehab and safety. Jonesville Fire Department responded with their rehab unit to assist the on scene EMS agencies. Only minor injuries were reported during this incident. An additional engine from Ballston Spa (Union Fire Co 2) and an aerial truck from Round Lake Hose Company were called to the scene to assist. Saratoga County Cause and Origin was called to begin an investigation with the assistance from NYS OFPC. Command called the fire under control at about 4:52 a.m. By 8 a.m., many of the mutual aid companies had been released from the scene. It was a long night and day for many, vainly trying to extinguish the blaze. Even though the structure had collapsed early on, the intense heat allowed the fire to remain burning for many hours. Burnt Hills Fire Auxiliary were on hand to provide refreshments to the on-scene personnel as well as fire police officers stationed at various intersections controlling traffic. Saratoga County Deputy Fire Coordinator Paul Parker Jr assisted with incident command. Burnt Hills Fire Department returned to service at about 3:19 that Sunday afternoon. The investigation into the cause of the fire remains open. - STAN DE LONG

The Silent Call Fire Kit is the perfect fire safety warning system for people who are Deaf, Deaf/Blind, and Hard of Hearing as it gives visual and tactile alerts in the event of an emergency.

www.silentcall.com Phone: (800) 527-5227

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March, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

Special recognition of KBHVAC members A special program was held at the Harvey School to celebrate the Chain of Survival that occurred at that school on October 20, 2013. The event was planned by the school and the family to recognize the extraordinary efforts by all those involved in the amazing save of their son at a preseason basketball practice. Four of our own were honored: David Waill, EMT, Joe McGinn, driver, Sam Lucas, crew, and Harry Albert, Junior Corp and basketball team member. There was an official court

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naming ceremony, "The Court of Heros" with a name recognition plaque hung and forever displayed on the court. Katonah-Bedford Hills Volunteer Ambulance Corp, Westchester EMS, and Bedford (NY) Police combined for the CPR save on a 17 year old male. - LESLEY BOLTZ

LESLEY BOLTZ

Chain of Survival group

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.

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Melrose ﬁreﬁghters removing a victim from the tractor trailer's driver seat

Major hazmat drill in Rensselaer County For most people, Sunday is a day of rest, but not for the fire departments from all over Rensselaer County. Departments came together in the freezing weather to practice a major hazmat drill involving a tractor trailer versus car with a hazmat spill of anhydrous ammonia with people trapped in the vehicle. It all started at the Melrose Fire Department with the dispatcher placing out the call. The Melrose Fire Department rolled from the fire house as if it was a real call. Crews arrived in the area of the mock accident. With no hesitation, crews quickly deployed, while the chief on scene got out the binoculars and checked out the scene from a distance. First arriving crews pulled handlines and masked up to make entry onto the scene as command called for the Rensselaer County Hazmat team with the Rensselaer County Decon Team. Members from the Clinton Heights Fire Departments arrived

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on scene and went to work gearing up with in their class B hazmat suits. Firefighters from the Clinton Height and Melrose Fire Department are part of the specialized team that makes up the Rensselaer County Hazardous Materials Team along with the City of Troy. As the Clinton Heights Fire Department got ready to make entry to plug the leak from the leaking tanker, members of the Melrose Fire Department made a rapid entry to the scene with fog streams to protect the trapped victims and remove them in a rapid manner. While this was going on, the hazmat and decon teams set up for full operations. A full tanker operation also was taking place and crews managed to keep 1250 GPM coming to the scene at all times. The hazmat team from Clinton Heights stayed focused and plugged the leaking valve and

placing the leak under control. Fire Chief Edward Guerin of the Melrose Fire Department stated, “if we ever have a event like this in the Town of Schaghticoke or in the surrounding area, we would be ready and are now better prepared how to handle these types of issues.” This drill caught a lot of attention from the public as people stopped on the side of the road to get a look at what most residents don’t get to see. Residents from the area stated they were very impressed to see the drill and feel a lot safer knowing that their department is so prepared. In total, 13 departments helped out to make this drill run smoothly. Johnsonville, Raymertown, Pittstown, West Sand Lake, Clinton Heights, Melrose, Valley Falls, Schaghticoke, Speigletown, Pleasantdale, Center Brunswick, Hemstreet Park and Hoosic Valley Ambulance participated. - JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

FRANK ROBINSON

The Kingsbury Volunteer Hose Co. No. 1 operates a 2011 International/ 4 Guys 4x4 1500/500.

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1st Responder Newspaper - NY

March, 2014

PAgE 33

MIKE CAREY

WEST RIDGE FD

Hot sale in Latham Latham Fire with Maplewood and Shaker Road Fire Departments responded to a structure fire at 26 Western Ave. A Colonie police unit was first to arrive on scene, calling out that they had a working fire. Latham‘s Engine 419 arrived on scene, alerting the Signal 30 working fire. Crews quickly gained entry into the house, which was up for sale. Crews made a knockdown of the fire inside the home and that’s when Shaker Road truckies went to work on the roof to vent as the fire had worked its way into the roof area. Fire crews had the elements working against them at this fire with temperatures floating around three degrees. With the wind, the conditions made it around minus eleven degrees. Any water that was spread, turned to ice making it slick. Fire investigators were brought in to investigate the cause.

Morristown battles motel fire

MIKE CAREY

Boght holds annual installation banquet Colonie, NY. Members of the Boght Community Fire District gathered on Saturday, January 25th for their annual installation banquet. The event marked the first time in ten years that the department swore in a new chief. Eric Clough stepped down after nine years in the position, and was recognized for his service. His first assistant, Brian LaPlante, was sworn in as the department's new chief. Also being sworn in were Ken Urquhart as 1st Assistant chief and Jake Oreshan III as 2nd Assistant chief. Fred Randall was honored as 2013 Firefighter of the Year, and Matt Anderson was named the 2014 Firefighter of the Year. The newly created award of Probationary Firefighter of the Year went to Matthew Bagley. Urquhart and Mark Dufresne were recognized for their 25 years of service. The department also recognized Clough, LaPlante, and Urquhart for their extensive work in the design and construction of the department's new station.

On February 3rd at approximately 9 p.m. the Morristown and Ogdensburg Fire Departments were dispatched to a reported explosion and fire at the Stone Fence Motel located at 7191 State Highway 37 in Ogdensburg. JUMP TO FILE # Morristown in- 020614122 cident command requested all equipment from Heuvelton and Brier Hill Fire Departments and interior firefighters from Lisbon and Rensselaer Falls. First arriving units reported heavy smoke from the three story wooden commercial building. Ogdensburg and Morristown interior crews were met with heavy smoke and fire on the first floors with the main fire coming from the basement. Interior crews made entry into the basement from the rear to find the crawl space well involved. Crews quickly knocked down the main fire and began a room to room search for anyone who might have been inside the 22 unit motel. For the next few hours firefighters overhauled the stubborn fire, which heavy damaged two rooms and the crawl space and did minor damage to two additional rooms on the second floor. With the aggressive interior attack the rest of the motel including a newly opened restaurant only received minor smoke dam-

KEVIN CROSBY

age. “When we arrived, we had a major fire inside an all wooden three story commercial building. These fire fighters did an amazing job knocking the fire down and limiting the damage,” stated Morristown Fire Chief Kevin Crosby. “Estimated damages are around $250,000 to the $5 million building. It certainly could have been worse, I am proud of these guys.” The fire, which is believed to have started in the crawl space near several electrical distribution panels, is still under investigation by

the St. Lawrence County Cause & Origin Team. Gouverneur, Hammond and DeKalb Fire Departments were all on standby. Morristown was also assisted by National Grid, who cut the power to the building, St. Lawrence Gas shut off the gas supply, the town of Oswegatchie, New York State DOT and the city of Ogdensburg with sand and salt, the city of Ogdensburg Police Department, Ogdensburg Rescue Squad., Morristown FD Auxiliary and the Brier Hill FD Auxiliary. - KEVIN CROSBY

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March, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Rolling stop in the Departments from three counties Town of Brunswick

MARK PICERNO

The Speigletown and Center Brunswick Fire Departments responded to the intersection of Grange and Liberty Roads for a traffic accident. On arrival, fire units found a Ford Escape on its side into a power pole. Crews checked the Ford Escape for the passengers and found out that they self-extricated from the Ford Escape. They refused any medical treatment. Fire crews remained on scene until the car was removed.

battle Tupper Lake Blaze At approximately 4:20 p.m., the alarm went out for a structure fire on Byram Road in the Town of Tupper Lake, bringing in six departments from three separate counties to battle a fully involved residential fire. Arriving units were met with flames and smoke already venting through the roof of the home. The home was located on a dead end road approximately 1/4 of a mile from a main road and water supply became a immediate issue. Due to the heavy fire and threat

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of collapse, it was determined by command to take a defensive posture. Three Blitzﬁre nozzles were deployed around the structure as were numerous hand lines. Mutual aid was requested for manpower from Paul Smith Gabriels, Lake Placid, Long Lake and Cranberry Lake Fire Departments.

As the main body of the fire was knocked down, crews were able to enter the structure and knockdown any remaining fire. Franklin County Cause and Origin arrived on scene and conducted an investigation. The results were not released as of yet. This was Tupper Lake's second structure fire in as many weeks and the 13th in Franklin County, two of which were unfortunately fatal fires. - MARK PICERNO

JEFFREY ARNOLD

Van over embankment in Livonia Livonia, NY. On Saturday, January 18, at about 1:30 p.m., Livonia, Hemlock and Lakeville Fire Department's, along with Livonia EMS responded to a rollover accident at the intersection of Big Tree Road and Longview Blvd. Units arrived on location and found a van on its side, with the passenger still in the vehicle. That passenger was extricated by firefighters, and was transported along with the driver to Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester. Firefighters also contained a small fuel spill. The cause of the crash was under investigation by the New York State Police.

DAVID F. KAZMIERCZAK

Exposure sustains damage Buffalo, NY. Firefighters of the 4th Battalion 4th Platoon were called out to battle a structure fire at 97 Northampton St. on the city's East side on January 25, 2014. The fire was in a two and a half frame occupied dwelling. Firefighters used several one and three quarter inch hand lines and 40 feet of ladders to bring the fire under control. No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation. Damage to the building and contents was listed at $110,000. The exposure building on the B side received some damage.

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

Detroit, Box Alarm Detroit, Box Alarm By Providence Fire Videos Available from: FSP Books & Videos Dept. C67,188 Central Street, #4 Hudson, MA 017491330 1-800-522-8528 E-mail: support@fire-police-ems.com www.fire-police-ems.com Price: $18.00 (DVD)

VIDEO REVIEW Video reviews by John Malecky

This video is 65 minutes long. When I think of Detroit, I think of the Tigers, the Lions, the Red Wings, the Pistons and the flames. The first four are sports teams but the last is simply “fires”, many fires! This video has many fires. In fact, these 14 fires with the exception of two occurred over a three day period. but one of which are in Detroit, and all but one are box alarms. One is a second alarm. It is a assumed that the one, out of town fire in neighboring Highland Park was probably a general alarm as this is a small FD. In this fire, a four story apartment building, the tower overheats and has to be shut down. So, if you figure that the average Detroit firefighter dons his turnouts after roll call and waits for the calls to come in, it may not be that far from the truth! Of the incidents, I believe I remember two church fires, and there are two garage fires one of which has live wires sparking. Firefighters cautiously spray water while truckees await the power company to complete shutting off the electric at the pole. One house fire was caused by a car running into it after the driver had been shot. Both were fully involved. Neighbors removed the driver and firefighters and EMS are seen wheeling him to an ambulance. Nine of the fires occur in either 1 ½ or 2 ½ story vacant dwellings, most fully involved. In fact the last incident sees the DFD return later to the same scene which involved two vacant dwellings. Guess the arsonists used accelerants after the structures were drowned with water. The normal operation was handlines, ladderpipes in some cases, a tower stream, etc. Truckmen performed ventilation from roof ladders and all in all the DFD impresses me as an aggressive firefighting force even with the workload and the fact that many structures are vacant! I also see that their apparatus seem to be in decent shape as many of these pumpers are older, but they are not beat up like you would expect in larger cities. There is plenty of action here for the viewer.

March, 2014

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March, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

KEVIN BRAUTLACHT

Buffalo battles fire and Wrights Corners Fire Company bitter temperatures STEPHEN M WALLACE

The Ofﬁcers of 2014 pose next to the new E-1 engine

75th Anniversary The installation committee Paul Patterson, Terri Hockenberry, Lori Hunter, Kyle LaRuffa, Marc Lussier, Cynthia McLaughlin, and Michael Norwood turned the Wrights Corners Fire Company recreation hall into a red carpet gala event. The tables were graced in green and white, the colors of Wrights Corners Fire Company. Each place setting had a special engraved wine glass and cakes were placed around on all the tables. This was the 75th Anniversary for Wrights Corners. It started all those years ago, September 1939 when 50 men gathered and gave a dollar each. The application for a charter was made and on December 18, 1939 with bylaws in place the company was incorporated. President Lowell Dickinson honored the original charter members and the room stood to applaud Cyril Wick, a surviving member of the original 50, who was sitting at the head table. Master of Ceremonies FASNY Board of Directors member Edward Tase Jr. started off the night with a welcome and then introduced Wayne Jagow for a warming invocation. A beautiful service was presented honoring the members, who answered their last call in 2013 and then a speech on how the company still honors all those

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original members. State Senator George Maziarz honored this amazing company and it's 75 years. The Senator also brought with him, the County Majority leader, the Town Supervisor both from Newfane and Lockport since Wrights Corners district covers both and all presented proclamations thanking the company and all it's members for everything they do. Fire chiefs and representatives from surrounding companies including South Lockport Chief Tim Glasser, Rapids Chiefs Joe Fries and Barry Kobrin, Terry Corner's Chief Chris McClune and T.C. Durff attended. Incoming Chief Dan Handrich gave praise to all members who helped Wrights Corners rise to new response levels this past year and that he hopes he can help the company keep growing to new levels of expertise and response. Dan also acknowledged and gave thanks to outgoing Chief Timothy Williams JR. for his dedication and devotion. It was a night of remembering and giving thanks and it was a wonderful night of laughter and good times. Lockport Town Supervisor

Nancy Brooks had the honor of swearing in all the officers, ladies auxiliary, and fire police. Even State Senator George Maziarz added a few laughs, telling everyone that he and Nancy were classmates graduating from North Tonawanda in 1992. Wrights Corners President Lowell Dickinson made sure he acknowledged and thanked his guests. Lowell also had a special time capsule that he had blessed and would be locked in the display case until it is opened in 25 years. The fire and administration side was sworn in for 2014: President Lowell Dickinson, VP Joseph Mangiafesto, Treasurer Michael Norwood, Recording Sec. Sandta Ben, Corsp. Sec. Kelly Coyle, Head Trustee Brian Hallows, 2nd year Brian Hallows, 3rd Eric Beiser, Chaplian Jack Bridwell, Sergent at Arms John Lobczowski Sr, and Steward Eric Beiser. The firematic side includes Chief Dan Handrich, 1st Asst. Kyle LaRuffa, 2nd Jeff Seefeldt, 3rd Tracy Jufer. Master Mechanic Ryan Dickinson, Fire Police James Little JR., and Parade Marshall David Weaver. Once the meal and ceremonies was completed, the hall was alive with music and dancing. - STEPHEN WALLACE

Buffalo firefighters responded to 215 Scoville Street on February 7, 2014 to battle a structure fire in an occupied two story wood frame. Temperatures were in the single digits with a wind chill well below zero making it more difficult for firefighters to fight the blaze. The fire was started by workmen using a torpedo heater to thaw out frozen pipes. Command requested an extra two engines and one ladder to assist opening up the walls and ceilings to gain access to the fire. The balance of the second

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alarm was called to provide relief for crews due to the bitter cold. Fireﬁghters used three-one and three quarter inch hoselines to bring the ﬁre under control. Damage was listed as $55,000 to the building and $30,000 to the contents. The Red Cross is assisting the family. - KEVIN BRAUTLACHT

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

March, 2014

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March, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

JEFFREY ARNOLD

Tyler's honorary Penﬁeld Fire Department helmet

JEFFREY ARNOLD

Penﬁeld Fire Chief Chris Ebmeyer with the ﬁre helmet that was presented to Tyler Doohan's mother.

Young man who saved family from burning home laid to rest Fairport, NY. Penfield firefighters have adopted as one of their own a nine year old boy, who died saving six relatives from a fire that destroyed his grandfather's home on January 20. On Wednesday, January 29th, firefighters from across the region and beyond paid respects at St. John of Rochester Catholic Church for Tyler Doohan and the fire's two other victims, his grandfather and step-greatgrandfather. Penfield Fire Chief Chris Ebmeyer presented an honorary fire helmet to Tyler's mother. The funerals of the other two

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victims, 54-year-old Stephen Smith and 63-year-old Lewis Beach, were held along with Tyler's. After hearing about the tragedy, a basketball team from Silver Lake College of the Holy Family in Wisconsin traveled to New York to serve as pallbearers. About 100 firefighters were also in attendance. Reports indicate that Tyler alerted his family to the blaze and got out. When he realized that two

family members were missing, he then ran back in to try and get them. The trailer did not appear to have a working smoke detector The cause of the blaze appears to have been of accidental origin, but remains under investigation. The great-grandmother of Tyler Doohan, also passed away soon after the funeral. Barbara Beach, 66, who was seriously burned in the fire, died January 31, at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester. - JEFFREY ARNOLD

MICHAEL MCCAGG

Niverville battles single family house fire Firefighters from ten departments responded to a structure fire on Maple Lane in the town of Kinderhook, Columbia County on January 27th. Columbia County 911 dispatched the Niverville Task Force of Niverville, Kinderhook and Valatie Fire Departments at 2 p.m. for a reported structure fire. Niverville confirmed a working structure fire and requested tankers and manpower from Stuyvesant, Tri Village, Ghent, Stockport, North Chatham, Chatham, and South Schodack Fire Departments to the scene. Stuyvesant Falls, Nassau and Schodack Landing Fire Companies were placed on standby. Valatie Rescue Squad, American Red Cross New York State Police and the Columbia County Sheriff's Department were also on the scene. Units were back in service by 5:17 p.m.

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

March, 2014

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FACES OF NEW YORK’S EMERGENCY SERVICES To see your action shots in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.

GLENN CHRISTMAN

Niagara County Winter Fireﬁghter I class

HEATHER PILLSWORTH

John Hesse Sr of the Salisbury Mills-Mountain Lodge Fire Company received a special award from Chief Brian Zaccaro for this assistance to Washingtonville Fire Department

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

West Sand Lake Fire Department running rehab at a winter drill

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Rensselaer County Hazmat Coordinators on one of the biggest drills of the year

MIKE CAREY

Mechanicville Rookie of the Year Tony Cuilla and his brother, Ofﬁcer of the Year Tim Cuilla

PAGE 40

March, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

KEVIN BRAUTLACHT JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Truck companies in full operation

Two vacant buildings go up in flames ruled suspicious Two vacant buildings on 5th Ave in downtown Troy went up in flames on February 3rd. The fire broke out just before midnight with multiple calls pouring in to the 911 center for a garage on fire behind bombers restaurant. This fire broke out about a block away from Troy’s main station. No sooner than the tones were dropped, the chief called for an additional engine to the scene. Firefighters arrived on scene to

JUMP TO FILE #020414100

a fully involved garage with the fire jumping in to the vacant buildings behind it. Crews quickly moved to master stream operations to get a hand on the fire and stopping the fire spread. Troy Fire Department Chief Tom Garrett stated the fire is suspicious because there is not a reason for a fire to occur. “There’s no

reason for a fire that size to get going,” he said. “Obviously, the building was set on fire. There is no electricity hooked up to the buildings. There is not gas in there. There is no one living there. There is nothing.” Fire crews were on the scene most of the night and most of the next day. The fire has been ruled as a suspicious fire and is under investigation. - JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

KEVIN BRAUTLACHT

DAVID F. KAZMIERCZAK

Technical rescue of a dog in park Buffalo, NY. Fire Department's Technical Rescue Team Engine Co. 21, Ladder Co. 6 and Rescue Co. 1 were called out early Sunday morning February 2nd to MLK Park on the city's East side. Mattie Moore was taking her dog Max for a walk in the park and her foot and leg went through the ground. Ms. Moore had to use her arms to pull herself away from the hole. Max hearing her cries came to her aid, but fell into the

JUMP TO FILE #020314106

hole behind her. Battalion 3 Chief Mark Hillery had the technical rescue team put down plywood around the hole. Max was down about eight feet and in water for about an hour before help was summoned. A tripod was set up and Firefighter Mike Paveljack of Rescue

Co. 1 was put in a class 3 harness and lowered into the hole. The dog was not aggressive and a makeshift harness was put around him. He was brought to the surface. It looks like a water leak caused the sink hole. The city engineer and the water department were called. - DAVID KAZMIERCZAK

Buffalo Fire Department battles fire and bitter temperatures Buffalo firefighters responded to 215 Scoville Street on February 7, 2014 to battle a structure fire in an occupied two story wood frame. Temperatures were in the single digits with a wind chill well below zero making it more difficult for firefighters to fight the blaze. The fire was started by workmen using a torpedo heater to thaw out frozen pipes. Command requested an extra two engines and one ladder to assist opening up the walls and ceilings to gain access to the fire. The balance of the second

JUMP TO FILE #071513129

alarm was then called to provide relief for crews due to the bitter cold. Fireﬁghters used three-one and three quarter inch hoselines to bring the ﬁre under control. Damage was listed as $55,000 to the building and $30,000 to the contents. The Red Cross is assisting the family. - KEVIN BRAUTLACHT

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

March, 2014

PAge 41

Laugh your way to the bank with a stand-up comedy fund-raiser

MIKE CAREY

Mechanicville installs officers (Mechanicville, NY)-- The Mechanicville Fire department held its annual installation banquet Saturday January 18th. Jim Corrigan was sworn in as the department's new chief, replacing Jeff Alonzo who becomes the department's Deputy chief. Dave Zecca was sworn in as Assistant Chief. Michael Burgess received the award for firefighter of the year with Tim Cuilla named officer of the year. Tony Cuilla was named rookie of the year. The President's award went to Kim Wheeler.

Transitioning EMS ISSUE 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 accepted 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

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

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March, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

FACES OF NEW YORKS’S EMERGENCY SERVICES To see your action shots in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com

DAVID F.KAZMIERCZAK

Fireﬁghter Terry Trillo and Captain Mark Mendola Buffalo Fire Department Engine Co. 3 on the job at the ﬁre at 267 Katherine St. December 23, 2013.

DAVID F. KAZMIERCZAK

Fireﬁghter Geary Schurr Rescue Co. 1 at a ﬁre on Summer Street in Buffalo

GARY HEARN

Dan Hearn, Assistant Chief Jim Skelly, Captain Brain Bates, Steve Palermo, Lieutenant Matt Hodge, Tim Pillsworth, Vinny Federici at the scene of a mutual aid ﬁre in Chester on January 2nd. This was Hodge's last ﬁre with Washingtonville. He recently took a position with the Virginia Beach Fire Department.

STEPHEN M WALLACE

JOHN HOPPER

1st Assistant Chief Tim Glaser 45, who will be moving up to chief, gets a congratulatory hug from outgoing Chief Derek Caldwell

A ﬁreﬁghter in Yonkers rescued a dog from a home at 58 Hyatt Avenue

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

March, 2014

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PAGE 44

March, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

SHOTS FROM AROUND THe STATe To see your shots in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.

HEATHER PILLSWORTH

Washingtonville Man of the Year TC Lynn received his award from Commissioner Dave Phillips

DAVID KAZMIERCZAK

F.F. Jason Czora Rescue Co. 1 2nd Platoon.

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Latham Fireﬁghter Albright at a ﬁre at 26 Western Avenue in Latham

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Two ﬁreﬁghters from Raymertown at a second alarm in Valley Falls

MIKE CAREY

Mechanicville ﬁreﬁghter of the year Michael Burgess

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

March, 2014

PAgE 45

HEATHER PILLSWORTH DAVID F. KAZMIERCZAK

Monell Engine Company line officers

Residents forced out into the cold Buffalo, NY. Firefighters of the 4th Battalion 4th Platoon were called out to battle a structure fire at 236 Potomac Ave. on the city's West side on Thursday morning, January 9, 2014. Several residents were forced to flee into freezing temperatures with just the cloths on their backs. Firefighters used three-one and three quarter inch hand lines and 35 feet of ladders to bring the fire under control. The fire started on the first floor and spread to the second floor and attic. No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation. Division Chief James LaMacchia was in command and put damages to the two and a half frame structure at $105,000.

HEATHER PILLSWORTH

Monell Engine Company civil officers

Washingtonville Fire Department celebrates with installation dinner

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Car versus tree in Stuyvesant Fire crews in the Town of Stuyvesant responded for a car versus tree at 243 Eichybush Road. Firefighter arriving found a car had crashed in to a tree due to icy roads. Fire crews had to use extraction tool to pop the doors to remove the trapped driver and passenger. Both the driver and the passenger were transported to the hospital for their injuries.

On Saturday, January 18, 2013, the membership and special guests of the Monell Engine Company of the Washingtonville Fire District celebrated at their annual installation banquet at their fire house. The evening began with the introduction of the Monell line officers, civil officers, ladies auxiliary, visiting chiefs and special guests. A special plaque was given to John Hesse Sr. of the Salisbury Mills-Mountain Lodge Fire Company for his years of dedicated service and assistance to the Washingtonville Fire Department. President Dennis Geyer gave a special plaque to Ken Koeller of Yankee Propane for his continued support of the department and all they have done to assist the department in a tough economy. The Mayor of Washingtonville Dave Heintz presented a very special plaque to the membership for their dedicated service to the community. Recently, the mayor suffered a heart attack. He thanked the members for all they did to help him and the community at a time

JUMP TO FILE #071513129

when it was needed. Washingtonville Firefighter Karl Burke was recognized for the extra work that his does around the station, including the mounting of equipment, running of wires and making minor repairs. The 2013 Man of the Year Award was given to Thomas (TC) Lynn in appreciation of his dedication and fundraising efforts throughout the year. Top responders for 2013 included Sean McAuliffe (167 calls), Mark Alicia (170 calls), Albert Perri (172 calls), Sean McDaid (186 calls), Stephen Smith (214 calls), Brian Branath (215 calls), Joseph Courter (218 calls), Christopher VanRiper (220 calls), Joseph Federici (235), and the top responder was Vincent Federici with 242 calls. The following firefighters were honored for multiple years of service including Karl Burke for five

years, Stephen Palermo for ten years, Chris Schroeder for 15 years, Aaron Forman for 20 years, Kevin Schaffer for 35 years, James Conley and Stephen J Smith for 40 years, Daniel Leahy for 45 years as well as Al Perri for 55 years of service to the company. The 2014 line officers are Chief Brian Zaccaro, 1st Assistant Chief Jim Skelly, 2nd Assistant Chief Gary Hearn, Captain Brian Bates, 1st Lieutenant Mike Butkus, 2nd Lieutenant Matt Hodge, 3rd Lieutenant William Morrissey, Chief Engineer Chris Van Riper and Fire Police Captain Kevin Flanagan. The civil officers are President Dennis Geyer, Vice President Henry Ponti, Treasurer Fred Krampe, Recording Secretary Kevin Schaffer and Financial Secretary Mel Gioia. The evening continued with a buffet dinner, dancing and comeraderie. Congratulations to the officers and members of Monell Engine Company. - HEATHER PILLSWORTH

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1st Responder Newspaper - NY

STEPHEN M WALLACE

Middleport working apartment fire with six trapped The call came out for Niagara County Sheriff Deputy S h a n n o n Rodgers and Middleport PoJUMP TO FILE # lice Chief John 010814102 Swick or an apartment fire on Telegraph Road with people trapped by fire, including four children. Chief John Swick has lived and worked in this area for decades. It is his home and he knows the people and the buildings. Today that would pay off. As he pulled up, he found the front of the apartment engulfed from top to bottom with smoke and fire. Chief Swick ran to the back as Niagara County Sheriff Deputy Shannon Rodgers pulled up and joined him. Middleport Fire had already been dispatched by fire control. Captain Bruce Elliott, the Senior Road Captain, had radio go to emergency traffic for these two officers. Chief Swick ran to the back knowing the building’s bedroom windows were on the second floor in the rear. He yelled to one of the female adults to try and get the window open. Chief Swick new if he broke the sliding glass door that the rush of fresh oxygen could be all the fire needed to finish the job. Finally, the window opened and Swick standing 6' 3" had the women hand the children down to him, all under the age of seven. As Swick grabbed them, he got them to Deputy Shannon Rodgers who rushed them out of harms way, as smoke and flames raced toward them.

Once all the children were safe, Swick coached the two female adults to a lower roof, where they could be reached and rescued. Middleport Fire Chief wasted no time calling in Medina for a ladder and engine, Along with Medina, he brought in Gasport with a ladder and engine. This fire was moving fast and was well into the roof. Approximately 500 feet of five inch feed line was laid in from the first hydrant, giving the companies a great supply of water to feed all the lines and trucks. As the first hand lines hit the fire, there was a number of small pop like explosions. Crews did a great job keeping two autos that were parked right in the flames path from catching on fire. Crews from all the departments worked under the direction of Middleport's fire chief ventilating and ripping siding down to get to the hidden fires all over the building. Neighbors came up and gave thanks to Chief Swick and Deputy Rodgers for saving all those lives. Chief Swick just smiled and said, "this is a good day" and if you know Chief Swick you understand. He knows he did his job. Gasport’s ladder was maneuvered to the roof and a ventilation hole was placed. Crews from inside and out were finally able to knock the fire out and start over haul. Niagara County Origin and cause were called into the scene to investigate. All firefighters were safe. All residents got out safely. No others structures were involved. - STEPHEN WALLACE

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1st Responder Newspaper - NY

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