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BRUSH FIRE SPREADS RAPIDLY, FULLY-ENGULFING A FREEHOLD HOME
THOMAS MARRA
Freehold, NY - Fire Departments from all over Greene, Albany and Columbia Counties, as well as area Haz-Mat agencies, were dispatched after a brush fire engulfed a residence at a Freehold business on February 22nd. Freehold and Greenville Fire Departments were dispatched to 3493 Route 67 just prior to 2:00 P.M., for a small brush fire behind the residence on the property of Smiley's Equipment. - See full story on page 2
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March, 2020
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
Brush Fire Spreads Rapidly, Fully-Engulfing a Freehold Home Freehold, NY - Fire Departments from all over Greene, Albany and Columbia Counties, as well as area Haz-Mat agencies, were dispatched after a brush fire engulfed a residence at a Freehold business on February 22nd. Freehold and Greenville Fire Departments were dispatched to 3493 Route 67 just prior to 2:00 P.M., for a small brush fire behind the residence on the property of Smiley's Equipment. Within minutes the small brush fire spread to the residence, which quickly became engulfed in flames. The Greene County Haz-Mat and Columbia County Haz-Mat teams were called to the scene with DEC due to some fuel that was spilling on the scene, according to Assistant Chief James DiPerna of the Freehold Fire Department. DiPerna also said that the Haz-Mat teams had air compressors on-board to help fill the air packs for the firefighters on the scene. "In Greene County we started the Battalion Response as of January 1st," said Greene County Deputy Fire Coordinator Eric Bear. "I had activated Battalion Response for this area immediately and then we activated another Battalion Response because we needed more water." He says there were many difficulties getting trucks close to the house since the water was creating lots of mud on the property, as well as other obstacles including lots of farm equipment. A pond on the property was used as a water source to supply the apparatus in the rear of the structure, with more portable tanks being set up and using a tanker shuttle to supply another ladder truck at the scene. At this time it is unclear how many people lived in the home and how many were inside at the time, however, upon the arrival of crews there were many people and animals running in and out of the house, according to Bear. He says there were goats, some cows, horses, dogs, and at least one bird, and he says it is unclear if any animals perished in the fire. Somebody at a local rescue farm in Freehold that helped take in some of the animals displaced
JUMP TO FILE #022420122 by the fire says that there were six goats that are safe at the rescue farm, as well as three birds and four dogs. They say an 8-monthold puppy is still missing. At one point Firefighters Kayla Curtis and Kristina Vitale of the Medway-Grapeville Fire Department noticed an American Flag on the front porch of the home as flames began getting more intense. They ran over and grabbed the flag before the front of the home was soon engulfed in flames as well. There were three 175-gallon fuel tanks in the rear of the structure as well as propane and diesel tanks that were exploding and leaking fuel, according to Bear. In addition to requesting tankers, fire command was requesting additional manpower to the scene for members with additional airpacks. "With unknown type gases with cancer in the system now and people getting cancer in the fire service, you've gotta be on air when you were up near the house," he said. "We were rotating airpacks and people out." Agencies that either responded to the scene or were on standby included Freehold, Greenville, East Durham, Cairo, Medway-Grapeville, Round Top, Earlton, Oakhill-Durham, Catskill, Westerlo, Medusa, TriVillage, Berne, Onesquethaw, Coxsackie, New Baltimore, Athens, West-Athens, Leeds, Hensonville, Kiskatom, and Palenville Fire Departments. Also assisting were Greene and Columbia County Haz-Mat teams, DEC Spill Response, Greenville, Durham, Cairo, Catskill and Ravena ambulances, Greene County Paramedics, Greene County Sheriff's Department, New York State Police, and auxiliary members from many departments bringing refreshments to those on the scene. At this time there doesn't appear to be any injuries. The Red Cross was on the scene to assist those that have been displaced in the fire.
Assistant Chief Sean Conway of the Medway-Grapeville FD requesting additional resources at the scene of the structure fire.
- THOMAS MARRA
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THOMAS MARRA
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First responders bringing pet birds away from the burning home.
THOMAS MARRA
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
March, 2020
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March, 2020
1St Responder Newspaper - NY
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BOB ROOT
Middlehope Home Damaged by Afternoon Fire Middlehope, NY - Just after 1:00 P.M. on Friday, February 21st, Middlehope firefighters were dispatched to 109 Bennett Road for reports of a structure fire. On arrival Command confirmed a working fire and requested a first-alarm assignment. A second-alarm was called shortly after for a chimney fire with extension into the attic of the home.
PATCH OF THE MONTH If you have photos you would like to see in our “Patch of the Month” feature please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
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1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New York edition - Vol. 21 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. Printed in Canada.
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This patch belongs to the Ira Volunteer Fire Department, located in Cayuga County, NY.
RON JEFFERS
Rookie Firefighter Sam Springstein with his family, Fire Chief Steven McGill and Mayor Steve Fulop.
A Fire Department Ceremony With National Attention Jersey City, NJ - The Jersey City Fire Department added 15 new members on the morning of January 14th during a ceremony that attracted local and national media personnel. The City Council Chambers in City Hall was standing room only as family, friends, city officials and first responders gathered to see the new firefighters sworn in by Mayor Steven Fulop and Chief of Department Steven McGill. Among the new recruits was the son of Bruce “The Boss” Springsteen, Sam Springsteen. His parents and family members watched with pride as he was sworn in. Sam, 25, is the youngest of Bruce and Patti Scialfa's three children. Sam has previously served as a volunteer firefighter in the state. As usual, the department's ceremony was professional in every way, leaving good memories of this important day for recruits and their families. The recruits were led into the chambers by the Fire Department Honor Guard and the Jersey City Firefighter's Pipes and Drums Emerald Society. The Springsteen rookie wasn't singled out during the swearing-in, he was just one of the new recruits. “This is my son's day,” The Boss said after the ceremony. “We're very proud of him.” In reference to his completed training at the Morris County Pub-
JUMP TO FILE #011720110 lic Safety Training Academy, Sam Springsteen said, “It wasn't easy.” These new members also received EMT training. Chief McGill pointed out that the Fire Department now has its first two sisters on the job. Battalion Chief Constance Zappella stood with her sister, Francesca, as she took the oath. Francesca had served the city as a police officer for three years. “If I hadn't seen how much she loved her job I don't think I would've switched over,” Francesca said of her battalion chief sister. The Fire Department now has 666 members protecting the city of nearly 200,000. Mayor Fulop was proud of the fact that the city no longer has a “brown out” policy, that closed as many as five fire companies on a shift when manpower was low. The other new appointed firefighters are: Thomas McFarlane, John Bramley Jr., Conor Keim, Shane Richeal, Jason Garrison, Omar Soto, Sean Brady, Connor Wujciak, Angel Ortez, Francis Degnan, Richard Ferment, Andrew Crilly and Luke Gibbons. - RON JEFFERS
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
March, 2020
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March, 2020
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
In memory of those who gave all
1st Responder Newspaper honors and remembers emergency responders lost in the line of duty
Colorado: Kenneth Jones, 46 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: December 7, 2019 Death Date: December 7, 2019 Fire Department: Summit Fire & EMS Authority Initial Summary: On Saturday, December 7, 2019, at approximately 0200hrs., Firefighter Kenneth Jones responded to a multi-residential structure fire. Jones had climbed to the roof of the five-story building in search of access to the fire when he fell off of the structure. He was immediately transported to the hospital where he passed away. Pennsylvania: Michael Christopher Malinowski, Sr., 40 Rank: Captain Incident Date: December 2, 2019 Death Date: December 3, 2019 Fire Department: Morton-Rutledge Volunteer Fire Company Station 13 Initial Summary: On Monday, December 2, 2019, at approximately 2000hrs., Captain Michael Christopher Malinowski responded to a call of reported downed wires and trees. After returning to the station, he complained to his fellow firefighters that he wasn’t feeling well. The next day, Tuesday, December 3, 2019, while at work, he became ill and was immediately taken to the hospital where he passed away a short time later from an apparent heart attack.
New York: Michael Cardinale, Sr., 63 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: December 18, 2019 Death Date: December 18, 2019 Fire Department: East Farmingdale Fire Company Initial Summary:On Wednesday, December 18, 2019, at approximately 1140hrs., Firefighter Michael Cardinale, Sr., responded to a vehicle crash. After returning to the station, he went upstairs to the sitting area. Approximately 25 minutes later, a fellow firefighter found him
unresponsive and immediately performed life-saving efforts to revive him. He was transported to the hospital where he was pronounced deceased. Missouri: Charles "Chuck" McCormick, 30 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: January 5, 2020 Death Date: January 5, 2020 Fire Department: West Peculiar Fire Protection District Initial Summary: On Sunday, January 5, 2020, at approximately 1104hrs., Firefighter Charles “Chuck” McCormick responded to a residential structure fire. When Firefighter McCormick entered the structure, the floor collapsed and he fell into the basement. He was rushed to the Belton Regional Medical Center where he later passed away from the injuries he sustained in the fall.
Maryland: Otis L. Isaacs, Jr., 73 Rank: Assistant Engineer Incident Date: December 28, 2019 Death Date: December 29, 2019 Fire Department: North East Fire Company Initial Summary: On Saturday, December 28, 2019, Assistant Engineer Otis L. Isaacs, Jr., was fixing a break on a fire engine and was on stand-by for two responses. While on stand-by, he assisted with a function the fire department was having that evening by setting up tables and chairs. He returned to the station the next morning, Sunday, December 29, 2019, to work on another fire department vehicle. When he returned home late that morning, at approximately 1130hrs., he suffered a cardiac arrest and passed away.
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March, 2020
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March, 2020
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
HE HE ER ERO ROES RO OES ES INK INK
1st Responder Newspape er features EMERGENCY SERVICES RELA ATED TATTOOS
JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER/SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY
Fast-Moving Fire Destroys Strip Mall in Hillsdale
"My name is Matthew Plew and I'm a volunteer firefighter for Brunswick Fire Company No.1 in Upstate New York. I've been a firefighter for almost 7 years now, following in my dad's footsteps, who is the chief of my department. This tattoo means a lot to me. Firefighting is a huge piece to my life and has been for many years. My hardwork and dedication to my community, and becoming a firefighter 7 years ago was the best thing I ever did."
Hillsdale, NY - On February 16th at 2:12 P.M., the Hillsdale Fire Department was dispatched to 2828 Route 23 for multiple calls reporting a commercial structure fire. The first arriving Chief on scene had heavy fire pushing from the rear of a strip mall. Command immediately requested mutual aid to the scene. As command conducted a walkaround of the building he noticed numerous propane tanks on the back of the building with fire impingement on them. The well involved fire had already pushed through the roof of the building as the first engine company arrived. The lightweight truss construction made it easy for the fire to rapidly spread. As firefighters began setting up
JUMP TO FILE #022420119 a tanker operation in front of the building, the heavily involved roof collapsed into the structure. Copake Fire Department arrived on scene, set up their truck company and began to conduct master stream operations. Firefighters pulled numerous hand lines and began to knock down the heavy fire. Command requested mutual aid from a large portion of southern Columbia County, Dutchess County and Massachusetts. Firefighters were able to stop the fire before spreading to the Four Brothers Pizzeria. As crews began to bring
the fire under control, the task of overhauling the badly damaged building began. Firefighters checked the roof area on the other side of the firewall and discovered that the fire did not fully travel through the fire stop. Firefighters had minor extension into the other portion of the building where flames had gone around the fire stop in the back of the building. Crews remained on scene for a large portion of the evening. The strip mall was a total lost in the area effected by the fire. No firefighters or civilians were injured,and the fire is currently under investigation. - JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER
DRILLS/TRAINING
To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
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CODE 35 FIRE PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN GRECO
The Town of Seneca FD recently held their annual required training at the Stanley firehouse. FD personnel from other area departments were also in attendance. Pictured are attendees listening to instructor Deb Trickey from the Ontario County Fire Coordinators Office going over yearly PESH and OSHA training.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
March, 2020
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Mobile Life Support Services Celebrates National Wear Red Day, Raises Awareness for Heart Health New Windsor, NY - February is American Heart Month and Mobile Life Support Services, the largest emergency medical provider in the Hudson Valley, has JUMP TO FILE # taken measures to raise 021120107 awareness about heart disease and methods of prevention. On Friday, February 7th, members of the Mobile Life team participated in National Wear Red Day, an annual kickoff initiative celebrated on the first Friday of February that encourages people across the country to wear red to raise awareness about heart disease. National Wear Red Day is a reminder to all to pay attention to the signals your body sends you and to get checked out if you suspect you may have a cardiac issue. Signs and symptoms can be subtle and/or obscure, especially for women. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), heart disease is the number one killer of women, resulting in more deaths per year than all forms of cancer combined. For this reason, the AHA has also instituted its Go Red for Women campaign. Go Red is an acronym for: -Get your numbers -Own your lifestyle -Realize your risk -Educate your family -Don’t be silent Risk factors for heart disease include smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, physical inactivity and diabetes. Age and family history can also be indicative of a person’s risk for developing the disease. Lifestyle changes, such as refraining from smoking, eating heart-healthy foods and engaging in regular exercise can reduce an individual’s risk of heart disease. The AHA strongly urges everyone to learn proper CPR techniques. Each year, over 350,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur in the U.S. Statistics show that if more people knew CPR, more lives would be saved. To register for a class, please visit www.mobilelife.com/education. “CPR is truly a life-saving skill. Whether you’re in the EMS industry, a parent, a babysitter or a bystander who happens upon someone in need of Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation, receiving the training and certification in CPR can make the difference between life or death,” said Mobile Life President and CEO Scott Woebse. “Not only is it important to know how to treat someone in cardiac distress, but also to be able to recognize the warning signs. American Heart Month is an opportunity for us all to educate ourselves and others about the signs, symptoms and tragic effects cardiovascular diseases can have on ourselves and those around us.” Mobile Life is committed to the mission of decreasing mortality and morbidity from heart disease and stroke. The company’s more than 500
emergency service professionals utilize treatment modalities and medications researched and developed by the AHA. Mobile Life is also an AHA Authorized Provider of CPR and ECC (Emergency Cardiovascular Care) courses. Its New Windsor headquarters has been an American Heart Association Community Training Center for more than 20 years. For a full list of available courses, or to learn more about Mobile Life, visit the company’s website at www.mobilelife.com. Individuals interested in employment opportunities with Mobile Life should visit the company’s website to submit an application or inquire about educational opportunities to become certified. - FOCUS MEDIA, INC.
PROVIDED
Mobile Life Support Services staff observe National Wear Red Day on February 7th to raise awareness of heart disease.
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
Spring makes Jack Frost green with envy… FORK & HOSE CO. a Food Blog by A.J. Fusco
But why would Jack Frost be so jealous of Spring? Oh I don’t know, maybe it's because the vegetables and herbs he murdered are all coming back to life like a bunch of delicious, green zombies! Ok, maybe I took it a little too far with the zombie thing. It’s just that I get really excited thinking about all the green starting to sprout up, some of the first being fresh herbs. They make a dish pop more than any other garnish and when properly used, can separate most home cooked meals from those found in restaurants. Details like the use of fresh basil as a garnish for your
pasta or fresh rosemary on roasted potatoes can take your food to the next level, much more so than using the stale dried stuff that has been sitting in the back of your cabinet for 3 years. Fun fact: I actually found Paprika in my mom’s house from 1983, the year I was born! All joking aside, fresh herbs add so much flavor and nutrients to a dish without adding extra fat or calories. But it also comes at a cost. Some recipes only call for a scant amount, which can inevitably lead to the rest eventually rotting away in the crisper. If your soft fresh herbs like parsley, basil or cilantro are starting to wilt, soak them in ice water for 20 minutes and they should perk right up. But if that doesn’t work, blend them into a sauce like the aptly named Green Sauce. My first experience with Green Sauce was at a restaurant I
worked at in Manhattan, where we served it with rotisserie chicken. It’s bright, tangy flavor cut through the richness of the chicken perfectly. Under the command of Chef April Bloomfield, we wasted NOTHING! It was a whole animal butcher shop/restaurant so we were very conscious about using all the scraps from the animals and vegetables. This ethos has stayed with me ever since. In my version of Green Sauce, I use whatever herbs I have lying around. Sometimes it may be only cilantro, and others cilantro, basil and parsley. It is one of those “good on everything” recipes that
pairs exceptionally well with grilled chicken. And while grilled chicken breast would certainly do just fine, why not take it up a notch and grill a whole spatchocked chicken. If you are not familiar, spatchcocking is a technique which involves removing the backbone and flattening the bird out. This allows the chicken to cook at a more even rate, meaning the legs will cook at roughly the same time as the breast. It also cooks faster than if kept whole due to the more even heat distribution. And finally my favorite reason, crispy skin! The fat is able to render out much better this way, which results in more
skin getting more crisp. Now spoon some of that bright, healthy Green Sauce over top and you have one helluva meal! I wanted to really showcase Spring in this recipe so I served the chicken with peas, as this is when they are in season. But I actually prefer the frozen kind because they are packed at the height of their freshness, consistently sweet and quite frankly, much more convenient than shelling your own. I guess just using peas, whether frozen or not, is enough validation that Spring is finally here. Till next year Jack! Stay safe, eat well!
GRILLED SPATCHCOCK CHICKEN WITH GREEN SAUCE, FARRO AND PEAS Serves 4
Ingredients:
Chicken: 1 - 4lb. Whole Chicken, *spatchocked 2 tsp. Salt EVOO
*Place the chicken on a cutting board, breast-side down with the legs facing towards you. Dry with paper towels. Using kitchen shears, cut along one side of the back bone staying as close to the spine as possible. Cut along the other side of the spine and remove, reserving for stock. Flip the chicken so the breasts face up. Using your palms, press down on the bird to flatten it out. If time allows, place the flattened chicken on a wire rack on a pan. Season all sides with salt and place in fridge skin-side up overnight.
BOB MCCORMICK
Car Crashes into Wallkill Home
Wallkill, NY - On February 13th at 7:37 P.M., Cronomer Valley firefighters were dispatched to 503 Route 32 for reports of a vehicle rollover. On arrival units found a car into a house. The male driver was conscious and quickly removed from the vehicle. He was then transported to Montefiore/St. Luke's Hospital by Mobile Life ALS. The caller who reported the accident stated that the driver may have been intoxicated.
Green Sauce: 4 Cups of Mixed Fresh Herbs such as Parsley, Mint, Cilantro, Marjoram, Basil 1 Garlic Clove Juice of 1 Lemon 1 Cup Plain Greek Yogurt 1 Tbs. Capers Pinch of Chili Flakes, to taste 1 Tbs. Salt ½ Cup EVOO Farro: 2 Cups Pearled Farro, *pearled farro cooks faster than whole 2 Cups Frozen Peas ½ Onion, chopped 6 Cups of Water or Chicken Broth
EVOO Salt, to taste Juice of 1 Lemon Optional: Crumbled Goat Cheese and Chopped Pistachios Procedure: Chicken:
-Turn on grill to medium, leaving the center burner(s) off. While the grill preheats for 15 minutes, take the chicken out of fridge and rub skin with EVOO.
-Place the flattened chicken skin-side down on the middle of the grill. There should be no fire directly under the chicken. -Grill for 20-30 minutes, flip to skin side up and cook for another 20-30 minutes or until the internal temp on the thigh is 165° F. Green Sauce:
-While the chicken cooks,
place all the Green Sauce ingredients except the EVOO in a blender or food processor. Buzz the ingredients until smooth and with the motor running drizzle in the EVOO. Taste and adjust seasoning, set aside. Can be done a day in advance. AJ FUSCO
Farro with Peas:
-In a large saucepan, heat a drizzle of EVOO over low heat. Add the chopped onions and a pinch of salt. Sweat the onions until translucent without browning. Add water or chicken broth and bring to boil. Add a generous pinch of salt and the farro. Cook according to package. When the farro is almost done, add the peas. -After the farro and peas are drained well, add back to the saucepan with lemon juice and drizzle in some more EVOO. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve at room temperature with crumbled goat cheese and pistachio.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
March, 2020
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
THOMAS MARRA
Bethlehem Dispatcher Retires with Over 30 Years of Service Delmar, NY - First Responders in the Town of Bethlehem gathered at the Bethlehem Police Station for Dispatcher Brian Sleurs after he entered his retirement from the dispatch center on January 30th. Members of police, fire, EMS and dispatch, as well as friends and family, were there to wish Sleurs, who is also a firefighter with the Delmar FD, a happy retirement after serving for over 30 years. Sleurs went down the line of those who gathered to shake hands with almost everyone that came for his farewell. Many will come to miss his calm voice on the other end of the phone and radio. Enjoy your retirement from dispatch, Brian! (Pictured is Brian with his wife and daughters.)
ABELL
Speed and Slippery Roads Don’t Mix in Kirkwood Kirkwood, NY - Five Mile Point Fire was dispatched to I81 South at mile marker 10 for a car versus box truck MVA with injuries on February 7th. Chief 59A, Squad 59 and Utility 59 responded. When 59A arrived on scene he found a vehicle had hit into the rear of a box truck that was parked on the side of the road. Out-oftown fire personnel who happened
JUMP TO FILE #021620104 to be driving by stopped to assist. Squad 59 and U59 arrived and checked for injuries and fire hazards. The passenger of the car complained of a facial injury. He was evaluated by Superior Ambulance, but was not transported. The car received heavy dam-
age, but the box truck was not damaged. Upon speaking with the driver of the car, this was his second accident of the day. To improve the safety of the scene and decrease on scene time, crews separated the vehicles and pushed the car onto the shoulder of the road. NYSP and NYSDOT assisted at the scene. - DAVID ABELL
IN SERVICE If you have photos you would like to see in our In Service feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
GUY ZAMPATORI JR
Car Versus Building in Rochester
Rochester, NY - Rochester firefighters responded for a vehicle into a building at the intersection of Dewey Avenue and W. Ridge Road on February 17th. There was no entrapment, but one person was taken to a local hospital.
ALAN HOFFMAN
This 2019 Freightliner/KME 3000-gallon tanker is in service with the South Wales Fire District in Erie County, NY.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
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Three Alarms Called at City of Newburgh House Fire Newburgh, NY - City of Newburgh Firefighters responded shortly after 2:00 P.M. on February 20th to 69 Townsend Avenue for reports of JUMP TO FILE# smoke showing 022120111 from a residence. On arrival firefighters confirmed smoke showing and a second-alarm was requested, which was followed shortly after by a third-alarm. Mutual Aid that responded to the scene included West Point, Air National Guard, New Windsor, Goodwill and Cronomer Valley Fire Departments. Orange County Deputy Fire Coordinators 36-4, 36-14 were also at the scene. Orange Lake Engine Co. and Coldenham Fire Departments were on stand by. City of Newburgh Police blocked off South Street while the incident was in progress. - BOB MCCORMICK
BOB MCCORMICK
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
FRANCO
NBCUNIVERSAL
The Museum’s new, mini-pop-up exhibit. The Hero’s Tale…Artifacts from the NBCUniversal drama Chicago Fire, opened to the public on January 16, 2020. This is a temporary exhibit, so don’t miss it!
Chicago Fire Excitement at the FASNY Museum! Hudson, NY - The FASNY Museum of Firefighting Board and Staff were very excited to host the opening of a new, mini-pop-up exhibit. This exhibit: The Hero’s Tale…Artifacts from the NBCUniversal drama Chicago Fire, is the culmination of many months of efforts to secure a loan of artifacts from NBCUniversal. For those of you not familiar with Chicago Fire, it is a drama presented by renowned Emmy Award-winning executive producer Dick Wolf (“Law and Order” brand) and co-creator Dereck Hass, the writer behind “3:10 to Yuma.” This high-octane drama gives you an edge-of-yourseat view into the lives of everyday heroes committed to one of America’s noblest professions: firefighting. The Museum staff has been actively pursuing objects related to firefighting and popular culture. Museum Educator Shaun Heller was fortunate to make a connection with Steve Chikerotis, who besides playing the role of Chief Walker, and being a retired Chicago Fire Department Battalion Chief, is also the subject matter fire expert for this drama. He graciously made an introduction to the NBC archivist, Rachel B. Parham, for the Museum Staff. The opening of this exhibit was by invitation only, but the exhibit will be open to the general public, with their Museum admission, beginning on January 16,
JUMP TO FILE #021920107 2020. These objects will be on loan until the end of 2020, but don’t wait to come see this exhibit, or you might miss it! We hope that this will be the first of an ongoing, rotating schedule of exhibits featuring popular culture objects at the FASNY Museum of Firefighting. The Museum Staff and Board are looking forward to an exciting new year at the Museum, beginning with this exhibit. Visit us and see how the Museum has advanced to better serve all of its constituents, including New York State’s bravest! The FASNY Museum of Firefighting is America’s interactive museum of firefighting! Activities for families include creative play on selected fire engines, hands-on interactives, including the popular bucket brigade activity, a virtual fire engine driving activity, the new Jr. Firefighter Challenge and the Cabot/McCadam Discovery Room. With over 60 pieces of apparatus on exhibit, whether you’re a firefighter, a student of history or a family looking for a fun and educational day trip, you will not want to miss this unique Museum! To learn more, visit the Museum website at: fasnyfiremuseum.com - JAMIE SMITH QUINN,
Executive Director-FASNY Museum
SUV Versus Tree with Heavy Entrapment in Endicott Endicott, NY - Endicott FD Platoon 2 responded to a motor vehicle accident at the corner of Oak Hill Avenue and Watson Blvd. on January 25th. Crews, under the direction of Captain Higgins, found a vehicle that had hit a tree. The driver was injured and trapped in the driver’s seat. Crews went to work using the hydraulic “jaws of life” cutters and spreaders to work on freeing the
JUMP TO FILE #021620102 victim. Needing more manpower and equipment, EFD off duty personnel and West Corners Fire 29 were summoned. Crews worked together to clear the driver and remove the roof of the vehicle to safely get the patient to the await-
ing stretcher. Union Volunteer Emergency Squad, Inc. treated the patient throughout the extrication and transported him to the hospital with multiple injuries. Endicott Police Department, Broome County Sheriff's Office and NYSP were also on scene. The investigation is continuing by EPD. - DAVID ABELL
FRANCO
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
The First Link in the Chain is 911 EMS ISSUE
CHELLE CORDERO
There are many layers to First Response in Emergency Services. EMS professionals, firefighters, police AND 911-operators work together to make the system work for the safety of our communities. While each title may hold different responsibilities, each one is an integral part of our first response system. From the 911 call to dispatch and an appropriate and timely response of the ambulance, fire truck or police, our communities depend on us to be there. If we lose any one of these entities, our system suffers. In CPR classes, students are taught that the first vital link in the chain of survival is the activation of the emergency response system, calling 911. The first use of this 3-digit nationwide emergency number in 1968 became that important first step (currently nearly all of the United States has a form of a 911 system); many communities now have an E911 system which helps to pinpoint callers’ locations. Dispatchers do more than just answer phone lines, they will help to decipher the sometimes incoherent cries for help, they dispatch the appropriate resources and relay vital information to the responders, they’ve been able to talk callers through important lifesaving procedures until trained professionals show up, and they help to coordinate mixed-service responses. NYS 911-operators must go through 240-hours of classroom training and evaluations with lessons in psychology, public safety, disaster response, effective communication, and homeland security before being allowed to answer calls without supervision. In addition, all NYS dispatchers must complete at least 21-hours of in-service training each year. Originally referred to as clerical workers, 911-operators are fi-
nally gaining recognition as First Responders. A national drive (House Resolution 1629, 911 Saves Act) seeks to reclassify communications officers from a non-protective service occupation to a protective one in the Standard Occupational Classification system. Some states/municipalities nationwide have already instituted local provisions. The bill would give dispatchers access to PTSD and mental health resources, other training and would improve benefits. Emergency 911 dispatchers are subject to stress, PTSD, and the effects of long hours and shift work. Responding ambulances, fire services and law enforcement rely on clear communications and, where available, specialized technical skills. All public safety access points (PSAP), 911-call centers, are staffed 24-hours a day and seven days a week. Incoming calls must be answered within ten seconds of connection and the dispatch of the appropriate responding service must be timely. The 911-dispatch information is the lifeline to an emergency response, sometimes the information the dispatcher receives is accurate and sometimes a caller is too incoherent, the dispatcher is trained to stay on the line, (attempt to) calm the caller, and make sure that all necessary resources are made available as soon as possible. The NYS 911 Coordinators Association, NENA (NYS chapter of the National Emergency Number Association) represents 62 Counties of 911 professionals; the ultimate goal is to provide a safer and faster response for all emergency services. There are several levels of 911-operators, 911 Dispatcher Trainee, Emergency Services Dispatcher, Police Dispatcher, Tele-communicator, Senior Public Safety Dispatcher, Dispatch Coordinator, 911 Operations Coordinator in approximately 70 central dispatch centers in NYS handling literally millions of emergency calls per year for fire, EMS and police; in addition there are many local police agencies that use dispatchers to answer 911-calls. 911 is indeed a vital part of emergency response.
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March, 2020
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MEMORIAL BOARD
If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Memorial Board” feature please upload them on our website www.1RBN.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
The Nanuet Fire Engine Company #1 in Rockland County recently suffered the loss of two Life Members and Brother Firefighters.
BOB MCCORMICK
Four People Transported from Serious Two-Car MVA in Cornwall Cornwall, NY - Highland Engine Company FD was dispatched to a serious motor vehicle accident with entrapment at 1974 Route 32 in the area of Hemlock Hill Road on February 11th. EMS requested two Medevacs, but both were declined due to poor weather conditions. First responders arrived and confirmed entrapment. The occupants were extricated from the vehicles and a total of four people were transported to Montefiore/St. Luke's Hospital by Cornwall and New Windsor EMS. Town of Cornwall Police blocked off Route 32 during their accident investigation.
Patrick “Ricky” Duffy, a 50-year Life Member, passed away on January 19, 2020. Patrick, or Ricky as his family affectionately called him, served the communities of Nanuet and Bardonia for more than 50 years as a member of the Nanuet Fire Department. He proudly served his country during the Vietnam War and came home to begin a long time career with the the New York State Thruway Authority. Wake and Firematic services were held on Thursday, January 23rd at Higgins Funeral Home in New City. The funeral was held at St. Anthony’s Church in Nanuet on Friday, January 24th.
Paul T. Demoa, a 67-year Life Member, passed away on January 17, 2020. Paul was the most senior member of the Nanuet department. He was a lifelong member of Nanuet and a veteran of the Korean War. Paul was a skilled mason working throughout Rockland County and an usher at St. Anthony’s Church. A wake for Demoa was held on January 24th and funeral services followed at St. Anthony’s Church on January 25th.
Life Member Patrick "Ricky" Duffy
DUFFY FAMILY
Nanuet’s oldest vehicle in their fleet, the 8-750, was used for the sacred duty of carrying these honored firefighters to their eternal rest. She rode the streets of Nanuet on January 24th to signal the final call for Patrick Duffy; and on January 25th was used again to signal the final call for Paul Demoa.
Condolences to the Nanuet Fire Engine Company #1. GUY ZAMPATORI JR
Two-Alarm Fire Damages Home in Rochester Rochester, NY - Rochester Firefighters responded to Hudson Avenue on February 7th for reports of a house on fire. Engine 16 arrived and found fire showing from the 'Bravo' side, first and second floors of a large two-story house. They made a quick knock down of the fire, and it was placed under control within about 20 minutes.
May they rest in peace.
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Life Member Paul T. Demoa
NANUET FIRE
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
March, 2020
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NY State Fire Announces Effort to Protect Firefighters and Families from Cancer Threat The New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services’ Office of Fire Prevention and Control today announced a new effort to help protect the state’s firefighters and their families from the threat of cancer. Studies have shown firefighters are experiencing cancer at higher rates than the general public, largely due to their exposure to an increased level of toxins found in smoke at structure and other fires. In order to ensure New York’s firefighters are not only aware of this threat, but know how to limit their own risk, State Fire officials developed basic protocols for decontaminating firefighting gear following a response call and will be traveling throughout the state to promote their use by firefighters. Research has shown that the simple and inexpensive steps being promoted as part of this effort can reduce the exposure of firefighters and their families to toxins and other carcinogens by up to 85 percent. As research continues to demonstrate the elevated risk of cancer the brave men and women of New York’s fire service face, it’s critical we ensure they have the tools and information they need to protect themselves and their families,” New York State Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Patrick A. Murphy said. “Thanks to the tireless efforts our dedicated staff in the Office of Fire Prevention and Control, we haven’t only found simple ways to greatly reduces one’s exposure to carcinogens, we are bringing this information directly to our local partners throughout the state.” “State Fire is taking the lead in New York to help firefighters make the changes necessary for protecting their health,” said New York State Fire Administrator Francis Nerney. “Smoke from every fire contains toxic chemicals linked to cancer and by taking basic steps to educate our brothers and sisters in the fire service, we can begin to change the culture and get the safe behaviors we are promoting into action.” If firefighting turnout gear is not decontaminated properly after a fire, these firefighters can carry the harmful chemicals to their firehouses and homes, cross-contaminating co-workers and family members. According to two studies conducted by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, firefighters are being diagnosed with cancer at a nine percent higher rate than the general public, and are experiencing
JUMP TO FILE #022020101 cancer-related deaths at a 14 percent higher rate. To combat these trends, the State Office of Fire Prevention and Control has established some basic, inexpensive protocols which will go a long way in limiting firefighters’ exposure to the harmful chemicals commonly found in smoke. Under these recommended protocols: -Firefighters are rinsed off with a garden hose at low pressures to remove large contaminates upon completion of their work at the scene -They are then sprayed with a liquid dish soap and water solution and scrubbed with soft bristled brushes -The Firefighter is rinsed again with the low-pressure garden hose and then washes their helmet -Finally, the gear is bagged for transport to prevent contamination from spreading and subsequently washed following their individual department’s policy Throughout the next year, state experts will travel across the state to bring these protocols directly to firefighters in educational sessions at local fire departments. At each session, firefighters will view a live demonstration of the new decontamination protocols, a new educational video that details the protocols and the risks facing firefighters and have an opportunity to ask state experts any questions they may have. Additionally, the State Office of Fire Prevention and Control is expanding all firefighting classes and trainings it delivers by now including a section on cancer awareness and prevention education. New sessions are being scheduled on a rolling basis. If you are a firefighter and looking for an educational session near you, or would like to host one at your department, view the State Office of Fire Prevention and Control’s training calendar, or contact your County’s Fire Coordinator. New York State Association of Fire Chiefs Director Timothy Boel said, “We can decrease the exposure to the dangers we face if we want too. Decontamination is such an easy task to accomplish why would you want to expose yourself, other personnel or your family to the dangers we face in our job to protect others. Take the time, energy and effort to make the job you enjoy and have chosen to do the safest it can be.” - CHET LASELL
DHSES
ALL IN THE FAMILY If you have photos you would like to see in our “All In The Family” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
PROVIDED
1st Assistant Chief Gary Roberts of the South Schodack Fire Department, with his 2 Firefighter sons Noah & Seth, both home from college on their winter break, at a recent MVA on Route 9 in the Town of Schodack on December 17, 2019. Pictured (L to R): Noah Roberts, Gary Roberts, and Seth Roberts.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
March, 2020
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Union Historical Fire Society Annual Allentown Spring Melt Marketplace to be Held April 18 & 19, 2020
Assistant Chief Arthur Lounsbury of the Delmar FD at the house fire, 1/23/20.
THOMAS MARRA
Garbage Can Fire Spreads to Delmar Home Delmar, NY - A garbage can fire spread to a home in Delmar on Thursday, January 23rd. Delmar, Elsmere and Slingerlands Fire Departments, as well as the FAST Team and Delmar-Bethlehem EMS were called to 202 Adams Street in Delmar at 12:15 P.M. for smoke and flames reportedly coming from the basement of the home. According to Assistant Chief Arthur Lounsbury of the Delmar Fire Department, he arrived at the scene and found active fire in a corner of the home near the front.
JUMP TO FILE #022120102 Lounsbury said bystanders knocked down some of the fire with a fire extinguisher prior to the arrival of fire crews. There was heavy smoke in the basement and the first floor of the home. Lounsbury said the damage was contained to the basement and some minor damage to the first floor of the home in the area of the fire. It took approximately less than
10 minutes to completely knock down the flames. According to Lounsbury, the fire is believed to have started inside the garbage cans, which were against the side of the home when the fire started. It's unclear at this time what was inside the garbage can that may have sparked the fire. The homeowners were not home at the time of the fire and there were no pets reported to be inside. There were no injuries reported on the scene. - THOMAS MARRA
GARY HEARN
First-Alarm House Fire in Salisbury Mills
Salisbury Mills, NY - At 6:57 A.M. on February 3rd, the Washingtonville FD was alerted on an automatic response (1st alarm assignment) to the Salisbury Mills FD for a report of a structure fire on State Rt. 94, opposite Loughrans. Truck 579 responded. Upon arrival the crew was split to conduct search then "open up", place portable ladders and operate a second handline.
Allentown, PA - Get ready for the annual “Spring Melt” Fire Antique Memorabilia and Marketplace and the 32nd Annual Firematic Antique Auction. The auction will be held on Saturday, April 18th with the marketplace to follow on Sunday, April 19th at the Agri-Plex at Allentown, PA Fairgrounds. Auctioneer Donn Zalewski has lined up another exceptional auction this year. Premier collectors/authors James and Sandra Piatti have contributed some outstanding items to the auction this year. You can view many of the items included on the auction website. Visit www.donnandassociates.com. NEW THIS YEAR IS A FRIDAY PREVIEW TIME from 12pm to 3pm on April 17th and a NEW AUCTION START TIME OF 8am on the 19th, preview from 7am to 8am. You can contact Donn directly by phone: 216-7804821 or email: donnDRZ22@aol.com with any questions or to inquire about adding items to the auction. On Sunday, April 19th at 9am, the doors open to the largest fire antique and memorabilia marketplace in the United States. Attendees come from all over the country, Canada, the U.K and
JUMP TO FILE #020420105 France, as well as from Pennsylvania and the surrounding states. Anything fire department related can be found gathered in one place at this show. There is something for everyone, including new and used apparatus on display. Admission is a contribution to the Union Historical Fire Society of $5.00 to the Auction and $10.00 to the Marketplace. Children under 12 admitted free. Refreshments are available all weekend and parking is free. Because this is an indoor show, the weather is never a problem. Vendors are always welcome. Keep in mind the show is limited to fire related items ONLY. If you are interested in becoming a vendor, visit our website at www.unionhistoricalfiresociety.co m or contact Tom & Cheryl D’Arcangelo at 631-348-3787 or email darcantq@gmail.com with your questions. The UHFS assures you there will be a great selection of vendors and merchandise this year. Mark your calendar and we hope to see you in April. - CHERYL D’ARCANGELO
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Raging Garage Fire Extends to Home in Brunswick Brunswick, NY - On Friday, February 20th at 8:54 A.M., the Center Brunswick Volunteer Fire Co. along with Brunswick No.1 Fire Co., Mountain View, Speigletown, Pittstown, Eagle Mills, Melrose, and the Raymertown Fire Department responded to 552 N. Lake Ave. for a reported vehicle fire inside of a garage. The dispatcher notified the responding chief that they were getting multiple calls that the garage was now heavily involved and spreading to the house. Rensselaer County Car 6 notified the dispatcher that he had a large column of black smoke showing from Route 7 and to notify the responding units that they have a working fire. The first arriving Rensselaer County Sheriff's unit on scene confirmed a heavily involved structure fire. The deputy along with the state police made sure that everyone was out of the house. Police on scene reported numerous large explosions occurring. An ATF explosives ordinance technician that was traveling in the area at the time heard several large explosions and noticed the column of smoke and headed to the scene to investigate. Brunswick No.1 Car 1 arrived on scene, called the Signal 30 and stated that he was establishing North Lake Avenue Command. The first arriving engine had four firefighters on board. The ATF agent assisted firefighters by pulling a hand line from the rig while firefighters pulled a twoand-a-half inch hand line to the side of the building. The ATF agent assisted the firefighters on scene with fire suppression efforts until additional units arrived. As crews were attempting to knock down the heavy fire in the garage area the fire rapidly spread to the house, into the kitchen and living room areas. Center Brunswick Car 1 arrived on scene
JUMP TO FILE #022420118 and took command. As units from Center Brunswick, Mountain View, Eagle Mills, Speigletown, Pittstown, Melrose and Raymertown arrived on scene for additional manpower, firefighters began conducting an aggressive push to knock down the heavy fire. Crews on scene had to use caution, as the power lines that were attached to the house came down in the driveway. National Grid arrived on scene and shut down the power. As firefighters were knocking down the fire in the front of the structure, the rear of the building was heavily involved and there was heavy flame impingement on two propane tanks attached to a grill. The heavy flame impingement caused the propane tanks to violently vent into the air. Firefighters used a two-and-a-half inch hand line to quickly cool the propane tanks. Firefighters pulled a hand line into the front door of the house and began to knock down the heavy fire condition in the kitchen and living room. Within the first 25 minutes over 30 firefighters arrived on scene and had the heavily involved house fire knocked down and under control. Firefighters went to the roof of the building and cut a hole to make sure fire did not get in. Crews conducted heavy overhaul on scene for over one hour. The house was a total loss. All occupants and animals in the house were able to escape with no injuries. No firefighters were injured on scene and Fire Investigators are working to determine the cause of the car fire that caught the house on fire. - JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER
JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER/SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY
JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER/SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY
JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER/SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
March, 2020
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Crews Make Quick Work of Heuvelton Structure Fire Heuvelton, NY - At approximately 4:19 P.M. on February 19th, the Morristown, Gouverneur and Heuvelton Fire Departments were dispatched to a reported structure fire JUMP TO FILE# at 266 State Highway 022720101 184 in the town of Macomb. Morristown Fire Chief Jay Moore checked on scene at 4:29 P.M. and transmitted a working structure fire. Morristown Engine 34 arrived at 4:32 P.M. and stretched (two) oneand-three-quarter inch attack lines to the residence. The fire was quickly knocked down and crews began overhaul operations. There was moderate fire damage to two walls in the living room, and minor water damage. Morristown Fire Chief stated "the fire crews did a great job knocking the fire down quickly and saved the residence." No one was home at the time of the fire and three dogs were removed unharmed. Morristown Fire was assisted on scene by the Heuvelton and Gouverneur FDs, Morristown Auxiliary, National Grid and NYS DOT. No injuries were reported and fire crews were back in service at 6:39 P.M. - KEVIN CROSBY
Firefighters expose hot spots.
KEVIN J. CROSBY
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
Cause of Washingtonville House Fire Deemed Accidental Washingtonville, NY - At 4:14 P.M. on February 16th, the Washingtonville FD received a report for a house fire on Moffat Road, off of Route 208. Firefighters arrived at the scene within three minutes from the receipt of the alarm and found fire on JUMP TO FILE# the first floor of the 021720119 house. Firefighters forced entry into the house, which was unoccupied at the time, conducted searches and contained the fire to the room of origin. The Salisbury Mills FD stood-by in Washingtonville FD's firehouse. The Town of Blooming Grove PD and Building Inspector were at the scene. Due to the sub-freezing temperature, upon completion of fire department operations the Town of Blooming Grove Highway Department sanded the road. There were no injuries and the cause of the fire was deemed accidental. - GARY HEARN
GARY HEARN
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
March, 2020
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RICHARD BILLINGS
March, 2020
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
LARRY KENSINGER / NC NEWS SERVICE
Fatal Snow Plow Versus Pedestrain in Lockport Lockport, NY - On February 4th, the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office Communications Center received multiple 911 calls reporting that a pedestrian was struck by a motor vehicle in front of 6491 Dysinger Road in the Town of Lockport. A preliminary investigation showed that a vehicle was traveling westbound on Dysinger Road when a pedestrian crossed Dysinger Road in front of the vehicle. The vehicle then struck the pedestrian. Deputies and medical personnel provided immediate first aid,
JUMP TO FILE #020620147 but the pedestrian was pronounced deceased at the scene. The pedestrian was identified as Frederick Bishop of Dysinger Road from the Town of Lockport. The driver was identified as Matthew Steinman of the Town of Lockport. An investigation is to continue by the Niagara County Accident Investigation Unit. - LARRY KENSINGER
WORKING FACES If you have photos you would like to see in our Working Faces feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
VINNIE DOMINICK
Josh Pinter, with his girlfriend Paige next to him, was recently named "Man of the Year" at Winona Lake Engine Co.'s annual installation dinner.
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New York’s Rescues VIDEO REVIEW
Video reviews by John Malecky
New York’s Rescues 5 DVD Set By Advanced Print & Video Available from: FSP Books & Videos 188 Central Street, Suite #4 Hudson,, MA 01749-1330 1-800-522-8528 e-mail: fire-police-ems.com www.fire-police-ems.com Price: $69.95
This five DVD set is sold for the above price and is activity recorded for all five of New York City Fire Department’s rescue companies. Each company has its own DVD. All are 60 minutes with the exception of Rescue 5, which is 45 minutes. We will be presenting each DVD separately for this first review of Rescue 1 and the next four. For the review of Rescue 1, the coverage starts off in late 1997 and
1998. There is brief narration, however radio traffic can be heard so the viewer has a better idea of what is going on. It starts off with clips of various incidents in which the company operated with “Rescue Me” sung in the background by Fontella Bass. This goes on for a few minutes followed by a brief talk by a firefighter who has about 16 years in the department and has been assigned to Rescue 1 for the past six months. He describes the many types of calls the rescue company trains for and answers, and the many different types of diversions that make up the city. All of the action is in Manhattan where the unit is stationed. There is a fifth-alarm, a third-alarm and an all-hands, as well as horrendous accidents, a building collapse just before New Year’s Eve of 1997 (near where the ball would drop), and some training thrown in. The coverage is action packed but there is also some firehouse life scenes, such as preparing for a meal. I feel it is a good representation of the company and its pride all feeding to the interest of the viewer, especially if he or she is a fire buff with interest in the FDNY.
THOMAS MARRA
Icy Roads Lead to Head-On Crash in New Baltimore New Baltimore, NY - Icy roads following a winter storm led to a head-on crash in New Baltimore on Saturday, February 8th. The New Baltimore Fire Department responded to the area of 1018 Deans Mill Road for a head-on crash just before 11:30 A.M. There was no entrapment and only minor injuries.
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NEWS
MARCH, 2020
FIRE RAGES THROUGH MASTIC BEACH HOUSE, KILLING FAMILY DOG
JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS
Mastic Beach, NY - Saturday, February 22nd was a busy day for the Mastic Beach FD. Just a few hours after responding to an involved auto, the Mastic Beach FD was activated for a report of a structure fire on Beaver Drive, between Chestnut and Dell, at about 5:49 P.M.
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LONG ISLAND
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CORPORATE INFORMATION 1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New York edition - Vol. 21 No.2 - is published monthly, 12 times a year for $36 per year by Belsito Communications, Inc., 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. Periodicals Postage Paid at Newburgh, NY and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. No financial responsibility is assumed by this newspaper to publish a display, classified, or legal ad or for t y p o graphical errors except of reprinting that part of the ad which was omitted or in error. Omissions or errors must be brought to the attention of the newspaper during the same month of publication. Printed in Canada.
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JOHN WALTHERS - SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS
FRANK ROBINSON
Greenport Fire Department Celebrates 175 Years Greenport, NY - The 175th Anniversary of the Greenport Fire Department was held on February 15th, with a great turnout and great weather. Fire Departments from all over Nassau and Suffolk Counties participated, as well as departments from as far away as Mystic, CT and West Glen Falls, NY.
Additional
Two-Car Crash Causes Heavy Sunday Morning Delays in Mastic Mastic, NY - On Sunday, February 9th just before 9:00 A.M., the Mastic Fire Department was activated for an MVA on the William Floyd Parkway northbound at McGraw Street. Chiefs Rudy Sunderman [5-12-30] and Gene Martucci [5-12-31] arrived on scene and found a two-car MVA at the intersection, with all occupants out of the vehicles. Chief Sunderman requested that Rescue 10 come into the scene and bring brooms and speedy dry to clean up heavy amounts of fluid and some debris on the ground. Fire Police 80 was directed by the chief to take out the right lane completely and conduct traffic control operations. Engine 3 also
JUMP TO FILE #021720104 responded in and assisted Rescue 10 with the clean up of the intersection. Mastic Beach Ambulance who were covering Mastic Ambulance District during the morning were also called into the scene and evaluated the drivers. Both drivers refused transport to the hospital and were released at the scene. McGraw Street was closed at the William Floyd parkway for a little over 30 minutes. - JOHN WALTHERS
MEMORIES
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SABELLA /ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY 2020
One-Car Crash Kills Driver in Yaphank Yaphank, NY - A driver died after striking the guardrail on the South Service Road at the William Floyd Parkway late Saturday night, February 15th. Yaphank FD and SCPD highway units arrived to find the male driver in cardiac arrest and a pit bull sitting next to him. SCPD units took the pit bull and placed it in a warm police unit. The driver was transported and pronounced deceased at the hospital.
CHUCK LOWE
Baldwin Hose 4 in Nassau County once ran with this 1956 Mack B 1000-GPM pumper. It carried 350-gallons of water with 40-gallons of class B foam. (Photo taken around 1990.)
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LONG ISLAND VEHICLE NEWS
JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS
Cutchogue FD recently took delivery of this 2018 Ford F550/Proliner Rescue, designated as unit 8-5-15.
JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS
Fire Rages Through Mastic Beach House, Killing Family Dog
JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS
The Bethpage FD recently took delivery of this Ford F350 First Responder truck, designated as unit 9066.
Mastic Beach, NY - Saturday, February 22nd was a busy day for the Mastic Beach FD. Just a few hours after responding to an involved auto, the Mastic Beach FD was activated for a report of a structure fire on Beaver Drive, between Chestnut and Dell, at about 5:49 P.M. Firecom advised Assistant Chief Fred [5-12-31] that the caller stated their house was on fire and a dog may still be inside. On arrival the chief found the front of the house well involved in heavy fire, and wires had also fallen in front of the home. The first due unit was Tanker 513-2, and on arrival they were ad-
JUMP TO FILE #022320105 vised to stop short of the house due to the wires down across the road. The crew quickly stretched a line to begin the fire attack. Engine 3, Ladder 1 and Rescue 4 arrived on scene shortly after. The crew from Ladder 1 assisted in stretching a second line from unit 2 and hitting the hydrant with a supply line to feed the tanker. Mastic FD sent one engine to the scene as RIT. Firefighters were able to knock down the fire. On primary searches it was confirmed that all occupants were out of the house. However, it was also confirmed on
the search that the family dog had sadly perished in the fire despite the best efforts of emergency personnel. Firefighters had an extended overhaul at the scene while Brookhaven FD stood by at Mastic Beach HQ and responded to additional alarms. Mastic Beach Ambulance supplied rehab support for the firefighters who were operating on scene. SCPD 7th Precinct officers and Mastic Beach FD fire police closed surrounding roads. PSEG was called in to cut the power. The scene was turned over to the fire marshal’s office. - JOHN WALTHERS
BOB VACCARO
The Patchogue FD recently took delivery of the first Pierce Ascendant mid-mount platform, designated Truck 6.
BOB VACCARO
The North Bellmore FD recently took delivery of a custom made technical rescue truck.
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
LONG ISLAND
Occupants Escape Morning Blaze in Farmingville Farmingville, NY - Just after 8:00 A.M. on Saturday, January 18th, Farmingville Fire Department was activated for a reported garage fire on Laurel Place. Smoke was pushing heavily out JUMP TO FILE# of the garage door 011820102 as chiefs pulled up. A 35 was activated and mutual aid was requested from Selden, Holtsville, Ronkonkoma and Centereach for a fully engulfed garage with a Harley and mini bike within. The fire was brought under control in about 30 minutes. The occupants of the home, including a dog, escaped the blaze without injury. - CHRIS SABELLA
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JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS
Mastic FD Probationary FF Bella Ortiz pulls in 2 firefighters during the department's recent cold water rescue drill.
Selden, NY - On Saturday night, February 15th, the driver of a pickup truck was traveling westbound on Middle Cty. Road when he struck a car in the intersection of North Evergreen. The pickup then struck another car before leaving the roadway and hitting 12 cars in the parking lot of Autoland car dealership, causing an estimated $150,000 in damages. The pickup finally came to a stop after flipping about 2,000-feet from the original accident. Both men in the pickup truck were transported by Selden ambulance while firefighters secured the mess. No other injuries were reported.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
March, 2020
SCENES FROM THE 2020 LONG ISLAND MEGA SHOW Photos by John Walthers/Suffolk Fire Photos
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
LONG ISLAND WORKING FACES If you have photos you would like to see in our “Working Faces” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
SABELLA/ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY 2020 JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS
Mastic Beach FD Lt. Artie Surrey on scene of a recent crash.
Quick Knockdown Saves Condo in Terryville
Terryville, NY - Terryville firefighters were activated for a reported structure fire at 87 Commodore Ct. on Monday evening, January 20th. The first arriving chief was met with heavy black smoke pumping from the common garage area of an attached condo. A quick attack kept the fire contained to one garage, with no further extension.
BUDDY SHOTS If you have photos you would like to see in our “Buddy Shots” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
Mastic FF Cody Rosato operates at a recent MVA.
JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS
JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS
Mastic Beach FD Lt. Kevin Wittman on scene of a recent MVA.
SABELLA /ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY 2020
Rocky Point Chiefs and Firefighters take a group pic together after working a MVA with overturn.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
March, 2020
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
FDNY PATCH OF THE MONTH
ALL IN THE FAMILY
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If you have photos you would like to see in our “All in the Family” feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
FDNY
It’s a family career! Meet Firefighter Robert Thomas and his sons, Firefighters Jason, Nathan and Stephen Thomas. Robert made the courageous decision to become one of New York’s Bravest nearly 38 years ago and he helped to pave the way for his sons and many others to join our heroic Department. CHUCK LOWE
FDNY Engine 65's classic patch shows their old green American LaFrance pumper and the twin towers.
MEMORIAL BOARD
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On Saturday, January 25th, FDNY members and loved ones gathered in the quarters of Engine 46 and Ladder 27 in the Bronx for a 15th anniversary memorial mass honoring Lt. John Bellew, Lt. Joseph DiBernardo, Lt. Curtis Meyran and Firefighter Richard T. Sclafani, all who made the Supreme Sacrifice as a result of two separate fires on January 23, 2005, a day that has come to be known within the Department as “Black Sunday.”
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March, 2020
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FDNY These Heroes Are Not Sandwiches Chaplain’s Corner Pastor Fernando Villicana
In the fire service we are loaded with priorities and important choices. One of the issues of Time Magazine offered a list of 20 people they considered to be heroes of the last 100 years. Some of those names I recognized and possibly agree could be considered heroes, names like Billy Graham, Anne Frank, Helen Keller, Mother Teresa, and the American G.I.. Still others listed I question their being called heroes; Marilyn Monroe, Bruce Lee, or the Kennedys. I guess it would depend upon your definition of the word “hero”. Still others were names that I didn’t recognize and had to look them up to see what they were known for. Names like Emmeline Pankhurst, Bill Wilson, or Harvey Milk. If I were to ask you who your heroes were, what names would you give me? Would I recognize any of those names? How do you define the word hero? I have my own definition, but I had to look up the word in a dictionary just to see how “they” define what a “hero” is. Of course, just as each of us may have different ideas or definitions, the dictionaries I looked in had different definitions. Webster’s dictionary says that a hero is “a man of distinguished valour or intrepidity”. Then, of course, I had to look up “intrepidity”. It means, “fearless bravery in danger”, “undaunted courage”. Good definitions, I think. Then, in Cody’s Merriam-Webster dictionary, a hero is, “one that is much admired or shows great courage”. Finally, in my Random House college dictionary a hero is defined as,
“a man regarded as having heroic qualities and is considered a model or ideal” and “a small loaf of Italian bread”. It is interesting to me how our definitions of hero have been modified over the past half century. We have gone from “fearless bravery in danger” to “one that is much admired” and “a small loaf of Italian bread”. For some reason, we had been putting the “hero” label on people who could play sports, sing songs or act on TV or in the movies. But who are your heroes? *True heroes aren’t the ones rushing for touchdowns, they are the men and women who are rushing to the scene of a burning building, or a traffic collision – willing to risk their own lives to save the life of someone else. *True heroes are not recognized because they wear baseball uniforms, they are recognized as the men and women in Fire, Police and EMT uniforms. They are the ones who are wearing the uniforms of our various branches of the military. *True heroes aren’t the people who take center stage at a concert, they are the ones taking classes in their spare time so that they are trained to the best of their ability when they come to your aid. *True heroes aren’t the ones wearing gold medals on their chests, true heroes are the ones with the badges on their uniforms. *True heroes aren’t the modern day pop stars driving around in their big limousines, they are the officers driving around in emergency vehicles that promise to “protect and serve.” True heroes are those who serve the citizens of the city that they work for and place themselves in harms way each and every day. These Heroes Are No Sandwiches.
APPARATUS IN ACTION
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FDNY rigs that operated at a five-alarm blaze in Staten Island, January 20, 2020.
STEVE WHITE
STEVE WHITE
Submitting photos and press releases is EASY! Register at www.1rbn.com to begin posting directly. Prefer emails? Email your press release and photos directly to Lindsey@1strespondernews.com STEVE WHITE
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NY