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NOVEMBER, 2020
ROCHESTER HOUSE FIRE DEEMED SUSPICIOUS
GUY ZAMPATORI JR
Rochester, NY - Rochester Firefighters arrived to Avenue A around 4:15 A.M. on Tuesday morning, September 22nd, to find all three levels of a home in flames. Crews needed to wait for the attic to collapse before they could effectively begin knocking down the flames.
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November, 2020
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER/SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY BOB MCCORMICK
BOB MCCORMICK
Departments Respond to Fatal Fire in New Windsor
New Windsor, NY – One person was killed when a fire broke out at 111 Cedar Avenue in the Ducktown section of New Windsor late on the morning of September 21st. The call came in around 11:00 A.M., and City of Newburgh, Vails Gate and Cornwall Fire Departments responded to the scene. Fire officials have indicated that the fire began on the front porch of the house and rapidly extended to the second floor of the structure. The fire is under investigation by the New Windsor Police Department.
Eighth Street Blaze Quickly Knocked Down by Watervliet Firefighters Watervliet, NY - On October 3rd at 12:41 P.M., the City of Watervliet’s Fire Department along with the Watervliet Arsenal, Green Island Fire Department and the City of JUMP TO FILE# Troy’s Fire Depart- 100920102 ment was dispatched to 1511 8th Street for multiple calls reporting a structure fire. A heavy black column of smoke was showing from the distance as firefighters turned down onto Eighth Street, along with heavy fire blowing out of the three front windows of the second-story portion of a house. The first arriving engine immediately declared the Signal 30 for a working structure fire. Firefighters made sure everyone was out of the house and began to deploy a single hand line to the second floor. As crews made their way up the staircase to the second floor they were met with heavy fire rolling over the top of their heads and heavy black smoke pushing down the stairwell. Firefighters immediately called for the hand line to be charged. Firefighters in the stairwell began to make a push into the heavily involved second floor apartment and as they began to knock down the heavy fire load, firefighters from the Watervliet Arsenal began to set up their truck company and start to vent through windows on the side of the house. As additional firefighters arrived on scene another hand line was brought up to the second floor to assist with the initial crews inside of the building. Firefighters from the truck company made their way to the
roof and started to vent the back side, as they still had fire traveling the area of the cockloft. Firefighters on the second floor were able to successfully knock down all of the heavy fire within 15 minutes of arrival. Crews conducted a secondary search of the house and confirmed that all of the residents and pets made it out safely. Firefighters remained on scene for over an hour
conducting heavy overhaul of the badly damaged home. Due to the quick work of the firefighters on scene, damage to the rest of the home was held to a minimum. The Red Cross was brought in to assist the residents of the home. The fire is currently under investigation. No firefighters were injured on scene.
JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER/SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY
- JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
November, 2020
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November, 2020
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
ADVERTISER INDEX Company Campbell Supply Co.
Page 1,36
Churchville Fire Equip
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Fire Districts of NY
5
Firehouse Apparatus
17
Garrison Fire Rescue
19
Jerome Fire Equipment
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Kimtek Corp.
21
Kochek
25
LaFrance Equipment
19
Long Island Mega Show Mid Atlantic Rescue
3 23
North Eastern Rescue
9
River Valley Radio
15
Specialty Vehicles
11
Team Equipment, Inc.
13
VCI
26
THOMAS MARRA
A flag burning ceremony was held with the help of the Elsmere Fire Department to retire torn and tattered flags.
JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER/SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY
Flag Burning Ceremony Held Early Morning Fire Quickly Brought Under Control by in Elsmere Elsmere, NY - A flag burning ceremony was held at the Bethlehem Fire Training Tower on Tuesday, September 15th, to retire old and torn flags for proper disposal. Steve Riedel of American Legion Post #1040 in Delmar, who has been leading this event for eight years, estimates that there were approximately 800 flags retired at the ceremony this year, which he says is down from last year's numbers. "Once American Flags get ripped, tattered and faded they're supposed to be completely destroyed by burning," Riedel said. The burning of the flags takes place with a ceremony to ensure the process is done by paying respect. He says the ceremony begins with an inspection to make sure the flags are unfit for flying or for dis-
JUMP TO FILE #092620102 play. The flag is passed around with the chaplain saying a prayer before one flag is ceremoniously thrown into the fire, followed by the remainder of the flags being thrown in with the assistance of the Elsmere Fire Department. "Nothing irks a veteran more than seeing a shredded flag flying on a flag pole," Riedel said. Riedel says if someone is unsure of what to do with an old flag, they can always bring it into an American Legion, or even the Town Library or Town Hall. - THOMAS MARRA
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.
Troy Firefighters Troy, NY - On Monday, September 28th at 12:56 A.M., the City of Troy’s Fire Department was dispatched to the intersection of Fifth Avenue and 109th Street after a caller reported that the house near the intersection was on fire. Engine 1 and Truck 1 quickly arrived on scene and had a heavy smoke condition from the second floor of the building and in the eaves and declared the Signal 30 for a working structure fire. Firefighters immediately stretched a hand line right to the second floor while firefighters from the truck company made their way to the roof to begin to vent the building. Firefighters inside of the building conducted a primary search and made sure everyone was out of the house safely. Engine 4 arrived on scene, connected into the hydrant and stretched their LDH to Engine 1 to supply them with water. Com-
JUMP TO FILE #100920103 mand notified the dispatcher that they now had fire showing from the exterior of the structure from the second floor. Firefighters on the second floor quickly knocked down the heavy fire condition and brought the incident under control. Firefighters on the roof conducted vertical ventilation and vented the cockloft area. Firefighters on the second floor conducted heavy overhaul of the fire room for a short period of time. The fire was brought under control in less than five minutes. No firefighters were injured on scene and everyone made it out of the house safely. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. - JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER
CORPORATE INFORMATION
1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New York edition - Vol. 21 No. 11 - 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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FRANK ROBINSON
Washingtonville Fire Department operates a 2018 Ferrara 1000/2700 Pumper Tanker.
JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER/SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
November, 2020
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November, 2020
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In memory of those who gave all
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
1st Responder Newspaper honors and remembers emergency responders lost in the line of duty
Texas: Leroy Lucio, 62 Rank: Captain Incident Date: June 17, 2020 Death Date: July 20, 2020 Fire Department: Houston Fire Department Initial Summary: On July 20, 2020, Captain Leroy Lucio was battling the COVID-19 virus at a local hospital in San Antonio, TX, when he passed away. Captain Lucio contracted the virus from exposure to COVID-19 in the workplace.
Texas: Gerardo "Jerry" Pacheco, 50 Rank: Firefighter/Paramedic Incident Date: July 18, 2020 Death Date: August 3, 2020 Fire Department: Houston Fire Department Initial Summary: On August 3, 2020, Firefighter/Paramedic Gerardo “Jerry” Pacheco was battling COVID-19 when he passed away. Firefighter/Paramedic Pacheco contracted the virus from exposure to COVID-19 in the workplace. Michigan: Steven Splan, 46 Rank: Sergeant Incident Date: August 2, 2020 Death Date: August 2, 2020 Fire Department: Bloomfield Hills Department of Public Safety Initial Summary: On August 2, 2020, Sergeant Steven Splan was on fire duty and, at approximately 1200hrs, helped to remove a tree blocking a roadway. Sergeant Splan, later in the evening during patrol, went on a meal break to the public safety building, where he was found unresponsive in the department kitchen. CPR was immediately performed and he was taken to the local hospital where he was pronounced deceased from an apparent heart attack late in the evening on August 2, 2020. New York: Alec Tannenbaum, 29 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: August 4, 2020
Death Date: August 4, 2020 Fire Department: Vails Gate Fire Department Initial Summary: Firefighter Alec Tannenbaum completed an on-duty shift Tuesday with the West Point Fire Department before responding to numerous storm-related alarms as a member of the Vails Gate Fire Department. Firefighter Tannenbaum was found unresponsive in his home late Tuesday, August 4, 2020. He was immediately transported to St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased from an apparent heart attack.
Florida: Anthony Craig "Tony" Christensen, 55 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: June 26, 2020 Death Date: August 4, 2020 Fire Department: City of Naples Fire-Rescue Initial Summary: Firefighters from the City of Naples Fire-Rescue responded to a medical emergency at a nursing home. The patient was exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 and results were received the next day that showed the patient was positive for the virus. Firefighter Anthony Craig “Tony” Christensen did not respond to this call. However, he was in direct contact with fellow firefighters who had been exposed to the virus from the nursing home. He subsequently contracted COVID-19 and passed away on Tuesday, August 4, 2020.
Hawaii: Eric Hayashi, 49 Rank: Fire Equipment Operator Incident Date: August 8, 2020 Death Date: August 8, 2020 Fire Department: Hawaii Fire Department Initial Summary: On Saturday, August 8, 2020, Fire Equipment Operator Eric Hayashi responded to an EMS call at a residence. While at the scene, Fire Equipment Operator Hayashi experienced a medical emergency. He was immediately taken to the Hilo Medical Center where he passed away a short time later from an apparent heart attack.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
November, 2020
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Man and Dog Struck and Killed by Freight Train in Newburgh Newburgh, NY - City of Newburgh FD was dispatched to a pedestrian struck by a freight train on October 6th. The incident occurred just after 12:30 P.M. on the tracks that cross near Renwick and JUMP TO FILE# Water Street. An 100620111 unidentified man was walking his dog on the tracks when they were both struck and killed by the train. New York State Police secured the scene while the Orange County Medical Examiner's Office was contacted. Mobile Life ALS was also at the scene. Water Street was blocked between Renwick and Washington Street during the incident. - BOB MCCORMICK
NEVER FORGET If you have photos you would like to see in our “Never Forget� feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
THOMAS MARRA
A 9/11 remembrance ceremony was held at the First Responder Honor Garden in Bethlehem on Friday, September 11th. Firefighters from the Selkirk, Elsmere, Delmar and Slingerlands Fire Departments lined up along with Bethlehem Police Officers for a glow-stick-lit tribute ceremony. The ceremony ended with the folding of the flag as those in attendance held glowsticks in the sunset.
Rick Billings
BOB MCCORMICK
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
THOMAS MARRA
A fully-involved vehicle fire in Coeymans Hollow spread to a small brush fire on both sides of the roadway. JEFFREY ARNOLD/@FIREPHOTO25
House Fire on Lincoln Avenue in Rochester
Rochester, NY - On Friday, September 25th at 10:44 P.M., Rochester firefighters responded to a house fire at 88 Lincoln Avenue. Units went on location with heavy smoke and fire conditions in a two-and-a-half story house. The fire proved difficult to extinguish due to hoarding conditions in the home. The blaze was brought under control in about 40 minutes, with firefighters remaining on scene for several hours performing overhaul operations. One occupant was treated for a minor injury. Three adults and one child were displaced by the fire and were being assisted by the Red Cross. The cause of the blaze is believed to have been of accidental origin, with the exact cause remaining under investigation.
Fully-Involved Vehicle Fire Leads to Brush Fire in Coeymans Hollow Coeymans Hollow, NY - A vehicle fire spread to a brush fire on both sides of the roadway in Coeymans Hollow on Friday, September 18th around 8:30 P.M. The Coeymans Hollow Fire Department was dispatched for a reported fully-involved vehicle fire on Jarvis Road North in the area of Bushendorf Road. An arriving unit notified incoming units that the vehicle was fully-involved and the fire had extended to a brush fire on both sides of the roadway. The fire had extended on both sides less than 50 ft., according to Chief Bill Kapusta of the Coey-
JUMP TO FILE #092620103 mans Hollow Fire Department. Chief Kapusta advised dispatch to re-dispatch his department for additional members due to the fire extending into the woods. An engine arrived on scene and began flowing water and foam onto the vehicle to extinguish the flames, but then crews faced difficulty with magnesium posing a challenge. "Water reacts with magnesium and actually enhances the fire," said Kapusta. "What we do is we
try to control it, so we don't put water on it, let it burn out, put the rest of the vehicle out and put the extension out." The bulk of the fire was knocked down within a few minutes, according to Kapusta, but it took approximately 30 minutes to completely extinguish the vehicle. Kapusta says the driver noticed some smoke and was able to get out of the vehicle when it went up in flames. There were no injuries reported on scene. - THOMAS MARRA
STILL IN SERVICE
If you have photos you would like to see in our “Still in Service� feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
BOB MCCORMICK
Departments Respond to Smoke in Basement
Cronomer Valley Fire Department was dispatched to smoke in a basement at 604 Dogwood Place on October 8th. Cronomer Valley Command requested Middlehope and Good Will FD to the scene with engines. Firefighters found that the furnace had been serviced yesterday and started this morning causing smoke condition in basement area. Orange County Deputy Fire Coordinator 36-13 and Town Newburgh Police were on scene.
Otisville Fire Rescue still operates a 1978 Mack CF 75' Aerialscope.
FRANK ROBINSON
Patient Rights and EMS Obligations EMS ISSUE
CHELLE CORDERO
One of the most often quoted and frequently misunderstood disputes about patient rights is HIPAA. HIPAA stands for Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act and is meant to protect a patient’s privacy. The privacy rules of patients apply to healthcare providers, healthcare plans, and businesses involved in the transmission of patient records (such as billing agencies). According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, some of those who are not required to follow strict HIPAA rules and regulations include law enforcement, child protective services, municipal and state agencies, and in some cases school districts, employers, life insurance agencies and court cases. According to the New York State Office of Mental Health, these are the Basic Principles of the Privacy Rule: 1. The Privacy Rule protects all “protected health information” (PHI), including individually identifiable health or mental health information held or transmitted by a covered entity in any format, including electronic, paper, or oral statements. 2. A major purpose of the Privacy Rule is to define and limit the circumstances under which an individual's PHI may be used or disclosed by covered entities. Generally, a covered entity may not use or disclose PHI to others, except: a. as the Privacy Rule permits or requires; or b. as authorized by the person (or personal representative) who is the subject of the health information. A HIPAAcompliant Authorization must contain specific information required by the Privacy Rules. 3. A covered entity must provide individuals (or their personal representatives) with access to their own PHI (unless there are permitted grounds for denial), and must provide an accounting of the disclosures of their PHI to others, upon their request. 4. The Privacy Rule supersedes State law, but State laws which provide greater privacy protections or which give individuals greater access to their own PHI remain in effect. However there are times when HIPAA falls into unknown territory and critical decisions must be made whether the patient’s privacy or other considerations take priority. COVID-19 has been both an unusual and dangerous health emergency and in March of 2020 a limited
HIPAA waiver was issued by the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Limited waivers for public health emergencies generally expire within 72-hours unless other potentially life-threatening situations exist. There are currently some grey areas where HIPAA rules must still be applied. If a patient gives (written) consent, doctors and hospitals may give out some patient info; if a patient is unconscious the patient’s health history may be shared AS NECESSARY in order to provide treatment; and in cases where there may have been public exposure to a life threatening virus, patient information may be shared with nec-
essary agencies. At all times the priority is the patient’s privacy — in other words, share only what is absolutely necessary. Any health practitioner or agency who does share this confidential patient health information can be subject to scrutiny and could be fined and other censure if found that the information shared was done maliciously or carelessly. Since COVID-19 has been an ongoing problem for several months and is sadly expected to flare again during this winter’s flu season, it is a good idea for all EMS agencies to review HIPAA with their members and exact procedures to follow when privacy rules are in question.
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
LITTLE BIG GUYS
If you have photos you would like to see in our Little Big Guys feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
FRANK ROBINSON
Ulster Hose No.5 operates a 2011 Ford F550/Seagrave 500/300 Mini Pumper.
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November, 2020
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
FIREFIGHTER PROFILES If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Firefighter Profiles” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
THOMAS MARRA
Boot Drive Held for Ravena-Area Burn Fund Ravena, NY - A boot drive was held in Ravena by area fire departments to raise money on Saturday, September 19th. Members from the Ravena, Coeymans, Coeymans Hollow, New Baltimore and Medway-Grapeville Fire Departments were staged at the intersections of Route 9W with Route 143, Main Street, Wendell Street to collect donations. The donations were for the Joseph Dunn Memorial Burn Fund, which money raised from donations is used to assist families within the fire districts in the event of a house fire. JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER/SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY
IIt all started in 1973 when now Captain Jim Fennen of the Cohoes Fire Department walked into the station and began volunteering his time helping the firefighters by washing rigs, rolling hose, and helping around the fire department. He continued helping at the fire department through high school up to the day he graduated and then joined the New York Air National Guard where he became a firefighter, moving up the ranks from firefighter to Deputy Chief of Operations of the United States Air Force. Captain Fennen had a 22 year career in the United States Air Force. While Captain Fennen was in the Air National Guard he followed his dreams and became a Cohoes Firefighter on December 25, 1989 and it was all up hill from there. Captain Fennen moved up the ranks quickly in the Cohoes Fire Department, going from a Captain in 1996, to Deputy Chief in 2001 and then to Chief of the Department in 2002 before stepping back to his present rank of captain in the department. Captain Fennen was present for most of the
largest fires in the city's history, including the Mill fires of the 1990’s and 2000’s, and the most recent massive fire on Remsen Street where numerous buildings were destroyed and 31 buildings were damaged. Now retiring after 31 years of service to the residents of the City of Cohoes, Captain Fennen plans to take it easy and enjoy retirement with his family and friends. When we asked Captain Fennen what he will miss the most he stated, “I'm going to miss my fellow firefighters and the strong dedication they have for the city. Also, the smell of the firehouse after a fire, but also washing the fire engine after a long day." Captain Fennen is well loved by all of the firefighters from the department and is seen as a mentor for the new firefighters that are coming on to the job. He will be missed by all of his coworkers. We at Sidewinder Photography would like to wish Captain Jim Fennen a healthy, long, and happy retirement. - JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER
VEHICLE NEWS
Ulster Hose No.5 now operates a 2019 Seagrave 1500/1000.
FRANK ROBINSON
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
November, 2020
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
Hot to trot… FORK & HOSE CO. a Food Blog by A.J. Fusco
JEFFREY ARNOLD/@FIREPHOTO25
Cooler autumn weather is the perfect time for chili; and while slow cookers are certainly popular when it comes to chili, nothing beats cooking it in a pot on the stove top so the aromas fill the firehouse. I mean, if chili ever had a “season” it most certainly is now. This dish is the quintessential fire-
house meal; it’s cheap, flavorful and can feed a crowd. Every year, firehouses all over the country have chili cookoffs, often resulting in heated competitions amongst local companies. See what I did there? And ask any firehouse chef, there are a million and one ways to make it and everyone has the best recipe. Most chili recipes are your standard beef, tomato and chile based, which is absolutely delicious and easily the most popular way to make it. But sometimes we crave variety or just something different to keep things interesting, and this Chipotle-Turkey Chili is the perfect answer to that. Ground
turkey is a great ingredient to use if you are looking to lighten up a dish. It has much less calories than beef, but still adds a ton of protein to help fill up the crew. But with this leaner meat also comes less flavor. With that being said, turkey is a blank canvas for other flavors like cumin, coriander and chipotle. Garnishing with avocado adds some extra healthy fat and cilantro is the perfect ingredient to brighten it up. So if you are looking for something different to make at the firehouse, but still keep everyone happy...look no further! Stay safe, eat well!
CHIPOTLE-TURKEY CHILI Serves 4
Ingredients:
JEFFREY ARNOLD/@FIREPHOTO25
Commercial Building Fire in Rochester Rochester, NY - On Tuesday, September 22nd at 2:15 P.M., Rochester firefighters were dispatched to a report of a fire in a machine at Pflaudler Incorporated, 1000 West Avenue. Fire units arrived on location and found heavy smoke showing from a large commercial building. The blaze is believed to have started when a hydraulic line burst and the oil was ignited by the heat of the machine, which then spread to some nearby wood pallets and the roof. An additional engine and foam unit were special called to the scene to extinguish the burning oil. All of the employees were able to evacuate the building, and no injuries were reported.
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1 lb. Ground Turkey 1 Small Carrot, rough chopped 1 Celery, rough chopped 1 Medium Onion, rough chopped (½ reserved for garnish) 1 Garlic Clove 1 Bell Pepper, seeded and chopped 2 - 14 oz. Cans Chopped Tomatoes (preferably fireroasted) 2 - 14 oz. Cans Black Beans, drained Adobo Sauce from can of Chipotle Peppers, to taste 1 tsp. Cumin 1 tsp. Paprika 1 tsp. Coriander 1 tsp. Dried Oregano 1 tsp. Chili Powder Salt, to taste Black Pepper, to taste EVOO Garnish (Optional): 1 Avocado, chopped 1 Lime, cut into wedges 1 Jalapeno, sliced Chopped Raw Onion Handful of Fresh Cilantro, chopped
*Note: I am a firm believer that no pot of chili is the same when it comes to seasonings. Please taste yours and adjust it according to your liking. Procedure:
-In a food processor, combine the carrot, celery, ½ of the onion and garlic. Pulse into a paste. If you do not have a food processor, just finely mince them all together. This is your sofrito mixture.
-In a large stock pot over medium heat, add enough EVOO to cover the bottom of pot. When the oil is shimmering, add your ground turkey. Do NOT touch the turkey now until it starts to brown. At this point, season with a generous pinch of salt. Flip the turkey over and brown the other side. Add your sofrito mixture and start to break up the turkey. Cook, stirring frequently until mixture just starts to get some color. -Add the dried spices, stir until fragrant. Now add the chopped tomatoes and stir to combine.
AJ FUSCO
-Add the bell pepper and 1 can of black beans. Bring to a simmer. Puree the other can of black beans in a food processor and add to the pot. This step is optional but adds body to the chili. If you don’t have a food processor you can just mash them up with a fork. After about 10 minutes or so, taste and adjust and seasonings/spices. At this point, add the chipotle a little at a time. Taste and adjust. -Continue cooking for 20-30 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve with avocado, cilantro, chopped onion and lime wedge.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
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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.
The Coxsackie Hose #3 fire department held a wetdown ceremony for their new tanker on Saturday, September 19. The department took deliver of a brand new tanker, ETA 5-6, which was placed in service back in April. Apparatus from Coxsackie Hose #3, D.M Hamilton Steamer Co. #2, Athens, New Baltimore, MedwayGrapeville, Hudson fire departments were in attendance to assist in the wetdown ceremony. Members then ceremoniously pushed the new truck into the firehouse truck bay.
MIKE CAREY
Firefighters from departments throughout the town of Colonie gathered to pay tribute to Colonie Captain Ron Baker.
A Final Salute for a Colonie Captain THOMAS MARRA
Colonie, NY - Family and friends gathered on Saturday, September 12th, to remember a longtime firefighter and paramedic in Colonie. Ron Baker died September 4th at the age of 79. He started a longtime dedication to fire and EMS service in 1974 when he joined the Colonie Fire Department. A year later, he was named firefighter of the year, an honor he would receive again in 1984. He became a certified EMT in 1975, and helped develop the EMS program in the Troy Fire Department. He served as the city's EMS Coordinator
JUMP TO FILE #092120110 from 1979-1990 and went on to serve an instrumental role in creating the Colonie town EMS department in 1989. He served as Deputy Chief of the Colonie EMS from 1991-2002, and was one of the first first responders from the Albany area to respond to ground zero after the 9-11 attacks. Ron served several other roles in addition to his time as a firefighter and paramedic. He was an instructor in the paramedic pro-
gram at Hudson Valley Community College, and a part-time paramedic with the Windham Mountain Ski Patrol. At the time of his death, he served as a regional fire instructor for the New York State Department of Homeland Security. Firefighters, colleagues, friends and family gathered at Cook Park on September 11th to pay their respects. A funeral with full honors took place September 12th, including a final salute at the Colonie Village Firehouse. - MIKE CAREY
THOMAS MARRA
THOMAS MARRA MIKE CAREY
Members of the Colonie Village Fire Department salute as the funeral procession for Captain Ron Baker passes in front of the firehouse
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EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES If you have photos you would like to see in our “Emergency Medical Services” feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
JOHN SMITH
Working Structure Fire in Jamestown
Jamestown, NY - On September 20th, the Jamestown Fire Department was dispatched to 218 Barret Ave. for a reported structure fire. Medic 35 went on scene and reported a working structure. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
BOB MCCORMICK
Like so many areas of our lives in the past few months, we’ve had to adjust to social distancing and COVID era precautions… and this certainly presented a challenge for the NYSVARA organizers of Pulse Check 2020. But they really stepped up and still made it happen in a big way! According to Teresa A. Hamilton, NYSVARA’s Executive Vice President and Pulse Check Conference Chair, they realized as far back as March “the significant influence of the pandemic on large gatherings” and knew their conference was in serious jeopardy. “Following several calls with our conference committee, education committee and Grey Goose Graphics-our production company we made the decision to go virtual the first week of June”. For decades the conference had only been an in-person event. There were concerns about changing the format so drastically noting that a lot of the attraction of previous conferences was the face-toface interaction and networking. “Going Virtual required several changes in programming which our production company was instrumental in helping us re-format the conference which typically is held over a four-day period into a single day virtual event. We immediately recognized that many people are already ‘Zoomed Out’ and the event would have to be formatted to keep viewers’ attention.” Ms. Hamilton explained, “Outside of the educational component, many activities such as our banquet, youth drill competition and our youth workshop and vendor displays were eliminated from the event. However we did have some
steadfast vendors who supported our conference with sponsorships.” Calling their educational team “an awesome collective of the best-of-the-best” she explained how their presenters “all stepped up without hesitation” and modified where needed to fit into the new format. The presenters came from backgrounds which included decades of EMS, healthcare, first-response experience and multiple degrees. Participants got to learn from highly skilled clinicians and educators which included, Scot Phelps, Joel Warden, Jeff Myers, Dan Batsie, Jason Haag, Steve Kroll, Jennifer Salomon, Douglas Wildermuth, Drew Anderson, Travis Howe, Samantha Greene, Mike McEvoy, and Bruce Barry. The First-Ever-Virtual-PulseCheck conference was held Saturday, September 12 via ZOOM and was televised from the Albany Marriot under the direction of John Hussar of Grey Goose Graphics Production Company and Management team. More than 600 participants registered from across New York State and took advantage of the education and CMEs provided. The committee also agreed that “that with many families financially impacted by the pandemic, this is the year that NYSVARA and the event sponsors give back to our EMS community” and the event was offered at no cost to the attendees. The event opened with the Keynote address ‘The Future of EMS’ presented by Scot Phelps, JD, MPH, Paramedic Director, and Paramedic Emergency Health Science Degree Program Union County College. Several topics followed
and included highly informative and very relevant topics such as: EMS Agency Collaboration; Pelvic Injuries; Facial Trauma; Continuity of Agency Operations; Patients and Cannabis; Trauma, and the Secondary Effects of Danger in EMS; Conflict Resolution; Mental Status Exams; Vascular Zebras; ETOH Patients; CPAP Tips; Human Trafficking; and Pediatric Respiratory Failure. The program also presented the annual awards ceremony and memorial service by prerecording presentations and webcasting those videos during the lunch break and immediately following the afternoon educational session. The 2020 sponsors that helped to make this unique conference available included: ProClaim - EMS Solutions & Billing; E5 Support Services, LLC; Elmont Fire Department; Good Samaritan Hospital; Grey Goose Graphics, LLC; Huntington Community First Aid Squad; Middle Island Fire Company; NYSVARA DISTRICT 1; NYSVARA DISTRICT 7; NYSVARA DISTRICT 12 Instructors; Public Safety Check by g3Coding; Quick Med Claims; SeniorCare EMS; Tour 3 Systems; and Second Chance Safety LLC. The Pulse Check Committee and Grey Goose Graphics created a format that facilitated “commercial breaks” to provide significant sponsor exposure. Theresa said that discussions are already underway for Pulse Check 2021 and there is consideration being given to the possibility of a hybrid or virtual component. There will be many decisions to be made, but this year’s program has already proven to be a huge success. - CHELLE CORDERO
Vehicle Rolls Over in Plattekill Plattekill, NY - Plattekill FD was dispatched to a vehicle rollover on Prospect Hill Road on October 7th. Firefighters assisted with getting the operator out of the vehicle. Plattekill EMS transported one subject to Montefiore/St. Luke's Hospital. Firefighters spread speedy dry on fluids on the roadway. Town of Newburgh Police are investigating the cause.
PULSE CHECK
The first presentation of the day, Scot Phelps gave the keynote presentation, "The Future of EMS".
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NEVER FORGET If you have photos you would like to see in our “Never Forget” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
Every year since 2007 a group of photographers have held a photo shoot for firefighters of their rigs in front of the twin 9-11 beams. This has always been at no charge to the departments, both career and volunteer, to express thanks for the job they do. This year, 186 emergency vehicles from four states gathered at Liberty State Park with their brother first responders for the photo shoot, and to be sure those lost on that day are never forgotten.
BATH VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT
16 Companies Battle HAZ-MAT Blaze in Two Bath Buildings Former Tallman Snorkel
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Bath, NY - On Thursday, September 24th at 2:50 P.M., the Bath Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched for a working structure fire at T&R Environmental Services JUMP TO FILE# Haz Mat building, 092820102 located next door to T&R Towing on Route 415 North of the Village of Bath. Large plumes of heavy black smoke could be seen for miles. Assistant Chief Sean Walruth was first on scene and immediately started calling for mutual aid tankers for water and manpower. In all, 16 departments were called to aid in our effort to bring the massive fire under control. The building housed the team's response equipment and trailers, as well as large tanks of used oil and several barrels of oil, hydraulic oil and other maintenance fluids. T&R Environmental Specialist is a division of T&R Towing of Bath which is next door, but was undamaged in the blaze. Originally, T&R Environmental Response Haz Mat building was fully involved in intense flame and heavy black smoke. There were several large fireballs that went high into the sky from the barrels of oil that were exploding. Crews were set up to try to protect the T&R office and dispatch center and the Fred Roberts Auto Parts buildings located on each side of the Haz Mat building. The dispatch building was saved, however the intense heat got into the Fred Roberts Auto building, totally involving that as well due to the heavy load of oil, paint, paint thinner and other flammable materials inside the auto parts store. It took roughly four hours to bring the fire under control and a
BATH VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT
A fireball and heavy smoke fill the sky when one of several barrels of oil exploded from the intense heat.
few hours more to mop up and extinguish the fire completely. By the time Bath units returned to quarters and got the equipment back in ready condition for calls it was approximately 11:30 P.M. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. Bath Volunteer Ambulance was on scene in case of injuries and to monitor firefighters through the duration of the fire. Law enforcement agencies went door to door to local homes in the immediate area to evacuate them to safety. Brian Polmanteer, who is the owner of T&R, wants to extend his gratitude to all the departments and everyone that came to help in his time of need. He is just grateful none of his employees or any of the firefighters were seriously hurt during the fire. One of the employ-
ees was treated at the scene for minor burns. The Bath Volunteer Fire Department is extremely grateful to all the mutual aid departments that came to help battle this inferno, and the department's ladies auxiliary, The Fireflies, for making sandwiches and bringing drinks to the scene. We also would like to thank the following businesses who donated food and water to all of the firefighters: Sav-A-Lot, Rico’s Pizza, Angry Oven Pizza, Pizza D, Big D’s & Chef T’s, Pilot Truck Stop, Southern Tier Provisions, Maybe Baby Burgers, and Tractor Supply. A special thanks also to Mary Seager, a neighbor of the fire station, who came and helped make sandwiches. - JOHN CONRAD
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Cause of Working House Fire on Ave. A in Rochester Deemed Suspicious Rochester, NY - Rochester Firefighters arrived to Avenue A around 4:15 A.M. on Tuesday morning, September 22nd, to find all three levels of a home in flames. Crews needed to wait for the attic to collapse before JUMP TO FILE# they could effec- 092720102 tively begin knocking down the flames. This was an exterior attack only. The fire was under control within two hours. The first floor of the vacant structure was completely boarded up, and officials deemed the fire suspicious after finding that a gas line in the home had been cut. - GUY ZAMPATORI JR
GUY ZAMPATORI JR
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New York Rescues (5) VIDEO REVIEW
Video reviews by John Malecky
New York Rescues (5) (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: support@fire-policeems.com www.fire-police-ems.com Price $69.95
This is the final disk of the five DVD set and features Rescue 5 stationed in the Borough of Staten Island. The footage takes place in 1997 when they were assigned a Mack MR/Saulsbury rescue truck with a walk-in body in which four crew members suited up and sat during responses. Their current res-
cue trucks have non-walk-in bodies and the entire crew rides in the cab. This DVD is 45 minutes rather than the others, which were 60 minutes. This coverage is different than the other four in the following respects: there is no introduction by any member of the company and there are no interviews or training sessions with specialized equipment. There is also no narration by the videographer. All that can be heard is radio traffic, which is not very audible in most cases. There is also no indication of what is burning, nor the date, box number or the number of alarms. On the back of the jacket of the set is a brief explanation of what is within and two third alarm fires are mentioned. The fires are spectacular! One is in an attached two story building which could be a dwelling, offices or commercial establishments. Take your pick! The buildings are fully involved with exposures being threatened. Tower ladder streams and some handlines operate and have their work cut out for them.
The second fire appears to be in what might be a private property with several expensive dwellings. The main fire is in the middle and two large buildings are exposed and burning. It is unclear what is burning in the middle. There is a construction shovel on the property which suggests that there was work in progress and the main fire may have been a building under construction because not much is left of it. Tower Ladder 77 comes in off the street and goes to work with its platform stream. Rescue 5 is heavily engaged in both of these fires, but a videographer would never be able to get close enough to view them. Other parts of this DVD involve riding along with the crew while they gear up during responses. The DVD is also dedicated to a firefighter from the company who lost his life and part of the proceeds will help his family. This footage is a fitting way to bring to a close a salute to New York City rescues!
VINNIE DOMINICK
VINNIE DOMINICK
Winona Lake Teaches Fire Prevention
Newburgh, NY - On October 9th, Winona Lake Engine Company went to Tots-N-Us preschool to teach fire prevention. The firefighters showed the kids the trucks and asked them questions about what they would do if there was a fire.
Kochek Introduces New, Upgraded Pistol Grip Ball Valves September 14, 2020--Putnam, CT - Kochek Company, LLC has announced that new, custom Scotty pistol grip ball valves are replacing its former offerings. The new Kochek ball valves in 1.0” and 1.5" sizes are now sourced directly from Scotty® Firefighter to ensure durability and top-quality performance. To further meet the rigorous demands of the field, Kochek re-engineered the Scotty models to include a lightweight aluminum full-time 360º female swivel on all models and aluminum male threads on most models, excluding those with 1.5” NH Male threads. These high-flow pistol grip ball valves are compatible with most 1.0” and 1.5” threaded nozzles, allowing for flow rates up to 100 GPM. They come with a bail positioned on top, permitting reliable, smooth shut-off operation. All Kochek's standard finishes and colors are available on the aluminum components, and laser engraving is available. Scotty® Firefighter, a division of Scott Plastics Limited based in British Columbia, Canada, manufactures forestry hand pumps and backpacks, foam and gel systems,
nozzles, wrenches, adapters, connectors, and valves. A complete product view is found at www.ScottyFire.com.
About Kochek Headquartered in Putnam, CT, Kochek Company is a leading producer of water movement products for fire, water works, and irrigation markets throughout North America and abroad. In order to achieve its mission to manufacture and deliver the highest quality products at competitive prices, Kochek follows the guiding principles of lean manufacturing. More information about Kochek and the company's entire product line may be found at www.kochek.com. - PROVIDED
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
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.
A wetdown ceremony was held at the Round Top Fire Department on Saturday, September 12, for the delivery of their new tanker. The department received a delivery of a brand new tanker 24-2. Since the annual awards dinner was cancelled due to COVID-19, they decided to use the ceremony to hand out their Firefighter of the Year award, typically handed out at the annual dinner. The award was awarded to member Steve Higgins. The members of the fire department auxiliary also used the event to surprise the department with a check to help pay for supplies for the new truck. The ladder truck from the Greenville Fire Department sprayed the water from above, with a tanker from the Cairo Fire Department supplying water to the ladder truck.
THOMAS MARRA
THOMAS MARRA
November, 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
BOB MCCORMICK
MVA with Injuries in Newburgh
THOMAS MARRA
A ceremony was held on Sunday, September 20th, to dedicate the Blvd. of Honor in Ravena. Individuals from the VFW Post 9594 in Ravena, the Highway Department and local fire departments placed banners of local veterans along Main Street throughout Ravena and Coeymans. The ceremony dedicated Main Street in Ravena as the Blvd. of Honor, in honor of those who have served.
Newburgh, NY - City of Newburgh FD was dispatched to Liberty and Clinton Street on October 7th for a two-vehicle accident with unknown injuries. Newburgh Command requested Mobile Life ALS to the scene. City of Newburgh Police also responded. Firefighters spread speedy dry on fluids on the roadway and assisted with removing two injured parties. Mobile Life ALS transported two subjects to Montefiore/St. Luke's Hospital. City of Newburgh Police are investigating the cause.
This section is exclusively dedicated to coverage of Long Island emergency services PUBLISHING SINCE 1993
LONGISLAND
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NEWS
NOVEMBER, 2020
MOTORCYCLIST KILLED IN NORTH PATCHOGUE CRASH
SABELLA/ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY 2020
North Patchogue, NY - On Saturday evening, September 12th, a car and motorcycle collided after the car attempted to make a left hand turn onto Shaber Rd. in front of the motorcyclist, who was traveling northbound on County Rd. 83.
- See full story on Page 31
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LONG ISLAND ADVERTISER
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33 SABELLA/ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY 2020
CORPORATE INFORMATION 1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New York edition - Vol. 21 No. 11 - 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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SABELLA/ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY 2020
Car Lands on Second Car in Farmingville Crash
Farmingville, NY - On Thursday afternoon, September 24th, a car broke down in the right lane of a three lane roadway on County Rd. 83. Another car traveling in that lane was able to stop just short of the disabled car, but an SUV traveling at a high rate of speed was unable to stop, slamming into the second car, driving it into the first car. The SUV landed on top of the second car's roof, crushing it. The driver of the SUV was the only one injured and taken to a local hospital with chest pain. Firefighters from Farmingvile secured the scene, closing two of the three lanes.
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.
Passenger Killed in Central Islip Wreck
Central Islip, NY - On Wednesday afternoon, September 30th around 12:00 P.M., a car and a flatbed truck collided in front of 116 W Suffolk Ave. in Central Islip. Firefighters from Central Islip removed the remainder of the car's roof after one person was trapped and then called for a Medivac. A few minutes later the person was transported by ground in arrest. A total of four people were in the car, and the nature of injuries was not known on remaining passengers. SCPD 3rd squad detectives and crime scene units responded for an investigation. A witness on scene stated that the driver fled on foot and was arrested a few minutes later on possible DWI charges. The passenger was rushed by CI Hauppauge Ambulance, where they succumbed to their injuries.
Additional news from Long Island can be found on our website at www.1rbn.com
JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS
SABELLA/ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY 2020
Car Slams Pole in Lakeland Fire District
Mom and Three Kids Seriously Injured in Farmingville Crash
Ronkonkoma, NY - On Saturday, September 26th at about 11:54 A.M., the Lakeland FD was dispatched for a car vs. pole on Ocean Ave. and Peconic St. Chief 3-13-31 was on scene first and advised there was a car vs. pole with no one trapped. Rescue 6 responded in and firefighters secured the vehicle and cleaned up debris. Speedy dry was put down to cover the fluid spill at the scene. The pole sustained heavy damage as it was shifted several inches from where it originally was placed and was cracked at the bottom. One person was transported to a local hospital by Ambulance 17 with non-lifethreatening injuries.
Farmingville, NY - On Friday afternoon, September 25th around 5:00 P.M., just one day after a crash on the same roadway, a mom and her three daughters were seriously injured after their car broke down in the right hand lane of Country Rd 83 and was struck by a Jeep also traveling in the right lane at a high rate of speed. Both Selden and Farmingville Fire Departments responded and transported three of the four people in the car. One person was airlifted to a trauma center with major trauma. The driver of the Jeep was given several field sobriety tests and then cuffed and transported to a local PCT for overnight lodging.
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LONG ISLAND
Mastic and Shirley EMS members and Mastic FD operating at a double pedestrian struck.
JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS
Vehicle Takes Out Two Pedestrians in Mastic Mastic, NY - On Saturday, September 19th at about 5:15 P.M., the Mastic Fire Department was activated along with Mastic Ambulance for a reported vehicle crash on Patchogue Ave. near Mastic Rd. Chief of Department Rudy Sunderman was first to respond followed by 2nd Lt. Rudy M. Sunderman. County advised the chief that they were receiving calls for two pedestrians hit by a car at that intersection. On arrival, Chief Sunderman found that two pedestrians were hit and directed the crew from Engine 5-12-1 to assist in clean up as well as securing the scene for EMS' arrival. Mastic Ambulance Chief Maria along with Responder 81
JUMP TO FILE #092720105 and Ambulance 17 arrived on scene and began to asses the patients and requested an additional ambulance to the scene. The second ambulance was sent to the scene from Shirley to assist. Both pedestrians were assessed and their injuries were not deemed serious in nature. They were taken by ground to a local hospital. Patchogue Ave. was closed for about 20 to 30 minutes while firefighters and EMS were on scene working. Suffolk County Police were also on scene.
JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS
Ridge FD Special Operations Gator comes out of the woods with an injured ATV rider.
Ridge FD Gator Handles Rescue Response in Woods Ridge, NY - On Sunday, September 13th at about 3:49 P.M., the Ridge Fire Department was requested for a gator to respond for an injury from a fall at the end of Old Saddle Rd. near Elizabeth Way. Ridge Fire Department responded under the command of Chief of the Department, Lou Kaiser [5-22-30]. The Ridge FD responded with Special Ops unit 5-228, Ambulances 15 and 20, 1st
JUMP TO FILE #091320121 responder 81 and Assistant Chief Wesley Phillips [5-22-31]. On arrival they found an ATV operator who had fallen off his ATV after riding illegally through the woods. Firefighters secured the fallen rider, who appeared to have a leg injury, and transported him out
of the woods. The rider refused transport to the hospital. He received a ticket and was released to the custody of his parent upon their arrival at the scene. All Ridge FD units were back in service within an hour of the call originally activating. Suffolk Park Rangers, Sheriffs and State Forest Rangers were all on scene. - JOHN WALTHERS
- JOHN WALTHERS
SABELLA/ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY 2020
High Impact Car Crash with Entrapment in Selden
Selden, NY - On Sunday night, October 4th at 6:39 P.M., two cars collided at Adirondack and Rte. 25 in Selden. The impact of the crash sent one car spinning off the roadway, sending one person to the hospital with serious injuries after her car was hit on the driver side by the front end of a SUV. The driver, trapped and unconscious, was removed by firefighters who took the door using hydraulic cutting tools. She was then rushed to University Hospital in Stonybrook. SCPD closed the roadway for an investigation.
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LONG ISLAND
SABELLA/ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY 2020
Five Injured in Crash Involving Ambulance in East Patchogue East Patchogue, NY - On Tuesday night, September 23rd at 10:15 P.M., a Jeep and a South Country ambulance that was enroute to the hospital with lights and sirens sounding collided at the intersection of County Rd. 101 and Woodside Ave. in East Patchogue. Three people from the ambulance, including the original patient, were taken to the hospital. The two people in the car were also transported to Community Hospital. One kid with a serious leg injury was then transported to Stony Brook University Hospital from Community Hospital for further treatment.
CONNOR JACOBS
Patchogue and Blue Point Fire Department members checking the house for extension of fire.
House Catches Fire in Patchogue After Transformer Blows Patchogue, NY - On Saturday, September 26th around 8:30 P.M., a call came in for a reported house fire at 16 Harold St. On arrival of the chief, there were no flames showing so he began to investigate. Upon entering the home and going in the basement, he found an active fire near an electrical panel caused by a nearby transformer that blew and caused the whole block to lose power.
JUMP TO FILE #100220102 The first due engine stretched a line into the home. Due to the location of the fire being on a narrow block the chief requested multiple engines to park on Waverly Ave. and walk their crews to the scene. Blue Point FD was activated on the mutual aid for a RIT team to the scene and was sent to
a staging area on arrival. Crews were able to make a quick knock down of the fire without activating a working fire assignment for additional mutual aids besides the RIT team. Patchogue Ambulance was on scene for support and firefighter rehab if needed. A fire marshal and coordinator were also called to the scene. - CONNOR JACOBS
COMMAND VEHICLES
If your Department has photos you would like to see in our “Command Vehicles� feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
SABELLA/ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY 2020
Man in Mastic Beach Seriously Burned in Boat Fire Mastic Beach, NY - On September 18th, a male was on a boat at the Mastic Beach Yacht Club when he was forced to leap into the water after the boat became involved in fire. The male occupant also became involved in flame and jumped overboard, where he was pulled out with serious burns. Firefighters from Mastic Beach FD extinguished the blaze and ambulance personnel transported the male to an awaiting helicopter for Medivac to a local burn center.
FRANKIE VERDERAME
BrookHaven Chief 32 clearing up from an open burn on a recent Saturday afternoon.
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SABELLA/ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY 2020
Motorcyclist Killed in North Patchogue Crash
North Patchogue, NY - On Saturday evening, September 12th, a car and motorcycle collided after the car attempted to make a left hand turn onto Shaber Rd. in front of the motorcyclist, who was traveling northbound on County Rd. 83. The collision sent the motorcyclist flying off the bike into the roadway. The impact trapped the occupant in the rear passenger seat, who had to be freed by hydraulic tools. The motorcycist was rushed by North Patchogue FD Ambulance to a trauma center where he passed away the next morning.
CONNOR JACOBS
Firefighters putting water on the fire.
Boat Engulfs Into Flames in Mastic Beach Mastic Beach, NY - On Friday evening, September 18th, the Mastic Beach, Mastic and Center Moriches Fire Departments, along with the Mastic Beach Volunteer Ambulance Company were toned out for a boat fire at the Whittier Marina on Riviera Drive. The first Mastic Beach unit on the scene was Chief Jeff McGowan. He advised fire-com that he had a fully involved boat in the water. The first engine on the scene was 5-13-
JUMP TO FILE #091920100 8. They were given orders by Chief McGowan to stretch two hand lines and went to work; 5-13-2 and 5-134 arrived shortly after and brought their manpower to the scene to help. Chief McGowan also found that he had a burn victim with serious burns to his face and back in the water being helped by civilians until
EMS arrived. Due to the burn injuries the victim was brought by ambulance to St. Jude Church where he was then airlifted by a police helicopter and transported to the burn center at the Stony Brook University Medical Center. The Suffolk County Police Arson Squad was called to the scene to investigate the cause of the fire. - CONNOR JACOBS
APPARATUS IN ACTION If you have photos you would like to see in our Apparatus in Action feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
SABELLA/ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY 2020
Car Overturns After Head-On Collision in Medford Medford, NY - Just after 8:30 P.M. on September 11th, a Dodge Challenger T-boned an SUV at the intersection of Woodside Ave. and Sipp, causing the SUV to overturn. Neither driver was trapped, and were both treated and stabilized at the scene. BrookHaven Fire Department Rescue 3 on scene of an Automatic Fire Alarm (AFA).
FRANKIE VERDERAME
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LONG ISLAND VEHICLE NEWS
BOB VACCARO
The Garden City Park FD recently took delivery of a 2018 Pierce Velocity 100' Tower featuring a blue-overred color scheme.
BOB VACCARO
The North Bellmore FD recently took delivery of a 2020 Pierce Velocity Ascendant 100' Tower. The truck was dedicated to Ex Chief Arthur W. White, Jr.
The Islip Terrace FD recently took delivery of a Seagrave Marauder Heavy Rescue.
BOB VACCARO
BOB VACCARO
BOB VACCARO
The Lindenhurst FD recently took delivery of twin Rosenbauer Commander Pumpers. Both 1-6-1 and 1-63 have 1500-GPM pumps and 750-gallon water tanks.
The Roslyn Rescue and Hook and Ladder Fire Company recently took delivery of a Pierce Arrow XT Ascendant Platform.
BOB VACCARO
The Southampton FD has taken delivery of a Rosenbauer, Commander, T-REX 115' Articulating Platform. The vehicle was chosen for its outstanding reach and manuverability in their response district.
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
Four Injured After MVA with Overturn in Yaphank Yaphank, NY - On Sunday afternoon, September 20th, two cars collided on Patch/Yaphank Rd. and the N Service Rd. of L.I.E. The crash caused one car to overturn, trapping the occupants. Yaphank firefighters took the roof, freeing the occupants. One occupant was seriously injured and airlifted by SCPD helicopter. Three other occupants and the driver of a brand new BMW were all taken by ambulance.
JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS
Firefighter Billy Anderson of Mastic Beach secures a vehicle after a 2-car crash, Sept. 27th.
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
FDNY Don’t Vote for the Mule Your Vote Makes a Difference Chaplain’s Corner Pastor Fernando Villicana
In 1938 the name Boston Curtis appeared on the ballot for Republican Committeeman from Milton Washington. In reality, Boston Curtis was a donkey. The town’s mayor sponsored the animal to demonstrate that people know very little about the candidates. He proved his point - the mule actually won the election! It’s sad but true that too many Americans know very little about their government. Did you know that 10 major political decisions were won by just 1 vote? By One Vote Oliver Cromwell was given control of England in 1845 By One Vote Charles I was executed in 1649
By One Vote English was made the official language in the U.S. over German in 1776
By One Vote Texas was admitted to the Union in 1845. By One Vote President Andrew Johnson was saved from execution after his impeachment in 1868 .
By One Vote France was changed from a monarchy to a republic in 1875 By One Vote Rutherford B. Hayes became our 19th president in 1876 By One Vote Hitler won leadership of the German Nazi Party in 1923
By One Vote The US House of Representatives, in 1801, elected Thomas Jefferson as President of the United States By One Vote In 1941, the Selective Service Act (the draft) was saved by a one-vote margin just weeks before Pearl Harbor was attacked
Yes, Your Vote Makes a Difference
Proverbs 29:2 When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man/woman rules, the people groan. This is why it is so very important for us to pray and vote. And know why we are voting for a particular candidate! I had someone tell me recently: “Well, I’m gonna sit this one out and just pray.” We need to understand something! We must pray AND VOTE!
I read a short story about two boys and their views on dealing with a crisis. Two Christian boys decided to take a short cut across a fenced field after church one day. After hopping the fence and walking a short distance they noticed a raging bull kicking up the dirt and snorting out of his nostrils. One boy looked at the other and said: “We better stop and pray.”The second boy looked at him and said: “No, we’d better run and pray.” Well, we better pray and vote! Critically important issues are at stake in this Presidential election Christian!
-How do you feel about abortion (sanctity of life)? -Late term and partial birth abortion? -Same sex marriage? -War, terrorism, foreign policy? -Open borders/closed borders? -Economy - the ability to prosper and grow and purchase homes etc.?
All of these and more will be heavily impacted by our next President. How do the presidential candidates values measure up to the Word of God (Bible)? 2 Samuel 23:3 “He who rules over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God.”
Psalm 33:12 Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people he chose for his inheritance. Don’t Vote for the Mule Your Vote Makes a Difference
FDNY
Workers Rescued from Hanging Scaffold in Manhattan Manhattan, NY - “At approximately 9:10 A.M. on October 6th, calls came into 911 for a hanging scaffold. The first Fire Department unit arrived on the scene approximately four-and-a-half minutes later to find an off-level hanging JUMP TO FILE# scaffold with two 100920101 workers attached to it. We operated for approximately 40 minutes. We secured the workers, provided a communication link to them, and then we cut the windows to remove them into the building. Both were examined by EMS and both refused further medical attention,” says FDNY Deputy Assistant Chief Michael Ajello from the scene at 250 Vesey Street in Manhattan where two workers were removed from a hanging scaffold. FDNY Engine 10 and Ladder 10 arrived first on scene, where they quickly assessed the individuals for injuries, and secured them with rope. FDNY Lieutenant John Tobin, Rescue 1, says, “The first two companies did a phenomenal job getting rope on them to secure them. We checked the scaffold to make sure that it wouldn’t move any further, and then Rescue 1 proceeded to secure the windows by
taping them. We have glass-cutting equipment where we can remove the panels of glass, and we were able to pull those two scaffold workers in right where they were. This was a pretty straightforward operation. All
FDNY
the companies worked excellent together, this was a coordinated effort. This is something we train for all the time.” - FDNY
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FDNY NEVER FORGET If you have photos you would like to see in our “Never Forget” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
Every year since 2007 a group of photographers have held a photo shoot for firefighters of their rigs in front of the twin 9-11 beams. This has always been at no charge to the departments, both career and volunteer, to express thanks for the job they do. This year, 186 emergency vehicles from four states gathered at Liberty State Park to gather with their brother first responders for the photo shoot, and to be sure those lost on that day are never forgotten.
Broad Channel FD E-212
BILL TOMPKINS – WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
Broad Channel FD E-210
BILL TOMPKINS – WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
Gerrittsen Beach EMS 4
BILL TOMPKINS – WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM
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2040 State Route 208, Montgomery, NY • Tel: (845) 565-7700
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November, 2020
1015 Cranbury River Road, South Brunswick NJ • Tel: 1-800-800-3959
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