1st Responder New York November Edition

The New York Edition PUBLISHING SINCE 1993

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NOVEMBER, 2014

WRIGHTS CORNERS ROLLS UP ON FULLY ENGULFED BARN

STEPHEN WALLACE

Around 7:39 a.m. on September 10th, the tones went off for Wrights Corners Volunteer Fire Department for the report of a barn fire on Lockport Olcott Road. The dispatcher reported that a neighbor saw smoke and flames, and was unaware if neighbors knew the building was on fire.

- See full story on pages 28

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PAGE 2

November, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

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November, 2014

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November, 2014

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CORPORATE INFORMATION 1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New York edition - Vol. 15 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.

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

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

November, 2014

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November, 2014

1 Ardmore Street • New Windsor, NY 12553

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Rick Billings, Henry Campbell, Chelle Cordero, Lori Hodgkinson, Bob Long, John Malecky, Gordon Wren ••• CORRESPONDENTS

Victor Alcorn • Jeff Ambroz • Jeffrey Arnold • Fred Bacchi Kevin Brautlacht • Cortney Brown • Mike Carey Chris Colletti • Sean Cosgrove • Chris Creighton Peter DeSalvo • Harry D’Onofrio • Allen Epstein Joseph Epstein • Eli Gill • Thomas Godoy • Mike Guarino Jared Gunst • Paul Harrington • Gary Hearn • Ryan Hearn Kevin Heckman • Karen Hinkley • Matt Hodge • Brian Houle Harold Jacobs • Christopher Kalisak • David Kazmierczak Bill Kelly • Tom Kennedy • Fred Kopf • Richard Lindmark Mike McCagg • Barbara Monico • Ron Monteleone Mark Oshinsky • David Ragusa • Bob Root • Sharon Siegel John Smith • Steve Solomonson • John Spaulding Bill Tompkins • Chris Tompkins • Ed Tuffy • Stephen Wallace Mike Waters • Steve White • Lisa Winn • Mike Zaleski

EDITORIAL INFORMATION Join our team of correspondents or columnists! 1st Responder Newspaper welcomes submissions by our readers. Send stories and photos to us at 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. Or, give us a call or send us an e-mail. If using the mail, please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for all submissions you wish to have returned. Publisher reserves the right to refuse any editorial or advertising material submitted.

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CIRCULATION INFORMATION 1st Responder Newspaper is delivered to all fire, rescue, ambulance stations and hospitals. If you do not receive your papers, please contact our circulation department. Home subscriptions are $36 per year.

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GRAPHIC DESIGN/MARKETING 1st Responder News’ graphics team will work with you on your adverA division of: tisement free of charge. Additionally, we offer a complete marketing department for all of your printed needs. Whether they are posters, or single sheet handouts, full color or black and white, no one else delivers the high quality work at our competitive prices.

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In memory of those who gave all 1st Responder Newspaper honors and remembers emergency responders lost in the line of duty Nebraska: Darrell Parker, 56 Rank: Chaplain/Firefighter Incident Date: August 10, 2014 Death Date: August 13, 2014 Fire Department: Fairbury Rural Fire Department Initial Summary: Chaplain/Firefighter Parker died in the hospital several days after the privately owned vehicle he was operating in response to a fire incident left the roadway and struck a tree. The cause of the accident is still under investigation. Officials suspect that Parker may have experienced a medical emergency when he lost control of his vehicle.

Montana: Dave "Chief 5" Anderson, 66 Rank: Fire Chief Incident Date: July 22, 2014 Death Date: August 25, 2014 Fire Department: Fort Shaw Fire Department Initial Summary: Several weeks after being injured in a collision between two Fort Shaw fire trucks responding to a grass fire near Vaughn, Montana, Fire Chief Anderson passed away in Peace Hospice of Great Falls. According to media reports, Montana Highway Patrol said the driver of the other truck, a brush truck, missed a turnoff en route to the fire and was making a U-turn when Anderson crashed into him. The water tender (tanker) truck driven by Anderson tipped on its side and Anderson had to be extricated from the wreck. He was then transported to the hospital by ambulance. Anderson was later transferred to a Billings rehabilitation facility that specializes in traumatic brain injury, and then transferred to Peace Hospice. The driver of the second vehicle involved in the accident was not injured.

New Jersey: Richard Choate, 68 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: September 8, 2014 Death Date: September 8, 2014 Fire Department: Byram Township Fire Deptartment Initial Summary: The Byram Township Fire Department responded to an activated fire alarm incident. Firefighter Choate responded and drove the tanker/tender apparatus to the scene, where he stood-by while personnel investigated.

The fire department cleared the scene shortly thereafter, and he fueled the apparatus upon returning to quarters. Members later reported that Choate appeared tired, but did not express

any complaints. Approximately five hours later, he was found unresponsive inside his personal vehicle, which had run off the road into a wooded area. Police and EMS responded, finding him in cardiac arrest. He was transported to a local hospital with CPR and AED use in progress. He was subsequently pronounced deceased at 1:03 p.m.

Michigan: William Russell “Uncle Will” Wiita, 47 Rank: Assistant Fire Chief Incident Date: September 8, 2014 Death Date: September 8, 2014 Fire Department: Coldsprings-Excelsior Fire and Rescue Station #6 Initial Summary: Approximately three hours after Assistant Fire Chief Wiita responded to a rescue/medical call, Wiita was found deceased at his residence from an apparent heart attack.

Ohio: Kevin J. Ollier, 60 Rank: Firefighter/Paramedic Incident Date: September 4, 2014 Death Date: September 5, 2014 Fire Department: Anderson Township Fire & Rescue Department Initial Summary: Firefighter/Paramedic Ollier passed away from a sudden illness several hours after responding to a smell of smoke call at a nursing home.

North Carolina: John Derek Gupton, 24 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: September 16, 2014 Death Date: September 17, 2014 Fire Department: Justice Rural Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: While en route to a fire alarm, Firefighter Gupton lost control of the 2,500 gallon fire tanker he was operating when the apparatus left the roadway to the right, hit a ditch culvert and overturned. Gupton passed away from injuries sustained in the accident. An additional firefighter, who was a passenger in the apparatus, was treated for injuries and released from a local hospital.

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

November, 2014

Page 7

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November, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

ASHLEY PIPER

Blue Mass held TP

Gowanda battles second house fire in as many weeks The Gowanda Fire Department was toned out for a working structure fire on Allen Street in the village at 6:28 p.m.

It was reported that flames were shooting from the second floor of a two story occupied home.

Gowanda Chiefs 1 and 2 arrived within two minutes to find heavy fire shooting from two second floor windows on the A and D sides of the home, and causing the siding to melt on a second home exposure on the D-side.

Gowanda Quint 6 was first due on scene and deployed two 1.75 inch hand lines and set up for aerial master stream operations.

JUMP TO FILE #092114105

Gowanda Engine 3 arrived and established a water supply from a hydrant near the scene feeding a four inch line to Quint 6 and deploying a two and a half inch line also.

A quick interior attack began, but the evacuation signal was given within minutes as fire conditions increased in the entire second floor with the roof burning through in several spots.

A defensive operation was started with the master stream and

handlines to knock down the main fire. After this, an interior operation was continued to knock out remaining fire in conjunction with horizontal and vertical ventilation.

Assisting Gowanda with equipment and manpower were the Collins and Perrysburg Fire Companies and Gowanda Ambulance Service.

No injuries were reported and a family cat was saved.

Erie County Fire Investigation units were called to the scene. The fire was listed as accidental in nature.

- TIM TWICHELL

City of Newburgh, NY. A Blue Mass was held at St. Francis Church in the City of Newburgh on September 14th at 11 a.m.

Battalion 3 participated with the Knights of Columbus Council #444. The Blue Mass is held each year by the Knights of Columbus to honor firefighters, police officers, EMT's and the armed forces.

JEFF CRIANZA

Wappinger Community Day Parade Members of the Dutchess County Sheriff Office as well as first responders from around the community marched in the Wappinger Community Day Parade.

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November, 2014

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

BOB ROOT

DAVID F.KAZMIERCZAK

Lt. Charles “Chip” McCarthy Remembrance On August 24, 2014, it was five years since the Buffalo Fire Department lost two brothers, Lt. Charles "Chip" McCarthy and Firefighter Jonathan Croom at a fire at 1815 Genesee St. A remembrance service was held at the house of Rescue Co. 1. A wreath was laid and the Greater Buffalo Firefighters Pipes and Drums played for our lost.

Firefighters honor Cornwall boy On August 28, 2014, a boy was tragically struck and killed by a support column in the garage of the home his family was renting in Cornwall, NY. The family rented the home after their New Windsor home was struck by lightning back in June.

During the funeral, Cornwall-on-Hudson Fire Department honored Christian Martinisi, age 6, by providing their antique as an escort for the funeral. The investigation into the tragedy and whether the landlord will be charged is ongoing.

Correspondent Contest Sponsored by First Due Training & Safety Consultants The readers of 1st Responder Newspaper have helped make www.1rbn.com the fastest-growing Fire/Rescue/EMS site on the web. Information comes from our valued correspondents. Each time you post an entry on our website, your name will go into a drawing for a monthly prize. Only web entries are eligible.

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City of Beacon Day Parade Members of Beacon Volunteer Ambulance Corps as well as Beacon, Chelsea, Glenham, Fire Districts all came out on September 28th to march in the Community Day Parade.

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

November, 2014

Page 11

PAGE 12

November, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

CHAPLAIN’S CORNER DIDYMUS MCHUGH

BOB ROOT

Second alarm blaze destroys Newburgh home City of Newburgh, Orange County, NY. On the morning of September 30, 2014, City of Newburgh firefighters were alerted to a fire at 214 Prospect Street. Command arrived to find a working fire in a one story single family home.

Command requested the second alarm for the working fire, requesting mutual aid from West Point and Castle Point as well as all off duty

JUMP TO FILE #093014105

firefighters. Standing by in Newburgh were Coldenham with a ladder and Good-Will with an engine.

Crews immediately went to work with interior, exterior and venting operations.

The fire was soon knocked

down and the investigation unit was requested to the scene. Mutual aid units were released and companies were soon back in service.

No injuries were reported to civilians or firefighters. The investigation into the cause and origin of the fire continues by local officials.

- BOB ROOT

We are all a family, brothers and sisters in emergencyservices.

Someone told me that we are a disfunctional familybut we are a family nonetheless, and we are a tight group.

But let me ask you this, do we really pay attention to ourbrothers and sisters? Can you tell when something isbothering someone on your truck or in your station.

We need to look out for our brothers and sisters so we allcome home from a call, but this also means when we are noton a scene as well. We need to know each other enough tostart seeing differences in behavior. Is someone showing thesigns that critical incident stress is affecting them, or is it (should I even think the words) depression or thoughts of dying by means of suicide? So many of us do not want to eversay or hear the words depression or suicide. I know that theusual response to someone who is experiencing depression is"well get over it" or "just snap out of it".

These are nothelpful words.

There are many things that can get someone to the point ofdepression. We can have family, financial, or health issues.

We may be experiencing effects of critical incident stress or other things. Some medications, that we have to take, or surgery that we have had made cause us to feel depressed.

But if we keep it to ourselves, we wallow in our own self pity and our challenges then have our permission to run our lives. If we keep it and do not vent or ask for help, we put ourselves into our own prison.

To be a true brother, we need to care about each other. When people are not acting their "normal", you may want to ask the person "how are things going?"

Let's face it, we are not the "normal" that society thinks of when they think of normal. We appear to be a little off center but that's okay because that's how emergency services is. Sometimes we need to talk to others that can relate to us in our "normal" state.

One challenge, that we have, is that we are the rescuers. We go into the burning buildings that nobody else would enter.

We go into places of chemical spills, we are used to rescuing everyone else. Sometimes we

have to remember that it is okay for us to ask to be rescued. If you are having a code, can you perform CPR on yourself? So why think that you can handle your depression or suicidal thoughts by yourself.

Remember, we ARE family.

There are people that are willing to listen and help you get the help that you need. Have you tried your department chaplain or the CISM team? The CISM team knows therapists that actually know our culture.

Hopefully, the people with depression will connect with a therapist that can help them. Yes, I know that many times we want to handle everything ourselves but there are times where it is okay to hang up the hero cape and admit that we need help.

According to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, it is estimated that suicide is four times more likely to happen than a line of duty death.

Think on that. What do we see? We all have been exposed to people who have attempted to die via suicide or have died by means of suicide.

There are resources out there.

Serve and Protect is a 24/7/365 crisis line for emergency services, where you can also speak to therapists or chaplains (serveprotect.org or 615-373-8000). But you also have the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (suicidepreventionlifeline.org or 800-273-TALK (8255)). Go onto the website for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and look at the signs so that you can notice some of the warning signs or review the information for yourself, if you are having challenges.

Many of us are afraid of speaking the words "depression" or "suicide", but by not speaking these topics does not mean that they do not exist. We use thermal imaging cameras to see hotspots in buildings to prevent a fire in buildings.

We do not have the TIC's to see what is going on in people's minds.

We need to ask them and if we are the one going through the depression or having the thoughts of hurting ourselves, we need to not be proud and keep it all to ourselves.

We were brave enough to join the fire department in the first place, we need to be brave enough to ask for help or help somone else get the proper help.

Instead of getting a CPR save or pulling someone out of a building and getting a save, how would you feel about saving a brother or sister? We are family. Don't be afraid to discuss this issue, the life you save may be your own.

Stay safe.

Visit us on www.1rbn.com LOCAL 589

November, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

Cold Spring Fire Company No.1 earns Life Safety Achievement Award Cold Spring Fire Company No. 1 was recently presented with a Life Safety Achievement Award for its fire prevention accomplishments in 2013 by the National Association of State Fire Marshals Fire Research and Education Foundation (NASFM Foundation) in partnership with Grinnell Mutual Reinsurance Company. The award was announced by Butch Browning, president of the NASFM Foundation.

“The heroic efforts of our local fire service aren’t limited to rushing into burning buildings to save families. They also present educational information to local schools and other community groups to make sure people know how to respond to fires and how to prevent them in the first place,” said Alan Clark, assistant vice president of Special Investigations for Grinnell Mutual.

“The Life Safety Achievement Award recognizes fire departments for their fire prevention programs that have been proven to save lives year after year.”

Since 1994, the Life Safety Achievement Award has recognized local fire prevention efforts that have contributed to reducing the number of lives lost in residential fires.

Cold Spring Fire Company No.1 is one of 142 fire departments

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across the United States to receive the award this year for recording zero fire deaths in 2013 or reducing fire deaths by at least 10 percent during the year.

In addition, award recipients documented active and effective fire prevention programs as well as a clear commitment to reducing the number of house fires in the community.

Although residential fires in the U.S. account for only 20 percent of all fires, they result in 80 percent of all fire deaths. The NASFM Foundation is committed to reducing that number.

“Experience tells us that fire prevention activity and public education can significantly reduce life and property loss from residential fires,” Browning said.

“Prevention and education are very cost effective compared to the traditional approach of relying on fire suppression. The Life Safety Achievement Award recognizes fire departments for their fire prevention efforts and encourages them to continually improve upon those efforts.”

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November, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

JOHN SPAULDING

Churchville Fire Department rescues ATV rider Riga, NY. A conductor on a westbound CSX freight train reported what he thought was a motor vehicle accident on the railroad tracks at Savage Road in Riga late Friday night, September 5th.

First responders could not locate the accident initially, and later found the ATV about a 1/2 mile away. A CSX maintenance worker working nearby heard the call and found three other ATV's near the unconscious ATV rider and they soon left leaving the victim in the darkness.

The ATV struck a sign post and rolled more than 100 yards down the gravel side road ripping the riders helmet from his head.

JUMP TO FILE #090614100 GARY HEARN

The first responders had a difficult time getting responders to the victim using SUV's and pickup trucks to access and transport the male in critical condition.

Churchville Ambulance and Monroe paramedics transported him to Strong Memorial Hospital.

The Monroe County Sheriffs Office is investigating the cause of the crash. Train traffic was halted for a couple hours while the investigation was conducted.

- JOHN SPAULDING

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Multi-car accident in Troy City of Troy’s Fire Department was dispatched to a three car accident with injuries near Hudson Valley Community College. Firefighters had to deal with heavy traffic while trying to operate on scene. Firefighters had to backboard and remove one person from the car due to their injuries. The cars were removed from the scene a short time later and the road was opened back up.

House destroyed by three alarm blaze in Goshen At approximately 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, September 14th, the Goshen Fire Department was toned out for a reported working fire at 2 Avalon Dr. The Orange County 911 Center advised responding units that JUMP TO FILE# multiple calls were 091514100 taken on this.

The Goshen chief arrived on scene and confirmed a working structure fire in a two and a half story private dwelling fully involved. He requested a second alarm response and second alarm tanker task force.

Additional mutual aid was called to fill in for standbys at different departments.

Throughout the incident, standby companies were called to the scene for relief. The total alarms went to a third.

Departments at the scene included Goshen, Chester, Washingtonville (initial FAST team, but put to work), New Hampton, Campbell Hall, Circleville, Mechanicstown, Pocatello, Maybrook, Silver Lake, Florida, and Warwick (FAST). Walden stood by at Maybrook. Salisbury Mills stood by at Washingtonville. The City of Middletown, Pine Island, Slate Hill, and Montgomery stood by at Goshen. Mobile Life's SORT team and Goshen EMS were at the scene for rehab. 36-4, 36-11 and 36-109 also responded.

The cause and origin of the fire are under investigation by local officials. No injuries were reported at the scene.

- THOMAS GODOY THOMAS GODOY

November, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

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Man down on subway tracks A special assignment was dispatched in Buffalo for a person who fell off a subway platform to the tracks at the LRRT Allen Hospital station at 929 Main St. Engine Co. 21, Ladder Co. 6, Rescue Co. 1 and the 3rd Battalion Chief of the 4th Platoon were dispatched. The man was brought up and then transported to the hospital. The N.F.T.A. Transit Police were also dispatched.

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Trench rescue team activated The Colonie Village Trench Rescue Team was deployed to Saratoga County for a dirt biker, who was biking alone and got stuck in a mud pit. The biker was stuck for two hours before someone found him. At that point, a person tried to pull him out. Unfortunately, that person did not realize that the victim was stuck up to his hips in mud and three feet of water.

After not being able to get the person out, 911 was called and the Colonie Village Fire Company was alerted for their trench rescue team. The trench rescue team from Momentive Performance Materials were called on to come remove the trapped person. Firefighters had to drain the water and dig the person out of the mud. Colonie EMS stabilized the trapped person. Crews worked for about two hours to remove the trapped biker. At 9:30 p.m., he was removed and taken to the hospital to be evaluation.

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PAgE 15

PAGE 16

November, 2014

MUTUAL AID GORDON WREN

On a hot, muggy summer evening, a resident, residing in a former one family home that had been illegally converted to single room occupancy, experienced continuous failure of her window unit air conditioner. She repeatedly went to the basement and reset the breaker in the panel box.

The last time she did this, she went back to her room and found a working fire. She alerted all the other residents, all residing in single rooms throughout the building and dialed 911.

The local volunteer fire department responded quickly and found heavy fire on the first floor, extending up the stairway to the second floor. A fast knock-down took place. However when the firefighters, as part of their overhaul, entered the attic, up a set of very narrow stairs, they found mattresses all over the floor where several adult men were residing.

This fire took place around 9:30 on a Saturday night. If the fire had taken place at 3:00 a.m., and the illegal attic was occupied, there is a very strong possibility that fatalities would have taken place since there was no second means of egress.

A year or so later, the owner had repaired all the fire damage and rented out the premises, once again.

Coming home from a fire late one night, I noticed a light coming from the tiny attic window and filed another complaint.

Recently, I was driving with one of the inspectors and mentioned that I could not believe that the attic was again occupied. The inspector stated, "I can guarantee that the attic is vacant."

I asked how he could make such a statement with such certainty and he informed me that he had inspected it four days ago, and the landlord showed him the vacant space and even installed a sheet of plywood, screwed into the door frame leading to the attic.

The inspector then invited me to go inside and take a look.

The tenants let us in and we climbed to the second floor. I noted the plywood with two chairs up against it, but the screws had been removed. We pulled the plywood away and entered the attic area. The attic space that had been totally vacant four days before, was now occupied with single beds, twin beds and bunk beds for children.

The inspector, who is a dedicated professional, was shocked

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

and angry at the landlord. It appears that these types of scenarios take place on a regular basismostly in areas where there is little or no vigorous enforcement program in place. In other words, if there is no strong deterrent, financial or other; individuals will continue to place tenants and firefighters in danger in order to collect rent money from illegally converted and dangerous buildings. In this case, summonses were issued but there were no substantial penalties levied.

The going rate for a small bedroom with shared bathroom/kitchen facilities is $125 per week- cash. Some of these converted one family homes have single rooms constructed in cellars, subdivided first, second floors, attics, garages and even sheds. The average number of rooms seems to be 10-12, with some far exceeding that number.

Many landlords own multiple buildings. When you receive $500. per month times the number of rooms, it becomes evident just how lucrative this underground business is!

Just last night, in my department, our firefighters found a set of stairs leading to a basement that was only 12" wide. We are sending our firefighters into maze-like conditions.

If the municipal leaders do not support the code enforcement efforts, more illegal work will take place- we see entire sections of communities taken over by these landlords and a mass exodus of the honest property owners.

While working on this column, I received an e-mail from a young, intelligent line officer, that says a great deal- "A big issue is that every single fine asked by the village is either dismissed or brought down to a very insignificant number by the judge. It doesn't encourage people to comply in the future. One man avoided going to the Planning Board for over a year for work he was doing, after repeatedly being contacted by village personnel. His punishment? Just pay the original permit fee?!" A very timely and accurate statement.

Unless strict inspections and enforcement takes place, the bad guys will continue to ignore the codes/zoning, ruin neighborhoods and endanger lives. We need to send a strong message like a local judge did this week when he said, "In the past the policy was "Do the deed and beg for forgiveness" now, he states; "Do the deed, then pay for forgiveness!"

As a fire service, we need to put pressure on our elected officials and their prosecuting attorneys, to show compassion when appropriate, but go for serious penalties when justified.

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November, 2014

PAGE 17

DAVID F.KAZMIERCZAK

High rise assignment Buffalo, NY. Firefighters of the 3rd Battalion 4th Platoon were called out for a high-rise assignment at 245 Delaware Ave. for a reported fire on the eighth floor. Four engines, three ladders and the rescue were dispatched. Engine Co. 2 radioed light smoke and Ladder Co. 2 forced the door. The fire turned out to be food on the stove and after ventilation, all companies were returned. Division Chief John Magovero was in command.

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PAGE 18

November, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

The heavily damaged car

Car crashes into tree and burst into flames The City of Troy was dispatched to a Delta traffic accident with entrapment and the car was on fire. The first arriving unit was a Rensselaer County Sheriff deputy, who rushed to the burning car and radioed for backup.

He pried the door open and pulled the driver from the burning car. Troy Fire arrived shortly after and pulled a handline and doused the fire.

Troy firefighters quickly packaged the driver of the car and rushed her to the hospital with two additional medics on board.

The car also struck multiple other objects including a parked

JUMP TO FILE #100114102

car, fence and a tree. The force from the car hitting the tree sent the car washer container through a wooden fence into the neighbor’s garage. The front end of the car was wrapped around the tree from the force of the impact.

The accident shutdown the area for a few hours while crews remained on scene to remove the car and damaged property.

JEFFREY ARNOLD

Fire at Lakeville McDonald’s Lakeville, NY. On Sunday morning, September 28, at 10:30 a.m., Lakeville, Livonia and Hemlock Fire Departments responded to a fryer fire at the Lakeville McDonald's, 5965 Big Tree Rd. Fire units arrived and found smoke coming from the restaurant, with employees and customers evacuated from the building. The fire was brought quickly under control, with the building suffering no structural damage. Livingston County Emergency Management, Livingston County Sheriff's Office and Livonia EMS also responded to the scene.

Geneseo firefighters were placed on stand by during the incident.

- JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER LARRY KENSINGER / NC NEWS SERVICE

Porch fire in Watervliet The Watervliet Fire Department with mutual aid from Green Island and the Watervliet Arsenal responded to 219 6th Ave for a reported structure fire. On arrival, crews had a working porch fire. Firefighters pulled a handline and knocked down the minor fire. Firefighters had to pull the front of the porch apart to make sure there were no hidden hot spots. The damage to the home was very minor and all the residents were able to make it out with no injuries. The fire is under investigation at this time.

Norampac and Greenpac industrial plant fire The Niagara Falls Fire Department and several area volunteer fire companies and Niagara Falls Air Reserve were on the scene of a large fire at the Norampac Industries and Greenpac Mill facilities on Packard Road in Niagara Falls, NY. The fire began about 2:15 p.m. and was driven by the high winds. It’s been reported that what are burning were cardboard bales. So far no injuries are reported.

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

November, 2014

PAGE 19

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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com

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Washingtonville, Orange County, NY. At approximately 11:30 p.m. on Tuesday, September 16, 2014, Monell Engine Company was alerted for an overturned vehicle near 170 Woodcock Mountain Road.

JUMP TO FILE #091714107

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An investigation into the cause of the accident is underway by local officials.

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PAGE 20

November, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

JIM DELANEY DAVID F.KAZMIERCZAK

Structure fire for Buffalo Buffalo, NY. Firefighters of the 4th Battalion 2nd Platoon were called out to battle a structure fire at 554 Fargo Ave. on the City's West Side on Thursday, September 4, 2014. A one and three quarter inch hand line was used and damage was minor. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Seven families displaced Endicott Fire Platoon 3 under the command of Lt. Dave Abell, responded to 8 Hillside Court at 6;30 a.m. Sunday, September 7, 2014 for a reported building fire.

First arriving crews found heavy fire on the floor of the apartment building, which prompted an alarm.

All off duty Endicott fire personnel, along with neighboring departments responded to assist the initial on duty crew of four personnel in extinguishing the fast moving fire.

Upon arrival at the scene, Chief Joe Griswold assumed command.

The fire spread through a common

JUMP TO FILE #091014128

attic and subsequently entered an adjoining building before being extinguished.

Both buildings had been evacuated and seven families will not be able to return to their apartments due to fire, smoke and water damage.

The Red Cross is assisting these families. Several pets including a dog, four cats, a boa constrictor, and a bird were rescued from the blaze with no civilian injuries reported.

One fire investigator was taken

from the scene, treated and released. The cause of the fire is being investigated by the Broome County Fire Investigation team and the cause remains under investigation.

The Endicott Fire Department was assisted on scene by the following fire departments: Endwell,Vestal, West corners, Union Center, and West Endicott.

Also assisting were Endicott Police, Endicott Bomb Squad NYSEG Endicott Municipal Light, Union Ambulance, The American Red Cross, and Endicott Auxiliary Police.

- JAMES DELANEY

DAVID F.KAZMIERCZAK

Vehicle fire spreads to cottage Second alarm at pizzeria in Florida

THOMAS GODOY

Buffalo, NY. Firefighters of the 3rd Battalion 2nd Platoon were called out to battle a structure fire at 226 Woltz Ave. on the City's East Side on September 10, 2014. Companies reported heavy smoke from quarters and fire alarm began receiving multiple phone calls. It turned out to be a vehicle fire in the yard of 226 Woltz Ave. and spread to the rear cottage of 224 1/2 Woltz Ave. along with the back of 226 Woltz Ave. Engine Co. 3 reported a hydrant removed by the water department on Sycamore St. and they had to dump their bed of five inch to hit a plug on the next block. Firefighters used two-one and three quarter inch hand lines and 20 feet of ladders to bring the fire under control. No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation. Division Chief Mike Biasillo was in command.

Florida, Orange County, NY. At approximately 8 p.m. on September 16, 2014, the Florida Fire Department was alerted to a possible structure fire at 27 N. Main Street, with reports of smoke coming from the roof. The location of the fire was approximately 2,000 feet from Florida's station Florida chief's arrived on scene to find a working fire with smoke showing from a three story mixed occupied building. The first floor consists of an office and pizza restaurant. The second and third floors were occupied apartments.

At that time, the chief re-

JUMP TO FILE #091714101

quested a second alarm, bringing in Warwick as the FAST team, an engine from Goshen, and a standby engine from Pine Island.

Warwick was quickly put to work with their tower as the fire rapidly progressed.

Additional mutual aid was requested under the second alarm, bringing in Washingtonville's FAST, Goshen tower (above the second alarm), and Pine Island's engine to the scene.

During this time, an aggressive interior attack was underway as fire was breaking through the third floor and roof. An evacuation tone was sent and exterior operations commenced. Washingtonville's FAST was put to work shortly after and additional mutual aid was requested bringing Slate Hill's FAST, a Warwick engine, and Johnson engine to standby.

The fire was knocked down at approximately 10 p.m. and declared under control around 11 p.m.

- THOMAS GODOY

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

November, 2014

Page 21

Reciprocity EMS ISSUES Chelle Cordero

We are a transient society. If you are in EMS, whether paid or volunteer, and moving, looking for a better job, or simply looking for extra involvement in your community, many of us want to keep those hard earned certifications up to date.

If you are moving across state lines, your current certs may not help you to stay involved – there is this thing called reciprocity and some states will make it easy for you to work or volunteer in your new digs. Contact your state Bureau of Emergency Medical Services for details on what you have to do to remain working as an EMT or paramedic.

“The New York State Department of Health, Bureau of Emergency Medical Services (BEMS) considers granting reciprocal certification to individuals who hold certification within the fifty (50) states and from the District of Columbia. NYS does not grant reciprocity to individuals who have obtained certification from other countries or the US territories, unless they have a current National Registry of EMT’s (NREMT) certification.” (Information Packet for New York State EMT Reciprocity) There are items that NYS BEMS will review before granting state certification such as age, if there is a criminal background, and if the applicant has passed an NREMT examination within the previous 18 months.

Upon review and specified guidelines, the Bureau of EMS may be able to grant reciprocity to a member or veteran of the United States military who received training from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, or to members of the National Park Services.

Applicants seeking EMT certification in surrounding states (to NYS) like New Jersey will need to provide proof of current certification from another state plus records of any state’s certification they ever held and proof of current CPR. Upon approval, these applicants will be permitted to take a NJ refresher course in order to obtain NJ certification.

Reciprocity applicants validly certified/licensed as an “EMT” (2009 National Educational Standards) from any state/US territory and/or the NREMT will be permitted to obtain a New Jersey EMT certification without having to complete the refresher course or the state written examination although they are still required to complete the verification process.

If you are interested in getting Pennsylvania EMT or paramedic certification and are currently certified in another state, you can apply to the Eastern EMS Council for reciprocity.

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You’ll need to supply proof of your current certification, a criminal background check and a letter from a local PA sponsoring agency (one you will be affiliated with).

Connecticut considers applicants who have current certification as an EMT by the National Registry of EMTs or by a state or territory maintaining certification requirements equal to or higher than those of this state, or applicants who have current valid license/certification in good

standing as an EMT in Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island or Vermont.

Massachusetts requires out-ofstate EMT (Basic level) to successfully complete the NREMT EMT examination process; the applicant can then apply to the state for local certification.

Out-of-state paramedics applying in MA need to submit current certification/licensure along with previous certifications (from all

relevant states ), a processing fee, proof of NREMT completion at their level, and ACLS/BCLS course completions in order to apply for reciprocity.

To be eligible for Vermont EMS licensure, you must hold a current National Registry of EMTs certification for the level at which you are applying. You must also be affiliated with an EMS agency licensed at this level or with a medical facility that requires you to hold this license.

Although National Certification (by itself) is NOT a license to practice, more and more states are making it a requirement if you are looking for reciprocity in a new state.

NREMT certification helps to ensure a uniform standard of care across the nation. You can go online to https://www.nremt.org to learn how to receive your NREMT certification in either the EMT basic or Paramedic level.

PAGE 22

November, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

JOHN SMITH

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Bill Johnson Teaching The Student advisers about Fire Safety In The Dorms

College fire safety in Cobleskill With the students going back to college in the next few days, the Cobleskill Fire Department held a fire safety and prevention training night with the staff and student advisers of the dorm rooms at Cobleskill Community College.

Bill Johnson, the head of the Fire prevention program at Cobleskill Fire Department, talked about the dangers of what could happen if there is a fire in the student dorms and how to handle a

JUMP TO FILE #090514122

situation if they encounter a fire and how to react to it.

Bill and the other firefighters went over what students can do to prevent the different type of fires.

Bill Johnson talked about how to make it easier for firefighters during an emergency situation for accountability.

The fire department also had on hand gear for the staff to try on and get a feel for what firefighters have to wear.

This program is part of the Cobleskill Fire Department’s multi operation fire safety and prevention program created by Bill Johnson to keep the community of Cobleskill safe.

Fatal fire in Busti At 2:07 p.m. on September 18, the Busti Fire Department was dispatched to 4835 Kortwright Road after initial reports said people were still inside. Car 311 reported a working structure fire and requested mutual aid to the scene. Fire departments from Chautauqua County were alerted to assist Busti, including Panama, Ashville, Lakewood, Chautauqua, Fluvanna, Ellery Center rehab trailer, Kiantone, Frewsburg, as well as Bemus Point and Chautauqua for their ambulances. Fire departments from Warren County (PA) included Bear Lake, Youngsville, Lander and Sugar Grove. The cause of the fire was determined to be children playing with matches.

- JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Car fire in the woods in Chili Chili, NY. A '99 Dodge Dakota failed to stay on SR490 WB (a divided highway) west of Exit 5, and burst into fire.

Although the driver's door was pinned, the victim JUMP TO FILE # managed to escape 080713101 out the passenger door without injury.

You can see the white sparks and fire as magnesium components being extinguished with water lit up quite brightly.

An additional engine was dispatched for extra water.

The Monroe County Fire Bureau was investigating the cause.

The operator of the vehicle was taken into custody by the Monroe County Sheriffs Office.

DAVID F.KAZMIERCZAK

City of Tonawanda remembrance

- JOHN SPAULDING

JOHN SPAULDING

The vehicle was fully involved when the ďŹ re department arrived.

The City of Tonawanda held a 9/11 remembrance at their firehouse on the morning of September 11, 2014. The ceremony took place at 09:45 a.m. A wreath was laid and a candle was lit in remembrance of those lost that tragic morning. The chaplain said a closing prayer and the department provided refreshments for the attendees. A cross section of America and how brothers and sisters remember the fallen as tributes like this one were held hundreds of times in city's and small towns throughout the United States.

November, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

PAgE 23

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Multi-vehicle accident in front of mall Town of Newburgh, Orange County, NY. At approximately 11:30 a.m. on September 17th, Winona Lake Engine Company was alerted for a four car MVA on Route 300 in front of the Newburgh Mall. Upon arrival, command found one overturned vehicle and requested EMS for multiple patients. Three patients were transported to St. Luke's Cornwall Hospital.

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PAGE 24

November, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

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The Rensselaerville Volunteer Fire Company celebrated it's 75th anniversary on September 6th at the Carey Institute for Global Good in Rensselaerville. The all-day event featured firematic competitions between Berne, East Berne, Rensselaerville, Medusa, and Tri Village Volunteer Fire Companies.

Firefighters also demonstrated the jaws of life for vehicle extrication. The event also featured an appearance of the MacBoston 18 Memorial Truck to Fallen Firefighters.

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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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com.

DAVID F.KAZMIERCZK

House fire with extension

FRANK ROBINSON

The Glasco Fire District operates a 2009 Ferrara 2000/2500 Pumper Tanker.

Buffalo, NY. Firefighters of the 3rd Battalion 1st Platoon were called out to battle a structure fire at 704 Perry St. in the city's Larkenville section on Wednesday evening September 10, 2014. Firefighters arrived to heavy fire from the two and a half story frame dwelling. The house next door also had extension.

Multiple one and three quarter inch hand lines and ground ladders were used. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

One firefighter was treated for injuries. Damage was extensive. Division Chief James LaMacchia was in command.

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

November, 2014

Page 25

PAGE 26

November, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Colonie Firefighters Hitting Hot Spots In The Mini Plaza JEFFREY ARNOLD

Mini plaza fire in West Albany Rollover MVA in Livonia Multiple calls came in for 112 Everett Road in the West Albany Fire District for flames coming from the roof of the Anthony’s Place-Plaza.

The first arriving unit had heavy fire coming from the building and called for the Signal 30.

Firefighters from West Albany, Shaker Road, and Colonie Village Fire Companies battled the heavily involved building.

JUMP TO FILE #091514123

Fire crews took out the front plate glass windows of the building and made a very aggressive interior attack driving back the flames.

Truck 9’s crew along with firefighters from West Albany went to work venting the roof and attacking the fire that made its way into

the roof.

Firefighters had the fire knocked down and under control in about 20 minutes. While crews were hitting hot spots, part of the wall on the outside of the building came down.

No firefighters were injured and the fire is under investigation.

Livonia, NY. Shortly before midnight on September 18th, Livonia Fire and EMS responded to a rollover MVA at the intersection of Main and Linden streets in the village.

The driver of the vehicle was taken by ambulance to Thompson Hospital in Canandaigua.

JUMP TO FILE #091914128

The cause of the crash was under investigation by the Livingston County Sheriff's Office.

- JEFFREY ARNOLD

- JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com.

CHRIS TOMPKINS WWW.BTIFIREPHOTOS.COM

Orangeburg

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Working fire in City of Troy The long tone dropped for Box 624 for an alarm of fire at 1256 5th Ave. The caller stated the back of the building was on fire. On arrival, Car 4 called the Signal 30 and stated he had a working fire in the rear of the building. Shortly after the arriving, crews pulled in two hand lines into the building and knocked down the fire. It was quickly placed under control. Fire crews remained on scene for an hour overhauling and investigating the fire. Firefighters were able to remove the residents from the home without injury.

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Tuxedo Engine 1 and Engine 2

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

November, 2014

Page 27

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PAGE 28

November, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

STEPHEN WALLACE

Wrights Corners rolls up on fully engulfed barn Around 7:39 a.m. on September 10th, the tones went off for Wrights Corners Volunteer Fire Department for the report of a barn fire on Lockport Olcott Road. The dispatcher reported that a neighbor saw smoke and flames, and is unaware if neighbors knew the building was on fire.

Zone 3 was on scene in moments and called a fully engulfed working fire with propane explosions. Wrights Corners was out the door and rolling to the scene just moments behind the deputy. The sky was a blaze as fire ripped, at times, hundreds of feet in the air and the black smoke rolled into the sky.

The building was engulfed and quickly eating at an SUV that was

JUMP TO FILE #091014125

parked in the path of the leaping flames. Fire Instructor/Firefighter JJ McKnight led the charge fully geared and pulling the hand line with Firefighter Larry Stanton Jr. As Stanton and McKnight got to the front of the building, another load of compressed gas let lose causing a fire storm and engulfing surrounding trees. The firefighters battled the blaze, putting out the rear of the SUV that was parked by the structure.

Miller Hose was called to assist with the attack and pulling another hand line. As the second line was charged and hit the side of the barn,

McKnight and Stanton tried to move closer, when a number of small pops went off, sounding very much like ammunition.

Wrights Corners had it's senior pump operators and plenty of feed lines to hydrants.

Crews working together, pulling hoses, quick attacks, and endless water along with scene control kept this fire from getting to the nearby home.

The Niagara County Sheriffs Office Senior Road Captain Bruce Elliott was called to the scene and the Department ID CSI unit. The fire is under investigation.

No firefighters were hurt battling this working fire.

- STEPHEN WALLACE

WHERE ARE THEY NOW? If you have photos you would like to see in our Where are they Now? feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.

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KEN SNYDER

This 1981 Mack LTI 106' once served the Cornwall, NY FD as T-402. It is now privately owned.

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

November, 2014

Page 29

PAGE 30

November, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

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

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Troy firefighters resting on the back of the engine after a busy night.

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Colonie Village Fire Company Firefighter Flying The American Flag

PAUL'S PICS 4 YOU PHOTOGRAPHY LLC

Maybrook Engine Co. # 1 Celebrates 100 Years of Service

DAVID F.KAZMIERCZAK

Buffalo firefighters Engine Co.32 3rd Platoon.

JOHN SPAULDING

East Avon Assistant Chief Jeff Faugh discharges his duties as a command officer.

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

November, 2014

Page 31

Heroes Realty introduces Heroes Certifi fie ed Homes!

Primarily servicing the fire, rescue, EMS, police and military community, Heroes Realty Inc., has announced the launch of an exciting new program called Heroes Certified Homes.

Negotiating on behalf of its clients, Heroes Realty works very hard to provide benefits and incentives exclusively to their customers looking to purchase or rent a new home or apartment.

From builders who are proud to offer discounted pricing and added amenities on new construction projects, to real estate agents and home sellers who are willing to offer concessions to show their appreciation to the heroes in their communities, the Heroes Certified Homes promises to be a ground breaking initiative as it grows across the country.

If you're a member of the emergency services or military community and interested in purchasing a new home or in need of a home or apartment to rent, please contact Heroes Realty today to learn what features and benefits you qualify for. There is absolutely no charge to emergency services or military for this service.

Market Your Property For Free!

If you are a builder, a home seller, or a real estate agent looking for powerful, national marketing exposure for your listing at no charge, contact Heroes Realty today to discuss how you can qualify to make it a Heroes Certified Home.

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info@HeroesRealty.com - www.HeroesRealty.com

This Month’s Featured Certified Homes Heroes Mortgage Program The Chatham Cape

The Mansfield

$259,000 $222,500 Yarosz Construction offering Heroes affordable price, plus $1,500 credit back at closing!

Located in Montague, New Jersey, these homes will be situated on a beautiful oneacre, corner property selected exclusively for the police, fire, rescue, EMS and military customers of Heroes Realty.

Yarosz Construction Company which has been serving the tri-state area since 1987, has teamed writh Heroes Realty to offer these beautiful homes to Heroes. Yarosz Construction has an outstanding reputation

of building quality homes that are built to last.

In addition to these two models, there are also additional ranch and cape style homes available to choose from.

For more information about the amenities in these custom built homes and to see the floor plans for each, please contact Heroes Realty at 877-541-HERO (4376).

If you are a member of the emergency services community and are currently paying more than 4.25% interest on your mortgage, give us a call or email today for a free analysis to see if you can benefit from our program. Please act quickly before interest rates rise again.

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Wallington - 2 FAMILY. Each unit features kitchen/dining room, living room, 2 bedrooms and full bath. Full Basement. 2 Car detached Garage!! asking $299,000

Passaic - Nice Single Family Cape features 4 Bedrooms and 3 baths!! Many updates. A must see.

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Investment cash flow or Owner Occupy and collect a rent. Asking $275,000

Passaic - Commercial with great opportunity to own your own store front and collect income. Located on busy business district, 3 store fronts, separate utilities. Asking $305,000

Wallington - Free standing banquet facility plus parking lot. Full interior/exterior renovation. Access to obtain liquor license; possible option to lease. Turn key. Asking $599,000

PAGE 32

November, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

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

BILL TOMPKINS, WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM

HEATHER PILLSWORTH

Cragsmoor took home second place for Out of County Best Appearing Men’s De- Thiells, NY partment at the Orange County Volunteer Firemen’s Association Parade

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

HEATHER PILLSWORTH

Members from Rural Grove and Cobleskill Fire Departments holding the 2014 trophy at the Fonda Fair’s Firefighter Competition

Plattekill Fire Department won the Best Appearing Men’s Out of County Fire Department in the Orange County Volunteer Firemen’s Association Parade

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER BILL TOMPKINS, WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM

Orangeburg, NY

Hagaman Fire Department at the Fonda Fair

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

November, 2014

PAge 33

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

NYSAFC

NYSAFC remembers Past Director Alfred S. Munger NYSAFC is saddened to announce the loss of Chief Alfred S. Munger, who passed away on September 11, 2014. He served as a member of the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs board of directors from 1981-1992.

Munger joined the Little Falls Fire Department (Herkimer County) in 1950 and led the department as chief from 1967 until his retirement in 1983. He was also an EMT and certified instructor for many years.

A life member of NYSAFC, Munger joined the association in 1968. Prior to being elected to the board of directors, he served on the Resolutions, Legislative, and Paid Chiefs Committees. Munger was actively involved in the development of NYSAFC’s After the Fire guide, which was created to assist residents following a fire in the home.

Munger was a past president of the Herkimer County Fire Advisory Board, Herkimer County Fire

JUMP TO FILE #092614111

Chiefs Association, and Herkimer County Volunteer Fireman’s Association.

He was a charter member of the Herkimer County Arson Task Force, a member of the International Association of Arson Investigators, and a charter member of the IAAI New York state chapter.

Munger was honored as "New York State Fireman of the Year" and received numerous commendations throughout his fire service career.

He was also an active member and volunteer with numerous community organizations in Little Falls.

Munger was a veteran of World War II and the recipient of a European African Middle Eastern Service Medal and a Good Conduct Medal.

Who needs to laugh more than the Fire Companies ---the first responders who deal with dangerous circumstances each and every day?

There’s an innovative concept for fund-raising developed by Joey Novick, who is a stand-up comedian and the Fire Commissioner in his hometown: Stand-up comedy shows.

Fire companies can get much-needed laughs and profit financially as well.

Novick's company, ComedyWorks, provides all-star headline comedians from HBO, Comedy Central, Showtime, Last Comic Standing, and the Tonight Show.

Novick’s been producing comedy shows since 1977, and has experience producing shows with such comedians as Jerry Seinfeld, Rosie O’Donnell, Larry The Cable Guy, and Tim Allen.

"The comedians were very funny, and very professional," wrote Mark Bruhmuller, Fire Chief of the Churchtown Fire Company of New York. “Joey Novick did an excellent job. Everybody loves to laugh, and it's a great deal of fun."

ComedyWorks produces more than 300 shows a year, almost 150 of those for emergency service organizations. The money these shows can

VENDOR TIDBITS Notes from the emergency service business community

raise varies, depending on things like the number of tickets sold, how they're priced, the amount spent on promotion and whether food and drink are available.

"Mostly companies produce shows in their own facilities, which may hold 300–400 people," says Novick.

"We'll put together a show for them that will bring in comedians from major comedy clubs, with a headliner from HBO, Comedy Central, or the Tonight Show. The feature performer will be someone who's headlined the comedy circuit: Catch a Rising Star, the Improv, the Comedy Store. The host of the show will be a comedian who's very high-energy, like a gameshow host, to get the audience warmed up. A triple headliner show!”

The Somerset Fire Company of New Jersey produces two fundraisers a year through ComedyWorks.

"We've done about ten shows so far, and it's been great," says Mike Rein-

beck, who coordinates the shows for the 65-member volunteer department.

"A friend of mine who had used Joey told me, 'This guy books really good acts.' So, we did the first show, everything was great, and we've been doing shows with Joey ever since."

"I find their people to be very funny," agrees Adam Hubney, chief of the Atlantic Highlands Volunteer Fire Department in New Jersey, which books comedians through ComedyWorks for its annual dinner.

"We have a professional comedy club in our county, and the quality is just as good."

Comedy Works provides a 30-page ‘How-To’ guide that assists organizations through the comedy show production and warns of mistakes to avoid. "We make sure they follow everything in the guide," says Novick. "If a company has never done this before, it gives you everything from you need to know. We make sure that things get done right.

Clients who follow the guide always do very well and tend to make money.”

For information on Comedy Works, call 1 (888) 782-4589, go to www.comedyworks.org or e-mail joeynovick@earthlink.net.

Comedyworks Entertainment!

Stand-up Comedy Show Fund-raising Comedians from HBO, Showtime, Comedy Central, Last Comic Standing, The Tonight Show

- NYSAFC

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PAGE 34

November, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

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

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Selkirk Fire Department

MIKE CAREY

Cohoes Firefighter Brian Bullock

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Knox Fire Department

JEFF CRIANZA

East Fishkill Fire Department Honor Guard around Charter Life Member Robert O'Dell. He has been a member of EFFD for 60 years.

MIKE CAREY

Watervliet Firefighter Jim Strock

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

November, 2014

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Page 35

PAGE 36

November, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

New York

VENDOR SPOTLIGHT

LOSAPs & Divorce, A LOSAP Benefit is not Subject to a DRO/QDRO A Length of Service Award Program (LOSAP) is often referred to as a pension. Although a LOSAP is similar to an IRS qualified pension plan in that it provides a sponsor-paid benefit at retirement or entitlement age, it is NOT a qualified plan, nor is it a non-qualified deferred compensation plan. In fact, it is not a pension plan at all, under the Internal Revenue Code. It is probably most accurately described as a plan of deferred payment.

For this reason, and others described in this article, a LOSAP cannot recognize an assignment to a former spouse under a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO), like a private tax-qualified retirement plan does, or the similar Domestic Relations Order (DRO), that applies to governmental plans, such as the New York State Retirement System.

When a volunteer is going through the divorce process, the volunteer’s LOSAP, like the volunteer’s tax-qualified retirement plan, is generally considered a marital asset. After the divorce, the parties may request that the court issue a DRO/QDRO in order to assign a portion of the qualified retirement plan earned during the marriage to the ex-spouse.

Sometimes, the parties also ask the court to issue a DRO/QDRO for the LOSAP. Unfortunately, there are times when Penflex receives a completed and signed DRO/QDRO that do not apply to

LOSAP. We must then inform the parties involved that the order is not acceptable.

We hope that this article will help attorneys and/or volunteers and their exspouses understand why this is true, and take the alternative steps proposed to avoid this result.

In many cases, state-specific law requires the government sponsor of a LOSAP to fund the LOSAP through contributions into a trust fund. In order to prevent the LOSAP benefit from being includible in the income of the volunteer before it is eligible for payment, the type of trust utilized is a grantor trust (also referred to as a rabbi trust). With this type of trust, assets reserved to pay LOSAP benefits remain assets of the sponsor and do not belong to the LOSAP participants until payment is due. As a requirement of the trust, the assets are subject to the creditors of the sponsor. As participants become eligible for benefits, the payments become taxable to the participants as they are paid or made available to the participants. To preserve this tax treatment, the grantor trust must contain the language issued by the IRS in Revenue Procedure 92-64, which states: “Benefits payable to Plan participants and their beneficiaries under this Trust Agreement may not be anticipated, assigned (either at law or in equity), alienated, pledged, encumbered or subjected to attachment, garnishment, levy, execution or other

legal or equitable process.”

We were advised by our legal counsel that violating this non-assignment language in the grantor trust by permitting the assignment of a LOSAP benefit, as evidenced by a court order, would most likely cause the trust to fail as a grantor trust. Such failure would result in the trust beneficiaries (i.e., the LOSAP participants) realizing income equal to their accrued benefit under the trust. This means that every participant would have to pay taxes on the benefits as they are accrued and not just when they are paid.

Clearly, this is not a desirable outcome.

Even when a trust is not required by state law, if a LOSAP sponsor is reserving assets to pay for the promised benefits (versus a pay-as-you-go approach), the program documents should state that these assets are part of the general assets of the sponsor and are subject to the sponsor’s creditors. With this approach, the assets simply are not held in trust and theoretically could be used for other purposes. Similar to the trust approach, this structure would prevent a participating volunteer from having to pay income tax on their vested accrued benefits before they are paid. Since the LOSAP assets are the sponsor’s, allowing a volunteer to assign benefits/assets that they do not own to an ex-spouse would not be appropriate. As such, we believe the program documents should include similar

non-assignment language as provided for in the grantor trust, thereby making a DRO/QDRO not applicable either.

Since a significant number of our clients are in New York State, we must address the fact that New York State General Municipal Law (GML), Article 11-A, §217(l), states that “No service award provided under the program may be assigned or alienated except to provide for the legally obligated support of minor children or spouse.” Even if it could be successfully argued that the assignment of a service award to an exspouse could be considered “legally obligated support,” we were again advised by legal counsel that due to the language in the trust, such assignment should not be permitted. This is not the first time, and likely not the last, that New York State law conflicts with federal law (e.g., the age discrimination issues regarding post-entitlement age accruals, $3,000 federal cap on accruals, and so on.)

The LOSAP benefit earned during marriage is typically considered a marital asset, but a portion of it cannot be assigned to an ex-spouse. We suggest that the value of the LOSAP be considered when dividing other marital assets. An agreement could be reached whereby the volunteer must pay a portion of the lumpsum value of the LOSAP benefit to the ex-spouse or “traded off” when splitting

other marital assets (i.e., the volunteer keeps the LOSAP and the ex-spouse keeps another marital asset of equal value). Another option would be to require that the participant pay the exspouse a portion of the benefit received at entitlement age directly and thus, not directly from the LOSAP assets. Whatever arrangement is agreed upon, all parties should be mindful of the tax implications, as the participant will be responsible for paying taxes on the full amount distributed from the program. As such, an adjustment may be necessary to reflect these tax considerations.

To reiterate and summarize, we have been advised that LOSAP sponsors should not permit the assignment of any portion of a LOSAP benefit to a third party and the equitable distribution of an accrued LOSAP benefit should be worked out by the parties outside the LOSAP. Penflex, Inc. provides actuarial, administrative and consulting services for roughly 400 LOSAPs. Penflex does not provide legal advice and we suggest that each LOSAP sponsor seek advice of a qualified attorney on this matter. The information provided in this article is based on our experience and consultation with our own legal advisors.

UTV with MEDLITE® Transport skid unit reduces call time for beach rescues Westmore, VT. It isn’t every day that employees of KIMTEK Corporation experience firsthand the real-time application of the products they design, build, and sell every day.

In August, that is exactly what happened to KIMTEK president, Kimball Johnson, company business manager, Chelsea Cummings, and shop foreman, Dan Cummings, while they visited Wells Beach, Maine.

Many beach-goers rose from their seats to watch Wells Beach lifeguards rush to attend an adolescent, who apparently suffered injuries while in the water. Within minutes, ambulance sirens were audible and a beach rescue utility vehicle, a Polaris Ranger® 6x6, arrived at the scene.

Visible in the rear cargo bed of the UTV was a KIMTEK MEDLITE® Transport Deluxe MTD-103. The lifeguards and ambulance crew of Wells Beach Emergency Services attended to the patient quickly, loaded him in the stokes basket, and secured him to the MEDLITE's rescue area. The ambulance attendant cared for the patient while the UTV drove to the waiting ambulance.

Watching this real-life rescue unfold was personally meaningful for the KIMTEK team. The ambulance was unable to reach the beach, but the UTV swiftly, safely, and easily maneuvered through the large crowd, reaching the patient in a timely manner.

The MEDLITE skid unit housed the supplies needed to execute im-

mediate, on-site patient care, significantly reducing rescuers' call time and accelerating patient treatment.

A growing market segment, KIMTEK has seen a marked increase in requests for patient transport for beach settings. UTVs with MEDLITE Transport units intended for beach transport and rescues have become standard equipment for many urban and rural agencies with jurisdiction including larger beaches. Victim retrieval from off-road situations too tight for larger rescue apparatus poses a significant challenge for many agencies worldwide, many of which seek custom solutions from KIMTEK.

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

November, 2014

PAGE 37

FUTURE FIRST RESPONDERS If you have photos you would like to see in our Future First Responders feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Working structure fire in Clifton Park The Clifton Park Fire Department was dispatched to Brick House Pizza for a reported structure fire.

The first arriving chief had a working fire in the kitchen in a vent pipe. Crews removed the pipe and placed it in to a garbage can

JUMP TO FILE #092114106

and brought it out side.

Fire crews from West Crescent put ladders to the roof to check for any possible fire in the roof.

No fire was found. Firefighters checked for any fire spread, but it was kept to the pipe in the kitchen.

The restaurant had minor damage to it but opened later that night.

- JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

DEREK COMINS

Charles McDonald supervises Chris Sober from Garrison Fire, who was doing maintenance on Hogansburg Akwesasne VFD Tower 94.

Charlie is the son of HAVFD Captain Issac McDonald and will be a fourth generation firefighter in a few years.

Where Leaders Grow.

Company Officers Leadership Training (COLT) Westchester County December 5-6, 2014 Hilton Westchester • Rye Brook, NY

Capital District February 6-7, 2015 Hilton Albany • Albany, NY

Monroe County April 10-11, 2015 Rochester Marriott Airport • Rochester, NY

Featuring lectures for company officers of all ranks by: • Chief Mark McLees, Syracuse Fire Department • Deputy Chief Paul Melfi, City of Olean Fire Department • Battalion Chief John Salka, FDNY

www.nysfirechiefs.com education@nysfirechiefs.com 800.676.FIRE

PAGE 38

November, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

November, 2014

Page 39

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November, 2014

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Heavy smoke coming from the building at Waste Management

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Fire at Waste Management in Albany Firefighters from the City of Albany had their hands full when the alarm of fire came in for 100 Boat St in the Port Of Albany.

On arrival, the first unit called a Signal 30, working fire. The smoke was so thick from the burning material inside that you could not see the building.

Firefighters pulled multiple

JUMP TO FILE #100114100

handlines and went right to work soaking down the burning pile of materials inside the building.

Firefighters had to have a frontend loader come in to remove the materials from the building in order to put the fire out and hit hot

spots.

Firefighters were on scene for a while due to the large size of the building.

No one was injured and the fire in under investigation at this time no one was in the building at the time of the fire.

- JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

BOB ROOT

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Slingerlands Fire Department Cutting The Victims Of The Mock DWI Crash Out

Mock DWI crash in Bethlehem

BOB ROOT

Route 84 overturn with transport Middlehope, Orange County, NY. On the evening of September 16, 2014, Middlehope Fire Department was alerted for an overturned vehicle off the side of Route 84 in the Town of Newburgh. Mobile Life Support Services and the Town of Newburgh Emergency Medical Services tended to the patient while the fire department mitigated all hazards. The patient was transported to a local hospital. The cause of the accident is under investigation by New York State troopers as well as the Town of Newburgh Police Department.

Bethlehem High Xchool students had an eye opener with what happens when you drink and drive.

Members from the Slingerlands, Delmar Fire Department and Bethlehem Ambulance emergency services along with the Bethlehem Police Department came together to show the students what a traffic accident looks like after a drunk driver hits an oncoming car head on.

The students of SADDat Bethlehem High School got dressed and made up to look like they were just in a heavily involved crash. With over 400 students watching, the mock scene began.

Police units came onto the scene with their lights on and they gave a report to the dispatcher, who toned out the fire department with an ambulance. Two engines and two ambulances entered the park-

JUMP TO FILE #100114100

ing lot with the chiefs pulling up behind them for command.

Crews deployed fast and swiftly. Firefightesr from Delmar deployed a handline for precaution and Slingerlands deployed their crews, quickly setting up their tools.

The firefighters made contact with everyone in the car while police officers removed the drunk driver and gave her a field sobriety test.

The cutting crews covered the students in the car to protect them from glass and then started to cut the car apart to remove them.

The cut crews had the first door off and away from the scene within three minutes and had the driver re-

moved. The two cutting teams worked together and removed both back doors and EMS went right to work on the student actors. Firefighters and EMS worked together to get the actors out of the car and to the waiting ambulances.

The actor playing the drunk was handcuffed and was walked in front of the students as firefighters lifted a person, who had died out of the car and covered him with a sheet.

This showed the students that a student drinking caused another student his life. Some students had the look of shock on their face and others pointed.

The fire department has done this program for years with the high school and hopes this program will save lives.

- JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

November, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

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Page 41

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November, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

Vehicle News

AppArAtus For sAle PROVIDED

The Town of Newburgh VAC recently put this Demers Sprinter into service that was purchased from Mike Collier of North Eastern Rescue Vehicles, Inc.

CHECK OUT ALL OF OUR USED VEHICLES ONLINE! VISIT WWW.1RBN.COM AND CLICK ON “VEHICLES”

Please take notice that the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Uniondale Fire District will accept sealed Bids until 2:00 PM, November 7, 2014, for the sale of one (1) 1994 Chevy P30 Grumman Van. 11,600 miles. At 3:00 PM bid(s) will be opened and publicly read aloud. Vehicle is to be sold in “as is condition”. The minimum accepted bid for the vehicle is $1,500.

Sealed bids may be delivered in person to the District Monday through Friday 9-4pm at 501 Uniondale Avenue, Uniondale, NY 11553. Sealed bids must be marked “Bid for 1994 P30 Grumman Van.” For more info contact the District Secretary at (516) 481-8411 between the hours of 8:30am and 4:00pm Monday through Friday ONLY.

Please take notice that the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Uniondale Fire District will accept sealed Bids until 2:00 PM, November 7, 2014, for the sale of one (1) 1997 Ford F350 Pickup Truck. 47,000 miles. At 3:00 PM bid(s) will be opened and publicly read aloud. Vehicle is to be sold in “as is condition”.

The minimum accepted bid for the vehicle is $500.00. Sealed bids may be delivered in person to the District Monday through Friday 9-4pm at 501 Uniondale Avenue, Uniondale, NY 11553.

Sealed bids must be marked “Bid for 1997 Ford F350 Pickup Truck.” For more info contact the District Secretary at (516) 481-8411 between the hours of 8:30am and 4:00pm Monday through Friday ONLY.

1996 Seagrave 100 foot Rear Mount Fire Apparatus.

Sale is subject to a mandatory referendum. Accepting sealed bids until 4:00 p.m. on October 20, 2014. The minimum accepted bid for the vehicle is Eighty-Five Thousand Dollars ($85,000.00). For more specific information, contact the District Secretary, Joyce L. Nolan at (516) 481-8411 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Monday through Friday ONLY.

For Sale First Priority Renaissance Wheeled Coach Type 1 Ambulance on a 2014 Chevrolet K3500 4x4 Diesel Chassis. This unit was completely refurbished. Some upgrades include new FPEV RCT Electrical System, hoseline 12v Heater/AC Unit, new LonPlate Mica Grey Floor, Interior LED Lighting. $115,000 For additional information or photos, email vsales@emergencyvehiclecenter.com or call 800-247-7725.

1995 Ford E350-Horton Ambulance 37000 miles, 7.3 turbo diesel Automatic Transmission, Power Steering, Power Brakes, Power Windows, Power Locks, Rear view camera, Air conditioning, front and rear Ready for immediate use.

Ready for immediate sale, Asking $11,000.00 Call Vincent Sorrentino, District Mechanic 516-931-3546, extension 211

MIKE CAREY

Fire hits Cohoes home Cohoes, NY. Crews from four companies battled a fire Sunday, September 21st in Cohoes.

The blaze broke out at 43 Masten Avenue.

When the first crews arrived, JUMP TO FILE # they were met 092314106 with heavy fire and smoke.

The residents were home at the time, but Fire Chief Joe Fahd says they evacuated the house when they smelled smoke and called 911.

No injuries were reported,

but two cats died.

It took crews about an hour to knock down the fire.

Officials say the home's tin roof caused some problems, but they had no other problems.

Watervliet, Green Island, and Watervliet Arsenal provided mutual aid.

The home suffered heavy damage, especially the first floor. Officials say they think the fire started on the first floor, but a cause remains under investigation.

- MIKE CAREY

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November, 2014

1st Responder Newspaper - NY

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