VOLUME XLI, NO. 4
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Since 1973 DECEMBER 2013
On October 27, 2013, the Wantagh Fire Department was notified of a possible plane crash in the vicinity of the Jones Beach Theatre. Please turn to page 6 for the complete story. -Fire News photo by BillBennettPhoto.com
Fire News Wishes Everyone A Safe And Happy Holiday Season
Page 2, Fire News, December 2013
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Fire News, December 2013, Page 3
In this issue... A Service for Long Island Firefighters and EMS Heroes
Two-Day Fire in Brentwood Brentwood Fire Department was called to a fire at a recycling plant loaded with debris fully involved.
See story page 8
Manhasset-Lakeville Goes to Work Manhasset-Lakeville F.D. Companies 3, 4, 5 and the Ambulance Unit were dispatched for a reported house fire. See story page 21
Patchogue Battles Gas Fed Fire The Patchogue Fire Department battled low water pressure while See story page 30
Port Washington Honors James Duncan Port Washington’s Ex-Captain James Duncan was honored for his service as a 50 year member. See story page 47
Deer Park Holds Wetdown Deer Park Fire Department held a wetdown of their new Seagrave Tower Ladder 1-4-10.
See story page 59
Karl Thuge Retires Karl Thuge as he retires from selling fire apparatus.
Founded 1973
146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713 FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher TIM EDWARDS, Executive Editor DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor GARY P. JOYCE, Asst. Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production/Sales LYNN SEDLER, Art Director CLIFF CHIESA, Production Manager Advertising Sales: BARBARA CONNOLLY, EVELYN ALOISIO Graphic Artist: GREG JONES, JEB LADOUCEUR, Publisher Emeritus CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: Tim Asbell, Bill Bennett, Chris Brenner, Kirk Candan, George Caracost, Wayne Carrington, Mike Cimino, Charles Cole, Joe Comprato, Ed Coppa, Mike DesCalso, Jim Dunn, Larry Fox, Lou Gelabart, Martin Goffe, Myron Goldstein, Richard Gomez, Bryan Gosik, Carol Griffin, Brian Grogan, Steve Grogan, Daniel Gunther, Michael Gunther, Jeff Havlik, Jack Healy, Branden Heller, Michael Heller, Robert Holley, Andrew House, Linda Imbriale, Kevin Imm, Joe LaPietra, Paul Llobell, Harry Loud, Andrew McShane, Brad Maier, Paul Mazza, Terry McCarrick, Mike McCarthy, Lou Minutoli, Ron Monteleone, Jim Mooney, Ilene Morris, Michael Murphy, Charles A. Murphy, Phil Orlando, Robert O'Rourk, Francis "Sid" Parkan, Kevin Parkan, Tom Pesce, Jackson Pokress, Myles Quinn, Christina Rahn, Leonard Rivera, Dave Rubin, Jerry Rudolph, Jim Rugen, Orlando Salcedo, Steve Schaefer, Alan Shields, Drew Silverman, Steve Silverman, Steve Smaldon, Tom Smyth Jr., Bob Sorenson, Joe Sperber, R i c h Sta r k , E d Tu ff y, J o e Tu r n e r, Wa l k e r Tu r n e r, Alex VanSantvoord, Joe Virgilio, Joe Volpi, Dennis Whittam, Michael Wiwczar, John Wladyka Jr. COLUMNISTS: Bruce Johnson, John Salka, Chief Billy Goldfeder, Bradley Pinsky, Roseann Mariani COPYRIGHT 2013, THE FIRE NEWS LLC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 Announcements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 EMS Coverage . . . . . . . . . . . . .starts on page 40 Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 42 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 46 Safety Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 61 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . .pages 82 and 83 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 84 Motley Crews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 86
Letters to the Editor, byline articles, and columns represent the opinions of the writers and photographers and are not necessarily the views of the Fire News. We reserve the right to edit all of the above. We are not responsible for errors in advertisements beyond the cost of advertising space. Copy submitted is subject to editing for space requirements. The placing of an advertisement in this publication does not constitute endorsement. Contents are copyrighted. Editorial and advertising copy cannot be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Fire News is published monthly by Fire News LLC, with corporate offices at 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713.
41 Years of Excellence As you know, Fire News is in its 41st year of publication. Fire News has dedicated page five of our papers to take you back to some of the stories that we have previously published. If you have any stories, photos and good memories from the past, please send them to LI@FireNews.com.
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
Some Thoughts… As the leaves continue to fall and snow has already left its mark in many areas, we are reminded that we are entering the winter season. As the end of 2013 draws near, I would like to reflect on the year that has passed. Fire News had a fantastic year celebrating 40 years of commitment to the fire service. To our readers, we say thank you for the support you have given us over the years. Your dedication and commitment to our newspaper is appreciated. Our Facebook page has received well over 30,000 “likes” and continues to grow. That number speaks volumes. Fire News, like the fire service, has continued to grow in ways that make you safer. In our Long Island edition we started a “Safety Corner” and an “Emergency Vehicle Technicians Corner.” We will now bring this information to readers of all our editions through our website. As first responders, you are part of a well-oiled machine that is much more than fighting fires, helping the individuals who have been injured in accidents, responding to rescue and emergency medical calls. You are part of a fire service which includes the task of remembering our fallen brothers and sisters and assisting members in need. As you read through Fire News and view photos of fundraisers for organizations that are there for you when you need them, take a moment to ask yourself if you can find the time in 2014 to commit to helping just one organization in a special way. As the editor of Fire News, I am proud to be representing a publication that continues its 40-year commitment to represent all first responders in a positive way. Look carefully at our photographs. Look at the faces of the people who are the fire service. Although the flames that you battle, the child that you care for and the unfortunate you comfort is commendable, it is your face in the photograph that shows your determination, smiles of joy, enthusiasm and love for a job that the average person walks away from. As I look back through past editions of Fire News, the people have changed, but the facial expressions remain the same. Yes, you deserve to be proud of what you do. On Thanksgiving, I said a prayer and remembered my family members who are no longer with me or in need of prayer to help guide them through troubled times. I continued to pray for the safe return of all of our military personnel. I closed my prayer by saying thank you to you, the first responder. Fire News wishes everyone a Happy Chanukah and Merry Christmas to all of our readers. Thank you for your dedication and service! Dennis
THANK YOU! 30,000 for the likes! (Let’s make it 35,000!)
Helping Those Who May Feel Hopeless It's unknown how many firefighters die each year by suicide, but fire chiefs and fire service leaders from around the country agree it is a growing concern. While many have looked for information about the issue and how to address it, resources and materials have been limited, until now. In its ongoing efforts to provide firefighters and their families with access to counseling and support (Firefighter Life Safety Initiative 13), the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) today released two new guides - one for fire chiefs and one for clinicians who work with firefighters - on understanding suicide. "Any behavioral health issue brought about by stress can impact the fire service as seriously as a physical injury," explained Chief Ronald Siarnicki, executive director of the NFFF. "Following a 2011 summit on the phenomenon of suicide in the fire service, we concluded that developing these materials was essential to successfully helping the fire service understand suicide and reduce the stigma surrounding this complicated issue." The guide for the fire service leadership will help the user understand the causes of suicide. It also addresses how to prepare others within the department to recognize suicidal behaviors and help steer a person who may be at risk toward getting help. Additional prevention resources are also provided. "Addressing the behavioral health and wellness of department members is as much a chief officer's responsibility as any other health intervention like using seat belts, maintaining a healthy weight or not smoking," said Siarnicki. The guide for clinicians is designed to help those health professionals who are working with firefighters and their families understand the world and environment of the fire service so they can successfully assist their clients. There are unique stress situations that confront firefighters and EMS responders and these need to be understood. To download a copy of the guides, Suicide: What you need to know. A guide for fire chiefs or Suicide: What you need to know. A guide for clinicians, go to flsi13.everyonegoeshome.com. For more information about the NFFF's behavioral health initiatives please contact Dr. JoEllen Kelly at jkelly@everyonegoeshome.com.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
WEST BABYLON FIRE DEPARTMENT ANNUAL CHRISTMAS PARADE AND TREE LIGHTING
On Saturday, December 7, 2013, the West Babylon Fire Department in cooperation with the West Babylon Lion's Club will once again host their Annual Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting. Come Join Santa Claus and his Friends. Parade starts at Little East Neck Road and Third Street at 1700 and proceeds north on Little East Neck Road to the Tree Lighting at 1800 at the corner of Little East Neck Road and Vermont Avenue. Santa will be available for pictures and there is free hot chocolate and cookies, while they last. All community organizations are invited to march in the parade. Those interested should sign up by email at kosman@westbabylonfd.org.
FROM THE BROOKHAVEN TOWN FIRE CHIEFS COUNCIL
The Brookhaven Town Fire Chiefs Council would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas, a happy Hanukkah and a healthy and happy New Year.
PUTNAM-N. WESTCHESTER FIRE POLICE PAMPHLET
The Putnam-Northern Westchester Fire Police Association has produced a pamphlet highlighting the NYS Fire Police. The one page, three fold, full color pamphlet contains over 20 photos. The generic publication is suitable for all departments to use to educate the public about the role of the Fire Police in the volunteer fire service. The document touches upon: What We Do, How You Can Help, The NYS Move Over Law and Fire Police Teams. Also included are statistics of injuries and deaths related to emergency responses. Single copies and quantity ordering information, directly from the publisher, can be obtained by sending a self addresses and stamped envelope to Putnam-Northern Westchester Fire Police Association, PO Box 521, Patterson NY, 12563.
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Fire News, December 2013, Page 5
Happy Holidays from the staff of Fire News! As we approach the holiday season, Fire News would like to say thank you to all responders for your dedication and commitment to the fire service. May you have health, happiness and joy during this special time of the year. Continue to be safe and look out for your brothers and sisters. As you give thanks, remember those responders who have died in the line of duty this year. Reach out to their families so they know you have not forgotten them. Finally, pray for the safe return of all of our military personel. To quote the famous Bob Hope: “My idea of Christmas, whether old-fashioned or modern, is very simple: loving others. Come to think of it, why do we have to wait for Christmas to do that?” -Fire News photo by Dennis Whittam
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Airline Crash Drill
At approximately 1000 on October 27, 2013, the Wantagh Fire Department was notified of a possible plane crash in the vicinity of the Jones Beach Theatre. Arriving fire units found a commercial airliner indeed had crashed and was on fire with numerous victims strewn about the parking lot. Fire had extended to a shed (actual live burn) and there were victims trapped in a building. With the aircraft in place, victims of the disaster were needed. Some 130 Explorers along with their advisors from the Wantagh, Seaford, East Meadow, Bellmore, North Merrick, Levittown, Massapequa, Rockville Center and Garden City Park Fire Departments responded to the request. The Explorers all arrived early on the morning of the exercise. They reported to a tent where various stages of make-up were applied, some with burns, broken limbs, various impact injuries and unfortunately some deceased. They were placed around the aircraft and upon arrival of first responders were accessed for their injuries. This initial assessment put into place a Mass Casualty Incident (MCI) and the request went out for additional ambulances as well as the response of various agencies. Ambulances from Wantagh, Seaford, Massapequa, East Meadow, North Bellmore, Levittown, Merrick, Bethpage, North Merrick, Point Lookout and the West Islip Fire Departments along with Nassau County Police and the Wantagh/Levittown Ambulance Corp responded. In addition Major Emergency Response Vehicles (MERV) from Suffolk County, FDNY, Yonkers and Port Authority Police responded. Also responding was the Nassau County Office of Emergency Management, a Nassau County Logistics Unit and the Nassau County Coroners Office. In the coroners tent victims were searched, photographed and examined for identifying markings. A morbid scenario, but one that is as real as it can get as past history has taught us. Additional engines and ladders from other departments also responded to assist in extinguishment of the flames. All agencies involved worked hand in hand to sort out the various problems that arise in such an incident. Each agency involved took home the knowledge that some things worked well while others needed improvement and thus the reason for such a drill. The drill ended at approximately noon with participants returning to Wantagh Fire Headquarters to fill out assessment sheets and to enjoy a light lunch. Fire units from Seaford, East Meadow and Syosset who stood by while Wantagh units operated at the beach were released with a “Thanks.� -Fire News photos by Harry Loud, Eddie Coppa, Kevin Imm and BillBennettphoto.com
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Two-Day Fire in Brentwood
Just after 0200 on October 22, 2013, the Brentwood Fire Department was called to a fire on Emjay Boulevard at a recycling plant. When the first units arrived they encountered a 300 x 500-foot building loaded with debris fully involved. Engine 3-2-12 picked up a hydrant on the property and supplied Ladder 3-2-28 for a master stream operation. As other Brentwood engines arrived, additional hydrants on Emjay Boulevard were picked up as mutual aid was initiated. This included engines from Bay Shore and East Brentwood, and ladders from Deer Park, Islip and West Islip. As the fire evolved, departments and ambulances from much of Suffolk County and Nassau County rotated crews in. The fire lasted a day-and-a-half before being declared under control. Units were still in action 48 hours later as heavy equipment separated smoldering piles of debris. The cause of the fire is unknown at this time. -Fire News photos by Paul Mazza and Rich Stark
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Fires Keep Wantagh Busy
Three Lines Stretched On November 11, 2013, Wantagh was alerted for an automatic alarm in a Barberry Lane home. Assistant Chief Gross, the first to arrive, notified incoming units of a working fire. Fire had originated on the outside of a 1 ½ story frame, ranch style home and extended inside after it entered into the soffits and broke the glass of a window. Three lines were stretched as the flames were knocked down on the outside and firefighters immediately moved inside. The ceiling and walls were opened and all visible fire knocked down. Levittown was requested for a FAST unit and Massapequa was notified for an additional truck. Bellmore, North Bellmore and Seaford stood by in Wantagh firehouses. There were no injuries. -Fire News photos by Harry Loud and Paul Mazza
Heavy Smoke and Fire The Wantagh Fire Department was dispatched to a working house fire on October 26, 2013. The first units to arrive discovered a heavy smoke and fire condition in a two-story home on Sunrise Lane. Mutual aid companies were summoned to the scene for assistance. -Fire News photo by Lou Minutoli
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Where There’s Smoke … The Southampton Fire Department was dispatched to a smoke investigation near the intersection of Wiltshire Street and North Sea Road in Southampton on October 28, 2013, at 1452. Upon Chief Dennis Roy’s arrival it was determined to be a structure fire located on the second floor of a residence on the 300 block of North Sea Road. Crews were quickly able to knock down the fire and tarps were utilized to protect the homeowner’s property from water damage. The fire was contained to a second floor room but smoke and water damage was throughout the residence. Southampton Town Fire Marshals office is investigating the fire’s cause. -Fire News story by Chris Brenner - Fire News photo by Dennis Chuppe
Trailer Burns in Southampton The Southampton Fire Department was dispatched to a structure fire at the community center on the Shinnecock Indian Reservation at 1246 on October 29, 2013. Chief Dennis Roy arrived and had dispatch re-tone for a working structure fire. The fire broke out in a double trailer, which was being used for office space. Crews were able to enter the trailer and knock the fire down. It was difficult to extinguish due to the many rooms in the trailer. Around 50 firefighters responded to battle the fire. Southampton volunteers responded to the scene for firefighter assessment. Chief Dennis Roy was in charge of the scene. The Southampton Town Fire Marshals Office, along with the New York State Police, are investigating the fire’s cause. -Fire News photo by Chris Brenner
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Fire News, December 2013, Page 13
Dog Saved in Freeport Blaze
On October 29, 2013, the Freeport Fire Department responded to Miller Avenue for a report of a house fire. When the chief arrived it was confirmed and Engine 216 pushed the hose line to the door. Firefighters learned that there was a small dog in the house. The dog was located and firefighters worked for 15 minutes to get the dog breathing again. All units were up within one hour. - Fire News photos by BillBennettPhoto.com
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Page 14, Fire News, December 2013
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Flames Show on Halloween Fire gutted a Garden City home around 1600 on Halloween. Heavy black smoke poured from the upper floor and roof of the Hamilton Place home as neighbors and young children stood in amazement. Garden City firefighters were on the scene and fire marshals were called to the scene to investigate. There were workers at the home at the time of the fire. -Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Shed Burns in Seaford On November 3, 2013, the Seaford Fire Department under command of First Assistant Chief Lochner, responded to the Tackapausha Preserve on Merrick Road for a reported shed fire. Units arrived to find the shed involved and used one handline from Engine 682, who picked up a hydrant a few hundred feet away. The fire was brought under control within 20 minutes with the building suffering substantial damage. Engine 681 and Ladder 683 also responded and overhauled. The cause of the fire is under investigation, and there were no reported injuries. -Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Knock Down in Ronkonkoma On October 29, 2013, the Ronkonkoma Fire Department was activated for a reported structure fire at 16 Waltess Drive. Units arrived to find a working fire in a one-story ranch. Command requested mutual aid for additional units to the scene. There were no reported injuries. -Fire News photo by David Rubin
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West Babylon Locates Blaze On November 10, 2013, while returning from a department drill in Yaphank, West Babylon Fire Department Third Assistant Chief Schumann noticed a heavy smoke condition in the vicinity of Route 109 and Sunrise Highway. He notified Babylon Central of the condition and was searching for the source. Calls began coming into Babylon Central for a house fire on Beaver Lane off of Route 109, Chief Schumann arrived and advised he had heavy fire showing from the exposure three side of a two-story home. Chief of Department Campbell arrived and took command. With units returning from the drill they were already on the road and responded quickly. Engine 1-9-20 acting Engine 1-9-2 was first due and dropped a supply line at the hydrant in the middle of the dead-end block. Engines 1-9-1, 19-3, 1-9-6 and 1-9-8 followed shortly after. Ladder 1-9-4 took the front of the house and began laddering, searching and venting the house. Two lines were put into operation to extinguish the heavy volume of fire in about 40 minutes bringing the fire under control, with the house heavily damaged. The occupants were able to escape uninjured. The North Babylon Fire Company was requested for RIT and the cause of the fire is under investigation. -Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
Fire Destroys Garage in Glen Cove The Glen Cove Fire Department received a call on October 27, 2013, from the Glen Cove Police Department reporting a fire on Marietta Road. First on the scene was Captain Justin Valeo followed by 2nd Assistant Chief Phil Grella. First Assistant Chief Joe Solomito arrived and took over the command post. Initially, there were reports of a person in the house. Firemen did a preliminary search and found no one in the house. Chief Grella called Glenwood Fire Company for a FAST unit. First-due engine 528 picked up a hydrant past the house and second-due engine 529 arrived followed by Glen Cove’s Hook & Ladder 5211. Sea Cliff Fire Department was called for another engine to the scene. Handlines from Glen Cove’s 528 and 529 stretched for a whole attack of the garage. The roof and the side wall of the garage collapsed. Glen Cove Fire Department called for an immediate investigation of the fire. The fire was extinguished in about a half hour. -Fire News photo by Carol Griffin
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Page 18, Fire News, December 2013
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Overhaul Needed at Selden Car Fire The Selden Fire Department was activated for a reported car fire in front of 4 Pinehurst Court. 5-2532 was the first unit on scene and confirmed a fully involved car fire. Once the fire was knocked down units found that the vehicle was packed full of old news papers. Units pulled the papers apart to insure a complete knockdown. -Fire News photo by David Rubin
Car Burns in Massapequa
On October 20, 2013, the Massapequa Fire Department received a call for a car fire at Sunrise Highway and Chestnut Street. A Nassau County Police Department ambulance on patrol was the first unit on scene and notified the Massapequa dispatcher that this was a fully involved car fire. 1st Assistant Chief Keuchler was the first unit to arrive, followed by Engine 6314 and Ladder 636. One line was put into operation and the fire was safely extinguished. -Fire News photos by Ed Tuffy
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Fire News, December 2013, Page 19
Occupants Treated for Smoke Inhalation
Wantagh firefighters bleed the line as they prepare to make entry into a Levitt cape early Sunday morning, November 3, 2013. The fire originated in the kitchen of the Play Lane home and was knocked down with one 1-¾ inch line. A second line was stretched as a precaution. Smoke damage was considerable throughout the
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home. The occupants escaped the fire but three were treated for minor smoke inhalation and released. Firefighters were able to find a missing cat which was turned over to its owner. The cause of the fire is under investigation but is not considered suspicious. -Fire News photos by Harry Loud and Paul Mazza
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Page 20, Fire News, December 2013
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Up Close & Personal
Westbury Fire Department ex-Chief Patrick Cody. -Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
West Islip Third Assistant Chief Kevin Parrett at a recent fire. --Fire News photo by Rich Stark
Ex-Captain and 44-year member of the Bay Shore Fire Department, George Mowbray on the job! - Fire News photo by Rich Stark
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Fire News, December 2013, Page 21
Manhasset-Lakeville Goes to Work
On November 5, 2013, the ManhassetLakeville Fire Department Companies 3, 4, 5 and the Ambulance Unit were dispatched to Arcadia Lane for a reported house fire. The first unit to arrive reported that there was smoke showing with the homeowner reporting a fire in the basement and shortly thereafter a Signal 10 was transmitted for a working fire in the basement of a 2-1/2 story private dwelling. Engine 8740 was the first piece of apparatus on the scene and its crew stretched a hose line to the basement and knocked down the main
body of fire within a few minutes. The fire managed to extend out of the basement via a pipe chase to both the first and second floors of the house. A second hose line was stretched by the crew of Engine 8735 to extinguish any extension on the two upper floors. The crews of Quint 8728 and Ladder 8743 vented and performed searches on all floors, which were negative with the exception of a dog. An extensive amount of overhaul was performed and the fire was placed under control within 40 minutes.
The Great Neck Vigilant Fire Company provided a FAST unit with Ladder 8312 and the Port Washington Fire Department provided Ambulance 8546 for EMS coverage during the fire. The Nassau County Fire Marshal’s office was notified for an immediate investigation and is currently investigating the cause of the fire. All units were released from the scene by Deputy Chief Farrone (8705) within 90 minutes. -Fire News story by Kirk Candan Fire News photos by Lee Genser
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Fully Involved in West Islip On November 12, 2013, at 2057, the West Islip Fire Department was activated for a residential structure fire at 1015 McCall Avenue. Upon arrival, with heavy fire showing, a working fire was declared. With Chief Blaise Gemellaro in charge, mutual aid was requested for manpower from Bay Shore, Babylon, and Islip. North Babylon provided the RIT and also sent EMS to back up West Islip's own ambulances. East Islip and Deer Park both stood by in West Islip's headquarters. Additional EMS support was provided by Bay Shore Brightwaters Rescue and by Exchange Ambulance of the Islips. Multiple hand lines were put into operation to combat the fire in the two-story home. Despite the heavy damage already done by the fire, walls were opened up to check for further extension and massive overhaul was done. Both the Islip Town Fire Marshal's office and the Suffolk County Police Arson Squad were on scene to further investigate the fire. -Fire News photo by Rich Stark
Congregation Smells Smoke in Hempstead A fire broke out at a Hempstead synagogue on November 13, 2013. Firefighters were called to the Congregation Beth Israel on Hilton Avenue just after 1630. Members of the congregation in attendance for a social event smelled smoke and called for help. Nassau County Fire Marshals were summoned to the scene to investigate a cause and were speaking to workers who were on the premise during the day. -Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Tankers Respond to East Hampton
On the morning of October 31, 2013, the East Hampton Fire Department responded to Two Holes of Water Road for a reported structure fire. Arriving units found a single-family home with two rooms heavily involved with fire, and were able to knock down the fire within 15 minutes. Due to the lack of a sufficient water supply, Sag Harbor and Bridgehampton were also called to provide tankers to the scene, as well as an RIT unit from Sag Harbor and an engine and tanker from Springs, who stood by at East Hampton’s firehouse. All the occupants of the home were able to exit safely, and all units were back in service by 0245. The East Hampton Town Fire Marshal's office was called to the scene to investigate. -Fire News photos by Michael Heller
Two Homes Burn in Montauk
On November 13, 2013, the Montauk Fire Department was called out to a working structure fire at the Montauk Shores Condominiums on DeForest Road. Arriving firefighters found two homes fully involved and immediately began suppression operations. The Amagansett Fire Department was called for mutual aid, as was the East Hampton Fire Department’s RIT unit. In addition, the Springs Fire Department was called to standby at Montauk’s house. The fire was extinguished without incident. The East Hampton Town Fire Marshal’s office was called to investigate. -Fire News photos by Michael Heller
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Dog Resuscitated in Deer Park
On November 6, 2013, at 1726, firefighters from Deer Park responded to a working house fire on Old Country Road. Fire had engulfed the top floor of the house. While fighting the fire, First Assistant Fire Chief Larry Bradbury and his team found a dog not breathing. The firefighters brought the dog out on to the porch and Deer Park EMS started reviving him. The dog responded and was transported to a local animal hospital. -Fire News photos by D. Thomas and Paul Mazza
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Fire News, December 2013, Page 27
Cat Saved in Smithtown
What started out as a small dryer fire, extended through the walls to two floors in a residential structure in Smithtown on Sheila Drive. The fire, which was first toned out at 1430 in the afternoon, started in the basement and extended through the walls to a second floor bedroom, where crews were able to stop it from advancing. There was a heavy smoke condition throughout the house but all occupants were able to get out without harm. Firefighters were able to locate and rescue the family cat. The fire was placed under control in around 45 minutes and declared extinguished shortly after. -Fire News photos by Tim Asbell
Page 28, Fire News, December 2013
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Suspicious Fire in Bethpage On October 25, 2013, the Bethpage Fire Department was alerted for a house fire on Adams Avenue. Arriving units found heavy smoke coming from the two-story home and crews stretched the first line to the front door. Arriving crews stretched a second line as the truck company vented and conducted a primary search that was negative. The fire was deemed suspicious and was being investigated. Hicksville’s Ladder 931 was the FAST unit and 1st Assistant Chief Richard Resto was in command of the operation. -Fire News photos by Kevin Imm
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Several Injured at House Fire
The Franklin Square and Munson Fire Departments received multiple calls for a house fire on Doris Avenue on October 25, 2013. Arriving units found a heavy fire condition in the rear and sides of a two-story home. Lines were stretched while truck companies opened up and verified that all occupants were out of the home. Two firefighters along with several members of the family suffered minor injuries. -Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Fire News, December 2013, Page 29
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Patchogue Battles Gas Fed Fire
The Patchogue Fire Department battled low water pressure while trying to extinguish a gas-fed fire. First arriving units found a well involved fire on the 3 and 4 sides of a West Avenue home. Lines were immediately stretched from the first-due engine and an aggressive attack was made, but crews were forced to back out when an adequate water source was not available. After additional units arrived, the gas was shut off, and better water pressure was secured, crews made a successful push on the fire and were able to quickly extinguish it. -Fire News photos by Tim Asbell
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Fire News, December 2013, Page 31
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Thermal Imaging Camera Utilized
On the morning of October 31, 2013, the Hempstead Fire Department received a call for a smoke on the top floor of a commercial office building on Fulton Avenue. First arriving units at the top floor found a heavy smoke condition in the hallways and proceeded to check for the source. With the use of thermal imaging cameras, the origin was found in the motor of a nearby elevator room. The area was vented and preparation for standpipe operations was halted. Chief Clark was in command of the operation. -Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Brush Fire Beat in Levittown
The Levittown Fire Department responded to a large area of brush burning to rear of fire department headquarters on Gardiners Avenue. Flames spread rapidly and threatened the fire district’s maintenance facility. Several handlines were stretched and operated along with a tower ladder. It took almost an hour to bring the fire under control. Mutual aide stand-by companies were brought in from Wantagh and Hicksville to cover Levittown in the event additional alarms were received. Garniners Avenue were closed in both directions from Hempstead Turnpike for the durations of the incident. -Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
Page 34, Fire News, December 2013
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Basement Fire Halted in New Hyde Park The New Hyde Park Fire Department responded to a working fire in the basement of a home on Imperial Avenue on October 20, 2013. One line was stretched and the blaze was quickly contained and extinguished. Mutual aid companies were called to the scene but were not needed. -Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Bus Fire Battled in Garden City The Garden City Fire Department was dispatched for heavy smoke in the area of Denton and Main Avenues on October 15, 2013. Arriving units had to cross over into the Garden City Park Fire District to extinguish a bus fire in a parking lot on 3rd Avenue near Railroad Avenue. Garden City Park units were also alerted and responded to the scene. -Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Couch Burns in Baldwin Basement The Baldwin Fire Department was alerted for a reported basement fire on Rockwell Road in Rockville Centre. When units arrived they were met with smoke coming from the front door of the house. Firefighters made entry to the basement and found a couch burning. A hose line was brought in and quickly extinguished the fire. The fire was brought under control in less then 20 minutes. Chief of Department Brancato was the incident commander. Units were on scene for about an hour. -Fire News photo by Brian Grogan
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Fire News, December 2013, Page 35
Page 36, Fire News, December 2013
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Car and Home Burn in North Babylon
On November 10, 2013, the North Babylon Fire Company was alerted for a car fire at 175 Fulton Street. First on the road was Third Assistant Chief Harrington who reported smoke showing in the area and then arrived to find the fire had spread to the exposure 1 side and attic of the two-story house. First Assistant Chief Cabano arrived and took command, and was followed by Engine 1-8-2, which was first due and stretched two lines. One line was brought into the house and the other to the vehicle in the driveway. Ladder 18-6 set up in front of the house and put its bucket to the roof for its crew to vent. As additional crews arrived they searched and laddered the house. During the search a dog was removed from the second floor unharmed. The fire was brought under control in about 40 minutes with no injuries reported. The Wyandanch Fire Company was requested to the scene for RIT. -Fire News photos by Paul Mazza and Edmund J. Coppa
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Fire News, December 2013, Page 37
Bethpage Makes Quick Knockdown
The Bethpage Fire Department was alerted at 0342 on October 24, 2013, for a building fire on Bloomingdale Road, which houses a State Farm Insurance. Assistant Chiefs Resto and Debobes were the first units on the road, followed by Chief of Department Baudille and advised that a Nassau County Police unit was on scene reporting a working fire. Engine 9044 and Ladder 3 were first due, with 9044 picking up a hydrant past the building and Ladder 3 setting up in front of the building. Ladder 4 arrived and set up on the exposure 2 side, while the crews from Engines 905, 9055 and 9077 stretched two lines into the building and began venting and searches. The fire was quickly located in an office, extinguished and under control in about 20 minutes. There were no reported injuries and the cause of the fire is under investigation. The Farmingdale and Plainview Fire Departments stood by at Bethpage’s headquarters. -Fire News photos by Paul Mazza and Kevin Imm
Page 38, Fire News, December 2013
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Basement Fire Beat in Islip
Propane Tanks Complicate Vehicle Fire
On November 11, 2013, the Islip Fire Department was activated for a residential structure fire on Amherst Street. Responding units were: East Islip as a FAST unit, Ladder 3-5-5, and Bay Shore to stand by at Islip’s Headquarters. Bay Shore Engine 3-1-2, was moved up to the scene as the FAST unit, while East Islip was put to work. To replace the standby crew at headquarters, Islip Terrace was activated. The structure was a single-story residence with fire in the basement. Two lines were placed into operation and ground ladders were put in place, but no roof operations were required. The fire was extinguished and fans were used to ventilate the home. Exchange Ambulance of the Islips was on scene and the town fire marshal's office was notified for an investigation. -Fire News photo by Rich Stark
On November 7, 2013, the East Islip Fire Department was activated for a vehicle fire involving a motor home on Union Boulevard. The in-house dispatcher reactivated the alarm as a structure fire due to the vehicle’s proximity to the house. The vehicle had propane tanks on board. With Second Assistant Chief Rory Allen in charge, mutual aid to the scene was provided by Islip Fire Department with Engines 3-4-1 and 3-4-9 and from Islip Terrace's Ladder 3-6-6. In-house coverage was given by West Sayville. Making sure that the propane tanks were kept cool, the fire was brought under control. The Islip Town HazMat team was notified and responded to the call. -Fire News photo by Rich Stark
Page 40, Fire News, December 2013
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EMS ACROSS THE ISLAND Child Ejected in Hicksville MVA On October 27, 2013, in Hicksville, three people and a three-year old were injured in a two-car MVA. The child was ejected from the SUV. The accident happened at West Old Country Road and South Broadway. A 47-year-old man, driving a 1999 GMC pickup west on Old Country Road, collided with a 2007 Nissan driven east by a woman. -Fire News photo by Edmund J Coppa
Accident at Four Corners in Glen Head On November 1, 2013, a multiple car accident occurred at the corner of Glenwood Road and Glen Cove Avenue. The Glenwood Fire Department sent two ambulances to the scene for multiple injured people. One of the injured drivers was sent to North Shore Hospital in Manhasset and the other to Glen Cove Hospital. As both cars were damaged on more than one side, it led authorities to believe that there was probably a third car involved that left the scene before police and firemen arrived. -Fire News photo by Carol Griffin
Driver Injured in Farmingdale MVA At about 2335 on October 24, 2013, the East Farmingdale Fire Company responded to a single car accident on Route 110, south of Conklin Street. The driver of a Dodge Charger went off the road and crashed through a fence and down an embankment hitting a tree head on. The driver was unconscious when units arrived and after stabilizing the vehicle the driver was removed by crews from Engine 1-5-2, Rescue Engine 1-5-3 and Ambulances 1-5-8 and 1-510. The injured driver was taken to Nassau University Medical Center in East Meadow. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Trailer Flips in Centereach On October 26, 2013, just before 1300, the Centereach Fire Department was activated for a reported motor vehicle accident on Nichols Road in the vicinity of Hammond Road. Units arrived to find a single-car accident caused when a trailer came loose from the tow vehicle and overturned. There were no injuries to the driver. - Fire News photo by David Rubin
Page 42, Fire News, December 2013
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Fire News, December 2013, Page 43
Extrication Needed in Malverne On November 12, 2013, Malverne firefighters, under the command of Chief Scott Edwards, responded to a motor vehicle accident that involved three cars. The accident occurred on Hempstead Avenue at Birch Street. Malverne firefighters had to extricate one of the drivers from her vehicle. The three injured occupants were transported to an area hospital by Nassau County Police EMS units. -Fire News photo by Steve Grogan
Operator Error in East Farmingdale On October 24, 2013, the East Farmingdale Fire Company responded to Gazza Boulevard for a reported MVA with car into a building. The driver of a Jeep Cherokee reportedly mistakenly hit the accelerator instead of the brake pedal and crashed through the front wall of a warehouse outlet. Engines 1-5-1, 1-5-7, Rescue Engine 1-5-3, Technical Rescue Unit 1-5-28, Ambulances 1-5-8, 1-5-10 and Fire Police 1-5-16 responded to the scene. The driver refused medical attention and the building was inspected by the Town of Babylon Buildings Department before the vehicle was removed by tow truck. Third Assistant Chief Iuzzini was in charge of the scene. -Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Massapequa Cleans Up Fuel Spill Engine 6315 of the Massapequa Fire Department responded to an MVA on Park Boulevard and Koehl Street on October 30, 2013. Units had to clean up a fuel spill that resulted from the accident. -Fire News photo by Ed Tuffy
Truck Overturns in Selden Just after 1800 on October 22, 2013, the Selden Fire Department was activated for a motor vehicle accident with a reported overturn. Units arrived to find a single-car accident with a truck overturned into a pole. All occupants self extricated, and one occupant was transported by the Selden Fire Department with minor injuries. -Fire News photo by David Rubin
Page 46, Fire News, December 2013
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CENTEREACH FIRE DEPARTMENT SUCCESSFULLY LAUNCHES UNIQUE INITIATIVE TO PROTECT LOCAL FAMILIES FROM CARBON MONOXIDE AND FIRE DANGER CENTEREACH, NY, November 6, 2013 - Just One Life, a community service initiative designed to protect residents from carbon monoxide (CO) and fire danger, was recently launched with an inaugural event at Centereach Fire Department. The Board of Fire Commissioners, along with the Chiefs of the Centereach Fire Department, were joined by representatives of Briscoe Protective Systems Inc., a premier supplier of fire alarm, security, video and access control products, on October 29th to welcome local families as the first beneficiaries of the Just One Life program. During the event, each family was given a smoke/CO detector. “Briscoe is honored to partner with fire districts like Centereach, whose volunteers risk their lives daily for our communities, and work to promote fire safety awareness by giving out devices,” said Bob Williams, President, Briscoe Protective Systems Inc. “What makes the Just One Life initiative unique is taking fire safety an additional step, by ensuring the devices are installed in the homes. I am proud of the Briscoe staff volunteers whom have stepped up to install the devices into the homes.” According to the National Fire Protection Association, (NFPA), almost two-thirds of home fire-related deaths result from the absence
of properly functioning life safety devices. NFPA also notes that firerelated deaths are more frequent between December and February. As winter on Long Island approaches, the importance of having these devices in the home becomes critical. The Just One Life initiative allowed Centereach fire officials to identify local residents who could benefit from the program. Recipients were selected based on financial or physical limitations. These families will have the units installed during the next few weeks, and over the next month, the initiative will continue with more device handouts and installations at the other Suffolk County Fire Districts that are cosponsoring this program in their communities. The intent is for the Just One Life initiative to be an annual fire safety program. For more information about the Just One Life initiative, call Denise Rueda, Project Director, at (631) 619-9416 or visit www.briscoeprotective.com. About Briscoe Protective Systems Inc. Since 1978, Briscoe Protective Systems Inc. and its team of experienced professionals have brought world-class solutions, with fire and security alarm products and services of superior competitive quality and unparalleled value. Briscoe provides factory-trained technicians with NICET certification, in-service training, software support, preventative maintenance inspections, computerized equipment, engineering and drafting, code compliance and more. Briscoe has locations in Centereach, New York and New York City, New York. For more information, call 1 (888) BRISCOE (274-7263) or visit www.briscoeprotective.com.
Local fire commissioners, officers and staff are joined by volunteers and staff members from Briscoe and recipients of the smoke/CO detectors at the kickoff of the “Just One Life” program at Centereach Fire Department during Fire Prevention Month on October 29.
FDSOA 26TH ANNUAL APPARATUS SPECIFICATION AND MAINTENANCE SYMPOSIUM The Fire Department Safety Officer Association is celebrating its 26th Annual Apparatus Specification and Maintenance Symposium, January 19th - 22nd, 2014. Orlando, Florida. FDSOA’s annual apparatus symposium is the only conference dedicated to providing a better understanding of fire apparatus and ambulances to the emergency services industry. Presentations from leading industry figures, as well as apparatus and equipment man-
ufacturers, provide the attendee with a wide range of factual data. Breakout sessions and networking events provide a forum for sharing personal experiences with your peers. Last year’s event had 300-plus attendees. We expect even more this year! Please register now. Everyone is welcome to attend. Vendor space and sponsorship opportunities are available. Event details and course descriptions are available at www.fdsoa.org.
The Symposium will be held at the Wyndham Hotel Buena Vista, in Orlando, Florida. The Hotel Buena Vista, across from the Disney Village Marketplace, offers attendees reduced room rates, free Wi-Fi and free parking. For more information contact the FDSOA Office (33365 Raphael Rd., Farmington Hills, MI 48336) at: 248-880-1864; Fax: 248-479-0491; e-mail: membership@ fdsoa.org.
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Port Washington Honors James Duncan On October 18, 2013 ex-Captain James Duncan was honored for his service as a 50 year member of the Flower Hill Hose Company #1 and the Port Washington Fire Department in Port Washington. He joined the fire department in August 1963, proposed by his dad Ex-Chief John Duncan who also served the company for over 64 years. As a devoted member of the Port Washington Fire Department he was honored to have served as Chief Engineer, 2nd Lieutenant, 1st Lieutenant and the top rank of Captain of the Company. As a member of Flower Hill Hose Company's Board of Directors, and a member of the Port Washington Fire Department's Board of Directors he was still able to serve as Flower Hill Hose Company's President and so far has been the longest serving President, the most years as a director of the Company. He and his father are the only two generations to have achieved 50 years plus in the company and together have devoted 115 years. Jim served his country as Captain in the US Army Corp of Engineers from 1966 until 1969 with thirteen months in Vietnam as a Combat Engineer Commander, a demolition expert earning numerous meritorious citations, including a Purple Heart and Bronze Star. Upon being honorably discharged from the Army with rank of Captain, he continued to serve the public as a Nassau County Police Officer for 23 years. During that time he wasn't happy just serving Flower Hill and wanted to do more for the community. He became one of the Commissioners of the Port Washington Police District in 1996, where he still serves today. In addition to all of the above, Jim is also the founder, owner and operator of Chief Fire & Safety Equipment and Chief Fire & Rescue Apparatus Sales that he started 44 years ago. On a personal note, Jim has been married to his wife Elaine for 44 years and is the proud parents of three successful children. Allison Duncan Miller, Attorney, QVC spokesperson, and director of merchandising for a well-known fashion accessories company is married to Blake Miller and have son Blake 15 months old. Michele Duncan, an industrial/organizational psychologist, is a director for one of the top marketing research firms and is currently engaged to Sebastian Krawczyk. Doctor John Duncan is currently a resident radiologist at St. Barnabus Medical Center in New Jersey. Jim has worked tirelessly to help make Port Washington a great place to live through his work as a firefighter, police officer and Police Commissioner.
Fire News, December 2013, Page 47
Page 48, Fire News, December 2013
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Car Crashes Through Home in Westbury The Nassau County Police and Westbury Fire Department responded to a motor vehicle accident, where a car crashed through a home located on 3rd Avenue in New Cassel on October 30, 2013. The driver, who resides at the residence, apparently lost control and crashed through the back wall of the garage and into the basement den area of the home. Luckily nobody was home, and no one was injured with the exception of the driver. A Nassau County Police Ambulance transported the driver to Nassau University Medical Center in East Meadow for various injuries. -Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
Car Burns After Accident in Syosset On July 21, 2013, the Syosset Fire Department responded to a motor vehicle accident with a car fire on Jackson Avenue and Jericho Turnpike. Engine 585 was first due and stretched one line to extinguish the fire as arriving crews assisted in the operation. No injuries were reported in the two car accident. -Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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Fire News, December 2013, Page 49
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Quick Extrication in Babylon In the early morning hours of October 18, 2013, the Babylon Fire Department was alerted for an MVA with entrapment and an unresponsive driver at Litchfield Avenue and Little East Neck Road. A Ford van and Hyundai Tucson collided, trapping the driver of the Tucson. Engines 1-2-1, 1-2-5 Heavy Rescue 1-2-7, Ambulance 1-2-10 with Chief of Department Twardy and First Assistant Chief Sassuk responded to the scene. The crew from 1-2-7 put hydraulic tools into operation to extricate the driver in about 15 minutes. Once removed the injured driver was taken to Good Samaritan Hospital by 1-2-10. The driver of the van was not injured. -Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Hicksville Handles Overturn On October 24, 2013, the Hicksville Fire Department was alerted for an MVA with entrapment at the intersection of Woodbury and South Oyster Bay Roads. Arriving units found a Ford Explorer on its side and the driver unable to get out of the vehicle. Engine 932 was first due and put hydraulic tools to work removing a portion of the roof. The driver, who was not injured, was able to exit the car with the help of firefighters. -Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
SUV Rolls on LIE On October 16, 2013, at 2138, the Jericho Fire Department and NCPD Highway units responded to an overturned SUV on the eastbound LIE near Exit 41. The driver lost control and rolled over several times before stopping in the wooded area off the shoulder. Firefighters secured the scene and transported one person to NUMC with non-life threatening injuries. -Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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Page 52, Fire News, December 2013
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Fire Prevention All Over Long Island
Learning to safely cook at Stony Brook University. -Fire News photo by Fred Friedman
Syosset teaches fire prevention. -Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
Mastic Fire Department visited local schools. -Fire News photo by Mike Guarino
Medford held an open house. -Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
Fire Prevention class at the Seaford Manor School. -Fire News photo by Jack Healy
Northport Hosts “Meet Your Friend the Firefighter.� - Fire News photo by John Mancino
Fire Prevention day in East Hampton. -Fire News photo by Michael Heller
Farmingville Fire Prevention day. -Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
Page 54, Fire News, December 2013
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Fire Prevention...(continued)
Fire Prevention night at the Sound Beach Fire Department. -Fire News photo by Stefanie Montenegro
The Northport Fire Department educates the community. -Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
Selden Fire Department Fire Prevention day. -Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
West Hempstead Fire Department teaches fire safety. -Fire News photo by Bill D'Allessandro
Southampton reaches out to the community. -Fire News photo by Chris Brenner
Fire Prevention in Deer Park. -Fire News photo by D. Thomas
Annual Lynbrook Fire Prevention Expo. - Fire News photo by Steve Takacs
SUNY Stony Brook Fire Marshals at Safety Day. -Fire News photo by Fred Friedman
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Fire News, December 2013, Page 55
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Page 56, Fire News, December 2013
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Firefighter of the Year Award On June 15, 2012, at 2055, the Huntington Fire Department was activated for a reported structure fire at the Nathan Hale Apartment Complex, located on Nathan Hale Drive. Upon his arrival, a neighbor advised Chief Cochrane of an occupant within the affected first floor apartment. Within seconds of arrival, Suffolk County Police Officer Joseph Lanzisera entered the apartment through a living room window and met Chief Cochrane and Assistant Chief Berry, who had gained entry through the front door. None of those entering the apartment had their SCBAs and protective gear on at the time of entry. Chief Cochrane and Officer Lanzisera were forced to pass the fire through a hallway and quickly located the victim in her bedroom. Both men then carried her out to safety while Assistant Chief Berry suppressed the fire with a water can before the first engine arrived. Even though the fire was small both Chief Cochrane and Officer Lanzisera were met with a very heavy toxic smoke condition due to the burning plastics and carpeting. The victim, an 84-year-old disabled woman, was found covered in black soot and sustained second degree burns to her head, face and hair, as well as smoke inhalation. Both the victim and Police Officer Lanzisera were taken by ambulance to Huntington Hospital for sustained injuries and smoke inhalation. After more than a month in the hospital, the victim fully recovered from her injuries and is back home. Without Chief Cochrane’s quick heroic actions ensured the successful outcome of this incident. Because of his actions, Chief Cochrane was nominated for the Suffolk County Firefighter of the Year Award.
In the photo from left to right is Sergeant-at-Arms Ryan Murphy, Past President Roger Putnam, Second Vice President Chris Del Vecchio, First Vice President Peter Cincotta, SCVFA Firefighter of the Year 2013 Chief Kenneth Cochrane of the Huntington Fire Department, President Jerry Owenburg, President of the Suffolk County Ladies Jean Christensen, Third Vice President Frank Guarino, and Treasurer Robert McConville. -Fire News photo by Vincent M. Ammirati
Suffolk County Volunteer Firemen’s Association Installation of the Officers Congratulations to the 2014 officers of the Suffolk County Volunteer Firemen's Association . Left to right is Sergeant at Arms Ryan Murphy, Financial Secretary William Rowse, 3rd Vice President Frank Guarino, 2nd Vice President Chris Del Vecchio, 1st Vice President Peter Cincotta, President Jerry Owenburg and Treasurer and Master of Ceremonies Robert McConville. -Fire News photo by Vincent M. Ammirati
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Fire News, December 2013, Page 57
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Suffolk FCU Donates to Burn Fund
Stacey Hogan and Jason Clark from Suffolk Federal Credit Union of the Burn Center, John Lussa of Smithtown Fire Department and presented a check of $1,000 to the Suffolk County Firefighter Burn Vice President Dawn Meyers of East Moriches Community Fund at the Suffolk County Volunteer Firemen’s Association meet- Ambulance Company. - Fire News photo by Vincent M. Ammirati ing on September 24, 2013. Receiving the donation is the President
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Fire News, December 2013, Page 59
Deer Park Holds Wetdown
On September 28, 2013, the Deer Park Fire Department held a wetdown of their new Seagrave Tower Ladder 1-4-10. Father Suglia of Saints Cyrils and Methodius Church blessed the tower ladder with holy water. Chief John Giammarino’s wife, Lisa, and Fire Commissioner Andrew Duguid’s wife, Tina, christened the unit with bottles of champagne, and departments from across Long Island gave it a traditional wetdown. - Fire News photos by D. Thomas
Page 60, Fire News, December 2013
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New Fireboat in Port Washington
After approximately 2-½ years of planning, the Port Washington Fire Department commissioned the departments fire/rescue boat to adequately handle all types of water emergencies. Boat 85 Marine 1 is a 27-foot Boston Whaler, with twin 300 horsepower Yamaha outboards, capable of speeds over 40 miles per hour. She has a 1250 gpm Darley pump, powered by a 130 horsepower Mercruiser motor and a 7kw Kohler generator. The boat features a remotely controlled bow monitor as well as a standpipe system with three 21/2 inch discharges with foam capabilities. The cabin is heated and air conditioned for patient care. Additionally, the boat is equipped with radar, side scanning sonar, and FLIR night vision. There is a water level dive door with electric winch. The boat was christened recently with Bob Kropacek, Chairman of the Port Washington Fire Department, addressing the crowd. - Fire News photos by Craig Haas
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Fire News, December 2013, Page 61
Know NFPA 1403 for Live Burns “It is all fun and games until someone gets their eye poked out.” Have you heard that before? I remember when I was a young boy about the age of 12, my younger brother was 10, and we use to find old pieces of wood and make swords out of them. We had fun playing pirates. My mother use to tell us “it is all fun and games until someone gets their eye poked out.” In the fire service, nothing is more serious then when we have a live burn. Dedicated to live burns is NFPA Code 1403 Standard on Live Fire Training Evolutions, 2012 edition was written and revised several times. Several years ago in 1982, a “smoke evolution” turned into an uncontrolled fire and there was the death of two firefighters. NFPA wrote the guide to reduce and mitigate the hazard. Like all standards, they are voluntary. Unless they are adopted by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) they are a consensus standard and do not have the power of law. Some state OSHA agencies can cite these standards in court. First, a live burn is a planned event. The instructor can control the amount of fuel, the environment and can cancel due to weather, etc. Unlike being called to a fire incident, you have more time to get set up and plan your tactics. You know how many responders you are going to have, where is your water supply and where will you place the equipment, sure we can do this for most fires, but on a live burn evolution you could have days if not weeks or months to make your plans. NFPA 1403 was written to protect the officer in charge and all those involved in the training. According to Jones and Bartlett, 2012 Live Fire Training Principles and Practices, “Strict adherence to NFPA 1403 is strongly advised, as it will lead to the safest live fire training environment possible”... If an officer never read it or does not know what’s in it, he could we be asking for trouble when having a live burn. Some officers may say if they never read it, they do not have to abide by it. How many times have I taken a car, thrown extra tires in it, some old pieces of wood laying around went into it, tossed in all the old newspaper I could find, had a firefighter go to the gas pump and fill a container with gas and pour it over the contents in the car. Light a flare and from about 10 feet away toss it into the car and vroom, we had a roaring fire. Notify the standing by engine and crew to come to the working fire. Probationary, seasoned firefighters and officers all involved. They put out the fire. Man did we have fun. If someone had received a serious injury, would there be an investigation? Would NFPA 1403 protect them or hurt them? I suggest before you have a live burn read NFPA 1403. Read the books, gain the knowledge, and protect yourself and responders. Abide by the standard. According to the United States Fire Administration, 11 firefighters have died during live fire training from 1986 to 2007. Having a Safety officer is necessary and could help. Safety officers, should read Chapter 4 of the standard written specifically for you. The safety of our responders should be the highest priority. How many departments have the guide? Become the mom, “it is all fun and games until someone pokes their eye out.” Jeffrey Bailes President Brookhaven Town Safety Officers Association www.btsoa.org
According to the United States Fire Administration, 11 firefighters have died during live fire training from 1986 to 2007.
Page 62, Fire News, December 2013
Patchogue Holds Wet-Down Congratulations to the Patchogue Fire Department and good luck with your new rigs. -Fire News photos by Jim Dunn
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Fire News, December 2013, Page 63
Diesel Engines in Today’s Fire Service By Daniel Peluso I’m sure your firehouse is much like mine and I’m also quite certain when asked a question your membership will answer just like mine, “because we have always done it that way.” You might have been hearing the terms DEF (Diesel exhaust fluid) or PM (Particulate Matter) even Regenerating mode, but when looking at diesel engines today, it’s really not the same work horse we remember. The days of letting your vehicle idle for hours is long gone. Today, we have to deal with some of the associated problems that come with that. So when adding a new vehicle to the fleet, do we continue to do as we always have done? What’s changed and what is it that’s so important that we need to understand. Emissions conversion factors for hydrocarbons in engine exhaust: Without turning this into a science class or a chemistry overview, we can say we are looking to reduce carbon monoxide to its lowest level possible. Ford Motor Company, in 2008, added a diesel particulate filter to its 6.4 liter engines and sent a message to the driver in its dash cluster when particulate matter needed to be cleaned. Most drivers would completely disregard the message and leave it for the next run. In 2010 DEF was introduce to be injected into the filter to clean particulate matter and added a percentage in the dash cluster to show how restricted the
exhaust was. Like Ford, all manufacturers are using some of the same methods, and we as a fire industry are dealing with all the headaches that come with it. Today’s diesel engines cannot be left idling for long periods of time without producing excessive carbon build up. Even our big rig, Cummins and Detroits, are feeling the effects with long idle time. Introducing a drive time to your fleet maintenance overview can help. Having your drivers hit high idle when pulling rigs on the ramp for runs can also cut down on CBU (carbon build up). Having all rigs that are equipped with a particulate filter run at highway speeds is more important to today’s diesel fleet then ever before. Not shutting down a vehicle in regeneration mode is something that should be explained in detail to all drivers. Simply stated, understanding that reducing idle time will lower maintenance costs on each vehicle, save fuel, and protect air quality. Idling an engine for 10 seconds uses more fuel then shutting the rig down for a restart. We all know that sometimes we are stuck with no choice but to have a prolonged idling engine, but these simple steps will keep our rigs in service longer and our down time shorter. Stay Safe! Dan
Daniel Peluso is a 27-year veteran in the volunteer fire service. He is the Vice President of the Long Island Emergency Vehicle Technicians organization. Dan has worked in the automotive field for 30 years and is ASE certified. He has worked on fire apparatus for the last 10 years and has written multiple articles for many trade magazines throughout the fire service and the automotive industry.
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Fire Museum Helps Wounded Warriors The Nassau County Fire Museum and Education Center at Mitchell Field has provided Nassau County Firefighters Operation Wounded Warrior a display case in the museum. They also help sell OWW T-shirts and fleeces. NCFF-OWW now holds it monthly meetings at the museum, as well. -Fire News photo by Steve Grogan
Roslyn Rocks for Warriors On October 19, 2013, Roslyn Rescue Fire Company hosted their Fourth Annual Roslyn Rocks for the Wounded Warriors at Roslyn High School. The Doo Whop show included Kenny Vance and the Planotones, the Duprees, the Devotions, and Teresa McClean of The Classics. The emcee for the night was Emil Stucchio. The event, which also included a Chinese auction and a 50/50 raised $25,000 for Nassau County Firefighters Operation Wounded Warrior. Over the past four years, Roslyn Rescue has raised $70,000 for NCFF-OWW. Next year’s event will be on October 25, 2014, and will include the Drifters, Bob Miranda and the Happenings, Shirley Alston Reeves, and Stan Zizka and the original Del Satins. Tickets for next year can be ordered by calling 516-587-7187. -Fire News photo by Steve Grogan
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Multiple Tools Put to Work in N. Massapequa
The North Massapequa Fire Department responded to a multivehicle accident with a reported overturn and pin on Boundary Avenue and North Broadway. Emergency crews used hydraulictools to extricate the heavily pinned driver. He was transported to NUMC by Nassau County Police Department Aviation Unit #6 that landed at a local school yard. -Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
Head-on MVA in Uniondale
On October 17, 2013, Uniondale firefighters responded to a headon collision on Hempstead Turnpike. After the impact of the crash, one vehicle crossed over the center line and smashed into a minibus. Several occupants were taken to area hospitals by Nassau County ambulance. -Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Roosevelt to the Rescue
On October 26, 2013, the Roosevelt Fire Department responded to Nassau Road for a two-car head-on collision. The driver of a Honda Civic reportedly crossed over the double yellow line and hit a taxi head on, sending the taxi into the front of an auto body shop. Engines 732, 737 and Ambulance 7361 responded to the scene, along with multiple Nassau County Police Ambulances. A total of five people were injured and transported to the hospital with nonlife threatening injuries. -Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Fire News, December 2013, Page 65
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Obituary Bellport Mourns Ex-Chief George N. Hawkins
The Bellport Fire Department mourns the passing of Ex-Chief George N. Hawkins. George passed away on September 16, 2013. He joined the Bellport Fire Department in 1942 and became a member of the Hook and Ladder Company. George moved up the ranks and became the Chief of Department in April of 1957. He then moved on to become a Bellport Fire District Commissioner from 1962-1967. During his career, he was very involved in the rescue of many students at the Bellport School Fire, which occurred on March 8, 1963. George was the longest serving firefighter with 71 years of service in the Bellport Fire Department. George's father Nelson and his brother Robert were also members of the Bellport Fire Department. George will be missed by the Bellport Fire Department.
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Fire News, December 2013, Page 67
Firefighter Richie Nappi Remembered in Albany
The NYS Memorial Service honored Richie Nappi by placing his name on the NYS Fallen Firefighters. Memorial Wall of Honor. -Fire News photos by Don Miller
Page 68, Fire News, December 2013
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Wyandanch Hosts Haz-Mat Drill The Wyandanch Fire Department hosted a hazmat team training event on Tuesday October 29, 2013 at the old Weld Bilt property on Long Island Avenue in Wyandanch. The property is in the process of being cleared for the Wyandanch Rising Project. Three scenarios were staged by the team leaders, one being a fire with a chemical spill involved, a meth lab and a leaking 55 gallon barrel of acid. The members suited up, located and mitigated each segment followed by decon and cleanup. Special thanks to Supervisor Rich Schaffer and Commissioner Pat Farrell for granting permission for the team to use it to conduct this excellent training. The Babylon Team is made up of the Town of Babylon Fire Marshals, members from the eleven Babylon Town Fire Departments and The Wyandanch-Wheatley Heights Volunteer Ambulance Corps. The team is dispatched upon request by zone (east or west zone) or an entire team activation. Three days before the drill, Chief Dennis Scherback of the East Farmingdale Fire Department requested the Town of Babylon Hazmat team to respond to the scene of a commercial structure fire on Otis Street. After the fire was extinguished the team was sent in to investigate four bulging 55 gallon drums that were involved in the fire. After identifying the contents, the four drums were safely packed into hazmat over pack drums and secured for proper disposal. -Fire News photos by Brad Maier
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Fire News, December 2013, Page 69
Happy 90th Birthday!
On September 1, 2013, ex-Captain Ed Myslivecek of the Argyle Hose Company #3 of the Babylon Fire Department returned to New York for a 90th birthday celebration given by his family. Ed was a long time active member of the Argyle Hose serving as Captain and Warden before retiring to Florida. Several members and Chief Paul Twardy surprised Ed with Engine 121 at the restaurant where the party was being held. Ed’s family worked out the details with Chief Twardy and Capt Paul Balsamo. Ed put on the captain’s coat and
helmet and climbed up into 1-2-1 exclaiming it was a lot different then the 1931 American La France and 1959 Mack B-95 — both open cab pumpers which he drove to many calls. Captain Balsamo presented Ed with a bottle of champagne and 90th birthday card from the company. Ex-Captain Ed and his family couldn’t thank the members enough for making this a very special day. -Fire News photos by Brad Maier
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Fire/EMS Motorcycle Clubs Picnic Looking back to summer, the Long Island Fire/EMS Motorcycle Clubs held there 1st Annual Picnic 2013. Riders of Fire MC, Nassau Fire Riders MC, Red Knights 25, 26 and 43 and Expendables MC attended the event. The motorcycle clubs gathered together at the Fireman’s Museum located at Ridge. It was a start of many more to come. A special thanks to the members of the Ridge Fire Department for the use of their tower ladder. -Fire News photos by Ron Monteleone
Good Luck to New Members Riders Of Fire MC welcomes it three newest members to the club. From the left: Road Captain Joey Nuccio new member Alex Gutieerrez (Hauppauge Fire Department) Mike Vespier ( East Northport Fire Department) Fred Loiacono (Mastic Beach Fire Department) and President Vincent Ammirati. -Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
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Fire News, December 2013, Page 71
Wetdown in North Babylon
In August, the North Babylon Fire Company christened their new Aerialscope that was remounted on a Pierce Quantum cab. -Fire News photos by Stephen Schaefer
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Page 72, Fire News, December 2013
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Drill Teams Captains Installation and Awards Dinner
On November 9, 2013, the Drill Team Captains held their 45th Installation Dinner at the Manhasset-Lakeville firehouse. In the photos are the new officers getting installed, the chiefs of the Lakeview Fire Department, who won the trophy for best appearing Fire Department Class A for the past seven years, and pictured is the West Hempstead Westerners Drill team who won awards for 3-
man ladder, B-ladder, C ladder, motor pump, B truck Events, C truck Events, Combined B and C events, Most Top Five Finishes N C drills, Nassau County Points champs (two years in a row), 1st Place Total Points with 99 points, and the Motorized Sportsmanship Award. -Fire News photos by Bill D’Allessandro
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Fire News, December 2013, Page 73
Firefighters Graduate Suffolk County Fire Academy On Saturday, October 12, 2013, 144 firefighters who completed their basic firefighter training were recognized during graduation ceremonies held at the Suffolk County Fire Academy in Yaphank. The standing room only crowd celebrated the efforts of the graduates and cheered them on as they received their certificates. -Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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Page 74, Fire News, December 2013
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Turning Back the Clock in Dix Hills
The Dix Hills Fire Department participated in the Turn Back the Clock Day celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Dix Hills Park. Firefighters and rescue squad members gave tours and demonstrations of a fire engine, ambulance and antique truck, and provided information on fire prevention, safety and recruitment. From the left: Krista Marzano, Eytan Pick, Ryan Elliot, Shane Wax, ex-Chief
Rich Sorrentino, Rebecca Abensur, John Anderson, Captain Tom Smith, First Assistant Chief Rob Fling, Marilyn Byron, and Robbie Dantone, 2-1/2, being held by his dad Rob Dantone. In the front are Chief Fling’s daughters, Sara, eight, and Courtney, 10. - Fire News photos by Steve Silverman
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Fire News, December 2013, Page 75
Brotherhood The members from the West Hempstead and Hempstead fire departments joined together to play hockey. The two teams fight fires together and challenge one another on the ice showing the true meaning of brotherhood. -Fire News photo by Bill D’Alessandro
Long Beach Arena Reopens The City of Long Beach, the New York Rangers and the local firefighters and police participated in the grand reopening of the City of Long Beach Ice Arena on September 28, 2013. The arena suffered massive damage after Super Storm Sandy and with the help of the Rangers franchise and Chase Bank, the city was given many donations to get the building up and running. Rangers alumni such as Ron Duguay, Pete Stemkowski, Stéphene Matteau and many more participated in the friendly hockey game. The City of Long Beach holds a historic significance to the Ranger franchise, having previously served as a training facility for the Blueshirts in the 1970s. -Fire News photo by Zachary B. Grunther
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Page 76, Fire News, December 2013
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Lynbrook Remembers its Fallen
On October 20, 2013, the Lynbrook Fire Department, including its Ladies Auxiliary and the Junior Fire Department, held their Annual Memorial Service to remember six Lynbrook volunteers that died in the line of duty serving their community. The service, led by Chief Edward J. Hynes, was held at the Firefighters Memorial on Sunrise Highway. In the photo,
Chief Hynes, right, joined by First Assistant Chief Michael Anderson, center, and Second Assistant Chief James McDermott, salute the memory of Lynbrook’s fallen firefighters. After the service, a breakfast was held at the Knights of Columbus Hall on Hempstead Avenue, where the guest speaker was Fire Investigator Joseph Whittaker of the Nassau
Memorial Services at the Seaford Fire Department The Seaford Fire Department held its Annual Memorial Services at its headquarters in October to honor and eulogize the members of the Seaford Hook Ladder and Engine Company No. 1 who have answered their last call since the inception of the department. Ex-Chief Wes Weeks was the master of ceremonies for the memorial services, which he has done for a number of years, Department Chaplain Monsignor Steve Camp gave the Invocation and Benediction and Company President Jeff Fannon and Chief Dominick Bova thanked all those who made these services possible. The ceremony includes the reading of the name of each departed member and the striking of the Department’s bell each time a name was read. The service concluded by the placing of a wreath at the departments “old fire bell,” which no longer tolls, but does tell a story that harkens back to the time when there was a fire in Seaford. Pipe and drum music during the Wreath Placing Ceremony was provided by Roland Davidson and John Urrutin of American Legion Post 1015. -Fire News photos by Jack Healy
County Fire Marshal’s Office. Whittaker, a canine handler, brought his black Labrador retriever, Umi, who demonstrated his ability to locate accelerants used in arson fires. The dog is trained by the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms agency. -Fire News photo by Steve Grogan
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Fire News, December 2013, Page 77
2013 Mini Indy Challenges Departments
The 2013 Mini Indy was a great day overall. They had 54 firefighters and nine departments participate in the program and at certain times we had teams with extra support help fellow departments, which was awesome and a great morale builder. As you know, the goal is to continue and improve our skills when the bell rings and when we need to provide a service for our community or our brother and sister firefighters. Thanks for all who participated. A job well done goes out to the participants and instructors. Congratulations to the Miller Place Fire Department, who was the overall winner for the day! -Fire News story by Rudy Suderman -Fire News photos by Jimm Dunn
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Melville’s 66th Annual Installation Dinner
The Melville Fire Department celebrated their annual Installation Dinner at the Venetian Yacht Club in Babylon. Following a welcome by 1st Assistant Chief Michael McKeefrey, Chairman James Coscignano, Jr., was introduced and thanked the men and women of the department for their dedicated service during the past year, especially during Hurricane Sandy and the Blizzard of 2012. Emcee Joe Roberts was called to the podium to introduced Chaplin Fr. Michael Bartholomew for the Invocation. Joe then acknowledged the Board of Fire Commissioners. Chairman James Coschigano, Jr., and his wife, Marilyn; Steven Silvestri, and wife Pam; James Schuler and wife Regina; and Andy Rolleri and wife Diane. Unable to attend was Frank Mongello and his wife, Joan. The ex-Chiefs in attendance were introduced, followed by ex-Chief James Milazzo as the emcee for the rest of the evening. He then advised that the Company Officers were sworn in, as well as the Officers of the Rescue Squad Company awards for 2012. Co#1 Don Barclay, Co# 2 Joel Di Maggio, Co# 3 Andy Rolleri Jr. Rescue Squad Mayra Fuentes, Fire Police, Ken Low, were held at a Special Ceremonial Department in April and added that just the Chiefs would be sworn in that evening. Chairman Coschignano swore in Chief Michael Carrieri, Commissioner Steven Silvestri swore in First Assistant Chief Michael McKeefrey, Second Assistant Chief Jason Bernfeld was unavailable, and Commissioner Andy Rolleri, Jr., swore in Ron Russomanto. Ex-Chief Milazzo then called up Chief Michael Carrieri who thanked the men and woman and employees for their personal sacrifice they made each and every day, and the Board of Fire Commissioners for their support year after year. Chief then Awarded the “50 Year Ax” to ex-Fire Police Captain Robert Earley. The Chief mentioned that Bob was a top responder for countless years. In addition he represented the department at township and county-wide meetings. The Member of the Year Award was presented to Arthur Brice, (EMT, C.C.) by Chairman James Coschignano, Jr., The Chief then called up Estee Lauder Representative who presented The Melville Fire Department with the Humanitarian Award for the participation in bringing a new life into this world on January 12, 2012, at 1245. The crew was Captain Sukoff; exCaptain Andy Rolleri, Jr.; Sal Silvestri, Jr; Artie Brice; and Dave Goldblum. Outgoing Chairman of the Board Fire Commissioner Robert Reiser, was then honored and presented with an award. Beside him was his wife Kathy, who was presented with a bouquet of flowers. Ex-Chief Milazzo then called up the new Chairman of the Board of Fire Commissioners with wife Maryilyn for presentation of flowers, followed by Chaplin John Wallace for the Benediction. Ex-Chief Milazzo then closed the Ceremony. -Fire News photos by Tom Pesce
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Town of Babylon JOLT The Town of Babylon Volunteer Firemen’s Association held its annual JOLT in August at the West Babylon Training center. The Town of Babylon’s VFA would like to thank West Babylon for hosting the JOLT and the Town of Babylon parade. They would like to also thank Commissioner John Manzi for running and setting up the tournament. Congratulations to first place Deer Park, Team Two. West Babylon took second place and Team One from West Babylon took third place. The Town of Babylon VFA’s would like to thank all the teams for participating in the JOLT drill and hope to see all the teams next year. -Fire News photos by John W. Welter
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Karl Thuge Retires Congratulations and good luck to Karl Thuge as he retires from selling fire apparatus. Karl started selling fire apparatus when Roosevelt Field was not a shopping mall but an airfield, when Harry Truman was President and a gallon of gas cost less than 15 cents. It all began in 1946, when Lynbrook took delivery of a brand new Mack Pumper. Karl’s career began that moment when he met with the Mack salesman and spoke about getting a job. In February of 1947, Mack hired Karl and so began his epic journey. As a token of appreciation, Hendrickson Fire and Rescue sponsored a retirement party at the Coram Fire Department in honor of Karl. The retirement party, which was held on November 9, 2013, was a night to remember. The evening encompassed heartfelt speeches and awards from many close friends and family. As a surprise, Hendrickson Fire and Rescue restored an original, life-size Mack bulldog statue. According to Karl, the Mack bulldog statue sat outside the 42nd Street Mack Dealer in NYC as a display. When Mack decided to move from the NYC office, Karl managed to acquire the bulldog from them. He stored the 4-½ foot statue for over 40 years and it was in a state of disrepair. Hendrickson fully restored it and refinished it to pristine condition. When the statue was presented to Karl, his epic journey had now come full circle. The people at Hendrickson Fire and Rescue would like to thank the Coram Fire Department for providing exquisite hospitality for over 200 people that night. Most importantly, Hendrickson Fire and Rescue would like to thank Karl Thuge for his dedication, commitment and friendship. Good luck in retirement!
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Fire News, December 2013, Page 81
Farmingville Fire Department Holds Fright Night - Fire News photo by Jim Dunn
Keeping Kids Safe in Sound Beach The children of Sound Beach were kept safe through the Sound Beach Fire Department’s Safe Halloween program. -Fire News photo by Stefanie Montenegro
Page 82, Fire News, December 2013
Nassau County Junior Firefighters Association Trains
The Nassau County Junior Firefighters Association held their 4th Annual County Wide Training at the Nassau Fire Safety Academy in Bethpage. By the time the first evolution started at 0900, 217 juniors between 17 Junior companies arrived. They were lead by 46 instructors through six evolutions, which involved: the Garden Apartments, Tower, Warehouse, Forcible Entry and the Mask Confidence Maze. These exercises helped further the Junior training on the different aspects of firefighting. This training event took months of planning. If it was not for the hard work and dedication from all the companies involved, it would not have turned out as well as it did. There was a wide range of people involved from Chief Brown with his Academy personal, the VEEB, Chiefs of Departments, advisors and anyone else who was asked to help. To see more of what we do, look for us at www.ncjfa.org or Like us (NCJFA) on Facebook. -Fire News photo by Jerry Presta
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Future Fire News Photographer
Manda Coffey is a Lieutenant with the Farmingville Fire Department Juniors, she has been involved for over three years. Her father Dan is also a Lieutenant with Truck Company #1. -Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
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Fire News, December 2013, Page 83
Setauket Explorers Visit the FDNY Fire Academy
Setauket’s Junior Explorers visited the FDNY Fire Academy, led by the facility on Randal’s Island and witnessed a class of over 300 proretired FDNY Deputy Chief Bill Siegel and retired Captain Lou bies going through some of their daily routines as they learn and Andrade, as well as other members of the Setauket Fire train to be FDNY firefighters. -Fire News photos by Robert O’Rourk Department, in late August. During the visit, the explorers toured
Page 84, Fire News, December 2013
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Fire News, December 2013, Page 85
Juniors Glenwood Juniors Receive Trophies Congratulations to the Glenwood Junior Corps for placing second in the 2013 5th Battalion Parade hosted by the Oyster Bay Fire Company and placing third in the 2013 Nassau County Parade hosted by Bellmore Fire Department. -Fire News photo by Alex VanSantvoord
Westhampton Juniors Reach Out to Students The Westhampton Beach Junior Fire Department put on a musical Fire Safety Puppet Show. There were over 225 students in attendance along with their teachers. This presentation was at the WHB Elementary School. -Fire News photo by Cody Hoyle
Lynbrook Holds Nassau Juniors Meeting On September 19, 2013, the Lynbrook Junior Fire Department hosted the quarterly meeting of the Nassau County Junior Firefighters Association. The association, which is composed of 38 Junior Fire Departments and Fire Explorer programs affiliated with volunteer fire departments in Nassau County, brings together all these junior organizations to promote camaraderie, community service and training opportunities to help develop future volunteers firefighters for our communities. The junior members and their advisors were welcomed by Chief Edward Hynes who is a former junior, and one of the original members of the Lynbrook Junior Fire Department when it began in 1978. Lynbrook’s present Junior Captain is John Reilly III, whose father is an ex-chief and also a former junior. The highlight of the meeting was a presentation by Nassau County Fire Marshal Investigator Joseph Whittaker who introduced K-9 Umi, a black Labrador retriever, who is trained in accelerant detection by the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. -Fire News photo by Mike Gunnin, story by Steve Grogan
Fourth Battalion and Nassau County Junior Champs In June, the members of the Lynbrook Junior Fire Department took First Place in the Fourth Battalion Parade and the following month won the Nassau County Parade as the best Junior Fire Department. In the above photo, Lynbrook Chief Edward Hynes, right, holds the Fourth Battalion’s First Place trophy with Junior Captain John O’Reilly. Also joining in are, from left to right, Second Lieutenant Brendan O’Reilly, and First Lieutenant Sean Hynes. -Fire News photo by Brian Grogan
Page 86, Fire News, December 2013
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MOTLEY CREWS OF THE MONTH
The West Hempstead Westerners drill team and their families walked for Autism Awareness at Jones Beach. -Fire News photo provided by Bill D’Alessandro
Resolute Hose Company #1 of the Sayville Fire Department - Fire News photo by Vincent M. Ammirati
Yaphank at Gordon Heights -Fire News photo by Jim Dunn
Members of the Southampton Fire Department after a working structure fire on the Shinnecock Indian reservation. -Fire News photo provided by the department
Seaford firefighters at their Open House for Fire Prevention -Fire News photo by Jack Healy
Miller Place Rescue Team. -Fire News photo by Jim Dunn
Nesconsett members after recent Smithtown fire. -Fire News photo by Tim Asbell
Ronkonkoma members after recent Smithtown fire. -Fire News photo by Tim Asbell
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Fire News, December 2013, Page 87
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