VOLUME XLI, NO. 5
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Since 1973 JANUARY 2014
On November 22, 2013, the Coram Fire Department battled a blaze that destroyed multiple units. Turn to page 6 for the complete story. -Fire News photo by Jim Dunn
Fire News Wishes Everyone a Happy, Healthy New Year
Page 2, Fire News, January 2014
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Fire News, January 2014, Page 3
In this issue... Historic Church Destroyed in Yaphank The Yaphank Fire Department responded to a fire at the Presbyterian Church.
See story page 10
Early A.M. Housefire in Lakeview Firefighters from the Lakeview Fire Department battled a fire in an unoccupied house on Oswego Road. See story page 12
Blaze Knocked Down in Kings Park Family dog successfully removed by a Kings Park firefighter during a working house fire on Eugene Drive. See story page 29
75th Anniversary of NC Fire Commission The Nassau County Fire Commission celebrated its 75th anniversary. See story page 46
Wedding Bells Across the Island Long Island firefighters celebrate their nuptials. See story page 51
Jack ‘Toby’ Meyer, Still Active Firefighter Jack “Toby” Meyer is the oldest active firefighter to ever serve in the Patchogue Fire Department.
A Service for Long Island Firefighters and EMS Heroes 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 Safety Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 27 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 37 EMS Coverage . . . . . . . . . . . . .starts on page 43 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 69 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 70 Motley Crews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 74
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. If you have any stories, photos and good memories from the past, please send them to LI@FireNews.com.
Page 4, Fire News, January 2014
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
What is your New Year’s Resolution? Can you imagine that 2014 is only a few weeks away? Every January 1, when the ball drops, all of us make promises to ourselves that we are going to improve our health and wellness through losing weight, eating better, beginning an exercise program, or stopping smoking. I am sure you can think of a few more healthy suggestions like changing that high carb diet you might eat at the firehouse. The USFA (United States Fire Administration) points out that every year the leading cause of fatalities to firefighters is heart attack. Effective health and wellness programs can reduce this number one cause of firefighter deaths. We all need to embrace health and wellness. As a firefighter, there are some things you can do. Start by being serious about taking physicals on a regular basis, quit smoking (Do people still smoke?), exercise daily and eat healthy. On a side note, portion control does work. Yes, our health is important, but there are other New Year’s resolutions you should consider. The fire service has become more complicated as a result of necessary mandates that make us aware of the dangers that lurk in the background at every scene. Do you sit at your HazMat refresher class looking at the clock or reading the paper? Hey, pay attention, this training is no joke! I know that every class I take I walk away with at least one new piece of information that could save my life or prevent a long term illness from developing because I was careless at a past scene. For the senior guys; talk to the probationary fire-
fighter and share your experiences with them. But also listen to what the newbie has to learn before he or she can pass the Firefighter 1 test. Challenge yourself to answer the questions they have to answer to become firefighters and EMTs. When you walk into your firehouse or EMS Station, stop and look at the shiny apparatus that sits in your quarters. Before you continue to the ready room for coffee and fine conversation, open a door or compartment to your truck. Refresh yourself on the placement of equipment that you may have not used in sometime. Refresh yourself on the operation of the CO meter. Do you know what your department's procedure is for using this instrument? What is considered a high carbon monoxide reading? Let’s make 2014 a safe year. But also let 2014 be the year you refresh your commitment to the fire-rescue and emergency services. Relearn the basics and stay safe. Happy New Year, Dennis
ANNOUNCEMENT
A Near Tragedy Averted…
Recently, units from Port Jefferson EMS averted what would have been a truly senseless tragedy. Paramedic Captain Andrew Margolies and Paramedic Chris Van Houten along with EMTs Alpert, Viola and members Shappert and Psathas responded to a residence for two people in cardiac arrest with CPR in progress. The crews arrived on scene within five minutes and were able to resuscitate two young adults from an apparent opiate overdose. Both patients ages 18 and 16 were transported to John T. Mather and St Charles Hospitals in Port Jefferson. The use of opiates, especially heroin has exploded in the area over the last several years according to Chief of Department Kathleen Johnson. “It is almost a monthly occurrence that my units are resuscitating someone from an overdose. It is everywhere.” Chief Johnson said. “Heroin and prescription drug abuse is in the community, in the schools, just everywhere.What was once something we read about in the paper is now very much a part of our town. The best thing parents can do is be involved in their child’s life, know what they do, who they do it with and where they go.These two were very lucky. If it weren’t for bystander CPR and a quick response by our units the outcome would have been very different.” Port Jefferson EMS is a combination EMS agency of career and volunteer Paramedics and EMT's providing 24/7/365 advanced life support ambulance service to the communities of Port Jefferson, Belle Terre, and Mount Sinai. For more information on community CPR, medical training, volunteering, or careers in EMS visit our website at www.pjems.org
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Happy New Year from Publisher Franck C. Trotta and all the Staff of Fire News
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Fire News, January 2014, Page 5
Contest Honors Setauket Firefighter for Battling the Leading Cause of Firefighter Fatalities Cardioviva™ Awards $30K in Cash and Prizes to Heart Health Champions What do a former motorcycle dealership owner and MBA candidate, a marine scientist, and an emergency management consultant have in common? While their day jobs might be vastly different, they are all volunteer firefighters who have just been named the winners of the first Search for Cardioviva Heart Health Champions contest. Heart attacks account for more than half of on-duty firefighter deaths. To encourage exercise, a nutritious diet, and other healthy behaviors among firefighters, Cardioviva, the first natural probiotic clinically proven to help maintain healthy cholesterol levels in adults, teamed up with the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) to conduct a nationwide search for three heart health champions. The search puts the spotlight on firefighters who are not only taking care of their own health, but who are also motivating their brethren and communities to live healthier lifestyles. The winners will receive a combined total of $30,000 in cash and prizes so that they can continue their efforts and educate emergency responders and the communities they serve on how they can proactively protect themselves against heart disease. After a nationwide search and public voting to nar-
row the field down to the top 10 finalists, a panel of judges consisting of heart health, fire, and nutrition/fitness experts selected the following three winners: -Grand Prize Winner: Peggy Smith, Coolin-Cavanaugh Bay Fire Company,
tenant. Motivated by his father’s commitment to staying physically fit and coaching others in marathon training, Tom and a cadre of firefighter runners started a health and wellness committee at their firehouse. Tom wants to continue his father's legacy and be a good role model and coach to his department. “I am proud to be a Cardioviva Heart Health Champion because it is essential that older folks like me keep tuned up or we’ll break down. Between processed foods, desk jobs, frequent adrenaline jolts, and repeated smoke exposure, the battle to improve health is relentless,” said Tom. “We need to retain every viable member who can endure the physical and mental toll of being a volunteer firefighter or EMT, and we can only do this if we are operating at our full potential.” As a first place winner, Tom’s department will receive $5,000 for his firehouse, as well as a nutrition and fitness makeover, including $2,500 of fitness equipment and donated TRX FORCE kits, for Company 1. He looks forward to helping department members by combining fitness training motivation with expert advice on nutrition and food choices. Congratulations to all of the winners!
“Heart attacks account for more than half of onduty firefighter deaths.” Coolin, Idaho. - First Prize: Thomas Gulbransen, Setauket Fire Department, Company 1, Setauket, NY While his fulltime job is a marine scientist at Battelle Memorial Institute in Setauket, Tom still tries to average at least one call a day as a volunteer firefighter for the Setauket Fire Department, Company 1. Firefighting is in Tom's DNA. His grandfather was a charter member of Rescue Company 4 in New York City and his brother was a decorated firefighter in Brooklyn. Tom began as a volunteer firefighter in 1982 and has been with his current company for the last 15 years, currently serving as a first lieu-
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Coram Battles Blaze at Bretton Woods On November 22, 2013, the Coram Fire Department battled a blaze that destroyed three units and damaged three more units with extensive smoke and water damage at the Bretton Woods Drive complex. The cause of the fire was undetermined as reported by the Suffolk County Arson Squad and the Brookhaven Fire Marshals. Twelve families were displaced by the fire. The American Red Cross helped 22 residents after the fire. Additional fire departments that responded to assist with the fire were Selden, Gordon Heights, Middle Island, Farmingville, Mount Sinai and Terryville. -Fire News photos by Jim Dunn
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Flames Knocked Down in Levittown On November 21, 2013, at 0745, the Levittown Fire Department responded to the report of a house fire on North Wantagh Avenue. Arriving units found smoke showing with fire venting out of the rear windows. The fire was quickly knocked down and crews overhauled the fire rooms. No injuries were reported for the operation. -Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
Units Arrive to Working Fire On November 11, 2013, at 0335, the Plainview Fire Department was alerted for a house fire on Frankie Lane in Old Bethpage. Bethpage Station #4 was also alerted for a dual response plan. Arriving units found smoke showing and a confirmed fire in a second floor bedroom. Engine 9044 stretched one line, secured a water supply and made an interior attack on the fire. Arriving units assisted in the primary search and venting the home. No injuries were reported for the incident. -Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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Wind Fans Flames in Garden City A raging, wind-swept fire totally gutted a Garden City home early on November 24, 2013. Firefighters arrived at the Andover Court home around 0220 to find the split level house totally engulfed in flames. All occupants of the home were able to escape to safety. Fire companies from several towns were called to assist as the wind blew burning brands throughout the neighborhood. -Fire News photo by www.FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Bellmore Blasts Blaze The Bellmore Fire Department responded to a house fire on the morning of November 23, 2013. The blaze did heavy damage to the upper floor of the Bellmill Road home. It was brought under control within 30 minutes with the assistance of mutual aid companies. -Fire News photo by www.FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Historic Church Destroyed in Yaphank
On December 8, 2013, at approximately 0410, the Yaphank Fire Department responded to a fire at the Yaphank Presbyterian Church, which was built in 1851. Upon arrival, a fully involved structure fire was declared. Firefighters worked quickly and aggressively to get water on the fire that was consuming this historic landmark. With the help of mutual aid departments, the fire was brought under control, but not before the flames badly damaged the building. At first, arson was considered as a possible cause of the fire, but investigation by the Suffolk County Police Department Arson Squad and the Brookhaven Town Fire Marshals Office found a faulty heating system caused the blaze. -Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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Lakeview Goes to Work Firefighters from the Lakeview Fire Department battled a fire in an unoccupied house on Oswego Road in the early hours of November 23, 2013. The alarm came in around 0045 with reports of possible squatters at the site. The fire was under control within 20 minutes. -Fire News photo by www.FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Wantagh Knocks Out Shed Fire Wantagh firefighters extinguished a fire that was in a shed in the rear of a Spring Lane home in Levittown. The fire occurred on November 30, 2013, and was quickly extinguished with one handline. There was slight extension to the home, which was kept in check with a garden hose prior to the arrival of the fire department. -Fire News photo by Harry Loud
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Fire News, January 2014, Page 13
Police Confirm East Norwich Worker The East Norwich Fire Department was called to a Brookville Road home on the afternoon November 29, 2013, for the report of a fire. Responding, units were advised through local police that they had a working fire at the location. The origin may have been in a rear bedroom. Units made an aggressive attack to extinguish the blaze. Four departments provided mutual aid. -Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Under Control in Uniondale The Uniondale Fire Department responded to Liberty Street for a house fire on the morning of November 29, 2013. Engine company members quickly extinguished a small fire that was on the second floor. -Fire News photo by www.FirstOnScenePhotos
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Page 14, Fire News, January 2014
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Nassau, Suffolk Battle Brentwood Fire
On November 24, 2013, the Brentwood Fire Department was alerted for a reported outside fire at a sand and gravel yard on Corbin Avenue and Grand Boulevard. Units arrived to find a large area of trees and stumps from Hurricane Sandy on fire that were being stored there. Chief of Department Valentin requested multiple mutual aid to the scene to battle the fire with multiple tower ladders, deck guns and handlines in bitter cold temperatures and high winds, which quickly spread the fire. The fire burned through the night and was finally declared under control 24 hours later. Approximately 40 departments from Suffolk and Nassau Counties responded and rotated out with the crews that were on scene. Four firefighters suffered minor injuries and were treated and released from the hospital. The cause of the fire is unknown and under investigation. This was the second time in a month that both counties responded to Brentwood for a multi-alarm operation. -Fire News photos by Paul Mazza and Alex VanSantvoord
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At approximately 0320 on December 5, 2013, the Bay Shore Fire Department was activated for a fire at the Jon Thomas Inne on Sunrise Highway and Howells Road. First Assistant Chief Ippolito transmitted a working fire as fire could be seen coming from the roof vents over the kitchen area and extending to the second floor. Chief of Department Butler and Second Assistsnt Chief Kunz arrived, with Chief Butler taking command of the scene. Assistant Chiefs Ippolito and Kunz ran the fire attack operations. Incoming engines picked up several hydrants and stretched four handlines to the building, making entry into the kitchen. Additional crews went to the second floor where the fire had vented from the exposure 4 side windows of an apartment above the restaurant. The crew from Ladder 3-1-4 opened the roof to vent the building and check for extension. With an aggressive attack on the fire, it was contained to the kitchen area and apartment above and was brought under control by 0430. Mutual aid was provided to the scene by West Islip and Islip, East Islip stood by at Bay Shore’s headquarters. The cause of the fire is under investigation but does not seem suspicious. -Fire News photos by Paul Mazza and John Ippolito
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Garden City Park Alerted for Electrical Problem The Garden City Park Fire Department responded to the report of an electrical fire at the NanKing restaurant on Hillside Avenue on the morning of November 22, 2013. Smoke was showing on arrival and a precautionary handline was stretched to the front door. A mutual aid truck company from Mineola was also called to the scene. -Fire News photo by www.FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Setauket Saves Historic Home On November 26, 2013, at 0302, the Setauket Fire Department responded to a call at a historic home on Old Post Road. Upon the arrival of firefighters from Setauket and Port Jefferson, an active fire was discovered in the wall around the fireplace of the home. The wall was quickly opened up to expose the fire. A quick response and immediate action prevented the flames from traveling through the balloon constructed home. The Terryville Fire Department covered the Setauket fire district during the call. -Fire News photo by Dennis Whittam
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Fire News, January 2014, Page 19
On November 25, 2013, at 1254, firefighters from the Selden Fire Department responded to Bank Street and Old Town Road for a reported fire. Despite the 20-degree temperature, firefighters, with the help of five mutual aid departments brought this fire under control. Chief of Department Joe Leavens was in charge of the call. -Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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Page 20, Fire News, January 2014
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Gas Leak Discovered at Mastic Home Depot On November 5, 2013, as units were clearing up from a structure fire, the Mastic Fire Department received a call for a gas leak at a Home Depot on William Floyd Parkway. As Chief 5-12-30 arrived on scene he observed that the store was evacuated and all of the people were in the parking lot. The chief radioed that the store was evacuated and that he wanted his first unit at the main entrance. Mastic Fire Police were on scene to control the crowed. A faulty heater was located as the cause of the gas leak. LIPA arrived and secured the heater. Mastic Ambulance stood by at the scene to assist with EMS operations if needed. -Fire News photo by Jim Rugen
Mastic Fire Department Gets Back-To-Back Alarms On November 5, 2013, at around 1000, the Mastic Fire Department was called for a working fire on Montgomery Avenue. All occupants were outside the home as the fire department arrived. First unit on scene was Chief 5-12-30, followed by 5-12-1 and 512-2 and both units had full crews on board. The Chief found a small fire in a room on the south side of the home. This fire was extinguished quickly and caused a small amount of damage but there was some smoke throughout the home so Mastic firefighters set up an exhaust fan at the front door. Mastic Ambulance was on scene with EMTs standing by. This fire was brought under control rapidly. -Fire News photo by Jim Rugen
Intense Flames Battled in Hauppauge The Hauppauge Fire Department responded to a fire in a lawyer’s office located on Kings Highway on November 14, 2013, at 2030. Upon the arrival of firefighters, heavy fire was found on the first floor and was extending to the second floor. Nobody was inside of the structure. Two firefighters were treated by EMS crews at the scene for minor injuries. Mutual aid was requested from Central Islip, Smithtown, Nesconset, Commack and Brentwood. It took an hour to bring the blaze under control. The fire marshal was called to investigate the cause. -Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
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Propane Tanks Complicate Vehicle Fire
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. The Islip Town HazMat team was notified and responded to the call. -Fire News photos by Rich Stark
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Fire News, January 2014, Page 23
West Sayville Battles Heavy Fire
On November 27, 2013, the West Sayville Fire Department was activated for an unknown fire on Atlantic Avenue. Less than five minutes later, the nature of the alarm was changed to a residential structure fire, a Queen Anne style home. Assistant Chief Lucas Domingo, in charge of the alarm, reported heavy fire coming from the 2-3 corner outside and extending up to the roof and into the attic. Mutual aid was requested from Bohemia for their RIT and from Sayville for one engine to the scene. Bayport was originally requested to stand-by at West Sayville’s HQ but they were moved to the scene with East Islip replacing them for the standby. Additionally, Blue Point was also requested to the scene with one engine. Three handlines off 3-10-1 went into operation along with the roof being vented. The tower ladder3-10-5 was put into place and used to support fire fighting operations. There was extensive overhaul done, which mitigated any further extension into the structure. Community Ambulance was on scene with several of their units, including 3-2888, their MCI unit. The Islip Town Fire Marshal was on scene with the Suffolk County Police Arson Squad. -Fire News photos by Rich Stark
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At approximately 0640 on November 15, 2013, the Brentwood Fire Department was called to a Wisconsin Avenue home for a reported house fire. First Assistant Chief Peterson and Second Assistant Chief Derbyshire were advised while en route that Brentwood Legion Ambulance and Suffolk County Police were on scene and had heavy fire condition throughout the second floor of a large two-story home comprised of three apartments. Prior to the fire department’s arrival, a resident, two neighbors, a passing motorist and Suffolk County Police 3rd Precinct officer used a ladder to remove several occupants as well as cutting open a boarded staircase to remove others. A total of 12 people were rescued. Multiple lines from Engine 3-2-5 were pushed into the house, and an interior attack was started, as searches were performed and found to be negative. The decision was made to pull firefighters out of the house as parts of it started to collapse. Ladder 3-228 was set up in front of the house and used its master stream along with the handlines to extinguish the fire and bring it under control in about an hour. One resident and the police officer that entered the house were taken to the hospital; the officer was later released. Mutual aid was provided by Hauppauge for RIT with additional mutual aid from the East Brentwood, Islip, West Islip and Deer, North Babylon, and the Islip Exchange, Central IslipHauppauge, and Bay Shore Brightwaters Ambulance Corps. The cause of the fire is under investigation. -Fire News photos by Paul Mazza and Rich Stark
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Multiple Calls Received in Bay Shore On November 9, 2013, the Bay Shore Fire Department was alerted to respond to a report of a house on fire behind Shore Lane. Second Assistant Chief Ed Kunz quickly responded to Maple Court and advised that he had an active fire to the rear of the address. Chief Ippolito arrived and quickly established command. The crews of BSFD Hose 315 and H&L Truck 314 quickly advanced the attack line and vented, while second Assistant Chief Kunz and First Lt. Mike Ippolito went in to search for occupants. The fire was knocked down within 10 minutes. The SCPD Arson Squad and the ITFM Office was requested to scene. Mutual aid was provided by Islip and West Islip. The fire was under investigation. -Fire News photo by John Ippolito, Jr.
Chief Ippolito Locates Hound The Bay Shore Fire Department was activated for a structure fire on Redington Street. Units were informed that there may be an occupant within the home. Upon arrival, First Assistant Chief John Ippolito declared a working fire. Chief Ippolito forced entry and found a dog on the floor, which was removed. The dog was cared for by Bay ShoreBrightwaters Ambulance. One line was put into operation and the crew from Engine 3-1-3 made a quick knock down. The fire was contained to the one apartment with no extension. -Fire News photo by Rich Stark
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When it Comes to Safety Be Proactive Recently the New York area suffered a tragic loss when a commuter train allegedly traveling at 82 mph tried to negotiate a bend with a 30 mph speed limit. The results probably could have been predicted. As our thoughts and prayers go out to those that have passed, those that were injured, and all their families, let us start paying attention to prevention. Could this have happened at anytime anywhere? Post accident, the CEO called for a safety meeting (reactive). He wanted everyone involved, from porters to the highest in management. Perhaps a safety meeting prior to the accident (proactive) might have raised some attention to the cause prior to the accident. Do we need a “crystal ball” to predict the future? Can we use historical information to give us some insights? In the next 10 years approximately 1,000,000 (yes that is a million, not a typo) first responders will be injured and 1,000 first responders will die. Almost half of them will die from stress and overexertion resulting in a heart attack. These numbers are historical. When we suffer a firefighter Line Of Duty Death (LODD) the emotional shock is tremendous. We wear a black band on our badge (if the loss was in our state), line up aerial ladders with American flags hanging all in a row and we pay our respect to the fallen hero. Perhaps that local jurisdiction will have a safety meeting on how to prevent this tragedy from happening again. Could we have a safety meeting prior to the tragedy? Yes, we can. We know it is going to happen, we just do not know where or when. I recommend you start a safety program if you haven’t already. Have meetings and suggest ways and means of preventing these deaths. Have a budget line for safety. It takes less time, less emotional stress and less money to discuss prevention than to plan the funeral. To learn more about first responder safety, attend our next meeting. Please go to www.btsoa.org for more information. Become a member, no dues, no admission fee, just making it safe! Ex-Chief Jeff Bailes President Brookhaven Town Safety Officers Association 631-495-6418
Van Fire KO’d in West Sayville
The West Sayville Fire Department responded for a vehicle fire in the Waldbaum’s parking lot on Sunrise Highway in Oakdale. Upon arrival, Assistant Chief Gary Savino reported that he had an engine compartment fire in an unoccupied work van. Under the direction of Assistant Chief Lucus Domingo, the crews from West Sayville’s Engine 1 and Engine 8 made short work of the fire. -Fire News photo by Harry D’Onofrio
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Burns Sustained at Southampton Worker The Southampton Fire Department was toned out on December 4, 2013, for a structure fire on Greenfield Road in Shinnecock Hills. Chief Roy requested the Hampton Bays for RIT, North Sea for a truck to the scene and Bridgehampton to standby at the main house. Southampton ambulance and Hampton Bay’s rehab trailer were requested to the scene for firefighter assessment. Two occupants were home at the time of the fire and one of the occupants sustained severe burns. He was transported to Southampton Hospital and then transferred to Stony Brook University Burn Center. Crews had to deal with multiple small propane tanks that had valves blown off due to the extreme heat and others that were close to blowing. The Southampton Town Fire Marshals were called in to investigate the call. Chief Dennis Roy was in charge of the scene. -Fire News story by Chris Brenner -Fire News photo by Dennis Chuppe
Greenlawn Goes to Work The Greenlawn Fire Department responded to battle a house fire on Rosemont Court, on November 25, 2013. Firefighters were faced with a heavy smoke condition as flames rapidly broke out in the garage and spread up to the second floor of the home. An aggressive interior attack was initiated with two handlines through the front door. Mutual aid was provided by Huntington Manor and Dix Hills for two additional engines and crews. East Northport and Centerport had an engine and ambulance on standby for coverage at Greenlawn’s headquarters. The fire was controlled within an hour and there were no injuries reported. Units were under the command of Greenlawn Chief Scott Waryold, who was assisted by Assistant Chiefs Kurt Allen and Mike Zeis. The fire is under investigation by the Suffolk Police Arson Squad and Huntington Town Fire Marshal. Suffolk FRES Coordinators were also on the scene assisting. -Fire News story by Steve Silverman -Fire News photo by Nicole Crowley
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The Kings Park Fire Department responded to a working house fire on Eugene Drive on December 8, 2013, at 0850. Upon the arrival of firefighters, occupants were in the process of evacuating and attempting to retrieve the family dog. The dog was successfully removed by firefighters along with the occupants. Two occupants who were home at the time of the fire were transported by a Kings Park ambulance to Stony Brook University Medical Center suffering from smoke inhalation. The fire appeared to have started in a first-floor rear bedroom and extended to the second floor and attic. Mutual aid was called to the scene to assist Kings Park from Commack, East Northport and the Smithtown fire departments. It took over an hour to bring the blaze under control. The Smithtown fire marshal was called to investigate the cause, which did not appear to be suspicious in nature. -Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
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Light Fixture Sparks Greenlawn House Fire
Greenlawn Fire Department members responded to a house fire on Leigh Street, November 9, 2013, at 2235. The fire apparently was caused by a light fixture outside the front entrance that spread up the facade into the soffit and front roof. Quick action by Greenlawn firefighters quickly contained the fire and minimized damage to the home. Forty firefighters operated at the scene with an engine, two ladder trucks and an ambulance, with Huntington Manor providing an additional engine for FAST. Centerport dispatched an engine
for standby coverage at Greenlawn’s quarters. About eight residents safely escaped the house prior to the arrival of police and firefighters. Units were under the command of Chief Scott Waryold and First Assistant Chief Kurt Allen. The cause of fire appeared to be electrical in origin, and was under investigation by the Huntington Town Fire Marshal. Suffolk Fire-Rescue Coordinators were also at the scene assisting. - Fire News photos by Steve Silverman
Brave Efforts at Huntington Manor House Fire
The Huntington Manor Fire Department responded to a house fire on Fourth Avenue in Huntington Station on November 14, 2013, at 2335. Huntington Manor firefighters were able to make entry and rescued two women from separate second floor bedrooms. Despite the valiant rescue and resuscitation efforts by firefighters and rescue crews, the victims were pronounced dead at Huntington Hospital. A third family member was also transported to the hospital and treated for minor injuries. Nearly 100 firefighters and EMS personnel from eight departments assisted: Huntington, Greenlawn, Cold Spring Harbor, Halesite, Dix Hills, Melville and Syosset, and the Huntington Community First Aid Squad. Seven pieces of apparatus and six ambulances were dispatched to the scene, which was under the command of Chief Fred Steenson, Jr., who was supported by Second Assistant Chief Mike DePasquale. The Suffolk Police Arson and Homicide Squads, Suffolk County and Huntington Fire Marshals are investigating. - Fire News photos by Steve Silverman
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Fire News, January 2014, Page 31
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Page 32, Fire News, January 2014
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Wyandanch Wins Tough Battle
On November 27, 2013, the Wyandanch Fire Company was alerted for a house fire on Washington Avenue. Units arrived to find heavy smoke coming from a 2-1/2 story house that had four families living in it. Engine 1-10-3 was first due and stretched two handlines into the house. Additional arriving crews from Engines 1-10-1, 1-10-2, 1-10-4 and Heavy Rescues 1-10-7 and 1-10-8 began venting and searching the house. The fire was located in the 1-4 corner of the first floor initially, but due to the balloon construction of the house and plaster walls that were difficult to open, the fire spread quickly. Despite several aggressive pushes to get to the seat of the fire that was now on the second floor and attic, conditions worsened and all firefighters were removed from the building. The fire tore through the attic and through the roof, causing part of it to collapse. North Babylon’s ladder and West Babylon’s ladder put their master streams into operation, along with the deck gun from 110-3 and several handlines to extinguish the heavy fire load. The fire was declared under control in about an hour with the house a total loss. North Babylon also responded with Engine 1-8-4 and the East Farmingdale Fire Company was the RIT. First Assistant Chief Miller was in charge of the operation. -Fire News photos by Paul Mazza and D.Thomas
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Huntington FD Battles Lloyd Harbor Blaze The Huntington Fire Department was dispatched to a fire in a barn with an attached chicken coop on School Lane in the Village of Lloyd Harbor on November 15, 2013, at 2100. Firefighters arrived and found flames through the roof of the 15 x 30-foot wood-frame structure. Thirty firefighters from Huntington operating with two engines, a quint and heavy rescue, battled the blaze with a mutual aid engine from Cold Spring Harbor. The fire was controlled within a half-hour, under the command of Huntington Assistant Chief Robert Berry. An engine from Huntington Manor stood by at Huntington’s firehouse, with a Huntington Community ambulance crew at the scene for EMS standby. An unknown number of chickens and rabbits died in the fire. There were no injuries reported, and the Suffolk Police Arson Squad is investigating. Lloyd Harbor Police and Suffolk Fire-Rescue Coordinators were also on the scene. - Fire News photos by Steve Silverman
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Fire News, January 2014, Page 35
Centereach Arrives to Fully Involved Blaze
On November 27, 2013, the Centereach Fire Department received a aid from Selden, Ronkonkoma, and Farmingville. The flames call for a structure fire on North Howell Avenue. Units arriving on quickly spread throughout the home. Firefighters quickly and safescene found the building was fully involved. Chief Derek Anderson ly knocked down the blaze that caused major damage to the home. -Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone notified dispatch that he had a working fire and requested mutual
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Flames Destroy Islip Terrace Construction Project
On November 24, 2013, the Islip Terrace Fire Department was called to Providence Drive for a reported building fire in a condominium complex. First arriving units encountered a fully involved fire that was in a two-story condo under construction. An exterior attack was put into place due to the fire conditions and the second floor and roof collapsing. The fire was brought under control in about 40 minutes with two handlines and two tower ladders. There were no reported injuries and the cause was under investigation. Mutual aid was provided to the scene by East Islip, Central Islip, Bohemia and West Sayville. -Fire News photos by Paul Mazza and Kevin Parkan
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Fire News, January 2014, Page 37
Wyandanch Alerted for Worker
On November 15, 2013, the Wyandanch Fire Company was alerted about 0045 for a house fire on Lake Drive, which Suffolk County Police confirmed as a working fire. First arriving units encountered a two-story house with heavy fire showing from the 1-2 exposure on the second floor. Engine 1-10-3 was first due and stretched two lines into the house, followed by Engines 1-10-1, 1-10-2, 1-10-4 and
Heavy Rescue 1-10-7. The house was laddered, searched and vented with all searches being negative. The fire was brought under control in about 40 minutes with no reported injuries and the cause is under investigation. North Babylon was requested for RIT. Chief of Department Brown was in charge of the operation. -Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
FIRE RESEARCH CORPORATION (FRC) ACQUIRES FOAMPRO NESCONSET, NY / NEW BRIGHTON, MN (December 11, 2013) - Fire Research Corporation (FRC), a Safe Fleet company, is pleased to announce that it has completed the acquisition of FoamPro of New Brighton, MN - a business unit of Pentair Ltd. FRC President Toh Meng and FoamPro Sales Manager Mike Dupay announced the news to employees at both locations today. “The FoamPro acquisition will enhance FRC’s product leadership in the emergency market and leverage our strengths in engineering, electronics, and sales to provide better products and enhanced service to fire departments worldwide,” Meng said. FRC has purchased all FoamPro products and accessories and intends to move manufacturing to its facility in Nesconset, NY. Many of the FoamPro employees are expected to make the transition. This includes the sales manager, customer service/technical support team and regional managers. In addition, FRC intends to retain FoamPro’s worldwide network of independent representation. “Customers will still be able to interact with the same FoamPro personnel they have worked with for years. Our primary goal is to ensure customer satisfaction and make this as smooth
being disclosed. a transition as possible,” Meng said. About Fire Research Corporation “Existing FoamPro lead and delivery times, FRC, founded in 1968 and headquartered in terms, discounts, and pricing will be maintained through the transition,” said Dupay. Nesconset, NY, develops, manufactures and “The FoamPro brand will also remain markets a full portfolio of fire safety equipment including foam proportioning systems, pressure governors and controls, instrument displays, LED and halogen scene lighting, and fire station accessories. The company's paddlewheel flow sensor technology is the most widely adopted in the fire industry. For more information on FRC please visit www.fireresearch.com. About Safe Fleet Headquartered in Belton, MO, Safe Fleet is unchanged.” The FoamPro acquisition is the first for the the leading provider of safety solutions for fleet newly created Safe Fleet which was formed in vehicles. Safe Fleet manufactures products that September when ROM Corporation and SMI enhance the safety and productivity of a variety Corporation merged. Within the fire and EMS of fleets including emergency vehicles, refrigermarkets Safe Fleet most notably owns: ROM, ated trucks and trailers, utility vehicles, and school and transit bus fleets. Safe Fleet is a marFRC and the Bustin brands. “The corporate vision of Safe Fleet is to ket leader in the majority of its end markets, provide safety solutions for fleet vehicles of all helping its customers improve the safety and types,” said Jeff Hupke, President of Safe efficiency of their fleets, their operators, pasFleet. “By adding FoamPro to the portfolio, we sengers and pedestrians. The Safe Fleet family greatly enhance the number of product solu- of brands includes ROM, Bustin, Prime Design, FRC, Specialty Manufacturing (SMI), tions a fire department can choose from.” Financial terms of the purchase are not SpecFlor, Pretoria, Transpec and FoamPro.
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FireNews.com
North Babylon’s Fulton Street Fire Revisited On November 10, 2013, the North Babylon Fire Company received a call for a car fire on Fulton Street. As third assistant Chief James Harrington approached the location, it was obvious North Babylon had more than a vehicle fire, and he directed responding apparatus they had a working house fire. First in Engine 1-8-2 was directed to pick up a hydrant. Dispatchers requested an RIT crew from Wyandanch. First Assistant Chief Rob Cabano arrived and directed incoming units and crews. The chief sent lines in the front entrance, as well as outside lines to suppress the car fire, which was parked under an overhang of the second floor. As firefighters made entry, they found a Russell Terrier puppy in a cage, which firefighters brought out. The homeowners were not home at the time of the fire. Fire and police officials are investigating the cause of the fire. -Fire News photo by Stephen Schaefer
Nassau County Fire Marshals Called to Hicksville Hicksville firefighters extinguished this backhoe that was on fire in a sump. The Nassau County Fire Marshal’s office was called to investigate the suspicious fire. -Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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Page 42, Fire News, January 2014
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Flames Show in Brentwood
The Brentwood Fire Department was activated for a residential structure fire on Sherman Street. Upon arrival, Chief William Peterson declared a working fire. There was heavy fire showing from the 4 side of the single-story, ranch. Mutual aid was requested from the Commack Fire Department for a FAST unit. Bay Shore stood by at Brentwood’s headquarters. Three lines were stretched and put into operation. There were no reported injuries, however Brentwood Legion Ambulance and Commack Ambulance were on stand-by in case of an emergency. Also on scene were the Islip Town Fire Marshals. Suffolk County Police Arson Squad was requested to respond to the scene for an investigation. -Fire News photos by Rich Stark
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Fire News, January 2014, Page 43
EMS ACROSS THE ISLAND Two Cars Collide in Glen Cove The Glenwood Fire Department responded to a two-car motor vehicle accident on Glen Cove Avenue on November 27, 2013. One person was transported to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. -Fire News photo by Tim Asbell
Oceanside Handles Overturn The Oceanside Fire Department was assigned to an overturned auto on Lawson Boulevard with a report that a person was still inside the car. When the chief arrived, he confirmed the pin was negative but the driver needed medical attention. This was a single-car accident. The driver was transported to South Nassau Hospital. -Fire News photo by www.BillBennettPhoto.com
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Page 44, Fire News, January 2014
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Maybe Try Reverse Next Time? Recently, Suffolk Police responded to a report of a car crashing into the US Post Office building at Second Avenue and Third Street in Brentwood. The driver was uninjured and reportedly shifted the car into drive before accelerating into the building. - Fire News photo by Edmund J. Coppa
Medevac After Massapequa MVA Recently, emergency service crews reported to a two-car accident at Broadway and Connecticut Avenue in Massapequa. Fire units freed a female driver from her overturned vehicle and she was airlifted to a nearby hospital. - Fire News photo by Edmund J Coppa
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Island Park Responds to MVA
The Island Park Fire Department responded to a signal 100 (entrapment with possible car fire). Chief Whalen was one of the first units on scene and confirmed a single-car motor vehicle accident; a car into a tree with a working car fire with negative entrapment. At the scene, responders had one minor aided who was transported to South Nassau Community Hospital by Island Park Rescue 222. All units were under the command of 1st Assistant Chief Madden and were up within a half an hour of operations. -Fire News photo by Zachary B. Grunther
Two Cars Collide in Hicksville
Recently, the Hicksville Fire Department responded to a two-car motor vehicle accident on New South Road that injured one person. Crews secured the scene and transported one person to a local hospital. -Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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
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75th Anniversary of NC Fire Commission Two Anniversaries for the Price of One
The Nassau County Fire Commission celebrated its 75th anniversary with a barbecue held at Hicksville’s Station 3 on W. John Street. Nassau County Fire Communications was also on hand to celebrate their 40th anniversary. The barbecue was sponsored and put together by members of the Fire Commission's 10th Battalion. During the picnic, County Executive Ed Mangano presented a citation to honor the occasion. Fire Commission Chairman Walter H. Weltner, Jr, of Valley Stream FD, also presented a plaque which lists the names of each chairman of the commission from its founding in 1938. Also present was Fire Marshal Scott Tusa, and the head of FIRECOM, Tim Placilla. - Fire News photos by Steve Grogan, Lynbrook FD
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Serious Injuries at East Meadow MVA The driver of a motor vehicle was seriously injured early October 19, 2013, after a single-car accident in East Meadow. East Meadow firefighters had to use hydraulic tools to remove the trapped driver from the vehicle after it struck a tree on Prospect Avenue. -Fire News photo by www.FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Driving the Wrong Way Causes MVA On November 9, 2013, at 0104, the Bethpage Fire Department responded to an auto accident with a car fire on the Seaford Oyster Bay Expressway. The car was driving the wrong way on the expressway and collided with another vehicle before catching on fire. There were no injuries at the scene and firefighters extinguished the car fire. -Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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Fire News, January 2014, Page 49
Hicksville Handles MVA on S. Oyster Bay Road Three people were injured in a two-car accident at the intersection of South Oyster Bay Road and Old Country Road on October 15, 2013. The Hicksville Fire Department responded to the alarm and called the Bethpage Fire Department to have an additional ambulance respond to the scene. None of the injuries were reported to be serious. -Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
Multiple Injuries in North Valley Stream Multiple people were injured in a three-vehicle accident on Franklin Avenue near Agnes Court in North Valley Stream. A small delivery truck, a car, and an SUV collided. The driver of the car was pinned in the vehicle. Malverne Fire Department units responded to the scene for the use of the extrication tools. -Fire News photo by www.FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Medford Handles Afternoon MVA The Medford Fire Department and Medford Volunteer Ambulance Corps responded to a hit and run motor vehicle accident on November 22, 2013. The driver of an older model passenger vehicle hit a late model pickup truck and then fled the scene on foot. She was later located by Suffolk County Police and taken into custody for suspicion of operating under the influence. There were no injuries to the driver of the pickup. -Fire News photo by By Tim Asbell
Quick Work at Oceanside MVA The Oceanside Fire Department was assigned to an overturned auto on Mott Street. The driver was still in the auto when the unit arrived. The driver was removed and all units were up after a halfhour. -Fire News photo by www.BillBennettPhoto.com
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Fire News, January 2014, Page 51
Wedding Bells
Wedding Bells in East Meadow On November 2 2013, Firefighter Kevin Weeks of East Meadow Fire Department’s Engine Company 1 tied the knot with East Meadow Ladies Auxiliary Member Kelly Callan. The ceremony was held at the Milleridge Inn -Fire News photo by Joe Virgilio
Congratulations!
Best Wishes!
Matt Palmer and his bride, Sarah, members of the Brookhaven Fire Department. Brookhaven provided the honor guard for the couple, who married September 14, 2013, at St. Judes Church in Mastic Beach. - Fire News photo by JoAnn Stephani
Congratulations to Joelie Wilk and T.J. Karlya who were recently married. T.J is a member of North Patchogue Fire Department. Joelie is an member of Medford Volunteer Ambulance. Best wishes to Joelie and T.J. for a long and happy life together. -Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
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Page 52, Fire News, January 2014
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Driver Air Lifted in Massapequa Recently, the Massapequa Fire Department responded to a motor vehicle accident with a reported overturn and entrapment on Broadway at Connecticut Avenue. The operator of the vehicle was extricated and air lifted to Nassau University Medica Center. -Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
Dual Response in Farmingdale On November 5, 2013, the Farmingdale Fire Department was alerted for a multi-vehicle accident on Hempstead Turnpike. The Bethpage Fire Department was also alerted through a new dual response plan to respond to the call. One person was injured and crews secured the cars. -Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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Fire News, January 2014, Page 53
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, sending the taxi into the front of an auto body shop. Engine's 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 non-life threatening injuries. -Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
One Injured at East Islip MVA The East Islip Fire Department responded to a motor vehicle accident on November 18, 2013, at approximately 2000, on Connetquot Avenue near East Madison Street involving a pickup truck and a car. One person was transported to Southside Hospital with injuries. -Fire News photo by Kevin Parkan
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Page 54, Fire News, January 2014
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Fire Prevention in Westhampton Beach The Westhampton Beach Fire Department sponsored their Fire Safety Trailer for the elementary school during the week of October 15, 2013. All classes were given a tour, video and hands on as to what they should do during a fire in their home. Tracy Martin was in charge of the trailer and had several firemen help out during the week. -Fire News photo by Cody Hoyle
Fire Prevention Day in Syosset Town of Oyster Bay Councilman Chris Coschignano (fourth from left), Councilman Joseph Pinto (left), Councilwoman Michele Johnson (second from left), and Town Clerk James Altadonna Jr. (third from left) attended the Syosset Fire Department’s Annual Fire Prevention Day and Open House at the department’s headquarters. The event is held to educate the public on eliminating fire hazards within homes, as well what to do in case of a fire in order to get out of a burning building safely. There were displays, drills and fun activities for children. Also pictured is (left to right) Syosset Fire Department Commissioner Robert Swanson, Commissioner Richard Roseo, Vice-chairman Roy Dhawan, Chairman Giovanni Graceffa, Commissioner Thomas Feeney, Jr., Lou Imbroto, who represented Nassau County Executive Mangano, Commissioner of the Oyster Bay Water District Mackenzie and District Court Judge Fischer. -Fire News photo by Brian Devine
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Seaford Hosts Open House On October 23, 2013, the Seaford Fire Department hosted an open house to demonstrate the many facets of fire and emergency protection it renders to the community and to remind the community of Fire Prevention Month. Firefighters and officers used the “smoke house” to demonstrate exit drills in the home, and to plan for two ways out of your home, the advanced life support systems used by the medical technicians of the department and the demonstration of a controlled fire in a home. Under the supervision of Seaford officers members of the Seaford FD Explorer’s Group donned firefighting gear and extinguished a fire. There was also a demonstration by firefighters on the use of hydraulic tools at the scene of an auto accident. -Fire News photo by Jack Healy
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Selden Fire Prevention -Fire News photos by Rob Monteleone
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Fire Prevention Week In Melville
On October 13, 2013, the Melville Fire Department hosted their Annual Open House at the Waldbaums Shopping Center on Walt Whitman Road. Hundreds of spectators were on hand to witness the professionalism and expertise on extinguishing an auto fire and extricating a victim from an MVA, using power tools, and cutting off the roof to get to the victim, stabilizing him and wheeling him to the ambulance... all done in full gear. Ex-Chief Frank Ambrosio was in charge of the program. -Fire News photos by Tom Pesce
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Fire News, January 2014, Page 57
Wetdown Held
A wetdown was held for Oyster Bay Engine 552 on September 15, 2013, at Fireman’s Field in Oyster Bay. - Fire News photo by Alex VanSantvoord
New Pumper Christened
On November 17, 2013, the members of Vulcan Company 2 of the Lynbrook Fire Department christened and wet down their new pumper at a ceremony held at their firehouse on Denton Avenue. In the photo, Honorary Chief Charles Weiler christened the new pumper with the traditional bottle of champagne on the front bumper. The pumper was then wet down by visiting firefighters, and Monsignor William Brezlowski of Our Lady of Peace blessed the new rig. Congratulations to the members of Vulcan Company. -Fire News photo by Brian Grogan
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Obituary
Frank Sendlewski Mourned in Riverhead Former Riverhead resident and dedicated volunteer Frank Sendlewski died on November 20, 2013, at the Nursing Home of Murphy Medical in Murphy, NC He was 87 years of age. Frank was born in Polish Town (Riverhead) on February 22, 1926, where he spent many years operating his own shoe repair business after which he worked until his retirement as a sheet metal worker at the Plum Island Animal Disease Center. Frank served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and was assigned to the SS William D. Burnham, from which he survived its sinking by German U-978 on Thanksgiving Day, 1944. Frank was a past Commander of the Riverhead Veterans of Foreign Wars post 2476. Sendlewski was also a 66-year member and ex-captain of the Riverhead Fire Department Eagle Hose Company 4, where his brother and past Commissioner Thomas Jr. and his father and original charter member Thomas Sr. also volunteered. During his retirement years, his stature and his long silver hair and beard allowed him to bring enjoyment to many in his well suited role as Santa Claus. Pictured from left to right is Thomas Sendlewski, Jr., Thomas Sendlewski, Sr., and Frank Sendlewski at an undated Riverhead Fire Department Installation Dinner.
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Fire News, January 2014, Page 59
Up Close & Personal
Lieutenant Brad Field of the Wantagh Fire Department. -Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
John “Chip� Bancroft was re-elected as Chief Engineer of the Westhampton Fire Deparment.
Stephen Attard of the Farmingville Fire Department, Station 1. Stephen is an EMT and has been a volunteer firefighter for over 10 years. -Fire News photo taken with love by Stephen's daughter Liz
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Farmingville Responds To Working Car Fire On November 23, 2013 the Farmingville Fire Department responded to a working car fire on Portion Road by the US Post Office. The call came in around 2100 and was extinguished without incident. -Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
Car and Garage Fire in Hempstead The Hempstead Fire Department responded to the report of a car fire on Union Place on October 25, 2103. The blaze extended to a nearby garage but firefighters quickly extinguished the fire. - Fire News photo by Lou Minutoli
FireNews.com
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. First Assistant Chief Keuchler was the first unit to arrive on scene 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 and Andrew McShane
Fire News, January 2014, Page 61
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Huntington Chief’s Council Installs Officers The Town of Huntington Fire Chief’s Council recently swore in their officers at a ceremony held at the Greenlawn Fire Department. Huntington Town Councilwoman Susan Berland, right, administered the oath of office to the Executive Board, from left, Treasurer Gary Hontz of Eaton’s Neck FD, Secretary David Mohr of Huntington Community First Aid Squad, Second Vice President John McDonough of Northport FD, and President Scott Waryold of Greenlawn FD. Absent was First Vice President John McKenna of Northport FD. - Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
Huntington Town Fire Chiefs Present Scholarships The Town of Huntington Fire Chief’s Council recently presented their annual scholarship awards to students affiliated with the town fire and rescue services. Council President Scott Waryold of Greenlawn presented the scholarships to (from left), Dylan Angevine of Huntington, Nicole Ciafardini of Greenlawn, Megan Waring of Centerport, Chief Scott Waryold, Daniel Paccione of Commack, David Lindley of Northport, Joseph Nardelli of Huntington Manor, and Brianna Simpson of Centerport. -Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
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Fire News, January 2014, Page 63
MCI Drill Challenges Responders in Setauket
The Setauket Fire Department, in conjunction with the Three Village School District held a Mass Casualty Drill at Ward Melville High School on November 3, 2013. The well planned drill involved a fire that was in the pool pump room of the school, with a possible hazardous material spill in the room. Students and teachers participated in the scenario as victims in the drill that was organized by a committee consisting of Setauket Chief of Department Anthony Todaro, exChief Kevin Yoos, ex-Chief Paul DiBiase, ex-Chief Leo DeBobes, ex-Captain Nick Spata, EMS Lt. MJ Stark and Fire District Manager Dave Sterne. Representatives from the Three Village School District included Security and School District Safety Coordinator Jack Blaum, Principal Alan Baum, who was the school district Incident Commander in the unified command, along with Assistant Principal Mike Owen. Agencies that participated in the drill were: Setauket Fire Department, Stony Brook Fire Department, Terryville Fire Department Port Jefferson Volunteer Ambulance, Stony Brook Volunteer Ambulance, Suffolk County EMS, Suffolk County Emergency Management (MERV Unit), and the Town of Brookhaven Fire Marshals Office. The Sound Beach Fire Department and Stony Brook University Hospital EMS provided district coverage during the event. -Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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Page 64, Fire News, January 2014
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Happy Chanukah On December 2, 2013, the West Hempstead and Lakeview fire departments held their annual Chanukah ride through both towns, stopping at certain spots so resident could say hello and the children could get a fire hat from the members. The ride ended up at Halls Pond on Hempstead Avenue, where the lighting of the Menorah was performed. A good time was had by all. -Fire News photo by Bill D’Alessandro
Passing on the Skills Deer Park Firefighters teaching future Deer Park firefighters, The Juniors, what it takes to use hydraulic tools when doing extrication. - Fire News photo by Ray Stubbings
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Fire News, January 2014, Page 65
Levittown 9-11 Ceremony Remembers Heroes
The Levittown Fire Department held their annual 9-11 service honoring all who died 12 years ago, as well as Ronald T. Kerwin, Chief of the Levittown Fire Department, and Lieutenant of FDNY Squad 288. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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239 Years of Service Pictured is Harry Pomasanoff, who has 60 years of service, Jeffrey Frey with 46 years of service, Edward Vicik, with 70 years, and Raymond Robinson with 63 years of service. The photo was taken at this year’s Eastport parade. -Fire News photos by Jim Dunn
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Fire News, January 2014, Page 67
FDs Light up the Huntington Holiday Parade Area fire departments turned out in full force for the fourth annual Town of Huntington Holiday Parade held November 30, 2013, in Huntington Village. Crowds lined the streets of New York Avenue and Main Street to welcome Santa and all his helpers from fire departments and other organizations that participated. The event featured a spectacular and dazzling parade with fire engines and floats decked out in holiday lights and decorations, as well as music and live entertainment. The event was sponsored by the Huntington and Huntington Manor Fire Departments, Huntington Town Fire Chiefs Council and the Town of Huntington. The Greenlawn Fire Department won the best FD float for their portrayal of the Holiday Toys theme. - Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
Parade Lights the Way in Southampton The Southampton Chamber of Commerce in conjunction with the Southampton Fire Department recently held its annual Festival of Lights parade. It was a huge success with record crowds lining the streets and many ambulance and fire departments attending the event. The prize for best decorated apparatus went to the North Sea Fire Department. A fun night was had by all. A special thanks you to all of the departments that attended the parade. -Fire News story by Chris Brenner
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Up Close & Personal
Rocky Point Assistant Chief Kevin Bader and girlfriend Kaila LaFlair -Fire News photo by Jim Dunn
Members of the West Islip Fire Department Fire Police Company operating at the Brentwood mulch fire on November 24, 2013. -Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Terryville ex-Chief and Commissioner Bernie Reynolds. -Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
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Fire News, January 2014, Page 69
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 comprised of 38 Junior Fire Departments and Fire Explorer programs affiliated with volunteer fire departments in Nassau County, brings together all these organizations to promote camaraderie, community service and training opportunities to help develop future volunteer 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 photos by Mike Gunnin - Fire News story by Steve Grogan
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Page 70, Fire News, January 2014
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Blankets for Wounded Warriors Stitches from the Heart, a Lynbrook organization, presented 450 sewn blankets to Nassau County Firefighters Operation Wounded Warrior, which were distributed by Nassau firefighters in hospitals at Fort Bragg and Camp Lejuene, NC, and Bethesda, MD. At the blanket presentation, which was held at the Lynbrook Public Library, NCFF-OWW Chairman Joseph O’Grady of the Floral Park Fire Department, third from left, was joined, from left to right by, Ken Fairben of Floral Park, Richard Straub and Kevin Bien both of Lynbrook, as they met with twice wounded former US Army Captain James VanTach. Chairman O’Grady also showed videos of what Nassau firefighters are doing for our wounded warriors. -Fire News photo by Steve Grogan
Giving to Local Wounded Warriors At a presentation at the Nassau County Firefighters Museum in Mitchell Field, Joseph O’Grady of the Floral Park Fire Department and Chairman of Nassau County Firefighters Operation Wounded Warrior, right, and Vice-Chairman Tom Smith of the New Hyde Park Fire Department, left, presented $5400 in King Kullen gift cards to Joe Sledge, center, Public Affairs Officer for the Department of Veterans Affairs at the Northport Veterans Affairs Medical Center to give to wounded veterans for the holiday season. The King Kullen Grocery Company donated $400 of the total amount that was distributed. -Fire News photo by Steve Grogan
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Fire News, January 2014, Page 71
Hope for the Warriors
On November 10, 2013, a fundraiser was held at the Constantino Brumidi Lodge #2211, Sons of Italy. Three hundred guests and local dignitaries attended the fundraiser. The mission of Hope for the Warriors is to enhance the quality of life for post 9/11 service members. The organization reaches out to the families and families of the fallen. They help those who have sustained physical and psychological wounds in the line of duty. The Hope for the Warriors program is dedicated to restoring a sense of self, restoring the family unit and restoring hope for our service members and our military families. -Fire News photos by Jim Dunn
Babylon F.D. Receives the Annual Conklin Award On September 29, 2013, the Babylon Fire Department was presented the Nathaniel Conklin award for volunteerism for their work in Super Storm Sandy. Nathaniel Conklin played a principle role in developing the area called South Huntington, and he named the area New Babylon which caught on. In 1830 the Post Office officially changed it from South Huntington to Babylon. The award is usually given to an individual by the Nathaniel Conklin Society in recognition of untiring community service to the Village of Babylon. This year the Conklin Award steering committee decided to break tradition and award a group of people. The Babylon Fire Department was unanimously selected to receive the award for their bravery and dedication to service displayed throughout and after Super Storm Sandy. Firefighters extinguished two major structure fires in chest high water, and during the storm responded to over 100 alarms. Many thanks also go out to the mutual aid departments who provided assistance during the storm. The Babylon Fire Department is extremely honored and proud to have been presented this most prestigious and distinguished award. -Fire News photos by Brad Maier
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Jack ‘Toby’ Meyer, Patchogue Firefighter, 1935-Present A major highlight of Toby’s life began during the Depression and has lasted throughout his life and his membership in the Vanguard Hose Company. He remembers joining the Vanguards right after he turned 18 in 1935. “We lived right across the street from the firehouse and my brothers, Barnie and George, were both members. For as long as I can remember, I wanted to join the Vanguard Company.” Toby’s brother Orv and Tom also joined the Vanguard Company. Toby recalled, “Mom would get out of the way when the alarm went off across the street. The boys would all run and jump out of the windows to get to the truck before it pulled out.” Ask Toby about his longtime membership in the Vanguard firehouse and he will tell you what an important part of his life it has been. He still goes to the firehouse on Park Street almost every morning and signs in for calls as often as he can. The only interruption to his service was during WWII, when he served in the Army Air Corp as a crew chief in a B-17 squadron. Jack Meyer, at age 22, became the chief driver of a 1927 American LaFrance 2000 6PM pumper. He remembers racing the LaFrance at the 1938 World’s Fair at 80 mph. Another vivid memory was fighting the “super-fire” that lasted two days and destroyed the four corners of Patchogue in the late 40s. Today, Jack “Toby” Meyer is the oldest active fireman to ever serve in the Patchogue Fire Department. “The Vanguards have been an extension of my family, they keep me going.”
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Grass Roots Efforts Can Do It Hauppauge has a typical Long Island fire department. We cover 14 square miles of industrial, residential and government facilities, with a daytime population exceeding 65,000. This exposure is covered by 120 volunteers who are well trained and equipped and they respond to 900-plus alarms per year. Like all volunteering and career fire departments, we live by the rules of hard work, perseverance and loyalty. On September 11, 2001, we lost two of our volunteers who were both members of FDNY. Both men responded and became part of the 343 firefighters who lost their lives. Peter Brennan and Ray Meisenheimer were dedicated volunteers, family men, as well as members of New York City’s bravest. We talked for years of putting a memorial up in their name and it just became a lot of talk. Finally, one of our Chiefs, Ray Germaine, was able to obtain a piece of steel from the World Trade Center. It arrived in November 2011 and sat in the shed until two of our members finally took the bull by the horns and started a program to build a memorial. Walter Mayer and Bobby Wind, both retired FDNY members, came up with the plan, spending countless hours to raise money and get it designed by a friend of Walter, Joe Graziano. This design was approved by all members of the department. In addition to the piece of steel, through the efforts of an ex-member, we were able to obtain a piece of the Pentagon facia and a piece of shale from Shanksville, PA, all of which are displayed in prominent locations with appropriate brass placques denoting their origin. This proves that dedicated personnel can, on their own, envision, raise funds and build a magnificant project. The approximate cost was going to be about $100,000, which in any fire department is hard to raise without financial help from the governing body, but they pulled it off and were able to obtain funds from the members themselves, our benevolent group and some commercial donors. Walter and Bobby also sold bricks for the walkway with the names of the donors on them. Construction was started in early August 2013 by Boulder Way Landscaping (Joe’s company) and it was completed the morning of September 11, 2013. We dedicated the monument that night with a moving ceremony. We believe it is one of the finest 9/11 memorials in the country. They proved that with dedication and hard work, you can accomplish just about anything using a grass roots approach. -Fire News photos by department photographer
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MOTLEY CREWS OF THE MONTH
Riders of Fire at their November meeting. -Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
Members from the Levittown Fire Department. -Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
Smiling for the camera in Levittown. -Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
Farmingville Ladies Auxillary. -Fire News photo by Jim Dunn
Farmingville Firefighters Matt Smith and son Matt. -Fire News photo by Jim Dunn
Yaphank firefighters after a church fire on December 8, 2013. -Fire News photo by Dennis Whittam
The Point Lookout-Lido Fire Department came out to support Dee Snider’s Ride, which benefits Long Island Cares, Inc. -Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
Members of the Kings Park Fire Department after a recent house fire. -Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
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