Fire News Long Island October, 2024

Fighting EVFires

SOPpoints to be considered when fighting electric vehicle (EV)fires.

See story on pages 12-13

Fatality at Brentwood House Fire

A77-year-old man, succumbed to his injuries and a family member was transported to the hospital.

See story on page 22

Oceanside MixedResidency Fire

The Oceanside Fire Department, along with mutual aid, operated at a working fire on Long Beach Road.

See story on page 30

Fatality at Lynbrook MVA

One person was killed and two others injured in a multi-vehicle accident on Sunrise Highway.

See story on page 50

SPECIALFOCUS

Aspecial section dealing with legal and financial issues in the Fire and EMS services.

See stories on pages 57 to 76

Obituary

Franklin Square’s and Coram’s Frederic Walther

See story on page 129

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New Hyde Park House Fire

On July 4, 2024, at approximately 2220, the New Hyde Park Fire Department was dispatched to a house fire on South 12th Street. Upon arrival of the first-due units, an extinguished fire was found along the side of the house and garage. While crews were overhauling the side of the house and checking forextension, fire was found along the roofline. Crews quickly knocked down the remaining fire before continuing to conduct overhaul. With the assistance of crews from West Hempstead, South Floral Park and Mineola, the fire was quickly placed undercontrol underthe direction of Chief of Department Barbagallo.

- Fire News photos by www.OverTheEdgePhotography.com

Attic Fire in Jericho

Late on August 5, 2024, the Jericho Fire Department, along with mutual aid companies, operated at the scene of a fire on CedarSwamp Road off Fruitledge Road. Firefighters stretched two handlines and put at least one into operation forfire in the attic of a singlestory private dwelling that was set well off the roadway. All occupants made it safely out of the home and the cause of the fire was under investigation. Jericho Assistant Chief Ketsoglou had command.

- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com

Fast Stop in East Meadow

In the early morning of August 27, 2024, the East Meadow Fire Department and mutual aid companies, operated at a well involved house fire on Prospect Avenue and Marian Court. The call was originally received through a medical alert company who advised that the subscriberwas reporting a fire at the location. Firefighters put three handlines into operation and had the main body of fire quickly knocked down. All occupants made it safely out of the home and there were no reported injuries. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation and all fire department units were underthe command of East Meadow Chief of Department Walsh.

- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com and OverTheEdgePhotography.com

Franklin Square & Munson House Fire

On the afternoon of August 23, 2024, the Franklin Square and Munson Fire Department operated at a house fire on Goldenrod Avenue off Roosevelt Street. Firefighters put one handline into operation fora fire at the rearof a two-story private dwelling. The main body of fire was quickly extinguished and there were no reported injuries. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation and all fire department units were underthe command of Franklin Square and Munson Fire Department Chief of Department Multari.

- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com, Bill D’Alessandro and FirstOnScenePhotos.com

Food Truck Inferno

The Lynbrook Fire Department was called out at 2046 on August 23, 2024, for a food truck fire in the backyard parking area of a warehouse on Denton Avenue. Vulcan Company, whose firehouse is down the block, was the first to respond and dropped a line to the building.

Firefighters, under the command of First Assistant Chief Clayton Murphy, found the food truck ablaze behind the warehouse and up a long driveway. They immediately stretched a hoseline down the driveway to attack the fire in the rear compartment area of the truck. They also ordered a second hoseline brought up. Second Assistant Chief James D’Giambattista directed the firefighting efforts. The fire in the rear of the truck may have been caused by a leaking propane tank. As firefighters were working it is believed that a second propane tank on the other side of the truck ignited the gas tank which then spread burning gasoline into the parking lot, forcing firefighters to back up their hose operations to a safer distance.

At one time, the fire was 20 feet in the air. While two lines were fighting the fire, a third was also stretched as a back-up from Vulcan Company.

The Nassau County Fire Marshal responded and took possession of two propane tanks taken out of the rear compartment after the fire. Firefighters were at the scene for about two hours. Assistant Chief Murphy praised the firefighters, “For their efforts in a what was a very dangerous situation and which could have been much worse.”

- Fire News story and photography by Steve Grogan

Suffolk Credit Union Supports First Responders Through Education Scholarships

Suffolk Credit Union recently held an awards ceremony honoring Suffolk County Community college students by proudly presenting nine scholarships totaling $43,825. Over the lifetime of the scholarship program, over $221,575 has been awarded to 45 individuals.

Rebecca Marcus received the Continuing Student Scholarship. Anursing student at Suffolk County Community College, she is a former volunteer Firefighter/EMTin the Hauppauge Fire Department where her grandfather, Louis Marcus, is a member.

Dunavan David received the Michael Reilly Scholarship honoring the Patchogue Fire Department member who tragically lost his life in the line of duty. David is in the Graphic Design program at Suffolk County Community College and has been extremely involved in community service. David’s grandfather was a longtime member of the American Legion Ambulance Corp., and brought David’s dad into the company at age 18, where he remains today, in what is now the Hampton Bays Ambulance Corp.

Jack Serrentino received the Navy SEALLieutenant Michael Murphy Memorial Scholarship honoring Navy SEALand American Hero Lieutenant Michael Murphy of Patchogue. Jack was a Junior Firefighter and is now a probationary member of the Miller Place Fire Department. He is studying Criminal Justice and is an avid musician.

Uniondale Car Fire

On the night of August 25, 2024, the Uniondale Fire Department operated on the scene of a carfire in front of the Turtle Hook Middle School on Jerusalem Avenue. Firefighters put one handline into operation off Uniondale Engine 753 and had the fire quickly extinguished. All occupants made it safely out of the vehicle and there were no reported injuries. Uniondale Chief of Department Martinez had command.

- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com

Being Prepared forEVFires

By Matthew Pruitt EVGoat01@gmail.com

Firefighters are no strangers to new technologies. In fact, most of us pride ourselves on being able to improve our tactics and strategies using the most up-to-date, state-ofthe-art equipment. It’s really no different in any other industry. Since the late 90s, car manufacturers around the world have been working tirelessly to bring consumers an engine that is safe, energy efficient, and great for our environment. The internal combustion engine evolution from the Model T, to the Prius and now to fully electric vehicles has created a need in the fire service to be prepared for some of the most dangerous, albeit somewhat low frequency, fires we’ve ever encountered. The infrequency and increased risk of electric vehicle fires makes it impossible to ignore and necessary to train for.

Extinguishing the typical, traditional car fire is pretty straightforward. We pull a bumper line, and go to work. Electric vehicle fires are vastly different, as you will read in this article. Extrication of a patient trapped inside an electric vehicle is delicate, for sure. You have to be extremely careful when cutting on an electric vehicle. The orange cables may be charged if the car’s safety mechanism has failed. Also the top of the battery tray, which is basically the entire floorpan of the car, could be charged. And, in my experience, thermal runaway can begin as soon as an external source - the accident or your extrication equipment - damages the battery, so you have to consider how long it has been since the accident happened. In addition, when fighting EV fires, it seems that the more water we put on them, the longer they burn. That’s true actually because the water only cools the battery cells, and will simply slow down the fire, causing it to last for hours and hours because, when burning, lithium-ion batteries create their own oxygen. Just like a fish is able to “breathe” underwater, so is a lithium-ion battery. You can’t drown either one of them.

lably hot and propagates to the next cell, eventually spreading to all the cells in the module. Even at the point of ignition, there may be no way to know where, exactly, the problem starts.

Also, unlike traditional car fires, when an EVis in thermal runaway, the motor (s) lock down. As you may know, an electric car’s battery weighs at least 1,000 pounds by itself. When added to the regular weight of a car, you’re looking at a paper weight that weighs up to 9,000 pounds. This excessive weight of a car with locked wheels presents a plethora of difficulties, to say the least.

So, what do we do? How do we fight an EVfire? What are the safest and most effective tactics? After having the opportunity to train on live EVfires in controlled environments, and having responded to multiple EVrelated incidents, we have been able to test some strategies. Some have worked better than others. I’d like to share with you some of the most impactful takeaways from my experiences.

(this is only the latest measurement of an EV fire temp, it could be hotter).

First and foremost, you will need to always make sure to wear your gear when approach-

“The heat of a Li-Ion battery fire is a threat, but an equally dangerous threat is the toxic emissions from the fire”

The heat of a Li-Ion battery fire is a threat, but an equally dangerous threat is the toxic emissions from the fire. You need to be aware that Li-Ion batteries in thermal runaway can give off hydrogen fluoride gas. When we apply water to the gas, it becomes hydrofluoric acid. Hydrofluoric acid is a colorless, odorless liquid that is acutely dangerous. It can damage your eyes, your lungs and your skin. The danger is that hydrofluoric acid is slow burning. You may not have symptoms of exposure for several hours.

Another difference is that getting water to the origin of the fire is nearly impossible. The composition of an electric vehicle battery tray looks something like this: thousands of battery cells are put together in water-tight sets called modules, the modules are placed into a battery tray which is encapsulated in a watertight shell. There are vents in the tray to allow smoke and gases to escape, but the vents will not allow water or foam inside the tray. Think of a battery failure inside the tray like a winddriven fire. One damaged cell gets uncontrol-

ing a wrecked electric vehicle, even if you don’t see fire or smoke. I have witnessed an electric vehicle go from not burning, to fully involved, within minutes. On the other hand, I have also seen this progression take several hours. Time starts the instant that the battery is damaged, not when you learn about the incident. When you respond to an EVemergency, you have to be dispatched, get out of the station and make it to the scene. You may not know the exact timeline, so it’s always best practice to be safe and wear your gear. It is also important to consider how hot an EV fire actually is. An electric vehicle that is in thermal runaway can burn as hot as 2700°F

Now, you’re on scene, have your gear on, and you’re ready to put some water on the fire. What’s best? In my experience, I have found the use of an EVblanket to be vitally important. The EVblanket is designed to limit the oxygen available to the fire, but the burning batteries create their own oxygen so the blanket itself will not extinguish the fire. Before deploying the blanket, you must knock down the fire on the inside of the vehicle just like you would on a traditional car fire. This step immediately begins cooling the car so that it will be less likely to burn through the blanket. Once the car is extinguished, throw the blanket over the vehicle. Make sure to throw the blanket high so that it is not damaged by sharp edges or parts of the vehicle that may be protruding. EV blankets, depending on the brand (Continued on next page)

Being Prepared for EVFires...continued

and type, come in a variety of sizes. Depending on the brand of blanket that your department uses, your team may need to open up the blanket before use to mark the front, rear and center. Some brands of EVblankets have already marked the front and rear of the blanket for you, which would save you a step. Sometimes EV blankets are rectangular, rather than square, which can cause difficulty on scene if you have not previously marked them. Once the blanket is deployed and covering the car, tuck it under the vehicle to keep it from blowing up so that it will continue to limit the oxygen that the fire can use. It is very important to keep the blanket cool. The best way to do that is with the line you used to knock down the fire initially.

I also recommend, and have had great success with, an EVnozzle placed under the car with a second line. Again, you are not trying to put out the fire, you can’t. The fire has to burn itself out. The purpose of the EVnozzle is to cool the battery tray. Cooling the tray will not extinguish the fire, but it will make the scene safer and more manageable. You do not really want to cool the battery too much because it will only prolong the incident. I recommend using an EVnozzle with low gallonage because it cools the battery while still allowing it to burn safely.

from previous page

Using these tactics have been successful for us in the past. I am often asked about the time frame between extinguishing the fire and moving the car from the scene. Although there is no good way to determine with absolute certainty that it is completely safe to move the damaged vehicle, I do have a few tips and tricks that might help. The first, and most obvious, is that there is no visible sign of fire, including no evidence of smoke or off-gassing. Make sure, too, that you no longer hear the sounds of cells popping (sounds like popcorn in the microwave). In addition, it may be helpful to monitor the temperature reduction of the battery using a Thermal Imaging Camera. Although nothing is for certain, in my experience, my crew and I have been able to safely transport a damaged vehicle after a couple of hours. This may seem like a long, drawn-out event, but this method is much quicker than submerging the vehicle into a large, watertight container - a separate method of EVfirefighting that can take several days to weeks before the vehicle is safe and is not necessarily feasi-

ble in a crowded city or on the side of the interstate.

“The fire has to burn itself out. The purpose of the EVnozzle is to cool the battery tray. Cooling the tray will not extinguish the fire, but it will make the scene safer and more manageable.”

Still, if you move too quickly then the threat of reignition is very great due to the stranded energy in the batteries. Stranded energy is when the batteries have not expelled all of their energy. Since the cells are already damaged, stranded energy in them creates a greater threat of reignition. This threat is why it is important that you escort the tow. If the car reignites while being towed, disconnect it from the tow truck so you don’t have two car fires. Knock down the fire and then continue the tow, Make sure to tell the tow yard management that the car you’re leaving with them is an electric vehicle.

Ultimately, the decisions you make on a fire scene belong to you and your department. These suggestions have worked for my department. We have had great successes when dealing with EVincidents using these strategies and tactics. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to me at EVGoat01@gmail.com.

Ronkonkoma House Fire

On September3, 2024, at 1520, the Ronkonkoma Fire Department received a call fora house fire on Brunswick Road. Chief of Department Vincent Diaz transmitted a working fire fora fire in the attic of a single-story private dwelling. Firefighters arrived shortly

afterand stretched an attack line. Mutual aid was provided by Nesconset, Holtsville, Holbrook, Lakeland and Nesconset. There were no reported injuries and the cause of the fire was under investigation.

- Fire News photos by Evan Rolla

East Farmingdale CarFire

The East Farmingdale Fire Company was alerted fora vehicle fire on Banfi Plaza just before 0200 on August 26, 2024. Chief of Department Lewis and Safety 1 were the first units to respond. Safety 1 arrived to an involved vehicle in the street. The driver of the vehicle, an SUV, had noticed smoke while he was parking and exited the vehicle safely. Engine 1-5-1, Support Vehicle 1-523 and First Responder1-5-80 responded. The crew from 1-5-1 put one line into operation with foam and had the fire extinguished in about 10 minutes. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza

DeerPark Working Fire

At approximately 0200 on August 30, 2024, the Deer Park Fire Department was alerted fora structure fire off of Mark Lane. Units arrived to fire on the 2side of the structure, and mutual aid was started to the scene. Unit 1-4-31 requested a rush forNational Grid due to fire by the gas main. Crews stretched and operated lines and opened up the walls of the house to check forextension; results were very minimal. The fire was brought undercontrol within an hourwith no reported injuries. Mutual aid was provided by North Babylon, Wyandanch and Dix Hills. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation by the Town of Babylon Fire Marshal and Suffolk County Police Arson Squad.

- Fire News photos by Sean Wolfe and Paul Mazza

In the early morning of September4, 2024, the Elmont Fire Department, along with mutual aid companies, responded to a fire on Flint Place off Village Avenue. Firefighters put three handlines into operation off Elmont Engine 704 forfire in an attached garage with extension into a twostory private dwelling. All occupants made it safely out of the home and there were no reported injuries. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation and Elmont Chief of Department Segovia had command. - Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com

Elmont Garage Fire Extends

Glen Cove Truck Fire

On August 12, 2024, at approximately 1655, the City of Glen Cove VolunteerFire Department was dispatched to a reported building fire in the vicinity of Glen Cove Avenue and Morris Avenue. All fourGlen Cove chiefs were quickly on scene and found an active truck fire neara building. Engine 524 stretched the first line, while additional crews entered the building to check forextension. Two lines were placed into operation to extinguish the main body of fire which did not extend into the building. The fire was placed undercontrol in approximately 30 minutes underthe direction of Chief of Department Grella. - Fire News photo by www.OverTheEdge Photography.com

Garage Fire

Held from Extension

On the night of September2, 2024, the Baldwin Fire Department was called to a house fire on Kings Parkway off Glenmore Street. Those first to arrive were met with a propane fueled fire in the rearyard extending to a detached garage. Firefighters put two handlines into operation off Baldwin Engine 203 and were able to keep the fire from extending into any of the nearby residences. Nassau County Hazmat was requested to the scene to secure multiple propane tanks. There were no reported injuries, and the cause of the fire was underinvestigation. All fire department units were underthe command of Baldwin Chief of Department Hopkins.

- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com

Fatality at Brentwood Blaze

On August 27, 2024, at 1239, the Brentwood Fire Department was alerted fora structure fire on Oklahoma Avenue. Truck Captain Edwin Abrego observed heavy fire coming from the structure and police tending to an occupant on the front driveway. He transmitted the working fire and asked forEMS foran elderly man being administered CPR. Brentwood Engine put two lines in operation. At this point, fire had consumed most of the structure. Command cleared the building and a masterstream operation took place. With the fire now darkening down crews were able to re-enterthe building using caution where the floors were compromised. The under control was finally transmitted aftermore than an hourand replacement crews were utilized for extensive overhaul. The occupant, a 77-year-old man, succumbed to his injuries. Anotherfamily memberwas transported to a local hospital for observation. Two firefighters were also transported forheat exhaustion. Mutual aid departments included Bay Shore, Islip, Islip Terrace, Central Islip and East Brentwood. Suffolk Arson, Town of Islip Fire Marshal and Building Inspectoralso responded.

- Fire News photos by Ken Bradbury and Paul Mazza

Farmingville House Fire

On August 31, 2024, at approximately 1434, the Farmingville Fire Department was activated fora structure fire on Oceanview Avenue, in Farmingville. Initial reports stated flames were coming from the rearof the house. Farmingville Engine 4 reported heavy smoke showing on arrival. Afterthe fire attack had begun it was realized that the home was heavily cluttered. The fire quickly spread into the attic, but had all visible fire knocked down by 1523. One firefighter was injured in the blaze. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation by the Brookhaven Town Fire Marshal’s Office. Mutual aid came from Holbrook, Centereach, Coram, Holtsville, Medford, Ronkonkoma, Selden, Terryville and Medford. Ambulances forboth stand-by and rehab were provided by multiple agencies.

- Fire News photos by Chase Millwater and Jim Dunn

Hempstead Laundry Building Fire

The Hempstead Fire Department responded to a fire in a commercial laundry service building on September4, 2024. The original call was a waterflow alarm but a fire was discovered in several bins of clothing and quickly extinguished. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

Working Fire in East Farmingdale

The East Farmingdale Fire Company was called to a house fire on 15th Street about 1750 on September5, 2024. Chief of Department Lewis and Assistant Chiefs Quinn and Greco responded first. Chief Quinn arrived to smoke showing from the second floorof a two-story home. Chief Lewis arrived and transmitted the working fire. Engine 1-5-1 and Ladder15-15 responded from theirquarters a block away. Crews stretched two lines, with one going into operation and containing the fire to one room. Mutual aid was provided by North Lindenhurst and Wyandanch-Wheatley Heights Ambulance Corps. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza

Brentwood Heating Up

On September9, 2024, the Brentwood Fire Department responded fora structure fire on New York Avenue. First arriving Chief Chris Boyle transmitted the working fire in a two-story high ranch with fire throughout. The first engine dropped a supply line at the hydrant and proceeded to the scene. Two lines were stretched and an interiorattack ensued. Command was established by CoD Andrew Renison and the mutual aid plan was put in motion. Bay Shore, Islip, Central Islip, East Islip and East Brentwood responded. EMS support came from Brentwood Legion Ambulance Corp. Islip Town Fire Coordinators, Town Fire Marshals and the Red Cross also responded. No injuries were reported and all units were back in service two hours into the alarm.

- Fire News photos by Ken Bradbury and Paul Mazza

Westbury Garage Fire Stopped

On the evening of September7, 2024, the Westbury Fire Department operated at a fire on Sheridan Street off Roman Avenue. Hicksville was designated the FASTand responded to the scene with Ladder931. Firefighters put two handlines into operation fora well involved, detached garage fire. There were no exposure issues; however, the fire caused cosmetic damage to the 2-1/2 story private dwelling that it belonged to. Two firefighters sustained minorinjuries while operating. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation and all fire department units were underthe command of Westbury Assistant Chief Stewart.

- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com and Paul Mazza

Mixed Residency Fire Stopped in Oceanside

In the early morning of September6, 2024, the Oceanside Fire Department, along with mutual aid companies, operated at a working fire on Long Beach Road off Montgomery Avenue. Firefighters put two handlines into operation fora fire on the first floorof a two-story mixed occupancy. While opening up, companies found that the fire had extended up to the second floorin the 1/4 corner; however, once discovered, the fire was quickly extinguished, along with fire on the first floor. The occupants residing on the second floorwere able to make it safely out of the building and there were no reported injuries. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation and all fire department units were underthe command of Oceanside Chief of Department Gress. - Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com

Malverne FFs Extinguish SSP CarFire

Quick Stop at West Babylon CarFire

The West Babylon Fire Department was alerted fora vehicle fire at the West Babylon ManorApartments on Casatta Drive shortly after0400 on August 9, 2024. Chief of Department Kamalic and Third Assistant Chief Fischerarrived to find a sedan on fire, which spread to an SUVand damaged a minivan. Engines 1-9-3, 1-9-8, and Ambulance 1-9-9 responded. The Engine crews put one line into operation and had the fire extinguished in about 15 minutes. There were no reported injuries.

- Fire News photos by Paul Mazza

Malverne firefighters extinguished a working car fire on Southern State Parkway between Exits 16 and 17 on the afternoon of August 19, 2024. Firefighters, underthe command of Deputy Chief Anthony Buonomo, responded at 1311 and used one hoseline to extinguish the fire, which had consumed most of the four-doorvehicle. Firefighters were on scene forabout 30 minutes afteroverhauling the interiorof the burnt-out vehicle. The driver was able to escape the vehicle afterseeing smoke and flames in the engine compartment while driving east on the parkway.

- Photos by Steve Grogan, Lynbrook FD PIO

Uniondale Overturn

On the night of September11, 2024, the Uniondale Fire Department operated on the scene of a motorvehicle accident with overturn on Uniondale Avenue at Hampton Road. There were two vehicles involved in the accident, one vehicle overturned. All injuries were minorand fire department units were underthe command of Uniondale Chief of Department Martinez. - Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com

Marion Street Basement Fire

The South Farmingdale and Farmingdale Fire Departments were alerted fordual response fora dryerfire at a Marion Street home about 2355 on September5, 2024. Chief od Department Mackie arrived to a heavy smoke condition in the single-story home and reported an active dryerfire in the basement which had a heavy cluttercondition. Upon furtherinvestigation, a working fire was trans-

mitted as there was extension out of the dryer. Engines 972 and 923 arrived, and those crews stretched two lines. Ladder978 and Ladder 3 crews searched and vented the house. The fire was knocked down and contained to the basement and was undercontrol within an hour. Mutual aid came from Bethpage, North Massapequa, Massapequa and East Farmingdale. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza

East Farmingdale Commercial Fire

The East Farmingdale Fire Company was alerted fora reported vehicle fire at Straight Path and Edison Avenue about 2210 on August 10, 2024. Third Assistant Chief Kilbridge arrived to a fully involved SUVthat had spread to the facade and overthe parapet wall of a single-story taxpayerwith fourstorefronts. First Assistant Chief Quinn took command. Engine 1-5-1 and Ladder1-5-15 operated two lines and crews opened up the store fronts to check for extension. The fire was brought undercontrol within an hourwith no reported injuries. Texanos Deli suffered the most damage. The

middle two storefronts were vacant, and Templo Mahanain at the otherend of the row suffered some smoke and waterdamage. On Christmas Eve 2008, the church had a fire, which did significant damage. Mutual aid came from North Lindenhurst, West Babylon, North Babylon and Melville. Wyandanch-Wheatley Heights Ambulance also provided two ambulances. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation by the Town of Babylon Fire Marshal and Suffolk County Police Arson Squad.

- Fire News photos by Paul Mazza and Sean Wolfe

Detached Garage Fire in Malverne

In the early morning hours of August 13, 2024, the Malverne Fire Department, along with mutual aid companies, operated at a well involved detached garage fire behind a home on Atlas Avenue off Dogwood Avenue. Firefighters stretched two handlines There was cosmetic damage to several of the surrounding exposures; however, there was no extension into any of the adjacent structures. There were no reported injuries, and the cause of the fire was underinvestigation. All fire department units were underthe command of Malverne Chief of Department Kevin Garvey.

- Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com

Babylon CarFire

The Babylon Fire Department was called to a reported vehicle fire at a home on Little East Neck Road about 1700 on September 4, 2024. Chief of Department Miga, Assistant Chiefs Sadousky, Price and Schultz responded, along with Engines 1-2-1, 1-2-3, Heavy Rescue 1-2-7 and Ambulance 1-2-15. The chiefs arrived and found an involved vehicle in the rearyard of the home. The crew of 1-2-3 put one line into operation and extinguished the fire in a few minutes.

- Fire News photo by Paul Mazza

Copiague Bedroom

Fire

Snuffed

The Copiague Fire Department responded to a house fire on Caboto Avenue about 1930 on August 11, 2024. Engine 1-3-5 reported fire in a rearbedroom of the single-story house. Chief of Department Millerarrived a moment laterand transmitted the working fire. The crew from 13-5 put one line into operation to contain the fire to the one room. The crews from Ladder1-3-4 and Heavy Rescue 1-3-3 searched and vented the house, with all searches negative. The fire was brought undercontrol in about 30 minutes. North Lindenhurst responded as RIT.

- Fire News photos by Paul Mazza

Montauk Highway Boat Fire

The Copiague Fire Department was called to a reported boat fire to the rear of a West Alhambra Avenue home about 2200 on August 16, 2024. Assistant Chiefs Broyles and Orlando arrived to a boat in a yard on Montauk Highway. Engines 1-3-5, 1-3-10 Ladder1-3-4, Ambulance 13-1 and First Responder1-380 responded. The fire was undercontrol within 30 minutes. There were no reported injuries.

- Fire News photos by Paul Mazza

Hewlett Hits North Woodmere House Fire

ANorth Woodmere house suffered extensive damage aftera fire broke out on the afternoon of August 25, 2024. The calls came in just after1500 forflames in the rearof a home on Prescott Place. Hewlett firefighters arrived and found the rearof the home heavily

CarFire in Hauppauge

At 2112 on August 31, 2024, the Hauppauge Fire Department was dispatched to a reported vehicle fire in the parking lot of Wendy’s on MotorParkway. Firefighters arrived to an involved auto and quickly extinguished the fire. There were no reported injuries and the cause of the fire was underinvestigation.

- Fire News photos by Evan Rolla

Lawrence 2-Alarmer

On August 29, 2024, at approximately 0110, the LawrenceCedarhurst Fire Department was dispatched fora house fire on Margaret Avenue in Lawrence. First Assistant Chief Adlerand Chief of Department Beilinson arrived to a fire on the second floor and attic of a two-story house. Engine 326, along with Ladder325 crews worked to locate the fire and stretched the initial line. The main body of fire was knocked down in approximately 20 minutes with three lines placed into operation. The alarm was upgraded to a second alarm bringing assistance from Inwood, Woodmere, Elmont, Long Beach, Valley Stream, Rockville Centre, Lakeview, East Rockaway, Oceanside, Hewlett and Freeport. Afterextensive overhaul, the fire was placed undercontrol. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation.

- Fire News photo by www.OverTheEdgePhotography.com

Carin Driveway Fire

The West Babylon Fire Department was alerted fora vehicle fire in the driveway of Haab Avenue home about 1205 on September5, 2024. Units arrived to find an involved vehicle in the driveway close to the house. The crew from 1-9-3 put one line into operation and had the fire extinguished in about 10 minutes. There was no extension to the home, and the crew from 1-9-15 overhauled the vehicle.

- Fire News photo by Paul Mazza

Brentwood House Fire

On August 10, 2024, the Brentwood Fire Department was dispatched to a house fire on Somerville Street. Units responding were advised the callerwas reporting flames from the roof. Crews arrived and reported smoke showing. Firefighters stretched two 13/4 inch lines and put one into operation. There were no reported injuries and the cause of the fire was underinvestigation. Units operated underthe command of Chief Boyle.

- Fire News photos by Evan Rolla

CarFire at Storage Facility

The East Farmingdale Fire Company was called to a reported vehicle fire at Storquest self-storage on Route 109 just after1900 on August 14, 2024. Assistant Chiefs Quinn, Greco and Kilbridge responded. While en route, a column of smoke was visible from a distance. Once on scene, the chiefs found a fully involved van that extended into one of the storage units. Engine 1-5-2 and 1-5-1 put lines into operation. Ladder1-5-15 set up at the end of the storage units, with part of its crew going to the roof, and others to the affected units to assist in overhaul and checking forextension. While extinguishing the van, members found two 20-pound propane tanks inside that had been damaged. The fire was brought undercontrol within an hourwith no reported injuries, and the cause was underinvestigation. Mutual aid to the scene was provided by Farmingdale and South Farmingdale.

- Fire News photos by Paul Mazza

EMS ACROSS THE ISLAND

Rescues in Rocky Point During Flood

On the morning of August 19, 2024, torrential rain and flooding lead to over20 calls in a three-plus-hourperiod on northeastern Long Island. The Rocky Point Fire Department responded to a reported house fire, alarms and numerous flooding conditions; including one call fora flooded house with occupants trapped. With the assistance of Chief Bernier, company members responded in theirhigh waterrescue truck which, due to the extreme flooding, was unable to access the road. Aplan was devised to respond to a nearby road and attempt to gain access through neighboring back yards. Aftera few hopped fences, company members were able to reach the house and make verbal contact with the occupants.

Second Lieutenant McCabe and FirefighterMcCabe entered the water, as rescue swimmers and gained entry into the home. They successfully removed two occupants as well as a dog from the flooded house; ourswimmers helped anothervictim who found refuge from his flooded house atop his van. Crews then assisted all three people and the dog overnumerous fences back to the truck and transported them to an awaiting ambulance. Ajob well done to all members who operated on scene, as well as Chief McCarick and Chief Martin who ran command and operations. Ourcondolences to all the members of the community who were impacted by the storm.

- Fire News photos by Terry McCarrick

Turtle Rescue in Setauket

The Setauket Fire Department was requested by a resident to assist in rescuing a turtle from a storm drain on Lincoln Street off Franklin Avenue in East Setauket on August 25, 2024. Firefighters were able to remove the storm covergrate and scoop up the turtle to safety.

- Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber

Fatality at Lynbrook MVA

One person was killed and two others injured in a multivehicle accident on Sunrise Highway at Atlantic Avenue in Lynbrook on August 25, 2024. Lynbrook firefighters and EMS personnel responded to the scene.

- Fire News photos by

Fatal Crash in Port Washington

Port Washington Police and Nassau County Fire Marshals were investigating a multi-vehicle accident in the parking lot of the North Shore Farms in Port Washington on September1, 2024. At least five automobiles were involved, and a large tree was seen knocked over

just outside the lot. The driverof the vehicle that went out of control suffered a medical emergency and was pronounced dead at the hospital. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

5 Injured in Wantagh 3-CarMVA

Wantagh firefighters responded to a three-carMVAat the intersection of North Jerusalem Road and Loring Road in Levittown on August 23, 2024. The accident caused injuries to five persons. They were all stabilized and removed to NUMC by fire and police ambulances. None of the injuries appeared to be life threatening and rush hourtraffic was diverted around the accident scene.

- Fire News photo by Harry Loud

Setauket MVA on Old Town Road

The Setauket Fire Department was alerted foran MVAon Old Town Road in East Setauket on August 25, 2025 at 1320. Two cars were involved with one vehicle rear-ending another. The drivers of both vehicles were transported to Stony Brook University Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

- Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber

USAR Water Rescue Training

TRAINING

On August 11, 2024, the Suffolk County Urban Search and Rescue Team (SCUSAR) conducted waterrescue operations training on the Forge Riverin Mastic. Members were tasked with refamiliarization and operations of the SCUSAR waterrescue cache of equipment. This included an inflatable rescue boat (IRB) and motor, amphibious rescue craft (ARC), and a flat-bottom Jon boat. Seniormembers provided instruction in the use of this equipment as well as tactics used to rescue victims in the waterand conduct searches in flood conditions. As a Type III USAR Task Force, SCUSAR can provide a 40-person team with equipment and logistics to operate during 12-houroperational periods for72 hours. Capabilities include structural collapses, various technical rescue disciplines, surface/swift water/flood rescues, storm response including debris removal, and wide area search. SCUSAR is organized to be a module to fulfill specific requests without committing the full 40-person Type III Team - such as a 16-person surface water/swift waterrescue team. SCUSAR would like to thank the Mastic Fire Department, Mastic Ambulance Company, and the Town of Brookhaven fortheirassistance with the drill.

- Fire News photos by John Walthers

Garden City Garage Fire

In the early morning hours of August 12, 2024, the Garden City Fire Department, along with mutual aid companies, operated at a fire on ButlerPlace off Stewart Avenue. Firefighters put at least one handline into operation fora detached garage fire with no exposure issues. There were no reported injuries, and the main body of fire was quickly extinguished. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation. All fire department units were underthe command of Garden City Chief of Department Taunton.

- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com and OverTheEdgePhotography.com

~ LEGAL & FINANCIAL ISSUES

INTHE FIRE SERVICE ~

Emergency Vehicle Operation, What You Need to Know

As Nikki Teague (Firefighter I, former EMTCC), our Office Manager, has shared with us in her capacity as a volunteer for over 20 years, the pager goes off in the middle of the night and the drive to the station begins. Moments later you are operating a 20,000 to 70,000 pound fire truck or 10,000 to 14,0000 pound ambulance, or other department vehicle. You navigate the emergency vehicle at times at high rates of speed on darkened, wet or icy roadways, or in heavy traffic, to respond immediately to a medical or fire emergency. These conditions can cause great stress on the vehicle operator, and ultimately result in an accident putting yourself, other members of your crew, and innocent bystanders at risk.

The actions of a first responder when operating an authorized vehicle, such as police vehicle, fire engine or ambulance, in an emergency, are statutorily governed by Vehicle and Traffic Law §1104(b) that exempts drivers in part from various vehicular operating requirements set forth by statute and traffic codes.

“The actions of a first responder when operating an authorized vehicle, such as police vehicle, fire engine or ambulance, in an emergency, are statutorily governed by Vehicle and Traffic Law §1104(b) that exempts drivers in part from various vehicular operating requirements set forth by statute and traffic codes.”

The statute grants the driver of an authorized emergency vehicle special driving privileges when involved in an emergency operation. Those privileges include passing through red lights and stop signs, exceeding the speed limit and disregarding regulations governing the direction of movement or turning in specified directions (see Vehicle and Traffic Law § 1104 [a], [b]). But drivers of emergency vehicles are not relieved of their duty to drive “with due regard for the safety of all persons” and section 1104 does not “protect the driver from the consequences of his reckless disregard for the safety of others” (Vehicle and Traffic Law § 1104 [e]).

For liability to be predicated upon a violation of Vehicle and Traffic Law § 1104, there must be evidence that “the actor has intentionally done an act of an unreasonable character in disregard of a

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Important Update Regarding YourVFBLPolicy for2025

Fire Districts of New York Mutual Insurance Co., Inc. (FDM) has some important info about your fire district's VFBLand Workers Compensation insurance. Thanks to your efforts on health and safety our policyholders’claim experience is excellent and improving! We report this info to the New York Compensation Insurance Rating Board. Your improved claims experience helps support more competitive rates and lowers policyholder premiums.

Now is the time to look to FDM for your VFBLcoverage with new lower rates effective October 1, 2024. We work with knowledgeable independent brokers to serve the fire service in New York. FDM is the subject matter expert for VFBLand Workers' Compensation in New York. At FDM the fire service IS our business. Over 45 years ago we were founded by firefighters for firefighters across New York. Our policyholders own the company. We protect those that protect us!

Now is the time! Receive the benefits and service you deserve. Pay the lower policy premiums you have earned. Why wait to see if you receive a dividend next year (past performance does not guarantee future results)? Why gamble on whether you will be assessed an additional contribution after

your policy year ends because your VFBL provider guessed your policy premium wrong?

Together with your insurance broker FDM gives you peace of mind and policy premium without guesswork. We’ll offer you the best rate for the year upfront, guaranteed! If we get it wrong, it’s on us not you. Therefore, we get it right! Note that all Workers' Compensation insurance policies are subject to payroll audits.

Claims experience will change from year to year and every fire district has their own experience. FDM and our brokers understand that and work to give you the best rate we can for your VFBLand Workers’ Compensation coverages.

Now is the time with rates and premiums becoming more competitive than ever. Talk to your broker and FDM about your next VFBLand Workers’Compensation proposal. Get the expert advice and service you deserve, and you have earned. VFBLand Workers’Compensation isn’t something you need to stress over when you partner with the experts. We’ll make the process as easy and painless as possible. Your broker and FDM are glad to answer your questions on coverage, underwriting, claims service, pricing and other concerns.Now is the time

because you deserve it, and you have earned it! Thank you to all our policyholders and to our brokers for your business! If you are not a current policyholder, we are glad to be available to discuss any questions you may have.

ROYDENNYMBA, CIC, CRM

EVP/COO at Fire Districts of New York Mutual Insurance Co., Inc.

Phone: 845.352.8855 x7099

Email: rdenny@fdmny.com

Grants Resources Offered by FEMA and the US Government

Our Grants Resources page lists resources where First Responders can obtain grants for a range of needs, including firefighter grants, emergency medical service grants, and pre-disaster mitigation grants. For a more comprehensive list of federal grants, searchable by keyword or other criteria, visit Grants.gov. On Grants.gov, the first responder community can also learn about the federal grants lifecycle and grants management policies.

Assistance to Firefighters Grants Program

Funds critically-needed resources to equip and train emergency personnel, enhance efficiencies and support community resilience.

Chemical Stockpile Emergency Preparedness Program

The Chemical Stockpile Emergency Preparedness Program (CSEPP) is a unique partnership between FEMAand the U.S. Army, combining emergency management experience with responsibilities of custodianship of the U.S. chemical stockpile.

DHS Grants from Grants.gov

Grants.gov was established as a governmental resource named the E-Grants Initiative, part of the Presidential 2002 Fiscal Year Management Agenda to improve government services to the public.

Emergency Management Baseline Assessment Grant

Provides non-disaster funding to support developing, maintaining, and revising voluntary national-level standards and peer-review assessment processes for emergency management and using these standards and processes to assess state, local, tribal, and territorial emergency management programs and professionals.

Emergency Management Performance Grant

Provides state, local, tribal and territorial emergency management agencies with the resources required for implementation of the National Preparedness System and works toward the National Preparedness Goal of a secure and resilient nation.

Emergency Medical Services Grants

EMS1’s EMS Grants section provides a comprehensive database of grants, news, information and resources to help EMS fighters identify and secure available grant funding.

Emergency Operations Center(EOC) Grant Program

To improve emergency management and preparedness capabilities by supporting flexible, sustainable, secure, strategically located, and fully interoperable EOCs with a focus on addressing identified deficiencies and needs.

(Continued on page 72)

~ LEGAL & FINANCIAL ISSUESINTHE FIRE SERVICE ~

How to Keep Insurance Prices Competitive

Diane Setter, Industrial Coverage Corp

As all consumers have noticed, insurance premiums have increased substantially over the past few years. This is true in both your Homeowners and Automobile insurance, as well as Commercial Insurance. Fire Departments and Fire Districts are no exception to this.

“...you

should be looking for a professional agent, who understands the fire and emergency services industry. Agood insurance professional will review your policy and loss information and offer their advice as to building values, apparatus values, deductible options...”

Insurance Companies have seen an increase in losses due to natural disasters of wind, rain, hail and wildfires; as well as Volatility and inflationary changes in the stock market and mortgage rates where many insurance companies have their business investments. These increased losses and the added inability to make profitable investments cause insurance carriers to raise rates, or in a lot of cases, leave the states and or markets where they are seeing unprofitable returns. Fire Departments, Fire Districts and Ambulance Companies bring additional risks that insurance companies have to increase rates for, such as the added costs of fire and EMS apparatus that have tripled in price and time to build after supply chain issues from COVID-19.

In most cases, the way to

ALook Back at 2024

Michael Hartzman

Certified Financial Planner, President

As we enter the final quarter of 2024, it's time to reflect on the key issues that have shaped the economy and markets throughout the year. Four interconnected factors have driven returns: interest rates, inflation, the job market and recession fears. These concerns are not only top of mind for investors but are also central to the upcoming presidential election. In every poll, respondents consistently point to the economy and inflation as major challenges heading into 2025, highlighting their importance in shaping voter priorities.

Despite all of the headwinds the market has faced this year, through September 7, 2024, the Dow Jones is up 7.05 percent, S & P500 is up 13.39 percent and the NASDAQ has returned 11.29 percent. These returns are down from earlier highs but healthy year to date returns none the less.

The year started with an expectation from many economists that the federal reserve would cut interest rates between 4 and 6 times. As of this writing there have been no interest rate cuts but with the first one expected at the upcoming September meeting. The Fed's mandated goal is to control inflation and until recently it has not been able to successfully achieve their goal.

The economy and job market have stayed unexpectedly strong for most of the year and had not shown signs of weakness until this past summer when we finally saw signs of a slowing economy and weaker job market. The unintended consequence of the strong economy is stickier inflation which put real pressure on millions of Americans who live on a fixed budget and have not seen their income keep up with the higher cost of food and energy.

Now that the Federal Reserve has achieved its goal of slowing down the economy and lowering inflation's pace, some economists worry the Fed waited too long to lower interest rates and will cause the economy to slow too much causing a recession and an even slower job market as things cool off and companies lay off employees. At the moment, not many experts think a recession is immi-

that Fire Districts feel they can combat this issue is to put their insurance out to bid. There are some cases where this is not possible due to either large losses or industries of high risk.

Fire Districts are advised by the NY State Comptrollers Office to shop out their

(Continued on page 75)

nent, but the fear is a little higher now than earlier in the year. Heading into 2025 expect interest rates to be lower, pricing pressure easing and hopefully an economy that has not fallen into recession

What does this all mean eight weeks out from the Presidential election?

Here are a few things to look for the rest of the year:

1.The economy will remain one of the focal points of the Presidential race.

2.Expect the Federal Reserve to lower interest rates between .25 and .50 basis points in September and again before the end of the year. How much they cut will receive much scrutiny as it may indicate how weak the economy is becoming.

3.When interest rates start to come down the days of five-percent CDs, money markets and sort term treasuries will begin to end.

4.As the safe money returns become lower some income investors may look at other riskier areas of the fixed income market and dividend paying stocks as alternatives.

In conclusion, so far 2024 has really been the tale of two realities for the economy and the market. If you are living on a fixed budget, it is likely you’re feeling squeezed by higher prices and exhausted from trying to make ends meet. If you have a 401K or any investment account, you should be happy with the higher returns the market has given you so far this year.

To discuss your financial goals call Michael Hartzman, Certified Financial Planner and President at 516-349-5555; Lebenthal.com.

~ LEGAL & FINANCIAL ISSUESINTHE FIRE SERVICE ~

An Attorney, an Accountant, and a Financial PlannerWalk into a Bar...

Sounds like the setup to a classic joke, right? But what if this trio of professionals had valuable information about your financial future? Would you buy them each a drink and listen to what they had to say?

The combination of legal protection, tax efficiency, and financial planning provides a well-rounded approach to managing and protecting your wealth and ensures that your strategies on those fronts are aligned and mutually reinforcing. Let’s look at how each of these professionals, when working in tandem, can comprehensively address your needs.

The Attorney:

• Estate Planning: Your attorney has likely emphasized the necessity of a well-crafted estate plan. Wills, healthcare proxies, trusts, and powers of attorney are crucial for ensuring that your assets are distributed according to your wishes and that your loved ones are protected. DON’TLETYOUR MONEYEND UPIN PROBATE!

• Asset Protection: Legal structures such as LLCs or trusts can shield your personal assets from potential liabilities and lawsuits. An

attorney can help set up these structures to provide peace of mind.

• Legal Compliance: Working with an attorney can keep you compliant with all legal requirements, whether it is business regulations, real estate transactions, or personal legal matters.

The Accountant:

• Tax Efficiency: An accountant will underscore the importance of tax planning and efficiency. Strategies like maximizing deductions, credits, and tax-deferred accounts can help minimize your tax burden. Your

(Continued on page 67)

The Benefits of a Strong Cash Management Program forFire Districts &

Local governments, including fire districts, are beholden to legal requirements related to cash management. These include both state and federal statutes that pertain to the investment of public funds and related cash activities, including the investment of cash resulting from the issuance of debt.

The following list outlines relevant General Municipal Laws that relate to cash management that fire district management needs to be familiar with:

• Section 5-a authorizes local government officers to transfer funds electronically, subject to conditions.

• Section 10 requires the designation of one or more “banks” or “trust companies” to deposit public funds and secure them.

• Section 11 allows for certain temporary investments of money not required for immediate expenditure.

• Section 39 requires the adoption, by resolution, of an investment policy.

Fire-Related Organizations

• Section 99-b allows the governing board of a local government to authorize the receipt of check images in lieu of canceled checks.

• Articles 3-Aand 5-G govern, generally, the temporary investment of money by more than one municipal corporation pursuant to a municipal cooperation agreement.

Effective cash management is not just required by law, but it’s an important lifeline for fire districts and fire-related entities. These organizations often operate with limited resources, face unique challenges that demand meticulous financial planning and management. Arobust cash management program is not a luxury, but a necessity, providing numerous benefits and ensuring economic stability to serve the community effectively.

Some of the benefits of a strong cash management system within a fire district, fire department, company or related organization include:

1. Improved Financial Stability

Astrong cash management program helps maintain financial stability by ensuring that there is always enough cash available to meet daily operational needs.

This involves accurate forecasting of cash inflows and outflows, which helps avoid cash shortages that could disrupt services. The entity can handle unexpected expenses and emergencies without compromising its financial health by maintaining an appropriate cash balance.

2. Enhanced Budgeting and Planning

Effective cash management provides a clear picture of the entity’s financial position, essential for accurate budgeting and long-term planning. With reliable cash flow projections, a fire district or related organization can make informed decisions about resource allocation, long-term capital planning, capital projects, and other financial commitments. This proactive approach to budgeting helps set realistic goals and priorities, ensuring that funds are used efficiently and effectively.

3. Increased Resources

One of the significant benefits of a robust investment policy and cash management program is the potential for increasing the amount earned on idle funds. It is best to ensure that cash is invested in interest-bearing accounts.

(Continued on page 68)

~ LEGAL & FINANCIAL ISSUESINTHE FIRE SERVICE ~

An Attorney, an Accountant, and a Financial Planner...

Continued from page 64

accountant can also educate you on the value of a Roth vs traditional IRAand can help mitigate taxes in in retirement.

• Financial Records: Keeping accurate and organized financial records is essential for smooth tax preparation and compliance. Accountants can offer tips on managing and maintaining these records.

• Budgeting and Forecasting: Let your accountant advise you on how to create a detailed budget and financial forecast, track spending, plan for future goals, and ensure financial stability.

The Financial Planner/Fiduciary:

• Investment Strategy: The financial planner focuses on the importance of a diversified investment portfolio tailored to your risk tolerance and financial goals. They advise on asset allocation and investment choices that align with your long-term plans.

• Retirement Planning: When it comes to retirement planning, the financial planner can help you set up retirement accounts, estimate future needs, and develop a savings strategy to ensure a comfortable retirement. Talk to them about a re-capture strategy that uses permanent insurance to ensure generational wealth building after you pass on. (Assets passed through life insurance are typically tax-free.)

• Financial Goals: Setting and achieving financial goals, whether it is buying a home, funding education, or building wealth, is the financial planner’s sweet spot. They can assist you in creating a roadmap to help you reach your objectives.

While you may never get the chance to run into an attorney,

accountant, and financial planner at a bar together, their combined expertise can offer invaluable insights into protecting and growing your wealth. Leverage their knowledge to create a robust financial strategy that safeguards your assets, minimizes your tax liabilities, and helps you achieve your long-term goals. So, raise a glass to the power of professional collaboration and smart financial planning!

If you have any questions about this article or want access to additional resources, call:

Kevin Parrett, Vice President LOSAPAdministration 631-589-2929 kparrett@Hometownfirefighters.com

“The financial planner focuses on the importance of a diversified investment portfolio tailored to your risk tolerance and financial goals. They advise on asset allocation and investment choices that align with your long-term plans.”

~ LEGAL & FINANCIAL ISSUESINTHE FIRE SERVICE ~

The Benefits of a Strong Cash Management Program...Continued

When practicable longer-term investments can be made. By optimizing cash flow and management, a fire district can maximize returns on the short-term investment of cash. This is of particular importance during this period of relatively high interest rates we are currently experiencing. The additional cash flows from additional interest income can be redirected towards essential services, address deferred maintenance, capital projects or funding reserves.

4. Increased Transparency and Accountability

Transparency and accountability are fundamental principles of good governance. Arobust cash management program enhances these principles by providing precise and accurate financial reports. Afire district or related entity should ensure that bank accounts are reconciled monthly. Another option is to consider using online banking or other automated banking systems to track cash balances.

Regular monitoring and reporting of cash flows will help to ensure that stakeholders, including citizens, elected officials, and auditors, have access to up-to-date financial information. This transparency builds trust and confidence in the entity's financial management practices.

5. BetterRisk Management

Fire districts and related entities can face unexpected expenditures or cost increases that outpace the increases in their fire protection contracts or the tax cap imposed by New York State. Astrong cash management program helps mitigate these risks by maintaining adequate cash reserves and implementing risk management strategies. By preparing for potential financial challenges, the entity can continue to operate smoothly and deliver essential services even during times of increased costs or financial uncertainty.

6. Enhanced Creditworthiness

from page 64

Maintaining a strong cash management program can improve a fire district or related entity’s credit worthiness. Lenders and credit rating agencies look favorably upon entities that demonstrate sound financial management practices. Agood credit rating can lead to lower borrowing costs and better access to credit, which is particularly important for funding large capital projects and infrastructure improvements.

7. Efficient Use of Resources

Effective cash management ensures that resources are used efficiently and not wasted. By closely monitoring cash flows and managing expenditures, fire service entities can identify areas where costs can be reduced or where funds can be reallocated to more critical needs. This efficient use of resources helps in maximizing the impact of every dollar spent, ultimately benefiting the community.

Conclusion

Astrong cash management program is essential for the financial health and operational efficiency of a fire district, department, or company. It provides numerous benefits, including improved economic stability, enhanced budgeting and planning, increased revenue, increased transparency and accountability, better risk management, enhanced creditworthiness, and efficient use of resources. By prioritizing effective cash management, fire districts and related entities can ensure that they are well-equipped to meet the needs of their communities and achieve their long-term goals.

If your fire department, fire company or benevolence association needs assistance with tax compliance please feel free to contact Robert Craig at rcraig@cfmllp.com or by calling our office at (631) 360-1400 Ext. 303.

~ LEGAL & FINANCIAL ISSUESINTHE FIRE SERVICE ~

An Open Letterto the LOSAPCommunity

Dear Members of the LOSAPCommunity: Over the past 12 years, I have had the honor of engaging with many of you, and I fully recognize that the last thing you wish to receive is another “sales pitch.” Thus, I write this letter not to promote my firm or any specific entity, but to share three fundamental principles that I believe are essential for your consideration as you navigate your LOSAP planning.

Principle #1: Separation of Responsibilities

In the realm of LOSAP planning, it is vital to maintain a clear distinction between the roles of the actuary or plan administrator and the investment advisor. The plan actuary is charged with determining the plan’s funding status. In essence, the actuary is the score keeper who determines the success or failure of the investment professional’s strategy.

The investment advisor is responsible for investing the plan’s assets with the goal of most efficiently paying the plan’s liabilities (i.e., LOSAPpayouts). Having the plan actuary/administrator work with or for the investment advisor is akin to attending a Yankees game and discovering that the umpire is donning pinstripes.

Principle #3: Create Common Sense Metrics to Evaluate the Effectiveness of yourInvestment Professional

Let's say that twelve years ago you hired an investment professional to invest $20,000 to be earmarked for your child’s education. Assume that you explained you needed the investment to grow to $40,000.00 (six percent annual rate of return). Now fast forward to year 12 and assume your investment professional arrives at your house and informs you that your investment has only grown to $28,000, or 70 percent of what you expected. My assumption is that you would view this as a failure, further my assumption is that you would replace or cease doing further business with this professional.

Principle #2: Understand the Incentives of yourInvestment Professional

It is imperative to grasp whom your investment professional truly represents. Astraightforward way to assess this is by examining the flow of compensation (i.e., “follow the money”). Brokers and agents typically earn commissions from the products they sell, which can introduce biases into their recommendations. In contrast, fee-only investment advisors are directly compensated by their clients. Understanding this distinction can assist you in making informed decisions about whom to trust with your plans’financial future. Working with a fiduciary – someone legally bound to act in your best interes – further aligns incentives with your plans’goals.

But before you answer, let me get your blood boiling, imagine how you would react if the investment professional gave you the following response:

“Client, don’t worry about the current standing of the account – we have a solution. Simply invest another $12,000 and we will be fully funded.”

The investment advisor should be evaluated with a two-fold approach:

1. What is your plan’s funding ratio?

2. What is your plan’s annual contribution requirement?

As you reflect on your LOSAPplanning, I hope these principles resonate with you. My aim is to foster a community where decisions are made with clarity, accountability, and genuine care for the future.

Thank you for taking the time to read this letter. I look forward to our continued discussions and to working together toward a secure financial future.

Warm regards,

Robert F. Draper, Jr. Founder, Chief Investment Officer Investment Advisor Representative

Draper Asset Management robert@draperasset.com (631) 361-4925

~ LEGAL & FINANCIAL ISSUESINTHE FIRE SERVICE ~

Grants Resources Offered...Continued

FIRE DEPARTMENTS FIRST RESPONDER GRANTS

List of Grants specifically for the fire discipline of First Responders.

Fire Grants Help

FireGrantsHelp.com features the most extensive fire grant listings database available, with information on a wide range of available federal, state, local and corporate grant opportunities. Federal, state, local and corporate grant opportunities.

First ResponderGrants

List of grants for all disciplines of First Responders.

Homeland Security Grant Program

Risk-based grants to assist state, local, tribal and territorial efforts in preventing, protecting against, mitigating, responding to and recovering from acts of terrorism and other threats.

Public Safety Grant News

Pertinent information for First Responders regarding securing grants.

Regional Catastrophic Preparedness Grant Program

Supports the building of core capabilities essential to achieving the National Preparedness Goal of a secure and resilient

nation by providing resources to close known capability gaps in Housing and Logistics and Supply Chain Management, encouraging innovative regional solutions to issues related to catastrophic incidents, and building on existing regional efforts.

Reimbursement forFirefighting on Federal Property

Reimbursement for Firefighting on Federal Property - Under Section 11 of the Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act of 1974, reimbursement may be made to fire departments for fighting fire on property owned by the Federal government.

Transit Security Grant Program

Provides funding to eligible public transportation systems (which include intra-city bus, ferries and all forms of passenger rail) to protect critical transportation infrastructure and the travelling public from terrorism, and to increase transportation infrastructure resilience.

OTHER FIRSTRESPONDER PUBLIC SAFETYGRANTS

Pre-DisasterMitigation Program

The Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) program provides funds to states, territories, Indian

from page 60

tribal governments, communities, and universities for hazard mitigation planning and the implementation of mitigation projects prior to a disaster event.

Public Safety Grant News

Pertinent information for First Responders regarding securing grants.

Regional Catastrophic Preparedness Grant Program

Supports the building of core capabilities essential to achieving the National Preparedness Goal of a secure and resilient nation by providing resources to close known capability gaps in Housing and Logistics and Supply Chain Management, encouraging innovative regional solutions to issues related to catastrophic incidents, and building on existing regional efforts.

Reimbursement forFirefighting on Federal Property

Reimbursement for Firefighting on Federal Property - Under Section 11 of the Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act of 1974, reimbursement may be made to fire departments for fighting fire on property owned by the Federal government.

~ LEGAL & FINANCIAL ISSUESINTHE FIRE SERVICE ~

Emergency Vehicle Operation...Continued

from page 59

known or obvious risk that was so great as to make it highly probable that harm would follow and has done so with conscious indifference to the outcome” (Prosser & Keeton, Torts § 34 at 213 [5th ed]). This heightened standard is grounded in the legislature’s recognition that, although the exercise of the privileges granted in section 1104 may increase the risks to pedestrians and other drivers, emergency personnel “should be afforded a qualified privilege to disregard [certain traffic] laws where necessary to carry out their important responsibilities” (Saarinen, 84 NY2d at 502). This approach avoids “judicial ‘second-guessing’of the many split-second decisions that are made in the field under highly pressured conditions” and mitigates the risk that possible liability could deter emergency personnel from acting decisively and taking calculated risks in order to save life or property or to apprehend miscreants” (id.).

In Kabir v. County of Monroe, 16 N.Y.3d 217, the New York Court of Appeals ruled that the “reckless disregard” standard of care found in Vehicle and Traffic Law Section 1104 only applies when the operator of an emergency vehicle is involved in an actual emergency operation and is engaging in the specific conduct which the statute exempts from the normally applicable rules of the road. “[A]ny other injury-causing conduct of such a driver is governed by the principles of ordinary negligence.”

As first responders the goal is always to help and save lives. However, we cannot stress the importance of regular training and education of emergency personnel on this subject of the laws and rules governing the operation of emergency vehicles. - Article by Stuart T. Spitzer

Malone Tauber & Sohn, P.C.

147 W. Merrick Rd. Freeport, NY11520

Tel: (516) 379-2500

Fax: (516) 379-2755

“As first responders the goal is always to help and save lives. However, we cannot stress the importance of regular training and education of emergency personnel on this subject of the laws and rules governing the operation of emergency vehicles.”

~ LEGAL & FINANCIAL ISSUESINTHE FIRE SERVICE ~

How to Keep Insurance Prices Competitive...Continued

insurance every 3 to 5 years. This process can be daunting but done by the right professionals, it can be educational as well as fiscally responsible.

Insurance is considered a professional service and can be chosen at the discretion of the Board and does not have to be the lowest bid. However, Emergency Serv-ice Organizations owe due diligence to their taxpayers when spending tax dollars. In addition, you should be looking for a professional agent, who understands the fire and emergency services industry. Agood insurance professional will review your policy and loss information and offer their advice as to building values, apparatus values, deductible opt-ions and most importantly insurance policy language that may provide broader coverage or limit coverage for your emergency service organization. In addition, your insurance carrier may provide comprehensive coverages, Education and Training help and loss control services for Emergency Service entities. Taking advantage of these with your insurance provider helps keep losses down, trains your people to a higher standard, and gives the volunteers and officers of the Emergency Service Organization help in understanding the risks involved in this type of organization.

“You’ll

need to provide the quoting agent with a copy of your policy, a schedule of vehicles and buildings, loss runs and answer questions on the application. The agents will present the quote to the Board and explain the difference between your current policy and the policy they present.”

from page 62

An independent agent can offer advice, and put your insurance policies out to the broad market. This process allows the client to use the agent that they feel comfortable with, and it allows the agent to get the client the best possible premium and coverage. In some cases, an independent agent may be prevented from accessing other markets due to exclusive agent arrangements, and your agent should be able to advise you if they are limited in this manner.

The process should be relatively painless for the Fire District. You'll need to provide the quoting agent with a copy of your policy, a schedule of vehicles and buildings, loss runs and answer questions on the application. The agents will present the quote to the Board and explain the difference between your current policy and the policy they present. The Board can then review options and choose the right policy for their needs. Introducing competition in the insurance renewal process can save thousands, if not 10s of thousands of taxpayers dollars and is the fiscally responsible thing to do.

For more information contact Diane Setter, Industrial Coverage at 631-736-7500 ext. 190; industrialcoverage.com; dsetter@industrialcoverage.com.

5 People Injured in Brentwood MVA

The Brentwood Fire Department and Brentwood Legion Ambulance were alerted foran MVAwith reported overturn at Washington Avenue and Franklin Street about 0630 on August 31, 2024. Engine 3-2-12 and Heavy Rescue 3-2-18 responded. Brentwood Legion Ambulance responded with multiple ambulances. Abox truck carrying furniture was traveling south on Washington when a sedan reportedly went through a stop sign on Franklin. The truck tried to avoid the sedan but made contact, then was hit by a northbound minivan. The truck overturned and slid across two driveways, striking two more vehicles and stopped afterhitting a carport. Five people suffered non-life-threatening injuries and were transported to a local hospital. The crews shored up the carport and assisted in lifting the back end of the truck, so a heavy-duty tow truck could drag the truck away from the house before up righting it. Hook and LadderCaptain Abrego was in charge of the scene. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza

3 Injured in Bethpage MVA

The Bethpage Fire Department and Nassau County Police responded to an MVAwith entrapment at Stewart Avenue and Maple Avenue about 0630 on September1, 2024. Plainview Second Assistant Chief Schatzberg notified Bethpage dispatch that he pulled up on a single-vehicle accident with a carinto a tree with three people in it, one of them trapped. The driverof a compact lost control and went into the tree sideways, trapping the passenger. Chief of Department DeBobes, Assistant Chiefs Castellano and Fitzwilliam responded to the scene. Assistant Chief Ganshaw responded to Headquarters to get Rescue 3 out. The crew from Ladder4 put multiple tools into operation to remove the doors and roof of the vehicle to extricate the passengerin about 10 minutes. All three occupants were taken to local hospitals, with the passengerhaving serious injuries.

- Fire News photo by Paul Mazza

Valley Stream MVA

The Valley Stream Fire Department responded to the report of an MVAon North Corona Avenue and West Melrose Street on August 30, 2024. Nassau County police and EMS units were also on the scene.

- Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

Minibus CarMVA in Brentwood

The Brentwood Fire Department was dispatched to an MVAat the intersection Wicks Road and Suffolk Avenue in Brentwood on August 14, 2024 at 1159. When firefighters arrived, they discovered a carand a minibus with three passengers on board had collided. Both vehicles were secured and one person was transported to an area hospital with minorinjuries.

- Fire News photo by Evan Rolla

4 Injured in SSPMVA

At approximately 0745 on August 18, 2024, the Wantagh Fire Department responded to a report of a collision with entrapment on the Southern State Parkway nearthe Wantagh Parkway. First Assistant Chief Bill Stevens was in command as Engine 2, Squad 1 and Rescue 4 responded to a single-carcollision where the operatorwas trapped inside. The EMS Captain and Medic Carwere also on scene. Acrew from Engine 2 went to work upon arrival and began using hydraulic tools to extricate the victim and were joined by members from Squad 1. The driverwas extricated in approximately 15 minutes and fouroccupants from the vehicle were transported to NUMC by ambulances from the NCPD with non-lifethreatening injuries.

- Photos provided by Chief Stevens; Kevin Regan, PIO

The DeerPark Fire Department was called to an MVAwith reported ejection at Bay Shore Road and Duke Street about 1810 on August 18, 2024. North Babylon First Assistant Chief Alt advised Babylon Central Fire Alarm that one person was in traumatic arrest underthe vehicle, the MVAwas in theirdistrict, but to keep DeerPark responding. DeerPark responded with Chief of Department Macaluso, Assistant Chiefs Rios, Jackson and Albanese, Rescue Engine 1-4-6, Quint 1-4-14, at least one Ambulance and Fire Police unit. Bethpage Engine 905 had been doing a standby in North Babylon and also responded. The driver

1 Dead in DeerPark MVAwith Entrapment and Ejection

of a 1987 Ford Mustang convertible went off the road and struck a utility pole head-on. One person was ejected, and the front seat passengerwas trapped. The crews from 1-4-6 and 1-4-14 put tools into operation to extricate the passenger. The crew from 905 had a precautionary line stretched. The ejected person was pronounced dead at the scene. The passengerwas taken to Good Samaritan University Hospital with serious injuries. The driver was taken to South Shore University Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries and was latercharged with DWI.

- Fire News photo by Paul Mazza

MVAand Fire on the SSP

On the morning of August 27, 2024, the North Merrick Fire Department operated at the scene of an MVAwith fire. An SUV, which was part of a minoraccident in the eastbound lanes of the Southern State Parkway at exit 24, left the roadway and struck a guardrail on the on ramp to the parkway. As a result, the SUV caught fire; however, the driver was able to safely exit the vehicle and was not seriously injured. One handline was put into operation off North Merrick Engine 674 and the fire was quickly extinguished. There was no entrapment orserious injuries in any of the other vehicles involved.

- Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com

2024 NASSAU

& SUFFOLK COUNTIES FIRE & EMS CALENDAR

OCTOBER

10/2 Long Island Legislative Committee - Brookhaven FD @ 7p

10/3 Smithtown Fire Chiefs Council Meeting - Nissequogue FD @ 7p

10/5 Islip Fire & EMS Museum - Antique Apparatus Muster & Chili Cook Off 10/14 COLUMBUS DAY

10/16 Nassau County Firefighters Association - General MeetingBethpage @ 7p

10/16 Babylon Town Fire Chiefs Association - Lindenhurst FD @ 7p

10/17 Association of Fire Districts of Islip Town - Annual MeetingIrish Coffee Pub @ 6:30p

10/17 Fire Chiefs Council of Nassau County - General Meeting

10/17 Southampton Town Fire Chiefs Council - Southampton FD @ 7p

10/18 Suffolk Firefighters Emerald Society - TBD @ 7p

10/18 Brookhaven Town Fire Chiefs Council - Farmingville FD @ 7p

10/19 Suffolk County Vol. Firefighters Assoc. - Annual Dinner @ Coram FD

10/19 to 10/22 Vital Signs EMS Expo

10/20 Suffolk County Marathon

10/20 to 10/24 NYS Districts - Turning Stone

10/22 Islip Town Fire Chiefs Council - Sayville FD 2 7p

10/27 Islip Chief’s Brunch @ Capt. Bills @ 11a

10/28 Huntington Town Fire Chiefs Council - Huntington FD @ 7p

10/31 HALLOWEEN

NOVEMBER

11/1 to 11/3 Joey D Seminar & TrainingSuffolk County Fire Academy @ 8am

11/3 DAYLIGHTSAVINGS ENDS - CHECK YOUR SMOKE DETECTORS

11/5 ELECTION DAY

11/5 to 11/17 Firehouse Expo

11/7 Smithtown Fire Chiefs Council Meeting - Nesconset FD @ 7p

11/6 Long Island Legislative Committee - North Bellmore FD @ 7p

11/8 SC Fire Chiefs Council Meeting - Medford FD @ 7pm

11/9 Women in the Fire Service - SC Fire Academy

11/10 SC Fire Chief’s Brunch - Capt. Bills @ 1130a

11/11 VETERANS DAY

11/15 Suffolk Firefighters Emerald Society - TBD @ 7p

11/15 Brookhaven Town Fire Chiefs Council - Gordon Heights FD 2 7p

11/19 Islip Town Fire Chiefs Council - West Islip FD @ 7p

11/20 Babylon Town Fire Chiefs Association - West Babylon FD @ 7p

11/20 Suffolk County Amb. Chiefs Association - East Moriches VAC @ 7:30p

11/20 Riverhead Town Fire Chiefs Council Meeting - Riverhead Ambulance @ 7p

11/21 Association of Fire Districts of Islip Town - Great River FD @ 7p

11/21 Suffolk County Fire/EMS Safety Officers Association - TBD @ 7p

11/21 Southampton Town Fire Chiefs Council - North Sea FD @ 7p

11/25 Huntington Town Fire Chiefs Council Meeting - Northport FD @ 7p

11/28 THANKSGIVING

DECEMBER

12/3 Southampton/Easthampton Town Chiefs Councils - Sag Harbor FD @ 7p

12/4 Long Island Legislative Committee - Selden FD @ 7p

12/5 Smithtown Fire Chiefs Council Meeting - Commack FD @7p

12/7 PEARLHARBOR DAY

12/10 FIRE DISTRICTELECTIONS

12/19 Fire Chiefs Council of Nassau County - General Meeting

12/20 Suffolk Firefighters Emerald Society - TBD @ 7p

12/25 CHRISTMAS

12/31 NEW YEARS EVE

Baldwin Street Renaming

On a dreary, rainy, Saturday morning, September 7, 2024, some 200 relatives, friends and firefighters gathered in the intersection of Fairview Avenue and Soper Avenue in Baldwin, to celebrate the renaming of the intersection as Robert T. Beckwith Avenue.

Bob or ‘Becky’as he was affectionately known, was the retired firefighter from Ladder 164 who climbed atop a damaged fire engine with President George Bush. Becky died as a result of cancer he sustained while working on The Pile.

As Bob tells it, he climbed atop the rig to get a better view of the president. Asecret service agent approached him and asked how he got up there. Bob replied he climbed, whereby the agent asked if it was safe. Bob’s reply was “It’s a fire engine.” The agent told him if the president comes over to help him up and then get down.

President Bush came over, Bob helped him up and was about to get down when the President asked where he was going. Bob replied he was told to get down whereby President Bush replied “No, no, you stay with me.” And thus was one of the most iconic photographs ever taken.

Bob said he and the president kept in touch and that he received a yearly Christmas card from the President. An Arch of Honor was provided by Ladders of the Baldwin Fire Department and the Point Lookout/Lido Beach Fire Department as dignitaries spoke of Firefighter Bob 'Becky' Beckwith of Ladder 164.

- Fire News photo by Harry Loud

MVAon the SSP in Malverne

The Malverne Fire Department was alerted foran MVA on the westbound Southern State Parkway on August 28, 2024. An SUVleft the parkway nearthe Corona Avenue entrance ramp and plowed into a group of trees adjacent to the shoulderof the roadway. At least one adult and two small children suffered minor injuries and were transported to area hospitals. AFranklin Square ambulance was also on the scene along with County EMS and AirBureau.

- Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

Southampton Structure Fire

On July 16, 2024, the Southampton Fire Department was dispatched to a structure fire on Henry Street in Southampton village. Southampton Village Police arrived and reported a working fire. Assistant Chief Richard Fowlerrequested an RITfrom Hampton Bays, an engine from North Sea and Bridgehampton forcover. Units arrived to find heavy fire at the rearof the house. Crews attacked it from the interiorand exterior, and a great stop was made with all visible fire stopped in 20 minutes. Southampton Village Ambulance, Hampton Bay and Bridgehampton ambulances also responded. One firefighterwas transported to Stonybrook Southampton Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Crews were on scene forapproximately 90 minutes. Assistant Chief Richard Fowlerwas in command forthe Southampton Fire Department and Chief Kyle McQuinness was in command forthe Southampton Village Ambulance.

- Submitted by Chris Brenner, Sr., ex-Chief and PIO.

6th Battalion Parade

The 6th Battalion Parade. - Fire News photos by Stephen Takacs

Greenlawn FD LaborDay Parade

The Greenlawn Fire Department LaborDay Parade was held on August 28, 2024. The Commack Fire Department won the trophy forbest appearing fire department overall. This year's annual parade and fairwas hosted by Greenlawn Fire Chief Pete Miller. Parade judging was provided by the Glen Cove Fire Department. - Fire News photos by Drew Silverman

SCFAReceives icommand Board

On September 10, 2024, the Suffolk County Fire Academy (SCFA) received a donation of an ‘icommand board’from Greg Weisburd, owner of icommand. The SCFAplans to utilize the icommand board in their officer development courses, incident command courses, and other courses currently under development.

Said Mr. Weisburd, “Becoming a chief in the volunteer fire service comes with the responsibility of everyone operating at every incident. I

quickly came to realize the days of running command in my head or on a whiteboard wouldn’t cut it anymore. I went to the Internet to find a tool to help me maintain safety and accountability. What I was looking for was not out there. I sat down at the drawing board to develop what I knew I needed. My boards are built with size, affordability, and most important accountability at the forefront. I am passionate about sharing them with all command officers as I believe this

system can save lives. I am excited to provide this board to the SCFAto help them train the next generation of leaders.”

The SCFAis grateful for the donation. Accepting the icommand' board on behalf of the SCFAwas Executive Director Scott Davonski, Deputy Director Dan Sicilian, and Assistant Chief of Program Development Walter Dunn. - Photos by Ian Recchion; copy by Scott

W. Davonski

Up Close & Personal

Fire Department Fire Marshal Greg Gottlieb “3-8-40” at the scene of a truck fire on Wireless Boulevard on August 8, 2024.

- Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber

President of the Ridge Fire Department Ted Kern presented 2024’s scholarship to Samantha Hellberg.

- Fire News photo by Stan Lenz

Since 2006, the Fourth Battalion Fire District has hosted each summera night boat cruise out of Freeport on the Starstream VIII of the Captain Lou Fleet. In the photo, Battalion Chairman ex-Chief Joseph Mihalich of East Rockaway, from left, is joined by Secretary exChief Kevin Bien of Lynbrook, Treasurerex-Chief Mike Koppel of Lakeview, and past chairman ex-Chief John Hennig of Rockville Centre, during this year’s recent cruise. Missing from the photo is Vice-Chairman James Lang of Malverne.

- Fire News photo by Steve Grogan, PIO

Members of East Meadow Fire Department Rescue Company 5 aftera Prospect Avenue house fire on the morning of August 27, 2024.

- Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com

- Fire

Hauppauge

FASNYofficials, led by President Eugene Perry, at the start of the New York State Parade on August 18, 2024, hosted by the Central Islip Fire Department.

News photo by Vinny Ammirati

Medford ex-Chief Mike Barry at a Farmingville house fire.

- Fire News photo by Jim Dunn

9/11 Memorial Walk

Forthe past three years the Coram Fire Department has hosted a 9/11 Memorial Walk. The walk has each firefighterwalk from Station 2 at County Road 112 and Pine Road to the headquarters on Middle Country Road in full bunker gear. This year, departments from Gordon Heights, Middle Island, Mount Sinai and Yaphank also attended.

- Fire News photos by Jim Dunn

2 Ejected in Centereach MVA

On August 31, 2024, at approximately 1650, the Setauket Fire Department was activated foran MVAwith a reported overturn and ejection on Route 347 and Arrowhead Lane in Centereach. Arriving units were met with an accident involving two vehicles, one of which had overturned several times before landing on the guardrail right side up. Units confirmed two ejections from the vehicle that overturned. The two people were transported to Stony Brook University Hospital. The crash was underinvestigation by the Suffolk County Police Department.

- Fire News photos by Chase Millwater

South Farmingdale Relay Pumping Training

Members of the South Farmingdale Fire Department trained on the value of relay pumping, done in case a rig pulls up to a non-working hydrant orotherwatersource.

- Fire News photos by P. Smyth, PIO

OSHAUPDATE

As you are aware the Association, under the leadership of 2nd Vice President David Dennison has been following the progress of OSHA’s proposed amendment of the Fire Brigade Standard, which would create a new Emergency Response Standard (29 CFR Part 1910 [Docket No. OSAH-2007-0073] RIN 1218-AC91 Emergency Response Standard].

Mr. Dennison has led a committee on which other association officers, directors and staff have participated wish has requested that OSHA reconsider the proposed rule. The committee and other fire service groups have been successful in obtaining two extensions of the comment period. This has resulted in may comments being submitted to OSHAwhich you can read on its webpage.

Most recently, OSHAhas published a notice of a public hearing in the Federal Register [2024-16126.pdf (govinfo.gov)]. It has noted that: “OSHAis scheduling an informal public hearing on its proposed rule ‘Emergency Response Standard.” The public hearing will begin November 12, 2024 at 9:30 a.m. Eastern Time.

It notes further:

“Informal public hearing: The hearing will be held virtually and will begin on November 12, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. ET. If necessary, the hearing will continue from 9:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. ET, On subsequent weekdays.”

Preliminary information on how to participate in the public hearing is also provided on the site:

“Notice of Intention to Appear (NOITA). ANOITAmust be submitted electronically at https://www.osha.gov/emergency-response/rulemaking. Follow the instructions online for making electronic submissions. Those who file a NOITAmust also submit electronic copies of all documents that they intend to use or reference during their testimony. Information about how and when to submit these materials will be provided at the time of registration.”

We will continue to keep our membership informed on this important matter.

MOTLEY CREWS OF THE MONTH

Members of the Wading RiverFire Department at East Marion’s 125th Anniversary Parade. - Photo and caption by Wayne Preston, Jr.

The Terryville Fire Department softball team are back-to-back champions in the Town of Brookhaven league. - Fire News photo by 2nd Assistant Chief Mike Russo

Members of East Meadow Fire Department Engine 2 following a Prospect Avenue house fire on August 27, 2024. - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com

Farmingville’s finest. - Fire News photo by Jim

Grove Fire Department members aftertraining on July 27, 2024. - Fire News photo by

responders aftera successful turtle rescue. - Fire News photo by

Members of the South Hempstead Fire Department at a working fire in Hempstead on the night of September4, 2024. - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com

Cherry

Nikki Teague

Setauket

Joseph C. Sperber

Dunn

Sound Beach Fire Department at Southampton Fire Department’s Muster. - Fire News photo by Wayne Preston

W. Hempstead Westerners Celebrate 50 Years of B Truck

On August 10, 2024, the West Hempstead Westerners along with the department and alumni celebrated 50 years of theirB Truck on the track. Members came from all overthe island to talk about old times and meet the new team and wish them all well in the upcoming State Drill. Images were taken with all the alumni on one side

and all the present team on the otherside. Aspecial picture was taken of ex-Chief Ed DiMonda who was Chief in 1974 when the B Truck went into service. He also ran on the team from 1957 to 1971.

- Fire News photos by Bill D’Alessandro

2nd Battalion Parade and 100th Anniversary of Island Park FD

Nassau’s 2nd Battalion Parade held on August 10. 2024, was also the 100th Anniversary of the Island Park Fire Department.

- Fire News photos by Susan Reese

On August 6, 2024, around 0600, the Mastic Beach Fire Department was called fora structure fire on Cypress Drive and Dogwood Road East. First on scene was Chief Roy Arcuri who radioed he had a working fire. First truck on scene was Unit 2. Chief Arcuri requested Mastic Fire to the scene and CenterMoriches to standby at Mastic Beach. Suffolk County Police were on scene and Mastic Beach Fire Police. Mastic Beach Ambulance set up a triage station. The fire was brought undercontrol quickly and there were no reported injuries.

- Photos by Jim Rugen, Mastic Beach FD photographer

Mastic Beach Structure

Riverhead Raceway 1st ResponderNight

On August 30, 2024 several members of the Southampton Fire Department attended the First ResponderNight at Riverhead Raceway. Trucks 7-3-14 and Chiefs truck 7-3-30 were in the on-track parade. Agreat night of racing was had by all.

- Submitted by Chris Brenner,Sr. ex Chief and PIO Southampton FD

Brothers Becoming Brothers

South Farmingdales newest members Michael and Brian Queren get sworn in by CommissionerFred Heffel as theirfamily and friends looked on. Michael has been assigned to Truck Company and Brian, who came up through ourjuniors program and was most recently its Captain, is joining Engine Company.

East Marion Celebrates 125 Years of Service

-

The East Marion Fire Department recently celebrated their125th anniversary with a parade down Main Road. Several local fire departments marched to celebrate this majormilestone. Congratulations East Marion.

Photos and caption by Wayne Preston, Jr.

- Photo by P. Smyth, PIO

Merrick Firehouse

Demolition

Demolition of Merrick Fire Department Friendship Engine and Hose Company Number 2's quarters in Merrick began on the morning of August 8, 2024. Anew firehouse that will better suit the company’s modern-day needs and help them betterserve the community is being built on the site of the formerfirehouse and will include the two properties to the north. The process to build a new firehouse is expected to take up to 18 months. In the interim the company has been and will continue to be housed at the formerNew York State Armory in Freeport, a short distance away. - Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com

Babylon First Responders Honored

On August 12, 2024, at the DeerPark firehouse,Town of Babylon SupervisorRich Schaffer and Town officials, Suffolk County LegislatorTom Donnelly (a memberof the DeerPark Fire Department), and New York State Senator Monica Martinez presented proclamations and certificates of appreciation from Suffolk County Executive Edward P. Romaine to the members of DeerPark, Babylon, Dix Hills, North Babylon, West Babylon and the Wyandanch-Wheatley Heights Ambulance Corp as well as Babylon Central Fire Alarm and otheragencies for all that was done by the horrific and deadly MVAon June 28, 2024 at the Hawaii Nail and Spa on Grand Boulevard in DeerPark, in which fourpeople, including an off-duty NYPD officer, were killed.

- Fire News photos by BTFirePhoto

Massapequa Bedroom Fire

The Massapequa Fire Department responded fora house fire on McKinley Place about 0400 on August 30, 2024. First Assistant Chief Zimmerman arrived to fire in a second-floorbedroom. Second and 3rd Assistant Chiefs McCaffrey and Kennedy arrived shortly after. Ladder636 was followed by Engines 6311 and 6315 and Ladder6326, and at least one Ambulance. The crew from 6311 put the first line into operation, and the crew from 6315 stretched a second line. The truck crews laddered, vented and searched the home with all searches being negative. The fire was quickly knocked down and contained to the one room. Seaford, Wantagh and North Massapequa were requested for mutual aid, but all were given a disregard due to fire being extinguished so quickly. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation.

- Fire News photos by Paul Mazza

Islip Town Parade

The Islip Town parade was hosted by the Sayville Fire Department on August 10, 2024. - Fire News photos by Kim Versheck

New President Elected at the Museum

On July 26, 2024, at the annual Board meeting of the FASNYMuseum of Firefighting, Ron Oettel was elected President of the Museum Board. Ron is a nearly lifelong resident of Lititz, PA, having graduated from Warwick High School. He continued his education as an honors graduate of Millersville University, with a degree in accounting and marketing, and a minor in economics.

Ron spent numerous years in the world of public accounting. He was a sales and marketing manager in the manufacturing industry, and then became a regional director and partner with Provident Insurance. Provident is a specialty insurer of emergency services organizations. Ron left Provident to start his own business, specializing in providing unique insurance solutions and guidance for emergency service groups, ranging from fire departments, EMS organizations, police departments, as well as other related groups and associations. In addition to his work in the insurance industry servicing first responders, Ron is also pursuing another passion project: building an ambulance transport business.

Ron’s fire service involvement includes activities at the local, state and national levels. Ron stepped into the arena of community service in 1980, when he joined the Lititz Fire Company. Since that time, he has served the fire company in many roles and capacities including Secretary, Assistant Treasurer, President, Firefighter, Lieutenant, Captain, Assistant Chief, and most notably, as Chief for 25 years.

Ron served four different terms as President of the Lancaster County Fire Chiefs’Association, served on the board as chair of the Lancaster County Public Safety Center. He also served on the Lancaster CountyWide Communications Committee for the development of a P25 public safety radio system, and was a member of the State Senate SR 60 Commission that was charged with developing ideas and solutions to sustain a strong volunteer fire and EMS delivery system in PA. He has been deeply involved with the Volunteer and Combination Officers Section (VCOS) of the International Fire Chiefs’Association, serving as VCOS board member from 2018 to 2021. In addition to his service to his community as a firefighter, Ron served as the mayor of Lititz Borough from 2010 through 2014.

Ron is a member of many local, state and national emergency services organizations including the International Fire Chiefs Association, the Volunteer and Combination Officers section of the IAFC, the Safety, Health and Survival Section of the IAFC, The National Volunteer Fire Council, Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firefighters Association and other fire and emergency related organizations. Ron currently resides in Lititz with, Jody, his wife of 34 years, and their two Dalmatians, Henry and Baxter. Ron enjoys their family camp in Tioga County, riding ATVs, travel, being outdoors, building and remodeling tasks and tackling just about any chore that involves using tools.

To learn more about the museum, visit www.fasnyfiremuseum.com.

2024 NYS Championship Parade

2024 NYS Championship Parade hosted by Central Islip August 17, 2024

- Fire News photos by Kim Versheck and Susan Reese

Southampton FFWins Race at Riverhead Raceway

On July 31, 2024, Pat Collins, Jr., won the eight-cylinderGut and Go Race at Riverhead Raceway, surrounded by family and friends. Pat Jr., 19, won his first race with his fatherPat Sr., right on his bumperplacing second. Pat Sr., is current Captain Southampton Fire Department and pat Jr., is following in his footsteps as a Firefighterwith Southampton. - Fire News photos by Chris Brenner

– DeerPark Juniors –

Juniors News News You C Can U Use –

Deer Park Juniors Present the Colors

On August 20, 2024, the DeerPark Fire Department Juniors had the honorof presenting the colors forthe National Anthem at the Long Island Ducks game versus the Staten Island FerryHawks. The Ducks won 8-6. - Fire News photos by BTFirePhoto

– Bethpage Juniors –

Bethpage Juniors at a recent ceremony. - Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com

Westhampton Juniors

–

Westhampton Juniors Bell Ceremony

Recently, Westhampton Beach JuniorFire Department honored and remembered Reina Nash and herfamily as well as the victims of 9/11 by holding a bell ceremony known as striking the 4 - 5s which is a honorary tradition in the fire service since 1865. Reina was a memberof the Juniors in 2004. - Submitted by Cody Hoyle

– South Farmingdale Juniors –

New member for So. Farmingdale

On September10, 2024, South Farmingdale welcomed its newest memberCameron Frontino. Cameron came up through the department’s juniors program and will be assigned to Engine Company alongside his fatherPhil. Officers, members and family were on hand forthe event.

- Fire News photo courtesy Jeff Tasch, Commissioner SFFD

News You C Can U Use

– Selden Juniors –

Selden Juniors Go Back-to-Back

On August 18, 2024, the New York State Fireman’s Parade was held in Central Islip. The day started off cloudy and eventually the rain broke through. Departments marched through the rain all the way to the finish. As the day progressed and departments waited on results, they barbecued and hung out. At the time of trophy announcements Selden Fire Department took first place forBest Appearing Fire Department ages 26 to 35. The Selden JuniorCompany also took first place forBest Appearing JuniorFire Department Class B forthe second yearin a row. Congratulations to the Selden Fire Department and the Junior Company on theirback-to-back wins. The Selden tradition continues. - Fire News photos by Chase Millwater/Selden FD Junior Company

Dix Hills FD

CarShow

The 10th Annual Dix Hills Fire Department Company 2 carshow fundraiserwas held on September8, 2024. - Photos by Drew Silverman, DHFD PIO

Glenwood Wetdown & Dedication

On September1, 2024, the Glenwood Fire Company held a dedication and wetdown forthe new TowerLadder538. Assigned to Headquarters, the new 538 was placed into service in Septemberof 2023 and is a 2023 Seagrave Marauder 75-foot Midpoint Aerialscope. The new 538 replaces a 1996 Simon-Duplex 93-foot TowerLadder. The dedication ceremony was led by ex-Chief Roperand following brief opening remarks, an invocation was given by Department Chaplin Zeins. Following the invocation, TowerLadder538 was offi-

cially dedicated to ex-Chief/ex-Trustee William ‘Swifty’ Swift Jr., a 54-yearmemberwho was an instrumental part of the truck committee until his passing in 2021. Afterthe reveal of the dedication plaque, the truck was officially christened with a ceremonial champagne break by ex-Chief Swift, Jr.’s wife. Following the ceremony, TowerLadder538 was wet down by apparatus from neighboring departments. Congratulations to Glenwood on theirnew apparatus! - Fire News photos by www.OverTheEdgePhotography.com

September 2, 2024

1stNorth Bellmore Rinky Dinks24

2ndMiller Place Extinguishers 21

3rdSouth Hempstead Rascals 15 West Hempstead Westerners 15 5thWestbury Turtles12

- Fire News photos by Bill D’Alessandro

Friendship Engine and Hose Time Capsule Opening

On September12, 2024, past and present members of Merrick Fire Department Friendship Engine and Hose Company 2 gathered to open two time capsules that were found at theirformerfirehouse, located at the cornerof Babylon Turnpike and Meadowbrook Road. The objects were found when the house was taken down in August to make way fora new firehouse. The first capsule dated back to 1931 (when the first addition was made to the firehouse), and contained copies of paperwork from 1922 when the company was formed. The second was a box dating back to 1961 when the next addition was made to the firehouse.

- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com

FASNYBlock Party

At this year’s 152nd Annual FASNYConvention the 2ndAnnual Block Party was held on August 8, 2024, in Niagara Falls. The party had a retro theme and featured a local band Nerds Gone Wild along with food trucks and various games. Pictured are juniorpast President Ed Tase and his wife Linda, and Trustee forthe FASNYHome on the Hudson, Marty Thomas and his wife April.

- Fire News photos by Jim Lepard Digital Imaging

August 17, 2024

1stCentral Islip Hoboes30

2ndWest Sayville Flying Dutchmen18

3rdIslip Wolves17.5

4thHagerrman Gamblers16

5thSouth Hempstead Rascals7

- Fire News photos by Kim Versheck and Susan Reese

The Freeport Fire Department responded to the report of an attic fire in a private dwelling on Jay Street on August 29, 2024. Engine companies responded and promptly extinguished the blaze. Multiple occupants were able to safely escape safely.

- Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

Freeport Fire Snuffed

CarFire in Glen Cove

On August 31, 2024, at approximately 2250, the city of Glen Cove Fire Department was dispatched to a reported carfire at Taco Bell on Forest Avenue. Chief of Department Grella confirmed an SUV on fire in the drive-through line with no exposure issues. Engine 528

stretched a line to quickly knock down the vehicle fire. Crews operated on scene forapproximately 30 minutes. All operations were underthe direction of Chief of Department Grella. - Fire News photo by www.OverTheEdgePhotography.com

Truck Rollover on the LIE

The Jericho Fire Department responded to an overturned cement truck eastbound on the Long Island Expressway at Exit 41 South in Jericho on August 14, 2024 at 0618. The driverwas removed from the truck by NCPD Highway Patrol officers and transported by Jericho Fire Department ambulance to Nassau University Medical Centerin East Meadow suffering various non-life threatening injuries. Jericho firefighters along with Nassau County Fire Marshal hazmat units mitigated fluid leaks from the truck.

- Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber

Franklin Square & Munson Handle CarFire

DeerPark 2-Car MVA

On August 23, 2024, at 1747 the DeerPark Fire Department responded to an two-carMVAat the cornerof Grand Boulevard and East 6th Street. One of the cars continued across a front lawn ripping up bushes then crashing through a fence and finally coming to a stop when hitting an above ground swimming pool. The pool was destroyed by the impact causing all the water to flow into the yard and out into the street. Engine 1-4-6 crew secured both vehicles. One person was transported to the local hospital forunknown injuries.

- Fire News photo by BTFirePhoto

Fire broke out in an automobile parked at the T-Mobile store on Hempstead Turnpike and Nassau Boulevard in Garden City South around 1915 on August 25, 2024. Franklin SquareMunson firefighters arrived quickly on the scene and were able to extinguish the blaze before it extended into the building.

- Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

2 Cars on Fire in Brentwood

On August 14, 2024, at 0159, the Brentwood Fire Department responded to White Street fora reported vehicle fire. Chief of Department 3-2-30 was first on scene and confirmed an unoccupied vehicle and a work van on fire. Firefighters quickly extinguished the fire without incident. There were no reports of injuries and the cause of the fire is underinvestigation. - Fire News photos by Evan Rolla

Dix Hills House Fire

Just before 2300 h on August 17, 2024, the Dix Hills Fire Department responded to a house fire on the South Service Road. Underthe command of Chief Napolitano, firefighters stretched two 1-3/4 inch handlines to extinguish the fire and performed searches of the house. The fire took about 35 minutes to bring undercontrol. There were no reported injuries and the cause of the fire was underinvestigation. Mutual aid was provided by DeerPark, Melville, Wyandanch, Greenlawn and Commack.

- Fire News photo by Evan Rolla

3 Hurt in Brentwood Rollover

Around 0200 on August 18, 2024, the Brentwood Fire Department was dispatched to an MVAwith overturn and heavy rescue on Express Drive South. Crews confirmed one person trapped in the vehicle. Firefighters from Engine 2 extricated the victim. Three people were transported to the hospital, one with serious injuries.

- Fire News photo by Evan Rolla

CarFire Held from Extending to House

In the early morning hours of September 2, 2024, the Uniondale Fire Department operated at the scene of a carfire in the driveway of a home on ChesterStreet off Hempstead Boulevard. Firefighters put one handline into operation off Uniondale Engine 7522. Despite the vehicle being in close proximity to the residence there was no extension inside the structure. The cause of the fire was believed to be suspicious. All fire department units were underthe command of Uniondale Chief of Department Martinez.

- Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com

Fireworks TrailerFire

On August 15, 2024, the Smithtown Fire Department received a call fora reported truck fire on West Jericho Turnpike just after 2200. Chief Andrew Kelly was first on scene and reported a pickup truck with a trailerof fireworks had ignited. When firefighters arrived, they cooled the ignited fireworks and removed the unignited fireworks from the trailer. - Fire News photo by Evan Rolla

New Commish

in South Farmingdale

Chairman Fred Heffel swears in South Farmingdale’s new commissioner, Patrick Fullshire, at the September10, 2024, meeting. Pat will finish out this year’s vacant term and run forthe four remaining years come December.

- Fire News photo courtesy of Jeff Tasch, Comm. SFFD

MOTLEY CREWS OF THE MONTH

Jamesport firefighters on an RITresponse to Riverhead on an August 5, 2024, residential fire.

- Fire News photo by Gary Faucon

Members of Hicksville Station 4 on the scene of a Jericho house fire on the night August 5, 2024.

- Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com

- Fire News photo by BTFirePhoto

Members of the Holtsville Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez

The crew of Commack FFD Engine 2-11-12 afteroperating at a house fire on KilmerAvenue in Dix Hills on August 2, 2024.

- Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber

Hicksville Engine 934 at a recent Spindle Road fire. - Fire News photo by Harry Loud

Bohemia and Lakeland fire departments joined the Suffolk County PD in honoring OfficerNicholas Vezzi’s retirement. -Fire News photo by Sue Orlando, Bohemia FD PIO

The Smithtown Fire Department fire police unit assisted at the annual East Northport Firefighters parade on August 7, 2024. - Fire New photo by Joseph C. Sperber

The West Babylon Fire Department covered the DeerPark Fire Department on August 10, 2024, while they were out of service.

HENDRICKSON FIRE RESCUE EQUIPMENT EXPANDS WITH NEWSTATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITYIN ROCKLAND COUNTY, NY

Hendrickson Fire Rescue Equipment, a renowned full-service dealership for leading emergency vehicle brands, is excited to announce the opening of its new facility in Rockland County, NY. This expansion underscores Hendrickson’s dedication to providing more accessible service solutions to fire departments throughout the Lower Hudson Valley area.

The new facility is located at 227 Route 303, Suite 106, Congers, NY, and is outfitted with cutting-edge tools and technology. This allows Hendrickson’s team of EVTcertified technicians to deliver industry-leading warranty service and high-quality repairs. The expansion aims to better serve departments in the region, minimize vehicle downtime, and enhance community safety and emergency response effectiveness.

Services available at the new facility include:

• Preventative Maintenance

• Electrical System Diagnosis and Repair

• Brakes, Steering, Suspension, and Alignments

• Drive-train Services

• Oil and Fluid Sample Testing

• Pump Testing, Maintenance, and Repair

• Ladder Cleaning and Repair, and Ladder Testing

• Generator Service

• Lighting Upgrades

“We’re not merely broadening our reach; we’re enhancing our capacity to support the departments that ensure the safety of our communities,” remarked Craig Probst, President of Hendrickson Fire Rescue Equipment. “The establishment of our new facility in Rockland County will decrease service-related travel time and symbolizes our unwavering dedication to quality, dependability, and the communities we serve. We eagerly anticipate building even more robust collaborations with local departments in the Rockland County region.”

For more information about Hendrickson Fire Rescue Products, please visit our website at www.hendricksonfire.com.

FUELINGINNOVATION AND UNITY: INSIDE THE EMS & FIRE PRO EXPO

The premier gathering for First Responders, the EMS & FIRE PRO Expo, established in 2014, is held annually in Connecticut. This annual event serves as a beacon of innovation and collaboration, drawing first responders from across the nation to share knowledge, discover cutting-edge technologies, and forge lasting connections.

At the EMS & FIRE PRO Expo, attendees immerse themselves in a dynamic environment where learning is paramount and camaraderie thrives. From informative workshops and interactive demonstrations to engaging networking sessions, every aspect of the expo is meticulously curated to enrich the attendee experience.

One of the standout features of the EMS & FIRE PRO Expo is its diverse lineup of speakers and presenters. Renowned experts in the field share insights into the latest trends, techniques, and best practices, empowering attendees to enhance their skills and stay ahead of the curve. Whether it’s an enlightening keynote address or a handson workshop led by seasoned professionals, each session offers invaluable opportunities for learning and growth.

Beyond the educational offerings, the expo boasts a bustling

exhibit hall filled with leading vendors showcasing state-of-the-art equipment, innovative technologies, and essential resources for EMS and fire departments. Attendees have the chance to explore the latest products, engage with industry experts, and discover solutions to enhance their operations.

But the EMS & FIRE PRO Expo is more than just a trade show, it’s a community. Attendees come together to share stories, celebrate successes, and support one another in their shared mission to serve and protect their communities. The sense of camaraderie and unity that permeates the event is palpable, creating an environment where lasting connections are forged and lifelong friendships are made.

As the largest and fastest-growing EMS and fire expo on the East Coast, the EMS & FIRE PRO Expo is a must-attend event for anyone in the emergency services industry. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran looking to stay at the forefront of your field or a newcomer eager to learn from the best, the EMS & FIRE PRO Expo offers something for everyone. Join us for an unforgettable experience that will ignite your passion, inspire your work, and propel you to new heights in your bailiwick.

FRC’S TOH MENGRETIRES

Toh Meng became an icon in the fire industrydesigning some of the most recognizable electronic controls on pump panels and the power behind the throne at FRC for more than 40 years. He is known and respected across the industry (which spans the globe) and he will be missed as he has now officially retired. FRC employees celebrated his long career and learned some of the secrets of his success, summarized in three short rules:

1. Actively learn new things every day

2. Always be working on new things

3. Never stop doing 1 and 2

Toh had already stepped back from leadership in July, 2023 to continue in a strategic role and to help complete in-process design projects at FRC:

For more information contact: https://fireresearch.com/2023/07/12/eric-combs-joins-safefleet-fire-ems-industrial-team-3/

- Fire News photos by Steve Takacs

Obituary Franklin Square’s, Coram’s Frederic Walther

Frederic Walther, a dedicated and beloved member of the firefighting community, passed away peacefully at the age of 82.

Beginning his career at the Franklin Square Fire Department in February 1962, Frederic’s commitment to serving and protecting his community was unwavering. During his time at Franklin Square, he served as a Lieutenant of Engine 1 from 1965 to 1966 and later as Captain from 1966 to 1967.

His contributions extended beyond his roles in the department, as he was an integral part of the Square Shooters Drill Team from 1962 to 1967. Frederic’s dedication to excellence was evident in all aspects of his service. In 1972, Frederic moved to Coram and continued his impactful career at the Coram Fire Department. His leadership and passion for firefighting led to his appointment as Department Captain from 1974 to 1975. He also held the position of Charter Captain of Victory Snorkel Company 1 in 1975 and served as the 2nd Assistant Chief before becoming the Chief of the Department from 1979 to 1980.

Frederic’s legacy lives on through his family, including his beloved wife Katherine, his daughter Suzanne, and his son Robert, who continues his father’s legacy as the current Chief of the Coram Fire

Department. Additionally, his grandson Nicholas is proudly following in his footsteps as member of the Yaphank Fire Department. Frederic’s impact on the firefighting community and the lives he touched is immeasurable. He will be dearly missed and remembered for his selfless dedication, and unwavering commitment to serving others.

- Story by Chief Justin Donovan; photos by Jim Dunn