Editorial

From the Editor’s Desk

Dennis Whittam, Editor Reflections on 9/11 and a Busy Fall Season

As I write this editorial, the date is September 1, 2022. This editorial is my October editorial. Sitting at my desk, my mind is reflecting ahead to September 11, 2022. Taking a few moments remembering the day our nation was attacked, it is our duty to never forget September 11, 2001. I remember driving to work on a clear crisp day. The major story on the radio was about a “small” airplane that crashed into the World Trade Center. When I arrived at work, I immediately turned on the news and realized the airplane was not a small plane and my city was probably under attack. Yes, we were under attack. I reflected and shared my recollection with my readers for the past 21 years.

Last year, I attended as many memorial services as possible. One year later I find myself thanking many of my photographers who joined me and spread throughout as many communities as possible, capturing photographs of the memorial services. Fire News utilized our photographs in our 9/11 20th Anniversary-Fire News Remembrance and Tribute edition. This magazine was a work of art that remembered all those lost on September 11, 2001, and continued paying tribute to those that passed away over the past 20 years due to illnesses spurred by toxic chemicals generated by the attack. When I pass Memorial Sloan Kettering Medical Center, it is still common to find an FDNYFirefighter Transport Unit waiting outside of the hospital to bring one of our loved ones back home.

As we move into 2023, try to think about something special your department can do to bring peace in our world. Plan on reflecting with your neighboring departments to never forget September 11, 2001. Remember to never forget those that continue to be lost to 9/11 diseases. Never Forget!

As the summer months are passing us by and we enter the fall, are you prepared to do your job under different conditions? Already I am finding that the windows on my car are fogging up on the inside, making response a little slower. Before you know it, the inside fog will move to the outside of your car windows, and you will be reminded that winter is not far away. Please take the time to clear off your frosted windows before you respond to a call. Think about the children who are waiting at school bus stops. Use caution while responding through school zones and bus stops. I have seen two students who were badly hurt when they tried to run across a busy street to catch a bus that they were late for.

Is your fire prevention program updated with new ideas to bring to the kids in your district? Yes, September and October are busy times in the fire service. Polish off your ideas and incorporate new activities into your Safety Programs. If you need help, meet with your Fire Prevention Committees to discuss what you can do to embellish your Fire Prevention Program.

Remember; if it wasn’t for the beep, you would still be asleep! Change your smoke and CO detector batteries or if you have 10-year detectors, check their dates to ensure that they are still good.

Stay safe!

- Dennis

Dix Hills Battles House Fire

The Dix Hills Fire Department was dispatched to reports of a house fire on Calumet Drive, on August 30, 2022, at about 2155. Firefighters arrived to heavy fire on the first and second floors and through the roof of a two-story home. Crews began a very aggressive interiorattack on the blaze and were able to knock-down a large volume of fire in a short period of time. About 60 firefighters using nine trucks had the blaze undercontrol within 40 minutes. DeerPark, Melville, Wyandanch and Greenlawn assisted at the scene, with standby coverage from Commack and Commack VAC. One firefighterwas transported to Huntington Hospital by the Dix Hills Rescue Squad, and was treated and released. Units were underthe command of Chief Joseph Williamson. - Fire News story and photos by Steve Silverman and Paul Miller

Albertson Electrical Fire

On June 18, 2022, just before 1500, the Albertson Fire Company was dispatched to a reported basement fire on Shepherd Lane. Engine 806 found an electrical fire in the basement behind the electrical panel. Aprecautionary line was stretched while crews opened the walls to locate and extinguish the fire while awaiting PSE&G. The scene was placed undercontrol in approximately 30 minutes. - Fire News photo by OverTheEdgePhotography.com

New Hyde Park Garage Fire

The New Hyde Park Fire Department responded to a garage fire on June 28, 2022. The fire was in a detached garage on Albert Street nearLincoln Avenue. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

Huntington Auto Body Shop Fire

The Huntington Fire Department was dispatched fora commercial structure fire on August 5, 2022, at 1540 on New York Avenue and Creek Road. Chiefs arrived to a well-involved auto body shop. Crews began an aggressive exteriorattack, as multiple towerladders and handlines were placed into operation. About 100 firefighters from Huntington, Halesite, Huntington Manor, Cold Spring Harbor, Greenlawn, Centerport, Northport, East Northport, Melville, Dix Hills, Eaton’s Neck and Syosset responded as well as the Huntington Community First Aid Squad. Enduring sweltering ambient conditions, firefighters had the hot and smoky fire under control within three hours. Suffolk County Fire-Rescue provided assistance with coordinators, MERV(MajorEmergency Response Vehicle) and the Drone Team. One civilian suffered a leg injury and was transported to Huntington Hospital. Units were underthe command of Chief Scott Dodge supported by Assistant Chief Sean Schwierand Deputy Chiefs Paul Smith and Matt Getter. The Town of Huntington Fire Marshal and Suffolk County Police Arson Squad are investigating. - Fire News story by Steve Silverman; photos courtesy Huntington FD and OverTheEdgePhotography.com

South Farmingdale Attic Fire

On August 13, 2022, the South Farmingdale Fire Department was dispatched to a reported house fire on Paula Drive. Second Assistant Chief McFarlane arrived to fire in the attic of a two-story house. Engine 971 stretched the initial line into the house. Two lines were stretched to extinguish the main body of fire with the assistance of crews from Farmingdale, Massapequa and Bethpage. The fire was placed undercontrol in approximately 20 minutes. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation. - Fire News photos by Over The Edge Photography and Bryan Lopez

DeerPark CarFire

Recently, the DeerPark Fire Department responded to a single-car overturn MVA, which was fully involved flames. The MVAwas on Commack Road just north of Burlington Avenue. The fire was stubborn and kept flaring up so DeerPark extinguished the fire with foam. There were three people in the carwho were out of the vehicle upon DeerPark’s arrival. The three were transported to local hospitals. - Fire News photo by BTFirePhoto

Dual Response for Amityville Garage Fire

The Amityville and Copiague Fire Departments were alerted fora dual response fora house fire on Bryan Avenue in Amityville about 1730 on August 15, 2022. First Assistant Chief Juliano arrived to smoke showing from the garage of a 1-1/2 story home. Copiague Engines 1-3-10 and 1-1-3 stretched lines. Massapequa Ladder636 began venting and searching the home. The fire was contained to the garage and brought undercontrol within an hour. Additional mutual aid to the scene was provided by the North Amityville, South Farmingdale and North Lindenhurst. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza

Quick Stop Saves Houses on Fire Island

On August 13, 2022, at 0034, the Ocean Beach Fire Department was dispatched fora structure fire on Atlantic Avenue in Seaview. Upon arrival, 1st Assistant Chief Hesse and 2nd Assistant Chief Brennan found one house fully involved and the siding on the exposure D house lighting off. Aquick knock-down of the main body of fire, along with the exteriorwall of exposure D, prevented spread to additional buildings. In addition to the three engines from OBFD, mutual aid was provided by Fair Harbor, Ocean Bay Park and Point O’Woods. - Fire News photos by Marty Leiderman

East Meadow House Fire

The East Meadow Fire Department took numerous calls reporting a house fire in the vicinity of North Jerusalem Road and Bethlynn Court about 1900 on August 19, 2022. Chief of Department Cheswick arrived to fire in the attic of a two-story, split level home. Engine 612 dropped two lines at the house and Ladders 617, 619 and North Bellmore Ladder 658 (FAST), set up in front of the house. The engine crews operated both lines as the truck crews laddered, vented, searched and opened up areas. The fire was brought undercontrol in about 45 minutes. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza and K2MPhotography.com

Bethpage Structure Fires

On June 6, 2022, just before 1830, the Bethpage Fire Department was dispatched to a report of a house fire on Stewart Avenue. Second Assistant Chief Castelliano arrived to find an exteriorfire between Sunrise Dairy and house with the fire impinging on both structures. Engine 9077 placed the first line into operation while Ladder3 began to open up the structures and found additional fire in the overhang of Sunrise Dairy. Two handlines were stretched to extinguish the fire in both structures. With the assistance of crews from South Farmingdale and Levittown, the fire was quickly knocked down and placed undercontrol in under45 minutes underthe direction of Chief of Department Castles.

- Fire News photos by Over The Edge Photography

Outbuilding Fire at Boatbuilder

On August 12, 2022, at 2227, the Bellport Fire Department responded to a structure fire at SteigerCraft on Bellport Avenue. Abuilding in the back of the property was fully involved upon arrival. Firefighters were on scene forovertwo-hours extinguishing the blaze. Thanks to Hagerman and Brookhaven fire departments for theirmutual aid and to South Country Ambulance and SCPD for theirassistance. - Fire News photo by John Mehrkens, Hana Mackin and Gary Pils

Roslyn CarFires

On July 28, 2022, the Roslyn Rescue and Roslyn Highlands fire companies were dispatched to a report of multiple cars on fire on HarborPark Drive. Rescue 1st Assistant Chief Collura was quickly on scene and found two vehicles on fire in the parking lot. Engine 567 stretched a line to extinguish the fire in both vehicles. The scene was placed undercontrol in approximately 30 minutes. - Fire News photo by Over The Edge Photography

Fire at Nesconset Group Home

The Nesconset Fire Department was activated fora reported residential structure fire at a group residence on Diane Court at 1540 on August 12, 2022. Apasserby noticed a fire on the outside of the structure and alerted the occupants. Flames and smoke were observed on the exteriorof the structure upon arrival of the first fire department unit. Firefighters from Engine 4-4-1 placed an 1-3/4 inch line into operation. Engine 44-3 established a watersupply and assisted with stretching and preparing a back-up line foroperation. The exteriorfire was quickly knocked down with very little extension into the attic space. Mutual aid came from Lakeland, Ronkonkoma, Hauppauge, Centereach, Smithtown and St. James. All units operated underthe command of Chief Frank Ragona. - Fire News photo by Michael Wichtendahl

The Franklin Square Fire Department received multiple calls fora detached garage fire on SchererBoulevard on August 28, 2022. Firefighters encountered a heavy fire condition on arrival with radiant heat causing extension to nearby structures. - Fire News photos by FirstOnscenePhotos.com

Franklin Square Garage Fire

Massapequa House Fire

On July 4, 2022, the Massapequa Fire Department responded to St. Marks Place fora house fire. Units arrived to a fire that had been extinguished on the siding of a house. Afterfurtherinvestigation, units found fire had traveled into the residence and into the eaves. Mutual aid was provided by Wantagh and Seaford. All units on scene operated underthe command of Chief of Department William Monjardo. - Fire News photo by TNT Photography

Syosset Battles Intense Flames

On September10, 2022, at 1641, the Syosset Fire Department was alerted fora house fire on Bluebird Drive. The responding chiefs were notified that numerous calls were received reporting flames out the windows. Engine 585 stretched two 1-3/4 inch handlines which quickly knocked down visible fire. TowerLadder582 put theirbucket to work also. Numerous mutual aid departments were requested. All operations were underthe command of Chief of Department Pete Silver. It was reported that an Amazon delivery driver saw the flames and notified the occupants of the home who had not seen the flames. All occupants safely escaped. - Fire News photos by Matthew Eysser

Riverhead Mulch Fire Draws a Crowd

The Riverhead Fire Department responded to a mulch fire shortly before 0100 off Middle Country Road in Calverton. Riverhead Chief Joe Hartmann said at least 70 firefighters from more than a dozen area departments answered Riverhead’s call formutual aid fortwo large mulch piles on fire. The departments responded with tankers, brush trucks and ladder-towertrucks. The fire was declared undercontrol just before 0600. Mutual aid came from Wading River, Rocky Point, Ridge, Flanders, Hampton Bays, Southampton, Westhampton, Eastport, East Moriches, Center Moriches, Mattituck, Southold and Riverhead Ambulance. The scene was turned overto Riverhead Fire Marshals. - Fire News photos by ex-Chief Steve Beal, story by Chief Nicholas Luparella

Plainview House Fire

In the early evening of July 25, 2022, the Plainview Fire Department responded to a residence on Hofstra Drive fora fire. Syosset was alerted fora dual-response engine, and due to both laddertrucks being out of service, Bethpage Ladder4 was notified as perthe mutual aid plan. Upon furtherinvestigation, fire was found on the second floor, as well as the attic. Two handlines were stretched and mutual aid was provided by Syosset, Bethpage, Huntington Manor, North Massapequa, Westbury, Hicksville and South Farmingdale. All units on scene operated underthe command of Chief Mayrose. - Fire News photo by TNT Photography

Sea Cliff BarFire

The Glenwood and Sea Cliff fire departments responded to a building fire at Tappen Beach on September2, 2022. The fire may have originated in the kitchen of the Beach Barand quickly spread into the attic. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos

St. James House Fire

The Saint James Fire Department responded to a house fire on Monterrey Drive in Saint James on August 19, 2022, at 1835. Afire broke out in a room of the home and was quickly extinguished. Nesconset, Stony Brook, Centereach and Smithtown responded on mutual aid. The Smithtown Town Fire Marshal and Suffolk Police were on scene investigating the cause. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber

Franklin Sq.-Munson Handles Garage Blaze

On July 13, 2022, just after2300, the Franklin Square and Munson Fire Department was dispatched fora report of a garage fire on Howard Avenue. Chief of Department Gerrato arrived to fire showing from a large detached garage close to the house. Engine 711 stretched the first line to begin extinguishing the garage fire. With at least two vehicles burning in the garage and propane and gasoline tanks fueling the fire, the fire extended to the house causing a second alarm to be transmitted. Numerous lines were placed into operation to extinguish the fire in both structures with the garage ultimately collapsing. The main body of fire was knocked down in approximately 30 minutes with extensive overhaul required. Mutual aid came from Elmont, West Hempstead, Malverne, Lakeview, Garden City, New Hyde Park and Valley Stream. The cause of the fire was under investigation. - Fire News photos by Over The Edge Photography

Quick Stop on Auto Fire in DeerPark

On September4, 2022, at 1057 the DeerPark Fire Department responded to a fully involved auto in the driveway of a house on Tell Avenue. Engine 1-4-11 got wateron the involved auto quickly, stopping any possible extension of the fire to the house. The heat and the flames wrinkled the siding and the firefighters pulled the siding ensuring no extension. - Fire News photos by BTFirePhoto

N. Amityville House Fire

The North Amityville Fire Company, along with mutual aid, operated on the scene of a working fire on Corral Drive off Floral Drive on August 24, 2022. Firefighters put two handlines into operation fora fire in the basement and on the first floorof a single-story private dwelling. The fire was quickly knocked down and all occupants made it out safely. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation. North Amityville Chief of Department Thomas Nelson had command of the incident. - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com

Farmingdale Deli Fire

South Farmingdale and Farmingdale were alerted fora building fire at the Merrit Deli at Northwest Drive and Merritts Road just after2100 on August 21, 2022. Second Assistant Chief McFarlane arrived to a smoke condition in the deli and a sprinkleractivation. Engine 971 and Farmingdale Engine 923 arrived and stretched two lines from 971 with one going into operation. Ladder978 and Bethpage Ladder3 set up in front of the building. Once entry was made into the deli, the fire was quickly knocked down. The adjoining stores were checked forextension. The fire was brought under control in about 30 minutes. Mutual aid came from East Farmingdale and Bethpage. Amityville, North Massapequa and Plainview stood by at South Farmingdale. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza

East Meadow House Fire Snuffed

On August 6, 2022, the East Meadow Fire Department was dispatched to a house fire on Prospect Avenue. Second Assistant Chief Walsh arrived to smoke showing and an active fire on the second floorof the house. Two lines were stretched to extinguish the fire with the assistance of North Bellmore as the FAST. The scene was placed undercontrol in approximately 45 minutes underthe direction of Chief of Department Cheswick. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation. - Fire News photo by Over The Edge Photography

Bellport House and Truck Fire

On August 22, 2022, at 0448, the Bellport Fire Department responded to a structure fire on Michigan Avenue. Upon arrival, firefighters stretched lines to the rearof the house to combat the structure fire, and to also extinguish a pickup truck that was ablaze. Crews were on scene forapproximately two hours. - Fire News photo by John Mehrkens, BFD

Freeport Attic Fire

Freeport fire units responded to a working house fire on Norton Street on August 20, 2022. The blaze appeared to be in the attic of the two-story home with extension onto the second floor. Mutual aid companies assisted at the scene. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

On July 25, 2022, the Great Neck Vigilant Fire Company was dispatched to a reported electrical fire on Chapel Place. First Assistant Chief MacDonald was quickly on scene and transmitted a Signal 10, which was quickly upgraded to a second alarm foractive fire in an electrical room in the basement. Engine 835 began to extinguish and contain the fire, while additional crews worked to evacuate residents and checked forextension. The fire was quickly brought undercontrol with the assistance of crews from Great Neck Alerts, Manhasset-Lakeville, New Hyde Park, Plandome and Garden City Park. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation. - Fire News photos by Over The Edge Photography

Great Neck Electrical Fire

Woodmere House Fire

Late on the afternoon of July 25, 2022, the Woodmere Fire Department was dispatched to a report of a house fire on MosherAvenue off North Central Avenue. Among the first units to arrive was Woodmere Chief of Department Michael Weiss who reported a two-story private dwelling on fire. Firefighters stretched and operated multiple handlines to contain the fire which reached a third-alarm equivalency. In doing so, firefighters encountered high humidity and temperatures, as well as waterloss fora few moments. The scene was placed undercontrol approximately 85 minutes into the operation and all occupants made it safely out of the residence. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation and all fire department units were underthe command of Woodmere Chief of Department Michael Weiss. - Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com

Fire at Great Neck Village Hall

The Great Neck Alert Fire Company along with mutual aid companies operated at a fire at the Village of Great Neck Village Hall on August 9, 2022. Manhasset-Lakeville was designated the FASTand responded to the scene with Heavy Rescue 8730. During the operation a second alarm was called, which brought additional resources to the scene and new units to standby forthe Great Neck Alerts. Firefighters stretched three handlines and utilized at least two. The cause of the fire (which began as a strong thunderstorm passed through the area) was underinvestigation. All fire department units were underthe command of Great Neck Alerts Chief Purcell.

- Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com

Commercial Fire in Westbury

While units were taking up from a working house fire on Langley Lane, standby units were alerted fora building fire in the vicinity of Dickens Street and Tennyson Avenue in the New Cassel section of Westbury's district at about 2315 on September4, 2022. Jericho Third Assistant Chief Ketsoglou, Engine 944 and Mineola Ladder 168 responded. Chief Ketsoglou arrived to smoke showing from a commercial building, which housed a transferstation forWestbury PaperStock. The fire was located in a pile of material in the building. Engine 944 supplied Engine 967 as they operated two lines and had the fire quickly knocked down and contained to the one pile. A payloaderwas used to break apart the pile to extinguish any hot spots. Chief Stewart was in charge of the scene. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza and K2MPhotography.com

Carle Place Restaurant Electrical Fire

On the morning of August 27, 2022, the Carle Place Fire Department was dispatched to a reported electrical fire at Thomas’ Dineron Old Country Road. Firefighters arrived to fire showing around the electrical service on the 3 side of the structure. Although no working fire was transmitted, a first-alarm mutual aid assignment was requested including a FAST. Firefighters put at least one handline into operation and were able to keep the fire from extending. All occupants made it safely out of the restaurant and the cause of the fire was underinvestigation. - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com

CarFire in Commack

On August 14, 2022, Commack firefighters handled a vehicle fire on Harned Road, south of Veterans Memorial Highway. Engine 11 knocked down the vehicle fire and the adjoining brush fire. Engines 2, 4 and 13 also assisted. - Fire News photo by Jack O’Loughlin, CFD

Quick Work Stops Fire’s Spread

Selden Fire Department responded to a reported attic fire on Lefferts Place. Units arrived and went to work stopping a fastmoving fire from spreading. Multiple departments were called in formutual aid. No injuries were reported. The fire was under investigation by the Town of Brookhaven Fire Marshal’s Office. - Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone

EMS ACROSS THE ISLAND

Carinto Building on Rte. 110

The East Farmingdale Fire Company responded to an MVA with a carinto a building at on Route 110 about 1805 August 17, 2022. The Farmingdale and South Farmingdale fire departments were requested forambulances to the scene due to other alarms being covered by East Farmingdale. Chief Greco confirmed the carinto the building and found that the driverof an SUVreportedly pressed the gas pedal instead of the brake pedal and crashed through the front of the building with the vehicle ending up completely inside. There was no structural damage to the building. The driversuffered minorinjuries and was taken to a local hospital; an employee who was hit by glass was evaluated by EMS but was RMA. The Town of Babylon Fire Marshal and Building Inspectorwere requested to the scene as well. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza

Garden City Park Overturn

On August 13, 2022, at approximately 1015, the Garden City Park Fire Department was dispatched foran overturned auto with entrapment at the intersection of Jericho Turnpike and Nassau Boulevard. Chief of Department Sarracco and Rescue 1511 were quickly on scene and found a caroverturned on its roof and into a small wall in the parking lot of the BPGas Station. The occupant of the vehicle had self-extricated. Fire department units mitigated the spill from the vehicle while ESU worked to upright it. The driverof the vehicle was evaluated by EMS on scene. - Fire News photo by Over The Edge Photography

Bellport 2-Car

On August 18, 2022, at 0612, the Bellport Fire Department responded to a two-vehicle MVAat the intersection of Brookhaven Avenue and Post Avenue. Traffic was temporarily diverted so firefighters could clean up debris from the roadway. One person was treated forinjuries sustained in the accident. Thanks to South Country Ambulance and SCPD for theirassistance. - Fire News photo by John Mehrkens, PIO-BFD

Uniondale Overturn

On August 13, 2022, the Uniondale Fire Department was dispatched to a reported overturned auto at the intersection of Uniondale Avenue and Hempstead Boulevard. First Assistant Chief Ellerbe and TSU756 arrived to find an overturned vehicle in the roadway afterstriking a parked vehicle. All occupants of the vehicle were out. The crew of 756 secured the vehicle before up-righting it. The occupants were evaluated on scene by EMS with all units released in approximately 30 minutes. - Fire News photo by Over The Edge Photography

Overturn in Copiague

The Copiague Fire Department was alerted foran MVAwith reported overturn at Montauk Highway and Great Neck Road about 1435 on August 19, 2022. The driverof a compact SUVcollided with a carcausing the SUVto overturn onto its passengerside. There were no injuries in eithervehicle. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza

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2 Injured in Hempstead NearHead-on

Two people were injured and trapped in theirvehicle afterthey were struck by an SUVon Front Street nearSunset Drive in Hempstead early on the morning of August 25, 2022. The impact of the nearhead-on collision sheered a tire off one vehicle and sent the SUVcareening onto its side. Hempstead firefighters and police were on the scene to assist the injured. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

DWI Charge in Amityville MVA

The Amityville Fire and Police Departments responded to an MVA at Park Avenue and Broadway just after0300 on September3, 2022. First Responder1-1-81 arrived first and advised Babylon Central that he had a two-carMVAwith one vehicle into a building with a large fuel spill and significant damage to the building. Aluxury sedan collided with a compact sedan, sending it into a tree head on, injuring the driver. The luxury sedan lost control and crashed into the front of the Amityville Men’s Shop and also damaged neighboring Bella Maison InteriorDesign Center. First Assistant Chief Juliano arrived and took command of the scene and requested a Technical Rescue response to shore up the front of the building. Mutual aid came from North Amityville, East Farmingdale Technical Rescue and West Babylon Heavy Rescue. Those crews shored up the front of the men’s shop. There were two males and two females in the luxury sedan. The driverwas arrested at the scene and was latercharged with DWI. The two females, the other male and the driverof the Nissan were taken to Good Samaritan Hospital by Amityville, North Amityville and Copiague ambulances with non-life-threatening injuries.

Valley Stream Garage Fire Extends

In the early morning of September5, 2022, the Valley Stream Fire Department responded fora fully involved detached garage fire on Oak Street off Dubois Avenue. Firefighters put two handlines into operation and were able to get the main body of fire quickly knocked down. Due to the significant amount of fire, there was extension to a shed on the 3 side of the original fire building. Valley Stream Engine 343 and Ladder345 were the first engine and truck companies to arrive. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation and there were no reported injuries. - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com

Westhampton Beach MVA

The Westhampton Beach Fire Department was called out foran MVAon Old Riverhead Road in Westhampton on August 31, 2022, at approximately 2023. Second Assistant Chief Larry Saccente reported a two-carcollision just south of the entrance to the Gabreski ANGbase with one SUVon its roof in the southbound lane and a second SUVon the northbound shoulder. The fouroccupants of the first vehicle, which included an infant, were out of the vehicle by the time Chief Saccente arrived. The male driverof the second vehicle, who was the sole occupant, was trapped in his car. Westhampton Beach responded with an engine, a rescue truck, and three chiefs. Gabreski ANGresponded with an engine, a rescue truck, and a command vehicle. Crews extricated the driver, who was transported to the ANGbase and airlifted to Stony Brook University Hospital. Two occupants of the othervehicle were transported to the Peconic Bay Medical Centerwith non-life-threatening injuries.

Always Remembering OurBrothers and Sisters

Back in 1939, the Nassau County fire service on Long Island held their first memorial service to honor those volunteers in the 71 fire departments in the county, who passed away during the previous year. Each and every year, Nassau’s fire service has continued to honor and remember their fellow firefighters who have passed. And it’s been held each year on the first Sunday in May.

On May 1, 2022, Nassau’s firefighters attended their 83rd Annual United Memorial Service, which was sponsored by the Rockville Centre Fire Department and held at St. Agnes Cathedral in their village. Each year a different department hosts the service.

The service this year remembered three Line of Duty Deaths as well as 145 firefighters and 21 members of the Ladies Auxiliary, who passed away in 2020. Over 1200 family members and firefighters attended and it is believed to be one, if not, the most that have ever attended.

The annual service is coordinated by the Executive Council of Firematic Associations of Nassau County. - Fire News story by Steve Grogan; photos by Richard Law

Johnny Mac Fundraisera Success

On July 28, 2022 the Johnny Mac Foundation held its 12th Annual Golf Classic at Stonebridge Country Club. The event, which typically sells out months in advance, was a huge success. This year’s honorees were Former FDNYChief of Department Tom Richardson and Former FRES CommissionerJohn Jordan. The Johnny Mac Foundation is named in memory of FDNYFirefighter John F. McNamara. The Foundation’s mission is to assist first responders, locally and nationwide and the local community of Bayport-Blue Point and beyond. - Fire News photos provided by the Johnny Mac Foundation; “Whatever it Takes!” - JM 2008

Red Knights 25 Donate $15Gs to Suffolk Burn Center

Red Knights Motorcycle Club 25 NYChapterdonated $15,000 to the Suffolk County VolunteerFirefighters Burn Center. The event was held at PindarVineyards in Peconic. The money was raised from the Red Knights 25 Bike Blessing back in May 15, 2022. The Red Knight MC 25 wants to thank the community who came out to support theirbike blessing to help make this donation. -Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone

D’Esposito Attends Memorial Golf Classic

Hempstead Town Councilman Anthony D’Esposito attended the 2022 Memorial Golf Classic Kick-Off Cocktail Reception to benefit the Francis X. Pendi Nassau County Firefighters Museum and Education Center at Total Wine in Westbury. - Fire News photo provided

FASNYYouth Day at West Babylon

The annual FASNYYouth Day was held on August 27, 2022, at the West Babylon Fire Department. JuniorFirefighters, Explorers, and RAMS from all overNew York State worked togetherand participated in live evolutions such as fire extinguisheroperations, ventilation procedures and hydrant operations. Members from West Babylon, Copiague and West Islip fire departments assisted FASNYstaff in guiding the participants through the hands-on exercises. - Fire News photos by Ron Monteleone

Dix Hills FD Presents Awards

The Dix Hills Fire Department recently hosted theirawards breakfast ceremony, which was delayed due to the pandemic. The event started with NYState Assemblyman Steve Stern presenting a proclamation congratulating the department on its 75 years of service, as well as County LegislatorTom Donnelly giving proclamations to the 2022 officers of the Dix Hills Fire Department. The Board of Fire Commissioners presented an award to Assemblyman Stern in grateful appreciation forhis support and commitment to the department and district. There were 19 awards given to multiple first responders fortheirlife saving actions in 2021. There were nine pre-hospital saves, eight lifesaving awards, an Engine Unit citation given to the crew of 2-8-8, and a Life Giving award fora baby delivery in June 2021. The day was extra special when two survivors who attended with theirfamilies, spoke about the gratitude they have forthe Dix Hills Fire Department giving them a second chance at life. - Fire News photos by Steve Silverman

Greenlawn 2022 Parade Trophy Winners

BESTBAND: 1st Place: Brentwood (marching with Kings Park); 2nd Place: Wyandanch (marching with Melville). MOSTMEMBERS IN LINE:(Under30) 1st Place: Huntington Manor. MOSTMEMBERS IN LINE:(Over30): 1st Place: East Northport; 2nd Place: Northport. BESTAPPEARINGDEPARTMENT: 1st Place: East Northport; 2nd Place: Kings Park; 3rd Place: Dix Hills. BESTJUNIOR DEPARTMENT: Dix Hills. BESTOVERALLDEPARTMENT: East Northport. Parade Judges provided by the Glen Cove. - Fire News photos by Steve Silverman

New Engine forFreeport

On June 12, 2022, the Freeport Fire Department held a dedication ceremony for theirnew Engine 214. Assigned to Patriot Hose Company 4, the new E214 is a 2021 Ferrara Inferno 1500/500 which replaces a 1996 RD Murray. At the dedication, Freeport MayorKennedy, Chief of Department Donnelly and Hose 4 Captain McLaughlin gave brief remarks congratulating the company and the new E214 was blessed by Department Chaplain Rabbi Cohen. The truck was then christened by MayorKennedy and Hose Company 4’s seniorman, Honorary Chief Richard Grempel, a 70-yearmemberof the company. Congratulations and best of luck to the Freeport Fire Department and Patriot Hose Company No. 4 with the new apparatus. - Fire News photos by Over The Edge Photography

Dix Hills Installation and Awards 2022

The Dix Hills Fire Department held its 75th anniversary installation dinneron June 4, 2022, at the Heritage Club at Bethpage. Several members were honored fortheirservice and dedication to the community and department. Chiefs forthe ensuing yearare Chief Joseph Williamson, 1st Assistant Brett Tepe, 2nd Assistant Scott DiPino and 3rd Assistant Terrance Farrell. Membership milestones were awarded to ex-Chief Steven Kamvakis 55 years; Michael Gatto, ex-Chief Thomas Magno, Norbert Meehan and Jim Brangan for45 years; Todd Cohen 35 years; Charles Feld and George Fleites 30 years; Jaime Wustenhoff 25 year; and Tony de Cresare and Steve Weisbrot 20 years. The Terry Farrell Firefighter of the Yearaward was given to ex-Chief Ronald Gatto. The Alan Cornfield Rescue Person of the Yearwas given to Lori Stiegler. The Chief Alfred Kuhne Inspirational Award was presented to ex-Chief Steven Kamvakis. Most fire calls answered were Lieutenant Michael Steed, ChristopherSteed and William Steed. Most EMS calls answered were Captain Maresa Spizzirri, Samantha Stressa and Louis Aquino. Presented with flowers was Chief Williamson’s wife Dawn. - Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber

Mineola Company 3 Celebrates 100 Years of Service

Mineola Fire Department Engine Company 3 celebrated 100 years of dedicated service to the community on August 22, 2022.

Engine 3 was formally organized on August 22, 1922, and the original firehouse built by the membership still stands. A brief ceremony and event was held on September 24, 2022.

Before Engine 3’s firehouse was built, the firemen held their meetings in local public buildings or in member’s homes and barns throughout the village. The only piece of firefighting equipment on the east side of the railroad tracks before then was a hose reel stored in a small building, about the size of a single-car garage.

Engine 3’s firehouse was erected by the founding members of the company in their spare time, and opened in 1923. On March 19, 1983, Engine 3 dedicated its new, larger and more modern quarters, next door to the old firehouse. The original structure is still serving the emergency needs of the Village of Mineola as the headquarters for the Mineola Volunteer Ambulance Corps.

Mineola Engine Company 3 is no stranger to making history in the Mineola Fire Department. Aside from a century of service, the company had set the stage for equality and inclusiveness. In March 1937, the Ladies Auxiliary of Company 3 was organized. The Engine 3 Ladies organization was so successful, that in 1956 it was expanded to include women of the entire Mineola Fire Depart-ment. In September of 1988, the first female firefighter joined the ranks of Engine 3, and she was the first in the Mineola Fire Department’s 100-year history. - Photos courtesy of Dan Martins

Mastic Juniors Train in Connecticut

The Mastic Fire Department sponsored two of its explorers, ExplorerCaptain ConnorJacobs and ExplorerLieutenant Jack McNamara, to attend the Connecticut State Fire Academy Introduction to the Fire Service. Jack was elected Platoon Leader and Incident Commanderand Connorelected Squad Leader. They participated in a week-long residential program at the Academy and the ITTFS program, which is a residential six-day summer program. Both Juniors participated in classroom education, physical training and hands-on fire training. This year’s ITTFS Class 50 was made up of about 25 cadets from various departments in Connecticut. Jack and Connorwere the only two from New York accepted into the program. Mastic Fire Department Chief of Department Rudy Sunderman and ExplorerAdvisorWalterWood joined theirCadets at theirgraduation on August 6, 2022, to recognize and celebrate with theircadets. - Fire News photo provided by the Johnny Mac Foundation - Whatever it takes!

Past and Present Chiefs of the Seaford Fire Department

- Fire News photo by Over The Edge Photography