Baldwin firefighters snuff a car fire on Forest Avenue.
See story on page 24
LIFirefighters
Answer the Call
Firefighters from Nassau and Suffolk counties respond to an out-of-control forest fire in Orange County.
See story on pages 26 & 27
4 Displaced in Lynbrook
Crews arrive to smoke coming from a fire in the basement. Two adults and two children were displaced.
See story on page 37
Junior News
Selden demos firefighting, Bethpage plays Santa, West Hempstead goes to the FSA and more.
See stories on pages 64 & 65
Crews from Hempstead, Wantagh, Roslyn, Smithtown, Mattituck, Hicksville and Westhampton Beach.
Motley Crews See story on page 74
Street Renaming in Hicksville
The street in front of the firehouse was re-named Owen Magee Plaza for the 67-year member of the department.
See story on page 85
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News You Can Use
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As you know, Fire News is in its 51st yearof publication. If you have any stories, photos and good memories from the past, please send
Bellport FD Salutes Ex-Chief Danny Harrow
Members of the Bellport Fire Department paid a surprise visit to ex-Chief Danny Harrow at Sunrise Assisted Living. It was a great night foreveryone and included dinnerand Danny’s favorite dessert Entenmann’s crumb cake.
In the early morning hours of October12, 2024, the Levittown Fire Department, along with mutual aid companies operated at a working fire on Bark Lane off BeaverLane. Firefighters put multiple handlines into operation to battle heavy fire in a two-story private dwelling. All occupants made it safely out of the home. The cause of fire was underinvestigation and all fire department units were underthe command of Levittown Chief of Department Behrens.
- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com and Paul Mazza
Levittown House Fire
Kings Park Psych Center Fire
The Kings Park Fire Department was alerted at 2200 on October5, 2024, for a fire on the roof of a building in the Kings Park Psychiatric Center. Due to the structural integrity of the building being suspect with many otherhazards inside, firefighters set up a tower ladderand flowed water from that to extinguish the fire. Crews were on scene for overan hour. Also assisting at the scene was Smithtown Public Safety with its drone, along with the NYS Parks Police and Suffolk Police. The scene was turned overto the Town of Smithtown Fire Marshal and Suffolk Police Arson squad to investigate the cause.
- Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
Heavy Damage at Hempstead Blaze
AHempstead home was heavily damage by fire on October13, 2024. The blaze broke out at the Botsford Street house around 1415 and Hempstead firefighters were met by heavy fire and smoke conditions when they arrived. Several surrounding departments also responded to assist.
- Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com amd Dylan Caamano
West Babylon Working Fire
The West Babylon Fire Department was alerted fora house fire on Hope Street about 0810 on November4, 2024. Chief Allen arrived to a fully involved single-story home. The crew from Engine 1-9-6 put the first line into operation on exposure 1. Crews from Engines 1-9-2, 1-9-8, and Heavy Rescue 1-9-15 stretched and operated two additional lines. One was sent to the exposure 3 to knock down fire from the exterior, and the third made entry through a reardoor. All searches were negative, and the two occupants home exited safely priorto the fire department arrival. The fire was brought undercontrol within an hourwith no reported injuries. Mutual aid to the scene came from Babylon, Lindenhurst, North Babylon, North Lindenhurst and Wyandanch-Wheatley Heights Ambulance forrehab; Lindenhurst stood by at West Babylon Headquarters. Chief Allen was in command of the scene.
- Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
12 Pines Park Brush Fire
On November12, 2024, the Medford Fire Department was toned out formultiple calls about a brush fire in 12 Pines Park in Medford. Medford and all mutual aid departments including, Blue Point, Yaphank, Bohemia, Hagerman and Ridge entered on the north side of the park up wind of the fire and pushed inward extinguishing all visible fire. - Fire News photos by Kevin McGill
On November7, 2024, at 1327, the Copiague Fire Department responded fora fully involved backhoe on Oak Street. Copiague first responding Engine 1-3-9 did a quick knockdown of the heavy fire.
- Fire News photos by BTFirePhoto and Paul Mazza
Copiague Backhoe Fire
Hicksville Basement Fire Extends
In the early morning hours of November11, 2024, the Hicksville Fire Department, along with mutual aid companies, operated at the scene of a fire on Bridle Lane off Blueberry Lane. Firefighters stretched three handlines and put at least two into operation fora fire that began at the basement level of a two-story private dwelling before extending to the floors above. The main body of fire was quickly extinguished before it could extend furtherinto the residence. All occupants made it out safely from the home. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation and all fire department units were underthe command of Hicksville Chief of Department DiFronzo. - Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com
The Hicksville Fire Department was called to a house fire on Winding Road about 1850 on November2, 2024. Third Assistant Chief Keyertransmitted a working fire, which was located in the attached garage of a two-story home. Assistant Chiefs Wright and Murphy arrived shortly after. Engine crews stretched two lines, with one going into operation and containing the fire to the garage. All searches were negative, and there were no reported injuries. Mutual aid came from Levittown, Carle Place, East Meadow, Westbury and Bethpage. - Fire News photos by
Hicksville Garage Fire Held
Paul Mazza
Bay Shore Structure Fire
At 1335, on November2, 2024, the Bay Shore Fire Department was activated foran automatic fire alarm on West Drive. Shortly thereafter, a 911 call was received forsmoke from the house. Mutual aid to the scene was provided by the Islip and West Islip; standby coverage came from East Islip and Islip Terrace. EMS coverage was provided by Bay Shore Brightwaters Rescue Ambulance with assistance from Brentwood Legion Ambulance and Commack VolunteerAmbulance.
- Fire News photos by Rich Stark, Paul Mazza and Evan Rolla
Hot One in DeerPark
On Nov 7, 2024, at 2316, the DeerPark Fire Department responded to West 21st between Park and Central avenues foran involved auto. First-due engine 1-4-6 bottled up and got wateron the fire, quickly knocking it down. The fire was so hot that when looking for the front license plate. It had melted into the street’s blacktop underthe front bumper. - Fire News photos by BTFirePhoto
Huntington Manor Car/House Fire
In the early morning hours of November3, 2024, the Huntington ManorFire Department was activated fora carfire against a house. On arrival, a working fire was transmitted. Firefighters from Huntington Manor, Melville and Huntington all worked to control the fire; Greenlawn stood by. All units were up in 90 minutes. All operations were underthe command of Chief of Department James Glidden.
- Fire News photo by Sburke Photography
Hauppauge CarFire
The Hauppauge Fire Department responded to a vehicle in the parking lot on Davids Drive at 1225 on October31, 2024. Unit 4-0-48 was first on scene and confirmed an active fire. Firefighters placed one handline into operation to extinguish the fire and surrounding brush fire. There were no reported injuries and the cause of the fire was unknown.
- Fire News photo by Evan Rolla
Working Commercial Fire in Mastic
At approximately 2000 on October27, 2024, the Mastic Fire Department was alerted fora reported building fire on Montauk Highway. Mastic’s towerladderarrived, established operations in front of the building, and commenced firefighting efforts. The first-due engine from Mastic arrived shortly thereafter, connected to a hydrant, and laid in the necessary lines. Crews were able to stretch hoses and effectively extinguish the fire. Following the suppression of all visible flames, overhaul began. Multiple neighboring departments provided assistance at the scene. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation by the Suffolk County Police Arson Squad and the Brookhaven Town Fire Marshal’s office. - Fire News photo by Spencer Austin
Candle Starts Small Fire
The Franklin Square Fire Department responded to the report of smoke in a house on Sprague Avenue on October24, 2024. On arrival, units found a candle had fallen to the floorin the home’s living room and a small fire was ignited. The fire was extinguished, the home was vented, and companies took up.
- Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Centereach House Fire
On October30, 2024, at approximately 0537, the Centereach Fire Department was activated fora structure fire on ArborLane in Centereach. Initial reports stated that the porch of the house was on fire. Chief 31 transmitted the working fire. Upon arrival units stretched a line and knocked down the fire. Apet bird was removed
from the home. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation by the Suffolk County Police Arson Squad and the Brookhaven Town Fire Marshal’s Office. Multiple departments were called in formutual aid. - Fire News photo by Chase Millwater
2nd FloorFire in New Hyde Park
The New Hyde Park Fire Department battled a raging secondfloorfire in a private dwelling on Stewart Avenue on October25, 2024. Heavy fire was showing out the rearof the home and engine companies quickly went to work to knock down the blaze. Mutual aid companies assisted at the scene.
- Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
DeerPark CarFire
On October29, 2024, at 1951, the DeerPark Fire Department was toned out fora fully involved carfire at the cornerof Thelma Place and Wright Avenue. Engine 1-4-6 arrived and knocked down the fire.
- Fire News photo by BTFirePhoto
Cover Story
Fire Hits 8 Main Street Shops in Sayville
At 1742, on October25, 2024, the Sayville Fire Department responded to a commercial structure fire on Main Street at the site of the old Cafe Joelle. In addition to Boris Barber Shop and PaperDoll Vintage Boutique, at least six other businesses were affected. Mutual aid, eitherto the scene or forstandby came from the following: East Islip, Islip Terrace, West Sayville, Bohemia, Bayport and Holbrook. Mutual aid from the Fifth Division included Blue Point, North Patchogue and Patchogue. EMS coverage was provided by Comunity Ambu-lance with assistance from Patchogue Ambulance.
- Fire News photos by Rich Stark FC-49, Paul Llobell, FC-35, Ken Bradbury & James Maggio
Bay Shore House Fire
Bay Shore firefighters responded to a fire in a two-story residential structure’s second floor. Mutual aid came from Islip, West Islip, East Islip and Bay Shore Brightwaters Ambulance.
- Fire News photo by Anthony Frevola
Car& Garage Go in Brentwood
On October28, 2024, at 1830, the Brentwood Fire Department responded fora carfire at the rearof a Peach Street address. The fire also involved a detached garage next door. Company 1’s Engine was first on the scene and made quick work of the blaze. IC was 2nd Assistant Chief Chris Boyle. The Islip Town Fire Marshal was requested to respond. - Fire News photo by Ken Bradbury
Brookhaven Brush Fire
The Brookhaven Fire Department responded to a brush fire on the exit ramp to southbound William Floyd Parkway from the eastbound Sunrise Highway just before noon on November5, 2024. Even a cement truck drivergot in on the show putting his “green line” into use.
- Fire News photos by www.LiHotShots.smugmug.com
Baldwin CarFire
On the morning of October23, 2024, the Baldwin Fire Department operated at the scene of a confirmed carfire on Forest Avenue at West Centennial Avenue. Firefighters put one handline into operation off Baldwin Engine 2033 and had the fire quickly extinguished. All occupants made it safely out of the vehicle and there were no reported injuries.
- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com
LI Fire Departments Deployed forWildfire in Orange County
Due to the severe drought conditions in the Northeast this year, fire departments have been stretched thin. In light of this, both Nassau and Suffolk counties sent fire crews to one affected area to help the Greenwood Lake Fire Department with the out-of-control Jennings Creek Wildfire in Orange County, NY. The 5300-acre fire burned for two weeks from November 8 to November 22, 2024, when it was declared 100-percent under control.
The fire took one life, that of Dariel Vasquez, 18, a state parks aide who was struck by a tree while fighting the fire.
Nassau County departments deployed came from City of Long Beach, Uniondale, Baldwin (x2 means sent twice), North Massapequa, East Meadow (x2), Franklin Square-Munson (x2), Elmont, Woodmere (x2), Oceanside (x2), Westbury (x2), New Hyde Park (x2), City of Glen Cove, Freeport, East Rockaway, Great Neck Alert, North Merrick, Levittown, Oyster Bay Atlantic Steamer (x2), Manhasset-Lakeville, Farmingdale, Bethpage, and Rockville Centre (x2).
Suffolk County deployed 19 departments consisting of 140 members, 4 FRES staff and 4 DFC members. They came from Eastport, Greenport, Southampton, East Hampton, Central Islip, West Islip, Manorville, North Babylon, Dix Hills, Huntington, Amagansett, Mattituck, Orient, Mastic Beach, Sound Beach, East Marion, Mastic, Shelter Island and Bridgehampton fire departments.
It was acknowledged that Long Island fire departments supplied a large amount of the mutual aid fire units to assist Orange County in their time of need, and the County Fire Coordinator for Orange County personally expressed his extreme gratitude for the help sent to battle this stubborn wildfire.
- Fire News photos submitted by Alison Aievoli, (Suffolk) Emergency Evacuation Coordinator; and Michael F. Uttaro, Chief (Nassau County) Fire Marshal
More photos next page
Thank You Nassau & Suffolk Departments
Medical Issue Leads to CarFire
On October29, 2024, at 1422, the DeerPark Fire Department was toned out fora cardiac arrest at the scene of an MVAcar-into-telephone-pole that also turned into an involved carfire on Bay Shore Road off of Commack Road. People in the area were able to pull the victim from the carand carry him farenough away from the fire. CPR was started on the victim and Suffolk Police and DeerPark Rescue arrived and continued CPR. As Engine 1-4-6 arrived and knocked down the fire. DeerPark Rescue transported the victim to the local hospital.
- Fire News photos by BTFirePhoto
Park Ave Fire in Huntington Manor
In the late night of October31, 2024, the Huntington ManorFire Department was activated fora reported building fire on Park Avenue. The dispatcherquickly advised a couple of calls were being taken. The 3rd assistant chief arrived to fire though the roof and transmitted the working fire. Members of Huntington Manorand
mutual aid companies worked forovertwo hours to control the fire. All fire operations were underthe command of Chief of Department James Glidden.
- Fire News photos by SBurkePhotography
Van Fire in Manhasset
On November8, 2024, shortly before 1800, the ManhassetLakeville Fire Department was alerted to a vehicle fire in the vicinity of Park Avenue and Port Washington Boulevard in Manhasset. While en route Deputy Chief Weisburd was advised the NCPD was on scene and reporting fully involved van. Engine 8711 arrived and placed a line into operation and was backed up by Engine 8751. Due to the close proximity to the district border, the Roslyn Fire companies also responded. - Fire News photos by Lee E. Genser - Capt., Paramedic Manhasset-Lakeville FD Ambulance Unit
East Meadow Bedroom Fire
The East Meadow Fire Department was alerted to a house fire on Cadillac Drive in East Meadow on October28, 2024, at 0940. Firefighters arrived and were confronted with a bedroom fire on the second floorof the home with an occupant still inside. An elderly female was successfully removed from the house by East Meadow firefighters. The female was transported by East Meadow ambulance to Nassau University Medical Centerforfurthertreatment. Mutual aid came from Levittown, Hicksville and North Bellmore. The Nassau County Fire Marshal and Nassau County Police were investigating the cause.
- Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber, K2M Photography.com and FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Comanche Lane Blaze
The Commack Fire Department was alerted to a house fire on Comanche Lane on October31, 2024, at 1550. The home, which was occupied, had a heavy fire condition in the rearwhen firefighters arrived. The homeownerwith his dog was able to evacuate. Mutual aid
came from Hauppauge, Smithtown, Dix Hills and East Northport. One firefighterwas transported to Southside University Hospital. The Smithtown Town Fire Marshal and Suffolk Police were investigating the cause. - Fire
News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
On November11, 2024, the Lynbrook Fire Department responded to the report of a house fire on Hodson Avenue. Auto mutual aid was requested from Rockville Centre, as well. Crews arrived to smoke showing from the home, and it was determined that the smoke was coming from a fire in the basement. Mutual aid responded from East Rockaway, Malvern, Valley Stream and others. On arrival Lynbrook Stretched lines and began the fire attack. The fire was contained to the basement. The Red Cross assisted two adults and two children who were displaced.
- Fire News photos by Dylan Caamano and FirstOnScenePhotos.com
4 Displaced by Lynbrook Basement Fire
Coram Brush Fire Snuffed
Lynbrook Kitchen Fire
On November5, 2024, the Lynbrook Fire Department responded to a report of a house fire on Leach Street priorto the fire department arrival. With the arrival of the first two engine one line was stretched and put into operation. Upon making entry it was found that it was a kitchen fire which was quickly knocked down. Within 10 minutes, the Lynbrook had the fire undercontrol and released some of the standby and mutual aid units on scene and at headquarters. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation by the Nassau County Fire Marshals.
- Fire News photo by Dylan Caamano
At approximately 1430 on November9, 2024, the Coram Fire Department was activated fora brush fire on Middle Country Road in Coram. Suffolk County Police had received multiple reports of heavy smoke in the area, prompting the response. Upon arrival, the first-due chief observed heavy smoke conditions and confirmed the presence of an active fire in a wooded area. Brush trucks from several neighboring departments, including Yaphank, Ridge, Middle Island and Selden, assisted in suppression efforts. Crews operated forapproximately three hours to bring the fire undercontrol.
- Fire News photo by Spencer Austin
Freeport
3-Garage
Fire
On November10, 2024, the Freeport Fire Department received a call fora garage fire on Lillian Avenue. When units arrived, they were met with heavy fire coming out of a detached garage; it was soon confirmed that three garages were on fire. Multiple explosions were heard from one of the garages. Mutual aid was requested. Freeport units had the fire knocked down within seven minutes. The fire was under investigation by the Nassau County Fire Marshal's Office.
- Fire News photo by Dylan Caamano
St. James House Fire
At 1342 on October19, 2024, the St. James Fire Department was dispatched fora house fire on Cambon Avenue. Unit 4-3-31 transmitted a working fire, bringing in mutual aid. Firefighters were met with heavy fire conditions in a two-story private dwelling. The fire took over30 minutes to bring undercontrol. There were no reported injuries and the cause of the fire was underinvestigation.
- Fire News photos by Evan Rolla and Joseph C. Sperber
Long Beach Fire Extends
The Long Beach Fire Department was alerted on October27, 2024, fora house fire on Boyd Street. First arriving units found heavy fire in the rearof the home and quickly stretched handlines to battle the blaze. The fire travelled up the exteriorof the large home requiring extensive overhaul. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Garage Fire in Glen Cove
The Glen Cove Fire Department responded to a building fire on Glen Cove Avenue on October26, 2024. The main body of fire appeared to be in a single-story commercial garage attached to a two-story taxpayer. Mutual aid companies were also called to the scene. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
HazMat Call
Unfounded
On September6, 2024, at 1304, the Hauppauge Fire Department was dispatched fora hazmat call to Jake’s 58 Hotel and Casino on Expressway Drive North. Smithtown Fire Rescue Communications advised responding units that two employees were reported sick and there was a chemical odoron one of the floors of the hotel. The Hauppauge Fire Department along with hazmat officials worked to evacuate the building to investigate the odor, which ended up being unfounded. Units returned to service shortly afterand the casino opened back up to the public.
- Fire News photo by Evan Rolla
The Malverne Fire Department operated at a basement fire on the cornerof Cornwell Avenue and Woods Avenue on the evening of November21, 2024. The smoky blaze was brought undercontrol within 20 minutes.
Carinto Apartment
Late in the afternoon of October17, 2024, the East Meadow Fire Department operated on the scene of an MVAcar-versus-building in an apartment complex on Emanuel Way off Merrick Avenue. There was one vehicle involved and no entrapment orserious injuries. Technical rescue teams from North Bellmore, Bellmore
and Bethpage were called to the scene to shore up the section of building that was damaged. All fire department units were under the command of East Meadow Chief of Department Walsh. - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com
Injuries in Hempstead MVA
Several people were injured in a multi-vehicle accident on Jerusalem Avenue and Clermont Avenue in Hempstead on the evening of October17, 2024. Hempstead Fire Department and village police units along with Northwell EMS were on the scene. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
MC/CarMVA in Smithtown
Suffolk Police and Smithtown Fire Department responded to an MVAinvolving two SUVs and a motorcycle at the intersection of Jericho Turnpike and Morewood Drive in Smithtown on October 11, 2024, at 1657. The accident injured several people, including the motorcyclist who was critically injured. The seriously injured victims were transported in Smithtown Fire Department Ambulances to Stony Brook University Hospital. Police closed west bound traffic at Ledgewood Drive as the scene was held foran accident investigation by police due to the seriousness of the injuries. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
Gas Leak at Woodbury Commons
The Syosset Fire Department was alerted foran interiorodorof gas at the Woodbury Common on Jericho Turnpike on September 8, 2024. Upon arrival, a heavy odorof gas was present and the stores in the vicinity was evacuated. National Grid along with Nassau County Fire Marshal HazMat units were called to the scene. Afteroperating foroveran hourthe source was located and the situation rectified. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
Franklin SquareMunson Overturn
Only minorinjuries were suffered aftera two-vehicle collision with rolloveron New Hyde Park Road and Maple Drive on October30, 2024. Franklin Square firefighters and EMS personnel were on the scene. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Truck Overturn in Hauppauge
At 1207 on November2, 2024, the Hauppauge Fire Department was dispatched to an overturned truck with reported entrapment on Veterans Highway in front of the county park. Unit 3-8-40 was first on scene and confirmed an overturned dump truck and reported negative pin but the driverhad been ejected. While EMS evaluated the driver, firefighters worked to secure a fuel spill and clean up debris. Engine 13 and Rescue 9 operated underthe command of 3-8-31. - Fire News photo by Evan
Rolla
Truck Overturn in Roslyn
On October8, 2024, at 1745, Roslyn Fire companies were alerted foran MVAoverturn with entrapment. Upon arrival at the Elm Drive incident, units found both occupants had self extricated. The victims were treated by NCPD Ambulance 2363. Theirmasonry contractortruck had struck a retaining wall then overturned. Its trailerand excavating equipment remained upright. Afluid spill was mitigated by Roslyn Units 5610, 591 and 592.
- Fire News photo by Michael Conklin
Vehicle Fire on the Sunrise Highway
In the early morning of October20, 2024, while returning from a mutual aid to the Bayport Fire Department fora working structure fire, West Sayville was activated fora vehicle fire on Sunrise Highway. Units 3-10-31 and 3-10-8 quickly responded and arrived on scene of a fully involved vehicle.
- Photo courtesy of 1st AC Patrick D’Onofrio, West Sayville FD
Fatal MC/CarMVA in Dix Hills
Afatal accident involving a motorcycle occurred on the afternoon of October11, 2024, at 1545 on East Jericho Turnpike west of WarnerRoad in Dix Hills. Suffolk Police and the Dix Hills Fire Department responded. The operatorof the motorcycle was pronounced dead at the scene by a paramedic from the Dix Hills Fire Department and the driverof the carwas transported to an area hospital by Dix Hills Fire Department ambulance. Firefighters mitigated a spill at the scene while police conducted an accident investigation.
- Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
CarHits Church in Franklin Square
The Franklin Square Fire Department responded to a vehicle versus building on October17, 2024. Adriverlost control of hercar, jumped the curb, and struck the exteriorwall of the Parish Centerat St. Catherine’s Church on HolzheimerStreet. Nassau County EMS transported the driverwith what appeared to be minorinjuries. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Fatality at Melville MVA
At approximately 0500 on November11, 2024, the Melville Fire Department was toned out foran MVAwith overturn and fire and multiple people trapped. The vehicle was so farinto the woods that, initially, first responders could not find it. Aftercontacting a callerwho reported the accident, it was located eastbound LIE just before the Pine Lawn overpass. There were three people in the vehicle, one with a minorinjury, one with a serious injury, and one fatality.
- Fire News photos by Kevin McGill
Overturn on the SSP
On November11, 2024, at approximately 0330, West Islip was activated foran MVAon the Southern State Parkway underthe Robert Moses overpass westbound. Brentwood Ambulance also responded.
- Fire News photo by Kevin McGill
Baldwin’s Coral House Fire
In the early morning hours of October16, 2024, the Baldwin Fire Department was called to an automatic alarm at the Coral House on Milburn Avenue off Merrick Road. When firefighters arrived at the venue they were met with smoke showing and, upon furtherinvestigation, found fire on the second floorin an area used forprep and storage. Aworking fire was transmitted and mutual aid requested. The fire was partially extinguished by the building’s sprinklersystem; however, firefighters still went on to stretch two handlines and put at least one of them into operation. The building was unoccupied at the time of the fire and the cause of the fire was underinvestigation. All fire department units were underthe command of Baldwin First Assistant Chief Eberhart.
- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com & Paul Mazza
The Freeport Fire Department was alerted fora house with people possibly trapped on West Seaman Avenue just before 0100 on October19, 2024. Chief of Department Gonzalez found fire on a reardeck and extending to the second floorof the home. Engine 216 dropped two lines at the house. Ladder217 and Tiller218 set up in front of the house and Engine 212 stretched two lines. Engine crews put three of the lines into operation and brought the fire undercontrol within an hour. The occupants home at the time were able to exit the house safely. Mutual aid came from Baldwin, Merrick, Roosevelt, Oceanside and Long Beach and the Island Park.
- Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
Freeport Working House Fire
East Rockaway Fire Snuffed
On the night of September15, 2024, the East Rockaway Fire Department, along with mutual aid companies, operated on a fire on Atlantic Avenue off Ocean Avenue. Firefighters stretched two handlines fora fire on the second floorand in the attic of a two-
Car/Ambulance MVAin RVC
In the early morning of November11, 2024, the Rockville Centre Fire Department received a call fora foran MVAinvolving an ambulance at Merrick Road and Oceanside Road. Upon arrival crews found a carthat had struck a Northwell Ambulance. It is unknown if there were any injuries to eitherthe person driving the carorthe ambulance driver. - Fire News photo by Dylan Caamano
story multi-dwelling. Firefighters had the fire quickly extinguished and its cause was underinvestigation. East Rockaway Chief of Department Vesce had command of the incident.
- Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com
Nesconset Fatal House Fire
On October14, 2024 The Nesconset Fire Department was dispatched to a residential structure fire on Highland Place. Chief Anderson was first on scene and transmitted a working forheavy fire in a two-story private dwelling, and advised responding units there was an occupant still inside. Firefighters entered the home, located and removed the unconscious victim. Firefighters stretched handlines and finished primary searches and knocked the fire down within 15 minutes. The victim was transported to an area hospital where he laterdied. - Fire News photo by Evan Rolla
9/11 Memorial Service at the Selden FD
Suffolk County LegislatorNick Caracappa, FirefighterJonathan Barnett, 2nd Assistant Chief Darrell Zeis, 3rd Assistant Chief Mike Giambalvo and Captain Ken Rubinetti at Selden’s 9/11 service.
Left to right: Assistant Chaplain Vinny Ammirati, exChief/CommissionerBill Xikis, past Assistant Chief Rich Carentz, ex-Chief/CommissionerRich Napolitano, ex-Chief Michael Matteo, 1st Assistant Chief Scott Nowakowski, Chaplain Pat McCarty,
- Fire News photo by Amanda Matteo
Nissequogue Holds Smithtown Memorial
The Nissequogue Fire Department hosted the annual Smithtown Fire Chief’s Council memorial service. The event is held annually, and remembers and honors Town of Smithtown fire department chiefs and ladies' auxiliary presidents who have passed overthe years. This year’s event was held September15, 2024.
- Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
Locust Valley 50 YearMan
On August 10, 2024, the Locust Valley Fire Department held their annual members picnic. During this year’s picnic, ex-Chief and CommissionerRalph Longo, Jr., was honored forhis 50 years of active service to the Locust Valley Fire Department. Aftera brief introduction by ex-Chief Converse, All five companies of the department made presentations to CommissionerLongo, Jr., who is now the eighth living 50-year memberof the Locust Valley Fire Department and remains an active memberto this day. - Fire News photo by www.OverTheEdge Photography.com
Chief Capone Helps Wounded Warriors
Anthony Capone, left, ownerof North StarCollision in Lynbrook, and Chief of the Valley Stream Fire Department presents check to help ourwounded warriors to Steve Grogan, a Vice-Chairman of Nassau County Firefighters Operation Wounded Warriorand a memberof the Lynbrook Fire Department to help ourwounded warriors. Capone sponsored Lynbrook’s carshow which was part of Lynbrook’s annual Wounded Warriorfundraiseron September 21, 2024. Lynbrook raised over$30,000 that day forNCFF-OWW. - Fire News photo courtesy NCFF-OWWphoto
Kings Park Training CenterCelebrates 50 Years
The Town of Smithtown Public Safety Department held an open house on October5, 2024, at the Mankuski Firematic Training facility on Middle Country in Smithtown on its 50th anniversary. The complex was dedicated in honorof Kings Park Fire Department
Edward Mankuski who was killed while responding to a fire call in Kings
wife, children and family attended the event along with local elected officials and fire departments from the township. - Fire News photos by
Chief
Park. Mankuski’s
Joseph C. Sperber
New EMS Memberfor South Farmingdale
South Farmingdale CommissionerFred Heffel swears in its newest member, Denise Baffutto, on October15, 2024. Denise has been going to EMTschool on herown and will be taking the state exam shortly, we are very excited to have her. - Photo by G. Forry
Congrats Lisa & Jeremy!
On August 3, 2024, Firefighters Lisa Fusaro and Jeremy Boehm, both of Huntington ManorFire Department Hose Company 1 tied the knot. - Fire News photo courtesy Lisa Fusaro
New Members forWantagh
On October15, 2024, the Wantagh Fire Department welcomed five members into the department. CommissionerMike Chirillo administered the oath of office to Firefighters Nicholas Cardone, Matthew MacKay and Brendan Kirk and Firemedics Paris Mallios and
Michael Cantwell at the Board of Fire Commissioner’s monthly meeting. These members have been assigned to fourof ourfive stations and will begin theirtraining immediately.
- Photo by Phil Schaaf; Kevin Regan, PIO
Dix Hills Open House
Scenes from the annual Dix Hills Fire Department Open House held on October20, 2024.
- Photos by Drew Silverman, Dix Hills FD, PIO
NewsYou C Can U Use
Juniors News
Live Fire Demo by Selden Juniors
Selden Juniors put on a livefire demonstration at the company’s open house.
- Fire News photos by Chase Millwater
Bethpage Juniors Play Santa
On October4, 2024, Bethpage Juniors along with the Terry Farrell Fund delivered toys to the children’s ward at Stony Brook University Hospital, Snyder’s Children’s Hospital and the South Shore Pediatric Center. The juniors, underthe direction of Frank Ceglio, distributed over500 cases of toys.
- Fire News photos submitted by Brian Farrell
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Juniors News
Nassau County - Germany Juniors Exchange Program
The Nassau County Juniors set up an exchange program with German Junior firefighters that started in August 2024. (For more photos go to FB or Instagram “Nassau Juniors” or to “ifharverlah” on Instagram.) They would like to thank the Haverlah (Germany) Fire Brigade and their surrounding departments, all of the venues in Germany that supported the program, the German Red Cross for all the food, all of the Nassau County Firematic Organizations and Depart-ments, NVFC, FASNY, all of the Chaperones, Chief Quinn for introducing the two organizations and the following participating Departments, Baldwin, Bellmore, East Rockaway, East Norwich, Elmont, Farmingdale, Garden City, Hewlett, Manhasset-Lakeville, New Hyde Park, Plainview, Valley Stream, Wantagh and Westbury. If it was not for their support and belief in the program, we would have never been able to have such a successful program. With the significant overwhelming success of this program, we are excited about our next adventure.
- Submitted by Jerry Presta
West Hempstead Juniors at NCFSA
On October30, 2024 the West Hempstead Fire Department went to the Nassau County Fire Service Academy forits last night of department operations. The West Hempstead Juniors attended as one of theirtraining nights. The instructors took the juniors into the fire building and explained everything that they were going to do and what was going to happen, then they went outside to watch. Thanks to the FSAforteaching ourjuniors and ourmembers.
- Fire News photo by Bill D’Alessandro
Sound Beach Open House
On November1, 2024, the Sound Beach Fire Department once again opened theirdoors to welcome the public to theirannual Fire Prevention Open House and Safe Halloween. They had many fun and educational activities forall ages, including a chance to use a
fire extinguisher, an arson dog demonstration, tours of the various fire department apparatus, and a powerful “Close Before You Doze” live burn event. It was a great success!
- Fire News photos by Stefanie Handshaw
Fitzgerald Feted for50 Years Service
On the afternoon of November10, 2024, the Lawrence-Cedarhurst Fire Department hosted a party forex-Chief Robert A. Fitzgerald to recognize him for50 years of service. The event was held at the Rockaway Hunting Club in Lawrence and was attended by family, friends, dignitaries and members of the Lawrence-Cedarhurst Fire Department, as well as neighboring fire departments. During the party a short program was held in which several people spoke about and made presentations to ex-Chief Fitzgerald - a former LCFD and Nassau County Fire Communications dispatcher. Congratulations to on achieving this milestone.
- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com
Van Bursts into Flames in Smithtown
Smithtown firefighters responded to a work van which burst into flames while traveling westbound on Jericho Turnpike in Smithtown just west of Plymouth Boulevard on October18, 2024. The operatorof the van, which was used forelevator repairs, was able to escape without injury. Police closed all lanes of traffic on Jericho Turnpike in the area while firefighters operated and extinguished the flames.
- Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
Birthday Time in Hauppauge
The Hauppauge Fire Department celebrated the birthdays of members who turned 70 and 80 in 2024. In the group picture with the cake, left to right: Larry Kunzig, Frank Poma, Larry Fausone, Mike Mooney, Walter Mayer, Al Cutlerand John Marek.
- Fire News photos by Lou Marcus
Women in the Fire Service
On November9, 2024, the Suffolk County Fire Academy hosted its annual Women in the Fire Service event, bringing togetherover65 firefighters fora day of professional development and hands-on training. The event began with a series of informative classroom lectures, focusing on key aspects of fire service operations and leadership. In the afternoon, attendees participated in a variety of practical training exercises, designed to enhance theirskills and fostercamaraderie among women in the fire service. This event provided invaluable learning opportunities, promoting both personal and professional growth forall participants.
- Fire News photos by Spencer Austin
Brookhaven House Fire Brookhaven House Fire
At approximately 1534 on November24, 2024, the Brookhaven Fire Department was dispatched to a reported structure fire on Auborn Avenue. Upon arrival, Chief 5-3-3 observed heavy fire conditions emanating from the attached garage of a two-story private residence. The first-due engine deployed attack lines, and began fire suppression. The second-due engine secured a hydrant, established a positive watersupply, and supported suppression operations. Brookhaven Truck (5-3-1) initiated roof operations to ventilate the structure. Multiple neighboring fire departments provided mutual aid. The cause of the fire is underinvestigation by the Brookhaven Town Fire Marshal’s Office and the Suffolk County Police Department’s Arson Squad.
- Fire News photos by Spencer Austin
NewtoTHEM
MOTLEY CREWS OF THE MONTH
Members of the Hempstead Fire Department on mutual aid fora building fire in Baldwin on October16, 2024. - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com
Members of Roslyn Rescue Engine 566 at Westbury Fire Department Headquarters during a recent mutual aid standby. - Fire News
Roslyn Highlands Fire Company members aftera job. - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com
October27, 2024, the
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- Courtesy Westhampton
On
Wantagh Fire Department stood by fortheirannual 5K run.
Fire News photo by Dylan Caamano
The crew from the Smithtown Fire Department was the RITat the scene of a house fire in Commack on October31, 2024. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
The crew of the Westhampton Beach Fire Department’s first-due engine at the October2024 Main Street fire.
Beach FD
Hicksville Engine 934 aftera Spindle Road fire. - Fire News photo by Harry Loud
photo by Michael Conklin
Mattituck Engine crew that went to Orange County (NY) to assist with the on-going wildfires. From left to right are Firefighters Joseph Grattan and Jason Hughes; Captain Judd Lincoln; FirefighterMike Oliver; and Chief of Department James Cox, Jr.
Submitted by AC Bobby Haas, Mattituck FD
At 1711 on October27, 2024, the Brentwood Fire Department was dispatched to a structure fire with an involved mobile office. Finding three tractortrailers on fire, as well as the office fire, mutual aid was called from the First Division with crews coming from Deer Park and North Babylon. Mutual aid from the Second Division came from the Commack and from the Third Division came units from Bay Shore, East Brentwood, Islip and West Islip. Brentwood Legion Ambulance provided on scene EMS.
- Fire News photos by Rich Stark, FC-49
More than a Trailer Office on Fire
About as Real as You Can Get
Volunteers of the Westhampton Beach Fire Department participated in a live fire drill at the Suffolk County Fire Academy in Yaphank on October12, 2024. The county instructors made sure the Westhampton Beach firefighters encountered lots of fire as soon as they gained entry to the building. Probationary FirefighterEd Moriarity and FirefighterLesterGutierrez are shown shortly afterthey popped the front door.
- Courtesy Westhampton Beach FD
Selden Members on Veterans Day
Members of the Selden Fire Department honoring ourveterans on Veterans Day 2024. Left to right: FirefighterLaton Hunter, Captain Ed Reynolds, Chaplain Vinny Ammirati, ex-Captain Kyle
Reimann, FirefighterTylerVan Gordon, ex Chief (and Vietnam Veteran) Joseph Matthews, and Captain (and Vietnam Veteran) Kenny Rubinetti. - Fire News photo by Vincent Ammirati
Looking Back
The Albertson Fire Department, along with numerous mutual aid companies, battled a raging, wind-driven blaze in a row of garden apartments on I.U.Willets Road on January 24, 2014. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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ANNUALSCHOLARSHIPFUNDRAISER FOR FALLEN NYPD OFFICER
Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Receiver of Taxes
Jeffrey Pravato joined with NYPD officials and representatives from St. Mary's High School to announce a college scholarship fund in memory of Detective Jonathan Diller, who was murdered in the line of duty in March, leaving behind wife Stephanie and a young child. Supervisor Saladino, alongside Stephane Diller, acknowledged Larry Weinberger, president of MGD Realty, for spearheading the scholarship initiative and contributing the first $5,000 to get it off the ground.
A2010 graduate of St. Mary's High School in Manhasset, Jonathan learned the importance of values, service, community and respect while achieving academic success. This well-rounded education was important to him and led him to a career in law enforcement. Stephanie and her family want others to have the same opportunity that Jonathan did at St. Mary's, which led to the creation of this scholarship initiative. AGoFundMe page has been set up and can be found at https://www.gofundme.com/f/police-officerjonathan-diller.
NEWLEGISLATION EXTENDS
VOLUNTEER FIRSTRESPONDER TAX CREDITS
New York State volunteer firefighters and emergency medical personnel who serve in one jurisdiction but live in another will now qualify for the same property tax credits as those serving within the jurisdiction where they reside. This change comes after the governor signed legislation sponsored by New York State Sen. Monica R. Martinez and Assemblyman Steve Stern last week.
For the benefit to take effect, individual taxing entities – such as cities, counties and school districts – must adopt the tax abatement for their residents who volunteer outside their boundaries. These decisions will be made by each respective board. Under state law, qualifying volunteers whose municipalities choose to offer the exemption can receive up to a 10-percent reduction in the assessed value of their homes for property taxes imposed by city, village, town, part-town, special district, school district, fire district or county purposes, exclusive of special assessments, provided that the governing body approves the measure.
Statewide, volunteer fire agencies and emergency medical services providers have struggled with recruitment. According to FASNY, volunteer firefighter ranks across the state have fallen by 33 percent over the past 20 years. Incentives like tax credits are considered one way to attract new members, while allowing volunteers who serve in neighboring jurisdictions to receive this benefit will promote fairness.
The expanded property tax credit is one of several initiatives led by Sen. Martinez this session to support fire and emergency medical volunteers and drive recruitment. Martinez’s bills include:
1.An increase to the volunteer firefighter and ambulance member income tax credit from $200 to $800 for individuals and from $400 to $1,600 for joint filers (S7286A).
2.The creation of a “Vets to Vollies”/Veterans to Volunteers program (S8111).
3.Ensuring the timely payment of death benefits for volunteer firefighters and volunteer ambulance workers (S4711).
DECEMBER EVENTS
12/3Southampton/Easthampton Town Chiefs CouncilsSag HarborFD @ 7pm
12/4Long Island Legislative Committee - Selden FD @ 7pm
12/5Smithtown Fire Chiefs Council MeetingCommack FD @ 7pm
12/7PEARLHARBOR DAY
12/10FIRE DISTRICTELECTIONS
12/19Fire Chiefs Council of Nassau County - General Meeting
12/20Suffolk Firefighters Emerald Society - TBD @ 7pm
12/25CHRISTMAS
12/31NEWYEARS EVE
SEE YOU in 2025
Firefighters on TV forWounded Warriors
Recently two members of the board of Nassau County Firefighters Operation Wounded Warriorappeared on the monthly Veterans News cable show which is seen throughout Long Island. Past NCFF-OWWChairman Joe O’Grady (Floral Park Fire Department), second from left, and new Chairman Terence Powderly (Bellerose Fire Department), were interviewed by moderators Ed Aulman and Sabrina Lacey. The firefighters were on the show to talk about Nassau County firefighters’efforts, as part of NCFF-OWW, to help ourwounded warriors and theirfamilies overthe past 20 years. - Story and photo by Steve Grogan
SC VolunteerFirefighter’s Association Dinner
Suffolk County Volunteer Firefighter’s Association held their annual Firefighter of the Year award night on October 19, 2024.
This year’s award went to firefighters from the Riverhead Fire Department, 1st Assistant Chief William Renten and Firefighter Frank Greenwood.
Presenting the awards were President Vincent Ammirati and a Proclamation from Suffolk County given by Assemblyman Joseph DeStefano
On January 25, 2024, the two firefighters who work for the Riverhead Town Highway Department were in the vicinity of Pulaski Road when they were alerted by a business employee that there were occupants in the building. They entered the building via the back door and went up to the second floor. Finding heavy smoke and one occupant in the stairwell, the firefighters assisted the occupant to safety. They were then notified that there was a second occupant in the upstairs apartment and the two firefighters returned to the burning building to locate the second victim and pulled her to safety.
- Fire News photos by Jim Dunn
Mastic House Fire
At approximately 1015 on October17, 2024, 911 operators received numerous calls reporting a private dwelling fire on Mastic Boulevard off Mastic Road. The main body of fire was located in the 3-4 corner. Numerous fire and EMS agencies responded on mutual aid. Three dogs were reportedly rescued from the home.
- Fire News photos by www.LiHotShots.smugmug.com
Nassau County High-Axle Vehicle Drill
On the morning of November3, 2024, the Nassau County Fire Commission hosted a high-watervehicle mobilization and radio interoperability exercise. Several agencies and fire departments took part in the drill along with the Office of the Fire Marshal and Fire Communications. Those participating in the drill responded to staging areas throughout Nassau County to simulate response to a flash flood event. From the staging areas, participants then responded to one centralized meeting point – the Nassau Coliseum. At the coliseum those in attendance were able to familiarize themselves with the equipment and capabilities of other departments and agencies.
- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com
Street Renamed for67-YearMember
On the morning of October13, 2024, members of the Hicksville Fire Department assembled in front of Station 4 on Levittown Parkway to honorone of theirown, ex-Chief Owen Magee. The street in front of the firehouse was renamed, “Owen Magee Plaza.” Owen is a 67-yearmember of the department, having held every rank within the organization. Dignitaries, officers and members from the department, along with friends and family came out to pay tribute to an incredible individual who is still an extremely active memberwithin the department and community. Congratulations Owen on this well-deserved honor.
- Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
Selden Fire Prevention Visit
AFire Prevention school visit by the Selden Fire Department with all the fifth graders at Stagecoach Elementary School on October2, 2024. - Fire
News photo by Vincent Ammirati
Westhampton Beach’s Halloween Truck
The Westhampton Beach Fire Department's Eloise Carterwelcomes youngsters to the department's Halloween truck on October19, 2024, at the Trunk orTreat event sponsored by the Westhampton Free Library and held at the Westhampton Elementary School.
- Courtesy Westhampton Beach FD
CFSI Symposium and Dinner
The 35th Annual National Fire and Emergency Services Symposium and Dinner is expected to draw over 1,500 fire and emergency services leaders from across the country. Participants will attend seminars, conduct meetings with their members of Congress and network with their colleagues.
The Symposium and Dinner will be held on February 12 and 13, 2025 at the Marriott Marquis in Washington, DC.
At the conclusion of the two-day event, you will join together in the Washington Hilton ballroom to hear national political leaders paying tribute to the dedication and commitment of our nation's firefighters and emergency services personnel.
Individual tickets are $475 and include a seat at the dinner as well as access to all seminars. If you order before 12/1/24, the Early Bird Sale ticket price is $425. If purchasing 10 or more tickets, please see the table level options on our website. Order tickets at https://cfsi .org/annual-symposiumand-dinner/tickets/.
Eric Valliere Confirmed as FDSOAChairfor a New 3-YearTerm
Eric Valliere, the current Chair of the Fire Department Safety Officers Association (FDSOA), has been reappointed to a new three-year term beginning in January 2025. Valliere expressed his enthusiasm for maintaining his leadership role and looks forward to advancing FDSOAinitiatives with the support of the dedicated Board of Directors team and new management team. His reappointment reflects FDSOA’s confidence in his vision and commitment to strengthening safety standards within the fire service industry.
Join us at the 2025 FDSOAHealth Safety & Apparatus Conference this January 2025 in St Pete Beach FL(Go to FDSOA.org for more information)
Farmingdale Columbus Day Parade
The Farmingdale Fire Department hosted theirannual Columbus of bands participated in the parade. Numerous neighboring fire departments; an engine from the Tarrytown (NY) Fire Department also participated. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
New Hyde Park Halloween
The New Hyde Park Fire Department Annual New Hyde Park Village Halloween Parade. - Fire News photos by
