Fire News Long Island, March 2023

In this issue...

Hempstead Apartment Fire

Hempstead firefighters handle a seventh-floor fire.

See story on page 32

Wyandanch House Fire.

Quick work confines fire to attached garage

See story on page 34

Church Fire in Bethpage

Firefighters respond to smoke coming from the rear of St. Isidoros’Greek Orthodox Church.

See story on page 35

EMSAcross the Island

Starts off with a fatal plunge into the water in Bay Shore.

AService for Long Island Firefighters and EMS Heroes

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Motley Crews From All Around

See story on page 38 CI, Terryville, Setauket, Westbury, West Hempstead and more.

See story on page 70

Obituaries

Eastport’s Richard W. Allen

Fire News Contributor John ‘Jack’Healy

See stories on pages 77 & 79

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From the Editor’s Desk

Dennis Whittam, Editor

WinterChallenges

I recently checked with my local groundhogs and found that all the seasoned groundhogs had differing opinions on when winter will end. Punxsutawney Phil is predicting six more weeks of cold weather, while Chuckles and General Beauregard Lee are saying we will have an early spring. Since I am an optimist, I’m betting on an early spring! But, regardless of what our groundhogs think, I am staying prepared for a few more weeks of cold weather.

I grew up in the fire service. I remember my dad hated fighting fires in the cold. He always prepared his rack for winter, which included an extra wool sweater, a wool skull hat and a nylon vest. In 1960, I was a full-fledged buff. In those days I ran to fires and immediately found the Salvation Army truck, which was always present. My adopted job was to retrieve a cardboard box filled with coffee and doughnuts and distribute them to the MPOs, so that the members of the companies had a warm beverage waiting for them when they exited the fire building. I know the members appreciated my gesture offering them coffee and doughnuts provided by the Salvation Army. Truthfully, I miss the dedication of the Salvation Army. With the advancement of technology, we now have Recuperation and Care Units (RAC Units). These units respond to all-hands calls and provide members with cool

drinks and cool towels during hot weather and warm drinks during cold weather.

Several times I was asked to run to my father’s company and load up a bag of dry clothing and bring it back to the fire. It didn’t look like fun when I saw firefighters exiting a warm building in wet clothing and standing in freezing temperatures. This changed in the late 60s.

In extreme temperatures, firefighters need protection from both heat and cold at the same incident. While stretching lines and opening up a building, firefighters are exposed to the cold temperatures and, within minutes, they are exposed to extreme heat. Firefighters who are dressed for the cold are likely to become fatigued. It is common for firefighters to be sweating on the inside and covered with ice on the outside. Officers should remind members to stay warm without compromising protection.

Plan and prepare for fighting fires in the winter months. Agood pump operator has a built-in instinct that warns of the dangers of allowing their truck to freeze up. Some departments in cold climates operate with dry pumps. As they arrive on scene they allow water to enter the pump so that it can be out into operation. I recommend that new pump operators speak with a senior pump operator to review cold weather operation. You should also check with the pump

manufacturer to see if they have guidelines for operating in cold weather.

Check with Firehouse magazine. Jim Vaughn wrote a great article called, “Preparedness and Training for Cold-Weather Firefighting.” Check out their December 2020 edition.

Let’s hope Punxsutawney Phil is wrong and that springtime is less than six weeks away. In the meantime, stay warm! - Dennis

3 FFs Hurt in 11-HourFight in Roslyn

On February 4, 2023, the Roslyn fire companies, assisted by many mutual aid companies, battled a fire in a three-story office building in FlowerHill on Northern Boulevard. Numerous master streams were put to work after offensive operations switched to defensive. Three fire fighters were hurt in the incident which lasted 11 hours. Frigid temperatures also negatively impacted operations.

- Fire News photos by Mike Conklin, Mark Giller, Fred Sager and Paul Mazza

Baldwin Rubbish Fire Extends to House

On the night of January 10, 2023, the Baldwin Fire Department was called to a home on Twain Street off St. Luke’s Place fora report of a fire in the rearyard. When firefighters arrived, they were met with a large rubbish fire at the rearof a 1-1/2 story private dwelling with fire beginning to impinge upon the structure. While members stretched the first of two handlines, othercrews worked to force entry into the vacant residence to check forextension. Fortunately, the fire was quickly knocked down and contained to the outside of the home. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation. All fire department units were underthe command of Baldwin Chief of Department Dworsak.

- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com

Garage, Shed Fires and High Winds Make fora Tough Fight

The Wyandanch Fire Company was alerted fora shed fire on Russell Street about 0715 on January 15, 2023. Chief of Department Brown was advised by Babylon Central Fire Alarm that Suffolk County Police were on scene confirming a fire and requesting a rush from the fire department. Chief Brown arrived and upgraded the alarm to a working fire with a large garage and a vehicle inside and multiple sheds fully involved. High winds were pushing the fire into the house where it extended to both floors and the attic. Crews stretched three lines and it took overan hourto bring the fire undercontrol. The ladderpipe on 1-10-4 was used during overhaul to hit spots in the attic and the now collapsed outside structures. All searches were negative and there were no reported injuries. Two houses were also damaged by radiant heat, and six people were displaced by the fire. Mutual aid came from North Babylon, DeerPark and West Babylon. WyandanchWheatley Heights Ambulance Corps was also on scene. The cause of the fire was under investigation.

- Fire News photos by Paul Mazza

1 Saved at Stony Brook Fire

On January 29, 2023, at 0036, the Stony Brook Fire Department was alerted fora structure fire on Strathmore Gate Drive in Stony Brook with one person trapped. Arriving units were met with visible smoke and flames. Suffolk Police made the grab of the trapped person. The fire was quickly knocked down. and the cause of the fire was underinvestigation by the Brookhaven Town Fire Marshal's Office.

- Fire News photos by Chase Millwater

West Hempstead House Fire

On January 6, 2023, the West Hempstead Fire Department was dispatched to a reported house fire on Berry Hill Court. Second Assistant Chief Brohm was quickly on scene and transmitted a Signal 10 with active fire on the first floor of a two-story house. Engine 763 stretched the initial line to begin extinguishing the fire. Aftersearches by crews, the fire was found to have extended to the second floor. Nonetheless, all fire was knocked down. With the assistance of crews from Lakeview, Franklin Square and Munson, Elmont, Hempstead, Uniondale and South Hempstead, the fire was placed undercontrol in approximately 40 minutes. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation.

- Fire News photos by Over the Edge Photography, K2MPhotography.com and FirstOnScenePhotos.com

Elmont Starts the YearOff

On January 1, 2023, just before 1515, the Elmont Fire Department was dispatched to a reported house fire on FosterAvenue. Chief of Department Santina quickly arrived to find active fire on the first and second floors of a two-story home. Engine 703 stretched the initial line to begin extinguishing the fire. With the assistance of crews from Valley Stream, Malverne, Lakeview, South Floral Park and L awrenceCedarhurst, at least fourlines were stretched and placed into operation . The fire was placed undercontrol in approximately one hourwith the cause of the fire underinvestigation. - Fire News photos by Over the Edge Photography

Dog Saved in Glen Cove

On December26, 2022, the City of Glen Cove Fire Department was dispatched to a house fire on Nancy Court. Second Assistant Chief Valeo arrived to smoke showing and an active fire in the singlestory structure. Three lines were stretched to extinguish the fire with assistance of crews from Sea Cliff, Glenwood, Locust Valley

and OysterBay. The fire was placed undercontrol in approximately 45 minutes with the cause of the fire underinvestigation. Adog was removed from the house by firefighters. All operations were underthe direction of 1st Assistant Chief Grella.

- Fire News photo by Over the Edge Photography

Another YearStarts in Syosset

On January 1, 2023, at approximately 0850, the Syosset Fire Department was dispatched to a house fire on Bristol Drive. Third Assistant Chief Sauberman arrived to an active fire in the basement of the house. Engine 585 stretched the initial line into the basement to extinguish the fire. Two lines were stretched with overhaul conducted by crews including those from Plainview, Jericho, Bethpage and Hicksville. All operations were underthe direction of Chief of Department Silver. This was the first working fire in Nassau County in 2023.

- Fire News photos by Over the Edge Photography, FirstOnScenePhotos.com, K2MPhotography.com and Paul Mazza

Commercial Auto-Alarm in Lynbrook

On December29, 2022, the Lynbrook Fire Department was dispatched to a commercial automatic alarm on Merrick Road. Third Assistant Chief Murphy was quickly on the road and advised by Firecom a passerby was reporting smoke from the building. Upon arrival, smoke was confirmed from the building with an odorof burning as was an active fire inside the garage area of the warehouse. Engine 421 stretched the initial line into the building and at least two lines were stretched to extinguish the fire, which was isolated to the engine compartment of a truck in the building. Crews, including mutual aid from East Rockaway, Rockville Centre, Malverne, Valley Stream and Elmont, worked forapproximately 45 minutes to extinguish the fire and ventilate the building before the scene was placed undercontrol. All operations were underthe direction of Chief of Department Kelly.

- Fire News photos by Over the Edge Photography, K2MPhotography.com and Paul Mazza

Quick Work in Hempstead

In the early morning of January 11, 2023, the Hempstead Fire Department operated at the scene of a working fire at the Nissan of Garden City business on North Franklin Avenue off Main Street. Firefighters put one handline into operation fora fire on the second floorof a two-story service building. The fire was quickly knocked down before it could extend furtherand its cause was underinvestigation. All fire department units were underthe command of Hempstead Chief of Department Sandas. - Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com

CarFire in Hempstead

In the early morning hours of December 30, 2022, the Hempstead Fire Department operated on the scene of a carfire at the intersection of South Franklin Street and Clinton C. Boone Street. One handline was stretched and operated off Hempstead Engine 2. All occupants made it safely out of the vehicle and the cause of the fire was under investigation. All fire department units were underthe command of Hempstead Chief of Department Sandas.

- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com

Merrick CarFire on Sunrise

On the night of December28, 2022, the Merrick Fire Department operated on the scene of a carfire in the westbound lanes of Sunrise Highway just east of Babylon Turnpike. Merrick Engine 644 was the first engine to arrive on scene and put one handline into operation. The fire was quickly knocked down, all occupants made it safely out of the vehicle. All fire department units were underthe command of Merrick Chief of Department Gies.

- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com

Setauket Structure Fire

On January 28, 2023, the Setauket Fire Department was activated fora structure fire on Fieldhouse Avenue in Setauket. Upon arrival, there were reports of someone trapped, but the person was then accounted for. There was also visible fire pushing out from the rearof the house. Many departments were called for mutual aid. There were no reported injuries. The fire was under investigation by Suffolk Police Arson Squad and the Brookhaven Town Fire Marshal’s Office.

- Fire News photos by Chase Millwater

Freeport House Fire

On January 18, 2023, the Freeport Fire Department was dispatched fora house fire on Dock Drive. Second Assistant Chief Gonzalez with Engine 213 was met with fire on the first floorof the house extending to the second floor. The crew of 213 stretched the initial line and at least three lines were stretched with the assistance of crews from Merrick and Baldwin. The fire was placed undercontrol in approximately 30 minutes. All operations were underthe direction of Chief of Department Donnelly.

- Fire News photos by Over the Edge Photography

Bids Adios to 2022

On December31, 2022, the Bethpage Fire Department was dispatched fora house fire on Windhorst Avenue. First Assistant Chief DeBobes, Jr., arrived to smoke showing from the house and afterinitial searches, fire was found in the walls behind the chimney. Engine 9044 stretched the initial line into the house to begin extinguishing the fire. With the assistance of a FASTfrom Farmingdale and an engine from Levittown, two lines were stretched and the fire was contained to the wall. All operations were underthe direction of Chief of Department Castles. The cause of the fire was under investigation. This was the final fire in Nassau County for 2022.

- Fire News photos by Over the Edge Photography and K2MPhotography.com

Hempstead House Fire

- Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

The Hempstead Fire Department received multiple calls fora fire on the second floorof attached private dwellings on Clinton Street on January 11, 2023. Units arrived to flames out the windows and a

heavy smoke condition. Lines were stretched and the blaze was quickly knocked down.

Rescue at Hempstead Christmas Day Fire

On Christmas afternoon the Hempstead Fire Department was dispatched to an odorof smoke call on Sealey Avenue in a six-story, non-fireproof, multi-dwelling on Atlantic Avenue. When firefighters arrived, they were met with fire showing from the windows of a second-floorapartment. Aworking fire was transmitted and mutual aid requested. As lines were being put into place, a memberof Hempstead Ladder2 located an unconscious victim on the fire floor. That victim was brought to a window on the numberone side of the building and lowered down to where they were turned overto awaiting EMS and transported in critical condition. Firefighters were able to keep the fire from extending furtherthan what they were met with. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation. All fire department units were underthe command of Hempstead Chief of Department Sandas 80.

- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com

Rocky Point Handles Shoreham Car Fire

On January 31, 2023 at 1759, the Rocky Point Fire Department was activated fora carfire at St. Marks Church. Rocky Point’s Chief Sean McCarrick was first on scene and transmitted a working carfire close to the building. Arriving units quickly extinguished the fire with no damage to the church. - Fire News photos by Terry McCarrick

Farmingville Fights Fire, Cold and Wind

On February 4, 2023, the Farmingville Fire Department was activated fora structure fire on Adirondack Drive. Arriving units were met with a fully involved home with reported entrapment, which turned out negative. Units operated underextreme winds and temperatures, with ice on the ground from waterand a wind-fueled blaze. The fire was brought undercontrol in about an hour. Multiple surrounding departments were called in formutual aid. There were no reported injuries. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation by the Brookhaven Town Fire Marshal's Office.

- Fire News photo by Chase Millwater

New Hyde Park Basement Fire

New Hyde Park firefighters extinguished a basement fire in a private dwelling on Hillside Boulevard on January 27, 2023.

- Fire News photo by FirstOnscenePhotos.com

Mineola Commercial Fire Snuffed

The Mineola Fire Department operated at a working fire in a commercial building on East 2nd Street on December23, 2023. The fire was located in the rear of a sheet metal shop and was quickly extinguished.

- Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com and Over the Edge Photography

CarFire AfterMVA on the WSP

At approximately 1830 on December18, 2022, the Wantagh Fire Department responded to a report of a carfire on the Wantagh Parkway north of the Jones Beach Tower. The Safety Officerwas first to arrive and found a vehicle fully engulfed in fire, secondary to an auto collision. Fortunately, the occupant was out of the vehicle. Engine 5 arrived moments later, followed by Engine 3. Acrew from Engine 5 stretched a hoseline and extinguished the blaze. Operations were underthe command of Captain Phil Schaaf.

- Fire News photo and story by Kevin Regan, PIO

DeerPark CarFire

On December8, 2022, at 1040, the DeerPark Fire Department responded to a vehicle fire at the TangerOutlets on Commack Road and Grand Boulevard. On arrival, Chief Robert Macaluso found a fully involved pickup parked alongside a car. First-due Engine 1-4-6 arrived and got wateron the fire, knocking it down quickly and preventing furtherdamage to the car.

- Fire News photos by BTFirePhoto

Fire in the Walls in Roosevelt

On the night of December23, 2022, the Roosevelt Fire Department, along with mutual aid companies, operated at a fire on Brookside Avenue off Catlin Avenue. Firefighters put at least one handline into operation fora fire in the walls of a two-story private dwelling. The main body of fire, which was located on the exposure three side, was

quickly knocked down. All occupants made it safely out of the residence and the cause of the fire was underinvestigation. Roosevelt Assistant Chief Dawkins had command of the incident.

- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com

First Fire Island-Wide for2023

The East Brentwood Fire Department was alerted fora house fire on Fulton Street about 0010 on January 1, 2023. Chief of Department Vasquez and First Assistant Chief Figueroa were on scene almost immediately as the fire was located just down the street from East Brentwood headquarters. Chief Vasquez transmitted a working fire forfire in the rearof a singlestory home. Quint 3-3-3 stretched the initial line into the house. Brentwood Ladder3-2-8 began venting and searches. The fire was brought undercontrol within an hourwith one occupant suffering burns. The person had reentered the home priorto the fire departments’arrival and was burned trying to retrieve a pet. That person was taken by ambulance to a local hospital fortreatment. Additional mutual aid came from Islip Terrace and East Islip. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation. This was the first fire island-wide for2023.

- Fire News photos by Paul Mazza

Hempstead Apartment House Fire

On December22, 2022, the Hempstead Fire Department along with mutual aid companies operated on the scene of a working fire on West Columbia Street in a seven-story, fireproof, multipledwelling located between Washington Avenue and Morrell Street. Firefighters used the building’s standpipe system and put one handline into operation fora fire in a top floorapartment. The fire was quickly knocked down and contained to that unit. One civilian was treated forsmoke inhalation and the cause of the fire was under investigation. All fire department units were underthe command of Hempstead Chief of Department Sandas.

- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com

Wyandanch House Fire

The Wyandanch Fire Company was alerted fora house fire on Garden City Avenue about 1835 on December30, 2022. Aworking fire was transmitted as there was fire showing from the exposure 3 side of a converted garage. Second and 3rd Assistant Chiefs Charles and J. Vaccaro arrived shortly afterwith Chief Charles taking command. Rescue Engine 1-10-7 picked up a hydrant to supply 1-10-4. Engines 1-10-1, 1-10-3, and Ladder1-10-5 operated two lines and had the fire knocked down quickly and contained to the garage area. The fire was undercontrol within an hour. All searches of the home were negative and there were no reported injuries. Mutual aid to the scene was provided by North Babylon and DeerPark. Wyandanch-Wheatley Heights Ambulance Corps was also on scene. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza

Church Fire in Bethpage

ABethpage place of worship suffered heavy damage aftera fire broke out January 24, 2023. Calls came in just before 1400 forsmoke coming from St. Isidoros Greek Orthodox Church on Stewart Avenue. Bethpage firefighters quickly arrived on the scene as church officials and parishioners could be seen collecting some of the church’s holy books and religious objects that firefighters were removing. Nassau County Fire Marshals were called to the scene to investigate.

- Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

East Northport House Fire

The East Northport Fire Department responded during extremely cold weatherconditions to a house fire on Elm Drive on February 3, 2023, at 2050. Upon arrival, firefighters found heavy fire condition in front of a singlestory ranch. The occupants were able to evacuate but one suffered burns and was transported to the hospital by East Northport Ambulance. Ahouse next doorsuffered exteriordamage to the siding and a carin the driveway due to radiant heat. Mutual aid companies came from Northport and Kings Park, along with Commack Ambulance. The blaze was brought undercontrol in 30 minutes with salvage and overhaul taking an additional hour. Suffolk Police and the Town of Huntington Fire Marshals were on scene investigating the cause.

- Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber

2 Rescued from Riverhead Apartment Blaze

Recently, the Riverhead Fire Department responded to the scene of a fast-moving fire on the second floorof a building on Pulaski Street. Town highway crews working nearby saw flames licking at the windows on the second floorand reported the fire. Firefighters arrived to a fully involved structure. First Assistant Chief J.R. Renten and FirefighterFrank Greenwood were able to rescue two second-floorresidents from the burning apartment. The fire, which took off quickly, consumed the second-floorapartment within a matterof minutes, Chief Hartmann said. Firefighters knocked down the blaze enough forfirefighters to gain entry to the second floor.. They searched forany otheroccupants. Hartmann said about 45 firefighters responded to the scene, with three engines and two laddertrucks. Ridge responded on mutual aid and Riverhead VolunteerAmbulance Corps also responded.

- Fire News photos by Nicholas Luparella

EMS ACROSS THE ISLAND

Fatal Plunge at Bay Shore Marina

On January 19, 2023, at 1822, the Bay Shore Fire Department was activated fora reported carin the waterat the Bay Shore Marina. Chief Roy Ecklund, Jr., was first on scene and observed Suffolk Police rescuing a 76-year-old man from the vehicle. The victim was unconscious and not breathing and CPR was administered. The Bay Shore Dive Team was sent in the wateras it was unknown if there were any othervictims. Crews were hampered by the severe drop-off in the waterand it was deemed there were no othervictims. The elderly man was transported to South Shore University Hospital by Bay Shore Brightwaters Ambulance and latersuccumbed to his injuries. Mutual aid was provided by Islip, West Islip and Islip Exchange Ambulance.

- Fire News photos by Ken Bradbury

3 Hurt in Levittown MVA

Three drivers sustained minor injuries in a three-carMVAin which one caroverturned on Wantagh Avenue and Miller Place in Levittown. The accident occurred January 29, 2023, at around 0945. The alarm occurred at a district borderline and brought units of both Levittown and Wantagh. Levittown units arrived first and assumed command, stabilizing the cars and securing three RMAs.

- Fire News photo by Harry Loud

Pedestrian Killed in Farmingdale MVA

- Fire News photo by Paul Mazza

The Farmingdale Fire Department and Nassau County Police responded fora pedestrian struck at Main Street and Fulton Street about 2010 on January 21, 2023. An unidentified female pedestrian was struck by an SUVthat stayed at the scene. Chief of Department M. Tortoso responded along with Squad 924 and Ambulances 929 and 9299. The pedestrian was taken to St. Joseph Hospital by Ambulance 929 and was pronounced dead. The driver of the Highlanderwas evaluated by the crew of Ambulance 9299 and was not injured. The cause of the accident was underinvestigation.

Pedestrian Killed in West Babylon MVA

The West Babylon Fire Department and Suffolk County Police responded fora pedestrian struck at Great East Neck Road and Evergreen Street about 1840 on January 21, 2023. An unidentified female pedestrian was struck by a compact cartraveling northbound on Great East Neck Road. First Assistant Chief Kamalic, Third Assistant Chief Manzi, Engine 1-9-3, Heavy Rescue 1-9-15, Ambulance 1-9-23 and First Responder1-9-80 responded. The pedestrian was taken to Good Samaritan University Hospital in traumatic arrest and was pronounced dead a time later. The driverof the carwas not injured and the cause of the accident was underinvestigation.

- Fire News photo by Paul Mazza

Serious MVAon the SSPin North Babylon

The North Babylon Fire Company was alerted foran MVAwith reported entrapment on the eastbound Southern State Parkway ramp to southbound Route 231 about 1445 on January 13, 2023. The driverof a midsize vehicle lost control, went off the road and struck a tree head-on, heavily pinning the driver. First Assistant Chief Alt and Third Assistant Chief DeAngelis responded along with multiple apparatus. The crews from 1-82, 1-8-6 and 1-8-15 put theirtools into operation to extricate the driverin about 10 minutes. The driverwas taken to Good Samaritan University Hospital with serious injuries. The New York State Police were investigating the cause of the accident.

- Fire News photos by Paul Mazza

Ambulette Into Building

On January 12, 2023, at approximately 1325, the Hicksville Fire Department was dispatched to a reported van versus building in the Delco Plaza shopping centeron Old Country Road. First arriving units found an ambulette completely into the building. Upon furtherassessment, the driverof the ambulette was trapped in the vehicle with the vehicle wedged against a wall. The driverwas e ventually assisted out of the vehicle by NCPD ESU through a passenger

side door. Due to the damage and initial entrapment, Bethpage TRT was requested to the scene. Afterdetermining the structure was safe, crews remained on scene while NCPD ESU removed the vehicle from the building. The driverwas transported to a local hospital forevaluation. All operations were underthe direction of Chief of Department Moskos.

- Fire News photo by Over the Edge Photography

2 Transported From Roslyn 3-Car

On January 1, 2023, the Roslyn Rescue and Roslyn Highlands fire companies were dispatched to an MVAwith reported pin at the intersection of Glen Cove Road and Old Westbury Road. Units found a three-carMVA with all occupants out. They were evaluated by EMS and two were transported to local hospitals by Northwell EMS.

Mineola Overturn

Only minorinjuries were suffered aftera singlevehicle accident with overturn on the cornerof Herricks Road and Florence Road late on January 17, 2022. The vehicle severed a utility pole at the base with multiple electric and cable lines affected. Mineola firefighters and county police secured the area while awaiting the arrival of the powercompany.

- Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

- Fire News photo by Over the Edge Photography

West Babylon 3-Car

West Babylon responded to a three-car MVArecently. West Babylon called for additional ambulances from East Farmingdale and North Lindenhurst. The rescue units transported the injured to Good Samaritan Hospital.

2 RMAat Levittown MVA

An MVAat the intersection of Old Jerusalem Road and Wantagh Avenue in Levittown caused minor injuries to the drivers of two cars on January 28, 2023. The accident brought units of the Wantagh Fire Department along with the WantaghLevittown Ambulance Corp to the scene. Both women drivers were examined and were RMA.

- Fire News photo by John Welter

-Fire News photo by Harry Loud

West Hempstead MVA

West Hempstead firefighters and EMS personnel were on the scene of a carinto a utility pole MVAon Woodfield Road nearColony Street on December29, 2022. No serious injuries were reported forthe incident.

-Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

Coram MVA

On January 28, 2023, the Coram Fire Department was activated foran MVAwith a reported overturn. Arriving units were met with one vehicle overturned and no trapped patients. The accident scene was cleaned up and the alarm was placed undercontrol.

- Fire News photo by Chase Millwater

Christmas Night MVA Kills 1, Injures 8

One person was killed and at least eight others injured in a multivehicle crash on Christmas evening December25, 2023. The accident scene was at Henry Street and Greenwich Street and involved fourvehicles. Hempstead firefighters assisted village police at the scene. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

Extrication at Plainview MVA

The Plainview Fire Department and Nassau County Police responded to an MVAwith overturn on Main Parkway at Diamond Drive in Plainview on February 1, 2023, at 1835. Acarapparently lost control and overturned on its side trapping the driver. Firefighters stabilized the carand extricated the victim through the rear. The victim was transported by Plainview Ambulance forfurthertreatment.

Big Turnout at Lithium Ion Seminar

- Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber

The Fire Chiefs Council of Nassau County hosted a lithium ion and hybrid emergency response seminaron the night of January 31, 2023, at Uniondale’s Van Ness firehouse. Mineola ex-Chief and Nassau County Fire Service Academy 2nd Deputy Chief Instructor

Scott Holliday made the presentation before a crowd of nearly 300 firefighters with nearly each of Nassau County’s 71 Departments represented. - Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com

Smithtown Township Fire Chiefs Council Annual Awards and Dinner2023

On February 3, 2023, the Smithtown Township Fire Chiefs Council held their annual award ceremony and dinner at the Watermill Caterers in Smithtown. The evening was hosted by exChief Greg Anderson of the Nesconset Fire Department, as the master of ceremonies.

The awards were presented as follows:

COMMACK FD

April 22, 2022 / Working Structure Fire UNITCITATION & LIFE SAVING AWARD

Christopher Ciaccio, 2nd Assistant Chief - Gold Medal recipient

Carl Olsen, Firefighter

Jerome Quigley, Firefighter

Andrew Spiler, Firefighter

Steven Copgna, SCPD Police Officer

Shane wild, SCPD Police Officer

KINGS PARK FD

May 5, 2022 / Cardiac Arrest

LIFE SAVING AWARD

Richard Tvalia , Paramedic

Emerson Sanchez, Supervisor

Max Cohen, Paramedic

Ann Murray, EMT

Eric Schmidt, Captain/EMT

Jack Scheibly, EMT

Christina Gleason, Firefighter

EMS UNITCITATION

Joseph Revere, Past captain

William Muscara, Lieutenant Tom Moller, EMT

Dillion Belson, Firefighter

STJAMES FD

July 3, 2022 / Cardiac Arrest

LIFE SAVING AWARD

Daniel Keegan, 3rd Assistant Chief/Paramedic

William Theobalt, Past Chief

Kate Keegan, EMT David Werner, EMT

ST. JAMES FD

August 15, 2022 / Cardiac Arrest

LIFE SAVING AWARD

John Young, Paramedic

EMS UNITCITATION

Rachel Caravella, EMT

Buket Celikoyar, EMT Jason Stempel, EMT

STJAMES FD

August 17, 2022 / Cardiac Arrest

LIFE SAVING AWARD

Marilyn Davis, Past Chief/Paramedic

Greg Companion, Paramedic

Tara Valente, EMT

Roger Corvasce, Firefighter

Conor Ryan, Firefighter

NESCONSETFD

January 25, 2022 / Cardiac Arrest

LIFE SAVING AWARD

George Gernhart, Paramedic Matthew Driscoll, EMT

SMITHTOWN FD

April 5, 2022 / MVAwith wires down

LIFE SAVING AWARD

Patrick Diecidue, Chief

Matthew Finkelstein, EMT Michael Gedz, Firefighter

The Stephen A. Feron award for leadership & training, was presented to Patrick Diecidue, Chief of Smithtown Fire Department.

The Stephen A. Ferron award for leadership and training is presented annually in Chief Ferrons memory to a member of the Smithtown Township Fire Chiefs Council. The recipient of this award will have distinguished himself as an inspiration to the councils’firefighters by demonstrating initiative, creativity and spirit of cooperation and collaboration in furthering training and professionalism to the benefit of the fire departments of the Township of Smithtown.

THE STEPHEN A. FERRON AWARD FOR LEADERSHIP AND TRAINING

- Fire News photos by Bryan Lopez & Chase Millwater

CI Holds Reorganizational Meeting

The Central Islip Fire District held theirreorganizational meeting on January 2, 2023. Pictured from left to right: District Secretary Diane Wesnofske; District TreasurerMarvin Bonilla; Board Chairman Charles R. Doyle; CommissionerJoseph P. Correira; newly installed CommissionerRichard Johnson, Jr.; CommissionerRobert D. Sutton; CommissionerRobert A. Miller; District ManagerEdward M. Freudenberg; and Suffolk County Judge Philip Goglas.

Fire Chiefs Serve Wounded Warriors

Fire Chiefs from the Lynbrook, East Rockaway and Malverne fire departments, along with Island Park ex-Chief and Congressmanelect Anthony D’Esposito (blue vest) serve a Christmas lunch at Fort Belvoirin Virginia on September9, 2022, to the wounded warriors in the SoldierRecovery Unit. The firefighters, part of Nassau County Firefighters Operation Wounded Warrior, hosted a Christmas party and brought presents to the wounded and toys forall of the soldier’s children. OtherNassau firefighters were also at Bethesda, Fort Bragg and Camp Lejuene. NCFF-OWWhas brought Christmas to ourwounded warriors at those hospitals and rehabilitation units annually for18 years.

- Fire News photo by Charles A. Murphy

- Fire News photo by Steve Grogan

Montauk Christmas Celebration Back

The Montauk Fire Department’s annual DinnerforSeniors was back in full force on December4, 2022, aftera pause during the pandemic. Equipment bays were cleared out to make room forfestive dinnertables. MFD volunteers handed out to-go bags outside the fire house, and delivered them to house-bound Montauk seniors

when needed. Volunteers from Montauk Point Lions Club and Montauk Boy Scout Troop 136 helped serve the meal. Members of Suffolk County Girl Scout Troop 825 helped the Sarah Conway Holiday Trio fill the airwith Holiday songs.

- Fire News photos by Richard Lewin

MFD DRT- YourEye in the Sky

Submitted by Ex-Chief Robert Connolly

The Fire Service has evolved considerably in the last 30 years. From hip boots to bunker pants, from the “heat gun” to Thermal Imaging Cameras and even Bailout systems. Embracing new technology and incorporating it into our response has helped today’s firefighters become better prepared to battle the more intense modern fires we are encountering.

In 2020 a group of Mineola firefighters came together with an idea to bring the emerging small Unmanned Aerial System (sUAS), commonly referred to as drones, into the first line response for the fire service. The drone could be rapidly deployed at a fire scene to provide an incident commander with an overhead 360-degree view of the fire building. It also offered thermal imaging to provide hot spot detection. Initially, this small group of licensed pilots responded in their personal vehicles using their own equipment and offered the incident commander the opportunity to get a comprehensive look at their fire. This unique perspective allowed the IC to see where the fire was burning, where the water was going and what areas still needed to be addressed.

From this progressive group came the inception of the Mineola Fire Department Drone Response Team (MFD-DRT).

Department members studied for several months preparing for the rigorous Part 107 Remote Pilot exam. This was followed by regular drills on sUAS operations to develop proficiency with the Departments Mavic 2 Enterprise Drone. Today the team is composed of 20 remote pilots who have all achieved FAA Part 107 licenses.

The team has responded to multiple working fires throughout the county including several building fires in Westbury. At one such alarm the drone was able to provide the chief with a live view of master stream operations at a large warehouse fire. Upon completion of

this deployment Westbury Chief Ken Gass commented, “I highly recommend calling them if you have a large scale incident.” But it’s not just for fires. The drone has also been requested for large area searches for missing persons. The team worked a search detail at Jones Beach and multiple assignments at Belmont Lake State Park. MFD DRThas also provided aerial footage at an Active Shooter-EMS Staging Drill hosted by New Hyde Park FD. The drone has also been instrumental in preplanning locations in Mineola.

Recognizing the proven value of this specialized team, the Mineola Fire Department recently made an investment in the support of the team’s mission. The department repurposed

a chiefs car to act as the Drone Response Team Vehicle and upgraded the sUAS equipment. The Mineola Drone Unit is proud to announce that they are now fully operational with the DJI M30T. The MFD is the first agency on Long Island to operate The DJI Matrice 30TEnterprise. The M30Tis the DJI Enterprise flagship,a weatherproof drone designed with the fire service in mind. It integrates multiple high-performance sensors into one single camera payload, is controlled with the DJI RC Plus Remote and runs on upgraded DJI Pilot 2 software. The powerful M30Toffers the endurance and capability necessary for providing the IC with better situational awareness. The M30 can even operate with one of its dual batteries failing, and can make an emergency landing with only three propellers. Additionally, its size makes it ideal for easy transportation and fast setup. The UAS also includes a thermal imaging camera with cutting edge resolution and accuracy. The aircraft also provides a laser rangefinder which can give the precise coordinates of objects up to 4000-feet away. All of this technology is available at the flight controller, as well as to the IC through a tablet. In fact, there is even the capability of remote on-line viewing through a controlled hyperlink. You can watch the big one on-line while you’re stuck at work.

As they approach two years in operation, the MFD-DRT’s original Part 107 Pilots have already begun the process of maintaining currency of their UAS Airman Certification with the FAA. The team has been added to mutual aid procedures in multiple departments across the county and looks forward to incorporating a new class of pilots in the spring of 2023. For more information and on-scene video from recent responses please check out Mineola Fire Drone Response Team on Facebook. To request more information about the MFD-DRT contact the Mineola Fire Department at info@mineolafd.com.

- Fire News photos by Robert Connolly

Lakeville Estates Holiday Parade

Meet Chuck

Recently, the Lakeville Estates Civic Association 2022 Holiday Parade was held. The parade started at 1300 at Manhasset Lakeville Firehouse, which is on 78th Avenue and Lakeville Road. The parade traveled down South Stewart Avenue.

Suffolk County Fire Marshall’s newest memberis Accelerant Detection K9 “Chuck.” Chuck is assigned to work with Fire Marshal Ryan Fisher. K9 Chuck, is trained to sniff out accelerants at fire scenes.

- Fire News photo by Steve Takacs

- Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone

Looking Back

Joe Gonnelly Memorial Drill

July 16, 2022

PlaceTeam Score

1stWest Sayville

Flying Dutchmen27

2ndNorth Lindenhurst

Piston Knockers26

3rdHagerman Gamblers19

4thFarmingville Bandits17

5thWestbury Turtles10

5thPatchogue Forty Thieves10

- Fire News photos by Kim Versheck

Looking Back

Bay Shore Jr. Invitational Drill

July 10, 2022

PlaceTeamPoints

1stBay Shore Jr. Redskins35

2ndIslip Jr. Wolves25

2ndLindenhurst Jr. Snails25

2ndHagerman Jr. Gamblers25

5thBlue Point Mighty Midgets17

- Fire News photos by Kim Versheck

Up Close & Personal

Members of the Oceanside Fire Department’s EMS Department at theirFire Prevention Day held at the Thomas Bettes Sr. Memorial Training Centerin Oceanside. From left were Chief of Department Joseph Cariocca and EMS crew members Lt. Jenna Scholl, Kathleen Lucy and Keith

On January 23, 2023, members of the Setauket Fire Department checked theirpersonal safety ropes in honorof the 18th anniversary of the FDNYfires known as “Black Sunday.”

Bayville Fire Company, Assistant Chief Doyle (left) and Locust Valley Chief of Department Nolan at the command post of a recent fire in Bayville.

- Fire News photo by Over the Edge Photography

Medford 2nd Assistant Chief Ryan Melcher(left) and Suffolk County FRES CoordinatorKenny Dean at a Medford fire on January 25, 2023.

- Fire News photo by Thomas Lambui

Fred Overton (center), a 50-plus-yearmemberof the Westhampton Beach Fire Department and formerchairman of the Board of Fire Commissioners celebrated his 92nd birthday on January 26, 2023, with some help from department members who dropped by to wish him well.

- Fire News photo courtesy of the Westhampton Beach FD

Harmon.

- Fire News photo submitted by Mary Malloy

Fire Police crew from the West Islip Fire Department.

- Fire News photo by Sue Orlando, PIO, Bohemia FD

- Fire News photo by Jeremy Walters

Setauket Does Confined Space Training

On

January 25, 2023, the Setauket Fire Department trained on confined space rescues. - Fire News photos by Jeremy Walters

Seeing Double in Sound Beach

So. Farmingdale Jrs.

Twin brothers and Probationary Firefighters Luke and Liam Schibi at the scene of a recent wires down call. Liam recently joined his brotherwho is already an EMTwith the department.

- Fire News photo by Alex Riley

The South Farmingdale Fire Department members and juniors, enjoying all that the Long Island Fire/EMS Expo has to offer.

- Fire News photo by Jeff Tasch, Hendrickson Fire and Rescue Equipment

Joint Training with Islip and Babylon Hazmat Teams

On February 2, 2023, HazMat teams from Islip and Babylon held a training session to sharpen theirskills. Under the direction of Islip Team Leader Mike Allen, the members assembled into separate groups to use equipment to decipherbetween different chemicals, liquids orsolids. The exercise was well attended by both teams and information learned will be a benefit at future incidents. Thanks to Mike Allen and Jack Welliverforputting this exercise together.

- Fire News photos by Ken Bradbury

Westhampton Beach Juniors NeverForget

The Westhampton Beach JuniorFire Department delivered cookies to incoming Chief Darryl Schunk in memory of his father, Robert and brotherAllan.

- Fire News photos by Cody Hoyle

MOTLEY CREWS OF THE MONTH

Members of Westbury Fire Department aftera recent working fire in Roslyn.

- Fire News photo by Over the Edge Photography

Members of the Terryville Fire Department get togetherwith Santa Claus afterthe department parade.

- Fire News photo courtesy of the Terryville FD

Members of the Setauket Fire Department at a recent call.

- Fire News photo by Jeremy Walters

Members of the West Hempstead Fire Department aftera Christmas Day apartment fire in Hempstead.

- Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com

Exchange ambulance at the Bohemia Fire Department holiday parade.

- Fire News photo by Brian Meister

Santa Claus paid a visit to the Central Islip Fire Department at the Annual Children’s Christmas Party held at CIFD HQ.

- Fire News photo by Charlie Murphy

Members of Commack Ambulance at the scene of a house fire on Elm Drive in East Northport on February 3, 2023.

- Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber

Fourpast-Chiefs of the Central Islip Fire Department at a recent structure fire. (Left to right) : Chief Tom D’Arcangelo (20022004), Chief Joe Correira (1994-1996), Chief Rick Johnson (19961998) and Chief Bob Miller(1998-2000).

- Fire News photo by Charles A. Murphy, CIFD Photo Unit 1

West Sayville at Boat Burn

Attached is a photo of members from the West Sayville Fire Department at this year’s Annual Boat Burn which was held at the Long Island Maritime Museum.

- Fire News photo by Ken Bradbury, story by Patrick D’Onofrio, Assistant Chief

Farrell Fund

Trains Juniors

On January 21, 2023, the Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund held a training session forjuniors from the Bethpage and Garden City FDs forCRP, AED and First Aid training. All 15 students received certificates of completion from the American Heart Association. - Fire News photos provided by the Terry Farrell Fighters Fund

Santa Takes a Break

Firefighters Bring Christmas to the Wounded

Terence ‘Santa’Powderly of the Bellerose Fire Department takes a break aftera long day visiting with the wounded and theirchildren during Nassau County Firefighters Operation Wounded Warriorvisit to Bethesda and Fort Belvoirin December.

Nassau County firefighters, as they have forthe past 18 years, travelled down the East Coast to military installations in Decemberto bring Christmas to ourwounded warriors and their families. Firefighters made stops at Bethesda, MD; Fort Belvoir, VA; and Camp Lejeune and Fort Bragg in Nort Carolina. They also provided additional gift card assistance to the wounded at the VAHospital at Northport and to Nassau County Veteran Services. Former Hempstead Town Councilman and now Congressman Anthony D’Esposito, an ex-Chief of Island Park, made the trip and helped serve the wounded at Fort Belvoir.

- Fire News story by Steve Grogan

- Fire News photo by Steve Grogan

Southampton Swears in Officers

The 2023 Southampton Fire Department officers were sworn in on January 12, 2023, at Southampton Village Hall. Emanuel ‘Manny’ Escobarwas sworn in as Chief of Department. Richard Fowlerwas sworn in as 2nd Assistant Chief. First Assistant Chief Polis Walkerwas not present. Company officers were also sworn in. Many family members and department members were present to watch the swearing in ceremony. - Fire News photo by Chris Brenner, Southampton FD, PIO

McArdle Honored

At the January 2023 meeting of the Town of Babylon Chiefs Association, West Babylon ex-Chief Pete McArdle was presented a plaque in recognition of his time as President from 2020 to 2022. He was also presented proclamations from town, county and state dignitaries. In attendance was his wife Ellen who was presented a bouquet of flowers. (Left to right) : President Rob Waegerle, NYS Assemblyman Mike Durso, SC LegislatorKevin McCaffrey, Ellen McArdle, ex-Chief Pete McArdle, Town of Babylon Supv. Rich Schaffer, Councilman Terrence McSweeney and SC Legislature Tom Donnelly. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza

Nassau Juniors Officers for2023

On January 14, 2023, over 170 juniors, advisors, and family members joined in as the Nassau County Junior Firefighter’s Association swore in their 2023 officers: President Kyra Kozey of Syosset, 1st VicePresident Gia Wailia of Hicksville, Khadeejah Memon of East Norwich, Secretary Samara Metha of Jericho, Treasurer Audrey Sasso of Hewlett and Sergeant-at-Arms Sofia Pierno of Floral Park Centre.

The Association was formed in 2006 and this is the first year it has an all-female board. In President Kozey’s speech, she stated she was going to put a lot of focus on training and bringing attention to more junior groups in the county. She also stated she plans to meet with Suffolk County groups that have expressed interest in starting an association. There is no doubt that 2023 will be a very active and productive year.

Since the association started, it has grown in every way, each year coming up with new innovative ways to keep juniors engaged and coming back for more. Although the Junior Firefighter Program focuses on training the youth to become firefighters, a big part is based-on community service and leadership. To see more of what we do follow us on Facebook and Instagram @Nassau Juniors.

(Left to right): TreasurerAudrey Sasso of Hewlett, Secretary Samara Mehth of Jericho, Sergeant-at-Arms Sofia Pierno of Floral Park Centre, 2nd Vice President Khadeejah Memon of East Norwich, 1st Vice President Jia Walia of Hicksville.

President Kyra Kozey of Syosset.

(Left to right): Syosset Chief Dr. PeterSilver, Congressman Anthony D’Esposito, Preident Kyra Kozey of Syosset, 1st Vice President Jia Walia of Hicksville, 2nd Vice President Khadeejah Memon of East Norwich, Secretary Samara Mehth of Jericho, Sergeant at Arms Sofia Pierno of Floral Park Centre, TreasurerAudrey Sasso of Hewlett, Nassau County LegislatorJosh Lafazan, Chief Fire Marshal Michael Uttaro. - Fire News photos by Jerry Presta

Eastport’s Richard W. Allen

Richard W. Allen of Speonk, a member of the Eastport Fire Department, passed away on January 20, 2023. He was 85.

Ex-Captain Richard W. Allen was born in Providence, Rhode Island, the oldest of three children. His sister Joan currently resides in Virginia. Richard served in the United States Coast Guard, starting in Groton, Connecticut, then at sea and later stationed at the East Moriches Coast Guard Station. He specialized in communications as a Radioman.While serving in East Moriches, he met Barbara Ann Roschlau. After serving his four years of active duty in the USCG and an additional two years in reserve, Richard and Barbara married and started a family, raising their daughter, Lori. He then began his 36 years of employment at the Brookhaven National Laboratory retiring in 1998.

It was in 1969 Richard was elected to membership in the Eastport Fire Department, volunteering for 53 years until his passing. He served as the District Secretary for the most recent 19 years. During his time of service and commitment, he also served as

the Secretary, Captain of the Fire Police, and most recently as Charter Officer of the Benevolent Association.

Barbara passed away in 2000, and he is survived by his daughter and her husband Ed Hamor; his grandson Russell Utter and wife Spencer; and his granddaughter Emily Utter. He was their beloved PopPop.

Donations to the Eastport Fire Department would be most appreciated by the family.

- Fire News photos by John Neely, story by John Dalen

INAUGURALNFFFGOLFTOURNAMENT FUNDRAISER

I would like to invite you to a new National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) event, the inaugural NFFF Topgolf Tournament at National Harbor! The event will be held on Sunday, March 26, 2023, from 1400 to 1700 at 6400 Clipper Way, Oxon Hill, Maryland.

This tournament will raise funds for the NFFF’s programs to honor the fallen, assist their families, and prevent line-of-duty deaths across the country.

This is a great opportunity to join with friends, firefighters, and the local community and enjoy three hours of high-tech golf. All attendees receive food, a drink ticket and contest ticket, swag bag, and can bid in the silent auction.

Topgolf has climate-controlled hitting bays for yearround comfort with HDTVs in every bay and throughout the sports bar and restaurant. Golf clubs are complimentary or

you can bring your own to take aim at the giant outfield targets. The high-tech golf balls will score themselves. You can participate as an individual player or sign up to be a sponsor. We are offering sponsorship opportunities at various levels and the sponsor prospectus details each level and the benefits we provide. For more information or to purchase tickets/sponsorships online, visit theevent website or contact Regina Livingston by email or at 443-302-2907.

Please feel free to share this opportunity with your friends and contacts in the area. Thank you and we hope to see you there!

Chief Ron Siarnicki, Executive Director National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

FDSOAHEALTH AND SAFETYCONFERENCE DRAWS RECORD ATTENDANCE

Four organizations combined their firefighter health, safety and wellness conferences to bring more education to more fire service professionals

The Fire Department Safety Officers Association’s annual Health and Safety Conference broke new ground last month by collaborating and co-locating with like-minded health- and safety-focused fire service organizations.

For the first time the First Responder Center for Excellence’s Health and Wellness Symposium, F.I.E.R.O.’s PPE Symposium, Science Alliance’s inaugural Nerdstock and FDSOA’s Health and Safety Conference were held at one location with overlapping da tes.

“This collaboration made sense for the associations, the attend ees and the vendors,” says FDSOA’s Executive Director Rich Marinucci. “By co-locating, we saved everyone travel expenses and offered a deeper, more diverse line up of educational programs than we could have on our own. Collaborations always take more work. But when partners like these come together with a common goal of protecting firefighters, everything falls into place - and everyone comes out a winner.”

FDSOAhad nearly 40 speakers, 33 break-out educational sessions and two general sessions, Marinucci said. This drew significantly more attendees and vendors than any of the previous shows over the past eight years.

Those speakers included the U.S. Fire Administrator Lori Moore Merrell and Retired Fire Chief Dennis Compton, as well as long list of health and wellness experts.

One of the conference’s highlights was the FDSOAChairman’s Award being presented to National Fallen Firefighter Foundation Executive Director Ronald Siarnicki. Siarnicki announced earlie r this year he would retire after leading the group for 22 years.

“I am humbled to receive this award from our great friends at FDSOA,” Siarnicki said. “And I want to extend my gratitude to FDSOAfor everything they do to educate and train safety officers.”

FDSOAnamed Casey Jones the 2023 Safety Officer of the Year. Jones, in his acceptance speech said the unknown was the most dangerous thing facing the fire service today. “There are a lot of unknowns, but it is really ourselves, because we are the ones who fear the unknown.” Preparedness, he said, is not a destination, but an

ongoing effort to learn and improve.

And learning and improving was the at the core of the combined conferences.

F.I.E.R.O. President Robert Tutterow said he came away from the joint conferences with a renewed sense of its importance and th e importance of health and safety play in fire department leaders hip.

“As I’ve reflected on this past week, I’ve had the thought that no one should be deemed qualified for fire chief unless they have served two years as a certified HSO officer in a department,” Tutterow said. “This safety week has established itself as the must-go event f or fire service personnel and vendors. You will not find better topics and speakers than at this conference.”

Science Alliance drew standing-room only to its TED Talk-style presentations focusing on firefighter health and wellness research. The new group was the brainchild of noted fire service researcher Sara Jahnke, who is the director and senior scientist at NDRI-USA.

“Everyone worked so hard over the past year to take Science Alliance, and ultimately Nerdstock, from concept to reality,” Jahnke said. “I was filled with a parental-like pride and emotion looking out and seeing standing room only for our sessions. It not only validated our staff’s hard work, but also the importance the fire service places on meaningful scientific research for firefighter health and wellness. The collaboration with FDSOA, F.I.E.R.O. and FRCE was critical to our success.”

About FDSOA

The Fire Department Safety Officers Association was established in 1989 as a non-profit association. Its mission is to promote safety standards and practices in the fire, rescue and emergency services community. The association is led by a volunteer board of directors and has a small staff to handle the day-to-day operations. The association is dedicated to the issues that affect the critical rol e of the safety officer in protecting and promoting the safety and health responsibilities of fire departments, communities and first res ponders. FDSOAcan be found on the web at www.fdsoa.org. Please follow FDSOAon LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Obituary Fire News Contributor John ‘Jack’Healy

John ‘Jack’Healy passed away suddenly after an accident occurred in his home on January 17, 2023. He was rushed to Nassau University Medical Center by a Wantagh Fire Department ambulance, but succumbed to his injuries about a day later.

Born in Brooklyn in 1937, Jack and his parents moved to the West Hempstead area where he attended local schools. In 1955 he joined the US Navy serving aboard the USS Ticonderoga CVS 14, (an aircraft carrier) where he attained the rating of

Radarman 1st Class.

In 1960 while attending Adelphi College he met his wife of 59-years, Audrey. They married in 1963 and moved to Forest Hills and in 1967 bought a home in Seaford where they raised a family, sons John Jr., and Patrick ,and a daughter Lorraine. Jack was employed by Chase Manhattan Bank and rose through the company as a Vice President of Domestic Private Banking. He retired in 1998 after some 36-years.

He was active in his community serving on the Seaford Library Board, the Boy Scouts of America, the Knights of Columbus-Memorare Council and St. William the Abbot RC Church.

An avid photographer, Jack also found time to serve the Wantagh and Seaford fire departments documenting their emergency activities. He has been published numerous times in Newsday, The New York Times, the New York Post and Fire News, the latter which he has served for some 50-plus years.

Jack is survived by his wife Audrey, his sons John Jr. and Patrick (Clarice), his daughter Lorraine Joyce (Andrew) and eight grandchildren, a sister Alice Benson (Howard) and a brother Joseph.

AMass of Christian Burial was held at St. William the Abbot RC Church on January 21, 2023.

- Fire News photos by Harry Loud