VOLUME XLVII, NO. 9
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Since 1973 MAY 2020
See story on page 38. - Fire News photo by Brian Grogan
Covid Coverage Pages 4, 6, 8, 9 and 60-62
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Fire News, May 2020, Page 3
In this issue... Middle Island FF Injured A tree comes down on a Middle Island firefighter responding to a brush fire. See story on page 10
Firefighters Save Barricaded Man Despite the man’s fighting off rescue attempts, an East Rockaway FF and a Lynbrook chief make the rescue. See story on page 14
EMS Around the Island As if things weren’t busy enough. Starts on page 42
Westhampton Beach Juniors The National Volunteer Fire Council chooses them Program of the Year 2019.
See story on page 48
Cars vs. Houses Hicksville and Roslyn Two bad MVAs into houses, with one resulting in a fatality despite a fast extrication. See stories on pages 72-73
Obituaries Freeport’s Chris Loche Massapequa’s Anthony Cardillo Valley Stream’s Michael Field Patchogue’s John L. Barry, Jr. Dix Hills’ Philip H. Tepe
A Service for Long Island Firefighters and EMS Heroes Founded 1973
146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713 FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher TIM EDWARDS, Executive Editor DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor GARY P. JOYCE, Asst. Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production/Sales LYNN SEDLER, Art Director CLIFF CHIESA, Production Manager Advertising Sales: BARBARA CONNOLLY Graphic Artist: GREG JONES, JEB LADOUCEUR, Publisher Emeritus CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: Vinnie Ammirati, Dennis Berger, Chris Brenner, Jeff Bressler, Kirk Candan, Amanda Coffey, Ed Coppa, Bill D'Alessandro, Jim Dunn, Larry Fox, Lee Genser, Bryan Gosik,Brian Grogan, Steve Grogan,Mike Guarino, Stephanie Handshaw, Jeff Havlik, Jack Healy, Michael Heller, Robert Holley, Cody Hoyle, Kevin Imm, John Ippolito, Tom Lambui, Richard Lewin, Bryan Lopez, Harry Loud, Kurt Ludwig, Brad Maier, John Mancino, Paul Mazza, Lou Minutoli, Ron Monteleone, Michael Murphy, Charles A. Murphy, Mike Oppedisano, John Neely, Robert O'Rourk, Kevin Parkan, Tom Pesce, Kevin Peterson, Jackson Pokress, Jerry Presta, Myles Quinn, Dave Rubin, Jim Rugen, AJ Ryan, Drew Silverman, Steve Silverman, Joe Sperber, JoAnn Stephani, Brian Thomas, Ed Tuffy, Joe Virgilio, Steve Walsh, Dennis Whittam, Cameron Wilken COLUMNISTS: Jeff Bailes, Paul Hashagen, Bruce Johnson, John Salka, Billy Goldfeder, Danny Peluso, Bradley Pinksy, Tom Rinelli COPYRIGHT 2020, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
Wear Your Mask! On March 11, 2020, the COVID-19 outbreak was characterized as a pandemic by the WHO (World Health Organization). This is the first pandemic known to be caused by the emergence of a new coronavirus, namely COVID 19. As this disease took hold of the world, our fire rescue and emergency services were faced with educating and setting up protocols for dealing with the disease. Thanks to our doctors, research organizations and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and County EMS and FRES organizations, guidelines were set up for handling patients that were suspected of having COVID 19. I am very proud of how our first responders have been involved with this pandemic from the “get go” and set up recommendations for all departments to follow. Daily updates on the disease have kept anyone involved with patient care informed about the progress of the disease. They have updated you around the clock with recommendations, who to call if you have problems, patient testing and personal safety. Guidelines for patient care and transport were sent to everyone. Not only have guidelines been set for our EMS providers, guidelines were set for general fire alarm response. Limit the number of vehicles that respond and the number of personnel that may be exposed to people or premises on the alarm. Keep ambulance crews staffed with a minimum crew. If more members are
needed, request additional personal. Check with your county EMS and fire rescue and emergency services for recommendations. I recently listened — via Zoom — to a Webinar about the “mask debate.” The presentation was excellent. (My compliments to Suffolk County FRES and Northwell Health EMS on providing indepth knowledge on how this disease spreads.) In general, there is no debate. Wear your mask! Whether it is a N95 mask or a common surgical mask, wear it properly. What should you do if you do not have a mask? I am sure you have seen the creative and designer masks people are making at home. Yes, these homemade masks help. You must keep your distance to prevent aerosol or airborne droplets from coming in contact with your face. Wear the mask! Droplets of this disease can spread through handshaking, sneezing and exhalation. It is important that the patient also dons a mask. A simple sneeze can spread 40,000 particles at 100m/second. Each sneeze can contain millions of viral particles. In closing, I remind you that I am no expert on the spread of COVID 19. However, I highly recommend that you speak with the doctors and your county EMS and FRES officials. To all responders; Thank You For Your Service! - Dennis
Alert: Coronavirus Threatens LOSAP When the COVID-19 pandemic started, the fire service took immediate action to protect our senior members by asking them to rethink their response in order to protect them. Many districts are asking the State not to penalize their “at risk” responders if they do not meet their LOSAP requirements. Fire News urges all responders to contact their Senators, AssemblyLeaders and Governor Cuomo, to give senior members of all departments credit for LOSAP as if they have responded to the call. Let’s protect our senior members on whom COVID 19 could have a devastating effect. Your letters to our friends in government are important. DO IT NOW! - Dennis
COVID-19:
What First Responders, Volunteers, Essential Employees and Health Care Workers Should Do if Symptomatic or Test Positive. How to Preserve Your Legal Rights! In the event essential workers become symptomatic or tests positive for COVID-19, there are several things that they should do from a legal standpoint. Even if you feel you have recovered from a bout with COVID-19, there are many questions yet to be answered about long lasting effects or disabilities or death that may be caused by the virus. Many health care providers, emergency responders and essential employees are likely being exposed or have been regularly exposed to Corona Virus disease over the past several weeks simply by performing their job duties. No one knows what will be the long-term effects of CoronaVirus Exposure. At present there is no automatic presumption that grants automatic Workers' Compensation coverage for COVID-19 exposure. Here are the steps we believe workers should take in order to protect their rights. • If you have been exposed or are aware of a situation where exposure has occurred, file a written notice or report with your employer indicating the date and nature of the exposure. If your employer does not have a formal filing procedure for on the job injuries or illnesses, send an e-mail, so it is documented. • If you do not specifically know where or how you have been exposed, once you become symptomatic or test positive, a similar notice should be provided to the employer, except the member should simply indicate that they have contracted the disease in the course of or performance of their employment, due to repeated exposures in the work environment. • When and if a workers becomes symptomatic or tests positive for COVID-19, the employer should be notified and the worker should file a claim with the Workers' Compensation Board based on “accidental exposure,” not as an “occupational disease.”
• Unless a “presumption law” is adopted by the State Legislature and enacted into law, these claims will most likely be controverted or litigated by the employers or their insurance companies. (Senator Brooks’ pending bill: S8041A seeks to carve out a presumption for Volunteer Fire and Ambulance services). • Each affected essential worker will need to provide medical documentation and the written support of a physician, including positive test results, indicating that the employee contracted the virus through the performance of his or her job duties. That opinion must be made within a reasonable degree of medical certainty, and supported by the testing. Our law firm is prepared to help you navigate these uncertainties and anticipated litigation battles with insurance companies. If you’ve used your own sick and/or vacation time, we will assist you in establishing the claim through the Workers’ Compensation system and seek to have a portion of your sick time restored. If you’ve directly incurred any medical or pharmacy costs to treat the virus, we will seek to have those medical bills reimbursed and ongoing bills appropriately covered under Workers' Compensation insurance, with no out of pocket expenses incurred by you. Be sure to keep receipts. We believe the real litigation battles will arise in cases where the disability caused by the disease has resulted in long-lasting effects or causes a worker to miss work beyond the time of the usual quarantine period. We also believe that some workers may become affected with mental health issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder as a result of their participation in the front-line response to this crisis. Considering the extraordinary nature of this pandemic, these emotional stress claims may be viable under the (Continued on page 9)
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FDSOA Best Practices for COVID-19 Pandemic The Fire Department Safety Officers Association (FDSOA) recommends implementing the following actions during the COVID-19 pandemic, if your department has not already: • Screen personnel when they are coming on duty and then 12 hours later (24-hour shifts). If they have 100.4°F temperature or signs/symptoms of illness, send them home. Ensure your Infection Control Officer is notified, if any personnel are identified. Some agencies are just using fever/chills and signs/symptoms of a respiratory illness (dyspnea, cough), another agency is saying if they have two or more of the following: muscle aches and pain; nonproductive cough; sore throat; runny nose; nausea; send them home. ** Check with your medical directors/hospital systems, etc., for local recommendations. ** • Develop a maximum and minimum staffing level plan per type of apparatus for volunteer companies. • Limit the number of members having patient contact to essential personnel only. • Ensure personnel know when and how to don the appropriate PPE. Ensure supplies of PPE are available and create a reuse protocol for N95 masks based on CDC recommendations to manage limited supplies. • Have your communications center implement a flu/COVID-19 screening process on calls. This information can be sent to responders while en route to the call so they can don their PPE prior to making patient contact.
• When personnel respond to emergencies, have them slow down and assess the scene before entering. Sometimes the unknowns can be patients with flu-like symptoms. This will allow them to stop and don PPE prior to entering the building. • A mask should be placed on patients you are concerned about potentially having the illness. • Limit personnel entering the hospital at time of transfer of care and other needs to visit the hospital. • Allow units to temporarily go out of service to clean their unit, uniform and shower if they run a patient with flu/COVID-19 signs and symptoms. Ensure an exposure form has been completed for tracking purposes. • If personnel are off duty they should not be in the station/admin facilities. • Eliminate in-person, non-essential meetings. Use teleconferencing if possible. Promote telecommuting for non-essential personnel. • Utilize social distancing while on duty. • Eliminate social functions (bingo, pancake breakfast, company meetings, allowing the public into the station for station tours). • If there isn’t a plan for reductions in workforce, then work to create one — this should be part of your COOP. • Have a plan to quarantine personnel if directed (where will they go, what leave status will they
be placed on, food, etc.). • For volunteer companies with live-ins, have a plan to relocate them if they become ill. • Continue to promote hygiene practices and cleaning of works spaces. • Increase the frequency of wiping down door handles and all surfaces at the station and in the apparatus. The virus can live on a surface for up to three days. Make sure your EVT mechanics are aware of the need to clean all apparatus. • Ensure that there is a plan if personnel test positive for COVID-19, i.e., a plan for communication and potential coverage during the quarantine period. • Cease the use of humidifiers in stations/bunk rooms. • With all the disaster declarations, work with budget/procurement personnel to track all purchases such as PPE for possible reimbursement. • Work to have “one voice” sending information to the department. All formal messages/direction on COVID-19 should come from one person. This way it avoids duplication and possibly contradictive information. Reference of information should be from a reputable and consistent source, i.e., CDC. • If your organization hasn’t set up an IMT for this situation, recommend one be established. If one is set up, make sure you have an HSO/ISO representative on it.
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US Fire Administration COVID-19 Resources This message from the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) includes critical and emergent resources for fire and EMS on the COVID-19 response. The COVID-19 outbreak is a rapidly evolving situation. USFA will update information at least once each week. ________________________________________ Visit the USFA’s website at https://www.usfa.fema.gov/coronavirus/index.html for additional COVID-19 resources for fire and EMS.
Fire Service Behavioral Health Management Guide. This guide helps fire departments enhance their existing behavioral health programs and assists fire departments who are just beginning to develop formalized programs with limited resources. National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (https://www.everyonegoeshome.com /2017/12/21/behavioral-health-management/). IAFC Behavioral Health. Resources for behavioral health and alcohol screenings. International Association of Fire Chiefs (https://iafc safety.org/behavioral-health/).
Featured Resources Agencies and Organizations COVID-19 Pandemic Response Resources. Information for providers, families and leadership. Uniformed Services University Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress (www.cstsonline.org).
IAFF Behavioral Health Program. Resources that educate and support IAFF members on behavioral health concerns. International Association of Fire Fighters (https://www.iaff.org/behavioral-health/). We’re Here for You. Several health and wellness resources that you may find useful during this time. First Responder Center for Excellence (https://www.firstrespondercenter.org/were-here-for-you/).
________________________________________ Dealing with Stress, Anxiety and Grief during COVID-19. NIH Director Dr. Francis Collins discusses the stress and anxiety that people Counterfeit Respirators: What You Need to Know are feeling from COVID-19 with Dr. Joshua Gordon, Director of NIH’s An image for your social media accounts to increase awareness about National Institute of Mental Health. National Institutes of Health. how to identify counterfeit respirators(see bottom of page) that are (https://directorsblog.nih.gov/2020/04/07/dealing-with-stress-anxietymaking their way into the market during the COVID-19 pandemic can and-grief-during-covid-19/). be found at: https://www.usfa.fema.gov/img/share/counterfeit_respirators. 1200x600.png. Topic Collection: COVID-19 Behavioral Health Resources. A collec________________________________________ tion of resources created by federal agencies and their partners to help healthcare providers, caregivers and the general population prepare for COVID-19 Essential Information and manage the negative behavioral effects that can accompany a pub- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Resources to protect the lic health emergency. ASPR Technical Resources, Assistance Center, fire and EMS from COVID-19 (https://www.cdc.gov/niosh and Information Exchange (https://asprtracie.hhs.gov/technical- /emres/2019_ncov.html). resources/115/covid-19-behavioral-health-resources/99). EMS.gov. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Office Fire Service Associations of Emergency Medical Services provides current COVID-19 informaCenter for Firefighter Behavioral Health. Behavioral heal resources and tion for EMS responders (https://www.ems.gov/projects/ education for firefighters and their families (http://www.cffbh.org). coronavirus_covid-19_resources.html).
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COVID-19: Legal Rights...continued from page 4 Workers’ Compensation Law, but undoubtedly will be heavily litigated and contested by the insurance industry. The maximum Workers’ Compensation weekly payment in New York is the lesser of $934.11 or two-thirds of one’s average weekly wage. For Volunteer Fire, Rescue and Ambulance the Maximum is $600, but a bill to increase the benefits has been introduced in the State Senate (S-8086). If an essential worker becomes permanently disabled, or passes away due to the disease, we expect there likely will be litigation over the benefits to which they or their beneficiaries may be entitled. • If an essential worker passes away due to the COVID-19 illness, his or her dependents may be entitled to Workers’ Compensation survivors’ benefits in connection with the death. Those benefits may be up to $50,000 per year, tax-free. • An essential worker who develops a long term disability or becomes permanently disabled due to the damaging effects of the disease may be entitled to ongoing payments to cover the loss of wages caused by the disease. Those benefits might be up to $50,000 per year, tax-free, to cover the loss of income time due to disability caused by the illness. In each of these scenarios, we expect insurance companies and employers will argue that it cannot be proven that the virus was contracted in the workplace or in the performance of the members’ job duties. However, given the nature of the repeated exposures front-line workers are likely to suffer given the magnitude of the pandemic, we can help workers overcome such defenses. Workers in public employment may also be members of The New York State or City Employees' Retirement Systems. If you are a member of either of those retirement systems, you may be able to file for a disability pension in the event that you become permanently disabled from the full duties of your job title based on the permanent effects of the COVID-19 illness. However, at this time, there exists no “legal presumption” that these permanent disabilities would be considered to be the result of an “accident” as that term is defined in the New York Retirement and Social Security Law. Therefore, entitlement to any of these disability pensions would not come
with enhanced disability benefits such as “three-quarter” disability pensions, unless and until the State Legislature amends current laws so as create a “legal presumption” that these permanent disabilities have been incurred “as a result of an accident” and in the performance of the duties. Filing a Workers’ Compensation claim will also satisfy the notice requirement for a Civil Service disability pension as well, and protects a City or State employee’s right to file for a disability pension in the future in the event the illness becomes disabling. We expect that the Retirement Systems are likely to litigate whether deaths caused by COVID-19 should be covered as “accidental deaths,” and thus contest the ability of any dependents to collect any enhanced death benefits that might come with such a benefit. Connecting the illness to the job duties of the member will be crucial to these claims. For long-term disabilities, Social Security Disability benefits may also be available to workers who must to stop working for more than 12 continuous months, or permanently, due to the symptoms of the illness. With so little known about the long-term effects, it is reasonable to believe that some worker with pre-existing and underlying conditions will suffer permanent aggravations of those conditions due to contracting COVID-19. This may be especially true with regard to 9/11 responders suffering with the respiratory illnesses associated with that tragedy or older workers who have been dealing with compromised immune systems or veterans with preexisting exposure to toxins. We can assist with claims for Social Security Disability benefits based upon any resulting disabling conditions. We understand that in circumstances such as you have been going through, there may be many questions about your future and your rights. Our team of attorneys is prepared to assist our heroic essential workers and all health care providers and first-responders with claims for various types of disability benefits at this trying time. Consultations with our office are free. During the “distance keeping period,” we are available to conduct consultations by phone, by ZOOM conference, or on-line. Fusco, Brandenstein & Rada, P.C. 1-800-416-5454.
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Firefighter Injured at Brush Fire On April 16, 2020, the Manorville Fire Department responded to a brush fire in a large area of woods west of Schultz Road. Units found a large fire deep in the woods off the roadway. Mutual came from Brookhaven National Lab, Brookhaven, Wading River, Yaphank, Hagerman, Center Moriches, East Moriches, Riverhead, Eastport, Coram, Rocky Point, Mastic Beach, Mount Sinai and Farmingville. The wind driven, low burning fire took hours for crews to bring under control. One firefighter was transported to Stony Brook University Hospital for injuries. While Middle Island was operating in the woods, Firefighter Nick Heege was at the rear of the brush truck when the top of a large tree fell and struck him in the back, pinning him between the tree and the tank of the truck. Other firefighters were able to remove the tree and Firefighter Heege was transported via Brookhaven National Lab Ambulance with a Middle Island Fire Department paramedic onboard to Stony Brook University Hospital. Nick suffered three broken ribs and multiple spinal fractures, he has a long road of recovery ahead of him. The Middle Island Fire Department Chief’s office would like to thank the mutual aid departments, friends, family and community for reaching out to them with their continued support. To Nick, get well soon, we are all here for you and your family. Visit the Middle Island Fire Department’s Facebook (www.middleislandfd.com) page for information on donating to Nicks recovery expenses. - Fire News photos by Bryan Lopez
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Balcony Fire in Farmingdale
On March 10, 2020, at 1426, the Farmingdale Fire Department, along with a dual response engine from the South Farmingdale, responded to a fire on the second-floor balcony at the Lofts on Eastern Parkway in Farmingdale. The fire was quickly extinguished and no extension into the apartment was found. - Fire News photos by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
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Kitchen Fire in Franklin Square
Basement Fire in Roslyn
A working fire was transmitted in Franklin Square on the evening of March 12, 2020. The fire was in the kitchen of a private dwelling on Benris Avenue near Jefferson Street. Mutual aid companies also responded to the scene. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Recently, Roslyn Rescue and Roslyn Highlands Fire Companies were dispatched to a report of a basement fire on Jefferson Avenue. Highlands Chief of Department Varela arrived and found fire in the rear of the first floor. Additional units stretched three lines and extinguished the fire. Mutual aid companies were also on-scene. - Fire News photo by OverTheEdgePhotography.com
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Firefighters Save Man in Barricaded Home Lynbrook’s Fire Chief and an East Rockaway firefighter saved a man who had barricaded himself in his burning home but not before he assaulted the chief who had forced his way into the fire to save him in East Rockaway. The East Rockaway Fire Department was notified of a house fire on Elbert Place shortly after noon on March 30, 2020. First arriving firefighters found heavy fire in the front of the home with neighbors saying someone was trapped inside the burning home. Lynbrook Fire Chief Nick Pearsall who had seen the smoke after completing a fire call in Lynbrook responded. With the fire blowing out the front door and windows of the home, the chief went to a rear door and forced it open. Without the protection of a hose line he entered and began a search for the victim in heavy smoke and intense heat and fire. Chief Pearsall located the unconscious victim on the floor in the front living room and proceeded to drag the victim back through the dining room and kitchen to the rear door. When they were close to the back door the victim suddenly regained consciousness and fought with the chief. He kicked the Chief’s helmet and facepiece, knocking off the Chief’s breathing mask. The man ran back into the heavy smoke and fire. Just then East Rockaway Firefighter James Monaco came in the rear door and met up with Chief Pearsall. Monaco said the victim did not pass him in the heavy smoke, so the two began to search again inside the home for the man. They found the victim in the basement, where even more fire was found. Chief Pearsall and Firefighter Monaco working together were able to drag the man back upstairs and out the back door where they passed the man to Nassau County Police who were waiting outside. The victim was in serious condition at a local hospital. Firefighters from all the surrounding communities responded to the scene to assist in fighting the blaze. The fire was under investigation by the Nassau County Fire Marshalls Office and the Nassau County Police Arson Squad. The man has been charged with arson and assaulting the chief. - Fire News photos by Brian Grogan, story by Steve Grogan
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Roslyn House Fire
In the early morning of March 18, 2020, the Roslyn Fire Companies responded to a house fire on Dogwood Avenue. First arriving units encountered a large two-story home with heavy fire showing from exposure 2 and 3 sides. Roslyn Rescue Engine 567 was first due, Roslyn Highlands Quint 598 set up in the driveway on the number 2 side while Sea Cliff Ladder 574 set up on the exposure 4 side. Crews stretched and operated three lines to extinguish the fire on
the exterior, second floor and attic. All searches of the house were negative and there were no reported injuries. It took about two hours to bring the fire under control. Mutual aid came from Glen Cove, Carle Place, Glenwood and East Norwich. Units from the Glen Cove, Westbury and Manhasset-Lakeville Fire Departments stood by. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza, K2MPhotography.com and OverTheEdgePhotography.com
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Central Islip Kitchen Fire The Central Islip Fire Department received a call reporting a kitchen fire at a residence on Fruitwood Lane on February 17, 2020. Chief of Department Chris Portelli was in command of four CIFD units and 47 firefighters. The fire caused damage to the kitchen and contents but was mostly out on arrival. The area was checked for any extension, and there was smoke and water damage as a result. Chief Portelli directed that the gas and electric services be secured. No injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by Charles A. Murphy, CIFD Photo Unit 1
Commack Garage Fire The Commack Fire Department responded to a house fire on Ronny Street on March 21, 2020, at 1754. Upon arrival of units a heavy fire condition was discovered in the attached garage of the home. All occupants were out of the house and no injuries were reported. Mutual aid companies came from East Northport and Kings Park, along with Commack Ambulance. Smithtown stood by at Commack. The Huntington Town Fire Marshal and Suffolk Police investigated the cause. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
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1 Hurt at Uniondale House Fire The Uniondale Fire Department was alerted for a house fire on Liberty Street about 0300 on March 18, 2020. Ladder 7544 set up in front. Two lines were put in operation from Engine 752. The fire was located in the basement and extended to the second floor through the walls. All searches of the home were negative and it took about 45 minutes to bring the fire under control. North Bellmore was requested to the scene for a FAST. Units from Hempstead, Roosevelt and South Hempstead stood by. One civilian was taken to Nassau University Medical Center. Chief of Department Skelly was in charge. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Roslyn Fire Rekindles On March 18, 2020, at 0715, Roslyn Rescue and Roslyn Highlands Fire Companies were dispatched to a roof fire at the scene of an earlier fire which had rekindled (see page 16). Units arrived to find fire through the roof. Rescue Engine 567 used its deck gun while crews stretched the first line. Multiple mutual aid crews were called to the scene to assist using tower ladders and master streams. - Fire News photo by OvertheEdgePhotos.com
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King Park Recycling Fire
The Smithtown Fire Department responded to a building fire at Winter Brothers recycling facility on Lawrence Road in Kings Park. Upon arrival, firefighters found a heavy fire condition inside the building. Mutual aid came from Kings Park, Commack, Hauppauge and Saint James. The Suffolk Police and Smithtown Town Fire Marshal investigated. - Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
Quick KO in Nissequogue The Nissequogue Fire Department responded to a house fire at Spring Hollow Road in Nissequogue on March 14, 2020, at 1630. A fire was discovered on the first floor of the home extending to the second floor. Firefighters quickly knocked down the fire. Mutual aid companies came from Saint James, Nesconset and Smithtown. Hauppauge and Kings Park stood by. The Nissequogue Police and Smithtown Fire Marshal were investigating the cause. - Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
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North Babylon Commercial Fire
On March 18, 2020, the North Babylon Fire Company was alerted for a building fire at Dariene Coffee on Broadway. Third Assistant Chief Alt arrived to smoke showing. Chief of Department Harrington and had Engine 1-8-2 stretch a line into the building where they located the fire in a large machine and quickly knocked it down. Ladder 1-8-6 set up in front of the building and a second line was brought to the roof to extinguish a pocket of fire where a flue was removed and the roof opened up. The fire was broughtv under control in about 30 minutes. Mutual aid came from West Babylon, Babylon, East Farmingdale and Wyandanch; West Islip stood by. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
Hoarding Conditions at Huntington Manor Fire In the early morning hours of February 16, 2020, the Huntington Manor Fire Department was activated for a residential structure fire on East 12th Street. Commanding units were met with heavy smoke showing from a detached garage. First-due crews were able to make a quick knock of the blaze without further incident, despite facing heavy hoarder conditions within the structure. No injuries were reported and command requested a fire marshal to the scene for an investigation. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
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Dix Hills Contains Garage Fire
The Dix Hills Fire Department responded to a garage fire in a single-story ranch on Baldwin Path, on March 7, 2020. Firefighters made a quick attack on the blaze, which was contained and stopped in the garage. Units were under the command of Third Assistant Chief Scott DiPino. Deer Park assisted at the scene, while Commack, Greenlawn and Melville provided standby coverage.
The Town of Huntington Cyanide Response Team was activated as well. There were no injuries reported, and the Huntington Town Fire Marshal and Suffolk Police Arson Squad were investigating. Suffolk County Fire-Rescue Coordinators were also on the scene. - Fire News story and photo by Steve Silverman
Pool Drive Garage Fire
On March 26, 2020, the Roslyn Rescue and Roslyn Highlands Fire Companies were dispatched to a garage fire on Pool Drive. Rescue 2nd Assistant Chief Collura was first to arrive. Rescue Engine 567 stretched the initial attack line to the garage door while crews gained access to the garage. The fire was quickly brought under control and found to be contained to the garage with no extension to the living areas of the house. - Fire News photos by OverTheEdgePhotography.com
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Uniondale Garage Fire, Collapse The Uniondale Fire Department was called to a reported house fire on California Avenue near Front Street about 0440 on March 31, 2020. First arriving unit found the garage fully involved and the fire spreading to the second floor of the two-story home and a van in the driveway. Ladder 7544 set up in front of the house. The crew from Engine 752 and additional arriving engines, stretched and operated three handlines. The fire caused most of the garage to collapse with the front collapsing onto the van making the garage inaccessible. The van was pulled back with a winch off 7544 so crews could knock down pockets of fire in the garage. All searches of the house were negative; all the occupants had exited prior to the fire department’s arrival. Once the main body of fire was knocked down, the master stream from 7544 was used to hit any hot spots in the collapsed garage. It took about hour to bring the fire under control; Mutual aid came from North Bellmore, Hempstead, Freeport, East Meadow and Roosevelt. First Assistant Chief Ashley was in charge of the scene. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Quick Knock at Huntington Manor Garage Fire Recently, the Huntington Manor Fire Department was activated for a residential structure fire on East 12th Street. Upon arrival, command units were met with heavy smoke showing from a detached garage. First-due crews were able to make a quick knockdown of the blaze without incident, despite facing heavy hoarder conditions within the structure. No injuries were reported and command requested a fire marshal to the scene for an investigation. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
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1 Hurt, Pet Saved in Floral Park
One person was injured after fire broke out in an Irving Avenue residence in Floral Park on March 22, 2020, just before 1500. Heavy smoke and flames were visible from the second floor and attic of the two-story home. One occupant was already being escorted outside as firefighters commenced their search for additional occupants.
Handlines were stretched and mutual aid companies were summoned to assist. A family pet was discovered and promptly removed. The blaze took nearly an hour to bring under control. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com and K2MPhotography.com
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Jericho Car Fire On April 1, 2020, Jericho firefighters responded to North Marginal Road by North Broadway in Jericho for a car fire. No injuries were reported but the SUV was destroyed. - Fire News photos by ImmsterFirePhotos.com and Joseph C. Sperber
East Hampton Fights Wainscott Blaze
Firefighters from the East Hampton Fire Department, under the direction of Chief Gerard Turza, Jr., assisted by mutual aid from the Sag Harbor and Amagansett, fought a fire in the walls and roof of a Liano Drive home in Wainscott North on March 29, 2020. - Fire News photo by Michael Heller
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Suspicious Fire in Brentwood
In the early morning of April 15, 2020, the Brentwood Fire Department was activated for a commercial structure fire on Pine Aire Drive. Upon arrival, commanding units advised the fire was in a 30-foot detached trailer with unknown contents at the rear of the building. The fire was quickly knocked down by the crew of Engine 3-2-16 without incident. Command requested the SCPD Arson Squad and a Islip Town Fire Marshal, due to the suspicious nature of the fire. - Fire News photos by Bryan Lopez and Paul Mazza
Collapse, Gas Leak in E. Farmingdale
On April 13, 2020, during heavy rain and violent winds, the East Farmingdale Fire Company was activated for a reported collapse with gas leak at a commercial building on Milbar Boulevard. Assistant Chief Duane Welliver was first to arrive and confirmed a partial collapse of the structure. Command requested a fire marshal, building inspector, and National Grid to respond to the scene. Luckily, no injuries were reported. - Fire News photos by Bryan Lopez and Paul Mazza
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MVA, Fire in Brentwood On April 14, 2020, the Brentwood Fire Department and Brentwood Legion Ambulance were called to an MVA with reported fire on the northbound side of the Sagtikos State Parkway near Pine Aire Drive. Units were met with a fully involved SUV that crashed over the guardrail into the center median. All occupants were out of the vehicle. The fire was quickly knocked down by the crew of Engine 3-2-16. No injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
N. Amityville MVA The North Amityville Fire Company responded to a single car accident with reported car fire on southbound Route 110 near Lindy Avenue about 2150 on April 14, 2020. Second Assistant McFadden confirmed the vehicle fire and was followed in by First Assistant Chief Nelson and Third Assistant Chief Henry, along with Engine 17-1 and Ambulance 1-7-22. The driver of an SUV went off the road and crashed through a utility pole snapping it, then went through the parking lot of a car wash taking down multiple concrete poles. The vehicle stopped after going through a fence and then burst into flames. The driver fled the scene and was being looked for by Suffolk Police. The crew from 1-7-1 put two lines into operation and had the fire under control and extinguished in about 15 minutes. Route 110 was closed in both directions for several hours. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
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House Fire in Brookhaven
On April 5, 2020, the Brookhaven Fire Department, Suffolk Police and South Country Ambulance responded a house on fire on Yaphank Avenue between Deer Meadow Run and Harcourt Street. Fire was located on the first and second floors of the two-story house. Firefighters discovered on unconscious dog and removed it
to the rear yard where they were able to resuscitate the animal. A second dog was discovered in the house and removed. A woman was in the residence at the time of the fire and it was unclear if she was injured. Numerous surrounding fire departments responded to assist. - Fire News photos by LiHotShots.smugmug.com
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All Safe at Lakeview House Fire On the night of April 10, 2020, the Lakeview Fire Department operated on the scene of a fire on Lafayette Avenue off Woodfield Road. The main body of fire was in the basement of a two-story private dwelling with extension to the floor above. Hempstead, West Hempstead, South Hempstead, Lynbrook, East Rockaway and Elmont also responded. Firefighters put at least two handlines into operation and the scene was placed under control within 50 minutes. All occupants made it safely out of the home. - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com
Loop Pkwy. MVA, Fire Chief Jared Siegelman operating at an MVA with car fire on the southbound Loop Parkway in point Lookout-Lido Fire District. - Fire News photo by Douglas Kniffin
Lakeview Basement Fire The Lakeview Fire Department operated at a house fire on Lafayette Avenue near Woodfield Road on April 10, 2020. The fire apparently started in the basement with a heavy smoke condition throughout the upper floors. Mutual aid companies also responded to the scene. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Fire News, May 2020, Page 33
Westbury House Fire Stopped
Late on the night of April 6, 2020, Westbury firefighters operated at a fire on Maple Avenue off Post Avenue. The fire began in or around a vehicle between a 2-1/2 story private dwelling with an attached two-story multiple dwelling behind it and a 2-1/2 story private dwelling. The main fire building had extension to the second floor and attic. The damage to the other structure appeared to be cosmetic with no extension to the interior. Also, on scene were units from
Hicksville, Jericho, Carle Place and East Meadow. The main body of fire was quickly knocked down and extension was kept to a minimum. Three handlines were stretched with at least two put into operation. All searches were negative, and the scene was placed under control within 40 minutes. Units were under the command of Westbury Chief of Department Kenny Gass. - Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com and John Ippolito, Jr.
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Duty to Service Evolving Roles in the Fire Service By Joseph McCarthy, Chaplain, New York State Association of Fire Chaplains When I was asked by my fire chief to assume the role of department chaplain, I had a general understanding of what the chaplain’s responsibilities were, and they were rather limited in scope: say an occasional prayer at dinners and meetings and lead the firematic services when we laid a firefighter to rest. I’ll admit that the first few firematic services for deceased members were challenging, as I was not known as a public speaker, but I managed to do OK. As time went on and I became more involved in chaplaincy, other opportunities for service to the fire community evolved. I became interested in how I could be more useful in my service to others in their time of need. An opportunity arose and I joined my county critical incident stress management (CISM) team, serving as a peer counselor, then as team leader. It soon became abundantly clear to me that there is an everincreasing need not only for CISM, but also for chaplains to become more involved in the caregiving process, as it relates to CISM. It became apparent to me that when first responders became emotional after witnessing traumatic events in the performance of their duties, they oftentimes derived a meaningful benefit through a conversation with a chaplain who was part of the CISM team, and who usually had significant fire and/or rescue experience under his/her belt. I consider it a solemn duty to help others get through some of the worst emotional trauma that they will ever encounter. We in the fire service have our hands full in responding to the everincreasing number of MVAs and rescue calls — boating incidents during the warmer months, deadly house fires, acts of terrorism, wildland brush fires, etc. There is never a shortage of difficult calls, when fire
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chaplains or those with a caring heart and listening ear are being called upon to aid and assist those in need. Most fire department chiefs and officers understand the value that we as chaplains bring to our departments, not only during times of traumatic events, but also to members who may be undergoing very difficult situations in their personal lives, whether due to challenging health conditions, the death of a family member, separation or divorce, financial hardship, or other causes. Effective chiefs take a comprehensive approach, staying active in monitoring the emotional well-being of their members, and recognizing those that may need assistance. A chaplain is oftentimes the first resource called upon by the chief(s) to confer with a member who may be hurting and to offer assistance and counsel. Frequently, it is nothing more than a chat over coffee. We don’t preach, we listen and advise, to the best of our abilities. Many times, all someone needs is a listening ear, and an understanding heart that may be able to bring comfort and solace to this member. We should all care enough to become involved. A chaplain who is also a member of a CISM team is further trained to administer and/or coordinate additional resources that usually help resolve or at least ameliorate the existing situation. We’re often called upon to aid and assist others outside of the fire service, often because we have earned a reputation as being a good listener, or just a person continued on page 45
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Possible Arson in Riverhead
On February 24, 2020, the Riverhead Fire Department, the Riverhead Ambulance and Riverhead Police Department responded to a fire at a vacant Toys-R-Us on Route 58. Upon arrival, responders discovered a fire inside the rear of the store near the loading docks. The fire was hot and large enough to activate the fire sprinklers in the building. The fire was deemed suspicious and was under investigation. - Fire News photos by www.LiHotShots.smugmug.com
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Cover Story
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USNS Comfort
On March 30, 2020, the United States Naval Ship USNS Comfort (T-AH-20), a Mercy-class ship, arrived in the New York City Harbor to the welcome of vessels and aviation units from multiple other armed branches, the NYPD, State Police, and fireboats from the FDNY, Jersey City and North Hudson Regional.
The ship began its journey from Virginia and docked at Pier 90, which is directly across from Weehawken (NJ), at around 1100. The mission of the ship was to help alleviate some of the stress on local hospitals as it takes in nonCOVID-19 patients during the epidemic. USNS Comfort was placed into service in 1987 and weighs 69,360 tons (fully laden), is 894 feet long, propelled by a steam turbine developing 24,500 shaft horsepower, and has a top speed of 20 mph. Comfort has 1,000 patient beds, 63 civilian (operational crew from the Military Sealift Command) and 956 Naval hospital staff, and 258 naval support staff. She has deployed off Kuwait during the Persian Gulf War (1990-91), served as a migrant processing center off Haiti in 1994, arrived in New York City on September 14, 2001, in answer to the terrorist attack, served again in the Persian Gulf for the Iraq War (2002-03), served in the Gulf after Hurricane Katrina in 2005, and has responded on several humanitarian missions in Central and Latin America, and Puerto Rico. She is scheduled to return to her homeport in Norfolk, Virginia by the time you read this. - Fire News photos by Brian Grogan and Mark Rosetti
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Heavy Fire on Arrival at South Hempstead Home
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The South Hempstead Fire Department battled a house fire on Westminster Road in the early morning of April 9, 2020. Units found heavy fire conditions on the first floor of the two-story home with fire auto exposing to the upper floor. Mutual aid companies were called to the scene to assist. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com and K2MPhotography.com
Franklin Sq.-Munson Handles House Fire
The Franklin Square and Munson Fire Department battled a basement fire in a private dwelling on Fendale Street early on April 6, 2020. Mutual aid departments also responded. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Heavy Fire in North Bellmore The North Bellmore Fire Department responded to a house fire on Frisch Place on March 15, 2020. First Assistant Chief Marschall found a two-story house well involved with fire showing from the front and extending to the second floor and attic and through the roof. Chief of Department Narell arrived and took command. Engine 655 stretched the first line, and the crew from East Meadow Engine 612 operated a second line. The crews from Ladders 657 and 658, laddered, searched and vented. The fire caused a section of the roof to collapse on the 1-4 corner. It took about an hour to bring the fire under control with one firefighter injured. Mutual aid came from East Meadow, Bellmore, North Merrick and Merrick. Units from East Meadow, Uniondale and Levittown stood by. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza and FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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EMS ACROSS THE ISLAND
Malverne, Lakeview Respond to Rollover
DWI MVA
The Woodmere Fire Department responded to an accident at Neptune Avenue and Broadway about 0125on April 14, 2020. The driver of a pickup went off the road and crashed through the front of the Woodmere Professional Building located on Broadway. Engine 354, and Laddesr 352 and 359 responded. Technical Rescue Teams from Rockville Centre, Elmont and Freeport were requested to shore up the affected portion of the building and remove the vehicle. The crew from Freeport 2172 used a come-along to remove the truck. The driver of the truck was taken to Nassau University Medical Center in East Meadow by Nassau County Police Ambulance and later charged with DWI. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Brookhaven MVA
The Malverne Fire Department was dispatched for an overturned vehicle on the Southern State Parkway on April 12, 2020. The accident was actually located between exits 17 and 18 in the Lakeview Fire District so both departments responded. Police and County EMS were also on the scene. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
On February 25, 2020, the Brookhaven Fire Department, South Country Ambulance and Suffolk Police responded to a two-car crash on Montauk Highway, between Smith and Horseblock Roads, at the entrance to Robinson Duck Farm Dog Park. The driver of one vehicle was trapped in her car and was cut free by firefighters. She was then transported to a local hospital via South Country Ambulance. A large amount of oil and other fluids were spilled, requiring an extensive clean-up.Montauk Highway was closed in both directions for the duration. - Fire News photo by LiHotShots.smugmug.com
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Car Hits House in Mastic Beach On March 29, 2020, the Mastic Beach Fire Department, along with Mastic Beach Ambulance and the SCPD 7th Precinct, responded to a two-car crash with one car crashing into a private dwelling at the corner of Neighborhood Road and Locust Drive just before 1930. The driver was transported to an area hospital. - Fire News photo by LiHotShots.smugmug.com
Overturn, Pin in Yaphank On April 3, 2020, the Ridge Fire Department, SCPD 7th Precicnt, SCPD Highway Patrol, SCPD ES-1, and Suffolk County Park Rangers responded for a car crash on the exit ramp leading to the westbound Long Island Expressway from the southbound William Floyd Parkway. A woman was trapped when her arm went through the cars sunroof and was pinned between the vehicles roof and the ground. The driver, a second passenger, and a dog in the SUV were able to remove themselves before first responders arrived, and were claiming minor injuries. The woman was freed and transported to a local hospital with undisclosed injuries. - Fire News photo by LiHotShots.smugmug.com
2 Injured in Brookhaven 2-Car Recently, the Brookhaven Fire Department along with South Country Ambulance were activated for an MVA with possible entrapment on Montauk Highway. Command units were met with two vehicles, with one car into an area of woods. Both drivers were self-extricated. The crew of Brookhaven Rescue 3 secured both vehicles and attended to fluids in the road. Both drivers were transported to a nearby hospital for injuries via South Country Ambulances. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
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MVA on the NSP in Plainview
The driver of an SUV was injured on February 6, 2020, at 1547, after colliding with another vehicle on the westbound Northern State Parkway by Manetto Hill Road in Plainview. The SUV left the parkway, drove through some wooded area and dropped several feet into a drainage ditch. The Syosset and Plainview Volunteer Fire Departments responded to the scene along with the NY State Police. The injured driver was taken to the hospital; the other driver was uninjured. - Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Duty to Service...continued from page 35 who is easy to talk to and confide in. This is truly a blessing, as it is a verification that we are effective in what we do. As chaplains, we tend to put the cares and concerns of others above our own, sometimes to our detriment. That said, we must be careful to strike a balance between our need and desire to help others in need, and our own personal, family, and business lives. It's very easy to let things get out of balance, especially in these evolving times where we are called on more frequently. Balance is the operative word, and if we can keep things relatively balanced, we will all be in a better position. If after some introspection you find that you can remove or reorder some components of your service in order to make room for more meaningful work, I heartily encourage you to contemplate doing so. Change is inevitable, so make it count. If you are active as a fire department chaplain or have a caring heart and a listening ear, and you believe you are well-balanced, please consider joining your local or county CISM team as a peer counselor. We can magnify our positive effect on our fellow members and be there for them, and for our neighboring departments, when duty calls. Chaplain Joe McCarthy is a member of the Southold Fire Department. He serves as deputy chief chaplain for the Suffolk County Fire Chiefs Council, is a team leader with the Suffolk County Emergency Services CISM Team, and serves as a chaplain and director-at-large with the New York State Association of Fire Chaplains, Inc.
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MVA in Yaphank
On April 3, 2020, a SCPD police officer on patrol discovered a vehicle crashed into a wooded area of the westbound portion of the Long Island Expressway just west of Sills Road. Units from SCPD Highway Patrol and the Yaphank Fire Department responded. There were reportedly eight people in the car, children and adults, who sustained various types of injuries, none life threatening. The injured were transported via fire department ambulance to a local hospital. - Fire News photos by LiHotShots.smugmug.com
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The Westhampton Beach FD Junior Program 2020 The Westhampton Beach Fire Department’s Junior Fire Company has been chosen by the National Volunteer Fire Council as the Program of the Year for 2019. The program stresses the importance of teamwork and helps the participants develop the leadership skills, confidence, and sense of responsibility that will prepare them for any career path they may wish to follow. The 2020 program has 28 members. As part of their public service requirements they participated in many community fundraisers including January’s Polar Plunge. They The junior program is run by Westhampton Beach firefighter Paul Hoyle. He is assisted by firefightpitched in at a community beach ers Bob Cooke, Chris Kampfer, and Walter Tracy, and ex-chiefs Dean Culver and Billy Dalton. clean-up, helped set up at the East Firefighter Hoyle’s wife Cody acts as an advisor/chaperone. - Fire News photo by John Neely End Hospice’s gala, taught fire education at the department’s open house, Company I: Marcus LeBrun, Allison Cooke, Reilly Mahon, Connor watched over the fire pit at the village festival, and at Christmas time Puch, Zoey Stokes, Malcom Lueck and Kevin Smith. baked cookies for a food pantry and widowers and senior members of the Company II: James Monserrate, Alex Garcia, Makayla Messina, fire department. The number of hours the juniors have dedicated to com- Finnegan Hayward, Michael Mignone, Cole Dawson, Jake Metcalf and munity service, activities, and training is 1,015. The members of the Jaimee Tambito. Westhampton Beach Fire Department Junior Program truly embody the Company III: Carter Padavan, Aaron LaDu, Carter Puch, Eoughan meaning of giving back. Hayward, Tristin Allen, Jayson Kampfer, Michelle Castro and Malone Smith. Westhampton Beach Junior Fire Department 2020 Roster: Head Advisor: Paul Hoyle. Advisors: Robert Cooke, Chris Kampfer Captain Ben Cooke; Lieutenant Natalie Runowski, Lieutenant Ethan and Cody Hoyle. - Fire News story provided Cooke and Lieutenant Alyvia Kappel.
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1 Injured in Hagerman MVA
On April 3, 2020, the Hagerman Fire Department and South Country Ambulance were activated for an MVA on Atlantic Avenue near McDonald Avenue. Upon arrival commanding units advised of nega-
tive entrapment. The crew of Rescue 4 cleaned up all fluids in the roadway. One patient was transported to a nearby hospital for injuries via a South Country Ambulance. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
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Franklin Sq.-Munson Handle MVA
The Franklin Square and Munson Fire Department was on the scene of a two-vehicle MVA on Franklin Avenue near Ferngate Drive on April 1, 2020. County police and a mutual aid ambulance from Elmont also responded. - Fire News photo by FirstOnscenePhotos.com
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Center Moriches Installation 2020
Center Moriches Fire Department recently held their installation dinner at the beautiful Giorgio’s in Baiting Hollow. Chief of the Department Ian Foley, First Assistant Chief William Schilling III and Second Assistant Chief Phil Masterson along with the company
line officers took the oath of office. Ex-Chief, ex-Commissioner Kenneth Johnson was honored for 70 years of dedicated service to the Center Moriches Fire Department. - Fire News photos by Ron Monteleone
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North Merrick Installation 2020
The North Merrick Fire Department held its 94th annual installation dinner on the night of March 14, 2020. Commissioner Paul Wilders was the master of ceremonies for the event, First Assistant Chief Chris Fasano led the salute to the flag, and Chaplain Eric Fasano gave the invocation. The department’s officers (ladies auxiliary, company line and chiefs) were installed into office. Several
years of service stars were distributed — most notably to Al ‘Turtle’ Boland for 50 years of service. Leading the department for the year ahead will be Chief of Department Robert Presti, Jr., First Assistant Chief Chris Fasano, and Second Assistant Chief Ronnie Higgins. - Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com
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Rocky Point-Sound Beach CoC Awards On February 25, 2020, the Rocky Point-Sound Beach Chamber of Commerce held their first annual Chamber Awards ceremony and dinner. Many local business owners and community members were honored for their contributions, including several members of the local fire departments. Chief of Department Adam Delumen, Third Assistant Chief Sean Martin, and 1st Lieutenant Jay Sasek of the Rocky Point Fire Department received the Joseph A. Edgar Service to Rocky Point Award. Chief of Department Michael Rosasco (represented by his father, Second Assistant Chief William Rosasco, Sr.) and First Assistant Chief Darran Handshaw of the Sound Beach Fire Department received the William Harrison Service to Sound Beach Award. - Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
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Lubcker Honored at Jericho Ceremony At a recent ceremony at the Jericho Volunteer Fire Department on North Broadway, ex-Chief Bob Lubcker, a 50year member of the department at his passing, was honored. Bob served as a Lieutenant, Captain, Deputy Chief and Chief of the Department. He was also department Treasurer and a Fire Commissioner. For many years he ran the department’s fund drive. He worked with many chiefs designing the fund drive brochures and mailing them out, three times each year. For these reasons it was decided to name the fund drive office in his honor. He was my friend, neighbor and was responsible for getting me to join the department. - Fire News story by ex-Chief Richard Schiraldi; photos by Kevin Imm
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APPLAUDING ALL RESPONDERS Seaford Hails First Responders The Seaford Fire Department sounded their sirens for all medical professionals and first responders. - Fire News photo by Jack Healy
COVID Help On April 6, 2020, FEMA sent 250 ambulances and 500 EMTs from across the country to help the city contend with the extremely high call volume during the coronavirus pandemic. Shown is a crew from Chicago with members of FDNY EMS Station 49 in Astoria, Queens. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Fire Departments Thanks NUMC Healthcare Workers Healthcare employees working at the Nassau University Medical Center (NUMC), who are members of the CSEA Local 830, got a touching surprise this week, when members of the East Meadow, Levittown, Wantagh and Seaford fire departments, gathered just outside the entrance to the hospital’s emergency department, to give them a rousing “Thank you!” A large banner was raised thanking doctors, nurses and hospital staff, engine sirens blared, fire department personnel cheered, and dozens of hospital workers came out to receive the well-deserved morale boost. “As president of the CSEA and a 46-year member of the East Meadow Fire Department, I felt great pride in seeing my department salute our healthcare workers at NUMC,” said Ron Gurrieri, president of CSEA 830, which represents the 3,500 union employees at NUMC
and the Nassau Health Care Corporation's nursing home facility. In the past month, hospital health care workers have also received dozens of food donations from restaurants and individuals. “Knowing that people outside the four walls of the hospital care about our employees keeps morale going,” Mr. Gurrieri said. “It gives the community a sense of pride to get involved in NUMC, a hospital that treats the under- and uninsured and anyone who comes through its doors.” - Fire News story by Carole Trottere
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APPLAUDING ALL RESPONDERS LI FDs on the Front Lines with COVID19 Long Island fire departments and ambulance squads have been called to transport numerous coronavirus patients to area hospitals in recent weeks. EMTs and firefighters have been taking precautions by wearing protective gear so they themselves do not become infected or bring the virus home to their families. Centerport Fire Department Rescue Squad Captain Larry Lawrence, pictured, disinfects the ambulance following a recent COVID-19 call. - Fire News story by Steve Silverman, photo courtesy Centerport FD
Covid-19 Call for Patchogue A Patchogue ambulance crew decons the stretcher, after transporting a patient, who had COVID-19 type symptoms, to Long Island Community Hospital. - Fire News photos by Bryan Lopez
Social Distancing at Centerport In what has now become a way of life, the Centerport Fire Department practices social distancing at an officer’s meeting held by Chief Richard Miltner to discuss COVID-19 response procedures and safety precautions. - Fire News photo courtesy Centerport FD
Heroes Cheering Heroes On the evening of April 5, 2020, several firefighters and EMTs from various fire departments within Nassau County's 2nd, 3rd and 4th Battalions gathered outside of Mount Sinai South Nassau Hospital in Oceanside to pay tribute to the doctors, nurses and other staff at the hospital that have been working non-stop during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many staff members were able to break away for a few minutes and come outside the main entrance to see all those gathered cheering them on. Several other staff members were headed in and out of the building during this time for their shift change. - Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com
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APPLAUDING ALL RESPONDERS Skilled Nursing Home Employees Honored Nursing home staff at Momentum at South Bay Rehabilitation and Nursing facility are on the frontlines protecting the community's most vulnerable population from the COVID-19 epidemic. Statistically, the COVID-19 virus is more likely to be fatal in the older population. But nursing home staff continue to put themselves on the frontlines, doing their jobs and taking care of those people who are most at risk. Visitors, including family members, have been banned from all nursing homes for weeks. But on April 11,2020, the East Islip Fire Department let them know that they were not forgotten. The fire department brought six fire trucks down to the nursing home, sirens blaring and fighterfighters cheering
in a show of support for the healthcare workers at the 160-bed facility on East Main Street in East Islip. “I am truly grateful for my staff for selflessly caring for our residents at this unprecedented time,” said Joe Aplustille, OTR/L, assistant administrator at Momentum. “To have this tremendous show of support from the East Islip Fire Department meant the world to all of us and it was exactly what the doctor ordered to raise our spirits and continue our frontline battle.” “If what we did brought five minutes of happiness to the healthcare workers there, it's worth it,” said Chief Andy Oliveri. “We just wanted to show our support and let them know that someone cares about the job they are doing.” - Fire News photos provided
10,000 KN95 Masks from Tunnel to Towers Delivered In mid-April, Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, NY-1), member of the bipartisan Congressional Coronavirus Task Force, secured a donation of 10,000 KN95 Masks from the Stephen Siller Tunnel To Towers Foundation to Suffolk County to be distributed to front-line workers during the ongoing coronavirus outbreak. The masks were distributed to local grocery store workers. “Today’s delivery of critical PPE for our local front-line workers is
EMS Works Through Covid-19 A member of South Country Ambulance sanitizes the ambulance with a pressurized cleaning agent after transporting a patient with COVID-19 symptoms to Long Island Community Hospital. Members of South Country Ambulance help another member remove special PPE before returning into the ambulance. - Fire News photos by Bryan Lopez
yet another example of every level of government working in a non-partisan fashion, and I look forward to continuing to work with County Executive Bellone to deliver for these local heroes,” said Congressman Zeldin. “The continued generosity of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation will help keep safe Long Islanders on the front lines of the battle against coronavirus, and I thank each and every one of them for their continued service to our local workforce.” - Fire News photos provided
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Huntington Chief Ties the Knot
Huntington Fire Chief Brian Keane and his bride Brynn Stepinowski were wed at the Crest Hollow Country Club. Chief Keane is a dispatcher for the Cold Spring Harbor Fire Department and Brynn is a nursery school teacher. Brynn’s dad Joseph Stepinowski is an ex-Chief of the Roslyn Rescue Fire Company. Best of luck to the newlyweds! - Fire News photo courtesy Huntington FD
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Shirley’s Lt. JG Phipps Working West Coast COVID Outbreak
Lieutenant Junior Grade Sara Phipps, from Shirley, sanitizes a medical supply drawer aboard the hospital ship USNS Mercy (TAH 19) on March 26, 2020. Mercy deployed in support of the nation’s COVID-19 response efforts, and will serve as a referral hospital for non-COVID-19 patients currently admitted to shorebased hospitals. This allows shore based hospitals to focus their efforts on COVID-19 cases. One of the Department of Defense’s missions is Defense Support of Civil Authorities. DoD is supporting the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the lead federal agency, as well as state, local and public health authorities in helping protect the health and safety of the American people. - U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ryan M. Breeden
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MOTLEY CREWS OF THE MONTH
Rev. Joseph Fitzgerald, Pastor of St. William the Abbot Parish, and Chaplin for the Seaford Fire Department with members of the Seaford FD and US Congressman Peter King after the First Responder’s Mass on March 8, 2020. - Fire News photo by Jack Healy
FASNY Committee Members at the 2020 FASNY EMS convention being held at the Selden Fire Department on January 25, 2020 (left to right): Dave Simmons, FASNY Director Diana Pfersick, Royer Pfersick, Scott McRobbie, Mike Quinn, and EMS Committee Chairman Meryl Montrose. - Fire News photo by Vinny Ammirati
Ex-Chiefs from the Holtsville Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Ex-Chiefs from the Holtsville Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Firefighters from the East Meadow Fire Department after a recent structure fire. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Firefighters from the Hagerman Fire Department after a recent run. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Firefighters from the Brookhaven Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Members of the West Hempstead Fire Department at a house fire in Lakeview on April 10, 2020. - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com
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Wantagh 2020 Installation
The 121st Annual Inspection and Installation Dinner of The Wantagh Fire Department was held on February 29, 2020, at the Crest Hollow Country Club. Kenneth S. Kelly was installed as Chief of Department for 2020, along with his Assistant Chiefs: First Assistant Chief Thomas P. Bloomfield, Second Assistant Leonard J. Mathewson and newlyelected Third Assistant Chief William L. Stevens. The highlight of the evening came when Chief Kelly was sworn in as Chief of Department after serving for six years as Assistant Chief. Chief Kelly, surrounded by his family, was sworn into office by exChief/Commissioner William K. Field IV. Chief Kelly thanked his wife and family for their support and then had his Chief of Department Badge pinned on his chest by his father, Kenneth Kelly, Sr., who is a former member of the department. Chief Kelly thanked his father for “teaching him how to be a leader.” Chief Kelly pledged to do everything in his power to “keep the membership safe” and ensure that “we continue to get the best equipment and training available.”
Ex-Chief Joseph C. Gross III was recognized for his dedicated leadership for the past eight years as an Assistant Chief and Chief of Department. During his address, Chief Gross stated that he was, “extremely thankful and proud that at the end of the day, everyone returned home safe” from their duty. Ex-Captain Al Rubinson was posthumously recognized, along with ex-Captain Al True, for their 50 years of service to the Wantagh Fire Department. Service Awards were presented to 44 members for anywhere from five to 50 years. In addition, the following members who received recognition at the Department’s annual award ceremony in November were recognized: Ex-Captains Bill VanLeer and Christopher Gross, (Chief’s Award) and ex-Captains John Licata and Robert MacKay, (Firefighter and EMS provider of the Year). - Fire News photos by Erin Bortell Photography; story by Kevin Regan, PIO
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Fire News, May 2020, Page 67
Up Close & Personal
Celebrating a Very Special Boy North Merrick First Assistant Chief Chris Fasano and his daughter Erin Fasano on the scene of a Meadowbrook Road house fire on March 7, 2020. - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com
On April 4, 2020, in Massapequa Park, on Atlantic Avenue the Nassau County Mounted Police, the Massapequa Fire Department and our friends and family held a car parade celebrating a very special boy. Our son, Jon (age one) is living with a rare congenital heart defect. At just one-week old, he overcame a lifesaving seven-hour open heart surgery. We had planned a huge celebration, for his "Heart-iversary" that was sadly canceled due to current events. - Fire News photo by Steve Takacs
A lieutenant from the Mastic Beach Fire Department at a recent structure fire. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Page 68, Fire News, May 2020
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Obituary
Freeport’s Chris Loche On the morning of April 2, 2020, a funeral was held for Freeport Truck Company ex-Captain Chris Loche who passed away unexpectedly on March 25, 2020, from COVID19. Unfortunately, with the pandemic still widespread across the area the funeral was scaled down with a memorial service planned for a later date. Members of Freeport Truck Company and the Freeport Fire Department were still able to line Church Street as the procession passed Truck Company quarters before going to the cemetery. Ex-Captain Loche, who passed away one day before his fiftieth birthday, was a member of the Freeport Fire Department for 25 years and upon resigning only a few years ago was granted associate membership. During his time in the department, Chris rose through the ranks and served as a well-respected Captain of the company, was the department’s Executive Secretary, and assisted in firefighting operations following the September 11 terrorist attacks. He was also instrumental in the success of the Dead-End Kids Drill Team — both when they were old fashioned and motorized. Outside of the fire service Chris was a loving father to his children Ryan and Kaitlyn. As a hockey coach he also inspired many kids, teaching them important lessons both on and off the ice. - Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com
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Fire News, May 2020, Page 69
Obituary
Massapequa’s Anthony Cardillo
On the morning of March 27, 2020, Anthony Cardillo, a 21-year-old member of Engine Company 1 of the Massapequa Fire Department, was working on his job with the Town of Oyster Bay Public Safety when he was involved in an MVA. Sadly, Anthony died.
He will truly be missed by his fellow members of the department. Anthony was a dedicated and hard-working young man who loved being a firefighter. - Fire News photos by Ed Tuffy, Massapequa FD
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Page 70, Fire News, May 2020
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Obituaries
Valley Stream’s Michael Field
On April 11, 2020, the Valley Stream Fire Department escorted the body of Rescue Company 1 ex-Captain Michael Field from Mount Sinai South Nassau Hospital in Oceanside to the Moore Funeral Home in Valley Stream. Field, a 33-year member of the department, passed away on April 8, 2020, from COVID-19 after transporting a patient with coronavirus in late March. Mike worked as an FDNY EMT for 20 years and assisted in the efforts at Ground Zero following the September 11 terrorist attacks. After retiring he went on to work for the Village of Valley Stream Department of Public Works. During his time with the Valley Stream Fire Department he was
incredibly active on both a company and department level and was well involved with the department’s junior firefighter program. Ex-Captain Field was posthumously promoted to the rank of Chief by Chief of Department Jason Croak. He leaves behind his three sons (Steven, Richie, and Jason who are all members of the department), wife Stacey, and the many family and friends who loved and knew him. A memorial service is planned for a later date. - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com
Patchogue’s John L. Barry, Jr.
The Patchogue Fire Department regrets to announce the passing of ex-Captain John L. Barry, Jr., on March 12, 2020. Jack was a 69year member and the senior ex-Captain of the Van Guard Hose Company 1. Jack joined the Van Guards in August 1951 and served as Captain from April 1965 to April 1966. Jack spent many years across the state as an official and was instrumental in configuring the electronic timing system. He made the transition from hand timing to electronic, first in Suffolk County. He was a member of the Forty
Thieves Drill Team and The Forty Thieves Drill Team Alumni, a life member of the Suffolk County and New York State Parade & Drill Team Captain’s Associations and Life Member and past-President of the Suffolk County Drill Officials Association. He was also a charter member of the Patchogue Fire Department Benevolent Association and a member of the Patchogue Fire Department Exempts Association. Jack is survived by his wife Maureen and children Jonilyn Connolly, Donna Gilmore,
Maureen McPhillips, Louise Barry, Danielle C. Barry, John T Barry and Timothy R. Barry, his sister Sandra Rignola, brothers Richard and Edward Barry. Firematic services were held on March 15, 2020, followed by a Mass at St. Francis DeSales with internment at Calverton National Cemetery on March 16, 2020. May he rest in peace. - Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam, story by ex-Chief Tom Newham
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Fire News, May 2020, Page 71
Obituary
Dix Hills’ Philip H. Tepe
The Dix Hills Fire Department mourned the loss of ex-Chief and Commissioner Philip H. Tepe, who passed away suddenly on March 20, 2020, at the age of 71. Chief Tepe was a very active and dedicated 52-year member of Engine Company Two, current Fire Commissioner and Suffolk County Deputy Coordinator for the Second Division. He served as Chief of the Department twice, first serving in the 1990s and returning to the Chief’s office in 2001 after the loss of Chief Terry Farrell on 9/11. Tepe was a proud U.S. Air Force veteran who served in Vietnam, worked for Grumman and then for the Suffolk County Department of Veterans Affairs, counseling veterans on services available for them. Tepe also served as commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1469. After retirement, he became a Fire Marshal for the Town of Huntington. As a Fire Coordinator, Tepe was an invaluable resource of knowledge to the chiefs on the fireground. The Tepe family has been a big part of the department since the 1950s, when Tepe’s dad, Philip A. Tepe, joined the department and later became Chief. Phil’s son Brett is a third-generation firefighter and is currently the Second Assistant Chief. Tragically, Tepe’s wife Toni passed away three weeks later after battling cancer. Tepe is survived by sons Philip Jr. and Brett, daughter Tiffany and grandchildren Blakely and Shane. Due to the Coronavirus crisis, funeral services were limited to family only, and the department is planning a memorial service to be held at a later date. - Fire News story and photos by Steve Silverman his passing has been comforting. We are all hurting together. We know everyone wishes they could do more and these crazy times have made A message from Assistant Chief Brett Tepe this experience extra hard for all of us. It hurts us that you all couldn't on the passing of his father, ex-Chief Phil Tepe be with us to say our final goodbyes. I give you my word we will have a To My Best Friend. Some people never met their hero, but I was proper send off and one fitting of his service when this all settles itself lucky enough to be raised by mine. I do not know where to begin and I out. We will honor him in due time and it will be a celebration of a decknow this will never end. The sudden loss of my father, Chief Phil Tepe, orated life that was fully lived. has truly turned my life upside down and given me a feeling of loss like The greatest passion in my father's life was the Dix Hills Fire I've never experienced before. The thing everyone needs to know about Department, His pride in this department was infectious and spread to my father was his genuine love and appreciation for all of you, our anyone to whom he became close. My father is proud of the legacy he friends and family. We have had many long talks about the great men left behind, and the only thing he would want from any of us is to carry and women in his life and there was a genuine pride and adoration he on in his honor, and be the best person that you can possibly be. took in each and every one of you, and I know you guys felt it. You are I am taking this day by day, but just wish to thank all of you for your some of his greatest friends and he took a sincere interest in being a support, My family appreciates all that has been said and done for us and mentor and friend to so many of you, because he truly cared for you. all of the love shown to us. We are far from out of this darkness of grief The outpouring of love and support my family has experienced since but we know we have the far reaching arms of all of you around us.
Page 72, Fire News, May 2020
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Car Through House in Hicksville
Two people were injured after the driver of a car lost control on Woodbury Road and Pollock Place in Hicksville on March 21, 2020 at 1737, and crashed through a house before overturning. Hicksville firefighters along with other emergency crews responded to the scene. The home was empty at the time and Fire Department Technical Rescue Teams from Bethpage and Massapequa were special called to respond and stabilize the home. - Fire News photos by ImmsterFirePhotos.com and Paul Mazza
Should We Test Our First Responders for Covid 19 ? I walked alongside the EMT crew, all of them ‘mostly’ covered with PPE, rolling the third resident for the day out on a ‘non-rebreather’ with a SAT less than 90 percent. As they hustled the Stryker through the living room of the assisted living facility, passing frightened onlookers, the captain yelled out “Thanks for the help, Doc, and, oh yeah, should we get tested?” I quickly responded, “Absolutely! But not because of this case. You guys should be testing as often as possible.” The issue of testing persons looking for evidence as to whether they have or already had Covid-19, caused by the SARS-COV-2 virus, will continue to be a major issue for as long as this pandemic is with us and long afterwards. And so many questions still need firmer answers, especially regarding testing; who, why, when, which symptoms, which test, or how many times? And what of the results? Do I isolate? Do I stay out of work? How long? There are no perfect answers to any of these hypotheticals as this pandemic is still evolving but the quicker we respond to the knowledge we’ve gained, the safer the world will be. We’ve learned a lot these past few weeks. For example, for better or worse, a large portion of the infected population doesn’t seem to get symptomatic or sick with this virus. They may not even know they have it. Good for them, not so good for the unknowing folks around them. Also, the majority of people who succumb are the frail elderly. Additionally, those that get the illness seem to have it for weeks and may be contagious for as long or maybe longer. And we continue to learn about the testing. Basically, there are two types of testing when it comes to viruses. The first test; RT-qPCR (let's call it PCR). This is the test most commonly
used at testing centers, hospitals, and walk-in centers. This test looks for actual pieces of the virus RNA and DNA in a patient’s body secretions, and uses a technique to render a result relatively quickly, less than 24 hours, once the reagent is processed. This test is best performed when looking for whether somebody actively has the disease whether they have symptoms or not. It has good sensitivity - that is, if it is positive, very likely the patient is sick with the Covid 19 virus. We learned that this PCR test has its limitations though, that a negative result is not necessarily indicative that a person never had the virus. In order to look for whether someone had the virus in the past, we have a different test; a Serology Test which looks for antibodies (the fighting proteins that the body makes in response to a virus or bacteria) as evidence that a person had the disease in the past. These IgG/IgM serological tests offer some advantages over PCR testing. The most significant is that the human antibodies, once detectable may persist for days to years and also may be indicative of immunity, meaning the person has a built-in mechanism to fight the virus should they encounter it again. Importantly though, serological testing has its own limitation, especially with this virus. Apparently, the human antibody response to SARS cov 2 is relatively slow and may not be detectable for as long as four days after the onset of symptoms or 10 days after infection. Also, different types of antibodies appear at different times after exposure. Therefore, IgG may not even be detectable long into the illness and the IGM antibodies may disappear quickly and levels vary between individuals. continues on next page
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Fire News, May 2020, Page 73
Fatality at Car versus House with Fire
On the evening of April 4, 2020, the Glenwood and Roslyn fire companies responded to a car versus house MVA with entrapment and fire at the corner of Glen Cove and Bryant Avenues. When firefighters arrived, they were met with a confirmed car into a house with fire on Plaza Road (in the Roslyn Fire District). Sea Cliff was designated the FAST and responded to the scene with Ladder 574 along with East Norwich who sent an engine. Two handlines were continued from previous page Relying on serologic testing too soon after infection can yield false negative results with regard to the patient’s immunity status. With a symptomatic patient actually experiencing the greatest viral replication, molecular test PCR, is the most useful for detecting the virus and determining a course of treatment. Another caveat: just because one’s IgG antibodies indicate that you may have had exposure to disease and made antibodies does not necessarily confer that you are immune. Remember this is a novel virus. We do not know how it aims and we do not know how the body reacts. One thing is for certain, as in any battle, knowledge is power. If we are going to win the current war against this disease - and hopefully this is the only wave we’ll have to endure for now - knowing whether our first responders carry some kind of added immunity can only be helpful indeed. Also knowing who is not immune will be helpful in trying to prevent further spread. So back to the question, “Should first responders get tested?” The answer, of course, as stated above is “absolutely.” But application of the appropriate test is imperative. It is important to determine where in the disease process the subject may be. Different tests and their results, that is PCR vs. IgM vs. IgG will give the answers if applied appropriately. It is important to understand how to interpret the results. This should be done in collaboration with your healthcare provider, both before and after testing. Stay safe. Dr. FOLAN is president and Partner of Healthsure, a multispecialty adult medicine practice in Central Suffolk County also founder of Fire+Rescue Medical, Industrial healthcare provider to dozens of fire districts and ambulance companies in Suffolk county.
stretched, and one line was put into operation resulting in a quick knockdown of the main body of fire. During the operation a TRT matrix was requested to respond to help shore up the structure. All occupants made it safely out of the home; however, the driver of the vehicle (the lone occupant) did not survive despite being quickly extricated. The cause of the accident was under investigation. - Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com