September 2022Volume L, No. 1 Never9/11ForgetPAIDPRSRTSTANDARDU.S.POSTAGEHICKSVILLENYPERMITNO.298 -Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez See story on page 6
Page 2, Fire News, September2022 FireNews.com
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Boat and Truck Fire in West Babylon Crews arrive to a 34-foot boat and a tractor cab on fire next to a structure. 1 Injured Hempsteadin Fire Crews respond to an electrical fire in a home from which one occupant was transferred to the hospital. In this issue... PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 4 Up Close &Personal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 46 Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 68 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 72 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 74 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . pages 76-77 Glen HouseCoveFire An initial call for a fire, goes immediately to two alarms on arrival. Rescues at Islip Terrace Blaze Awoman is saved, as are three dogs, from a burning home. See story on page 12 See story on page 17 See story on page 20 See story on page 77 It’s Racing Season Again See story on pages 54, 62 and 63 See story on page 24 Lindenhurst Juniors, North Bellmore and 5th Battalion Old Fashioned. Meadowmere Park Celebrates 75 Years Covid stopped last year’s celebration, so this 3rd Battalion crew held it in 2022. Letters to the Editor, byline articles, and columns represent the opinions of the writers and photographers and are not necessarily the views of the Fire News. We reserve the right to edit all of the above. We are not responsible for errors in advertisements beyond the cost of advertising space. Copy submitted is subject to editing for space requirements. The placing of an advertisement in this publication does not constitute endorsement. Contents are copyrighted. Editorial and advertising copy cannot be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Fire News is published monthly by Fire News Inc, with corporate offices at 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY11713.
Road,
- Dennis From the Editor’s Desk
- Fire News photos by Bryan Lopez Cover Story
LODD Island Park’s Michael Fischer
- Fire News story by Steve Silverman, photo courtesy Dix Hills FD
- Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com, Paul Mazza and TNT Photography
- Fire News story by the Islip Terrace FD; photo by Rich Stark FC-49
- Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
- Fire News photos by Paul Mazza and K2MPhotography.com - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber Fire News photo by Harry Loud
- Fire News photo by Jim Rugen
- Fire News photos by OvertheEdgePhotography.com
On June 18, 2022, at approximately1800, the Roslyn Rescue and Roslyn Highlands Fire Companies were dispatched to a reported house fire on Jefferson Avenue. With members of both companies out of district attending the Bayville Fire Company 100th Anniversary and 5th Battalion Parade, standby units Engine 937 (Hicksville) and Ladder403 (East Rockaway), who were covering Roslyn’s district, immediately responded alongside Rescue 1st Assistant Chief Collura. Units arrived to heavy fire from the rearof a two-story house. The fire was quickly raised to a second alarm and then a third forheavy fire on all floors of the house being fueled by high winds.
Page 18, Fire News, September2022 FireNews.com
Wind Driven Fire Hits 3-Alarms
Crews utilized at least fourhandlines to extinguish the fire on all floors. With the assistance of crews from Albertson, Inwood (acting Sea Cliff ladder), Oceanside (acting Glenwood engine), Westbury, Jericho, Mineola, Williston Park, East Williston, Carle Place, Garden City Park, Garden City, Bethpage and New Hyde Park, the fire was knocked down and placed undercontrol in approximately 75 minutes with extensive overhaul conducted by crews. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation.
- Fire News photos by OvertheEdgePhotography.com and FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Fire in the Walls in Westbury
- Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com
In the early morning hours of July 6, 2022, the Westbury Fire Department operated at the scene of a working fire on Talbot Drive off Brush Hollow Road. Firefighters put one handline into operation fora fire in the walls of a two-story split-level private dwelling. Carle Place Engine 917 and Hicksville Ladder931 responded while Mineola Ladder168 was among the units standing by for Westbury. All occupants made it safely out of the residence and the cause of the fire was underinvestigation. Westbury First Assistant Chief Stewart had command of the incident.
Huntington ManorHouse Fire
On July 4, 2022, at approximately 0030, the Huntington ManorFire Department was dispatched to a house fire with possible people trapped on Wyoming Avenue. Captain Colonna arrived to heavy fire on the first and third floors of a split-level house and quickly became aware of people still inside. Without any protective equipment, he entered the house, located two occupants whom he directed towards the doorand then located and removed a third occupant who had collapsed. Quint 2-4-6 made an initial push but, crews transitioned to an exteriorattack, stretching at least fourlines and utilizing the ladder’s masterstream to extinguish the fire. With the assistance of crews from Greenlawn, Huntington, Melville and Dix Hills, the main body of fire was knocked down in approximately 45 minutes with extensive overhaul conducted required. All operations were underthe direction of Chief of Department Brady. - Fire News photo by OverTheEdgePhotography.com
FireNews.com Fire News, September2022, Page 19
The West Babylon Fire Department was alerted fora smoke investigation in the vicinity of Albin Avenue at about 1325 on June 28, 2022. Town of Babylon Fire Marshal Leeb found a 34-foot boat and tractor cab burning next to a building on Thorburn Avenue. Engine crews stretched and operated two lines, and 1-9-4 used its masterstreams. The fire was knocked down and brought undercontrol within 30 minutes. Mutual aid came from Lindenhurst and North Lindenhurst. The Wyandanch-Wheatley Heights Ambulance Corps was also requested to the scene fortheirrehab equipment. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Page 20, Fire News, September2022 FireNews.com “Hoffman: three generations in flooring” 2 Commerce Dr., Farmingdale, NY 11735 Floor CorporationCovering 631-454-8011 • 718-352-0460 We 350InstalledhaveoverApparatusRoomsJustinthelast30Years We install all types of Epoxy and other poured seamless systems that will solve your flooring problems. We Install All Types Of Poured Seamless Floors – Epoxies, Urethanes, Acrylics, Self Levelers & Flexible Systems State of the Art Materials that are crack resistant, high shine & slip resistant installed by our factory trained crews. Epoxies, Urethane Mortars, Acrylics, VOC compliant, odorless resins. Highest performing top-coats on the market. Make your old resin floors new again. We repair and refurbish exciting Resin Floors to make them new again. www.HoffmanFloorCovering.com
Boat and Truck Fire in West Babylon
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FireNews.com Fire News, September2022, Page 21
Yaphank Truck Fire
The Yaphank Fire Department went to work on a truck fire at the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office Civil Enforcement Section on Yaphank Avenue. Firefighters quickly knocked down the fire. Fire photos by Ron Monteleone
News
East
In the early afternoon of July 2, 2022, the Massapequa Fire Department responded to LamplighterLane forreported smoke from a vacant apartment. Units arrived to smoke showing from the second floorof a vacant apartment. Afterfurtherinvestigation, fire was found in the living room area. Engine 6314 and Truck 6326 arrived. Mutual aid was provided by Amityville and South Farmingdale. Units operated underthe command of Chief of Department Monjardo.
- Fire News photos by TNTPhotography.com and Paul Mazza
In the evening of July 6, 2022, the East Islip Fire Department responded to a home on Keswick Drive. The first chief on scene called the working fire foran attic fire. The fire was contained to the attic with two lines put into operation. Mutual aid came from Islip, Islip Terrace and West Sayville. Additionally, Exchange Ambulance of the Islips was on scene forEMS standby. - Fire News photo by Richard Stark
LamplighterLane Fire
Fire
On June 30, 2022, at 1009, the East Meadow Fire Department was alerted to a garage fire on Highview Avenue. Ladder617 was immediately followed by all othercompanies manning units 615, 611, 614, 612, 619, and 616. On arrival, fire was churning out of the front of the garage, and was threatening the homes on both sides. Within 15 minutes of arrival all visible fire had been knocked down, as firefighters cautiously soaked down the remaining embers. The vinyl siding on one neighboring home suffered minordamage as a result of the intense heat. In all, 48 East Meadow volunteers, including 14 exchiefs, responded to the fire. Standby mutual aid was supplied by Westbury, Levittown and Wantagh (Ambulance). One firefightersuffered a minorinjury and was treated at the scene. - Fire News photo by John Morris
East Islip Attic Fire
DetachedMeadowGarage
Page 22, Fire News, September2022 FireNews.com
HempsteadinFire
The Hauppauge Fire Department and Suffolk Police responded to a carfire on Veterans Memorial Highway in Commack on July 7, 2022, at 1335. Aluxury coupe was fully engulfed in flames when firefighters and police arrived. The driverwas able to safely evacuate the vehicle without injury. Police shut down eastbound traffic at Wyandanch Boulevard forover30 minutes until the fire was extinguished.
- Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
On June 20, 2022, just after1145, the Hempstead Fire Department was dispatched fora report of an electrical fire on Crowell Street. Units arrived to fire on the second floor. Southside Hose 2 and Truck 1 worked to locate and extinguish the main body of fire. With the assistance of crews from West Hempstead and South Hempstead, the fire was knocked down and placed undercontrol in approximately 30 minutes underthe direction of Chief of Department Sandas. One occupant of the house was transported to a local hospital in stable condition.
Hauppauge CarFire
Page 24, Fire News, September2022 FireNews.com 1 Injured
- Fire News photos by OverTheEdgePhotography.com and FirstOnScenePhotos.com
FireNews.com Fire News, September2022, Page 25
Page 26, Fire News, September2022 FireNews.com
- Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
The Uniondale Fire Department responded to a reported fire in the attic of a private dwelling on Pembroke Street on June 25, 2022. The smoky blaze was extinguished by the first-due engine company.
Quick Stop in Uniondale
The Suffolk County Decon Strike Team was recently requested by the Islip Town HazMat Team to assist with the identification and mitigation of unknown liquids in drums. In total, 16 drums of various sizes were identified. 3-HazMat-1 Mike Allen made the request to the County formore overpack and salvage drums to assist with the mitigation. Upon arrival, Suffolk Decon Strike Team members assisted with the mitigation and the classification of the unknown liquids utilizing the Heinz 5 Step Method kit. Once classified and mitigated, a third-party environmental company was used to remove the liquids. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation arrived on scene and oversaw the cleanup of the site. - Fire News photo by Peter Guaraldi
HazMat Team Response In Islip
Valley Stream, FDNY Work School Bus Fires
FireNews.com Fire News, September2022, Page 27
At 0830 on July 8, 2022, Nassau County Fire CommunicationsFirecom notified the Valley Stream VolunteerFire Department of multiple school buses on fire in the rearof the Green Acres Common's. Upon arrival, a fully involved school bus against a fence was found. Engine 4 arrived and stretched a hose line, backed up by Engine 2 while Truck 1 performed overhaul. During the incident, due to the proximity to the borderof Queens, the FDNYresponded to Queens side and Engine 314 operated a hose line on the wooden fence. Asecond school bus 50 feet away was found smoldering, and FDNYEngine 311 and TowerLadder158 alongside Valley Stream volunteers operated to extinguish the second bus. Chief of Department Scanlon was the incident commanderand Nassau County Fire Marshal's office is investigating the incident. Both departments worked togetherand operated for approximately one hour. - Fire News photo courtesy Valley Stream FD
Page 28, Fire News, September2022 FireNews.com 1
Burned, 1 Dead at N. Babylon BlazeThe
North Babylon Fire Company was alerted fora house fire with a reported person trapped, on Little East Neck Road about 0330 on June 14, 2022. Chief of Department Cullen was given information that Suffolk County Police were on scene confirming a person trapped on the second floorand that there was an additional burn victim. Engine 1-8-4 and Ladder1-8-6 arrived. The fire was located in a second-floorbedroom where the trapped person was reported to be. Engine crews stretched and operated two lines as truck crews tried to make entry to the room. An attempt to reach the victim was also made via ground ladderon the exposure 3 side of the house. As crews were advancing to the room, numerous oxygen bottles exploded from inside the room. The fire was knocked down and brought undercontrol within 40 minutes. Afterthe fire was knocked down and the room was searched, a 71-year-old female was found deceased. The othervictim was the woman’s daughterwho was taken to a local hospital with smoke inhalation and minorburns. Asecond family who rents the otherpart of the house escaped uninjured. Mutual aid came from West Babylon, East Farmingdale, Wyandanch-Wheatley Heights Ambulance Corps, North Lindenhurst and West Islip. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
Page 30, Fire News, September2022
LevittownaidcontrolknockedsearchedandandThehousepulledarrivedChiefsfloor.mentgation,mentarrivedFirstStreetalertedTheHouseBethpageFireNews.comFireBethpageFireDepartmentwasforahousefireonWilfordabout1540onJuly15,2022.AssistantChiefDeBobestosmokeshowingfrombase-windows.Uponfurtherinvesti-firewasfoundinthebase-andwallsrisingtothefirstSecondandThirdAssistantCastellanoandFitzwilliamshortlyafter.Engine9077ahydrantjustbeforetheandputthelineintooperation.crewfromEngine905stretchedoperatedasecondline.Ladders34setupinfrontofthehouse,andvented.Thefirewasdownandbroughtunderinabout25minutes.MutualcamefromFarmingdale,andHicksville.
Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
IslipFireBasementExtends
The East Farmingdale VolunteerFire Company was recently alerted to a commercial structure fire at Omni Recycling on Alder Street. The first arriving units were met with a heavy fire load. Towerladders surrounded the building, putting large amounts of wateron the fire. Suffolk County FRES mobile command unit and drone team responded. All operations were underthe command of East Farmingdale Chief Duane Welliver. Mutual aid came from Bethpage, Farmingdale, Lindenhurst, Melville, North Amityville; North Lindenhurst; West Babylon,Wyandanch-Wheatley Heights Ambulance and Wyandanch. - Fire News story and photo by Suffolk County Fire Rescue Deputy Coordinators FC-33 John Ippolito and FC-61 Paul Miller Recycling Blaze in East Farmingdale
The Islip Fire Department was alerted to a report of a residential structure fire on Moffitt Boulevard. First Assistant Chief Gunst arrived to a single-story, private dwelling, with heavy smoke showing. Islip crews were met with heavy fire conditions in the basement of the home with extension up the interiorstairwell onto the first floor. Mutual aid was provided by Bayshore, East Islip, Brentwood, as well as the Exchange Ambulance of the Islips, Bay Shore Brightwaters Rescue Ambulance and Central Islip Hauppauge VolunteerAmbulance. The occupants of the home were able to self-evacuate priorto arrival and there were no injuries. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation by the Suffolk County Police Department’s Arson Squad and the Town of Islip Fire Marshal’s office. - Fire News photo by Rich Stark FC-49
FireNews.com Fire News, September2022, Page 31
Ladder2, led by Lieutenant Fratello, assisted with search, ventilation and overhaul. Interior operations were coordinated by 2nd Assistant Chief Bill Stevens and 3rd Assistant Chief Bill Van Leer. Medical Command was established by EMS Captain Lincke with Rescues 2 and 5 as well as the Rehab Unit on scene. The occupants of the home were assisted from the home by police and were taken to an area hospital by a Nassau County Police Ambulance to be treated forburns and smoke inhalation. The fire, which caused extensive damage to the home, was brought undercontrol in about 45 minutes. Mutual aid came from Bethpage, Levittown, Seaford, Massapequa, East Meadow, North Bellmore and Merrick - Fire News story by Kevin Regan, PIO; photos by K2M Photography, TNT Photography and Paul Mazza
Page 32, Fire News, September2022 FireNews.com
WantaghHouseFireDrawsaCrowd
Shortly before 0730 on July 26, 2022, Wantagh
Fire Department DispatcherDenis McCann received several calls reporting a house fire on Wolkow Avenue in Seaford, with the possibility of occupants inside. Aheavy column of smoke was visible from a distance and 2nd Assistant Chief Bill Stevens transmitted a Signal 10. First Assistant Chief Leonard Mathewson arrived moments laterand assumed command. He reported heavy fire throughout the two-story house. Engine 7, led by ex-Captain Tom Brandon, began to stretch a hoseline to flames, which was completely engulfing the front porch and rooms in the front of the house, and was travelling rapidly to the second floor. Ladder1, led by Captain Errico, commenced search operations. Engine 4, with Captain Tom Melendez in charge, provided a watersupply from a nearby hydrant to Engine 7 and stretched a second hose line. Captain Steve Burke directed a crew from Engine 1, stretching a third line from Engine 7 and began to attack otherpockets of fire.
- Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
The North Amityville Fire Company was alerted foran automatic alarm on Adams Boulevard about 0640 on July 24, 2022. Crews forced entry, and were met with a heavy smoke condition. East Farmingdale, South Farmingdale, Amityville, Farmingdale, Copiague and West Babylon responded. As crews searched, several 25-gallon barrels full of rags were found burning. The fire was under control within an hourwith no reported injuries. Additional mutual aid was provided by the Wyandanch-Wheatley Heights Ambulance Corps rehab vehicle. The Town of Babylon Fire Marshal was requested to the scene to investigate the cause of the fire.
On the morning of July 20, 2022, the Levittown Fire Department was dispatched to a report of a house fire on Redpoll Lane off WoodpeckerLane. Those first to arrive on scene were met with a fire in the attached garage of a 1-1/2story private dwelling. Levittown Engine 623 arrived and stretched two handlines. Firefighters had the fire quickly knocked down and kept it from extending into the residence. All occupants made it safely out of the home and the cause of the fire was underinvestigation. Levittown Chief of Department Herold [6200] had command of the incident. - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com
About 50 firefighters were on the scene with 10 trucks and had the fire controlled within an hour, underthe command of Assistant Chief Sean Schwier assisted by Deputy Chiefs Paul Smith and Matt Getter. Suffolk Fire-Rescue Coordinators were also on the scene providing assistance. There were no injuries reported and the fire was underinvestigation by the Lloyd HarborPolice Department and the Suffolk Police Arson Squad. - Fire News story and photo by Steve Silverman
North WarehouseAmityvilleFire
Garbage Truck Fire in Glen Cove
Page 34, Fire News, September2022 FireNews.com
The Huntington Fire Department was activated fora house fire on Gerry Lane in Lloyd Harboron July 18, 2022, at about 1810. Units arrived to find a working fire and requested assistance from the Cold Spring Harbor, Huntington Manor, Greenlawn, Centerport, Halesite and Melville. EMS support was provided by the Huntington Community First Aid Squad. Crews made an aggressive attack on the fire, which appeared to have started in the garage and storage area on the lowerlevel and extended to the second floor. Firefighters were challenged by limited access into the area and hot weatherconditions.
Huntington Battles Blaze in Lloyd Harbor
Quick Stop in Levittown
On June 7, 2022, the Glenwood Fire Company was dispatched to a garbage truck on fire on Glen Cove Avenue in front of North Shore High School. Numerous Glenwood units were quickly on scene and found a fire in the rearof the truck mostly knocked down by a fire extinguisher. The truck was moved down the road to Tappan Beach to dump the truck. Once the truck was dumped, a line was stretched off Quint 533 to completely extinguish the fire. All operations were underthe direction of 1st Assistant Chief Greig. - Fire News photo by OvertheEdgePhotography.com
FireNews.com Fire News, September2022, Page 35
On July 27, 2022, the Lakeland Fire Department was activated fora propane leak on Wildwood Road. Upon furtherinvestigation crews found a 100-pound propane cylinderleaking. The Town of Islip HazMat Team was activated to burn off the cylinder.
Propane Leak in Islip Town
Page 36, Fire News, September2022 FireNews.com
- Fire News photo by Ryan DiPrima
The Suffolk County Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services’drone team was activated fora shark watch recently at Smith Point County Park. The team assisted Suffolk County Parks aftera lifeguard was injured in a shark-related incident during a training exercise. Working in cooperation with the Parks Department and lifeguards on PWCs and paddleboards, the team provided continuous monitoring of the surf line. The team’s live streaming ability allowed parks officials, police and lifeguards to view real time video from the drone operation. The team is a multi-divisional resource available forcallout from Suffolk County FRES and consists of staff from the County’s Fire Marshal’s Office, Information Technology Department, Office of Emergency Management and FRES Communications personnel. - Fire News photo by Peter Guaraldi, PIO at SCFRES
Rear-Enderin Amityville
The Amityville Fire Department, Amityville Police Department, an ambulance from the North Amityville Fire Company and Suffolk County Police responded to an accident at West Smith Street and Route 110 just after0400 on July 15, 2022. The driverof an SUVrearended a box truck stopped at a traffic light. Originally reported to be an entrapment, units arrived and found that the driverof the SUVhad climbed out of the vehicle’s driver-side window and had serious injuries. The drivers of both were taken to Good Samaritan Hospital. The crews from 1-1-2 and 1-1-15 used a boosterline to extinguish a small engine compartment fire that had started and handled a large fluid leak from the SUV. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Shark Lookout by Drone EMS ACROSS THE ISLAND
FireNews.com Fire News, September2022, Page 37
- Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Page 38, Fire News, September2022 FireNews.com
1 Fatal at West Babylon MVA
The West Babylon Fire Department was alerted foran MVAwith reported overturn and entrapment at Route 109 and Herzel Boulevard about 1620 on June 13, 2022. Apickup traveling east on Route 109, collided with an SUVthat was traveling west on 109 and attempting to turn left on Herzel Boulevard. The collision caused the SUVto land on its roof. First Assistant Chief Kamalic, Engine 1-9-2, Heavy Rescue 1-9-15, Ambulance 1-9-7 and Fire Police 1-9-5 responded along with North Lindenhurst Ambulance 1-11-6. The driverof the SUVwas removed from the vehicle priorto the fire department’s arrival. Both drivers were taken to Good Samaritan Hospital. The driverof the SUVwas pronounced dead a time later; the driverof the pickup suffered non-life-threatening injuries.
Really? Where OurNew House is Gonna’Be? In the early morning hours of July 22, 2022, the Mineola Fire Department operated at the scene of an MVAwith overturn on Jericho Turnpike between Willis Avenue and Mineola Boulevard. The lone vehicle involved in the accident crashed through a construction site forthe new Mineola Fire Department headquarters before overturning. The driver, the only occupant inside the vehicle, was not trapped orseriously injured. All department units were underthe command of Mineola First Assistant Chief Magalhaes.
- Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com
FireNews.com Fire News, September2022, Page 39
Page 40, Fire News, September2022 FireNews.com Carvs. Truck with EntrapmentAt0141onJune30, 2022, the Nesconset Fire Department responded to an reopen.downremovesionSuffolkrequestedatFrankatedextricateworkedRescuewhilewentAmbulanceerstrappedjectwithInitialtractortrailerwithMVAcarversusentrapment.arrivingunitsfoundonesub-severeinjuriesheavilyintheirvehicle.EMSwork-fromFirstResponder4-4-80and4-4-6Aimmediatelytoworktostabilizethepatient,firefightersfromHeavy4-4-9andEngine4-4-2tocutopenthevehicleandthepatient.Allunitsoper-underthecommandofChiefRagonaandclearedthescene0224.At0624thedepartmentwasbacktothescenebytheCountyPoliceattheconclu-oftheiraccidentinvestigationtodebrisandplaceabsorbenttomaketheroadsafeto - Fire News photo by Michael Wichtendahl
- Fire News photos by OvertheEdgePhotography.com
Roslyn 2- CarMVA
FireNews.com Fire News, September2022, Page 41
On June 12, 2022, at just before 2230, the Roslyn Rescue and Roslyn Highlands Fire Companies were dispatched to an MVA with reported overturn and entrapment at the intersection of Mineola Avenue and Powerhouse Road. Highlands Lieutenant Azoulay and Highland’s 1st Assistant Chief Ungerboth quickly arrived and confirmed a two-carMVAwith one overturned and all occupants out of the vehicles. Crews from both companies worked to secure both vehicles while the occupant of one of the vehicles was evaluated by EMS. The scene was quickly placed undercontrol with units released from the scene in approximately 20 minutes.
Page 42, Fire News, September2022 FireNews.com
SinglewithCarHead-onTree
- Fire News photo by Harry Loud
The Wyandanch Fire Company, Wyandanch-Wheatley Heights Ambulance Corps. and Suffolk County Police responded to an MVAat Wyandanch Avenue and Mount Avenue in the early morning of June 12, 2022. The driverof a mid-size carwent off the road and struck a tree head-on causing the vehicle to catch fire. The driverwas able to exit the vehicle before it was engulfed. Chief of Department Brown and First Assistant Chief G. Vaccaro responded along with apparatus. The driverwas taken to Good Samaritan Hospital by ambulance. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Massapequa Park MVA
On the afternoon of June 18, 2022, Massapequa Ambulance 637 and Ladder632 responded to a twocarMVAon Clark Avenue at Pacific Street in Massapequa Park. Assistant Chief Zimmerman was in charge at the scene. NCPD Ambulance transported the passengerand 637 transported the driverof one vehicle to a local hospital.
- Fire News photo by OvertheEdgePhotography.com
- Fire News photo by Ed Tuffy Massapequa FD PIO
East CarintoMeadowBuilding
On May 1, 2022, at approximately 1520, the East Meadow Fire Department was dispatched to a report of a carinto a building on Autumn Drive. Units quickly arrived to find a carthrough a fence and into the front wall of a condo. With the damage to the structure, North Bellmore was requested fortheirTechnical Rescue Team to stabilize the structure. Rescue 653 and 6512 arrived on scene and worked with the crews from East Meadow to shore the overhang of the structure. Aftershoring the structure, units were released from the scene in approximately 75 minutes. The driverof the auto was treated on scene. All operations were underthe direction of East Meadow Chief of Department Cheswick.
OverturnWantagh
Wantagh firefighters secured an overturned carafterit struck a parked car and flipped at around 1600 on July 19, 2022 on Wheelbarrow Lane in Wantagh. There were no injuries and members of Squad 1 flipped the vehicle and got it back to the curb.
Members of the Islip Fire Department and East Islip Second Assistant Chief at a fire on Saxon Avenue in Islip on June 23, 2022.
Page 44, Fire News, September2022 FireNews.com
Members of Elmont LadderCompany 2 at a Valley Stream Cornhole Tournament on August 7, 2022. - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com
Members of West Babylon Fire Department taking a breather at a recent commercial fire in East Farmingdale. - Fire News photo by OverTheEdgePhotography.com
Members of the first-due ladderfrom East Rockaway at a recent fire in Roslyn. - Fire News photo by OverTheEdgePhotography.com
Dix Hills Fire Department Engine crew 2-8-14 at the scene of a house fire on Grand Boulevard in DeerPark on July 17, 2022.
MONTH
Members of the Southampton Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
Members of the Inwood Fire Department on mutual aid to Roslyn while standing by in Sea Cliff forthe 5th Battalion Parade on June 18, 2022. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
- Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
- Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
MOTLEY CREWS OF THE
Members of Farmingdale Fire Department at a recent working fire in East Farmingdale. - Fire News photo by OverTheEdgePhotography.com
Farmingdale Fire Department Firefighter Manny Alvarez operating on the scene of a recent Signal 10 in South Farmingdale. - Fire News photo by TNTPhotography.com
The Red Knights MC NY26 welcome its newest memberAbdul Khan. Abdul is a memberwith the Selden Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone Three ex-chiefs from Uniondale at a recent working fire in Roosevelt. - Fire News photo OverTheEdgePhotography.comby
Huntington ManorGrand Marshal
Ridge Fire Department 1st Assistant Chief Kevin Leedham. - Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
The Huntington ManorFire Department honored William ‘Billy’Bicknese as the Grand Marshal at theirannual parade and fair. Bicknese recently celebrated 50 years of dedicated service to the department, and was elevated to the rank of Honorary Chief. Bicknese is pictured at the top in Manor’s antique Mack pumperdriven by exChief Fred Steenson, Jr. Pictured below are Third Assistant Chief Scott Cloonan, First Assistant Chief Jim Glidden, Chief Chuck Brady, and Second Assistant Chief Brian Christen. - Fire News story by Steve Silverman; photo courtesy Huntington Manor FD
Page 46, Fire News, September2022 FireNews.com
North Sea Fire Department Chief Ryan White and 2nd Assistant Chief Lance Aldrich. - Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone Up Close & Personal
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The Annual Independence Day Parade was held in Eaton’s Neck and sponsored by the Eaton’s Neck Fire Department and Property Owners of Eaton’s Neck Beach. The July 4th tradition featured many local fire departments, veterans’organizations, US Coast Guard, local residents with patriotic-themed floats and even a marching duck. Afterthe parade which also had friendly waterfights between firefighters and local residents, a ceremony was held to honorourcountry’s military serving to protect our freedom. The community was invited back to the Eaton’s Neck firehouse fora traditional barbecue of hot dogs and hamburgers.
- Fire News story and photos by Steve Silverman
Eaton’s Neck Independence Day Parade
- Fire News photo by Cody Hoyle, Westhampton Beach FD
Westhampton Beach Juniors Help at Hospice Gala
The Melville Fire Department celebrated their 75th anniversary of service to the community with a parade featuring local fire departments and classic cars. The parade began at Melville headquarters on Sweet Hollow Road and ended at Substation 3 on Old Country Road, where the community was invited forthe gala celebration with live music by the SouthBound Band, food and drinks, and fun activities forthe family. Ex-Chief Al Silvestri, a 70-yearveteran of the department, was the Grand Marshal and led the parade.
The East End Hospice committee and the Westhampton Beach JuniorFire Department were busy setting up forthe Hospice Gala on June 25, 2022. The gala has been absent forthe last two years due to Covid but was back in full swing this year. The gala’s goal is to raise money to help families dealing with cancer. The Juniors have taken part in this event in prioryears and find it very rewarding to give back to the community.
75th Anniversary
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Melville FD
- Fire News photos by Steve Silverman
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On June 14, 2022, Islip Town firefighters were invited to the Islip Town Hall for a ceremony to honorand recognize those firefighters who have served 50-plus years in the volunteerfire service from 2020 to present. Town of Islip SupervisorAngie Carpenterand Town Council members presented a proclamation to those members in attendance. (Bottom right, left to right):
Councilman O’Connor, ex-Chief Robert Strauss, Honorary Chief James Weigel, ex-Chief Thomas Riedel and SupervisorCarpenter. (Top right): exChief Robert Strauss, ex-Chief Thomas Riedel and Honorary Chief James Weigel. - Fire News photos by Sue Orlando, PIO
Recognized50-YearMenbyIslip Town
They were also given the opportunity once again to train in the Flashover simulator and experienced the live actual fire behavior lab.
The camp program was designed between the Nassau County Junior Firefighters Association Board of Directors, Academy Staff Chief Hughes, and Chief Wilders to make sure they received as close to the real thing as possible. The week-long camp was a combination of classroom and hands-on experience.From0900 to 1600 for five straight days they received the most intense training that could be offered. By the end of the camp, they came close to being exposed to a major amount of fire training. At the end of the camp, they were joined by family, friends, Chief Hughes, Chief Wilders and two of the instructors from the week, Chiefs Marra and Maloney of the FSA, who presented all 45 campers their graduation certificates. It gave the parents a first hand look at where their kids were training all week.
For the seventh year, during the week of July 25, 2022, 45 Juniors and Explorers from 21 different fire companies participated in the Nassau County Juniors Fire Camp “Fahrenheit 516.” The camp was designed to give kids a first-hand, hands-on experience with the same training that the probies go through including mask confidence, search and rescue, 2nd story bailout, ground ladders, hydraulic extrication, aerial ladders, Class A& B fire extinguisher drills, two-mnute drills, ropes, forcible entry, live car, and storefront fires.
Nassau County Juniors Participate at Fire Camp ‘Fahrenheit 516’
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The NCJFAboard and the FSAstaff will continue to make changes and move things around as necessary to provide the best training for this program. The overall camp was put together with a lot of different hands; we would like to thank the Fire Service Academy, VEEB Board, Nassau County Fire Departments and Firematic organizations that helped with EMS standbys, supplying trucks and whatever else was needed, not only for the camp, but for their constant support for the Juniors and Explorers in Nassau County. We would like to especially thank sponsors FASNY, State Senator John Brooks, Catholic Health System, Fireground Technologies (Bail-Out), and the International Fire Chiefs Association. If not for their continuous and generous support this camp would not have been able to be such a Watchsuccess.forapplications for 2023 camp on our website beginning in the spring. The NCJFAwill be expanding their hands-on training with single day training sessions beginning October 6, 2022, with car fires and modified hose. Contact your advisors to sign up. To look at what went on at the camp this year visit our website at www.ncjfa.org. Click on Camp Fahrenheit. You can also visit YouTube and search “Nassau Juniors Camp Fahrenheit 2022” and follow us on Facebook, Instagram @ Nassau Juniors. Fire News story by Jerry Presta; photos by Tim Ossenfort
Page 54, Fire News, September2022 FireNews.com Lindenhurst Junior Invitational Drill June 5, PlaceTeamPoints2022 1stBay Shore Junior Redskins38 2ndLindenhurst Junior Snails33 3rdHagerman Junior Gamblers22 4thIslip Junior Wolves18 5thCentral Islip Junior Hoboes14 - Fire News photos by Kim Versheck
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Golfing forWounded
WarriorsOnehundred golfers took to the fairways on May 9, 2022, at the North Shore Towers and County Club in Queens forthe Seventh Annual First Battalion Chiefs Association Golf Outing forWounded Warriors. Monies raised from the outing goes to Nassau County Firefighters Operation Wounded Warrior, a 501-C3 charity, which, since 2004, has been helping ourwounded warriors on Long Island but also in hospitals and rehabilitation units up and down the East Coast. If you care to help ourNassau firefighters help ourwarriors, checks can be mailed to NCFF-OWW, PO Box 295, Garden City, NY11530. - Fire News photo by Steve Grogan County American Legion Helping Wounded Warriors Outgoing Commanderof the Nassau County Committee of the American Legion Pat Alesia, left, who is also a formercommanderof Malverne American Legion Post 44, presents a $1000 check to Steve Grogan, a vice-chairman of Nassau County Firefighters Operation Wounded Warrior(NCFF-OWW), and a memberof the Lynbrook Fire Department and Lynbrook American Legion Post 335. The Nassau County Committee presented the check to NCFF-OWWto help ourwounded warriors afterGrogan spoke at theirconvention about what Nassau firefighters have been doing forthe wounded. Nassau County firefighters have been working to improve the lives of wounded servicemen and women here on Long Island and in hospitals up and down the East Coast since 2004. NCFF-OWWis a 501-C3 charity. Persons wishing to make a donation can mail a check to NCFF-OWW, Post Office Box 295, Garden City, NY11530. - Fire News photo by the American Legion, story by Steve Grogan
At the annual May meeting of the Fourth Battalion of the Nassau County Fire Commission, ex-Chief Mark Murray of the Rockville Centre Fire Department (second from left), was reelected fora second term as chairman of the Fourth Battalion.
Fourth Battalion Fire Leaders Sworn In
(Right): ex-Chief and past-CommissionerJohn Hennig, swears in battalion delegates, ex-Chief Joe Mihalich, East Rockaway; ex-Chief and past-CommissionerRob Cribbin, Lynbrook; exChief Robert Seaman, Rockville Centre; and FirefighterLouis Lora, Malverne. - Fire News photo by Steve Grogan
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- Fire News photo by Lee Genser
ShoreOnLakevilleManhasset-FireNews.com-2017November12,2017,whileenroutetoNorthUniversityHospital,Manhasset-LakevilleFireDepartmentrespondedtoacarfireattheintersectionofNorthernBoulevardandAllenDriveinGreatNeck.
Hicksville - 2018
On July 21, 2018, the Hicksville Fire Department was alerted for a house fire on Hicks Circle. Arriving units were met with heavy fire coming from the rearof the two-story home with reports that everyone was out. Two firefighters suffered non -life-threatening burns and were treated and released from the hospital.
- Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Brentwood - 2018
The Brentwood Fire Department was called to a house fire on Grand Boulevard on July 21, 2018. The fire was knocked down and undercontrol within an hour.
Looking Back
- Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
Mastic Chili Competition Congratulations to the winners of the Mastic Chili Contest, which was held in May 2022. Thank you to the Event Coordinators Gene Martucci and Rudy Sunderman fora great event. Thank you to Rob Corley, Nina Diaz, Ed Brooks and Steve Brown, who were this year’s judges. The 2022 winners were: First Place - Mastic Fire Department Team 1; Second Place - Mastic Beach Fire Department; Third Place - East Moriches Fire Department. - Fire News photos by Jim Rugen
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Also, during the ceremony, Chief R. Scott Ewing (Plattsburgh District 3 Fire Department) was sworn in as 1st Vice-President and Chief Anthony V. LaFerrera (North Babylon Volunteer Fire Company) was sworn in as 2nd Vice-President. Both will serve one-year terms.
Chief Wayne C. Friedman (Cortland Fire Department) was sworn in as the Director - Career, Chief Mark Strzyzynski (Henrietta Fire District) was sworn in as a Paid Director, and Chief Timothy E. Boel (East Greenbush Fire District #3), Chief James E. Hare (Hilton Fire Department), and Chief Kevin O. Kalk (Barneveld Fire Department) were sworn in as Volunteer Directors. All will serve three-year terms.
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Director Kalk, who joined the board of directors this year, has been a member of the Barneveld Fire Department since 2001. He became Chief of Department in 2010 and previously held the ranks of Lieutenant, Captain, and Assistant Chief. Kalk has also been a New York State EMT since 2007. He served as President of the Oneida County Fire Chiefs Association in 2021 and also served for five years on the board of directors of the Believe 271 Foundation, a charity that provides financial support to firefighters battling cancer and other life-threatening illnesses. Kalk has been a member of NYSAFC since 2007. He is a Hands-On Training instructor for the association and previously served on the Volunteer Chiefs and Annual Conference Committees.
Chief James R. Comstock of the Henrietta Fire District in Monroe County was installed as president of the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs during the NYSAFC 116th Annual Conference and FIRE 2022 Expo Installation Ceremony, which was held on June 18, 2022, at the Marriott Syracuse Downtown in Syracuse. He will serve a one-year term leading the statewide not-for-profit organization that represents more than 10,000 career and volunteer fire and emergency medical services personnel of all ranks from across New York state.
President Comstock joined the Henrietta Fire District in 1976 as a volunteer firefighter, rising to the rank of battalion chief. He became a career employee of the Henrietta Fire District in 1984, served as a Firefighter, Lieutenant, Captain, Battalion Chief, and Chief from 2006 until his retirement in 2017. Comstock holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics and business from Baldwin Wallace College. He served as an instructor for the Monroe County Fire Bureau for 13 years, was a New York State Fire Instructor for 10 years, and also served as a specialty lecturer for the Monroe Community College Criminal Justice Training Center for 12 years. Comstock served as an incident commander and operations section chief with the Western NYIMAT. He also served as an original member of the Monroe County Special Operations Leadership Team, as an IST member for the team, and was a New York State EMTand Code Enforcement Officer. Comstock has been a member of NYSAFC since 2004 and served on the Paid Officers Committee from 2010-2015. He has also been active with the Career Fire Chiefs of New York State and served as president from 2011-2015. Comstock is a member of the International Association of Fire Chiefs, IAFC Volunteer and Combination Officers Section, International Code Council, and National Fire Protection Association.
Learn more about the NYSAFC board of directors at www.nysfirechiefs.com/board. Chief James R. Comstock Chief Anthony V. LaFerrera Chief Kevin O. Kalk
NYSAFC2022-2023OfficersInstalled
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Page 62, Fire News, September2022 FireNews.com North PlaceTeamInvitationalBellmoreDrillJune11,2022Points 1st North PistonLindenhurstKnockers25.5 2nd Central Islip Hoboes23 3rdIslip 5thWest4thWestWolves18HempsteadWesterners12.5SayvilleFlyingDutchmen10 - Fire News photos by Kim Versheck
FireNews.com Fire News, September2022, Page 63 5th Battalion Old PlaceTeamPointsJuneFashionedDrill18,2022 1stOyster Bay Teddy’s Boys38 2ndSeacliff Indians24 2ndBayville Oak Neckers24 4thRoslyn Highlanders15 4thGlen Cove Wet Ears15 - Fire News photos by Kim Versheck
Page 64, Fire News, September2022 FireNews.com Lindenhurst Invitational Parade - Fire News photos by Kim Versheck 5th Battalion Parade at Bayville - Fire News photos by Kim Versheck
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Huntington ManorHonors Billy Bicknese
The Huntington ManorFire Department recently held a dinnerin honorof William ‘Billy’Bicknese forhis 50 years of dedicated service to the department. Bicknese graduated Huntington High School in 1964, and then joined the U.S. Army and served his country in Vietnam. Still wanting to do more to help others and serve his community, he joined the Huntington ManorFire Department Hose Company 1 in 1972. Bicknese has served on many committees and played on the golf and softball teams. In 1991, he was hired as Huntington Manor’s full-time district mechanic, keeping all the equipment and apparatus in perfect working order. Bicknese was presented with several awards and elevated to the rank of Honorary Chief. - Fire News story by Steve Silverma; photos courtesy Huntington Manor FD
The July issue of Fire News arrived and photographer Harry Loud was looking to see if he had any images published. On page 53 was an article “Bohemia Honors 50 Year Members” along with six names, one of which was Don MistlerThinking back 65-years Loud thought “It can’t be, I knew a Don Mistler who lived in Medford and we were in the Navy together, same ship (USS Antietam CVS 36), same Division (R) and same rate (Damage Controlmen).” I talked it over with Al Schwartz of the Levittown Fire Department and he said, “Go for it, it’s a great stor”. Acall to the Bohemia Fire Department confirmed they had a Don Mistler, he was in his 80s and had been in the Navy. Everything fit and I left my number. The following day Don called and we laughed about our experiences aboard ship. We were back in the 50s. Don (84 years) joined the Navy in 1955 and was assigned as a Damage Controlmen aboard the USS Antietam, an aircraft carrier. Harry (82 years) joined in 1957 and followed suit. Don was discharged in 1959 and Harry in 1960. Upon his discharge he returned to Medford where he served with the Medford Fire Department for 11-years and upon moving joined the Bohemia Fire Department in 1969 to the present. He is assigned to Engine 2 and serves as its Treasurer. Upon my discharge I was appointed to the FDNYin 1963 and was assigned to Engine 5, transferred to Engine 14 and later to Engine 308. In 1971 I joined the Wantagh Fire Department and was assigned to Rescue2 and upon being injured in the FDNYbecame the PIO for Wantagh. No more fire duty as it’s a young man’s job. Don had 54-years with Bohemia and I some 40-years with Wantagh. We were both married and we each had two children. Don two boys and me a boy and a girl. Don worked as a contractor giving his spare time to fire departments whereby my profession was firefighting and my spare time wasAsmallfirefightingworld indeed, two young men join and meet in the U.S. Navy in 1957, basically follow down the same path, and 65-years later meet to reminisce about old times. Had it not been for a story in Fire News and a little detective work, the reunion would not have come to pass. - Fire News story by Harry Loud (Photo above, left) (on the left) Damage Controlmen 2nd Class Don Mistler, (right) Damage Controlmen 3rd Class Harry Loud. USS Antietam-CVS 36-Official Photograph U.S. Navy.
Fire
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ShipmatesReunitesNewsTwo
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The Islip Town Fire and EMS Museum and Education Centerheld its second annual Man-vsMachine hands-on training event the weekend of May 14-15, 2022. Presented by seasoned instructors from PLVulcan Fire Training Concepts, 60 firefighters from departments across Long Island attended a lecture portion on Friday evening as well as a fourhourhands-on skills training session on Saturday. This event was presented as part of the museum’s continuing series of fundraiser training events designed to support ouroperations while providing tangible training in return to our supporters. - story by Tom Rinelli, photos by Tim Edwards
Islip Museum Man vs Machine Event
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Suffolk FRES Hosts SummerFire & EMS Open House and Recruitment Event
The event was highlighted by an emergency response drill simulating a collision of a Long Island Railroad train and a motor vehicle with multiple injuries. Suffolk County FRES, Brookhaven Fire Department, Suffolk County Fire Academy, Suffolk County EMS and South Country Ambulance collaborated to ensure the success of the drill. The County's Drone Team also provided demonstrations and showed off its equipment and mission capabilities.
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In addition, Island Harvest was on-site to collect donations and non-perishable items as part of a Fire & EMS Food Drive. The organization collected goods to provide more than 1,700 meals to local families-in-need.
To date, Suffolk County’s Open House and Recruitment Events have resulted in more than 210 local first responders signing up with their local departments. Interested candidates can learn more about becoming a first responder at suffolksbravest.com.
- Fire News photos provided by Ken Bradbury and Richard Stark; story by Peter Guaraldi, SCFRES
The Suffolk County Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services (FRES) and the Suffolk County Fire Academy recently hosted its Second Open House and Recruitment Event at the Fire Academy’s training facility in Yaphank. The event attracted more than 150 participants, including new first responders who signed up with their local fire department or EMS agency through the Suffolk’s Bravest program, junior explorers and community “Recruitmentmembers.andretention continues to be paramount in ensuring the longevity and wellbeing of the local volunteer fire service,” said Patrick Beckley, Suffolk County FRES Commissioner. “By engaging our young people and communities, we will continue to ensure that there are plenty of opportunities for our future first responders to learn more about the service and interact with the personnel and equipment they would be working with.”
Combining the two events provides for a more robust group of speakers and allows participants to attend both conferences for one greatThereprice.are other significant additions to the Health and Safety Conference in three co-sponsors. F.I.E.R.O., Firefighter Cancer Support Network (FCSN) and the Science Alliance, a new community of scientists and fire service professionals dedicated to improving the health and safety of first responders, have all signed on as sponsors of the event to participate in some way and expand the reach of the conference. As firefighter health and safety has become a topic at the forefront of the fire service, including these organizations expands our pool of subject matter experts.
The Fire Department Safety Officers Association (FDSOA) is pleased to announce that registration is now open for the 2023 Health and Safety Conference. The Health and Safety Conference will be held in conjunction with the First Responder Center for Excellence (FRCE) Health and Wellness Symposium January 17-20, 2023, at the Tradewinds Island Grand in St Pete’s Beach, Florida. Pre-conference programs will be held January 15-16.
https://www.eventsquid.com/event.cfm?id=17130,atanassemblageofnotableandhighly-skilledinstructors.GeneralsessionspeakersincludeDr.RichardGasaway,founderofSituationalAwarenessMatters!;Dr.LoriMoore-Merrell,USFireAdministrator;andChiefDennisCompton,Mesa,Arizona(Ret.).Registrationisavailableforthesegreatclassesandevents.
A10-percent discount applies to all registrations until October31, 2022. We look forward to seeing you at one of these great conferences!
The 5th Annual Firefighter Health & Wellness conference is coming soon to Beavercreek, Ohio, on October 26, 27 and 28, 2022. The Firefighter Health and Wellness Conference is the most affordable health and wellness conference in America! This year’s speakers include Former Firefighter, Police Officer, Author, and Comedian Travis Howze, Save-a-Warrior Founder Jake Clark, FDNYDeputy Chief Frank Leeb, Retired FDNY Captain Mike Dugan, Retired OKCFD Major Chris Fields, Dr Sara Jahnke, Dr Jeff Burgess, and more! Visit our website to view our entire lineup and purchase your tickets! brothers.org/ffhw2022https://events.brothershelping-
Registration for the Apparatus Conference, held January 8-10, 2023, at the Gilbert Fire Academy in Gilbert, Arizona, will be available soon. The FRCE has held successful cancer and behavioral health symposia over the last five years and aims to take a more holistic approach with this year’s event.
5TH
REGISTRATION NOWOPEN FOR FDSOA 2023 HEALTH AND SAFETYCONFERENCE Page 72, Fire News, September2022 FireNews.com
ANNUALFIREFIGHTER HEALTH & WELLNESS CONFERENCE
Pre-conference events include Health and Safety Officer (HSO) and Incident Safety Officer (ISO) 2-day academies, Response to Battery Emergencies, Infectious Control, Accident Investigation, a F.I.E.R.O PPE Workshop and The 5 Reads. Schedules are now available
Third Assistant Chief Chris Ciaccio arrived and quickly donned his bunker gear and SCBA. At the same time Suffolk County Police Second precinct Police Officers Shane Wild and Steven Capongna were trying to pull one of the victims out a top floor window. Simultaneously, Firefighter Spiler forced entry into the front door. Chief Ciaccio, without the protection of a hoseline and with impending flashover signs present, quickly began a targeted search in effort to make it to the bedroom where the victim was last observed. Chief Ciaccio, found Mrs. Cohen semiconscious. With interior fire conditions rapidly deteriorating, Chief Ciaccio, in coordination with the police officers who were on a ladder, was able to lift the victim up to the windowsill, allowing the two officers to pull her to safety. With a victim still in the burning building, firefighters began to search for the second victim. Within seconds Chief Ciaccio and Firefighter Jerome Quigley found Mr. Cohen conscious and hanging out of a bedroom window on the top floor.The victims were treated at the scene by Commack Ambulance members then taken to the hospital by ambulance. They both suffered smoke inhalation and minor burns. They were treated at the hospital and released later the same day and have both since made full recoveries.
Acouple rescued from their burning East Northport home on April 22, 2022, were reunited with their rescuers on July 5, 2022, at the Commack firehouse.Evelyn and Harold Cohen have yet to move back into their home, which was severely damaged, but during the visit to the firehouse they thanked the Commack fire chiefs for the work of their department to rescue them. According to Chief Kiernan Keane, on April 22 at 0319, the Commack Fire Department was called out to the Penfield Drive house fire. At 0324, a neighbor and Commack Firefighter Andrew Spiler arrived and advised Chief Keane there was a working fire and confirmed there were two residents trapped.
Couple Reunited with TheirRescuers
“It is to be noted that the first victim was removed within approximately four minutes and 14 seconds of Chief Ciaccio’s arrival and the second victim removed within one minute and 43 seconds after the first victim,” according to a report by Chief Keane, who is recommending Chief Ciaccio and Firefighter Quigley for honors in the appropriate grades.
- Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber & Commack FD (photo of fire scene with Chief Keane 2-11-30)
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The Dix Hills Fire Department recently held their 75th Annual Installation of Officers Dinner at the Heritage Club at Bethpage. After the Invocation by Deacon Carmine DeStefano, the chiefs and commissioners were introduced. Chiefs: Chief Joseph Williamson, First Assistant Chief Brett Tepe, Second Assistant Chief Scott DiPino, Third Assistant Chief Terrence ‘TJ’Farrell. Commissioners: Chairman Mike Plumitallo, Larry Feld, Todd Cohen, Alan Berkowitz, Steve Weisbrot.Thefollowing awards were presented:
Terry Farrell Firefighter of the Year - ex-Chief Ronald Gatto; Alan Cornfeld Rescue Person of the Year - Lori Stiegler; Fred Kuhne Inspirational Award - exChief Steven Kamvakis.
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Top 5 Fire Responders - William Steed, Robert Depaolo, Robert Commisso, Lieut. Michael Steed and Christopher Steed. Top 5 Rescue Responders - Captain Maresa Spizzirri, Robert Depaolo, Douglas Wagner, Samantha Strasser and Lieutenant Louis Aquino.
Length of Service Awards: 20 Years - Tony de Cesare, Steve Weisbrot; 25 Years - Jamie Wustenhoff; 30 Years - Charles Feld, George Fleites; 35 YearsTodd Cohen; 45 Years - Michael Gatto, ex-Chief Thomas Magno, Norbert Meehan and Jim Brangan; 55 years - ex-Chief Steven Kamvakis. - Fire News story by Steve Silverman, Dix Hills FD photos
Dix Hills 75th Installation
Congratulations to Suffolk County Fire Marshall Brett Martinez on his 32 years of service as a bureau and alcohol tobacco and firearms (ATF) Accelerant Detection K-9 Handler. On November 8, 1991, he graduated with Suffolk County County’s first ever Accelerant Detection Canine. The ATF had only started the program in 1985 and there were only 14 in the country. That dog’s name was Ember. In November 1999, Brett graduated with his second canine Cinder. Cinder assisted in over 300 arson investigations locally and was called out to Reno, Nevada, to assist the ATF with a hotel fire that resulted in multiple deaths. In December 2007, Brett graduated with his third dog Jul. In addition to numerous arson cases in both Nassau, NYC and Suffolk, Brett and Jul traveled to Rhode Island to assist the ATF with a large fire in an old textile mill covering numerous blocks. In December 2016, Brett graduated with his fourth canine partner Sasha. Brett and Sasha are still serving the residents of Suffolk and are in service to all local law enforcement agencies and theNovemberATF. 8, 2021, was Brett’s 30th anniversary as a canine handler for the county of Suffolk with a canine partner trained by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. Brett is recognized as the longest consecutive Accelerant Detection Canine Handler in history. Suffolk County also maintains the longest relationship with the ATF canine program. Thank you, Brett, for your dedicated service. - Fire News photos by Ron Monteleone
Fire Marshall Brett Martinez
Retiring After32 Years
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SCVFAPresents MCI Lecture
The Suffolk County VolunteerFiremen’s Association held a seminarat Selden Fire Department forEMS departments on “Navigating Complex Critical Incidents” on May 14, 2022. This seminarwas to show how an active shooterin Florida’s 2016 Pulse nightclub mass shooting in which 49 were killed and 53 wounded was handled and how to prepare fora similarsituation. Presenting the seminarwas Chief of the City of St. Cloud Police, Douglas Goerke, who offered an insider’s perspective of one of the largest mass casualty shootings in America. Presenting an appreciation award to Douglas Goerke were members of the Suffolk County VolunteerFiremen’s Association. - Fire News photos by Jim Dunn
- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com
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Meadowmere Park Celebrates 75 Years of Service
Congratulations to the Meadowmere Park Fire Department on 75 years of service.
On August 6, 2022, the Meadowmere Park Fire Department held a block party commemorating their75th anniversary. The department achieved this milestone in 2021; however, with Covid still a significant factorat the time, the event was not held. The block party was attended by members of the Meadowmere Park Fire Department along with theirfamilies and friends. Also in attendance was representation from the otherThird Battalion departments as well as otherfire departments outside of the battalion.
