Fire News New York State, March 2021 edition by Fire News

Serving NEW YORK S TATE Serving Fire, Rescue

VOLUME 14, NO. 5

Fire,Serving Rescue & EMS Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes & EMS Heroes Heroes Since 1973 Since 1996 1973

W W W .FIRENE WS .COM

MARCH 2021

See story on page 6. - Fire News photo by Peter Barber

Historic East Village Church Destroyed See story on page 28.

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Fire News, March 2021, Page 3

In this issue... Heavy Smoke in Albany High Rise The Albany Fire Department responded to an alarm in a nine-story high-rise apartment house. See story on page 7

Yonkers 4-Alarmer Crews requested multiple alarms throughout the incident due to a heavy fire load which eventually destroyed the building. See story on page 12

Non-Hydrant Area Blaze The first chief confirmed a singlestory dwelling fully involved and requested a tanker task force being it was in a non-hydrant area. See story on page 21

Flames Gut Guilderland Home Heavy fire was reported on arrival and quickly consumed the entire roof area of the home and a three-car garage. See story on page 24

Fatal Head-on in Rotterdam Carman firefighters used a hydraulic rescue tool to free the driver of a pickup that hit an SUV head-on. See story on page 33

A Service for New York State Firefighters and EMS Heroes 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713 FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher TIM EDWARDS, Executive Editor DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor GARY P. JOYCE, Managing Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production/Sales LYNN SEDLER, Art Director CLIFF CHIESA, Production Manager Advertising Sales: BARBARA CONNOLLY Editorial Assistant: BRYAN LOPEZ Graphic Artist: GREGORY JONES CONTRIBUTORS: Andrew Aguilar, Chris Aldous, Jeff Ambroz, Peter Barber, Kevin Barry, John Bashaw, Bill Bennett, Tom Bierds, Jeff Couch, Chris Creighton, David Denniston, Rick Douglas, Brian Duddy, Stan Dybus, John Falcone, Ken Flynn, Joe Fortunato, Eli Gill, Mark Gillen, Carol Greene, Tom Heffernan Sr., Greg Herman, Matt Hodge, Steve Hodgekiss, Robert Holley, Daniel Imfield, Andy Jarchin, Bill Johnson, Mark Johnson, Chris Kalisak, Charlie Keller, Jon Kemp, Gordon Kotars, David R. LaRocco, Stephen Lenz, Joshua Long, Mike Messar, Ralph Miele, Albert Mignone, John Miller, Martin E. Miller, Lloyd Mitchell, Brian Natoli, Carleton Raab, Robert Reynolds, Lauren Rivera, Stephen Schaefer, Deborah Schweikert, Tom Shand, John Shaw, Sharon Siegel, Robert Simpson, Joe Sperber, Bryan Sypniewski, Karen Todd, Kyle Townsend, Joe Turner, Michael VanDerLieth, Lori Washburn, D.B. Weimer, Stephen White.

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Fire Leaves 9 Homeless Schenectady firefighters battled a house fire after fire was seen coming from the windows of an A side bedroom. See story on page 34

PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 4 Up Close & Personal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 15 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 27 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 33 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 33

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, NY 11713.

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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor

Baby, It’s Cold Outside! Hopefully by the time you read my March editorial, the cold weather has started to turn around and signs of springtime have arrived. In my eyes, February 2021 has been a brutal month, with ongoing snowstorms that keep adding to the piles of frozen snow. I used to love the snow, but as I age, I am finding it difficult to work in 20-degree temperatures. One thing I can say for sure, I have a renewed appreciation for our young firefighters who never seem to mind the cold. Yes, we were all once young and enjoyed getting away to ski the slopes in frigid weather. Fighting a fire in extremely cold weather was also looked at as a memorable experience. When winter arrived, I rearranged my turnout gear rack. I had a thermal lined vest that I wore on every call. Back in my early days, we didn't have thermal hoods. We relied on the earflaps in our helmets that were designed to protect our ears from burns in a fire, to keep us warm when we stood in the cold. If you look at old winter firefighting photos, you might catch a glimpse of a hooded sweatshirt poking out of the collar of a turnout coat. Yes, winter was and still is a

time of the year that challenged firefighters. A serious winter fire in below freezing temperatures starts off with finding a hydrant that was just buried by the snowplows, who are trying to keep traffic moving. Once the hydrant is cleared, that lucky firefighter may be spent for the rest of the fire. Fighting the fire is always warm. We never think of the cold until the fire is knocked down and we are standing in our soaking wet turnout gear that is now starting to freeze. As the ground around us becomes a skating pond, chiefs and safety officers have to give thought in calling for de-icing units to keep the scene somewhat safe. Call for help early! For large scale fires, be sure that you know what resources your town and FireRescue and Emergency Services have to help rehab firefighters. Remember that frostbite can leave you with permanent reminders that your skin was once damaged by the cold. Frostbite is serious! Protect yourself. Get out of wet clothing as soon as you can. Change out your wet gloves, wet socks and sweaty clothes before they freeze. Manual dexterity declines in cold weather

and your thought process slows down in cold weather. Know the symptoms of hypothermia. Once shivering occurs, you may not be able to warm up without an additional heat source. Many years ago, I attended a seminar about working in extremely cold climates. A doctor from the US Army spoke about the problems that the constructions workers faced while working on the Alaskan pipeline. His photos and narrations opened my eyes to the dangers of working in cold environments. It is imperative that you look to your local university to find the cold weather experts and see if they will speak with your department on the dangers of working in cold weather. In the meantime, pray for warmer weather and stay safe. - Dennis

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Fire News, March 2021, Page 5

A Time Such as This SIZE UP Issue 4 • 2020 From the Chaplains' Study Rev. Leon I. VanWie, Chaplain New York State Association of Fire Chaplains, Inc. THERE ARE MANY BIBLE stories that would make for box office hits, and a few that would rate up there for the Academy Award for best picture if told well and accurately. I think the biblical story of Esther is one such story. The setting is fifth century B.C. Persia, (modern day Iran). King Ahasuerus held a party for his friends, while his wife (Queen Vashti) held a party for her friends. The king requested the queen’s presence and she refused. The humiliated king replaced his wife with Esther, who was beautiful and young. Esther had been raised by her uncle, Mordecai, after she had been orphaned. Mordecai and Esther were Jewish, though they did not let anyone know of their faith. At one time, Mordecai overheard a plot to assassinate the king and shared it with his niece, who told the king, giving credit to Mordecai. King Ahasuerus never forgot that kindness. Along comes Haman, who the king had promoted to the highest ranking official in the government. As people came before Haman, he expected them to bow. Mordecai refused, so Haman decided to wipe out all the Jewish peo-

ple, not knowing the king’s wife was Jewish. As word spread of the plan, Mordecai approached his niece. Esther 4:13-14 shares this story: Mordecai sent her this message: “Don’t think that just because you live in the king’s house you’re the one Jew who will get out of this alive. If you persist in staying silent at a time like this, help and deliverance will arrive for the Jews from someplace else ... Who knows? Maybe you were made queen for just such a time as this.” Esther told the king of Haman’s plan and because of his respect for Mordecai and love of his wife Esther, Ahasuerus had Haman killed and all the Jews in the empire were spared. I still think that would make a great movie, but the focus of my article is Mordecai’s message to Esther: “Who knows? Maybe you were made queen for just such a time as this.” I’ve thought about that verse a great deal lately. As I moved into the position of Chief Chaplain for the New York State Association of Fire Chaplains, my wife and I were to host the training conference in Watertown in April 2020. Covid-19 changed all of that. I was also looking forward to being in Syracuse for the NYSAFC 114th Annual Conference and FIRE 2020 Expo and the installation of Lee Shurtleff as our new President. Covid changed that. Many of us who have moved into leadership roles in our local fire

departments and county or state organizations focus on the disappointments and frustrations the coronavirus presents. I know I did, but then Mordecai’s words hit home — maybe I was brought into the position of Chief Chaplain for just such a time as this. Maybe Lee Shurtleff has been brought into the position of President of the State Chiefs for just such a time as this. This is not the year that any of us thought it would be, but maybe we are in the positions we are in for just such a time as this. What gifts do you have that your department or organization needs right now to deal with the complexities that Covid-19 has created? Like Esther, maybe God put you where you are for just such a time as this. Maybe God wants you exactly where you are and the gifts you have are the gifts that are needed! Leon VanWie began in the fire service in 1976. He was an EMT for over 15 years and currently serves as the chaplain and president for the Town of Watertown Volunteer Fire Department, chaplain for the City of Watertown Fire Department, and a deputy fire coordinator for Jefferson County in the role of chaplain. In May 2020, he became the Chief Chaplain for the New York State Chaplains. VanWie belongs to numerous county and state fire organizations. He can be contacted at leonvanwie@gmail.com or 315-771-9142 (voice or text).

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Cover Story

Water Supply Problems in Montgomery Co.

On January 24, 2021, what originated as a chimney fire, turned into defensive operations on Chapman Drive in the Town of Amsterdam. Water supply was an issue as master streams and hose lines lost pressure several times at the height of the fire. No report of injuries

and no exact cause was listed. Cranesville was aided by the City of Amsterdam’s ladder truck, and manpower from Tribes Hill, Hagaman, Schenectady County, West Glenville and Beukendaal. - Fire News photos by Peter Barber

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Heavy Smoke in Albany High Rise

On December 16, 2020, the Albany Fire Department responded to an alarm in a nine-story high-rise apartment house on South Pearl Street. Upon arrival, firefighters found heavy smoke and fire in an apartment on the ninth floor in the back of the building. A second alarm was sounded and mutual aid was requested from Troy, Watervliet and Green Island for cover. The fire was brought under control in about 45 minutes. Albany Fire Investigators responded to the scene for an investigation. One resident was transported to the hospital as a precaution. - Fire News photos by Tom Heffernan

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That Didn’t Work Too Well

Fire Destroys Fort Hunter Home

Recently, the West Athens Lime Street Fire Department in Greene County responded to a chimney fire. The fire was contained to a home-made chimney cap made from coffee cans. The homemade cap collected debris that ignited. The fire was extinguished shortly after arrival. Athens assisted at the scene. - Fire News photo by John C. Miller

On December 8, 2020, Fort Hunter firefighters battled a multi-alarm fire in a home on Quackenbush Road in the village. The fire started in the rear of the house and quickly spread throughout. The house was recently purchased and was the former home of a hoarder, which made an interior attack impossible. The house was bulldozed so firefighters could get to the seat of the fire. - Fire News photo by Peter Barber

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Fire News, March 2021, Page 9

Condo Burns in Irvington

Mahopac Falls House Fire

On December 7, 2020, Irvington firefighters worked a secondalarm fire in a condo unit on Locust Lane. Companies arrived to find heavy fire showing from and around the chimney in a mid-section condo unit. Extra companies were called to help with this labor-intensive fire. - Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com

On December 23, 2020, The Mahopac Falls Fire and EMS were dispatched early in the morning to a house fire off Mexico Lane. Chief Jeff Boyle assumed Incident Command as 1st. Assistant Chief Bob Trace took charge of operations. Mahopac responded to cover, but was rerouted to the scene. Putnam Valley FAST unit, Battalion 16 and the Putnam County Fire Investigation team also responded with Somers on standby. Fire crews stretched lines in from the road down the long driveway and immediately began a heavy exterior attack. During the height of the fire, Mahopac Falls also was responding to multiple ambulance calls, with Mahopac and Somers covering some of the calls. - Fire News photo by Jack Casey

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3 Alarms at Bronx Commercial Fire

- Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

- Fire News photo by Lloyd Mitchell On January 28, 2021, FDNY firefighters in the Bronx were dispatched to Westchester Avenue for the report of a fire in a store. On arrival, companies found fire showing from a storefront and quickly went to work forcing entry and stretching lines. Crews were making good progress on the fire with an aggressive interior attack when popping started being heard deep within the store. Command ordered everyone to evacuate the building as the fire rapidly grew,

- Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com extending up the two-story taxpayer and into the bravo exposure. After evaluating the scene the decision was made to go defensive. Multiple tower ladders were put into operation and crews worked to knock down large pockets of fire. As firefighters worked this fire, an EMS crew member was assaulted by a civilian faking an injury on scene; the citizen was arrested.

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Yonkers 4-Alarmer

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- Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com At around 0645 on January 12, 2021, the Yonkers Fire Department was alerted for a possible building fire on Yonkers Avenue. Arriving companies had fire showing from a single-story taxpayer. Crews requested multiple alarms throughout the incident due to a heavy fire

- Fire News photo by KempterFireWire

load which eventually destroyed the building, as well as the connecting businesses. Crews moved to an exterior attack and set up ladder pipes for the duration of the incident. Due to multiple collapses throughout the incident the next morning the building was demolished.

- Fire News photo by Mike Messar

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Fire News, March 2021, Page 13

It’sNew toTHEM Sponsored by Command Apparatus

BETHPAGE ENGINE 905 "Pride of Plainedge" 1998 Seagrave 1500 GPM single stage pump , 500 Gallon Water Tank , 40 Gallon Foam Tank. Served the residents of Bethpage from 1998- 2019 . The rig now belongs to the Harwood Fire Company located in Hazel Township Pennsylvania.

2001 EMERGENCY ONE Former West Niles Fire Company purchased by Damascus Arkansas 2001 Emergency One 1250 gpm with 1000 gallon tank.

2000 KME 95' AERIAL TOWER 2000 KME 95' aerial tower from East Norwich NY sold to Waterbury VT.

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To have your department’s apparatus featured here please call Barbara Connolly

631-776-1853 barbara@firenews.com

Page 14, Fire News, March 2021

Hi-Rise 4-Alarmer Takes Out 17 Floors, Injures Dozens

A four-alarm high-rise fire in Yonkers injured dozens on the evening of January 7, 2021. Just after 1800, numerous calls began coming for a fire on Glenwood Avenue, in a 27-story building along the Hudson River on the city’s West Side. The first-due engine arrived to heavy fire from the windows of a third-floor apartment and numerous residents yelling for help on balconies. Three residents were removed with ground ladders and one family jumped from a 19th-floor balcony to an 18th-floor balcony. Companies found heavy fire in the hallway. Though the fire was placed under control in less than an hour, companies spent several hours responding to medical calls and panicked residents throughout the building. Empress EMS transported two dozen residents and six firefighters to area hospitals. Thirty-eight families were unable to return to their apartments as 17 floors were deemed uninhabitable. An electrical baseboard heater is believed to be the cause of the fire. - Fire News photo by Mike Messar

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Fire KO’d at Storage Facility

A fire at a storage tank at the Peckham Industries facility in Athens was quickly extinguished by a fire suppression system at the plant. Flames and heavy black smoke were first reported, bringing Athens and West Athens to the scene. After inspection by firefighters, the fire suppression system did its job. No injuries or further extension was reported for the incident. - Fire News photo by John C. Miller

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Fire News, March 2021, Page 15

UP-CLOSE

Amsterdam Firefighter Eric Hendricks. - Fire News photo by MarkPerfettiPhotography.com

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Fatality at Amsterdam Blaze

At approximately 1500 on January 30, 2021, Amsterdam Police and Amsterdam Fire responedd to the report of a structure fire with heavy smoke in the area of Guy Park Avenue and Genevieve Street in the city’s West End. Upon arrival, officers determined the source of the smoke and fire to be a nearby residence located on Division Street. Officers observed the second floor of the two-story home to be fully involved with visible flames escaping from the windows and rooftop. Neighbors who spotted the flames were able to assist two people in getting out of the building. The fire claimed the life of one

person inside the residence. Amsterdam Police personnel including members of the detective bureau remained on the scene while Amsterdam Fire continued to put the blaze out into the evening hours. An investigation into the fire was ongoing in conjunction with the New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control. Personnel from Amsterdam Police and Fire remained on the scene throughout the night as the investigation continued. - Fire News photos by MarkPerfettiPhotography.com

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Chimney Fire

On January 14, 2021, Latham, Boght and the duty-crew fire departments responded to a house fire. The home was evacuated as it was filled with smoke. It was determined that there was a fire in the fireplace. Because of the angle of the flue it was difficult to clear out the fire. Firefighters Paul Tosino and Todd Gardner worked by putting a chain down the chimney to dislodge the fire. There was minimal smoke damage and the family was able to return to their home. - Fire News photo by Lori Washburn

Arson Charged in Van Fire

On January 14, 2021, Latham and Boght fire departments responded to what was originally called in as a structure fire. Upon arrival, the crews realized that the fire was a vehicle fire. A Unifirst delivery van in the rear of the building was fully involved and most of the van was completely destroyed. The crews worked to get water to the rear of the building. The van which was full of that day’s delivery of uniforms and other clothing also hampered dousing the fire. After intensive investigation the Colonie Police Department were able to track down the disgruntled former employee who set fire to the van as well as another one in November. An arrest was made. - Fire News photo by Lori Washburn

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Barn a Total Loss in Washington Co.

Water Issues at Albany 2-Alarmer

On January 9, 2021, firefighters in Washington County, just north of Rensselaer County, battled a barn fire. The steel pole barn was near a house and surrounded by hundreds of acres of farm field. Easton Volunteer 1 and 2, Fort Edward, Quaker Springs and Hoosick Valley responded. The barn was a total loss. - Fire News photo by Martin E. Miller

On December 17, 2020, the Albany firefighters battled a two-alarm apartment fire on South Pearl Street. Most of the residents on that floor sheltered in their apartments. Many people were brought outside by police officers. The hard work was getting water from the seventh to the eighth floor. There were no injuries reported for the incident. - Fire News photo by Martin E. Miller

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Fire News, March 2021, Page 21

Beacon House Fire

Non-Hydrant Area Blaze

On January 6, 2021, the City of Beacon Fire Department was notified by the Dutchess County 911 Center of a fire on Ralph Street in a 2-1/2 story wood structure. Fire units arrived to a fire extending from the first-floor front room onto the porch. A second alarm was requested. The sole occupant of the house was on the first floor and escaped without injury. One hoseline was advanced onto the porch and then into the first floor and crews made a quick aggressive attack to bring the fire under control. The fire damage was confined to the first floor and the front porch, but there was smoke damage throughout. The Village of Fishkill and Castle Point fire crews did a search and ventilation of the second floor. Assisting or covering were Glenham and Rombout. Central Hudson Gas and Electric services were discovered to have been disconnected years ago. The occupant was suppling services to his house with generators and propane heaters. The Red Cross provided lodging and support to the occupant. - Fire News photo courtesy of Chief Gary Van Voorhis; City of Beacon FD

On the afternoon of December 11, 2020, the Yorktown Heights Fire Department was called to Blinn Road for a structure fire. While responding, dispatch updated the units as receiving multiple calls for a fully involved house fire. The first chief confirmed a singlestory dwelling fully involved and requested a tanker task force being it was in a non-hydrant area. The first engine stretched two lines and started hitting the fire. It took approximately two hours to get the fire under control due to water issues. Westchester County Police Arson K9 (K9A1) was requested to the scene to assist in fire investigation. - Fire News photo by KempterFireWire

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Kitchen Fire Goes to Two-Alarms

New Rochelle Battles 2-Alarm Fire

On January 3, 2021, a kitchen fire quickly spread to the attic of a 2-1/2 story, wood frame house on Van Vranken Avenue in Schenectady. Firefighters responded to a report of a stove fire, but on arrival found heavy smoke venting from the second- and thirdfloor windows. The fire was brought under control in less than an hour and no injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by Peter Barber

On the afternoon of January 2, 2021, New Rochelle firefighters were dispatched to Clinton Avenue for a dwelling fire. Companies arrived to smoke showing and stretched lines as the working fire was declared. Crews made entry and found a basement fire with fire extending up the walls of the dwelling. A second alarm was struck bringing extra resources to help pull ceilings and walls. The fire was brought under control a short time later. - Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com

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Brockport Goes to Work

Around 1930 on January 18, 2021, Brockport firefighters with mutual aid were dispatched to Spring Street for a dwelling fire. On arrival, companies found heavy fire showing from the first floor. Companies stretched lines as strong winds helped to grow the already advanced fire. Crews were able to make a good knock down of the fire on the first floor but the fire was running the walls and soon reached the attic. Having multiple departments on scene helped control this fire and stop it from taking over the home as the incident became extremely labor intensive. Companies were able to knock down the fire in the attic shortly after and bring the fire under control. - Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com

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Flames Gut Guilderland Home

On January 21, 2021, Fort Hunter firefighters battled a fast moving house fire on Vosbergh Road in the town of Guilderland. Heavy fire was reported on arrival and quickly consumed the entire roof area of the home and a three-car garage. All occupants escaped safely. Fort Hunter was assisted by Guilderland, Colonie and Rotterdam District 2. - Fire News photo by Peter Barber

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Ford Helps Warwick FD Thanks to the Ford Motor Company and to Leo Kaytes Ford of Warwick for donating 2200 face masks to the Warwick Fire Department. This donation will help prevent the spread of Covid19 amongst our members and the community we serve. We greatly appreciate the donation. In the photo, Warwick firefighters receive a mask donation from Leo Kaytes Ford and the Ford Motor Company. We thank Leo Kaytes Ford for always supporting the WFD and our community! - Fire News photo provided by WFD

Dive Team Training On January 16, 2021, plans were made for the Mahopac Falls Fire Department Dive Team to do one of their winter training dives. As divers, tenders and support staff were heading for the main station, pagers were activated for an oil truck on fire at Secor Road. Assistant Chief Bob Trace, along with a tanker/pumper and heavy rescue were on location in minutes only to find the problem under control. Multiple Carmel Police units were on the scene but all police and fire units were soon released from the scene. Free to carry on with the scheduled training, the Dive Team and support proceeded to the beach at the end of Croton Falls Road and East Lake Boulevard for their drill. Dive Captain Matt Eaton had the divers and their tenders go through the paces in 40-ish-degree ambient temperatures as divers worked in the 35-degree water. The unit has been the only dive team in Putnam County for 50 years and proud of it. - Fire News photo by Jack Casey, PIO Co.19

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Ice Rescue and Dive Training

On January 22 and 28, 2021, agencies participated in Surface Ice Rescue Levels 1 and 2 Technician Training. Departments were from, Athens., Taghkanic, Stockport, Stuyvesant, Canaan, and the City of Hudson. The second training class for Ice Diving Search Rescue and Recovery training included the Hudson and Athens Fire Departments and the Ulster County Sheriff’s Department. - Fire News photos by John C. Miller

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Fire News, March 2021, Page 27

HENDRICKSON FIRE RESCUE EQUIPMENT EXPANDS PORTFOLIO WITH FERRARA AND E-ONE REV Fire Group, a manufacturer of industry-leading fire apparatus brands announced on January 1, 2021, that Hendrickson Fire Rescue Equipment is expanding its product portfolio and will represent Ferrara Fire Apparatus and E-ONE. Hendrickson Fire Rescue Equipment has been a longtime, successful Spartan Emergency Response dealer providing its New York Metro area customers with best-in-class sales and service. “We are thrilled to expand our portfolio of product offerings to meet our customers’ fire apparatus needs,” said Craig Probst, President of Hendrickson Fire Rescue Equipment. “We look forward to growing the Ferrara and E-ONE customer base in New York by providing our next generation customer support strategy.” Hendrickson Fire operates out of a state-of-the-art 20,000-square -foot facility, which includes a collision center featuring a 55-foot spray booth and an expansive parts inventory. The Hendrickson team of 65 leverages their knowledge and facilities to provide complete fire apparatus service. Hendrickson is also a comprehensive and authorized service center for Cummins.

“Hendrickson has made significant investments into its dealership with people, facilities and aftermarket support capabilities in order to provide customers with a premium experience. We look forward to their contribution in growing the Ferrara and EONE brands,” said Mike Virnig, Vice-President of Sales for REV Fire Group.

NYSAFC AWARDED GRANT FROM MARSHALL & STERLING INSURANCE TO REFURBISH MOBILE FLASHOVER TRAINING UNIT On January 13, 2021, the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs (NYSAFC) received a $25,000 grant from Marshall & Sterling Insurance that will be used to repair the association’s mobile flashover training simulator and service other training props that are utilized to conduct regional handson training programs for firefighters across New York State. With this grant, NYSAFC will be able to enhance the practical skills programs it delivers at the local level, providing essential training to fire personnel in all regions of the state. Vice President & Branch Manager Christopher Harris and Sales Executive Linda Flanagan of Marshall & Sterling made the trip to NYSAFC headquarters for the presentation. Marshall & Sterling is a firm believer in giving back to the community and supporting not-for-profits. Harris said, “The dollars Marshall & Sterling provided will go a long way in training and educating the fire service.” Flanagan added, “I know that this contribution will be meaningful and will make a difference in your training statewide. This is part of our commitment to the fire service and we are glad to be a part of it. We know training is everything, including the confi-

(Left to right): NYSAFC Education Coordinator Sue Revoir, Marshall & Sterling Vice President & Branch Manager Christopher Harris, NYSAFC CEO Bruce Heberer and Director Timothy Boel, and Marshall & Sterling Sales Executive Linda Flanagan.

dence it brings to a firefighter.” NYSAFC has been conducting hands-on training at its Annual Conference & FIRE Expo since 1999, led by some of the nation’s leading instructors. To reach more firefighters year-round and to bring critical live fire training to all areas of New York, the Regional Hands-On Training - “Flashover” program was introduced in 2012. This intense training allows students to experience fire development from the incip-

ient stage to flashover. NYSAFC’s training programs expanded in recent years to include “Fire Behavior On the Inside” and “Beyond the Basics,” all using the association’s mobile training unit for fireground simulations. “We are so grateful to Marshall & Sterling for this generous support of NYSAFC and our mission to provide education for the current and future leaders of the fire service. Our programs offer a unique opportunity to sharpen all-important skills. With this much-needed overhaul of our equipment, we’ll be able to bring crucial training to fire departments for years to come,” said NYSAFC President Lee Shurtleff. NYSAFC CEO Bruce Heberer noted, “This tremendous assistance from Marshall & Sterling has come at such an important yet challenging time. Over the past year, our flashover unit has been in constant use, traveling from downstate to western New York to the North Country and all the regions in between. The need for fire service training never stops, and this grant will help us keep the flashover unit operational.” Learn more about NYSAFC training at www.nysfirechiefs.com.

Page 28, Fire News, March 2021

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2-Alarmer in Fordham Heights FDNY companies battled at two-alarm blaze in an occupied multiple dwelling on Anthony Avenue near The Grand Concourse in the Fordham Heights section of the Bronx on January 2, 2021. The fire began on an upper floor and quickly spread into the cockloft. There were no serious injuries reported at the scene. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

Fire in Flatbush FDNY Engine Company 255 and Ladder 157 arrived to heavy fire conditions in the attic of a three-story vacant house on Farragut Road in Flatbush. Units used two lines to knock down the fire. Overhaul was done by Tower Ladder 157 as they opened up the exterior of the attic. - Fire News photo by Lloyd Mitchell

East New York All-Hands FDNY companies in the East New York section of Brooklyn operated at an all-hands assignment in a private dwelling on New Jersey Avenue near Sutter Avenue on December 28, 2020. Firefighters removed one occupant from the blaze. The fire was located in the basement and on the first floor of the attached dwelling. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

Flames Destroy East Village Church East Village companies responded to a fire on the first floor of a five-story vacant building on East 7th Street. Units encountered heavy fire from the first floor of the vacant building and the adjacent 128-year-old Middle Collegiate Church just after 0500 on December 6, 2020. Units quickly transmitted a second alarm on arrival. A deck gun, blitz nozzle and several tower ladders were put into operation and the fire went to six alarms. The historic church — which housed the New York Liberty Bell (thought to be 25-years older than the Philadelphia bell) — was gutted. - Fire News photo by Lloyd Mitchell

Page 30, Fire News, March 2021

Car vs. Tree

FireNews.com

MVAs

On January 30, 2021, Mahopac Falls Fire, EMS and Fire Police, two units from Carmel Police and a paramedic unit from EMStar were dispatched for a car into a tree MVA at Archer and Wayacross Roads. Chief Jeff Boyle and Assistant Chief Bob Trace took Incident Command as Captain Jason Stasiak took charge of Operations and Safety. Fire Police immediately closed the road. EMTs triaged the occupants and opted to transport one person for further evaluation to Hudson Valley Hospital. Carmel Police officers Kloskowski and Fox tended to their scene investigation as a flatbed from Valley Towing began the task of winching the vehicle back to the roadway. - Fire News photo by Jack Casey, PIO

Young Woman Airlifted in Schenectady

On December 28, 2020, Schenectady firefighters worked with two sets of rescue tools for nearly an hour to free a young woman from her SUV after she was struck head on by a driver traveling, with no headlights, eastbound in the westbound lane of Interstate 890 near the Michigan Avenue exit. A LifeNet helicopter landed on the closed interstate to transport the injured driver to Albany Medical Center. The driver of the striking SUV was taken to Ellis Hospital for non-life-threatening injuries and charged with DWI. - Fire News photo by Peter Barber

Car Hits House In Albany County

On December 9, 2020, Colonie firefighters responded to a call for a car into a house on Lisha Kill Road. The driver of a sedan lost control and crashed through the front wall of an occupied house. The driver refused medical treatment and no one in the house was injured. - Fire News photo by Peter Barber

Overturn in Schenectady

On December 3, 2020, Schenectady firefighter Anthony Catalfamo climbed a step ladder to attempt to release the hood to disconnect the battery after the driver lost control and hit a tree then rolled onto its side. The driver self-extricated and was evaluated for injuries at the scene. - Fire News photo by Peter Barber

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Fire News, March 2021, Page 31

Page 32, Fire News, March 2021

Mahopac Falls Carries on a Holiday Tradition

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Go Buffalo Bills

The Bellevue Fire Company in front of Buffalo City Hall where huge banners were erected to show support for the Bills on an upcoming Fan Video Shoot. Bellevue took their truck down in their Bills gear to show support for the team. - Fire News photo by Gabe Casucci

Fire Prevention Class Pays Off

In December of 2020, a little rain was not going to deter the members of the Mahopac Falls Fire Department from carrying on a holiday tradition that is held close to the hearts of all. Social distancing and masks were evident and practiced by all who entered the grounds, but did not dampen the sense of family enjoyed by the members of the Ant Hill Mob. A little past 1900, Mahopac Falls fire base was notified that our special guest was aboard one of our pumpers and en route to headquarters for the Annual Tree Lighting. This year would be different, and our community was asked to enjoy the evening virtually. Cameras were set up and the arrival of Santa to light the tree was broadcast live. After answering some questions sent in by children in the community, Santa stepped over to the corner wonderland and began the countdown before throwing the switch, bringing days of hard work by Stan Zalesny and his band of elves (MFVFD Firefighters and EMTs) to life. - Fire News photos by Jack Casey

On January 23, 2021, the Mahopac Fire Department rolled out on a special call to a private residence on Kia Ora Boulevard in the eastern section of the district. With the chief’s car and a first-due engine from headquarters pulling up in front of the home of Amaya Lim, the birthday girl thought it might be a drive-by for her birthday. Once stopped, out came Sparky the Fire Dog and Chief Jim Stasiak, who presented Amaya with a certificate for going “Above and Beyond” when her young brother stopped breathing in their home as she was getting ready for school. As her mom and grandmother, both nurses, tended to the youngster, Amaya dialed 911 and stayed on the phone with the dispatcher, answering questions and relaying updates from mom. When asked how she could do what she did, Amaya said that it was what she learned at Fire Prevention events, starting in kindergarten. The fire department wanted to reinforce how important Fire Prevention is to the next generation and Amaya, now a fifth grader at Lakeview School, is a shining star to her family and fire department alike. - Fire News photo by Jack Casey

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Fire News, March 2021, Page 33

Fatal Crash in Niskayuna

Fatal Head-on in Rotterdam

On October 23, 2020, Niskayuna Fire District 1 paramedics responded to an accident involving a tractor-trailer and a sedan at the intersection of Route 7 and Union Street. Two occupants of the car were taken to Albany Medical Center and a back-seat passenger was taken to Ellis Hospital in trauma arrest. He was declared dead on arrival at the hospital. The driver of the truck was not injured. - Fire News photo by Peter Barber

On November 1, 2020, Carman firefighters used a hydraulic rescue tool to free the driver of a pickup that hit an SUV head-on, killing the driver instantly, on Hamburg Street between Glengary Road and Chism Street. The driver of the pickup was taken by LifeNet helicopter to Albany Medical Center for treatment. He was charged with vehicular manslaughter and felony driving while intoxicated. - Fire News photo by Peter Barber

Page 34, Fire News, March 2021

Pellet Stove Starts House Fire in Athens

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Cairo House Fire

The Athens Fire Department, along with West Athens Lime Street Fire were dispatched to a chimney fire on North Washington Street in the upper village. Chief of Department Wayne Butterworth arrived to a chimney fire with extension in the wall, and sounded a second alarm for manpower from Catskill and Coxsackie and City of Hudson for standby. The residents were assisted out of the building as they were trying to retrieve their cats. The Town of Catskill ambulance and a Greene County paramedic are automatically dispatched to structure related calls. Village of Athens Police were also called. Washington Street (State Rt. 385) was closed for several hours as fire units worked at the scene. A large diameter hose was laid down South Street to the Hudson River for water. The fire was brought under control quickly. A pellet stove was the fire source. - Fire News photo by John C. Miller

The Cairo Fire Department was recently dispatched to a house fire on Route 20. Upon arrival Cairo Fire Chief Ray Feml called for mutual aid from 10 departments, either at the scene or standing by. Five occupants and several dogs got out of the house safely. The fire was brought under control in about an hour, but the home had extensive fire damage. The cause was electrical in nature. - Fire News photo by John C. Miller

Fire Extends in Rochester

Fire Leaves 9 Homeless

Just after 1500 on January 13, 2021, Rochester firefighters at Station 5 were alerted for a structure fire next door to the firehouse on Lyell Avenue. As the engine crew opened the bay door, they were met with heavy smoke showing from dwelling. Two people jumped from the roof to escape the rapidly spreading flames as firefighters got to the house. Lines were stretched and companies were able to make quick work of the fire which had extended from the first floor to the attic of the dwelling. - Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com

On February 1, 2021, Schenectady firefighters battled a house fire on Wyoming Avenue after fire was seen coming from the windows of an A side bedroom. Two boys were home at the time and escaped the burning structure safely. The cause of the fire was under investigation. - Fire News photo by Peter Barber