Fire News New York State, July 2023

In this issue...

Working Fire in the Village of Sloatsburg

The Sloatsburg Fire Department responded to multiple 911 calls reporting a structure fire.

See story on page 5

6 Displaced by Newburgh 2-Alarmer

The City of Newburgh Fire Department operated at a second alarm that left six people homeless.

See story on page 8

Amsterdam Goes to Work

The Amsterdam Fire Department responded to a structure fire.

See story on page 11

Quick Stop at Apartment Fire

On arrival, companies found heavy fire showing from a window of a four-story taxpayer.

See story on page 22

2-Alarm Fire Rips Through Foster Ave. Home

Schenectady firefighters battled the second of two two-alarm fires on Foster Avenue.

See story on page 34

Fatality in Schodack Landing Fire

Fire companies responded to a fourapartment home where they found a heavy fire condition.

See story on page 42

AService for New York State Firefighters and EMS Heroes

146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY11713

FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher

TIM EDWARDS, Chief Operating Officer

DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor

GARYP. JOYCE, Managing Editor

MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production/Sales

LYNN SEDLER, Art Director

CLIFF CHIESA, Production Manager

BARBARACONNOLLY, Vice President National Sales

BRYAN LOPEZ, Editorial Assistant

GREGORYJONES, Graphic Artist

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.

Columnists: Bruce Johnson, John Salka

COPYRIGHT2023, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEWYORK. ALLRIGHTS RESERVED For advertising rates and information, call (631) 776-0500 Press 3

Editorial: (631) 776-0500 Ext 281

Fax number: (631) 286-6866

Internet: http://www.firenews.com

Email:nys@firenews.com

Thirteen Editions, Sixteen States Serving Long Island, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, Kentucky, Maryland, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington DC, West Virginia, and Wildwood, NJ

Proud Member Of:

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.

From the Editor’s Desk

Dennis Whittam, Editor

When Does Training End?

I recently overheard a conversation between two firefighters who were talking about all of the experience they had in their department. I looked up and asked, “how many years have you been in the department?” I actually chuckled when I was told by one of the members that he had six years of experience in the fire service. I am willing to bet that as you read my last sentence, you too have a smile on your face. Truthfully, being a first responder is a job that requires constant training and practice from your first day on the job until your last.

Years of service does not necessarily qualify you to say that you are an experienced responder. This time of the year, I get nervous because we are entering brush fire season. Let’s face it, many firefighters have very little experience fighting brush fires. I am sure if you have been in the fire service for a few years, you have encountered a brush fire that might appear large to you upon arrival, but in reality it was a small fire that was quickly knocked down by two or three members who were lucky enough to be part of the crew on the brush truck. The fire that I worry about is the wind-driven brush fire that manages to take advantage of the strong winds of spring and runs through an area like a freight

train. The next time you sit in your ready room, share stories of brush fires of the past that have challenged your department.

Training never ends. All responders need to know every aspect of their job. Are you able to perform your job when the conditions get rough? Ask yourself if you are truly physically fit to perform under challenging conditions. Kudos to those members that go to the gym regularly to maintain their fitness and cardio performance.

Are you a student of your craft? Do you read articles that talk about recent fires or new products? When was the last time you came down to the firehouse and took a short rope and performed some of the basic knots with which you’re supposed to be proficient? Do you know how to use that knot to quickly hoist a line or a tool to a roof? If you think you can, challenge yourself and do it! Talking about forcing a door is not the same as doing it. Don’t wait for the yearly drill on a specific tool. You must remain proficient in the techniques and operations that you use every day.

Regardless of your years of experience, your current rank or your rank from the past, lead by example. Remain dedicated to your job. Study, practice, try new things, and ask

questions! Astory of the past that is shared with one another means nothing if it does not end with a lesson being shared and learned by others.

When the alarm sounds, respond to the call with enthusiasm. If you miss the truck, stay at the firehouse until the truck returns. Offer to fill bottles, wash tools, and hear the story about the call.

When does training end? I say never!

- Dennis

Working Fire in the Village of Sloatsburg

The Sloatsburg Fire Department responded to multiple 911 calls reporting a possible structure fire on Grant Street in the Vill age of Sloatsburg on May 7, 2023. As firefighters responded, the call was updated to a working fire due to additional reports from the scene. When they arrived, firefighters faced an already advanced fire, with worsening conditions at the rearof a two-story home, and the fire rapidly extending through the rest of the structure. An interior

attack, coupled with the protection of two similarexposures, was begun and limited any furtherfire. The house, however, was severely damaged. All the residents in the home at the time were able to escape unharmed. At least one firefighterwas injured, suffering a small burn. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation.

- Fire News photos by Kenny Flynn

Cover Story

9 Families Homeless AfterMt. Vernon Blaze

On May 9, 2023, just aftermidnight, the Mt. Vernon Fire Department was dispatched to a fire in a three-story, class-3 mixed-occupancy on Mount Vernon Avenue. Asecond alarm was transmitted on arrival, and then a third, forheavy fire from multiple floors in the rearof the building. The fire quickly spread to two additional exposures on Mount Vernon Avenue. Mutual aid was requested to the scene from Pelham and Eastchester. Nine families were left homeless and the structures needed to be demolished the next day. No injuries were reported.

- Fire News photos by Mike Messar and RJ Suhre

Fire Shows in Port Chester

On May 3, 2023, at around 1336, the Port ChesterFire Department was dispatched to Washington Street fora structure fire. Chief Sposta was first to arrive and had smoke showing from the second floorand transmitted a 10-75. He reported they had fire between the second and third floors of the structure and the fire was spread-

ing into the attic. Engine 38 hit a hydrant on Washington Street. Fourlines were stretched and in operation and knocked down the main body of fire. The fire was underinvestigation by Westchester County Cause and Origin Team.

Displaced by Newburgh 2-Alarmer

were able to knock down the fire in short-order. Newburgh was assisted at the scene by Stewart AirGuard and West Point Fire Department. Cornwall and Good Will provided station coverage during the incident. -

- Fire News photos by Brandon Colon

The City of Newburgh Fire Department operated at a second alarm that occurred early on May 14, 2023, on South Street and Monroe that left six people homeless. Firefighters faced heavy fire throughout the structure on arrival and with the assistance of mutual aid,

Fire News photos by Bill Johnson

CarFire in Gloversville

On May 18, 2023, a carfire was discovered at the Lippert Plant parking lot in Gloversville. The Gloversville Fire Department quickly knocked down the fully involved vehicle. - Fire News photos by Mark Perfetti

Amsterdam Goes to Work

On May 15, 2023, the Amsterdam Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire on Stewart Street. The flames that showed on arrival were quickly knocked down by responding units. The cause of the incident was underinvestigation.

- Fire News photos by Mark Perfetti

MajorDamage at New Hamburg House Fire

The New Hamburg Fire Department, with mutual aid assistance, operated at a residential structure fire on Susan Lane on May 25, 2023. Crews were met with heavy fire from the roof of the structure and began an aggressive interiorattack. Interiorcrews had made good progress, but there was some fire that they could not reach from the interior. The decision was made to pull crews fora few minutes and use elevated streams, which they successfully did. Crews then immediately went back in and completed extinguishment. The fire is believed to have started in the basement, cau sed by

a malfunctioning dehumidifierand caused significant damage. New Hamburgh was assisted by Arlington, Hughsonville, the Village of Fishkill, and the Village of Wappingers. The Town of Poughkeepsie Police, Dutchess Couty Sheriff’s Office, the Dutchess County Department of Emergency Response-Fire Investigation Division, and Central Hudson. New Hackensack provided station coverage during the incident.

- Fire News photos by Bill Johnson

Hughsonville CarFires

Hughsonville firefighters, along with the NYSP-Wappinger, operated at a multiple-vehicles fire in the Hannaford Plaza on the evening of May 8, 2023. Firefighters arrived to find one-vehicle fully involved and a second partially involved, with a third as an exposure. Firefighters went to work extinguishing both vehicles before

the flames could spread. Units remained on the scene forapproximately three hours as members of the Dutchess County Department of Emergency Response-Fire Investigation Division worked to determine the cause of the fire. Fortunately, there were no injuries.

- Fire News photos by Bill Johnson

Rombout TractorTrailerFire

Rombout Fire Department operated at a tractor-trailerfire on May 12, 2023, on the Interstate 84 westbound exit ramp to Route 9 north. Firefighters arrived to find heavy fire in the trailerof a tractortrailerand went to work. Due to the incident’s location and the initial uncertainty of the trailer’s contents, a tankertask force was requested, which included units from Dutchess, Orange and Putnam counties. The trailerwas found to contain bundles of recy-

cled plastic, and fortunately, firefighters were able to extinguish the fire relatively quickly with minimal water. Rombout was assisted at the scene by the Village of Fishkill, East Fishkill, Glenham, Hughsonville, New Hackensack, North Highlands, Coldenham, Orange Lake, NYSP, and the NYS DOT.

- Fire News photos by Bill Johnson

Basement Fire KO’d on Kings Hwy.

Firefighters acting as 38 Battalion companies removed an occupant from a basement fire on Kings Highway, as members were operating at a fire on East 51st Street. Members used two hoselines to

knock down the fire in the basement of a three-story home on May 23, 2023.

- Fire News photos by Lloyd Mitchell

Two Alarmerin Crown Heights

Firefighters in the Crown Heights section of Brooklyn continued theirhot streak, responding to theirsecond multiple-alarm fire in 12 hours on May 24, 2023. Battalion 38 transmitted a 10-75 forfire throughout a vacant building on Brooklyn Avenue. Members were withdrawn from the building and a collapse zone was set up. At the height of the fire, units used a deck gun, three hoselines and two towerladders to knock down the heavy fire conditions.

- Fire News photos by Lloyd Mitchell

Cooking Oil Left on Stove in Niskayuna

On April 21, 2023, Niskayuna Fire District 1 firefighters battled a two-alarm fire on Algonquin Avenue, afterfire was discovered at around 1630. Upon arrival, flames were venting from a kitchen window on the D-side of the 1-1/2 story dwelling. City of Schenectady

Engine 2 and Truck 2 along with volunteers from Niskayuna Fire District 2 assisted at the scene. No injuries were reported.

- Fire News photos by Peter R. Barber

House Fire Leaves 15 Homeless

On April 14, 2023, Schenectady firefighters battled a two-alarm fire on Van Vranken Avenue afterfire was discovered shortly after0100. The fire started in the rearof the structure and quickly spread to

the upperfloors. No injuries were reported forthe incident; however, 15 occupants were left homeless.

- Fire News photos by Peter R. Barber

Electrical Fire at Pizza Parlor Flames Halted in Colonie

Recently, as people were calling in theirdinnerorders to Mama’s Pizza in West Crescent, an electrical fire broke out in the bac k room. West Crescent, Clifton Park, Halfmoon, Waterford and Boght were called to the scene. The back wall underthe electric al access was opened with saws and axes. The building was saved with minimal damage.

- Fire News photo by Lori Washburn

The quick action of Colonie Village, FullerRoad, ShakerRoadLoudonville and Boght fire departments on April 10, 2023, helped to prevent a garage fire on PeterDrive from extending to the home. The fire was extinguished with minimal damage.

- Fire News photo by Lori Washburn

Garage Fire Spreads in Mendon

East Rochester Fire KO’d

On the afternoon of April 4, 2023, Mendon firefighters were dispatched to Chorley Wood Court fora garage fire. First arriving units found heavy fire coming from an attached garage which was rapidly spreading to the dwelling with the assistance of high winds. Crews quickly stretched lines but were forced defensive due to the extreme amount of fire. Large lines were set up along with two masterstreams. Numerous brush fires started due to embers coming from the home.

- Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com

On the morning of March 31, 2023, East Rochesterfirefighters were dispatched to East Chestnut fora report of a fire. On arrival, companies found smoke showing from the first floorof a dwelling and quickly stretched lines. Firefighters made entry and quickly knocked down the fire before checking forany possible extension. The fire was brought undercontrol a short time later.

- Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com

Schenectady

Quick Stop at Apartment Fire

- Fire News photo by Peter R. Barber

On March 28, 2023, Schenectady firefighters responded to a rolloverMVAat the intersection of Dean Street and The Plaza. All occupants self-extricated from the rolled overSUVand all declined treatment. The SUVdriverwas cited forfailure to yield the right of way at an intersection.

In the evening of March 22, 2023, Rochesterfirefighters responded to a report of a fire on Monroe Avenue. On arrival, companies found heavy fire showing from a window of a four-story taxpayer. Crews stretched lines and a second alarm was struck due to the amount of fire showing and size of the building. Firefighters were able to quickly make the fire apartment and knock down the main body of fire, keeping the damage contained to the apartment.

- Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com

Occupants Rescued in Crown Heights All-Hands

Rescue at All-Hands in East Flatbush

Residents rescued three occupants from an apartment fire on Union Street in the Crown Heights section of Brooklyn on May 21, 2023 Firefighters arrived to fire on the second and third floors of an

apartment building. Units used three hoselines to knock down the fire and bring the all-hands blaze undercontrol.

- Fire News photos by Lloyd Mitchell

Firefighters responded to a fire in a private dwelling on East 51st Street in East Flatbush. Units rescued an occupant and anotherwas forced by the fire to jump out of the window. Engine Company 310

and Ladder174 were met with fire at the front door.

- Fire News photos by Lloyd Mitchell

Orange County CarShow a Hit

Winona Lake FD Holds CarShow

On May 21, 2023, the Orange County VolunteerFire Police held theirsixth annual carshow at Goshen race track. It was a beautiful day to see over200 cars that came out to support the event. - Fire News photos by Vinnie Dominick

On May 7, 2023, the Winona Lake Fire Department held their7th Annual CarShow at Stop & Shop. You could not have asked fora more beautiful day as cars from the past were on display foreveryone to see.

- Fire News photos by Vinnie Dominick

WaterRescue Drill in Schenectady County

On the morning of May 6, 2023, the Schenectady County Water Task Force held a waterrescue drill. Niskayuna 2 brought their 2022 Diamondback Airboat, which was placed into service in April. Scotia Fire, Beukendaal, Schenectady County Sheriff, Alpaus, Schonowe, Rotterdam Junction and Schenectady Fire were just a few of the departments that participated in day’s events. Throughout the morning each department was given a scenario and person to rescue. - Fire News photos by Lori Washburn

3rd-FloorFire in Borough Park

Engine Company 250 transmitted an urgent 10-75 forheavy fire out the third-floorwindows of a home on 43rd Street on May, 21, 2023. Units also had reports of children trapped on the third floorbut, thankfully, searches were negative.

- Fire News photos by Lloyd Mitchell

All Hands Operate in South Richmond Hill

Firefighters in the South Richmond Hill section of Queens battled an all-hands blaze in a private dwelling on 101st Avenue near134th Street on May 4, 2023 The fire was brought undercontrol without incident.

- Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

6

Injured at Cypress Hills Fire

Flames Show in Queens

Engine Company 332 and Ladder175 transmitted an all-hands for fire on the second floorof a five-story, multi-dwelling at around 2200 on May 21, 2023. Upon arrival, firefighters found residents hanging out of the windows. Units reported an E-bike was on fire at the location. Six residents and a cat suffered injuries as a result of the fire.

FDNYcompanies in Queens battled an all-hands blaze on the second floorof a private dwelling on 173rd Street near140th Avenue on May 14, 2023. The fire was knocked down without incident.

- Fire News photos by Lloyd Mitchell

- Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

Under-the-Bridge Fire in Newburgh

Newburgh firefighters, along with Cornwall on Hudson and Middle Hope, Town of Newburgh EMS, the City and Town of Newburgh Police, and the NYSP, operated at a pickup truck on fire on the CSX rail tracks on the shore of the Hudson River. The incident was directly underthe westbound span of the Newburgh-Beacon Bridge and occurred as Newburgh also operated at a structure fire on South MillerStreet. There were numerous conflicting reports of the incident and its location, and it was eventually located in the Middle

Hope Fire District. Apparently, a male had driven a Dodge pickup along the CSX rail tracks and lost control of the vehicle, which sent it down a steep embankment where it caught fire. Witnesses reported seeing the driverflee the scene immediately afterthe crash. Firefighters had difficulty accessing the vehicle, and supplying waterto extinguish the fire was also an issue due to the remote location.

- Fire News photos by Bill Johnson

2-Alarm Fire Rips Through FosterAve. Home

Schenectady firefighters battled the second of two two-alarm fires on June 1, 2023, on FosterAvenue. Flames engulfed the rearof the two-family house and began spreading to a neighboring structure. All occupants escaped safely and no immediate cause was given.

- Fire News photos by Peter R. Barber

Brush Fire Spreads to Two Homes

On June 1, 2023, Schenectady firefighters responded to a brush fire behind a Ward Avenue home only to find the fire spread to neighboring back yards and igniting one of the houses. Two alarms were

sounded to bring the blaze undercontrol. No injuries were reported.

- Fire News photos by Peter R. Barber

NeverForget

Yonkers Marches on St Patrick’s Day

NYC firefighters carry 343 American flags past St. Patrick’s Cathedral during the NYC St. Patrick’s Day parade on March 17, 2023. The flags honorthe 343 FDNYfirefighters killed on 9-11.

St Patrick’s Day with Yonkers

Members of the Yonkers Fire Department at the Savannah St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

- Fire News photo by Shane Shifflett

- Fire News photo by Brian Grogan

Yonkers Fire at the Savannah (GA) St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

- Fire News photos by Shane Shifflett

COASTALFIRE SYSTEMS JOINS MES

Municipal Emergency Services (MES, Inc.) has recently made an important acquisition, bringing Long Island-based equipment and service provider Coastal Fire Systems, Inc., under its umbrella. The acquisition was completed on October 13, 2022, solidifying MES’s presence in the region.

Established in 2005, Coastal Fire Systems has emerged as the go-to sales and service provider for 3M Scott products, catering to municipalities and volunteer fire departments across Long Island, New York. The company has garnered a reputation for its exceptional customer service and a team of knowledgeable sales professionals and service technicians.

Expressing enthusiasm for the acquisition, Tom Hubregsen, CEO of MES, stated, “We are thrilled to welcome the Coastal Fire Sy stems team into the MES family. Our shared commitment to customer ser vice, along with their experienced sales professionals and servi ce technicians, make Coastal Fire Systems a perfect fit for MES.” The addition of Coastal Fire Systems expands MES’s capabilities and

enhances its ability to serve its growing customer base.

MES/Coastal takes great pride in joining forces to deliver exceptional equipment sales and service. Our expertise encompasses a range of areas, including Hydrostatic Cylinder Testing, 3M Scott SCBASales and Service, Premium Turnout Gear Sales, Uniform Sales and Service, and more. To explore these offerings or get in touch with our dedicated team, we invite you to contact us today at: customercare@mesfire.com or 631-661-7515.

WHYYOU SHOULD ATTEND IAFC’S FIRE-RESCUE INTERNATIONAL

Staying ahead in the fire and emergency service industry requires continuous learning and networking. That’s why attending the International Association of Fire Chiefs’(IAFC) Fire-Rescue International (FRI) conference is an invaluable opportunity. This year, we’re heading to Kansas City, Missouri at the Kansas City Convention Center, August 16 - 18, 2023, to learn, network and collaborate.

• Professional Development and Education: At FRI, participants have access to a diverse range of educational sessions, workshops and presentations led by industry experts. FRI offers valuable insights on the latest firefighting techniques, leadership strategies and technological advancements. From hands-on training to interactive discussions, the conference equips attendees with practical knowledge to enhance their professional skills and contribute to their organizations’success.

• Networking and Collaboration: FRI brings together fire service professionals from around the world, creating a dynamic environment for networking and collaboration The conference provides opportunities to connect with industry peers, leaders and vendors. Attendees can exchange ideas, share best practices and build meaningful relationships. These connections can lead to collaborations on projects, mentorship opportunities, and

even potential career advancements. FRI’s social events and networking lounges further facilitate relationship-building.

Innovative Solutions: One of the highlights of FRI is the expansive exhibit hall, showcasing the latest products, services, an d technologies in the fire and emergency service sector. Attendees ca n explore a wide array of cutting-edge equipment, apparatus, software, and firefighting tools. This exposure to innovative solutions enables fire service professionals to stay updated with industry trends and identify advancements that can improve their department’s efficiency and effectiveness. Moreover, exhibitors often offer demonstrations and hands-on experiences, allowing attendees to test and evaluate products firsthand.

Plus, this year we will be celebrating IAFC’s 150th Anniversary at FRI!

Attending FRI is an investment in your professional growth and the advancement of the fire and emergency service industry. By participating in this memorable even t, you position yourself at the forefront of industry knowledge and foster connections that can have a lasting impact on your career. Lear n more and register today.

FDNYFundraising fora Cause

Multiple-Vehicle Fire in Schenectady

Schenectady firefighters responded to multiple calls of several cars burning at Interstate Towing on Kings Road on May 26, 2023. Three vehicles and a U-Haul truck were completely engulfed in flames. Truck 2’s towerladderwas utilized to bring the fire under control. Volunteers from neighboring Carman Fire Department in Rotterdam were initially dispatched but assisted SFD at the scene.

Members of FDNYRescue Company 2 pose fora photo with Kristina Moon, widow of fallen FirefighterWilliam ‘Billy’Moon, while selling T-shirts at the 2023 Long Island Fire & EMS Mega Show to benefit the Billy Moon Foundation. FirefighterMoon died during a training accident at his Brooklyn firehouse in December of 2022. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez

- Fire News photo by Peter R. Barber

FFDay at the Home in Hudson

May 21, 2023, was Dutchess County VolunteerFirefighters Day at the Firefighters Home in Hudson. It was the first time that firefighters from Dutchess County and members from the home could see each otherwithout Covid masks. It was great to see the smiles on the members at the home and the firefighters. The Dutchess County VolunteerFirefighters provided a traditional barbecue of hamburgers, cheeseburgers and hotdogs with all of the fixings. At the end of lunch, a ceremony was held, and donations were presented by the Dutchess County VolunteerFirefighters for$500, Hughsonville Fire Department for$100 and the Rombout Fire Department for$1000.

The Dutchess County VolunteerFirefighters Association would like to thank the following that made the day a success: East Fishkill FD, Hughsonville FD, J.H. Ketcham Hose Company, New Hackensack FD, New Hamburg FD, Rhinebeck FD, Rombout FD and the Wassaic FD. Also, they would like to thank Keith Hinchey Home Administrator, Kelly Johnson Directorof Dining services and they entire staff that helped that day. Finally, thanks to all of the Dutchess County firefighters who came out and shared theirtime with the members at the Firefighters Home.

- Fire News photos by Vincent Galvin, DCVFFA

HomerFire Department Celebrating 150 years of Service!

July 22, 2023 at 1200

45 South Main St, Homer, NY13077

The HomerFire Department was established in 1873 by a group of dedicated and passionate individuals. That tradition carries on today with the all-volunteerfire department serving the community. This celebration will be in conjunction with the Central NYFirefighters Association annual convention, July 21 to 23, 2023, hosted by the HomerFire Department. We hope to see you there!

Fatality in Schodack Landing Fire

On May 19, 2023, 20 fire companies responded to a four-apartment home just south of Castleton on RiverRoad. They found a heavy fire condition and were told one male was still inside. He was found

Villa Lane House Fully Involved on Arrival

The La Grange Fire Department, along with theirmutual aid partners, operated at a structure fire in a house underconstruction on Villa Lane, which occurred minutes before midnight on May 17, 2023. Firefighters arrived to find heavy fire in the rearof the structure, and within minutes, the structure was completely involved. The fire was so intense the traveling embers started numerous brush fires overa wide area, and the embers/radiant heat started

fires in treetops around the structure. Crews also had to contend with a high-pressure natural gas leak on the side of the structure. Mutual aid came from City of Poughkeepsie, Arlington, East Fishkill, New Hackensack, Roosevelt, and Union Vale, as well as the NYSP, Dutchess County Sherriff’s Office, and the Dutchess County Department of Emergency Response Fire Investigation Division.

aftermidnight. The fire was so hot it melted the siding across the road. The large single-family home was nearly 100 years old.

- Fire News photos by Martin E. Miller

- Fire News photos by Bill Johnson