VOLUME 7, NO. 7
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes In NY State MAY 2014
On March 12, 2014, eight people were killed and seventy injured in a massive gas explosion. See page 6 for details. -Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Fire News reminds everyone to stay hydrated during brush fire season. – New York State Edition –
Page 2, Fire News, May 2014
FireNews.com
FireNews.com
Fire News, May 2014, Page 3
In this issue... Two Alarmer Beat in Schenectady
Schenectady firefighters were summoned by a caller for a house fire on 8th Avenue. See story on page 7
Verbal Alarm Transmitted in the Bronx FDNY TL-33 transmitted a verbal alarm for a fire in a one-story taxpayer.
See story on page 13
Lt. Stephen M. Gregory Answers Last Alarm
The Clinton Heights F.D. paid farewell to 97-year-old member and retired FDNY Lt Stephen M. Gregory. See story on page 19
Team Effort Saves Horse
Firefighters and a cold water rescue team responded to Sunrise Hill Farm to rescue a horse that had fallen through the ice. See story on page 21
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, Asst. Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production/Sales LYNN SEDLER, Art Director CLIFF CHIESA, Production Manager Advertising Sales: BARBARA CONNOLLY, EVELYN ALOISIO 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, 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, 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
Problems Overcome in Slingerlands
Firefighters from Slingerlands tried to save a house at the end of a one mile dirt road. See story on page 25
Ex-Chief Amos J. Bastiani Mourned in Delmar Former Fire Chief Amos J. Bastiani passed away on February 19, 2014, after a long battle with cancer.
COPYRIGHT 2014, THE FIRE NEWS LLC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
For advertising rates and information, call (631) 776-0500 Press 3 Editorial: (631) 776-0500 Ext 280 Fax number: (631) 776-1854 Internet: http://www.firenews.com Email:nys@firenews.com
Six Editions Serving Long Island, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Pennsylvania Proud Member Of:
See story on page 26
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 4 Announcements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 5 Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 16 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 18 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 28 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 29
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 LLC, with corporate offices at 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713.
Page 4, Fire News, May 2014
FireNews.com
From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
How’s it Going? Our new company officers, for the most part, have been in office for three to four months. I'd like to ask these new officers a simple question; how's it going? Have you found that sitting in the front seat is only a small part of being a good officer? That is the fun part! It is where you get to see your crews in action. It is where the public sees their heroes perform professionally. For the most part, the public does not know how much you have trained to perform so flawlessly. Are things going well for you? Is your company coming out for you at two or three in the morning? Are you leading by example? Are you listening to senior members and asking for advice when you feel things are not going well? Are you there for your members? If you are doing a good job, members will confide in you and ask for help. Senior members are never afraid to offer advice if they know you respect their input. As a new officer, it is hard to stand back and watch members perform a task with which they are having difficulty. Have you wanted to rip a halligan out of someone's hand because they couldn't force the truck or hood at a car fire? Taking over tells the guys
they are not needed and they may decide to withdraw because they were embarrassed. Nodding to a seasoned member to step in to help with the problem shows you are looking to get the job done quickly and safely. What is your next step? A good officer may run an extra drill or set up training scenario to work with the members who need a little extra practice at tasks they don't get to do on a regular basis. Don't embarrass anyone who makes a mistake. Encourage extra training. As the company officer, be there for your company. What goes through a probationary member's mind when they don't see you at work details, drill training and calls? I'll bet they think it is OK for them since you are not there either. As a new officer, you are responsible for all of your company committees. Reminding members of meetings is probably a good idea. Make a call, send a text or e-mail to remind members of the meeting. In the end, every successful officer I have known has led by a positive example. Are you building a trusting bond as the head of your new family? …Dennis
20 SHOWS
WITH BONUS DISTRIBUTION JANUARY Issue
FDSOA - Lake Buena Vista, FL
FEBRUARY Issue
Lt. Andy Fredericks Memorial Seminar - Tarrytown, NY EMS Today - Washington, DC
MARCH Issue
LI Fire & EMS Mega Show - Uniondale, NY
❏ $39 ONE YEAR
❏ NEW ❏ RENEWAL
(12 issues)
plus $10.00 for out of state
❏ NEW YORK STATE ❏ LONG ISLAND ❏ NEW JERSEY
❏ $69 TWO YEARS (24 ISSUES)
plus $20.00 for out of state
❏ $89 THREE YEARS (36 ISSUES)
plus $30.00 for out of state
Outside US call for prices.
MAIL TO:
Accepted
Fire News · 146 South Country Rd. · Bellport · NY 11713 Name _________________________________________ Address ________________________________________ City ___________________________________________ State____________________________Zip ___ Phone # (_____) _________________________________ E-mail __________________________________________ Credit Card No: ______-______-______-______ Exp. __________ V -Code (3 digit code from back of card) ____________
Call 631-776-0500 Ext. 1 Fax 631-286-6866
APRIL Issue
FDIC - Indianapolis, IN
MAY Issue
West Patterson Fire Show - Paterson, NJ CFSI Annual Dinner, DC
JUNE Issue
Connecticut EMS Expo – Mohegan Sun, CT Harrisburg Fire Expo - Harrisburg, PA
JULY Issue
NYS Fire Chiefs - Turning Stone, NY Maryland State Firemen’s Convention - Ocean City, MD Delaware Fire Chiefs Expo New England Fire Chiefs - Springfield, MA
AUGUST Issue
FireHouse Expo - Baltimore, MD
SEPTEMBER Issue
IAFC - Dallas, TX FASNY - Albany, NY NJ State Firemen’s Convention - Wildwood, NJ Delaware Volunteer Firefighter’s Conference - Dover, DE
NOVEMBER Issue
NYS Fire Districts - Ellenville, NY International Conference for Fire & Rescue Executives
* Trade Show Calendar Subject to Change
FireNews.com
Endicott Battles Hoarding Conditions at Basement Fire
On March 18, 2014, Broome County Communications dispatched Endicott Fire for a reported basement fire on Roosevelt Avenue in the village. An aggressive interior attack was initiated by the on duty crews. Lines were stretched initially to the basement and later to each floor to attack the fire. As crews advanced into the structure they encountered severe hoarding conditions on all four floors of the structure. Firefighters were assisted on scene by Union Ambulance, Endicott Police, Endicott police Auxiliary, Endicott DPW, Town of Union, and NYSEG. -Fire News photo by Nick Griswold
Fire News, May 2014, Page 5
ANNOUNCEMENTS FASNY LAUNCHES FIRST EVER “SECTIONAL CHALLENGE� AS PART OF RECRUITNY INITIATIVE As part of its upcoming RecruitNY campaign, the Firemen's Association of the State of New York (FASNY) has launched a first-of-its kind "Sectional Challenge," which tracks fire department recruitment efforts throughout the state. The new, online competition measures participation by region and has already spurred some friendly competition among fire departments hosting RecruitNY events. The overall goal of the "Challenge" is to drive interest in RecruitNY and ultimately attract new members to join the volunteer fire service, which has seen numbers decline in recent years. "After seeing the tremendous participation we had the past three years and the friendly rivalry that developed among different regions throughout the state, we decided to create this new official challenge," said FASNY President James Burns. "Although there is no prize except for bragging rights, everybody wins if we boost the number of volunteer firefighters in our state." FASNY's Sectional Challenge was conceived and is managed by ABC Creative Group, an award winning Syracuse-based marketing firm, which has been a key FASNY partner in all RecruitNY efforts. Building on the record breaking number of fire departments that participated in RecruitNY last year, and noticing that there was friendly competition among the various regions across the State, ABC and FASNY decided to officially launch the challenge. The participation level is based on the percentage of fire departments that sign up to participate from a given region. The hope is that as more departments hear about the challenge, they will sign up to host RecruitNY events and ultimately boost the ranks among volunteer firefighters statewide. Members of the public as well as firefighters can track progress here: http://www.recruitny.org/challenge.php
Page 6, Fire News, May 2014
FireNews.com
Eight Killed, 70 Injured in East Harlem Explosion
On March 12, 2014, approximately eight people were killed and seventy injured in a massive gas explosion that occurred in a building in East Harlem. Authorities say they think a gas leak was to blame, but they had not determined an official cause at the time of this article. The massive explosion and fire leveled two five-story apartment buildings. -Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
MINERVA
BUNKER GEAR CLEANERS Proud Supporter of:
Fully NFPA 1851 Compliant • Third Party Verified • The Largest Facility in the Country Devoted Exclusively to Bunker Gear • Fastest Turnaround Time in the Industry • Free Return Shipping • We Handle All HAZMAT Situations • Exclusive Cleaning and Repair Facility for the F.D.N.Y
888.928.6537 Toll Free / www.bunkergearcleaners.com
FireNews.com
Fire News, May 2014, Page 7
Two Alarmer Beat in Schenectady
Schenectady firefighters were summoned by a third party 911 call from the New York State Police for a house fire on 8th Avenue in the city's Mont Pleasant section. E3 was first to arrive and requested a second alarm assignment to battle the flames. The fire began in the attic around a stove pipe. Two firefighters were injured fighting the fire and were treated at a local hospital. -Fire News photos by Peter Barber
“Shining a New Light on Service”
Battery operated Pelican LED Scene Lighting • No Gasoline, Oil, fumes, hard starting, noise or vibration • No extension cords, tripping hazards, electrocution concerns • No rig maneuvering, flashlight holding, blown bulbs
Just sit it where you need it and turn it on 2-Settings: Low 1000 Lumens 15-Hrs High 2000 Lumens 8-Hours Standard with 115 Volt automatic charger. Optional tri-pod and 12VDC charger available.
$639 Phone: 631-661-7515 www.CoastalFireSystems.com
Page 8, Fire News, May 2014
FireNews.com
Flames Claim Life in Utica
On March 9, 2014, an alarm of fire at 1508 Dudley Avenue was dispatched to the Utica Fire Department. As crews arrived, they found smoke and flames coming from the second floor of the structure. Responders were informed that an infant was trapped in an upstairs bedroom. Aggressive efforts were made to get to the child. First Responders were met with heavy flames and were unable to rescue the five month old infant. A second alarm assignment had been dispatched for the blaze as an intense, aggressive attack was made on the fire. Utica firefighters made a valiant effort in this unfortunate situation. The other occupants made it out safely. The father sustained minor injuries from trying to get to the infant. The community offered much support to the family. The heroic operations were led by Chief Russell Brooks. -Fire News photos by Jack Zwijacz
FireNews.com
Fire News, May 2014, Page 9
Albany Fire Claims Life
On March 10, 2014, the Albany Fire Department responded to a house fire on Adirondack Drive at around 0920. Upon arrival firefighters, found heavy fire blowing out of the attached garage door. They were informed that there were people still in the home. Firefighters found a woman in her bedroom who had no pulse and was not breathing. Albany Fire Department Paramedics and EMT's began CPR and advanced medical care. It was reported that a man in the home passed a child out of the back window before crawling out of the window himself. He suffered a large laceration on his
thigh. The man was transported to the Albany Medical Center. Chief Abriel said that the woman suffered burns on 80 percent of her body and her airways. She was transported to the Albany Medical Center, and later died of her injuries. Firefighters made quick work extinguishing the flames. The fire caused extensive damage to the home. Albany Fire and Police Department investigators with assistance from the New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control were on the scene looking for the cause. -Fire News photo by Tom Heffernan
Page 10, Fire News, May 2014
FireNews.com
Smoke Fills Senior Center in Whitesboro
On March 11, 2014, the Whitesboro Fire Department received an alarm of fire at the Mary D. Buck Apartment Building at 10 Clinton Street. The complex is eight stories tall with 120 housing units for senior citizens. Arriving responders found heavy smoke coming from a first floor apartment. Evacuation of the residents began immediately. Mutual Aid calls went out to nearby departments. More than 100 residents were taken to safety, many in wheel chairs. The fire in the apartment where it began was attacked quickly and contained. Heavy smoke had filled the building leading to the evacuations. A few residents were taken to the hospital for evaluation. Mutual Aid from Yorkville, NY Mills, Stittville and Maynard assisted in the operations. The quick, coordinated efforts of the many responders were led by Assistant Fire Chief Duane Evans. -Fire News photos by Jack Zwijacz
FireNews.com
Fire News, May 2014, Page 11
Fatal Fire in Beekman
Winona Lake Battles Forklift Fire
On March 24, 2014, the Beekman Fire Department and the Dutchess County Sheriffs Department were dispatched for a reported structure fire at 132 Gold Road in the Town of Beekman. Several minutes later, first arriving units found the 3500 square foot residence well involved in fire. Mutual-aid was requested from the Union Vale and Pawling Fire Departments with additional tankers to supply water to the scene as well as the East Fishkill FD who responded with their F.A.S.T. team. The fire, which was reported by a neighbor, had a significant head start and almost totally consumed the residence. Once the fire was out, firefighters located the body of a male in an upstairs bedroom of the structure. It was determined that the occupant had apparently committed suicide and his death was not as result of the fire. The fire investigation which is on-going, was conducted by the Dutchess County Department of Emergency Response - Fire Investigation Division and the Dutchess County Sheriffs Department. -Fire News photo by Bill Johnson
Responders from Winona Lake were called out to C&S Warehouse for a piece of machinery that was on fire. Upon arrival a propane fueled forklift was found to be fully involved. Mutual aid from the Orange Lake Fire Department and the City of Newburgh for a FAST unit was requested. The chief of Winona Lake transmitted a second alarm for the call. Responders from Good Will, Middle Hope, Cronomer Valley, and Vails Gate responded to the call. -Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick
Page 12, Fire News, May 2014
FireNews.com
Flames Rip Through Albany Apartment On March 25, 2014, flames ripped through the upper apartment of an Albany two family home located at 296 Sheridan Avenue at around 0030. When Albany firefighters arrived on the scene, the rear porch had heavy fire extending up to the roof. Battalion Chief William Moore requested a second alarm. The lower level was vacant at the time of the fire and suffered heavy smoke and water damage. A neighboring house suffered some fire and water damage. According to Albany Fire Chief Warren Abriel, it appears a tenant on the second floor was cooking with a gas grill on the upper back porch when the fire began. -Fire News photo by Tom Heffernan
Snow Hampers Blaze in Albany Firefighters from Albany went to work at an early morning fire that was complicated by streets narrowed with snow. The two alarm fire was brought safely under control. -Fire News photo by Martin Miller
FireNews.com
Fire News, May 2014, Page 13
Verbal Alarm Transmitted in the Bronx
On March 23, 2014, at 1040, FDNY TL-33 transmitted a verbal alarm for a fire in a one-story taxpayer located on the corner of East Burnside Avenue and Walton Avenue. Heavy smoke was pushing from the corner store which housed a clothing and shoe store. An all-hands assignment was immediately sounded, followed by the second alarm. After a brief interior attack all companies were withdrawn due to fire conditions and computer information indicating structural issues. Tower ladders were set up as fire extended into exposure 2, a 99 cent store and
exposure 2A, a meat market. A third alarm was requested. Four tower ladders, several ground monitors and 2-1/2" hand lines went to work on the three stores, as additional companies worked on stopping the fire from extending into the other stores on the block from both the interior and on the roof. The fire was declared under control at 1430, with companies continuing to hit hot spots from tower ladders due to instability of the structure. Three firefighters suffered minor injuries battling the blaze. -Fire News photos by Peter Danzo
Page 14, Fire News, May 2014
FireNews.com
Flames Consume Car in Carman
Volunteer firefighters from Carman responded to a car fire in the ing motorists watched the car as it was quickly consumed by the eastbound lane of Interstate 890, just past the High Bridge Road flames. No injuries were reported for the incident. -Fire News photo by Peter Barber exit ramp. Multiple calls came pouring into the 911 center as pass-
FireNews.com
Fire News, May 2014, Page 15
High CO Levels in New Scotland Originally, on March 30, 2014, the Onesquethaw Fire Department was requested to pump out a flooded cellar on Indian Fields Road in the Town of New Scotland. Upon arrival firefighters were told by the parents that they had sick children in the house. It was quickly determined that there was a high level of carbon monoxide in the home. Albany County Paramedics treated seven patients including five children, ranging in age from three months to 7-8 years old. Three children and the mother were transported to the hospital by the Onesquethaw Fire Department EMS and the Town of Bethlehem EMS. -Fire News photo by Tom Heffernan
Two Transported in Newburgh Recently, responders from the Good Will Fire Department were called out to a two car motor vehicle accident that occurred on Route 17 and D'Alafasono Road. Two people were hurt in the accident and taken to an area hospital by ambulance. -Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick
Page 16, Fire News, May 2014
FireNews.com
FireNews.com
Fire News, May 2014, Page 17
Winona Lake Holds Installation and Awards Dinner
The Winona Lake Fire Department held their Annual Installation Dinner at the Spruce Lodge. A good time was had by all as President John Lassiter gave Lou Dina a certificate fore 41Years of Service from Senator Larkin. Roe Knapp was chosen as the Man of the Year. Congratulations to the 2014 department officers. Congratulations to Jackie Fox, and Tammy Nosek for being chosen as Women of the Year - Fire News photos by Vinnie Dominick
Page 18, Fire News, May 2014
FireNews.com
COASTAL FIRE SYSTEMS NEW GLASS CUTTING KIT Coastal Fire Systems has been appointed the NY/NJ/CT distributor for the “Firehouse Systems FS2214 Glass Cutting Kit.” This kit comes with everything you need to cut windshields and laminated hurricane glass found in new home construction. The FS2214 attaches to your battery operated drill giving it a flexibility not found in other tools. This tool “floats” on your drill because it is only attached by the chuck. This design means you don’t have to repurchase the starting hole and reposition the tool at every turn.
Cutting glass has never been easier. Punch a small hole in the corner of the glass with the included Pick Hammer, insert the blade and begin cutting. The tool will keep up with you and won’t bog down with glass chips as other lighter constructed tools do. The unique blade/shoe design limits the glass dust that falls into the car, as well. To schedule a free on-site demo call Coastal Fire Systems at 631-661-7515.
FF1 PROFESSIONAL SAFETY SERVICES EXPANDS PARTNERSHIP WITH FIRE-DEX FF1 Professional Safety Services announced on April 4, 2014, the expansion of their dealer partnership with Fire-Dex to now cover the entire state of New Jersey. “The relationship between FF1 and Fire-Dex has come a long way in just a few short years,” said Jonathon Van Norman, Owner and President at FF1 Professional Safety Services. “We have grown exponentially in Northern New Jersey and now Fire-Dex has given us the opportunity to bring the very best in PPE to the southern part of the state!” “Fire-Dex is thrilled to be expanding our partnership with FF1 to now cover the entire state of New Jersey,” said Brett Jaffe, President and CEO at Fire-Dex. “FF1’s commitment of service to their customers aligns perfectly with the fundamental values and culture at Fire-Dex. Based on their track record in the northern part of the state, we are excited about the future of Fire-Dex and FF1 in southern New Jersey.” Fire-Dex already has a loyal customer base in portions of southern New Jersey from a previous distributor and we want to make this transition seamless. The primary focus will be meeting with the existing customers and introducing them to the high standards that FF1 brings each and every day. Founded in 2005, FF1 Professional Safety Services is a premier provider for Fire, EMS and Police supplies across New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. The company offers a wide range of products and services including MSA, Fire-Dex, Mustang Survival, Zodiac
Milpro, 5.11 Tactical, All American Hose, and much more. FF1 also offers a fully staffed Service Division certified to handle gas meter calibrations, flow testing, small engine repairs, hydrostatic testing and the list goes on! We also have a Training Division filled with dozens of experienced firefighters and certified instructors. Founded by an experienced firefighter and chief, we serve the First Responder community with unprecedented levels of experience and efficiency. At FF1 Professional Safety Services you’ll also discover knowledgeable service from a sales team of former firefighters, police and EMS professionals. We have stood in your boots, we know what you need. For over 30 years, Fire-Dex has been a leading manufacturer of protective firefighting clothing, emergency response apparel, premium quality NFPA hoods, gloves, helmets and boots. For more information: Inside Sales, 973-940-3061; Sales@FF1.com. Fo r m o re i n fo rm a t i o n o n Fi re -De x o r FF1 g o t o www.FireDex.com or www.FF1.com/.
FireNews.com
Obituary
Fire News, May 2014, Page 19
Lt. Stephen M. Gregory Answers Last Alarm
The Clinton Heights Fire Department paid their farewell to 97-year-old member and retired FDNY Lieutenant Stephen M. Gregory. He was the founder-president and "president emeritus" of the Pulaski Association FDNY. He is past president of the Grand Councils of Pulaski Associations, City of New York, a member of the FDNY Holy Name Society, the Anchor Club, the Uniformed Fire Officers Association, the Uniformed Fire Association and Retired Officers Association. -Fire News photos by Marty Miller
Page 20, Fire News, May 2014
FireNews.com
Fall Results in Rensselaer Rescue
On March 25, 2014, responders from Rensselaer City, with mutual a ravine. She appeared to have broken her leg, so she was brought aid from the Defreestville Fire Department rescued a woman who up to safety in a stokes basket and transported to the hospital by -Fire News photo by Marty Miller tried to retrieve her trash bin, which had blown part way down into Mohawk ambulance.
New York State Association of Fire Chiefs Appoints New Executive Director & CEO The New York State Association of Fire Chiefs (NYSAFC), the statewide association representing career and volunteer fire chiefs throughout New York has appointed Gerald R. "Jerry" DeLuca as its new executive director and CEO. DeLuca has an extensive history of public and emergency service as well as being a highly qualified association manager. He has previously worked as executive director of the Automotive Recyclers Association of New York and as the director of government affairs for the New York State Motor Truck Association. DeLuca has a long history with the fire service. He currently is a deputy county fire coordinator in Albany County and was previously 1st assistant chief of the Ravena Fire Department. DeLuca also served as a part-time police investigator and public information officer for the Town of Coeymans Police Department. In commenting on the selection of Jerry DeLuca as the NYSAFC executive director and CEO, association 1st Vice President Donald Corkery said, "We are extremely pleased to have Jerry DeLuca joining our team. His experience in managing associations and his knowledge of the fire service as well as state government make him the right person for this job. We have many issues to address including working with our colleagues in the fire service to ensure that the lives of New Yorkers are protected by adopting the new building code." DeLuca said, "I am extremely honored and pleased to be given this opportunity. Taking on the leadership of the State Association of Fire Chiefs is a tremendous opportunity for me. It allows me to combine my ability to manage an association with my passion for fire and emergency services. I look forward to continuing to grow the association and to making certain that we continue to provide high quality service and training to fire chiefs throughout the state." DeLuca is replacing Thomas LaBelle who has taken a position as division fire chief in Albemarle County, Va. DeLuca stated, "Tom LaBelle has been a tremendous asset to the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs and to the fire service in New York state. I am sure his skills and knowledge will be extremely beneficial to the people of Virginia."
FireNews.com
Fire News, May 2014, Page 21
Team Effort Saves Horse
The Town of Nassau, Rensselaer County, Averill Park, Nassau and Hoags Corners firefighters and cold water rescue team responded to Sunrise Hill Farm, where they found a 30 year old horse that had fallen through the ice and was in about four foot of water. It took a real team effort, chopping a path through the ice that was trapping the horse and then getting him near land, where he collapsed. Covered with blankets and hot packs an excavator was able to get the horse over the bank to safety. Things turned out good for JR the son of Secretariat -Fire News photos by Martin Miller
“Shining a New Light on Service”
• Battery Operated Exhaust / PPV fan. • Starts instantly on battery Power. Just set it in place and turn it on • High velocity Jet Stream works 6-20’ from door • Operates on Battery Power for 20-80 minutes. • 115V with built in trickle charger • Two fans take up less room than one competitive PPV fan. • Call for a Free on-site or live burn demonstration
Battery or 115V
Phone: 631-661-7515 www.CoastalFireSystems.com
Page 22, Fire News, May 2014
FireNews.com
Basement Fire Contained in Queens
Four Alarm Blaze Beat in Greenpoint
Fire broke out at 220-31 Hempstead Avenue in Queens. The fire was in a two story taxpayer with apartments above. An additional engine and ladder were special called above the all hands assignment. The fire started in the basement of the store near the gas meter. The fire was quickly brought under control without incident. -Fire News photo by Chris Creighton
On March 18, 2014, firefighters from Brooklyn and Queens were called to 860 Humboldt Street in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, for a commercial building fire just after 1900. Engine 238 and Ladder 106 were first due as their quarters are about a block away on Greenpoint Avenue. Units arrived to find Rapid Recycling, a one story 200x400 interconnected building well involved. The fire went to four alarms and caused several sections of the building to collapse and burned into the next day. During the operation six tower ladders, two multi-versals, two deck guns and several hand lines were used to knock down the fire. There were no reported injuries. -Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
FireNews.com
Fire News, May 2014, Page 23
Page 24, Fire News, May 2014
FireNews.com
Learning About Government in Syracuse
Jacobowitz Speaks
Senator John Defrancisco spoke to a group of firefighters about the legislative process and how their thoughts and concerns are brought to our elected officials and then end up going through the Assembly and the Senate before going to the Governor’s desk. The Senator however, knowing he was speaking to a group of mostly men from Syracuse on the day Duke University was playing Syracuse University, energetically showed his spirit for the S.U. Orangemen -Fire News photo by Gordy Kotars
Past Chief David Jacobowitz, an immediate past president from FASNY, was a speaker representing the National Volunteer Fire Council as their New York State Director. He spoke on the many benefits that the NVFC can bring to its members. -Fire News photo by Gordy Kotars
FireNews.com
Fire News, May 2014, Page 25
Problems Overcome in Slingerlands
On March 9, 2014, firefighters from Slingerlands tried to save a house at the end of a one mile dirt road. The operation created many problems for firefighters. The nearest water was tank water that came from a mile back. Portable tanks were set on one ridge, while firefighters hand stretched across a ravine to battle the fire. A firefighter was treated for exhaustion while battling the blaze. The
owner was also burned trying to save the gifts from an earlier baby shower. Fortunately he was able to see his wife and new child in the hospital about a week later. Thanks to everyone that helped with the incident and donated to the family in a big way. -Fire News photos by Marty Miller
Page 26, Fire News, May 2014
FireNews.com
Obituary
Ex-Chief Amos J. Bastiani Mourned in Delmar
Former Fire Chief Amos J. Bastiani passed away on February 19, 2014, after a long battle with cancer. Amos was a dedicated 38 year member of the Delmar Fire Department, where he rose to the rank of chief. Amos also held many other titles in the department, including past president, past rescue squad captain, and at the time of his passing, Amos was a Delmar Fire District commissioner. Amos was among the first paramedics in Albany County, as well as the first in the Town of Bethlehem, where he brought the Advanced Life Support Services. On February 24, 2014, he took his last ride on "The Old Mack" which was his favorite pride and joy. Amos was instrumental in restoring "The Old Mack." -Fire News photos by Tom Heffernan
Page 28, Fire News, May 2014
FireNews.com
MacBoston Wins!
MacBoston 18 Truck Hockey Team took to the ice on Saturday, March 22, 2014 for a benefit game against the FDNY Hockey Team. Cowbells and air horns filled the Glens Falls Civic Center as the audience rooted for their favorite team. In the end, MacBoston beat FDNY 9 to 5. It was an exciting game and a wonderful opportunity for people to come and view the MacBoston 18 Tiller Truck parked outside and appreciate what the not for profit organization does.
MacBoston 18 Truck's mission is to keep alive the memory of NYS firefighters who died in the Line of Duty by promoting firefighter safety through education and to raise public awareness about fire safety and prevention and assist in the recruitment of firefighters. You can find out more about this organization, join the organization or request the truck to come to your event by going to www.macboston.com -Fire News photo by Lori A. Washburn
FireNews.com
Ice Rescue Drill Held at Rockland Lake Firefighters from several departments participated in a recent ice rescue drill at Rockland Lake. The training, sponsored by the Congers Fire Department, allowed several neighboring departments to train in both surface and in water ice rescue scenarios. During the bitter cold day, evolutions using ice sleds, rope guns, and other equipment were held. Along with Congers, members from the Rockland Lake FD, Valley Cottage FD, Stony Point FD and Thiells FD attended the evolution, totaling around 50 people. Two employees of the NY State Park Service also participated in the activity. -Fire News photos by Kenny Flynn
Fire News, May 2014, Page 29
Page 30, Fire News, May 2014
FireNews.com
Installation Held in Schuyler Heights
Congratulations go out to the incoming line officers for Schuyler Heights Fire Company. The officers were sworn in at their 59th annual Installation Banquet which was held on February 22, 2014. In the photo, from left to right, back row, is First Lieutenant, Connor Scully; Third Lieutenant, Frank Ellsworth; Second Lieutenant, Lou Hillebrandt; Safety Officer, Robert Welsh; Fire
Police Captain, Todd Peters; Fire Police Lieutenant, Jay Gerace. LR Front Row, First Captain, Steve Blais; First Assistant Chief, Jonathan Dudley; Chief Engineer, Aaron Fandl; Second Assistant Chief, Kenneth Keefer, Sr.; Second Captain, Dan Yates. -Fire News photo by Lori Washburn
Brockport Fire Police Celebrate 60 Years Of Service The men and women of the Brockport Fire Police Squad have been serving the greater Brockport community since they were organized in 1954 by the Village Board. Comprised of firefighters from the five companies at the time, the firefighters of today continue to receive specialized training to prepare them for the rigors of squad duty which primarily surrounds traffic control and scene safety. In addition, these members are charged with security of the scene and preservation of evidence while the fire investigation team determines the cause and origin of a fire. Under New York State Law, squad members are sworn Peace Officers with police powers while performing their assigned duties. You will notice squad members at major accident scenes, house fires, hazardous material spills and plane crashes. They will use barricade tape and flares, flashing lights and simple hand signals to safely guide and direct you around these incidents. The squad recommends that you always have, or know an alternate route to work or school, so that if an incident forces the closing of a road, or a reduction in traffic lanes, you will arrive safely at your destination. If you have a special need, or you believe that you live closer to the traffic point than the scene is, slowly approach the scene and explain to the squad member(s) what your situation is. They will make every effort to aid you in getting where you are going. The command officers of the Squad are elected each year. This year, they are Captain Paul Drake, Lieutenants Jim Ford, George Klump and Scott Winslow. Each of these officers have many years of experience and training. They look forward to providing the same level of service that this community has come to expect since 1954. -Fire News story by Christopher R. Martin
FireNews.com
Fire News, May 2014, Page 31