Fire news nys 12 13

VOLUME 7, NO. 2

W W W .FIRENE WS .COM

Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes In NY State DECEMBER 2013

On November 4, 2013, Walden firefighters responded to a structure fire on North Drive at Camp Robbins. Please turn to page 6 for the full story.

-Fire News photo by Steve Lenz

Fire News Wishes Everyone a

Happy Holiday – New York State Edition –

FireNews.com

Fire News, December 2013, Page 3

In this issue...

Rotterdam Battles Fatal Blaze

Firefighters from several Rotterdam fire departments responded to frantic calls of a house with the possibility of its resident trapped.

See story on page 7

Fire Breaks Out in Buffalo

A fire broke out in a large 2-1/2 story vacant dwelling on Broadway Street.

See story on page 9

Brothers Help a Brother in Schenectady

Firefighters were called out to help one of their own as flames destroyed a firefighter's garage, three vehicles and a motorcycle.

See story on page 11

Clifton Park Holds Fire Prevention Open House Firefighters show "junior" firefighters proper techniques in putting out a fire.

See story on page 15

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

Winona Holds MCI Drill

A mass casualty incident was held by the Winona Fire Department.

See story on page 23

Fallen Firefighters Remembered in Albany

On a beautiful day in October, NYS added nine more names to the NYS Fallen Firefighters Memorial.

COPYRIGHT 2013, THE FIRE NEWS LLC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

For advertising rates and information, call (631) 776-0500 Press 1 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 25

PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 4 Announcements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 5 Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 12 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 14 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 24 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 25

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, December 2013

FireNews.com

From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor

Some Thoughts…

As the leaves continue to fall and snow has already left its mark in many areas, we are reminded that we are entering the winter season.

As the end of 2013 draws near, I would like to reflect on the year that has passed.

Fire News had a fantastic year celebrating 40 years of commitment to the fire service. To our readers, we say thank you for the support you have given us over the years. Your dedication and commitment to our newspaper is appreciated. Our Facebook page has received well over 25,000 “likes” and continues to grow. That number speaks volumes.

Fire News, like the fire service, has continued to grow in ways that make you safer. In our Long Island edition we started a “Safety Corner” and an “Emergency Vehicle Technicians Corner.” We will now bring this information to readers of all our editions through our website.

As first responders, you are part of a well-oiled machine that is much more than fighting fires, helping the individuals who have been injured in accidents, responding to rescue and emergency medical calls. You are part of a fire service which includes the task of remembering our fallen brothers and sisters and assisting members in need.

As you read through Fire News and view photos of fundraisers for

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organizations that are there for you when you need them, take a moment to ask yourself if you can find the time in 2014 to commit to helping just one organization in a special way.

As the editor of Fire News, I am proud to be representing a publication that continues its 40-year commitment to represent all first responders in a positive way. Look carefully at our photographs. Look at the faces of the people who are the fire service. Although the flames that you battle, the child that you care for and the unfortunate you comfort is commendable, it is your face in the photograph that shows your determination, smiles of joy, enthusiasm and love for a job that the average person walks away from. As I look back through past editions of Fire News, the people have changed, but the facial expressions remain the same. Yes, you deserve to be proud of what you do.

As I sit down at Thanksgiving dinner this year, I will remember my family members who are no longer with me or in need of prayer to help guide them through troubled times. I will continue to pray for the safe return of all of our military personnel. I will close my prayer by saying thank you to you, the first responder. Happy Thanksgiving, Happy Chanukah and Merry Christmas to all of our readers. Thank you for your dedication and service!

Dennis

FireNews.com

Fire News, December 2013, Page 5

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Governor Cuomo Congratulates Graduates Governor Andrew M. Cuomo recently congratulated 19 graduates of the Recruit Firefighter Training (RFFT) Program at the State Office of Fire Prevention and Control's Academy of Fire Science in Montour Falls. The students come from 13 fire departments and represent the Academy's 66th RFFT class.

"As we recognize Fire Prevention Week, I am pleased to announce that these nineteen individuals have graduated from the State's rigorous firefighter training program, preparing them for the critically important service they will provide," Governor Cuomo said. "Since 1984, over 1,700 recruits have successfully completed this training. I applaud the brave men and women who have taken up the call to serve by ensuring the safety and security of their fellow New Yorkers in communities across the State."

The RFFT class is 11 weeks long and includes more than 450 hours of intense training that exceeds the provisions of the New York State standard for career probationary and non-permanent firefighters.

Graduates of the program also receive national certification in Firefighter I, Firefighter II and Hazardous Materials Operations.

Jerome M. Hauer, Commissioner, New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services said, "Training is such an essential and important facet of ensuring our State's firefighters are properly prepared for any challenge they face once they actively engage in their chosen profession. These recruits, like the hundreds before them, will return to their communities with a far better understanding of how to respond to any emergency and provide the service that their fellow citizens need."

Bryant D. Stevens, New York State Fire Administrator said, "The RFFT program is long and arduous but professionally rewarding for students who successfully complete it. I congratulate these firefighters for their hard work and dedication and wish them the best in their careers."

On October 8th, Governor Cuomo commemorated the 16th Annual Fallen Firefighters Memorial Ceremony by issuing two proclamations honoring the State's career and volunteer firefighters. The Governor's

proclamations marked October 8 as the annual Firefighter Appreciation Day, and October 6-12 as New York's annual Fire Prevention Week. The 66th Recruit Firefighter Training Program class is comprised of the following firefighters: LAKE MOHEGAN F.D. (Westchester Co.) Stephen J. Myllek

ARLINGTON F.D. (Dutchess Co.) Joseph M. Cruz Christopher D. Rinck

NIAGARA FALLS F.D. (Niagara Co.) Stephen V. Barone David P. Soper Robert T. Swartz

BRIGHTON F.D. (Monroe Co.) Casey J. Lynk CORTLAND F.D. (Cortland Co.) Travis J. Marshall

NORTH GREECE F.D. (Monroe Co.) Scott W. McCafferty Anthony M. Militello

GATES F.D. (Monroe Co.) Jared Kase

NORTH TONAWANDA F.D. (Niagara Co.) Nicholas M. Johnson James M. Urban, Jr.

HERKIMER F.D. (Herkimer Co.) Kenneth M. Scanlon HOPEWELL F.D. (Ontario Co.) Scott D. Brotherton

ONEIDA F.D. (Madison Co.) Donald J. Premo

JOHNSON CITY F.D. (Broome Co.) Jared R. Mink Kevin Shoemaker

RIDGE-CULVER F.D. (Monroe Co.) Lucas W. Burkovich

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Page 6, Fire News, December 2013

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Fully Involved in Walden

On November 4, 2013, Walden (Orange County) firefighters responded to a reported structure fire on North Drive at Camp Robbins. Upon arrival, Walden Car 1 reported a fully involved single-story, wood frame structure and requested a second alarm, along with a tanker task force. Mutual aid responded from Wallkill,

Plattekill, Coldenham, Montgomery, Air Guard and Maybrook.

Additional companies responded for standby. Multiple lines were put into operation, however the structure was destroyed. The cause was investigated by Orange County Fire Investigators. No injuries were reported for the incident.

-Fire News photo by Steve Lenz

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Fire News, December 2013, Page 7

Rotterdam Battles Fatal Blaze

Firefighters from several Rotterdam fire departments responded to frantic calls of a house with the possibility of its resident trapped. With flames showing from the front door and windows, a second alarm was immediately sounded, bringing more equipment and manpower to the scene.

After flames were knocked down with hand lines and a master stream from South Schenectady’s tower ladder truck, firefighters pulled the lifeless body of the resident to the front lawn and began CPR. He was taken to an area hospital where he died of smoke inhalation.

-Fire News photos by Peter Barber

Page 8, Fire News, December 2013

FireNews.com

Flames Break Out in Queens Village

One person died and another was injured on October 20, 2013, in a fast moving fire that destroyed a Queens Village home. The blaze, which occurred on Springfield Boulevard, broke out just after 1400 and brought about 40 FDNY firefighters to the scene. One victim removed from the home was seen receiving CPR by EMS paramedics.

-Fire News photos by Lou Minutoli

FireNews.com

Fire News, December 2013, Page 9

Fire Breaks Out in Buffalo A fire broke out in Buffalo on Broadway Street. The 3rd Battalion Chief reported smoke showing as he left Engine 3’s firehouse. The fire was in a large 2-1/2 story vacant dwelling.

-Fire News photo Lloyd Mitchell

Tanker Shuttle Utilized at Plattekill Fire A three-alarm blaze broke out in a dwelling on Route 32 in the Plattekill fire district on October 22, 2013, at approximately 0715. Mutual aid from numerous fire companies responded to the incident. A tanker shuttle was utilized to extinguish the blaze.

-Fire News photo by Steve Lenz

Page 10, Fire News, December 2013

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Power Lines Complicate Buffalo Blaze

Buffalo responders went to work on Keystone Street to battle flames in a 1-1/2 story structure. A second alarm was transmitted by Battalion Chief McFeely to battle the flames that were extending to the exposures. Firefighters made an aggressive interior attack on the exposure 2 and 4 fires. Downed power lines complicated the battle that eventually was brought under control -Fire News photo by Lloyd Mitchell

FireNews.com

Fire News, December 2013, Page 11

Brothers Help a Brother in Schenectady

Collyer’s Condition Makes for a Difficult Battle

Schenectady firefighters were called out to help one of their own as flames destroyed a firefighter’s garage, three vehicles and a motorcycle. First due Engine 4, reported seeing flames blocks from the fire. The flames leapt over 20 feet in the air threatening other structures nearby. As master streams and handlines were utilized, the flames were knocked down in minutes sparing nearby structures.

No injuries were reported for this incident.

-Fire News photo by Peter Barber

On November 3, 2013, the Latham Fire Department, with the aid of Verdoy, Maplewood, and Shaker-Road Loudonville departments responded to a structure fire on Shamrock Court in Latham.

Upon arrival heavy black smoke could be seen escaping from the garage and lower levels. The fire, which originated in the basement of the two-family home, quickly spread smoke through all the levels of the building. An elderly couple was aided out of the building, both with smoke inhalation and one with minor burns to his arms; he was later transported to Albany Medical Center. Attacking the fire was extremely difficult due to the dense smoke and a hoarding situation in the occupancy. A few firefighters were treated at the scene for minor heat exhaustion.

-Fire News photo by Lori A. Washburn

Page 12, Fire News, December 2013

FireNews.com

Two Alarms Needed for Schenectady Bakery

Nine Transported from Queens Blaze

Schenectady firefighters responded to the report of a shed fire next to Napoli’s Bakery on Broadway. When they arrived, they discovered that the fire was the in the bakery and a second alarm was sounded. The fire was brought under control quickly. No injuries were reported.

-Fire News photo by Peter Barber

Queens firefighters battled a fire in a two-story private dwelling on 140th Avenue on the morning of October 20, 2013, in the Rochdale section of Queens. At least nine occupants of the home were transported to area hospitals for minor injuries and smoke inhalation.

-Fire News photo by Lou Minutoli

FireNews.com

Fire News, December 2013, Page 13

MVA’s All Over NYS Route 84 Closed for Cleanup

Winona Lake responders were called out to a motor vehicle accident with a rollover on eastbound Route 84 near exit 6. The Coldenham Fire Department was requested to the scene for assistance with the call. Route 84 was shutdown for four hours for cleanup. Fortunately, no one was hurt in the incident.

-Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick

Selkirk Responders Handle Truck MVA

Fire Truck Overturns in Plattekill

On November 2, 2013, five Plattekill firefighters were sent to area hospitals after they suffered injuries when the fire engine they were riding in flipped over. The accident occurred on Prospect Hill Road while the firefighters were responding to a motor vehicle accident. As the fire truck was traveling east on Prospect Hill Road, a car traveling westbound crossed the double yellow lines into the path of the fire truck. The fire truck swerved to avoid a collision and went out of control, striking a guard rail, flipping on its side and rolling onto its roof before it came to a stop. The extent of the injuries for each firefighter were not immediately known. The Dan Leghorn Fire Company and the Winona Lake Fire Company, both from the Orange Lake Fire District, the Cronomer Valley Fire Department which took over command of the scene and other units from the Plattekill Fire Department responded to assist. Both Orange and Ulster County Fire Coordinators responded to the scene. Emergency Medical Personnel responded from the Town of Newburgh Volunteer Ambulance Corps, the New Windsor Volunteer Ambulance and Mobile Life Ambulance. Police units from the Orange County Sheriffs Office and the NYS police assisted at the scene.

-Fire News photo by John C. Miller

Winona Lake Transports Three

On October 29, 2013, a serious crash occurred on route 9W. The accident sent three Town of Bethlehem Highway Department workers to the hospital. Lt. Thomas Heffernan said the cause of the accident was under investigation. The impact of the collision sent the large truck with a leaf blower on the back across four lanes, through the guard rail, and down an embankment. The accident is still under investigation and charges were pending. Route 9W was either closed or had only one lane open for roughly twoand-a-half-hours. The Selkirk Fire Department, Albany County Paramedics, and two Town of Bethlehem Ambulances were on the scene.

-Fire News photo by Tom Heffernan

Winona Lake responders were called out to a two car motor vehicle accident on Route 52 and Route 300. Three people where taken to the hospital by ambulance.

-Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick

Page 14, Fire News, December 2013

FireNews.com

Super Vac/Command Light’s Margerum Escorts Arizona LODD Gary Margerum, NE Regional Manager for Super Vac/Command Light, is pictured with Damon Polk, as they participated in remembering Wildland Firefighter Anthony Polk of Arizona, who died in the Line of Duty. Damon's family is Native American Indian. As Gary escorted him and his family to receive the American flag that flew over the White House, Damon Polk began a Native song, which he sang down the walkway as they received the flag. Many who could hear him were touched with emotion. Afterwards he received many condolences for the loss of Anthony.

Terry Farrell Fund Receives Large Grant The Terry Farrell Fund is proud to announce a $767,000 grant to assist volunteer firefighters in Nassau and Suffolk Counties dealing with the long-term effects of Hurricane Sandy.

The grant application was prepared by Williston Park based JSK Inc., "the Fire Grant -Guys". The total award will be administered by the NYS Office of Mental Health and over the next two years hopes to conduct responder mental health training sessions, and a initiate a peer counselor program located in participating agencies. These services will be open to all firefighters for individual, group and family counseling and will be completely confidential.

Many volunteer firefighters suffered the loss of homes, vehicles, belongings, and boats. Many are suffering through the loss of prized fire equipment including apparatus and facilities. The inability to combat working fires, to respond to fire calls, or respond to calls for help from adjacent fire departments has taken its toll physiologically on some. In order to be a more resilient community, we need to ensure our first responders are dealing with the wounds they are still feeling.

This is the third successful award for the terry Farrell Fund prepared by JSK Inc. The Fund is named after FDNY Firefighter, and Chief of the Dix Hills FD Terry Farrell who lost his life on 9-11-01 with the FDNY.

FDSOA 26TH ANNUAL APPARATUS SPECIFICATION AND MAINTENANCE SYMPOSIUM The Fire Department Safety Officer Association is celebrating its 26th Annual Apparatus Specification and Maintenance Symposium, January 19th - 22nd, 2014.

Orlando, Florida.

FDSOA’s annual apparatus symposium is the only conference dedicated to providing a better understanding of fire apparatus and ambulances to the emergency services industry. Presentations from leading industry figures, as well as apparatus and equipment man-

ufacturers, provide the attendee with a wide range of factual data. Breakout sessions and networking events provide a forum for sharing personal experiences with your peers.

Last year’s event had 300-plus attendees.

We expect even more this year! Please register now. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Vendor space and sponsorship opportunities are available.

Event details and course descriptions are available at www.fdsoa.org.

The Symposium will be held at the Wyndham Hotel Buena Vista, in Orlando, Florida. The Hotel Buena Vista, across from the Disney Village Marketplace, offers attendees reduced room rates, free Wi-Fi and free parking.

For more information contact the FDSOA Office (33365 Raphael Rd., Farmington Hills, MI 48336) at: 248-880-1864; Fax: 248-479-0491; e-mail: membership@ fdsoa.org.

FireNews.com

Fire News, December 2013, Page 15

Fire Prevention Clifton Park Holds Open House

Meadow Hill Students Learn Fire Prevention

Firefighter Kim Chamberlain shows a “junior� firefighter proper technique in putting out a fire. -Fire News photo by Lori Washburn

Fire Prevention Day was held at the Meadow Hill School. Winona Lake and Orange Lake responders educated the students on fire safety. The firefighters distributed hats and wrist bands, while they explained what to do if there was a fire in the home. The students also enjoyed viewing the fire equipment.

-Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick

Fire Prevention in Latham

Fire Prevention in Amsterdam

Erin O'Callaghan of the Latham Fire Department teaches Ellen Albright how to properly use a fire extinguisher at Fire Prevention Awareness held at Home Depot.

-Fire News photo by Lori Washburn

Students from the Marie Curie Institute of Engineering and Communications recently got a tour of the Amsterdam Fire Department. Firefighter Rob Shang showed the children the ladder truck. They also learned about fire safety.

-Fire News photo by Mark Perfetti

Page 16, Fire News, December 2013

FireNews.com

The Story Behind the Rombout Ax

It was about 25 years ago when Rombout Fire Company purchased its first brand new apparatus and sold the used 1957 American LaFrance Engine 2 to an upstate fire department to make room for the new rig. Rombout firefighter and driver Tag Muller helped the delivery company get the engine on the flatbed and prepped for the trip. When he was done he entered the firehouse ready room where a few of his fellow firefighters were hanging out waiting for the next call. Tag handed fellow member Chuck E. Theiss a fire ax and Chuck E. asked “What is this?” Tag explained to Theiss and the group that when the truck with Engine 2 on it pulled out of the parking lot the fire ax fell off the engine. A few guys chuckled about it, Tag then told Chuck E. to take it home and to keep the ax because it was some of the first equipment purchased by Rombout. Chuck asked “What are we going to do with the ax?” Tag answered that they would find a purpose for the fire ax and to, “Hang on to it.” Chuck E., not to question his best friend, went home and hung the ax in his basement. Every few years Chuck would ask Tag what he wanted to do with the fire ax and the answer was always be the same, we will find a purpose for it and to “Hang on to it.” So the fire ax stayed in Chuck’s basement. Many years later Tag was elected to the Board of Commissioners and at that time Chuck suggested to use the fire ax on a plaque to commemorate the event but Tag told him we will find a better purpose for it and to “Hang on to it.” And the fire ax continued its stay in Chuck’s basement.

In January of 2013 Rombout members was shocked to learn of Tag Muller’s death. One day Tag was at the firehouse, the next day the department was at his funeral. He was still serving as commissioner and had just retired from his job. Like most fire departments, there are some members that departments will be forever grateful to and their loss is felt by many. Tag was one of those guys. Soon after the funeral Chuck Theiss was in the ready room and he knew he’d finally found a purpose for that old fire ax. With the help of his father, Chuck G Theiss, and Brian Allison, they designed and built a plaque commemorating the life and the dedication of Tag Muller. The plaque, which will hang in the Rombout ready room, was unveiled to Tag’s widow, Venda, and one of her sons, Terry, who is serving the remainder of his father 2013 term as commissioner. The plaque reads “Terry ‘Tag’ Muller, Firefighter, Driver, Commissioner, and Friend.” For more information with pictures and videos about Tag Muller visit Rombout Facebook page at Rombout Fire Company Inc. For more information, photos or videos about Rombout go to Rombout Fire Company Inc. Facebook page.

-Fire News photo by Kevin Barry

THANK YOU! 25,000 for the likes!

(Let’s make it 30,000!)

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Fire News, December 2013, Page 17

Firefighters in Wallkill Educate Students

The Wallkill Fire Department attended the Ostrander Elementary School to educate the students about fire prevention.

-Fire News photos by Steve Lenz

Page 18, Fire News, December 2013

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Visiting From Amsterdam Eelco and Mathys Padberg (cousins), from Amsterdam, Holland, recently stopped at the Amsterdam Fire Department while they were on a tour of the East Coast. When asked what they thought about the other Amsterdam they said, “It’s very nice.” In the photo from left to right are AFD firefighters Ken Brooks, Lieutenant Rob Krygowski, and Rob Shang along with the cousins.

-Fire News photo by Mark Perfetti

Winona Ladies Take First Place On September 28, 2013, the Winona Lake Fire Department’s Ladies Auxiliary took first place at the Orange County Parade.

-Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick

FireNews.com

Fire News, December 2013, Page 19

Breezy Point Rebuilds after Sandy

Marking the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Sandy, a recent aerial photo of Breezy Point shows the progress that has been made after the area was consumed by fire during Hurricane Sandy.

Breezy Point residents, many of them firefighters, continue to rebuild.

-Fire News photo by Eddie Coppa

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Page 20, Fire News, December 2013

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Firefighters of the Year Honored

On October 13, 2013 The Town of Colonie held its 2013 Firefighters of the Year Banquet. Over 350 people gathered at the Colonie Elks Club in Latham to help honor the recipients from the 12 departments. Recipients of this years honors went to: Frederick Randall from Boght Community Fire Company; Brian Curran from Colonie Village Fire Company; Dominic Ricciardi, Jr., from Fuller Road Fire Company; Michael Audino from Latham Fire Department; Nicholas P. Comproski from Maplewood Fire

Up Close & Personal

Wallkill Firefighter Dave Belarge on the job!

-Fire News photo by Steve Lenz

Department; Michael Steurer from Menands Fire Department; James Burnetter from Midway Fire Department; Todd Peters from Schuyler Heights Fire Department; Timothy Nerney from ShakerRoad Loudonville Fire Department; Thomas Fortune from Stanford Heights Fire Department; William Neiger from Verdoy Fire Department; and Victor Graves from West Albany Fire Department. Congratulations to all.

-Fire News photo by Lori Washburn

NYSAFC Announces Upcoming Company Officers Leadership Training (COLT) Programs The demands on today’s fire officers of all ranks are constantly increasing. Traditional training is not enough for today’s fire service leader. The New York State Association of Fire Chiefs (NYSAFC) recognizes that leadership development is necessary now if we are to protect the future of the fire service. It is also crucial for chief officers to support those individuals performing the day-to-day operations of the fire department, as sharpening the leadership skills of your line officers will enhance the overall strength of your team.

To meet the need for this critical training, NYSAFC offers the Company Officers Leadership Training (COLT) program in locations throughout New York state.

For the COLT program NYSAFC has brought together a slate of instructors, nationally renowned experts in company officer leadership both on and off the fireground, for an energizing learning experience.

NYSAFC is pleased to announce the dates and locations for upcoming COLT programs in Westchester County (December 6-7, 2013, Rye Brook), the Capital District (February 7-8, 2014, Albany), and Monroe County (April 4-5, 2014, Rochester).

The COLT program at each site begins on Friday with a morning lecture “Managing Firegrounds Successfully,” with Chief Lawrence Schultz, District of Columbia Fire & Emergency Medical Services, followed by an afternoon lecture, “So You Want to Be a Company Officer?” with Retired Lieutenant Robert Pressler, FDNY. Each COLT program concludes with a Saturday morning lecture, “Leading from the Front” with Chief Lawrence Schultz.

Registration for COLT is $150 per person (for NYSAFC Individual and Department Members) and $175 per person for non-members.

Both pre-registration and on-site registration will be available at all sites.

For full details on the COLT program and to download a pre-registration form, visit www.nysfirechiefs.com.

FireNews.com

Fire News, December 2013, Page 21

Family Corner Right, Howard Krammer along with his daughter Danielle Stinson, his son, David Krammer, and son-in-law Chris Stinson -Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick

Winona Lake F.D. Attends Harvest Fest On October 12, 2013, a Harvest Fest was held at Adams Fairacre Farms, Newburgh. Along with hay rides and games, the Winona Lake Fire Department was there with one engine and a rescue truck. The kids enjoyed seeing the equipment and receiving hats.

-Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick

Page 22, Fire News, December 2013

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Heroes Honored in Menands

The Village of Menands Town Board honored the five fire departments who responded to a structure fire on October 4, 2013.

Menands Fire Department, Shaker-Road Loudonville Fire Department, Schuyler Heights Fire Company, West Albany Fire Department and Latham Fire Department received proclamations for their heroism in extinguishing the fire quickly and with minimal

damage to the apartment complex. In the process, five residents and a family dog were rescued. A number of firefighters received Certificates of Valor for their extra efforts in rescuing the residents and their pet. It was a touching ceremony for the firefighters and an opportunity for the rescued residents to thank the firefighters personally.

-Fire News photo by Lori Washburn

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Fire News, December 2013, Page 23

Winona Holds MCI Drill

On October 27, 2013, a mass casualty incident drill was held by the Winona Fire Department. The scenario involved two planes that crashed over Stewart Airport. One plane came down in a swampy area off of 747. The second airplane went into the third floor of the Time Warner building on Route 300 in the Town of Newburgh.

Seven companies (Orange Lake, Goodwill, Cronomer Valley,

Middlehope, Plattekill, Air Guard, and Winona Lake) from Battalion 3 responded to this incident. Town of Newburgh EMS and Mobile Life also responded, as over 30 victims were rescued from the second floor by firefighters and were treated by EMS at the triage area. Over 100 responders participated in this drill.

-Fire News photos by Vinnie Dominick

Page 24, Fire News, December 2013

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Arvin Hart Holds EVO Class Members of the Arvin Hart Fire Company spent the day brushing up on driving skills at the Emergency Vehicle Operations class taught by Bob Pardy and sponsored by their insurance carrier, McNeil Agency/ESIP. The hands-on driving course was held in the parking lot of DeCrescente Distributing, who provides facility support for this class. Twenty-four members spent most of Saturday both in the classroom and on a driving course where they had to safely negotiate an obstacle course with seven different stations. The cones were provided by the Stillwater Highway Department. Three train-the-trainers completed the training and provided assistance in evaluating other members of the department. The trainers, Captains Dunn, Lesson and firefighter Urdang will be able to administer future courses in-house.

-Fire News photos by Tom Rinaldi

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Fire News, December 2013, Page 25

Fallen Firefighters Remembered in Albany

On October 8, 2013, NYS added nine names to the New York State Fallen Firefighters Memorial in Albany. It was a beautiful day for hundreds of firefighters from across the state to join in honoring those who answered their last call. In attendance were Albany Mayor Jerry Jennings; Lieutenant Governor Robert Duffy; William Davis, Jr., Deputy State Fire Administrator; Westchester Firefighters Emerald Society Pipes and Drums; as well as many state senators and assembly members. The names added to this wall

this year are: Firefighter Michael J. Chiapperini, West Webster Fire Department; Firefighter Harry L. Davidson, Winona Lake; Firefighter George W. Dove, Skaneateles; Firefighter Tomasz M. Kaczowka, West Webster; Firefighter Ronald J. Keddie, Sheridan; Firefighter Gerard Marcheterre, Borodino; Lieutenant Richard A. Nappi, FDNY; Lieutenant Isaac L. Ransom, East Clinton; and Firefighter James P. Wickham, Cutchogue.

-Fire News photos by Lori Washburn

Page 26, Fire News, December 2013

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Happy Holidays from the staff of Fire News!

As we approach the holiday season, Fire News would like to say thank you to all responders for your dedication and commitment to the fire service. May you have health, happiness and joy during this special time of the year.

Continue to be safe and look out for your brothers and sisters.

As you give thanks, remember those responders who have died in the line of duty this year. Reach out to their families so they know you have not forgotten them.

Finally, pray for the safe return of all of our military personel. To quote the famous Bob Hope: “My idea of Christmas, whether old-fashioned or modern, is very simple: loving others. Come to think of it, why do we have to wait for Christmas to do that?�

-Fire News photo by Dennis Whittam

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Fire News, December 2013, Page 27