VOLUME 6, NO. 8
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes In NY State JUNE 2013
Flames quickly consumed a house on Odell Street, bringing every piece of apparatus in Schenectady to the scene. Please turn to page page 6 for the story. -Fire News photo by Peter Barber
Fire News Welcomes All to Harrisburg North Hall, Booth 704-705 – New York State Edition –
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Fire News, June 2013, Page 3
In this issue... Flames Spread in Mount Vernon
Callers reported flames coming from a house with the house next door that was catching fire.
A Service for New York State Firefighters and EMS Heroes 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713
See story on page 5
Brush Fire Beat in Latham
Firefighters trekked almost a half mile into the wooded area to locate and attacke a brush fire. See story on page 10
Columbia Street Blaze Under Investigation
Schenectady firefighters battled a structure fire in a vacant home on Columbia Street. See story on page 21
Car Crashes into Apartments in Delmar An 18-year-old driver that had been drinking, crashed into an apartment complex.
See story on page 29
Recycling Plant Burns in the Bronx
Flames were knocked down in a recycling plant on Boston Post Road in the far northeast corner of the Bronx. See story on page 35
Bless Our Fire Riders
The Riders of Fire Motorcycle Club held their 10th Annual Blessing of the Bikes on April 28, 2013.
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, R. Thomas Atkins, Peter Barber, Kevin Barry, John Bashaw, Mark Bellew, Bill Bennett, Tom Bierds, George Brophy, Liz Burke, Robert Byrnes, 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 COPYRIGHT 2013, THE FIRE NEWS LLC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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See story on page 37
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 4 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 28 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 36 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 37
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, June 2013
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
Well Done Boston Responders! On April 15, 2013, another horrific event challenged the dedication and skills of first responder when two pressure cooker bombs halted the Boston Marathon. Immediately, responders went into a different mode of operation and ran to help hundreds of people who were victims of the explosions. Three deaths resulted from this heinous act of terrorism and people were injured at the scene of this terrorist bombing. Emergency medical technicians at the finish line were there to help runners with blisters, sprains and aches. In the past, they occasionally would spring into action when a runner had more serious medical problems such as a heart attack. Never did they expect to be in the middle of a terrorist's act and have to spring into action to save the lives of children, moms and dads, spectators and runners alike. Many of the injuries sustained at the bombing were similar to injuries sustained by our soldiers as they continue to protect our freedom. Watching the event unfold live on television, you got a first hand view of how all responders ran to help the victims of the incident. They placed their lives on the line and never questioned their own mortality. I am sure thoughts of a third bomb ran through their minds as the second bomb rocked Boylston Street and Copley Square. The lives that were saved at the Boston Marathon Bombing were a direct result of the interdisciplinary training that goes on regularly in the fire, rescue and emergency services. The Mass Casualty Training that has gone on in the past and continues to go on between all emergency responders throughout the United States was tested in Boston that day. Hospitals were ready to handle the flood of victims who came to them with injuries that were anything but routine. Despite the three deaths and life altering injuries, many lives were saved. This was due to the constant training that YOU, the first responder takes seriously. Fire News would like to thank everyone who responded to the call of duty at the Boston Marathon. We would also like to thank our photographers who captured the moment in a professional and sensitive manor and risked their lives along side of the responders to document history. In the end, you continue to serve the United States of America as our First Responders. Congratulations on a job well done! -Dennis
Where Are Your Department’s Photos? We would like to remind our readers that we are always happy to receive photos and stories. Feel free to e-mail your photos to Tim@FireNews.com. We ask that any photo you do send be high resolution (300 dpi or better) and that you do not retouch, crop, alter or reduce your photos in size when you email them to us. Please send two to four photos per incident. Also, include a brief write-up of the incident, event, or family news, which includes basic “who, what, when, and where information.” We look forward to seeing your department in our next issue. - Ed.
ANNOUNCEMENTS SUFFOLK COUNTY BASED CHARITY TO RECEIVE FEDERAL FEMA FIRE GRANT Through the efforts of JSK Inc., The Grant Guys, the Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund was awarded $461,000 through the Assistance to Firefighter Grant Program to enhance recruitment and retention among the county and state's volunteer fire service. JKS Inc. is a Williston Park Long Island based fire grant writer. According to JKS Inc., "this award will allow the high successful Terry Farrel Fund to expand into an area of recruitment and retention, which it has sought funding for many years." said Rachel Rodriguez, Grants Associate at JKS. The Terry Farrell fund is a Long Island based charity that is dedicated to helping the families of firefighters, and fire departments in economically troubled parts of New York State. The fund has proven so popular it currently has chapters throughout the nation. There are currently small fire departments with membership waiting lists that are unable to equip new members with personal protective equipment.
ANNUAL PHOENIX FIRECAMP The 7th Annual Phoenix Firecamp, a free weeklong overnight camp for girls ages 14-19, will be held July 21-26, 2013, at the Utica Fire Training Academy. The program, conducted by Fire Service Women of NYS, Inc. (FSWNYS), in partnership with the Westmoreland Volunteer Fire Department and the Utica Fire Department, is designed to acquaint young women with their opportunities in fire and emergency services. Phoenix Firecamp is free, except for a non-refundable $100 application fee. A maximum of 24 campers are accepted annually from a national field of candidates. Applications are now being accepted and must be postmarked by May 1, 2013 to be considered. All the Phoenix information and the application are posted at: www.fswnys.org.
TRAINING SEMINAR SUPPORTS JOSEPH P. DIBERNARDO FOUNDATION
The First Annual Training Seminar to benefit the Joseph P. DiBernardo Memorial Foundation will be held on June 29 through June 30, 2013, at 0800 to 1700. In honor and memory of “Joey D,” the foundation is presenting a two-day training seminar. Learn from some of the top fire department instructors in America. Speaking will be Deputy Chief Vincent Dunn, FDNY (ret.), Firefighting in Private Dwellings and Strip Malls; Battalion Chief Frank Montagna, FDNY, Utility Emergency Tactics; Battalion Chief John Salka, FDNY (ret.), Get Out Alive training; Captain Mike Dugan, FDNY (ret.), Truck Company Operations; Capt. Bobby Morris, FDNY, Forcible Entry Tactics; Capt. Tony Tricarico, FDNY (ret.), Elevator Emergencies; Firefighter John O'Connell, FDNY (ret.), Collapse Shoring Updates. There will be a special introduction by FDNY Chief of Department Ed Kilduff. The seminar offers 16 hours of solid training from the best of the best. All of the proceeds go to the foundation for the purpose of saving firefighters lives through training and the purchase of personal life saving ropes. The cost for the two-day seminar, which will be held at the Brookhaven National Lab, is $200, paid in advance. To get to the Brookhaven National Lab take exit 68 on the Long Island Expressway (LIE), north on the William Floyd Parkway, County Road 46, 1.5 miles north of the LIE. Send checks to the Lt. Joseph P. DiBernardo Memorial Foundation, P.O. Box 47, East Setauket, NY 11733 or pay via PayPal/credit card on our website www.joeydfoundation.org. Please include the name, address and email of attendee(s). Photo identification is required to enter BNL. There is limited seating so register early for this event. Contact Chief DiBernardo at joeydfoundation@gmail.com or 631-689-7484 with questions.
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Flames Spread to Multiple Structures Around 1800 on April 23, 2013, the City of Mount Vernon Fire Department received multiple calls for a house fire on Beechmont Avenue. Callers reported the flames were coming from a house with the house next door catching fire. Engine 6 reported heavy smoke in the area and soon after confirmed the working house fire. Arriving companies found heavy fire venting from the first floor on all sides of the 2-1/2 story private home. The exposure was also involved. A resident told local media that she returned home from work to find a fire in the basement. In all, 19 people were displaced by the fire, which spread to a third exposure before being placed under control, almost three hours later. -Fire News photos by Mike Messar
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Page 6, Fire News, June 2013
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Cover Story
Two Alarm Blaze Battled In Schenectady
Schenectady firefighters were called out shortly after 0230 to battle a two-alarm fire in a two family home on Odell Street. Flames quickly consumed the house bringing every piece of apparatus to the scene, as well as an engine crew from neighboring Scotia Fire Department. It was a “surround and drown� from the get go. Flames caused the roof to collapse sending flames 30-feet into the air. One occupant was treated for smoke inhalation at a local hospital. -Fire News photos by Peter Barber
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Mt. Vernon Battles Third Floor Flames
On April 16, 2013, Mt. Vernon responders brought a fire under control that was on the third floor of a building on Forster Avenue. It took firefighters just under an hour to safely bring the blaze under control. -Fire News photo by Mike Messar
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Fire News, June 2013, Page 9
Third Alarm Destroys Circleville Dwelling
On the afternoon of April 24, 2013, Circleville (Orange County) flames, along with a tanker task force. A request for a third alarm firefighters responded to a reported structure fire on Baldwin Hill quickly followed, with mutual aid from numerous neighboring Road. Upon arrival, a working fire was reported in a large 2-1/2 departments. The fast moving blaze gutted the structure. -Fire News photo by Steve Lenz story frame dwelling. A second alarm was requested to battle the
Page 10, Fire News, June 2013
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Brush Fire Beat in Latham
On April 6, 2013, the Latham Fire Department responded to a brush call on a deadend portion of Grandview Drive. The area was engulfed with smoke as the firefighters trekked almost a half mile into the wooded area to find the fire. The Verdoy and Boght fire departments were called to aid in the task of putting out the large brush fire. High winds and discarded construction materials
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dumped in the area made it difficult for the firefighters to put out the flames that burrowed under items. The departments spent hours making sure all the popup fires were fully out. The area is a known hang-out for teenagers and the homeless. -Fire News photo by Lori Washburn
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Fire News en-Prose BROTHERHOOD Flames through the roof, never a good sign, Lives in danger, including my buddies and mine. Geared up to the hilt we're through the front door, Feeling our way to make sure there's a floor. Hose line in hand we advance room to room, Unaware of the dangers that could possibly loom. Hearing the crackling of wood, the house is pitch black, I've got my brothers behind me, they've got my back. The heat is intense in this fiery hell, Things just went south, the roof has now fell. Trapped in the rubble our yells are all mumbled, A situation like this you become very quickly humbled. Units still arriving, our lives at their will, Pass alarms now ringing as we all lay there still. "They'll be able to find us", a thought without doubt, Radio goes off, "knock that fire down and get our guys out"! A mind starts to wander about the life you have had, You think about your family, the good and the bad. You hope that the love that you gave could be enough, For a lifetime of memories, without you it'll be rough. Flashback to reality, hearing our names being called, Our brothers are coming through the exterior walls. They're determined to find us; they won't leave us behind, The oath of a firefighter etched deep in my mind. They've breached through the walls, from outside a light, The fires knocked down and we've all won this fight. I will always remember this day in my life, I was able to go home, kiss my kids and my wife. The day is now done and no one did fall, We'll be there tomorrow to answer the call! -Fire News poem by Michael A. Turano
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A BOY WITH A DREAM For years a young boy has been following a dream, A desire, not unheard of, by a child it seems. He would find himself chasing the sirens and lights, Pedaling that bicycle with all of his might. He'd sometimes catch up and watch them in awe, And witness the men, in their gear, break down a door. They had axes and hoses to get the job done, He knew it was dangerous, but it sure looked like fun. The fire is out and the smoke cleared away, He thinks "that's going to be me one of these days". He's seen all the movies and watched all the shows, His idols portrayed as true to life heroes. After waiting forever, the time is now here, His patience is gone, wants to get it in gear. He goes to a firehouse and knocks on the door, Unaware of what's inside and not sure what's in store. He's not sure what to say, arranging words in his mind, The door opens, a familiar face smiles; he's going to be fine. For the next few hours he gets informed of the basics, And gets told it takes special type of people to actually make it. There are meetings and training's and calls at all hours, And the frequency of calls is not within our powers. You'll put your trust in your brothers, your newly found kin, Because when others are running out, we all run in. You'll be part of a team, you won't be alone, We protect life and property, and then we all go home. We fight manmade disasters and weather in it's extreme, They'll be things you'll encounter that you've never seen. There will be days of gratification, and few with a frown, For unexpected occurrences when a brother goes down. He's accepted the challenge and is up to the deed, To be there for the call, when his neighbors are in need. He has taken an oath that he swears to uphold, To be proud, and prepared, for when things unfold. He's on his first call and helps take down a door, At the curb stands a boy with his bike, watching in awe! -Fire News poem by Michael A. Turano
Page 12, Fire News, June 2013
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Cohoes Goes to Work
On April 8, 2013, the Cohoes Fire Department responded to a Island, Troy and Watervliet. Chief Fahd stated, “The guys did a reported house fire on Younglove Avenue at around 1400. When great job and there were no injuries reported for the call.� There units arrived on the scene, fire and heavy smoke was blowing out of was no one home at the time of the fire. -Fire News photo by Tom Heffernan the rear of the two-story, wood frame building. Cohoes Fire Chief Joseph Fahd immediately requested mutual aid from the Green
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Vacant Structure Burns in Schenectady
Schenectady firefighters responded to a fire in a vacant house on Duane Avenue after police patrols discovered smoke coming from the two-story, wood frame structure. After numerous calls and a pulled street box came pouring into dispatch, a second alarm was sounded. One firefighter was treated at the scene for a minor eye injury. The fire was brought under control in less than one hour. -Fire News photos by Peter Barber
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Heroes Join Forces To Create New Charity Hudson Valley Guns and Hoses Vice President Edward Fenichel (left) and Community Foundation of Dutchess County Vice President Christine Kane look on as President Stephen Reverri signs the formal contract making HV Guns and Hoses a part of the Community Foundation of Dutchess County).
Like a scout sitting in the stands watching a high school ball player who has the potential to be a big leaguer, signing him and taking him to the big show, three local public safety members saw a big league opportunity for their community. Although it wasn’t the major leagues they had in mind, or even a player; it was charity through the camaraderie of public safety. Jeffrey Moseman of the City of Poughkeepsie F.D., Edward Fenichel of the City of Poughkeepsie Police Department, along with Tom
Hubmaster of the Hudson Valley Renegades and Bill Gilbert of BG Entertainment had a simple idea around this time last year: a baseball game on 9/11 with local police officers and firefighters playing to raise money for charity. Stephen Reverri of the Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office, became part of the committee and together they were able to make the game, dubbed “Guns vs. Hoses,” a reality. The game went on without a hitch; bringing more than 1,500 people together in support of public safety. New York Giant Hakeem Nicks, New York Ranger Ron Greschner, ex-New York Met and Yankee Dwight Gooden and New York Yankee Shane Spencer were all there thanks to BG Entertainment to show their support and provide the crowd autographs and memorable photos. The money raised went to the Paul Tegtmeier Memorial Fund and the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Foundation. Moseman, Fenichel and Reverri had witnessed firefighters and police officers working together at emergency calls for years. Now, in a different environment, the firefighters’ and police officers’ friendship on and off the field, during the practices and at the meetings, shined. The idea of Guns and Hoses being more than just a single baseball game hit them and the research about how to make this a charitable organization began. Reverri, who serves on the Board of Directors for several non-profit organizations including the Ryan McElroy Children’s Cancer Foundation and the New Horizons Foundation, had worked with the Community Foundation of Dutchess County in the past and was aware of their mission to work directly with people to create permanent charitable funds and make grants that strengthen the community so the quality of life in Dutchess County's future will be even better. He, Fenichel, and Moseman explored the opportunity of becoming part of the foundation and their parent agency, Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley, by contacting Christine Kane, Vice-President of the Community Foundation of Dutchess County. After several meetings, it was agreed that the Hudson Valley Guns and Hoses and the Community Foundation of Dutchess County would be a perfect fit. On February 14, 2013 it became official. Reverri, who was named President of HVGnH by Moseman (Vice-President) and Fenichel (Treasurer), signed the contract and Hudson Valley Guns and Hoses officially joined the Community Foundation of Dutchess County, just like a highly recruited prospect would want to attend a top NCAA program or get a big league contract. The exception here is that the contract ensures that our public safety community, working hand in hand, will continue their charitable endeavors by implementing their mission: helping their brothers and sisters in need and assisting children in the community. For more information on the Hudson Valley Guns and Hoses, visit their facebook page or email HVGunsandHoses@ gmail.com. For more information on the Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley visit www.cfhvny.org. -Fire News photo by Steve Reverri
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Home Destroyed in Rotterdam
Rotterdam District 2 firefighters responded to a two-alarm fire on Guilderland Avenue in the town of Rotterdam. Police officers on routine patrol came upon the fully involved house fire. Arcing power lines in front of the house hampered efforts to get initial
water on the fire. The two occupants of the home escaped before flames consumed the entire structure. Carman and South Schenectady's tower ladders were put into operation to contain the blaze. - Fire News photo by Peter Barber
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Page 18, Fire News, June 2013
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Barn Fire in Wallkill
Wallkill firefighters responded to a reported barn fire at Bruyn Tpk and Lippincott Road on April 8, 2013. Upon arrival, Wallkill Assistant Chief R. Malatesta (64-3) reported a working barn fire on Bruyn Turnpike and requested mutual aid from Modena, Plattekill, Shawangunk Valley and Pine Bush. Walden was placed on standby at Wallkill Station. The first-due engine (64-11) made the initial attack with attack lines. Wallkill's tanker (64-12) sup-
plied additional water. An aggressive attack prevented the fire from spreading to adjacent structures. The cause was determined to be a faulty wire on the battery of a bulldozer, according to Ulster County Fire Investigator J. Bales (56J). Wallkill ambulance stood by at the scene. The barn and machinery inside were a total loss. No injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by Steve Lenz, Wallkill F.D.
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Home in Bellevue Section Burns Recently, Schenectady firefighters were called to a two-alarm fire on Broadway in the city’s Bellevue section. Flames were seen pouring from a second floor bedroom of the home. A man had to be rescued from a flat section of the roof after he became trapped by flames. The fire was knocked down and brought under control without incident. -Fire News photo by Peter Barber
Quick Knockdown in Albany On April 30, 2013, the Albany Fire Department responded to a reported house fire on Keeler Drive at around 1600. The first arriving companies reported a heavy fire condition. Fire Chief Robert Forezzi stated that firefighters went to work and knocked down the flames, keeping it to a singlealarm fire. The chief stated that there was a lot of damage to the residence.There were no reported injuries and the fire is under investigation. -Fire News photo by Tom Heffernan
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Lake Carmel Structure Damaged in MVA
Columbia Street Blaze Under Investigation
On March 30, 2013, at 1545, the Lake Carmel Fire Department was dispatched to a reported car into a house with injury on Cottage Road. When the chiefs arrived they found a vehicle that went partially through the foundation of a house with the two occupants out of the vehicle. EMS arrived and immediately began treating both patients, who were later transported to Danbury Hospital by Carmel Volunteer Ambulance and Putnam County Medic Three with non-life threatening injuries. Rescue crews arrived on scene and began stabilizing the vacant structure. Two jacks were used to raise a support beam until the vehicle was removed. Due to the severely damaged foundation the Kent building inspector was requested and the building was deemed uninhabitable. When the vehicle was removed the beam was lowered onto a wood support. Assisting in the call was 1711 (command), 1713 (operations), 1761 (rescue), 1744 (engine) and fire police. Mutual aid was provided by Carmel Ambulance 3172, Putnam County Medic 3, Kent Police and Putnam County Sheriff Department. -Fire News story by Shawn Madsen
Schenectady firefighters got a report of a structure fire in a vacant home on Columbia Street. Smoke was discovered coming from a first floor window and a second alarm was struck. Firefighters made quick work of the flames as they knocked down the fire that consumed the kitchen. The cause of the fire is under investigation. -Fire News photo by Peter Barber
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Historic Yonkers Building Destroyed by Fire
Just before noon on April 26, 2013, the Yonkers Fire Department dispatched one engine for a report of outside smoke in the area of Buena Vista Avenue on the city’s west side. Engine 303 arrived to find smoke from the windows of a 121-year old, vacant building and requested a full first alarm. Companies found fire between the first
and second floors of the former music hall that was slated to become a high rise apartment complex after an $8 million dollar renovation. The labor intensive fire reached a third alarm assignment before it was placed under control in about 90 minutes. Two firefighters were treated for minor injuries. -Fire News photos by Mike Messar
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Mobile Homes Burn in the Town of Florida
Early in May, firefighters hit hot spots on three motor homes that burned at a dealership in the Town of Florida. A total of six volunteer departments responded to bring the fire under control. No injuries were reported for the operation and the fire was under investigation. -Fire News photo by Mark Perfetti
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Page 24, Fire News, June 2013
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Air Assist Needed at Altamont MVA
On April 27, 2013, at 1508, the Guilderland Police Department received several calls for a serious head-on crash on Dunnsville Road at Becker Road. Upon arrival officers found two vehicles that sustained heavy damage and were off the road. It was reported that a pick-up truck was traveling southbound and crossed over into the northbound lane, striking a car. One driver suffered severe back and head trauma and was airlifted to Albany Medical
Center Hospital by Life Net. The other driver suffered back and neck pain and was transported to the hospital by the Western Turnpike Rescue Squad. The Altamont Fire Department, Altamont Rescue Squad, Western Turnpike Rescue Squad, and Guilderland Center Fire Department aided the Guilderland and Albany County paramedics. -Fire News photo by Tom Heffernan
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Firefighters Have a Busy Night
Schenectady firefighters found the rear of this house fully engulfed in flames as the tones went out shortly after 0200. Quick work by firefighters knocked down the flames, sparing neighboring houses. This would end up being a busy night for Shift 2 because two hours later they would confront a three-alarm fire that claimed the lives of four city residents on Hulett Street. -Fire News photos by Peter Barber
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Albany Paramedic Hit While Responding
On April 11, 2013, Albany Fire Department Paramedic Rescue #2 transported to Albany Medical Center. The driver of the SUV was responding to a call shortly after 2130, with red lights and siren refused medical attention. It was raining at the time of the accident. on. As they entered the intersection of State Street and South Pearl The Albany police were investigating the cause. -Fire News photo by Tom Heffernan Street the crew was broadsided by an SUV. Both paramedics were
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Four Killed in Hamilton Hill
Three children and one adult were killed in a three-alarm fire on Hulett Street in Schenectady’s Hamilton Hill neighborhood. Half of the department was still at Station 1 about a half-mile away filling air bottles and repacking fire hose after battling a two-alarm fire on Swan Street, when multiple calls came in reporting heavy fire coming from the second floor of a two-family home. The first floor residents were brought out without incident, however the occupants on the second floor were trapped, as the fast moving flames engulfed the entire second and third floors. One by one, victims were brought out of the house and taken to waiting ambulances. One five-year-old girl was taken by helicopter to the Westchester Burn Unit in critical condition with burns over 90 percent of her body. The fire was an arson and arrests have been made. -Fire News photos by Peter Barber
Page 28, Fire News, June 2013
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INDUSTRY News Swamp People RJ & Jay Paul to appear at Fire Expo
Storm Lake F.D., Iowa
Harrisburg, PA— TV personalities RJ and Jay Paul from the History Channel’s hit reality series “Swamp People” are making a guest appearance at Fire Expo in Harrisburg, PA, May 17 and 18. RJ and his son Jay Paul, known for their alligator catching skills , joined the show in season two. Al-though the producers were only looking for 1 new “Swamp Person” RJ wouldn’t do the show without his son Jay Paul by his side. The rest is literally History! Jay Paul started the 2013 season off by jumping in the water after a wounded alligator! Needless to say he survived and will be appearing at this year’s Fire Expo in Harrisburg, PA courtesy of Mid-Atlantic Rescue Systems and Res-cue One Connector and Inflatable Boats. You can meet RJ and Jay Paul at the Mid– Atlantic Rescue Systems Booth # 958-961 in the North West Hall. Mid-Atlantic Rescue Systems is also a dealer for Rescue One Boats, F-500, Res-Q-Jack, Holmatro, Tomar, TURK, Rescue Tech, Turbo Draft, and the NEW HexArmor Extrication glove! Please visit www.midatlanticrescue.com for more information.
On a visit to Storm Lake, Mike and Judy Hellman were treated to a tour of the Iowa fire department by Chief Mike Jones. Storm Lake, population 12,500, is in the northwest corner of the state and right by a beautiful lake. It came to be in the 1870s when the railroad came to town, and is the county seat of Buena Vista County. It has a university, Buena Vista University with a student population of 1524, and industry consisting of Hillshire Brands Company (turkey processor) and Tyson Foods (pork processor). The city itself is 4.08 square miles but, according to Chief Jones, the fire department is responsible for covering approximately 90 square miles. The Storm Lake Fire Department was established in 1881 and since 1920 the fire headquarters shared a building in the center of the city with the city hall and police. In 1978 they moved into new, spacious quarters centrally located in the city. The services consist of suppression, prevention, inspections, haz-mat and rescue operations (EMS is handled by the regional medical center). Chief Jones added that they are currently training for grain bin rescue. -Fire News story by Mike Hellmann -Fire News photos by Judy Hellmann
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Overturn in Niskayuna Niskayuna Fire District 1 members responded to a rollover accident on Grand Boulevard near Regent Street. The driver of the car swerved to the right hand side of the road, struck a decorative boulder and rolled the car onto its roof. The driver self extricated and was taken by Niskayuna Fire District 1 ambulance to Ellis Hospital for treatment of minor injuries. -Fire News photo by Peter Barber
Car Crashes into Apartments in Delmar On April 28, 2013, Bethlehem police reported that an 18-year-old driver had been drinking and crashed into a Cherry Avenue apartment complex. It was reported that the vehicle was traveling west on Hurron Road at a high rate of speed when it ran a stop sign and left the roadway, barreling into the Maple Manor Apartments. The occupants of the vehicle escaped injury. The Delmar Fire Department, Albany County paramedics and a Bethlehem ambulance responded to the scene. -Fire News photo by Tom Heffernan
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Minivan Goes Airborne in Rotterdam
Three people were taken by ambulance to area hospitals after a spectacular two-vehicle collision at the intersection of Guilderland Avenue and Draper Avenue in Rotterdam. The force of the collision caused a minivan to become airborne, ejecting a front seat passenger and hitting the Bellevue Baptist Chapel. Significant damage to the structure resulted from the crash. The vehicle came to rest on its roof, next to the chapel. -Fire News photo by Peter Barber
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Explosions Reported While Responding in Pleasantville
The Pleasantville Fire Department responded to Lake Shore Drive in Pleasantville for a working structure fire. While en route units were informed of numerous calls that were reporting explosions. Upon arrival heavy fire was through the roof of the wood frame house. Propane tank explosions contributed to they heavy damage and quick fire spread throughout the house. Departments on scene included Pleasantville, Valhalla, Thornwood, Chappaqua, Millwood, Pocantico Hills and Sleepy Hollow. -Fire News photo by Tony Ciancio -Fire News story by Daniel Lester
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FASNY RecruitNY Well Attended in West Sand Lake
Members of West Sand Lake stand outside of their department during RecruitNY on April 28, 2013. They were honored by the number of residents who stopped by during their open house to pick up applications to join the department. -Fire News photo by Lori A. Washburn
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Vigilant F.D. Trains on Swift Water Rescue
Vigilant Volunteer Fire Department hosted another Basic Swift Water Rescue training class. Vigilant has the commitment in striving to provide continuous training to be ready for a water rescue incident. Instructors came in from Colorado to train the class of 29
participants, which were from town fire departments. The class consisted of classroom as well as in-water instructions. We are proud to say we have 28 more individuals on the town Water Rescue Team to strengthen the team. -Fire News photo by Dan Barone
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L.O.D.D
John Janos Answers Final Alarm Binghamton Firefighter/Paramedic John Janos was laid to rest on the morning of April 10, 2013, following his line of duty death in the early morning hours of Saturday April 6, 2013. Shortly after midnight on April 6, crews were dispatched to Henry Street for a report of an activated fire alarm. On-scene crews climbed at least five flights of stairs to check for fire and clear the alarm. After returning from the call Firefighter Janos mentioned he was not feeling well and returned to his bunk. He was found deceased in his bunk shortly after 0700 that morning. At the time of his passing Firefighter Janos was 57-years-old. He was hired by the City of Binghamton Fire Department in 1988 and served honorably for over 24 years. He was assigned to Quint 21-3 at the West State Street Fire Station. During his career Janos served as a paramedic and hazmat specialist. He also served several years as the Union President of
Binghamton Fire I.A.F.F. Local 729. John Janos was known as a person that was always willing to help. Whether it was on or off the job he would be the first one to step up to the plate. He was also known as a loving family man who leaves behind a wife of 34-years, two sons, and a daughter. He will be greatly missed by family, friends, and firefighting brothers and sisters alike. Firefighters and police officers from across the Northeast showed up to honor Firefighter Janos as he took a final ride with the Binghamton Fire Department. The sound of bagpipes filled the morning air and flashing lights could be seen as the procession made its way through Binghamton. To Firefighter/Paramedic John M. Janos: Rest easy brother, your job is done. We will take it from here knowing that you will always be in our hearts. -Fire News story by Nicholas Griswold
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Lt. Nappi Remembered at Engine 237
On April 16, 2013, family, friends, firefighters and dignitaries from comraderie that the fire service exemplifies on a daily basis. all over New York City attended a plaque dedication ceremony to Everyone will remember Lt. Nappi for his dedication and commitremember FDNY Lt. Richie Nappi who passed away last year while ment to excellence in the fire service. -Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam operating at a commercial structure fire. The standing-room-only crowd at Engine 237, Brooklyn, was a true testimony to the love and
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Bronx Five Alarmer in Wakefield
Recycling Plant Burns in the Bronx
Firefighters in the Wakefield section of the Bronx battled what turned out to be a five-alarm blaze on May 2, 2013. The fire ripped through 10 businesses and devastated the area. Fire investigators are trying to determine the cause of the blaze that was responsible for closing the NYC subway system in the area. Ten firefighters were treated for smoke inhalation. -Fire News photo by Lou Minutoli
Flames were knocked down in a recycling plant on Boston Post Road in the far northeast corner of the Bronx. Thirteen companies responded and had the fire knocked down in under an hour. The fire involved pallets of plastic goods for recycling. -Fire News photo by Mike Messa
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Queens Prevails Over the Bronx
The FDNY King of the Ice Final was held at the Nassau Coliseum on April 14, 2013, just before the FDNY/NYPD hockey game. Congratulations to Far Rockaway's Big House, which won the tournament, and to the Bronx-Morris Avenue House who came in second place. The Big House won the game with a score of 4-0. -Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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Bless Our Fire Riders On April 28, 2013, the Riders of Fire Motorcycle Club held their 10th Annual Blessing of the Bikes. Participating in the event were members of the Fire Department of the City of New York, who rode to Our Lady of the Island Shrine in Manorville, NY, to support the event. -Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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Terry Farrell FireFighters Fund “Surplus Equipment Program” has assisted fire departments throughout upper New York State with much needed turnout gear, hoses, tools and even several vehicles. All of this is possible through the generous support of Long Island Fire Departments. We now need the help of volunteers to assist us with • Equipment deliveries • Drive our vehicles in parades • Man our booths at Fire Dept. tournaments, festivals & functions • Assist with the collection of gear from donating department No one is paid in our organization but the feeling of helping firefighters who receive our donations and assistance and the gratitude they show to us is payment enough. To Volunteer of for more information about our fund please go to our website terryfarrellfund.org. Or email terryfund@verizon.net Thank You, Brian Farrell
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FDNY Rules the Ice
On April 14, 2013, the Fire Department of the City of New York’[s hockey team played the New York City Police Department hockey team at the Nassau Coliseum on Long Island. For the fifth year in a row, the FDNY proved to be victorious, beating the NYPD by a score of three to two. The game was well played by both teams. Congratulations to the FDNY hockey team! -Fire News photos by Bryan Sypniewski and Dennis Whittam
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