2008 WNYF

WNYF

1st/2008

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Training, Training, Training-The Lifeblood of FDNY or our 11,000 Firefighters and Fire Officers, training is one of the most important parts of the job. Training helps keep Firefighters safe and it keeps the residents of this great City safe. It allows our members to fulfill the FDNY’s mission to protect life and property and to make it home safely at the end of each tour.

That’s why, as your Commissioner, I have quadrupled training at the FDNY. I have continually worked to expand training programs and provide learning opportunities for members of all ranks: proby school has been expanded by 40 percent, from 13 weeks to 23 weeks, and senior Fire and EMS personnel have attended advanced training at our FDNY Officers Management Institute (FOMI)--a partnership with Columbia University. For the first time in Department history, we’ve instituted a three-week training program for newly promoted Captains and we’re about to launch one for Deputy Chiefs as well.

We’ve also enhanced training for Lieutenants and Battalion Chiefs, including a continuing education day for the latter.

This year, we’re launching several new training initiatives.

Soon, we will begin using Mobile Training Vehicles (MTVs) as part of a new field training program.

These customized vehicles will be deployed daily to bring in-service training to every firehouse throughout the City. The MTVs will provide for training on forcible entry techniques, a maze simulator for search and rescue drills, Personal Safety System (PSS) deployment and roof-cutting simulator. Primary funding for the MTVs is being provided by the City’s Borough Presidents.

In January, we broke ground on a $4.5 million, state-of-the-art high-rise simulator at the FDNY Training Academy on Randall’s Island. The high-rise simu-

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lator, paid for with funding from the Leary Firefighters Foundation, the FDNY Foundation and the Department of Homeland Security, is designed to replicate conditions found in high-rise fires. The 4000-squarefoot structure--the only one of its kind in the United States--will be a four-story addition to Building 1 and be equipped with mock residential, office and commercial layouts.

And more training will be forthcoming as a result of the series of tests on wind-driven fires that were conducted on Governors Island in February. Thanks to the positive results we saw there, in May, we will begin a pilot program to develop new tactics for fighting wind-driven fires in high-rise residential buildings-some of the most dangerous operations that Firefighters face.

The pilot will be conducted in Divisions 1 and 3 in Manhattan, Battalion 43 in Brooklyn and Battalion 47 in Queens and involve training members from Chief Officers down. Battalion and Deputy Chiefs will be trained to implement the new tactics that were tested during the Governors Island experiments and companies will be trained in how to use fire blankets, mobile positive-pressure fans and high-rise nozzles to contain fire at high-rise residential jobs.

When it comes to keeping Firefighters safe, our job is never done. These initiatives will allow us to keep building upon the strengths of this Department and increase our preparedness for whatever dangers our brave Firefighters might face.

View From 9 MetroTech Center

WNYF is an official training publication of the New York City Fire Department

WNYF FEATURES

EDITORIAL BOARD

COLUMNS

Lexington Avenue Steam Pipe Explosion

Utility Hazards

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by Deputy Chief Robert J. Boyce, Jr.

Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta First Deputy Commissioner Frank P. Cruthers Deputy Commissioner Francis X. Gribbon Chief of Department Salvatore J. Cassano Chief of Operations Patrick M. McNally Chief of Training Assistant Chief Thomas R. Galvin Safety/Inspection Services Command Assistant Chief Allen S. Hay Bureau of Operations Deputy Assistant Chief Ronald R. Spadafora Executive Assistant to the Fire Commissioner Captain Thomas Kelly

10-40 Code 4, Steam Leak-Do You Know the Hazards?

Victim Tracking--Points to Consider During Multiple-Casualty Incidents 8

Runs and Workers--2007 Students’ Corner

UHF Radios in the Division and Battalion Vehicle Consoles 11

by Deputy Chief John A. Jonas

by Deputy Chiefs Peter J. Hart and John Mooney

DEPARTMENTS

FDNY IMT Deployment to Idaho 12

by Deputy Chief Robert Maynes

Photo Reporter All Hands Taking Up In Memoriam

A Melding of Urban and Wildland Firefighting in Idaho 16

by Captain Daniel P. Sheridan

Clean Fire Extinguishing Agents (Halon Replacements) 19

by Deputy Assistant Chief Ronald R. Spadafora

2007 Fire Service Intelligence Enterprise Conference

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by First Deputy Commissioner Frank P. Cruthers

Front Cover photo by Matthew P. Daly Bronx Box 75-2921, 1766 Eastburn Avenue, November 4, 2007.

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by Battalion Chief Steven San Filippo

STAFF

Editorial: (718) 999-1455, 1454

Fire and Emergency Operations at Buildings Hosting Cell Phone Sites 28

by Captain Thomas H. Roche (retired)

FDNY Foundation Uses DHS Grant to Implement City-wide Smoke Alarm Media Campaign 33 Propane Railcar Derailment in Queens

Director of Publications Stephen Paul Antonelli Production Thomas Ittycheria Special thanks to the following for their help with the publication of WNYF: Honorary Chief of Department Jack Lerch, Mand Library Photo and Audio-Visual Unit

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Compiled by Captain Brian Byrne

by Deputy Chief Daniel Donoghue

A Primer on Purple K

Editor Janet Kimmerly

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by Battalion Chief Frank C. Montagna

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by Assistant Chief John Acerno, Queens Borough Commander

Back Cover photo by Fire Marshal Daniel Maye Shot of 18- by 24-inch original oil on canvas painting by New York artist Roberta Lerch, wife of Honorary Chief of Department Jack Lerch. Donated to and on display at the Mand Library at the Fire Academy, Randall’s Island.

Checks for WNYF subscriptions should be made payable to the FDNY Foundation.

Subscriptions--Customer Service--(718) 999-2904 or e-mail WNYF@FDNYFIREZONE.ORG If you do not receive an issue in your paid WNYF subscription, notify Customer Service immediately.

Rates per Year: $16 in FDNY firehouses $24 by domestic mail $27 by foreign mail

Direct all subscription questions and send mail subscriptions and changes of address to: Customer Service WNYF Subscription Department FDNY Foundation 9 MetroTech Center, Room 5E-9 Brooklyn, New York 11201

Back Issue Prices: $5 at Headquarters $6 by domestic mail $7 by foreign mail Copyright 2008 FDNY

1st/2008 WITH NEW YORK FIREFIGHTERS

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26 39 50 51

Lexington Avenue Steam Pipe Explosion

photo by Lucas Jackson, New York Daily News

by Deputy Chief Robert J. Boyce, Jr.

Lexington Avenue/41st Street area.

The release sent a 150-foot geyser of scalding mud, rocks and steam flying in all directions, crashing through many windows. Escaping steam rose in a deafening, billowing roar, high above street level.

Arriving at 1804 hours, Battalion Chief John Joyce, Battalion 9, was advised by an NYPD sergeant that an explosion had occurred in the subway below Lexington Avenue and that there were three trains in the station. (After investigation, this turned out to be an inaccurate report.) A minute after his arrival, Chief Joyce transmitted a third alarm. Engines 65, 3, 40 and 28, Ladders 35 and 3, Safety Operating Battalion and Battalion 4 (Staging Area Manager) and then Deputy Assistant (now Assistant) Chief John Coloe, the designated Command Chief, were assigned.

Simultaneously, a civilian excitedly reported to Chief Joyce that there were people trapped in two articulating City buses next to the explosion. At 1806 hours, Chief Joyce transmitted a fourth alarm. Engines 33, 39, 55 and 24, Ladders 7 and 25 and the Mask Service Unit were assigned.

Due to the extreme noise, face-to-face communications and handie-talkie were next to impossible in the vicinity of the escaping steam. The Officer of Rescue 1 reported in to the Incident Commander. Chief Joyce had him split his company to drive the buses in reverse out of the area and search the subway station. As Chief Joyce was establishing the inter-agency Command Post at Lexington Avenue and East 42nd Street, the Officer of Ladder 4 reported in. Chief Joyce ordered him to assist in removing the two buses from the proximity of the escaping steam. Each of the articulating buses held approximately 90 people.

Immediately thereafter, another excited civilian reported to him that a wall had collapsed and people were trapped in the basement of 380 Lexington Avenue. (This report also proved false.) Chief Joyce had his Battalion Firefighter search this basement. During the search, the Firefighter found a badly burnt woman (the tow truck’s passenger). Assisted by a member of Ladder 4, he removed her to the street.

The plan to drive the buses in reverse away from the escaping steam proved futile because of the amount of debris in the street.

Members of Rescue 1 and Ladder 4 removed many of the buses’ occupants by physically carrying them over the steaming water

ometime after 1130 hours on July 18, 2007, within a short period of time, New York City experienced an unusually heavy rainstorm of more than one and a half inches. Many of the City’s primary and secondary roadways experienced flooding.

Most FDNY companies were busy during the afternoon, responding to storm- and water-related emergencies.

At 1757 hours, the Manhattan Communications Office received a verbal alarm from Engine 21--while they were responding to another alarm--for a transformer explosion. The following units were assigned--Engines 21, 8 and 16, Ladders 24 and 4, plus Battalion 9. Almost immediately, Captain Richard Patterson transmitted a second alarm for a transformer Incident Commander explosion. At 1758 hours, COD Salvatore J. Cassano Squad 18, Engines 26, 1, 54, 23 Safety Officer Liaison Officer AC Allen S. Hay ABC Patrick Murtagh (Bn-8) and 34, Ladders 21, 12 and 16 (designated as the FAST unit), Assistant Safety Officer Assistant Safety Officer Information Officer BC James Yakimovich BC John Donnelly (Bn-10) Deputy Commissioner Battalions 7, 6 (Resource Unit Frank Gribbon Leader) and 10 (Safety Officer), Division 3, Rescue 1, RAC 01, Operations Section Chief Planning Logistics Chief of Operations Field Communications Unit and Patrick McNally Recuperation & Resource Unit Leader Deputy Operations Engine 9/Satellite 1 were Care Unit (RAC) BC Edward Carney (Bn-6) Section Chief AC John Coloe assigned. Units responded to the Communications

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Finance/ Administration

Documentation

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WNYF 1st/2008

flowing in the street. The civilians were protected from the falling debris by covering their heads with the members’ helmets.

Multiple trips were required to remove all of the passengers.

Chief Joyce transferred Command to Deputy Chief Robert Boyce (covering Division 3) at 1808 hours. Chief Boyce divided the incident into four more manageable Sectors, consisting of the northwest, northeast, southwest and southeast corners of Lexington Avenue and East 41st Street. He ordered Chief Joyce to supervise the northwest Sector, which included 374 and 380 Lexington Avenue and 122 East 42nd Street. Due to the jet-engine roar of the escaping steam, Chief Boyce re-established the Command Post inside the Strawberry Store on the northwest corner of Lexington Avenue and East 42nd Street.

While Chief Joyce and his Battalion Firefighter surveyed and sized up their Sector, they found a woman on the corner of Lexington Avenue and East 41st Street, approximately 25 feet from the escaping steam crater. She was being burned by the steam and pummeled by debris. As they removed her, they noticed her right leg below the knee was barely attached. They removed her into 380 Lexington Avenue where Engine 54 members took her to waiting Emergency Medical Service personnel.

Battalion Chief Kevin Woods, Battalion 1, supervised operations in the northeast Sector, which included 128 and 150 East 42nd Street. Battalion Chief Christopher Lennon, Battalion 7, directed operations in the southwest Sector, which included 370 and 364 Lexington Avenue. Acting Battalion Chief Steve Corcoran, Battalion 2, supervised operations in the southeast Sector, which consisted of 369 and 363 Lexington Avenue.

Due to the large amount of debris seemingly falling from the numerous surrounding high-rise commercial buildings and the unknown structural damage, Chief Boyce transmitted a signal 1060. Division 1, SL-01 (Special Operations Command Logistics), SC-01 (Special Operations Command Compressor), Squads 1 and 288, TR-1 (Technical Response Vehicle), Rescues 2 and 4, HazMat 1, Hazardous Materials Battalion, Ladders 116 and 14 and SSL-131 and 117 were assigned. To have reserve and relief units at the scene, Chief Boyce transmitted a fifth alarm and ordered all these units to report to the Staging Area on East 42nd Street, underneath Park Avenue. Engines 14, 5, 44 and 22 were assigned at 1820 hours. Chief Coloe assumed Command at approximately 1823 hours.

Chief of Operations Patrick McNally arrived on-scene at 1828 hours. He assumed command until Chief of Department Salvatore J. Cassano’s arrival at 1833 hours.

Lessons learned/reinforced • Treat every blast/explosion as a potential terrorist event. While relatively early on this incident was determined to be an accidental steam discharge, it easily could have been a Vehicle Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) that severed the steam main 15 feet below the street. Every company should deploy its Radalert 50™ radiological monitors.

• Incident Command System (ICS) is built from the bottom up, not the top down. At this incident, the Sectors were logically designated by the four corners of East 41st Street and Lexington Avenue. All companies must report into the Command Post.

This provides for accountability and prevents freelancing.

Remember the basic characteristics of ICS: Manageable span of control--3:1 to 7:1 is the range of subordinates to supervisor ratios, with 5:1 as the ideal ratio.

Modular organization--Complex incidents call for a larger organizational structure.

Integrated communications--Initially, communications are on the Primary Tactical channel and later, on the Primary Command

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channel and perhaps the Secondary Tactical channels. Also useful are the Interoperability and FDNY/NYPD Tactical “U” frequencies and FDNY’s 800MHz and Post radios.

Incident Action Planning--The plan will be initiated according to FDNY’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Afterward, as conditions dictate, the Incident Commander will adapt and make changes.

Complex incidents require a written plan developed at the scene.

Resource management--This alarm was transmitted three minutes before a change of tours. FDNY has vulnerability when alarms are received within the last hour or so of a tour because members of both tours may respond. Company Officers and Firefighters must ensure proper relief procedures are followed. Company riding lists must be kept updated so everyone can be accounted for.

Accountability of resources initially is performed by the Incident Commander and then delegated to the Resource Unit Leader.

Designated Incident Facilities--For example, Command Post (CP), Staging Area (SA), Operations Post (OP), Recuperation and Care (RAC) Area, Decon and Safe Refuge Areas, etc., will exist.

Seek them out and employ them.

• City-wide Incident Management System (CIMS)--The firstarriving FDNY Officer is responsible for assessing the incident and either assuming or participating in Incident Command, depending on the type of incident. When a higher-ranking FDNY Officer arrives, he/she will take over this function from the first Officer. As supervisory personnel from various agencies arrive, the command element (single or unified) is established according to the CIMS command matrices. Early into this incident, according to CIMS, it was designated a single jurisdiction/multi-agency event and that all agencies would use a Unified Command element structure. Within an hour of the failure of the steam pipe, a Unified Command Post was established on Vanderbilt Avenue, near East 43rd Street, with Chief Cassano representing the FDNY. The former inter-agency Command Post at East 42nd Street and Lexington Avenue became the Unified Operations Section Post. All agency heads should report to the Unified Command Post and their Operations representative to the Unified Operations Post. Frequently, this is a deficiency that should be addressed in the After Action Report.

Tactical assignments are made according to the individual agency’s core competencies. Of FDNY’s six core competencies, the four immediate concerns we experienced were: 1. Search and rescue 2. Pre-hospital emergency medical care

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A Brief History on the NYC Steam Pipe System entral heating (to replace individual heating units) and its contributions to fire prevention cannot be underestimated. Early central steam service had the familiar advantages of immeasurably reducing fire hazards and, in the process, increasing realty values. The advent of steam generation for central heating started in New York in the 1870s. A well-known financier, Wallace C. Andrews, expanded the idea from a spirited pioneer and inventor from Lockport, New York, Birdsall Holly. Steam Heating and Power Company of New York was incorporated in July 1879.

Two years later, the name was changed to the New York Steam Company and began selling steam to Manhattan buildings in 1882. A severe test was imposed on the company by the blizzard of 1888. Since transporting coal through the streets was a monumental task, it was decided that all future power plants would be constructed on the waterfront.

In colder months, steam is used primarily for heating, while in the warmer months, it is used to run cooling systems. High-pressure steam powers turbines that drive compressors, which condense refrigerant into liquids that run air-conditioning systems. Steam also is used to produce hot water. Hospitals depend on steam and use it to sterilize instruments and humidify operating rooms.

Con Edison absorbed the underground steam network in the mid-1950s.

Originally coal fire-generated, the power plants later converted to natural gas.

Street steam pipes originally were insulated in mineral wool and they later converted to asbestos. Asbestos steam pipe insulation now is being replaced with woven fiberglass.

During the past two decades, at least a dozen steam pipe ruptures have killed several people, injured many more and, in several cases, sent asbestosladen mud into the air. Prior to the incident described in this article, the last large steam pipe explosion at which the Department operated occurred in the western intersection of East 20th Street and Third Avenue, in the Gramercy Park section of New York, on August 19, 1989.

The current steam pipe system consists of more than 100 miles of piping-a total of more than 880 blocks in Manhattan, the only borough with steam service. This system is a vital energy conduit to approximately 1800 customers.

Contrary to popular belief, the number of steam customers is increasing.

Approximately 95 percent of commercial buildings south of 96th Street-including the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, Time Warner Building, Chrysler Building, 8th Avenue Post Office, most hospitals and many schools and museums--use steam via a 16-inch service pipe from the street.

The cast-iron pipe delivering steam (at 350 degrees Fahrenheit) that failed in July 2007 was installed in 1924 (83 years old) and was insulated with asbestos. The 20-foot-long section was 20 inches in diameter. It was approximately 15 feet below the surface of the street, sharing the space with water and sewer pipes and wires and cables. Eleven valves in the network of pipes feeding the area had to be shut down to control the release.

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3. Structural evacuation and 4. Hazardous materials life safety operations and mass decontamination.

Search and rescue and structural evacuation were performed in the four Sectors by fire suppression forces. Pre-hospital care was provided by the CFR-D and Medical Branch resources.

Hazardous materials life safety and mass decontamination were handled by Haz-Mat Group resources.

• Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral material containing microscopic fibers with barbed ends. The three main types produced commercially are chrysotile (white) UN #2590, crocidolite (blue) UN #2212 and amosite (brown) UN #2212. Since 1980, asbestos has been less widely used. There is no known safe level of exposure to asbestos where asbestosis, lung cancer or malignant mesothelioma may not occur. According to Fire Tactics and Procedures, Hazardous Materials 3 (dated June 4, 2001), “Asbestos in its natural state or asbestos-containing material (ACM), which, when intact, does not present a health hazard. The hazard is created when the material becomes friable and is allowed into the atmosphere and is inhaled or ingested. This occurs when the material is disturbed during fire or overhaul operations, or flakes off from age or deterioration of the protective covering.” It goes on to say asbestos is used as insulation for Con Edison steam pipes, in their steam manholes and on their expansion joints.

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If asbestos is suspected, precautions must be taken: 1. Transmit radio code 10-80, specifying asbestos release.

2. To reduce the amount of decontamination, minimize the commitment of forces to expose as few members as possible.

3. Strictly enforce FDNY’s mask policy when operating in the contaminated area to reduce exposure.

4. The major concern of wet ACM is cross-contamination caused by tracking asbestos from one area to another.

5. Isolate members suspected of being contaminated. SCBA must be worn until decontamination procedures are initiated or member has been washed down.

Sampling and positive asbestos determination by the New York City Department of Environmental Protection will be lengthy. At a large steam pipe explosion, assume asbestos contamination and begin decon early. The decontamination process at a possible asbestos incident can be precautionary and completed before a positive determination has been made.

• Communications (both face-to-face and via handie-talkie) within approximately two blocks of the release were near impossible.

The roar of the steam discharge has to be experienced to be appreciated. Early on, it was decided to move the Command Post inside the Strawberry Store (northwest corner of East 42nd Street and Lexington Avenue). This was effective for a while, but the agencies outgrew the space. At future similar incidents, a nearby large indoor space must be considered for effective command functions. This space must be located where any associated noise levels are negated by distance or sheltering. This might place the Command Post out of the line of sight of the incident.

• Searches and victim removal--At this and future large-scale incidents involving numerous bigger buildings, searches are challenging. FDNY must improvise, adapt and overcome these challenges. Sectoring is how we overcome managing these seemingly monumental tasks.

Initially identifying the buildings affected by the blast that needed to be searched and assigning logical units to each Sector was demanding. Immediately affected were seven buildings, all with multiple addresses and entrances and averaging more than 40 stories in height. Units assigned on the first and second alarms were heavily engaged, guiding the frightened evacuees fleeing the scene, assisting the ambulatory wounded, removing the nonambulatory victims and searching the streets, vehicles and belowgrade levels in the vicinity of the release. Because it was necessary to rapidly transmit alarms, third- and fourth-alarm units arrived before a Staging Area was established. These units, for the most part, were assigned to Sectors to assist in searches. The 10-60- and fifth-alarm companies primarily stood by at the Staging Area for relief. The usual challenges of companies charged with searching high-rise commercial buildings (large-floor areas, crossing floors and accessing the individual occupancies, etc.) were experienced and have to be overcome.

• The Hazardous Materials Branch Director or the Decontamination Group Supervisor (through the Incident Commander) should recognize early into an asbestos event the possibility of needing decon for members. He or she also needs to realize that it is timeconsuming to place resources and establish an effective operating Decon Corridor (Technical Decon). Early notification assists in administering a smooth decon operation.

The SOC Decon Support Unit responds from Roosevelt Island. It is staffed with one or two Firefighters. They will respond with Decon supplies and necessary forms. They are trained in setting up, troubleshooting and operating the Decon shower units.

Currently, there are three operational Decon shower units-Ladder 15 and Engines 37 and 283. Two more (Engines 251 and (continued on page 10)

WNYF 1st/2008

Utility Hazards

10-40 Code 4, Steam Leak-Do You Know the Hazards?

by Battalion Chief Frank C. Montagna ou are working in downtown Manhattan and receive an alarm for a reported explosion in the street. While responding, you consider the possibilities. It could be an electrical manhole or a transformer vault. It could be the gas tank of a car or truck. It could be the result of a natural gas leak and, reluctantly, you admit that it could be terrorism.

The dispatcher reports that numerous calls have been received and, as you approach the scene, you hear a loud, roaring noise and see a white plume of smoke pushing out from behind a building.

As you round the corner, you realize that what you are seeing is high-pressure steam boiling out of a gaping hole in the ground and rising in a white, turbulent plume. The noise is deafening and though you hear something come over the radio, you cannot make out what was said.

You are on the first-due truck at a steam main break. A section of the street has been blown away by the underground break and scalding steam is roaring out of the void. What do you do? What are the hazards? What help do you need? Are there victims in need of assistance? Can you help them?

These incidents occur infrequently and do not occur in all parts of the City. As a result, most Firefighters have never responded to such an incident and might not be sure of the correct answers to these questions. This article will explain the process of generating and delivering steam, how it is used, where it is found, the hazards associated with it and how to safely respond to a steam incident.

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all photos by Battalion Chief Frank C. Montagna

The Con Edison steam system Con Edison maintains more than 100 miles of buried steam pipe and supplies high-pressure steam to nearly 2000 buildings.

More than half of Con Ed’s steam is produced by co-generation, an environmentally efficient process where steam is used to turn turbines that generate electricity. It then is delivered through the underground network to Manhattan, where it is used in buildings for heating and hot water. Steam also is used for sterilization in hospitals and for cooking in restaurants. Additionally, steam pipes are positioned under some sidewalks to melt snow and ice.

Con Edison steam is produced by giant boilers--typically fueled by natural gas or oil--in generating plants found in Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens. The steam is produced at pressures reaching nearly 2000 psi at 900 degrees Fahrenheit and is

Photo #1--High-energy line break (steam leak).

WNYF 1st/2008

piped, underground, from the generating plants to where it is used in Manhattan from below 96th Street to the Battery. The highpressure steam found under the streets in Manhattan is typically at 170 psi and 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While this is lower than generation pressure and temperature, it still can be extremely dangerous if there is a major rupture. Steam pipes run under both the streets and sidewalks and manholes give utility workers access to the underground steam system.

Why pipes rupture Seeing steam vapor rising in the street is not unusual in downtown Manhattan. Often, it is not a steam leak, but instead is the result of water from water lines, sewer drains and other sources contacting the hot steam pipes and boiling off. Occasionally, however, steam pipes do fail. For example, when an unusually large amount of cold water--say from a broken water main--contacts a hot, high-pressure steam pipe, physical stresses can be created that the pipe cannot handle and, as a result, it may burst. This failure releases the high-pressure steam underground.

Additionally, if the steam in a section of pipe cools, water condensate may form inside the pipe. Most of this water is properly removed and does not result in any problems. Sometimes, however, it will be pushed along the pipe at high speed by the steam until it encounters a bend in the pipe. The water slug will slam into the bend with great force and can cause the pipe to fail.

Con Edison steam workers refer to steam pipe failures as high-energy line breaks (HELB). They can occur inside a power plant, out in the street or in a building supplied with steam. If not responded to correctly, a HELB can have deadly consequences.

HELB in a power plant There are many levels of grated ramps and platforms in a generating plant. Escaping steam quickly rises through the gratings to the upper levels of the power plant, filling it with steam, obscuring vision and making movement around the plant hazardous. A high-pressure steam leak is invisible near the source of the leak.

As it cools, the steam starts to condense and it is this condensate that Firefighters see and identify as steam. At the pressures and temperatures developed in a generating plant, a pinhole leak in a high-pressure steam pipe--though invisible near the source--is capable of cutting through a steel bolt like a hot knife through butter. (See photo #4.) On November 10, 1992, Captain Martin McTigue was badly burned and several other members of Rescue 4 were burned to a lesser degree by a steam leak at a Con Edison steam plant.

Photo #2--Steam manholes often are found in pairs, inserted into a concrete vault cover.

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Photo #3--Vent stacks direct steam up and away from the roadway.

Photo #4--Bolt severed by high pressure. Photo #5--Consult with the Con Edison White Hat before entering a steam-generating plant.

Other potentially deadly hazards found inside a power plant include high voltage (up to 345,000 volts), high-pressure natural gas lines, fuel oil and chemicals (acids and caustics).

Additionally, flammable gases under pressure and compressed gas cylinders--including oxygen, acetylene and hydrogen--can be found at these locations. You also will encounter sumps filled with near-boiling water, heavy machinery and moving equipment.

HELB in the street The pressure released in a HELB is high enough to cause an intact street to collapse or explode out as the high-pressure steam escapes from the ruptured pipe. The escaping high-pressure steam can hurl debris at 200 miles per hour, turning concrete, bricks, rock and manhole covers into deadly projectiles. It also can expose and damage underground high-voltage electric cables and gas mains.

High-pressure steam can obscure the vision of Firefighters and civilians, making driving hazardous for both. A collapsed street or a missing manhole cover may not be visible if it is within the steam plume and poses a danger to anyone walking in the area. Additionally, getting too close to the escaping steam can result in severe burns.

The deafening sound of escaping steam often renders radio and verbal communication ineffective in the vicinity of the break.

Since many underground steam pipes are wrapped in insulation that contains asbestos, a burst pipe can result in an asbestos release over a large area. Asbestos can be contained in the vapor plume and is a health hazard to anyone who breathes it. It will contaminate bunker gear, equipment and vehicles, as well as buildings and any exposed civilians or Firefighters.

Steam leak inside building Steam incidents inside a building supplied by Con Edison steam range from minor to major. A minor incident, such as a leaking radiator, can be treated as any other steam emergency. A burst high-pressure pipe can be an entirely different matter. Inside supplied buildings, steam temperatures can be as high 350 degrees with pressures reaching 170 psi. A damaged steam riser quickly can fill a room with super-heated steam and in an enclosed area, oxygen may be displaced by the steam, creating an asphyxiation hazard.

Occupants of the building in the vicinity of a burst high-pressure steam pipe in an enclosed space might not have the opportunity to escape and rapidly could become fatalities. Additionally, the first-responding units may not be able to make entry into the affected room or area until the steam is shut off and the area vented.

General tactical considerations, HELB tactics Generating plant leak--Never enter a Con Edison plant without an escort. Instead, respond to the designated muster site outside the plant, per AUC 338, Addendum 1.

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Photo #6--Steam room in a building supplied by Con Ed.

• Look for and contact the Con Edison White Hat. He will provide information on the emergency, give you an escort if entry is necessary and alert you to the problems and hazards inside the plant, as well as explain Con Ed’s efforts to mitigate the emergency.

• Request an accountability report from the White Hat regarding his personnel. He will know who was in the plant when the incident occurred and if they have been accounted for.

• The White Hat will remain in the lobby and assign an escort to accompany you into the plant. Move cautiously inside the plant and do not wander from your Con Edison escort. The noise of the escaping steam and the normal turmoil created by a HELB in the plant can result in disorientation to those not familiar with it, so stay close to your guide and confer with him regarding the hazards with which you are faced.

• Con Edison personnel will make needed repairs to mitigate the problem. Firefighters should limit themselves to search and rescue.

Steam leak in the street--Never rush into a HELB steam scenario.

This is a haz-mat incident and the hazards can change from moment to moment. So, how do you respond to these incidents?

• Approach outdoor incidents from upwind and stay clear of the vapor plume. Stage units and personnel in an area where they will not become contaminated by asbestos and where communication is possible.

• Position apparatus and set staging area upwind, outside of the vapor plume and far enough away to allow voice and radio communications.

• Look for and work with the Con Edison White Hat. This person is the Con Edison incident commander and will be your source of information at these incidents.

• Closely supervise personnel to avoid injury and asbestos contamination. The high temperature of the vapor plume is debilitating and can be deadly.

• Search for and remove victims if it is safe to do so.

• Limit the number of Firefighters exposed and ensure that all exposed personnel wear full bunker gear and SCBA when operating in and around the escaping steam.

• Isolate exposed Firefighters, civilians and equipment in order to limit the spread of asbestos contamination.

• Prevent civilians from exiting buildings into contaminated areas.

• If it is necessary to evacuate, consider evacuating from the rear or side of buildings to avoid contamination.

• Shut building ventilation systems and close windows to prevent the spread of steam and asbestos to the inside of nearby buildings.

• Prepare for decontamination of civilians, Firefighters’ bunker gear, tools and equipment and vehicles. This is a non-emergency decon, but isolation of exposed civilians and personnel will prevent cross-contamination.

• Decontaminated apparatus, tools and bunker gear may not be returned for several days.

• Anyone and anything exposed--including buildings--will have to

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Photos #7 and #8--Inside service valve with warning signs.

be decontaminated if asbestos is present in the plume.

HELB in a steam-supplied building--Supplied buildings will have a steam control room. Inside will be a confusing series of valves and piping.

• Never randomly shut valves. Some valves are critical for condensate removal. Shutting the wrong valve could damage the system, creating other hazardous conditions.

• The inside service valve will be labeled and sealed. It is permissible to shut this valve, if necessary. It would be preferred, however, if Firefighters wait for Con Ed steam personnel to shut the valve. In any case, always notify Con Ed personnel of any valves shut and never open a valve once shut.

It is not just Con Edison steam Firefighters can find privately owned “district steam systems” at locations throughout the City. Universities, hospitals and other large developments--such as Starrett City and the Bay View Projects in Brooklyn, as well as New York University in Manhattan--have their own central steam boiler plants and distribute the steam to the buildings in their respective complexes.

Although these “district steam systems” are not part of the Con Ed system, the hazards remain the same. At these locations, Firefighters should operate as they would at an incident involving Con Edison steam, but seek out and employ the expertise of the local plant manager.

General safety precautions and considerations • Transmit the appropriate radio code (10-40-4) with an explanation of conditions.

• Because of the potential for asbestos release, all high-pressure steam incidents are likely to be haz-mat incidents. Transmit the appropriate 10-80 code.

• Request response as needed from Con Edison, NYPD for crowd control, EMS as needed for victims and other City agency personnel.

• Do not approach a high-energy line break.

• Consider a HELB to be a haz-mat incident until the debris is tested and proved to be free of asbestos.

• Prior to its regulation, asbestos was the insulation of choice for steam pipes. While some of it has been removed, much of it still exists on steam pipes today. If a steam pipe bursts in the street, a building or a power plant, there is a very real possibility that the pipe insulation contains asbestos.

• When operating in the vicinity of a HELB, always wear SCBA until air monitoring is completed.

A HELB in the street might adversely impact the buried elecMembers are urged to review the following: • All Units Circular (AUC) 338, Addendum 1.

• “Lexington Avenue Steam Pipe Explosion,” by Deputy Chief Robert J. Boyce, Jr., on page 2 of this issue of WNYF.

WNYF 1st/2008

tric and gas infrastructure, creating a gas leak or electrical hazard.

• If you suspect involvement of one of these other utilities, request the response of the affected utility in addition to requesting Con Edison steam’s response.

• Do not shut a high-pressure steam valve other than the “inside service valve.” If possible, wait for Con Ed steam personnel to arrive and let them shut valves as required.

• Do not open any high-pressure steam valves that you have shut.

• Notify Con Ed steam personnel of all valves that you have shut.

• Remember, high-pressure steam is invisible until it cools and condenses. A hook, broom or stick held in front of you as you move through a steam environment in a generating plant may be hit by the invisible high-pressure steam leak, warning you of its location.

• Except to save life, keep well back from a HELB in the street.

Scalding slugs of water and debris can be projected well beyond the vapor cloud and getting too close to the break may result in serious burns.

• It may take some time to shut valves to isolate the leaking section of steam piping.

Isolating a burst steam pipe in the street can take Con Ed as long as three hours, depending on the number of valves that must be shut to isolate the leaking section of pipe. It can take up to one hour to isolate a HELB in a building and in the generating plant.

• Exercise caution when operating a hose stream in buildings supplied with high-pressure steam. Directing a hose stream onto a high-pressure steam riser exposed by overhaul or some other structural damage can result in a ruptured pipe and steam release.

Con Edison currently conducts steam training for the FDNY in a number of venues. New Probies, Lieutenants, Captains and Chiefs receive a class on steam and the other Con Edison utilities.

Additionally, drills are conducted with units in areas that respond to steam incidents. The training, as well as this and other WNYF articles, are part of the Partnership in Safety FDNY has forged together with Consolidated Edison. This partnership has resulted in greater safety for Firefighters, Con Edison workers and the people they both serve.

About the Author...

Battalion Chief Frank C. Montagna is a 37-year veteran of the FDNY, the past 21 years of which have been as a Chief Officer. He is assigned to Battalion 58. Currently, he is working in the Bureau of Training, where he is responsible for curriculum development. He holds a degree in Fire Science from John Jay College, where he has taught fire science courses. He is a member of the editorial advisory board of Fire Engineering and has published articles in that publication and contributes frequently to WNYF. He is the author of Responding to “Routine” Emergencies.

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Victim Tracking-Points to Consider During Multiple-Casualty Incidents

by Deputy Chief Daniel Donoghue t is just past 0300 hours and begins to coordinate rescue and removal operations. Within on a busy, late-summer minutes, two separate 10-45s are transmitted from units searching night tour.

The the top floor. Members also are removing frightened occupants Department radio is silent from the fire escapes via portable and tower ladders. Several of as the Battalion Firefighter these occupants require medical attention for various reasons, logs the last run. Then, the including smoke inhalation, lacerations and minor burns. silence is broken by the The Division rolls in as the 10-45s are transmitted. The tone alert. Phone alarm is Deputy Chief notices several people receiving treatment from the heard as the companies Medical Branch as he approaches the building. As the Chiefs conThe March 2007 fire at Woodycrest ready themselves for fer at the Command Post, a third 10-45 is transmitted from the top Avenue, the Bronx, killed nine children and another run. En route, the floor. The Division transmits a third alarm. one adult. dispatcher notifies the Two hand-lines now are advancing up the interior stairs, while Battalion that due to numerous calls, four engines, two trucks, res- two additional hand-lines are being stretched via the front fire cue and squad have been assigned. The dispatcher also notifies the escape. Members continue to operate on the upper floors without responding units of reports of people trapped on the upper floors. a hand-line. Although all units are heavily engaged, it is extremeUnits knew they were going to work. ly important for the Incident Commander (IC) to get an accurate The first-arriving engine immediately transmits a 10-75 for a account of the number and severity of injuries reported. The fire in a fully occupied, six-story multiple dwelling. Fire is report- Battalion Firefighter is instructed to confer with the Medical ed on the first and second floor with possible extension to upper Branch Director, who reports directly to the Incident Commander. floors. The front fire escape is loaded with occupants fleeing the As units slowly ascend the fire-weakened stairs to the upper building as the engine company members stretch their line to the floors with their line, a fourth and fifth 10-45 are transmitted to the front door. The Battalion arrives and conducts a size-up. This size- Command Post by units searching the fourth and fifth floors. The up reveals the following information: victim/patient count is mounting quickly. The IC notifies the EMS • The fire building is a six-story new law tenement, measuring 40 Tracking Officer to verify that all the 10-45 victims have been by 80 feet, with four apartments per floor and storefront occu- accounted for and removed to area hospitals. The identification of pancies on the first floor. Front and rear fire escapes are present. these hospitals also must be obtained.

Both are crowded with occupants. A single interior stairwell proA fourth alarm is transmitted as the Command Chief (formervides access from the first floor to the roof bulkhead. • Fire is roaring out the roof bulkhead and stairwell shaft windows on several floors on the exposure #4 side of the building.

The stairwell appears to be fully involved from the first floor to the roof. • Units are reporting stairwell tread and half-landing failure of the interior stairs.

Stretching lines up these stairs would be difficult and time-consuming.

Companies would be required to operate in an extremely precarious position on the top floors without the immediate protection of a hand-line.

The Battalion now has several emergency situations that require immediate action. One major concern is obvious--the safe removal of the occupants. Tenants continue to flood the fire escapes. Many of these civilians are having difficulty navigating the steps in the early-morning darkness. The Battalion Chief correctly realizes this job likely will result in numerous injuries.

The Staten Island Ferry crash of October 2003 resulted in 11 fatalities and 72 injured passengers, 42 of The Chief transmits a second alarm whom were transported to hospitals. MCIs are not always fire-related.

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photo by FDNY Photo Unit

photo by FDNY Manhattan Dispatcher Chris Creighton

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The MERV (left), Respiratory truck (middle) and LSU (right) can prove very useful at MCIs (mass-casualty incidents). photos by Battalion Chief John A. Calderone

ly called City-Wide Tour Commander) arrives. Units continue to operate for two more hours until the fire is declared under control.

The Medical Branch reports a total patient count of 47 injured (including 27 Firefighters), with 41 people transported to hospitals.

How would you, as the Incident Commander or the EMS Tracking Officer, handle this number of injured? This assignment proved difficult at a Manhattan four-alarm fire that mirrored the story above. Manhattan and Bronx units did an exceptional job under extremely difficult conditions. The many victims/patients were removed quickly and treated by the Medical Branch. There is no doubt that lives were saved as the direct result of the aggressive actions of the Firefighters and skilled medical care rendered

by EMS personnel.

However, patient tracking did not go so smoothly (unlike in the story above). Due to the large amount of fire on arrival, there weren’t any members available to act as a victim coordinator. The Division assigned an Engine (arriving on the second alarm as the satellite unit) as the victim-tracking unit. The Engine faced an uphill battle. Numerous victims already had been transported; several without recorded names and/or apartment numbers. This information void delayed the completion of secondary searches.

Eventually, all patients were accounted for and properly recorded.

FDNY’s responsibilities at multiple-casualty incidents (MCI) The FDNY is responsible for incident scene safety and coordination of pre-hospital resources at fires, as well as numerous other kinds of emergencies. The Fire Department Incident Commander will have several tools at his/her disposal to assist with victim/patient tracking. At multiple-casualty incidents or MCIs (the term used for incidents producing five or more patients), the IC should assign a designee to assist the Medical Branch in victim tracking as early as possible. The following resources will be available: • A Medical Branch “Tracking Officer,” assigned by an EMS Operations Officer, to track all patients treated and/or transported to a hospital.

• Patient Tracking Form--A three-part form used by the Tracking Officer to record appropriate information for each patient at an incident. Triage tags also are used to determine total patient count. A Patient Tracking Form summary will be available to the Incident Commander, or designee, after the event is concluded.

• An EMS Conditions Officer may be sent to area hospitals to assist in victim/patient identification. This Officer, if available, can be dispatched via the EMS Operations Officer.

• The Bureau of Fire Investigation will assist in the identification of severely injured fire victims if required.

Victim coordinator responsibilities The victim coordinator is designated by the Incident Commander to assist with the proper documentation of injured members and civilians. Responsibilities include the following:

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• Establish contact with the EMS Operations and Tracking Officers, if designated. EMS supervisors monitor handie-talkie channel 1 (primary tactical).

• Confer with Incident Commander regarding establishment of a secondary handie-talkie channel to be used exclusively for victim tracking. The CFR-D handie-talkie channel 10 can be used for this purpose.

• Ensure that ambulances have access to and from the emergency scene. Consult with the Medical Branch if a triage area is required.

• Establish a victim log. This log should include basic information, including the victim’s name, address, sex, age and injury.

For seriously injured victims, some of this information may not be available immediately. This log shall be in addition to the EMS Patient Tracking Form.

• Ensure that injured FDNY members receive proper medical care.

A separate list of injured members shall be included in the victim log. Include name, age, rank, unit (assigned and working, if detailed) and injury.

• Establish contact with units involved in the removal of severely injured or deceased victims (10-45s). This is especially important for incidents producing several unconscious/deceased victims. These units may provide additional information, including the victim’s location.

• Update the Incident Commander periodically. This update should include the total number of injuries and transports.

Civilian and FDNY numbers should remain separate.

• Follow up with the Tracking Officer regarding victims transported to the hospital. Additional information may become available.

• Submit the log to the Incident Commander upon completion of operations. A copy of the Patient Tracking Form shall be obtained from the Medical Branch and attached to the log.

The Victim Coordinator also should be aware of three different types of vehicles the Medical Branch may have on the scene at MCIs. These vehicles may provide an ideal location to compile victim information. The Major Emergency Response Vehicle (MERV) is a specially configured patient care vehicle that can be used to treat and transport numerous patients simultaneously. The Mobile Respiratory Treatment Unit is a vehicle that can provide oxygen therapy for up to 30 patients. This vehicle also can transport up to 28 seated patients. The Logistical Support Unit (LSU) is the initial EMS resource dispatched to MCIs. One is located in each borough. The LSU carries a large supply of backboards, bandages/dressings, splints, etc.

Lessons learned/reinforced • At operations with numerous serious injuries, the sooner a Victim Coordinator is designated, the better. This is especially true at operations involving multiple 10-45-2s removed from different locations by different units. There may be confusion regarding who was removed from where and by whom and to what hospital they were transported. The IC may be too involved

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For additional and detailed information, members are urged to review EMSC OGP, 106-20.

with fire operations to personally follow up on victim removal.

• Units involved in removing unconscious victims should ensure that the Incident Commander is aware of the location from which the victims were removed. This information may be given to the Victim Coordinator or EMS Tracking Officer for transmittal to the IC. Do not “drop and go.” Members transporting the victim to EMS must make EMS personnel aware of all information they have regarding the victim (even if it is only the location where the victim was found).

• The Victim Coordinator may be a Battalion Chief, EMS Chief, a company Officer or a Firefighter. The choice may well depend on who is on-scene and available. Anticipate this need. Specialcall an additional Battalion Chief or engine company when numerous victims are likely.

• The Bureau of Fire Investigation can provide assistance with the identification of seriously injured or deceased victims. Ensure that all information on victims is safeguarded.

• Completion of secondary searches will be delayed until all victims are properly identified and accounted for. This is especially Boyce, continued from page 4

160) are scheduled to be put in service in the future. These units only transport the apparatus. Their members may assist in setting up and operating the unit (manpower). A Hazardous Materials Technician Unit is required to operate these units.

When units operate at an asbestos-contaminated site, they should take the following necessary actions to prevent further exposure: 1. Wet down contaminated bunker gear and tools.

2. Remain within the Contamination Reduction Zone (warm zone) to prevent additional contamination of areas or crosscontamination of any non-affected area.

3. Do not eat, drink or smoke before being deconned.

4. If the necessary Decon Support Unit forms are available, start filling them out.

5. Only asbestos-contaminated bunker coats and pants should need off-site deconning. Hard items, such as helmets, boots and most tools, are deconned at the scene and placed back in service immediately. Members who have their second set of bunker gear in quarters should be back in service rather quickly. For members whose second set of bunker gear is not available, the SOC Decon Support Unit will arrange loaner gear. For replacement of Personal Safety Systems (PSS), see Training Bulletin, Rope 4, section 6, or follow directions at the scene.

6. Wet bunker gear (after decon) should be placed inside a plastic decon bag, sealed with tape and placed inside a second clear decon bag with a completed FDNY decontamination property tag placed between the two bags, so that the tag can be read through the second bag. Bag only the gear and equipment that need special off-site cleaning.

7. Segregate contaminated bunker gear and bag individually by member and tools separately by unit. Maintain unit cohesiveness. Keeping bunker gear and unit equipment separate by unit assists in putting units back in service in a more timely manner.

Putting several units’ gear in one large pile leads to separation problems and makes the process more time-consuming.

8. Masks, handie-talkies, Personal Safety Systems, special equipment, etc., deconned off-site, will be sent to the appropriate FDNY unit for evaluation prior to these items being returned to service.

9. Any compromised or questionable bunker gear will be sent to the Quartermaster for evaluation prior to these items being returned from SOC.

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true for large multiple dwellings with numerous apartments affected by smoke and/or fire.

• Remember that MCIs are not always fire-related. Motor vehicle accidents, hazardous-material incidents, building collapses and other emergencies have the capability of producing a large number of casualties.

Early identification of a potential MCI and quick implementation of the victim coordinator position will greatly assist the Incident Commander during these types of operations. The above information will assist the unit or member assigned this duty to carry out the responsibilities effectively.

The author thanks EMS Division Chiefs Mark Steffens and James Booth for their assistance with this article.

About the Author...

Deputy Chief Daniel Donoghue is a 23-year veteran of the FDNY. He is assigned to the 3rd Division. He holds a degree in nursing and currently is pursuing a BA degree in Fire and Emergency Management at John Jay College.

This is his second article for WNYF.

Members are urged to review the following references: • Fire Tactics and Procedures, Emergency Response Plan, Addendum 3, January 3, 2007, and Addendum 4A, May 16, 2006.

• “Steam on Tap,” by Firemen Peter R. Corcoran and Robert A. McDermott, in the October 1947 issue of WNYF.

10. Staging area must be placed away from the “fall-out zone.”

• We would be remiss if we didn’t address the use of Fire Department resources for the later decontamination of buildings in the affected area. FDNY deconned the buildings to get this area of the City back up and running as quickly as possible. The decontamination FDNY provided via tower ladder streams was done with all safety concerns addressed and under the auspices of our Hazardous Materials Division and Safety Command, in addition to the New York City Department of Environmental Protection and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

The professional relationship between the private company-Consolidated Edison--and FDNY has been expanding and improving during the past decade. Con Ed has helped FDNY assist the citizens and visitors of New York in numerous ways. They have built Division Command Post boards. The utility graciously opens its Learning Center for FDNY use for various training courses.

Con Ed offers their vacuum trucks to remove debris at trench rescue operations, etc. They have more than cooperated in training initiatives, including but not limited to, our DVD 10-41 Gas Emergencies.

The author thanks Battalion Chief Robert Strakosch, Haz-Mat Battalion, and FF Thomas Ciangiola, SOC Decon Unit, for their technical contributions to this article.

About the Author…

Deputy Chief Robert J. Boyce, Jr., is a 25-year veteran of the FDNY. Currently, he is assigned to Division 11, covering. Prior assignments include Engine 230, Ladder 102, Ladder 12, Ladder 111 and Battalion 54. In 2002-2003, he was the Liaison to the NYPD and Deputy Commissioner at the NYC OEM. He was a member of the first West Point Counterterrorism Program class and is a graduate of the FDNY Officers Management Institute. This is his first article for WNYF.

WNYF 1st/2008

UHF Radios in the Division and Battalion Vehicle Consoles

by Deputy Chiefs Peter J. Hart and John Mooney ll Division and Battalion vehicles have UHF radios installed in their center consoles. These radios can be used to monitor handie-talkie (HT) transmissions while responding to an incident. The 13 selected Battalion vehicles that have repeaters linked to their UHF radios also can monitor HT transmissions while en route to an incident. Inside these cross-band repeaters are a VHF radio and a UHF radio, linked together by a repeater. Members can use just the UHF radio by depressing the power on button and then the mode switch to select the desired channel. Don’t depress the VRS button. Now you can communicate using the car UHF radio through its white mic on the side of the console. Communications Manual, chapter 12, section 8.7, provides a complete listing of the channels found in the UHF car radio.

A Battalion--whether repeater-equipped or not--and Divisions, may keep the power to the repeater or UHF console radio on at all times. Those with repeaters need to ensure that the VRS button is not depressed until the Battalion decides to use the repeater. To monitor tactical transmissions, a Battalion or Division can switch the UHF car radio to tactical channel one (1). The vehicle’s antenna is on top of the car, which increases the radio’s ability to pick up tactical transmissions from a great distance.

The antenna of a handie-talkie at the Chief’s side does not have the same advantage as the car’s roofmounted antenna. The latter should be used only to monitor tactical channel transmissions. If a Chief Officer was to respond back to a tactical transmission using the vehicle UHF radio, the signal from the car at 40 watts might interfere with operations other than the one to which the Battalion or Division is responding. Transmitting on a tactiRadio console as seen in a cal channel of the vehicle UHF radio Division car. The top radio is should be done only in an extreme the mobile VHF radio, used to emergency. communicate with borough disChiefs other than first-due patchers. The middle radio is the UHF radio and the bottom responding to operations where a comradio is the 800-mhz radio. mand channel has been established or Battalions and Divisions should is in the process of being established label the radios found on the may opt to monitor the command vehicle’s console. channel by having Non-Repeater-Equipped Battalions the vehicle UHF radio placed on the selected command channel. In this situation, the responding Chief may communicate on the command channel prior to 40 Wa arrival, since the tts UH command channel FF rom is dedicated to that Ca r incident and no one else should be using it.

photo/artwork by Deputy Chief Peter Hart

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WNYF 1st/2008

Members are urged to review the following: • “Using the FDNY Post Radios,” by then-Battalion Chief Peter J. Hart, in the 1st/2007 issue of WNYF. • “FDNY Vehicle Repeater Systems,” by Deputy Chiefs Peter J. Hart and John Mooney, in the 4th/2007 issue of WNYF. • Communications Manual, chapter 12.

If a non-repeater-equipped Battalion had a fire in a high-rise building, they could establish a command channel using the vehicle’s UHF radio and their Post radio. The dispatcher should be notified that a command channel will be used. The Battalion Chief’s Post radio will be taken to the upper floors by the seconddue engine Officer. The Battalion Firefighter remains in the car and will use the vehicle’s UHF radio to communicate on the command channel with the Company Officer who has the Post radio.

Both the vehicle UHF radio and the Post radio must be on the same command channel. Any messages to the Incident Commander (IC) from the company Officer with the Post radio on the Command Channel will be relayed to the IC by the Battalion Firefighter via his/her handie-talkie on the tactical channel. Once a second Battalion arrives and leaves their Post radio in the Lobby Command Post (LCP), “Post radio to Post radio” communications can be conducted between the LCP and the Operations Post. As the incident progresses, other Posts established will be equipped with Post radios and should allow “Post radio to Post radio” communications on the command channel.

FDNY members must be very familiar with these radios. They are versatile communications tools that can increase situational awareness for all responding Chiefs, which, in turn, will lead to increased safety and efficiency at all operations.

About the Authors...

Deputy Chief Peter J. Hart (top) is a 29-year veteran of the FDNY. He is assigned to Operations, Research and Development. As a Firefighter, he served with Engine 83 and Ladders 29 and 155.

He was a Lieutenant in Engine 28, the Captain of Engine 302 and a Battalion Chief and Commander of the 7th Battalion. He holds a BS degree in Criminal Justice from the New York Institute of Technology. While a Captain, he taught the Back to Basics Program. After 9/11, as part of the McKinsey Group, he was detailed to the High-Rise Communications project, which developed the Post radio. He was a member of the first West Point Terrorism class and teaches several classes for the Chiefs Command Course at the Fire Academy.

He is a frequent contributor to WNYF. Deputy Chief John Mooney (bottom) is a 29-year veteran of the FDNY. He is assigned to Division 1, but is detailed to the Bureau of Training. As a Firefighter, he served in Engine 221 and Ladder 102. He was a Lieutenant in Engine 84, the Captain of Ladder 103 and a Battalion Chief in Battalion 8. He holds a BS degree in Marketing from St. John’s University. He is a graduate of both MEPP and Fire Officers Management Institute (FOMI), has produced many tabletop, functional and full-scale exercises since 9/11 and is an instructor for the Chiefs Command Course at the Fire Academy. This is his second article for WNYF.

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FDNY IMT Deployment to Idaho The First Since Hurricane Katrina and the First to Battle Wildfires

by Deputy Chief Robert Maynes

n late August of 2007, the nation was in the middle of an exceptionally demanding wildland fire season. The season started in late winter in the southern United States, with historic fire activity, especially in Georgia and Florida. The season progressed and by August, the northern Rockies and Pacific Northwest were fully engaged in extensive operations.

On a single day, the national system was unable to fill almost 3000 requests for individual supervisory positions in all Incident Command System (ICS) sections. The FDNY was presented with an opportunity to garner experience as a team and pay back the national system by relieving pressure on the national system.

Additionally, it was the first time the FDNY IMT was deployed for a wildfire.

In mid-August, Joe Ferguson’s Atlanta National Incident Management Organization (NIMO) team reached out to FDNY to support Unified Command at the East Zone Complex for 14 days at a Type-One (as a general rule, requires the resources of more

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than 500 people in operations) wildland fire. Assistant Chief Robert Sweeney approached Chief of Department Salvatore J. Cassano and Chief of Operations Patrick McNally and was granted approval to deploy the FDNY IMT on August 20, 2007, to the East Zone Complex, based near McCall, Idaho.

For the week preceding the deployment of the FDNY IMT, Chiefs Sweeney and Robert Maynes and EMT Steve Perrone maintained contact with the NIMO team in McCall, Idaho. The decision was made to deploy 30 individuals to fill required positions. For the necessary specific positions that FDNY could not fill, an order was placed through the national ordering system (ROSS). One of these positions, Supply Unit Leader, was filled by FF Daniel Frazee of the Phoenix Fire Department. FF Frazee is a member of Dan Oltrogge’s Southwest Type-One IMT, which was the first IMT to respond to the World Trade Center in 2001. FF Frazee responded to Katrina on a national request to assist the FDNY IMT in 2005.

Members of the FDNY IMT, who were deployed to Idaho in August 2007, to help protect homes, structures and infrastructure from the wildfires. A listing of all FDNY members who participated can be found on page 13.

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Additional assignment positions in all sections were filled through ROSS throughout the two-week deployment. The Unified Command Team--consisting of 54 individuals--supported 800 responders for the 14-day period. FDNY and NIMO transferred command on September 5, 2007, to Paul Broyle’s Northern Rockies Type-One IMT. On arrival, the FDNY IMT started a transition period with the Georgia State Forest Commission Type-Two (depending on complexity, generally requires a minimum of 250 individuals assigned to operations) team. During the shadow period, the FDNY individuals assisted their counterparts conducting assignments. At the start of the transition period, the Georgia individual retained authority.

At the start of the next operational period, the FDNY individuals assumed authority for their positions. An ideal transition would include two operational periods with the incoming team shadowing the outgoing team for the first period and switching positions for the second period. At East Zone, the transition was limited to one day because of travel logistics for the Georgia team. Starting on August 22, 2007, the FDNY IMT, in Unified Command with NIMO, assumed command of the East Zone Complex.

The primary objective for the FDNY IMT was to protect values at risk--defined as homes, structures and infrastructure. The majority of the effort for the two weeks was not to suppress, but to control and direct the large wildland fires. The fires were permitted to advance, with tactics focused on retarding a large, unchecked fire and protecting the towns of Warren, Secesh, Burgdorf and the ranches located in the South Fork Valley. (See map on page 17.)

The operational period was established as 24 hours, starting at 0800 hours. At the start of each operational period, the daily operations briefing was conducted. Due to the large area, initially, three briefings were required. One briefing was conducted at the Base Camp, south of McCall; a second briefing was conducted for Branch-1 at the Spike Camp in Secesh; and the third, which was condensed to the Base Camp after one week, was conducted at Branch-2 at the Krassel U.S. Forest Service Ranger Station.

The distance from Base Camp to the two Spike Camps dictated the multiple operations briefings. It is a one-hour drive from Base Camp to the Secesh Spike Camp and even more distant from Base Camp to Krassel Spike Camp. To drive the perimeter of the East Zone required an eight-hour drive and the expectation of at least one flat tire. The Logistics personnel incurred a four-hour turnaround to deliver meals and supplies to Branch-1 and a sixhour turnaround to Branch-2, which did not include loading and unloading time.

At incidents mandating multiple operations periods, advanced planning is required. The planning process is the component of ICS that continuously plans for the next operations period. The planning process is a disciplined procedure, culminating in a written Incident Action Plan (IAP). The IAP is produced prior to the start of all operational periods and is completed for each operational period. This planning cycle is completed twice a day for 12-hour operational periods. The planning cycle requires scheduled meetings, information-sharing and decision-making. The operations briefing based on the IAP is the final step in the cycle. It is a formal, disciplined briefing, approximately 30 minutes in duration and conducted prior to sending the tactical resources to their assignments.

At these briefings, the Command and General staff and relevant unit leaders present the objectives, situation analysis and pertinent information and detail the operations organization, including individual work assignments. The FDNY IMT individuals were integral participants in both the Base and Spike Camp briefings.

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Command and General Staff All Operations Command Staff Supervisors receive an Incident Commander (ICT) Ferguson, NIMO (ICT-1) Incident Action Plan. The Joseph Deputy IC Robert Sweeney, FDNY (ICT-2) IAP contains comprehen- Robert Maynes, FDNY (ICT-2 trainee) sive information, including: Public Information Officer (IFO) Robin Cole, NIMO • Incident objectives Assistants Sean Johnson, FDNY (IFO-1 trainee) • Safety message Paul Iannizzotto, FDNY (IFO-2 trainee) • IMT organization Safety Officer (SOF) • Division or Group Gene Madden, NIMO (SOF-1) Assistant John Gulotta, FDNY (SOF-2) assignments Liaison Officer (LOF) • Medical plan Thomas Coleman, FDNY (LOF) • Communication plan General Staff • Weather forecast Operations Section Chief (OSC) • Map of the incident George Custer, NIMO (OSC-1) • Any additional pertinent Deputies Robert Maynes, FDNY (OSC-2) information Brian O’Boyle, FDNY (OSC-2 trainee) An Incident Action Planning Section Chief (PSC) Swilling, NIMO (PSC-1) Plan contains ICS form- Darryl John Belnavis, FDNY (PSC-2) 204s. ICS 204 is an indi- Logistics Section Chief (LSC) vidual work assignment Sally Browning, NIMO (PSC-1) document for each Deputy Paul Tauber, FDNY (LSC-2) Section Chief (FSC) Division or Group. Finance James Meredith, NIMO (FSC-1) (Groups and Divisions are Deputy James Kane, FDNY (FSC-2) designated as Sectors in Other FDNY IMT Members New York City under Deputy Chief John Sudnik CIMS.) A model 204 con- Captain Daniel Sheridan tains all the information a Battalion Chief Brian Foley Division or Group Lieutenant Nicholas D’Alessandro Robert Schuller Supervisor requires to per- FF EMS Deputy Chief Jay Swithers form the assignment. The Battalion Chief Gregory Bierster 204 includes: Battalion Chief Michael Meyers Battalion Chief Gary Esposito • Work assignment PC Technician Pete Rzucidlo • Supervisors’ names FF Daniel Youngson • Resources assigned Captain James Rallis Lieutenant Thomas Morgan • Special instructions • Communications channels Lieutenant Chris Kendall Fire Alarm Dispatcher Dan Nastro • Drop off/pick-up times EMS Captain Wayne Baskin For 14 days, the FDNY Captain Stephen Marsar IMT members produced the Lieutenant Joseph Cavanaugh IAP, implemented the planning process and conducted required meetings and briefings under Members are urged to review the following WNYF articles: • “Managing a Catastrophic Urban Disaster (Part I), The Use of Geographic Information and Global Positioning Systems,” by then-Battalion Chief Joseph W. Pfeifer, in the 1st/2002 issue.

• “Managing a Catastrophic Urban Disaster (Part II), The Planning Section of the Incident Command System for the WTC,” by Deputy Assistant Chief of Operations Joseph W. Pfeifer, in the 2nd/2002 issue.

• “FDNY/United States Navy Participate in War Gaming,” by Assistant Chief Michael Weinlein, in the 3rd/2002 issue.

• “Incident Management--A Key Component of the ICS,” by Battalion Chief Andrew Richter, in the 3rd/2002 issue.

• “The McKinsey Report, Implementing Preparedness for the Future,” by Deputy Assistant Chief of Operations Joseph W. Pfeifer, in the 1st/2003 issue.

• “Origin and Development of FDNY Incident Management Teams--Part I,”

by Deputy Assistant Chief Ronald R. Spadafora, in the 4th/2003 issue.† • “Origin and Development of FDNY Incident Management Teams--Part II, Shadow Training,” by Deputy Assistant Chief Ronald R. Spadafora, in the 4th/2004 issue.† • “FDNY Deployment for Hurricane Katrina,” by numerous authors, in the 1st/2006 issue.

• “A Melding of Urban and Wildland Firefighting in Idaho,” by Captain Daniel P. Sheridan, on page 16 of this issue. † Some of the information in these two articles is outdated, but now has been updated with this article by Deputy Chief Robert Maynes.

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FDNY IMTs--Some Background question being asked nationally is, How did urban FDNY create an Incident Management Team capable of responding to a wildland fire in rural central Idaho? On August 22, 2007, 30 members of the FDNY Incident Management Team, in Unified Command with the Atlanta-based NIMO (National Incident Management Organization) Team, started a 15-day deployment at the East Zone Complex, centered near McCall, Idaho. The East Zone Complex consisted of four separate wildland fires in the same area, encompassing nearly 300,000 acres.

The McKinsey Report, Increasing FDNY’s Preparedness, recommended numerous actions, one of which was for FDNY to create and maintain an Incident Management Team--similar to the teams that supported FDNY at the World Trade Center--that would specialize in urban terrorism and disaster. In 2003, FDNY initiated actions to create an Incident Management Team. In September of 2005, FDNY followed through with its promise and deployed the FDNY IMT to support the New Orleans Fire Department in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. The FDNY IMT was applauded for what was described as one of the most successful operations in the hurricane-ravaged Gulf Coast.

FDNY validated that the Homeland Security grant money targeted for creating an FDNY IMT was well-invested. The FDNY IMT now is viewed as a valuable resource for national preparedness.

Starting in 2005, FDNY started to deploy IMT individuals to wildland fires with the objective of training and attaining qualifications in specific Incident Command System (ICS) positions. In June/July of 2005, 10 individuals deployed with the two Southwest Type-One IMTs to the Cave Creek fire in central Arizona. By the end of summer 2005, 22 individuals attained qualifications in a minimum of one position. Fourteen others accomplished near full qualification with the ability to successfully perform at a complex incident. The FDNY IMT responded to New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina on September 4, 2005, with 28 members and, based on their accomplishments, ignited a local and national effort to increase preparedness by establishing Incident Management Teams.

Currently, the FDNY has trained 142 individuals in some aspect of participation on the FDNY IMT. Sixty individuals served on the FDNY IMT during the six-week (three teams served two-week deployments) operation in New Orleans.

Ninety-eight individuals have achieved qualification in a minimum of one IMT position and more than 150 position qualifications have been completed.

Additionally, 10 FDNY individuals have served as rostered team members on national Type-One IMTs with three new individuals rostered for 2008 on a total of three Type-One IMTs. FDNY has been requested to roster as many as 30 individuals on six different Type-One IMTs and four different Type-Two IMTs, with a decision made to limit the number to six individuals for 2008.

The majority of the position qualifications have been accomplished at TypeOne wildland fires. Individuals have been ordered through the national ordering system to respond and operate at complex wildland fires as emergency responders, based on an agreement signed by Commissioner Scoppetta and thenSecretary of the United States Department of Agriculture Ann Veneman.

Complex wildland fires provide the opportunity for FDNY individuals to hone required skills on accepted weaknesses. FDNY is the most accomplished agency in the fire service in responding to urban fires and emergencies. The World Trade Center terrorist attack demonstrated inexperience with complex inter-agency operations that will prevail at a complex level for extended operational periods.

FDNY is accomplished at bread and butter operations, but members have limited experience in logistics, planning, finance, public information and liaisoning with outside agencies. In the event of additional terrorist attacks or disasters in New York, the skills learned at wildland fires and Katrina will be invaluable.

NIMO was created in 2006 and 2007 was the first full year of operation. In 2007, NIMO consisted of two teams; one based in Atlanta, Georgia, the second in Boise, Idaho. Both teams were employed by the United States Forest Service with anticipation of assignments generated from both the U.S. Forest Service and the Department of Homeland Security. Each team consists of a seven-person Command and General Staff. Prior to the creation of NIMO, all Incident Management Teams consisted of professionals from Federal, State and local agencies that were performing a collateral assignment.

NIMO was created to address nine key goals. The first key goal was to improve on national capacity and capability to respond to complex incidents, including terrorism and disasters, large wildland fires and events with national significance. An additional goal of NIMO is to develop a model for management of complex incidents.

Based on the success in New Orleans following the impact of Hurricane Katrina, the FDNY IMT was targeted as an outstanding resource to increase

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Assistant Chief of Operations Robert Sweeney brings members of the FDNY IMT up to speed on the day’s planned operations.

the direction of Planning Section Chief John Belnavis, Battalion 9. Additionally, nine FDNY members formed the foundation of the Logistics Section, reporting to Logistics Section Chief Paul Tauber, Battalion 50. The nine members performed the six support and service components with exemplary attitude, competence and professionalism.

Valuable training and qualification were achieved with six unit leader qualifications completed within the Logistics Section.

The Finance Section was supervised by Finance Section Chief James Kane, Battalion 49. Finance had equal success, with five members attaining three qualifications, including Chief Kane. The Command Staff was supervised for 10 days by Chief Sweeney as Deputy Incident Commander, with Chief Maynes taking responsibility for the last four days. A major accomplishment for the Command Staff was overseeing FF Sean Johnson complete the vast majority of a Type-One Public Information Officer Task book. FF Paul Iannizzotto successfully completed qualification as a Type-Two Public Information Officer. Chief Kane and FF Johnson are candidates for S-520, which is the required national course for qualification as a Type-One Command and General Staff individual. Only three years ago, attaining qualification as a Type-One qualified Section Chief or Command Staff Officer was not considered feasible for an FDNY member.

In addition to the scheduled meetings mandated by the planning process, Chief Sweeney included a full team meeting at the conclusion of dinner. The objective of this meeting was to share information, critique the day’s events and discuss any issues. The meeting was informal and infused with humor that reduced stress.

The NIMO members attended the FDNY IMT meeting whenever possible, both to serve as mentors and address issues. The majority of the team members were serving as trainees. A trainee is a member who performs the duty of a qualified individual, while being guided and instructed by a mentor who has attained the qualification.

Mentors included FDNY, NIMO and other agency person-

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WNYF 1st/2008

national capacity. The FDNY IMT is qualified as a national Type-Two Incident Management Team, with the expectation that the FDNY IMT is capable of responding to the most complex Type-One urban event; in particular, terrorism.

The FDNY IMT is recognized as a state-level Type-One Incident Management Team, based on the successful completion by 16 individuals of the complex incident management course. Based on the urban experience of FDNY and its accomplishments, the USFS, DHS and NIMO view the FDNY IMT as a national model. In 2005, Katrina put significant pressure on the first response system to support operations throughout the impacted Gulf states. At one time, 55 different IMTs were deployed in four states.

Simultaneously and luckily, the national wildland fire season was unusually slow. The national system was not prepared in September 2005 to respond to both Katrina and an average national wildland fire situation.

Nationally, experts fear that the near future will include a hurricane with significant impact similar to Katrina’s, with simultaneous complex national wildland fire. A prime example would be the disastrous fires that impacted southern California during October 2007. Simultaneous terrorist attacks could have the same impact. Forecasters are attempting to address prioritizing those incidents that will receive support.

The FDNY IMT is viewed as a critical resource for urban response to a complex incident at such a time. Currently, there are 17 Type-One IMTs and two NIMO teams capable of supporting the largest and most complex incidents. All 17 cannot be deployed simultaneously because a rotation of relief and response is essential. If the FDNY IMT is prepared to respond to a Type-One assignment--as it did for New Orleans--national capacity is increased. If other urban regions follow the FDNY model and establish Type-One, -Two and -Three IMTs capable of national response, national capacity for simultaneous incidents is improved significantly. A Type-Three incident is considered complex and the regional team has the ability to manage it. Type-Three teams are staffed locally and generally do not respond on The above artwork says it all--a reinforced friendship and respect for a national rotation. both groups of Firefighters.

The Atlanta-based NIMO team, with Incident Commander Joe Ferguson, accepted the assignment of maintaining and improving the nel. Being a trainee is similar to the requirements of a probaFDNY IMT’s ability to respond to complex incidents. Such preparedness is tionary Officer. essential for protection of New York City and other urban cities nationally.

Collectively, the FDNY IMT shared information, intelliThe Operations Section Chief on the Atlanta NIMO team is George Custer. gence and situation analysis, driving the planning process and He was the Incident Commander of the national Type-One Incident Management Team assigned to Louis Armstrong Airport immediately fol- producing the Incident Action Plan, which provided tactical lowing Katrina’s impact. IC Custer’s team successfully accepted the chaos direction to the operations resources in the field. For 14 days, of thousands of Katrina victims being delivered to the airport without a plan FDNY members successfully managed a complex wildland or support. The team successfully reduced the chaos, provided medical fire and supported all requirements of the operating resources treatment, transport and essentials for two weeks, which resulted in saving with an outstanding evaluation and numerous accolades. hundreds of human lives.

Invaluable trust and experience were earned, not only from the Additionally, IC Custer provided the initial support to the FDNY IMT Firefighters in the field, but also by top-level managers and on its arrival on September 4, 2005. Deputy Incident Commander Edward decision-makers in Washington.

Kilduff and Operations Section Chief Robert Maynes contacted IC Custer More importantly, members of the FDNY IMT performed on the team’s arrival. The Southern Team provided the initial meals, water and provisions to the FDNY IMT and the first 500 responders. The as a team in an environment foreign to their comfort zone. The Southern Team continued to support FDNY for the first few days of deploy- value of the team-building product earned at East Zone cannot ment as the Base Camp grew to 1400 people. Due to the mutual support and be minimized. The FDNY IMT--as individuals and as a team-successful operations, a positive relationship was developed between the assessed personal weaknesses and deficiencies, addressed Southern Team and FDNY. Five of the seven NIMO members were present them and transformed them into strengths and competencies. in New Orleans at the time of the concurrent deployments.

In the event of another World Trade Center- or Katrina-categoStarting in the fall of 2006, NIMO conducted a situation analysis of the FDNY IMT. The accurate conclusion was that FDNY had the ability to ry disaster in or outside New York, FDNY has achieved deploy a team consisting of professional and experienced members with an increased preparedness. The FDNY IMT will continue to build exemplary can-do attitude. Due to the aggressive training assignments with depth in all positions and improve its competency, experience 17 existing IMTs, the FDNY IMT was rated strongest in logistics and strong and professionalism. in planning, finance and the Command Staff. In Operations, the FDNY IMT had resources with outstanding ability to handle urban incidents, with the About the Author...

Operations Section having limited experience with planning for incidents Deputy Chief Robert Maynes is a 25-year vetremaining complex for numerous operational periods. The FDNY IMT was eran of the FDNY. He is assigned to Division inexperienced in performing these functions together as a team.

In the event of a deployment, experience as a team, supporting Type- 13. He holds a BA degree from Stony Brook One or Type-Two incidents, is critical. Other than Katrina, the individual University. He serves as the IMT Operations members attained their experience separately with 14 different IMTs nation- Section Chief, Deputy Incident Commander, ally. In order to maintain its skill sets, the FDNY IMT needs an opportuni- Training Coordinator and liaison to Federal ty to operate as a team at a complex operation for extended operational peri- and State agencies. This is his second article ods at least once annually. The only place to achieve this experience as a full for WNYF. team--without a national disaster--was at a complex wildland fire.

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A Melding of Urban and Wildland Firefighting in Idaho

by Captain Daniel P. Sheridan

aptain Daniel Sheridan received a call from FDNY Operations that the FDNY was deploying the Incident Management Team. Initially, he thought the call was for him to train for his position as a Division Supervisor. In the past three years, FDNY IMT members have been deployed with national Type-One and -Two IMTs to attain qualification in specific Incident Command positions. However, this time, FDNY members were going to be deployed as a team, the first team deployment since Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The assignment was to assist the Atlanta National Incident Management Organization (NIMO) Team at the East Zone Complex in the Payette National Forest in McCall, Idaho.

The NIMO team is a Type-One team that manages large, complex incidents, which are beyond the capabilities of the local resources and may have more than 1000 people working. The IMT responds and manages an incident by supporting the requesting agency using the principles of the Incident Command System (ICS).

The ICS is composed of five sections--Command, Operations, Planning, Finance and Logistics. The FDNY sent 30 members to assist in these areas. In some sections--such as Logistics, Finance and Planning-FDNY supervised most of the operation.

The FDNY IMT consisted of four individuals in the Operations Section. Deputy Chief Robert Maynes served as Branch Director; Deputy Chief John Sudnik as a Division Supervisor; Battalion Chief Brian O’Boyle as Deputy Operations Section Chief, Planning Operations; and Captain Sheridan as Division Supervisor--trainee. Ten days into the fire, Chief Maynes was reassigned as Deputy Incident Commander.

This was Captain Sheridan’s second deployment on a wildland fire.

In August 2006, he was sent as a Division Supervisor trainee to a wildfire in Oregon. The fire was burning close to 100,000 acres. Working with another New Yorker from New York State Forestry, their Division alone had close to 200 people working during part of the incident. Among the resources were Task Force Leaders, hand crews, engines, water tenders, bulldozers and fallers.

Conversely, at the East Zone Complex, there were about half the people in Captain Sheridan’s Division, but the challenges were the same. This

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first fire was a typical wildland fire. Tactics employed were those that are used at most fires--find some anchor points, create a box and try to keep the fire from getting out of the box.

It is true that both wildland and structural Firefighters identify themselves as Firefighters, but tactics are different. A good analogy is that structural firefighting is a 100-yard dash, while wildland firefighting is a marathon. There are many differences between the two. One major difference is that in wildland fires, so much depends on the weather. One good rain and most of the problem is solved. Wildland fires will burn until they run out of fuel. Structural fires are air-regulated. If there is a fire in a bedroom, Firefighters can close the door, thus confining the fire.

This is impossible to do in a wildland fire. The best Firefighters can do is build fire breaks and try to keep the fire contained to one area. They try to eliminate the fuel, which can be done a few ways. One way is to dig a line by hand or by using a bulldozer. Another method that is employed with a lot of caution is back-burning. This is a dangerous tactic, but the benefit is that a “black” area is created that stops the fire by eliminating the fuel.

At the East Zone Complex, Firefighters were assigned different objectives. The priorities were to protect the towns of Secesh, Warren, South Fork and Burgdorf, Idaho. One Division was named the Secesh Structure Group. The tactic employed at this fire was point protection.

There are approximately 75 homes in Secesh and it was the Firefighters’ job to keep the fire away from the structures. It was evident that the Saturday before Captain Sheridan’s group arrived, the fire came close and Firefighters had all hands working very hard to accomplish this task.

When Captain Sheridan’s group arrived on Tuesday morning, it seemed that the Firefighters had done a terrific job. All that was lost was one shed.

Captain Sheridan thought the danger had passed because most of the vegetation around the town was black, but the NIMO Team was still concerned. There was still a lot of unburned fuel surrounding the town.

Additionally, in the other Divisions, the situation was the same. The towns of Warren and South Fork were still at risk. Also at risk was a resort called Burgdorf. This was a complex of cabins, clustered around a natural hot

WNYF 1st/2008

California Wildfire Deployment spring. The town of Secesh was located in the path of the advancing fire, with Burgdorf the next area to be threatened.

Everything the Firefighters did to keep the fire out of Secesh was going to indirectly affect Burgdorf. It seemed that on three of the four sides of Secesh, the fire was contained, but there was one loose end. On the southwest side of the town, there were thousands of acres of unburned fuel. The Firefighters turned their attention toward that area, planning to employ normal wildland tactics by going directly at the fire, trying to keep it to the south.

Two crews of Hot Shots--the San Juan Hot Shots and the Breckenridge Hot Shots--were assigned to the Secesh Group. They are a Type-One crew and a part of the United States Forest Service. The plan was for the two crews to build a line on the southwest end of the town and aggressively try to keep the fire from coming through the southwest corner of the town. If the fire jumped the Wagon Wheel Road, which dissects the town of Secesh, it would be very difficult to stop it from threatening Burgdorf.

This was not an event that was going to happen in a few hours, but rather something that was going to take a few days. The fire was still a good distance away, but everyday, new maps showed how the fire had grown. The fire was chugging away at a good clip due to the low humidity and hot temperatures, along with some not-so-favorable winds.

On Thursday of the second week, Chief Maynes assigned Captain Sheridan to work in Planning Operations. Chief O’Boyle went to work in the field with Line Operations.

Friday was predicted to register a Haines Index 4 (an atmospheric index used to indicate the potential for wildfire growth by measuring the stability and dryness of the air over a fire). A Red Flag warning (weather conditions creating a critical fire hazard, which may require closing the forest to non-emergency activities in order to minimize the risk of accidental wildland fires) was issued. Additionally, dry thunderstorms--which feature lightning, but no rain--were predicted for that day. Friday passed uneventfully, but it was the day that the fire started taking a turn back to the monstrous proportions witnessed earlier, prior to FDNY’s arrival. The weekend passed without incident, but Monday presented a challenging operation.

The weather for Monday was predicted to have very low humidity and high gusty winds.

The weather man was right on the money and plays a very important role in regard to wildfires. The Incident 2 Meteorologist accurately reported a Haines Index of 5 and a Red Flag warning. The fire in Secesh now was coming down the side of the mountain toward Wagon Wheel Road. The Firefighters had prepared the road about one chain in (66 feet), meaning that they had cleared away all the light fuels, giving the fire less available fuel.

Spots are problematic with wildland fires.

They are embers that can shoot up to a few miles away. As a fire comes down the side of a mountain, it will throw embers. By removing the light fuels, the opportunity for the embers to extend is inhibited.

Monday morning, Chief O’Boyle was with Larry Sears, the Deputy Operations Chief.

They were heading toward Secesh. Chief John Gulotta, the Safety Officer, also was in Secesh that morning. Captain Sheridan was with the Operations Section Chief, George Custer, in a helicopter to get a look at the bigger picture.

The pair started out for South Fork and were

WNYF 1st/2008

n October 2007, five members of the FDNY--Battalion Chief Charles Williams, Battalion 9, Battalion Chief Daniel Martinetion, Battalion 1/Safety, Lieutenant Christopher Kendall, Battalion 13, FF James Youngson, Ladder 133, and FF Paul Cohn, Ladder 43--all of whom have Incident Management Team (IMT) training, were deployed to support operations at the California wildfires with the Southwest Type-One IMT. They worked at the Santiago Fire near San Diego.

Additionally, nine active and retired FDNY members were deployed with the American Red Cross Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART). All DART members responded on their own time, with active members using their vacations for the deployment. They responded as volunteers, worked in various capacities as needed and included: FF Richard J. Marucheau, Engine 279 FF Douglas J. Bainton, Ladder 20 FF Daniel F. Longhi, Engine 301 FF Richard C. Stewart, Ladder 20 Retired FF Mike C. Mondello, Ladder 41 (DART Vice Chairman) Retired FF John Carter, Ladder 23 Retired FF Kevin M. Shea, Haz-Mat Operations Retired SFM Kevin Wallace, BFI Retired FF Joe Riccardi, Engine 257

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amazed how much the fire had grown. The dry conditions and wind had turned this fire into a monster.

This fire now was advancing through the forest. From above, Captain Sheridan could observe how all the hard work and prep work were paying off. The fire definitely was not going to run through the town, but it was going to run somewhere. He noticed that the fire was spotting all across Wagon Wheel Road. Ironically, the lookout point had gotten a spot fire. Despite Firefighters’ best efforts, it appeared that there

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large LPG tanks, etc. The potential was there for a serious explosion if the fire reached those structures.

The Task Force members described the operation as incredible; the fire closed over the road like a freight train. They did manage to keep it away from the houses, but it was a fight. The fire literally came up to the back of the houses, but the prep work had paid off. The pumps and sprinklers in place kept the fire and heat off the houses. Witnessing this from the helicopter was an awesome site, but it appears that Firefighters on the ground witnessed something they will never forget.

Driving through the town the next day, Captain Sheridan saw what seemed like an invisible magic hand that guided the fire around the town. Looking at the map, it seemed like Secesh was a little green island in a sea of black.

Back at the Base Camp the following day, the Firefighters returning from the line looked like Firefighters examine some of the damaged and destroyed forest area from the August 2007 wildfires in Idaho. soldiers returning from some farwas no way that nature could be stopped from taking its course. Unknown away battle. Every one of them recounted the same tale of how the fire to Captain Sheridan, both Chiefs Boyle and Gulotta were witnessing this had roared over Wagon Wheel Road. event on the ground.

In the end, this fire did wind up being a typical wildland fire.

The fire had spread to the edge of the houses and was backing down the Wildland firefighting sometimes boils down to winning little battles. side of the road. There were numerous spot fires across Wagon Wheel Road. Similar to a war where soldiers will fight hard battles for a small mounStructure protection task forces were fully engaged, halting extension to the tain, wildland Firefighters will do the same to save a small town from exposed Secesh homes. Operations were complicated by the presence of being engulfed in flames. It looks like the Firefighters won the battle of Secesh. The fire eventually moved on past Secesh and continued burning up all the available fuels. It was believed the fire probably would burn until the first snow.

One of the very valuable lessons learned from wildland Firefighters is that members must listen to those who are seeing the big picture. For example, sometimes when FDNY Firefighters are moving down a hallway and think they “have it,” the Chief orders members out of the building. Firefighters begin to question the Chief’s thinking. Doesn’t he understand that Firefighters can get this, just two more rooms?

The Operations Chief and his staff get to see the bigger picture. The Operations Chief on this fire had an incredible amount of knowledge and experience. George Custer knew exactly where this fire was going and he knew exactly what was needed to keep this fire out of Secesh. Captain Sheridan had the unique opportunity of being on both sides. He was in the field and heard the guys grumbling about why certain things were being done. He also worked in the Incident Command Post.

The wildland Firefighters are excellent at being patient and using all the resources to help make decisions. They, too, have a plan, just as structural Firefighters do. It seems like it would be impossible to have a plan to control 250,000 burning acres, but they do and it works very well.

Success is all due to the Incident Command System.

About the Author...

Captain Daniel P. Sheridan is a 21-year veteran of the FDNY. He is assigned to Engine 46. He has served in Engines 58 and 259, Squad 41 and Ladders 17 and 36.

He has taught firefighting skills at the FDNY Annual Education Day. This is his second article for WNYF. Smokey indicates the fire danger for each day during the wildfire season.

When FDNY’s IMT was deployed to Idaho, the fire danger was extreme.

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WNYF 1st/2008

Clean Fire Extinguishing Agents (Halon Replacements)

by Deputy Assistant Chief Ronald R. Spadafora lean agent extinguishing systems slowly are being introduced into the New York City area. The materials listed in this article are just a few of the most popular agents on the market. The ideal clean agent alternative still has not been manufactured. It is the job of the fire protection engineer to pre-plan the life hazard, if any, fire hazard/load, area to be covered, material/equipment to be protected, container/cylinder storage space available and the compatible clean agent to be used.

It is also wise for Firefighters to inspect and become familiar with this new clean agent technology during drills and building inspection. The information and knowledge will enhance operational strategy at fires and emergencies. Alternative clean agent extinguishing systems are becoming more prevalent. It is important that FDNY members know where these systems are located, what they are protecting, how they operate and the safety precautions to be followed during fire operations and emergencies.

FDNY Firefighters in the 21st century must keep abreast of new fire extinguishing technology being introduced to replace halogenated (halon) hydrocarbons. Halons are hydrocarbons with one or more hydrogen atoms replaced by atoms from the halogen series (Group VIIA elements from the Periodic Table). The substitution of fluorine, chlorine, bromine or iodine confers non-flammability and fire-extinguishing properties to the agent.

Halons are discharged from nozzles or applicators in a gaseous form. Portable and local (agent is discharged directly onto the fire) application extinguishing systems (carbon tetrachloride) were introduced in the early 1900s and have been used extensively since that time. Total flooding (agent stored in tanks, cylinders or containers and discharged through fixed piping and nozzles/applicators into an enclosed space onto the hazard) fire extinguishing systems made their entrance in the 1960s.

Halon fire extinguishing systems are widely used for military, industrial and commercial applications for the protection of life, valuable machinery and equipment. Halons are and have been used to safeguard data centers, turbines, engine compartments, electronic equipment and flammable liquid storage tanks. They are highly effective, leave no residue, are non-electrically conductive and have a low toxicity (halon extinguishing systems generally do not release concentrations of agent high enough to cause lifethreatening effects). These agents extinguish Class A-, Class Band Class C-type fires by inhibiting the chemical chain reaction inside the flame zone.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers devised the numerical system for naming halons without the use of chemical names. The first digit of the number denotes the amount of carbon atoms in the compound molecule; the second digit represents the number of fluorine atoms; the third digit stands for the number of chlorine

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atoms; the fourth digit, the number of bromine atoms; and the fifth digit, the number of iodine atoms. If the fifth digit is zero, it is not expressed. (Table #1) The principal halons used for fire extinguishing today are Halon 1211 (primarily portable and local application) and Halon 1301 (total flooding application). Two Halon 1301 total flooding fire extinguishing systems unnecessarily discharged during the historic Banker’s Trust Building (280 Park Avenue) fire in the heart of midtown Manhattan in 1993. These systems were protecting computer rooms and were not in the immediate area of the fire.

They were activated when smoke entered these spaces, causing smoke detectors to start the systems.

Halons have been shown, however, to play a major role in the depletion of the earth’s ozone layer. When released into the atmosphere, they have an atmospheric lifetime of more than 50 years.

Halons eventually are broken down by the ultraviolet rays of the sun, causing the release of chlorine. It is this chlorine that is responsible for the breakdown of large quantities of ozone.

The United States banned the production and import of these agents on January 1, 1994, under the Clean Air Act. Existing halon extinguishing systems, however, are legal. Alternative systems must be provided if the halon system is removed or modified. The search for replacement and alternative “clean agents” is ongoing worldwide.

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) evaluates various substitute fire extinguishing agents that have low ozone depletion potential (ODP) and short-term atmos-

Table #1 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Halon Numerical System Chemical Name Carbon tetrachloride Bromochlorodifluoromethane Bromotrifluoromethane

Formula CCl4 CF2BrCl CF3Br

Halon Number 104 1211 1301

Carbon = 1; Fluorine = 2; Chlorine = 3; Bromine = 4; Iodine = 5

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INERGEN (inside bank of cylinders shown) is a blend of inert atmospheric gases that boasts zero ozone depletion, zero global warming potential and zero atmospheric lifetime.

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Varied Applications for Clean Agent Fire Protection • Aircraft engine nacelles • Archives • Bank vaults • Cellular sites • Communications facilities and rooms • Compressors and pump stations • Computer rooms • Data processing, electrical, electronics and telecommunications equipment • Engine rooms • Flammable liquid storage • Gas turbines and diesel generators • Historical sites • HVAC control rooms • Industrial high-ceiling spaces • Kitchens • Libraries • Locomotives

• Machinery • Mass transit vehicles • Military vehicles and installations • Mining equipment • Museums and art galleries • Offshore drilling rigs • Paint spray booths, lockers and mixing rooms • Petrochemical installations • Pharmaceutical and medical facilities • Pleasure craft • Raised floors • Record and storage facilities • Shipboard and marine engine rooms and holds • Switchgear buildings • Tape storage • Textile plants • Vaults

pheric lifetimes. Through the Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) program, the EPA is transitioning the United States from the halons to human-safe and environment-friendly systems.

SNAP-approved substitute fire extinguishing agents for halon, included in this article, are carbon dioxide, inert gas and INERGEN®, water mist, halocarbon agents, fluoroketones and powdered aerosols.

Halon alternatives or clean agents are defined as non-toxic substances that generally are not hazardous to humans in occupied, enclosed spaces. They also do not leave a residue after discharge on the contents of the building they are engineered to protect. Clean agents are very effective at extinguishing fire, fast acting, electrically non-conductive, non-corrosive and economical.

They are utilized in both local and total flooding fire extinguishing systems. The following are some of the most commonly used halon alternatives: • Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a clean agent that has been in use for many years and is deemed appropriate as a replacement for halon in specified applications. It is a colorless and odorless gas and considered the original clean fire extinguishing agent. From 1920 to 1960, CO2 was generally the only gaseous fire extinguishing agent on the market. It extinguishes fire by displacing oxygen, thereby eliminating one of the four components of the fire tetrahedron (oxygen, heat energy, fuel and chemical chain reaction) vital to sustain combustion. CO2 also has a cooling effect on the fire.

The high concentration of CO2 (minimum application is 34 percent) required to extinguish most fires within enclosed spaces in total flooding applications, however, creates a toxic environment that may be fatal to occupants. The gas is heavier than air and will accumulate along the floor level imitating a cloud, impeding vision and inhibiting occupants attempting to escape the area. It is for these reasons that carbon dioxide is used primarily for the protecUnique water mist nozzle with multiple orifices and stainless steel piping.

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tion of unoccupied buildings or spaces (raised floors in computer rooms) in occupied buildings.

In 2000, a woman working at a financial services company at 55 Water Street in lower Manhattan died from suffocation after accidentally locking herself inside a 10,000-square-foot vault holding stock receipts and triggering the activation of a carbon dioxide fire extinguishing system. CO2 is used on Class A- (limited), Class B- and Class C-type fires and has both local and total flooding applications. During local applications, avoid contact with the gas since frostbite can occur.

• Inert Gases (argon, nitrogen, helium) are known as the noble gases (Group VIIIA elements from the Periodic Table). These gases generally are non-reactive with other chemical substances.

Inert gases are colorless, odorless, non-corrosive, leave no residue and are electrically non-conductive.

Extinguishing systems using inert gas are designed to reduce the ambient oxygen concentration inside the protected area from the normal level of 21percent, to between 10 and 14 percent in total flooding applications. Within these oxygen limits, occupants can still survive while flaming combustion cannot be supported.

Inert gas systems are used to extinguish Class A, Class B, Class C and some Class D fires.

• INERGEN, manufactured by Ansul® Fire Protection, is the trade name for the clean agent composed of 52 percent nitrogen, 40 percent argon and eight percent carbon dioxide. The nitrogen and argon components are used to offset the weight of the carbon dioxide. INERGEN, therefore, has the same density as a normal atmosphere, which eliminates the need to provide special features within the enclosure to prevent leakage of the extinguishing agent.

It has similar characteristics to the inert gases that make up more than 90 percent of this extinguishing agent.

Unlike elemental inert gases, however, it elevates the room concentration of carbon dioxide in total flooding applications.

The enhanced carbon dioxide atmosphere helps to stimulate deep breathing in the human body (CO2 effect), enabling potentially trapped occupants to breathe acceptable levels of oxygen.

Unlike carbon dioxide, however, INERGEN does not liquefy under pressure, requiring more space for the storage tanks.

Relatively high concentrations of this agent (between 38 and 43 percent) are required in the room or area to be protected. This creates a large amount of pressure that must be relieved in order to prevent damage to the enclosure.

The New York Data Center (32 Avenue of the Americas), at the western end of Chinatown, employs INERGEN as its primary suppression agent. INERGEN is discharged through nozzles and used to extinguish Class A-, Class B-, Class C- and some Class Dtype fires.

• Water Mist systems incorporate specially engineered, fine water spray nozzles that use nitrogen to generate a micronized water mist atmosphere. The nozzles can be designed to deliver their spray under low, medium or high pressures. Water mist systems are more effective at extinguishing fires than standard sprinkler systems. The mist occupies a greater surface area per unit volume of water in comparison to the large water droplets of sprinkler systems. The enhanced surface area of the droplets allows the water mist to rapidly absorb heat energy from the fire. Additionally, as the water mist droplet changes to steam, it displaces available oxygen in the enclosed environment as it expands to approximately 1700 times at the base of the fire.

Water mist systems use substantially less water (one gpm/nozzle) to extinguish fire than do standard sprinkler systems (20 gpm/sprinkler head), resulting in less water build-up and damage.

Because the water is de-ionized and so little of it is necessary to extinguish fires, water mist systems surprisingly are designed to

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Members are urged to review the following references: • Answers.com, “Inergen,” http://www.answers.com/topic/inergen • Environment Canada, Ontario Region-Environmental Protection Branch, Federal Programs Division, Pollution Prevention Fact Sheet #14: Alternatives to Halon & Other Halocarbon Fire Extinguishing Agents, December 2000, http://www.p2pays.org/ref/19/18382.pdf • Fire Suppression Systems Association (FSSA), “About FSSA,” http://www.fssa.net/displaycommon.cfm?an=1 • Gootman, Elissa, “Woman Dies of Suffocation After Locking Herself in a Vault,” The New York Times, July 29, 2000, http://query.nytimes.com • Spectrex Inc., Halon Alternatives--SFE (Powdered Aerosol A), http://www.spectrex-inc.com/extinguishing/HalonAlternatives.htm • Willis Property Risk Control, Willis Technical Advisory Bulletin--Halon Alternatives, February 2005, www.willis.com/news/Publications/Feb2005_Technical_Advisory_Bulletin_ Halon.pdf

safely protect energized electrical equipment. The Pfizer Buildings in midtown Manhattan employ water mist fire suppression systems to protect their rooftop back-up electrical diesel generators.

A drawback of water mist is that during the extinguishing process in occupied spaces, the air in the enclosure is cooled, creating a foggy atmosphere that can impede evacuation procedures.

On the positive side, these systems are natural, non-toxic and highly effective. They are suitable for occupied and unoccupied areas and have both local and total flooding applications. Water mist is used on Class A-, Class B- and Class C-type fires.

• Halocarbon Agents are synthetic organic substances that contain a carbon-halogen (chlorine, fluorine, bromine or iodine) chemical bond, either individually or in some combination. They are acceptable SNAP replacements for the halons.

FM-200TM, manufactured by Great Lakes Chemical Corporation, is a common halocarbon agent used widely throughout the world as a replacement for Halon 1301. It is a colorless, liquefied gas that is rapidly fully discharged (within 10 seconds) through nozzles into an area as a clear, non-conductive vapor in total flooding applications. Relatively low concentrations of this agent (between four and nine percent) are required.

FM-200 extinguishes fire via heat removal and inhibits the chemical chain reaction inside the flame zone. It is a clean agent that has acceptable toxicity for use in occupied spaces. The telecommunications hotel at 60 Hudson Street and the NY Telephone Exchange Building (75 Broad Street), both located in lower Manhattan, have FM-200 fire extinguishing systems. Halocarbon agents are effective on Class A, Class B and Class C fires.

DuPont™ Company manufactures several (FE-25™, FE-13™ and FE-36™) of the most popular halocarbon fire extinguishing agents.

FE-25 mirrors the fire extinguishing capabilities of Halon 1301 for total flooding system applications. Generally, it is used in concentrations ranging from eight to 12 percent. FE-25 is considered by fire protection engineers as a “drop-in” replacement and retrofit system for Halon 1301 extinguishing systems. FE-13 also is used as a replacement for Halon 1301 and is ideal for cold temperature areas due to its high boiling point and high vapor pressure.

FE-36 is utilized in portable and local application fire extinguishing equipment. It is a replacement for Halon 1211. FE-36 discharges from the extinguisher as a liquid with a discharge range up to 16 feet. It has a very low toxicity level, is non-corrosive, electrically non-conductive and leaves no residue.

• Fluoroketones are clear, colorless, odorless liquids with low to moderate boiling points that are compressed and pressurized with nitrogen and stored in tanks. Fluoroketones look exactly like water, but don’t cause the damage associated with water when extinguishing fire in electronic and other delicate equipment. This agent is readily vaporized upon nozzle discharge. They have an atmospheric lifetime of only five days, as well as zero ozone depletion potential.

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Novec 1230 fire extinguishing system--although a liquid at room temperature inside the cylinders shown, this environmentally friendly halon replacement agent immediately gasifies after being discharged in a total flooding system.

Novec™ 1230 is a fluoroketone fire extinguishing agent manufactured by the 3M™ Company. It has both local and total flooding system applications.

This agent has the widest margin of safety when used in total flooding systems in occupied spaces since its use concentration is a very low four to six percent by volume. The control room for lighting the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center is protected by a Novec 1230 fire extinguishing system. Fluoroketones extinguish Class A, Class B and Class C fires via their cooling effect.

• Powdered Aerosols, which originated in the 1980s in what then was the Soviet Union, first were introduced into the global fire protection market in the early 1990s. They are used primarily in total flooding systems protecting unoccupied, enclosed areas and spaces. Powdered aerosol is manufactured using a varied mixture, which can include dry chemical extinguishing agent, gelled halocarbons, water, inert gas, carbon dioxide and oxygen.

A commonly used powdered aerosol agent (Powdered Aerosol A) consists of up to 40 percent dry chemical extinguishing agent (potassium) and 60 percent gaseous molecules (carbon dioxide, nitrogen, oxygen) contained in modular units (box-like generators with discharge outlets) or applicators of various sizes in a loop configuration around an enclosure. An electrical impulse from a separate detection system or a self-contained detection element provides the catalyst for activation. This energy penetrates into the dry chemical agent/gas mixture, pulverizing the agent and dispersing it very rapidly (0.1 to one second) over long distances into the area being protected. The small particle size (one to two microns) of the agent and enhanced surface area allow it to effectively inhibit the chemical chain reaction inside the fire zone.

Powdered aerosol systems involve simple installation and negligible maintenance, require no pressurized cylinders or piping, are cost-effective and have proved to provoke minimal toxic effects on humans. They generally have zero ozone depletion potential.

Powdered aerosol extinguishing systems are beginning to gain acceptance in the U.S. and currently are being used in Iraq to protect U.S. military armored and tactical vehicle crew cabs, engine compartments and under-carriages. They provide highly efficient fire extinguishment of Class A, Class B and Class C fires.

About the Author...

Deputy Assistant Chief Ronald R. Spadafora is a 29-year veteran of the FDNY. He is assigned to Operations as the Chief of Logistics. He holds a Masters degree in Criminal Justice from LIUC.W. Post Center, a BS degree in Fire Science from CUNY-John Jay College and a BA degree in Health Education from CUNY-Queens College.

He is an Editorial Advisor and frequent contributor to WNYF. He teaches Fire Science at John Jay College as an adjunct lecturer and is the senior lecturer for Fire Tech Promotions Inc.

21

2007 Fire Service Intelligence Enterprise Conference

by First Deputy Commissioner Frank P. Cruthers n September 6 and 7, 2007, history was made at the Hilton Hotel in Manhattan. FDNY and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) co-hosted an information-sharing and intelligence conference of major urban fire departments from across the United States. This was the 2007 Fire Service Intelligence Enterprise (FSIE) Conference.

Chiefs from 15 departments (see box below) and representatives from a number of Homeland Security agencies gathered to address a mutually recognized need to improve communications and information-sharing among fire departments and with the Department of Homeland Security. The Director of National Intelligence, Department of Justice and the U.S. Fire Administration also were represented and continue to support the Fire Service Intelligence Enterprise.

Following introductions, Major Reid Sawyer, USMA at West Point, provided firsthand views of the threat in both the United States and Iraq. Major Sawyer, who recently had returned from Iraq, has been a driving force behind FDNY’s Combating Terrorism Leadership course.

An important aspect of the conference is that it was not the beginning of the conversation on intelligence and informationsharing for the fire service. There were concurrent efforts underway on both coasts; in Los Angeles on the west and in New York on the east. Los Angeles County Chief P. Michael Freeman spoke on his experience and Deputy Assistant Chief Joseph Pfeifer presented the New York/DHS pilot.

The stated objective of the FDNY-DHS Intelligence Enterprise is “to establish a direct information conduit between the Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.” As envisioned, information would flow in both directions, to and The 15 Participating from both DHS and FDNY. Included would be pre-incident exchanges of Fire Departments information and intelligence, as well as • Baltimore City real-time updates during major inci• Boston • Chicago dents. Such exchanges, particularly • Denver when expanded beyond the pilot partici• District of Columbia pants to include other fire departments, • New York City will benefit all, providing assistance and • Houston • Las Vegas increasing effectiveness of efforts in • Los Angeles prevention, preparedness and response.

• Los Angeles County Beginning almost a year before the • Miami-Dade 2007 FSIE Conference, two meetings • Philadelphia between DHS and FDNY--one in New • Phoenix • San Francisco York and the other in Washington, DC-• Seattle provided the launch pad for the pilot, a three-month work plan and an exercise. Three members of DHS Office of Intelligence and Analysis (I&A) came to New York for the first meeting, September 6, 2006. They presented a proposal for a point-topoint information-sharing rela-

photos by FDNY Photo Unit

O

Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta delivered a keynote address at the FSIE conference.

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tionship and requested that FDNY send a delegation to Washington, DC, to meet with other DHS personnel. Four FDNY representatives went to Washington and, on November 3 and 6, 2006, met with personnel from the following DHS offices: Office of Intelligence and Analysis (I&A); Homeland Security Information Network (HSIN); Automated Critical Asset Management System (ACAMS); National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA)--Infrastructure Critical Asset View (ICAV); Risk Management Division (RMD); National Infrastructure Simulation and Analysis Center (NISAC); National Operations Center (NOC); National Infrastructure Coordinating Center (NICC); Homeland Infrastructure Threat and Risk Analysis Center (HITRAC); Lessons Learned Information Sharing (LLIS); Protected Critical Infrastructure Information (PCII) Program; and Office of Domestic Preparedness--Grants & Training (G&T).

Based on discussions at the November meetings, a joint, 90day, Phase I work plan was developed. The plan included 17 performance goals organized within 11 operational goals under six of the National Target Capabilities. (See boxes on page 23.) Biweekly situation reports updated the work plan, highlighted additions and deletions and presented potential obstacles to implementation. Thus, outputs (quantified list of actions taken) were tracked via a master task list, with each task linked to a performance goal on the work plan task grid. Using a joint FDNY/DHS functional exercise conducted on January 17, 2007, outcomes (results of an activity compared to intended purpose) were measured.

The FDNY Incident Management Team (IMT) participated in the exercise, which involved a radiation dispersal device (RDD) in lower Manhattan. There was connection and interaction with the National Operations Center (NOC). A joint after-action review (AAR) was written.

As of April 1, 2007, FDNY-DHS entered Phase II, which originally was intended to end in October 2007, but effectively was ended with the FSIE Conference in September. Phase II was organized under four operational goals: 1. Intelligence Collection and Analysis 2. Vulnerability and Consequence Mitigation 3.

Resource Identification and Coordination and 4. Situational Information Exchange.

Outstanding tasks/initiatives from Phase I were incorporated into Phase II. Phase II was broadened to include FDNY’s overall information-sharing objectives, some of which would not involve direct DHS participation. DHS, however, would continue to provide guidance and support. In retrospect, this step might be seen as the beginning of a fire service information-sharing network.

Prior to the FSIE conference, FDNY had gained the following through the FDNY-DHS pilot: • Secure telephone, fax and internet capabilities installed.

• Installation of DHS-approved safe to store classified material.

• A secure room was provided at FDOC. Chief of Department Salvatore J. Cassano was the master of ceremonies and delivered the closing remarks at the FSIE conference.

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Members are urged to review the following WNYF articles: • “FDNY/United States Navy Participate in War Gaming,” by Assistant Chief Michael Weinlein, in the 3rd/2002 issue.

• “FDNY and West Point Unite to Combat Terrorism,” by Chief of Department Peter E. Hayden, in the 2nd/2004 issue.

• “Fire Service and Homeland Security Collaborate to Form Fire Service Intelligence Enterprise (FSIE),” by Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta, in the 3rd/2007 issue.

• Connection was established between FDOC and NOC Fire Desk.

• DHS provided training on Homeland Security Information Network (HSIN).

• DHS granted clearance to an FDNY civilian to perform analytical work.

• DHS invited FDNY personnel to threat briefings in NYC. • LLIS created a dedicated page for FDNY products.

• Additional FDNY Chiefs were granted security clearances.

• DHS/LAPD provided ACAMS training. (NYPD personnel also were trained.)

While a number of people in both FDNY and DHS worked long and hard to advance the cause of information-sharing and make the conference first a reality, and then a success, nothing compares with interest and commitment from the highest level when it comes to driving a project over obstacles and to completion. Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta, Chief of Department Salvatore J. Cassano and DHS Chief Intelligence Officer Charles Allen made it known that they were behind this effort. They all attended the conference and participated. The Fire Commissioner and Mr. Allen each delivered keynote addresses, while Chief Cassano acted as master of ceremonies and delivered closing remarks at the FSIE conference.

There were presentations on information-sharing environment, fusion centers, networks, intelligence products, a threat briefing and report of the results of a pre-conference survey of fire service intelligence requirements. But the real accomplishments of the conference took place during the moderated discussion late in the afternoon of September 7. The attendees, who up until that time had been an audience, recognized and seized the opportunity to form a true partnership.

Two working groups quickly were formed and volunteer chairs identified. The District of Columbia’s Fire and Emergency Medical Services (DCFEMS) chairs the Intelligence Requirements work group and Los Angeles County Fire Department chairs the Governance group. Deputy Chief Michael Puzziferri, acting as Chief of Counter-Terrorism and Disaster Planning, very capably represents FDNY in both working groups.

DHS facilitated group meetings in Washington in January 2008 for both groups, as well as the newly formed Technical Support Work Group, co-chaired by the Seattle Fire Department and United States Fire Administration (USFA). The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and DHS Office of Intelligence and Analysis arranged and funded the work groups’ visit to Washington, DC, January 8-9, 2008. Target for each of the work groups is to present a finished document for consideration by the participating fire departments at a March 21, 2008, meeting in San Francisco.

The fire service enjoys a special 11 Operational Goals status regarding warrantless access to Six National Target Capabilities • Communications • Risk Management • Information-Gathering and Recognition of Indicators and Warnings • Intelligence Analysis and Production • Intelligence-/Information-Sharing and Dissemination • Critical Infrastructure Protection

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• Threat Alerts • Common Operational Picture • Impact Assessment • Target Hardening • Indicator Recognition • Threat Intelligence • Best Practices • Information Management • Geo-spatial Intel • Asset Information • Risk Assessment

17 Performance Goals • NOC: Provide FDNY with real-time threat alerts (HSIN); provide FDNY with POC to confirm or refute threat information • FDNY: Provide NOC with regular, real-time fire operations updates; realtime video from FDNY cameras and feeds (FDOC) • NOC: Provide FDOC with real-time information (data, voice and video) on incident operations; provide situational awareness on other incidents happening outside NYC • NICC: Provide FDOC with impact assessment/status reports for relevant CI/KR (including emergency services) during incident operations • NOC: Provide FDNY with law enforcement intelligence that may affect fire operations, investigations or responder/dignitary protection (BFI) • HITRAC: Provide FDNY with guidance on how to identify suspicious materials/activities • FDNY: Provide HITRAC with unique terrorist attack scenarios for further analysis and feedback • HITRAC: Provide FDNY with access to threat information and customized threat products to enhance situational awareness of FDNY planning and field units • FDNY: Provide LLIS with ERPs, exercises, AARs, etc. (CTDP) • LLIS: Create separate page for FDNY products • I&A: Train and equip the FDNY to receive and manage secure information; train FDNY on how to protect private sector CI information (PCII) • FDNY: Provide NGA with access to FDNY data bases for ICAV system (BFP, RATH) • NGA: Provide select FDNY users with a customized menu on ICAV of geospatially displayed data fields • FDNY: Work with ACAMS to develop data fields from fire service/life safety perspective • ACAMS: Provide FDNY with assessment data-gathering tool to inventory critical assets in NYC, using the DHS National Asset Database criteria • FDNY: Work with RMD/NISAC and NY PSAs to develop risk assessments from fire service/life safety perspective • RMD: Work with FDNY to develop RATH and integrate it into the Federal RA system (NISAC/PSA)

premises in order to effectively pursue its protective mission.

Thousands of times daily, all across the country, Firefighters enter homes and businesses, virtually unfettered. This unique privilege carries acknowledged responsibilities and must not be abused.

Firefighters are neither law enforcement nor intelligence agents.

Members can and should, however, be alert and observant.

New York City policy is that we do not inquire, speculate or report on the immigration status of those we serve. Nor do we conduct or extend searches, operations or inspections beyond what is necessary for safety. The Fire Service Intelligence Enterprise will enable the exchange of both strategic and tactical information among fire departments and with DHS. We will securely communicate hazards encountered, receive threat information and communicate real-time updates of ongoing events. Protection of civil rights is a key issue that will be addressed in the upcoming meetings.

Hard-earned congratulations and sincere thanks are offered to our federal partners for their support and guidance and to our fellow fire service agencies as well. Much has been accomplished in a short time. There remains, however, much more to do.

In March, another giant step forward will be taken toward the establishment of a nationwide fire service information-sharing network. The desired end state, which justifies the considerable efforts and expenditures involved, is a safer, better-informed, better-prepared, more effective fire service that is more involved in prevention than ever before; a fire service that makes an even greater contribution to the safety of the nation from natural and manmade threats, intentional or accidental.

About the Author...

First Deputy Commissioner Frank P. Cruthers is a 39-year veteran of the FDNY. He has held every uniformed position in the Department from Firefighter to Chief of Department. A long-time Editorial Advisor, this is his first article for WNYF.

23

A Primer on Purple K

by Battalion Chief Steven San Filippo DNY Firefighters strive to become familiar and knowledgeable regarding the various tools at their disposal. These tools include basic equipment, such as axes, Halligans and hooks, to the more complicated special equipment, such as Hurst tools, air bags and torches. They possess the constant need to become better at what they do. Everyday, they are challenged to perform at a very high level in short periods of time.

The fire and emergency ground on which Firefighters operate daily depends on the expertise gained by employing these tools.

As members of the FDNY, Firefighters are required to be familiar with the ever-changing complement of tools that make them the professionals they are today. One such tool with which all members--especially Chief Officers--must become more familiar is the Purple K apparatus.

F

When do these units respond?

Two units are required to respond City-wide on a 10-86 (foam operation) and also can be special-called to any incident scene at the discretion of the Incident Commander (IC). At other than a 1086 or when the IC determines that there is a need for the use of one unit, he/she should consider calling a second unit as a back-up.

Members should think of a Purple K operation in the same way as a foam operation. When considering a foam operation, ensure that there is enough concentrate on the scene prior to operating. This guarantees that the operation will be continuous and fluid. Having a second Purple K unit on the scene prior to commencing operations provides Firefighters with an uninterrupted application of dry chemical product on the fire.

photos by Battalion Chief Steven San Filippo

What is Purple K/dry chemical?

Purple K or dry chemical are two terms that are used interchangeably to define an extinguishing agent, which when applied correctly, combats class “B” (flammable liquid) and class “C” (electrical) fires. The name “Purple K” comes from the color of the powder (violet) and the periodic table symbol for potassium, “K.” It is composed of potassium bicarbonate powder that extinguishes fires by interrupting the chemical chain reaction of fuel, oxygen and heat and prevents it from creating active flaming. It is at least four to five times more effective in extinguishing fires than carbon dioxide and more than twice as effective as sodium bicarbonate-based methods.

Purple K has been used for many years in the petroleum industry, military facilities and gasoline stations (fixed systems) and is very prominent aboard U.S. Navy ships. When used aboard ship, it is applied using a dual nozzle, which is capable of applying either dry chemical or foam separately or in combination to extinguish class “B” engine room fires. It is very effective on spill fires and three-dimensional fires where the flow cannot be stopped until the fire is extinguished.

How does the FDNY utilize Purple K? Currently, the Department has six Purple K units, each quartered with an associated engine around the City. Two of the original units (Engine 228 and Engine 229) were introduced to the FDNY fleet in 1997 and the four newer units (Engines 33, 84, 163 and 326) were placed in service in 2006. As with the foam system, each of these six units has a corresponding back-up company, which has been trained in its operation.

Should the original unit be unable to respond, one of the backup units is called on to pick up the Purple K unit, respond and efficiently operate this special piece of equipment. This provides a continued and seamless response to any and all incidents that require the services of a Purple K unit.

The amount of Purple K product in the original units compared to the four newer units differs. The two original units carry less than the four newer units. Engines 228 and 229 (original units) contain 700 to 750 lbs. each of Purple K, which, when used continuously, is expelled after two minutes. While the four newer units contain 1000 lbs. each of Purple K powder, the operational time is increased only slightly.

The Purple K unit of Engine 228, one of the original units introduced in 1997. It carries 700 to 750 lbs. of Purple K.

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WNYF 1st/2008

Important Information for the Incident Commander 1. Two hundred feet is the maximum distance that nitrogen can propel powder through the one-inch hose.

2. Do not charge line unless Purple K will be used.

Unlike a water hand-line in a standby position, charging a Purple K line does have some drawbacks, such as: • Possible loss of nitrogen pressure, which will reduce the flow and require changing cylinders.

• Once line is charged (whether used or not), line will be required to be bled prior to repacking hose.

• Any loss of dry chemical powder will require refilling dry chemical chamber prior to placing unit in service.

3. Maximum two minutes of continued use. Consider calling a second unit prior to operating.

4. Back-up lines should be stretched; consider a foam line.

5. Only trained personnel should operate equipment.

6. Purple K has no cooling effect. Therefore, you still have vaporization and the potential for rekindles.

The Purple K unit of Engine 163. This newer unit contains 1000 lbs. of Purple K powder and increases members’ operational time slightly.

Important Information for Primary and Back-up Units 1. Tremendous knockdown of active flaming.

2. Compatible with foam.

3. Deploy hose completely prior to use.

4. Don’t turn back on fire. Continue to operate until well after fire is out.

5. Discharge range is 30 to 40 feet.

6. Attack fire from upwind, using a side-to-side motion from 20 to 30 feet away.

7. Extinguishing effect is transient and can dissipate quickly.

8. Each primary unit maintains one complete refill of dry chemical and nitrogen cylinders in quarters.

Note: MSDS sheet lists Purple K as a mild irritant to eyes and respiratory tract.

Appropriate PPE is required during operations.

Complement of equipment Each unit carries its Purple K powder contained in its cylinder ready to use. There are two nitrogen cylinders stored on the apparatus, which are used to propel the powder out of the container and through the one-inch hose. Each of these units has been issued two nozzles.

One nozzle is a 11/4-inch straight-bore nozzle, which distributes the powder in a wide pattern. Additionally, a dual hydro-chem nozzle is carried on the apparatus. This nozzle gives each unit the capability of providing foam and dry chemical powder through the same nozzle, either simultaneously or independently. Each of these nozzles is connected to a hose reel, which contains 100 feet of hose on each reel. Note: The four newer units have two hose reels with 150 feet of hose each.

It is important that the Incident Commander be cognizant that the maximum distance the nitrogen can propel the powder through the hose is 200 feet. Also, each unit carries a complement of portable dry chemical extinguishers should the incident require less powder and a more flexible approach.

How does the FDNY utilize these units?

As mentioned previously, Purple K works well on class “B” and class “C” fires. Fact: Everyday, tanker trucks travel through the City carrying thousands of gallons of flammable liquids. Whether a tanker truck’s purpose is to refuel gasoline stations, provide heating oil to commercial or residential buildings or support industry, Firefighters must be aware of the capabilities at their disposal.

Should one of these flammable liquid tanker trucks become FDNY Engines that Comprise the Purple K System Primary Engines/Location Engine 228 Brooklyn Engine 229 Brooklyn Engine 33 Manhattan Engine 84 Manhattan Engine 163 Staten Island Engine 326 Queens

WNYF 1st/2008

Backup Engines/Location Engine 242 Brooklyn Engine 230 Brooklyn Engine 3 Manhattan Engine 59 Manhattan Engine 157 Staten Island Engine 315 Queens

involved in fire while traveling on a bridge, the ensuing fire could expose structural components and endanger the bridge’s integrity.

On arrival, FDNY’s Purple K units--in conjunction with a foam line--can provide the quick knockdown of active flaming and protection of the bridge structure.

With this in mind, the four newer units have been assigned to locations that are in the vicinity of many City bridges. This provides protection for some of the major roadways in this City.

Another incident in which these units could become an The two nozzles carried on the Purple The top nozzle is a dual hydroimportant asset would be class K units. chem nozzle, which gives the unit the “C” fires. Whether manhole capability of providing foam and dry fires, power stations, trans- chemical powder through the same nozformers, conduits, cell phone zle, either simultaneously or independ1 sites or any other type of elec- ently. The bottom nozzle is a 1 /4-inch straight-bore nozzle, which distributes trical fire, Purple K can prothe powder in a wide pattern. vide an alternative to water.

As a safety precaution, electrical power should be secured prior to operating, which is standard procedure for hand-line use.

Underwriters Laboratories has given Purple K a “C” rating.

This rating has deemed Purple K powder extinguishers safe to operate on electrical components up to 100,000 volts. Note: Prior to employing these units on any electrical component, Con Edison should be consulted.

About the Author...

Battalion Chief Steven San Filippo is a 29-year veteran of the FDNY. Currently, he is assigned to Operations as the Foam Manager. He recently participated in the West Point Counter-Terrorism leadership and Fire Officers Management Institute (FOMI) programs. He is also a member of the Department’s Incident Management Team that responded to New Orleans for Hurricane Katrina.

This is his third article for WNYF.

25

photo by Allen Epstein photo by Matthew P. Daly

photo by P. Castle

Queens Box 22-5248, 88-16 179th Place/Hillside Avenue, November 16, 2007.

Fire in a private dwelling with fire extending to exposure #2.

Bronx Box 75-3812, Barnes Avenue/230th Street, October 17, 2007.

photo by Stephen “Butch” Moran

photo by Thomas Savage

Bronx Box 22-3536, 15 East 205th Street, November 8, 2007.

Brooklyn Box 22-1352, 2825 Haring Street, December 12, 2007.

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Brooklyn Box 22-674, 540 Willoughby Street/Throop Avenue, December 31, 2007.

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photo by Dennis Sanner photo by Allen Epstein

Bronx Box 75-2514, Union/East 165th Streets, October 13, 2007. Tower-Ladder 31 and Battalion 26 companies are ready to move into the 25- by 80-foot, three-story vacant building.

photo by C. Anastos

Brooklyn Box 33-845, 2148 Fulton Street/Rockaway Boulevard, January 4, 2008. Ladders 120, 111 and 103 were among the units operating at the incident.

Firefighters hose down the exterior at 1082 Nostrand Avenue/Lincoln Place, Brooklyn, photo by Scott LaPrade December 15, 2007. Engine 249 was first-due at the Box.

Bronx Box 75-3657, 624 East 222nd Street/Carpenter Avenue, October 15, 2007.

Photo Reporter

Brooklyn Box 2442, Flatbush/Ditmas Avenues, November 6, 2007. photo by FF Timmy Collins, E-255

WNYF 1st/2008

Haz-mat decon operation takes place in a New York City housing complex at 81 Jersey Street, near Richmond Terrace, Staten Island, November 5, 2007. There were chemical burns to two workers; nine civilians and 10 FDNY members were deconned. photo by Mary DiBiase Blaich

27

Fire and Emergency Operations at Buildings Hosting Cell Phone Sites

by Captain Thomas H. Roche (retired) ires and emergencies at buildings hosting cell phone sites (CPS) can be divided into two groups, depending on whether the CPS is directly involved and influences the fire or the CPS is remote and not a factor in operations. For example, consider an interior room installation with no rooftop generator.

The antennae are attached to the parapet walls and the coaxial cable runs along the parapet and down an exterior wall of the building to the base station room. This would not adversely affect FDNY operations when the cellular phone site is remote from the fire or emergency.

A CPS directly involved in a fire or emergency requires taking steps to reduce or eliminate the hazards. These include removing power to the computer equipment by shutting down the public utility at the CPS meter, preventing battery power from energizing the computers when a shut-off rocker switch is provided and shutting down the diesel or natural gas supply and turning off the generator if present.

Whenever a rooftop installation is located at a top-floor fire-even if the fire has not yet extended into the cockloft--the CPS is considered part of the fire scenario. Likewise, a CPS in an interior location below a heavy body of fire that is expected to experience seepage from water run-off also is directly involved.

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Obstacles and hazards Buildings with cell phone sites present many obstacles and hazards, which are identified below.

Electrocution--The computers operate with high-amperage, direct-current electricity and the battery packs store high-amperage direct current. Both are extremely dangerous and pose the real possibility of electrocution when precautions are not followed.

During thunderstorms, Firefighters using aerial ladders and operating on a rooftop that has a roof-mounted installation and/or

Cell phone sites present numerous obstacles to firefighting operations.

Electrical equipment and generators on the roof increase the dead load and collapse potential of the building. The collapse zone will be the entire perimeter of the building. The presence of natural gas introduces ignition and explosion hazards. Access and egress to the building and on the roof should be limited.

28

several antennae must recognize the risk of being struck by lightning. Copper ground wires may be cut and stripped away by vandals and sold as scrap.

Basement and ground-level installations are areas of concern when responding to an emergency for flooding. A site submerged in water must be avoided and poses the same hazards as the building’s primary electrical supply.

The electrocution hazard is obvious at the base station, but throughout the building, there may be inherent hazards and hidden dangers. Electrical conduit exposed to high heat or fire can melt the electrical wire’s PVC insulation, resulting in an energized metal conduit. These conduits run up the exterior building walls adjacent to fire escapes, along parapets and rooftops and up interior light and air shafts and dumbwaiter shafts, with different designs and methods to supply power to rooftop installations.

Currently, there are no written rules or codes governing installation methods. These cell phone sites are installed without any regard for the safety or efficiency of firefighting operations.

Radiation exposure-Radio waves are a form of radiation exposure and any antenna that transmits radio frequency (RF) is hazardous. When a cellular phone site is active, the The battery pack can have as many as 28 12-volt batteries in the base station room. Their output ranges from 150 to 250 amps.

The battery never should be disconnected via the terminals.

Because of numerous health hazards--radiation, electrocution, explosion, carcinogens released from computer frames on fire and hydrogen chloride released as a product of combustion--at cell phone sites, SCBA use is mandatory for Firefighters.

WNYF 1st/2008

Collapse hazards are prolific at cell phone sites. They pose an additional dead-weight load on the roof. A substantial cockloft fire weakens the roof supporting system. An I-beam that is exposed to fire will elongate. An expanding I-beam can push the parapet wall outward.

antennae are projecting radio frequency power, putting humans in the horizontal plane of the RF beam in danger of an acute radiation exposure. Usually, the area in front of the antenna is the danger zone, but a malfunctioning antenna can project radiation from the rear.

Exposure to RF power heats the water in the deep tissue of the human body to elevated temperatures. Add this to the effect that bunker gear and strenuous work has on a Firefighter’s core temperature and the possibility of a physiological injury will increase.

The antennae usually are attached to the parapet wall by brackets and face outward. This means that the front of the antenna is facing away from the roof upon which the Firefighters are operating. The back of the antenna that faces the roof side of the building is not designed to propagate a radio frequency beam. As a general rule, any member operating on a roof or in a tower ladder bucket or on an aerial ladder closer than four feet to the front of an antenna that is emitting the maximum permissible exposure set by the FCC must use caution.

Conversely, Firefighters operating on a roof behind antennae usually are not exposed to harmful levels of RF. There can be anomalies and, for safety reasons, stay away from an antenna unless operations absolutely require working around them.

Limiting the time exposed and keeping the greatest distance possible from these sources of radiation is the most practical way to protect one’s health.

Collapse--The dead load created when a cellular phone site is added to the roof of an existing building compromises the stability of the structure. Sizeable loads, consisting of bearing I-beams and cell site equipment, are added to an existing structure (usually the parapet wall) that originally was not designed to support them. Each site can contribute an additional 10 tons of dead-load weight to the roof support system without any substantial reinforcement to provide extra stability. The building code allows up to three sites on one building lot.

Frequently, the I-beam is embedded into the parapet wall.

When this beam is exposed to the high temperatures of a cockloft fire, the resulting elongation will push the wall out, causing it to fall to the street level below. Excessive heat may cause the beam to fail, resulting in 20,000 lbs. of steel and equipment crashing through the roof onto the top floor.

Retired Deputy Chief Vincent Dunn stated that a burning building is a structure under demolition. Such a philosophy applies to a fire under a roof-mounted CPS. Incident Commanders (IC) should consider establishing a collapse zone when confront-

WNYF 1st/2008

ed with uncontrolled top-floor/cockloft fires in buildings with a roof-mounted CPS. Additionally, serious consideration should be given to evacuating all occupants and members from the building.

Tripping hazards--The roof Firefighter has to deal with obstacles previously unknown. Ladders 3 section 5.1 lists several roof hazards, including soil pipes, clotheslines, television and radio antennae. The Fire Prevention Inspection Guide mentions, “wires and cables must be 10 feet above the roof. Clotheslines are exempt.”

Now there are coaxial cables, electrical conduit, diesel and natural gas piping, radio frequency radiation from antennae and electrical wiring and equipment powered by more than 200 amps of electrical current. The conduit, piping and cable raceway are tripping hazards because they usually are found six to 12 inches above the roof surface.

Operational strategies The first thing Firefighters must consider at fires and emergencies involving a CPS is their safety. To safely accomplish their assigned tasks, general information about CPS hazards is required and specific information relative to that particular building is preferred. This is essential to completing assigned tasks efficiently and safely and overcoming the inherent obstacles and hazards associated with buildings hosting cell phone sites.

As a result of prior knowledge, documentation and training, Firefighters know that a rooftop installation can significantly reduce vertical ventilation of a top-floor or cockloft fire under-

For a cell site involved in fire, Firefighters should 1. Shut off the electric supply and disconnect the batteries if possible. 2. Shut down the diesel or gas supply to the generator and then turn off the generator. 3. Use Purple K to extinguish the fire.

29

Electric Power Sources he electrical power sources are considered the second component of a cell phone site and consist of utility power supply, a rectifier, a battery pack for back-up power and, possibly, a generator to produce its own power should the public utility fail to supply a source of electricity. While correct to differentiate between the frames of computer equipment and the sources of electricity that energize them, it is important to recognize that the two often are not physically separated. Whether the installation is an interior room, on the roof or in a courtyard, a circuit-breaker panel supplied by the public utility will be present, as will a battery pack serving as a source of back-up power. Only the generator, if available as a tertiary source of electric power, is in a remote location.

Utility power supply In New York City, either Con Ed or Keyspan provides the commercial electricity necessary to power electrical equipment and they are the primary power source at all CPS. These utility lines usually enter the building at the basement level and that is where Firefighters will find a meter and power shut-off for each cell site in the building.

Occasionally, meters and shutoffs for CPS are found outside on an exterior wall of the building. This power source probably is separate from the house main. The service consists of 208 volts of alternating current, delivered at 200 amps, and is transported via electrical conduit from the meter to the location of the base station circuit breaker panel.

Rectifier An intricate component in the electric power supply is a rectifier, which can be exceptionally dangerous.

The rectifier converts the public utility’s supply of alternating current to the direct current used by the computer equipment and battery pack.

Therefore, the rectifier is the main source of power to the computer equipment while it continuously charges the batteries. It looks much like the computer equipment it powers and is distinguished by the rectangular instruments containing air vent lou-

T

(Top) Electrical power sources are comprised of four elements--utility power supply, rectifier, battery pack and generator. There may be two or three power sources to shut down at a cell phone site. (Middle) The rectifier, which contains 250 amps of electrical current, has three functions-converts alternating current to direct current, supplies power to computer equipment and continuously charges the battery pack. (Bottom) The generator powers equipment and charges batteries when the utility is off. A permanent generator is powered by diesel or natural gas. A portable generator is diesel-powered.

neath a CPS. Immediately notifying the Incident Commander of a CPS at a fire operation is necessary for fireground situational awareness, the safety of members and any deviations to FDNY SOPs that may be ordered or required.

At CPS fires or emergencies, the life hazard is generally that of the Firefighter attempting to control the situation. On arrival, if the entrance door to the CPS is locked closed, there is an extremely low chance of any life hazard inside. Considering the highamperage (amps kill) electrical equipment and the fully charged battery pack found in a maze-like configuration at these sites, there is little benefit to entering an interior room base station.

Engine company operations The extinguishing medium of choice involving a CPS base or

30

vers and an LCD screen visible in the middle of its frame.

This equipment is very dangerous and introduces a serious electrocution hazard. Never use water on a rectifier, even after shutting down utility power, because the back-up battery power automatically starts feeding it with 200 to 300 amps of direct current to continue supplying computers with electricity. An extinguishing medium rated for electrical fires--such as Purple K or dry chemical--is appropriate, but must be used from a safe distance to prevent any arcing, resulting in an accidental electrocution. Depending on the rectifier’s location in the base station, applying the Purple K from outside the room can increase Firefighter safety.

Back-up power supply At every installation (interior rooms in the basement, sites mounted on the roof and any other location), there is a battery pack present as a back-up power supply, found immediately adjacent to the computer frames it energizes. The number and type of batteries in the pack vary; 24 12-volt batteries or 16 13.8-volt batteries are the most common configurations. The battery pack is capable of storing more than 200 amps of direct current that can power the computer equipment for six to eight hours. The battery pack is readily visible in an interior room and hut-style installation and can be detected by the air-conditioning unit in the casing of its frame in the suspended style.

These batteries are far from harmless and must be treated with respect. Most cellular phone companies have opted not to provide their battery packs with a disconnect switch, which means that Firefighters cannot completely shut down power to the computer frames. Never attempt to disengage power by removing the covering and disconnecting each battery terminal. There is a risk of electrocution, creating an explosion or being sprayed with sulfuric acid. Always use extreme care and restrict the use of water and metal tools.

Generator Besides a battery pack as a back-up for commercial utility loss, some sites also have an on-site generator to produce electricity in case of a power failure.

Regardless of the base station location, an on-site generator often is located on the roof, propped on I-beams that are supported by the parapet walls. Diesel or natural gas piping runs from the gas utility entrance to the building to the locale of the generator, whether via an exterior building wall or up an interior shaft. This generator operates when a Firefighter shuts down primary power to the base station. The generator is shut down by closing the petcock valve at the meter, preventing the flow of diesel or natural gas.

Portable generator receptacles To ensure continued service for sites without an on-site generator, cell phone companies construct their sites with portable generator capacity. An electrical conduit to feed the base station is installed that usually ends at the street level with a receptacle capable of receiving power from a portable generator hauled to the site in case of a blackout. Portable generators run on diesel fuel.

Transfer switches To allow sites to be powered by generator, the cell phone companies have installed transfer switches within the power distribution system. An on-site generator and sites that have the electrical conduit ending with a generator receptacle contain automatic transfer switches. Older sites without a generator or the conduit with a generator cable receptacle use a manual transfer switch. At such a site, an electrician runs an electrical line from the generator, which was hauled to the site. The electrical line goes into a manual transfer switch located in the base station room. Then, power is activated by throwing the manual transfer knife switch.

A manual transfer switch can look like a power shut-off knife switch.

Firefighters must take care not to confuse the two, believing they have shut down utility power when, in reality, they have not. Often, the power shut-off at the meter is a knife switch, but there is a main circuit breaker in an electrical service panel in the base station room.

any of its electrical components is dry chemical or Purple K. Dry chemical or Purple K extinguishers are expended at a base station door (if a base station is involved in fire) and the door closed to extinguish all fire, pending the arrival of a cell phone site representative.

Hand-line operations into a base station room are restricted until all electrical power is completely shut down. Generally, this is not possible because most battery packs do not have remote disconnect switches. They are not required and usually not found.

Engine tactics at fires involving CPS can be limited to stretching a precautionary fog-/straight-stream line to prevent exposure and collateral damage from fire and/or to protect ladder company members opening the base station door (if necessary). At top-floor and cockloft fires, a hose-line on the roof can protect electrical conduit and gas black pipe from auto-exposure and prevent flame impinge-

WNYF 1st/2008

Where Cellular Phone Sites are Found he cell site’s location within the host building varies from site to site.

Because the New York City Building Code allows three different cellular phone companies to construct individual sites on a single building lot and the area required to construct a cell site is relatively small, they can be found almost anywhere in or on a building. The configuration of a site depends on the available space and the objectives of the cellular phone company. The antennae almost always are found at the roof level regardless of the location of the base station that facilitates the phone calls. The antennae and the computers in the base station are connected by coaxial cable.

For economic reasons, rooftop installations are very popular. The landlord is happy to collect money for previously un-rentable space and the cellular phone company appreciates the efficiency of having the base station close to the radio wave antennae, effectively reducing the amount of coaxial cable necessary to connect the two.

There are basically three CPS styles found on the roof: • The suspended site has the base station computers and back-up battery pack in frames, supported by a metal grating that sits atop I-beams.

• The hut site is a prefabricated combustible room (containing computers, battery pack and an electrical power service panel) that is placed on I-beams by a crane.

• The older cabinet site hangs on a bulkhead wall or rests on a perch. It is being phased out slowly.

Other areas where cell phone sites are found include interior courtyards or large alleyways. Again, the economic benefit to the landlord makes this an attractive, rentable space, despite the electrical (high amperage) and possible radiation hazards.

When the cellular phone company executives desire to better protect their investment and allow technicians to perform repair work despite inclement weather, they choose an interior occupancy to construct the site. In multiple dwellings, the available space most often is in the cellar, but a Firefighter can find a site on any floor and interior location, including large closets.

Expect sole access to a cellular phone site through a residential (superintendent’s) apartment. This is an extremely dangerous scenario for Firefighters conducting searches or operating solid-stream hand-lines, if they crawl into the base station room containing high-amperage electrical equipment unaware of the risk they are encountering.

A storefront also is a possible location for a CPS. The opening for what was a plate-glass window is bricked over or blocked up and the site entrance door is covered by a roll-down gate 24/7, except when a cell technician is working within the site.

T

Engine companies operating at cell phone site fires must adhere to the following provisos: Restrict use of water and metal tools near electric equipment/conduit. (Disconnecting battery power is a complex procedure that requires a licensed electrician and cannot be done by Firefighters at the scene.) No water use on CPS that have not been de-energized. Use a narrow fog stream. Use water from a safe distance and beware of run-off water because it may become electrically charged.

ment on the CPS rooftop installation and its I-beam supports.

Water run-off and electrical conduit lines are always a concern and water pooling on a rooftop with a rooftop installation may present an electrocution hazard. Water run-off to a room below can seep down onto the computer equipment and cause arcing and/or a secondary electrical fire. Always limit the amount of water (if possible) in and/or around any operation involving a CPS. Ladder company tactics The roof Firefighter will encounter additional hazards at any building that has a CPS. Whether the base station is on the roof or in an interior room, there will be antennae at the roof level. An FDNY Bronx survey involving radio frequency emissions from rooftop antennae suggest that Firefighters operating on the roof are not exposed to dangerous levels of radiation when the antennae are attached to the parapet walls and facing away from the roof.

However, precautions are necessary.

Different types of antennae include one that is distinguished by its thick, spherical shape.

It emits RF peripherally from the sides and front, whereas the flat-panel antenna only emits RF from the front.

Therefore, avoid not only the front, but also the sides of these spheriCertain antennae, such as the one pictured cal antennae. above, emit RF from the sides as well as the Accomplish your front. Caution must be used to prevent a raditask and descend to mination exposure that exceeds the FCC maxi-

Examples of the roof-mounted installation; the hut style is on the left and the suspended style is on the right.

imize the possibility of exposure. On rare occasions, cellular phone companies place antennae on the roof in such a way that a Firefighter can walk directly in front of the antenna. Increasing distance at least four feet and limiting time around these antennae are major factors in reducing exposure to potentially dangerous RF radiation.

When the fire building with a rooftop CPS installation is isolated and the aerial or bucket is the chosen route to the roof, the chauffeur (with prior knowledge or from CIDS) can guarantee safe access for the roof Firefighter by placing the turntable in the correct location. Knowledge of your CPS and response area is necessary because sometimes, large huts block access to portions of the roof and will block access to attached adjoining buildings.

Besides CPS blocking access, the cell phone antennae may line the parapet walls, making access onto the roof difficult.

Hazards include passing in front of antennae that are emitting RF and/or negotiating the cable, electrical conduit and gas line raceways that are found on building walls, parapets and rooftops.

mum permissible limits.

WNYF 1st/2008

31

Members are urged to review the following references: • “Cellular Phone Communication Sites--An Overview,” by Deputy Assistant Chief Ronald R. Spadafora, in the 1st/2003 issue of WNYF. • “Cell Phone Stations--New Dangers on New York City Rooftops,” by Lieutenant Albert Gonzalez and then-Lieutenant John M. Miles, in the 2nd/2003 issue of WNYF. • AUC 338--Application of Water on Energized Electrical Equipment.

• AUC 331--Cellular Phone Sites, October 13, 2000.

• “A Primer on Purple K,” by Battalion Chief Steven San Filippo, on page 24 of this issue of WNYF. • Collapse of Burning Buildings, by Vincent Dunn.

gaskets where the cables penetrate to the exterior. Frequently, a sheet metal frame is constructed on the outside. By tearing down this frame and removing the gaskets, an opening about the size of FDNY fans allows Firefighters to mechanically vent the room from the exterior of the building. This is especially beneficial if dry chemical or Purple K agents were used to extinguish the fire.

Ladder companies should employ the following ventilation tactics at cell phone site fires: Avoid cutting openings close to equipment. Members should use horizontal ventilation to augment vertical ventilation. Bear in mind that a roof installation can reduce the area available for vertical ventilation. If this is the case, notification to their Officer and Incident Commander is required.

These types of hazards and obstacles are more readily identified and safely resolved prior to the fire or emergency when included in CIDS information and will lead to a more efficient operation.

Ventilation techniques Rooftop installations--whether suspended or hut-style--present numerous obstacles to fire operations. A roof-mounted cellular phone site severely hampers the ability to cut adequate vertical ventilation holes. Vertical ventilation to prevent mushrooming heat and gases on the top floor at all fires is accomplished by opening the bulkhead. Additionally, at top-floor/cockloft fires, there are instances when the truck Officer will order that a vent hole be cut in the roof. Don’t attempt to cut a hole under a roofmounted CPS. When a cell site or any of its components prevents a vent hole in the roof from being cut above a fire below and vertical ventilation is limited or non-existent, the Incident Commander must be notified immediately. This critical fireground information will improve situational awareness among all operating units and must be communicated to the unit Officer and Incident Commander as this may necessitate a change in tactics. Anytime Firefighters deviate from SOPs or cannot accomplish the task at hand, immediate notification to the Officer and IC is required.

If a vertical ventilation hole is smaller than usual because of the configuration of the cell site, the use of horizontal ventilation can be helpful to augment the movement of air to release heat, smoke and flammable gases from the fire area. Horizontal ventilation never can occur before an engine company has water and is moving in to extinguish the fire. Using extra hooks and additional manpower at top-floor fires to pull ceilings and expose the cockloft may help ventilation and prevent a smoke explosion in the cockloft.

Once a fire in an interior room CPS installation is controlled, the best way to ventilate the room is with mechanical fans from the outside. Every CPS has to run coaxial cable from the computers to the antennae. This usually is done via the exterior wall adjoining the site. This exterior wall is sealed inside with rubber

32

Firefighting tactics at fire operations involving CPS • Shut down the CPS electrical power: 1. Public utility supply shut-off at CPS meter in cellar/basement.

2. Turn off generator and shut off flow of diesel or natural gas.

3. Stop flow of direct current from batteries if the shut-off rocker switch is present.

• “Wet” batteries contain sulfuric acid and release hydrogen gas when charging. Treat the vicinity around the battery pack as a volatile atmosphere.

• Vent, enter and search (VES) apartment/occupancy above, below and adjacent to the base station..

• Request cell phone company representative. Providing unique cell site number increases chances of getting a cell tech responsible for that site. Usually, this unique number is located on the door to the base station.

• Use dry chemical or Purple K to extinguish electrical equipment on fire.

At top-floor fires with rooftop installations: • Inform IC how site is supported.

• Establish a collapse zone around suspect parapet walls.

• Continuously evaluate parapet stability.

• Evacuate all occupants from entire building at uncontrolled cockloft fires with rooftop CPS installations. A collapse should be anticipated.

• Prevent collapse by protecting steel I-beams from heat and flame impingement.

• Special-call a Battalion Chief for roof sector to monitor operations and structure.

• Once steel supports and the CPS base station are exposed to heat and fire, immediate notification to the IC is required as evacuation and exterior operations may be indicated.

The author thanks Assistant Chief James Esposito, Bronx Borough Commander, for sharing his expertise and providing great assistance with this article.

About the Author...

Captain Thomas H. Roche (retired) was a 25year veteran of the FDNY. He was assigned to the Bronx Borough Command as the Training Coordinator. Prior to that assignment, he was Captain of Ladder 53, Lieutenant of Ladder 61 and served as a Firefighter with Engines 75 and 46. This is his first article for WNYF.

WNYF 1st/2008

FDNY Foundation Uses DHS Grant to Implement City-wide Smoke Alarm Media Campaign n July 2007, the FDNY Foundation received a Department of Homeland Security Fire Safety Grant, which was used to implement a City-wide media campaign aimed at helping to reduce fires and fire fatalities. The Sound the Alarm campaign launched in January 2008, via print, radio, television, subway, internet and outdoor advertising, to help spread the vital message of fire safety to millions of New York City residents, visitors and commuters.

The FDNY has found that 90 percent of the City’s households have smoke alarms. However, too many of them do not operate, primarily because of missing or dead batteries. The campaign message focuses on the need for working smoke alarms. Additionally,

I

The generous grant of $900,000 from the Department of Homeland Security provided to the FDNY Foundation has made possible the Sound the Alarm advertising campaign to encourage New Yorkers to check their smoke alarms regularly and ensure that the batteries are working. Pictured above are Andrew Guarino, Vice Chairman of the FDNY Foundation; Chief of Department Salvatore J. Cassano; Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta; Chief Gregory Cade, Department of Homeland Security; and Stephen L. Ruzow, Chairman of the FDNY Foundation. The check presentation was made at Rockefeller Center during Fire Prevention Week in October 2007.

This is the Sound the Alarm print advertisement that everyone can see in the subway, on the internet and in other advertising venues.

WNYF 1st/2008

high fire-risk incidence communities will be pinpointed.

The FDNY Foundation collaborated with the FDNY Fire Safety Education Unit, Office of Public Information and Imaging Unit to develop this powerful campaign. The goal is to share the tenets of fire safety by reaching out to greater numbers of New York City’s high-risk and diverse populations.

The FDNY Foundation funds unbudgeted fire safety education programs and the professional development, training and educational needs of the Department’s members. FDNY Foundation Board members and supporters believe that everyone has a stake in a fire-safe and secure New York City. Helping New York’s Bravest save lives and obtain necessary training and equipment are direct and crucial investments in sustaining the City’s quality of life.

For more information about the FDNY Foundation, visit the web site at www.FDNYFoundation.org.

33

Runs & Workers 2007 Rank Engine

Bronx Box 55-3220, 2139 White Plains Road/Lydig Avenue, February 4, 2008. Members of Engine 48 operate hose-line at incident. photo by FF Michael Gomez, Squad 288

Brooklyn Box 33-855, 977 Jefferson/Howard Avenues, March 9, 2008. photo by Queens Dispatcher Joseph Epstein

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

E-58 E-62 E-290 E-75 E-298 E-69 E-92 E-37 E-79 E-54 E-93 E-22 E-1 E-53 E-8 E-3 E-96 E-65 E-59 E-234 E-48 E-257 E-249 E-33 E-76

Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

Engine E-255 E-290 E-231 E-42 E-75 E-45 E-92 E-69 E-248 E-58 E-48 E-249 E-257 E-62 E-283 E-50 E-93 E-281 E-79 E-234 E-227 E-43 E-59 E-63 E-275

Division 3 7 15 7 13 6 6 3 7 3 7 3 1 3 3 1 6 3 6 15 7 15 15 1 3 Division 15 15 15 7 7 7 6 6 15 3 7 15 15 7 15 6 7 15 7 15 15 7 6 7 13

Runs

Rank

5627 5444 5350 5330 5324 5323 5263 5136 5105 5086 5004 4986 4953 4951 4943 4927 4923 4869 4863 4814 4782 4781 4765 4764 4760

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

OSW* 578 507 496 490 487 475 457 449 448 446 446 434 429 423 421 419 418 416 412 408 406 386 368 367 365

Rank Engine 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

Engine E-290 E-298 E-3 E-62 E-257 E-69 E-75 E-96 E-8 E-58 E-234 E-255 E-93 E-249 E-310 E-1 E-235 E-231 E-92 E-54 E-273 E-14 E-76 E-45 E-59

E-298 E-96 E-3 E-1 E-290 E-257 E-8 E-35 E-92 E-62 E-235 E-93 E-54 E-246 E-16 E-234 E-76 E-75 E-273 E-58 E-302 E-249 E-64 E-231 E-45

Division Workers 15 13 1 7 15 6 7 6 3 3 15 15 7 15 15 1 11 15 6 3 14 1 3 7 6

4729 4350 4243 4098 4097 3962 3865 3833 3831 3816 3746 3714 3704 3690 3638 3611 3605 3544 3527 3508 3438 3430 3408 3394 3393

Division Med. Resp.

13 6 1 1 15 15 3 3 6 7 11 7 3 8 3 15 3 7 14 3 13 15 6 15 7

2235 2068 2019 2014 1976 1883 1875 1847 1824 1792 1758 1757 1756 1753 1707 1684 1684 1682 1668 1640 1636 1629 1613 1612 1612

* Occupied Structural Workers

34

WNYF 1st/2008

Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Battalion 1 2 3 4 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 26 27 28 31 32

Ladder Division L-26 3 L-4 3 L-43 3 L-123 15 L-2 3 L-147 15 L-113 15 L-24 1 L-103 15 L-120 15 L-28 6 L-44 6 L-40 3 L-157 15 L-45 7 L-34 7 L-13 3 L-111 15 L-16 3 L-132 15 L-174 15 L-112 15 L-33 7 L-22 3 L-102 11 Runs 3018 2730 2524 2361 3817 3607 4862 5573 3726 3969 3713 3645 2548 3780 4184 2810 2735 3883 3160 2054 2587 1803 2160 2808 2467 3011 1939

WNYF 1st/2008

Operational Time (hours) 1473 1274 938 1132 1970 1517 2977 2515 1782 1622 1687 1310 1156 1910 1982 1314 1135 2214 1876 100 1797 881 1110 1693 1302 1047 1410

Runs 4608 4599 4475 4465 4306 4209 4124 4098 4062 4048 4045 4026 4004 4000 3875 3800 3791 3764 3751 3731 3712 3669 3620 3615 3608 Structural Workers 221 286 498 419 422 324 333 403 599 638 863 684 601 933 1007 670 707 995 522 291 364 203 707 839 434 361 291

Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Battalion 33 35 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 57 58

Ladder Division Workers L-4 3 3840 L-123 15 3705 L-174 15 3639 L-113 15 3424 L-170 15 3354 L-120 15 3333 L-157 15 3305 L-26 3 3289 L-43 3 3245 L-102 11 3221 L-2 3 3211 L-40 3 3197 L-44 6 3190 L-103 15 3171 L-111 15 3147 L-24 1 3139 L-28 6 3104 L-147 15 3019 L-112 15 2976 L-13 3 2911 L-22 3 2840 L-16 3 2828 L-45 7 2824 L-32 7 2783 L-33 7 2775 Runs 3142 2999 2232 2859 2318 3178 3545 1932 1737 3188 2816 3934 1789 2209 3087 4029 2624 2902 2206 2832 3018 2517

Operational Time (hours) 1520 1815 837 1520 981 1400 2469 955 1037 1920 1323 1910 987 1476 2007 1730 1199 1442 1007 1355 1363 1254

Structural Workers 604 626 498 840 490 672 1315 339 349 936 319 692 342 400 390 753 505 438 264 464 710 520

Bureau of Fire Investigation All Cases Investigated Total Incendiary Fires All BFI Arrests/Assists

6084 2103 335

Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

Ladder Division L-157 15 L-112 15 L-120 15 L-111 15 L-123 15 L-147 15 L-113 15 L-44 6 L-174 15 L-103 15 L-176 15 L-102 11 L-132 15 L-26 3 L-19 6 L-28 6 L-40 3 L-33 7 L-138 14 L-105 11 L-170 15 L-32 7 L-148 11 L-43 3 L-54 6

OSW* 767 719 714 685 660 641 625 618 611 610 587 580 550 547 542 528 519 486 484 484 475 473 471 460 451

Special Units: Runs & Workers Unit

Runs

Workers

OSW* or Hrs. Worked

Rescue 1 Rescue 2 Rescue 3 Rescue 4 Rescue 5 Squad 1 Squad 18 Squad 41 Squad 61 Squad 252 Squad 270 Squad 288 Marine 1 Marine 3 Marine 4 Marine 6 Marine 8 Marine 9 Hazardous Materials Company 1 Haz-Mat Battalion Rescue Operations Battalion Safety Battalion 1 Field Communications Unit

2922 3319 1675 2483 1761 1876 3952 3569 3521 2649 3125 2245 355 272 150 366 143 226

1072 804 629 748 530 911 2611 2025 2049 1885 2223 1326 354 272 150 366 143 220

320* 489* 412* 331* 170* 302* 288* 472* 393* 398* 317* 233* 324 197 142 288 136 216

835 1206

460 520

642 1074

97 1771

97 1771

111 1562

456

234

691

35

by Deputy Chief John A. Jonas

1. Fires in private dwellings present unique challenges in their extinguishment. Consider the following statements about engine company operations at private dwellings and choose the least correct statement. a. The primary consideration for the placement of the first hoseline is through the front door. b. The engine company Officer shall announce via handie-talkie when a hose-line attack is to commence. c. Sufficient hose-line must be stretched to cover the anticipated fire area. Members shall spread out on the hose-line at the front yard and entrance to provide for efficient advancement. d. The hose-line should be flaked out, charged and bled before entering the fire floor inside the fire building.

2. Cellar fires in private dwellings are a serious situation for firefighting forces. The first hose-line should be stretched through the main entrance to the top of the interior cellar stair. The first hose-line should not be advanced down the interior cellar stairs unless fire and stairway conditions permit for the rapid and safe descent of the hose-line. All but which of the following situations would preclude the descent of the first hose-line down the interior cellar stairs? a. High heat conditions at the top of the stairs. b. Questionable stability of the stairway. c. A second hose-line is unavailable. d. Initial size-up indicates a serious fire condition.

3. Fire Department units arrive at a cellar fire in a private dwelling. The second-to-arrive units will be severely delayed at this alarm. There is only one hose-line available at this fire and there will be a delay in applying water to the cellar through the interior of the building. Who may consider repositioning the first hose-line from the first floor into the cellar through an exterior cellar entrance? a. The Incident Commander. b. The first-to-arrive engine Officer. c. An Incident Commander who is a Chief Officer. d. All of the above.

4. A backdraft is the ignition and rapid combustion of a mixture of flammable gas or dust and air that flashes back through openings around the fire area. Which of the following are factors that influence the severity of the backdraft? a. Type of gases, their temperature, pressure and make-up. b. Size and location of the areas involved. c. Type and size of openings made by the Fire Department. d. Amount of turbulence in the building caused by the direction and velocity of the wind and hose streams directed in the building. e. All of the above.

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5. You are in command of a ladder company that has been ordered to cut a trench in the roof of a taxpayer. You would be correct to order all but which of the following? a. Make sure that a ventilation hole is cut over the fire or as close as conditions permit before cutting the trench. b. The width of the trench should be at least three feet wide. c. When using a skylight as a trenching boundary, remove the returns to aid in ventilation of the cockloft. d. Make sure the trench cut is made the full distance between two exterior walls or other firestops.

6. Extinguishing fires in taxpayer buildings is a very challenging task. Consider the following statements about engine company operations at taxpayer fires and choose the least correct statement. a. If heavy or medium fire conditions are encountered, the initial lines should be 21/2 inch. b. Supplying a sprinkler system is to be given a high priority before the establishment of the initial line. c. When compatible with fire conditions, 13/4-inch lines may be used in exposures. d. If difficulty is encountered in gaining entrance to a taxpayer fire, a small hole made in the security doors and removal of the window may provide an opening for hose stream operations.

7. Firefighting forces arrived at the fire floor of a high-rise apartment house fire. The public hallway on the fire floor was hot and heavily charged with smoke. A decision was made to force an apartment door for an area of refuge. What apartment would be the most correct location for this area of refuge? a. The apartment immediately adjacent to the fire apartment. b. The apartment directly across the hall from the fire apartment. c. The apartment across the hall from the fire apartment, toward the dead-end hallway. d. The apartment across the hall from the fire apartment, toward the stairway.

8. The collapse rescue plan has five separate stages of operations that should be carried out in order. To be thorough and certain no victims are overlooked, all five stages should be carried out under Fire Department directions and control.

Choose the answer that places the five stages of the collapse rescue plan in their proper order. a. Reconnaissance, accounting for and removal of surface victims, search of voids, selected debris removal and tunneling, general debris removal. b. Search of voids, general debris removal, reconnaissance, accounting for and removal of surface victims, selected debris (continued on page 38) removal.

WNYF 1st/2008

photos by FF Rich Hoffman

Propane Railcar Derailment in Queens

by Assistant Chief John Acerno, Queens Borough Commander

ight after the day tour began on July 6, 2007, the Fire Department was notified of a railway car derailment involving propane at Queens Box 8598 in the rear of 66-31 Otto Road in Glendale. Responding units must have been thinking about two recent similar propane railcar incidents in the same general area.

In March 2003, a propane railcar derailed near the same location, necessitating off-loading the propane, which took three days.

On January 16, 2007, there was another propane derailment near this area, where a crane had to be brought in on an adjacent track in order to repair the “truck” (wheels on the train) and then place it back on its track. The New York and Atlantic Railroad uses these tracks to transport tankers full of propane to eastern Long Island.

This neighborhood generally would be considered residential with some commercial occupancies.

In this particular incident, a seven-car train was going over a switch. The second car of the locomotive, a propane car (third position) and a flatbed car (fourth position) had all derailed as they went over the switch. All three of these cars were leaning slightly toward one side. Unfortunately, this was a very narrow right of way. If the cars did roll over, they would have impacted a commercial building about 10 feet away.

Due to the nature of the calls, the Queens dispatcher assigned Engines 286, 319 and 271, Ladders 135 and 124, Rescue 4, Squad 252, Haz-Mat 1 and Battalion 28 to the original Box at 0920 hours. Battalion Chief Tom Murphy, Battalion 28, established a Command Post, had precautionary lines stretched and began to set up tower ladders. Assistant Chief John Acerno, the Queens Borough Commander, was notified by Operations and responded, along with Deputy Chief Vincent Mandala, Division 11. Chief Acerno gave instructions via the Department radio not to move any railcars until the situation was fully evaluated.

Rescue 4 and Squad 252, along with the Haz-Mat and Safety Battalions, were tasked with making an evaluation of the situation and using their metering devices to detect any leaks. The rail personnel at the scene said the propane car was carrying a full load of 34,000 gallons of liquid propane. It still had not been odorized for commercial use, making detection difficult. The FDNY metering devices were not picking up any leaks.

There was no visible damage to the shell of the container or

R

WNYF 1st/2008

cars. Using wood shoring, Rescue and Squad members began stabilizing the cars. Ladder companies began evacuating surrounding commercial properties and a nearby playground. The engine companies stretched hose-lines with fog nozzles. Because of the long stretches, relay operations were required. As a precaution, tower ladder baskets were raised with accompanying supply lines.

The problem now was getting the cars back on the track without doing further damage to the propane car and preventing the train from toppling off the track onto the adjoining building. After consultations with the railroad, it was agreed that they would be allowed to disconnect the propane car from the remaining cars to the rear of the train. A locomotive would be brought in from the rear of the train and drag out the remaining four cars (including the flatbed car). Since only one truck of the flatbed car was derailed, they felt it would go back on the tracks by itself as it was dragged backward, which is exactly what happened.

This left the propane car and the two locomotives remaining.

The plan then was to bring in a crane and lift the propane car back onto the tracks. While this was being done, FDNY set up unmanned tower ladders and several multiversals. Haz-Mat and Squad members continued to meter the site, while the Safety Battalion monitored the entire area.

Further complicating matters, the Long Island Pipeline runs directly under the lay of these tracks. However, their representative said it is approximately four feet under the ground at this point and should not pose any additional problems.

This was a prolonged operation. Employing relay operations, unmanned large-caliber streams were set up. The summer day was hot and clear. Units were relieved at 1300 hours and again at 1800 hours. RAC Unit #4 responded. Eventually, the incident concluded after 12 hours.

Lessons learned/reinforced • Set up a Command Post as soon as possible. Many agencies (NYPD, EMS, LIRR personnel and PD, MTA PD, Buckeye Pipeline, Parks Department, OEM and NY & Atlantic RR) eventually showed up at this operation. There must be one focal point. The location of the Command Post had to be moved several times as the situation evolved. The FDNY Incident Commander should request an NYPD representative similar to

37

Heavy equipment was brought in to lift the propane car back onto the tracks.

his/her rank.

• Wind direction and weather conditions should be considered. If there was a leak, the propane gas plume--about twice as heavy as air--would hug the ground and be influenced by wind and/or FDNY’s fog streams.

• After consultation with the NYPD and OEM, an evacuation zone must be agreed upon. A leak with an accompanying ignition would be catastrophic. Since there was no leak, it was decided to evacuate a six-square-block area, shut the local subway down and shut the Pipeline down when the propane car was lifted back onto the tracks.

• Railroad personnel tend to downplay these incidents. FDNY members must remember that the Department’s mission is not to save the railroad money at the expense of civilians. As it turned out, the railroad had to ask for assistance from the Long Island Railroad. When they attempted to place the propane car back

onto the tracks, they could not do it. The rails had shifted because of the derailment; the gauge had changed. When the crane tried to lift the propane car, there was a problem with the lifting cables. Most operations like this move very slowly.

Everything must be well thought out with safety as the paramount concern.

• The Mobile Command Post was special-called since it was a prolonged operation. Additionally, the FDNY Public Information Office was asked to respond since there was media involvement.

• For security and safety reasons, FDNY must ensure the railroad is notified should it be necessary to cut any of their fences.

• Keyspan was consulted in case it was necessary to cut gas service.

• Way Bills were obtained from the railroad in order to discern whether nearby railcars “parked” in the area had any hazardous cargo.

• Battalion Chiefs should be special-called in order to supervise various geographical sectors.

Conclusion This was a long, tedious operation with much down time. The weather was debilitating. However, the potential for a disastrous event existed. As always, FDNY’s members acted in a very professional, calm manner. The results were good: The train was placed back on the tracks. There were no injuries. The neighborhood was safe once again.

About the Author...

Assistant Chief John Acerno was a 35-year veteran of the FDNY. He recently retired as the Queens Borough Commander. A prior assignment included Division Commander of Division 14. This is his second article for WNYF.

Jonas, continued from page 36

c. Reconnaissance, accounting for and removal of the surface victims, search of the voids, general rubble clearance, selected debris removal and tunneling. d. Reconnaissance, accounting for and removal of the surface victims, selected debris removal and tunneling, search of voids, general debris removal.

9. Proper portable ladder placement at fires is important for the safety of operating forces and the efficiency of operations. Consider the following statements about portable ladder placement and choose the least correct statement. a. When venting a window with a member on a ladder, place the ladder upwind from the window to be vented. The tip of the ladder, if possible, should be level with or higher than the top of the window. b. When placing a portable ladder at a roof, the tip shall be one to three feet above the roof or parapet. c. When placed against a fire escape, the tip shall be slightly above the fire escape railing. d. When placed at a window, the tip shall be level with the windowsill.

10. Whenever Firefighters operate at fires, all operations should be performed in the safest possible fashion.

Generally, what is the preferential order for removal of people from a fire building? a. Interior stairs, fire escapes, ladders, horizontal exits, lifesaving rope.

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Answer Key 1. Answer is D. (FFP Private Dwellings, Ch. 3, 1.5) 2. Answer is C. (FFP Private Dwellings, Ch. 3, 2.7.2) 3. Answer is C. (FFP Private Dwellings, Ch. 3, 2.7.4) 4. Answer is E. (FFP Taxpayers, 4.4.1) 5. Answer is C. (FFP Taxpayers, 5.4.8) 6. Answer is B. (FFP Taxpayers, 7.1.4) 7. Answer is A. (FFP Multiple Dwellings, 6.1.4) 8. Answer is A. (FFP Collapse Operations, 11.1) 9. Answer is B. (FFP Portable Ladders, 8.5) 10. Answer is D. (FFP Aerial Ladders, 6.7)

b. Fire escapes, ladders, interior stairs, horizontal exits, lifesaving rope. c. Ladders, fire escapes, interior stairs, horizontal exits, lifesaving rope. d. Interior stairs, horizontal exits, fire escapes, ladders, lifesaving rope.

About the Author...

Deputy Chief John A. Jonas is a 28-year veteran of the FDNY. He is assigned to Division 7. As a Battalion Chief, he was assigned to Battalion 2.

Previous assignments include Ladder 6, Ladder 11, Rescue 3, Ladder 27 and Engine 46. He holds an AAS degree in Fire Protection Technology from Orange County Community College and a BS degree in Fire Administration from Empire State College. He is a regular contributor to WNYF and authors the Students’ Corner.

WNYF 1st/2008

All Hands 1st Division

by FF Steven Gonzalez, L-3 Greetings to all in the 1st Division…Our thoughts and prayers are extended to the family and friends of Lieutenant John Martinson, who made the Supreme Sacrifice on January 3, 2008...As always, our thoughts and prayers go out to all of the members of our armed forces fighting overseas. Their bravery over there keeps us safe and free over here!...Fort Pitt, E15/L-18/Bn-4: Congrats on recent promotions to Lieutenants Phil “cake-baker” Polemeni and Phil “calendar boy” Hirt. We will miss your master baking skills, Phil (the first Phil). Best of luck to Lieutenant Chris Williamson, who has been promoted to Captain...Fort Pitt welcomes new members to the house: E-15 Tommy “sir mix-a-lot” Lopez, who can cook! Congrats on the new baby, Tommy!

Welcome Furhan “everybody must go!” Ahmad L-18...Welcome back Seabiscuit from the BioPod...

With the fat-off in full swing, it looks like E-15’s “diamond” Ray Desimone has dropped a whopping 20 pounds! He planned on gaining it all back in one night at the annual Fort Pitt Steak Night, November 29, 2007. Other contenders, such as E-15’s Tom Mitchell, plan on losing most of the weight the week of the weigh-in. E-15’s Ivan “Morty” Albert and Dan “the doctor” Gardner claim that they will beat L-18’s Harry Houdini, last year’s winner. E-15’s Jimmy “toxic avenger” Trainor is also a surprise contender and is extremely polite these days...2008 at the Pitt is shaping up to be a good one with senior man, L-18’s Sean “McKraken” Kissane hanging around a while longer...L-18’s Gary “cow head” Bulger certainly will continue to rattle E-15’s Rich “ski” Wisneiwski in the kitchen. “Ski” blames the invisible man for crashing the rig...Bn-4’s senior Aide Bob ET/“hipshot” Johnson swears aliens will be landing soon...Farewell and good retirement to Bn-4’s Tony “mongo” Delillo. Card games aren’t the same without you, Mongo...Welcome to George “twitch” Laplace, former L-11 to Bn-4, to fill the open spot...Bn-4 and former E-15 Nate “bok choy” Chin will be added to the Bn-4 Aide roster this year.

Do you know Nate? Best of luck to all who have come and gone...From Little Italy, E-55: A hearty pirate’s “aaarggh” from Studio 55. A lot has happened since we last checked in...First and foremost, we bid farewell to two stellar members of E-55.

Lieutenant Jimmy “31” Schade will be sorely missed as he majestically limps off into retirement.

His sense of humor and fire knowledge will be hard to replace, as well as his cat-like reflexes and “vocal” passion on the softball field. Good luck, God bless and see you soon. The second member to take the retirement leap is the consummate senior man, Kevin J. Erdman. Kevin led by example through words and action. If size-up begins with the commute to work, Kevin put his 21/2 hours to good use.

His hands-on approach and knowledge of the area have helped many a junior man. Kevin will be missed and his size 81/2 shoes will be tough to fill...

In 55’s math, 6 + 17 = cranky...Next year’s softball jerseys will be sponsored by Chico’s Bail Bonds...

Welcome to FF Chris “Rusty” Russell and, “no,” there are no all-night flip-flop shops in Manhattan...

Congrats to FF Geraghty on number two, a healthy baby, Fiona. On the next Maury, “Babies having Babies,” with FF Posthumus and wife, Christine, on the birth of bouncing baby oodle, Nathaniel...

WNYF 1st/2008

Welcome to Lieutenant Bradley on being accepted to his “safety school,” E-55...Funny how the closer Lieutenant Urkonis comes to being made, the more often he says, “Hey, the Captain gets hooked up for that.”...FF Acciarito lost another heartbreaker. He had the under, but it’s over...E-55 is very confused with having two Captains; they’re not sure which one is going to show up...By FF Steve Gough’s “logic,” is tapping out on Christmas Eve okay because it is not a holiday?...Congrats to FF Speciale on being new union delegate. We’ve been without one since FF “everyday” Erdman...

Congrats to FF Navarra on getting the spot at Bn-2.

Apologies to E-24/L-5 on FF Navarra getting the spot at Bn-2...E-55 is looking forward to a rematch and taking odds on a cranky Captain rematch. Both participants are nervous about who Acch picks...On a serious note to E-24/L-5, in the wake of the Deutsch Bank fire, you’ve handled yourselves like professionals, with grace and class. We’re proud to ride alongside you. God bless Bobby. God bless Joey...From Hell’s Hundred Acres: L-20 congratulates Lieutenant Matty Boy Scout O’Hanlon on his promotion to Captain. We finally can use garlic again...20 Truck also congratulates FFs Bruce “binoculars” Beschner and Mike “Corky” Grace on their promotions to Lieutenant. Special thanks to Lieutenant Grace on no longer being the job’s shortest truckie and also on becoming the job’s shortest boss...A very special thank you to E-1 and E-66 on their donations. Please don’t do us any more favors...A big welcome to Lieutenant Fred “is that you, Carl” Martell, the fresh-off-probation FF Braden Forrey and FF Carl “Mrs. Martell” Paccio...Hey, Billy, who’s got the tiller?...Someone please tell FFs Randy Regan and Cassidy the difference between an inward- and outward-opening door...Condolences to FF Cecero for failing to get Crazy Glue as a commissary item...Long live Captain Softee...Huge congratulations are in order for Lieutenant Hank Banker on his retirement. His kindness, knowledge and enthusiasm always will be missed!...From L-3, Recon: Our thoughts and prayers are with FF Ian “colonel” Seagriff, who is in Afghanistan, fighting for our freedom...Welcome

to FF Steve Boyle on his transfer into Recon...

Congrats go out to FF Frankie “alphabets” Abbatemarco on his promotion to Lieutenant.

Thanks for having a cup of coffee with us and hey, Frankie, we will be sure to send along a baby rattle for you...Welcome to Lieutenant O’Connor on his recent transfer into Recon from Sweet 14...L-3 wishes Captain Bierster E-5 all the best on his promotion to Battalion Chief and the best of luck at the Boro. We know the boys at E-5 meant to write something; it’s just that they’re too busy drilling on that foam Golden Goose rig...Hey, E-14, how’s the revision of the Recon song going? You should use your leisure time for far better pursuits...FF Sean “mini Jimmy” Tinerino is the newest RN. His specialty will be taking care of anyone who will let him ...Recon is definitely not a big fan of the Laverne and Shirley Show, since we live it everyday...Sluggo or SOS, who wanted it more and did the better man really win?...FF Matt Getz seems to think he has a hotline to DSCO, at midnight, excuse me...FF Brian Giessler just doesn’t seem to be the mountain man type; he’s a City boy at heart, but best of luck in the new house...FF Rich “wha’ happun’” Leonard has taken up a spot in Bn-6 and then some. Sorry, again, Bernie...FF Jerry Perillo, ah never mind...FF Jay “the door man” Dorry is, pound for pound, the meanest guy in Recon...FF Chris Doc Holliday Tighe is my hero, period. Just wanted to say that...

From E-28/L-11: First, congratulations to our newly promoted Lieutenants--Steve Eagers and James “where are my keys” Sparrow...Congrats also to newly promoted Captains Chuck Demartini and Wayman Iriarte...Congrats to Anthony Kotowicz, Rob Cherry and Bill Gates on becoming new papas ...Second Street welcomes new Lieutenants Vinny Massa and Chris Delgiorno...Welcome to new Probies Jim “I know it all” Amberger, Rich Varela and Michael Mullin...Second Street thanks Paddy BFD Higgins for the early relief...Good job, Mike Tansey...Steven Schwarz lost his Jeopardy title, which was no reason to take it out on the car...

Steve “we need more men” Liozzi, calm down...

Scott Pedersen, hope to see you soon. Gary Elder still wants option “C”...From the Ten House: The

The Old Quarters--Eagle Ladder Company No. 4

by Honorary Battalion Chief Frederick B. Melahn, Jr.

he Volunteer Fire Department in New York City in 1772 had seven engine companies in service that were supplied by pails of water. Each household was required to have two leather pails so people could form a bucket brigade at a fire.

There was a need for ladders to reach rooftops that went on fire. The ladder truck also could carry extra water pails and other firefighting tools.

The first ladder company--Mutual Ladder 1--was put in service on July 10, 1772, at Fair and King Streets. Ten years later in 1782, Ladder Company 2, which was given no name, was organized at Chambers and Centre Streets. The third company in 1804 was Eagle Ladder Phoenix Ladder Company Company 4 at 20 3, which was located at Eldridge Street in Greenwich and Barrow 1860.

Streets. Eagle Ladder

T

Mand Library photo

Company No. 4 was organized on October 21, 1811, and was located at Chatham Square.

Subsequently, it was relocated to a new firehouse in 1840 on Eldridge Street, near Walker Street (pictured). It was a two-story brick structure and measured 25 by 80 feet.

The ladder truck of Eagle Company 4 was a simple frame with four wheels, was pulled by hand and had extra water pails, firefighting tools and ground ladders, some of which folded. Eagle Ladder Company 4 occupied the The old quarters at firehouse at 20 Eldridge 20 Eldridge Street Street from 1840 to 1864, when the company was dis- now houses a jewelry designer/manubanded. Today, the old quarters is used by a com- facturer. photo by Honorary pany that designs and manBattalion Chief ufactures jewelry.

Frederick B. Melahn, Jr.

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Officers and members congratulate Captain Pete Bosco on reaching 26 years of dedicated service to the FDNY. You are still our Captain...Welcome to our two new Probies Robert “fava beans” Favata E-10 and Sean “smacks” McGoldrick L-10...

Congrats to Mitch Castiglione on his recent marriage. He’s your problem now, Barbara!...Good luck and good riddance to Danny “powder” Cavanaugh on his transfer to L-27. L-10’s loss is L-27’s gain.

Our junior men will miss your lead by example attitude...E-34/L-21, Hell’s Kitchen: It’s been awhile and all hell’s broken loose...Congratulations to Chief Ritchie, I mean Captain, “one test at a time.”...

Jimmy “get your shine box” Shannon gives it the old college try and makes it. Good luck. May your new house never run into evil Shanny...We wish the best of luck to Tango and Cash--Jim “triage of vegetables” McNally and Bob “hoo-yah” Watson on their promotions to Fire Marshal. With this dynamic duo on the case, they’ll find the third shooter on the grassy knoll...On a sad note, E-34 senior man, Kevin “get that cough checked” Meehan is taking a temporary detail in hopes of finding greener pastures and maybe a pot of gold at the end of his rainbow...

The Kitchen bids farewell to Brian “hit it yourself” Drury. Hope L-158 has a spill-proof pot. Let the stirring begin...Denis “the quantifier” Sweeney runs to E-81 while they all were just standing there.

Hope you didn’t forget your grade school math books...Ryan “Lieutenant vollie” Traina heads out to Woodside, L-163...A couple of members decided to cross the floor--Al “crash test dummy” Salce and Paul “yo, paprika” Bonacci felt the calling of the dark force from the Truck. Let the hate continue ...Two refugees from 20 Truck join the ranks in Hell; Chung “you been here four hours, you go now” Ko and John “the shut-off value is through the tile” Mongo (x-ray vision optional)...Congrats to Lieutenant Kerry for getting the spot in E-34. We just have to figure out how to stop him from talking so much...Congrats to G- “now I drive, what do you do” Rod and John “rat killer” Murray on getting the seats in E-34...Welcome to Probies Andrew “we don’t know how you passed the psych” Sinclair; Mike “the cook, no clean” Sheridan (now the kitchen has a “chef”); John Marsh-Mola, the Rock called, you need to do your annual pull-up; and Franklin “wish we could understand you, ESL” Uceta...Nice job, Omar, Drury, Chef and Traina on the company picnic...Thanks to Chuck the Duke Szoke, G-Rod (who passed the torch) for running with the Christmas party, “Chef” and all the members who helped with the cooking in Hell’s Kitchen during the 6x for a great Christmas party.

Thanks, Rob “que se Joda” Sharp for getting the sauce! Special thanks go out to Noel Griffin for a great Santa. Only half of the kids cried...There must be something in the Kool-Aid. Congrats on the new arrivals in the Kitchen. First-Timers: Lieutenant Wasserman on his daughter, Kayla; Billy “can’t hold on to the rope swing” MacSweeney on his daughter, Ella Rose; Jeff “yo, listen” Lebron on his daughter, Alejandra; and Adam “el gato” Torres on his son, Aidan Joseph. Second-Timers: Al “crash test dummy” Salce on his daughter, Emily Rae, and Joey “fun bags” Puca, expecting his second. Thirdtimers: Captain Ritchie on his son, Christopher Joseph, future Chief of Department, and Keith “Omar” Newell on his daughter, Addison Marie...

Best wishes to Nord Kidwell and Stephanie. We had a great time at your wedding. You avoided the Irish good-byes by sticking us on a boat! Where were the life rafts?...Good job goes out to Mike “the slayer” Brannan for the house party at Whistling Dixie’s.

Next time, we’ll invite some ladies...G-Rod, the apple-picking was fun. Thanks for the invite. Next time you need a pool table moved, invite more Engine guys...Hats off to Noel Griffin on complet-

40

ing a 50-mile run in 10+ hours and Denis “the quantifier” Sweeney on placing second with the FDNY running team at both the 2006 and 2007 NYC Marathon...The neighborhood is changing; everyday, a new building is popping up...L-21 welcomes back its old-new rig. Don’t touch the paint. Pink lockers are in this year, but you have to order early before paint runs out. We’re also making accommodations for deserving members who are looking for duplex lockers or lockers with a view of the Lincoln Tunnel ...Adam “the carpenter” Torres, thank you for the wall of shame. It’s looking good so far. Hopefully, we’ll still be members when our pictures go up...

Anyone in the Department looking for a spice rack, TPR holder or magazine rack, contact Paul “yo, paprika” Bonacci L-21. Supplies are limited...

We’re looking forward to The King of the Ice 2008.

The team looks hopeful...The Hunter Mountain Ski Races, where we expect to improve our fifth-place finish or our first-place finish, if you use G-Rod’s calculations, and a return of the boys’ night out “Bowling at the Bus Terminal,” shot-put no longer allowed. The basketball team let go of their manager and now they are 8-1. Hmm, I wonder why?

3rd Division

by FF Doug Anderson, L-2 E-8/L-2/Bn-8: The New Year begins on 51st Street with some atta boys going out for the Christmas parties. John Phillips comes through once again, organizing the Boys’ Night Out and Kenny Noury did a great job taking care of the kiddies with the family Christmas party. But, Kenny, everybody was wondering why we didn’t get any free iced tea...Rumor has been circulating that the only way to get a firstdue nozzle job at a fourth alarm in E-8 is to transfer ...Tilves to the halo room...A farewell goes out to Captain Davey. Thanks for all your work during your time in L-2. His departure makes room for Captain Harrison to take the helm. Welcome aboard...Congrats to the New York Giants on their improbable run through the playoffs and Super Bowl victory. Don’t worry, Jets fans, someday your chance will come. You may not live to see it, but someday...

E-21: The Club’s tv room is freshly painted and looks great, thanks to Phil Carrube and Frank Bendana. Now if we only had a tv that works...

Congrats to Mikey “old school coffee can” Byrne on the shortest “soda guy” tenure in FDNY history...

How would you feel if you paid big money to go see the Giants in the Super Bowl, went all the way to Arizona and when you got there, a guy named Bone (wearing a 1985 Carl Banks jersey) head-butted you all game?...Welcome to Proby Anthony Ciappa.

Now go get your shine box...Hey, Tom-Tom, how does the proby manage to get to work on time?...

Why does Zak “guitar hero” Vause suddenly have carpal tunnel syndrome?...Why is “Motts” in the firehouse more often now than when he worked here?...Finally, the Club would like to wish a happy retirement to Lieutenant Larry Montrose. Stay low, Jocko!...E-65: Atta boys all around to the crew who worked on New Year’s Eve and cooked up 30 pounds of chicken cutlets for some 70 plus civil servants who passed through. And, they were drilling after midnight! Many thanks to the Fire Marshals for security and the boys from Field Comm for some tasty Brooklyn nosh. We actually were able to persuade the folks across the street at the CUNY Ophthalmology School (thanks to Tommy “oneman Engine” Bendick) to allow for all the EMS and Hammer Teams, as well as many FDNY Brass, to muster in their auditorium and go over “ball-drop” operations. It has gotten that large...Congrats to FF

Dear Chief Cassano, On behalf of my father, Battalion Chief William Eisenhardt, Senior (retired), sister, brother and myself, I would like to express our appreciation to you and the FDNY for honoring my father on the occasion of his 100th birthday.

Your response to my letter in January (2007) went far beyond anything I could have imagined.

Special thanks are due to Captain Peter Tronolone for his efforts in coordinating the response. Also, to Captain Tom Venditto Engine 54 and Lieutenant Bob Jackson (retired) for attending the celebration and making the presentations. My father enjoyed meeting them and discussing the changes in the FDNY since he retired. Thanks to all those others from units my father served in who responded with letters, plaques, caps, shoulder patches, shirts and the copies of the orders reflecting the dates of my father’s promotions.

It is easy to see why my father so loved his career in the FDNY and has such fond memories.

Again, our sincere thanks for making a wonderful occasion even more special and memorable.

Very truly yours, Bill Eisenhardt, Jr. John Paul Rosselli on his recent marriage. Married on a Saturday, up and down on Monday; rock stars, we Firemen...FF Santos from L-2 needs to drop off some more $5 DVDs; we have yet to watch the first 15, but at least he knocks on the door with his elbows when he comes by and parks on 43rd Street ...Congrats to FF Maher on passing the Port Authority written test. “They needed people to take up some empty seats and I wasn’t doin’ nuthin.

Besides I got to take it for free.” No Firefighter passes up a free-o...Junior man “nacho” Flores says, “New Year’s is for single guys, which means we don’t work that night.”...The higher intellect of Proby Zaffino is too vast for the firehouse kitchen...

E-40/L-35: The Jimmy Giberson Christmas party had a great turnout. Thanks to all for coming and thank you to all the members for helping, especially Anthony Rucco L-35 for his hard work...Congrats to Brendan Flynn L-35 on being promoted. Now you really can tell people what to do, little Toby!...

Da Butler E-40 2-0; Viola Stein L-35 0-2...

Anybody need a tax guy, come see Shields E-40.

Anybody need a loan, see Mike “money bags” Cruise L-35...Congrats to the E-40/L-35 dodge ball champs 2007! You guys played smurfy!...Lieutenant Maguire L-35 probably never will bring in an apple pie to the firehouse again, thanks to Altadonna E-40 ...Kessler L-35 tried out for American Gladiators and was stumped on the personality questions...

Anybody needs Kevin Thomas E-40 to work, please contact his wife, Tracy...Sadly, we lost a good friend this past year in Vic Navarra L-35. Thank you for being a part of our lives and all you did for us. You will be missed, Vic!...E-54/L-4/Bn-9: Greetings from the Pride of Midtown...Congrats to FF Steve “best life ever” Closs on his promotion to Lieutenant. Our loss will be someone else’s sweaty snoring gain...We forgot to welcome Lieutenant Cliff Woods to E-54 and congratulate him on the spot. Sorry for the oversight. Guess we just didn’t see you standing there...

E-54 welcomes its two new Probies FFs James “I don’t have a hook” Hollywood and Kyle “smelty” Kelty...L-4 has stolen FFs Scott Hickey and Patrice “I’ll take the detail” McLeod from the engine to raise the average height of their members. Good luck, guys...Bn-9 welcomes Chief Tom Meara for a little while. Who says you can’t go home?...Great job goes out to FF Brian “love” Loveridge on having everyone over during the funeral and making the best of a dark day...FF Anthony Auletta is still on hold, trying to get through to WFAN. Hey, Tony, don’t you realize they won’t take your calls anymore?...Welcome back, FF Andrew “sporty”

WNYF 1st/2008

WNYF 1st/2008

me” Ellsworth and Anthony 50 Cent Perrone for completing probation...Put the PS3 controller down, Fox, and get into the job!...Good luck to Captain Ravioli, who has been hitting the books hard...For those of you looking to cope with massive hair loss and severe receding hairlines, check out www.BillyCupo .cooooooooom!...E76/L-22/Bn-11: On December 11, 2007, trucks loaded with gifts for the thousands of children Welcome to new still affected by Hurricane Katrina rolled into Jackson and Harrison Counties Probies Adam in Mississippi. The Penske Truck Company donated seven trucks that were Samoldulski (not so filled with toys and tons of supplies. The next day, the Brothers arrived in new), Chris “the Daphne, Alabama, where they met up with 10 additional Firefighters who flew flash” DeLuca and down to assist with unloading and distributing the toys. During the trip south to James Lafferty...

Gulfport, Moss Point and Biloxi, Mississippi, and New Orleans, the Firefighters Welcome back to were escorted and assisted by the Fire Departments from Daphne and Mobile, Lieutenant Mike Alabama, and Franklin Creek, Pascagoula and Moss Point, Mississippi, as well Gallagher...Best as the U.S. Marines from the Toys for Tots program. wishes to Lieutenant This is the fifth trip for Lieutenant Tom O’Connor and his elves and the first Vinny Cartafalsa. time they stayed and helped with the distribution of the toys. It was a great Thanks...Bn-11 welexperience to bring some joy to the children. Some children and their families comes Battalion waited up to four hours to receive one toy per child. For some of these children, Chief Mike Burke that was the only toy they received for Christmas. The Brothers distributed and the team of approximately 4000 toys and donated another 3000 to the Marines for their Battalion Chief Toys for Tots program. Much of the supplies (fruit juice, water, etc.) was given Kerry Stephen/Mike to the Jackson County Civic Action Complex. “low profile” Cogan Most of these FDNY volunteers either worked in or retired from E-53/L-43. ...Bn-11 also welThanks go out to the following Brothers: Tom O’Connor, Jimmy Leonard, Kirk comes Battalion Lester, Paddy O’Connor, Kerry Hollywood, Jimmy Lanza, Marty O’Neill, Jon Chief Jake “the Miller, Gary Moore, Shelly Barocas, Dennis Ruckdeshel, Tom Hosford, Larry ghost” LaMonda...L- Reilly, Jack Culkin, Joe Roemer, Johnny Colon, Joe DiPietro, Pat Smith, John 22 welcomes James MacAleese, Richie Leonard (E-91), Richie O’Leary (L-126), Tom Ryan (L-155) “moon man” and Frank Carino (E-39).

Mooney, thanks to Special thanks to Frank Siller, The Siller Foundation and Let Us Do Good fine recruiting by Will Children’s Foundation; Charles Green, Gulf Coast Coordinator; Bethesda “bird” Ehni...

Missions, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania; Hampton Inn, Daphne, Alabama; Beau Congratulations to Rivage Hotel, Biloxi, Mississippi; Charles Schreier, Liberty Mutual Life John Malley on his Insurance; Anne Marie Principe, Books for Children; and Bob Mahoney, Mary promotion to Fire Mahoney’s Restaurant, Biloxi, Mississippi.

Marshal...

He brought lobsters for dinner; enough for everyone Congratulations to Chiefs Gerry Wren, Mike ...E-91: Welcome new members Terrance McPartland and Jim “big daddy” Riches on proAlexander and Bill Meeks to the Ship. Rest assured, motions to Deputy Chief. When did you guys have there’s no way you could be worse Probies than time to study?...Good luck on retirement to Bobby Jorge Paz...Congrats to UFC wannabes, Stewey, Pyne. Bring Superdave with you when you come Hick and Small Man. You guys really look alright... back to visit...Best wishes to the newly married Tom Many thanks to E-47, E-37 and L-40 for a great Walsh, Lieutenant Tim Ginley, Matt Bernstein (is dodge ball tourney. Congrats to the winners and all it true your new mother-in-law hates the Yankees?), participants, but watch out, cheaters. (You know who E.J. Bradley, Nicky “clams” Lobosco and Charlie you are. They say revenge is a dish best served Cambron...The house offers congratulations on the above 116th Street.)...E-91 wishes Ryan McFadden new additions to the families of Lieutenant Rob an easy recovery and looks forward to his return... “cool breeze” O’Brien, Lieutenant Tim Ginley Best of luck to Shorty at HQ. Cook ‘em good meals (nice job on the office), E.J. Bradley, right back in and if the spy-cam says Moishe is bringing the Chief the saddle for number 2, Charlie Cambron, Kevin for dinner, give us a heads-up.

Gorman and Rich Banaciski...In the dropping like flies department are the newly engaged Bobby “the fish” Fischer, John “OMD” Darcy, Chris Popeye, 6th Division the sailor Fitzsimmons and Brian Wilbur (apparby FF Jim McCarthy, L-55 ently breaking back into prison)...Thanks to FFs Bernstein E-76 and Wendell E-37 on the 3rd annual It’s been a while, so here we go...The Big House dodge ball tournament. It was another huge success centennial was a great success. Thanks to all the ...Hey, Lieutenant Meehan, your tv is in...Phone members who worked hard to make it one to rememcall for Kevin Mitchell. It’s the real Chief ber...The Howie golf outing was also great. Thanks Holzmaier...Brian Fitzpatrick did not fare too well to Tommy Dutton...Congrats to senior man John in his battle with the tower ladder, but he was fightMcGonigle on his 25th year with the FDNY...Atta ing out of his weight class...Jerry Scaringe has purboy to FF Dave Giambalvo for making a grab at chased a new LoJack tracking device--for his bass...

818 Home Street. Hope to see him standing on Finally, a belated Merry Christmas to Joe blocks at City Hall...Changing of the guard includes Camastro. We know you’re sorry you couldn’t be FF Mike Murray leaving as the czar with a new there. We missed you, especially Pat McElvaney. truck. FF Jeff Nevitt coming in seems a little over-

41

photo by FF Jack Culkin (retired)

Sforza. Be more careful next time you’re climbing down overpasses...Congratulations go out to FF Bill “girth” Wilson on his retirement. You truly made this place special and it was both an honor and pleasure for us to be able to work with you. Now, remember, chauffeur boots are not made for walking around at your new job. Hey, Billy, one more thing, stick yer head out!...E-22/L-13/Bn-10: Yorkville congratulates Lieutenant Bill “flobie” McGovern on getting the spot in 13 Truck...E-22 welcomes new Proby Dan Hulk Hogan into the ring. The Hulkster joins Fat Joe McNamara in the heavyweight division, by gaining 20 lbs. in Proby School. Little Joe Mac has since dropped to a lower weight class by beating himself in the one-man fat-off. (Harry “the mush” Opfer had the under)...Another great turnout for this year’s “manly” party. Thanks to Key Food for supplying the entertainment and the lunch meat...

Godspeed to Pete South Beach Zaccariello, after crashing his Scion on the Massachusetts Turnpike, en route to Staten Island...Congrats go out to L-13 for beating E-22 in this year’s truck-engine softball game, which would not have been possible if not for Lieutenant “Emmitt” Allen’s rules...Question for Richie Ba- “nap.” Do you wear those white sneakers to bed? We guess only Monte would know.

Who’s Oscar and who’s Felix?...Although this year’s dodge ball tourney only brought one win to the Yorkville Elvis, Joe “fat Elvis” Goulden managed to outdo his stellar performance from last year.

Hopefully, he was able to hold down all those peanut butter and banana sandwiches...Thanks to all members for making this year’s Christmas party a huge success...E-39/L-16: Greetings from Manhattan’s Upper East Side. A lot has happened during the past few months...Let’s start with thanking Kenny Ruane for another great job on 39/16’s promotion and retirement party...We wish all the best to Joe “you talkin’ to me?” Flaherty E-39 and Greg “smooth” Seda E-39 on their retirements...We welcome new additions to the house: Erik Heym from L-134 (we appreciate you forwarding his brain, Brothers) and new Probies assigned to E-39--John “the rod” Rodriguez, Mike “the chef/ the plumber” O’Connor and Mike “this job’s not too hard” Seluzitsky...The stork has dropped off two new babies--James and Maria Efthimiades had a baby boy, Demetrious, and Joe and Erin Schlereth had a baby boy, Jake...Two more guys are walking the plank. Congrats to Pat Connolly on his engagement to Kristen and Mikey K on his engagement to Danielle...Thank you to all the present and former members who came out to Cesar Perez’s E-39 going-away party. Please keep Cesar in your prayers while he is deployed to Afghanistan for the next 14 months...L-16 wishes Liam “snuffaluffagus, 10-20, the turtle” Carroll all the best on his transfer to E39. Your enthusiasm and high intensity will be greatly missed...But not to fear, as Mike The Riddler Flanagan has crossed the floor (did cousin Kenny help with that?) and will attempt to bring that energy back. Mike’s inquisitive nature and ability to ask the same question 100 different ways has caused one of our Officers to pull his paper. Lieutenant Mancuso, say it ain’t so! We will send your little “furry” friend to follow you, wherever you may land, heavy duty...

Bang, bang...A long overdue welcome to Lieutenant Bronx Bob McGrath. The members of E-39 and L16 thank Lieutenant McGrath for teaching us all about the Bronx, er, the job that is. He also has taught many of us the importance of public relations ...And, in closing, to L-151, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house when we heard the heart-breaking news that we were losing the Big Bopper or, as you like to call him, “C-Block.”...E-44: Best of luck to Ed “Mr. 44” Kennedy on his all-too-soon retirement.

You’ve left some pretty big shoes to fill, Eddie, and you will be sorely missed...Congrats to Matt “feed

Tietjen football game. A great time was had by all. Eddie Tietjen would be proud. Next atta boy--a little overdue-goes to Bevan for the great job he did on the Dave Romero shirts. The shirts say it all about Dave. Lastly, an atta boy to all those who prepared and planned the Christmas party for the kids. A good time was had by all...New baby for Mulhall; congrats. By the way, Billy, you’ll do anything to get out of LCC School...

Congratulations go to Jimmy Guidice on being elected engine delegate by one Captain Jack Houlahan E-80 celebrates 30 years on the job vote...A big thanks and good luck to with all his “babies,” none of whom was born when he started Straub after stepping down from the with FDNY. post after many years of dedicated service for the members...E-96/L-54 express whelmed...FFs Dave Giambalvo and Fred DeVito our deepest sympathy to the family of Lieutenant out as t-shirt guys. It was great having them get the John Martinson...Congratulations to Brian Christmas order in at Easter. FFs Chris Vogt and Sullivan on his promotion to Marshal...Nice work Joe Seiter taking over more than the t-shirts. Could

by Marty Spider Man Stiebel, Mike Decollibus, there be an assessment in the future?...A neighbor Brooks Roberts and Mike Destefano, protecting stopped by the firehouse recently and gave us a dog. life at recent jobs...Great job on the Christmas party We named him Terry and, unlike the other one, he

by Matt Bland... Hey, Lieutenant Bubba, Gotta go listens...Good luck to FFs Jason Fernandez and to Mo’s?...And yes, Roberts was right, he does have Khalid Sabater getting off probation...Welcome more time than Vince “Von” Egbert...Three conaboard to FF Andy Tranchina from E-82 to L-31... tenders left in the “Johnny of the Month Contest”-New Probies to the Big House are FF Kevin Moore and Ferris in the lead; Sanguilo trailing by Bellingham to E-82 and FFs Daniel Abramowski an ear...Pete “is it ready” Violetti, the blood work and Hugh Barr to L-31...Happy New Year from results are back from Jacobi and they are negative Camp Morris!...E-92/L-44/Bn-17 prayers and well this time. Stay away from the clam knife!...J. Burke wishes go out to Brian “99” Smith L-44 and his still wondering who took his key?...Details as folfamily, as he continues on the road to a complete lows: Steve “Jack, Jr.” Caglione to the 3rd recovery! Get well soon, Smitty. The firehouse just Battalion, John Tonner and Tony Jack LaLanne ain’t the same without ya! On behalf of the Smith Delgado to the Rock and Dalai Lama to R&D... family and the entire house, we would like to thank Greetings from the Green Berets or should we say, all the companies who helped us out during our time Turkey Bowl champs?...Welcome to Probies of need. You guys exemplify the brotherhood of this Santillan “Fez” and Aliamo, both L-17...Congrats great job!...Congratulations to John “Dusty” to Tom Gayer L-17, promoted to Lieutenant. We Tufano E-92 on the birth of his daughter and to need some things in the commissary. Can you come Mark “confeit” Grillo E-92 on his recent engageback? Please...Congrats to “the Barry” Schmidt Ement...Welcome Don Gleason to E-92 from E-72...

60 family on their new addition. The baby already Great job by Matty Eberhart E-92 on the firehouse has spoken more than Gary/Bill/ Barry?...We all and couples Christmas parties...Good luck to Timmy know Will “da beast” Greenberg L-17 has plenty “mit muron” Norum L-44 on his move from of body to share, but honestly, well done on the Jerusalem to Pearl River...Great time had by all at donation, lad...Great job by all, as usual, for this the first annual Engine vs. Truck Hockey Game. Eyear’s Christmas party...The AC golf trip also was 92 won by a score of 5-3 with the final goal scored well-run, as always, by Steve “white rhino” Pitz Lby Mike “blades of glory” Pattwell E-92...Congrats 17...Ellery Liburd E-60 and Greg Dicembri L-17, to Todd Velten L-44, the skinniest guy in the house, be strong, be alert and be swift in your safe return winning the fat-off...Job well-done by Adam Deer from Iraq...Prospect Avenue welcomes new Proby Hunter Licardi E-92 on his completion of ECC Tom “duck scrubber” Herrick, the good Coast School and his first job pumping. Don’t worry, Joe Guard guy to E-73...Good job by all on the D, your time will come...Hey, Hagan, you wanna Christmas play, seniors’ luncheon and Cuz’s kid’s smell Kappel’s hood?...Best of luck to Mike hospital gift run...Good time had by all at the Pattwell on his transfer to L-44...Vinegar Hill conChristmas party and the old-timers’ Christmas party gratulates: Dom Vincenti E-80 on his big finish at ... Congratulations on babies to Ryan Daley and the Turkey Trot and his new “1-6-ALPHA” status.

Steve “mouth” Rizzuto. And, by the way, Rizzuto, You make us all proud! Jimmy McGuinness L-23 zip it...Welcome back to Nick “the nut” Liso, not to on his office of elderly men (OEM) transfer. be confused with Lawton’s nut...Congrats to John Captain Jack “the big toe” Houlahan E-80 on 30 “Stutine” Hotline and the love of his life, Heather, years of service and now his baby-sitting duties. on their engagement...A get-well goes out to pirate Lieutenant Richie Davan L-23 for finally getting Pete Carey and Joe “shake a leg” Wiley...Mister his third day...A big Hulkamaniac shout out to thin skin would like to thank Dave Gonzalez for Anthony “double A” Abbatemarco E-80 on his taking his detail to City Island...Ben Webster American Gladiator appearance...Matty “sudsy the Pichardo, just because you’re naked when you lifeguard” Crowley L-23 now is giving swimming wrestle doesn’t mean you’re winning...Joe lessons...Good luck to all our fat-off contestants!

Pietrofere says, “fix your own flat tire.”...Denis Now who will win the fat-on?...E-80 welcomes new McLaughlin, why does your picture have a white members Scott LaPiedra, Tom “not” Furlong, oval frame with a lid?...Greetings from the Harlem Tom “not Furlong” Long (that’s not a typo) and Zoo...Welcome to new Probies Dan Walsh and Brady Wehrum...And, most importantly, where’s that other guy?...Congratulations to all the Lieutenant “Johnny nice guy” Martinson E-249 guys who went to Chicago and came back. All who and former member of Vinegar Hill, we love you, didn’t go out there admire Rocky’s patience. Hey, we miss you and you are forever in our hearts! Our John Moran, you left something on the street out condolences go out to the Martinson family on their there and on the walls or did someone break into recent loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with them your room to do that?...Slow down, Danny Hayes. ...As always, God bless our troops...E-94/L-48: A How did they take those vans back? And where’s the couple of atta boys--First, Nugent, a great job on the

42

grill?...Thanks go out to Brian Jablonski for organizing our dodge ball team. We would have preferred not to see the pictures that went along with the evening, but thanks all the same, Brian...

Congratulations and good luck to new Lieutenant Brian Gavan! The Gav is gone. All hail the Gav! ...Hey, Nick Foley, how come you can’t bring Father Chris his meal?...Harlem Zoo Basketball; insert comment here...Has anyone seen where Ralph Holguin’s been hanging around at the Rock?...Get over it, Joey Parm, it’s just an upset stomach, ya big dope. Hope your hospital stay went well...Hey, Jack, where’s your hat? Maybe you left it two doors down ...Johnnies, please leave Eddie alone!...Jason “soul mate” Pants off, we hope you remain the ladderclimbing champ for years to come. We also understand that the ladies of the world are upset because you’re taken...Get well soon, Father Chris. We’re sure Healy and Trahan didn’t mean to drop you. By the way, Mike Trahan, Rob Zirbel asked if you could stop wearing his helmet when he’s not at work. Is Rob in the engine or the truck?...Pat Cullingford, thanks for stepping up, but I think Kenny Delaney or Dave Preyor said he would go in your place...Hey, SD, Ralph is not happy with the Ortiz situation...George, you don’t want to go on any trips with us? Is it because we plan our trips while we are cooking for the Christmas party?...

Infield fly rule? Infield fly rule. Kevin, Kevin Garvey, I am not going to arm-wrestle you...

Captain K-Rod Burke playing the heavy, now that DeRudder is leaving. The men aren’t buying it...

Welcome to our Probies “square jaw” Maxwell, “the protégé” Egglinger and “Gollum” DiLeo. Good luck with the super and avoid the juniority...

New defensive driving course being given by Cummings and Roth. We already have a few graduates...Still no transfers?...Good luck to a couple of class acts, Gerard “the king” Ammitrano and Paul “I don’t give a &@#%” Passaretti. Enjoy the retirement and thanks for setting the bar high for those who follow. Who will lead the 1B waiting room now?...SOC boys still shopping their resumes.

They may have to remain underemployed...L-55 alumni making new friends and could be the next Lieutenant Paul...Lieutenant “happy” Mosier looking for a pager that updates any changes to the promotions or Chiefs test...Great turnout for Manny’s going-away party. Good luck and Godspeed in the service of our country...The red rocket outdid himself and was duly rewarded for his efforts...We welcome the new spice in Donny D’s life...Tough loss for the defending dodge ball champs. No secret weapon this year...L-55 happy to have the Captain of the defense for a while...Which will happen first: Men spend more time worrying about stretching lines than betting lines? There are new faces in the seat? The blue Mercedes is gone?

Frankie comes in on his own tour? Moody gets super-annuated?...E-50/L-19/Bn-26: Good job by all the guys helping out for another great turnout at oldtimers night. Hey, Blotto! I felt bad you were so tired and fell asleep. Is that what they call it?...

Another spectacular win for the engine on annual bowling day. With Zac Madone anchoring the team, we can’t be stopped...Right, can you say brother-inlaw?...Just when you thought the twilight zone had left the building, other phenomena have struck. Like the forever-filled coffee beans. Hey, Louis, how did they do that? Or the plastic Christmas tree that needs to be watered? Who would have thunk it? Or, last, but not least, in that crazy Pena voice, “Everybody goooes, 68 degrees, sunny standpipe OOS, class 3!”

One day, Louie, you’ll get it...Welcome Probies Willy “I can change my voice” Willets, Sean “no worries” Killarney, Matt “I don’t care how big you are Pujdak and Kyle “vandersloot” Jones.

Wow, really scraped the bottom of the barrel with

WNYF 1st/2008

these characters!...E-50, great job on the “rapid response” lounge!...An even bigger thanks to Dickie for his hard-earned contributions with the safari decor!...Welcome back, big guy! Glad you’re feeling better. I told you, you have to have a heart to have problems with your heart!...Speaking of no heart, has anyone seen Barnych?

7th Division

by FFs Marc Viscogliosi (pictured), E-48, Jerry Walsh, L-38, and Tom Breslin, E-45 E-38/L-51: Greetings from Da Dawg House...We send our thoughts and prayers out to our Brothers from E-249/L-113 on their loss of Lieutenant John Martinson...And, as always, our thoughts and prayers go out to all of the members of our armed services fighting oversees.

Good luck and Godspeed to our own Ismael Bruno, who will be leaving for Iraq shortly. Be safe and get home soon...Joe “top” Dawg Boyle has left the building after 27 fun-filled years of service. Now you will have even more time to plan our parties.

The new top Dawg, Keith “Baba” Pettus wants to thank you for entertaining us for all these years.

Good luck and, as Kirrane let you know, feel free to stop by anytime. You will be missed...Also, congrats to Tom Lorello on his retirement. Enjoy your time as a free man...We have some new additions to the family. Congrats to Bernie O’Hara on the birth of his baby girl, Shea; Pat Mcmanus on his baby boy, Owen; Dave Holdampf on his baby boy, David Aiden; and to RP3 Ralph Manfredonia on his baby boy, Ralph Patrick, the 3rd...Our beloved Sal competed valiantly in the Pat Sajak Cook-off for the hungry. Way to support such a great cause and remember, it doesn’t matter if you win or lose, as long as you have two chefs as pretty as Pushkal and Rockhead...And speaking of Pat Sajak, a big how you doin’ goes out to Kenny “A.A.A.A” Knapp for his big win on the Wheel of Fortune. With that big cash prize and a trip to Rico, you’d think he would at least buy a meal...Hey, Wardo, Captain Corcoran says pass the polish...And Izzy, Schweig, Wacha and Boland, thank you...A special thanks to Billy O for putting together another great company dance and John Pushkal for starting the waterfall of Jack ...McGuire vs. Merc, what a show, “Easy Tots.”...

Also, thank you, Michael, for the Christmas card...A star is born--Mike “myth buster” Gardella, whose talents include animal wrangler, machinist, chef and, of course, model-maker...Our Probies are the best, from Chris Snoop Dawg Morvillo to Sean “dead air” Muranelli or Andy “I will take the detail to City Island” Mendez...There is also a new addition to E-38--Bob “my own prison/arms wide open” Knapp, the karaoke king of Chicago...A big thanks to Tom “Mcpigeon” Boland for bringing back Crazy Hat Night. He would appreciate it if you can get all of the soap out of the glasses before putting them away. His stomach is killing him...E-43/L-59: Greetings from Sedgwick Avenue...Welcome aboard to Probies Redmond, “growing up” Lehman, “the botch” Biscotti, Agent Cody Baker and Dennis Scotchmen...A belated welcome to transferee Herbie Olmstead...The stork visited a “scrappy” upon the Johnsons and #2 for the McRedmonds...

Wedding bells have rung for Kevin Dwyer, James Tesi, Tom Fennel and Kenny O’Brien. Four more good men go down...Our condolences go out to the Didonato family on their recent loss...Has anyone seen Kevin “tummy sticks” Grace?...Paul Torns has recovered nicely from his unfortunate spider bite ...A great time was had by young and old at our 7th bi-annual Sedgwick Avenue reunion. Let’s keep

WNYF 1st/2008

them going for a long time to come. The dinner/dance was a wonderful night out, as usual, especially for those who prefer the dinner part. Who needs dancing when there’s a ventriloquist? Which Officer not only leads his men, he follows them, too?...A fond farewell to John Barrett and Pat Mulligan, off to seek riches at Haz-Mat 1, and to Wally WB Bieber, an unexpected three-quarters. You guys Battalion 20 and E-95/L-36 after the Tommy Brick Memorial Flag are missed...“Slippery” Pete Football League’s championship game. Top row, left to right: Chris Connolly off to the Yonkers FD. Zignaly, E-90; Diego Rivera, E-90; Danny Crowe, E-72; Scott Hate to see you go. Nice job on Silverman, E-89; Anthony Siciliano, E-63; Jeff Rivera, L-41; KC the floor upstairs...Congrats to Barrett, E-72; Kevin Maye, L-36; Rick Garrido, E-95; Derek Dixon, E-81/TL-46 on defending the E-95; Sean Narcisse, E-95; and Carlos Guerrero, L-36. Bottom row, Carpluk-Reilly Cup. Sean left to right: Tommy Cozzi, E-89; Eric DioGuardi, E-72; Sal Pastore, “DTK” Kelly’s putting up NFLE-95; Colin Sheehan, L-36; Dave Alexander, L-36; Mike Wunder, Llike numbers. He’s the size of an 36; and Jose Cruz, L-36. E-95/L-36 won the game, 27 to 26. Thanks to offensive lineman, with the wear all the teams that participated, making it another fantastic season and and tear injuries of a running helping us all in remembering Tommy. back. Answering phones and wielding a clipboard must be Mr. Burns...Mike Artuso might have the weight of tougher than we thought...The great fish tank murder the world on his back, but he still has an unlimited mystery still unsolved as we go to press. Just supply of cookies. Speaking of desserts, Peter remember, if the ziti and meatballs don’t fit, you “Woody” Busching was seen feeding donuts to must acquit...Did you know Pops O’Shea is almost someone big so he could get 24s...The Engine is the senior man in the Battalion?...We’d be remiss if looking to get James “bear” Berry and Danny we didn’t congratulate our recruitment guys, Jason Boylan back in the firehouse before Joe “chewbacno habla Pagan and Elroy on bringing back the ca” Langone closes the second floor due to asbestos glory and a lot of OT to Sedgwick Avenue by winabatement. Oh, Joe, Danny wants his finger back... ning The Leon Lowenstein Award. It’s the Bennett E-48/L-56/D-7: Welcome from Webster Avenue. We medal of the office world...E-45/L-58/Bn-18: Hello start by sending our condolences to the family, from 925 East Tremont...Welcome home Wally friends and Brothers of E-249/L-113 on the loss of Powers from his third tour overseas. God bless and Lieutenant John H. Martinson. He will never be be safe to all our service men and women!... forgotten...We salute Chris Ford L-56 on his recent Welcome back Jason Brezler, again, again. When activation to the Marines, representing the FDNY in you get the irons, you can kick down the door like its finest tradition...A get-well soon goes out to Steve you kicked “protesting” Pete...Congratulations to Marley E-48 and Chris Hyden L-56. Steve, maybe Pete Sergeant Atlas on his entrance into the Leather you can straighten out the mess upstairs...Timmy Helmet Club. Don’t forget that 0900 is the start of “nice leather” O’Neill goes across the floor to L-56. tours at both the firehouse and MetroTech...Atta boy Good luck, Timmy, you’ll need it...Kieran “the to “fast” Sammy Decesare, who stepped up to go to cop” McNamara, formerly of E-48, ties the knot City Island (one year will fly by)...Congratulations and makes the move to Suffolk PD. Congrats, but we to John Daly on the arrival of his daughter, Sara. are betting you’ll be back. He’s back!...Speaking of How did you find the time among hunting, skiing, tying the knot, Pat McCarron E-48, Brendan working, etc.?...Congratulations to Chris “caveHoulihan L-56, John “J-Rod” Rodriguez L-56, man” Cannella on the birth of his daughter Sofia Danny “silver fox” Lopuzzo E-48, Matt Miller L...Congrats to the guys who got engaged--Steve 56 and “brain” Shovlin, formerly of L-56, all get Troche, JP “gobbler” McCloskey and Brian engaged, although J-Rod says he doesn’t remember.

“Xboxer” Cintron. Steve, we thought you knew Mike Brian Boitano Moschitta L-56 thinks you’re better. But we are proud of Chris Reilly, who is sinall crazy! Don’t do it. It’s not too late to say I don’t gle again. You’ll love it; just talk to Bobby White... ...The stork has been busy once again. Congrats to The votes are in: Tommy “the face” Brick is the Scott Doody L-56 and Larry “still haven’t cooked prettiest guy in the firehouse. Sorry, Bill a meal” Sullivan L-56 on the birth of their baby Riccardulli, but you still have your hands to model girls and Brian Bresnick E-48 on the birth of his ...Atta boy to “buffalo” Tommy Wutz on the boys’ baby boy. Oh, we send a belated congrats to Chris night out, but what a coincidence that the Sabers “you never put it in the All Hands, his name is were playing...Atta boy to Marty Murphy on his Jack” Macri on the birth of his son, Jack!...Kevin Ehret Unit Citation. It was a no-brainer... Welcome “DDC--Denver don’t count” McCabe E-48, Larry to Probies John “Chief” Alberino, Joel Van “what’s a stove” Sullivan L-56 and Chris “I’m “weird” Wieran, Phil “Rere” Darcey and getting deployed” Ford L-56 all lose their pumpkin Valedictorian Kristopher Grills. There’s plenty of patches. Well done, boys. Now behave yourselves work to do in the sink. Hey, Kris, L-58? Are you ...We don’t want to leave Chris “a duck forever” tired from all the fires in Connecticut? Get well O’Connell D-7 out. He just finished his extensive soon, Kris! Joel, 45 is not on Webster Avenue. Phil, training in the pond and finally got his own wings don’t listen to “paint chip” Mike McCarthy... and webbed feet. Chris, you can’t wear those Speaking of Probies, maybe Mike “lunch” Lynch Tremont Avenue shirts anymore...Mike “disco” and Ryan “pop time” Bourke can cook their proby Pontillo would like to thank the Chiefs and members meals before their new front pieces burn up...Good of D-7 for the OT...Thank you, Schmitty. You know luck to Dwayne “helmet cam” Davis in South what for!...Everyone at the Christmas party for the Carolina and Paul Sagarbarria in Manhattan...A guys had a great time, especially John “on the heads-up to Phil Spanky Leto. You might be floor” McCann E-48, who enjoyed his nap...Chris bumped out of your couch by Brian “bumper” Ford’s going-away party was great and the men all Gallo. Isn’t it funny how Dan Mr. Smithers Geysen behaved themselves...The Truck defeated the Engine was bumped again? This time, for the seat next to at the Engine/Truck Bowling match, only with the

43

Here is another book that members may want to consider adding to their personal libraries. When the Bronx Burned is a novel set in the arson-forprofit atmosphere that decimated the southern part of the borough in the 1960s and 1970s, FDNY’s “war years.” The author, FDNY Lieutenant John Finucane (retired), worked in Engine 85 and Ladder 59 and thus provides an authenticity to his novel that is lacking in similar books. Published

by Universe and sells for $15.95. help of Mike “big earn” Moschitta L-56...Did anyone see the meteorite that hit Greenville? NASA is speculating it could have been the stone that Lieutenant Billy Butler L-56 passed...Have fun at the Rock, Jerry. You better be working out for the fat-off. The engine is counting on you. We have some Lieutenant Nolan guy. No one really knows his name, but he sure is a name-dropper himself...

The annual 18th Battalion Turkey Bowl was, once again, dominated by the boys on Webster Avenue.

Woody got his two seconds of fame with his gamewinning catch. He is still worried about what Voos says and still gets no respect...And last, but not least, welcome Brain Younghans to E-48. This isn’t midtown, Younghans! Hey, Brian, we have to go over a few things, like putting the handle for the diesel pump away properly and taking the cap off the water jug before putting it in and why did you ask the dispatchers how many they had for the meal? You’re supposed to ask the Division. Well, at least you cooked one more meal than Larry already...

Greetings from the buffs on Gunhill...Tip of the helmet to all the men who got promoted. Where are your gifts?...Congrats to Matty Burke on his bareknuckle fight...Another congrats to the boys on Briggs, E-79/L-37, winning the turkey bowl. It’s always good to know we have such a great company to look up to across the way...A special good luck to Drew “blockhead” Gulick on his engagement.

Think about it, buddy!...Our annual leather helmet raffle was held in March...Any car with a blue light, please park under the el...E-75/L-33/Bn-19: Happy and safe New Year from The Animal House...The house welcomes new Probies Toomey and Lavelle to L-33...We’ll catch you next time, Carlton, promise!...Welcome back to FF Lesnick E-75...A big hey now to FF Jones E-75 on his other son getting on the job. One more and they can man their own engine company...Congratulations on the birth of FF Walters’ E-75 daughter...Best of luck to FF Gill E42, formerly of E-75, on his promotion to Lieutenant ...Good news. Seems the commissary is getting back on track and we finally have toothpaste in the firehouse. Now all we need is some whitening strips for our yellow teeth from not brushing for all those weeks...Rumor mill is in and FF Bendicks’ E-75 New Year’s resolution is to eat bacon this year. The firehouse is a tough place to be a vegetarian, but he must be a tough guy since he has a brand-new leather helmet!...Speaking about helmets, the longest streak of the saltiest helmet has been obliterated. No longer is “Double D’s” L-33 helmet the saltiest.

Honors this year go to FF Mulvihill’s L-33 helmet.

With all these young guys buying leather helmets, it seems a lot of guys are going to give Mulvihill a run for his money. Good luck to all. P.S. Remember that you will be disqualified if caught using an oven!...

One final note: The Officers and members of The Animal House send out our thoughts and prayers to the family, friends and members of E-249/L-113 on the loss of Lieutenant Martinson...Good morning from Briggs Avenue, E-79/L-37/Bn-27...Time now is 9:36 a.m. Probies Lance “butt pincher” O’Byrne and John “I’m not a big talker” Drumm, it’s time to wake up...Thanks again to Glenn Flanagan for coming up with the idea to buy back Mickey Kirby’s 79 t-shirts when he gets promoted...Looking forward to the easy win at the “4 boro” Bike Tour vs. the Gunhill Gang...Congrats to Lieutenant Pete

44

“high britches” Chadwick and Anthony Austin in retirement; Lieutenant Joe “are you guying me” Brosi to Captain; Billy “traffic on the bridge” Clark to Lieutenant; and Mattso to funniest guy in the house since Spencer left...Finally, our condolences to Lieutenant Martinson’s family...E-81/L46 congratulate Mike Ulrich and his wife, as well as Brian Smith and his wife on the births of their children...Good luck to Mike Mad Dog O’Brien on his retirement...We hope that Mike Cogan is doing well.

Just show them the black card, Mike. You’re a gentleman and a scholar and don’t forget professional, too!...We also hope George Shrek Kane is doing well in City Island. Grabert and Essig owe you one ...L-46 welcomes Probies Robert It’s Raining Men Blake and Thomas O’Sullivan...Thanks to everyone for turning out at the 2nd Annual Lieutenant Carpluk/FF Reilly Football Tournament. E-81/L-46 came out on top, thanks to Gerry “scholarship” Murphy’s arm and Troop’s defense...Nice job, Paul “positive think” Scalard, on the Christmas party.

The holidays were extra special this year with you know who on vacation and Lieutenant Fitzsimmons covering the spot. Rob “the boy” Solesky will never be the same. But maybe someone else could use a Lieutenant whose a self-proclaimed expert on firefighting procedures and general knowledge...Congrats to Mike “the creep” Ponja on his marriage. Your life coach must be very proud...The proby standings this far are “train wreck” in first, Pee Wee in second, the Sergeant is a distant third and Brian “blank stare” Kehoe is bringing up the rear. He just keeps going in circles. Anyone need a pony?...Nice job, Sweeny, on your third-place finish in the NYC Marathon...Thanks to our bosses for the night out...Good luck to George Keyer after 90 days in L-46. Come back soon and bring Joe “the ghost of Bailey Avenue” McCool with you...Thanks to Tommy Brusca for straightening Troop out. How will Troop get off next Christmas now?...E-88/L-38: Greetings from the boys of Belmont Avenue...We welcome three new members to the house: in E-88, Billy “39” Donoghue and to L-38, Joe Forrest Gump and Kevin “who’s your” Duddy. This now puts Davis, Davidson, McNamara and Sullivan at senior proby status, even though Donoghue has more time than all of them...Hey, Fitzy, you take the roof tonight. Um, wait, better take the can...Speaking of the can, kind of works better when there is water in it, huh, Bri?...The Miami trip to the Jets game was a huge success..or failure, depending on whom you ask and what your definition of success is.

Thanks to B. Ko, J. Veg and M. Pat for organizing it. Many things were learned, namely by Eddie “charmed life” Stokes, Jerry “Eli never gets the credit” Walsh and Kevin Donovan wasn’t doing anything, “I swear.” And, staying an extra night was a bit much. Tip of the helmet to the Brothers of E79/L-37 for the tailgate set-up...Thanks to all the Brothers in the Battalion for a great time at this year’s Turkey Bowl. Although Tommy John feels differently, everyone played his best...After months of deliberating, arguing, stalling, temple-punching and standing up, the new truck kitchen was unveiled for the Christmas party. A special thanks to all the Brothers for their time and effort on a job well-done and showing what can be accomplished when some people take some initiative. Thanks to all of you; you know who you are and who you aren’t. (BN) A tip of the helmet and thanks to the former members for their generous gift toward the construction of the truck kitchen. Now, the commissars can lay off the “pay your house tax” bit...The Boys’ Nite Out was a night to remember, to say the least...Congratulations to all the 20-year honorees: E-88’s Marty Tighe, Dennis Sullivan and Mike Saccomanno and to L38’s Lieutenant Joe Huber and Rocco Dimieri...

Rocky D don’t listen to no Johnny...Here we go...

Thanks to all the Brothers for their time and effort on making this year’s holiday season and Christmas party a success...Good luck and health to all in ‘08...

Things to look forward to in 2008--the Centennial, a few highly anticipated promotion parties and, of course, the annual collapse in the softball playoffs...

Last one out, don’t forget to shut off the gas..err.. lights...E-93/L-45 thanks all members--past and present--for a great turnout at the 20-year party. A great time was had by all (except the one member who left early because he was upset he was not being honored)...L-45 welcomes Bob Laboranti from across the floor. Sorry, Bill...Did Pete Easop L-45/Bn-13 transfer to the truck just for the sweatshirt?...A big thanks to “The Linehan” of E-93 for trying to keep the Dodgers in Brooklyn...The Big House’s commissar last was seen on the back of a milk carton. If anyone knows his whereabouts, tell him several members are ready to take over commissary duties...

E-93 welcomes Probies Adamo, Rybak and Walton. Rumor has it they are all friends of Seamus Hayes E-93...Hey, Colin Sheil, what’s up, Johnny!...

Quote of the year by Ryan Topper Davan L-45: “Not only am I an FDNY Firefighter, I’m also a football player.”...Finally, anyone interested in dirt bike lessons should contact Hugo “the thumb” Herold, Bn-13 Aide.

8th Division

by FFs Craig Chille (pictured), L-87, Wally Richards, E-330, Steven Pascale, E253, Mike Colgan, L-169, Greg Guastavino, L-85, and Pete Milisci, L-85 E-167/L-87 welcome aboard newest truck member, John Runyan. Good luck...Farewell to our buddy, Anthony Skomina. Congratulations and best of luck on your retirement. Your legacy of being the only guy to outrun a bear will go down in firehouse history...“The Legend” ran the first-ever two-day paintball trip. Next time, we might be better off paying extra for a bus that actually works...Are you sure Joe Namath is not dead?...Accarino, please report to remedial bunk-making classes at 0900 hours. That’s why you’ll never be a real fireman...The new firehouse patch is on its way; the Egyptian flag, because of all the pyramids we have going on here...The unofficial fat-off results of a tie currently are under review. Colligan wants answers regarding who, if anyone, weighed Fraser in...Where is Lieutenant Midbo?...“The Magic Man” is wearin’ the engine members down...According to house standards, maximum occupancy in the weight room is one...

Nothing like a holiday meal with straight Ragu brought in by the Italian...Hey, Acc, minus seven degrees in Green Bay isn’t bad. It’s a dry cold...Matt O’Donnell officially was bucketed as a civilian by an unlikely source, tying the previous record of bucketing civilians set by himself. Have some white Zin and pass out. You’ll forget all about it...Congrats and continued best of luck to Lieutenant Marty Fullam on being invited to Washington for the President’s State of the Union Address...Occhi, take this to Vegas with you: For your father, for your father...8th Division All Hands entries can be emailed to L87chille@aol.com...E-330/L-172: Greetings from Bensonhurst...Welcome to new Probies Tesoriero, Giordano and Demuth...Fresh out of LCC school, FFs Carden and Bruno now whipping around the new “permanent” spare that L172 has...A big welcome back to our favorite UFO boss Lieutenant John Travers...Good luck and welcome to new Proby Matt Sinclair L-172...E-330 welcomes Lieutenant Gatto to the company...

WNYF 1st/2008

Another welcome back to FF Thomasevich L-172.

The kitchen was so quiet without you...Get well soon to FF Messina E-330. The quote book is empty without you...Be careful if you’re driving the streets of Bensonhurst these days. FF Kennedy E-330 is behind the wheel...FF Rich “baby bells” Piccolli, after completing chauffeur school, now keeps his coffee cup on the shelf over the stove...Shocking news from the 65th Street sports desk--the hockey team blew a two-goal lead with a minute to play in the King of the Ice tourney and the softball team lost in the first round of the playoffs again after a great regular season...Meal money is short one payer again ...FF Patty “Q” is holding anger management classes if anyone is interested...Congrats to FF Kennedy on the birth of his second child...Good luck and well wishes to newly married FFs Avena and Dimeglio.

Don’t worry, Avena, we won’t tell anyone about the horse and carriage...65th Street recently had a few members move on. Congrats on retirement to Lieutenant James “Sammy” Sammarco L-172.

We will miss your aftershave. Lieutenant Roderick Lewis “I know you just didn’t hit my car.” FF Norm “the rooster” Schlosser--junior men in the bunk room may rest easier now. To newly promoted Lieutenant James R. Montaruli, esq., L-172, your tax advice will be missed. But, seriously, we will miss most your smile that lit up the kitchen whenever you walked in and the great example you set forth for the new guys. And, last but not least, to Lieutenant James “mouch” Ventre, the corner bottom bunk in the tv room held a moment of silence on your promotion day and the recliner will be wearing a black armband until your next meeting. May your pillows be fluffy and your bread be stale as you bounce around the City! 65th Street will never be the same without all of you. Thanks for the memories!...

E-241/L-109: Hey, KK, out on meal, in on cake. The seagull has landed!...Congratulations to Lieutenant “call me Robert” Magnusen L-109 on his retirement. He has been an inspiration to us all, keeping the pride and tradition alive here on 3rd Avenue.

We’ll miss you, Bobby OT...Joe Spags, does this mean that the “GA” is your best man now since he was there for the proposal? Umm..Best man and Godfather..Brrrrrt!...Mike Scaglione..waiting “255” days with no end in sight...Welcome to our new UFO bosses, Paulie “whispers” Medordi, Rob “learned this one in Squad” Maddalone and Tom “you know what I mean” Mooney...Anybody seen Mike “bubble arms” Cunningham lately?...8th Division MIA--Timmy Butler, Mike Mullaly and Frankie “Lee” Leandro. Ralphie “no” Taliento wants in over there, too, as soon as he finishes his “weight” training. Don’t take “big man on the job” literally...Hey, Captain Pete Wright, glad you’re going to stay a Captain a little while longer...Thanks again to Paulie Barbara, Jimmy Mullins and Andrew LaPointe for taking the lead on the new gear boxes. It was a top-notch job...Mully to Jay Conelli, see you in October if your team from Da Bronx can find steroid-free pitchers..seven years and counting. (Gotta be in it to win it. And, how long since the Mets won anything?)...E-151/L-76 offer our best wishes to Captain Greg Gargiso, Lieutenant Bob Ruggerio, Lieutenant Pete White and “the mastermind” John Scafidi on their recent retirements. They will all be missed...We officially welcome Lieutenant Jerry Vanderstar and Proby Kevin Zanoni, aka Queezie, to E-151. Truck work is not as easy as it looks, huh, Kev?...Get well soon, Lieutenant John Delgrosso. We’re all thinking about you, Lieu...Congratulations are in order for our new commissars, Bobby “the Bob” Bollman and Joseph “happy feet” Orlando. As long as Joe doesn’t get his hands on any bricks, we should be alright. And is Xango going to be a commissary item now?...A big pat on the back to “one half of the

WNYF 1st/2008

Animals” Neil Sgambati for being one of the Staten Island Advance’s Firefighter of the Month.

You made us all proud...

Finally, for all you who follow our very own FWF wrestling promotion, Nick The Titan Moreback is our FDNY heavyweight champion. “The Animals” FDNY fireboat salutes the thousands Chris Tizio and Neil Sgambati are the Division of people participating in the November 2, 2007, New York City 8 tag champs. And, “the leader of the inside team” Marathon. In the large photo, the runners are shown crossing the Ray Pezzoli is our Battalion 23 champ. Good Verrazano Bridge. Inset photo shows some of the FDNY members who job defending your titles, made the run. They are at the starting guys...E-160 sends conline. The 2007 Marathon was signifigrats to Chris Petely on his promotion to Captain. cant for another reason. Retired Lieutenant Vic Navarra, long-time His pot-stirring will be Race Coordinator for the Marathon missed...All of the mem(and other races), succumbed to canbers on Clove Road hope cer a few weeks later. large photo by for a safe return for FF Edwin Reynoso from his Stephen Moran; inset photo by Staten Island Dispatcher Steven White (retired) deployment to Afghanistan. Stay safe, Chris Fieramosca, Chris Isola and everyone else Ed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you...New who helped out to make it a great day...The Penguin additions to E-160--Welcome to Probies DiTrento had two dreams come true--the Giants winning the and Nigro. Hopefully, you won’t develop nightmares Super Bowl and his first-ever goal in hockey...Just a of boomerangs going back and forth to Brooklyn...Is reminder for those of you (J.J.) who do not know, FF “no rap” Pirot still on vacation?...FF Steiner you can’t take the out of boro A/R and work the got 49 out of 50 correct on his CFR-D exam. Does BFU...Hey, now that Chris and Steve know where that mean that he is entitled to a 12 percent pay the coffeepot is, we can show them where the washincrease?...E-284/L-149: Stork call from the Castle er and dryer are. Congrats to them for coming off on the Hill--FFs Madden, Maguire, Rudnick, B. probation...L-78 congratulates its newest chauffeurs-Smith and Cox. Congratulations to all...Special congratulations to Captain Cuccurullo L-149 on the Dear Chief Cassano, birth of his first grandchild, baby Nicholas...Good On November 10, 2007, our Parents Athletic Club job by FF Glenn Sweeney L-149 at recent all-hands organized a charitable event to benefit Petrides School on 18th Avenue...Congratulations to Lieutenant graduate Matthew Valente (Class of 2007). In August, Coffin on his recent engagement...Belated welcome Matt suffered a tragic accident that left hm paralyzed. to the Castle Probies Gambino, Fiore, Bergen, Thanks to the kindness and generosity of several Sorrentino and Balukas, all E-284. In L-149, Firefighters from Engine 167, the evening was a great Polovoy, Miles, Spencer, Norris and Kirrane... success. We raised $25,000 for the cause.

Welcome to E-284 from L-10, FF Kulikowski.

On behalf of the Petrides School community and Don’t expect the same door traffic as 10’s, unless the Valente family, I thank your men for volunteering you count old Italian ladies baking us cookies!... their time to prepare and serve food to our 250 guests.

Congratulations to FF Romano E-284 on recent Your Firefighters have proved that New York’s nuptials...Belated congratulations on promotions to Bravest are certainly among New York’s most caring Lieutenant--Pisano, Scollan, Smith, Kelly, people.

Gancitano and Leger. You guys will be missed...

Sincerely, Our deepest sympathies go out to E-24/L-5 and the Joanne Buckheit, Principal (See photo below.)

Graffagnino family for their loss. Joey worked here for only a year, but his friendly smile and sense of humor always will be remembered. Dyker Heights won’t be the same without him...All members and Officers of Castle on the Hill wish to thank all the Brothers, firehouses, businesses, families and friends who contributed/participated in our successful fund raiser for FF Bobby Ford. He continues his valiant fight against pancreatic cancer. Special thanks must go out to E-242, E-330/L-172 and E243/L-168/Bn-42. Your turnout will not be forgotten...On August 4, 2007, the Castle lost a great guy. Ray Hauber E-284 passed away after a 21/2year battle with cancer. He never complained and his courage and strength through his fight were inspirational to all who knew him. He will never be Current and former members of Engine 167 lend a forgotten and is forever a part of our firehouse.

May he rest in peace...More great parties from The helping hand, cooking at the Benefit for Matt Valente at the Staten Island Petrides High School Hot Corner...The Co. Stag--Thanks to most of the complex. Matt became paralyzed shortly after gradjunior guys for helping clean up and to Eddie uation from Petrides, where he was a star wrestler.

O’Neil for putting it all together...The Co. Stag at the Staaten--Thanks to Gary and all the retirees for Shown left to right are Tom Delzoppo, John Occhipinti, Mark Bonsanti, Matt Valente, Daniel their continued support and the annual Hot Corner Bergen, John O’Dowd, John Colon, Danny Fennell kids Christmas party. Thanks to Sean Taylor, and Lieutenant Lenny Merolla.

45

Doug Top Gun Huebler, Pete “make sure we have gas” Heyde, Sean Taylor and Mike Vecsi...The Hot Corner welcomes new Probies Mike Brancato, Steve Leoni and Sal Dilorenzo...Hello all from E253, here in Bensonhurst...We’ve had a bunch of new additions to the 253 family. Congrats and best of luck and health to Dom Saia’s twin baby girls, Eric Surbito’s baby girl, Tommy Girardi’s baby girl, Richie Coyne’s third girl and the only masculine child, Lieutenant Pape’s second baby boy....

Welcome and best of luck to our new Proby Zack Tun...And, congrats for getting off probation, Eric and Flanagoon...Welcome to Joe Marsh from L161. Lucky for you, you missed Super Bowl Sunday’s chickens and crickets conspiracy. Were you in on it with that Pascale guy?...Congrats and best of luck to newlywed Tim Ambery and the recently engaged Johnny Amsterdam...Willie babes, Merry Christmas. Your love and fondness for the Pacific Rim is admirable...Schwaballs, congrats on your parents’ move to La Boca Vista. You’re gonna be all over that shuffleboard court...Petey, boy, thanks for all your help on this issue’s WNYF items. Required reading for you--mutual partner 101--before your next trip. No control for you?...Frankie D., happy 50th, baby. We’re all looking forward to your 51st, especially Lieutenant K. More yesterdays than tomorrows and try not to drive in reverse at full speed for open parking spots when taxi cabs are close by...MC Hammer, another issue, the same line, still not in the new house yet?...Our beloved Clam, “sorry, Lieutenant, I’m operating.” Basic firehouse phone manners? “Engine Officer, please”? Or was it you just didn’t feel like talking to Pete, which could be understandable?...Congrats to Mr. Vigs for swallowing his pride and letting BB solve his Super Bowl panic. Good karma for you, Bella, which explains your good luck for that game...Richie C., you’re catching up to Jimmy H. in the daughters department. Balls says, “real men make men”...Our esteemed Lieutenant K., great idea on the rafting trip. It may be a little lonely up there by yourself, but we still love the idea...Lieutenant P., be warned.

Little League baseball season is right around the corner...In the next issue, we will congratulate the E253 fat-off contest winner, so stay tuned. Once-in-alifetime sight, thanks to this contest--Pal on a treadmill, sweating and breathing heavy like crazy. Scary.

13th Division

by FF Dave Cohen, L-127

E-275/L-133, Merrick Boulevard Magic congratulate Todd “the kernel” Vetter on his promotion to Lieutenant and Scott “tackleberry” Breslin on his demotion to NCPD. Best of luck, guys...

Congrats also go out to Joe “Captain meatball” Sciurca on his retirement. The Brothers enjoyed having that cup of coffee with you here...Welcome to our new Probies Bob from Account Temps Wallace to E-275 and Rob “Dicky” Goohs to L-133. Hands are meant to be on brooms and tools, not in pockets...Nice job to Jackie Martinez for her “midget toss,” sending Otis clear off his feet and out of the sink...We would like to thank the Grinch for not stealing Christmas...The cheesy moustache contest is underway and cheesy is an understatement for some of the Brothers.

Congrats to all the men who kept it on for the whole month...Atta boy to Tim “Sully” O’Brien, who now kicks the bus trips up a notch with shotguns...Tip of the month, courtesy of Jim Swervolino. If you feel that you have a flammable liquid on you, you may want to keep away from any open flame...By default, Tim Skip Lockwood back in the saddle. Hey, skinny...Poorest excuse award goes out to Mike Shrek Mills for watching his goddaughter on the date of a job function. Honorable mention to the second-place excuse of Jimmy Keanes, “I have to pick my future in-laws up from the airport.”...Good luck to Tyrone el Diablo Clarke on his new gig as ticketmaster...

The race for the King Kiester is going strong with JK, JM, VR and AL all in the running...Captain McKeon was formally introduced to Frank “the tank”...What would make a 53-year-old man get an earring? No, really, Gonzo, it looks good on you...

Snap heard around the firehouse goes out to Daryl “the turtle” Hudnell. Don’t..throw..anything..at.. me...Another one of those pesky cars stopped too quickly in front of JK on his way into work. Maybe the bride is pushing her foot on the floor and grabbing the handle for a reason...If anyone out there has a hook, he is still trying to get across the floor. Any help is appreciated...E-308/Bn-51: Greetings from Lefferts Boulevard...We would like to welcome the newest members to the company: Anthony 11th Division Beetlejuice Mastrogiovanni, Eric “Finch” Wilken and Keith “I arrested Jones” Mitchell ...Congrats to Jim “the mood” Moody and Captain Tom Woods on their recent additions-a boy for the Mood and a girl for the Captain...

We now have two members in the nub club, thanks to O’Connor’s money pit. We think Ed Gaynor outranks Lieutenant Brady, though, with more time...Good luck to Eric Mary O’Connor on training for the Marathon or, as others would call it, “a mile fun run.”...Dan “little Yez” Yezzi thanks Lieutenant Storz for all of the relationship counseling he has been giving him. We hear the little blue pill was recommended...Good luck to Gregg Lumpy Lawrence and Steve the Whopper McCarren on their detail to E-329. We are trimming the fat around here, literally...Good luck to Paul Barney Fife Saponeri on the NCPD. Three Lieutenant John Leimeister accepts a $2500 scholarship years and out...Hey, Schultz, Joe Gick’s offer award from Don Epstein and David Gold of the New to take you back to Manhattan is still on the York State Honorary Fire Chiefs Association. The prestable...E-285/TL-142, Blazing Saddles: We welentation was made at FDNY Headquarters in Brooklyn come the following Officers and members to on December 3, 2007. Also participating were Chief of 98th Street--Captain Joe “rock star” Operations Patrick McNally, Commissioner Nicholas Matthews, Lieutenant Brian “Squad 285” Scoppetta and Chief of Department Salvatore J. Santosus and Lieutenant Ed Sleepy Walsh, all Cassano. Currently, Lieutenant Leimeister is pursuing to E-285...Also, welcome Lieutenant Marty an associate’s degree in Fire Services and a bachelor’s “fragile” Tripptree to L-142...Chris Crazy degree in Emergency Management. photo by Stephen “Butch” Moran Eyes Cunningham transfers into E-285 from E-

46

329...Welcome to the new Probies--Jim “buzz lightyear” Denniston, Paul Fischetti, Rich Barbaro Ferraci, Joe “stinky” Kiesling, Mike “hoops” Domanici, Gene “where’s the phone” Tanis, Mike “up the door” Abbott, Tony “extra week” Guest and Brian Silence of the Lambs Walling...Congrats to Chief Jim “no trace of him” Tracy and Captain Rich “Dik’s dog’s” Duffy, Mike “delicious” Hubert and Jimmy Gilbert Gottfried Lavin. Best of luck...Goodbye and hello to Lieutenant/FF Mike “I missed you guys” O’Connell...Good luck to father Frank Costa on his transfer to L-14 and the birth of his son...And good luck to Jim “white pepper” Regan an his transfer to NCPD...The stork also paid a visit to Chris Dekanchuk with Aidan, Jimmy Priest with Emma, Richie Sgro with Jordan, Danny Gunning with Roxie and Rob Brennan with Shane ...Wedding bells for Mike Big Red Romano, Chris “three packs a day” Magas and Mike “she’s a doctor, dude” Mangino...Good luck to Tony “crash” Gorgano and Mike “knotty” McCarthy on their retirements. Now, clean out your lockers!...

We sent 98th Street’s best and brightest to the Rock to teach the Probies and look what we get in return!

Thanks to John “nice act” Biondi, Phil Pee Wee Ruggiero, Charlie “soul patrol” Zachman and Wayne “I love E-285/L-142” Hulse for imparting their wisdom on the new guys. Don’t bother coming back...Captain Kenny “that went well” Fink is at FLIPS teaching new Lieutenants. Let’s hope he has better luck...Glen “you know what’s going on” Stordeur is at the Rock, keeping tabs on 142’s rig.

At least he’s doing something productive...Jimmy “lazy boy” Sullivan somehow scammed his way into the boats and they actually kept him and got rid of the more-qualified Scott Admiral Forget...Thanks to Dave “never leaving” Sears for improving the parking situation...Bobby “329” Madden is challenging happy Ed Rissland for the title of “Picky Eater” and “Most Miserable Person.”...Thanks to all of the Brothers who showed up for the benefit for Mike “malingerer” Romano and Danny “go, Pats” Gunning. They appreciated all the help...The Hanna golf outing was a smashing success, literally. Don’t bother looking forward to next year’s...E-298/TL127/Bn-50, The Hillside Hurricanes: The everrevolving door does not seem to stop on Hillside Avenue...Welcome new Probies Brian “mute” Broggy, Anthony Art Deco Deko, James “deli man” Donnelly to E-298 and Eric “can I come back in now, Lieutenant” Akerberg, John Assistant DA Healy and William “Captain Bill” Van Leer to TL-127. Note to Captain Bill, take care of the Chief and let him park where he wants.

Leaving notes on his windshield; probably not a good idea...Also rotating through the house, but not for more than 90 days--Steve “droop-a-long” Camarda and Mark Rickshire Rabbit Sylvers from the House of Hate on the Boulevard of Death and Clown College freshman Chris “huh” Lucarelli and Spencer O’Dell from up the hill. Enjoy your stay at the former Hilton...Word has it that Mike McNally needed a little baby-sitting at the ski races this year.

Thanks to Marc “the baby sitter” Muschitiello and Nef “Albergo there?” Albergo for helping our young friend out...Congrats go out to Tommy Staubitser for winning the mustache contest...Good luck to all who have joined the “fat-off” for 2008.

Can Jimmy McCarren do it again? Or will Wayne “turtle” Warner take the title? Only time will tell...

We wish a fond farewell to some of our senior men going off to different places--Bob “Boro” Rollins and Kenny “Stinky” Poulin off to Rebreather unit, Chris “head” Lindberg to Haz-Mat or now known as the “head” Mat unit, Lauren Smith to L-47 and Brad Hores off to R-4. A definite loss to the house, but a gain for the Hurricane refrigerator...Hockey game coming up soon. Support a Clown and show

WNYF 1st/2008

up...Lieutenant Donnelly’s son’s fund raiser is slated for the 29th. Look for flyers from Clown College at your house...Oh, and Battalion Chief Tauber still here.

14th Division

by FFs Chris Fallon (pictured), E-295, and Nick Graziano, E-273 E-313/L-164: It’s been a while, so here we go!...Welcome to FFs Chuck Pettigano, Bob Szwed, Bill Sesslemen, Keith “the hugger” Huggler and last, but certainly not least, the one and only Claude Kebbe!...Keep those calls coming!...We bid a fond farewell to our Brothers Joe Ledeoux and John Caliendo, who have retired and taken on the next phase of life--riding Harleys for eight hours a day...

We welcome Lieutenant James Walsh to the engine and for his love for food...Our Firefighter of the year was a three-way tie among Tom Herrmann, Chris Goehring and Bob Quinn, all of whom have retired recently. So, the company says, good luck, Bro. We thank them for unparalleled wisdom and generosity as they look forward to the future. We will really, really miss them. We can’t stress enough how much they will be missed after all they gave to..the..uh.. wait..umm. Anyway, Happy New Year to all and stay safe...Paul Tokarski smiled the other day and said he liked someone, confirmed!...E-325/L-163: Greetings. It’s been a while, so there’s a lot to update. My apologies to anyone not mentioned...

First off, a warm welcome to FF Traina L-163 and Lieutenant Rocco E-325, recently transferred in, and to new/old Probies Draguc E-325, Paglino E325 and Georganes L-163. It must be the outstanding training of Lieutenant Michelli L-163 over at the Rock, who turned out three great Probies...Also,

WNYF 1st/2008

a belated welcome to Seattle Slew (or should I say Ruffian) Munsey L-163...And welcome to our most recent Probies Agliato L-163, Garcia L-163 and Cestaro E-325. Good luck to all...Congratulations to Herr Meihoefer L-163 on his promotion to Lieutenant...To the commissars--can we forego the iced tea for a couple of months and get a new banner?...Well, we can understand the Engine losing to the Truck in basketball, but getting caught cheating and still getting killed in the football game? The camera lens catches everything!...This just in. Geese beware! Wooden dogs have been mysteriously showing up all over Woodside...Holy smokes! Santa Claus made an appearance at the Christmas party, but the biggest surprise was when Barbour’s dad showed up!... Speaking of the holidays, Leonick L-163 well..er..um..ah, never mind...Anyway, Mina L-163 was feverishly working the phones to make sure Karacsony L-163 didn’t get zinged for stepping up on Christmas...Hamelburg L-138, no L-136, wait..L103..umm..Engine..no..he doesn’t do Engine work..

L-163? Still anxiously waiting for his first job, although you wouldn’t know it if you talked to him...

And, finally, welcome back, Tolan E-325...Oceans 12 beware!...E-292 welcomes and congratulates Dwight Capasso for completing his probation.

Quick note to the companies in Battalion 46--keep an eye out for Dwight. He has fulfilled his destiny by replacing Dan (couple of drinks and I fight you, too!) Garcia. We do wish Dan the best of luck in the BFD...E-292 thanks R-4 for another great Proby party turnout. Tradition means everything on this job and you guys haven’t missed a beat. We need to thank the Probies for throwing a great party...E-292 is sorry to say that we will be losing Kevin (there’s no money in firefighting) Mahoney for an undisclosed amount of time. Mark, how do you feel about that? Oh, you didn’t know. Oops! Oh, well, someone had to let the cat out of the bag...E-316 congratulates Lieutenant Ireland on getting the spot and giving “lil’” Pete and Rob “I’m not screaming” Rawald a run for their money with some great meals...Best of luck to Joe “mint wedding” Papa, Andrew “I’m going hunting” Wittman and Mike Harding on their marriages. Who’s Harding? Never met him...Angry Ray no longer is angry, thanks to his engagement...Land, sea, air welcomes Mike “rusty red” Mehling, our newest Proby. Take your time, we got it...As far as the banner, there’s only one guy who didn’t wanna buck up. You know who you are..Hordty...To all the guys, good job on the room that “no one wanted.” If we all wipe our feet, the rug will last another month...Last, but not least, congratulations to Captain Featherston on his

retirement. He will be missed...TL-160/E-326 welcomes our new Probies Marcano, Giglia, Aquilina, Buglione and Bert who?...Good job to all who helped on the new kitchen table, especially Dan “ice cream” Salsedo, Harry “outside phone” McCabe, Kevin “how’s the knee” Burns and Don “beach house” Spurell...Good luck to Lieutenants Gallagher and Darcy on their new adventures. It’s not good-bye to Lieutenant “Chuck” Dirico.

You’ve only moved one cell block over, so there’s no parole...Congrats to Deputy Chief Paul “letterman” Mannix...Has anyone seen Montella? Has his address changed yet?...Does anyone need a Heffernan cheap?...Can someone please work for Clarke tonight (Friday)?...Hey, K “red,” it wasn’t that hot. See...And would someone please get rid of that magazine or meet me in the basement...The Officers and members of E-273/L-129 extend our deepest sympathy to the family and firehouse family of Lieutenant John Martinson of E-249. Rest in peace and may your families find peace as well...

There have been some changes in the Officer ranks.

We have two new Captains and a new Lieutenant on Union Street. Mark Doran is now the Captain of E273 and John Urbielewicz is the new leader of L129...Welcome aboard also to Tom Smith, the newest Lieutenant in the truck. The spots became available when Captains Tom Brady and Pat Lyons were promoted to Battalion Chief and Lieutenant Dennis Meyers was promoted to Captain. Best of luck in your new ranks. We also wish Chief Brady the best of luck in his retirement ...Congratulations to Gus Lodato on his promotion to Fire Marshal. Any time you want to come back, Rob Kiernan will gladly give you back the seat...

Welcome to our newest Probies for the truck-Vincent Bosco, Ian Brennan and Steve Interdonati ...Speaking of Probies--well, former Probies--congratulations to engine members John Keaveny, Eric Hanson, Joe “lots of letters” Chidichimo and Rick Mundy on the completion of their probation...John Keaveny helped lead the FDNY marathon team to victory over the NYPD team in the New York City Marathon with a team time of just more than three hours. John was the second FDNY finisher...

Congratulations to John for also getting engaged, with the wedding planned for the spring...Anthony Passarello got engaged as well...Congratulations to Brian Grace and Lori on their marriage...

Congratulations to all the new fathers--Billy Maurer with a daughter; Brian Mark with a daughter; Tom Colvin with a son; Kevin Cassidy with a son; and Mike Dustin, whose wife had twins...Kevin Moran did his usual excellent job organizing the

Blast From the Past--1930 Mack 700-gpm Pumper Engine Company 319/Battalion 46/Division 14

by Honorary Chief of Department Jack Lerch ngine Company 319 was organized on October 18, 1930, at their current location of 78-11 67th Road, Middle Village, Queens. Their first apparatus was a re-assigned 1921 American LaFrance pumper from Engine 272 that they kept for only two months while awaiting delivery of the then-new 1930 Mack 700-gpm pumper.

This pumper, one of seven similar ones, carried registration number 1004 and was assigned to 319 on December 23, 1930. It was a model AP-10 Mack, equipped with a 700-gpm gear displacement pump.

These were the first

E

Mack pumpers in the FDNY fleet and commonly known as Bulldog Macks. The other six of the original seven went to Engines 56, 97, 264, 309, 320 and 321. Originally, they were delivered with solid tires. However, pneumatics were installed on all seven during the late 1930s and early 1940s.

The one assigned to Engine 319 served there until replaced by a 1951 Ward LaFrance 750-gpm pumper on September 19, 1951. It finally was disposed of in August 1953, almost 23 years after entering service.

47

photo from the Mand Library collection

Dear Chief Cassano, On behalf of the U.S. Army War College and the Class of 2008, we wish to express our sincere appreciation to you and your associates for making our small group visit to the Fire Department of New York (FDNY) on November 15, 2007, an outstanding success. The visit strongly supported our core curriculum, examining the way the FDNY faces the challenges in providing security to our nation’s largest and most complex cities.

The students and faculty were very pleased to have the chance to discuss the work and challenges faced by the Department with Deputy Chief Mike Puzziferri and later on with key personnel from your Operations center. Chief Puzziferri’s personality, professionalism and personal candor made this a very pleasant and professionally rewarding experience.

Particularly noteworthy was the visit he organized to 10 House, next to Ground Zero.

There, Captain Eugene Kananuwicz and his team made the group feel welcomed and our officers and spouses felt honored to have the opportunity to speak with some of the great Firemen in your Department. The efforts and genuine enthusiasm of your staff on this small group visit certainly helped to make this New York City trip very special for our students and faculty.

Please extend our thanks to Chief Mike Puzziferri, the members of 10 House and the duty Officers within your Operations center for a job well-done. Those members of your organization made our visit so rewarding. We hope to continue our professional relationship for future educational trips to New York City.

Sincerely, David H. Huntoon, Jr. Major General, U.S. Army Commandant

dinner/dance, which is never an easy job...Good luck to Lieutenants’ list member Jimmy Walther on his detail to City Island...A speedy recovery to former 129 member Lieutenant Hughey Jimenez as he mends from a broken leg...Congrats to Tom Fitzgerald, promoted to Chief, Rich Gander, promoted to Captain and John Barry and Jeff Bednar, promoted to Lieutenant...Babies for Smith and Beltrami--boys...Welcome aboard to Joe “big top Pee Wee” Zorlenzan and Lieutenant Chris “all my money is in real estate” Phillips...Welcome back, now as Captain, Mike Burke...Juefo Frango was rewarded for getting in touch with his feminine side...Chu is forbidden to use the wok...“Red rocket” Delaney, 50 percent off any siding job...Tony “terrific” Tarasi wants everyone’s locker combos...

Proby Nash sez ice cream and donuts are part of the four food groups...Celestino and Brockbank want their Minoxidil back...Cronenberg and Schlaffer are competing for bartender of the month...Mr. “charisma” Cataldi, congrats on 25 years and Dave “freefallin’” Lynott on 27 years...Chillemi, Papadopulos, Lenney, the new slogan is nobody does it better...Moriarty sez that’s not what pulled pork means...Denice and Greco starring in the brothers-in-law meshugana wedding...“Bottlecap” Baltaian wants to be the pinball wizard...“45” Fehling now reorganizing the Battalion. Confirmed ...Villanueva wears wrestling tights and garters under his uniform.

15th Division

by FF Kevin “Rusty” Roth, E-257 On behalf of the 15th Division, we extend our deepest condolences to E-249/L-113 on the loss of our Brother Lieutenant John Martinson. He will never be forgotten...Canarsie’s Bravest welcome new Probies Charles McLean, III, and Jose Cordero to E-257, new transfers Dan Comer and Joe “Joda” Broadbent to E-257 and Marc “with a c” Thalheimer to L-170. Welcome to the job and good luck to all of you!...Congrats to new father Mike Izzo E-257 on the birth of a baby girl.

No, not that Mike Izzo...A tip ‘o the helmet to Jim McNulty L-170 on his recent “A.” Please tell Rescue to stop calling...Nice job to Billy “B-game” Zask E-257 on the bone marrow donation...A great time was had by all on the Giants’ Chicago trip. Go, Blue!...Welcome Paul Stroessner to Bn-58. It’s finally official and we’re very glad to have you...

News flash: Al Aydin E-257 beats out Chris Cuccaro E-257 to claim the Sauce King title. It had to be the ginger ale...Congrats to Jon Militano E257 on his college degree. Too bad you were absent the day they taught not to stick your hands in a hot oven. Now stay out of Savo’s kitchen!...Bradford Street welcomes aboard Captain Tommy Dolan, Don Wetherbee and Bobby Boldi to L-175...E-332 rolls out their welcome mat to Lieutenant Rob Forde and Proby Tim Melia...Congratulations to Captain Pat Ginty, Lieutenant Pat Sheridan, Otto Rodriguez and Andy Lindow on their recent promotions. Hey, Andy, just remember you’re not here to make friends...Best of luck to Steve Koenig and Mike Maniscalco on your retirements...

Congratulations to Kenny “GRYZ” Gryzlaczyk, Bobby Boldi, Chris Callan and Jason Ronayne on their recent additions at home. Best of luck...Tip of the helmet to L-175 for winning the Engine vs.

Truck softball game and for winning the first annual Bradford Street Hockey Cup...Hey, Charlie Eberstien, have fun in Staten Island next summer ...Jimmy Denn can get a great deal on DVDs if anyone is interested...It’s been a few years since our last

48

entry, but E-283 is back! With many changes and many new faces, we welcome new guys Timmy “buckets” Meagher, Rich “double D” Damian (transfer from E-241, not upstairs), Kenny “buffiest tattoo on the job” Thompson, Vince Atkinson, Steve Tanzosh (I promise I won’t write anything about the nose), Rhyan Wischerth and Chris Tucker. (Pete F. and Chris M. finally have Captain Ciro Napolitano is a multi-talented man. He recently made a nice save (on his day off, no less, and with his son in tow) and also painted this mural on someone who can the apparatus door of Engine 323. The Captain and his members proudly pose look up to them.)...

Congrats to new par- in front of the firehouse. ents Jimmy Lang, made amends...Macy’s is in negotiations with Kevin Tommy Moore (his second), Billy McNally, Pete Coursey L-147, to use his actual head, as a balloon, Herting, Rich Damian, Vince Atkinson and in the 2008 Thanksgiving Day Parade!...Brian Captain “new grandpa” Burke...Also, congrats to Clifford L-147 was overhead saying, “For all you new Lieutenants Matt Mills, Kenny Danielsen do, this Bud’s for you!” after popping the question to (don’t worry, the couch already has been filled) and his girl...Another one bites the dust. Kyle McGoff Dellon Bluetooth Morgan…And, finally, good luck E-281, 24 and married--sweet!...Chris Livolsi Lto Tommy Goodheart on his retirement...Greetings 147, congratulations on your promotion! Who’s from Mill Basin...Congratulations on E-323’s 75going to do the sheets now? You can be sure that one Year Anniversary. Nice job to all. Torres’ best line, person will miss you; the grill!...Andy Kelly L-147 “1&1 C/O.”...Is it Mike The Hammer Hammel or has been working hard on his new stand-up routine.

Mike aka Crocodile Dundee? Nice job, Mike, on Two reviews are in: “That wasn’t funny!” and “Less showing Fazio no respect...Congrats to Mooney and laughing at your own jokes and set up the deep Barraud on weddings. Better luck next time, fryer!”...Congrats to E-281’s Danny McCarthy, Joe Mooney, on your transfer...Welcome back, John Richter and Lieutenant Jim Harkins--20 years!...

Bauer, and congrats on graduating from ECC Congratulations, John Labarbera L-147, on the School. Know your area...Wake up, Fredo, you didbirth of your baby boy...Cortelyou Road extends a n’t finish your crossword puzzle and you are still a warm welcome to its newest Probies, FFs Mike junior man...Congrats to Ray Longo on new baby Leonard and John Dreher...Finally, Gerry boy arrival and good luck with your desk job at DLeonard E-281 is in love...The Friendly Firehouse, 15...Hey, Sean, give someone a chance with the E-309/L-159 congratulates Chris Schuster on the meal. We are sick of stir fry!...We’ll miss you, Pete, birth of his daughter...Welcome across the floor to Lwhile at L-170...Lots of luck, E-309, with our star, 159, Greg Briglio and John Santoli...Dave Lamar big Al. Watch out for his next scam...Welcome to flew south for the winter. Nice to have you back...

Probies Larry George, Sostenes Martins, Edgar Good luck, Ernie...Captain John Farina says conTineo and Rafal Bien...Good luck, Mylan, on your gratulations to FF Poppa L-107 and FFs Mastriano surgery and welcome back to Desimone from holiand Mingo E-302 for winning the B-Division of the day hernia surgery...Where and who do you live “A-Team” Basketball tournament. with, Bob Tirino?...Keep crying, Lieutenant Mal, on your Cowboys...Best of luck, Paul, on your transSpecial Operations Command fer to Bn-58. You still have a few friends left...Santa

by FF Dennis Maher, SOC paid a visit to E-321 and delivered some new rhinos...Welcome to Probies Tricarick and Phillips.

Special Operations Command offers belated welStay busy and learn...Chauca, nice hat. If it could come to Deputy Chief Bill Seelig and Lieutenants talk, it would cough!...Bull, feel the love later. Finish Brian Kearney and Freddie “the computer” the head instead...“C.B.,” only 30 days left...Hope Vargas and all other new and past members...Best of everyone has a safe and happy New Year...Alpha, luck on their retirements to John Clifford, Charles I’m available!...From E-254/TL-153: The Avenue U Cottone, Dave Gusick, Mike “the mechanic” Watchdawgs congratulate Dave Weisberg on his Maniscalco, “we miss you” Chris McLaughlin, promotion to Lieutenant. We miss you, Dave, and Mike Morrisey, Rich O’Brien, Mike “the fish” wish you the best of luck!...Congratulations to Nick King, Tommy “bucket head” Bosare, Mike Schiavo and Steve Scarpitta on the new additions to Killcomming and Kevin Scalon...Belated congrats their families...Welcome aboard to Brian Mullen to Glen “shriek” Fisher on his promotion to and good luck to Timmy Lyons. Get into the job!...

Lieutenant...Thanks to Bobby “poodles” Pulizzotto A speedy recovery to Scotty Lane, Mike Barbosa on keeping the refrigerator clean...Also, thanks to and Greg “road rash” Santangelo. Maybe you Mike Musich and Tommy Ciangioila and too many should reconsider this whole Chauffeur School thing others to name on a job well-done with the ...Da Pride thanks all the companies that participated Christmas party...SQ-252 congratulates Captains in this year’s Louis Valentino Football Tournament.

John “flying monkey” Feehan and Rob “I don’t Congratulations to the champs: E-205/L-118...There have a hook” McDermott...We also thank and conis lots of news to report. Ryan Whelan E-281 is gratulate Captains Steve Mr. Met Moockler and zhausted from werkin da bar!...Timmy Mattison EJoe Jardin. The men are enjoying the gift...Congrats 281, do yourself a favor and shave your head. You’re to Lieutenant Dave “yeppa” Rodriguez...Welcome bald!...Mike Ugly Betty Kimball L-147 and Brian aboard to our new Lieutenants--Bill Reddan and Florence Nightingale Naylor E-281 finally have

WNYF 1st/2008

Retired Retirees

by Safety Battalion Chief Laurence Hatton (retired) The Gene O’Kane Division of Retired Firefighters in New Port Richie, Florida, is entering its 30th year of establishment. It is a tribute to the founder, Gene O’Kane, and the Brothers who have been with the organization since its start and who still remain active in the group. It is the faith of one man’s wish and perseverance FFs Bob Athanas and Bob Krabbe, Rescue 3, are that inspired this Division of retired immortalized in a charcoal portrait by FF Bruce Firefighters. Today, they have been joined by Howard, Rescue 2 (retired). From time to time, we will many new Brothers and will continue to run some of his work so you can witness the stunning expand in the future and keep the organization likenesses he draws. FF Howard exhibited some of his prosperous...Dan Finegan, President of FDNY Firefighter portraits at the New York City Fire Orange County, NY, Retirees, reports that the Museum in February 2008.

United Retired Firefighters Association, with John Sollazzo, President, now has a website-John “where’s my” Ceriello...Greetings from SQwww.urfa.us. He says that the website has up-to-date 41...Congratulations to Captain Bill “highlights” information on retiree concerns. Orange County has Walsh and Bobby “the duck” Delia on their retirea website that is being developed--www.nycments and Tim “wee man” Parker, promoted to retiredfirefighters-ocny.org. They are still looking for Lieutenant...The buff wars continue with Smitty takmembers of their new pipe and drum band. This is in ing a commanding lead from Kennelly...The Circle addition to their soon-to-be-almost-world-famous of Six no longer is accepting applications...Welcome kazoo band. They are planning their annual gala aboard to our new member, Louie “my Italian event--a dinner/dance/pig roast, which probably will friend” Fema...Congrats to all the new fathers, be the first week in August...Martin/St. Lucie, including Steve G. Who cries more, you or your Florida, Retirees, as well as Broward County baby?...Owen is wondering where his new argyles Retirees, had their annual picnics. Both were wellare...Lindy, Phil is next. Leo and Porra, the fat-on attended. The smoke at both events was so thick that continues...Where in the world is Rob Brown? The “you could lean on it.”...The Martin/St. Lucie, minge doesn’t miss a meal...Manning, sell, sell, Florida, Retirees are planning a cruise on the Royal sell...The Mench, yeah, but Grady, where to next?...

Caribbean, Mariner of the Seas, sailing on May 11, Division 6 deadwood continues in...O’Toole, nice 2008. Another cruise on the Royal Caribbean, job on the foundation for the grill...Apologies to Mariner of the Seas, will set sail on December 7, anyone missed.

2008, from Port Canaveral (Ft. Lauderdale) to Cococay, St. Martin and St. Thomas. For more inforBureau of Fire mation, contact John Carino at fdny@comcast.net Investigation (BFI) ...Broward County, Florida, Retirees had a very nice

by FM Rob McDevitt, BFI, 10-day cruise to Cozumel, Costa Rica and the City-wide North Panama Canal, then on to Cartagena, Colombia and the Dominican Republic...They have a new President--Frank Desiderio. Outgoing President The reports of our demise have Jerry Coffman was designated President Emeritus, been greatly exaggerated. BFI in recognition of his many years of leadership. Ed has opened a new base in Fort Rockwell retired after many years as financial secreTotten, Queens. Stop by and tary. They meet on the fourth Tuesday of each month have an iced tea on the porch. at the Pompano Beach American Legion on South The view out the windows is amazing, but why is 2nd Street. New members are welcome. Contact Scott Ringle sharpening his chain saw? With six Frank at fdnyret99@bellsouth.net...Mick Ennis bathrooms in the new base, how come Pete Connolly has one named after him? The phone system here is great. Bill Law always answers the Dear Chief Spadafora, phone for Bill Rohr. (He just needs to work on his I enjoyed reading your article on John Jay (“The message-taking.)...It’s taken some time to get comPath to Advancement: A Look at the FDNY and John fortable here. Just ask Bill Rohr how comfortable Jay College Education Program,” by Deputy Calcutti was...Mike Bosco retired; they should have Assistant Chief Ronald R. Spadafora in the let him make the arrest...We heard that Tommy 2nd/2007 issue of WNYF).

Boyne was getting the Ner Tamid Society/Franklin You can see from the enclosed request for mutual Delano Roosevelt Medal this year. How high was exchange of tours what the thinking of the Fire that fire, Tom?...Thanks to Kevin O’Donnell for Department was then regarding further education. stepping up to be the Queens liaison with Brooklyn...

The Fire Department has come a long way since Twenty-three new guys were promoted to Fire those hectic days.

Marshal and each has brought a bit of his firehouse Fraternally, with him. It remains to be seen how many will bring Deputy Assistant Chief Alfred P. Mendy (retired) it back to the firehouse. As the famous Woody Charter Member Staff Officers McHale says, “It’s not the lions and the tigers that get you; it’s the mosquitoes.”...We still can’t figure The above letter, written by the 96-year-old out why Bill Mackin was the only new guy to get a retired Chief, included a copy of a Mutual letter of congrats from the UFA executive board...

Exchange of Tours report he had submitted on And, finally, the members of BFI mourn the loss of September 16, 1953. At the time, Chief Mendy was Supervising Fire Marshal Doug Mercereau, who a Battalion Chief, seeking to swap a tour with was murdered in his home on December 2, 2007. He another Battalion Chief in order to attend a course will be missed by all and we ask everyone to keep of instruction at Hofstra University. His request for him in your prayers.

WNYF 1st/2008

I don’t miss the cold.

I don’t miss the heat.

I don’t miss the smoke.

But I will miss the friendships.

I won’t miss fear.

I won’t miss the experiences.

I won’t miss the unknown.

But I will miss the St. Patrick’s Day parade.

I won’t miss the weariness.

I won’t miss the lack of sleep.

I won’t miss the wet boots.

But I will miss the challenge.

I won’t miss the funerals.

I won’t miss the drenched turnouts.

I won’t miss the injuries.

But I will miss the uniform.

I won’t miss seeing the sun rise.

I won’t miss the red eyes.

I won’t miss the late meals.

But I will miss the Brothers!

by Battalion Chief Orlence Dan Orvis, Battalion 44 (retired) reports that at their February meeting, the Phoenix Retirees honored Pete Slane for all he has done for the group. Brother Pete was one of the forefathers of the Phoenix Division, FDNY Retiree group. He got the Brothers together monthly and kept them all up to date on what was happening in the world of the retiree. Mike Charron presented Pete with a Maltese cross medal, donated by the Brothers of the Phoenix Division. Wear it in good health, Pete, and thanks again for all your years of hard work...The Walk Across America by former football Giant George Martin is designed to raise funds for the living victims of 9/11. He hopes to raise $10 million as he walks from the George Washington Bridge to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. The Phoenix Retirees hope to host him as he walks through Arizona. He should be in the Phoenix area sometime in April. Plans are being made to have a ceremony at the Hall of Flame Museum with local police and Firefighters. Other events are being discussed. If you have any questions, please contact Tom Brock at 480-473-0086. Follow George Martin’s journey at www.journeyfor911.info. This website details his everyday activities, as well as how close he is to raising the $10 million goal...Tom Brock mentioned another huge event that will take place on September 11, 2008, at the Tempe Town Lake in Tempe at the Healing Field. The Phoenix Retirees are going to participate, as they did last year, and help erect 3000 flags, along with ribbons and photos of the deceased at the WTC...Keep Pete Madero’s stepdaughter in your thoughts and prayers. The 23-year-old is in the mutual was denied.

Chief Mendy wrote the highest mark on the 1957 Chief of Department examination. He resides in Sun City, Arizona. As you can see by the photos, FDNY is still very much a part of his life.

49

Taking Up October 1-December 31, 2007 Richard S. Hoffman Ladder 135 Richard Kobbe Ladder 133 Larry P. Krepela, Jr. Engine 238 Kirk R. Lester Ladder 30 David P. McGovern Battalion 19 Robert A. Perretta Ladder 84 Roger Pfleging Engine 240 William M. Roberts Ladder 126 Stephen Rossiter Ladder 149 Robert A. Ruggiero Engine 151 Fire Marshals Robert J. Knudsen Queens Base Henry F. Raven (2) Bronx Base Firefighters Arthur Bennett Engine 75 John C. Bull Engine 312 Frank J. Cavaliere Battalion 23 John F. Conroy (2) Engine 83 John A. Crawford, Jr. Engine 236 Luis R. Cruz Engine 64 Jeffrey S. DeBenedetto Ladder 7 Stephen Dempsey Ladder 27 Thomas A. Donato Ladder 85 Nicholas P. Falotico Ladder 146 James T. Ferretti Engine 308 Neil Filipowicz Ladder 84 Daniel J. Filosa Engine 317 Christopher A. Geissler Ladder 79 Daniel R. Godstrey Ladder 9 William H. Gugel Ladder 160 Brian J. Healey Ladder 113 David R. Higgins Engine 312 Jeffrey R. Johnson Engine 74

Florida, battling a tough health problem...Jimmy Donnelly, “Can you say Kennebunkport”?...Great to see Brother Jeff Kaplan in the house. He is doing well after major surgery near his brain...George Pickett made the last five minutes of the meeting after rushing in from Albuquerque. Thanks for the effort, George...John Ferry had three antique company journals for us to peruse. One was from E-252 in 1937. What a great read and the handwriting was exquisite...The 50/50 winner was Jimmy Conmy, again. He wouldn’t split the pot with his brother...

Brother Jeff Kaplan E-279 writes, “To those who remember me, hello!” His e-mail is ksk33@cox.net.

He would like to hear from the Brothers who remember him...Mike Charron L-142 and Bob Strom L-107 are still moonlighting at the age of 75 in Sun Lakes, Arizona...Bill Kelleher sends us the following. He retired from FDNY L-173 on Crossbay Boulevard in 1981. He is putting together a new Fire Department in Maricopa City, Arizona.

“Currently, we have 66 employees and four stations; two temporary and two new brick and mortar stations. We standardized compressed air foam apparatus and provide advanced life support to the citizens of Maricopa. All of our responders are EMTs and we have at least one Paramedic on each responding apparatus. We will begin construction on our third brick and mortar station in July. The city has approximately 40,000 residents now; build-out is estimated at approximately 200,000. The Brothers are always welcome for a tour if they are in the neighborhood.

Our department website is http://www.fdmaricopa .org. The site has quite a few photos of our apparatus, buildings, pipe band and color guard. Best regards to all the Brothers in the Big Apple.”

(William F. Kelleher, Fire Chief; wkelleher@ fdmaricopa.org www.cityofmaricopa.net 44624 West Garvey Avenue, Marciopa, AZ 85239; telephone: 520-568-3333; Fax: 520-568-1415;

ver and three gold medals in the Florida State track mobile: 602-315-0395)...Tom Curley L-117 reports and field championships. He set a meet and State from Central Florida that for a change of venue, record in the “triple jump” at 29 feet, six inches. He they had their 9-11 Memorial in Palm Coast. It was also won the long jump and placed second in the well-attended...Brother Curley added a new twist to 100-meter run...Finally, Steve Hession reports that a the Oktoberfest meeting by having the Brothers retirees group is being formed in The Villages, bring their old helmets and proby pictures. TwentyFlorida. Any former FDNY member interested, five members showed up in their gear and hinted, please contact them via e-mail, FDNY343.org, or “Why not our old uniforms” (the ones that passed contact Bob Kane L-126/L-123 at 352-391-5164. inspections)? Given out were five gag gifts for five categories and the winners were Brothers Von Elsing L-42, Mauro L-103, Meinsen L-176, The Military Gagliano L-103 and Vinnie Julius L-112. Looking at the winners’ helmets, you would think all the fires occurred in Brooklyn during the war years...Annual Christmas party was good, as usual, except that the grandkids were not there, so that meant Santa’s sack was empty. Therefore, Santa proclaimed that all those attending were bad all year...A few of the Brothers (Pedalino, Gander, Ferlisi, McDonald and Curley) ventured to the Maitland Ice Palace to cheer on the visiting FDNY Hockey Team play those dastardly devils, the NYPD. As when they played at the Garden, there was an intense rivalry and it carried on even this far south...The dinner/dance was February 9. We got to see who still has life in those legs...The St. Pat’s party at Deland Moose was on March 11 and the spring picnic will be The family of FF Christian Engeldrum and members of Ladder held on May 3 at River Breeze Park in Oak Hill. Visit the website WWW.FDNY 61 came together at the Fire Academy for the unveiling of a GONESOUTH.COM to see some photos memorial to honor FDNY members who were killed while serv...Dispatcher Ray Lebowitz, now resid- ing in the military. FF Engeldrum was killed in Iraq on November 29, 2004. To date, 44 FDNY members have been ing in Broward County, Florida, qualikilled at war and another four members are missing in action. fied for the 2008 National Senior The memorial features a black helmet for each lost member and Olympics to be held in Spokane, Washington, in August. He won one sil- the name and company numbers where the member served.

50

Brian Kenny Michael J. Killcommons Matthew D. Linitz Joseph P. Lombardo Brian C. Malloy Edward J. Mazzucchelli Thomas M. McGarry, Jr. Daniel M. McGuinn Kenneth G. Miccio Edwin W. Myslinski Daniel J. Newman Michael O’Brien (2) John J. O’Malley Stanley J. Ostrowski Mark M. Pederson John S. Picarello Michael C. Pontillo Robert F. Quinn Joel Quintalino Anthony C. Raimondi Robert Ricciardi Kenneth J. Rogers (2) John R. Sassano, Jr. John Scafidi Kevin M. Scanlon Joseph L. Sciurca Gregory Seda Gerard S. Suden Tellef E. Tellefsen Edward B. Usher Arthur W. Watson Michael R. Wilson William M. Wilson

Engine 165 Ladder 116 Engine 324 Ladder 27 Ladder 80 Ladder 77 Ladder 167 Ladder 173 Engine 220 Rescue 1 Ladder 78 Ladder 46 Haz-Mat 1 Ladder 116 Engine 161 Battalion 21 Engine 90 Engine 313 Engine 4 Division 8 Ladder 134 Ladder 134 Engine 320 Engine 151 Squad 18 Engine 275 Engine 39 Ladder 43 Engine 318 Battalion 14 Ladder 41 Ladder 159 Ladder 4

WNYF 1st/2008

photo by Stephen “Butch” Moran

Deputy Chief James J. Riches ADMOP Battalion Chiefs Michael J. Canty Battalion 57 Michael C. Keenan Battalion 49 Edward F. McSheehy Battalion 12 John T. Rokee Battalion 37 Captains William T. Burke Rescue 5 Michael L. Corabi Division 14 Peter J. DeFeo Engine 152 Paul J. Dombrowsky Ladder 143 Peter L. Gorman Engine 40 Christopher M. King Rescue 3 Vincent J. Leahy Ladder 41 Albert T. Molinaro Engine 230 Mark J. Munnelly Ladder 2 Thomas H. Roche Division 7 Robert J. Wright Ladder 38 Lieutenants James W. Berghorn Ladder 162 Robert J. Blanco Ladder 6 Peter J. Brady Engine 155 Thomas A. Butler Engine 303 Douglas Candella Battalion 32 Peter F. Chadwick Engine 79 John R. Dixon Ladder 26 Gunter Doell Engine 326 Michael J. Falcone Ladder 85 Peter J. Farrenkopf Marine 6 Michael A. Francese Battalion 15 Daniel B. Grogul Battalion 16 Michael Hadden Ladder 14

In Memoriam Name Robert W. Marsh John T. Nixon Paul A. Thompson Raymond D. Hauber Charles J. Tripi Raymond McDermott Edward T. Leavay Edmund J. Regulinski Michael Blangiardo John D. Becker John A. Keigharn Charles Leisenheimer George A. Johnson Alfred R. Allen David G. Farrell Angelo Perrone Anthony F. Heimink James S. Lytell John T. McQueen Matthew G. Straub William P. Gillespie John F. Shields John T. Conwell Louis F. Gaffney James J. Savastano, Jr. John V. Regan James Horton James F. Gillece John W. Sawula Victor J. Dispensa Peter McBrearty Thomas M. Carroll William J. Harris Hugh K. Rodden Bernard Rottler, Jr.

Unit Appointed Bn-22 2/10/62 L-9 10/19/57 E-275 4/1/68 E-284 4/15/89 E-254 9/21/57 Fire Prev. 2/1/55 Bn-32 9/16/42 E-207 9/15/51 Bn-42 1/1/39 MSU 6/29/61 E-326 1/7/61 E-304 12/30/65 Bn-31 9/29/73 L-140 6/16/53 E-37 8/5/85 E-263 12/8/62 E-303 8/1/48 LSS 1/1/38 Fire Salv. 8/14/65 E-229 6/17/52 L-125 9/25/82 E-313 11/1/45 LSS 1/1/55 L-76 10/23/65 Bn-4 12/17/77 Fire Prev. 3/1/37 LSS 7/1/40 E-251 3/1/53 L-152 6/21/58 L-28 11/15/48 L-112 7/11/81 L-130 8/1/55 Bn-9 8/1/55 E-304 8/9/69 Fire Comm. 2/1/57 Capt. David Sherman (2) E-243 2/1/43 Capt. Martin J. Ford E-93 1/1/47 Lt. Elwood J. Pearsall L-82 1/1/47 FM John J. Kelleher BFI 1/1/57 FF Joseph A. Janner E-271 10/12/37 FF George S. Remsen E-301 11/1/52 Lt. Alfred Croce E-46 9/16/42 FF John J. McCarron L-114 2/20/60 FF James P. O’Boyle L-9 4/1/39 FF Donald Farrell L-12 6/15/57 FF Thomas Carr L-61 12/30/65 Lt. James Stephens L-127 9/16/42 FF Henry J. McGillicuddy L-17 11/13/74 FF William J. Sharp E-7 6/14/58 FF Philip Ciaccio Bn-42 6/10/63 FM George J. Rucinski BFI 3/22/69 FF David A. Petit L-76 8/20/66 BC Frank J. D’Amico Bn-22 6/15/52 Lt. Ralph J. Stevenson L-32 4/13/60 Lt. Robert Brown L-110 2/9/63 FF Dominick T. Errichetti E-161 10/10/59 FF John A. Dondiego LSS 7/25/59 Capt. Ronald J. Bollmeyer L-118 12/19/59 FF William P. Wilson E-89 6/5/67 FF Charles P. Lustenring E-319 1/1/55

WNYF 1st/2008

Retired 9/11/92 2/1/88 2/29/96 3/3/06 9/28/77 8/28/75 1/8/74 11/8/83 3/1/74 9/22/85 10/1/91 12/29/86 9/30/98 6/18/76 10/31/93 4/12/80 4/1/60 1/2/66 7/7/89 1/9/87 6/25/93 10/2/78 10/31/78 10/29/76 Active 4/15/72 10/28/71 10/9/76 12/24/85 10/2/89 10/16/99 2/1/90 3/7/90 10/23/87

Deceased 8/2/07 8/2/07 8/2/07 8/4/07 8/5/07 8/6/07 8/7/07 8/9/07 8/10/07 8/11/07 8/11/07 8/11/07 8/13/07 8/14/07 8/16/07 8/16/07 8/17/07 8/20/07 8/20/07 8/20/07 8/23/07 8/27/07 8/27/07 8/27/07 10/9/07 8/29/07 8/31/07 8/31/07 9/1/07 9/5/07 9/6/07 9/15/07 9/9/07 9/9/07

4/2/72 12/31/77 10/9/76 1/8/71 12/5/79 1/3/73 12/14/80 3/23/64 1/15/83 1/12/60 5/28/76 12/28/77 10/9/63 12/28/77 10/5/79 8/30/77 4/19/95 2/28/97 7/3/87 2/1/87 4/13/90 9/30/87 2/5/67 1/8/83 7/4/87 8/1/87

9/9/07 9/10/07 9/12/07 9/12/07 9/15/07 9/16/07 9/20/07 9/22/07 9/22/07 9/22/07 9/8/07 9/10/07 9/24/07 9/25/07 9/25/07 8/31/07 9/28/07 9/23/07 10/1/07 10/1/07 10/2/07 10/2/07 10/4/07 10/6/07 10/7/07 10/10/07

Rank Name FF Nicholas Johnson FF FF FF FF Capt.

FF FF FF FF Capt.

FF SFM FF FF Capt.

Lt. FF FF FF Capt.

FF BC Capt.

FF FF Lt. FF Lt. Lt. Lt. FM Lt. FF FF Lt. FF FF FF FF ME FF FF FF FF FF FF AC

Charles Maeurer Bernard F. Schwarz Timothy P. Killarney Gregory J. Donnell William H. Fritz John E. Harris Ernest T. Hughes Charles Vislocky Robert H. Stegman Edwin L. Smith Robert Rodriguez Douglas Mercereau John A. Cassera George A. Christian Kenneth P. Favreau Edward J. Janda Thomas M. Shaw Raymond J. Wild Mortimer P. Nolan Raymond O. Cosenza William J. Powers William A. Shaw (1) Leo Lieberman Frank T. Hogan James J. Lee John J. McCarthy (5) Henry J. Byrne Thomas W. Menton Maurice Walsh Dion C. Hart Julius Salas William J. Rogers Peter Feeney Edmund V. Polanski John H. Martinson Roger T. Peterson Fred Ruprecht Harry J. Grimaldi Frank P. Kiel John T. Feeley Walter J. Hoffman Daniel Collins Rolfe Tandberg Jerome Martin Philip P. Biondo John J. Cioffi Edward D. Kalletta

FF FF

Attilio Orsetti James J. Hogan

Unit Appointed Fire Museum 7/1/57 L-126 11/21/42 Amb-1 9/16/51 L-126 8/7/82 E-239 11/7/81 E-48 11/1/58 E-321 6/16/53 E-70 1/1/55 E-67 3/15/48 E-259 1/4/62 E-308 1/24/59 L-31 11/29/69 ADMBFI 10/15/95 E-88 8/1/55 E-222 3/1/38 Div. 6 1/1/53 E-315 9/16/42 E-17 1/1/48 E-8 1/1/38 L-135 8/1/49 E-163 8/4/62 Bn-47 4/1/39 Bn-33 12/17/37 Bn-23 11/1/55 SL-21 11/1/58 E-84 11/5/77 L-131 8/1/48 E-44 11/16/55 E-38 7/16/47 E-26 3/30/60 E-330 8/27/60 BFI 3/21/70 L-163 10/6/62 E-313 9/25/82 E-240 7/16/47 E-249 5/9/93 L-137 2/16/99 L-140 8/12/63 L-38 6/16/51 L-164 6/16/53 MAU 2/1/44 L-125 1/1/47 E-211 11/17/58 SQ-1 9/1/39 L-140 4/6/63 E-62 10/14/69 Fire Prev. 11/1/52 Brooklyn Boro Cmnd. 6/19/44 LSS 3/28/37 L-125 1/23/60

Retired Deceased 7/3/75 8/7/63 1/2/75 Active 5/11/91 12/17/78 6/30/83 10/1/88 2/15/70 6/1/84 7/26/89 2/10/89 Active 2/5/77 7/16/58 4/30/77 7/5/75 1/3/71 8/11/60 4/3/72 7/2/87 8/19/59 1/22/73 10/15/86 3/29/78 7/3/95 1/2/70 1/3/78 3/1/76 2/1/83 6/1/69 5/30/97 10/1/77 3/1/05 3/12/76 Active Active 7/3/75 10/23/70 1/2/75 2/17/64 11/22/75 1/25/90 5/1/53 10/20/84 7/24/92 2/10/75

10/11/07 10/11/07 10/12/07 11/22/07 10/12/07 10/13/07 10/14/07 10/15/07 10/18/07 10/19/07 10/22/07 10/22/07 12/2/07 10/24/07 10/25/07 10/27/07 10/27/07 10/27/07 10/28/07 11/1/07 11/3/07 11/3/07 11/5/07 11/5/07 11/6/07 11/7/07 11/8/07 11/8/07 11/10/07 11/11/07 11/12/07 11/12/07 11/14/07 11/14/07 11/14/07 1/3/08 1/3/08 11/14/07 11/15/07 11/15/07 11/18/07 11/19/07 11/20/07 9/1/07 11/20/07 11/21/07 11/21/07

7/23/77 11/22/07 8/16/48 11/22/07 3/10/80 11/23/07 photo by FDNY Photo Unit

Rank BC Lt. FF FF FF Lt. BC Lt. BC FF FF FF Lt. FF FF FF FF BC Lt. FF FF Capt.

FF FF BC FF Capt.

FF Lt. Lt. Lt. Capt.

FF FF FF

51

5-5-5-5

Died in the Line of Duty

Lieutenant John H. Martinson Engine Company 249 Died on January 3, 2008, as a result of injuries sustained in the performance of duty at Brooklyn Box 22-3762.

Appointed May 9, 1993.

52

WNYF 1st/2008

Brooklyn Box 22-1247, 130 Fifth Avenue, November 6, 2007.

Manhattan Box 44-1358, 269 West 113th Street/Powell Boulevard, January 21, 2008.

Bronx Box 55-3220, 2139 White Plains Road, February 4, 2008.

all photos by FF Michael Gomez, Squad 288

Back Step

Brooklyn Box 33-2442, 1158 Flatbush Avenue, November 6, 2007.

Bronx Box 22-2899, 1148 Colgate/Westchester Avenues, November 17, 2007.

Queens Box 75-4300, 126th Street/11th Avenue, College Point, February 10, 2008.