FD Rant News Volume 4 Edition 1 January 2015
The #1 Publication for the Long Island Fire Service
NORTHPORT Heavy Fire with Fatality Page 6
SETAUKET
Putting the Tool to Work Page 11
POINT LOOKOUT-LIDO Santa Comes for a Visit Page 19
NORTH AMITYVILLE Multiple Rescues Made Page 64
FD Rant News Volume 4 Edition 1 January 2015
Northport, N.Y. 11768 516.852.4965 FDRantNews@verizon.net
Cover Photo by Jeff DiLavore
Page 2 Page 3 Pages 4 - 5 Pages 22 - 24 Photo by Chris Sabella
Pages 38- 42 Pages 48 - 49 Pages 52 - 53 Pages 54 - 55
Photo by Kevin Madigan
Pages 58 - 59 Pages 84 - 89
Table of Contents Editorial Faces of the Fire Services Talkin’ Fire Stuff By Mike Capoziello The Radio Room by Phil Lichtenberger Apparatus of the Fire Service Centerfold The Back of the Bus By Tom Cronogue Faces of the Fire Service NY Wildlife Incident Management By Bill Fonda
Production Staff
Photo by Chris Coletti All news articles, photographs, images, illustrations, audio clips, video clips, trademarks, designs, graphics, logos, icons, images, user interfaces, visual interfaces and computer code (“Content”) contained in FD Rant News is either owned or used under license by Sophan Publishing, LLC with ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. The Content contained in this publication is protected by United States Copyright Law and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, displayed, published or broadcast without prior permission of Sophan Publishing, LLC or the owner of that Content.
Jeff DiLavore
Brian Welliver
Dave Cook
Holly Luscher
Editor/Publisher Associate Editor
Technical Editor Graphic Editor
Submit Stories and/or Photos to: FDRantNews@verizon.net
Correspondents Andrew Carpenter Ken Bradbury Chris Colletti Kevin Conn Robert DeNaro Eric Devine Lauren Foschino Robert Garofalo Fred Kopf Paul Krussmann Tom Lambui Kevin Madigan Ralph Moniello Brian Olsen Dominic Orlando Chris Sabella Ron Schankin Chris Seidensticker Matt Thomas Kim Versheck John Walthers Cameron Wilken
Contributing Authors Tom Cronogue
Phil Lichtenberger Jim McNamara Mike Capoziello Don Prince Pete Silver Duane Welliver Tim Ivers Jeff O’Toole
Be sure to send contact information including name, phone number and email address.
FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
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FD Rant News Volume 4 Edition 1 January 2015
The #1 Publication for the Long Island Fire Service
Sadness. It is the only word that I can use to describe the events that have taken place since our last publication. During a time of year when most people are celebrating joy and happiness, the Long Island Fire Service was struck with the news that all of us dread to hear. A man, a firefighter, an Ex-Assistant Chief, was critically injured in a fire in Woodmere on December 20th. Inwood Fire Department Past Assistant Chief Joseph “Junior” Sanford was on a mutual aid assignment in Woodmere when he became trapped in the basement of a private residential structure fire. Chief Sanford was removed from the basement in cardiac arrest before he was resuscitated by EMS crews on scene and transported to St. Johns Hospital in Far Rockaway where he was stabilized and then transferred to North Shore University Hospital in Manhasset. For the next several days he battled to survive as he lay in the Intensive Care Unit with a ventilator helping him to breathe. He was removed from life support on December 23rd. Sadly, Chief Sanford succumbed to his injuries. It was the next day, on Christmas Eve, that we saw what the meaning of the word Brotherhood is all about. With very little notice and without hesitation, the members of the Long Island Fire Service mobilized its manpower and its resources and showed their collective respect for one of their own who had made the Supreme Sacrifice. Over 100 fire departments mobilized to participate in a procession to transport Chief Sanford’s body from Manhasset to the Nassau County Medical Examiner’s Office in East Meadow. There was a sea of arches flying giant American flags along the route as the Inwood Fire Department Ambulance proceeded along the route. Nothing, not the foul weather, nor the holiday, kept the men and women of the Long Island Fire Service from paying their respects to a man who had served his fire department and his community faithfully for over 17 years. As the procession proceeded down Hempstead Turnpike, members of the fire service stood at attention and saluted as Chief Sandford passed them by, most of the people never having met the man, but showing their respect for the sacrifice that he made. Likewise, that same respect was evident when thousands of members; both in uniform and not, converged on the small town of Inwood on December 30th, for the firematic services and again on New Year’s Eve at the Greenfield Cemetery in Uniondale. Anyone who has never put on a uniform may never understand the bond that exists among members of the fire service. It would be foolish to expect them to. To those of us who continue to wear the uniform, continue to be vigilant and remember one of the most simple, yet powerful messages that we all have learned throughout the years……Everyone Goes Home. All of us here at FD Rant News offer our sincerest condolences to Chief Sanford’s family, and friends. We also offer condolences to the members of the Inwood Fire Department and all departments and members that operated at the ill-fated fire. Rest in peace Chief. We dedicate this month’s edition in your memory. As always, we would like to hear back from you. If you have any questions or comments, please contact us at: FDRantNews@verizon.net or call us at 516-852-4965. Ex-Chief Jeff DiLavore Publisher
FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
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FACES OF THE FIRE SERVICE
PHOTO BY Lee Genser | Manhasset-Lakeville Deputy Chief Mark Kiess [8701], Deputy Chief Kirk Candan [8704] and Chief of Department Michael Farrone [8705] at a recent vehicle fire.
PHOTO BY Jeff DiLavore | Westbury Captain on the scene of a recent Hazmat alarm.
PHOTO BY Jeff DiLavore | Northport Assistant Chief John Jacobsen [2-9-32] on the scene of a recent working fire.
PHOTO BY Paul Krussmann | A Lieutenant from Rescue 5 in Levittown at a recent working fire.
FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
PHOTO BY John Walthers | Mastic Beach Fire Fighters gear up to recover car at recent water rescue.
PHOTO BY Jeff DiLavore | Northport member Pete Cross [L] and East Northport Chief Mechanic John Cetta [R] on the scene of a recent fire.
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PHOTO BY Kathy Dunne | Members of the Lakeview Fire Department recently conducted Operation Santa.
PHOTO BY Jeff DiLavore | Northport Engine Co 1 Captain William Forster, Jr operates on the scene of a recent working fire.
PHOTO BY Paul Partain | East Farmingdale Cheif Duane Welliver [1-5-33] getting his helmet dirty at his first fire as chief in North Amityville
PHOTO BY Kevin Madigan | Members of the Nassau County Technical Rescue Advisory Committee [NTRAC] at a recent drill.
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NORTHPORT
Heavy Fire and Fatality
Story and Photos by Jeff DiLavore – FD Rant News
On Friday morning December 5th, the Northport Fire Department was dispatched to signal 13 [structure fire] at 52 Theron Place near West Street shortly after 0740 hours. Additional information given to Chief Joe Pansini [2-9-30] was that Suffolk PD was on scene with fire showing out of the front door of that location. Upon his arrival, he transmitted a 13/35 [working fire] and requested mutual aid from East Northport for a RIT and Centerport for an engine to the scene. Reports from neighbors on scene were that an occupant of the home was unaccounted for after re-entering the home to rescue her pets. With heavy fire showing from the front of the building, entry was not possible. Engine 2-9-8 arrived on scene, secured a water supply and the crew began to attack the fire with hand lines. The home was located on a very narrow roadway with power lines in front of the building which limited access to other apparatus. Assistant Chief John Jacobsen [2-9-32] also arrived on scene to direct operations. There were two 100 pound propane cylinders that were being threatened by the fire that were disconnected FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
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and removed from harm’s way. The heavy fire on the 1st floor was darkened down and the deceased victim was located just inside the front door of the residence. It was learned later that the resident had initially escaped the home but re-entered to try to save her pets. The well advanced fire continued to burn throughout the residence as crews were temporarily pulled out of the structure and an exterior attack ensued. In all, 3 hand lines were put into operation to bring the fire under control. Greenlawn sent an ambulance to the scene while Eatons Neck sent an ambulance and Kings Park an engine to standby at Northport’s quarters during the alarm. Suffolk County Fire Coordinators Scott Dalrymple [FC 205], Ken Kutner [FC 203] and Phil Tepe [FC 204] were also on scene to assist with the operation. The Suffolk County Arson Squad was notified for the investigation. Click Here for More Photos
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MASTIC BEACH
Car Strikes Fence and Tree
Story and Photos by John Walthers FD Rant News / Suffolk Fire Photos
Late at night on November 29th, the Mastic Beach Fire Department and ambulance company were both activated to respond to an MVA with injuries on Knapp Road off Barclay Drive. Upon arrival of responding units, they found a car resting up against a tree with both occupants still in the vehicle. After assisting the first occupant out of the vehicle, crews went to work to remove pieces of the car with hydraulic tools to free the second occupant. Once freed, both occupants were transported to local a hospital for treatment. All units took up from the scene at about 11:20 PM.
WANTAGH Two Car MVA
Story and Photo by Paul Krussmann On the afternoon of November 25, 2014 the Wantagh Fire Department received a call for a motor vehicle accident at the intersection of Wantagh Avenue and Jerusalem Avenue with one aided. When Wantagh safety officer 6920 arrived on scene, he advised that he had two cars involved with two injuries. Ambulances 6918 and 6919 along with EMS fly car 6969 arrived at scene and began patient care. Engine 692 was on scene to take care of the fuel spill and both victims were transported to Nassau University Medical Center with minor injuries. FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
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ISLAND PARK
Hosts Drill for Local Boy Scouts Story and photos by Kevin Madigan K2M Photography
On Sunday, November 23, 2014 the Island Park Fire Department opened up the bay doors of their Long Beach Road based fire headquarters to the Island Park Cub Scouts. The scouts were given the opportunity to see the fire apparatus firsthand and ask any questions that they may have. After a tour of the firehouse and apparatus within it the scouts along with the Island Park firefighters that were on hand made their way to the Island Park Fire Department’s training facility. It was here that firefighters prepared a car fire drill for the scouts to see. Those present were able to see firsthand what it would be like pulling up to a working car fire and see how it is contained. Click Here for More Photos
NORTH PATCHOGUE
MVA with Overturn Sends 3 to Hospital Story and Photos by Kevin Conn
Click Here for More Photos
FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
On Thanksgiving, November 27, 2014, at about 1745 hours the North Patchogue Fire Department was activated for an auto accident with an overturn at Waverly Avenue and the Sunrise Highway North Service Road. 5-17-31 took command with 5-17-32 also responding and upon arrival, command notified incoming units that all occupants were out of the 2 vehicles, with a total of 3 aided to be transported. Heavy Rescue 5-17-5 responded and secured the vehicles and assisted the ambulance crews of 5-1716, 5-17-17, 5-17-20 which each transported one patient to Brookhaven Memorial Hospital for evaluation and treatment of their injuries. Page 9
MANORVILLE Chimney Fire
Story and Photos by Kevin Conn On Thanksgiving, November 27, 2014, at about 2132 hours the Manorville Fire Department was activated for a structure fire at 3 Brenda Lane. Upon arrival of 1st Assistant Chief Sal D’Amato [5-16-31] and 2nd Assistant Chief Danowski [5-16-32] they found the top of a chimney was involved with fire. Engines 5-165 and 5-16-7 arrived on scene followed by ladder 5-16-6. Engine crews stretched two 1¾” hand lines, taking one to the rear of the house and sending one up to the roof. The fire was quickly knocked down with little damage to the house besides the chimney. Crews set up fans to clear the house of smoke and the Town of Brookhaven Fire Marshal was requested to the scene to investigate the cause of the fire. No injuries were reported as Manorville Ambulance Company stood by at the scene. Click here for More Photos
FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
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FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
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NORTHPORT vs. EAST NORTHPORT Annual Turkey Bowl
Story and Photos by John Mancino
The annual Thanksgiving Turkey Bowl between the Northport and East Northport Fire Departments took place at the Ocean Avenue School on a very cold and snowy Thanksgiving morning. Both teams were made up of the adult firefighters and were supplemented by the Junior firefighters of both departments. East Northport won the Game which means Northport has to hold the second place trophy. Lunch was hosted by East Northport for all to enjoy the camaraderie of the firefighter brother-sisterhood. A great time was had by all and no one got hurt. For more information visit www.northportfd.org
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SETAUKET
ENTRAPMENT ON 347
Story and Photos by Chris Sabella On Friday afternoon November 28, 2014 the Setauket Fire Department responded to an MVA involving a car and a van at the intersection of Nicholls Road and Nesconset Highway. One of the vehicles was partially overturned. Crews went to work attempting to remove to trapped subjects using spreaders and cutters to remove the roof after stabilizing the car with jacks. The extrication took about 20 minutes and both patients were removed and transported by both Setauket and Port Jefferson VAC ambulances to Stony Brook University Hospital.
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HEMPSTEAD
Susicious Fire in Vacant House Story and Photos by Lauren Chenault Additional Photos by Patrick McNeill
Click Here for More Photos
On Saturday November 29th, around 730pm the Hempstead Fire Department was alerted for a report of a house fire on Grove Street. Upon arrival a working fire was transmitted with heavy fire in the back of the house. Assistant Chief Roger Faulk [81] and Assistant Chief Charlie Hendry [82] were in command. The house was vacant at the time but there was evidence of squatters and the Hempstead PD reported the house being a "death trap" and to watch every step that was taken. There were numerous holes that were cut in the floors which made it hard for firefighters to navigate. West Hempstead was notified for the FAST with Baldwin, Uniondale and Lakeview also providing mutual aid either to the scene or to standby. There was a gas can found in the house and the Nassau County Fire Marshal’s office was requested for the investigation.
FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
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FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
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COMMACK VAC
Charter Member Joe Caruso Joe Caruso, one of Commack Volunteer Ambulance Corps founding members, recognized in 1966 the need for ambulance services in the Commack area, an organized a group of individuals to get the organization started. He passed away on November 28, 2014 at the age of 93. Joe was a 48 year member; he was a past President/Chief, past Board Member and Board Chairman. Additionally, he founded and was an Advisor of the CVAC Youth Squad for members 15- 17 years old, Most recently, he was the annual “Santa Claus" since CVAC's Operation Frosty began in 1999, bringing cheer to children throughout the Commack community. Joe also served his country admirably in World War II with the 385th Bomb Group.Department services were held on Sunday evening November 29th at Clayton's Funeral Home and he was buried at Calverton National cemetery. Editor’s Note: All of us here at FD Rant News would like to send our condolences to the Caruso family and to the members of the Commack Volunteer Ambulance Corps on the loss of Joe Caruso. He truly had an impressive career of helping others. Rest in peace. – Jeff D.
MASTIC
Two Cars, Two Victims
Story and photos by T. J. Lambui FD Rant News/LiHotShots On Sunday, November 30th, a two car MVA occurred at the intersection of Titmus Drive and Ardmour Drive at approximately 21:45 hours; sending two people to a local hospital. The SCPD 7th Precinct, Mastic F.D., and Mastic Volunteer Ambulance Corp. responded to the accident which involved a Jaguar 4-dr. sedan and Nissan Maxima. FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
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HUNTINGTON
Town of Huntington Fifth Annual Holiday Parade
Story by Kevin Burke Photos by Jackie Canino and Kevin Burke On November 29 the Town of Huntington held its fifth Annual Holiday Parade. Fire departments from all over Long Island came to participate in the event. The 2013 winner was the Greenlawn fire department, who arrived with Santa while this year’s winner was Crocco’s Landscaping.
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NORTH AMITYVILLE Early Morning Work
Story and Photos by Kim Versheck – LNBN Around 2:30 am on December 2nd, 2014 the North Amityville Fire Company was alerted to a reported house fire on 43rd Street. As firefighters turned out for the alarm, the dispatcher advised that North Lindenhurst was being alerted for a full department response and SCPD was on scene reporting a fire. North Amityville Engine 1-7-1 was first due and took position just past the home and put the 1st of 3 lines in to service. North Amityville 3rd Assistant Chief Benloss [1-7-33] and North Lindenhurst Chief Baranowski [1-11-30] set up command as North North Amityville House Fire - LNBN Lindenhurst units arrived. Heavy fire conditions on the second floor quickly worked its way thru the roof and caused a partial collapse of the roof. Copiague set up as the FAST team and Amityville stood by with an ambulance. Crews were able to extinguish the fire in about 40 minutes but had to deal with a few hot spots from ladders during overhaul due to the collapse. No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is still under investigation.
FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
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BOHEMIA
26th Christmas Parade
Story and Photos by Ken Bradbury On Sunday, December 6th the Bohemia Fire Department hosted their Annual Christmas parade for the twenty-sixth time. The parade kicked off at 5 PM sharp under the direction of Chief Rich Anderson and featured Christmas themed floats made by their neighboring departments. The winning department took home the Float Leg Trophy and this year’s winner was from the West Sayville Fire Department. Bohemia, Holbrook, West Sayville, Sayville, Holtsville, Farmingville, Lakeland, Ronkonkoma, Central Islip, East Brentwood, Islip Terrace, East Islip, Deer Park where this years entries.
http://deerparkfirephoto.smugmug.com/ Category/120714-Bohemia-Christmas/i-CLDSz5R
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MASTIC BEACH Holiday Food Drive
Story and Photos by John Walthers FD Rant News/Suffolk Fire Photos On the weekend of December 13th, the members of the Mastic Beach Ambulance Company braved the cold weather yet again. However, this time it was not to respond to an ambulance call. This year the ambulance company held a “Fill an ambulance food drive� at Handy Panty on Neighborhood Road. The members stood outside in uniform talking to residents and collecting donations of Non Perishable food. The crew also mentioned they would be out the following Sunday to hopefully fill another ambulance.
MASTIC BEACH
MVA by Headquarters
Story and Photos by John Walthers FD Rant News/Suffolk Fire Photos On December 4th, at about 8:20 pm, the Mastic Beach Fire Department was alerted to respond to an MVA in the vicinity of their Headquarters on Neighborhood Rd. between Doris Dr. and Mastic Rd. Rescue 4 was the first unit to arrive on scene and its members quickly went to work to make sure no one was trapped in the vehicles; one of which was up against a tree on the sidewalk. Members then went to work, securing the vehicle and cleaning up the fluids that had leaked onto the sidewalk and road. Members of the Mastic Beach Ambulance Company transported at least 1 person who was involved to a local hospital. All members took up at about 8:50 pm. The scene was turned over to police who waited on scene for the village to come take care of the tree. FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
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YAPHANK Car Fire Handled
Story and photos by T. J. Lambui FD Rant News/LiHotShots On Monday, December 1st at approximately 13:10 hours, the Yaphank Fire Department was called to 95 Horseblock Road for a car fire at the Adesa Auto Auction car storage lot. A few other cars were damaged due to their close proximity to the fully involved vehicle. This is the second car fire at the Adesa complex in the past two weeks. The fire marshal’s office is investigating.
POINT LOOKOUT-LIDO Doors Open to Waterfront Warriors
Story and photo by Kevin Madigan - K2M Photography
On Sunday, December 7th, 2014 the Long Beach Waterfront Warriors held their sixth annual Holiday for Heroes Toy Drive. For the first time the event was held at Point Lookout Fire Headquarters, located at 102 Lido Boulevard in Point Lookout. The toy drive collected unwrapped toys for children spending the holiday season at Walter Reed, a hospital in our Nation’s Capital that specializes in treating members of the United States Armed Forces. Those who donated an unwrapped toy Click Here for More Photos were able to get a free photo with Santa, who was For anyone seeking more information transported to the firehouse on Long Beach Engine 2341. Face painting, Christmas trees and decorations, along regarding this cause: http://www.lbwaterfrontwarriors.org/ with Long Beach Waterfront Warriors apparel was also available inside of the second battalion based firehouse. FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
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TALKIN’ FIRE STUFF By Mike Capoziello
Have We Have Accepted Failure? Part 2 Last time we discussed the somewhat acceptance of the volunteer fire service to accept delays in responses as “ok.” In reality these failures happen more often and can have bigger ramifications then some of the other failures that occur during alarms. Let’s look at some actions that can be taken by leaders of departments that are affected by this problem. Some of these can be started immediately others will take some time and planning to implement. The first step is to recognize the situation and not take the attitude of “these things happen from time to time in the volunteer fire service.” Examine your alarm data and find out if there are certain times during the day, week or year when these situations are happening. Is there a pattern here? Is there an obvious reason why this is happening? Are these response problems temporary or long term? “Size up” your department’s response patterns. Has there been a change in your reliable “day crew?” Maybe the 2 retired guys you counted on as your everyday chauffeurs are going south for the winter months. The younger guys who made up the day time summer crew are going back to school in September. Your 95% attendance AMT has now gotten a new full time job. Don’t be afraid to ask what’s going on and adjust and evaluate your procedures based on this information. Some things you can do immediately…. Written procedures and mutual aid- If you do not have some sort of written automatic mutual aid procedure with your dispatch agency in the event your department can not get out for an alarm you need to do so immediately. You need to insure that if a Chief or line officer is not in town to call the shots; your dispatcher is going to follow a set of pre-planned instructions insuring your alarms are handled. If you do have procedures in place re-evaluate them. Do you have a pre-determined re-alert time in your procedures? Is the re-alert time at present to long? Based on your analysis of your trouble hours does the time have to be shortened or should you have an automatic mutual aid system set up with a neighboring department or departments? Do you need to add a mutual aid Engine on all telephone alarms for structure fires during the day? Remember as a Chief of department you are responsible for the end results. Duty crews/In house crews- Try to implement a duty crew system in which members who are assigned will be responsible to respond to alarms during their duty crew hours. Find out how many people are available during your problem hours and break them into groups. They do not have to be at the firehouse, but will have to make sure they can be available to respond during their crew’s duty hours. One of the problems that can occur with a home response system is one in which a member may be available but is involved with something minor and thinks to himself, “I know John is off, he will go drive”, not knowing John is thinking the same thing about him. The end result, no one came to drive when in reality both drivers could have broken away with what they were doing if they knew each other’s situations. Having set crews and responsibilities eliminates this problem.
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This system works well during over nights in a home response system. Especially on EMS runs. The assigned crew members know it’s their responsibility for that night. If something comes up members can get someone to cover their shift or do a swap with someone. If you have never tried a system like this it’s worth the effort to give it a try. Most if not all LI Departments use the home response model in answering alarms. Consider changing to in house crews during designated times. This sort of system can also build “Esprit de corps”…morale. The crews can eat meals together use the time to drill or preplan and especially enjoy the bragging rights of a “fast response.” The different crews or shifts can even compete against each other. Hell they can even buy their own “puffy jackets” as a way to build morale. You would be surprised how many members would be interested in doing a system like this. One problem that might arise however is that a designated crew may spend an 8 hour shift together and have no alarms. Since most departments requirements are based around a percentage system for alarms the crew that was in house gets no credit for this time spent. This brings us to the next point in this discussion. Percentage based systems vs. minimum hours per month You may have to consider changing the way you maintain requirements for alarms. Instead of having a member responsible for a percentage of calls for the month/year, consider modifying it to take into account hours worked. Especially if you are going to try in house standby crews. To some departments this is a drastic measure. “Change the way we have been doing things!” “Never, it’s worked since 1918!” Times have changed and it’s time to change with them. You may even get a few new members based on a system like this. Some people willing to volunteer may find it easier to know in advance when they will be scheduled for a shift at the firehouse. Someone may not be sure if they can guarantee you 25% of a month’s alarms, but can guarantee you 30 hours a month. Sometimes you have to think outside the box and do what works even when the idea is something that has never been tried before. I hope we can all agree on this. The following thoughts are solutions that will take time to implement and plan for…. College live in programs- Hoftsra University, Adelphi University, Stony Brook University, New York Institute of Technology, Nassau and Suffolk counties have many renowned and sought after colleges. I’m surprised no fire district or company has adapted the idea of a live in program, such as the ones popular in Pennsylvania and Maryland. These programs are doing very well in helping these volunteer departments solve their daytime response problems. Here is a list of stuff that’s offered by most departments who run such a program: • • • • • • • •
Free living accommodations. Dorm style rooms with own cable tv’s, DVD player and air conditioners. High speed internet access. In house workout room. Free training. Washer and dryers. Full kitchen. NO FUND RASING DUTY.
All very doable for a LI volunteer department if they started such a program. In fact I’m sure a department could get a grant to alter interiors or add additions to existing firehouses if needed.
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Check out these departments who do live in programs. http://www.hvfd.com/join/live-in-program/ - Hyattsville Fire Dept. Prince George’s County MD www.exetertwpfire25.com - Exeter Township Fire Dept. Berks County PA www.bavfc.org - Bel Air Fire Co. Hartford County MD Explorers/Juniors program - Although this will not fill your needs immediately it is one of the best programs a fire department can invest in. Most fire departments that have a program such as this usually end up with a steady stream of recruits each year. Another benefit of this program is the people you have joining actually know what they are getting themselves into having been around the fireground and firehouse prior to being sworn into the active roles. You as a Chief or Officer will also have had the time to get to know the individual as well. You know the qualities, strengths and weaknesses of these candidates faster than the person who comes in off the street. For more info check out… http://exploring.learningforlife.org And http://juniors.nvc.org Consolidation - The dreaded “C” word for firefighters. If you are a Chief of a department that really has its problems with no end in sight and you have tried many of the steps in this article already, then you really should look at the reality of consolidating with a neighboring department or departments. Not an easy step or decision to make, however it may be your only solution to the problem. Keep this in mind, if things are that bad it’s only a matter of time before some “bad stuff ” happens where local politicians or government get involved. It will be better to do this step on your terms rather then it being forced on you by politicians who just don’t “get it.” How are others doing it - Believe it or not some volunteer departments do not have these problems. There is usually a mix of the two examples in every area using a volunteer system. Look to these departments who do not have response problems and network with them. Find out how they are running things. Maybe they are using some of these methods and maybe they have some other ideas you can try. What are their organizational models? Can you adapt this style to your department? These are a few examples of things to try in reducing your response times short of hiring paid personnel. For many fire departments these may be your only choices as you just do not have the money to hire even if you wanted to. Again it all falls on the Chiefs shoulders. Sometimes it’s about making hard choices that may not be popular, however you can’t lose focus of the reason we are here. To respond to the public’s emergencies in a timely matter. Until next time be safe and keep em’ rolling! Mike Capoziello is a 28 year member of Hook and Ladder Co. #2 and former Chief [2011-12] of the Elmont Fire Department. He serves as a Department Training Officer, Public Information Officer and Historian. He has 20 plus years’ experience as a houseman and dispatcher in various Nassau County departments and is currently a Supervising dispatcher with Nassau County Firecom, training officer for the Fieldcom unit, member of the Nassau County Fire Service Critical Incident Stress team for the past 11 years and is a liaison for the team to the Nassau County Fire Commission.
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FD Rant News The #1 Publication for the Long Island Fire Service
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For those of you who like to wait to the last minute, we would like to make a gift suggestion that won’t break the bank this year. Our 2015 FD Rant News calendars are here and you can have them under your Christmas tree this year if you order yours by December 20th. FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
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LYNBROOK
Hidden Fire in the Walls Proves No Problem Story and Photos by Kevin Madigan-K2M Photography
Click Here for More Photos
On the afternoon of November 29th, 2014 the Lynbrook Fire Department was dispatched to a reported house fire at 49 Stratford Road off of Piccadilly Downs. When units arrived on scene they were met with smoke showing from a two story private dwelling and found fire inside of a first floor bedroom on the number two side of the home. Lynbrook Third Assistant Chief Carl Lengel [4293] began to extinguish the fire with a water can; however, it was discovered that the fire was inside the walls of the room. With this realization the signal ten [working fire] was transmitted. Lynbrook [Tally-Ho] Engine 423 pulled first due and went on to stretch three lines with two lines going into operation. Lynbrook ladder 428 was the first truck company to arrive on the scene and took to the front of the home. During the operation Lynbrook Command requested that a Rockville Centre ladder [Ladder 449] respond to the scene along with an ambulance from Valley Stream. Standing by for Lynbrook were units from East Rockaway, Malverne, and Lakeview. Within twenty-five minutes the scene was placed under control [signal twelve transmitted]. All fire department units were under the command of Lynbrook Second Assistant Chief John Chavatte [429
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EAST NORTHPORT Electrical Fire Handled
Story and Photos by Jeff DiLavore – FD Rant News On Sunday evening November 30th, the East Northport Fire Department was alerted for a signal 13 [structure fire] at 63 6th Avenue. Assistant Chief Wayne Kaifler [2-10-31] was in the immediate vicinity and was on scene quickly. After a quick size up he relayed to Chief Joe Ervin [2-10-30] that he had a smoke condition but held off on re-transmitting as a working fire. Upon arrival of the first due engine 2-10-4, the crew used a couple of water cans to knock down a small fire in a closet in the middle of the home. Assistant Chief Dan Heffernan [2-10-32] was also on scene to direct operations. Fans were placed to ventilate the smoke from the building and all units were back in service within about 30 minutes.
BRENTWOOD and BRENTWOOD LEGION VAC
Car vs House
Story and Photos by Kevin Conn On Sunday November 30, 2014 at about 0700 hours the Brentwood Fire Department and Brentwood Legion Volunteer Ambulance were dispatched to 106 Suffolk Avenue for a reported MVA with a car vs. house. Upon arrival of 3-2-31 and 3-2-32, they found a vehicle which had crashed into a car parked in the driveway, pushing it into another parked car and into the corner of the house. The driver of the car that crashed fled the scene on foot; however SCPD 3rd Pct units quickly located and arrested him. No injuries were reported and minor damage to the structure with no further hazards present. Brentwood units were directed by 3-2-31 to return to quarters prior to their arrival on scene. FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
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MASTIC BEACH
Car Goes For Swim
Story and Photos by John Walthers FD Rant News / Suffolk Fire Photos At about 7:25am on the morning of November 30th, the Suffolk County Police as well as the volunteers from Mastic Beach Fire Department and Ambulance were alerted to a car in the water at the docks on Cranberry Drive and Rivera Drive. Upon arrival of the first responding police units, he advised headquarters to notify fire that he had a car submerged in the water approximately 40 feet from shore. Mastic Beach Assistant Chief Carlo Grover [5-1331] was the first to arrive on scene and took charge. He advised his units that he would need divers to respond to the location. Mastic and Brookhaven Fire Departments were also activated but were given a disregard after it was confirmed the vehicle was not occupied. Members of the Mastic Beach Fire Department went into the water to hook the car up to a winch to remove it and double check that there were no people in there. The vehicle was removed from the water by approximately 8am and all units were released shortly thereafter.
MASTIC
Two Cars and Two Victims
Story and Photos by T. J. Lambui - FD Rant News/LiHotShots
On Sunday, November 30, 2014, a two car MVA at the intersection of Titmus Drive and Ardmour Drive, at approx. 2145 hours, sent two people to a local hospital. The SCPD 7th Pct., Mastic Fire Department, and Mastic Volunteer Ambulance Corps responded to the accident which involved a Jaguar sedan and Nissan Maxima.
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NASSAU COUNTY TECHNICAL RESCUE ADVISORY COMMITTEE [NTRAC] Multiple Departments Take Part in Trench Rescue Drill Story and photos by Kevin Madigan - K2M Photography
Click Here for More Photos On Sunday, November 30th, 2014 members of NTRAC [Nassau County Technical Rescue Advisory Committee] held a classroom and hands on trench rescue drill. The classroom portion of the drill took place in Port Washington’s Flower Hill based firehouse. Members were taught the proper way to handle a trench rescue from the time units are assigned an incident to the time when they are breaking down the equipment after the victim[s] have been removed. After the classroom portion of the drill had concluded, members relocated to Port Washington’s firefighting training facility located off of West Shore Road. Inside the facility a long trench upwards of ten feet deep had been dug with two faux victims placed inside. Under the assistance of well-informed chiefs and instructors members were able to put what they learned in the classroom to the test and remove the victims. The operation included everything from laying out the necessary equipment, shoring up the walls of the trench, and then safely entering and exiting the trench. The drill is one of a few held this year by NTRAC. Departments with technical rescue teams who were present for this drill included; Freeport, Massapequa, Manhasset Lakeville, Port Washington, Bethpage, Hempstead and Rockville Centre. The Nassau County Office of Emergency Management was also on scene.
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WESTBURY
Nursery Fire Kicks off the Season Story and photos by Kevin Madigan K2M Photography
Minutes after 10:00 hours on the morning of Sunday, November 30th, 2014 the Westbury Fire Department was dispatched to a reported structure fire at Hick’s Nursery located at 100 Jericho Turnpike. When units arrived on scene they were met with heavy fire inside of a storage building/small office. Westbury Third Assistant Chief Ken Gass Jr [9603] advised of a working fire and asked that it be retoned as such. Within minutes of the first units having arrived on scene a second alarm was transmitted due to the nursery related contents within the fire building and in the surrounding structures. Firefighters discovered early in the operation that there were no hydrants present on the grounds of the nursery and had to setup a water relay using hydrants located on Jericho Turnpike. Through the use of hand lines on various sides of the burning building firefighters were able to get a good hold on the fire and keep it from spreading to other structures on the property. Mutual aid units were assigned to the scene and to stand by with the transmission of the working fire with additional units added on the second alarm. On scene was Hicksville Ladder 931 [initially designated the FAST], Williston Park Ladder 862, East Meadow Engine 614 and Ambulance 6144, Jericho Ambulance 948, Carle Place Engine 9147, Mineola Engine 167 and Ladder 165. Standing by for Westbury during the operation were units from Plainview and Bethpage. The cause of the fire remained under investigation and all fire department units were under the command of Westbury Second Assistant Chief John Bartunek [9602]. FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
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WESTBURY
Propane Leak Brings Hazmat 1 Story and Photos by Jeff DiLavore FD Rant News
On Monday morning December 1st at 1120 hours, the Westbury Fire Department was notified for a possible propane tank leak against a house at 192 Garden Street near Prospect Avenue. Under the direction of Chief Doug Ingraham [9601] Westbury found a 100 lb. propane cylinder that had been leaking but emptied prior to Nassau County Fire Marshal Hazmat 1 arrival. The building department was notified as well due to the discovery of multiple SRO’s within the building. Units were back in service within 30 minutes.
YAPHANK
Story and Photos by T. J. Lambui FD Rant News/LiHotShots On Monday, December 1st, at approximately 1310 hours, the Yaphank Fire Department was called to the scene at 95 Horseblock Road for this car fire at the Adesa Auto Auction car storage lot. A few other cars were damaged due their close proximity to the fully involved vehicle. This is the second car fire at the Adesa complex in the past two weeks. The Fire Marshal’s office is investigating.
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MANHASSET-LAKEVILLE Rush Hour MVA with Fire
Story by Kirk Candan, Photos by Lee Genser On Tuesday, December 2nd, 2014 at 5:07PM, Manhasset-Lakeville Fire Department Companies 4, 5 and the Ambulance Unit were dispatched to in front of 318 Lakeville Road in Lake Success for a reported motor vehicle accident with fire. Chief Farrone [8705] and Deputy Chiefs Kiess [8701] and Candan [8704] all responded to the call simultaneously and were advised of a reported motor vehicle accident with possible fire. Due to the accident, traffic was at a stand-still on Lakeville Road, which made it very difficult for responding apparatus to arrive at the scene. Despite the heavy congestion, Deputy Chief Candan arrived on scene and confirmed a minor accident with a working vehicle fire. Squad 8759 was the first piece of apparatus to arrive, followed by Engine 8740. Both units stretched 1ž� hose lines and extinguished the fire. Ambulances 8767 and 8769 and Ladder 8743 were also on the scene. Lakeville Road was shutdown in both directions for about thirty minutes by the Lake Success Police Department while firefighters extinguished the fully-involved vehicle. There were no reported injuries from the passengers of either vehicle involved in the accident and all units were released from the scene within thirty minutes by Chief of Department Farrone.
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KINGS PARK
Special Delivery at the Post Office Story and Photos by Jim LoDuca
On Thursday December 4th at about 10:00 am the Kings Park Fire Department was activated for a 16/23 motor vehicle accident with a car into the building at the Kings Park Post Office on East Main Street. Chief Dan Guifoil [4-1-30] arrived on scene along with an engine, ambulance, heavy rescue and fire police. The Town of Smithtown Building Department was requested to respond to inspect the structure and the Suffolk County PD and Smithtown Fire Marshal also responded. The female occupant of the vehicle was transported to St. Catherine Hospital with minor injuries.
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NORTH AMITYVILLE Single Vehicle Overturn
Story and Photos by Chris Colletti – LNBN
MEDFORD
On December 4th, around 9:30pm, the Suffolk Police and Babylon Central Fire Alarm had received a call for a possible overturned truck at the intersection of 45th Street and New Highway in North Amityville. Multiple SCPD 1st Precinct sector cars arriving on scene with North Amityville Fire Company Chief of Department Mike Benloss [1-7-30] and North Amityville Fire Company 1st Assistant Chief John Harley [1-7-31], advised the corrected location of the accident was at Cassata Court and New Highway. The Jeep Grand Cherokee overturned numerous times and in the process, struck a fire hydrant, which had landed a few hundred feet away into the woods. The vehicle came to a rest back on its 4 wheels. The driver removed himself from the SUV prior to arrival of responders. EMT’s from NAFCo Ambulance 1-7-7 packaged and transported the driver of the vehicle to St. Joseph’s Hospital in Bethpage. Firefighters from Engine 1-7-10 applied speedy dry to the roadway and sidewalk for a fluid spill and the car’s battery which also had exploded and landed nearby. The Suffolk County Water Authority was on the scene to begin on their repairs to the hydrant. All FD units operating on scene were back in service within 45 minutes of the alarm.
MVA with Entrapment
Story and Photo by Christopher Sabella On Scene Photography On the afternoon of Wednesday, December 10th, Medford firefighters and ambulance were activated for a reported Heavy rescue at Horseblock Rd. and the North service Rd. of the L.I.E in Medford. SCPD arrived and advised 1 subject was trapped. Firefighters, using Hydraulic tools, removed both passenger doors and the “B” post to free the 14 year old girl in fewer than 20 minutes. Medford ambulance transported the patient to Brookhaven hospital. FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
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WANTAGH
Deli Serves Firefighters a Working Fire
Story and photos by Kevin Madigan K2M Photography Around 05:00 hours on the morning of Saturday, December 6th, 2014 the Wantagh Fire Department was dispatched to a report of smoke in the building at Beck’s Deli located 1939 Wantagh Avenue between Brooklyn and Park Avenues. When the first units arrived on scene, they were met with a smoke condition inside the building upon making entry. After further investigation, units located the main body of fire on the second floor of the building in the floorboards which then led to the transmission of the signal ten [working fire]. Two lines were stretched and went into operation to fight the fire. Firefighters were able to contain the fire to the area it originated in and kept extension to a minimum. Additional mutual aid to the scene consisted of Massapequa Ladder 632, Seaford Ladder 683, and Bellmore Ladder 606. Bellmore, Massapequa, and North Bellmore helped to provide standby units for Click Here for More Photos Wantagh during the operation. All fire department units were under the command of Wantagh Author’s Note: this same location experienced a fire in Chief of Department Jason Jackowitz [6900]. or around 1999 that heavily damaged the first floor.
MIDDLE ISLAND Early Morning Rollover
Story and photo by Christopher Sabella
On Scene Photography
Just after midnight on Monday December 8th, the Middle Island Fire Department treated the driver of a car after he rolled over into the woods on Wellington Ave. in Middle island. The driver was transported to a local hospital for treatment FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
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BROOKHAVEN
Christmas Tree Lighting Attracts Dozens Story and Photos by John Walthers FD Rant News / Suffolk Fire Photos
On the night of December 7th, the Brookhaven Fire Department held its annual Christmas tree lighting and caroling event. This year’s event brought dozens of community members, firefighters with their kids and even a few 4 legged friends to the department’s main house on Montauk Highway. The event kicked off with everyone gathering outside in the driveway across from the tree. The department officers gave their introduction speech and then kicked it up a notch with some Christmas songs and caroling. The community members sang a few songs with them and while singing Silent Night, the tree came to life, glowing. Santa then was escorted to the firehouse on his sleigh which was pulled not by reindeer but instead by one of the fire department’s vehicles. Santa was able to talk to all the children who were present before he had to go and the crowd went inside for refreshments. A great time was had by all.
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HAM RADIO UNIVERSITY
By Phil Lichtenberger – Monitor Long Island, Inc. & W2LIE.net
Briarcliff College January 4, 2015 Ham Radio university is an annual event held at Briarcliff College in Bethpage, NY on the first Sunday of the new year. This year marks the sixteenth year of HRU. There is a lot more to Ham Radio Univerity than the name lets on. For starters, this isn’t a college course or ham radio only type of event. Ham Radio University is composed of several forums that run concurrently throughout the day that discuss items such as emergency power, proper grounding, DX and QRP methods, as well as other topics that may or may not directly releate to just Amatuer Radio. This will by my 6th year presenting my Introduction to Scanner Radio forum. Two years ago, I was also asked to present an advanced class which directly follows the first class. In addition to the two scanner classes, I have also given presentations on home weather stations and the Amatuer Radio Relay League’s National Traffic system.
For those who are interested in learning a bit more about Ham Radio University can read about the even online at http://hamradiouniversity.org/ For those who will be unable to attend HRU this year, there will be a live video stream from the main conference room. Both the introduction and advanced scanner classes will be held in the main room, and will be video broadcasted to the internet at http://hamradiouniversity.org/live-streaming/ The day starts at 9am, and there is a break at noon for the Keynote speaker. Forums resume at 1:30pm and continue until the last forum closes around 3:30pm. There is a $3 suggested donation, door prizes, and you can walk into any forum you wish, and skip the forums you are not interested in.
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Below is the schedule at the time this article was written: Time Room 9:00 A AM 9:00 B AM 9:00 C AM 9:00 D AM 9:00 E AM 9:00 F AM 9:00 G AM 10:00 B AM 10:00 AM 10:00 AM 10:00 AM 10:00 AM 10:00 AM 11:00 AM 11:00 AM 11:00 AM 11:00 AM 11:00 AM
Forum MESH Networks ARRL Forum NYC/LI Intro to DXing (propagation, history, techniques) Transmitter Hunting
Moderator Jeff Garruba KC2ZQO, Bill Burns AC2IS Jim Mezey W2KFV John Reiser W2GW, Ed Whitman K2MFY of LIDXA Larry Berger WA2SUH, Andy Kirschenbaum WA2CDL
Intro to Scanning
Phil Lichtenberger W2LIE
Ham APs for mobile devices – NEW
Diane Ortiz K2DO
QRP low power fun
John Meade W2XS
NLI EmComm
Jim Mezey W2KFV
C
Advanced DXing
John Reiser W2GW, Ed Whitman K2MFY of LIDXA, Bill Hudzik W2UDT
D
Building your first ham station - NEW – a guide on setting up your HF station whether you live on a large or small lot. Discussion on what radio and antenna system you should consider, taking into account your time and money allocated to the hobby. There will be Q & A discussion at the end.
Phil Lewis N2MUN
E
Advanced Scanner Forum
Phil Lichtenberger W2LIE
G
Antenna Modeling - NEW
Edward Newman W2EMN
H
WORKSHOP – Connectors how to use and where do they go - PreRegistration REQ Materials for the Connectors workshop donated from the Norm Wesler K2YEW Education Fund administered by LIMARC
Richie Cetron K2KNB
A
Basic IRLP - NEW
Preston Waterman W2PW
B
The National Traffic System in NYC/LI
Jim Kettyle KC2LEB
C
Remote Station Operating using Elecraft K3 and K0
Rick Bressler K2RB
D
Young Ham Forum
Lew Malchick N2RQ
E
Working Satellites with your HT
Pete Portanova W2JV
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Time Room
Forum Nikola Tesla and the Wardenclyffe laboratory - NEW – a snapshot of the current state of the laboratory in Shoreham and the future plans of the Tesla Science Center at Wardenclyffe to renovate the 16 acre site. Keynote Speaker – from ARRL Headquarters, Emergency Preparedness Manager Mike Corey will speak about the role of Emergency Communications today in Amateur Radio.
Moderator Richard Gearns – Board Member, Tesla Science Center at Wardenclyffe
11:00 AM
G
12:00 Noon
E
1:30 PM
A
Intro to D-Star
Preston Waterman W2PW
1:30 PM
B
Six Meters during Cycle 24 – a review of the progress on Six Meters during the past two decades and what can be expected going forward with attention paid to the solar cycle projections.
Ken Neubeck WB2AMU
C
Contesting – all your questions answered
Mel Granick KS2G
D
Emergency Power for home
Jeff Schneller N2HPO
E
Antenna Basics
Walter Wenzel KA2RGI
F
VE Session
Bob Myers K2TV and VE Team
G
LINUX - NEW
Matt Newhall
H
WORKSHOP – Fun with CW - PreRegistration REQ
Neil Heft KC2KY
A
Advanced D-Star
Randy Gutentag WA2RMZ, Scott Weis KB2EAR
1:30 PM 1:30 PM 1:30 PM 1:30 PM 1:30 PM 1:30 PM 2:30 PM 2:30 PM
B
2:30 PM
C
2:30 PM 2:30 PM 2:30 PM
Grounding for the Ham Station – This seminar will present an overview of grounding and bonding, as applied to the typical amateur radio installation, with regard to power, lightning protection and RF (antenna) grounding, especially with regard to compliance with 2014 National Electrical Code requirements. Tips, Tricks and Techniques of the best operators – an interactive forum that answers your questions and provides solid advice about ham radio operating. Bring your questions and your best tips with you!
Mike Corey KI1U
Don Kane WB2BEZ
George Tranos N2GA
E
Small HF Loop Antennas - NEW
Mike Kozma WY2U
F
VE Session (continued)
Bob Myers K2TV and VE Team
G
LINUX for Ham Radio - NEW
Neil Goldstein W2NDG
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And now, a little bit of shameless self promotion! Here is what you can expect in the Intro and Advanced Scanning Forums that I will be presenting. The introduction class will consist of the powerpoint presentation that I have given in previous years, as well as other locations on Long Island. The class starts by explaining the different types of systems you may find in conventional scanning such as simplex, repeater and duplex operations. I also touch on the use of PL,DPL, and NAC codes and where they may be used and why. When we move into the trunking part of the class, I demonstrate how a Trunk System works and how Motorola, EDACS, LTR, and P25 are different. The end of the class reviews the different type of scanners that can be used on Long Island and questions and answers. If anyone would like a copy of the slides I will be using, please see http://www.w2lie.net/hru The Advanced class will be building on Trunk System monitoring. We will be touching on software such as UniTrunker, Pro96Com, ProScan, and BuTel. I plan on showing plenty of live demonstrations on how you can hook your scanner to a computer to collect frequency logs, and how to use it paired with a trunk decoder to discover more talk groups. We will also show how to use old scanners to make them work on a rebanded trunk system, or how to use an analog scanner to monitor digital frequencies. Both classes are open to Q&A, so if you have any questions, feel free to bring them with you. If you have any question about the contents in this column, or have suggestions for future articles, please feel free to contact me at w2lie@w2lie.net Until next month, remember you can follow my updates on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/w2lie.net and keep up to date on some of my projects on Instagram at http://instagram.com/w2lie and twitter http://twitter.com/ w2lie 73 (Best Regards) Phil / w2lie The Long Island FD Rant News/W2LIE.net Log Book brings you the latest scanning updates for Nassau and Suffolk Counties and the surrounding areas. This monthly column focuses on radio and communication issues as they relate to emergency services agencies. The column contains tidbits of information for all types of users from novice to professionals. All questions can be submitted to the email address below and I will address them in the subsequent issues. About the author— Phil Lichtenberger is the owner of Monitor Long Island, Inc. which owns W2LIE.net ,LongIslandFirePhotos.com and manages several other sites. Phil has been a licensed Amateur Radio operator since 1994 and has been listening to scanner and short-wave for 20 years. Phil also writes a quarterly column for the Scanner Digest Newsletter Do you have any scanner related questions, tips or ideas for this column? Please submit them to: w2lie@w2lie.net
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FD Rant News The #1 Publication for the Long Island Fire Service
Get Your 2015 FDRN Calendar Today! This year’s calendar contains over 100 photos from over 50 fire departments from across Long Island taken by 17 of FD Rant News’ correspondents.
For those of you who like to wait to the last minute, we would like to make a gift suggestion that won’t break the bank this year. Our 2015 FD Rant News calendars are here and you can have them under your Christmas tree this year if you order yours by December 20th. FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
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SMITHTOWN
Quick Work at Weekend Fire
Story and Photos by Evan Rolla On the afternoon of Sunday, December 7th, the Smithtown Fire Department was dispatched to a residential structure fire at 172 Mount Pleasant Road with a cross of Clearbook Drive. Shortly after Chief Sisino [4-2-30] arrived, he transmitted the working fire [Signal 35]. Units stretched a booster line and vented the house after a fire started at a power strip and extended to the walls and desk in the room. Within 20 minutes of the alarm, the scene was placed under control and firefighters began overhaul. Roughly 10 minutes later all units took up and the scene was added to the fire marshals. One person was transported to the hospital with minor injuries via Ambulance 4-2-6-2. No mutual aid was provided at the scene.
HUNTINGTON MANOR
Working Fire at Costal Design Landscape
Story and photo’s Kevin Burke - Kburkephotography.com
http://kburkephotography.com/p995724689
On Monday December 8th at 11:43 am, the Huntington Manor Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 63 Round Swamp Rd in West Hills. Arriving units were greeted by a heavy smoke condition and fire on the first floor. Under the command of Chief of Department Frank McQuade [2-4-30], Assistant Chiefs Jon Hoffman [2-4-32] and Chuck Brady [2-4-33] members were greeted by a heavy smoke condition and fire on the first floor. The fire was quickly brought under control saving a large portion of the structure. Huntington Community FAS Chief Tom Lemp and members operating Ambulances 2-15-16 and 2-15-21 from Huntington Community Squad stood by at the scene. Mutual Aid was provided by Melville and Syosset. The Town of Huntington Fire Marshal was on scene. Also town of Suffolk County FRES Coordinator Scott Dalrymple [205] was scene to assist with the operation.
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BROOKHAVEN
Santa Makes a Special Visit
Story and photo by John Walthers FD Rant News / Suffolk Fire Photos On Saturday December 13th, the TriHamlet area received a special treat; Santa Clause made his way to town with a little assistance. Since Santa forgot his reindeer, he had help from the members of the Brookhaven FD to pull his Sleigh around so he could visit as many children in the town and give out candy Canes. This yearly FD assistance is known as "Operation Santa Clause�. This year Santa visited as many streets as he could on his Fire truck drawn sleigh to bring up the Christmas spirit.
MANORVILLE
Head on Sends One to Hospital Story and photos by T. J. Lambui FD Rant News/LiHotShots
On Saturday, December 13th, the driver of a 2009 Honda Accord, traveling west bound on Moriches Middle Island Rd., attempted to turn left on to North Titmus Ave. and collided with a 2006 Honda Accord traveling east bound on Moriches Middle Island Rd. at approximately 20:45 hours. Under the command of M.F.D. Lieutenant Seth Cozzell [5-16-30], M.F.D. members secured the vehicles and the driver of the '06 Honda was taken to the hospital by Manorville Community Ambulance.
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BRENTWOOD
FD host 2014 Matthew’s Wish Parade Story and Photos by Ken Bradbury
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On Saturday December 13th the Brentwood Fire Department hosted a Parade around Brentwood for the Matthews Wish Foundation. This marks the sixth year that the Allen Brothers organize this Toy Drive for sick children in the Cohen’s Children’s Hospital and each year the parade gets larger. Nine Fire Departments took part in this year’s parade that ended at the Brentwood Legion Ambulance Corp. Also taking part where the apparatus from Captain Jack’s fleet, and the Fanbulance from the NY Football Giants Fanzone.This years drive produced enormous results and the writer would like to thank the Allen Brothers, Mike, Rob, Chris, and Harry as well as their families for their time and effort.
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APPARATUS OF THE FIRE SERVICE
PHOTO BY Lauren Chenault | Hempstead Engine 1 on the scene of a recent working fire in a vacant house.
PHOTO BY Chris Coletti | North Lindenhurst FD Ladder 1-11-4 on scene of North Amityville’s working fire.
PHOTO BY Jeff DiLavore | Nassau County Fire Marshal’s Office HazMat 1 on the scene of a recent gas leak in Westbury.
FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
PHOTO BY Lauren Chenault | Commack Engine 2-11-12 on the scene of a recent building fire.
PHOTO BY Kevin Burke | Huntington Community FAS Ambulance 2-16-15 on the scene of a recent working fire in Huntington Manor.
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PHOTO BY Andrew Carpenter | Glenwood Engine 532 at a fire in East Norwich Manor.
PHOTO BY Jeff DiLavore | Northport Engine 2-9-8 operates at a recent working fire.
PHOTO BY Chris Colletti | West Babylon FD Engine 1-9-1 of the Rainbow Hose Company on scene of their mini school bus fire.
PHOTO BY Jeff DiLavore | Brentwood Engine 3-2-15 operates at a recent working fire on Suffolk Avenue.
PHOTO BY Andrew Carpenter | Franklin Square & Munson Engine 711 and Malverne ladder 434 at a fire in West Hempstead.
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KINGS PARK
Multiple Hazards at Vehicle Fire
Story and Photos by Jeff DiLavore – FD Rant News
Click Here for More Photos Shortly before 1:00 pm on Thursday December 11th, the Kings Park Fire Department was alerted for a reported vehicle fire on the northbound Sunken Meadow Parkway south of Pulaski Road. Assistant Chief Tim Clark [4-1-32] originally asked for a clarification of the location but eventually found the fully involved Mercedes station wagon just south of the Scholar Lane overpass. Engine 4-1-4 arrived on scene and the crew stretched a 1¾” trash line to hit the fire. During the operation, the fuel tank was compromised and a decision to use foam was made. In the engine compartment there were also the textbook white flames indicative of an exotic metal burning. Because the fire was located in the Commack Fire District, they were notified and responded with Squad 2-11-4. All units were up within 30 minutes.
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BROOKHAVEN Christmas Tree Lighting
Story and Photos by John Walthers FD Rant News / Suffolk Fire Photos
On December 7th the Brookhaven Fire Department held its annual Christmas tree lighting and caroling event. This year’s event brought dozens of community members, firefighters with their kids and even a few 4 legged friends to the departments main house on Montauk Highway. The event kicked off with everyone gathering outside in the driveway across from the tree. The department officers gave their introduction speech and then kicked it up a notch with some Christmas songs and caroling. The community members sang a few songs with them and then during Silent Night the tree came to life glowing. Santa then was escorted to the firehouse on his sleigh which was pulled not by reindeer but instead by one of the fire department’s vehicles. Santa was able to talk to all the children who were present before he had to go, and the crowd went inside for refreshments. A great time was had by all.
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INW
Ex-Chief Joseph
Photo By Ke
Multiple American flag arches are pictured near the entrance of Green rest on Decem FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
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WOOD
Sanford L.O.D.D.
evin Madigan
nfield Cemetery in Uniondale where Ex-Chief Joseph Sanford was laid to mber 31, 2014 FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
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THE BACK OF THE BUS By Tom Cronogue
Vollie Roofs Soapbox time. This is a drum I’ve been beating for some time now. I get a lot of, “That’s a good idea”, and “Somebody should do something about that.” So far, from our elected officials, crickets. Why? We’re not squeaky wheels. We just continue to hump along, doing the best we can with what we’ve got. If the volunteer system is going to survive and prosper, it needs a constant supply of fresh blood. No, not the red stuff...new members. It’s not really about the vollie system surviving. It’s about the patient surviving. No people=dead bodies. A recently completed study by Suffolk’s Bravest noted a rise in volunteers of about two percent. That’s good and God bless them for stepping up, but it’s nowhere near enough. Take a look at the service lifespan of an average volunteer EMS worker; two and a half years. At the 30 month mark, the member gets burned out, fed up, broke, married or a second job and we lose them. Think about that for a second. The newly minted probie takes a couple of months to get up to speed within his or her squad, what with orientation, CPR/BBPD/HazMat and all the other stuff we shove into their brains. Then we send them toddling off to EMT school for six months or so. 10 months of that 30 is lost to orientation. This gives us a useable service life of less than two years. Why do they go? I submit that they go because they have no reason to stay. A topic of great concern out and about on Long Island is the “Brain Drain” and now, the “Youth Drain”. We hear this all the time; from the right and the left. Young and educated people are leaving the region in droves for many reasons. Some are tired of living in their parents’ basements. Some are tired of paying high rent, despairing the chance of ever saving enough for their own place. Some are leaving because they cannot afford college here, even while living at home. Some go away to college and never come back. Some are leaving because the jobs are no longer here or obtainable. A topic less discussed, but of no less importance, is the inability of the volunteer emergency services ( Emergency Medical Services, Fire Companies, Auxiliary Police, Coast Guard Auxiliaries and the like) to recruit and retain membership. Ambulances and fire engines around the area collect dust, lacking people to staff them. When you’re having the heart attack or a stroke, it is an axiom in medicine that “Time is Tissue“. When you cannot breathe, or your house is burning, you really have no interest in the above topics. You need help and you need it now. As a volunteer emergency service provider for 40 years, it shames me to say that more and more often, there is no one to step up and help. In my home district, in recent memory, it took 40 minutes to get an ambulance to a patient’s side in their moment of need. Two crews were out on alarms, both “abuse of service” calls...but that’s a topic for another day. In the time it took, there were 16 ambulances parked within an approximate two mile radius of the patient, but not a vollie member among them. A combination department, one that supplements its volunteers with career providers, was finally summoned to render care. This is a sad tale, one that repeats itself in a myriad of forms across the island daily. What, if anything, can you do to help? Long Island is a very high value real estate market. It is very difficult for a working class volunteer, often working two or more jobs while meeting their volunteer obligations to meet rent and mortgage payments, if they could save enough to make a down payment. Volunteer agencies do not draw their base from the rich, nor the poor. Volunteers come from the working middle class, that very class that is fleeing Long Island in droves. A solution? What we propose is housing set-asides in both the rental and sale developments that will enable a member to stay here, put down roots and raise his or her family on Long Island. We cannot do that now for a few reasons.
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While there are low income mandate set-asides in any new developments, middle class families or individuals are blocked from taking advantage of these, because they make too much money. These are the people whom we need to entice to stay, and to volunteer. We can do this by tying the two together. We can require set-asides for people who make a decent wage, yet who give to their communities by volunteering for the emergency services. The good news is, this doesn’t mean tax money. We need to develop incentives for developers to do so. Developers and mortgage lenders would have to step up and provide the means to enable these volunteers to support the community and, in fact, protect the developments they are building while protecting the lives of the people who live in them. What do we need you to do first? Federal law protects against and prevents such set asides for special interest groups except the low income, neediest people. Vollies are a special interest group by these definitions. What would be needed is a modification of this law that would enable volunteer emergency services providers to rent apartments at reduced rates, such as Section Eight levels, or obtain mortgages at reduced rates. Doing this, these volunteers would be staying in their home towns and saving the lives and property of their neighbors. There are very few groups more dedicated to the wellbeing of their community than the volunteer firefighters and EMTs of the community based fire, rescue and EMS agencies of Long Island. There are many worthy groups out there who deserve consideration, Little League coaches, hospital volunteers etc. Truth be told though, the emergency services volunteers are the only ones who rush to your side and literally restore breathing and heartbeat, or run into a burning home to save a child. This group must be helped. These people risk their lives daily. Should a Homeland Security issue arise, natural or man-made, it will be these volunteers who will be stepping up to take the brunt of the strike. No local government can afford to replace them with employees. The money just is not there. If we lose these people, from where will this help come? This has been a topic at the various group meetings of the providers, such as the New York State Volunteer Ambulance and Rescue Association and the Suffolk County Ambulance Chiefs’ Association. We have already approached our local officials who are excited about making this work. They point to Congress, and specifically Congressmen King, Israel and Zeldin as the folk who can help us make the change to make this happen. There are literally hundreds of thousands of volunteers out here who need their help to make this happen. More importantly, there are millions of people out there who rely on these volunteers for their very lives. To put a roof over the heads of those who put their lives on the line every day will pay dividends throughout the nation, across the economic spectrum and across the population whom these volunteers serve. OK, off soapbox. Where does this leave us? As usual, we have to do the heavy lifting. You might notice that large tracts of the above lack my usual rapier-like wit. Cut and paste it, play with it as you see fit, and barrage your local elected officials’ in-boxes with it. Buttonhole them at your dinners and let them know what you need to stay volunteering on Long Island. Get started getting what you need to do your jobs. A fire truck never put out a fire. An ambulance never saved a life. It’s the people who matter. Without us, people die. Chief Thomas Cronogue (ret.) served more than two decades as an officer in the Wyandanch-Wheatley Heights Ambulance Corp, one of Long Island’s busiest. He began his career as a member of the Deer Park Fire Department in 1969. He served with West Babylon FD, Wyandanch Fire Co., Martin Luther King, Jr. Rescue Squad and WWHAC. Professionally, he is a retired Police Officer serving 29 Years with the Nassau County PD. He worked in the Seventh, Special Services Bureau (later ESB) and the C.I.C in the Fire Police Academy in NUMC. Following retirement, he worked for the DPFD, running their career EMS program as EMS Director. Talk to him at Ocrainaugh@AOL.com
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COMMACK Da Roof is on Fire
Story and Photos by Jeff DiLavore FD Rant News On Monday December 15th the Commack Fire Department responded to a reported building fire at 440 Moreland Road near Austin Boulevard. Additional information relayed to Assistant Chief Rich Myers [2-1131] was that multiple calls were being taken for a fire on the roof at that location. Prior to his arrival Town of Smithtown Fire Marshal [4-0-45] was on scene relaying that there was a smoke condition from the roof with a possible fire in the HVAC system and that the building was being evacuated. Ladder 2-11-1 arrived and flew the bucket to the roof as Engines 2-11-13 and 2-11-4 secured hydrants as the crew of Squad 4 stretched a dry line. Meanwhile, crews went to the roof with water cans and tools to locate and extinguish the small fire. Assistant Chief Bobby Wilkins [2-11-33] was also on scene during the operation. All units were back in service within 40 minutes.
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KINGS PARK Car vs. House
Story and Photo by Jeff DiLavore – FD Rant News Additional Photos by Jim LoDuca
On Wednesday morning December 17th the Kings Park Fire Department responded to a reported MVA with a vehicle into a house at the intersection of East Main Street and Forest Road. Upon arrival of Assistant Chief John Gallo [4-1-31] he advised Smithtown Communications [4-2-0] that a vehicle struck a utility pole, snapping it in half and then drove into the front of the house on the corner. The vehicle was a van belonging to a painting company and had multiple ladders on top of it. The crew from Heavy Rescue 4-1-9 arrived on scene and began to secure the vehicle and inspect the house for structural damage as members of EMS treated one patient. An additional call was received from a homeowner at 57 Rumford Road stating that the electric service was partially ripped from his house. Engine 4-1-1 responded to that location to assess any hazards. The Chief requested PSEG on a rush to the scene as well as the Town of Smithtown Building Department to respond. The victim was transported to St. Catherine’s Hospital
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FACES OF THE FIRE SERVICE
PHOTO BY Chris Sabella | Middle island firefighters take time out after rollover for a group shot.
PHOTO BY John Walters | Mastic FF Incarnato packs hose after a recent fire.
PHOTO BY Chris Coletti | North Amityville Firefighter Craig Riordan on scene of their working fire at the Sayonara Motel.
PHOTO BY Tom Lambui | Members at the annual Yaphank Christmas Parade
PHOTO BY Jeff DiLavore | A member of Northport during overhaul of a recent fatal house fire.
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PHOTO BY Jeff DiLavore | East Northport Chief Joe Ervin [2-10-30] and Northport Chief Joe Pansini [2-9-30] on the scene of a recent working fire. PHOTO BY John Walters | A member of Mastic Beach operates at a recent car into the water.
PHOTO BY Tom Lambui | Members take part in the annual Yaphank FD Christmass Parade.
PHOTO BY Kevin Burke | Huntington Manor Assistant Chief Chuck Brady [2-4-33] on the scene of a recent fire.
PHOTO BY Kevin Burke | Melville Assistant Chief on the scene of a recent working fire in Huntington Manor.
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HOLTSVILLE Fatal Cab Ride
Story and Photo by Chris Sabella On December 14, 2014 a passenger riding in this cab when it collided with a Jeep on southbound Nicholls Road just south of Portion Road. The speed and impact sent the taxi off the roadway into the median flipping it several times and ejecting the passenger. Crews from the Holtsville Fire Department responded to the scene and the patient was transported to Stony Brook University Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. The drivers of both vehicles were treated and transported with minor injuries.
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BELLMORE
A Little Work Before Lunch
Story and Photos by Kim Versheck – LNBN Shortly after 11am on December 16th, 2014 the Bellmore Fire Department was alerted to a reported house fire on Hicks Street. As firefighters started to turn out, North Bellmore Dispatch [650] advised that a Merrick Chief was on scene confirming a fire at the location. First arriving Engine 604 (acting 601) was met with a smoke condition and took the hydrant just past the home. Upon entry by the crew, they confirmed a fire on the first floor of a 2 story wood frame residence. First Assistant Chief Daniel Holl [600-01] took command of the scene as Tower Ladder 606 preformed their searches and began opening up. Mutual aid ladders from both Merrick and North Bellmore, arrived on scene and were quickly put to work. Most of the fire was contained to the first floor but some minor extension occurred on the number 3 side. After the companies opened up the second floor wall and checked the attic all was found clear and the fire was placed under control, in about 30 minutes. No injuries were reported and the Nassau County Fire Marshal was called to investigate the cause of the fire. Coverage of the district during the alarm was provided by Wantagh, Seaford and North Merrick.
Bellmore FD House Fire - LNBN
DEER PARK
Responds to an Overturn
Story and Photos by Ken Bradbury On Friday, December 26th the Deer Park Fire Department responded to an overturned vehicle on Deer Park Avenue just south of Fairview Avenue. Chief Larry Bradbury [1-4-30] was in charge of the scene of a one car overturn with no injuries. Deer Park crews stood by as SCPD ESU righted the vehicle.
http://deerparkfirephoto.smugmug.com/ MVAs-1/Deer-Park-FD-MVA/i-hxzjsQP
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CENTER MORICHES
Santa Comes To Town Story by Bill Renzetii (C.M.F.D. Parade Chairman)
Photos by T. J. Lambui-FD Rant News/LiHotShots Additional Photo by John Walthers – Suffolk Fire Photos/FD Rant News On Saturday, December 13th, downtown Center Moriches came alive with the sights and sounds of the Holiday Season as the Center Moriches Fire Department hosted the Annual Holiday Parade of Lights. On a mild December evening, thousands of people lined Main Street for as far as the eye could see. The parade started at Montauk Hwy. and Lake Ave. and traveled down Main Street to Ocean Avenue. The parade was filled with floats, bands, cartoon characters, community groups and fire & EMS companies. The parade ended with a visit from Santa who arrived on top of the Center Moriches Fire Department's Tower Ladder. Just prior to the start of the parade, judges reviewed over a dozen floats and award trophies to the "best" floats. During the parade the winners were presented their trophies as they passed by the reviewing stand. The 2014 trophy winners were: Best Overall Float – Cultural Arts Center of Mastic Beach Best Community Float – Helping Makes You Happy Best Decorated Fire Apparatus – Ridge Fire Department Best Fire / Ems Float – East Moriches Community Ambulance Best Cub Scout Float – Manorville Cub Scout Pack 221 Den 6 Best Boy Scout Float – Manorville Boy Scouts Pack 221 The Center Moriches Fire Department would like to thank all of the participants for making the Holiday Parade of Lights a spectacular community event for thousands to enjoy. FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
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MASTIC
Quick Knockdown Saves House Story and Photos by John Walthers FD Rant News Suffolk Fire Photos
On Saturday December 13th, at about 12:50 pm, the Mastic Fire Department was activated by County Dispatch for a report of a residential structure fire at 40 Vernon place. Mastic’s bravest immediately sprang into action responding to the call. Recently elected assistant Chief Jim Mickert [5-12-31] was first to arrive on scene and immediately advised his units that he had smoke showing. The first due unit went to work, lying in a supply line to the nearest hydrant. On his arrival, Chief Rudy Sunderman [5-12-30] took charge of the scene. The main body of fire was quickly knocked down. Chief Sunderman advised the Second due unit, 5-12-3, to park behind his Fire Police unit and send their crew to assist with Overhaul. Because of the quick action of the department, the fire was contained to the boiler area and a small portion of the attic in the house. The Red Cross and County Office of Emergency Management were notified of the incident by Chief Sunderman and responded to assist the residents who were displaced. The Fire Marshal was also on scene. All Units with the exception of chiefs were back in service by about 1:35 PM.
UNIONDALE Overturn
Story and photo by Kevin Madigan K2M Photography On Saturday, December 13th, the Uniondale Fire Department and Nassau County Police ESU operated on the scene of a motor vehicle accident with overturn. The accident was located on Earle Ovington Boulevard, just north of Hempstead Turnpike and involved two vehicles with as many as five injured. No occupants required extrication. All fire department units were under the command of Uniondale Second Assistant Chief Vaughn Tucker [7502]. FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
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NORTH AMITYVILLE
Early Morning Motel Fire Turns Fatal Story and Photos by Chris Colletti – LNBN
On December 14th, around 5:30am, Babylon Central Fire Alarm began receiving multiple calls for a fire at the Sayonara Motel in North Amityville, located at 835 Rt-110. As Babylon Central dispatchers alerted North Amityville Fire Company, they were receiving additional information reporting visible fire showing from the side of the motel. Upon arrival of North Amityville Fire Company 2nd Assistant Chief Aaron Collins [1-7-32], the working fire was transmitted. Chief Collins immediately requested mutual aid to the scene from Amityville FD and the East Farmingdale Fire Company. This brought Amityville FD Engine 1-1-2, Ladder 1-1-5 and East Farmingdale Volunteer Fire Company Ladder 1-5-15 as the RIT team to the scene. Chief of Department Bobby Benloss [1-7-30] established command upon his arrival, where he was later assisted by the Town of Babylon and Suffolk County Fire Coordinators who also responded to the scene. North Amityville Engine 1-7-1 was first due and backed up into the rear parking lot of the motel, as evacuations of the rooms were underway. Firefighters began to pull multiple hand lines and make their way towards the fire room. A female victim was found hanging out of a setback 2nd floor room directly across the hall from the fire. She was rescued by firefighters via a ground ladder.Once safely on the ground, she was transferred to an awaiting EMS crew for evaluation. With the fire moving rapidly, Firefighters Steve Pfost & Jason Smith from East Farmingdale FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
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Volunteer Fire Company performed a Vent, Enter, Search tactic on one of the motel’s 2nd floor rooms which was located 4 doors away from the fire room. After Firefighter Pfost cleared out the window and went to place his tools inside, he realized that there was a victim right below the window sill. He immediately signaled for help and an additional ground ladder was deployed. The bucket of Amityville’s Ladder 1-1-5 was also put to the window to assist in the victim’s removal. With the assistance of fellow firefighters, they were able to get the unconscious victim out through the window. Once safely on the ground, firefighters began performing CPR until EMS personnel arrived. Despite their valiant and courageous efforts, sadly the victim later succumbed to his injuries at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Bethpage. Additional firefighting crews were brought to the scene from Farmingdale, Lindenhurst, Copiague, & North Lindenhurst. Four more victims were escorted from their rooms and evaluated by EMS personnel. Additional ambulances were also on scene from Babylon, Melville, Amityville, Lindenhurst and Massapequa fire departments. Firefighter rehab was provided by the Wyandanch-Wheatley Heights Ambulance Corps. It took firefighters approximately 2 hours to bring the blaze under control and perform extensive overhaul. No additional injuries were reported on scene. The American Red Cross was on hand to help those who were now displaced by the fire. The cause of the fire remained undetermined as the scene was turned over to the Town of Babylon Fire Marshal’s as well as the SCPD Arson & Homicide Squads for further investigation.
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Click Here for More Photos
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SMITHTOWN
Santa Delivers For Special Needs Kids
Story and Photo by Jeff Bressler – Smithtown FD PIO
For the second year Smithtown Fire Department Rescue Company 9 escorted Santa to an event held at the home of a family recipient of SHARE THE VOICE. The organization was established to enhance the lives of disabled children. Recreational use of adaptive tricycles brings many rewards. It builds self-esteem and confidence, provides stress relief, increases social skills, strengthens weak muscles and stretches tight ones, and increases balance and gross motor skills. Owning a tricycle helps physically and cognitively challenged children become more independent and gives them the ability to socialize with typical children in their neighborhood. It gives them an outlet to be just like the other kids! Their program aims to provide these special children with an adaptive tricycle built for them and their specific abilities. On hand traveling with Rescue 9 to present the tricycle and bring holiday cheer was Santa Claus also known as legendary WWE wrestler Mick Foley. A Long Island resident, Foley has dedicated his post wrestling career to writing children’s books, guest speaking across the country and participating in philanthropic causes.
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NORTHPORT
Santa Stops By
Story and Photos by John Mancino
In keeping with their Christmas tradition, Santa and Mrs. Clause made the rounds through Northport all day Saturday December 20th. The elves started decorating the trucks at 9:00 am and by 11:30 the parade was ready to go. Santa's sled made 36 stops though out Northport bringing Christmas cheer to hundreds of kids. Accompanied my many characters including the Grinch, a fun day was had by all.
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KINGS PARK
Annual Christmas Parade and Food Drive Story and Photos by Jeff DiLavore-FD Rant News
For the 33rd year in a row, the Kings Park Fire Department conducted their annual Christmas Parade on Saturday December 20th. This year, a new addition to the parade debuted as the “Santa’s Express” train made its maiden voyage. Created by a committee of Kings Park members headed by Don Lotten, a donated school bus began its transformation several months ago into a vintage style locomotive. As the parade made its way through town and arrived at the pre-destined stops along the route, thousands of residents; both old and young, were there to greet Santa, Mrs. Claus, and a host of characters dressed up in costume. The members handed out candy canes as artificial snow fell around Santa’s transport vehicle. Part of this tradition each year is the Kings Park Fire Department Food Drive. During the parade, residents were encouraged to bring non-perishable foods which members collected and were to be donated to a local church that helps less fortunate families with meals during this time of year.
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BRENTWOOD
Firefighters Rescue Trapped Victim Story and photo by Chris Colletti – LNBN
On December 15th, around 10:30PM, the Brentwood Fire Department was activated for a reported residential structure fire at 8 Garnet Drive, off of Wicks Rd. Additional details were reported as a basement fire with occupants trapped within the home. A volunteer firefighter from the Brentwood FD, who resides nearby, heard the alarm activation and went directly to the scene. Without any turnout gear or tools, he courageously made 3 attempts to reach the female victim, but was pushed back by the fire and smoke. Brentwood Fire Department 1st Assistant Chief William Peterson [3-2-31] arrived on scene and immediately requested a re-activation for a working structure fire. Engine 3-22 was first due into the scene, coming to the aid of their brother firefighter and assisted in rescuing the trapped female victim. Once rescued, she was evaluated by Brentwood Legion EMS personnel. An additional victim and the volunteer firefighter who attempted the rescue were also transported for evaluation to Southside Hospital in Bay Shore. Two hand lines were placed into operation and knocked down the main body of fire within 20 minutes of the alarm. The other residents who were home at the time of the fire were removed to safety prior to arrival of fire department apparatus. Extensive overhaul was underway to hit any remaining hot spots. Mutual aid was provided by the Commack FD for the RIT team to the scene and the Bay Shore FD to stand-by at Brentwood FD Headquarters to cover any additional alarms within their district. The Town of Islip Fire Marshal’s were also on scene for an investigation into the cause of the fire, which was reported to be accidental. FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
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EAST MORICHES Fire Guts Kitchen
Story and photo by T. J. Lambui FD Rant News/LiHotShots House damaged by fire in East Moriches Monday, December 15, 2014. On Monday, December 15th, at approximately 14:00 hours, the East Moriches F.D. was notified of a possible house fire on Pine Edge Drive between Sheffield Lane and Newpoint Lane. C.M.F.D.'s 1st arriving unit transmitted a 13/35 for a working structure fire. C.M.F.D. Chief Bryan Kelly, who was in charge of the fire, requested mutual aid and Eastport and Center Moriches F.D.'s responded to the scene while Manorville responded to E.M.F.D.'s quarters to stand-by. The fire, which is believed to have possibly started in home's stove, gutted the kitchen and damaged a major portion of the house. There were no injuries reported at this time and the fire marshal's office is investigating.
BROOKHAVEN
Santa Makes a Special Visit
Story and photo by John Walthers FD Rant News / Suffolk Fire Photos On Saturday December 13th, the TriHamlet area received a special treat; Santa Clause made his way to town with a little assistance. Since Santa forgot his reindeer, he had help from the members of the Brookhaven FD to pull his Sleigh around so he could visit as many children in the town and give out candy Canes. This yearly FD assistance is known as "Operation Santa Clause�. This year Santa visited as many streets as he could on his Fire truck drawn sleigh to bring up the Christmas spirit FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
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SOUTH FARMINGDALE Family Escapes Fast Moving Blaze Story and Photos by Kim Versheck – LNBN
Shortly before 10 pm on December 19th, 2014 the South Farmingdale Fire department was alerted to a possible house fire at 346 Balchen Street. As Assistant Chiefs McFarlane [9701] and Mackie [9702] got on the road, Firecom advised that numerous calls were being received. Second Assistant Chief Mackie arrived on scene to find heavy fire showing from the exposure 3 side of the one story home and transmitted a working fire. During size up it was discovered that a propane tank was involved in the fire and a request for the Nassau County Haz-Mat was made to secure the tank. The propane helped the fire to quickly spread throughout the structure and eventually through the roof. Chief of Department Martin [9700] arrived shortly after and took command of the scene. Engine 971 was first due, taking a hydrant just past the house and Ladder 978 set up in front of the house. With a large volume of fire a call for mutual aid brought Massapequa Engine 635 and Tower Ladder 636, Bethpage Engine 905 and East Farmingdale Ladder 1-5-15 to the scene for work. North Massapequa Ladder 661 would also come to the scene as the FAST Truck. Firefighters put three lines in operation off of Engine 971 and one line from Engine 905 who had picked up a second hydrant on the end of the street. Crews took about an hour to bring the fire under control which was followed by an extensive overhaul. FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
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The three occupants of the home were unaware the house was on fire and were alerted by a passerby who saw the flames coming from the home and pounded on the door to alert the family. Though the family escaped the house, a cat and two dogs did not make it despite efforts to try a locate them. Two firefighters were transported and treated for minor injuries but were later released from area hospitals. Mutual aid coverage for the district was provided by Plainview, Jericho and Hicksville. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Nassau County Fire Marshal Office and the NCPD Arson Squad. Click Here for More Photos
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FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
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KINGS PARK
Retired Engine Sold to Terry Farrell Fund Story and Photos by Jeff DiLavore
On hand for the ceremonial departure from Kings Park were Kings Park made the transfer to the Terry Farrell Fund at their several members who served as Captains of Engine Company office in Bethpage on Monday December 22nd. Photo [L to R]: 1 including [L to R]: Current 2nd Assistant Chief Tim Clark, ExEx-Chief Wayne Reichert, Chairman Ron Hobel, Brian Farrell, and Chief Roy Starke, Ex-Captain and current Commissioner Tom Ex-Chief Roy Starke. Richardson, Ex-Chief Wayne Reichert, and Ex-Captain and current Commissioner Ron Hobel.
The Kings Park Fire Department recently purchased a new Spartan Engine to replace a 1988 Seagrave FWD engine designated unit 4-1-2. The Kings Park Fire District arranged to sell the rig to the Terry Farrell Fund who will, in turn, pass the vehicle on to a department in need. Engine 4-1-2 was recently taken out of service to prepare for the arrival of a 2014 Spartan ERV Rescue Engine which is expected to be in service in January, 2015. In September of this year, the Seagrave pumped its last fire when, by chance, she was first due to a vacant building fire on the grounds of the old Kings Park Psychiatric Center. The vehicle left Kings Park on Tuesday December 23rd headed to Bethpage where they were met by Brian Farrell of the Terry Farrell Fund who accepted the delivery.
Engine 4-1-2 pumping its last fire in Kings Park on September 10, 2014
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SMITHTOWN
Commercial Job on a Rainy Day Story and Photos by Jeff DiLavore FD Rant News
Shortly before 4:00 pm on a foggy and rainy Tuesday December 23rd, the Smithtown Fire Department received a call for a building fire at 59 Landing Avenue near Blydenburg Avenue. Assistant Chief Tim Murphy [4-2-31] was advised by Smithtown Communications [4-2-0] that a couple of calls were being received reporting smoke and flames from the building at that location. When Assistant Chief Kevin Fitzpatrick [4-2-33] arrived on scene he advised there was smoke showing from the building and a re-tone of the alarm as a 13/35 [working fire] was activated and a RIT from St James requested. The one story brick commercial office building had smoke pushing from the physical therapy office in the rear. The fire was located in one room within that office. Engine 4-2-2 entered the parking lot and went to the rear of the building as Ladder 4-2-7 set up on the exposure 4 side of the building. A 1¾” hand line was stretched as crews made entry into the building. Chief Steve Sisino [4-2-30] arrived on scene to assume command as Assistant Chief Mike Landrigan [4-2-32] was assisted with operations. Suffolk County FRES Coordinators Larry Schneckenberger [4-0-1] and Bob DeMoustes [40-3] were also on scene.The fire was quickly located and knocked down the remainder of the building was ventilated using fans. The fire was contained to one room of the physical therapy office with smoke damage to throughout the rest of the building including Legislator Rob Trotta’s office. The Smithtown Fire Marshal was notified to respond as well. Units were on scene for about an hour. FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
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UNIONDALE
Heavy Fire on Arrival
Story and photos by Kevin Madigan K2M Photography
Click Here for More Photos Late on the night of Monday, December 15th, 2014 the Uniondale Fire Department was dispatched to a reported house fire at 867 Smith Street off of Nostrand Avenue. Responding units were advised by Nassau County Fire Communications that at least two calls had been received reporting the fire followed by a report that Nassau County Police were on scene with a working fire. Uniondale Chief of Department Jean Laurent [7500] was one of the first to arrive on scene and was met with heavy fire inside of a two story private dwelling prompting him to transmit a signal ten [working fire]. Uniondale Engine 7522 was the first engine company to arrive on scene and went on to stretch and operate three lines. As the fire raged mutual aid was called to the scene and to standby to assist Uniondale. On scene was Roosevelt Engine 737 and Ambulance 736, Hempstead Ladder 2 along with ambulances from the South Hempstead and North Merrick Fire Departments. North Bellmore was notified for the FAST upon the transmission of the working fire and responded with Ladder 657. Upon arrival North Bellmore members were immediately put to work and the new FAST became Ladder 617 from East Meadow. Late into the operation members of East Meadow were also put to work. Standing by for Uniondale during the operation was West Hempstead Heavy Rescue 762 and Ladder 765, Franklin Square and Munson Engine 712, and Westbury Ambulance 9611. It is believed that the fire began in the laundry room in the basement before extending up to the second floor; however, the cause of the fire remains under investigation. All fire department units were under the command of Uniondale Chief of Department Jean Laurent [7500]. FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
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CENTER MORICHES Sunrise Smash Up
Story and Photos by Kevin Conn On the Morning of December 17, 2014, at about 0740 hours, the Center Moriches Fire Department was activated for a motor vehicle accident with an overturn on the eastbound Sunrise Highway at exit 59. As Chief Ron Primus [5-4-30] was responding, dispatch advised that the accident was now reported to be at the exit 60 eastbound on ramp of Sunrise Highway.Upon Arrival of Chief Primus he advised his Engine 1, Unit 5-4-1, that he would need the Hurst Tools to remove the driver’s door of the Buick Skylark, and that, although the driver of the pickup was still inside his vehicle, he could be easily accessed via the passenger side door of that vehicle. The Crew of 5-4-1 stretched a precautionary booster line and put the tools into operation to quickly remove the driver’s door of the Skylark. The crew then assisted the ambulances from Mastic and Shirley who responded on a mutual aid to the scene with patient care and packaging for transport.Both drivers were extricated from their vehicles and Mastic Ambulance 5-37-19 and Shirley Ambulance 5-38-17 each transported a driver to Brookhaven Memorial Hospital in East Patchogue for evaluation and treatment of what appeared to be non-life threatening injuries.
http://kevco.smugmug.com/FirePhotos/Center-Moriches-FD/AutoAccident-with-Overturn-EB/46424326_3TVKrG#!i=3769348062&k=sP fWzCw
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WEST BABYLON
School Bus Fire Shuts Down the Highway
Story and Photos by Chris Colletti – LNBN On December 17th, around 10:15am, the West Babylon Fire Department was activated for a vehicle fire on Eastbound Sunrise Highway express portion in front of Babylon Bowl. West Babylon Chief of Department Pete McArdle [1-930], while enroute, received additional information from Babylon Central reporting an ex-chief was on scene with an involved mini school bus. Engine 1-9-1 stretched a 1¾’’ hand line and trash line to knock down the main body of fire within the school bus. Chief McArdle requested an additional engine as a precautionary measure. Engine 1-92 arrived on scene and connected a 3’’ supply line to Engine 1-9-1 in case it would be needed for additional water.All FD units operating on scene were up within 45 minutes of the alarm. SCPD highway patrol and 1st precinct units assisting then re-opened the roadway for highway traffic.
West Babylon FD Mini School Bus Fire
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At 12:29 hours on Thursday, December 18th, 2014 the Sea Cliff Fire Department was dispatched to a reported house fire at 88 Prospect Avenue between Sea Cliff Avenue and Cliff Way. As the department began to assemble crews and respond, they were advised by the dispatcher that multiple calls were being received reporting a house under construction and on fire. When units arrived on scene they were met with heavy fire on the second floor and in the attic of a private dwelling undergoing renovations leading to the immediate transmission of the signal ten [working fire]. Upon the transmission of the working fire Glenwood was notified for the FAST and responded with Heavy Rescue 534. Roslyn was notified for an engine to the scene and responded with Engine 566 along with Glen Cove Tiller 5211. The Glen Cove tiller, along with Sea Cliff Ladder 574, was positioned in front of the home. Sea Cliff Engine 572, the first engine company to arrive on scene, was located in the driveway of the home and in doing so was able to leave space in an already tight and uphill street. As the operation went on an additional engine from Roslyn was needed on scene and soon Engine 596 was there. Additional mutual aid to the scene consisted of Syosset Ladder 582 [setup on the road behind the home], Bayville Engine 503, an engine from Locust Valley, and a ladder from East Norwich and Glenwood among others. Due to the heavy fire load the Glenwood FAST was put to work during the operation and was replaced by Oyster Bay. Approximately fifty minutes into the operation all members were pulled out of the home and an exterior attack was put into place. It was at this time that the fire load grew too intense helped by strong winds off of the Long Island Sound and the aged construction of the home. Minutes after pulling out of the home came a full collapse of the roof onto the floors below. Just past two hours into the operation the scene was placed under control [signal twelve transmitted]. Units from Hicksville, Jericho, Port Washington, and Manhasset-Lakeville stood by at firehouses in Sea Cliff, Glenwood, and Glen Cove should any additional calls come in. The fire was believed to have been caused by workers; however, the official cause remains under investigation. All fire department units were under the command of Sea Cliff Chief of Department Ernie Longobucco [5700].
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SEA CLIFF
Renovations Lead to Devastating Fire
Story and photos by Kevin Madigan K2M Photography
Click Here for More Photos
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BELLPORT
Dryer Fire Leads to Work
Story and Photos by John Walthers FD Rant News / Suffolk Fire Photos
On December 23rd, at around 9:18PM the Bellport Fire Department was activated to respond to a reported residential structure fire at 655 Post Avenue. On arrival of the first chief he advised County that he had smoke showing. A working fire assignment was immediately requested and mutual aid was started from Hagerman and Brookhaven for Engines and a RIT crew. As crews arrived from all 3 departments they went to work hitting the hydrant and searching to make sure all occupants were out of the building. Once the fire was knocked down the crew from Hagerman removed a burnt dryer from the house and placed it on the lawn. It was determined that the fire was knocked down and the job was placed under control. The TIC was brought in as part of overhaul to make sure all hot spots were knocked down. All units took up around 10pm with the exception of Bellport who remained to meet the fire marshal . The scene was then turned over to the Marshals Office for investigation.
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EAST NORWICH
Christmas Eve Basement Fire
Story and Photos by Andrew Carpenter Over the Edge Photography On Wednesday December 24th, 2014 at approximately 7:30pm, the East Norwich Fire Company No.1 was dispatched to a possible basement fire at 343 Chicken Valley Road. Upon arrival, Chief Cronin [5100] confirmed a fire in the basement. Quint 513 was first due and stretched a 1ž� line to the basement and a Signal 10 was transmitted. The fire was contained to the basement and quickly extinguished by crews on scene. Multiple pets were removed from the house by firefighters. Mutual aid was requested to the scene from Oyster Bay Company 1, Atlantic Steamer Company 1, Glenwood Fire Company and the Locust Valley Fire department. http://overtheedge.smugmug.com/Fire-Scene-Photography/ Working-Fires/EastNorwich-HF-12242014
NORTH PATCHOGUE
Christmas Day Overturn
Story and Photos by John Walthers FD Rant News/Suffolk Fire Photos On Christmas day just before 2:00pm, the North Patchogue Fire Department was activated for an MVA with a reported overturn in the 500 block of Old North Ocean Avenue. On arrival of the first chief he advised County that the driver had self-extricated and possibly fled the scene. Suffolk Police ESU was requested to continue in to the scene to upright the vehicle. ES6 and ES5 both responded in to the scene. On arrival, they began to upright the vehicle while the driver was being located. The driver was located shortly after and was uninjured. ESU pushed the vehicle off the roadway and all FD units took up afterward.
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SELDEN
Christmas Night Burner
Story and Photos by Chris Sabella Just before 8:00 pm on Christmas night the Selden Fire Department responded to a report of a structure fire at Adirondack Drive in the area of Ormond Drive. Under the direction on Assistant Chief Mike Matteo [5-25-31], 2 hand lines were pulled with one to the side of the building and one to the bay doors in front. Selden firefighters quickly extinguished the flames while protecting the nearby house preventing it from any damage.
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New York Wildfire & Incident Management Academy c/o Central Pine Barrens Joint Planning & Policy Commission 624 Old Riverhead Road Westhampton Beach, NY 11978 (631) 769-1556 Web Address: http://www.dec.ny.gov/education/73.html. For Release: Immediate Tuesday, December 2, 2014 Contact: John W. Pavacic, Executive Director Central Pine Barrens Commission (631) 288-1079 jpavacic@pb.state.ny.us ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------New York Wildfire & Incident Management Academy Concludes 10-day Run Academy Offers Brush Truck Course for Local Volunteer Firefighters and Provides Training to Local Incident Management Personnel Westhampton Beach, NY - The New York Wildfire and Incident Management Academy (NYWIMA), which ran from October 24 through November 2, 2014 concluded its seventeenth year of operations and has now provided training to more than 6,800 firefighters and emergency response personnel over its existence. This year NYWIMA conducted its third Brush Truck Training course oriented toward volunteer firefighters, which focused on two days of classroom instruction which stressed typical Long Island wildland fire situations and a one-day actual in-the-field driving, handling and operational experience designed to closely simulate conditions encountered during actual wildfire incidents. Participants in the course included volunteer firefighters from Deer Park, East Hampton, Flanders, Mastic, Nesconset, Patchogue, and West Babylon who brought their brush trucks for the driving section of the course conducted on forested New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) managed lands and on a sandy course chosen to simulate some of the looser soil conditions volunteer firefighters might encounter on a wildland firefighting response. “The course is very informative and provides you with a lot of tactical and technical information,” Nesconset Fire Department Assistant Chief John C. Martins said. “The driving part is the best hands on course you can go through on Long Island to become proficient with your vehicle. It is a good course for trail trucks and for five ton trucks.” Participating fire departments in the Spring 2014 courses included: Brentwood, Cutchogue, Eastport, East Quouge, Flanders, Gordon Heights, Hagerman, Kings Park, LawrenceCedarhurst, Massapequa, North Babylon, North Sea, Patchogue, Shelter Island, West Babylon and West Sayville. -
More –
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Fall 2013 participating volunteer fire departments included Eastport, Flanders, Lakeland, North Babylon, Orient and Westhampton Beach. “The Academy is proud of the success that this Brush Truck Training course has had over the past year,” Central Pine Barrens Commission Executive Director John Pavacic said. “With 24 departments already having taken this training this shows that the Academy is working to fill a need that the volunteer firefighting community has. Since the Academy was founded its goals has been to enhance local emergency response crew’s expertise and knowledge. Brush truck operators are frontline defenders during wildfire incidents like 2012’s Crescent Bow Fire. Giving them the opportunity to practice driving in wooded areas will aid in future responses, improve firefighter safety and lessen the possibility of mechanical breakdowns which could potentially lead to disastrous impacts during a real wildland fire.” In addition to the Brush Truck training course the Academy also offered free training for volunteer firefighters in Basic Firefighting and Wildfire Behavior and Fire Operations in the Urban Interface. To further aid volunteer firefighting training the Academy also offered the online version of the Basic Firefighting and Wildfire Behavior course which only requires a one-day field day commitment. Volunteers from a number of volunteer fire departments, including Albertson, Coram, East Moriches, East Rockaway, Farmingville and Northport participated in this Basic Firefighting sessions. “The Academy recognizes that volunteer firefighters have a great deal of time commitments and offering the online training opportunity will allow volunteers to learn how to fight wildland fires in a manner which fits their schedule and increases overall wildland firefighting knowledge,” Pavacic said. The Academy's goal is to provide for a safe learning environment for wildland firefighters and all-risk incident managers and to foster greater networking opportunities and partnerships between participants from federal, state, and local agencies. To aid in achieving this objective, the NYWIMA is managed to mirror an actual incident utilizing the Incident Command System (ICS) under the direction of an Incident Management Team (IMT). The IMT reflects the interagency and cooperative nature of today's incident management philosophy with team members coming from federal, state, and local agencies. In total, approximately 555 personnel participated in the 2013 Academy. Participants included 39 overhead staff members and 58 instructors from federal, state and local agencies. Of this total, 425 students were students/emergency responders representing 29 states. The Academy also trained 33 members of local and regional emergency response teams in various Incident Command System roles. In addition, five firefighters from Canadian firefighting units participated in the 2014 Academy. -More-
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“The delegation from New Brunswick and Quebec illustrates the respect that the Academy has generated over its existence both in this country and internationally,” Pavacic said “The fact that these students were able to seamlessly participate in prescribed burns and chainsaw operations classes is a testament to their own skills as firefighters, and the fact that the language of wildland firefighting and emergency response efforts is becoming more universal.” The Academy also produced three special training sessions for members of the Brookhaven Town Safety Officers Association, Fire Department of New York (FDNY), and for Suffolk County Police Department personnel. The Brookhaven Town Safety Association training consisted of three days of field training. Association members examined safety aspects at prescribed burn sites, chainsaw cutting sites and also worked on a scenario involving the creation of a helicopter base. “The Brookhaven Town Safety Officers Association (BTSOA) was invited to attend the Academy and observe various evolutions as safety officers. Six members of the BTSOA observed the chainsaw evolutions, reviewed helicopter landing spots, deployment and dozer operations over a three day period,” BTSOA President Jeff Bailes said. “We performed vehicle inspections and observed many evolutions. I was so impressed by the chainsaw operation, I did not realize there was such a science to cutting down a tree. The training we received far exceeded any training we previously had.” FDNY personnel received an extra day of field observer training which focused on developing urban damage storm assessment forms, mapping information and the use of mapping and location finding tools. Suffolk County Police Department personnel received a special class put on by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Forest Rangers on wilderness search skills. “Besides putting on basic core courses that are the foundation of emergency response efforts, the Academy works with its partners to develop training that meets their specific needs,” Pavacic said. “These two classes show how the Academy can customize training so that it will have the most benefit for groups like the FDNY and the Suffolk Police Department who have long supported the Academy.” This year’s academy also featured four All Hazard Incident Command System classes which the Academy offered in conjunction with the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES). Course offerings were: (L-960) All-Hazards Division Supervisor, (L-965) Resource / Demobilization Unit Leader, (L-969) Communication Unit Leader, and (L-970) Supply Unit Leader. -More-
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“The four courses conducted by the Academy and DHSES allowed individuals who have taken basic training in incident management to begin to focus on what area of the Incident Command System they want to work in,” Pavacic said. “These courses are those that produce support team personnel who make incident management teams and emergency response efforts work.” The Academy’s training program this year also featured strong participation from Town of Islip emergency management personnel. Town personnel worked as Safety Officers, Public Information Officers, Operations and Logistics Section Chiefs and in various Planning Section roles as Resource Unit Leaders and Situation Unit Leaders. “The Academy was pleased to see the great support we received from Town of Islip personnel,” Pavacic said. “At its core the Academy’s mission is to develop local response capabilities. Having such a large delegation from one town shows the Town of Islip’s commitment to emergency response efforts and is a great way for a team to learn to work together.” The Central Pine Barrens Commission’s Wildfire Task Force conducted the Academy with a consortium of federal, state and county agencies including: (Federal) Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service, United States Coast Guard, United States Forest Service, United States Fish and Wildlife Service; (State) Massachusetts Department of Environmental Management, New Jersey Forest Fire Service, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES), New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control, Stony Brook Southampton College and (City, County and Other Organizations) Dowling College, Fire Department of New York (FDNY), Suffolk County Department of Fire, Rescue, and Emergency Services, and the Colorado Wildfire Academy. The Academy was developed in response to the 1995 Long Island Pine Barrens wildland fires as well as to the increased overall frequency of wildland fires on Long Island. All courses were taught by certified wildland fire and incident command instructors, and meet all National Wildfire Coordination Group (NWCG) and DHSES standards. "The courses were extremely successful and the New York Academy contributed to expanding the pool of certified resources that will be available for the 2015 wildland fire season, and to respond to other types of emergency incidents locally and nationally," Pavacic said. For further information regarding the Academy, please contact the Academy at (631) 769-1556, or visit the Academy's website: http://www.dec.ny.gov/education/73.html. ###
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NEW YORK WILDFIRE & INCIDENT MANAGEMENT Pine Barrens
Photos by Bill Fonda
Firefighters in Portable Pumps work on setting up a pumping operation. Portable pumps are used extensively on wildland firefighting assignments on both the East and West coasts to help put out fires in areas where fire hydrants may be difficult to find. Portable pumps can also be used to fill fire trucks in areas without hydrants.
Students in a Field Observer course stand outside the Academy’s Incident Command tents. Suffolk County allowed the Academy to utilize the tents as part of an exercise to see how effective they would be as a command post for a real “all-risk” incident.
Firefighters practice getting into a fire shelter as part of the training in the Basic Firefighter course. Shelters are used as a last safety resort in wildfire blowup conditions. The Basic Firefighter course is free for volunteer firefighters in Nassau and Suffolk counties.
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A sawyer in the Wildfire Powersaws and Storm Debris Removal class checks the top of the tree as part of the tree felling process. Wildfire Powersaws provides sawyers with basic skills in how to maintain a saw, limb and buck trees and how to fell trees. The Storm Debris portion of the course focuses on some of the safety hazards sawyers may face if called to respond to hurricane debris removal assignments and other suburban and urban natural disasters. Course is appropriate for wildland and volunteer firefighters as well as department of public works personnel who do extensive tree removal work.
Firefighters do an inspection on a dozer that was used as part of the Wildfire Academy’s Heavy Equipment Boss class. Students later directed the dozer on Brookhaven National Lab and New York State Department of Environmental Conservation properties to widen fuel breaks on these lands.
Firefighters in Portable Pumps work on setting up a pumping operation. Portable pumps are used extensively on wildland firefighting assignments on both the East and West coasts to help put out fires in areas where fire hydrants may be difficult to find. Portable pumps can also be used to fill fire trucks in areas without hydrants.
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NORTH PATCHOGUE Christmas Day Overturn
Story and Photos by John Walthers FD Rant News/Suffolk Fire Photos On Christmas day just before 2:00pm, the North Patchogue Fire Department was activated for an MVA with a reported overturn in the 500 block of Old North Ocean Avenue. On arrival of the first chief he advised County that the driver had selfextricated and possibly fled the scene. Suffolk Police ESU was requested to continue in to the scene to upright the vehicle. ES6 and ES5 both responded in to the scene. On arrival, they began to upright the vehicle while the driver was being located. The driver was located shortly after and was uninjured. ESU pushed the vehicle off the roadway and all FD units took up afterward.
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MASTIC
Santa Run has Special Engagement Photos and Story by Kevin Conn During the annual Mastic Fire Department Santa run on Wednesday December 17, 2014, Santa made a stop at the home of Carol Bender, wife of the late Tony Bender; who was considered the “Life member of the Mastic FD”. This, in itself, was not out of the ordinary. What WAS out of the ordinary and making this stop special was that Carol & Tony’s grandson, Mastic Firefighter, Kyle Bender, was about to propose to his girlfriend of 7 ½ years, Heather Markiewicz. Kyle had mentioned, earlier as we spoke, that he wanted to make it a special and surprising occasion. He believed Heather would suspect something if they were to go out to a fancy dinner or take a trip into NYC. So Kyle made arrangements with Chief Rudy Sunderman Jr, to have Santa deliver him to Heather for the special moment.Once arriving at the home, Kyle moved the unsuspecting Heather aside, he took a knee and popped the question, to which she quickly said YES!!No date has been set yet, but plans are being made for their wedding. Congratulations to the future Mr. & Mrs. Kyle Cosgrove.
Editor’s note: From all of us here at FD Rant News, we would like to wish Kyle and Heather a lifetime of happiness together. God Bless. – Jeff D.
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BRENTWOOD
Mechanical Mishap Leads to Loss of Building Story by Jeff DiLavore – FD Rant News Photos by Jeff DiLavore and Chris Sabella
The Brentwood Fire Department began a busy couple of days when they were alerted to a reported building fire at 725 Suffolk Avenue at the BP gas station at 1645 hours on Monday December 22nd. While responding, Assistant Chief Mike Derbyshire [3-2-32] was advised by Brentwood Dispatch [3-2-0] that smoke was visible from the dispatch office several blocks away. The alarm was re-transmitted as a 13/35 [working fire] and mutual aid was requested from the Bay Shore Fire Department for a RIT. He advised the first due engine to secure a water supply and begin to attack the fire. There was heavy fire present in all three bays of the mechanic’s shop where three vehicles were being repaired. Islip sent an engine to the scene and Central Islip sent a ladder. Chief Javier Valentin [3-2-30] arrived on scene and assumed command of the extended operation. The fire was darkened down in the repair shop but continued to burn in the convenience store. There were partial collapses of the building on the number 3 exposure and all members were advised to not enter the building. Brentwood Ladder 3-2-18 set up on the exposure 4 side of the building and prepared for a ladder pipe operation as the fire vented through the roof. Several 2½” hand lines were in operation throughout before the fire was finally brought under control approximately 2 hours later. . FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
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Brentwood Legion Ambulance was on scene and treated one firefighter from Brentwood for undisclosed injuries. The Town of Islip Fire Marshal was requested to respond to the scene for an investigation as was Town of Islip Building Department and New York State DEC. Preliminary reports had the fire starting after a car being repaired had a gasoline leak that found an ignition source Click Here for More Photos
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WEST HEMPSTEAD
Close Calls at 3rd Alarm House Fire
Story by Andrew Carpenter and Jeff DiLavore Photos by Andrew Carpenter – Over the Edge Photography Additional Photos by Sharon Herrera-Hempstead Fire Department
Click Here for More Photos On Wednesday December 26th, 2014 just after 3pm, the West Hempstead Fire Department responded to a report of a dryer fire at 243 Spruce Street between Hempstead Avenue and Plymouth Street. Upon arrival of West Hempstead Assistant Chief Dave Norton [7602] he immediately transmitted smoke showing and upgraded the call to a Signal 10 [working fire]. Upon being met with fire in the basement, first and second floors, the fire was quickly upgraded to a 2nd alarm due to the large volume of fire which brought Elmont as the FAST, an Engine from Franklin Square & Munson, and Ladder 2 from Hempstead to the scene. Chief of Department Peter Lilli [7600] arrived on scene and assumed command. Ambulances from South Hempstead and Uniondale were also requested to the scene During operations, members operating in the basement transmitted a Mayday after becoming disoriented. The members were quickly located and assisted out of the basement and a 3rd alarm was transmitted which brought additional truck companies from East Meadow and Malverne and an engine from Rockville Centre. The standby units for the duration of the alarm were Roosevelt with an Engine, Lakeview truck and Stewart Manor ambulance. The fire was extinguished in approximately 30 minutes and the injured members were transported to Nassau University Medical Center with minor injuries where they were treated and released. FD Rants News - Volume 4 Edition 1 - January 2015
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SUPPORT OU We hope you have enjoyed viewing Long Island FD Rant News. I would like to say thank you to all of our wonderful contributors and encourage all of you to visit their websites and also to contact our authors to discuss their articles. To show how our new model is better than any other fire news publication out there, each month we will be grouping all of our contributors together on this page, making it easier to locate and connect with all of the month’s contributors; authors and photographers.
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UR SPONSORS
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Jeff DiLavore is a past Chief of the Lakeview Fire Department [1999-2000], a Registered Nurse and a former E MT-CC.
He is also the owner of Nassau FD Rant and Suffolk FD Rant websites and the publisher and editor of Long Island FD Rant News. He can be reached at 631.766.3287 or via email at: FDRantNews@verizon.net
Jim McNamara (Jimmy Mac) is a 25 year member and Ex-Chief of the North Bellmore Fire Department, served as the
Department’s Training Coordinator, and is a founding member of both North Bellmore’s and the 6th Battalion Technical Rescue Team. Jimmy worked for the Nassau County Fire Marshal’s office for 14 years spending the last 12 as a Specialist on the Hazardous Material Response Team. He also spent 9 years as a 2nd Deputy Chief Instructor a t the Nassau County Fire Service Academy where he taught Technical Rescue, Vehicle Extrication, Haz Mat, WMD a nd numerous other classes. Chief McNamara is currently the Adjunct Instructor for Distant Learning for the N assau FD.
Phil Lichtenberger is the owner of Monitor Long Island, Inc. which owns W2LIE.net, LongIslandFirePhotos.com, a nd
manages several other sites. Phil has been a licensed Amateur Radio operator since 1994 and has been listening to scanner and short-wave for 20 years. You can contact him at w2lie@w2lie.net.
Dominic Orlando is a member of the East Rockaway Fire Department with experience in the fire service ranging from volunteer service in the states of North and South Carolina and here in New York. He has been involved in one way or another with the fire service since joining the junior fire department in 1997. He is a veteran of the US Marine Corps, spending 8 years on active duty and having completed 4 separate combat tours overseas in Iraq and Afghanistan. He still remains active as a reservist with 2nd Battalion, 25th Marines out of Garden City, N.Y. as their intelligence section chief.
Mike Capoziello is a 28 year member of Hook and Ladder Co.#2 and former Chief [2011-12] of the Elmont FD. He
serves as a Department Training Officer, Public Information Officer and Historian. He has 20 plus years experience as a houseman and dispatcher in various Nassau County departments and is currently a Supervising dispatcher with Nassau County Firecom, training officer for the Fieldcom unit-Member of the Nassau County fire service Critical Incident Stress team for the past 11 years and is a liaison for the team to the Nassau County Fire Commission.
Duane Welliver is a 25 year member and former Fire Captain of the East Farmingdale Fire Department.
He currently serves as the Technical Rescue Captain and a Training Officer for the Department. He is a N.Y.S. Certified Fire Instructor II. Also has 10 years experience as a full time Instructor with the New York City Police Department. He can be reached at 631.505.3778 or via email at: FRSTraining@aol.com.
Jeff O’Toole joined the Fire Service in 1977, belonging to four different Nassau Departments. Presently a firefight-
er/ EMT-CC in Bethpage Engine & Ladder Co. 4, and an Assistant Decon Team Leader. He is active with the Hazmat/WMD Committee of the Nassau County Fire Commission. You can contact him at nchazmat@optonline.net.
Tim Ivers has been a Police Officer for 30 years. He has been with the NCPD Emergency Service Unit since 1995.
Prior to working in the NCPD he was a Police Officer with the NYPD. He is a past member of the Levittown Fire Dept. In addition to the usual training and certifications necessary for the police department, he is a Haz-Mat Technician as well as a WMD Technician. He holds a NYS Certification in Vehicle Extrication and is trained and certified as a Hurst Extrication Tool instructor. Tim can be reached at: ESU2422@gmail.com
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