The Bravest
OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE
UNIFORMED FIREFIGHTERS ASSOCIATION OF GREATER NEW YORK
MARCH/APRIL 2006
A YEAR FOR THE RECORD BOOKS is not using every resource to protect its citizens. Constant training of our members is necessary to have the highest quality firefighting force possible. However, closing companies in order to provide this training is wrong. There are other options available to the Department besides stripping communities of their fire protection. This has its repercussions. 2005 saw 102 civilians killed as a result of fire, an increase of 25% from the previous year. The Department has shamelessly President’s Message cut the Fire Marshal force causing a strain By STEPHEN J. CASSIDY on the number of fires investigated. The City claims that “every suspicious fire gets 2005 was the busiest year in the history investigated.” This is untrue. In order to be of the New York City Fire Department. A determined suspicious, Fire Marshals must record 485,702 calls were responded to by be available to investigate. The dramatic the Firefighters of this City - an increase of cuts have slashed the amount of fires being 6.4% from 2004. In 1977, the year previinvestigated. Thus, lowering the number of ously considered the busiest, Firefighters fires determined incenresponded to 459,567 calls. diary and allowing However, 2005 shattered arsonists to run free. 2005 2004 Increase/Decrease % Change that mark by more than Arson remains one Total Firefighter 26,000. Responses: 485,702 456,689 +29,013 +6.4% of the leading causes of Almost all categories of Total Fires: 51,395 50,148 +1247 +2.5% fire deaths. It also proresponse showed an Structural Fires: 28,455 27,711 + 744 +2.7% vides a means for crimincrease. Both structural Non-Structural Fires 22,940 22,437 + 503 +2.2% inals to reap insurance and non-structural fires Total Non-Fire/Medical payments by purposely were up, as were medical Emergencies 402,169 369,209 +32,960 +8.9% setting fire to property responses. Firefighters also Non-Fire Emergencies 199,643 180,047 +19,596 +10.8% and vehicles. The elimMedical Emergencies 202,526 189,162 +13,364 +7.1% responded to more non-fire ination of Marshals False Alarms 32,138 37,332 - 5194 13.9% emergencies such as CO adversely affects the incidents and water leaks; City’s capability to while receiving fewer investigate these reports of malicious false alarms. schemes and opens the door to those seekand Fire Marshals can be attributed to the Once again, the membership stepped up ing to gain monetary rewards for damaging increase in civilian fire fatalities in 2005. to task and handled the increased workload. property. The closing of engine companies, along We have an administration whose main A recent tragedy in Brooklyn has highwith the Department’s practice of placing focus is productivity in the agencies. The lighted the importance and necessity of Fire as many as 20 units out-of-service each day staggering number of responses by our for training, has its toll. If companies do membership should be enough to convince (Continued on page 2) not remain open around the clock, the City them that more, not less, is the way to properly protect the people of New York. We will continue to press for the allocation of needed resources to our Firefighters in this post 9-11 world. While the City scrutinizes numbers and analyzes data, you put yourselves in danger and shoulder the immense task of this increased workload. They raise issues of response times and medical leave when Firefighters are constantly running from one job to the next. Rather than punish our members for results incurred by their draconian policies, they should be providing us with the means to do our job properly. This means re-opening companies and providing the best equipment possible to our members. Increased Fire Fatalities The City’s cutbacks in line companies
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President’s Message (Continued from page 1) Marshals. Marshal Rep Lester Layne has written an article which explores this further for this issue of Fire Lines. Fire Safety Education Initiative A way to help decrease the number of fire-related deaths in the City is increased fire safety education. The UFA recently established a partnership with Dr. Frank Field to educate the children of New York about the dangers of fire. Dr. Field, a wellknown former science editor at WCBS-TV, has made the education of children on fire safety one of his passions. He came to the UFA offices in February and met with me to solicit help from the UFA in promoting a DVD/Video he produced titled “Fire Is.” After reviewing the video and seeing its educational value, we agreed to partner with him in this endeavor. This informative and professional video teaches about the dangers of fire and its characteristics. He joined me at Manhattan’s Epiphany School on March 7th to announce our effort. Manhattan Trustee Danny Murphy has penned an article further detailing the joint initiative and its ben-
Fire Lines efits in this issue of Fire Lines. Apparatus Update I also have an update on the unsafe use of outdated apparatus by the Department. As a result of our public relations campaign to highlight this dangerous practice, the City Council has taken notice. The council called a special hearing on February 28 in which I was to appear and give testimony regarding the issue. However, the Department needed more time to prepare their testimony and as a result the hearing was postponed. This is typical of an administration that refuses to accept responsibility for their mistakes. If they think they can postpone and let this issue blow over, they are sadly mistaken. We will continue to press the Council to hold a public hearing on the City’s faulted process of obtaining rigs and placing unsafe spares into service. This issue is of paramount concern for the UFA. If we have to go above the Fire Commissioner to get it resolved, we will. Fraternally,
MARCH/APRIL 2006
UFA Lobby Day Set June 6th, 2006 By JAMES SLEVIN UFA Vice President/ Legislative Chairman ark your calendars; the 2006 UFA Lobby Day will take place on June 6th. All members must make an effort to attend this important event. Without your help and support, we can not convince our elected officials to pass important legislation that affects New York’s Firefighters. Last year, more than 75 Firefighters joined the UFA Executive Board in traveling to Albany to meet with State Legislators; including Governor Pataki, Majority Leader Bruno and Speaker Silver. As a result, The WTC Presumptive Bill was finally signed into law.
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UFA Lobby Day (Continued from previous page) This year we hope to double that number and send 150 firefighters to our state capital. The UFA will once again provide transportation to and from Albany. During the day, members will be expected to meet with their local elected officials. In order to do so you will need to set up an appointment. Contact information as well as a list of who your representatives are can be found on the UFA website under the section labeled Political Action at www.ufanyc.org. Once again, appointments will be made to meet with Governor Pataki, Speaker Silver and Majority Leader Bruno. In addition, a reception will be held at the conclusion of the day where UFA members can interact with their elected representatives in a less formal setting. Company Delegates should compile a list of those members who will be joining us in Albany. All members will be provided with a full copy of our agenda and important information on how to effectively lobby. A short list of our current legislative agenda is set forth below: PENSION PROTECTION BILL Enacts provisions relating to vested retirement rights; removes requirement that at time of retirement that member’s term of office or tenure of employment shall not have terminated or been forfeited. MTA FARE WAIVER Provides fares free of charge to certain members of the Fire Department of the City of New York on passenger transportation facilities. CUNY TUITION WAIVER Requires regulations to permit tuition waivers for students in CUNY degree programs who are officers or members of the New York City Fire Department. STROKE PRESUMPTION BILL This bill would expand the current law that creates a presumption that heart disease was caused on the job to include stroke or hypertension for Firefighters. CASH FOR TERMINAL LEAVE Allows members of New York City Fire Department the option of taking a monetary payment in lieu of terminal leave at the rate applicable on the date of retirement.
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UFA Teams up for Fire Safety By DANIEL MURPHY Manhattan Trustee t’s our obligation.” That was the sentiment of UFA President Steve Cassidy in announcing the UFA’s partnership with former WCBS-TV Science Editor Dr. Frank Field to educate the City’s youth on the dangers of fire. The announcement was made at Manhattan’s Epiphany School on March 7th. Here, Steve and I joined Dr. Field, his
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President Cassidy addresses students regarding the importance of fire safety.
daughter Allison and Firefighters from companies throughout Manhattan to show 100 4th and 5th grade students the educational video “Fire Is.” The video was written and produced by Dr. Field as a way to accurately portray the dangers of fire. The UFA has agreed to purchase 2000 DVD’s and distribute them to firehouses as a way to help educate the community about the nature, movement and effects of fire. The video also explores proactive solutions to combat the dangers of fire in the home. “Fire safety begins in the home. This educational tool will help scores of teachers, parents and children learn the real dangers of fire and what to do in the case of an emergency,” said Steve Cassidy. “By increasing public outreach and awareness of this issue, we will ultimately help decrease the amount of fire related injuries to both civilians and Firefighters alike.” (Continued on page 11)
Active E-37
REMINDER: DON’T FORGET TO SEND IN YOUR WTC DISABILITY REGISTRATION FORM!
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Memorializing Those We Lost Our Fallen Bronx Brothers By EDWARD BROWN Bronx Trustee n a cold, rainy, January day in the Bronx, hundreds of firefighters stood at attention outside the quarters of Engine Company 46 / Ladder Company 27 while hundreds more squeezed into the standing-room-only firehouse to memorialize two of New York’s Bravest. It was the one-year anniversary of the deaths of Lieutenants John Bellew, Ladder 27, and Curtis Meyran, Battalion 26. The mourners came from across the City and throughout the tri-state area to pay their respects. Bellew and Meyran were killed in the line of duty on January 23, 2005, a day in which Firefighter Richard Sclafani of Ladder 103 also lost his life in a fire in Brooklyn. It was a day the media dubbed “Black Sunday,” due to the largest loss of life for the New York City Fire Department since 9-11.
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Both Bellew and Meyran died after they were forced to jump from a 4th floor window at 236 East 178th Street in the Tremont section of the Bronx. They became trapped above a fast moving third-alarm blaze with Firefighters Jeff Cool, Eugene Stolowski, and Lt. Joseph DiBernardo of Rescue 3, along with FF Brendan Cawley of Ladder 27. The remaining four men suffered critical injuries as a result of the fall. A number of speakers took part in the plaque dedication ceremony inside the firehouse. However, none took on more significance than the families of the brave firefighters. Lt. Meyran’s 11-year old daughter Angela offered a poem she wrote titled “Last Alarm,” about the day her father was killed. It brought a house full
of firefighters to tears. “And my father went to work one day and he kissed us all goodbye. Little did we know that next morning, we’d all cry,” she read. Jeanette Meyarn also addressed the crowd of Firefighters. “To the men that make up this Department, I am sure that you have an angel watching over your shoulders,” she said. Terry Bellew spoke about the memories he had of his brother and shared some stories about John. “I wish I could have one more cold run with him down Hunter Mountain, or just one more Irish Coffee with my brother John.”
A video tribute to John was put together by his wife Eileen. It featured photographs from throughout his life and culminated with a collage of photos featuring his wife and children. The video was set to some of John’s favorite music and provided a clear insight into the kind of man he was. When the plaques were blessed, after the speeches and tributes, the drum of bagpipes played one more song to the fallen heroes.
Brooklyn Remembers Richie Sclafani By JOHN KELLY BROOKLYN TRUSTEE cross town in Brooklyn on January 23, 2005, just hours after the losses took place in the Bronx, another Firefighter lost his life in the performance of duty. Firefighter Richard Sclafani of Ladder Company 103 was killed as he was searching for trapped occupants in the basement of 577 Jerome Avenue in East New York. On January 24, 2006 UFA President
Steve Cassidy joined the Sclafani family and Department officials inside the quarters of Engine Company 290 / Ladder 103, “The Pride of Sheffield Avenue” to memorialize Richard.
“I had the honor of working along side Richie and I can tell you he was a great Firefighter,” said President Cassidy. “He became a firefighter because he wanted to do more. He requested a transfer from Manhattan to Brooklyn in order to be in a busier Company because he wanted to do more. That is not something you find each day. He was special and he is missed.” A heartfelt dedication was also given by Richard Sclafani’s sister Joanne, who was joined at the podium by his mother Joan. “Richard, you have made mommy and daddy very proud in life and even after your death, we are still honored to have loved and lucky to have known you,” she said. After the speeches concluded, President Cassidy presented Sclafani’s mother and sister with a plaque from the UFA. It was inscribed with his badge number and is a testament to his dedication and love of being a Firefighter. In the words of his sister Joanne, “We will never forget.”
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President Cassidy presents the Sclafani family with UFA Memorial Plaque.
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Brooklyn Arsonist Highlights the Need for Fire Marshals By LESTER LAYNE Fire Marshal Representative n the early morning hours of February 25, an arsonist doused the stairwell of 1033 Pacific Street in Brooklyn with a flammable liquid and torched the four-story apartment building. The fast-moving fire claimed the lives of four residents, two of them children. Just minutes later, a second incendiary fire was set at 1162 Pacific Street. Thankfully, the fire was extinguished quickly and no one was injured. These two fires are representative of a problem which is affecting the residents of New York City, especially those who live within the confines of Brooklyn’s 77th Precinct. There are tell-tale signs of an arsonist on the loose and the shortage of FDNY Fire Marshals available to investigate these crimes has hindered the City’s ability to catch this criminal. In the past four years the number of qualified Fire Marshals available to investigate the cause and origin of fires has been cut in half. We are the world’s foremost experts on establishing the cause of a fire and determining whether it is accidental or suspicious in nature. We train law enforcement personnel from across the world in our proven techniques and are recognized as the authority in fire investigation. There is no telling how many deliber-
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ately set fires go uninvestigated on a daily basis. The Department automatically dispatches Marshals on third-alarm fires, when a 10-45 signal is given (civilian fire injury), Firefighter death, or when a chief specialcalls a unit to the scene. Every major fire (all-hands and above) should be investigated regardless of protocol. While the Department counters in media reports that all suspicious fires are investigated, they fail to inform the public of the thousands of serious fire scenes that fail to be visited by Marshals as a result of budget cuts. In the case of the Pacific Street fires, if there had been an adequate number of Marshals available to thoroughly investigate the suspicious activity, a pattern may have been established and the criminal could have been apprehended or deterred from his plan. The sad truth is that under the Department’s current protocols and due to the reduction in Marshals, if there was no loss of life at the fire, it may not have been investigated. I recently joined some of our elected officials at Brooklyn Borough Hall in calling on the City to provide more resources to the Fire Marshals. Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz and City Councilwoman Letetia James were among those in attendance to highlight the need for more Marshals.
It is a travesty that the Fire Department relies on news media to provide us with raw footage of fire scenes to help identify possible perpetrators. Proper equipment and resources are sorely needed. In addition, the current citywide night tour consists of four Fire Marshals in two cars to cover the entire City. How can this be justified? It is a well-known fact that the majority of deadly and serious fires occur at night. When one car of Marshals is called to a scene, they are unavailable for additional calls. What happens when both cars are working? No one is available and an opportunity is missed. While the NYPD’s Arson and Explosion Squad is seeing its numbers increase exponentially, the Fire Marshals are dwindling. The Marshals and cops have a close working relationship but the Detectives are not the experts in fire investigation, we are. Once we determine the cause and origin, then the investigation can begin and the cops can utilize their numbers and resources if the fire is determined incendiary. The New York City Fire Marshals are the world’s oldest fire investigative body. With a history that dates back to 1854, before the establishment of the FDNY, NYPD Detective Bureau, FBI and Secret Service and with more than 200,000 investigations to its credit, it boggles the mind why the City would cut resources to one of its most productive and historic assets.
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Important Retiree Information D. Name of your union Send this information to: Office of Labor Relations Employee Health Benefits Program 40 Rector Street – 3rd Floor New York, NY 10006 Attn: Medicare Division If you are in an HMO (Example HIP, AETNA, etc.) you must inform your health carrier that you are going on Medicare due to forms that need to be filled out with your health provider. 3. Make notification of any change in status The Security Benefit Fund must be informed of any changes in your status. For example: A. When you get married, we need a copy of the marriage certificate B. When you become a new parent we need a copy of the birth certificate C. If you get divorced we need a copy of first and last page of the divorce decree D. When a spouse dies we need a copy of the death certificate E. When you move please update your address with the SBF To change your address with the NYC Fire Department or to make changes for direct deposit please call pension and payroll at 718999-2327 4. Changing Health or Dental Plans Changing Health Plans You can change health plans every other year during the even numbered years (2004, 2006, 2008, etc). The normal time to change is in November or December in order to take effect the following January. You may also change plans at anytime if you move out of your health plan service area. A change can
By JAMES DAHL UFA Retiree Liaison This article contains important information pertinent to all current and future retirees. Please save the following and use as a reference for any future problems. 1. Notification of death of a retired Firefighter Notification of a retired firefighter’s death is made to the NYC Fire Department by calling 718-999-2320 or 718-999-2321. Retirees have a life insurance policy in the amount of $5800 with the FDNY Life Insurance Fund. This is the $9 deduction on your earnings statement listed as Fire Life. Members who have retired after January 1, 1971 have a death benefit with the Security Benefit Fund (SBF) in the following amounts: Up to age 49 50 to 69 70 and over
$10,000 $5,000 $2,500
A claim for this benefit will be sent to your beneficiary when we receive notification of death. 2. Reimbursement for Medicare part “B” If you are receiving a City pension check and both you and your spouse are enrolled in a City health plan, you will be reimbursed for your Medicare part “B” by the City of New York. You should send the following information to Employee Health Benefits. Make a copy of your Medicare card to show that you have both parts “A” and “B” and include the following information: Birth dates for yourself and your spouse A. Your retirement date B. Your pension number C. Name of your health plan
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occur outside the normal change period “Once in a lifetime.” If this option is used, you can only change during the allotted change over period, or if you move out of your service area. Changing Dental Plans You may change dental plans each year between October 15th and December 15th. Most plan changes take effect on January 1st. James Dahl is available Monday, Wednesday, Friday 9AM – 4PM 212-683-4723, Ext. 5977 Correction: The wallet cards recently sent to retirees incorrectly list General Prescription as the drug carrier. The correct plan is Pharmacare, formerly EHS. They can be reached at 1-866-832-0563. Also, the correct # for the SBF is 212-683-4723 Please refer to the following as a summary of Retired Security Benefit Fund Benefits: Summary of R.F.S.B.F ELIGIBILITY: Retired Firefighters and Fire Marshals, who retired on or after January 1, 1971 (July 9, 1993 for Wipers), and their eligible dependents, including duly registered domestic partners and their dependents. U.F.A. SELF INSURED HEALTHPLEX: Retiree is reimbursed in accordance with the RSBF Schedule of Fees a dental form must be filled out. $1,500.00 Limitation per family member per 12 month period Orthodontic services for dependents under 19 years of age only. DENTCARE PROGRAM: A Pre-paid comprehensive dental program- provides the necessary dental care, including orthodontics at no cost to the member, except for elective general anesthesia, porcelain crown, porcelain w/metal or pontic - $50.00. Orthodontic services for dependents under 19 years. Members must select a dentist from the DENTCARE panel of dentists. Cosmetic dental treatment not covered. AMERICAN DENTAL: Effective January 1, 1995, Retirees residing in Florida may elect coverage by the American Dental Plan (ADP), a Preferred Provider Plan with most routine and preventive care provided at no charge after payment of $5.00 routine office visit fee. A defined schedule of reduced fees applies for other general dental services. Participating ADP specialist’s charge 25% below their usual fees. OPTICAL: One eye exam and either one pair single vision, bifocal or contact lenses (subject to providers’ surcharges), for Retirees and eligible dependents EVERY TWO YEARS through optical provider panel Effective January 1, 1999, maximum of $60.00 ($15-exam, $20-Frame,$25-Lenses, $45-Contact Lenses) reimbursed to Retiree if other than provider (s) is used. DEATH BENEFIT: Only the Retiree is covered for this benefit insured through the AIG Life Companies Payment is made to the designated primary or Contingent beneficiary of an eligible deceased Retiree upon submission of a completed claim form with certified death certificate.
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(Continued from previous page) Effective April 1, 1997, coverage based upon age is: Up to Age 49 $10,000.00 Age 50 to 69 $ 5,000.00 Age 70 and over $ 2,500.00 HEARING AID: Effective January 1,1999, Retiree is reimbursed up to $600.00 towards hearing aid (s) purchased in a five-year period upon referral of a physician or audiologist. Send the paid bill, a copy of the prescription and a copy of the audiologist report to the R. F. S. B. F. for reimbursement. PRESCRIPTION PLAN : Plan administered by PharmaCare (formerly Eckerd Health Services) effective September 1, 2004. Insulin (including oral agents) and diabetes equipment and supplies are covered by All City Health Plans (NON-MEDICARE). MEDICARE members are covered under PharmaCare. Up front annual family deductible $125. PARTICIPATING PHARMACY: Once this deductible is met you will pay 35% of the cost of the drug or a minimum $5 Generic/ $20 Brand-name. Retirees can obtain up to a 30-day supply at a participating pharmacy NON-PARTICIPATING PHARMACY: Retirees using non-participating pharmacies can obtain up to a 30-day supply and may be reimbursed up to average wholesale price + dispensing fee, minus co-pay. Up-front annual deductible of $125 must be met first before copays apply. Reimbursement claim forms can be obtained by calling PHARMACARE at 1-866-832-0563.
ANNUAL FAMILY DRUG CAP - $5,000. MAINTENANCE DRUGS MAIL ORDER: If you or an eligible family member regularly takes medication for chronic long-term conditions such as arthritis, high blood pressure, heart conditions, etc., you may receive up to a 90-day supply of maintenance medication through EHS’ mail service pharmacy. NOTE: No deductible will be required for prescriptions being filled at mail service. 35% of the cost of the drug still applies to mail order. Deductible still applies to retail prescriptions. PICA: Plan administered by NPA. If you have any questions contact NPA’s Customer Service Department at 1-800-467-2006. Sponsor Number 2020. Effective July 1st 2005, Most Injectable and Chemotherapy Medications will continue to be covered under PICA (non- medicare) while transferring the asthma and psychotropic drugs to the UFA Retired Security Benefit Fund Prescription Drug Plan administered by PharmaCare. INJECTABLE AND CHEMOTHERAPY MEDICATIONS UP to a 30 dav supplv at Retail Pharmacy: $10 Generic $25 Preferred Brand (Formulary) $45 Non-Preferred Brand (Non-Formulary)* UP to a 90 day supply at the Mail Order Pharmacy: $20 Generic $50 Preferred Brand (Formulary) $90 Non-Preferred (Non-Formulary)* Annual Deductible for Injectable and Chemotherapy Medications EffectiveJanuary 1st 2006, there will be an annual deductible of $100 per person for
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Page 7 Injectable and Chemotherapy Medications. This deductible is independent of any other deductible. *If you choose a non-preferred brand drug that has a generic equivalent you will pay the difference in cost between the non-preferred brand drug and the generic drug PLUS the non-preferred brand co-payment. (Increase in Co-Pays: Effective July 1st 2005) MEDICARE members are covered under PharmaCare. Up-front deductible co-pays and annual family cap apply. CATARACT LENSES: R. F. S. B. F allows up to $75.00 towards purchase after health plan Medicare etc has paid its portion. Send the paid bill and health plans (s) Explanation of Benefits (E O B ) To the R . F. S. B. F office for reimbursement. SURGICAL ASSISTANCE FUND: R F S B F pays the yearly dues for its eligible Retirees. DEPENDENT STUDENT 19-23 YEARS OF AGE: Dependent full-time students covered to the end of the calendar year of the unmarried, dependent student’s 23rd birthday, or until Graduation, whichever occurs first. STUDENT VERIFICATION MUST BE ON FILE EVERY SEMESTER. HANDICAPPED DEPENDENTS: Retiree MUST notify basic health carrier when dependents become mentally or physically handicapped, prior to 19 yrs of age. Dependent must be unmarried, living at home and dependent upon retiree for support. Upon receipt of the health carrier’s confirmation that the dependent is handicapped, R.F.S.B.F. coverage will be continued while the criteria are met. VESTED RETIREES: Vested Retirees may enroll in the R F S B F to cover themselves and their eligible dependents for the following benefits upon payment of the City’s contractual contribution (5/31/02 = $1,475) Death Benefit , Dental, Prescription, Optical, Cataract, Hearing Aid Benefits Coverage does not include the City’s Health Plans. In all cases where there is a change of family status, member must file an ERB and forward it to: For Medicare questions call or write: Employee Health Benefits Program Employee Health Benefit Program 40 Rector Street 3rd Floor New York, NY 10006 (212) 513-0470 WIDOWS’ BENEFITS The Retired Security Benefits Fund provides benefits for widows and eligible dependents of retired firefighters, who retired after January 1, 1971 (July 9, 1993 for wipers) who becomes widowed after July 1, 1987, will be entitled to the same health plan and benefits under the RFSBF for a period of ONE YEAR ONLY. The Trustees of the Fund reserve the right to modify or discontinue the benefits of the Fund at any time. Notification of changes in the benefits or procedures will be sent to your address as listed on the Fund records.
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Lower Manhattan Fire Cuts By Herb Eysser, UFA Staff n the evening of January 21, 2006 a five-alarm fire heavily damaged a six-story Manhattan commercial building at 575 Broadway. Seven Firefighters were injured fighting the Soho blaze and removed to local hospitals. A number of firefighters were also treated for injuries at the scene. The damage caused to the building and its upscale business tenants was placed in the millions of dollars. More than 200 firefighters battled the fire as it traveled through concealed spaces from the basement to the 5th floor. The building was equipped with a sprinkler system but it was ineffective because the fire was behind walls and in voids where the water could not reach. The Soho area and its surrounding neighborhoods in Lower Manhattan have sustained massive cutbacks in fire protection over the years. It is very difficult to quickly assemble an adequate firefighting force should a serious fire break out in Lower Manhattan. Heavy traffic conditions make this life-threatening situation even more critical. Lives are at stake! Twelve (12) Engine Companies have been closed south of th 14 Street to the Battery since the end of World War II. They are
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as follows: Engine 17 25 Pitt Street Closed in 1991 Engine 27 173 Franklin Street Closed in 1975 Engine 13 155 Mercer Street Closed in 1974 Engine 31 87 Lafayette Street Closed in 1972 Engine 32 49 Beekman Street Closed in 1972 Engine 30 278 Spring Street Closed in 1959 Engine 12 261 William Street Closed in 1959 Engine 72 22 East 12th Street Closed in 1958 Engine 11 437 E. Houston Street Closed in 1957 Engine 20 243 Lafayette Street Closed in 1946 Engine 29 160 Chambers Street Closed in 1946 Engine 25 342 East 5th Street Closed in 1946 The closing of a fire company has a negative impact on a neighborhood. It should also be pointed out that in addition to the 5th alarm fire on January 21, there were three additional major fires south of 14th Street during the month of January. They are listed below: January 3, 2006 34 Downing Street 5-story apartment house January 9, 2006 22 King Street 6-story apartment house January 16, 2006 412 Broadway 5-story commercial bldg. In addition, on January 22, 2006 there was a major collapse of a synagogue at 87 Rivington Street. This drove scores of adults and children from their homes. Lower Manhattan is a neighborhood of New York City that needs more fire protection, not less. The need is urgent!
What’s New In Personal Protective Equipment By WILLIAM ROMAKA Sergeant-at-Arms Health & Safety Officer
T
he 2006 edition of the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) Standard 1971 has recently been promulgated. This Standard is significant in many aspects as it relates to our structural firefighting protective ensembles. The most noticeable change to structural and proximity firefighting garments affecting our membership will be the
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addition of a Drag Rescue Device (DRD). This feature is an integral system of webbing rope, or other material into the firefighting coat to permit the rescue of an incapacitated firefighter. The DRD must be designed in such a way that a portion of the device is accessible from the coat interior and can be easily grabbed by other firefighters without interference by the SCBA. The DRD must permit a firefighter to be dragged over a specified distance without breaking. The materials used in the construction are subject to certain break-
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ing strength requirements. The DRD is not permitted to be used in any vertical operations, such as lowering a firefighter from a building. This new technology will be explained in further detail by Total Fire Group / Morning Pride at the 2006 Annual Delegate Education Seminar. The reps will be able to provide a more comprehensive overview on the changes. With these new additions and standards, it is believed that all new coats delivered to the Quartermaster after August 2006 will be inclusive of a Drag Rescue Device.
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MARCH/APRIL 2006
Fire Lines
UFA Teams Up To Fight Muscular Dystrophy By STEPHEN HUMENESKY Queens Trustee he first ever UFA/UFOA MDA Week recently took place, and if the preliminary numbers are any indication, it was a huge success. Firehouses from across the city participated in this special effort to raise money and help support the programs of the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA). The week of January 29 – February 4, 2006 was designated MDA Week by the UFA and UFOA. During this time, each member was asked to donate $1 at each firehouse meal. At the January membership meeting, every company delegate was given an informational package and instructed to send the collection directly to the MDA once the week had concluded. “It is extremely important to help raise awareness and funds for a cause such as the treatment of Muscular Dystrophy, and an organization like the MDA,” said UFA President Steve Cassidy. “I hope we can make this week-long event a yearly occurrence in order to assist the MDA in their ongoing efforts for treatment and care.” Even though the program was “$1 Per Member, Per Meal,” many companies contributed well over the suggested per-member donation. “We knew we were hitting a goldmine with the hearts of these firefighters when we began receiving checks from them prior to the beginning of the actual event. It’s unheard of,” said Amy Sasso, Program Coordinator for the MDA. “We can’t drive home enough how grateful we
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are for what you accomplished. The program has delivered more than we ever expected.” The money collected will benefit a number of MDA programs. The funds, in addition to providing research and equipment, will help pay for the annual summer camp program in Spring Valley, NY which is run by the MDA. The camp is held on the grounds of Camp Vision, a handicapped-accessible space for children. Here, the children who are battling Muscular Dystrophy get the opportunity to take part in a real summer camp experience, complete with a talent show and an Olympic-size pool. The idea for the fundraising event was hatched at a meeting hosted by the MDA in May of 2005. The “MDA Boot Camp,” as it was called, was a forum for the firefighter locals in New York State to speak about their efforts towards fundraising for the MDA. I joined Jim McGowan of the UFOA to observe the meeting and explore fundraising possibilities for New York City Firefighters. Most locals participate in “Fill the Boot” drives, but the logistics of New York City would not allow such a program to take place. The UFA and UFOA came up with the idea of each member donating $1 per meal, and with that, the MDA had a new partner in the Firefighters of New York City. As of press time, the funds collected totaled more than $30,000. However, the MDA was still receiving and tallying money from the week’s event.
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SAVE THE DATE!! FDNY / NYPD Hockey Game The Annual FDNY / NYPD Hockey Game at Nassau Coliseum has been rescheduled for April 8th. The event will begin promptly at 1 PM. Doors open at 1230 PM. For more info or to purchase tickets, please visit www.FDNYHOCKEY.com Palm Sunday Mass at the Brooklyn Wall of Remembrance Sunday, April 9, 2006 at 1:30 p.m. The Wall of Remembrance is located at Keyspan Park, 1904 Surf Avenue, Coney Island, Brooklyn. The event will be held, rain or shine. In case of inclement weather, the location will be Our Lady of Solace Shrine R.C. Church, West 17th Street and Mermaid Avenue. Celebrating Mass will be Chaplains from the FDNY, NYPD and PAPD. FDNY Boxing Smoker Friday April 21st at 8 PM the FDNY Boxing Bravest will host a smoker at Christ the King High School, 69-02 Metropolitan Avenue, Middle Village, NY. The event will feature 12 exciting bouts. Tickets are $20 for General Admission. Half of all proceeds will be donated to the Wounded Warrior Project, supporting our men and women of the Armed Forces who have been seriously injured in combat. For more info log on to www.FDNYBOXING.com FDNY Night at Keyspan Park The 6th annual FDNY Night at Keyspan Park is slated to take place on Friday August 4th at 7 PM as the Brooklyn Cyclones take on the TriCity Valley Cats. The yearly event proves to be a great time for the families and friends of our members. The Cyclones have agreed to provide Fire Department members with as many tickets as we need. However, in order to accurately provide a count for them, ticket orders need to be placed in advance. Companies should contact Fire Marshal Bob Cashman at 718-999-0740 ASAP with their orders to ensure ticket availability. Tunnel to Towers Run – Volunteers Needed The Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Run will take place Sunday September 24, 2006. Active and Retired firefighters are needed to carry picture banners and American flags in memory of the 343 members of the FDNY who gave their lives on 9/11/01. Firefighters are requested to attend in Class “A” uniform or retiree jacket. If interested, or to request more information please contact: Terri Magnuski 718-987-1931 TMAGWIZ@aol.com
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Fire Lines
Let the Games Begin…in 2011 By EDWARD BROWN UFA Sports Chairman n January 17th the UFA Executive Board joined active and retired firefighters, the leadership of the New York Police Department and Port Authority Unions, as well as a number of elected and politically appointed officials at a fundraiser for the 2011 World Police and Fire Games which will be held in New York City. The “2011 World Police and Fire Games First Responder Memorial Dinner” was held at the New York Marriott Marquis and proved to be an overwhelming success. The event celebrated the selection of New York City as the host city for the 2011 World Police and Fire Games. The games are a way for the Police and Firefighters of this City to remember the 10year anniversary of 9/11 as well as give us the opportunity to say thank you to all who came to our aid during that tragic time. These worldwide spectator games are second only to the Summer Olympics in size and host a wide array of sporting events. Teams of Law Enforcement, Emergency Medical Personnel and Firefighters, comprising almost 20,000 athletes from 70 different countries will descend on New York in the summer of 2011 to compete against one another over a 10-day period. UFA President Steve Cassidy addressed the audience at the fundraiser. “We are here tonight to show our support for the 2011 World Police and Fire Games in New York City. On the 10-year anniversary of 9-11 we will play host to those who showed their support for us in our toughest time. These games will symbolize the bond between all first responders throughout the world as well as highlight the competitive nature of firefighters and police officers. It will truly be a great event,” said Cassidy. While the games may seem like a long way off, the planning and work that goes into such a large scale event is tremendous. Retired Firefighter Jim Carney of Engine Company 69 is a founder of 2011 World Police and Fire Games Inc., a registered non-profit given the task of organizing and raising funds for the games. “One thing I’ve learned in my years of
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coordinating these types of events is the preparation stage is the most important,” said Carney. “We need to put the right people in charge of the different areas, the right decisions need to be made ahead of time and the right attitude is necessary to implement these plans.” The World Police and Fire Games were first held in 1985 in San Jose, California. They were created by the California Police Athletics Foundation as a way for law enforcement officers, customs agents, firefighters and emergency medical personnel from across the globe to compete against one another in a wide array of sporting events. The games have been held bi-annually each year since 1985 and have taken place in a number of cities throughout the world, including Stockholm, Barcelona, and Quebec City. The 2007 Games will take place in Adelaide, Australia. They return to North America in 2009, where they will be held in British Columbia, before heading in New York in 2011. For more info on the 2011 games, please visit www.2011wpfg.org
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MARCH/APRIL 2006
Reminder from the Security Benefit Fund (SBF) In order to receive SBF benefits, parents of children attending college need to provide the SBF with the following: A letter each semester from the registrar on school letterhead listing the student’s name and acknowledging he/she is taking 12 or more credits. A copy of a paid tuition bill from the college for each semester These items are necessary for the SBF to provide the proper benefits to the children of firefighters. All info should be mailed to: Security Benefit Fund 201 East 23rd Street – 3rd Floor New York, NY 10001 Or Fax to 212-683-0693
MARCH/APRIL 2006 WHY IT’S IMPORTANT TO YOU
Fire Lines AND YOUR
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FAMILY
2006 Delegate Education Seminar By JOSEPH MICCIO Recording Secretary Delegate Education Seminar Director hat’s in it for you? Though only Delegates attend, each member should take the opportunity to give your Delegate a list of questions you may need answered on many of the topics that the seminar covers. The 2006 seminar runs from May 2-5. The annual Delegate Education Seminar is one of the most important educational endeavors for Company Delegates or their alternates, which is why the UFA Constitution mandates they attend. Presentations are designed by various Board Members and experts based on many of the most frequent—and important—questions that Delegates and the UFA Executive Board receive regularly each year. The purpose is to improve your Company Delegate’s working knowledge and back-
ground on many of the issues that you need answers to. Each day, the seminar agenda consists of morning general sessions for all Delegates and 10 afternoon elective workshops, some of which run concurrently and often repeat. Delegates choose the workshops they believe will strengthen their knowledge where needed and those that will be of most help to their members. Some previous issues covered include… State of the Union & Critical Union Issues, UFA PR & Media Program, Finding info in the Delegate Manual: UFA Legislative Issues and Agenda, FirePAC, Political Action by Delegates and the
UFA, FDNY Fire Alarm Dispatching Issues & Radio Questions, WTC Medical Monitoring, FDNY Pension System, FDNY Safety Command, Your Protective Gear Issues, Your Annuity & Compensation Accrual Fund , Health Benefits, UFA Security Benefits Fund Issues, UFA Scholarship Fund, ITHP Waiver, 50% Indicator, Roth IRAs & NYS College Savings Program, NYC Deferred Compensation 457 & 401K Plans, UFA Website, Disability Pensions, The Delegate’s Role in UFA Business, Filing a Grievance—the Process Explained, Delegate Attacks on Bad Dept Policy, Delegates & Investigations of Firehouse Incidents, Firehouse Health & Safety Solutions. Info booths are also set up by financial planners, mortgage companies, the major city health care providers, various types of insurance carriers, custom fire gift makers and more.
UFA Teams up for Fire Safety
show this video to all our students throughout the school year.” Mr. Hayes has also committed to working with the UFA and Dr. Field to distribute videos to the 50 catholic schools in Manhattan. Dr. Field came to the UFA offices in February and expressed his concern that not enough was being done by the City in the area of fire prevention. He screened the video for members of the UFA Executive Board and upon its completion, an agreement was struck. Dr. Field has a long history of educating the public on fire safety. As a journalist, he produced a number of stories dealing with fire prevention. He formerly sat on the Board of the FDNY Fire Safety
Education Fund, but quit after he realized they were more concerned with fundraising than fire prevention. He is convinced that the partnership with the UFA is the right way to get things accomplished. “I sat on the Board with the notion that we were going to help eliminate fire deaths and curb the number of fire-related injuries,” said Field. “But what I realized was that this organization was more interested in fundraising than public outreach. I’m glad the UFA has stepped up to partner with me in this endeavor.” In the coming months the UFA plans to distribute the video throughout the City as a tool for schools to teach their students about fire safety.
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(Continued from page 3) Dr. Field explained, “Fire Safety Education for most Americans has been limited to the occasional fire drill in grade school and practicing stop, drop and roll. Sadly, many parents have not been taught fire safety lessons and are unable to pass along to their children the right and wrong practices in case of a real fire. That is why this project is so important.” “To be the first school selected to benefit from this program is an honor and we will work hard to educate all our students and teachers on this important issue,” said Epiphany School Principal James L. Hayes. “Fire safety doesn’t stop at the fire drill. We will make it a priority to
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PRESORTED STD. U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT # 14 HUNTINGTON, NY
OF GREATER NEW YORK 204 EAST 23rd STREET, NEW YORK, N.Y. 10010-9998 Tel (212) 683-4832 • Fax (212) 683-0710 www.ufanyc.org
STEPHEN J. CASSIDY President ENG. 236 JAMES SLEVIN Vice President
LAD. 7
JOSEPH MICCIO Recording Secretary
ENG. 295
ROBERT STRAUB Treasurer
ENG. 45
WILLIAM ROMAKA Health & Safety Officer Sergeant-at-Arms
ENG. 238
LESTER LAYNE Fire Marshal Representative
STEPHEN J. CASSIDY Editor-In-Chief
BFI
DONALD RULAND Trustee-Staten Island
ENG. 157
JOHN KELLY Trustee-Brooklyn ENG. 201 Chairman, Board of Trustees STEPHEN HUMENESKY Trustee-Queens
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DANIEL MURPHY Trustee-Manhattan
ENG. 74
EDWARD BROWN Trustee-Bronx
LAD. 48
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