FD RANT NEWS Long Island, New York Volume 2, Edition 3 March – 2013
SAG HARBOR Battles Inferno and Collapse
Photo by Jeff Cully – EEFAS Sag Harbor Engine 7-1-3 arrives on scene of a well advanced fire in Noyac. Full story on page 14
NORTH BABYLON Commercial Job with Fatality – Pages 1ϵ & ϮϬ SELDEN FF’s Home Destroyed by Blaze– Page 4ϰ PORT WASHINGTON 5TH Alarm – Pages 5ϲ & 5ϳ WANTAGH House Fire Caps Busy Month – Page 5ϴ PLAINVIEW Jobs 2013 in 2 Weeks – Page 7ϴ Long Island FD Rant News – Volume 2 Edition 3–2 March, St. Patrick’s Day Parade Coverage Across the Island – Pages 8ϴ - 9ϱ
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FD Rant News Long Island, New York The #1 digital publication for the Long Island Fire Service covering the NEWS you want to hear about.
Well, March certainly came in like a lion this year. It seems the beginning of this month was a continuation of the busy month of February. The month hit its peak on March 14th when there were 11 working fires in Nassau and Suffolk; including a 5th alarm commercial fire in Port Washington to go along with numerous other private dwelling fires. This edition has unseated last month’s edition as our largest to date. One of the fires that occurred this past month involved a member of the Selden Fire Department. After a vehicle operated by an impaired driver struck his home, the house was consumed by a fast moving fire. The result was the loss of all his family’s belongings. Luckily, his family was uninjured and safe. Members of the Long Island Fire Service stepped up and have donated all kinds of items, as well as money, to the Cosgrove family since this tragedy occurred. All of us here at FD Rant News are wishing the Cosgrove family well during your recovery. Just know that we have got your backs!!! As we publish this edition, we are proud to announce that the FD Rant News has hit a new milestone. We have just eclipsed the 4000 mark in subscribers on Friday March 29th. There is no doubt that word is travelling throughout the fire service community about our publication and our committment to the members of the Long Island Fire Service to bring the best, and most comprehensive coverage to our readers each month. We are thankful to all of you for your support. On the lighter side of things, there were plenty of St Patrick’s Day parades across Long Island this month. We were fortunate enough to have been in attendance at several in Nassau and Suffolk as everyone celebrated being “Irish” with various festivities. There were also several fund raising events that coincided with St Paddy’s Day events as well. In the spirit of giving, once again, the volunteer fire service showed its true colors by helping to raise thousands of dollars for worthy causes such as the St. Baldrick’s Foundation and Relay for Life. We have extensive coverage of several of the parades and events that took place this past month. All of us here also would like to wish all of our friends and families a slightly belated Happy Easter and Happy Passover as well. As we continue to grow and expand our coverage throughout Long Island I am happy to announce yet another new correspondent has joined our team. We welcome Mark Bellew, owner of All Hands Fire Photos as he brings us coverage from the northeast portion of Nassau, northwest portion of Suffolk and, yes, even as far away as Peeksill, N.Y. and also Andrew Tetreault in the Port Jefferson area.On the production side , we welcome aboard Dave Cook as our new Copy Editor and also Ashley Wilkas one of our new Digtal Sales Representatives. In response to a recent wave of calls involving suicides by chemical poisoning, we have not one, but two articles this month on the hazards faced by first responders as they attempt to treat victims of these terrible occurences. The articles focus on training, education and also operations on scene of these incidents. We would like to thank Tim Ivers and Jeff O’Toole for their fine articles on the subject and we are confident that our readers will learn much from reading them. All of us here at FD Rant News are committed to helping educate and inform the fire service community. We will continue to do so in our upcoming editions. If you have an idea or a suggestion for an article please CONTACT US. Finally, this year marks a very special occasion here on Long Island as one of the pioneers in our business celebrates a milestone. All of us here would like to congratulate Fire News on their 40th Anniversary. It is not often that I would offer this kind of message to one of our competitors but their accomplishment is worthy of praise. They were pioneers in the field of emergency scene coverage here on Long Island. Their longevity is the product of hard work by many people throughout the years. It is worthy of praise and all of us here at the FD Rant News would like to tip our cap to them. We would also like to remind all of our readers that if you would like to join our team as a regular correspondent you can contact us as FDRantNews@verizon.net or call us at 631.766.3287 for more information.
Jeff DiLavore – Owner/Publisher Long Island FD Rant News – Volume 2 Edition 3– March, 2013
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FD Rant News – March, 2013 Volume 2 - Edition 3
2 – Editorial 4 – Faces of the Fire Service 11 –Legislation Editorial
Cover Photo by Jeff Cully – East End Fine Arts Services
by Owen Magee
2ϲ – Common Sense by Mike Capoziello
Owner/Editor/Publisher Jeff DiLavore
3ϭ – The Radio Room by Phil Lichtenberger
ϰϬ – Smart Ash by Duane Welliver
Associate Editor
53 – Tricks of the Trade
Brian Welliver
by Joe Laino
Graphic Editor
63 – Chemical Suicide
Holly Luscher
by Tim Ivers
66 – HazMat Suicide
Copy Editor
by Jeff O’Toole
72 – Apparatus of the Fire Service 100 – About the Authors 101 – Sponsor Page
Dave Cook
Digital Sales Representative Ashley Wilk
Social Media Director Bernadette Franc
Contributing Authors Phil Lichtenberger Jim McNamara Robert Senn Joe Laino Mike Capoziello Pete Silver Duane Welliver Tim Ivers Jeff O’Toole
Long Island FD Rant News
Submit Stories and/or Photos to:
Northport, N.Y. 11768 Phone: 631.766.3287 Email: FDRantNews@verizon.net
FDRantNews@verizon.net Be sure to send contact information including name, phone number and email
Long Island FD Rant News – Volume 2 Edition 3– March, 2013
Correspondents Mark Bellew Ken Bradbury Chris Colletti Lauren Cronemeyer Eric Devine Eric Dobrini Lauren Foschino Robert Garofalo Paul Krussmann Tom Lambui Kevin Madigan Ralph Moniello Brian Olsen Chris Sabella Ron Schankin Joe Sperber Nick Stein Tom Steinwall Andrew Tetreault Matt Thomas Kim Versheck Pat Welliver
We are now the #1 digital publication for the Long Island Fire Service with over 4000 subscribers. Thank you all for your continued support.
FD Rant News-Your #1 source for news about the Long Island Fire Service.
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FACES OF THE FIRE SERVICE Chief Joe Ervin[2-10-30] briefs crew at a recent gasleak in East Northport
Photo by Jeff DiLavore – FD Rant News Members of South Country Ambulance at a fire in Bellport
Photo by Robert Garofalo th
Members of the SCPD 7 Pct at a fire in Manorville
Photo by Robert Garofalo
Long Island FD Rant News – Volume 2 Edition 3– March, 2013
Members of Holtsville grab “The Tool” at a recent MVA
Photo by Robert Garofalo Commack Chief Paccione [2-11-30], Smithtown Asst. Chief Murphy [4-232], Smithtown Safety Officer Tony Cruz, Kings Park Chief Mark O’Brien [4-1-30] and Bob DeMostous [FC 4-0-3] at a recent fire in Kings Park.
Photo by Jim LoDuca – KPFD photo Unit Members of Central Islip’s RIT at a fire in Brentwood
Photo by Jeff DiLavore – FD Rant News
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FACES OF THE FIRE SERVICE Haley and Monty from Massapequa Engine Co.1 at a recent fire
Photo by Lauren Cronemeyer
Members of the Deer Park FD at a recent motor home fire
Photo by Brian Welliver – FD Rant News
Crew operates on scene in Plainview at a working fire
Members of Bayville Fire Company at a recent gas leak
Photo by Mark Bellew
Members from multiple departments gather for the ‘Mini Indy’
Photo by Mark Bellew
Center Moriches member on scene of a recent MVA
Photo by Chris Sabella Photo by Chris Sabella
Long Island FD Rant News – Volume 2 Edition 3– March, 2013
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LINDENHURST Makes Quick Stop on House Fire Story and Photos by Chris Colletti – Light Night Buff Network Around 3:45pm on February 27th the Lindenhurst FD was activated by Babylon Central Fire Alarm for a reported house on fire at 800 South Pecan St. Chief of Department Jim Gallagher (1-6-30) and 2nd Assistant Chief Mike DeGregorio (1-6-32) arrived on the scene and had an electrical fire in a vacant 1 story private dwelling with extension into the attic. A re-tone for a working fire was transmitted and the command post was established. The “Bay Rats”from Engine 1-6-6 were first due into the scene and stretched a 1-3/4'' handline upon their arrival while Engine 1-6-2 layed in a 5'' supply line. Engine 1-6-3 secured the hydrant a short distance away on 2nd Ave. Truck company firefighters laddered the dwelling and also conducted primary and secondary searches which were negative. The fire was knocked down within a few minutes and overhaul was underway.Mutual aid was requested from Copiague for a RIT but they were given a disregard while en-route to the alarm.LIPA and Keyspan also were requested to the scene to cut the power and gas line service to the home.The Lindenhurst Village Fire Marshal and Town of Babylon Fire Marshal's Office were requested for a pending investigation. Click Here for More Photos of Lindenhurst’s House Fire
HOLTSVILLE Wreck Story and Photos by Robert Garofalo The Holtsville FD responded to this single vehicle accident Thursday February 28th at approximately 1930hrs. The accident happened on the exit ramp from northbound CR97 at Portion Road. The Chevy pickup left the road riding up the guardrail. Under the command of Chief of Department Joe Castiglione [5-11-30], members from EMS 16 tended to the injured motorist while members from Rescue 4 and Engine 3 assisted. The driver was transported to Stony Brook University Medical Center with non-life threatening injuries. Fire Police Unit 9 was also on scene assisting the SCPD with the ramp closure. Click Here for More Photo’s ofHoltsville’s MVA
Long Island FD Rant News – Volume 2 Edition 3– March, 2013
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Hard Hit Delivered in RONKONKOMA Story and Photos by Robert Garofalo
The Ronkonkoma FD responded to this MVA on Thursday February 28th at approximately 1345hrs. The collision was between an Acura MDX and an oil delivery truck at the intersection of Holbrook Road and Express Drive North. Under the command of Chief of Department John Scotto [5-24-30], members from Rescue 8 secured the vehicles while also assisting EMS members with the injured female driver of the Acura. The injured motorist was transported in Ambulance 16 to Stony Brook University Medical Center with non-life threatening injuries. Click Here for More Photos of Ronkonkoma’s MVA
FARMINGVILLE Five Injured in Crash Story and Photo by Chris Sabella
On Friday night March 1, 2013 the Farmingville Fire Department responded to an motor vehicle accident on northbound County Road 83 and encountered a 5 car pile up with injuries. Chief Ralph Gloria [5-18-30] was the in charge of the scene. EMS crews evaluated and transported to patients to a nearby hospital while other crews handled cleanup of fluids that were in the roadway. All units were up within 30 minutes.
Long Island FD Rant News – Volume 2 Edition 3– March, 2013
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COMMACK Big Hit with One Pinned Story and Photos by Jeff DiLavore – FD Rant News On Friday night March 1st at approximately 2150 hours the Commack Fire Department and Commack VAC were alerted to a motor vehicle accident on Jericho Turnpike in the vicinity of Kings Park Road. First units on scene advised that the two car accident was just east of Kings Park Road in front of the Northgate Shopping Center. It was quickly determined that the driver of one of the vehicles was trapped.Chief Pete Paccione [2-11-30] and Assistant Chief Paul Carnevale [2-11-33] were on scene to direct the operation. Heavy Rescue 2-11-9 arrived and the crew quickly put the tools to work, along side Suffolk PD ESU, to free the driver. Both driver’s side doors and the roof were taken in order to access the patient who was treated by members of CVAC and transported to a local hospital in Ambulance 2-16-17. The driver of the second vehicle, which had come to a stop approximately 200 feet away from the collision in the parking lot, was also treated and transported with minor injuries. All units were up within 40 minutes.
Met With Flames in MEDFORD Story and Photos by Chris Sabella - On Scene Photography Firefighters from Medford ended a busy month with another working fire on February 28, 2013onHagermanAvenue off Knickerbocker. As engine crews arrived on scene they were meet with flames and heavy smoke in the rear of the private dwelling. Firefighters used several hand lines and a tower ladder to extinguish the blaze in short order. SCPDArson Squad and Brookhaven fire Marshals were called to the scene for further investigation. Click Here for More Photos of Medford’s House Fire
Long Island FD Rant News – Volume 2 Edition 3– March, 2013
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EAST NORTHPORT Gas Leak Story and Photo by Jeff DiLavore – FD Rant News Additional Photos by Paul Krussmann – LNBN The East Northport Fire Department received a report of a natural gas leak at the Larkfield Manor catering hall located at 507 Larkfield Road on March 1, 2013. Workers in the building apparently struck a gas line with a piece of machinery. The building was immediately evacuated as units responded. Chief of Department Joe Ervin [2-10-30] arrived on scene followed by Assistant Chief Dan Heffernan [2-10-32] and began to direct the operation. Engine 2-10-4 was first due and secured a hydrant on the west side of Larkfield Road across from the building. Crews made entry into the building to evaluate the situaion and to test for gas levels. National Grid was requested for a forthwith response and was on scene in just under 15 minutes. Chief Ervin requested Commack for mutual aid which brought Engine 2-11-11 to the scene. Northport was requested for a standby with an engine and Centerport with an ambulance. The Greenlawn FD handled a Signal 16 for East Northport during the alarm as well. Surounding buildings on Larkfield Road were evacuated for precautionary measures. East Northport responded with 3 Engines, 2 Ambulances and Fire Police. Fire Coordinator Pete Gunther [2-0-4] was on scene assisting with the operation as well and the Huntington Town Fire Marshal was notified. Units were on scene for approximately 3 hours until National Grid had the main shut down. Click Here for More Photos of East Northport’s Gas Leak
CENTER MORICHES MVA
Story and Photos by Chris Sabella - On Scene Photography On March 3rd at approximately 7:15 pm, the Center Moriches Fire Department responded to a reported head on collision on Moriches Middle Island Road at Jerusalem Hollow Road in Center Moriches. Firefighters were able to free the driver and treat a second driver for their injuries and transport them to Brookhaven memorial hospital in Patchogue.
Long Island FD Rant News – Volume 2 Edition 3– March, 2013
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REPORT ON EFFORTS TO ESTABLISH RESIDENTIAL TRUSS NOTIFICATION TO AID FIRE DEPARTMENTS IN NEW YORK STATE By Owen Magee Photos by Pete Garypie
A tragic residential fire in Carmel, N.Y. took the lives of four occupants on May 1, 2012.The home was built using Light Weight Wood Truss construction materials dressed in vinyl siding. The fire was reported to have started outside near the front porch from a discarded cigarette. The blaze swept up the side of the home and into the attic. A few minutes more, the death toll could have been much worse, as firefighters would have made entry for search and rescue operations. The entire structure collapsed into itself killing all but one occupant in minutes.We had a close call on Long Island in Hampton Bays a few years ago, when three firefighters were injured when they fell through the floor and, most recently, the Sag Harbor Fire Department had a residential fire with multiple collapses involving lightweight construction. These events, in my opinion, drive home the point that a notification system is urgently needed to warn arriving firefighters of the type of construction they are dealing with [in residential buildings]. We all know fires involving lightweight wood construction require special consideration as to how we operate. In many cases, sudden collapse without warning can occur. The death toll and injuries to firefighters as a result of the sudden failure of this type construction is over 100 in the last several years alone. Included in this number are two firefighters in upstate New York who died in 2002 as a result of a sudden collapse involving this type of construction. In all the cases, had the firefighters known what they were dealing with, the outcome would have been much different and precautions would have been taken. The big problem with this type construction is once the structure is covered they look just like a structure that was built with the standard stick construction. This is where pre plan information is vital.
Residential Home built WITHOUT lightweight wood truss.
Residential Home built WITH lightweight wood truss.
These two homes are common to numerous neighborhoods across Long Island. Without the captions, would YOU be able to tell which was built using lightweight manufactured lumber and which was one was not? Be honest with yourself. Pre-plan all of the buildings in your district. That process starts when they are being built.
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I have been involved in pre-fire planning since the mid 1950's. I have been employed full and part time as a pre-planner for 20 years. That said, I wish to bring to your attention the efforts of myself and two former Fire Commissioners and Legislative Committee members Mike Krummenacker and William Foley. We started four years ago. Every time I picked up a firematic publication, there was a LODD report of a firefighter who died as a result of a sudden collapse, either on the roof or inside on the floor. This was going on for years and I was amazed that nothing was being done to correct the problem. We have had a commercial building placard system since 2004; but nothing for residential. If you examine the history of that legislation and the comments made by the fire service, they apply to this legislation as well. After much work the placard system became law. I made up a dozen binders with case histories of selected LODD reports, basic information about lightweightwoodtruss construction including the glued wooden I-beams, so a person would have an idea of what our problem was. We are unable to pick out these type structures. I gave the binders out to some of my area State Government-elected officials, NYSAFC,FASNY, and Nassau CountyAssociation of Fire Chiefs and the Long Island Fire District’s legislative committee. I had a chance meeting with Assemblywoman Michelle Schimel (16th District – Great Neck) at a political function. I mentioned this project we started. She took up our cause and ran with it. Within several months we had an Assembly Bill and a Senate Bill, but efforts got bogged down with then-Governor Patterson, and his battle to pass a budget. No legislation was passed at all. So we started all over again the following years. After meetings in Albany with key people, Office of Fire Prevention & Control, the State Fire Administrator at that time, consults with the Wood Truss Council of America (WTCA) [even they had no objections], various architects and the New York State Fire Districts Association. We had wanted the Building Departments to be involved but they refused citing liability issues. A new bill, A04857,was created with provisions that mandated (builder & home owner) notification of the fire chief, of the area having jurisdiction of the property, of the presence of a residential structure using lightweight construction. I ran all this by FDNY Deputy Chief Vincent Dunn and FDNY Lieutenant Joe Berry, (a response to his article in Firehouse gave me this idea) both frequent speakers on the dangers of lightweight wood truss and got their approval. But then at this critical time, the State Chiefs and Firemen’s Association of New York said they could not support it as it put too much responsibility on the Fire Chief. Really! When first approached with this, I had their support, then all of a sudden it was gone. I served as a chief officer for eight years.If he or she can't act on a notification that is critical to the safety of his or her members then what are they doing in that position? All one has to do is read the OSHA requirements to see there is liability connected with the position of Fire Chief. There is no escaping that fact. As a result of this, the process got bogged down again, this time by Firefighters! I have not been able to get this report out to our firefighters. How do you get important information out to firefighters? The N.Y.S. Association of Fire Chiefs [NYSAFC] and Firemen’s Associationof the State of New York [FASNY] have NEVER mentioned anything about this effort because both groups oppose it. Last year, NYSASFC Director Chief Donald J. Corkery, to his credit, took charge to try and get this effort back on track. A committee has been formed with FASNY, NYSAFC, and Code people but there has not been too much progress. The NYSAFC, purport, they represent the states fire chiefs, but do they? The organization is a for profit operation that charges for almost everything. The many Fire Chiefs I have spoken to don't believe the organization speaks for them officially. The legislators are
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led to believe, by their organizational title, that they represent us. Their lobbyist roams the halls in Albany telling them his opinion. Meanwhile, they have never made public the ongoing efforts for this legislation and their opposition. I wonder why? My personal opinion and that of my associates and Assembly woman Schimel is they are making it too complicated. THE FIRE CHIEF is the KEY person to get this information to the membership. There is escaping that fact. A placard system is out. No builder or real estate company wants a warning sign on a residence. It has to be a notification type system. The longer we wait there is always the chance of another Carmel-type incident. How do you explain that to the members family's who lost their loved one?Every month we delay notification many more of these homes are being built that we don't know about.Assembly woman Schimel has once again come through and we have Assembly Bill # A1869 Link to view this Bill: http://open.nysenate.gov/legislation/bill/A18692013 We need a companion Senate bill, so it can move on through the system. This legislation can be fine tuned in the future if needed. I am asking all N.Y. State firefighters, please put this on the top of your agenda for 2013, please spread the word, the clock is ticking, before another tragedy takes the life of a firefighter. Contact your elected officials and request them to respond to our request, the same way we respond to the public’s request’s 24/7. Thank you for taking time to read this. Ex-Chief Owen W. Magee Hicksville Fire Department – Long Island, N.Y. 56 year active member and Pre-plan Fire Inspector EDITOR’S NOTE - The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed in this editorial do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the FD Rant News or any of FD Rant News staff or correspondents. FD Rant News is committed to bring our readers information about firefighter safety on every level so that everyone goes home safely from every alarm and we also urge all firefighters to educate themselves on the potential dangers of manufactured lumber and lightweight construction under a fire load. Contact your local State Representative and/or State Senator and let him or her know that this legislation is urgently needed in order to save lives. - JD On the next page is perfect example of lightweight construction failure under fire conditions that occurred in Sag Harbor [Long Island] earlier this month. The total time from time of alarm until the time of the first collapse was estimated at 1012 minutes. The photos used in this editorial were taken in the aftermath of the Sag Harbor fire as the home was being repaired.
Long Island FD Rant News – Volume 2 Edition 3– March, 2013
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SAG HARBOR Big House, Big Fire with Collapse Story by Jeff DiLavore – FD Rant News Aerial Photos Provided by Jeff Cully East End Fine Arts Services -www.EEFAS.com
On Tuesday March 5, 2013 at 1058 hours East Hampton Village Communications [9-1-0]dispatched the Sag Harbor Fire Department for a report of a house fire at 60 Fourteen Hills Court. Upon arrival of Chief Peter Garypie [7-1-30] there was heavy fire showing through the roof of the estimated 10,000 square foot home. He immediately confirmed a working structure fire and requested a reactivation for a RIT and multiple tankers to respond which brought Bridgehampton, East Hampton, Southampton [with 2 tankers], North Sea andSprings to bring needed water to the scene. This request was made due to the lack of hydrants in the area [the closest hydrants were over ½ mile away]. The operation then relied on the tankers and also use of three 10,000 gallon cisterns that were on the street. Assistant ChiefJohn Andersen [7-131]was also on scene to direct the operation. East Hampton sent an Engine and a RIT to the scene.First due Engine 7-1-3 quickly stretched multiple handlines to attack the well advanced fire. Within three minutes of the onset of an interior attack, conditions rapidly deteriorated and the Chief ordered his crews to back out. Shortly thereafter, the 2nd floor collapsed followed by the collapse of the roof as well. The cause of the blaze was determined to be a faulty flue
Long Island FD Rant News – Volume 2 Edition 3– March, 2013
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pipe in the chimney that allowed embers from a fire in the fireplace to ignite combustible material in the area of the 2nd floor around the chimney. It is believed the fire was burning for a considerable period of time before the homeowoners took notice. Cedar roof shingles also added to the rapid spead of the fire. In total, two 1 ¾” handlines and four 2 ½” handlines; along with a deck gun and a portable deck monitor were used to extinguish the blaze. Drafting operations from the swimming pool were considered by Chief Garypie during the operation but were not implemented due to difficult access to the area around the swimming pool and also a question of being able to safely place apparatus on the #4 side of the building. Even though the house was occupied at the time of the fire all occupants were able to evacuate the homewithout injury and no other injuries were reported to members during the operation. Multiple agencies were requested for ambulances to standby at the scene during he extended operaion. Sag Harbor VAC, Bridgehampton FD ambulance and East Hampton VAC were all on scene. Amagansett provided standby coverage with an engine during the alarm at Sag Harbor’s quarters. The Southampton Fire Marshal’s office responded as did Fire Coordinator Roy Wines [7-0-3].
Long Island FD Rant News – Volume 2 Edition 3– March, 2013
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Aditional Photos of SAG HARBOR’S House Fire
Editor’s Note: This home was constructed with manufactured lumber and also lightweight wood materials. The total time elapsed from time of alarm until collapse was estimated at 10-12 minutes. The decision to pull members out of harm’s way averted an unspeakable disaster. This is a perfect example of the dangers associated with this type of construction and highlights the need to be proactive in our approach to identify buildings in our fire districts that are constructed using these materials. The time to identify these hazards is not when you pull up to a fire like this; rather, it is during the construction phase. That is why there is a need to constantly tour your district and be aware, not only of WHAT is being built in your coverage area but HOW it is being built as well. This is the very reason why people like Owen Magee is pushing for legislation that mandates the proper warning signs to be placed on buildings built in this manner. [If you have not done so, please see his article on the rpeceding pages] Remember, the goal is for EVERYONE to go home. Special thanks to Chief Pete Garypie for his report on this fire and also for sharing the details of the collapse with us. Special thanks to Jeff Cully for his aerial coverage of this fire.
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JERICHO Loses Member in Line of Duty Information and photos from Jericho FD website Capt. George A. Turner Jr. 1952-2013 March 8, 2013
The Jericho Fire Department is deeply saddened to announce the untimely passing of Captain George A. Turner, Jr. of Trident Engine Co. No. 3. Captain Turner passed in the performance of his duty while after the department was alerted for a motor vehicle accident on the Long Island Expressway. Captain Turner had been a member of the Jericho Fire Department since 2005, and had previously served for as a member of the Locust Valley Fire Department, Glen Cove Fire Department, and Glenwood Fire Company. In December 2012, George was elected Captain of Trident Engine Co. No. 3. George was also a very active member of the department's Rehab Team, part of the 9th Battalion HazMatDecon Task Force. Captain Turner was the department's top responder for the past several years and will be sorely missed by all. Captain Turner's death marks the third line of duty death in the Jericho Fire Department's history. In 1984, Firefighter/Chaplain John Carlson passed when the apparatus he was responding on was involved in a motor vehicle accident. And in 2001, Firefighter Glenn Winuk was killed in the performance of his duty at the World Trade Center on September 11th. EDITOR’S NOTE - All of us here at the FD Rant News extend our condolences to the Tuner Family and to the members of the Jericho Fire Department for their loss. - JD
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BAY SHORE Responds to Car vs. Pole Story and Photo by Ken Bradbury – Deer Park Fire Photo On Saturday March 2, 2013, the Bay Shore Fire Department activated for an MVA Entrapment at East Third Ave between McClellan and Cambridge Avenues. 3-1-62 was the first arriving Officer and relayed that all victims where out of the vehicle but the telephone pole laid across the street. Bay Shore responded with 3-1-8, 3-1-2, and 3-1-10. 3-1-62 was OIC. Bay Shore-Brightwaters Ambulance was also on scene.
NORTH PATCHOGUE Assists S.C.P.D. Officer Injured in Wreck Story and Photos by Robert Garofalo The North Patchogue FD responded to the scene of this MVA Sunday March 3rd at approximately 1915hrs. The accident involved SCPD Highway Patrol Unit 904 while he was assisting in evidence recovery near the scene of a previous fatal MVA in the westbound lanes of Sunrise Highway near Waverly Avenue. The police cruiser was hit from behind by a Chrysler sedan trapping the officer. Before the North Patchogue FD arrived on scene multiple police units were on scene including Emergency Service Units 1, 5 and 6. Emergency Service officers had their hydraulic tools in operation removing the driver’s side doors and “B” post. Under the command of Chief Dan Doscher[5-17-31] assisted by Chief Tom Volpe [5-17-32] members from EMS Units 16 and 20 treated and packaged both injured motorists. The injured officer was taken by SCPD MedEvac to Stony Brook University Medical Center while the driver of the Chrysler was transported to Brookhaven Memorial Hospital. Also on scene assisting with the operation were Engines 2, 3 and 4 as well as Rescue 5. South Country Ambulance also responded into the scene on mutual aid. The cause of the accident is under investigation and the injuries sustained were considered non-life threatening. Click Here for More Photos of North Patchogue’s Police Car MVA Editor’s note – The driver of the vehicle that struck the police cruiser was arrested and charged with driving under the influence. All of us here wish the officer a speedy recovery.
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NORTH BABYLON Battles Fatal ‘Taxpayer’ Fire Story by Ken Bradbury Photos by Eric Devine and Ken Bradbury On Sunday the 3rd of March at approximately 1630 hours, the North Babylon Fire Company was activated for a Signal 13 Structure Fire. Chief Thomas Jordan [1-8-30] was the first arriving Chief on the scene and was greeted with a two story tax-payer building with fire showing from a 2nd floor window in the front of the building. Chief Jordan transmitted the “35” [working fire] and mutual aid was requested West Babylon, East Farmingdale, Wyandanch, Deer Park, and Babylon Village. An interior attack was started by the crew from Engine 1-8-4 but they where driven back by the intense heat from the well advanced fire. All units were ordered out of the building and an exterior attack was under way. One victim was transported for injuries received while escaping their apartment. After the blaze was knocked down further search revealed that a second victim (deceased) was located on the 2nd floor. Ambulances were also requested from Wyandanch Wheatley Heights AC and Bay Shore Brightwaters AC. West Islip was also called later in the alarm and Bay Shore also was on standby at North Babylon’s headquarters. All units were released not long after 2100 hours and SCPD Arson Squad was notified. Photo by Ken Bradbury
Photo by Eric Devine Photo by Ken Bradbury
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Additional Photos of North Babylon’s Fatal Fire
Photo by Eric Devine
Photo by Ken Bradbury
Photo by Ken Bradbury
Photo by Ken Bradbury
Photo by Ken Bradbury
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FD Rant News is a monthly 100% digital publication that delivers news and information about the fire service of Long Island to our subscribers and also uses multiple social media outlets [Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn] to promote our publication and our advertisers. We have over 24 correspondents covering emergency scenes and 10 authors who contribute educational articles each month. We have seen a 25% increase in subscribers in the last 6 months alone. Digital advertising has rapidly become the most effective way to reach consumers who choose to get their news and information online vs. in print media. Our format offers our readers speed and convenience in accessing your company’s products and services. With a single click, potential customers are linked directly to your company’s website. You choose the destination. We offer packages that include three banner ads strategically placed throughout our emergency scene coverage. In addition, we pool all of our advertisers on the last page of every edition for further convenience to our readers. So, you actually get four banner ads for the price of three. We also offer one-half and full page ads that allow you to bring more information to the readers about your company’s product line. CONTACT US today to find out about our advertising packages. Here are some of the highlights of our publication: • Currently we are serving over 4000 thousand of subscribers • We are rapidly becoming the number one source for news about the Long Island fire service. • Digital media and Internet marketing /advertising have rapidly replaced print advertising as the leading way to deliver your message to potential customers. Here are a few points to consider before you spend another advertising dollar for your company: • The cost to advertise with FD Rant News is up to 75% LESS than ads placed in similar print media publications. • Our advertising model is superior to newspaper ads since your potential customers are just a click away from your company’s website and contact information. • We are able to place multiple banner ads throughout our publication rather than in just one static location in print media. Each one is a direct link to your choice of websites or webpages. Multiple ads in a single edition help to “brand” your company and increases attention of the readers. • One-Half Page and Full Page ads get your message across to our audience while providing maximum exposure to your brand. • We offer graphic design services to assist you in creating the best possible banner ads for your company. FD Rant News offers many different subscription packages for all types of advertisers. Please CONTACT US today to discuss our pricing and availability of premium locations for our next issue.
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Monday Morning Fire for FREEPORT Story and Photos by Kevin Madigan – K2M Photography At 07:09 hours on the morning of March 4th the Freeport Fire Department was dispatched to a reported house fire at the intersection of Guy Lombardo and Atlantic Avenues. Second Assistant Chief Walsh [2102] was among the first units on the road and was advised by FireCom that multiple calls were being received reporting the fire. When the first units arrived on scene they were met with a fully involved two and a half story private dwelling with an involved auto in the driveway. On the number two side of the home was a deli while a taxpayer neighbored the number four side. Fire was heavy across the front porch and throughout the basement of the home. Freeport Engine 211 was the first engine to arrive on scene while Tiller 218 was the first truck company on scene. The first line stretched off of the engine was a two and a half inch due to the heavy fire load. This line was followed by an exposure line. In all four lines went into operation to fight the morning blaze. Baldwin responded to the scene as the FAST team with Ladder 207. Additional mutual aid was provided by Bellmore-Merrick EMS, Point Lookout-Lido, and Oceanside. Three occupants of the home were transported to area hospitals – two with smoke inhalation and one with burns. Three firefighters were treated on scene for various injuries but were not transported and were put down as RMAs. All fire department units were under the command of Freeport Chief of Department Baer [2100]. Editor’s Note: Our correspondent Kevin Madigan who would normally be covering the scene actually only had time to snap this one photo before he geared up and went to work with the rest of the Freeport Fire Department. Nice job Freeport and nice job Kevin. – JD
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NORTH MERRICK Gets Caught up on Cameron Avenue Story and photos by Kevin Madigan - K2M Photography Around 23:30 hours on the night of March 4th, the North Merrick Fire Department responded to a motor vehicle accident with overturn and possible pin. The location of the incident was given as Cameron Street between Jenkins and Clark Streets. Police officers already on the scene advised incoming fire units that they had a confirmed pin on the scene. North Merrick Heavy Rescue 678 responded to the scene and put the tools into operation to free the female driver of a Dodge Intrepid sedan. The driver, the only occupant, was extricated within a few minutes. She was then loaded onto a backboard and into an awaiting North Merrick Fire Department ambulance where she was transported to the County Medical Center. The vehicle she struck was a parked vehicle – causing extensive damage. NCPD ESU Unit 2421 also responded to the scene to assist. Once the aided was transported all fire departments units took up and the scene was left in the hands of Nassau County Police. Click Here for More Photos of North Merrick’s Overturn MVA
Single Vehicle Overturn in NORTH AMITYVILLE Story and Photos by Chris Colletti - LNBN On March 5, 2013 the North Amityville Fire Company and Suffolk County 1st Precinct Officers were activated for a reported overturned auto with the driver pinned in the parking lot of the day care center at 455 Albany Ave.SCPD Officers on scene advised the minivan struck a hydrant and was overturned between the side of the building and a fence. The female driver was in the process of self-extricating herself prior to the arrival of FD & EMS units. North Amityville Ambulance 1-7-8 transported the patient to Good Samaritan Hospital in West Islip with non-life threatninginjuries.Suffolk County Police ES-6 was on scene and handled the upright of the vehicle. Click Here for More Photos of North Amityville’s MVA
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HICKSVILLE Fast Work at Vehicle Fire Story and Photos by Eric Dobrini On the early morning of March 6, 2013 at around 0230 hrs, the Hicksville Fire Department responded to a call for a fully involved vehicle fire at the intersection of Newbridge Road and Milburn Street with possible extension to the structure. All stations were alerted for the possible extension to the structure. It was a quick knockdown for first due engine 932 with one hand line stretched. There was no extension to the surrounding cars or building.
HOLTSVILLE Puts Tool to Work Story and Photos by Robert Garofalo
The Holtsville FD responded to this MVA with Heavy Rescue Thursday March 7th at approximately 1300hrs. The two car collision happened at the intersection of Blue Point Road and Barretts Avenue leaving the elderly male passenger of the Toyota pinned. Under the command of Lieutenant Dave Schreiber [5-11-71], members from Rescue 4 immediately put the “Hurst Tool” into operation while EMS First Responder 81 tended to the injured passenger. Once extricated the patient was transported to Brookhaven Memorial Hospital by EMS Unit 17. Also on scene was Fire Police 9 handling traffic control. Click Here for More Photos of Holtsville’s MVA With Entrapment
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Multiple Calls for Levittown Job Story and Photos by Kevin Madigan - K2M Photography Additional Photos by Paul Krussmann - LNBN On the afternoon of March 6th, multiple calls were being received by dispatchers reporting a house fire on Carnation Road in Levittown. When the call was toned out the address given was 89 Carnation Road with Orchid Road and Ivy Lane as the cross streets. When Chief Behrens [6200] arrived on scene he immediately transmitted a signal ten [working fire]. Levittown Engine 622 was the first engine on scene and put at least two lines into operation. Levittown Ladder 626 was the first truck company on scene while Hicksville Ladder 931 responded to the scene as the FAST team. Wantagh and North Bellmore were among the towns providing standby for Levittown during operations. East Meadow Engine 613 responded to the scene as part of their auto mutual aid plan during the daytime. East Meadow Station 3, located at the end of Carnation Road, helps to cover within the vicinity of the firehouse. The fire, which was heavy on the number four side of the home, was brought under control within forty-five minutes. All fire department units were under of the command of Levittown Chief of Department Chris Behrens [6200]. Click Here for More Photos of Levittown’s House Fire
MEDFORD Responds to Wreck Story and Photos by Robert Garofalo
The Medford FD along with Medford Ambulance responded to the scene of this four car MVA early Sunday March 10th at approximately 0015hrs. The collision occurred on County Road 101 between East Woodside Avenue and Southaven Avenue. Under the command of Chief of Department William Hart [5-14-30], members from Rescue 15 and Engines 11 & 12 secured the scene and all vehicles. Members from Medford Ambulance treated, packaged and transported one injured motorist to Brookhaven Memorial Hospital in Ambulance 5-34-19. The SCPD placed one driver into custody for unknown charges. Also on scene assisting the SCPD with traffic control was Fire Police Unit 20. Click Here for More Photos of Medford’s MVA Long Island FD Rant News – Volume 2 Edition 3– March, 2013
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COMMON SENSE (AND OTHER STUFF) By Mike Capoziello
“SIZE UP Part 2: COAL WAS WEALTH” Ok last time we talked about the importance of an Incident Commander having some sort of “game plan” when running a scene. Maybe you’re a born fire ground strategist and all this stuff comes easy to you but I’m the first to admit I’m not, so I decided to use the classic acronym ‘COAL WAS WEALTH’ to keep my mind on course and help me along the way while standing on the front lawn. I would run through this list a few times during an incident as circumstances often changed and adjustments would be made throughout the duration of the alarm. This process never ends until the last unit takes up. Ok, so let’s use the ‘COAL WAS WEALTH‘model and run it through an actual alarm we had, and explain some of the thought process as it all went down. But first in true Dragnet fashion…”The story you are about to read is true. The names and locations have been changed to protect the innocent”. Tuesday Sept.6, 2011: “BEEEEBOOOP BOP-Station 51, Station 34, Engine 36, Truck 127 report of an unknown explosion vicinity of Pine Canyon Road and Mulholland Drive, time out 01:37”. “Chief 70 responding KMG 365”-using the COAL WAS WEALTH acronym, with that alert my first thoughts were an explosion 1 in the morning probably a transformer, maybe a car accident-maybe a car into a pole and transformer? C- Construction-it’s a residential area made up of wood frame structures; however there is a large 3 story elementary school in the area not far. Maybe the explosion came from the School, maybe not. O-Occupancy-01:37 in the morning the School would not be occupied, but the residential homes would all be full. Average family size 3 to 5?Occupants in a car 1 to 5? I will go with those numbers. A-Apparatus and Manpower-“unknown explosion” is one of those “everyone goes” calls, it was transmitted as a general alert so there will be a good response, it’s not far from 2 firehouses so I’m not worried about the response times and the manpower that’s coming. L-Life Hazard-as with the occupancy thought, depending on what caused this explosion, thinking the worst we are probably going to have a car or a house with 4-5 people. Game changing transmission: “Assistant 70 to County I’m on scene it’s a house- totally leveled-unknown if anyone is inside transmit the working fire”. “Chief 70 did you copy”? “10-4, give me 4 additional ambulances from wherever.” OK deep breath-game on. Occupancy and Life Hazard are now front and foremost in your thinking. Rescues may have to be made, manpower intensive if this is the case. Rethinking apparatus and manpower-going to need a lot of lines-with the working fire re alert the cavalry is coming, I’m sure about that, 4 engines on the way. As far as victims, my Department will get 2 ambulances on the road hopefully and the county I’m sure is sending 1 or 2. Requesting 4 additional ambulances should be enough for initial operations for civilians and firefighters. Long Island FD Rant News – Volume 2 Edition 3– March, 2013
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At this point I started from the top of the list again, Construction, well it’s going to be wood frame, wood frame all over the place if it’s like other house explosions I’ve witnessed. Literally a debris field of hazards. O, A, and L were reevaluated above, after Assistant 70’s transmission. W- Water supply-should be no problem unless a water main has been compromised in the explosion or a hydrant damaged or buried by debris. Might need a representative from the water department. A- Auxiliary appliances-did not apply to this alarm, no sprinkler or standpipes. S- Street conditions-big consideration here. Can the apparatus get in the proper position to be effective? The house service is probably going to be ripped away; what other downed wires may prevent certain moves and rescue efforts? Will there be a lot of incoming mutual aid fire units as well as the additional ambulances requested? If so start thinking about assigning a staging officer. Now I have added a few other “S” acronyms to help me along. “S” for Smoke. I’m looking for this while I’m approaching and when I’m on scene. The smoke conditions give clues about the fire, as well as help locate it within a structure many times, but in this case that thought process was not needed. This house was indeed leveled and the location and extent of the fire was very obvious. The other “S” is for Squad cars. Ahhh the Police God Bless them; they do an outstanding job for us, and we have a very good working relationship. But sometimes their car placements on the fire block or at the intersections present a problem for incoming apparatus to get on the block and into proper position. I always made it a point to see where they were and to move them early on if needed. At this alarm there was no major problem with their placement. Next time continuing on with WEALTHof the COAL WAS WEALTH size up.
Mike Capoziellois a 28 year member of Hook and Ladder Company #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.
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KINGS PARK Quick Response Saves House Story by Jeff DiLavore – FD Rant News Photos by Jeff DiLavore and Jim LoDuca KPFD Photo Unit
Photo by Jim LaDuca On a beautiful Saturday afternoon, March 9, 2013 the Kings Park Fire Department was alerted for a report of a car fire in a garage at 643 Landing Road on the corner of Rosewood Road. Smithtown Fire Communications [4-2-0] advised Chief Mark O’Brien [4-1-30] that a caller reported the fire and was have difficulty breathing possibly due to smoke inhalation. Assistant Chief John Gallo [4-1-32] and Assitstant Chief Tim Clark [4-1-33] arrived on scene moments apart to find an auto on fire partially in an attached 2 car garage that was rapidly autoexposing to the 2nd floor of the residence. Chief Gallo transmitted smoke showing and asked the alarm to be re-alerted as a 13/35 [working fire]. Smithtown FD was alerted for a RIT and Commack for an engine to the scene. The crew from 1st due Engine 4-1-3 quickly stretched a 1¾” handline and advanced on the fire. With an aggressive attack and coordinated ventilation the fire was contained mainly to the auto and the garage area with minimal fire damage inside the home. Kings Park responded with 2 engines, a ladder, ambulance and fire police. East Northport sent an engine and Commack VAC an ambulance to standby at Kings Park’s headquarters. Units were on scene for approximately an hour. The oocupant of the home was treated by EMS on scene and later transported to Stony Brook University Hospital with undisclosed Photo by Jeff DiLavore injuries.
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Early Morning Start For NORTH AMITYVILLE Story and Photos by Eric Devine Just After 5 a.m. on Saturday March 9th, The North Amityville Fire Co. was toned out with a report of a house fire on Dixon Ave. With a crew in house from a prior alarm, Engine 1-7-1 was the first unit on the road. With SCPD and Amityville PD on scene, dispatch advised the officer of 17-1 that they were going to work. The engine picked up a hydrant and laid in as the officer of the rig transmitted the working fire and the crew quickly stretched a line to the front door to try and make a push. After the working fire was transmitted, Amityville was notified for aR.I.T.and Copiague for an additional engine to the scene. With Amityville’s R.I.T.from Ladder 1-1-5 set up in the front of the house, Copiague’s Engine 1-3-5 stretched an additional line but due to the heavy fire load, crews were forced to back out and go into defensive operations. Shortly after going into defensive operations, crews went back inside to hit hot spots. At this point of the alarm Chief of Department MaxoMarcelin [1-7-30] had taken over command and requested an additional engine from North Lindenhurst to respond for manpower along with additional manpower from Amityville for overhaul. Amityville’s Engine 1-1-2 responded along with E-1 from North Lindenhurst. No injuries were reported at scene and the TOB Fire Marshall and SCPD Arson squad was requested for investigation since the house had been vacant and boarded up. North Amityville also responded with Engines 1-7-4,17-10, Heavy Rescue 1-7-5 and ambulance 1-7-8 manned by the paid EMS personnel.
Rollover Accident in LOCUST VALLEY Story and Photos by Mark Bellew This accident tied up one of the main intersections in the village on Sunday March 10th at about 8:30am. The Locust Valley Fire Department was notified of an auto accident with reported entrapment at the intersection of Forest Avenue and Birch Hill Road. They arrived to find an SUV on its roof in the intersection, and the driver unable to free himself. The Brothers and Sisters, led by ChiefDomenickScaperotta [5401]quickly went to work with the Hurst Tools to get the victim free. Once the Jeep was stabilized, medical personnel from LVFD EMS provided aid to the victim inside the vehicle as other members worked to free him. Before long, the driver was extricated, and moved to the ambulance for further evaluation and treatment. Locust Valley FD Ambulance [541] transported the patient to Nassau University Medical Center due to the mechanism; no information was available about his condition. Nassau County Police Emergency Services provided assistance on scene and uprighted the vehicle after the incident was placed under control. Click Here for More Photos of Locust Valley’s MVA
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NORTH PATCHOGUE Extricates Passenger Story and Photos by Robert Garofalo
The North Patchogue FD responded to this two car MVA with Heavy Rescue Saturday March 9th at approximately 1445hrs. The accident happened on Route 112 near Morris Avenue pinning the female passenger in the Honda Accord. Under the command of Chief Dan Doscher[5-17-31], members from Engine 3 immediately placed their tools into operation to remove the passenger side doors and “B” post. While the extrication was underway members from ES Units 16 and 17 as well as First Responder 21 tended to the three injured motorists. The three patients were all transported to Brookhaven Memorial Hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Also on scene assisting was SCPD Emergency Service Unit 6 as well as Fire Police. Click Here for More Photos of North Patchogue’s MVA
Scion Crash Lands in RONKONKOMA Story and Photos by Robert Garofalo The Ronkonkoma FD responded to this single vehicle MVA Sunday March 10th at approximately 2140 hrs. The Scion was reportedly heading northbound on Coates Avenue when the vehicle crossed the railroad tracks leaving the road striking a curb, mailbox and fence before going airborne. Once the Scion was airborne it grazed several large bushes uprooting them before it landed in the driveway of a nearby home. Under the command of Chief John Santoli[5-24-32], members from Rescue 8 and Engine 6 secured the vehicle while EMS members tended to the injured driver. She was transported to Stony Brook University Medical Center by EMS Unit 16 with relatively minor injuries. Click Here for More Photos of Ronkonkoma’s MVA
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The Radio Room By Phil Lichtenberger – Monitor Long Island
Building your Monitoring Post Antennas Part I: Basic Antenna Theory For those who remember the kick-off in my last column, I will be taking you through how to setup a Monitoring Post to help you maximize your listening experience. We had to take a pause last month thanks to a total computer crash that hosts the majority of the Monitor Long Island, Inc. & W2LIE.net scanner feeds, as well as all the radio programming we do. Now that the shop is almost back in order, I can continue to push forward on these tutorials. The antenna section of the “Building your Monitoring Post” series will be broken down into four total sections. Thanks to feedback from some of the column readers, the original direction has been tweaked to help answer some of the questions that were submitted by email - w2lie@w2lie.net This month will be some basic antenna theory. When I say basic, I mean a 30,000foot view on antennas. I won’t be diving into any of the math or much of the physics. I don’t want to lose anyone in the process. The rest of the series has been revised into the following: Part II – Omni Direction Antennas Part III – Directional Antennas Part IV – Antenna Placement and Tips And for those of you who would rather watch a video on this subject matter, I invite you to skip to the end of this article for an old but informative video. What is an antenna? As defined in Wikipedia, “An antenna (or aerial) is an electrical device which converts electric power into radio waves, and vice versa. It is usually used with a radio transmitter or radio receiver. In transmission, a radio transmitter supplies an oscillating radio frequency electric current to the antenna's terminals, and the antenna radiates the energy from the current as electromagnetic waves (radio waves). In reception, an antenna intercepts some of the power of an electromagnetic wave in order to produce a tiny voltage at its terminals,that is applied to a receiver to be amplified.”[1] Now there’s a pretty fancy definition to explain how an antenna functions! In simple terms, the antenna is taking the radio waves that it can sense, and passes those electric impulses down the coax and to your radio (or from your radio to the antenna if you are transmitting). Not all antenna designs are created equally. We’ll cover some of the specifics in later months, but for now, let’s keep things at 30,000 feet. Directional antennas are what some of us remember as the big TV antennas mounted on houses. They were pointed in the best direction to tune into the local TV channels. In Nassau, most of the TV antennas were pointed west, towards NYC. However, if you were far enough in Suffolk, maybe you wanted to pick up NYC, or you had a rotor on your antenna so you could point towards Connecticut to get some of those local broadcasts. Omni Directional Antennas is what most of us have daily interaction with. Think of the antenna on your car, the antenna on top of your scanner, your hand held radio, and most transmitter sites. Omni Directional and Directional systems both have their pros and cons. As the name implies, Omni Directional designs can pick up
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signal usually in a 360degree pattern, while directional antennas has a specific beam width that they are designed to pick up RF in a small footprint. The benefit of a direction antenna is you get more gain.
(Side view of an Omni Antenna’s radiation pattern (L) | Top view of a Directional Antenna’s Radiation Pattern (R)) (Images via Wikipedia.org) What is Gain?: In the simplest of terms, antenna gain is exactly what it sounds like. It is the antenna’s ability to transmit or receive compared to an isotropic antenna, measured in decibels. Well, what is an Isotropic antenna you ask? Your common scanner discone antenna is a very common and well known isotropic antenna. A discone antenna has a gain of 0dB. 3dB is equivalent to double power, so in theory, an antenna with a 3dB gain should receive or transmit twice as good as a discone antenna. Do you want the complex formulas to measure antenna gains? If you enjoy physics and math, give this page a good read: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antenna_gainThat should make your head hurt for a while. Also, while talking gain, antennas are also measured in efficiency. The efficiency rating is a ratio of the power delivered to the antenna, versus the power actually radiated by the antenna. An antenna with no loss, is said to be 100% efficient, however, most antennas do have some sort of loss due to the materials that make up the antenna. Resonate Frequencies In this last section of some antenna basics, I would like to talk about resonate frequencies, and how they are very important to an antenna. Some of you like to take off the packaged antenna off your new scanner, and some replace it with an antenna that was designed to work on 800Mhz. This will work great for800Mhztrunking, but you might have noticed that you can’t receive “Low Band” or VHF transmissions all that well. That is because the antenna was designed to be resonate in part of the 800Mhz band. It is like fine tuning your engine. When you have the proper air to gas ratio, the engine will be fine tuned. If the mixture is off, you might hear the engine sputtering when you try and give it more gas. Some antennas are fine tuned to work best on a very small range of frequencies. Other antennas, will work over a large range of frequencies. What causes this? It is simply because the antenna isn’t resonate on the frequency you are trying to use it on. Resonance is measured in Standing Wave Ratio, or SWR for short. SWR is the ratio of forward vs reflected power. If you transmit 50w to properly tuned antenna, you Diamond D-130J Discone should not expect to have any power reflected back to the transmitter. Transmitting on an antenna that is not designed for the frequency you are operating on may cause some of your transmit power to be reflected back to your radio. Enough of this power coming back to your equipment could blow out the finals of the radio. While just using a mismatched antenna
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on a receiver only station won’t cause your radios to explode, you will notice a degradation on reception while monitoring a frequency outside the antennas designed range. In addition to SWR, each antenna might have a specific range of frequencies it can work on. This is known as the bandwidth, or “Q” value of the antenna. Some antennas have a very wide bandwidth, while others might have an extremely narrow bandwidth. An example would be an antenna designed to work from 450Mhz – 470Mhz would have a very wide bandwidth. A narrow bandwidth antenna might only work for 450 – 455Mhz (or even tuned down to a very specific frequency). Another design characteristic that will come into play is the antenna’s impedance (annotated with a Z). If the impedance of the antenna doesn’t match what the radio requires, you might find out that the antenna doesn’t receive or transmit as well as you might have expected. Several things may come into play with impedance, such as the type of coax you are using. For what we are interested, most antennas, coax, and radios will require 50ohms. We’ll touch more in impedance and the role it plays when we discuss coax.
To best explain standing wave ratio and impedance, as well as matching networks, I would like to recommend this video. It is an old “film projector era” movie, but the information in there has not changed at all. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DovunOxlY1k To skip over the introduction and get right into the video, please move your player to the 1:30 As you can see, I’ve lightly touched on several subjects in this guide. There were times where I could have taken us deep into discussions on each topic, but I’ve tried to keep as much theory at bay and keep us cruising at a high altitude view on the subject. There are entire courses around antennas, and this article was penned to get you familiar with some of the basic terms. I’ve tried to put down some building blocks for use to use on the rest of the Antenna Topics, as well as future topics in this series. If you have any questions, or comments about antennas, please feel free to e-mail me at w2lie@w2lie.net and I will be sure to answer your e-mails in upcoming columns. Until Then, remember you can follow my updates on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/w2lie.netand keep up to date on some of my projects on Instagram at http://instagram.com/w2lie 73 (Best Regards) Phil / w2lie [1] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antenna_%28radio%29 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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Limo Burns in CENTEREACH Story and Photos by Chris Sabella - On Scene Photography On Saturday March 9th, just after 10:00am, the driver of a stretch Cadillac limo was driving eastbound on route 25 in Centereach when suddenly surrounding drivers frantically tried to get the limo drivers attention to advise him that his car was on fire.After driving for almost a mile, the driver saw black smoke entering the cab and drove into a nearby gas station to escape from the burning car. Centereach Fire Department responded to the scene but had a light crew due to a training that was taking place at the same time out of district. With the help of a Selden Firefighter (and photographer for the FD Rant News), who was snapping the pictures, the crew was able to extinguish the fire within minutes.
Heavy Fire on Arrival in PLAINVIEW Story and Photos by Mark Bellew Shortly before after 10 am on Sunday March 10, 2013, the Plainview Fire Department responded to multiple reports of a house fire at 15 Karen Drive. The first chief on the scene advised of a working fire and mutual aid was requested for a FAST from Bethpage. Engine 9511 was 1st due and stretched two handlines to begin the attack on the fire and also to protect the exposure. Farmingdale and Hicksville were were requested for mutual aid to the scene. Bethpage’s crew was put to work and Syosset was notified to be the new FAST. During the operation, crews were pulled out of the structure due to a collapse potential. After a brief exterior operation knocked down all of the heavy fire, crews went back in to overhaul the interior. All of the occupants are accounted for and uninjured. One firefighter was evaluated for minor burns. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Nassau County Fire Marshal’s Office. Click Here for More Photos of Plainview’s House Fire
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Print Form
In Memory of Ames & Elliott Run at Academy of St Joseph May 4th, 1952 tragedy struck the Brentwood Fire Department. Three members: Charles Elliott, Martin Ames and Andrew Wittman Jr. were trapped in a raging fire near Pilgrim State Hospital. Charles Elliott & Martin Ames died from injuries received in the inferno and because of their unselfish act, Andrew Wittman Jr., although badly burned, survived the ordeal. The fire truck was also destroyed. In 1956, a memorial bell was placed in front of the Brentwood Fire Department main headquarters. Later, a larger monument was erected on the same site in their honor. The original memorial was placed at the Fireman’s Home on the Hudson. The goal of our 5K Scholarship Run is to commemorate their lives and their dedication to the Hamlet of Brentwood.
Race Date: April 13, 2013 Line up time: 8:00am • Race start time: 9:00am Applications must be postmarked no later than April 6, 2013. Entry Fees: Pre-registration $28.00 by April 6, 2013 Late registration or on day of the race: $30.00 fee. Make checks payable to Brentwood Fire Department Ames & Elliott Scholarship Fund. Mail checks & applications to 125 4th Street Brentwood N.Y. 11717 Entry Fees are non-refundable. Awards (1st Male & Female Overall) Top 3 Males & Females in these age groups: 14 & under, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75-79, 80-84, 85+
First 400 registrants will receive a quality T- shirt!!
Course: The race will start at the Academy of St. Joseph / C.W. Post entrance off of Second Avenue. The runners will exit the Academy and turn left heading west on Second Avenue. They'll continue west across Brentwood Road, past the Brentwood Fire Dept. Headquarters to the end where the street will turn south on to First Street. Runners continue past the Brenteood Recreational Center and turn left onto Thrid Avenue heading east. The runners will turn right on to Brentwood Road and continue to head south towards the 2nd entrance of the Academy of St. Joseph (corner of Brentwood Road. & Commack Road). They will turn left and continue east through the gate and follow around the trafficcircle to the left. They will pass the Maria Regina Nursing Facility, continue in front of the school, and past C.W. Post College. They will turn left, follow around the Convent to the back of the school and end at the Start / Finish line. Waiver: I know running a road race is potentially a hazardous activity. I will not run the race unless I am medically able and properly trained. I assume all risks associated with this event including, but limited to falls, contact with other participants, the effects of the weather, including heat/cold, humidity, dehydration, traffic and road conditions , all such risks being known and appreciated by me. Having read this waiver and knowing these facts and considerations of your accepting my entry, I for myself and anyone entitled to act on my behalf, waive and release the Hamlet of Brentwood, the Brentwood Fire Department & District, Islip Town, the Academy of St. Joseph, all sponsors, race directors, their agents, volunteers, their representatives and successors from all claims or liabilities of any kind arising out of my participation in this event. I grant permission to use any photographs, motion pictures, recordings, and any other record of this event of any legitimate purpose.
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If you are under 18 , this waiver must be signed by your parent or legal guardian. Last Name: Address: E-mail:
First Name: City , State, Zip : Age on race date:
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Telephone: Runners Time of Last Race:
I would like to register for the 5K run / walk. I would like to volunteer. I can not participate but would like to make a donation to the Ames & Elliott Scholarship for ( circle one) $25 $35 $75 $100 0ther For information visit the Brentwood Fire Department at www.brentwoodfire.com
KINGS PARK Rapid Response Saves Two Story and Photos by Jeff DiLavore – FD Rant News
On Sunday March 10, 2013 the Kings Park Fire Department was alerted for a water rescue behind the Old Dock Inn at The Bluff located at the end of Old Dock Road. Initial reports given to Chief Mark O’Brien [4-1-30] and Assistant Chief Tim Clark [4-1-33] was that there people in the water near the dock area. Upon arrival, Chief Clark confirmed two people in the water approximately 75 feet offshore clinging to a pylon after their kayak had overturned. Chief O’Brien immediately requested mutual aid from the St. James, Nesconset and Northport Fire Departments for dive teams to respond. Meanwhile, Kings Park’s team responded with 4-1-12 and 4-1-19 [boat]. It was decided not to launch the boat and instead members donned exposure suits with tethers controlled by members on shore. A swift current was heading out while one of the victims was heard yelling to crews that she could not hold on much longer and told them to hurry. As the members entered the water and approached the victims they advised them to let go of the pole and assisted them to shore. The water temperature estimated in the mid 40’s as the victims were reported to have been in the water for over twenty minutes. As they exited the water, both victims were immediately treated by EMS and transported to St. Catherine of Sienna Hospital. All mutual aid was turned around and units were up within 30 minutes. Link to Gallery: Kings Park Water Rescue 3/10/13 Long Island FD Rant News – Volume 2 Edition 3– March, 2013
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Final Resting Place for Ford Pickup in HEMPSTEAD Story and Photos by Kevin Madigan - K2M Photography Just after 17:00 hours on the evening of March 11th the Hempstead Fire Department was dispatched to 46 Greenwich Street [Peninsula Boulevard and Grove Street as the cross streets] for a report of a car into a building. Upon arrival the first units on scene were met with a Ford pickup into the number one side of a funeral home. Also involved in the accident were three other vehicles strewn across Greenwich Street. It was alleged the Ford pickup crashed into a Toyota and Nissan sedan and attempted to flee the accident by putting the truck into reverse. Once in reverse, it was said the truck struck another Toyota sedan then going on to crash into the building. The hit into the building caused significant, structural damage and the department of buildings was requested to the scene. Firefighters on scene helped to secure the autos and transport the aided. There were four aided taken from the scene to area hospitals. None of the injuries are believed to be life threatening and the cause of the accident remained under investigation. All fire department units were under the command of Hempstead Chief of Department Scott Clark [80]. Click Here for More Photos of Hempstead’s MVA
CENTER MORICHES MVA Story and Photos by Chris Sabella - On Scene Photography Center Moriches Fire Department responded to a reported head on collision on Moriches Middle Island Road at Jerusalem Hollow Road in Center Moriches. Firefighters were able to free the driver and treat a second driver for their injuries and transport them to Brookhaven memorial hospital in Patchogue.
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JERICHO Responds to Overturned Tractor Trailer Story and Photos by Mark Bellew
A Tractor-trailer carrying a load of soil overturned on the Long Island Expressway the morning of March 11, 2013. The truck was entering from Broadway southbound to I-495 Eastbound. The Jericho Fire Department responded with an ambulance from Rescue Company 4 and an engine from Trident Engine Company 3. The driver of the truck was taken by NCPD ambulance to an area hospital for evaluation. Nassau County PD ESU was also on scene. A small oil spill was contained on the roadway. Traffic was backed up for miles as crews worked to upright the truck and clean up the load of soil spilled on the highway. Click Here for More Photos of Jericho’s Overturn MVA
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RIVERHEAD Works Hard to Get to House Fire Story by Jeff DiLavore – FD Rant News Information provided by Riverhead FD PIO Bill Sanok Photos by Ex-Chief Steve Beal Shortly before 1330 hours on Monday March 11, 2013 the Riverhead Fire Department was alerted for a report of a house fire on Peconic Bay Boulevard in Aquebogue. Initial reports were that Riverhead PD was on scene with a working fire. First in Engine 6-2-1 dropped 500 feet of feeder line from the closest hydrant as they approached the heavily involved house which was set back off the road approximately 200 feet. Due to overgrowth of trees, the area around the home was difficult to access. As lines were being stretched, crews used chain saws to cut away branches and trees to facilitate access by Ladder 6-2-6. Chief of Department Tony White [6-2-30] arrived and assumed command with Assistant Chief Pete Jackman [6-2-33] also responding. As crews attempted to make entry into the building they were hampered by large amounts of the homeowner’s belonging blocking the entry ways. Due to cluttered conditions and the volume of fire it was decided to go to an exterior attack. Meanwhile the Jamesport FD was alerted to respond as a RIT, Eastport with an Engine and Flanders to standby. Riverhead VAC was also on scene. After clearing space to operate, Tower Ladder 6-2-6 was able to set up a master stream and begin to hit the fire. The fire was brought under control after an extended operation. All occupants were accounted for and no injuries were reported. The Rivehead Town Fire Marshal responded to investigate the cause and the Riverhead Town sent machinery to raze the home after it was deemed to be unsafe to occupy. This was Riverhead’s second working fire in 2 days.
SUV Overturns InLINDENHURST Story and Photos by Chris Colletti - LNBN On March 12, 2013 the Lindenhurst FD and SCPD 1st Precinct officers were activated for a reported overturned auto at the intersection of N Fulton Ave & Frank St. Numerous 1st precinct sector cars as well as Chief of Department, Jim Gallagher [1-6-30] were en-route with his Assistant Chiefs. Upon their arrival, they had an overturned SUV with no entrapment as the driver had self-extricated with minor injuries. Speedy dry was needed for a fluid and gasoline spill at the scene.Lindenhurst ambulance 1-6-7 transported the driver of the overturned vehicle to Good Samaritan Hospital in West Islip. The second patient on the scene had refused medical attention.The SUV was uprighted and the scene was placed under control within an hour. Click Here for More Photos of Lindenhurst’s MVA Long Island FD Rant News – Volume 2 Edition 3– March, 2013
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“Firefighter Safety Training”
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Long Island FD Rant News – Volume 2 Edition 3 – March, 2013
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BELLPORT Lights up the Sky
Story and Photos by Robert Garofalo Additional Photos by Matt Thomas - LNBN
Photo by Robert Garofalo On Tuesday evening March 12th at approximately 2300hrs, the Bellport FD was toned out for a residential structure fire at Atlantic and Post Avenue’s. Under the command of Chief of Department Richard Omelchuk[5-1-30], a working fire was promptly transmitted for heavy fire in a two story private dwelling. The fire was consuming the entire second floor and burning through the roof. First Due Engine 5-1-5 being supplied with a 5” line promptly placed the primary attack line into operation. Members from Truck 13 attempted to make entry Photo by Robert Garofalo but due to the large volume of fire and the compromised structural integrity of the roof Chief Omelchuk ordered an exterior operation. With three lines in operation the fire was quickly knocked down with extensive overhaul to follow. The Bellport FD was assisted at the scene by the Brookhaven FD for RIT and the Hagerman FD. Also on scene for medical was South Country Ambulance. Suffolk County Fire Coordinator Bob Smith[5-0-4]was also on scene assisting with the operation. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Town of Brookhaven Fire Marshal and the SCPD Arson Squad. No injuries were reported. Click Here for More Photos of Bellport’s House Fire Long Island FD Rant News – Volume 2 Edition 3 – March, 2013
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Additional Photos of BELLPORT’S HOUSE FIRE Photo by Robert Garofalo
Photo by Robert Garofalo
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SELDEN Car vs. House with Heavy Fire Story by Chris Sabella and Jeff DiLavore Photos by Chris Sabella and Robert Garofalo
Photo by Chris Sabella
Tuesday evening March 12, 2013 the Selden Fire Department received a call for car vs. house with a fire at 4 Campo Avenue. Upon arrival of Chief Joseph Leavens[5-25-30] found a pick up truck had struck a private residence, ruptured the gas meter and was actively burning. There were occupants home at the time of the incident but they managed to escape unharmed. The home quickly became heavily involved in fire as it was being gas fed. The alarm was re-toned as a 13/35 [Working Fire] and mutual aid was requested from Centereach for a RIT and Terryville for an engine to the scene. National Grid was requested to respond forthwith as well. Multiple handlines were put into operation to contain the heavily involved fire until the gas could be shut down. The home sustained severe damage. Units were on scene for several hours. Coram and Gordon Heights provided standby coverage during the alarm.
Photo by Chris Sabella
Photo by Chris Sabella
Photo by Robert Garofalo
EDITOR’S NOTE-This home belongs to a member of the Selden Fire Department who was attending training at his quarters when the alarm came in. While responding he knew the call was on his street but was unaware it was his home until arriving on scene. While his family was able to escape the home unharmed, the family lost nearly all of their possessions. Please join all of us here at the FD Rant News and the Selden Fire Department as we offer our assistance to one of our own. Donations can be dropped off at Selden’s Fire Headquaters on Woodmere Place or sent to PO Box 2345 Selden NY, 11784. ANY DONATION IS APPRECIATED!
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FD Rant News and Buff Groups Come Together for a Brother in Need Story by Dominic Orlando
The staff of the FD Rant News in concert with members of two of Long Island’s largest Buff Networks, The Late Night Buff Network (LNBN) and the Island Buff Network (IBN) came together on Sunday, March 17th to help a fellow fireman from Suffolk County and his family in a dire time of need. The groups arrived at Selden’s headquartes with much needed, and appreciated, donations for Lieutenant Michael Cosgrove and his family after a car drove into their house, rupturing the natural gas lines and ultimately resulting in a fire that consumed the home in the evening hours of March 11. [See Selden Fire Article].The three groups sprang into action collecting money and donations for the firefighter and FD Rant News Owner Jeff DiLavore presents a check to Selden Fire Department Truck Company Captain for his family in an effort to stand together and maintain the the Cosgrove Family. brotherhood all firemen share. The Buff groups donated a combined $600 to the the Cosgrove family along with some other donations that were brought up to Selden’s firehouse that Sunday. The FD Rant news made a sizeable monetary donation and offered some FD Rant News gear as well. In addition to the donation that Sunday, the members and administrators of both IBN and LNBN collected an additional $1,000 to be delivered to Lt Cosgrove and his family at a future date to be determined. Instrumental in the organizing and collecting of funds was Firefighter Tom Scott Jr.from Central Islip and Maria Napolitano, who is adaughter of Selden a Selden Fire Commissioner. The over arching importance of the event is that when a brother or fellow member is in trouble, Long Island firefighters still know how to band together and help another brother when he is down. The fundraisers were a big success and a great showing of support for the Lt and his family. The Long Island FD Rant News, the members and administrators of IBN and LNBN would like to send our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all those who contributed and donated. Members of the FD Rant News Team, Late Night Buff Network and Island Buff Network gather at Selden FD Headqaurters after making a presentation to the Cosgrove Family.
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SELDEN Holds Spaghetti Dinner Fund Raiser for the Cosgrove Family Story and Photos by Chris Sabella
Lieutenant Cosgrove and Family
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Members of the Gordon Heights FD supporting the cause
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FD Rant News Family Member Working to Battle Cancer by Megan Garofalo When I was fifteen years old, I was dignosed with malignant melanoma. Now that I am cancer free, people think that my fight is over and that I won; but my fight against cancer is never over. The Relay for Life event being held on June 8th is another battle in the war against cancer and I need an army to help me in my quest to conquer this disease. I need people behind me to support me. I did not defeat cancer on my own the first time around and I cannot do it alone going forward. During my battle I had amazing friends, family, doctors, and neighbors behind me every step of the way. Now, I am asking for your support to continue the fight by making a contribution to my relay team named “The Conquistadors”. Donations can be made in your own name, in the name of a loved one, in honor of someone who was lost to the disease, or in honor of a survivor like me. The word hero is used to describe many different people in our society. To those who hel pus fight this deadly disease by making a donation will be a hero in my eyes. Thank you all for support. If you would like to make a donation please click on this link: http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR?team_id=1341182&pg=team&fr_id=49383 EDITOR’S NOTE: Megan Garofalo is the daughter of Robert Garofalo, an FD Rant News correspondent. All of us here at the FD Rant News are grateful that Megan has overcome her illness and we are proud to say that we support her efforts to raise money for this wonderful cause. We ask that all of our readers please take the time to contribute what you can to her cause and to help her meet her goal for this fund raiser. Great job Megan. We got your back!!! - JD
FAMILIES OF THE FIRE SERVICE Photos by Ron Schankin
Huntington Manor Chief of Department Fred Steenson Jr with his dad 50 year member and honorary Chief Fred Steenson Sr.
FD Rant News correspondent Ron Schankin with his son and junior firefighter Brett! Proud poppa!
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MANORVILLE Handles Heavy Fire and More…
Story and Photos by Robert Garofalo
The Manorville FD was dispatched to a residential structure fire Wednesday morning March 13th at 0935hrs. Numerous calls were coming in to dispatch for fire in a two story residential structure set back off the road on a 15 acre parcel of property. With the initial reports coming in, units were advised to use extreme caution as the police and fire departments as well as neighbors were aware of past incidents with the home owner and reports of possible “booby traps” having been rigged. With first arriving Chief Snow on scene he observed SCPD officers clearing numerous barricades along the dirt road leading up to the house. The barricades began at the roadway where a locked iron gate wrapped in chains greeted the officers and continued from there. Under the command of Chief Howie Snow [5-16-31], a working fire was transmitted for the fully involved second floor of the home. Chief Snow had first due Engine 5-16-8 drop a 5” supply line and make their way up the dirt road dropping over 1300 feet of hose. Simultaneously, uncertain as to the location of the resident’s, members cautiously made entry to the first floor living area making a limited and quick primary search. With negative results as well as the fast moving fire and the possibility of “booby traps” the primary search was terminated. Chief Snow setting up the Command Post at the entrance to the property assigned East Moriches Chief Robert Kanas [5-7-31] as the Operations Chief while he maintained Incident Command. With Engine 5-167 on the hydrant a relay was established supplying Engine 8 with a positive water supply. The deck gun was utilized to begin darkening down the fire while members also placed three handlines into operation. As the fire was beginning Long Island FD Rant News – Volume 2 Edition 3– March, 2013
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to darken down,Manorville Captain Rich Berni observed the silhouette of the male homeowner inside the structure on the first floor. With assistance from Eastport Captain Mike Tortorice they immediately assisted the victim from the home to safety and then to an awaiting ambulance. During the operation SCPD Emergency Service Unit as well as 7th Precinct officers remained on scene in force to insure firefighter safety from the possible threats that had been communicated. The Manorville FD was assisted at the scene by the Westhampton Beach FD for RIT and the East Moriches, Quogue, Center Moriches, Eastport, Ridge and Riverhead fire departments while the Mastic FD was on standby at Manorville’s headquarters. With the fire knocked down and a partial roof collapse members cautiously conducted a more thorough search of the entire occupancy where they located the deceased wife and pet dog on the second floor. The initial reports of “booby traps” appeared to be unfounded after a thorough check of the area and home. The husband was transported to Brookhaven Memorial Hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Also on scene were Suffolk County Fire Coordinators and the Town of Brookhaven Fire Marshal as well as a SCPD helicopter on standby. The scene was subsequently turned over to the SCPD Arson Squad and Homicide detectives. Click Here for More Photos of Manorville’s House FIre
“I’ve Fallen and I Can’t Get Up” Photo by Chris Colletti - LNBN
At a recent MVA in North Amityville our correspondent Chris Colletti captured this image of a fire hydrant that was having a bad day. It is unknown if the hydrant was intoxicated, assaulted-OR BOTH. Suffolk PD units on scene would not comment. Firefighters at the scene advised the injured hydrant that an early medical alert device may be in order for the future. Luckily, the injuries were not life threatening and our pal should be back to supplying water again in no time.
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DEER PARK BATTLES Motor Home Fire Story and Photos by Brian Welliver – FD Rant News On the afternoon of March 13th at around 17:40 hours the Deer Park Fire Department responded to a report of a Motor Home fire on East 5th Street and Golden Ave. Upon arrival, Assistant Chief Philip Scarfi [1-4-33] advised Babylon Central that he had a fully involved motor home. Engine 1-4-9 responded first due and stretched a 1 3/4” handline. The crew from 1-4-9 quickly knocked down the fire while crews from Squad 1-4-6 and Ladder 1-4-10 checked for extension in the adjacent building. The search turned up negative and the fire was contained only to the Motor Home. All of the Deer Park units were back in service within less than an hour. After investigation the cause of the fire was a space heater that was running inside the motor home. Click Here for More Photos of Deer Park’s Motor Home Fire
BRENTWOOD Caps Off Busy Day in Suffolk Story by Chris Colletti – LNBN Photos by Jeff DiLavore – FD Rant News and Chris Colletti– LNBN Adding to an already busy day for fire departments across Long Island, around 11:00pm on March 14th, the Brentwood FD was activated for reports of a kitchen fire at 52 Morton St. off of Washington Ave. As Chief of Department Thomas W. Waldron [3-2-30] arrived on scene,he requested a re-tone for a working fire and established command. He reported there was heavy fire on the exposure 2 side with extension to the 2nd floor of a 2 story private dwelling. The first due engine into the scene stretched two 1 ¾” handlines to the front door, making an agressive interior attack. Primary searches were also conducted at that time and all came up negative. All visible fire was knocked down within 15 minutes of the alarm. Brentwood Legion EMS treated 1 patient on the scene and was transported to the local hospital. LIPA was called to the scene to cut power to the home. Mutual aid was requested from Central Islip FD for the Rapid Intervention Team to the scene and the Bay Shore FD for 1 engine to stand by at Brentwood FD's headquarters. The Town of Islip Fire Marshal's office also were on scene for the investigation of the fire. Click Here for More Photos of Brentwoods House Fire
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Dinner Time Work forAMITYVILLE Story by Chris Colletti – LNBN Photos by Chris Colletti, Lauren Cronemeyer and Eric Devine On March 14th, Amityville PD was taking multiple calls for reports of smoke showing from the garage at 20 Baylawn Rd. Chief of Department Charles Scudlo [1-1-30] arrived on scene stating he had "smoke showing" and advised the electrical service on the exterior of the dwelling was on fire with possible extension into the attic. He immediately requested a re-tone for a working fire and established command. Copiague FD was called in to the alarm to Photo by Eric Devine stand-by as the Rapid Intervention Team. Amityville FD Assistant Chiefs Robert Waegerle [1-1-31], Jeff Erath [1-1-32], Leland Greey [1-1-33] and Town of Babylon Fire Coordinator Craig Stadelman [1-0-3] also were on the scene assisting with the operation. Amityville Engine 1-1-4 of Hose 4 was first due into the scene and upon their arrival to hit the hydrant down the block and stretch 2 - 1 3/4'' Photo by Lauren Cronemeyer handlines, one to the front door and one into the garage. The crew from Ladder 1-1-5 pulled up shortly behind them and forced entry into the garage and front door. Searches were conducted and were all negative. Overhauling was underway when LIPA and National Grid arrived on scene to cut the power and gas service to the home. The fire was placed under control within short order and the mutual aid was released from the scene.
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GREENLAWN Stops Fast Moving Fire Story and Photos by Jeff DiLavore – FD Rant News Thursday night March 14th continued to be a busy night in Suffolk when the Greenlawn Fire Department toned out for a garage fire at 33 Briarfield Lane at approximately 2025 hours. Upon arriving at the scene Greenlawn Chief Scott Waryold[2-730]was met with a heavily involved attached garage fire rapidly extending to the rest of the home. A 13/35 [working fire] was transmitted and mutual aid requests were made which brought Huntington and Halesite to the scene; each with a RIT and Centerport with Engine 2-6-3 as well. First due Engine 2-7-7 crew quickly stretched lines to attack the fire as Ladder 2-7-4 took a position in the driveway on the 1-4 corner.Assistant Chiefs Kurt Allen [2-7-31], Mike Zeis [2-7-32] and Mike Ellis [2-7-33] were all on scene directing various parts of the operation. With an aggressive push and within a few minutes the heavy fire was knocked down but not before there was a total collapse of the garage structure. Extensive overhaul was needed to check for hot spots. A total of 3 lines were in operation to bring the fire under control. Huntington Manor provided an engine and East Northport sent an ambulance to standby at Greenlawn’s quarters. The Town of Huntington Fire Marshal was on scene to investigate the cause of the fire. This was one of 10 working fires that occurred on March 14th.
School Bus Accident InISLIP Story and Photos by Ken Bradbury On Wednesday March 14th the Islip FD was activated for a Sig 16/23 MVA with a School Bus involved. 3-4-14 with Lt. Jared Gunst on board responded along with ambulance 3-4-6. Upon arrival, they had found a car had struck the rear of a Mini Bus occupied by the driver and seven children. One child was transported with neck injuries(Non-life threatening). The Islip Exchange Ambulance also responded. Lt Gunst (OIC) held all units until occupants could be transferred to another bus.
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TRICKS OF THE TRADE by Joe Laino
MOTIVATING THE “UNMOTIVATEABLE” Recently I was out with some friends and we got to talking about life as an EMS instructor (yeah, I know….riveting conversation). The question was asked “how do you get someone to be interested in learning what you’re teaching?” Without getting philosophical, I thought about it for a minute and said “I can’t make them be interested”. Wow, talk about an honest reply? The very first night of each class, I ask the students what motivated them to want to take an EMT class. The responses I get are as varied as the class itself. It doesn’t matter to me nor should it matter to me what motivated someone to want to become an EMT. What matters to me is what the students’ level of motivation is, once they’re in the classroom. However, every now and then, I see students walk through the door with that look on their face that says “Yeah, whatever. I’m here because I was told I need to be here by my Captain/Chief/Mother/Father/Parole Officer” (just joking about that last one). They have no intrinsic motivation to be in class. Or, there’s the student that’s the classic high school slacker that should thank the heavens we have “No Student Gets Left Behind” laws in schools now. How do we, as instructors, reach those students? Simple…..motivate them! How??Challenge them to excel. Challenge them to learn something new; something outside their comfort zone. Challenge them to prove to you that they really want to earn this level of certification. Impart some of your knowledge on them. Whether you’re a professional educator like those of us at the EMS or Fire Academies, or whether you’re on the Training Committee at your firehouse/VAC, it’s your responsibility to motivate the “unmotivateable”. At the EMS Academy, we’re constantly looking for ways to improve the delivery of our teaching methods. As your department training officer or training committee member, you can never say “It’s good enough”. It can NEVER be “good enough”. It’s up to you to find the way to get through to that difficult learner, the student / member that is easily distracted or who just doesn’t seem to “get it”. Finding ways to motivate your students will vary from class to class, and from person to person. A truly effective teacher is gifted with that talent. We all have a favorite teacher from our past. To this day, I remember my 11th grade Social Studies teacher. Man, he was the best. He understood me (no easy task) and he forced me to raise my game a notch. That’s the kind of teacher I’ve tried to be; the one that reaches his students and makes them want to be the best they can be. As your department trainer, you should have that goal too. Lives depend on it. ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Joe Laino, EMT-CC, CIC, is a 26 year EMS veteran. He’s been an active EMS provider in the Nassau, Suffolk and NYC regions. He is an Ex-Chief and Lifetime Member of the Mineola Volunteer Ambulance Corps, where he currently serves as Chairman of the Board of Commissioners. Joe has been on staff at the Nassau County EMS Academy since 1999, where he is currently a First Deputy Chief Instructor and a Regional Faculty Certified Instructor Coordinator. Joe also served on the Nassau REMSCO for nine years; in that time he chaired the EMS Systems Committee for 6 years. He is also the Owner of CPR PLUS LLC. Joe can be reached at cprplusllc@gmail.com Long Island FD Rant News – Volume 2 Edition 3 – March, 2013
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“ Thea g e nt so fNe wY o r kLi f ea r ed e d i c a t e dt ohe l p i ng t he i rc l i e nt sd os e l f l e s st hi ng s .Pr o t e c t i ngl o v e do ne sa nd e ns ur i ngt he i rf i na nc i a ls e c ur i t y .I t ’ saj o bt ha tc a l l sf o r t hemo s tk no wl e d g e a b l ep r o f e s s i o na l si nt hei nd us t r y .Of c o ur s e , i fy o ua s k e dt he m, t he y ’ ds a yi t ’ sno ta b o utt he m. I t ’ sa b o utt a k i ngc a r eo ft hep e o p l ewhoma t t e rmo s tt oy o u. ”
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Caller Across the Bay Leads OCEANSIDE on their Way Story and Photos by Kevin Madigan - K2M Photography At 18:13 hours on the evening of March 14th, the Oceanside Fire Department was dispatched to a reported house fire at the intersection of Waukena Avenue and Woodward Street. Oceanside dispatch advised responding units that multiple calls were being received reporting the fire. However, when Assistant Chief Bill Madden [241A] arrived at the location he found nothing showing and requested a callback. Oceanside dispatch advised the caller was calling from Baldwin and when she looked across the bay the house behind her was on fire. Other fire units went to check the surrounding area and upon further investigation, units found smoke emanating from the back of 500 Ross Place at the end of Bayfield Boulevard. When the Chief arrived at the revised location, he immediately transmitted the signal ten [working fire] for the house which was vacant and under construction.Oceanside [Terrace] Engine 248 pulled first due on the scene and stretched two lines with one put into operation. The fire was quickly knocked down and was contained to a small area of the roof and siding on the number three side of the home. Baldwin and Rockville Centre were among the mutual aid notified for the fire.
Click Here for More Photos of Oceanside’s House Fire
WEST SAYVILLE Makes Quick Work of Townhouse Fire Story and Photos by Robert Garofalo On Thursday, March 14th at approximately 1500hrs, the West Sayville FD responded to a residential structure fire at the Townhouses on Willow Wood Drive in Oakdale. Under the command of Chief of Department Robert Doucet[3-10-30], a working fire was transmitted for fire in one of the units.Members from first due Engine 1 took supply from a nearby hydrant and immediately stretched the primary attack line making an aggressive attack on the fire. Members from Rescue 3 and Truck 5 handled vent, entry and search operations while Engine 1 knocked down the fire. Members from Sayville Community Ambulance treated and transported two elderly occupants suffering from smoke inhalation and other non-life threatening injuries. Also on scene was the Sayville FD for RIT and the Bohemia FD for an engine. The Bayport FD was on standby at West Sayville’s headquarters for the duration of the alarm. Suffolk County Fire Coordinator Don Miller[3-0-1] was on scene assisting with the operation. The cause of the fire is under investigation. Click Here for More Photos of West Sayville’s Townhouse Fire
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Main Street Fire Becomes Main Attraction in PORT WASHINGTON Story by Kevin Madigan Photos by Kevin Madigan and Mark Bellew
At approximately 13:20 hours on March 14th the Port Washington Fire Photo by Kevin Madigan Department was dispatched to a reported building fire at 55 Main Street, just off of Herbert Avenue. The first units on scene were met with a fire condition around one window on the building. Shortly after arriving on scene,Chief Cole [8500] transmitted the signal ten (working fire) for the three story building located at the corner of Main Street and Herbert Avenue.With the help of high wind gusts, the fire began to evolve within the century old buildingandtwo additional ladders were requested to the scene. The ladders that responded in were Great Neck Vigilant Ladder to the front of the building and a ladder from Manhasset-Lakeville to the rear.
Photo by Kevin Madigan
Within thirty minutes of operations the attack became exterior based as the fire load grew too heavy across the cockloft. As conditions on the fire scene deteriorated the request for mutual aid companies to the scene and to backfill empty houses grew. Among the towns requested to relieve units were ManhassetLakeville, Williston Park, Roslyn, Roslyn Highlands, Glenwood, Glen Cove, Westbury, Garden City Park, and New Hyde Park. Approximately six hours into the operation a signal twelve [under control] was transmitted by Port Washington command.
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As night fell, mutual aid companies began being released both from the scene and various firehouses. It was initially stated that the cause of the fire was due to workers on the roof of the building but the investigation continues.All occupants of the apartments and businesses made it 7out safely along with those on the roof. No injuries were reported; however, a few were evaluated on scene by medical personnel. The Red Cross, Town of North Hempstead Buildings Department, and Fire Marshals were all on scene. All fire department units were under the command of Port Washington Chief of Department Geoffrey Cole [8500]. Click Here for More Photos of Port Washington’s Building Fire
Photo by Kevin Madigan
Photo by Mark Bellew
Photo by Mark Bellew Photo by Mark Bellew
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WANTAGH Fire on SunsetAfter Sunset Story and Photos by Kim Versheck Shortly after 21:00 hours on March 14th 2013, the Wantagh Fire Department was alerted to a report of a house fire on Sunset Lane, in the Levittown section of their District. Wantagh Engine 694 was first to arrive on scene and reported smoke showing from the rear of the residence. As the crew quickly hit the hydrant across from the home, the officer advised they had visible fire in the 3-4 corner of the Levitt style home. The Signal 10 [working fire] was quickly transmitted; alerting all stations and brought Levittown Ladder 621 to the scene as the FAST. 1st Assistant Chief Jason Jackowitz[6901]took command of the scene, as crews began to stretch the first of three lines into service. Quick work was made of the exterior fire as Ladder 6912 began their searches. As firefighters made their way up to the second floor they were met by heavy smoke and heat. The Fire had made its way up along the roof joists and was behind the knee wall, which was covered in plywood slowing the crews access to it. After the fire showed its face again crews made a quick knock down of the remaining fire. There were no reported injuries and the fire was brought under control in about an hour. Seaford and Bellmore provided coverage of the district during the alarm. Click Here for More Photos of Wantagh’s House Fire
Jumbo Garage Gets Big Start in FREEPORT Story and Photos by Kevin Madigan/K2M Photography
On the afternoon of March 15th a groundbreaking ceremony was held outside the Freeport Fire Department Exempts Hall on North Long Beach Avenue. The ceremony took place to mark the start of construction for a garage for “Jumbo”, a 1906 American LaFrance that is still owned and maintained by the Village of Freeport and members of the Exempts. The over a century year old apparatus still runs and appears at various musters and events throughout the calendar year. The garage will provide better housing for the antique over its current housing behind Freeport Fire Department Headquarters. Click Here for More Photos of Freeport’s Groundbreaking Ceremony
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SMITHTOWN Quick Work on Townline Story and Photos by Jeff DiLavore – FD Rant News Friday night March 15th, the Smithtown Fire Department under the direction of Chief John Hansen [4-2-30] responded to a house fire at 3387 Townline Road. Upon arrival of Assistant Chief Steve Sisino[4-231]he advised there was smoke showing and had Smithtown Fire Communications [4-2-0] retransmit the alarm as a 13/35 [working fire]. Engine 4-2-2 was 1st due and the crew stretched a handline to make an attack on the fire. Engine 4-2-4 secured a water supply and fed 4-2-2 while Ladder 4-2-7 took the front of the building. A total of two 1 ¾“ handlines were used in the operation. Hauppauge was requested to the scene for a RIT. Fire Coordinator BobDemoustus [4-0-3] and Larry Schenkenberger [4-0-2] were also on scene to assist with the operation. St. James and Kings Park provided standby coverage at Smithtown’s quarters for the duration of the alarm. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
LEVITTOWN with a quick knockdown Story and Photos by Eric Dobrini On March 16th at around 2142 hours, The Levittown Fire Department was alerted for a reported car fire in the local Target Parking lot. Nassau County Police were first on scene and advised of a working car fire. As Chief 6200 arrived on scene he also reported the working fire to incoming units 627 and 626. One 1 ¾” line was stretched during the operation. The scene was secured shortly after.
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MASSAPEQUA Attached Garage Fire Story and Photos by Lauren Cronemeyer On Saturday March 16, 2013, at 0531 hours the Massapequa Fire Department was alerted for a house fire at 91 Dover Street , East Massapequa. Upon arrival, units were confronted with a heavy fire condition showing from the first floor exposure 1 side. First due Engine 634 secured a water supply, stretched a 1 ¾” handline and began the fire attack. First arriving Ladder Company 636 laddered the building and conducted searches. The blaze was brought under control quickly and no injuries were reported. South Farmingdale Fire Department provided mutual aid as the FAST truck. Fire Operations were under the direction of Chief of Department Stephen Deresta [6300].
BELLMORE Tree Has the Luck in St. Patrick's Day Crash Story and Photos by Kevin Madigan On the afternoon of St. Patrick’s Day, March 17th, the Bellmore Fire Department was dispatched to a reported car versus tree in front of 2930 Shore Road [Randy Lane as the cross street]. The first units on scene were met with a one vehicle accident with one person injured. The driver of the Mercedes-Benz sedan was taken from her auto and loaded onto an awaiting stretcher. She was transported by a Bellmore Fire Department ambulance to an area hospital. Bellmore Engines 602 and 603 were on scene along with Ladder 606. All fire department units were under the command of Bellmore Chief of Department O’Brien [600-00].
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Man passes out at wheel, hits tree in MANORVILLE Story and Photos by Matt Thomas On the morning of March 17th at around 11am,the Manorville Fire Department and Riverhead Ambulance Company were activated for a motor vehicle accident on Schultz Road. The driver of the vehicle was heading southbound on Schultz as he swerved off the road, hitting a tree head on. As the first units arrived, he told EMS that he had passed out at the wheel. No other vehicles or people were involved. Manorville FD responded with Rescue 1, Quint 6, and Fire Police 12. Under the command of Chief ElioZapparata [5-16-30] along with 1st Assistant Chief Howie Snow [5-16-31]and2nd Assistant Chief Sal D'Amato [516-32] the crews from Rescue 1 and Quint 6 helped stabilize the car and package the patient. Riverhead EMS transported the patient to Peconic Bay Medical Center in stable condition.
OYSTER BAY Chimney Fire Snuffed Out Story and Photos by Mark Bellew On March 17th shortly after 7:30pm, the Oyster Bay Fire Department was dispatched to a residence on northern Boulevard for a report of smoke in the house, and a possible chimney fire. Moments later, Chief Frank Mantegari III[5500] arrived on scene and reported there was an active chimney fire. Engine 558 was first due to the scene. Chief Doug Schadler [550A] along with Assistant Chiefs Rob Walles [5501] and Tim Barnett [5503], were also on hand to direct operations. Members of the Oyster Bay Fire Company No. 1 & Atlantic Steamer Fire Company responded and quickly went to work. Before long, the fire was quenched, and the companies returned to service. Click Here for More Photos of Oyster Bay’s Chimney Fire
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Chemical Suicides Story and Photos by Tim Ivers Additional Photo by Tim Asbell It’s a nice sunny Saturday and your department is alerted for an ambulance call. The dispatch information is for a subject slumped in a car at the local rail road station. You drive to quarters, get in the ambulance and head for the location. You might be thinking it’s probably some person who had a little too much to drink the night before and they’re still sleeping it off or maybe it’s just a tired commuter. But, have you ever considered the possibility of it being a “Chemical Suicide”? Chemical Suicide, sometimes called “Detergent Suicide” is a method of taking your own life that is becoming more popular in the United States. This method first gained popularity in Japan and seems to be increasing here in our country. The method involves the mixing of two household chemicals, normally an acid mixed with a sulfur containing material that will produce Hydrogen Sulfide gas. To increase the potential for a toxic dose the victim will usually do this in a small or confined space such as a car, bathroom or closet.
So what is Hydrogen Sulfide? Hydrogen sulfide is a colorless gas. It is often abbreviated as H2S. It is often described as having a “rotten egg” smell and is heavier than air so it will tend to collect in low lying places. H2S can be found in such places as manholes, storm drains and sewer lines and is a poison that affects the central nervous system. At low concentrations (0-10 ppm) irritation of the eyes, nose and throat can occur. At medium concentrations (10-50 ppm) headaches, dizziness and difficulty breathing, nausea and vomiting will occur. At concentrations above 100 ppm your olfactory nerve can be paralyzed and you will lose your sense of smell. Concentrations between 320-530 ppm pulmonary edema and respiratory arrest occur. If you have a concentration above 1000 ppm just one breath will cause unconsciousness and respiratory arrest. H2S has a LEL of 4% and an UEL of 44%. The mixing of the chemicals causes an exothermic reaction (it gives off a large amount of heat). Chemical suicides should be something that we as responders need to be aware of and also plan for BEFORE we come upon one. Statistics have shown that in 80% of the known chemical suicides first responders suffered injuries. We all want to go home at the completion of every call so we need to be educated about what we should be looking for and what steps we need to take to protect ourselves. By taking a few extra seconds to survey the scene we can handle these incidents as safely as possible.
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As was mentioned earlier, H2S is produced when two other chemicals are mixed. These chemicals are usually typical household items that can be found under your kitchen sink, the supermarket of local hardware store. Some of the “ingredients” aren’t as easily found in the United States as they are in Japan so sometimes a pesticide or detergent is substituted. A bucket or container is also needed to mix the chemicals in. These recipes can be found easily online and it is possible to download a “kit” complete with the ingredients, recipe and warning signs, that’s right SIGNS, to place outside to alert responders to the potential danger. This may sound nice, that a person who is going to end their own life is kind enough to warn first responders of the dangers that could actually kill them too, but not all the victims are kind enough to post the signs. You might notice the rotten egg smell as you approach the scene as well. Personally, if I can smell something that means I am a little too close. At that point you might want to have a multi-gas meter running so that you have a better indicator of what chemicals you may be facing and what the concentration is in order to formulate a plan on how to deal with the task(s) at hand. Consider Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as well. The usual ambulance crew jumpsuit or vest might not be enough. You should most certainly be considering Self Contained Breathing Apparatus. Remember that H2S is heavier than air so make sure your meter is close to the ground. Other things to consider would be the use of binoculars to read any warning signs and possibly view the condition of the aided from a safe distance. As you approach the car take a look around. Are all the windows rolled up? What can you see on the inside? Are there household chemicals inside? Do you see a container with liquid in it? Is the aided responsive? Is the aided breathing? Remember, the reaction from the mixing of the chemicals is exothermic; hence, the use of a Thermal Imaging Camera is another consideration. An unresponsive but breathing subject is a situation that will require you to make some decisions. First make sure you have requested a Haz-Mat team to your scene. If you can wait for them to respond monitor the victim as safely as possible. Try getting the attention of the person. Blow the horn or siren, scream or yell. Tap the window. If the victim is unresponsive and you decide it’s necessary to make entry to the car to begin treatment then you have to remember your safety as well as the safety the rest of your crew. DO NOT MAKE ENTRY UNTIL YOU HAVE DECON IN PLACE! Once that door is opened all that gas is going to want to go somewhere so be sure you have evacuated a large enough area. Do not disturb any of the chemicals or containers inside the car. The victim will have to be decontaminated. Remove all clothing and double bag it and wash the person with soap and water for several minutes. Alert the receiving hospital before you are enroute to allow them to prepare for your arrival and so that you don’t contaminate the Emergency Department unnecessarily. Avoid any contact with the chemicals that you might find. Do not try to dispose of anything or attempt to neutralize the substances. Remember that this is also a crime scene so it is important that it is disturbed as little as possible to allow for a proper investigation. Not all chemical suicides take place inside an auto. Recently in Nassau County [photo right] one took place inside of a Long Island FD Rant News – Volume 2 Edition 3 – March, 2013
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hotel. For an indoor location most of the same concepts apply. You may see additional indicators that a possible chemical suicide is taking place such as doors and windows being sealed shut with tape or plastic. Because the location is indoors you should be considering evacuation of the building as a precaution. Try to assess your victim from a safe spot. Is it possible to see them through a window? Once again DO NOT MAKE ENTRY UNTIL DECON IS IN PLACE! Sadly in most of these incidents there may not be anything we can do for the victim. These calls are not the place for heroics and dangerous acts. H2S is 5 times more deadly than carbon monoxide and we take all the necessary precautions when encountering CO. It is important that we as responders do not become victims as well. The care and treatment of the aided is important but it is far more paramount that we all go home at the end of the call safe and healthy. The following links will provide you with some reference material to assist you should you encounter a chemical suicide call. Chemical Suicide: Responder Information http://www.hazmatfc.com/SiteCollectionDocuments/Chemical%20Assisted%20Suicide%20Responder%20Info.pdf Chemical Suicides, N.Y. Times, June 18, 2011 http://www.nytimes.com/2011/06/19/us/19chemical.html?pagewanted=all&_r=1& Chemical Data Sheet, Cameo Chemicals http://cameochemicals.noaa.gov/chemical/3625 About the Author: 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 EDITOR’S NOTE: The emergence of suicide by chemicals further adds to the list of hazards that firefighters and EMS respond to each day. Education and training is the key to mitigating these situations while assuring member safety. We urge all of you to please research and train on this type of response. - JD
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HAZMAT ASSISTED SUICIDES by Jeff O’Toole
Chemical suicides have been on the rise in the United States since 2008. This method originated in Japan in 2007, where over 2000 cases have been seen since. Also known as Detergent Suicide, this method involves mixing household chemicals to create deadly gas, which is lethal in contained areas. It is believed incidents of this nature are underreported in the U.S. Suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in the United States and the third leading cause among persons aged 15-34 years. Information on numerous suicide techniques are readily available on the Internet. Most sites encourage anyone planning to use a chemical suicide method to provide appropriate warnings about the presence of the deadly gas to people that might respond to the suicide. But don’t rely on the presence of signs at these incidents; they’re not always displayed. Incidents of this type pose a huge threat to the safety of first responders (Fire, EMS, Law Enforcement). Having a response plan, undergoing awareness training, and taking the time to size up these incidents, is the key to the survival of responding personnel. There have been an increasing number of chemical suicides or suicides by a similar nature on Long Island. Chances are your agency will encounter a situation of this type at some point in the future. The initial actions of first-in personnel will set the tone of how this incident will be resolved. The toxic gases formed by combining the chemicals in household cleaners are most commonly hydrogen sulfide and hydrogen cyanide. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a colorless, toxic gas. Its odor is often described as having an odor similar to that of rotten eggs; even a short exposure can cause olfactory fatigue (i.e., a temporary inability to smell the gas). At low doses, exposure to hydrogen sulfide can cause eye and respiratory irritation, headache, dizziness, loss of appetite, and upset stomach. Brief exposures to high concentrations (>500 ppm) of hydrogen sulfide can cause loss of consciousness and death. Hydrogen cyanide (HCN) is a bluish-white liquid or a colorless gas with a faint odor of bitter almonds and a bitter, burning taste. Hydrogen cyanide can cause changes in respiration depth, confusion, and asphyxia. Other methods of choice used in the region were asphyxiation by inert gasses (helium and nitrogen). An improvised “Suicide Hood” was fashioned in each of the incidents enabling the victims to breath the gas, causing oxygen to be displaced resulting in their deaths. This method provides less of a threat to responders and fortunately there are usually no other injuries to responding personnel. Responders must do a thorough scene safety check before attempting to open a vehicle with unresponsive patient(s). It is recommended that responders observe a “10 seconds to save your life” rule. Responders should take an extra 10 seconds during size up to peer into a vehicle and look for pails, buckets or other mixing vessels in the front or rear seats, containers of acids or pesticides, a yellow or green residue in the vehicle and to see if the vents that are taped off. If the incident occurs in a structure, such as an outbuilding or other contained area, there may not be any written warnings present. Responders need to be extremely cautious when investigating suspicious odor calls inside structures. Currently in the United States, the use of hydrogen sulfide or hydrogen cyanide has been linked to individual suicides. Approximately a half cup of an acid containing product and a half cup of a sulfa-containing product will generate enough gas to fill a standard 4-door sedan with more than 1000 ppm hydrogen sulfide gas. Most individuals are mixing several gallons in their vehicles, generating an incredibly lethal atmosphere in a matter of seconds that lasts for hours.
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Response Tips:
Survey surroundings of scene and vehicle
Search the area or the vehicle’s exterior for posted or visible warning signs Look for open containers or a mixing container Look for attempts to seal the vehicle, such as taping of doors, windows and air vents Do NOT rely on the presence of a chemical or unusual odor as a warning sign
Secure the area
If gas is emitting from the vehicle, responders should stay upwind Keep bystanders from the scene
Communication
Call the local HAZMAT team Ensure dispatch information is shared among all responders to enhance safety
Decontamination
Decontaminate the victim at the scene (remove and double-bag clothing) Decontaminate all responders and secondary victims involved in the incident Warn hospital personnel to take appropriate measures to avoid contamination of incoming patients
Transportation and treatment of victim
Because hydrogen sulfide and cyanide gases are in patient’s exhalations, mouth-to-mouth resuscitation is unsafe No antidote exists for hydrogen sulfide poisoning is supportive Exposure to hydrogen cyanide requires supportive care and rapid administration of specific antidotes Chemicals off-gassing from the victim may poison response personnel; therefore the transport vehicle should be well ventilated
Remember this scenario is also a crime scene and must be treated as such. The National HazMat Fusion Center has established best practice guidelines for a response to a chemical suicide incident. Helpful information is available in a flowchart that can be laminated and replaced in all response vehicles:http://www.hazmatfc.com/incidentreports/statstrends/Pages/Home.aspx This awareness information has been provided by the Hazmat Committee of the Nassau County Fire Commission to assist responders to understand the nature of current and emerging threats. All information is Open Source and based on the latest reporting and assessments. This should be used as an educational guide and responders should always follow their local guidelines and procedures.
Jeff O'Toole joined the Fire Service in 1977, belonging to four different Nassau Departments. Presently a firefighter/ 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
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FIFTY YEARS AND STILL GOING STRONG Story and Photo by Mark Bellew
Photo L to R: 1st Assistant Chief Roy Johanson, Ex-Chief Edward McEvoy, Chief of Department Frank Mantegari III, 2nd Assistant Chief Wayne Baratta
Past Chief Edward McEvoy received honors from the Oyster Bay Fire Company No. 1, The County of Nassau, and The State of New York for his 50 years of dedication to the volunteer fire service at Oyster Bay Company #1Annual Dinner held at the Westbury Manor on Saturday March 23, 2013. Oyster Bay Company #1 is celebrating their 125th anniversary this year as well. If You Have Story and Photos of an Event from your department and would like to see them published submit them to the FD Rant News at FDRantNews@verizon.net
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Horrific Accident in MEDFORD Story and Photos by Robert Garofalo The Medford FD along with Medford Ambulance was toned out for this single vehicle collision Monday March 18th at approximately 0115hrs. The accident took place on the LIE south service road just east of North Ocean Avenue. The SUV left the road striking a guardrail and large tree with such force the vehicle ripped in half ejecting and instantly killing the driver. Under the command of ChiefWilliamHart[5-14-30], members from Rescue 15 searched the area for possible additional victims. Medford EMS confirmed the DOA and also tended to a witness that was shaken up after what he had just seen. The SCPD secured the area as a crime scene to investigate the accident. Click Here for More Photos of Medford’s Fatal MVA
JAMESPORT Fast Work on House Fire Story by Jeff DiLavore – FD Rant News Photos by John Mazzucca On Wednesday March 19, 2013 the Jamesport Fire Department responded to a report of a house fire at 133 High Meadow Lane.Upon arrival of Assistant Chief Sean MaCabe [6-1-31] he observed flames coming from the one story ranch style home and relayed that information to Chief Duffy Griffiths [6-1-30] who then had the alarm reactivated as a 13/35 [working fire]. While awaiting the arrival of the Engine, the chiefs used water cans to keep the fire in check. Engine 6-1-1 was first due and the crew quickly stretched a 1 ¾” handline to douse the fire with minimal extension into the attic. A second handline was deployed as well as crews performed extensive overhaul during the operation. Engine 6-1-2 and Rescue 6-1-4 also responded as did Assistant Chief John Andrejack [6-1-32]. Riverhead VAC stood by at the scene and Riverhead Fire Department provided standby coverage at Jamesport’s quarters. The Town of Riverhead Fire Marshal [6-0-41] responded and the cause of the fire is under investigation.
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WEST SAYVILLE Battles Collyer’s Mansion Story and Photos by Robert Garofalo On Tuesday March 19th at approximately 2110hrs, the West Sayville FD was toned out for a residential structure fire on the corner of Cloverdale Drive and Sycamore Avenue. Under the command of Chief of Department Robert Doucet[3-10-30], a working fire was promptly transmitted for heavy smoke and fire visible on the exposures 1 and 3 sides of a two story private dwelling. First due Engine 8 being supplied from a nearby hydrant immediately placed the primary attack line into operation while members from Truck 5 and Rescue 3 began vent, entry and search operations. When members made entry into the home, they were greeted with heavy fire and a “Collyer’s Mansion” condition throughout the home. With the occupants confirmed evacuated and heavy fire Chief Doucet ordered an exterior operation. Second due Engine 1 being supplied from Engine 8 immediately stretched an additional handline to assist in darkening down the fire while Truck 5 set up on the exposure 3 side to begin roof ventilation. By the time the main body of fire was knocked down a total of five handlines were stretched and placed into operation. The West Sayville FD was assisted at the scene by the Sayville FD for RIT as well as the Bohemia, East Islip and Bayport fire departments all for manpower. Sayville Community Ambulance was on scene with multiple units for medical standby and the Sayville FD also had a standby unit at West Sayville’s headquarters. Two firefighters were treated at the scene by Sayville Community Ambulance for minor injuries. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Town of Islip Fire Marshal and the SCPD Arson Squad. Click Here for More Photos of West Sayville’s House Fire
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APPARATUS OF THE FIRE SERVICE North Amityville Ambulance 1-7-8 at a recent MVA
Bay Shore Heavy Rescue 3-1-8 on scene of an MVA
Photo by Ken Bradbury Deer Park Engine 1-4-9, Asst. Chief Scarfi [1-4-33] and Lt. Dom Albanese
Photo by Brian Welliver – FD Rant News Copiague Ladder 1-3-4 of Hook, Ladder & Rescue Company
Hempstead Engine One at the scene of a recent MVA
Photo by Kevin Madigan - K2M Photography Massapequa Ladder 636 at a recent working fire
Photo by Lauren Cronemeyer
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APPARATUS OF THE FIRE SERVICE Quogue Engine 7-7-1 on the scene in Manorville
Port Washington Engine 8515 operates on Main St.
Photo by Robert Garofalo
Photo by Kevin Madigan – K2M Photography
Selden Engine Company 2
Centereach TowerLadder 5-5-5
Photo by Chris Sabella
Photo by Chris Sabella Center Moriches Ladder 5-4-6 on the scene in Manorville Holtsville Ladder 5-11-7 at a recent house fire
Photo by Robert Garofalo Photo by Robert Garofalo
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SEAFORD Douses White, Hot Mustang Story and Photos by Fred Kopf Tuesday March 19th, 2013 at approximately 10:15AM the Seaford Fire Department was alerted to a report of a car fire in front of 2535 York Court in South Seaford. First arriving Nassau County Police Officers advised of a working car fire threatening a work van and asked for the fire department to "step it up." SeafordEngine 681 arrived on scene and found a Ford Mustang with fire showing from the engine compartment. The Mustang was parked only a few fweet from a contractor van and the fire was impinging on the second vehicle.Members quickly stretched an 1 3/4 hand line off E-681 and proceeded to attack and extinguish the fire using just the one line. No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation. Link to Gallery: Seaford Car Fire 3/19/13- South Nassau Fire Page
Van vs. Van in BRENTWOOD Story and Photos by Ken Bradbury On March 20, 2013 at 0520 hours, Brentwood units were activated for an MVA at Route 111 & Sycamore Avenue withreports of a victim trapped. Heavy Rescue 3-2-18 responded to find two vehicles in a head on collision. All victims were out upon arrival and 3-2-18 secured the scene.
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Barn Lane Burner in PORT JEFFERSON Story and Photos by Andrew Tetreault On Thursday March 21, 2013 the Port Jefferson Fire Department responded to a reported fully involved residential structure fire in at 4 Red Barn Lane off West Broadway. After Port Jefferson FD Dispatch [5A-1-0] toned out the residential structure fire at approximately 3:15 p.m.,they advised responding PJFD chiefs that Suffolk County Police Department was on scene confirming the fire within the structure. The automatic mutual aid plan for 1 Engine [5A-4-12] to respond to the scene was automatically started in conjunction with the Terryville Department. Upon arrival of the first PJ Fire Department chief, command was established and a Working Fire [13/35] was transmitted. Additional Mutual Aid was requested from Terryville FD for 1 Tower Ladder [5A-4-1] to the scene, Setauket Fire Department for a Rapid Intervention Team & Mount Sinai FD for 1 Engine [5A-5-6] to the scene. Crews stretched multiple hand lines into the single story ranch and proceeded to ladder the exterior of the residence. Due to the heavy volume of fire that was encountered, all firefighting personnel were pulled from the structure and an defensive exterior attack began. Both occupants and the family dog made it out of the home unharmed. Port Jefferson Volunteer Ambulance Corp [5-330] stood by as EMS at scene. The fire is currently under investigation by the Port Jefferson Village Fire Marshal & Suffolk County Arson Squad.
MAKE YOUR ADVERTISING DOLLARS EARN MORE MONEY FOR YOUR BUSINESS Here are a few points to consider before you spend another advertising dollar for your company: • The cost to advertise with FD Rant News is up to 75% LESS than ads placed in similar print media publications. • Our advertising model is superior to newspaper ads since your potential customers are just a click away from your company’s website and contact information. • We are able to place multiple banner ads throughout our publication rather than in just one static location in print media. Each one is a direct link to your choice of websites or webpages. Multiple ads in a single edition help to “brand” your company and increases attention of the readers. • One-Half Page and Full Page ads get your message across to our audience while providing maximum exposure to your brand. • We offer graphic design services to assist you in creating the best possible banner ads for your company. FD Rant News offers many different subscription packages for all types of advertisers. Please CONTACT US today to discuss our pricing and availability of premium locations for our next issue. Long Island FD Rant News – Volume 2 Edition 3 – March, 2013
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Cadillac Goes up in Smoke in COPIAGUE Story and Photos by Chris Colletti On March 22nd, the Copiague FD was requested to the vicinity of Wilson Ave. and Montauk Highway for reports of a vehicle fire. SCPD 1st precinct units and Chief of Department Justin Holtzworth [1-3-30]arrived on scene to a Cadillac in the right lane of eastbound Montauk Highway with an engine compartment fire. The roadway was blocked off by Chief Holtzwarth and police sectors and Engine 1-3-9 of the Eagle Engine Company, Heavy Rescue 1-3-3 and Ambulance 1-3-27 responded in. On their arrival, an 1 ¾” handline and 1 booster line were stretched, quickly knocking the fire down. Units operating on scene were released in short order and the right lane of Montauk Highway was temporarily shutdown awaiting the tow for vehicle removal.
MASTICFD and VAC Handle Head-On Story and Photos by Chris Sabella – On Scene Photography On March 22, the Mastic Fire Department responded for a head on collision on Montauk Highway in Mastic. At least 5 people were injured and one was transported via medivac to Stony Brook University Hospital with serious injuries.The truck and van collided in front of Valero gas station on Montauk Highway and Mastic Road starting an engine fire in the van which was extinguished by arriving PD units. Mastic Ambulance company members were quickly on scene as the accident was across from their HQ. Mastic and Mastic Beach ambulance also assisted in the accident by securing the scene and transporting the other patients.Detectives were on scene for an investigation and the roadway was closed for several hours.
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Roll-Off Truck on Top of Car in NORTH LINDENHURST Story and Photos by Chris Colletti Around 2:00pm on March 22nd, traffic came to a stop as the North Lindenhurst FD was toned out for reports of a truck on top of a vehicle with entrapment at the intersection of eastbound Sunrise Highway and North Delaware Ave. Chief of Department Brian Gassen [1-11-30] arrived on scene with his Assistant Chiefs Mike Newman [1-11-31] and Andrew Baranowski [1-11-32] and had a total of 4 vehicles involved; one being a roll-off dumpster truck. The roll-off truck attempted to avoid colliding with another vehicle and in the process drove on top the Honda Accord which then was dragged from the westbound turning lanes of Sunrise Highway and came to a stop in the eastbound lanes. It was a short distance away from striking 2 utility poles and crashing through the storefront of the Long Island Paneling, Ceiling and Floor store. Miraciously, the elderly driver was not pinned and walked away from the accident scene uninjured. She was evaluated on scene by North Lindenhurst EMS personnel and refused medical attention. The driver from the roll-off truck also walked away from the scene without injury. The firefighters from Heavy Rescue 1-11-5 had put the tools to work for a door pop on a Mitsubishi eclipse that was in the turning lane on the westbound side of Sunrise Highway which was also hit by the roll-off truck. Upon the completion of extrication, Ambulance 1-6-7 from the Lindenhurst FD transported the victim to Good Samaritan Hospital in West Islip with minor injuries. The 4th vehicle involved, a Honda SUV had minor front-end damage and the driver of that vehicle was not injured. North Lindenhurst Fire Police Unit (1-11-12) as well as multiple SCPD sector cars shutdown the highway which backed up the eastbound express lanes of traffic for miles. All FD units operating on scene were up within an hour of the alarm but the highway remained closed by SCPD for the removal of the vehicles involved along with a heavy duty tow for the removal of the roll-off truck. Sunrise highway was reopened later in the afternoon for the evening rush hour traffic.
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PLAINVIEW Stops Basement Fire Story and Photos by Mark Bellew Shortly after 9:30 am on Saturday March 23rdthe Plainview Fire Department responded to 143 Molrton Boulevard for a reported basement fire. Upon arrival of Assistant Chief [9502], there was smoke showing and a Signal 10 [working fire] was transmitted. Mutual aid for a FAST was requested from Bethpage [Ladder 3] as crews went to work. Hicksville [Engine 932] was requested to standby, but was then moved up to the scene as well as an engine from South Farmingdale.An aggressive attack was mounted against a basement fire in this private dwelling with 3 lines stretched and 2 operating.Syosset sent an ambulance, Westbury a ladderand Melville an engine to standby at Plainview’s quarters. The fire was contained to the basement, and no injuries were reported. A cat was rescued from the home, but ran off once outside. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Nassau County Fire Marshal's Office. Click Here for More Photos of Plainview’s House Fire
BRENTWOOD Quick Knockdown Story and Photos by Ken Bradbury On March 24th, The Brentwood FD was activated for a report of a structure fire at 3 Beech Place and Potters Blvd. Assistant Chief Mike Derbyshire [3-2-33] and ChiefTom Waldron [3-2-30] responded. Dispatch notified the chiefs that PD confirmed a working fire. 3-2-30 tranmitted the 35 thenrequested a mutual aid from East Brentwood to standby at the Main and West Islip for RIT.Uponarriving on the scene, 3-2-30 sized up that a motorcylcle was burning on the rear deck and he notified the Mutual Aid Departments responding in to disreguard. First due Engine 3-2-16 was asked to supply one booster to the rear of the structure and the scene was placed under control.All units were back in house within 15 minutes.
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HUNTINGTON MANOR Knocks Down Kitchen Fire Story by Ron Schankin Photos by Jeff DiLavore – FD Rant News On Thursday evening March 21st at 20:44 hrs the Huntington Manor Fire Department responded to a reported kitchen fire at 46 Deepdale Drive in South Huntington. Arriving within 3 minutes, Asst Chief Frank McQuade[2-4-31] transmitted the working fire. Under the command of Chief of Department Fred Steenson, Jr. [24-30], 2 lines were stretched to the front door off of first due engine 2-4-3. First due ladder 2-4-6 laddered the roof and provided ventilation. The fire was quickly knocked down with the kitchen being totaled and extension into the family room.During the search of the house the family dog was found on the 2nd floor suffering from burns and smoke inhalation. The dog was given oxygen with a special pet mask and transported to a local animal hospital where he was admitted with burns. Town of Huntington Fire Marshal was requested to the scene and the fire was ruled to be accidental due to cooking. Melville Fire Department provided R.I.T. duties while Huntington Fire Department provided coverage at Manors main. All units were back in service at 22:10 hrs.
CENTER MORICHES Responds to Daytime Work Story by Jeff DiLavore – FD Rant News Photo by Dan Manzella On Thursday March 21, 2013 the Center Moriches Fire Department responded to a house fire at 147 ChichesterAvenue.A working fire was transmitted and mutual aid was received from East Moriches, Eastport to control the blaze. Two lines were put into operation and the Town of Brookhaven Fire Marshal was notified for an investigation as to the cause.
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SELDEN Fast Work at Apartment Fire Story by Chris Sabella Photos by Chris Sabella and Jeff DiLavore – FD Rant News Thursday morning March 21,2013 the Selden Fire Department was activated for a signal 13 [structure fire] apartment fire at 103 Vista View Dr. in Farmingville.3rd Assistant Chief Dave Panibianco[5-25-33] arrived and found smoke coming from the apartment and activated a working fire. Mutual aid was requested from Farmingville,Coram and Centereach to the scene. Chief Panibianco made entrance to the apartment, located the fire in the laundry room and made a quick search for occupants. He then came out of the fire apartment and closed the front door while he waited for the first handline. The 1 ¾“ line operated by Ex Chief Rich Napolitano and crew, entered thru the front door making their way to the back of the apartment where the fire had started to extend to the kitchen and was quickly knocked down without further damage. The fire was under control in under 30 minutes and all units were up within an hour.
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“Grant-Guys” is NY’S largest fire-grant writer representing volunteer and combination fire departments in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Maryland. We represent over 100 fire departments and ambulance in corps. in Queens, Nassau and Suffolk. We write four basic grant applications: Assistance to Firefighter Grant Application (AFGP), SAFER (Staffing and Adequate Emergency Response), Fire Prevention and Safety (FPS), and NYS DEC. We identify, write, submit and track your AFGP applications from start to finish. As our grants are all submitted on-line, it doesn’t matter where you are located. We communicate through phone, Skype, and e-mails completely. In addition, we will work with, and train your grant-committee to get it up and running and self-sufficient. Twice annually, we conduct our highly successful “grant-camp” where we review and explain all of the grants we prepare, and discuss changes to up-coming grants. Upon award, we complete all related federal or state paperwork until you are fully closed and paid. We also assist in all press relations and in obtaining letters of support from elected officials. Our firm is 100% volunteer firefighter owned and operated.
2012 MAJOR RECENT AWARDS: Port Washington: AFGP. $366,000. PPE Bethpage FD: Critical Infrastructure Protection Grant. $80,000 Manhasset Lakeville FD: AFGP $300,000. Driving Simulator Smithtown FD: AFGP $796,000. SCBA (5 Regional Partners). Lynbrook FD: SAFER. $121,000.Recruitment and Retention. New Hyde Park FD: AFGP. $200,000. Rescue Truck Great Neck Alerts: SAFER. $500,000.(12 regional partners). Mercerville, NJ: SAFER. Hiring of 2 full-time firefighters. 15 NYS DEC 2012 Awards on LI.$25,000. Urban Area Security Initiative: $75,000. DASNY.$300,000.
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History on Display in Stony Brook Museum Story by Hannah DiLavore Photos by Jeff DiLavore
This 128 year old fire hose carriage is a head-turner. It is designed for carrying the hoses onto scenes where larger trucks fit. Today, we would call this truck a brush truck. It was created by Rumsey Manufacturing Company in Seneca Falls, New York and was the original; not a replica. It was made to be pulled by man not horse. This particular carriage is not on record for being used at all, though it has been the 'star' of many parades. This fire hose carriage is now on display in The Long Island Carriage Museum located in Stony Brook on Long Island. The Rumsey Manufacturing Company was a manufacturer of fire carriages made for on scene, parades, and display. The company that was based in Seneca Falls, New York was the leading manufacturer of the man-pulled fire carriages of the 1800s and they were very popular in use. Some never even saw real fire ground; they were entirely for display and others were used for many years! Sadly, Rumsey stopped manufacturing in 1890 and we can only marvel at the preserved works of art that Rumsey created so long ago. Having these works of art can help us learn not only about the past, it may even tell us about what we may create for our future fire engines or trucks. Check out what the Long Island Museum online: http://www.longislandmuseum.org/. It is a wonderful experience for families wishing to learn more about life in the 1800’s on Long Island. Long Island FD Rant News – Volume 2 Edition 3– March, 2013
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Chevrolet Malibu Burns Up in WANTAGH Story and Photos by Chris Colletti On March 23rd, the Wantagh F.D. was activated for reports of a vehicle fire on the N/B Wantagh Parkway at the exit ramp to Merrick Rd. Wantagh FD Assistant Chief James Bloomfield [6902] arrived first on scene, confirming the location of the vehicle and advised it was a fully involved Chevrolet Malibu. Engine 695 was the first due engine into the scene and stretched an 1 3/4'' handline into operation. Additional resources and manpower were on scene from Engines 693, 691 and Squad 6914. All F.D.units operating on scene were up within short order. Click Here for More Photos of Wantagh’s Car Fire
2nd Car Fire in One Day for WANTAGH Story by Kim Vershek - LNBN Photos by Ex Capt. Frank Salamone On March 23, the Wantagh FD was alerted for a car fire (for the second time that day) in the parking lot of 2823 N. Jerusalem Ave, home to Boccelli's Restaurant. Asst. Chief Jason Jackowitz [6901] was first on scene and advised that he had a working car fire. Shortly after, the first due engine (Engine 692) pulled into the parking lot and stretched a 1 ¾” line. Engine 697 was on scene as well to help with opening the hood and 6901hadfire police shut down the road. All units were up within 30 minutes.
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WANTAGH Midday Work Story and Photos by Kim Versheck Shortly before noon on March 23, 2013, the Wantagh Fire Department was alerted for a reported house fire at 2551 Wantagh Avenue. As Chief of Department William Allen [6900] took command, the working fire was transmitted and he advised incoming units that the home was under construction. Engine 691 was first due picking up a hydrant and laying into the scene. Ladder 6912 arrived and quickly laddered the residence as the first attack line of three was put into operation. The fire was showing from the roof line in the 1-2 corner as crews worked their way up to the second floor. Tower Ladder 6911 was put into operation to aid in opening up the structure around the fireplace as a crew from engine 695 used the third line to knock down the remaining fire on the exterior of the home. Wantagh firefighters brought the fire under control in under an hour. Bellmore tower ladder 606 was on scene as the FAST team as crews from Seaford and Levittown covered the district. No injuries were reported and the Nassau County Fire Marshal was called to investigate the cause of the fire. Click Here for More Photos of Wantagh’s
HOLTSVILLE Handles Chimney Fire Story and Photos by Robert Garofalo The Holtsville FD responded to a reported residential structure fire on Sunday March 24th at approximately 1645hrs. The reported fire was in fact a chimney fire at the single story home on Waverly Avenue off Union Avenue. Under the command of Chief of Department Joe Castiglione [5-11-30], members from first due Engine 6 immediately stretched a hoseline and were assisted by members from Engine 3. Truck 7 immediately made entry to the home checking for extension while Engine 6 members operated the line into the chimney from the roof. With no extension and minimal damage Chief Castiglione placed the alarm under control. Also on scene was Chief Mike Escue[5-11-32] as well as EMS Unit 16 and Fire Police 9. Click Here for More Photos of Holtsville’s Chimney Fire Long Island FD Rant News – Volume 2 Edition 3 – March, 2013
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Eagle Soars in to Pole in FREEPORT Story and Photos by Kevin Madigan - K2M Photography At 03:47 hours on the morning of March 24th, the Freeport Fire Department was dispatched to a motor vehicle accident with a forthwith response requested. The location of the accident was given as in front of 240 South Main Street with Raynor and Henry Streets on the cross. When Third Assistant Chief Butler [2103] arrived on scene he advised incoming units that there was one person pinned inside the vehicle. Freeport Truck Company responded to the scene with Ladder 217 and Heavy Rescue 217-2. Members of Freeport Truck Company along with members of Nassau County Emergency Services [who were also on scene] worked at freeing the lone occupant of the single vehicle crash. After an extensive extrication the driver was freed and loaded onto an awaiting stretcher. The victim was transported by County Ambulance 2397 to an area hospital. During operations Engine 211 stretched a line as per SOPs. After the victim was transported, fire department units took up under the command of Chief of Department Baer [2100]. 2421 and 2424 were the ESU Units on scene of the accident. Click Here for More Photos of Freeport’s MVA
BRENTWOOD Handles Heavy Rescue Story and Photos by Ken Bradbury On March 25th, the Brentwood FD responded to a Signal 23 Heavy Rescue at Newberry St. and Broadway, in front of Company 1’s firehouse. Assistant Chief Mike Derbyshire [3-2-33] wasthe OIC on scene and was accompanied by 3-28,18,1, and 11.Brentwood VAC transported one victim.
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Kia Loses in HOLTSVILLE Story and Photos by Robert Garofalo The Holtsville FD was toned out for an MVA on Tuesday, March 26th at approximately 0930hrs. The accident occurred at the intersection of Union Avenue and Middle Avenue between a Kia SUV and a tractor trailer. Under the command of Lieutenant Dave Schreiber [5-11-71], First Responder 81 and members from EMS 16 tended to the injured female driver of the KIA. Members from Rescue 4 secured the two vehicles while Fire Police 9 handled traffic control. The injured motorist was transported to Stony Brook University Medical Center with non-life threatening injures.
ELMONT Late Night Work Story and Photos by Ex-Capt David Ragusa Elmont FD Photo Unit On March 28, 2013 at 0110 hours the Elmont Fire Department responded to a report of a house fire at 16 Barbara Street. 2nd Asst.Chief Brian Schriefer [7012] was the first on the scene and immediately advised units of a working fire on the second floor of a two story dwelling. Arriving units quickly gained entry and were able to contain the fire to the second floor of the home. Assistance was rendered at the scene by Valley Stream FD as the FAST team, with Stewart Manor and Franklin Square Fire Departments standing-by. There were no reported injuries. CheifSchriefer requested the Nassau County Fire Marshal’s to respond to determine the cause and origin of the blaze.
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KINGS PARK FIRE DEPARTMENT Holds St. Baldrick’s Fund Raiser by Hans Richter – K.P.F.D. 100th Anniversary Committee Co Chairman K.P.F.D. St. Baldricks Team Captain On March 2, 2013 the Kings Park Fire Department proudly particpated in the St. Baldrick's "Conquer Kids Cancer" shave off competition held immediately following the Kings Park St. Patrick's day parade at the Kings Park Firehouse. This "Satellite Event" took place in conjunction with Mr. Jim Pavese[photo right] and his local business The Park Lounge. The Park Lounge has proudly sponsored a St. Baldrick's event for over five years now. The Kings Park Fire Department has sponsored a team in this event the past four years. This year the Kings Park F.D. Reached out to its neighboring Fire Departments and challenged them to a "Shave Off" as a way to celebrate the Kings Park
Jim Pavese collects donations
F.D. 100th Anniversary and to show its ongoing support of the great work of The St. Baldricks Foundation. Members from 8 different Fire Departments participated in the event raising more than $8,500 on that day. The Kings Park Fire Department was not done there. On March 24, 2013 several members of the team who were unable to particpate in the earlier event at the Lieutenant Mike Leavey-Truck Co#3 before & after
firehouse took part at the Park Lounge event and continued to raise donations for St. Baldrick's. At the time this article was written, the Kings Park Fire Department St. Baldrick's team has raised close to
Firefighter Kris Martin-FireMedic Co#5
$20,000. We could not have done this without the support of Jim Pavese, owner of the Park Lounge, our families, friends and neighbors. Donations to St. Baldrick's are not limited to this time of year. They can be made anytime. If you would like to support your local Kings Park Volunteer Firefighters St. Baldrick's team please visit our website http://www.kingsparkfd.org/ and click on the St. Baldricks icon or go directly to http://www.stbaldricks.org/. Link to Gallery: Kings Park FD St Baldricks Event 3/2/13
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Kings Park St. Patrick’s Day Parade Photos by Jeff DiLavore – FD Rant News
Kings Park Fire Department
Smithtown Fire Department
Nesconset Fire Department
Commack Fire Department
RoisinDubh Irish Pipe Band
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Aditional Photos of Kings Park St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Centerport Fire Department Stand by Crew
MAKE YOUR ADVERTISING DOLLARS EARN MORE MONEY FOR YOUR BUSINESS Here are a few points to consider before you spend another advertising dollar for your company: • The cost to advertise with FD Rant News is up to 75% LESS than ads placed in similar print media publications. • Our advertising model is superior to newspaper ads since your potential customers are just a click away from your company’s website and contact information. • We are able to place multiple banner ads throughout our publication rather than in just one static location in print media. Each one is a direct link to your choice of websites or webpages. Multiple ads in a single edition help to “brand” your company and increases attention of the readers. • One-Half Page and Full Page ads get your message across to our audience while providing maximum exposure to your brand. • We offer graphic design services to assist you in creating the best possible banner ads for your company. FD Rant News offers many different subscription packages for all types of advertisers. Please CONTACT US today to discuss our pricing and availability of premium locations for our next issue.
Long Island FD Rant News – Volume 2 Edition 3– March, 2013
Page 89
EAST ISLIP St. Patrick’s Day Parade Photos by Ken Bradbury – Deer Park Fire Photo
East Islip Color Guard
Bay Shore FD Antique
East Islip Members
3-4-32 Billy Moon
Bay Shore FD Band
Central Islip FD Band
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BETHPAGE St. Patrick’s Day Parade Photos by Lauren Cronemeyer
Bethpage Rescue 3
Elmont Color Guard
Plainview Fire Department
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Bay Shore St. Patrick’s Day Parade Photos by Ken Bradbury – Deer Park Fire Photo
Nassau County Firefighters Band
Bay Shore FD Color Guard
Bay Shore FD Band
North Babylon FD Band
Ocean Beach FD (3-20-1)
Islip FD Band
Long Island FD Rant News – Volume 2 Edition 3– March, 2013
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NASSAU COUNTY EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES ACADEMY 600 NEWBRIDGE ROAD EAST MEADOW, NEW YORK 11554 (516) 826-0802 FAX (516) 826-5121 www.VEEBEMS.org ROBERT A. LINCOLN, JR. Superintendent
ROBERT A. MEUSER, LPN, EMT-P Chief Instructor
JORGE L. GARDYN, MD, FACP Medical Director
COURSE CLASS STATE LEVEL STARTS EXAM EMT-CC (Ref) 04/29/2013 08/15/2013 EMT-CC (Ref) 04/29/2013 08/15/2013 EMT (Orig)
05/22/2013 08/15/2013
EMT (Orig) EMT (Ref) EMT (Ref) EMT (Ref) EMT (Orig) EMT (Orig) EMT (Orig)
06/01/2013 06/04/2013 06/04/2013 06/04/2013 06/10/2013 06/18/2013 06/18/2013
11/21/2013 08/15/2013 08/15/2013 08/15/2013 11/21/2013 11/21/2013 11/21/2013
FRANK J. CHESTER, EMT-CC Assistant Chief Instructor
DAYS OF CLASS Mon / Wed Mon / Wed Wed / Fri Sat Sat Tues / Thurs Tues / Thurs Tues / Thurs Mon / Wed Tues / Thurs Tues / Thurs
TIME
LOCATION
9 am – noon 7 pm – 10 pm 7 pm – 10 pm 9 am – 3:30 pm 9 am – 3:30 pm 9 am – noon 7 pm – 10 pm 7 pm – 10 pm 7 pm – 10 pm 9 am – noon 7 pm – 10 pm
NCEMSA NCEMSA Rockville Centre
NCEMSA NCEMSA NCEMSA Stewart Manor
NCEMSA NCEMSA NCEMSA
Call the Nassau County EMS Academy for information and registration.
VOCATIONAL EDUCATION AND EXTENSION BOARD
HUNTINGTON MANOR St. Patrick’s Day Parade Photos by Ron Schankin
New York City Police Department Emerald Society
Huntington Manor Fire Department
From Left to Right Robert LaMay (64 years Huntington), Larry Farrell (63 years Huntington), John LoScalzo (53years Huntington), Alan Bayley (57 years Manor), Cliff Schwier (62 years Huntington), Fred SteensonSr (50 years Manor)
Huntington Manor Color guard Matt Sandvick, Alex Demerest ,Sean Martin, Ryan Cummings
Members of The New York City Police Department Emerald Society Band ready to step off
Huntington Manor Chiefs from L to RFrank McQuade [2-4-31], Fred Steeson, Jr. [2-4-30], and Jon Hoffmann [2-4-33]
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ROCKVILLE CENTRE St Paddy’s Day Parade Photos by Emily Husser and Ex-Capt. Peter Scarinizi RCFD
Photo by Emily Husser
Photo by Ex-Capt. Peter Scarinizi RCFD
Photo by Emily Husser
Photo by Ex-Capt. Peter Scarinizi RCFD
Photo by Emily Husser
Long Island FD Rant News – Volume 2 Edition 3– March, 2013
Photo by Ex-Capt. Peter Scarinizi RCFD
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2013 Mini Indy Photos by Chris Sabella – On Scene Photography
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2013 Mini Indy
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PEEKSKILL Battles Garden Apartments Blaze Story and Photos by Mark Bellew On Thursday March 21st, 16 apartments were destroyed and approximately 40 people displaced when fire tore through this Peekskill apartment building. Building E, 2 Lakeview Drive was the scene of this unrelenting blaze. Firefighters from numerous departments including Croton-OnHudson, Ossining, VA Hospital FD, City of White Plains, Garrison, Yorktown, Continental Village, Lake Mohegan, Buchanan, and Millwood worked for over 8 hours before the building had to be demolished with an excavator – during which the excavator sank into the basement area, and the operator had to be assisted from his machinery. Numerous others provided stand-by coverage in the city's stations. The cause of the blaze was a careless smoker that lit a cigarette and left it unattended as he left the room momentarily. Once the resident returned to the room and found the fire, he attempted to snuff it, but it was too late… all he could do was knock on doors and warn his neighbors. Police and Firefighters rescued 2 cats and a dog. A water main break, and poor pressure hampered efforts to control the blaze. When all was said and done, there were no injuries to firefighters or civilians.
Click Here for More Photos of Peekskill Apartment Fire
EDITOR’S NOTE: While we normally don’t publish stories about fires off Long Island, we will publish stories from our correspondents when they cover an incident outside our area. Emergency scene coverage is what they do, regardless of where they are at the time. That’s what makes our correspondents some of the best in the business. Well done Mark and welcome aboard to the FD Rant News
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VAIL’S GATE Assists NEW WINDSOR for Commercial Job Story by Ken Welliver Photos by Dave Engenito
At around 2345 hours on March 21st, the New Windsor Fire Department [Orange County, New York] responded to a commercial building fire on Windsor Highway. One of the first mutual aid departments requested to the scene was Vail’s Gate Fire Department with and engine and a ladder and later on an additional engine and ladder to the scene. The City of Newburgh sent a FAST and an engine to standby in New Windsor. The heavily involved building took just under 12 hours to bring under control. Other mutual aid departments included: Cornwall, Stewart, Storm King, Washingtonville and Good Will. Editor’s Note – Many of you may be wondering why we are running a story about this fire. Well, back in November of 2012, after Hurricane Sandy devastated our area, the Vail’s Gate Fire Department came down to Long Island and provided coverage for both the Oceanside and Long Beach Fire Departments. They were here for several days assisting our Brothers and Sisters by responding to calls in those fire districts. We wanted to say thanks again to our brothers by featuring them in this edition. You can view the original article from our Hurricane Sandy Special Edition Part 2 http://nassaufdrant.com/files/LIFD-Rant-News-Special-Edition-HurricaneSandy-Part-2-FINAL.pdf JD
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About the Authors: Jeff DiLavore is a past Chief of the Lakeview Fire Department [1999-2000], a Registered Nurse and a former EMTCC. He is also the owner of NassauFDRant and SuffolkFDRant 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 at the Nassau County Fire Service Academy where he taught Technical Rescue, Vehicle Extrication, Haz Mat, WMD and numerous other classes. Chief McNamara is currently the Adjunct Instructor for Distant Learning for the Nassau FD RANT.
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. You can contact him at w2lie@w2lie.net
Joe LainoEMT-CC, CIC, is a 25 year EMS veteran.
He’s been an active EMS provider in the Nassau, Suffolk and NYC
regions. He is an Ex-Chief and Lifetime Member of the Mineola Volunteer Ambulance Corps, where he currently serves as Chairman of the Board of Commissioners. Since 1999, Joe has been on staff at the Nassau County EMS Academy and currently serves as 1st Deputy Chief Instructor. The recipient of numerous departmental , local and county awards, Joe has also served on the Nassau REMSCO for nine years; in that time he chaired the EMS Systems Committee for 6 years. He is also the Owner of CPR PLUS LLC. Joe can be reached atcprplusllc@gmail.com
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 firefighter/ 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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Support Our Advertisers 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.
Long Island FD Rant News – Volume 2 Edition 3 – March, 2013
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Long Island FD Rant News – Volume 2 Edition 3 – March, 2013
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