1st Responder FDNY June Edition

This section is exclusively dedicated to coverage of the New York City Fire Department PUBLISHING SINCE 1993

FDNY NEWS

WWW.1RBN.COM

JUNE, 2015

OVERTURN IN RIDGEWOOD

ALLEN EPSTEIN

On April 23, 2015, Engine 291 and Ladder 140 were dispatched to an overturned vehicle at Harman Street and Grandview Avenue in Queens. According to reports, the female driver hit three parked cars and overturned.

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FDNY dispatcher mourned in Queens Queens, NY. A sixteen year veteran as an FDNY dispatcher in Queens is being mourned by his fellow dispatchers and the FDNY as well as multiple volunteer fire departments.

Cittadino was FDNY Dispatcher #172 assigned to Queens from 1999 to 2015. He was also a

JUMP TO FILE #043015102 dispatcher for the Hewlett Fire Department for many years. In addition, he was a very active volunteer with the East Rockaway Fire Department.

Joey Cittadino, as many knew him, was an avid New York Mets and New Jersey Devils fan. He was fun, good-natured and loved by all who knew him.

Arrangements are pending.

- HEATHER PILLSWORTH

PROVIDED

RICHARD YORK

Basement fire in Woodhaven, Queens ALLEN EPSTEIN

School bus hits house On April 19th, first responders responded to 86 Avenue and Woodhaven Boulevard for a bus into a home. Firefighters arrived to find a school bus into a parked car and a home. The only person on the bus, the driver, was not injured. The investigation into the cause of the accident is ongoing.

Battalion 39 used the all hands at Box 8538 for fire in the basement of a private dwelling located at 86-03 86th Avenue off Jamaica Ave. Dispatch received calls for a basement fire with a neighbor who entered the home and did not come back out. First Due Engine 293 gave the 10-75 around 2:40 p.m. on March 23rd. All persons were accounted for and companies made a quick knock down.

ALLEN EPSTEIN ALLEN EPSTEIN

Car fire in Brooklyn

On April 19th, Engine 206 and Ladder 124 went to work on a car fire at Stagg Street and Stewart Avenue in Brooklyn. The main body of fire was quickly knocked down with one hose line.

Quick knock down in Queens

On April 26, 2015, FDNY firefighters were dispatched for a first alarm fire at 105 Avenue and 145 Street in Queens. Crews found fire in the walls on the first floor. One hose line was used to extinguish the fire.

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ALLEN EPSTEIN

JOHN HOPPER

Engine company stuck in the sand On May 5. 2015 while operating at a Brooklyn third alarm Box 3821 at Flatbush Avenue and the Belt Parkway, Engine Company 309's apparatus was stuck in sand. After the fire was placed under control, members of Engine 309, Ladder 159, Rescue 2 and Ladder 132 with their collapse unit attempted to remove the apparatus from the sand with the winch on Rescue 2's rig. After multiple attempts, members of Rescue 2 attempted a new approach by removing the concrete curb.

As soon as the members started cutting the cement, a Department of Sanitation wrecker arrived on scene and slowly was able to remove 309's rig.

ALLEN EPSTEIN

Five car MVA in Glendale On April 24, 2015, Engine 319 and Ladder 135 were dispatched for an MVA at 79 Street and Cooper Avenue in Queens. Crews arrived to find a five car MVA. Three of those vehicles were parked cars. Two patients were removed and transported to local hospitals for treatment.

The cause of the accident is under investigation.

PATCHES

If you have photos you would like to see in our “Patches” feature please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.

RICHARD YORK

Second alarm needed in Brooklyn A second alarm was needed for fire in a two story private dwelling at 220 Montauk Ave off Pitkin Ave in East New York, Brooklyn on February 25th.

Engine 96/Ladder 54 “End Of Story” JOHN HOPPER

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53 Engine and 43 Truck FDNY HOUSES FDNY HOUSES by Larry Woodcock

Spanish Harlem also known as “El Barrio” is an area of Manhattan known for its salsa and hiphop music. It’s history dates back to the 1860’s, when a large influx of Eastern European immigrants flooded the neighborhood. This included Irish, German, and Jewish, who became laborers for the Lexington Avenue subway and the many apartment buildings now populating the neighborhood.

Later on in the early 1900’s, Italian immigrants settled in East Harlem, as it was referred to back then. And by the 1920’s, so may Italians would call East Harlem home that it became New York City’s first “Little Italy”. It later became the home base for the Italian American mafia, including the Genovese crime family.

The first Italian feast celebrated in New York City took place on Pleasant Avenue and 114th Street, sponsored by Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church.

The year was 1881.

Built in 1884, it is still celebrated every year on Pleasant Avenue mainly from 114th to 118th Streets.

Most of the Italian population is gone, but the few who remain are clustered around the church and still put on a good feast every August. I attend on a regular basis.

By the 1960’s, the Puerto Rican population became the main population and the neighborhood staple became bodegas, which thrive throughout all the boroughs to this day.

Guardian of Spanish Harlem is, “El barrios” bravest Engine-53 and Ladder-43. Both companies recently celebrated their 125th and 100th anniversaries respectively.

Covering an area along with several other companies from above 96th Street to 125th Street and the East River over to 5th Avenue makes up the boundaries of Spanish Harlem.

Many award recipients have been given to 53 and 43 in a history that is 129 years and counting.

Prior to moving into their firehouse on 2nd Avenue, 53-Engine was solo and located at 104th Street between 3rd and Lexington Avenues. 43-Truck was in with 91-Engine on 111th Street.

The new firehouse built in 1974 was very different from any firehouse in the city with a modern contemporary look that more resembled a civic building then a firehouse.

Both companies are at or near the top in runs every year frequently surpassing 4,000 in a neighborhood that has a wide variety of structures from brownstones to tenements to public housing projects that are prevalent along Second and Third Avenues.

Its main drag, as it is referred to, is 116th Street because of its two-way direction. It includes houses, many retail shops and

markets, and is a short walk to the elevated train on Park Avenue and a short walk up to 125th Street and the heart of Harlem.

Perhaps the neighborhoods most well known establishment is Patsy’s Pizzeria on 1st Avenue at 117th street. Opened in 1933, it is one of New York City’s best pizzerias, famous for its thin crust and traditional ingredients. It is a must have for pizza lovers. It’s walk up

window is great for a slice on the run or its large dining room with beautiful exposed brick next door is perfect for a sit down meal.

Italian Harlem in the 1920’s was represented in Congress by Fiorello La Guardia, who later went on to be Mayor of New York City from 1934 to 1945.

The “Little Flower,” as he was called and beloved by many, was credited with restoring public faith

LARRY WOODCOCK

by reorganizing city hall from the depths of corruption and is acclaimed as one of the greatest mayors in American History.

Engine Company 53 was organized in January of 1885 and Ladder Company 43 was organized in November of 1913.

Together they have become known as “El Barrios Bravest” throughout the department and the community in which they serve.

1ST Responder Newspaper - FDNY

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ALLEN EPSTEIN RICHARD YORK

SUV on fire in Sunnyside

On April 19th, Engine 325 and Ladder 163 responded to a vehicle fire at 43 Street and Queens Boulevard in Queens. They were able to quickly extinguish the fire with one hose line.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

“The Vipers Nest” extricates victim

Engine 302 and Tower Ladder 155 responded to Baisley Blvd at 157th Street on the report of an accident with a pin on March 23rd. Tower Ladder 155 put the Hurst tool to work and removed an injured victim from the vehicle. The patient was transported to Jamaica Hospital.

ALLEN EPSTEIN

Three manholes and cars on fire

On April 18th, ConEd, the FDNY and NYPD were alerted to fires in Queens at 69 and Metropolitan Avenues. Three manholes were on fire with extension to three vehicles. One hose line was used to extinguish the fire. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

IN SERVICE If you have photos you would like to see in our In Service feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.

2015 Seagrave foam tanker

JOHN HOPPER

RICHARD YORK

All hands electrical fire

Battalion 39 used all hands at Box 2120 for an electrical fire at 107-26 88 Street off Sutter Ave in Ozone Park, Queens. Fire was on the second floor in a two story private dwelling. Tower Ladder 142 gave 10-75 just after 1 a.m. on Feburary 28, 2015.

APPARATUS IN ACTION If you have photos you would like to see in our Apparatus in Action feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.

Engine 42 is a 2016 KME engine

JOHN HOPPER

1ST Responder Newspaper - FDNY

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June, 2015

ALLEN EPSTEIN

Truck fire in Queens

On April 15, 2015, FDNY firefighters were alerted to a fire in Queens. Engine 291 and Ladder 140 arrived to find a truck fire. Crews quickly used one hose line to extinguish the fire.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

RICHARD YORK

Battalion 58 uses all hands for fire in Canarsie, Brooklyn Battalion 58 used all hands at Box 2181 for fire on the roof of a two family dwelling at 1407 East 98th Street off Ave M in Canarsie, Brooklyn on March 25th.

TOOLS OF THE TRADE RICHARD YORK

Vehicle overturns in Queens

If you have photos you would like to see in our “Tools Of the Trade� feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.

Squad 270 and Ladder 126 responded to Atlantic Avenue and 125th Street on the report of an overturned vehicle with a possible pin on March 28th. The injured victim had already self-extricated on arrival. Rescue 4 was returned to service.

The vehicle apparently traveling at a high rate of speed lost control and struck a parked tractor trailer, overturning the vehicle in the middle of the street.

APPARATUS IN ACTION If you have photos you would like to see in our Apparatus in Action feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.

RICHARD YORK

Division 15 from Brooklyn working at a recent ship fire

STEVE WHITE

The West Hamilton Beach Volunteer Fire Department is located in the southern Queens part of New York City. They respond to fire incidents as well as medical calls as a supplement to the cities emergency fleet. This FDNY Street pull box was removed from service and replaced with a updated Emergency Response System box. The box takes home in the departments break room sheltering a department telephone.

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Vehicle News

This Ferrara rear mount aerial ladder will be used to tour FDNY Squad 61 has been assigned a 2015 Freight- The FDNY Rebreather Operations has been assigned a the city during the FDNY's 150th anniversary. liner/Ferrara support unit.

2015 Ford F-350.

RON JEFFERS

RON JEFFERS

RON JEFFERS

The FDNY Mask Service Unit has received three new FDNY Engine Co. 70 placed into service a 2015 KME The FDNY has accepted delivery of several 2015 FreightFreightliner/Hackney/Seagrave units.

2000-gpm/500-gwt pumper. liner/Seagrave 1000-gallon foam tenders.

RON JEFFERS

RON JEFFERS

RON JEFFERS

FDNY Ladder Co. 39 operates a new Seagrave 100-foot tractor drawn aerial ladder.

RON JEFFERS

ALLEN EPSTEIN

Fire in a Brooklyn three brick

RON JEFFERS

FDNY Ladder Co. 106 has been assigned a 2013 Seagrave 100-foot TDA.

On April 13, 2015, FDNY firefighters were dispatched to a fire in a three brick at Suydam Street and Irving Avenue in Brooklyn. Crews found fire on the first floor with extension to the second floor. Two lines were used to extinguish the fire.

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ALLEN EPSTEIN

Two alarms needed in Queens On April 12, 2015, FDNY firefighters were dispatched to a fire at 160 Street and 84 Drive in Queens. Crews arrived to find fire in a three brick private home with fire on the second floor, extending to the third floor and attic. Five hose lines and one tower ladder were used to extinguish the fire.

FDNY Commissioner Nigro and EMS Chief Booth

JEFF CRIANZA

FDNY hosts first city-wide open house On May 2nd, the FDNY celebrated the 150th anniversary of the department with its first-ever citywide open house program. More than 200 firehouses and EMS stations opened their doors to the public from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Fire Commissioner Daniel A. Nigro attended Open House events at EMS Station 27 in the Bronx at 11 a.m.

For a century and a half, FDNY members have risked their lives bravely protecting life and

JUMP TO FILE #050315100 property in our city–an enduring commitment steeped in pride and tradition,” said Fire Commissioner Nigro.

“That tradition of service is devoted to the people of our great city and we invited them all–every New Yorker–to join us in this historic celebration. We want them to come and meet the men and

women who serve them with selfless dedication.”

Throughout the day, firefighters, paramedics and EMTs educated the public about fire and life safety, conducting demonstrations, discussing the department’s storied history, and offering tours of FDNY apparatus (engines, ladders and ambulances).

- JEFF CRIANZA

WHERE ARE THEY NOW? If you have photos you would like to see in our Where are they Now? feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.

ALLEN EPSTEIN

Fire in the walls of a two story On April 20, 2015, FDNY crews responded to 59 Street and Grand Avenue for a call of fire. Firefighters arrived to find fire in the walls of a commercial with a second floor apartment.

One hose line was used to extinguish the fire. Units opened the roof and checked the cockloft for extension.

RON JEFFERS

Former FDNY Rescue 4's 1980 Mack/Pierce apparatus currently runs as Old Forge, PA, Rescue 93, with a primary duty of swift-water rescue. The rig sports a Rescue 4 logo on the truck's box.

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NEW YORK’S EMERGENCY SERVICES To see your photos in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com, email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com or mail them to 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore Street. New Windsor, NY 12553,

JOHN HOPPER

Congratulations to the FDNY dispatchers who were honored at today's Dispatcher Recognition Ceremony.

FDNY

Quick knock in Bronx On April 14th, Bronx companies turned out to 716 East 178th Street at Crotona Avenue for a report of a fire in the basement and first floor. Battalion 18 transmitted a 10-75 for a fire on the first floor of a three story 20x60 private dwelling, All hands were put work and an additional engine and truck (E48/TL31) were requested. The fire was located in the walls between the basement and the first floor with slight extension to the second floor and quickly knocked down. The fire was placed under control approximately 25 minutes later.

An red Cross Volunteer, EMS Lt Ralph Franco, Bx Boro President Ruben Diaz and EMS Officers President Vincent Variale JEFF CRIANZA

ALLEN EPSTEIN

Overturn in Ridgewood The officers of EMS Bn 27

JEFF CRIANZA

On April 23, 2015, Engine 291 and Ladder 140 were dispatched to an overturned vehicle at Harman Street and Grandview Avenue in Queens. According to reports, the female driver hit three parked cars and overturned. She was removed from the vehicle and transported to a local hospital for treatment. The cause of the accident is under investigation.

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RICHARD YORK

FDNY rushes to aid of NYPD police officers in an accident in Queens In Queens at Box 5270, firefighters of Engine 308, Tower Ladder 142 and Battalion 51 rushed to the aid of injured police officers involved in an accident shortly after midnight on March 28th. Tower Ladder 142 used Hurst tools to remove the vehicle's B-Pillar and drivers seat in order to safely extricate the officer in the passenger side. EMT's treated and transported the officers, who are were listed in stable condition. The accident occurred on Lefferts Blvd and 109th Ave in Ozone Park, Queens.

RICHARD YORK

Absence of smoke detectors at fatal second alarm fire In Midwood, Brooklyn Battalion 33 transmitted a second alarm on Box 3984 for fire on two floors of a private dwelling at 3371 Bedford Ave between Ave L and Ave M in the Midwood section of Brooklyn.

A total of seven children were removed from the fire, all of which

JUMP TO FILE #042115102 were pronounced DOA at the hospital.

An additional child and her mother, who had jumped from the

second floor window were listed in critical condition.

There were no smoke detectors located on either of the floors which had fire.

-RICHARD YORK

ALLEN EPSTEIN

Rubbish fire at vacant movie house On May 1, 2015, FDNY firefighters were dispatched for a fire at the movie house located at Madison Street and Cypress Avenue. Crews arrived to find a rubbish fire on the outside of the building with moderate smoke. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

RICHARD YORK

E314 and TL158 respond to overturned vehicle in Springfield Gardens Engine 314 and Tower Ladder 158 were turned out for an MVA with a possible pin on Brookville Blvd at 147th Avenue on March 30t. Upon arrival, they had an overturned vehicle but no pin. Rescue 4 was returned to service. EMS treated and transported at least three patients involved.

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