1st Responder Long Island December Edition

This section is exclusively dedicated to coverage of Long Island emergency services PUBLISHING SINCE 1993

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NEWS

DECEMBER, 2017

SABELLA/ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY

Brookhaven, NY - On the evening of October 10th just after 10:00 P.M., Brookhaven Firefighter Peter DiPinto was at his home when he heard a sound that he thought was a crash. Acting on his instincts, DiPinto went to investigate what he heard.

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December, 2017

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EVAN ROLLA - ROLLA'S IMAGES

JOHN WALTHERS / SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS

Brookhaven Supervisor Ed Romaine and members of the Patchogue FD Brush Truck Commitee (in yellow) are joined By Chief Joe Arabia and Legislator Calarco for the presentation of proclamations from the town and county.

Patchogue FD Hosts 5th Annual Brush Truck Training Competition Ridge, NY - Firefighting is not just about responding to the calls.

It's also about being prepared for those calls to action. The Patchogue Volunteer Fire Department knows that very well and that's why they began the Brush Truck Training Competition, which was held recently at the Brookhaven Town Volunteer Firemen's park in Ridge.

This year, the Brush Truck Training Competition celebrated five years of promoting excellence and training to area departments on Long Island.

Though it is a competition and trophies are awarded for each event as well as overall perform-

JUMP TO FILE #100617108 ance, the competition is also used to help the firefighters hone their skills in different scenarios related to brush fires, which can be very common on Long Island in the warmer weather months.

This year’s event had approximately nine teams participate, coming from as far East as North Sea. Departments competed in five events to determine who the 2017 “King of the Woods” would be.

The teams that finished in the top three were Manorville Team 1

who placed 3rd, North Sea who placed 2nd, and Yaphank Team 1 claimed the "King of the Woods" title. Awards were also presented for "Farthest Travel," which went to North Sea, and "Best Appearing," which was awarded to firsttime entry, Wading River FD. A special thanks to the Town of Brookhaven under the direction of Supervisor Ed Romaine for allowing the park's use. Also to County Legislator Rob Calarco, whose district includes the Patchogue FD, for attending the opening ceremony for the event.

- JOHN WALTHERS

EVAN ROLLA - ROLLA'S IMAGES

Puppy Rescued by Brentwood Firefighters Brentwood, NY - During the afternoon hours of Sunday, October 8th, the Brentwood Fire Department, Brentwood Legion Ambulance and Suffolk County Police were dispatched to a reported motor vehicle accident with heavy rescue at the intersection of College Road and Wicks Road. Upon arrival, Chief Boyle [3-2-31] discovered a two-car accident with all occupants out of the vehicle, with the exception of a dog still trapped in the backseat. Firefighters from R18 used hydraulic equipment to free the puppy. The dog was unharmed and returned to its owner. All other occupants were taken to an area hospital with minor injuries.

JOHN WALTHERS / SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS

Wading River Probationary FF Jameson Rockowitz stretches the line and takes on some targets in the woods.

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December, 2017

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December, 2017

ADVERTISER

INDEX

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FUTURE 1st RESPONDERS

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

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Safety & Environmental

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Task Force Tips

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CORPORATE INFORMATION

1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New York edition - Vol. 18 No. 12 - is published monthly, 12 times a year for $36 per year by Belsito Communications, Inc., 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553.

Periodicals Postage Paid at Newburgh, NY and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. No financial responsibility is assumed by this newspaper to publish a display, classified, or legal ad or for typographical errors except of reprinting that part of the ad which was omitted or in error. Omissions or errors must be brought to the attention of the newspaper during the same month of publication.

JOHN WALTHERS / SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS

Nick Verni, son of Brookhaven FD Captain Anthony Verni, is seen here with this Grandpa, Commissioner Michael J. Verni, supervising demonstrations at a recent open house, (though Nick did seem like he was ready to start giving orders!).

845-534-7500• (fax) 845-534-0055 Info@belsito.com

PUBLICATION CONTENT Notice: The advertisements, articles, and letters contained in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of 1st Responder Inc. and Belsito Communications, Inc. Advertisements are sold pursuant to the “space available” and corresponding fee schedule. The mere fact that advertisements are contained in this publication does not express nor imply that 1st Responder Inc. and Belsito Communications, Inc. vouches for the credibility of the claims made in the advertisements or the representations expressed or implied in them.

Additional news

Dr. Augustus Mantia JOHN WALTHERS / SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS

This young man decided to come to Brookhaven's open house in some turnout gear and by the looks of how he handles a fire hose, he is ready to be a firefighter!

PATCH OF THE MONTH

If you have photos you would like to see in our “Patch of the Month” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

from Long Island can be found on our website at www.1rbn.com This patch is from the Roosevelt FD in Nassau County, Long Island.

TODD BENDER

PROVIDED

Emergency Medical Responder Recognized in Suffolk County Nesconset, NY - Augustus G. Mantia, M.D., a practicing physician in Nesconset, New York was appointed to the Suffolk County Human Rights Commission as an Associate Professor of Medicine, Family Practice and Psychiatry at Stony Brook University.

Dr. Mantia had his own private practice in Smithtown, which served the community for over 30 years. He is a strong advocate of equality within the healthcare system. In 2005, Dr. Mantia, in conjunction with Stony Brook University and the First Baptist Church in Riverhead, received a grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation for Project Care, a program to develop computer home monitoring for chronic medical conditions. Dr. Mantia was also appointed to the New York State Department of Health’s Medicaid Advisory Committee by the New York State Senate and Governor George Pataki.

Dr. Mantia volunteers his time to serve his community as Fire Surgeon at the Hauppauge Fire Department and the District Medical Director at the St. James Fire Department, who oversees all medical response and protocols for the Emergency Medical Teams and defibrillator programs.

JUMP TO FILE #102517121 In July 2008, Dr. Mantia was appointed as a Deputy Fire Coordinator-Medical Doctor for the County of Suffolk. Also, in 2008 he was selected for appointment to the position of Critical Incident Police Surgeon for the Suffolk County Police Department. His appointment followed successful completion of critical training in FEMA Incident Management, Weapons of Mass Destruction, Police Department field operations and protocols, and certification as the Field Physician by the Suffolk County Department of Health Division of EMS. Dr. Mantia has been acknowledged as a “Hometown Humanitarian” by the Suffolk County Legislature and was named the 2012 Physician of Excellence by the Suffolk Regional Emergency Medical Services Council. Dr. Mantia also serves as Commissioner of the Human Rights Commission, and in addition chairs the health committee.

- ROSEANN MARIANI

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December, 2017

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Chimney Fire Extends into Home in Mastic Mastic, NY - On the morning of October 4th, the Mastic Fire Department was activated for a report of a structure fire at 29 Tonopan Street. Additional info was provided by county that smoke was reported to be coming from the roof.

Lieutenant Steve Januszkiewicz was JUMP TO FILE# first to arrive on the 100617110 scene and advised that he had smoke coming from the roof. It was determined that a chimney fire had extended into the home. Lt. Januszkiewicz requested that the Working Fire be transmitted for the incident.

Upon arrival, crews went to work stretching a line into the home as well as removing some of the siding and flashing of the house.

The fire was quickly contained thanks to the efforts of the Mastic FD as well as their mutual aid departments. There was overhaul that needed to be done to make sure that all extension spots were put out and no risk of reigniting existed.

Mutual aid was provided by Brookhaven, Center Moriches and Ridge FD's. Mastic Ambulance was also on scene to provide firefighter rehab. The Town of Brookhaven Fire Marshal was called to the scene to investigate.

- JOHN WALTHERS

JOHN WALTHERS / SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS

Vehicle News

The East Farmingdale Volunteer Fire Co. took delivery of a 2017 Pierce Impel Heavy Rescue designated as 1-5-3.

The vehicle features a Hale AP50 PTO Pump, 500-gallon water tank and an Onan 15-KW generator.

BOB VACCARO

The Kings Park Fire Department took delivery of two Pierce Impel Pumpers. Both have 1500-GPM pumps with 750-gallon water tanks. Pictured is Unit 4-1-1.

BOB VACCARO

BOB VACCARO

The Mount Sinai Fire Department put into service two unique vehicles, including this 2016 Pierce Enforcer/PUC that has a 1500-GPM pump with a 750-gallon water tank.

BOB VACCARO

The Mount Sinai FD put into service two unique vehicles, including this 2017 Firematic/BRAT built on a Ford F-550 chassis with a Hale 300-GPM pump and a 300-gallon water tank that also serves as a mini rescue.

BOB VACCARO

The Kings Park Fire Department took delivery of two Pierce Impel Pumpers. Both have 1500-GPM pumps with 750-gallon water tanks. Pictured is Unit 4-1-4.

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December, 2017

1ST Responder Newspaper - LI

BUDDY SHOTS

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

JOHN WALTHERS / SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS

Brookhaven Firefighters took a moment during their recent open house to take a quick photo for 1st Responder News. (Back Row): Jesse Alaimo, Chris Perry, Chris Martin & John Hodge. (Front Row): Probationary FF Brendan Arellano.

SABELLA/ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY

Two Ejected and Four Others Hurt After Head-On Crash

Middle Island, NY - On October 16th just after 10:00 P.M., five cars were involved in an accident after two cars collided head-on, on Middle Cty. Road and Sweezy Road. Two people were ejected and four others were injured after a chain reaction occurred involving three more cars after the initial two cars collided. Ambulances from Middle Island Ridge, Coram and Selden transported all patients to several hospitals for treatment while firefighters secured all the cars.

WHERE ARE THEY NOW? TONY CRUZ

Members of Huntington Community First Aid Squad posing for a buddy shot! (L to R): Lauren Aviles, Chief Dispatcher Manny Aviles, and Carol Nucci.

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 Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

JOHN WALTHERS / SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS

Wading River Probationary FF Jameson Rockowitz, Captain Kevin Berg & Probationary FF James Brady show off their trophy from a recent brush truck competition.

FRANK ROBINSON

Schuylkill Haven, Pennsylvania Hose 2 now operates this 1977 Mack CF Aerialscope. The truck once ran with the Massapequa Fire Department in Nassau County, Long Island.

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WORKING FACES

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December, 2017

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Terryville chiefs meet in a stairwell at a recent alarm in Port Jefferson.

SABELLA/ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY

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Mastic Firefighter Anthony Paulette at a working fire on October 4th.

JOHN WALTHERS / SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS

SABELLA/ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY

Bicyclist Hurt in Centereach Hit and Run

Centereach, NY - Just after midnight on October 17th, a bicyclist was struck and the driver who hit him fled the scene. The Centereach Fire Department ambulance transported the patient to Stony Brook University Hospital for treatment of his injuries.

SABELLA/ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY

Car Spins Twice, Crashes into Guardrail on LIE

Medford, NY - On October 15th, Medford Firefighters and Medford Volunteer Ambulance personnel responded to a one-car accident on the Long Island Expressway just after midnight.

The accident occurred when the driver tried to avoid a racoon that crossed the expressway in front of her, causing her to lose control and spin twice before smashing head first into a guardrail. The driver was taken to Brookhaven Hospital for treatment.

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December, 2017

1ST Responder Newspaper - LI

SABELLA/ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY

Smell of Gas Evacuates All from McDonalds Farmingville, NY - On October 15th just after 10:00 P.M., four people became sick after being subjected to a heavy smell of gas throughout the building of a McDonalds. Firefighters wearing SCBA entered the establishment to check for the source. Farmingville ambulance personnel checked out a total of nine people, with four of them being transported for complaints of nausea and dizziness. Firefighters located the source as a puddle of gas outside the drive-up window. The odor was removed with speedy dry and fans, and all units took up within an hour of activation.

JOHN WALTHERS / SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS

Kids exiting the demonstration trailer after going through a smoke room.

Eastport FD Hosts Fire Prevention Open House with Pasta Dinner Eastport, NY - On Friday, October 13th, the Eastport Fire Department in Suffolk County's 5th Division invited members of the community out for an evening of Fire Prevention. The department held its annual open house, which also included a pasta dinner for attendees.

During the open house, members of the community were able to see the firehouse and talk to the men and women of the Eastport Fire Department. They were also able to go on the firetrucks and see the tools

JUMP TO FILE #101817100 that members use on a daily basis in the field. State fire was also on hand with a special exhibit where attendees were taught how to use a fire extinguisher safely before being allowed to put out a fully controlled fire. Suffolk Sheriffs and Southampton Town Police were on hand with safety displays.

Before a raffle was held for the children to win toys, the Department

held a special demonstration for the community. The Department was able to set a car on fire in a controlled location on the property.

Chief of Department Mark Yakaboski then called in an engine crew that was put to work to demonstrate putting out a vehicle fire. The community especially enjoyed this part of the night seeing their volunteers in action.

A great night was had by all the community members who came out!

- JOHN WALTHERS

ANTIQUE APPARATUS

If you have photos for “Antique Apparatus,� please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

SABELLA/ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY

Bedroom Fire Reported in Port Jefferson Nursing Center Port Jefferson, NY - On Saturday night, October 14th, firefighters from Port Jefferson and Terryville Fire Departments, along with Port Jefferson Vol. Ambulance Company responded to the Waters Edge Nursing Center on Dark Hollowed Rd. for a reported fire in a resident's room. First arriving units were met with a smoke condition coming from a room. Firefighters opened up a wall, extinguished a small electrical fire and ejected the smoke from the building. It was reported that two residents were transported to a local hospital. All units took up about 45 minutes into the alarm.

JOHN WALTHERS / SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS

This 1931 Day Elder with a Peter Pirsch Body served the Eastport Fire District from 1931-1962. The unit has a 600-GPM pump and 2,000-feet of two-and-a-half inch hose bed. The unit was most recently restored in 2013 as a token of appreciation to the members for their 100 years of dedicated service to the communities of Eastport, Remsenburg and Speonk.

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Halesite F.D.'s 1924 Ahrens Fox drafting water.

December, 2017

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RUSSELL CURLEY

JOHN WALTHERS / SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS

Brookhaven firefighters work on extricating a "driver" during a demonstration at their open house.

North Sea F.D.'s 1921 Dodge Hose Wagon.

Southampton F.D.'s 1941 Mack Pumper.

RUSSELL CURLEY

RUSSELL CURLEY

Brookhaven Fire Department Hosts Fully Loaded Fire Prevention Day Shirley, NY - On Sunday, October 15th, the Brookhaven Fire Department ended fire prevention week by holding their annual fire prevention open house at Station 1 in Shirley. The event was a day filled with fun for the whole family. For the truck enthusiasts, the department had their own antique on hand as well as a 1942 Ahrens Fox Piston Pumper, which is privately owned under the name Shady Grove Antique Fire Department.

Kids were also able to tour the Suffolk County All Hazards and Smoke trailer where they learned about fires and smoke, and how to

JUMP TO FILE #102017101 escape a bedroom if there was ever a fire in the house. The kids were also able to try out fire hoses.

At around 11:30 A.M., the department began doing a series of demonstrations. The first of the three demonstrations was directed toward stove safety with a stove fire. Probationary Firefighter Thomas Shevlin demonstrated how to use a fire extinguisher to put out a stove fire.

Next, the crew of Rescue 3 went to work demonstrating how the

Hurst tools work. This was done by simulating a vehicle extrication on the department's training pad. The rescue crew cut the doors and the roof off of the car and then did a dash displacement to free the “driver".

This led into the final demo, which was a car fire using the same vehicle. Firefighters were able to make a quick attack of the fully involved auto.

A great time was had by the community as well as the firefighters who got to interact with the community.

- JOHN WALTHERS

RUSSELL CURLEY

Hampton Bays F.D.'s 1940 Dy-Elder Hose Wagon.

Southampton FD Holds 36th Annual Muster Southampton, NY - The 36th annual Southampton Fire Department Muster was held on September 9, 2017.

JOHN WALTHERS / SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS

Probationary FF Tom Shevlin demonstrates how to put out a stove fire.

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December, 2017

1ST Responder Newspaper - LI

Car Fire Impinges on Two Homes in Farmingville Farmingville, NY - A late night car fire in the driveway of 141 Bluepoint Rd. on October 16th was within 15feet of two homes when firefighters arrived. Firefighters pulled two lines and JUMP TO FILE# went to work 102517100 knocking down the flames while protecting the two homes, keeping the damage to the homes to just melted siding.

The fire was stubborn to put out and the car ended up being a total loss. SCPD Arson Squad and Brookhaven Fire Marshals responded to the scene.

- CHRIS SABELLA

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Firefighters battle a fully involved auto at 141 Bluepoint Rd. in Farmingville.

SABELLA/ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY

Brookhaven Firefighter Saves Driver Moments Before Train Destroys Car Brookhaven, NY - On the evening of October 10th just after 10:00 P.M., Brookhaven Firefighter Peter DiPinto was at his home when he heard a sound that he thought was a crash. Acting on his instincts, DiPinto JUMP TO FILE # went to investigate 101317103 what he heard.

He would soon arrive at the Long Island Railroad Crossing at Montauk Highway and Arthur Avenue to find a two-car MVA. However, it was not your ordinary MVA, as one of the vehicles was stuck on the crossing and still occupied.

Firefighter DiPinto immediately began working to get the occupant out of the vehicle as the train gates began to come down, alerting of a possible approaching train. DiPinto was able to successfully get the driver to safety and just seconds later, the vehicle was struck by the oncoming train and thrown to the side of the tracks.

DiPinto’s sons, Peter DiPinto Jr. and Dan DiPinto, both assistant chiefs of the Brookhaven Fire Department, arrived shortly after and advised that the occupants were out of the vehicles.

Members of the Brookhaven FD made sure that the scene was secured and the MTA PD arrived on the scene as well to secure the location. One person was transported from the accident scene to Brookhaven Memorial Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

There is no doubt that had DiPinto not acted on his instincts and 30 years of experience as a volunteer firefighter to get the driver out like he did, there could have been a much worse outcome.

But thanks to Firefighter Peter DiPinto’s quick thinking, the driver was able to go home safely to her family.

Author's Note: Some info for this story came from Brookhaven FD Press Release and Suffolk PD PIO. - JOHN WALTHERS

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Brookhaven Firefighter Peter DiPinto, Sr.

COURTESY OF BROOKHAVEN FD

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December, 2017

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