1st Responder New York August Edition

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AUGUST, 2015

SEVEN ALARM BLAZE STRIKES ABANDONED PSYCHIATRIC CENTER

JEFFERY STEDNER/ORANGE AND ROCKLAND COUNTY FIRE

Middletown, Orange County, NY - At 5:55 a.m. on Sunday, July 12th, the Middletown Fire Department was dispatched for a smoke investigation in the abandoned main building of the old Middletown Psychiatric Center at 141 Monhagan Avenue.

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August, 2015

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

3-3-3 in historic Rochester church Rochester, NY. The Rochester Fire Department was dispatched at 1:00 a.m. on June 26th for multiple reports of a church on fire.

The first arriving company found fire on the C side and declared a working fire. This secured the channel and instituted a restricted alarm.

The first arriv- JUMP TO FILE# ing chief struck a 062615102 second alarm due to the size of the structure.

Companies started to make progress on the single story addition in the rear when the fire broke through the roof of the sanctuary.

After a water main break was discovered, a third alarm was called to support the master stream operations on all sides in addition to the three quints using elevated master streams.

The owner of the building was on scene and was more concerned for the building to the east, which is historic as well. It is reported that President Rutherford B. Hayes had stayed there and a new roof was just put on last year.

Marvin Maye, who owns the building with his wife for the last four years, is no stranger to press over the once German church built in 1870. They bought the property and the abandoned dwelling to the west to raze for a Dollar General store which was highly contested by preservation societies and boards.

Last night, he stated that "they want to save the building, but no one has the money to do it". He later added that the building is frequently broken into even though it has red placards posted on it. He also said that there is asbestos in the building and the floors are in bad shape.

The third alarm brought more than 65 firefighters and support staff to the scene and at least 11 pieces of equipment. The city

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Minor fire under investigation in Troy An alarm of fire was transmitted for the the area of 103rd St. and Second Avenue in the City of Troy. On arrival, crews had a minor fire in the rear of the structure of the home and stretched one hand line to the rear to immediately put it out.

Crews called the Signal 20 on it and asked for a battalion chief to the scene to investigate. The cause of the fire has no yet been determined.

JOHN SPAULDING

Eventually multiple master streams were needed to bring the conflagration under control.

brought in mutual aid from county companies to cover other calls for service.

One firefighter was treated for heat exhaustion. No other injuries or damage was reported. The structure will now have to be razed according to Deputy Chief Stadler.

The fire took four hours to control. Every hydrant in a three block area was being used and thousands of feet of hose lined the street as the sun started to come up

in the early hours.

There were separate reports of a man running from the building prior to the calls to 911.

The Rochester Arson Task Force is investigating the cause and origin and leads provided to them.

The owner confirmed that there were no utilities to the building in recent years.

- JOHN SPAULDING

STILL IN SERVICE

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

DAVID KAZMIERCZAK

Kitchen fire for Buffalo firefighters

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RON JEFFERS

Buffalo, NY. Firefighters of the 4th Battalion 3rd Platoon were called out to a kitchen fire at 97 Locust St. in Buffalo's Medical Corridor on Tuesday evening, July 7, 2015. This alarm came in as companies were battling a fire at 34 Clark St. Firefighters had a kitchen fire that extended into the cupboards. No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation. The fire was handled with two engines a ladder and the 4th Battalion Chief.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

PAGE 3

August, 2015

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August, 2015

Seven alarm blaze strikes abandoned psychiatric center

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Middletown, Orange County, NY. At 5:55 a.m. on Sunday, July 12th, the Middletown Fire Department was dispatched for a smoke investigation in the abandoned main building of the old Middletown Psychiatric Center JUMP TO FILE # at 141 Monhagan 071415102 Avenue.

Firefighters arrived to find fire throughout the multi-story vacant building. Multiple mutual aid agencies were immediately requested by command, eventually bringing in hundreds of firefighters from dozens of departments throughout Orange and Sullivan Counties.

The firefight was kept to exterior operations due to the condition of the building as well as limited water in the area. Multiple large lines and tower ladders operated for hours to bring the tough blaze under control. Crews also faced very warm weather with temperatures well into the 80's and high humidity.

Although the building was abandoned for decades, the building contained old files and records as well as medical equipment, beds, desks, caskets, etc.

By the late afternoon hours, a seventh alarm was needed to rotate personnel and bring in additional tankers.

In addition to the entire Middletown Fire Department, mutual

aid assisted from Mechanicstown, Silver Lake, Circleville, Howells, Otisville, Pocatello, Goshen, Slate Hill, Chester, Bloomingburg, Bullville, Montgomery and Unionville.

Representatives from the Middletown Fire Department stated on their Facebook page that they "would like to thank all the mutual

JEFFERY STEDNER/ORANGE AND ROCKLAND COUNTY FIRE

aid companies that assisted in the many hours of operation." The original call came in at 5:55 a.m. and were still operating at 6:22 p.m. on July 12.

The building was deemed a total loss and an official cause has yet to be determined. According to reports, utilities to the building were terminated years ago, but

squatters have been known to frequent the area.

The center, which opened in 1874, is also known for "urban exploration," as many have explored the old buildings to take photos and investigate "hauntings".

- HEATHER PILLSWORTH

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NICK ELIA/ORANGE AND ROCKLAND COUNTY FIRE

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

August, 2015

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August, 2015

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1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

In memory of those who gave all 1st Responder Newspaper honors and remembers emergency responders lost in the line of duty

Pennsylvania: Curtis E. Nordsick, 71 Rank: Fire Police Lieutenant Incident Date: April 19, 2015 Death Date: April 19, 2015 Fire Department: Wrightsville Steam Engine & Hose Company #1 Initial Summary: Fire Police Lieutenant Nordsick responded to the scene of a homicide to assist with traffic control and scene safety. Nordsick reportedly returned to the fire station and, after complaining that he wasn’t feeling well, collapsed. Lieutenant Nordsick was immediately attended to in the fire house and then transported to Memorial Hospital where he passed away. The nature and cause of fatal injury is still to be determined.

Incident Date: May 6, 2015 Death Date: May 6, 2015 Fire Department: Washington DC Fire Department Initial Summary: While working at the scene of a high rise apartment building fire, Lieutenant McRae went into cardiac arrest and collapsed. According to media reports, McRae, in charge of the first due engine and crew, had just exited the structure after fighting the fire in a 9th floor apartment for 50 minutes. Lieutenant McRae was transported to the Washington Hospital Center where he was pronounced dead. Two others, including one firefighter, suffered non-life threatening injuries in the incident which remains under investigation by authorities.

Montana: Larry Wayne Lawhorn, 60 Rank: Engineer/Firefighter Incident Date: May 3, 2015 Death Date: May 3, 2015 Fire Department: Orchard Farm Fire Protection District Initial Summary: Engineer-Firefighter Lawhorn was responding to a mutual aid structure fire when the fire department tanker he was driving left the roadway and came to a rest in a field. Firefighter Lawhorn, who was alone in the vehicle, was found by other emergency responders as they were returning from the fire call. Resuscitative efforts were attempted but Lawhorn was pronounced dead at the scene from a nature and cause of fatal injury still to be determined.

Oklahoma: Jason Farley, 46 Rank: Captain Incident Date: May 23, 2015 Death Date: May 24, 2015 Fire Department: Claremore Fire Department Initial Summary: At 2230hrs on 05/23/2015, the Claremore Fire Department was called to rescue about 10 people caught inside of several residential units due to rising flood waters.

While assisting with the water rescue, Captain Farley was swept into a flooded storm drain where he got trapped and drowned. Captain Farley's body was recovered approximately two hours after the water rescue began. Another firefighter who was also swept into the storm drain suffered non-fatal injuries. All of the residents were rescued without injury.

Kansas: Mike Corn, 68 Rank: Training Officer/Firefighter Incident Date: April 27, 2015 Death Date: April 27, 2015 Fire Department: Conway Springs Fire Department Initial Summary: While putting on gear at the station preparing to respond to a fire call, Training Officer/Firefighter Corn collapsed. Fellow responders immediately provided medical assistance but Corn succumbed to his injury, the nature and cause of which is still to be determined.

Tennessee: Christopher Michael Blankenship, 41 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: May 3, 2015 Death Date: May 3, 2015 Fire Department: Madison County Fire Department Initial Summary: While working at the scene of a motor vehicle accident with fire, Firefighter Blankenship was seriously injured when a tree at the scene fell on top of him.

Firefighters quickly removed the tree from Blankenship and rendered medical aid. Blankenship was then transported to the Jackson-Madison County General Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

Georgia: Ricky Thurman, 54 Rank: Lieutenant Incident Date: April 24, 2015 Death Date: May 4, 2015 Fire Department: Swainsboro Fire Department Initial Summary: While operating at the scene of a structure fire on April 24, 2015 Lieutenant Thurman suddenly went into cardiac arrest. Immediate efforts to revive Lt. Thurman were successful and he was airlifted to Regents University Hospital in Augusta, Georgia where he passed away on May 4, 2015.

Pennsylvania: Timothy T. Peters, 46 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: April 30, 2015 Death Date: April 30, 2015 Fire Department: Pine Grove Hose, Hook and Ladder Fire Co. No. 1 Initial Summary: Firefighter Peters responded to a medical assistance call with his fire company on the afternoon of April 30, 2015. Later that evening at 1930hrs, Peters was stricken by an apparent heart attack at his residence. Emergency responders were summoned and treated Peters then transported him to the hospital where he succumbed to his injury.

Washington DC: Kevin McRae, 44 Rank: Lieutenant

Mississippi: Dwight Greer, 44 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: May 6, 2015 Death Date: May 6, 2015 Fire Department: Philadelphia Fire Department Initial Summary: Approximately one hour after returning to quarters from a carbon monoxide response call, Firefighter Greer suffered a cardiac related medical emergency at the station while participating in fire department mandated physical training. Greer was treated by fellow responders and transported to the hospital where he succumbed to his injury.

Maine: David Bourget, 59 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: May 23, 2015 Death Date: May 23, 2015 Fire Department: Phippsburg Fire Department Initial Summary: At 1900hrs, several members of the Phippsburg Fire Department, including Firefighter Bourget, gathered at the station in preparation to work a fireworks display standby detail. At 1940hrs, the fire department members started to leave the station to work the detail. Firefighter Bourget was driving a tanker truck, but only got to the station’s driveway apron when he suddenly fell ill. Firefighter Bourget was treated by paramedics at the scene and transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.

The nature and cause of fatal injury is still to be reported.

Tennessee: Terrance Morgan Pryor, 48 Rank: Lieutenant Incident Date: May 25, 2015 Death Date: May 25, 2015 Fire Department: Memphis Fire Department Initial Summary: Several hours after responding to the last emergency call of his shift, Lieutenant Pryor became ill and passed away at his residence. The nature and cause of fatal injury is still to be reported.

Wisconsin: Dale J. Wege, 59 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: May 31, 2015 Death Date: June 1, 2015 Fire Department: Pine Lake Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: Firefighter Wege responded to an emergency medical call at 1812hrs on May 31st. The following day at 1556hrs, Wege was found collapsed at home without a pulse and not breathing. Firefighter Wege was treated by fellow responders and transported to St. Mary’s Hospital in Rhinelander where he was pronounced deceased at 1645hrs.

The nature and cause and fatal injury are still to be determined..

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August, 2015

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1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

Firefighters honored for heroic actions When Jeanne Lent and Jessica Bugbee arrived to the scene of a motor vehicle accident last year, they found a mangled car on a train track near the Fort Montgomery (N.Y.) Marina.

It had been hit by a freight train and was 350 feet inside a tunnel. Inside the car, a woman in JUMP TO FILE # a 50s was uncon- 062215124 scious.

Lent and Bugbee quickly sprung into action, trying to save the victim of the horrific crash. The woman could have easily died at the scene, but Lent and Bugbee’s heroic actions saved her that day.

She died weeks later, succumbing to her injuries. According to authorities, the woman intentionally parked the car on the train tracks, located near historic West Point, that day as a way to take her own life.

“It was a rough situation all around,” said Lent, who along with Bugbee, serves as a volunteer with the Highland Falls Fire Department.

“We did all we could do to save her. That’s really what it’s all about. We just want to try to help people.”

For their efforts on that day and year-round, The Hudson Valley Volunteer Fireman’s Association (HVVFA) recently named Lent and Bugbee their Firefighters of the Year.

The pair were honored in Lake George on June 19.

“It’s definitely an honor,” said Bugbee, 33, a U.S. Army Reservist, who has served with the Fort Montgomery Fire Department for two years.

“But it’s more for the entire department. I couldn’t do this

FORT MONTGOMERY FIRE DEPARTMENT

Deputy Commissioner/Fire Coordinator Vini Tankasali, Firefighter Bugbee, Firefighter Lent and Fort Montgomery firefighters, who attending the award ceremony in Lake George.

without all of the people I serve with. I just go out there and try to do my job. In a way, it’s bittersweet. We lost a life on the train tracks that day.”

The HVVFA is an organization represented by volunteer firefighters from 16 counties (Albany, Columbia, Dutchess, Essex, Greene, Orange, Putnam, Rensselaer, Rockland, Saratoga, Schenectady, Sullivan, Ulster, Warren, Washington and Westchester). The HVVFA was organized in 1889.

There are over 600 member companies and thousands of association members. Lent, a full-time nurse, has served with the Highland Falls Fire Department for 14 years.

Her husband, Cleve, is the assistant chief with Highland Falls. Like Bugbee, Lent was honored to receive the award. However, Lent also wants to share the spotlight

with the brave men and women of the Highland Falls Fire Department.

“I appreciate the award, but that’s not what I’m looking for,” Lent said. “It’s a team thing. We all work together and play a part. I’m glad the department is being recognized.”

Deputy Commissioner/Fire Coordinator Vini Tankasali stated, “It is an honor for not only Fort Montgomery Fire Department, but for the entire Orange County Fire Service to have two of our own receive this award. The actions taken that day by both Firefighter Bugbee, Firefighter Lent and the rest of the Firefighters from Forth Montgomery that day are shining examples of what the Fire Service is all about.”

- JUSTIN RODRIGUEZ

ON THE LITER SIDE

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

PATRICK KOCH

Elderly driver with minor injuries New Paltz Fire Dept. and New Paltz Rescue Squad were called to the scene of a personal injury automobile accident on Route 32 North of New Paltz on June 16, 2015. The elderly driver had minor injuries, but required assistance in leaving the vehicle.

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1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

JOHN WALCESKY

DAVID F.KAZMIERCZAK

Damage to home near the Buffalo State campus Buffalo, NY. Firefighters of the 4th Battalion 4th Platoon were called out to battle a structure fire at 535 Grant St. near the Buffalo State campus on Tuesday, May 12, 2015. The fire started in the wall of the one and a half story frame dwelling. Damage was minimal and no injuries were reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation. Division Chief James LaMacchia was in command.

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Heavy fire puts a glow in the Rotterdam sky

The Rotterdam District 2 Fire Department responded to a reported working structure fire at 1017 Irene Street around 1 a.m. on June 19th. The first arriving chief called for the second alarm bringing South Schenectady, Carman, Fort Hunter for their FAST team and Plotterkill for rehab. Arriving crews had a heavily involved two story wood frame home. Firefighters pulled multiple hand lines to protect the exposure buildings. Crews darkened down the heavy fire with a two and a half and continued the external attack until it was deemed safe for firefighters to make entry. They were able to bring the fire under control within about a hour. The home was a total loss and fire investigators are currently investigating the cause of the fire. No injuries were reported and everyone in the home made it out safely.

DAVID F.KAZMIERCZAK

Roof collapses during blaze Buffalo, NY. Firefighters of the 3rd Battalion 1st Platoon were called out to battle a structure fire at 19 Block St. on the city's East Side on Monday afternoon, June 22, 2015. The blaze was reported as a kitchen fire. Engine Co. 31 reported smoke on the first floor and advanced a one and three quarter inch hand line. The fire extended to the second floor and the roof collapsed.

The building needed extensive overhauling. No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation. Damage was extensive. Division Chief Mike Biasillo was in command.

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August, 2015

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August, 2015

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

MEMORIAL DAY IN WASHINGTONVILLE

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HEATHER PILLSWORTH

Gowanda Special Rescue Team members and rescue boat head upstream in the Cattaraugus Creek near Versailles

Back to back swift water operations for Gowanda

HEATHER PILLSWORTH

June 24th started early for Gowanda firefighters when they were toned out for a possible structure fire on East Hill Street at 5:48ea.m. All Gowanda Equipment responded along with the three chiefs.

After a full check of the home, it appeared it may have been a lightening strike. No fire or heat was found and all units returned to quarters.

At 7:18 a.m., Gowanda was requested by the Versailles Fire Department to respond with it’s rope and swift water rescue team to Eaton Road for the recovery of a deceased male, who had fallen from a 150 foot cliff into the Cattaraugus Creek.

Plans were discussed and an inflatable rescue craft, guided by team

JUMP TO FILE #062415127 members in the water and onshore, was taken upstream from the nearest access to the creek to the scene and then used to bring the body back to a landing for other firefighters to remove from the creek bed.

Members returned to the Gowanda hall at 11:00 a.m.

At 12:05 p.m., Gowanda Fire was again toned out for a report of a female, who had been swept away in the current of the Cattaraugus Creek at the Forty Road gorge area.

A full scale rescue operation was put together with Gowanda and many other agencies including State DEC, Erie County Air One Helicopter, State Police, Catt Co, Sher-

iffs, and several mutual aid fire departments and other rescue teams.

As it turned out, the Gowanda team was able to respond with the same craft that was still fully inflated and manned by two members.

They placed it in the creek upstream from the last known location of the victim. About 300 yards down stream, in an area surround by sheer cliffs, the members spotted the woman along the shore area and brought her into the boat for about a four mile trip down stream to an area that they could remove her safely from the creek bed.

The training these members have put in really paid off in a big way on this day. No one was injured in either call.

- TIM TWICHELL

HEATHER PILLSWORTH

DAVID F.KAZMIERCZAK

Swearing in ceremony Monell Engine Company

HEATHER PILLSWORTH

On Friday, May 1, 2015, the Buffalo Fire Department swore in the second class of the largest class in the department’s history. Sixty-two new brothers and sisters of the Buffalo Fire Department had their swearing in ceremony at Erie Community College City Campus at 121 Ellicott St. Commissioner of Fire Garnel Whitfield and Mayor Byron Brown addressed and congratulated the new recruits. The Buffalo Fire Department has 592 firefighters and had 113 vacancies. This second class will be on a four day rotation. When they are off, the first class 15-01 will be on for four days. Good luck to our future brothers and sisters of the Buffalo Fire Department.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

KAREN HINKLEY

Grand Gorge joins together The Grand Gorge Fire Department "family" joined together during recent Memorial Day Parades in their home town as well as participating in neighboring Roxbury and Pratttsville events. The float entitled "The Next Generation" was filled with little "members to be."

August, 2015

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August, 2015

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

BOB KRAJICEK

New Paltz conducts drill The New Paltz Fire Department and the New Paltz Rescue Squad drilled together on June 22, 2015. The fire department's newly outfitted John Deere Gator will be used to transport patients from off-road sites to ambulance staging areas, while under medical care by the New Paltz Rescue Squad.

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Early morning Signal 30 in Latham The Latham Fire Department responded to 27 Western Ave. for a reporting structure fire on June 28th. The arriving chief had a working structure fire in a two story home, calling for the Signal 30, which brought Shaker Road, Maplewood, and Schuyler Heights to the scene. Firefighters made an aggressive interior attack into the structure and was able to save the home. The homeowners escaped with no injuries. The home sustained smoke damage and fire damage. Firefighters were on scene until the early hours of the morning conducting overhaul and investigating the cause of the fire

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

August, 2015

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August, 2015

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

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

BOB ROOT

On June 10th, the Good-Will Fire Department responded to Mid Valley Mall on Route 32 in the town for an automatic alarm.

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

FDNY Fire Boat visits Waterford

BOB ROOT

On June 25, 2015, Relief Hose Co. responded to an alarm of smoke.

A rare treat paid a visit to Waterford on Sunday, June 7, 2015.

The retired FDNY John J. Harvey fire boat came up the Hudson River with all his deck guns on and made a sight for the large crowd at the Waterford docks.

The historic fire boat runs completely by volunteers and is maintained and fueled by donations. The crew allowed the crowd of onlookers to come onto the boat and check a piece of history.

The Retired FDNY John J.

JUMP TO FILE #061015106 Harvey fire boat was built in 1931 for the fire department of New York City at the Todd shipyard in Brooklyn.

The FDNY John J. Harvey fire boat was retired after 63 years on the job and sold at auction for scrap, but she was saved by a small band of marine time preservationists. They started restoring

the fireboat to working condition.

After volunteers got the boat in running and working order after a short two years, the fire boat was brought back to service on September 11, 2001 to pump water to Ground Zero with its massive 18,000 gallons per minute pumps.

This fire boat holds a great history and volunteers work everyday to keep it running and in good shape.

- JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

NYSAFC Presidential Achievement Awards presented

Rescue Hook & Ladder Co. No. 1 in Haverstraw, NY

BOB ROOT

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Ex-Chief Owen Magee of the Hicksville Fire Department and Chief Chris DePaoli of the Irvington Fire Department were honored at the NYSAFC 109th Annual Conference & FIRE 2015 Expo This year, the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs board of di- JUMP TO FILE# rectors created a 070915106 new award category, the Presidential Achievement Award.

This award will not necessarily be presented every year, but is intended to recognize special achievement that benefits the fire service or demonstrates outstanding effort by a chief, past chief, officer, or firefighter that goes above and beyond the normal course of duty.

The award will be presented solely upon the recommendation of the NYSAFC president.

The very first Presidential Achievement Awards were presented during the General Session of the NYSAFC 109th Annual Conference & FIRE 2015 Expo at the Turning Stone Resort in Verona, NY, to Ex-Chief Owen Magee of the Hicksville Fire Department (Nassau County) and Chief Chris DePaoli of the Irvington Fire Department (Westch-

NYSAFC

Chief Chris DePaoli with NYSAFC President 2014-2015 Don Corkery

ester County).

Chris DePaoli was honored for demonstrating outstanding bravery in the face of adversity. While it is not unusual for any member of the fire service to demonstrate bravery in the line of duty at a fire or other emergency scene, the acts of DePaoli are unique and deserve special recognition.

In April of this year, he observed a man stabbing a woman near a local Metro-North train station. After radioing for police to

respond, without regard for his own safety DePaoli stopped the assailant and prevented him from continuing to injure the victim.

After being joined by off-duty Police Officer Jim Egloff, the two cornered the assailant until uniformed officers arrived. NYSAFC is proud to recognize the bravery of DePaoli and honors him with the association Presidential Achievement Award.

- NYSAFC

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

August, 2015

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August, 2015

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

HVVFA dress parade Lake George, NY. The Hudson Valley Volunteer Firemen's Association returned to Lake George for its annual convention.

On Saturday, June 20th, a day after the fun Mardi Gras parade, it was time for the more serious dress parade. 113 departments took part.

Ossining was named best overall fire unit with Fuller Road being named best overall ladies auxiliary. Mahopac had the most

JUMP TO FILE #062515101 members in the line of march.

This year marked the first time since 2011 that the convention was held in Lake George. It returns next year, then shifts to West Glens Falls, where it was held in 2013 and 2014.

- MIKE CAREY

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

The Putnam Valley Fire Department was best appearing fire unit, dress uniform, over 25 in line

FRANK ROBINSON

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Town of Athens Fire Department

Lake George Fire Department’s antique

MIKE CAREY

Wilton Fire Department

MIKE CAREY

The Ossining Fire Department was named best overall fire unit

MIKE CAREY

The Kerhonkson fire department was best appearing fire unit, dress uniform, 14-18 in line

FRANK ROBINSON

Cornell Hook & Ladder in New Baltimore, NY

MIKE CAREY

The Mahopac Fire Department had the most in line of march.

They were also named best appearing fire unit, bloused uniform, over 38 in line

MIKE CAREY

The Fuller Road Fire Department was named best appearing fire unit, bloused uniform, 27-38 in line

MIKE CAREY

MIKE CAREY

The Ossining Fire Department was named best color guard

The Stillwater Fire Department was named best appearing fire unit, dress uniform, 8-13 in line

West Albany Fire Department

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

East Greenbush was named 2nd best appearing fire unit, dress uniform, over 25 in line

MIKE CAREY

August, 2015

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

PAGE 19

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Boght conducts vehicle fire drill Colonie, NY. On Thursday, June 24th, the Boght Fire Department conducted a drill on handling vehicle fires. Members went through three rotations, taking turns handling hose operations and tools. The drill took place at the Colonie municipal training facility.

JOHN HOPPER

Second alarm blaze for Yonkers

On Wednesday, June 24, 2015 at approximately 4:00 p.m., the Yonkers Fire Companies were toned out to 145 Devoe Avenue between Hall Place and Wendover Road for a reported 10-29 (structure fire). Engine 307 arrived first due and found heavy fire in the rear of a two and a half story wood frame with no exposure problems. Battalion 2 arrived on scene and transmitted a 10-30 (all hands). The fire quickly spread up to the upper floors and cockloft. The fire was eventually knocked down with no extension in the walls or attic. Battalion 2 requested a second alarm for relief purposes, assigning Engine 303 and Tower Ladder 71. The incident was placed under control with an approximate 45 minute duration.

PAGE 20

August, 2015

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

Five alarm blaze destroys Walden building A five alarm blaze encompassed a multi-family, brick, three story building located at 3 Orange Avenue in the Village of Walden on the evening of Saturday, June 20th. The Walden Fire Department was dispatched at approximately 8:45 p.m. to the building and found heavy fire and smoke conditions.

An inter-county mutual aid response was underway in Walden with engines and trucks in action with hundreds of firefighters on the scene. The firefight is expected to go on throughout the night with extensive overhaul needed.

Current reports state that one person was entrapped, but that person has since been removed from the building. Multiple ALS and BLS EMS units were on standby or operating at the scene due to the severity of the fire. According to reports, one firefighter suffered a cardiac emergency on scene. Quick actions by paramedics is credited with saving the firefighter's life. He was transported to a local hospital in critical condition and has since stabilized.

At the 60 minute mark, five ladders were in operation with heavy fire and exterior-only operations. At the 100 minute mark,

JUMP TO FILE #062015113 multiple lines and five tower ladders were still in operation, but most of the fire was knocked down. At the two hour mark, the fire was under control with full overhaul operations commencing.

Firefighters were faced with a collapsed roof and partial collapse of the third floor. Further instability was possible as firefighters continued to battle the blaze.

Dozens of local departments were either on scene or called in as mutual aid including Maybrook, Montgomery, Middle Hope, Good-Will, Orange Lake, Pine Bush, Coldenham, City of Newburgh, Vails Gate, Bullville, Walker Valley, Plattekill, Gardiner, Wallkill, and Washingtonville Fire Departments.

The cause and origin of the fire will be under investigation by local officials.

A rekindle occurred the next day with mutual aid companies needed once again for a second alarm. ALS was expedited to the scene after a wall collapse. Two firefighters was removed with minor injuries.

CHRIS SHARON LYNN/ORANGE AND ROCKLAND FIRE

- HEATHER PILLSWORTH

GARY HEARN

MICHAEL FRANZ/ORANGE AND ROCKLAND FIRE

GARY HEARN

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

August, 2015

PAGE 21

The Prison Escapefirefighters and mutual aid

Unless you have been in hiding or working on the Donald Trump Campaign, you are well aware of the Clinton Correctional Facility (New York) "great" escape that took place on June 6, when two inmates were discovered missing during a bed check at 5:30 a.m. at the maximum security Clinton Correctional Facility. The inmates both had been convicted of murder.

Neither had been found for weeks and the story will make quite a movie. Hopefully, Hollywood will include the impact this escape has had on one area fire department.

Small towns and the firehouse.

If you grew up in a relatively small town, you would definitely remember that the firehouse was the town’s focal point. From being the social place to the place where that giant whistle, siren or horn would blow for a fire call, everyone knows where the firehouse is.

It was where parades started, boy and girl scouts had meetings, where people would go to vote and just a really cool place. In our hometown on Memorial Day, the 4th of July and others-the Alerts, Vigilants and Manhasset-Lakeville FD's were the center-and often the leaders-of activities.

So what?

So what does this have to do with murders escaping from a maximum security prison. Turns out, it has a lot to do with it. Last weekend, the Cadyville Fire Department located in Clinton County was getting ready to hold their annual and very major fundraising event. However, because of the escape and all the activity, it was cancelled. Not postponed, Cancelled.

Prisoners and a “needing fire department.

Last weekend, police dogs had picked up a scent, and potential signs emerged that the two inmates had been sleeping in a heavily wooded area approximately five miles in size. Police swarmed Cadyville, roughly five miles southeast of the Clinton Correctional Facility and set up a perimeter overnight that blocked off Cadyville, pretty much from, the rest of the world.

Because of the manhunt, the logistics and the fact that two convicted murderers were on the loose, the Cadyville Fire Department and their firefighters had no choice but to cancel their event.

The Event.

This popular field day, parade (fundraiser) was Cadyville's 50th a milestone event that they had been planning for the last year.

This is their single largest fundraiser for the year and they typically make $8,000 each year.

For the last week, the Cadyville firefighters provided 24/7 logistical support for the manhunt and operated with a law enforcement roadblock in front of the their firehouse. If this wasn't enough, several of their members and their families including three chief officers work for corrections, and federal, state, and local law enforcement. They worked 100+

plus hours in the weeks searching for the murderers.

Once again, the members of the Cadyville Fire Department focused on what's best to protect their community-not themselves. However, it takes funding to run a fire department-as we all know.

Can you, your department, your

local or association provide some mutual aid assistance?

The food is gone, The rides are cancelled and their "world famous" clam chowder won't be available.

More importantly, their funding was cut. Not by some clueless politician, but because of a genuine public safety emergency involving two es-

caped murderers, one, a cop killer.

So this request is simple, obvious but very real. Please consider sending what you can to help. $5.00, $10.00 or whatever you can send. Whatever you can afford will obviously make a huge difference in helping the Cadyville Firefighters maintain their equipment and serv-

ice.

Please send whatever you can to help: Mutual Aid: Cadyville Fire Department, PO Box 97, Cadyville NY 12918. Thank you.

- PROVIDED

PAGE 22

August, 2015

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

MUTUAL AID GORDON WREN

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Second alarm in South Troy The City of Troy responded to 22-24 Crockett Ave on June 26th, small quiet section of South Troy on the box for an alarm of fire.

On arrival, Engine 6 had a two-story wood frame structure with fire in the basement and on the first floor. Engine 6 called for the second alarm, bringing one additional engine and one additional truck company to the scene. F irefighter stretched multiple hand lines into the building and

JUMP TO FILE #062615103 drove back the fire. Firefighters opened up the side of the house to check for extension into the second floor but found none.

Firefighters were able to contain it to the first floor and basement. One of the residents was taken to the hospital for her nonlife-threatening injuries.

Bob Long

Multiple families were displaced and the home was severely damaged, but not a total loss.

The fire is under investigation at this time. No firefighters were injured on scene.

Units on scene included Engines 6, 3, 4; Trucks 1 and 2; Rescue Squad; Medic 4; and Car 2 as command.

- JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

As 1st responders, we experience a great deal of tragedy and human suffering. We all handle it differently, and most of us have access to Incident Stress De-Briefing Teams.

In addition to the human suffering, we also encounter situations involving animals/pets.

Every community has had photographs in the local newspaper or on the television of a firefighter carrying a cat or dog from a burning building or trying to get oxygen to an unconscious pet.

There is something about these scenarios that tugs at peoples' heart strings.

Years ago, former Phoenix, Arizona Fire Chief Alan Brunacini wrote a book called The Essentials of Fire Department Customer Service.

This book, if you can find it, is still a great read and very applicable today. It is also packed with humorous fire department related stories.

One of the more serious stories that I still recall after reading the book almost 20 years ago described an incident involving both a human and a pet.

One summer day in Phoenix with 114 degree temperatures (but they claim it is a dry heat), a senior citizen who happened to be diabetic, experienced low blood sugar and drove his pick-up truck into a tree.

His dog and best buddy was in the truck. The Phoenix Fire Department responded and while they were extricating and treating him, he expressed repeated concern about his dog being left in the heat. They assured him that they would take care of the dog, who was injured.

Following Chief Brunancini's policies, the Lieutenant and his company took the dog to the nearest veterinarian. They checked back later in the day and then stopped at the hospital to advise the senior gentleman that his dog was in good hands, and that the injuries were not serious. The gentleman was so happy that when he was discharged from the hospital, he wrote a letter to the editor of the local newspaper, expressing how blessed the city was to have such a great fire department and great firefighters. He also stopped at the fire house and dropped off a big box of donuts and thanked everyone personally.

Several years later a similar situation occurred, with an out-of-town family traveling on an interstate when they were cut off, forced off the road, and flipped several times. The family members and their miniature schnauzer were pretty well banged up; and in this case, it was a very cold night and two firefighters assured the family that they would take care of the dog. They also took it to the vet, who checked it out and found nothing serious. Then, the firefighters took the dog to the fire station where they took turns feeding it, walking it, and playing with it until the family was discharged three days later. The look on the face of the children when they came to pick the pup up was worth all the trouble.

It is a good idea to look for opportunities to exceed our customers' expectations as expressed in Alan Brunancini's superb book.

It also makes you feel really good about yourself and your department. Try it in your community.

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

MICHAEL KICK

Buffalo Fire Engine 3, Haz Mat 1, and the 3rd Battalion Chief. Located on Buffalo's lower East Side, this had been the busiest engine for first due fires in the city for a very long time.

August, 2015

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

PAGE 23

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Battalion Chief Dan Flaherty retires

Buffalo, NY. 6th Battalion Chief Dan Flaherty of the 2nd Platoon hung up his white helmet after 22 years of meritorious service to the Buffalo Fire Department. His father, Dan Sr., served the department as a captain. A little get together was held to celebrate his career at Doc Sullivan's on Abbott Rd. Many stories and many pints of Guinness flowed throughout the evening. Good luck Chief Flaherty on your future endeavors.

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August, 2015

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

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.

STEVEN TORBORG

Members of the Monroe, Unionville and Hurleyville Fire Departments pose with members of the East Rockaway, Rockville Centre and Lynbrook Fire Departments at the Monroe FD Wing Night Fundraiser.

JOHN HOPPER

Yonkers Fire Department Collapse Unit, a 2008 Mack TerraPro/Hackney

Brothers reunite for a common cause On Saturday, June 13th, the Monroe Fire Department hosted their Wing Night Fundraiser. This event brought together a family that was created out of disaster.

In the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy, numerous Long Island Departments were decimated by rising flood waters and power outages. Various upstate departments were dispatched to assist, thus creating one of the most unusual mutual aid assignments in New York history. Through

JUMP TO FILE #061915101 this unlikely chain of events, many bonds and friendships were forged between members that likely would never have never have met.

One such example is between the East Rockaway Fire Department on Long Island and the Orange and Sullivan County departments of Monroe, Unionville and Hurleyville.

While numerous events at each of these locations have spurned localized reunions, this fundraiser event is the first time members of all four departments have been together since Sandy.

Unlikely friends bonded in an unlikely situation, coming together to support one another. Now, isn't that what the volunteer fire service is all about?

- STEVEN TORBORG

JOHN HOPPER

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August, 2015

James E. Ferguson honored as fire prevention educator

Firefighter Ferguson being pinned by 2014 recipient Hoffman

Montgomery, NY. On the evening of June 6th, the 5th Annual Gala of the Fire Safety Education Center was held to honor James E. Ferguson of the Montgomery Fire Department as the Fire Prevention Educator of the JUMP TO FILE # Year.

070915120 The evening began with beverages and light appetizers followed by a prayer and numerous presentations. The honor guard from the Montgomery Fire Department presented the colors and everyone gathered for the honored guest. In attendance were past recipients, members of numerous Orange County fire departments, dignitaries, museum members as well as various family and friends.

Dr. William Bassett thanked many area businesses for their support as well as the support of the departments and community.

Presentations were made for Firefighter Ferguson by the 2014 recipient of the Goshen Fire Department, Frederick Michael Hoffman, Orange County Sheriff Carl DuBois, Montgomery Mayor Stephen Brescia, Montgomery Fire Department Chief Robert Pressler, FASNY President Robert McConville, Orange County Fire Coordinator Vini Tsankasali, and Montgomery Elementary School Principal Marianne Serrate.

Firefighter Ferguson received numerous certificates and gifts in honor of this new distinction.

Following the presentations, a toast celebrated his achievements.

The Orange County Firefighters Museum and Fire Safety Education Center can be found at 141 Clinton Street in Montgomery. It is open to county residents, schools, scouts, and other organizations and promotes fire safety awareness.

- HEATHER PILLSWORTH

HEATHER PILLSWORTH

Montgomery Fire Department Chief Robert Pressler

HEATHER PILLSWORTH

PAGE 26

August, 2015

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

Dan Mancuso retires from Rochester

BOB ROOT

Two car collision

Town of Newburgh, NY. On the afternoon of June 7, 2015, Winona Lake Engine Company was once again dispatched to the very busy Route 300. Firefighter arrived to find a two car MVA. All injuries appeared to be minor and crews handled all hazards at the scene. The Town of Newburgh Police Department is investigating the cause of the accident.

NYSAFC Vice President Joseph Fahd, Chief James Maxwell (2014 Chief of the Year Award recipient), honoree Chief Jeff Dygert, and NYSAFC President 2014-2015 Donald Corkery.

NYSAFC

NYSAFC 2015 New York State Career Fire Chief of the Year Award The New York State Association of Fire Chiefs is pleased to announce the 2015 recipient of its New York State Career Fire Chief of the Year Award, Chief Jeff Dygert of the City of Auburn Fire Department (Cayuga County).

The award was presented during the General Session of the NYSAFC 109th Annual Conference & FIRE 2015 Expo on June 18, 2015, at the Turning Stone Resort in Verona, NY. NYSAFC’s Career Fire Chief of the Year Award honoree is selected for demonstrating exemplary leadership, innovation, professional development, integrity, service to the public, and contributions to the fire service as a whole.

Dygert was appointed to the Auburn Fire Department in 1994 and has served as fire chief since 2011. A consummate teacher, he has demonstrated great interest in improving the fire service throughout New York state. Dygert serves as a

JUMP TO FILE #071513129 New York state fire instructor with the New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control (OFPC), delivering courses throughout Cayuga County.

An active member of NYSAFC, he serves on the association’s Fire Education Committee and as an instructor for its Hands-On Training program, working to develop future fire service members and leaders in both career and volunteer fire departments statewide.

A noted leader on and off the fireground, Dygert is also an active member of the Career Fire Chiefs of New York State where he has shared his knowledge and experience with colleagues from all regions of the state.

- NYSAFC

Someone retires from the Rochester Fire Department nearly every month with just under 500 uniformed men on the job, down from 900 at it's peak. I had the pleasure of chronicling one very well liked and well respected officers.

Back in March, I received a message from Dana.

She explained that JUMP TO FILE # her husband was 061615115 soon retiring from the Rochester Fire Department and wondered if I had images of him. I felt sad that if I did have any, they would be deep in another hard drive, or on film, and thus impossible to find. After a conversation and some paperwork with appropriate approvals, the ball was set in motion for me to ride along with him on Car 99.

She had never seen his firehouses, or trucks he rode in. She wanted to preserve a little bit of it for him to remember. I met him the first time when he was acting as Battalion 1. A little awkward jumping into a truck with someone you don't know, but we are both firefighters.

Well, my first few times with him produced nearly zero calls for service, and all were at Battalion 1 or Battalion 2. We had lots of time to get to know each other, and I had mentioned I had always wanted to document the RFD through images like Alfred R. Stone did of Rochester in the early 20th century. Dan loves history. He knows where all of the old and sold firehouses are, and which trucks were stationed there. He also has every firehouse phone number committed to memory and knows every guy and girl he works with and most of their families too.

Dan Mancuso came on the job on November 22, 1980, his dad who had started in 1951 was already working on the job. Dan retired May 30, 2015. This man loves the firehouse and the work they do.

"We take a situation, a citizen's worst day, and try to make it better for them", explains Dan. Dan has seen a lot of fires in his days, three stand out as the most intense. One on Cobb's Hill, the Genesee Club fire and the old AC Delco plant. His worst call he won't speak about, and rightly so.

Some things are best not spoken about to others.

One officer said that without Dan, that portion of the RFD would not be as strong as it is today. Dan made sure to introduce me to everyone at each firehouse and usually over dinner. He can tell yarns as good as guys twice his age. One of them, is his dad's last day on the job. A working fire on Grand Avenue, both Dan and his dad were assigned to do vertical ventilation (cutting a hole in the roof) to release the hotgasses and smoke built up inside. That was 1986.

Dan grew up on the city's

East Side, a notably different vibe and feel to the city. He grew up as a regular kind of guy. He had no idea what the fire service was about because his father left work at work. He puts his arms around rookies and new officers alike to give them guidance.

He loves his coffee, and Rey Palacios' homemade carrot cake over at Engine 5. Dan spent a good chunk of his career on Clinton Avenue at Quint and Midi 6. He started at Engine 6, but also worked at Truck 9, Engine 5, and lastly as Car 99 (the safety officer) while there he also acted as Battalion 1 or 2. In 1988, he was promoted to lieutenant, and was promoted to captain March, 2001.

Dan also sells real estate as extra income with his wife, Dana.

His daughter is currently in college to become a pharmacist. He's helped a boat load of firefighters buy there first and second homes.

During his retirement, he will continue in that field, but laments that if real estate offered a pension, he would retire from that and keep on working at the fire department, but alas, it doesn't work that way for him. He wants to be remembered for the stories he was a part of, the ones he told, and completed the tasks he was assigned and a dependable hard working firefighter, making his dad in the heavens proud of him.

As for advice for the rookies;

JOHN SPAULDING

Never stop learning. Training and learning can save you or a fellow firefighters’ life. It is essential in this business. He always critiques a fire afterwards to find the lessons that can be learned, and what went well.

He says he will miss the guys the most. One day we were looking at some of the pictures on the vintage wall at the Hudson Avenue station. He knew almost everyone pictured, and perhaps a fact or two about them.

His last night trick I rode along with him all three shifts, starting at about 4 pm. I knew he would want photos with all the guys he worked with. They were vastly important to him. The second night threw a monkey wrench into things when we responded to three separate house fires, the last one being a second alarm.

We eventually returned to his quarters at Monroe and Alexander and sat on the bumper of Engine 1 watching the traffic and the people walk by. It came time to say good bye. I thanked him again, as I did each time I rode with him. He was doing OK at that time. He said it would hit him hardest when he walked out the door the next morning. After 34 years and 7 months, knowing he would never return to the job was going to be difficult.

- JOHN SPAULDING

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

August, 2015

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August, 2015

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

GFD

Three car MVA with pin for Gowanda

JOHN HOPPER

Third alarm destroys Yonkers home On Monday, June 29, 2015, Yonkers Fire Companies were toned out to the area of 85 Bruce Avenue for a reported 10-29 (structure fire).

While responding, units were advised that there were multiple calls coming in, all reporting a structure fire.

Engine 304 advised they had smoke showing in the area of Bruce Avenue and Landscape Place.

While searching for the fire, Yonkers police advised the address was 2 Landscape Place.

Units were redirected to that location and found a set back four story wood frame with heavy fire showing on the top floor.

Battalion 1 arrived on scene and transmitted a 10-30 (all hands), assigning Squad 11, Ladder 75 as the FAST team, Battalion 2 as the safety officer, Car 3 and Car 6.

Shortly after, a second alarm was transmitted by Battalion 1 for heavy fire on the third and fourth floors and through the roof.

On the second alarm, Engines 312, 313, 309 as the new Safety Officer and Ladder 73 were assigned and ordered to come in off of Bruce Avenue and stretch in to Land-

At 10:53 this morning, July 2nd, the pagers alerted Gowanda Fire Department and Gowanda Ambulance Squad to a three car MVA with injury at Route 62 and Allen St in the village.

Chiefs 1 and 2 arrived on location within two minutes to find that a car had gone through the intersection and was hit on both sides with a heavy impact by a pickup truck and another car.

In the car that took the double side impact, a female passenger

JUMP TO FILE #070215100 was trapped and sustained a head and other injuries. Other people involved had only minor injuries.

Rescue 7 set to work removing the passenger door from the car to allow EMT's access and to remove the victim. Engine 4 set up traffic control to assist the police departments on scene.

Gowanda Ambulance re-

quested mutual aid from the Cattaraugas Indian Reservation Fire Department for a second ambulance to the scene.

Gowanda firefighters worked to disable all electrical systems and to secure the damaged vehicles. Three flatbeds were called to the remove the vehicles from the busy intersection while fire crews swept up debris and controlled traffic.

- TIM TWICHELL

JUMP TO FILE #063015109 scape.

Ladder 75 was put to work as an extra company and Ladder 73 was assigned as the new FAST truck.

Car 3 transmitted a third alarm assigning Engine 308, 310, and Ladder 72 and had the companies stage at Fire Station 4 on Radford Street just a few blocks away.

Car 3 advised they had heavy fire throughout and evacuated all members from the building. Multiple master streams and hand lines from the exterior were put in to operation and the main body of fire was eventually knocked down.

Companies eventually went interior to knock down the remaining pockets of fire and overhaul.

The incident was placed under control with an approximate three hour duration.

Companies from the Greenville Fire Department and New Rochelle Fire Department relocated into the City of Yonkers for cover.

- JOHN HOPPER

DAVID F.KAZMIERCZAK

Garage a total loss after fire

Buffalo, NY. Firefighters of the 4th Battalion 1st Platoon were called out to battle a garage fire at 111 Welker St. on the city's East Side on Tuesday, June 23, 2015. Initial reports from police indicated heavy smoke and that it was a large fire. An extra engine was dispatched and was picked up shortly after it was determined to be a garage. Firefighters used two one and three quarter inch hand lines to contain the blaze. The structure collapsed and firefighters had a considerable amount of overhaul. The garage was a total loss. Acting Division Chief James Hayes was in command.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

EMS ISSUE CHELLE CORDERO

Mass casualty drills need to be more than just learning how to care for patients. First responders need to know how to protect themselves during response. In a world filled with man-made as well as natural disasters, rescuers are painfully aware that we are only vulnerable human beings.

There was an increased focus on emergency response readiness after September 2001, when more than 400 emergency responders perished.

There is no way to practice for every event. There is no script and the emergencies we deal with may be far from the textbook scenarios we were taught in the classroom.

There is danger in the unknown.

Although the initial attack on 9/11 involved airplanes crashing into the buildings, structural damage fires fed by jet fuel led to the Twin Towers crashing to the ground and the possibility of secondary explosions from un-burnt jet fuel posed unexpected dangers to rescuers and building occupants.

Natural disasters caused by the forces of nature can include any or all hazardous risks such a floods, fires, building collapse, downed wires, explosions, heat, cold, and more. Terrorism always runs the risk

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August, 2015

Protecting the protectors

of secondary attacks after first responders have arrived, simultaneous system failures and large scale confusion and panic. In addition, terrorism creates crime scenes where evidence should be preserved. And there is increased need for vigilance.

The Homeland Security Act of 2002 defines emergency response providers as including "federal, state, and local public safety, law enforcement, emergency response, emergency medical (including hospital emergency facilities), and related personnel, agencies, and authorities."

Depending on the scenario, there will be multiple agencies on scene.

In addition to EMS, FD and PD, there may be other rescue workers and volunteers, who have not trained with the same intensity as uniformed services. Cross training between agencies is vital and fosters a clearer understanding of each unit’s training and strengths.

The National Incident Management System (NIMS) is a systematic, proactive approach to guide departments and agencies at all levels of government, nongovernmental organizations, and the private sector to work together seamlessly and manage incidents involving all threats and hazards—regardless of cause, size, location, or complexity—in order to reduce loss of life, property and harm to the environment.

Egos definitely need to be shelved when it comes to “Who is in

charge?” Cross training in Incident Management will help the responders work together more cohesively.

In studies conducted soon after 9/11 actual responders and their respective agencies were asked where they felt there were shortcomings and to make suggestions about needed improvements. PPEs were discussed and the lack of adequate protection during large scale operations.

There were several complaints about what the PPEs provided and the restrictions placed on movement.

Drills using full PPE helped to point out where equipment hindered the rescuer as well as helping the rescuers get used to donning the necessary gear.

Because of the different events involved in MCIs, responders had to assume unfamiliar roles (like crowd control, construction, etc.) and work alongside potential rescuers whose training was different or even untrained. Even when responders participated in training drills extensively, they rarely had to endure the long hours, harsh temperatures, and lack of supplies like food and rest.

First response agency leaders need to arrange disaster drills, stock supplies in bulk, arrange support for their responders, communicate with other agencies and encourage CISD and follow-up after every incident.

DAVID F.KAZMIERCZAK

Buffalo, NY Fire 74 Ernst Ave. Buffalo firefighters of the 3rd Battalion 4th Platoon were called out to battle a structure fire at 74 Ernst Ave. on the city's East Side on June 8, 2015. Engine Co. 31 arrived to find a fire on the first floor. A one and three quarter hand line was laid in and made quick work of the fire. The structure was vacant. No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation. Damage was moderate.

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August, 2015

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

JOHN HOPPER

JOHN HOPPER

All patients stable after serious Yonkers MVA On Friday July 3, 2015 at approximately 4:30 p.m., Yonkers Fire Department was toned out to the New York State Thruway (Interstate 87) Northbound at the Cross County Parkway for a 10-34 (motor vehicle accident) involving a tractor trailer and a passenger car, with the car underneath the truck with people

JUMP TO FILE #071513129 trapped.

Shortly after the location was updated to the Thruway southbound at Mile Square Road. Engine 307 quickly arrived on scene and con-

firmed that there was a car underneath the truck with people trapped inside.

Due to the quick actions of Yonkers Fire Companies and Yonkers Police Emergency Service Unit Officers, one child was quickly removed with minor injuries and two adults were eventually removed.

All of the occupants were stable

and did not suffer any life threatening injuries.

A StatFlight Medivac from the Westchester County Medical Center was requested due to the nature of the emergency and a landing zone was set up on Interstate 87 Southbound at Westerly Street. The flight was later cancelled and the victims were trans-

ported to a nearby hospital by Empress EMS. Units that responded were Engines 307, 304, Squad 11 with Collapse Rescue, Ladders 73, 75, Battalion 1, Battalion 2 and Rescue 1.

- JOHN HOPPER

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

August, 2015

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1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

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August, 2015

FACES FROM AROUND THE STATE 1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

To see your photos in the newspaper, upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.

Chief Hughs calling the fire under control on scene of a 2nd alarm.

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

MIKE CAREY

Stillwater Fire chief Jeff Mahar marches in the Stillwater Memorial Day parade

Boght Chief Brian LaPlante and Assistant Chief Ken Urquhart oversee a vehicle fire drill

Slingerland Fire Department

MIKE CAREY

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Stony Point Fire Department’s Ex-Chief Huslinger

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

August, 2015

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August, 2015

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

SCENES FROM FIRE 2015 Photos by Heather Pillsworth

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

SCENES FROM FIRE 2015 Photos by Heather Pillsworth

August, 2015

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August, 2015

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

Vehicle News

NORTH EASTERN RESCUE VEHICLES, INC.

The Madrid Rescue Squad recently put this 2015 1st Priority Road Rescue Remount into service that was purchased from Bob Reilly of North Eastern Rescue Vehicles, Inc.

RON JEFFERS

Washington Heights has placed into service their first rescue unit with this new Freightliner/Ferrara rescue truck.

Chief Daniel J. Schwertfeger of Oneida County elected President of the NYSAFC Verona, NY. Chief Daniel J. Schwertfeger of the Floyd Fire Department was installed as president of the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs (NYSAFC) during the 109th Annual Conference & FIRE 2015 Expo JUMP TO FILE # Installation Cere- 080713101 mony held on June 20, 2015, at the Turning Stone Resort, Shenendoah Clubhouse, in Verona. He will serve a one-year term leading the statewide organization.

Schwertfeger has been a member of the Floyd Volunteer Fire Department since 1975. A life member of the department, he has served as captain, 2nd assistant chief, and 1st assistant chief and is currently serving his 30th year as chief.

He is also a life member and past president of the Oneida County Fire Chiefs Association, as well as a member and past chairman for five years of the Oneida County Fire Advisory Board.

Currently, Schwertfeger is an Oneida County deputy fire coordinator for Zone 3. In this position, he serves on the County Radio Committee, Long Range Planning Committee, and County Training Tower Committee. Additionally, he is the chairman of the Task Force for the Cause and Origin Team in Oneida County.

Schwertfeger is a life member of NYSAFC and joined the association in 1981. He served for 13

years as a member of the Legislative Committee, Volunteer Chiefs Committee, and most recently the Conference Committee before being elected to the board of directors in 2010.

In addition, Schwertfeger is a member of the Firemen’s Association of the State of New York

WALTER TOMASIK

(FASNY). He has been a town of Floyd councilman since 2011.

Schwertfeger has owned and operated U.A.P. Engine Rebuilders, Inc. as president since 1998, and has been employed with the company since 1974.

- NYSAFC

RON JEFFERS

Bullville has placed into service twin 2015 KME 1250-gpm/1000gwt rescue-pumpers.

BOB ROOT

Preparing for the parade

NORTH EASTERN RESCUE VEHICLES, INC.

The City of Troy Fire Department recently put these two Braun Chief XL's into service that were purchased from Mike Collier of North Eastern Rescue Vehicles, Inc.

On June 17th, firefighters with the Cronomer Valley Fire Department were diligently preparing their apparatus for the Hudson Valley Parade in Lake George.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

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August, 2015

STEPHEN WALLACE

DAVID F.KAZMIERCZAK

Fire in rear bedroom

STEPHEN WALLACE

Pirates invade Olcott along Lake Ontario The Pirate Festival in Olcott, New York is one of the great Western New York summer events that brings everyone out.

The parade always begins with a marked Niagara County Sheriff Unit. For on this day, Sheriff James Voutour allows one of his men to fly the skull and cross bones at least for a little while.

Then, the Olcott Volunteer Fire Company brings it on, and they do it right. Equipment shining and lights flashing, sirens blowing, the parade is a thrill for thousands of on lookers.

Driving Olcott's Ambulance was Cheryl Cass a true crowd pleaser.

Brother and Sister fire companies come down to the lake to be part of this event with Olcott.

Family members climb aboard the trucks and pirate beads and candy are tossed to the crowd. Hundreds of kids stampeded the street to grab the goodies.

Special pirate beads bring out the interesting side of some adults, who also make sure they do what they must to get beads.

Miller Hose Fire Company are the champions when it comes to causing the rush for treats. They have members walking on each side of their primary truck with buckets

JUMP TO FILE #071115101 of candy that never goes empty.

This is because, on the front bumper of the lead truck is a container with pounds and pounds of candy.

Wrights Corners and it's unique green and white trucks got in the spirit as Pirate JJ McKnight was placed by a window in the officer seat to yell “ARRRRRRRRRRRRR” to all the kids as the truck went by.

The Tactical Sweat Team from Wrights Corners marched in their gear in the hot sun requiring no water, just brute endurance.

When you talk about the polished shine and pure dress uniform look, then you know Wendiville was also in the parade.

Barker came down the road and loaded the trucks up with candy and family.

All in all, thousands of people lined both sides of the road to watch this event.

For a little while, those that respond to the call for help, put a patch over their eyes, swung an ax like a pirate’s sword and sang "16 men on dead man’s ship".

- STEPHEN WALLACE

Buffalo, NY. Firefighters of the 7th Battalion 3rd Platoon were called out to battle a bedroom fire in a two and a half story frame dwelling at 355 Cambridge Ave. near the city's Delavan Grider section on Monday, June 29, 2015 at 5:30 a.m. Engine Co. 33 arrived and reported smoke showing and laid in a one and three quarter inch hand line. The fire was in a rear first floor bedroom. A second one and three quarter inch line was taken to the second floor. No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation. Damage was listed at $20,000. The Red Cross was called for three adults and four children. Division Chief Patrick Brittzalaro was in command.

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August, 2015

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Auto pedestrian traffic accident in the City of Rensselaer

A quiet Monday evening, June 8th, was disrupted quickly in front of 901 3rd Ave. in the City of Rensselaer. The Rensselaer Fire Department was dispatched for a Delta determined traffic accident auto pedestrian. On arrival, firefighters had female lying on the sidewalk. Crews quickly backboarded and collared her. While this was going on, a fight broke out between family members and another person on the scene.

Rensselaer city police officers quickly broke up the fight and protected the firefighters. The female victim was taken to Albany Medical Center for her injuries. The driver of the black car was arrested for intentionally running over the female victim. The police department shut down the area and made it a crime scene.

The mother deer was killed right away in the crash

STEPHEN M WALLACE

Wrights Corners Fire handles ejection into woods The calls came in fast and furious to the Niagara County Dispatch center. A motorcyclist crashed into a deer, which was crossing Stone Road

by Center.

The driver of the motorcle was ejected into the deep woods and swamp. Wrights Corners firefighters quickly fought through the thorns and vines and made it to the patient, as did Niagara County Sheriffs Deputy Paul Harrer.

The crews secured the patient

JUMP TO FILE #061315100 and provided in woods medical attention until they could safely get him to the road. Newfane ALS was called to the scene and Mercy Flight was called in to land at the Niagara County Fairgrounds, only a minute away.

The female deer was dead along the side the road.

All hands from Wrights Corners worked together and worked their way through the deep mud and muck and poisonous plants to get the patient safely to the waiting ALS crews.

The driver was taken to Mercy Flight and flown to the trauma center in Buffalo ECMC. The accident is being investigated by the Niagara County Sheriffs office.

- STEPHEN WALLACE

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.

JOHN SMITH

Structure fire for Dunkirk At 2:50 a.m. on June 12, 2015, the City of Dunkirk was dispatch to 80 King Street for a report of a structure fire. At about 2:52 a.m., Rescue 1 went on scene and reported a working fire. At approximately 6:55 a.m., firefighters were called back to the scene for a rekindle. The cause of the fire is under Investigation by local officials. Fredoniastoodby at City of Dunkirk during the firefight.

FRANK ROBINSON

The Church Hill (MD) Fire Company runs this 1989 Mack CF/95' aerialscope. This unit once saw service in Central Queensbury, NY.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

August, 2015

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JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Ground breaking on new Defreestville Fire Station KEVIN BRAUTLACHT/WOWMEPHOTOS.COM

Buffalo Fire responds to train and tractor trailer collision On June 23. 2015 at approximately 10 a.m., Buffalo firefighters responded with a full first alarm assignment to a reported collision between a train and tractor-trailer at 320 Ganson Street.

Dispatch quickly updated responding crews that the tractortrailer was burning and there was a report of explosions and injuries.

First arriving firefighters reported that the cab of the tractor-

JUMP TO FILE #062315105 trailer was fully involved and that there were natural gas cylinders on the truck. One of the cylinders had exploded prior to the fire departments arrival and scattered pieces of the truck on the road.

The truck driver and the conductor of the train; who had been

on the back of the train; suffered burns and were taken to the hospital. One firefighter was also injured and transported to the hospital.

The train car was empty and the tractor-trailer was carrying a shipment of flour.

Damage was listed at $600,000 to the vehicles.

- KEVIN BRAUTLACHT

ON THE LITER SIDE If you have photos you would like to see in our On the Liter Side feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.

After 20 years of planning, the Defreestville Fire Department placed the shovels in the ground for their brand new fire station.

Members of the community, fellow firefighters from surrounding stations, and local senators and county personnel attended the ground breaking ceremony on June 10, 2015. This day marks a milestone for the Defreestville Fire Department.

Members of the North Greenbush Fire District No. 1 led the ceremony talking about how they've worked so hard to get where they are today and praised the members of the building committee and all their hard work.

North Greenbush Fire District No.1 District Chief and Chief of the Defreestville Fire Department Chief Brian McCrae explained how the new station will enable firefighters to be able to train better with the newer technology that is available and offer the ability to hold classes. The old building was

JUMP TO FILE #061115100 not able to do that.

The chief continued to explain how it would make it safer for firefighters to operate in safer conditions while working on the apparatus. At the old station, they had to pull out into traffic and park on the edge of the roadway to do work.

The building will offer a disaster relief area for the public in case of a natural disaster or emergency situation where evacuations are needed. The old building did not.

About 75 people attended the groundbreaking ceremony. Members of the fire department were praised for their actions by local leaders and members of the community. The new station will take about 9 to 14 months to build.

- JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

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.

HEATHER PILLSWORTH

The South Blooming Grove Fire Department brought their "antique" to the Memorial Day Parade held in Washingtonville on May 25th.

BOB ROOT

City of Newburgh's Engine 2 and Ladder 2 recently in action at a structure fire.

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August, 2015

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

FACES OF NEW YORK’S EMERGENCY SERVICES To see your photos in the newspaper, upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com

PROVIDED

Cardinal Dolan visited St. Mary's Church on June 5, 2015 and spoke with volunteers from the Washingtonvile Fire Department

South Glens Falls chief Keith Dickinson

Ladies of the West Albany Fire Department Explorer Post

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Putnum Valley Fire Department

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

Verdoy chief Brian Girard

MIKE CAREY

MIKE CAREY

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

August, 2015

PAGE 43

Laugh your way to the bank with a stand-up comedy fund-raiser

Tom Swetz at a recent second alarm fire

JOHN SPAULDING

Superintendent of apparatus retires Rochester, NY. In the fire service, we mostly discuss firefighting techniques, training, and the apparatus used to complete the tasks and get to and from the calls for service safely. We don't often discuss the men and women that work in the shop ensuring everything is up to snuff.

After 20 years of working on school buses at the National School Bus company, he applied for the City of Rochester Superintendent of Apparatus position that was open. Tom Swetz was very qualified for working on large trucks, except one thing - pumps. After a few months, he inquired again and was given the position.

He was charged with maintaining and specifying new apparatus orders to meet the demands of Rochester's fire department and fleet. The building used for maintenance was built in the 50's and lacks some space, even when they did a major remodel 15 years ago.

He managed about six mechanics.

One of those mechanics is on duty during the overnights for repairs at firehouses if possible to prevent changeovers to a reserve truck.

"Swetzy" as everyone refers to him, officially retired on Friday June 26, 2015 after starting on December 6, 1989 under the command of Chief Huether, and serving under eight different chiefs. He is now 64, and lost his wife last year to cancer.

It made him take a hard look at what he has done, and what was left in his life. He has three kids and three grandchildren.

As being assigned Car 7, he was responsible to respond to every second alarm or greater call to en-

JUMP TO FILE #062715101 sure the trucks were working properly. He left the job with a third alarm fire at 1:00 a.m. and was on scene into the early morning hours.

He had already turned his goods in, so he was checking every truck in his flannels and jeans. He truly cares about each truck and to ensure they don't fail during operation.

The greatest satisfaction is just that; that the trucks perform flawlessly at each scene. He is definitely going to miss all the guys and says that getting out to the firehouses was always a high point.

Nearly every firefighter on the job echoed that statement saying they are going to miss him. They also wonder who can replace him.

He was seriously dedicated to the job and the trucks.

He grew up in the city and raised his kids in the city in the same house that he purchased from his mother. He was married for 44 years, and by speaking with him, you can tell he misses her, almost shedding a tear. But he was quick to say he was moving on with his life.

He didn't want a retirement party but the mechanics got him a cake anyway. He plans on spending some more time at his hunting cabin.

Just about everyone says he will leave a void in the department that will be tough to fill. His unique sense of humor and almost curmudgeon attitude made everyone like him in some way.

- JOHN SPAULDING

Who needs to laugh more than the Fire Companies ---the first responders who deal with dangerous circumstances each and every day?

There’s an innovative concept for fund-raising developed by Joey Novick, who is a stand-up comedian and the Fire Commissioner in his hometown: Stand-up comedy shows.

Fire companies can get much-needed laughs and profit financially as well.

Novick's company, ComedyWorks, provides all-star headline comedians from HBO, Comedy Central, Showtime, Last Comic Standing, and the Tonight Show.

Novick’s been producing comedy shows since 1977, and has experience producing shows with such comedians as Jerry Seinfeld, Rosie O’Donnell, Larry The Cable Guy, and Tim Allen.

"The comedians were very funny, and very professional," wrote Mark Bruhmuller, Fire Chief of the Churchtown Fire Company of New York. “Joey Novick did an excellent job. Everybody loves to laugh, and it's a great deal of fun."

ComedyWorks produces more than 300 shows a year, almost 150 of those for emergency service organizations. The money these shows can

VENDOR TIDBITS Notes from the emergency service business community

raise varies, depending on things like the number of tickets sold, how they're priced, the amount spent on promotion and whether food and drink are available.

"Mostly companies produce shows in their own facilities, which may hold 300–400 people," says Novick.

"We'll put together a show for them that will bring in comedians from major comedy clubs, with a headliner from HBO, Comedy Central, or the Tonight Show. The feature performer will be someone who's headlined the comedy circuit: Catch a Rising Star, the Improv, the Comedy Store. The host of the show will be a comedian who's very high-energy, like a gameshow host, to get the audience warmed up. A triple headliner show!”

The Somerset Fire Company of New Jersey produces two fundraisers a year through ComedyWorks.

"We've done about ten shows so far, and it's been great," says Mike Rein-

beck, who coordinates the shows for the 65-member volunteer department.

"A friend of mine who had used Joey told me, 'This guy books really good acts.' So, we did the first show, everything was great, and we've been doing shows with Joey ever since."

"I find their people to be very funny," agrees Adam Hubney, chief of the Atlantic Highlands Volunteer Fire Department in New Jersey, which books comedians through ComedyWorks for its annual dinner.

"We have a professional comedy club in our county, and the quality is just as good."

Comedy Works provides a 30-page ‘How-To’ guide that assists organizations through the comedy show production and warns of mistakes to avoid. "We make sure they follow everything in the guide," says Novick. "If a company has never done this before, it gives you everything from you need to know. We make sure that things get done right.

Clients who follow the guide always do very well and tend to make money.”

For information on Comedy Works, call 1 (888) 782-4589, go to www.comedyworks.org or e-mail joeynovick@earthlink.net.

PAGE 44

August, 2015

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

HVVFA has fun in Lake George

The New Hamburg Fire Department won the award for Best Float

MIKE CAREY

A Mahopac firefighter has his own apparatus in the Mardi Gras parade.

MIKE CAREY

The Stillwater Fire Department won the award for Best Firematic

MIKE CAREY

MIKE CAREY

The Colonie Village Fire Department won the award for most humerous

Lake George, NY. It was two days before the first day of summer, but the Hudson Valley Volunteer Firemen's Association held a beach party on Friday, June 19th in Lake George.

As part of its annual convention, the association held a Mardi Gras parade with the theme "Beach Party."

40 departments took part with

JUMP TO FILE #062515101 Colonie Village receiving the award for Most Humerous.

New Hamburg won the award for Best Float.

- MIKE CAREY

The Shaker Road-Loudonville Fire Department takes part in the HVVFA Mardi Gras parade

MIKE CAREY

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

August, 2015

MEET ROVER

Meet His App “ROVER MOBILE”

Phone: (203) 445 6536 • www.spotteddogtech.com Built by firefighters, for firefighters

PAGE 45

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August, 2015

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

Heritage Chaplain’s Corner Didymus McHugh

DAVID F.KAZMIERCZAK

What did we pass on?

We have a heritage and tradition that the fire service, our region, department or company has handed down.

In the fire service, we have the heritage of values, family, pride, honor, integrity. In certain areas, it may be a wetdown or housing a new apparatus.

We may have heard of the major fires from years ago, where do we get all our training? How did certain ways of doing things come from?

We have our crews that came before us to thank. They have lived the historic fires. They have developed certain firefighting strategies.

Granted we may no longer have to worry about taking the horses for the walk, toward the end of shift, but it is always good to hear the stories.

I encourage you to listen to them.

I have heard it said that once you are a firefighter, you are always a firefighter.

I cannot imagine what it must feel like to be a dedicated firefighter and then have to retire.

How many walking encyclopedias are in the nursing home or no longer around the station anymore?

Everyone has value.

The American Sign Language symbol for wisdom is to stroke your sideburns, where the grey is traditionally.

Just because the older, more experienced are no longer allowed to respond, does not mean that we should lose all that valuable information.

Maybe we should save, in video or audio format, what our brothers have experienced.

In many cultures the elders are treasured for their wisdom. Let us always make the time to listen to our elders.

We will be pleasantly surprised at the wisdom and history that will be unveiled to us.

If you have knowledge that you think that you can teach the rookies, how much can you learn from the elders?

APPARATUS FOR SALE CHECK OUT ALL OF OUR USED VEHICLES ONLINE!

VISIT WWW.1RBN.COM AND CLICK ON “VEHICLES”

NOTICE TO BIDDERS: Sealed bids will be received by the Board of Fire Commissioners, Uniondale Fire District, Town of Hempstead, NY until 5PM on Tuesday, July 21, 2015. Bids will be publicly opened and read at 6:45PM on Tuesday, July 21, 2015 in the meeting room of the Board of Fire Commissioners, 501 Uniondale Avenue, Uniondale, NY for: Emergency Ambulance. Instructions to Bidder, Form of Bid Bond, Proposal and the Specifications are “Contract Documents,” Prospective Bidders may pick up the “Contract Documents” at 501 Uniondale Avenue, Uniondale, NY 11553 or contact the Fire District Secretary at (516) 481-8411 between the hours of 9AM to 5PM, Monday-Friday. The bidder shall furnish a 5% Bid Security assuring fulfillment of the contract in all its provisions.

Security for bid as set forth herein must be presented with the bid. Failure to provide the required security will render the bidder nonresponsive and the bid will not be accepted. The contract will be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder or the bid will be rejected within forty-five (45) days of the date of opening. The Board of Fire Commissioners reserves the right to reject any and all bid(s).

The proposal shall be annexed hereto a noncollusive bidding certification as prescribed in 103-d of the General Municipal Law.

DAVID F.KAZMIERCZAK

Heavy fire found on second floor Buffalo, NY. Firefighters of the 4th Battalion 4th Platoon were called out to battle a structure fire at 204 Whitney Place on the city's Lower West Side early Tuesday morning, June 16, 2015. Firefighters arrived to heavy fire on the second floor and attic of the vacant two and a half story frame dwelling. Neighbors reported the possibility of a homeless person staying inside the dwelling. A search proved negative on the occupant. Firefighters used several one and three quarter inch hand lines and 45 feet of ladders to bring the fire under control. One firefighter was treated for injuries and the cause of the fire is under investigation.

Damage was extensive. Division Chief Patrick Brittzalaro was in command.

The Town of Weston is seeking bids on a 1976 Mack R-600 Attack Pumper. 50 Gallon Fuel Tank • 21,000 miles. Heavy Duty 5 Speed Standard Transmission. 1,000 Waterous Pump 1,000 Gallon Water Tank. Very Good Condition. All bids must be submitted to the Town Office in a sealed envelope by noon September 21, 2015 clearly marked “Bid 1976 Firetruck.”

Mail to Town of Weston Attn: Selectboard PO Box 98 Weston, VT 05161. Bids will be opened on September 22, 2015.

The Town of Weston reserves the right to refuse or reject any or all bids. For more info please contact Brian Lundberg at 802-824-6788 or email lundbergvt@myfairpoint.net.

20’ Rescue 1® Walk-Around Demo Available for Immediate Delivery. Spartan Metro Star MFD-2015 chassis, Cummins ISL 450 HP diesel engine, seating for crew of six. 20’ all extruded aluminum body, upper storage compartments.

Curb side roof access lift-up stairway, absorbent compartment with electric re-loader and dispenser, 9000 lbs. portable winch with three receiver positions. Participating co-op purchasing programs: GSA, H-GAC, and New Jersey State Contract.

Contact Mike Marquis (800) 752-8786, (732) 223-1411 in New Jersey, or info@plcustom.com

For Sale 2014 Kymco 500 side by side 4×4 UTV. It has 26 miles on it. Asking price $6,500.00 OBO For more info call 845-238-4228 Email: Atkins11@optonline.net

For Sale First Priority Renaissance Wheeled Coach Type 1 Ambulance on a 2014 Chevrolet K3500 4x4 Diesel Chassis. This unit was completely refurbished. Some upgrades include new FPEV RCT Electrical System, hoseline 12v Heater/AC Unit, new LonPlate Mica Grey Floor, Interior LED Lighting. $115,000 For additional information or photos, email vsales@emergencyvehiclecenter.com or call 800-247-7725.

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August, 2015

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August, 2015

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