1st Responder News New York December Edition

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DECEMBER, 2020

MAN JUMPS TO ESCAPE HOUSE FIRE WITH EXPLOSIONS IN ELSMERE

THOMAS MARRA

Elsmere, NY - A man jumped from a second floor window to escape a fully-involved fire at his Elsmere home on Saturday, October 24th. Multiple 911 calls began flooding the dispatch center for reports of a structure fire with people trapped inside with multiple explosions coming from the residence at 28 Kenwood Avenue at 11:18 P.M. - See full story on page 18

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December, 2020

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

BOB MCCORMICK

Homeowners Extinguish Garage Fire with Garden Hose in Newburgh Newburgh, NY - Cronomer Valley Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire on Sunday, November 1st, at approximately 11:15 A.M. The homeowner reported her garage on fire, located at 373 Frozen Ridge Rd. in the Town of Newburgh.

Cronomer Valley units responded with Middlehope FD and Plattekill FD to the scene.

Cronomer Valley and Middlehope units, along with Town of Newburgh PD arrived on scene minutes later with the majority of fire knocked down with a garden hose by the caller's husband. Town of

JUMP TO FILE #110120109 Newburgh EMS responded to check out the owners, who had minor smoke inhalation but refused transport.

The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Town of Newburgh Fire Investigator’s office and appears to be electrical in nature. Units cleared the scene within an hour. No other injuries were reported.

- CRONOMER VALLEY FIRE DISTRICT

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER/SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY

Three Alarms Struck at Vacant Building Fire in Burnt Hills Burnt Hills, NY - On October 10th at 7:09 P.M., the Burnt Hills Fire Department along with Malta Ridge, Round Lake, Ballston Lake, East Glenville, Eagle Matt Lee, and the Union Fire Company were dispatched to Route 50 and Wellness Drive for a reported commercial structure fire.

The caller stated that heavy black smoke and fire was coming from the building. Earlier that day the fire department was dispatched to the same address for a reported fire. Crews arrived to find a basement fire and extinguished it. Firefighters then checked the house for extension but did not find any at the time. The house now vacant, was a previously owned commercial

JUMP TO FILE #110620106 structure.

As multiple units were heading to the scene heavy black smoke and the bright glow from the fire could be seen from up to a mile away.

The first arriving chief on scene had heavy fire and smoke pushing from the building and immediately requested additional resources on his mutual aid plan to the scene.

Multiple units quickly arrived on scene and began establishing a water supply. Round Lake and East Glenville’s truck companies arrived and began to set up for master stream operations. Firefighters

used multiple hand lines to pump water into the windows of the vacant structure. The truck companies went into full master stream operations and quickly began to knock down the heavy fire. As firefighters continued to pommel the building with water, the roof collapsed inwards on the second floor.

Firefighters remained on scene for over one hour conducting master stream operations. Command requested an excavator to the scene to tear the building down, as it was a life safety hazard. The fire is currently under investigation. No firefighters were injured on scene.

- JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

THOMAS MARRA

Van Versus SUV in New Baltimore New Baltimore, NY - One minor injury was reported after a van crashed into the rear of an SUV in New Baltimore. The New Baltimore Fire Department was dispatched with Ravena Rescue for a motor vehicle accident at 9:30 A.M. on Sunday, October 18th, in the area of Route 9W and Route 51. According to Chief John Wallace, both vehicles were headed northbound when the car was making a left-hand turn onto Route 51 and the van struck the car from behind.

The driver of the van was treated at the scene and released with a minor nose injury from hitting the steering wheel.

The driver of the car was not injured.

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER/SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

December, 2020

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December, 2020

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

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THOMAS MARRA

One Transported in Glenmont MVA

Glenmont, NY - Emergency crews responded to a motor vehicle accident in Glenmont on Wednesday, October 21st. The Selkirk and Elsmere Fire Departments were dispatched with Delmar-Bethlehem EMS, Albany County Paramedics and Bethlehem Police to Route 9W at Plank Road at 8:10 P.M. for a two-car motor vehicle accident. Chief Joe Michaniw of the Selkirk FD said there were two vehicles approximately 200feet apart in the grass along Route 9W, with one person in the Jeep and two people in the Subaru. Michaniw said the Subaru was headed north when the driver missed a turn and turned left, not seeing the Jeep, which led to the Jeep making contact with the side of the Subaru. One lane of Route 9W was blocked off as well as Frontage Road while crews worked on the accident scene. Wednesday nights are drill nights for the Selkirk FD and crews were at the fire training tower (visible from the accident location) at the time of the call. The close proximity to the accident scene and the response from Elsmere Fire made for fast response times to the scene. One person was transported to the hospital as a precaution after hitting their head on the steering wheel. The other patients refused medical treatment.

Port Jervis, NY – A parade was recently held in Port Jervis in honor of a lifelong resident and longtime fireman. Barry Longwell, who turned 75 this past summer, served as a fire and auxiliary policeman, responding as a fireman and as a fire policeman directing traffic and helping with hundreds of parades, races, fairs, and other community events over many decades of service to the hometown he has always loved.

Longwell has been battling health issues and was grateful for the parade past his home on the same Fourth Ward corner where he has lived all of his life. His wife, Mary, and daughter, Michele and her family, also live on the corner in the Fourth Ward.

It was Michele who asked about the parade for her father, which included dozens of police, fire, ambulance, animal control and other vehicles and participants, all eager to pay tribute to their lifelong colleague and friend.

“It was very, very special to Barry and to all of us that they did this, and also that they stopped in front of our house, got out of their vehicles, and stood on the sidewalk and saluted Barry,” Mary said. “It was also special to us that he put his hand up and saluted back. It was really, really special.”

Always active in his community as a self-employed contractor, volunteer, and for many years as the city’s kind, gentle Animal Control officer, the parade meant a lot to recipient, his family and others gathered to share the day with them.

It was a heartwarming show of respect for a life of service given by a man whom his family said, “always lived for the city of Port Jervis, which he loves.”

“He has always been proud to tell anyone he was from Port Jervis,” said Mary. “This was a day for him.”

- SHARON SIEGEL

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CORPORATE INFORMATION

1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New York edition - Vol. 21 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. Printed in Canada.

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BOB MCCORMICK

Vehicle Versus Pole in Newburgh

Newburgh, NY - Cronomer Valley FD responded to a vehicle into a telephone pole at 230 Fostertown Road on October 29th. Town of Newburgh Police and EMS were at the scene.

Firefighters disconnected the vehicle's battery while Town of Newburgh EMS evaluated the driver. Town of Newburgh Police are investigating the cause of the crash.

SHARON E. SIEGEL

A parade held in honor of Barry Longwell on his 75th birthday was enjoyed and greatly appreciated by the lifelong resident, firefighter and community volunteer, pictured with is wife of 57 years, Mary Longwell.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

December, 2020

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December, 2020

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In memory of those who gave all

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

1st Responder Newspaper honors and remembers emergency responders lost in the line of duty

California: Peter Hein, 61 Rank: Fire Engineer Incident Date: August 11, 2020 Death Date: August 11, 2020 Fire Department: Big Pine Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: On August 11, 2020, Fire Engineer Peter Hein was working with the U.S. Forest Service at the Stagecoach Wildfire in Kern County. He suffered a medical emergency and was immediately transported to the hospital where he passed away from an apparent heart attack.

California: Jose M. Perez, 44 Rank: Firefighter III/Paramedic Incident Date: July 22, 2020 Death Date: July 25, 2020 Fire Department: Los Angeles City Fire Department Initial Summary: Firefighter III/Paramedic Jose M. Perez contracted COVID-19 as a result of numerous exposures from positive COVID-19 patients during the course of his official duty for the Los Angeles City Fire Department. He subsequently passed away on July 25, 2020, from the virus.

Montana: Thomas Duffy, 40 Rank: Wildland Contract Incident Date: August 24, 2020 Death Date: August 24, 2020 Fire Department: N/A Initial Summary: On Monday, August 24, 2020, Pilot Thomas Duffy, flying a Type 1 Kmax helicopter, was conducting bucket drops while battling the White River Fire in Mount Hood National Forest, when his helicopter crashed. He worked for Central Copters, Inc., a private family run company out of Belgrade, Montana, as a wildland-contract pilot for the U.S. Forest Service. The official cause of the crash is under investigation.

Pennsylvania: David Closs Sr., 67 Rank: Volunteer Incident Date: August 17, 2020 Death Date: August 23, 2020 Fire Department: Avis Fire Company #1

Initial Summary: On August 17, 2020, Firefighter David Closs and other firefighters from the Avis Fire Company #1, responded to a residential structure fire.

Firefighter Closs was working scene safety a short distance away from the actual structure fire when he suffered a medical emergency and was immediately taken to the local hospital. He passed away on August 23, 2020 from an apparent heart attack.

Oregon: Diane Jones, 63 Rank: Wildland Contract Incident Date: August 31, 2020 Death Date: August 31, 2020 Fire Department: N/A Initial Summary: On Monday, August 31, 2020, Firefighter Diane Jones, who worked for a private company during the wildland fire season, KL Farms/Fire LLC, was battling the wildfires in the Mendocino National Forest in California, when she was involved in a vehicle crash, along with two other firefighters. Firefighter Jones was repositioning the engine when it backed over an embankment and into a fire. She passed away from the injuries she sustained in the accident. One of the two other firefighters is being treated for injuries sustained in the crash, while the third firefighter was uninjured. Firefighter Diane Jones was a volunteer firefighter for the Cresson Volunteer Fire Department in Cresson, Texas.

Her son, Captain Ian Shelly, also a member of the Cresson Volunteer Fire Department, was fighting the wildfires in the Mendocino National Forest as well.

Texas: Thomas Searcy, 45 Rank: Career Incident Date: July 27, 2020 Death Date: September 8, 2020 Fire Department: Houston Fire Department Initial Summary: On Tuesday, September 8, 2020, Captain Thomas Searcy was battling COVID-19 when he passed away in the Intensive Care Unit at the Memorial Hermann Hospital. He had been hospitalized for a month fighting the virus. Captain Searcy contracted COVID-19 from exposure in the workplace from numerous fire and EMS calls he responded to where individuals had been diagnosed with the disease.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

December, 2020

PAGE 7

2020...A little sweet and a little sour, just like these brussels sprouts FORK & HOSE CO. a Food Blog by A.J. Fusco

THOMAS MARRA

Police investigate what may have caused a motorcyclist to crash, later being pronounced dead at the hospital.

Police Investigate Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Selkirk Selkirk, NY - The Bethlehem Police Department is currently investigating a crash involving a single motorcycle that resulted in a fatality in Selkirk.

Bethlehem Police was dispatched with the Selkirk Fire Department, Delmar-Bethlehem EMS and Albany County Paramedics around 9:40 P.M. on Saturday, October 10th, for a reported motorcycle crash on Creble Road at the intersection of Elm Avenue.

According to a statement released by Cmdr. Adam Hornick of the Bethlehem Police Department, the incident was called in after a motorist passing through the area discovered the crash and called 911.

Upon arrival of emergency personnel, the operator of the motorcycle was found in a ditch off the roadway, in serious condition.

The patient was loaded into an ambulance with a LUCAS device in operation, which is a device used to deliver consistent chest compressions to a patient.

EMTs and paramedics transported the patient to Albany Medical Center Hospital, where he

JUMP TO FILE #102520114 later died from his injuries.

The crash is still under investigation, however, it has been determined that the operator and his 2015 Harley Davidson motorcycle were headed northbound on Creble Road when he crossed the double yellow line, left the roadway on the southbound shoulder and crashed into a ditch, according to the statement.

Police are awaiting toxicology results to determine whether or not speed or alcohol may have been involved in the crash.

Creble Road was closed from Route 9W to Route 32, and Elm Avenue was closed from Jericho Road to Creble Road. Road closures were in effect until 4:00 A.M. while police were on scene investigating the crash.

Bethlehem Police are asking if anyone who may have been in that area between 8:45 P.M. and 9:40 P.M. that might have any information to give them a call at 518439-9973.

- THOMAS MARRA

To say 2020 has been a trip, would certainly be an understatement. Between a global pandemic, one of the most important Presidential elections of all time and everything in between, this year has had its fair share of ups and downs. I have found myself over the course of this past year watching my daughter grow up into a happy and healthy two-year-old, while also watching friends grieve over the loss of loved ones due to Covid-19. It has been a roller coaster of emotions, not just for myself but everyone around me and beyond. With that being said, I do try to keep optimistic for what 2021 has to offer. But for now, let’s pay homage to 2020 with a dish that can describe it no better...Sweet and Sour Brussels

Sprouts!

Growing up I absolutely hated them. They were always served well beyond over cooked, mushy and pale green. Brussels Sprouts belong to the Brassica family, along with broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage. They all contain high amounts of compounds, that when exposed to heat, produce hydrogen sulfide, hence the smelly characteristics of these vegetables. But for some reason I feel like brussels sprouts get a worse rap than the rest of them. Maybe it's because so many home cooks just toss them in boiling water, cook them for way too long and then expect all the kiddies to run to the Thanksgiving table asking for seconds. When your first encounter with them includes said stinky boiling situation, you are no doubt setting yourself up to not like them as you get older. But like so many others before me, I gave brussels sprouts the chance to redeem themselves.

Enter the roasted brussels sprout…

Roasting them with high heat caramelizes the natural sugars, creating texture and a slight bitterness

that balances out the sweetness. It also helps preserve their bright green color, which is much more appealing than the over-boiled stuff you might be used to. And while brussels sprouts, roasted with some EVOO and salt are perfectly delicious, they pair really well with the sweet and sour flavor profile. There are many different ways to accomplish this, but my favorite is definitely using apple cider vinegar for our sour aspect and either honey or maple syrup for the sweet component. The cider vinegar packs just enough sweetness and bite, without being overbearing. The addition of chili flake, while certainly optional, adds yet another dimension of flavor via heat. And the chopped pecans add texture, something that can be lacking in brussels sprouts, enticing our palate to want more.

This recipe is perfect alongside a holiday roast, grilled steak or some pan seared pork chops. They will certainly turn a non-believer into a believer that brussels sprouts can actually taste good!

Stay safe, eat well!

SWEET AND SOUR ROASTED BRUSSELS SPROUTS Serves 4 as a side Ingredients:

16 oz. Brussels Sprouts ¼ Cup Honey 1/3 Cup Apple Cider Vinegar 1 tsp. Chili Flakes 1 Tbsp. Butter ¼ Cup Toasted Pecans, chopped for garnish Salt, to taste EVOO Procedure:

-Preheat oven to 450° F. Place ½ sheet pan in the oven to preheat as well.

-Trim the brussels and cut in half. Toss in a bowl with a pinch of salt, pepper and a drizzle of EVOO. Carefully remove the preheated sheet pan with an oven mitt. Add the brussels sprouts in a single layer and place back in the oven.

-Roast the brussels sprouts for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until charred and tender.

-While the brussels sprouts cook, place the honey in a small saucepan over mediumlow heat. Stir until the honey

starts to bubble, carefully add the vinegar. Simmer until slightly reduced. Add the chili flakes and a pinch of salt, stir to combine.

-Add the butter and remove the pan from the heat. Stir to

combine, set aside.

AJ FUSCO

-Place roasted brussels sprouts in a serving dish, drizzle with honey-vinegar glaze.

Garnish with chopped pecans.

PAGE 8

December, 2020

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

Two Drivers and One Student Critically Injured in New Windsor School Bus Crash New Windsor, NY - On October 21st at approximately 8:21 A.M., there was a school bus accident on Route 207 in the Town of New Windsor. New Windsor Police responded and found that a commercial tree service truck heading westbound on Route 207 crossed JUMP TO FILE# over the double yel- 102120100 low line and struck the Washingtonville School District school bus that was driving eastbound on Route 207. Police officers then called for fire units to respond for extrication of three people.

Fire and Rescue units from Washingtonville Fire Department, Maybrook Fire Department, Vails Gate Fire Department and Montgomery Fire Department responded. Ambulance response was from New Windsor Ambulance Corps with assistance from Cornwall EMS, Blooming Grove EMS, Newburgh EMS and Highland Falls EMS. The three injured people who were extricated and brought to the hospital were the driver of the tree service truck, the school bus driver, and one student who was sitting behind the bus driver. The two drivers were in critical condition, and the female student was in critical but stable condition. No names were released.

Seven students walked off the bus and were brought to the hospital to be seen by medical professionals. They were treated and released.

New Windsor Police were assisted by NY State Police, Blooming Grove Police, NYSP Accident Investigation Unit, and NY State DOT. The accident is still under investigation at this time.

BOB MCCORMICK

- NEW WINDSOR PD

BOB MCCORMICK

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

December, 2020

PAGE 9

Join Port Jervis Fire Department in Taking Polar Plunge!

Port Jervis, NY - On Saturday, January 16, 2021, from 8:30 A.M. to 9:30 A.M., Port Jervis Fire Department will host its second annual Polar Plunge event.

Anyone wishing to support the department and enjoy a JUMP TO FILE# chilly winter dip in 110420101 the Delaware River is invited to contact Port’s Recreation Department. Information may be gained at 845-858-4045 recreationdirector@portjervisny.gov or when updated at https://www.facebook.com/portjervisfiredepartment This year’s January 16th Polar Plunge is being held to raise funds for Port Jervis Fire Department’s Special Operations Team. Chaired

by PJFD Water Operations Team Lt. Tim Simmons, who also serves as a 4th Ward Councilman on Port’s Common Council, the PJFD event is co-sponsored by Port’s Recreation Department.

Last January, more than 60 individuals participated by taking a plunge, some repeating their accomplishment more than once.

Many stayed to enjoy a beach campfire and refreshments, receiving towels, bathrobes, and warm clothes that were ready for them on shore.

Last year’s water temperature was 32-dgrees. This was higher than the 20-degree air temperature.

All who entered the water were quickly in and out to avoid hypothermia. Simmons noted careful preparations, safety precautions, and special features of last year will be repeated and built upon for this year’s event, with special considerations to stay safely within COVID-19 guidelines.

Preparations include divers sweeping the designated plunge area for sharp rocks or debris, recreation staff preparing the beach area, and divers who will be protectively in the water throughout the event.

“It takes something to run down there and jump into that water,” Simmons said. “For some, it’s been on their bucket list. Hopefully those who completed this last year will return for another plunge."

Jamie Swingle, President of Sparrowbush Engine Company’s Ladies Auxiliary, was one of those who completed her first-time Polar Plunge last year, and loved it.

“I’ve always watched the ones on New Year’s Day and thought it looked really fun to do,” a bathrobe adorned Swingle said, following last year’s plunge. “It was kind of like something on my bucket list. It was great.”

Mark your calendars for January 16, 2021, 8:30a.m. - 9:30a.m. for Port Jervis’ Polar Plunge at West End Beach, Ferry Street, Port Jervis, NY to help raise funds for a dedicated group of emergency volunteers and to have some unique winter fun.

- SHARON SIEGEL

SHARON E. SIEGEL

Seven members of Port Jervis FD’s Water Operations Team pictured mid-Delaware River during last year's first PJFD Polar Plunge, (L-R): Mike Aumick, Keith Brown, Tyler Kowinsky, Bryce Sotelo, Dana Presto, Justin Brewster, and Petey Fuller.

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December, 2020

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

Reach for the Skies EMS ISSUE

CHELLE CORDERO

With all of the stories of A1 and computer driving cars, the concept of drones being used to help deliver emergency rescue procedures to victims may seem to be a bit of science-fiction, but it is AND CAN BE a lifesaving reality. Although the concept of using Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), more commonly called drones, is used extensively in some countries, most of the United States has been slow to grasp the technology. Indeed, most people believe drones are only used by the military or as toys for the hobbyist.

In November 2019, the Department of Homeland Security’s National Urban Security Technology Laboratory (NUSTL) assessed small, commercially available drones for priority needs of first responders through its First Responder Robotic Operations System Test (FRROST) program. The Los Angeles Fire Department has been using drones for a few years to help search out wildfires; a North Carolina county has been using underwater drones to search out hazards; and the New York State Preparedness Training Center in Oriskany has been conducting UAS training of Health and Homeland participants and first responders since 2017. As of May 2019, over 450 first responders have been trained in public safety UAS operations in Oriskany.

Potential uses for UAS in EMS include: search and rescue efforts, assessing damage and hazards, conducting hazardous material response, providing eyes over crowded situations to provide care where needed, and potentially delivering life-saving medical supplies several minutes before an ambulance’s arrival. A mock test over a busy municipality (Brooklyn, NYC) found that a drone could deliver a defibrillator several minutes before an ambu-

lance could maneuver through the crowded streets. If the drone is equipped with a two-way communication and a camera, a person on-scene could be talked through using the defibrillator, an epi-pen, or other immediate emergency care even before the professionals get there and when mere minutes can make a difference in survival, well, you know the rest.

While “flying a drone” for fun may seem easy for the average hobbyist, the requirements for first responders to fly for public safety operations and emergency response is quite a bit more regulated, understandably so. To be an Unmanned Aircraft System pilot an individual must take and pass the Federal Aviation Agency’s (FAA) part 107, special flying operations and be properly certified by the government agency as well as receiving ongoing training. The pilot must know how to use special maps and graphs to navigate over various terrain and, in some cases, building structures, and they need to understand wind speed and other potential hazards, especially airports. There is also a difference in flying a drone within the pilot’s sight and flying it “blind” or out of view. The sponsoring agency must apply for a COA (Certificate of Authorization) for the area in which the drone would be used.

Currently most American cities do NOT permit drone usage because of the congestion and buildings. Another stumbling block is HIPPA as many of the applications will record and store flight/action details and provisions need to be made to secure this information in a safe manner. It’s also advisable for an agency that uses drones in responses to belong to some kind of an alert system to let government officials, law enforcement, and the public know when there is a drone in the air to reduce the potential for panic and interference. There are companies who offer software systems and can help the agencies receive necessary documentation, help maintain cyber security, be part of alert systems, and help provide access to topography and knowledge of potentially restricted airspace.

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1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

December, 2020

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December, 2020

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JEFFREY ARNOLD/@FIREPHOTO25

A man was charged with arson following a car fire in Feura Bush, 10/4/20.

THOMAS MARRA

Richmondville Man Charged with Arson Following Car Fire JEFFREY ARNOLD/@FIREPHOTO25

Working Barn Fire in Mendon

Mendon, NY - On Thursday, October 15th, firefighters from Monroe, Ontario and Livingston Counties responded to a barn fire at 1725 West Bloomfield Road in Mendon. Upon arrival, units found a working fire in a large pole barn, located about a 1/4 mile from the roadway. Due to a lack of hydrants in the area, a tanker task force was requested to the scene, The blaze was brought under control in about 90 minutes.

There were no injuries reported. The cause of the fire was under investigation.

COMMAND VEHICLES

If your Department has photos you would like to see in our “Command Vehicles� feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

KEN SNYDER

The Cragsmoor Fire Co. in Ulster County uses this Ford F-250 as a command vehicle.

Onesquethaw, NY - A Richmondville man was taken into custody after setting a car on fire in Feura Bush and fleeing the scene on Sunday, October 4th.

The Onesquethaw Fire Department responded to a report of a vehicle fire at 10:30 P.M., located in a parking lot across from the Feura Bush Stewart's and next to a food truck.

Chief Mike Salisbury of the Onesquethaw Fire Department said he arrived to find a car with fire in the rear of the unoccupied vehicle.

There was also a fire alarm activation at Stewart's at the time of the call, which Salisbury said is from the store employees shutting the pumps off as a precaution from

JUMP TO FILE #102520113 the vehicle fire across the road.

While the car fire was being extinguished, "fire personnel then reported to Troopers that they observed a male hiding in the bushes near the scene," according to a statement from New York State Police.

Troopers began searching with flashlights to locate the male, but were unable to find him at the time.

Thomas Marra Photography then observed the male walking in the dark along the overpass near Creble Road and reported to Troopers when the male then took off hiding.

New York State Police searched the area with the assistance of the Albany County Sheriff's Department and the Bethlehem Police Department, where they located and took the male into custody.

According to a statement, the male was the registered owner of the vehicle and was charged with 3rd Degree Arson (a class C felony), Reckless Endangerment (a class B misdemeanor), and Trespass (Violation).

Under the new Bail Reforms Laws, the suspect was charged and released under supervision. There were no injuries reported on the scene.

- THOMAS MARRA

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 Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

FRANK ROBINSON

Clayville Fire Department operates a 1988 Hahn/Saulsbury Heavy Rescue. The unit once saw service at New Hartford, NY FD.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

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Two-Alarm Apartment Building Fire Leaves 20 Homeless in Albany

JEFFREY ARNOLD/@FIREPHOTO25

Three People Taken to Hospital After Rochester House Fire Rochester, NY - On Sunday morning, October 18th, Rochester firefighters responded to the report of a house fire on Enterprise Street. There was initially some confusion about the location of the fire, with multiple callers giving different addresses to the 911 dispatchers. Engine 7 located the working fire on A Place. The blaze was brought under control in about 20 minutes. Three occupants of the home were transported to Strong Memorial Hospital for evaluation. The investigation into the cause of the fire was ongoing.

LITTLE BIG GUYS If you have photos you would like to see in our Little Big Guys feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

FRANK ROBINSON

Coldenham Fire Department operates this 1999 Ford F350 250/200 Brush Truck.

Albany, NY - On October 11th at 4:18 P.M., City of Albany’s Truck 3 called out on air with heavy smoke and fire showing from 6 Brevator Street and requested the full transmission of the box alarm with reports of multiple people trapped in the JUMP TO FILE# building.

110620105 Truck 3 immediately transmitted the Signal 30 for a working fire. Truck 3 requested multiple ambulances and an additional rescue squad on the box as they had several people injured. Battalion One immediately transmitted the second-alarm, bringing in additional resources to the scene including one doctor from Albany Medical Center, as this was a large incident. The Albany Fire Department is one of the few departments in the area that utilizes an on scene doctor at their fire scene.

Firefighters from Truck 3 and Engine 10 immediately went to work searching the apartment building as heavy black smoke filled the afternoon sky. Firefighters from Engine 10 immediately connected to the nearest hydrant and deployed a hand line right into the front door of the structure. As firefighters pushed down the hallway they encountered heavy black smoke and heavy fire bearing down the hallway on them.

As crews were attempting to make their way to the second floor to the trapped victim, the individual jumped to the ground, injuring his leg. Police officers and firefighters quickly assisted the individual.

Mohawk Ambulance arrived on scene and transported the injured patient to Albany Medical Center.

As additional units arrived on scene firefighters made their way to the back of the building where heavy fire was blowing out of the second-story windows. Firefighters immediately went up the fire escape to the floor above the fire floor and began to conduct a rapid search of the building. Police officers from the Albany Police Department and Albany Sheriff's Department assisted by getting everyone out of the building on the ground level.

As crews began to knock down the heavily involved first floor, firefighters radioed to command that they were experiencing water problems. Command was receiving reports that there was one person still unaccounted for inside of the building. Firefighters immediately deployed to all floors of the building and began to search. As firefighters called out floor by floor that the floors were clear, Command notified everyone after the final floor was clear and all of the apartments were clear that there was no one in the building. With heavy black smoke still pushing from the back of the building firefighters contin-

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER/SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER/SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY

ued an aggressive interior attack on the fire.

Additional firefighters brought in multiple hand lines to assist with the initial attack team and were quickly able to knock down the fire.

EMTs from Mohawk Ambulance and the Albany FD began to check on all of the fire victims from the building. As firefighters inside of the building brought the fire under control additional firefighters quickly laddered the building and set up positive pressure fans in front of the entranceway on the first floor.

Firefighters from the additional truck company went to the roof to vent, but notified Command that they had a slate roof and were going

to be taking the skylights.

Firefighters were able to bring the fire under control in about 30 minutes. Fire Investigators arrived on scene and began to conduct their investigation into the incident. The apartment building was not sprinklered, and it is not clear at this time if it had a working fire alarm system.

A total of 20 people were left homeless and one person sustained injuries after jumping for his life from the second floor. The fire was caused by a candle, determined by the investigators. No firefighters were injured on scene while battling the fire.

- JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

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THOMAS MARRA

Rollover Crash in Coeymans Hollow

Coeymans Hollow, NY - Emergency crews responded to a report of a rollover accident on Route 32 in the area of Copeland Hill Road around 6:30 P.M. on Sunday, September 27th. Chief Bill Kapusta of the Coeymans Hollow Fire Department said the driver stated that he had dropped his vape pen and reached down to pick it up just before the crash occurred. The car exited the roadway, hit some rocks and then hit the culvert. There was only one occupant in the vehicle, who was given field sobriety tests on the scene by the New York State Police. Trooper Meghan Lohman of New York State Police said in a statement that the crash remains under investigation and no charges have been filed against the driver.

There were no injuries reported.

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

The first line being dragged up to the scene.

STEPHEN WALLACE

South Lockport Battles Fully Engulfed Truck at Walmart Lockport, NY - On October 20th, South Lockport volunteers responded to the report of a vehicle fire located in a driving aisle of Walmart on South Transit Road in the Town of Lockport.

First on scene Deputies and State Police reported a fully engulfed pickup truck near a number of vehicles. South Lockport rolled into the scene with a fully engulfed truck and other vehicles starting to

JUMP TO FILE #102020111 smoke. The crew on the engine quickly geared up and started to pull hoses up to the fire.

The truck was fully engulfed, making it hard for firefighters to get the flames to go out. A final attack through what used to be the front grill into the engine compartment fi-

nally snuffed the flames.

Damage done to other cars parked to the south that had to be sprayed down is not known. The pickup truck was a total loss. Niagara County Sheriff’s Department has the report and South Lockport handled the overhaul.

- STEPHEN WALLACE

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

EUGENE WEBER JR.

This patch belongs to the Esperance Volunteer Fire Department, located in Schoharie County, NY.

New Hartford Fire Department operates a 1998 Spartan/LTI 93' Tower Ladder 2000/200.

FRANK ROBINSON

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER/SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY

Multiple Tractors Destroyed in Brunswick Barn Fire Brunswick, NY - On October 7th, in the middle of the chaos after multiple microbursts devastated parts of Rensselaer County, the Center Brunswick Fire Company with Mutual Aid from Brunswick No.1, Eagle Mills, Raymertown, Speigletown, and the Mountain View Fire Department were dispatched to 342 Carrolls Grove Road for a reported barn fire.

As multiple fire units were responding to the scene, a heavy black and brown column of smoke could be seen from miles away.

Center Brunswick's chief arrived on scene, declared the Signal 30 and requested the second-alarm to be transmitted, bringing the Pittstown Fire Department to the scene with their tanker. Engine 71 arrived on scene within minutes of the dispatch.

Firefighters immediately deployed hand lines and a two-anda-half inch hand line with a blitz fire from the engine to the front of the building. As heavy fire pushed from the roof of the building, firefighters from Engine 7-1 con-

JUMP TO FILE #110620107 ducted an aggressive exterior attack to knock down the heavy fire condition pushing from the building.

Additional firefighters quickly arrived on scene and Engine 7-6 established the water supply at the end of the driveway to feed the scene with water.

Firefighters were quickly able to knock down the heavy fire within 20 minutes of arrival. Firefighters had the grueling task of overhauling the large barn, which contained numerous tractors and other items. Firefighters remained on scene for a large portion of the evening conducting overhaul.

County fire investigators arrived on scene and began to conduct their investigation into the cause of the fire. The fire is still under investigation at this time, and no injuries were reported.

- JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER

JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER/SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY

December, 2020

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December, 2020

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

Man Jumps to Escape House Fire with Explosions in Elsmere Elsmere, NY - A man jumped from a second floor window to escape a fully-involved fire at his Elsmere home on Saturday, October 24th.

Multiple 911 calls began flooding the dispatch center for reports of a structure fire with people trapped inside with multiple explosions coming from the residence at 28 Kenwood Avenue at 11:18 P.M. Assistant Chief Marc Futia of the Elsmere Fire Department arrived on the scene and stated that there were multiple explosions and declared a Signal 30, which indicates a working structure fire. He said he could see the glow in the night sky while responding to the fire.

Futia said, “When you hear that people are trapped and then you pull up and you see it like that, you say to yourself ‘please don’t let there be anyone in there'. Your heart is racing then.”

Futia said that first-arriving units were immediately pushed back from the intense heat.

Three people were inside the house at the time of the fire, with one person jumping from the second floor window. The other two were able to make it out on the first floor.

One person refused medical attention, another suffered smoke inhalation, and the individual who jumped was transported to Albany Medical Center Hospital with lacerations and was later airlifted to the Westchester Burn Unit for damage to the lungs, according to Futia.

There were many difficulties fighting the fire, including a compromised structure, numerous explosions, power lines, koi ponds and

JUMP TO FILE #102620117 deep mud.

All responders were kept back from what is called the “collapse zone” when the garage suddenly collapsed.

“We determined right away that nobody was going into the building,” Futia said. “Because the building was already compromised, you could see the shift and bows in the walls and the walls started moving.”

Futia said the home also doubled as an appliance repair business and components inside the garage helped fuel the fire and caused the explosions. There were propane and acetylene tanks inside the garage, along with ammunition, which led to the numerous explosions.

Two vehicles were in front of the residence which also caught fire and caused more explosions. There were also numerous trees and bushes on fire and Futia said there were more things on the property that were on fire than there were not on fire.

According to Futia, there were a few koi ponds on the property that were hard to see in the dark and a few firefighters fell into them, however, nobody was injured. The large amount of water used caused deep mud puddles, creating difficulties for firefighters walking through with their heavy gear.

National Grid also responded to the scene when the power lines to the residence burned and fell into the front yard.

The Elsmere, Selkirk, Delmar, Slingerlands, North Bethlehem and

Multiple explosions at the scene kept firefighters back.

Onesquethaw Fire Departments responded to the scene, with Onesquethaw and Selkirk having an engine on standby as well.

Ladder trucks from Elsmere, Selkirk and Delmar were placed above the residence and flowed a constant flow of water to knock the fire down. The bulk of the fire was under control in about 25 minutes and mainly knocked down within a few hours.

The Town of Bethlehem Highway Department was called to bring in an excavator to help knock down the structure to allow crews to better extinguish the fire.

Fire crews were called back to the scene Sunday morning after a neighbor called saying the headlights were still on in a car near the property, and they were concerned something could happen to the battery to start another fire. There was also some fire that flared back up in the rear.

There were no injuries to any firefighters on the scene.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation by the Bethlehem Police Department Fire Investigation Team, however, it does not appear suspicious, and appears to have started on the first floor in the rear of the structure in the area of the kitchen, according to Futia.

Futia says one cat was lost in the blaze.

“Just to see how well each fire department in the town worked together--that was nice seeing that,” Futia said.

- THOMAS MARRA

THOMAS MARRA

Firefighters were advised to stay clear of the collapse zone since the structure was deemed unstable.

THOMAS MARRA THOMAS MARRA

The residence was fully-engulfed in flames within minutes.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

December, 2020

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December, 2020

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

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

BOB MCCORMICK

Vails Gate FD Assists New Windsor EMS and Police with Injured Hiker JEFFREY ARNOLD/@FIREPHOTO25

Rochester Fire Department Rescue 11 Group 4 pictured together after working a recent fire on A Place.

Vails Gate, NY - Vails Gate FD was dispatched on October 15th to assist New Windsor EMS personnel and New Windsor Police Officers with a hiker that suffered an ankle injury on Forge Hill Road. Firefighters and EMS personnel placed the injured subject on a stretcher and carried him through rocks and wooded area to the roadway. The patient was then transported to Montefiore/St. Luke's Hospital by New Windsor EMS.

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1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

December, 2020

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December, 2020

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1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

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December, 2020

Port Jervis Remembers Three Fallen Firefighters Port Jervis, NY - Port Jervis Fire Department’s three fallen firefighters were remembered during October’s National Fallen Firefighters Day on October 4th, as they are throughout each year.

The department plans to install a specially crafted bronze recognition plaque at the city’s Fireman’s Memorial, once a plaque base is constructed at the site. The Fireman’s Memorial salutes the service of the nearly 200year-old department’s dedicated allvolunteer firefighting membership and remembers the ultimate sacrifice of three PJFD firefighters in service to others.

Russell D. “Chipper” Howell (8/7/59-8/12/83), Earl John Garrity II (3/5/68-10/4/87), and Frank L. Schips, Jr. (8/10/25-2/4/92) lost their lives as a result of responses in the 1980’s.

PJFD Past Chief Frank Fuller spoke at the time the Fireman’s Memorial was relocated to its current location on lower Pike Street in November of 2017. Fuller stressed strict safety measures followed to keep responders as safe as possible, yet said each firefighter is aware that anything can happen at any time – and that someone could end up not going home.

“It’s not just firefighters in big cities who lose their lives. Unfortunately, it can happen to anyone, at any given time,” Fuller said. Fuller praised the department’s volunteers for their willingness to step up to protect life and property, and to serve their community despite the risks and great amount of time involved.

Frank L. Schips, Jr. (8/10/252/4/92) - Incident Date: 11/3/80 Frank L. Schips, Jr. and his twin brother Ralph were born in Port Chester, NY, August 10, 1925. Their family moved to Illinois, and then in 1943 to Port Jervis. The boys grew up above their parents’ 54 Front Street store, Schips Hardware & Sporting Goods.

Frank joined Neversink Engine Co. #1 soon after moving to Port Jervis. He and Ralph also joined the Port Jervis Fire Police, with Frank later serving as Treasurer for New York State Volunteer Fire Police Association.

Frank married his wife, Mary, a teacher at Sullivan Avenue School, in 1955, raised two children, David and Margot, and later enjoyed being a grandparent.

On November 3, 1980, Frank was directing traffic during a Beach Road fire call. Stationed at the intersection of Hamilton St. and Kingston Ave., he was wearing all appropriate safety gear when he was hit from behind by an 18year-old driver traveling south from Huguenot. Schips sustained severe and lasting damage to his head and back, spent five days in intensive care and 25 days in the hospital, and was extensively bruised for many months. When able to return home, resuming some things he enjoyed, lingering problems and seizures continued. In 1987, he experienced a seizure, cardiac arrest, and went into a lasting coma, never able to communicate again.

“He spent 220 days in the hospital

JUMP TO FILE #110320104 this time, and then went into a nursing home,” Mary recalled. “It was very hard on his twin brother, and on all of us. Our son was 17, and our daughter 15, when their father became 100% disabled. It changed our lifestyle; our entire lives.”

Frank, who was 55 when struck, had been employed at Skydyne in Port Jervis. His wife said she was thankful for Port Jervis having insurance for fallen firefighters since Frank was never able to return to work. She is also grateful for the help and support of the fire department for her family.

Russell D. “Chipper” Howell (8/7/59 – 8/12/83) Russell D. Howell was born in Port Jervis on August 7, 1959, graduated from Port Jervis High School, and joined Excelsior Engine Co. #5 and PJFD’s Dive Team. He served in the U.S. Navy, returning home to work at Kolmar Laboratories and resumed his service as a fireman.

In June of 1982, Howell met Denise Donovan, who also worked at Kolmar.

The two were soon engaged with a wedding planned for October of 1983. On August 12, 1983, Howell called Donovan during a morning work break. They talked about routine things, and made plans to pick up their wedding bands later that day. Howell said he wanted to get back to work and check on his coworker.

“He had a good heart and always looked out for this guy; actually, he always looked out for everyone. He was always ready to help,” said his mom, Eileen Corcoran. “He was good-hearted, loving, and fun, but serious, too, and gentle – never a fighter.”

Newspaper stories written in The Tri-State Gazette detail the tragic workplace accident that shortly after that phone call killed both 24-year-old Howell and his 21-year-old co-worker.

The co-worker, John Brennan, had reportedly fallen through a 24-inch opening into a chemical separation vat containing 30-inches of mixed water, cosmetic chemicals, colorants, and preservatives. Instinctively, upon discovering this situation, Howell paged Kolmar’s nurse -- his tone and urgency summoning additional workers. He then climbed into the tank to attempt a rescue, but slid beneath the slippery liquid surface. Co-workers were able to drain the tank and remove the smaller-sized Brennan, but could not free Howell.

Rescue workers, who arrived on scene within minutes, used a complicated process described by then Chief Robert Dunn to get their brother fireman out.

Four men equipped with breathing apparatus went down one-by-one into an approximately two-feet in diameter hole. They attached a line to Howell’s body, and additional men stationed outside the tank pulled him out 40-minutes later.

Brennan survived until that evening, but Howell was declared dead on scene. Lab reports indicated both had been breathing atmosphere devoid of oxygen prior to collapsing in the tank, a factor in their deaths.

While Howell was not officially on duty as a firefighter upon entering the vat, it was he who began the call for help. As a skilled, active firefighter he took immediate, instinctive action to help another and is remembered for his brave, selfless volunteer service.

For his loved ones, life changed forever in that instant. Donovan has moved on with life, yet never married, never had children, and never lived the life that she and Howell had planned. Kelly Kean, Howell’s older sister, lost her only sibling and uncle to her children. His mother has her son’s last days and moments forever frozen in her mind.

“It wasn’t even a week after his 24th birthday. The night before he died, I made his favorite meal for him – lasagna. I wasn’t able to make it again for years,” recalled Corcoran. “At the time of his accident, I was painting. We had just moved into our house. I heard ambulances and wondered what was going on. Then the phone rang. It was someone from Kolmar telling us we needed to get there quickly. They sent us to the hospital, but I knew he was gone.

It’s never been the same since. There’s always one person missing at Christmas, birthdays, and every holiday and event.”

Corcoran said her fiancé was aware of the risks and danger as a firefighter and rescue volunteer, but he had always felt a strong personal calling to help. He called her after every response, knowing that she worried and had admitted his own sense that if he died young it would be during a rescue call. There was no changing his calling, and Corcoran said she would never have tried.

“It’s what he wanted to do, help people. It’s just who he was,” she said.

Earl J. Garrity II (3/5/68-10/4/87) Earl John Garrity was born March 5, 1968. Named after his dad, he grew up going everywhere with his dad, hunting, fishing, to sporting events – and to the firehouse. As soon as he was of age to do so, Earl John Garrity II followed his dad into volunteer service as a Port Jervis FD firefighter, and as a member of the dive team.

Born in Port Jervis to Earl and Ora Lee Garrity, Earl II was 6'5" tall and excelled in all athletics, as a wrestler, football and basketball player, bowler, and hunter, and had always dreamed of becoming a firefighter. His father remembers him as a child saying he was going to be a firefighter, diver, and high angle rescuer. He planned to go to college, become a police officer, and continue to volunteer as a fireman, all of which in process at the time he was killed.

“We were always together, and he always knew what he wanted. He was strong, but lovable. He loved everybody and wanted to help everyone,” his dad recalled. “After Earl died, I had no interest in anything or anybody. It was a terrible time in our lives, and we miss him so much still.”

Garrity said his wife, who was fighting cancer at the time, did not want their son to respond to the call for mutual aid during the freak snowstorm of October 4, 1987. It was for a motor vehicle with entrapment in neighboring Montague, NJ. “Earl said 'Mom, I’m a fireman. I’m a member of a rescue squad. I have to

Fallen PJFD Firefighter Frank Schips

SHARON E. SIEGEL

Fallen PJFD Firefighter Chipper Howell SHARON E. SIEGEL

SHARON E. SIEGEL

Fallen PJFD FF Earl Garrity, Jr. with his dad and fellow FF Earl Garrity, Sr.

go', and off he went,” his dad recalled of the minutes preceding his son’s death.

“He hit a patch of wet leaves in the snow and slid into the railroad trestle just down the road from our home. The shifting lever hit him, sliced the aortic artery to his heart, and he bled to death within minutes.”

The following year Ora died, leaving behind her son’s still grieving dad and two sisters, Darlene and Dawn.

Thirty years later, the young firefighter’s

family still misses him every single day.

“A quote about Earl in his high school yearbook called him a mountain of a man, and that’s what he was. He was only 19, but he gave his life in the line of duty because he wanted to help others. That’s just who he was. But it’s something the rest of us will never get over,” said his dad.

- SHARON SIEGEL

PAGE 24

December, 2020

Bob Long

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

BOB MCCORMICK

MVA with Possible Injuries in Newburgh

Newburgh, NY - Winona Lake FD was dispatched to an MVA with unknown injuries on October 26th at 56 South Plank Road. Town of Newburgh Police and a flag car from Town of Newburgh EMS were at the scene. Firefighters checked the vehicle for hazards and then returned to service. Occupants involved in the accident were going by private vehicle for medical treatment. Town of Newburgh Police are investigating the cause.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

December, 2020

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1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

Notes from the Fireground ON THE BOOK SHELF

by John Malecky

Notes from the Fireground Memoir of a New York Firefighter

By Thomas Dunne Available from: FSP Books & Videos 188 Central Street, Suite #4 Hudson, MA 01749-1330 1-800-522-8528 E-Mail: support@fire-policeems.com www.fire-police-ems.com Price: $29.95

This is a soft cover book measuring 6” by 9”, with 198 pages.

There are 35 chapters, all of which are very interesting. The author is a retired deputy chief who served 33 years on the job. I also served 33 years in the fire department I was in, and I think we both feel the same about the job…that it was the best job in the world. He comes from a firefighting family and his writing reflects both on the job and family memoirs. Each chapter deals with a single subject so to speak, and for me it was an enjoyable book to read because even though our departments were vastly different in size, there were many common routines and experiences that are similar.

I would say for the most part the book is about when he was a deputy, but there are also chapters that deal from when he was the “new man” up through the com-

pany officer ranks. There are stories dealing with tragedy, which of course are not enjoyable especially when serious injury is involved and life is lost, but the reader, if “on the job”, will go through this book and be able to empathize with the experiences.

There are a number of fires written about both when he was a company officer and chief, including getting into the thick of it as a lieutenant and captain. One chapter is devoted to “buffs” in which there is a slight error with an explanation from me. He stated that buffs were not firefighters. While that is true to distinguish them on the fireground, many firefighters are fire buffs when they are off duty. I figure that in his experience he never ran into any buffs that were also firefighters, career or volunteer, so he was being honest.

While many buffs held menial jobs, many were professionals who earned much more money than firefighters did.

In addition there are memoirs dealing with personalities that he worked with of both good and indifferent natures. Some of the incidents he writes about I remember from the past and he explains them exactly as I remembered being reported, including the Happy Land Social Club arson fire which resulted in the deaths of many young people. He served in many different neighborhoods in busy and not so busy districts, so he was a well rounded firefighter.

There are a number of black and white photos in the book, most of which are of the fireground, including some which were taken by one of 1st Responder News’ correspondents. All in all it is an interesting book to read!

It finally came down to finding the small hidden flames and then the fire was out.

STEPHEN M WALLACE

South Lockport Uses Multiple Mutual Aid Companies for Brush Fire Lockport, NY - South Lockport Fire Company responded to the report of a field fire off of Robinson Road on November 5th.

As equipment rolled out of the hall located just a minute down the road, it was obvious that the wind had turned this into an inferno of flames and smoke. Route 78 by the Value Plaza was at zero visibility due to smoke that was being blown to the east over a mile away. The dry grass and freshly combined corn field of over 100acres was a ripping fire that was heading toward the hedge row. If the flames jumped the hedge row it would hit another patch of fire fuel of dried plowed corn husk.

This time it would lead to a full barn and the Value Plaza shopping center.

The call for a multiple mutual aid alarm went out. Off road trucks and equipment from Terry’s Corners, Wendelville, Wolcottsville, Gasport and Rapids all responded. The Town of Lockport, thankfully, had installed a hydrant way out in the corn field. This allowed the trucks to quickly refill

JUMP TO FILE #110520119 and go.

The flames went east and hit the barbwire dividing fence covered in dry grass, which went up like a Roman candle. The saving grace was on the other side; the land owner had made a driving path which was perfectly mowed and maintained green lush short grass that did not catch. The hedge row to the southeast was still green enough to slow the blaze to give the firefighters a chance at holding the line. From the bypass, over 100-acres had been scorched and if they lost the hedge row line it would be a massive inferno, including a barn.

With over 50 plus years of active firefighting, South Lockport fireman Braden Brooks handled the M10 off road truck, swerving in between flames as his co-pilot hit the fire with the on-the-go water tank on the rear. Wolcottsville sent in their specially trained field fire team, with Wes at

the wheel of their off road pumper.

This crew made quick work of the flames along the hedge row, and the southeast corn field where the flames broke through.

Terry’s Corners used their special equipped water tank ATV to get to hot spots before they got a chance to get ripping. Together, all the firefighters worked the land from foot, trucks and ATVs to stop this inferno. Rapids quickly set up a pumper and a crew by the Value Plaza, so if the fire jumped the line, they had a water wall ready to protect the building.

The wind gust would kick up flames as the trucks went by, but after a few hours the firefighters were able to extinguish the hidden hot spots and douse the fire out.

One hundred acres were burned, but thankfully the crop had already combined the area, preventing a loss of income to any farmers. No firefighters were injured and the smoke dissipated from the surrounding areas.

- STEPHEN WALLACE

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FIERY CRASH CLAIMS LIFE IN MIDDLE ISLAND

SABELLA/ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY 2020

Middle Island, NY - Just before midnight on October 20th, a single-car accident on Rocky Point Road, just north of Whiskey Road in Middle Island, took the life of the driver after the vehicle left the roadway. Firefighters and Police arrived to find a fully engulfed car that had crashed head-on into a tree, with the driver still inside.

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CORPORATE INFORMATION 1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New York edition - Vol. 21 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. Printed in Canada.

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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.

SABELLA/ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY 2020 SABELLA/ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY 2020

Fiery Crash Claims Life in Middle Island Middle Island, NY - Just before midnight on October 20th, a single-car accident on Rocky Point Road, just north of Whiskey Road in Middle Island, took the life of the driver after the vehicle left the roadway. Firefighters and Police arrived to find a fully engulfed car that had crashed head-on into a tree, with the driver still inside. Firefighters extinguished the blaze as quicky as possible, but it was unfortunately too late to save the driver. SCPD 6th Squad detectives and crime scene units responded to investigate the crash.

Fire Rips Through Commerical Building in Wading River

Wading River, NY - On Thursday night, October 29th, a fire ripped through a commercial business on North Cty. Rd. in Wading River. Firefighters from as many as nine departments fought the fire in heavy wind and rain. Firefighters went to tower ladder operations and as a safety measure, area residents were ask to temporarily evacuate the area until the fire was brought under control, which was about one hour into the alarm. The building was totally destroyed.

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.

Additional news from Long Island can be found on our website at www.1rbn.com

SABELLA/ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY 2020

Fully Engulfed Car Halts Traffic in Mastic Mastic, NY - Just after 5:00 P.M. on October 31st, a fully engulfed car fire halted traffic on eastbound Sunrise Hwy. in Mastic, just east of the William Floyd Pwky. Mastic Chiefs arrived to find a white SUV on the shoulder of the roadway with flames and black smoke shooting straight up into the air. The first engine in stretched a line and went to work extinguishing the blaze, quickly knocking it down. SCPD closed the roadway for 30 minutes during the incident.

EUGENE WEBER JR.

This patch belongs to the East Farmingdale Fire Department, located in Suffolk County, NY.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

PAGE 29

December, 2020

LONG ISLAND WOMEN IN FIREFIGHTING If you have photos you would like to see in our Women in Firefighting feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS

Mastic Beach Firefighters putting water on remnants of a shed after it burned down.

Fire Destroys Shed in Mastic Beach JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS

Brookhaven Firefirefighter Sarah Stephani operates at a recent call in Shirley, NY.

Mastic Beach, NY - At around 1:10 P.M. on Sunday, October 4th, the Mastic Beach Fire Department was called to a report of a structure fire on Manor Dr., off William Floyd Pkwy. Assistant Chief McGown (5-13-31), Chief of Department Fred Loiacono (5-13-30), and Captain Louis G (5-13-50) all responded.

As Assistant Chief McGown was pulling on to the fire block, fire-com advised that additional calls reported a shed on fire. McGown advised fire-com as he was arriving to reactivate for the work-

JUMP TO FILE #101120104 ing fire.

Tanker 5-13-2 arrived on scene and the crew stretched a line to the backyard. Firefighters quickly began putting water on the fire in the back of the house. They were joined a short time later by Rescue 4 and also by a crew from Brookhaven.

The fire had quickly burned through the shed, however firefighters were able to prevent it

from spreading to the house and a neighboring home. Members did have to wet down a nearby fence and house next door, as well as the home where the shed was, as the heat had melted some siding on the house.

After using the thermal camera it was determined that the fire did not spread into the home and firefighters were able to take up.

Mastic Beach Ambulance was on scene for support, and Mastic FD stood by for Mastic Beach.

- JOHN WALTHERS

ACTION SHOT JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS

Mastic Firefighters Arrive to Find Involved Auto Shirley, NY - On October 24th at about 8:21 P.M., the Mastic FD was activated for a report of a vehicle fire on Ormond Pl., between Montauk Hwy. & Mastic Blvd. East. Assistant Chief Gene Martucci [5-12-31] arrived on scene about three minutes later and reported back to Fire-Com that he had an involved auto. Shortly after, Chief Rudy Sunderman [5-12-30] arrived and took command. Engine 2 was first due and on their arrival they took the booster line on the front bumper, and after packing up, made an aggressive attack on the fire. Engine 3 arrived on scene and assisted with a secondary line. Firefighters were able to make an aggressive attack and prevent the fire from spreading to anything except a portion of a fence which had caught prior to their arrival. Suffolk County Police 7th precinct officers and Mastic FD Fire Police closed Ormond Pl. at both ends while firefighters operated on scene.

No one was injured during the incident and units began to take up from the scene around 9:00 P.M.

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

A firefighter is loaded onto a stretcher and rushed to an awaiting ambulance following a gas explosion in Meadomere Park on the morning of November 1st.

ALVIN QUILES

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December, 2020

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

LONG ISLAND WORKING FACES If you have photos you would like to see in our “Working Faces” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS

Brookhaven Firefighters, Shirley Ambulance and SCPD all operated at this dirt bike crash on 10/18/20 that seriously injured a teenager.

CONNOR JACOBS

Bellport FD Chief Michael Zaffarano and 1st Assistant Chief David DiDio at the scene of a working house fire.

Teen Seriously Injured in Shirley Dirt Bike Crash Shirley, NY - On October 18th at about 5:20 P.M., the Suffolk County 9-1-1 dispatch center activated the Shirley Ambulance Company and Brookhaven FD for a report of a motor vehicle crash on Victory Ave., near the Sunrise Hwy. entrance ramp. Police and Shirley EMS personnel arrived first and found a two-vehicle crash involving a dirt bike, with the rider still down on the ground.

Under the command of Station

JUMP TO FILE #101920122 One Lieutenant John Hodge, firefighters went to work securing the scene and cleaning up fluids. Rescues 3 and 4, and Engine 9 responded into the scene and made quick work making sure speedy dry was put down and that the BMW that hit the motorcycle was secured.

Fire Police shut down Victory Ave.

heading west while firefighters and EMS operated until an additional police sector car became available to take that post.

The 19-year-old dirt bike rider was taken by ambulance to Long Island Community Hospital with serious injuries. The road was closed for several hours for a crime scene investigation, and both vehicles were impounded for safety checks.

- JOHN WALTHERS

EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES If you have photos you would like to see in our “Emergency Medical Services” feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS

Brookhaven FD Lt. John Hodge, Jr. on scene as mutual aid for a structure fire in Mastic Beach.

FRANKIE VERDERAME

(L to R): Centereach Rescue Co.4 Firefighters Christian and Joel on scene of a smoke detector activation.

JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS

Stony Brook FD EMT Frank Sarno gets ready to work at a reported vehicle fire.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

December, 2020

PAGE 31

LONG ISLAND 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 Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS

CONNOR JACOBS

Brookhaven FD Engine 8 operating at the scene of a smoke detector activation on 10/10/20.

Yaphank FD's ladder operates at a mulch fire in Medford on 10/11/20, with water being supplied by Medford FD's tanker.

Firefighters Operate at Stubborn Mulch Fire in Medford Medford, NY - On Sunday, October 11th at about 3:30 P.M., the Medford FD was activated for a report of a mulch fire at Your Yard Materials on Cedarhurst Ave., off Addison Pl. On arrival, Medford’s Chief found a large pile of mulch burning into the landscaping yard. Based on the size of the pile and the lack of hydrants close to the fire location, the chief requested that Fire-Com activate mutual aids to the scene.

The first resources to be requested to the scene were for ladders from Farmingville and

JUMP TO FILE #101320117 Yaphank, followed by Manorville and Middle Island for tankers which would be used to supply the ladders. Multiple engines were also dispatched to the scene to shuttle water to supply the tankers.

Responding departments included Medford (multiple engines), Yaphank (1 engine and 1 ladder), Manorville (1 tanker), Middle Island (1 engine & 1 tanker), Farmingville (1 ladder and 1 engine),

Holtsville (1 engine to the scene), Ridge (1 tanker), Hagerman (1 engine and 1 ladder), and North Patchogue who stood by for Medford.

Firefighters operated into the evening hours, dousing the mulch piles with water from above while heavy machine operators turned over the pile to minimize any hotspots. The Brookhaven Town Fire Marshal was on scene to assist as well as to investigate.

- JOHN WALTHERS

FRANKIE VERDERAME

Ronkonkoma FD Engine 5 arriving on the scene of a gas leak.

WORKING FACES

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

CONNOR JACOBS

Rocky Point FD Truck 14 operating at a working house fire.

JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS

Lakeland Firefighter Ryan Smith cleans up debris at a vehicle crash on Ocean Ave., near Peconic St. on September 26th.

PAGE 32

December, 2020

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

LONG ISLAND

SABELLA/ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY 2020

The Great Medford Mulch Fire, Part Two Medford, NY - Firefighters from multiple departments responded for the second time on Sunday, October 11th, to a mulch fire off Industrial Road in Medford. Crews arrived on scene around 5:30 P.M. to find the deep seated fire in illegal height piles of mulch and lumber. Chiefs called for tankers, pumpers and tower ladders to respond from multiple mutual aid departments. Multiple engines were shuttling water from hydrants from as far as a half mile away. The second fire of the day was deemed under control about two hours in. No injuries were reported.

Bellport firefighters operate at a small structure fire, 10/12/20.

JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS

Working Structure Fire on Montauk Highway in Bellport Bellport, NY - On October 12th at about 7:15 P.M., the Bellport FD was activated for a report of a structure fire on Montauk Highway, near Doane Ave. On arrival, Bellport Chiefs Michael Zaffaron (5-1-30) and David DiDio found flames showing. Upon size up it was discovered that the building was a small shed like structure, however due to heavy overgrowth on the property, it was determined that an aerial attack was going to be needed.

JUMP TO FILE #101720101 Ladder 13 responded to the scene and set up in front of the fire building. Several engines also responded to the scene. Firefighters were advised to use caution due to low hanging wires. A quick aerial attack was able to smother the bulk of the visible flames, however firefighters needed to get through the thick brush and sift

through the pile to make sure that all fire was out.

Despite the yard being a hangout for homeless at times, no one appeared to be in the structure and no civilians were injured. South Country Ambulance stood by at the scene. SCPD 5th Precinct assisted Bellport Fire Police in closing Montauk Highway in both directions. The job was placed under control around 9:00 P.M. - JOHN WALTHERS

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.

SABELLA/ON SCENE PHOTOGRAPHY 2020

Flip and Flee in Farmingville Farmingville, NY - Farmingville firefighters responded to a rush hour vehicle overturn on Cty. Rd. 83, just south of Horseblock Rd., on October 22nd. Firefighters and police officers pulled up to find an overturned car blocking the right lane, and nobody in or around the car. Firefighters uprighted the car, cleaned up the mess and went home. SCPD did locate the driver a little while later.

JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS

Mastic Beach Firefighters after operating at a shed fire on Manor Dr., October 4th.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

December, 2020

PAGE 33

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December, 2020

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

FDNY

Two Stores Gutted in Bronx Four Alarm Blaze Bronx, NY - A long established cycle shop and a small grocery store were consumed by fire on the night of October 19th in the Wakefield section of the upper Bronx.

At 8:18 P.M., a phone alarm was received for a reported fire in a mo- JUMP TO FILE# torcycle shop at 102020112 4055 White Plains Road. On arrival, the “All Hands” was transmitted for fire throughout a 75'X100' bicycle shop. Members made a push as trucks opened the roof. An additional engine and truck were called for, followed at 8:23 P.M. with a second alarm.

Conditions continued to deteriorate, and at 8:43 P.M., all members were ordered off the roof. A third alarm was transmitted as operations went defensive.

Flames extended to a small one-story grocery store on E. 228th Street. Handlines were stretched into exposure 3, a fivestory brick OMD, and to exposure 4, a three-story brick OMD, to prevent any extension. Eventually, three tower ladders, three handlines and two Multiversals were in operation hitting the fire.

A fourth-alarm was sounded at 10:29 P.M. for additional resources as members were switched out. The fire continued to be darkened down until placed PWH at 10:49 P.M., and under control at 12:52 A.M. The bicycle store and grocery store were completely destroyed.

All exposures were undamaged.

No injuries were reported, and the cause has not yet been determined.

BILL TOMPKINS – WWW.BTFIREPHOTOS.COM

- BILL TOMPKINS

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1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

PAGE 35

December, 2020

FDNY Little things make big changes Chaplain's Corner Didymus McHugh

These are interesting times that we are in. Many times people do not realize how something small will have a major impact on our lives and society.

A major fire may start because of just one spark.

A drop of water on a rock means nothing but if we continually drop water on the same spot of the rock, we will form a hole or possibly split the boulder in two just by using a little water.

Something small can have great impact.

If we catch a medical challenge early enough, we can remove the impact. What would happen if we were able to remove cancerous cells early enough? Or heart disease, diabetes, or other diseases early enough?

We may have a small accident that may impact our lives forever.

We have recently been introduced to how something as small as a germ can effect the entire world.

We may take that germ for granted but how much of an ef-

fect has that had on our lives.

Many people have been thrust into becoming more technologically dependent. How many of us have been forced into isolation? It may feel like we were given a prison sentence, especially for those who lived by themselves before the start of this. How many meetings, these days, are now by looking at a computer? People now visit people by viewing them as if they were watching a television program. People are seeing people that they know through closed windows and birthdays are being celebrated by cars driving by and honking their horns.

People say this is the new normal. Many times after a critical incident, we hear some people say that we need to get accustomed to the new normal. I would say that "normal" is fluid. Life is not stagnant. We do not wear the same size clothes all our life. We do not have the same type of transportation as we did. Do to advances in technology and medicine, the way that we do our job has changed. Firefighters have different advantages and just look at the advances that EMT's, paramedics and the medical field have. Life is ever changing and we need to realize and change with it but also to hold onto the things that are just, right and true.

Over two thousand years ago the world was changed. A little baby was born. He was born in a manger. So many people knew about the prophecy of His life.

Granted many people questioned the miracles that He did and also if He truly was the Son of God. How many people have seen miracles done in His name? How many people had their physical and/or spiritual lives saved because of this baby?

There are many people who call to Him in times of trials. During an illness, after a death, or during a disaster, we may call out to Jesus or God for strength and understanding. This little baby is where so many people draw strength from. The Lord came to us in a way that was not intimating to people. Can you imagine how the people would have reacted if He came down from Heaven on a cloud? People would probably have passed out. They would have been overcome with His presence.

Let us not just dismiss something that is small and, to us, unimportant. It may not be what it is right now but the potential, the unwrapped gift that it truly may be.

Stay safe,

Didymus McHugh didymus-mchugh.com

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

FDNY Training Academy apparatus.

SHANE SHIFFLETT

MEMORIAL BOARD If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Memorial Board� feature please upload them on our website www.1RBN.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

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 Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

RON JEFFERS

FDNY Engine Co. 66, with their 2016 KME 2000-GPM pumper, turn out to an alarm on a warm November day.

SHANE SHIFFLETT

An FDNY firefighter's memorial statue, located in Manhattan.

PAGE 36

December, 2020

1ST Responder Newspaper - NY

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