VOLUME XLIV, NO. 2
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Since 1973 OCTOBER 2016
Full story on page 42. - Fire News photo by Eddie Coppa
Fire News Welcomes All To NYSAFD and Firehouse Expo
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Fire News, October 2016, Page 3
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In this issue... A Service for Long Island Firefighters and EMS Heroes
4 Days, 2 Fires Same Block Copiague firefighters make quick work of a house fire ... in a familiar location. See story page 10
Multiple Vehicle Fires in E. Farmingdale An initial call of a truck fire tuurns into a fire on a lift, two more trucks and two structures. See story page 22
Quick Work in Deer Park Firefighters make a fast knockdown on a fully involved car. See story page 33
Fatality in N. Lindehurst MVA A sedan hits a pickup, pinning the pickup driver who, despite quick work by responders, dies. See story page 45
Juniors, Juniors and More Juniors What’s happening in the world of junior firefighters. See pages 68 and 84 to 86
Obituaries Bohemia’s Crocci; Pt. Lookout-Lido’s Meyer; Port Jefferson’s Persson; Lynbrook’s Gleason and McDermott; Nesconset’s Puleo; See pages 109-113 Mastic’s Jones
Founded 1973
146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713 FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher TIM EDWARDS, Executive Editor DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor GARY P. JOYCE, Asst. Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production/Sales LYNN SEDLER, Art Director CLIFF CHIESA, Production Manager Advertising Sales: BARBARA CONNOLLY, EVELYN ALOISIO Graphic Artist: GREG JONES, JEB LADOUCEUR, Publisher Emeritus CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: Vinnie Ammirati, Tim Asbell, Bill Bennett, Chris Brenner, Jeff Bressler, Kirk Candan, Wayne Carrington, Amanda Coffey, Ed Coppa, Bill D'Alessandro, Mike DesCalso, Jim Dunn, Larry Fox, Lee Genser, Myron Goldstein, Bryan Gosik, Brian Grogan, Steve Grogan, Mike Guarino, Daniel Gunther, Michael Gunther, Stephanie Handshaw, Jeff Havlik, Jack Healy, Branden Heller, Michael Heller, Christine Heeren, Robert Holley, Cody Hoyle, Kevin Imm, John Ippolito, Kate Kuntz, Joe Lapietra, Richard Lewin, Bryan Lopez, Harry Loud, Kurt Ludwig, Brad Maier, John Mancino, Paul Mazza, Terry McCarrick, Lou Minutoli, Ron Monteleone, Jim Mooney, Ilene Morris, Michael Murphy, Charles A. Murphy, Mike Oppedisano, John Neely, Phil Orlando, Robert O'Rourk, Francis "Sid" Parkan, Kevin Parkan, Tom Pesce, Kevin Peterson, Jackson Pokress, Jerry Presta, Myles Quinn, Jerry Rudolph, Dave Rubin, Jim, Rugen, AJ Ryan, Steve Schaefer, Drew Silverman, Steve Silverman, Joe Sperber, Rich Stark, JoAnn Stephani, Andrew Tetreault, Brian Thomas, Ed Tuffy, Joe Virgilio, Dennis Whittam, Cameron Wilken, Michael Wiwczar, John Wladyka, Jr. COLUMNISTS: Jeff Bailes, Paul Hashagen, Bruce Johnson, John Salka, Billy Goldfeder, Danny Peluso, Bradley Pinksy, Tom Rinelli COPYRIGHT 2016, THE FIRE NEWS LLC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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Letters to the Editor, byline articles, and columns represent the opinions of the writers and photographers and are not necessarily the views of the Fire News. We reserve the right to edit all of the above. We are not responsible for errors in advertisements beyond the cost of advertising space. Copy submitted is subject to editing for space requirements. The placing of an advertisement in this publication does not constitute endorsement. Contents are copyrighted. Editorial and advertising copy cannot be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Fire News is published monthly by Fire News LLC, with corporate offices at 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713.
44 Years of Excellence As you know, Fire News is in its 44th year of publication. If you have any stories, photos and good memories from the past, please send them to LI@FireNews.com.
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
Fire Prevention; Is It Working? As we move from summer into fall, my mind shifts over to the many activities of which all fire departments are part. Yes, it is the time of year our children go back to school. I can still remember when my own children ventured off to college. As a dad, I was truly happy to watch the enthusiasm that my two girls had to go away for the first time and live on their own in a college dormitory. Another side of me was nervous. I still remembered the fatal Seton Hall fire that claimed the lives of three students and injured many more. Statistics show that from 2000 to 2014, 89 fatal fires have been documented that occurred on a college campus, in Greek housing or in off-campus housing within three miles of the campus, claiming a total of 126 victims: 76 in off-campus housing claiming 107 victims, seven fires in oncampus building or residence halls claiming nine victims, and six in Greek housing claiming 10 victims. The good news is that, thanks to our Fire Safety Educators, Juvenile Arson Awareness Programs and to our fire marshals
and community fire departments, 2015 was the first year that there were no fatal fires on college campuses. All of the programs in which your fire service is involved help prevent fires and save lives. Is your department fire prevention program ready to go into action? In the past, I urged everyone to evaluate their Fire Safety Education Program. I still urge you to have one of your county or town fire safety organizations review your program to make sure you are doing the right thing. Children can get mixed messages when they come to the firehouse and watch firefighters set fires and put them out. Educators are aware of the pitfalls of “negative teaching” to get a point across. I worry that someday there will be a student who will see a firefighter set a car on fire and, while being mesmerized by the flames, think that that was the purpose of the demonstration. It is important to show the community our equipment and apparatus, but it is more important to make sure your audience knows
that when a smoke alarm or carbon monoxide alarm goes off they need to act in a specific way. At the end of the day, whether the community comes to the firehouse or you go out to the community to teach fire safety, the result should be the same. Everyone must understand “stop drop and roll,” how to “get out alive” and what to do when the smoke or CO alarm sounds. Every year, departments do outstanding job teaching fire safety awareness. Is your program working? Statistics are showing that it is. Keep up the good work! Dennis
ANNOUNCEMENTS CENTRAL ISLIP FIRE PREVENTION WEEK
The Central Islip Fire Department will be holding its annual fire prevention week open house on Friday, October 14, 2016, from 1830 to 2100. This annual event will be held at C FD Station 2 at 110 Wheeler Road, in Central Islip. There will be many fire prevention displays and demonstrations, a free child ID program, as well as many giveaways and fire safety educational materials. All are invited to this informative and fun filled evening. For more information call 631-484-0612, or visit our website: centralislipfd.com.
HUNTINGTON ENGINE 1 HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR
The Huntington Fire Department Engine Company 1 will present Halloween Spooktacular: Nightmare on Leverich on Octobwew 29, 2016. The nights scary activities kick off at 1830 and continue until 2300 at the Huntington Fire Department, ?located at 1 Leverich Place in Huntington. Tickets are $35 pre-sale and $40 at the door. Music will be by the Knomad Band, there will be a costume contest, raffle baskets and 50/50 raffles, along with a catered dinner with beer, wine and soda included. For tickets contact 631-236-6991.
PERSONALITY BASED TERROR RESPONSE
As we all watched on September 17, 2016,
as firefighters and emergency service personnel responded to the an explosion in NYC, we once again observed the new normal — the possibility of a terror event. Hopefully, by now you have been able to listen to the radio traffic of this event. If not the link to the scanner traffic is: tinyurl.com/zbpkgd4. It’s not sent as entertainment but to ask the question to all of us ... are we anywhere near as ready as FDNY, FDNY EMS and NYPD are to respond to such an event as they did? In most cases, the answer is no. And, while some would respond back and say that they aren’t as big as the FDNY, don’t have the resources, etc., — they would only be partially correct. While NO fire department is as big and as resource-full as FDNY, we all do have access to the many resources they do on a — regional basis — by planning ahead. Listen to the radio traffic and you’ll hear how many resources were pulled together immediately. Sure, it’s a little easier when you are “one” fire department, but it can be done by any department — regionally — if we want to. Doing that however, would also require dropping some baggage we carry. Things such as personality-based mutual aid, territorialism, blindfolds, the “we don’t need them here,” and “they suck” attitudes, radios that STILL cannot talk to each other, the lack of standard policies, the lack of fire command standards and the lack of fire service respect ... things like that. It would require all leaders and members to actually focus on what’s best for the public, what’s best for the firefighters (leadership, training and resources) and not what’s best for fire-based egos, personal interests, game play-
ing and attitudes. I am generally very positive but I’m also a realist and when I see (and you see) that some areas still can’t get coordinated, organized to plan for, train and send what’s needed and do what’s best for a standard dwelling fire, it is scary to think how the terror incident will go when it happens. If we can’t manage command, control, accountability and discipline at a single-family dwelling fire, we don’t have a chance in hell in having any success when the terrorists do what they do. Consider two things when listening: 1 - Listen with pride at how prepared FDNY and NYPD are - and why they are. 2 - Question whether your communities could come even close to pulling this kind of response together as quickly and as organized as NYC units did? Again, the radio traffic can be found at: tinyurl.com/zbpkgd4. - Chief Billy Goldfeder
WHERE ARE YOUR DEPARTMENT'S PHOTOS?
We are always happy to receive photos and stories from departments who have never been in our paper. Feel free to e-mail your photos to LI@fire news.com. Photos should be high resolution (300 dpi or better) and not retouched, cropped, altered or reduced. Please send two to four photos per incident. Also, include a brief write-up of the incident, event, or family news, which includes basic “who, what, when, and where information.” - Ed.
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Fire News and Firehouse Expo 2016 Outstanding Leadership Award Recipients New York City firefighter Ray Pfeifer and Fire Chief Eric Greaser, from the Flower Mound, (TX) Fire Department have been named recipients of the 2016 Fire News Outstanding Leadership Award. The awards will be presented at Firehouse Expo at 1500. on Friday, October 21, 2016, at the Music City Center in Nashville. Both fire service veterans were nominated by their colleagues who indicated that they have gone the extra mile to make a difference in the lives of others. Their efforts have not only helped improve the fire departments they serve, but the future of the fire service. “These leaders have continued to give selflessly of themselves by putting the needs of others first. They are representatives of the men and women of our nation that go the extra step to make a difference in the lives of others,” stated Tim Edwards, Editor of Fire News. Ray Pfeifer has demonstrated courage, dedication and tenacity while battling stagefour cancer contracted from his tireless efforts at Ground Zero, yet he is still advocating for his colleagues in the fire service. Pfeifer was instrumental in getting legislation enacted to help all firefighters suffering from 9/11-related illnesses and, on Dec. 18, 2015, saw President Obama sign the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act. This reopened the Victim Compensation Fund for those who suffered injuries or death as a result of 9/11
Eric Greaser
Ray Pfeifer
and it’s after effects. Eric Greaser has been pivotal in transforming the Flower Mound Fire Department both organizationally and operationally. Greaser’s leadership has forged meaningful relation-
ships within the city and across other public safety agencies in the region. He is dedicated to the development of all fire department personnel and has brought the pride of being a firefighter into the department.
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N. Merrick House Fire Early on August 19, 2016, Nassau County Firecom took numerous calls reporting a house fire on Nancy Boulevard in North Merrick. Upon the arrival of Chief of Department Rogers, there was heavy fire showing from the exposure-3 first floor, extending to the second floor. Engine 671 arrived and stretched two lines, North Bellmore Ladder 6544 arrived and was replaced by Merrick Ladder 6411 as the FAST. North Merrick Ladder 673 arrived and along with the crew of 6544, laddered vented and searched the house. The fire was knocked down and brought under control within an hour. Additional mutual aid came from Merrick, Roosevelt, Bellmore (ambulance), East Meadow (ambulance) and the Bellmore-Merrick Ambulance Corps. Units from Freeport and Belmore stood by. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Westbury Comm’l. Fire The Westbury Fire Department was dispatched for a report of smoke on September 9, 2016. First Assistant Chief Gass arrived and found smoke coming from Rufis Plaza Grocery on Maple Avenue. Engine 965 was first due and stretched two lines with one going into operation. The crews from Ladder 962, and Engines 967 and 969 made entry into the store and a roll-up door on the exposure two side and checked the building for extension. The fire was quickly brought under control and contained to the one store. Chief of Department Bartunek was in charge of the scene. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Fast Work in Hempstead Hempstead firefighters went to work early on August 31, 2016, after a fire broke out in a small commercial garage in the rear of a Front Street address. Units were quickly on the scene to extinguish the blaze and secure the area. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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N. Patchogue Brush Fire
On August 30, 2016, the North Patchogue Fire Department was activated for a brush fire in a area of some woods off Ohls Street. Upon arrival, commanding units found an 800- x 300-foot area of woods burning. Mutual aid was requested from Medford and Holtsville. - Fire News photos by Bryan Lopez
West Hempstead Fire Stopped Recently, the West Hempstead Fire Department was toned out for a house fire on Woodfield Road. The first chief arrived to find the side of the house on fire. Firstdue Engine 763 picked up a hydrant in front of the house and evacuated the house. Chief Lilli was in charge. - Fire News photos by Bill D’Alessandro
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Medford Storage Fire
On August 14, 2016, the Medford Fire Department was activated Yaphank and Holtsville. The fire was quickly knocked down withfor a reported commercial structure fire at the Winter Brothers out further incident. Command requested a fire marshal to the storage facility on Peconic Avenue. Upon arrival, Chief 5-14-31 scene for an investigation. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez found heavy smoke showing and requested mutual aid from
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4 Days, 2 Fires, Same Street. Hmmm?
The Copiague Fire Department responded to a house fire on East Gate on August 28, 2016. Second Assistant Chief Rosenberg arrived to smoke showing from the second floor. Engine 1-3-7 stretched two lines, and Ladder 1-34 set up in front, laddered, searched and vented. The fire was contained to one room. Lindenhurst was requested for RIT. This was the second fire on the street in four days. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
FF Injured at Bay Shore Blaze The Bay Shore Fire Department was called to a fire at a building housing a convenience store for a gas station and a car wash on Sunrise Highway early on August 22, 2016. Firefighters arrived to find heavy smoke coming from the building and located the fire inside the store. It took about an hour to bring the fire under control with both businesses heavily damaged. Mutual aid came from West Islip and Brentwood, while Islip stood by at Bay Shore. One firefighter was transported to Southside Hospital by Bay ShoreBrightwaters Ambulance Corps. with non-life threatening injuries. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
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Accident Investigations and the Safety Officer (part 1) According to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1561 accident investigations are to be performed by the Safety Officer (SO) in most cases. We will discuss when the SO does not get involved. The term “accident” can be defined as “an unplanned event that interrupts the completion of an activity, and that may (or may not) include injury or property damage.” Reasons to investigate an accident or close calls include: • most importantly, to find out the cause of accidents and to prevent similar accidents in the future; • to fulfill any legal requirements; • to determine the cost of an accident; • to determine compliance with applicable safety regulations; • to process compensation claims. Investigation should commence immediately. This is important to obtain maximum information. The best way to start an investigation is to have all your investigative tools in place prior to the accident. (Many of the necessary forms can be found on the internet) • Camera • Copies of all SOPs, regulations, • Marking pens, pencils, paper Chief orders and Resolutions • Flashlight • Measuring tapes • Training and investigation schooling • Erasure board A sample checklist minimally should answer the following questions: • damage to equipment • List of vehicles involved, first • housekeeping of area responders involved • weather conditions • positions of injured workers • lighting levels • equipment being used • noise levels • materials or chemicals being used • time of day • safety devices in use “When accidents are investigated, the emphasis should be concentrated on finding the root cause of the accident rather than the investigation procedure itself so you can prevent it from happening again. Addressing underlying or root causes is necessary to truly understand why an incident occurred, to develop truly effective corrective actions, and to minimize or eliminate serious consequences from similar future incidents the purpose is to find facts that can lead to actions, not to find fault. Always look for deeper causes. Do not simply record the steps of the event.” (Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety) April 2006. Support should be given to the investigator. If the accident is serious, federal, state and local authorities will get involved. The accident investigation process involves the following steps: • Report the accident occurrence to a designated person within the organiza-
tion; • Provide first aid and medical care to injured person(s) and prevent further injuries or damage; • Investigate the accident; • Identify the causes; • Report the findings • Develop a plan for corrective action; • Implement the plan; • Evaluate the effectiveness of the corrective action; • Make changes for continuous improvement. According to Dodson 3rd Edition Fire Department Incident Safety Officer 2016 (P237), “five (5) areas are part of the accident chain and should be investigated, Environment, Equipment, Human Factors, Event, and Injury.” Facts are collected, interview eye witness accounts, injured parties, damage to equipment, pictures of the scene from surrounding cameras. SOs should not do the investigation if they were the party injured, they were directly involved in the damage, a Line of Duty Death occurred,or multiple and serious injuries occurred. Question from FDSOA exam and answers 5. When is it appropriate for the ISO to recuse themselves from the investigation process? A. The ISO is the one injured B. The ISO was directly involved in the property damage C. Multiple, significant injuries to firefighters occurred D. All of the above 6. The process of minimizing the chance, degree, or probability of damage, loss or injury is known as_____________ A. Risk management B. Laws of probability C. Happenstance D. Safety Awareness Answers from August issue: question 3-D Hazards Energy (page 105) Question 4-E Hot Zone (page119) David Dodson 3rd Edition (The Safety Officer). October Issue (this issue) answers 5. D (page 237) and 6.A (page 27) Ex-Chief Jeff Bailes President Brookhaven Town Safety Officers Association, Inc. 631-495-1313
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5 Displaced in Hempstead Fire
Quick Work in Lakeview
At least five people were displaced after a late night house fire in the Village of Hempstead on August 31, 2016. Hempstead firefighters were called to Amherst Street and found flames shooting from the second floor and attic of the home. The occupants of the house were able to escape to safety without serious injury. Red Cross representatives were called to assist the residents. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
The Lakeview Fire Department responded to a stove fire in a home on Langdon Boulevard on August 21, 2016. There was minor extension to the structure, but the blaze was quickly extinguished. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Hot Door in Hempstead The Hempstead Fire Department responded to a reported apartment fire on Terrace Avenue on August 27, 2016. Firefighters found a ‘hot door’ on the first floor and quickly made entry to extinguish the blaze. Nassau County Fire Marshals were called to the scene. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Thanks for the Help. Not.
The West Hempstead Fire Department was called to a Woodfield Road home early on August 27, 2016. A small fire was located on the exterior of the house with some slight extension inside. The cause of the fire was deemed suspicious and Fire Marshals were summoned to the scene. The photo of the hydrant shows a metal pipe that the homeowners had installed as a driveway guide. Although it did not block the hydrant outlets, it did prevent a hydrant wrench from spinning completely around and therefore delayed water to the apparatus. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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North Massapequa House Fire The North Massapequa Fire Department was called to a house fire on North Hickory Street on the afternoon of August 27, 2016. Third Assistant Chief Frascella arrived to find fire on the second floor of the two-story home. Chief of Department Ferrara arrived and took command. First Assistant Chief Pesale arrived and, with Chief Frascella, handled the fire attack. Engine 665 arrived, followed by Ladder 661 and Engines 663 and 662. Two lines were stretched. It took about 30 minutes to bring the fire under control. Mutual aid came from Massapequa and Seaford. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Hempstead Fire On August 31, 2016, the Hempstead Fire Department responded to a working fire on Amherst Street. - Fire News photo by Bill D’Alessandro
Bistro Blaze in Massapequa On September 8, 2016, the Massapequa Fire Department responded to a fire at a bar/restaurant on Merrick Road off of Hicksville Road. Third Assistant Chief Monjudo along with Engine 6315 and Ladder 632 arrived to find fire in the basement of the building. Chief of Department Beneville took command. Ladders from Seaford, Wantagh and North Massapequa, along with engines from South Farmingdale and Bellmore also responded; Farmingdale and Bethpage covered. The fire was mostly contained to the basement. - Fire News photo by Ed Tuffy
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Thanks, We Got It On August 26, 2016, the Plainview Fire Department received multiple calls for a house fire on Nautilus Drive. Arriving crews found an exterior fire knocked down by police units, but the fire had extended to a second floor room and attic area. The fire was quickly contained and held to the room and attic. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
Close Call With Brush Fire On August 4, 2016, the West Sayville Fire Department was activated for a brush fire at the rear of Cypress Lane. Upon arrival, commanding units found a large area of brush burning, fueled by strong winds. Mutual aid was requested from Sayville, Bohemia, Great River, Islip Terrace, Holbrook, Bayport and Blue Point for brush trucks and fireboats. The fire burned for hours, coming close to some area houses before being placed under control. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
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Huntington Manor Car Fire On August 21, 2016, the Huntington Manor Fire Department responded to a fully involved car fire in the parking lot of the South Huntington Library on Pidgeon Hill Road in South Huntington. Crews, using two engines, quickly extinguished the blaze under the command of Assistant Chiefs Mike DePasquale, Jon Hoffmann and Chuck Brady. - Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
Brookhaven House Fire On September 13, 2016, the Brookhaven Fire Department was activated for a reported residential structure fire on Merrick Road. Upon arrival, commanding units were met with heavy smoke and visible flames. Mutual aid was requested from Mastic, Ridge, Bellport, Hagerman and Center Moriches. Multiple attack lines were put into operation as crews aggressively attacked the blaze. Command requested a fire marshal and arson squad to the scene for an investigation. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Electrical Fire in St. James The Saint James Fire Department responded to a reported house fire on Lincoln Avenue on August 11, 2016. Upon arrival, firefighters discovered an electrical fire had started in an air conditioning unit on the second floor. Quick action by firefighters contained the fire to its area of origin. Mutual aid came from Nesconset. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
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Adult Home Fire
On August 2, 2016, the Ronkonkoma Fire Department was activat- knocked down prior to units’ arrival by the home’s staff. First-due ed for a residential structure fire at the Hertlin House Adult Home units checked for extension. No injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez on Portion Road. Suffolk County Police units were first to arrive on scene and advised FRES of an active fire. The fire was quickly
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Winter Operations A fire police unit’s primary concern is to provide scene safety and security, with safety of members a priority. The responsibility of positioning fire police and police department vehicles is generally that of the first emergency service units on the scene They are the first responders encountered on approach to a scene by civilian vehicles and additional responders. Fire police members are almost always in the elements performing their assignment. In normal weather conditions it is inherently hazardous, but in the winter the level of danger is compounded by several factors. Ice and snow covered roadways greatly inhibit the ability of vehicles to stop or to divert safely around an incident. SAFETY CONSIDERATION: use of additional warning devices (signs, lights, flares, department vehicles). Begin the safety zone or road closure further than normal and well away from department vehicles. Preferably on a straight/flat surface with a good line of sight. High-speed areas and steep grades and curves warrant extra caution and should be avoided. Reduced road, shoulder and median size. Snow banks on roadway shoulders and edges force emergency vehicles to position directly on the roadway, reducing the area for the placement of department vehicles, exposing firefighters as well as reducing safe areas for the diverting of traffic. There is often no room to funnel traffic around the scene or across a median. SAFETY CONSIDERATION: consider entire road closures at a point where traffic is able to safely divert onto an alternate roadway. If you allow traffic to pass, be forceful and explicit with your commands as to how and where they are to proceed. Cold and extreme weather. Prolonged exposure to winter conditions while operating outside can reduce a member's mental awareness to surroundings and ability to react effectively. Slippery conditions decrease mobility of the member around the scene or the ability to react to danger. SAFETY CONSIDERATION. Clothing and safety gear appropriate for the season and weather; coats, gloves, footwear, and headwear for warmth and visibility. Limit exposure to weather by frequent rotation of manpower to a warm vehicle or sheltered area. Tools and Equipment /Pre-plan Ensure apparatus is properly fueled, with windshield washer/antifreeze level full. Make sure proper personal gear for weather conditions is aboard including but not limited to additional gloves, warm head covering, coat/vest, footwear with slip resistant treads. Place additional items in firehouse or vehicle prior to response. A square edge shovel placed in vehicle in case vehicle becomes stuck or for placing traffic control signs/cones. Snow brush/scraper to clear off windshield. Tony D’Angelo has 35 years in the fire service. He was a member of the Fire Department of New York from 1981 to 2004, a Lieutenant with the Fire Department of New York from 2000 to 2004, a member of the MSFD since 1994 to the present and a member of the MSFD Fire Police since 2005. He is also a Training Officer with the Brookhaven Town Fire Police Association and holds various fire certifications.
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E. Farmingdale Multiple Vehicle Fires
The East Farmingdale Fire Company was called to All Island Irrigation on Central Avenue early on August 25, 2016, for a reported truck fire. Third Assistant Chief Welliver arrived and found one truck and a hydraulic lift fully involved and two other vehicles
starting to burn. First Assistant Chief Joseph arrived and took command. The fire also damaged two buildings and is the second fire in the same location since November 2014. The cause of the fire is under investigation. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
1 Dead, 1 Hurt in Southold MVA
On September 3, 2016, the Southold Fire Department was dispatched for an MVA with entrapment. Responding units found a two-car collision in the vicinity of Williamsburg Drive with one driver deceased and the other severely entangled within her vehicle. Chief James Rich immediately called for a Suffolk County Police medevac helicopter to respond and for Cutchogue to provide stand-
by ambulance coverage. Under the direction of Chief Rich and Assistant Chief Goldsmith, Southold’s Heavy Rescue Team spent over 90 minutes carefully peeling the vehicle away from the trapped driver so that she could be transported via Southold Ambulance to Station Two for the flight to the trauma unit at Stony Brook University Hospital. -Fire News photo by Edward Boyd
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M-LFD Hits Car Fire
On September 7, 2016, Manhasset-Lakeville Fire Department ly and confirmed a fully involved car fire at the main entrance of Company 2 was dispatched to Community Drive, North Shore the hospital. E8725 responded and quickly extinguished the fire. - Fire News photo by Lee Genser University Hospital, for a reported car fire. Chief of Department Kiess and Deputy Chief Mazurkiewicz both responded immediate-
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Quick Job in Brentwood
On August 22, 2016, the Brentwood Fire Department was activated first-due units and no injuries were reported. Command requested for a reported residential structure fire on Perry Street. Upon a fire marshal to the scene for an investigation. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez arrival, commanding units found smoke showing and flames visible from the exposure 3 side. The fire was quickly knocked down by
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Want Fries With That? In the early morning hours of September 1, 2016, the Farmingville Fire Department was activated for a reported vehicle fire on North Ocean Avenue in front of the McDonald’s. The crew of first-due Engine 2 made a quick knock down. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Car Fire Damages Cars, Bldg. The Copiague Fire Department was alerted for a car fire at the Bunt Commons Condominium complex on Warburg Avenue on the afternoon of August 7, 2016. Engine 1-3-10, returning from a previous alarm, saw smoke visible from a distance. Unit 1-3-10 and First Assistant Chief Fitch arrived to find an SUV involved in the parking lot, threatening two other vehicles and the building. Lines were stretched and the fire was knocked down in about 10 minutes with two other vehicles and the building damaged. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
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Not Exactly a Good Time for a Fire In the early evening of August 13, 2016 the Amityville Fire Department was alerted for house fire on Norman Avenue. Third Assistant Chief Budde arrived to find a two-story home well involved. First Assistant Greey arrived shortly after and took command. The alarm came in as Amityville members were about to begin a fundraiser for a member who is a cancer survivor. There were standby units in house from Farmingdale and Mineola. They were followed in by Amityville units. The fire took about 30 minutes to bring under control, there were no reported injuries and the cause was under investigation. Additional mutual aid came from Massapequa and Copaigue. Units from South Farmingdale and North Lindenhurst stood by at Amityville. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Quick Knockdown in Selden On July 31, 2016, the Selden Fire Department was activated for a kitchen fire on Oakdale Avenue. Upon arrival, Chief Michael Matteo was met with heavy smoke and visible flames from the home. Mutual aid was requested from Centereach and Farmingville. The fire was quickly knocked down without further incident. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
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North Massapequa House Fire
The North Massapequa Fire Department was called to a house fire on North Hickory Street on August 27, 2016. Third Assistant Chief Frascella arrived to find fire on the second floor of a two-story home. Chief of Department Ferrara arrived and took command. First Assistant Chief Pesale arrived and with Chief Frascella handled the fire attack. Engine 665 arrived, followed by Ladder 661 and Engines 663 and 662. Two lines were stretched. It took about 30 minutes to bring the fire under control. Mutual aid came from Massapequa and Seaford. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
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Quick Work in Deer Park
On September 2, 2016, the Deer Park Fire Department responded to a fully involved vehicle fire on the corner of Evergreen Place and Nichols Road. Deer Park’s first-due Engine 1-4-6 and nozzleman Dan Jacob and the crew made quick work of the car fire. - Fire News photos by BTFirePhotos.com
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W. Babylon Pickup Fire
The West Babylon Fire Department was called to a reported vehicle Schumann and Sullo arrived with Engine 1-9-2. The crew from 1fire at 5th Street and 3rd Avenue late on August 13, 2016. Third 9-2 put one line into operation and had the fire extinguished in Assistant Chief Vergano arrived to find a pickup involved parked about 10 minutes. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza on the side of the street. First and Second Assistant Chiefs
West Hempstead MVA On August 25, 2016, an SUV lost control on Hempstead Avenue near Walton Street, struck a parked car, a traffic signal pole, and a parking sign before coming to a halt. A small fire was extinguished and the driver suffered only minor injuries. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Fire News, October 2016, Page 35
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Page 36, Fire News, October 2016
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EMS ACROSS THE ISLAND
Cantiague Rock Road Technical Rescue
On August 27, 2016, the Hicksville Fire Department responded to a quet to control the bleeding as Tower Ladder 936 set up and technical rescue on Cantiague Rock Road. A worker atop a 15-foot removed the man in a Stoke’s basket. The aided was transported to - Fire News photos by Kevin Imm high wood pile cut his leg with a chain saw. Medics applied a tourni- NUMC by police ambulance.
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Serious MVA in Roslyn
The Roslyn Fire Department was on the scene of a serious twovehicle accident at the intersection of Glen Cove Road and I.U. Willets Road on July 14, 2016. Both vehicles were heavily damaged with one rolling over several times. At least two people were injured and transported to area hospitals. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
N. Lindenhurst MVA
The North Lindenhurst Fire Department was alerted for an MVA with reported entrapment at North Wellwood Avenue and Laurel Street on August 18, 2016. Suffolk County Police were on scene and confirmed one person trapped. A car had struck a utility pole after another car reportedly cut it off then hit it, sending it onto the curb and into the pole. The other car fled the scene. Firefighters removed the passenger door and extricated the driver in about 10 minutes and he was taken to Good Samaritan Hospital. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
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Dix Hills Medevac on the LIE The Dix Hills Fire Department responded to an MVA involving a motorcycle and police vehicle on the Long Island Expressway near exit 51, on August 24, 2016. Dix Hills Rescue Squad EMTs assisted the injured motorcyclist and police officer. The motorcyclist was transferred to a Suffolk Police medevac, and was airlifted to Stony Brook University Hospital. The officer was transported to Huntington Hospital by Dix Hills Ambulance. - Fire News photos courtesy Dix Hills FD
Too Much Water
Elmont firefighters and Nassau County police were needed to res- Valley Stream on August 20, 2016, during a heavy rain. The roadcue two motorists trapped in their vehicle by rising water under the way was shut down in both directions until the water receded. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com Central Avenue overpass of the Southern State Parkway in North
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Holtsville MVA On August 14, 2016, the Holtsville Fire Department was activated for an MVA with reported overturn at the intersection of Express Drive North and Waverly Avenue. Upon arrival, Chief Mike Escue advised incoming units that all occupants were self extricated. The crew of Rescue 4 secured both vehicles, and both drivers were transported to Stony Brook University Hospital via a Holtsville Ambulance for minor injuries. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Coates Ave. MVA On August 20, 2016, the Holbrook Fire Department was activated for an MVA with reported overturn on Coates Avenue. Upon arrival, Chris Heinsenn 315-31, advised incoming units of a two-car MVA with overturn and negative entrapment. The vehicle was up-righted and secured by crews. One driver was transported to a nearby medical facility for minor injuries. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
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Upside Down in Hempstead Hempstead firefighters and EMS personnel were on the scene after a female driver lost control of her vehicle, struck a parked car, and overturned on Baldwin Road near East Marshall Street in Hempstead on August 15, 2016. She was transported to an area hospital by fire department ambulance. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Copiague Overturn The Copiague Fire Department responded to a single-car accident at South Strongs Avenue and Montauk Highway on August 29, 2016. A driver of a sedan lost control of the vehicle, struck the curb, a decorative rock and overturned. There were three people in the vehicle and only one suffered minor injuries and was taken to Good Samaritan Hospital. The vehicle was secured and up righted by the crew from 1-3-3 and a large fluid spill was also handled. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
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Cover Story
6 Killed in LIE Crash
Firefighters responded to a three-vehicle MVA on the Long Island Expressway, which took the lives of six people on the morning of August 21, 2016. An eastbound car travelling between exits 68 and 69 hit construction bumps, lost control, crossed the median, went airborne and slammed into two cars going westbound. Three people were killed in the eastbound car, two adults and a child. The communications director for Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone was killed in the first westbound car and two people in the second westbound car were killed. The LIE was closed from 0935 to 1800 in both directions during the response and investigation. - Fire News photos by Eddie Coppa and Dennis Berger
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Rockville Centre Overturn
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Rockville Centre firefighters and police were on the scene on August 20, 2016, after an SUV lost control and overturned on Hempstead Avenue near Dorchester Road. Two minor injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
4 Kids, 2 Adults Injured in Copiague MVA
An hour after returning from a working fire, the Copiague Fire dren and two adults in the SUV and all were transported with nonDepartment was alerted for an MVA with overturn at Florida life threatening injuries. There were no injuries to anyone in the Avenue and Great Neck Road on August 24, 2016. A sedan and SUV sedan. Chief of Department Campion was in charge of the scene. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza collided causing the SUV to roll onto its side. There were four chil-
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Fatality at North Lindenhurst MVA
The North Lindenhurst Fire Department and Suffolk County Police responded to an accident at New Highway and Albany Avenue on August 23, 2016. A full-size pickup truck and medium sedan collided, trapping the driver of the sedan. The crew from Heavy Rescue 1-11-5 used multiple cutters to remove the roof of the vehicle and
extricated the driver in about 10 minutes. The driver was taken to Good Samaritan Hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries. The driver of the pickup was uninjured. First Assistant Chief Steiger was in charge of the scene. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
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3-Car MVA in Lakeland On August 30, 2016, the Lakeland Fire Department was activated for an MVA with reported overturn at the intersection of Veterans Memorial Highway and 13th Avenue. Upon arrival commanding units found a three-car MVA with one vehicle overturned and another pinned against a utility pole. First responders advised incoming units of two drivers heavily pinned. Mutual aid was requested from Bohemia for a rescue truck to the scene. Crews worked quickly to extricate the occupants with the assistance of Suffolk County Police Emergency Service units. Both drivers were transported to a nearby hospital for their injuries. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Lucky in Valley Stream Only minor injuries were incurred when an SUV lost control and flipped over on Shaw Avenue near West Merrick Road in Valley Stream on August 29, 2016. Valley Stream firefighters and EMS personnel responded but were not needed. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Bethpage MVA On August 28, 2016, the Bethpage Fire Department responded to a report of a car into a pole at the intersection of Haypath and Gerhard Roads. Two people were injured and transported to local hospitals. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
Ronkonkoma MVA The Ronkonkoma Fire Department responded to an MVA with heavy rescue on September 3, 2016. The accident occurred on Express Drive South just before Garrity Avenue. Chief Eric Cook was in charge and first on scene to find one person self extricated with no injuries. - Fire News photo by Cameron Wilken
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LIE MVA with Ejection On August 27, 2016, the Farmingville and Holtsville Fire Departments were activated for an MVA with overturn and reported ejection on the southbound side of Nicolls Road. Upon arrival commanding units found a single-vehicle MVA with ejection. The ejected driver was airlifted with serious injuries to Stony Brook University Hospital. Two children were also transported for minor injuries by ground via a Holtsville ambulance. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Holtsville Extrication Early on August 27, 2016, the Holtsville Fire Department was activated for an MVA with reported heavy rescue on Blue Point Road. Upon arrival, Chief Mike Escue advised incoming units of an entrapment. The crew of first-due Rescue 4 worked quickly to extricate the driver, and she was transported to Stony Brook University Hospital via a Holtsville Ambulance. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
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Garden City MVA Only minor injuries were received after two vehicles collided at the intersection of Wetherill Road and Mulberry Avenue in Garden City on September 2, 2016. The impact of the crash caused one vehicle to overturn and come to a stop on a nearby lawn. Garden City firefighters and police were on the scene along with Nassau County EMS. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Bethpage MVA On August 29, 2016, the Bethpage Fire Department responded to an MVA with pin on Haypath and Plainview Roads. The driver of the vehicle was self extricated upon arrival and transported to NUMC with serious injuries. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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Deer Park 3-Car MVA On July 15, 2016, the Deer Park Fire Department responded to a three-car MVA at the corner of Long Island Avenue and Commack Road. The driver of the one car sustained neck injuries after crashing into the vehicle in front of him, which hit the third car. The driver who sustained the neck injuries was transported to Good Samaritan Hospital in West Islip and the people of the other cars refused medical treatment. - Fire News photo by BTFirePhoto.com
Massapequa 3-Car On July 15, 2016, the Massapequa Fire Department Ladder 632 and Ambulances 638, 639 and 6310 responded to a three-car MVA at the intersection of Broadway and Massachusetts Avenue in Massapequa. First Assistant Chief Stansberry was in charge. A Nassau County Police ambulance transported two occupants of one vehicle to a local hospital. Occupants of the other vehicles were evaluated by FD EMTs and were RMAs. - Fire News photo by Ed Tuffy
Ejection, Injuries in 4-Car MVA On July 27, 2016, the Nesconset Fire Department was activated for an MVA with reported ejection on Middle Country Road in front of the Smith Haven Mall. Upon arrival, commanding units were met with a four-car MVA with entrapment and one person ejected. Command requested mutual aid from Centereach. Multiple patients were transported to Stony Brook University Hospital with serious injuries. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
E. Northport Rescues Injured Bicyclist The East Northport Fire Department responded to an assist for an injured bicyclist who struck a tree on July 29, 2016, on the bike trails in Meadowlark Park off Middleville Road. The patient, a 10-year-old boy, was located about a mile into the woods by an ENFD Paramedic. Firefighters used an off-theroad brush truck to reach the young boy, who was carefully loaded into a Stoke’s basket, taken to a waiting ambulance. and transferred to a Suffolk Police medevac helicopter that landed at the adjacent Northport VA Hospital. He was airlifted to Stony Brook University Hospital. The incident was under the command of Chief Wayne Kaifler, Jr., and Second Assistant Chief Dan Flanagan. An engine assisted from the Northport VA Hospital and Greenlawn provided a standby engine. - Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
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Pickup vs. Street Sweeper; No One Wins On July 31, 2016, the West Babylon Fire Department was alerted for an MVA with reports of two vehicles overturned on the westbound service road of Sunrise Highway at Route 109. First arriving units found a pickup truck that had lost control and went over the guardrail and fence and hit a small street sweeper. Both vehicles overturned multiple times, landing on their wheels and injuring three people, the driver of the pickup and driver and passenger in the sweeper. The crew from Heavy Rescue 19-15 put cutters into operation to remove the driver’s door of the pickup and extricated the driver within 10 minutes. All three of the injured were taken to Good Samaritan Hospital by West Babylon Ambulance and mutual aid ambulances from North Lindenhurst and East Farmingdale. Chief of Department Manzi was in charge of the scene. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
MVA on the Meadowbrook The New York State Police, and Commack and Kings Park Fire Departments responded to an accident on northbound Sunken Meadow State Parkway between Jericho Turnpike and Pulaski Road in Commack on August 26, 2016. A car had lost control, left the roadway, and crashed into trees before coming to a stop in the center median. The driver was treated and transported to Stony Brook University Hospital by Kings Park Fire Department Ambulance. The accident caused northbound traffic to be diverted due to the car’s engine lying in the middle of the roadway. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
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Selden Car Into Tree On August 9, 2016, the Selden Fire Department was activated for an MVA with reported vehicle into tree on the northbound side of Nicolls Road near the Suffolk County Community College entrance. Upon arrival, commanding units found a single vehicle with negative enrapment. The vehicle smashed through a fence and into a tree. The crew of the firstdue engine secured the vehicle. The driver of the vehicle refused medical attention. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
3 Cars, No Injuries On August 5, 2016, Massapequa Fire Department Engine 6315, Ladder 632, Ambulance 6310 and Squad Company 8 responded to a three-car MVA in a Massapequa Park Village parking lot in the rear of stores on Park Boulevard. Assistant Chief Monjardo was in charge and there were no injuries. - Fire News photo by Ed Tuffy
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Hicksville Rescue Installation
(Above): William Schuckmann (left) is installed as the Captain of Heavy Rescue Company 8 by Commissioner Anthony Wigdzinski. (Above, right): The men and women of the Hicksville Fire Department Floodlight Heavy Rescue Company # 8 celebrating 50 years of service to the Hicksville Community. (Right): 2nd Assistant Chief Elizabeth Flahavan installs the Hicksville Fire Department Heavy Rescue Company 8 officers (left to right) 2nd Lieutenant Chris Wright, 1st Lieutenant Doug McDonald ,Treasurer James Fiore, Secretary Paul Caglione and Sergeant-atArms Kevin Doran. - Fire News photos by Kevin Imm
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Riverhead FD, Ambulance at Riverhead Triathlon The Triathlon overall winner, Billy Holl, passes the Riverhead Fire Department engine spraying water on the runners during their 10K run. Extremely high ambient temperatures made the run the most difficult phase of the triathlon. The Riverhead Volunteer Ambulance Corps also was on standby. At the end of the race they treated one runner for possible hyperthermia. -Fire News photos by Robert O’Rourk
Dix Hills FD Annual Picnic The Dix Hills Fire Department recently held their annual picnic at Park Shore Day Camp in Dix Hills. There were many fun activities including swimming, face painting, rock climbing and plenty of great food and an ice cream truck. Special thanks to the Huntington Manor and Greenlawn Fire Departments for standby, and to Bob and Chuck Budah and the staff at Park Shore for their generous hospitality. - Fire News photos by Steve Silverman
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Welcome Home Chief Mirando
Bethpage Father & Son
Ridge Fire Department welcomed home ex-Chief John Mirando III, after serving active duty overseas. Thank you for your service, Chief! - Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
Ex-Chief of the Bethpage Fire Department (left) Francis X DeBobes, Sr., and his son, Chief of the Bethpage Fire Department Francis X DeBobes. Jr., at the Nassau County parade in Bethpage. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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Huntington Manor Fire Department Parade
The Huntington Manor Fire Department recently held their annual parade, which drew large crowds. Departments and bands from throughout the Huntington area and beyond marched in the parade down Oakwood Road to the fairgrounds at Stimson Middle School in Huntington Station. Huntington Manor ex-Fire Police Captain James Pentecost was this year’s Grand Marshal and recognized for 44 years of dedicated service. - Fire News photos by Steve Silverman
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Syosset Wetdown
On July 30, 2016, the Syosset Fire Department held a dedication ceremony and wetdown for Ladder 582, a 2015 Spartan. After the ladder was blessed and dedicated to three members, their families were presented with plaques. A wetdown was held behind headquarters. Departments from Nassau and Suffolk participated in the wetdown. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza and Joseph C. Sperber
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5th Battalion Parade
-Fire News photos by Kim Versheck
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Nassau Firefighters Honor PC Richard and Son Nassau County Firefighters Operation Wounded Warrior (NCFF-OWW) Chairman Joe O’Grady of the Floral Park Fire Department (center, right) presented an honorary Nassau County OWW chief’s helmet to Gregg Richard, President and CEO of PC Richard and Son, at a recent ceremony at their corporate headquarters. PC Richard and Son was honored by the firefighters for their constant assistance in helping the firefighters make life a little better for wounded warriors. Also present were NCFF-OWW Vice-Chairmen Steve Grogan (extreme right) of the Lynbrook Fire Department, and Michael Kushner (second from right) of the Steward Manor Fire Department, as well as Todd Costello (extreme left), PC Richard and Son
Vice-President of Sales, and Joe Morrone (second from left), PC Richard and Son VIP Sales Coordinator. During the presentation the company surprised the firefighters with a check for $5000 to go toward fundraising efforts for wounded warriors. “PC Richard and Son has always assisted
our fire departments over the years but they have especially and continually helped in our efforts to help our wounded warriors,” said O'Grady. “Here we went to PC Richard and Son to thank them for their continued help and they turned around and presented us with a check.” Fire Departments in Nassau County wishing to get involved in NCFF-OWW should contact O’Grady at 516-4624617. Those wishing to just make a contribution to help in the efforts should mail a check to NCFF-OWW, 120 Covert Street, Stewart Manor, NY 11530. NCFF-OWW is a non-profit 501-C3 organization started 12 years ago by Nassau volunteers. They are not associated with the national Wounded Warrior Project.
Merrick Donates $5G to Pendergast Fund Members of Merrick Friendship Engine and Hose presented a check for $5000 to the Heather Pendergast Fund at the fund’s 8th Annual Golf Outing on July 25, 2016, at the Woodside Acres Country Club. Accepting the check was Massapequa ex-Chief Tom Pendergast. - Fire News photo by Ed Tuffy
N. Massapequa F.D. Honors Distinguished Member
The North Massapequa Fire Department recently honored long time Ladder Company 1 member Fred Proverdi with a humanitarian award for his more than 50 years of distinguished service to the community. Proverdi is also a US World War II Navy veteran who participated in the Normandy invasion on D-Day. (Left to right): 2nd Assistant Chief James M. Maroldo; 2nd Lieutenant Stephen Archipolo; 1st Assistant Chief Joseph M. Pesale, Jr.; Shaun McCormack; 1st Lieutenant Peter Cioffi; Chairman of the Board of Fire Commissioners Marc A. Timpano; Chief of Department Frederick J. Ferrara; Fred Proverdi; Commissioner John J. Smalley; Commissioner Ralph J. Raymond; Commissioner Frank A. Nocerino; 3rd Assistant Chief Mark J. Frascella; and Commissioner Nicholas T. Paolucci. - Fire News photo by Kurt Ludwig
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Supporting Our Nation’s Finest Hundreds of first responders from Nassau and Suffolk counties attended a rally held in Eisenhower Park on July 24, 2016, to honor and memorialize the police officers killed in Baton Rouge on July 17. Organized by First Deputy Chief Thomas Skinner, the assistance of the Chief Ronald Sopp, the First Battalion chiefs, NY State Senator Jack Martins, Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano, Commissioner Craig Craft and Deputy Commissioner Jim Kaine from OEM, the NC Fire Service Academy, Nassau County Fire Marshals, the Nassau County Parks Department and Merit Signs Display Service of Glen Oaks were instrumental in making the event a success in a seven-day time span. “I could not be more proud of the Nassau and Suffolk counties fire services for attending the rally. It was an honor — and my privilege — to spearhead this rally and show our unwavering support for our nations finest,” said Chief Skinner. - Fire News photo by Joe Virgilio
Bike Blessing and Ride
On June 12, 2016, the Red Knights Chapter 25 held its 11th annual Bike Blessing and Ride, and had another successful day raising money for the Suffolk County Volunteer Firefighters Burn Center Fund. This year’s event put the club over the $100,000 mark for total donations to this cause. Thanks go to the North Sea Fire Department for the use of their field, the South Fork Fire Police for keeping the riders safe, and all the donors and volunteers who made the event so much fun. - Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
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West Hempstead, Lakeview Dedicate 9/11 Memorial After many years of preparation and planning, the West Hempstead 9/11 World Trade Center Memorial was dedicated on July 14, 2016. The centerpieces of the memorial were the engraved marble plaque with the names of the 12 West Hempstead residents who perished in the attack, including ex-Chief Robert DeAngelis, Jr., of the Lakeview Fire Department, and a piece of steel recovered from the site that stands atop a marble pedestal. The Lakeview and West Hempstead Fire Departments participated in the ceremony. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Goes Around, Comes Around
On July 13, 1998, Lynbrook firefighters responded to a reported baby not breathing in a car at Sunrise Highway and Peninsula Boulevard. Luke Bavaro and his twin brother Jake, were in the car, and three-month old Luke was not breathing. Ex-Captain Joe Rice was on a job around the corner, while ex-Captain PJ Curran was driving on Sunrise Highway. Rice was first on the scene and jumped into the back seat and grabbed Luke. Curran assisted, then took Jake. Rice opened the child’s airway while stimulating his feet. Suddenly, Luke took a breath, then another, but it was labored. A Lynbrook police officer arrived, as did an ambulance. Oxygen was administered and the baby’s breathing improved. Oxygen was continued in the ambulance as they continued to stimulate the child to continue to breathing. Winthrop Hospital doctors
determined that both boys had a virus but Luke was most affected, as he was the smaller of the twins. Doctors credited the firefighters with saving Luke’s life. On August 16, 2016, Luke and Jake received their badges as probationary firefighters in the Lynbrook Fire Department. Even though they had been around Truck Company’s firehouse for the past three months — the same firehouse where PJ Curran is a member — they told no one that they were the babies saved back in 1998. It only came out when another firefighter asked the twins why they joined. Their answer was that they wanted to give back after what Lynbrook firefighters did for them. - Fire News photos by Steve Grogan
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Water Rescue Training for Juniors
On August 21, 2016, the juniors from the Port Washington Fire Department, Mineola Fire Department and Glenwood Fire Department attended a water rescue training session. The juniors learned self rescue on a small vessel, back boarding a patient in the water, vessel handling and using a throw rope. The training was conducted in Hempstead Harbor and was hosted by the Port Washington Fire Department. There were 38 juniors attending. - Fire News photos by Kevin Lang
Atlantic Beach Rescue Junior Grads Atlantic Beach Rescue Summer Juniors Program Graduates (2016) Ben Meron, Naomi Meron, Phoebe Yusen, Noah Yusen and Alex Yusen. - Fire News photo by Jonathan Kohan
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Atlantic Beach Rescue Trains
On August 14, 2016, the Nassau County VEEB conducted an oceanfront CME class hosted by the Atlantic Beach Rescue. The class was overseen by AC Kevin O’Hara (NC-VEEB) and was attended by 47 first responders from 11 departments throughout Nassau County. Evolutions included: patient extrication and transport from the ocean; conducting a line search, ocean self rescue; a review of PPE and incident command; and acquainting participants to the challenges of treating patients in the surf zone. AC Avi Golan (ABR) was the Incident Commander. Members of Atlantic Beach Rescue’s Surf/Flood Water Rescue Team together with the Nassau County Water Rescue Association assisted with the instruction. - Fire News photos provided by Atlantic Beach Rescue
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Autism Training for First Responders
Teacher and Nassau County VEEB President Phil Malloy’s daughter, Jillian Malloy, had spoken to her father about some of the challenges with dealing with autistic children. Realizing that education was a necessary component, she directed him to people that would help organize this training. He approached County Executive Ed Mangano and they contacted OEM Commissioner Craig Craft and with additional support from Town of Hempstead Supervisor Anthony Santino and Councilman Anthony D’Esposito they set up the training. Two experts in the field — Sergeant Jimmy Donohoe and Captain Bill Cannata — were brought in and presented the training. They covered the different levels of autism, tools to help ID
people with autism and sensory problems, calming techniques, as well as tips on where to look for missing autistic children. EMS Academy Chief Frank Chester, along with NCEMS Academy instructors put the program together and it was presented on August 31, 2016, at the Morrelly Homeland Security Center. Approximately 150 first responders took advantage of this unique training opportunity. (Left to right): Deputy Commissioner James Kane (NCOEM), Chief Frank Chester (NCEMSA), Captain Bill Cannata, Councilman Anthony D’Esposito, Jillian Malloy, President Phillip Malloy (NC VEEB) and Sergeant Jimmy Donohoe. - Fire News photo by Ray Maguire
Nassau Holds Incident Conference In two of the more recent mass shooting attacks on American soil the fire service has been pressed into service to assist local law enforcement. In both cases (San Bernardino, CA and Orlando, FL) fire departments were there to supplement police forces to aid in evacuation, treatment, and transportation of victims. The chief of the Nassau County Police Department, Steven Skrynecki, had presented the police department response protocol to numerous organizations. Those included the Association of Fire Districts of Nassau County (AFDNC) and the Fire Chiefs Council of Nassau County (FCCNC), among others. It was apparent during these presentations that, should the unthinkable happen in Nassau, the fire service would need to be prepared to assist. A focus group of dedicated chiefs and members met at the Nassau County Fire Service Academy this past May to kick things off. A core group of instructors from the fire academy were tasked with developing a policy and subsequent training program that would be slated to be delivered to all members of county fire and EMS services. Second Deputy Chiefs Scymcyk, Becker, and Chavatte have the unique perspective as chiefs of their departments as well as law enforcement backgrounds. They formulated a policy using nationally established protocols and input from the focus group. On August 10 an informational meeting was held at Adelphi
University with over 200 attendees, including county officials, school officials, chiefs and commissioners. A presentation was made by Chief Skrynecki and Nassau County Fire Service Academy Chief Instructor Robert Hughes. The meeting concluded with a question/answer period from a panel of Fire and Police representatives. The formal training of Nassau County Chiefs is slated to begin in the late fall/early winter timeframe. Additional plans include tabletop exercises and live drills with local law enforcement participation. It is expected that all members of the fire and EMS services will eventually receive this training. We would like to thank President Riordan and Adelphi University for providing the venue for this important meeting. (Left to right): Deputy Chief Kevin Canavan (NCPD), Chief Robert Hughes (NCFSA), 2nd Deputy Chief Eric Becker (NCFSA), 2nd Deputy Chief Steve Scymcyk (NCFSA), Chief Ray Maguire (VEEB Board), Chief Steve Skrynecki NCPD Chief of Department), Chief Frank Kirby (NCPD), Chief Kevin Smith (NCPD), Lieutenant Bill Leahy (NCPD) and Assistant Chief Tim Placilla (Firecom). - Fire News photo by Ray Maguire
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Joe Hunter Drill July 3, 2016
Rank 1st 2nd 3rd 3rd 4th
Team Points Central Islip 32 North Lindenhurst23 Port Washington 17 West Hempstead 17 Lindenhurst 10 - Fire News photos by Kim Versheck
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Zach Bernstein Memorial Drill Rank 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 4th
July 23, 2016
Team Freeport Bellmore Amityville Seaford Rocky Point
Points 28 25 18 17 17
- Fire News photos by Kim Versheck
NYS Old Fashioned Drill Rank 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th
August 5, 2016
Team Freeport Bellmore Rocky Point Freeport Miller Place
Points 28.5 22 19 14 12
- Fire News photos by Bill D'Alessandro
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Hempstead Invitational Drill August 6, 2016
Rank Team Points 1st North Lindenhurst 28 2nd Port Washington 25 3rd West Hempstead 23 4th North Bellmore 10 5th Copiague 7 -Fire News photos by Bill D'Alessandro
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Riverhead Invitational July 16, 2016
Rank 1st 2nd 3rd 3rd 4th
Team Points West Sayville 29 Islip 21 Central Islip 17 North Lindenhurst 17 Lindenhurst 15
-Fire News photos by Michael Heller
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Suffolk County Drill at CI July 9, 2016
Rank 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th
Team Points West Sayville 29.5 Islip 26 Central Islip 22 N. Lindenhurst 20.5 Copiague 12.5
-Fire News photos by Mike Heller
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Jamesport Hosts Radiation Training On July 31, 2016, the Jamesport Fire Department hosted a multi-agency radiation detection safety exercise conducted by the Suffolk County Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services (FRES) at Jamesport’s headquarters. FRES will be distributing radiological monitoring equipment to fire departments and EMS agencies in Suffolk County. The meters were purchased using federal grant money, and along with the training, will be provided at no cost. The training conducted by Suffolk County Fire Marshals Kevin Peterson and Joe Fagan, included radiation basics, health effects, meter function and meter usage. Approximately 50 members from Jamesport, Riverhead, Wading River, and Mattituck, as well as the Riverhead Town Volunteer Ambulance Corps, attended. - Fire News photo courtesy of John Andrejack, CoD Jamesport FD
Pendergast Fund Golf Outing The Heather Pendergast Fund held its annual golf outing on July 25, 2016, at the Woodside Acres Country Club in Muttontown. The fund exists to help Long Island firefighters and EMS personnel with a child that has a life threatening condition. Ex-Chief Tom Pendergast addressed the players before play started. - Fire News photo by Ed Tuffy, MFD
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Extrication Training in W. Hempstead On September 8, 2016, the West Hempstead Fire Department held a training class on vehicle extrication for members with under five years in the department. - Fire News photos by Bill D’Alessandro
Great Neck Alert Honors 70-Year Members
The Great Neck Alert Fire Company recently honored three members of the fire department for their 70 years of service to the community. Harry Rubenau, George B. Motchkavitz and Leonard (Lenny) Motchkavitz joined the Alert Fire Company in 1946. Rubenau, born on February 8, 1925, is a long time resident of Great Neck and a World War II veteran, having served in the U.S. Navy for three years in the South Pacific. Rubenau worked at the Arrandale School for 21 years and John F. Kennedy School for 20 years, where he served as Head Custodian. During his tenure with the Alerts, he served as First Lieutenant, Vice President and Trustee. George and Lenny Motchkavitz are twins, born on May 27, 1927, in Great Neck in the same house where George lives today. They both served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. The brothers had a plumbing business in Great Neck – M and P Plumbing and Heating — for over
45 years. They both attained the rank of Chief and President of the Alerts, and served for many years on the Board of Trustees. Lenny also served as Chairman of the Board. George was the Alert Fire Company Chief from 1963-1966 and Lenny was Chief from 1969-1972. Both George and Lenny served as Presidents of the 8th Battalion Past Chiefs Association. Lenny also served as Chairman of the Nassau County Fire Commission. The Great Neck Alert Fire Company is proud to recognize and honor these three men who spent most of their lives living, working and proudly serving the Great Neck community. Their 70 years of dedication and service to the Great Neck Alert Fire Company has helped shape and guide the company to what it is today. These three men — Harry, George and Lenny — truly represent the greatest generation. - Fire News photo by Sara Rietbroek
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Nassau County Junior Camp Graduates
(Baldwin) - Sophia German, Zhareon Williams, Kyle Brown -Fire News photos by Joe Virgilio
(Farmingdale) Kenneth Amato, Dylan Scire
(Bellmore) Robert Bancke, Ronald Gibney
(Floral Park) Christopher Florio
(East Meadow) Jeanette McGee, Dmitriy Giuffre, William Giblin
(Franklin Square) - Anthony Pallisco, Christopher Oliver, Katerina Giannakopoulos
(East Norwich) Mary Grace Syrett, Jayce Cody, Katherine Diaz
(Glen Cove) Mason Kletter
(East Rockaway) Thomas Chojnacki
(Great Neck) David Oginski
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Nassau County Junior Camp Graduates
(Hicksville) - Michael Scanlon, Ryan Stack, Christopher Lopez, Jack Kelly
(Plandome) - Todd Qiu, Jared Gudino, Kevin Becker
(Hewlett) Shani Corcos, Tyler Ruvolo
(Point Lookout-Lido) Ryan Sullivan
(Jericho) Mark Elkins
(Rockville Centre) Patrick Leach, John Cook
(Massapequa) Dylan McQuoid
(South Farmingdale) Joseph Virgilio, George Frontino
(Plainview) Nick Pennacchia, Scott Keelan, Elizabeth Marchese
(Syosset) - Emilie Siering, Robert Dowd (Continued on page 86)
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Nassau County Junior Camp Graduates
(Valley Stream) - Brian Aliventi As Fire News says good bye to summer, we would like to congratulate all of the Junior Firefighters who graduated from the Nassau County Juniors Fire Camp Fahrenheit 516. After their intense training, all the students attended their graduation where members and chiefs from all of the participating departments joined them at the Nassau County Legislative Chambers where Chief Hughes and Chief Fire Marshal Scott Tusa presented them with certificates from the FSA and County
(Wantagh) - Ryan Kushner Executive Mangano. The National Volunteer Fire Council, which recognized the organization in 2012, sent backpacks and cooler bags as gifts. To take a look at what went on at the camp visit: www.ncjfa.org click on “Fire Camp.” You can also visit YouTube and search “Nassau Juniors Camp Fahrenheit 2016” and follow on Facebook by at “Nassau Juniors.” - Fire News photos by Joe Virgilio
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MOTLEY CREWS OF THE MONTH
Working together in the Southampton Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
Working together in the Hampton Bays Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
Valley Stream Installation Dinner. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
Freeport Hose Company No. 4 and Hose Company No. 5 perform multi-unit hoseline drill under the direction of Captain Donnelly. - Fire News photo Freeport FD
Gordon Heights Fire Department -Fire News photo by Dennis Whittam
Deer Park Fire Department’s Chief Anthony Biolsi and crew at an overturn on Old Country Road and Carlls Path. - Fire News photo by BTFirePhoto.com
Farmingville Fire Department 3rd Annual Horseshoe Tournament winners. Yaphank (left) second place, Farmingville (middle) first, and Bayport third. - Fire News photo by Amanda Coffey
The crew from Engine 441 of the Nesconset Fire Department after operating at a house fire on Lincoln Avenue, on August 11, 2016. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
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SCTF-1 Holds MOBEX
On August 12-13, 2016, the Suffolk County USAR Team, SC-TF1, held their annual mobile exercise. This year, the team performed search and rescue training at the Connetquot River State Park in Bohemia. The Suffolk County USAR Team is comprised of members of volunteer fire departments, EMS, law enforcement and public safety personnel from Suffolk County. All members have technical rescue backgrounds and extensive training in rescue operations. Also involved in this year’s exercise was the 106th Air Force Rescue Wing. After a very hot, two-day exercise, the team successfully honed their skills and proved they are definitely ready to serve with future search and rescue operations should the need arise. Thank you to the Bohemia Fire Department for sharing their firehouse with the operation. -Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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East Northport 9/11 Memorial The East Northport Fire Department held its 15th annual September 11 Memorial Service at their 9/11 Memorial Monument, set around an eight-foot, 8,000-pound steel beam from the World Trade Center. Chief Wayne Kaifler, Jr., welcomed the guests, followed by an opening prayer from Chaplain William Bootz. The sirens were sounded to mark the time the South Tower collapsed, which was followed by the reading of all victims’ names. The sirens were again sounded to mark the collapse of the North Tower. An engine with a memorial banner listing all the 9/11 victims proceeded under the flag-draped arch of East Northport and Northport ladder trucks. - Fire News photos by Steve Silverman
North Merrick 6th Battalion Parade
-Fire News photos by Brian Olsen
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Manhasset-Lakeville Chuck Karen Added to Memorial
On September 10, 2016, the Manhasset-Lakeville Fire Department gathered at Patriot’s Park in Manhasset as Chuck Karen’s name was added to the 9/11 monument by the commissioners of the Manhasset Park District. Chuck passed away earlier this year from 9/11 related illness. Chuck was a police officer in the NYPD’s 73rd Precinct and spent countless hours at the World Trade Center site in the aftermath of the attacks. - Fire News photos by Lee Genser
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Up Close & Personal
Over a Century of Service These two ex-Chiefs working at the Greenlawn Fireman’s Fair have a combined total of over 110 years of service. East Northport ex-Chief Bill Faltin, left, with 47 years has been assisting at the Greenlawn Fair for decades. Greenlawn ex-Chief Bill Wieck, right, is still going strong with 65 years of service. Fire News salutes these fire service veterans who are well-respected role models in their respective departments. - Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
The Chiefs of the Northport Volunteer Fire Department at the 3rd annual Cow Harbor Paddle Fest fundraiser. Chiefs Dennis Sheridan 2-9-32, John Jacobsen 2-9-31, and Brad Wine 2-9-30. - Fire News photo by John Mancino
Plainview Fire Department Rescue Lieutenant David Walker working at a recent job. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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Up Close & Personal
The Ronkonkoma Fire Department at the Ronkonkoma Chamber of Commerce Street Fair on Sunday, September 4, 2016. They also provided EMS coverage with a triage area, two ambulances, two bike patrols and an engine. - Fire News photo by 2nd AC Kevin Murray
(Right): Applebee’s of Huntington Station sponsored the Cold Spring Harbor Fire Department softball team for 2016 season. (Left to right): Jack III, Jared, Chris, Greg, Justin, Tim, Ken, Stephen, Connor, Jared, Nick, Nick and Jack Jr. - Fire News photo provided
East Northport FD Honors Suffolk Police Officer The East Northport Fire Department recently recognized Suffolk County Police Officer Christine Blauvelt for her dedicated service upon her retirement. Officer Blauvelt was an asset to the department and community for over 20 years, proudly serving in the 206 sector car that patrols the East Northport area. The department presented Blauvelt with a plaque for her dedicated service and her valued friendship to the officers and members of the East Northport Fire Department. The department thanked Blauvelt for her service, and wished her well with her retirement. Pictured from left, are President Bill Gilman, Second Assistant Chief Dan Flanagan, Officer Blauvelt, Chief Wayne Kaifler Jr., and First Assistant Chief Dan Heffernan. - Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
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West Sayville Hosts Islip Town Parade
On August 13, 2016, Chief Lucus Domingo led the West Sayville Fire Department and other Islip Town departments through the streets of West Sayville for the annual parade, which culminated in a celebration behind headquarters with trophies being awarded and a good time had by all. Chief Domingo congratulated the Sayville Fire Department for again being awarded the prestigious Most Men in Line category. - Fire News photos by Harry D’Onofrio
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Greenlawn 2016 Parade Winners
Best Band: FIRST, NYPD Band (marching with Commack FD); SECOND, Brentwood FD Band (marching with Kings Park FD). Most Members in Line (Under 30): FIRST: Huntington Community First Aid Squad. Most Members in Line (Over 30): FIRST, East Northport; SECOND, Northport. Best Appearing Department: FIRST, East Northport; SECOND: Kings Park; THIRD: Northport. Best Junior Department: FIRST, Centerport; SECOND, Huntington Manor. Best Overall Department: East Northport. Parade judges were provided by the Glen Cove Fire Department. - Fire News photos by Steve Silverman
Looking Back Fire News photographer Tom Pesce (kneeling on the far left) and the crew of Melville’s 1974 Rescue Squad. - Fire News photo from the Tom Pesce collection
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Crazy Italian Grilled Cheese By Firehouse Kitchen’s Ray Cooney This past February, I was at the EMS Fire Department Mega show, and bumped into Firefighter Robert Myslik, of the Commack Volunteer Fire Department. Myslik’s job is manning the ambulance. “Why haven’t you ever had the EMT people featured on Firehouse Kitchen” he asked. I answered, “I have, but never from Commack. What would you like to make?” He replied, “I make this crazy Italian grilled cheese sandwich.” I said, “I love grilled cheese … and Italians. I’m even married to one!” This led to me scheduling this first responder to appear on the fifth season of Firehouse Kitchen. We cooked at the Northport Fire Department (where I have filmed many of my shows because of their magnificent kitchen). Rob arrived with a big smile. Even better than his smile, were the ingredients he brought along. Fresh mozzarella, and roasted pepper and ham were a few of the ingredients used to make his grilled cheese sandwich. The most incredible part of the sandwich was the bread he used. It was an old style Italian bread. I usually call it “peasant bread” because when you watch old movies, this is the bread that the ‘peasants’ would take out of the oven. It is a big, round loaf that looks like a deflated bread ball. You know exactly the one I’m talking about! It always comes out of a brick or stone oven. After the sandwiches were prepared, they were
Crazy Italian Grilled Cheese
dipped in a French toast-like batter and fried up on a pan. The aroma that filled the room was a combination of my wife’s Italian cooking and my Irish mother making me French toast. The taste was something I never experienced before. This once basic grilled cheese sandwich took on a whole new meaning with a simple twist. Next time you go to make grilled cheese, change it up and try this recipe. Lastly, make sure to use the peasant bread! Let’s get ready for the fifth season of Firehouse Kitchen. It begins October 14, 2016, on NYC Life (22 Fios, 25 Optimum). It also airs every Friday at noon on the Fire News Facebook page. Be sure to ‘friend’ us at Firehouse Kitchen’s Facebook page as well! For more information on how your firehouse can be on our show or on how to become a sponsor, visit www.firehousekitchenshow.com.
4 Eggs 1/4 cup milk Salt & pepper Fresh mozzarella Roasted red peppers Ham Vegetable oil Italian Bread (peasant bread) Parmesan cheese Mix eggs, milk, salt and pepper (to taste) in bowl and set aside. Thinly slice Italian bread and fresh mozzarella. Prepare sandwiches of mozzarella cheese, roasted red peppers and ham on sliced bread. Dip sandwich in milk batter and place on frying pan. Flip when browning. Remove from pan when done and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!
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FASNY Honors Baldwin’s Kopf as FF of the Year The Firemen’s Association of the State of New York (FASNY) named Frederick Kopf, exCaptain of the Baldwin Fire Department, the FASNY 2016 Firefighter of the Year. The awards were presented at FASNY’s 144th Annual Convention at the Desmond Hotel in Albany during a ceremony on August 13, 2016. Late on July 4, 2015, the Baldwin Fire Department was dispatched for a report of smoke coming from an apartment on Old Mill Road in Baldwin, where police officers reported that people were trapped in a second-floor apartment. Ex-Captain Kopf performed a search and rescue and located a victim in a rear bedroom, past the fire room, then extricated a 56-year-old man suffering from severe smoke inhalation. “It gives me great pleasure to present FASNY’s 2016 Firefighter of the Year to Frederick Kopf for demonstrating outstanding heroism and risking his own life to save another. It is gratifying to recognize and celebrate that sacrifice in the presence of our FASNY family and friends,” said FASNY President Robert McConville. Baldwin Fire Department’s then-Chief, Karen Bendel, who was the first to arrive on the scene nominated Kopf for the FASNY award. Bendel noted, “… ex-Captain Frederick Kopf arrived in his personal vehicle … and conducted a search. Kopf located a 56-year-old male in the fire apartment and successfully removed him with assistance to awaiting EMS personnel outside…” For his actions, Kopf will also received a special Nassau County commendation from County Executive Ed Mangano on August 18, 2016, and will receive the Baldwin Fire Department’s Distinguished Service Award at the department’s headquarters later this year. Captain Frederick Dirmeir, Ladder Company 2 recommended Kopf with this summary, “Firefighter Fred Kopf negotiated the fire apartment in zero visibility, blistering heat and without the benefit of a partner to carry out this successful rescue. Due to the imminent life threat to the victim he knowingly passed the fire room without the protection of a handline, in a rapidly deteriorating environment. During the course of this rescue Fred Kopf exhibited remarkable courage, determination and skill to ensure the successful solution which directly resulted in the saving of a human life. Fred Kopf acted in the highest traditions of the Fire Service and without regard to his own personal safety. For his actions above and beyond the call of duty we submit that he be recognized and awarded the highest honor.” Kopf’s son, along with about a dozen volunteer firefighters from Baldwin Fire Department’s Ladder 2 Company, were on hand to congratulate Fred at the FASNY Firefighter of the Year Award presentation ceremony in Albany at The Desmond Hotel. Ex-Captain Fred Kopf, a life-long Baldwin resident is a 29-year-veteran of the Baldwin Fire Department, with all 29 years assigned to Hook and Ladder Company 2. He is also an 18-year career firefighter with the FDNY, holding the rank of Lieutenant for the past 11 years with a Queens engine company.
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Huntington Manor Junior Awarded FASNY Scholarship
Huntington Manor Junior Firefighter Robert Eng was the recipient of the FASNY Gerald J. Buckenmeyer Volunteer Scholarship Award. FASNY President Bob McConville presented the $1500 scholarship to Robert at a recent department meeting. Robert is 18 and has been a member of Manor’s Explorer Post 1650’s Juniors program for four years. He will be attending LIU-Post College in the fall and majoring in game design and development. (From left): First Assistant Chief Mike DePasquale, Chief Frank McQuade, Robert Eng and his father Firefighter Robert Eng, Bob McConville, Third Assistant Chief Chuck Brady and Second Assistant Chief Jon Hoffmann. - Fire News photo courtesy of Huntington Manor FD
Medford’s Own
Medford Firefighters Andy and Ryan at a fire on August 4, 2016. - Fire News photo by Amanda Coffey
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Federal Funds from Safe Bridges Act
Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, NY 1), member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, was joined at the North Patchogue Fire Department by NYS Senator Tom Croci, NYS Assemblyman Dean Murray, Brookhaven Superintendent of Highways Daniel P. Losquadro, Brookhaven Supervisor Ed Romaine, Brookhaven Councilmen Neil Foley and Mike Loguercio, Chief of the South Country Ambulance Miglino, CEO and President of Brookhaven Memorial Hospital Medical Center Richard T. Margulis, President of IUOE Local 138 Billy Duffy, and
Executive Director of Long Island Contractors’ Association Marc Herbst, to announce the first infusion of federal dollars as a result of his Safe Bridges Act being passed and signed into law. This massive new investment of federal funds into the NY-1 infrastructure will include major repairs and widening to the Hospital Road Bridge — declared “functionally obsolete” by the NYS DOT— as well as other critical projects across the district. -Fire News photo by Dennis Whittam
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Fire Police Seminar a Hit
On August 20, 2016, 115 participants from 28 different Suffolk County Fire Departments, gathered to participate in the second annual Fire Police Seminar and Drill at the Suffolk County Fire Academy. The day started with an instructional seminar on the many challenges faced by fire police as they perform their duties. As the attendees moved outside, many of the departments had their fire police units on display. The ability to network with other fire police members and discuss different tools and techniques was a valuable learning experience for all. The final evolutions brought everyone out onto the field where different scenarios had been staged to explain and discuss various methods of traffic and crowd control. - Fire News photos by Robert Holley
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Sayville FD, Community Ambulance Joint Exercise
Recently the Sayville Fire Department and the Sayville Community Ambulance Company teamed up for some MVA training. Two challenging scenarios were created requiring skills in vehicle extrication and patient care and packaging that put all members working alongside each other to the test. The two agencies routinely respond to alarms of fire and MVAs throughout the community, but seldom have the opportunity to train together. Thanks to the efforts of Lt. Dan Karl and Firefighter EMT Joe Golio along with the support of the Chief's Offices of both agencies, the Sunday morning drill was a success. All in attendance gained a better understanding of one another's operational requirements. The drill promises to be the first of many. - Fire News photos by Trish Foutch; story by Donald M. Mara, SFD PIO
East Northport 2016 Parade Winners Furthest Traveled: Bellerose Terrace Fire Department; 2nd Place Best Appearing Juniors: Centerport; 1st Place Best Appearing Juniors: Halesite; 3rd Place Best Appearing Band: Hauppauge; 2nd Place Best Appearing Band: King Park; 1st Place Best Appearing Band: Nesconset; 2nd Place Most Ladies in Line: St. James; 1st Place Most Ladies in Line: Kings Park; 2nd Place Most Members
in Line under 50: Centerport; 1st Place Most Members in Line under 50: Huntington Manor; 2nd Place Most Members in Line: Kings Park; 1st Place Most Members in Line: Smithtown; 2nd Place Best Appearing Department: Kings Park; 1st Place Best Appearing Department: Smithtown; Best Overall Department: Smithtown. - Fire News photos by Steve Silverman
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ATTORNEY NEIL ROSSMAN TO KEYNOTE AT FDSOA Neil Rossman, the attorney who handled the landmark case against a fire truck manufacturer in 1985 and changed fire truck designs forever, will be the keynote at the Fire Department Safety Officers Association’s annual Apparatus Symposium and Safety Forum, Tuesday, January 17th, 2017, in Orlando, Florida. Thirty-five years ago, Firefighter Joseph Tynan, Jr., fell off a fire engine in Brookline, MA. Rossman, a former firefighter, took the case of the permanently disabled Tynan because it was too common for firefighters to be hurt from the opencab design of fire trucks. In 1985, a Boston jury found the Wisconsin fire truck manufacturer liable for Mr. Tynan’s injuries. The impact was revolutionary on the industry and within a year fire trucks were radically re-designed. Neil Rossman is a partner in the law firm of Rossman and Rossman and specializes in Superior Court trials involving medical malpractice, products liability and personal injury. He was a firefighter in the U.S. Army while on active duty and a professional firefighter for 6-1/2 years with the Swampscott (MA) Fire Department. He has spoken over 45 times to fire service groups in the United States and Canada about fire service liability and firefighter occupational safety and health. Rossman will be presenting during the Apparatus Symposium. The Apparatus Symposium and the Safety Forum will be co-located at the Wyndham Orlando Resort on I-Drive, Orlando, Florida. The Apparatus Symposium, January 16-18, will feature apparatus and
ambulance specification and maintenance topics. Details and registration information can be found on the event page of FDSOA.org. The Safety Forum pre-conference program begins January 16-17, Dave Dodson and Shadd Whitehead will teach the two-day Incident Safety Officer class and Steve Raynis and Dan Melia will teach the two-day Health Safety Officer class preceding the start of the Safety Forum, Wednesday, January 18 to Friday, January 20, 2017. For more information on either event, contact Rich Marinucci, FDSOA Executive Director at 248-880-1864. The Fire Department Safety Officers Association (FDSOA) was established in 1989 as a non-profit association, incorporated in Massachusetts. In 2013, the offices moved to Michigan. Its mission is to promote safety standards and practices in the fire, rescue and emergency services community. The association is led by a volunteer board of directors and has a small staff to handle the day-to-day operations. The association is dedicated to the issues that affect the critical role of the safety officer in protecting and promoting the safety and health responsibilities of fire departments, communities and first responders. FDSOA works to helps fire departments achieve proficiency and promote the recognition of training, skills and a secure future. In May 2016, FDSOA won the Paul S. Sarbanes Fire Service Safety Leadership Award for its work over 28 years, “as an organization fully dedicated to the health and safety of the nation’s firefighters.”
C&H CUSTOM BOOKBINDING
BECAUSE YOU CAN’T CURL UP WITH A GOOD IPAD! They say you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover but at C&H Custom Bookbinding, maybe you should! Creating beautiful individual leather and library bound books since 1974, this family owned and operated business is located in historic Yaphank at 24 Old Dock Road, Suite D. Michael and Barbara Strauss began C&H in the corner of their Brooklyn apartment and moved their young family and growing business to Medford, Long Island in 1978. “It began as a hobby and artistic outlet, doing books for friends while I worked at servicing Ansul fire systems and portable extinguishers in restaurants all over NY,” said Mike, now retired. “It became our main focus when we realized how important books are to people and their future generations.” His wife Barbara added, “Technology may be where it’s at but you can’t curl up with a good iPad. The tactile experience of holding a book is so comforting and one most folks still enjoy.” To be in compliance with State and Federal laws, District and some Corporate Minutes need to be bound in a tamper proof, permanent
hardcover volume. Why not take advantage of our Fire News discount ad featured on page 98 in this issue? Use it for the job or for a personal book you treasure or want to create. We also do book restoration and repairs on family bibles, cookbooks, children’s books and so much more. All of our materials are archival and acid free and we still sew books by hand! Call 1-800-871-8980 for a free quote! Check out our website www.chbook.com for lots of before and after pictures of restored books and lots of ideas for custom books we created. C & H Bookbinding, 24 Old Dock Road, Ste. D, Yaphank, NY 11980; 1-800-871-8980.
REMEMBERING THE 343 LIBERTY ARTWORKS VP DOES STAIR CLIMB Vice President of Liberty Artworks and Maryland Heights Fire Captain Robert Daus, Jr., climbed with his firefighter brothers 110 stories wearing full firefighting gear, SCBA tanks, and equipment (approximately 70 pounds) to honor the fallen 343 firefighters of the 9-11 attack. The charity event was hosted by the Clayton Fire Department and drew firefighters from all over the region. Each member received a lanyard and 8x10 picture of a fallen FDNY firefighter to wear for the duration of the climb. After the climb, each fallen member’s name was read and a memorial bell was tolled in their memory. Biographies of the 343 fallen were posted in a mural so climbers could get to know a little about their firefighter before starting out. Pictured is Robert and his son Jacob.
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Obituary
Bohemia’s Thomas D. Croci On March 24, 2014, the Bohemia Fire Department and the entire Bohemia community lost a dear friend, dedicated community-minded leader and veteran, Thomas D. Croci. Tom had a distinguished 30-year career in education, having taught health for 20 years in the Connetquot High School. During his time in the district, he held the titles of Assistant Athletic Director and Assistant Principal at the high school as well as Assistant Principal and Principal of two of the district’s elementary schools. Tom was also a basketball coach as well as a Senior Class Advisor. Over the years, Tom received many honors for his dedication and commitment to the community. In 2006, the Connetquot Foundation for the Advancement of Children honored Tom for his dedication to the community and school district. He was also the recipient of the Edward Krepela Citizen of the Year Award sponsored by the Bohemia Fire Department as well as the Founders Award presented by the Long Island Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence. Tom was involved in many of our events. For over 20 years, he was the Master of Ceremonies for our annual Memorial Day and Holiday parades as well as the September 11 Anniversary Memorials. Words cannot begin to describe how much we miss Tom. Our department and community are truly privileged to have known him and to have had the great honor of calling him our neighbor and dear friend. - Fire News photos by Ron Pacchiana
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Obituary
Point Lookout-Lido’s Ex-Chief Ludwig G. Meyer
On July 30, 2016, the Point Lookout-Lido Fire Department laid to rest ex-Chief Ludwig G. Meyer with a Firefighters Send-off. For all who knew Chief Meyer, one thing was certain, the brotherhood was his family. During his time at home with hospice care, endless calls came in from across the states and from Germany. The brothers and sisters from Highland, Lindenhurst, Freeport, Baldwin, Long Beach, all stopped by to visit with him while he was home. During his service at St. Peters Church in Baldwin, the pews were filled with firefighters in Class A uniform paying their respects. Taps sounded in the air another reflecting his military service. On Chief Meyer's last ride he passed under the colors on Grand Boulevard as the brotherhood rendered a hand salute. The procession in his honor was more than anybody could have hoped for. Ludwig would have loved it. “God Bless you all,” said my mother And still, the brotherhood stops by and checks on the family. On behalf of the Meyer family, thank you. - Fire News story courtesy of Peter C. Meyer
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Obituary
Port Jefferson’s Ex-Captain George Persson
Ex-Captain George H. Persson passed away on August 12, 2016. He was 55. On August 17, 2016, the Port Jefferson Fire Department laid to rest ex-Captain Persson of Rescue Engine Hose Co. 3. Ex-Captain George Persson will be missed by the people who knew him and the lives he touched. Prayers of strength go out to his family and friends, especially to his wife LynnAnne Walsh-Persson. In lieu of flowers please make Donations to: The Port Jefferson Fire Department or the American Cancer Society in memory of George. - Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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Obituaries
Lynbrook’s Ex-Chief Robert J. Gleason
Ex-Chief Robert J. Gleason of Centereach passed away on August 17, 2016. He was 83-years old. Gleason was a 60-year member of the Lynbrook Fire Department and an ex-Chief. He was also a WWII Army combat veteran. He was husband of the late Muriel, cherished father of Roberta Maffei and her husband Dennis, and Donald R. Gleason and his wife Lauren. Loving grandfather of Allison Maffei and Lindsay Almodovar and her husband Ray. Proud greatgrand-father of Eric, Samantha, Nevina, Ivy, and Violet. A funeral mass was held at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin in Centereach before interment with honors at Calverton National Cemetery Chief Gleason will be missed. - Fire News photos by Ron Monteleone
Nesconset’s Ex-Chief Charles Puleo
The Nesconset Fire Department laid to rest ex-Chief and past-Commissioner Charles Puleo of Titusville, Florida. He was 72. Charlie was a 53-year member of the Nesconset Fire Department and served as Chief and Commissioner. He was also a charter member with the Riders of Fire motorcycle club, and a member of the Suffolk County Fire Police Association, Suffolk County Fire Educators Association, and Life Member of the New York State Chiefs Association. He was the beloved husband of Patricia; and loving father of Tracy, Ron, Nancy, Karen, and Michael. He was also grandfather to 13 and great-grandfather to 6, as well as brother of Vincent (Beverly) Puleo. - Fire News photos by Ron Monteleone
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Obituaries
Lynbrook’s Ex-Chief James McDermott Funeral services for ex-Chief James McDermott, who served as Chief Engineer of the Lynbrook Fire Department from 2005-2006 and again from 2015 to 2016, was held at Our Lady of Peach Church in Lynbrook on August 30, 2016. Ex-Chief McDermott, age 55, passed away unexpectedly. He is the only Lynbrook firefighter to be elected to serve a second term as chief in the 115-year history of the department. He was a member of Rescue Hook, Ladder and Bucket Company No. 1 since 1980. Ex-Chief McDermott was formerly a New York City Police Officer who retired as a Sergeant in 1995. NYPD officers were in attendance and carried the coffin into and out of the church while a pumper, borrowed from the Elmont Fire Department, was used as a hearse. After the church services he was honored with four tower arches en route to the cemetery. McDermott is survived by seven siblings, three children and a grandson. - Fire News photos by Steve and Brian Grogan
Mastic FF & Life Member Ronald John Jones
Mastic Beach life member and former Marine, Ronald John Jones, 82, answered his last alarm on Monday, August 29, 2016. Members of the Mastic Beach Fire Department, VFW Post and members of the Riders of Fire Motorcycle Club assembled at Saint Jude's Roman Catholic Church in Mastic Beach to honor the life and service of Firefighter Jones. His family has asked that donations in his memory be made to the St. Jude’s Shrine Capital Campaign. - Fire News photo by Vincent Ammirati
Page 116, Fire News, October 2016
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