Fire news long island 10 17

VOLUME XLV, NO. 2

W W W .FIRENE WS .COM

Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Since 1973 OCTOBER 2017

- Racing coverage starts on page 72 - Fire News photo by Michael Heller

Fire News Welcomes all to NYSAFD October 12-13 and Firehouse Expo October 19-21 Booth 338

Page 2, Fire News, October 2017

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Fire News, October 2017, Page 3

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In this issue...

A Service for Long Island Firefighters and EMS Heroes

Bellport House Fire Residents narrowly escape injury in a fast-moving August house fire.

See story page 22

Syosset House Fire Firefighters respond to a call for a person trapped, but find all safe.

See story page 26

Garden City Park Blaze Firefighters from Garden City Park and Mineola respond to a secondfloor fire on Peppermill Road.

See story page 35

Sinise Foundation Fundraiser The Babylon Fire Department hosts a star-studded fundraiser for an organization that builds homes for disabled vets.

See story page 55

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, Dennis Berger, 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, JoeLapietra, 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, 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

Up Close & Personal Fireifghters from Levittown, Massapequa, Centereach, Westbury, Setauket and Farmingville.

See story page 104

Obituaries Cuthogue’s Andrew McCaffery Ronkonkoma’s Frederick Stahl Melville’s Fred Harrison RVC’s Don Schluter Setauket’s Jim Duckham Terryville’s John Brett

COPYRIGHT 2017, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 Announcements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pages 4 & 5 EMS Coverage . . . . . . . . . . . . .starts on page 36 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 106 Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . .pages 96 & 110 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . pages 112 & 113 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 114

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 Inc, with corporate offices at 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713.

45 Years of Excellence As you know, Fire News is in its 45th 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

It’s Fire Prevention Month Have you prepared to educate your community about fire prevention? It seems October has arrived without notice. National Fire Prevention Week is observed in the United States and Canada, during the week (from Sunday to Saturday) in which October 9 falls. In the United States, the first Presidential proclamation of Fire Prevention Week was made in 1925 by President Calvin Coolidge.

The NFPA has a great website that all of us should visit. This year, the NFPA is reminding us to plan for two ways out of your home.

They are also reminding us that “every second counts” when a fire occurs and you have to get out. Responders know that in a fire, seconds count. Seconds can mean the difference between residents of our community escaping safely from a fire or having their lives end in tragedy. This program reinforces why everyone needs to have an escape plan.

Last week, I responded to a kitchen fire in my neighborhood. A new homeowner left his stove on while he took his son to high school to check on his new schedule. Whether or not the stove was left on by accident or on purpose, the result of this action caused a fire that resulted in serious damage to the kitchen. Can

you imagine if someone was sleeping in another room?

When you meet with your community, it is imperative that you reinforce what to do when a fire occurs. Reinforce how much time you have to get out. Make sure everyone who attends your fire prevention program knows who to call and what to do in case of an emergency.

Every year, families flock to their local firehouse to observe the many displays and programs about fire safety. I encourage departments that have a fire prevention program to spend a few minutes and write down what your goals and objectives are. One of the single most important things you can teach families is that they must quickly exit a house on fire and to remember to close the door to a room that is on fire as they do. This single action can save lives.

Hazardous materials education should also be part of your program. It is important for your community to know how to recognize potentially dangerous substances, and how to handle and dispose of them properly.

Every year I remind myself of the fires I have responded to at my local colleges,

always keeping in mind the Boland Hall fire in a freshman residence at Seton Hall University on January 19, 2000. Three students died and many more were injured in that blaze, which was one of the deadliest college fires in recent US history. I live near a university. I have responded to several fires in the dorms that were caused by carelessness.

I hope you are ready to take on one of the single most important things we can do as first responders: educate your community about fire safety. Don’t be afraid to ask questions that can save lives. Good luck with your program!

Dennis

Announcements 95 FALLEN FIREFIGHTERS TO BE HONORED AT NATIONAL MEMORIAL

The U.S. Fire Service will pay tribute to the lives of 75 firefighters who died in the line of duty in 2016 and 20 firefighters who died in previous years during the 36th National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service on Sunday, October 8, 2017.

The service begins at 1000 (ET) at the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Maryland, and is open to the public. During the service, a bronze plaque bearing the names of the fallen will be officially added to the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial. These firefighters also will be remembered in a special Candlelight Service on Saturday, October 7, 2017 at 1830 (ET).

For more information about the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation and the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend, go to weekend.firehero.org.

FDNY ADDS 32 NAMES TO WTC MEMORIAL WALL

The FDNY added the names of 32 members who died of illnesses related to their work in the rescue and recovery effort at the World Trade Center to the FDNY World Trade Center Memorial Wall at FDNY Headquarters at 9 MetroTech Center in Brooklyn on September 7.

With the addition of these 32 names, the number of Department members who have succumbed to World Trade Center-related illnesses now stands at 159 individuals.

“The members we honor on our World Trade Center Memorial Wall worked tirelessly in support of the rescue and recovery efforts of the 343 heroes and thousands of innocent victims killed on September 11,” said Commissioner Nigro.

“The 32 members we remember this year were without question brave - they were dedicated and compassionate — and they performed their duties, selflessly and courageously.”

Those to be added to the memorial wall are: Firefighter Gary E. Celentani, Engine Company 233; Lieutenant Cruz Antonio Fernandez, Ladder Company 111; Firefighter Robert J. Ventriglia, Engine Company 207; Firefighter James M. Hicks, Engine Company 7; Firefighter Thomas A. Lynn, Engine Company 5; EMT Norman Valle, Station 20; Firefighter Thomas Farrell, Ladder Company 41; Firefighter Robert W. Johnson, Engine Company 81; Fire Marshal Gregorio Morales, Bronx Base; Firefighter William E. Woodlon, Engine Company 21; Lieutenant Ronald D. Biller, Engine Company 151; Captain Vincent R. Ungaro, Engine Company 235; Firefighter Paul F. Santoro, Engine Company 259; Firefighter John A. Dunn, Engine Company 230; Firefighter Harry L. Davis, Squad 18; Lieutenant Raymond W. Alexander, Engine Company 70; Firefighter Joseph P. O’Toole, Ladder Company 41; Firefighter Kevin A. Rooney Engine Company 42; Firefighter Brian J. Masterson, Marine 9; Firefighter Robert F. DiGiovanni, Ladder Company 144; Lieutenant Edith E. Torres, Bureau of Communications/EMD; Firefighter Robert E. Newman, Ladder Company 18; EMT Rose M. Scott, Bureau of Communications; Lieutenant Steven Sorger, Engine Company 6;

Lieutenant Mario Bastidas, Station 58; Firefighter Roy E. Smith, Engine Company 156; Firefighter James J. Lanza, Ladder Company 43; Paramedic Mark A. Harris, Station 23; Firefighter Raymond J. Pfeifer, Engine Company 40; Lieutenant William J. Kelly, Ladder Company 116; Firefighter William J. Gormley, Ladder Company 174; and Marine Engineer Robert W. Alexander Marine 1.

CENTRAL ISLIP OPEN HOUSE

In conjunction with Fire Prevention Week The Central Islip Fire Department will be holding its annual Fire Prevention Open House, on Friday October 13, 2017 from 1830 to 2100.

The Open House will be held at CIFD Station 2, located at 110 Wheeler Road, Central Islip.

WHERE ARE YOUR DEPARTMENT’S PHOTOS?

We would like to remind our readers that 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. We ask that any photo you do send be high resolution (300 dpi or better) and that you do not retouch, crop, alter or reduce your photos in size when you e-mail them to us.

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.”

We look forward to seeing your department in our next issue.

- Ed.

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Fire News, October 2017, Page 5

Announcements NMFD TO HOST FIRE PREVENTION OPEN HOUSE AND RAG-A-MUFFIN PARADE

The North Massapequa Fire Department (NMFD) will, for the first time in its history, be hosting both its Annual Fire Prevention Open House and the 43rd Annual Children's Rag-AMuffin Parade on the same day, Sunday, October 29, 2017 The Open House will be held at its headquarters, 1000 Broadway, from 1000 to 1500.

The Children’s Rag-A-Muffin Costume Parade will start at 1000 at the corner of North Nassau Avenue, proceed north on Broadway and conclude behind Fire Department Headquarters.

There will be no rain date. All children who participate must be registered to be eligible for free prizes.

The parade has traditionally been held the Sunday before Halloween and the Plainedge High School Marching Band provides some extra atmosphere to an event already charged with excitement. “It’s a memorable day for the children and the costumes are always great,” Chief Ferrara said. “After the parade, they’re sure to be excited with the prospect of winning a bicycle or an education scholarship at the awards ceremony.”

Late registration will take place at 0900 on Sunday, October 29, 2017, at the start of the parade at North Nassau Avenue and North Broadway. Registration can also be done online at www.nmfd-660.com.

FASNY AWARDED $1.5 MILLION SAFER GRANT TO RECRUIT AND RETAIN VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTERS

needed to ensure timely and adequate response in the communities they serve 24-hours a day, seven days a week.

Economic and societal factors continue to present challenges to volunteer recruitment and retention. The goal of the FASNY recruitment campaign funded by this SAFER grant will be to educate the public on the important service volunteer firefighters provide in their The Firemen’s Association of the State of communities and in-turn, solicit more memNew York (FASNY) announced today that it bers of the community to become volunteers. has been awarded a $1.5 million federal grant to recruit new volunteer firefighters.

The four-year Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant is awarded by the United States Department of Homeland Security. The funding will be used to create statewide outreach campaigns, awareness programs and recruitment and retention activities.

“Volunteer fire departments provide vital emergency response services throughout most of New York State. Unfortunately, with increasing callvolumes and other challenges, we need more volunteers to staff those departments properly and effectively,” said Kenneth Pienkowski, President of FASNY. “This SAFER grant will greatly increase the existing efforts of the volunteer fire service to recruit and retain members. We are very grateful to all of our Federal elected officials for their help in securing this grant.”

Currently, there are almost 1,800 volunteer fire departments in New York State, staffed by approximately 100,000 volunteer firefighters.

Use your smartphone to scan the code With an increasingly complex mission and and be directed to our facebook page growing call volumes, more volunteers are

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Page 6, Fire News, October 2017

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Central Islip House Fire

On July 29, 2017, the Central Islip Fire Department was activated for a residential fire on Connetquot Avenue. Upon arrival, commanding units were met with visible fire from the front of the home. The fire was quickly knocked down by first-due units without further incident.

- Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez

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Hicksville Restaurant Fire On June 24, 2017, the Hicksville Fire Department responded to a building fire on South Oyster Bay Road at the Luigi Q’s Restaurant. Crews were met with heavy smoke and fire through the roof of the single-story building. Multiple mutual aid was called and no injuries were reported.

- Fire News photos by Kevin Imm

E. Farmingdale Junkyard Fire

On July 21, 2017, East Farmingdale firefighters responded to a Field Street junkyard for a fire. Mutual aid came from North Lindenhurst, West Babylon, Melville, Wyandanch, North Amityville, North Babylon, Farmingdale and WyandanchWheatley Heights Ambulance, which responded for rehab. The Town of Babylon was called in for a payloader to help move the cars around so the fire could be put out.

- Fire News photo by John Welter

Deer Park Barbecue Fire Extends

On August 30, 2017, the Deer Park Fire Department responded to a fire in a barbecue on a patio in the Yorkshire condominium complex on Green Meadow Court. The barbecue was not far from the front door when lit and fire started coming from the valve. Being close to the front door it was melting the paint on the steel door.

The barbecue was pushed away from the door and up against a wooden fence. North Babylon responded and used a foam line to knock down the fire. Ex-Chief Larry Bradbury had command.

West Islip also responded. - Fire News photo by BTFirePhoto.com

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Fire News, October 2017, Page 9

Ronkonkoma Chimney Fire

Quick Work in Hicksville

On June 17, 2017, the Ronkonkoma Fire Department was toned out for a residential structure fire on 5th Street. Crews from Ronkonkoma, Farmingville and Nesconset assisted in what was a small chimney fire.

- Fire News photo by Amanda Coffey

On May 18, 2017, the Hicksville Fire Department responded to an exterior fire with minor extension at an Acre Lane home. Crews overhauled the area and wet it down before taking up.

- Fire News photo by Kevin Imm

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Quick Work by Franklin Sq.-Munson

The Franklin Square and Munson Fire Department was alerted for smoke in a house on Euston Road South on July 2, 2017. On arrival, a fire on the exterior of the home was discovered with minor extension to the interior. The fire was quickly doused and truck companies opened up and searched the home.

- Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

Small Fire in Holbrook

On July 10, 2017, the Holbrook Fire Department was dispatched for a structure fire in the vicinity of Coates Avenue. Upon arrival, command updated the location to a house on Donald Boulevard.

The chief advised incoming units of a small exterior siding fire that was knocked down by the homeowner. Command requested a camera to check for extension.

- Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez

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Fire News, October 2017, Page 11

Hagerman Junk Fire

The Hagerman Fire Department responded to a fire comprised of tree stumps and various other garbage being burned on Munsell Road on July 12 2017.

- Fire News photos by Dennis Berger

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House Fire in Shirley

Mastic Fire Department responded to a house fire on Pinelawn Avenue between Winston Drive and Sunrise Service Road North in Shirley. Mutual aid came from Brookhaven, Ridge, Manorville, Center Moriches, and the Mastic and Shirley Ambulance companies. At least one firefighter was injured, suffering a cut to his hand. The fire marshal and arson squad were requested to the scene.

- Fire News photos by Thomas J. Lambui

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Ronkonkoma Chimney Fire On June 17, 2017, the Ronkonkoma Fire Department was toned out for a residential structure fire on 5th Street. Crews from Ronkonkoma, Farmingville and Nesconset assisted in what was a small chimney fire.

- Fire News photo by Amanda Coffey

Driveway Car Fire On June 20, 2017, the Hicksville Fire Department responded to a car fire in the driveway of an Alpine Lane home. First arriving units found a fully involved sedan in the driveway but not threatening the home. Engines 932, 933, 937, Hazardous Materials Unit 9312, and ambulance 9322 responded under command of First Assistant Chief Telender. Units stretched a foam line due to burning fuel running down the driveway, and the fire was extinguished in about 15 minutes.

- Fire News photo by Paul Mazza

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Fire News, October 2017, Page 15

Factory Fire in Yaphank

Plainview Brush Fire

The Yaphank Fire Department responded to a fire at the Global Tissue Group factory on Express Drive South. Firefighters found a large machine on fire, deep inside the factory. While a sprinkler head discharged, keeping some of the fire contained, Yaphank’s firefighters were able to extinguish the main body of fire in under a half an hour.

Mutual aid came from Farmingville, Hagerman, Ridge, Coram and Medford.

- Fire News photo by Thomas J. Lambui

On June 23, 2017, the Plainview Fire Department responded to multiple calls for a brush fire with multiple locations given on Washington Avenue. Crews extinguished a fire in the county recharge basin on Washington Avenue.

- Fire News photo by Kevin Imm

Page 16, Fire News, October 2017

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N. Amityville Gas Station Fire The North Amityville Fire Company was alerted for a fire at the Gulf Gas Station on Route 110 early on July 28, 2017.

Third Assistant Chief Riordan arrived to find heavy smoke coming from the building and located the fire in the shop area of the building. Chief of Department Collins arrived and took command. Several vehicles were found to be burning inside the building and the fire was spreading to the upper part of the building. It took about an hour to bring the fire under control. Mutual aid came from South Farmingdale, East Farmingdale, Copiague and Wyandanch-Wheatley Heights Ambulance Corps. One firefighter suffered burns to the neck and hand.

- Fire News photo by Paul Mazza

DĂŠjĂ vu in E. Farmingdale The East Farmingdale Fire Company responded to Field Street on July 27, 2017 for a reported vehicle fire in a recycling yard. Second Assistant Chief Welliver arrived to several stacks of vehicles burning for the second time in less than a week. Chief of Department Joseph arrived and took command. Crews deployed master streams to knock down the fire, and equipment was brought in to remove vehicles so the remaining pockets of fire could be extinguished. The business was closed at the time and there were no reported injuries. It took about two hours to bring the fire under control.

- Fire News photo by Paul Mazza

Huntington Manor House Fire The Huntington Manor Fire Department responded to a house fire on Alpine Way in South Huntington on July 8, 2017. Firefighters arrived to fire on the first floor of the home, which was undergoing renovations. Mutual aid came from Dix Hills and Greenlawn, with Melville for standby. The Huntington Community First Aid Squad treated three firefighters at the scene for minor injuries.

Units were under the command of Huntington Manor Chief Mike DePasquale, supported by Assistant Chiefs Jon Hoffmann, Chuck Brady and Jim Glidden.

- Fire News photo by Steve Silverman

Setauket House, Car Fire Early on August 3, 2017, the Setauket Fire Department was activated for a residential structure fire on Tyburn Lane. Upon arrival, units were met with heavy fire showing from an attached garage of the home, as well as a fully involved vehicle in the street. Mutual aid was called from Selden, Centereach and Port Jefferson. Both fires were knocked down quickly with no injuries reported.

Command requested a fire marshal to the scene for an investigation.

- Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez

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Wantagh House Fire & Collapse

On June 29, 2017, a Nassau County Police Sergeant on patrol and passerby East Meadow Third Assistant Chief Walsh reported a heavy volume of smoke and fire coming from the front of a home on Jerusalem Avenue in Wantagh. Firefighters under Lieutenant Dan Brandon arrived, stretched a line into the home, and encountered a heavy volume of fire on the first floor, throughout the house and above them. Ladder 1 under the command of ex-Captain Steve Cohen arrived and conducted a search. Engines 2 and 4 arrived to assist. As crews were attacking the fire, Chief Kelly observed the roof starting to buckle, prompting him go to an exterior attack.

Mutual aid came from Seaford, East Meadow, Levittown, Massapequa, North Massapequa, Merrick, Bellmore, North Bellmore and Bethpage. The fire was brought under control in just under an hour. The intense heat and fire caused damage to the homes on each side of the home. One Wantagh firefighter sustained an injury when part of the ceiling fell on him. Second Assistant Chief Ken Kelly was Incident Commander. As things were winding down, Wantagh Dispatcher Ed Campis alerted the standby units for a reported overturned auto on the Wantagh Parkway.

- Fire News photos by Harry Loud

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East Farmingdale House Fire

East Farmingdale responded to a house fire on Hallock Street.

Chief Lewis requested mutual aid from Farmingdale, South Farmingdale and Melville. Chief Joe Iuzzini arrived and took command, assisted by Chiefs Welliver and Lewis. East Farmingdale units from all three station responded.

- Fire News photos by John Welter

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Hempstead Fire Draws Spectators

A raging fire gutted a vacant house on Greenwich Street in the Village of Hempstead on August 17, 2017. Hundreds of onlookers watched as flames ripped through the two-story house, which was the site of at least one previous fire. Hempstead firefighters arrived quickly and were joined by several surrounding departments in an effort to bring the blaze under control. Nassau County Fire Marshals were also summoned to the incident.

- Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

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Fire News, October 2017, Page 21

Quick Work at Apt. Fire The Hempstead Fire Department made a quick knockdown on a one-room fire in a two-story apartment house on Stewart Avenue on August 18, 2017. The blaze was on the first floor with no extension to other areas of the building. Chief Clark and Chief Boles were on the scene.

- Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

Suspicious Fire in Coram On August 17, 2017, firefighters responded to the rear of a Coram-Swezeytown Road barn-like structure for a fire. It was the second fire in a week at the same location. The Middle Island Fire Department and SCPD 6th Precinct officers responded to the scene. Arson investigators were notified.

- Fire News photo by Thomas J. Lambui

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House Fire in Bellport

Residents narrowly escaped serious injury from a house fire on Bayview Avenue, just south of Brookhaven Avenue on August 9, 2017. The Bellport Fire Department, South Country Ambulance, and the SCPD responded. Medics checked the occupants of the house for injuries. The fire was under investigation.

- Fire News photos by Thomas J. Lambui

Page 24, Fire News, October 2017

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Upper Brookville Blaze On August 2, 2017, the East Norwich Fire Company was dispatched for a house fire in Upper Brookville.

Multiple lines were placed into operation with assistance from multiple mutual aid companies.

Extensive overhaul was completed and the scene turned over to the Nassau County Fire Marshal’s Office for investigation.

-Fire News photo by OverTheEdgePhotography.com

Valley Stream Basement Fire The Valley Stream Fire Department responded to a fire in the basement of a private dwelling on Keller Street on the afternoon of August 22, 2017. Mutual aid companies assisted at the scene.

- Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

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Smithtown Attic Fire The Smithtown Fire Department responded to a house fire on Steven Place off Terry Road in Smithtown on August 9, 2017. Firefighters arrived to heavy fire conditions in an attic. Crews quickly advanced lines and contained the fire to the area of origin. Mutual aid came from Hauppauge and Nesconset while Kings Park and Saint James stood by. The Smithtown Fire Marshal along with Suffolk Police investigated. All operations were under the command of Chief Michael Landargan.

- Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber

Page 26, Fire News, October 2017

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Syosset Fire On August 15, 2017, the Syosset Fire Department was alerted for a house fire with a person trapped on Avon Court. Upon arrival, all occupants were accounted for and crews extinguished a mattress fire and checked for extension. Units were under the command of Chief of the Department Douglas Share.

- Fire News photo by Kevin Imm

Oak Island House Fire On the night of August 22, 2017, the Babylon Fire Department was alerted for a house fire on Oak Island. As units were responding on the Robert Moses Causeway, the fire could be seen from a distance. Babylon boat 1-2-12 and mutual aid boats from West Islip, Bay Shore, Lindenhurst and West Babylon were also called to the scene. As the engines arrived to the Oak Island Association parking lot to stage, firefighters were brought by boat with handlines and portable pumps to fight the fire along with the master streams from the boats. One firefighter suffered a minor injury.

- Fire News photo by Paul Mazza

Page 28, Fire News, October 2017

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North Amityville Car Fire Early on August 28, 2017, the North Amityville Fire Company was alerted for a car fire in front of a home on Bayview Avenue.

First Assistant Chief Rollins and Engine 1-7-1 arrived to find an SUV fully involved in the street.

The crew from 1-7-1 put one line into operation and had the fire extinguished in about 10 minutes.

- Fire News photo by Paul Mazza

Fast Work in Coram Recently, the Coram Fire Department made quick work of a working car fire on Farragut Court in Coram.

- Fire News photo

by Jim Brown

Dix Hills Rescues Pets from House Fire The Dix Hills Fire Department responded to a house fire on Seneca Avenue on September 4, 2017. Units arrived to heavy smoke condition and fire in the kitchen of a single-story home. Firefighters searched the home and rescued three cats and three dogs. Dix Hills EMTs assisted by a veterinary technician from the Melville Fire Department treated the animals.

Two of the cats suffered burns and smoke inhalation and were transported to a nearby animal hospital.

The dogs were treated at the scene for smoke inhalation. The homeowner was transported to Stony Brook University Hospital by Dix Hills Rescue with minor burns and smoke inhalation. The fire was controlled in 40 minutes, and contained to the kitchen with minor extension to the attic. Crews were under the command of Chief Tom Napolitano and Assistant Chiefs Alan Berkowitz and Brett Tepe. Assistance was provided by the Commack, Deer Park, Melville and Greenlawn, Suffolk Fire-Rescue Coordinators and Suffolk Police. The Suffolk Police Arson Squad and Huntington Fire Marshal were investigating.

- Fire News photo by Steve Silverman

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Fire News, October 2017, Page 29

Columbus Blvd.

House Fire The North Amityville Fire Company was called to a house fire on Columbus Boulevard on August 21, 2017. Assistant Chief Miller arrived to heavy fire showing from the exposure two side, which spread to the first floor and attic.

First Assistant Chief Rollins, while en route, requested mutual aid. Chief of Department Collins and Third Assistant Chief Riordan arrived with Chief Collins taking command.

Engine 1-7-1 was followed by East Farmingdale Ladder 1-5-15. The crew from 1-7-1 and mutual aid companies put multiple lines into operation to bring the fire under control in about an hour. Mutual aid came from Amityville, Copiague, North Lindenhurst and Lindenhurst, and Wyandanch-Wheatley Heights Ambulance Corps.

- Fire News photos by Paul Mazza

Page 30, Fire News, October 2017

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Huntington Manor House Fire

The Huntington Manor Fire Department was dispatched to a working structure fire on Fourth Avenue and West 13th Street in Huntington Station on September 3, 2017. Crews stretched two lines to the front door and proceeded with an interior attack.

Mutual aid was provided by Huntington and Melville, while Greenlawn and Halesite handled another alarm in the district. Huntington Community First Aid Squad provided standby. Units were under the command of Chief Mike DePasquale, supported by Assistant Chiefs Jon Hoffmann, Chuck Brady and Jim Glidden. Suffolk FRES Coordinators, and the Suffolk County Police Arson Squad and Huntington Fire Marshals are investigating.

- Fire News photos by Steve Silverman and Huntington Manor FD

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Car Fire at Melville Apartments

The Melville Fire Department responded to a car fire at the Avalon Court Apartments on Court North Drive, on August 9, 2017. First arriving units found an active fire in a car parked up against the garage of an apartment building. Assisting Melville was a nearby Suffolk Police ESU truck that hooked up a chain and pulled the burning car away from the building. Crews quickly extinguished the blaze, which melted part of the siding and soffit on the building. Firefighters checked the building and there was no extension and only superficial damage to the exterior. The incident was under the command of Chief Jason Bernfeld, and Assistant Chiefs Chris Nolan and David Kaplan.

- Fire News story by Steve Silverman, photo by Melville FD

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Shirley Car Fire

On August 27, 2017, the Mastic Fire Department responded to a car fire in the southbound lanes of the William Floyd Parkway, at the intersection of McGraw Street.

- Fire News photo by Thomas J. Lambui

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Garbage Truck Fire

On August 14, 2017, the Plainview Fire Department was alerted for a report of a garbage truck fire at Old Country Road and the exit ramp to the Seaford Oyster Bay Expressway. Crews were able to move the truck to Kalda Lane across from the exit and extinguished a small fire between the cab and the outside wall of the truck.

- Fire News photo by Kevin Imm

NSP MVA and Fire On August 24, 2017, the Plainview Fire Department responded to an MVA with confirmed fire on the eastbound Northern State Parkway by Manetto Hill Road. Engine 9511 stretched one line and got water on the fire while crews stretched an additional line. No injuries were reported.

- Fire News photo by Kevin Imm

FireNews.com

Fire News, October 2017, Page 35

Hempstead Transformer Blows

Hempstead firefighters on the scene of a transformer fire on the afternoon of August 26, 2017, on Fairway Drive.

- Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

Garden City Park Fire

The Garden City Park Fire Department battled a fire on the second floor of a private dwelling on Peppermill Road on August 13, 2017. Mineola responded at the FAST. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

Page 36, Fire News, October 2017

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EMS ACROSS THE ISLAND

3 Dead, 4 Injured in Medford MVA

The Medford Fire Department responded to an MVA on Station Road between Woodside Avenue and Sills Road on August 14, 2017. Two people were reported pinned and multiple ejections were reported. Two people were pronounced dead on scene and another died afterwards. Four injured were transported to Stony Brook University Hospital by Suffolk County Police Helicopter and South Country and Medford Ambulance.

- Fire News photos by Cameron Wilken, Thomas J. Lambui and Bryan Lopez

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Fire News, October 2017, Page 37

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Propane Burn-off in Wantagh

On August 25, 2017, the Wantagh Fire Department responded to a report of a leaking propane tank on Merikoke Avenue in Seaford Harbor. Upon arrival, it was determined that the tank was approximately three-quarters full and the valve could not be turned off.

The only solution was to conduct a burn-off. Chief James

Bloomfield was in charge, assisted by First Assistant Chief Joe Gross III and the safety officer. Engines 1, 3 and 7, the HazMat Unit, Rehab, and Rescue 1 all responded and were on scene for approximately 90 minutes.

- Fire News photos by Kevin Regan, PIO

FireNews.com

Fire News, October 2017, Page 39

Melville Assists East Farmingdale Hazmat

The Melville Fire Department was requested to assist the East Farmingdale Fire Department with a hazardous materials incident on Smith Street on August 17, 2017.

East Farmingdale units were working a house fire on Walnut Avenue East just before the incident. Melville arrived and found a vehicle had run over a five-gallon container of sulfuric acid, which had fallen from a cesspool truck. The acid splashed on the driver who suffered minor burns to his arm. He was transported to Huntington Hospital by the Melville Rescue Squad. The Hicksville Fire Department HazMat Team was requested to respond, and their members were able to neutralize the spill. Also activated was the Town of Babylon Level 3 Hazmat Plan which brought the response of the Wyandanch, North Amityville, Babylon, West Babylon, Wyandanch-Wheatley Heights Ambulance, and the Babylon Town Fire Marshals. The Babylon units handled decontamination, rehab and support functions. About 75 firefighters and EMS personnel were on the scene with 10 apparatus and four ambulances. The incident was under the command of Melville Assistant Chief David Kaplan. The scene was secured and turned over to NYS DEC, which handled the removal of contaminated material.

Suffolk County Fire-Rescue Coordinators were also on the scene.

- Fire News story by Steve Silverman, photos courtesy Melville FD

Page 40, Fire News, October 2017

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Gas Line Break in Holbrook

On June 26, 2017, Holbrook firefighters responded to a call for a gas leak when workers broke a main at Seneca Middle School on Main Street. Sayville and Holtsville also responded - Fire News photo by Dennis Berger

Medevac for Fall Victim The Melville Fire Department responded to a man injured in a fall from a ladder inside a warehouse on Republic Road on July 17, 2017.

The 45-year-old victim suffered serious injuries when he fell approximately 20 feet from the ladder onto a cement floor. Melville Rescue Squad personnel stabilized the patient who was airlifted by Suffolk Police to Stony Brook University Hospital. Units were under the command of Chief Jason Bernfeld and Assistant Chief David Kaplan.

- Fire News story by Steve Silverman, photos courtesy Melville FD

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Fire News, October 2017, Page 41

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Babylon Town Chiefs Welcome Wyandanch Fire Company Decon Team

At the regular meeting of the Babylon Town Fire Chief’s Association held on June 21, 2017, President Walter ‘Gator’ Singer announced Wyandanch Fire Company had formed a hazmat decon team. After months of training, practice and preparation the team held a joint drill on June 3, 2017, with the Babylon Town Hazmat Team to demonstrate their equipment. The team met with the Town of Babylon Hazmat Team leaders and some of its members assembling and demonstrating their equipment. Several members were dressed in hazmat suits and went through the decon station.

The drill went extremely well and was critiqued. A hearty welcome to the Wyandanch Fire Company HazMat Team and many thanks for all of the hard work that the chiefs, board, officers and members put into this great project.

-Fire News photos by Brad Maier

FireNews.com

Fire News, October 2017, Page 43

Flood Help in Garden City Garden City firefighters and public works crews had to assist several drivers in different locations after their vehicles were stuck in torrential rains in Garden City on August 18, 2017.

- Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

Gas Line Hit in Garden City The Garden City Fire Department was on the scene of a ruptured gas line at Salisbury Avenue and Adams Street on the morning of August 23, 2017. A construction crew struck the gas line and stood by with firefighters as they awaited emergency crews from PSEG. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

Page 44, Fire News, October 2017

3 Injured in Deer Park 2-Car On June 17, 2017, Deer Park Fire Department responded to a twocar MVA on Scott Avenue during a heavy rainstorm. The driver and two other people from one of the vehicles were extricated and transported to Good Samaritan Hospital.

- Fire News photo by BTFirePhoto.com

FireNews.com

Overturn in Freeport On June 23, 2017, the Freeport Fire Department was called to an MVA with overturn and possible pin at the intersection of Raynor and Bedell Streets. When firefighters arrived, they found an overturned sedan with no entrapment. One person was injured. Units were under the command of Freeport Chief of Department Matt Colgan.

- Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com

MVA on the SOB

Bellport MVA

On the evening of June 15, 2017, the Syosset Fire Department responded to a single-car MVA on the northbound Seaford Oyster Bay Expressway by the Long Island Expressway. One person was injured and transported.

- Fire News photo by Kevin Imm

The Bellport Fire Department responded to a two-car MVA on June 22, 2017, on westbound Sunrise Highway just west of the Station Road overpass. The injured were transported to nearby Brookhaven Medical Center. - Fire News photo by Dennis Berger

FireNews.com

Fire News, October 2017, Page 45

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Greenlawn MVA Injures Two 2 Injured in Hicksville MVA On June 9, 2017, the Hicksville Fire Department responded to an MVA at the intersection of West John Street and North Broadway.

Two people were injured.

- Fire News photo by Kevin Imm

The Greenlawn Fire Department was dispatched for an MVA with injuries on Park Avenue on June 25, 2017. EMS crews responded with two ambulances and stabilized two patients for transport to Huntington Hospital. PSE&G was notified for a cracked utility pole.

- Fire News photo courtesy Greenlawn FD

1 Injured in Centereach MVA

Pt. Lookout-Lido MVA

On July 1, 2017, the Centereach Fire Department responded to an overturn MVA on Avenue C just off of Portion Road. One patient was taken to a local hospital with minor injuries.

- Fire News photo by Amanda Coffey

On July 11, 2017, the Point Lookout-Lido Fire Department operated at the scene of a two-car accident with rollover on the southbound Loop Parkway, west of the drawbridge. The drivers of both vehicles were transported to area hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries.

- Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com

Car Into Building in Franklin Sq.

Copiague 2-Car MVA

One person was injured after a car struck a building in Franklin Square on July 4, 2017. The accident occurred in the rear parking lot of a row of businesses on Hempstead Turnpike near New Hyde Park Road when the car struck the exterior wall of the apartments located behind the businesses. Franklin Square firefighters and EMS personnel were on the scene along with the TRT matrix to secure the stability of the building.

- Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

On June 11, 2017, the Copiague Fire Department was called to an MVA with reported overturn at 35th Street and Dixon Avenue.

Third Assistant Chief Miller arrived to find a pickup truck on its roof after it collided with an SUV. Engines 1-3-5, 1-3-9, Heavy Rescue 1-3-3, and Ambulances 1-3-2 and 1-3-27 responded. The driver of the pickup was out prior to the fire department’s arrival.

The driver of the pickup and a person in SUV suffered minor injuries and were taken to Good Samaritan Hospital.

- Fire News photo by Paul Mazza

FireNews.com

Fire News, October 2017, Page 47

Center Moriches MVA

On July 6, 2017, the Center Moriches Fire Department responded to an MVA on the Sunrise Highway North Service Road just east of Wading River Road. A driver of a sedan was injured after losing control of his vehicle hitting and severing two telephone poles and a tree before coming to rest on the front lawn of a residence. The driver, who was able to remove himself from the vehicle, was taken to Brookhaven Memorial Hospital via Center Moriches FD Ambulance with undisclosed injuries. The Suffolk County Police also responded. Chief Ian Foley was in charge of the scene.

- Fire News photo by Thomas J. Lambui

Wantagh MVA Wantagh firefighters responded to a two-car accident on North Jerusalem Road near Haven Lane on July 17, 2017. The driver of one car sustained minor injuries and was stabilized and transported by the Wantagh/ Levittown Ambulance. Wantagh Rescue 2 assisted while Engine 2 spread drying agent and stabilized the cars.

- Fire News photo by Harry Loud

Fleeing the Scene On June 10, 2017, the Islip Terrace Fire Department was activated for reported heavy rescue in the area of eastbound Sunrise Highway and Carleton Avenue. One person was transported from one vehicle and the occupants of the other vehicle fled the scene.

- Fire News photo

by Steve Walsh

Page 48, Fire News, October 2017

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Medevac Required at Shirley MVA

Melville MVA The Melville Fire Department responded to an accident with overturn and reported entrapment at the North Service Road of the Long Island Expressway and Broad Hollow Road on August 1, 2017, between an SUV and tractor trailer. Both drivers were transported with non-life threatening injuries.

- Fire News photo by Paul Mazza

3 Injured in E. Patchogue MVA On July 15, 2017, the Brookhaven Fire Department, Shirley Ambulance and Suffolk Police responded to an MVA on Montauk Highway near Plymouth Place. Hydraulic tools were required to extricate the driver, who was medevac’d to the hospital.

- Fire News photo by Thomas J. Lambui

On August 9, 2017, the North Patchogue Fire Department responded to an MVA at the intersection of East Main Street and South Country Road in East Patchogue. Three people were injured and transported to Brookhaven Memorial Medical Center Hospital.

- Fire News photo

by Dennis Berger

Page 50, Fire News, October 2017

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6 Injured in Jericho

2 Hurt in Hicksville MVA

On June 18, 2017, the Jericho Fire Department was alerted for an MVA with pin at the intersection of South Marginal Road and North Broadway. Six people were injured and transported to local hospitals. Crews secured the car and handled a spill.

- Fire News photo by Kevin Imm

On May 31, 2017, the Hicksville Fire Department responded to an MVA at the intersection of New South and Old Country Roads.

Two people were transported and crews secured the vehicles.

- Fire News photo by Kevin Imm

3 Injured in N. Patchogue 3-Car

MC Fatality in Centereach

On July 31 2017, the Patchogue Fire Department responded to a three-car MVA on East Woodside Avenue and Route 112 in North Patchogue. Two adults were transported to Brookhaven Memorial Hospital Medical Center and one child was transported to Stony Brook Medical Center.

- Fire News photo by Dennis Berger

On July 10, 2017, the Centereach Fire Department was activated for a motorcycle MVA with a reported pinned victim on North Washington Avenue. The driver of the motorcycle was pronounced dead at the scene, the other driver was transported to Stony Brook University Hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

- Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez

2 Injured in Eastport MVA

Garden City 2-Car MVA

Two people were injured in an accident in Eastport on July 5, 2017, on County Road 51 (Moriches-Riverhead Road). The Eastport Fire Department, East Moriches Ambulance, and SCPD 7th Precinct responded. The injured were taken to local hospitals via ambulances with undisclosed injuries.

- Fire News photo by Thomas J. Lambui

Multiple ambulances were on the scene for multiple injuries after a two-vehicle MVA at the intersection of Cathedral Avenue and Third Street in Garden City on July 5, 2017. The impact of the crash sent one car onto the sidewalk where it landed on its roof. Garden City firefighters along with County ESU and EMS responded to the accident.

- Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

FireNews.com

Fire News, October 2017, Page 51

Holtsville MVA On June 28, 2017, the Holtsville Fire Department responded to an MVA on Expressway Drive North with overturn. One person was transported to a local hospital with minor injuries.

- Fire News photo by Amanda Coffey

Ronkonkoma MVA On August 5, 2017, the Ronkonkoma Fire Department was activated for an MVA with reported overturn at the intersection of Ronkonkoma Avenue and Hillcrest Street. Upon arrival Chief Eric Cook was met with an overturned vehicle in the roadway and advised incoming units the driver was self extricated. Suffolk County Police ESU uprighted the auto and the crew of Rescue 8 secured it. The driver was transported to Stony Brook University Hospital for his injuries.

- Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez

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Blue Point Car-into-House Blue Point firefighters responded to an MVA with a car into a house on Division Avenue at Montauk Highway on June 5, 2017.

- Fire News photo by Dennis Berger

Page 52, Fire News, October 2017

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Wantagh Truck Into Pool On August 7, 2017, the Wantagh Fire Department responded to an MVA in which a truck collided with a car and left Seamans Neck Road crashing into a pool. One person in the car was injured.

- Fire News photos by Kevin Imm and K2MPhotography.com

FireNews.com

Fire News, October 2017, Page 53

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Sinise Foundation Fundraiser at Babylon

On September 1, 2017, retired FDNY Captain John Vigiano and his wife Jan, held a fundraiser at the North Babylon firehouse with the help of North Babylon Fire Company, the Deer Park Fire Department and the Constantino Brumidi Lodge #2211 of Deer Park, and many other volunteers. The fundraiser was for the Gary Sinise Foundation. Appearing at the event was Sinise, country singer Chely Wright, singer Teresa Sareo and the emcee was News 4 New York Weatherman Dave Price and Montana, an American bald eagle. The night raised money to help Sinise’s foundation, which builds and renovates homes for disabled American veterans across the country.

- Fire News photos by BTFirePhoto.com

Page 56, Fire News, October 2017

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Hicksville Lane Dedicated to FDNY FF Pfeifer On August 26, 2017, a ceremony was held dedicating Ballad Lane in Hicksville, as Raymond J. Pfeifer Way. Ray, a FDNY firefighter, passed away after a years’ long battle with 9/11 related cancer. His, along with others, dedicated commitment and efforts to other 9/11 survivors, resulted in the renewal of the Zadroga Bill. Rest in Peace Ray, we’ll take it from here, brother.

- Fire News photos by Thomas J. Lambui

FireNews.com

Fire News, October 2017, Page 57

Deer Park Juniors Moving Up

On June 25, 2017, four Deer Park Juniors made the jump to Probationary Firefighters and received classroom and live car fire training at Deer Park’s Training Center.

- Fire News photos by BTFirePhoto.com

Page 58, Fire News, October 2017

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Nassau County Juniors Fire Camp Fahrenheit 516

During the week of July 24, 2017, 46 Juniors and Explorers from 22 different fire companies participated in the third annual Nassau County Juniors Fire Camp Fahrenheit 516. The camp was designed to give kids a first hand, hands-on experience with the same training that probies go through. The camp program was designed by the County Juniors Board of Directors, Academy Staff Chief Hughes, Chief Wilders and the FSA Instructors. The main goal was to give them something they wouldn’t experience anywhere else. Through the end

of camp evaluations there was a big call for EMS so with the help of the Nassau County EMS Academy, a sixth day was added to the camp to certify the campers in CPR and first aid. Once again, with the help of Nassau Board of Directors, VEEB Board and the FSA Facilities Operation Division, many of the evolutions were live streamed.

New ideas gained will be incorporated into the camp for next year. This camp was put together with a lot of different hands. Thanks go out to the Fire Service Academy and the

entire VEEB Board, the Nassau County fire departments and firematic organizations that helped sponsor the camp; if not for their continuous and generous support this camp would not have been able to be such a success.

To take a look at what went on at the camp go to www.ncjfa.org and click on “Fire Camp.”

You can also catch some action on YouTube (search “Nassau Juniors Camp Fahrenheit 201”) or follow us on Facebook and Instagram by searching “Nassau Juniors.”

- Fire News photos provided

John A. Masem, Sr., Memorial Scholarship

The John A. Masem, Sr., Memorial Scholarship was begun by the Suffolk County Volunteer Firefighter’s Association (SCVFA) in 2002 to honor the memory of past-President John A. Masem, Sr., from the Medford Fire Department, an educator who believed strongly in the power of higher education. It is given out to a college-bound child or grandchild of a volunteer firefighter that exemplified the volunteer spirit

in the community, among other criteria.

This year Keith Vella, chairman of the SCVFA scholarship committee, presented $500 checks to Bradley Malm and Thomas Newham IV. Bradley and Thomas are the grandchildren of ex-Chief Thomas Newham of the Patchogue Fire Department. Congratulations to Bradley and Thomas and good luck in college!

- Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam

Page 62, Fire News, October 2017

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Freeport’s Cooke Honored with Liberty Medal Senator John E. Brooks honored Lieutenant Cory Cooke, a third-generation volunteer firefighter with the Freeport Fire Department, with the highest honor bestowed upon an individual by the New York State Senate — the Liberty Medal, which is awarded to individuals as a special commendation for exceptional, heroic, or humanitarian acts on behalf of their fellow New Yorkers, due to his heroism in saving residents from a burning house on Roosevelt Avenue on September 12, 2016.

Cooke, driving to work, saw, and entered a burning house where he encountered four occupants in the living room attempting to evacuate an elderly woman on the second floor.

As the house filled with thick smoke, Cooke physically guided the four people on the first floor to safety. Told that the elderly woman had fallen from the second floor to the bottom of the staircase, without hesitation he ran back into the smoke-filled home, and crawled toward the kitchen. Guided by the terrified cries from the 90-year-old woman, Cooke finally located the victim lying on the floor, lifted her and swiftly dragged her towards the door, all the while breathing in noxious smoke.

- Fire News photo provided

East End Beats Its Brothers On August 11, 2017, the members of the Massapequa Fire Department played the annual softball tournament with each of the three firehouses playing against each other. The top winner this year was East End. - Fire News photo by Ed Tuffy

Page 64, Fire News, October 2017

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Valley Stream Honors Long-Timers

Over 150 Years of Dedicated Service

The Valley Stream Fire Department honored their 40- and 50-year members at a recent ceremony. (Left to right): 40-year member ex-Chief William Croak and Chief James Ervolino; and 50-year member ex-Chief Charles Parker. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm

Melville Fire Department members John Wrobel with 53 years of service, ex-Chief Al Silvestri with 63 years of service, and Captain Kenny Low with 37 years of service are pictured at a recent alarm with the Fire Police.

- Fire News photo by Steve Silverman

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Fire News, October 2017, Page 65

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Dix Hills Junior Fire Academy Develops Interest in Emergency Careers

The Dix Hills Fire Department held their Junior Fire/EMS Academy for those Town of Huntington children ages 11 to 14, interested in careers in fire, EMS, medicine or emergency management. The program was created by the Dix Hills Fire Department and Town of Huntington, and this was the camp’s second season.

“Our fire department handles over 2300 fire and ambulance calls every year. We have had such a wonderful relationship with this community that we wanted to give back to our local youth and show them the exciting world of fire, emergency medical services and community service. With the support of the Town of Huntington, this camp was a success again,” said Tom Napolitano, the Chief of the Department.

This labor of love for the fire department started with an idea of just showing the kids the fire trucks, and ended progressing to a schedule of events which include CPR certification, first aid skills, a tour of the 106th NYS Air National Guard Rescue Wing and their planes, helicopters and fire crash trucks, Suffolk County Fire Rescue and Emergency Services headquarters and arson detection dog, Suffolk County Fire Academy, Suffolk Police aviation unit, LI MacArthur Airport Fire Rescue, and real life leadership training. The group is supervised by a cadre of 12 volunteer firefighters and EMTs, who provide not only the training skills but, most importantly, real life training on leadership.

“We feel as if these kids are the future of our community and our fire service. Steeped in tradition of the volunteer fire service, it is our obligation to teach what has been taught to us over the years. Seeing these young men and woman this week, makes me confident that our tradition of service will continue,” said Commissioner Todd Cohen, one of the founders of the program.

- Fire News photos by Rachel Sarah Berkowitz

Page 68, Fire News, October 2017

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Bethpage Juniors Train On June 25, 2017, the Bethpage Fire Department Juniors trained with department members on vehicle extrication.

- Fire News photos

by Kevin Imm

FireNews.com

Fire News, October 2017, Page 69

North Massapequa Scholarship Winners The North Massapequa Fire Department recently recognized recipients of their annual scholarship awards. (Left to right): North Massapequa Fire District Commissioner Marc Timpano; 1st Assistant Chief Joseph Pesale, Jr.; Chief of Department Fred Ferrara; scholarship recipient Firefighter Dylan Schwartz of Ladder Company 1; Courtney Abrams, daughter of Firefighter Marc Abrams of Engine Company 3; Barbara Ferraioli, wife of ex-Chief Tom Ferraioli of Ladder Company 1 receiving on behalf of their grandson, Christopher Ferraioli; 3rd Assistant Chief Mark Frascella and 2nd Assistant Chief Jimmy Maroldo.

- Fire News photo by Kurt Ludwig

Uniondale Dedicated New Unit 756 On July 23, 2017, Uniondale Protection Company No. 4 held a dedication ceremony for Tactical Support Unit 756.

The rig, which was put into service in mid-2016, is the third and newest piece of apparatus to operate out of Uniondale's “Midtown Truck” Company. TSU 756 is outfitted with many of the truck company-related tools that Ladders 754 and 7544 have, and features a four-man cab behind the driver and officer. The rig is built on a Freightliner chassis and had its box built by Rosenbauer.

The best of luck to the company with their new apparatus.

- Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com

Firehouse Kitchen Spencer’s Chili

By Ray Cooney I know I’ve written a few articles about chili, but I promise, this one is a little different. Firehouse Kitchen was asked by Hormel Chili to judge the “America's Best Firehouse Chili” contest. My job was to pick the top 10 recipes, which would then be judged by a group of people looking for the top three choices. I thought, “No problem. I’ve judged chili contests before” But this was different.

The difference was that at all the chili contest I have judged before, I was able to taste the chili. At this one, I had to judge just by reading the recipe. When Hormel Chili began their Facebook campaign, I posted it on my Facebook account as well. We received hundreds and hundreds of submissions. During the month that you could submit your recipe, I was up every night until 2 a.m. trying to figure out which Chili was the best.

After I found my top 10, Hormel Chili designed a campaign to pick the top three.

There was a lot riding on this contest. The first-place prize was a check for $10,000 for the fire department that the chili was from and Hormel Chili donated an additional $20,000 to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.

The finals were held at the New York City Fireman’s Museum in Manhattan. I couldn’t think of a better place. When I arrived at the museum, it didn’t smell like a museum — it smelled like chili. The three finalists were busy preparing their recipes. I was stunned to learn that a New York City firefighter didn’t make the top three! The top three were from Florida, Pennsylvania and Louisiana. We had Firefighter Craig Winebaum, from greater Naples, Florida; Firefighter Andrew Drescher, from Union Deposit, Pennsylvania (right by Hershey Park) and Firefighter Jeremy Chauvin, from Saint John’s Parish in Louisiana. The judges, at the finals were myself, the head of the Hormel Chili brand and the head of The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, the great Ron Siarnicki (who does so much for firefighters).

Before I announce the winner, I just wanted to say thanks again to all the firefighters who sent in recipes and gave their support to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. AND THE WINNER WAS: Louisiana Firefighter Jeremy Chauvin and his “Spencer's Chili.” It had a mild, sweet, delicious taste. I asked Jeremy where the name came from, and he told me the story about one of his firefighter brothers, named Spencer, who was killed last year while responding to a car accident. Jeremy gave me a bracelet that said “Spencer’s Way.” It is still on my wrist.

Special thanks to Hormel Chili for making this contest happen and of course all the helpers and volunteers that were there.

Get ready, America! Season Seven of Firehouse Kitchen just started.

Be sure to tune in! And remember, these cooks save lives. To find out more about Firehouse Kitchen or to have your firehouse featured on the show, e-mail firehousekitchentv@gmail.com and don’t forget to friend us on Facebook.

Page 70, Fire News, October 2017

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6th Battalion Parade

On August 26, 2017, the Bellmore Fire Department hosted the annual 6th Battalion parade in celebration of their 120th anniversary. The parade was followed by a carnival.

The 6th battalion is comprised of the Bellmore, North Bellmore, East Meadow, Levittown, Massapequa, North Massapequa, Merrick, North Merrick, Seaford and Wantagh.

- Fire News photos by Drew Silverman, Paul Mazza, Kevin Madigan and Steve Takacs

FireNews.com

Fire News, October 2017, Page 71

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Hempstead Invitational Drill Place 1st 2nd 2nd 4th 5th

Hybrid Charity Drill at Central Islip -Fire News photos

by Charlotte Campbell

August 5, 2017

Team Points Islip 17 Port Washington 16 Bay Shore 16 West Sayville 14.5 Central Islip 13 - Fire News photos

by Bill D’Alessandro

Page 74, Fire News, October 2017

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Hagerman Hosts TERC Tournament UNLIMITED PIT (all tools, hydraulics included): 1st Montauk 2nd West Babylon 3rd Middle Island LIMITED PIT (hand tools only): 1st Montauk 2nd Middle Island 3rd Hagerman OVERALL 1st Montauk (also took Best Team Medic and Best Team IC) 2nd Middle Island 3rd Hagerman - Fire News photos by Thomas J. Lambui

FireNews.com

Fire News, October 2017, Page 75

New York State Drill August 19, 2017

1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th

Central Islip N. Lindenhurst W. Hempstead Islip W. Sayville

19 18 14.5 13 9

- Fire News photos by Bill D’Alessandro

Page 76, Fire News, October 2017

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NYS Motorized Championship Drill August 19, 2017 Place 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th

Team Central Islip North Lindenhurst West Hempstead Islip West Sayville

Points 19 18 14.5 13 9

- Fire News photos by Michael Heller and Kim Versheck

FireNews.com

Fire News, October 2017, Page 77

West Sayville Junior Invitational July 23, 2017

Place 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th

Team Hagerman Jrs. Central Islip Jrs. Bay Shore Jrs. West Sayville Jrs. East Islip Jrs.

Points 34 31 28 17 15

- Fire News photos by Kim Versheck

Page 78, Fire News, October 2017

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6th Battalion Old Fashioned Drill Place 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th

August 26, 2017 Team North Merrick North Bellmore Bellmore Merrick Seaford

Points 32.5 29 21 14 13

- Fire News photos by Kim Versheck

FireNews.com

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Wading River Street Dedicated to Lateulere On August 30, 2017, the Wading River Fire Department and representatives from the Town of Riverhead joined together with the family of Thomas Lateulere to dedicate 20th Street in Wading River in his honor.

The ceremony was held at the intersection of 20th Street and Hulse Landing Road.

“This dedication marks the gratitude that we have for Thomas Lateulere’s service and volunteerism to the Wading River community,” said Supervisor Sean M. Walter.

“Thomas Lateulere Street will be a continual reminder of his commitment and devotion to the residents of Wading River and the County of Suffolk.” Lateulere was a Wading River Fire District Commissioner and an exChief who died on June 27, 2016, after an illness. Tom was also the chief of training and education for Suffolk County Emergency Medical Services.

- Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam

FireNews.com

Fire News, October 2017, Page 81

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Uniden Bearcats ScotchliteTM

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www.FFENY.com

Page 82, Fire News, October 2017

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Smithtown FFs Honored at the 145th Annual FASNY State Convention The Fireman’s Association of the State of New York presented their 2017 Valor Awards to five Smithtown firefighters who were involved in a house fire rescue in the early morning hours of August 24, 2016.

Second Assistant Chief Patrick Diecidue, Third Assistant Chief Timothy Duckham, exChief John Hansen, ex-Captain Engine Company 4 Jen O'Brien, and Firefighter Joe LaRocco of Rescue Company 9 were all cited for their bravery in the face of adverse conditions. Also awarded was Smithtown Fire District EMT Tom Kriklava.

The Chief in command on that early morning was past-Chief Timothy Murphy. The Chief’s report exemplified the reason FASNY presented their highest honor to the five firefighters.

First on scene were Captain Tim Duckham and district first responder EMT-CC Tom Kriklava, who made entry without benefit of SCBA. They encountered a thick, choking smoke that filled the upper level of the house.

After partially searching the second floor, Duckham and Kriklava exited the house and donned SCBAs and re-entered. Chief Diecidue who was not wearing an SCBA entered to search and size up the scene.

Duckham found a three-year-old female unconscious, removed the victim down the hallway and was met by Chief Diecidue.

Together they removed the victim to the front lawn. Kriklava determined that the victim was

in respiratory arrest and provided rescue breathing via mouth-to-mouth. Upon the arrival of an ambulance, Kriklava provided ALS care during the transport to the hospital.

Chief Diecidue and Captain Duckham reentered and continued searching in worsening conditions.

The first arriving units consisting of Engine 4-2-4, Engine 4-2-5, and Rescue 4-2-9 arrived on scene and were tasked with search and firefighting duties. At this time, there were still two victims unaccounted for. While searching, ex-Captain Jennifer O’Brien from Engine 4 found both an adult female victim and a threemonth-old male unconscious and entangled in

the bathroom. Coincidentally, this is the same bathroom O’Brien delivered the baby victim three months earlier. Shouting for assistance, O’Brien was joined by Firefighter Joseph LaRocco from Rescue 9 and Captain/ex-Chief John Hansen from Engine 5.

All three victims were removed in respiratory/cardiac arrest. The mother, after several months of hospitalization succumbed to her injuries on December 15, 2016. The two children were revived in route to Stony Brook University Hospital and made full recoveries.

The Smithtown Fire Department takes deep pride in honoring our finest.

- Fire News photo by Jeff Bressler, SFD PIO

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Now, This is What We Mean by Hard Core!

James R. Thomas is a gentleman in the Syosset Fire Department Knight Raiders who has been a member of FASNY and has run on the Tournament Team for seven decades, from 1949 to 2007. He is also a life member of the New York State Volunteer Firemen’s Parade and Drill Team.

In his seven decades competing he ran in almost every position on the Drill Team, but mostly at nozzle. For many years, his team’s 1939 Buick truck could not keep up with the more modern trucks and to make up time, he used to jump off at the hydrant and beat the truck running up to the nozzle line. At the age of 71, Thomas was still jumping off the truck.

Thomas, otherwise known as ‘Mootsie’ is still active in the department. On April 1, 2017, he was 88-years old and he still makes over 1,000 calls and drills each year.

- Fire News photo courtesy of a friend of ex-Captain and Honorary Chief James ‘Mootsie’ Thomas

Ellinger Honored for Service

The chiefs and members of Bethpage Ladder Company #3 honored Honorary Deputy Chief William ‘Coach’ Ellinger for his 65 years of dedicated service to the Bethpage Fire Department and the Bethpage Community.

- Fire News photo by Kevin Imm

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Uniondale Dedicates New Mini-Pumper On August 6, 2017, the Uniondale Fire Department Manor Company 3 hosted a dedication for its new 755, a Pierce MiniPumper built on an International chassis.

-Fire News photos by OverTheEdgePhotography.com and K2MPhotography.com

Page 86, Fire News, October 2017

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Huntington Chiefs Council Scholarships

The Town of Huntington Fire Chiefs Council recently presented their annual Scholarship Awards to students affiliated with the town fire and rescue services. Council President John McDonough presented the scholarships to Alyssa Feld of Dix Hills, Alexandria Strievski of East Northport, Alexandria Boronow of Eaton's Neck, Ryan Tschirhart of Eaton's Neck, Douglas Knoph of Centerport, Molly Cross of Northport, and Travis Flanagan of East Northport.

Alyssa is the daughter of Dix Hills ex-Chief and Commissioner Larry Feld and is attending SUNY Farmingdale State College. Alexandria is the daughter of East Northport EMT Barbara Strievski and is attending St. Joseph’s College. Alexandria is the daughter of Eaton’s Neck ex-Chief Paul Boronow and is attending the University of Connecticut. Ryan is the son of Eaton’s Neck firefighter Bill Tschirhart and is attending SUNY University at Albany. Douglas is the son of Centerport firefighter John Knoph and is attending SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry. Molly is the daughter of Northport Firefighter Robert Cross and

is attending Suffolk Community College. Travis is the son of East Northport Assistant Chief Dan Flanagan and is attending Utica College.

In addition, Vincent Pastore of Huntington Station received a Scholarship from the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs. The award was presented by Director Anthony LaFerrera to his parents, Huntington Manor ex-Chief and Commissioner Mike Pastore and his wife Michele.

The seven $500 scholarships are awarded annually in the memory of Dix Hills Chief Terry Farrell and Huntington Manor Chief Peter Nelson, both FDNY Rescue Company 4 firefighters who were killed in the line of duty on 9/11; Huntington Manor Fire Police Captain and Chaplain Richard Holst and Dix Hills ex-Captain Walter Hessling who both died in the line of duty in 2009; Huntington Manor ex-Chief and Commissioner Joe Lynch, Town of Huntington Supervisor’s assistant Billie Pastore, and Eaton’s Neck Assistant Chief Kevin Brandon.

- Fire News story and photos by Steve Silverman

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Fire News, October 2017, Page 87

Hauppauge FD Honors Young Hero

The Hauppauge Fire Department recently recognized a special man for his quick actions in saving the family home from fire. Daniel Diana, 22, who is an Honorary Member of Hauppauge Engine Company 3, comes down to the firehouse for company events, in-house training and meetings. He loves everything about firefighting and being a part of the Hauppauge FD in any capacity possible. While Daniel’s grandparents were over for a visit, his mom was cooking bacon on a BBQ grille on the back porch. The grease from the bacon caught fire and started a large fire, which was impinging on a canopy over the porch. Daniel witnessed the flames and sprang into action. Daniel told his mom to close the lid on the BBQ and turn off the gas. The fire was still burning intensely as Daniel

raced to the shed and grabbed two dry chemical extinguishers and put out the fire. Daniel remained calm and knew what needed to be done with the knowledge he gained over the past four years at the firehouse. Daniel has Autism and struggles with everyday life, but during this event he stepped up and took brave actions to protect his family and home. The department held a ceremony in his honor where Daniel was presented with a Certificate of Merit from Chief Robert Wind as his proud parents, Scott and Dina Diana, and other family members, friends and firefighters attended.

- Fire News story by Steve Silverman, photos courtesy Hauppauge FD

Page 88, Fire News, October 2017

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Riders of Fire Donate to Burn Center The Riders of Fire MC recently made a donation to the Stony Brook Hospital Burn Center.

- Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone

Westhampton Beach Ladies Auxiliary Dinner On June 14, 2017, the Westhampton Beach Ladies Auxiliary hosted a dinner with the Suffolk County Ladies Auxiliary and their guest, Peter Cincotta. A good time was had by all.

- Fire News photo by Cody Hoyle

East Farmingdale Dedicates New Pumper East Farmingdale Fire Company dedicated its new class A pumper to ex-Chief William ‘Bill’ Daly in May 2017. (Left, from left) Chief Matt Joseph, Scott Daly, Assistant Chiefs Joseph Iuzzini, Duane Welliver and Scott Lewis. (Right, from left) Captain Chris Wright, Scott Daly and Lieutenant Tim Curley.

-Fire News photos by John Welter

Dix Hills Firefighters Honored for Service Three members of the Dix Hills Fire Department were recently recognized for their outstanding service at the department’s 70th Annual Installation Dinner.

Suffolk Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services Deputy Commissioner John Jordan presented Proclamations on behalf of County Executive Steve Bellone to exChiefs Steve Kamvakis; Phil Tepe, Jr.; and Robert Fling. Chiefs Kamvakis and Tepe were both recognized for their 50 years of dedicated service. Chief Fling was honored for serving as Chief of Department from 2015-2016. (From left): Suffolk FRES Deputy Commissioner John Jordan, exChief Steve Kamvakis, ex-Chief and Commissioner Phil Tepe, Huntington Councilwoman Susan Berland, ex-Chief Robert Fling, State Assemblyman Chad Lupinacci, and Huntington Councilwoman Tracey Edwards.

- Fire News photo by Steve Silverman

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Selden Hosts Suffolk Parade

The annual Suffolk County parade was held in Selden on July 8, 2017. The parade was hosted by the Selden Fire Department in honor of the department’s 85th anniversary. Six members of the Smithtown Fire Department were recognized as the Suffolk County’s Firefighters of the Year for acts of heroism and bravery.

Leading Smithtown was Chief Michael Landrigan.

- Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber

Girl Scouts Host Wantagh

On August 1, 2017, several members from Wantagh’s Engine 3 visited the Girls Scouts at their day camp at Wantagh Park.

Firefighters gave the girls information about fire safety as well as a live demonstration. The girls then had an opportunity to climb aboard Engine 3, wear firefighting gear, and shoot water from a hoseline. The members from Engine 3 enjoyed spending time with the Girl Scouts and teaching them about fire safety, and the girls seemed to really enjoy themselves, as well.

- Fire News photos and story provided by Lt. Phil Schaaf, WFD E3

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Fire News, October 2017, Page 91

2nd Battalion Parade The annual 2nd Battalion parade was hosted by the Island Park Fire Department and was held on July 15, 2017. There were nine departments partaking.

- Fire News photos by Steve Takacs

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Rockville Centre Honored for Ped Save Three Tally-Ho Members Honored for 125 Years of Service Lynbrook Mayor William Hendrick, right, and NYS Assemblyman Brian Curran, recently attended Lynbrook’s Tally-Ho Engine Company 3’s testimonial dinner where three members of the fire company were honored for a combined total volunteer service of 125 years. William Goff, center front, and Steve Grogan, middle rear, were both honored for 50 years of service, while Anthony DeCarlo, left, was honored for 25 years of service. The dinner was held at the Ocean Club in Atlantic Beach.

- Fire News photo by Brian Grogan

The Rockville Centre Fire Department has been awarded a Unit Citation by the Nassau County Fire Commission for a March 31, 2016, rescue of a pedestrian who had been hit by a vehicle and pinned underneath. Once the vehicle was lifted and secured, firefighters crawled under it and disentangled the woman from the undercarriage and remove her safely. (Left to right): Fourth Battalion Chairman and RVCFD ex-Chief John Henig, Second Assistant Chief Eric Burel, First Assistant Chief Brian Cook, Chief Robert Seaman, Fire Commission Chairman Denis Collins, Nassau County Presiding Officer Norma Gonsalves, Assistant Chief Fire Marshal John Priest, and Nassau County Fire Chaplain Kevin Smith.

- Fire News photo by Brian Grogan

Valley Stream Rescue Donates to Wounded Warriors E. Rockaway Firefighters Honored for Save Members of the East Rockaway Fire Department were recently honored by the Nassau County Fire Commission for saving a man at a house fire on April 12, 2016. Firefighter Andrew Ochtera and ex-Chief Edward Reicherter of Ladder 403, without the protection of a hoseline, made their way to the second floor of the house after being told that the occupant was unaccounted for. In the heavy smoke and fire the firefighters found the man unconscious and not breathing and carried him out to medical personnel from the department’s ambulance who revived the man en route to the hospital. (Left to right): Fire Medic Judy Schatzel, Fire Medic Erica Webber, Captain Patricia Seifert, Firefighter Andrew Ochtera, exChief Edward Reicherter, and then-Chief Gene Torborg who was in charge of operations.

- Fire News photo by Brian Grogan

The members of Rescue 1 Company of the Valley Stream Fire Department presented a check for over $3600 to the Nassau County Firefighters Operation Wounded Warrior. The Rescue 1 firefighters stood at the entrance to the Green Acres Shopping Mall last holiday season to accept contributions from motorists for NCFFOWW. In the above photo, Rescue 1 Captain T. Calhoun, fifth from right, and Lieutenant Brian Ferrucci, fourth from right, present the check to Joe O’Grady, NCFF-OWW Chairman, third from left.

Also present for the presentation are, (left to right), NCFF-OWW Vice-Chairman Bill Graham, NCFF-OWW Secretary Terrence Powderly, Rescue’s Ron Garafalo, Rescue’s Lou Adduci, NCFFOWW Vice-Chairman Steve Grogan, and Rescue’s Ray Rizzatti.

People wishing to make a tax deductible donation to help our wounded warriors can send a check to NCFF-OWW, PO Box 295, Garden City, NY 11530.

- Fire News photo by Brian Grogan

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Antique Fire Apparatus Photoshoot On June 11, 2017, various fire departments and individual owners of antique fire apparatus gathered together at Heckscher State Park to allow photographers from all across the country to photograph their rare and unique apparatus. Over 40 apparatus were brought to this year’s event.

- Fire News photos by OverTheEdgePhotography.com

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Collecting for Harvey Victims Over the 2017 Labor Day weekend the Brookhaven Fire Department along with their Ladies Auxiliary collected donations from a very generous community for the victims of Hurricane Harvey.

- Fire News photos by JoAnn Stephani

Page 98, Fire News, October 2017

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MOTLEY CREWS OF THE MONTH

Fourth Battalion officers (from left): Treasurer Mark Murray, RVCFD; Chairman John Hennig, RVCFD; Vice-Chairman, Bobby Klose, East Rockaway; and Secretary John O’Reilly, Lynbrook.

- Fire News photo by Steve Grogan

The Farmingville Fire Department took Best Appearing Overall in Medford’s 95th Anniversary Parade.

- Fire News photo by Amanda Coffey

Members of the Sound Beach Fire Department’s first-due crew with Engine 9 after its first fire on July 21, 2017.

-Fire News photo by Marc Francois

Garden City firefighters stood by during the conclusion of Welcome Back Week activities at Adelphi University on August 27, 2017. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

Garden City Park Fire Department attended the 37th Indian Day Parade In Midtown Manhattan on August 20 2017, with Captain J. Thomas and members of Engine Co 3.

- Fire News photo by Capt. Jensen G. Thomas, GCPFD

Members of the Holtsville Fire Department.

- Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez

Members of Valley Stream’s Rescue 1 Company recently presented a check for over $3600 to the officers of Nassau County Firefighters Operation Wounded Warrior.

- Fire News photo by Brian Grogan

Members of the Nassau County Firefighters Emerald Society marched in the Rockville Center Saint Patrick’s Day Parade.

- Fire News photo by Tim Edwards

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MOTLEY CREWS OF THE MONTH

The Food Network filmed a pilot episode at the Melville Fire Department’s headquarters. (Left to right): Chief David Kaplan, Ashley Foxen of Reality Bites Cupcakes, and Chief Jason Bernfeld.

- Fire News photo by Steve Silverman

Members of the Greenlawn Fire Department providing great food at their fair and Labor Day weekend event.

- Fire News photo by Steve Silverman

Greenlawn FD members working hard to provide food at their fair and Labor Day weekend event.

-Fire News photo by Steve Silverman

Farmingville Firefighters from Truck Company 1 at training on July 18, 2017.

- Fire News photo by Amanda Coffey

Valley Stream Juniors.

- Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone

Atlantic Beach Rescue welcomed new members to its flood/surf rescue team.

- Fire News photo by Jonathan Kohan

Great Neck Alert firefighters visited Pete Meade and presented him with a FASNY 50-year certificate.

- Fire News photo by Mike Greene

The crew of Smithtown Fire Department Rescue 4-2-9 after operating at an MVA on Morewood Drive on August 8, 2017.

- Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber

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VecchioBuchanan

Congratulations to Centereach Fire Department members 2nd Assistant Chief Ben Vecchio and EMT Jen Buchanan on their marriage on September 2, 2017.

Wishing you both a lifetime of happiness!

- Fire News photo by Matty Gehm

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Marinuzzi Donates to Pendergast Fund

On August 27, 2017, nine-year-old Luke Marinuzzi of Massapequa Park opened a lemonade stand by his home with the idea of giving the money earned to charity. After talking with members of the Massapequa Fire Department, Luke decided to give his lemonade money to the Heather Pendergast Fund, which helps Long Island firefighters and EMS personnel who have children suffering with life threatening illness. To thank Luke for his thoughtfulness, he was invited to Massapequa Park’s house, where he and his parents were greeted by Tom and Penny Pendergast, parents of Heather, and members of the department, and given a tour of the equipment and the facility.

- Fire News photo by Ed Tuffy

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Fire News, October 2017, Page 103

Remember Your First Fire?

These two Elmont probationary firefighters responded with their respective companies to a house fire on Keller Street in Valley Stream on the afternoon of August 22, 2017.

- Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

Pi Kappa Alpha First Fireman’s Challenge On April 8, 2017, the brothers of Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity at Hofstra University hosted the first annual Fireman’s Challenge fundraiser. Various sororities competed against each other in a number of events. The East Williston Fire Department and the Mineola Volunteer Ambulance Corps were both on scene to assist.

- Fire News photo by Thomas Devaney

Page 104, Fire News, October 2017

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Up Close & Personal

Levittown 2nd Deputy Chief Al Williams at a recent job. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm

Massapequa Fire Department members ready for Fourth of July Parade.

- Fire News photo by Ed Tuffy

Firefighter Skip Gehm of Centereach Fire Department Company 3.

- Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez

Ex-Chief and 50-year member Italo Vacchio from Westbury Fire Department Hose Company 2 after chauffeuring first-due Engine 969 to a house fire on Maplewood Drive in New Cassel on July 26, 2017.

- Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber

Congratulations to Farmingville Junior Bandits (left to right): Nadia, Sean, Ryan, Sal, Danny and James as they completed their last and final season as Junior Bandits!

- Fire News photo

by Amanda Coffey

Setauket 1st Assistant Chief Paul Rodier working a recent call.

- Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone

Page 106, Fire News, October 2017

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MULTI AGENCY ACADEMIC COOPERATIVE (MAAC) FOUNDATION Hosts a Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening Ceremony of Northwest Indiana’s First Emergency Services Training Academy

The Multi Agency Academic Cooperative (MAAC) Foundation hosted an official ribbon cutting and grand opening ceremony on Saturday, September 16, 2017, at the site of the new Emergency Services Training Academy located at 4203 Montdale Park Drive in Valparaiso, Indiana.

The MAAC Emergency Services Training Campus has been designed to support thousands of fire, law enforcement and EMS personnel throughout Lake, Porter, La Porte, Jasper and Newton Counties. The MAAC campus includes a 40-foot search and rescue tower, two-story live burn building, flashover unit, two-story residential training structure, ventilation and forcible entry training structure, rescue technique drafting pond, vehicle extrication pad, ventilation and forcible entry structure, fire extinguisher and propane teaching areas, indoor training space and classrooms.

“We have developed a state-of-the-art campus that will serve as a leading provider of safety, emergency preparedness, and response training throughout our region. The MAAC is an incredible asset for northwest Indiana’s deserving public safety community,” Celina Weatherwax, President, McMillan Family Foundation said.

During the ceremony, Stewart G. McMillan, Founder, MAAC was appointed the organization’s first Chief.

Two short videos were shown during the ceremony and can be found by going to You Tube and searching for “The MAAC” or at www.youtube.com/watch?v=QCvl5ft_GA4&t=3s.

Special guests included Mr. Bryan Langley, Executive Director of the Indiana Department of Homeland Security; Jim Greeson, State Fire Marshal; State Senator Ed Charbonneau; and State Representative Ed Soliday.

FDNY CAPT. CERIELLO TO PRESENT KEYNOTE ADDRESS AT FIREHOUSE EXPO IN NASHVILLE Firehouse Expo is proud to announce this year’s Keynote undertone persisting that attempts to undermine these advancements.

Presenter is Capt. John Ceriello with the FDNY. Ceriello’s presenta- What is that force? That force is us, the inherently flawed human being. tion, “Pulling Back the Curtain: A Cautionary “When we speak of bravery, it can come in Tale,” will kick-off Firehouse Expo 2017. The many forms. Do you have the courage to look Opening Ceremony and Keynote Presentation behind the curtain, to question what you have will begin at 0815, Thursday, October 19, 2017, been taught, to embrace the new-found knowlin the Davidson Ballroom at the Music City edge and to become the best firefighter you can Center. be?”

Ceriello says, “This is an exciting time to be in Captain Ceriello is a 29-year veteran of the the fire service, because there has never been as FDNY, with 14 of those years in Special many resources at our disposal to better Operations Command. He has been an integral understand the profession of firefighting. part in the FDNY and NIST Wind-Impacted Fires Manufacturers are investing in products that will Project that introduced stairwell pressurization, change our abilities and engineers are delving wind-control devices and high-rise nozzles into into the essence of what fire is and how it reacts the field. Ceriello is on the UL Firefighter Safety to the world around us. There is a great deal of positive energy as departments retool their tactics, yet there is an Research advisory panel for a number of projects.

TERRY FARRELL FUND HOSTS JIM BEAN-SPONSORED PARTY AT EXPO The Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund will hold a Jim Beam Sponsored Firehouse Expo Party on Thursday, October 19, 2017, from 2000 to 2300 at the Tin Roof Bar, 316 Broadway, Nashville, TN. The Tin Roof Bar, along with Jim Beam, will host a variety of drink specials, Beam promotions, and various other Terry Fund prizes and give-a-ways. The Terry Fund party is the only firefighter-themed party for Firehouse Expo 2017.

Please join us for a night of fun and brotherhood with an organization that is specifically for firefighters and first responders.

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Fire News, October 2017, Page 107

Port Jeff Fourth of July Parade

The annual Port Jefferson Fourth of July parade was held on July 4, 2017. Various fire departments throughout Suffolk, along with local civic and community groups, participated.

- Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber

Page 108, Fire News, October 2017

Honoring the Fallen

On August 25, 2017, firefighters and police lined the route to Calverton National Cemetery for a funeral for Army Sergeant Roshain Euvince Brooks, who was killed in action in Iraq and died of wounds sustained while engaged in combat operations. He was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 319th Airborne Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Brooks, who also served in Afghanistan, was from Brooklyn.

- Fire News photo by Tom Lambui

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Commemorating a Centennial of Service

Veterans of the 42nd U.S. Infantry Division returned to Garden City on August 12, 2017, to commemorate their Centennial Celebration. Military personnel along with village officials and a throng of residents, family and friends gathered at the recently restored “Rainbow Monument� on Clinton Road and St. James Street South. Garden City and Mineola firefighters were in attendance and provide an arch for the American flag.

- Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

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Fire News, October 2017, Page 109

Obituary

Cutchogue’s Commissioner Andrew B. McCaffery

The Cutchogue Fire Department mourns the loss of 24-year member, ex-Chief and Commissioner Andrew B. McCaffery. His funeral was held on August 17, 2017.

McCaffery also served as a Suffolk County Deputy Fire Coordinator and was the current president of the Suffolk County Parade and Drill Team Captain’s Association. Andrew was an active and proud participant with the CFD Panthers Drill team, and was an ex-Captain of the team.

During the funeral processions, the trucks stopped underneath the drill team arch on his team’s B-Truck with fellow Cutchogue Panther Drill Team members and fellow members of other teams from the New York State Volunteer Firemen’s Parade and Drill Team Captain’s Association.

Drew was an instrumental part of the drill team during some of the Panthers’ most successful years and was the team’s hydrant man during the 1996 season when the Panthers returned to the track as a motorized team. That same year they were crowned the Suffolk County total points champions for the efficiency contest.

The Cutchogue Fire Department, the Suffolk County fire service, the Drill Team Association and the Cutchogue community will miss Commissioner and ex-Chief Andrew McCaffery.

May he rest in peace as he guides us from above.

- Fire News photos by Michael Heller

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Obituary

Ronkonkoma’s Frederick H. Stahl

The Ronkonkoma Fire Department announced that Frederick H. Stahl has answered his last alarm. Fred passed on June 23, 2017, and was waked at Moloney’s Funeral Home in Lake Ronkonkoma. He was buried on June 28, 2017, with firematic services at the Hawkins Avenue Annex Cemetery in Lake Ronkonkoma.

Fred was a 48-year member of the Ronkonkoma Fire Department. He served as Chief from 1983-1985. Fred was a Commissioner of the Lake Ronkonkoma Fire District from 19852005 and 2007-2011.

Fred was a licensed funeral director for 52 years and once owned Bayport Funeral Home. He was also an insurance agent for Hometown Insurance of Bohemia specializing on the Length of Service Award Program (LOSAP).

Fred is survived by his loving wife Judy, son Kevin (Nora), daughter Kim (Tina) and four grandchildren Jack, Owen, Emma and Abbie. He is the brother of Joan Wrede (Richard) and the late Robert and Anita Stahl. Fred was a partner in the family business, TRIO Restaurant at the Holbrook Country Club and TRIO Restaurant in Medford.

Fred will surely be missed by all who knew him. God bless Fred.

- Fire News photos courtesy of the Ronkonkoma FD

Page 112, Fire News, October 2017

Obituary

Melville’s Ex-Chief Fred R. Harrison The Melville Fire Department mourned the loss of ex-Chief and Past Commissioner Fred R. Harrison, 88, who answered his last alarm on July 21, 2017.

Over the past 58 years, Harrison served the Melville Fire Department as a Firefighter, Chief and Commissioner. Harrison has a long history with the fire service dating back to 1947 when he joined the Setauket Fire Department, following in the boot prints of his father Fredrick Harrison. In 1959, Harrison joined the Melville Fire Department, serving as a Hose Company 1 officer and moving up the ranks as Assistant Chief. He was elected Chief of the Department and served in that position from 1972-1973.

Chief Harrison was a progressive thinker and recognized the importance of increasing the level of emergency medical care provided to the residents of the community. Under his leadership, Melville soon became the first Suffolk County fire department to place an Advanced Life Support unit into operation. Harrison was also instrumental in bringing the “Jaws of Life” rescue tool to Melville in 1973, becoming the first Department in Suffolk County equipped with this life-saving device.

Harrison was the former Assistant Director of the Physical Plant at Farmingdale State College. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1950 and was later transferred to the Occupation Force in Germany, where he served in the Army Corps of Engineers until his discharge in 1952. Upon returning to Long Island, Harrison was hired by Country Gardens as their head foreman. During his 15 years with the company, he supervised many large projects in the metropolitan area including the 1964 World’s Fair, landscaping the Long Island State Parkway System and building of the Dix Hills Golf Course.

Harrison was elected to the Board of Fire Commissioners in 1975 and served for 20 years. He was an advocate of increasing the members’ training and providing the department with the most up-to-date equipment. While serving as Board Chairman, he proudly swore in his son James as Chief of the Department in 1994. Fred Harrison will be remembered for his dedication and commitment to the Melville Fire Department.

Harrison was the devoted husband of the late Maryann Harrison. He is survived by his loving wife Carolyn, and children Catherine Moore (Raymond), James (Debra), Laurie Slade (Steven), and stepsons Matthew, Brian (Marisa), and Doug (Tricia) LoPalo. He was also the caring grandfather and great-grandfather to many.

- Fire News story and photo by Steve Silverman

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Obituary

Honorary Chief Don Schluter Honorary Chief Schluter joined the Rockville Center Fire Department Woodlands Engine Company 4 in November 1969. Don served in numerous positions and committees within the department including canteen, nominating, delegate to the board of instruction, Assistant Chief Chauffeur, Chief Chauffeur and long-time member of the Woodlands Drill Team.

Don was an active member of the Nassau County Fire Riders partaking in many charitable motorcycle rides to assist those in need.

In 1975, after severing as recording secretary for two years, Don was elected 2nd Lieutenant, in 1977, first Lieutenant and, in 1979, Captain, serving in that position until 1981. From 1983 through 2017 Don was the Financial Secretary. From 1990 through 2012 Don served on the company's Board of Directors and from 2012 through 2017, he represented Woodlands company on the Department Council as a Warden.

Over 47 years as an active member of Woodland’s Engine Company 4, Don was consistently at the top of percentage in calls made.

- Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber

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Fire News, October 2017, Page 115

NYPD Sgt. Tuozzolo’s Family Honored by Greenlawn FD

The family of NYPD Sergeant Paul Tuozzolo of Greenlawn, who was killed in the line of duty last November, were honored as the Grand Marshals at the Greenlawn Fire Department annual parade on August 31, 2017. The officer’s wife, Lisa Tuozzolo and sons Joseph, four, and Austin, five, led the parade with the boys riding in a 1961 Cadillac convertible driven by Greenlawn Firefighter Joe

Tavernese who owns the classic car. (From left): NYPD Officer Rich Wecera, First Assistant Chief Joe Costanza, Chief Mike Bellis, Lisa Tuozzolo and sons Joseph and Austin, Second Assistant Chief Angelo Santomauro, Third Assistant Chief Pete Miller, and NYPD Lieut. Manny Kwo. - Fire News photo by Steve Silverman

Page 116, Fire News, October 2017

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Obituary

Setauket’s Ex-Chief James Duckham

It is with deep regret that the Setauket Fire Department announced the passing of 53-year member ex-Chief James Duckham on August 16, 2017. He was 85.

Duckham was also a former member of Oyster Bay Fire Company #1. He was a veteran of the Korean and Vietnam Wars.

Beloved husband of the late Doris. He is survived by his family: brother Wiliam, sons Jimmy and Brian; daughters-in-law Robin and Sue; and grandchildren Nicole, Jimmy, Joey, Mike, Matt and Caitlin. He was interred at Calverton National Cemetery.

- Fire News photos by Robert O’Rourk

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Fire News, October 2017, Page 117

Obituary

Terryville’s Ex-Captain John Brett, Sr.

On August 26, 2017, the Terryville Fire Department laid to rest Lifetime and Charter Member, ex-Captain John Brett, Sr. John served on the TFD’s original committee to start an ambulance corps in the department. He served as an Assistant Chief in 1965, and helped design the department’s original rescue truck.

He was the beloved husband of Joan. Loving father of Laura; Maureen; Lisa; John, Jr.; Kevin; Daniel; and Lee. Cherished grandfather of 21 and great grandfather of 10.

Donations in his memory may be made to the Long Island State Veterans Home,+ 100 Patriot Road, Stony Brook, NY 11790 May John rest in peace as he guides us from the floor above.

- Fire News photos

by Dennis Whittam

Page 120, Fire News, October 2017

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