VOLUME XLIV, NO. 3
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Since 1973 NOVEMBER 2016
Full story on page 29. - Fire News photo by Dennis Whittam
Hagerman FD Hosts TERC Tournament See story on page 64
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Fire News, November 2016, Page 3
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In this issue... Quick Knockdown in Selden Fire marshals and arson investigators respond to a body shop blaze. See story page 8
Getaway Bus ... Bus? ... Burns in Valley Stream A minibus used in a robbery getaway burns in Valley Stream and extends to a tractor-trailer. See story page 19
6 Families Displaced in N. Amityville.. An hour-long fight at an apartment complex fire ends with six families displaced. See story page 26
Train Derailment in New Hyde Park Garden City and New Hyde Park departments respond to a train/work truck collision. See story page 36
FASNY’s McConville Honored A testimonial dinner was held in Selden to honor retiring FASNY President Robert McConville. See page 72-73
Obituaries Montauk’s Tuthill Selden’s Schubert Dix Hills’ Byrne Rocky Point’s Stringer
See pages 74-78
A Service for Long Island Firefighters and EMS Heroes Founded 1973
146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713 FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher TIM EDWARDS, Executive Editor DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor GARY P. JOYCE, Asst. Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production/Sales LYNN SEDLER, Art Director CLIFF CHIESA, Production Manager Advertising Sales: BARBARA CONNOLLY, EVELYN ALOISIO Graphic Artist: GREG JONES, JEB LADOUCEUR, Publisher Emeritus CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: Vinnie Ammirati, Tim Asbell, Bill Bennett, Chris Brenner, Jeff Bressler, Kirk Candan, Wayne Carrington, Amanda Coffey, Ed Coppa, Bill D'Alessandro, Mike DesCalso, Jim Dunn, Larry Fox, Lee Genser, Myron Goldstein, Bryan Gosik, Brian Grogan, Steve Grogan, Mike Guarino, Daniel Gunther, Michael Gunther, Stephanie Handshaw, Jeff Havlik, Jack Healy, Branden Heller, Michael Heller, Christine Heeren, Robert Holley, Cody Hoyle, Kevin Imm, John Ippolito, Kate Kuntz, Joe Lapietra, Richard Lewin, Bryan Lopez, Harry Loud, Kurt Ludwig, Brad Maier, John Mancino, Paul Mazza, Terry McCarrick, Lou Minutoli, Ron Monteleone, Jim Mooney, Ilene Morris, Michael Murphy, Charles A. Murphy, Mike Oppedisano, John Neely, Phil Orlando, Robert O'Rourk, Francis "Sid" Parkan, Kevin Parkan, Tom Pesce, Kevin Peterson, Jackson Pokress, Jerry Presta, Myles Quinn, Jerry Rudolph, Dave Rubin, Jim, Rugen, AJ Ryan, Steve Schaefer, Drew Silverman, Steve Silverman, Joe Sperber, Rich Stark, JoAnn Stephani, Andrew Tetreault, Brian Thomas, Ed Tuffy, Joe Virgilio, Dennis Whittam, Cameron Wilken, Michael Wiwczar, John Wladyka, Jr. COLUMNISTS: Jeff Bailes, Paul Hashagen, Bruce Johnson, John Salka, Billy Goldfeder, Danny Peluso, Bradley Pinksy, Tom Rinelli COPYRIGHT 2016, THE FIRE NEWS LLC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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Letters to the Editor, byline articles, and columns represent the opinions of the writers and photographers and are not necessarily the views of the Fire News. We reserve the right to edit all of the above. We are not responsible for errors in advertisements beyond the cost of advertising space. Copy submitted is subject to editing for space requirements. The placing of an advertisement in this publication does not constitute endorsement. Contents are copyrighted. Editorial and advertising copy cannot be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Fire News is published monthly by Fire News LLC, with corporate offices at 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713.
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
Learning from Our Elders Before I get into my editorial, the staff at Fire News would like to offer our condolences to the family and to the brothers and sisters in the FDNY who mourn the loss of Deputy Chief Michael J. Fahy. Like the thousands who attended the funeral for this hero, and in the true tradition of the fire service, we will keep his family in our thoughts and prayers. There is some comfort in knowing that Chief Fahy’s death saved lives one week later, when the Paterson Fire Department responded to a similar call. I am sure Paterson Chief Michael Postorino had the FDNY and Chief Fahy in mind as he took command of a similar emergency. He most definitely saved the lives of his responders in the way that he handled his call. Well done Chief! It wasn’t this fatal call that motivated me to write about ‘Learning from Our Elders.’ Recently, I attended the New Jersey Firemen’s Conference in Wildwood (NJ). Whenever I go to a conference, I meet people who read my editorials and offer suggestions for future ideas that affect the fire service and our responders. While in Wildwood, I met a retired FDNY Deputy Chief. He made me aware of an idea that he implements
to educate the young responders who are still ‘green’ but have the enthusiasm to train and to safely handle calls. Over 25 years ago, when I joined my department, there was an ex-captain who would always ask how the call we had just worked went. For instance, if it was a brush fire I returned from, he would ask questions that made me think. I never knew for sure what he was getting out of us until one day, my company responded to a major brush fire that almost killed me. If it wasn’t for the experience and knowledge of the captain on my truck, the outcome of the call could have been very different. When I came back to the firehouse, I knew what the ‘old-timer’ had been getting at with his questions. From that day on, I always listened intently to the senior members of my department. Sadly, it took a close call to make me realize this. My conversation with the retired deputy in Wildwood started with my disappointment with many of the young firefighters, who in reality are a lot like I once was. A little bit of experience doesn’t make you a seasoned firefighter. Let’s face it, although calls may be similar in nature, there is always that one call that doesn’t follow
the norm and can take the lives of firefighters. Sharing experiences is what helps make us aware of what may happen and helps keep us safe. If you like to read, find the 1979, second edition of the FDNY’s, WNYF. There is a critique of a fire known as the ‘Flushing Flue’ that almost claimed the lives of two very seasoned officers. I encourage you to find the article and read it. To our seasoned firefighters: take the advice of retired FDNY Deputy Chief Jay Fischler and when you are sitting around the firehouse, engage the people who are our future in conversation. Ask tough questions and give guidance through your experiences. To all; be safe! …..Dennis
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Hempstead Apartment Fire Residents of a Hempstead apartment house had to scurry to safety on September 27, 2016, after a fire broke out in a first floor apartment on Martin Luther King Drive. Hempstead firefighters arrived to flames showing from two windows of a ground floor apartment. There were no serious injuries reported. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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M-LFD Hits Car Fire
On September 7, 2016, Manhasset-Lakeville Fire Department confirmed a fully involved car fire at the main entrance of the hosCompany 2 was dispatched to Community Drive, North Shore pital. Engine 8725 responded and quickly extinguished the fire. - Fire News photos by Lee Genser University Hospital, for a reported car fire. Upon the arrival of Chief of Department Kiess and Deputy Chief Mazurkiewicz, they
Westbury Commercial Fire
The Westbury Fire Department was dispatched for a report of smoke on September 9, 2016. First Assistant Chief Gass arrived and found smoke coming from Rufis Plaza Grocery on Maple Avenue. Engine 965 arrived and stretched two lines with one going into operation. The crews from Ladder 962, and Engines 967 and 969
made entry into the store and a roll-up door on the exposure two side and checked the building for extension. The fire was quickly extinguished and brought under control and contained to the one store. Chief of Department Bartunek was in charge of the scene. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
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Quick Knockdown in Selden
On October 1, 2016, the Selden Fire Department was activated for a reported commercial structure fire at Rick’s Auto Body shop on Middle Country Road. Upon arrival, commanding units encountered heavy smoke showing from the structure. Mutual aid was requested from Centereach, Coram, Farmingville and Terryville. Multiple attack lines were put into operation and crews made a quick knock down of the fire. Command requested a fire marshal and arson squad to the scene for an investigation. - Fire News photos by David Rubin and Bryan Lopez
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Freeport Condo Fire
At least one firefighter was injured and dozens of residents were second floor. Multiple fire companies were on the scene along with forced into the street after a fire broke out at a Freeport condo com- county police and EMS personnel. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com plex early on September 24, 2016. Freeport fire units were called to the condo on Miller Avenue and arrived to an apartment fire on the
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Nesconset Mulch Fire
On September 26, 2016, the Nesconset Fire Department was activat- the fire. Nissequogue was requested for a tanker due to the lack of ed for a mulch fire. Upon arrival, Assistant Chief AJ Anderson a water source near the fire. - Fire News photo by Matthew O’Reilly found an active fire within a large pile of mulch. Two payloaders were used to open and spread the pile for firefighters to extinguish
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Wantagh House Fire
On October 3, 2016, the Wantagh Fire Department responded to Ring Lane in Levittown, for a house fire. Second Assistant Chief Ken Kelly arrived to fire coming out the front kitchen window. Engine 2, Ladder 2 and Engine 7, arrived and stretched two lines, attacking fire on the first floor. Engine 2 went upstairs to attack fire that had spread to the second floor. While searching a rear bedroom, Firefighter Brian Fink found a dog and, assisted by Firefighter Brian Gilmor, removed the dog, which was taken to an animal hospital for treatment. There were approximately 50 firefighters from Wantagh, assisted by units from North Bellmore, Levittown, Seaford and East Meadow as well as NCPD. In addition, Bethpage and Bellmore stood by at Wantagh. - Fire News photos by Wantagh FD/PIO
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Boat Fire Called Suspicious
The Wantagh Fire Department was dispatched for an unknown type fire near the canal to the rear of a Shore Road Home in Seaford Harbor on September 28, 2016. First Assistant Chief Gross arrived and found a 35-foot boat fully involved in the canal threatening other boats and houses. Second Assistant Chief Kelly arrived shortly after. Engine 693 arrived, followed by Engine 695 and Ladder 6911, and put one handline and a foam line into operation.
Additional units from all Wantagh houses also responded. It took about 25 minutes to extinguish the fire, which caused some damage to the vacant home the boat was behind. Freeport was requested for a boat to the scene, while Seaford and Bellmore stood by. The fire was deemed suspicious and was under investigation by the Nassau County Fire Marshal Office. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
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Levittown House Fire
A Levittown family and their pets were able to escape to safety on coming from the first floor of the home. Several adjoining commuthe morning of October 3, 2016, after a fire broke out in the kitchen nities responded to assist in extinguishing the blaze. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com of their home on Ring Lane. Wantagh firefighters arrived to flames
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Point Lookout-Lido Responds
Fatality at Selden Fire
The Point Lookout-Lido Fire Department responded to the report of a house fire on October 1, 2016. Heavy fire conditions on the side of the home were evident on arrival. Handlines were quickly stretched and mutual aid was requested to assist. No serious injuries wwere reported. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
The Selden Fire Department responded to Ferndale Avenue for a house fire. Units arrived to smoke coming from a single-story house and a possible occupant inside. One of the first arriving chiefs made his way into the home, located a female and dragged her out of the fire. She was pronounced at the scene. The fire was brought under control in about 30 minutes. Mutual aid came from Coram and Farmingville. Suffolk Police Arson and Homicide Squads were investigating. - Fire News photo by AJ Ryan
Dog Saved at Hempstead Apt. Fire Firefighter tends to a family dog removed from an apartment house fire on Maple Avenue in Rockville Centre on October 1, 2016. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Another Melville Car Fire
The Melville Fire Department received reports of a fully involved responded with 25 fire/rescue personnel and quickly knocked down car fire on the North Service Road and Bagatelle Road on the flames, under the command of Captain Billy Schmitt. - Fire News story by Steve Silverman, September 18, 2016. The driver of the car pulled over to the side of photo by Melville FD the road and escaped uninjured. Three engines and two ambulances
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Smithtown House Fire
The Smithtown Fire Department was toned out for a residential structure fire on September 17, 2016, on Eckernkamp Drive. Responding units were met with a fully involved two-story house. The three residents in the home and their dogs were able to safely exit. Smoke detector alarms woke up the family. Responding were Smithtown Chiefs Murphy, Landrigan, Fitzpatrick and Diecidue. Mutual aid was provided by Kings Park, St. James, Hauppauge and Commack Volunteer Ambulance. - Fire News photos by Jeff Bressler and Joseph C. Sperber
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Getaway Bus Burns
On September 30, 2016, Nassau County FireCom alerted the Valley Stream Fire Department to reports of a truck fire in the parking lot of Toys ‘R Us on Sunrise Highway. Responding units were met with an intense fire involving two vehicles, a minibus and an 18-wheeler. The fire started in the unoccupied bus and extended to the tractor trailer parked next to it. Two men were sleeping in the trailer — which was carrying a full load of liquor — woke and made their escape. Several explosions were heard as the Valley Stream Fire Department attacked the blaze, allowing the alcohol to burn off as long as possible. The Nassau County Fire Marshals, along with Nassau County Police detectives are investigating after they found evidence that fire may not have been accidental. Nassau County Police reported that the bus was a getaway vehicle for a gunman who stole money and cigarettes from the Hewlett 7Eleven on nearby Mill Road. - Fire News photos by Larry Fox
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Hooks, Hose & Heavy Rescue Maine. Highlights of the day included By Tom Rinelli, www.unyquean authentic Squad 51 (of the TV show firetrucks.com Emergency), two motorized steamers, Shiny New Rides multiple hand drawn hose reels and With many apparatus received ladder carts. Over 60 firematic photogduring the early 1990s reaching the raphers from across the Northeast end of their service life, a consider(some from as far away as Ohio and able number of new rigs are being Michigan) representing many major built for Long Island departments. publications and websites phoRecent deliveries include a Ferrara tographed the apparatus, which were Cinder 1500/500 engine for posed for individual photos. Roosevelt and a 77-foot tandem axle, As the organizer/coordinator of this rear mount aerial quint for event, this author wishes to extend sinBridgehampton (their first aerial). cere thanks to all the departments and Syosset has received a Spartan ERV private owners who attended with 100-foot mid-mount platform painted in their striking maroon color Jamesport Fire Department High Water Evac/Brush 6-1-7 apparatus, the many departments that provided logistical resources, the scheme. In addition, Massapequa has 1997 Stewart-Stephenson/2016 Firematic 280 gallon. Coram Fire Department for their received three Pierce Velocity tremendous support and our sponsors, engines, while Shelter Island took delivery of a Ford F550/Rosenbauer walk- completion of Ford F550/BRAT units (fire including Fire News, who once again acted as around light rescue with a crew cab built into the police and mini rescue respectively) while our media sponsor for this event. Manorville will get a stumpjumper constructed rescue box. Tom Rinelli is the webmaster/photographer for Apparatus currently on order include a Ford on a reconditioned 2.5-ton ex-GI chassis. unyquefiretrucks.com, a popular website showF550/Spartan ERV walk-around light rescue for casing unique apparatus from across the Sag Harbor, a Spartan ERV tandem axle rear An Epic Event in Firematic History On Sunday, June 12, 2016, a historical event Northeast (and beyond). In addition, he is the mount 100-foot aerial for South Farmingdale as well as a Rosenbauer 88-foot mid-mount ladder in Long Island fire service history took place at event coordinator for the Long Island Antique Heckscher State Park in Great River. Following Fire Apparatus Photo Shoot. A 30-year veteran tower for Holtsville. Pierce is completing rigs for multiple depart- nine months of intense planning, the Long volunteer of the Long Island Fire & EMS brothments including West Babylon (Velocity Island Antique Fire Apparatus Photo Shoot erhood, Tom is also known to many in the fire engine), Hagerman (Velocity rescue engine), gathered together 110 antique fire apparatus for service through his ‘real job’as a fire equipment Mattituck (Velocity walk-around heavy rescue), a group photo. The apparatus came from depart- distributor (Fire Rescue Outfitters). He can be as well as Enforcer series pumpers for Blue ments and private owners from Long Island as reached for comments, updates and invitations well as NYS vollie companies, New Jersey, to photograph apparatus at firescueguy Point, Center Moriches and Farmingville. Hampton Bays and Mt. Sinai are awaiting Connecticut, and as far away as Maryland and @me.com.
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Blue Point Car Fire
On September 10, 2016, the Blue Point Fire Department was activated for a vehicle fire on Rolling Hills Drive. With heavy smoke visible from a distance, units arrived to discover a fully involved minivan with extension to a neighboring SUV, as well as the exposure one side of the garage. Under the command of Assistant Chiefs Salvo and Schmidt, first-due Engine 5-2-2 laid a five-inch supply line and immediately placed two handlines into operation knocking
down the main body of fire. Ladder 5-2-3, arriving second due, assisted with extinguishment and confirmed negative extension to the home. Additional units on scene included BPFD Fire Police unit 5-2-4, Bayport FD Chief 3-14-31 and Engine 3-14-1, multiple SCPD units as well as Patchogue Ambulance Company’s First Responder and Ambulance 5-35-19. - Fire News photo by Tom Rinelli
Lynbrook Basement Fire
The Lynbrook Fire Department battled a working fire in the base- companies responded to assist at the scene. East Rockaway providment of a private dwelling on Farnum Street on September 11, 2016. ed the FAST unit. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com Engine companies quickly knocked down the blaze and mutual aid
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Melville Battles Multiple-Car Fire
The Melville Fire Department was dispatched to a car fire at a residence on Bagatelle Road near the North Service Road on September 14, 2016. Firefighters arrived to find two fully involved cars in the driveway of the home. The fire appeared to have started in a car that was connected to a battery charger. The blaze spread to a second car that was parked nearby, destroying both vehicles. A third car sustained minor damage. About 20 firefighters and rescue personnel responded with two engines, two ambulances and a first responder unit, under the command of Assistant Chiefs Paul Mahler and David Kaplan. There were no injuries reported and the Suffolk County Police Arson Squad was investigating. - Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
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3 Injured in Freeport House Fire
On September 12, 2016, at least three people were transported to area hospitals after an early morning house fire in Freeport. Firefighters responded to the Roosevelt Avenue home and found a raging fire in the rear of the structure. It took units about 30 minutes to bring the blaze under control. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Uniondale Brush Fire
On September 12, 2016, Uniondale firefighters along with multiple mutual aid companies from throughout Nassau County battled a large area of brush on fire at the area known as the Hempstead Plains in Uniondale. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Bad Luck House Burns
The North Amityville Fire Company was called to a reported house fire on Avon Drive early on September 22, 2016. Second Assistant Chief Benloss arrived to fire showing from the basement window on the exposure four side of the home. Chief of Department Harley arrived and took command of the scene. Third Assistant Chief Rollins arrived and, along with Chief Benloss, handled the fire attack. Engine 1-7-1 was followed in by Heavy Rescue 1-7-5. The engine crew stretched two lines as the crew from 1-7-5 vented and searched. The fire took about 30 minutes to extinguish with the house suffering substantial damage. Copiague responded with an RIT and an engine. The house was the scene of a fatal shooting in August and had been reported to be empty since. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Suffolk County Police Arson Squad. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
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6 Families Displaced in N. Amityville Blaze
On September 19, 2016, the North Amityville Fire Company was alerted for a fire at the Amityville Square Apartments on Great Neck Road. First arriving units encountered heavy fire showing from a unit on the second floor, which was extending into a neighboring unit and into the cockloft. Chief of Department Harley requested multiple mutual aid to the scene as his units arrived. Engine 1-7-1 put multiple lines in operation while the crews from Amityville, Farmingdale, East Farmingdale, Copiague, and the Wyandanch-Wheatley Heights rehab unit, arrived. The fire was brought under control in about an hour with two units destroyed and several others damaged, displacing six families. The Red Cross was on scene to help the displaced families. There were no reported injuries and the cause of the fire was under investigation. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
Fast Work in Hempstead The Hempstead Fire Department responded to a house fire on the morning of September 19, 2016. Flames could be seen from a first floor window on arrival, but the fire was knocked down by the first handline stretched. No injuries were reported. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Mulch Burns in Coram On October 5, 2016, the Coram Fire Department was called out to bring a mulch fire under control on Mill Road. Upon arrival, flames were visible in one of the sections of the mulch manufacturing plant. Numerous tankers were called to provide a water shuttle operation in order to feed Coram’s engine. Coram Engine 2 fed Coram Truck 1, so the flames could be knocked down. The fire was brought under control without incident. -Fire News photo by Dennis Whittam
Islip Terrace Car Fire The Islip Terrace Fire Department responded to a vehicle fire on September 20, 2016. Engine 3-6-4 arrived and extinguished the fire. - Fire News photo by Ryan Wiedmann
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Cover Story
EMS ACROSS THE ISLAND
Tech Rescue at Stony Brook Univ. On October 7, 2016, the Stony Brook University Fire Marshals were called to the co-generation plant for a worker down. Upon arrival, it was determined that a high-angle rescue operation would be needed to remove the worker, who landed on a platform several stories up, after a fall from a fixed ladder leading to the roof. A request was made for the Stony Brook Fire Department, along with the Brookhaven Town Technical Rescue Task Force to respond to the scene for assistance with the operation. Through a combined effort between the Stony Brook University Fire Marshals, Stony Brook Ambulance, the Stony Brook Fire Department, along with the Brookhaven Town Technical Rescue Team (BTTRT), the worker was removed from the facility and transported to Stony Brook University Medical Center for treatment. -Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam and BTTRT PIO
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MVA with Pin in Copiague The Copiague Fire Department was called to an MVA with reported entrapment at the intersection of Verdi Avenue and Great Neck Road on October 8, 2016. First arriving units encountered a two-vehicle accident involving an SUV and a sedan, with the passenger of the sedan trapped. Engines 1-35, 1-3-9, Heavy Rescue 1-3-3 Ambulances 1-3-1 and 1-3-27, Utility 1-3-6 and First Responder 1-3-80 responded. The crew from 1-3-3 removed the passenger door of the sedan and extricated that person in about 10 minutes. The crew from Engine 1-3-5 had a precautionary line stretched and the crew from 1-3-9 secured the SUV. The passenger in the sedan and two people in the SUV were injured and were taken to Good Samaritan Hospital by 1-3-1, 1-3-27 and North Amityville Ambulance 1-7-22. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
MVA, Pin, Chase, Arrest On October 9, 2016, the West Islip Fire Department activated for an MVA with overturn and entrapment on the eastbound Southern State Parkway at Bay Shore Road. Two SUVs collided with one overturning and pinning a passenger. who was extricated in about 15 minutes and taken to Southside Hospital. One driver fled the scene and was chased by an offduty police officer. The driver pulled a knife on the officer, who fired two shots as the suspect ran off. He was caught on Sunrise Highway several hours later. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
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North Lindenhurst MVA The North Lindenhurst Fire Department was alerted for a two-car accident at North Wellwood Avenue and Straight Path on August 26, 2016. A sedan collided with a pickup causing the pickup to roll multiple times and land on its passenger side. Heavy Rescue 1-11-5, Ambulance 111-6, and Copiague Ambulance 1-3-2 responded under command of Chief of Department Newman. Both drivers were injured and taken to Good Samaritan Hospital with non-life threatening injuries. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Hempstead Hit-andRun The Hempstead Fire Department responded to an SUV that struck a second vehicle on Terrace Avenue on August 30, 2016. The impact caused the SUV to overturn onto its side and the driver fled the scene. One person in the vehicle that was struck suffered minor injuries and was transported to an area hospital by fire department ambulance. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Nice Work at Deer Park MVA On August 24, 2016, Deer Park Fire Department responded to an MVA overturn with pin. The driver of a pickup truck who was pinned was experiencing difficulty breathing. Upon arrival, one of the EMS personnel climbed into the vehicle and administered oxygen while firefighters extricated him. His injuries were not life threatening and he was transported to Good Samaritan Hospital. - Fire News photo by BTFirePhoto.com
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Fatality at Valley Stream MVA
A Ronkonkoma man was killed when the vehicle he was driving in Valley Stream just before midnight on September 1, 2016, went over a guardrail and crashed into a power-line stanchion over a drainage creek along Peninsula Boulevard. Valley Stream firefighters, under the command of Chief James Ervolino, were called to the scene when police officers found no occupants in the totally wrecked vehi-
cle. Firefighters went into the creek, which was about three-feet deep, and searched the high weeds and water. The man’s body was recovered and he was pronounced by Nassau County Police paramedics. Firefighters conducted an extensive search in the area for other possible victims, but none were found. - Fire News photo by Steve Grogan
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We Think You Left Something ‌ The New York State Police, and Commack and Kings Park Fire Departments responded to an accident on northbound Sunken Meadow State between Jericho Turnpike and Pulaski Road in Commack on August 26, 2016. A car had lost control, left the roadway, and crashed into trees before coming to a stop in the center median. The driver was treated and transported to Stony Brook University Hospital by Kings Park Fire Department Ambulance. The accident caused northbound traffic to be diverted due to the car’s engine lying in the middle of the roadway. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
Roslyn Heights 1-Car The driver of a sedan lost control of his vehicle on Mineola Avenue near Villa Place in Roslyn Heights around on August 31, 2016. The car left the roadway and smashed into the front of a nearby office building. Roslyn fire and EMS crews were on the scene. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Perhaps, the Brake Next Time? On August 2, 2016, the Centereach Fire Department was activated for an MVA on Selden Boulevard and Caroline Avenue. When units arrived they found that an elderly driver lost control of his vehicle, jumped the curb through one fence, then through another, stopping in the backyard by hitting the house. Centereach Fire Department transported the driver to an area hospital for evaluation. - Fire News photo by David Rubin
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Classic Car Goes for a Swim
On July 28, 2016, the Islip Fire Department was activated for a reported vehicle into the water off Main Street. Commanding units arrived to find two people self extricated and a vehicle completely submerged. Both occupants were transported to a nearby medical facility with minor injuries. Suffolk County Police divers assisted with the recovery of the vehicle. The vehicle recovered was a classic 1974 Jensen convertible. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
To our EMS System, Hospital Colleagues, and Fire Service and Law Enforcement Partners; The families of Tom Lateulere and Raegin Kellermann take this opportunity to express our sincere gratitude for the outpouring of love and respect shown to Tom both during his battle with cancer and at his wake and funeral services. As many know, while Tom did all he could to avoid the spotlight, the tremendous show of support from all our colleagues and friends during this time was indeed a great comfort to his family. We would like to also give special thanks to the commissioners, district staff, chiefs, officers and members of the Wading River Fire District and Department for welcoming us into their firehouse, and their attention to the smallest details in creating a lasting tribute to Tom in true brotherhood of the service.
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Train Derailment in New Hyde Park
The Garden City and New Hyde Park Fire Departments were alerted on October 8, 2016, for an LIRR accident and derailment near Merrilon Avenue. First arriving units found an eastbound passenger train had collided with a westbound LIRR work truck. The collision knocked part of the truck off the tracks and derailed the second and third cars of the train injuring almost three dozen people, several seriously. Mutual aid requests went out across Nassau County for multiple ambulances and other apparatus. Nearly twodozen fire departments, Nassau County Haz-Mat, Nassau County Police, Nassau County Police Ambulance Bureau and Emergency Service Unit, MTA Police and LIRR officials responded to the scene. The injured were taken off the train via ladders and Stoke’s baskets and transported to local hospitals. Units were on scene for several hours. The cause of the accident is under investigation. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza and Edmund Coppa
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Fire in the Wire, Inc. Div Of Firefighters Equipment of N.Y., Inc
(516) 564-1069 Fax (516) 564-4687
400 Hempstead Turnpike West Hempstead, New York 11552
www.FFENY.com
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Farmingville Pin On September 6, 2016, the Farmingville Fire Department was toned out for an MVA on North Ocean Avenue. The first chief arrived to find a driver who had hit a tractor-trailer and was pinned in the vehicle. The crew from Rescue 8 extricated the patient who was transported by Farmingville Ambulance to Stony Brook University Hospital for serious injuries. - Fire News photo by Amanda Coffey
Melville MVA The Melville Fire Department and Suffolk Police responded to an MVA on Bagatelle Road and the South Service Road on September 4, 2016. The driver of the car suffered injuries and was transported to Plainview Hospital by the Melville Rescue Squad. Units were under the command of Company Two Captain Max Lituchy. - Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
Copiague MVA The Copiague Fire Department responded to a two-vehicle accident at 35th Street and Dixon Avenue on September 10, 2016. An SUV and a pickup collided, trapping the driver of the pickup. Engines 1-3-5, 1-3-9 Heavy Rescue 1-3-3 and Ambulance 1-3-27 responded under the command of Chief of Department Campion. The crew from 1-3-3 removed the driver side door of the pickup and extricated the driver in about 10 minute, and transported the driver to Good Samaritan Hospital with non-life threatening injuries. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
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Floral Park 3-Car MVA The Floral Park Fire Department was on the scene of a three-vehicle accident on Covert Avenue near Cisney Avenue on September 21, 2016. One driver was injured and transported to an area hospital by fire department ambulance. Nassau County EMS also responded to the incident. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Tow Truck vs. Pole In the early morning of September 30, 2016, the Ronkonkoma Fire Department was activated for an MVA with reported wires down on Hawkins Avenue. Upon arrival, Chief Kevin Murray found an overturned tow truck that took down a utility pole and wires. The driver of the vehicle was self extricated and refused medical attention. Command requested PSE&G to the scene. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
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All in a Day’s and Night’s Work
Just when they thought summer was over and alarm volume would decrease, members of the Atlantic Beach Rescue responded to five alarms over the course of a12-hour period that included mutual aid to both the Point Lookout/Lido Fire Departments and the Long Beach Fire Departments with an ambulance during confirmed house fires. While at Long Beach, Ambulance 369 was dispatched to a confirmed opiate overdose, reviving the patient en route to South Nassau Hospital-Oceanside. The ambulance was soon alerted to provide a transport for the widow of a recently deceased member
who had broken her shoulder. Finally Ambulance 369 and Rescue 366 were alerted to respond to an MVA on Park Street in the Village of Atlantic Beach with wires down and entrapment. Working together with Long Beach Fire Department and Nassau County Police, the patient was extricated, stabilized and transported to a trauma center in critical condition. - Fire News photos and story submitted by Jonathan Kohan, PIO Atlantic Beach Rescue
Medford 5-Car MVA
The Medford Fire Department responded to an MVA at the inter- Farmingville and North Patchogue. All patients were transported to section of North Ocean Avenue and Cedar Avenue on October 5, local hospitals with non-life threatening injuries. - Fire News photos by Cameron Wilken 2016. Upon arrival they encountered a five-car accident with multiple patients. Additional ambulances were called from Holtsville,
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Fire News, November 2016, Page 45
Nassau County 7th Battalion Parade
On September 10, 2016, the West Hempstead Fire Department hosted the 7th Battalion Parade. The Grand Marshal was Jonathan Poirot, a member who recently spent five weeks in the hospital. Get well soon, J P. - Fire News photos by Bill D’Alessandro
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Nassau County Juniors at MDA Fair The Electrical Welfare Club of the IBEW held their 38th Annual Muscular Dystrophy Association of Nassau, Suffolk and Queens Family Day at Belmont Racetrack. They had a nice day of fun and games provided by the organization. The County Junior Officers Joined Elmont and East Norwich Juniors and took the kids for fire truck rides and also helped the kids spray water. (Right): NCJFA Officer Michael Scanlon, Sergeant-at-Arms, assisted one of the kids with a handline. - Fire News story by Jerry Presta
Remembering 9/11 at Bethpage These young men, all of whom were toddlers on September 11, 2001, placed wreaths on the 9/11 monument in front of Bethpage Fire Department headquarters. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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Point Lookout 9/11 Residents and visitors wrote the names of victims and messages on a 35-foot mural commemorating the nearly 500 Long Islanders who died in the September 11 attacks. Point Lookout Town Park is located on Lido Boulevard at the end of Loop Parkway. - Fire News photo by Edmund Coppa
Town of Islip 9/11 Memorial Service -Fire News photo by Ron Pacchiana
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East Northport Firefighters Race to the Finish
Making their way down Main Street in the final mile of the Great Cow Harbor Run in Northport are East Northport firefighters Dylan James and Jamie Conroy. The firefighters ran the entire 6.2 mile race in full turnout gear with breathing apparatus. They finished 4,094th and 4,095th respectively in 1:39:19, in the 10Kilometer race on September 17, 2016. - Photo courtesy of The Observer News
Hauppauge Birthdays
The Hauppauge Fire Department held an 80th birthday party for members (left to right) Christopher Hirsch, Paul Baran, Jack Mcloughlin and Robert Munro. - Fire News photo by Greg Gottlieb
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Dix Hills Custom Car Show
The Dix Hills Fire Department Company 2 recently hosted their Brett Tepe and Lieutenant Howard Kaplan thanked all the car ownthird annual Custom Car and Motorcycle Show at fire headquar- ers and visitors for their participation in the fundraiser. - Fire News photos by Steve Silverman ters. The year’s show brought over 50 cars ranging from classic antiques and hot rods, to muscle cars and motorcycles. Captain
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Town of Islip Drill August 26, 2016 Rank 1st 2nd 3rd 3rd 4th
Team West Sayville Central Islip Bay Shore Islip East Islip
Points 52 39 35 35 17
-Fire News photos by Kim Versheck
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Up Close & Personal The smiles say it all! -Fire News photo by Dennis Whittam
Lynbrook CoC Car Show
Bluepoint ex-Chief Joe Sauerwein and Hagerman ex-Chief Louis Valentino get together for a photo at a recent call. These two dedicated individuals have over 50 years of service and are still going strong. - Fire News photo provided
Hempstead Town Councilman Anthony D’Esposito attended the Lynbrook Chamber of Commerce Car Show, the proceeds of which support the Nassau County Firefighters Operation Wounded Warriors. (Left to right): ex-Chief of Lynbrook Fire Department Tony Badolato, Firefighter Jack Callahan, past-President of the Ladies Auxiliary Mary Cash, Nassau County Firefighters Operation Wounded Warriors Vice-Chairman Steve Grogan, Councilman D’Esposito and ex-Chief of Lynbrook Fire Department John O’Reilly. - Fire News photo supplied Holtsville Ladies Auxiliary member Nancy Lopiccolo, Firefighter Rich Davies and Fire Police Lieutenant Nick Deangelis at the FASNY Firemen’s home in Hudson, NY. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
South Farmingdale Fire Police working at an incident scene. - Fire News photo by Ed Tuffy
Valley Stream Assistant Chief Installed First Assistant Chief of the Valley Stream Fire Department Jason C. Croak was recently installed by his father, ex-Chief William Croak, Sr., with his sister, brother and nieces by his side. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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NYS Parade Hosted by Main-Transit The New York State Volunteer Firemen’s Parade and Drill Team Captains Association State Championship Parade hosted by Main-Transit on August 21 Best Appearing Fire Department 15 to 25 Members: First Place - West Islip Second Place - Point Pleasant Third Place - Central Islip Best Appearing Fire Department 26 to 35 Members: First Place - Selden Second Place - Brentwood Third Place - West Sayville Best Appearing Fire Department 36 Members and Over: First Place - Freeport Second Place - Main-Transit Best Appearing Junior Fire Department Class A: First Place - Central Islip Best Appearing Junior Fire Department Class B: First Place - Selden Second Place - Main-Transit Best Appearing Ladies Auxiliary: First Place - Lindenhurst Second Place - Central Islip Third Place - Saint James Best Appearing Drill Team: First Place - Baldwin Tomcats Second Place - Copiague Yellowbirds Third Place - Merrick Buckeyes Best Appearing Fire Department Musical Unit: First Place - The West Sayville Golden Eagles Marching for West Sayville Best Appearing Continental Musical Unit: First Place - The West Islip Brewers Second Place - The Brentwood Wanderers Third Place - The Babylon Fire Department Band Best Appearing Commercial Musical Unit: First Place - The Savannah Cellar Savers Marching for Henrietta Second Place - The Deer Park Fire Department Band Marching for Selden -Fire News photos by Kim Versheck
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NYS Motorized Drill at Main-Transit August 20, 2016 Rank 1st 2nd 3rd 3rd 4th
Team Points West Sayville 17 West Hempstead 14 North Lindenhurst 12 Islip 12 Lindenhurst 11 -Fire News photos by Kim Versheck
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NYS Old Fashioned State Drill at Bellmore August 5, 2016 Rank 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th
Team Freeport (Dead End Kids) Bellmore Rocky Point Freeport (Nighthawks) Miller Place
Points 28.5 22 19 14 12
-Fire News photos by Kim Versheck
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North Bellmore Drill On August 13, 2016, the North Bellmore Fire Department held its annual drill with some 100 teams from Nassau and Suffolk. At the end of the day five teams stood tall. First place went to the Port Washington Road Runners; second to the West Hempstead Westerners; third to the Islip Wolves; fourth to the Bay Shore Redskins and the North Bellmore Rinky Dinks. - Fire News photo by Bill D’Alessandro
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North Sea Wins Brush Truck Comp
On September 24, 2016, the Patchogue Fire Department hosted its annual “King Of The Woods” brush truck competition at Firemen’s Park in Ridge. Teams came together and raced the offroad course for best times, putting their training to work. Crews had to work together to compete for the title. Congratulations to the North Sea Fire Department for winning this year’s competition. - Fire News photos by Bryan Lopez
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Fire News, November 2016, Page 59
Firehouse Kitchen With Firehouse Kitchen Host Ray Cooney
While driving home from a rough weekend at Mohegan Sun, I received a phone call from one of the producers of The Dr. Oz Show. They were a fan of Firehouse Kitchen and wanted to know if I would come on The Dr. Oz Show and make a “garlicky dish.” “A garlicky dish?” I asked. The producer said, “Oh wait, let me explain. We are doing a show about a young man who is an internet sensation. He is going to show some of the remedies for garlic breath.” The producer continued, “Can you bring in your wife and two other fireman you had on your show with you?” I asked why, and he said they had a funny skit set up for us. Fair enough. Hey, I’m firefighter Ray! I’m up for anything. Garlicky dish, garlicky dish — what am I to make? Then, I remembered a show I did in Somerset, New Jersey, with a young firefighter who made this unbelievable garlic bread. He called it Heart Attack Bread. I didn’t think there would be any remedy for garlic breath from eating Heart Attack Bread. The day of the taping arrived. The show sent a car to pick us up. Firefighter Ray was moving up in the world! I asked, Mike Munoz, a regular on my show from the Wantagh Fire Department, and Billy Zoller of the West Sayville Fire Department, to join me on the show. They were to be the testers. Even though they didn’t have any idea
what their job would be, they were up for the chance to be on national television. We arrived at the studio and were ushered into the green room, then whisked away into hair and makeup and then a three-hour wait to tape the show, about which I still had no clue to what our purpose would be. Finally, we were given the details. Each fireman and myself are to eat the bread. Next, each of us would be given one of three different natural garlic breath remedies: apple, hot green tea, and a lime with a shot of tequila. Being the Irishman I am, they gave me the tequila remedy. After taking our remedy, Dr. Oz and my wife had to smell our breath to see who was the least garlicky. The lime with tequila won! Now mind you, the tequila had nothing to do with the remedy! They informed me after that they thought it would be fun to add the tequila. Me? I thought it would be fun to pour myself another shot. The segment lasted about six minutes, and it was a great experience to see how things operate on a show of this caliber. Dr. Oz was a gentleman. His warmth and personality shown through the moment we met. He truly made us feel welcome. I would like to thank Dr. Oz and his entire staff for the wonderful experience we had. To find out more about Firehouse Kitchen or how to become a sponsor, visit firehousekitchenshow.com or friend us on Facebook; 631-514-5859.
HEART ATTACK BREAD
One loaf of Italian Bread (preferably peasant bread) Two sticks of butter Two heads of garlic (finely chopped) Salt, garlic powder, Parmesan cheese Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Slice garlic bread down the center into two halves. Melt the butter in saucepan and lightly brown the chopped garlic in the melted butter. Pour over the halves of the Italian bread. Season to taste with salt, pepper and Parmesan Cheese. Bake until golden brown on outside. Remove, slice and enjoy!
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Remembering Lincoln Quappe
Lincoln Quappe, who died in the WTC attacks, was a lifelong resident of Brookhaven Hamlet and lived in Sayville. He was a 16-year member of the FDNY and was with Rescue 2, when the attacks occurred. When he joined the FDNY he was assigned to Ladder 123, before moving to Rescue 2. Quappe was also a Life Member of the Brookhaven Fire Department with over 20 years of service, following in the footstps of his father, Charles Quappe, who was a member of the Brookhaven Fire Department from 19711981. Lincoln joined the Brookhaven Fire Department on June 2, 1981, and was an exceptional firefighter, receiving many awards including: the BHFD Rookie of the Year in 1982, the BHFD Fireman of the Year in 1984 and the Suffolk County Fireman of the Year in 1985. During his time in the BHFD, Lincoln was very involved in training and was named Training Officer in 1994, and helped to produce some of the best volunteer FFs many of whom are still active today. Lincoln was also the department chef, and driver of the Rescue Truck out of Headquarters 5-3-3 for many years. His experience, knowledge, and calm attitude were great assets at any emergency scene. Any chief who saw Lincoln walking up to the scene knew things were going to go smoothly. The Brookhaven Fire Department renamed its Rookie of the Year award the Lincoln Quappe Rookie of the Year Award, to honor Lincoln.
Bellport 9/11 Ceremony
Brookhaven 9/11 Ceremony
-Fire News photo by JoAnn Stephanie
The Brookhaven Fire Department, under the leadership of Chief Tom Connors, 1st Assistant Chief Giuseppe Loiacono and 2nd Assistant Chief Pete DiPinto, held their 9/11 ceremony to remember the lives lost on September 11, 2001. - Fire News photo by JoAnn Stephanie
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Prep Your Apparatus as You Prep Your Firefighters By Daniel Peluso “All pump piping, valves and valve controls, fire hose connection, caps, chains, and gaskets shall be inspected for security of mounting, structural integrity, deformation, and free from leakage and lubricated as required by the component manufacturer.”— National Fire Protection Association 1911, Standard for the Inspection, Maintenance, Testing and Retirement of In-Service Automotive Fire Apparatus (2012). If I were to read this to the firefighters in my company, I might as well be speaking a different language. Yet, this is how some of our industry standards are written. We must follow them for guidance on basic maintenance to keep our equipment safe. Below is a simple drill that you can do in your station to help your members understand fire pumps and pump panel instrumentation to ensure your apparatus is always ready to go. Flushing Procedure. First, establish a positive water supply and open all discharge valves. Allow water to flow through with your rig in nonpump mode. Backflush for at least five minutes before shutting the hydrant down. Repeat this step with all discharge gates closed halfway. This allows water to flush both sides of the ball valve and remove any debris stuck in the valve seals. After completing this step, close all discharge valves and open all intake caps, which will backflush the lower pump body. This is a quick way of identifying overlooked problems originating from stuck or damaged ball gate valves. As an additional benefit, this procedure completely flushes stones and sand that accumulate in pump bodies. Dry vacuum test. When the pump body has no water, it’s a great opportunity to perform a dry vacuum test to see how well the pump is sealed. A trick of the trade to identify a leaky discharge valve is to remove all discharge caps and place latex gloves over the outlets before pulling a prime. The industry standard is to achieve 22 inches in 10 seconds, and it should not drop below 10 inches in less than five minutes. You can easily identify a drop in pressure when a glove is being pulled into a discharge. Placing the apparatus in pump. Open the tank-to-pump valve (thus filling the pump), discharge the tank water, and refill the tank. This accomplishes two key operations: It removes old stagnant water from the apparatus (manufacturers recommend doing this monthly), and it allows you to check the tank-to-pump valve function. Additionally, this will backflush the seals in the ball gate valve assembly. Cleaning drains. With the pump in gear at idle, open all discharge drains and allow them to flush for two to three minutes. Next, take the pump out of gear and open all intake drains, which will allow the hydrant pressure to backflush the intake drains. Conduct this procedure for two to three minutes. So, in just a short time, you have tested all your discharge and intake valves, the tank-to-pump valve, the vacuum gauge, and the discharge and intake drains for proper operation. You have also tested your pump shift and interlock system without even thinking about it. Additionally, your firefighters have benefited from a hydrant drill. These steps are easy and often overlooked, but I guarantee that the more often you use this simple technique, the fewer problems you will see on the fireground and the more comfortable your firefighters will be around their apparatus at the next working fire.
Daniel Peluso is a 27-year veteran of the volunteer fire service on Long Island, New York. He has more than 30 years of experience as an automotive technician and has serviced fire apparatus for the past 10 years. He holds Emergency Vehicle Technician (EVT Certification Commission), Automotive Service Excellence (National Institute for ASE), and Factory Mutual training certifications. He is the vice president of the Long Island Emergency Vehicle Technician group and has taught fleet maintenance for the past several years.
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4th Annual Axemen Memorial Special Needs Fundraiser The 4th annual Axemen Memorial Run was held on September 17, 2016. The run started in Lido Beach and finished in Rocky Point, Long Island. The Axemen MC raises money for children of FDNY members with special needs. The run is in support of the Kids Connect Program. - Fire News photos by Bill Bennett and Andrew Tetreault
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Suffolk County VEEB Medal Day 2016 On September 25, 2016, the Vocational Education Extension Board of the County of Suffolk held Medal Day at the Riverhead Fire Department to honor the members of the Suffolk County Fire Service who have performed brave deeds above and beyond the normal expectations. Congratulations to all of the medal recipients. Gold Medal - George Berry Sr. , Southold FD Silver Medal - Jack Italiano, Jr., Cold Spring Harbor FD Silver Medal - Kevin Peterson, St. James FD Bronze Medal - Scott Davonski, East Quogue FD Bronze Medal - Norman Stene Beal, Riverhead FD Bronze Medal - Kevin Burgess, Riverhead FD Bronze Medal - Anthnony Chiaramonte, Riverhead FD Bronze Medal - William Renten, Jr., Riverhead FD Suffolk County Fire Academy Instructors of the Year Al Nemecek Award - Deputy Chief Daniel Sicilian Jack Gibson Award - Deputy Chief Michael Bachek Suffolk County Fire Coordinator of the Year Dalrymple Scott, Greenlawn FD
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Canada Cleans Up at TERC Challenge
From September 8-10, 2016, teams from the U.S and Canada gathered to participate in the TERC USA North American Vehicle Rescue Challenge hosted by the Hagerman Fire Department in Patchogue. Five teams from Long Island, a team from Hartland, Wisconsin, and many from Ontario — and as far as Enfield, Nova Scotia — Canada participated. These men and women came to not only compete but to watch and learn from each other. TERC US Chairperson, Carl Fargione described the brother and sisterhood of TERC in a nut shell. “The TERC community is family, it was basically a family reunion. Hard work, dedication, and love is all you need!” The results of the Challenge: Overall 1st- Mississauga (CAN) 2nd- Burlington (CAN) 3rd- Oakville Team 2 (CAN) Limited Pit 1st- Mississauga (CAN) 2nd- Montauk (USA) 3rd- Oakville Team 2 (CAN) Unlimited Pit 1st -Mississauga (CAN) 2nd- Ottawa (CAN) 3rd- Burlington (CAN) - Fire News photos by Carol Greene and JoAnn Stephani
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McDonald’s, Nassau and Suffolk Fire Marshals, Kidde and Ronald McDonald Team Up
Long Island McDonald’s teamed with Nassau and Suffolk county fire centers and fire departments to emphasize the importance of home fire safety. On October 7, Long Island McDonalds, Kidde, Nassau and Suffolk Fire Marshals and Ronald McDonald gathered at the Nassau County Firefighters Museum on Charles Lindberg Boulevard in Garden City, and presented 250 Kidde Worry-Free 10-year sealed lithium battery smoke alarms and 50 carbon monoxide (CO) alarms to the Nassau
and Suffolk County Fire Marshals. The alarms were donated by Kidde, a leading manufacturer of residential fire safety products. “Long Island McDonald’s is thrilled to once again be working with Kidde to highlight the importance of fire safety and we are so thankful for their generosity in donating the smoke and CO alarms to help protect Long Island families,” said Luciana Montuoro, LI McDonald's Marketing and PR Director. To help Long Island families with their fire
safety needs, Kidde is offering a 25-percent discount plus free shipping on smoke and carbon monoxide alarms from October 1 through December 15. Visit LIMcDonalds.com and click on the banner ad on the home page to take advantage of this offer. Long Island McDonald’s will also have a sweepstakes on their web site for the chance to win a smoke detector. Ten lucky winners will be selected. - Fire News photos supplied
Fire Prevention Class in Riverhead Students of Mrs. Walker’s fourth grade class at Aquebogue Elementary School listen to Fire Prevention tips during the Riverhead Fire Departments fire prevention week. - Fire News photos courtesy of Shelley Walker
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MOTLEY CREWS OF THE MONTH
This crew from the Glen Cove Fire Department have been serving as judges at the annual Greenlawn Fire Department Parade for many years. - Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
Deer Park’s EMS crew during a firefighter emergency removal drill held on September 28, 2016. - Fire News photo by BTFirePhoto.com
Firefighters from the Yaphank Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Medford Fire Department and Medford Volunteer Ambulance played a friendly game of softball on September 18, 2016. - Fire News photo by Amanda Coffey
Seen at the Westhampton Beach High School Homecoming Bonfire: Dave Slover, Walter Tracy, Bob Eckles, Joe Gordon, Bobby Votino, Paul Hoyle, Maura DiBenedetto and Subi Chockalingam. - Fire News photo by Cody Hoyle
Ring of Fire Picnic 2016. - Fire News photo by Ron Montelone
The Nassau County Fire Riders. - Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
The French fries at the Greenlawn Fair were a big hit from this lively Freedom Fries crew. - Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
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PROLINER, CODE 3 AND OTHERS HELP A DEPARTMENT IN NEED Beaver Falls Fire Department (BFFD) is a small fire department with a great need. This small town department serves a large area of Western Pennsylvania, but works with a very small budget. It became apparent that the department was in need of an arson investigation unit, but there were no funds available to secure the needed vehicle, equipment and specially trained arson dog. That is until State Farm Insurance donated Patty, and the training to certify her as a fully trained arson dog. Along with Patty, State Farm also donated a 2013 Ford Taurus, which was a recovered stolen vehicle. Since the vehicle needed to be repaired and restored to operable condition, Steve Wisotsky from State Farm Insurance, working in conjunction with Long Island Auto Body Repairmen Association (LIABRA) was tasked with securing a facility to donate the repairs. Scotsman Collision of Mt. Sinai performed the repairs at no cost to Beaver Falls Fire Department. However, the unit was far from ready for service. It still needed to be up-fitted from a standard Ford Taurus to an emergency vehicle. Not having the funds needed for the necessary emergency equipment, Fireman Dave Seidel of Beaver Falls Fire Department planned to fundraise with T-shirt sales, spaghetti dinners and other local fundraisers. Together with State Farm Insurance they raised enough money to install a new dog PROTECTION cage system for Patty to ride safely. The rest of the equipment was put on hold until more money could be raised. Meanwhile, the important work of arson investigation was waiting for Patty and BFFD. The call for help was heard two states away, when BFFD and Steve Wiotsky of State Farm Insurance approached Billy Georgiou, owner of the
Long Island, NY-based emergency rescue vehicle dealership, ProLiner Rescue. Georgiou spec-ed out the vehicle proposal for BFFD and despite the fact that the small town department didn’t yet have the needed funds, Proliner commenced work on the vehicle. Proliner worked with Code 3 to secure the needed emergency light bar, siren system and strobing push bumper system. Proliner also added additional strobes to the package, shelf and taillights. Down the road, after all the necessities were in place, BFFD had hoped to add ghost stripes to the vehicle; Proliner installed these as well. Georgiou also worked with Relay Communications to secure a donation of a fully programmed two-way radio. As the September 16 deadline approached, it became apparent that BFFD was not near reaching the amount of money needed for the up-fitting. Billy told them, “Don’t worry about it, whatever you raise, we will still build the vehicle.” True to his word, the car was completed and the majority of the cost to build it was donated by Proliner. This fully up-fitted 2013 Ford Taurus, along with arson dog Patty, is a proud addition to the BFFD, who along with other townships and local law enforcement investigates arson calls for a large area of Western Pennsylvania. In fact, in the short time Patty has been on the job she has already solved a serial arson case!
REMEMBERING THE 343 LIBERTY ARTWORKS VP DOES STAIR CLIMB Vice President of Liberty Artworks and Maryland Heights Fire Captain Robert Daus, Jr., climbed with his firefighter brothers 110 stories wearing full firefighting gear, SCBA tanks, and equipment (approximately 70 pounds) to honor the fallen 343 firefighters of the 9-11 attack. The charity event was hosted by the Clayton Fire Department and drew firefighters from all over the region. Each member received a lanyard and 8x10 picture of a fallen FDNY firefighter to wear for the duration of the climb. After the climb, each fallen member’s name was read and a memorial bell was tolled in their memory. Biographies of the 343 fallen were posted in a mural so climbers could get to know a little about their firefighter before starting out. Pictured is Robert and his son Jacob.
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LI Day at Firemen’s Home
On September 18, 2016, numerous fire departments from both Suffolk and Nassau counties gathered at the FASNY New York Firemen’s Home and Museum in Hudson, New York, for the 11th Annual Long Island Day. A parade took place and a barbecue followed the celebration. - Fire News photos by Bryan Lopez and JoAnn Stephani
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Having Fun at Hendrickson
On September 23, 2016, Hendrickson Fire Rescue Equipment held an open house. In the photos, Edward and Kenneth Sperber have some fun, along with hundreds of guests who had a great time at the event. -Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
See full coverage of Hendrickson’s Open House in next months edition of Fire News.
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Red Knights 9/11 Run
The Red Knights MC, NY-26, participated in a nationwide ride to honor victims of terrorism in our country. Rob Wrenn, Vice President of the Red Knights along with several members from the Red Knights MC, rode to FDNY Rescue 5 to pick up and transport an American flag to the Coram Fire Department, where it will fly for one week and then ceremoniously be folded and returned to its home in California. The flag has made its way from state to state, as part of “Rolling Glory 2.” The flag’s journey began in California in April and ended up in New York City on September 11. Rolling Glory has truly been an incredible testament to the unifying spirit of this great nation. Thank you to everyone who participated in this flag’s journey to the Coram Fire Department. -Fire News photos by Ron Monteleone
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McConville Honored in Selden
Congratulations to Robert McConville on his retirement as president of the Firemen’s Association of NYS. A testimonial dinner honored Bob and his family on September 17, 2016. We salute Robert McConville on his 48 years of service to the Selden community and for his dedication and commitment to FASNY. Good luck on your future endeavors. -Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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McConville Honored in Selden
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New Hyde Park Dedicates SUV to Matthews
The New Hyde Park Fire Department held a dedication ceremony number of years and they recently purchased a new Medic SUV and on August 11, 2016, honoring Jeff Mathews who was also a Nassau honored Matthews by dedicating the engine to him. - Fire News photos by Lauren Cronemeyer County AMT. He had been a paid medic with New Hyde Park for a
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Fire News, November 2016, Page 75
Obituaries
Montauk’s Ex-Chief Craig Tuthill The Montauk Fire Department is extremely sad to report that Craig Tuthill, ex-Chief of the Montauk Fire Department, passed away on August 17, 2016, at North Shore Hospital, with his family by his side. “Things will never be the same around here without Craig,” said Chief Joe Lenahan about Craig’s 63 years of uninterrupted service to the community. Mr. Tuthill, who was a fixture at the Montauk Fire House, was born on January 20, 1936, and was known to some as “Signal 4” (the call sign for everything’s under control). He was even better known for his calm demeanor. Craig started his career with the Montauk Fire Department on January 27, 1954. He rose through the ranks holding a broad variety of positions, and received many certifications in the fire and emergency service areas. Ex-Chief Tuthill was a member of Engine Company #2 for 30 years, and served as its Captain in 1958 and 1959. He was also a member of Truck Company #5, and, in 2007, he moved to Fire Police Company #6. He was a charter member of the Montauk Ambulance Squad and served as its secretary for several years. Craig was also its House Man for many years, during which time he actually lived at the firehouse. He
became a certified Public Safety Radio Dispatcher, and would dispatch fire and ambulance calls before the days of unified dispatching. Craig also held training certificates including HazMat training, arson/ bomb investigation, heavy rescue, incident command systems, aerial device operations, and marine fire operations, to name a few. In addition to being a wealth of information about the department’s physical plant, he was also an expert in its history. He took great pride in the department and played an instrumental role in both the 50th and 75th anniversary celebrations. He said one of his proudest days was the day he was honored in 2014 as the Grand Marshal of the 75th Department’s anniversary parade. In speaking about ex-Chief Tuthill, Chief Joe Lenahan said that he will be sorely missed, not only by the Montauk Fire Department, but by all departments on Eastern Long Island. It’s hard to believe that we won’t be hearing Craig’s famous “Hey, Babe!” any more. On behalf of the men and women of the department, Chief Lenahan would expressed his condolences to the family. - The Chiefs, Officers and Members of the Montauk Fire Department
Selden’s Gene Schubert
Gene Schubert, a 45-year life member of the Selden Fire Department September 23, 2016. Gene started his career as a member of Heavy Rescue Company 4 and a US Navy veteran answered his last alarm. The members of the Selden Fire Department, led by Chief Michael Matteo and Chaplin Peter before finishing his service as a senior active Company 6 member. - Fire News photo by Vincent Ammirati Cincotta, honored their brother Gene at Calverton National Cemetery on
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Obituary
Dix Hills FD Mourns Ex-Captain Buddy Byrne The Dix Hills Fire Department was saddened by the loss of exCaptain Buddy E. Byrne, 53, who answered his last alarm on August 14, 2016. Buddy joined the department in 1987 and served as Lieutenant and Captain of Company Two at Headquarters. He had several years of prior service with the Huntington Manor FD. Buddy loved being a firefighter and officer, training the new members and taking them under his wing. He was very proficient in the use of heavy rescue extrication tools, and knew the best way to open a wrecked car to safely remove a trapped victim. Buddy was also a former EMT on the Dix Hills Rescue Squad, and was active with fundraising events and the fund drive. Buddy owned and operated car repair and muffler shops, and had a lifelong interest in cars. He was good friends and neighbors with fellow Dix Hills and FDNY firefighter Terry Farrell, who died at the World Trade Center on 9/11. “Buddy had a heart of gold. He would do anything to help anyone, and would literally give you the shirt off his back,” said ex-Chief Joey D’Alessandro who was Buddy’s best friend. Wake services were held at fire headquarters, with the funeral at St. Matthews RC Church in Dix Hills. Burial was at Pinelawn Cemetery. Buddy is survived by his wife Katie, and daughters Karen, Kelly and Kasey. - Fire News photos by Steve Silverman
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Obituary
Rocky Point’s Frank W. Stringer Rocky Point Fire Department Honorary Chief Frank W. Stringer was laid to rest on May16, 2016, following an illness. Frank joined the department in March 1974. He served as Captain of the Rocky Point Fire Co. 1 in 1987, several terms as Captain of Fire Police Co. 4 and was a trustee of the department’s benevolent association when he died. He was honored as the Fireman of the Year in 1984 for his skilled treatment of a child struck by a vehicle near his home, as well as being bestowed the title of Honorary Chief of the Rocky Point Fire Department. Frank was well known throughout New York State through his longtime involvement with several fraternal firematic organizations in which he served in many capacities supporting the operations of local and state fire police. During his tenure, he served as the President of the Brookhaven Town Fire Police Association (2006-2007), New York State Fire Police Association (2012-2013) and the Brookhaven Town Firemen’s Advisory Board (2015-Present). Frank was employed as an air traffic controller with the Federal Aviation Administration for 11 years and later worked as the district manager for the Rocky Point Fire District. Known for his ability to coordinate resources, Frank was an integral part of the planning and execution of many large-scale operations whether an emergency scene, charity motorcycle run or funeral detail. In addition, his talents were recruited for the inaugural large-scale antique fire apparatus photo shoot in 2015 and were instrumental in its success. Frank is survived by his wife of 53 years Judy, his son Neil (Megan) as well as grandchildren Maura and Matthew. Firematic services were held at St. Anthony of Padua Roman Catholic Church with interment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. - Fire News photos by Tom Rinelli
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