VOLUME XLIII, NO. 4
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Since 1973 DECEMBER 2015
Full story on page 6. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Season’s Greetings from the staff at Fire News
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In this issue... Wantagh Restaurant Fire Wantagh firefighters responded to a fire at Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza on Seaford Avenue in Wantagh.
See story page 12
Melville Camp Building Fire The Melville FD along with mutual aid companies put out a fire at a unoccupied day camp. See story page 20
Florist Shop Goes Up Friday the thirteenth proves unlucky for a Terryville florist. See story page 28
Northport Holds MCI Drill Eight fire departments and ambulance companies — and others — participate in a simulated plane crash. See story page 53
Wantagh’s Kathy True Gets FASNY Award The Wantagh Ladies Auxiliary President receives a Lifetime Achievement Award. See story page 66
4th Battalion FD Donates to Burn Center The 4th Battalion fire departments donate $4900 to the Nassau County Firefighters Burn Foundation. See stories page 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: Tim Asbell, Bill Bennett, Chris Brenner, Kirk Candan, George Caracost, Wayne Carrington, Mike Cimino, Charles Cole, Joe Comprato, Ed Coppa, Bill D’Alessandro, Mike DesCalso, Jim Dunn, Larry Fox, Lou Gelabart, Martin Goffe, Myron Goldstein, Richard Gomez, Bryan Gosik, Carol Griffin, Brian Grogan, Steve Grogan, Daniel Gunther, Michael Gunther, Jeff Havlik, Jack Healy, Branden Heller, Michael Heller, Robert Holley, Andrew House, Linda Imbriale, Kevin Imm, John Ippolito, Joe LaPietra, Paul Llobell, Bryan Lopez, Harry Loud, Andrew McShane, Brad Maier, Paul Mazza, Terry McCarrick, Mike McCarthy, Lou Minutoli, Ron Monteleone, Jim Mooney, Ilene Morris, Michael Murphy, Charles A. Murphy, Phil Orlando, Robert O'Rourk, Francis "Sid" Parkan, Kevin Parkan, Tom Pesce, Kevin Peterson, Jackson Pokress, Myles Quinn, Christina Rahn, Leonard Rivera, Dave Rubin, Jerry Rudolph, Jim Rugen, Orlando Salcedo, Steve Schaefer, Alan Shields, Drew Silverman, Steve Silverman, Steve Smaldon, Tom Smyth Jr., Bob Sorenson, Joe Sperber, Rich Stark, Andrew Tetreault, Ed Tuffy, Joe Virgilio, Joe Volpi, Dennis Whittam, Michael Wiwczar, John Wladyka Jr. COLUMNISTS: Bruce Johnson, John Salka, Chief Billy Goldfeder, Bradley Pinsky, Roseann Mariani COPYRIGHT 2015, 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.
42 Years of Excellence As you know, Fire News is in its 42nd 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
Time to Reflections December has arrived and 2015 has gone by in the blink of an eye. As I sit back and reflect on the year I leave 2015 with mixed emotions. As Fire News moves into its 43rd year of publication, we continue to grow, playing an integral part of the entire fire service. Hopefully you have grown as a responder in your department. You, the responder, continue to do a job that at times appears thankless and has become more difficult than in the past. You train to be the best that you can be at your profession. Whether you are a paid responder or a volunteer, training has increased to a point that it reiterates the saying “being a first responder is not a job, but a lifestyle.” As the year comes to an end, I thank all of you for your dedication and commitment to your community. As we enter the holiday season, I ask you to give thought and remember the families of the fallen. Sadly, but proudly, Fire News honored as many responders as we could. Whether or not it was a line of duty death or a death from natural causes, we made the
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effort to honor as many members as possible in our paper. We were proud to honor the individuals who gave their life to the fire-rescue and emergency service. To date, there have been 71 firefighter fatalities in the United States. If your department had the misfortune of losing a member, please reach out to the families during the holidays to let them know you are there for them. What should you do in 2016? You should attend the seminars that raise funds to help various causes. Attend events that are held by departments and organizations to raise funds for “the cause.” When you see an event that was covered in Fire News, ask yourself why you were not there. Training is what keeps you alive. Remember, life saving skills must become second nature, and that only happens if you constantly train. As we end 2015, ask yourself why you are part of the fire-rescue and emergency services. If you “talk the talk, but do not walk the walk,” do something about it. Quitting is not an option. Make the
people who we have lost this year proud of you. Train like you mean it, respond to calls with the passion that you may be saving a family member and remember the lessons learned from the heroes of the past. Wearing a uniform shows you are a member of an organization. When you wear your uniform, wear it with meaning. The next time you put on your uniform, wear it with dignity and ask yourself if you are really doing all you can to deserve the title of being a first responder. I wish everyone a safe and happy holiday. On behalf of Fire News, I thank you for what you do. Reflect on 2015 and ask yourself how you can do more in 2016. Happy holidays! ....Dennis
ANNOUNCEMENTS LADIES AUXILIARY: AN EVENING WITH PSYCHIC JEFFREY WANDS
more about the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, go to www.firehero.org.
On Saturday, January 16, 2016, the Suffolk County Volunteer WHERE ARE YOUR Firemen’s Association Ladies Auxiliary will present an Evening With DEPARTMENT’S PHOTOS? Psychic Jeffrey Wands at the West Sayville Fire Department, 80 Main We would like to remind our readers that we are always happy to Street, West Sayville. Seating will begin at 1830 and the show will begin receive photos and stories from departments who have never been in our at 1930. For tickets, which are $30 per person, go to: www.brownpapertick- paper. Feel free to e-mail your photos to li@fire news.com. We ask that any ets.com/event/2332606. For further information call 631-806-3918. 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 SALES FROM LIMITED-RELEASE them to us. Please send two to four photos per incident. Also, include a WINE SUPPORT EFFORTS TO brief write-up of the incident, event, or family news, which includes basic “who, what, when, and where” information. HONOR FALLEN FIREFIGHTERS We look forward to seeing your department in our next issue. For the third year in a row the National Fallen Firefighters - Ed. Foundation (NFFF) has partnered with Northern California’s Distant Cellars to offer a special limited wine release to raise money and awareness for an important cause. The mission of the NFFF is to honor and remember America’s fallen fire heroes, provide resources to assist their survivors, and work within the fire service community to reduce firefighter deaths and injuries. The annual special limited release of Tribute is produced and sold by family-owned and operated Distant Cellars, which donates 30 percent of all Tribute wine sales to the foundation. Since 2013 the annual wine sale for the likes! has raised nearly $50,000 This year's release started on November 23. “With a firefighter and an Air Force pilot among the brothers, we (Help us get to 110,000!) understand firsthand the risks our public servants take each and every day, the hardships endured by our loved ones, and the joy that comes from a life of service,” says Drew Gaiser, one of Distant Cellars owners and a Colorado-based firefighter. “We are excited to partner again with Distant Cellars Winery for this unique and very popular opportunity, and we’re looking forward to building upon the success of the past two years,” said Chief Ronald Siarnicki, Executive Director of the NFFF. “The Gaiser family’s commitment to the Foundation’s mission is deeply appreciated.” To order a bottle of the 2012 Tribute vintage, or for more information about the fundraiser, visit www.distantcellars.com/NFFF. To learn
THANK YOU! 100,000
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Huntington Manor Merry Christmas Apartment Blaze and Happy Holidays
The Huntington Manor Fire Department responded to a fire at the Lincoln Farms Apartments on First Avenue and East 9th Street in Huntington Station on October 19, 2015. Firefighters evacuated 30 apartments from the three-story building residents. The fire was under command of Chief Frank McQuade and Assistant Chiefs Jon Hoffmann and Chuck Brady. The fire was confined to a second floor apartment, which was heavily damaged. About five other apartments were affected by smoke and water damage. Greenlawn assisted at the scene, Melville provided standby. Over 20 people were displaced and assisted by the Red Cross and Suffolk County OEM. - Fire News story by Steve Silverman; HMFD photo
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3 Times No Charm
Hempstead firefighters were on the scene of a raging house fire in a vacant house on Albermarle Avenue in Hempstead on November 9, 2015. The blaze was the third on the site since the home became unoccupied. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Hicksville Basement Fire Beat
On October 16, 2015, the Hicksville Fire Department responded to a working house fire on Moeller Street. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered a wellinvolved basement fire in a two-story Cape. Two handlines were stretched off Engine 933, quickly extinguishing the fire. Mutual aid came from Bethpage, Jericho and Syosset. - Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
Flames Show in West Babylon
On October 24, 2015, the West Babylon Fire Department was alerted for a house fire on 16th Street. Second Assistant Chief Schumann arrived and had heavy fire showing from the exposure 3 and 4 sides. Chief of Department McArdle, First Assistant Chief Manzi and Third Assistant Chief Sullo arrived, along with Engine 1-9-6, followed immediately by Engine 1-9-8. Engine crews put multiple lines into operation to extinguish the fire that extended into the attic and
through the roof. The crews from Heavy Rescue 1-9-15 and Ladder 1-9-4 laddered, vented and searched the home. Two occupants home at the time escaped the house uninjured. It took about an hour to bring the fire under control with the house heavily damaged. North Babylon, Wyandanch and East Farmingdale also responded. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
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Wyandanch Contains Fire
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The Wyandanch Fire Company was activated for a house fire on Engine 1-10-3 stretched one line to the second floor and quickly North 24th Street on October 21, 2015. First Assistant Chief contained the fire. There were no reported injuries and the cause Deangelis arrived to smoke showing from the second floor of the was under investigation. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza home. Chief of Department T. Brown, Second Assistant Chief R. Brown arrived shortly after with Chief T. Brown taking command.
East Brentwood Kitchen Fire
On October 20, 2015, FRES received a call regarding a kitchen fire at a residence on Ralph Avenue in East Brentwood. With 3-3-30, Nick Grammenos, in charge, the fire was contained to the kitchen of the two-story home, with one line stretched. The fire was brought under control in a half-hour with smoke and water damage to the
home. The Brentwood Fire Department was requested on mutual aid to stand by at East Brentwood, with Hauppauge RIT responding to the scene. Additionally, the Islip Town Fire Marshal’s office was on scene. - Fire News photo by Rich Stark
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Quick Knockdown in Centereach
On October 24, 2015, the Centereach Fire Department was activated for a reported residential structure fire on Hunter Lane. Commanding units arrived to find heavy smoke showing. Mutual aid was requested from Selden, Ronkonkoma and Farmingville. The fire was quickly knocked down by first-due units. One occupant of the home was transported to Stony Brook University Hospital for smoke inhalation via Centereach Ambulance. - Fire News photos by Bryan Lopez
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Home Burns in Shirley
On November 1, 2015, the Mastic Fire Department responded to an alarm on Oak Avenue in Shirley. Chief (5-12-30) Rudy Sunderman arrived to find a fire in a two-story home that was said to be vacant. Assistant Chief Jim Mickert arrived on scene shortly after. Chef Sunderman requested mutual aid from Center Moriches, Ridge and Brookhaven. Firefighters quickly knocked down the fire; there were no occupants in the building. Also on scene were Suffolk County Police, Suffolk County Arson, Brookhaven Fire Marshal, Mastic Ambulance, Mastic Beach Ambulance and Shirley Ambulance. - Fire News photos by Jim Rugen
Wantagh Restaurant Fire
On October 29, 2015, Wantagh firefighters responded to a fire at Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza on Seaford Avenue in Wantagh. The original alarm was for an investigation, but Assistant Chief Kelly quickly requested a full response upon his arrival. Smoke was seen throughout the restaurant with fire showing in the rear. Upon the arrival of the first engine, a line was stretched inside, while the first-
due truck went to the roof to vent and the second-due truck forced doors to the stores on the exposure 2, 4 and 4A. The fire originated around an oven and extended into the ceiling and ducts with a common cockloft above. It was contained to the ceiling and ducts. - Fire News photo by Harry Loud
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Structure Fire in East Islip
On November 4, 2015, the East Islip Fire Department was activated for a structure fire on Quail Run. Unit 3-5-31, Tom Zimmer, was first on scene and reported smoke showing from the second floor windows. The crew from 3-5-3 stretched a line while the crew from 3-5-5
vented the building and checked for extension. The Islip Fire Department assisted with 3-4-32 (Thomas Butler), and Ladder 3-4-5, as did Exchange Ambulance of the Islips. Great River provided standby coverage at East Islip. - Fire News photo by Richard Stark
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Smithtown Country Club Fire
On October 29, 2015, the Smithtown Fire Department was toned out for an automatic alarm in the maintenance shop and golf cart storage facility at the Stonebridge Country Club. Upon arrival firefighters encountered a two-story building fully engulfed. The primary attack was undertaken by Smithtown Ladder 4-2-7 and Hauppague Ladder 3-8-7. Lines were also deployed to one of the outside exposures. The building suffered major damage with the upper level, used to store golf carts, a total loss, and the lower level, used to house maintenance equipment, heavily damaged. Mutual aid at the scene was provided by Hauppauge and Nesconset with additional ambulance support from Central Islip/Hauppauge Volunteer Ambulance. On scene were Smithtown Chiefs 4-2-30 (Murphy) 4-2-31 (Landrigan) 4-2-32 (Fitzpatrick) and 4-2-33 (Diecidue), Engines 4-2-1, 4-2-3, 4-2-4, 4-2-5, Ladder 4-2-7, Rescue 4-2-9, Ambulance 4-2-6-1 and 4-2-65. - Fire News photos by Jeff Bressler; PIO/SFD and Joseph C. Sperber
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Montauk Motel Loses Unit
On October 27, 2015, the Montauk Fire Department was called to Hartman'’ Briney Breezes Motel on Old Montauk Highway for a fire. Upon arrival, units found one of the five separate buildings fully involved with fire, and immediately called for mutual aid. Amagansett, East Hampton and Springs responded to the scene; Bridgehampton, Springs and Sag Harbor were called to stand by. According to Montauk Chief Joe Lenahan, over 120 firefighters were on scene at the height of the battle. Since the summer season was passed, all of the units in the building were unoccupied, and there were no reported injuries. The main body of fire was knocked down in about an hour. - Fire News photos by Michael Heller
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Lynbrook Commercial Garage Fire On October 6, 2015, Lynbrook firefighters, under the command of Chief James McDermott, fought a stubborn fire in a refrigerated truck inside a garage on Merrick Road. Due to the fire damage to the truss ceiling beams there was no advance into the garage for fear of a roof collapse. Three hose lines from Engine Company 1, who was first in, was used from the front of the garage to extinguish the fire. The fire was believed caused by an electrical short in the truck. Firefighters were at the scene for two hours. East Rockaway and Rockville Center responded on a mutual aid while Malverne and Lakeview stood-by to cover other alarms. - Fire News photo by Steve Grogan
Brentwood Goes to Work On October 27, 2015, Firecom alerted the Brentwood Fire Department for a structure at the Heritage Garden Apartments on Fairfield Circle. Three lines were in operation for the fire, which was in the attic of a U-shaped unit in the complex. The fire extended into two of the apartments while at least four others suffered smoke and water damage. With the assistance of the mutual aid departments and 60 firefighters, the fire was extinguished in short order with no firefighter or civilian injuries reported. - Fire News photo by Rich Stark
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2 Dead in Dix Hills Crash
The Dix Hills Fire Department responded to a head-on collision with an involved car fire on the Northern State Parkway on October 20, 2015. An SUV traveling westbound in the eastbound lanes between the Wolf Hill Road and Route 231 exits struck a car head-
on, engulfing the SUV in flames. The Dix Hills Fire Department responded with two rescue engines and extinguished the blaze. Both drivers were pronounced dead at the scene, according to Suffolk Police. - Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
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Melville Camp Building Fire
The Melville Fire Department responded to a fire at the Crestwood Day Camp on Round Swamp Road on November 5, 2015. Upon arrival, firefighters found a heavy fire condition in one of the camp’s buildings. Assisting Melville were East Farmingdale, Huntington Manor, Farmingdale, Plainview and Dix Hills. It took
an hour to bring the blaze under control. Suffolk County Police and Huntington Fire Marshals were requested to determine the cause. The property was unoccupied at the time and no injuries were reported. - Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber and Steve Silverman
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Massapequa Never Stops
The Massapequa FD under the command of Chief Gerard Keuchler responded to Division Avenue for the second time in just a few days for a working house fire on November 11. The previous incident at this address was for a car fire in the home's attached garage. The Seaford Fire Department was on the scene with Truck 683 acting as the FAST unit. No injuries were reported for this incident. -Fire News photos by Jack Healy
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Trailer Burns in Plainview On October 26, 2015, the Plainview Fire Department was alerted for a report of a trailer fire on the North Bound Seaford Oyster Bay expressway at Old Country Road. Crews stretched two lines off Engine 9511 and knocked down the fire and used a dry chemical extinguisher to extinguish a fire in the gasoline tank of a lawn mower. -Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
Truck Burns in Jericho On October 30, 2015, the Jericho Fire Department responded to a truck fire on the westbound Long Island Expressway at the Route 106/107 entrance ramp. Arriving units found a fully involved tow truck on the shoulder and stretched one line and extinguished the fire. -Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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Hope for the Warriors
On November 7, 2015, the Hope for the Warriors evening of “Giving Back” was held at the North Babylon Fire Department Headquarters. The evening, which was attended by local and county friends in government, was sponsored by the Constantino Brumidi Lodge 2211 and the Babylon Fire Chiefs Association. The
night was organized by many people, including Deer Park ex-Chief Tom Richardson, North Babylon Assistant Chief Brian Cullen and FDNY Captain (ret.) John Vigiano. Thank you to our veterans who have given their all to keep our country free. To all — welcome home. - Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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Hagerman Dedicates Memorial Park
This year on September 11, the Hagerman Fire Department dedicated their memorial park. Hagerman invited the entire community and dedicated the memorial to all lost on 9/11 with special recognition to their own member, FF Andrew Desperito. As part of the dedication, the department was surprised with a visit and special ceremony from the US Air Force Honor Guard. Leading the Honor Guard Ceremony was Major Peter Tritsch, Commander of the US Honor Guard. He is also brother to Hagerman FF Stephen Tritsch, Uncle to FF Denise Tritsch, and Jr Firefighter Stephen Tritsch. Along with Chief Mahoney, the commissioners and members, the community will be able to visit the memorial and reflect. - Fire News photos by JoAnn Stephanie
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Islandia Basement Fire
Early on November 10, 2015, Central Islip Fire Department responded to a basement fire on Pine Cone Lane in Islandia. First Assistant Chief Bob McGee commanded operations on arrival. An aggressive interior attack was initiated and the fire was knocked down in a very short time. There was extensive fire damage to the portion of the basement involved, with resultant smoke, heat and
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water damage throughout the residence. Chief McGee requested mutual aid from Hauppauge, Islip Terrace (standy by) and Lakeland for an ambulance to the scene. The Central IslipHauppauge Volunteer Ambulance Company was also on scene; one CIFD firefighter was treated at the scene for smoke inhalation. - Fire News photo by Charles A. Murphy, CIFD Photo Unit
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Quick Work in Holbrook
On November 1, 2015, the Holbrook Fire Department was activated for a brush fire in a patch of woods behind on a residential area on Furrows Road. First-due Engine 3-15-6 stretched a booster line and knocked down the fire that had extended to a section of fence. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
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Well, It Was Friday the Thirteenth
The Terryville Fire Department was called out on November 13, 2015, for a fully involved structure fire on Oakland Avenue at Malkmes Florist. In a well coordinated attack, the first arriving engine from Port Jefferson, immediately started an exterior operation on the fire, while Terryville’s ladder and engines were setting up handlines and master streams. Selden and Mt. Sinai were on scene; Coram covered. The fire was safely brought under control after several hours of operation. Terryville Chief of Department Richard McCarren had command and Terryville Assistant Chief Tom Young handled operations. The cause of the fire was under investigation. -Fire News photos by Fully Involved Media Group and Dennis Whittam
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ATV Burns in Selden
On October 4, 2015, Selden firefighters made quick work of a the fire melted a garden hose, which acted as a sprinkler. A thorgarage fire on Hemlock Street that appears to have started in a all- ough overhaul of the garage made sure all fire was extinguished. - Fire News photo by Dennis Whittam terrain vehicle. The flames were kept in check when the heat from
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In Memoriam
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St. James’ Ex-Captain Richard Weisse, Sr. Ex-Captain Richard Weisse, Sr., a 42-year member of the St. James Fire Department was honored today with the renaming of Fifth Street to Richard D. Weisse Street.The ceremony took place with family and friends and Town of Smithtown Councilmen Robert J. Creighton and Edward R. Wehrheim, and Smithtown Town Clerk Vincent Puleo. Weisse was past-Captain of the Fire/Rescue/Ambulance Company, pastLieutenant of Engine Company One, Chairman of the Junior Fire Department, a member of the Fire Prevention Committee, past-Drill Team Member and a third-generation fireman with his two children continuing the tradition. On the morning of November 15, 2014, exCaptain Richard Weisse, Sr., was conducting a food drive for a local pantry with Junior Fire Department members when he was summoned for an alarm at the local high school. Subsequently, after adjudication of the alarm and completion of the food drive, Mr. Weisse collapsed. The St. James Fire Department was summoned, members initiated lifesaving efforts and then transported him to Stony Brook University Hospital. Lengthy resuscitative efforts at the hospital were performed, but ex-Captain Weisse passed away. - Fire News photos by Ron Monteleone
Nesconset’s Ex-Chief Ross Huffer Ex-Chief Ross Huffer who was a 48-year member of the Nesconset Fire Department was honored today with the renaming of Mildred Court to Ross E. Huffer Court. The ceremony took place with family and friends and members of the department. Town of Smithtown Councilmen Robert J. Creighton and Edward R. Wehrheim, and Smithtown Town Clerk Vincent Puleo also attended. Ex-Chief Huffer was the Nesconset Chief of Department from 1982-1984. He received the Medal of Valor for saving a resident from a house
fire in December of 1981. He also received the Smithtown Fire Chiefs Council’s Unit Citation in 1992 and 1994. Ross was directly responsible for restoring the department’s 1937 American LaFrance pumper. His restoration of the pumper resulted in the department winning numerous awards. Ex-Chief Huffer died from an apparent heart attack when he returned from a previous alarm. Ross Huffer was added to the New York State Fallen Firefighters Memorial at the Empire State Plaza in downtown Albany. - Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
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Selden Vacant House Fire
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On November 11, 2015, the Selden Fire department was activated for a residential structure fire at a vacant home on Linden Street. Upon arrival, Chief 5-25-31 was met with heavy smoke and fire from the second floor. Mutual aid was requested from Centereach, Farmingville, Coram, Terryville and Gordon Heights. Multiple attack lines were stretched and the fire was quickly knocked down without further incident. No injuries were reported. Command requested a Town of Brookhaven Fire Marshal and the Suffolk County Police Arson Squad to the scene for an investigation. - Fire News photos by Bryan Lopez, Amanda Coffey, David Rubin and AJ Ryan
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Marina Car Fire
On October 4, 2015, the Lindenhurst Fire Department was dis- the tank water from Engine 1-6-3 after the vehicle’s gas tank ignitpatched to a car fire at the Lindenhurst Village Marina at the end ed. The two occupants of the car were able to escape the vehicle of South Wellwood Avenue. Upon the arrival of Chief of safely. It took about 20 minutes extinguish the fire. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza Department DeGregorio, Second Assistant Chief and Engine 1-6-6, a car was found fully involved. The crew from 1-6-6 used foam and
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EMS ACROSS THE ISLAND
Malverne Storm Drain Rescue
On October 14, 2015, Malverne firefighters, under the command of Chief James Lang, responded to a reported child stuck in a sewer a block from a school on Corona Avenue in Valley Stream. On arrival, it was determined that it was a man who entered the storm drain in the nearby Valley Stream State Park, and was stuck underneath Corona Avenue as the drain size decreased. His calls for help were coming out of the curb drain near the school where a nearby resident heard his cries. Firefighters could not access the drain where the victim could be heard but were able to enter one across Corona Avenue. A Malverne firefighter and a Nassau County ESU officer climbed down a ladder into the drain pipe maze, moved under the roadway, and were able to find and turn the man around, and bring him back. Besides ESU, Nassau County’s Southwest Tactical Rescue Team responded. The victim turned out to be a homeless man in his 30s wearing a hospital band. He was uninjured and was hosed down by firefighters. Nassau County EMS treated the subject and took him to the hospital. The Malverne firefighter was also checked out at the hospital. - Fire News photos by Steve Grogan and Brian Grogan
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EMS ACROSS THE ISLAND
Major Gas Line Break in Hicksville
The Hicksville Fire Department and Nassau County Police responded to a large gas main break at the intersection of Charlotte and Duffy Avenues in Hicksville on November 4, 2015. Roads in the area were closed until National Grid crews and firefighters were able to control the leak. Evacuations of local businesses and pedestrians in the area were conducted by police. Assisting were firefighters from Westbury, Jericho and Syosset. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
Medevac Needed for Industrial Accident
On October 31, 2015, the Deer Park Fire Department responded to an industrial accident with a male with crushed fingers and hand at Apogee Trans Lighting. Upon assessing the injuries, Deer Park Chief Larry Bradbury requested aviation from Suffolk County Police, which landed at the John F. Kennedy School and transported the man to Stony Brook University Hospital. - Fire News photo by BTFirePhoto.com
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Hit by Train in Copiague
October 8, 2015, the Copiague Fire Department was activated for a reported person struck by a train at the Copiague LIRR station. Second Assistant Chief Rosenberg arrived and found a female injured under the train and conscious. Engine 1-3-9, Heavy Rescue 1-3-3 and Ambulance 1-3-2 responded along with North Lindenhurst Ladder 1-11-4. It took about 15 minutes to extricate the woman, who was taken by 1-3-2 to Copiague High School where a Suffolk County Police helicopter was waiting to transport her to Stony Brook University Hospital. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
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Heavy Rescue in Mineola
On October 8, 2015, a serious accident shut down Willis Avenue in Mineola when an SUV and a sport truck collided in a near head-on. Both drivers were trapped in their vehicles and were extricated by Mineola firefighters and County ESU units using hydraulic tools. The injured were transported to area hospitals by Nassau County ambulance. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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5 Injured in Farmingville MVA
On September 18, 2015, the Farmingville Fire Department respond- Road and Leeds Boulevard. Mutual aid came from Holtsville along ed to an MVA call with a school bus involved. Chief Al Licata was with Farmingville’s two ambulances. Five people were transported in charge with help from Chief Dave Smith and Chief Gus to a nearby hospital with minor injuries. - Fire News photo by Cameron Wilken Grammenos. The incident occurred at the intersection of Portion
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Fire News, December 2015, Page 39
Tools Put to Work in Hicksville
On September 12, 2015, the Plainview Fire Department was alerted for an MVA with fire and entrapment on Old Country Road. Arriving units found an overturned car that had struck a hydrant and a tree with no fire and the driver still in the car. Heavy Rescue 957 put hydraulic tools to work and removed the driver’s side doors to extricate the driver who was transported in serious condition. - Fire News photos by Kevin Imm
Out of Control in Kings Park On June 19, 2015, the Suffolk Police and Kings Park Fire Department responded to an accident at the intersection of Pulaski Road and Avenue B in Kings Park. A car apparently lost control striking a street sign and a telephone pole. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
Page 40, Fire News, December 2015
FireNews.com
Pickup Truck Slams Building in Huntington Manor The Huntington Manor Fire Department responded to a crash after a pickup truck slammed into a medical building on East Jericho Turnpike near Engelke Avenue on October 16, 2015. The pickup truck was traveling eastbound on Jericho Turnpike when it struck the building, causing extensive damage. Huntington Manor responded with two heavy rescue trucks, an engine and ladder truck, under the command of Chief Frank McQuade and Assistant Chief Chuck Brady. The driver suffered minor injuries and was transported to Huntington Hospital by Huntington Community Ambulance. - Fire News story by Steve Silverman, photos sourtesy Huntington Manor FD
Car Crashes Coram Condo On November 1, 2015, a car driven by a neighbor lost control and smashed through the front wall of a condo unit in Bretton Woods, Coram. Firefighters responded and extracted the occupants form the condo unit. No one was injured. - Fire News photo by Jim Dunn
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Page 44, Fire News, December 2015
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Hard Hit in Hempstead A violent two-vehicle crash at the intersection of Greenwich Street and Peninsula Boulevard in Hempstead early on October 28, 2015, sent at least two people to area hospitals. Hempstead firefighters had to extricate the driver of an SUV after the collision with a sedan. Village police were also on the scene. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Pinned in Selden The Selden Fire Department responded to an MVA with overturn and pin on November 3, 2015. The accident occurred on northbound Nicolls Road by Suffolk County Community College. Firefighters from Rescue 4 extricated the unconscious person and Selden Ambulance transported the person to Stony Brook University Hospital with unknown injuries. - Fire News photo by Cameron Wilken
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Fire News, December 2015, Page 45
Page 46, Fire News, December 2015
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1 Pinned in 3-Car MVA At least two people were injured in a threecar MVA on South Franklin Street near Botsford Street in Hempstead on November 10, 2015. One driver was pinned in his car and had to be removed by Hempstead firefighters. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Coram Van Fire Tim Asbell of Coram Fire Department cuts open a van that caught fire with a five-gallon gas can in the rear and a running generator that would not shut down. The call was on Route 25 and Grant Smith Road intersection. - Fire News photo by Jim Dunn
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Fire News, December 2015, Page 47
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Page 48, Fire News, December 2015
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Truck into Bldg. in Roslyn Hts. On October 13, 2015, the Roslyn Fire Department and Nassau Police responded to a truck which crashed into a building on Lincoln Avenue at the corner of Locust Street in Roslyn Heights. One business suffered heavy structural damage. The truck’s brakes apparently failed causing the accident. One minor injury was reported. Town of North Hempstead building department representatives were on scene along with Bethpage and Port Washington fire departments’ technical rescue teams to secure the building. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
Cyclist Injured in Mattituck Mattituck Fire Department 1st Assistant Chief Eric Haas (red shirt) assists department EMTs to board an injured cyclist for transport to Peconic Bay Medical Center. - Fire News photo by J.V. Sawicki, MFD
FireNews.com
Fire News, December 2015, Page 49
2 Pinned in N. Lindenhurst Head-on The North Lindenhurst Fire Department was alerted for an MVA with reported entrapment on Straight Path between Winchester and Maple Drives on October 21, 2015. First Assistant Chief Newman arrived and requested Ladder 1-11-4. There were three people injured and the two who were trapped were the drivers. The crew from Ladder 1-11-4 extricated one driver in about 15 minutes. The driver of other car was heavily pinned and the crew from 1-11-5 had multiple tools in operation. He was taken by West Babylon Ambulance 1-9-17 to a waiting Suffolk County Police helicopter for transport to Stony Brook University Hospital with serious injuries. The driver and passenger of the other car were taken to Good Samaritan Hospital by North Lindenhurst Ambulances 1-11-6 and 1-11-7. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Medford MVA The Medford Fire Department responded to an MVA with an unconscious person at the intersection of Route 112 and Express Drive North on October 25, 2015. Unit 5-14-30 was in charge and two patients were transported to a local hospital with unknown injuries via Medford Ambulance. - Fire News photo by Cameron Wilken
Page 50, Fire News, December 2015
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TERC Tournament Held in Hagerman
The 2015 North American Vehicle Rescue Challenge held at the Hagerman Fire Department brought teams from Canada and Long Island together to hone their skills in vehicle extrication. The following teams placed in the event: Overall: 1st Place Mississagua, Ontario; 2nd Place - Enfield, Nova Scotia; 3rd Place - Oakville Team 1, Ontario. Long Island Teams Overall: 8th Place - Montauk; 9th Place - Hagerman Team 2; 10th Place - West Babylon; 11th Place - Middle Island. - Fire News photos by JoAnn Stephani; story by Carl Fargione
Page 52, Fire News, December 2015
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Hoboes Take Third NYS Championship The Central lslip Fire Department’s Drill Team, the Hoboes, are shown in their Team Portrait for 2015. The Hoboes completed a very successful season this year, capturing first place in eight of 10 motorized drills they entered, including a first place tie with the West Sayville’s Flying Dutchmen at the New York State Drill, which was one of the most exciting state drills in the history of the sport. A total of nine teams entered the bucket brigade contest with a chance to win the championship. This year the Hoboes were led by Captain Gary Zdenek, 1st Lieutenant David Miller and 2nd Lieutenant Brian Kesler. Over the past seven seasons, the Hoboes have won 41 motorized drills, including four New York State Championships and four Suffolk County Total Points Championships. - Fire News photo by Lindsey Miller
Another Look at the NYS Drill in Ridge - Fire News photo by Andrew Tetreault
Yaphank MCI Drill On October 20, 2015, the Yaphank Fire Department hosted a MCI drill involving a full-size school bus occupied with children. The scenario was an MVA with entrapment of a school bus into a tree with its driver DOA. Local students from a nearby school played the victims. Mutual aid was provided by the Coram Fire Department and Shirley EMS. After the children were extricated from the bus they were escorted to a triage area where they were evaluated by EMTs. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
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Fire News, December 2015, Page 53
Northport Holds MCI Drill
The Northport Fire Department conducted a Mass Casualty Incident (MCI) drill at the National Grid-Northport Power Station property on Waterside Avenue on October 25, 2015. The drill simulated a plane crash with 30 passengers aboard with victims on the power plant property and in the water. Two school buses were utilized as the plane fuselage with some of the passengers still trapped within the wreckage. Junior firefighters and EMS were scattered in and around the wreckage and were outfitted with simulated injuries (moulage). Firefighters used heavy rescue tools to extricate the passengers from the wreck, as EMS crews triaged and treated the patients. Several floating mannequins were also placed in the water for search and rescue operations. Eight fire departments and ambulance squads participated from Northport, East Northport, Centerport, Greenlawn, Eaton’s Neck, Kings Park, Hicksville, and the Huntington Community First Aid Squad. Other agencies that took part were the US Coast Guard, Suffolk County Police, Northport Village Police, Huntington Harbormaster, Suffolk County Fire Rescue, and National Grid personnel. As part of the drill scenario, patients were transported by ambulances to Huntington Hospital for the hospital’s required mass casualty drill. Over 100 firefighters, emergency medical and first response personnel were involved with the drill, using about 20 vehicles and five rescue boats. The drill was held under the command of Northport Fire Chief Joe Pansini, and operations by First Assistant Chief Brad Wine who coordinated the drill, and Second Assistant Chief John Jacobsen. - Fire News story and photos by Steve Silverman and John Mancino
Page 54, Fire News, December 2015
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Suffolk County USAR Drill
On November 1, 2015, the Suffolk County USAR Team held a water rescue drill on Lake Ronkonkoma. The drill was designed to familiarize the members of the team with the equipment and techniques required to quickly and safely rescue anyone in distress on the water. The drill was organized by USAR Team Manager Brett Martinez and Plans Manager Donald Lynch. - Fire News photos by Ron Monteleone
Page 56, Fire News, December 2015
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Orient Tanker Donation
Donation to the NLEAFCF
The Orient Fire Department donated a tanker to the Terry Farrell Fund, which will go to the Antioch Volunteer Fire Department in Brookwood, Alabama. Pictured are: Brian Farrell, chairman of the Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund, ex-Chief Robert Reeves, Jr., and Commissioner Scott Harris - Fire News photo courtesy of Annamarie Tucker, Coordinator
Will McGuire (center) of Garden City’s Global Elite Group presents $10,000 to the National Law Enforcement and Firefighters Children’s Foundation (NLEAFCF) Executive Director, Sarahbeth Grossman and Founder and President, Al Kahn. - Fire News photo courtesy of Carolyn Stone
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Fire News, December 2015, Page 57
Montauk Emergency Plan Inspired by the devastation caused by Superstorm Sandy, and created because Montauk has its own unique geographical factors to consider, in 2013, the Montauk Fire Department, designed its own Hurricane and Adverse Weather Plan. The plan has been officially endorsed and supported by the Montauk Fire District Board of Commissioners, and is a permanent part of local procedure in the event of a future natural or man-made disaster. Anyone with roots in Montauk is haunted by the memory of the flooding of Napeague Stretch in 1938, when Montauk became an island, with no electricity, drinking water or supplies. So, prior planning is of special importance to the village’s inhabitants. Such a major undertaking may be officially activated only through a very specific chain of command. According to New York State’s Homeland Security and Emergency Services (NYS Executive Law Article 2-B, disaster' means, “occurrence or imminent threat of wide spread or severe damage, injury, or loss of life or property resulting from any natural or manmade causes.” A state disaster emergency can only be declared by the governor, and Montauk’s local emergency service organizations can be activated only by the governor or the East Hampton Town Supervisor. As soon as the MFD chief receives official
notification from either of these two, the chief becomes the Montauk Fire District Incident Commander for the event. The Chief immediately e-mails and texts both the MFD Logistics Officer (currently Denis O’Reilly, Captain of MFD Ladder Company, Company No. 5) and the Head of the Storm Committee (currently Peter Joyce of MFD Company No. 2). In addition, the Information Officer (currently volunteer Edna Steck) is notified, so that she may put her phone volunteers to work contacting those Montaukers, the elderly and others, in need of special attention. As soon as the plan is set in motion, a Command Center is set up at the Montauk Firehouse. Edna, Denis and Peter each
have a defined responsibility. Edna has four teams of callers who contact those on the registered list, 48 hours before, 24 hours before, and the day after any such disaster, to find out what they may need. Denis supervises the implementation and logistics of getting people, vehicles and supplies in motion to their destinations. As head of the MFD Storm Committee, Peter's responsibility is to notify and to set into action MFD Companies No. 1, 2, 3 and 5, each of which is responsible for a specific area of Montauk. Please contact Edna Steck (631-668-2294) to sign up for the Emergency Assistance Program. - MFD Chief Joseph P. Lenahan
Page 58, Fire News, December 2015
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The Legend: Harry Baker Saltaire FD, 65 Years of Service
Recently, Harry Baker marked his 65th year of service to the Islip community. Harry joined the Islip Fire Department in 1950 and raced on the Islip Wolves competition team, which won the 1959 New York State Championship. He also served as Islip Fire Commissioner from 1965 to 1980. In 1976 he joined the ranks of the Saltaire Fire Department and served as Chief for 10 years from 1982-1992. Harry’s now-son-in-law Brian Dunleavy (he and Harry’s daughter, Dale, were
just married at the Saltaire Yacht Club), is a member of the Islip Fire Department, served as Chief for 10 years and is a 30-year member. At teh wedding, Harry walked Dale down the aisle to Brian and in classic Harry Baker tone said, “She is all yours.” Thank you, Harry, for your years of service to the Islip and Saltaire communities. - Fire News story and photo by Brian and Dale Dunleavy
East End FF/EMT of the Year Awards The Southampton Town Fire Chiefs Council held its annual Firefighter and EMT of the Year dinner at the Riverhead Moose Lodge on October 27, 2015. The dinner was held to recognize those volunteers on the North and South Forks who had been chosen by their departments as Firefighter or EMT of the Year 2014. (From the left): Firefighter Gary Vonatski of the Quogue Fire Department, Firefighter Jason Poremba (Southampton), Firefighter Joe Piazza (North Sea), EMT Carolyn Sidor (Mattituck), Firefighter Jeff Wachenfeld (Westhampton Beach), Firefighter Peter Van der Noth (East Marion), Firefighter Damon Vogel (Eastport), and Firefighter Ryan Abrahamsen (Flanders). Not shown were Chris Isola (Westhampton War Memorial Ambulance Association), Brendan Dickson (East Quogue), Dennis Kenter (Riverhea), Lester Trafford (Hampton Bays), James Remkus and Dirk Early (Sag Harbor), William Brewer and William Burns (Cutchogue), and Michael Griffin (East Marion). - Fire News photo courtesy Westhampton Beach FD
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Fire News, December 2015, Page 59
East Northport Chief Follows in Dad’s Footsteps
East Northport Fire Chief Wayne Kaifler, Jr., who was recently installed as the 45th Chief of the East Northport Fire Department, became part of the first father-and-son team to serve as Chiefs in the 107-year history of the department. Wayne’s dad, Wayne Kaifler, Sr., served as Chief from 2001-2002, has been a Fire Commissioner since 2012, and has 32 years of service with the department. Chief Wayne Kaifler, Jr., has been a member for the last 18 years, and an officer for 12 years. Wayne Kaifler, Sr., administered the oath of office to his son as his proud mom Patti, and wife Stacie looked on. - Fire News photos by Steve Silverman
Page 60, Fire News, December 2015
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Nassau County Fire Chiefs Council Ceremonial Unit
The Nassau County Fire Chiefs Council Ceremonial Unit began with an idea among a few members of the Fire Chiefs Council to provide a more dignified, uniform procedure for wakes and funerals within the fire service in Nassau County. In February of 1991 the idea took wings and became a reality due to the untimely passing of Nassau County Fire Service Chaplain, Father Vincent Kennedy. Following Father Kennedy’s wake and funeral other Fire Departments within the county inquired about the Unit and requested our services. The events of September 11, 2001 impacted the volunteer fire service on Long Island tremendously. The Nassau and Suffolk County fire service was overwhelmed with wakes and funerals for our FDNY Firefighters, many of whom were volunteers in their respective communities. Our unit was immediately contacted by both the FDNY Fire Commissioners Office, and the Nassau County Fire Commission to aid in the wakes, funerals and memorials, that would be taking place in both counties. In the time period following we were requested for between eight to 10 wakes and funerals per month, honoring the 343 FDNY brother firefighters lost that day, and for those who are now passing after contracting chronic illnesses associated with 911. Today we respond to the request of the Chief of Department for our services. This includes both Nassau and Suffolk Counties, and the FDNY. In addition, the unit is not only for the deceased members of the Nassau County Fire Chiefs Council. We are also available to any department/company at the request of the Chief of Department, with the permission of the family, for any firefighter whose chief deems it necessary to do so. This frees the chief and his assistant chiefs from the planning for the ceremonial duties of the wake and funeral and gives them the opportunity to concentrate on ministering to the needs of the membership during this time of mourning. It is important to note that the Ceremonial unit does not dictate how a service should be conducted. A representative of the unit meets with the department requesting our service to determine the needs of that department, and how they want the unit to assist them. Members of the unit are then assigned to complete the task requested by the chief. At this time the Unit is comprised of 26 active and former chiefs available to respond to the needs of the requesting Chief of Department. Suggestions when requesting the services of the unit: Early contact by the chief of Department to the numbers provided in the Chiefs signal; The permission of the family is absolutely necessary; A meeting with reps of the unit at least one day – preferably ASAP – before the wake is strongly suggested when possible; We do not dictate, we facilitate, in order to take the wok load off your shoulders and to provide an organized and dignified service to your department with strict regard to the department’s procedures and wishes. - Submitted by ex-Chief Lee Tucholski, ex-Chief Steve Klein, ex-Chief Kevin McElynn, for the Fire Chiefs Council of Nassau County Ceremonial Unit.
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Fire News, December 2015, Page 61
NYS Chiefs Honor Ex-Chief James Feeley Past-President Don Corkery of the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs, (left) presents a 50-Years of Service Award to ex-Chief James Feeley of the Centerport Fire Department. Feeley was recognized for his 50-years of dedicated service as a Firefighter, EMT, Commissioner and serving twice as Chief of the Centerport Fire Department. Feeley also serves as a Suffolk County Deputy Fire Coordinator for Water Rescue (FC-29). “You have served your community, township and county well, and are a true inspiration to the fire service of this state,” said President Corkery. (From left): Don Corkery, James Feeley, Centerport Chief Brian Mark, First Assistant Chief Tom Boyd, and Second Assistant Chief Rich Miltner. - Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
‘Because No One Should Go Hungry’ In memory of Richard Weisse, Sr., Director of the St. James Fire Department Juniors. “Keeping his Spirit Alive.” Another great job by the St. James Juniors. They continue to carry on their annual holiday food drive, in honor of Mr. Weisse. This one was a huge success! All donations were delivered to the Smithtown Food Pantry. - Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
Page 62, Fire News, December 2015
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LI McDonald’s, Nassau and Suffolk County Fire Marshals Team Up for the 29th Annual Fire Safety Program Launch Once again, 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 1, 2015, participants gathered at the Nassau County Firefighters Museum on Charles Lindberg Boulevard in Garden City, where Ronald McDonald 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 are donated by Kidde. Additionally, fire departments visited schools to educate students about fire safety and pass out a worksheet about EDITH (Exit Drills in the Home) and a home “Hazard Hunt.” Children who completed the worksheet were rewarded with a certificate good for a free grilled chicken snack wrap, six-piece Chicken McNuggets, or cheeseburger and a small soft drink, apple juice or low fat chocolate milk from Long Island McDonald's. “Long Island McDonald's is thrilled to once again be partnering with Kidde to highlight the importance of fire safety and we are so thankful for their generosity in donating 250 10-year sealed lithium battery smoke alarms and 50 CO alarms to help protect Long Island families,” says Luciana Montuoro, LI McDonald's Marketing & PR Director. “Kidde is proud to partner with Long Island McDonald's and local fire departments to help raise awareness about fire and carbon monoxide safety. We hope families will take the steps needed to help protect themselves by installing working smoke and CO alarms,” says Chris Rovenstine, vice president, marketing and sales, Kidde. 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 website for the chance to win a smoke detector. 10 lucky winners will be selected. “Fire safety is everyone’s responsibility. It is important that everyone have a fire escape plan in place for your home and at work,” says Suffolk County Fire Marshal Edward Springer. During Fire Prevention Month, Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano and the Nassau County Fire Marshal’s Office urged everyone to make time for fire safety. A moment spent now could make the difference in an emergency. Families should develop and practice a fire safety plan and fire survival strategy along with an exit plan and meeting place outside their home. “Be sure all family members know what to do in the event of a fire, or any emergency that may require you to exit your home quickly. Check your home for fire hazards, correcting them as you do. Install, inspect, and test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in your home. Be fire safe…be fire smart,” says Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano. “No matter what time of the year it is, it is always important for children of all ages to be aware of fire safety and what to do in event of an emergency,” said Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone. “Through this initiative, I encourage all parents and family members to create a family fire escape plan if they haven’t done so already, and to practice it with their children once or twice a year. Fires have the potential to spread rapidly, so it’s important to remember that every second counts.”
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Fire News, December 2015, Page 63
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MOTLEY CREWS OF THE MONTH
Central Islip Fire Department F.E.S. Heavy Rescue Company No.1. - Fire News photo by Steve A. Delamar
Riders Of Fire October 2015 meeting. - Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
Members of the Hicksville Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
The Jericho Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
The Westhampton Beach FD at the Homecoming Bonfire on October 22, 2015. - Fire News photo by Cody Hoyle
Massapequa Ladder 2 on mutual aid to North Massapequa. - Fire News photo by Ed Tuffy
FireNews.com
MOTLEY CREWS OF THE MONTH
Firefighters from the East Meadow Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Firefighters from the Wading River Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Firefighters from the Sound Beach Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Fire News, December 2015, Page 65
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Nassau County Juniors at Muscular Dystrophy Fair The Electrical Welfare Club of the IBEW held their 37th 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): Sergeant at Arms Bryan Sheer and Treasurer Rich Feild helping of the kids on the handline. - Fire News photo by Jerry Presta
Wantagh’s Kathy True Gets FASNY Award On September 18, 2015, in an informal ceremony, President Kathy True of the Wantagh Ladies Auxiliary was awarded a FASNY Lifetime Achievement Award at Wantagh’s Station 1. A reception followed with light refreshments and a cake. (Left, left to right): Commissioner Don Snyder, Commissioner William K. Field IV, President Kathy True, Chief Jim Bloomfield, 1st Assistant Chief Joe Gross, 2nd Assistant Chief Ken Kelly and 3rd Assistant Chief Tom Bloomfield. - Fire News photo by Paul Krussman
FireNews.com
Fire News, December 2015, Page 67
Wantagh Chiefs Honored Ex-chiefs of the Wantagh Fire Department were honored for their dedicated service to the department and the community at the Town of Hempstead Firematic Awards Ceremonies held on October 22, 2015. The ceremony was held to a standing room only house of firefighters, family and friends in Town Hall as Supervisor Kate Murray made the presentations. (Right, left to right): ex-Chief John Gillen, exChief William Allen, Supervisor Kate Murray, exChief George Krant, ex-Chief Bruce Sparke and exChief Jeff Lindgren. - Fire News photo by Harry Loud
Fire Safety at WHB The Westhampton Beach Fire Department used their fire safety trailer at the WHB Elementary School for the week demonstrating to the children how to safely get out of their house if there was a fire, as well as how to deal with several other fire hazards that can be found around the house. - Fire News photo by Cody Hoyle
Page 68, Fire News, December 2015
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Holtsville Juniors Train
Recently, the Holtsville Fire Department’s junior firefighters did a training with different types of saws on wooden pallets. The kids learned how to operate the saws properly, and how important saw safety is. The training was supervised by their advisors, senior firefighters in the department. With several of the junior firefighters reaching the age to soon become probationary members, this training provided some very useful knowledge. - Fire News photos by Bryan Lopez
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Fire News, December 2015, Page 69
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Fire News, December 2015, Page 71
Cooking for Life As I was going through my mail, I came upon a letter from a teacher in Rocky Point. It stated how her class was a big fan of the show, Firehouse Kitchen. Upon reading this I thought, "What would be better than for Firefighter Ray to give her class a visit." I contacted the teacher and told her my idea. She was excited and we set the date! So began my trip to the northeast shore of Long Island. As one drives out this way, you cannot miss the feeling that you are in another place. The landscape goes from the suburbs to a more rural landscaping and it is breath taking. For a moment, I forgot I was only 30 minutes from home! The class, I was visiting, was a life skills class. The main objective in the class is to get them ready for the real world. What is more necessary in the real world than to know how to cook? Therefore, I showed them how to cook a meal. When I got there, they made me feel like a movie star. They were beside themselves with the presence of Firefighter Ray - woo hoo! We went through a little Q&A and then got right to work. I thought chicken skewers would be perfect. did most of the cutting and they did most of the skewering. When they skewers were cooking in the oven, they thought it would be fun to watch an episode of Firehouse Kitchen. They chose to watch the one when I cooked with my wife, Lori. They thought it was funny how she was "busting my chops." Lovely! When the episode was over and the berating stopped, we had a delicious meal with accompanied with many smiles. This life skills class is an important class and brings so much joy to the students involved. A very special thanks to Kyle, Kathleen, Valerie, Joey and Nikki. They are going to do great in life. To find out more about Firehouse Kitchen, or how to become a sponsor, visit to firehousekitchenshow.com.
Ray’s Chicken Skewers 3 pounds of chicken Onions Green peppers Grape tomatoes
Skewer sticks Teriyaki sauce Greek yogurt
Directions Cube up the chicken and soak in teriyaki sauce. Cube up onions and green peppers, onions and tomatoes. Skewer a piece of chicken, a green pepper, an onion and a tomato and continue in that order until skewers are full. Put in oven at 350 degrees for 25 minutes. Let slightly cool before eating. Dip in yogurt sauce and enjoy!
Page 72, Fire News, December 2015
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Data Is Important When thinking about the risk management process, we must have good data to assist us in making a good decision. Whenever one wishes to put together a plan, history must be considered. This historical data must be turned into good information. Many times complete data is not readily available to us. Questions arise as to the strength and limitations of the data. Some data collection processes are in existence today. Some of these are voluntary and some are mandatory. There are different filing requirements for Federal, state, regional and local. Whichever is used, one must be certain that the data can be converted into information. Insurance companies use data all the time and have a wealth of it. Many fire departments and ambulance corps deal with insurance companies all the time. This data can be made available to you for analysis. They include first responder injuries and illness. A summary of the data can be used to identify trends. All emergency service organizations should maintain information relating to the injury, death or illness of their personnel. All incidents involving the organization’s vehicles, equipment and facilities should have a proper procedure for thorough documentation. NFPA 1500, Standard on Fire Department Occupational Safety and Health Programs, and NFPA 1521, Standard on Fire Department Safety Officer, have areas that directly concern data collection and maintenance. The National Fire Protection Association, (NFPA), began an annual study of firefighter fatalities in the United States. According to, Emergency Incident Risk Management, Jonathan Kipp and Murray Loflin Van Nostrand Reinhold (1996), “each year the NFPA also surveys a sample of fire departments in the United States. The sample is carefully selected to represent the various sized populations served by the fire departments. However it is not an actual survey of all departments.� The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is an agency of the Department of Labor. The Public Employees Safety and Health is the enforcement agency of OSHA for public employees. These organizations have lots of data. The National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS) is a standardized format used for reporting fire loss in the United States. All fire departments do not participate. Some of the reason we should keep data is so that we can see trends, and use it to analyze cause and effects. Some data is required by law, due to legal liabilities and a defense against claims. Benchmarking and some medical providers require that certain records be maintained. There are strict guidelines associated with the confidentiality regarding medical and health records. The American Disability Act (ADA) and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, (HIPAA) laws should be considered. The information gathered as a result of the data can be used to prevent future accidents, injuries and illnesses. Trends can be identified early and reversed. Ex-Chief Jeffrey Bailes President Brookhaven Town Safety Officers Assoc. Inc. 631-495-6418
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Deer Park Open House
On October 24, 2015, the Deer Park Fire Department opened up the firehouse to the Deer Park community. Joe Mrozik taught fire safety and how to get out of a burning house safely. EMS personnel Melisssa D’Amato and Jenn Depre did a Q&A on CPR and demonstrated putting a collar on when a person sustains a neck injury, as well as other medical techniques with eighth grader Dan Uhlman (above). - Fire News photos by BTFirePhoto.com
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Fire News, December 2015, Page 75
Jericho Open House
The Jericho Fire Department held its annual fire prevention open house on October 18, 2015. Hundreds from the community came out for food, fun, demonstrations, literature and fire truck rides. - Fire News photos by Kevin Imm
Page 76, Fire News, December 2015
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COMPANY OFFICERS LEADERSHIP TRAINING (COLT) PROGRAM ANNOUNCED NYSAFC is pleased to announce the 2015-2016 Company bers) and $200 per person for non-members. Both pre-registration Officers Leadership Training (COLT) series, which includes pro- and on-site registration will be available for all sites. The two-day COLT program will run on Friday from 9:00 a.m. grams in two new locations. 5:00 p.m. and on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at each The demands on today’s fire officers of all ranks are constantsite. ly increasing. NYSAFC recognizes that leadership develPictured: Lieutenant Tim Klett, FDNY. opment is necessary now to protect the future of the fire service. To meet the need for this critical training, NYSAFC offers the COLT program throughout New York state. For COLT, NYSAFC has brought together a slate of instructors, nationally renowned experts in company officer leadership both on and off the fireground, for an energizing learning experience. Each COLT program will feature the lectures “Company Level Leadership: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly” with Lieutenant Tim Klett, FDNY and “The Fire Officer” with Battalion Chief Daniel A. McMaster, Alexandria (VA) Fire Department. The 2015-2016 COLT series will be held in Orange County (December 4-5, 2015 - Goshen, NY), the Capital District (February 5-6, 2016 - Latham, NY), and Onondaga County (April 8-9, 2016 - East Syracuse, NY). Registration for COLT is $175 per person (for NYSAFC mem-
APPARATUS SYMPOSIUM AND SAFETY FORUM COMBINE IN 2016 In January 2016, the Fire Department Safety Officers Association’s annual Apparatus Specification and Maintenance Symposium and the annual Safety Forum will run concurrently January 18-22, 2016, in Scottsdale, Arizona. The FDSOA 28th Annual Apparatus Specification and Maintenance Symposium will be held January 18-20, while the 2016 Annual Safety Forum will begin January 1819 with two Safety Officer Academies and continue with the Safety Forum conference Wednesday thru Friday, January 22. According to FDSOA’s Executive Director Rich Marrinucci, “The move to a joint conference was based upon a couple of considerations. First, the IAFC Safety, Health and Survival wished to pursue a partnership. Second, there is a natural connection between safety and apparatus.” This is the first time the annual Apparatus Specification and Maintenance Symposium will move from its original location in the Orlando area. In addition, the FDSOA is working in partnership with the IAFC’s Safety Health & Survival Section to host the annual Safety Forum and expand the reach to chiefs and chief officers with current trends and information on firefighter safety. The Apparatus Symposium, co-sponsored by the Fire Apparatus Manufacturers Association and Fire Apparatus magazine, will offer 25 programs focused on emergency vehicles and presented by experts in the fire industry. Programs range from apparatus
specification writing, electronics, and diesel issues to NFPA 2016 highlights and new ambulance standards. The combined events will also feature three of the fire services’ most popular-and sometimes controversial--keynote speakers: • Monday, January 18 - James J. Juneau, Juneau, Boll, Stacy & Ucherek, Dallas, Tx. • Wednesday, January 20 - Gordon Graham, Graham Research Consultants, Long Beach, Ca. • Friday, January 22 - Billy Goldfeder, Deputy Chief, Loveland-Symmes, Oh. The Safety Forum portion of the week will begin with the two-day Incident Safety Officer and the Health and Safety Officer Academies. Dave Dodson and Shadd Whitehead will present the ISO class based on Dodson’s new 3rd Edition of the Incident Safety Officer released August 2015. Stu Rodeffer and Doug Cline will present the HSO Academy. Upon completion of either 16hour academy, attendees will be eligible to take the exam for National Certification onsite either Tuesday or Wednesday evening, or by using an approved local proctor at a later date. Details on registration and complete agendas are available on www.fdsoa.org. For more information regarding the FDSOA Apparatus Symposium and Safety Forum, January 18-22, 2016, contact Rich Marinucci, Executive Director, at fdsoainfo@gmail.com or visit www.fdsoa.org.
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Fire News, December 2015, Page 77
Mianulli Sworn in as Syosset Chief of Dept. Syosset Fire Commissioner Thomas Feeney, Jr., installed Mark ‘Buddy’ Mianulli as the 52nd Chief of the Syosset Fire Department at their 100th Anniversary Inspection and Installation Dinner on September 19, 2015. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
Bethpage FF Honored by Scouts (Left, from left): Scout Joseph Valenti, Jr., with Captain George Rolla at the Bethpage Fire Department’s Memorial Garden at the new Station 5, dedicated to former Firefighter Michael Gubitosi. (Right, from left): Scout Joseph Valenti, Jr., with Tom Gubitosi, the brother of Michael, unveiling the memorial’s plaque. - Fire News photos by John Fitzwilliam, ex-Chief/PIO, Bethpage FD
Page 78, Fire News, December 2015
Trick or Treat!
Cinnabon, an adorable pit bull mix from Northport, got dressed up as a fire engine for Halloween. After running around and greeting neighborhood children, the fire engine ran out of gas and Cinnabon took a well-earned nap! - Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
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Supporting Our Burn Center
Recently, the Fourth Battalion Fire District, comprised of the East Rockaway, Lakeview, Lynbrook, Malverne and Rockville Centre Fire Departments, presented a check in the amount $4900 to the Nassau County Firefighters Burn Center Foundation from a fundraiser held at the Commuters Club in East Rockaway, which was sponsored by the East Rockaway Fire Department. Over the years, the Fourth Battalion has donated nearly $100,000 to the foundation. (Above): Fourth Battalion Chairman ex-Chief John Hennig (Rockville Centre FD), second from right, presents the check to Butch Fisher of the Foundation. Also joining in for the presentation are (left to right), Battalion Treasurer ex-Chief John Mirando (Rockville Centre), ex-Chief James Henshaw (East Rockaway) and chairman of the event, Commuter Club President Mike Carver, Commuter Club Chairman of the Board Bill Cox, and Battalion Secretary ex-Chief Robert Klose (East Rockaway). - Fire News photo by Steve Grogan
Page 80, Fire News, December 2015
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Fire News, December 2015, Page 81
Up Close & Personal
Second Lieutenant Scott Dipino of the Dix Hills Fire Department operating at a recent house fire on Carriage Court in Dix Hills. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
Third Assistant Chief Eric Cook (524-33) of the Ronkonkoma Fire Department operating at a recent Nesconset house fire on Nichols Road. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
Chief Keith Villano of the East Islip Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Richard Stark
Page 82, Fire News, December 2015
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In Memoriam
James ‘Moose’ Bledsoe
December 14, 2005, started out as any other morning for a lot of us. We were at work or getting ready for work or school when the Yaphank Fire Department was activated for a call at one of their member’s homes. Most members went to the scene, while others went to the department to man the ambulance. They knew it was not an ordinary call, it was their assistant chief. Ten short years ago we lost a wonderful husband, an assistant Chief of the Yaphank Fire Department and most of all a true friend. James Bledsoe was a member of the Ridge Fire Department, then joined the Yaphank Fire Department, where he rose to the rank of assistant chief and met his beautiful wife Amy. Since then, Amy has met a wonderful man, has remarried and has two great children McKenna in second grade and Braden in pre-Kindergarten, who as a family talk about James regularly. James’ friends at the fire house gave him the nickname of Moose, not because of his size
but his demeanor; he was always laid back and strong as a moose. James was the kind of person that once you met, he was like family. He had a heart of gold and would lend a hand when needed and never wanted anything in return. He was like a brother and a good friend to a lot of us and an uncle to our children. It’s amazing how time flies. James loved children, especially his nephew Patrick and twins John and Alexis, two of the children who called him Uncle Moose, when he was taken from us unexpectedly at the age of 29. Moose, we think of you today, but that is nothing new, We thought of you yesterday and days before that too. We think of you in silence, we often speak your name. All we have are memories and your picture in a frame. Your memory is a keepsake from which we’ll never part. God has you in his arms, we have you in our hearts. We miss you every day! Until we meet again, rest in peace, brother. - Provided by John DeVito; Ex-Chief; Ridge FD
Page 84, Fire News, December 2015
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