VOLUME XLII, NO. 9
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Since 1973 MAY 2015
Turn to page 12 for the story. -Fire News photo by Ed Coppa
Fire News Welcomes Everyone to the PA Fire Expo. Visit us at Booth 704 North Hall Congrats to Ex-Chief Sid Parkan on 70 Years of Service see page 5
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Fire News, May 2015, Page 3
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In this issue... Fatality, Injuries in Roosevelt Two injured and one dead in a 2-1/2 story house fire battled by nine departments.
See story page 14
Church Burns in Southold A historic North Fork church burns in a nighttime fire. See story page 30
3 FFs Injured in Jericho Blaze An apartment complex blaze causes minor injuries to three Jericho firefighters. See story page 47
3-Car MVA in North Lindenhurst Two of three drivers are injured in a pickup-car-truck accident on New Highway See story page 57
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 Turner, Walker Turner, Alex VanSantvoord, Joe Virgilio, Joe Volpi, Dennis Whittam, Michael Wiwczar, John Wladyka Jr. COLUMNISTS: Bruce Johnson, John Salka, Chief Billy Goldfeder, Bradley Pinsky, Roseann Mariani
Not Your Usual Prom Invite A Sound Beach Junior invites a fellow Junior to the prom during forcible-entry training!
See story page 80
Obit: Hicksville’s Stephen Ocuto 20-year Hicksville member, ex-Captain Stephen Ocuto. See story page 102
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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
Limit Your Chances of Cancer Firefighters have always been proud of their toasted and dirty helmet. This holds true today, too. Years ago, I remember when my father was promoted to lieutenant in the FDNY and proudly placed his burnt and soot covered helmet shield from Engine 233 in the shadow box of our living room. He was proud of his first shield until mom, who didn't know better, took a steel wool pad and cleaned the shield, restoring it to a pristine condition. Yes, dad was quite mad when he came home from work and the bright numbers on the shield drew his attention. Let me ask our seasoned veteran firefighters — would you be mad if this happened to you? It is no secret that I have cancer. Did it come from my 20-plus years in the fire service? If it did, I would be upset if I could have prevented a disease that has changed my life. Yes, I too was one of those firefighters who took pride in my dirty helmet and turnout coat. If you stay current and read about the causes of cancer, you will find articles that link what we do on a daily basis to various strains of the disease. Recently, there has been concern that our hoods, ear flaps, coat wristlets, and turnout coats could be a link to cancer. Do a search for “firefighters hoods - cancer” you will be shocked on how many articles that come up on the subject. Honeywell First Responder Products have a great article on their website about this. The IAFF has another article written by NIOSH linking cancer to our gear. What should you and your department do? Look to organizations like the Firefighter Cancer Support Network. They have suggestions that might help you prevent the dreaded disease of cancer. The types of cancer we are getting are way too many to mention in this editorial. The suspected causes of cancer are many and you, the firefighter, are susceptible to them all. This is no joke and it is not a ‘maybe’ issue. Cancer is reaching our firefighters through what we do and it can be limited by keeping your PPE clean. As you read through Fire News, pay particular attention to our advertisements. A few of our advertisers are offering programs to help keep your gear in a condition that will protect you during a fire and after the fire. If your department does not have a program in place to keep your gear clean, it is time to put one in place. I am sure many of you are proud of your ‘salty’ gear. It is time to change that attitude to one where you are proud that you survived your career without getting cancer. - Dennis
THANK YOU! 91,400 for the likes! (Let’s make it 100,000!)
ANNOUNCEMENTS NAVY SEAL COMING TO LONG ISLAND
Hook and Ladder Company 2 of the Floral Park Fire Department has announced that former US Navy Seal Robert O’Neill, who was part of the Seal Team 6 unit that killed Osama Bin Laden, will present a teamwork and leadership seminar at Hofstra University on Thursday, May 14, 2015 at 2000. Tickets are $50 in advance or $60 at the door. Active military personnel in uniform are only $25. O’Neill is one of our country’s most decorated Navy Seal combat veterans, involved in some of our nation’s most strategic military campaigns. He was deployed more than a dozen times and held leadership roles on over 400 combat missions, including the assault that led to the death of Osama Bin Laden. O’Neill served nearly 17 years and was honorably discharged in August 2012. His military decorations include two Silver Stars, four Bronze Stars with Valor, Joint Service Commendation Medal with Valor, three Presidential Unit citations, and two Navy/USMC Commendations with Valor. According to Hook and Ladder Company 2, this is a fundraiser and donations will be made to Nassau County Firefighters Operation Wounded Warrior, and O’Neill's own charity, Your Grateful Nation, which supports special operations heroes and their families. O’Neill’s presentation on teamwork and leadership can be useful in the fire service, the police department, for military personnel, and also in daily life. This seminar is open to the general public. A question and answer period will be held at the end of the seminar. For tickets and more information, please contact FPFD’s Eric O’Connor at 516-996-4708 or Patricia Luger at 516-376-1255.
NORTH AMERICAN EXTRICATION COMPETITION
The Middle Island Fire Department is holding a North American Extrication Competition. This regional competition includes teams from across the Northeast section of the United States, many of which are teams from local departments. This competition will be held June 5, 6 and 7, 2015, at Middle Island Fire Department Headquarters. We extend a warm invitation to your organization along with your employees. In order to maximize the advantages of this event, we are also requesting donations to assist in making this a success. We will be holding a silent auction to raise monies for our 70th anniversary. Any donation you feel we could use to auction off would be very much appreciated. We are also anticipating having to provide food and refreshments for approximately 80+ competitors per day as well as at our evening fundraiser on Saturday evening that we would be honored if our brothers in other Long Island departments would attend. Please contact me at your earliest convenience to pledge your support and work out the logistics, as there is much work to be done in preparation. You can reach me, Assistant Chief Kenneth Donnelly, either by phone, 631-872-6916 and/or by e-mail kdonnelly272@gmail.com.
APPARATUS PURCHASING COMMITTEE PROGRAM
Firehouse Expo, the East Coast’s premier fire service conference and exhibition is rolling out a new program for fire departments that are planning an apparatus purchase. This program is free to all fire departments going to bid for apparatus and will provide time at Firehouse Expo in Baltimore, MD to have a free breakfast and network with all of the major apparatus manufacturers as well as receive free education and consultation from Firehouse Apparatus editors Ton Shand and Mike Wilbur. This is a great opportunity to spend time not only with manufacturers but also with other departments that are also researching, spec’ing and buying their next apparatus as well as provide ideas and education that will make your next purchase the best and safest product for your mission. If your department has formed its committee and has the funding approved, please contact Jon Rogers, Apparatus Purchasing Committee Program Chairman, to learn more about the program and reserve your free space at Firehouse Expo. Jon can be reached at jon.rogers@firehouse.com or by phone at 847-454-2749. We know that budgets are tight and travel is sometimes difficult, so we’re also offering steep discounts off of conference registrations so that you can maximize your time in Baltimore and offset the cost of travel.
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Sid Parkan Honored for 70 Years of Service
The East Islip Fire Department recently recognized ex-Chief Francis ‘Sid’ Parkan for 70 years of dedicated and outstanding service. At a firehouse celebration held in his honor attended by fellow firefighters, family and friends, Sid was presented with many awards and honors, and received kind words from those who came to pay tribute to a legend and pioneer in the field of fire photography. Sid was the first photographer for Fire News when the newspaper began in 1973, and was instrumental in guiding the paper through its formative years. Sid’s legendary photos documenting countless fires and events filled the pages of Fire News for decades. Sid covered many major fires and incidents that occurred in Suffolk County, including the Entenmann’s Bakery and Patchogue Lace Mill fires, and the Grucci Fireworks explosion. He served as a mentor and teacher to generations of photographers eager to learn photography, and how to develop their own photos in a darkroom. Sid joined the East Islip Fire Department in 1945 and worked his way up the officer’s ranks, serving as lieutenant and captain in the Rescue Squad and Engine Company 2. He then rose through the assistant chief ranks, and was Chief of Department from 1971-1974. Sid is also a longtime Suffolk County Deputy Fire Coordinator for Photography, and was a County Fire Warden prior to the establishment of the Coordinator’s program.
Sid had a long career in law enforcement, serving as a Police Officer in the Town of Islip. When the Islip Town Police were merged into the Suffolk County Police Department in 1960, he was a Criminal Identification Technician for 30 years before retiring in 1990. Sid was also a World War II veteran, serving in the U.S. Army Signal Corps and Medical Corps from 1941 to 1945. - Fire News story and photos by Steve Silverman
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On April 2, 2015, the Central Islip Fire Department was activated for a house fire on Julie Crescent and Lowell Avenue. Upon arrival, heavy smoke and fire was showing. Chief Kevin McAteer requested mutual aid from Islip Terrace, East Islip, Lakeland and Hauppauge, and EMS units from Central Islip-Hauppauge, Exchange Ambulance and East Brentwood. The fire was extin-
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guished several hours later and Town of Islip had the vacant house torn down while crews extinguished the rubble. Several Suffolk County Fire Rescue and Emergency Services Deputy Fire Coordinators were on scene with the Suffolk County Police Arson and Town of Islip Fire Marshals. - Fire News photo by Kevin J. Parkan
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Collapse at Dix Hills House Fire
The Dix Hills Fire Department responded to reports of a house fire and explosion on Seaman Neck Road and Hastings Street on March 31, 2015. Firefighters were confronted with a heavy fire condition from the two-story home. Shortly after arrival, a partial collapse occurred in the rear. Under the command of Chief Robert Fling (operations by Third Assistant Chief Joe Williamson), about 70 firefighters and rescue personnel were on the scene. Mutual aid came from Deer Park, Melville and Wyandanch with standby coverage from Greenlawn, Wyandanch-Wheatley Heights Ambulance and the Huntington Community First Aid Squad. Firefighters were on the scene battling the blaze and overhauling the debris for close to three hours. - Fire News photos by Steve Silverman, Paul Mazza and BTFirePhoto.com
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‘The Volunteer Firefighter’ A New Multiple-Choice Firefighting Adventure Game The piercing tones of a smoke detector shatter the stillness of the night. A car skids on an icy road and smashes into a telephone pole. Acrid black smoke pours and billows from the windows of an office building where people are trapped. What do people do in these nightmare situations? They call for the fire department, of course. And the firefighters respond to the emergency, day or night. But do those who call for help ever really think about what it means to be the firefighters who come to their aid? Can they consider the scenarios of fires and accidents from the perspective of those who respond to these emergencies? Without firsthand experience, this is unlikely, but I aim to change that. My interactive novel puts the reader into the boots of a volunteer firefighter. They start off as a probationary firefighter, and throughout the game they will be offered choices ranging from technical firefighting decisions to balancing career, family, friends, and even romance. The choices they make will affect the plot and outcome of the story. There are a variety of scenes, including structure fires, technical rescues, social events, date nights, and even a fire/rescue convention. I make sure to include some fire safety/prevention tips and pay particular attention to the potential emotional impact of difficult alarms. One of my main reasons for writing a story game on this topic is to increase awareness of the lives and work of such volunteers and maybe even inspire some new recruits. Although not a volunteer firefighter myself, I am the wife of a volunteer fire captain, and I have a longstanding interest in firefighting, critical incident stress, and the remarkable resilience of those who work in emergency services. My wish is
that my story game helps others to better understand and appreciate the duties, sacrifices, and long-standing tradition of volunteer firefighting all this being a lot of fun! I hope you will feel inspired to check it out. “The Volunteer Firefighter” by Stefanie Handshaw is available for download at the iTunes App Store, Google Play, Amazon App Store for Android, and Chrome Web Store, as well as the Hosted Games section of the Choice of Games website (www.choiceofgames.com/ category/user-made-games/).
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Smithtown Car Fire
On March 16, 2015, Smithtown firefighters were toned out for a car fire in the driveway of a house on Marquette Drive. The following units responded, 4-2-31, 4-2-33, 4-2-3, 4-2-4 and 4-2-9. A quick knockdown was accomplished. - Fire News photo by Fred Friedman
Gas Line Break in Wantagh
Wantagh firefighters and Haz-Mat techs responded to a broken gas line on Wantagh Avenue on March 9, 2015. The incident occurred due to snow removal in which the meter was buried, which led to the pipe cracking. PSE&G secured the leak and all units were released. - Fire News photo by Harry Loud
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Dune Road Co-op Destroyed
On April 15, 2015, the Westhampton Beach Fire Department responded to an automatic alarm at the Sandpiper Co-op on Dune Road, a two-story, 54-unit, wood frame oceanfront structure. Arriving units were met with heavy fire involving approximately 30 of the 54 units. Due to the extent of fire and the proximity of the exposures, a defensive operation was ordered. First-due Engine 78-1 deployed a deck pipe and a 2-1/2 inch line to protect the adjoining 54-unit sister building, the Sandcastle, and an above-ground 1000 gallon propane tank. Second-due Engine 7-8-2 deployed a 21/2 inch line to protect the adjacent private dwelling and another propane tank. Tower ladders from East Moriches and Riverhead were requested and placed along the middle of the building to knock down the main body of fire. Additional engines from Eastport, Quogue, Riverhead and Flanders were brought in to augment water supply and for manpower. At the height of the operation, more than 5000 gallons of water per minute were being applied to the building. The Westhampton Ambulance along with numerous mutual aid EMS agencies were on hand providing both on-scene readiness and firefighter rehab. East Quogue handled coverage of Westhampton Beach. The building was a total loss, and the fire was under investigation of the Westhampton Beach Police Department and the Southampton Town Fire Marshal’s Office. - Fire News photos courtesy Westhampton Beach FD and Ed Coppa
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On March 22, 2015, the Kings Park Fire Department responded to a large dumpster fire burning at the rear of a shopping center located on Indian Head Road. Firefighters were able to extinguish the fire quickly and prevent it from extending to the building. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
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Fatality, Injuries at Roosevelt Blaze
On April 3, 2015, the Roosevelt Fire Department was alerted for a house fire with people trapped on Debevoise Avenue. Chief of Department Fennell arrived and encountered a 2-1/2 story house fully involved. Engine 732 and Ladder 735 were the first units on scene. An exterior attack was initiated to try to advance inside but conditions were too dangerous and all members were pulled. Ladder 735 put its master stream into operation along with the deck gun from 732 and a portable deck gun and numerous handlines. It took about two hours to knock down the fire with two people from the house injured after they jumped from the second floor. During overhaul the body of a male was found in a bedroom on the second floor. The cause of the fire was believed to be electrical in nature and there appeared to be no smoke detectors in the house. Mutual aid was provided to the scene and for standby from Hempstead, Uniondale, Baldwin, South Hempstead, Merrick, North Merrick, North Bellmore and Freeport. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza and FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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3 FFs, 2 Civilians Injured in Brentwood Blaze
On March 21, 2015, the Brentwood Fire Department was activated marshal to the scene along with Suffolk County Police Arson Squad. for a residential structure fire on Oriole Place. Upon arrival com- Two occupants of the home along with three firefighters were transmand was met with heavy smoke and fire conditions coming from a ported to Southside Hospital with minor injuries. - Fire News photos by Bryan Lopez and Paul Mazza two-story private dwelling. Mutual aid was requested from Islip, East Brentwood and Hauppauge. Command requested a town fire
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Page 16, Fire News, May 2015
Copiague Car Fire
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On March 20, 2015, the Copiague Fire Department responded to a flames. Chief of Department Campion, Third Assistant Chief Nuzzi car fire in front of an East Clearwater Road home. The driver of the along with Engines 1-3-5, 1-3-9 and Ambulance 1-3-27 responded. vehicle noticed a problem and pulled to the side of the road. The One line was used from 1-3-9 to extinguish the fire. -Fire News photo by Paul Mazza driver and a child exited the vehicle safely before it was engulfed in
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Fire News, May 2015, Page 17
Flames KO’d in Centereach
On March 27, 2015, firefighters from the Centereach Fire Department responded to a basement fire on Dorn Place. With the help of the Selden Fire Department, the fire was quickly knocked down, confining the flames to the basement. It appears that a dryer malfunction might have been the cause of the fire. -Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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On March 18, 2015, members of the East Hampton Fire Department responded to West End Road in the Georgica section of East Hampton for a report of a structure fire. First arriving units found the structure, which was under renovation, heavily involved. Mutual aid came from Montauk, Amagansett, Springs, Sag Harbor, Bridgehampton, Southampton and Hampton Bay; North Sea stood by at the EHFD headquarters. Cold temperatures, a strong wind and water supply challenges made fighting the fire difficult; it was necessary to stretch a five-inch hose nearly a half-mile to establish a water supply. Eventually, heavy equipment was called for to knock over the chimneys and remove debris so that all remaining pockets of fire could be extinguished. The building — which sold in 2008 for $21 million — could not be saved and was a total loss. - Fire News photos by Michael Heller
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Franklin Square Dryer Fire
Honest … The Dog Did It
On March 23, 2015, the Franklin Square Fire Department received a call for a dryer fire. Units arrived to smoke showing. West Hempstead was called for a ladder. A small fire was knocked down, overhauled and fans were set up. - Fire News photo by Bill D’Alessandro
On March 22, 2015, the West Hempstead Fire Department was toned out for a house fire. Crews did a search, opened up and knocked down a small fire. Mutual aid was provided by Hempstead and Franklin Square (standby). It was reported the family dog started the fire by turning on the stove. - Fire News photo by Bill D’Alessandro
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ManhassetLakeville Car Fire March 13, 2015, Manhasset-Lakeville Fire Department Company #2 was dispatched to Aldershot Lane in South Strathmore for a reported vehicle fire next to the house. Engine 8725 was the first unit to respond, followed by Deputy Chief Candan (8704). DC Candan requested Company #1 be added to the initial assignment. Engine 8725 arrived on the scene and reported the structure was not involved. One line was used to extinguish the burning vehicle. Engine 8712 and Quint 8728 also responded. - Fire News story by Kirk Candan; photo by Lee Genser
G’Day in Westbury On March 19, 2015, the Westbury Fire Department responded to a phone alarm for an electrical fire in the kitchen of the Out Back Restaurant on Old Country Road. While units were responding, the automatic alarm also activated. A rubbish fire in a pipe chase caused a heavy smoke condition in the kitchen. The fire was extinguished and no injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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Terryville Car Fire The Terryville Fire Department responded to a car fire in a parking lot on Nesconset Highway near Terryville Road. Engine 1 handled the alarm quickly. The driver who was sitting in the car when the fire erupted was uninjured; the car was a total loss. - Fire News photo by AJ Ryan
Quick Work at Wyandanch Basement Fire The Wyandanch Fire Company was activated for a house fire on South 31st Street on April 2, 2015. First arriving units encountered smoke coming from a single-story house and located the fire in in the basement. Engine 1-10-3 stretched a line into the house and the fire was quickly brought under control and contained to the basement. Chief of Department Brown was in charge of the scene. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
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N. Babylon Commercial Fire
On April 2, 2015, the North Babylon Fire Company was alerted for a building fire at Checkmate Industries on Wyandanch Avenue. Chief of Department Cabano arrived to a smoke condition in the building. Engine 1-8-4 was first due and was followed by Ladder 18-6, which set up on the exposure 4 side. The crew from 1-8-6 went
One Injured in Great Neck Blaze
One person was injured on March 31, 2015, after a fire broke out on the first floor of a house on Steamboat Road in Great Neck. Great Neck firefighters quickly extinguished the blaze. -Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
to the roof and found the fire burning in the roof area on the exposure 1 side. Crews used one line from 1-8-4 to contain the fire to a small area. The Wyandanch Fire Company was requested to the scene, while units from Deer Park, Bay Shore and West Islip stood by at North Babylon. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
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Holbrook Car Fire
On March 30, 2015, the Holbrook Fire Department responded to a car fire on Blue Point Road West at the Greenbelt Parkway. Engine 5 was first on scene to make the quick knock down. There were no injuries. - Fire News photos by Cameron Wilken and Bryan Lopez
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Central Islip Structure Fire On March 19, 2015, the Central Islip Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire on Wilson Boulevard. Upon arrival of the first-due Engine 3-7-3, a working fire was transmitted by Captain Robert C. Miller. Command was established by Chief of Department Kevin McAteer, Jr., with fire showing from the second floor windows. The crew made an aggressive interior attack and contained the fire to the second floor. Second-due Engine 3-7-4 assisted in water supply while Trucks 3-7-5 and 3-7-6 opened up. Mutual aid was provided at the scene by Islip Terrace; Hauppauge covered for the duration. - Fire News story by Chief Kevin McAteer, Jr.; photo by Rich Stark
Quick Work in Deer Park On March 19, 2015, the Deer Park Fire Department responded to a fire on Albany Street. Upon arriving, Chief 1-4-32 Phil Scarfi had smoke showing. There was fire on the first and second floors of a two-story private dwelling and the fire had burned through the back wall of the house. It was quickly knocked down. - Fire News photo by BTFirePhoto.com
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Collyers’ Mansion Conditions in Dix Hills Blaze
Just after midnight on March 23, 2015, the Dix Hills Fire Department was activated for a house fire on Seaman Neck Road. Initial reports were people possibly trapped. As units were responding additional information came that people were unable to escape a rear deck. Suffolk County Police arrived and were able to remove the wheelchair bound residents from the deck. Chief of Department Fling and First Assistant Chief Napolitano arrived and had a heavy fire condition in the basement of the single-story home. Engine 2-82 was first due and its crew stretched multiple lines into the building as additional units arrived. As the lines were advanced, the
crews encountered Collyers’ Mansion conditions and with fire showing on the exposure 4 side the decision was made to pull the members out of the basement. An exterior attack was put into place and the fire was knocked down so members could go back into an interior attack. It took about 90 minutes to bring the fire under control with no reported injuries. Mutual aid was provided to the scene by Deer Park, Melville and Greenlawn. Huntington Manor and Greenlawn also stood by at Dix Hills headquarters. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
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2 FFs Injured in East Farmingdale Commercial Blaze
On March 17, 2015, the East Farmingdale Fire Company was activated for an automatic alarm at A&S Apron and Coat Supply Co. First arriving units made entry into the building and had a light smoke condition. Engines 1-5-2, 1-5-6, Engine 1-5-1, Ladders 1-5-5, 1-5-15 Heavy Rescue 1-5-4 and multiple ambulances and fire police units responded. With First Assistant Chief Joseph in command and Second and Third Assistant Chiefs Iuzzini and Welliver handling the fire attack, a working fire was transmitted as crews started to open up and begin an interior attack. Mutual aid requests went to South Farmingdale, Farmingdale, North Lindenhurst and North Amityville. Although an aggressive attack was being made, conditions deteriorated and all members were pulled as fire went through the roof causing it to collapse. Three ladders and multiple handlines were used to fight the fire and bring it under control in about four hours with the building a complete loss and neighboring auto body shop suffering water and smoke damage. West Babylon sent an engine to the scene to relieve crews. Two firefighters were transported to the hospital with minor injuries and later released. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
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Church Burns in Southold On March 14, 2015, a nighttime fire destroyed a historic Southold church. Southold Town Police Officer Robert Haas was on patrol when he saw that First Universalist Church on Route 25 in flames. The Southold Fire Department, along with other area departments, responded and extinguished the blaze. The Suffolk County Police Arson Squad responded to the scene to assist in the investigation. Mutual aid came from Greenport, Mattituck, East Marion and Cutchogue. - Fire News photo by Andrew Miller
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Fire News, May 2015, Page 33
N. Massapequa House Fire On March 11, 2015, the North Massapequa Fire Department responded to a house fire on North Atlanta Avenue. A box truck parked in the driveway was damaged and an SUV destroyed as the fire extended to it and then spread into the home’s basement, first floor and attic on exposure 2 and 3. Mutual aid came from Bethpage, Wantagh, Farmingdale, Massapequa, South Farmingdale and Seaford. The Nassau County Fire Marshal responded with a Haz-Mat truck along with Wantagh Fire Department Haz-Mat set up a burn-off kit to handle two propane cylinders. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
North Babylon Basement Fire On March 7, 2015,the North Babylon Fire Company was alerted for a house fire on Lake Way Drive. First arriving units had smoke showing from the home. Chief of Department Cabano arrived and transmitted a working fire. Engine 1-8-4 was first due and stretched two lines into the house. The crew from Ladder 1-8-6 searched and vented the house with all searches negative. The fire was located in the basement and was quickly extinguished and contained there. Mutual aid was provided to the scene by the Wyandanch, while units from Deer Park and West Islip stood by at North Babylon headquarters. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Page 34, Fire News, May 2015
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Brentwood Structure Fire
On March 14, 2015, Firecom notified the Brentwood Fire Department of a structure fire on Duke Street. With Second Assistant Chief Michael Derybshire in charge, three lines were stretched. Despite the inclement weather, the fire was extinguished in short order with no reported injuries. Mutual aid came from Bay Shore, Deer Park, West Islip, East Brentwood (cover), Brentwood Legion Ambulance, Exchange Ambulance of the Islips and Central Islip-Hauppauge Ambulance. - Fire News photos by Richard Stark and Paul Mazza
Classic ’Vette Saved in Farmingdale On March 17, 2015, the Farmingdale Fire Department responded to a garage fire on Grant Avenue. First arriving units found a two-car detached garage with heavy smoke showing. The fire, which was being fanned by high winds, began to show from the windows as firefighters began their attack. Squad 924 was first due and put two lines into operation while the crew of Ladder 926 laddered and vented the building. During the operation firefighters were able to remove a classic Corvette from the garage with no apparent damage. Mutual aid was provide by East Farmingdale, Bethpage, South Farmingdale and North Farmingdale. Chief of Department P. Tortoso was in charge of the scene. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Shopping Center Fire in North Patchogue In the early morning of April 1, 2015, the North Patchogue Fire Department was activated for an automatic fire alarm in a shopping center off the Sunrise Highway service road. Upon arrival, commanding chiefs found an active fire to the rear of a laundromat. A working fire was transmitted and mutual aid was requested from Blue Point for an engine. The fire was quickly knocked down and placed under control. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
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Fire News, May 2015, Page 35
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Page 36, Fire News, May 2015
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House Fire in Dix Hills
The Dix Hills Fire Department activated for a house fire with an occupant trapped on Kenmore Street on April 4, 2015. Suffolk County Police were on scene confirming a fire in the rear of the house and an occupant trapped in a rear bedroom. Quint 2-8-8 put two lines into operation as there was heavy fire showing from the exposure 3 side. Firefighters advanced into the house and removed the unidentified male victim with CPR in progress and transported him to Good Samaritan Hospital in critical condition. The fire took about 40 minutes to bring under control with a firefighter suffering a minor injury. Mutual aid came from Deer Park, Greenlawn, Melville, Huntington Manor, Commack, North Babylon and East Northport along with the Brentwood Legion and WyandanchWheatley Heights Ambulance Corps. Chief of Department Fling was in charge of the scene. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza and Steve Silverman
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Fire News, May 2015, Page 37
Brush Fire in Hagerman On April 4, 2015, the Hagerman Fire Department was activated for a brush fire in a wooded area at the end of Hampton Avenue. Upon arrival Hagerman command found a fire burning a quarter-mile off a narrow trail. Mutual aid was requested from Bellport for two brush trucks to the scene. The fire was quickly knocked down and placed under control by command. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Car Fire in Mastic On March 29, 2015, the Mastic Fire Department responded to a car fire in the Kohl’s shopping center parking lot. Chief Rudy Sunderman was first on scene. Suffolk County Police were also on scene. - Fire News photo by Jim Rugen
631-661-7515 www.CoastalFireSystems.com
Page 38, Fire News, May 2015
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Huntington Commercial Blaze
The Huntington Fire Department responded to multiple reports of smoke in the vicinity of New Street South of Main Street in Huntington Village on March 16, 2015. Firefighters located the fire in the rear of a laundromat. Huntington was assisted by the Halesite, Huntington Manor, Cold Spring Harbor, Centerport and the Huntington Community First Aid Squad; Greenlawn provided standby at Huntington’s quarters. About 80 firefighters battled the blaze using 12 pieces of apparatus and had the fire knocked-down within a half hour, under the command of Chief Robert Berry, with operations by Deputy Chiefs Jesse Cukro and Brian Keane. - Fire News photos by Steve Silverman
Page 40, Fire News, May 2015
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Elevator Explosion in Holbrook
On April 4, 2015, the Holbrook Fire Department responded to University Medical Center. PSEG was requested to cut power to the Waverly Avenue for the report of an explosion with a victim. Units building. Mutual aid was requested from Holtsville, North - Fire News photo by David Rubin arrived to additional explosions within an elevator shaft. The burn Patchogue and Bohemia. victim was transported via Holbrook Ambulance to Stony Brook
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Fire News, May 2015, Page 41
West Islip Structure Fire
The West Islip Fire Department was alerted to a building fire on March 13, 2015, by a first responder who was traveling on Union Boulevard near Chestnut Street. The fire was located in an auto body shop on Prospect Avenue and Chestnut Street, about a half a block from West Islip Headquarters. Engine 3-17-7 was first due and had fire showing from the office area of the building on the exposure one side. Ladder 3-17-4 set up behind the engine and put it's bucket to the roof so it's crew could check for extension and vent. Two lines were put into operation and the fire was brought under control in about 30 minutes and contained to the office area. Mutual aid was provided to the scene by the Bay Shore Fire Department for RIT, The Babylon Fire Department for an engine, East Islip for an additional ladder, West Babylon and Lindenhurst for ambulances. The cause of the fire was under investigation. Chief of Department Gemellaro was in charge of the operation. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza and Richard Stark
Page 42, Fire News, May 2015
Helping a Hero
Fire News thanks the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Tower Foundation for allowing us to partner in this first-time project to honor our fallen brother, Chief Joseph Sanford, Jr., by standing by his widow to help her financially so that her home will not be a financial burden to her during this difficult time. The August 4, 2015. Yankee-Boston game
will honor Chief Joseph Sanford, Jr., and raise money to help pay off the mortgage on his family home. We will be working with all departments, particularly on Long Island, to coordinate efforts to sell this game out! Fire News thanks the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Tower Foundation, the New York Yankees, the Inwood Fire Department, the Bank of
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America and the Long Island fire services. The real experience of being a firefighter is the brotherhood, the comaraderie, and the family that you earn through the flames, the smoke and the soot. Now is the chance for the fire service to show this. We look forward to working with everyone to honor the memory of our fallen brother Chief Joseph Sanford, Jr.
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Fire News, May 2015, Page 43
Page 44, Fire News, May 2015
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Bohemia Restaurant Blaze
On March 22, 2015, the Bohemia Fire Department was activated for a commercial structure fire at a Chinese restaurant located on Veterans Memorial Highway. Mutual aid was requested from Holbrook, Lakeland, Sayville, West Sayville and Bayport. - Fire News photos by Bryan Lopez and David Rubin
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Roslyn House Fire The Roslyn Fire Department transmitted a working fire for a blaze in the rear of a private dwelling on Revere Road on March 21, 2015. One firefighter suffered a minor injury at the scene. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Fire News, May 2015, Page 45
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2 FFs Injured at Selden House Fire
On April 7, 2015, the Selden Fire Department responded for a reported structure fire. Initial reports were there was fire in the walls. Selden command requested mutual aid from Centereach, Farmingville, Setauket, Terryville and Gordon Heights. Two firefighters were transported to an area hospital, one injured his hand and the other with chest pain. - Fire New photos by David Rubin
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3 FF Injured at Apt. Blaze
The Jericho Fire Department was alerted for a fire at the Westwood Village Apartment Complex on Brush Hollow Road, on April 4, 2015. The initial call went to the Westbury Fire Department, which had units returning from a previous alarm and responded with an engine and First Assistant Chief Bartunek. There was heavy fire already through the roof of several units, being wind driven through the cockloft upon the arrival of the first units. The fire destroyed or damaged 12 of the 16 units in the building and displaced over 30 people. Mutual aid was requested from 15 surrounding departments to the scene and for stand by. It took over an hour to bring the fire under control with three firefighters suffering minor injuries. The cause of the fire is under investigation. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
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Suspected Arson in Copiague The Copiague Fire Department was called to a car fire in the rear of an Oak Street business on March 14, 2015. Chief of Department Campion and Assistant Chiefs Fitch and Rosenberg arrived to find a car fully involved. Engine 1-3-5, Ladder 1-3-4, Utility Truck 1-3-6 and Ambulance 1-3-1 responded. The fire was considered suspicious and was under investigation by the Suffolk County Police Arson Squad. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Quick Job in Elmont The Elmont Fire Department operated at a house fire on Elzey Avenue on March 21, 2015. The fire required only one line and was quickly knocked down. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Fire News, May 2015, Page 49
2 Escape Floral Park Blaze
Two residents were able to escape to safety after a raging fire broke out on the second floor of their home on Crocus Avenue in Floral Park on the evening of March 9, 2015. The Floral Park Fire Department was quickly on the scene to extinguish the blaze. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Lucky Car Owner The Syosset Fire Department responded to a car fire in the driveway of a Cambria Road home on March 9, 2015. Luckily for the resident, a neighbor who is a Syosset firefighter, was able to extinguish most of the fire, which appeared to have started in the passenger area. Engine 585 arrived shortly and stretched a 1-3/4 inch line to overhaul the vehicle. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
North Merrick Battles Car Fire Early on February 8, 2015, the North Merrick Fire Department responded to the report of a car fire. Chief James Rogers arrived on scene and transmitted a working car fire. Engine 672 was first due and the fire was reported under control in a few minutes. - Fire News photo by Jason Truglio
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Fire News, May 2015, Page 51
Chimney Fire in Nesconset
Fireplace Fire in E. Rockaway
Recently, the Nesconset Fire Department was toned out for a chimney fire on Alexander Avenue. Under the command of Chief 31 James Keane the fire was quickly extinguished. Mutual aid from Ronkonkoma and St. James was also on scene. No injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
Firefighters from the East Rockaway Fire Department fought a working fire in a private dwelling on February 1, 2015. The fire originated in the area surrounding the fireplace and spread to the adjoining exterior wall. Mutual aid companies were on the scene to assist. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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EMS ACROSS THE ISLAND
MVA Through Fence Near Schools On March 22, 2015, the Dix Hills Fire Department responded to an MVA after a car crashed through a chain-link fence on Wolf Hill Road at Melrose Road, near Half Hollow Hills High School West and Signal Hill Elementary School. Under the command of Chief Robert Fling and Third Assistant Chief Joe Williamson, an ambulance, heavy rescue and paramedic responder were dispatched to the scene. The driver of the car declined medical assistance. - Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
Elevator Shaft Fall On March 7, 2015, the Bethpage Fire Department responded to the Steel Equities property on South Oyster Bay Road for a report of a man down an elevator shaft. Arriving units found a man had fallen 20 feet from an I-beam and was accessible. He was transported to NUMC by NCPD Ambulance. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
MVA on the WSP Wantagh Fire Department medics from Rescue 1 removed an injured man to an awaiting ambulance, after the car struck a divider on the Wantagh State Parkway on April 6, 2015. The driver, along with a female passenger, were transported by Wantagh Rescue 1 and a Nassau County Police ambulance. - Fire News photo by Harry Loud
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MVA in Plainview On April 6, 2015, the Plainview Fire Department was alerted for a reported car into a pole with entrapment on Old Country Road in front of the Main Event. Arriving crews found no pin, but a driver that had suffered a medical emergency and struck a gas station sign. He was transported to a local hospital. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
Lakeview MVA The Lakeview Fire Department responded to an MVA with overturn on March 22, 2015, at Rhodes Lane. Two occupants of the vehicle were injured and transported to area hospitals. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Fire News, May 2015, Page 57
3-Car MVA Injures 2
The North Lindenhurst Fire Department was alerted for an MVA with entrapment at New Highway and New Horizons Boulevard on March 19, 2015. First Assistant Chief Newman was first on the scene to find three vehicles involved in the collision with two people trapped in separate vehicles. A pickup struck a coffee truck causing the pickup to spin, which was then hit by a car. The crew from
Heavy Rescue 1-11-5 put multiple tools into operation to extricate the drivers of the car and pickup. The crew from Engine 1-11-1 stretched a precautionary line. The injured drivers were taken to Good Samaritan Hospital by Ambulances 1-11-6 and 1-11-7. Chief of Department Baranowski was in charge. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Page 58, Fire News, May 2015
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Car vs. House in Holbrook
Lights Out in Hempstead MVA
On March 24, 2015, the Holbrook Fire Department was activated for an MVA for a reported car into a house. Unit 3-15-81 was first on scene and reported the car jumped the curb and hit the bushes and the front window. The driver was not injured. Islip Town was requested to check the building. - Fire New photo by David Rubin
A portion of the Village of Hempstead was without power early on March 21, 2015, after a car sheared a utility pole at its base along Jerusalem Avenue near Searing Street. After the vehicle took down the pole, which was left dangling by its wires, it smashed into a parked car. Hempstead fire units were on the scene. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Fire News, May 2015, Page 59
Drill Season is Soon to Begin
As with many departments, fire department competitions are a family tradition. In the p h o t o s i s Wa l t e r Ki en l e , a 63-year member of the Lindenhurst Fire Department and Snails Drill Team. Also pictured is Roger Kienle, Walter Kienle’s son with his son, Kevin Kienle. In the words of Track Announcer Bill Rowse, “Gentleman, start your sneakers!” The 2015 Drill Team season is about to begin. We hope to see everyone at the Lindenhurst Invitational Drill o n J u n e 6 . Vi s i t n y s d r i l l teams.x9494.com/ for the 2015 Drill Team schedule. - Fire News photos courtesy of Walter Kienle
Page 60, Fire News, May 2015
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Commack Road Pileup Injures 3 The Dix Hills Fire Department responded to an MVA involving a box truck and three cars on Commack Road and Pine Hill Lane on March 30, 2015. About 20 firefighters and rescue personnel were on the scene with two heavy rescue trucks, an engine, three ambulances and paramedic unit under the command of Captain Karl Krage. Three occupants suffered injuries, with one airlifted to Stony Brook University Hospital by Suffolk Police medevac. The remaining two were transported to Good Samaritan Hospital by the Dix Hills Rescue Squad. The Greenlawn Fire Department assisted with a standby ambulance during the alarm. - Fire News photo courtesy Dix Hills FD
Melville Responds to NSP MVA On April 2, 2015, the Melville Fire Department was dispatched to a crash on the Northern State Parkway where a car ran off the road and slammed into a tree west of Route 110. Under the command of Second Assistant Chief Paul Mahler, about 15 firefighters and rescue personnel were on the scene with an ambulance, two heavy rescue trucks, and a paramedic responder unit. The male patient suffered traumatic injuries and was transported to the Nassau University Medical Center by the Melville Rescue Squad. - Fire News story by Steve Silverman; photo by Jim Milazzo
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Fire News, May 2015, Page 61
MVA in Medford
On April 7, 2015, the Medford Fire Department was activated for an MVA with heavy rescue for a car into a pole on Granny Road. Upon arrival, Chief 5-14-30 advised incoming units of a heavily pinned driver. The crew of Rescue 15 worked swiftly to extricate the person, removing the driver and rear passenger doors of the vehicle. The driver was transported to a nearby medical facility via Medford Ambulance. - Fire News photos by Bryan Lopez and Amanda Coffey
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Page 62, Fire News, May 2015
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Car Into Tree in Pt. Jefferson On March 26, 2015, Suffolk County Police and Port Jefferson Fire Department were alerted for an MVA at Crystal Brook Hollow and Old Post Roads. Upon arrival of Chief of Department Dave Williams, he confirmed one occupant of an SUV trapped. The SUV had driven head on into a tree. Firefighters extricated the passenger after removing the front passenger door. Port Jefferson Volunteer Ambulance was on scene and transported the victim to John T. Mather Memorial Hospital in Port Jefferson. - Fire News photo by Andrew Tetreault
2 Injured in Deer Park MVA Recently, the Deer Park Fire Department responded to an MVA with a car into a pole. The pole snapped at the bottom and personnel had to deal with low live wires as well and tough visibility due to heavy fog. There were two people in the car — driver and a child — who were transported to the local hospital. - Fire News photo by BTFirePhoto.com
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Fire News, May 2015, Page 63
Hot Wires in Wantagh MVA
Wantagh Fire Department responded to a truck into pole on North Jerusalem Road on April 6, 2015. (Above): Safety Officer Bill Gilmor checks for power with a ‘Hot-Stick’ after the collision dropped the wires into the street. - Fire News photos by Harry Loud
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MVA in Farmingville On March 16, 2015, the Farmingville Fire Department was called to an MVA on Portion Road. A car hit a parked car and rolled. The driver was taken to a local hospital with nonlife threatening injuries. - Fire News photo by AJ Ryan
Selden MVA On April 4, 2015, the Selden Fire Department responded to a two-car MVA at Middle Country Road and Rosemary Lane. Units arrived to find a passenger trapped and needing to have the door popped to be able to exit. Two people were transported to an area hospital. - Fire New photo by David Rubin
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Fire News, May 2015, Page 65
Safety Officer at a Hazmat Situation It is very easy for Incident Safety Officers (ISO) to find themselves at a hazmat scene. In fact, according to the federal regulation 29 1910 CFRS.120 Hazardous Waste Operations & Emergency Response Solutions, an ISO at a hazmat technician level type scene is not an option, it is required by law. Where there is law there is liability. What do you do? What are your options? Let’s first remember the scene responsibility is that of the Incident Commander(IC). You, as the ISO, are there to support the IC and assure the safety of the first responders, which also is the responsibility of the IC. If you are not a hazmat technician level, you must get one. This can be done through your county coordinator who has the information of where to find an Assistant Hazmat Safety Officer (ASO-HM). This officer reports to the ISO and the Hazmat Group Supervisor (if there is one) on scene. The technician must meet or exceed NFPA 472 Standard for Professional Competence for Responders to Hazardous Materials Incidents. If the ISO meets this standard, the ISO can act as the ASO-HM. If the ISO does not meet this standard, that is when the ISO should let the IC know an ASO-HM is required on-scene. When an ASO-HM is appointed the ISO retains the overhead safety function responsibilities. The ASO-HM reports to the ISO. The ISO should be very well familiar with NFPA 471 Recommended Practices for Responding to Hazardous Material Incidents. The ISO and ASO-HM may be required to sign off on the
many plans that have been implemented including evacuation, incident action, exposure action, etc. plans, to name a few. Accountability, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) rehabilitation, and zoning issues are all part of the ISO safety plan. A contamination reduction zone must be established. This is an area where decontamination can take place and is a safe refuge area for anyone who was involved with the hazardous material or has been in the Immediate Dangerous to Life and Health (IDLH) area. Initially, rescues must take place to remove any victims from the hazardous area. Once this is done the victims and first responders involved in
the incident must be isolated, cleaned and de-contaminated. Things will happen very fast, and many things must be addressed immediately. With the support of additional personnel all things will be accomplished. Due to the liabilities and complex nature involved with hazmat conditions, the hazmat incident requires specialized training. If at a building that has a hazmat specialist be sure to make use of them. The ASO-HM will work with that person and report to the IC and ISO. Ex-Chief Jeff Bailes, President Brookhaven Town Safety Officers Association, Inc. www.btsoa.org - 631-495-6418
FASNY Health & Wellness Resource for FFs The Firemen’s Association of the State of New York (FASNY) believes “A Healthy Firefighter Is Everyone’s Fight.” In an effort to bring attention to the vital issue of wellness for first responders, FASNY has created an accessible resource to address critical issues firefighters can face. Rooted in FASNY’s main website, the Health and Wellness page provides information about heart conditions, mental health, after-trauma care, wellness benefits, and a host of other issues that affect FASNY members. The Health and Wellness page gathers the information in a central database, making it easy for firefighters, their families, and departments to locate. “Becoming educated in health and wellness are critical steps for firefighters to take to ensure their own personal safety when responding to emergencies. This FASNY resource is important not only for individual firefighters but also valuable for their departments and loved ones to utilize,” according to FASNY President Robert McConville. For FASNY’s Health and Wellness resources at your fingertips please visit: www.fasny.com/category/wellness/.
Page 66, Fire News, May 2015
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Terryville MVA
On March 30, 2015, the Terryville Fire Department was alerted for removed the passenger side front door of the vehicle. The victim was an MVA at the intersection of Route 347 and Terryville Road. Upon removed by EMS and transported to a local hospital with unknown - Fire News photo by Andrew Tetreault arrival it was determined one person had to be extricated. injuries. Firefighters from Company # 1, with assistance from Company #3,
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Fire News, May 2015, Page 67
Firehouse Kitchen By Ray Cooney While attending the Long Island Fire Rescue and EMS Mega Show, I came across a table that supported the Terry Farrell Fund. Amongst New York City firefighters, Terry Farrell is well-known. He was a Rescue 4 FDNY firefighter that lost his life on 9/11. Being a 9/11 firefighter myself, this really hit home. I agreed to go to the Dix Hill Fire Department (Terry Farrell’s volunteer department) and cook with FDNY/EMS Firefighter Tom Russo. When we began cooking, Tom was quiet. I had to try and pull the words out of him by making jokes about the “rivalry” between the firefighters and EMS workers on the FDNY. I commented that I believe the EMS is a really hard job. You are dealing with people that are sick and that sometimes get sick all over you! Tom laughed and came out of his shell. He was making short ribs with risotto and a bread pudding desert. We made ribs on a few previous episodes, so let’s focus on the desert. I had no idea how easy it was to make bread pudding. But this was special bread pudding - it had a bourbon sauce. The episode started with us making the desert first because it takes time to bake in the oven. One thing I will say about bread pudding, it’s definitely not for someone on a diet. The recipe begins with two loaves of bread and heavy cream mixed together using your hands (just like my Blue Glove Tuna). Of course, sugar and vanilla extract (plus other items) are added to enhance the flavor. One spoonful of this heavenly desert is enough to set anyone back a month on their diet! After the pudding is baked, butter and bourbon are mixed together, while heating in a saucepan, to form a syrup, which is poured over the pudding. The meal we made was delicious. The ribs fell right off the bone, the risotto was al dente and the bread pudding was everything I thought it would be. I had too much and wound up ‘vegging out’ on their couch for half an hour. To find out about the Terry Farrell fund, visit terryfarrellfund.org. To find out more about Firehouse Kitchen, visit firehousekitchenshow.com. To view episodes of Firehouse Kitchen, go to foodytv.com or watch us on NYC TV, channel 25 Fios or channel 22 Optimum.
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BREAD PUDDING WITH BOURBON SAUCE 2 loaves of cubed bread 1 quart of heavy cream 2 tsp. vanilla extract 1 egg 3 sticks of butter 1 cup of sugar 1/4 cup Bourbon Mix bread, cream, vanilla extract and egg in mixing bowl. Place blended ingredients into a greased baking pan. Bake for 45 minutes at 350 degrees. Then mix butter, sugar and bourbon in a sauce pan, over low heat, until it becomes a syrup consistency. When pudding is baked, pour syrup over top of pudding and enjoy!
Page 68, Fire News, May 2015
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Wantagh MVA On March 27, 2015, Wantagh firefighters responded to a two-car accident at the intersection of North Jerusalem Road and Gardiners Avenue in Levittown. Both drivers were removed to NUMC by the Wantagh/Levittown Ambulance Corp. - Fire News photo by Harry Loud
Train Derailment in Wyandanch On March 30, 2015, a Long Island Rail Road freight train derailed just west of the Wyandanch train station. The freight car was carrying wood and interrupted service on the Ronkonkoma line for several days. - Fire News photo by BTFirePhoto.com
Overturned Truck in Melville On April 1, 2015, the Melville Fire Department responded to an overturned asphalt truck off of Spagnoli Road west of Broad Hollow Road. Upon units arrival, the driver was out of the vehicle. Melville paramedics team treated and transported the driver to Nassau County Medical Center for multiple injuries. - Fire News photo by Tom Pesce
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Fire News, May 2015, Page 69
Fatalities in Ronkonkoma MVA
The Ronkonkoma Fire Department responded for an MVA with Avenues with the drive DOS. The passenger was transported to a heavy rescue in the early morning hours of March 21, 2015. The sin- local hospital and later succumbed to his injuries as well. - Fire News photo by Cameron Wilken gle-car accident occurred at the intersection of Union and Maple
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Farmingville MVA On March 16, 2015, the Farmingville Fire Department was activated for an MVA on Portion Road west of the Kmart shopping center. Upon arrival chief Allen Licata found a single-car MVA off the road and onto a sidewalk. Witnesses say the driver was heading east on Portion Road when she hit a parked car and lost control. The patient was self extricated but transported to Stony Brook University Hospital via a Farmingville ambulance for her injuries. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Serious MVA in Ronkonkoma On March 17, 2015, the Ronkonkoma Fire Department was activated for an MVA with reported heavy rescue at the intersection of Hawkins and Terry Avenues. A chief from the Setauket Fire Department was the first unit on scene and advised Ronkonkoma dispatch that the driver was heavily pinned with the vehicle into a utility pole. The crew from Rescue 8 quickly arrived on scene and extricated the driver by removing the roof of the car. A Suffolk County Police medevac was requested but the flight medic determined the patient was too unstable to fly. The driver was transported to Stony Brook University Hospital via a Ronkonkoma ambulance in critical condition. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Into 2 Cars, 1 Bldg. in Garden City An SUV plowed into two parked cars and then the side of an apartment house on Hamilton Place in Garden City early on April 2, 2015. No one was injured in the crash. Garden City’s new Heavy Rescue 146 was on the scene. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
4 Injured in E. Farmingdale MVA East Farmingdale responded to a person being trapped under a minivan on March 19, 2015, after going through the plate glass windows on the east side of a building. Chief Joe Wisz was in charge. Units from all stations responded along with Melville, North Lindenhurst and West Babylon for additional rescue units. Heavy rescue unit 1-5-4 from East Farmingdale used air bags to raise the minivan off a pinned woman. The woman was transported to Stony Brook University Hospital by Suffolk PD helicopter and another woman was transported to Good Samaritan Hospital. Both of the injured were nurses. The driver and passenger of the vehicle were transported to Nassau University Medical Center. - Fire News photo by John Welter
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Car into Building
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On March 19, 2015, the Setauket Fire Department was called to a cular to the outer wall had been displaced by 3 to 6 inches. Cracks vehicle into building rescue involving an SUV into the building on were apparent in several sheet rock wall locations inside. Two people Research Way in Setauket. The car came to rest about a foot from the were examined and transported. - Fire News photo by Robert O’Rourk wall. The wall was depressed inward and the brick front heavily damage. The interior damage appeared to indicate that a wall perpendi-
Southampton MVA On March 14, 2015, the Southampton Fire Department along with the Southampton Village Volunteer Ambulance (SVVA) was called to a MVA on Halsey Neck and Meadow Lanes. Units arrived to find a small vehicle wrapped around a tree. The driver was in critical condition and was removed through the passenger door. The injured were transported to Southampton Hospital by SVVA. Southampton Chief Mike Kampf and SVVA Chief Ricky Fowler were in charge of their respective departments. - Fire News story by Chris Brenner 1st AC, SFD; photo by Southampton Village EMS.
MVA Discovered in Southampton Recently, the Southampton Fire Department came upon an MVA while out training. Southampton Village Volunteer Ambulance (SVVA) was activated for multiple people injured; four were involved. One was medevac’d to Stony Brook University Hospital. Two were transported to Southampton Hospital, and one was evaluated and refused medical assistance. SVVA was under the command of Chief Rick Fowler and Southampton FD was under the command of 2nd Assistant Chief Tony Stevens. - Fire News photo by Chris Brenner
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Lindenhurst Donates to Burn Center Since 2003 the Lindenhurst Fire Department has donated over $23,000 to the Suffolk County Volunteer Firefighters Burn Center at Stony Brook University Hospital. Donations are collected during the holiday season, with help from the Village of Lindenhurst, residents, the Chamber of Commerce, the seniors at the Rainbow Center, and separate fire companies. The department matches the fund that are collected. Central to the fundraiser is “Santa in the Park” at the gazebo for the community and a six-foot Christmas stocking stuffed with presents and delivered by Santa aboard the fire truck on Christmas Eve to a lucky child. The stocking is donated by the LFD Chiefs’ Office. The Lindenhurst Fire Department is proud to partner with the burn center, and encourages the village residents to install smoke detectors, change the batteries, and practice proper fire prevention. The Suffolk County Volunteer Firefighters Burn Center at Stony Brook Medicine is the only designated burn care facility for the more than 1.5 million Suffolk County residents. The center coordinates burn services throughout the region, and conducts training and research in burn care. The Burn Center recently underwent a multimillion dollar transformation, which greatly
increased the center’s size and created an enhanced environment for patients' care. The center was renamed the Suffolk County Volunteer Firefighters Burn Center in honor of the volunteer firefighters who have made it their
mission for many years to support the center and patients in every way. The Suffolk County Volunteer Firefighters Burn Center Fund, Inc., has become central to the mission of the Suffolk County Volunteer Firefighters Burn Center.
Islip, Babylon Fire Police Installations
The Town of Islip and Town of Babylon Fire Police Associations held their annual installation brunch on March 22, 2015, at Capt. Bill’s in Bay Shore. Chief of the West Islip Fire Department Blaise Gemellaro swore in the presidents of both the Town of Islip and Town of Babylon Fire Police Associations Joe Nolan and other 2015 officers. Town of Babylon’s Sergeant-at-Arms, Bob Jensen, Treasurer, Gary Stecher and Secretary, Sarah Feingold Town of Islip’s Officers: President Joe Nolan, 1st Vice President Tom Heinssen, 2nd Vice President Nick Campson, Secretary Richard Erario, Chaplin Sue Orlando, Sergeant-at-Arms, Bernie Phalen. - Fire News photos by Kevin J. Parkan
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Huntington Town Fire Police Installation Dinner
On March 7, 2015, the Town of Huntington Fire Police celebrated their 44th Annual Installation Dinner at the East Northport Fire Department Headquarters. President Douglas K. Kronenberg welcomed the members, their guests and the Huntington Town Officials. Town of Huntington Councilman Eugene Cook was then invited to swear in President Kronenberg; Vice President Thomas Smyth; Secretary Steven Lauchus; Treasurer Raymond J. Wandursky, Jr.; Sergeant-at-Arms Brain Olefson; and Deacon Edward Billa. Councilman Cook then presented a Proclamation to Treasurer Raymond J.Wandursky for his many decades of dedicated public service to the Town Of Huntington Fire Police Association. President Kronenberg then recognized Vice President Thomas Smyth and association member Karen Blackburn with certificates of appreciation and pins. - Fire News photos by Tom Pesce
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Seen at the Mega Show
Town of Brookhaven Chief Fire Marshal Chris Mehrman and his son Christopher take a break to read Fire News at the Long Island Mega Show. -Fire News photo by Dennis Whittam
Helping Their Own
Firefighters from Sound Beach Fire Department’s Engine Company 1 invited their Firefighter Chris MacElveen’s family for dinner at their March meeting. The MacElveens lost their family home on February 1, 2015, when they awoke to a raging fire that started in their basement and quickly spread to the main floor and up into the attic. They narrowly escaped with their lives and lost their beloved cat, Samson. During the meeting firefighters presented Chris’ Mom, Mary MacElveen, with a giant check for $4000 they were able to raise through various fundraising work. (Left to right): Commissioner Phil Alaimo, Erica Elisseou, Anthony Battilo, Captain Darran Handshaw, Colin Williams, Mike Guerrisi, Mary MacElveen, Greg Ferraro, ex-Captain Jim Ford, Tom Passariello, Jim Harris, ex-Chief John Romonoski and ex-Chief Ed Sullivan. - Fire News photo by Stefanie Handshaw
Page 78, Fire News, May 2015
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MOTLEY CREWS OF THE MONTH
Firefighters from the Islip Terrace Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Members of Suffolk County Task Force-1 help out at the Mini Indy. - Fire News photo by Dennis Whittam
Junior members of the Selden Fire Department “Slowpokes� race team. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Flower Hill Hose Company #3 of the Port Washington Fire Department standing by for an installation dinner. - Fire News photo by Dyanna Wrobel
The Amagansett Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
Westhampton Beach Ladder Drill. Pictured: Maura DiBenedetto, Paul Capazolla, Robert Eckles, Paul Hoyle, Eloise Carter, Larry Saccente, Jim Hadley and Mario Mendoza. - Fire News photo by John Neely
St. James and Mt. Sinai get together. - Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
Firefighters from the East Moriches Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
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Seen at the Mega Show
At the recent Long Island Mega Show in February, Stephen L. Ruzow, chairman of the FDNY Foundation and FDNY Honorary Commissioner, got together with Fire News editor and FDNY Honorary Battalion Chief Dennis Whittam and Atlantic Beach Rescue Squad Chief and Honorary FDNY Battalion Chief Jonathan B. Kohan. - Fire News photo by Michael Heller
Not the Usual Way to Get Asked to the Prom
John Drews IV, Lieutenant of the Sound Beach Junior FD promposaled fellow Junior Member Kiera Nesbitt to the Rocky Point Senior Prom. During forcible entry training he stood on the other side while Kiera took the door holding his prom-posal sign. She said yes. - Fire News photo by John Drews
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Fire News, May 2015, Page 81
Ronkonkoma Juniors Training
Recently the Ronkonkoma junior firefighters did hands-on simulated structure training at the Smithtown Fire Training Facility. Dressed in full PPE including SCBA, approximately 15 juniors split into three groups — an interior search team, a interior hose team and an exterior EMS team. Entering the smoked out structure, the juniors had to locate the simulated fire and any possible victims,
bringing them outside to awaiting EMS crews. Radio communications between teams were kept close with command outside the building. The training was supervised by senior members and junior advisors of the Ronkonkoma Fire Department such as 3rd Assistant Kevin Murray, Captain Eric Cook, Paramedic Mike Cohen and Firefighter Joe Perez. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
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Easter Morning Coverage The St. James Catholic Church has held an Easter morning Mass on West Meadow Beach for more than 28 years. The Town of Brookhaven has permitted the practice to continue, albeit with the presence of the Setauket Fire Department to provide protection while a bonfire was lit. This year, a Sunday morning duty crew started early enough to cover the 0530 Mass. They are supplemented by other members as well, bringing an engine and brush truck to the beach. Pictured are Larry Hall, Bill Williams, Brian Fleason, Nate Frey, Sean Hannifin, Charles Regulinski, Bill Siegel and Lou Picarrella. - Fire News photo by Robert O’Rourk
East Farmingdale’s 46th Chief of the Department (Left to right): Chief of Department Joseph Wisz, 1st Assistant Chief Mathew Joseph, 2nd Assistant Chief Joe Iuzzini, 3rd Assistant Chief Duane Welliver. - Fire News photo by John Welter
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Karen Bendel, Baldwin’s Chief of Department
Karen Bendel was sworn in as Chief of Department of the Baldwin Fire Department for 2015. It was extra special because her father, ex-Chief William Werfelman was able to administer the oath of office. Baldwin Fire Department deputies for the year are Frank Cesare, Mike Jazylo, and Michael Esposito. - Fire News photo courtesy of Karen Bendel
Easter Bunny in West Hempstead
On April 4, 2015 the Easter bunny stopped by the West Hempstead fire house to say hello and pose for a picture with the members. Afterwards the members took the bunny on their truck to make his rounds in West Hempstead. - Fire News photo by Bill D’Alessandro
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A Good Deed, Paid Forward Island Park lost their apparatus after Hurricane Sandy. The Terry Farrell Fund was able to secure a pumper from the Roswell (GA) Fire Department to serve as a replacement. Recently, Island Park received a new truck and returned the pumper to the fund, which, in turn, donated the pumper to the Bangor (NY) Volunteer Fire Company in North Bangor. Pictured are Melanie Sherwin (EMT), Dale Sherwin (Firefighter and Board of Directors), Justin LaValley (Firefighter), Tom DeBeer (Board of Directors and Firefighter). - Fire News photo courtesy of the Terry Farrell Fund
50th Anniversary of Elmont Explorers On March 22, 2015, approximately 70 past and current members of Elmont Fire Department Explorer Post 709 gathered at Elmont headquarters to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the post. Among those present were five charter members. Many of the department’s leaders were once members of the post. - Fire News photo courtesy of Elmont FD
Valley Stream FFs Help Wounded Warriors Last Christmas season, members of the Valley Stream Fire Department raised $6000 for Nassau County Firefighters Operation Wounded Warrior (NCFF-OWW) by collecting donations from motorists. In just one afternoon VSFD’s Rescue Company walked through stopped traffic at the Green Acres Shopping Center, while members of VSFD's Engine 2 collected donations in traffic on Sunrise Highway. - Fire News photo courtesy of NCFF-OWW
Nassau Juniors Plans for Junior Fire Camp In past years Juniors and Explorers throughout Nassau County had traveled hours to other states to participate in Fire Camps. For the past 18 months the Juniors Board of Directors, Chief Brown, Chief Hughes from the FSA, and the Exploring Executives from BSA have been working on a plan to establish a Fire Camp in Nassau County. During the week of July 20, 2015, there will be 30 Juniors/Explorers from different Junior companies participating in the 1st Annual NCJFA Junior Fire Camp right here in Nassau County. (Left to right): Sergeant-at-Arms Bryan Sheer, Treasurer Richie Field, 2nd Vice President Charlie Lynch, President Kelly Hastings, Chief Brown, Chief Hughes, Secretary Ryan Hunt.
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Remembering Point Lookout-Lido’s Captain George Grant
Thirty-five years ago the Point Lookout-Lido Fire Department lost Captain George Grant on a cold winter night. On March 1, 1980, Grant lost his life battling a fully involved house fire in Point Lookout. Annually since, the Point Lookout-Lido Fire Department remember what George gave for his community. There is a service held at the community church for George, then the flag is raised and a wreath placed at a headstone at headquarters. This year, members gathered at Heneghan’s Tavern in Point Lookout where a plaque was dedicated to George, which will hang on the wall for all to see and, remember the young life that was given to the community of Point Lookout. Captain George Grant gave the supreme sacrifice. Always remembered, never forgotten ... - Fire News photos by Bill Bennett
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Bohemia Installation
On March 14, 2015, the Bohemia Fire Department installed Michael Stankunis as Chief of Department. Chief Stankunis had his daughters, Lauren and Kaitlyn, at his side as he was sworn in by his cousin Billy, who is a Wantagh firefighter. Sterling Haynes and Brian O’Neill were sworn in as his 1st and 2nd Assistant Chiefs. The department recognized, Captain Susan Orlando for 25 years of service, ex-Chief Ed Vinogroski for 30 years of service, ex-Chief Jeff Behounek for 35 years of service, Chaplain Harry Wilzman for 40 years of service, and Bill Swanda for 45 years of service and exChief Richard Andersen for his service to the Department and to
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the community. Walter Lenz was chosen as Probie of the Year, Lt. Anthony DiGiralamo was chosen as Officer of the Year and Chief Stankunis was chosen as Firefighter of the Year. The Department made Tommy O’Grady an honorary member of the department for assisting with its spaghetti fundraiser. His business, Tuscany Gourmet Market, provided the food for the fundraiser, where he was able to feed over 800 people in a three-hour time period. The Installation Dinner was held at The Spa at the Eastwind. - Fire News photos by Pam Losquadro
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Medford Installation Dinner
On April 11, 2015, the Medford Fire Department held their Annual Garcia as they lead the department on 2015. Congratulations to all of Installation and Awards Dinner. Good luck to Chief of Department the award recipients and thank you for your dedicated service to the -Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam Franklin D. Rivera and to Assistant Chiefs Anthony Maneri and Willie Medford Fire Department.
Patchogue Installation and Awards Ceremony
On March 28, 2015, the Patchogue Fire Department held their 135th Installation banquet at the West Lake Inn in Patchogue. The chiefs of the department were sworn in by Chairman of the Board of Fire Commissioners Zibrim Banse. They are: Chief of the Department Jeffrey Baer; Deputy Chief Joseph Arabia, Jr.; 1st Battalion Chief Nick Greco; and 2nd Battalion Chief David Tierney. Also honored were 25-year member Thomas Felice and 50-year members Lonny Lettieri and Kenneth Meyer, Jr.; Ken was also
awarded the Department's Medal of Valor for a life saving rescue that he made in 1968; the medals were not issued in those days. Michael DeSant was honored with a plaque commemorating the occasion of his 100th birthday. Mike was born on April 22, 1915, and joined the Patchogue Fire Department's Van Guard Hose Co. # 1 in 1939. Fire News will highlight Mike's birthday celebration at the Van Guards in a future edition. - Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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Sound Beach Installs New Officers
On March 7, 2015, the Sound Beach Fire Department held their annual installation and awards dinner. Congratulations to ex-Chief and past-Commissioner Vincent Battillo for being recognized as he celebrated 60 years of service to the department and community. Councilwomen Jane Bonner and Legislator Sara Acker were on
hand to help swear in the new chiefs for 2015. Good luck to Chief of Department Thomas Sternberg, 1st Assistant Chief Keith Williams and 2nd Assistant Chief Michael Rosasco and they lead the department in 2015. -Fire News photos by Bill Rosasco
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Suffolk County Fire District Officers Installation
On March 7, 2015, the Suffolk County Fire Districts Officers Association held their annual Installation Dinner. Congratulations to Rudy Sunderman, Jr. - President, who was sworn in by his father, Rudy Sunderman, Sr. On hand to swear in the new officers of the association was SCFRES Commissioner Joe Williams. Good luck to Jay Egan - 1st Vice President, John Dolezal - 2nd Vice President, John Manzi - Sergeant-at-Arms, Lawrence Santangelo Secretary, Joseph DeStefano - Treasurer and Edwin Brooks Chaplain as they assist President Sunderman in leading the organization in 2015. Good luck to Michael Mooney - immediate past-President for his leadership in 2014. - Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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Suffolk County Brush Fire Training Site
Suffolk County Executive Bellone, Suffolk County FRES Deputy Commissioner John Jordan, the Central Pine Barrens Commission and Wildfire Academy and NYS Department of Environmental Conservation today announced plans for the operation of a permanent brush truck training site in Yaphank. The site, located adjacent to FRES Headquarters and the Suffolk County Fire Academy, will serve as an important component to training provided twice yearly by the Wildfire Academy. Its location will include 25 acres of undeveloped land that will be used for training in operation of brush truck — which are deployed to deliver firefighters and assets into deeply wooded areas to combat brush and wildfires. -Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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Hewlett’s Rizzo Honored for Service
Edward Rizzo of the Hewlett Fire Department recently reached an historic milestone. Ex-Chief Rizzo was honored with a gala luncheon and awards ceremony for accruing 50 years of active service to the Hewlett Fire Department. In those 50 years Ed served many a position within the department from Lieutenant of Engine Company 2 through the ranks of Chief of Department in 1982. His dedication to service and commitment to duty are and will always be second to none. Ed can still be seen turning out for runs and at every department function, and is always willing to lend a hand. Thank you Chief Rizzo on a job well done. - Fire News photos by Crissy Lahey
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Great River 99th Installation Great River Fire Department held its 99th Annual installation dinner on February 28, 2015, at Capt. Bill’s in Bay Shore. The following chiefs were sworn in (left to right): 1st Assistant Chief P.J. Llobell, Chief William Vogel and 2nd Assistant Chief Robert Sudano. - Fire News photo by Kevin J. Parkan
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Up Close & Personal
Ex-Chief Mort ‘Morty’ Sickles attained 50 years of service this past February. He served as Chief of Deer Park from 1978 to 1980. - Fire News photo by Ken Bradbury
Setauket Firefighter Lou Andrade in action at a recent fire. - Fire News photo by Dennis Whittam
No Guts, No Glory! There are different ways to learn than just in a classroom. And we all agree firefighters are a competitive bunch. So this year Firehouse Expo is offering firefighters the opportunity to compete in the inaugural Fire-Rescue Competition Powered by Firehouse. The timed competition will simulate a Mayday involving a downed firefighter and will require teams to perform a relay rescue operation to search, locate and extract the downed firefighter. The three fastest, most efficient times will move on to the finals on Saturday, July 18, 2015. A voluntary pre-conference training session will be provided the day before the competition for all registered teams. The training will include classroom instruction and hands-on training. Skills being evaluated during the competition include: Command and Control Operations; Personnel Accountability and Reporting; Fireground Communications; Forcible Entry Techniques; Navigating a Diminishing Clearance Obstacle; Overcoming Entanglement Hazards; Up and Over/Lifts and Carries; Wall Breach; Victim Search, Packaging and Removal; Restricted Opening Rescue and Removal Operations Applications are currently being accepted for state and regional conferences interested in hosting a qualifying event for the 2016 National Championships. For this year’s event, the top three teams in regional events being offered at Fire-Rescue East (Daytona, FL) Smokey Mountain Weekend (Pigeon Forge, TN) and the Maryland Fireman’s Convention (Ocean City, MD) are slated to participate in this year’s championship. All events are being Powered by Firehouse. The team named National Champions will take home a trophy and bragging rights … until next year’s event! For a complete description of the competition, event rules, grading criteria and team registration information, visit FirehouseExpo.com.
Halesite Fire Department ex-Captain Dave Willis with his sons James and Charles, who are Junior Firefighters at Halesite, as they prepare to march in their first parade. - Fire News photo by Kate Kuntz, Halesite FD/PIO
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NYSAFC ANNOUNCES FIRE 2015 SPECIAL OPENING LECTURE: “IN HONOR OF THE CHARLESTON 9: A STUDY OF CHANGE FOLLOWING TRAGEDY” The New York State Association of Fire Chiefs is pleased to announce the NYSAFC 109th Annual Conference and FIRE 2015 Expo Special Opening Lecture: “In Honor of the Charleston 9: A Study of Change Following Tragedy,” presented by Captain/ Training Officer Dr. David Griffin of the Charleston (SC) Fire Department. The education program, which is open to conference Full Term Registrants, will be held on Wednesday, June 17, from 0930 to 1130 in the Shenendoah Clubhouse at the Turning Stone Resort, Verona, New York. On June 18, 2007, nine firefighters perished in a warehouse fire in Charleston, South Carolina. What was initially dispatched as a trash fire escalated into one of the most scrutinized events in national fire service history. David Griffin had the unfortunate experience of being the engineer on the first-due engine that day. As
he operated on the fireground, he witnessed things that he will never forget. In this program, Griffin will present firsthand accounts of that day, share never before seen video footage with radio traffic, and discuss the heavy toll this catastrophic event took on his life. He will review the incredible changes that he and the Charleston Fire Department have made following this tragedy, present scientific research regarding the change process, and explain how this event and his new, innovative research have changed the national fire service. Pre-register and learn more about the NYSAFC 109th Annual Conference and FIRE 2015 Expo at www.nysfirechiefs.com. Education programs will be held Wednesday through Saturday, while exhibits will be open Thursday through Saturday. - Photo by John M. Buckman III
TRAINING OUTSIDE YOUR DEPARTMENT HAS MANY BENEFITS TRADE SHOWS OFFER AN OPPORTUNITY FOR EDUCATION AND A PLACE TO MEET OTHER FIRE SERVICE PROFESSIONALS We all agree on the importance of training. It provides the opportunity for career advancement; and advances in technology, research and equipment help us stay safe on the fireground. Your department strives to keep on top of new types of training, but have you considered the benefits to training outside of your department at a fire service trade show like Firehouse Expo? Consider this: • You can meet many national fire service leaders and see their different teaching styles in action. • You can meet fire service professionals from around the country and learn about their viewpoints on fireground tactics and strategies. • You can learn about the latest tactics, strategies and research taking place outside your department. • You can meet vendors to discuss recent purchases as well as your options regarding warranties and equipment maintenance. • You can meet fellow fire service professionals and develop new contacts in the fire service. And don’t forget that there are many other activities and events beyond the educational aspects of the conference. For example, at Firehouse Expo you can participate in these great events:
• A competition where teams compete in 10 timed events run in succession to simulate a common fireground scenario. • A 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb held in conjunction with the NFFF. • The Firehouse Fit@Expo, which is designed to emphasize the importance of firefighter health and fitness. Of course, it often seems like it is too expensive to take part in outside educational opportunities. But trade shows like Firehouse Expo are proactively making it more cost-effective for fire service professionals like you to attend by offering special educational pricing. For example, this year Firehouse Expo will take $174 off a threeday package and $40 off a oneday conference package via its Discover Firehouse special educational offers. Trade shows provide a unique opportunity to learn, network and enjoy the brotherhood of the fire service. For more information visit FirehouseExpo.com
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Celebrating a Life of Service
On March 23, 2015, Suffolk C o u n t y F i re - R e s c u e a n d Emergency Services remembered Frank L. Obremski (FC19) who died in the line of duty on March 10, 2014. On hand to pay tribute to Frank was Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone; FRES Commissioner Joseph F. Williams; Deputy Commissioner of FRES John G. Jordan, Sr.; Chief Deputy Fire Coordinator Greg James; family, friends, members of FRES and the North Babylon Fire Department. - Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
Page 98, Fire News, May 2015
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St. Patrick’s Day Parades
St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Huntington Just as the temperatures warmed up and the snow melted, the Huntington St. Patrick's Day Parade stepped off with many local fire departments, ambulance squads and marching bands joining many other organizations that participated. The 81st annual parade, sponsored by the Huntington Ancient Order of Hibernians, is the oldest and largest on Long Island. - Fire News photos by Steve Silverman
Center Moriches St. Patrick’s Day Parade Center Moriches Fire Department, its Ladies Auxiliary and juniors, the East Moriches Fire Department, Manorville Fire Department and Mastic Fire Department marched in the March 15, 2015, St. Patrick's Day parade in Center Moriches. - Fire News photos by Jim Rugen
Rockville Centre St. Patrick’s Day Parade. - Fire News photos by Steve Takacs
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St. Patrick’s Day Parades
The Bethpage Snowstorm St Patrick's Day Parade. - Fire News photos by Kevin Imm
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75 Year Member of the Port Washington Appointed Honorary Chief On March 28, 2015, the Port Washington Fire Department and the Protection Engine Co. No. 1 honored Harold ‘Porky’ Poole and celebrated his reaching his 75th year of service to the department and the community, an achievement no other member of the Protection Engine Company has attained. And, it is likely that his tenure as an active member has never been equaled by anyone who has served in the Port Washington Fire Department. Harold was elected to membership in September 1940. A short six months after his entry into the fire company, he enlisted in the US Navy. During World War II he was primarily stationed in the Mediterranean as a Boatswain Mate on an LST (landing craft) and was involved with major landings at Corsica, Anzio, the Elbe River and South France. Less than a year after returning to civilian life, and the fire company, Harold was elected Second Assistant Foreman for 1947, First Assistant Foreman for 1948, and then Foreman for 1949 and 1950 (the title of Foreman was changed to Captain in later years). He continued an active role in fighting fires for many years thereafter. He did not limit himself to just firefighting. He was an integral part of the fire company's Rangers competition drill team where he participated at many different positions, including nozzle, hydrant, buckets and as a ‘footer’ in
ladder events. He was a member of the 1946 Nassau County championship team. Harold was a member of Protection’s softball team, playing the outfield in both the town and the 8th Fire Battalion softball leagues. He also served the fire company as a member of the 75th and 100th anniversary committees, the entertainment committee, and the grave committee, and was one of the founders of the Port Washington Fire Department blood bank. He has been a member of the Board of Directors of the Port Washington Fire Department, a delegate to the Nassau County Firemen’s Association and New York State Firemen’s Association, and, each year, participated in the state association's annual legislative clearing house. Along with being an active member of Protection for 75 years, Harold has been a member of the Port Washington Exempt Firemen’s Benevolent Association for over 70 years. Harold has been a constant presence at the firehouse for the entire time and has taught many members by his example. We thank him for helping to protect our country and community, for giving so much of his time and energy to Port Washington Fire Department and 75-year member, Honorary Chief Harold the Protection Engine Co. No. 1, and for being ‘Porky’ Poole. a friend throughout. - Fire News photo by Brian Waterson
Page 102, Fire News, May 2015
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Obituary
Hicksville’s Stephen Ocuto
The officers and members of the Hicksville Fire Department regret to announce the untimely passing of 20year member ex-Captain Stephen ‘Flounder’ Ocuto of Independent Engine and Hose Company 2. Stephen passed away suddenly on March 5, 2015. Stephen leaves behind a wife and two small children, a daughter eight and son four. Ocuto worked for the Nassau County Sheriff’s Department as a Correction Officer for 16 years. - Fire News photos by Kevin Imm
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