VOLUME XLIV, NO. 9
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Since 1973 MAY 2017
Story on page 6. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
Fire News Welcomes Everyone to the PA Fire Expo Visit us at Booth 704 North Hall
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In this issue... A Service for Long Island Firefighters and EMS Heroes
Mineola House Fire Collyer’s mansion conditions complicate a fire in a twostory residence. See story page 14
Calverton Barn Fire Riverhead firefighters and mutual aid units tackle a barn fire. See story page 21
Roosevelt House Fire Extends A dryer fire extends to the first and second floors in Roosevelt See story page 34
1 Dead, 4 Injured in N. Lindenhurst MVA A five-vehicle MVA results in an overturn, an extrication, a death, four injuries and one fleeing-the-scene See story page 44
Nassau and Suffolk Fire District Officers Both county associations install their officers for 2017. See stories pages 84 & 86
Obituaries: Patchogue’s Francis ‘Herk’ Ambrose and Massapequa’s Eugene Bryson
Founded 1973
146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713 FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher TIM EDWARDS, Executive Editor DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor GARY P. JOYCE, Asst. Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production/Sales LYNN SEDLER, Art Director CLIFF CHIESA, Production Manager Advertising Sales: BARBARA CONNOLLY, EVELYN ALOISIO Graphic Artist: GREG JONES, JEB LADOUCEUR, Publisher Emeritus CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: Vinnie Ammirati, Tim Asbell, Bill Bennett, Chris Brenner, Jeff Bressler, Kirk Candan, Wayne Carrington, Amanda Coffey, Ed Coppa, Bill D'Alessandro, Mike DesCalso, Jim Dunn, Larry Fox, Lee Genser, Myron Goldstein, Bryan Gosik, Brian Grogan, Steve Grogan, Mike Guarino, Daniel Gunther, Michael Gunther, Stephanie Handshaw, Jeff Havlik, Jack Healy, Branden Heller, Michael Heller, Christine Heeren, Robert Holley, Cody Hoyle, Kevin Imm, John Ippolito, Kate Kuntz, Joe Lapietra, Richard Lewin, Bryan Lopez, Harry Loud, Kurt Ludwig, Brad Maier, John Mancino, Paul Mazza, Terry McCarrick, Lou Minutoli, Ron Monteleone, Jim Mooney, Ilene Morris, Michael Murphy, Charles A. Murphy, Mike Oppedisano, John Neely, Phil Orlando, Robert O'Rourk, Francis "Sid" Parkan, Kevin Parkan, Tom Pesce, Kevin Peterson, Jackson Pokress, Jerry Presta, Myles Quinn, Jerry Rudolph, Dave Rubin, Jim, Rugen, AJ Ryan, Steve Schaefer, Drew Silverman, Steve Silverman, Joe Sperber, Rich Stark, JoAnn Stephani, Brian Thomas, Ed Tuffy, Joe Virgilio, Dennis Whittam, Cameron Wilken, Michael Wiwczar, John Wladyka, Jr. COLUMNISTS: Jeff Bailes, Paul Hashagen, Bruce Johnson, John Salka, Billy Goldfeder, Danny Peluso, Bradley Pinksy, Tom Rinelli COPYRIGHT 2017, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
For advertising rates and information, call (631) 776-0500 Press 3 Editorial: (631) 776-0500 Ext 281 Fax number: (631) 286-6866 Internet: http://www.firenews.com e-mail: LI@firenews.com
Six Editions Serving Long Island, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Pennsylvania Proud Member Of:
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PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 EMS Coverage . . . . . . . . . . . . .starts on page 36 Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 88 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 90 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . pages 92-93 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 98
Letters to the Editor, byline articles, and columns represent the opinions of the writers and photographers and are not necessarily the views of the Fire News. We reserve the right to edit all of the above. We are not responsible for errors in advertisements beyond the cost of advertising space. Copy submitted is subject to editing for space requirements. The placing of an advertisement in this publication does not constitute endorsement. Contents are copyrighted. Editorial and advertising copy cannot be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Fire News is published monthly by Fire News Inc, with corporate offices at 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713.
44 Years of Excellence As you know, Fire News is in its 44th year of publication. If you have any stories, photos and good memories from the past, please send them to LI@FireNews.com.
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
What Are You Thinking About? Recently, as I was responding to an automatic alarm as a member of the crew on my engine, a few thoughts went through my head. I looked at the member that was sitting with me and wondered what the young probie was thinking about. For me, I did what I have done for the past 25 years; I monitored the conversation between my officer and the chief who was already on scene. Moments later, before we arrived on scene, we were turned around and headed home. I took the next few minutes to ask the probie sitting next to me a question. The conversation started like this. “Ah, an easy call, but let me ask you, what were you thinking about when you got on the truck?” He looked at me and said, “What do you mean?” Oh well, here I go playing ‘father firefighter.’ I lectured the poor kid for the entire ride home. I didn't stop’"teaching’ after the truck was back in the truck bay. We sat down in the kitchen and had a great conversation on what all members
should do from the moment they hear a call come over the pager. Most of you who are reading this realize what I was doing. You probably did what I did yourself. I wanted the young firefighter to understand that size-up starts the moment the call comes over the pager. Do you think differently when you hear a call go out with the words “across from?” As you pull into the parking lot, are you noticing how many cars are in the lot? When you enter the firehouse are you immediately gearing up or are you standing around waiting for more members to show up? How about checking the location of the call and looking on the map for the hydrants? When you get on the road, are you listening to the conversations that are going on inside of the truck? Who is doing what, when you get to the scene? We have learned that size-up starts the minute you hear the dispatcher put the call over the air. The young firefighter I was talking to may
or may not have appreciated what I was doing. Regardless, it is up to all experienced members to guide new members so they are prepared to go into action when they arrive on scene. No matter what the call is, no one should be getting off the truck without knowing exactly what to expect. The simple automatic alarm is a teaching opportunity. Finding alarm panels and resetting them is a valuable lesson for everyone on the truck. In the fire service, you learn the basic techniques of your trade and you learn what to do at various incidents in fire school. However, a lot of what you learn comes from the experience you received on prior calls. The pockets of your coat are probably filled with small tools that have become indispensable because experience has showed you that you need them. To all new members; learn from every call. To all experienced members; take the time to share your experiences so that everyone goes home safely. - Dennis
Announcements ERRATA
In the April Long Island Fire News on page 20, “1 Injured in Stony Brook Blaze,” the last line of the text should have read, “The Suffolk County Police Department established a crime scene at the location.” Thank you to Town of Brookhaven Chief Fire Marshal Christopher J. Mehrman for pointing out the error.
BROOKHAVEN FIRE DEPARTMENT 3RD ANNUAL ROCK FEST
On Saturday, June 3, 2017 the Brookhaven Fire Department presents the 3rd Annual Rock Fest 2017 featuring the music by All Zepped Up (The Spirit of Led Zeppelin), Killin Time (Long Island’s premiere Classic Rock Cover Band), and Seven Turns (Allman Brothers Tribute Band) at Brookhaven Fire Department Fireman’s Park located on Montauk Highway and Old Town Road, across from Headquarters. Gates Open at 1700, show starts at 1800. Refreshments and raffles will be available for purchase. Bring your own chair blanket for a night of great music and fun for all. For additional info, visit brookhavenfd.com or call Mike Verni at 631-286-2228.
FIRE MARSHALS SHOTGUN SHOOT
On Saturday, May 20, 2017, the Fire Marshal Association of Suffolk County (FMASCO) will hold its annual Shotgun Competition (Trap) and Barbeque at the Long Island Shooting Range in Ridge. Proceeds of the event go towards the Suffolk County Volunteer Firefighter Burn Center and Firefighters Cancer Support Network, New York. For more information please contact Kevin Peterson at 631-388-2586.
SUFFOLK COUNTY FRES COMMISSION 2017 OFFICERS
The Suffolk County Fire Rescue and Emergency Services Commission is pleased to announce the new officers of the executive board for 2017. Elected Commission Chairman is Tim Crafts of the Smithtown Fire Chiefs Council; Drew Silverman of the Suffolk County Ambulance Chiefs Association was elected Vice Chairman and Kyle
Markott of the Brookhaven Fire Chiefs Council was elected Treasurer. The Commission is comprised of appointed delegates of all 10 township fire chiefs councils, the Suffolk County Fire Chiefs Council, the Suffolk County Fire District Officers Association, the Suffolk County Volunteer Firemen’s Association, the Suffolk County Ambulance Chiefs Association and the Fire Marshals Association of Suffolk County and acts as the policy-making body to the County Executive, the County Legislature and the Commissioner of Fire Rescue and Emergency Services regarding fire service issues, training and mutual aid.
CAMP FAHRENHEIT 516 OPENS ITS DOORS TO SOUTHERN NEW YORK
On July 25th, The Nassau Juniors Annual Fire camp will have a few guests. The officers and board of directors of the camp have put aside a limited number of spots for surrounding juniors/explorers in the Southern New York area for the 2017 camp session. The idea came from a flood of requests received at the Mega Show where a video of the camp was playing. If your company would like to have a chance of attending the camp this summer, send an e-mail to nassaujuniors@gmail.com and ask for an application no later than June 8. Search YouTube for last year’s camp to see what we are about at “Nassau Juniors Camp Fahrenheit 2016.” You can also send a request and follow us on Facebook and Instagram at “nassaujuniors.” (Continued on page 5)
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Announcements FASNY FIREMEN’S HOME 125TH ANNIVERSARY MAY 20, 2017
The FASNY Museum of Firefighting’s staff and Muster Committee are planning a muster to celebrate the 125th Anniversary of the FASNY Firemen's Home on May 20, 2017, according to Jamie Smith Quinn, Executive Director of the FASNY Museum of Firefighting in Hudson, NY. The parade will be comprised of local fire departments, other invited fire departments and muster participants. Vintage fire trucks will be showcased in the spirit of celebrating firefighting heritage and the 125th Anniversary of the Home. The parade’s antique apparatus are tentatively scheduled to step off at 0930 and the muster grounds open at 1000. The once-in-a-lifetime event is a collaboration with the City of Hudson’s Fire Department, which will handle the logistics for the Hudson Fire Department Inspection Day/Anniversary/Muster parade. Everything will take place that day on the muster grounds at the FASNY Home. The parade will end on the grounds of the FASNY Firemen’s Home after a procession through the City of Hudson. Hand-drawn apparatus will already be on the grounds, waiting for the combustion engine apparatus to join the muster day activities. There will be a ceremony commemorating the 125th Anniversary of the FASNY Firemen's Home, and many local and New York State dignitaries are expected to attend the ceremony and event. Antique fire apparatus aficionados wishing to join the muster and/or parade with a fire truck can request an application by using the “contact us” form on the Museum’s website: www.fasnyfiremuseum.com. Or, email ashley@fasnyfiremuseum.com or call 518-822-1875 x 10. Space is limited, so please contact today to ensure your participation! For those planning to attend this event, please note: there will be no tobacco, alcohol or pets (except service animals) allowed on the grounds. Limited camping is available on the grounds, and applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. If you would like an application, visit the Museum's website and under the “Events and Programs” tab, pick “Muster” on the drop-down menu. The camping application link is on the bottom of the page. For more information about the event, memorabilia order forms and links to housing/camping information, visit www.firemenshome. com/anniversary.
43RD ANNUAL NATIONAL EMS WEEK MAY 21-27, 2017
It is hard to believe that it is going to be 43 years since President Gerald Ford authorized EMS Week to celebrate EMS practitioners and the important work they do in our nation's communities. Back then, EMS was a new profession, and EMS practitioners had only just started to be recognized as a critical component of emergency medicine and the public health safety net. According to the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT), EMS Week brings together local communities and medical personnel to honor the dedication of those who provide the day-to-day lifesaving services of medicine's front line. NAEMT reminds us that whether or not you celebrate with a company cookout, catered lunch, an open house, an awards ceremony or even quiet reflection about what it means to be an EMS practitioner, EMS Week is the perfect time to recognize EMS and all that its members do for our nation. Fire News urges everyone to visit www.NAEMT.org to review the ways to celebrate EMS Week and to raise Public Awareness about EMS. Thank you to NAEMT for raising awareness about our EMS providers.
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Cover Story
Firefighter William N. Tolley Answers Last Alarm
On April 27, 2017, a firematic funeral was held for FDNY Firefighter William N. Tolley of Ladder 135 located on Myrtle Avenue in Queens. Firefighter Tolley was taken from us while operating at a fire on Putnam Avenue in Ridgewood. Tolley was a former member of the Hicksville Fire Department and a current member of the Bethpage Fire Department. He was also a drummer of a heavy metal band that was about to embark on a nationwide tour. Mayor Bill de Blasio, Fire Commissioner Daniel A. Nigro, and thousands of FDNY members, family, and friends attended the funeral service for this hero. Our prayers go out to Marie Tolley, his wife, and to his eight-year-old daughter, Isabella, as well as to his brothers and sisters in the fire service. Firefighter William N. Tolley is the 1,147th member of the FDNY to die in the line of duty. May he rest in peace as he watches over his family from the floor above. - Fire News photos by Kevin Imm
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Westbury 2-Alarmer
On March 23, 2017, the Westbury Fire Department was dispatched to a reported structure fire on Prospect Avenue off Brush Hollow Road. When firefighters arrived and made their way into the building to investigate they found that they had a confirmed fire on the third floor of a three-story mixed occupancy. Westbury Chief John Bartunek immediately upgraded the run to a second alarm. Fortunately for firefighters, the sprinkler system helped to get a hold on the fire. Firefighters used a standpipe and a handline to extinguish the remainder. At the height of the operation firefighters were up against the hundreds of people attempting to make their way out of the building. At least three civilians were injured; however, all injuries were considered non-life threatening. - Fire News photos by K2M Photography.com
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Commack House Fire
The Commack Fire Department responded to a house fire on Dryden Way on March 3, 2017. Upon arrival a fire was discovered in the basement and first floor of the two-story home. Residents were not home. One firefighter suffered minor injuries and was transported to an area hospital by Commack Volunteer Ambulance. Mutual aid came from Kings Park, East Northport, Greenlawn, Brentwood and Dix Hills. It took 30 minutes to bring the fire under control with overhaul taking another hour. - Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
Well, That Could’ve Been Worse The East Farmingdale Fire Company was called to a vehicle fire at the rear of Kings Caterers on Smith Street early on March 22, 2017. Chief of Department Joseph arrived to find a fully involved van at the location near two cardboard box compactors. Embers from the van ignited one of the compactors, which was in front of a storage area for propane tanks. Engines 1-5-1, 1-5-3 and 1-5-6 responded, stretched two lines and extinguished both fires in about 40 minutes; several propane tanks were removed without incident. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Good Stop in East Meadow On March 20, 2017, the East Meadow Fire Department responded to an automatic alarm at a Friend’s Lane home. While responding, additional calls were coming in for a garage fire at that location. Crews were met with heavy smoke showing from the two-story home and a line was stretched to the front door. An aggressive interior attack quickly knocked down the fire with minimal extension to the rest of the home. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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Truck Fire Doused on SOB On April 3, 2017, the Plainview Fire Department responded to a report of a truck fire on the exit ramp of the Seaford Oyster Bay Expressway and Old Country Road. NCPD Highway officers knocked the fire down and the crew from Engine 9511 extinguished the remaining fire. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
Garden City Handles Truck Fire On March 17, 2017, a FedEx delivery truck was destroyed by fire on Old Country Road near Fourth Avenue in Mineola. The driver did his best to remove some of the packages before the fire spread throughout the vehicle. Garden City firefighters were on the scene to extinguish the blaze. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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25 Displaced by Brentwood Blaze
On March 24, 2017, the Brentwood Fire Department received multiple calls reporting a house fire at a two-story home on Arizona Avenue. Fire Inspector Kuehn was the first to respond and reported smoke showing and fire on the second floor. Within minutes the second floor became heavily involved as Engine 3-2-15 and Ladder 3-2-8 arrived. Chief Derbyshire took command and requested mutual aid to the scene from Bay Shore, Islip and Central Islip. Engine crews put multiple handlines into operation to knock down heavy fire from the outside before entering the house. As the interior attack was underway, conditions worsened and members were pulled. It took over an hour to bring the fire under control with the house heavily damaged. Approximately 25 people were displaced. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Suffolk County Police Arson Squad. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza and Joseph C. Sperber
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Hicksville Electric Box Fire
On April 6, 2017, the Hicksville Fire Department responded to a report of a house fire on Mineola Avenue. Arriving units found a fire in the electric meter box on the exterior of the home. The fire was extinguished with minor extension to the home. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
Sparklers Cause Melville Brush Fire
The Melville Fire Department responded to a brush fire on Holly Court on April 14, 2017. Two engines, a brush truck and two ambulances were dispatched, under the command of Assistant Chiefs Chris Nolan and David Kaplan. The fire burned a 50- x 25foot area between two houses. The fire was believed to have been caused by children playing with sparklers. - Fire News story by Steve Silverman, photo courtesy of the Melville FD
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Roosevelt Basement Fire Extends On April 3, 2017, the Roosevelt Fire Department was dispatched for a dryer fire in a basement on Westfield Avenue. Arriving units were met with smoke showing from a two-story private dwelling. North Merrick was notified for the FAST. Additional mutual aid was called from Hempstead, Uniondale, South Hempstead and Baldwin, among others. Roosevelt Engine 733 was the first engine company to arrive and put two lines into operation to fight the fire, which extended to the first and second floors. In just under an hour the scene was placed under control. Roosevelt Chief of Department Fennell had the command. - Fire News photo by K2M Photography.com
Vehicle Burns in Hagerman The Hagerman Fire Department made quick work of a vehicle fire with the help of the Medford Fire Department on East Woodside Avenue. - Fire News photo by Steve Walsh
Fast Work in Roslyn The Roslyn Fire Department responded to a house fire on Poplar Drive on March 22, 2017. A small fire had broken out in a house under construction with workers safely evacuating. A quick knockdown placed the blaze under control with 30 minutes. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Mineola House Fire
On March 30, 2017, the Mineola Fire Department was dispatched to a reported house fire on Arlington Street. When firefighters arrived they found heavy smoke and fire showing from a two-story private dwelling. After making their way into the home, firefighters discovered that they were battling Collyer’s mansion conditions. Multiple handlines were put into operation to fight the fire, which
was present on both floors of the home. Mutual aid was called from Garden City, Garden City Park and Williston Park, among others. A dog was inside at the time of the fire and did not survive. Units were under the command of Mineola Chief of Department Jeffrey Clark. - Fire News photos by K2M Photography.com and FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Collyer’s Mansion in Carle Place On April 1, 2017, the Carle Place Fire Department was dispatched for a fire on Manchester Street. Firefighters were met with a bedroom fire on the second floor of a two-story private dwelling. Mineola was called as the FAST. Carle Place Engine 917 stretched two lines. Firefighters made a quick knockdown despite Collyer’s mansion conditions. Additional mutual aid came from Westbury, Hicksville and East Williston. - Fire News photos by K2M Photography.com and FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Busy Day in Wantagh
Early on February 17, 2017, the Wantagh Fire Department responded to a house fire on Seaford Avenue. Seaford was RIT and units from Bellmore, North Bellmore and Massapequa also responded. This was the second house fire within a 24-hour period. - Fire News photos by Jack Healy
W. Babylon Handles Car Fire On the afternoon of March 26, 2017, the West Babylon Fire Department was alerted for a vehicle fire in the parking lot of the Great South Bay Shopping Center. Assistant Chiefs Schumann, Sullo and Vergano responded along with Engines 1-9-8, 1-9-3, Ambulance 1-9-17 and Fire Police 1-9-5. Engine 1-9-8 put one line into operation and had the fire extinguished in about 10 minutes. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
5 Cars Burn in Hicksville On April 9, 2017, the Hicksville Fire Department received calls for cars on fire in the AAAA-1 car storage lot. Arriving units found multiple cars on fire and crews stretched two lines and attacked the fire. Five cars were heavily damaged. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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East Brentwood House Fire
The East Brentwood Fire Department was called to a house fire on Bushwick Avenue early on April 4, 2017. Chief of Department E. Vasquez arrived to find heavy fire in the basement. The fire spread to the first and second floors of the house. which was sectioned off into multiple apartments. Engine 3-3-1 put lines in operation on all floors of
the home. First Assistant Chief F. Vasquez handled the fire attack. Brentwood Ladder 3-2-8 assisted in laddering, searching and venting. All occupants exited prior to fire department arrival. It took about an hour to bring the fire under control. Mutual aid came from Brentwood, Central Islip and Hauppauge. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Farmingville House Fire
Early on April 11, 2017, the Farmingville Fire Department was acti- Mutual aid was requested from Holtsville, Selden, Centereach and vated for a basement fire on Hazel Avenue. Upon arrival, Chief Medford. The fire was quickly knocked down without further inci- Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez Dave Smith was met with heavy smoke showing from the structure. dent.
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Baldwin Garage Fire
On March 24, 2017, the Baldwin Fire Department was dispatched to a reported garage fire on Newton Avenue. Firefighters were met with an attached garage fire; the department’s second in less than 24 hours. Baldwin Engine 203 arrived and stretched two lines. Freeport responded as the FAST. Firefighters made a quick knockdown of the fire and kept it from spreading into the home. Units were under the command of Baldwin Chief of Department Cesare. - Fire News photo by K2M Photography.com
1 Injured in Baldwin Fire
A Baldwin home was severely damaged after a fire broke out at the Mattison Street address late on March 23, 2017. Baldwin firefighters arrived to heavy smoke and flame coming from the rear of the 1-1/2 story home. All occupants were able to escape but at least one civilian was transported to an area hospital with unknown injuries. The blaze was placed under control within 30 minutes. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Copiague LIRR Fire
The Copiague Fire Department was called to a fire along the LIRR tracks just east of the Copiague station shortly before midnight on March 20, 2017. Chief of Department Fitch arrived to find a large stack of railroad ties burning at track level. Engine 1-3-5 used its deck gun to knock down the heavy fire as a handline was brought
up to extinguish any remaining fire. The fire was brought under control in about 20 minutes. Service was completely stopped on the Babylon line while the fire was extinguished. The fire was deemed suspicious and was under investigation. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Doctor’s Office Fire in Brentwood The Brentwood Fire Department responded to a building fire a block from their headquarters on Brentwood and Second Avenue early on March 22, 2017. Engine 3-2-15 and Ladder 3-2-8 found fire in the attic of a doctor’s office. First Assistant Chief Derbyshire arrived and took command. Two lines were stretched and put into operation and had the fire under control within an hour. East Brentwood and Bay Shore also responded. The cause of the fire was under investigation. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Smithtown School Bus Fire The Smithtown Fire Department responded to a school bus fire on Parnell Drive near Plymouth Boulevard in Smithtown on February 14, 2017. Upon arrival of firefighters the bus was fully involved. No injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
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Riverhead Barn Fire
The Riverhead Fire Department responded to a fire on Twomey Avenue in Calverton on January 28, 2017. Upon arrival of firefighters, a barn used for repair of farming equipment, was found fully engulfed. Mutual aid was requested to the scene from Wading River, Ridge and Riverhead Ambulance. - Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
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Truck Fire in Eisenhower Park On March 24, 2017, East Meadow Fire Communications alerted Engine 1 and 2, and Ladder 1 for a reported car fire in Eisenhower Park. Assistant Chiefs Joseph Lennon, Phil Fertitta and Eric Becker arrived on the scene to find a pickup truck well involved. The main body of fire was knocked down in five minutes. - Fire News photo by James Kane; story by John J. O’Brien, Sr.
Centereach Car Fire Early on March 31, 2017, the Centereach Fire Department was activated for a vehicle fire in front of a residence on Mark Tree Road. Units were met with an active fire in the car’s engine compartment, which was quickly knocked down. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
1 Every 2 Days in Central Islip The Central Islip Fire Department responded to its third structure fire in six days on January 19, 2017, on Wilson Boulevard. Heavy smoke was showing on the arrival of Chief Bob McGee with fire involving the #3 side of the first floor. This was quickly brought under control, but there was smoke and heat damage throughout. East Brentwood, East Islip and Islip Terrace provided mutual aid, and the CIHauppauge VFA and Suffolk County Arson Squad were requested by Chief McGee. - Fire News photo by Charles A. Murphy, CIFD Photo Unit
And the Party Can Now Go On The Carle Place Fire Department responded to a fire at the Westbury Manor catering facility on Jericho Turnpike in Westbury on March 19, 2017. Upon arrival, fire was discovered on the roof in a large air conditioning unit. Mutual aid came from Westbury, East Williston and Mineola. Firefighters quickly extinguised the flames and vented the building. Guests for a wedding scheduled for 1100 were arriving. The fire was brought under control within 30 minutes and employees and guests were permitted to return. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
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Surf Street Structure Fire
On the morning of February 4, 2017, the Lindenhurst Fire Engine 1-6-6 and Ladder 1-6-4 quickly went to work and knocked Department responded to a structure fire on Surf Street. Under the down the fast moving fire. - Fire News photo by John Ippolito, Jr. direction of Chief of Department Mike DeGregorio, the crews of
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East Northport Home Destroyed
A recently sold home in East Northport will need to be knocked down after fire gutted it. Firefighters from East Northport were called to Elmbark Lane for a report of a structure fire, said Chief Daniel Heffernan. Firefighters arrived to find the unoccupied, two-story home fully engulfed in flames with fire showing from every window. - Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
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East Brentwood House Fire
Early on April 5, 2017, the East Brentwood Fire Department was Islip and Commack. Crews made an aggressive attack with multiactivated for a residential structure fire on Bushwick Avenue. ple lines, and the alarm was placed under control in approximately - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez Commanding units arrived to find heavy smoke and fire showing on 30 minutes. all floors. Mutual aid came from Brentwood, Hauppauge, Central
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Valley Stream Fire Extends
On March 19, 2017, the Valley Stream Fire Department was dispatched for a fire, which had extended to the second floor of a 21/2 story private dwelling. Hewlett was designated the FAST and responded with Ladder 303. Lynbrook responded with Ladder 427. Valley Stream Engine 342 stretched two lines. Valley Stream First Assistant Chief Croak had command. - Fire News photo by K2M Photography
Melville Battles Easter Sunday Brush Fire
The Melville Fire Department responded to a brush fire on April 16, 2017, on Burrs Lane. This was the third brush fire Melville handled in less than a week. The fire came within a few feet of a house and deck before it was stopped. Melville was assisted at the scene by the Dix Hills, Huntington Manor, Wyandanch and Deer Park, with Plainview and Cold Spring Harbor on standby. One Melville firefighter suffered a shoulder injury, and was transported to Huntington Hospital. Crews were under the command of Chief Jason Bernfeld and Assistant Chiefs Chris Nolan and David Kaplan. Suffolk Police Aviation assisted with a helicopter for size up. Suffolk County Fire Rescue Coordinators also provided assistance. - Fire News story by Steve Silverman, photo courtesy of the Melville FD
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Westbury Apartment Fire
Westbury firefighters were called to an apartment complex on Prospect Avenue near Brush Hollow Road for a third-floor fire, which caused a partial evacuation of residents. There were several minor injuries but none were reported to be life threatening. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Quick Work in Valley Stream
The Valley Stream Fire Department responded to a fire on the second floor of a 2-1/2 story private dwelling on Elgin Road just after noon on March 19, 2017. Engine companies promptly extinguished the blaze, while truck companies searched and vented the home. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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On April 3, 2017, Massapequa Ladder 636 and 3rd Assistant Chief Monjado responded as the FAST to a house fire on Eagle Lane in South Farmingdale. Fire was found in the attic space above the bedrooms. Crews made a fast stop. - Fire News photo by Ed Tuffy
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Massapequa Assists
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Dix Hills Minivan Fire The Dix Hills Fire Department battled a fire in a minivan on the northbound lanes of Deer Park Avenue near the South Service Road on April 5, 2017. The gas tank on the minivan ruptured, spilling gasoline onto the roadway and into a nearby storm drain. Crews were led by Chief Tom Napolitano and Assistant Chiefs Joe Williamson and Brett Tepe. New York State DEC and Huntington Harbormaster spill response were notified to respond. - Fire News story by Steve Silverman, photo courtesy Dix Hills FD
Quick Knockdown in Bethpage Early on April 9, 2017, the Bethpage Fire Department was dispatched for a house fire on North Baldwin Drive, north of North Kentucky Avenue. Firefighters arrived to heavy fire at the rear of a two-story private dwelling. Also responding were Farmingdale, Levittown and South Farmingdale. Bethpage Engine 9055 stretched two handlines. Firefighters made a quick knockdown of the fire. All occupants made it out safely and firefighters removed a large cage with birds that survived. Bethpage Chief of Department DeBobes had the command. - Fire News photo by K2M Photography.com
FDIC Keynote Speaker Capt. Angela Hughes The Opening Ceremony, held on Wednesday, April 26, 2017, featured a keynote by Captain Angela Hughes of the Baltimore County (MD) Fire Department, president of the International Association of Women in Fire and Emergency Services. “It wasn’t until later in my career that I realized the importance of attending conferences. I have had the privilege of being an instructor at FDIC for the past three years,” Hughes said. Hughes relates that she took a class where the instructor began the session by stating, “This will probably be the worst class you have ever taken!” At that very moment, she was profoundly impacted to make a difference in the lives of those who would follow as students. “My goal has been to present curriculum in a manner that is comprehensive to the unique learning style for my students. By doing this, students who are auditory learners have the same success rates as those who learn by visual or kinesthetic techniques. I believe this makes learning both fun and individualized,” Hughes added. She calls FDIC the “Super Bowl” of fire service conferences. “With an annual attendance of more than 30,000 people, it is fair to say that FDIC is one of the greatest tools for advancing the skill set of fire service personnel. The conference staff ensures that the experience is top notch for instructors, firefighters, first line supervisors, and chief officers,” she said. “The FDIC instructors are the ‘cream of the crop’ and provide each student with fantastic resources and tools to implement in the workplace.”
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Fire News, May 2017, Page 33
Attic Fire in Freeport The Freeport Fire Department responded to a house fire on Pennsylvania Avenue on March 13, 2017. Units discovered heavy smoke coming from the attic of a threestory private dwelling. Handlines were stretched and truck companies made their way into the dwelling to locate the seat of the fire. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Stubborn Fire in Centereach On April 6, 2017, the Centereach Fire Department was activated for a residential structure fire on Oxhead Road. Chief 5-5-33 was met with smoke showing from the home and requested Selden on mutual aid. The stubborn fire was hidden and took firefighters approximately 45 minutes to bring under control. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
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Roosevelt House Fire
The Roosevelt Fire Department was called to a house fire on Westfield Avenue just after midnight on April 3, 2017. Chief of Department Fennell responded to a dryer fire in the basement. Engine 733 put multiple lines in operation as the fire spread to the first and second floors through the walls. The crew from Ladder 735
laddered, searched and vented. It took about an hour to bring the fire under control with no reported injuries. Mutual aid was provided by North Merrick, Uniondale, Hempstead, South Hempstead and Baldwin. Chief Fennell was in charge of the scene. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
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Fire News, May 2017, Page 35
Looking Back
Battalion Chief William Nash and the Only Bronze Bennett Medal
By Paul Hashagen Since its inception the James Gordon Bennett Medal has been the highest award of valor presented by the New York City Fire Department. Endowed in 1869, the medal, designed by Messrs. Tiffany & Co., was to be struck in gold on an annual basis and awarded to the member of the department best entitled to the award. In 1870 two medals were struck and presented for rescues made in 1868 and 1869. This annual awarding would continue uninterrupted until 2002. No department medals were presented that year due to the events of September 11, 2001. In the early days of the paid department a very unusual occurrence took place when the Bennett Medal for the year 1872 was decided upon. During the previous years, several spectacular rescues had been made, making the committee’s choice difficult. For the year 1871 the first of two medals to be awarded was for the actions of Assistant Foreman Charles L. Kelly of Engine Company 9, during a fire at Division and Forsyth Streets on February 9. He literally climbed the awnings and shutters of an adjacent building, and broke through a top floor window of the fire building to rescue an unconscious family of three. The second medal would reward the heroics of Fireman Ambrose L. Austin of
Engine Company 3, when he responded to a blaze at 33 Bowery on April 24, 1871. Austin entered a heavily charged cellar and was able to rescue a trapped woman from the flames, while burning himself about the face and neck. Under consideration for the year 1872 was Fireman Thomas Hutchinson for his rescue at 63 Baxter Street on December 20. Hutchinson pushed into extremely heavy smoke on the second floor. Seeing he could continue no further, he made his way to the rear of the building where he exited onto the fire escape. As the smoke cleared for a brief moment, Fireman Hutchinson saw a boy dangling precariously from the third-floor balcony above. Hutchinson was able to convince the boy to let go and caught him as he dropped through the heavy smoke from the floor above. Another rescue under consideration occurred on February 15, 1872, at 23 Suffolk Street. A number of tenants were trapped on the second floor. As fire units rolled in and ladders were immediately raised, Assistant Foreman Thomas Henry of Hook and Ladder 6 climbed a ladder and dived into the smoke charged room. Henry was able to locate the desperate family. One by one, under dangerous conditions, he handed out a woman and seven children to other firemen on the ladder. A third rescue was made on December 30.
This one by William H. Nash, the Chief of the Fourth Battalion. Nash responded to 223 Division Street, where he was informed children were trapped in a rear bedroom. Without the protection of a hoseline, Nash made his way towards the rear room, which was quickly being cut-off by fire roaring from an adjacent open door. Nash dove through the fire and into the back room. Searching under extreme conditions, the chief was able to locate both children and crawl back towards the fire. For a second time, now with the children tucked under his arms, Nash dove through fire. Rolling to a stop, his precious cargo in his arms, he crawled along a hallway with flames extending overhead. He burst onto the front stoop with the children cradled in his arms, as their mother raced to his side. For his heroic actions Chief Nash was placed on the Roll of Merit. Medal Day 1873 became unique by department standards for several reasons. First, for the first time the medals would be awarded during a ceremony in the auditorium of the Medical College of Bellevue Hospital on January 31, 1873. Awards that evening were being presented for meritorious acts in 1871 and 1872. With two medals being awarded for 1871 and three for 1872 a total of five (Continued on page 43)
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EMS ACROSS THE ISLAND
Car Into Water On March 18, 2017, Copiague Fire Rescue responded to single-car MVA., The driver self-extricated, and EMS treated the driver for exposure. - Fire News photo by Eddie Coppa
Huntington Car into Water The Huntington Fire Department was dispatched for a vehicle into Huntington Harbor on West Shore Road near Gold Star Beach on April 8, 2017. Huntington firefighters responded with their heavy rescue truck and a boat, and searched the water and SUV for victims. The driver was not reported injured and was found at his home by Suffolk Police. Units were under the command of Chief Jesse Cukro, assisted by Deputy Chiefs Brian Keane and Scott Dodge. - Fire News story by Steve Silverman, photo courtesy Huntington FD
Beer Truck Crash in Melville The Melville Fire Department responded to a crash involving a beer truck and a car on March 22, 2017, on the South Service Road of the Long Island Expressway at Walt Whitman Road. Crews were under the command of Assistant Chiefs Chris Nolan and David Kaplan. The beer truck overturned on its side spilling numerous cases of Bud Light, and the car overturned on its roof. Both drivers were out of the vehicles when firefighters arrived on scene, and were transported to the Nassau University Medical Center by the Melville Rescue Squad. - Fire News story by Steve Silverman, photo courtesy Melville FD
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Massapequa Truck-Into-Building
On March 27, 2017, the Massapequa Fire Department received a call for a truck into a building on Merrick Road near Carman Boulevard. Engine 4, Ladder 6, Ladder 2, and Ambulances 638, 639 and 6310 responded. First Assistant Chief Stansberry and Chief of Department Beneville also responded. Units found a truck into a store with the driver trapped. Two additional vehicles involved in
the accident were found on Merrick Road. Firefighters went to work extricating the driver who was suffering from several injuries. Ambulance 6310 transported the driver of one car to NUMC. The driver of the truck was transported to NUMC by a Nassau County Police helicopter. - Fire News photo by Ed Tuffy
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Fire News, May 2017, Page 39
Freeport CarTruck-Bldg. MVA On March 18, 2017, the Freeport Fire Department was called to a car-versus-gas tanker MVA at East Sunrise Highway and Helen Avenue. When fire units arrived they were met with a two-vehicle accident with one aided. The one aided, considered to be nonlife threatening, was packaged and transported to an area hospital. A building at the intersection sustained minor damage after it was struck by the car. All fire department units were under the command of Freeport First Assistant Chief Matt Colgan. - Fire News photo by K2M Photography
SOB Overturn Late on March 23, 2017, the Bethpage and North Massapequa Fire Departments responded to an overturned car on the northbound Seaford Oyster Bay Expressway by Boundary Avenue. The driver was self-extricated and transported to a local hospital. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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LIRR Collision On March 17, 2017, the Mineola Fire Department responded to a call for two railroad work trains, which came in contact with each other, at the Main Street crossing of the LIRR near Front Street. One train at the crossing appeared to be off the tracks with a second train farther east of the crossing. Firefighters and EMS personnel removed an injured worker from the second train and transported him to nearby Winthrop Hospital. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Car Broadsided by Train in Malverne Malverne firefighters responded to a LIRR trainversus-vehicle accident at the Franklin Avenue crossing after the driver went around the gates and was struck broadside. Malverne police officers were first on the scene and were able to extricate the unconscious driver from the wreck. He was transported to the hospital by Nassau County Police Ambulance in serious condition. Malverne firefighters helped train personnel evacuate the riders down ladders. They also stretched a line to cover the removal of the vehicle from the tracks, which had a small gasoline leak. Rescue operations were led by Malverne Assistant Chief Richard Bopp and Malverne Police Chief John Aresta. - Fire News photos by Steve Grogan and FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Looking Back...continued members would be receiving the Bennett Medals. With a limited amount of money available in the endowment fund, only four of the five medals could be struck in gold. The fifth medal would be made of bronze. In true form, Battalion Chief William Nash requested the other members be given the gold medals; he would take the bronze medal. To the applause of the packed house, each of the four firefighters came forward and received their award. The last award of the night went to William Nash. The chief came forward to a thunderous ovation. He was presented the only bronze Bennett Medal ever awarded by the New York City Fire Department. No stranger to heroic actions, the six-foot tall Battalion Chief Nash, who sported a large handlebar mustache, would become noted for his fearless rescues using ladders while a member of the FDNY. Prior to his joining the fire department, Nash had served with distinction in the Union Army during the Civil War as a member of the 1st United States Sharpshooters, a special unit that wore dark green uniforms (the camouflage of the day) and used high-powered target and Sharp’s rifles. Nash was cited for heroism several times, and was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel by the war’s end. In 1868 Nash joined the FDNY. He was appointed to Engine 7 on Chambers Street. In 1869 he became one of the first members of the department placed on the Roll of Merit. It was for the rescue of five people from a fifth-floor window, while perched on the top-most rung of a ladder during a fire on East 14th Street. He would be cited again in 1873 and 1874 for his rescue work. The fearless chief was killed in the line-of-duty during the exhibition of the Scott-Uda aerial ladder on September 14, 1875. As the ladder was run up to its full extension several members climbed into position with Chief Nash on the top-most fly of the wooden aerial ladder. Suddenly a loud crack echoed across the square as the device failed. Six members of the department were thrown from the collapsing ladder onto the cobbles below. Three members: Fireman Philip J. Maus of Ladder 6, Fireman William Hughes of Engine 9 and Battalion Chief William H. Nash were killed.
Levittown MVA
On February 15, 2017, the Levittown Fire Department responded to an MVA on Hempstead Turnpike by Center Lane. Crews secured the car, and the driver refused medical attention. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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Deer Park MVA Just after midnight on April 8, 2017, the Deer Park Fire Department responded to a car-into-house MVA. On arrival it was discovered that a car, traveling at a high rate of speed, left the road and took out a telephone pole. One of the people in the car was injured and transported to Good Samaritan Hospital. - Fire News photo by BTFirePhoto.com
1 Dead , 4 Injured in N. Lindenhurst MVA The North Lindenhurst Fire Department responded to an MVA with overturn and entrapment on New Highway on the evening of April 2, 2017. Units encountered several vehicles involved with an SUV overturned after being hit from behind. One person in the SUV was trapped and Heavy Rescue 1-11-5 and Engine 1-11-1 handled the extrication. Members then were made aware of a vehicle almost two blocks away that was involved. The driver of that vehicle was seriously injured, as were three people in the SUV. The driver of another car fled the scene. The injured were taken to Good Samaritan Hospital and Nassau University Medical Center by ambulances. One person from the SUV succumbed to his injuries the next morning. A total of five vehicles were involved, two of which were parked. Chief of Department Newman was in charge of the scene. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
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Fire News, May 2017, Page 45
Fall Victim Medevac’d
On April 11, 2017, a tree trimmer fell from a tree on West 4th Street in Deer Park. The tree trimmer fell about 25 to 35 feet. He was stabilized by the Deer Park Fire Department’s Rescue and transported to a waiting Suffolk County Police medevac helicopter that had landed at the May Moore Elementary School on Central Avenue. The condition of the tree trimmer was unknown when transported. - Fire News photos by BTFirePhoto.com
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5-Car MVA in Front of 6th Pct.
School Bus MVA in Melville
Recently, the Suffolk Police Department and Selden Fire Department EMS were called to Middle Country Road and North Ocean Avenue for a five-car MVA, with one vehicle on fire. Multiple area departments transpored the victims to local hospital all suffering non-life threatening injuries. It appears most of the vehicles were stopped in a turning lane when they were hit by an eastbound vehicle. The accident happened directly in front of the 6th Precinct. Coram, Farmingville and Centereach also responded. - Fire News photo by Kevin Ryan
The Melville Fire Department and Suffolk Police responded to an MVA on March 24, 2017, involving a mini school bus and a car on Wolf Hill Road and New York Avenue. The driver of the car was transported to Huntington Hospital by the Melville Rescue Squad with non-life threatening injuries. There were no passengers aboard the bus and the bus driver was not injured. Unites were under the command of Captain Tom Niemczyk. - Fire News story by Steve Silverman, photo courtesy Melville FD
Tree Hits House and Propane Truck in Lloyd Harbor
Setauket MVA
The Huntington Fire Department was dispatched to the Village of Lloyd Harbor on April 10, 2017, for a report of wires and a tree down on a propane truck on West Neck Road. Crews checked the truck for leaks and damage. Units were under the command of Assistant Chief Rob Conroy assisted by Deputy Chiefs Brian Keane and Scott Dodge. - Fire News story by Steve Silverman, photo courtesy of Chuck Brady
In March, the Setauket Fire Department responded to a three-car MVA with several ambulances, two chiefs and fire police. The driver of one vehicle might have been living in his car. A great deal of garbage had to be removed in order to attend to him. He and the driver of a second vehicle were taken to Stony Brook University hospital. The driver of the truck refused medical attention. - Fire News photo by Robert O’Rourk
6 Injured in Levittown MVA
Hicksville Handles MVA
On February 17, 2017, the Levittown Fire Department responded to an MVA at the intersection of Pilot Lane and Jerusalem Avenue. Six people were injured and taken to local hospitals. Crews secured the cars and applied speedy dry to large fluid spills in the roadway. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
On March 13, 2017, the Hicksville Fire Department responded to an MVA at the intersection of West Old Country Road and Charlotte Avenue. One person was transported to the hospital and crews cleaned up a large fluid spill. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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Fire News, May 2017, Page 47
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Page 48, Fire News, May 2017
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Postal Worker Hit in N. Babylon
On April 11, 2017, a postal worker in North Babylon on Prairie Drive was severely injured when a car hit him while he was getting mail from the back of his mail truck. The car severed one leg and severely injured the other. He was airlifted by the Suffolk County Police helicopter to Stony Brook University Hospital. A Go Fund Me site has been set up for Mailman Michael Martinez at www.gofundme.com/mailman-michaelmartinez. - Fire News photo by BTFirePhoto.com
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Fire News, May 2017, Page 49
Selden MVA
On March 4, 2017, the Selden Fire Department responded to a multi-vehicle MVA at Middle Country Road and County Road 83. Mutual aid came from Coram and Centereach. - Fire News photo by Steve Walsh
3-Car MVA in Huntington Station
The Huntington Manor Fire Department, Huntington Community First Aid Squad and Suffolk Police responded to a three-vehicle crash on Jericho Turnpike and Pidgeon Hill Road in Huntington Station on February 14, 2017. Firefighters were under the command of Chief Mike DePasquale and Third Assistant Chief Jim Glidden. One injured patient was transported to Huntington Hospital by Huntington Community Ambulance. - Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
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MVA into Melville Building The Melville Fire Department responded to a carinto-building MVA on Walt Whitman Road on February 18, 2017. The car crashed through the side of the building, heavily damaging a chiropractor’s office. Two occupants were in the SUV when firefighters arrived, and were extricated. They were evaluated at the scene by the Melville Rescue Squad and declined transport. Units were under the command of Chief Jason Bernfeld and Assistant Chiefs David Kaplan and Bill Schmitt. - Fire News story by Steve Silverman, photo courtesy Melville FD
4 Hurt in LIE Crash The Suffolk Police, Central Islip-Hauppauge Ambulance and Central Islip Fire Department responded to a chain reaction MVA on the westbound Long Island Expressway between exits 55 and 56 on February 21, 2017. Four people were injured, including a child. All westbound lanes were closed from exit 56 while a helicopter landed to Medevac one of the seriously injured occupants to Stony Brook University Hospital. Lakeland Fire Department and Central Islip-Hauppauge ambulances transported the other three patients to Southside Hospital in Bay Shore. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
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Brookhaven Fire Police Installation
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Fire News, May 2017, Page 55
Huntington St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The Huntington Community First Aid Squad lead by Chief Casey Orr marched in the Huntington St. Patrick's Day Parade. - Fire News photos by Tony Cruz
Kings Park St. Patrick’s Day Parade
On March 4, 2017, the Kings Park Fire Department had their Annual St Patrick’s Day Parade. Hundreds of marchers including the Melville Fire Department and other departments from Huntington and Suffolk County took part in the parade. County Executive Steven Bellone also was a guest marcher. - Fire News photos by Tom Pesce
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Hose Drill in Montauk On the evening of March 20, 2017, with the kind cooperation of the Atlantic Bluffs Club on Old Montauk Highway, the Montauk Fire Department conducted a hotel fire and water supply drill. According to Chief Vincent Franzone, the location was perfect for testing the coverage of the Department’s hoses, the capacity of the available hydrants, and the effect of changing hose attachments. - Fire News photos by Richard Lewin
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Fire News, May 2017, Page 57
Fire House Kitchen By Ray Cooney Anti-Oxidizing Chocolate Balls While filming an episode of Firehouse Kitchen, I was visited by a very special person - Ann DeGregoria. Ann is a holistic-nutritional therapist. She said she had some delicious holistic recipes that could help firefighters. The one that came to mind was anti-oxidizing chocolate balls. These chocolate balls help with joint inflammation and blood circulation. I set up the shoot. Firehouse Kitchen is going holistic! The whole crew looked up as Ann entered the set. She’s a very attractive woman, in her early 40s. She is outspoken and has a smile that lights up a room. When the show started, I said, “OK, let’s get cooking.” Ann replied, “There is no cooking. Not every delicious treat has to be baked or fried.” We mixed the ingredients together, from cocoa powder to butter, and a whole lot of other ingredients that I didn’t think would be in the dessert. Have you ever heard of rice syrup? Ann was unbelievable at giving examples of how these ingredients can help with ailments. Ann explained how tart cherries helped her with psoriasis and joint pain. After the mixing was done, we made this brown — I wanna’ say slop — into little balls. We put them on a tray, sprinkled them with coconut and put them in the fridge for an hour to an hour and a half. OK, now it’s time to taste. Ann asked me if would I say something if I didn’t like them.
I told her of course I would! That would be great television! Fortunately for Ann, they were delicious. If you’re looking for healthy holistic treats and want to learn more about holistic nutrition go to Ann’s website: foodisthymedicine.com (Food Is Thy Medicine). You will definitely see Ann on Firehouse Kitchen again. Get ready for Season 6 of Firehouse Kitchen starting in April on NYC Life. Also check your local listings to find out where you can find us. If you want your firehouse to be on
Firehouse Kitchen, send an e-mail to firehousekitchentv@gmail.com or message me on FaceBook, once you like the Firehouse Kitchen FaceBook page.
Anti-Oxidizing Chocolate Balls 1/2 cup of organic cocoa powder 1/2 stick of organic butter 1 Banana blended 1 cup organic peanut butter 1/2 cup tart cherries blended 1/3 cup walnuts grounded 1/3 cup coconut chopped 1/3 cup organic oatmeal 1/3 cup rice syrup 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Mix all ingredients in a big bowl. Make mix in to little balls. Arrange on a serving tray. Sprinkle balls with coconut. Place tray in refrigerator for 1 to 1-1/2 hours and enjoy this healthy treat.
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Ridge 76th Installation
The Ridge Fire Department recently held their 76th Annual Installation Dinner at East Wind Caterers. Congratulations to Chief of Department Michael Gianmugnai alone with 1st Assistant Chief Louis Kaiser and 2nd Assistant Chief Wesley Phillips and its members. - Fire News photos by Ron Monteleone
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FASNY Winter Games Congratulations to the Farmingville Fire Department, which was the winner of the broomball competition at the FASNY Winter Games. (Left to right): Doug Van Etten, FASNY; Eric Jacobson; Rich Houlihan; Taylor Kern; Brandon Bassett; Justin Russo; Bob McConville, FASNY. (Left): Patrick Perry, Brookhaven Fire Department; and Sarah Stephani, Hagerman Fire Department take a breather at the games.
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Fire News, May 2017, Page 61
Levittown 67th Installation Hempstead Town Supervisor Anthony J. Santino (second right) along with Councilman Gary Hudes (second left) presents official Town of Hempstead Citations to honorees during the Levittown Fire Department 67th Annual Installation Dinner held at the Marriott located in Uniondale. (Left to right): Levittown Fire Department Commissioner Joe Bentivegna, Councilman Hudes, ex-Chief Thomas Brennan, Chief Thomas Steinwall, Supervisor Santino and Legislator Dennis Dunne, Sr. - Fire News photo provided
Ridge Scores at FASNY Winter Games FASNY congratulated the Ridge Fire Department for the teams outstanding effort and teamwork at the Annual FASNY Winter Games which were held in Cortland February 3 to 5, 2017. With two teams the Ridge Fire Department took first place in the Tubing Race, second in the Stokes basket carry, third in the tug of war and first in the hose relay. - Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
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Aircraft Emergency Seminar
The Suffolk County Fire Chiefs Council hosted a seminar on Aircraft Emergencies In Your Back Yard on March 24, 2017, at Suffolk Community College's Brentwood Campus in Van Nostrand Theater. (Middle bottom): Instructors for the evenings were (left to right) Joseph Marino, Deputy Chief Port Authority NY and NJ; Jack Kreckie, Chief of Operations ARFF; Erik Grosof, Senior Advisor NTSB; David Russell, Captain Port Authority NY and NJ;
F.J. Spinelli, Deputy Chief, Hartsdale Fire Department. (Right bottom left to right)- Suffolk County Fire Chiefs Council Officers: Irene Bodkin, Treasurer; Nick Luparella, Sergeant-at-Arms; Tom Kriklava, 2nd Vice-President; Scott Thebold, President; John ‘Chip’ Bancroft, 1st Vice-President; Bob Craine, Corresponding Secretary. - Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
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South Fork RIT Drill Members of the East Hampton, Sag Harbor and Montauk Fire Departments gathered at the East Hampton Town Emergency Services Training Center for a combined RIT drill on March 30, 2017. The exercise, which included evolutions practicing extricating a downed firefighter in a basement, was organized to help coordinate the efforts of the RIT teams on the South Fork of Long Island. - Fire News photos by Charlotte Campbell
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Lupinacci, Raia at Cold Spring Install
Assemblyman Chad A. Lupinacci and Town Clerk Jo-Ann Raia recently joined the Cold Spring Harbor Fire Department for their 2017 installation of officers. Lupinacci offered remarks at the gathering and awarded the installed officers with New York State Assembly Citations for their service to the community. - Fire News photo provided
Levittown’s Brennan Honored for 50
At a recent ceremony, the Levittown Fire Department honored exChief Thomas Brennan for his 50 years of dedicated service to the Levittown Fire Department and to the community. -Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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Lakeview Easter Egg Hunt On April 8, 2017, members of the Lakeview Fire Department assisted the West Hempstead Lions Club with their annual Easter egg hunt and photos with the Easter bunny. The annual event is held at Halls Pond Park. - Fire News photo by K2M Photography.com
Lynbrook’s McDermott Honored On April 9, 2017, the Lynbrook Fire Department held a renaming ceremony for Lynbrook Fire Headquarters in honor of ex-Chief James McDermott who passed away in August 2016. ExChief McDermott joined the department’s Rescue Hook, Ladder and Bucket Company No. 1 in 1980, became the company’s captain in 1989, and served as a company trustee from 1992 to 2016. He went on to serve as Chief of Department in 2002 and again in 2012. To this day, he is the only person to have served as Chief of the Lynbrook Fire Department on two separate occasions. - Fire News photos by K2M Photography.com
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St. James Juniors Fundraise The St. James Junior Fire Department held their annual food drive at King Kullen. At the end of the day the donations and support filled over 12 shopping carts and raised over $600. The food donations, along with the funds raised, went to support The Smithtown Food Pantry. - Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
Nassau Burn Center Hosts Fundraiser Hempstead Town Councilman Anthony D’Esposito (left) attends the Nassau County Firefighters Burn Center Fundraiser held at Port Hole Restaurant located in Oceanside. (Left to right): Councilman D’Esposito, East Rockaway Fire Department ex-Chief Mark Murray, Event Leader Mark Murray of Rockville Centre, Senator Todd Kaminsky, Lynbrook Fire Department ex-Chief John O’Reilly of Lynbrook and Leigh Tyrrel of Floral Park, CoChair Nassau County Burn Center. - Fire News photo provided
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Water Rescue Practice Atlantic Beach Rescue’s Nat Etrog and Kyle ‘Crash’ Cadigan practicing water rescue victim retrieval during Nassau County Fire Service Academy Flood Rescue Operations Class at USCG Station Jones Beach. - Fire News photo by Jennifer Hartnett, AB Rescue-PIO
East End Working Together Responders from East Hampton, Sag Harbor, and the Montauk get together after a recent drill on the south fork of Long Island. - Fire News photo by Charlotte Campbell
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Wantagh Hosts MCI Drill
The Wantagh Fire Department hosted a Mass Casualty Incident exercise at Jones Beach State Park on April 2, 2017. The exercise simulated the crash of a vehicle into a large crowd with multiple victims. Details of the incident were modeled after recent terrorist events, and the drill was designed to be as realistic as possible. For the safety of responders, participants were aware that they were responding to a drill but were not aware of the details or magnitude. This exercise was the culmination of several months of planning and coordination by members of the Wantagh Fire Department. The New York State Department of Homeland Security/Office of Emergency Management (OEM) and the Nassau County OEM assisted by providing equipment, props, make-up and manpower. Participants included the Wantagh, Seaford, Bellmore, North Bellmore, Merrick, North Merrick, Levittown, East Meadow, Massapequa, Jericho, Bethpage, Syosset and Point-Lookout Fire Departments. Also participating were Bellmore-Merrick and WantaghLevittown Volunteer Ambulance Corps, NCPD Emergency Ambulance Bureau, NYS Park Police, and Jones Beach EMS. The victims were played by Boy Scout Explorers. Victims were initially treated at the scene and transported to St. Joseph Hospital in Bethpage and NUMC in East Meadow. - Fire News story by Kevin Regan, WFD PIO; photos by Kevin Imm
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125 Years to the Day On February 6, 2017, the Hicksville Fire Departments Independent Engine and Hose Company #2 celebrated its 125th anniversary on the same day it received its charter on February 6, 1892. The company officers were installed and the company was honored for its 125 years of service to the Hicksville community. At the installation Firefighter Michael Kretz was honored for his dedicated service to the department and was made an Honorary Captain of the company. - Fire News photos by Kevin Imm
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Fire News, May 2017, Page 73
Franklin Square Installation
(Above): The Chiefs and Captains installed for 2017. (Left to right): 2nd Assistant Chief Dominick Labianca, Jessica Labianca, Sonya Capobianco, Chief Joseph Capobianco, 1st Assistant Chief John Salzman, Gabby Golden. - Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
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Inwood Installation
The Inwood Fire Department held its 130th annual installation dinner Saturday March 11, 2017, at the Inwood Country Club. Anthony R. Rivelli was installed as Chief of Department. Also honored were outgoing Chief Frank Parise and Commissioner and former Chief George Miller, Sr., for 50 years of service. - Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
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Brookhaven Installation and Awards Dinner
- Fire News photos by Jim Dunn
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Wantagh 118th Installation
The Wantagh Fire Department held their 118th Inspection and Installation Dinner on March 4, 2017, at the Crest Hollow Country Club. The highlights of the evening included the administration of the oath of office to the officers, assistant chiefs and Chief of Department. Thirty-eight members who have served for five to 45 years received service awards and a member of the Ladies Auxiliary was honored for serving 50 years. James Bloomfield is the Chief of Department for 2017, his second year in that
post. He was elected Lieutenant of Ladder 1 in May 2002 and Captain in May 2004. In 2010 he was elected to the position of Assistant Chief and he became Chief of Department in January 2016. Also installed were First Assistant Chief Joseph Gross III, Second Assistant Kenneth Kelly and Third Assistant Thomas Bloomfield. His mother, Dee, and wife Margaret, are both members of the Ladies Auxiliary. Kathy True, a lifelong resident of Wantagh and a past-President of the Ladies Auxiliary,
was recognized for her 50 years of service. Kathy’s commitment to the Ladies Auxiliary reaches beyond Wantagh. She was President of the Nassau County Firemen’s Association Ladies Auxiliary in 1981-82 and is a member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Firemen’s Association of the State of New York (LAFASNY). Kathy received the LAFASNY Member Recognition Award in 2015 for her long time and tireless commitment to the Association. - Fire News photos provided by Wantagh PIO
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Deer Park’s Theiling Gets Eagle Scout
On March 12, 2017, at the Deer Park Fire house, Deer Park Firefighter Tom Theiling’s son Michael earned his Eagle Scout with Boys Scout Troop 86 of Deer Park. The Deer Park Fire Department presented Michael with an award of congratulations. - Fire News photos by BTFirePhoto.com
Storm Damage
The Kings Park Fire Department and Suffolk Police responded to several weather related incidents during a storm that struck the Northeast on March 14, 2017. On Meadow Road in Kings Park a large tree fell across the roadway taking down wires along with the electrical service to a residence. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
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Bellmore Honors 50-Year Member Gorge Zipper
The Bellmore Fire Department honored 50-year member George Zipper at their 120th Annual Installation Dinner held on February 25, 2017, at the Hyatt Regency in Hauppauge. Congratulations and best of luck to all the newly installed officers. Chief’s Office: Chief of Department, Thomas Stoerger; First Assistant Chief, Daniel Holl; Second Assistant Chief, Peter C. Schmalenberger. Engine 601: Captain, Brandon Conway; Lieutenant, James Constantin; Engineer (601) Michael Massaro; Engineer (604) Robert Frazer. Engine 602: Captain, Robert Taylor; Lieutenant, Michael Stein; Engineer, Dennis Roskop. Engine 603: Captain, Salvatore Ancona; Lieutenant, Scott Maltz; Engineer, Joseph Occhipinti. Ladder 606: Captain, Michael Irving; Lieutenant, Christopher O’Brien; Engineer, William Brust. Rescue 607; Captain, Matthew O’Connor; Engineer, Jason Roxburgh; Engineer, Timothy Gibney. Fire Medic Squad: Captain, Richard Holzhauer; Lieutenant (6011) Jeffrey Anderson; Lieutenant (6012) Jacquelynn Taylor; Lieutenant (6013) Rami Kranz; Engineer (6099/6011) Scott Rosenbaum; Engineer (6012) Ann Marie Flanagan; Engineer (6013) Pamela Hondema. Fire Police Squad: Captain, George Zipper; Lieutenant, Dennis Rich: Lieutenant, John Cotter. Ladies Auxiliary: President, Susan Ancona; Vice-President, Mary Grace Schmalenberger; Recording Secretary, Karena Ancona; Corresponding Secretary, Joan Gunther; Treasurer, Phyllis Noon; Financial Secretary, Joanne Miller; Sergeant-at-Arms, Emily Varga. - Fire News photos by Kim Versheck
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Floral Park Alert Engine Company Honors Members
Congratulation to Honorary Chief Bill Bedell, Sr., for 50 years of service, Firefighter John Perry for 40 years of service, and to Firefighter Gary Gronert for 45 years of service. Combined the three members of the Floral Park Fire Department's Alert Engine Company have given 135 years of dedicated service to the department and to the citizens of Floral Park. Thank you for your service! -Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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East Islip Installation East Islip Fire Department held its 2017 Annual Installation dinner at Larkfield Manor in East Northport. (Left to right): 1st Assistant Chief Andy Oliveri, 50-year member and past-Chief Charlie Oross, Chief Thomas Zimmer and 2nd Assistant Chief Mark Charvat. - Fire News photo by Kevin J. Parkan
Long Beach FBA Officers Installed On March 18, 2017, Senator Todd Kaminsky attended the Fireman’s Benevolent Association of the City of Long Beach biannual dinner for newly elected officials. Senator Kaminsky presented proclamations to the incoming officers and trustees. (Left to right): Bruce Aldewereld, Trustee; John Larson, President; Ely Altarac, Secretary; William Notholt, Vice-President; Michael Kerr, Outgoing President; Senator Todd Kaminsky; Robert Del Prete, First VicePresident; City Manager Jack Schnirman; Joseph Miller, Second Vice-President; Sidney Langstein, Treasurer; Joe Sardo, Trustee; and Scott Glazer, Trustee. - Fire News photo by Tyler Dillon
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Nassau Firefighters Give Van to Wounded Veterans On March 25, 2017, at a ceremony in front of the Nassau County Firefighters Museum at Mitchell Field in Garden City, Nassau County Firefighters Operation Wounded Warrior turned over the keys to a new Ford 12-passenger van to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) to help transport Nassau County wounded and disabled veterans to medical treatment and trips to the VA Hospital at Northport. The new van, painted gray, yellow and white, is embossed with the NCFF-OWW logo. The New Hyde Park and Floral Park Fire Departments flew a huge American flag from their
rigs over the new van for the ceremony. Representatives of the VA Hospital, DAV, and the museum were also on hand for the ceremony, which was conducted by NCFF-OWW Chairman Joseph O’Grady of the Floral Park Fire Department. A wounded and blind soldier who will be transported in the new van was on hand and spoke. The van was made possible by fundraising events held by Nassau fire departments, as well as private citizens and groups, who support the aim of the firefighters to help wounded warriors. - Fire News photos by Andrew Carpenter; story by Steve Grogan
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Suffolk County Fire District Officers Association
Congratulations to President Jay Eagan, 1st Vice President John Manzi, 2nd Vice President Joseph Badala, Sergeant at Arms Bob McConville, Secretary Lawrence Santangelo, Treasurer Joseph P DeStefano, and to Chaplain Edwin Brooks, as they lead the Suffolk County Fire Districts Officers Association in 2017. Well done to
immediate past-President Rudy Sunderman, Jr,. for his dedication and commitment to the organization. Congratulations to Joe DeStefano on being chosen and receiving the organization's first award for Commissioner of the Year. -Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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Nassau County Association of Fire Districts Installation
Congratulations to President Robert F. Hockenjos, 1st VicePresident Paul Cartier, 2nd Vice-President Ralph Raymond, Secretary Tricia Shields and Treasurer Ralph Esposito as they lead the Nassau County Association of Fire Districts in 2017. - Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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Great River Installation Dinner
Great River Fire Department held its 2017 annual installation dinner at the Irish Coffee Pub in East Islip. (Left to right): 1st Assistant Chief Mike Viniotis, Chief Robert Sudano and outgoing Chief William Vogel. Senator Phil Boyle was honored for 30 years dedicated service with the Great River Fire Department, here pictured with Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone. - Fire News photos by Kevin J. Parkan
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Bohemia Installation and Thanks for 65 Years of Service On March 11, 2017, the Bohemia Fire Department held the installation of their chiefs and officers at the Spa at Eastwind, where Sterling Haynes was installed as Chief of the Department along with Brian O’Neill and Tom Iwanejko as his Assistant Chiefs. That evening, the Department also acknowledged Larry Comodo for 65 years of service. At 96 years of age, Larry still comes down to the firehouse and is an inspiration to all who meet him. The Chief’s Office would like to thank Larry and his family for his years of dedication to the department as well as the community. - Fire News photos by Ron Pacchiana
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DAVID RUSSELL ELECTED TO FEMSA BOARD David Russell, of Fire & Safety Services, Ltd., was elected to the Board of Trustees of FEMSA in late September at their annual meeting in Nashville Tennessee. His term of office began on January 1, 2017, and runs for three years. David was appointed as the head of the membership committee as part of his Board duties. David is the Principal and President of Fire & Safety Services, Ltd., of South Plainfield, New Jersey. He has worked for Fire & Safety Services off and on since his father, William, bought the business from its founder, Walter Runyon in 1982. After college, David joined the Metuchen Volunteer Fire Department in his hometown and was an active member there for 12 years, rising to the position of Lieutenant. In 1999, David decided to leave his career as a litigation attorney and return to the business and officially took over principal ownership and the Presidency of the company in 2006. In his free time, David enjoys
spending time with his wife and daughter, and watching his daughter excel as a middle school distance runner. David also finds relaxation by throwing his body around as a goalkeeper in a competitive Over-40 soccer league near his home. Fire & Safety Services. has been serving New Jersey’s emergency services since 1964 and has been representing Pierce Manufacturing in the State since 1977. Over the years, Fire & Safety Services has grown into the premier vendor and service center for fire apparatus in the State; with nearly 1500 Pierce apparatus sold over the course of 40 years. Fire and Safety boasts a service team of approximately 20 service technicians both in house and on the road and a service management team lead by Vincent Scalera and Sean O’Connor. The sales staff of 9 representatives is overseen by the Director of Sales, Bob Emery.
TV HEROES JOIN THE REAL HEROES FOR FIREFIGHTER CANCER AWARENESS “Chicago Fire” television actors showed their support of the fire service to create awareness for firefighter cancer at the industry only Fire Department Instructors Conference (FDIC). “Chicago Fire” actors, Eamonn Walker (Battalion Chief Wallace Boden), Dave Eigenberg (Christopher Herrmann), and Steve Chikerotis (District Chief Walker), were present in the LION booth on Friday, April 28, to launch the Not in Our House, cancer awareness campaign, and to raise money for the Firefighter Cancer Support Network (FCSN), a non-profit that provides assistance to firefighters and their families after a cancer diagnosis. FDIC attendees had the opportunity to meet the actors, receive their autograph on a printed Not in Our House poster, and have their picture taken with them. In addition, LION and FCSN hosted a ‘Fill the Boot’ donation, and a raffle for either a leather helmet signed by the cast of Chicago Fire, or a behind the scenes trip to the set of Chicago Fire. All proceeds will be donated to FCSN. “LION stands behind cancer awareness, because it aligns with LION’s mission to fulfill the personal safety of first responders. LION is excited to donate $2,000 to kick off the fundraising at the show,” Mark Smith, Senior Vice President, LION. To learn more about the Not in Our House campaign, and how to become a partner, visit notinourhouse.com.
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Nassau County Fire Commission Awards
The Nassau County Fire Commission held their annual awards ceremony for 2017 on April 5, 2017. The event was held at the Francis X. Pendl Memorial Nassau County Firefighters Museum and Education Center in Garden City. Outside the ceremony an arch detail was made possible by ladders from Floral Park and Mineola. The awards for the night included: a silver medal of valor to East Rockaway Firefighter Andrew Ochtera and exChief Edward Reicherter for their rescue of a victim in an Ocean Avenue house fire in April of 2016; a silver medal of valor to Oyster Bar Assistant Chief Frank Mantgari, East Norwich Assistant Chief Griffin Rosen, and Sea Cliff ex-Chief Ernest Longobucco for their rescue of a firefighter at a house fire in Mill Neck in June 2016; a silver medal of valor to Freeport Lieutenant Corey Cooke for his actions in getting multiple occupants safely out of a Roosevelt Avenue house fire in September 2016; and an EMS citation award for Port Washington Assistant Chief Bryan Vogeley for saving the life of a member of his department after he began choking while out at dinner one night. Unit citation awards were presented for actions at a train derailment/collision in Garden City in October of 2016 to Westbury, New Hyde Park, Mineola, Garden City Park, Floral Park, Franklin Square and Munson, and Garden City; a unit citation to the Hicksville Fire Department for their actions at a double house fire on Alpine Lane in March 2016; a unit citation to the Rockville Centre Fire Department for their actions at a pedestrian struck in the village; a unit citation to the Lawrence Cedarhurst Fire Department for rescuing a trapped occupant at an apartment fire on Cedarhurst Avenue in January 2015; and a unit citation to the East Rockaway Fire Department. - Fire News photos by K2M Photography.com
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Family Corner
Walter Gordon and his son Nicholas Gordon are both members of the Ridge Fire Department Phoenix Company 2. -Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
Firefighter Danielle McCarty with her husband, Firefighter Patrick McCarty, of the Selden Fire Department at a recent live burn drill. - Fire News photo by Vinny Ammirati Ex-Captain Darran Handshaw of the Stony Brook Fire Department, and son, tiny Firefighter Corwin Handshaw. - Fire News photo courtesy of Stefanie Handshaw
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MOTLEY CREWS OF THE MONTH
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Selden Fire Department Dixon Engine Company 3 members after a live burn drill in March 2017. - Fire News photo by Vinny Ammirati
The Sag Harbor Fire Department at the Montauk St. Patrick’s Day parade. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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MOTLEY CREWS OF THE MONTH
Smithtown firefighters after operating at the scene of a school bus fire on February 14, 2017. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
Truck Company 2 of the Mineola Fire Department along with Chief 1602 responded as the FAST to a house fire in Carle Place on April 2, 2017. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
(Left to right): 1st Assistant Chief Tim Blewett of Ronkonkoma; 2nd Assistant Chief AJ Anderson of Nesconset; 2nd Assistant Chief Kevin Murray, 3rd Assistant Chief Eric Cook, and ex-Chief Karl Krumseik, Sr.; all from Ronkonkoma at the Ronkonkoma Fire Department’s Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade. - Fire News photo by Kevin Murray
Bridgehampton Juniors at the Montauk St. Patrick’s Day parade. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
Members of the Smithtown Fire Department drilling with Ladder 4-2-7 at the Mankuski Park Training Facility on April 2, 2017. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
North Patchogue at the Patchogue St. Patrick’s Day parade. - Fire News photo by Steve Walsh
The North Patchogue Fire Department at the Montauk St. Patrick’s Day parade. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
The East Hampton Fire Department at the Montauk St. Patrick’s Day parade. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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MOTLEY CREWS OF THE MONTH
Members of the Saint James Fire Department standing by at the scene of a house fire on Three Sisters Road. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
Copiague Water Rescue Team members (left to right): Lt. Tom Messian, Janet Hack and Patrick Cesare. - Fire News photo by Eddie Coppa
Members of Merrick Hook and Ladder Company No. 1 following the annual Rockville Centre St. Patrick’s Day Parade. - Fire News photo by K2M Photography.com
Members of the Wantagh Fire Department prior to the start of the annual Farmingdale St. Patrick’s Day Parade. - Fire News photo by K2M Photography.com
Islip firefighters after operating at a stubborn house fire on Arizona Street in Brentwood. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
The crew of Kings Park Rescue 4-1-9 after operating at house fire on March 3, 2017. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
The crew from Nesconset Fire Department Rescue 449 after operating at an MVA on March 2, 2017. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
Chiefs of the Uniondale Fire Department at a Roosevelt house fire on April 3, 2017. (Left to right): Assistant Chief Skelly, Assistant Chief Seibert and Chief of Department Smith. - Fire News photo by K2M Photography.com
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Up Close & Personal
Fire Marshals Get Together First Assistant Chief Thomas Butler of the Islip Fire Department after operating at a house fire on Arizona Avenue in Brentwood on March 24, 2017. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
Smithtown Fire Department former Commissioner and ex-Captain Robert Regulinski chauffeurs Engine 4-2-5 at a school bus fire on February 14, 2017. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
Brookhaven Town Fire Marshal Michael Matteo, Suffolk County Fire Marshal Brett Martinez, Stony Brook University Fire Marshal Scott Gershowitz and Suffolk County Accelerant Detection K9 Sasha get together at the Long Island Mega Show. -Fire News photo by Dennis Whittam
Some Fire Riders visit the Fire News booth at the Long Island Mega Show -Fire News photo by Dennis Whittam
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Commack Firefighter Scott Watson of Company 4 after operating at a house fire on March 3, 2017. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
Chief Dave Smith of the Farmingville Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Amanda Coffey
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Retired SCFRES K-9 Jul Remembered
Lakeview Delivers the Easter Bunny
It is with sadness that the Suffolk County Fire Service and the members of the ATF announce that retired Accelerant Detection K-9 Jul passed away. Jul was a familiar face at many fire scenes and was loved by the children who she worked with at many fire safety days and school presentations. Jul recently retired from the Suffolk County Fire Service and was still being cared for by her handler and partner, Suffolk County Fire Marshal Brett Martinez. Rest easy our little friend, you have served the fire service well. - Fire News photo by Dennis Whittam
Lakeview firefighters delivered the Easter Bunny to the Annual Easter Egg Hunt at Halls Pond in West Hempstead on April 8, 2017. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Live Burn in Sag Harbor Members of the Sag Harbor Fire Department, assisted by members of the East Hampton RIT, conducted a live burn drill at a residence scheduled for demolition at the corner of Lincoln Street and Harding Place in Sag Harbor on the evening of March 22, 2017. - Fire News photos by Charlotte Campbell
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Obituary
Patchogue’s Francis ‘Herk’ Ambrose On March 4, 2017, the Patchogue Fire Department and the Suffolk County Police Department laid to rest Honorary-Chief Francis ‘Herk’ Ambrose. Herk was a 55-year member of the department who will be missed by everyone who knew him. May he rest in peace as he watches over us. Chief Joseph Arabia would like to thank his department and neighboring departments for a job well done, “on this day as we sent our Brother Francis Herk Ambrose to the place we will all call home one day. What a memorable day for us, and one that I am sure one day Herk will let us have it for, but today we gave back everything he deserved. “Rest in peace 537 and don’t forget one of those cigars you’re carrying is for Jack.” -Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
Massapequa’s Ex-Commissioner Eugene Bryson The Massapequa Fire Department is sad to announce the death of ex-Fire Commissioner Eugene Bryson, who passed away on March 3, 2017. Gene joined the Massapequa Fire Department on September 10, 1948, as a member of Ladder Company 2. From 1956 to 1957 he served as Captain of that company. He was elected as a Fire Commissioner of the Massapequa Fire District in 1973 and served until 1978. In 1978 he became the Fire District Superintendent and served in that position until 1982. For many years until his death, Gene served as the Massapequa Fire Department Chaplin. Gene will be greatly missed by members of the department and by many residents of Massapequa who knew him well. - Fire News photos by Ed Tuffy