Fire News Long Island, May 2021 edition

VOLUME XLVIII, NO. 9

W W W .FIRENE WS .COM

Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Since 1973 MAY 2021

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- Fire News photo by AJDPhotoG

AFDSNY Annual Meeting & Expo May 5-8, 2021

Stop by and See Us.

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Fire News, May 2021, Page 3

In this issue...

Explosion at Melville Asphalt Plant A liquid asphalt tank explodes and fire jumps to a truck and other machinery.

See story on page 12

Residents Displaced in Hempstead Firefighters arrive to heavy smoke coming from the attic windows.

See story on page 25

Hagerman House Fire Crews arrived to a fully involved home and a fast-moving blaze that eventually gutted the house.

See story on page 38

Fatality and Injuries In West Hempstead MVA The Lakeview Fire Department responded to a serious crash on the Southern State.

See story on page 90

Nassau Chiefs Council 2021 Officers The new officers are sworn in during a Zoom presentation.

See story on page 111

Up Close and Personal A closer look at responders from around the island.

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, Managing Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production/Sales LYNN SEDLER, Art Director CLIFF CHIESA, Production Manager Advertising Sales: BARBARA CONNOLLY, NICK DIGIOVANNA Editorial Assistant: BRYAN LOPEZ Graphic Artist: GREG JONES, JEB LADOUCEUR, Publisher Emeritus CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: Vinnie Ammirati, Dennis Berger, Chris Brenner, Jeff Bressler, Kirk Candan, Amanda Coffey, Ed Coppa, Bill D'Alessandro, Jim Dunn, Larry Fox, Lee Genser, Bryan Gosik,Brian Grogan, Steve Grogan,Mike Guarino, Stephanie Handshaw, Jack Healy, Michael Heller, Robert Holley, Cody Hoyle, Kevin Imm, John Ippolito, Tom Lambui, Richard Lewin, Bryan Lopez, Harry Loud, Kurt Ludwig, Brad Maier, John Mancino, Paul Mazza, Lou Minutoli, Ron Monteleone, Michael Murphy, Charles A. Murphy, Mike Oppedisano, John Neely, Robert O'Rourk, Kevin Parkan, Tom Pesce, Kevin Peterson, Jackson Pokress, Jerry Presta, Myles Quinn, Dave Rubin, Jim Rugen, AJ Ryan, Drew Silverman, Steve Silverman, Joe Sperber, JoAnn Stephani, Brian Thomas, Ed Tuffy, Joe Virgilio, Steve Walsh, Dennis Whittam, Cameron Wilken COLUMNISTS: Jeff Bailes, Paul Hashagen, Bruce Johnson, John Salka, Billy Goldfeder, Danny Peluso, Bradley Pinksy, Tom Rinelli COPYRIGHT 2021, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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48 Years of Excellence As you know, Fire News is in its 48th year of publication.

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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor

Are You Ready for a Hazmat Call?

I recently had to refresh my yearly Hazardous Materials Safety Training. I will admit that many years ago, firefighters dealt with Hazmat situations in ways that today, would turn heads and get us in some serious trouble. In the 60s, it was commonplace to see a hose line used to wash away fluids at a scene. At the end of the call, the scene was clean, but nowadays we have learned to be just as concerned with the environment.

Thankfully, as we entered the 1990s, firefighters were required to sit down and take a lengthy Hazmat awareness class. As I sat in this class for the first time, I realized that we were entering a different era. Not only were we concerned with firefighter safety, but we were also concerned with the safety of the environment. Yes, Hazmat safety has been around for a long time and will continue to be part of our yearly certification.

In 1976, a firefighter was killed in a rapidly advancing fire in Ridgewood, Queens. The fire broke out in a beauty supply store. What fueled this fire was acetone that was unknowingly being disposed of improperly. A leaking container was poured down a drain and the

fumes built up in the store. As the heating system kicked in, it ignited the vapors that had built up in the storage room. Could this happen today? The answer is probably yes.

You need to take your training seriously.

How many of you have actually reviewed the Hazmat Training Manual that is stored on your rigs? Yes, I know that working with the book was part of your Firefighter I training.

Let’s face it, for many of us, that was a long time ago. I would bet that even our newer members are probably weak in using the manual and following the procedures in the manual.

Think about it. Are you really familiar with following the safety guidelines for handling corrosives, reactives and irritants? Are you comfortable with handling a scene where flammable and explosive placards are present? Your yearly refresher course is only designed to make you aware of the things you learned during basic training. What the refresher class should be doing is motivating you to take out the Hazmat procedure manual and study it. We live in peculiar times. I am sure you are aware that many of the calls you

go on could involve chemicals that could kill you or your fellow firefighters.

As first responders, you need to take the training necessary to identify and mitigate any situation that arises. In many areas there are buildings that should present red flags in your mind, if you are the officer on a first-due truck. I compliment the chiefs who have set policy for dealing with a response to dangerous structures that may contain remnants of hazardous materials.

Have you downloaded the Hazmat Emergency Response Guidebook app for your cell phone, tablet or computer? There is no excuse for any of us to lack the knowledge to handle Hazmat situations safely.

Please review the manual and download the app!

-Dennis

Announcements 1ST ANNUAL LOBSTER & CLAM BAKE The Patchogue Fire Department Forty Thieves will host their 1st Annual Lobster and Clam Bake on May 29, 2021 (rain date: May 30) from 1400 to 2000 at 14 Dewitt Avenue in Patchogue.

Advanced tickets are $40 per person and include a 1-1/4 pound lobster, 1/2 dozen hard clams, 1/2 pound of PEI mussels, corn-on-the-cob, potatoes, and all you can drink beer, wine, soda and water. All Covid-19 policies will be followed. For information go to venmo@ patchoguefortythieves-drillteam.

FIREFIGHTERS TRIP TO IRELAND? The Nassau County Firefighters Emerald Society is exploring the possibility of a firefighter’s trip to Ireland. In order to determine support, we are asking any interested Long Island fire and EMS personnel to e-mail Kevin Mulrooney, the Society President and answer a few quick questions: How long would you like to go; who should be included: responders only, spouses, families; what would be the best month to travel; what would you like included: (airfare, meals,

ground transport, hotels); what region of Ireland would you like to visit; should the trip concentrate on visiting firehouses; should we consider working with another group such as a band or Hibernians; any other comments.

Obviously, this would take place when conditions improve worldwide and no plans have been made as of yet.

This is simply to gauge interest. Please e-mail your comments to Kevin Mulrooney at ewexcapt@verizon.net.

NASSAU EMERALD SOC. SEEKS MEMBERS, MTG. LOCATIONS The Nassau County Firefighters Emerald Society is seeking new members for 2021. Individual memberships are $10 per year; department membership costs $100 for all members!

Membership is open to all active and exempt career and volunteer firefighters in Nassau and Queens, and all volunteer EMS personnel.

Meetings are held the fourth Tuesday of every month at various firehouses and we are always seeking new locations! If you would like to host a meeting or have questions, please contact President Kevin Mulrooney at ewexcapt@verizon.net.

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Cover Story

Roosevelt Mixed Occupancy Blaze

The Roosevelt Fire Department was called to a building fire on Nassau Road just after 0100 on April 6, 2021. First arriving units found the rear of a two-story mixed-occupancy building, which housed two businesses and several apartments, heavily involved.

The fire spread to a vehicle parked in a driveway on the exposure four side of the building; on the exposure two side it spread to an office trailer for a used car lot and a vehicle. A house on the exposure three side suffered radiant heat damage to its siding. The fire destroyed two businesses and displaced over a dozen families from the apartments, and approximately 10 people were evacuated from their homes as a precaution until the fire was brought under control. There were no reported injuries and the cause of the fire was under investigation. Mutual aid, to the scene and for standby came from Freeport, Uniondale, Hempstead, South Hempstead, Merrick, North Merrick, Baldwin, Elmont, Long Beach, West Hempstead and North Bellmore. Chief of Department Martin was in charge of the scene.

- Fire News photos by Paul Mazza, AJDPhotoG, K2MPhotography.com and OverTheEdgePhotography.com

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Heavy Fire in Hicksville

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Hicksville firefighters responded to the report of a house fire on Woodbury Road near Crescent Street on March 23, 2021. Arriving companies found heavy fire and smoke in the basement and on the first floor of the two-story Cape. Mutual aid companies were also assigned to the incident.

- Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com and Bryan Lopez

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Quick Stop in Syosset On April 2, 2021, at approximately 1430, the Syosset Fire Department was dispatched to a house fire on Hicks Avenue. First Assistant Chief Silver was first on scene and found a confirmed fire in the ceiling of a bathroom and transmitted a working fire. Engine 585 stretched the initial line and the fire was quickly knocked down and placed under control with assistance of crews from Jericho and Hicksville for overhaul.

- Fire News photo by OverTheEdgePhotography.com

Garage Fire in Calverton On March 24, 2021, at 1525, firefighters battled a Calverton garage fire. The Riverhead Fire Department, Manorville Ambulance and Suffolk Police responded to an attached garage fire on Elm Street.

- Fire News photos by LiHotShots.smugmug.com

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Explosion at Melville Asphalt Plant The Melville Fire Department responded to a fire at an asphalt construction business on Spagnoli Road in Melville on March 23, 2021, at 1255. Firefighters were met with heavy fire conditions in a 15,000-gallon liquid asphalt tank which apparently exploded, causing fire to auto expose onto a truck and commercial machine equipment. Fire hydrants were located over 1000-feet away and water had to be relayed into the scene from Spagnoli Road, hampering efforts. Mutual aid came from several departments including East Farmingdale, Huntington Manor, Dix Hills, Plainview, Syosset, Hicksville and Wyandanch. The Town of Huntington Fire Marshal along with Suffolk Police were on scene investigating the cause.

- Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber, BTFirePhoto and Paul Mazza

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Vehicle Fire Stopped from Extending

On the evening of March 27, 2021, the Farmingdale Fire Department was activated for a vehicle fire to the rear of a Conklin Street residence. Chief 9202 arrived and confirmed the fully involved vehicle fire next to bushes and a home. Engine 921 responded and promptly extinguished the fire without incident.

Chief 9201, Squad 924, Ladder 926, And Fire Police 927 also responded.

- Fire News photos by Mike Oppedisano

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Nice Stop in Westhampton Dunes The Westhampton Beach Fire Department was called out for a residential fire in the 700 block of Dune Road in Westhampton Dunes a few seconds before 1300 on March 19, 2021. The department’s first-due engine, 7-8-1, with a crew that happened to be at the fire house when the call came in, was the first unit to arrive. The crew was able to run a hose line to the roof via interior stairs and was quickly able to subdue the fire it encountered on the flat roof.

Ladder 7-8-6 accessed the roof via the bucket and commenced to saw holes in the roof allowing the hose team to extinguish pockets of fire that remained. The fire was contained to the roof. Also responding were East Quogue, East Moriches, Eastport and Quogue.

A Westhampton Dunes constable and the Westhampton War Memorial Ambulance were also on scene.

- Fire News photo by the Westhampton Beach FD

Fully Involved on Arrival

The Nesconset Fire Department responded to a house fire on Browns Road in Nesconset, on March 27, 2021, at 1435. A single-story home was fully engulfed upon the arrival. No occupants were inside the home.

Mutual aid came from Ronkonkoma, Saint James, Smithtown, Lakeland and Centereach. The Stony Brook Fire Department stood by. One firefighter suffered minor injuries and was transported to Stony Brook University Hospital. The fire was brought under control in 30 minutes. The Suffolk County Police and Smithtown Town Fire Marshal were on scene investigating the cause.

- Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber

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Commercial Fire in East Meadow

On March 16, 2021, at approximately 2315, the East Meadow Fire Department was dispatched to a report of smoke on Carman Avenue. Chief of Department Walsh was advised that police were reporting heavy smoke from a building. Chief Walsh arrived to heavy smoke from multiple stores and a confirmed fire in the rear

of a laundrom. Engines 613 and 614, along with Westbury Ladder 963, began stretching the initial attack lines and gaining access to the adjacent storefronts. The main body of fire was found in the laundromat which extended to a delicatessen. Additional mutual aid to the scene was requested from Levittown, Wantagh, Hicksville, Uniondale and North Bellmore. At least four lines were stretched to extinguish the fire, which was placed under control in approximately one hour.

- Fire News photos by OverTheEdgePhotography.com, Paul Mazza, K2MPhotography.com and Bryan Lopez

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Looking Back Rockville Centre - 2015 On February 12, 2015, Rockville Centre firefighters were faced with a raging fire in the basement of the two story private dwelling on South Long Beach Road.

Freezing temperatures, snow, and frozen hydrants delayed the initial attack.

- Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos. com

Central Islip - 2015

On April 2, 2015, the Central Islip Fire Department was activated for a house fire on Julie Crescent at Lowell Avenue.

- Fire News photo by Kevin J. Parkan

Melville House Fire 1977 The Melville House on Ruland Road in 1977. Pictured in the bucket of the old 2-5-1 Hi-Ranger Snorkel truck are Firefighter Joel DiMaggio, left, and Chief Al Silvestri, right.

- Fire News photo from the Steve Silverman Archives

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Smithtown LIRR Brush Fire

The Smithtown Fire Department operated at a brush fire off Meadow Road in Smithtown on March 26, 2021, at 1740. A 200-square-foot area of brush was burning along the Long Island Rail Road tracks. A stop order for all trains was put into effect for over an hour while firefighters extinguished the flames. Hoses had to be stretched over the tracks to quickly contain the fire which was being fanned by high winds. The Suffolk Police Arson Squad, LIRR MTA Police and Smithtown Town Fire Marshal were on scene investigating the cause. This was the second brush fire in this area in less than a week.

- Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber

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Uniondale Dryer Fire In the late afternoon of March 15, 2021, the Uniondale Fire Department was called to a home on Chester Street, off Front Street, for a report of smoke in the basement. As units were on the way Fire Com reported the automatic fire alarm was received and that there was a possible dryer fire at the location. Companies confirmed a fire in the ductwork of the dryer. North Bellmore was designated the FAST and responded to the scene with Ladder 657. Firefighters put one handline into operation and had the fire quickly knocked down and contained to a small area at the front of the home. The cause of the fire was under investigation and all occupants made it out of the home safely.

- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com

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Fire News, May 2021, Page 19

3 Injured at Dix Hills Blaze

The Dix Hills Fire Department responded to a house fire on Deer Park Avenue on April 5, 2021. Second Assistant Chief Dipino arrived to fire showing from the second floor of a two-story home.

Chief of Department Williamson and Third Assistant Chief Farell arrived shortly after. Engine 2-8-2 made its way up a steep driveway to the house. Crews stretched and operated three handlines, two

inside the house and a third on the exterior. The fire was brought under control within an hour. Two people were taken to Stony Brook University Hospital by ambulance, a third person was taken to Huntington Hospital. The cause of the fire was under investigation. Mutual aid to the scene was provided by Deer Park, Melville and Wyandanch.

- Fire News photo by Paul Mazza

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South Floral Park House Fire

The South Floral Park Fire Department responded to a house fire on the afternoon of April 7, 2021. Units found heavy fire conditions on arrival at the single-story ranch-style home on Marguerite Avenue and quickly went to work. Mutual aid companies also responded to the scene.

- Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com, Colgan Fire Photos and K2MPhotography.com

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Street Sweeper Fire in Oceanside

On the morning of April 5, 2021, the Oceanside Fire Department operated at the scene of a street sweeper on fire on Long Beach Road, off Poole Street. One handline was put into operation off Oceanside Engine 249 resulting in a quick knockdown of the fire.

Also on scene was Engine 248 and Ambulance 242-A along with the chiefs. Nassau County Hazmat was requested to the scene for a spill. All fire department units were under the command of Oceanside Chief Daskalakis.

- Fire News photos by K2M Photography.com

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Brentwood House Fire

The Brentwood Fire Department responded to a reported house fire on Connecticut Avenue about 0715 on March 29, 2021. First and Third Assistant Chiefs Kelly and Mungo responded and were advised by a member on scene of heavy smoke coming from a two-story home with heavy fire in the basement. A hoarding condition and high winds pushing the fire through the house, hampered firefighters’ efforts to make entry. Crews stretched and operated four lines from the exterior until

they could make entry and extinguish any remaining pockets of fire.

Searches were delayed due to the condition in the house, but were negative when completed. The fire was brought under control at 0935 with no reported injuries. The occupants home at the time were able to exit the house safely. Mutual aid to the scene was provided by Bay Shore, Islip and East Brentwood. The cause of the fire was under investigation.

- Fire News photos by Paul Mazza

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East Farmingdale Car Fire

The East Farmingdale Fire Company responded to a vehicle fire in the parking of lot of Walmart on Route 110 about 1655, on April 1, 2021. Units arrived to find a minivan on fire, which spread to an SUV parked next to it. Engine 1-5-2 picked up a hydrant in the parking lot and crews put two lines with foam into operation from

1-5-2 and 1-5-7, due to at least one of the vehicles having a full tank of gas as reported by the owner who came out to find the vehicle on fire. Both vehicles were destroyed and a third suffered smoke damage. There were no reported injuries. Chief of Department Welliver was in charge of the scene.

- Fire News photo by Paul Mazza

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Residents Displaced in Hempstead Fire

The Hempstead Fire Department received multiple calls for a house fire on Milford Street and Hoff Court on March 20, 2021. Units arrived and found heavy smoke pushing from the attic windows. Ladder companies searched and vented while engine members doused the blaze. Red Cross officials were called to assist the displaced residents.

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

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Garage Fire in Holbrook

On March 25, 2021, the Holbrook Fire Department was activated for a structure fire on Elizabeth Avenue. the first chief arrived to fire in a detached garage. Crews worked for approximately three hours until they were released from the scene. Mutual aid was provided by Ronkonkoma, Bohemia, and Lakeland. EMS was provided by Holbrook.

- Fire News photo by Jack McNamara, FC-16A

Fast Stop in Uniondale

On February 9, 2021, at 0037, the Uniondale Fire Department was dispatched for a house fire on Macon Place. First Assistant Chief Martinez was advised by Firecom a caller was reporting a door on fire. Upon his arrival he reported smoke showing from the house.

Ladder 754 and Engine 752 stretched the initial line to begin extinguishing the fire in the rear of the first floor. The fire was placed under control in approximately 20 minutes.

- Fire News photo by OverTheEdgePhotography.com

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North Amityville House Fire On January 6, 2021, the North Amityville Fire Company was activated for a residential structure fire on Carrol Street. Commanding units were met with smoke showing and transmitted a working fire. Mutual aid was bought in from Amityville, North Lindenhurst, and East Farmingdale. The fire was quickly knocked down by first-due crews without incident.

- Fire News photos by Bryan Lopez

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School Boiler Room Fire in N. Babylon

The North Babylon Fire Company responded to an automatic alarm at the Marion G. Vedder Elementary School on Deer Park Avenue on March 24, 2021. Second Assistant Chief Alt arrived and was followed

by Engines 1-8-2 and 1-8-8, Heavy Rescue 1-8-5 and Ambulance 1-8-17.

First Assistant Chief Mazur arrived shortly after and took command.

Crews made entry into the school and found smoke on the first floor and located a fire in the basement boiler room. One line was stretched and put into operation containing the fire to the boiler room area, bringing the fire under control within an hour. Babylon, West Babylon, Deer Park and West Islip assisted at the scene. There were no injuries and the cause of the fire was under investigation.

- Fire News photos by Paul Mazza

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Fully Involved on Arrival in Garden City

A Garden City house was heavily damaged by a raging fire on March 18, 2021.

Firefighters were called to Spruce Street on the corner of Old Country Road just after 2000, and found the two-story home engulfed in flames. Fire companies from surrounding communities responded to assist. There were no serious injuries reported. Nassau County Fire Marshals were also on the scene.

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

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Commercial Roof Fire in Central Islip

The Central Islip Fire Department responded to a report of a structure fire at The Muffler Man on East Suffolk Avenue at 1658 on April 6, 2021. First Assistant Chief Mike Zaleski commanded seven units and 55 firefighters. Third Assistant Chief Joe Vereline had been first on scene and reported smoke showing on the 1 side of the

building from the roof. There was minor fire involving debris on the roof and the situation was quickly brought under control. East Brentwood responded to the scene as well as the Islip Town Fire Marshall’s Office.

- Fire News photo by Charles A. Murphy, CIFD Photo Unit

Babylon House Fire The Babylon Fire Department responded to a house fire on Cooper Street just before 0900, on April 3, 2021. Third Assistant Chief Sadousky arrived to find smoke coming from the third floor. Chief of Department Fraccalvieri, 1st Assistant Chief Arundale and 2nd Assistant Chief Miga arrived shortly after.

Engine 1-2-3 was followed by Ladder 1-2-8; Engines 1-2-5, 1-21 and 1-2-6; Heavy Rescue 1-2-7 and Amb- ulance 1-2-10. Crews stretched and operated two lines and contained the fire to the third floor, bringing it under control in about an hour. The occupants home at the time exited the house safely. North Babylon was requested for RIT and West Islip for an additional ambulance. The cause of the fire was under investigation.

- Fire News photo by Paul Mazza

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Westbury House Fire The Westbury Fire Department responded to a house fire on Hollow Court in Westbury on April 5, 2021, at 0835.

Firefighters arrived to a home fully engulfed in flames. All occupants were able to evacuate without injury. Mutual aid came from Hicksville, Jericho, Carle Place, East Meadow, Bethpage and Syosset. The Nassau County Police and Fire Marshal were called to the scene to investigate the cause.

- Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber, Paul Mazza and FirstOnScenePhotos.com

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Fire News, May 2021, Page 37

Floral Park House Fire

The Floral Park Fire Department responded to the report of a house fire on March 16, 2021. Flames were showing from the rear of a twostory Cape Cod-style home on West Hitchcock Avenue. Handlines were stretched, and mutual aid companies were called to the scene.

At one point in the operation, a firefighter was forced to make an immediate exit from the fire area by leaping from a first-floor window. There was no serious injury reported.

- Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

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Southampton Dumpster Fire On April 2, 2021, at 0859, the Southampton Fire Department was dispatched to a dumpster fire on Toylsome Lane in Southampton Village.

Chiefs arrived on scene to find a dumpster smoldering. Pumper 7-3-12 and Tanker 7-3-36 were utilized to extinguish the fire.

Units were on scene for approximately 20 minutes.

Chief Alfred Callahan was in charge.

- Fire News photo submitted by Chris Brenner, PIO

Hagerman House Fire Early on March 16, 2021, the Hagerman Fire Department was activated for a residential structure fire on Amsterdam Avenue. Suffolk County Police were the first units to arrive and advised dispatch that a portion of the house was well-involved.

Commanding units arrived shortly after, and immediately transmitted a working fire. Mutual aid was brought in from Bellport, North Patchogue and South County Ambulance. The fast-moving blaze gutted the home, and radiant heat from the fire melted the vinyl siding on the neighboring home.

- Fire News photo

by Bryan Lopez

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Hempstead Vehicle Fire Extends

Early on March 25, 2021, the Hempstead Fire Department, along with mutual aid, operated at the scene of a fire on Albemarle Avenue between Nostrand Place and Henry Street. Firefighters put three handlines into operation off Hempstead Hose 2 for a vehicle fire with extension to two private dwellings. Among the departments called for mutual aid were West Hempstead, South Hempstead and Uniondale. All occupants made it out safely from both residences and the cause of the fire was under investigation.

All fire department units were under the command of Hempstead Chief of Department Kyle Boles.

- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com and AJDPhotoG

Fatality at Levittown Blaze

Late on the morning of April 10, 2021, the Levittown Fire Department was called to a report of a house fire with people trapped on Forester Lane off Collector Lane. When firefighters arrived, they were met with heavy smoke and flames showing from a two-story Levitt-style home with confirmed entrapment of one occupant.

Firefighters made an aggressive push into the home and quickly located the victim in a rear bedroom on the first floor; however, the victim did not survive. Among the neighboring departments called for mutual aid were Bethpage and Wantagh. The cause of the fire was under investigation.

- Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com

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North Babylon House Fire The North Babylon Fire Company responded to a house fire on Oakrest Lane about 1725 on March 21, 2021.

Third Assistant Chief Elco arrived to smoke showing from the house. Chief of Department Cullen arrived and took command. Engine 1-8-8 was followed by Ladder 1-8-6 and Engine 1-8-4. The fire was located on the second floor and in the attic. Crews stretched and operated two lines and contained the fire to that area.

All searches of the house were negative. The fire was brought under control within an hour. Mutual aid to the scene was provided by Babylon, West Islip and West Babylon. The cause of the fire was under investigation.

- Fire News photos by Paul Mazza and Bryan Lopez

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Hoarding Conditions at Bay Shore Blaze

The Bay Shore Fire Department responded to a house fire on Manor Lane on the afternoon of March 14, 2021. First Assistant Chief Ekelund arrived to find heavy fire showing from a two-story home that had a hoarding condition inside. Chief of Department Butler arrived shortly after and took command.

Engine 3-1-3’s crew and additional engine crews stretched and operated three lines from 3-1-3. West Islip Quint also had a line.

Hoarding condition in the house hampered efforts for an interior attack. Members were pulled from the house and a master stream from Ladder 3-1-4 and numerous handlines were used to knock down the main body of fire. Units remained on scene for several hours hitting hot spots. The occupant home at the time was able to exit the house safely.

There were no reported injuries and the cause of the fire was under investigation.

Mutual aid to the scene was provided by West Islip, Islip and Brentwood. Bay ShoreBrightwaters Ambulance was also on scene.

- Fire News photos by Paul Mazza and Rich Stark

Page 46, Fire News, May 2021

East Meadow Blaze The East Meadow Fire Department responded to a house fire on Foster Lane on March 20, 2021. Units arrived to heavy fire showing from the exposure 2 and 3 sides of a Levitt Cape. Three engine lines went into operation as ladders searched and vented the house. The occupants exited the house safely. The fire was brought under control in about an hour. Chief of Department Walsh was in charge of the scene. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza, FirstOnScenePhotos.com and K2MPhotography.com

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Homeowner Knocks Down Exterior Fire

The Commack Fire Department responded to a house fire on Parkway Drive North in Commack on April 8, 2021. An exterior fire broke out next to the house and extended to the siding. Luckily, the homeowner was able to extinguish most of the fire with a gar-

den hose before additional damage occurred. Firefighters opened and overhauled to expose any hidden fire. Suffolk Police and Smithtown Town Fire Marshal were on scene investigating the cause.

- Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber

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Fire News, May 2021, Page 49

Lindenhurst Commercial Fire

Early on April 13, 2021, the Lindenhurst Fire Department was called to a commercial structure fire on Montauk Highway.

Units arrived to find fire blowing out one store, in what appeared to be a vacant row of stores. A working fire was transmitted and mutual aid was brought in from Copiague, North Lindenhurst

and West Babylon. Crews battled the fire putting multiple lines and deck guns into operation. The blaze badly damaged the building, but no injuries were reported. A Town of Babylon Fire Marshal responded for an investigation.

- Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez

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Mastic Beach Fire KO’d

On March 24, 2021, the Mastic Beach Fire Department was toned out for a structure fire on Cranberry Drive in Mastic Beach. Unit 2 started pulling hose and headed to the rear of the structure. Chief McGown arrived and radioed to county for a mutual aid from Mastic and Center Moriches.

Unit 3 and Unit 4 arrived and immediately hit the hydrant and pulled lines.

Fire police took up posts on both the north and south ends of the scene.

Suffolk County Police also responded.

Mastic Beach Am-bulance and Shirley Ambulance set up a triage area. The fire was extinguished within minutes and the Brookhaven Fire Marshalls started their investigation to determine the cause.

- Fire News photos by Jim Rugen and LiHotShots.smugmug.com

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All Out Safe at Brentwood House Fire The Brentwood Fire Department responded to a house fire on Inchcape Road about 0140 on March 18, 2021. Chief Kelly arrived to find the rear of the single-story home well involved and the fire spreading through the house. Engine crews operated three lines to extinguish the fire, while the crews from Ladder 3-2-8 and Heavy Rescue 3-218 searched and vented the house.

The occupants home were able to escape the house uninjured. The fire was brought under control in about an hour and 15 minutes with one firefighter suffering a non-lifethreatening injury. Mutual aid came from East Brentwood and Bay Shore; Central Islip stood by. The cause of the fire was under investigation.

- Fire News photos by Paul Mazza

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House Burns Again in North Amityville

The North Amityville Fire Company responded to a house fire on North Somerset Road about 0120 on March 17, 2021. Engine 1-7-1 arrived to find the rear of a two-story house that was gutted by a fire on August 2, 2020, on fire for a second time. This was also the scene of a fatal shooting on August 1, 2020. Chief of Department Nelson and Third Assistant Chief McLeod arrived shortly after. The

crew from 1-7-1 put one line into operation and had the fire under control within 30 minutes with no reported injuries. Mutual aid to the scene was provided by the North Lindenhurst, Copiague, Amityville and Massapequa. The cause of the fire was under investigation. Chief of Department Nelson was in charge of the scene.

- Fire News photos by Paul Mazza and Bryan Lopez

Lakeview Brush Fire Extends The Lakeview Fire Department was alerted for a possible brush fire on Coventry Road North on March 29, 2021. On arrival, units found a small brush fire which extended to a parked vehicle on the property. The fire then spread to a second vehicle and to the siding of an attached garage. The incident was quickly brought under control.

- Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

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Carle Place 3-Alarmer

Early on March 15, 2021, the Carle Place Fire Department was alerted for a house fire in the vicinity of Evelyn Avenue and Broadmoor Lane. Carle Place 2nd Assistant Chief M. Geddish arrived to fire showing from a 2-1/2 story private dwelling on Evelyn Avenue. The wind driven fire ultimately reached a third

alarm but was placed under control within an hour. There were no reported injuries and the cause of the fire was under investigation.

- Fire News photos by AJDPhotoG, K2MPhotography.com and Paul Mazza

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Deer Park Car Fire On March 18, 2021, at 1552, the Deer Park Fire Department responded to a vehicle fire on Deer Park Avenue at Schwartz Place. The fire was in the engine compartment and was knocked down quickly by first responding Engine 1-4-7.

- Fire News photos by BTFirePhoto

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Nissequogue Car Fire The Nissequogue Fire Department responded to a car fire on Hillcrest Road, on March 21, 2021, at 1000. A car parked in the driveway next to the garage was fully engulfed in flames upon the arrival of firefighters. The fire was quickly extinguished before any extension occurred to the garage or home. The Town of Smithtown Fire Marshal along with Suffolk Police Arson Squad were called to the scene to investigate the cause.

- Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber

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Glen Cove Handles House Fire

The Glen Cove Fire Department was alerted for a house fire on Sea Cliff Avenue on the afternoon of March 15, 2021. Most of the fire was contained to the rear of the home and mutual aid companies were called to the scene to assist.

- Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

N. Lindenhurst Vehicle Fires Extend

The North Lindenhurst Fire Department was called to a reported vehicle fire in the driveway of a home on Straight Path and 45th Street on the evening of April 5, 2021. Chief of Department Connell arrived to two vehicles involved. Engines 1-11-1, 1-11-2 Heavy Rescue 1-11-12

and Safety Officer 1-11-48 responded. Engine 1-11-1 put one line into operation to extinguish the fire. The crews from 1-11-2 and 1-11-5 overhauled the vehicles and checked the house they were parked near for any extension.

- Fire News photo by Paul Mazza

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Westbury Motel Fire

On the evening of March 15, 2021, the Westbury Fire Department was called to a structure fire at the Hampton Garden Inn on North Avenue. Responding units were advised by Westbury Fire Dispatch that the caller stated there was fire coming from the light fixtures and heavy smoke from the building. Firefighters were met with smoke showing and found an exterior fire on the front of the build-

ing. Upon further investigation, firefighters found that the fire was extending to the interior of the structure and that there was a significant smoke condition throughout the first floor and above.

Among the departments called for mutual aid were Hicksville, Garden City and Mineola. Firefighters put one handline into operation and had the main body of fire quickly knocked down; however, extensive overhaul was required. A shelter-in-place order was put into effect for occupants of the hotel — this helped ensure there were no injuries. The cause of the fire was under investigation and all fire department units were under the command of Westbury Chief of Department Gass.

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

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Fully Involved Vehicle in E. Farmingdale

The East Farmingdale Fire Company responded to a vehicle fire on Route 110, just north of the Southern State Parkway about 2340 on March 20, 2021. Chief of Department Welliver, and Assistant Chiefs Quinn and Greco responded along with Engines 1-5-1, 1-52, 1-5-7 Heavy Rescue 1-5-4 and Fire Police 1-5-16 and 1-5-18.

Units arrived to find an SUV involved on the shoulder of the road.

The driver was able to exit uninjured. Engine 1-5-1 had a hydrant behind the vehicle and its crew put one line into operation and had the fire extinguished in about 15 minutes.

- Fire News photos by Paul Mazza

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Fast Stop in Massapequa

The Massapequa Fire Department responded to a reported house fire on Park Boulevard just before 0100 on February 7, 2021.

Second Assistant Chief Maneri arrived to fire in the garage. Chief of Department Batt and Third Assistant Chief Friedland arrived shortly after, with Chief Batt taking command of the scene. Engine 635 was followed by Ladders 632 and 636, and Engines 6311, 6314

and 6315. The engine crews stretched and operated two lines, quickly bringing the fire under control, and containing it to the garage.

The ladder crews searched and vented. There were no injuries and the cause of the fire was under investigation. Mutual aid came from Seaford. Units from Wantagh and South Farmingdale stood by.

- Fire News photo by Paul Mazza

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Glen Cove House, Brush Fire On March 14, 2021, at 2235, the City of Glen Cove Fire Department was dispatched to an unknown type fire in the back lot of the Glen Cove Mansion on Dosoris Lane. Glen Cove Police arrived to find a house on fire in the rear of the mansion property and the first arriving officers removed an occupant from the structure. Second Assistant Chief Grella arrived to fire showing from the house as well as multiple brush fires around the fire building. Engine 528 stretched the initial attack line and, with the assistance of crews from Sea Cliff, Locust Valley, Glenwood and Roslyn, the stubborn fire was placed under control in under two hours.

The sole occupant of the house was evaluated on scene by Glen Cove EMS. All operations were under the command of 1st Assistant Chief Retoske.

- Fire News photo by OverTheEdgePhotography.com

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3-Vehicle Mineola MVA Around 0300 on April 4, 2021, the Mineola Fire Department was called to an MVA with fire, entrapment, and wires down on Jericho Turnpike off Willis Avenue. Firefighters were met with a three-vehicle accident spread across a large section of Jericho Turnpike.

From the impact, one of the vehicles was split in half after striking a telephone pole and storefront. One half of the vehicle caught fire with those flames quickly extinguished. The other half of the vehicle came to rest several feet away against another structure. The two occupants of the split vehicle were transported to area hospitals with serious injuries.

Between the other two vehicles involved the injuries were far less serious. Also on scene was Mineola VAC, NCPD ESU, and many other resources from Nassau County Police.

The cause of the accident was under investigation. All fire department units were under the command of Mineola Chief of Department Connolly.

- Fire News photos by K2M Photography.com and AJDPhotoG

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Car Fires in North Amityville

The North Amityville Fire Company was called to a vehicle fire on Sunrise Highway in the early afternoon of March 15, 2021. Chief of Department Nelson, Third Assistant Chief McLeod Engine 1-71 and Ambulance 1-7-22 responded and found a compact car in a parking lot. The crew from 1-7-1 put one line into operation and had the fire extinguished in about 10 minutes.

- Fire News photo by Paul Mazza

The North Amityville Fire Company was alerted for a vehicle fire on Columbia Avenue on March 20, 2021. Chief of Department Nelson arrived first to find a compact car involved parked in front of a house. Second Assistant Chief Henry arrived shortly after along with Engine 1-7-1 and Ambulance 1-7-8. The crew from 1-71 put one line into operation and had the fire extinguished in about 10 minutes.

- Fire News photo by Paul Mazza

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Quick Stop at Roosevelt Car Fire

On the night of March 25, 2021, the Roosevelt Fire Department was had the main body of fire quickly knocked down. Also, on scene was called to a car fire on Babylon Turnpike between Frederick and Ladder 735, Ambulance 7361, and Fire Police Unit 7310. There East Fulton Avenues. When firefighters arrived, they were met with were no injuries, and everyone made it out of the vehicle safely. a confirmed car fire in the street with no exposure issues.

- Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com Firefighters stretched one handline off Roosevelt Engine 733 and

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Déjà vu All Over Again

On April 6, 2021, the East Farmingdale Fire Company was called to crews without incident, and no injuries were reported. This is the the parking lot of the Walmart on Route 110 for a reported vehicle second fire (See page 24. — Ed.) involving multiple vehicles, in the fire. Commanding units arrived to find two cars involved, and same parking lot, in less than a week’s time. advised incoming units. The fire was quickly knocked down by - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez

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Car Fire on the MSP

At 0644 on January 1, 2021, the East Meadow Fire Department was called to a car fire on the northbound Meadowbrook State Parkway north of Hempstead Turnpike. When firefighters arrived they were met with a confirmed car fire with all occupants out. East Meadow Engine 612 put one handline into operation which led to the fire

being quickly knocked down. Also on scene was East Meadow Engines 611 and 612. All fire department units were under the command of East Meadow First Assistant Chief Kosiba.

- Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com

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Freeport Kitchen Fire

On Friday March 19, 2021, just before 1600, the Freeport Fire Department was dispatched to an unknown type fire on North Ocean Avenue. Multiple chiefs were quickly on the road and advised by Firecom that they had received a 911 hang up call, for a fire. While en route, Chief of Department Braun advised that police were reporting a kitchen fire. Engine 216 stretched the initial line into the kitchen to quickly extinguish the fire, which was placed under control in approximately 15 minutes with the assistance of crews from Baldwin and Merrick.

- Fire News photo by OverTheEdgePhotography.com

North Merrick House Fire

On January 24, 2021, the North Merrick Fire Department was called to a house fire on Woodland Terrace. Firefighters arrived to fire showing from the second floor of a two-story private dwelling and all occupants out. One occupant was transported from the scene to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. All units were under the command of North Merrick Chief of Department Fasano. - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com

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EMS ACROSS THE ISLAND

Uniondale MVA On the night of March 21, 2021, the Uniondale Fire Department operated at the scene of an MVA with overturn.

The accident was located at the intersection of Uniondale Avenue and Southern Parkway. There were two vehicles involved, negative entrapment, and no injuries. Firefighters secured both vehicles before being released. All fire department units were under the command of Uniondale Chief of Department Avril Ashley.

- Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com

Baldwin Overturn MVA On the evening of Monday, March 22, 2021, the Baldwin Fire Department operated on the scene of an MVA with overturn on Rockville Drive between Seaman and Tennyson Avenues. There were two vehicles in the accident, minor injuries, and negative entrapment. Firefighters remained on scene until the overturned vehicle was upright. All fire department units were under the command of Baldwin Second Deputy Chief Dworsak. Also on scene was Nassau County Police Emergency Services.

- Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com

Farmingville MVA On March 22, 2021, the Farmingville Fire Department was activated for an MVA in the parking-lot of a shopping center off Horseblock Road. Commanding units arrived to find a single-vehicle crash, and reported a vehicle into a pillar outside a storefront, advising incoming units of negative entrapment. The driver was transported to a local hospital with minor injuries via a Farmingville Ambulance.

- Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez

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Car Snaps Tree & Pole in Massapequa The Massapequa Fire Department and Nassau County Police Department responded to a single-vehicle accident on Merrick Road and Clocks Boulevard at approximately 1320 on March 20, 2021. The driver of a compact SUV went off the road struck a tree and a utility pole snapping both. Chief of Department Batt, Assistant Chiefs Maneri and Friedland, Engine 6314, Ladder 636, Squad 8 and Ambulance 6310 responded. To make access to the driver easier the driver’s side door was removed and the driver was extricated in about 10 minutes. The injured driver was taken to Good Samaritan Hospital by Ambulance 6310.

- Fire News photo by Paul Mazza

Entrapment in Commack MVA On March 23, 2021, the Commack Fire Department and Commack Volunteer Ambulance Company were activated for an MVA car-versus-tractor trailer, at the intersection of Indian Head Road and Jericho Turnpike.

Commanding units were met with a collision involving two vehicles, and advised incoming units that the driver of the car was heavily pinned by the dashboard. Crews worked swiftly to extricate the trapped driver, who was then airlifted to an area hospital with serious, but nonlife-threatening injuries. The scene was turned over to Suffolk County Police, and the roadway was closed for hours, due to an accident investigation.

- Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez

Medevac After Deer Park Incident On March 17, 2021, at 1412, the Deer Park Fire Department responded to a traumatic arrest and injury of man on Brennan Place. Upon assessment by the ambulance crew, Chief Robert Macaluso requested Suffolk County Police Aviation to land on the football field at the Deer Park High School. The patient was transported to Stony Brook University Hospital.

- Fire News photo by BTFirePhoto

Garden City Near Head-on The Garden City Fire Department responded to a two-vehicle MVA on March 17, 2021. The near head-on collision occurred at the intersection of Nassau Boulevard and Cambridge Avenue. Village police were also on the scene.

- Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

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Car Into Building in Oceanside

Late on January 24, 2021, the Oceanside Fire Department was called to Long Beach Road and Atlantic Avenue for a car-versusbuilding MVA. Fire units arrived to find a single-vehicle accident with structural damage to a medical office. The driver, the only person in the vehicle, was not seriously injured. All fire department units were under the command of Oceanside Chief of Department Caroccia.

- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com

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Massapequa MVA

On the afternoon of March 21, 2021, the Massapequa Fire Department responded to an MVA on Park Boulevard where a vehicle traveling south struck a parked car pushing it one block away and

finally came to a stop after hitting a fire hydrant. The driver was the only occupant of the vehicle and he was transported to a local hospital by a Massapequa Ambulance.

- Fire News photo by Ed Tuffy

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Car into House in Lakeland On March 23, 2021, the Lakeland Fire Department was activated for an MVA vehicle-into-house on Seusing Boulevard.

Commanding units were met with a vehicle well into the structure, and advised of a driver, and a child passenger, trapped. First arriving crews stabilized the vehicle, then went to work alongside Suffolk County Police ESU to free the trapped victims. The driver of the vehicle was airlifted to Stony Brook University Hospital, the child passenger was transported by ground via a Lakeland Ambulance. Command requested a building inspector to the scene due to the extensive damage to the home, which was, luckily, unoccupied at the time of the accident.

- Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez

North Babylon MVA

The North Babylon Fire Company responded to an accident with reported entrapment on Prairie Drive just before 0400 on March 20, 2021. Third Assistant Chief Elco confirmed the entrapment.

First and Second Assistant Chiefs Mazur and Alt arrived shortly after. The driver of a sedan struck two parked vehicles in front of two homes on Prairie Drive, pushing one into the middle of the road. The crews from Engine 1-8-2, Ladder 1-8-6 and Heavy Rescue

1-8-15 used multiple extrication tools to remove the four doors from the car and lift the dashboard off the driver’s legs; the driver was extricated in about 20 minutes. The crew from Engine 1-8-4 had a precautionary line stretched. The injured driver was taken to Good Samaritan Hospital by Ambulance 1-8-14 with minor injuries.

- Fire News photo by Paul Mazza

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Well, Not a Bad Place for an MVA On March 29, 2021, the Brookhaven Fire Department, and South Country Ambulance were activated for a MVA with possible entrapment in front of Suffolk Police Headquarters on Yaphank Avenue.

Commanding units arrived to find a two-vehicle collision, and advised that all occupants were self-extricated. One driver was transported to Long Island Community Hospital via a South Country Ambulance, the other driver refused medical attention. Crews secured both involved vehicles, then attended to all debris and fluids in the roadway.

- Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez

Up a Garden Wall On March 27, 2021, the Massapequa Fire Department responded to a call for a vehicle that had run up onto a garden wall in front of a home on Clocks Boulevard in East Massapequa.

Firefighters stabilized the vehicle while medics treated the driver. After extracting the driver from the vehicle, care for the driver was turned over to Nassau County Police Medics.

- Fire News photo by Ed Tuffy

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1 Fatality, 3 Serious in West Hempstead

The Lakeview Fire Department responded to a serious accident in the westbound lanes of the Southern State Parkway in West Hempstead on March 29, 2021. The crash involved an overturned vehicle between exits 18 (Eagle Avenu)e and exit 17 (Hempstead

Avenue) around 2330. One person was killed and three others seriously injured. Multiple ambulances were called to the scene along with a Nassau County helicopter.

- Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

Hempstead 2-Car MVA

Hempstead fire units and village police responded to a two-vehicle MVA at the intersection of Front Street and Washington Street on March 27, 2021. There were no serious injuries and fire department services were not required.

- Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

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Fatality at Garden City Park MVA The Garden City Park Fire Department responded to a violent single-car crash on March 5, 2021. A vehicle traveling eastbound on Hillside Avenue with two occupants lost control and plowed into two utility poles near Devonshire Drive. Firefighters worked with ESU units to extricate the driver, but he was deceased.

- Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

MVA in Coram On January 25, 2021 the Coram Fire Department responded to an MVA at the intersection of Glenmere Lane and Route 112 in Coram.

- Fire News photo by Tim Edwards

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Lynbrook Rollover

The Lynbrook Fire Department responded to Sunrise Highway and Atlantic Avenue on March 20, 2021, for an MVA with rollover. At least one person was injured and removed to an area hospital.

- Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

2 Injured in Bellport MVA

On March 22, 2021, the Bellport Fire Department, and South Country Ambulance Company were activated for an MVA on Bellport Avenue.

Commanding units arrived to find a collision involving two-vehicles, with one vehicle into a parked car. Crews secured the vehicles and attended to all fluids and debris in the roadway. Two occupants of one vehicle were transported to a nearby hospital for injuries via a South Country Ambulance. The driver of the other vehicle refused medical attention.

- Fire News photos by Bryan Lopez

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Car Crash in Shirley At approimately 1610 on March 31, 2021, authorities were notified of a car crash on Sunrise Highway westbound, just west of William Floyd Parkway. A pickup reportedly flipped numerous times according to witnesses. Sunrise was closed westbound. Two people were injured and transported to a local hospital. Brookhaven Fire Department, Suffolk Police, and Shirley Ambulance responded.

- Fire News photo by LiHotShots.smugmug.com

Bad MVA on the Sunken Meadow The Kings Park Fire Department and New York State Police responded to an accident on the southbound Sunken Meadow State Parkway at Exit SM4, on March 21, 2021, at 1500. A car traveling southbound lost control striking the guardrail and became airborne, overturning into the northbound lanes. The driver suffered injuries and was transported to Good Samaritan Hospital in West Islip by Kings Park Fire Department Ambulance. The force of the impact caused the motor to become separated from the auto, landing over 100feet away on the roadway.

- Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber

Car into House in Levittown

Garden City MVA

The Levittown Fire Department responded to an MVA with a reported car into a house on Polaris Drive. The driver was charged with DWI. - Fire News photo by PepsFirePhotos

Fortunately, there were only minor injuries at this single-vehicle MVA with entrapment on 11th Street in Garden City early on the morning of March 3, 2021.

- Fire News photo by AJDPhotoG

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Central Islip MVA

The Central Islip Fire Department responded to a report of an MVA at the intersection of East Suffolk Avenue and Sycamore Lane at 1324 on March 19, 2021. First Assistant Chief Mike Zaleski was in command of operations and informed responding units that three vehicles were involved. One injured occupant was transported by the Central Islip-Hauppauge Ambulance Company. Chief Zaleski released all units at 1344.

- Fire News photos by Charles A. Murphy, CIFD Photo Unit

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Baldwin MVA Rollover The Baldwin Fire Department responded to an MVA with rollover on Grand Avenue on April 4, 2021. A second vehicle also sustained some serious damage.

- Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

Hempstead Rollover Hempstead Village Police and Northwell EMS units were on the scene of an MVA with rollover on Allen Street on April 6, 2021. A parked vehicle was also involved but there were no serious injuries reported.

- Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

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Central Islip MVA Chief of Department Chris Portelli and three units from the Central Islip Fire Department were called to the scene of an MVA on Wheeler Road at Marlo Lane on April 10, 2021, at 1221.

Two vehicles were involved. The Central IslipHauppauge Volunteer Ambulance also responded but no transportation was required.

- Fire News photo by Charles A. Murphy, CIFD Photo Unit

East Farmingdale MVA On January 9, 2021, the East Farmingdale Fire Company responded to an MVA with overturn on the southbound portion of Route 110, near Grumman Lane. The driver, who was self-extricated, was transported to a nearby hospital for injuries. Crews secured the involved vehicle, and attended to fluids and debris in the roadway.

- Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez

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2 Dead in LIE Crash On April 5, 2021, Manhasset-Lakeville Fire Department along with Nassau County Police ESU were alerted to the eastbound LIE at Shelter Rock Road for an overturned box truck with entrapment. Upon arrival, crews found a Boar’s Head truck which struck the overpass and split in half. Several cuts were made to access the occupants who had, unfortunately, perished in the crash. The LIE remained closed for several hours as a result of the crash.

- Fire News photo by Captain Lee Genser

Into the House in Bethpage MVA The Bethpage Fire Department and Nassau County Police responded to a single-vehicle MVA on Thorne Drive about 2220, March 1, 2021. When units arrived on scene they found that the driver of a car traveling on Central Avenue had lost control, went off the road and up a hill, and crashed through several fences before hitting the house on the corner of Thorne Drive. The vehicle came to a stop on the exterior basement stairs with the driver's side against the house. The crew from Rescue 3 and Technical Rescue Truck 9011 along with Nassau County Police ESU, removed the passenger side door.

Using a ladder and pulley system, a high point was set up to remove the driver from the vehicle, who was taken to Nassau University Medical Center by Nassau County Police Ambulance. There were no injuries to anyone in the home.

- Fire News photo by Paul Mazza

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Roslyn Heights Stands-by for Polar Bear Plunge On March 13, 2021, members of the Roslyn Highlands Fire Company stood by at Tobay Beach for a polar plunge event benefiting the Special Olympics-New York. Members of the fire company donned water rescue suits and took to the water while others stood by on land. The event saw a strong turnout with the safety of the participants made a priority (pre-assigned time slots were among other precautions taken). Fortunately, the members standing by did not face any emergency situations.

- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com

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East Williston Birthday Drive-by

On the afternoon of January 24, 2021, several fire departments met at East Williston Fire Headquarters to take part in a birthday drive-by for East Williston ex-Chief Nicholas Siciliano who turned 93-years old that day.

Ex-Chief Siciliano is a 51-year member of the East Williston Fire Department and over the years has held several positions including past-President of the North Shore Fire Council, past-President of the North Shore Holy Name Society, and past-President of the East Williston Fire Department Exempts Association. The ex-Chief, who is also a Commissioner Emeritus, was surrounded by family and friends as fire units went by and dignitaries stopped to deliver citations and proclamations.

- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com

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SIZE UP Issue 1 • 2021 From the Chaplains’ Study

The Gifts We Bring to the Fire Service

By Rev. Leon I. VanWie; Chaplain, New York State Association of Fire Chaplains, Inc. A couple weeks ago I had lunch with one of our young firefighters who is studying fire protection technology at our local community college. He loves the course work, but is struggling with his math classes and does not see a big need for trigonometry to fight fires. I mentioned the value of math when it comes to pump ops, and he replied that he will haul hose his whole life, rather than learn math to operate the pump.

We all have different skills and gifts in the fire service, the same as in our faith communities.

Paul wrote to the church at Corinth (1 Corinthians 12:4-11): God's various gifts are handed out everywhere; but they all originate in God's Spirit.

God's various ministries are carried out everywhere; but they all originate in God's Spirit.

God's various expressions of power are in action everywhere; but God himself is behind it all.

Each person is given something to do that shows who God is: Everyone gets in on it, everyone benefits. All kinds of things are handed out by the Spirit, and to all kinds of people! The variety is wonderful: wise counsel, clear understanding,

simple trust, healing the sick, miraculous acts, proclamation, distinguishing between spirits, tongues, and interpretation of tongues. All these gifts have a common origin, but are handed out one by one by the one Spirit of God. He decides who gets what, and when.

In our faith communities we all have gifts that we bring and gifts that can be used to build up the faith.

Consider the different gifts people bring to the fire service — the practical aspects of firefighting, the administrative skills to lead our departments, the relational abilities that strengthen the brother/sisterhood, the ability to teach skills that will endure, the love for fire safety and the ways to share it that help keep society safe, etc.

In our faith communities, it takes all of us to build up the faith. All gifts are essential in faith, as Paul shared with the Corinthians. It seemed that some thought they were more important because of the role they had in the early church.

Paul is clear: We all play an important role, and in the faith community no one is more important than anyone else.

Likewise, in the fire service, it takes all of us using the gifts and abilities we have. The reality is that in our faith communities, we have a hierarchy, as we do in the fire service. Yet, we have

all most likely observed what happens when all the chiefs show up to a working structure fire and no one is there to haul the hose. Everyone has a role to play! What gifts, abilities, strengths, and interests do you bring that are essential and that build up the fire service?

Someone else put it this way…”The razor blade is sharp, but can’t cut a tree; the axe is strong, but can’t cut hair. Everyone is important according to their own unique purpose. Never look down on anyone unless you are admiring their shoes.” *** Rev. Leon VanWie is chief chaplain for the New York State Association of Fire Chaplains, Inc., an organization of nearly 400 members.

VanWie began in the fire service in 1976 and became a chaplain within a year. He was an EMT for over 15 years and currently serves as the chaplain and president for the Town of Watertown Volunteer Fire Department, chaplain for the City of Watertown Fire Department, and deputy fire coordinator for Jefferson County in the role of chaplain. VanWie belongs to numerous county and state fire organizations and has been a pastor since 1973. He can be contacted at leonvanwie@gmail.com or (315) 771-9142 (voice and text).

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Congratulations SCFA Chief Robert Holley

On April 1, 2021, Chief Robert Holley retired as the Executive Director of the Suffolk County Fire Academy. The VEEB would like to take a moment to wish Chief Holley, a healthy and happy retirement. Good luck in your new career of RETIREMENT! Good luck also to the Academy’s new Executive Director, Chief Edward Johnston and Assistant Director, Chief Rudy Sunderman.

- Fire News photos by Ron Monteleone

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Fire News, May 2021, Page 105

Northport 2021 Officers On April 11, 2021, the Northport Fire Department installed their company and department officers for the ensuing year.

- Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber

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Running for Heroes

On March 30, 2021, several Wantagh members took to the streets of Wantagh to run a mile-long tribute to honor the memory of Spring Valley Firefighter Jared Lloyd, who died in the line of duty, and in support of Running 4 Heroes, Inc. Running 4 Heroes was started in 2019 by then 10-year-old Zechariah Cartledge. Zechariah has a passion for running and an appreciation for first responders. Every time a first responder makes the ultimate sacrifice, Zechariah runs a mile in their memory, carrying a flag representing the calling that the first responder served as a way to honor them so, “we

may live in a better world.” He then presents the flag to the family of the fallen. Running 4 Heroes also uses donations to provide financial assistance for the families. To date, Zechariah has run 866 miles.

If you would like to find out more about this organization or to make a donation, please go to their website running4heroes.org or visit their Facebook page. Running 4 Heroes, Inc. is a 501-c3 non-profit organization.

- Fire News photos provided by Lt. Mike Fratello, story by Kevin Regan, PIO

Practice Burn on Dune Road

Honoring 70 Years of Service: Mercedes Quinn to Levittown

The Westhampton Beach Fire Department was able to drill at a soon-to-be-demolished home on Dune Road in Westhampton in March 2021. Forcible entry, search and rescue, hose handling, and communications were all practiced during the three-hour drill.

- Fire News photo courtesy of the Westhampton Beach FD

The Chief’s office, and the officers and members of the Levittown Fire Department and the Ladies Auxiliary are pleased to announce that Mrs. Mercedes Quinn has been awarded a gold shield for her lifetime membership in the Ladies Auxiliary. Mrs. Quinn is a charter member of the Ladies Auxiliary, having joined in September 20, 1951, and is still active with nearly 70 years of service to the department and community. She is also the past-President of the Levittown Ladies Auxiliary and the Nassau County Firefighters Ladies Auxiliary. The department extends its congratulations and thanks to Mrs. Quinn for her dedication and service. In the photo is Ladies Auxiliary Officers Nancy Bentivegna, Lynn Donnery and Diane Williams presenting Mrs. Quinn (center) with her Gold Charter Member shield.

- Fire News photo by Clifford Archer, Secretary

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A Farewell to Glen Cove’s Ladder 5211 On March 24, 2021, the City of Glen Cove Volunteer Fire Department held a farewell ceremony to the fourth tiller truck in the department’s history, Ladder 5211, a 1987 Seagrave Tiller assigned to Hook and Ladder Company 1.

Honoring its service to the City of Glen Cove from 1987-2019, the ceremony commemorated the 32 years of service, and served as the starting of the journey to its new home in Dublin, Ireland, where it will used by a private owner for various charity events as well as a 20th Anniversary ceremony for 9/11 this September. The 1987 Seagrave Tiller is traveling overseas fully loaded with equipment with the assistance of the Terry Farrell Foundation for departments in Ireland.

As the first Chief to drive the apparatus during its delivery, ex-Chief Thomas Cross was chosen to drive the apparatus for the final time in the United States. The procession received a full escort from Glen Cove to the Port of Elizabeth, New Jersey by the Nassau County Highway Patrol, NYPD Highway Patrol, Port Authority Police and the New York City Fire Riders. The 1987 Seagrave is scheduled to set sail next weekend and arrive in Dublin mid- to late-April. We wish 5211 the best in its journey and future service in Ireland.

- Fire News photos by OverTheEdgePhotography.com

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CHANGE OF DATE: FDIC INTERNATIONAL RE-SCHEDULED FOR AUGUST 2 TO 7, 2021 The upcoming FDIC International, scheduled to take place on August 19-24, 2021, at the Indiana Convention Center & Lucas Oil Stadium will now take place August 2-7, 2021.

Recently the Indiana Convention Center presented us with the opportunity to move FDIC International two weeks earlier. After speaking to many of our community members and partners over the past few days, we agreed the move is appropriate. Moving FDIC International to August 2-7, 2021, means: • More hotels will be available (no other events will be in town at the same time), as opposed to limited hotels available during the previous dates. We are working to open our hotel blocks as quickly as possible and will notify you with more details ASAP. • All of FDIC’s conference and keynotes will take place in their historical locations. Moving allowed us access to our full space at the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium. The previous dates would have forced us to use neighboring hotels for our program.

• FDIC International will be back to our traditional day pattern/schedule: • Hands-on Training (H.O.T.) Evolutions & Pre-Conference Workshops: Monday, August 2 - Tuesday, August 3, 2021 • Conference Classroom Sessions: Wednesday, August 4 - Friday, August 6, 2021 • Exhibition Halls and Outdoor Demonstration Areas: Thursday, August 5 - Saturday, August 7, 2021

• This move gives us greater flexibility and less time pressure for Move In/Move Out saving exhibitors overtime labor costs. Move in schedules will become available April 12.

This decision, like the others we’ve made in the past year, was not an easy one. We continue to prioritize your experience, and that includes the health and safety of each person joining us at the event.

We will continue to monitor and comply with state and local health department COVID-19 guidelines. This situation will remain fluid and more information and updates can always be found on our website.

With respect to our obligations to each other under the contract for the Event (the “Contract”), kindly note the following: • The change of date is made pursuant to clause 26 (Cancellation or Changes to Event) to re-schedule the dates of the Event, as referenced above; and • By way of reassurance, pursuant to clause 27 (Consequences of Variation) your booking for the Event under the Contract remains unaffected and continues to apply to the new dates of the Event.

Should you have any queries about the re-scheduled dates, please contact your account manager for more information.

Thank you again for your patience and understanding. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at FDIC@clarionevents.com.

LONG ISLAND’S FIRST FIRE, RESCUE & EMS SUMMER EXPO Welcome to Long Island’s First FIRE, RESCUE, & EMS SUMMER EXPO. This monumental event will be held on Saturday June 12th and Sunday June 13th, 1000 to 1600. The event will be held at Hofstra University, in the David S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex, located at 100 Fulton Avenue, Hempstead NY, 11550.

The event will feature hundreds of exhibitors, offering all the lat-

est and most innovative products, services and equipment needed to be more in alignment with today’s needs. On display will be trucks, ambulances, turnout gear, all the best and up-to-date equipment, and vehicles, to make this EXPO a huge success. Be a part of this new and exciting event. Tickets will be on sale at the door or check with your department for preregistration information.

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Happy 93rd to Karl Thuge

On the evening of April 2, 2021, a surprise birthday drive-by was held for Karl Thuge who turned 93-years old that day. Karl spent 20 years with the Lynbrook Fire Department where he was a member of Engine Company 1 and went on to rise to the rank of Chief of Department — a position he held from 1964 to 1965. Not long after completing his term as Chief, Karl moved to Massapequa, a move which included joining the Massapequa Fire Department of which he has been an active member for the past 55-plus years.

Aside from serving in both the Lynbrook and Massapequa departments and achieving various titles over the years, Karl is most well known for being one of (if not the) top salesmen of Mack fire trucks on Long Island. As many at the Friday evening birthday drive-by recalled, it was not uncommon to see Mack fire trucks lined up in Karl’s East Shore Drive driveway or for him to be on a fire ground showing how tough both he and the Mack fire trucks were. Much of the Massapequa Fire Department along with members of Lynbrook Engine Company 1, family, and friends were present to help celebrate Karl’s birthday.

- Fire News photos by K2M Photography.com

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Kestenbaum Retires After 50 Years On the afternoon of April 3, 2021, family, friends, Town of Babylon fire departments, and dignitaries from the town, county and state gathered at Babylon Town Hall to congratulate Dispatcher 31 and North Lindenhurst Engine Company 2 ex-Captain Ron Kestenbaum who retired after 50 years of service with Babylon Central Alarm.

- Fire News photos by Paul Mazza

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Nassau Chiefs Council Officers for 2021 On December 22, 2020, the Fire Chiefs Council of Nassau County held a meeting at Albertson Fire Headquarters. Due to the ongoing pandemic the meeting was limited to officers and directors while others were able to attend online via Zoom. At the meeting Thomas McDonough of the Port Washington Fire Department was recognized as the outgoing President while John Tassiello of the New Hyde Park Fire Department was sworn in as the new President. Among the other officers sworn in were First Vice-President Jean Laurent (Uniondale Fire Department), Second Vice-President Tony Pellegrino (Oceanside Fire Department), and Sergeant-at-Arms Karen Bendel (Baldwin Fire Department).

- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com

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Thanks to North Merrick’s Ex-Chief Presti Prior to the start of the North Merrick department meeting on the night of April 5, 2021, a small presentation ceremony was held at fire headquarters for the department’s most recent ex-Chief Robert Presti, Jr. The event consisted of presentations from the Chief’s office, various companies, and others to Chief Presti thanking and recognizing him for the six years he spent in the Chief’s office — including the two years in which he led as Chief of the Department. The presentations made are traditionally done at the department’s annual installation dinner; however, due to Covid-19 the department is unsure when the next dinner will be held and wanted to ensure Chief Presti was properly recognized. Joining ex-Chief Presti, Jr., was his wife Jen, sons Keith and Scott, and daughter Julia.

- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com

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FIRSTNET®: MAKING FIRST RESPONDER HEALTH & WELLNESS A TOP PRIORITY

By Jason Porter, President, Public Sector and FirstNet, AT&T • And, more recently, we’ve added more health and wellness apps Four years ago, the federal government selected AT&T to enter into a public-private partnership to build and manage public safety’s net- to the FirstNet App Catalog and supported conferences and seminars work. And when we set out on this historic and critical initiative, we with 1st Responder Conferences.

Moving forward, the FNHWC will serve as the backbone to everycommitted to Be There for America’s first responders. Now, as the FirstNet network turns 3, we’re going beyond our commitment to the thing we do to support the health and wellbeing of first responders.

Coalition priorities were developed from the input of over 350 first federal government and have established the FirstNet Health & Wellness Coalition (FNHWC) to coordinate how we support holistic responders in professions including law enforcement, fire, emergency communications, emergency management, and emergency medical health and wellness of first responders.

Nothing is more important than the lives of first responders and the personnel. Priorities include Post Traumatic Stress, Suicide Prevention, people they serve day in, and day out. These are the men and women Physical Fitness, Stress Management, Resiliency, leadership engagethat run toward emergencies. And we understand the service public ment and others. The coalition will be developing integrated approachsafety provides to our communities does not come without personal es to raising awareness, identifying technical solutions and applications, and local targeted areas to support these priorities. sacrifice and burdens.

We believe FirstNet is the most important wireless network in the With more than two dozen members representing more than 1.3 million first responders — including organizations like the country because it’s serving our first responders and the extended pubInternational Association of Fire Chiefs, International Association of lic safety community. And we have a responsibility unlike any other Chiefs of Police, National Organization of Black Law Enforcement wireless carrier to deliver for America’s first responders. Shaped by the Executives and National Emergency Management Association, to vision of the first responder community and Congress following the name a few — the mission of the FNHWC is to integrate responder, 9/11 terrorist attacks, FirstNet stands above commercial offerings. It is community, industry and academic capabilities to support the health, built with AT&T in public-private partnership with the First Responder wellness and readiness of first responders. We’re focused on collabo- Network Authority (FirstNet Authority) - an independent agency withrating with our members to support healthy, well and resilient first in the federal government. The FirstNet network is providing public responders that are ready to support public safety at a moment’s notice. safety with truly dedicated coverage and capacity when they need it, Our support of first responder health and wellness began long unique benefits like always-on priority and preemption for first responbefore the formation of the FNHWC through dedicated financial and ders, and high-quality Band 14 spectrum. These advanced capabilities help fire, EMS, healthcare workers and law enforcement save lives and resource support to public safety associations and related programs.

• For the past two years, we’ve sponsored the IACP Officer Safety protect their communities.

Just as FirstNet is built for and by first responders, we want to be & Wellness Symposiums which focus on improving officer safety and wellness to enhance the health and effectiveness of officers, as well as there to support the health and well-being of those who serve their communities every day. the safety of the community.

For more information on FirstNet, go to FirstNet.com.

• Just last fall we launched a collaboration with All Clear Foundation to help increase the accessibility of education, resources FirstNet and the FirstNet logo are registered trademarks of the and support that will aid first responders who may be struggling with health wellness challenges brought on by the unique stressors of their First Responder Network Authority. All other marks are the property of their respective owners. jobs.

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Fire News, May 2021, Page 115

Remembering FF Anthony Cardillo

On March 27, 2021, members of the Massapequa Fire Department and North Massapequa Fire Department along with Town of Oyster Bay Public Safety and Bay Constables gathered on North Broadway in North Massapequa to honor Firefighter Anthony Cardillo who died one year ago in a vehicle accident while working as a Public Safety Officer for the Town of Oyster Bay. Also present were members of Anthony’s family. Anthony is truly missed by his fellow firefighters.

- Fire News photos by Ed Tuffy

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Aircraft Rescue Drill a Huge Success On March 14, 2021, Farmingdale’s Village, South and East Fire Departments participated in an aircraft rescue awareness drill at Farmingdale’s Republic Airport. With a recent increased number of aircraft incidents and aviation related emergencies, the multiagency drill was designed to help mutual aid first responders better prepare themselves for responding to these alarms. The event was hosted by Farmingdale Village 1st Assistant Chief Walter Buser, also a private jet pilot and aircraft manager. With the help of Nassau and Suffolk Police aviation units, Republic Airport ARFF, Sheltair, and multiple private agencies, the various exhibits and presentations helped familiarize the Farmingdale departments with different types of aircraft and further advance the knowledge of response strategies. The drill was a huge success.

- Fire News photos by Mike Oppedisano

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Red Knights 25 Donate to the Burn Center The Red Knights MC NY Chapter 25 donated $8,500 to the Suffolk County Volunteer Firefighters Burn Center on March 22, 2021.

Red Knights MC NY Chapter 25 has given well over $150,000 in financial help to the Burn Center Fund in past 15 years. Thanks to ALL of you who come every year and participate. The Red Knights NY 25 have postponed their Annual Bike Blessing Fundraiser run to September 19, 2021.

- Fire News photos by Ron Monteleone

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Fire News, May 2021, Page 119

Happy 88th Papa Pete

On March 21, 2021, members of the Bellmore Fire Department went to the Massapequa Rehab Center for a surprise birthday drive by for Honorary Chief Peter Schmalenberger, Jr., (also known as ‘Papa Pete,’) who turned 88-years old the next day. Honorary Chief Schmalenberger, a member of Engine 2, has 66 years of service with the Bellmore Fire Department. Members of the department were joined by family and friends of Papa Pete to give their birthday wishes.

- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com

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MOTLEY CREWS OF THE MONTH

Firefighters from the Ronkonkoma Fire Department.

- Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez

Members of the Farmingville Fire Department Bandits Drill Team.

- Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez

Riverhead Fire Department firefighters.

- Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone

Westhampton Beach Fire Department crew after a Dune Road house drill.

- Fire News photo courtesy of the Westhampton Beach FD

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Up Close & Personal

Roosevelt Fire Department Captain Dawkins on the scene of a recent twoalarm fire in Roosevelt.

- Fire News photo by OverTheEdgePhotography.com

Baldwin 3rd Assistant Chief Hopkins at the scene of a recent fire in Roosevelt.

- Fire News photo by OverTheEdgePhotography.com

Huntington Manor Firefighter Mark Forland.

- Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez

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Fire News, May 2021, Page 123

Up Close & Personal

Lieutenant Ianelli of Hempstead Truck 1, on the scene of a recent working fire in Hempstead.

- Fire News photo by OverTheEdgePhotography.com

Rockville Centre Truck Captain P. Healey at a recent building fire in Hempstead.

- Fire News photo by AJDPhotoG

(Photo left) Commack Fire Department Company 3 Lieutenants at the scene of an accident on February 27, 2021.

Second Lieutenant Pete Paccione, who is also a Commissioner and former Chief, and his son, 1st Lieutenant Danny Paccione.

- Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber (Photo right) Baldwin Deputy Chiefs Dworsak and Hopkins on the scene of an MVA with overturn on March 22, 2021.

- Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com Members of the Westbury Fire Department with a combined 94 years of service.

(Left to right): 2nd Assistant Chief Tim Stewart, former Chief Walter Stewart and Lieutenant Craig Stewart.

- Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber

Firefighter Mienko, of Glen Cove Hook and Ladder, who was one of the firefighters vital in the rescue of a trapped occupant at a recent house fire.

- Fire News photo by AJDPhotoG

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Fire News, May 2021, Page 125

Dedication

Valley Stream’s Michael J. Field

On the morning of April 11, 2021, the Valley Stream Fire Department and Rescue Company 1 held a dedication ceremony for Ambulance 349 in memory of Chief Michael J. Field who passed away on April 8, 2020, from Covid-19 after previously transporting a patient with the virus.

Field was a 33-year member of the Valley Stream Fire Department and an ex-captain of Rescue Company. Following his death, he was posthumously promoted to the rank of Chief by then Chief of Department Jason Croak.

Michael Field was also an essential part of the Valley Stream Fire Department’s junior program, was an FDNY EMT for 20 years, and assisted in the efforts at Ground Zero following the September 11 terrorist attacks.

Chief Field is survived by his wife Stacey and three sons — Steven, Richard, and Jason all of whom were at the Sunday morning dedication along with much of the department. A plaque was also unveiled on the front of fire headquarters.

- Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com

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