VOLUME XLII, NO. 10
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Since 1973 JUNE 2015
Turn to page 6 for the story. -Fire News photo by Dennis Whittam
Fire News Welcomes All to the NYS Fire Chiefs Expo Visit us in the Event Center Booth 1121
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Fire News, June 2015, Page 3
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In this issue... Elmont Snuffs Laundromat Blaze An overnight blaze destroyed an Elmont laundromat on Village Avenue.
See story page 22
Multi-Structure Fire in East Meadow Two garages and a shed on fire extend to two houses and take an hour to stop. See story page 40
Coram House Fire Coram responds to a house fire which turns out to be in an ex-firefighter’s home. See story page 48
Fatality, Fire in Baldwin MVA A vehicle overturned into a building, igniting both car and building, and killing the driver. See story page 76
South Fork Fire Police Dinner Fire police from Montauk to Eastport get together. See story page 97
Obits: Lynbrook’s ex-Chief Frank G. Morris and Sayville’s Honorary Chief Dominick Catera .
See story page 119 & 121
A Service for Long Island Firefighters and EMS Heroes Founded 1973
146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713 FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher TIM EDWARDS, Executive Editor DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor GARY P. JOYCE, Asst. Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production/Sales LYNN SEDLER, Art Director CLIFF CHIESA, Production Manager Advertising Sales: BARBARA CONNOLLY, EVELYN ALOISIO Graphic Artist: GREG JONES, JEB LADOUCEUR, Publisher Emeritus CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: Tim Asbell, Bill Bennett, Chris Brenner, Kirk Candan, George Caracost, Wayne Carrington, Mike Cimino, Charles Cole, Joe Comprato, Ed Coppa, Bill D’Alessandro, Mike DesCalso, Jim Dunn, Larry Fox, Lou Gelabart, Martin Goffe, Myron Goldstein, Richard Gomez, Bryan Gosik, Carol Griffin, Brian Grogan, Steve Grogan, Daniel Gunther, Michael Gunther, Jeff Havlik, Jack Healy, Branden Heller, Michael Heller, Robert Holley, Andrew House, Linda Imbriale, Kevin Imm, John Ippolito, Joe LaPietra, Paul Llobell, Bryan Lopez, Harry Loud, Andrew McShane, Brad Maier, Paul Mazza, Terry McCarrick, Mike McCarthy, Lou Minutoli, Ron Monteleone, Jim Mooney, Ilene Morris, Michael Murphy, Charles A. Murphy, Phil Orlando, Robert O'Rourk, Francis "Sid" Parkan, Kevin Parkan, Tom Pesce, Kevin Peterson, Jackson Pokress, Myles Quinn, Christina Rahn, Leonard Rivera, Dave Rubin, Jerry Rudolph, Jim Rugen, Orlando Salcedo, Steve Schaefer, Alan Shields, Drew Silverman, Steve Silverman, Steve Smaldon, Tom Smyth Jr., Bob Sorenson, Joe Sperber, Rich Stark, Andrew Tetreault, Ed Tuffy, Joe Turner, Walker Turner, Alex VanSantvoord, Joe Virgilio, Joe Volpi, Dennis Whittam, Michael Wiwczar, John Wladyka Jr. COLUMNISTS: Bruce Johnson, John Salka, Chief Billy Goldfeder, Bradley Pinsky, Roseann Mariani COPYRIGHT 2015, THE FIRE NEWS LLC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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Letters to the Editor, byline articles, and columns represent the opinions of the writers and photographers and are not necessarily the views of the Fire News. We reserve the right to edit all of the above. We are not responsible for errors in advertisements beyond the cost of advertising space. Copy submitted is subject to editing for space requirements. The placing of an advertisement in this publication does not constitute endorsement. Contents are copyrighted. Editorial and advertising copy cannot be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Fire News is published monthly by Fire News LLC, with corporate offices at 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713.
42 Years of Excellence As you know, Fire News is in its 42nd year of publication. If you have any stories, photos and good memories from the past, please send them to LI@FireNews.com.
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
History Repeats Itself As I am writing my monthly editorial, tens of thousands of police officers, first responders and civilians are gathering in Bethpage, New York, to pay respects to NYPD Officer Brian Moore, who was slain by a thug, oh wait, I can’t say that, I stand corrected, I will say slain by a criminal. On Monday, City of Poughkeepsie firefighter Timothy Gunther will be laid to rest. Firefighter Gunther died in the Line of Duty while operating at a fire on May 5, 2015. On May 6, 2015, Washington, DC, firefighter Kevin McCrae was also killed in the Line of Duty. Fire News offers its sincerest condolences to the families and departments of our fallen responders. On May 7, 2015, I attended a class given to fire coordinators in Suffolk County (New York) in conjunction with the Suffolk County Police Department and Suffolk County EMS. The class, entitled Coordinated Response to Active Shooter Scenarios, opened my eyes and reminded me of the many — yes many — incidents that have happened in the world since 2000. If incidents involving active shooters are increasing, my question to you is; are you prepared? Columbine, Mumbai, Aurora had one thing in common: the threat of facing multiple threats simultaneously. In 2011, an EMT was shot in Baltimore. In 2012, four responders were shot, two fatally, in Webster, NY. Did you forget about these incidents? How about the teachers and students who lost their lives in Sandy Hook? It has been only recently that I have been hearing of drills designed to test responders' skills and protocols for future incidents. Let’s face facts, horrible acts of violence will happen again. Are you prepared to handle this type of disaster? Brushfire season is upon us. There have been large fires throughout the country and the season has only begun. I remember back in 1995 when I watched flames jump across Sunrise Highway. Up until that fire, I thought I was a seasoned firefighter capable of handling any fire that came along. Boy, was I wrong! Last week I shared my experience with two of our probationary firefighters. I asked them if they had any idea how to fight a brush fire. Their honest answer was no. I appreciated their honesty and took them over to our department brush truck and proceeded to go over what they needed to know if they ended up on the truck. Simple things like how to stretch hose so the nozzleman could do his job. I think I opened the eyes of two enthusiastic probies. Experienced responders must take the time to share their experiences with our inexperienced members. After all, history repeats itself. If you were part of your company’s history, you must share your experiences with your newer members. More importantly, the company must listen to your stories because history repeats itself. Stay safe, Dennis
THANK YOU! 91,400 for the likes! (Let’s make it 100,000!)
ANNOUNCEMENTS ADAPTED AQUATICS AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE PROGRAMS
Register Now for CPR and/or Emergency Response Courses for Summer 2015. The Department of Adapted Aquatics and Emergency Response Programs in the School of Health Technology and Management/HSC will be offering the following courses during Summer 2015: Summer Session II Summer Session I (July 6 - Aug. 15, 2015) (May 26 - July 2, 2015) HSQ 270.02 (64774): HSQ 270.01 (64773): Emergency Response, Emergency Response, Cardiopulmonary Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation/AED, and Resuscitation/AED, and Personal Safety - Mon./Wed., Personal Safety - Mon./Wed., 1800 - 2110 1800 - 2110 HSQ 271.02 (64806): HSQ 271.01 (64772): Instructor of Cardiopulmonary Instructor of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation - Mon./Wed., Resuscitation - Mon./Wed., 1800 - 2110 1800 - 2110 HSQ 272.02 (64807): HSQ 272.01 (64791): Instructor of First-Aid Instructor of First-Aid (Emergency Response) (Emergency Response) Mon./Wed., 1800 - 2110 Mon./Wed., 1800 - 2110 HSQ 475 (64851): HSQ 475 (64850): Teaching Practicum I - TBA Teaching Practicum I - TBA HSQ 476 (64852): HSQ 476 (64792): Teaching Practicum II - TBA Teaching Practicum II - TBA All above courses will be offered on West Campus in SBS room S218. Please note that the Fall 2015 courses are currently online. Please see SOLAR for more details regarding registration. Also note that HSQ 270 issues certification in the highest levels of CPR/AED and Emergency Response training, and the certification meets the necessary requirements for all HSC undergraduate and graduate academic and clinical programs and/or all applications and interviews requiring CPR and First-Aid/Emergency Response training. Also note that the certificates issued meet the necessary requirements for public servants such as swimming instructors, lifeguards, teachers, camp counselors, police, firefighters, EMS workers, ambulance personnel, athletic coaches, personal trainers, etc.
NYSAFC TO HOST 9/11 MEMORIAL STAIR CLIMB AT FIRE 2015
Show others that you will never forget the 343 members of FDNY who bravely gave their lives on September 11, 2001. Join the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs (NYSAFC) and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) on Friday, June 19, 2015, for the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb during the NYSAFC 109th Annual Conference & FIRE 2015 Expo at the Turning Stone Resort in Verona, New York. Participants will climb the Turning Stone Resort tower hotel stairwell multiple times for a total of 110 stories, representing the number of floors in the Twin Towers. Registration is $35 and is open to FIRE 2015 attendees and the public at www.firehero.org/event/stairclimb15-nysafc. The climb at FIRE 2015 is limited to 100 participants, so advance registration is recommended. Everyone will receive a photo ID of one of the fallen heroes of September 11 to carry with them and an event t-shirt. Check-in and on-site registration (space permitting) is at 0700 in the Oak Room located in the Turning Stone’s tower hotel meeting room area. The climb starts at 0800 Participants wishing to make the climb in turnout gear and SCBA may do so if desired, but must bring their own gear and SCBA. This is entirely optional and not required. Proceeds will benefit the FDNY Counseling Unit and the programs provided by the NFFF to support the families of our nation's fallen firefighters. For more information about the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climbs and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, go to www.firehero.org. The Career Fire Chiefs of New York State will provide assistance to NYSAFC in coordinating and sponsoring the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb at FIRE 2015. NYSAFC will also host the Cookin’ In the House: Chili Challenge on Friday evening, from 1830 to 2030 in the Cypress Rooms of the Turning Stone Resort to benefit the NFFF. Entrance tickets are $5 per person and will be available on-site during FIRE 2015. Last year, this event raised over $1,400 for the NFFF. Learn more about NYSAFC and the FIRE 2015 Expo at www.nysfirechiefs.com.
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ANNOUNCEMENTS FIREFIGHTERS LOBBY FOR MORE EFFECTIVE SMOKE ALARMS, PRESUMPTIVE CANCER COVERAGE, MORE
Firefighters from across New York State assembled in Albany recently to meet with elected officials and discuss a wide range of issues. The group was led by the presidents of the Firemen’s Association of the State of New York, the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs, and the Association of Fire Districts of the State of New York, and was joined by two volunteer firefighters who are also cancer survivors. This year’s legislative agenda is headlined by presumptive cancer coverage for volunteer firefighters, allowing local fire departments to bill insurance providers for ambulance calls, and a requirement for longer lasting, more reliable smoke alarms. Brian McQueen and Dan Schwertfeger are intimately familiar with the challenges faced by volunteer firefighters diagnosed with cancer - both are cancer survivors themselves. Firefighters are exposed to high concentrations of carcinogens while in the line of duty, and are at a higher risk for cancer than the general population. Despite this, volunteer firefighters have no formal protection in the event of a cancer diagnosis. This is a glaring hole in the state-level safety net that FASNY is determined to address. No firefighter ever volunteered to get cancer. “We’ve done our part,” said FASNY President Robert McConville. “We are pushing an aggressive health and safety training program for all volunteer firefighters in the state to try and minimize the risk of cancer, but the simple truth is that as long as there are fires, there will be firefighters exposed to high levels of carcinogens. We call on Albany to make sure that no volunteer firefighter ever has to face cancer alone.” Smoke alarms are the most important appliance a home can have, but too many times firefighters arrive at a house only to find that alarms have been disconnected or are missing batteries. Volunteer fire service leaders across the state support the adoption of a law that would require batterypowered alarms to be equipped with sealed-in, non-removable batteries that last for at least 10 years. “These longer lasting smoke alarms will save lives,” said Donald Corkery, President of the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs. “Too many lives have been lost in houses without working smoke alarms, and
these 10-year alarms make homes safer. They also protect our firefighters, who will be more likely to find a burning home evacuated, rather than risk life and limb to rescue trapped residents. Let’s make New York safer for homeowners and firefighters alike.” The number of ambulance calls is on the rise across the state, placing a considerable burden on fire departments that also handle medical emergencies. Stand-alone volunteer ambulance corps and paid ambulance services routinely bill patients’ insurance providers, while fire department-operated ambulances are not allowed to do so by the law. “The simple truth is that ambulance calls are resource-intensive,” said Thomas Herlihy, President of the Association of Fire Districts of the State of New York. “Our EMTs must spend more time than ever before training and learning the newest medical protocols, and this is happening at a time when our EMS call volume is steadily rising. Billing a patient’s insurance provider will allow fire departments to recover some of the cost of that call, while not imposing any hardship on the patient themselves and reducing costs to taxpayers.”
COLD SPRING HARBOR GOLF CLASSIC
Save the date! The Cold Spring Harbor Fire Department will be holding their annual golf classic on Monday, August 3, 2015, at the Huntington Country Club. For more information, please call 631-692-6772.
WHERE ARE YOUR DEPARTMENT'S PHOTOS?
We would like to remind our readers that we are always happy to receive photos and stories from departments who have never been in our paper. Feel free to e-mail your photos to li@fire news.com. We ask that any photo you do send be high resolution (300 dpi or better) and that you do not retouch, crop, alter or reduce your photos in size when you e-mail them to us. Please send two to four photos per incident. Also, include a brief write-up of the incident, event, or family news, which includes basic “who, what, when, and where information.” We look forward to seeing your department in our next issue. - Ed.
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Fully Involved in Terryville On May 13, 2015, the Terryville Fire Department responded to a call for smoke in the area. Assistant Chief Thomas Young (5A4-32) responded and immediately discovered a fully involved structure fire on Joline Road. The department responded and, with the help of firefighters from Port Jefferson and Selden, the blaze was brought under control. Coram provided an ambulance to the scene and the Setauket and Port Jefferson Volunteer Ambulance Corp covered the Terryville district. The fire was under the command of Chief of Department Rich McCarren. -Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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NYPD Officer Brian Moore
On May 8, 2015, police officers from around the country as well as other mourners lined Stewart Ave between Chapey and Sons Funeral Home on Hicksville Road in Bethpage, and St. James Roman Catholic Church in Bethpage to pay tribute to fallen NYPD Officer Brian Moore who was shot while attempting to question a suspect in Queens on May 2, 2015. - Fire News photos by Eddie Coppa, Bill D’Alessandro, Tom Pesce and Jack Healy
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Quick Stop for Farmingville
On April 26, 2015, the Farmingville Fire Department was activated for a brush fire in the vicinity of the K-Mart shopping center on North Ocean Avenue. Unit 5-18-31 confirmed fire and only one engine and a brush truck were required. - Fire News photos by Amanda Coffey
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N. Massapequa Fire
The North Massapequa Fire Department responded to a house fire on North Atlanta Avenue on April 27, 2015. Upon arrival of firefighters a fire, which appeared to have started on the exterior of the home, extended throughout the interior. Three residents, including a child, suffered smoke inhalation and were transported to Saint Joseph’s Hospital in Bethpage. Mutual aid was requested to the scene from several fire departments including Bethpage, Massapequa, Wantagh, South Farmingdale and Seaford. It took an hour to bring the blaze under control. The Nassau County Fire Marshal office was notified to investigate the cause. - Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber and Paul Mazza
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Quick Work in Wantagh
On April 19, 2015, Wantagh firefighters from Stations 1, 2 and 4 extinguished a shed fire behind a Lynn Lane home. There were no injuries and the fire was labelled as accidental. - Fire News photo by Harry Loud
Farmingdale Garage Fire
On April 18, 2015, the Village of Farmingdale Fire Department was activated for a car fire with minor extension to a garage on Conklin Street. Squad 4 and Ladder 6 operated under the direction of 9201. - Fire News photo by Mike Oppedisano
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Nesconset House Goes
On April 18, 2015, the Nesconset Fire Department was activated for a residential structure fire on Mayfair Road. Upon arrival, Chief 44-30 was met with heavy fire condition on the exposure 4 side. Command requested mutual aid from Ronkonkoma, Smithtown, St. James, Hauppauge, Centereach and Nissequogue. The fire extended to a neighboring house. One person was transported to Stony Brook University Hospital. - Fire News photos by Bryan Lopez and Joseph C. Sperber
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3-Alarmer Uniondale Fire On February 18, 2015, the Uniondale Fire Department was alerted to a house fire on Dale Place. Upon arrival, firefighters found a two-story home with heavy fire through the roof in the rear. A second alarm was struck when the hydrant on the fire block was found to be frozen, causing the first-due crews to quickly backstretch from two blocks away. A third alarm was struck for additional manpower as the fire proved to be stubborn. Assisting were East Meadow, West Hempstead, Baldwin, Hempstead and South Hempstead Ambulance. - Fire News photos by Tim Asbell
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Copiague House Fire The Copiague Fire Department was alerted for a house fire on Minerva Road East on May 3, 2015. Upon the chiefs’ arrivals, heavy fire was showing from the exposure two side and heavy smoke pushing from the rest of the one-story home. Engine 1-39 and Ladder 1-3-4 stretched two lines to the house and began searches and venting. It took about 30 minutes to bring the fire under control with the home heavily damaged. Lindenhurst was requested to the scene for RIT. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
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4 Injured in Centereach Blaze
Early on May 3, 2015, the Centereach Fire Department was activated for a reported structure fire on Forest Road. Updated reports of occupants trapped within the residence were received. Prior to fire unit arrivals, one occupant jumped from a window to safety, and another occupant was assisted down a ladder by two Suffolk County Police officers. Upon arrival, Chief 5-5-33 was met with heavy smoke and fire and requested mutual aid from Selden and Stony Brook to the scene. Four people were transported to the hospital and the homeowner’s dog perished. - Fire News photos by Bryan Lopez
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The Wheels on the Bus ...
On May 1, 2015, Coram firefighters were called to multiple bus fires at the Baumann & Sons bus yard on West Yaphank Road in Medford. Four busses were destroyed and two others damaged. - Fire News photo by AJ Ryan
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Brush Fire in Massapequa
On April 16, 2015, the Massapequa Fire Department was called out for a brush fire in the woods between the Southern State Parkway and Pepper Circle North. The fire, which appeared to have started as a result of a blown electrical phase on a utility pole, was fueled by a thick undergrowth of dry leaves and strong winds. Crews were
battling several brush fires in the area that afternoon and were stretched thin but were able to bring the fire under control in just under an hour. The South Farmingdale Fire Department was also on scene. - Fire News photos by Tim Asbell
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Elmont Douses Laundromat Fire
An overnight blaze destroyed an Elmont laundromat on Village Avenue early on May 3, 2015. The fire was reported at a strip mall and took about 30 minutes to bring under control. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com, EFD Photo Unit and Paul Mazza
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Yaphank Warehouse Fire On May 1, 2015, the Yaphank Fire Department was activated for a commercial structure fire at a storage warehouse off Old Dock Road. Upon arrival, Chief Chris Austin 5-30-30 found smoke showing and a fire inside the warehouse to the rear of the building on the 2/3 corner. Mutual aid was requested from Brookhaven and Medford. The fire was quickly knocked down. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Quick Job in Levittown Levittown firefighters wet down the rear wall of a Tallow Lane home on April 24, 2015. They arrived to find an attached garage fully involved. One ladder from Wantagh was requested and put to work. - Fire News photo by Harry Loud
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West Babylon House Fire
On May 2, 2015, the West Babylon Fire Department was alerted for a house fire on 3rd Street just off Little East Neck Road. Second Assistant Chief Schumann arrived to smoke showing from a two-story house. Chief of Department McArdle and First Assistant Chief Manzi arrived shortly after. Engine 1-9-6 was first due followed by Engines 1-9-8, 1-9-3 and Heavy Rescue 1-915. The engine crews stretched two lines to extinguish the fire on the second floor of the exposure 1-2 corner. The crew from 1-9-15 laddered, searched and vented the house. It took about 30 minutes to bring the fire under control. North Lindenhurst was requested to the scene for RIT. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
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Thinking Outside the Box
The Selden Fire Department responded to a truck fire on April 27, water source hooked to a garden hose. The Chief received help from 2015. The fire started in the engine compartment and 2nd Assistant Engine 5 and Engine 12 to knock down the rest of the fire. - Fire News photo by Cameron Wilken Chief Panebianco contained it by using the cement truck’s on-board
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Good Work in Wantagh
Fast Job in Hempstead
On April 25, 2015, Wantagh firefighters responded to a call of smoke coming from the roof area of a home on Hunt Road. The fire was located in the rear, climbing from the gutter area up into three bays of the home. Crews opened the roof and interior ceilings to check for extension. Cameras were utilized to check for extension with negative results. - Fire News photo by Harry Loud
The Hempstead Fire Department responded to a working house fire on Dartmouth Street on May 4, 2015. The one-room fire was promptly knocked down by first arriving engine company members. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Bay Shore House Fire On May 4, 2015, the Bay Shore Fire Department activated for a working residential structure fire on Atlantic Avenue. While 3-1-31, Ed Kunz, Jr., had command of the scene, 3-1-32, Jerry Rockfeld, had command of operations. Unit 3-1-1 grabbed a hydrant while Engine 3-1-2 stayed signal 9 on the hydrant. Islip’s Ladder 3-4-11 set up for roof operations. Two lines were stretch from 3-1-1. The home, a high ranch, was heavily damaged on the second floor. In addition to Islip, mutual aid came from West Islip, while East Islip and Brentwood stood by at Bay Shore. Bay Shore Brightwaters Rescue Ambulance also responded. One dog died in the fire. - Fire News photos by Richard Stark
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Brush Fire in Deer Park On April 25, 2015, the Dix Hills Fire Department responded to a brush fire on the Pilgrim State Preserve. The fire started and spread into the Deer Park Fire Department’s district. A total of 26 departments were needed to put out the quick moving fire. Chief Larry Bradbury directed the departments’ stump jumpers. The fire was brought under control in about three hours. - Fire News photos by BTFirePhoto.com
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Home Destroyed in Levittown
A raging fire destroyed a Levittown home on the morning of April of black smoke that could be seen for miles. The heat from the blaze 23, 2015. Levittown firefighters responded to the Myrtle Lane caused extensive exterior damage to adjacent homes. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com address and found the house totally engulfed in flames with a cloud
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Quick Work in Massapequa
On April 13, 2015, the Massapequa Fire Department responded to located in a first-floor front bedroom, was quickly extinguished and a call from a homeowner reporting a fire in her home. Chief of contained to the bedroom. Seaford responded to the scene as a - Fire News photo by Ed Tuffy Department 6300 arrived on scene and instructed first-due Engine FAST unit. 6314, to pick up a hydrant and stretch two lines. The fire, which was
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No Trucks on the SSP ... Again
On April 24, 2015, Wantagh firefighters responded to a semi-truck which made a wrong turn on the southbound Route 135, entered the Southern State Parkway and struck an overpass. The driver was injured. Later, while off-loading the truck, the Wantagh Fire Department was called once again as a car entered into the accident scene and struck the rear of a State Police cruiser. The driver of the car sustained minor injuries. - Fire News photo by Harry Loud
Franklin Sq. Fire
The Franklin Square and Munson Fire Department responded to the report of a house fire on Hancock Street on April 30, 2015. Most of the fire was confined to the exterior of the home but there was some extension into the upper floor. Mutual aid companies were on the scene to assist. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Dryer Fire in Wantagh
Quick Stop In Melville
The Wantagh Fire Department under the command of 1st Assistant Chief Joe Gross responded to a dryer fire on May 5, 2015, on Spruce Street in Wantagh. The fire extended from the dryer into the walls causing smoke to fill the basement. The fire was contained to it origin. - Fire News photo by Jack Healy
On April 27, 2015, the Melville Fire Department responded to Penn Drive for a house fire. Upon arrival, Chief Michael McKeefrey called for mutual aid from Huntington Manor and Dix Hills. A quick response contained the fire to an upstairs room and minor damage to a washer and dryer room on the ground floor. An electrical fault was determined to be the cause. - Fire News photo by Tom Pesce
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Levittown Blaze
On May 4, 2015, the Levittown Fire Department took multiple calls for a house fire on Flamingo Road. First arriving units had heavy smoke showing from the house on the exposure three side. Engine 622 was first due and was followed by Engines 625, 627 and 623. Ladder 621 arrived and its crew began searching, venting and laddering. The engine crews had multiple lines stretched, as there was heavy fire traveling throughout the knee walls and attic, which had come through the roof in several spots. Mutual aid was provided to the scene by East Meadow and Wantagh. Chief of Department Epple was in charge. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza and Kevin Imm
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Westbury Building Fire The Westbury Fire Department responded to a building fire on New York Avenue on April 29, 2015. Upon arrival, firefighters were confronted with a fire in the roof area of the DF Allen carting facility. This was the second fire at the location in less than 12 hours. It took 30 minutes to bring this blaze under control and did not appear to be suspicious in nature. - Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber and Kevin Imm
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Dryer Fire in Farmingdale
On April 14, 2015, the Farmingdale Fire Department responded to a dryer fire at the Strafford Green Condominium complex on Fulton Street. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
Pet Saved in Lakeview
The Lakeview Fire Department responded to a house fire on April 12, 2015. The fire was located in the kitchen of a private dwelling on Oriole Avenue. Firefighters were able to locate and remove a family pet from the house. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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East Meadow Multi-Structure Fire The East Meadow Fire Department responded to a fire which appeared to have started in the rear of a Bright Avenue residence on April 15, 2015. Upon arrival of firefighters, two garages and a shed were involved, extending to the siding of homes on both Bright Avenue and Post Street. Additional firefighters from Levittown, North Bellmore, Westbury and Hicksville responded to extinguish the blaze, which took over an hour to control. The Nassau County Fire Marshal along with Nassau County police were called to investigate. - Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
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Electrical Fire in Hempstead
On April 15, 2015, the Hempstead Fire Department responded to a basement electrical fire on Manor Avenue in the village. Truck 1 took the front of the house while Engine 1 picked up a hydrant. West Hempstead responded with Ladder 765 as the FAST unit. The power was turned off and the fire knocked down. Ladder 765 opened up, did searches and found some firearms, which were removed from the house. Chief Folk had the inside while Chief Sanders had the outside command. - Fire News photos by Bill D’Alessandro
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Electrical Fire in Garden City
The Garden City Fire Department was on the scene of a house fire on Wilson Street on the afternoon of May 4, 2015. The fire originated in an electrical fixture and was quickly extinguished. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Island Park Fire
The Island Park Fire Department responded to a fire in an auto repair shop on April 29, 2015. Units were faced with a fire in an auto which was still on a lift in the Austin Boulevard shop. Mutual aid companies assisted to bring the blaze under control. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Basement Fire in Central Islip
A basement fire was reported on Evergreen Avenue in Central Islip involve a clothes dryer. The CIFD responded with six units and 45 on March 17, 2015. Central Islip Chief of Department Kevin firefighters, and Chief McAteer requested mutual aid from McAteer, Jr., reported smoke showing on arrival. A rapid interior Brentwood, East Brentwood, Islip Terrace and Hauppauge. - Fire News photo by Charles A. Murphy, CIFD Photo Unit attack quickly had the fire under control which was found to
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Another Garage Fire in Dix Hills
The Dix Hills Fire Department battled an early morning garage fire brought under control within a half-hour, under the command of on April 21, 2015, on Campbell Drive. Two residents were able to Assistant Chief Tom Napolitano and operations’ sectors handled by escape unharmed from the smoky blaze in the two-story home. Assistant Chiefs Alan Berkowitz and Joe Williamson. - Fire News photos courtesy Dix Hills FD About 50 firefighters from Dix Hills and Greenlawn quickly contained the blaze using seven pieces of apparatus. The fire was
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Coram House Fire On May 6, 2015, the Coram Fire Department responded to a working structure fire that turned out to be at a former Coram firefighter’s home. Mutual aid came from Selden, Middle Island, Gordon Heights and Terryville. - Fire News photos by Jim Dunn
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Fire News, June 2015, Page 49
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An Inauspicious Start to Things
The Massapequa Fire Department responded with Second Assistant bridal party. It was reported that the Rolls Royce had a mechanical Chief Stansberry, Engine 6315 and Ladder 632 to a reported vehi- issue prior to the fire. The fire spread to an Audi SUV that was cle fire on Pacific Street on April 25, 2015. Chief Stansberry arrived parked in front of the house, destroying both vehicles. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza to find two vehicles involved in the street. The vehicle where the fire started was a 1933 Rolls Royce that was on its way to pick up a
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Dix Hills Battles Basement Fire The Dix Hills Fire Department responded to Durham Drive and their second house fire in eight hours on April 21, 2015. Firefighters found a heavy smoke condition upon arrival and located the fire in the basement, which burned through the stairs. The female resident safely evacuated. Fifty firefighters from Dix Hills, Melville and Deer Park battled the blaze with six trucks. The Dix Hills Rescue Squad had two ambulances, a rehab unit, and paramedic responder on the scene for EMS support. Greenlawn and Commack Ambulance Corps provided a standby engine and ambulance. The fire was under the command of Second Assistant Chief Alan Berkowitz, with operations handled by Third Assistant Chief Joe Williamson. The fire appeared to be electrical in origin. - Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
Garage Fire in Dix Hills The Dix Hills Fire Department was dispatched to an automatic alarm at a house on Dulce Lane, on April 19, 2015. First arriving units found a light smoke condition and quickly located the fire in an attached garage. Chief Robert Fling was in charge with operations handled by Third Assistant Chief Joe Williamson. Fifty personnel were on the scene with six trucks, two ambulances, first responder and paramedic units. - Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
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Worker on Talmadge Gate
The Setauket Fire Department received a call for a fire on Talmadge Gate. Chief Paul Rodier was first on scene to a house which appeared to be one third involved. A woman was found outside on the driveway. Her condition did not appear entirely normal and she was taken by Setauket Fire Department ambulance to Stony Brook University Medical Center. Setauket was assisted by firefighters from Stony Brook, Terryville, Centereach, St. James, Port Jefferson and Nesconset. The fire, having apparently started well prior to the alarm being given, consumed at least 60 percent of the house, leaving it uninhabitable. - Fire News photos by Robert O’Rourk
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Fire News, June 2015, Page 55
Structure Fire in Nesconset
Recently, the Nesconset Fire Department made an aggressive interior attack on a structure fire, knocking down the fire quickly. Mutual aid came from Ronkonkoma, St. James, Smithtown and Lakeland. - Fire News photo by Ron Moneleone
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Flames KO’d in Coram On April 28, 2015, the Coram Fire Department responded to a fully involved house fire on Hartsdale Lane. It took three handlines and a mutual aid response from Selden and Terryville to safely bring the flames under control. -Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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Sound Beach Worker On May 4, 2015, the Sound Beach Fire Department was alerted for a fully involved structure fire on Hewlett Drive. Arriving units made an aggressive attack on the fire which was beginning to autoexpose to a neighboring home. With the help of departments from Rocky Point and Miller Place, the blaze was brought under control. - Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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Fire News, June 2015, Page 59
Good Stop in East Northport
An East Northport couple and their four-month-old boy and girl twins, escaped unharmed after a fire broke out at their home on Cordell Place, on Mother’s Day, May 10, 2015. The East Northport Fire Department responded and found the attached garage of the single-family home engulfed in flames. Propane tanks outside ignited and fueled the fire, which then spread to the kitchen and living room where firefighters were able to stop the blaze. Over 50 firefighters using seven trucks responded under the command of Chief
Wayne Kaifler, Jr., with operations handled by First Assistant Chief Dan Heffernan. Mutual aid came from Commack and Kings Park. East Northport Rescue Squad had three ambulances and paramedic unit on the scene for EMS support. Northport and Commack Ambulance provided standby coverage. The Suffolk Police Arson Squad and Huntington Fire Marshal were investigating. - Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
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Hot One in Hempstead
The Hempstead Fire Department responded to a backyard shed fire on April 11, 2015. Smoke from the Parsons Drive blaze could be seen for miles but the fire was quickly extinguished. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Lengthy Job in East Meadow On April 15, 2015, the East Meadow Fire Department was alerted for a brush fire on Bright Avenue and Post Street. Arriving units found a fully involved detached garage and several sheds well involved with exposure problems on all sides. Mutual aid was called from several departments. Chief of the Department Jim Kane was in charge of the lengthy operation. - Fire News photos by Kevin Imm
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EMS ACROSS THE ISLAND
Northport Delivery On April 18, 2015, at 0335, the Rescue Squad of the Northport Volunteer Fire Department responded to an emergency ambulance call for a patient in active labor on Stanton Street. First on scene and in command was Chief Joseph Pansini, assisted by Northport Village Police Officers Sergeant Endee, and POs Cerar and Kerekes. Within a few minutes Chief Pansini, assisted by the police officers, delivered a healthy baby girl. Several moments later Ambulance 2-9-5 was on scene with emergency medical technicians Jeanne Vadasz, Katherine Wright, Robert Varese, Jordan Descovich and driver John Mcdonough who cared for the mother and child and transported both to Huntington Hospital labor and delivery unit. All are doing well. - Fire News photos by John Mancino
Fumes in Deer Park High School Recently, Deer Park High School was evacuated due to fumes in the building. The Deer Park Fire Department was called and responded and set up fans to disperse the fumes. The evacuated students were put on school buses to keep them warm. No illnesses or injuries were report. - Fire News photos by BTFirePhoto.com
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Fatality in Manhasset MVA
On April 9, 2015, Manhasset-Lakeville Fire Department responded ple persons injured. The victim was freed from the vehicle and, with to Northern Boulevard and Norgate Road in Manhasset for a four others, was transported to North Shore University Hospital reported MVA with overturn and entrapment. Units arrived and where the extricated person later died. - Fire News photo by Kirk Candan confirmed a three-car accident with one person trapped and multi-
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Fire News, June 2015, Page 67
Ped. Hit in Deer Park Recently, in Deer Park, a 17-year-old girl was struck by an SUV on Long Island Avenue in front of the Our Lady of The Rosary Knights of Columbus building. She was rushed to Good Samaritan Hospital in West Islip by Deer Park Rescue. The girl struck was walking with another girl who was also transported, as was the driver of the SUV. - Fire News photo by BTFirePhoto.com
Car into House in Ronkonkoma On April 26, 2015, the Ronkonkoma Fire Department was activated for an MVA with a reported car into house on Hudson Avenue. Unit 524-82 was the first to arrive, advising dispatch that the driver was out of the car. The crew of Rescue 8 secured the vehicle. The driver of the vehicle refused any medical attention. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
WSP/SSP MVA Near midnight on April 22, 2015, the Wantagh Fire Department responded to the southbound Wantagh Parkway exit ramp to the westbound Southern State Parkway for a single-car MVA with reported entrapment and possible ejection. Units arrive to find a car crashed into the sand barrel barriers off the roadway with two of the three occupants trapped. Nassau County Emergency Service Officers extricated the two trapped people in about 10 minutes and the third person was found walking a short distance away. Engine 694, Heavy Rescue 6914, Ambulances 6918, 6919 and Fire Police 6910 responded under command of Chief of Department Bloomfield, as did multiple police ambulances. All three passengers were taken to Nassau University Medical Center. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
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Changing Culture As a safety officer we don’t learn much about culture. In fact, most of our time in the fire service we hardly discuss culture. Anybody remember the last time they attended a class on culture? However, culture is what I have found to be the most important subject to the safety officer who is trying to make a department safer. Different countries have different cultures, different traditions, education, practices, legends, upbringing, folklore, breeding, ways of life, etc. You can call it what you like, but culture is what makes civilization. In China, there are cultural and linguistic variations in different regions, but for such a large country the culture is relatively uniform. However, fifty-five minority groups inhabit the more remote regions of the country and have their own unique cultures, languages and customs. Now, imagine you are given the job of changing their culture so things can improve. Where would you start? Would you go to the individuals? Or leaders? Would you call a meeting of everyone? How about sending out letters or calling everyone. Sound like a difficult job? It would be. Your fire department has a safety culture. It developed from traditions handed down from generation to generation. It came from various people over the years. Who has the dirtiest gear?
Who has a melted helmet shield and can take the word about safety. We all want everyone to go most heat? If your department has not had a line home. As Knute Rockne, the legendary Notre of duty death or a serious injury, trying to make Dame football coach once said, “One man practicing sportsmanship is far better than a hundred teaching it.” According to Dodson (2007), he says, “The following indicators should be followed: · Crews or company members are watching not only themselves, but also their team members. · Work areas are neat and organized. · Drivers are calm, consistent, and attentive. them safer becomes a monumental task, because · Observations are openly shared.” they believe they are doing things safely. But we Changing your department’s attitude is a still see them risking their lives climbing on roofs to vertical ventilate on a building where slow job. Well, the safety officers are the agents there is only property to save and it is heavily of change. Members have to agree with you and involved and burning for quite a while. If you you do not have the authority to force things on get a chance read the story about “Don’t Spray them. Be patient and never give up. As Chief the Apes,”at management.about.com/cs/gen- Billy Hayes of Columbia Southern said at the New York State Fire and Life Safety Educators eralmanagement/a/SprayApes1999.htm. When there is a traumatic injury or death in a conference in May 2015, “we’re not trying to department, members find themselves looking become a softer fire service, we are trying to for a more healthy safety attitude. Many depart- become a smarter fire service.” ments look to change things so that the cause of the incident is not repeated. According to the Ex-Chief Jeff Bailes, President final report of the Southwest Supermarket Fire Brookhaven Town Safety available at www.ci.phoenix.az.us/fire/report/ Officers Assoc., Inc. .pdf, many changes were made to procedures, 631-495-6418 training, and attitudes. www.btsoa.org It is important that we continue to spread the
“...trying to make them safer becomes a monumental task, because they believe they are doing things safely.”
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Fire News, June 2015, Page 69
Drunk Driver Rams House and Flees in Centerport The Centerport Fire Department responded to a crash after a vehicle slammed into a house on Prospect Road and the driver fled the scene on April 28, 2015. Firefighters arrived to find the front right corner of the house destroyed with debris strewn about, and a ruptured natural gas line and water pipe. The deck of an adjacent house was also damaged, as were trees, shrubbery and fences. Centerport firefighters were able to shut off the gas and water lines, and ventilated the gas fumes from the home. About 25 firefighters and EMS personnel were on the scene under the command of Chief Brian Mark and Assistant Chiefs Tom Boyd and Rich Miltner. The residents were not home at the time of the crash, and no injuries were reported. The driver was later arrested at his home by Suffolk Police and charged with DWI and leaving the scene of an accident with property damage. - Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
Truck Breaks in Melville On May 6, 2015, the Melville Fire Department was notified of a truck overturn at the Crestwood Country Day School at Round Swamp Road. The driver was attempting to position the truck when it broke and spilled its load. The driver was helped out of his cab by other workers on the scene, and sustained minor injuries. It seems that part of the truck was severely rusted, which may have caused the accident. The driver was transported to Huntington Hospital. - Fire News photo by Tom Pesce
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Melville Handles NSP Crash The Melville Fire Department was dispatched to a crash on the Northern State Parkway between the Round Swamp Road and Route 110 exits on May 7, 2015. The crash caused an SUV traveling eastbound to flip over the center divider onto the westbound side. Melville firefighters cut off the roof and removed the driver, who was transported to the Nassau University Medical Center with non-life threatening injures by the Melville Rescue Squad. - Fire News story by Steve Silverman, photo by Jim Milazzo
Car into Home in St. James The Smithtown Fire Department and Suffolk Police responded to a car that crashed into a home on Glenrich Drive South in Saint James on May 9, 2015. A family of three was in a mini van when it apparently lost control, striking the residence, causing substantial damage to the vehicle and home. The male driver along with his wife and two-year-old son were injured. Nobody in the home was injured. Police were investigating the cause and the Smithtown building Department was called to the scene to ensure the integrity of the structure. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
1 Driver, 5 Hit-and-Runs in Seaford
On April 20, 2015, the Seaford Fire Department under the command of Chief Bob Podesta responded to multiple vehicle accidents on Jerusalem Avenue. Also responding were the Nassau County Police, multiple NCPD Ambulances and two NCPD Emergency Services vehicles. A total of four cars were involved. According to police, a man traveling eastbound on Jerusalem, was involved in five auto accidents with other moving vehicles. The accidents began in the vicinity of Allen Drive and continued eastbound on Jerusalem Avenue until Mell Gate. After striking the five vehicles, the man, who continued on, left the roadway, struck a Post Office mail box,
and proceeded to destroy approximately 100 feet of wooden fencing. After continuing eastbound, he then struck a wooden power pole. His vehicle finally came to stop a short distance later. During the accidents there were two reported injuries, both of whom were occupants of the same vehicle and were transported to an area hospital. A 28-year-old male driver sustained a collapsed lung, lacerated spleen and a fractured pelvis. He was admitted to the surgical intensive care unit. His 24-year-old female passenger sustained a contusion to her forehead. She was treated and released. - Fire News photo by Jack Healy
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Hooks, Hose & Heavy Rescue Shiny New Rides Island Park and Garden City have ordered a Ferrara 107-foot rearmount aerial and twin pumpers respectively while Smeal will be producing a 100-foot rear mount aerial for Wantagh. Chivvis is currently completing rigs for Nissequogue (2.5 ton brush/high water evac), Hampton Bays (fiveton brush) and Quogue (five-ton brush). Pierce is completing West Babylon’s new Velocity heavy rescue while Kings Park’s Aerialscope is being re-mounted on a new cab/chassis as Ambassador series engine similar to that used Sayville, North Patchogue and North Babylon as Engine 51 on the TV show Emergency!). While most apparatus have been painted have done in recent years. red, red/white and the increasing popular red/black in recent years, new varied Colors An emerging trend with Long Island fire paint/striping schemes are being seen with apparatus is the return of varied color schemes recent deliveries. Lynbrook has received a reminiscent of the 1970s when various colors gold-over-red Ferrara engine while Garden were experimented with. In 1974, Dr. Stephen City has received a Ferrara heavy rescue paintSoloman, an upstate New York optometrist ed red with black striping and accents giving it (and volunteer firefighter), presented his view- an almost covert appearance. Sea Cliff and point that the color red (the traditional color of Islip Terrace operate taupe-over-red American fire apparatus since the early 1900s) was less LaFrance engines (a color scheme ALF introvisible to the eye than lime-yellow or lime- duced during one of their many reincarnations) green. Numerous departments across the coun- while Roslyn Highlands operates twin silvertry including major cities such as Boston (and over-red Seagrave Concorde series aerial later the FDNY) experimented with various quints. An interesting note regarding the effectivecolor schemes to determine their effectiveness. Long Island FDs, long known for custom appa- ness of high visibility colors is that virtually all ratus experimented with various color schemes departments (both on Long Island and in major including White, Lime Yellow, Cream and cities) which experimented with these colors even Blue (Freeport ran a Ward LaFrance ultimately returned to red paint schemes. The
FDNY’s study in 1980 involving 10 pumpers painted lime green found an increase in traffic accidents due to motorists not recognizing the vehicle as a fire truck!! Oldies But Goodies On a final note, the Long Island Antique Fire Apparatus Association will be hosting the first ever antique fire apparatus group photo shoot at Heckscher State Park on Sunday, June 14, 2015, from 0900-1300. All Long Island departments, NYC vollies and private owners have been invited to display their antique apparatus (1800s-1980s, retired or active service). All are welcome to enjoy a day of brotherhood and we encourage everyone to participate in this “epic event” in Long Island fire service history!! Complete details are on Facebook at Long Island Fire Apparatus Photo Shoot Tom Rinelli is the webmaster/photographer for unyquefiretrucks.com, a popular website showcasing unique apparatus from across the Northeast (and beyond). He is a 29 year veteran volunteer of the Long Island Fire & EMS brotherhood. In addition, Tom is also known to many in the fire service through his "real job" as a fire equipment distributor (Fire Rescue Outfitters). He can be reached for comments, updates and invitations to photograph apparatus at firescueguy@me.com.
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MVA in N. Amityville For the second time in 12 hours on April 16, 2015, the North Amityville Fire Company responded to an MVA with reported entrapment. The two-car collision occurred at Bethpage Road and Howard Avenue. All chiefs along with Heavy Rescue 1-7-5 and Ambulances 1-7-8 and 1-7-22 responded. The crew from 1-7-5 put spreaders and cutters into operation to remove the driver’s door of one car. The two drivers were injured and both taken to Good Samaritan Hospital. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Ronkonkoma MVA Late on April 19, 2015, the Ronkonkoma Fire Department was activated for an MVA with reported entrapment on the westbound Long Island Expressway, just west of exit 60. Suffolk County Police Emergency Service units were first to arrive on the scene and found a car, which had smashed into the divider in the HOV lane. SCPD ES removed the driver’s door, giving fire and EMS personnel easy access to the driver. The driver was transported to Stony Brook University Hospital for her injuries. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
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4 Injured in Selden MVA On April 20, 2015, the Selden Fire Department was activated for an MVA with reported overturn at the intersection of Route 25 and Boyle Road. Upon arrival, commanding chief Michael Matteo 5-25-30 was met with a four-car MVA, and found all occupants self extricated. Chief Matteo requested three ambulances to the scene for injured people. The crew of Rescue 13 quickly arrived to secure two of the vehicles. Four people, including a mother and child, were transported to Stony Brook University Hospital. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
MVA in Brookville The Old Brookville Police and Jericho Fire Department responded to an accident involving an overturned vehicle in front of Saint Paul the Apostle Church on Cedar Swamp Road in Brookville on April 20, 2015. Two vehicles had collided as one attempted a turn near the church entrance and broadsided the other. Drivers were transported in Nassau County Police ambulances to North Shore Hospital in Syosset for various injuries. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
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Car Into House in Mt. Sinai On March 25, 2015, the Mount Sinai Fire Department was called to Osborne Avenue after an SUV backed down a driveway and slammed into a house across the street. The driver was checked out for injuries by Port Jefferson VAC and released to Suffolk Police who arrested her on numerous charges. - Fire News photo by AJ Ryan
MVA on the WSP Wantagh Fire Department Medics from Rescue 1 removed an injured man to an awaiting ambulance, after the car struck a divider on the Wantagh State Parkway on April 6, 2015. The driver, along with a female passenger, were transported by Wantagh Rescue 1 and a Nassau County Police ambulance. - Fire News photo by Harry Loud
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Car vs. House in Holbrook On March 24, 2015, the Holbrook Fire Department was activated for an MVA of a car into a house. Unit 3-15-81 was first on scene and reported the car jumped the curb and hit the bushes and front window. The driver was not injured. Islip Town was requested to check the building. - Fire New photo by David Rubin
Good Place to Crash The Deer Park Fire Department was alerted on April 13, 2015, for an MVA with a car into a building at Best Way Auto Collision on Deer Park Avenue. The driver of the car went out of control, off the road, and through a parking lot and fence, before crashing into the office part of the business. Crews checked the building and secured the vehicle, which was removed by the business owner with a forklift. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
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Fatality, Fire in Baldwin MVA Early on April 12, 2015, the Baldwin Fire Department was dispatched to Kings Parkway and Grand Avenue for an MVA with overturn and reported car fire. Nassau County Police were on the scene and confirmed the fire. First arriving units encountered a single-car into the building and a working fire that extended into the cockloft. Engine 203 stretched two lines, one to the car and the other into the building. The crew from Ladder 207 vented and searched the building. The fire in the building was quickly extinguished as was the car fire. The driver of the car was pronounced dead at the scene. The Hempstead Fire Department was requested to the scene for a FAST unit. Chief of Department Bendel was in charge and the cause of the accident was investigated by Nassau County Police. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
2-Car MVA in Ronkonkoma On April 28, 2015, the Ronkonkoma Fire Department was called to a two-car MVA on the Long Island Expressway, east of exit 60. Firefighters from Rescue took off multiple doors and the roof to safely extricate the driver, who was taken to a local hospital with unknown injuries. - Fire News photo by Cameron Wilken
Uniondale MVA On April 16, 2015, a small sedan lost control and overturned on a quiet Uniondale Street. There were no serious injuries. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Montauk Holds Fundraiser On April 25, 2015, the Montauk Fire Department hosted a pasta dinner to benefit Henry O. Sjoman of Montauk. Henry is suffering from a traumatic brain injury, which he sustained in a head-on ATV accident in December 2014. Friends and family gathered at the MFD to support Henry, and to help him pay his astronomical medical bills. A Henry Sjoman Fund has been established on gofundme.com, for those who would like to make a donation. - Fire News photos by Richard Lewin
Dix Hills Fire Dept. Installs 2015 Officers
The Dix Hills Fire Department recently held their annual inspection and installation of officers at headquarters. The following officers were installed for 2015: Department Officers: Chief Robert Fling, First Assistant Chief Thomas Napolitano, Second Assistant Chief Alan Berkowitz, Third Assistant Chief Joseph Williamson, Secretary Hillary Bogi, Treasurer Todd Cohen, Assistant Treasurer Hillary Bogi, Sergeant-at-Arms Fred Reithel.
Company One: Captain Karl Krage, First Lieutenant John Vierling, Second Lieutenant Scott DiPino, Secretary Terence Vierling, Treasurer Dave Critelli, Sergeant-at-Arms Chris Steed. Company Two: Captain Brett Tepe, First Lieutenant Kris Tillis, Second Lieutenant Howard Kaplan, Secretary Liz Mene, Treasurer Marc Ligator, Sergeant-at-Arms Fred Reithel. Company Three: Captain Tony deCesare,
First Lieutenant Matthew Montag, Secretary John Marshall, Treasurer John Brower, Sergeant-at-Arms Thomas McClane. Rescue Squad: Captain Matthew Mattone, Company One Lieutenant Tracy Berny, Company Two Lieutenant Krista Marzano, Company Three Lieutenant Jessica Mattes, Treasurer John Brower. Fire Police: Captain Thomas Smyth, Lieutenant Thomas McClane. - Fire News photos by Steve Silverman
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BTFDOA Installation On April 26, 2015, the Brookhaven Town Fire Districts Officers Association held their annual meeting and brunch. Congratulations to President William Kelly, First Vice President Charles Mineo, Second Vice President Tim Deveny, Sergeant-at-Arms Dave Sponton, Secretary/Treasurer Charles Freeman, Jr., and Chaplain Edwin Brooks as they lead the association in 2015. Also honored at the brunch was Commissioner Harold Tranchon, Jr., of the Port Jefferson Fire District for his 30 years of service to the district and Carol Davidson of the Selden Fire District. -Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
Seaford Chiefs Installed The Seaford Fire Department installed their new Assistant Chiefs at a recent ceremony. (Left to right): Keith Kern with his wife by his side was installed as 1st Assistant Chief and Michael Bellissimo with his wife by his side was installed as 2nd Assistant Chief. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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3-Times a Charm: Chief Robert Podesta
Robert Podesta with his family by his side was installed as the Chief of the Seaford Fire Department at a recent ceremony. Podesta joined the Seaford Fire Department on September 3, 1979, after serving four years in the Seaford Fire Department Junior’s Program. In April 1987, Robert became one of the youngest members in the department’s history to be elected to 2nd Assistant Chief. In April 1991, Robert was sworn in as
Chief of the Department. After finishing his term as Chief, Robert became appointed Fire Commissioner in 1994, filling a vacant term for two years. Then in 1996 he was elected to his own five-year term as Commissioner. Robert was also a member of the Seaford Hook Ladder & Engine Co. Board during this period. In 2005, Robert made the decision to enter back into the ranks as an officer. In 2011 he became the first member of the Seaford Fire
Department to be elected to two separate terms as Chief of the Department. In 2013 Bob took a well-deserved year off and in 2014 returned to the Chief Office as 1st Assistant Chief. With his latest appointment, Podesta is now the only member in the history of Seaford Fire Department to hold the office of Chief of the Department three separate terms. - Fire News photos by Kevin Imm, story courtesy of the SFD
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Westbury Chiefs Installed
At the Westbury Fire Department’s instllation ceremony on May 2, 2015, (left, left to right): John Bartunek was installed as the 1st Assistant Chief and Kenneth Gass, Jr., was installed as 2nd Assistant Chief, and (right): Douglas Ingram was installed as the Chief of the Department. - Fire News photos by Kevin Imm
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Valley Stream Installation
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(Above): At a ceremony on May 1, 2015, Mayor of Valley Stream Edwin A. Fare installed the 2015 line officers of the Valley Stream Fire Department. (Left): Jason Croak was installed as 2nd Assistant Chief by his father, exChief William Croak, Sr., (Below, left): James Ervolino was installed as the 1st Assistant Chief. (Below, right): Charles A. Brocher was installed as the 95th Chief of the Valley Stream Fire Department. - Fire News photos by Kevin Imm
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Firehouse Kitchen While planning the fourth season of Firehouse Kitchen, I wanted to do something “cool” for the opening show. I remembered an e-mail I received, a short time ago, from the Connecticut State Fire Academy, in which they asked if we would like to come and film a show with their probationary firefighters. Apparently, Firefighter Ray and Firehouse Kitchen are a big hit amongst this group of soon-to-be firefighters. They had found the show on foodytv.com and had become avid viewers. Not wanting to let anyone down, of course Firefighter Ray obliged and we went to film an episode. I entered the main training building and found Captain Bill DeFord, one of the lead training officers. He was conducting a mask confidence drill, which consists of suiting up in full firefighter gear, including bunker gear and SCBA, and entering a maze of challenges based on escaping different scenarios one may have to face during a fire. This course was one of the hardest I have seen and coming from a retired New York City fireman stationed in Jamaica, Queens, that’s saying a lot. Back to the main reason why we are here, cooking! Captain Bill yelled, “Recruits, time for the meal!” Within 10 minutes, there were eight recruits in the kitchen prepping, cleaning, sautéing and cooking. On the menu for lunch was homemade minestrone soup, grilled chicken sandwich, an earthy, crunchy salad, and a yogurt parfait. After some bantering and yelling in the kitchen, Captain Bill instructed the recruits to go into the mess hall to eat. I said, “This isn’t lunch (referring to the food we just prepared),” and was told it was the prep for dinner. Three more hours of training was on the schedule. So back to the training field we headed. Before I knew it, Captain Bill came to me and said he was almost done with the cooking! “Bill, this is a cooking show! I need to film them cooking!” Luckily, my cameraman had caught the cooking action on tape. The meal was wonderful, and followed Captain Bill’s motto: if one is filled with good fuel, one will fight hard in a fire. What is cool about the Connecticut State Fire Academy is that it’s a sleep away program (recruits return home Friday through Sunday). The camaraderie I witnessed amongst these young firefighters reminded me a lot of how I felt about my experiences in the FDNY. After witnessing the training these recruits are put through, I would feel confident fighting a fire with them and knowing they had my back. Hats off to the “Frozen 46.” That’s what they nicknamed themselves due to the frigid winter we had this year. To find out more about Firehouse Kitchen or how to become a sponsor, visit firehousekitchenshow.com. Also, attention firefighters, I am looking for new fire cooks for the next season of Firehouse Kitchen. E-mail me at ray@firehousekitchenshow.com or call 631-514-5859.
By Ray Cooney
FRESH VEGGIE MINESTONE SOUP 1 28-oz. can of crushed tomatoes 4 cans of legumes (black beans, kidney bean, pinto bean, etc.) 1 bunch celery hearts , chopped 1 bag of baby carrots, chopped 5 cloves of garlic, crushed or minced 3 cups of chopped vegetables of choice 4 B of olive oil 6 cups of water 4-6 cups of homemade chicken or vegetable stock 1-2 cups of small variety pasta Pepper, oregano, basi and parsley to taste Parmesan Cheese for garnishing finished soup Sautee carrots, onions, celery, garlic and chopped vegetables in olive oil to soften. Add sautéed vegetables and legumes to stock, water and crushed tomatoes. Sprinkle herbs and spices in. Simmer for three hours. Bring to a boil a half-hour before serving and add pasta to soften. Serve with freshly grated Parmesan sprinkled on top.
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MOTLEY CREWS OF THE MONTH
Riders of Fire MC members pose at their April 2015 meeting. -Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
Selden Fire Police at a recent call. - Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
St. James Fire Department at a recent call. - Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
Selden Firefighters from Truck 1 at a recent MVA. - Fire News photo by AJ Ryan
Holtsville firefighters at the Suffolk County Fire Academy. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Members of the Setauket Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Riverhead Fire Department at the Riverhead Training Center. - Fire News photo by Jim Dunn
Members of the Setauket Fire Department at Easter morning Mass on West Meadow Beach. - Fire News photo by Robert O'Rourk
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Miller Place Installation The Miller Place Fire Department held its 63rd annual installation dinner on March 28, 2015, at Majestic Gardens in Rocky Point. The Chief officers for 2015 are Matt Bruemmer, 3rd Assistant Chief; Josh Hagermann, Chief of Department; Rich Schlude, 1st Assistant Chief; Rick Batchelder, 2nd Assistant Chief - Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
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SCFRES Holds Active Shooter Class
On May 7, 2015, Suffolk County FireRescue and Emergency Services Commissioner Joe Williams, Suffolk County Police Department Chief Stu Cameron and Suffolk County EMS Director Robert Delagi held an awareness class for Suffolk County Fire Coordinators. The Active Shooter class is a result of the combined efforts of the SCPD, the SCEMS Division and SC FRES and focuses on the public safety response to the active shooter scenario. The goal is to educate first responders on how the police respond to neu-
tralize the threat as a first priority, and provide point-of-injury care and initial triage in the austere environment, typically deemed unsafe for EMS providers. The class then addressed tactical combat care, utilizing strategies learned from the military, summarized in the latest acronym — THREAT — which represents the following steps: threat suppression; hemorrhage control; rapid extraction to safety; assessment by medical professionals; and transport to definitive care. The focus included review of START Triage, bleeding control with
tourniquets/hemostatic dressings; and managing patients with penetrating trunk trauma using chest seals and basic airway management. The final module discussed the importance of unified command, activation of the county MCI plan, and the introduction of modified approach to hazardous scenes that includes the use of a Casualty Collection Point (CCP) which is the warm zone transition area where law enforcement-to-EMS interface occurs. -Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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Fire News, June 2015, Page 93
Huntington Community First Aid Squad Honored
Recently, the Huntington Community First Aid Squad volunteers were honored on for providing rapid assistance to a wounded Suffolk County Police Officer in March. Officer Mark Collins was seriously injured after being shot twice during a traffic stop in Huntington Station on the night of March 11, 2015. HCFAS volunteers quickly provided life-saving assistance to Collins, who was able to survive his wounds. On hand to say thank you to HCFAS
were friends in government, Commissioner Joe Williams of Suffolk County Fire Rescue and Emergency Service, Suffolk County EMS Director Robert Delagi and Suffolk County Police Department Chief James Burke. Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone presented the squad with a proclamation and cited the important services HCFAS offers to the Huntington-area community. - Fire News photos by Ron Monteleone
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Farmingville Officer of the Year
Congratulations to Lieutenant Rich Piccirello of the Farmingville Fire Department. Lt. Piccirello was recognized for his outstanding performance and role as an officer during the year of 2014. Congratulations Lt. Piccirello! - Fire News photo by Amanda Coffey
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Chief’s Families Unite
Angela Schuman, the daughter of Waterway Long Island’s (and Wantagh ex-Chief) Steve Schuman was recently engaged to Chris James, son of East Farmingdale ex-Chief Greg James. - Fire News photo courtesy of Steve Schuman
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K9’s Familiarize with SCPD Aviation
Recently, the Suffolk County Fire Marshal’s Accelerant Detection K9 Unit drilled with the Suffolk County Police Department Aviation Unit to familiarize Suffolk County K9’s Jul and Tiana with flying in the police helicopters. At a moment’s notice, the dogs and their handlers, Brett Martinez and Don Lynch, could be called to
assist with fire investigations anywhere in the country. The need to be secure and familiar with each other is not something that should be addressed during an incident. Both pilots and handlers were confident of that the K9s will handle any future deployment well. -Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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Fire News, June 2015, Page 97
Farrell Fund Gets Stump Jumper for W. Babylon
LI Blood Services Award
Erin Brown, National Coordinator of The Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund with volunteer Shawn Eckert presented the West Babylon Fire Department with a stump jumper on April 28, 2015. The stump jumper was once operated by the Selden Fire Department. Having received a new converted brush truck, Selden passed the truck, via the fund, onto West Babylon. - Fire News photo courtesy of the Terry Farrell Fund
On May 7, 2015, the Long Island Blood Services held its annual awards luncheon at the Crest Hollow Club. The Massapequa Fire Department was given a Silver Award for the 259 blood donations made in 2014. Receiving the award (left to right): ex-Chief Tom Pendergast, LI Blood Services Representative Naomi Cunningham and ex-Captain Ed Tuffy. - Fire News photo courtesy of Ed Tuffy
South Fork Fire Police Dinner
On April 21, 2015, the Montauk Fire Department and Chief Joseph P. Lenahan hosted the South Fork Fire Police Dinner. The SFFP Members are from Eastport to Montauk. Guests were welcomed by the Captain of MFD’s Company No. 6 (and former East Hampton Chief of Police) Ed Ecker, Jr., and Donna Bennett (President of the
South Fork Fire Police). The guest speaker was Taylor Vecsey (Bridgehampton Volunteer EMT and Writer for the East Hampton Star), who spoke of the responsibilities of the fire police as liaisons with the press. - Fire News photo by Richard Lewin
Smithtown’s Explorer Fundraiser The Smithtown Fire Department Explorer Post 4-2-0 hosted a fundraiser car wash on April 25, 2015, in support of the Smithtown Children’s Foundation. Proceeds went to benefit the Firefighter Sean Cook Scholarship Fund. Sean was an Explorer member and honorary member of the department who fought a courageous battle with cancer. Great weather was able to make the event a huge success. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
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FRED Seminar in Bethpage Nassau County presented a first responder education day (FRED) seminar at the Morrelly Conference Center in Bethpage Sunday April 19, 2015. Various speakers held lectures throughout the day on fire, police and EMS topics. Speakers at the FRED event (left to right): Kevin O’Hara (MS, EMT P, NYSCIC), Bruce Cohn (VP Risk Management and Legal Affairs, Winthrop Hospital), Elizabeth Gross-Cohn (PHD, RN), Lee Ielpi (FDNY ret., President, Tribute WTC), Gary Ferrucci (PC, former-Chief Valley Stream Fire Department). - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
Make-A-Wish Sends Lots of Love to the Pastore Family The Make-A-Wish Foundation along with the Huntington Manor, Cold Spring Harbor, and the New York City fire departments, joined together on May 3, 2015, for a special visit to the Pastore family to see 14-year-old Marissa who was recently diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. The event featured many real-life Disney and cartoon characters as well as the FDNY 150th Anniversary ladder truck. Marissa’s loving parents, Domenick (‘Dimmy’) and Risa, are both members of the Huntington Manor Fire Department, where Dimmy is an ex-Chief. Dimmy is also a member of the FDNY, and Risa is an Emergency Department nurse at Huntington Hospital. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Pastore family during this very difficult time. - Fire News story by Steve Silverman; photos by Jim Felton
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Up Close & Personal
Commissioner Van Johnson of the Coram Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
Central Islip Chief Safety Officer Ken Ruddick (past-Captain of CIFD Eng. Co. #2). - Fire News photo by Charles A. Murphy, CIFD Photo Unit
Firefighter Adam Accardi of Westbury’s Hook and Ladder Company at a fire in East Meadow on April 15, 2015. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
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Fire News, June 2015, Page 101
Up Close & Personal Chief Dave Smith of the Farmingville Fire Department and sons Firefighters Matthew (left) and Brian Smith. - Fire News photo by Amanda Coffey
Kenneth Sperber, who just turned three, checking out the jump seat of a Seagrave engine at Miller Place Fire Department headquarters on April 10, 2015. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
Riders of Fire MC’s newest member, Vincent Rodowicz. Vincent is a Yaphank fireman and is ex-Captain of Co. 2 and EMT. (Left to right): President Joey Nuccio, Vincent and Vice President Greg Carter. - Fire News photo by Ron Moneleone
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Nassau County FC Installation The Nassau County Fire Commission held its annual installation on May 13, 2015 at Carle Place Fire Department. At the meeting all nine battalion chairmen met to elect the Chairman, Vice-Chairman and Secretary of the Fire Commission for 20152016. Elected Chairman, James Mezey, Jr., 9th Battalion; Vice-Chairman Denis J. Collins, 2nd Battalion; Secretary, John M. Fabian, 6th Battalion. - Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
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Northport Vols Continue Training
The members of the Northport Volunteer Fire Department under the command of Chief Joseph Pansini attended a training class at the Suffolk County Fire Service Academy in Yaphank. The scenarios simulated a two-story house in the middle of the night with victims trapped inside. Three evolutions took place and a total of eight fires were extinguished. After each scenario, firefighters met with a Suffolk County instructor for an educational debriefing. - Fire News photos by John Mancino
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Ridge Installation
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On March 21, 2015, the Ridge Fire Department held their 74th Installation Dinner at the Majestic Gardens in Rocky Point. Congratulations to Stan Klein for EMS High Point Award and Overall High Points, Charles Hepner for Fire High Point Award, James Demeo for The William Kaspereit Memorial Award, Kevin Corrigan for The Walter Darcy Memorial Award, Michael Tutunjian for The Richard Gianmugnai Memorial Award, Paul Callegari for The Jack Austen Memorial Award, Shaun Harris, 2nd Lt. Michael Dudley and Josh Sibbald for E.M.S. Person of The Year Award, Katherine Stasys for EMT of The Year, and Charles Hepner for Firemen of The Year. Good luck to the Chief of Departmnt Shawn T. Davis, 1st Assistant Chief Michael Gianmugnai and 2nd Assistant Chief Louis Kaiser. - Fire News photos by Ron Montelone
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Fire News, June 2015, Page 105
Arson Awareness Week Recognizes Canine Detection Teams
Every year, the U.S. Fire Administration gathers and shares information to raise awareness of arson and juvenile fire setting. This year’s National Arson Awareness Week theme is “Accelerant Detection Canines - Sniffing Out Arson.” The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), began training Accelerant Detection Canines in 1986. These dogs are trained to detect a variety of ignitable liquids that could be used to start a fire. Handlers attend a five-week training course at the ATF canine training center in Front Royal, Virginia. Suffolk County currently has two accelerant detection canines in service. Suffolk County Fire
Marshal Brett Martinez became the first Accelerant Detection Canine (ATC) handler in Suffolk County. He is currently the longest serving ATF-certified canine handler for the ATC program, first becoming a handler in 1991. As part of the training, the canine teams must commit to an agreement in which the ATF can bring them where needed as part of the National Response Team. Fire Marshal Martinez and his canines Ember, Cinder and currently Jul, have worked on various high profile cases and have assisted the ATF with investigations in New York City, Reno, Nevada, and Rhode Island. Most recently, Suffolk County Fire Marshal Don Lynch and his canine Tiana were deployed with the ATF to
Schenectady, to assist in the investigation of a fire resulting in multiple fatalities. The dogs transform from a loving pet to an arson detection tool as soon as the handler puts on the food/reward pouch. The K-9 can cover an entire fire scene in about 30 minutes. The Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind in Smithtown provided the test dog for determination as to the success of the program. Fire Marshal Brett Martinez also serves as a dedicated volunteer firefighter with the Hauppauge Fire Department since 1983, where he is a former Captain of Engine Company 4 and the Truck Company. - Fire News story by Steve Silverman
Suffolk USAR Drill The Suffolk County Urban Search and Rescue Team (USAR) conducted a live training exercise at the Vanderbilt Museum property in Centerport on the weekend of April 11-12, 2015. The drill served as a valuable training experience and simulated the aftermath of a severe weather event and the impact on a number of victims. The Suffolk County USAR Team, working in conjunction with the Centerport Fire Department and Northport Fire Department, used chainsaws, rope rescue, water rescue and other tools for victim removal operations during the two-day drill scenario of the rescue of victims during a wedding reception near the Planetarium building. About 75 firefighters participated in the drill, which also included the usage of the Centerport and Northport rescue boats to evacuate victims. - Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
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Bohemia Installation
On March 14, 2015, the Bohemia Fire Department installed Michael Stankunis as Chief of Department. Chief Stankunis had his daughters, Lauren and Kaitlyn, at his side as he was sworn in by his cousin Billy, who is a Wantagh firefighter. Sterling Haynes and Brian O’Neill were sworn in as his 1st and 2nd Assistant Chiefs. The Department recognized, Captain Susan Orlando for 25 years of service, ex-Chief Ed Vinogroski for 30 years of service, ex-Chief Jeff Behounek for 35 years of service, Chaplain Harry Wilzman for 40 years of service, and Bill Swanda for 45 years of service and ex-
Chief Richard Andersen for his service to the Department and to the community. Walter Lenz was chosen as Probie of the Year, Lt. Anthony DiGiralamo was chosen as Officer of the Year and Chief Stankunis was chosen as Firefighter of the Year. The Department made Tommy O’Grady an honorary member of the department for assisting it with its spaghetti fundraiser. His business, Tuscany Gourmet Market, provided the food for the fundraiser, where he was able to feed over 800 people in a three-hour time period. The Installation Dinner was held at The Spa at the Eastwind.
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Fire News, June 2015, Page 107
Unsung Heroes The unsung heroes of the fire service and, in this case, the Ladies Auxiliary of the Levittown Fire Department man a refreshment table at a recent Tallow Lane fire. - Fire News photo by Harry Loud
Farmingville Awards The Farmingville Fire Department hosted their annual installation dinner on April 18, 2015, at Villa Lombardi’s. Ex-Chief Ralph Gloria was recognized for his outstanding performances as chief. Awards were also given out to ex-Chief Edward Stewart, Jr.; ex-Chief Ronald Magagna; and exChief Michael Stewart. Rookie of the Year 2014 was awarded to Taylor Kern for her outstanding performances. Captain Dominic Russo and Lieutenant Daniel Coffey received the Medal of Valor Award for 2014 which is the highest award they can receive as firefighters. The award was for an incident in which they saved a woman in a flooded basement who nearly drowned on August 13, 2014. Congratulations to all! - Fire News photo by Amanda Coffey
FDNY Celebrates Their 150th with Patriotic Themed Ferrara Truck
To help celebrate 150 years of service, the FDNY selected Ferrara Fire Apparatus to decorate one of their Ferrara aerial ladders to use as a showpiece throughout 2015. The truck was taken out of service in New York City and brought to the Ferrara factory where it was refurbished, including getting a new paint job and an elegant graphics package. Deviating from the normal red-and-white cab and standard FDNY graphics, this special edition truck features a beautiful metallic silver cab top, silver leaf stripping and lettering, and a blue silhouette with white stars of the New York City skyline, representing the five boroughs.
“It is an honor and a privilege to present one of our aerial ladders as the center piece to commemorate FDNY’s 150th anniversary,” said President/CEO Chris Ferrara. FDNY has recently placed an order for 12 more aerial ladders which will bring the total to 71 Ferrara ladders in service in New York City. The FDNY 100-foot aerial ladders are built on the Ferrara Ultra custom chassis with a 3CR12 stainless steel split cab and feature a heavy duty stainless steel body, a quick 4-section 100' rear mount ladder, and an 8kW hydraulic generator.
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FASNY Director McQueen Speaks to the Nassau Juniors On April 26, 2015, FASNY Director Brian McQueen spoke at one of the Nassau County Junior Firefighters Association general meetings and delivered a presentation titled “Cancer in the Fire Service, a growing epidemic.” It came from firsthand experience as Brian is a cancer survivor. He stressed key safety points to them including washing gear after calls, wearing SCBA during overhauls, visiting doctors for checkups and screenings. The day was sponsored by the Nassau County Fire Chiefs Association Education Committee. In attendance were 167 Junior/Explores from 19 different companies. To learn more, visit www.believe271.com or follow Brian on Facebook “Believe271”.
Rescue Truck Dedicated in Erickson’s Memory Engine Co. #3 of North Massapequa Fire Department dedicated its new heavy-duty rescue truck to the memory of Commissioner John Erickson who passed away last year. Replicas of the dedication plaque were given to his widow, Lucile Erickson, and son, ex-Chief Richard Erickson. (Left to right): Commissioners Michael Antonucci, Frank A. Nocerino, Nicholas T. Paolucci, Ralph Raymond, ex-Chief Richard Erickson, Mrs. Lucile Erickson, Commissioner Mark Timpano, 1st Assistant Chief Fred Ferrara and 3rd Assistant Chief James Maraldo. The ceremony took place April 12, 2015, at Station #2, the home of Erickson, who was a sitting commissioner for 30 years and ex-Captain of Friendship Engine #3. - Fire News photo by Jackson Pokress
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The Arts Support Wounded Warriors
In August 2014, Nassau County Firefighters Operation Wounded Warrior was the recipient of monies raised at an art and photography exhibit titled, “Endless Summer - Visions of Long Island,” which was hosted by LIU C.W. Post College in Brookville. Over 60 of Long Island’s most distinguished award winning artists and photographers exhibited their works for the entire month at the Hutchins Gallery on campus. The artists made a generous direct donation to NCFF-OWW plus an additional portion of any sales. During the opening night reception, NCFF-OWW Chairman Joe O’Grady of the Floral Park Fire Department received a citation from the Town of Hempstead. Also joining in was Congressmanelect Lee Zeldin of Suffolk County. - Fire News photo by Steve Grogan
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Chairman Greets Wounded Warrior/Firefighter
In November 2014, members of Nassau County Firefighters Operation Wounded Warrior were in Lynbrook to accept over 225 lap blankets from Loop of Love, an organization of senior citizens for whom Nassau firefighters distribute at Fort Bragg, Camp Lejuene and at Walter Reed Hospital in December during their annual trip to visit our wounded warriors. One of the guest speakers at the presentation was US Army First Lieutenant Steven Liguori, of Lynbrook who was wounded in Afghanistan. Lt. Liguori is a member of Tally-Ho Engine Company 3 of the Lynbrook Fire Department. Pictured: NCFF-OWW Chairman Joe O'Grady of the Floral Park Fire Department, greeting the lieutenant. - Fire News photo by Steve Grogan
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Centereach Annual Installation
On March 28, 2015, the Centereach Fire District held its annual installation of officers. Henry Borkowski was sworn in as Chief of the Department along with Robert Corley, Garrett Schor, and Max Mayzus who were sworn in as Assistant Chiefs. The district also recognized ex-Chief Derek Anderson for his service to the ommunity.
Several members were also honored with departmental awards, including Vito Graziano who received the High Point Award for responding to the most calls and Lauren Gleason who received the Chief’s Award from ex-Chief Anderson. - Fire News photos courtesy of Centereach FD
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Suffolk FRES Jeff Nirenberg Retires
Communications Supervisor Jeff Nirenberg of the Suffolk County Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services has hung up his microphone and retired after 37-1/2 years of faithful and dedicated service. Jeff was joined at a retirement celebration by family, friends and past and present coworkers from FRES that came to honor Jeff on his stellar career in the radio room as FRES 09. Jeff received several awards and honors including a proclamation from Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone presented by Deputy Commissioner John Jordan, and a beautiful plaque from his coworkers. Jeff is also a 42-year member and ex-Assistant Chief of the Melville Fire Department, where he currently serves as a safety officer. He served as a former EMT-CC with the Melville Rescue Squad for many years. Jeff’s familiar and calming voice will be missed from the airwaves at FRES. - Fire News photos by Steve Silverman
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VFIS HOLDS ANNUAL MVP CONFERENCE IN CHARLSTON, SOUTH CAROLINA VFIS recently held their annual MVP conference in Charleston, S.C. VFIS agents from all over the country attended.Hubbinette-Cowell Associates of Massapequa Park was recognized as the VFIS agent of the year. Hubbinette-Cowell is celebrating it’s 30th year of providing service to the Emergency Services throughout New York State. Pictured is Hubbinettte-Cowell President Paul Cowell receiving the award from VFIS President Troy Markel.
P.L. CUSTOM BODY AND EQUIPMENT CO., INC. (PLCB) IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE THE ADDITION OF THREE NEW DEALERS TO ITS GROWING FAMILY OF DISTRIBUTORS Arrowhead Equipment, Inc. of Queensbury, NY will be providing sales and service to emergency services providers in the central and northeastern part of New York. Colden Enterprises, Inc.,located in Tonawanda, NY, will provide sales and service to emergency services providers in the western and central part of New York. Hendrickson Fire Rescue Equipment of Islandia, NY will be providing sales and service to emergency services providers in the southeastern counties of New York and Long Island. Visit our web site http://www.plcustom.com/dealer-location-map for a list of counties covered by each dealer. Each of these dealers has extensive service capabilities and road service units. In addition to providing sales and service for both PL Custom Emergency Vehicles and Rescue 1 vehicles, these dealers can also provide remounting and specialty conversions through PLCB, as well.
Chad Newsome, National Sales Manager for PLCB, is very pleased to have Arrowhead, Colden, and Hendrickson as part of the PLCB family. “I am so pleased to have such great new partners. On behalf of all of us here in Manasquan, we wish to express our thanks to Colden Enterprises for joining our team!” P.L. Custom Body and Equipment Co., Inc. has been in business since 1946 and owned by the Smock family since 1970. The company employs 200 people at their Manasquan, NJ plant and sells through a network of 17 independent dealers covering 28 states and the District of Columbia. PL Custom Emergency Vehicle and Rescue 1 are the manufacturing divisions of the corporation and are proud to maintain a strong reputation as a customer focused designer and manufacturer of high quality ambulances and rescue vehicles. PLCB continues to grow at a consistent pace, happy to be able to add partners who share our long term vision for high quality products, outstanding customer service and smart and sustainable growth. We are small by design, family-owned and rich in heritage and tradition.
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Fire News, June 2015, Page 115
NCFC Valor Awards
On the evening of April 15, 2015, the Nassau County Fire Commission held their awards ceremony at the Firefighters Museum. Members from three departments were presented with awards for outstanding jobs and valor at fires and rescues over the past year. - Fire News photos by Bill D’Alessandro
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Suffolk Police Family Fun Day
-Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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Burn Center Recognition Day at Stony Brook
On May 14, 2015, the Suffolk County Volunteer Firefighters Burn Center Fund held their annual Recognition Day. Congratulations to President Cathy Herbst, 1st Vice President Dawn Meyer, 2nd Vice President Nick Luparella, Secretary Claudia Harford and Jerry Owenburg and they lead the organization in 2015. This year’s awards and honors were as follows: Burn Nurse of the Year — Tanima (Amy) Yaibuathes; Nursing Assistant of the Year — Lou Sandra Baxter; Care Provider of the Year — Dr. Omer Kaymakcalan; Robert Lyon Burn Center Award — ex-Chief John Lussa Tim Murphy of the Long Island Bagpipe Company presented the Burn Center with a check for $3000. Thanks go to the following organizations for their support and generous contributions in 2014: the Suffolk County Volunteer Firefighters Burn Center at Stony Brook Medicine, Friends of Islip Firefighters, Quogue Fire Department, New York Fire Alarm Association, Southampton Fire Department Juniors, St. James Fire Department Rescue Co. 9, St. Paul’s Church, Sag Harbor Fire Department Juniors, Lindenhurst Fire Department, Northport American Legion Post 694, Red Knights Chapter 25 NY, New York Islanders Hockey Club, Stephen L. Weiner, Long Island Events LLC. -Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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Fire News, June 2015, Page 119
Obituary
Remembering a Brother Firefighter and Police Officer
On February 21, 2015, ex-Chief Frank G. Morris, a 36-year member of Rescue, Hook, Ladder and Bucket Company No. 1 of the Lynbrook Fire Department passed away after a long illness. ExChief Morris was a beloved member of his company and the department, and also served as a police officer for 35 years with the Nassau County Police Department. A funeral Mass, attended by firefighters and police officers, was held on February 25, 2015, at Our Lady of Peace Church in Lynbrook. - Fire News photos by Steve and Brian Grogan and Dan Neri
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FireNews.com
Fire News, June 2015, Page 121
Obituary
Sayville’s Honorary Chief Dominick Catera
It is with deep regret that the Sayville Fire Department announced the passing of Honorary Chief Dominick J. Catera, who answered his last alarm on February 23, 2015, at the age of 79. Honorary Chief Catera joined the Sayville Fire Department on June 20, 1968, and was a proud member of the Hook and Ladder Company for over 46 years. Originally a police officer, Dominick retired from the rank of Fire Captain after a successful 22-year career with the FDNY. Working in some of the busiest companies throughout the city during the 1970s, Dominick was always proud to speak of his experiences as one of the original members assigned to the “Super Pumper” apparatus of Engine 207 in downtown Brooklyn.
Always an active fire fighter in Sayville, more than once he was recognized for his bravery and in 1988 was awarded the Medal of Valor for his life saving actions in the rescue of a couple from a boarding house fire. Since retirement, ‘Dom’ could often be found behind the wheel of a first-due rig rolling out of Broadway Avenue’s Station #2 firehouse. Always enthusiastic to tell a good fire story to the younger members, he particularly enjoyed mentioning how, in a letter to the editor, he successfully corrected Fire Engineering magazine on a hydraulics calculation in 1971. His passion for training and the education of firefighters was evident as he served the Suffolk Fire Academy as a County Instructor for over 40 years, remaining on staff until the
time of his passing. The pinnacle of his career at the fire academy was when he was presented with the Chief Al Nemecek Award for Instructor Excellence in 2005. Any tribute to Dominick Catera would not be complete without mentioning that his volunteer spirits reached beyond the Sayville Fire Department. Dominick volunteered at his church and sang in the church choir and at weddings and was known for his rendition of the “Ave Maria.” Dominick is survived by his lovely wife Carol, to whom he was married over 50 years, and their daughter Donna and son-in-law John. A Mass of Christian Burial was held at St. Johns Church of Bohemia with full firematic services and honors.
Page 124, Fire News, June 2015
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