VOLUME XLIV, NO. 10
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Since 1973 JUNE 2017
Story on page 6. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
Fire News Welcomes all to the NYS Fire Chiefs Expo See Us At The Event Center Booth 1121
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In this issue... East Rockaway House Fire East Rockaway with mutual aid from Lynbrook make quick work of a house fire. See story page 27
Central Islip Blaze A house fire fight starts off with full involvement and a partial collapse. See story page 46
Complications in Levittown FFs are met with a first-floor fire extending, propane tanks and a pool in the middle of the fire ground. See story page 52
County Border MVA Melville and Plainview FDs, Nassau and Suffolk PDs join to handle an LIE MVA. See story page 67
Nassau & Suffolk RecruitNY Departments from around the island participate at Nassau Firefighter’s Museum event.
See stories page 114
Obituaries, Memorials Gordon Height’s Robert Wilson Seaford’s Rachel Hayden
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: Vinnie Ammirati, Tim Asbell, Bill Bennett, Chris Brenner, Jeff Bressler, Kirk Candan, Wayne Carrington, Amanda Coffey, Ed Coppa, Bill D'Alessandro, Mike DesCalso, Jim Dunn, Larry Fox, Lee Genser, Myron Goldstein, Bryan Gosik, Brian Grogan, Steve Grogan, Mike Guarino, Daniel Gunther, Michael Gunther, Stephanie Handshaw, Jeff Havlik, Jack Healy, Branden Heller, Michael Heller, Christine Heeren, Robert Holley, Cody Hoyle, Kevin Imm, John Ippolito, Kate Kuntz, Joe Lapietra, Richard Lewin, Bryan Lopez, Harry Loud, Kurt Ludwig, Brad Maier, John Mancino, Paul Mazza, Terry McCarrick, Lou Minutoli, Ron Monteleone, Jim Mooney, Ilene Morris, Michael Murphy, Charles A. Murphy, Mike Oppedisano, John Neely, Phil Orlando, Robert O'Rourk, Francis "Sid" Parkan, Kevin Parkan, Tom Pesce, Kevin Peterson, Jackson Pokress, Jerry Presta, Myles Quinn, Jerry Rudolph, Dave Rubin, Jim, Rugen, AJ Ryan, Steve Schaefer, Drew Silverman, Steve Silverman, Joe Sperber, Rich Stark, JoAnn Stephani, Brian Thomas, Ed Tuffy, Joe Virgilio, Dennis Whittam, Cameron Wilken, Michael Wiwczar, John Wladyka, Jr. COLUMNISTS: Jeff Bailes, Paul Hashagen, Bruce Johnson, John Salka, Billy Goldfeder, Danny Peluso, Bradley Pinksy, Tom Rinelli COPYRIGHT 2017, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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See pages 121 and 137
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 EMS Coverage . . . . . . . . . . . . .starts on page 54 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . pages 124-125 Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . .pages 128-129 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 132 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 134
Letters to the Editor, byline articles, and columns represent the opinions of the writers and photographers and are not necessarily the views of the Fire News. We reserve the right to edit all of the above. We are not responsible for errors in advertisements beyond the cost of advertising space. Copy submitted is subject to editing for space requirements. The placing of an advertisement in this publication does not constitute endorsement. Contents are copyrighted. Editorial and advertising copy cannot be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Fire News is published monthly by Fire News Inc, with corporate offices at 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713.
44 Years of Excellence As you know, Fire News is in its 44th year of publication. If you have any stories, photos and good memories from the past, please send them to LI@FireNews.com.
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
Don’t Be Complacent It is 0300 and your tones go off informing you of an automatic alarm at a residence. There are a lot of thoughts that should be going through your head as you are responding to the call. Automatic alarm, not a commercial establishment, no additional calls, etc. Your dispatcher informs the officer or chief he has no additional information. Your sleepy mind might be thinking about getting the call over with and getting back to bed. Damn automatic alarms! You arrive on scene at a typical house in a residential development. No cars in the driveway, and no sign of anyone in the home. You knock on the door, ring the door bell, perform a 360 and confirm no one is home. You find a window that isn’t locked, make entry into the home and there is no sign of danger. Or is there? The front door is opened and a few guys search the house, finding a smoke alarm head flashing. There is no apparent reason for the activation. Hey, you
have been at this type of call many times. It is probably a defective alarm head that was set off by any number of reasons. By now, a neighbor pops in and asks, “Anything wrong?” You go through your usual questions and find out the house was just sold and the new owner stopped by to check the house and cleaned up. You are ready to go home, when one of your crew says he smells something in the basement. Making a long story short, it turned out the homeowner set off several insecticide “bombs” in the basement to take care of a bug problem. Fortunately, no one was hurt at this call. But this call makes you think of everything you did right, what you did wrong and what could have happened that might have had disastrous results. All of us, at times, can be accused of complacency. We assume that every call is going to be like the past calls we have had, especially with automatic alarms. Carbon
monoxide, chemicals, gas leaks that show no sign of odor as you are walking around a structure, are all possibilities that we must be aware of when we enter a building. I can tell you to wear your SCBA and facepiece all of the time. But let’s face it, we don’t always do what we know is the safe thing to do. This insecticide call actually happened. No one was hurt, but the call made me think that possibly we should encourage homeowners to place signs on their home when they are using total-release foggers or bug bombs. Encourage your community at Fire Safety Day to read labels on dangerous products and not to be complacent of the hazards of using these products. Use every call as a learning tool to stay safe for future calls. It is springtime, the time of the year that homeowners use pesticides. Keep this in mind when you respond to calls for a “strange odor.” - Dennis
Announcements HUNTINGTON HOSE COMPANY ANNUAL HOEDOWN
The Huntington Hose Company will hold its 6th Annual Country Hoedown, an outdoor country concert, on June 24, 2017, from 1800 to 2300. Music will be provided by Whiskey Road. The event features line dancing, beer and a barbecue (included with your ticket), and will be held at the Huntington Fire Department at 1 Leverich Place in Huntington. Tickets are $40 at the door and $35 for advanced purchased, which are available at www.huntingtonhoedown.brownpapertickets.com.
HORMEL FOODS PARTNERS WITH THE NFFF FOR CHILI CONTEST
The makers of Hormel Chili are working to highlight the underappreciated cooking talents of firefighters everywhere, while also giving firehouses across the country a chance to win $10,000. Teaming up with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), the makers of Hormel Chili will conduct the “America’s Best Firehouse Chili Contest.” The contest will take place over three months, where firefighters will be encouraged to submit their best chili recipe to www.Hormel. com/firehousechili for judging. Host of the cooking show Firehouse Kitchen and retired NYC firefighter, Ray Cooney, will be judging initial entries and narrowing the field down to the top 10. From there, consumers will be allowed to vote on their favorite recipes through the contest website to determine the three finalists. Those finalists will be flown to New York City to compete in a live chili cook-off for a chance to win $10,000 for their station. Judging of recipes will be based on originality, potential of flavor (flavor profile) and inspiration behind each recipe. To conclude the competition, the makers of Hormel Chili will be presenting the NFFF with a donation of $20,000. The grand prize-winning station will receive $10,000, as well as chili to stock their kitchen. Second and third place winners will each receive $2,500.
ISLIP FIREFIGHTERS MUSEUM TO OPEN
The Islip Town Firefighters Museum and Education Center will hold their grand opening on June 24, 2017. The opening will be held on Saturday, June 24 at 1000 at the museum, which is located at 4 Courthouse Drive in Central Islip (across from Ducks Stadium). The museum has been a 26-year project with the actual construction taking only about one year. The museum invites everyone to their grand opening.
CAMP FAHRENHEIT 516 OPENS DOORS TO SOUTHERN NEW YORK
On July 25, 2017, the Nassau Juniors Annual Fire Camp will have a few guests. A limited number of spots for surrounding juniors/explorers in the southern New York area for the 2017 camp session will be available. If your company would like to have a chance of attending the camp this summer, send an e-mail to nassau juniors@gmail.com and ask for an application no later than June 8. Search YouTube for last year’s camp to see what we are about at “Nassau Juniors Camp Fahrenheit 2016.” You can also send a request and follow us on Facebook and Instagram at “nassaujuniors.”
SOUTHOLD SEAFOOD BASH AND CHINESE AUCTION FUNDRAISER
On July 15, 2017, from 1800 to 2200, the Southold Fire Department is hosting a Backyard Seafood Bash and Chinese Auction. Live music will be provided by the very popular “Studio G.” Fresh seafood, salads, burgers and hot dogs, beer, wine, soda, water ... and many quality auction items will be offered. The auction opens to the public from 1200 to 1800, food is served from 1800 to 2000 and the band will play through the entire event. Advanced ticket purchases are encouraged: $50, ages 6 to 12 reduced price. For further info call 631-765-3385. Please bring a small folding table and folding chairs.
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Critters Saved in North Merrick
On the morning of May 10, 2017, the North Merrick Fire Department was called to a house fire on Powell Avenue. First arriving units found heavy fire on the exposure 3 side of a single-story home. Engine 672 put two lines into operation. The crew from Ladder 673 vented and searched the house and found numerous animals and, although several cats were lost, three cats, two dogs and a lizard were saved. Mutual aid was provided by Roosevelt, Merrick, North Bellmore and Bellmore. It took about an hour to bring the fire under control, with the house heavily damaged. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
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Cover Story
The Smithtown Fire Department was toned out for a structure fire on May 3, 2017, on Sunrise Lane. A number of neighbors reported hearing two explosions from the two-story home. An explosion from the rear of the dwelling, possibly from a propane tank, started the fire, which rapidly spread through the interior of the home. Kevin Pearsall of Engine Company 3 who lived a few doors down was the first on scene. He entered the home before the fire spread and escorted the homeowner from the premises. The homeowner was later taken to the Stony Brook University Medical Center. Units began an exterior attack. Firefighters hit the fire from all exposures, but the home was severely damaged. Mutual aid came from Hauppauge, Kings Park, St. James and Nissequogue. - Fire News photos by Jeff Bressler, PIO and Joseph C. Sperber
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Smithtown Brush Fire
The Smithtown Fire Department responded to a brush fire at the rear of homes on Nadia Court near the Landing Meadow Country Club property on April 17, 2017. Mutual aid was requested from Kings Park to assist. - Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
Farmingdale Shed Fire April 17, 2016, the Farmingdale Fire Department responded to a shed fire on Stern Court. Engine 923 secured a water supply, crews stretched one line and quickly had the fire knocked down. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
Plainview Brush Fire On April 17, 2017, the Plainview Fire Department received multiple calls for a brush fire and smoke in the area of Lark Avenue. Engine 951 stretched two booster lines to the rear of a home. The fire was knocked down by a garden hose and crews extinguished the remaining fire and overhauled the area. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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Brentwood House Fire
On April 19, 2017, the Brentwood Fire Department was activated for a house fire on Udall Road. Chief of Department Derbyshire, who was en route, requested mutual aid. Units arrived to find a twostory house well involved on the exposure 3 side with fire through the roof. Engine 3-2-14 put multiple lines in operation. As members were advancing into the house the roof collapsed into the second floor and all members were pulled for an exterior attack. With three handlines, a deck gun and a master stream the heavy fire was knocked down before firefighters could re-enter and extinguish any remaining fire. It took over an hour to bring the fire under control. Mutual aid was provided by Bay Shore, West Islip and Deer Park. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza and Richard Stark
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Syosset Kitchen Fire Stopped
On Easter morning the Syosset Fire Department was alerted for a kitchen fire on Cheshire Avenue. Crews were met with a heavy smoke condition coming from a two-story home. The fire was quickly extinguished and truck crews opened all of the walls in the kitchen as the engine crew gave the walls a final wet down. No injuries were reported, but a turtle was rescued from the home. Chief of the Department Douglas Share was in command. - Fire News photos by Kevin Imm
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Brentwood Truck Fire
The Brentwood Fire Department responded to a reported vehicle fire on Expressway Drive South near Wicks Road on April 17, 2017. Chief of Department Derbyshire arrived and found the cab of a tractor-trailer fully involved. Engine 3-2-12 put a line into operation and had the fire extinguished in about 20 minutes. Engine 3-2-15 and Heavy Rescue 3-2-18 overhauled the vehicle. The driver of the truck was not injured. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza and Joseph C. Sperber
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Mineola Dryer Fire The Mineola Fire Department responded to a reported dryer fire on April 16, 2017, on Buckhard Avenue. The alarm was upgraded to a working fire for a heavy smoke condition throughout the residence. Mutual aid companies were on the scene. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Islip Senior Housing Fire On April 15, 2017, the Islip Fire Department responded to a reported fire at a senior housing complex on Nikia Drive. First Assistant Chief Butler arrived to find fire showing from the attic and roof of one of the buildings. The fire was contained to the one building and brought under control within an hour with numerous units affected and residents displaced. Mutual aid was provided to the scene by Bay Shore, East Islip and Islip Terrace. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
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Quick Work in Hicksville
The Hicksville Fire Department responded to a working fire on Levittown Parkway on April 12, 2017. A heavy smoke condition was visible on arrival with engine companies quickly stretching their handlines to douse the blaze. Mutual aid companies assisted at the scene with Syosset acting as the FAST. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
East Farmingdale House Fire
On April 16, 2017, the East Farmingdale Fire Company was alert- knock down the fire on the second floor and attic in about 20 mined for a house fire on 18th Street. Third Assistant Chief Lewis and utes. Mutual aid came from North Lindenhurst, West Babylon and First Assistant Chief Iuzzini arrived to smoke showing. Chief of the Wyandanch-Wheatley Heights Ambulance Corps. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza Department Joseph arrived and took command. Engine 1-5-1 and Ladder 1-5-15 stretched two lines with one going into operation to
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This Looks Familiar ‌ Again
The Copiague Fire Department was alerted for a building fire on South Strongs Avenue and Chetic Avenue on April 10, 2017. Chief of Department Fitch and Assistant Chiefs Rosenberg and Nuzzi arrived to find fire emanating from the second floor. The fire was quickly knocked down and brought under control. The vacant building has been the scene of several previous fires for a number of years and it is believed that squatters were in the building prior to the fire. Amityville responded as RIT. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
Oakdale House Fire
Just after midnight on April 24, 2017, the West Sayville Fire roof of the two-story wood frame dwelling. Crews put handlines Department was dispatched for a reported structure fire on Hewlett and a deck gun to work. Mutual aid came from Bohemia, Sayville, Lane in Oakdale. Three minutes from the time of activation Chief Bayport and East Islip and Sayville Community Ambulance. - Fire News photos by Harry D’Onofrio, ex-Chief, WSFD of Department Todd Gray was on scene reporting a fire through the
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Head of Harbor House Fire The St. James Fire Department and Head of the Harbor Police responded to a house fire on Three Sisters Road on April 15, 2017. A fire, apparently originating in a fireplace, caused extensive damage. Mutual aid came from Nesconset, Nissequogue and Smithtown. No injuries were reported and the fire was brought under control in 30 minutes. - Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
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Fast Work in Wyandanch
On April 7, 2017, the Wyandanch Fire Company was activated for a house fire on Cumberbach Street. Crews arrived to fire showing from the rear of the house. Engine 1-10-3 was followed by 1-10-1 and those crews had two lines in operation quickly and had the fire knocked down within minutes. North Babylon and the Wyandanch-Wheatley Heights Ambulance Corps also responded. Chief of Department DeAngelis had command. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
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N. Patchogue Comm’l Fire On May 12, 2017, the North Patchogue Fire Department was activated for a commercial structure fire at the Grace Industries building on Access Road. Upon arrival, commanding units were met with smoke showing from the structure. Mutual aid was requested from Patchogue, Medford, Hagerman and Blue Point. The fire took nearly an hour to knock down. Command requested a fire marshal to the scene for an investigation. - Fire News photos by Bryan Lopez and Dennis Berger
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Greenlawn Stops Bedroom Fire
E. Northport Douses House Fire
The Greenlawn Fire Department responded to a residential bedroom fire on Brennan Street on May 3, 2017. Dix Hills and Huntington Manor assisted. Firefighters had the blaze knockeddown and controlled within 20 minutes, containing the fire to a first-floor bedroom. Centerport provided standby, and paramedics from the Cyanide Response Team from Greenlawn, Dix Hills, East Northport and Commack Ambulance were on the scene. Units were under the command of Chief Mike Bellis, supported by Assistant Chiefs Joe Costanza, Angelo Santomauro and Pete Miller. - Fire News story and photo by Steve Silverman
On April 24, 2017, the East Northport Fire Department responded to a fire on Barry Drive. Under the command of Chief Dan Heffernan and Assistant Chiefs Dan Flanagan and Tom Bourne, engine and truck crews worked to extinguish a room and contents fire in the rear of a private house. The scene was deemed under control in 20 minutes. One civilian was evaluated by EMS at the scene for smoke inhalation. Also responding were the Cyanide Response Team provided by Paramedics from Dix Hills, Greenlawn and the Commack VAC. Mutual aid also came from Northport, Commack and Commack VAC. - Fire News story by Steve Silverman, photo by Laura Riccio
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Copiague Fire, Collapse
The Copiague Fire Department was called to a house fire on Abbington Court on May 5, 2017. Chief of Department Fitch arrived to find a two-story house well involved, with the exposure 3 side fully involved and extending to the 2 and 4 sides. Engine 13-9 put multiple lines into operation along with the crew of Engine 1-3-5. The fire spread into the attic and caused a portion of the roof to collapse on the exposure 3 side. It took about an hour to bring the fire under control with no reported injuries, as the occupants and pets had escaped uninjured prior to the fire department arriving. Mutual aid was provided by Lindenhurst, North Amityville, West Babylon, North Lindenhurst and Amityville. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
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Holbrook Blaze
On the morning of April 18, 2017, the Holbrook Fire Department Ronkonkoma and Lakeland. The fire was quickly knocked down by was activated for a fire in the vicinity of Hiram Avenue. Chief Chris first-due crews without further incident. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez Heinssen arrived to find visible fire from a structure and updated the location to Mohawk Place. Mutual aid was provided by
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East Rockaway House Fire
The East Rockaway Fire Department responded to the report of a down. The Lynbrook Fire Department acted as the FAST Team. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com house fire on Second Avenue on March 9, 2017. Arriving companies found a fire in the rear of the home, which was quickly knocked
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Mastic Lumberyard Fire, Collapse
On April 18, 2017, the Mastic Beach Fire Department was activated for a commercial structure fire at an old lumber warehouse on Mastic Beach Road. Upon arrival, commanding units were met with heavy smoke showing visible fire and a fully involved structure. Mutual aid was provided by Mastic, Bellport, Brookhaven,
Manorville and Hagerman. Operations were kept to exterior only. The structure collapsed due to heavy fire damage. Command requested a fire marshal and the arson squad to the scene for an investigation. - Fire News photos by Bryan Lopez
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Good Stop at Dix Hills Attic Fire
The Dix Hills Fire Department responded to a residential structure fire on Grey Birch Court on May 7, 2017. Firefighters arrived to an active fire in the attic and began an aggressive attack, bringing the blaze under control within 20 minutes. The homeowner was transported to Huntington Hospital with smoke inhalation by the Dix Hills Rescue Squad. Crews were under the command of Chief Tom Napolitano and Assistant Chiefs Joe Williamson and Brett Tepe. Huntington Manor and Melville assisted at the scene, while Greenlawn and Commack VAC provided standby. Also activated to respond was the Cyanide Response Team of paramedics from Dix Hills, Greenlawn, and East Northport and CVAC. Suffolk County Fire-Rescue Coordinators were also dispatched to the scene. The fire was under investigation by the Huntington Town Fire Marshal and Suffolk Police Arson Squad. - Fire New photo by Steve Silverman
Malverne Chimney Fire
The Malverne Fire Department responded to a chimney fire at a home on Cambridge Street on March 11. 2017. The blaze extended into the walls but was quickly doused by arriving engine companies. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Book Review
Stories of Fire by Paul Hashagen I recently read Paul Hashagen’s latest book, Stories of Fire. Starting off, I must say that when I started reading this book, I found I could not put it down. Almost magically, I became a part of each chapter as I remembered hearing about the famous fires that Hashagen discusses in his book. Paul not only writes about the landmark fires of the past, but he also writes about the heroes who fought the fires and what was learned after each battle. Throughout the 30 chapters in this book, Hashagen highlights fires that occurred around the world — starting in 1608. This book takes the reader through the evolution of the fire service. It was captivating to read about ideas that firefighters came up with in the 1800s to help battle the flames that were occurring throughout a growing America. I found it fascinating that the first ladder truck stood idle for almost two years before it was put to use at a San Francisco blaze in 1871. Would you believe the first bailout ‘system’ was orignated in 1830? Tidbits such as these are scattered throughout the book. As the stories guide your travel through time, you soon realize that many of the fires that occurred throughout history tested the fortitude of firefighters as they “... slid poles, harnessed horses, and crank started motorized apparatus.” As cities became more populated, buildings became taller and larger, the hazards of firefighting became greater. Stories of Fire talks about many of the problems firefighters had in the past — and are still having today — as they fight to save the residents of our cities. I am sure that as you look at the pen-and-ink drawings of the past, which are highlighted in the book, you will sit back and dream what it was like to be a firefighter in days of old. I read the last chapter – The Call — of this book several times. As I read it, I thought of why I became a firefighter. I sat back and thought that maybe someone from the past is living inside of me as I still get excited when the tones go off and I am called to duty. “As my mind fills with the ancient sensations, strength, weakness, fear and valor generated by primordial energy.” If you are new to the fire service, read this book so you know what great things those who came before you have done to make your future career safer. If you are at the end of your career, read this book so you can relate to the stories in the book and share your interpretation of each chapter around the coffee table. Well done Paul Hashagen! Thanks for continuing to remind us of our firefighting past. - Dennis
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2 FFs, 1 Civ Injured at Central Islip Blaze
Early on April 30, 2017, the Central Islip Fire Department was activated for a residential structure fire on Bushwick Avenue. Units were met with smoke showing and visible fire from an attached garage. In minutes the fast moving, fire spread to the first and second floor. Command requested mutual aid from East Brentwood, Hauppauge, Lakeland and East Islip. Crews began an aggressive attack but command soon ordered everyone out of the structure due to poor conditions. One firefighter was airlifted to Stony Brook University Hospital Burn Center for burns, while another firefighter and a civilian occupant were transported by ground for minor injuries. Command ordered a fire marshal to the scene for an investigation. - Fire News photos by Bryan Lopez
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Wires Complicate Gazebo Blaze Early on April 19, 2017, the Wantagh Fire Department was dispatched to a house fire on Tusk Lane. On arrival, firefighters were met with a gazebo fire with live electrical lines involved at the rear of the home. PSEG was requested to the scene. Wantagh Engine 692 and 697 stretched two lines and went into operation once the power was secured. The heavy fire load resulted in minor extension to two homes. Firefighters made a quick knockdown under the command of Wantagh First Assistant Chief Gross III. - Fire News photo by K2M Photography.com
Chow’s Ready The Hempstead Fire Department responded to the report of smoke coming from an apartment on Terrace Avenue on April 17, 2017. Arriving companies discovered burning food on the stove and the incident was quickly placed under control. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Rules, Codes, Regulations, Standards and Laws Rules, Codes, Regulations, Standards and Laws are something the Incident Safety Officer (ISO) should be familiar with. The fire department and EMS community enjoys praise from the local communities we serve, and it is rare that there would be court prosecution. However, don’t think you have the right to disregard the Rules, Codes, Regulations, Standards or Law. Rules began to be created in the 1960s and by the 1990s there were an enormous number of them. They were brought about because of the amount of fires and the amount of Line of Duty Deaths (LODDs) and lack of a standard of care. Many of these LODDs were preventable through a rule, regulation, code or standard, according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), the government organization charged with investigating all serious injuries and fatalities. There is a standard of care and liability that comes along with fire and EMS calls, as the courts have become inundated with litigation and compensation suits for deaths, injury and suffering. There is a growing need for the ISO to be familiar with and understand the standards and the many regulations that are involved with incident operations. The fire service is not as regulated as many consumer industries, such as the food and drug industry, airlines, etc., but the guiding publications are important to the ISO. You, as the ISO could be very easily called upon to testify in a civil or a criminal case involving injury or a LODD. The standards, regulations and guiding laws assist the court, lawyers and jurors to understand the facts of the incident. So, who are the agencies involved and what is their role? National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). The NFPA has developed national consensus standards of guides, codes and minimum standards. They also provide reports on fire related topics using a wide range of data. The NFPA is a standard and is not a law until the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) adopts it. However in many cases, departments and organizations use the NFPA’s requirements even though it is has not adopted it, i.e., when purchasing apparatus, Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA's) and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), etc. Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA). OSHA is involved with the occupational safety and health of all employees and they develop and enforce the Code of Federal Regulations (CFRs). The Public Employees Safety and Health (PESH) The NYS Public Employee Safety and Health Bureau (PESH), created in 1980, enforces safety and health standards promulgated under the United States Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) and several state standard. This is the organization that ensures the fire service is adhering to the rules and is a part of the Department of Labor (DOL). National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 established NIOSH as an agency focused on the study of workers’ health. NIOSH is part of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NIOSH investigates all reports of serious accidents and fatalities. They also provide research and will recommend procedures. You can download their Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards (NPG) at www.cdc.gov. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the DHS is part of the National Response Plan (NRP) and the, Incident Command Systems (ICS), which was developed by the DHS Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA has rules and regulations, which they enforce, regarding hazardous material and processes. To summarize: “Once you understand the rules of the players and guiding publications in the emergency service, you can look at individual publications that may have a direct impact on firefighter safety. The effective ISO should spend time researching the depth of these publications beyond what is offered here.” Dodson (2016) Question: Which organization investigates all duty related firefighter fatalities? Answer: NIOSH (Dodson 3RD Edition (2016) Jones and Bartlett Learning, page 31) Ex-Chief Jeff Bailes President Brookhaven Town Safety Officers Association, Inc. www.btsoa.org; 631-495-1313
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Quick Job in So. Farmingdale
Early on April 21, 2017, the South Farmingdale Fire Department was alerted for a house fire on Colonial Drive along with an automatic dual response from Bethpage Engine 5. Arriving units found an exterior fire had been partially extinguished and crews overhauled the home and checked for extension. No extension was found and crews opened up and soaked the area. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
Hicksville Tree Fire
On March 8, 2017, the Hicksville Fire Department responded to a report of wires down and a tree on fire on Gem Court. Arriving units found a tree on fire but no wires down. The engine crew extinguished the fire and wet down the area. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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Quick Knockdown in Brentwood
Recently, the Brentwood Fire Department was activated for a reported structure fire at a doctor's office on Brentwood Road. The first-due ladder arrived to find smoke showing from the second floor. Command requested mutual aid from East Brentwood and Bayshore. The fire was quickly knocked down without further incident. - Fire News photos by Bryan Lopez
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So. Farmingdale House Fire The South Farmingdale Fire Department was called to a house fire on Maple Avenue on March 17, 2017. While en route, Chief of Department Mackie confirmed smoke showing from a distance and requested mutual aid. Units arrived to heavy fire showing from the exposure 3 basement window, which extended to the first floor. Engine 972 was followed in by Ladder 978. The crew from 972 stretched two lines with the crew from Farmingdale Squad 924. Massapequa Ladder 6 was originally the FAST but was put to work and replaced by Plainview Ladder 953. Additional mutual aid was provided by East Farmingdale, Bethpage and Amityville. It took about an hour to bring the fire under control. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
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Mother’s Day House Fire
The Smithtown Fire Department was toned out for a structure fire on Mother’s Day, May 14, 2017, at Branch Drive in the Village of the Branch. Residents were able to extricate themselves from the property when the fire started. The fire caused severe damage to the interior of the ranch. Three of the residents of the home were transported to both St. Catherine of Siena Medical Center and Stony
Brook University Hospital. On scene were Chiefs Landrigan Fitzpatrick, Diecidue and Duckham; and mutual aid from Kings Park, Nesconset, Hauppauge, Nissequogue and Central IslipHauppauge Ambulance. - Fire News photos by Jeff Bressler; PIO/SFD and Joseph C. Sperber
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East Islip House Fire
On February 21, 2017, the East Islip Fire Department was activated for a residential structure fire on Greenwood Avenue. Commanding units were met with smoke showing from the home and advised the first-due engine to stretch a line to the front door. After further investigation, interior teams opened up walls in the structure and found active fire, which was quickly knocked down without further incident. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Nice Stop in Island Park
Late on March 28, 2017 the Island Park Fire Department was dispatched for a house fire on Suffolk Road. Nassau County Police were on scene reporting a working fire. Firefighters arrived to find fire on the second floor of a two-story private dwelling. Engine 224 stretched two lines and firefighters made a quick knockdown. Long Beach and Oceanside were among the mutual aid units. Units were under the command of Island Park Chief of Department Jimmy Sarro. - Fire News photo by K2M Photography.com
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Pets Recovered in Malverne
Numerous cats and dogs were recovered by Malverne firefighters and an off-duty Lynbrook police officer during a house fire on Edward Street in North Lynbrook on March 27, 2017. The blaze appeared to have originated near the front porch and quickly spread up the front and side of the house. Firefighters quickly doused the flames and entered the home to search for the pets reportedly inside. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Central Islip Fire Central Islip firefighters were alerted for a structure fire on Sportsman Street on January 17, 2017. Arriving units, under the command of Chief Bob McGee, found a heavy volume of fire in the basement with extension to the first floor and attic, and a partial roof collapse. Sixty-one members and eight units responded with mutual aid provided by Islip Terrace, East Brentwood and
Hauppauge. Additionally, the Suffolk County Arson Squad and CIHauppauge Volunteer Ambulance Company were on scene and one firefighter was treated for a minor injury. The residence suffered extensive heat, smoke and water damage. - Fire News photos by Charles A. Murphy, CIFD Photo Unit
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Central Islip Fire...continued
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Multi Collapses in Wantagh
Early on February 16, 2017, the Wantagh Fire Department was dispatched to a house fire on Seaford Court off Mandalay Beach Road. When units arrived, they found a two-story private dwelling fully involved with all occupants safely out. Firefighters immediately went to an exterior attack using multiple handlines and the bucket of Ladder 6911. Seaford was designated the FAST and responded with Ladder 683. During the operation, firefighters encountered collapses of different parts of the home and a gas-fed fire. The cause of the fire was under investigation by the Nassau County Fire Marshals Office. - Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com
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Fully Involved in Centereach
The Centereach Fire Department responded to a house fire on Kejaro Court on April 19, 2017. Upon arrival, firefighters found the home fully involved with extension to a neighboring residence. Assisting at the scene were Setauket, Farmingville and Selden. Suffolk County Police Arson Squad and Brookhaven Town Fire Marshals were on the scene investigating the cause. It took over an hour to bring the blaze under control and no injuries were reported. Third Assistant Chief Joseph Feola, was in charge of the scene. - Fire News photos by Amanda Coffey, Ron Monteleone and Joseph C. Sperber
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Roosevelt Car Fire Early on March 10, 2017, Roosevelt firefighters responded to a car fire on East Greenwich Street off Meyer Street. One handline was stretched and put into operation. Units were under the command of Roosevelt Chief Chris Wint. - Fire News photo by K2M Photography
Ronkonkoma Shed Fire On April 2, 2017, the Ronkonkoma Fire Department was activated for a shed fire on Lawrence Street. - Fire News photo by Amanda Coffey
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Heavy Damage at Levittown Fire
On April 18, 2017, the Levittown Fire Department received multiple calls for a house fire on Flamingo Road. Arriving units were met with heavy fire on the first floor, extending to the second. A propane tank was venting in the rear of the home and a built-in pool was a major obstacle. Multiple mutual aid companies were called and the home sustained major damage. - Fire News photos by Kevin Imm
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EMS ACROSS THE ISLAND
Garden City Park MVA The Garden City Park Fire Department was on the scene of an accident inside Michael J. Tully Park in North New Hyde Park early on May 2, 2017. The crash, which caused one vehicle to flip onto its roof, had the driver trapped in her car for a few minutes until emergency crews were able to remove her. She was transported to an area hospital by Nassau County EMS. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Manorville MVA The Manorville Fire Department was dispatched to an MVA with entrapment and fire on MorichesMiddle Island Road and Weeks Avenue. Also responding were the Suffolk Police ESU and the Ridge Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Jesse Alaimo
Gas Leak in Patchogue On April 28, 2017, Patchogue and North Patchogue firefighters responded to a gas main leak at Main Street and North Ocean Avenue (“Four Corners”) in Patchogue. - Fire News photo by Dennis Berger
Oil Spill in N. Massapequa On April 2, 2017, the North Massapequa Fire Department responded to a large leak from an oil tanker at the intersection of North Broadway and North Linden Street. Several employees from the oil company were on scene containing and cleaning up the spill. One engine from Massapequa and two HazMat units from Wantagh also responded, as well as the Nassau County Fire Marshal’s Haz-Mat team. - Fire News photo by Ed Tuffy
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Four Injured in Melville DWI The Melville Fire Department responded to a threevehicle MVA on Walt Whitman Road and Arrowood Lane on April 14, 2017. Four people suffered injuries and were transported to Huntington and Plainview hospitals. Dix Hills and Plainview assisted with additional ambulances. Units were under the command of Chief Jason Bernfeld and Assistant Chiefs David Kaplan and Bill Schmitt. Suffolk Police charged one of the drivers with driving while intoxicated. - Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
Mineola Overturn The Mineola Fire Department was on the scene of an overturned SUV on Herricks Road near Garfield Avenue on April 13, 2017. The driver lost control of her vehicle, struck a parked vehicle, and overturned onto the roadway. She was transported by Mineola Ambulance to a nearby hospital. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Uniondale MVA
On April 30, 2017, the Uniondale Fire Department was dispatched were evaluated on scene and were not transported. The other vehito an MVA with overturn and possible entrapment on Clare Road. cle was parked and unoccupied. Units were under the command of Firefighters arrived to find a two-vehicle accident and one over- Uniondale Chief of Department Smith. - Fire News photo by K2M Photography.com turn. Four people in the overturned automobile self-extricated,
Medevac at Woodbury MVA
On May 3, 2017, the Syosset Fire Department was alerted for an MVA with pin at the intersection of Woodbury Road and Yukon Drive in Woodbury. Crews removed the driver’s door to extricate the driver who was airlifted to NUMC. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
2 Injured in Hempstead Hit-and-Run A pedestrian and the occupant of a sedan were injured April 29, 2017, in Hempstead by a hit-and-run driver. A car rear-ended a white sedan on North Franklin Street driving it into a nearby building and striking a passing pedestrian. The pedestrian lay on the sidewalk while the vehicle took off in an unknown direction. An occupant of the car that was rear-ended was also injured and both were transported to local hospitals. Hempstead firefighters and police were on the scene. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Patchogue Overturn
Patchogue firefighters responded to a van-school bus accident on the North Service Road of Sunrise Highway on April 25, 2017. - Fire News photo by Dennis Berger
Jamesport Car vs Tractor-Trailer
On April 27, 2017, the Jamesport Fire Department responded to an MVA on Main Road in Jamesport, at which a vehicle was pinned under a tractor-trailer with an occupant trapped. The driver was extricated by removing the vehicle’s door, door posts and passenger seat within four minutes of arrival. Fire Police and Riverhead Town Police closed Main Road from Manor Lane to Herricks Lane. The person was treated by Jamesport Fire Department Rescue Squad EMTs, Northwell first responders and Riverhead Town Volunteer Ambulance crews. - Fire News photo by John Andrejack
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Smithtown MVA
The Suffolk Police and Smithtown Fire Department responded to Department Ambulance to Stony Brook University Hospital sufferan MVA on West Jericho Turnpike on April 18, 2017. A car travel- ing non-life threatening injuries. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber ing westbound lost control, left the roadway and crashed into a chain link fence. The driver was transported by Smithtown Fire
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Van Overturns in Massapequa On May 3, 2017, Ladder 632 and Ambulance 6310 of the Massapequa Fire Department responded to an overturned van on Broadway. Chief of Department Beneville was in charge at the scene. The two occupants of the van were out of the vehicle when units arrived. - Fire News photo by Ed Tuffy
Lakeland Overturn On May 4, 2017, the Lakeland Fire Department was activated for an MVA with overturn at the intersection of Ocean Avenue and 3rd Street. Units were met with a two-car MVA with an SUV that rolled over into a ditch. Both drivers were self extricated. The drivers were transported to a nearby hospital for minor injuries via Lakeland Ambulance. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
FDIC Speaker David Woods David Woods is a professor in the Integrated Systems Engineering Division of The Ohio State University. He has worked to improve systems safety in high-risk settings for more than 35 years. On Wednesday, April 26, 2017, Woods presented “Resilience-inAction: Proactive Safety in a Changing World.� His presentation at FDIC covered operating systems and reasons for their failures. Failure is due to brittle systems, not human error. Systems operate successfully due to sources of resilience, usually hidden or underappreciated. Explaining accidents as due to an error by a person hides the operation of the systemic factors that create brittleness and undermine resilience. Breakdowns in learning lead organizations to miss signals that operations are becoming more brittle as relentless production pressure erodes the capabilities that provide resilience in the face of surprises. Learning about resiliencein-action highlights how people in various roles anticipate bottlenecks ahead, act to fill gaps, and are able to stretch system performance in the face of smaller and larger surprises. Analyses of dramatic failures of complex systems, such as the Columbia space shuttle accident, highlight this pattern and the need for proactive safety.
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Valley Stream MVA Recently firefighters handled an MVA in Valley Stream at Merrick Road and Railroad Avenue. Engine 342, as well as their ambulance, responded. - Fire News photo by Steve Takacs
Not Sure How She Did It ‌ But She Did The driver of an SUV lost control while backing out of her driveway and somehow overturned onto her neighbor’s front lawn on Harrison Street in Franklin Square on April 26, 2017. Franklin Square firefighters and Nassau County police were on the scene to secure the area. The driver suffered only minor injuries. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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1 Hurt in Hempstead 2-Car
One person was injured after a two-vehicle accident at the intersec- of the vehicles to gain access to the injured occupant. North Shore tion of Baldwin Road and Weir Street in Hempstead early on April Ambulance transported the aided to a local hospital. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com 22, 2017. Hempstead firefighters needed to remove the doors of one
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Teamwork at Borderline Melville Crash
The Melville and Plainview Fire Departments, and the Suffolk County and Nassau County Police Departments responded to a borderline crash on Round Swamp Road and the LIE North Service Road, on May 6, 2017. Melville arrived to find a minivan on its side with an adult male and three teenage females pinned inside. Melville firefighters and ESU officers used hydraulic tools to extricate the people. The four occupants and the driver of an SUV
involved, were all transported with non-life threatening injuries to Winthrop University and Huntington Hospitals by Melville Rescue Squad and Nassau County Police ambulances. Crews were under the command of Chief Jason Bernfeld and Assistant Chiefs Chris Nolan and David Kaplan. - Fire News story by Steve Silverman, photo courtesy Melville FD
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Plainview MVA On April 25, 2017, the Plainview Fire Department responded to an MVA with aided on Manetto Hill Road by Gilbert Lane. Two people were transported to local hospitals. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
Melville MVA
The Melville Fire Department responded to a twovehicle MVA on Pidgeon Hill Road in South Huntington, opposite St. Anthony’s High School on April 15, 2017. Melville Rescue Squad personnel evaluated three patients who were all RMA. An ambulance, paramedic responder and fire police were dispatched under the command of Chief Jason Bernfeld and First Assistant Chief Chris Nolan. - Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
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Pickup vs. Flatbed in Massapequa The Massapequa Fire Department and Nassau County Police responded to a two-vehicle head-on MVA on Old Sunrise Highway at Clocks Boulevard on March 15, 2017. A pickup, traveling east, and a flatbed pulling a trailer, traveling west, collided, trapping the driver of the pickup. The crews from Ladder 6, Ladder 2 and Nassau County Police ESU used multiple hydraulic tools to remove the driver side doors and roof of the truck to extricate the driver in about 25 minutes. Engine 6315 also responded to handle a large fluid spill. Once the driver was extricated, he was transported to Nassau University Medical Center by Nassau County Police Ambulance. Chief Of Department Beneville was in command of the scene. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
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Fire House Kitchen By Ray Cooney
Fire Museum Opening! The groundbreaking for the Islip town Fire was very moving. You could tell all the speechMuseum was on January 9, 2016 at 10 AM. On es were from the heart, especially the one from December 27, a week or so before, I got a Nick Campson. Nick spoke about how it all phone call from David June, one of the muse- started and how he'd been waiting for the day. ums main organizers, that it was finally hap- What made Nick’s speech so special was how pening- 26 years in the making. Dave asked me he thanked all the supporters. It was a long list if I could get some of the sponsors from but Nick made sure he acknowledged what each supporter did. It Firehouse Kitchen to was comical and donate some refreshUPCOMING FUNDRAISING warm at the same ments for this event. EVENTS FOR THE MUSEUM time. I answered “I’m on IN 2017 The Islip Town it!” the reply I Fire Museum is always give Dave June 10 located right next to when he tasks me Car Show Ducks Stadium in with something. The Touro College, Bay Shore, NY Central Islip. It is a one sponsor I could venue where Suffolk think of was Best June 11 County fire departMarket. They have Antique Fire Truck Show ments can show off three locations in the Heckscher Park, NY their antique fire town of Islip and September 23 equipment and share they are big supporttheir histories. It will ers of the volunteer Big Chili Cook Off also be a learning fire departments. Bayport (NY) Fire Department center to teach young Without hesitation minds about fire prethey accepted. Not only did they bring good food and drink but the vention and fire safety. Just like my safety tips CFO Jeff Yonkers came with his three sons to on my show. Wow! A year-and-a-half later it is time for help serve the food. Ok onto the ceremony. All the bigwigs came the grand opening. On June 24, 2017, the ribout from the town of Islip even Angie bon will be cut and the museum will finally be Carpenter the Town Supervisor and open. The Islip Town Fire Museum will be honorCouncilwoman Trish Bergen. The ceremony
ing all its supporters. To mention a few ... Georgi Vodka, DiCarlo Foods, Best Market, Wenner Bread, McNeill Insurance, Astro Mason Supply, Fire News, and of course Firehouse Kitchen. The Islip Town Fire Museum has been a great friend to Firehouse Kitchen. I will always support it and do what I can to make it great. Special thanks to Ray Reily, Bill Johnson, Ed Tulley, Rick Gimbal, David June, Warren Holtje, Nick Campson, Laura Johnson, Joe Giaquinta, Warren Horst (may he rest in peace) and the rest of the building committee. This is going to be a great day for the Town of Islip and for the firefighters of Suffolk County. Upcoming fundraising events for the Museum in 2017 are: June 10 — Car Show at Touro College in Bay Shore; June 11 — Antique Fire Truck Show at Heckscher Park; and September 23 — Big Chili Cook Off at the Bayport Fire Department. To find out more about Firehouse Kitchen go to Firehousekitchenshow.com. Friend us on Facebook and if you want your firehouse on Firehouse Kitchen e-mail me at firehousekitchentv@gmail.com.
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Overturn in Amityville The Amityville Fire and Police departments responded to a single-vehicle accident on South Bayview Avenue on the morning of April 23, 2017. The driver of an SUV struck a tree and caused the vehicle to overturn onto its side, injuring both occupants. Engine 1-1-3, Heavy Rescue 1-1-15 Ambulances 1-1-11, 1-1-12 and Fire Police 1-1-7 responded along with all chiefs. Crews stabilized the vehicle and used hydraulic tools to cut away part of the roof to extricate both occupants who were hanging by their seat belts. The people were transported to Good Samaritan Hospital with non-life threatening injuries. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Old Country/WSP MVA On April 20, 2017, the Hicksville and Westbury Fire Departments responded to a border call for an MVA on the Old Country Road overpass of the Wantagh State Parkway. Two people were injured and transported to local hospitals. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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Wyandanch, Deer Park Drill
On April 26, 2017, the Wyandanch and Deer Park Fire Park’s EMS monitored the firefighters through multiple burn rev- Fire News photos by BTFirePhoto.com Departments did a joint burn drill at Deer Park’s Training Center. olutions. Deer Park Juniors changed out the bottles during the drill and Deer
Great Neck’s Bleck Remembered
Nearly eight months after the passing of Great Neck Vigilant Engine, Hook, and Ladder Company President Kenneth Bleck a dedication ceremony was held in his honor on May 7, 2017. The recently put-intoservice Ambulance 831 was dedicated in Bleck’s name. Bleck passed away on September 15, 2016, after a battle with cancer, contracted as a result of his work at Ground Zero. Bleck was a 24-year member of the department, and an officer for over 20 years. He was named an honorary Chief this past August, and was well known for being the owner of Nu-Clear Cleaners in Great Neck. The dedication ceremony was held inside Grace Avenue Park in front
of a memorial dedicated to Jonathan Lee Ielpi, who was a Great Neck Vigilant Fire Chief and member of FDNY Squad 288 who was killed in the September 11 attacks. Aside from the dedication of the ambulance, a nameplate bearing Bleck’s name was added to the memorial wall inside the park. On hand for the ceremony was Bleck’s wife Linda, and his two daughters Jamie and Carrie. Also present was a strong turnout from the Great Neck Vigilant Fire Company and surrounding departments. - Fire News photos by K2M Photography.com
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Steinwall Sworn for 2nd Term as Chief Thomas O. Steinwall was sworn in for his second term as Chief of the Levittown Fire Department with his family at his side at a recent ceremony. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
Levittown Chiefs Installed The Deputy Chiefs of the Levittown Fire Department were installed at a recent ceremony (Left to right): 1st Deputy Steven Hervan, 2nd Deputy Alfred Williams and 3rd Deputy Michael Herold. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
CI Ambulance at Press Conference Members of the Central Islip Ambulance Corps at a press conference at the Central Islip courthouse. Matt Youngs, Brenda Roth, Alexa Bracco, Dyan Bottego, Sammy Gangi. - Fire News photo by Joe Turner
Looking Back The Melville House on Ruland Road in 1977. Pictured in the bucket of the old 2-5-1 Hi-Ranger Snorkel truck are Firefighter Joel DiMaggio, left, and Chief Al Silvestri, right. Both are still active members of the Melville Fire Department. - Fire News photo from the Steve Silverman Archives
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Hewlett Celebrates 125 Years of Service The Hewlett Fire Department is proud to celebrate 125 years of service to their community. Congratulations to the chiefs, officers and members of the Hewlett Fire Department. - Fire News photos by Russell Curley
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Westhampton Bch. Auxiliary Celebrates The Westhampton Beach Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary celebrated their 13th year of service with dinner at Jerry and The Mermaids in Riverhead on April 26, 2017. (Pictured): Susan Balogh, Kim Marks, Tara Kappel, Jackie Angus, Erica Olsen, Kerry Everhart, ex-Chief Shawn Ethier, Carol Del Vecchio, Cody Hoyle, Joy Makarewicz, Ilona Lowenthal, Meena Chockalingam, Pat Gonce and Felicia Williford. - Fire News photo by Cody Hoyle
Scouts Tour West Hempstead On the evening of April 13, 2017, members of the West Hempstead Fire Department gave a fire prevention talk and tour of the fire house to some young scouts. Firefighter Vincent DiGiovanni is shown in the picture with the scouts. - Fire News photo by Bill D’Alessandro
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Up Close & Personal
(Left to right): Wantagh 1st Assistant Chief Joe Gross, Chief James Bloomfield and 2nd Assistant Ken Kelly at a recent fire. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
Chief of the Medford Fire Department Anthony Maneri operating during a recent commercial structure fire. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
The chiefs of the Lynbrook Fire Department at the Nassau County 4th Battalion Fundraiser on March 19, 2017. (Left to right): Chief of Department Chavette, Second Assistant Chief Abrams, Third Assistant Chief Pearsall, and First Assistant Chief Lengel. - Fire News photo by K2M Photography
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2 Injured in N. Babylon Head-on Just before midnight on May 7, 2017, the West Babylon Fire Department responded to a head-on collision on Belmont Avenue near Roland Place. Two SUVs collided, trapping the driver of one. The crew from Heavy Rescue 1-9-15 put spreaders and cutters into operation and extricated the driver in about 15 minutes. The crew from Engine 1-9-6 had a precautionary line stretched. Both drivers were injured and transported to Good Samaritan Hospital with non-life threatening injuries. First Assistant Chief Schumann was in charge of the scene. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
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Roosevelt MVA
On April 6, 2017, the Roosevelt Fire Department was dispatched to arrival. The driver was transported by Roosevelt Ambulance 736 to an MVA with fire at the intersection of Pennsylvania and West an area hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Units were Greenwich Avenues. When firefighters arrived on scene they were under the command of Roosevelt Chief of Department Fennell. - Fire News photo by K2M Photography.com met with a single-car accident with one aided. The vehicle involved had caught fire but the fire was out upon the fire department’s
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Sunken Meadow Overturn Jericho Turnpike Head-on
The Commack Fire Department, Commack Volunteer Ambulance and New York State Police responded to an overturned auto on the southbound Sunken Meadow State Parkway just north of Jericho Turnpike on February 10, 2017. The driver of the vehicle suffered minor injuries. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
On March 29, 2017, the Hicksville Fire Department responded to an MVA with two people trapped on Jerusalem Avenue. Arriving units were able to get the doors open without using tools and removed the two. Two people in the van refused medical attention at the scene. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
Holbrook Car vs. Pole
On the Roof in Holbrook
On March 15, 2017, the Holbrook Fire Department was activated for an MVA on Furrows Road, a reported car into a utility pole. Chief 3-15-31 advised incoming units the driver was self extricated. Rescue 7 secured the vehicle and the driver was transported to a nearby medical facility with minor injuries via a Holbrook Ambulance. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Late on February 20, 2017, the Holbrook Fire Department was activated for an MVA with an overturn on Lincoln Avenue. Commanding Chief Chris Heinssen advised incoming units the driver of the vehicle was self extricated. Engine 4 secured the vehicle and Suffolk County Police ESU up-righted the car. The driver was transported to a nearby hospital for his injuries via a Holbrook Ambulance. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Smithtown Head-on
Massapequa MVA
The Suffolk Police and Smithtown Fire Department responded to an accident on West Jericho Turnpike in Smithtown on February 16, 2017. Two vehicles collided head-on, trapping one occupant. Firefighters and police used hydraulic equipment to extricate a female in 20 minutes. Smithtown Fire Department ambulances transported the injured to Stony Brook University and Saint Catherine’s hospitals suffering various injuries. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
The Massapequa Fire Department and Nassau County Police responded to a two-vehicle accident at East Hemlock Street and Carmans Road on March 16, 2017. An SUV and a sedan collided causing the SUV to roll onto its roof. Engine 6315 and Ambulance 6310 and Nassau County Police Ambulance responded. The driver of the SUV was injured and taken to a local hospital with minor injuries; the other driver was uninjured. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
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Glenwood 2-Alarmer
The Glenwood Fire Department was dispatched to a reported garage fire on Michaels Lane in Glen Head early on April 21, 2017. Firefighters were met with heavy fire showing from a garage attached to a twostory private dwelling. A second alarm was called moments later. Two handlines were put into operation, as the fire extended to the second floor. Firefighters kept the fire to the exposure two side and kept it from extending. Mutual aid came from Roslyn, Sea Cliff, East Norwich and Locust Valley, among others. All occupants safely made it out of the home. The cause of the fire was under investigation. - Fire News photos by K2M Photography.com
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New York State Volunteer Firefighters to Gather for Training, Networking Volunteer fire service leaders from across New York State will join nationally recognized presenters for a weekend of training, networking and fun August 9 to 12, 2017, at the 145th annual Firemen’s Association of the State of New York (FASNY) Convention in Syracuse, New York. For nearly a century and a half, the FASNY Convention has been the signature gathering of the 45,000-member organization. The 2017 edition will include the Fourth Annual FASNY Fallen Firefighters Golf Tournament, Eighth Annual Training Series and the Heroes Award Ceremony sponsored by VFIS. Training series presenters come from across the country to share critical information with volunteer first responders. This year, national instructor and author Christopher J. Naum will present “Operational Excellence on the Evolving Fireground,” which covers research-based tactics for fighting fires in modern buildings. “Volunteer Fire 2025” offers insights into the fire organizations of the future from Michael Dallessandro, a longtime leadership training consultant to volunteer and combination departments. Distinguished Chiefs John Salka and Ed Buchanan will address the new dangers of fire behavior in “Modern Firefighting ... What Works for You?” FASNY Secretary John S. D’Alessandro will monitor what promises to be an active discussion about different viewpoints that have emerged from recent research. In addition, the “Modern House Fires: Critical Skills for the Engine Company” hands-on training session will break down nozzle options, techniques and strategies using simulated fire attacks. The Holiday Inn Syracuse/Liverpool hosts the event, which is themed “Building a Healthier, Stronger and Safer Volunteer Fire Service.” Firefighter health is an ongoing priority for FASNY, which recently launched a campaign to increase awareness of cancer in the fire service. The organization is leading advocacy efforts to get presumptive cancer coverage for volunteer firefighters in New York state. Visit www.fasny.com/fightcancer to learn more. Stay up to date on important issues like these, receive essential training and enjoy a few days of fire service camaraderie this summer at the FASNY Convention in Syracuse. Find the full schedule and register at www.fasny.com/convention
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West Hempstead Chiefs Honored
On February 25, 2017, Senator Todd Kaminsky attended the West Hempstead Fire Department’s installation dinner at the Sand Castle. Senator Kaminsky issued proclamations to ex-Chief and guest of honor Peter A. Lilli and incoming Chief Michael Vogt, as well as to recipients of the Years of Service Award: Laurence Loeffler (20 years); ex-Chief Gabe Scognamiglio (25 years); ex-Chief Kenneth Brohm (30 years); ex-
Chief William D’Alessandro (40 years); and ex-Chief Ralph A. Nicholes (45 years). (Left to right): Legislature Vincent Muscarella; Legislator Laura Schaefer; ex-Chief Kenneth Brohm; ex-Chief William D’Alessandro; ex-Chief Peter Lilli, Guest of Honor; incoming Chief Michael Vogt; Senator Todd Kaminsky; Assemblyman Edward Ra; and Assemblyman Brian Curran. - Fire News photo provided
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Up Close & Personal The chiefs of the Rockville Centre Fire Department at the Nassau County 4th Battalion Fundraiser on March 19, 2017. (Left to right): First Assistant Chief Cook, Chief of Department Seaman, and Second Assistant Chief Burel. - Fire News photo by K2M Photography
Farmingville Officers 2017
Firefighter John Kern from the Farmingville Fire Department at a recent structure fire. - Fire News photo by Amanda Coffey
Farmingville Fire Department Ladder and Rescue Company 1 Officers for 2017 are (left to right): Captain Kevin Blaskopf, Lieutenant Alex Calas, Lieutenant and ex-Chief Ralph Gloria and Lieutenant Dan Coffey. - Fire News photo by Amanda Coffey
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Santino Recognizes West Hempstead Honorees
Hempstead Town Supervisor Anthony J. Santino (second right) pre- Installation Dinner at the Sand Castle in Franklin Square. Also sented Town of Hempstead Citations to honorees Mike J. Vogt attending were Nassau County Legislator Vincent Muscarella and (Chief of Department) and Peter A. Lilli (2nd Assistant Chief) dur- New York State Assemblyman Edward Ra. - Fire News photo provided ing the West Hempstead Fire Department’s 92nd Annual
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Westbury Warehouse Fire
The Westbury Fire Department responded to a building fire on April 23, 2017. A heavy smoke condition was showing on arrival at the two-story warehouse on Hopper Street. Companies made their way inside to extinguish the fire and extensive overhaul/ventilation was required. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com and K2MPhotography.com
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Montauk St. Patrick’s Day Parade. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
Rockville Centre St. Patrick’s Day Parade - Fire News photo by Steve Takacs
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Northport Structure Fire On May 6, 2017, the Northport Fire Department responded to a fire on Mariner’s Lane. Firefighters, under the command of Chief Brad Wine and 2nd Assistant Chief Dennis Sheridan, responded to twostory, single-family dwelling with fire in the basement, which quickly travelled to the upper floors. Mutual aid came from East Northport, Centerport, Greenlawn and Kings Park. Firefighters had the fire under control and completely extinguished in under an hour. One firefighter was transported to Huntington Hospital for evaluation and one firefighter was treated on scene with a minor injury. - Fire News photo courtesy of the Northport FD
Smokey A/C in Melville The Melville Fire Department responded to reports of an occupied house filling up with smoke on April 17, 2017. Crews were under the command of Second Assistant Chief David Kaplan. Firefighters investigated a smoke odor and haze, and found the source was from a malfunctioning second-floor central air conditioning unit. - Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
East Meadow Porch Fire Early on May 11, 2017, the East Meadow Fire Department was dispatched for a deck fire on Chambers Avenue. Firefighters were met with a confirmed deck fire at the rear of the home. North Bellmore was called as the FAST. East Meadow Engine 611 stretched two lines and within 25 minutes had the scene under control. Units were under the command of East Meadow Chief of Department Lennon. - Fire News photo by K2M Photography.com
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East Rockaway Honors Chris Shelton
On April 2, 2017, the East Rockaway Fire Department honored exChief Chris Shelton for his 50 years of service to the department and to the community. Chris joined the department in 1967 and quickly moved up through the ranks of Vigilant Engine Company. Chris served as Chief of Department in 1987-1988. Ex-Chief Shelton also is involved in the Nassau County Vocational and Education Board, where he oversees the operations of the Nassau County Fire Academy, the EMS Academy and other schools. In his early years, Chris worked as a sheet metal worker in Union Local 28. In 1973, he was appointed to the FDNY where he rose to the rank of Lieutenant. At one point, Chris was assigned to the Manhattan District Attorney’s Homicide Squad. Chris retired out of Ladder 124 in Bushwick. After retiring from the FDNY, Chris returned to college and graduated from Adelphi University, and then enrolled in Touro Law School. He graduated from Touro in 2001. Whether it is the fire service, his church, the veteran’s organization, youth sports, or local and county political organizations, Chris Shelton is a name that everyone knows. He celebrates his 40th wedding anniversary with his wife Blanche and their three sons, Erik, Matthew and Bradley. It was obvious at the ceremony how much Chris is loved by his three daughtes’-in-law and four wonderful grandchildren, Maxine, Marysia, Ryan and Liam. Congratulations to Chris Shelton as he joins the ranks of Honorary Commissioner of the East Rockaway Fire Department. Thank you for continuing to set the bar high for all of us to follow. -Fire News photos by Jennifer Mercurio - www.lastingimpressionsstudio.net
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Licata Honored in Farmingville
On April 29, 2017, at the Farmingville Fire Department installation dinner Chief Allen Licata was recognized as outgoing Chief and for his many years of service and dedication to the department. - Fire News photos by Amanda Coffey
Bethpage House Fire Stopped
Early on April 9, 2017, the Bethpage Fire Department was alerted for a house fire in the vicinity of North Kentucky Avenue and Baldwin Drive. Crews arrived to heavy fire in the rear of the house at the end of a dead-end block. Engine 9055 put two lines into operation. The fire extended up the rear of the house into the second floor and attic, and crews vented and laddered the house. All
searches were negative and a large birdcage was removed with the birds unharmed. The fire was brought under control in about 40 minutes. Mutual aid came from Farmingdale, South Farmingdale and Levittown. Chief of Department DeBobes was in charge of the scene. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
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Water Drill in Southampton The Southampton Fire Department, assisted by units and members from Bridgehampton, Sag Harbor, North Sea and Hampton Bays, held a multiagency water drill on Main Street in Southampton on April 17, 2017. The drill was inspired in part by the recent fire at the Sag Harbor Cinema on Sag Harbor’s Main Street, and was designed to test the water supply and capacity of local hydrants, Members of the Suffolk County Water Authority were also on scene to answer questions, and provide any assistance if needed. - Fire News photos by Michael Heller
MCI Drill at Stony Brook
Stony Brook University Hospital conducted a morning long MCI practice event on April 18, 2017, using the Setauket Fire Department’s Nicolls Road station as the site of the incident. The event included injuries from a truck into a crowd, plus people shot. Ambulances from as far as Riverhead and New Hyde Park partici-
pated. Since the scenario was portrayed as happening on the campus, the Stony Brook University and Ambulance Corps were the lead agencies. The main purpose of the event was to exercise the hospital’s emergency room. - Fire News photos by Robert O’Rourk
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Pt. Lookout-Lido Installation 2017 On May 5, 2017, the Point Lookout-Lido Fire Department held their annual installation dinner of officers and chiefs. The event was held at the Sands on Atlantic Beach. Leading the department will be Chief of Department Brian Guerin followed by First Assistant Chief Jared Siegelman and Second Assistant Chief James Guerin. - Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com
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Oceanside Open House
On April 30, 2017, the Oceanside Fire Department held their annual open house event at headquarters. The event is held to recruit new members to the department. Various demonstrations were held throughout the day, apparatus was on display, and members from each company were on hand to talk to prospective members. - Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com
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Plainview Installation 2017
The Plainview Fire Department held its 90th annual Installation Dinner on March 18, 2017, at the Chateau Briand. Installed were chiefs, commissioners and officers of the department for the ensuing year. Also honored was ex-Chief Michael Sisti for 50 years of service. (Above) Board of Fire Commissioners congratulate Chief Alfred Bassetta (left to right): Secretary Gerard Petti, 2nd Vice Chairman Fred Shoppmann, Chairman Frank Rosato, Chief Alfred Bassetta, Treasurer Spencer Adelberg, 1st Vice Chairman Martin Pollack. (Left) Chiefs of the Plainview Fire Department for 2017 (left to right): 1st Deputy Chief Robert Salerno, Chief of Department Alfred Bassetta, 2nd Deputy Chief Gregory Kies. (Bottom, left) 50-year honoree ex chief Michael Sisti is congratulated by his son in law Terryville Chief of Department Brendan Pilkington. (Bottom, right) Presenting an award to 50 year honoree ex chief Michael Sisti (left to right): Chief Alfred Bassetta, ex-Chief and Mrs. Michael Sisti, Chaiman Frank Rosato. - Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
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Wantagh House Fire
Home Destroyed in Lynbrook
Early on May 3, 2017, the Wantagh Fire Department responded to a house fire on Seaman’s Neck Road in Wantagh. Second Assistant Chief Ken Kelly arrived to fire coming out two sides and the roof of the house. Chief Kelly and ex-Captain Rick Sculco, Jr., commenced an interior search of the home. First Assistant Chief Joe Gross III arrived and assumed command while Chief Kelly coordinated an interior attack and search for possible people still inside. Crews stretched lines and laddered the roof. Low water pressure required Engine 7 to secure a water supply from a second hydrant. Companies from Levittown and Massapequa also responded to the scene. EMS Rescues 1 thru 5 were on scene, as well as Rehab 6922 all under the command of EMS Captain Lincke. The fire was declared under control in approximately 35 minutes. Several cats were found dead in the home. Bellmore, Merrick and North Bellmore provided coverage. The Nassau County Fire Marshal and Nassau County Police Arson/Bomb Squad responded to investigate. - Fire News story by Kevin Regan, PIO; photo by K2M Photography.com
A Lynbrook home was destroyed by a raging fire on April 28, 2017, on Davison Avenue. Firefighters were called to the scene directly across from the Davison Elementary School, and found the home engulfed in flame. Fire departments from several surrounding communities were called to assist at the scene. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Roosevelt House Fire The Roosevelt Fire Department responded to the report of a house fire on Hudson Avenue on May 1, 2017. Firefighters found a heavy smoke condition and flames coming from a rear room on arrival. Handlines were stretched while truck companies searched and vented. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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FRES Command Van Dedication and Specs On April 28, 2017, the West Sayville Fire Department hosted a dedication ceremony for the new Suffolk County FRES Mobile Command Unit (MCU-1) to ex-Chief Warren Horst. The state-of-the-art mobile command unit features two antenna masts, a full-spectrum digital P25 compliant radio, a bump-out space, an Internet source, a computer network, a local UHF repeater, and a broadband microwave receiver with localized activation, among many other features. The availability of the unit is outlined in a non-emergency request procedure as stated on the SCFRES web page. Suffolk chiefs can build a request for the unit into an automatic response category of their County procedure page, or request it through SCFRES. The communication staff have an operational field-trained staff member on duty 24/7. - SCFRES van info provided by Joel Vetter, Chief of Support Services; photos by Tom Rinelli
Lupinacci, Raia at Cold Spring Installation
Assemblyman Chad A. Lupinacci and Town Clerk Jo-Ann Raia recently joined the Cold Spring Harbor Fire Department for their 2017 installation of officers. Lupinacci offered remarks at the gathering and awarded the installed officers with New York State Assembly Citations for their service to the community. - Fire News photo provided
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MCI Drill in Port Washington On April 30, 2017, the Port Washington Fire Department, in conjunction with the Long Island Rail Road, ran a full-scale exercise at the Port Washington train station. In addition to the Port Washington Fire Department, the Port Washington Police Department and MTA PD, numerous other local fire departments and ambulance companies participated in the drill. - Fire News photos by OverTheEdgePhotography.com and K2MPhotography.com
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East Northport Firefighters and Veterans Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta attended the April board meeting of the East Northport Fire Department to recognize members of the department who have served in the military. Pictured at the board meeting are (left to right, rear row): First Assistant Chief Dan Flanagan, Firefighter Michael Rippel, EMT Michael Isaacs, FP Tom Noonan, Firefighter/EMT, exRescue Captain Robert Sagistano, Chief Dan Heffernan, FP Charles Andreas, ex-Captain Roger Putnam, Senior ex-Chief Ken Kutner, Firefighter Richard Meissner, and Second Assistant Chief Tom Bourne. (Front row, left to right): Legislator Robert Trotta, ex-Chief Tom Augusta, ex-Chief Ken Hahn and ex-Chief William O’Loughlin. Missing from the photo is Firefighter Ken Demling, who was unable to attend the meeting. - Fire News photo supplied
Father and Sons Honorary Chief Walter Rotermund (center), ex-Captain Eric Rotermund (right) and Firefighter Henry Rotermund (left) are all members of the Medford Fire Department’s Headquarter Company. - Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
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Nassau & Suffolk Counties Conduct RecruitNY Weekend Activities
Long Island volunteer firefighters, the Firemen’s Association of the State of New York (FASNY), fire officers, public safety officials, Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano, and other elected officials clanged the bell for new recruits on April 28, 2017, at the Nassau County Firefighters Museum and Education Center on Museum Row in Garden City. FASNY 1st Vice-President Steven Klein and FASNY immediate past-President Robert McConville kicked off the event which included firefighters in full dress uniform, as well as fire trucks and apparatus from area departments. Over the last few years, due to various factors including family and financial responsibilities, the economy, and current volunteers aging, retiring, or moving out of state, there has been a shortage of volunteers coming forward. Nassau County Fire Department RecruitNY 2017 participants included: East Rockaway, Freeport, Garden City Park, Long Beach, North Bellmore, North Merrick, Oceanside, South Farmingdale, Syosset, Woodmere. Suffolk County participants included: Bay Shore, Center Moriches, Central Islip, Coram, Dix Hills, Great River, Halesite, Huntington, Lindenhurst, Mount Sinai, Quogue, Sound Beach, Southampton, Wading River, Westhampton Beach. The volunteer fire service is an integral part of both life and the economy in New York State. In 2016, FASNY released an economic impact report, which quantifies the value of the volunteer fire service and its associated tax savings throughout the state. The report concluded that the annual cost of a replacement, all-paid fire service would be $3.87 billion. Furthermore, property taxes in New York State would rise by an estimated average of 26.5 percent. - Fire News photos by Jack Healy
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Suffolk County Accelerant Detection Canine Retires
At the end of June, after five years of service to the residents of Suffolk County, Accelerant Detection K-9 Tiana will join the ranks of retirees from the Suffolk County Department of Fire Rescue and Emergency Services. Tiana has assisted various law enforcement agencies with arson investigations throughout Suffolk County since 2012. In February of 2015, Tiana and Handler FM Don Lynch were requested by the ATF for National Response Team activation to a fire in Schenectady, NY. That fire was in an old Vaudeville hotel that ended up taking the lives of five people and took 10 days to investigate. In December of that same year, both Suffolk County K9 teams, K9 Tiana and recently departed K9 Jul, were requested to NYC to assist with a series of arson fires in the Forest Hills
section of Queens. That investigation lasted four days. In 2016 during recertification at NCETR in Huntsville Alabama, after being tested against every other ATF Accelerant Detection Canine from across the nation, K9 Tiana was awarded the title of 2016 Top Dog. In 2016 A milestone was achieved with the 25th anniversary of the Accelerant Detection Canine Program in Suffolk County. This is one of the longest running relationships in the country between the county and the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives. Retiring a dog of this caliber is difficult but with her handler Suffolk County Fire Marshal Don Lynch being promoted to Chief County Fire Marshal, it was inevitable. As a valuable worker and friend Tiana will be sorely missed. - Fire News story and photos courtesy of CFM Dr. Donald G. Lynch
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Central Islip Installation 2017 Central Islip Fire Department Installation featured awarding pastChief Neil Finnin for his 60 years of service. Chief Finnin served as Chief from 1980 to 1982 and also served as a member of the Board of Fire Commissioners for 29 years. He was presented with an array of proclamations and awards for his fine example of community service and was recognized, as well, for his continuing participation in all aspects of current department activities. (Top): CIFD past-Chief Neil Finnin and his wife Pat are pictured with members of Hook and Ladder Company #1. Chief Finnin has served the H&L Company continuously since 1957. (Left): Finnin and his wife Pat are flanked by 3rd Assistant Chief Mike Zaleski, 2nd Assistant Chief Chris Portelli, Chief of Department Bob McGee and 1st Assistant Chief Patrick Murphy.
(Right): 3rd Assistant Chief Mike Zaleski and his wife Krissy, 2nd Assistant Chief Chris Portelli and his wife Melanie, and 1st Assistant Chief Patrick Murphy and his wife Nicole (left to right) are pictured as each is sworn in to their respective offices.
(Left): Central Islip Fire Department Chief Robert McGee is shown with his wife Sue and their family as he takes the oath of office at the department’s annual installation on March 25, 2017. - Fire News photos by Charles A. Murphy, CIFD
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Fourth Battalion Officials Sworn At the annual meeting of the Fourth Battalion Fire District, which encompasses the East Rockaway, Lakeview, Lynbrook, Malverne, and Rockville Centre Fire Departments, the newly elected officers for the coming year were sworn in. (Left): East Rockaway ex-Chief John VanHouten, a former Nassau County Fire Commission Chairman, left, swears in, (left to right): Chairman John Hennig, Rockville Centre FD; Vice-Chairman Robert Klose, East Rockaway FD; Secretary John O’Reilly, Lynbrook FD; and Treasurer Mark Murray, Rockville Centre FD.
The newly elected delegates to the Fourth Battalion, and elected by their departments for a three-year term, were also sworn in. (Right): ex-Chief John VanHouton, East Rockaway FD, swears in, (left to right): ex-Chief Mark Murry, RVCFD; ex-Chief Dan Morgan, Malverne FD; ex-Chief Jim Henshaw, ERFD; ex-Chief Kevin Bien, Lynbrook FD; and ex-Chief Mike Joyce, Lakeview FD. - Fire News photos by Steve Grogan
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Centerport 119th Installation of Officers
The Centerport Fire Department installed their officers for 2017 at their 119th Annual Installation Dinner held at the Stonebridge Country Club in Smithtown. Following the salute to the flag, Deputy Chief Chaplain Paul Heglund delivered the invocation. The new chief officers installed are Chief of Department Thomas Boyd, First Assistant Chief Richard Miltner and Second Assistant Chief Andrew Heglund. The Deputy Chiefs are Chaplain Paul Heglund, Medical Dr. Jack Geffken and PIO/Photographer Steve Silverman. The company officers installed are as follows: Engine Company No. 1: Captain Christopher Cunningham, First Lieutenant Daniel Gunther and Second Lieutenant Cary Smolcnop. Engine Company No. 2: Captain John Stevenson and Lieutenant Andrew Stevenson. Eagle Truck Company: Captain Kyle McLaughlin, First Lieutenant A.J. Jensen and Second Lieutenant Nicholas Feeley. Fire Police: Captain Elias Felluss. Rescue Squad: Captain Walter Lawrence and First Lieutenant Michael Gunther. Water Rescue Squad: Coordinators James Feeley and Joseph Morency. Outgoing Chief Brian Mark was recognized for his dedicated service as Chief from 2015-2016 and received several awards. The Harry Burr Memorial Award for answering the most alarms was presented to Walter Lawrence. Rescue and Fire Response Awards were presented to James Feeley and Stephen Peters. The Rescue Response Award went to David McGovern. Fire Response Awards were presented to Robert Ciafardoni, Brian Ciafardoni, Alexander Reilly, Elias Felluss, Paul Heglund and Nicholas Malico. The Company Member of the Year Awards were as follows. Rescue Squad: Robert Bentivegna. Eagle Truck: Robert Bentivegna. Engine 1: Nicholas Malico. Engine 2: Andrew Heglund. Fire Police: John Knoph. - Fire News photos by Steve Silverman
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End of an Era in Patchogue It was an end of an era, as the Patchogue Van Guard 40 Thieves closed down the Robert Cushing Memorial Track on Rider Avenue. The memories created at the track will last a lifetime. Special thanks to the Hagerman Gamblers for bringing their B Truck for one more trip down the track, and to North Bellmore, Farmingville and Selden. And thank you to all the 40 Thieves Alumni and family members who came down to the track for one more celebration there. - Fire News photos by Jim Dunn, story by Timmy Bigotti
Commack Ice Hockey Champs The Commack Fire Department Ice Hockey Team recently won the Division Championship in the Midnight Hockey League. After a tough season playing many challenging teams, their hard work brought them to the championship game where they were victorious. Congratulations to the entire team from Fire News! - Fire News photo by Emily Bender
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Patchogue FD Members Honored On April 28, 2017, members of the Patchogue Fire Department were honored at the Patchogue-Medford School District’s Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. Congratulations to all who were honored. Fire News would like to congratulate the Reilly family on the posthumous induction of their son Michael Reilly, who was killed in the Line of Duty while responding to a call as an EMT. Michael also received the Coast Guard Meritorious Service Medal for his actions. Also honored posthumously was Calvin ‘Jake’ Parris of the Patchogue Van Guard Guard Hose Company. Jake was an influential man whose work ethic, unselfish way and keen sense of humor is remembered today by the Van Guard Hose Company and the people of Patchogue. The Patchogue FD Firematic Drill Team —The Forty Thieves — were honored for their past commitment and dedication to the world of firematic racing, which started for them in 1914. Some of the highlights of the teams career from 1978-1992 are: 75 first- place finishes and 28 second place finishes in a series of 144 motorized drills; 27 consecutive Tournament victories, 1981-84; 39 times set NYS records, 1981-84; Seven NYS Championships. “On the line! Number one on your program! The Forty Thieves.from Patchogue!” -Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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Obituary
Gordon Heights Mourns Robert Wilson On May 1, 2017, the Gordon Heights Fire Department celebrated the life of ex-Chief Robert George Wilson. Robert was an analytical chemist at Brookhaven National Laboratory for 32 years. He joined the newly created Gordon Heights Fire Department in 1947 and rose to the rank of Chief. He later served as the Captain of the department’s Fire Police company until 2007. Ex-Chief Robert Wilson served the community of Gordon Heights for over 60 years and recently became the first Life Member of the Gordon Heights Fire Department. Robert was one of the original organizers of the Brookhaven Town Fire Museum. Throughout his life, Robert conducted himself with class and did it all by setting the example for all of us to follow. May he rest in peace as he guides us from the floor above. -Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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Huntington Manor 114th Installation of Officers The Huntington Manor Fire Department recently held their 114th Annual Installation Dinner at Oheka Castle in Huntington where the new officers for 2017 were installed and awards presented. Following the presentation of colors by the Huntington Manor Honor Guard, Chaplain Deacon Edward Billia delivered the invocation and prayer for departed members. The following officers were installed by the Board of Fire Commissioners: Department Officers: Chief Michael DePasquale, First Assistant Chief Jon Hoffmann, Second Assistant Chief Chuck Brady, Third Assistant Chief James Glidden. Corresponding Secretary Lisa Fusaro, Recording Secretary Robert Eng, Treasurer Vincent Bifano, Financial Secretary John Metz, Chaplain Dr. Deacon Edward Billia, Associate Chaplain Thomas Petriano. Hook and Ladder Company: Captain Carl Schramm, First Lieutenant Scott Cloonan, Second Lieutenant Ryan Pretty, Secretary Karl McGinn, Treasurer Vito Reciniello, Financial Secretary Brian Milliken. Hose Company No. 1: Captain Brian Christen; First Lieutenant Michael Smith; Second Lieutenant Michael Colonna; Secretary Lisa Fusaro; Treasurer John Rubcewich, Jr.; Financial Secretary Robert Tellefsen. Fire Police: Captain Karen Blackburn, Lieutenant Edward Billia. Ex-Chief Alan Bayley was recognized for his 70 years of dedicated service by the Board of Fire Commissioners. Awards were presented to outgoing Chief Frank McQuade recognizing his dedicated service as Chief from 2015-2016. The Hook and Ladder Company presented their Firefighter of the Year Award to ex-Captain Jim Canty and the Probationary Firefighter of Year Award to Jim Dowling. The Hose Company presented their Firefighter of the Year Award to Mike Booher. The Richard Holst Inspirational Award was presented to Assistant Chief Chuck Brady. The award is presented in the memory of exCaptain and Chaplain Richard Holst, who died in the Line of Duty in 2009. The Peter A. Nelson Memorial Firefighter of the Year Award was presented to Luke Bartolomeo. This award is presented in the memory of Huntington Manor Chief and FDNY Firefighter Peter Nelson who was killed at the World Trade Center on 9/11. Unit Award Citations were presented to members for their heroic actions in rescuing a trapped victim from a working house fire in May 2016. Ex-Captain Travis Mortensen, Michael Ball, Alex Demarest, Paul Draser, John Glidden IV, and Assistant Chief Jon Hoffmann all received commendations. Firefighter Michael Ball received a Medal of Valor for his lifesaving efforts in reviving a 12-year-old boy who stopped breathing in March 2016. Working together with Tyler Gibbs of the Huntington Community First Aid Squad, the boy was successfully revived. - Fire News photos by Steve Silverman
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Elmont’s Chiefs for 2017
On April 29, 2017, the chiefs of the Elmont Fire Department for 2017 - 2018 officially moved into their new positions. Each chief signed off the air with their outgoing unit number and then signed back on with their new unit number. The chiefs for 2017 are Chief of Department Ronald Conti, 1st Assistant Chief Joseph Luckman,
2nd Assistant Chief Robert Falco, and 3rd Assistant Chief Robert Schriefer. The newly elected 3rd Assistant Chief was also given his new chief’s vehicle — a 2017 Chevy Silverado. The outgoing Chief of Department is Edward Dailey. The best of luck to the four new chiefs. - Fire News photo by K2M Photography.com
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Levittown Officers Installed The line officers, department officers and Ladies Auxiliary officers of the Levittown Fire Department were installed at a recent ceremony. - Fire News photos by Kevin Imm
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Levittown’s Sager Honored for 55 Years
Ex-Chief John Sager of the Levittown Fire Department was honored for his 55 years of active service to the Levittown Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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MOTLEY CREWS OF THE MONTH
Members of the Lindenhurst Fire Department Liberty Hose Company 1, congratulate Second Lieutenant John Rizos, Jr. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
St. James Fire Department EMS. - Fire News photo by Dennis Whittam
Mineola Company 1. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
Terryville Fire Department at the Suffolk County Fire Academy. - Fire News photo by Dennis Whittam
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MOTLEY CREWS OF THE MONTH
Firefighters from the East Northport Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
The Lynbrook Fire Department acted as the FAST Team at an East Rockaway house fire. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
The crew from the Setauket Fire Department at a house fire on Kejaro Court in Centereach. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
The Setauket Fire Department EMS crew at an MCI drill at Stony Brook University Medical Center: Robert O’Rourk, Carl Campolittano, Amanda Kuzma, Tom Gerry and Mark Miller. - Fire News photo by Robert O’Rourk
The Hewlett Fire Department’s (left to right): Anthony Alfieri, Adam Dressler, Chris Legrow, Ryan Bevilaqua, William Brower and Sal Bosco. - Provided by Lt. Chris Legrow
Members of the Selden EMS team. - Fire News photo by Jim Dunn
Kings Park Fire Police keeping the scene safe in King Park. - Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
Members of the Nesconset Fire Department after operating at a car fire on April 15, 2017. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
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Up Close & Personal
The chiefs of the Malverne Fire Department at the Nassau County 4th Battalion Fundraiser on March 19, 2017. (Left to right): Chief Gildea, Chief Lang and Chief Bopp. - Fire News photo by K2M Photography
Saint James Firefighter Kayla Oelschlager next to her dad’s memorial artwork on Saint James Ladder 4-3-7 after a fire call on April 4, 2017. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
Centereach Chief of Department Robert Corley operates as incident commander at a working house fire on Kejaro Court in Centereach. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
Selden ex-Chief Michael Matteo at a recent structure fire. - Fire News photo by Amanda Coffey
Farmingville Assistant Chief Gus Grammenos and Engine Co 2 member Juan Carlos. - Fire News photo by Amanda Coffey
Chiefs of the East Meadow Fire Department on the scene of a fire on Chambers Avenue on the May 11, 2017. - Fire News photo by K2M Photography.com
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What’s a Parade Without a Fire Truck? On April 16, 2017, the Village of Garden City hosted a custom/classic car show and parade. - Fire News photos by Bill D’Alessandro and Steve Takacs
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LIBERTY ART WORKS BRONZE AXE PRESENTED TO PRESIDENT TRUMP The I-85 Bridge First Responders of the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department presented President Trump with a custom solid bronze fire ax. The Atlanta Fire Department commissioned the custom ax with Liberty Art Works, Inc. a company based in St. Louis, Missouri. Liberty Art Works, Inc., is a firefighter-owned and -operated business with over 40-years experience creating high quality bronze custom awards and monuments to honor the "Bravest and Finest" fire, police, EMS and military personnel. Being comprised of Firefighters, Liberty Art Works understands the importance of what their bronze sculptures represent and delivers the highest quality in each hand-finished piece.
President Trump recognized this quality saying it was beautiful and he was appreciative of the ax. He then took time to personally sit with the First Responders recognizing their bravery and pledging the full support of his administration to all First Responders. Liberty Art Works takes great pride that all their items are designed, manufactured and assembled in the USA. To learn more about t h e i r c o m p l e t e b r o n z e c o l l e c t io n , p l e a s e v i s i t www.LibertyArtWorks.com o r c a l l 8 8 8 -4 11 -7 7 4 4 t o receive a catalog.
RECORD ATTENDANCE ACHIEVED AT FDIC INTERNATIONAL 2017 The Fire Department Instructors Conference International (FDIC International) announced a record-breaking attendance of nearly 34,000 attendees from 58 countries at its 90th annual training conference and expo, held at the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, IN April 24-29, 2017. The world’s largest and most comprehensive annual firefighter training and exposition event, FDIC International included Classroom Sessions, Pre-Conference Workshops, Hands-On Training Evolutions, networking events, a conference program with more than 300 speakers, and an exhibition showcasing cutting-edge products and services from nearly 800 companies. “FDIC International 2017 was a huge achievement for PennWell and the fire service. Its continued growth reflects its reputation for delivering the most advanced training and education from the world’s finest instructors,” said Eric Schlett, Vice President/Executive Director, PennWell Corp. FDIC International 2017 featured many special events and networking opportunities. The NFFF 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, the Scott Firefighter
Combat Challenge, the Firefighter Throwdown Crossfit competition, the HEAT Competition, and the Real Time Outdoor Product Demonstrations provide firefighters with competition and educational opportunities. Many off-site industry association events also take place each year, as well as networking events such as the International Networking Event. As an official event of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Buyers Select Program, FDIC International also provided an International Lounge complete with local area information and translation services for attendees traveling overseas. Recognizing that the FDIC Experience is hard to put into words, Chief (ret.) Bobby Halton, FDIC International Education Director, maintains that, “after nine decades, FDIC will stay true to our heritage and original commitment to train the fire service.” FDIC International 2018 will be held April 23-28, 2018, at the Indianapolis Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium. To learn more about FDIC International, please visit www.fdic.com.
WATERWAY LONG ISLAND’S 10TH ANNIVERSARY! This year Waterway Long Island is celebrating its 10th year in business servicing customers in Nassau, Suffolk, and lower Westchester counties! The company was formed in 2008 after determining that there were no local fire equipment testing services on Long Island, the few being out of state. Beginning with a promise and guarantee to provide quality service using local firefighters, Waterway Long Island was born, and has since grown to service over 175 customers. As NFPA requirements change, Waterway has always met the challenge to ensure that the departments hose, equipment, and pumps are properly inspected and tested and, most importantly, documented to the latest up-to-date standard. For example, in 2013 NFPA 1962 many additions and revisions were added, including requiring the annual service testing and documentation of nozzles, appliances, and system flow-testing. To provide the proper service to meet this new standard, Waterway researched and developed procedures, engineered and built testing equipment, and formulated documentation to make it easy for departments to comply with the new standard. Upon the request of many of its existing customers, in 2015 Waterway began offering its latest service, Mobile Pump Testing. As many departments
have limited manpower available, Waterway now comes to the department to test apparatus pumps for the annual NFPA testing, or after pump repairs have been made or modified. Utilizing a Weis Draft Commander 3000, Waterway’s trained and certified EVT Technicians are able to test up to a 3500-GPM pump or (two) pumps simultaneously up to 1500-GPM each, using cool clean recycled water at the fire station or shop. Waterway provides all the necessary equipment and manpower - no department or district personnel are required. In most cases a department’s entire pump inventory is completed in only one day! When first started in 2008, hose testing was the only service provided. In response to customer requests as well as NFPA requirements, Waterway currently offers hose, nozzle, appliance and system flow testing, as well as the NFPA 1911 mobile pump testing. Additionally, they perform suction hose vacuum testing, hose cleaning, and on-site LDH repairs. The Schuman family would like to thank their customers for trusting them for the past 10 years, allowing the company to grow, and look forward to serving them for the future with even more services. For more information contact Waterway at 516-731-1616 or sschuman@waterwayinc.com.
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Fire News, June 2017, Page 135
Island Park Officers Sworn In
On April 15, 2017, the Island Park Fire Department hosted the annual Second Battalion Chief’s Luncheon at Peter’s Clam Bar in Island Park. During the luncheon, a reorganizational meeting was held and the newly elected officers were sworn in by Island Park ex-Chief and current Town of Hempstead Councilman Anthony D’Esposito. The new officers are: Chairman Douglas Weidmann, Vice-Chairman Thomas Bettes, and Secretary Richard Corbett. - Fire News photos by K2M Photography.com
Now, That’s Dedication
On April 18, 2017, members of the West Hempstead Fire Department attended a water rescue class at the Echo Park pool in West Hempstead. The class was given by the lifeguards with the help of West Hempstead’s Rescue Squad. The class lasted two hours but started after the pool closed. - Fire News photos by Bill D’Alessandro
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N. Merrick’s Kelleher to the USMC
On April 16, 2017, North Merrick Firefighter Ryan Kelleher left North Merrick Fire Headquarters for the United States Marine Corps. Dozens of family, friends and fellow firefighters gathered at the Camp Avenue firehouse to wish Ryan luck and say their goodbyes. After all the well wishes were said a handful of group photos
were taken with North Merrick Engine 674 as the backdrop. Members of North Merrick Engine Company No. 1 then got on the rig and took Ryan to his recruiter’s office in Hicksville. Godspeed and good luck, Ryan. - Fire News photos by K2M Photography.com
Mineola’s Cusato Honored On April 8,2017, the Mineola Fire Department honored Honorary Chief Paul Cusato for his 50 years of service to the department and the community. Paul was escorted by his daughters and was awarded numerous citations and an award from the Mineola Chiefs office. Cusato joined Engine Company 1 of the Mineola Fire Department in March 1967. He has served as Secretary (twice), Vice-President and President of the company. He was named Firefighter of the Year for Engine Company 1, Firefighter of the Year for the department, Firefighter of the Year for the Town of Hempstead, and was awarded Honorary Chief in 2016. He has received numerous other awards. Cusato has held several committee posts, as well as serving as a Mineola Village Trustee since 2004. - Fire News photos by Kevin Imm
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Obituary
Seaford’s Fire Medic Rachel Hayden On April 24, 2017, the Seaford Fire Department was dealt the difficult loss of 20-year-old Fire Medic Rachel Hayden. A wake was held for Hayden on April 27 and 28 with the funeral on April 29 at St. David’s Lutheran Church in Massapequa. Prior to arriving at the church the funeral procession passed Seaford Fire Headquarters. Rest in peace Fire Medic Rachel Hayden. - Fire News photos by K2M Photography.com
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Page 140, Fire News, June 2017
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