VOLUME XLIV, NO. 11
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Since 1973 JULY 2017
Story on page 6. - Fire News photo by Dennis Whittam
Fire News Welcomes all to FRI 2017 Stop By And See Us At Booth 636
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Fire News, July 2017, Page 3
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In this issue... A Service for Long Island Firefighters and EMS Heroes
Melville House Blaze The entire second floor of a house undergoing renovations is gutted. See story page 16
Collapse in Merrick A two-story home under construction is fully involved on arrival of firefighters. See story page 24
Williston Park House Fire A raging fire damages a Cornwell Avenue home, but all residents escape. See story page 38
Long Timers Honored in Deer Park FC Anthony Macaluso (40 years), ex-Captain John Schwier (45) and ex-Chief Frank Pfister (55) are honored. See story page 62
Montauk FD Water Rescue Training East Hampton Ocean Rescue, Town Marine Patrol and Village Mobile Command partake in the FD exercise.
See stories page 72
Obituaries, Memorials
Riverhead’s Richie Ligon Rockville Centre’s Don Schluter
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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PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 EMS Coverage . . . . . . . . . . . . .starts on page 42 Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 80 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 82 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . pages 84-85 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 88
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
Who is Maslow? One thing I was sure of when I joined my volunteer fire department, was that if I was to be successful, I needed to be a good listener and work hard at learning my new trade to be respected as a good firefighter. I was a believer in Maslow’s Hierarchy. (Google Maslow’s Hierarchy on your own!) Everyone, no matter how old you are, needs to have good self-esteem and a sense of belonging in society to feel a part of it. As an officer in the fire service, an understanding of Maslow’s theory can help you lead your company with a fair amount of success. But to fine tune this theory for the fire service, there are a few things all of you need to understand. Are you competent at what you do? This is a tough question to answer. Knowing how to do something, like starting a saw is a good thing. But when the blade needs to be changed, can you do it quickly and efficiently? For our new pump operators; can you safely get your crew to the scene of a fire? Will the nozzle team have their water when they need it? What do you do when you screw up? Do you accept responsibility for your actions? Mistakes happen. Don’t beat around the bush and make excuses for a mistake. When things go wrong, go back to the firehouse and sit down with the people who
have some experience and ask them what you may have done wrong. During your critique, if you get several explanations about your mistake or problem you then need to seek additional help from places like your local fire academy or the manufacturer of the product with which you had a problem. Always remember that if people view you as not knowing about a task you are supposed to know, they will shy away from you and might even view you as being unsafe. Do you want to walk into a burning building with a partner who doesn’t know what to do should a problem arise? The firefighting culture can be tough. We tend to avoid change. When change occurs that you do not understand, remind yourself to be flexible and whatever you do, do not create your own interpretation of something and then pass it along to others. Educate yourself about the change by asking others their opinion. But always ask the person making the change to explain why the change is needed. The person making the change should also reflect on the concerns of the members. You gain the respect and get the support of others when they see that you care about them. If you are a senior member, you need to make sure the new members of your depart-
ment learn first-hand from your knowledge and experience. Attend probie drills. Simply by standing at the drill and observing, you can make positive suggestions to the trainees. Wearing your gear during the drill, sets the example for everyone to follow. Senior members can reinforce the reasons why we do things a certain way. It is simple for a new member to earn the respect of the company. You gain respect by understanding Maslow’s Hierarchy and by doing your job well. Remain committed to being the best at what you do. Remain dedicated to your passion to be an extraordinary first responder. -Dennis
Announcements FIRE POLICE TRAINING SEMINAR
A Fire Police Training Seminar will be held at the Brookhaven Town Volunteer Firefighters Museum, 725 Route 25 (Middle Country Rd.), in Ridge, on Saturday, July 22, 2017. Sign-in starts at 0845 and the events will run from 0930 to 1300. This museum fundraiser costs $45 per person and includes a barbecue lunch and refreshments. Instructors from the Brookhaven Town Fire Police Association will have PowerPoint presentations, hands-on activities and demonstrations on topics such as crowd control, setting up TTCZ, training techniques for officers, using birds-eye mapping for pre-plans in your district, fire police equipment, HazMat and fire police, remote traffic control, vehicle set-up and viewing. The museum will be available as well. Limited space is available! (Weather may restrict some outside training.) For more info contact Tony at 631-805-2304. Mail checks payable to: Brookhaven Town Volunteer Firefighters Museum, Fire Police Training, c/o A. Dangelo, PO Box 442, Mount Sinai, NY 11766. For more information: www.brookhavenfiremuseum.org; 631-9248114.
SLOMO AND CINDY SILVIAN SCHOLARSHIP
The Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund would like all volunteers residing in Nassau and Suffolk Counties to submit the following information by July 21, 2017. There will be approximately 16 awards drawn by lottery on Sunday, July 30, 2017. The Slomo and Cindy Silvian Scholarships are only offered to students attending vocational or parochial schools. Eligible schools include elementary, middle and high schools, colleges or universities, or NYS accredited vocational training institutes. Submit the name of the student, date of birth, school attending in the fall, home address, home phone, name of firefighters, relationship, and fire department to: Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund, 510 Grumman Road West, Suite 117, Bethpage, NY 11714. More information can be found at: www.terryfund.org.
SUFFOLK FRES ELECTS NEW OFFICERS
The Suffolk County Fire Rescue and Emergency Services Commission has announced the new officers of the executive board for 2017. Elected Commission Chairman is Tim Crafts of the Smithtown Fire Chiefs Council; Drew Silverman of the Suffolk County Ambulance Chiefs Association was elected Vice-Chairman and Kyle Markott of the Brookhaven Fire Chiefs Council was elected Treasurer. The Commission is comprised of appointed delegates of all 10 township fire chiefs councils, the Suffolk County Fire Chiefs Council, the Suffolk County Fire District Officers Association, the Suffolk County Volunteer Firemen's Association, the Suffolk County Ambulance Chiefs Association and the Fire Marshals Association of Suffolk County and acts as the policy-making body to the County Executive, the County Legislature and the Commissioner of Fire Rescue and Emergency Services regarding fire service issues, training and mutual aid.
BROOKHAVEN SAFETY OFFICERS 1ST ANNUAL SAFETY OFFICER FORUM
The Brookhaven Town Safety Officers Association, Inc., will be hosting the 1st Annual Safety Officer Forum, hosted by the Coram Fire Department, on September 23, 2017. Registration is at 0700, Breakfast 0730 to 0830. The fee is $65 per person ($70 after August 15, 2017) and $75 at the door. This includes a Continental breakfast and lunch Numerous speakers will include: OSHA, PESH, Attorney's, FDNY, EMS, Safety Officers, NFPA, OEM, PSEG, NIOSH. Issuing: Certificates, CEU'S, CME's Topics covered will be: Culture Change, The Law, Safety Strategies, Safety Officers Authority, Safety Techniques, Terrorist Attacks, Cancer, POVs. There will be safety pins, literature, raffles, exhibits and much more. Go to www.btsoa.org to register.
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Announcements VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTER CANCER COVERAGE PASSES
Senator John Brooks, a 48-year veteran of the volunteer fire service and former Fire Chief, today applauded the passage of the New York State Volunteer Firefighter Gap Coverage Disability Benefits Act (S1411A). Senator Brooks, a co-sponsor of the bill, spoke from the Senate floor to voice his continued support for disability benefits for volunteer firefighters who acquire cancer from firefighting. “This bill will help cover volunteer firefighters for serious risks that exist solely because of their service,” said Brooks. “Our first responders answer the call 24/7 and we all depend upon them to protect our lives and our property. When these men and women become sick helping their communities, we must do the right thing for them.” Volunteer firefighters are contracting cancer at an alarming rate, due to toxic carcinogens burning in the fires they fight, according to a series of studies over the past few years. Volunteer firefighters save New York State billions of dollars through their service, but the provisions for volunteer firefighters who contract a serious form of cancer are severely inadequate. In many instances, volunteer firefighters are forced to incur large out-of-pocket expenses while seeking treatment for cancer, a disease they got because of their service protecting their community. Jerry Owenburg, an ex-Chief with the West Babylon Volunteer Fire Department, praised the bill, saying, “I’ve been proud to be a volunteer firefighter for 40 years, even through the many times it took me away from spending time with my family. Fighting cancer as a result of firefighting shouldn’t also be a financial burden on my family. Thank you, Senator Brooks, for supporting legislation that provides some relief to volunteer firefighters facing cancer.” Under the current firefighters’ benefit law, a totally disabled firefighter is limited to $600 per month in disability benefits. This legislation would create a gap coverage disability benefit to help the volunteers offset some of these expenses due to their illness and hopefully provide some peace of mind to the firefighters and their families. “The men and women in the volunteer fire service are there for us in our worst moments. It’s time we repay them by doing the same.”
2017 NYS CHAMPIONSHIP PARADE AND DRILL
The Hempstead Yellow Hornets and the West Hempstead Westerners will be hosting the 2017 New York State Championship Parade and Drill on Saturday, August 19 and Sunday, August 20, 2017. Those interested in helping their fundraising effort by advertising in the journal being produced are asked to get their ads in by July 15, 2017. Rates are as follows: Outside back cover, $500; Inside front or back cover, $500; Gold page, $300; Full page, $200; Half page, $125; Business card, $25; Booster, $5. Make checks payable to West Hempstead Westerners Alumni, c/o West Hempstead Fire Department, Westerners Drill Team, 55 Broadway, West Hempstead, NY 11552.
GLEN COVE 2017 GOLF OUTING
The City of Glen Cove Volunteer Fire Department Golf Outing will be held on Monday, August 27, 2017. The department fundraiser is offering Tee Sponsorships for $100. Those wishing to avail themselves of this opportunity will need to have their information in by August 2, 2017. Make checks payable to: Glen Cove Fire Department, 10 Glen Cove Avenue, Glen Cove, NY 11542.
WHERE ARE YOUR DEPARTMENT’S PHOTOS?
We would like to remind our readers that we are always happy to receive photos and stories from departments who have never been in our paper. Feel free to e-mail your photos to li@fire news.com. We ask that any photo you do send be high resolution (300 dpi or better) and that you do not retouch, crop, alter or reduce your photos in size when you e-mail them to us. Please send two to four photos per incident. Also, include a brief write-up of the incident, event, or family news, which includes basic “who, what, when, and where information.” We look forward to seeing your department in our next issue. - Ed.
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Cover Story
FF Ray Pfeifer Answers Last Alarm
On June 2, 2017, Firefighter Ray Pfeifer was laid to rest. Ray was a member of the East Meadow Fire Department and a member of the Fire Department of the City of New York’s Engine Company 40. Ray responded to the World Trade Center on 9/11 and worked with his brothers from Engine 40 to help recover those lost, including the members of his company. Because of Ray’s exposure to the toxic materials at the site, Ray, along with hundreds of other firefighters, police officers and workers, was diagnosed with cancer. Despite this, Ray continued his battle to save firefighters who worked at the WTC site and were diagnosed with cancer by making sure our political leaders supported the Zadroga Bill, which funds and establishes a health program to provide medical treatment for responders and survivors who experienced health complications related to the attacks. Ray’s ongoing support to all firefighters will always be remembered. May his family stand strong, as we remember Ray Pfeifer as a true American hero. Rest easy Ray, you will never be forgotten. -Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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East Hampton House Fire
On April 20, 2017, the East Hampton Fire Department responded to Fetlock Drive in the Hansom Hills section of East Hampton for a report of smoke in a residence. Chief Ken Wessberg, Jr., arrived and advised incoming units of a fire in a secondstory bedroom. Firefighters from first-arriving Truck 9-1-2 were able to enter the building and make a quick knockdown, containing the fire to one bedroom. There were no injuries, and the East Hampton Town Fire Marshal was on scene. - Fire News photos by Michael Heller
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Selden House Fire
Under the command of Chief of Department Bill Xikis, Selden firefighters made an aggressive attack to bring the flames under control at a fire on Peconic Street recently. Mutual aid came from Coram, Farmingville and Terryville. - Fire News photos by Jim Dunn
Wantagh House Blaze
On April 17, 2017, the Wantagh Fire Department was alerted for a house fire on Twin Lane North in Wantagh. Ex-Chief John Gillen, who lives nearby, responded and advised that there were flames visible from the exterior of the house and the sole occupant was out. Firefighters arrived to flames coming out of three sides of the house. Engine 2 stretched a line to the rear under the command of Lieutenant Richard Mongiello. Ladder 2, led by Captain Bradley Field, went to work placing ground ladders and preparing to ventilate. Engine 7, led by Lieutenant Dan Brandon, arrived and stretched an additional line to the front of the house. Engine 3 stretched a third line as backup. Chief James Bloomfield was in command and 1st Assistant Chief Joe Gross, 2nd Assistant Ken Kelly, and 3rd Assistant Tom Bloomfield assisted. It took just under an hour to bring the blaze under control Mutual aid came from Levittown, North Bellmore, East Meadow, Seaford, Massapequa and Bellmore - Fire News story by Kevin Regan, PIO; and photos by Kevin Imm
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Brentwood House Fire On May 6, 2017, the Brentwood Fire Department was activated for a residential fire on Front Street. Commanding units arrived to find smoke showing and heavy fire on the side 2 exposure. Mutual aid was requested from Islip. The fire was quickly knocked down by first-due units without further incident. - Fire News photos by Bryan Lopez
2 FFs, 1 Civ Injured in House Fire
The Central Islip Fire Department responded to a report of a garage fire on Bushwick Avenue early on April 30, 2017. Units, under the command of 1st Assistant Chief Patrick Murphy, discovered that the fire had fully extended into the living space of a high-ranch. Chief Murphy requested mutual aid from East Brentwood, Islip Terrace, Hauppauge and East Islip. During operations, two CI firefighters received burns and were transported for treatment. A civilian was also transported for respiratory problems. The Central IslipHauppauge Volunteer Ambulance was on scene and the Suffolk County Arson Squad responded. - Fire News photos by Charles A. Murphy, CIFD
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Quick Job in Roosevelt The Roosevelt Fire Department transmitted a working fire for a blaze on the second floor of a split-level home on St. Francis Street on May 3, 2017. Arriving companies were met with heavy fire and smoke condition but were able to quickly control the fire. Mutual aid companies assisted. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Suspicious Blaze in Nesconset
The Nesconset Fire Department responded to a house fire on Lake Avenue South on April 30, 2017. Firefighters arrived to find a basement fire extending to the first floor. The home has been vacant and was the scene of previous fires. Suffolk Police Arson Squad and Smithtown Fire Marshals were on the scene, which appeared suspicious in nature. Mutual aid came from Ronkonkoma, Saint James, Smithtown, Lakeland, Centereach and Nissequogue. Two firefighters were treated for non-life threatening injuries, with one being transported to Stony Brook University Hospital. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
1 Injury at Gordon Hts. Fire On May 7, 2017, the Gordon Heights Fire Department was activated for a residential structure fire on Beech Street. Upon arrival, units were met with smoke showing and visible fire. Mutual aid was requested from Middle Island, Coram, Yaphank and Medford Volunteer Ambulance. The home was quickly fully engulfed and command ordered exterior operations. One occupant of the home was transported with minor injuries to a nearby hospital. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Elmont Garage Fire On April 11, 2017, the Elmont Fire Department responded to the report of a garage fire on Citizen Avenue near Meacham Avenue. The garage was fully involved on arrival and presented an exposure problem to both adjoining properties. Lines were stretched to both houses to extinguish the blaze and protect the exposures from further damage. The incident was under control within 20 minutes. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Westbury Comm’l Fire
Speedy Work in Hempstead
The Westbury Fire Department responded to a building fire on Hopper Street in New Cassel on April 23, 2017. Firefighters arrived to a heavy fire condition at an unoccupied commercial business. Mutual aid came from Hicksville, Carle Place, East Williston, Bethpage, Mineola and East Meadow. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
On April 12, 2017, Hempstead Fire Alarm Central toned out an automatic alarm on Baldwin Road. Units were met with a basement fire in a 2-1/2 story private dwelling. West Hempstead was designated the FAST and responded with Ladder 765. South Hempstead, Uniondale, and Lakeview came on mutual aid. Hempstead Engine 2 and Ladder 2 were the first to arrive. Firefighters made a quick knockdown of the fire and the scene was placed under control within 15 minutes. - Fire News photo by K2M Photography.com
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Melville Blaze in House Under Construction
The Melville Fire Department responded to a fire in a house undergoing major renovations on Phaetons Drive on April 20, 2017. About 60 firefighters using eight trucks from Melville, Huntington Manor, Plainview, East Farmingdale and Greenlawn to battle the blaze, which was controlled within 45 minutes, under the command of Chief Jason Bernfeld and Assistant Chiefs Chris Nolan and David Kaplan. The Huntington and Huntington Community First Aid Squad provided standby. The fire gutted the entire second floor of the house, with water damage to the first floor. - Fire News photos by Steve Silverman and Linda McDonough
Hempstead House Fire
Rush Hour Car Fire
Melville Blaze in House Under Construction
On April 12, 2017, the Hempstead Fire Department responded to a house fire on Baldwin Road and found a small basement fire. A line was stretched and mutual aid was called from West Hempstead. - Fire News photo by Bill D’Alessandro
On May 9, 2017, the Yaphank Fire Department responded to a vehicle fire eastbound on the LIE, east of exit 65. Engines 5 and 9 responded and quickly extinguished the fire, preventing any damage to the tow truck that was towing it and the other vehicle on the flat bed. - Fire News photo by Kevin Conn
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North Babylon Garage Fire Stopped
On the afternoon of May 8, 2017, the North Babylon Fire Company was alerted for a house fire on Centerwood Street. Second Assistant Chief Cullen arrived to fire showing from the garage on the exposure 1 side of a two-story house. Engine 1-8-8 was first due and its crew had two lines stretched, with one going to the garage and the other into the house. The fire was knocked down and contained to garage in about 20 minutes. There were no reported injuries and the cause was under investigation. Mutual aid was provided to the scene by the Wyandanch and East Farmingdale. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza and BTFirePhoto.com
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Huntington Manor Hits House Fire The Huntington Manor Fire Department responded to reports of a house fire on Beverly Road in South Huntington on April 23, 2017. Huntington Manor was assisted by the Melville, Dix Hills, Greenlawn and Huntington Community First Aid Squad, and Huntington on standby. Firefighters worked to extinguish a fire in the basement and first floor of the house. Units were under the command of Assistant Chiefs Jon Hoffmann and Jim Glidden. The residents of the home safely evacuated, and there were no injuries reported. The Suffolk Police Arson Squad and Huntington Town Fire Marshal were investigating. - Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
Asphalt Truck Fire in Greenlawn The Greenlawn Fire Department responded to a burning asphalt paving trailer on Broadway and Bristol Street on April 24, 2017. Two engines and an ambulance were dispatched, under the command of Chief Mike Bellis, and Assistant Chiefs Angelo Santomauro and Pete Miller. Crews quickly extinguished the blaze, and used dikes to prevent runoff into two storm drains. Town of Huntington spill response and harbormaster were notified to respond for a hydraulic fluid spill. - Fire News story by Steve Silverman, photo courtesy Greenlawn FD
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Good Stop in Middle Island The Middle Island Fire Department responded to a fire in a home with a detached two-car garage and an exposure issue, a house about 15 feet from the garage. Upon arrival, the fire had just began to spread to the house. Crews had a 2-1/2 inch line in service very quickly, although initial crews were limited in manpower. There was minimal damage to the home. The resident was the uncle of a Miller Place chief. Mutual aid came from Coram and Miller Place. -Fire News story by 2nd AC Matthew Gropper; photos by Walter Olszewski
Bellport House Fire
Early on June 5, 2017, the Bellport Fire Department was activated for a residential structure fire on Pace Avenue. Commanding units were met with heavy fire upon arrival and mutual aid was requested from Hagerman, Brookhaven and South Country Ambulance to the scene. Command advised all units of an exterior attack only. The fire was quickly knocked down and no injuries were reported. Command requested a fire marshal to the scene for an investigation. - Fire News photos by Bryan Lopez
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Ya’ Never Know ‌Geese Rescued The Hauppauge Fire Department and Islip Town Animal Control were called to Rabro Drive in Hauppauge on May 10, 2017. Apparently, baby geese got separated from their mother and were stuck on the roof of the building. Firefighters used a ladder, and teamed up with an animal control officer to affect the rescue. The baby geese were put in a cage and brought to the ground and reunited with their parents. (Left to right): Town of Islip Animal Control Officer Jason Mollet, Firefighter Steven Piccirillo, Captain Chris Sutkevich. - Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
Uniondale Car Fire On May 23, 2017, the Uniondale Fire Department was dispatched to a reported car fire on Hawthorne Avenue off Jerusalem Avenue. When firefighters arrived on scene they were met with a car fire to the rear of a residence. One line was stretched and firefighters quickly extinguished the fire. Units were under the command of Uniondale Chief of Department Smith. - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com
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Bellmore House Fire
The Bellmore Fire Department responded to a fire in a private dwelling on Lee Place on the afternoon of May 29, 2017. The bulk of the blaze was confined to the second floor with some extension into the attic area. Several departments provided mutual aid companies to assist. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Collapse in Merrick Early on May 23, 2017, the Merrick Fire Department was called to a house fire in the vicinity of Yale Road and Lindenmere Drive. First arriving units found a large two-story home under construction fully involved. A defensive attack took place due to the volume of fire, which was threatening several exposures. The house completely collapsed shortly into the operation. Engine 642 put its deck gun into operation along with the master stream from Ladder 6411 and numerous handlines. There were no reported injuries and the cause of the fire was under investigation by the Nassau County Fire Marshal’s Office. Mutual aid came from North Merrick, Bellmore and North Bellmore. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
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Bridgehampton Comm’l Fire On May 22, 2017, the Bridgehampton Fire Department was dispatched to a report of a fire at the Safelite Auto Glass store on Montauk Highway, First-arriving units discovered a working fire in the second floor of the building, and immediately called for mutual aid from Southampton and Sag Harbor to the scene, as well as East Hampton for standby. The fire was brought under control in relatively short order, and members of the Southampton Town Fire Marshal’s office were called in to determine the fire’s cause and origin. - Fire News photos by Michael Heller and Charlotte Campbell
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Copiague Group Home Blaze The Copiague Fire Department was alerted for a fire at a home on Great Neck Road on May 21, 2017. Chief of Department Fitch arrived to smoke showing from a 2-1/2 story house that was used as a group home. The fire was located on the second floor and was extending into the attic. The crew from Ladder 1-3-4 laddered, vented and searched the home with all searches negative. It took about an hour to bring the fire under control with no reported injuries. Mutual aid came from Lindenhurst, North Amityvillle, Amityville and North Lindenhurst. The fire was believed to have originated from workers doing roof repair on a set back on the exposure two side. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Quick Work on Melvin Ave. The Lakeview Fire Department responded to the report of a house fire on May 28, 2017, on Melvin Avenue. Smoke was showing from a second-floor window on arrival, but the fire was quickly knocked down by first arriving engine company. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Roof Fire in Springs
On May 20, 2017, members of the Springs Fire Department were called to Talmage Farm Lane for a report of a fire in the roof of the residence. First-arriving units found the roof of the home fully involved, and immediately called for mutual aid from Amagansett, East Hampton, Sag Harbor and Montauk. The fire, and heaviest damage, was contained to the roof of the house, but firefighters were able to save the rest of the structure. The homeowners were able to evacuate safely, and there were no injuries to any firefighters. The East Hampton Town Fire Marshal’s office was investigating. - Fire News photos by Michael Heller
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Deer Park House Fire On May 18, 2017, the Deer Park Fire Department was alerted for a house fire on W. 5th Street in Deer Park. First Assistant Chief Scarfi advised Chief of Department Biolsi of smoke showing on arrival. Chief Biolsi requested mutual aid from North Babylon. Crews quickly went to work locating and attacking the stubborn fire. Wyandanch covered, while Wyandanch-Wheatley Heights EMS provided an ambulance to the scene. No injuries were reported and scene was turned over to Town of Babylon Fire Marshal’s Office for investigation. - Fire News photos by John Ippolito, Jr. and Brian Thomas
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Gunther’s Tap Room Blaze
The Northport Fire Department responded to a fire at Gunther’s Tap Room on Main Street, on May 23, 2017. About 60 firefighters from the Northport, Centerport, East Northport, Kings Park, Greenlawn and Eaton’s Neck battled the blaze. The fire was controlled within an hour, under the command of Chief Brad Wine and Assistant Chiefs John Jacobsen and Dennis Sheridan. Five people living in apartments above Gunther’s were safely evacuated by Northport police and Northport Firefighter Jake Milliken who spotted the fire while passing and called in the alarm. Three firefighters, two from Northport and one from Kings Park, suffered minor injuries and were transported to Huntington and St. Catherine’s hospitals. The fire, which gutted the bar, is under investigation by the Suffolk Police Arson Squad and the Northport Fire Marshal. Suffolk FireRescue Coordinators, Emergency Management and the American Red Cross were on the scene to provide assistance and relocating displaced residents. - Fire News story by Steve Silverman, photos courtesy Chris Ciaci and Northport PD
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4 of 8 Buildings Go in Hauppauge On June 8, 2017, the Hauppauge Fire Department was notified of a structure fire at a multiple-occupancy residential building on New Highway. Firefighters arrived to find four of eight units fully involved with the remaining four smoke damaged. Chief Robert Wind, requested mutual aid from Central Islip, Smithtown, Nesconset, and Commack; EMS came from the Commack Volunteer Ambulance Company and Central Islip-Hauppauge Volunteer Ambulance. One firefighter was transported for smoke inhalation. The American Red Cross was notified to assist with a number of displaced residents. - Fire News photos by Richard Stark, Joseph C. Sperber and Matthew O’Reilly
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Pets Saved in North Merrick Several house pets were injured in an early morning house fire in North Merrick on May 10, 2017. Firefighters were called to a home on Powell Avenue and found the rear of the home engulfed in flames. Several house pets were pulled from the burning home, and fire and police personnel were seen administering first aid on the front lawn. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Camper Fire in Yaphank On the evening of May 4, 2017, Yaphank firefighters responded to a fire in an abandoned pop-up travel trailer on Marginal Place North and East Main Street. - Fire News photo by Thomas J. Lambui
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Islip Storage Unit Fire
On May 2, 2017, the Islip Fire Department was alerted for a report of a building fire on North Saxon Ave in Bay Shore. Islip Engine 34-9, along with auto mutual aid units from Bay Shore and East Islip responded. The crew of Engine 3-4-9 stretched one line and deployed a ladder to the affected area of a large self-storage facility. Once on the roof the officer of Engine 3-4-9 determined that the fire was exterior and requested the line to the roof. While the crew worked on knocking down the fire, the second-due engine and mutual aid units opened storage units and checked for extension. - Fire News photos by John Ippolito, Jr.
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Getting the Incident Safety Officer Job Done In some cases it may be difficult for the new safety officer (SO) or even the seasoned SO in getting fellow firefighters to believe in you. Many of them may say, “Who does he/she think he is?” or “What does he/she think they know?” There are many firefighters who understand what the SO is trying to accomplish. There are also many Incident Commanders who use an SO all the time and many departments have it as a Standard Operating Procedures (SOP). If you’re not getting 100percent support, it makes influencing your fellow firefighters of the importance of the SO a very difficult job. My suggestion is: do not move too fast and do not expect things to happen overnight. The important thing is getting the incident SO’s job done. Apply the things you have learned over the years as a firefighter or EMS person and do it with decorum and deliver your message with a strong desire to show you care about firefighter safety and also that you believe in what you are doing, it does work, and it works well. Over the past five years, LODD have been lowered by about 15 percent, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. Although there are many programs in place, some departments require someone to be the SO to run for office. A rapid way to get a good SO program off the ground is for it to be a chief’s order, adopting the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) codes, or by orders of the authority having jurisdiction. Many insurance companies are now requesting SOs be present at incidents. In order for you to influence others that your presence is tantamount to safety, you have to be aware of certain triggers that generate respect for what you are trying to accomplish. For instance, according to David Dodson’s book, Fire Department Safety Officer (3rd edition; Jones and Bartlett Learning 2016). Dodson describes several options an SO can use to remind personnel at incident scenes of situational awareness and behaviors. This could be accomplished by various approaches. There is a passive trigger, which is a subtle way of making a correction, such as showing a visible sign of your presence; i.e., an SO vest, a green helmet, a different shield, a tailgate critique, etc. These things can trigger safe behavior through the power of suggestion and be a reminder to “think safety.” This is called a soft intervention: when an imminent threat to life is not existing and communications to command or an officer mitigates the potential hazard. A firm intervention is when something should be stopped immediately. According to NFPA 1561 (2014) 5.9.6.11, “At an emergency incident where activities are judged by the incident safety officer as posing an immediate threat to responder safety, the incident safety officer shall have the authority to stop, alter, or suspend those activities.” Followed by NFPA 5.9.6.12: “The incident safety officer shall immediately inform the incident commander of any actions taken to correct imminent hazards at the emergency scene.” Above all, to get respect it must be earned. Keep increasing your knowledge. There are several organizations that hold meetings and are passing information on to you. Attend the all-day Safety Seminar, held at the Coram Fire Department on September 23, 2017. To register go to www. btso.org Question: Name 2 passive triggers? Answer: Being visible and setting an example (Dodson, 3rd Edition2016- Jones and Bartlett Learning, page 148) Ex-Chief Jeff Bailes President Brookhaven Town Safety Officers Association, Inc. www.btsoa.org 631-495-1313
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Center Moriches: 2 Fires, 1 House
On the evening of April 30, 2017, a passerby noticed smoke coming from a house on Bernstein Boulevard, just south of Frowein Road and called 911. The Center Moriches Fire Department and 7th Precinct police responded and found the rear of the house fully engulfed, with flames blowing through the roof. No one was home at the time of the blaze and rescuers discovered a cat in the house and brought it outside where Chief Lenny Kalmar performed mouth to mouth on the cat, which didn’t survive. A second fire was discovered in a shed to the rear of the house by Chief Ian Foley which was quickly extinguished. Officials have labeled the fire suspicious and were investigating. - Fire News photos by www.LiHotShots.smugmug.com
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Suspicious Blaze in Merrick
Early on May 23, 2017, the Merrick Fire Department was dispatched to a report of a house on fire in the vicinity of Lindenmere Drive and Yale Road. Firefighters were met with a fully involved private dwelling that was vacant, under construction, and posing exposure problems. A second alarm was transmitted, bringing additional resources. Within the first few minutes the fire building came down. Fortunately, firefighters were utilizing a defensive attack since arrival. North Merrick, Freeport, Bellmore, North Bellmore, Point Lookout-Lido, and Wantagh, among others, responded on mutual aid. The cause of the fire was later deemed suspicious. Fire department units were under the command of Merrick Chief of Department Paul Scolieri. - Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com
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Williston Park House Fire
A raging house fire heavily damaged a Williston Park home on the evening of June 6, 2017. Firefighters were called to the Cornwell Avenue address near William Street and found fire in the rear of the home. Witnesses stated that all occupants had escaped. Heavy black smoke filled the neighborhood and flames could be seen from blocks away. Williston Park firefighters were assisted by Mineola, Garden City Park, and Albertson. Nassau County Fire Marshals also responded. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Commack Early Morning House Fire
The Commack Fire Department responded to house fire on June 12, 2017, on Astor Court. Firefighters arrived to find five residents safely evacuated, with fire engulfing the attached garage and extending to the home. About 50 firefighters battled the blaze and were assisted by Kings Park, Smithtown and Hauppauge; East Northport provided standby coverage, and the Commack Volunteer
Ambulance Corps was on the scene. The fire was controlled in approximately a half-hour under the command of Chief Rich Myers and Second Assistant Chief Bobby Wilkins. The cause of the fire appeared to be accidental, and was under investigation by the Town of Smithtown and Commack Fire Marshals. - Fire News story by Steve Silverman, photo courtesy Jack O’Loughlin
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Bellmore House Fire
On May 29, 2017, the Bellmore Fire Department was called to a house fire on Lee Place off Boundary Road. Firefighters were met with a fire on the second floor of a two-story private dwelling. Two lines were operated as the fire extended from the second floor into
the cockloft. Within 45 minutes the scene was placed under control. Mutual aid came from North Bellmore, Merrick, North Merrick and Wantagh. Units were under the command of Bellmore Chief of Department Stoerger. - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com
Mineola House Fire
The Mineola Fire Department responded to a house fire on Emory Road on the evening of May 12, 2017. Arriving units were met by flames and smoke from the rear and sides of the house. Handlines were stretched and ladders were placed as companies battled to bring the blaze under control. Mutual aid departments assisted at the scene. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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EMS ACROSS THE ISLAND
Emergency Landing in Bellport
On June 12, 2017, a pilot, after experiencing engine trouble, was able to land his Cesna on the golf course at the Bellport Country Club. There were no injuries to the pilot. The Suffolk Police, Bellport Fire Department and South Country Ambulance responded. - Fire News photo by LiHotShots.smugmug.com
Car into Structure
The Franklin Square and Munson Fire Department was assisted by several mutual aid TRT teams after a vehicle smashed into a single-story garage on Cathedral Avenue on May 11, 2017. The impact knocked out a brick side wall and a supporting corner post. Several vintage cars were stored in the garage so extra care was taken in the removal of debris. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Worker Injured in Fall from Roof
The Melville Fire Department responded to assist an injured work- Brook University Hospital. Melville was on the scene with two er who fell approximately 25 feet from the roof of a commercial ambulances, two engines and a paramedic responder, under the building on Spagnoli Road on May 27, 2017. The patient suffered command of Second Assistant Chief David Kaplan. - Fire News photos courtesy Melville FD head injuries and was airlifted by Suffolk Police helicopter to Stony
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Garden City Cat Call
Freeport Car-into-Condo
A Garden City firefighter emerges from a storm drain on Nassau Boulevard on May 20, 2017, after searching for a reported trapped cat. The drain flowed in several directions and the cat was unable to be located. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
On May 28, 2017, the Freeport Fire Department was called to a carversus-building at the Wharfside Condominiums on Miller Avenue. Firefighters were met with a car with minor damage and one aided. Freeport Ambulance 219 transported the person to an area hospital. All fire units were under the command of First Assistant Chief Ruiz. - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com
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Hempstead MVA Late on May 22, 2017, the Hempstead Fire Department was called to an MVA with overturn at the intersection of Washington and Front Streets. Firefighters arrived to a two-car accident with one vehicle overturned and no entrapment. The drivers from each vehicle were transported to area hospitals with minor injuries. Units were under the command of Hempstead First Assistant Chief Giardino. - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com
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Hempstead Tpke. MC Crash The Franklin Square and Munson Fire Department was on the scene of a motorcycle accident on Hempstead Turnpike near Ribbon Street on the evening of May 26, 2017. EMS crews packaged the injured motorcyclist and transported him to an area hospital. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Lucky Place to Drop a Bike
2 Injured in Ronkonkoma MVA
A motorcyclist was injured early on May 28, 2017, after an accident on the east side of Peninsula Boulevard in Rockville Centre. Rockville Centre Fire Department and EMS personnel along with Nassau County Police were on the scene just south of the Southern State Parkway as a motorcycle lay in the northbound lanes. The accident occurred directly in front of the Mercy Medical Center. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Early on May 24, 2017, the Ronkonkoma Fire Department was activated for an MVA with overturn at the intersection of Smith Road and Hawkins Avenue. Upon arrival, Assistant Chief Vinny Diaz found a two-vehicle MVA with overturn and all subjects selfextricated. Two patients were transported to Stony Brook University Hospital with minor injuries via a Ronkonkoma Ambulance. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
West Islip MVA
E. Farmingdale Head-on
Just after midnight on May 19, 2017, the West Islip Fire Department was called to an MVA at Montauk Highway and Willets Path. The driver of an SUV struck a utility pole and overturned, hitting a another vehicle and trapping the driver in the SUV. Engines 3-17-1, 3-17-7, Ladder 3-17-4, Fire Police 3-17-10 and multiple ambulances responded. The crew from 3-17-4 had the driver extricated within 10 minutes. The driver was taken to Good Samaritan Hospital. Chief of Department Bilella was in charge of the scene. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
The East Farmingdale Fire Company was called to a three-car accident on Long Island Avenue near Little East Neck Road on the morning of June 1, 2017. The driver of a small sedan collided with a large sedan head on, then hit a midsize car head on. Second Assistant Choef Welliver, Heavy Rescue 1-5-4, Ambulances 1-5-10 and 1-5-29, and Fire Police 1-5-16 responded. Three people were injured in the crash and were taken by East Farmingdale and Wyandanch-Wheatley Heights ambulances to local hospitals. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
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Shirley MVA On June 9, 2017, two people were injured in a collision between a car and a pick-up truck on William Floyd Parkway at the intersection of Grand Avenue. The collision resulted in the pick-up flipping over and landing in some trees, and the sedan colliding with a utility pole. Both drivers were injured and taken to local hospitals via ambulance. Suffolk Police, and Mastic Fire Department and Mastic Ambulance responded - Fire News photo by Thomas J. Lambui
Overturn in Farmingville On June 3, 2017, the Farmingville Fire Department was activated for an MVA with overturn on Joseph Court. Upon arrival, Chief Dave Smith was met with a single-vehicle overturned over the guardrail on Nicolls Road, landing upright on Joseph Court. The driver of the vehicle was self extricated and was transported to Stony Brook University Hospital for injuries via a Farmingville ambulance. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
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Freeport MVA
Early on May 27, 2017, the Freeport Fire Department was dis- was transported to an area hospital. Units were under the command patched to an MVA with entrapment on South Main Street. Units of Freeport Chief of Department Matt Colgan. - Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com were met with a three-vehicle accident with one person trapped, requiring the use of hydraulic tools to be freed. At least one person
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Smithtown MVA The Suffolk Police and Smithtown Fire Department responded to an MVA on Mount Pleasant Road near Bow Drive in Hauppauge on May 16, 2017, where a delivery van struck a tree. The male driver was transported by Smithtown Fire Department ambulance to Saint Catherine of Siena Hospital in Smithtown with non-life threatening injuries. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
Center Moriches MVA
On June 7, 2017, Center Moriches firefighters responded to an MVA on Wading River Road, just south of Sunrise Highway, in which a sedan struck and severed a telephone pole. The male driver of the vehicle was taken via fire department ambulance to a local hospital with undisclosed injuries. - Fire News photo by Thomas J. Lambui
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Lucky in Yaphank On June 3, 2017, Yaphank firefighters responded to an MVA on the eastbound Long Island Expressway, east of exit 67, in which a man flipped his SUV twice. EMTs evaluated the driver but he refused medical attention or transport to a hospital. Suffolk Highway Patrol officers also responded. - Fire News photo by Thomas J. Lambui
5 Injured in Nesconset MVA The Nesconset Fire Department responded to a heavy rescue MVA in front of Costco on Middle Country Road. Under the command of 1st Assistant Chief John Martins, three people needed to be extricated. A total of five people, one with serious injuries, were transported to Stony Brook University Hospital. - Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
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Kid Has Good Taste!
Congratulations to the Farrells
Nicholas Rosamilia, 3-1/2, reads his favorite newspaper each month when his dad brings Fire News home from the Islip firehouse. Nicholas’ dad is the Captain of the Hook and Ladder in Islip and his mom, Marybeth, is a Deer Park District EMS. - Fire News photo by BTFirePhoto.com
Congratulations to John and Tara Farrell on their wedding on May 5, 2017. John is a 27-year member with the Ridge Fire Department, an ex-Captain with Company 1, and a charter member and pastPresident with the Riders Of Fire MC. - Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
Well, the Baby Was on Time! Mastic Firefighter Sam France and wife Kirsten are the proud parents of a baby girl delivered en route to Stony Brook University Hospital by Mastic Ambulance. France presented Mastic Ambulance with an award for their care and compassion. - Fire News photo by Rudy Sunderman
Rocky Point Father & Son Ex-Chief Bill Lattman and his son Robert Lattman, Robert and his father are both members of Company 2. - Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
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Showing the Medicos How it Works
On May 31, 2017, the Deer Park Fire Department invited the Good Samaritan Hospital doctors and residents to a classroom Q-and-A with staff from the department’s EMS personnel. Mark, Chris and Mary Beth went over the different equipment used by Deer Park for different medical emergencies. The doctors and residents then went into the ambulances to see and get a better understanding of what
goes on en route to the hospital. Deer Park firefighters demonstrated what it takes to extricate victims from an automobile accident and transport them to the hospital. The firefighters also extinguished a car fire during the training session and then the doctors and the residents dressed up as firefighters and handled the different tools. - Fire News photos by BTFirePhoto.com
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Uniondale 93rd Installation Hempstead Town Senior Councilwoman Dorothy Goosby presented official Town of Hempstead Certificates of Recognition during the dinner held at the Marriott in Uniondale. (Left to right): Chief Terence J. Smith, Senior Councilwoman Goosby and ex-Chief Vaughn Tucker. - Fire News photo provided
Lido-Point Lookout Inspection Dinner Hempstead Town Supervisor Anthony J. Santino along with Councilman Anthony D’Esposito presented official Town of Hempstead Citations to honorees at the dinner held at the Sands of Atlantic Beach on Beech Street. (Left to right): are Legislator Denis Ford, Councilman D’Esposito, Supervisor Santino, Chief Brian S. Guerin, ex-Chief Daniel Wiener and Senator Kaminsky. - Fire News photo provided
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NC Fire Commission Elects New Officers The Nassau County Fire Commission hosted its annual meeting and elections on May 10, 2017, in Bellmore. The Commission will be led this year by Chairman John Fabian, Sixth Battalion; Vice-Chairman John Hennig, Fourth Battalion; and Secretary Tony Pluto, Seventh Battalion. These elected officers were sworn in by Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano while the other battalion chairmen that make up the commission were sworn in by Hempstead Town Councilman/ex-Chief Anthony D’Esposito. Outgoing Chairman Denis Collins, Second Battalion; was acknowledged and honored for his service. Scott Tusa, Nassau County Fire Marshal was also present. -Fire News photos by Steve Grogan
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North Massapequa Installation
AT the North Massapequa Fire Department’s 2017 installation (Above): Commissioners on the left, Chief of Department Fred Ferrara, (center), assistant chiefs (right), Oyster Bay Town Clerk Jim Altadonna, Nassau County Legislator Rose Walker, Jack Pokress, Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joe Saladino and Oyster Bay Town Councilwoman Michele Johnson (right, center) honored Jack Pokress for his 61 years of service. - Fire News photos by Dave Pokress
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Lakeview Wetdown The Lakeview Fire Department held a wetdown ceremony on June 11, 2017, for their new Engine 414. The rig is a Rosenbauer Commander Engine and features a 1500-gpm pump with stainless steel plumbing, a 750-gallon poly L water tank, and a heavy duty marine grade aluminum FX body, among other things. The event was held at the rear of the department’s headquarters on Woodfield Road. The best of luck to the Lakeview Fire Department with their new apparatus. - Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com
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Long-Timers Honored in Deer Park
On April 11, 2017, the Deer Park Fire Department held its Annual Inspection and Awards night to recognize and honor three members for their milestone for years of service. They are: current Fire Commissioner and ex-Chief Anthony Macaluso (40 years), ex-Captain of Engine Co. 2 John Schwier (45 years) and exChief Frank Pfister (55 years). Thanks for your service to the Deer Park community. - Fire News photos by BTFirePhoto.com
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Hewlett Installation 2017
Hempstead Town Supervisor Anthony J. Santino along with Councilman Anthony D’Esposito presented an official Town of Hempstead Citation during the Hewlett Fire Department Annual Installation Dinner held at Temple Avodah located in Oceanside. (Left to right): incoming Chief Bryan Kolmier of Hewlett, Councilman D’Esposito, outgoing Chief Stephen Lahey of Hewlett, Supervisor Santino, Incoming 1st Assistant Chief Jamie Lewin of Valley Stream and Incoming 2nd Assistant Chief Steven Lahey of Valley Stream. - Fire News photo provided
Floral Park Installation
Hempstead Town Councilman Edward Ambrosino presents official Town of Hempstead Citations during the Floral Park Fire Department Annual Installation Dinner held at Jericho Terrace located in Mineola. (Left to right): Ex-Chief John Florio, Chief Michael Longobardi and Councilman Ambrosino. - Fire News photo provided
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Bassett Gets Farmingville Rookie of Year
On April 29, 2017, at Farmingville Fire Department’s Annual installation dinner Brandon Bassett was awarded Rookie of the Year for the year of 2016. Congrats to Brandon! - Fire News photo by Amanda Coffey
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Lynbrook’s Obanhein Achieves Eagle Scout Probationary Firefighter Timothy Obanhein from Lynbrook Hose Company No. 1 achieved the rank of Eagle Scout on May 17, 2017, at the Lynbrook Public Library. (Left to right): Ex-Captain of Hose Company, (and Eagle Scout) James Eisenhauer, who presented Timothy with a gift from the company; Tim’s father, exChief John Obanhein; and Chief of Department Carl Lengel, who also presented Timothy with a gift from the department. - Fire News photo courtesy Lynbrook FD
Locust Valley Installation On May 6, 2017, the Locust Valley Fire Department held their annual installation and inspection dinner at the Metropolitan in Glen Cove. (Left to right): 3rd Assistant Chief Ralph Longo, 2nd Assistant Chief James Neumeyer, 1st Assistant Chief Andrew Akapnitis and Chief of Department Kevin Barry. - Fire News photo by OvertheEdgePhotos.com
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Belmont/Elmont Parade
Burn Center’s Owenburg Honored
On June 3, 2017, the annual Belmont/Elmont parade was held. Pictured is a truck from North Valley Stream. - Fire News photo by Steve Takacs
An award was presented to Jerry Owenburg, Treasurer of the Suffolk County Volunteer Firefighters Burn Center Fund for his work as President and Treasurer for 17 years. He received the distinguished Bob Lyons Award for exceptional service and is responsible for starting many of the programs in place today. The award was presented by the Executive Board (left to right): Secretary Claudia Harford, 1st Vice-President Jeff Bailes, Jerry Owenburg, President Dawn Meyer, Dr. Gilbert and 2nd Vice-President Barry Vicik. - Fire News photo courtesy of Jeff Bailes
Freeport’s Ballard Honored for Save On May 22, 2017, Freeport Lieutenant Gatha Ballard was honored by the Freeport Village Board for his life saving actions at a house fire on March 26, 2017. While en route to his firehouse, Freeport Hose 5, that morning he noticed smoke and flames coming from a home on Union Street. Lt. Ballard quickly ran to the home. After making entry, he was met by an adult male on the first floor of the home and soon learned there were three more people upstairs including a mother and child. Lt. Ballard was able to get all four occupants safely out of the home. - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com
Helping Their Own in Long Beach On May 24, 2017, the Long Beach Volunteer Fire Department sponsored a fundraiser for ex-Chief Romano Lovrich and his family at the Sands in Lido Beach. Romano is a 40-plus-year member of the department from Ladder 2372 and is still very active. Recently, his wife Jeannette was in an accident that left her paralyzed. The purpose of the fundraiser was to collect money to help the Lovrich family purchase a wheelchair-accessible van and take care of other related expenses. Over 400 people attended the event, exceeding the expectatios of event organizers. During the night, there was an appearance by the Nassau County Firefighters Pipes and Drums Band as well as several raffles and prize giveaways. - Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com
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New Hyde Park Installation
The New Hyde Park Fire Department held its 107th annual installation dinner on April 29, 2017, at the Crest Hollow Country Club in Woodbury. (Bottom, left to right): 3rd Assistant Chief Patrick Lyons, 1st Assistant Chief Brian Sherwood, Chief Ann Mulooly (the department’s first female chief), 2nd Assistant Chief Victor Sowinski Jr., 4th Assistant Chief Joseph Papa. Also honored were 50-year members Al Neu and Michael Dolon both of Enterprise Engine Company 1. Also honored was outgoing Chief Paul Sokol of Active Hook and Ladder Company 1. - Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
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7th Battalion Chiefs Officers Sworn
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7th Battalion Chiefs Officers Sworn ....continued
On May 19, 2017, the officers and members of the 7th Battalion Chiefs Council held their monthly meeting at the Elmont Fire Department, and a new slate of officers were sworn in. (Opposite page, left to right): Secretary, Chief Scotty Clark from Hempstead; Sergeant at Arms, Chief Rodger Falk from Hempstead; new President, Chief James Prince from Elmont; Vice-President, Chief John Skelly from Uniondale; and Treasurer, Chief Tony Pluto from Hempstead. At the meeting, Chief William D’Alessandro was presented with his out-going President’s plaque for serving as President in 2016-2017, the second time he has served as president; the first time was in 2003-2004. - Fire News photos by Bill D’Alessandro
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Water Rescue Training
On May 10, 2017, the Montauk Fire Department continued its regular series of emergency drills, this time joining East Hampton Volunteer Ocean Rescue, East Hampton Town Marine Patrol and East Hampton Village Mobile Command. The scenario included three drowning victims at North Bar by the Montauk Lighthouse. Supervising the drill were Montauk’s Chief Vincent Franzone, First Assistant Chief David Ryan, Second Assistant Chief Mickey Valcich, and Ed Michels, Chief of the East Hampton Town Marine Patrol, and Theodore ‘T.J.’ Calabrese, Chief of the East Hampton Volunteer Ocean Rescue. The East Hampton Village Mobile Command Unit took the opportunity to fine tune its new emergency dispatching app. - Fire News photos by Richard Lewin
Town of Brookhaven Fire Marshal Honored On May 25, 2017, with wife Amy, son Hunter and daughter Lochlyn by his side and flanked by many of his colleagues and members of the Town Board, Fire Marshal Neil Thomas was presented with a proclamation by Supervisor Edward P. Romaine. The proclamation in recognition of Fire Marshal Thomas’ actions on May 18, 2017, when he rescued a family overcome by carbon monoxide. Fire Marshal Thomas put himself in harm’s way to ensure the safety of the occupants within the home. Thomas has been with the Town of Brookhaven Division of Fire Prevention for just over one year, and exemplifies professionalism, expertise, and compassion for the job. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Fire Academy Foundation Gets $30G Donation On June 6, 2017, Joseph and Barbara DiBernardo presented a $30,000 check to the Fire Academy Foundation in memory of their son, FDNY Lieutenant Joseph ‘Joey’ DiBernardo. These funds will be used to purchase a new Flashover Simulator at the Suffolk County Fire Academy. (Left to right): Fire News Editor Dennis Whittam, John Sipala, William Sanok, Ronald Barz, Arthur Bloom, Joseph DiBernardo, Barbara DiBernardo, Ed Johnston, Robert Holley. - Fire News photo by Bob Kutch
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New Hyde Park Memorial Day The New Hyde Park Fire Department marching in the annual New Hyde Park Memorial Day parade. - Fire News photo by Steve Takacs
Fire News at the Races Recently, Fire News photographer and Pocono International Raceway photographer Michael Heller caught members of the PIR fire crew catching up on some reading during the recent HOT training at Pocono Raceway for the 2017 NASCAR racing season. - Fire News photo by Michael Heller
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The Paramount #6 in Club Venues Worldwide In the most recent issue of Pollstar Magazine, a leading publication in the concert industry, The Paramount in Huntington, was ranked sixth highest in the world for Club Venues, following the end of first quarter year-to-date 2017. The ranking was based on ticket sales from January 1, 2017, to March 31, 2017. As The Paramount continues its march to an inevitable Top 5 ranking, the venue’s Directors, Dominic Catoggio, Jim Condron, Brian Doyle and Stephen Ubertini are, “Extremely grateful to our booking partner, Live Nation; our ticketing partner, Ticketmaster; our local media partners; our hard working staff; and all of Long Island for supporting our vision and helping us to achieve this success.” In this past quarter alone, the venue hosted 10 sold out shows with Sebastian Maniscalco, two sold out shows with Tru TV’s Michael Carbonaro, three sold out shows with Long Island comics Jim Breuer and Andrew Dice Clay, along with sold out shows with Jonas Brother band- DNCE and a St. Patrick’s Day rock show with Dropkick Murphys, to name but a few. The Paramount looks forward to a fantastic lineup of musicians and comedians set to play later this year. About The Paramount: Since Opening in 2011, The Paramount has become a top live entertainment venue. Located in Huntington, The Paramount — in concert with TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank — hosts a variety of concerts, comedy, boxing and other special events. Booked by Live Nation and utilizing Ticketmaster ticketing, The Paramount hosts an average of 200 events per year. In five years since opening, The Paramount has quickly established itself as the premier live venue on Long Island — the 20th largest U.S. media market. Top artists who have taken The Paramount’s stage include: Billy Joel, Ed Sheeran, Rod Stewart, Jeff Beck, Don Henley, Joe Walsh, Steve Miller Band, Judas Priest, Willie Nelson, B.B. King, ZZ Top, Rob Thomas, Steely Dan, John Fogerty, Pitbull, Jewel, Slash, Ms. Lauryn Hill, Michael Bolton, Melissa Etheridge and many, many more Grammy-award winning entertainers. The Paramount Comedy Series has featured such names as: Sebastian Maniscalco, Kevin James, Kevin Hart, Jim Breuer, Whoopi Goldberg, Joan Rivers, Dana Carvey, Dennis Miller, Steven Wright, Rob Schneider, Weird Al Yankovic and Frank Caliendo among others. The Paramount Tribute Series regularly hosts the best tribute bands in the country to sold-out crowds, where fans can relive the sounds of their generation, spanning numerous decades and genres. In partnership with Joe DeGuardia’s STAR Boxing, The Paramount has hosted multiple nationally televised live bouts as part of our “Rockin' Fights” Series and is the hometown venue for former WBO Welterweight Champion Chris Algieri, “The Pride of Huntington.” The Paramount has the versatility to host live events in a standing, hybrid or fully-seated configuration in our 1,573-capacity venue featuring; a large main upper level dance floor, fixed side loge-balcony seating, mezzanine seating and a Skybar. The venue’s ambiance and intimacy have amazed bands, their fans and guests alike — especially the lower level 450-capacity V.I.P. Founder’s Room, styled as a 1920s speakeasy with private rooms. The Paramount also hosts numerous special events including; weddings, sweet 16s, bar/bat mitzvahs, fundraisers and corporate rentals. Located adjacent to the venue lobby, The Paramount features a state of the art radio studio inside the facility. In partnership with Connoisseur Media Long Island, The Studio @ The Paramount offers the artists who play the room a platform to promote their music to over 1.6 million of CMLI’s weekly radio listeners on any of their five stations; WALK 97.5, K-98.3 FM, The New 103.1 MAX FM, 94-3 The Shark and WHLI 1100/1370. With street-side views, The Studio @ The Paramount provides an opportunity for fans to watch their favorite stars being interviewed by local DJs up close and personal or performing LIVE on-air. The Paramount will continue to present the best in live events and offer once-in-a lifetime experiences for our fans and the local community. The venue donates numerous concert tickets to many local charity groups, hosts annual blood drives and executes regular food drives. The Paramount strives to provide the best customer service and showcase quality entertainment for Long Islanders.
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Bohemia Celebrates Memorial Day
The Bohemia community commemorated this year’s Memorial Day with a moving service held at the Bohemia Fire Department’s main headquarters. The service was facilitated by Senator Thomas Croci and Sterling Haynes, Chief of the Bohemia Fire Department. The Connetquot High School Choir performed the National Anthem along with a heartfelt rendition of America the Beautiful. There was also a color guard procession led by the U.S. Marines and a special tribute was given to each veteran in attendance, along with a patriotic bouquet of flowers. During the service, the Joseph Kovarik American Legion Post 1146 and veterans were honored with the Bohemia Fire Department’s Edward E. Krepela Citizen of the Year award in addition to a special proclamation presented by Legislator Bill Lindsay. Even with inclement weather, the community came out in large numbers to recognize and honor those men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice so we can enjoy the many freedoms we share today. -Fire News photos by Ron Pacchiana
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Nassau Co. Commissioners Installation
Hempstead Town Councilman Anthony D’Esposito presented official Town of Hempstead Citations to honorees during the dinner held at Bellmore Fire Department on Pettit Avenue. (Left to right): are Chris Shelton of Oceanside, Councilman D’Esposito, Outgoing Chairman Denis Collins of Point Lookout, Incoming Chairman John Fabian of Merrick, Legislator Steven Rhoads and Nassau County Fire/EMS Academy VEEB Director Raymond Maguire of Freeport. - Fire News photo provided
Always on Duty: Manorville’s Thomas Honored for Save On April 26, 2017, while on vacation in Ireland, Officers Matthew Thomas and Matthew Gilhooley were visiting PF McCarthy’s Pub in Kenmare, County Kerry, when a 71-yearold man suddenly fell from his chair, collapsing on the floor. Both men, who are Certified First Responders, immediately went into action. Together they worked to resuscitate the man for 15 straight minutes before local authorities arrived, saving his life. Legislator Kate Browning (WF-Shirley) recently recognized Officer Thomas, who is also a volunteer with the Manorville Fire Department, with a proclamation to thank him for his life saving actions. Officer Thomas has been a member of the Port Authority Police Department for four years and an active member of the Manorville Fire Department since July 11, 2005. While serving as a volunteer fireman he has held the position of Captain Company 3 and Lieutenant Company 3. - Fire News photo provided
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MOTLEY CREWS OF THE MONTH
Members of Freeport Hose Company 5 on Memorial Day, May 29, 2017. - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com
Members of Oceanside Columbia Engine Company 1 on May 28, 2017. This year marks the company’s 115th anniversary. - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com
Members of Long Beach Engine 2342 at their annual rig inspection on May 27, 2017. - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com
Members of Brentwood Truck Company 1 taking a bow after the second working fire of the day. - Fire News photo by John Ippolito, Jr.
The crew of Saint James Engine 431 at the scene of a chimney fire on Chardonnay Road in Smithtown on May 4, 2017. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
Members of the Manorville and Mattituck Fire Departments at the funeral of the Riverhead Fire Department’s Richard Ligon. - Fire News photo by Michael Heller
Wantagh Rescue Company at the scene of a house fire. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
The Levittown Fire Department’s Ladies Auxiliary at a recent job. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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Up Close & Personal
Farmingville Chief of Department Dave Smith and his wife Debi. - Fire News photo by Amanda Coffey
Farmingville Assistant Chief Gus Grammenos and his wife Melinda. - Fire News photo by Amanda Coffey
Farmingville Assistant Chief Dominic Russo and his wife, Ginger. - Fire News photo by Amanda Coffey
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FDSOA APPARATUS SYMPOSIUM CELEBRATES 30TH ANNIVERSARY The Fire Department Safety Officers Association (FDSOA) Annual Apparatus Maintenance and Specification Symposium will celebrate its 30th Anniversary January 15-17, 2018, in Scottsdale, Arizona. The first symposium was created after a series of meetings initiated by the International Association of Fire Chiefs’ staff, fire chiefs, several state mechanics’ associations and the Fire Apparatus Manufacturers Association to address issues concerning apparatus, maintenance and maintenance personnel. I n 1 9 8 8 , the f ir st Appa r a tus Maintenance and Specification Symposium was held in Fort Worth, Texas, through the efforts of Fire Chief Larry McMillen, Fort Worth Fire Department, Bob Barraclough, Span Instruments, and Mary McCormack, International Society of Fire Service Instructors (ISFSI). In 1989, after the Fire Department Safety Officers Association (FDSOA) was established as a subsidiary of the ISFSI, the Apparatus Symposium was moved to a hotel on Sandlake Road in Orlando, Florida. The symposium was designed to be educational and limited
to table tops, not exhibits. Topics covered a range from preventive maintenance efforts to issues of liability and new safety standards. As the conference grew, it moved to the Rosen Plaza hotel on International Drive. In 2013, the FDSOA headquarters were moved from Massachusetts to Michigan, and the Apparatus Symposium and the annual Safety Forum are co-located and held the same week, alternating between Orlando and Scottsdale, AZ. “Thirty years is a major accomplishment to sustain a very unique conference,” said Rich Marinucci, executive director for FDSOA. “Fire apparatus has changed significantly over the past thirty years and most importantly, the focus on safer apparatus for fire and EMS personnel. FDSOA is proud to continue to support improvements and education in safety.” The 30th FDSOA Annual Apparatus Maintenance and Specification Symposium will feature keynote speakers: Brad Pinsky, attorney and fire chief; Garry Briese, executive director, Colorado State Fire Chiefs; and Chief Bruce Varner (ret.). For further details: Rich Marinucci, e-mail: fdsoa@fdsoa.org.
VIRTUAL REALITY ACTIVITY AT FDIC INTERNATIONAL 2017 RAISES $25,000 FOR TERRY FARRELL FIREFIGHTERS FUND Globe Donates Funds from New Turnout Gear Launch Activity Globe Manufacturing Company continued its partnership with the Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund at FDIC International 2017, the nation’s largest firefighter training conference and exhibition held April 27-29 in Indianapolis. FDIC was Globe’s official launch of ATHLETIX™, the world’s first turnout gear with stretch. Attendees were invited to experience the unprecedented range of motion that is possible with the new ATHLETIX™ gear in a virtual reality experience for firefighters in the booth. Firefighters then spun a wheel to determine a donation – $10, $20, $50, or $100 — to the Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund in their name. Globe raised and donated $25,000 to the Fund. “The Terry Fund appreciates the great partnership we have with Globe. Globe not only makes some of the best and most innovative fire gear on the market today but also strongly supports the fire service through its direct assistance to the Terry Fund,” said Brian Farrell, chairman of the Terry Farrell
Firefighters Fund and brother of Terry Farrell. “Firefighters across America also directly benefit from the awareness that Globe brings to the Fund.” “At Globe, we are celebrating 130 years of innovation this year,” said Rob Freese, senior vice president of marketing at Globe Manufacturing Company. “We have always given back to the fire service and are proud to partner with the Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund, a hard working group of volunteers that assists firefighters, families, and fire departments across the nation in their times of need.” About Globe Firefighters need to be prepared to perform at the maximum of their ability, on every call. That’s why Globe delivers the most advanced, best-fitting, and longest lasting protection by listening to our customers, creating breakthrough designs, and applying the engineering skills of the nation’s most trusted turnout gear manufacturer. Globe turnout gear
is designed to protect you, move with you, and improve your performance. It’s athletic gear for firefighters. Learn more at www.globeturnoutgear.com. About the Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund The Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund is made of up firefighters and family members who volunteer their time and energy to help fellow brothers, sisters and departments in need. The fund operates annually on a budget of one to three percent and sustains itself through fundraising and the donations of individuals, fire departments and corporate sponsors. Contributions to the fund are tax deductible. National chapters are in Alabama, California, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Las Vegas, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Texas. Terry Farrell was a father, a husband, a brother, and a dedicated firefighter who lost his life on September 11, 2001, during the World Trade Center attack. Learn more at www.terryfund.org.
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Fire News, July 2017, Page 83
Brookhaven Chiefs Council
Congratulations to President John Bartnik of the Brookhaven Town Fire Chiefs Council as he leads the council in 2017. Good luck to 1st Vice President Tom Connors, 2nd Vice President William Savage, 3rd Vice President Jeff Bailes, Sergeant-at-Arms John DeVito, Treasurer Joe Danowski, and Secretary Frank Scibilia, as they assist President Bartnik with the Council. Thanks you to Suffolk County FRES Commissioner Joe Williams for swearing in the 2017 council. Congratulations to Manorville Chief of Department Sal D’Amato on being recognized the 2016 Chief of the Year. On August 21, 2016, Chief
D’Amato, along with his department and mutual aid departments operated at a horrific fatal motor vehicle accident on the Long Island Expressway which involved four fatalities. After the call was over, Chief D’Amato made sure all responders at the call were debriefed as he followed through with Critical Incident Stress Management, insuring any concerns about the call were identified, so his responders and their families could continue to respond with confidence at future calls. Congratulations and well done Manorville Chief of Department Sal D’Amato. - Fire News photos by Ron Monteleone
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Blessing of the Bikes Each year for the start of the motorcycling season, the members of Nassau Country Fire Riders MC along with friends get together at Grace Church in Massapequa for their annual Blessing of the Bikes. - Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
Oyster Bay Salutes Ex-Chief Fred Penna Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino joined with his colleagues in recognizing North Massapequa Fire Department ex-Chief Fred Penna (fifth from right) for his incredible 70 years of service to the North Massapequa Fire Department. Ex-Chief Penna served as Captain of Hose and Engine Company 2, before ascending to the prestigious rank of Chief of Department. He also served as Commissioner of the North Massapequa Fire District. A United States Army veteran, Penna hails from a family steeped in the tradition of volunteering with the North Massapequa Fire Department. His father, Henry Penna Sr. served as Chief of Department in 1940. His brothers John, Henry, Eugene and his son, Fred Penna, Jr. all volunteered with the department. - Fire News photo provided
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Huntington Fire Police Meeting On April 12, 2017, a special Huntington Fire Police meeting was held at the Dix Hills Fire Department. President Thomas Smyth was introduced and greeted the members. He then introduced the guest speaker George Roach, an Elder Law attorney who spoke on the importance of having an elder law attorney. Huntington Town Clerk and Honorary Member Jo Ann Raia was introduced and swore in Deacon Edward Billia, Treasurer Edward Kelly, Secretary Brian Olfson, Sergeant-at-Arms Jeff Bressler; President Thomas Smyth (Vice-President Steven Lauschus was not present). All were also presented with Certificates of Appreciation by
Town Clerk Jo Ann Raia. The Trustees present were Richard A. Kondenar, Gary J. Ruggerio, Giovanni V. Chiarelli and Douglas K. Kronenberg Town Clerk Raia was then presented with a Proclamation from President Thomas Smyth. Participating departments were Centerport, Cold Spring Harbor, Commack, Dix Hills, East Northport, Eatons Neck, Greenlawn, Halesite, Hauppauge, Huntington, Huntington Manor, Kings Park, Melville, Nesconset, Northport and Smthtown. - Fire News photos by Tom Pesce
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Medford 2017 Installation The Medford Fire Department recently held their 95th Annual Installation Dinner at East Wind Caterers. Congratulations to Chief of Department Anthony P. Maneri along with 1st Assistant Chief Wilfredo Garcia and 2nd Assistant Chief Franklin D. Rivera, Jr. - Fire News photos by Ron Monteleone
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Fire News, July 2017, Page 89
Bethpage-Jones Beach Air Show
The 14th 2017 Bethpage Federal Jones Beach Air Show was held May 27 and 28, 2017. Officials estimated crowds at 128,000 on Saturday and 121,000 on Sunday. Despite the smaller crowds, The Wantagh Fire Department and mutual aid departments were kept busy. On Saturday, there were 12 EMS-related calls for assistance that resulted in eight people being transported to area hospitals and three refusing medical transport. Most of the injuries were relatively minor, howeve, a 12-year-old boy sustained a serious injury while on his boat, prompting a call for assistance for the US Coast Guard and Wantagh Marine Unit to respond. Rescuers on Marine One included Lieutenant William Van Leer, Firefighters Eric Paine and Jonathan Marino and EMT Sam Golman. Once located, the victim was transferred to Marine
One with assistance from the US Coast Guard and NCPD Marine Bureau, taken to shore and transferred to an awaiting ambulance from the Wantagh-Levittown Volunteer Ambulance Corps. On Sunday, there were 10 EMS-related alarms in which five people were transported and four people refused medical attention. During the course of the Air Show there were three alarms on Saturday and two on Sunday back on the “mainland� in the confines of the Wantagh Fire District. The Wantagh Fire Department offers their thanks to all of the departments that assisted in providing protection for the thousands of people that attended the show. - Fire News photos by Kevin Regan, Wantagh FD PIO
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Obituary
Richie Ligon Answers Last Alarm The Riverhead Fire Department and the world of firematic racing, mourn the loss of pastCommissioner Richard Ligon. Richie joined the Riverhead Fire Department in 1977, and rose to the rank of captain in the Redbird Hook and Ladder Company and was later elected a commissioner of the Riverhead Fire District. Richie Ligon was a dedicated firefighter who was well-known throughout New York State for his service in many different firefighting organizations. In Riverhead, he served as fire district commissioner from 2000 to 2004. He was Riverhead Firefighter of the Year in 1993. He was Redbird of the year in 1988, 1993 and 2008 and served as captain of the Ironman Racing Team. Ligon remained an active firefighter and one of the department’s top responders. Ligon was also president of the North Fork Volunteer Fireman's Association from 2012 to 2014 and a pastPresident of Suffolk County Drill Officials. He was also area representative to the New York State Parade and Drill Team Captain's Association. Richie Ligon, a U.S. Navy veteran, worked as a letter carrier with the U.S. Postal Service. He is survived by a daughter and a grandson. - Fire News photos by Michael Heller
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Fire News, July 2017, Page 91
Obituary
Honorary Chief Don Schluter
Honorary Chief Schluter joined the Rockville Centre Fire Department Woodlands Engine Company 4 in November 1969. Don served in numerous positions and committees within the department including canteen, nominating, delegate to the board of instruction, Assistant Chief chauffeur, chief chauffeur and long-time member of the Woodlands drill team. Don was an active member of the Nassau County Fire Riders partaking in many charitable motorcycle rides to assist those in need. In 1975, after severing as recording secretary for two years, Don was elected 2nd Lieutenant, in 1977, first Lieutenant and, in 1979, Captain, serving in that position until 1981. From 1983 through 2017 Don was the Financial Secretary. From 1990 through 2012 Don served on the company’s Board of Directors and from 2012 through 2017, he represented Woodlands Company on the Department Council as a Warden. Over 47 years as an active member of Woodland’s Engine Company 4, Don was consistently at the top of percentage in calls made. - Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
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East Rockaway at Huckleberry Parade East Rockaway Fire Department marching in the annual East Rockaway Huckleberry parade. - Fire News photo by Steve Takacs
Welcoming Home the Vets The Westhampton Beach Fire Department Juniors and advisors attended an Honor Flight at Islip MacArthur Airport on May 6, 2017. There were hundreds of well wishes welcoming the veterans back home. (Back): Paul Hoyle, Nancy Lynch, Bob Cooke, Bobby Votino, Dave Slover, Floyd Tyso and John Cable. (Front): Claudia LaDu, Natalie Runowski, Ethan Cooke, Benjamin Cooke, Dillion Canovan and Danny Slover. - Fire News photo by Cody Hoyle
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Wounded Soldier Visits Firehouse US Army Sergeant Robert Scott, Jr., of Rockville Centre (center), and his family stopped by Lynbrook’s Vulcan Company’s firehouse on Denton Avenue with his family on Memorial Day. Sergeant Scott, seriously injured in Afghanistan and presently receiving treatment at the Wounded Warrior Battalion at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, has been helped by the firefighters from Nassau County Firefighters Operation Wounded Warrior (NCFF-OWW). Sgt. Scott and his family are guests each year at the Lynbrook Fire Department’s Concert for the Troops which raises money for NCFF-OWW to help him and other wounded warriors. (Right): Lynbrook Fire Chief Carl Lengel, extreme right, joins with (left to right): Mary Cash, LFD Ladies Auxiliary; Lynne Donnelly, LFD Ladies Auxiliary; Robert Scott, Sr.; Sgt. Robert Scott, Jr.; Valence Scott; and Steve Grogan, Vice Chairman, NCFF-OWW. - Fire News photo courtesy of the NCFF-OWW
Fourth Battalion Firefighters Support Burn Center On March 19, 2017, the Fourth Battalion Fire District; which includes the East Rockaway, Lakeview, Lynbrook, Malverne and Rockville Centre Fire Departments; held their annual fundraiser to benefit the Nassau County Firefighters Burn Center at Nassau University Medical Center. This year’s event was held at the Porthole Restaurant in Oceanside. (Battalion delegates (left to right): Patrick Darcy, Malverne Fire Department; Mark Murray, Rockville Centre FD; Bob Klose (Secretary), East Rockaway; Joe Mihalich, East Rockaway; John Hennig (Chairman), Rockville Center; and John O’Reilly, Lynbrook; got together for a photo during the event. The local band “Switch,” and the Nassau County Firefighters Pipes and Drums, donated their time and talent during the fundraiser. - Fire News photo by Brian Grogan
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Suffolk FRES Coordinators Training The Suffolk County Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services (FRES) recently conducted a Fire Coordinator inservice training session at the Mastic Fire Department. Suffolk FRES Commissioner Joe Williams welcomed the coordinators, and thanked them for their dedicated service in providing vital assistance to the county's fire departments and EMS agencies. Deputy Commissioner John Jordan discussed the Active Shooter Program that is in development with the Suffolk County Police Department. Chief Coordinator Greg James began with an introduction of new fire coordinators and gave a presentation of on scene operations. Assistant Chief Rudy Sunderman gave a presentation of on scene size-up and mutual aid requests, with Assistant Chief Jack Blaum going over radio communications procedures. Chief Joel Vetter (FRES) gave a presentation on available county resources and the operations of the new Mobile Command Post. Joe Gilliard of National Grid gave an overview of gas emergencies and notification procedures. Ellen Komosinski of Suffolk County EMS went over the deployment of the Critical Incident Stress Team. Thanks to Chief Rudy Sunderman and the Mastic Fire Department for their hospitality in hosting the meeting. - Fire News photos by Steve Silverman
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