VOLUME XLV, NO. 12
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Since 1973 AUGUST 2018
Story on page 6. - Fire News photo by Dennis Whittam
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In this issue... A Service for Long Island Firefighters and EMS Heroes
Syosset Club Fire Crews handle an early-morning blaze at the North Ritz Club on Jericho Turnpike. See story page 10
Suspicious Fire in Farmingville Firefighters arrive to two fully-engulfed cars, but stop the fire from extending to the home. See story page 24
Fire on the Tracks in Locust Valley Standby crews from Farmingdale and East Meadow handle 1000-plus feet of trackside fire. See story page 33
Racing Coverage Nassau Tri-Town, Lindenhurst, Central Islip Juniors and more. See stories on pages 56-60
North Patchogue Christens New Quint New Pierce apparatus to be named in honor of Navy SEAL Lt. Michael Murphy.
See story page 76
Obituaries New Hyde Park’s Karl Bumeisters
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 Graphic Artist: GREG JONES, JEB LADOUCEUR, Publisher Emeritus CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: Vinnie Ammirati, Tim Asbell, Bill Bennett, Dennis Berger, 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, Tom Lambui, 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, 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, Steve Walsh, 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 2018, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
Are You Organized? The alarm sounds and the dispatcher informs you that you have a reported structure fire with police at the scene stating that flames are visible. Your heart starts to race as you drop what you are doing to fill out the crew. You run to your gear rack and don your PPE as the truck is starting up. Your officer shouts at the slowpokes who seem to be dilly-dallying getting suited up. You barely make the truck, but regardless, you made it and are heading to what is now a confirmed working fire. The experienced responder stays calm and monitors his radio, keeping the volume down very low to prevent feedback, as the officer is listening intently to his orders as your truck nears the scene of the fire. Yes, you are going to work! As the truck stops and you carefully exit the crew cab, you get a sick feeling. Crap! I forgot my helmet. What! How do you forget your helmet? Do you know anyone this has happened to? Scenarios like the one I just cited happen. They happen because you may not be as organized as you think. I always encourage probationary firefighters to practice donning their gear. I also encourage them to give
thought about laying out their gear on their firehouse rack in a systematic way, so that each time they put their gear on, it is done exactly the same way. I am sure every one of you has a procedure that works for you. No matter what your job is, all of your turnout gear is necessary. You can’t forget your hood, gloves, helmet or other specialized equipment necessary to do your job. I have seen members don their SCBA while responding to a call and find out when they got off of the truck that their air bottle was empty. How did this happen? You checked it at truck maintenance and it was full. You turned your bottle on while responding to the call to check that you had a full bottle of air. What happened? Maybe you left your bottle on while responding to the call and in your haste; you accidently turned your purge valve, draining your bottle on the ride to the fire. Yes, it is embarrassing when you show up at a call and realize you forgot your helmet, lost a glove or had no air in your tank when you arrived. Now understand, what I cited doesn’t normally happen. But I will bet every responder
knows of stories where members were not organized and had problems with equipment from one call to the next. Let’s face it, mistakes happen, especially when you are not a seasoned responder. What can you do to prevent careless mistakes? The answer is simple. Stay calm and be organized! Know what you have in each pocket of your gear and practice a strict routine for donning your gear. Gear-up the same way every time you respond to a call. Check your equipment after every call and before every shift. A strict routine that is practiced over and over is a must! -Dennis
Clutter Hampers Overhaul in Malverne
The Malverne Fire Department responded to the report of a house fire on July 1, 2018. On arrival at the Wood Avenue address, units found a small fire in a bedroom of the 1-1/2 story home. The blaze was quickly extinguished but overhauling operations were hampered by a clutter condition. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Quick Stop at Bethpage Garage Fire
On June 28, 2018, just before midnight, the Bethpage Fire the house and Engine 905 stretched one line through a yard to proDepartment was alerted for a garage fire at Sherman Avenue and tect the exposure. Crews had the fire extinguished and overhauled - Fire News photos by Kevin Imm 1st Street. Third Assistant Chief Frank Debobes, Jr., confirmed a in about 20 minutes. garage fire. Engine 907 stretched a line, Ladder 4 set up in front of
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Cover Story
Boat Burns in Port Jefferson Harbor
On July 1, 2018, a boat caught fire near Danford’s Marina in Port Jefferson. The fire was immediately reported to the Port Jefferson Fire Department by off-duty Lake Grove Chief Fire Marshal Andrew Brofman, who was near the dock at the time. The call resulted in an immediate response by the Port Jefferson Fire Department and their Marine Unit. Port Jefferson Second Assistant Fire Chief Anthony Barton took command of the fully involved boat fire that was “free standing” near the docking area and was very close to other vessels. The Marine Unit was able to pull the burning vessel away from the dock, so they could battle the fire and prevent the flames from spreading to additional boats. Chief of Department
Brennan Holmes worked hard with their crew to move the burning boat toward a beach, where handlines could also assist in knocking down the fire. The fire was brought under control with help from Setauket, Terryville and Mount Sinai. Port Jefferson EMS provided patient care and firefighter rehab at the scene. The four occupants on the boat, who jumped into the water were rescued by an off-duty Suffolk County Police officer, who was on his vessel at the time of the incident. The people on the boat were treated for minor burns and smoke inhalation. - Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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North Babylon KO’s Tractor Fire
On May 9, 2018, the North Babylon Fire Company responded to a fully involved lawn tractor at the North Babylon Woods Road School. North Babylon made a quick stop of the fire. - Fire News photos by BTFirePhoto.com
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Flames Visible in Hauppauge
The Hauppauge Fire Department responded to a house fire on Swallow Lane in Hauppauge on May 6, 2018 at 0202. Upon arrival, flames were visible from the front of the home near the garage. Mutual aid companies from Commack and Smithtown responded along with Central Islip Hauppauge Ambulance. The fire was brought under control within 30 minutes and the occupants were able to safely evacuate. Suffolk Police and Smithtown Town Fire Marshal investigated the cause. -Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber and Bryan Lopez
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Syosset Club Fire The Syosset Fire Department was called to a building fire at the North Ritz Club on Jericho Turnpike about 0430 on May 20, 2018. First arriving units found fire showing from the exterior of the building in the roof area on the exposure 1-2 corner. Engine 585 and other arriving engine crews stretched three lines. Ladder 582 set up in front of the building and, along with mutual aid crews, used multiple saws to cut open sections of the roof and facade to expose the fire. It took about an hour to bring the fire under control and keep it contained to the roof area. Mutual aid was provided to the scene and for standby from Plainview, Jericho, Westbury, Hicksville, Oyster Bay, East Norwich and Levittown. There were no injuries and the cause of the fire was under investigation. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
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7-11 Goes in Wantagh At 0137 on May 11, 2018, Wantagh Fire Dispatcher Lauren Fortuna received calls reporting a fire at the 7-11 located on Sandhill Road in Wantagh. First Assistant Chief Ken Kelly ordered a general alarm and also requested a mutual aid ladder company. Chief Kelly, Second Assistant Chief Tom Bloomfield and Third Assistant Chief Lenny Mathewson arrived. Engine 4, under the command of Captain Rich Mongiello, stretched a hose line to the front of the building. They were joined by the crew of Engine 7, led by Captain Dan Brandon. Due to the heavy volume of fire, potential for collapse and the fact that there were no occupants in the building, Chief Kelly gave the order to use master streams from Tower Ladders from Levittown and Bellmore which were set up in the front and rear of the building. Ladder 2, led by Captain Joe Borst, and Squad 1, led by Captain Bill Van Leer, worked to expose hot spots and check utilities around the building. A Medical/Rehab area was established by EMS Captain Lincke and staffed by crews from Rescues 1, 2, 3 and Rehab unit 6922. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported. Mutual aid came from Seaford, North Bellmore, Bethpage, Bellmore and Levittown, while East Meadow, North Bellmore, Levittown, North Massapequa and Massapequa stood by. All visible fire was knocked down in a little over an hour, although firefighters were on scene a little over three hours. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza, story by Kevin Regan, PIO
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Quick Knockdown in Hempstead
The Hempstead Fire Department responded to a fire in a private to the upper floors. Firefighters were able to make a quick knockdwelling on June 7, 2018. The blaze may have started in the base- down on the fire. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com ment of the split-level home on Wellington Street but quickly spread
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Solar Panel Fire in Central Islip Central Islip firefighters were alerted to a reported structure fire on Milano Avenue on June 13, 2018. Flames were reported from the roof of the structure at the location. Fire was found to involve a solar panel with extension to the second-floor bedroom. Electric power was cut and the fire was quickly brought under control, but there was smoke and water damage to the residence. Mutual aid was provided by the Hauppauge and Brentwood. - Fire News photo by Charles A. Murphy, CIFD Photo Unit
Copiague Boat Fire at Dock The Copiague Fire Department was called to a reported boat fire in the water behind a house on Kay Road on June 27, 2018. Third Assistant Chief Miller arrived find a boat fully involved at the dock with several boats near it. Chief of Department Fitch and Second Assistant Chief Nuzzi arrived shortly thereafter. Engine 1-3-9 put one line into operation. Boat 1-3-16 also responded to the canal and put its deck gun and a line into operation and kept the fire from spreading to the other boats. The fire was extinguished in about 30 minutes. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
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The Safety Officer and a Confined Space Incident As always, performance as a Safety Officer (SO) at a confined space incident (CSI) is governed by the Incident Commander (IC) and many regulations, including OSHA Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 1910.146, which requires signs and permits, and the many guides including National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 350 Guide for Safe Confined Space Entry and Work. If there is a confined space in your jurisdiction or you might respond to one on mutual aid, then preplanning is always a conclusive answer. Taking courses, which are offered free at many fire academies should be done. Every year, deaths, injuries and serious illnesses are the result of confined space incidents. Many facilities can have confined spaces - from commercial buildings and hospitals to public works, utilities, and chemical/industrial facilities — which makes the danger widespread. By law in the United States, employers must follow applicable regulations such as OSHA's 29 CFR 1910.146 and 29 CFR 1926 Subpart AA to ensure personnel safety. However, accidents happen, and the SO must be prepared with knowledge and where possible have an ISO/ASO/RT response, and a trained SO qualified for Technical Rescues. The IC is required, by law, to develop a written action plan and a site safety plan. The site safety plan could be delegated to your responsibility. The following items are required by Federal Law to be included in your report according to Dodson Fire Department Incident Safety Officer 3rd Edition 2016 and can also be included in your safety briefing: • Safety, health, and risk analysis, including entry objectives. • Site organization, including the training and qualifications of first responders • Identification of the exact Personnel Protective Equipment (PPE) required for the task. • Medical monitoring procedures • Environmental (air) monitoring • Site control measures, including control ones. • Decontamination procedures • Predefined responder emergency plans (secondary calls) • Confined space entry procedures including intervention and escape plans Included in your preplanning should be: • Identification of confined spaces • Evaluation of hazards • Atmospheric monitoring • Hazard elimination and control • Ventilation • Rescue and rescue planning • Confined space personnel duties, responsibilities, and competencies • Pre-entry evaluation forms and permits As SO and ASO/RT you should be documenting that first responders have received the safety briefing. Before tactics are applied the SO and ASO/RT should be signing off on any developing plans. Ex-Chief Jeff Bailes President Brookhaven Town Safety Officers Association, Inc. www.btsoa.org 631-495-1313
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When it Rains it ‌ You Know What We Mean On July 1, 2018, the Uniondale Fire Department and mutual aid units operated on the scene of a second-alarm house fire on Hempstead Boulevard. As those companies were operating, a call went out for Uniondale’s standby units for smoke in a house on Newton Avenue. The standby units were met with smoke showing from a two-story private dwelling. Moments later, a working fire was transmitted, making it two working fires for Uniondale in approximately 45 minutes. Firefighters found fire in the walls on the second floor of the Newton Avenue home. Freeport Hose 5 pulled first-due to the second fire and stretched two lines with one going into operation. Also on scene were engines from East Meadow and Roosevelt and ladders from Freeport and Hempstead and an ambulance from South Hempstead. - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com
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Bay Shore Fire, Cat Rescue
The Bay Shore Fire Department was called to a house fire on Richland Boulevard on June 17, 2018. On arrival, firefighters encountered heavy fire coming from the garage of a single-story home. A vehicle in the driveway also caught fire and was destroyed.
Engine 3-1-5 put multiple lines in operation, while the crew from Ladder 3-1-7 laddered, searched and vented the home. As members were searching, two cats were found and removed. Mutual aid came from West Islip and Islip. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
Central Islip House Fire
The Central Islip Fire Department responded to a house fire on Hawthorne Avenue on June 22, 2018. Second Assistant Chief Mike Zaleski arrived at a two-story wood frame residence with heavy fire showing. Seven CIFD units responded and mutual aid was provided by Hauppauge, Islip Terrace, East Brentwood, East Islip, Islip and Smithtown, as well as the Central Islip-Hauppauge Volunteer Ambulance who transported one CIFD firefighter to Stony Brook Medical Center for treatment of a minor condition. Chief Zaleski also contacted the Suffolk County Arson Squad to conduct an investigation. - Fire News photos by Charles A. Murphy, CIFD Photo Unit
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Jericho Brush Fire Snuffed
The Jericho Fire Department responded to a brush fire to the rear of Rallye Motors on Brush Hollow Road in Jericho on July 11, 2018. Engine 942 found a 50- x 50-foot area of brush along with a fence burning, stretched a handline and quickly extinguished the flames. - Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
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Electrical Fire in Supreme Court, Mineola The Garden City Fire Department was alerted for an electrical fire in the basement of the Nassau County Supreme Court building in Mineola on June 29, 2018. The building was partially evacuated while fire crews awaited emergency PSEG crews to assist with the power shut off. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com and OverTheEdgePhotography.com
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House Fire in Glen Cove On June 9, 2018, the City of Glen Cove Volunteer Fire Department responded to a report of a house fire on September Lane. Upon arrival, Chief Marino confirmed heavy fire in the front of a house. Engine 528 began the initial attack, quickly knocking down a large amount of fire from outside the house before entering to knock down the main body of fire. Four lines were stretched and placed into operation. -Fire News photos by OverTheEdgePhotography.com and K2MPhotography.com
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Suspicious Blaze in Farmingville In the early morning of June 6, 2018, the Farmingville Fire Department was activated for a car fire on Beech Avenue. Assistant Chief Dom Russo was met with two fully engulfed vehicles in the driveway of a home with wires down. The crew of Engine 2 made a quick knockdown of the fire and prevented any extension to the structure. No injuries were reported. Suffolk County Police Arson Squad detectives were called to investigate. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Melville Tackles LIE Truck Fire The Melville Fire Department responded to a truck fire on the Long Island Expressway eastbound lanes near the Route 110 exit on May 10, 2018. The fire started in the brakes of a double-trailer truck loaded with carpeting and was contained to the tires and outer walls of the trailer. Two engines and an ambulance were dispatched under the command of First Assistant Chief David Kaplan. Crews quickly extinguished the fire and there were no injuries reported. - Fire News story by Steve Silverman, photo courtesy Melville FD
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Terryville Saves Catering Hall
On July 14, 2018, at 0200, the Terryville Fire Department was called to the Meadow Club, a popular catering hall, located on Route 112 in Port Jefferson Station, after getting reports of smoke and flames coming from the building. Units were met with fire from the second floor of the sprawling two-story wood frame building. Mutual aid
responded from multiple area departments. There was severe fire, smoke and water damage to the main part of the building. The Town of Brookhaven Fire Marshal and Suffolk Police Arson Squad were called to investigate. - Fire News photo by AJ Ryan
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Smoke Shows in Westbury
On the night of June 29, 2018, the Westbury Fire Department was called to a structure fire on Rockland Street off Powells Lane. Firefighters were met with smoke showing from a private dwelling. One handline was put into operation to knock down the fire which was contained to a first-floor kitchen. Fire units were under the command of Westbury Second Assistant Chief Carr. - Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com and Kevin Imm
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Electrical Box Fire in Central Islip
Chief Patrick Murphy and 26 Central Islip firefighters responded and water damage as well. Both the Suffolk County Arson Squad to a structure fire on Ralph Avenue early on June 29, 2018. The fire and Town of Islip Fire Marshall’s Office were summoned to the was found to be involving the meter box and electric panel. The fire scene to investigate. - Fire News photo by Charles A. Murphy, CIFD Photo Unit was contained to that area of the home, but there was some smoke
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Arson Investigation in Plainview On June 15, 2018, the Plainview Fire Department was alerted for a car fire in the driveway of a Nassau Avenue home. The fire was extinguished by the homeowner and the Fire Marshal’s office was called to investigate what appeared to be a flammable liquid that had been thrown on the car and ignited. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
Truck Fire in Bethpage On June 26, 2018, the Bethpage Fire Department responded to a truck fire on South Central Avenue. The fire was extinguished by employees and crews secured the truck and applied drying agent to a small fuel leak. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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A Long Stretch in Stony Brook
On July 10, 2018, the Stony Brook Fire Department was activated aggressive attack, the fire was contained to that vessel. Firefighters for a boat fire at the Stony Brook Yacht Club. Firefighters had to from Port Jefferson, Setauket and the St. James assisted with call. - Fire News photo by Dennis Whittam make a very long stretch in order to reach the vessel from which heavy smoke was emanating. Thanks to a quick response and an
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Arson … and Then Some … in Wyandanch The Wyandanch Fire Company was called to the rear of Tony’s Tire Service on Long Island Avenue just before 0300 on June 6, 2018, for a report of several cars on fire. Firefighters arrived to find two pickup trucks fully involved and two other vehicles beginning to burn. Crews put two lines into operation to extinguish the fires in about 30 minutes. While fighting the vehicle fires, additional units were diverted to Station Plaza for a reported fire in an unoccupied store, which was quickly extinguished by the crew from Engine 1-10-2 and minipumper Rescue 1-10-8. Mutual aid to the store fire was provided by North Babylon, East Farmingdale and Deer Park. While operating on this scene, the Deer Park Fire Department was called to a boat fire in the front yard of a house on Lake Avenue. A total of seven fires were set that night by the same person, and there was an attempted burglary and fire at a gas station. The arsonist was caught later in the month after setting fire to multiple vehicles in Deer Park. Wyandanch Chief of Department Deangelis was in charge. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
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Mutual Aid Works
On June 16, 2018, the Locust Valley Fire Department was called for a report of a brush fire on the tracks in the vicinity of Meadow Lane. Locust Valley was hosting the 5th Battalion Parade and Drill, so standby units from Farmingdale and East Meadow responded and confirmed multiple brush fires along an over-1000foot section next to the tracks. After obtaining a railroad stop order, crews began stretching over 1000 feet of attack line through the woods. With limited water sources in the area, mutual aid tankers were requested from Bayville and Atlantic Steamer, and brush trucks from East Norwich and Glenwood. Units operated on the scene for about three hours. -Fire News photos by OverTheEdgePhotography.com
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Smoke Shows in Copiague
The Copiague Fire Department was called to a house fire on Lagoon Drive West in Copiague Harbor early on June 21, 2018. Chief of Department Fitch arrived to smoke showing from the house. Third Assistant Chief Miller arrived shortly after and handled the fire attack on a three-car garage, which extended to the second floor of the three-story house. The occupants exited after hearing their smoke detector and were uninjured. Engines 1-3-9 and 1-3-7 stretched and operated three handlines. The crew from Ladder 1-3-4 laddered and vented the house. The fire was brought under control within an hour. Amityville and Lindenhurst responded on mutual aid. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
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Electrical Fire Sparks Blaze in Syosset
On June 12, 2018, the Syosset Fire Department responded to a report of an electrical emergency on Orchard Drive. Tower Ladder 582 and Engine 584 arrived and began stretching the initial attack lines to the structure. Four lines were stretched with three placed into operation. Extensive overhaul was conducted by crews and mutual aid crews. -Fire News photo by OverTheEdgePhotography.com
Great Neck House Fire
The Great Neck Fire Department was toned out for a house fire on Warwick Road on July 3, 2018. Arriving companies found a heavy smoke condition on the first floor of what was later discovered to be an historic home. The blaze was quickly put out but numerous animals were found in the home. It was reported that the residents were away on vacation. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Heavy Fire in Westbury
The Westbury Fire Department responded to a house fire on Winthrop Street in Westbury on June 18, 2018. Firefighters discovered a heavy fire condition on the second floor. Several occupants were able to safely evacuate the home without injury. A dog was rescued by firefighters and treated at the scene. Mutual aid came from Hicksville, Carle Place, East Meadow, Bethpage and Jericho. - Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
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EMS ACROSS THE ISLAND
Worker Injured in Fall into Swimming Pool
The Dix Hills Fire Department was called to assist a man injured after falling into an empty swimming pool at a home on Carman Road on June 20, 2018. Dix Hills units arrived to find the patient had been removed from the pool by fellow workers. Rescue crews treated the man who was transported to Huntington Hospital by Dix Hills Rescue Squad ambulance with a leg injury. Crews were under the command of First Assistant Chief Alan Berkowitz. - Fire News photos by Steve Silverman
ATV Overturns in Bethpage
On June 26, 2018, the Bethpage Fire Department responded to a response for an ambulance. A teenager had lost control of the ATV report of an overturned ATV with person trapped underneath it on and flipped over sustaining serious injuries. He was transported to Lincoln Boulevard. Responding units were notified for a forthwith Nassau University Medical Center. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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Melville Limo Crash Injures 6
The Melville Fire Department responded to a head-on MVA involv- Department, with assistance from Dix Hills and Plainview, transing a limousine and a sedan on Wilmington Drive on July 1, 2018. ported the patients. Units were under the command of Assistant The driver and five passengers in the limo suffered injuries, and Chiefs David Kaplan and Jason Bernfeld. - Fire News photos by Steve Silverman were transported to the Nassau University Medical Center and and Paul Mazza Huntington Hospital. Ambulances from the Melville Fire
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Northport PWC Accident
The Northport Fire Department, Asharoken Police, Suffolk County Police, and the Huntington Harbor Master responded to a personal watercraft accident at Asharoken Beach on July 4, 2018. Two females, ages 17 and 22, suffered injuries when the tow rope pulling a tube became entangled around their legs. Both patients suffered leg lacerations and were transported to Huntington Hospital by Northport Fire Department Ambulances. - Fire News photos by Steve Silverman
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Bicyclist Injured in Melville Crash
The Melville Fire Department responded to assist a bicyclist injured in a collision with a car on Bagatelle Road and the North Service Road on June 19, 2018. Melville crews were under the command of Assistant Chiefs David Kaplan and Bill Schmitt. The patient was transported to Stony Brook University Hospital by Suffolk Police helicopter, which landed at the nearby Chestnut Hill School. - Fire News story by Steve Silverman, photos courtesy Melville FD
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Multi-Unit Water Rescue Drill
Fire departments from the Town of Smithtown along with Stony Brook, Town of Smithtown public safety resources and the Bay Constable participated in a multi-unit water rescue drill held on June 24, 2018. Agencies staged at Long Beach Park in Nissequogue and deployed their resources in Stony Brook Harbor. Surface water
rescue teams, rescue boats along with SCUBA divers drilled on various rescue techniques to fine tune proficiency. A team of SAR dogs practiced search and rescue by tracking down scent of possible victims on the beach and shore line. - Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
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3 Injured in Bay Shore MVA The Bay Shore Fire Department, Bay ShoreBrightwaters Ambulance and Suffolk Police responded to an accident at the intersection of Union Boulevard and Penataquit Avenue in Bay Shore on June 25, 2018. Two vehicles collided, with one overturning and trapping the driver. Firefighters used hydraulic extrication tools to free a woman in 15 minutes. A driver and passenger in the second vehicle were also injured. The three injured were transported by Bay Shore Brightwaters Ambulances to Southside Hospital in Bay Shore. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
5 Injured in East Northport Overturn The East Northport Fire Department responded to an MVA on May 20, 2018, at Larkfield and Cedar Roads. The crash involved an SUV that overturned on its side and a car. One person was trapped in the SUV and extricated by firefighters using heavy rescue tools to remove the roof. Five patients were transported to Huntington Hospital with non-life threatening injuries by the East Northport Rescue Squad. Units were under the command of Chief Dan Heffernan. - Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
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Fatality at Ridge Multi-Vehicle MVA A mini-van, pick-up truck, and a motorcycle were involved in a crash on the Long Island Expressway eastbound recently. The Ridge Fire Department and Suffolk Police responded. There were numerous injured at the scene, some reportedly ejected from their vehicles. At least two people were airlifted from the scene to Stony Brook University Hospital. There was one reported fatality. - Fire News photo by LIHotShots.smugmug.com
2 Injured in Medford MVA On April 10, 2018, the Medford Fire Department was activated for an MVA at the intersection of Station Road and County Road 101. Commanding units were met with a two-car MVA with negative entrapment. The crew of Rescue 13 secured the involved vehicles, and both drivers were transported to a nearby hospital for injuries via a Medford Ambulance. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Farmingville Car vs. Tree On April 15, 2018, the Farmingville Fire Department was activated for an MVA car versus tree on Horseblock Place. upon arrival, commanding units were met with a single-car MVA with no entrapment. The crew of Rescue 8 secured the vehicle and the driver was transported to Stony Brook University Hospital for her injuries. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
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Lost Firehouses of Nassau County
Floral Park Spooner Street
One of the many “lost” firehouses still standing in Nassau County is Floral Park Reliance Engine Company 2’s 1924 American LaFrance in front of the Spooner Street firehouse they called home from 1916 to 1930. Amazingly, this small building still survives and is owned by the village, and now used as a DPW annex for storage. - Fire News photos provided by the Nassau County Firefighters Museum
Long Beach: 1975
The official start of summer was still a few days away but things were heating up in Long Beach as the department and multiple mutual aid departments battled an apartment building fire on West Park Avenue on June 13, 1975. - Fire News photo courtesy of the Nassau County Firefighters Museum
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4 Injured in Medford 3-Car MVA
The Medford Fire Department and Medford Ambulance Company were activated for an MVA on County Road 83 between Thicket Lane and Wrana Road. Crews arrived to one vehicle overturned and one car smoking with three cars involved. Three patients were transported to Stony Brook University Hospital and one was transported to Brookhaven Memorial Hospital. - Fire News photo by Steve Walsh
Syosset 3-Car MVA
On June 25, 2018, the Syosset Fire Department was alerted for an MVA on South Oyster Bay Road. Crews handled a three-car MVA, securing the cars and transporting one aided with chest pains. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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Car Crashes into Setauket House In the early morning of May 25, 2018, the Setauket Fire Department was activated for an MVA with a car into house on Valiant Drive. Upon arrival, commanding units were met with a vehicle completely into the side of a attached garage and advised negative entrapment. Command requested a fire marshal and building inspector to the scene due to significant damage. The passenger of the car was transported to Stony Brook University Hospital for his injuries via a Setauket Ambulance. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Extrication in Greenlawn The Greenlawn Fire Department responded to an accident with overturn at the intersection of Clay Pitts Road and Stratford Avenue on May 18, 2018. Two occupants were in the auto with one pinned and critically injured. Firefighters extricated the occupants and transported them to area hospitals. Foam was used as a precaution due to a gasoline leak from the auto. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
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3-Car MVA in Shirley On May 4, 2018, a three-car crash occurred on the William Floyd Parkway, just north of Robinwood Drive, just before midnight in which an SUV rolled over in the center median. The driver of the SUV was arrested and taken to the hospital. No one was reported injured in the other two cars. Responding were the Brookhaven Fire Department, Shirley Ambulance, Suffolk police and Suffolk County Parks Rangers - Fire News photo by LIHotShots.smugmug.com
Bellport MVA The Bellport Fire Department responded to an MVA at Atlantic Avenue and Station Road in Bellport. One person was injured and transported to Brookhaven Memorial Hospital Medical Center. - Fire News photo by Dennis Berger
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MVA into Structure in Roslyn
On June 18, 2018, the Roslyn Highlands and Roslyn Rescue Fire Companies were dispatched to a report of a car into a building with entrapment on Mineola Avenue. Units arrived to find a car into the corner of the building with the occupants already out. Upon further assessment, it was found that the car was through the corner and partially inside the house and the Technical Rescue Matrix was acti-
vated. Technical rescue teams from Port Washington, ManhassetLakeville, Elmont, Bethpage and Massapequa responded to the scene to shore up the structure. Multiple animals were removed from the building, which served as an animal hospital. Units operated on scene for over an hour to stabilize the structure. -Fire News photo by OverTheEdgePhotography.com
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Nassau County Tri-Town Drill June 9, 2018
Place 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th
Team Points West Hempstead 29 Oyster Bay 25 Port Washington 22 North Bellmore 14 North Merrick 9
- Fire News photos by Kim Versheck
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Lindenhurst Drill Place 1 2 3 4 5 5
June 2, 2018 Team Points West Sayville 30 North Lindenhurst 24 Islip 21 Oyster Bay 9 Lindenhurst 7 Deer Park 7
-Fire News photos by Kim Versheck
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Central Islip Junior Drill June 7, 2018
Place 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th
Team Hagerman Jrs. Bay Shore Jrs. Central Islip Jrs. Islip Jrs. West Sayville Jrs.
Points 36.5 36 24 16.5 16
- Fire News photos by Kim Versheck
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Lindenhurst Junior Drill June 3, 2018 Place 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th
Team Bay Shore Jrs. Hagerman Jrs. Central Islip Jrs. West Sayville Jrs. Lindenhurst Jrs.
Points 28 25.5 22 17.5 17
- Fire News photos by Kim Versheck
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Fire Riders Christmas in June Run On June 24, 2018, the Nassau County Fire Riders Motorcycle Club hosted their annual Christmas in June Toy Run to St. ChristopherOttilie in Sea Cliff. The Fire Riders, as well as various other motorcycle clubs, participated in this year’s run with over 250 riders. -Fire News photo by OverTheEdgePhotography.com
Central Islip’s Tom Falco Remembered Engine and Hose Company 4 of the Central Islip Fire Department dedicated a tree in memory of exChief Tom Falco in front of Station 3 on May 20, 2018. The ceremony was attended by members of the Falco family and firefighters. Ex-Chief Falco joined the CIFD in 1976 and served until his passing in 2013 for a total of 37 years of service. In addition to serving as Chief, he was also a very active member and driver of Unit 374, and also served for many years on the Fire Prevention and Tournament committees. He is still missed by all who knew him and by all who served with him. - Fire News photo by Charles A. Murphy, CIFD Photo Unit
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Annual Inspection in Sea Cliff; Hallquest Honored
On June 9, 2018, the Sea Cliff Fire Department held its annual inspection. Members from all four companies were judged on Most Men in Line, as well as Best Appearing Company. This year, Enterprise Hose Company 1 was the winner of both awards. As part of this year’s inspection, the section of Roslyn Avenue in front of the firehouse was renamed Chief Michael Hallquest Avenue in honor of Hallquest who passed away earlier this year. -Fire News photos by OverTheEdgePhotography.com
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Central Islip Installation 2018
The Central Islip Fire Department held their 112th Annual Installation of Officers dinner on April 21, 2018, at The Watermill Caterers in Smithtown. Chief of the Department Patrick C. Murphy was sworn-in as the 56th Chief of the Department along with 1st Assistant Chief Chris Portelli, 2nd Assistant Chief Mike Zaleski and 3rd Assistant Chief Vinny Plotino. Numerous awards were presented for length of service and for company officers com-
pleting their respective terms. The festivities concluded with the recognition of Irene Miller for her 60 years of faithful and dedicated service to the Central Islip Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary. A great evening was had by all in attendance. - Fire News photos by www.timeXposures.com
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50K Officers Attend Peace Officers Memorial
Over 50,000 police and peace officers returned to Washington, DC, for the 37th Annual National Peace Officers Memorial, remembering the 199 officers that were killed in the performance of their duties in 2017 and all who have fallen in the past years. - Fire News photos by Kevin Imm
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New Ride for South Farmingdale
On June 3, 2018, the South Farmingdale Fire Department hosted a wetdown for their new Ladder 978, a 2017 Spartan 103-foot rearmount aerial. The new 978 replaces a 1992 Pierce Lance 75-foot rearmount aerial. Congratulations to the South Farmingdale Fire Department on their new apparatus! -Fire News photos by OverTheEdgePhotography.com and Paul Mazza
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Melville 71st Installation
The Melville Fire Department recently held their 71st annual installation at the Crest Hollow Country Club. Christopher Nolan was installed as Chief of the Department, along with First Assistant Chief David Kaplan, Second Assistant Chief William Schmitt and Third Assistant Chief Jason Bernfeld. Company and Squad officers were installed as follows: Hose Company 1 - Captain Thomas Niemczyk, Lieutenant Donald Barclay. Hose Company No. 2 - Captain Robert Warren, Lieutenant Max Lituchy. Engine Company 3 - Captain Peter Doran, Lieutenant Douglas Moder. Rescue Squad - Captain Arthur Brice, First Lieutenant David Sparaco, Second Lieutenant Steve Ingenito. Fire Police - Captain Kenneth Low, Lieutenant David Hobart. Company awards were presented to ex-Assistant Chief Jeff Nirenberg of Hose Company 1, Geysen Rivas Campos of Hose Company 2, Theresa Fleming of Engine Company 3. Service awards for 50 years of service went to ex-Chief James Coschignano, Jr., and ex-Captain Tom Pesce. Firefighter of the Year Award was presented to Captain Peter Doran, and Rescue Member of the Year to Patricia McHale. The Estee Lauder Humanitarian Award was presented to Isaac Vargas. Life Saving Awards were presented to members for cardiac arrest saves at two incidents that occurred in 2017. For the first incident at Extended Stay Hotel, Chief Jason Bernfeld, Paramedic Dave Sparaco, Lieutenant Doug Moder, Firefighter Gary Holmgren and District Paramedic Charles Santangelo received awards. For the second incident at a residence, Chiefs Chris Nolan and David Kaplan, EMTs Deborah Archer, Linda McDonough, Scott Sycoff and District EMT-CC Brian McEvoy received the honors. The Medal of Valor Award was presented to Third Assistant Jason Bernfeld for rescuing a man trapped in his burning car that crashed on the Northern State Parkway last March. - Fire News story and photos by Steve Silverman
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Centerport Memorial Day Parade
The Centerport Fire Department hosted their annual Memorial Day Parade and Service which was very well-attended by the community. Besides firefighters and shiny fire apparatus, the parade featured marching bands from the Harborfields Schools and local Scout troops. After the parade, the ex-chiefs led a flag-raising ceremony at the Park Circle Monument opposite the firehouse. This year’s guest speaker was Major Antonio Silvera, (ret.) U.S. Air Force and Northwell Health Veteran Program Specialist. Refreshments were served by the Centerport Cadets and the Ladies Auxiliary held their bake sale. - Fire News photos by Steve Silverman
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Massapequa Installation 2018
On May 5, 2018, the Massapequa Fire Department held its annual installation dinner. During the dinner, department officers, company officers, officers of the Ladies Auxiliary and officers of Explorer Post 630 were sworn. Also sworn in were the Chiefs of the Massapequa Fire Department: 1st Assistant Chief David Batt, 2nd Assistant Chief William Monjardo, 3rd Assistant Chief Joseph Maneri and Chief of Department Kevin Stansberry. Honored at the dinner was outgoing Chief of Department Regis Beneville. - Fire News photos by Ed Tuffy
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Stony Brook’s Burn Recognition Day
Stony Brook Medicine held its Annual Burn Recognition Day on May 20, 2018, to honor the hard work, skill and devotion of firefighters, EMTs, physicians, nurses and healthcare professionals who help patients with serious burns. Honored as Burn Nurse of the Year was Melissa Sabatino; Ancillary Staff of the Year, Nadjwah Golver; Care Provider of the Year (in memory of Guy Cassara, P.A.), James Alessi. The Robert Lyon Annual Burn Center Award (for those who contributed $1,000 or more in 2017 to the burn center) was presented to Friends of Islip Firefighters (Firefighter Expo), New York Fire Alarm Association, Fire Marshal Association of Suffolk County, St. James Fire Department, Steven L Weiner, Lindenhurst Fire Department (Christmas Stocking Raffle), Red Knights Chapter 25 NY (Bike Blessing and Ride), Medford Fire Department, Suffolk County Ambulance Chiefs Association and the Westhampton Beach Fire Department. - Fire News photos provided
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Chiefs of New Hyde Park Fire Department for 2018 (left to right): 3rd Deputy Chief Joseph Papa; 1st Deputy Chief Victor Sowinski, Jr.; Chief Brian Sherwood; 2nd Deputy Chief Patrick Lyons; 4th Deputy Chief Robert Gallagher.
Linda Sherwood pins the chiefs badge on newly installed Chief Brian Sherwood.
New Hyde Park Installation Brian Sherwood installed for the third time as Chief of Department.
The New Hyde Park Fire Department held the 108th annual installation and inspection dinner on April 14, 2018, at The Inn at New Hyde Park. Honorees included outgoing Chief Ann Mullooly, who was the department’s first ever female chief. Brian Sherwood was installed as Chief of Department for the third time. Brian previously served as chief in 2013 and 2008. - Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
Chairman of the board of fire commissioner Stephen Derenze presents outgoing Chief Ann Mullooly her helmet.
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Firehouse Kitchen
Coming for You, Fire Marshals! By Ray Cooney Oh yes! The time has come for the 5th Annual Big Chili/Chowder Cook-off held at the Bayport Fire Department, in Long Island, New York. This year, the event will be held on September 8, 2018. Admission begins at noon. This event will be a country themed event with musical entertainment provided by Southbound as well as line dancing instructions for all those interested. The reason I am writing about this event is because I help the Bayport Fire Department prepare their chili. The first year of the event, we took first place! Since then, our crown has been stolen, year after year, by the Islip Town Fire Marshalls. This has become a rivalry between us and them since it first occurred. I don't want to mention any names, so we will just call the head marshal Fire Marshal Bill, from West Sayville Fire Department. For the past four years, we have been creating you-tube videos talking “smack” to each other about whose chili will be the best. Last year, Bayport’s chili won the people’s choice award, but could not take home the judges award. We made a bacon-zesty chili. Since this was not a winning recipe, we are going to change it up this year. We are going to make a three-bean steak chili and are only going to use rib-eye steak.
Let’s see if the marshals can top that! One good thing about this chili, is we are avoiding making it too spicy. It will have just enough kick to keep you warm in the winter and doesn’t make you go running for bread and water. The rivalry between the two groups is all in good fun and for a great cause. The event raises money for the Islip Town Fire Museum, located directly outside Duck’s Stadium in Central Islip. If you have some free time on September 8, 2018, be sure to stop on down at the Bayport Fire Department where you can enjoy chili, chowder, craft beer, live entertainment and the one and only Firefighter Ray as the MC of the event. Activities and pizza for children will be provided free of charge! Special thanks to Fire News, Georgi Vodka, Spyder Bite Brewery, Blue Point Brewery, Stop and Shop, DiCarlo Foods, Werner Breads, Tony’s Pizza of Bayport, Satellite Pizza of Bayport, and Furci’s Pizza of Bayport, Sayville Pizza, the Bayport Fire Department and of course Firehouse Kitchen for all their support. To find out more about Firehouse Kitchen, visit firehousekitchenshow.com. If you would like your firehouse to compete in this year’s Chili/Chowder fest, or to appear on Firehouse Kitchen, send an e-mail to firehouse kitchentv@gmail.com.
Three-Bean Chili Red, white, and black chili beans (approximately two cans each) 2 pounds of chopped rib-eye steak, 1 can tomato paste, 3 cans of crushed tomatoes, ¼ cup chili powder, 1 cup chopped onion, 3 cloves of chopped garlic, 1 red jalepeno pepper (chopped) salt, pepper, garlic powder Brown rib-eye steak in frying pan. Then combine all ingredients in large sauce pot. Bring to boil for one minute, then lower temperature to simmer and cook for three hours or longer. The longer the better.
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North Patchogue Christens New Quint On May 20, 2018, the North Patchogue Fire Department held a dedication for its new Quint 5-17-2 in honor of US Navy SEAL Lieutenant Michael ‘The Protector’ Murphy. In front of Lt. Murphy’s family, friends, elected officials, and neighboring departments, the new 5-17-2, a Pierce 107-foot Quint, was dedicated in his memory with a memorial to Murphy prominently displayed on the apparatus. Lt. Murphy, a Patchogue native, was killed in action in Afghanistan during Operation Red Wings in 2005. For his heroic actions during the operation, Lt. Murphy received the Silver Star, which was later upgraded to the Medal of Honor. - Fire News photos by LIHotShots.smugmug.com, OverTheEdgePhotography.com, Steve Walsh, Edmund Coppa and A.J. Ryan
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From Explorer to Chief: Elmont’s Joseph Luckman Joseph Luckman, a 16-year veteran of the fire service, is currently serving his first term as Chief of the Elmont Fire Department. Born and raised in Elmont, Luckman attended Clara H. Carlson Elementary and Sewanhaka High School. During high school, he spent four years with the Elmont Fire Department Explorer Post 709. The Explorer program made a good impression on Luckman, who, when not volunteering as a firefighter, works at Nassau County Fire Communications, and is responsible for dispatching fire departments all across Nassau County. “It is very rewarding being a part of the fire service,” said Luckman, who is also involved in the department’s community outreach. In addition to keeping residents safe, the department has a fire prevention unit that goes into local schools and teaches students about fire safety. Conveying this knowledge also ensures the community will remain a safe haven for years to come. Prior to his election as Chief, Luckman served three years as Lieutenant and two as Captain. He is involved with the training committee as well as the recruitment and fund drive committees. “After a fire or medical emergency, it is gratifying knowing that we do something good every time the radio goes off,” said Luckman. His favorite part, however, is the comradery shared between company members. “We keep each other on our toes, but we always have each other’s backs,” he commented. In terms of priorities for the department, Luckman’s focus is on moving forward and showing growth in membership. Overall community safety, fire training and ensuring his department members get home safe after each emergency are among the Chief’s top priorities. - Fire News story by Melissa Weir
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Thank You for Your Service On June 30, 2018, the Farmingville Fire Department, with the help of the Ronkonkoma Fire Department, welcomed home Firefighter Nicholas Salaminia from his nine-month deployment. Thank you, brother, for your service to our country and for fighting for our freedom. We are happy to have you back home with us. - Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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Hicksville Juniors Get Youth Group of Year Award
Congratulations to the Hicksville Fire Department Juniors Youth Group on being Named the 2018 Fire Department Youth Group of the Year. This prestigious award is issued by the Fireman’s Association State of New York (FASNY) and has only been awarded to two other fire department youth groups on Long Island in the history of issuing this award. The group of young men and ladies train tirelessly on firematic and emergency medical skill sets for their future endeavors while also taking part in numerous committees that serve the Hicksville community. This group of young
adults is very committed to helping others, and hosts numerous fundraisers to offset the cost of programs such as toys for children admitted to the hospital during the holidays. The Hicksville Fire Department is celebrating 125 years of dedicated service to the community. The department hosted a four-day carnival in July, wwhich included the Nassau County Firefighters parade. (First row, left to right): Hina Ifikhar, Marichristina Lopez, Ryan Stack, Haydi Cruz, Nicole Olivares and Advisor Ashley Chepell. (Second row, left to right): Advisor William
Blazo, Rohan Mehrotta, Christian Sandoval, Fabiola Amador, Maxine Sanguinetti, Stephenie Cardalena, Jack Kelly and Advisor Mike Scanlon. (Third row, left to right): Johan Cruz, Alvero Pelaez, Brandon Rivera, Kyle Blazo, Michael Scanlon, Dakoda and Nick Guzman. Camera shy were Ashly Stack, Nicole Gonzalez, Sean Moskos, Niyati Sisnodia, Kayla Teleski, Ever Turcios, Joseph Kelly, Nick McDonald, KK Shergill, Jordan Wolf, Dhatt Simrandeep, Julia Barr, Matthew Zwickel. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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East Northport 110th Annual Installation
The East Northport Fire Department recently held their 110th annual installation of officers at the Larkfield. Board of Fire Commissioners Chairman William Bootz administered the oath-of-office to Chief of Department Daniel Heffernan, along with First Assistant Chief Daniel Flanagan, and Second Assistant Chief Thomas Bourne. Line and Squad Officers were installed as follows: Engine Co. 1 Captain John McCoy, Lieutenant Bryan Gosik. Engine Company 2 Captain Steven Macedonio, Lieutenant Brian Hinton. Hook and Ladder Company - Captain Matthew Cambria, Lieutenant Vincent Pastore. Rescue Squad - Engine 1 Second Lieutenant Katelyn O'Brien, Engine 2 Second Lieutenant Rosemarie Sholes, H&L Second Lieutenant Barbara Strievski. Fire Police - Captain Anthony Casillo, Lieutenants. James Wagner and Thomas Noonan. Chief Mechanic John Cetta, Assistant
Mechanic Christopher Radimer. Chaplain Charles Murray, Assistant Chaplain William Bootz. Company Achievement Awards were presented to John Desjardins of Engine Company 1, Allison Galofaro of Engine Company 2, Joseph Senese of Hook and Ladder Company, James Matthews of Rescue Squad, and James Wine of Fire Police. The Paul Mathews Memorial Award was presented to ex-Captain Roger Putnam, with the James Niemczyk Memorial Award bestowed to Honorary Chief John Cetta. Service Awards were presented to ex-Chief Kenneth Hahn for 50 years of service, James Wine and Steven Lauschus for 30 years, and Chief Daniel Heffernan, Robert Esposit, Michael Wine, and Jonathan Mont for 20 years. - Fire News photos by Steve Silverman
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Mineola’s O’Connell, Redmond, Franz Honored for 50 Years Service
The officers and members of Mineola Ladder Company No. 2 held a dinner on the night of Saturday, May 19, 2018, to honor three of their members for 50 years of service. The members honored were ex-Captain William O’Connell, ex-Captain Daniel Redmond, and Honorary Captain Donald Franz. Present at the event were repre-
sentatives from the other companies of the Mineola Fire Department, the chiefs of the Mineola Fire Department, various dignitaries, and several family members and friends of each of the honorees. - Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com
PROLINER ANNOUNCES DEBUT OF NEWLY IMPROVED WEBSITE Proliner Rescue is proud to announce the debut of our newly improved website! The site is still at prolinerrescue.com, but is now much faster, and is capable of displaying high resolution photos that our old site could not. New vehicles will be posted upon delivery, so make sure to check in regularly!
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German Firefighters Visit Nassau Juniors Nassau County was honored by three visiting firefighters from Germany. Three years ago, at a Fire Expo in Hanover, Germany, NVFC Chairman Kevin Quinn from Boston met three young firefighters, Marcel Kamphenke, Tobias Weniger and Steven Thouet. The three had come through the Haverlah (a region in southeastern Germany) Junior Program. They spoke with Quinn about coming to the US and visiting different states to learn about our fire service and junior programs. They showed a major interest in establishing an exchange program with us with mostly attending our Junior Camp Fahrenheit 516. Ever since they left, the NCJFA Board have been working on how to finalize the plans to set up the exchange program with Haverlah. (Pictured): Steven Thouet (Haverlah Firefighter); Marcel Kamphenkel (Haverlah Firefighter); Jerry Presta, NCJFA Chairman; Tobias Weniger (Haverlah Firefighter); and Kevin Quinn, NVFC Chairman at FDNY Engine 54 Ladder 4.s - Fire News photo provided
Brookhaven’s DiPinto, Nassau’s Lerner Awarded for Heroism On June 29, 2018, the Southern New York Volunteer Fireman’s Association held its 123rd Annual Installation and Awards. All officers and directors of the association were installed including incoming President Anthony Sullo. In addition, two awards were presented for Firefighter of the Year and EMS Provider of the Year. Firefighter of the Year went to Brookhaven Fire Department Firefighter Peter DiPinto, Sr., for his heroic actions in rescuing a woman
from her car on the railroad tracks after being involved in an MVA. Firefighter DiPinto was able to get the victim out of her car and into safety just seconds before the train came through and struck the vehicle. EMS Provider of the Year was awarded to Fire Marshal Richard Lerner of the Nassau County Fire Marshals. On September 8, 2017, while off-duty, Fire Marshal Lerner stopped at the scene of a pedestrian struck and began CPR with the assistance of two Nassau County
police Department officers prior to the arrival of an ambulance. The patient was later revived at the hospital and is still alive today due to Fire Marshal Lerner’s quick actions where other bystanders left the 14-year-old girl for dead. Congratulations to Firefighter DiPinto Sr., and Fire Marshal Lerner on their awards recognizing their life-saving achievements. - Fire News photos by OverTheEdgePhotography.com
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Up Close & Personal (Left): Peter Waskewicz of the Riverhead Fire Department. - Fire News photo by LIHotShots. smugmug.com
(Right): Syosset Firefighter Logan Fisher and Port Washington Firefighter George Jaronczyk III after a working fire in Syosset. -Fire News photo by OverTheEdge Photography.com
(Left): Nesconset Ladder 2 Lieutenant Joseph Capogna operating at a fire on Middle Country Road on June 12, 2018. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
(Right): Thank you to West Babylon Junior Firefighter Aubrey Alvino, who did a magnificent job singing the National Anthem at the Lindenhurst Motorized Drill in June. - Fire News photo by Kim Versheck
We Never Forget Our Own Recently, members of the Terryville Fire Department made a surprise visit to the Comsewogue High School Senior Prom. The department came out and stopped by the prom in their Class A uniforms to let Cara Pouletsos know that her dad was with her in spirit at her senior prom. The TFD wanted Cara to enjoy her special night, knowing that dad was watching over her from the floor above. - Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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MOTLEY CREWS OF THE MONTH
Ex-Chiefs from the Holtsville and Farmingville Fire Departments. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Members of Ladder 594 of Roslyn Highlands and Ladder 62 of Long Beach, at the Firefighter Christopher Raguso funeral. - Fire News photo by Andrew Mulchinski, RHFD
The Westbury Fire Department at a recent house fire. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
Central Islip Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary. - Fire News photo by Charles A. Murphy, CIFD Photo Unit
Locust Valley firefighters after operating in Syosset. - Fire News photo by OverTheEdgePhotography.com
Commack Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Jim Dunn
Miller Place Fire Department Rescue Engine 7 after a mutual aid to the Coram for a house fire on Samantha Drive. - Fire News photo by Kyle Negrin
Members of East Meadow Engine 1 on the scene of a Uniondale house fire on July 1, 2018. - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com
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Melville Firefighters Honored for 50 Years of Service The Melville Fire Department recently recognized two veteran firefighters for their 50 years of dedicated service to the department and community. ExCaptain and Commissioner Wayne Eckstein and exCaptain Francis ‘Chip’ Ferrari were each presented with 50 Years of Service Awards by the Firemen’s Association of the State of New York (FASNY). The department also served a congratulatory cake to the members at a meeting honoring the two. (From left): Second Assistant Chief Bill Schmitt, Third Assistant Chief Jason Bernfeld, ex-Captain Wayne Eckstein, FASNY Trustee Pete Cincotta, ex-Captain Chip Ferrari and Chief Chris Nolan. - Fire News photos by Steve Silverman
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Obituary
New Hyde Park’s Karl Bumeisters Ex-Chief Karl Bumeisters answered his last alarm on June 21, 2018. His life was celebrated during mass at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in New Hyde Park on June 27, 2018. He was surrounded by fellow members of the New Hyde Park Fire Department, family and friends. Karl began his service to the New Hyde Park Fire Department in 1975. During his 40-plus years of service he was a member of the Chiefs Association and a member of the NHP Exempts Association. He moved up to the ranks to Captain of the NHP Rescue Company followed by Chief of the Department. During the early 1980s Karl, along with another member of the New Hyde Park Rescue Company, was instrumental in drafting the intubation protocols Nassau County uses to date. Those who knew ex-Chief Bumeisters knew him to be the first person to step up to the plate to lend a helping hand. He was a mentor to the younger members of the department. While he was in the position of command, he still let his lighter side show with what his friends affectionately termed as “Karlisms.” Being the epitome of a teddy bear, Karl was considered a child’s best friend. Karl was a retired Assistant Director of Security for North Shore University Hospital. He is survived by his sister Rita and brother-in-law Dennis. His interment was at Latvian Memorial Park in Tannersville, New York. - Fire News story by the New Hyde Park FD; photos by Kevin Imm
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Obituary
FDNY’s, Deer Park’s John T. Vigiano
On Saturday, July 14, 2018, the FDNY, family and friends of Deer Park said their final farewell to FDNY ex-Captain John Vigiano. John was a former member of the Deer Park Fire Department. He was also the father of John II, a firefighter with FDNY Engine 132, and Joseph, who was an ESU Detective in Truck 2. Both sons were killed on September 11, 2001. Captain Vigiano gave 36 years to the FDNY. He served in Ladder 103, as a Lieutenant in Rescue 2, and a Captain in Ladder Company 176. After retirement, Captain Vigiano dedicated himself to our wounded military personnel. John visited soldiers at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Bethesda on numerous occasions and raised funds for Hope for Wounded Warriors and the Gary Sinise Foundation. Always keeping a positive attitude, John always said that “Life is what you make of it.” Captain Vigiano would have turned 80years old on November 23. - Fire News photos by BTFirePhoto.com, headshot by Dennis Whittam
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