VOLUME XLV, NO. 1
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Since 1973 SEPTEMBER 2017
- Story page 6 - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Never Forget 9/11/2001 See page 4
Page 2, Fire News, September 2017
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Fire News, September 2017, Page 3
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In this issue... A Service for Long Island Firefighters and EMS Heroes
Gordon Heights House Fire A suspicious fire breaks out in a vacant Mill Avenue house. See story page 10
All Out in Westbury Blaze Fireifghters respond to a house fire with possible people trapped. See story page 14
Good Stop in Northport Firefighters make quick work of a fire in the Harbour Point condos. See story page 26
Tech Rescue in Plainview Crews respond to a man who fell into a 30-foot-deep excavated basement. See story page 47
Racing Around the Island NYS Junior Championship, Nassau Co. Drill, 5th Battalion Old Fashion Drill, Riverhead and more
See stories pages 54-59
Obituaries Wading River’s Wiwczar Holbrook’s Kortlang Melville’s Harrison NYSA Fire Chief’s Lewis Centereach’s McGrath SC Fire Academy’s Kost
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, 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, JoeLapietra, Richard Lewin, Bryan Lopez, Harry Loud, Kurt Ludwig, Brad Maier, John Mancino, Paul Mazza, Terry McCarrick, Lou Minutoli, Ron Monteleone, Jim Mooney, Ilene Morris, Michael Murphy, Charles A. Murphy, Mike Oppedisano, John Neely, Phil Orlando, Robert O'Rourk, Francis "Sid" Parkan, Kevin Parkan, Tom Pesce, Kevin Peterson, Jackson Pokress, Jerry Presta, Myles Quinn, Jerry Rudolph, Dave Rubin, Jim Rugen, AJ Ryan, Steve Schaefer, Drew Silverman, Steve Silverman, Joe Sperber, Rich Stark, JoAnn Stephani, Brian Thomas, Ed Tuffy, Joe Virgilio, Dennis Whittam, Cameron Wilken, Michael Wiwczar, John Wladyka, Jr. COLUMNISTS: Jeff Bailes, Paul Hashagen, Bruce Johnson, John Salka, Billy Goldfeder, Danny Peluso, Bradley Pinksy, Tom Rinelli COPYRIGHT 2017, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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See pages 73-78
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 EMS Coverage . . . . . . . . . . . . .starts on page 42 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 66 Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 70 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 73 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 76
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.
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
9/11: Never Forget Every year, I sit back and think of the staggering statistics that have changed the lives of so many responders and innocent civilians who had the misfortune of being murdered in the attacks on the United States of America on September 11, 2001. For those of you who lived, worked, responded, were curious and visited the site, the smell cannot be forgotten. The smoky mix of burnt plastic and smoldering materials can instantly bring back memories for many of the aftermath of the collapse of the two towers of the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. Some facts: 91,000 liters of jet fuel and 1,200,000 tons of building materials burned at 1000 degrees for a very long time. There were 23,000 fluorescent light bulbs in the World Trade Center. The bulbs contained small amounts of known carcinogens which vaporized for everyone to breathe. Then there were 75,000 telephones reportedly in the buildings, attached by 19,000 miles of cable — think PCBs. The coatings on the cables and 300 main frame computers that were pulverized and burned gave off toxic gases that many inhaled for many weeks. [Visit the “Let’s Roll Forum” for some incredible facts about the WTC.]
This year, I lost a few close friends, who succumbed to 9/11 related cancers. I can only say they set the example of being true American heroes by continuing to make everyone aware that the diseases related to the attack on this country continue to have a horrible impact on us. I thank Firefighter Jimmy Lanza of Ladder 43 and Firefighter Ray Pfeifer for all they did to make sure our government does not walk away from a situation that is predicted to continue to get worse. Doctors have now linked many respiratory illnesses and 68 cancers to the WTC toxic dust. Last September, the FDNY added 17 names to a list of those who have died of 9/11related illness, bringing the total to 127. I am sure this list will grow in 2017. In the true tradition of the FDNY, the NYPD and the PAPD, they have not forgotten their own, who continue to succumb to 9/11 related illnesses. We must never forget all of our first responders, emergency responders, recovery and cleanup workers, and volunteers who helped in the aftermath of the attacks on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and the crash site near Shanksville, Pennsylvania. Never forget the survivors who lived, worked or went to school near the World Trade Center on September 11 or in the subsequent months.
Records show that the total number of all 9/11 responders, including firefighters, who have been diagnosed with WTC-linked cancers now exceeds 5,100. I read that Dr. Raja Flores, Chief of Thoracic Surgery at Mount Sinai Medical Center, one of seven sites affiliated with the WTC Health Program, insists that researchers are just scratching the surface with these findings. Dr Flores reminds us that there’s no doubt that we will see a sharp increase in 9/11-related cancers over the next 30 years. Sadly, the real mass of 9/11-related cancer deaths is probably yet to come. Remember, never forget. Stay vigilant and continue to monitor the aftermath of 9/11. Dennis
Announcements Coordinator Brian Forte (Brian works in the mornings only). You can also AXEMEN 5TH ANNUAL RIDE AND ROAST The Axmen Motorcycle Club will hold its Fifth Annual Ride and Roast e-mail Brian at bforte@nysfirechiefs.com. While NYSAFC is moving to on September 16, 2017, leaving from the Hempstead West Marina park- more electronic communications, those who wish to receive their dues and other invoices by mail will still be able to do so. ing lot off Lido Boulevard. Registration starts at 0930 and the rider ends at the Rocky Point Ale House, 42 Broadway in Rocky Point. The After party starts at 1330 and N. MASSAPEQUA TO HOLD BLOOD DRIVE all are invited. The ride will raise money for the special needs children of AND BONE MARROW REGISTRY the FDNY The North Massapequa Fire Department will be hosting the organizaFor more information go to www.axemenmc3ny.com. tion's Semi-Annual Blood Drive on Monday, September 25, 2017, at the North Massapequa Fire Department's Headquarters (1000 Broadway in WELCOME TO NYSAFC’S NEW North Massapequa) from 1500 to 2100. MEMBERSHIP PORTAL To qualify as a blood donor, a person must be between the ages of 17 The New York State Association of Fire Chiefs is excited to launch a and 75 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and not have donated blood new database and membership management system. For more than a within the last 56 days. year, NYSAFC has been working to implement new technology that The fire department will provide food and refreshments for everyone will benefit members and enhance their communication with associa- who attends the blood drive. For more information contact 516-579-0900. tion staff, officers, and representatives. In November 2016, the associa- Residents can also go online at www.NMFD-660.com. tion launched a new and improved website and on August 1, 2017, we took step two in this process. CENTERPORT COUNTRY CONCERT We are now able to e-mail our members directly to provide important information and updates regarding NYSAFC activities, including trainAND BARBECUE COOK-OFF ing, legislative updates, and many more. Log in to the member portal via The Centerport Fire Department will be hosting their Second Annual www.nysfirechiefs. com so you can access your membership record and Country Concert and Barbecue Cook-off on Saturday, September 23, easily update your information. If you are not currently a member or your 2017, from 1300 to 1900 at Centerport Beach at the end of Little Neck membership has lapsed, you may join the association by simply going to Road. The event features live country music by Nashville recording the website and clicking on the “Join” button at the top of the site. artists Joe Bayer Band. Teams may enter the Cook-Off competition to test Among the many other changes that our members will notice is the their BBQ skills in grilling of chicken, beef and pork ribs. There is a $50 ability to:Register and pay for some training and events online (not the entry fee per team. There will be a wide range of food available including 112th Annual Conference and FIRE 2018 Expo); receive electronic hamburgers, hot dogs, pulled pork sandwiches, smoked sausage, French invoices and pay your annual dues electronically (we will continue to mail fries, roasted corn on the cob, ice cream and beverages. invoices to those members who chose not pay electronically); receive legThe event will be held rain or shine with a $10 general admission, and islative and government affairs updates; view members-only information; children 12 and under free. For more information to enter a team and much more. As always, you can call our office at 518-477-2631 or or become a vendor, contact CFDcookoff@gmail.com or visit 800-676-FIRE and ask for assistance. Please ask for Membership Centerportfd.org to download contestant and vendor forms.
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Announcements SC FIREFIGHTERS BURN CENTER FUND, FUNDRAISER
The Suffolk County Volunteer Firefighters Burn Center Fund aill host at Night at the Museum Wine and Cheese fundrasier on September 21, 2017, at the Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road in Centerport. The event starts at 1900 annd the cost is $100 per person. Please RSVP Dawn Meyer 631-848-2100.
FIRE POLICE TRAINING SEMINAR
were victims of a drowning and found to be in cardiac arrest. The responders to this incident could not have done a better job and acted with such high dignity it is hard to find the right words to praise them. In addition to these calls we also attended the Huntington Manor Parade and Fireman’s Fair, and provided two separate five-hour fire standbys to Huntington Manor. We hosted the Food Network, which filmed a pilot episode on site at headquarters and a Department picnic off site, and I would be remiss if I didn’t specifically acknowledge the kitchen committee for this. Sadly we also lost an iconic member of this Department, a 58-year active member, an ex-Chief, a former commissioner, a progressive thinker that helped introduce us to the Hurst tools that we carry without thought today. Members showed true solidarity in the loss of ex-Chief Fred Harrison, who will be truly missed (see page 75. — Ed.). On behalf of the Chiefs office, I thank every member for what they did over these past five days to pull us through. Aside from September 11th, I personally cannot think of another short period of time that has been so demanding and trying on our department. — Chief Jason Bernfeld, First Assistant Chief Chris Nolan, Second Assistant Chief David Kaplan, Third Assistant Chief Bill Schmitt
A Fire Police Training Seminar will be held at the Mt Sinai Fire Department- Main House on October 7, 2017. Sign-in starts at 8:45 a.m. and the events will run from 1000 to 1400. Phone: 631-473-2418; Fax: 631-473-4661; e-mail: MSFD@Optonline.net This museum fundraiser costs $45 per person, limited to 200 people, and includes a light meal and refreshments. Instructors from the Brookhaven Town Fire Police Association will have PowerPoint presentations, demonstrations, vehicle set-up and viewing. Potential topics: crowd control, setting up TTCZ, training techniques for officers, using birds-eye mapping for pre-plans in your district, fire police equipment, vehicle set-up and viewing. Mail checks payable to the M.S.F.D - Fire Police Company 4, Fire Police CHINESE AUCTION IN MIDDLE ISLAND Training C/O A. Dangelo, PO Box 442, Mount Sinai, NY 11766. Please The Middle Island Fire Department is having a Chinese Auction on have your district manager Contact the MSFD and forward proof of insur- September 9, 2017 at their headquarters on Arnold Drive in Middle Island. ance to the Mt Sinai Fire District. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. The auctions starts at 7:45 p.m. For more information please contact debtunjian@gmail.com.
A LETTER FROM MELVILLE’S CHIEF
A letter from Chief of Department Jason Bernfeld and Assistant Chiefs Chris Nolan, David Kaplan and Bill Schmitt to the entire membership of the Melville Volunteer Fire Department. I am writing this to the Department as a whole unit, a team that came together and proved the professionalism of this great organization and the willingness of each and every individual member to pull together and contribute whatever they could, and it showed! So, thank you. From July 21 to July 26, 2017, the Melville Fire Department responded to 50 alarms, of which were two confirmed propane leaks, a mutual aid request for a structure fire, a mutual aid request for a junkyard fire, a car accident with entrapment and today tragically a terrible call for two three-year-old children that
SUFFOLK LADIES TO HOST LAFASNY MEETING
The Suffolk County Ladies Auxiliary will be hosting the Ladies Auxiliary of the Firemen’s Association of the State of New York (LAFASNY) September sectional meeting on Saturday, September 23, 2017, at the West Sayville Fire House at 80 West Main Street in West Sayville. Lunch will be at noon and the cost is $7 per person. The meeting will start promptly at 1300. You do not have to be a member of LAFASNY to attend, so if you are not a member, this is your chance to come to a local meeting and see what LAFASNY is all about.
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Cover Story
Lakeview Responds to 2-Alarmer A two-alarm fire destroyed a West Hempstead house (Lakeview Fire District) on July 30, 2017. The occupants of the Park Avenue home were able to escape to safety before flames engulfed the second floor and attic of the 2-1/2 story private dwelling. Lakeview crews arrived to find heavy fire and smoke conditions throughout the house. Mutual aid came from several surrounding communities. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Holbrook House Fire
Early on July 22, 2017, the Holbrook Fire Department was activated for a reported residential structure fire on Colony Drive. Suffolk County police units were first to arrive and updated FRES of an active fire. Holbrook Chief Chris Heinssen arrived and advised dispatch of heavy smoke and visible fire showing from the structure. Mutual aid was requested from Bayport, Blue Point, Holtsville, Sayville and Bohemia. The fire was quickly knocked down without further incident. Command requested a fire marshal and arson squad to the scene for an investigation. - Fire News photos by Bryan Lopez and Dennis Berger
Call 631-286-0058 ext. 112
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Freeport Car Fire On July 7, 2017, the Freeport Fire Department was dispatched to a report of a car fire on Smith Street between Guy Lombardo Avenue and Church Street. When firefighters arrived they stretched a line off unit 211. Hose 2 was also on scene and operated. All fire department units were under the command of Freeport First Assistant Chief Ruiz - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com
Oil Burner Smoker On July 19, 2017, the Plainview Fire Department and a dual response engine from Syosset responded to two calls for a basement fire at a Glenwood Road address. Crews found a heavy smoke condition from an oil burner and high CO readings throughout the two-story home. Crews mechanically vented the home with fans. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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Gordon Heights House Fire A suspicious fire broke out in a vacant house on Mill Road, between Teller Avenue and W. Yaphank Road, late on July 3, 2017. Gordon Heights Fire Chief Chesley Ruffin was passing by and noticed smoke and flames emanating from the vacant structure. The Coram Fire Department responded and mutual aid came from Middle Island, Gordon Heights and Medford. Suffolk County Police Arson Squad was also called to the scene. - Fire News photos by Thomas J. Lambui and Jim Dunn
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Copiague Vacant House Fire The Copiague Fire Department was alerted for a house fire on Dante Avenue early on July 6, 2017. Chief of Department Fitch along with Second and Third Assistant Chiefs Nuzzi and Miller arrived to find heavy smoke coming from a two-story vacant home. Engine 1-3-7 was followed by Ladder 1-3-4 and Engine 1-3-9. The crew from 1-3-4 removed boards from the windows and gained entry through the front door to advance a handline. As the crews removed boards from a rear sliding door, heavy fire vented out and extended to a garage on the property and another on the exposure two side yard. A second line was brought to the rear and put into operation. It took about an hour to bring the fire under control. Mutual aid came from North Lindenhurst, Lindenhurst and Amityville. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
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All Out in Westbury Blaze On June 19, 2017, the Westbury Fire Department responded to multiple calls for a house fire with possible people trapped. Arriving units found heavy smoke and fire coming from the two-story home. One occupant was able to escape the home and all others were accounted for. - Fire News photos by Kevin Imm and Joseph C. Sperber
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Amityville Car Fire
Hempstead House Fire
On July 9, 2017, the Amityville Fire Department responded to a reported car fire at home on Washington Avenue. Chief of Department Erath and Engine 1-1-4 responded and arrived to find a car involved in the rear yard of the home. Fire was spreading to a fence and two car ports in a neighboring yard. The crew extinguished the fire in about 15 minutes. An engine from the North Amityville was also requested to the scene and that crew checked for any further extension in the neighboring yard. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Minutes into July 4, 2017, the Hempstead Fire Department was dispatched to a Willow Avenue address for a report of smoke coming from the roof of a two-story private dwelling. Moments later firefighters found fire on the number 3 side of the home. Two lines were put into operation — one through the front door and the other to a setback in the rear. The scene was placed under control within 40 minutes. All units were under the command of Hempstead Chief of Department Fred Sandas. - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com
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Central Islip Basement Fire
Chief Bob McGee of the Central Islip Fire Department command- responded to conduct an investigation, as well as mutual aid from ed operations on Fig Street on June 6, 2017. The alarm involved a the Brentwood and Islip Terrace. The Central Islip-Hauppauge fire in a basement utility room with extension to a rear deck of the Volunteer Ambulance Company was also on scene. - Fire News photo by Charles A. Murphy, CIFD Photo Unit residence. Chief McGee requested the Suffolk County Arson Squad
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Copiague Vacant House Fire In the early morning of June 14, 2017, the Copiague Fire Department was called to a house fire on Ferraris Street. Second Assistant Chief Nuzzi arrived to fire showing from the 2-3 corner of a singlestory, two-family vacant house. Chief of Department Fitch arrived and took command. Engine 1-3-9 stretched a line to the rear of the house while the crew from Ladder 13-4 worked on cutting open the doors and boarded up windows. Once entry was made the fire was quickly knocked down and contained to the rear of the house. Mutual aid came from Amityville, North Lindenhurst, North Amityville and Lindenhurst. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
1 Injured at Wantagh Fire
On June 12, 2017, the Wantagh Fire Department was alerted for a crews checked for extension. The homeowner was injured and evalhouse fire at the intersection of Dell and Dahlia Lanes. Arriving uated by Wantagh EMS. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm units found an exterior fire. The fire was quickly extinguished and
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East Farmingdale House Fire
On July 21, 2017, the East Farmingdale Fire Department responded to a house fire on Hallock Street. Mutual aid was called to assist in extinguishing the fire. - Fire News photos by Kevin Imm
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Islip House Fire
Islip firefighters responded to a house fire on Nikkia Drive. Chief 3-4-31 was met with heavy fire on arrival. Mutual aid came from East Islip, Islip Terrace and Bay Shore. - Fire News photo by Ryan Wiedmann
Bay Shore House Fire The Bay Shore Fire Department was alerted for a house fire on Perkal Street early on June 18, 2017. First Assistant Chief Rockfeld encountered a fully involved single-story house and a vehicle parked in front of the house on fire. Chief of Department Kunz arrived and requested mutual aid from Islip for RIT and West Islip to stand by. Engine 3-1-2 put multiple lines into operation while the crew from Ladder 3-1-4 searched and vented. It took about an hour to bring the fire under control with no reported injuries. During overhaul firefighters found several kittens that survived the fire and also several that didn’t. The cause of the fire was under investigation. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
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Hempstead Shed Fire
Hempstead firefighters battled a shed fire on July 18, 2017, in the rear of a private dwelling on Meadowbrook Road. The shed was fully involved on arrival and the radiant heat was strong enough to melt most of the siding on the rear of the home. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Manhassett-Lakeview Responds to Basement Fire
On July 22, 2017, Manhasset-Lakeview Fire Department companies 3, 4 and 5 were dispatched to Nassau Road for a reported house fire. Deputy Chief Gobbo and Engine 8740 arrived within minutes and found smoke venting from the attic of the home. The crew of 8740, led by Captain Dolan, forced entry into the unoccupied home and located a contents fire in the basement. A hoseline was stretched to extinguish the fire, which was contained to one room in the basement. - Fire News photo by Lee Genser
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Jerusalem Ave. Blaze The Wantagh Fire Department responded to a raging fire on June 29, 2017, on Jerusalem Avenue. Firefighters arrived to find the house heavily engulfed in fire. Several nearby departments also responded to assist. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Quick Work in Brentwood
On the night of May 7, 2017, the Brentwood Fire Department down the fast-moving fire. Mutual aid was provided by Central responded to a house fire on Front Avenue. Firefighters were met Islip, Islip and Bay Shore. Chief of Department Mike Derbyshire - Fire News photos by John Ippolito, Jr. with heavy fire showing from the rear of the home. Due to a quick was in charge. response, members were on scene within minutes and knocked
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That Could Have Been Expensive The Nesconset Fire Department responded to a fire at the BMW dealer on Middle Country Road in Saint James on May 4, 2017. Nesconset assisted at scene with Saint James to contain the fire to the A/C unit on the roof. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
Garage Fire in Middle Island On May 28, 2017, Middle Island firefighters responded to a garage fire on Whiskey Road. Upon arrival, firefighters discovered a fully involved detached garage with a car inside the structure also fully involved. Mutual aid was provided by the Miller Place and Coram. Firefighters’ efforts were hampered after the car’s fuel tank ruptured, causing gasoline to spew throughout the garage and stream down the driveway. An elderly woman who lived at the residence was treated for smoke inhalation. The blaze was under control in under 45 minutes. - Fire News photo by Thomas J. Lambui
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Yaphank Car Fire
Shirley Truck Fire
On July 5, 2017, the Yaphank Fire Department responded to a car fire on the eastbound exit 66 ramp to the Long Island Expressway, just east of Sills Road. - Fire News photo by Thomas J. Lambui
On June 22, 2017, the Brookhaven Fire Department responded to a fire in the southbound lanes of William Floyd Parkway for a fire in a flatbed trailer carrying heavy road paving equipment. The fire was believed to have been caused by over-heated brakes. - Fire News photo by Thomas J. Lambui
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Good Stop at Northport Condos The Northport Fire Department responded to a blaze in the Pool House at the Harbour Point at Northport Condos on July 29, 2017. The structure was fully involved upon arrival but the fire was stopped from spreading to the attached clubhouse. Mutual aid came from East Northport, and Centerport. The fire was controlled in 20 minutes and under the command of Chief Brad Wine, supported by Assistant Chiefs John Jacobsen and Dennis Sheridan. - Fire News photos by Steve Silverman and Joseph C. Sperber
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Islip Terrace Fire Islip Terrace firefighters responded to Nassau Avenue, for a fire on the first floor, which extended into the walls. - Fire News photo by Ryan Wiedmann
Lakeland House Fire On July 18, 2017, the Lakeland Fire Department was activated for a reported residential structure fire on Furieson Avenue. Upon arrival, Chief 3-1330 was met with smoke showing and visible fire from the roof of the home. Command requested mutual aid from Ronkonkoma, Central Islip, Nesconset and Bohemia. The fire was quickly knocked down by first-due units without further incident. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
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East Farmingdale Junkyard Blaze
On July 21, 2017 while units were still on scene of a house fire on Hallock Street, a large column of smoke began to be visible in East Farmingdale. The North Lindenhurst Fire Department was initially called to respond to a car fire on Field Street. North Lindenhurst Chief of Department Newman was told by Babylon Central Fire Alarm that numerous calls were being taken reporting a vehicle fire. While still responding, additional information was given that it was multiple vehicles on fire in a junkyard. With smoke visible for miles, Chief Newman started requesting mutual aid, and arrived to find numerous vehicles stacked on racks burning and threatening a business on the exposure three side of the fire. East Farmingdale Assistant Chiefs Iuzzini, Welliver and Lewis arrived and assisted in coordinating the fire attack. At the height of the fire there were four master streams and several handlines in operation. The fire took hours to extinguish. Mutual aid was provided by Lindenhurst, North Lindenhurst, Wyandanch, North Amityville, Melville, North Babylon, West Babylon, Farmingdale and Wyandanch-Wheatley Heights Ambulance Corps for their rehab vehicle. A foam trailer from Orangeburg (NY), which is part of a state task force, was also called to the scene. East Farmingdale Chief of Department Joseph arrived during the operation and took command of the scene. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
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Baldwin House Fire
Baldwin firefighters responded to a working house fire on July 16, 2017. The blaze was located on the second floor of a private dwelling on Talmadge Drive. Mutual aid companies assisted at the scene. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Bethpage House Fire On July 25, 2017, the Bethpage Fire Department responded to a house fire on Iram Place. Smoke was showing upon arrival. Engine 4 dropped a line in front of the house and secured a water supply. Ladder 4 extended to the 2 side and Ladder 3 extended to the 4 side of the twostory home. The fire in a secondstory bedroom was knocked down and no injuries were reported. Levittown and Farmingdale also responded. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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Dryer Fire in Sagaponack On July 31, 2017, members of the Bridgehampton Fire Department were dispatched to Merchants Path in Sagaponack for a report of a basement gas detector alarm. Arriving units encountered a dryer fire in the basement, and immediately called for mutual aid from the East Hampton, Sag Harbor, Southampton, Amagansett and Springs, as there was no viable source of water in the area. The main body of fire was knocked down in short order without incident or injuries. - Fire News photos by Michael Heller
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Dix Hills Deck Fire
The Dix Hills Fire Department responded to backyard deck fire caused by a gas barbecue at a home on Scenic View Court on August 3, 2017. Assistant Chiefs Alan Berkowitz and Joe Williamson used their extinguishers to knock down the fire. Apparatus soon arrived and crews had the blaze under control within 15 minutes. Due to the quick action of firefighters, the damage was contained to the barbecue and deck with no extension to the home. - Fire News photos by Steve Silverman
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Melville Pickup Blaze
The Melville Fire Department responded to a fully involved pickup truck fire in the parking lot of Estee Lauder on Corporate Center Drive on July 6, 2017. Units were under the direction of Chief Jason Bernfeld and Third Assistant Chief Bill Schmitt. Firefighters quickly extinguished the blaze and there were no injuries reported. - Fire News story by Steve Silverman, photo courtesy Melville FD
Quick Work in Uniondale
On July 1, 2017, the Uniondale Fire Department was dispatched to a basement fire on Midwood Place off Hawthorne Avenue. Firefighters were met with smoke showing from a two-story private dwelling. Uniondale Engine 753 and Ladder 7544 were the first to arrive on scene. At least one line was put into operation resulting in a quick knockdown. North Bellmore responded as the FAST. All units were under the command of Uniondale Chief of Department Smith - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com
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The American Fire Service Over the years and existing today, we lose many of our brothers and sisters, not only as a Line of Duty Death (LODD), but to injury, and to cancer and for many other reasons. It is not calculated how many we lose several days or weeks or even months and years after an incident. As a Safety Officer (SO) what can we do to mitigate this? Well first is it our responsibility? Chief Alan Brunacini says, “For 200 years we have been providing a service at the expense of those providing the service.” How many departments and organizations exist today that do not have a safety officer program or a safety officer on scene at all incidents, or formal training for safety officers? A response vehicle, radios and the tools a safety officer needs? How about the requirements to be a safety officer? Many local departments say the safety officer must be an interior firefighter, ex-Chief, 15-years experience, and nationally certified, leaving only one or two who meet that requirement. Some have interior and exterior safety officers. Are the requirements asking too much? At an incident scene, we need another set of eyes and ears, common sense and knowledge and as many of those people we can get. Are the important people helping us? Where is a newsletter or ongoing information about safety and safety officers from the national organization? For many years I have read articles in many trade magazines and there is very little about safety and safety officers. The same with attending seminars. Seminars abound about truck operation, engine operations, rescue operations, tools, etc. None about safety, none about saving our own lives, or the lives of our brothers and sisters. I always receive calls, with safety officers and non-safety officers asking me what are the rules and requirement for having safety officers on scene. Time and time again I hear that on-scene officers — not necessarily the Chief, but others who are the incident commanders — refuse to accept the safety officer on scene. Where are the protocols and SOPs that require a safety officer on scene? How about training academies? Do they use safety officers, do they require a department to have an SO on-scene during all training? What about the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)? Are they encouraging the membership to become safety officers and letting the chiefs know there is a requirement to have a safety officer on scene? Enough of my ranting, here is my safety officer tip. Stand up at meetings, discuss safety and SO programs, and attend SO meetings and seminars. Get as much training as you can. Ask for that response vehicle, tools and radios, vests and other high-visibility identification. Have dedicated SOs on duty and respond to all incidents. Hold Health and Safety committee meetings. Have your department require extensive physicals and stress testing for interior firefighters. Have protocols for rehabilitation on-scene at all incidents. One department actually posts in their meeting room an 8.5- x 11-inch information sheet on every LODD as they happen that year. Others announce the LODDs for the past 30 days at each meeting. When Ben Franklin invented the American fire service it was a great idea, now we need another great idea, getting more SO programs, SOs and more literature and more articles on the topic! Please attend and support our only fundraiser in five years on September 23, 2017, hosted by the Coram Fire Department. For more information contact me or go to www.btsoa.org to register. Question: How Many LODD so far this year? Answer: www.usfa.fema.gov Ex-Chief Jeff Bailes; President Brookhaven Town Safety Officers Association, Inc. www.btsoa.org; 631-495-1313; www.BlinkNetwork.com
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Fire News, September 2017, Page 37
East Farmingdale House Fire
On July 21, 2017, the East Farmingdale Fire Company was alerted for a working house fire on Hallock Street. Third Assistant Chief Lewis responded and requested mutual aid. Farmingdale was requested as the FAST but arrived first due and immediately went to work. Farmingdale First Assistant Chief R. Tortoso arrived to heavy fire on the exposure 3 side that had extended into the second floor and to the exterior of a detached garage. Engine 1-5-1 put multiple lines in operation as the truck crews laddered, vented and searched the house. All searches were negative and the fire was brought under control within an hour. First Assistant Chief Iuzzini took command of the scene when he arrived. Additional mutual aid was provided by South Farmingdale, Melville and North Lindenhurst. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
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Westbury Power Plant Fire On July 21, 2017, the Westbury Fire Department was alerted for a brush fire behind the public safety building on Prospect Avenue. Arriving units saw smoke and fire on the other side of the LIRR tracks and found a filter on fire in a power plant on Duffy Avenue. The plant operator shut down the power and crews extinguished the fire. - Fire News photos by Kevin Imm
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Fire News, September 2017, Page 39
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EMS ACROSS THE ISLAND
Chopper Down Off Gilgo On the morning of July 19, 2017, the Babylon Fire Department was alerted for a report of a helicopter down in the water at Gilgo Beach on the ocean side. The Wantagh Fire Department was also alerted as the call was on the border of the counties. While units were responding, a Suffolk County Police Marine Bureau unit arrived and advised that the helicopter was upright in the water and that the two people on board had already been removed by lifeguards from Gilgo Beach, who had kayaked to the scene. Numerous other agencies responded, including Nassau County Police Ambulance, ESU, Marine and Aviation Bureaus; Suffolk County Police Marine and Aviation; NYPD Air Sea Rescue; and the US Coast Guard. The pilot and passenger — who turned out to be Shane McMahon, the son of World Wrestling Entertainment’s owner Vince McMahon — were taken to the Coast Guard station. Neither was reported to be injured. The pilot reported hearing a bang while flying and then had trouble controlling the helicopter and transmitted a Mayday and ditched. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
Industrial Accident & Rescue On July 18, 2017, the Bethpage Fire Department was notified about an industrial accident at Spice House on Bloomindale Road in Hicksville (Bethpage’s district). A 30-year-old workman was pulled into an augur machine, used to mix powders (in this case, cayenne pepper) in a long rectangular box, severely injuring his right arm, left leg and lower abdomen. The extrication took an hour to complete. This was a joint rescue by Bethpage, Nassau County police medics and Nassau County ESU. A surgeon was transported to the scene in case a field amputation was required. The victim was freed just as the surgeon arrived. The victim was transported via NCPD ambulance to Nassau University Medical Center in critical condition. Thirty saw blades were used to cut the augur and several fans were put into operation to remove fumes from rescue tools and the substance. A truck shop next door assisted by providing extra saw blades. The victim was conscious throughout the ordeal. BFD Assistant Chief Kevin Isernia was incident commander and praised all the rescuers. Hicksville, South Farmingdale and Plainview covered Bethpage. - Fire News story by ex-Chief John F. Fitzwilliam, Bethpage PIO; photos by Kevin Imm
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Nice Landing on Sunrise The Brookhaven Fire Department and South Country Ambulance were both alerted on July 19, 2017, for a reported plane crash on Sunrise Highway in the area of Yaphank Avenue. Numerous SCPD units arrived to find a Cesna that had safely landed on Sunrise, just west of the Yaphank Avenue bridge. The pilot of the aircraft put the plane down on the side and taxied under the bridge and pulled off to the shoulder. The pilot was not injured. The FAA was notified and the plane was later towed back to Calabro Airport. - Fire News photos by David Rubin and Dennis Berger
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Fire News, September 2017, Page 45
Manorville Plane Crash
On July 16, 2017, the pilot of a small airplane walked away after he crashed landed into a section of woods on the southeast corner of North Titmus Drive and Moriches Middle Island Road. The pilot, who refused to give his name, was checked by medics from Manorville Community Ambulance, but refused medical assistance or transportation to the hospital. The Manorville Fire Department and Suffolk County 7th Precinct responded. Officials from the FAA and NTSB were notified. - Fire News photos by Thomas J. Lambui
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Centereach Car Into House On July 21, 2017, the Brookhaven Technical Rescue Team was activated for a call in Centereach. A car plowed into the 1-4 corner of a home on Elwood Road. The BTRT Task Force shored up the walls of the home so that the car could be safely removed without creating a collapse. - Fire News photos by Ron Monteleone and Dennis Whittam
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Fire News, September 2017, Page 47
Tech Rescue in Plainview On June 26, 2017, the Plainview Fire Department was alerted for a technical rescue call at the construction site on Old Country Road for a worker who had fallen into a basement. Arriving units found a worker had fallen 30 feet. Crews used ropes and a Stokes basket to remove the injured worker with assistance from the Bethpage’s Technical Rescue team. The man was airlifted to Nassau University Medical Center by NCPD helicopter. - Fire News photos by Kevin Imm
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1 Fatality at Jerusalem Ave. MVA One person was killed and two others were transported to area hospitals after a serious two-vehicle crash on the North Merrick/Uniondale border on June 5, 2017. The accident occurred on the east side of Jerusalem Avenue at the Meadowbrook Parkway overpass. Uniondale firefighters and police ESU were on the scene. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Freeport MVA Late on June 6, 2017, the Freeport Fire Department was called to an MVA with possible car fire at the intersection of South Long Beach Avenue and Whaley Street. Units were met with a car-versus-pole with negative fire; however, the driver’s door needed to be removed. Heavy Rescue 217-2 put tools into operation, and the driver, the only occupant in the vehicle, was transported to an area hospital. Units were under the command of Chief of Department Colgan. - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com
Stewart Manor MVA The Stewart Manor Fire Department responded to a multi-vehicle accident on Stewart Avenue and South 12th Street on the morning of May 21, 2017. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Melville Crash Injures Three
Lindenhurst Overturn
The Melville Fire Department responded to a two-vehicle crash on New York Avenue and Wolf Hill Road on June 11, 2017. Three patients suffered injuries, including a pregnant woman, and were transported to Huntington Hospital by the Melville Rescue Squad. Melville firefighters removed a door from one of the cars. Four ambulances, an engine, heavy rescue truck and paramedic unit were dispatched under the command of Chiefs Jason Bernfeld, David Kaplan and Bill Schmitt. - Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
On June 17, 2017, the Lindenhurst Fire Department was called to an MVA with reported overturn at North Greene Avenue and John Street. The driver of an SUV collided with a parked car, causing the SUV to overturn. The driver and passenger exited the vehicle prior to fire department arrival. Assistant Chiefs Santoli, Palermo and Collins responded along with Engines 1-6-2, 1-6-22, Heavy Rescue 1-6-5, Ambulances 1-6-7 and 1-6-17, and Fire Police 1-6-8. The two people in the SUV were taken to Good Samaritan Hospital. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Bethpage Car vs. Pole On June 23, 2017, the Bethpage Fire Department was alerted for a car-versus-pole with entrapment and fire. A medic was first on the scene and reported no fire or pin. The driver was transported to a local hospital. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
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Fire News, September 2017, Page 51
Melville Propane Leak
The Melville Fire Department was alerted for reports of a gas leak on Landaulette Court, on July 21, 2017. Firefighters discovered that a construction crew hit the relief valve on a 550-gallon underground propane tank, causing a major gas leak. Six nearby homes with about 15 people and several pets were evacuated. Crews were under the command of Chief Jason Bernfeld, supported by Assistant Chiefs Chris Nolan and David Kaplan. The Hicksville Hazardous Materials Team was requested to respond, and they were able to plug the leak and safely secure the tank. Huntington Manor assisted, while Plainview provided standby. Suffolk Police ESU also was on scene. The incident was brought under control in about 45 minutes, and residents were allowed back into their homes. - Fire News story by Steve Silverman, photos courtesy Melville FD
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Smith Point Drowning
On July 30, 2017, the Mastic Beach Fire Department was dispatched for a water rescue at the Smith Point County Park. Reports were given that a male swimmer was missing in the ocean. Numerous agencies were mutual aided for boats and dive teams to the scene. Crews
searched for over two hours before being called off due to visibility. The incident was turned over to Suffolk County Police and US Coast Guard as a recovery mission. The man’s body was recovered the following day. - Fire News photos by Bryan Lopez
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Fire News, September 2017, Page 53
Fatality at Yaphank MVA The Yaphank Fire Department responded to an MVA on East Main Street on July 27, 2017. The driver was killed after losing control and striking a tree. - Fire News photo by Thomas J. Lambui
3 Hurt in Jericho 2-Car The Nassau County Police and Jericho Fire Department responded to an accident in front of Home Depot on Jericho Turnpike in Jericho on July 25, 2017. Responders encountered three people injured in the two-vehicle broadside collision. One of the passengers had to be extricated using hydraulic tools. The injured were transported to area hospitals with non-life threatening injuries. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
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NYS Junior Championship Drill July 30, 2017
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL FOR A GREAT SEASON! Place 1st 1st 3rd 4th 5th 5th
Team Hagerman Jr. Gamblers Bay Shore Jr. Redskins Central Islip Jr. Hoboes Farmingville Jr. Bandits East Islip Jr. Guzzlers Lindenhurst Jr. Snails
Place 33 33 23 19 10 10
-Fire News photos by Kim Versheck
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Nassau County Drill July 8, 2017 Place 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 4th
Team West Hempstead Port Washington Oyster Bay Hicksville North Merrick -Fire News photos by Bill D'Alessandro
Points 25 19 15 11 11
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Fire News, September 2017, Page 57
5th Bn. Old Fashion Drill On June 17, 2017, the City of Glen Cove Volunteer Fire Department hosted the 2017 5th Battalion Old Fashion Drill at Tappan Beach in honor of their 180th anniversary. Teams from various 5th Battalion departments competed against each other using old fashion firefighting techniques through nine events. This year, the Oyster Bay Teddy’s Boys claimed victory with a total of 39 points for the day. -Fire News photos by OvertheEdgePhotos.com
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Riverhead Invitational July 15, 2017 Place 1st 2nd 2nd 4th 5th
Team West Sayville North Lindenhurst Central Islip Farmingville Bay Shore
Points 24 22 22 14 11
- Fire News photos by Mike Heller
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Lindenhurst Parade Kicks off the Season June 3, 2017 -Fire News photos by Kim Versheck
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LIEVT Visit the FDNY Fleet Shops On August 3, 2017, members from the Long Island Emergency Vehicle Technicians (LIEVT) association took a trip to the FDNY Fleet Service in Queens. Members from the LIEVT were shown how the mechanics, who work on the FDNY trucks, deal with the job of keeping the large fleet in service. The tour showed all the different parts of the shop (welding, woodworking, machine shop, tire shop) needed to keep the FDNY in service. - Fire News photos by Bill D’Alessandro
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Islip Firefighters Museum Grand Opening
President Edward Tully of the Islip Town Firefighters Museum and Islip Town Firefighters-EMS Museum and Education Center on - Fire news photos by Kevin J. Parkan; Douglas Kronenberg, the Suffolk County Region 7 State Director of June 24, 2017. Charles A. Murphy, CIFD Photo Unit; and Joseph C. Sperber the NYS Fire Police Association attended the grand opening of the
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Islip Firefighters Museum...continued
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MOTLEY CREWS OF THE MONTH
Members of Long Beach Engine 2341 at their annual rig inspection on May 27, 2017. - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com
Bethpage Fire Department Fire Police. - Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
Centerport Fire Department takes up after a recent house fire. - Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
East Northport Chiefs and Commissioner check out the exhibits at the Mega Show. - Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
Melville Fire Department extrication crew following a heavy rescue demo at their open house. - Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
Riverhead FD EMS. - Fire News photo by Thomas J. Lambui
Riverhead Fire Department members. - Fire News photo by Tom Lambui
Members of Brentwood Truck Company at the scene of a truck fire on the LIE South Service Road on April 17, 2017. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
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Up Close & Personal
Fire News, September 2017, Page 65
Hail to the Chiefs Suffolk County Fire Chiefs’ Council past-President Anthony LaFerrera (front center), is saluted in his new position as Director of the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs. (From left): Suffolk Chiefs President Scott Thebold, Suffolk Chiefs past-President Ron Barz, and Suffolk Chiefs and New York State Chiefs past-President Don Corkery. - Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
Firefighter Brandon Bassett (left) and Brandon Figueroa of the Farmingville Fire Department Truck Company. - Fire News photo by Amanda Coffey Chief Russo of the Farmingville Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Amanda Coffey
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FHEXPO17: ENHANCING YOUR EDUCATION Firehouse Expo 2017 offers more workshops than ever before, including 10 pre-conference workshops, a full two days of community risk reduction, and four new exciting hybrid workshops combining intense classroom instruction with high-impact hands-on training. The main conference is also action-packed, including more than 140 educational and marquee sessions featuring high-profile events and some of the most critical topics in the American fire service with the most one-on-one, student-focused instruction of any national conference. The exceptional lineup of educational programs covers a variety of topics that are critical to your day-to-day operations and your long-term growth in the fire service. Tactics-focused sessions are designed to enhance your incident scene skill sets, while strategy- and leadership-focused sessions will help develop your decision-making, personnel management and general fire station or department operations. “Firehouse is excited to be back in Nashville for our second year, and this conference promises to be even more action-packed than last year,” said Firehouse Editor-in-Chief Tim Sendelbach. “Each class is designed and focused on making sure you get the attention you need to learn and apply the skills you learn at Firehouse Expo.”
Pre-Conference Sessions Tuesday, Oct. 17 & Wednesday, Oct. 18 As part of its pre-conference lineup, Firehouse offers a variety of exciting educational sessions, including those focused on WUI command, fire research, leadership, first-due strategic responsibilities, tactical resiliency and more. Also included in the pre-conference programming is Firehouse’s Community Risk Reduction program. Presented in partnership with the National Fire Sprinkler Association (NFSA), this program focuses on improving the firefighters’ work environment, working with code officers to create a safer community and more. Main Conference Sessions Thursday, Oct. 19-Saturday, Oct. 21 Don’t miss Expo sessions focused on forcible entry, rapid-intervention teams, mayday events, survival skills, wind-impacted fires, building live-fire training props, hazmat operations, railroad incidents, fire prevention, diversity issues, PTSD and stress management, initial attack line skills, developing a healthy and fit firehouse culture, tower rescues, social media policies, search and rescue, managing staffing limitations and much more. To learn more and register, visit firehouseexpo.com.
HONORING OUR FALLEN FIREFIGHTERS
Register for the 3rd Annual National Stair Climb for Fallen Firefighters at Belmont Park • Can’t be in New York? Join in the virtual climb! • The event will take place on Sunday, October 1, 2017, at Learn more at www.nationalstairclimb.org Belmont Park. Register in advance at www.nationalstairclimb.org. • Proceeds benefit FDNY Counseling Services Unit (CSU) • Fees: $35 for the Climb. $50 for the Climb and After Party. and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) $50 for Climb Supporters and After Party floors in the Twin Towers. All climbers will receive a t-shirt and On October 1, 2017, join hundreds of other firefighters in New a name badge for the firefighter they are honoring. York to honor the fallen at the 3rd Annual National Stair The stair climb is a family event and we encourage Climb for Fallen Firefighters at Belmont Park. you to bring your spouses, children, family and “The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation perfriends. An After-Climb Party and Races will begin at forms extraordinary work providing resources for the 1130, featuring a BBQ buffet and unlimited draft beer families of fallen heroes across the country,” said Fire and soda. There will also be bounce castles, pony Commissioner Daniel A. Nigro. “By climbing steps rides and fun for the entire family. In addition, the each year, every participant not only raises funds to New York Racing Association will raffle two 2018 support the families of FDNY members who made the Belmont Stakes Day reserved seats valued at $200 each, Supreme Sacrifice, they also ensure those we have lost and will assign a minimum of five race names for the FDNY are never forgotten.” to use to honor their fallen. For more information and to register, Gates open and on-site registration begins at 0830. Firefighters will climb the equivalent of 110 stories to symbolize the number of go to www.nationalstairclimb.org.
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.” T h e 3 0 t h F D S O A A n n u a l 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.
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Fire News, September 2017, Page 67
Up Close & Personal
Following the Family Tradition Third Assistant Chief Brett Tepe of the Dix Hills Fire Department is a third-generation firefighter at the Dix Hills Fire Department. He is wearing the Chief’s helmet shield of his grandfather Philip A. Tepe, who was Chief of the Department from 1968-1970. Brett’s dad is ex-Chief and Commissioner Philip H. Tepe. - Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
Suffolk FRES Coordinators Levittown Fire Department Ladder 6 Captain James Behrens at a recent job. - Fire News photo by Kevin Imm
Suffolk County Fire Rescue Coordinators Bruce Smith (left), and Scott Dalrymple from the Second Division assisting the Melville Fire Department at a gas station fire. - Fire News photo by Steve Silverman
Page 68, Fire News, September 2017
Wantagh Awards Haps Scholarships
On June 5, 2017, the Wantagh Fire Department awarded the 28th Annual William A. Haps Scholarships to six graduates from area high schools at the department’s regular meeting. The Scholarship is awarded in memory of Mr. Haps, who died in 1989, in honor of his 42-years of commitment to the department. To date, over $125,000 has been awarded to local scholars. This year’s recipients were introduced by Firefighter Jeff Brown from the Scholarship Committee as family, friends, school representatives and firefighters looked on. Receiving Scholarships were Jillian Mullane (MacArthur HS); Joseph Grabkowitz and Courtney Cardona (Wantagh HS); Patrick Minogue (Island Trees HS); and Bailey Bischoff and Samantha Jaworski (Seaford HS). The Ladies Auxiliary provided some light refreshments for the scholarship recipients and their families after the awards were presented. - Fire News photo by Kevin Regan, Wantagh FD PIO
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Brookhaven Hospital Honors Mastic Ambulance Corp.
A little more than two months after their ambulance caught fire at the Emergency Department of Brookhaven Memorial Hospital Medical Center, the hospital’s President and CEO Richard Margulis, along with ER Doctors Carl Goodman and Michael Yeh, met with the members of Mastic Volunteer Ambulance Corps and expressed gratitude for Mastic’s long-standing support of the hospital as well as their shared mission of providing care for the community. He also spoke about the hospital’s support of EMS through the Brookhaven Hospital EMS Pledge, before presenting a plaque to Mastic Chief Maria Landman. The plaque included two sprinkler heads that helped control the fire. Mr. Margulis compared the two organizations to the sprinkler heads saying, “While most people don’t take notice of a sprinkler system, it’s there and ready when you need it. - Fire News photo provided
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FM Neil Thomas Honored for Save
An award was presented to Fire Marshall Neil Thomas by Brookhaven Supervisor Ed Romaine for saving the life of a 40-year old man found slumped over the steering wheel. Thomas and the man were stopped at a traffic light. After trying to wake the man without success and seeing his lips blue and eyes dilated, it became
evident the man had overdosed. Fire Marshall Thomas, who had received his Narcan kit and training six weeks prior, administered the drug and brought the man back to life. South Country Ambulance transported the man to the hospital. - Fire News photo by Jim Dunn
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Firefighters Eat Clams for Wounded Warriors On July 16, 2017, Peter’s Clam Bar and Restaurant in Island Park, along with the help of the Town of Hempstead and the Island Park Fire Department, hosted their fundraising Annual Clam Eating Contest with the proceeds going this year to Nassau County Firefighters Operation Wounded Warrior (NCFF-OWW). Island Park ex-Chief and Hempstead Town Councilman Anthony D’Esposito were the MCs as firefighters gulped down the clams. In a preliminary round, 18 firefighters consumed over 1100 clams in six minutes. In the final winning contest, Elmont Firefighter Charlie Fries and Lawrence-Cedarhurst Firefighter Andrew Helicher tied with both consuming 39 clams in two minutes. Hempstead ex-Chief Charlie Hendry came in next, eating 38 clams. Both the winners made a donation to NCFF-OWW. The winners were congratulated by the NCFFOWW Board of Directors and were also given new 2017 NCFF-OWW t-shirts. Prior to the contests, NCFF-OWW Chairman Joe O’Grady of the Floral Park Fire Department thanked everyone for participating in the contest and thanked them for their support. The owner of Peter’s, Butch Yamali, president of the Dover Group in Freeport, was also thanked for his generosity and support. - Fire News story by Steve Grogan, photos by Brian Grogan and K2MPhotography.com
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Obituaries
Wading River’s Michael Wiwczar
On August 5, 2017, the Wading River Fire Department laid to rest 50-year member and Honorary Chief Michael Wiwczar. Mike was also a Fire News photographer, who covered the Suffolk County area. He will be missed by everyone whose life he touched. - Fire News photos by Bryan Lopez
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Obituary
Holbrook’s Kevin Kortlang The Holbrook Fire Department mourned the loss of firefighter and 30-year life member Kevin Kortlang on August 2, 2017. Kevin passed away on July 29, 2017. He was the loving husband of Carmela and devoted father of Samantha. He was beloved uncle of Marissa, Cassandra, Brittany, Zachary, Courtney, Malarie, Kaitlyn, Victoria, Peter and Kaylee. Kevin was Assistant Fire Chief of Crash Fire Rescue at Republic Airport and a member of Holbrook Eagle Engine Company #2 and will be greatly missed at the firehouse. - Fire News photos by Bryan Lopez
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Fire News, September 2017, Page 75
Obituary
Melville’s Fred R. Harrison Fred R. Harrison, the former Assistant Director of the physical plant at Farmingdale College and a long-time member of the Melville Fire Department, answered his last alarm on July 21, 2017. Fred was born in Setauket on December 26, 1928, to Fredrick and Amelia. Fred and his family lived on the Roads End Farm on the Country Estate of Edward L. Tinker in the Village of Poquott. He Graduated from Port Jefferson High School in 1946, and the following year joined the Setauket Fire Department. In 1950, Fred graduated from the Agricultural and Technical College at Farmingdale, and enlisted in the Army. He was initially assigned to Fort Sill, Oklahoma, where he developed an appreciation of cowboy boots, which he came to wear on a daily basis. In 1951 Fred was transferred to the Occupation Force in Germany where he served with the Army Corp of Engineers until his discharge in 1952. On his return, Fred was hired by Country Gardens as their head Foreman. During his 15 years with this company, he supervised many large projects in the metropolitan area including the 1964 Worlds Fair, landscaping the Long Island State Parkway system and the building of the Dix Hills Golf Course. Over the past 58 years Harrison served the Melville Fire Department as a Firefighter, Chief and Commissioner. Fred has a long history with the fire service dating back to 1947 when he joined the Setauket Fire Department, following in the boot prints of his father,
Fredrick Harrison as ex-Captain and Commissioner. In 1959 Fred joined the Melville Fire Department and became its 91st member. From 1961 to 1965 he served as a Hose Company One officer and moved up the ranks serving as Assistant Chief from 1966 to 1971. Fred was elected as the 14th Chief of the Melville Fire Department on January 1, 1972. Chief Harrison was a progressive thinker who recognized the importance of increasing the level of emergency service provided to the residents of the community. As Chief of the Department, he became aware of the Advanced Life Support program, which was in effect in Nassau County. Together with members of the Department’s Rescue Squad, and cooperation of the Nassau County Medical Center, the first Suffolk County Fire Department Advanced Life Support Unit was placed into operation in Melville. In 1973, Chief Harrison was invited to a demonstration of a new hydraulic rescue tools to assist with extrication of crash victims. He was instrumental in convincing the Melville Board of Fire Commissioners to purchase the tools, making the Department the first in Suffolk County equipped with these devices. In 1974, the Huntington Town Board, seeing a need for the coordination of emergency medical services among fire departments within the town, created an Emergency Medical Services Committee. Fred was appointed to a five-year term to the committee by Supervisor Jerome Ambro and and served as its first
Chairman. Under his leadership the Committee worked to create the Huntington Community First Aid Squad, which provides EMS for those areas of the Town of Huntington not protected by fire department EMS. Fred was elected to the Melville Board of Fire Commissioners in 1975 and served for 20 years, four consecutive five-year terms ending in 1995. As a Board member he was an advocate of increasing the members training and providing the department with the most updated equipment. While serving as Chairman of the Board of Fire Commissioners Fred proudly swore in his son, James as the 26th Chief of the Department in January 1994. Fred remained an active member for 58 years. He will be remembered as a dedication and commitment to the Melville Fire Department. - Fire News story by Tom Pesce
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Fire News, September 2017, Page 77
Obituary
NYSAFC Mourns Past President Arthur W. Lewis Arthur W. Lewis, who served as president of New York State Association of Fire Chiefs (NYSAFC) from 2000 to 2001, passed away on July 22, 2017. Arthur joined the fire service in 1953 and served as chief of the Freeport Fire Department in Nassau County from 1976 to 1977. Lewis previously served as deputy chief from 1974 to 1975, held all company offices within the department, and was a 64-year member and ex-Captain of the Bayville Hose Company No. 3. He also was a past-Warden, with service on many fire department committees. Lewis was an active member of numerous state and county fire service organizations, including the Fire Chiefs Council of Nassau County. He served as president of the Nassau County Firemen’s Association (1976), president of the Executive Council of Firematic Associations of Nassau County (1982-1983), chairman of the Second Battalion Fire District (1985), and Nassau County director for the Southern New York Volunteer Firemen’s Association. Lewis also was a member of the South Shore Volunteer Fire Department’s Association and an original member of the Vocational Education and Extension Board’s Advisory Committee. A longtime member of the Firemen’s Association of the State of New York, Lewis was a past president of the board of trustees for the FASNY Firemen’s Home and served as a trustee from 1982-1992. He was a member of NYSAFC since 1974, Lewis served on the Conference Committee from 1977 until his election to the board of directors in 1992. His father, Kenneth, also served as a member of the NYSAFC board of directors for many years. Lewis served in the United States Army from 1957-1959. - Fire News photo provided
Centereach Ex-Chief Laurence McGrath It is with deep regret the Centereach Fire Department announced the passing of Life Member, ex-Chief, and past-Commissioner Laurence ‘Jerry’ McGrath. Jerry McGrath has been a member of the Centereach Fire Department for over 50 years. Joining the Department in 1967, he moved up into the officer ranks in 1970 as Lieutenant of Rescue Company 1. In 1972 he was the first-ever Captain of the newly formed Engine Company 3, which he served in both 1972 and 1973. McGrath held the rank of Assistant Chief from 1975 to 1979. In 1980 he was elected Chief of the Department. He then ran for Fire Commissioner in which he served a five-year term from 1983 to 1987. He also served as Vice-President of the Centereach Fireman’s Benevolent Association. The members of the department are very saddened by the loss of a great man, a great leader and brother firefighter. We send our deepest condolences to his family and friends. Rest easy Chief, you will not be forgotten. - Fire News story by Matt Gehm
Page 78, Fire News, September 2017
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Obituaries
Suffolk County Fire Academy’s Chief Tom Kost
It is with deep regret that the Suffolk County Fire Academy announces the passing of past Executive Director Thomas Kost. Tom was a 50-year member of the Lindenhurst Fire Department and was retired from the Long Island Rail Road. A firematic service was held on August 8, 2017.
Donations may be made in memory of Tom to the Alzheimer’s Association of Long Island. - Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
Page 80, Fire News, September 2017
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