Fire News New York State, February 2020 edition

Serving NEW YORK S TATE Serving Fire, Rescue

VOLUME 13, NO. 4

W W W .FIRENE WS .COM

Fire,Serving Rescue & EMS Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes & EMS Heroes Heroes Since 1973 Since 1996 1973 FEBRUARY 2020

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- Fire News photo by Kenny Flynn

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In this issue...

East Glenville Structure Fire East Glenville firefighters battled a house fire on Cloverleaf Drive.

See story on page 7

4-Story Apartment Collapses in Peekskill The City of Peekskill Fire Department was dispatched for a report of an apartment complex fire.

See story on page 10

House Fire in Mahopac December ended with a call for a house fire on Nicole Way in Mahopac.

See story on page 15

Christmas Worker in Geneva The Geneva Fire Department, battled a Christmas Day fire at El Rancho Upholstery.

See story on page 16

MVA Could’ve Been Much Worse The City of Rensselaer responded for a tractor-trailer over the rails of the Dunn Memorial Bridge.

See story on page 18

A Service for New York State Firefighters and EMS Heroes 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: GREGORY JONES CONTRIBUTORS: Andrew Aguilar, Chris Aldous, Jeff Ambroz, Peter Barber, Kevin Barry, John Bashaw, Bill Bennett, Tom Bierds, Jeff Couch, Chris Creighton, David Denniston, Rick Douglas, Brian Duddy, Stan Dybus, John Falcone, Ken Flynn, Joe Fortunato, Eli Gill, Mark Gillen, Carol Greene, Tom Heffernan Sr., Greg Herman, Matt Hodge, Steve Hodgekiss, Robert Holley, Daniel Imfield, Andy Jarchin, Bill Johnson, Mark Johnson, Chris Kalisak, Charlie Keller, Jon Kemp, Gordon Kotars, David R. LaRocco, Stephen Lenz, Joshua Long, Mike Messar, Ralph Miele, Albert Mignone, John Miller, Martin E. Miller, Lloyd Mitchell, Brian Natoli, Carleton Raab, Robert Reynolds, Lauren Rivera, Stephen Schaefer, Deborah Schweikert, Tom Shand, John Shaw, Sharon Siegel, Robert Simpson, Joe Sperber, Bryan Sypniewski, Karen Todd, Kyle Townsend, Joe Turner, Michael VanDerLieth, Lori Washburn, D.B. Weimer, Stephen White.

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Obituary

Terry Farrell Fund’s Timothy Farrell Fire News announces the passing of Timothy Michael Farrell.

See story on page 22

PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 4 Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 16 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 22 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 22

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.

Page 4, Fire News, February 2020

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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor

Take Advantage of Winter Can you believe the weather we are having? Oops, I probably just jinxed us and the weather will turn for the worse. The question is; are you prepared to go into battle in subzero weather? Trust me when I tell you that fighting a fire in freezing temperatures is no joke. At the start of this year’s winter, we have been lucky temperature-wise, so far.

Keep in mind, that in the blink of an eye, things can change and we can be hit with a record-breaking blizzard and sub-zero temperatures.

Are you prepared to deal with frosted windows, slippery roads and the need to be cautious while responding to calls? How about stretching lines or operating from a ladder in sub-zero temperatures? For the new members, remember that frostbite is a serious issue, especially after the fire is knocked down and you are soaking wet. It is probably a good idea to keep extra gloves, ski hats and an extra sweatshirt on hand so that after the call, you can deal with freezing temperatures while packing away your equipment. Talk to someone who lives in a cold climate and ask

for suggestions in dealing with the cold.

Most EMTs are aware that the cold can complicate patient care. If you ride a squad, make sure you are prepared to keep the patient warm. Take the time to completely clear your car windows before responding. Years ago, members used cardboard to cover their windshields so that frost didn’t build up. Today, they sell windshield covers for this exact reason. Keep in mind, getting to the firehouse safely is imperative!

Winter is a good time to look at your county training schedule. Think about taking a class or two that will help you become a better responder. Prepare now to become next year's company officer. Go online and take those ICS courses that you have been meaning to take. Visit the FEMA website at www.fema.gov/training and take a class or two.

As a senior member of my department, I find myself visiting the firehouse for coffee.

While the coffee is brewing, I frequently review the pump panel of my truck. It has been awhile since I pumped my company

engine at a ripping fire. I want to make sure that I am not embarrassed when I am the guy responsible to get water to the nozzle crew in a speedy fashion.

I have always learned from the best.

These are the people who care and reach out above and beyond what they are expected to do. Are you in this group? To all members — not just probationary members — remember that being part of the fire-rescue and emergency services is a privilege and a lifestyle.

Lieutenant Joey DiBernardo once said, “Are you on the job or into the job?” Winter is a great time to go down to the firehouse to study your rig, familiarize yourself with the equipment placement on the truck and while you are at it, ask yourself; “Are you leaving a positive mark on your department?”

Stay warm and be safe!

-Dennis

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Fire News, February 2020, Page 5

ANNOUNCEMENTS YOGA AT THE ARCHVILLE FIREHOUSE

The statistics confirm that firefighters and police officers are more likely to die on the job from heart attacks than from work related injuries. This important statistic was the impetus for Northwell cardiologist Dr. Franklin

Zimmerman to establish a partnership with Club Fit called the Chief’s Challenge that awards a $1,000 prize for the fire and police department that exhibits a commitment to physical fitness.

Club Fit gives first responders a 50-percent discount on club dues, and this year the

Archville Fire Department’s commitment to physical fitness at Club Fit won the fire department the prize of $1,000.

The department decided to use the funds to begin yoga classes for its members.

For information contact Michael Baker 914645-8928.

Obituaries FDNY’S BRIAN W. CASSE With regret, the Fire Department of New York announces the death of retired Firefighter Brian W. Casse, E-294, appointed November 7, 1981, retired October 15, 2005, which occurred on December 4, 2019. This member bravely served this Department protecting life and property in the City of New York in the rescue and recovery at Manhattan

CHAPLAIN ROBERT E. VAUGHAN Robert E. Vaughan, retired Major of the Salvation Army, was promoted to Glory on Saturday, December 7, 2019, at the age of 91.

Robert was born on May 8, 1928, in Mt. Vernon. Robert had a true servant heart and lived out The Salvation Army motto; “Heart to God, Hand to Man.” Robert proudly served his country during World War II in the US Navy on the submarine USS Quillback and was honorably discharged in 1948. Robert married the love of his life, Ruth Courage in 1948. Following employment with the Bell

Box 5-5-8087 World Trade Center.

The heartfelt sympathy of the entire Department is extended to the family, relatives, and friends of the deceased in the midst of the great loss that they and the Department have sustained. The funeral took place on December 7, 2019.

- Fire News photo courtesy NYS Assocation of Fire Chaplains

Telephone Company and IBM; Robert and Ruth were called into full-time ministry. In 1959 they were ordained as ministers in The Salvation Army and served together for 34 years as active Salvation Army officers (pastors). For 59 years, Robert served as a Fire Department Chaplain in Butler County (PA), Nassau County, Rockland County and Monroe County (PA).

During his years with the fire department, he served as the State Chaplain for the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs. He also served as the National Chaplain for the United States Submarine Veterans.

Page 6, Fire News, February 2020

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Cover Story

Fatal Fire in Ramapo On January 11, 2020, the Hillcrest Fire Department was notified of a possible structure fire on Rockland Avenue in Ramapo. Toned out at approximately 0530, the initial dispatch also advised the responding units that an occupant was possibly trapped inside. Upon arrival, heavy fire was showing out the front, side and rear of half of the two-story home, rapidly extending to the rest of the structure.

Firefighters quickly stretched a line to the front and rear of the house, and made several valiant attempts to conduct searches. With the home already suffering from localized collapses, crews were driven back by the high heat and withdrawn from the interior. Despite the heroic efforts to rescue the trapped victim, his body was later found under the debris after the fire was extinguished. Extensive mutual aid was requested to assist, with at least one firefighter suffering seconddegree burns during the incident. The cause of the fire was under investigation by the Rockland County Sheriff’s BCI and the Town of Ramapo Police Department.

- Fire News photos by Kenny Flynn

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Fire News, February 2020, Page 7

East Glenville Structure Fire

East Glenville firefighters battled a house fire on Cloverleaf Drive on December 12, 2019, in East Glenville. A fire started in the kitchen and spread to the second floor. All occupants escaped safely.

Alplaus, Stratton Air Guard and Thomas Corners firefighters assisted at the scene.

- Fire News photos by Peter R. Barber

Page 8, Fire News, February 2020

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Year Ends with All-Hands South Jamaica House Fire

A fire broke out on the first floor of a six-story multiple dwelling on December 31, 2019, on Nostrand Avenue in Brooklyn. Units had trouble locating the seat of the fire. Searches of the apartment were negative, but one firefighter suffered a minor injury.

- Fire News photo by Lloyd Mitchell

FDNY fire units in Queens battled an all-hands blaze in a private dwelling on 142nd Street in the South Jamaica section on December 21, 2019. The fire was located in between the first and second floors and in the second-floor walls. Lines were stretched to extinguish the flames from the interior and to wash down on the exterior.

- Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

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Niskayuna Chimney Fire

Niskayuna Fire District 1 firefighters were called to Ray Street on December 14, 2019, to investigate heavy smoke in the area. During the investigation an chimney fire was located. The City of Schenectady sent Engine 4 and Truck 1 for mutual aid. The fire was quickly knocked down and the structure did not sustain any damage.

- Fire News photos by Peter Barber

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4-Story Apartment Collapses in Peekskill

On the evening of December 8, 2019, just after clearing another structure fire on Nelson Avenue, the City of Peekskill Fire Department was dispatched to the 1300 block of Crompond Road for a report of an apartment complex fire. First-due units arrived to find a 100- x 50-foot, four-story apartment complex well involved.

Command requested the 10-75 due to low hydrant pressure and a

tanker operation was initiated. A third alarm was struck as tankers set up for operation. After about and an hour the building, which was under construction, collapsed in on itself. Peekskill crews were on scene approximately 11 hours before clearing the scene.

- Fire News photos by Dave Kempter

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Fire News, February 2020, Page 11

2019 Ends with 2-Alarmer

At the end of December 2019, Schenectady firefighters were called out to battle a two-alarm residential fire on Santa Fe Avenue. Heavy smoke was coming from the eaves and second floor as flames began

venting from a window on the C side of the structure. All occupants escaped safely and no injuries were reported.

- Fire News photos by Peter Barber

Page 12, Fire News, February 2020

Cold Night Blaze in Peekskill

On the morning of December 3, 2019, just after midnight, the Peekskill Fire Department was dispatched to Ringgold Street for a structure fire with occupants possibly trapped on the second floor. Units arrived to a heavy volume of fire showing from the D side, extending to the attic area. Crews established a water source and quickly made sure everyone was accounted for. Snow and temperatures in the low 30s made for a tough fight. Mutual aid was called to the scene, and the incident took approximately two hours to get under control. By then the house was a total loss and the roof had collapsed.

- Fire News photos by Dave Kempter and PuckStopperPhotography.com

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Quick Response Saves Garage in Latham

On December 7, 2019, Latham and Verdoy responded to a structure fire on Old Sparrowbush Road in Latham. The residents had recently cleaned their fireplace and placed the ashes in a plastic bucket by their garage. The live embers melted the bucket and ignited the garage. Due to the quick response of the fire departments, only a small portion of the garage was destroyed and nothing inside, including a car, were damaged.

- Fire News photo by Lori Washburn

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Garbage Truck Fire

Watervliet Rekindle

Latham and Verdoy responded to a garbage truck fire in the early morning hours of November 29, 2019. The possible cause was a faulty block heater. The fire was contained to the engine and cab areas.

- Fire News photo by Lori Washburn

Maplewood and Latham returned to Tom and Jerry’s Car Wash for a rekindle after the building burned earlier on December 20, 2019. The long-standing fixture of Watervliet caught fire, with multiple departments from Cohoes, Maplewood, Latham and Boght responding to help bring the blaze under control. Later in the evening Maplewood and Latham returned to the scene to bring the rekindle under control. The building was completely destroyed.

Due to the diligence of the firefighters, the business that shared the parking lot was left untouched.

- Fire News photo by Lori Washburn

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Fire News, February 2020, Page 15

House Fire in Mahopac

A Good Deed in Mahopac Falls

December ended with a call for a house fire on Nicole Way in the Mahopac Fire District. Mutual aid came from Mahopac Falls, Yorktown, Croton Falls and NYSE&G, as stations that were responding were covered by other neighboring departments. Chief Bill Nikisher was Incident Command and positioned the ladder company in the driveway of the home to access the third-story fire.

Carmel Police responded with multiple units and Mahopac EMS was on location. A crew from NYSE&G, Battalion 16 and the Putnam County Fire Investigation Team also responded.

- Fire News photo by Jack Casey, PIO-MFVFD

Mahopac Falls Fire Department was dispatched to the Williamsburg Ridge section of the district for smoke in the structure. Rolling out in 18-degree weather, Captain Chris Tompkins and Assistant Chief Bob Trace arrived. The problem stemmed from a faulty heating unit. The owner of the residence took refuge in her vehicle along with her child and family pet. A neighbor approached a MFVFD Fire Police officer with the offer to take the family and pet into her home. We would like to thank the people that came out to make sure their neighbors were being cared for.

- Fire News photo by Jack Casey, PIO-MFVFD

Page 16, Fire News, February 2020

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Christmas Worker in Geneva

Occupants Escape Fire in Shortsville

The Geneva Fire Department, battled a Christmas Day fire at El Rancho Upholstery. Units arrived to smoke showing from the eaves of the structure. Crews made quick work of the fire and returned home to their families for Christmas gatherings.

- Fire News photo by John Greco

A fire was reported on December 30, 2019, in Shortsville. The fire, which started in a room off the kitchen, smoldered for some time before getting into the interior of the approximately 200-year-old structure. Two of the occupants made it out of the home through the front door, while a third occupant climbed down an outside ladder from the second floor. The home sustained heat, smoke and water damage. In addition to Shortsville and Manchester firefighters, crews from Port Gibson, Seneca Castle, Clifton Springs, the VA Medical Center and Canandaigua Emergency Squad also responded to the call.

- Fire News photo by John Greco

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Fire News, February 2020, Page 17

Flames on Arrival in Lancaster

On December 21, 2019, the Lancaster Fire Department received a call for a structure fire on School Street in the Village of Lancaster.

The call also had an automatic mutual aid assignment for the Depew, Twin District, Bowmansville, and Southline. The first arriv-

ing officer reported flames coming out of the front windows and a Christmas tree on fire. The fire was ruled accidental.

- Fire News photos by Jim Lepard

Page 18, Fire News, February 2020

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MVA Could’ve Been Much Worse

Rotterdam Rollover

On December 11, 2019, the City of Rensselaer responded for a tractor-trailer over the rails of the Dunn Memorial Bridge. This brought all the emergency services to the scene and NYS Department of Transportation. The driver went into the curve at the top and lost control on the ice. The trailer, carrying stone, tipped, skidding on top of the rail, but not going over unto the heavy traffic below.

- Fire News photo by Martin E. Miller

On December 27, 2019, dense fog was the leading cause of this rollover accident on Mariaville Road in the town of Rotterdam when the driver veered off the right side of the road. A culvert caused the pickup truck to roll onto its side. Plotterkill firefighters and EMS tended to the driver who sustained non-life-threatening injuries. He was taken by Schenectady Ambulance to Ellis Hospital for treatment.

- Fire News photo by Peter Barber

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Fire News, February 2020, Page 19

Michael Duffy Plaque Dedication in Brooklyn

On December 16, 2019, a plaque dedication was held for Firefighter Michael Leo Duffy (December 16, 1953 - August 8, 2017) at the quarters of FDNY Engine 310 and Ladder 174, Brooklyn’s “Snyder Island.” Mike died on August 8, 2017, of cancers related to his efforts at Ground Zero.

- Fire News photos by LiHotShots.smugmug.com

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Winona Lake Senior Dinner On December 15, 2019, the Winona Lake Engine Company held their Annual Senior Citizens Dinner. Thank you to the NFA-ROTC for helping out by serving at the event.

- Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick

Santa Stops in Winona Lake The Winona lake Fire Department Engine Company brought Santa Claus around the neighborhood as Christmas music played.

Members gave out candy canes to the spectators, including the police officers.

- Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick

Wreaths Across America On December 14, 2019, members of the East Greenbush Fire Company and Explorer Post traveled to Saratoga National Cemetery to participate in Wreaths Across America, which places Christmas wreaths on veterans’ graves across the country every year. The East Greenbush Fire Company, Ladies Auxiliary and the Explorer Post all donated wreaths this year. One of the tenets of Wreaths Across America is that has each wreath is laid, the name on the gravestone is read out loud, ensuring the our veterans are never forgotten.

- Fire News photo by Kurt Schlachter

Helping Santa in Mahopac Falls

For the past 50 years, Santa has asked the firefighters and EMTs of tradition that cements the Mahopac Falls fire family. the Mahopac Falls Fire Department to help him out during his - Fire News photo by Jack Casey, PIO, MFVFD busiest time of the year. The Candy Cane Run is a time-honored

Page 22, Fire News, February 2020

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Obituary

Terry Farrell Fund’s Timothy Farrell It is with sadness that Fire News announces the passing of Timothy Michael Farrell, who was born on September 17, 1957.

Tim help found the Terry Fund to memorialize his brother Terry, who was killed on September 11, 2001. Through the dedicated efforts of Tim and the Terry Fund, the organization has expanded across the country, with 17 chapters from New York to California, including Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Nevada. The fund oversees several charitable efforts, including blood drives, scholarships and the transfer of surplus equipment from fire departments to other agencies in need.

Tim Farrell, who operated R.P. McMurphy’s Public House in Wantagh for nearly 40 years, died on December 14, 2019, at Good Shepherd Hospice. He was 62.

Donations in his memory can be made to the Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund.

-Fire News photos

by Harry Loud

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