VOLUME 10, NO. 9
Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes In NY State
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
JULY 2017
Story on page 6. - Fire News photo by Dennis Whittam
Fire News Welcomes all to the NYS Fire Chiefs Expo See Us At The Event Center Booth 1121 – New York State Edition –
FireNews.com
Fire News, July 2017, Page 3
In this issue... Buffalo 2-Alarmer
Buffalo firefighters were called to the scene of Locust and Carlton Street for a house fire. See page 8
Fatality at Schenectady Blaze
Schenectady firefighters responded to a structure fire in the historic Stockade section of Schenectady. See story on page 14
Heavy Damage in Cranesville Fire
Mutual aid was called from Hagaman, Fort Johnson, Tribes Hill, West Glenville, Perth and the City of Amsterdam.
See story on page 21
Pets Perish in Amsterdam Blaze
The Amsterdam Fire Department responded to Elias Street for a report of smoke coming from a house. See story on page 27
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, EVELYN ALOISIO 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.
Columnists: Bruce Johnson, John Salka
Flames KO’d in Queens
Firefighters made quick work of an attic fire in a private dwelling on 217th Street near Linden Boulevard in the Cambria Heights section of Queens. See story on page 37
Richard E. Madill Laid to Rest
A procession of fire apparatus, ambulances and law enforcement vehicles behind a 1953 pumper.
COPYRIGHT 2017, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
For advertising rates and information, call (631) 776-0500 Press 3 Editorial: (631) 776-0500 Ext 281 Fax number: (631) 286-6866 Internet: http://www.firenews.com Email:nys@firenews.com
Six Editions Serving Long Island, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Pennsylvania Proud Member Of:
See story on page 54
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 4 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 32 Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 36 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 52 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 53
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, July 2017
FireNews.com
From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
Who is Maslow? One thing I was sure of when I joined my volunteer fire department, was that if I was to be successful, I needed to be a good listener and work hard at learning my new trade to be respected as a good firefighter. I was a believer in Maslow’s Hierarchy. (Google Maslow’s Hierarchy on your own!) Everyone, no matter how old you are, needs to have good self-esteem and a sense of belonging in society to feel a part of it. As an officer in the fire service, an understanding of Maslow’s theory can help you lead your company with a fair amount of success. But to fine tune this theory for the fire service, there are a few things all of you need to understand. Are you competent at what you do? This is a tough question to answer. Knowing how to do something, like starting a saw is a good thing. But when the blade needs to be changed, can you do it quickly and efficiently? For our new pump operators; can you safely get your crew to the scene of a fire? Will the nozzle team have their water when they need it? What do you do when you screw up? Do you accept responsibility for your actions? Mistakes happen. Don’t beat around the bush and make excuses for a mis-
take. When things go wrong, go back to the firehouse and sit down with the people who have some experience and ask them what you may have done wrong. During your critique, if you get several explanations about your mistake or problem you then need to seek additional help from places like your local fire academy or the manufacturer of the product with which you had a problem. Always remember that if people view you as not knowing about a task you are supposed to know, they will shy away from you and might even view you as being unsafe. Do you want to walk into a burning building with a partner who doesn’t know what to do should a problem arise? The firefighting culture can be tough. We tend to avoid change. When change occurs that you do not understand, remind yourself to be flexible and whatever you do, do not create your own interpretation of something and then pass it along to others. Educate yourself about the change by asking others their opinion. But always ask the person making the change to explain why the change is needed. The person making the change should also reflect on the concerns of the members. You gain the respect and get
the support of others when they see that you care about them. If you are a senior member, you need to make sure the new members of your department learn first-hand from your knowledge and experience. Attend probie drills. Simply by standing at the drill and observing, you can make positive suggestions to the trainees. Wearing your gear during the drill, sets the example for everyone to follow. Senior members can reinforce the reasons why we do things a certain way. It is simple for a new member to earn the respect of the company. You gain respect by understanding Maslow’s Hierarchy and by doing your job well. Remain committed to being the best at what you do. Remain dedicated to your passion to be an extraordinary first responder. -Dennis
FireNews.com
Fire News, July 2017, Page 5
3 Houses Go in Buffalo 3-Alarm
Buffalo Engine 33 responded to a fire in a 2-1/2 story house. 1/2 story structures were now on fire with two of them occupied, BFirefighters arrived to a fully involved structure with exposure 56 reported heavy fire in both exposures and a collapse of the main issues on the 2 and 4 sides and immediately declared a defensive fire building, and requested a third alarm. - Fire News photos by Donald Kilianski operation. As a precaution, B-56 requested an additional 2-and-1 to the scene, which was quickly upgraded to a second alarm. Three 2-
Page 6, Fire News, July 2017
FireNews.com
Cover Story
FF Ray Pfeifer Answers Last Alarm
On June 2, 2017, Firefighter Ray Pfeifer was laid to rest. Ray was a member of the East Meadow Fire Department and a member of the Fire Department of the City of New York’s Engine Company 40. Ray responded to the World Trade Center on 9/11 and worked with his brothers from Engine 40 to help recover those lost, including the members of his company. Because of Ray’s exposure to the toxic materials at the site, Ray, along with hundreds of other firefighters, police officers and workers, was diagnosed with cancer. Despite this, Ray continued his battle to save firefighters who worked at the WTC site and were diagnosed with cancer by making sure our political leaders supported the Zadroga Bill, which funds and establishes a health program to provide medical treatment for responders and survivors who experienced health complications related to the attacks. Ray’s ongoing support to all firefighters will always be remembered. May his family stand strong, as we remember Ray Pfeifer as a true American hero. Rest easy Ray, you will never be forgotten. -Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
Page 8, Fire News, July 2017
FireNews.com
Buffalo 2-Alarmer On April 12, 2017, Buffalo firefighters were called to the scene of Locust and Carlton Street for a house fire. Engine 21 arrived to heavy fire showing from the 2 side of a two-story house. With fire conditions not improving from an interior attack, crews went defensive. An additional two engines and two trucks were called for tower operations and manpower. - Fire News photos by Donald Kilianski
FireNews.com
Fire News, July 2017, Page 9
Guilderland House Fire
On April 4, 2017, Fort Hunter firefighters were called out to battle port-a-ponds made it difficult to keep hoses charged. The owner of a house fire on Curry Road in the town of Guilderland. Flames were the home escaped injury and several cats were saved by firefighters. - Fire News photo by Peter Barber visible from the rear of the home and a long stretch of supply line to
Page 10, Fire News, July 2017
FireNews.com
Colonie House Goes Recently, Stanford Heights firefighters battled a house fire on Central Avenue in the town of Colonie. Flames brought volunteers from Midway, Fuller Road and Colonie. The fire consumed the house. - Fire News photo by Peter Barber
Get Her Some Shoes East Fishkill firefighters responded to a camper fire on March 18, 2017, on Route 52. Firefighters arrived to find a camper fully involved with the female occupant standing barefoot in the parking lot in the 13-degree weather. - Fire News photo by Bill Johnson
All Hands in Queens FDNY units in the St. Albans section of Queens battled an all-hands blaze in a private dwelling on 205th Street on April 23, 2017. Many of the companies were relocated from other areas due to a four-alarm fatal fire just a few blocks away. The fire started on the first floor and was quickly extinguished. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Page 12, Fire News, July 2017
FireNews.com
Poughkeepsie House Fire
City of Poughkeepsie firefighters (Group 4) made quick work of a structure fire on March 12, 2017, at a two-family residence on Smith Street. Ladder 2 was out for fuel when the alarm was transmitted, arrived first and used a water can on the fire until an engine arrived. The fire was then quickly knocked down and firefighters assisted the occupants in salvaging their belongings. The Red Cross assisted those displaced by the fire. - Fire News photos by Bill Johnson
FireNews.com
Disaster Averted in Delmar
On May 17, 2017, the Delmar Fire Department responded to a vehicle fire, in which there were oxygen bottles, on Delaware Avenue at the Four Corners. The driver and a Bethlehem police officer were able to remove over 30 oxygen bottles from the vehicle. The fire was contained to the engine area of the vehicle. The road was reopened in about 40 minutes. No injuries were reported for the incident. -Fire News photos by Tom Heffernan
Fire News, July 2017, Page 13
Page 14, Fire News, July 2017
FireNews.com
Fatality at Schenectady Blaze
On April 24, 2017, Schenectady firefighters responded to a call for a structure fire on Green Street in the historics Stockade section of Schenectady. A second alarm was initially struck. Reports of a man trapped inside the main fire building shifted focus as flames began igniting the Cottage Row Apartment complex and a neighboring building under renovation. Niskayuna Fire District 1 and Scotia firefighters were called to the scene to assist. Several other volunteer fire companies surrounding Schenectady were called to stand by in their stations to cover the city. One man died in the fire and five others were left homeless. -Fire News photos by Peter Barber
FireNews.com
Fire News, July 2017, Page 15
Page 16, Fire News, July 2017
FireNews.com
Basement Blaze Beat in Queens Firefighters from Queens Village battled a basement fire in a private dwelling on 212th Street on May 18, 2017. Firefighters faced heavy fire conditions on arrival and an extra engine and truck were immediately called to the scene. Sweltering temperatures made fire operations extremely challenging, but the blaze was brought under control. -Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Pets Saved in Howard Beach On May 15, 2017, the residents of a Howard Beach, Queens house were lucky to escape injury after a blaze broke out on the second floor of their Bayview Avenue home. FDNY firefighters arrived and doused the flames and the residents were able to locate and remove two dogs and a cat from the building. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
FireNews.com
Fire News, July 2017, Page 17
Page 18, Fire News, July 2017
Juvenile Arrested in Schenectady
On May 8, 2017, Schenectady firefighters responded to a two-alarm fire on Francis Avenue. Upon arrival flames were venting from the C and D sides of the structure causing an exposure problem on the D side. Quick work knocked the fire down in less than an hour. A 15-year-old boy was arrested for setting the fire two days later. -Fire News photos by Peter Barber
FireNews.com
FireNews.com
Fire News, July 2017, Page 19
Page 20, Fire News, July 2017
Buffalo Goes to Work
Buffalo firefighters were called to Germania Street for a fire in a vacant dwelling. Upon arrival, Engine 25 intiated interior operations to battle the flames. Crews spent approximately 35 minutes extinguishing the fire and overhauling the dwelling. -Fire News photo by Donald Kilianski
FireNews.com
15 Injured in Staten Island Blaze
On May 21, 2017, at least 15 people were injured in a five-alarm fire that broke out in a Staten Island apartment house on Mill Road in the New Dorp Beach section of the borough. The blaze started on the fourth floor and quickly spread to the fifth and sixth floors. More than 150 firefighters and EMS personnel were on the scene at the height of the fire. -Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
FireNews.com
Fire News, July 2017, Page 21
Heavy Damage in Cranesville Fire
The Cranesville Volunteer Fire Departmentt was dispatched to a City of Amsterdam. The home sustained heavy damage to the secstructure fire on May 6, 2017. Upon arrival, firefighters found ond floor. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported. The cause of smoke visible and mutual aid was immediately called from the fire was under investigation. -Fire News photos by MarkPerfettiPhotography.com Hagaman, Fort Johnson, Tribes Hill, West Glenville, Perth and the
Page 22, Fire News, July 2017
FireNews.com
Not a Good Welcome to the Neighborhood
On April 14, 2017, the Albany Fire Department responded to a and two neighboring homes sustained some damage. Eighteen peohouse fire on Elk Street. “Upon arrival, they found a heavy fire con- ple were displaced, including one family that had just moved to dition in the rear of the building,� Albany Deputy Chief Joseph Albany with children and grandchildren. - Fire News photos by Tom Heffernan Gregory said. Crews got it under control in about 40 minutes. No one was injured. The rear of the house was completely destroyed,
Page 24, Fire News, July 2017
FireNews.com
Fatal Blaze in Queens Village
It was an extremely emotional and chaotic scene in the Queens Village section of Queens on the afternoon of April 23, 2017, after a raging fire destroyed one home and seriously damaged a second, while taking the lives of an adult, two teenagers, and two young children. The blaze broke out in a 2-1/2 story, wood framed house on 208th Street and quickly went to multiple alarms. FDNY firefighters were able to reach the victims of the blaze and remove them to
the exterior, transferring them to the waiting EMS crews. Family members and neighbors were grief stricken as they stood by and watched the tragic events unfold. The blaze eventually went to four alarms. The FDNY Fire Marshals were summoned to the scene to begin an investigation into the cause. -Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Page 26, Fire News, July 2017
FireNews.com
Washingtonville Assists Blooming Grove
Recently, the Washingtonville Fire Department established a land- saw accident. The man was transported to Westchester County ing zone for the Blooming Grove Volunteer Ambulance Corps, Medical Center by Hackenesack University Medical Center’s -Fire News photos by Gary Hearn which was treating a male with a serious injury received in a chain AirMed One.
FireNews.com
Fire News, July 2017, Page 27
Pets Perish in Amsterdam Blaze
On May 29, 2017, the Amsterdam Fire Department responded to Elias Street for a report of smoke coming from a house. Upon arrival, fire was found on the second floor of the structure. Two handlines were stretched and second and third alarms were transmitted. The fire was contained shortly thereafter. Many of the occupant’s pets were saved, but a few perished in the fire. The cause was under investigation. -Fire News photos by MarkPerfettiPhotography.com
Page 30, Fire News, July 2017
FireNews.com
Flames Show on Avenue I A two-alarm fire broke out on May 5, 2017, on Avenue I, in the Flatlands section of Brooklyn. Fire was found on the second floor and roof of a private dwelling. The fire was brought under control without incident. -Fire News photos by Lloyd Mitchell
FireNews.com
Two Injured in Bed-Stuy
Recently, two people suffered minor injuries at an all-hands fire on Rockaway Avenue in the Bedford-Stuyvesant section of Brooklyn. Units arrived to find heavy fire in an apartment above the Mr. Mango grocery store. The fire was knocked down without incident. -Fire News photos by Lloyd Mitchell
Fire News, July 2017, Page 31
Page 32, Fire News, July 2017
FireNews.com
All-Hands in Cypress Hills
FDNY units in the Cypress Hills section of Brooklyn battled an extension to the floor above. The fire was placed under control all-hands blaze on Fulton Street on the morning of March 25, within 30 minutes. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com 2017. The fire was on the first floor of a three-story dwelling with
LIBERTY ART WORKS BRONZE AXE PRESENTED TO PRESIDENT TRUMP The I-85 Bridge First Responders of the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department presented President Trump with a custom solid bronze fire ax. The Atlanta Fire Department commissioned the custom ax with Liberty Art Works, Inc. a company based in St. Louis, Missouri. Liberty Art Works, Inc., is a firefighter-owned and -operated business with over 40-years experience creating high quality bronze custom awards and monuments to honor the "Bravest and Finest" fire, police, EMS and military personnel. Being comprised of Firefighters, Liberty Art Works understands the importance of what their bronze sculptures represent and delivers the highest quality in each hand-finished piece. President Trump recognized this quality saying it was beautiful and he was appreciative of the ax. He then took time to personally sit with the First Responders recognizing their bravery and pledging the full support of his administration to all First Responders. Liberty Art Works takes great pride that all their items are designed, manufactured and assembled in the USA. To learn more about t h e i r
c o m p l e t e b r o n z e collection, please visit their website @ www.LibertyArtWorks.com o r c a l l 8 8 8 -4 11 -7 7 4 4 t o receive a catalog.
WATERWAY TWIN TIER IS EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE ITS EXPANSION! This spring their new division, Twin Tier Fire & Safety Services, will be offering comprehensive fire truck and pump maintenance as well as aerial testing at their facility or at your location. Jim Conboy, owner of Waterway Twin Tier since 2009, has seen the great need in New York and Pennsylvania for an independent third party tester for aerial devices. He has also had numerous requests for recommendations of a company to perform annual maintenance. “My customers constantly ask if I know anyone who can service their apparatus. So far, I've had to say no. Now I can say, Yes!” Twin Tier Fire and Safety Services’ technicians are EVT certified and the aerial testing technicians are NDT certified, all according to NFPA requirements. Generator and light tower maintenance will also be offered. The safety of the firemen, as well as the community, are just part of the driving force behind the creation of Twin Tier Fire and Safety Services.
“Our goal is to provide our maintenance customers with the same outstanding service and fair prices they currently receive from Waterway Twin Tier,” Conboy explained. Waterway Twin Tier currently tests fire hose, ground ladders, hard suctions tubes, appliances, nozzles and hydrants. Pump tests are conducted using their Draft Commander 3000®. Detailed records for each apparatus will be maintained and supplied to each department. Fire departments in New York and Pennsylvania can now enjoy quality preventative maintenance and Annual and five-year aerial testing by certified technicians from a company they know and trust. For more information, 570-767-1018 or info@twintierfireandsafetyservices.com.
FireNews.com
Fire News, July 2017, Page 33
Electrical Surge in Glenmont
On May 6, 2017, the Elsmere and Selkirk Fire Departments responded to the Walmart Store on 9W in Glenmont, for a hazardous condition in the automotive section of the store. Upon arriva, firefighters found an employee had been shocked by an electrical surge. Albany County Paramedics treated the victim and Bethlehem Volunteer Ambulance transported him to the hospital. The store was evacuated and closed until the problem could be rectified. - Fire News photos by Tom Heffernan
Page 36, Fire News, July 2017
FireNews.com
FireNews.com
Fire News, July 2017, Page 37
Flames KO’d in Queens
Firefighters made quick work of an attic fire in a private dwelling on 217th Street near Linden Boulevard in the Cambria Heights section of Queens, on May 11, 2017. Two handlines were stretched, but one was enough to knock down and extinguish the blaze. -Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Page 38, Fire News, July 2017
FireNews.com
Schenectady Car Fire
Schenectady firefighters battled a fully engulfed SUV, which caught the dashboard. He got out of the vehicle, grabbed belongings, and fire at the intersection of Furman Street and Bradley Boulevard. made it a safe distance away before flames completely consumed the -Fire News photo by Peter Barber The owner, who was not injured, noticed smoke coming from under vehicle.
FireNews.com
Fire News, July 2017, Page 39
Car Fire in Cronomer Valley In May, the Cronomer Valley Fire Department was called out to a car fire on Route 32 in the town of Newburgh at the Sunoco gas station. The fire was knocked down without incident. -Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick
Training Never Stops The Winona Lake Fire Department’s engine company held an extrication drill on May 1, 2017. -Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick
Page 40, Fire News, July 2017
FireNews.com
Carmel MVA Carmel Police, Mahopac Falls Fire Department, EMS and Fire Police, Mahopac EMS and EMStar paramedics responded to a single-car MVA on West Lake Boulevard recently. First arriving units found a vehicle off the side of the road atop a wall near the entrance to Vista Terrace with the driver out of the vehicle. As EMTs and paramedics tended to the driver, Assistant Chief Brian Sacher called off responding fire units. The driver was transported by Mahopac EMS to a local hospital with minor injuries. - Fire News photo by Jack Casey
Selkirk Handles Rear-Ender On May 18, 2017, the Selkirk Fire Department responded to a two-car MVA on River Road at Andres Lane. Upon arrival, firefighters found one vehicle had rear-ended another. Two people were treated at the scene by Albany County Paramedics, and transported to the hospital by the Bethlehem Ambulance Service. -Fire News photo by Tom Heffernan
FireNews.com
Fire News, July 2017, Page 41
Book Review
Stories of Fire by Paul Hashagen I recently read Paul Hashagen’s latest book, Stories of Fire. Starting off, I must say that when I started reading this book, I found I could not put it down. Almost magically, I became a part of each chapter as I remembered hearing about the famous fires that Hashagen discusses in his book. Paul not only writes about the landmark fires of the past, but he also writes about the heroes who fought the fires and what was learned after each battle. Throughout the 30 chapters in this book, Hashagen highlights fires that occurred around the world — starting in 1608. This book takes the reader through the evolution of the fire service. It was captivating to read about ideas that firefighters came up with in the 1800s to help battle the flames that were occurring throughout a growing America. I found it fascinating that the first ladder truck stood idle for almost two years before it was put to use at a San Francisco blaze in 1871. Would you believe the first bailout ‘system’ was orignated in 1830? Tidbits such as these are scattered throughout the book. As the stories guide your travel through time, you soon realize that many of the fires that occurred throughout history tested the fortitude of firefighters as they “... slid poles, harnessed horses, and crank started motorized apparatus.” As cities became more populated, buildings became taller and larger, the hazards of firefighting became greater. Stories of Fire talks about many of the problems firefighters had in the past — and are still having today — as they fight to save the residents of our cities. I am sure that as you look at the pen-and-ink drawings of the past, which are highlighted in the book, you will sit back and dream what it was like to be a firefighter in days of old. I read the last chapter – The Call — of this book several times. As I read it, I thought of why I became a firefighter. I sat back and thought that maybe someone from the past is living inside of me as I still get excited when the tones go off and I am called to duty. “As my mind fills with the ancient sensations, strength, weakness, fear and valor generated by primordial energy.” If you are new to the fire service, read this book so you know what great things those who came before you have done to make your future career safer. If you are at the end of your career, read this book so you can relate to the stories in the book and share your interpretation of each chapter around the coffee table. Well done Paul Hashagen! Thanks for continuing to remind us of our firefighting past. - Dennis
Page 42, Fire News, July 2017
FireNews.com
Schenectady Man Sets Wife, House on Fire
On March 4, 2017, Schenectady firefighters were called to Elmer Avenue for multiple calls reporting a structure fire with smoke and flames visible. Upon arrival, they were confronted with an active crime scene after a husband doused his wife in gasoline and lit a match. Information given to the police was that the estranged man was still inside armed with a shotgun. Firefighters moved handlines at 45-degree angles on either side of the house and poured water through a broken window, putting out a small fire in the living room. Police officers stood by with guns drawn as firefighters worked to put out the flames. As the SWAT team was being mobilized to the clear the house, the man turned himself in at police headquarters. The woman, was burned over 80 percent of her body and was taken by a LifeNet helicopter to the Westchester Burn Unit where she died from her injuries days later. - Fire News photos by Peter Barber
Page 44, Fire News, July 2017
FireNews.com
Landing Zone Secured in Chatham On May 12, 2017, the Chatham Fire Department responded to a bicycle accident at the intersection of Route 203 and Browning Hill Road. While Chatham Rescue attended to the patient, Lifenet helicopter was requested for a medevac. The Chatham Fire Department set up a landing zone at the Columbia County Fairgrounds. The patient was transported by LifeNet to Albany Medical Center. The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office and Chatham Village Police assisted. -Fire News photo by David Levow
Two Transported in Newburgh Recently, the Middlehope Fire Department was called out to an MVA on Route 9w. Two people were transported to an area hospital by the Town of Newburgh Volunteer Ambulance Corp. -Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick
FireNews.com
Fire News, July 2017, Page 45
Winona Lake Responds for MVA
Pole Struck in Newburgh
Winona Lake Fire Department’s engine company was called out to an MVA on Route 84, where a tractor-trailer and a car collided. -Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick
On April 18, 2017, the Cronomer Valley Fire Department responded to the report of an MVA in which a car had run into a pole on Union Avenue in the Town of Newburgh. Two people were taken to the hospital with injuries. -Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick
Page 46, Fire News, July 2017
FireNews.com
125th Anniversary of Firemen’s Home
On May 20, 2017, the East Greenbush Fire Company was honored to participate in the 125th Anniversary of the Fireman’s Home in Hudson, New York. As part of the weekend’s festivities, a spectacular parade, coordinated by the Fireman’s Association of th State of New York (FASNY), the Hudson Fire Department’s Inspection Day Parade, was conducted on the streets in the City of Hudson and concluded at the Fireman’s Home. Several fire companies from across New York State participated in the invitation-only morning parade, held under beautiful blue skies and comfortable temperatures. Lead by Chief Robert Lehmann and joined by the Red Caps Marching Band, East Greenbush is very proud to be awarded two
trophies for the company’s appearance in the line of march. The fire company was awarded second place for Best Appearing Fire Company (11 to 19 in line), and East Greenbush’s Color Guard garnered a third place Firematic Color Guard trophy. The entire company is thankful for the opportunity to be part of the 125th Anniversary and is proud of the company’s continued sponsorship of a resident room at the Fireman’s Home. The company commends FASNY for a memorable celebration and their laudable administration of this jewel for the firefighters of New York State. -Fire News photos by Martin E. Miller and Steve Lenz
Page 48, Fire News, July 2017
FireNews.com
Schenectady GLA MVA On February 18, 2017, Schenectady firefighters responded to a rollover MVA on Stanford Street and North Brandywine Avenue. The driver and passenger fled the scene after striking two parked cars and rolling a stolen SUV onto its roof. The suspects were apprehended later that night. - Fire News photo by Peter Barber
Lucky in Schenectady On March 3, 2017, Schenectady firefighters responded to Glenwood Parkway for a report of a tree being blown over onto a vehicle with the driver still inside. The driver self-extricated and was treated by Mohawk Ambulance personnel for a bump to the head when the roof caved in. The tree damaged two other vehicles. - Fire News photo by Peter Barber
FireNews.com
Always Helping the Community
Recently, the Mahopac Fire Department lent assistance to the Mahopac Middle School. Mahopac members Jimmy Stasiak and John Scerra, who is also a school custodian, along with their ladder truck helped replace the cable for the flag pole, which was damaged during recent stormy weather. Middle School custodian Mr. Hans said he was grateful for the lift. “We couldn’t have done it without those guys,” he said. - Fire News photos by Jack Casey
Fire News, July 2017, Page 49
Page 50, Fire News, July 2017
FireNews.com
Live Burn Held in Depew
The Depew Fire Department conducted a live burn in a residential structure on May 21, 2017. The burn took place on the future site of a Tim Horton’s Coffee and Bake Shop. Participating in the burn were crews from: Forks , Bellevue , Buffalo Niagara International, Hyview and Twin Districts, which provided the FAST. The Lancaster Volunteer Ambulance Corps provided first aid if needed. Thanks to the Depew Fire Department’s Ladies Auxiliary, which kept the firefighters hydrated and fed during the exercise. -Fire News photos by Jim Lepard
Page 52, Fire News, July 2017
FireNews.com
Car Show Held in Newburgh
On May 21, 2017, the Winona Lake Engine Company 2 held their 3rd Annual Car and Bike Show at the local Stop and Shop in the Town of Newburgh. Congratulations to all of the winners at the event. -Fire News photos by Vinnie Dominick
BUSINESSDirectory
IT PAYS TO ADVERTISE IN THE FIRE NEWS BUSINESS DIRECTORY CALL 631-776-0500 EXT. 3
Firefighter Cancer Support Network Together we can make a difference
Dennis Whittam
Fire Fighter
Antonio J. Cruz
New York Fire Photos
Director of New York State Cancer Survivor & Mentor
www.nyfirephotos.com Phone: 631-473-3821 Email: dwhittam@optonline.net
Visit your photos and purchase them online. www.FirefighterCancerSupport.org
Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund Brian J. Farrell Chairman 516-840-8839 cell 516-783-1996 office terryfund@terryfund.org www.TerryFund.org
AD UR E O Y ER H
Gary Margerum North East Regional Sales Manager Cell 970-420-1964 Phone 1-800-525-5224 Fax 970-667-4296 Email garym@supervac.com Super Vacum Manufacturing Co., Inc. P.O. Box 87, Loveland, CO 80539
To advertise in the Fire News Business Directory Call 631-776-0500 Ext. 3
Cell Phone: (631) 495-4222 Toll Free: (866) 994-FCSN E-Mail: MissleT75@aol.com
FireNews.com
Fire News, July 2017, Page 53
Bisognano Honored
Congratulations go out to past-Chief Joseph Bisognano of the West Albany Fire Department, who received the Law and Order Community Service Award on May 22, 2017. The award is given to one member of emergency medical services, fire services and police service. Members of West Albany Fire Department, along with Town of Colonie Fire Services Car 1 Richard Haack, were on hand to honor Chief Bisognano for this prestigious award given by the Joseph B. Zaloga Post 1520, American Legion. -Fire News photos by Lori Washburn
Page 54, Fire News, July 2017
Obituary
FireNews.com
Richard E. Madill Laid to Rest
A funeral for retired Town of Watertown Chief and retired Jefferson County Fire and EMS Coordinator Richard E. Madill was held on May 6, 2017. A procession of fire apparatus, ambulances, and law enforcement vehicles moved slowly behind a 1953 pumper that Chief Madill helped purchase back in the day. The procession began in the City of Watertown at Asbury United Methodist Church and made its way up Washington Street to Brookside Cemetery, where he was laid to rest. The four 5s were tolled and Assistant Fire Chief Brian Wilcox gave the call to dispatch to announce Madill’s final call. May Richard E. Madill rest in peace as he watches over us. -Fire News photos by Peter Barber
FireNews.com
Fire News, July 2017, Page 55