Fire news new york state 9 15

VOLUME 8, NO. 11

W W W .FIRENE WS .COM

Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes In NY State SEPTEMBER 2015

See page 6 for full story.

- Fire News photo by Kenny Flynn

Fire News Welcomes All To FASNY and IAFC – New York State Edition –

Page 2, Fire News, September 2015

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Fire News, September 2015, Page 3

In this issue... .

2-Alarmer in Amherst

A two-alarm fire broke out at a popular restaurant on Transit Road in Amherst.

See story on page 7

Home Burns in Latham The Latham Fire Department was called to a structure fire on Western Avenue.

See story on page 10

Bridge Rescue in Selkirk

The State Police requested the Selkirk Fire Department for assistance in rescuing an injured construction worker.

See story on page 12

Pet Saved in Queens Fire

FDNY units were on the scene of a fire in a four-story, occupied, multiple dwelling on 60th Place.

See story on page 14

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, 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, 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 COPYRIGHT 2015, THE FIRE NEWS LLC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Fatality in DWI Head-On

The Rensselaer County 911 center received calls for a serious MVA on Route 20 in which several people were seriously injured.

See story on page 23

Latham Lightning Fire

As an extremely powerful electrical storm moved through the area, an apartment complex in the Hudson Preserve was hit by lightning.

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PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 4 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 14 Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 16 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 25

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 LLC, with corporate offices at 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713.

Page 4, Fire News, September 2015

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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor

Timeto to Time Change Seasons!

Change Seasons!

My head is spinning as I write my September editorial. Typically I focus in on an idea, research it, and then share my thoughts with you. When I sat down to write my September editorial, my thoughts scattered and I realized that September is a month which, as first responders, we must give special thought to. It is a time to redirect our thoughts and actions.

School will be reopening and our children will be heading back to class. As responders we must give extra attention to our school crossings and neighborhood streets to watch out for that kid whose mind is on getting to school on time and not on doing it safely. I know you are always cautious when responding to calls, but rethink your response to the firehouse in your personal car and driving your departments' vehicles. Seriously take the time to slow down so that you could safely stop to avoid hitting that overzealous child who might not hear your sirens and see your lights. What?

Who isn't going to hear my sirens and see my flashing lights? I remember a lady walking out

in front of a responding apparatus in Queens.

The driver and the officer thought they were going to run this pedestrian over as she stepped in front of the rig. Returning to quarters, they saw the lady shopping. They stopped the rig and got out to talk to her. She shook her head in tears and said, “I’m sorry, I never saw you, I was thinking about my husband who passed away this morning and I wasn’t paying attention.” Wow, the officer felt horrible!

Fortunately the driver of the rig was paying attention and was able to stop within inches of the woman.

Reminder: Is your Fire Prevention Program in order? Now is the time to order supplies and to review your program, updating it to grasp the attention of your community.

When teachers return to school, the first thing they do is review their goals and objectives.

You should do the same thing; after all you are a teacher of fire safety. Write down what you are planning to achieve with the thousands of children you will be teaching fire safety.

Practice your lessons before you get up in

front of the class and … dress to impress!

In September, I pause to give remembrance to all responders and workers who lost their lives on 9/11. I think of the families that were broken apart by this tragic day. I will attend a memorial mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Manhattan and I will work my way down to the National September 11 Memorial and Museum to say a prayer at the Reflecting Pools.

Finally, I thank FDNY Commissioner Daniel A. Nigro, FDNY Chief of Department James Leonard and the numerous chiefs, officers, firefighters and friends in government, who always come out to support the families that have lost a loved one. On September 11, 2015, start your day in prayer to remember the fallen responders whose lives were lost as a result of the attack on the World Trade Center.

Join me and stop to give thought to those that gave all on 9/11 and to those that have passed as a result of operating at the WTC site. …Dennis

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ANNOUNCEMENTS DEADLINE FOR NYS COLLEGE STUDENTS APPLICATION FOR FASNY TUITION REIMBURSEMENT: OCTOBER 2 The Firemen’s Association of the State of New York (FASNY) has announced an October 2, 2015, application deadline for tuition reimbursement through their historic educational initiative, the Higher Education Learning Plan (HELP). This statewide community college tuition reimbursement program is geared towards recruiting and retaining volunteer firefighters throughout New York State.

“The FASNY HELP program has benefitted hundreds of dedicated firefighters serving communities across the State. In addition to helping meet the staffing needs of local departments, a better educated firefighter is simply a better firefighter. For the student volunteers and the fire departments, this is the very definition of a win-win situation,” said FASNY President Robert McConville.

Under FASNY HELP, any active volunteer firefighter, in good standing, and who hasn’t already achieved a college degree is eligible for up to 100-percent tuition reimbursement.

The reimbursement is in exchange for maintaining good grades and fulfilling service requirements in one of New York’s volunteer fire companies. There is no restriction on the type of academic courses that the HELP student-volunteer can pursue, either on a full-time or part-time basis. FASNY HELP also covers online courses taken through Empire State College.

FASNY HELP funds can be utilized for tuition costs incurred in the Fall 2015 and Spring 2016 semesters. Eligible student-volunteers must maintain acceptable levels of training and volunteer activity while attending school and fulfill a service requirement after they complete their course of study. They must attend a chartered NYS community college; Empire State College’s inclusion in the program has expanded students’ location options.

Due to a variety of factors, many volunteer fire departments are experiencing the need to recruit and retain more members. Tuition reimbursement can be an effective incentive for people to volunteer in their local community.

The deadline to apply for tuition reimbursement for the upcoming semester is October 2.

For more information on the FASNY HELP program, please visit www.fasny.com/help.

FDNY, NATIONAL FALLEN FIREFIGHTERS FOUNDATION INAUGURAL NATIONAL STAIR CLIMB National Fire Prevention Week in October will culminate with the National Stair Climb, an event honoring firefighters who have made the ultimate sacrifice. FDNY Fire Commissioner Daniel Nigro joined leaders from the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), United Technologies Corporation (UTC), Kidde Fire Safety, and loved ones of fallen firefighters to announce

the event at FDNY Firehouse Ladder 20 and Division 1 on Lafayette Street. Seven members of this station died on 9/11. Previous stair climbs have focused solely on the 343 members of the FDNY who perished on 9/11. The National Stair Climb, scheduled for October 10 at Citi Field, will expand the scope of this tradition to remember all of America's fallen firefighters, and is the first event of its kind to take place in New York City with the support of the FDNY. Participants will climb 2,200 steps in Citi Field, to symbolize the 110 stories of the World Trade Center Towers — the ascent that FDNY firefighters took on September 11, 2001 — and the ultimate sacrifice that 343 first responders made that day. It also is a journey of hope, raising funds to help programs for surviving family members of firefighters across the country.

Approximately 100 firefighters die in the line of duty each year in the U.S. The first 9/11 stair climb took place in Denver in 2005 when five Colorado firefighters gathered at a high-rise to climb 110 flights of stairs in memory of their 343 FDNY brothers. In 2010, they partnered with the NFFF to hold a series of climbs around the country. The National Stair Climb is open to the public and to all ages. Proceeds will benefit the FDNY Counseling Services Unit and the NFFF. Participants will receive a name badge honoring or in memory of the firefighter for whom they have chosen to climb and an event t-shirt.

Early registration is $35 until August 31. For more information and to register, visit www.nationalstairclimb.org.

Page 6, Fire News, September 2015

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Orangeburg Battles Housing Complex Fire On July 25, 2105, the Orangeburg Fire Department was alerted to an automatic alarm at the Cortwood Village Senior Housing complex. The chief arrived and reported heavy fire in the attic space, which was already through the roof. The first-in engine quickly placed a master stream deck gun into operation. The fire was held in check and contained to the original fire building, and helped maintain the integrity of the fire wall separating uninvolved apartments. Searches were quickly conducted as other tenants were moved away from the scene. Several area departments responded on mutual aid. Due to the humidity, a rehab area was established by local EMS agencies.

- Fire News photos by Kenny Flynn

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Fire News, September 2015, Page 7

2-Alarmer in Amherst

On July 11, 2015, a two-alarm fire broke out at Carmine’s ture. Three aerial ladders were used as well as several handlines Restaurant on Transit Road near Sheridan Drive in Amherst. Main- and blitz fires. The building was a total loss.

- Fire News photo by Bryan Sypniewski Transit, Harris Hill, East Amherst, Bowmansville and Clarence Center responded. The flames quickly engulfed the one-story struc-

Page 8, Fire News, September 2015

Yonkers 2-Alarmer

On July 9, 2015, Yonkers firefighters battled a two-alarm blaze in a row of stores on South Broadway. The major portion of the fire was confined to the rear of the building.

Several firefighters suffered minor injuries at the scene.

- Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

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Page 10, Fire News, September 2015

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All Hands Go to Work in Queens

Home Burns in Latham

FDNY companies in the Jamaica Hills section of Queens battled an all hands blaze on 168th Place on July 30, 2015. The fire was located on the third floor of a three-story, brick, private dwelling.

Temperatures in the 90s made the operation especially difficult.

- Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com

On June 28, 2015, the Latham Fire Department was called to a structure fire on Western Avenue. Latham, was assisted by West Albany, Shaker Road-Loudonville, Maplewood and Schuyler Heights with coverage from Boght. The attic area was ventilated and the fire extinguished. The newly sold home received smoke and water damage. All residents and their pets were evacuated with no injuries. One firefighter received a minor injury and was treated at the scene.

- Fire News photo by Lori Washburn

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Fire News, September 2015, Page 11

Apartment Fire in Guilderland

On June 18, 2015, units responded to a structure fire at the Woodlake Apartment Complex on Blessing Road in the Town of Guilderland. Upon arrival, firefighters found a heavy smoke condition with flames showing from an apartment in one building. The fire was contained to the one apartment, with smoke and water

damage to additional apartments. McKownville was assisted by Guilderland, North Bethlehem, Westmene, Fort Hunter and Fuller Road. Western Turnpike Rescue and Guilderland Police were on the scene, as well.

- Fire News photos by Tom Heffernan

Page 12, Fire News, September 2015

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Bridge Rescue in Selkirk

On July 14, 2015, the NY State Police requested the Selkirk Fire Department for assistance in rescuing an injured construction worker who had been knocked down on a platform hanging approximately 20-feet below the Castleton Bridge.

The worker was dragging a high-pressure hose over his shoulder when the line burst knocking him into a steel beam.

Selkirk was assisted by the Slingerlands Heavy Rescue, Town of Bethlehem EMS, Albany County Paramedics, and the Coeymans Fire Department.

- Fire News photos by Tom Heffernan

Page 14, Fire News, September 2015

Pet Saved in Queens Fire

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FDNY units were on the scene of a fire in a four-story, occupied, Firefighters found a family pet in the fire apartment and adminismultiple dwelling on 60th Place on the morning of July 31, 2015. tered oxygen to it .

- Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com The blaze went to all-hands and was contained to the second floor.

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On display at its 66 Superstores, serving New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and Northeast Philly, is the largest selection of televisions, home appliances, designer built-in appliances, personal electronics, and computers. Plus, P.C. Richard & Son has expanded its selection of merchandise and added several exciting new categories including mattresses, Apple products, home automation, newly expanded housewares department, health and fitness bands, and Sonos products.

All of P.C. Richard & Son’s employees are dedicated to providing superior service before, during and after the sale, and giving customers a wonderful and rewarding shopping experience.

It starts with friendly and knowledgeable salespeople, who explain all the features of today’s high-tech products, by providing next day delivery, as well as offering professional installation and a repair serv-

ice by company-owned crews.

Currently run by the fourth generation of the Richard family, P.C. Richard & Son is built on a 105-year tradition.

To receive your VIP Discount pricing, present an official employee ID to our Showroom Manager or Assistant Manager at any store location.

Contact Joe Morrone at Joe.Morrone@PCRichard.com or Todd Costello at Todd@PCRichard.com for more information.

FIREHOUSE EXPO GOING TO NASHVILLE IN 2016 Fire-Service Conference Will Have New Location after 32 Years in Baltimore Firehouse announced at July’s Firehouse Expo in Baltimore that its 2016 event will be held in Nashville, Tennessee. In addition to the change in location, Firehouse Expo will move to the fall, with October dates for 2016.

“It was not our original plan to be in Nashville in 2016,” said Ed Nichols, Vice President of Events, “however, circumstances required us to find a new location and Nashville made the most sense.”

Additionally, Nichols added, “The way the state has embraced the announcement and the support that has materialized so far has been impressive. This provides the platform for us to create something

unique for the fire service, both regionally and nationally, consistent with what Firehouse and the Firehouse Expo brand has come to be known for.”

Firehouse Expo will take place October 18-22, 2016, at the Music City Center in Nashville.

Firehouse World will take place January 31 to February 4, 2016, at the San Diego Convention Center in San Diego.

For more information regarding Firehouse Expo 2016, please contact Show Manager Brian Cassell at Brian.Cassell@ Firehouse.com.

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Cops ... Really?

At this past EMS/Fire Department Super Show, at Nassau Coliseum, I was approached by Firefighter Charles Ransonson of Bethpage. He asked me if I could do a show at the Nassau County Fire Department Barbecue contest, called “Can you handle the fire?”

The contest took place in front of Fairway Market, right outside of Mitchell Field in on Long Island. All proceeds from the contest went to the Nassau County Firefighter Museum, located at Mitchell Field.

When I arrived at the BBQ, Charles was the first one setting up. He brought his own trailer filled with all gadgets and doodads. There was one rule for the contest — you had to use chicken and ribs in your meal. Charles was smoking his meat and to say Charles is an expert on ribs, would be an understatement. Yet the ribs are not what wowed me with Charles’ recipe. It was his Bacon Explosion. This was one of his side dishes for the contest. It was a heart attack waiting to happen, but worth the risk!

Between the different recipes that Charles was making, I ventured out to meet with the men from the other departments. Syosset and Bethpage had a little bit of a rivalry. Firefighter Frank Visilli had a lot to say about Charles.

Charles had his trophies, from past contests, set up on his table. I asked if he was nervous that Bethpage might beat him. Frank replied with fireman’s wit, “I think it’s nice that he brought his bowling trophy and little league trophy, but he won’t be adding to that trophy table today.” Frank made a delicious pulled-pork sandwich out of his ribs, as well as a chicken gumbo. After I tasted his food, I said that Bethpage might be in trouble.

Other departments came from East Meadow, Malverne, Westbury and Oceanside to name but a few. The contestant I was most surprised to see were from the Nassau County Police Medics. This team was led by Mike Seltzer and Mark Pollack. Their ribs were good, but come on, they’re cops! They can’t win a fire department cook-off!

Yet, sure enough, when the judges read their verdict, the Nassau County Police Medics were victorious. In closing the show, standing with the police medics, I said nice and loud, “Really? The cops?” They were great ribs! Be sure to watch the new season of Firehouse Kitchen beginning in September 2015. Be sure to check you local listings for times and channels. To find out more about Firehouse Kitchen or how to become a sponsor, visit firehousekitchenshow.com.

Fire News, September 2015, Page 15

BACON EXPLOSION 16 Strips of raw bacon 8 Precooked Strips of bacon 4 Sweet pork sausages 2 Tablespoons of pork seasoning 1 Cup of shredded Cheddar cheese Lay eight strips of raw bacon one direction in a baking tin. Lay the remaining eight strips of raw bacon in another direction (a basket pattern). Slice open the sweet sausage and place the inside contents on top of the raw bacon. Add the pork seasoning. Then, lay the eight precooked bacon strips on top. Roll everything into a log shape. Cook in a smoker for three hours (check conversion time for conventional ovens).

Eat and enjoy!

Page 16, Fire News, September 2015

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Quick Job in Albany

Garage Fire in Stanford Hts.

On August 3, 2015, an alert Albany Police bike officer on routine patrol spotted black smoke coming from the roof of a three-story brownstone housing the Waldorf Tuxedo Company at the corner of Lark and Lancaster Streets. According to Batallion Chief Mike Burns, the fire was contained to the roof of the building due, in part, to the quick response of his men and equiptment.

-Fire News photo by Tom Heffernan

On August 1, 2015, the Stanford Heights Fire Department responded to a detached two-car garage fire. Upon arrival, the structure was fully involved. Midway, Colonie and Colonie EMS also responded.

- Fire News photo by Tammi Zimmerman

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Fire News, September 2015, Page 17

Building Collapse in Brooklyn FDNY units were on the scene after a four-story building on Fulton Street in the Bedford-Stuyvesant section of Brooklyn suddenly collapsed on July 14, 2015. The building was in the process of being demolished and officials were attempting to determine the cause of the pancake-type collapse. Three civilians were injured by flying debris, but none of the injuries were deemed serious.

- Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com and Lloyd Mitchell

Page 18, Fire News, September 2015

Washingtonville Vacant House Collapses

On July 23, 2015, Washingtonville firefighters were alerted for a reported house on fire in the area of Round Hill and Prospect Roads. Upon arrival of Car 1 (Skelly), a well advanced fire was found at a 2-1/2 story wood frame house. Tthe house was vacant and in a semi-secluded area and the fire had already consumed much of the structure. The main body of fire was knocked down in under 15 minutes.

-Fire News photo by Gary Hearn

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All-Hands in Queens

FDNY firefighters at an all-hands in Queens, recently. on McLaughlin Avenue. First-due companies were Engine 298, Tower Ladder 152 and Battalion 50 -Fire News photo by James McCarthy

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There’s a New Foam Unit in Town

On July 18 and 19, 2015, the Schuyler Heights Fire Company held a two-day Foam Tech Operational Course. Members of Latham, Menands, West Albany and West Crescent participated in the event, which introduced Schuyler Heights FRU-8. Designed and fabricated by Chief Jonathan Dudley and past-Chief Aaron Fandl, the Foam Response Unit was created in preparation for a catastrophic event involving a fire in one the many oil transportation cars that rail through the town. This new piece of equipment will enable Schuyler Heights to become an elite foam unit in the Town of Colonie. Jim Cottrell of Cottrell Associates Combat Support Products assisted in instruction and the training event.

- Fire News photo by Lori Washburn

Fire News, September 2015, Page 19

Up Close

Firefighters Jay Lopez and Carlos Jimenez in front of Engine 271’s new rig.

-Fire News photo by James McCarthy

Page 20, Fire News, September 2015

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Good-Will Handles MVA

Newburgh MVA

Recently, the Good-Will Fire Department was called out to a twocar MVA on D’Alafasono and Little Britain Roads in the Town of Newburgh. One person was taken to the hospital by Mobile Life.

- Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick

Recently, the Winona Lake Fire Department was called out to an MVA at Route 52 and Spring Suare in Newburgh. Two people were transported.

-Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick

East Greenbush Car Fire

Cyclist Down

On July 10, 2015, the East Greenbush Fire Department was dispatched for a fully involved car fire on Interstate 90. A vehicle westbound, in the center lane, ruptured an oil line on a high performance engine and ignited. The driver stayed with the car until he was able to run off the left lane and into a ditch. In the rear of the car was a 30-gallon tank of high-octane fuel with fire around it.

Responding units were able to knock down the fire, while one of their EMTs looked after the driver who was taken to the hospital, suffering burns to his body.

- Fire News photo by Martin E. Miller

On July 17, 2015, Nassau Ambulance and East Schodack Fire Company responded to Reno Road for a cyclist down; a medevac was requested. A seriously injured male was found in the road about 30 feet from the bike, after he had locked the brakes when a deer ran across the road in front of him on a turn. He was packaged, transported and transferred to a helicopter for the trip to the Albany Medical Center.

- Fire News photo by Martin E. Miller

Page 22, Fire News, September 2015

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Scenes from Hudson Valley Convention Recently, the Hudson Valley Volunteer Fire Association held its 126th annual convention and parades in Lake George. This annual event consists of over 125 fire departments from across the state appearing in both a dress parade and a Mardi Gras parade.

During the week firefighters are able to attend seminars and view new equipment from various vendors. The theme for this year’s Mardi Gras parade was “Beach Party,” which enabled participants to put on their beachwear — bikinis (for the guys!) — and saunter through the streets of Lake George handing out candy, hugs and kisses and laughs to all the bystanders. It was a hilarious and fun time for all. Saturday’s Dress Parade featured fire departments, apparatus and marching bands.

- Fire News photos by Lori Washburn and John C. Miller

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Fatality in DWI Head-On On July 27, 2015, the Rensselaer County 911 center received calls for a serious MVA on Route 20 at the intersection with Route 66 North. The Tsatsawassa Protective Fire Company responded and found a two-car head-on with serious injuries to the occupants of both cars. A preliminary investigation revealed one car was traveling east on Route 20 when the operator attempted to make a left turn onto Route 66, failing to yield the right of way to a car traveling west. One driver sustained several leg fractures and internal injuries. He was airlifted to Albany Medical Center Hospital. A rear seat passenger was pronounced deceased at scene. A front seat passenger was taken to Albany Medical Center Hospital with multiple traumatic injuries. The operator of the eastbound vehicle was taken to Albany Medical Center with a fractured spine and lacerations, and arraigned for DWI upon his release from the hospital.

Further charges were pending. The Tsatsawassa Fire Company was assisted by Tri Village and West Lebanon Fire Departments for traffic control. Three ambulances, one from Hoags Corners Ambulance and two from Nassau Ambulance, transported the injured to Albany Medical Center.

-Fire News photos by Tom Heffernan

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Good-Will FD’s Alfonso Crisci Alfonso A. Crisci passed away on July 30, 2015, at home. He was 91. Al was a graduate of Newburgh Free Academy and proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps during WWII, stationed in Tarawa and Saipan. While serving he received several medals and commendations, including the Purple Heart. Al was a parishioner of Sacred Heart Church, served as past-president and charter member of the GoodWill Fire Department and the Benevolent Association, and was a member of the Orange County Volunteer Fireman’s Association. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to Good-Will Fire Dept., 1 S. Plank Rd., Newburgh, NY 12550.

-Fire News photos by Vinnie Dominick

FIVE AUTO INSURANCE MYTHS Your Insurance Advisor, Hometown Insurance Agency

primary insurance, which means that the owner's insurance company must pay for damages caused by an accident. Policies The Insurance Research Council esti- and laws differ by state, and you should be mates that one driver out of every seven in familiar with these differences when allowthe United States is currently uninsured. ing another person to drive your car.

This is especially startling considering that an accident with an uninsured or underin- Myth 3 - Your credit has no effect on sured driver can result in significant costs your insurance rate that aren’t covered by a basic liability Your credit based insurance score does insurance policy. In the event of an auto accident, uninsured motorist (UM) cover- matter. An insurance score is a measure of age — also called uninsured motorist bod- how well you manage your financial ily injury (UMBI) insurance — will cover affairs, not your financial assets. Many you and your passengers for: Medical insurance companies take your insurance expenses; Pain and suffering; Lost wages. score into consideration when you want to Under this car insurance policy, you and purchase, change or renew your auto your passengers will also be covered if you insurance coverage. Because the majority are the victim of a hit-and-run accident. of people have good credit, and insurance Check your policy! Your uninsured motorist scores are derived from a person's credit coverage should match your bodily injury history, most people pay less for insurance liability coverage. NOTE: In some cases, a when insurance scores are entered into driver might have some liability insurance the pricing equation. but not enough to cover your injuries and/or damages. Underinsured motorist Myth 4 - Your insurance will cover you coverage can be used to offset the costs. if your car is stolen, vandalized, or damaged by falling tree limbs, hail, Myth 2 - If other people drive your car, flood or fire their auto insurance will cover them in Comprehensive and collision coverage the event of an accident are optional coverages. Lenders frequentIn most states, the auto insurance poli- ly require drivers to buy comprehensive cy covering the vehicle is considered the and collision coverage as a condition of a Myth 1 - Everyone has auto insurance because they have to have it

car loan agreement. Those driving older cars sometimes drop these coverages as a way of saving money. If a car is worth less than $1,000 or less than 10 times the insurance premium, purchasing the optional coverages may not be cost effective. But bear in mind that you need to purchase both collision and comprehensive coverage in order to fully protect your vehicle from all types of damage.

Myth 5 - It costs more to insure your car when you get older Quite the opposite! However the best way to keep your auto rates down is by having a good driving record. Drivers can qualify for a reduction in auto insurance rates, typically three years, if they have successfully completed an accident prevention course. Insurance companies will usually provide up to a 10 percent discount on car insurance.

For more information call Hometown Insurance at 1-800-568-SAVE (7283) or email: jtramuta@hometowninsurance.com.

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Fire News, September 2015, Page 25

Chatham Ventilation Drill

As part of its ongoing training, the Chatham Fire Department con- pikes and Halligans to simulate a live fire without putting the fireducted a ventilation drill in June using a roof simulator made by fighters in danger. The only negative was that the drill was conductdepartment members. One section contained asphalt shingles over ed at the local waste treatment plant.

- Fire News photos by David Levow OSB, while the other was covered with sheet metal roofing. Interior firefighters, supported by exterior firefighters, used various saws,

Page 26, Fire News, September 2015

Latham Lightning Fire

The power of Mother Nature was exhibited during an electrical storm that swept through Latham on July 19, 2015. Within moments of an extremely powerful electrical storm entering the area, an apartment complex in the Hudson Preserve was hit by lightning. As crews from Latham, Schuyler Heights, Colonie Village and Shaker Road-Loudonville responded to Beryl Way, the

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storm continued to pound the area with intense lightning, hail and torrential downpours. The apartment on the second floor of the building was completely engulfed when crews arrived. No one was injured and all occupants of the building were evacuated.

- Fire News photos by Lori Washburn

The Official Publication of NYS Drill Teams