Serving NEW YORK S TATE Serving Fire, Rescue
Volume 20, No. 5
W W W.FIRENE WS .COM
See story on page 41. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Fire,Serving Rescue The Magazine & EMS Fire, Rescue Serving & EMS Heroes &Fire, EMS Heroes Rescue Heroes Since Heroes 1973 Since 1996 &Since EMS 1973
September 2026
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Page 2, Fire News, September 2026
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Fire News, September 2026, Page 3
In this issue... Rochester 2-Alarm Building Fire Rochester firefighters responded to Burrows Street for the report of a fire. See story on page 6
Henrietta Snuffs Garage Fire Henrietta firefighters were dispatched for a report of a garage fire. See story on page 12
Outdoor Burn Spreads to House Schenectady firefighters from Engine 1 were dispatched to a rubbish fire in a backyard. See story on page 17
Serving Fire & EMS Heroes Since 1973 FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher/CEO TIM EDWARDS, Chief Operating Officer GARY P. JOYCE, Editor MYLES QUINN, Long Island Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production LYNN SEDLER, Art Director CLIFF CHIESA, Production Manager BARBARA CONNOLLY, Vice President National Sales SUZANNE BANCROFT, Business Development Manager BRYAN LOPEZ, Editorial Assistant GREGORY JONES, Graphic Artist DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor Emeritus 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
6 Displaced by Amsterdam House Fire Amsterdam Fire was dispatched to a structure fire. See story on page 20
Rochester 2-Alarm Henrietta St. House Fire Rochester firefighters were dispatched to Henrietta Street for multiple calls reporting a house on fire. See story on page 26
Coldenham Firehouse Destroyed in Fire Coldenham Fire Department received alarm from their firehouse, where crews found the firehouse in flames. See story on page 40
PLUS: Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pages 32, 34 Focus of the Month . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 36 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 39
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Put Your Kidney Where Your Heart Is Consider becoming a living kidney donor for a true hometown hero. After dedicating more than 20 years to the NYPD and over 40 years as a volunteer firefighter in his Long Island community, John ‘JJ’ Gillen now needs our help so he can continue doing what he loves — serving others. Today, JJ is in urgent need of a lifesaving kidney transplant, and a living donor is his best option. Throughout his career, JJ served with distinction in the NYPD’s Organized Crime Bureau before retiring as Commander of the Detective Squad in Corona, Queens. He also answered the call as a volunteer firefighter and EMT with the Wantagh Fire Department, where he rose through the ranks to become Chief and later Fire Commissioner. Even while battling advanced kidney disease, he continues to volunteer in an administrative role because serving his community is simply who he is. Born in Brooklyn and raised on Long Island, JJ learned the meaning of service at a young age while accompanying his father during his FDNY shifts. That commitment carried him through decades of public service, including assisting with the cleanup efforts at Ground Zero following the September 11attacks — both as an NYPD officer and as a volunteer firefighter. For more than 40 years, JJ has put others first. Now, he hopes for the chance to regain the strength to once again wear his gear, answer the alarm, and help those in need. About 12 years ago, JJ was diagnosed with diabetes. Over the past two years, his kidney function has steadily declined, and in the last several months it has worsened dramatically. He now needs a kidney transplant to save his life. JJ and his wife, Karen, have been married for 44 years. Together they’ve raised two daughters, who followed his example of service by becoming a teacher and a nurse. His family also includes two dedicated sons-in-law — one a volunteer firefighter and the other a Navy veteran with more than 23 years of service — and four grandchildren who absolutely adore their grandfather. Please consider becoming a hero for a man who has spent his entire life being one for others. If you’d like to help JJ, please share his story or contact the following organizations on his behalf. NYU Langone, 212-263-3621; NYUTRLivingdonor@nyulangone.org. Kidneys for Communities info@kidneysforcommunities.org Please also follow, like, and share our Instagram page and posts — sharing can save his life — @aheroneedsahero.
Page 6, Fire News, September 2026
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Rochester 2-Alarm Building Fire
On June 27, 2026, Rochester firefighters responded to Burrows heavy fire load showing through the roof. Multiple master streams Street for the report of a fire. First arriving units found a metal-clad and large lines were put into operation as crews worked rapidly to warehouse fully involved. Command quickly struck a second alarm protect exposure buildings. The fire was quickly knocked down. and moved companies into a defensive posture due to an extremely - Fire News photos by PuckStopperPhotography.com
Page 8, Fire News, September 2026
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Spring Valley Shed Fire with Extension
At 0700 hours on July 26, 2026, the Hillcrest Fire Department was alerted to a possible house fire on Michele Court in Spring Valley. Due to a language barrier on the initial 911 call, it was uncertain exactly what was on fire. While the first-due rig was responding, additional 911 calls reporting a fire were being received. Upon arrival, firefighters discovered a fully involved 10- x 20-foot wooden
shed fully involved, with the blaze threatening the house located within feet of the shed. One hoseline was stretched, making quick work of the fire. The shed was a total loss, while the home sustained heat damage to the vinyl siding and foam insulation. - Fire News photos by Kenny Flynn
Page 10, Fire News, September 2026
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Buffalo Tree Rescue
On July 27, 2026, a man who was trimming a tree in a Dakota Street dent. He was taken by AMR ambulance to Erie County Medical backyard had a medical emergency and became unresponsive. Center for treatment. Firefighters from Truck 7, EMS Car 20, and Buffalo firefighters from Truck 13 used three ground ladders to the 7th Battalion Chief assisted at the scene. support the man, tie him off and bring him down. The man - Fire News photo by Peter R. Barber regained consciousness and was helped to the ground without inci-
Page 12, Fire News, September 2026
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Rochester Garage Fire on Joseph Avenue
Henrietta Snuffs Garage Fire
On June 27, 2026, Rochester firefighters responded to Joseph Avenue for the report of a garage on fire. Units arrived to find a small fire smoldering on the side of a garage and were able to quickly knock down the fire. Crews worked to open up to make sure the fire did not extend. - Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com
On July 2, 2026, Henrietta firefighters were dispatched to Edmar Court for the report of a garage fire. On arrival, companies faced heavy fire coming from an attached garage and declared a working fire. Lines were stretched and the fire was quickly knocked down, stopping the fire from extending to the home. - Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com
Page 14, Fire News, September 2026
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Howard Beach 2-Story Fire
FDNY Engine Company 331 and Ladder 173 responded to a fire in story building. Units used two hoselines to knock down the main a private dwelling on 84th Street in Howard Beach on July 9, 2026. body of fire. The fire left two residents and a cat with non-lifeThey transmitted a 10-75 for heavy fire out the first floor of a two- threatening injuries. - Fire News photo by Lloyd Mitchell
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Semi-Truck Fire on I-90 in Scottsville
On July 2, 2026, Scottsville firefighters, along with mutual aid, semi-truck with a fully involved cab with extension to the trailer. responded to Interstate 90 westbound for the report of a truck fire. Crews stretched lines and worked with additional responding units As crews responded, calls flooded in giving firefighters a better pic- getting water on the fire and quickly knocking down the blaze. ture of what they were going into. On arrival companies found a - Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com
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Fire News, September 2026, Page 17
Outdoor Burn Spreads to House
On July 20, 2026, Schenectady firefighters from Engine 1 were dispatched to a rubbish fire in a backyard on Emmett Street in the Hamilton Hill neighborhood of Schenectady. On arrival the crew realized the fire had spread to the nearby residence and had gotten into the walls of the three-story wood frame structure. Two alarms
were sounded as the fire spread quickly into the third-floor crawl space. The fire was brought under control in less than an hour. A firefighter suffered a minor concussion during operations and was transported to an area hospital for treatment. - Fire News photos by Peter R. Barger
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Vacant Building Fire in Brooklyn
FDNY Engine Company 255 and Tower Ladder 157 transmitted a 10-75 for fire in a vacant building on Nostrand Avenue in Brooklyn on July 18, 2026. The 41st Battalion transmitted a second alarm as fire was in the basement and first floor. The decision was made to remove all members from the building and go defensive. - Fire News photo by Lloyd Mitchell
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Fire News, September 2026, Page 19
Manhattan Transformer Fire FDNY Units responded to Manhattan Box 706, for a transformer fire at Penn Plaza on West 33rd Street on July 19, 2026. - Fire News photos by Gary Hearn
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6 Displaced by Amsterdam House Fire
Amsterdam Fire was dispatched to a structure fire on August 1, 2026, at 1228 hours. Units arrived to heavy smoke and fire on the first floor extending to the attic. One firefighter was transported for evaluation, two of six pets were rescued, and five adults and a child were displaced. The fire was under investigation. - Fire News photo by Mark Perfetti
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Fire News, September 2026, Page 21
Heavy Clutter Hampers Firefight in Maspeth
A private dwelling fire in Maspeth, Queens, kept FDNY units busy on July 5, 2026. A heavy clutter condition hampered fire operations and required the transmission of a second alarm. There were no serious injuries reported. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Page 22, Fire News, September 2026
Columbian Hose Donates $100,000 to FASNY FFs Home
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FASNY ‘Bob Darling’ Picnic
Current and past FASNY Firefighters Home Trustees and FASNY residents gathered at the home on July 17, 2026, enjoying time together during the annual Bob Darling Picnic. - Submitted by Vincent Ammirati
Members of the Columbian Hose Company Number 1 of the Peekskill Fire Department in Westchester County, presented a $100,000 donation to the FASNY Firefighters Home on July 19, 2026. The donation was accepted by Home Administrator Tara Degan and Home Trustee Vice President Anthony DeMarco. - Submitted by Fire News contributor/Home Trustee Vinny Ammirati
Rockland/Westchester Day at FASNY Home in Hudson
Home Resident Council officers, members, and current and former trustees gathered with staff for a group photo during Rockland/Westchester County Day at the FASNY Firefighters Home in Hudson, on July 19, 2026. - Photo by Fire News contributor Trustee Vinny Ammirati
Page 24, Fire News, September 2026
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Glenham Summer Junior Fire Academy
On July 25, 2026, the Glenham Fire Department held their 4th annual Junior Firefighter summer Fire Academy with 49 students in attendance. They held two sessions; one at 0800 to 1130 hours for rising third to sixth graders and session two from 1100 to 1430 hours for rising seventh to tenth graders. The session was held from July 20 to 25, 2026, with their graduation ceremony on July 25. This event would never have happened if they didn’t have people like ex-
Chief Bob Dross and Firefighter Kayleigh Marron and the many volunteers who helped from the Glenham Fire Department, Pleasant Valley Fire Department, Arlington Fire Department, Fairview Fire Department and BVAC. The Glenham Fire Department is looking for all to return next year for another year of learning. - Fire News photo submitted by Vinny Galvin, DCVFA
Page 26, Fire News, September 2026
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Rochester 2-Alarm House Fire on Henrietta St.
On July 12, 2026, Rochester firefighters were dispatched to Henrietta Street for multiple calls reporting a house on fire. Units arrived on scene within minutes to find a fire in the rear running up multiple floors of a two-story wood frame dwelling and declared a working fire. As crews stretched lines to prepare for an interior
attack, command struck a second alarm bringing in additional manpower. Crews made an aggressive attack knocking down fire on multiple floors while protecting the exposure homes. The main body was knocked down in less than 20 minutes. - Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com
Page 28, Fire News, September 2026
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Rochester House Fire on Bartlett St.
In the early morning hours of July 5, 2026, Rochester firefighters stretched and fire was quickly knocked down as crews entered the were dispatched to Bartlett Street for the report of a fire in the area. home to check for extension. On arrival, companies found a fire running up the back of the home - Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com and threatening to extend to a second dwelling. Lines were
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Fire News, September 2026, Page 29
CNYFA Ladies Auxiliary
The Central New York Firefighters Association (CNYFA) Ladies Auxiliary at the annual convention on July 11, 2026. - Fire News photo by Jim Lepard
ATTENTION
CHIEFS CHAPLAIN In GOOD times and BAD Whether your department realizes it or not you need a
FIRE/EMS
For information on the importance of having a Chaplain in your Fire Department contact 1st Deputy Chief Chaplain Stephen Muhlenbruck at 631-806-7292.
Page 30, Fire News, September 2026
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2-Alarmer in Queens FDNY Engine Company 301 and Ladder Company 150 transmitted 2026. Units used five hoselines to knock down the main body of fire a 10-75 for fire on the second floor and attic space of a three-story which went to a second alarm assignment. mixed occupancy building on Hollis Avenue in Queens on July 17, - Fire News photo by Lloyd Mitchell
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Fire News, September 2026, Page 31
Operation At Ease 8th Awareness Run
On July 25, 2026, Operation At Ease held its 8th Annual PTS Awareness Run. Over 100 riders including Red Knights, Colonie Police, Cohoes Police, State Police, Rensselaer County Police, and various motorcycle clubs participated in the event that raised over $16,000 dollars. Midway Fire Department hung Old Glory over the route of the motorcycles. Operation At Ease is a local organization that is dedicated to assisting veterans and first responders (aiding many firefighters in the area) with service dogs that they rescue from local shelters. They help to train both the handler and the dog for the needs of the handler. This is a great organization that not only helps humans but also saves the lives of dogs and gives them purpose. - Submitted by Lori Washburn; Photos by Truck
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Training
Sometimes Training Can Get Very Real!
On July 27, 2026, the West Crescent Fire Department helped to direct a multi-county water rescue drill along the Mohawk River. Departments from Albany, Schenectady and Saratoga counties decended on the Mohawk with ambulances, rescue vehicles, ATVs and rescue boats. West Crescent, Boght, Burnt Hills, Niskayuna 2, Halfmoon, Halfmoon-Waterford and Clifton Park EMS participated in the event. While transferring victims (mock) between the river rescue area to the triage portion an ATV driver was stung after running over a bees nest, resulting in him being triaged by EMS and transported for treatment. The teams rescued over 15 victims (live and mannequins) from the water area. - Submitted by Lori Washburn; Photos by Truck
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Fire News, September 2026, Page 33
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Page 34, Fire News, September 2026
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Training
Master Stream Training in Buffalo
On July 27, 2026, Buffalo firefighters from Engine 1 and Truck 2 operation over the Buffalo Harbor with the skyline predominantly headed to the Erie Basin Marina for master stream training. Two in the background. - Fire News photos by Peter R. Barber handlines and a five-inch supply line feeding Truck 2 were put into
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Fire News, September 2026, Page 35
Rochester New Truck 5
Rochester Fire Department’s new Truck 5 in service and during a house fire on Bartlett Street. Truck 5 is an E-One Typhoon 110-foot Aerial. - Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com
Page 36, Fire News, September 2026
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Dutchess County Firefighter 1 Class Graduation
Twenty firefighters from Dutchess County have successfully completed the Firefighter I class at the New Hackensack Training Facility. The graduates dedicated many nights and weekends to their training, spending time away from their families to reach this important milestone. The Dutchess County Volunteer Firefighters Association celebrated the achievements of the graduates by pro-
viding refreshments. Each new firefighter received a Nomex hood, a commemorative patch, and a certificate from the association in recognition of their accomplishment. The dedication and guidance of the instructors played a significant role in supporting these new firefighters throughout their training. - Submitted by Vincent Galvin, DCVFA Financial Secretary
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Fire News, September 2026, Page 37
New Ambulance for Amsterdam
Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara announced state funding he secured for the City of Amsterdam to purchase a new ambulance needed for the fire department. He joined Mayor Michael Cinquanti, Chief Agresta, Amsterdam firefighters, EMS personnel, and city officials to deliver the new ambulance and celebrate its
arrival. This investment will help strengthen emergency response, give the city’s first responders the equipment they need, and help ensure residents continue to receive high-quality emergency medical care. - Fire News photos by Mark Perfetti
Page 38, Fire News, September 2026
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Operation At Ease 8th Awareness Run
On July 25, 2026, Operation At Ease held its 8th Annual PTS Awareness Run. Over 100 riders including Red Knights, Colonie Police, Cohoes Police, State Police, Rensselaer County Police, and various motorcycle clubs participated in the event which raised over $16,000 dollars. Midway Fire Department hung Old Glory over the route of the motorcycles. Operation At Ease is a local
organization that is dedicated to assisting veterans and first responders (aiding many firefighters in the area) with service dogs that they rescue from local shelters. They help to train both the handler and the dog for the needs of the handler. This is a great organization that not only helps humans but also saves the lives of dogs and gives them purpose. - Submitted by Lori Washburn; Photos by Truck
FireNews.com
Fire News, September 2026, Page 39
FINANCIAL FITNESS FOR FIREFIGHTERS You Speak, We’re Listening: Finances Are Crucial To Your Health And Wellness By Ryan Fields-Spack – Associate Director, Responder Wellness, FirstNet®, Built with AT&T Imagine you’ve just been relieved from another grueling firehouse shift. Eighteen calls in 24 hours and almost no sleep. Driving home, your mind drifts from the controlled chaos of the engine to the stack of bills waiting for you. Mortgage payments, student loans, credit card debt—the financial worries that refuse to take a backseat despite the lifesaving work you do. In my 25 years of experience in emergency response, including 7 years with the FirstNet Response Operations Group™ (ROG), I’ve seen firsthand how financial stress can impact the mental health and overall well-being of first responders. And in your responses to the 2026 “What Firefighters Want” survey, you were loud and clear: Firefighters want help with financial well-being. Why Financial Wellness Matters Financial stability is important to a good quality of life. But many firefighters face a unique challenge: the pride and satisfaction of doing their dream job can quickly give way to the realities of the work. In the past, we were expected to figure it out on our own. Things have changed now, and we know that by addressing these financial stressors, you can improve your mental health, job performance, and overall quality of life. As a result, FirstNet has partnered with Ramsey SmartDollar to pilot financial wellness programs specifically tailored to first responders. Created by Dave Ramsey, widely regarded as a financial literacy pioneer, these programs enable fire districts to provide practical tools and resources to help firefighters manage finances, reduce debt, and build a secure financial future. Key Components of Financial Wellness Financial wellness boils down to a few core practices:
1. Creating a budget: It may not be easy or fun, but creating a budget provides a sense of accomplishment and control. 2. Eliminating debt: Getting and staying debt-free is central to true financial wellness. 3. Building an emergency fund: Handling life’s surprises without panic requires a cash cushion. 4. Investing for the future: Build a clear path toward retirement and long-term goals. 5. Changing behavior: Knowing what to do isn’t the problem — doing it is. Real wellness starts with changing money habits. The SmartDollar program guides you step-by-step through each of these to financial stability. You’ll learn how to stick to a budget, get out of debt, save for the future, and build wealth. When it comes to dealing with emergencies, firefighters love a good standard operating procedure. Well, this plan is for you, for transforming your own—and your family’s—futures. FirstNet understands that your job is more than just a profession— it’s a calling. And while we’re known for providing reliable communication during emergencies, we also care deeply about your overall well-being. Taking care of your financial health is just as important as helping to make sure you have the connectivity you need when and where it matters most. Take control of your financial future and learn more about the SmartDollar program.
2ND ANNUAL 9/11 MEMORIAL STAIR CLIMB AT MET LIFE STADIUM IN HONOR OF THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF 9/11 TO RAISE FUNDS FOR NATIONAL FALLEN FIREFIGHTERS FOUNDATION SEPTEMBER 12, 2026 Join us on Saturday, September 12 at MetLife Stadium as we come together for the 2nd annual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb as we honor the 25th Anniversary of 9/11 and fund the programs provided by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation to support the families of the 343 fallen firefighters and the FDNY Counseling Service Unit. Registration opened July 15, 2026.
Keep up with our social media pages and future email blasts for registration link. ALL raised funds will go to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. To learn more about their mission, visit firehero.org. For any questions or to inquire about volunteering and sponsorships, please email nj911climb@fss.com
2027 NOVFA REGIONAL FIRE SCHOOL MARCH 20-21, 2027 The Northwest Ohio Volunteer Firemen’s Association (NOVFA) provides quality training to first responders from across the Midwest. Through realistic Hands-on-Training (HOT), Seminars, and Officers Development programs, our goal is to equip first responders with life-saving tactics, tools for operational needs, and survival skills. To accomplish this, NOVFA brings together leaders in Fire/EMS training and education who pass on their knowledge while celebrating the traditions of the service. Our 2026 Regional Fire School was a great success, with over 750 attendees issued more than 1,000 CE
credits, and over 40 vendors on campus. The 2027 Regional Fire School is scheduled for Saturday, March 20, and Sunday, March 21, 2027 at the Penta Career Center in Perrysburg, Ohio. This year, NOVFA is again collaborating with the Northwest Ohio HazMAT Conference and the Ohio Youth Fire and EMS Training Academy to provide specialized training. For more information, please visit the Fire School website at https://www.novfafireschool.org/ or follow us on Facebook.
Page 40, Fire News, September 2026
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Coldenham Fire House Destroyed in Fire
On the morning of July 2, 2026, Coldenham Fire Department received automatic alarm at their firehouse, where first responders found the firehouse in flames. A second alarm was transmitted and firefighters managed to get the apparatus out of firehouse. Area fire departments arrived and extinguished the fire. Coldenham Road was completely filled with fire apparatus and area EMS that staged. One tanker was destroyed by the fire. Orange County Fire Coordinator and deputies along with Orange County Fire Investigators were on scene. The fire was under investigation. Five firefighters were transported to area hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries. The firehouse was completely destroyed. - Fire News photos by Robert McCormick and Gary Hearn
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Fire News, September 2026, Page 41
Cover Story
1 Dead, 20 FFs & EMS Injured in Queens Blaze FDNY companies from throughout the city battled a stubborn, five-alarm blaze on 41st Road in the Flushing section of Queens on July 25, 2026. Units were met by heavy fire conditions on arrival and immediately went to work to knock down the blaze. The fire building was a two-story, wood-framed row house type structure. Master streams and tower ladders were put into operation to stop the advance of fire. At least one civilian was killed in the blaze with more than seventeen others injured including several firefighters. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com and Gary Hearn
Page 42, Fire News, September 2026
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Tribute
Rochester’s John Joseph
On July 15, 2026, the Rochester Fire Department held a funeral for Lt John ‘JJ’ Joseph from Engine 5 after he passed away from jobrelated cancer. ‘JJ,’ as he was known around the department was with RFD for 18 years serving the City of Rochester. John also served as the secretary for Local 1071 Rochester Professional Firefighters. He was known to all who knew him as a loving, caring, dedicated, and hard-working person who could be leaned on when times were hard or needed direction. He will be deeply missed. From Local 1071 “JJ was the definition of selfless service. Over the past year he quietly and courageously battled cancer, yet he continued to show up for his brothers and sisters whenever he could.” - Fire News photos by PuckStopperPhotography.com