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JANUARY, 2025
5-YEAR-OLD HERO ALERTS E TO NEIGHBOR’S HOUSE FIRE IN HEMSTREET PARK
Jg g p p ? JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER/ SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY HEMSTREET PARK, NY - On October 26th at 2:39 A.M., a five-year-old child named Bennett Bashford, who has autism, woke up to the glow of the neighbor's house on fire. He made his way to his father, who was sound asleep on the family couch in their living room, and told him, “There’s a fire daddy, hurry look a fire, it is dangerous.” Zack, Bennett’s father, jumped up from the couch and immediately called 911. -
u p p ly C o m p a n y
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PAGE 2
January, 2025
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
JEFFREY ARN0LD/@ FIREPH0T025
Vacant House Fire in W illard WILLARD, NY - On Friday, November 22nd at 12:39 p.m., fire departments from Ovid, Romulus, Varrick, Interlaken, Lodi and Fayette (FAST) responded to a fire in a vacant dwelling at 4545 Route 132 (Main Street) in Willard. The first arriving unit from South Seneca Ambulance confirmed a working fire. After a search was conducted and utilities could be secured by NYSEG, firefighters took a defensive posture, and heavy equipment was brought in from the Seneca County Highway Department to perform an emergency demolition of the struc ture. There were no injuries reported. The cause of the blaze remains under investigation.
ROR MCCORMICK
Car Vs. B icycle w ith Injuries on Route 17K in Newburgh NEWBURGH, NY - Town of Newburgh police officers are in vestigating a vehicle vs. bicycle accident that occurred on State Route 17K, in front of Stony Brook, on November 19th. Town of Newburgh Police requested an EMS Medevac to be placed on stand by. Town of Newburgh EMS transported the bicyclist to Montefiore-St. Luke's Hospital. Good Will FD as sisted at the scene with traffic control and had a light tower in place. New York State Police also assisted at the scene. The Town of Newburgh Police Dept, is investigating the cause.
JEFFREY RELSCHWINDER/ SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY
Troy Firefighters switching out air bottles after working on the 2nd floor.
Passerby Calls in 3rd Avenue House Fire in Troy TROY, NY - On November 9th at 9:56 P.M., the Rensselaer County Emergency Communica tion Center transmitted the alarm of fire for 517 3rd Avenue. The caller reported that they drove by and saw the second or third floor on fire. Engine 1, Truck 1, Engine 4, Engine 2, Medic 4, Truck 2, the res cue squad, and the battalion chief re sponded to the scene. As they were en route, the dispatcher no tified them that they were taking a first party call from the resident inside of the house and were ad vising them to evacuate the build ing. Engine 1 and Truck 1, being only around the comer, arrived on scene and had a three-story brick apartment building with nothing showing from the exterior. Fire fighters made their way inside of the structure and notified the dis patcher that they had a working structure fire and transmitted the Signal 30. Firefighters connected to the nearby hydrant and charged the hydrant for Engine 1 so they could have an adequate water sup ply. Firefighters on Truck 1 made their way to the roof and began to check the roof area. Firefighters inside of the structure made their way to the third-floor and began to check the attic area for any type of extension. Another group of firefighters made their way down to the basement and notified com mand that they had nothing there, or on the first-floor. Firefighters notified command that the fire
was contained in between the floors between the second and third floor, and there was no extension outside of that. Firefighters utilized a hand line to knock down the fire and began to pull apart the ceilings to make sure that there was no further fire spread. Within 15 minutes, fire fighters had the entire incident under control. Firefighters contin ued to overhaul the second-floor area for an extended period of time.
Due to the rapid response of station one with both the engine and truck company in service at the time of the call, firefighters were able to handle this fire efficiently and quickly. Fire investigators arrived on scene and began to conduct their investigation into what caused the fire. No injuries were reported, and firefighters went back into service later that evening.
- JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER
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January, 2025
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
ADVERTISER INDEX
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BROTHERS & SISTERS OF THE EMERGENCY SERVICES If you have photos you would like to see in our “Brothers & Sisters o f the Emergency Services” feature, please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey @ 1stResponderNews. com.
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Cheektowaga's Doyle Hose No. 1 partnered with Buffalo Profes sional Firefighters Local 282 and KIA Memorial Supporters yearly bear drive. Approximately 500 Teddy Bears will be distributed to sick children in local hospitals this holiday season.
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F ire m a tic S u p p ly C o .
A woman was killed after her car crashed into a house in Selkirk after being struck by another car.
One Dead A fter Two-Car Crash, One Car Into a House in Selkirk
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CORPORATE INFORMATION 1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New York edition - Vol. 26 No. 1 - is published monthly, 12 times a year for $48 per year by Belsito Communications, Inc., 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. Pe riodicals Postage Paid at Newburgh, NY and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. No financial responsibility is assumed by mm/L^sLjammUU U ( i M this newspaper communications, me. to publish a display, classified, or legal ad or for typographical errors except o f reprinting that part o f the ad which was omit ted or in error. Omissions or errors must be brought to the attention o f the newspaper during the same month of publication. Printed in Canada.
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SELKIRK, NY - Alocal woman was killed following a severe motor vehicle collision in Selkirk that caused one car to crash into a house. First responders were called to 1463 River Rd in Selkirk around 5:20 p.m. on Monday, August 19th, for a two-car MVA with one car re ported to be on fire, one car into a house and one of the drivers re ported to be having a seizure, and another driver. Chief Tom Neri of the Selkirk Fire Department arrived on scene with an officer of the Bethlehem Po lice Department and determined no cars were on fire. One vehicle, a Mustang with two occupants, was checked on by the police officer. The second vehi cle, the car into the house with the driver not breathing, was investi gated by Chief Neri. Neri says the passenger of the Mustang got out on their own, and the driver of the Mustang was re moved by the police officer, as the driver was actively having a seizure. Neri was at the car that crashed into the house and says a doctor was driving by the accident when it oc curred and said the driver was not breathing, but he felt a slight pulse. “She was pinned and the front left comer of her vehicle was into the house,” Neri said. “I had the doc tor come out and check for a pulse again because I didn't feel a pulse.” Upon the arrival of Selkirk Fire’s heavy rescue truck, firefight ers were ordered to remove the dri ver's door and the roof of the car within minutes. “They [the firefighters] started that and I started chest compressions on her in the car,” Neri said. “That isn’t the best way to do it because I had no backboard behind her, but I was trying.” After beginning compressions, Neri said it was apparent the driver had a broken neck and he discontin ued chest compressions after the paramedic confirmed the driver was deceased. Firefighters then assisted EMS with lifting the other driver, who was still actively experiencing a seizure, onto the stretcher and into the ambulance.
TO f ile #102824116
a 1% “The preliminary investigation shows that a car driven by Jacklyn M. Parker, age 24 of Troy, NY, was traveling northbound on River Road when her vehicle crossed over the double yellow center lines, crashing into a vehicle that was traveling southbound,” according to a state ment from Bethlehem Police. “The driver of the southbound vehicle was identified as Colleen M. Selkirk, age 60 of Flannacroix, NY, and she was pronounced dead at the scene,” Police said. “Parker, along with her passenger, were transported to Albany Medical Center with nonlife-threatening injuries.” Chief Neri says the car that crashed into the house caused six concrete blocks to be knocked out of the foundation. Neri said the Mustang was an electric vehicle and crews were able to locate the emergency shutoff to de-energize the battery. Police say Parker was arrested and charged with Operating a Motor Vehicle While Ability Impaired by Drugs. Parker was released and given a return date for September 3 at the Town of Bethlehem Court. River Road was closed from Maple Avenue to Fox Street in Coeymans for approximately nine hours while the investigation was ongoing. Coeymans Police was notified to advise the Port of Coeymans not to send any tmek traffic northbound on River Road. The crash is still under investi gation by the Bethlehem Police De partment and the Albany County Crash Investigation Team. Selkirk Fire, Delmar-Bethlehem EMS, Albany County Paramedics, Bethlehem Police and Albany County Sheriff’s responded to the scene, with the assistance of Coey mans Police for road closures. Police could not be reached when asked about an update on any additional charges as of this report.
- THOMAS MARRA
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If you have photos you would like to see in our “Action Shot” feature, please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com.
CHRIS HEAR
On October 31st„ the Hillcrest Fire Company responded to a re ported fuel leak at 91 Buckingham Court in Pomona. Upon arrival, it was determined that the driver was pinned under the rear wheels of the fuel truck. No other calls were received on this sit uation. The driver was successfully extricated and transported to Westchester Medical Center.
I81- Responder Newspaper - MY_____________ January, 2025 /
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January, 2025
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
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In memory of those who gave all 1st Responder Newspaper honors and remembers emergency responders lost in the line of duty
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EDITORIAL STAFF COLUMNISTS Rick Billings (Cartoon) Bob Long (Cartoon) John Malecky (Apparatus, Bookshelf) Didymus McHugh (Chaplain's Corner) Fernando Villicana (Chaplain's Corner)
CORRESPONDENTS Jeffrey Arnold • John Bechtold • Jeffrey Belschwinder • Brian Berkey • David Bums • Mike Carey • Michael Contaxis • Jeff Crianza • Russell Cur ley • Vinnie Dominick • Patrick D’Onofrio • Bob Faugh • Bradley Fowler •
Missouri: James "Jim" Cova, 54 Rank: Captain Incident Date: July 9, 2024 Death Date: July 9, 2024 Fire Department: Affton Fire Protection District Initial Summary: On Tuesday July 9, 2024, Captain James "Jim” Cova was found unresponsive at the fire house after responding to several emergency responses during his shift. Firefighters immediately performed CPR and he was then transported to the local hospital where he was pronounced deceased. The cause o f death has yet to be determined.
John Greco • Paul Harrington • Gary Heam • Ron Jeffers • Lany Kensinger • Bob Krajicek • Connor Krueger • Jeff Levine • Stan De Long • Chuck Lowe • Tom Mlarra • Bob McCormick • Randy Montour • Tricia Mlood • William Mlurray • Mlark Picemo • Charlie Piper • David Ragusa • John Rieth • Frank Robinson • Bob Root • Chris Sabella • Michael Serrell • Sharon Siegel • John Smith • Ken Snyder • John Spaulding • Bill Tompkins • Chris Tompkins • Bob Vaccaro • Gary Vanvoorhis • Frankie Verderame • Stephen Wallace • John Walthers • Eugene Weber Jr • Steve White • Guy Zampatori Jr
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ EDITORIAL INFORMATION_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Join our team o f correspondents or columnists! 1st Responder Newspaper welcomes submissions by our readers. Send stories and photos to us at 1 Ard more St. New Windsor, NY 12553. Or, give us a call or send us an e-mail. If using the mail, please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for all sub missions you wish to have returned. Publisher reserves the right to refuse any editorial or advertising material submitted.
845-534-7500 ext. 212 • (fax) 845-534-0055 News@1 stR esponderN ew s.com
Oregon: Daniel Foley, 27 Rank: Wildland Firefighter Incident Date: July 9, 2024 Death Date: July 9, 2024 Fire Department: U.S. Forest Service, Fremont-
Initial Summary: On Wednesday, May 24, 1995, Firefighter Rodrick Shane Lambert was paralyzed when the fire engine in which he was riding over turned. Since that time, he has been in a wheelchair. He passed away on Saturday, August 10, 2024, from medical complications from the accident. One other firefighter, Ronald Deer, was killed in the incident; two others received minor injuries. Firefighter Lam bert and Firefighter Deer were in the back o f the en gine and were not wearing seatbelts when the accident occurred. The raised roof o f the engine sepa rated from the cab when it overturned, and they were thrown from the engine. The engine was responding on a box alarm which turned out to be a false alarm.
Winema National Forest Initial Summary: On Tuesday, July 9, 2024, Wildland Firefighter Daniel Foley collapsed after the completion
Massachusetts: Matthew Edward Forand, 45 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: August 14, 2024 Death Date: August 15, 2024 Fire Department: New Bedford Fire Department Initial Summary: On Wednesday, August 14, 2024,
o f a District Work Capacity Test. He was immediately transported to the Sky Lakes Medical Center where he was pronounced deceased. The cause o f death has yet to be determined.
Firefighter Matthew Edward Forand was on duty at the fire station when he suffered a medical emergency and passed away during the night. The cause o f his death has yet to be determined.
Kansas: Ty Voth, 27 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: August 1, 2024 Death Date: August 1, 2024 Fire Department: Wichita Fire Department Initial Summary: On Thursday, August 1, 2024, Fire
Pennsylvania: Brian Peek, 67 Rank: Fire Police Officer Incident Date: August 16, 2024 Death Date: August 16, 2024 Fire Department: Goldsboro Fire Company Initial Summary: On Friday, August 16, 2024, Fire Po
fighter Ty Voth, while at the scene o f a house fire, col lapsed. He was immediately taken to the local hospital where he passed away. The cause o f his death has yet to be determined.
hicle crash when he was shuck by an automobile. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.
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Indiana: Rodrick Shane Lambert, 52 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: May 24, 1995 Death Date: August 10, 2024 Fire Department: Wayne Township Fire Department
lice Officer Brian Peek was directing traffic during a ve
January, 2025
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
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PROVIDED
Greenport Rescue Squad, Inc. Expands Life-Saving Capabilities with Investment in Cutting-Edge Ventilators Hudson, NY — 11/12/2024 — Greenport Rescue Squad, Inc. is proud to announce the introduction of four state-of-the-art Hamilton Ventilators to be carried on board its ambulances. These advanced ventilators, valued at approxi mately $20,000 each, will be uti lized on both 911 emergency calls and interfacility transport, enhanc ing the organization's ability to provide the highest standard of care to patients in critical need. The Hamilton Ventilators are among the most sophisticated me chanical ventilators in the nation, offering advanced features and ca pabilities that align with the rapid advancements in Emergency Med ical Services (EMS). With a 5-year financing plan in place, Greenport Rescue Squad continues to demon strate its commitment to investing in the latest medical technology to support both its exceptional med ical providers and the communities they serve. The Board of Directors recently approved this significant investment to ensure the continued advancement of the organization's capabilities. “Greenport Rescue Squad has always been dedicated to ensuring that our patients receive the best possible care, which includes equipping our ambulances with the most modern, reliable, and effec tive equipment available,” said Aidan O'Connor, Executive Direc tor of Greenport Rescue Squad, Inc. “As EMS technology contin ues to evolve, we are proud to stay ahead of the curve and provide our highly skilled team with the tools they need to succeed in this rapidly changing environment. The addi tion of these ventilators is just one example of our ongoing commit ment to excellence in patient care.” The Hamilton Ventilators will enhance Greenport Rescue Squad’s ability to manage critical respira tory needs for patients during
JEFFREY RELSCHWINDER/SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY
Troy Firefighters with the children from the fire poster contest.
Troy Fire Department Helps w ith Fire Safety * 1 » Poster Contest for Griswold Heights Youth transport, providing advanced ven TO FILE #111524-113
tilation modes that are customiz able based on patient condition. This new equipment will further reinforce Greenport Rescue Squad’s reputation as a leader in emergency medical response, as they continue to offer the best care possible during some of the most critical moments in people’s lives. “Our providers are among the most dedicated and skilled in the profession, and with the addition of these cutting-edge ventilators, we are further empowering them to deliver exceptional care,” O'Con nor added. “The safety and well being of our patients is our top priority, and with these new venti lators, we are ensuring we remain equipped to meet their needs.” With these new advancements, Greenport Rescue Squad, Inc. re mains at the forefront of EMS care, continuously evolving to provide the highest levels of service to the communities it serves. About Greenport Rescue Squad, Inc. Greenport Rescue Squad was founded in 1936 as a non-profit community service organization and is a leading provider of emer gency medical services providing Paramedic level services in Hud son, NY and surrounding areas. We are committed to delivering excep tional care to the community with our team of dedicated EMTs and Paramedics who are available 24/7, ensuring rapid and professional re sponse to all EMS requests for help. For more information, please visit www.GreenportRescue.org or find us on Facebook at Greenport Rescue Squad.
- AIDAN O’CONNOR
TROY, NY - In October, mem bers of the City of Troy Fire De partment gathered at the Troy Housing Authority building in Gris wold Heights to honor young par ticipants of the annual Fire Safety Poster Contest. The event, which attracted a large turnout of children from the Griswold Heights Apart ments, celebrated their efforts to raise awareness about fire safety through creative poster designs. During the award ceremony, each participant received a certifi cate of recognition, with several children earning special prizes for outstanding posters across different
Jump to f iie #103124100 *6
3S
age groups. The winning designs highlighted the children’s unique artistic takes on essential fire safety messages, showcasing the impor tance of fire prevention and emer gency preparedness. Following the awards, the chil dren had an opportunity to step out side and take photos in front of a fire apparatus—a highlight for many of the young attendees. The celebration concluded with a pizza party, with prizes and refreshments
generously donated by the Troy Housing Authority’s insurance provider ELAI Group. Events like this are key to fos tering a culture of fire safety aware ness in the community, teaching children the importance of having a family emergency meeting place and other fire prevention tips. The Troy Fire Department, in partner ship with the Troy Housing Author ity, aims to make fire prevention education a memorable and impact ful experience for the youngest members of the community.
- JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER
JEFFREY RELSCHWIHDER/SIDEWIHDER PHOTOGRAPHY
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January, 2025
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
JOHN SMITH
S tru c tu re F ire fo r K ia n to n e KIANTONE, NY - On November 10th, the Kiantone Fire De partment and Jamestown Engine 3 and Car 1 were dis patched to Brown and Dewey for a reported a structure fire. Car 361 went on scene, reported a working fire and re quested a second alarm, bringing In Frewsburg, Busti, Lakewood, Fluvanna and Ladderl from Jamestown. Through investigation, the fire was determined to have started in the kitchen area of the home, however the cause of the fire is being ruled undetermined.
PATCH OF THE MONTH If you have photos you would like to see in our “Patch o f the month “feature please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com.
EUGENE WEBER JR.
This patch belongs to the Congers Fire Department, located in Rockland County, NY.
JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER/SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY
A ttic Fire on River St. in Troy Displaces 9 People TROY, NY - On October 29th at 9:27 P.M., the city of Troy's Fire Department responded to 902 River Street for a reported struc ture fire. Engines 4, 1 and 2, the rescue squad. Trucks 2 and 1, Medic 4, and the battalion chief re sponded to the scene. The caller re ported smoke on the second-floor, and they believed that there was a fire in the attic. Engine 4 arrived on scene and notified command that they had a two-story wood-frame building with nothing showing from the exterior, and were inves tigating. Additional apparatus quickly began to arrive on scene along with the battalion chief. The chief noticed smoke showing from the attic area of the structure and transmitted the Signal 30 for a working structure fire. Firefight ers made their way to the second floor and began to search for the source of the smoke. Firefighters making their way up to the scene made their way to the first-floor and the basement, as the home was a balloon frame structure to ensure that they did not have a fire in the basement. Firefighters noti fied command that they had a sig nificant smoke condition in the attic area, and no other fire condi tion in the building. Firefighters pulled the hand line to the secondfloor and made their way to the roof to pop the scuttle. Firefighters began to pull the ceiling and discovered a small fire in the attic area. Firefighters quickly knocked down the fire be fore it could spread any further, and popped the scuttle on the roof to find a slight smoke condition coming from the scuttle with no heat. Firefighters began to over
haul the area around the fire and command called the incident under control. No injuries were reported, and all of the occupants made it out of the house without injury. The fire was investigated by the Troy
Fire Department. No cause has been released at this time. The Red Cross was contacted for all of the individuals inside of the residence.
- JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER
JEFFREY RELSCHWINDER/SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY
Troy Firefighters coming off the roof of the fire building.
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
January, 2025
PAGE 9
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PAGE 10
January, 2025
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
Vehicle News
JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER/SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY
Firefighters saluting Asst. Chief David Plew as the funeral rig passes by the Brunswick No.1 fire station.
Assistant Chief Loses His Fight w ith Fire Service Related Cancer On October 5th, Assistant Fire Chief of the Brunswick No.l Fire Company, David Plew, lost his battle with kidney cancer. Asst. Chief David Plew had been a member of the Brunswick No. 1 Fire Company for over 32 years. Dave was highly devoted to the Brunswick commu nity and his fellow firefighters. As a young child, Dave always had an interest in fire trucks and be coming a firefighter. Growing up in the city of Watervliet and living within a short distance from the Watervliet Fire Department, he would ride his bike to the station, getting to know the firefighters well. From that time on, Dave knew he wanted to become a firefighter. After meeting his wife, Paula Plew, and purchasing their house outside the town of Brunswick, Dave applied to join the Brunswick No.l Fire Company, which would change his life forever. Dave joined the department in March of 1993, working hard as a firefighter and making new friends as he moved up the ranks. Fie quickly advanced from firefighter to lieutenant, then to captain. After a few years, Dave was promoted to the position of second assistant chief. Fie soon moved into the first assistant chief position, where he served for 10 years. During his time in the department, Dave also served on the board of directors, helping to make important decisions, including apparatus purchases to enhance the department’s capabilities and growth. A sports enthusiast, Dave also managed the Watervliet football and basketball teams for many years. Fie loved attending games and events his son participated in, in cluding their yearly trip to Wild wood, New Jersey. Dave truly cherished his role as assistant chief and, for a time, had the privilege of working alongside his son, Matthew Plew, as a fellow firefighter. One of Dave's most memorable incidents was in Sep tember 2022 at the Ace Hardware fire on Floosick Road. Visible for miles, the fire required assistance
TO f ile #102824116
I » from fire departments across Rens selaer County and marked the first fire where Asst. Chief Plew had full command. Dave was described by many as a kind, funny, and caring person who left a lasting impression on everyone he met. Fie was outgoing and easy to befriend. Sadly, after a routine doc tor’s visit, he learned he had stagefour kidney cancer (Renal Cell Carcinoma) and would require sur gery to remove the tumor from his kidney. Despite a healthy lifestyle— he didn’t smoke or drink—the can cer diagnosis came as a shock. Doctors concluded that the cancer was directly linked to his years of firefighting as an interior firefighter. In the fire service, the brother hood and sisterhood mean you never fight alone, especially against can cer. After returning home, members of the department went above and beyond to support Dave and his fam ily. They organized meals, provided new department clothing, arranged fundraisers at the Brunswick Com munity Center, and even assisted with property upkeep so that Paula could stay by his side. Family and friends made every effort to ensure his last weeks were filled with love and memories. Two large fundrais ers were held to help with Dave's medical bills. Unfortunately, on Oc tober 5, 2024, with his family by his side, Dave lost his battle with kidney cancer. Fie is survived by his beloved wife of 32 years, Paula Plew, his son, who followed in his footsteps as a firefighter, and his daughter-in-law, Chelsea LandorPlew. On October 10, 2024, Asst. Chief David Plew was laid to rest with a full firefighter’s funeral. Fire fighters and EMTs from Rensselaer County, Albany County, and even a former department member who traveled from California joined the procession to honor Chief Plew. A
convoy of fire apparatus from across Rensselaer County lined the roads surrounding the station. Two ladder trucks displayed a large American flag that waved majestically in the wind. After the funeral procession departed, firefighters lined up in salute as Dave’s casket was trans ported on a neighboring depart ment’s antique apparatus. The procession paused in front of Dave’s turnout gear in the center of the en gine bay, and the entire area fell silent as the last call was broadcasted over the radio. After lowering their salute, firefighters rejoined the con voy, accompanying Dave to his final resting place. He was surrounded by his Fire Department family, friends, his wife, son, daughter-in-law, and all who cared for him. Asst. Chief Dave Plew made a profound difference in his commu nity in the town of Brunswick and within the fire service over the last 32 years. His family extends grati tude to the sixth-floor staff at Samar itan Hospital, including Morgan, Patrick, and others who cared for Dave. Special thanks also go to Community Hospice staff members Kalissa and Laci, along with Accent Health’s Danielle, for their compas sionate care. The family also appre ciates all members of the Brunswick No.l Fire Company, including Fire Chief Steve Wilson, Center Brunswick Fire Chief Alex Hyra, Melrose Fire Department Asst. Chief Dominic Pasinella, and many others from the fire community for supporting them during this time of loss. Asst. Chief Plew’s family wants firefighters to know that Dave’s can cer was directly linked to his 30 years of firefighting. In accordance with Dave’s wishes, they encourage every firefighter to get a cancer screening blood test as part of their annual department physical. Early detection can provide a fighting chance against this devastating dis ease.
- JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER
RON JEFFERS
The Brewer Fire Engine company of Monsey has placed into service a 2023 Pierce Enforcer 1500-gpm/730-gwt/20-gft rescue pumper as 7-Squad. Features include three cross-lay beds, swing-out tool board, roll-out tool trays, coffin-style compartments back-up camera and six seats in the cab. It carries a "Res-Q-Jack," extrication tools, high rise packs, fans, plus ground ladders are stored in a hose bed compartment.
RON JEFFERS
The Pearl River Hook & Ladder Co. has placed into service a 2023 Rosenbauer 1750-gpm/700-gwt rescue-pumper. The extended front bumper has a hose basket, intake and discharge gates. There are six seats in the cab along with a transverse compartment behind the rear cab doors and a light tower on the roof. In addition, there are two cross-lay beds, a booster reel above the pump on the of ficer's side, portable winch, roll-out tool boards, ground ladders stored in a compartment under the rear hose bed, 10 kW generator and scene lights. It also carries high angle rescue packs under the rear hose bed, cribbing, extrication tools and air bags. There is one hard suction hose located in a compartment on each side of the apparatus, and 1000-feet of 5-inch LDH in the hose bed. The apparatus is set up so that firefighting equipment is located on the driver's side of the rig and rescue tools on the officer's side.
RON JEFFERS
Blauvelt Rescue Engine 1 is a 2024 Pierce Enforcer 2000gpm/730-gwt-30-gft rescue pumper. The cab has eight seats and a transverse compartment behind the rear doors. The extended bumper contains a hose basket and discharge gate. Features in clude a portable winch with four receivers, coffin-style compart ments, scene lights, two speed-lay beds, a light tower, roll-out tool trays and a 7.5 Onan generator.
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January, 2025
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
IS IT THE SAME... OR NOT? EMS ISSUE
CHELLE CORDERO
There are nearly one-quarter of a million individual ambulance companies in the United States, many of these agencies own more than one emergency vehicle. In addition, there are FOUR diverse types of land ambulances. Add to this that there are multiple ambu lance manufacturing companies each boasting better, newer, and more efficient designs. Now top this off with many of the smaller agencies needing to conserve meager funds by buying used ve hicles and corps with fleets pur chasing the same brand and design, but with slight modifica tions depending on the year. For the E.M.T. or Paramedic working in one company with identical rigs in their fleet, switching between vehicles is usually easy - the cabinets and general layout in each rig is iden tical, or close enough. Now imag ine the non-profit agency with three rigs, and volunteer or parttime EMTs to fill the shifts - and because rigs could only be bought as the budget allows, they are a few years apart at least and some were bought used. It is vital dur ing a life-threatening emergency to be able to access and use the proper equipment as quickly as possible, taking time to look for something that takes time away from the patient. EMTs and Paramedics need to be able to rely on the equip ment at hand to give their patient(s) the best care possible enroute to the hospital - some times this care can make the dif ference between life and death. Supervisors should help all new comers to their agency orient
themselves with the insides of each rig, to have a basic under standing of where to locate oxy gen masks and tanks, BP cuffs, collars, gauze, defibrillators and more. They also need to locate im mediately their own PPE. If possi ble, having another provider, more experienced with the insides of the ambulance, ride the first few shifts with the newcomer, would help with the orientation. It would not hurt the agency to label many of the cabinets as well. Providers who expect to jump on the rig should take responsibil ity for themselves to review the various cabinets, draws and out side compartments before each shift. This way they not only fa miliarize themselves with the lo cation of the supplies needed, but they also help to ensure that the ambulance is fully and properly stocked. Obviously if they need to replace missing equipment and supplies, they should take care to fill the items in their proper places. Providers should also practice removing and loading the patient stretcher so that, when needed, pa tient loading can go smoothly. They need to be able to align the stretchers so that they lock in safely for transportation. While most corps will use the same stretcher system for each rig, it is important to know that different brand stretchers will not fit in every rig; this is a big reason that during a response to an MCI, both the driver and the stretcher must remain WITH the individual rig. In addition to the assorted brands of stretchers, some are manual, and some are powered/self-loading. If rigs are designed for pedi atric or obese patients, their stretchers may also be different from the others. The more familiar each crew member is, including drivers who may help with loading patients or bringing in equipment, the smoother the call can go. It is in everyone’s best interest, espe cially the patient, that equipment, supplies, and providers work to gether.
JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER/SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY
Car Chase Ends in Fiery Crash at Federal and 6th in Troy TROY, NY - On the evening of November 5th, a routine traffic stop in Watervliet escalated into a dangerous chase, ending in a fiery multi-vehicle crash in Troy. The in cident began when a Watervliet po lice officer identified a vehicle with stolen license plates and attempted to pull it over. Although the driver initially complied, he suddenly fled at high speed, recklessly racing to ward Troy. Out of concern for public safety, Watervliet police officers decided to terminate the pursuit. However, moments later, the flee ing vehicle collided with multiple occupied vehicles, including a CDTA bus near 5th Avenue and River Street and at the intersection of Federal and 6th Avenues in Troy. The crash caused significant dam age and brought traffic to a dead stop as cars were all over the inter section. Police units made their way to the scene and took one per son into custody.
Jump to file #112324101
*4 3 Firefighters from the Troy Fire Department at Central station just down the street, heard the loud crash and made their way outside to investigate. They discovered the crash, including a vehicle on fire. Members of the fire department im mediately responded with Truck 2, the Rescue Squad, Medic 4, and the Battalion Chief. Upon arrival, firefighters from the Rescue Squad quickly pulled a hand line and knocked down the car fire, while other members as sessed and checked on the occu pants of the vehicles involved in the crash. Troy firefighters re mained on the scene to mitigate hazards and manage the incident until a tow company arrived to re move the damaged vehicles. The driver, identified as 21year-old Bahelanya Mnyomoelwa
of Albany, was taken into custody at the scene. He now faces numer ous charges. In Watervliet, he has been charged with criminal posses sion of stolen property in the fifth degree, unlawful fleeing of a police officer in a motor vehicle in the third degree, reckless driving, ag gravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the second degree (for having three or more suspen sions on separate dates), operating an unregistered motor vehicle on a highway, operating a motor vehicle without insurance, failure to obey a police officer, and two equipment violations: inadequate lights and non-transparent side windows. In Troy, Mnyomoelwa faces addi tional charges for leaving the scene of a property damage accident and two citations for passing a red traf fic signal. The driver was released with a court date for the tickets he had received.
- JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER
Read more from all of our columnists on our website! www.1rbn.com
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
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January, 2025
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
DRIIIS/TRAINING To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com
On 10-5-24, Winona Lake Engine Company drilled on bailout training.
JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER/ SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY
Firefighters on scene of the barn fire hitting the heavy fire from the collapsed barn. VINNIE DOMINICK
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Stephentown Firefighters Battle Early-Morning Barn Fire STEPHENTOWN, NY - On November 12th at 4:15 A.M., the Stephentown Fire Department, Hoags Comers Fire Department, and Stephentown Ambulance were dispatched to a re ported bam fire with multiple calls at 1438 Route 43. The callers were report ing multiple vehicles to be on fire also on scene. The chief called en route to the scene and requested Averill Park Fire Department and Taborton Fire Department to stand by in station with manpower and tankers to pos sibly respond to the scene. As the chief was doing so, the dispatcher notified the chief that they had a confirmed working bam fire that was fully involved according to the multiple callers and requested the two departments to the scene. Stephentown Car 1 arrived on scene and immediately transmitted the Signal 30 for a fully involved barn fire with a vehicle fully in volved away from the bam and an exposure issue with the house. The first arriving engine tanker on scene deployed a hand line and began to knock down the car fire in the drive way that was spreading to another vehicle. Firefighters immediately went to work knocking down the heavy fire condition of the barn along with a vehicle that was inside of the barn. The bam had already collapsed in on itself and firefighters utilized foam to knock down some of the large fire conditions on scene. As firefighters were working, re sources quickly began to arrive on scene and firefighters went to work knocking down the fire. As they were doing so, a chief noticed a
bmsh fire that had started down the road from an ember from the bam and utilized a water can and knocked it down before it could spread into the mountain. Firefighters on scene continued to knock down the fire condition from the bam, and as they were doing so, a firefighter checked the house and noticed that an eve was on fire. The firefighter utilized a hook and pulled the gutter and the eve around the fire as another firefighter grabbed a hand line and knocked down the fire condition in the house. Firefighters made their way inside of the home and checked for any further extension. Within 40 minutes, the in
cident was fully under control and all of the visible fire was knocked down. Firefighters continued to conduct ex tensive overhaul on scene for over an hour before picking up. Fire investi gators from Rensselaer County ar rived on scene and began to conduct an investigation into the fire. At this time no cause has been released. Also, no injuries have been reported. This incident could’ve been worse, as there was a significant wind that day and extremely dry conditions in the woods nearby that created a high potential for a large bmsh fire from this fire.
- JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER
JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER/SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY
Firefighters opening up the eves where the fire had spread to the house.
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January, 2025
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER/SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY
THOMAS MARRA
Albany Firefighters working on the 3 dogs pulled from the building.
Two Dogs Rescued By Albany Firefighters ALBANY, NY - On October 24th at 10:36 P.M., multiple calls poured into the city of Albany‘s emergency communication center for a reported structure fire at 29 Stephen Street in the south end of the city. Engine 5, Ladder 1, En gine 1, Rescue 9, Engine 9, Battal ion 1, Mohawk Ambulance Service, Truck 4 and the rescue squad were dispatched. The callers reported that all people were out of the house, but there were dogs still inside, and they were unable to get to them. The police department ar rived on scene, notified the dis patcher and stated that they had heavy smoke showing from the house. Engine 5 arrived on scene and transmitted the Signal 30 for a working structure fire. Firefighters deployed a one-and-three-quarterinch hand line into the front door of the structure where they en countered a heavy fire condition on the first-floor and heavy smoke pushing throughout the structure. Ladder 1 set up in the middle of the street and placed the ladder to the roof of the house. One of the dogs inside of the structure was able to make its way outside. Fire fighters on the first-floor made an aggressive interior attack, quickly knocking down the heavy fire con dition. As firefighters were con ducting a primary search of the building. Engine 9 established a water supply for the scene. Fire fighters on the second-floor dis covered several more dogs and began bringing them outside. Within seconds of the dogs being taken outside, over a dozen firefighters stopped what they were doing and began performing life-saving measures on three of the rescued dogs. Additional fire fighters inside of the structure no tified command that the fire was knocked down and overhaul was beginning. Additional members of Mohawk Ambulance Service began to grab oxygen bottles and
J ump t o f ile #110624119
•6
3#
pet rescue masks. Firefighters on scene provided oxygen to two of the dogs, while five firefighters provided oxygen and began to per form CPR on one of the dogs. As they were doing so, firefighters switched off back-and-forth for over 20 minutes attempting to save the dog's life. The owner loaded two of the dogs in his vehicle and took off for the emergency vet clinic, and unfortunately one of the dogs did not survive. Firefighters on scene contin ued to work conducting extensive overhaul of the first and second floor. No firefighters were injured on scene during the incident. Fire fighters remained on scene for an extended period of time while fire investigators worked to discover the cause of the fire. The Red Cross was contacted for the indi viduals inside of the home. Thanks to the remarkable and swift actions of the Albany fire fighters and the dedicated mem bers from Mohawk Ambulance Service, the two beloved dogs sur vived what could’ve been a devas tating tragedy. Faced with smoke, fire, and a race against time, these dedicated firefighters went above and beyond, not only knocking down the fire rapidly, but also per forming life-saving measures to give these dogs a fighting chance. Their willingness to push through exhaustion and work together in such a challenging condition speaks volumes about their com mitment to their community's safety. Albany residents are truly fortunate to have such selfless, skilled professionals ready to step up in a moment of crisis, and the residents of the city of Albany should all be grateful for their un wavering dedication.
- JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER
One Dead A fte r Car V s. Tree in D elm ar DELMAR, NY - Crews were called to the area of 138 Elm Ave. in Delmar for reports of a car that crashed into a tree around 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 24th. First responders arrived to find a car head-on into a tree with airbag deployment, with the operator of the vehicle still inside. Firefighters assisted EMS personnel in placing the driver onto a backboard and lift ing him out of the car and into the ambulance. Bethlehem Police say the vehi cle was traveling southbound on Elm Avenue when it reportedly left the roadway, crashing into the tree. The driver was being trans-
tu FILE # 112224113
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ported aboard an ambulance from Delmar-Bethlehem EMS, with a Bethlehem Police Officer follow ing, when the ambulance stopped on the Delmar Bypass at Murray Avenue and requested an additional paramedic to respond to them, ac cording to radio traffic. Bethlehem Police report the driver, who was the only occupant in the vehicle, reportedly died from serious injury sustained in the crash. Police say the driver was a 29-year-old male. At the time of
this report, police said their home town was unknown. Delmar Fire, Slingerlands Fire, Delmar-Bethlehem EMS, Albany County Paramedics and Bethlehem Police responded to the scene. Elm Avenue was closed in both direc tions from Axbridge Lane to Mur ray Avenue for approximately 45 minutes. Firefighters assisted in fluid cleanup in the roadway from the vehicle. Bethlehem Police are still in vestigating the crash and an exact cause of the crash has not yet been determined as of this report.
-THOMAS MARRA
JEFFREY ARH0LD/@FIREPHGT025
Lakeville Mobile Home Fire LAKEVILLE, NY - On Tuesday, November 12th at 4:42 p.m., Town of Livonia fire departments (Lakeville, Livonia and Hemlock) along with East Avon (FAST) and Livonia EMS responded to a reported kitchen fire at the Conesus Lake mobile home park, 5931 Big Tree Road in Lakeville. Responding units reported a header in the sky, and upon arrival confirmed a working fire in a single-wide mobile home. The blaze was brought under control in about 30 minutes. An addi tional engine from Geneseo was requested to the scene for manpower to assist with final ex tinguishment and overhaul. There were no injuries reported. The cause of the fire was under investigation by the Livingston County Sheriff's Office and the Livingston County Office of Emergency Management. The displaced occupants were being assisted by the Red Cross.
January, 2025
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
PAGE 17
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January, 2025
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
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Fully involved on arrival.
House Fire on Rural Road in Town of Lorraine LORRAINE, NY - At approx imately 2:07 P.M. on November 18th, the Jefferson County 911 Dispatch Center received a call from a person stating he had re ceived several motion activations from his trail camera, and he had discovered they may have been caused by smoke and that his par ents' house may be on fire. At 2:08 P.M., the Lorraine Fire department was dispatched for a report of a possible structure fire at 2739 Town Line Road in the Town of Lorraine with Adams Fire Department as Automatic Mutual Aid. Lorraine Fire Chief Mark Shelmidine observed a large amount of smoke while respond ing to the incident and requested mutual aid from MannsvilleManor, Adams Center and Lacona (from Oswego County) Fire De partments. The incident was lo cated approximately seven miles from Lorraine’s station, with mu tual aid units traveling from 10 to 14 miles to reach the scene. Upon arrival, Lorraine Assis tant Chief Brian Soules discov ered a single-family residence on a very narrow rural road fully in volved in fire. An initial attack was made with the deck gun on
J ump to f ile #112624100
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Lorraine’s Engine 28-4-1. Adams Engine 1-4-2 was rerouted to a fill site approxi mately one mile from the scene to fill tankers. Adams Truck 1-8-1 was moved into position to get its tower in the air to reach the deep seated fire in the collapsed build ing. Tankers from Lorraine, Adams Center, Mannsville-Manor and Lacona shuttled water to the scene. Lorraine Fire responded with an engine, tanker and rescue. Adams Fire responded with two engines, truck, rescue and squad, Mannsville-Manor Fire responded with a tanker. Lacona Fire re sponded with an engine and tanker. Adams Center responded with an engine, tanker and rescue. Units remained on the scene for several hours. Fire Investigators from the Jefferson County Office of Fire and Emergency Management are handling the investigation, and no cause has been determined as of this time.
- ROBERT SIMPSON
ADAMS FIRE DEPARTMENT
Adams Truck 1-8-1
JEFFREY BEISCHWINDER/SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY
Over 40 firefighters staging in the front of the house.
5-Year-0ld Hero Alerts Dad to Neighbor’s House Fire in Hemstreet Park HEMSTREET PARK, NY On October 26th at 2:39 A.M., a five-year-old child named Bennett Bashford, who has autism, woke up to the glow of the neighbor's house on fire. He made his way to his father, who was sound asleep on the family couch in their living room, and told him, “There’s a fire daddy, hurry look a fire, it is dan gerous”. Zack, Bennett’s father, jumped up from the couch and im mediately called 911. After getting off the phone, Zack ran over to the neighbor's house and began pounding on the windows to wake the occupants inside of the home. Zack assisted the occupants out of the side door of the burning home while waiting for the fire depart ment to arrive on scene. The Hemstreet Park Fire De partment, Johnsonville Fire De partment, Speigletown Fire Department, Schaghticoke Fire Department, Melrose Fire Depart ment, Mechanicville Fire Depart ment, Round Lake Fire Department for the FAST team, Arvin Hart Fire Department and Hoosic Valley Rescue Squad were dispatched to the address of 112 South Pearl Street. As firefighters were responding to the Hemstreet Park fire station, a heavy column of smoke was visible off in the distance. The chief of the Hem street Fire Department called en route to the scene, and the dis patcher notified him that the caller
Jump tu file # 110324111
r» 4 stated the front porch was on fire. Firefighters began to arrive at the fire station in Hemstreet Park and immediately grabbed the radio to notify the dispatcher that the house was well-involved, and vis ible from the fire station. Firefighters pulled out of the station and arrived on scene with the chief right behind them. With heavy fire pushing out of the front of the house, the chief took com mand of the scene and notified the dispatcher that he had a Signal 30 working fire. The chief was able to confirm that everybody was out of the house. Firefighters, not wasting any time, deployed a 200foot section of Super II and went to work knocking down the heavy fire condition. Firefighters from Mechanicville arrived on scene and began to assist firefighters with pulling another hand line to the front door of the house to knock down the remaining fire in side of the structure. Firefighters conducted a primary search of the home and made sure everybody was out of the structure. Addi tional resources began to arrive on scene, and firefighters began to stage in the front yard of the home. Within a few minutes, fire fighters had the fire completely knocked down and began over
hauling. Firefighters began to pick up the scene and assist with getting the fire apparatus back into serv ice. Command requested investi gators to the scene to determine the cause of the fire. Command had firefighters conduct a second ary search of the home, which was negative for all occupants. During their search of the home, firefight ers were able to locate a few cats that were unharmed. Firefighters went back into service later in the morning hours. The Hemstreet Park Fire De partment commends Bennett and his parents, Zack and Carissa, for their remarkable courage and commitment to their community safety. This young hero, Bennett, not only inspired life-saving ac tions from his father, but also em bodied the value of empathy and responsibility his parents have worked hard to instill. Their story serves as a powerful reminder for families to establish an emergency plan, and assure smoke and CO alarms are in working order - sim ple yet vital steps that saves lives. Bennett will always be a home town hero to the Hemstreet Park Fire Department, and a shining ex ample of the impact one young brave individual can make on the community.
- JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER
January, 2025
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
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January, 2025
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
FUTURE 1st RESPONDERS If you have photos you would like to see in our “Future First Responders” feature, please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com.
DRILLS/TRAINING To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com
PROVIDED
South Orangetown Ambulance Corp Deputy Chief Peter Romisher was happy to greet future first responders/trick or treaters Olivia, Logan and Phinn from Tappan, NY.
VINNIE DOM INICK
On October 29th, Winona Lake Engine Company held a hands-on training drill with tools.
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January, 2025
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
The Deadliest Train W recks of New England
PAGE 21
Rick Billings CD ot to trot...
ON THE BOOK SHELF by John Malecky
The Deadliest Train Wrecks of New England By Gregg M. Turner Available from: FSP Books & Videos 433 Main Street, Suite 2A Hudson, MAO 1749 1-800-522-8528 Email: support@fire-policeems.com www.fire-police-ems.com Price: $24.99 This is a soft cover book measuring 6 inches by 9 inches, with 102 pages, plus a section of notes. It contains seven chapters of fatal wrecks in Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts (two parts), Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine, for a total of 18 inci dents. The first two occurred in 1853 (one each in Connecticut and Rhode Island), and the latest in 1966 (Massachusetts). The sto ries are well detailed in explana tions on what happened, and who if anyone was to blame. The causes of these crashes include improper brakes, derailments, de fective rails, broken car axles, poor construction and mainte nance issues, faulty bridge de signs, train dispatcher and telegraph operator errors, m isin terpretation of train orders and signals by train crews, misplaced switches, objects left on tracks, boiler explosions, speeding, weather washouts, sleep deprived and intoxicated workers, tres passers, livestock, stalled vehicles on tracks and Acts of God. In all of the 18 accidents, nearly 400 people lost their lives, including railroad personnel. There are many black and white pictures, photos, drawings and newspaper pages (showing headlines). The details go as far as to name names of railroad personnel who in one way or another played a role in the disasters. Some of the persons named lost their lives in these in cidents. Reading the details, espe cially about how some of the passengers were killed, tests the emotions of the reader. It is well
known that many fire buffs are also railroad buffs. Reading this book gives an education as to how de tailed train operations and stan dards are which otherwise may not be known to those not involved in this interest. The author is from Connecticut and is a collegiate ed ucator. H e’s had a lifelong interest in trains, railroading and railway history. He has authored over a dozen awarding winning books and articles.
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January, 2025
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
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R esponder N ewspaper This section is exclusively dedicated to coverage of Long Island emergency services PUBLISHING SINCE 1993
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JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS
MASTIC, NY - A 28-year-old man was rescued Wednesday evening, October 2nd, after his Toyota pickup truck crashed into a tree and became trapped in the woods along Sunrise Highway. Suffolk County Police received a call at 6:40 P.M. reporting the vehicle in distress, located eastbound between Exits 58 and 59. -
See full story on Page 26
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January, 2025
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
LONG ISLANlf ADVERTISER
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CORPORATE INFORMATION RRADLEY FOWLER/FIRE GUY PHOTOGRAPHY 1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New York edition - Vol. 27 No. 1 - is published monthly, 12 times a year for $48 per year by Belsito Communications, Inc., 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. Pe riodicals Postage Paid at Newburgh, NY and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. No financial responsibility is assumed by this newspaper to publish a display, classified, or legal ad or for graphical B E L S D T O errors excomm unications, inc. cept of reprinting that part o f the ad which was omitted or in error. Omissions or errors must be brought to the at tention o f the newspaper during the same month o f publication. Printed in Canada.
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DRADLEY FOWLER/FIRE GUY PHOTOGRAPHY
Sayville Fire Department Christens Two New Rigs SAYVILLE, NY - On Sunday, November 10th, the Sayville Fire Department hosted a rededication for Station 2 and wet-down ceremony for Engine 3-11-5 and Tower Ladder 3-11-9. Engine 5 is a 2021 Pierce Engine, which replaced a 1993 Pierce En gine. Tower 9 is a 2023 Pierce Tower Ladder, which replaced a 2010 Pierce Tower.
PURUCATION CONTENT
RRADLEY FOWLER/FIRE GUY PHOTOGRAPHY
Notice: The advertisements, articles, and letters contained in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views o f 1st Responder Inc. and Belsito Communications, Inc. Advertisements are sold pur suant to the “space available” and corresponding fee schedule. The mere fact that advertisements are contained in this publication does not express nor imply that 1st Responder Inc. and Belsito Commu nications, Inc. vouches for the credibility o f the claims made in the advertisements or the representations expressed or implied in them.
Additional news from Long Island PROVIDED
can be found on our website at www.1rbn.com
Vehicle Fire on Sunrise Highway While returning from a Mutual Aid to the Bayport Fire Depart ment for a working structure fire, West Sayville was activated for a vehicle fire on Sunrise Highway in the early morning hours of October 20th. 3-10-31 and 3-10-8 quickly responded and arrived on scene of a fully involved vehicle.
Fast-M oving Fire Destroys 7 Dusinesses in Sayville SAYVILLE, NY - On Friday, October 25th, at approximately 5:40 P.M., the Sayville FD was activated for a reported commercial structure fire at 25 Main Street. The first arriving chief encoun tered a heavy fire condition pushing from different store fronts and transmitted a working fire. Sayville apparatus arrived quickly and started stretching lines for fire suppression. Lad der trucks were put into operation to knock down a majority of the fire. Mutual aid was provided by East Islip FD, Islip Terrace FD, Bohemia FD, Bayport FD, Holbrook FD, Blue Point FD, North Patchogue FD, and Patchogue FD. All units operated under the command of Sayville Fire Department Chief of De partment Craig Fazio. No injuries were reported. The fire is cur rently under investigation.
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
January, 2025
PAGE 25
V ehicle Crashes Into Garage; Driver H ospitalized in S hirley SHIRLEY, NY - The Mastic Fire Department and Suffolk County Police responded to a call Tuesday morning, October 9th, after a vehicle struck a home on Floyd Road, partially entering the garage. The acci dent occurred around 9:10 a.m., prompting emer gency dispatch to alert Mastic Fire Chief Steven Januskiewicz to a possible entrap ment. Upon arrival. Mastic FD Engine 1 and Fire Po lice 80, along with Mastic Beach FD ’s engine, found a vehicle lodged in the garage. Fortunately, rescuers were able to remove the driver without the need for heavy extrication. Mastic Ambulance transported the driver to a nearby hospital for evaluation. This incident marked the fourth of six calls for the Mastic Fire Department that day.
- JOHN WALTHERS
JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS
Firefighters operate at a car into a garage in Shirley.
ART FOR HEROES If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Art for Heroes” feature please upload them
WORKING FACES If you have photos you would like to see in our “Working Faces” feature, please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com
on our website www.lRiBN.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com
PROVIDED RY JOSEPH P HARRIS, NJDOH/EMT-INSTRUCTOR
On 11/5/24 at the Bergen County EMS Training Center, we had a class of Probationary Firefighters from New Jersey graduate from our EMT program. This sketch was drawn by one of my students during our CPR/Resuscitation section of the course. The Probie firefighter/artist's name is Chris Par sons, and he is with the West Orange, NJ Fire Department.
JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS
Mastic Assistant Chief Rudy Sunderman directs Probationary FF Marcus at a recent MVA with entrapment.
PAGE 26
January, 2025
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
BUDDY SHOTS If you have photos you would like to see in our “Buddy Shots” feature, please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com.
JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS
Mastic Firefighter Chris Greene surveys for extra wreckage after the driver is extricated. JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS
Brookhaven Firefighters Simeone and Arellano take a photo as they await orders before the live burn demonstration during open house.
VEHICLE NEWS
Driver Rescued from Vehicle in Woods After Crash on Sunrise Highway MASTIC, NY - A 28-year-old man was rescued Wednesday evening, October 2nd, after his Toyota pickup truck crashed into a tree and became trapped in the woods along Sunrise Highway. Suffolk County Police received a call at 6:40 P.M. reporting the ve hicle in distress, located eastbound between Exits 58 and 59. The Mastic Fire Department and Mas tic Ambulance were dispatched at 6:42 P.M. to assist. Upon arrival. Mastic Fire Chief Steven Januszkiewicz and Assistant Chief Rudy Sunderman confirmed the vehicle had collided
i BOB VACCARO
The Rockville Centre Fire Department took delivery of a 2023 Spartan Emergency Response engine for Live Oak Engine Com pany. It features a 1500-gpm pump and 500-gallon water tank.
BOB VACCARO
The Riverhead Fire Department took delivery of a KenworthT880 Fouts Brothers Tanker. The new vehicle has a 1500-gpm pump and a 4000-gallon tank.
tp file #102824101
39 I & with a tree and was partially ob scured by dense foliage. The driver was found trapped inside. Fire fighters worked quickly to stabi lize the vehicle before employing the Jaws of Fife to extricate the driver. They successfully removed the driver’s side door and, with a coordinated effort involving Mas tic Fire Department members. Mastic Ambulance personnel, Suf folk Police highway officers, and a Suffolk Police Medcat officer, the
man was freed from the wreckage. EMTs treated the driver at the scene for unspecified injuries. The Suffolk Police Emergency Serv ices Unit arrived shortly afterward to assist with the recovery of the pickup truck from the wooded area. The scene was declared under control by Chief Januszkiewicz at approximately 7:15 P.M., and was subsequently turned over to the po lice for further investigation. Police have not released the identity of the driver.
- JOHN WALTHERS
WHERE ARE THEY NOW? If you have photos you would like to see in our Where are they Now? feature please upload them on our website www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com.
FRANK RUBINSUN
Setauket, NY Fire Department once ran this 1998 E-One Rescue. The unit is now in service in Shrewsbury, PA Fire Company.
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
January, 2025
PAGE 27
LONG ISLA
Wading River Fire Department Hosts Open House w ith Exciting Demos and Community A c tiv itie s WADING RIVER, NY - On October 5th, the Wading River Fire Department welcomed scores of residents to its annual open house, where attendees enjoyed a mix of fire safety demonstrations, community activi ties, and educa tional displays. The event aimed to give locals a firsthand look at the depart ment’s equipment, rescue techniques, and the work fire fighters do to keep the community safe. One of the day’s main attrac tions was a vehicle extrication demonstration, where firefighters showed how they use specialized tools to rescue individuals trapped in vehicles after serious accidents. In a thrilling addition, the depart ment also conducted a live car fire demonstration under the com mand of Chief of Department Mark Donnelly, illustrating how firefighters approach and extin guish vehicle fires safely. In a highlight for younger at tendees, the Wading River Fire Department offered kids the chance to ride up the road on fire engines and a brush truck, making for an unforgettable experience. Families also had the opportunity to view a variety of firefighting apparatus up close, with firefight ers on hand to explain how each piece is used in different types of emergencies. The Wading River Fire De partment’s open house was a re sounding success, bringing together community members for a day filled with education, ex citement, and insight into the work of their local firefighters.
JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS
Wading River firefighters put out a car fire during open house demonstrations.
- JOHN WALTHERS
Stay on top of the news. V isit 1st Responder on the Web at 1R B N .co m
JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS
Wading River LT. Brendan Donnelly helps cousins use a fire hose at open house.
PAGE 28
January, 2025
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
LONG ISLAND^ DRILLS/TRAINING If you have photos you would like to see in our Drills feature, please upload them on our website www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com.
Ladders Although not exactly the most glamorous tool or task, ladders are by far the most important supporting tool firefighters use. Instructing on the particulars of ladder use and maintenance can therefore be a challenging topic but again a necessary one for firefighting operations. The in teresting part about teaching about ladders is that although there are some commonalities both in form and function each ladder type can be its own sepa rate drill; that is how much infor mation there is to cover. For example, you may group single, extension ladders together but you really can’t add in aerial lad ders because they are so much different to operate. Most fire companies carry sev eral different types of ladders obviously due to the multitude of circumstances on the fireground. Each of course with dif ferent uses as illustrated in the table on the top right which is by no means finite but presented here as a drill starting point. As the instructor introduces each ladder type, they should go through the parts of each one. Using an extension ladder as an example an instructor would go over the base and fly sections, halyard, rungs, side rails, locks and feet. The physical attributes of a ladder can also generate mini drills. For example, tying a clove hitch on the halyard. The physical characteristics of a lad der can also include what mate rial the ladder is made out of with wood, fiberglass and alu minum being the leading materi als. Of course, each material having advantages and disad vantages. Once an instructor has pre sented the types of ladders and their possible uses the next most logical step is to discuss the safety features on each lad der that should be included in any drill. More specifically the fire ladder label set and heat sensor labels. The instructor should emphasize the fact that once these safety features have been utilized (specifically the
heat sensor) that the ladder must be taken out of service.
Ladder
S ingle
E x te n s io n
A-
A c c e s s /E g re s s
A c c e s s /E g re s s
Type
To further drive home the point of safety features an instructor can also expand the knowledge base by discussing NFPA stan dards 1931 and 1932. These standards dictate all the details of ladder testing including weight application and how often testing is to be completed. To summarize when ladders are “tested” they are placed on saw horses with weights placed on them until they bend. Once the weight is removed the ladder should “snap” back to within a certain degree of its original form. If the ladder does not re turn to its original straightness or within an acceptable differen tial, then it must be removed from service. What ladder drill would be com plete without the application of motor skills. This of course refers to the different types of carries and raising. Probably the most important point to empha size when carrying ladders are that the butt end of the ladder is always carried in the lead. This is so that the butt end can be placed against the building or house for more rapid deploy ment. The “butt firefighter” is therefore the one calling out in structions to lift, move and place the ladder. The two basic ladder carries are the flat and shoulder carry. Re gardless of which carry is used on the fireground or practiced in a drill the most important part is coordination between firefight ers as they carry and/or raise the ladder. Remember the goal of throwing a ladder is to rescue a victim or provide egress for fire fighters so there really isn’t room for error. Granted the fireground has that sense of urgency how ever, we practice like we work on the fireground and so efficiency is the key which means your ef forts need to be coordinated. As far as the type of carry and the number of firefighters neces sary a good general rule is the first number of the ladder length. For example, if the ladder is 14 feet, then only one firefighter is necessary to carry it. If the ladder is 24 feet long then two firefight
U ses
A ttic
Roof
A e ria l
A c c e s s /E g re s s
Has ro o f
A c c e s s /E g re s s
hooks
to ro o fto p s
V e n tila tio n
S e a rc h /R e s c u e
F r a m e /U tility T o o l c a rrie r
F ire /s m o k e d e te c to r
S e a rc h /R e s c u e
access
S e a rc h /R e s c u e
S e a rc h /R e s c u e
o p e ra tio n s
ers should be used to carry that ladder. Regardless, of the length however one other of the finer points is that if three firefighters are used to carry a ladder to have the middle carry on the opposite side of the end firefighters. Also, every once in a while, as an in structor there is an inherently comedic skill. In the case of lad ders picture a three firefighter carry with the middle firefighter shorter than the two end fire fighters to the point where that middle firefighter cannot reach the ladder to provide any signifi cant assistance. The second most important point relates to raising a ladder and that is to make sure there are no obstacles overhead such as overhanging branches or espe cially power lines. A good in structor will emphasize calling out “clear overhead” EVERY TIME! This exclamation is often part of any test that firefighters need to demonstrate they have ladder skills down. Raising a lad der can be done one of two ways; the rung and beam method. The former uses the rungs to walk the ladder up and into position while the latter uses the beam to raise the ladder into position. Each way the ladder needs to be footed by either an other firefighter or the base of the wall. When the ladder is raised it is im portant to note that the fly sec tion should be facing AWAY from the wall. That said, in a single firefighter raise the fly section initially faces the wall and then is flipped 180 degrees while using multiple firefighters has the fly section always facing away from the wall. Once vertical use the 4:1 ratio for setting the ladder. Generally, this works out to be a 75-degree angle and is tested by
standing at the base and holding your arms straight out until the tips of your fingers can grasp the rung in front of you. A more con crete example would be a 24-foot ladder the base of the ladder should be about six feet from the base of the wall. Last point would be that ladders have so many uses besides but one that has been taught to me and that I have passed along as an instructor is to use a ladder to transport tools. Think about this for a second, many volunteer de partments will not have sufficient personnel for a given fire and so a single firefighter has a choice - either use a ladder to transport multiple tools such as hand tools, chainsaw, cutters edge
etc., in one shot or run back and forth multiple times with several tools to the point you are spent and cannot assist any further. As mentioned, a single article cannot provide all the finer points of ladder usage and de ployment as there are so many other pieces of important infor mation. That argument should be enough to convince any fire fighter the importance of ladder use and deployment. However, the skills needed to be proficient in ladder usage are perishable and must be practiced continu ously in order to be ready on the fireground.
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
January, 2025
PAGE 29
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PAGE 30
January, 2025
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
V ehicle News
RON JEFFERS
In Brooklyn, Engine Co. 210 is assigned a Seagrave 2000gpm/500-gwt pumper with Fleet # SP23012.
DAVID BURNS/@FD4D
RON JEFFERS
FDNY Engine 55 operates a Seagrave 2000-gpm/500-gwt pumper with Fleet # SP23012.
DAVID BURNS/@FD4D
NYC Emergency Services Support Veterans Day Parade MANHATTAN, NY - New York City's Emergency Services members were on hand November 10th to help secure and participate in the 2024 Veterans Day Parade up Fifth Avenue.
RON JEFFERS
FDNY Ladder Co. 8 has been assigned a Seagrave 100-foor rearmount aerial ladder with Fleet # SL24003.
V isit 1st Responder News on the web at www.1RBN.com
RON JEFFERS
In Manhattan, FDNY Engine Co. 1 has been assigned a Seagrave 2000-gpm/500-gwt pumper, possessing Fleet # SP23005.
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
JOSHUA BURNS/@ FD4D
Queens Woman Killed in Late Afternoon Fire QUEENS, NY - On November 17th, NYC (Queens) FDNY Box 5436 on the scene of a fatal all hands fire at 218-59 110th Avenue. One unidentified elderly woman was found on the second-floor.
WHERE ARE THEY
■
January, 2025
PAGE 31
The staff of 1st Responder Newspaper would like to extend to our valued readers and advertisers our warmest wishes for a Safe £- Happy Holiday Season.
If you have photos you would like to see in our Where are they Now? feature please upload them on our website www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com.
N ew spaper
RON JEFFERS
This 2000 Pierce Dash 1500-gpm/650-gwt/50-gft pumper originally served with the Point Pleasant Beach Fire Department. Acquired in 2022, this apparatus is now part of the Broad Channel V.F.D., in the Borough of Queens.
PAGE 32
January, 2025
1537 Responder Newspaper - NY
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