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MARCH, 2026
JEFFREY A R N0LD/@ FIREP HO T025
RICHMOND, NY - Around 6:00 p.m., January 20th, Honeoye and Bristol fire departments responded to a house fire at 5109 Pinewood Hill Road in the town of Richmond. Firefighters arrived on location and found a working fire in a residential structure that was unoccupied and undergoing renovations. ■
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March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
JEFFREY ARN0LD/@ FIREPH0T025
House Fire in Hemlock Q uickly Extinguished HEMLOCK, NY - On Saturday, January 31st at 10:46 a.m., firefighters from Hemlock, Livonia, Lakeville and East Avon (FAST) responded to a house fire at 4698 Main Street in Hemlock. Units arrived on location with a fire in the wall of the residence. The fire was brought quickly under control with no injuries reported. Also assisting at the scene were Livonia EMS, Livingston County ALS, Livingston County Emergency Management, Livingston County Sheiff's Office and National Grid.
ROR MCCORMICK
Fatal O ne-Vehicle MVA in Newburgh Under In ve stig a tio n NEWBURGH, NY - Town of Newburgh Police are investigating a one-vehicle fatal MVAthat occurred on February 2nd at 188 State Route 32. Cronomer Valley FD responded, and EMS was on scene. Town of Newburgh EMS requested MedEvac to stand by; EMS later canceled MedEvac. The subject was pro nounced DOA. Town of Newburgh Police requested the area to be lit. The Medical Examiner’s Office responded to the scene. Cronomer Valley FD used their light tower to illumi nate the area where the vehicle came to rest off the roadway. New York State Police assisted at the scene. Town of New burgh Police are investigating the cause.
SHARON E. SIEGEL
PJFD and Westfall Fire Departments train on soon-to-be-demolished Port Jervis houses.
Port Jervis and Neighboring Fire Departments Sharpen Skills in Non-Repairable Houses PORT JERVIS, NY - Firefight ers from Port Jervis Fire Depart ment and neighboring departments were recently given an opportunity to carry out multiple training evolutions in real-life settings in Port Jervis. They were granted permis sion to train in three Port Jervis houses that are planned for demolition. Two of the training drills took place in December of 2025, with PJFD and Sparrowbush Engine Company (both NY) and Matamoras Fire Department (PA). The third took place on January 15, 2026 with PJFD and Westfall Fire Department (PA). Members of all PJFD companies and chiefs, along with members and chiefs of the neighboring companies, were rep resented at the drills. PJFD Assistant Chief Christo pher Southard, who was responsible for planning and overseeing the third on-site drill, said firefighters were able to work on sharpening various interior and exterior skills and abilities during all three drills. Firefighting techniques used during the third drill included VES (Venter Enter Search, victim re moval down a ladder - from a win dow and a balcony, forcible entry, SCBA familiarization, wall breach ing, escape procedures, proper ground ladder placement, and aerial ladder placement. Additionally, some of the com panies took advantage of the Janu ary drill time to give newer members time to practice hooking
up to hydrants and handling hoses, and other members driving time. Besides responses to emergency calls throughout each year, volunteer firefighters are required to complete many hours of training and can
achieve various levels of certifica tion. Records are maintained for all training and certifications of each firefighter.
- SHARON SIEGEL
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
March, 2026
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March, 2026
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CORPORATE INFORMATION 1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New York edition - Vol. 27 No. 3 - 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, 1Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. No financial r sponsibility is assumed by , this newspaper to publish a display, classified, or legal ad or for typographical errors except o f reprinting that part of the ad which was omit ted or in error. Omissions or errors must be brought to the attention of the newspaper during the same month of publication. Printed in Canada.
Sometimes you must look to the skies to get that critical trauma victim the help that they need. Imagine that you just arrived at the scene of twisted metal and blood. O f all the victims there is one that, you know, needs imme diate help from a Level-1 Trauma Center. But the mountain roads you are on, as well as the location of the closest L evel-1 hospital, could take too long; your patient doesn’t have that kind of time. An Air Medical crew is called for, and you package your patient, load him into your rig, and get him to the closest “landing zone” (i.e.: a traffic circle, an empty school yard, the remains of a commuter parking lot...) where you will meet up with an Air Am bulance. Yes, sometimes help comes from “above”. When we think of “ambulance transports”, we usually think only of road vehicles rushing down a highway or winding through city streets. There are also “Air Ambu lances”, both helicopters and fixed wing planes. Their crews are highly trained, like our ground ambulance crews, and are often staffed by Pilots, Flight Para medics, Nurses, crucial medical gear, and advanced aviation equipment. Air transports may be utilized in situations where every moment can mean the difference between life and death; air trans ports may also be utilized when the patient needs transfer to a spe cialized, or closer to home, facil ity. ANYS specialized Helicopter Flight Paramedics Program fo cuses on advanced air medical services. The program provides
training for paramedics in helicop ter operations, emphasizes critical care skills for high-stress environ ments, enhances teamwork be tween ground and air medical teams, offers hands-on experience with aviation safety protocols, and flight paramedics are prepared to handle emergency rapid patient transport. Just like street-level am bulance crews, every air crew member must always be ready to, literally, fly into action. Although fewer than EMS street level, there are services which provide the faster air trans port in NYS. The following crite ria is recommended when considering use of an air medical service: The patient’s condition is a “life or limb” threatening situa tion demanding intensive multidis ciplinary treatment and care. This may include but not be limited to : Patients with physical findings de fined in the adult and pediatric major trauma protocols; Critically ill medical patients requiring care at a specialized center to include, but not be limited to: acute stroke or ST elevation MI as defined by NYS protocol; and/or Patients in cardiac arrest who are not hy pothermic should be excluded from these criteria. One Air Ambulance Company, LifeNet, explains, “In the NY pro gram, we operate 10 helicopters and 1 airplane. Our flight crews bring critical care directly to the patient, whether on a scene or in a hospital, and quickly deliver them to a specialty center that can man age their condition. Each aircraft is staffed 24/7 with a pilot, a flight paramedic, and a flight nurse. Our highly experienced pilots undergo rigorous training to qualify in their assigned aircraft and regularly demonstrate proficiency to main tain their credentials. Our clini cians are trained well above their standard scope of practice as nurses and paramedics. Each are specially qualified as critical care providers.” Dispatch, Police, Fire or EMS will evaluate the situation/condition and if necessary, may place the helicopter/plane on standby.
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One Transported from Rollover Crash in New Windsor NEW WINDSOR, NY - New Windsor Police were dispatched to a two-vehicle rollover on State Route 747 around 1:00 p.m. on January 12th. On arrival, both drivers were out of their vehicles. One vehicle was on its roof on the east side of Route 747, and the second vehicle was on the west side. Town of New Windsor EMS transported one driver to Montefiore St. Luke’s Hospital. Coldenham Fire Department was dispatched and checked both vehicles for hazards. New York State Police assisted at the scene. New Windsor Police are investigating the cause.
COEYMANS HOLLOW VOLUNTEER FIRE CORP.
Cat Safely Rescued from Tree in Coeymans Hollow COEYMANS HOLLOW, NY - On January 24th at approximately 11:30 a.m., the Coeymans Hollow Volunteer Fire Corp re sponded to assist with an animal rescue after receiving a re quest from the Albany County Sheriff’s Office regarding a cat stuck high in a tree. After Chief Haight arrived to evaluate the situation, more units were asked to assist with the operation. After being called in, the Ravena Fire Department set up Lad der 26-70 to reach the animal. The cat was safely rescued from the tree by a Ravena firefighter. After the cat was placed on the ground, members of the Ravena Rescue Squad helped by of fering blankets and warming packs.
March, 2026
1STResponder Newspaper - NY
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March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
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emergency responders lost in the line of duty
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COLUMNISTS Rick Billings (Cartoon) Bob Long (Cartoon) John Malecky (Apparatus, Bookshelf) Didymus McHugh (Chaplain's Corner) Fernando Villicana (Chaplain's Corner)
CORRESPONDENTS Jeffrey Arnold • Parker Austin • John Bechtold • Jeffrey Belschwinder • Brian Berkey • David Bums • Mike Carey • Mlichael Contaxis • Jeff Crianza • Russell Curley • Vinnie Dominick • Patrick D’Onofrio • Bob Faugh • Bradley Fowler • John Greco • Paul Harrington • Gary Hearn • Ron Jeffers • Lany Kensinger • Bob Krajicek • Connor Krueger • Jeff Levine • Stan De
South Dakota: Nicholas "Nick" Van Dam, 37 Rank: Captain Incident Date: July 26, 2025 Death Date: July 26, 2025 Fire Department: Murdo Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: While responding to the War Creek Fire (Jones County, South Dakota) in a 2,000-gallon ten der, Captain Nicholas Van Dam was involved in a motor vehicle accident. Captain Van Dam was ejected from the vehicle as it left the roadway and rolled. Captain Van Dam sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced de ceased at the scene.
Long • Chuck Lowe • Tom Mlarra • Bob McCormick • Randy Mbntour • Tricia Mlood • William Mlurray • Mlark Picemo • Charlie Piper • David Ra~ gusa • John Rieth • Frank Robinson • Bob Root • Chris Sabella • Mlichael 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 of correspondents or columnists! 1st Responder Newspaper welcomes submissions by our readers. Send stories and photos to us at 1Ard 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 wash 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
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Florida: Jairus Hodge, 26 Rank: Firefighter/Paramedic Incident Date: July 21, 2025 Death Date: July 22, 2025 Fire Department: St. Lucie County Fire District Initial Summary: While on duty on July 21, 2025, Fire fighter/Paramedic Jairus Hodge became ill and was sent home. The following day on July 22, 2025, while at his home, Firefighter/Paramedic Hodge felt worse and called for help. Firefighter/Paramedic Hodge was trans ported to a local hospital where he later passed away. The cause of death has yet to be determined. Texas: Michael Eugene Phillips, 66 Rank: Chief Incident Date: July 5, 2025 Death Date: July 5, 2025 Fire Department: Marble Falls Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: Chief Michael Phillips went missing while responding to a call for service on July 5, 2025, during severe storms and flooding that impacted central Texas. The emergency vehicle Chief Phillips was driv ing was swept off the roadway by floodwaters. The vehi cle was later discovered, but Chief Phillips was not located with it. After days of searching, the Marble Falls Area Volunteer Fire Department announced the end of watch for Chief Phillips on July 15, 2025.
Pennsylvania: Ed Margavich, 80 Rank: Fire Police Captain Incident Date: Aug. 8, 2025 Death Date: Aug. 15,2025 Fire Department: Third District Volunteer Fire Company Initial Summary: On August 8, 2025, Fire Police Captain Ed Margavich responded with the Third Dis trict Volunteer Fire Company to a vehicle fire that spread to a house. After directing traffic at the scene for a while, Fire Police Captain Margavich was walk ing to a nearby fire station to get additional equip ment when he fell and broke his femur. He was transported to a trauma center and underwent emer gency surgery. Due to complications related to the in jury, however, Fire Police Captain Margavich passed away on August 15, 2025. New Hampshire: Christopher "Brownie" E. Brown, 42 Rank: Captain Incident Date: Aug. 18, 2025 Death Date: Aug. 19, 2025 Fire Department: Northwood Fire Rescue Initial Summary: On the evening of August 18, 2025, Captain Christopher Brown participated in forcible entry training with Northwood Fire Rescue. At 3:12 p.m. on August 19,2025, Captain Brown called the fire station to report that he was in severe back pain and requested an ambulance. Captain Brown was transported to a local hospital where his condition worsened rapidly. Although CPR and other lifesaving measures were initiated, Cap tain Brown was pronounced deceased. The cause of death has yet to be determined.
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
March, 2026
PAGE 7
Second Alarm Garage Fire Contained in Town of Greenfield GREENFIELD, NY - The Ballston Spa Fire Department and the Greenfield Fire District were called to a reported structure fire in the Town of Greenfield on the evening of January 6th. According to early accounts, there was a burning car inside an ad joining garage. On arrival, the chief re quested a second alarm. The fire was contained to the garage area when the first-arriving engine company deployed handlines and put out the majority of the flames. Only smoking condi tions caused damage to the house. For around two hours, crews worked to finish overhaul, venti lation, and suppression tasks. Mu tual aid assistance was provided by South Glens Falls Fire Com pany, Saratoga Springs Fire De partment, Wilton Fire Department, Corinth Fire Depart ment, Rock City Falls Fire De partment, and Greenfield EMS.
- Courtesy of Greenfield Fire District
GREENFIELD FIRE DISTRICT
GREENFIELD FIRE DISTRICT
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March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
MEMORIAL BOARD If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Memorial Board” feature please upload them on our website www.lRBN.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com
On January 4th, Hillcrest Fire Company No. 1 announced the deaths of two previous chiefs who had spent many years serv ing the department and the community. Robert Murdock Sr., a life member and former chief, died on December 26th after a protracted illness. At the time of his death, he lived in Florida. Murdock was a long-time department employee and the father of former Chief Robert Murdock Jr., who also worked at Hillcrest. The evening before the announcement, John Meyer, the former Chief, Trustee, and 69-year Life Member, died. Meyer was the departm ent's oldest living former chief, and his job as a trustee allowed him to stay involved. GRAND ISLAND FIRE COMPANY
GRAND ISLAND FIRE COMPANY
GRAND ISLAND FIRE COMPANY
Grand Island Fire Company Installs 2026 Officers, Honors Service and Achievement GRAND ISLAND, NY - The Grand Island Fire Company held its 2026 Installation Dinner on Jan uary 18th, formally swearing in its elected firematic and administrative officers while recogniz ing outstanding service and dedication among its members. Surrounded by family, guests, and fellow volunteers, officers reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the Grand Island commu nity. Former Town Councilman Christian Bahleda served as the installing official and was pre sented with an American flag in appreciation of his support and assistance with contract negotiations. The evening also highlighted numerous awards recognizing exceptional training, leadership, and service, underscoring the company’s continued commitment to professional ism, teamwork, and community safety. HILLCREST FIRE COMPANY NO. 1
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
March, 2026
PAGE 9
Massive Commercial Fire Engulfs Kathryn Allen Building in Troy TROY, NY - On January 4, 2026, at 3:12 AM, Engine Four re sponded to 6 102nd Street for a re ported fire alarm. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy smoke and immediately transmit ted a Signal 30 for a working structure fire, followed by a sec ond alarm due to the size of the commercial building and fire showing from multiple sides and the roof. Units responding included En gine One, Engine Two, Engine Six, Truck One, Truck Two, the Rescue Squad, Medic Three, Medic Four, the Battalion Chief, Watervliet Arsenal Fire Depart ment, Green Island Fire Depart ment, and the City of Watervliet Fire Department. Engine Four ac cessed the building via the Knox Box and encountered heavy black smoke. Firefighters connected to a hydrant at 2nd Avenue and 102nd Street as fire broke through the Charlie and Delta sides of the building near the playground. Eland lines were immediately de ployed while truck companies po sitioned strategically and water supplies were established. Fire conditions worsened quickly, with smoke showing from all sides and fire pushing through
Jump to f il e # 0 1 2 3 2 6 1 5 0
fab 3P the roof in multiple locations. Truck crews reported heavy fire around rooftop air conditioning units. Command declared defen sive operations. Mutual aid units established water supply lines, in cluding a supply from Watervliet Arsenal’s engine down Sixth Av enue. Master stream operations were initiated as fire spread through the roof, but water supply issues arose due to an undersized 8-inch main feeding two truck companies. Firefighters used multiple 21/2-inch hand lines to attack the Delta side while fire blew through the roof in the rear. Foam insulation pouring from the ceiling created hazardous conditions resembling burning gasoline. On the Alpha-Delta corner, fire consumed entire rooms, and roof collapse was reported. Fire pushed from the Charlie-Bravo side, with insulation and fire spreading rapidly through offices. A rooftop air conditioning unit collapsed, sending a massive plume of black smoke. At the 70minute mark, three master
streams, six hand lines, and multi ple ground monitors were in oper ation. Fire continued to extend through side doors and windows, with heavy smoke and embers fill ing the sky. Snow and freezing temperatures caused water to freeze on streets and equipment. National Grid secured power for safety. By 9:35 AM, the bulk of the heavy fire was under control. Fire fighters focused on hotspots and overhaul, with relief crews arriv ing after over seven hours of oper ations. The Focal 86 Troy Firefighters Union provided cof fee, donuts, and bananas to crews. Command requested the New York State Department of Home land Security’s Office of Fire Pre vention and Control fire investigators. No injuries were re ported. The Kathryn Allen Build ing, owned by Unity Flouse of Troy, was used for non-residential domestic and sexual violence services. The fire had likely gained a significant head start be fore the alarm system activated. The building did not have a sprin kler system, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
- JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER/SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY
Troy Firefighters using a 2-and-1/2-inch line to knock down heavy fire from the front windows.
JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER/SI DEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY
Heavy fire throughout the building as Troy Fire Department's Truck 1 goes to work.
JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER/SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY
Foam that caught fire pouring down on to a blitz fire in the rear door.
PAGE 10
March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
Firefighters Battle House Fire in Richmond Amid Freezing Temperatures RICHMOND, NY - Around 6:00 p.m., January 20th, Honeoye and Bristol fire departments re sponded to a house fire at 5109 Pinewood Hill Road in the town of Richmond. Firefighters arrived on loca tion and found a working fire in a residential structure that was un occupied and undergoing renova tions. Mutual aid was requested to the scene from Naples, Cheshire, Livonia (FAST) and Livonia EMS (Rehab Unit), and the Ontario County mobile air unit (Truck 35). Firefighting efforts were ham
pered by multiple layers of roof ing material under a metal roof, as well as air temperatures in the sin gle digits. East Bloomfield firefighters provided a stand-by at the Ho neoye fire station. Officials from Ontario County Emergency Man agement were investigating the cause. No injuries were reported.
-JEFFREY ARNOLD
JEFFREY ARN0L0/@FIREPHOT025
JEFFREY ARN0LD/@FIREPHOT025
Submitting photos and press releases is EASY! Register at www.1rbn.com to begin posting directly. Prefer emails? Email your press release and photos directly to lindsey@1 strespondernews. com
JEFFREY ARN0LD/@FIREPH0T025
March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
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March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
IN SERVICE If y o u have photos you w ould like to see in our In S endee feature, please upload them on our w ebsite w w w .lstR esponderN ew s.com o r em ail them to L indsey@ lstR esponderN ew s.com .
BOB MCCORMICK
Two-Vehicle Crash in Newburgh Injures One NEWBURGH, NY - On January 24th, Orange Lake Fire De partment responded to a two-vehicle MVA with injuries on Meadow Hill Road. Town of Newburgh Police were on scene, and Town of Newburgh EMS transported one driver to Montefiore St. Luke’s Hospital. Firefighters secured both vehicles and applied speedy dry to roadway fluids to reduce hazards. Meadow Hill Road was temporarily closed during the inci dent. New York State Police assisted at the scene, and Town of Newburgh Police are investigating the cause.
FRANK ROBINSON
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March, 2026
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MEMORIAL BOARD I f y o u r departm ent has photos yo u w ould like to see in our “M em orial B oard” feature please upload them on our w ebsite w w w .lR B N .com o r em ail them to Lindsey@ lstR esponderN ew s.com
BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT MOURNS THE LOSS OF CAPTAIN SCOTT JANOWSKI
DOYLE VOLUNTEER HOSE COMPANY NO. 2
January 18, 2026 — The Buf falo Fire Department an nounced with deep sad n ess the passing of Captain Scott Janowski, a respected mem ber of the departm ent w hose service and dedication left a lasting impact on colleagues
and the community he served. Fire officials extended heart felt condolences to Captain Janow ski’s family, friends, and fellow firefighters during this difficult time. Out of re spect for his loved ones, the department has requested pri
vacy a s they grieve, noting that additional information will be shared when appropriate. Captain Janowski’s loss is felt ac ro ss the Buffalo Fire De partm ent and throughout the fire service community.
Doyle Volunteer Hose Company No. 2 Recognizes Top 10 Responders of 2025 CHEEKTOWAGA, NY - Doyle Volunteer Hose Company No. 2 honored its Top 10 Responders of 2025 during the depart ment’s annual Installation Dinner held in January, recogniz ing members who demonstrated outstanding dedication and commitment to service throughout the year. The honorees were acknowledged for their high response numbers, profes sionalism, and continued willingness to answer the call for their community. Department leadership thanked all mem bers for their service, noting that volunteer efforts like these remain vital to ensuring public safety and emergency readi ness in the year ahead.
JEFFREY ARN0LD/@ FIREPHOT025
HOMER FIRE DEPARTMENT
Homer Units Respond to SingleVehicle Roadway Incident JEFFREY ARN0LD/@ FIREPHOT025
HOMER, NY - The Homer Fire Department was called to the vicinity of Foster Road and Route 90 in response to a com plaint of an airbag-deployed car plunging into a ditch on Jan uary 7th. Units 562 and 502 of Homer Fire/Rescue arrived on the scene. Crews found one car off the road when they ar rived. Firefighters made sure the car was stable, guarded the area, and looked for potential dangers. One subject was transported for additional medical evaluation after EMS per sonnel assessed the occupant. In order to safeguard respon ders and oncoming drivers during operations, traffic control was implemented.
Garbage Truck Fire in Avon AVON, NY - Shortly after noon on January 16th, Avon firefighters responded to a garbage truck on fire in the parking lot of Kraft Heinz on Wadsworth Avenue in the village. Prior to ar rival of firefighters, the driver had dumped the burning contents of the truck onto the pave ment. The fire was extinguished with no damage to the truck, and no injuries were reported. Also assisting at the scene were Livingston County EMS, Avon Police and Livingston County Emergency Management.
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March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
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@l stResponderNews.com.
VINNIE DOMINICK BOSTON VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT
In January, members of the Boston Volunteer Fire Department took time to strengthen camaraderie and community spirit, stepping away briefly from daily responsibilities to enjoy a team gathering while also continuing their commitment to service.
EVANS CENTER VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY
Evans Center Vol. Fire Co. members were dispatched in January to provide mutual aid assistance to the North Evans Fire District at a structure fire in the hamlet of Highland.
Submitting photos and press releases is EASY! Register at www.1rbn.com to begin posting directly. Prefer emails? Email your press release and photos directly to lindsey@1strespondernews.com
BOB MCCORMICK
Structure Fire at Newburgh Deli Sends Male to Hospital w ith Burn Injuries NEWBURGH, NY - On January 19th, Winona and Orange Lake Fire Departments responded to a structure fire at 165 South Plank Road, the NY Hometown Deli. Units arrived to find a male subject outside the building with burns. Town of Newburgh EMS transported the individual to Montefiore St. Luke’s Hospital. A second alarm was sounded, bringing mutual aid from Good Will, Cronomer Valley, Coldenham, New Windsor, City of Newburgh, and Vails Gate Fire Depart ments. Firefighters gained entry to the building, knocked down the fire, and used hand lines and ground ladders. Deputy Orange County Fire Coordinator 36-13 was on scene, and the Town of Newburgh Fire Inspector was requested. Central Hudson was also called to the scene. Town of Newburgh temporarily closed State Route 52 while operations were ongoing. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
PAGE 15
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March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
Genoa Crews Extricate Occupant Following NY Route 90 Crash GENOA, NY - The Genoa Volunteer Fire Department, South ern Cayuga Instant Aid, Inc., and automatic mutual aid from the King Ferry Fire Department were sent by Cayuga County 911 shortly after noon on Janu ary 12th in response to a reported serious two-vehicle colli sion on NY Route 90, between East Venice Road and McAllister Road. Cars 1, 2 and 3, Engine 2, and Res cue 1 were Genoa's response. Within four minutes. Car 2 arrived, verified that there was a major entrapment, and asked for an all-hands activation. The request was granted for a medical helicop ter from EifeNet of New York 712. About 30 minutes after dis patch, crews finished extricating one occupant from the car, stabi lized both vehicles, and treated pa tients. The truck driver refused to receive medical care. The New York State Police, Morey's Tow ing, and the Cayuga County Sher iffs Office provided assistance on the scene. Fire units helped with traffic control until late afternoon, after which the incident was given over to state police.
- Courtesy of Genoa Volunteer Fire Department
GENOA VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT
GENOA VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
March, 2026
PAGE 17
JEFFREY ARN0LD/@ FIREPH0T025
Mobile Home Fire in Fayette FAYETTE, NY- On Saturday evening, January 31st, firefighters from Fayette, Waterloo, Romulus, Varick and North Seneca Ambulance responded to a mobile home fire at 1470 Route 336 in Fayette, Seneca County.
GUILDERLAND FIRE DEPARTMENT
Guilderland Fire Controls Trailer Fire on Western Avenue GUILDERLAND, NY - On January 18th, the Guilderland Fire Department reported a working trailer fire that had happened the previous evening at 2460 Western Avenue, Lot 11. Mem bers were dispatched at 9:19 p.m. after receiving reports of significant smoke emanating from the residence. Upon ar rival, workers discovered a working fire and commenced sup pression efforts. The fire was brought under control and restricted to the trailer from which it originated. The Guilderland Center Fire Department, Fort Hunter Fire Department, and Rotterdam District 2 Fire Department all gave mutual aid, as did the Guilderland Police Department, Guilderland EMS, the Guilderland Investigation Team, and National Grid. The Westmere Fire Department handled station coverage.
MARGARETVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT
Dual Emergencies Challenge Margaretville Fire and EMS Teams MARGARETVILLE, NY Two major occurrences that hap pened simultaneously were han dled by the Margaretville Fire Department on Jan uary 2nd. A team under the command of Captain M. Cammer responded to a big structure fire in the Stamford Fire District using En gine 2312 and Tanker 2351 as mu tual aid. Margaretville Hospital Am bulance sent Margaretville Am bulance 2362 with ALS support to a traumatic injury at Ski Plattekill concurrently. After a patient evaluation revealed that a medical helicopter was required, firemen, with the town constable's help, set up a landing zone at the commu nity helipad. The department of fered ambulance mutual aid coverage while units were com mitted until all equipment was back in working order. The synchronized response showed coordination and person nel adaptability.
- Courtesy of Margaretville Fire Department
MARGARETVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT
PAGE 18
March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
Firefighters Battle M ulti-Alarm M iddle Hope Condo Fire in Extreme Cold MIDDLE HOPE, NY - On February 8th, at approximately 11:35 PM, Middle Hope Fire De partment and additional units were dispatched to the Parr Valley Con dominiums for a report of smoke in the structure. While responding, OC911 advised Car 2 that multiple calls were coming in reporting a fire with possible people trapped. Car 2 requested a second alarm to bring in additional mutual aid. Upon arrival. Car 2 encoun tered heavy fire on the first and second floors of the A/B side of the structure. Further investigation revealed no persons were trapped, though unfortunately, a few pets were. Multiple hose lines and the deck gun from Engine 338 were deployed, successfully knocking down a large portion of the fire. However, the building had no fire protection within the construction
Jump to f il e # 0 2 1 0 2 6 1 3 6
I 3 P and contained numerous void spaces, which allowed the fire to travel to areas that were not easily accessible. Command requested a third alarm to bring in additional manpower. Firefighters endured 10°F temperatures, with winds creating even harsher conditions and extreme ice hazards. One civilian was transported by EMS for evaluation. Several firefighters slipped on ice, but no injuries were reported. We extend our gratitude to all members and mutual aid compa nies who were either on scene or stood by in our quarters and helped put us back in service. De spite the challenging conditions, the operation was completed
safely and without injury. Mutual Aid and Supporting Departments: Beacon Professional Firefighters IAFF, Castle Point Professional Firefighters, City of Newburgh Firefighters IAFF Local 589, Cronomer Valley Fire Department, Dan Leghorn Engine Company, Orange Lake, Good Will Fire Department, Marlboro Firefighters, New Windsor Fire Department, Plattekill Fire De partment, Stewart ANGB Fire De partment, Storm King Engine Company #2, Winona Lake Fire Engine Company 2, Newburgh NY, Town of Newburgh Emer gency Medical Services, Town of Newburgh Police Department, Town of Newburgh Fire Investiga tors
- MIDDLE HOPE FIRE DEPT.
BOB MCCORMICK
BOB MCCORMICK
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
March, 2026
PAGE 19
Quick Response Saves Wellsville Laundromat from Major Fire WELLSVILLE, NY - On Jan uary 21st, at 10:10 a.m., the Wellsville NY Vol. Fire Depart ment responded to a reported structure lire at the Pine Street Laundromat. Fire lighters arrived to find an active fire and thick smoke in side the building. Command requested a second alarm to deploy more re sources to the scene. As crews began their activities, occupants upstairs were evacuated. Firefighters quickly identified the cause of the fire and restricted it to a single dryer, preventing it from spreading to the remainder of the building. Wellsville units re sponded to the area alongside mu tual-aid departments from Andover, Willing, and Allentown, as well as an air truck and FAST team. The Wellsville Police De partment, Wellsville Ambulance Corps, Allegany County fire coor dinators, Wellsville Village Elec tric, National Fuel, and Allegany County 911 all offered assistance. The event was stabilized with no reported injuries, and the business was saved from additional harm.
- COURTESY OF WELLSVILLE NYVFD
WELLSVILLE NY VOL. FIRE DEPARTMENT
Deposit Fire Department Quickly Contains Shed Fire in Town of Sanford SANFORD, NY - Early on Tuesday morning, January 13th, members of the De posit Fire Depart ment responded to a reported shed fire in the Town of Sanford J um p to fiie # in collaboration with 020326163 Eastern Broome Emergency Serv ices. Firefighters ar rived to discover the ■ & f k shed completely de stroyed. Before the fire spread to neighboring structures, crews were able to contain it by swiftly de ploying handlines. Engine 22 and Pumper-Tanker 22 were among the responding De posit equipment, and Eastern Broome Ambulance 8422 offered EMS assistance. The Windsor Fire Department responded with a pumper-tanker as part of automatic mutual aid because the event took place in a rural, non-hydrant re gion. While additional water sup ply was not required, having tanker resources on scene ensured crews were prepared if conditions changed. No injuries were re ported.
i
- COURTESY OF DEPOSIT FIRE DEPARTMENT DEPOSIT FIRE DEPARTMENT
PAGE 20
March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
Fire Departments Respond to Elevated CO Readings at Hinsdale Plaza HINSDALE, NY - On January 25th at 5:44 p.m., the Hinsdale Vol unteer Fire Department was sum moned to Northern Lights Plaza to investigate a reported fume and odor. Hinsdale Engine 8, under the direction of Assistant Chief Culkin,
arrived to discover that a business had not been evacuated. Crews arrived and discovered a fully occupied restaurant with ele vated amounts of carbon monoxide throughout the building. Firelight ers began evacuating people while
Jum p to f il e # 0 2 0 6 2 6 1 1 9
m investigating the cause of the ab normal readings. Hinsdale Rescue 5 came shortly thereafter to help
operations. Due to the conditions, com mand requested additional re sources, including Lyncourt Volunteer Fire Department Truck 2, Liverpool Fire Department Engine 2, and a standby ambulance from
Navac. Town Code Enforcement also responded. Crews operated on scene until clearing at approxi mately 7:37 p.m.
-COURTESYOF HINS DALE VOLUNTEER FD
HINSDALE VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT
Genoa Firefighters Celebrate Service, Awards, and Fellowship GENOA, NY - In January, Dugan's Country Grill hosted the Genoa Volunteer Fire Department's annual winter dinner, which brought together 75 active, social, and life members for an afternoon of cele bration and cama raderie. A total of 220 years of service were recognised by seven members: Roger Conner for 60 years, Mike Shurtleff for 40 years, John and Mark Conner for 35 years, Joe Doeing for 20 years, and Brandon White and Riley Shurtleff for 15 years. Lorin Cornell was named the 2025 top responder. Mike Shurtleff received the Chiefs Award, Charlie Nesbit received the President's Award, and Mark Con ner received the Firelighter of the Year award. The department also thanked the GFD Ladies’Auxiliary for con tinued support and the King Ferry Fire Department for district cover age. Officials urged new members to think about volunteering and em phasised the value of family tradi tion in the fire department.
- COURTESY OF GENOA VOLUNTEER FD
GENOA VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
March, 2026
PAGE 21
Multi-Building Fire on Garfield Place in Albany Quickly Contained by Firefighters ALBANY, NY - On Decem ber 12, 2025, at 8:22 PM, multi ple calls were received reporting a structure fire at 13 Garfield Place. Engine One, Engine Seven, Engine Ten, Truck Three, Truck Two, Rescue One, the Rescue Squad, the Battalion Chief, and Mohawk Am bulance Service re sponded. Police arrived first, report ing heavy fire in the rear and multiple buildings involved, and began evacuating occupants. Based on the initial report, the Battalion Chief transmitted a Sig nal 30. Engine Seven confirmed heavy fire on both sides of the primary structure and requested a second alarm. Engine Two, En gine Eleven, Truck Four, and Rescue Two responded. Firefight ers established water supply, de ployed hand lines, and aggressively attacked the rear fire. The fire extended to neigh boring buildings at 15, 17, and 19 Garfield Place, with attic and structural involvement. Primary searches confirmed all occupants were safely out, though firefight ers faced extreme heat, heavy smoke, and structural collapse in parts of the buildings. Truck One was requested to provide a rapid intervention crew. Additional hy drants were secured to supply master streams and deck guns. One victim was transported by Mohawk Ambulance Service. Fire conditions worsened in attics and walls, prompting temporary evacuations of firefighters while master streams and roof ventila tion were used to knock down heavy fire. Mutual aid from Watervliet. Green Island, and Watervliet Arsenal Fire Departments assisted in the operation, with ad ditional rapid intervention crews established. Firefighters continued interior and exterior operations, success fully containing the fire, conduct ing extensive overhaul, and chasing hotspots until late morn ing. No injuries were reported. Fire investigators are currently working to determine the cause, which has not yet been released.
JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER/SIDEWINDER PHOTOGRAPHY
Albany firefighters work on scene as heavy smoke pushes from three buildings on Garfield Place.
- JEFFREY BELSCHWINDER
JEFFREY BELSCHWIHDER/SIDEWIHDER PHOTOGRAPHY
JEFFREY BELSCHWIHDER/SIDEWIHDER PHOTOGRAPHY
An Albany Firefighter puts water in the second floor of the main fire building.
Heavy fire breaks through the front of the building along with the attic.
PAGE 22
March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
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1st Responder Newspaper - NY
March, 2026
PAGE 23
Hinsdale Units M itigate Fuel Hazard at Interstate On-Ramp H IN SD A L E, N Y - A t 10:15 a.m. on January 25th, the H in s dale V olunteer Fire D epartm ent responded to a re^ ported m otor vehicle accident on the 1-90 onram p from southbound Inter- J u m p to f iie # state 81. The initial 0 2 0 6 2 6 1 1 8 dispatch reported 1 no injuries, b u t a suspected autom obile fire. H insdale & E ngine 8 and R es cue 5 arrived to find a single v e hicle involved, w ith no fires. C rew s discovered a m ajor fuel spill and m ade efforts to seal the area and m inim ize risks to traffic and responders. Traffic conditions w ere im pacted as units tried to contain the spill and m ake the area safe.
- COURTESY OF HINSDALE VOLUNTEER FD
HINSDALE VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT
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PAGE 24
March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
'Kw'jka
PROVIDED
Members of the Wassaic Fire Rescue "The Blue Crew" delivered 5 pounds of aluminum tabs to UVFD in December. 2nd Asst. Chief Travis Floyd noticed our campaign on social media a year ago and had his crew start saving tabs, and as a surprise delivered them to us to help out Ronald McDonald House Charities. Pictured L-R: Wassaic FD Junior Firefighter Nathan Monty, Union Vale FD PIO Kathy Welsh, Wassaic FD 2nd Asst. Chief Travis Floyd.
Local Fire Company Picks Up the Tab UNION VALE, NY - The Union Vale Fire Company began collecting aluminum beverage tabs for Ronald McDonald House Charities in Albany the end of 2024. To date, 169 pounds of alu minum tabs have been collected for the charity. Union Vale Fire District Pub lic Information Officer Kathy Welsh has partnered with the East ern District Home Bureau of NYS Federation of Home Bureau Inc. which includes Home Bureau Eastern District Chairperson Alice Dickson, Dutchess County Home Bureau Chairperson Anne Christ mas, and Eastern District/Dutchess County Home Bureau Community Service Chairperson Marie Elliott to col lect aluminum tabs for Ronald McDonald House Charities. Welsh said, “When I heard the Home Bureau was collecting alu minum tabs for a worthy cause, it occurred to me that we could help to collect even more aluminum tabs and invite the public to par ticipate.” And the public has come through in flying colors! “For example, 2nd Asst. Chief Travis Floyd of Wassaic Fire Res cue "The Blue Crew" noticed our campaign on social media and de cided they would collect tabs for us,” said Welsh. As a surprise in December 2025, they delivered 5 pounds of tabs right to the fire-
DEPOSIT FIRE DEPARTMENT
FIR E TR UC K
to f il e # 0 2 1 0 2 6 1 5 5
a I * house! “These tabs will be given to the Ronald McDonald House in Albany to help with their heating expenses. We are very grateful to Kathy Welsh, the fire department, and the entire community for part nering with us and helping to sup port this project,” said Community Service Chairperson Marie Elliott. Elliott added, “As a result of Dutchess County sharing this col laborative effort at a state meet ing, other areas have begun to initiate their own collaborations to benefit their local Ronald McDon ald houses.” Welsh said the fire company will continue their campaign. As a courtesy, and for the public’s con venience, there is a drop-off con tainer at the Union Vale Town Hall, 249 Duncan Road, where the public can bring their aluminum tabs Monday through Thursday, 9 am to 4 pm. “We are very happy to help the Eastern District Home Bureau of NYS to ultimately help Ronald McDonald House Charities,” said Welsh.
- KATHY WELSH
DEPOSIT FIRE DEPARTMENT
Deposit Fire Department Holds Ribbon Cutting and Open House fo r New Station 2 DEPOSIT, NY - On January 24th, members of the Deposit Fire Department participated in a ribbon cutting ceremony and open house at the new Town of Sanford Highway Facility and Deposit Fire & Rescue Station 2. Residents were given the opportunity to visit the facility and learn about how the project will support operations and service delivery.
March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
PAGE 25
DRIIIS/TRAINING To s e e y o u r D rills in th e n e w s p a p e r u p lo a d th e m o n o u r w e b s ite w w w .ls tR e sp o n d e rN e w s .c o m o r em a il th e m to L in d se y @ ls tR e sp o n d e rN e w s .c o m
ARKPORT HOSE CO. #1 INC.
CITY OF GENEVA, NY: FIRE DEPARTM ENT
In January, the Hornell Area Chiefs meeting, which brought together fire departm ent chiefs from throughout the area, w as held at Arkport Hose Co. #1 Inc. The confer ence, which alternates between local agencies, offers a chance to exchange updates, talk about operations, and plan regional initiatives. The introduction of a new call reporting system was the main subject of discussion. Every incident will be recorded into a com puter-based system under the revised procedure, along with thorough docum entation detailing the ste p s taken and the results. The system is designed to enhance operational review, reporting accuracy, and recordkeeping. Steuben County Emergency Services, Canisteo Fire Co., Greenwood FD, and Howard FD were among the organizations represented at the meeting.
Members of the City of Geneva Fire Department participated in the Ontario County Ice and Cold Water Rescue class, which w as held in February at Cheshire Fire De partm ent. Six Geneva firefighters participated in the two-day program, which com prised 16 hours of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Firefighters performed the proper rescue techniques and safety protocols for ice and cold water occurrences. Training evolutions em phasized victim approach, rescuer safety, and the usage of specialist equipm ent usually utilized during winter rescues.
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March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
CONGRATULATIONS
TOWN UNE VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT
Town Line Fire Recognizes Member Service Anniversaries
ELMA VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY
TOWN LINE, NY - The Town Line Volunteer Fire organization honored two members in January as they celebrated signifi cant service anniversaries within the organization. John Palermo has been with the department since January 1991, and he recently marked 35 years. Palermo has worked as an Assistant and Master Mechanic throughout his career, and he has been a Director on the department's Board of Direc tors since January 2023. His work has contributed to fleet readiness and day-to-day operations. Stephen Coffed cele brated 22 years of service, having joined the department in January 2004 after previously working for the Lancaster Fire Department. Coffed has held the grades of Lieutenant and Captain and has served on the Board of Directors since 2012, where he is currently Chairman.
ELMA VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY
Elma Volunteer Fire Company Installs 2026 Officers During New Year Ceremony G0WANDA VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT
Gowanda Vol. Fire Department Hosts Roswell Park Mobile Cancer Screening Unit GOWANDA, NY- On January 8th, the Gowanda Volunteer Fire Department partnered with Roswell Park Comprehensive Can cer Center to bring critical cancer screening resources di rectly to the community by hosting Roswell Park’s early detection mobile trailer at the fire hall. The visit provided local residents with convenient access to cancer screening serv ices, reinforcing the importance of early detection in improv ing outcomes and saving lives. Department members expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to support public health efforts and to help connect the community with lifesaving preventive care, emphasizing that early detection remains one of the strongest tools in the fight against cancer.
ELMA, NY - In January, the Elma Volunteer Fire Company held its annual installation cere mony to formally swear in Com pany Officers for 2026, marking the start of a new year of leader ship and service. The event also included recognition and appreci ation for Dan Wilson, Immediate
Jum p to f il e # 0 1 2 8 2 6 1 3 4
•6
3 ^
Past Chief of the Jamison Road Fire Company, who officiated the installation of members. Department leadership thanked outgoing officers for their
dedication and welcomed incom ing officers as they assume re sponsibility for guiding the company in the year ahead.
- COURTESY OF ELMA VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY
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157 Responder Newspaper - NY
March, 2026
PAGE 27
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.
BOB MCCORMICK
Tractor-Trailer Bollover Shuts Down NYS Thruway NEWBURGH, NY - On January 21 st, Winona Lake Fire Department responded to a rollover trac tor-trailer at mile marker 62.2 southbound on the New York Thruway. Upon arrival, firefighters found the tractor-trailer rolled over in the southbound ditch. Crews checked the vehicle for haz ards and stood by for a heavy-duty wrecker. New York State Police and the Department of Trans portation were on scene. The southwest lane was completely closed during the incident. Town of Newburgh EMS also responded. The New York State Police are investigating the cause.
EUGENE WEBER JR.
HONORS & PROMOTIONS
This patch belongs to the Schenectady Fire Department, located in Schenectady County, NY.
If you have photos you would like to see in our “Honors & Promotions” feature, please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com
Submitting photos and press releases is EASY! Register at www.1rbn.com to begin posting directly. Prefer emails? Email your press release and photos directly to lindsey@1strespondernews.com CITY OF GENEVA FIRE DEPARTMENT
The City of Geneva Fire Department reported that Michael John was sworn in as Fire Commissioner after being elected by the Nester Hose Company. The oath of office was delivered in a ceremony at City Hall. The swearing-in was conducted by Geneva City Clerk Nicole Tillotson, who legally con firmed John's role in directing fire department operations and governance.
PAGE 28
March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
SHARON E. SIEGEL
Huguenot, C uddebackville, M atam oras Fire Departm ents Respond to Upside Down Car in Stream
BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT
Four-Alarm Fire a t Vacant Building in B uffalo Brings Extended Overnight Response BUFFALO, NY - Buffalo Fire Department firefighters responded at approximately 11:09 p.m. Thurs day night, January 16th, to a re ported fire at 468 Emslie Street, where crews encountered heavy fire conditions that ultimately esca lated to a four-alarm response. Firefighters worked for more than seven hours in challenging overnight conditions before bring ing the fire under control at approx-
Jump to f il e # 0 1 2 8 2 6 1 2 2
imately 3:45 a.m. The building was confirmed to be vacant at the time of the incident, and no injuries were reported. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
- COURTESY OF BUFFALO FD
TOWN OF DEERPARK, NY -A n accident on Galley FTill Road in the Town of Deerpark early Sunday morning, January 18th, prompted a call for firefighters, police, and members of local dive teams to assist with an overturned car in water. The location, identified in a motorist’s call for help, was 140 Galley FTill Road, Cuddebackville, NY. The car was found by emer gency responders to be upside down in a tributary that runs down a steep section of Galley FTill Road into the Bashakill wetland, which feeds into the Neversink River. The downhill stream sits at the base of a steep ridge alongside the 400-acre Dragon Springs and Falun Gong Global Eieadquarters. Eiuguenot Fire Company’s 2nd Assistant Chief Jeffrey Conklin, who operated command on scene.
TD FILE # 0 1 1 8 2 6 1 4 3
3P i * said upon arrival responders found the vehicle to be unoccupied. Fie credited Matamoras, PA’s Fire Chief and Dive Team member Matthew McKeon with arriving quickly on scene, already in his cold-water dry suit, and able to enter the water to assist anyone in need of help. Conklin said besides making sure anyone inside was not in jured, hypothermia is always a concern in cold, snowy conditions such as existed at the time of the 6:15 a.m. call. McKeon, however, initially found no one inside or around the vehicle. Reached after the re sponse, McKeon said when he ar rived there was NYS Police
officer on scene. McKeon made his way to the vehicle, broke a window to gain entrance, and found the overturned car to be un occupied. Fie said all of the win dows and doors were closed, but he saw footprints going up a steep incline into the woods on the op posite side of the stream. At that point the call, with no victims in the car or shallow stream. Orange County’s Battalion 8 Water Operations Team was can celled. A woman who arrived on scene said she was uninjured and had made her way out of the car and called for help. Eiuguenot, Cuddebackville, and Matamoras Fire Departments assisted on scene, along with New York State Police.
- SHARON SIEGEL
Additional news from around New York can be found on our website at www.1rbn.com
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March, 2026
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March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
JOBS and the firemen who City of Tonawanda Firefighters Rescue fought them ON THE BOOK SHELF by John Malecky
JOBS and the firemen who fought them By Frank Saia Available from: FSP Books 433 Main Street, Suite 2A Hudson, MA 01749 1-800-522-8528 Email: support@fire-policeems.com www. fire -police -ems .com Price: $60.00 This is a hard cover coffee table book measuring 9 inches by 12 inches, with 217 pages. The author is a correspondent for 1st
Responder News. I do not know him personally, but see his photos in the New Jersey edition of the paper quite often. He is a retired battalion chief from the Camden, NJ Fire Department and has a full page to tell the reader about him self. He is an excellent fire and ap paratus photographer who takes pictures as a labor of love, which will be evident to every reader. A God Fearing Man (after my own heart), the book is entirely of both black and white, as well as color photos of Philadelphia, Camden and other New Jersey towns within the area. Some of the photos in clude single shots of firefighters of all ranks with their names as well as groups of them posing for his camera. Many of the photos name the individuals in them. The pho tos are from all different times. One group is from the Campbell Soup Company which is in Cam den. If you never knew that they had a fire, well they did in 1992 that went to three alarms. Sears
Roebuck, a massive complex in Philadelphia also had a fire in 1994 that went to four alarms. Also, One Meridian Plaza in Philadelphia (1991), in which three firefighters died, is covered. The PFD actually stretched five inch hose into the building under the direction of the fire commis sioner. The story of the “Fire Pole” which originated in Chicago back in the days of horses, is on page 95 along with a photo of the fire pole in Camden E-7’s quarters. He is a family man fully supported by his wife in living his dream, and by his daughter, who is a firefighter/EMT in Westmont where they reside. His daughter is featured in several photos on page 87. If you are fire service oriented, you will enjoy this book where both career and volunteer fire de partments are featured.
Driver Following Vehicle Crash Into Building TONAWANDA, NY - At ap proximately 10:23 a.m. on Janu ary 8th, the City of Tonawanda Fire Department responded to a motor vehicle accident at the in tersection of Young and State Streets involving two vehicles, one of which struck a commercial building. Crews from B-shift ar rived to find one vehicle in the roadway and a second positioned against the structure. Due to limited access to one of the occupants and concerns for potential serious injuries, fire fighters utilized the Jaws of Life from Rescue 4 to safely extricate
Jump to f il e # 0 1 2 8 2 6 1 2 6
3P the patient. One individual was transported to Erie County Med ical Center for further evaluation and treatment. Fire Police units closed Young Street for several hours to ensure scene safety and manage traffic. A post-incident assessment con firmed no structural damage to the building.
- COURTESY OF CITY OF TONAWANDA FD
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RONKONKOMA, NY - On January 20th, the Ronkonkoma Fire Department was activated for a reported house fire on Avenue Court. 5-24-32 arrived on scene and found a small electrical fire on the side of the house. -
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March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
LONG ISLA ADVERTISER
INDEX A guide to finding great companies
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39
CORPORATE INFORMATION
BELLPORT FIRE DEPARTMENT BAYPORT FIRE DEPARTMENT
Bellport Fire Department Responds to Late-Night MVA
1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New York edition - Vol. 28 No. 3 - 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 errors except of
BELSQTO communications, inc.
BELLPORT, NY - On January 29th at approximately 10:37 p.m., the Bellport Fire Department re sponded to a reported multi-vehicle motor vehicle accident at the inter section of Station Road and Farber Drive. Firefighters arrived to find mul tiple vehicles involved and worked swiftly to secure the scene, assess hazards, and assist the injured. One individual was transported to NYU Langone Hospital for further med ical evaluation. The Bellport Fire Department
reprinting that part o f the ad which was omitted or in error. Omissions or errors must be brought to the at tention of the newspaper during the same month of publication. Printed in Canada.
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Ju m p t o f il e # 0 2 1 0 2 6 1 4 9
ft 3^ was assisted on scene by South Country Ambulance and the Suf folk County Police Department. The incident was brought under control following coordinated emergency operations, and traffic safety was restored after responders completed their work.
- COURTESY OF BELLPORT FD
DRILLS/TRAINING
Additional
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BAYPORT FIRE DEPARTMENT
Bayport Crews Quickly Knock Down Garbage Truck Fire BAYPORT, NY - On January 9th around 3:15 p.m., the Bay port Fire Department was called to a garbage truck fire. Firefighters arrived to find the truck emitting thick black sm oke and severe fire conditions. In a short am ount of time, crew s put out a handline, shielded adjacent expo sures, and contained the fire. The event did not result in any reported injuries. To make sure the fire was completely put out and the area was secure, firefighters stayed on the site. Chief 3-14-30 was in charge of all units.
BAYPORT FIRE DEPARTMENT
In February, the Bayport Fire Department hosted advanced ice res cue training as approximately 50 Ice Rescue Technicians from across the Island gathered to pursue Level II certification. The in tensive program builds on foundational rescue skills, focusing on advanced techniques, coordination, and safety in hazardous coldwater and ice conditions.
March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
PAGE 33
LONG ISLA
Jransportatioi PORT WASHINGTON FIRE DEPT.
Port Washington Fire to Build New Training Facility Through Major Donation PORT WASHINGTON, NY - The Port Washington Fire Depart ment announced plans to build a new, modern training facility thanks to a $1 million grant from the Peter and Jeri Dejana Foundation. The organization has agreed to fund the entire project, which will give more hands-on training chances for firemen. The facility will be named in honor of Captain Robert H. Dayton, who was killed in the line of duty on November 26, 1988, during a search and rescue operation on Main Street in Port Washington. Captain Dayton's family joined the depart ment leadership in accepting the donation. The project will support firefighter readiness while honoring the department’s history and service.
RAY SHORE FIRE DEPARTMENT
Bay Shore Fire Department Quickly Controls Tractor-Trailer Brake Fire BAY SHORE, NY - On early Monday morning, January 5th, the Bay Shore Fire Department re sponded to reports of a vehicle fire at the 7-Eleven located on 5th Av enue in Bay Shore. Chief of Depart ment Ippolito arrived on scene within minutes and determined the incident was caused by a mechani cal issue involving the tractor-
t d f ile
#021026143
a» £ » trailer’s braking system. Firefighters from Engines 3-1-6 and 3-1-5 deployed thermal imaging cameras to assess heat conditions and utilized a booster line to safely cool the locked rear trailer brakes.
The coordinated response prevented further hazards, and the situation was brought under control in ap proximately 30 minutes. No injuries were reported, and no additional fire department action was required once the frailer was stabilized.
- COURTESY OF BAY SHORE FIRE DEPARTMENT
WHERE ARE THEY NOW? I f you have photos yo u w ould like to see in our W here are they N ow ? feature please upload them on our website w w w .lstR esponderN ew s.com or em ail them to L indsey@ lstR esponderN ew s.com
PORT WASHINGTON FIRE DEPARTMENT
Unoccupied Vehicle Found After Crash in Port Washington PORT WASHINGTON, NY - On January 17th, the Port Washing ton Fire Department responded to a motor vehicle accident near the intersection of Old Shore Road and Pleasant Avenue. Upon arrival, firemen discovered that the vehicle was vacant. Before the department arrived, the motorist had self-extricated and reported no injuries. Crews secured the situation and in vestigated for potential risks. A communications box and an adjacent utility pole both sustained damage. Verizon and PSE&G were alerted to respond and resolve the utility issues.
FRANK R0RINS0N
North Merrick FD on Long Island once ran this 1994 KME Rescue. The unit is now in service in Sunbury, PA.
PAGE 34
March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
LONG ISLA School Bus and Car C ollide in M astic; One Transported to Hospital MASTIC BEACH, NY — At approximately 9:30 a.m. on Friday, January 16, Mastic Ambulance Company and the Mastic Fire De partment responded to a reported motor vehicle crash involving a school bus and a pas senger car across from Dunkin’ at 490 Mastic Road. Mastic Fire De partment Engine 512-1 and Mastic Ambulance 5-37-18 arrived to find the school bus and car involved in the colli sion. Firefighters secured the vehi cles and addressed roadway hazards while EMS personnel treated the driver of the passenger vehicle in a nearby Dunkin’ parking lot. Fire Police units 5-12-80 and 512-7 assisted Suffolk County Police with traffic control, temporarily closing portions of Mastic Road to protect emergency responders and motorists. Officials confirmed the school bus was not transporting students at the time of the crash. The bus driver was evaluated at the scene and de clined medical treatment. The driver of the passenger vehicle was trans ported by ambulance to a local hos pital for further evaluation and care. The cause of the crash remains under investigation by Suffolk County Police.
JOHN WALTHERS- SUFFOLK FIRE PHOTOS
Mastic Firefighters work to clean up the scene of a crash involving this car and a school bus.
-JOHN WALTHERS
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The school bus involved in the crash sits on the shoulder on the wrong side of the road.
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
March, 2026
PAGE 35
DRILLS/TRAINING To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com
RAY SHORE FIRE DEPARTMENT
Bay Shore Fire Department Swears In Chiefs for the New Year
PORT WASHINGTON FIRE DEPARTMENT
On February 6th, the Port Washington Fire Department performed a regular training practice at Mill Pond.
BAY SHORE, NY - On January 7th, the Bay Shore Fire Department formally swore in its chiefs for the 2026 year during a ceremony conducted by Bay Shore Fire District Chairman of the Board, Commissioner Arnold. The event marked the official appointment of Chief of Department John Ippolito, 1st Assistant Chief Nick Danza, and 2nd Assistant Chief Kyle Voges. Family mem bers, department leadership, and fellow firefighters were present to witness the oath of office, recognizing the responsibility and commitment entrusted to the department’s leadership. The Bay Shore Fire Department extended its congratulations and best wishes to the chiefs as they begin their service for the year ahead.
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March, 2026
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
Letter to a friend Chaplain’s Corner Didymus McHugh
My friend, I know that you have gone through tough times. Your marriage was tough, and it did not last. Some times, we go through this for rea sons that we cannot figure out. I know that many times we hear peo ple say that we should stay together but sometimes we are abused. You have been betrayed by someone that was close to you, and you trusted this person. Many times, we would not want to forgive this person, but you have risen above it and continue to show love to them. I know that you are uncomfort able being around people. I know that at times most if not all of us feel that way one time or another. There are times when we need to be pres ent not only to help others but also ourselves. Someone told you that you did not have the skill or talent to do what you felt in your heart to do. There are people that always try to put us down. Are they jealous or just mean spirited? There are times that if we are willing to learn, we can be very successful. If we let oth ers speak into our lives, we need to make sure that we have the right people, and that includes what we tell ourselves. People who may be challenging may be put into our lives. It is how
we let them affect our lives that re ally matters. You are better than they think. They do not see your true po tential. You may have dreams, while you sleep, that may seem real. Is there something that you need to do that is now eating at you? Or are you seeing something about the future? You get inspiration to do something or a warning. Let's hope we remember what we need to. I watch as you go through your challenges and many times, I see some of the same things that I have lived through. It is when we have walked similar paths that we develop empathy and be there to support one another. I know that at times, you may be depressed and want to give up but I ask you to press on and fight the good fight. Sure, take a little time to lick your wounds and regroup for your next attack on life but don't give up. You have no idea who is watch ing you and what example that you are setting for the person who says nothing but only watches you. You are my dear friend, and I have watched how you have grown. Lean into Psalms. Know that the fight is not over yet because God has not called you home. You still have a mission. Your work is not done. You have not finished effecting people's lives and have not met all the people that God wants you to meet.
PAUSTINFIREPHOTOS
Have faith. God loves you and so do I.
p-T^/A
Blessings,
- 4
Didymus McHugh didymus-mchugh.com
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Working Fire in Wading River Quickly Brought Under Control WADING RIVER, NY - On Sunday, February 15th, the Wading River Fire Department was ac tivated for a reported house fire. Wading River chiefs arrived on scene and had heavy fire showing from the house and quickly reactivated the working fire. All fire was knocked down and the scene was placed under control within one hour.
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
March, 2026
PAGE 37
LONG ISLA Ronkonkoma Firefighters Contain House Fire on Avenue Court RONKONKOMA, NY - On January 20th, the Ronkonkoma Fire Department was activated for a reported house fire on Avenue Court. 5-24-32 arrived on scene and found a small electrical fire on the side of the house. Upon additional investigation, fire was found in the attic, as well as the first and second floors, and the working fire was reactivated. 5-24-12 arrived on scene, stretched two lines and started ex-
TD FILE
#021626141
■& I & tinguishing fire. 5-24-11 arrived on scene with mutual aid, helped extinguish the fire and started pri mary searches. The scene was placed under control within two hours.
- PARKER AUSTIN
PAUSTINFIREPHOTOS PAUSTINFIREPHOTOS
PAGE 38
March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
Alternate Careers in the Fire Service IN THE FIRE ZONE JOSEPH CEA
The first occupation that in evitably comes to mind when thinking of the fire service is fire fighter and for obvious reasons. Firefighter positions are varied and can be divided in a couple different ways. First by separat ing the volunteer from the career side but this title can also be di vided into interior, exterior and wildland. However, once you venture into working with “Old Man Fire” what becomes appar ent is that there are a multitude of other different titles within the fire service. Interestingly enough is that both the public and private sector have an equal claim to alternative fire service careers. Access to these other fire serv ice careers typically start out as firefighters i.e. you would have to train and, in some cases, work as a firefighter before being able to accept other posi tions and responsibilities. This is because being a firefighter provides a solid foundational understanding of fire emergen cies that can then be applied to other positions based also on future training and education. If we are just talking about and starting with career firefighting most if not all of the titles de fined here are just simply ad vancement and not necessarily an “alternate career”. This arti cle, however will focus on de scribing several fire service titles but from the perspective of someone transitioning into the fire service from a previously chosen and different career path. The volunteer fire service is ac tually very good in this regard. Volunteers can not only con tinue in their chosen careers but also be firefighters thus building up training and experience to advance in the fire service. For example, training classes can be taken to advance into several ti tles such as fire instructor, safety officer, fire investigator, fire marshal and fire inspector while still working your “day job”. For the purpose of this ar ticle the titles listed here are based on actual positions within
New York State and may vary slightly in other states. Let’s briefly take a look at a few: Fire Instructor: The primary re sponsibilities being instructing and teaching courses in firefight ing. Typically, instructors are provided with a set curriculum that must be followed. A back ground in education and/or coursework as a fire instructor is required. Most fire instructors are employed at the state or county level. In some states (Pennsylvania comes to mind) fire instructors work out of com munity colleges. Fire Investigator: This title fo cuses on the cause and origin of a fire. Investigators would deter mine if arson was involved as well and possibly testify in court. This can be a public or private sector position with insurance companies hiring within the lat ter. Fire Inspector: Inspectors are in volved in compliance with fire codes. The responsibilities of a fire inspector can also be inte grated in other titles from code enforcement officer to fire pro tection specialists and even parking enforcement officer with respect to ensuring compliance with fire lanes and hydrants. Safety Officer: Individuals work ing under this title would moni tor, assess and mitigate hazardous situations on the fireground ensuring personnel safety Fire Marshal (specific to the New York Racing Association NYRA): The Fire Marshal reports to the NYRA Fire Inspector (Chief) and is responsible for en suring full compliance with Na tional Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards and New York State Building Codes as they pertain to fire safety. Key responsibilities in clude fire prevention and inspec tion, emergency management and response and fire code com pliance and reporting. Fire Coordinator: In NYS each county has a regional coordina tor that manages inspectors, in vestigators and training opportunities. The top position is the only paid position while all other deputy coordinators are volunteer. Dispatcher: Answers emergency
and non-emergency calls, dis patches appropriate resources, communicates with the public and other first responders. They may provide life-saving instruc tions to callers. Maintain accu rate logs of calls, incident times and locations. So, what is the first step? What if you finally decide to take the plunge into the fire service and potentially changing your occu pation or at the very least sup plementing your current career. Start with some online research. Typically, you can find educa tion, training and experience re quirements for a position of interest at your states and/or county fire service website. NYS Fire Coordinators website (NYSFCA.org) along with the NYS As sociation of Fire Chiefs (https://www.nysfirechiefs.com/) are also good starts. Addition ally, the National Fire Academy (https //www. usfa.fema.gov/nfa/) has great information on fire service careers including a num ber of free online courses.
Always a firefighter, Joseph circa 1974 (age 3).
PROVIDED
On the private side visit the Fire Safety Research Institute at https://fsri.org/, Firefighter Asso ciation of the State of New York (Fasny.com) and the New York Racing Association (NYRA.com). For the latter Contact Adam Brement (NYRA Fire Inspector) at 516-408-2924 and/or ABrement@nyrainc.com for more in formation on current positions. Next start making some phone calls. Talk to others that have joined the fire service and/or have used the volunteer fire service to advance and transition their profession. Lastly, visit your local firehouse and talk to an officer to start the ball rolling by applying. Membership in a local volunteer fire company will allow you to start building your fire service resume that will eventually lead to being qualified to apply for any of the listed po sitions and then some. Using my own story, like most kids I had wanted to be a fire fighter but life has a funny way of coming at you sometimes and didn’t become a volunteer until age 46. By then opportunities as a career firefighter had passed me by. Luckily, a passion for the fire service could still be satis fied with other, alternate posi tions. As a volunteer I took classes to build my fire service portfolio to the point of being qualified to work under several
PROVIDED
(L to R): Joseph's fiance, Joseph, and NYRA Fire Marshal JD Cea (Joseph's son). of the titles listed here. Changing careers can be risky as there are so many unknowns and there would a lot of factors to weigh. It can certainly affect your financial situation; retire ment plans as well as personal and family relationships to name
a few. Start by asking yourself “Would I be happier staying in my current career or starting over in the fire service.” Just like on the f ireground though, be de cisive and don’t wait. In the end the fire service represents a number of challenging careers and the risk is worth the reward.
March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
PAGE 39
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PAGE 40
March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
DAVID DDRNS/@FD4D
Bronx Fire & Explosion K ills 1 BRONX, NY - On January 24th, a dispatch was sent for Bronx Box 4399 - 4th Alarm (10-60/1066), for an explosion at 3485 Bivona Street. One person was killed and more than a dozen peo ple were hurt when a gas explosion sparked a massive, four-alarm blaze on the top floors of a high-rise apartment building in the Bronx. Flames shot out of the 16th floor of the building shortly after midnight as firefighters worked to evacuate over 150 units in the building, leaving about 100 people homeless, officials told reporters. A civilian, who has not been publicly iden tified, was pronounced dead, and 14 others were wounded, including one in critical condition, FDNY Chief Kathleen Knuth said.
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STEVE WHITE
3rd Alarm in Staten Island STATEN ISLAND, NY - Firefighters responded on January 31st to 385 Bard Ave. for a reported structure fire. The fire, in a two-and-a-half-story peaked roof, was reported at 1:14 a.m.
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
March, 2026
PAGE 41
DAVID BURNS/@ FD4D DAVID BURNS/@ FD4D
DAVID BURNS/@ FD4D
Minor Injuries Reported in Brooklyn Fire DAVID BURNS/@ FD4D
Brooklyn Warehouse Fire Quickly Escalates to Fourth Alarm BROOKLYN, NY - Box 3810 was transmitted shortly after 12:14 p.m. on January 21st for a fire in an occupied warehouse, at 700 Columbia Street. The fire quickly escalated to a 4th alarm before the FDNY was able to bring it under control. The cause of the fire is under investigation by FDNY Fire Marshals.
BROOKLYN, NY - Brooklyn firefighters were kept busy Wednesday afternoon, February 4th, battling a two-alarm fire at 1099 Halsey Street. First arriving units reported a frozen hydrant and quickly called for additional units, including the transmission of a 2nd alarm. One civilian and one firefighter suffered minor injuries.
Submitting photos and press releases is EASY! Register at www.1rbn.com to begin posting directly. Prefer emails? Email your press release and photos directly to heather@1 strespondernews. com
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March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
STEVE WHITE
DAVID DURNS/@ FD4D
Queens 4th Alarm K ills One and Injures Several QUEENS, NY - New York City’s Bravest were kept busy Monday night, February 9th, responding to a Queens 4th Alarm at 8332 Dongan Avenue that caused extensive damage to several private dwellings and injured several, including one fatality. At the same time, Bronx firefighters were battling a 4th alarm.
STEVE WHITE
Firefighters Escape Collapse During Staten Island House Fire STATEN ISLAND, NY - Firefighters responded to 250 Elverton Ave. at 11:30 p.m. on January 30th to a two-and-a-half-story private dwelling with fire throughout. FDNY members were operating on the 4 side of the building when there was a total collapse. Maydays were transmitted and members escaped from the collapse without injury. Exterior operations were then instituted. There were two civilians injured and two members were sent to the hospital, all with minor injuries.
1st Responder Newspaper - NY
March, 2026
PAGE 43
PATCH OF THE MONTH I f you have photos you w ould like to see in our “Patch o f the m onth “feature please upload them on our w ebsite, w w w .lstR esponderN ew s.com or em ail them to L indsey@ lstR esponderN ew s.com .
These patches belong to FDNY Ladder 15, located in New York County, NY.
FDNY
Three-Alarm Fire Displaces Residents at Brooklyn Apartment Building
EUGENE WEBER JR .
BROOKLYN, NY - Late Saturday night, February 7th, the FDNY responded to a 3-alarm fire at 464 Clinton Avenue in Brooklyn, bringing approximately 45 units and more than 200 firefighters to the scene. Units arrived within minutes and found fire in the walls between the third and fourth floor apartments, which ultimately extended up to the sixth floor and into the cockloft, impacting multiple apartment lines throughout the building. “Units were chasing fire in the walls, which spread from the top floor down to the first floor, affecting approximately 24 apart ments,” said Deputy Chief Jam es Carney. NYC Emergency Management assisted on scene, in cluding securing a nearby school and providing a warming bus for displaced residents. All occupants were safely evacuated, and no civilian or firefighter injuries were reported. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Rick Billings HYDRANTS LAMENT... THEY TEST ME IN THE SPRING EACH YEAR, THOUGH IVE NO NCHANCE TO STUDY. STAND ALONE ALL DAY AND NIGHT, WITH NO CHANCE OF A BUDDY...
SHORTIY AFTER THE LEAVES OF FALL,THEY SHOVEL SNOW / A FROM f WINTER'S L
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MY SPRING GOT SPRUNG.' ITS SAD TO SAY, SOME NEW ^
/L Y T
BUT WHEN THERE'S FIRE WITH EMBERS GLOWING, I'LL ALWAYS KEEP THE WATER F L O W I N G ----
TURNED IT THE WRONGT -
c 2026 by Rick Billings bear59dog@yahoo.com @jampony452
...AND PONT GET ME GOING ABOUT THE POGS...
PAGE 44
March, 2026
1ST Responder Newspaper - NY
SPARTAN S -180 PUMPER KME K -180 PUMPER
’LL
S u p p ly C o m p a n y
ROAD Y N HALF THE TIME.
PERFORMANCE STATS
FEATURES & BENEFITS
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C u s to m cha ssis
Enhanced Maneuverability
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Side o r to p -m o u n te d c o n fig u ra tio n s
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750 a n d 1 0 0 0 -g a llo n ta n k c a p a c ity
one o f the sm allest tu rn radiuses in its class. W ith
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A v a ila b le in 9 c u s to m c o n fig u ra tio n s
c ra m p angles rea ch in g up to 53 degrees a nd an
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Full h e ig h t c o m p a rtm e n ta tio n
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M a x im iz e d c o m p a rtm e n t s p a c e
a p p ro a c h a n g le o f up to 19 degrees, it c o m fo rta b ly surpasses NFPA 1901 requirem ents.
•
H ale a n d W a te ro u s pu m p s
Engineered fo r tig h t spaces, this chassis delivers
Maximized Compartment Space Designed fo r re a l-w o rld utility, th e b o d y fe a ture s b o th fu ll-d e p th a n d sp lit-d e p th c o m p a rtm e n ts w ith ve rsa tile slid e -ou t tra y s — giving crew s m ore o rg a n ize d sto ra g e a nd easier access to equipm ent.
Most Spacious Cab The ca b la yo u t prioritizes c o m fo rt a n d fu n ction , o ffe rin g generous in te rio r room , im proved sightlines, sm art sto ra g e solutions, an d e rg o n o m ic design elem ents th a t su p p o rt cre w safety.
Independent Front Suspension The a va ila b le 20k a nd 24k in d e p e n d e n t fro n t suspension system s d e live r e xce lle n t c ra m p angles a nd full a ir-rid e p e rfo rm a n ce . M u ltip le tire size o p tio ns a llo w fo r easier se rvicea b ility a nd sm ooth o p e ra tio n .
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