VOLUME 11, NO. 2
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes In NY State DECEMBER 2017
Story on page 6 -Fire News photo by Kenny Flynn
Season’s Greetings from the Staff at Fire News – New York State Edition –
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Fire News, December 2017, Page 3
In this issue... Schenectady Covers Niskayuna
Niskayuna Fire District 1 firefighters received a call and the Schenectady Fire Department responded as automatic mutual aid. See page 7
Poughkeepsie House Blaze
Firefighters arrived to find heavy fire from the rear of a 2-1/2 story multi-family residence. See story on page 8
Flames Show in Amsterdam
Amsterdam firefighters were dispatched to a structure fire on Elizabeth Street. See story on page 15
Flames Show in East Fishkill
East Fishkill firefighters, along with the Village of Fishkill, operated at a structure fire on Leetown Road. See story on page 17
A Service for New York State Firefighters and EMS Heroes 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713
FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher TIM EDWARDS, Executive Editor DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor GARY P. JOYCE, Asst. Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production/Sales LYNN SEDLER, Art Director CLIFF CHIESA, Production Manager Advertising Sales: BARBARA CONNOLLY Graphic Artist: GREGORY JONES CONTRIBUTORS: Andrew Aguilar, Chris Aldous, Jeff Ambroz, Peter Barber, Kevin Barry, John Bashaw, Bill Bennett, Tom Bierds, Jeff Couch, Chris Creighton, David Denniston, Rick Douglas, Brian Duddy, Stan Dybus, John Falcone, Ken Flynn, Joe Fortunato, Eli Gill, Mark Gillen, Carol Greene, Tom Heffernan Sr., Greg Herman, Matt Hodge, Steve Hodgekiss, Robert Holley, Daniel Imfield, Andy Jarchin, Bill Johnson, Mark Johnson, Chris Kalisak, Charlie Keller, Jon Kemp, Gordon Kotars, David R. LaRocco, Stephen Lenz, Joshua Long, Mike Messar, Ralph Miele, Albert Mignone, John Miller, Martin E. Miller, Lloyd Mitchell, Brian Natoli, Carleton Raab, Robert Reynolds, Lauren Rivera, Stephen Schaefer, Deborah Schweikert, Tom Shand, John Shaw, Sharon Siegel, Robert Simpson, Joe Sperber, Bryan Sypniewski, Karen Todd, Kyle Townsend, Joe Turner, Michael VanDerLieth, Lori Washburn, D.B. Weimer, Stephen White.
Columnists: Bruce Johnson, John Salka COPYRIGHT 2017, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Van Into Lake in Schenectady
Schenectady firefighters responded to Iroquois Lake in Central Park after a minivan was seen rolling down a hill, ending up partially submerged.
See story on page 23
NYS Honors Its Fallen Firefighters
Firefighters from across the state came to honor the 118 fallen firefighters at the NYS Fallen Firefighter Memorial.
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Six Editions Serving Long Island, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Pennsylvania Proud Member Of:
See story on page 34
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 4 Announcements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 5 Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 23 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 24 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 32 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 33
Letters to the Editor, byline articles, and columns represent the opinions of the writers and photographers and are not necessarily the views of the Fire News. We reserve the right to edit all of the above. We are not responsible for errors in advertisements beyond the cost of advertising space. Copy submitted is subject to editing for space requirements. The placing of an advertisement in this publication does not constitute endorsement. Contents are copyrighted. Editorial and advertising copy cannot be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Fire News is published monthly by Fire News Inc, with corporate offices at 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713.
Page 4, Fire News, December 2017
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
Saying Good Bye to 2017 Wow, I cannot believe I am writing my December editorial. Reflecting on 2017, I feel it was a great year for most of us. Sadly, 77 families will be celebrating the holiday season missing one of their loved one's due to a Line of Duty Death. Hopefully this number stands fast and does not change in the near future. My prayers at Thanksgiving and during Christmas will be for comfort and understanding for the families who will sit in their homes staring at a spot, where one of their loved ones used to sit. It is up to the departments who have lost members to remember their families and offer comfort to them during the holiday season. Are you looking ahead to 2018? Are you asking yourself what you can do to be better than you were in 2017? Fire News knows that for some of you, it will be hard to beat 2017. We thank the Medal of Valor winners who gave all, by placing their own lives in danger to save the people they serve. We know all responders continue to run into burning buildings and respond to EMS calls with the passion and desire to save lives. This year our Incident Management Teams and USAR Teams left their families to help people throughout the world who suffered devastation from natural disasters in 2017. Our hot-
shot crews and smoke jumpers were challenged as they literally marched off to wars of fire throughout the United States of America and reigned supreme over some of the largest wildfires to date. What will I be looking at in 2018? Firefighter Stress Management and PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) are areas of concern for all of us. Mark Lamplugh from the Lower Chichester (PA) Fire Company wrote about this in 2016. The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation has addressed this issue. Their Courage to Be Safe program is a provocative and moving presentation by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, through the Everyone Goes Home Program, designed to change the culture of accepting the loss of firefighters as a normal occurrence. Visit their website for more information on Stress First Aid for Firefighters and EMS Personnel. Their program on Stress First Aid is designed for you, the first responder. In 2018, make it a point to do something about the silent killer in the fire service. I have written about the importance of learning what you can do to lessen the chances of getting cancer. As a person who was stricken with cancer, I know, first-hand, how your mind spins and haunts you as you ask what caused
your life altering cancer? Could I have done something to prevent cancer? In case you do not believe there is a relationship of firefighting and cancer, ask yourself why so many of us who have fought fires side-by-side seem to be coming down with cancer. Listen to the message from the Cancer Support Network; wear your mask, keep your gear clean, and wash up after every call. Visit their website to learn what you can do to lessen the chances of getting this dreaded disease. As we near the end of 2017, I wish everyone a happy and healthy holiday season. Extend your hand to give thanks and support to your brothers and sisters. No matter what holiday you celebrate, remember the reason for the season. See you in 2018! - Dennis
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Announcements
WE MOURN THE LINE OF DUTY DEATHS OF: FIREFIGHTER RONALD W. HINKLE The U.S. Fire Administration has announced the official on-duty death of Firefighter Ronald W. Hinkle, 71, of the Loch Sheldrake Fire Department on October 17, 2017. On October 17, 2017, Firefighter Ronald W. Hinkle responded to a motor vehicle accident with the Loch Sheldrake Fire Company #1. Firefighter Hinkle was found later in the day at his home unresponsive. Fellow firefighters and other first responders attempted to revive Hinkle, but all rescue efforts failed. Firefighter Hinkle passed away from a nature and cause of fatal injury still to be determined. In liew of flowers, donations in Ronald’s name can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 510 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. Seventy-five firefighter fatalities have been reported to USFA in 2017 so far. Year-to-date and annual USFA firefighter fatality reports are posted online at www.usfa.fema .gov/data/statistics/ff_fatality_reports.html.
FIREFIGHTER DAVID E CARR FirefighterOperator David E. Carr, a long-time member of the Brasher-Winthrop Volunteer Fire Department and the Tri-Town Volunteer Rescue Squad responded with his fire department on a mutual aid call to an industrial fire of 5,800 tons of burning wood pellets inside of a large metal warehouse. Firefighters, with the aid of the company president who brought in an excavator from another work site to tear down the walls and roof of the building, worked through the night to bring the fire under control. After being released from the scene, Firefighter-Operator Carr returned with his fire department to the firehouse to clean and put away equipment. Firefighter-Operator Carr then departed for home, where, later in the morning, he succumbed to a nature and cause of fatal injury still to be reported. Please consider memorial contributions, in David’s name, to the Brasher-Winthrop Volunteer Fire Department or the Tri-Town Volunteer Rescue Squad.
10TH ANNUAL FIRE POLICE EDUCATIONAL SEMINAR Conducted by the Fire Police Associations of Ulster and Dutchess counties. Endorsed by Region 2, Volunteer Fire Police Association of the State of New York. Saturday, November 11, 2017, at the Highland Fire Department, at the intersections of Route 9W, 44/55, two traffic lights north of the Poughkeepsie Bridge. Designated parking will be in effect. Registration (free) - 0800. Seminar - 0900 to 1530. Quickie breakfast and lunch; donation $8 to the Highland FD. This seminar is open to all Fire Police and Police Departments from any county, featuring exceptional speakers. Key topics and presenters include: Traffic Incident Control with table top exercise; So You Think You’re a Fire Police Officer? by Gerard Paris Jr., Albany County Fire Coordinator and Chief DeGroff; Fire Police Training Opportunities - by Chief John Lembke, OFPC Instructor and Westchester Deputy Coordinator); Let me introduce myself, what’s new? Ulster County Fire Coordinator James Anzalone. Six hours LOSAP credits. Expect a great and informative seminar.
WHERE ARE YOUR DEPARTMENT’S PHOTOS? We are always happy to receive photos and stories from departments who have never been in our paper. E-mail your photos to nj@fire news.com. (300 dpi or better) .
Page 6, Fire News, December 2017
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Cover Story
Pearl River Car, House Fire
Early on October 6, 2017, the Pearl River Fire Department was dispatched for a car into a house on Sickletown Road. The vehicle missed a stop sign at an intersection, left the roadway and crashed into the front of the home, penetrating the garage wall, severing the home’s natural gas line and igniting a fire, which quickly spread. The driver of the car fled the scene. Orangetown police officers assisted four residents in exiting the home. Crews held the burning gas line in check as others advanced into the home. Mutual aid came from several area departments and EMS agencies, and the Red Cross responded to assist the homeowners. The driver was later found and charged with leaving the scene of an accident, among other charges. - Fire News photos by Kenny Flynn
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Schenectady Covers Niskayuna
Basement Fire in Bayside
On October 10, 2017, Niskayuna Fire District 1 firefighters received a call reporting a structure fire on Grandview Avenue. With all personnel on a detail, the Schenectady Fire Department responded as automatic mutual aid. Engine 4 was first on scene of two-story wood frame with flames venting from the second story. The fire was brought under control in less than an hour and all occupants escaped safely. - Fire News photo by Peter Barber
FDNY companies battled a two-alarm blaze in a two-story private dwelling on 202nd Street in the Bayside section of Queens on October 9, 2017. The fire was believed to have originated in the basement and spread to the floors above. A heavy clutter condition throughout hampered operations. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Poughkeepsie House Blaze
City of Poughkeepsie firefighters, assisted by Arlington and Fairview, operated at a structure fire on Mansion Street on the north side of Poughkeepsie. Firefighters arrived to find heavy fire from the rear of a 2-1/2 story multi-family residence. The fire was quickly extinguished. - Fire News photos by Bill Johnson
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Flames Halted in Flatbush
On October 30, 2017, FDNY units from the 41st Battalion battled a removed in critical condition. Heavt interior cluuter hampered firetwo-alarm fire on the fifth floor of a mult-dwelling on Ocean fighting efforts. -Fire News photos by Lloyd Mitchell Avenue. One victim was rescued and had to be given CPR. He was
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Halloween Blaze in Scottsville Late on Halloween, a passerby noticed flames from the back of the One Road Church that was once home to Ronnie’s Softball Park. The chief arrived to fire in a single story structure and requested additional equipment. Shortly thereafter, command called for an external attack. The building, which used to house grounds equipment and a bar, was now converted to a church. The building had limited access and was in a non-hydrant district. Companies from Scottsville, Clifton, Mumford, Caledonia, York, East Avon and Henrietta, along with CHS EMS responded to the scene. A tanker operation was put into use to feed the apparatus. Extra trucks with lighting were also brought in. Scottsville Chief Brian Ely said there were no injuries reported. Later in the day, three fire departments were summoned back to the site for a rekindle. The Monroe County Fire Bureau was conducting the origin and cause investigation. -Fire News photos by John Spaulding
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Smoky Wal-Mart
East Greenbush was dispatched to Wall-Mart on Route 4 for heavy smoke filling the store. On arrival, Chief Robert Lehmann requested Clinton Heights for fams to assist. Two senior Wyantskill firemen were just leaving the store when the alarm sounded, went back in, found the fire and reported to the first arrivals that it was plastic flowers that had been torched near the grocery section where the heavy smoke was concentrated.Everyone was evacuated, the roof hatch was opened. A 29-year-old male was arrested and charged with reckless endangerment. - Fire News photo by Martin E. Miller
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Been Here, Done That
On October 5, 2017, North Greenbush firefighters responded to a structure fire adjacent to the sprawling Rensselaer Tech Park. On arrival, they found a large farm house with smoke and fire showing. The nearest hydrant was on the campus. A second alarm was transmitted, bringing two more ladder companies from East Greenbush and Clinton Heights and pumpers from West Sand Lake and East Greenbush. The house was the scene of a previous fire. - Fire News photo by Martin E. Miller
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5-Alarmer in the South Bronx
On October 1, 2017, the FDNY responded to Watson Avenue in the South Bronx for a fire in a U-shaped, five-story apartment building. Upon arrival, first-due Engine 82, called a second and then a third alarm for heavy smoke pouring from the cockloft of the brick structure. As the fire spread to exposures on either side, fourth and fifth alarms were ordered, with additional ladder companies for manpower and rehab. The fire was officially brought under control in less than two hours. - Fire News photos by Peter Barber
Collapse in Cleveland Hill
Cleveland Hill firefighters were toned out for a house fire with flames visible. Cleveland Hill 9 arrived to a two-story dwelling fully involved. Multiple handlines were used as well as a Tower Ladder. The dwelling ultimately collapsed. - Fire News photo by Donald Kilianski
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Flames Show in Amsterdam
On October 30, 2017, Amsterdam firefighters were dispatched to a structure fire on Elizabeth Street. Units arrived to flames showing, and command called for a second and third alarm. Firefighters quickly secured a hydrant and entered the structure, advancing to the roof with a handline to extinguish the fire. All occupants were evacuated by firefighters and police, no injuries were reported and the cause was being investigated. - Fire News photos by Mark Perfetti
Page 16, Fire News, December 2017
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Foam Reminds Us of Winter
Victim Burned in New Hamburg
On October 24, 2017 Verdoy, West Albany and Shaker RoadLoudonville fire departments were called for a hazmat incident at Command Airways by the Albany County Airport. A nearby water main break had triggered the fire suppression system in the hanger and office areas, filling the building with foam that escaped through the ventilation system into the parking lot. Winds took the massive foam piles and blanketed the area in a snow-like appearance. After considering the options it was decided to water down the foam to keep it from spreading. -Fire News photo by Lori Washburn
As the area was experiencing torrential rain, New Hamburg firefighters, Hughsonville, Mobile Life Paramedics, and the Town of Poughkeepsie Police were dispatched for a reported structure fire in a residence on Honey Lane. Firefighters arrived to find an active fire and began a primary search and suppression efforts. During the primary search, firefighters located an unconscious male who had suffered serious burns and turned him over to Mobile Life Paramedics for treatment and transport to Vassar Brothers Medical Center. The fire was being investigated by the Dutchess County Department of Emergency Response and the Town of Poughkeepsie Police Department. - Fire News photos by Bill Johnson
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Flames Show in East Fishkill
East Fishkill firefighters, along with the Village of Fishkill, operated at a structure fire on Leetown Road near the Putnam County line. Firefighters arrived to find fire from the exterior wall of a large multi-level residence and quickly extinguished the fire. -Fire News photos by Bill Johnson
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Queens All-Hands
The FDNY battled an all-hands fire in the attic of a Queens Village home on 122th Road on the morning of October 18, 2017. Truck companies had to pull ceilings on the second floor to gain access to the blaze. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Firehouse Kitchen
Mediterranean Meatloaf By Ray Cooney
Last month I spoke about the Mediterranean Diet. The program was called “Feeding America’s Bravest – Survival Mediterranean Style.” In case you didn’t read it, I spoke mainly about a man named Big George and his restaurant, The Greek Islands. Why am I mentioning what I wrote about last month? This article is going to be about Dr. Stefanos Kales — the man behind the Mediterranean Diet. I met up with Dr. Kales on my trip to Indianapolis, back in October 2017. The day started with me arriving at Kroger Supermarket (the largest traditional grocer in the country), being dropped off by Engine 53 of the Indianapolis Fire Department. My producer thought this would be great footage for our Indianapolis episode. Dr. Kales greeted me, along with Lieutenant Mike Caruso (of the FDNY Training and Health Unit). I questioned why the FDNY was there, and Dr. Kales informed me that Mike helped put the Mediterranean Diet study (from the last article) together. Kroger’s was the choice of supermarket due to their fresh selection of produce and organic items (important items for the Mediterranean Diet). After we were done shopping, we arrived at Station 41 to commence cooking. I was star struck upon entering! There, in front of me, was UFC fighter
Chris Lytle. He is retired from the UFC and took on an even bigger thrill-ride of a job — he became an Indianapolis firefighter. Upon meeting, I told him he was definitely cooking on the segmen, and asked him what he’d cook. “What have you got? I can cook anything.” We agreed that he would cook the asparagus, one of his favorite vegetables. In the kitchen, Dr. Kales, Lieutenant Mike Caruso and myself were comical. My producer stopped us midway through shooting to inform me that I was calling Mike by the wrong name because I was calling him “Lou.” I knew very well what his name was – I was calling him “Lou” as short for Lieutenant. Instead of using ground beef, we were using ground turkey for our Mediterranean meatloaf. We mixed in a bunch of chopped vegetables to make this a healthy meal. We set up a giant table on the apparatus floor and invited firefighters from the surrounding stations to join us. I had a wonderful time in Indianapolis. It’s not just a place to go to for FDIC, but a wonderful place to get to know. To find out more about Firehouse Kitchen or how to become a sponsor, visit firehousekitchenshow.com. Check your local listing for where you can view Firehouse Kitchen.
Mediterranean Meatloaf 3-lbs of ground turkey 3-eggs 1-cup grated Parmesan cheese 2 1/2 cups seasoned bread crumbs 2- bell peppers, mix colors 1- green squash
1- cup shredded carrots 1- red onion 2- cups mushrooms Ketchup Salt, pepper, garlic and thyme 4 tblsp Worcester sauce Small can of tomato paste
Finely Chop all vegetables. Saute onion and peppers in olive oil for five minutes. Add carrots and squash sauté another three or four minutes. Add mushrooms and sauté for two minutes. Blend in tomato paste, Worcester, and spices. Shut heat cover and let cool Blend meat, eggs cheese and some more spices and vegetable mixture; make sure vegetables aren’t hot before you add to meat. Form in a pan. Cover top with ketchup. Bake in 375-degree oven for about one-hour or internal temperature is 160 degrees. Don’t ovecook … and enjoy!
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Fire in East Fishkill
Bushwick 3-Alarmer
The East Fishkill Fire Department battled a fire on Route 82. One line was immediately stretched to attack to the fire, while the roof was vented. A second line was stretched to back up the first and protect search crews. Multiple search crews were used because it was multi-family house. Firefighters did a great job bringing the fire under control. - Fire News photo by Bill Johnson
The FDNY responded to a three-alarm fire in a unoccupied wood frame building on Halsey Street in the Bushwick section of Brooklyn on October 23, 2017. -Fire News photo by Lloyd Mitchell
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Quick Quell in Queens
FDNY units in Queens were on the scene of a basement fire in a row of taxpayers on Guy R. Brewer Boulevard on the afternoon of October 19, 2017. Two lines were needed to douse the blaze, which took about 20 minutes to bring under control. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Greene County Firefighter of the Year
Congratulations to the Greene County Volunteer Firemen’s Association 2017 Firefighter of the Year, the Athens Volunteer Fire Department Swift Water Rescue Team. In making the nomination, past-Chief John Greco wrote, “On May 19, 2017, the Athens Fire Department Swift Water Rescue Team was requested ... for a swimmer in distress in the Catskill Creek under the Route 23B overpass. During the course of the rescue, the swimmer lost his grip [on a safety line] and was swept over the spillway ... At this time, the team deployed a rescue throw bag from the shore to the swimmer. With luck, on the first attempt, the swimmer was able to be pulled to shore. He was transported to an area hospital and treated for minor injuries . . .” The team consists of Certified Dive Instructor Anthony DelVecchio III, Diver Don Weingard, Chief Adam Greco, 1st Asst. Chief Dave Disbrow, 2nd Asst Chief Wayne Butterworth, Peter Alberti, Christina Butta, Xena Drobner, Steve Gogger, E. J. Olivett, James Robinson III, Robert Schrader, William Tompkins, Tom Vatalaro and Mark Vota. -Fire News photo by John Miller
Fully Painted Fire Helmet
This hand-painted helmet took Douglas Hughes over a year to design and paint. It is used by the White Plains Fire Department in parades and during Fire Prevention Week. -Fire News photo courtesy of Douglas Hughes
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MVA in Winona On October 17, 2017, the Winona Lake Engine Company was called out to an MVA on the New York State Thruway. Three people were taken to the hospital. - Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick
New Salem MC Crash On October 14, 2017, the New Salem Fire Department and Albany County Paramedics responded for a motorcycle crash on Route 85ANew Salem Road in the Town of New Scotland. The motorcycle left the roadway and crashed into some large rocks before slamming into a tree. The male operator and his female passenger were thrown from the motorcycle and received serious injuries. They were treated at the scene by Albany County Paramedics, then transported by Albany County Sheriff’s Ambulances to Albany Medical Center Hospital. - Fire News photo by Tom Heffernan
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Van Into Lake in Schenectady
On September 6, 2017, Schenectady firefighters responded to pants, which came up negative. An intoxicated woman reportedly Iroquois Lake in Central Park after a minivan was seen rolling lost control of the van and jumped out as it careened down a steep down a hill, ending up partially submerged. Firefighters from hill used by youngsters in the winter for sledding. - Fire News photos by Peter R. Barber Truck 2 used their aerial platform to search the vehicle for occu-
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FDSOA’S SANDY DAVIS RAISED FF CANCER AWARENESS Michael Petroff, former FDSOA Chair, served on the board many Sandy Davis, former chairman of the Fire Department Safety Officers Association passed away Friday, November 3, 2017, after years with Davis. “Sandy was a mentor and a friend. Even during his battling colorectal cancer. Sandy was 62-years old. Davis served on illness, after his term as chairman of the FDSOA, he assisted in the search and hiring of Director Rich the FDSOA Board of Directors for 12 years Marinucci,” said Petroff. “Sandy always and was a popular speaker at conferences had a smile and a story to tell. Some of his across the U.S. and Canada. stories could even be repeated in polite Davis began his fire service career with company. I know he was a devoted family Shreveport (LA) Fire Department and man and a dedicated public servant. His served as safety officer until he retired after Facebook post about wearing PPE speaks 26 years. He then joined the Louisiana of his character and concern for others.” Department of Homeland Security A funeral service was held on November Emergency Management and served as 7, 2017, in Shreveport, Louisiana. Homeland Security Director for CaddoBossier for 12 years. After being diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2013, Davis made it his mission to increase firefighter awareness to wear PPE at every incident. In 2015, Davis and John Phelan, a Shreveport firefighter, produced a five-minute video in 2015 for firefighters about the importance of wearing their PPE “Every incident, every time.” In the video, Davis states, “The colostomy bag is my PPE now.” He added that many nights he would lie awake wondering if wearing turnout gear would have prevented his colon cancer. “Sandy Davis was a great contributor to the FDSOA and we are all grateful to him,” said Rich Marinucci, executive director of the FDSOA. “Safety officers have become a more vital part of the fire service and Sandy’s messages on firefighter cancer were powerful. Rest in peace.”
NEW YORK TACTICAL EMS EXPO AND TRAINING SYMPOSIUM The 1st Annual NY Tactical EMS Expo is coming to Long Island Pararescue (fmr.); Detective Wallace Zeins- NYPD Hostage on January 6 and 7, 2018, at the Huntington Hilton Expo Center (598 Negotiation Team (ret).; Firefighter Bryan Kelly, EMT-P-FDNY Squad 1/FDNY Fire Academy; and many more. Special guest appearWalt Whitman Road) in Melville, New York. The expo will feature ance by New Orleans EMS Captain Keeley Williams from the two events under a single roof, bringing together the best hit show Nightwatch on A&E. training and products in the fields of EMS, Fire T h e N Y Ta c t i c a l E M S C o n f e r e n c e and Law Enforcement. There will be i s d e s i g n e d fo r a l l fi rs t re s p o n d e r s 10,000-square feet of vendors, exhibits and (Fire/EMS/Law Enforcement/RN/MD/DO/ public safety trade show featuring products PAs/NPs/Personal Protective Detail/Security by Quick-Clot, Rusch, Stat-Packs, EZ-IO, and others). The training symposium is Rescue Essentials, X-Stat/RevMedX and designed to provide a different look at the many more local and national names. incidents encountered every day and those The Two-Day Training Symposium feathat can happen at any moment. The faculty tures some of the top educators and providers members will share their knowledge and covering some of the most relevant incidents experience to help you respond and be as to first responders, such as the Boston effective as possible when that critical moment Marathon Bombing, Pulse Orlando Shooting, strikes. Bourbon Street Shooting, and many other We all know that Long Island is a very MCI, Operational Medicine and Tactical dynamic, multi-agency jurisdiction and has Medicine case reviews, topics and hands-on many hidden hazards that can present themselves scenario and skills training. at a moment’s notice. There is no excuse not to Featured faculty such as Lt. Colonel Stephen be prepared and learn directly from those who Rush, M.D.-USAF Pararescue Medical Director; Dr. have done it. Check out our faculty list at Amado Alejandro Baez, MD, Chairman Emergency tacmedexpo.com/faculty. Medicine-Kings County Hospital, Chairman-Tactical Register today at tacmedexpo.com. Medicine, American College of Emergency Physicians; Agency discounts are available for 10-plus members. Dominic Marino, DVM - FBI/ATF K-9; Sgt. Arthur Kakis, Contact NYTEMSEXPO@GMAIL.com for group discounts. EMT-P- Lead Tactical Medic- NY State Police SORT. USAF
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MacBoston vs. FDNY
New Hamburg Save
With the MacBoston 18 Truck tiller outside proudly flying the nations flag, the 5th annual MacBoston Hockey versus FDNY Hockey fundraiser game took place on October 28, 2017, at the Cool Insurance Center in Glens Falls. The annual event brings together the two amazing teams to help raise funds for the MacBoston 18 Truck Fallen Firefighter Memorial. It was an exciting battle on the ice with both teams scoring back and forth. The final score of eight to six favored MacBoston. Both on and off the ice you could see the brotherhood between the teams. -Fire News photo by Lori Washburn
The team of New Hamburg firefighters who quickly located and removed a victim from a house fire on Honey Lane in the Town of Poughkeepsie. Great work! -Fire News photo by Bill Johnson
Page 26, Fire News, December 2017
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Remembering
9/11
The Pride of Midtown Engine 54, 4 Truck, and Battalion 9 held their 16th 9/11 remembrance ceremony at Firefighters Park at Ritz Plaza. Each name of the 15 brothers who lost their lives on that day were read aloud and family members took turns laying flowers on the fountain in the middle of the memorial on which the names of each of the firefighters were engraved. Engine 35 and Tower Ladder 14, ‘Heaven in Harlem,’ stretched a banner similar to the one at Ground Zero across the front facade of their firehouse on 3rd Avenue. The original banner, which was almost thrown away, was found and is now on display at the 9/11 Museum in lower Manhattan. - Fire News photos by Peter R. Barber
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Nanuet Moves to New Quarters Recently, the Nanuet Fire Department made the long awaited ‘final move’ from their old quarters into their brand new firehouse located several blocks away. Led by Chief Billy Schoenleber, Jr., members said their final goodbye to their previous house by signing off the radio, taking all their turnout gear, and holding a parade of trucks, lights flashing, as they drove to the new location. Once there, the new 8-100 was officially placed into service. - Fire News photo by Kenny Flynn
Elks Honor Firefighters The Town of Colonie and the Colonie Elks held its 46th annual Firefighter of the Year banquet on October 8, 2017. The event brought together the 12 departments of the Town of Colonie to show their gratitude and appreciation for firefighters who go above and beyond for their department and community. Congratulations go out to: (First row, left to right): Colonie Elks Exalted Ruler, Frank Bauer; Joseph Murray, West Albany Fire Department; Kathleen Raso, Latham; Harvey Bender, Menands; Timothy Bell, Shaker Road-Loudonville; Patrick Boccio, Stanford Heights; and David L. Leonardo, Verdoy. (Second row, left to right): Matthew Bagley, Boght; Marc Poskus, Colonie Village; Christopher Ruff, Fuller Road; John Reilly, Maplewood; Aimee Zescwitz, Midway; and Colonie Car 1, Richard Haack. Missing from photo is David Markes of the Schuyler Heights Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Lori Washburn
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Halloween Fun in Newburgh The Town of Newburgh EMS held its first ‘Trunk and Treat’ for Halloween. There was face painting, hot chocolate and candy for the kids. -Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick
Fire Prevention at Meadow Hill School On October 13, 2017, the Winona Lake and Orange Lake Fire Departments went to Meadow hill school, and gave the kids a tour of the trucks. Firefighters gave out coloring books and answered the childrens’ questions. One firefighter demistrate Stop, Drop and Roll. -Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick
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Fire News, December 2017, Page 29
Halloween in Cortlandville
On Halloween night, the Cortlandville Fire Department delivered candy and safety messages to the children in local neighborhoods. This is the tenth year the department has participated in the detail and the response from the community has been overwhelming. The kids love to have their pictures taken with Sparky. Many of the adults thank the firefighters for for their service to the community. The Cortlandville Fire District is unique in that the town surrounds other cities, villages
and hamlets. The fire district does not have its own main street or school. It is made up of big box stores, hotels, factories, farms and housing developments. This event provides firefighters with their one chance a year to get out and really see the children and adults of the community. The department also provided a candy check at the station where kids bring in their candy and it is checked with a metal detector and for tampering. -Fire News photos by David Denniston
Page 30, Fire News, December 2017
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Fire News, December 2017, Page 31
Chaplain Recognized for Service
First Deputy Chief Chaplain of the New York State Association of Fire Chaplains, William Mayo, was presented with a plaque recognizing his 25 years of service to the Plainview Fire Department. Plainview is located in Nassau County, NY. Chaplain Mayo was honored for serving as Plainview’s Fire Medic and Chaplain. Congratulations Bill! - Fire News photo by Frank C. Trotta
Martin Gets Chief’s Award
Mahopac Falls Vol. Fire Dept. held their 80th installation of officers at Villa Barone in Mahopac on October 28, 2017. This year’s incoming Firematic officers were installed by the Honorable James Reitz, led by newly minted Chief Brian Sacher, as well as the Administrative officers led by President Hans Schweizer. Highlights of the evening included a dedication of the dinner to long time member, rescue diver, and current Department Treasurer Ralph Harkins. This year’s Chiefs Awards were presented to Dive Team Captain Brandon Dwyer and Dive Team Lieutenant Matthew Faeth by outgoing Chief Jeff Boyle. This year’s Presidents Award was presented to Faith Martin, newly installed EMS Lieutenant, by President Schweizer. James Reitz, Jr., and Dawn Sarlo received Life Member gold cards for 20 years of service. Congratulations to the new and returning officers and our award winners. -Fire News photo by Jack Casey
Page 32, Fire News, December 2017
Tilearico Remembered
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The funeral for FDNY Firefighter Robert ‘Skippy’ Tilearico was Both Massapequa and Seaford Fire Departments set up a flag arch held on October 28, 2017, at S. Rose Church in Massapequa. near the church to honor Tilearico who had also been a member of Firefighter Tilearico died from 9/11 related cancer. During the past the Massapequa Fire Department. few years he worked hard, even traveling to Washington, to extend - Fire News photo by Ed Tuffy, Massapequa FD the Zadroga Act to cover those suffering from 9/11 related illnesses.
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Fire News, December 2017, Page 33
Rensselaer Co. Emergency Services Memorial Service
The Rensselaer County Emergency Services Memorial Service was Jimino, County Executive. Seventy-five memorial candles were held on October 1, 2017. Members of the various volunteer and pro- placed as a bell tolled for the remembered. - Fire News photos by Martin Miller fessional organizations and clergy led the service. After the memorial address, words of thanks were spoken by the Honorable Kathy
Page 34, Fire News, December 2017
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NYS Honors Its Fallen Firefighters
On October 10, 2017, the Empire State Convention Center was packed to capacity as over 1000 firefighters from across the state came to honor the 118 fallen firefighters at the New York State Fallen Firefighter Memorial in Albany. This was the largest gathering of firefighters for this event since it began 20 years ago. There are 2542 names of fallen firefighters from throughout New York on the memorial. This year’s inductees included many firefighters from FDNY who have passed from 9/11 related cancers. As always the MacBoston 18 Fallen Firefighter Memorial tiller truck proudly flew the nation’s flag over the memorial. MacBoston also proudly displayed their new plaques memorializing all 2542 names on the memorial wall. - Fire News photos by Lori Washburn and Tom Heffernan