VOLUME XLVI, NO. 5
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Since 1973 JANUARY 2019
Story on page 6 - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Happy & Safe New Year From The Staff At Fire News
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In this issue... A Service for Long Island Firefighters and EMS Heroes
FFs Get Lucky at Springs House Fire
Founded 1973
A section of floor falls and the hole is obscured by smoke as crews enter.
146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713
See story page 8
Fatality at Massapequa Blaze After knocking down a fire a body is found in the home’s garage. See story page 20
15 Displaced by Brentwood Fire A basement fire extends and takes crews nearly an hour to bring under control. See story page 27
Tution Assistance Restored for Nassau Vols Supervisor Curran signs a Nassau Legislature bill providing for 2018 and 2019 finacial educational assistance. See story on page 57
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: GREG JONES, JEB LADOUCEUR, Publisher Emeritus CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: Vinnie Ammirati, Tim Asbell, Bill Bennett, Dennis Berger, Chris Brenner, Jeff Bressler, Kirk Candan, Wayne Carrington, Amanda Coffey, Ed Coppa, Bill D'Alessandro, Mike DesCalso, Jim Dunn, Larry Fox, Lee Genser, Myron Goldstein, Bryan Gosik, Brian Grogan, Steve Grogan,Mike Guarino, Daniel Gunther, Michael Gunther, Stephanie Handshaw, Jeff Havlik, Jack Healy, Branden Heller, Michael Heller, Christine Heeren, Robert Holley, Cody Hoyle, Kevin Imm, John Ippolito, Kate Kuntz, Tom Lambui, Joe Lapietra, Richard Lewin, Bryan Lopez, Harry Loud, Kurt Ludwig, Brad Maier, John Mancino, Paul Mazza, Terry McCarrick, Lou Minutoli, Ron Monteleone, Jim Mooney, Ilene Morris, Michael Murphy, Charles A. Murphy, Mike Oppedisano, John Neely, Phil Orlando, Robert O'Rourk, Kevin Parkan, Tom Pesce, Kevin Peterson, Jackson Pokress, Jerry Presta, Myles Quinn, Jerry Rudolph, Dave Rubin, Jim Rugen, AJ Ryan, Steve Schaefer, Drew Silverman, Steve Silverman, Joe Sperber, Rich Stark, JoAnn Stephani, Brian Thomas, Ed Tuffy, Joe Virgilio, Steve Walsh, Dennis Whittam, Cameron Wilken, Michael Wiwczar, John Wladyka, Jr. COLUMNISTS: Jeff Bailes, Paul Hashagen, Bruce Johnson, John Salka, Billy Goldfeder, Danny Peluso, Bradley Pinksy, Tom Rinelli
Hawaiian FFs Attend DiBernardo Seminar
COPYRIGHT 2018, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Five Hawaiian firefighters attended the 6th Annual Lt. Joseph P. DiBernardo Memorial Seminar. See story on page 68
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Obituaries Great Alert EHLH 1’s Raymond Plakstis, Jr.
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46 Years of Excellence As you know, Fire News is in its 46th year of publication. If you have any stories, photos and good memories from the past, please send them to LI@FireNews.com.
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
2019: A Year to Recommit As life seems to move by faster and faster, it is hard to believe that 2019 has arrived. A few days ago, I sat back and gave thought to some of the concerns I have about the fire service. Response has become an issue for many volunteer fire departments. The worst thing you can do is to ignore staffing and response issues. Urban, suburban and rural demands for response are all different. However, in the end, the oath we took to protect life, property and the environment is what matters. The time has come for you, the department member, to reevaluate your oath and ask yourself if you are truly committed to living up to what you are expected to do as a volunteer firefighter. I know we are living in complicated times. Members are challenged to find the time to constantly train, maintain equipment, meet their recommended Best Practices for Fire Department Training Programs, and respond to a required amount of calls. You must understand that for many, being a volunteer firefighter is like having a second or third full-time job. I compliment those of you who have put their hand up to become part of the volunteer fire service. Thank you for finding the time to do an outstanding job of raising a family, work your job, and still volunteer as first responders in your community. The reality is
that the number of volunteer firefighters is dropping. In New York State the number of volunteer responders has dropped from 110,000 in 1990 to 84,000 by 2010, mirroring national trends. Thanks to various state organizations, efforts have been made to recruit and retain new members. Visit FASNY.com and look at their RecruitNY program. One of the problems with new recruits is that they soon realize their heart is in the right place, but the reality of meeting today’s rigorous training schedule may not be as easy as it appeared when they signed up to become part of your department. There are approximately 1,160,400 firefighters serving in 27,198 fire departments nationwide and responding to emergencies from 58,150 fire stations. Of those firefighters, 30 percent were career firefighters and 70 percent were volunteers. As the number of calls increase each year, departments are giving thought to combination departments. Many departments have met their EMS needs by having paid crews available 24hours a day, seven-days a week. Yet, departments still have to be creative to answer multiple EMS calls that happen when the paid crew is not available. In 2019, I ask that all volunteer first
responders give thought to their dedication and commitment to the communities that they serve. Being a first responder is not a joke and requires that you take your job seriously. Whether you live in an area that has a full-time paid fire department, a combination department or an all-volunteer fire department, the job is the same. In 2019, take the time to recommit yourself to protecting the life and property of the people you serve, along with protecting our environment. Have a safe, healthy and happy new year! Dennis
Freeport Commissions a New Rig
On November 17, 2018, the officers and members of Freeport Bayview Hose Company No. 3 held a dedication ceremony for the new 213 which was recently placed into service. The new rig replaces the company’s 1993 Seagrave which served them well for many years. On hand were members of the village board, local dignitaries, and firefighters from Freeport and surrounding fire departments. The best of luck to the company with their new rig. - Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com
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(Left to right): Michael Belmont, Board member of the Heather Pendergast Foundation, Joe Noto, Zack Ney, Cochairs of the 2018 Community Drill and Tom Pendergast, founder of the Heather Pendergast Foundation.
Bayville Donates Proceeds from Charity Drill to Local Charities The Bayville Fire Company announced that it has donated $11,450, raised at the Annual Charity Drill, to local community organizations. The Charity Drill, which was held on July 21, 2018, included hooking up hydrants and fire hoses, climbing ladders and the ever-popular old-fashioned bucket brigade. Proceeds from the charity event are distributed to local community groups and will also be used to provide educational scholarships for two students who graduate in 2019. Money was raised from team entry fees, sponsorships, the sale of food and a 50/50 raffle. The $11,450 proceeds will be divided as follows: two $1,000 scholarships to two students from the Locust Valley High School who graduate in 2019; The Mike Hallquest Memorial Fund — supporting the family of former fire chief, Mike Hallquest from Sea Cliff who passed away in January 2018; The Heather Pendergast Fund, which has a mission to assist sick children of firefighters. Proceeds from the 50/50 raffle were donated to Ricky’s Row Fund, a local charity that is focused on raising awareness to address the opioid crisis. “Donating the proceeds of our Charity Drill allows these caring organizations to fund outreach programs that benefit those in need and creates a better community,” said Zack Ney, co-Chair of the Charity Drill. - Fire News photos provided
Laura Hallquest, with her children (Emily and Nicholas) received a donation to the Mike Hallquest Fund which was set up to support the family of former Chief of the Sea Cliff Fire Department. Mike lost a long-fought battle with cancer in early 2018. Pictured are Laura Hallquest (holding Nicholas), Emily, Joe Noto and Zack Ney, co-Chairs of the 2018 Charity Drill.
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Cover Story
Hempstead House Fire
On the afternoon of November 17, 2018, the Hempstead Fire Department was dispatched to a house fire on Thorne Avenue off Henry Street. Firefighters were met with heavy fire on the second floor of a 2-1/2 story private dwelling. Among the departments mutual aided were Rockville Centre, Uniondale, South Hempstead, Roosevelt, Baldwin and West Hempstead. One firefighter was transported to an area hospital with non-lifethreatening injuries. All fire department units were under the command of Hempstead Chief of Department Giardino. - Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com and FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Westhampton Beach House Fire
The Westhampton Beach Fire Department responded to a structure fire on Oak Street in Westhampton Beach on November 15, 2018. Captain Larry Saccente was the first on scene and communicated to base that there was a working fire. Engine 7-8-1 arrived followed by Ladder 7-8-6. Firefighters laid hoses and quickly extinguished the fire which was contained to the rear portion of the house. Another
team searched the premises including the basement, but found no victims. Chief Billy Dalton was in command at the scene. Eastport and East Moriches also responded, and Quogue stood by at Westhampton Beach. The Westhampton Beach Police and Westhampton Ambulance also responded. - Fire News story by Chief Billy Dalton; photo by John Neely
FFs Get Lucky at Springs Fire
On November 25, 2018, the Springs Fire Department, with mutual aid from East Hampton and Amagansett, battled a structure fire in an unoccupied residence on Old Stone Highway in the Springs section of East Hampton. The fire appeared to have been electrical in origin, and began in the basement wall and ceiling and burned along the basement ceiling, resulting in the loss of a roughly eight-foot-square section of the
living room floor. As the crew on the first attack line forced and entered the front door, the smoke was down to the floor, resulting in near-zero visibility; it was only good fortune that prevented them from crawling into the hole. Fortunately, there were no injuries, and the East Hampton Town Fire Marshal’s Office was on scene to investigate the fire’s cause and origin. - Fire News photos by Michael Heller
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East Meadow House Fire The East Meadow Fire Department responded to a house fire on Friends Lane in Westbury on November 12, 2018. Firefighters were met with a heavy fire condition on the first floor with radiant heat from flames extending to a neighbor’s home. Three occupants were able to escape the home suffering from smoke inhalation. Nassau Police ambulances transported the patients to Nassau University Medical Center in East Meadow. Mutual aid came from Westbury, Hicksville and Levittown. Nassau County Police and Fire Marshals were on scene to investigate the cause. - Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
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House Gutted in Central Islip Blaze On November 23, 2018, the Central Islip Fire Department was activated for a reported residential structure fire on Anne Lane. Commanding units were met with heavy fire showing. Mutual aid was requested from Hauppauge, East Brentwood and Islip Terrace. Crews worked in frigid temperatures to battle the blaze, which gutted the home. No injuries were reported. Command requested a fire marshal to the scene for an investigation. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Pets Die in Sayville Fire On November 20, 2018, the Sayville Fire Department was activated for a residential structure fire on Claire Lane. Commanding units were met with heavy fire showing from the front of the home and requested mutual aid from Holbrook, Bayport and West Sayville. The fire was placed under control in approximately 30 minutes. Multiple pets were removed from the home, but unfortunately didn’t survive. No other injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Central Islip House Fire The Central Islip Fire Department was alerted for a residential structure fire on Smith Street at 0555 on November 4, 2018. Chief of Department Patrick Murphy arrived and advised of smoke showing. Fire was found in a second-floor bedroom and crews contained the blaze to that portion of the home. Mutual aid was provided by East Brentwood and Islip Terrace. The Islip Town Marshall’s Office was requested to respond, and the Central IslipHauppauge Ambulance Company was on scene but no injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by Charles A. Murphy, CIFD Photo Unit
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Overnight Fight in Garden City
Garden City firefighters were on the scene of a fire in a building on Commercial Avenue near Clinton Road late on November 15, 2018. Units were called to the scene just after 2300 and found flames coming from the warehouse-type building. The blaze was brought under control around 0015 the next morning. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com and K2MPhotography.com
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2 Fires in Under a Day for Hempstead The Hempstead Fire Department was called to a house fire on Elmwood Avenue off Oakmont Avenue shortly before 0100 on November 7, 2018. Units arrived to smoke from a second-floor window of a two-story private dwelling. Rockville Centre, South Hempstead and West Hempstead also responded. Firefighters quickly knocked down the fire, which was the department’s second in less than 24 hours. All fire department units were under the command of Hempstead Chief of Department Giardino. - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com
Elmont Attic Fire The Elmont Fire Department responded for a fire in a private dwelling on Hunnewell Avenue on November 7, 2018. A small fire in the attic was quickly extinguished and companies went back in service. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
That Could Have Been Worse On November 2, 2018, the North Massapequa Fire Department responded to a car fire on the northbound Bethpage State Parkway by the Southern State Parkway. Chief of Department Joseph Pesale, Jr., was first on the scene and removed an oxygen tank from the burning car before units arrived and the crew from Engine and Hose 2 extinguished the fire, which caused heavy damage to the car’s interior. - Fire News photo by Immsterfirephotos.com
Multiple Departments Respond to LIE On November 3, 2018, the Plainview, Syosset and Melville Fire Departments were alerted for a car fire on the westbound Long Island Expressway by Round Swamp Road. The car was fully involved upon Syosset Engine 585’s arrival, followed by Plainview Engine 9544 and Melville’s engine. - Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
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Uh-Oh. Somebody Bayport Structure Fire Didn’t Get Something for Christmas
Late on December 5, 2018, the Dix Hills Fire Department was activated for a vehicle fire on the eastbound portion of the Long Island Expressway near exit 51. Upon arrival, commanding units were met with an active fire showing from the rear of a FedEx truck fully loaded with packages. The fire was quickly extinguished by the first-due engine. Crews worked to remove all the damaged packages from the trailer. No injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
On October 27, 2018, the Bayport Fire Department was activated for a structure fire on Snedecor Avenue. Assistant Chief Jerry Dietz arrived to a fire in an occupied, single-story cottage rear. All occupants were confirmed out of the building. Two lines were placed into operation and the fire was placed under control in just over 30 minutes. Units were under the command of Chief Paul Dolce. Sayville Community Ambulance stood by with two ambulances and mutual aid was requested from Blue Point, Sayville and Holbrook. - Fire News photo by Bob Fleming
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North Amityville House Fire
Firefighters operated at the scene of a working house fire on Ronald Drive South in the North Amityville Fire Company fire district on December 5, 2018. Three handlines were put into operation to battle heavy fire throughout a two-story private dwelling. Among the departments called were Copiague, Farmingdale, East Farmingdale, Amityville and Wyandanch-Wheatley Heights Ambulance Corps. The scene was placed under control within one hour and the cause of the fire was under investigation. - Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com and Paul Mazza
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Transitional Attack in East Meadow On December 5, 2018, the East Meadow Fire Department was alerted to a report of a house fire on Marlboro Street. Chief Phil Fertitta arrived to find a basement fire in a two-story Cape Cod, with fire out the front door. Engine 612 arrived, dropped two 1-3/4 inch lines and proceeded to the nearest hydrant. Within minutes after the Chief’s arrival, all six of East Meadow’s companies had filled the street, and entries were made through the exposure 4 exterior basement entrance, and the first-floor front entrance. Using a transitional fire attack, firefighters knocked down the exterior fire and switched to an interior attack as additional resources arrived. Within 15 minutes, all visible fire had been knocked down as the truck continued to pull ceilings and walls, and the engine extinguished the hot spots. Rescue Company 5 established a medical treatment area where one person, a construction worker, was evaluated, and transported to the Nassau University Medical Center by Wantagh Ambulance 6918. Although the second floor was spared of fire, damage to the basement and first floor was extensive. The home was under renovation at the time. Mutual aid came from Levittown, North Bellmore, North Merrick, Wantagh, Uniondale, Hicksville, Westbury, and Bellmore, most of whom covered. The EMFD Ladies Auxiliary was on scene to distribute much-needed energy fluids. - Fire News photos by Kevin Imm and Paul Mazza, story by John J. O’Brien, Sr.
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Dryer Fire in Deer Park On December 1, 2018, around noon the Deer Park Fire Department responded to a dryer fire on Oak Street off of Deer Park Avenue. Units arrived to heavy smoke condition. The dryer was filled with clothes that were on fire and the lint holder was completely filled along with the exhaust hose. After a hand line extinguished the fire, firefighters set up fans to vent. - Fire News photos by BTFirePhoto.com
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Quick Work in Hempstead
The Hempstead Fire Department responded to a fire on December 14, 2018. The blaze appeared to have started on the first floor of the two-story home on Baldwin Road near Weir Street. Companies arrived and quickly knocked down the flames. Chief Mike Vogt (7600) from West Hempstead was in doing a search when he came across an unconscious kitten. He exited the house with the kitten and went to waiting EMS and gave the kitten oxygen. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com and Bill D’Alessandro
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Fatality at Massapequa Fire
On November 27, 2018, the Massapequa Fire Department responded to a house fire on Martin Street in East Massapequa. Engine 6314 found a fully involved garage fire in a split-level home. Chief of Department Stansberry was in charge. After knocking down the fire, department members found the home owner in the garage; he had succumbed from the fire. Nassau Police and the Fire Marshals responded for an investigation. South Farmingdale’s ladder responded to the scene as the FAST. Two Massapequa firefighters sustained injuries and were treated at the scene. - Fire News photos by Ed Tuffy and Paul Mazza
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Valley Stream House Fire Snuffed Valley Stream units were called to the report of smoke coming from the house on East Fairview Avenue on November 26, 2018. Companies discovered a fire on the second floor of the private dwelling and the blaze was extinguished. Mutual aid companies also responded. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Bathroom Fire in Hicksville On October 5, 2018, just before midnight, the Hicksville Fire Department was dispatched for a bathroom fire on Brooks Street South. Units arrived to a fire on the second floor. Numerous units from Hicksville and surrounding departments helped to extinguish the fire, which was quickly placed under control. - Fire News photo by OverTheEdgePhotography.com
Hempstead Laundry Fire The Hempstead Fire Department responded to the report of smoke in a commercial laundry on Newmans Court in the early morning of November 19, 2018. Units discovered a fire in a commercial dryer with extension to the roof area. Mutual aid companies were called to the scene to assist. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos
Plainview Attic Fire Extends On November 5, 2018, the Plainview Fire Department was alerted for an attic fire on Thomas Lane. Arriving units found a heavy smoke condition coming from a two-story home. As crews advanced the line through the front door, the truck company opened the ceiling on the first floor and were met with heavy fire that vented through the roof. Multiple mutual aid was called and the fire was brought under control a short time later. Two birds were rescued from the home and no injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
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Predicting the Future It’s December 8, 2018, as I submit this safety tip for January 2019. According to the United States Fire Administration (USFA) we have had 80 Line of Duty Deaths (LODDs). If this number can hold for the remainder of year we, as Safety Officers, along with many others working to reduce LODDs, will have accomplished something. However, based on all previous records from the USFA, we will have 10 more LODDs before the year end. Six to seven will be cardiac related, one or two a vehicle crash, and another one a collapse in an unoccupied building. Because this is the way it has been going for over 20 years, predictions can be made. Can we predict 2019 LODD deaths? We can. Let us say 65 will be cardiac related, 15 vehicle crashes, five in building collapses and the rest “other.” As SOs, we sometimes feel our hands are tied and there is nothing we can do. Fortunately, there is a lot we can do. Every day we
“We must also keep working on the reduction of cardiac incidents...this is our biggest killer of first responders. Heart disease does not pair well with firefighting. Increased medical exams and more thorough exams will uncover the fitness of our first responders.” are saving lives and reducing injuries, we just cannot measure it. A while ago a first responder was killed while directing traffic at an MVA. The firefighter had no formal training, was not wearing an approved vest, there was no safety officer on scene, no road blocking apparatus, no Health and Safety Officer (HSO) in the agency and no safety program for the agency. Thanks to a member of the Brookhaven Town Safety Officers Association (BTSOA) I was able to get this information. So, your safety officer’s gear; helmet, safety officer shield, safety officer vest and turn out coat with the word “safety” displayed. Maybe a Safety Officer Response vehicle. You see a first responder not wearing a vest in the roadway, you remind everyone to wear their vest, and you had training for a Safety Officer. You are aware of the need for a blocking vehicle and have one on scene. You check with the Incident Commander to assure a rehab is set up and you inspect it to make sure it is adequate. Your agency has an HSO and you have a safety program which gives your agency a safety culture. You attend meetings with other safety officers and exchange ideas and share different viewpoints. The MVA is completed, “everyone goes home.” This happens many times at MVAs, structure fires, etc. There is no one there saying thanks to you. You are part of the operation and it is because of your willingness to keep our brothers and sisters safe, that “everyone goes home.” We must also keep working on the reduction of cardiac incidents. As you are undoubtedly aware, this is the biggest killer of first responders. Heart disease does not pair well with firefighting. Increased medical exams and more thorough exams will uncover the fitness of our first responders. There are many jobs in the career and volunteer fire service that do not put a strain on your heart. Everything from mentors, instructors, to fire prevention officers. If we keep working towards LODD reduction it will happen. To all the Safety Officers, I know what you’re up against, keep up the good work, you are an unsung hero. WATCH ME, WATCH YOU! Ex-Chief Jeff Bailes President Brookhaven Town Safety Officers Association, Inc. www.btsoa.org 631-495-1313
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West Hempstead Car Fire
West Hempstead fire units extinguished a vehicle fire on Hempstead Avenue near Lindberg Street on December 3, 2018. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com and Bill D’Alessandro
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AcetyleneFueled Fire in Plainview
On November 14, 2018, at 0118, the Plainview Fire Department was alerted for a building fire on West Ames Court. Arriving units found an acetylenefueled fire in a warehouse. Multiple lines were stretched and mutual aid came from Syosset and Jericho. The Nassau County Fire Marshals HazMat unit was called and secured the burning tanks. No injuries were reported. - Fire News photos by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
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15 Displaced by Brentwood Blaze
The Brentwood Fire Department was called to a house fire on Hewes Street on December 2, 2018. Second Assistant Chief Kelly arrived to heavy fire showing from the basement on the exposure 3 side of a two-story house. First Assistant Chief Boyle and Third Assistant Chief Renison arrived shortly after. Engine 3-2-12 stretched three lines with two going into operation. The crews from Ladder 3-2-18 and Heavy Rescue 3-2-18 laddered, vented and searched the home. The occupants and a dog in the house were able to escape the house prior to the fire department’s arrival. East Brentwood was called to the scene for an additional ladder while units from Commack and Central Islip stood by. It took about an hour to bring the fire under control and its cause was under investigation. The Red Cross was called to house 15 people displaced by the fire. - Fire News photos by Paul Mazza
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EMS ACROSS THE ISLAND
Hauppauge HazMat Spill On the night of November 16, 2018, the Hauppauge Fire Department was activated for a hazmat spill at the intersection of Old Willets Path and Oser Avenue inside the Hauppauge Industrial Park. Units were met with a suspicious unidentifiable blue liquid in the roadway. Command requested the Smithtown Fire Marshal and Town of Islip HazMat team to the scene for an investigation. No injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Gas Line Struck in Syosset On November 7, 2018, the Syosset Fire Department responded to a gas main leak after workers struck a misidentified gas line on Lorraine Street. The utility company shut off the gas and crews checked area houses for any abnormal gas readings. - Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Riverhead EMS in Action On the morning of November 27, 2018, the Riverhead Volunteer Ambulance Corps was activated to standby at the scene of a fire at Glenwood Village. Riverhead Volunteer Ambulance Corps Director John Mazzucca administered oxygen to one of the cats that escaped the fire. Riverhead Fire Department exCaptain Jay McCue holds the cat during treatment. - Fire News photo by Peter Blasl
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Melville Heavy Rescue MVA The Melville Fire Department responded to an MVA Heavy Rescue car versus tractor-trailer on September 21, 2018, on Route 110 and Spagnoli Road. Crews used heavy rescue extrication tools to free the driver of the car, who was transported to Nassau University Medical Center by the Melville Rescue Squad. Units were under the command of Assistant Chief David Kaplan, Bill Schmitt and Jason Bernfeld. - Fire News story by Steve Silverman, photo courtesy Melville FD
We’ve Heard the Dog Ate My Homework, But ‌ On October 25, 2018, the Deer Park Fire Department responded to a car into a house on Half Hollow Road. The driver had lost control when her dog caused the driver to accelerate and crash into large rocks that lifted the car upward into the front of the house. The driver was not hurt and refused medical attention. - Fire News photos by BTFirePhoto.com
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New Hyde Park MVA New Hyde Park firefighters and EMS personnel responded to an MVA on Covert Avenue on October 22, 2018, when a small SUV lost control and smashed into a traffic signal pole. The driver did not appear to be injured. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
2 Hurt in Hicksville MVA On October 24, 2018, the Hicksville Fire Department responded to a two-car MVA on Woodbury Road near Fountain Street. Two people were injured and Woodbury Road was closed eastbound for about 30 minutes. - Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
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Eastport MVA On September 28, 2018, a car and a school bus with children on board collided on Montauk Highway, between Tuttle Avenue and Pleasant Valley Road. The Eastport Fire Department, Westhampton War Memorial Ambulance, and Southampton Town Police responded. At least eight students were reportedly injured. - Fire News photo by LIHotShots.smugmug.com
Pedestrian Hit in Shirley On September 26, 2018, the southbound lanes of the William Floyd Parkway were closed at Havenwood Drive after a person was struck and critically injured. The Suffolk Police, Shirley Ambulance and Mastic Beach Fire Department responded. The force of the impact caused the windshield to shatter on the car that allegedly struck the person. - Fire News photo by LIHotShots.smugmug.com
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DWI MVA in Moriches On September 23, 2018, the Center Moriches Fire Department, Suffolk Police and ESU responded to an alleged DWI MVA on Mirror Lane, at the entrance to Heatherwood Communities, off Jerusalem Hollow Road. One person was extricated from the vehicle by first responders and taken to a local hospital via fire department ambulance. The vehicle was impounded by police. The small SUV was heading eastbound on Mirror Lane in Moriches struck a security gate barrier and overturned. The driver was transported to Long Island Community Hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries, was arrested and charged with DWI. - Fire News photo by LIHotShots.smugmug.com
Yaphank MVA The person driving an SUV was injured during a collision with a sedan on September 19, 2018, at the intersection of Longwood Road and William Floyd Parkway. The Ridge Fire Department and Suffolk Police responded. The injured person was taken to the hospital via fire department ambulance. - Fire News photo by LIHotShots.smugmug.com
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3-Car MVA in Garden City
Only minor injuries were incurred after an accident involving three vehicles at the intersection of First Street and Cathedral Avenue in Garden City on October 21, 2018. Garden City firefighters along with village police and county EMS units were on the scene. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
2 Injured at Hicksville MVA
On October 24, 2018, the Hicksville Fire Department responded to an MVA at the intersection of Woodbury Road and Fountain Street. Crews secured the vehicles and two people were transported to a local hospital. - Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
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Pinned in East Meadow MVA On October 27, 2018, the East Meadow Fire Department responded to a three-car MVA with pin on North Newbridge Road. Crews put hydraulic tools to work and extricated the driver through the passenger door. Two people were transported to Nassau University Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries. - Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Overturn MVA in South Hempstead On November 8, 2018, the South Hempstead Fire Department was dispatched to an MVA with overturn on Beech Street. Firefighters arrived to a twocar accident. One vehicle was parked and not occupied, while the second was on its roof. The driver of the overturned vehicle was able to self-extricate and was not seriously injured. Engine 741 and Ambulances 743 and 743A responded. All fire department units were under the command of South Hempstead Chief of Department John Kelly. - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com
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Fire News, January 2019, Page 37
2 Injured in Car vs. 7-11 The West Babylon Fire Department responded to an accident at the 7-11 store on Straight Path Road on the afternoon of October 31, 2018. Second Assistant Chief Vergano arrived and confirmed the car had gone into the store. The driver lost control and crashed into the front of the store seriously injuring a customer at the counter and caused minor injuries to an employee. The crews from 1-9-2 and 15 secured the vehicle and stabilized the area of the building affected. The injured were taken to Good Samaritan Hospital. - Fire News photo by Paul Mazza
Overturned Van in North Patchogue The North Patchogue Fire Department responded to the scene of an MVA on East Main Street in East Patchogue on November 8, 2018, along with an ambulance from North Patchogue. One person was injured in the crash. Firefighters had a difficult time getting the person out of the overturned van. Patients were transported to Long Island Community Hospital. - Fire News photo by Dennis Berger
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Manorville M/C, Car MVA Suffolk Police and Aviation, the Manorville Fire Department and Manorville Ambulance responded to a car and motorcycle MVA at the intersection of Wading River Road/Schultz Road and North Street. The motorcyclist was airlifted to Stony Brook University Hospital. - Fire News photo by LIHotShots.smugmug.com
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Mastic Handles 3-Car MVA Recently, the Mastic Fire Department was called out for an MVA on the northbound William Floyd Parkway and McGraw Street in Shirley. Three vehicles were involved and there were no life-threatening injuries. Mastic Chief Rudy Sunderman was first to arrive. Also on scene were Mastic Ambulance and Suffolk County Police. - Fire News photo by Jim Rugen
Overturn in Medford
Pinned in Hicksville
Around 2030 on October 20, 2018, the Medford Fire Department responded to a single-car MVA on Horseblock Road just east of Old Medford Avenue. Medford Fire and Ambulance responded. No injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by Amanda Coffey
On November 7, 2018, the Hicksville Fire Department was alerted by Fire-Com for an MVA with pin at the intersection of Woodbury Road and East Street. Arriving units found the pinned driver was self-extricated and transported one person to the hospital. - Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
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9 Injured in Franklin Square 3-Car MVA Nine people were injured in a three-vehicle accident on Franklin Avenue near Adams Avenue in Franklin Square on November 17, 2018. The accident caused two vehicles to strike each other head-on. The Franklin Square Fire Department and Nassau County Police ambulances transported the injured to area hospitals. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
First Snow Results in 11 Injured in Farmingville MVA On November 15, 2018, the Farmingville Fire Department was activated for an MVA with reported entrapment at the intersection of Horseblock Road and Wanda Terrace. Upon arrival, Assistant Chief Dom Russo was met with a full-size school bus that had collided with an SUV. He advised dispatch of negative entrapment. Mutual aid was requested from Holtsville and Selden for ambulances. Chief Russo requested the MERV from FRES to the scene due to the number of patients. A total of 11 patients were transported to local hospitals for injuries. The crew of Rescue 9 secured the vehicles. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
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Fire News, January 2019, Page 43
Car Carrier Overturn in Holtsville On November 11, 2018, the Holtsville Fire Department was activated for an MVA with overturn of a tractor trailer on the off ramp of southbound Nicolls Road near the Long Island Expressway. Upon arrival, Assistant Chief Adam Sclafani was met with an overturned motor vehicle carrier carrying three vehicles on its trailer, and advised the operator of the vehicle was self extricated. The driver was then transported to Stony Brook University Hospital via a Holtsville Ambulance for his injuries. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
Car Rear Ends Jitney in East Hampton At roughly 0040 on the morning of November 10, 2018, members of the East Hampton Fire Department's “White Knights� Heavy Rescue Squad were called to the bus stop on Main Street in front of the Palm Restaurant for a report of an MVA with entrapment. Arriving units found a fourdoor sedan had rear-ended a Hampton Jitney bus, and proceeded to use extrication tools to remove the occupants from the car. - Fire News photo by Michael Heller
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Commissioner Joe Williams: Enjoy Retirement!
A retirement party was held October 10, 2018, at Holbrook Fire Department in honor of Joseph Williams who served as commissioner for Suffolk County Fire Rescue Emergency Services (FRES) for the past 14 years. Commissioner Williams was the longest serving FRES commissioner in the county’s history. Various organizations from Suffolk County emergency services along with County Executive Steve Bellone were on hand to pay tribute and make presentations. - Fire News photos by Joseph C. Sperber
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She Said Yes! On November 29, 2018, Firefighter Justin Russo of Farmingville’s Ladder and Rescue Company 1 invited his girlfriend Jessica to watch him and a few of the brothers train as they rappelled 90 feet from the bucket of Tower Ladder 7. What Jessica didn’t know, is that when Justin reached the ground he would get down on one knee to ask for her hand in marriage. She very happily said yes! Family and company members were present to congratulate the happy couple. - Fire News photos by Bryan Lopez and Amanda Coffey
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Fire News, January 2019, Page 47
Kicking Off the Season in Yaphank The 10th Annual Yaphank Fire Department Christmas Parade was held on December 1, 2018. This parade, along with the Yaphank Civic Association tree lighting, has become a tradition in the Yaphank and Longwood community and kicks off the holiday season. Grand Marshal of the parade was Bret Peterson, a member of the Yaphank Fire Department and Honorary Captain of Companies 1, 2, 3 and 4. Bret is a lifelong resident of Yaphank and a beloved member of the community who is known by all. He is very active in the department and is always there to lend a hand to anyone who needs it. Farmingville, Manorville, Mastic, Middle Island and Ridge participated in the parade along with Yaphank. Manorville won the top prize for Best Decorated Firetruck. - Fire News photos by Tim Edward
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Food Baskets Help Westhampton Beach Community The Westhampton Beach Ladies Auxiliary put together food baskets to help some local families in need for Thanksgiving. Thanks go to Joy Makarewicz, Rena Mootoo, Pat Gonce, Debbie Dalessio, Elise Tomashoff, Felicia Williford, Michele Marshpalumbi, Meena Chockalingam, Erica Olsen and Cody Hoyle. - Fire News photo by Westhampton Beach FD
Fundraising Game for PTA and Wounded Warriors On November 10, 2018, the Lynbrook Baptist Church played their annual fundraising basketball game against Lynbrook firefighters to benefit Nassau County Firefighters Operation Wounded Warrior and the Lynbrook PTA. This is the third year this game has taken place in the Lynbrook High School gym. The firefighters won an exciting, well-fought game which raised over $8530. The firefighters now lead 2-1 in the series. Pictured are Pastor Robert Walderman, center, of the Lynbrook Baptist Church presenting (from left): Suzanne DiBenedetto, PTA president of Lynbrook High School; and Kelly Murray, President of Lynbrook Council of PTA; with a check for $4265, as Lynbrook Firefighters Kevin Bien and Steve Grogan accept their $4265 check to help our wounded warriors. - Fire News story by Steve Grogan; photo by Sal Dantona
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Glen Cove Inspection The Glen Cove Fire Department hosted their annual inspection of the department. The department was inspected by the mayor and city council as well as other government officials and judged by the chiefs and officers of neighboring departments. This year, Glen Cove Hook and Ladder Company 1 won the award for Best Appearing Company for the last time with the current 5211. In addition to the inspection, this year, the department honored the newest 50-year member, ex-Captain Gilbert Tanaka of Company 4. Ex-Captain Tanaka received numerous citations and awards from the City of Glen Cove and numerous other elected officials including US Congressman Tom Suozzi. Congratulations to Hook and Ladder on their victory and to exCaptain Tanaka on his 50 years of service to the department! -Fire News photos by OverTheEdgePhotography.com
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Fire News, January 2019, Page 51
Vietnam Veterans Helping Wounded Warriors Steve Grogan, right, of the Lynbrook Fire Department, and a Vice-Chairman of Nassau County Firefighters Operation Wounded Warrior, is presented with a $500 donation from Commander Robert Kohler, on behalf of the Vietnam War Veterans Association (VWVA), Nassau County Chapter, to help the firefighters' efforts to help our wounded servicemen and women here on Long island and in hospitals and rehabilitation units. Nassau’s firefighters, in two fire vehicle caravans dubbed the “Long Red Line,” started traveling to the hospitals and rehab units at Bethesda, Fort Belvoir, Fort Bragg and Camp Lejeune on December 5, 2018, to bring Christmas to the wounded and their families. - Fire News photo by Walter Geary, VWVA
Lacrosse Red vs. Blue Blue Wins On October 5, 2018, the Nassau County Firefighters Lacrosse Club and the Nassau County Police Lacrosse Club competed in the first ever Lions Cup at Cantiague Park in Hicksville. After four quarters, the Nassau County Police Lacrosse Club defeated the Nassau County Firefighters Lacrosse Club to win the Lions Cup. - Fire News photo by OverTheEdgePhotography.com
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SCVFA Honors Firefighter of the Year
On October 20, 2018, the Suffolk County Volunteer Firemen’s Association held their Annual Installation and Awards Dinner. Congratulations to President Frank Guarino of the Hagerman Fire Department as he leads the organization in 2019. Good luck to Vice-Presidents Robert Sutton (Central Isli), Peter Cincotta (Selden), and Vincent Ammirati (Selden); Financial Secretary William Rowse (Patchogue); Treasurer Robert McConville (Selden); Sergeant-at-Arms Meryl Montrose (St. James); and to Secretary Jean Chirstiansen; as they work together in 2019. Thank you to outgoing President Chris Delvecchio for his unwavering dedication to the organization in 2017-2018. Congratulations to the 2019 Ladies Auxiliary Officers: President Jean Christensen (West Sayville), Vice-President Mary Beth Asbell (Holbrook), Recording Secretary Barbara Clute (Setauket), Corresponding Secretary Doreene DeRuiter (Lindenhurst), Financial Secretary Carole Reeve (West Sayville) and Treasurer Jeannette McInerney (Setauket). After the Installation of officers, Chairman Roger Putnam hosted the Firefighter of the Year Presentation. Congratulations to the 2018 Firefighter of the Year Peter DiPinto, Sr. Firefighter DiPinto was honored for his heroic rescue that saved the life of a driver whose car was in the path of an oncoming train. FF DiPinto pulled the woman to safety from her car only seconds before the car was struck by the moving train. - Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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Bohemia’s 34th Annual Christmas Parade
The Bohemia Fire Department continued its long-standing tradition of brightening up the town with its annual parade of lights recently. Even a little inclement weather didn’t discourage the many spectators who lined the parade route to get a glimpse of the many floats, decorated fire trucks and ambulances, civic organizations as well as local scouting groups. Of course, Santa Claus was the big attraction as he made his way through town to greet all of his adoring fans. The parade also included a visit from Frosty, Rudolph the Rednose Reindeer, the Gingerbread Man and many of Santa’s helpers. - Fire News release by Sue Orlando, PIO, Bohemia FD; photos by Ron Pacchiana, JPA Studio
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Layers Like a Sweet, Vidalia Onion
By Pastor Thomas Flander, Jr., Chaplain New York State Association of Fire Chaplains, Inc. I love life. I love to serve the Lord, and through serving Him, I find great pleasure in serving my community. I have served the EMS and fire service since the 1990s. With everything that I personally do, I try to put in 100-percent effort. That is the Type A personality in me. I had been serving as a pastor in my community, and I was also serving as a volunteer in our village’s fire department. When the Fonda village board dissolved the 139-year-old fire department to have the Town of Mohawk take over, I realized this was not the time to walk away. Instead, I saw this as an opportunity — an opportunity to apply God’s word in a larger setting, with out of the box thinking. The Mohawk Fire Department (MFD) is nestled in a somewhat quiet community — quiet, but busy — in a beautiful area of central New York that encompasses the Mohawk River, Erie Canal, farming communities, a variety of mills, the Adirondack Mountains, and Fulton-Montgomery Community College. The MFD, with approximately 40 members, never had a chaplain. I relied on God’s word, especially the Gospel of John, Chapter 15 Verse 13, KJV (King James Version) “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” And with that in mind (literally, for I have that scripture tacked to the inside of my helmet), I have set out to fulfill this. I view a chaplain as being more than one dimensional, more than saying the prayer over the company dinners. I view a chaplain as an onion (a sweet, Vidalia onion), with many layers that will be shown as the season wills. As a chaplain in my fire district, I have set goals for myself. 1) To have the chiefs respect and value the chaplain’s role. 2) For chaplains to not be judgmental. 3) To be a very efficient role model for the department. 4) To be someone who is easily approachable and enjoyable to be around — a trusted friend and confidant. It starts with how to relate to the members of your department to build a trust. For me, one way of doing this was to take the same course work that they were taking, or had taken. This allows me to relate to them on a critical, stressful scene. Second, allow the members to be who they are. “Judge not, that ye be not judged.” (Matthew 7:1, KJV). Judging is not in my job description. But being a voice of reason, or lending a compassionate ear, is. Third, let members see the real you, mistakes and all. Laugh when it's time to laugh, cry when it's time to cry, and work when it's time to work. Don't be afraid to get your hands dirty. Be there with them. Fourth, be their spiritual advisor in their time of need, whether they believe in God or not. “Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.” (James 1:19, KJV). Fifth, take care of yourself. Every time we gather and every scene that we as a fire service are on brings something unexpected to the table. Approximately a year ago, I joined the Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) team of Montgomery County and what a difference it has made for me. It has been beneficial to obtain the tools needed to cope with the things that we see in the fire service, and it has been rewarding to be able to help other first responders deal with crises in their lives. Recently, our department was hit with a crisis no one could foresee. Within a few months of each other, two of our longstanding, active firefighters were diagnosed with cancer, and both quickly succumbed to the disease. These men were older, wiser sages and mentors to everyone, including me. But more than that, they were father figures. They knew how to lighten up a room when the mood was too serious. They were the ones who would get things done. This is still a struggle for me and my family. To all of you who are struggling in the fire service with critical incident stress management, I want to tell you that drugs and alcohol are not the way to go. Please don’t keep it in. Find someone to talk with, so the healing process can begin. This piece is an edited version of Thomas Flander’s story which ran in Fire Chiefs Size Up column.
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SCTF-1 Holds MOBEX Drill
Recently, the Suffolk County Fire Academy was the site for Suffolk County’s Urban Search and Rescue (SCTF-1) Task Force’s annual training Mobilization Exercise (MOBEX). This year’s drill was comprised of seven different scenarios testing the technical search skills of the Task Force. They included: working with SCPD canine units to identify potential victims entrapped in a collapse; and working with technical search equipment including camera and listening devices inside a collapse scenario involving trapped persons in a simulated building-rubble pile. While the drill utilized all components of the USAR team (Plans, Medical, Technical, Logistics), the drill was focused primarily to the search component of the team. Designed by a Homeland Security and the SCTF-1 Program Manager and overseen by the SCPD, including Suffolk County Fire Marshall and Task Force Program Manager FM Brett Martinez, the drill was designed to re-familiarize rescue personnel with the specialized equipment utilized by the USAR team, proper use of those tools, and to re-acquaint members with working alongside other members (there are over 110 members on the team from Nassau and Suffolk Counties). The drill was a review of skills learned during a five-day intensive FEMA sponsored Technical Search Class hosted by the Task Force that drew participants from several of the FEMA USAR national response teams. Due to the nature of the work, the risks, frequency of occurrences, skill requirements, tools and such, it is critical that members of both the fire service and the USAR system maintain the highest level of skill and capability — it is what our communities expect from their government agencies. The relationship between USAR and the fire-rescue and emergency service is a natural one and one that is an economy of scale. The Task Force firefighters who are members of the USAR system, take great pride in representing the Task Force community. They recognize their responsibilities and believe deeply in the importance of their participation. We have seen the value that our community has received and continues to receive through participation in this very important service. -Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam, story by J. Olsen, Plans Team- SC TF1
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Curran Signs Legislation Restoring Tuition Assistance for Nassau Volunteer Fire Service Nassau County Executive Laura Curran held a signing of a bi-partisan emergency resolution that was unanimously approved by the Nassau County Legislature to restore funding for tuition assistance to eligible members of the Nassau County volunteer fire service pursuing an education at Nassau Community College, for the remaining 2018 semester and academic year of 2019. “Nothing is more important to us than the public safety of Nassau County’s residents. Our volunteer fire service members are saving lives on the frontlines every day, and it is essential that we support them in every way we can,” said Curran. “This grant provided funding that was an essential tool in recruitment of new volunteer fire service members. I am disappointed that Nassau County was not awarded this critical funding, and I will continue to work with our partners in Federal government to secure these dollars. I commend the County Legislature for their advocacy on this very important issue. I am signing this resolution to ensure that our volunteer fire service has the support they need to increase retention and recruitment and can continue their brave and selfless work.” “I am proud to have sponsored funding of
the SAFER resolution that reinstitutes the tuition assistance incentive for qualified Fire Fighters and Emergency Responders at Nassau County Community College,” said Presiding Officer Richard Nicolello. This legislation was spearheaded by Legislator Siela Bynoe and Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton. “Ensuring these courageous citizens have every opportunity to pursue a brighter future through the opportunities afforded by the SAFER grant program is the least we can do to express our appreciation,” Legislator Siela A. Bynoe (D - Westbury), the lead sponsor of the measure, said. “When the call for help comes, Nassau County’s first responders are always there for us in our hour of need. That’s why it is so important for the Nassau County Legislature to do all we can to support these brave volunteers,” Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton (D -
Glen Cove), said. This funding was previously provided through a $1.6 million multi-year Federal grant from the Department of Homeland Security awarded in 2014 known as "Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response" (SAFER). For the Fall of 2018 semester, there were 177 student participants in the program, 74 of them new. An average of about 200 students have participated each semester since the Fall of 2015 semester, when the grant began. The resolution will require allocation of additional County funds. Curran was joined by members of the Nassau County Legislature, Nassau County Fire Service Academy, and the Nassau County Volunteer Fire Service, and Chief Fire Marshal Scott Tusa, and Commissioner of the Office of Emergency Management Steven Morelli. - Fire News photos provided
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Looking Back - West Hempstead
Victory Chemical Engine and Hose Company, better known as the West Hempstead Fire Department, responded to this house fire on June 6, 1973. - Fire News photos provided by Mike Capoziello
HI-TECH’S KAREN EMORY MANDEL ELECTED TO FEMSA EXECUTIVE BOARD Hi-Tech Fire and Safety, Inc., is proud to announce Vice President Karen Emory Mandel has been elected to the Executive Board of FEMSA. FEMSA is the National Fire Equipment Manufacturer Service Association. She ran for the position at their annual meeting held in Austin, Texas, on September 26, 2018. Karen has been a member of FEMSA for six years and her new position has a three-year term. She is looking forward to working with FEMSA on behalf of her customers and the industry to continue to help improve firefighter safety.
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Fire News, January 2019, Page 59
Firehouse Kitchen with Host Ray Cooney
La Casa Del Fuego! In this first article of 2019, I would like to talk about one of my favorite guests from my last season. His name is Angel Robles from the “Myrtle Turtles” (Engine 286 in Glendale, Queens). Quick little story about the Myrtle Turtles. Engine 286 shares their house with Ladder 135. Back in the early 2000s, my company, Ladder 127, did interchange with them. For those that don't know, the interchange program is when two fire houses would cover each other's area for one night, to give to each fireman a chance to experience different areas of the city. When Ladder 127 arrived at the Myrtle Turtles, we noticed that they had a gourmet coffee machine. This was much different than what we had had out firehouse. We were so excited by this that each man must have had at least five cups of coffee! The next time we did an interchange, mysteriously, the coffee machine was out of order. We later found out this was going to be a recurring phenomenon when we did an interchange. Upon meeting Angel, I told him of this phenomenon and he said, “Yeah, those are my Turtles. They don’t like sharing their coffee.” Back to Angel. His arrival at the set was like a tornado of energy had entered the studio. Big smile, thick Latino accent, and arms covered in tattoos —
this guy was the whole package — and lest we forget, an ex-US Marine and a bona fide chef. When we started filming, we hit it off right away. He made Spanish rice and beans with pan seared and then baked chicken. It was the ultimate Latin meal. His on-camera chemistry was amazing. What was supposed to be a 15-minute cooking segment, wound up being the whole episode. It was at this moment that I was hit with an epiphany! This guy should have his own show! Therefore, be on the lookout for “La Casa del Fuego” (The House of Fire). It is a Latino version of Firehouse Kitchen. Everything is the same as my show, from safety tips to recipes, the only difference is it will be completely in Spanish. Oh, and one major difference: the great Firefighter Ray will not be the host! We just filmed the pilot. I will keep you posted, via Facebook, when and where it will air. Here’s to another year of articles for Fire News and to all my firefighter brothers and sisters, stay safe in 2019. To learn more about Firehouse Kitchen or how to become a sponsor, visit firehousekitchenshow.com. If you would like your firehouse to be on the show, e-mail firehousekitchentv@ gmail.com. Be sure to like us on Facebook.
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Farmingdale Donates to Family On November 29, 2018, the Farmingdale Fire Department made a donation to 16-year-old Cailin Stryska. Cailin is a junior at Farmingdale High School and was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy at the age of one. The donation was to help with rising treatment costs and came from tip jars that the department puts out during the Columbus Weekend Fair. Every year the Farmingdale Fire Department donates the money to a local family in need. (Rear, left to right): Commissioners Reilly, Lopez, Romano and Schumeyer. (Front, left to right): Chief Buser, Jenifer, Cailin, Thomas Stryska and Chief R.Tortoso. - Fire News photo by Philip LoNigro
Bethpage Tree Lighting The Bethpage Fire Department escorted Santa on Ladder 3 to the annual tree lighting ceremony on December 2, 2018. - Fire News photos by Kevin Imm
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Port Jefferson vs. Terryville
Congratulations to the Port Jefferson Fire Department on winning the Annual Turkey Bowl with a score of 5 to 3. The game was held on a very cold Thanksgiving morning. - Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam, group photo provided
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Hicksville Fire Prevention Poster Awards The Hicksville Fire Department held its annual Fire Prevention Poster Awards ceremony at Station 1 on East Marie Street. The winners were as follows. Burns Avenue School: Alexa Lopez, Muhammad Rao, Stephen Chu, Rebecca Benitez and Kara Atieza. Dutch Lane School: Colby Hsiu, Scarlet Kwak, Patrick Cahill, Vincent Liu, and Mitra Wasiq. East Street School: Kanisha Dass, Anishka Dass, Aryanna Matias, Isabell Moran, Sophia Giron and Ryan Gonzales. Fork Lane School: Roslyn Felciano, Ofelia Lopez, Jesiah Asitimbay, Samyta Kibria, Nicole Machowski, Brian Torlincasi, Eli Feinstein, Tara Loftus and Mason Farnoles. Lee Avenue School: Aarav Walia, AAlana Walia, Sophia Kim, Alexis Hilario and Soha Olomi.
Middle School: Anita Shehu, Brianna Lisa, Old Country Road School: Menaal Faisal, Karia Amador, Heidi Diaz Carcamo, Kaylee Lin Edgardo Castro, Kathryn Finocchio and Giovana Ercolino. and December Lefkowitz. High School: Keshveen Kaur, Ariel Veh and Woodland Ave School: Jerilyn Kaval, - Fire News photo Mujhda Azimi, Esther Qu, Elina Lew and Segal Luthra. by ImmsterFirePhotos.com Breanna Delacruz.
Lynbrook Juniors Nassau County 2018 Champs Lynbrook Junior Fire Department has been named 2018 Nassau County Parade Champs by the Nassau County Drill Team Captains Association. This is the fourth time that Lynbrook Juniors have won the honor. Lynbrook Juniors are shown here posing with the First Place four-foot Leg trophy. - Fire News photo by Steve Grogan
Congratulations Long Island Jaguars
The Long Island Jaguars won the USA Senior Softball Winter National Championship 60s AAA division, held in Ft Myers, Florida, in November 2018. The Jaguar team is composed of several firefighters and Suffolk Police. The Jaguars went a perfect 7-0 through the tournament, defeating the Playmakers from Wisconsin 16-8 in the championship game. It was the Jaguars second Winter National Championship in the past three years. (Standing from left to right): Jerry Salata, Brian Lyons (ret, FDNY), Joe Mancini, Jim Goezl (Nesconset, FDNY), John Farrell (SCPD), Dave Didio (Bellport, ret. FDNY), Jim Kiernan (ret. FDNY), Charlie Owens, Byron Bodine (FDNY), Todd O’Brien (ret. FDNY), John Newton (SCPD), Joel Riech (Manager). (Kneeling left to right): Jim O’Gara, Gary Richter, Lenny Glover (SCPD), Mike Cohen, Jim McDowell (Terryville), Rick Caravaggio. - Fire News photo provided
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Oyster Bay, East Norwich Dedicate Apparatus
The Oyster Bay Fire Company 1 and East Norwich Fire Company hosted a joint wetdown of their new Ferrara Tower Ladders, 516 and 554. East Norwich 516 is a 2018 Ferrara Inferno HD-85 Midmount Tower Ladder which replaces a 2000 KME 95-foot Tower Ladder. Oyster Bay 554 is a 2017 Ferrara Inferno HD-100
Midmount Tower Ladder with a 2000 GPM Hale QMax Pump which replaces a 1996 Sutphen 100-foot Tower Ladder. Both of these trucks were placed into service earlier this year but dedicated together this weekend. - Fire News photos by OverTheEdgePhotography.com
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Family Corner
Huntington Fire Department Family, (left to right): 1st Lieutenant Jesse Kitzen, Commissioner Andy Kitzen, and 2nd Lieutenant Benjamin Kitzen. - Fire News photo provided by Andrew Kitzen
Syosset and Jericho Fire Department ex-Chief Robert Kaplan and his brother, Melville 1st Assistant Chief David Kaplan, at a recent car fire on the LIE. - Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
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6th Annual Lt Joseph DiBernardo Seminar
The Lt. Joseph P. DiBernardo Memorial Foundation held its 6th Annual Seminar on November 3-4, 2018. Thanks to all of the sponsors, donors, and vendors who made this event possible. It also couldn’t have been done without the Suffolk County Fire Academy, and the Three Village School District’s Robert Cushman Murphy Junior High School. Thank you to the dedicated instructors, speakers and staff, who gave up their time to make the weekend a success. The students not only proved that they are “into the job,” but that the brotherhood is alive and well. Thanks to each and every one of you for remembering Joey in such a meaningful way. Each year there are more and more attendees, so we must be doing something right. Joey is smiling down on everyone, knowing that five students came all the way from Honolulu, Hawaii, to be part of this special weekend and training. The best feeling in the world is when the students leave at the end of the two days, saying, “The seminar was awesome ... see you again next year!” So, until around this time next year ... Aloha! - Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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Up Close & Personal First Assistant Chief Gene Spiotta of the North Patchogue Fire Department at a recent MVA in Patchogue. - Fire News photo by Dennis Berger
Central Islip Chief of Department Patrick Murphy, Don Bracciodieta, Sr., Bob Sutton and 2nd Assistant Chief Mike Zaleski. - Fire News photo by Charlie Murphy
The Plainview Fire Department’s first all-female color guard in the Village of Farmingdale Columbus Day Parade. - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com
Seaford Fire Medic Captain Kristy Juliano with her son Stephen — 15 months — at the dedication of the department’s new aerial. - Fire News photo by Jack Healy
Hauppauge Fire Department 2nd Assistant Chief Brett Martinez operating at the scene of a fire on Veterans Memorial Highway in Hauppauge on October 11, 2018. - Fire News photo by Joseph C. Sperber
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MOTLEY CREWS OF THE MONTH
Members of the Baldwin Ladder Company 2 after a multi-alarm fire in a school in Hempstead on August 7, 2018. - Fire News photo by K2MPhotography.com
Seaford Fire Department members. - Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
The Jericho Fire Department Juniors and their advisors. - Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
The Suffolk Fire Academy “Gourmet” Cooking Crew. - Fire News photo by Dennis Whittam
Helping out at the Lt. Joseph DiBernardo Memorial Foundation seminar. - Fire News photo by Dennis Whittam
“Into the Job” at the Lt. Joey DiBernardo Seminar. - Fire News photo by Dennis Whittam
Massapequa firefighters and EMS personnel went to breakfast on November 16, 2018, before visiting all of the grammar schools in the Massapequa School District for Fire Prevention Week. - Fire News photo by Ed Tuffy
Members of the Manhasset-Lakeville Fire Department smile for Fire News. - Fire News photo by Ron Monteleone
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8 LODDs Remembered and Honored in Oceanside
On November 18, 2018, the Oceanside Fire Department, with the assistance of the Town of Hempstead, held a line of duty death dedication ceremony at Oceanside Fire headquarters. The event was held to remember the lives of eight members of the Oceanside Fire Department who over the years have made the ultimate sacrifice. Each member will now have a street renamed after them — in some instances the street where they lived, and in others the firehouse of which they were a part. All eight of the street signs were unveiled at the Sunday afternoon ceremony. Friends and family members
spoke about many of the departed and what the renaming meant to them. A version of each street sign was given to family members and friends to keep. The purpose of the ceremony and new street signs is to ensure each of these men are not forgotten. The eight men were: ex-Chief Thomas Staab; ex-Captain Vincent Herbert; exCaptain William Koerner; Honorary Captain Anthony Zito; Firefighter Stephen Wade; Chief Dominic A. Lagudi, Jr.; ExCaptain Joseph Jarvis, Sr.; and Captain Keith Lane. - Fire News photos by K2MPhotography.com
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Fire News, January 2019, Page 73
Obituary
ALERT EHLH 1’s Chief Raymond Plakstis, Jr. On Friday, November 20, 2018, Chief Raymond Plakstis, Jr., passed away due to 9/11 related illness at the age of 57. Ray joined the Alert Engine, Hook, Ladder and Hose Company 1 in April 1985. In 1991, he was elected to the position of Second Lieutenant and rose through the ranks, culminating in his election as Chief of Department in 2002. In 2014, he was elected to a second term as Chief, serving another three years. On September 11, 2001, as First Assistant Chief, Ray responded to the World Trade Center, and worked at Ground Zero for days after. He returned many times in the following months. In July 2016, he was diagnosed with cancer related to his exposure. With his wife and family at his side, he fought like a warrior, finally succumbing after 28 months of struggle. During his long service to the department, Ray was particularly dedicated to training, and was always on the cutting edge of innovation and new technology for the department. He helped countless young firefighters learn the skills needed to thrive in their profession. Truly, to know Ray was to be a better person and firefighter because of him. For 33 years, Ray’s devotion to duty and dedication to the Great Neck community was evident in every aspect of his life. He was elected to the Great Neck Village Board in 2015, and appointed Deputy Mayor later that same year. He served with distinction on the Village Board until health reasons forced his resignation. After 9/11, Ray worked with the late mayor Leonard Samansky of the Village of Saddle Rock to establish a memorial to the victims on the Saddle Rock Bridge. For many years, he maintained the memorial personally. Ray was the third-generation owner of Doray Enterprises after his father and grandfather. He was always present and willing to help. In the aftermath of Super Storm Sandy, Ray volunteered to utilize his station as a FEMA fuel dispensing station for municipalities and first responders. He did so at great personal expense. Ray was also instrumental each year in hanging Santa and his sleigh and decorating the Christmas tree in the Village Green Park. He and his family also purchased gifts for Santa to distribute to the neighborhood children for many years. The Great Neck community, and the Alert Fire Company have lost an irreplaceable presence in Chief Plakstis. His passing will be felt by all who had the honor of knowing him. In lieu of flowers, it is requested that donations be made to your local fire department or animal shelter in his memory. - Fire News photo provided
Page 74, Fire News, January 2019
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Obituary
Westhampton Beach’s Allan William Schunk Past-Assistant Chief of the Westhampton Beach Fire Department Allan William Schunk died on October 21, 2018. He was 48. Schunk served in both the Westhampton Beach Fire Department and Westhampton War Memorial Ambulance. He was a bartender for many years at Magic’s and the Artful Dodger in Westhampton Beach, but was most known for the work he did with his father building and repairing brush trucks. Family members said that he could be seen in his dad’s workshop shortly after he was out of diapers. He and his father, along with his older brother Darryl, designed and built brush trucks for many Long Island fire departments. Most were conversions of Korean War-era military vehicles. Allan became an excellent welder and developed a reputation as a genius at repairing small motors. One of the more famous trucks that the Schunks converted became known as the “Phoenix.” The truck was almost completely destroyed in the Pine Barrens wildfires of the 1990s. The Schunks had the truck moved to their shop where they worked feverishly to rebuild it, and had it ready to go for the parade honoring the wildfire heroes one month later. Chief Schunk was also involved in the restoration of the Westhampton Beach Fire Department’s 1928 Brockway. He was predeceased by his father, Robert Schunk. He is survived by his mother, Cynthia Schunk; and his brother, ex-Chief Darryl Schunk and wife Tonya Schunk. Memorial donations can be made to the Westhampton Beach Fire Department’s Antique Committee or the Suffolk County Volunteer Firefighter’s Burn Center Fund. - Fire News photo by Westhampton FD
Page 76, Fire News, January 2019
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