VOLUME 10, NO. 4
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes In NY State FEBRUARY 2017
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In this issue... Quick Work in Arlington
Shortly after midnight on New Year’s Eve, Arlington firefighters responded to a structure fire on Essex Road. See page 7
It’s Not Just in the Wall!
Scotia firefighters responded to a call for fire in a wall, only to arrive and find an entire house well involved. See story on page 10
Complete Loss
West Sand Lake and Best Luther responded to a shed fire that required a line laid down a hill, across a bridge and over a creek. See story on page 12
Pattersonville Car Fire
Pattersonville firefighters responded to a pickup truck fire on Interstate 90. The occupants of the truck escaped before their vehicle was completely engulfed. See story on page 15
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, EVELYN ALOISIO 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
1st of 3 in Schodack
On November 8, 2016, Schodack and East Greenbush firefighters responded to what would be the first of three garage fires in a three week period. See story on page 18
LODD Fire Police Captain Merle L. Nell
Vernon life member Merle L. Nell passes after working a mutual aid call.
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PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 4 Announcements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 5 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 20 Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 22 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 28 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 29
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.
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
Are You Familiar with Your Area? Whenever your company is assigned to cover a neighboring district for a stand by, do you give thought to what surprises are in store for you if you had a fire in that district? Whether you are a paid or volunteer fire department, unfamiliarity with building types, floor plans and recent renovations to a structure are concerns that you should have when you are assigned to unfamiliar areas. Are the hydrant connections in your neighboring district the same as yours? In some districts, the hydrant threads are National Standard, while in other areas they are NY Corp or Storz Connections. Where are the hydrants? How many feet apart are they? What type of wrench is used to open the hydrant? Many new officers might not be seasoned enough to look for the additional things you must think about or look for when you are doing a size up for a call. In my neighborhood, we have four basic models for homes. Some have basements, some do not. Some have built in swimming pools that in the winter, are covered with tarps being held down by water filed pillows. During your size up or 360 of the building, you might find yourself walking on an unse-
cured cover and falling into a swimming pool. How can you lessen the dangers that come with fighting fires in unfamiliar structures? In many paid departments AFID (Apparatus Field Inspection Duty) or B.I. (Building Inspection) are routine duties that firefighters are assigned to. It is this constant inspection of buildings that keeps firefighters safe. With the advent of onboard computers and tablets, floor plans and critical information about an occupancy are at your fingertips, providing someone has entered the information into the system. A good dispatcher will point out critical information (CIDS-Critical Information Dispatching System) to the first arriving units so they are aware of critical information such as handicapped occupants, hazmat conditions, floor plans, etc. A good officer will rely on a senior member for advice when responding to a call that is in an unfamiliar area. Shopping centers all look the same from the outside. However, a senior member of a company might have knowledge that certain stores have basements or there may be tunnels that link the
basements together. A situation like this could be advantageous to fighting a fire or it might be a path for fire to spread from one basement to another. Only prior knowledge of this situation will help you come up with the proper tactics to battle a blaze. No matter where you go, look at buildings, stores, and homes and make mental notes to share the information with the members of your department. Update the CIDS information on a regular basis. If your department does not do building inspection, as is the case with many volunteer departments, ask your community for help by submitting a pre-plan form for their home or business via a department website or by mailing back the form to the department. It is this critical information that keeps firefighters safe and allows them to quickly help the occupants should the need arise. Dennis
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ANNOUNCEMENTS THE EGGERTSVILLE HOSE COMPANY HAS ELECTED ITS OFFICERS FOR 2017 Brian K. Multerer has been re elected to a fourth term as Fire Chief of the Eggertsville Hose Company. Other officers elected to serve the volunteer company are: First Assistant Fire Chief Kiel Gentry; Second Assistant Fire Chief Brandon Peters; Fire Captains. Michael Flynn, Angela Hess and David Mastrella and fire Lieutenants Eugene Rodriguez, Brian Pietrzyk, Erick Cox And Don Fetes. Christina Mastrella was re elected Captain of EMS and Damien Fugate, Lieutenant of EMS. John Buttino has been re elected as the President of the company. Others elected are: Vice-President James Christopher; Recording Secretary Richard Cumpston Corresponding Secretary Patrick Galvin and Treasurer Robert Brand. Patrick Boyle was re-elected to the board of directors, and James McDonald was re-elected sergeant-at-arms.
DOES YOUR DEPARTMENT HAVE A PIO? Fire News is compiling a list of department Public Information Officers. If your department has a PIO, please send Fire News the PIO’s name, department, and contact information. E-mail us at Li@FireNews.com.
NOTICE FOR NEW YORK STATE HAZARDOUS WASTE LARGE QUANTITY GENERATORS AND HAZARDOUS WASTE TREATMENT, STORAGE AND/OR DISPOSAL FACILITIES A Hazardous Waste Report, for each calendar year, is required and must be submitted by large quantity generators and treatment, storage and/or disposal facilities in New York State. The report must be received by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) by March 1, 2017. Details, along with instructions and forms to be completed for the report, are available on the DEC’s website at www.dec.ny.gov/chemi-
cal/8770.html. DEC encourages all parties to submit the forms on-line at www.arminc.net. If completed on-line, the Declaration of Electronic Filing must be mailed and received by March 1, 2017. If on-line submission is not an option, the Report can be submitted in paper form. DEC is going paperless, as much as possible. To receive future information electronically regarding the NYSDEC Hazardous Waste Management Program go to public.govdelivery.com/accounts/NYSDEC/subscriber/new. Go to the “Hazardous Waste and Cleanup” to subscribe.
REST IN PEACE NYPD OFFICER STEVEN MCDONALD As Fire News is preparing to go to press with this paper, I ‘stopped the presses’ to offer our condolences to the McDonald Family. Over 30 years ago, I sat in the faculty room at Lynbrook North Middle School and listened to my colleagues speak of a wedding they had attended the day before. It was the wedding of Patti Norris and Steven McDonald. A short time later, tears filled the same room as we learned that Officer McDonald was shot in NYC’s Central Park. Surviving his wound, the lives of this wonderful family would be changed forever. Several years later, my schools held an assembly, so the students could listen to Officer McDonald speak. I remember hearing only one voice in the gymnasium. As Officer McDonald spoke to the students from his wheelchair you could hear a pin drop as the students were captivated by the presence of this great man, along with what he had to say. It was a day that I will always remember. Approximately 30 years later this great man’s tragedy and how he handled it impacted my life. I am proud to say I have met Officer Steven McDonald. As he sits with the 140 police officers who were lost in the line of duty in 2016 — and the four, so far, in 2017 — I know he will give comfort and guidance to those police officers who have left this world too soon. Rest in peace Officer Steven McDonald as you guide us from above. Fire News offers prayers of strength and comfort to Malverne’s Mayor Patti McDonald and son NYPD Sergeant Conor McDonald. - Dennis Whittam; Ed.
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Mahopac Smoker On January 1, 2017, the Mahopac Fire Department was dispatched to C & A Auto on Route 6 for a commercial fire alarm. First arriving Carmel Police units found the structure filling with heavy black smoke. Mahopac, with Chief Bill Bahr, sent a pumper/tanker, two engines and a ladder with Mahopac Falls responding with two pumper/tankers and a heavy rescue along with Chief Jeff Boyle and Assistant Chief Brian Sacher. No fire was found, but the smoke was caused by a malfunctioning heater which was not venting properly. With the assistance of an employee, doors were opened and the building was fully aired out. - Fire News photo by Jack Casey
Restaurant Fire Late on December 20, 2016, the Red Hook Fire Company received a call for a fire at Max’s Memphis BBQ on Route 9. Firefighters arrived to find smoke coming out of the rear of the building, and determined the source to be a fire in the wall of the restaurant’s boiler room near the water heater. According to Red Hook Fire Chief Rich Hilbrandt, firefighters were able to keep flames from reaching the ceiling. Fire crews were able to extinguish the fire in 10-15 minutes. The restaurant sustained minor smoke damage, but there was no structural damage to the kitchen or dining room. Also responding were Rhinebeck Fire, Red Hook Police and the Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office also at the scene. -Fire News photo by Jeff Levine
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Quick Work in Arlington
Fast Knockdown in Rombout
Shortly after midnight on December 31, 2016, Arlington firefighters responded to a structure fire on Essex Road. DC911 took numerous calls and upgraded the assignment to a second alarm. Units arrived to find the side of the attached garage involved but all occupants safely out. Firefighters were able to quickly knock down the fire. Damage to the structure was minimal. -Fire News photo by Bill Johnson
Rombout firefighters assisted by East Fishkill, New Hackensack, and the Village of Fishkill, operated at a structure fire on Herring Drive recently. Firefighters arrived to find an active fire in the basement and quickly knocked down the fire before it extended. -Fire News photo by Bill Johnson
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Cover Story
5-Alarmer in Kew Gardens
On December 30, 2016, Queens firefighters operated at a five-alarm fire on Vleigh Place in the Kew Garden section of Queens. Fourteen businesses were destroyed by the blaze. More than 200 firefighters tackled the fire, three of whom suffered smoke inhalation. -Fire News photos by Lloyd Mitchell and Wayne Carrington
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That’s a Lot of Line to Lay
Bronx 4-Alarm
Firefighters arriving at a house fire on Rosendale Road in Nikayuna Fire District 2 were forced to lay 1700 feet of supply line to access water to fight the fire. The fire started in the kitchen and was confined to that area and part of the first floor. -Fire News photo by Peter R. Barber
FDNY units in the Bronx battled a stubborn four-alarm blaze on Briggs Avenue on December 13, 2016. The fire appeared to have originated in the rear of a private dwelling and quickly spread to the dwelling next door. Wooden construction and numerous voids allowed the flames to spread until firefighters were finally able to bring it under control. Several firefighters suffered minor injuries. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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It’s Not Just in the Wall!
Recently, Scotia firefighters responded to a call for fire in a wall, only to arrive and find an entire house well involved. All occupants of the home escaped injury and the cause of the fire was under investigation. - Fire News photos by Peter R. Barber
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2nd Times a Charm
Complete Loss
East Fishkill assisted by the Village of Fishkill, Mobile Life and the East Fishkill Police operated at a smoke-in-the-building call at Hopewell Hot Bagels recently. Firefighters worked to find the source of the smoke, which was traced to a malfunctioning air handler unit in the attic. The building had been heavily damaged by fire back in 1997. Fortunately, with this incident, due to early detection and the action of firefighters, there was little to no impact to any of the businesses. -Fire News photo by Bill Johnson
A fire in a shed near a residence was reported, West Sand Lake and Best Luther responded to a shed fire in a residence recently. Unfortunately, by the time a line was laid down a hill, across a bridge and over a creek the structure was a lost cause. Tankers were called but the building and the farm equipment therein were lost. -Fire News photo by Martin E. Miller
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Vacant House Goes in Albany On December 17, 2016, Albany firefighters responded to a fire in a vacant house near Lincoln Park. Arriving companies found a well established fire in a “city X� (meaning unsafe to enter) marked structure. A second alarm was transmitted since there was another vacant building next door, wind and snow were picking up, and the temperature was 14 degrees. A neighbor reported three squatters, living in the house, but all were later found alive. - Fire News photo by Martin E. Miller
Five Mile Point Handles Trailer Fire On December 4, 2016, Broome County Communications dispatched Fire Mile Point Fire to Interstate 81 north in the area of Mile Marker 10 for a tractor trailer with fire under the trailer. Chief 59B responded and, once on scene, determined the fire was localized to the lift axle and passenger side tires. New York State Police arrived prior to Chief 59B and used a dry chemical extinguisher to help contain the fire. Squad 59 responded with a crew of four. It was determined the truck was hauling a load of solid waste and was not a hazard to the operation. Crews used the hose to finish extinguishing the fire and cool the axle and wheel area under the trailer. -Fire News photo by Nick Griswold
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Queens 2nd Alarm Fully Involved
All Hands in East New York
Queens firefighters battled a second alarm fire on 115th Avenue on December 17, 2016. The house was fully involved on arrival and a defensive operation was conducted. -Fire News photo by Groganphotos.com
On December 26, 2016, the Brooklyn Communications Office started receiving numerous calls for a fire in a private dwelling on Warwick Street. Upon arrival, fire was found on the first and second floors and quickly brought under control. -Fire News photo by Brian Grogan
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Pattersonville Car Fire On November 25, 2016, Pattersonville firefighters responded to a pickup truck fire on Interstate 90. The occupants of the escaped before their vehicle was completely engulfed in flames. Pattersonville firefighters put out the fire on arrival. -Fire News photos by Peter R. Barber
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Quick Work by W. Haverstraw
It’s That Time of Year
On November 20, 2016, the West Haverstraw Fire Department, along with automatic mutual aid from the Stony Point for a FAST, battled a fire in a basement apartment of a single-floor dwelling on Wall Street. The fire was quickly knocked down, and kept to the room of origin. The fire was believed to be accidental and was under investigation. - Fire News photo by Kenny Flynn
Scotia firefighters used their tower platform to put out a chimney fire on Glen Avenue in the village of Scotia. The homeowner was using the chimney for the first time as colder weather began to settle in. - Fire News photo by Peter R. Barber
FDIC Keynote Speaker Capt. Angela Hughes The Opening Ceremony, to be held Wednesday, April 26, 2017, will feature a keynote by Captain Angela Hughes of the Baltimore County (MD) Fire Department, president of the International Association of Women in Fire and Emergency Services. “It wasn’t until later in my career that I realized the importance of attending conferences. I have had the privilege of being an instructor at FDIC for the past three years,” Hughes says. Hughes relates that she took a class where the instructor began the session by stating, “This will probably be the worst class you have ever taken!” At that very moment, she was profoundly impacted to make a difference in the lives of those who would follow as students. “My goal has been to present curriculum in a manner that is comprehensive to the unique learning style for my students. By doing this, students who are auditory learners have the same success rates as those who learn by visual or kinesthetic techniques. I believe this makes learning both fun and individualized,” Hughes adds. She calls FDIC the “Super Bowl” of fire service conferences. “With an annual attendance of more than 30,000 people, it is fair to say that FDIC is one of the greatest tools for advancing the skill set of fire service personnel. The conference staff ensures that the experience is top notch for instructors, firefighters, first line supervisors, and chief officers,” she says. “The FDIC instructors are the ‘cream of the crop’ and provide each student with fantastic resources and tools to implement in the workplace.”
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Queens Garage Fire FDNY companies in the Cambria Heights section of Queens were on the scene of a fire in a multiple-vehicle garage on 217th Street on December 19, 2016. The radiant heat caused some extension to a nearby private dwelling. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
1st of 3 in Schodack On November 8, 2016, Schodack and East Greenbush firefighters responded to what would be the first of three garage fires in a three week period. The structure was far enough away from the home that it suffered no damage. The garage with two cars and various other implements were all lost. - Fire News photo by Martin E. Miller
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Firehouse Kitchen By Ray Cooney
Cooked And Uncorked Yes, those are real Super Bowl rings that I am wearing. I was invited to be a judge at Cooked and Uncorked, an unbelievable event held in Edison, New Jersey, at the Pine Manor - a topof-the-line catering hall. It is a fire department fundraiser for the burn center at St. Barnabas Medical Center and featured over 40 of New Jersey’s finest restaurants, caterers and desert shops, as well as various wineries and spirit companies. Twenty different firehouses competed in this ultimate cook-off to see who had the best gourmet and/or firehouse cooking. Guests of the event were invited to sample all the fire department dishes and have a chance to submit a people’s choice. As for the judging, there were two panels: one for the gourmet section and the other for the firehouse cooking. After viewing Firehouse Kitchen, they immediately knew that the gourmet panel was not for me Back to the rings. At my table, I started talking to a very fit gentleman about New Jersey. Anyone who knows me, knows that I am not a sports fanatic. I don’t know much about what player plays which sport for which team, etc. We struck up a conversation about the two things I knew about Jersey — Great Adventure and the old Haunted Mansion in Long Branch.
This man never heard about the Haunted Mansion. “You’re from Jersey and you don’t know about the haunted mansion of Long Branch?” I said. “I’m not from Jersey,” he responded. “I only moved here when I was drafted to the Giants.” That’s when I found out this man I was talking to was famous New York Giants center Bart Oates. Oates was an ironman on the offensive line and won two Super Bowls with the Giants. When he showed me his rings, I jokingly said that I would love to wear them and he graciously gave me the opportunity. The rest of the judges on this panel were a dynamite group of people and included John MacLean (NJ Devils), Mike Murphy (NY Giants) and Riley Cote (Philadelphia Flyers) to name a few. When the judging was done, the Paterson Fire Department was declared the victor in the firehouse cooking event. The winning team was led by Captain Jason Macones and Firefighters Ken Jeltema, Mike Oates, Sean Duffy and Mike Payne. When I asked Captain Macones for the recipe, he said, “Ancient Paterson secret.” They made pork belly tacos with pineapple relish on a grilled flour tortilla. Everything was delicious. In my opinion, all
the teams deserved a 10! One thing I must say about New Jersey firefighters is the pride they have in their departments is the same as what we have in New York. They treat each other, and firefighters from outside departments, like family. If you are not doing anything this February 27, 2017, look up “Cooked and Uncorked” held in Edison, New Jersey, and find out how you can attend this event. You will not regret it! The people, firefighters and food were amazing! One of the best times I have ever had! To find out more about Firehouse Kitchen or how to become a sponsor, visit firehousekitchenshow.com.
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Car Really Into Building On November 17, 2016, Menands and Schuyler Heights firefighters responded to the Price Chopper Plaza on Route 32 in Menands for a vehicle into a building. Upon arrival they found a vehicle completely inside the store, with the elderly female driver still in the vehicle. Fire and Colonie EMS removed the driver who was transported to the hospital for evaluation. The driver said she did not know what happened. -Fire News photo by Tom Heffernan
Fatality at Bethlehem MVA On November 19, 2016, Bethlehem Police received several calls reporting a car crash on Bender Lane at Stonewall Lane. Upon arrival, responders found a vehicle severed in half. Bethlehem Police, Elsmere Fire and Bethlehem EMS quickly extricated the driver who was declared dead upon arrival at Albany Medical Center Hospital. Speed was confirmed to be a contributing factor in the crash. -Fire News photo by Tom Heffernan
NEW KIMTEK WEBSITE TARGETS BRUSH TRUCK MARKET FIRELITE Transport Skid Units Transforms Truck and Vehicle Beds
KIMTEK Corporation, the world leader in off-road fire rescue skid units for UTV side-by-sides and pickup and flatbed trucks, has announced the launch of its new website dedicated to the needs of firefighting agencies using pick-ups and flatbed trucks for off-road wildland firefighting. The new website, www.brushtruckskids.com, can be accessed directly or linked via the company’s main website, www.kimtekresearch .com. The new site features the company’s FIRELITE Transport Series of high quality, affordable fire skid slipon transport units equipped with lifetime-warrantied copolymer water tanks, Honda driven Darley-Davey pumps, Hannay reels, and Scotty Foam Systems. Available in multiple configurations, they feature all-aluminum
diamond plate construction, stainless steel piping and are available with storage areas, patient rescue areas, or with fully enclosed brush fire equipment boxes and pre-connected cross lay trays. KIMTEK expertly designs and builds FIRELITE units in Vermont to the specifications of firefighting agencies, industrial complexes, sports venues, agricultural ranches, and other organizations requiring affordable, all inclusive skid slip-on units that rapidly transform their pick-up and flatbed trucks into effective brush trucks.
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Late for a Spin Class? On December 23, 2016, Bethlehem Police were trying to figure out what caused an elderly woman to veer off Glenmont Road, down and embankment into the Glenmont Plaza crashing into several utility trailers, a pickup truck, and continuing to crash into several more vehicles before stopping in front of Planet Fitness. The Selkirk Fire Department responded to the scene to secure the area. The driver was checked out by Albany County Paramedics and was transported to the hospital by the BethlehemDelmar Ambulance Service. -Fire News photo by Tom Heffernan
Lucky in Winona Lake On December 30, 2016, the Winona Lake engine company was called out for an MVA on Route 84 eastbound on the exit 7a ramp. A car crashed into a guard rail then was hit by atractor-trailer. No one was injured. -Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick
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4 Injured in Car-Tree MVA
OnStar Comes in Handy
On December 11, 2016, Washingtonville Fire and Blooming Grove EMTs responded to a car into a tree MVA on Route 94 and Old Dominion Road. Four people were injured and treated by a Blooming Grove and Washingtonville EMTs. One adut was in serious condition, another and two children were also transported by New Windsor and Goshen ambulances. -Fire News photo by Gary Hearn
Recently, Churchville Fire Department and Ambulance were dispatched for a single-car MVA in the area of Baker Street in the village. A pickup truck was found in trees down a 15-foot embankment. If not for OnStar being automatically activated and GPS used, the victim would likely not have been found until the next day. The truck left the roadway, glanced off a two-foot tree, went airborne for 50 feet until it struck another two-foot tree head on. The fire department used chainsaws and hydraulic tools to effect the rescue in about 30 minutes. The patient was rushed to Strong Memorial Hospital with a paramedic from Monroe Ambulance. The victim underwent nine hours of surgery, having sustained multiple broken bones in each extremity, a closed head injury, and multiple organ issues including bladder, spleen and gall bladder. -Fire News photo by John Spaulding
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Mahopac Candy Cane Run
A time honored tradition was dispatched at the Mahopac Falls Fire Tots program. Before heading out, the crews stopped long enough Headquarters, when fire and EMS crews hit the streets of the dis- for the 46th annual Candy Cane Run picture. Thank you to all who trict escorting Santa to get last minute requests from the girls and helped. -Fire News photo by Jack Casey, Director, OPI boys, handing out candy canes and collecting gifts for the Toys for
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Winona Lake Senior Dinner
On December 10, 2016, the Winona Lake Fire Department held there senior citizen’s dinner. This year, a special guest attended, Edie Deleahen, one of the first cooks from over 40 years ago, who received a pointsetta. Special thanks to all the cooks, people and volunteers who made this event a success. -Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick
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Santa’s Here!
On December 18, 2016 the Winona Lake Ladies Auxiliary held there annual Christmas party for the firemen’s families. Santa arrived by ladder truck and gave out presents to all the boys and girls. -Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick
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Motley Crew Members of FDNY Ladder 32 on October 14, 2016. - Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
Up-Close Arlington Career Firefighter/Paramedic John Cox operated at a recent structure fire along with his wife Annie. Annie has been an active EMT with Arlington Station 5 Croft Corners for 15 years and this was probably the last time they will operate together. The district has decided to privatize EMS transport in the district claiming it will be a financial savings to the districts taxpayers. -Fire News photo by Bill Johnson
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Preserving the Past: The Oldest Working Fireboat
The EM Cotter Conservancy — dedicated to raising awareness of the historical significance of the fireboat Edward M. Cotter, the oldest functioning fireboat still in service — made up of the Fire Commissioners office, Fire Bell Club, Buffalo Fire Historical Society and the Buffalo Fire Union Local 282 held a “Sweet 16-plus100 Birthday Party” for the Cotter with open tours. The Cotter was
tied up just west of the Naval and Serviceman’s Park on the Buffalo River where the public could board and tour the boat. Members of the Conservancy acted as guides explaining the history and function of the boat. Plans are to raise the funds to make some much needed repairs to the hull, propellers, some engine overhauls and cosmetic things which need to be done. - Fire News photos by Douglas Hanes
BUSINESSDirectory
IT PAYS TO ADVERTISE IN THE FIRE NEWS BUSINESS DIRECTORY CALL 631-776-0500 EXT. 3
Firefighter Cancer Support Network Together we can make a difference
Dennis Whittam
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Antonio J. Cruz
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Director of New York State Cancer Survivor & Mentor
www.nyfirephotos.com Phone: 631-473-3821 Email: dwhittam@optonline.net
Visit your photos and purchase them online. www.FirefighterCancerSupport.org
Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund Brian J. Farrell Chairman 516-840-8839 cell 516-783-1996 office terryfund@terryfund.org www.TerryFund.org
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Gary Margerum North East Regional Sales Manager Cell 970-420-1964 Phone 1-800-525-5224 Fax 970-667-4296 Email garym@supervac.com Super Vacum Manufacturing Co., Inc. P.O. Box 87, Loveland, CO 80539
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Fire News, February 2017, Page 29
Firemen’s Association of the State of New York Honors State Senator Joseph A. Griffo ‘Golden Trumpet’ Awarded to Lawmaker Who Demonstrates Exceptional Support for Volunteer Fire Service
State Senator Joseph A. Griffo is the recipient of the 2016 Golden Trumpet Award, which is presented by the Firemen’s Association of the State of New York (FASNY). The honor was bestowed on November 6. Historically, this honor has been accorded to New York State legislators, government officials, and others who have demonstrated exceptional support for and assistance to the volunteer fire service. State Senator Griffo represents the 47th District, which encompasses a large portion of central and northern New York, and includes the city of Utica. FASNY is saluting the State Senator for his tireless work on behalf of his constituents, but particularly for his efforts on behalf of the volunteer fire service. The State Senator’s efforts have proven particularly important in the fight for presumptive cancer coverage for volunteer firefighters. As a co-sponsor of bill S. 3891, State Senator Griffo was instrumental in passing this legislation through the upper house during consecutive sessions in Albany. He continues to work closely with FASNY and other fire service organizations to advance this critical legislation, which would provide the protection and security that New York’s nearly 110,000 volunteer firefighters both need and deserve.
Unlike New York’s career firefighters, the state's volunteers do not currently receive medical coverage in the event of most cancer diagnoses, although fire and smoke, and the cancers they cause, do not discriminate among victims. The proposed legislation would extend the already-existing Volunteer Firefighters’ Benefit Law (VFBL) to cover all instances of melanoma, as well as the urinary, prostate, neurological, breast, and reproductive systems. State Senator Griffo: “Volunteer firefighters deserve our utmost respect, but just as importantly, they deserve our official support. It is the obligation of all New Yorkers to ensure that those who willingly place themselves into harm’s way, so that others may live, receive the very best care available when it is needed. It is a true honor to receive this year’s Golden Trumpet from our state’s bravest, and I look forward to continuing to work with volunteer firefighters on presumptive cancer coverage, as well as other critical public safety issues.” FASNY President Ken Pienkowski: “State Senator Joseph Griffo is the latest in a long line of elected officials to be honored with the Golden Trumpet, and he is a highly deserving recipient. He has worked tirelessly on behalf of New York’s volunteer firefighters to advance
the issue of presumptive cancer coverage. We are grateful for his tremendous leadership and dedication, and look forward to working together even more in the future.” About the FASNY Golden Trumpet Award: The FASNY Golden Trumpet Award has been presented 19 times since 1991. Past winners include U. S. Senator Alphonse D’Amato; U.S. Representative Sherwood Boehlert; NYS Assemblyman Michael Bragman; internationally recognized writer Kurt Vonnegut, NYS Senator John Bonacic, NYS Senator James Seward; NYS Senator Dale Volker, NYS Assembly Member RoAnn Destito, NYS Assembly Member Richard Smith, NYS Assembly Member Aileen Gunther, and NYS Assembly Member Bill Magee. It is presented at FASNY’s Fall Legislative Conference where volunteer firefighters from around the State gather to discuss their legislative priorities for the upcoming Session, as well as issues related to providing timely, effective services to communities throughout the State. The actual award is a bronze plaque depicting the trumpet used by Fire Chiefs in bygone days to shout orders during a fire before the invention of electronic emergency communication methods.
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LODD
Fire Police Captain
Merle L. Nell
It is with deep regret that the Vernon Fire Department announces that Fire Police Captain Merle L. Nell has answered his last alarm. On November 29, 2016, after becoming ill while working on a mutual aid fire call with his fire
department, Fire Police Captain Nell passed away in the hospital from a nature and cause of fatal injury still to be reported. Nell, 78, served the department for 51 years and was a life member. He was currently the department's fire police captain.
Obituary
AFD Battalion Chief Fondly Remembered
By John Purcell Recorder News Amsterdam Fire Department Chief Michael Whitty said the late Michael DePasquale was, “a firefighter through and through.” DePasquale, 53, a lifelong Amsterdam resident, died unexpectedly on October 20, 2016, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Amsterdam reportedly surrounded by his family and fellow firefighters. DePasquale had served on the Amsterdam Fire Department for more than 31 years and rose through the ranks to become Battalion Chief. DePasquale is survived by his wife, Christine, and two daughters, Kara and Megan, along with his two brothers, Richard and James. Whitty described DePasquale as a dedicated firefighter who had earned the, “respect of his men.” He said DePasquale, “bought a lot of experience to the table,” along with a level headed approach to situations. “For me, as one of my command staff, I respected his opinion,” Whitty said. “Whatever Mike was tasked with I knew I could count on it getting done, and getting it done properly and safely. He was that kind of officer and he’s going to be greatly missed.” DePasquale joined the city fire department in April 1985 and was promoted to driver in February 1991. He was promoted to Lieutenant in May 2002 before being promoted to Battalion Chief on June 28, 2010. He was selected as Amsterdam Fireman of the Year in 1991. Whitty said DePasquale was responsible for the fire department’s emergency medical service operations, which is the biggest component of the fire service. “Mike ran that and he did a good job doing it,” he said. He served as president of the Amsterdam Professional Firefighters Union from 1992 to 2002. He also served as a driver for the Montgomery County Veterans Service Agency. Amsterdam Mayor Michael Villa said hearing of DePasquale’s unex-
pected death was shocking. Villa said DePasquale’s passing was a tragic situation for the fire department as well as his family. “It’s a very sad day for Amsterdam,” Villa said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.” Villa said when he was hired in 1985 as a police officer, DePasquale was a part-time police officer. Villa said they both had taken the police and fire department exam and passed each test. While they each went to different departments, Villa said their paths would regularly cross while on the job. “I remember the brief time we worked together before he left the police department to go to the fire department,” Villa said. “Our careers co-existed — I’d see him at calls.” Villa said DePasquale was a great, fun loving person, who was a dedicated firefighter who loved the city of Amsterdam. Whitty said the death of DePasquale was shocking for the entire fire department, but he was confident firefighters would help each other cope and continue to suit up when the alarm sounds. “You hear people say the fire service is a brotherhood and at times like this it truly is,” Whitty said. “Mike would be the first one to say we still got a job to do. When the bell rings, we’re going to get on the trucks and we’re going to go out the door — that’s what we do.” Funeral services were held on October 25. Memorial contributions may be made to the Homeward Bound Dog Rescue of NY, PO Box 5782, Albany, NY 12205; or to the Amsterdam Fire Department Scholarship Fund, Public Safety Building, 1 Guy Park Ave., Ext. Amsterdam, NY 12010.
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Fire News, February 2017, Page 31