Serving NEW YORK S TATE Serving Fire, Rescue
VOLUME 12, NO. 9
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Fire,Serving Rescue & EMS Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes & EMS Heroes Heroes Since 1973 Since 1996 1973 JULY 2019
See story on page 6. - Fire News photo by Peter Barber
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Fire News, July 2019, Page 3
In this issue... Good Work at East Fishkill House Fire With assistance, East Fishkill operated at a residential structure fire on Beekman Road.
See story on page 5
Selkirk CSX Brush Fire Selkirk Fire was called to a small grass fire on CSX property. See story on page 13
Armonk Commercial 2-Alarmer Armonk firefighters were dispatched to Main Street for a report of smoke in the building.
See story on page 16
3-Alarm Condo Fire in Central Nyack Central Nyack firefighters were dispatched to Sierra Vista Lane for a structure fire.
See story on page 24
Kids Save Grandmother in Nyack The Nyack Fire Department made quick work of a house fire.
See story on page 27
A Service for New York State Firefighters and EMS Heroes 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713 FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher TIM EDWARDS, Executive Editor DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor GARY P. JOYCE, Asst. Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production/Sales LYNN SEDLER, Art Director CLIFF CHIESA, Production Manager Advertising Sales: BARBARA CONNOLLY Graphic Artist: GREGORY JONES CONTRIBUTORS: Andrew Aguilar, Chris Aldous, Jeff Ambroz, Peter Barber, Kevin Barry, John Bashaw, Bill Bennett, Tom Bierds, Jeff Couch, Chris Creighton, David Denniston, Rick Douglas, Brian Duddy, Stan Dybus, John Falcone, Ken Flynn, Joe Fortunato, Eli Gill, Mark Gillen, Carol Greene, Tom Heffernan Sr., Greg Herman, Matt Hodge, Steve Hodgekiss, Robert Holley, Daniel Imfield, Andy Jarchin, Bill Johnson, Mark Johnson, Chris Kalisak, Charlie Keller, Jon Kemp, Gordon Kotars, David R. LaRocco, Stephen Lenz, Joshua Long, Mike Messar, Ralph Miele, Albert Mignone, John Miller, Martin E. Miller, Lloyd Mitchell, Brian Natoli, Carleton Raab, Robert Reynolds, Lauren Rivera, Stephen Schaefer, Deborah Schweikert, Tom Shand, John Shaw, Sharon Siegel, Robert Simpson, Joe Sperber, Bryan Sypniewski, Karen Todd, Kyle Townsend, Joe Turner, Michael VanDerLieth, Lori Washburn, D.B. Weimer, Stephen White.
Columnists: Bruce Johnson, John Salka COPYRIGHT 2019, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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Six Editions Serving Long Island, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Pennsylvania Proud Member Of:
Mahopac Falls Handles MVA Rollover Mahopac Falls Fire, EMS, Heavy Rescue and Fire Police were dispatched to a serious MVA. See story on page 34
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 4 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 20 Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 34 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 41 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 41
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
The Perfect Time to Hone Skills I would like to take a moment to thank all of our responders who have been honored for performing above and beyond the call of duty. Fire News was proud to have attended many department installation and award dinners that honored responders for high points, training awards, CPR saves, rescues and years of service. As I write my editorial, the Fire Department of the City of New York is preparing to honor their members who have performed above and beyond the call of duty by saving lives. We will talk more about that in our next edition. Are you one of your department’s newer members? Have you given thought to your dedication to your Oath of Service? Would you be able to put your life on the line to protect the lives of others? In your mind you are probably saying “Yes!” But what can you do to make sure you are ready to perform flawlessly at your next serious call? If you are given a rope and asked to tie it off, could you do it without hesitation? Or would you stare at the rope and guess at what to do? Officers set up great company drills throughout the year. Once a month, an evolu-
tion and skills are reviewed. Can you really learn a skill by doing it once a month? I say, No! Watch your next yearly bailout recertification drill. Are your members able to tie off, make it to the window, and then bailout without thought? When a room is ready to flash, you have seconds to perform a maneuver flawlessly. When you are searching a smokefilled room without a search rope and your vibra alert goes off do you know what to do? What happens if you are searching a room that you closed the door on and cannot find the door to leave the room? Maybe inside the room the door was totally smooth and blended into the wall. Do you have to give a Mayday signal, or could you calmly radio to someone out in the hall and ask them to open the door on the first room to the right of the staircase? Every situation requires thought about emergency procedures. Your thought process is developed by constantly drilling and talking with members to gain ideas on what to do. Critiquing after every call is a must! Constant practice is necessary to gain experience on skills that keep you safe. It is the responder’s obligation to familiar-
ize themselves with the skills taught to them. The next time you walk into the firehouse to kill time, eat your lunch or check the bulletin board, practice or do one thing that could save your life. Try this. Keep a six-foot rope in your living room. When a commercial comes on, nonchalantly pick up the rope and make as many knots as you can until your show resumes. If you do this with dedication, your knot skills will improve. Oh, one more thing, know what the knot is used for and where you will use that knot. Enjoy summer honing your skills as a first responder. - Dennis
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Good Work at East Fishkill House Fire
East Fishkill, assisted by La Grange, Beekman, Village of Fishkill, Hughsonville and New Hackensack, operated at a residential structure fire on Beekman Road on March 30, 2019. The first-in apparatus arrived to fire coming from the second-floor windows on the AB side and went to work, quickly knocking down the majority of the fire in the balloon construction farmhouse. Crews then worked to
chase the remaining fire through the voids in the ceiling, roof and walls, as occasional wind gusts fanned the flames. Fortunately, the occupants were safely accounted for and swift action by firefighters significantly limited damage to the residence. Rombout and Pawling provided station coverage. - Fire News photos by Bill Johnson
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Cover Story
Troy 3-alarmer Guts 2 Businesses
Troy firefighters called for several mutual aid companies after flames broke out and quickly consumed the Alpha Bowling Lanes on 5th Avenue on May 8, 2019, then spread to neighboring Troy Hardware and Locksmith Services. Area schools were let out early
and neighborhoods in close proximity were evacuated. Brick walls weakened by the fire crumbled to the ground sending firefighters with handlines scrambling for cover. The cause was under investigation. - Fire News photos by Peter Barber and Martin E. Miller
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Dogs Saved in Newark Fire
On April 3, 2019, the Newark Fire Department was toned out for possible structure fire on Driving Park Avenue in the village. Command requested an all hands, with Lyons requested as the FAST/RIT. Firefighters made a quick interior attack and rescued at least three dogs — one a Saint Bernard which required oxygen. The fire was knocked down within 15 minutes. - Fire News photo by John Greco
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Amherst House Goes
The East Amherst Fire Department was called to Muegel Road for a structure fire. On arrival, units reported an attached garage fully involved and extending into the residence. Fire eventually consumed the entire home. - Fire News photo by Donald Kilianski
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Rotterdam Garage Fire
Rotterdam Fire D istrict 2 volunteers were called to Vischer Avenue on April 4, 2019, for a garage fire. S outh S chenectady firefighters were clearing a call in the vicinity and were first to arrive, finding a garage totally involved. The fire spread to a neighboring garage bringing more resources to the scene. No one was injured in the fire and the cause was under investigation. - Fire News photos by Peter Barber and Mark Perfetti
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County-Wide Response in Rensselear
n OMay 30, 2019, Rensselaer County dispatch alerted several fire companies in the northern part of the county of the possible need of interior firefighters at Northern Bennington College. Fire was found burn-
ing through the walls and up into the attic of a very large old wooden building. Many mutual aid companies responded. The cause was thought to be old wiring. - Fire News photo by Martin Miller
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Negative Trapped at Avenue R Fire
A fire broke out in a two-story mixed occupancy building on Avenue R. The fire was on the first floor. Firefighters used two lines to knock down the bulk of fire. Searches of the building proved negative for trapped residents. - Fire News photo by Lloyd Mitchell
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O May 26, 2019, the Boght, Latham, Colonie, Cohoes, S n haker Road, Maplewood and Verdoy fire departments responded to a structure fire on Murray Avenue, which began in a chicken coop outside of a home that housed a multitude of people. The fire quick-
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ly spread to the first and second floors. Ventilation was cut in the roof on the second floor. O ne firefighter was treated by Colonie EMSand released. - Fire News photos by Lori Washburn
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Selkirk CSX Brush Fire At around 1700 on May 20, 2019, Selkirk Fire was called to a small grass fire on CSX property. Chiefs arrived and Elsmere was toned out as well. The now escalating brush fire was located right next to the tracks and due to windy conditions, was spreading. A brush truck and Gator were called for extra help. It took crews approximately 10-15 munities to completely extinguish the fire. - Fire News photos by Simon Lindmark
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All-Day Commercial Blaze in Roosevelt
The Roosevelt Fire Department, assisted by numerous departments throughout Dutchess County, operated at a structure fire at Gleason Excavators on March 8, 2019. The fire, which occurred in a 200- x 150-foot multi-use warehouse, was originally dispatched as an automatic fire alarm. Units arrived to heavy smoke in the structure and fire conditions rapidly deteriorated as crews began their fight. Firefighters were faced with single-digit temperatures, numerous hazards in and around the structure, as well as a shortage of water. Crews worked most of the day to extinguish the fire but not before it destroyed the building and most of its contents. - Fire News photos by Bill Johnson
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Armonk Commercial 2-Alarmer
On March 30, 2019, Armonk firefighters were dispatched to Main Street for a report of smoke in the building. Police were the first to arrive and advised of heavy smoke throughout the single-story commercial building. Firefighters arrived and found heavy fire conditions between the ceiling and roof of the building and with quick work were able to keep the fire to the cockloft of the original building. Over 10 departments worked the second-alarm fire which took around two hours to put under control as companies continued to chase hot spots throughout the cockloft and check for extension in the adjoining buildings. - Fire News photos by PuckStopperPhotography.com
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Heavy Smoke in Cheektowaga
Multiple Calls in Crown Heights
On the evening of April 22, 2019, Pine Hill firefighters were alerted for a structure fire on Long Street. Multiple chiefs responded advising of reported heavy smoke en route. Rescue 9-2 reported multi garages and a 2-1/2 story wood frame fully involved. City of Buffalo Fire Department along with Bellevue, Cleveland Hill, UCrest, Hy-View, Sloan and Forks, Williamsville (FAST), Snyder (FAST), and Bowmansville (FAST) responded as mutual aid. Doyle and South Line provided coverage. - Fire News photo by Donald Kilianski
FDNY Engine Company 234, Ladder 123, 38 Battalion and Rescue Company 2 responded to multiple phone calls for a fire on the top floor of an apartment house on St. Marks Place in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, on Mother’s Day. Units arrived to heavy fire in an apartment. Five residents suffered minor injuries. - Fire News photo by Lloyd Mitchell
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Firehouse Kitchen With Host Ray Cooney
The Pride of Chicken Salad According to the pride of Sheffield Avenue’s, Joe Walsh, from Engine 290 in East New York, Brooklyn, Engine 290 is the best engine in the FDNY. They put out “millions” of fires a year and respond within seconds of the alarms. Yes, this is what I hear from the great Joe Walsh who has appeared on Firehouse Kitchen. Joe loves to put me — and every other borough besides Brooklyn — down. This is Joe’s second time on the show, yet, as you should know by now, I have a way of dishing it right back. I can bust chops, about Brooklyn, with the best of them. Joe’s meal was “Brooklyn Chicken Salad.” My comment was, “Wow, I guess that’s how you Brooklyn guys eat chicken. Us Queens firefighters like to bake it and eat it off the bone like real men.” This started a lot of unmentionable banter between Joe and I and some great lines that Joe said, and I quote, “Is Staten Island a paid fire department?” “If you look over the horizon and see smoke, that’s Brooklyn”, and so on. One funny mentionable comment from this
episode was during the promotion of my new wine. It supports fire fighter charities. It’s called Smoke Eater Wine — First Due Red. Its symbol is a fire helmet. My partner on the show, Gerard, from Ladder 143, turned me on to this wine because it’s going to support “Fired Up for a Cure,” an FDNY 9/11 charity. The funny mentionable was when Joe made a comment towards Kirkland (Costco) chicken salad and Gerard was in the background waving his hands furiously at the thought that Joe might insult a possible carrier of the wine. From that point on, Joe made an exaggerated point of mentioning every Kirkland (Costco) product he was using in his chicken salad. Of course, everything that Engine 290 does is unbelievable, including Joe’s chicken salad. On a serious note. Engine 290 is a highly respected company, no matter what any Queen’s guy may say. The camaraderie in that firehouse is what the FDNY is all about. On a side note, Firehouse Kitchen can now be found on bingenetwork.com (seasons 1-5).
BROOKLYN CHICKEN SALAD 1 baked chicken 3 stalks of chopped celery 1/2 cup mayonnaise (add more to your liking) Salt and pepper to taste Teaspoon of granulated garlic Tablespoon of spicy brown mustard Shred chicken in bowl, add all other ingredients. Mix and chill in refrigerator for an hour. Enjoy over a plate of lettuce or on a roll with lettuce and tomato.
To find out more about Smoke Eater wine and where you can purchase it, go to smokeeaterwine.com. To find out more about Firehouse Kitchen or how to become a sponsor, visit firehousekitchenshow.com or email me at firehousekitchentv@gmail.com.
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YOU SPOKE ... WE LISTENED CHANGES COMING FOR FIREHOUSE WORLD 2020 Here at Firehouse World we continually strive to bring together industry professionals through best in class educational content, and connect buyers and sellers on our exhibit floor. We are constantly looking for ways to improve our offerings and provide maximum ROI for our exhibitors and sponsors. Planning for Firehouse World 2020 has started, and we are excited to share with you just some of the changes and developments you can expect to see next year. Location: In 2020, Firehouse World will move to Las Vegas, Nevada. Vegas is a popular destination which will attract a great audience. We are already in discussions with the fire departments in the region, who are enthusiastic to partner with us and create a great event for the fire service industry. Event Dates: Firehouse World will be held February 24-27, 2020. This change will help decrease conflicts for attendees, exhibitors and speakers who may have other events on their schedule. Exhibit Hall Dates: We will be moving back to a two-day exhibit schedule in 2020, with exhibits on February 25 and 26. The feedback we received indicated that you felt a two-day exhibit schedule works best. Conferences: We will be making changes to our traditional conference program, including shorter educational sessions, and adding demonstrations to draw more attendees to the exhibit floor. Exhibitors will have more opportunities to offer product demonstrations on the show floor, allowing for more hands-on-training and indirect product marketing through education.
Marketing Strategies: In 2020, we will be making changes to our marketing strategies to boost attendance and create more engagement on the show floor, including offering additional activities such as more and larger product demos, partnership programs and improved exhibitor tool kits to market the event. Firehouse World 2020 also brings with it changes to the management team. Sue Ralston, Vice President of Operations, joined the team this year. She is looking forward to planning the event from the beginning and brings a wealth of experience to the operations-side of the business, which will be reflected in improved exhibitor communications, customer service and on-site experience. As a result of Endeavor Business Media’s acquisition of PennWell Corporation, the Firehouse Marketing Team has now added additional members with a proven record of growing attendance at large fire service events. We are excited about the changes for Firehouse World 2020 and hope you will be as well. Please visit us online at www.FirehouseWorld.com for event updates. If you have any feedback from Firehouse World 2019 or comments of what you’d like to see in 2020, please contact the Firehouse World Team.
DANA SHAFFER JOINS SUPER VAC AND COMMAND LIGHT AS THE BRANDS’ NEW NORTHEAST SALES MANAGER
Dana Shaffer joins Super Vac and Command Light as the brands’ new Northeast Sales Manager. He brings more than 17 years of experience in the fire equipment industry, representing brands like MSA, Lion Fire Gear, Res-Q-Jack and Hurst Jaws of Life as part of Susquehanna Fire Equipment Co. Shaffer now represents Super Vac’s expansive lineup of ventilation equipment, as well as Command Light’s array of scene lighting products. The Super Vacuum Manufacturing brands on-boarded Shaffer earlier in the year. With the arrival of his demo truck this April, Shaffer has hit the ground running. Shaffer also brings 20 years of fire service in the Bloomsburg, Pa., area, where he currently resides. Shaffer is experience in auto extrication, engine operations, ladder response and heavy rescue, as well as specialize rescues, like RIT team, hazard material and low- and medium-angle rope operations. During his time volunteering with the Epsy Fire Department, he held various positions and currently is the Rescue Chief. Shaffer has a background in heavy equipment operation and repair. “Not only does Dana bring a wealth of knowledge to our team, but he’s well respected among industry peers and brings an enthusiasm that truly is contagious,” says Roger Weinmeister, President of Super Vac and Command Light. Shaffer says it’s an exciting time to join these two brands. “With Super Vac’s new DeWalt- and Milwaukee-battery powered fans, the demo requests are rolling in, and I love demos. I really enjoy rolling up my sleeves to work and train with customers. And then there’s Command Light’s tower giveaway, which kicked off at FDIC. The
giveaway encourages departments to see our products in action for a chance to win a Shadow Series tower. There’s nothing like a live demo that lets you compare truck-mounted lights to a Command Light tower. In the end, I love working with new departments and companies every day, and just these two initiatives alone have me busy doing just that.” Shaffer can be reached via email at danas@supervac.com or danas@commandlight.com, or via cell phone at 970-420-1964. To meet Super Vac and Command Lights full sales team, visit supervac.com/sales-support or commandlight.com/sales-support. For more information on Super Vac’s new battery fan, visit supervac.com/battery-powered-ppv, and for details on the light tower giveaway, check out commandlight.com/light-tower-giveaway. About Super Vac – Super Vac is the world’s leading manufacturer in emergency ventilation products. A one-stop shop for all things ventilation, Super Vac equips crews with a versatile array of only the toughest solutions, including the industry’s largest lineup of PPV fans, as well as smoke ejectors. Super Vac also manufactures rescue saws, rehab misters and other necessities, including the patented Smoke BlockAid for smoke mitigation. About Command Light – Command Light, of Fort Collins, CO, specializes in scene lighting for the emergency industry and features the best light towers, compact scene lighting, traffic flow boards and other safety lighting products.
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Restaurant Basement Fire in Queens
A fire broke out in the basement of a Crown Fried Chicken on Seneca Avenue in Ridgewood, Queens, on Mother’s Day. The fire was brought under control just after 1730. There were no injuries. - Fire News photo by Lloyd Mitchell
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3-Alarm Condo Fire in Central Nyack
On April 14, 2019, Central Nyack firefighters were dispatched to Sierra Vista Lane for a structure fire. Firefighters arrived to heavy smoke and fire coming from the roof of building 12 of the condominium complex. Crews made a strong push at an interior attack but the fire had a head start and soon forced them from the building. A tower ladder was set up and put into operation and knocked down the bulk of the fire. The fire destroyed 10 units before being placed under control. Firefighters from Valley Cottage, Nyack, Blauvelt, Congers, West Nyack, and Tappen responded to fight the blaze which reached three alarms. - Fire News photos by PuckStopperPhotography.com
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Broadalbin-Kennyetto Handles Structure Fire
On April 4, 2019, the Broadalbin-Kennyetto Volunteer Fire Company responded to a structure fire on State Highway 29. Upon arrival, smoke was seen coming from the roof and eaves of the home. - Fire News photos by Mark Perfetti
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Kids Save Grandmother in Nyack The Nyack Fire Department made quick work of a house fire that occurred on the afternoon of April 7, 2019. Arriving companies found heavy fire showing out the front of the home. The first-in engine used its deck gun to quickly knock down the exterior fire as additional crews began stretching lines to the interior. The home, which had just undergone a major renovation, was heavily damaged. Two children in the home, aged eight and three, noticed smoke and quickly alerted their grandmother who was on the second floor of the home. All were then able to escape the home unharmed. - Fire News photos by Kenny Flynn
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Flushing All-Hands FDNY companies in the Flushing section of Queens operated at an all-hands assignment for a fire on the second floor of a two-story home on 155th Street near 59th Avenue on the afternoon of May 2, 2019. There were no injuries reported. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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All Hands Operate in Queens
FDNY companies in the Queens Village section of Queens battled an all-hands blaze in a private dwelling on 111th Avenue on the morning of May 22, 2019. The blaze may have started in a vehicle in the driveway between two houses and quickly spread to the dwelling. No injuries were reported for the incident. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Lindenwood Street Fire
A fire broke out on Lindenwood Street on May 20, 2019. Engine 231 arrived to a two-story private dwelling. Searches proved negative and the fire was placed under control. - Fire News photo by Lloyd Mitchell
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2-Alarm Fire Destroys Kirkwood House
At 1330 on May 21, 2019, Broome County Communications dispatched Kirkwood (38), Five Mile Point (59), and Conklin (46) Fire Departments to Zimmer Road for a house fire with possible occupants still inside. Chief 38 advised he could see black smoke from Route 11 and requested a second alarm. Once on scene, Chief 38 was able to determine all occupants had been able to escape. PumperTanker 38, Engine 59-1, and Tower 59 with total crews of 12, of which nine personnel were interior green tags, responded. First arriving crews were faced with a heavy volume of fire and strong winds.
Several lines were stretched and a water supply was established but, due to the heavy volume of fire and lightweight construction, the roof was collapsing and all attack had to be exterior. EMS was requested to evaluate the residents, who all were uninjured. Also responding were Pumper-Tanker 46 and Susquehanna County (PA) Great Bend Hose Co. Pumper Tanker. On standby was Hallstead (PA), Town of Binghamton (58) and West Colesville (51), Broome Ambulance, Superior Ambulance, New York State Police, NYSEG, and Broome County Fire Coordinators. - Fire News photos by Nicholas Griswold
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7 Buildings Razed after Bradford Street Blaze
On May 18, 2019, firefighters were dispatched to Bradford Street for a fire in a row of seven connected structures. With fire showing in one of them, stiff winds from the west and heavy fire in the cockloft spread the fire to all seven buildings. Flames and explo-
sions in the rear brought the Troy Fire Department to the adjacent street, where they entered through the basement and fought the fire where it was melting the back siding of those homes. All the fire buildings were torn down. - Fire News photos by Martin E. Miller
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Mail Truck Fire in Woodstock
Glenmont MVA
On April 25, 2019, the Woodstock Fire Department was dispatched for a mail truck on fire. Units arrived within minutes to find a well involved vehicle. Members assisted the mailman in removing mail, and had the fire under control minutes after arrival. - Fire News photo courtesy of Patrick J. Rose; AC, Woodstock FD
On April 8, 2019, at around 1700, tones went out to Selkirk and Elsmere for a two-car MVA on Route 9W and Plank Road. At least two people were injured and taken to the hospital. It took crews approximately an hour to clean up the scene. - Fire News photo by Simon Lindmark
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Hillcrest Responds to SUV Fire
Just before 1730 hours on April 2, 2019, Broome County Communications dispatched Hillcrest (55) and Port Dickinson (35) Fire Departments to Nowlan Road and Chenango Street for an SUV on fire. Chief 55B arrived and reported a fire in the engine compartment of the SUV. Squad 55 responded and made quick work of the fire using a single handline. Also responding were Pumper Tanker 35 and Engine 55, the New York State Police and Broome County Fire Investigation Team. - Fire News photo by Nick Griswold
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Delmar MVA
Delmar Fire and EMS were toned out to an MVA at Line Drive and the Delmar Bypass for an SUV collided heavily into a tree. Bethlehem-Delmar EMS arrived within minutes and cared for the three toddlers and adult female who were involved. They were transported to the hospital where they were further checked and eventually released. - Fire News photo by Simon Lindmark
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Mahopac Falls Handles MVA Rollover
On May 17, 2019, Mahopac Falls Fire, EMS, Heavy Rescue and Fire Police were dispatched to a serious MVA on West Lake Bloulevard. Chief Brian Sacher took Incident Command for the second time in six hours as Captain Chris Tompkins handled Operations. Fire Police closed the road once all vehicles were on the scene. The lone occupant was out of the vehicle and stable. Multiple Carmel Police units were on the scene as were the medics from EMStar. The driver was transported to the hospital by Mahopac Falls Ambulance and once the car was loaded on to the flatbed, Fire Police opened the road to traffic. - Fire News photo by Jack Casey PIO, MFVFD
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Motorcycle MVA
In May, the Winona Lake Engine Company responded with Engine 322 to an MVA that involved a motorcycle. One person was injured and taken to an area hospital. Crews secured the scene and returned to quarters. - Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick
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Reverend Saved by CPR Meets the Crew
Reverend Jeffrey Thompson was preaching to a church in Queens on October 28, 2018, when he suddenly collapsed at the altar in cardiac arrest. Nearby civilians immediately started CPR and called 911. The first unit on scene, Engine Company 275, took over CPR, quickly followed by Paramedics Giovanni Reggler and Shaun King from Station 54 and Lieutenant John Marino from Station 50. They continued CPR, inserted a breathing tube, delivered shocks from a defibrillator and established an IV for medications. During the
transport of the Reverend to the hospital he began to regain consciousness. Because of the outstanding work of the firefighters and EMS crews, Reverend Thompson is alive today. On May 21, 2019, at the 25th Annual 2nd Chance Ceremony, Reverend Thompson got the chance to meet the crews who saved his life that October morning. The ceremony was held at the Liberty Warehouse in Brooklyn. - Fire News photo by Bryan Lopez
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Winona Lake Car Show a Hit
The Winona Lake Fire Department held its 4th annual car show at the Stop and Shop on May 19, 2019. Breakfast and lunch were served, door prizes given out, a 50/50 was held and trophies were awarded. Over 80 cars showed and the department wished to thank everyone who came out and helped. - Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick
Mahopac Fall Annual Inspection
Recently, the Mahopac Falls Fire Department opened their doors to neighboring fire companies with their annual inspection. Members of the Westchester County Judges Association went over all apparatus with white gloves and clipboards in hand. As company members awaited the results, Chief Brian Sacher welcomed all in attendance and introduced the fire line of officers. County Car 1, Ken Clair, agreed that the equipment was in tip-top shape because of the work done by the members. A nice surprise was brought to the floor as Battalion16 George Wahlers said that Mahopac Falls EMS had the best response time in Putnam County. With the introductions concluded, standings were announced. Third place went to 19-4-2; second place to 19-2-1; and first place to EMS Ambulance 19-7-1. Proud members held their trophies aloft to display their company spirit. As the excitement began to subside, members and guests sat down to share a meal and make new friendships. - Fire News photos by Jack Casey, PIO MFVFD
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Rainy Day MVA in Selkirk Selkirk Fire and Bethlehem-Delmar EMS were called out to a car-versus-tree MVA in the area of Route 396 and River Road on May 5, 2019. Bethlehem Police arrived first and checked the people inside the vehicle. The driver was unscathed, but the passenger was transported to the hospital with minor injuries. There was an extensive amount of damage done to private property, as multiple small trees were taken out as well as grass torn up due to the rainy, slick road conditions. - Fire News photo by Simon Lindmark
Schenectady Rollover MVA On May 12, 2019, Schenectady firefighters responded to a rollover MVA that took down a utility pole and trapped the driver near the intersection of McClellan Street and Rugby Road. The driver was taken by ambulance to Ellis Hospital for treatment. - Fire News photo by Peter Barber
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Fire Service Info Session, Breakfast Chief Gerry Paris, Albany County Sheriff’s Fire Coordinator, held the 3rd Annual Albany County Legislative Breakfast at Latham Fire Department on March 23, 2019. The breakfast brings together firefighters from across the county to meet with Legislators and FASNY to get up-to-date information on bills that will affect the fire service. On hand was Senator Paul Tonko and Assemblyman Phil Steck who showed their support for members of the fire service. - Fire News photos by Lori Washburn
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Easter Egg Hunt Fundraiser The Midway Fire Department held an Easter Egg Hunt on April 6, 2019, as a fundraiser for Josh Woodward, an Albany International Airport Firefighter. Josh has miraculously recovered from sepsis that claimed one hand and the toes on both feet. As he recovers the community continues to join together to give him support. During the egg hunt, participants were able to pick from a field of over 1000 eggs filled with candy and coins that they could turn in for prizes. The day included a bounce house, a miniature train to ride on and a baby lamb to pet. - Fire News photos Lori Washburn
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Page 42, Fire News, July 2019
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Jonesville Celebrates Its 100th
On May 18, 2019, the Jonesville Fire Company held a parade and party to celebrate 100 years of dedicated service to their community. The event began with a parade of fire departments from Saratoga, Schenectady and Albany counties. MacBoston 18 Truck Firefighter Memorial flew the American flag over the parade route. After the parade a celebration was held that included a carnival for the residents with rides for the kids, many types of food, live music from multiple bands and fire competitions. The firematic competitions included bucket brigade, tug-of-war and a donning of gear competition. - Fire News photos by Lori Washburn
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Fire News, July 2019, Page 44