VOLUME 10, NO. 10
Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes In NY State
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
AUGUST 2017
Story on page 6. - Fire News photo by Peter Barber
Fire News Welcomes All To The FASNY Convention – New York State Edition –
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Fire News, August 2017, Page 3
In this issue... Katonah 2-Alarmer
Katonah firefighters, along with mutual aid, responded to Allison Road for a house fire. See page 8
Watervliet Apartment Fire A signal 30 was transmitted and police cleared the structure, while firemen advanced lines on the fire which had gotten inside.
See story on page 13
Schenectady Co. House Fire
Firefighters from several Schenectady County volunteer departments were called out to battle a house fire on Cherokee Drive See story on page 15
Dumpster Fire in Latham
The Latham Fire Department, with the aid of Verdoy, Shaker Road and Boght, responded to a dumpster fire at Latham Farms Shopping Center. See story on page 24
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
Winona Lake Car Fire
COPYRIGHT 2017, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
On June 27, 2017, the Winona Lake Fire Department was called out for a car fire on Yeoman Road in the town of Newburgh. See story on page 28
Change Following Tragedy Dr. David Griffin of the Charleston (NC) Fire Department presented his program ‘In honor of the Charleston 9: a Study of Change Following Tragedy.’ to the Capital District.
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Six Editions Serving Long Island, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Pennsylvania Proud Member Of:
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PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 4 Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 20 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 22 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 32 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 33
Letters to the Editor, byline articles, and columns represent the opinions of the writers and photographers and are not necessarily the views of the Fire News. We reserve the right to edit all of the above. We are not responsible for errors in advertisements beyond the cost of advertising space. Copy submitted is subject to editing for space requirements. The placing of an advertisement in this publication does not constitute endorsement. Contents are copyrighted. Editorial and advertising copy cannot be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Fire News is published monthly by Fire News Inc, with corporate offices at 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713.
Page 4, Fire News, August 2017
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
Being Part of Something Bigger Fire News would like to offer its condolences to the family of Police Officer Miosotis Familia and to the New York City Police Department on the loss of this hero. Familia was a 12-year veteran of the NYPD, who was senselessly assassinated by a coward, while she was doing her job. I hope our leaders in government realize that the lives of all first responders working throughout our nation are at risk while they try to do a job that is designed to help the people they serve. I caution all first responders to be vigilant as they go about their daily duties. Every first responder that I know is proud of the job that they do. Our responders are the first line of defense in protecting the people of our country. They are proud to serve and protect the people of their community, no matter what the call is. First responders are proud of their country. As part of their uniform, they wear the American flag, which serves as a reminder to everyone that first responders are the first line of defense in keeping everyone safe. I was taught at a young age to respect the
American flag, along with the people who live under it and who wear it. The flag serves as a reminder that all first responders are part of something bigger. Along with our military, first responders risk their lives to keep us safe and free. (An aside: take the time to visit the website of the US Department of Veteran's Affairs. They have a PDF highlighting the guidelines for displaying the flag at www.va.gov/opa/publications/celebrate/flag display.pdf.) For those of us who display the American flag at our homes, take the time to reflect on its true meaning. When you leave your home to respond to a call, glance at the flag to remember you are the first line of defense in protecting the community that lives under this symbol of greatness. There is current legislation that is being voted on called the Honoring Hometown Heroes Act. H.R. 1892 was introduced by Connecticut Congressman John Larson on April 4, 2017. The Senate version, S.1108, was introduced by Montana Senator Jon
Tester on May 11. The legislation amends the U.S. Flag Code, affirming the ability of state governors, as well as the mayor of the District of Columbia, to order the lowering of the United States flag to half-staff in the event of the death of a first responder in the line-of-duty. Please encourage your leaders in government to support this bill. Visit the Congressional Fire Service Institutes website at www.CFSI.org to follow the fate of this bill. Be proud of what you do as a first responder, but more importantly, stay vigilant as you serve your community. Let Police Officer Miosotis Familia's murder serve as a reminder that all of you are at risk as you try to protect the people you serve. ‌Dennis
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In Memoriam
NYPD Officer Miosotis Familia We at Fire News would like to express our condolences to the family of NYPD Officer Miosotis Familia, 48, of the Bronx 46th Precinct who was assassinated on July 5, 2017, while sitting in her mobile command vehicle at the corner of East 183rd Street and Morris Avenue. Familia was a 12-year veteran with the NYPD and leaves behind 12year-old twins (Peter and Delilah) and a 20-year-old daughter, Gennie. Miosotis was one of 10 children raised in Washington Heights before she and her family moved to the Bronx. At her funeral service on July 12, Miosotis was posthumously promoted to Detective First Grade. The funeral was held 12 years to the day from when she joined the NYPD. New York City Police Commissioner James P. O’Neill said, “This amazing woman, this mother, this daughter, this sister, this friend, this New York City Police Officer, was assassinated solely because of what she represented and for the responsibility she embraced. All her killer could see was a uniform, even though Miosotis was so much more ... There is nothing more human than a 48-year old mother of three, living
in the Bronx, who decided to swear an oath, put on a uniform and live a life with meaning.” According to The New York Times, Familia was only the third female officer killed in the department’s history. Her killer fled the scene but was shot and killed by police. “So where are the demonstrations for this single mom, who cared for her elderly mother and own three children? ... Why is there no outrage?” asked Commissioner O’Neill. Our condolences to the NYPD and Detective Miosotis Familia’s children and family. -Fire News photos by Lloyd Mitchell
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Cover Story
Unattended Grill Starts Fire
Schenectady firefighters called two alarms to battle a house fire on Brandywine Avenue on June 21, 2017. Flames engulfed the back porch of the residence and extended to the second floor and attic. All occupants escaped unharmed and the fire was brought under control in less than an hour. The fire was caused by an unattended propane gas grill. - Fire News photos by Peter Barber
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Katonah 2-Alarmer
On April 18, 2017, Katonah firefighters, along with mutual aid, responded to Allison Road for a house fire. Units were met with a large fire, which was already through the roof. Fire crews knocked down the blaze within an hour’s time. - Fire News photos by PuckStopperPhotography.com
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Rye Brush Fire On April 17, 2017, the Rye Fire Department, along with mutual aid from around the county, responded to the marshlands at the Rye Marshlands Conservancy on Boston Post Road, and found a three-acre brush fire, aided by a steady wind. FDNY marine units training in the area joined in on fighting the brush fire, as did a helicopter from Westchester County Police with a Bambi bucket. - Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com
Quick Knockdown in Queens Village FDNY companies were called to a home on 219th Street in Queens Village on June 18, 2017. Handlines were stretched for a fire in the basement of a two-story house and the blaze was quickly brought under control. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Good Saves in Queens
Sailboat Grounding
Two residents of a Queens apartment house suffered minor injuries after a fire broke out on the first floor of their building on 32nd Avenue in northern Queens on June 15, 2016. FDNY firefighters arrived to a raging fire in an apartment on the first floor. Several residents who were trapped on fire escapes and perched at apartment windows needed assistance from firefighters to escape safely. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
The Amsterdam Fire Department, assisted by the Montgomery County Sherriff’s Office, helped free a 40-foot sailboat that became stuck in the Mohawk River with passengers on board, just west of the Mohawk Valley Gateway Overlook pedestrian bridge. - Fire News photo by MarkPerfettiPhotography.com
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Any Landing You Walk Away From...
The Selkirk Fire Department, along with the Bethlehem Police Department responded to South Albany Airport in South Bethlehem, for a report of a small aircraft down. Upon arrival they located a 1961 Piper airplane nose down on the runway. The pilot was practicing landings and landed just short of the runway, causing the front landing wheel to go into the soft ground, which, in turn, caused the nose of the plane to slide along the runway before the plane came to a rest. The sole pilot was uninjured and there was no fire. Albany Co. Paramedics and Bethlehem Ambulance Service also responded. The plane was cleared from the runway in about two hours. -Fire News photo by Tom Heffernan
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Latham Hotel Fire
Latham, Shaker Road-Loudonville, Verdoy and West Albany fire departments were called to Towne Suites in Latham for a structure fire early on June 10, 2017. Upon arrival, smoke was escaping through the front lobby area. The fire began in an overloaded dryer. The fire was contained and multiple fans were used to ventilate the building prior to clients being allowed back. - Fire News photo by Lori Washburn
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Two Rescues at Poughkeepsie Blaze
City of Poughkeepsie Fire Department, along with Arlington and Fairview, operated at a structure fire in a multi-occupancy residence on Hooker Avenue on June 14, 2017. Lieutenant Steve Bauer and Firefighters Paul Bucher, Brian Ineson and Eric Kelly, who had a handline, made their way to a room where a woman was possibly trapped. As they entered the room, it reportedly flashed over just as they heard a voice call for help. They located a woman sitting up in bed and Bauer and Bucher, with the help of Firefighter Andrew
Clegg, proceeded under extreme fire conditions to remove the victim. The woman had received extremely serious burns and was turned over to Mobile Life paramedics who worked to stabilize her. A second rescue of a trapped individual was made by Firefighter Tim Flynn through a second-floor window. At least two firefighters were transported with injuries one of which was Lieutenant Bauer who suffered burns. - Fire News photos by Bill Johnson
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Watervliet Apartment Fire
Good Job at Niskayuna Deck Fire
On June 12, 2017, a woman reported a fire on the outside wall of her Van Rensseelaer Village Apartment Complex. Police and fire units responding reported a column of black smoke in the area. A signal 30 was transmitted and police cleared the structure, while firemen advanced lines on the fire which had gotten inside. The Watervliet Arsenal ladder truck was set up about 100 feet in the rear of the building where the fire had climbed the wall, entered into the attic and was showing through the roof. With help from Cohoes, Green Island, Troy and Albany on a 90-degree day, the fire was knocked down in about 45 minutes. - Fire News photo by Martin E. Miller
Recently, crews from Stanford Heights, Niskayuna Fire Company 1 and Colonie Fire Company’s FAST responded to a structure fire on Clute Crescent Boulevard in Niskayuna. Upon arrival, firefighters found a grill on a backyard deck on fire. Stanford Heights continued to try to cool the propane tank as the gas expelled. The quick response of the departments saved the home and the deck from severe damage. No one was injured in the fire. - Fire News photo by Lori Washburn
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New Hackensack Fire
New Hackensack firefighters, assisted by EMSTAR Medics, the Kent Road on June 25, 2017. The initial caller and thus the dispatch DCSO, NYSP, Hughsonville Fire Department with their FAST, and by DC911 reported that there were possibly children trapped in the Wappingers Fire Department on the relocate, operated at a struc- structure. Fortunately, this proved not to be true. - Fire News photos by Bill Johnson ture fire at a multi-occupancy balloon construction residence on
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Schenectady Co. House Fire
Firefighters from several Schenectady County volunteer departments were called out to battle a house fire on Cherokee Drive on May 27, 2017. The fire originated in the back of the house and extended to the upper floors. No one was injured. - Fire News photos by Peter Barber
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Washingtonville Assists with Fall Victim
On June 27, 2017, the Washingtonville Fire Department assisted Blooming Grove Volunteer Ambulance Corps in the removal of a person who fell approximately 20 feet in a wooded area off of Nichol Street in Washingtonville. He was transported to the hospital with serious injuries. The Washingtonville Police Department investigated. - Fire News photo by Gary Hearn
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Washingtonville 3-Alarmer
Early on June 27, 2017, the Washingtonville Fire Department received a call for smoke coming from a building on East Main Street in Washingtonville. Upon arrival firefighters found heavy smoke emanating from the rear of the building. Firefighters forced entry, conducted searches and extinguished the fire. The age of the building and the many renovations to it over the years contributed to fire extending to the apartments above and to the apartments in the rear. Seven occupants were displaced. The following departments also operated at the three-alarm fire: Salisbury Mills, South Blooming Grove, Monroe, Vails Gate, Chester, Maybrook, Campbell Hall, Coldenham, Woodbury, Montgomery, City of Newburgh and Cornwall. Cornwall-on-the-Hudson stood-by in Washingtonville. - Fire News photo by Gary Hearn
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Fire News, August 2017, Page 17
Close Call in Amsterdam
Amsterdam Firefighters extinguished a lift truck fire at the Amsterdam Free Library. A passerby called in the blaze in the early morning of June 20, 2017. The historic building suffered exterior damage and the lift was a total loss. - Fire News photos by MarkPerfettiPhotography.com
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Stopped Just in Time
On June 10, 2017, the Colonie Fire Company, along with Fuller grease fire had expanded through the ventilation system of the Road, Midway, Verdoy and West Albany, were called to a structure building. The fire was contained just prior to expanding through fire at the Smokey Bones Bar and Fire Grill on Central Avenue in the roof. One fire chief was treated at the scene for heat exhaustion. - Fire News photos by Lori Washburn and Tom Heffernan Colonie. Upon arrival, smoke was bellowing out of the restaurant. The departments quickly laid a line into the kitchen area where a
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Firehouse Kitchen In a very funny e-mail I received from the Sloatsburg Fire Department, located in upstate New York, they commented on the show I did with Firefighter Mike Brockbank from the FDNY. Mike was cooking with a plastic fork. In Mike’s defense, all the silverware was locked up in the firehouse in which we were cooking and house watch couldn’t find the key. So like any good fireman, fireman find a way! This spurred the Sloatsburg comment, “Why don’t you come to Sloatsburg to film a show, where we have real knives and forks to cook with?” I happily accepted. Sloatsburg is a beautiful, little town about 15-miles northwest of the Hudson River (off the New York Thruway). When I arrived at the firehouse, they were just getting back from a run. I said to one of the firemen, as he was stepping out of his bunker gear, “Hi. I’m Firefighter Ray and I’m here to film Firehouse Kitchen.” He replied, with a big smile, “Oh, you’re the guy. The cook’s committee is in the back.” The firehouse was an old one. It had a recreational room that looked like the inside of an old barn, but in a good way. It added to the old-time country feel of the town. Around back, I met John Barcowski, Jack Collins and Ronnie Herman. John was the head cook and was bigger than life. John, with a great big smile, asked, “Are you ready for some jambalaya? But first, we have to have an adult beverage.” I said with a smirk, “Of course we do.” This turned out to be a great show. John and Jack had great chemistry cooking together. They were ‘busting each other’s chops,’ telling fire stories and sharing Sloatsburg history, while Ronnie did all the prep work in the background. He was the man behind the scenes. On this episode, I introduced our firehouse pride moment. Sloatsburg’s pride was a 1954 Dodge pickup. It was a small pick-up with four-wheel-drive that had a pumper on it and could go anywhere! It was perfect for brush fires. Hey, they are in the Catskills, so it’s an essential vehicle for their department. The jambalaya was delicious, and we made some heart attack Italian bread. It wasn’t so much the meal that made my experience at this firehouse one to remember, it was the guys. To find out more about Firehouse Kitchen or how to become a sponsor, visit firehousekitchenshow.com or visit us on facebook.
SLOATSBURG'S JAMBAYALA (serves 4)
3 Kielbasa links 3 green peppers 2 onions 1 lb. raw, peeled shrimp 1 lb. crayfish tails Garlic powder
Cajun seasoning 1 cup Sliced green olives 1 cup rice 1 cup water Salt and pepper
Slice kielbasa, peppers, onions and olives. Make sure all shrimp and crayfish are de-shelled. In a large sauce pan, sauté kielbasa until golden brown. Add green peppers and onions. As they soften, juices will fill the pan. Pour in cup of dried rice (add water if needed). Reduce to a high simmer and cover. Once rice is cooked, add shrimp and crayfish. Use garlic powder, salt and pepper and cajun seasoning to taste. Mix together. Add more water if needed. When just about done, add the olives. Stir together and serve.
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Yonkers 2-Alarm Apartment Fire
On May 18, 2017, Yonkers firefighters responded to a fire in an rapidly deteriorated forcing firefighters to go into a defensive operapartment under construction on Warburton Avenue. Upon arrival, ation. - Fire News photos by PuckStopperPhotography.com crews found a fire on the top floor, but within minutes conditions
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Colurciello Retires
On June 27, 2017, Car 2 — Andy Colurciello — retired after 30 years of service to the company and the community. Andy was presented with a plaque for his service. - Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick
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FDSOA APPARATUS SYMPOSIUM CELEBRATES 30TH ANNIVERSARY The Fire Department Safety Officers Association (FDSOA) Annual Apparatus Maintenance and Specification Symposium will celebrate its 30th Anniversary January 15-17, 2018, in Scottsdale, Arizona. The first symposium was created after a series of meetings initiated by the International Association of Fire Chiefs’ staff, fire chiefs, several state mechanics’ associations and the Fire Apparatus Manufacturers Association to address issues concerning apparatus, maintenance and maintenance personnel. I n 1 9 8 8 , the f ir st Appa r a tus Maintenance and Specification Symposium was held in Fort Worth, Texas, through the efforts of Fire Chief Larry McMillen, Fort Worth Fire Department, Bob Barraclough, Span Instruments, and Mary McCormack, International Society of Fire Service Instructors (ISFSI). In 1989, after the Fire Department Safety Officers Association (FDSOA) was established as a subsidiary of the ISFSI, the Apparatus Symposium was moved to a hotel on Sandlake Road in Orlando,
Florida. The symposium was designed to be educational and limited to table tops, not exhibits. Topics covered a range from preventive maintenance efforts to issues of liability and new safety standards. As the conference grew, it moved to the Rosen Plaza hotel on International Drive. In 2013, the FDSOA headquarters were moved from Massachusetts to Michigan, and the Apparatus Symposium and the annual Safety Forum are co-located and held the same week, alternating between Orlando and Scottsdale, AZ. “Thirty years is a major accomplishment to sustain a very unique conference,” said Rich Marinucci, executive director for FDSOA. “Fire apparatus has changed significantly over the past thirty years and most importantly, the focus on safer apparatus for fire and EMS personnel. FDSOA is proud to continue to support improvements and education in safety.” T h e 3 0 t h F D S O A A n n u a l Apparatus Maintenance and Specification Symposium will feature keynote speakers: Brad Pinsky, attorney and fire chief; Garry Briese, executive director, Colorado State Fire Chiefs; and Chief Bruce Varner (ret.). For further details: Rich Marinucci, e-mail: fdsoa@fdsoa.org.
REGISTRATION NOW OPEN! AT THE FIRE OFFICER TRAINING ACADEMY At Fire Officer Training Academy our goal is to see you succeed. booklets (scenarios and questions, and one with diagrams, pictures We offer classes that specialize in getting you prepared to take a pro- and maps), and an answer sheet just like the day of your exam. This motional or entry-level exam. Our results are outclass will include a quick coaching session on what standing and speak for themselves. Classes are led to be aware of while taking the exam and then a 2by Deputy Chief Paul Drennan, JCFD. 1/2 hour timed mock exam. After the test, we will The instructors’ dedication and personal investreview your answers. There’s nothing else out there ment to each student is what sets us apart from our like this class and it is an invaluable study tool. competition. We have developed a strategy to teach Our highly motivated entry-level written class is you how to learn the information you need and designed to not only give you the right information effectively answer the questions for top ranking you need, but teach you how to take this timed writresults. Some of the current classes we are offering ten portion. We know how important this is because for lieutenant and captain promotional tests are the you will be ranked on the list with your written score. specific book breakdowns on the civil service readThe entry-level PPT (Physical Performance ing list and mock testing. During the book breakTest) is a mock course set up to mimic the actual down classes, we move you through the book, test. You can run through this course as many times breaking it down chapter by chapter, highlighting as you wish prior to your test. We not only motivate the important information that you need to retain you through this, but give you tips to cut seconds for the test and give you study guides and practice off your time. tests after each book. Please visit fireofficertrainingacademy.com or In our 2-1/2 hour ‘mock’ written exam classes call 732-779-9214 for information on any of our we have developed an exam with nine scenarios and over 90 multi- upcoming classes or to reserve your seat today. ple-choice question, set up exactly like the day of your exam with two
HONORING OUR FALLEN FIREFIGHTERS
Register for the 3rd Annual National Stair Climb for Fallen Firefighters at Belmont Park • The event will take place on Sunday, October 1, 2017, at Belmont Park. Register in advance at www.nationalstairclimb.org.
• Can’t be in New York? Join in the virtual climb! Learn more at www.nationalstairclimb.org
• Fees: $35 for the Climb. $50 for the Climb and After Party. $50 for Climb Supporters and After Party
• Proceeds benefit FDNY Counseling Services Unit (CSU) and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF)
floors in the Twin Towers. All climbers will receive a t-shirt On October 1, 2017, join hundreds of other firefighters and a name badge for the firefighter they are honoring. in New York to honor the fallen at the 3rd Annual The stair climb is a family event and we encourage National Stair Climb for Fallen Firefighters at you to bring your spouses, children, family and Belmont Park. friends. An After-Climb Party and Races will begin “The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation at 1130, featuring a BBQ buffet and unlimited performs extraordinary work providing resources draft beer and soda. There will also be bounce casfor the families of fallen heroes across the countles, pony rides and fun for the entire family. In try,” said Fire Commissioner Daniel A. Nigro. “By addition, the New York Racing Association will rafclimbing steps each year, every participant not only fle two 2018 Belmont Stakes Day reserved seats valraises funds to support the families of FDNY memued at $200 each, and will assign a minimum of five bers who made the Supreme Sacrifice, they also ensure race names for the FDNY to use to honor their fallen. those we have lost are never forgotten.” For more information and to register, go to www.nationalstairGates open and on-site registration begins at 0830. Firefighters will climb the equivalent of 110 stories to symbolize the number of climb.org.
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Dumpster Fire in Latham
Propane Leak in Washingtonville
The Latham Fire Department, with the aid of Verdoy, Shaker Road and Boght, responded to a dumpster fire at Latham Farms Shopping Center. The large commercial dumpster was actually a compactor up against the building. Smoke and flames could be seen throughout the unit but access was hard due to its location and the location of the fire, which was in the middle of the unit. Many attempts were made to cut holes in the dumpster, but still the fire could not be reached. A front loader was brought in to move the dumpster away from the building to allow access to the interior. Eventually the loader lifted and moved the dumpster, emptying its contents onto the pavement so firefighters could pull it apart and extinguish the fire. - Fire News photo by Lori Washburn
On June 21, 2017, the Washingtonville Fire Department responded to a leaking 100-gallon propane tank to the rear of a residence on Manor Drive in Washingtonville. The leak was in its liquid state. Three residences were evacuated. Two fog handlines were operated to dissipate the vapors. Because the leak could not be stopped and the contents of the tank could not be transferred, due to a delayed response by the propane company, the Orange County Hazardous Materials team was requested and the contents flared off. The duration of the operation was four hours. - Fire News photo by Gary Hearn
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New Unit for Schodack Landing
On December 22, 2016, an SUV was stolen from the Schodack Fire Department and later involved in a police chase, before wrecking on the Amtrak tracks. The thief was apprehended, convicted, jailed and paid restitution to the Schodack Landing Fire Company. The company would like to thank Bill Asprion, salesman for DeNooyer
Chevrolet (Colonie); Star Lighting Manufacturer (Avon) for donating the light package; Don Simpson of AMS Security Plus for installing the electronic equipment; Brian Jr. of Stripes Sign Shop; and Gene Lawlor for the design layout, lighting and graphics. - Fire News photo by Tom Heffernan
Page 26, Fire News, August 2017
Schenectady MVA Cement Mixer Wins
On June 16, 2017, Schenectady firefighters responded to an MVA between a cement mixer and a four-door sedan at McClellan Street and Wyoming Avenue. The driver of the car failed to yield the right of way at an intersection and crossed the path of a cement mixer. The driver was taken to an area hospital for treatment of minor injuries. - Fire News photo by Peter Barber
No Sense Crying Over Spilled ‌
On March 3, 2017, Rensselaer County Dispatch toned out the Defreestville Fire Department for a tanker rollover on Interstate 90. Wyantskill and East Greenbush responded on mutual aid, because it was first thought the truck contained gasoline. Closer investigation revealed the truck to be a milk tanker, which had spilled 2000 gallons of product. An attempt was made to stop the flow and the scene was turned over to the New York State Police and DEC. The driver suffered only minor injuries. - Fire News photo by Martin E. Miller
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Drugged Driving MVA
On June 19, 2017, the driver of an SUV was arrested for driving under the influence of heroin when he veered into oncoming traffic on Troy-Schenectady Road, hitting a vehicle containing a pregnant driver head-on. The woman was taken to Albany Medical Center for treatment. - Fire News photo by Peter Barber
Route 6N MVA
Mahopac Falls Fire, along with Mahopac Fire, responded to the area of Hill Street and Route 6N to assist police at an MVA with fluid spill. Fire police set to work closing the road as a Mahopac engine arrived. Incident Command MFVFD Captain Dave Lapadula cancelled the EMS response as no one was injured. - Fire News photo by Jack Casey
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I-90 Car Fire
Magnesium Popping at Car Fire
A report of a vehicle fire on I- 90 made it necessary to shut down the eastbound lanes to get apparatus to the scene from the east. The truck had an engine fire, and spread to a container of gasoline which ignited causing a bed of black smoke, which backed up traffic. It was a quick knock down by East Greenbush crews. - Fire News photos by Martin E. Miller
Schenectady firefighters battled a car fire at the intersection of Landon and Windsor Terrace. Several explosions were heard on arrival of Deputy Chief Don Mareno. Magnesium sent a shower of sparks and a flash of white light after being hit by a stream of water from the attack line. Damage was confined to the vehicle and no injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by Peter Barber
Route 84 Car Fire
Winona Lake Car Fire
The Winona Lake Fire Department was called out for a car fire on Route 84 westbound near exit 8. The vehicle was fully involved on arrival. - Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick
On June 27, 2017, the Winona Lake Fire Department was called out for a car fire on Yeoman Road in the town of Newburgh. The vehicle was fully involved on arrival. - Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick
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Lisa Nunez Gets Educator of the Year
On June 3, 2017, Lisa Nunez was presented with the Educator of the Year award at the Orange County Firefighters Museum. -Fire News photos by Vinnie Dominick
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Story Telling in Hudson
The young, the storyteller, and the memories. From the 125th Anniversary events at the FASNY Firemen’s Home in Hudson, NY. - Fire News photos by Ed Harvey
Brooks Honors Fallen EMS Responders
Senator John Brooks honored the dedication and sacrifice of Emergency Medical Services responders in a memorial ceremony held on the Empire State Plaza in Albany. The ceremony was held as part of EMS Week. During the ceremony, three heroes were added to the EMS Memorial: Stephanie B. Potter of Moira, Norman Valle of the Bronx, and Larry Fuller of Jamaica, Queens. Senator Brooks, a former fire chief, remarked, “EMS responders show up to help others during their most desperate moments. They are quiet heroes who leave their families, the comfort of their home, and miss events without hesitation when they are called to duty. Day in and day out, they make sacrifices to protect our most vulnerable, and never ask for anything in return. There are no words that could ever fully express my gratitude for the sacrifice made by these heroes and their families.” - Fire News photo provided
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Change Following Tragedy
Dr. David Griffin of the Charleston (NC) Fire Department was invited to the Capital District by the Town of Colonie Fire Departments to present his program, ‘In honor of the Charleston 9: a Study of Change Following Tragedy.’ His dynamic program dealt with how the fire service needs to evolve and how accountability is key to the safety of firefighters. Dr. Griffin spoke to a large group of
firefighters from around the Capital Region on how preparation, status quo and other factors led to the deaths of nine firefighters 10 years ago in a furniture store fire. Video, live feed, and questions and answers during this remarkable seminar left every member of the audience thinking of ways they can do their job better. - Fire News photos by Lori Washburn
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Fire News, August 2017, Page 33
Floral Park Ex-Chief Joseph O’Grady Named NYS Volunteer Chief of the Year
Scarsdale Fire Chief Thomas Cain NYS Career Chief of the Year
The New York State Association of Fire Chiefs (NYSAFC) announced the 2017 recipient of its New York State Volunteer Fire Chief of the Year Award was ex-Chief Joseph O’Grady of the Floral Park Fire Department. O’Grady has been a member of the Floral Park Fire Department since 1984 and advanced through the ranks from Firefighter to Chief of the Department. He also served as Secretary and was Chairman of the department’s Recruitment and Publicity committees. O’Grady was recognized not only for his exemplary leadership and outstanding service to his community thorough his work with the Floral Park Fire Department, but also for his tireless efforts to assist America’s wounded veterans in his role as chairman of the Nassau County Firefighters Operation Wounded Warrior organization. (Left to right): NYSAFC President Joseph Fahd, ex-Chief Joseph O’Grady, and NYSAFC Executive Director Jerry DeLuca. - Fire News photo by Walter Tomasik
NYSAFC also announced the 2017 recipient of its New York State Career Fire Chief of the Year Award, Chief Thomas M. Cain of the Scarsdale Fire Department. Cain began his fire service career as an explorer with the Fairview Fire District in 1979, then served as a volunteer with Fairview until becoming a professional firefighter with Scarsdale. During his tenure, he rose through the ranks from Firefighter to Chief of the Department. A member of the NYSAFC since 2005, he was elected to its board of directors in 2012. Cain was also a member of the Career Fire Chiefs of NYS, where he served as a board member and treasurer, the Westchester County Career FCA, the NFPA, and the IAFC, and also served as a nationally certified fire service instructor level II. He holds a degree in fire service administration. Cain’s level of professionalism and dedication to his department and to the fire service of New York was evident through his staunch advocacy for the advanced education and training. Cain was also instrumental in launching and organizing NYSAFC’s annual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. (Left to right): NYSAFC Executive Director Gerald DeLuca, retired-Chief Thomas Cain, and NYSAFC President Joseph Fahd. - Fire News photo by Walter Tomasik
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Parades of Summer
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The week of June 14, 2017, the Hudson Valley Volunteer Too.” Saturday the annual Dress Parade brought in 100 fire departFirefighters Association held its 128th Annual Convention and ments from throughout the area to participate for trophies. - Fire News photo by Lori Washburn Parade. The event cumulated with a Mardi Gras Parade. The theme of the parade this year was “Red, White, Blue, Lights and Sirens
Hudson Valley VFA Parade On June 16, 2017, West Glens Falls held their 128th Hudson Valley Volunteer Firemen’s Association parade. Over 100 companies marched in the parade on a beautiful day. - Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick
East Greenbush A great weekend for parades at the convention. - Fire News photo by Martin E. Miller
Winnona Lake Aux. Score Best Overall
Town of Newburgh Memorial Day Parade The Winona Lake Fire Department engine company at the Town of Newburgh Memorial day parade. - Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick
On June 16, 2017, the Winona Lake F i re De pa r t me n t L a di e s Aux i l i a r y took best overall at the 128 Hudson Va l l e y Vo l u n t e e r Firefighters Parade. - Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick