VOLUME 7, NO. 10
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes In NY State AUGUST 2014
On July 5, 2014, Lt. Gordon M. Ambelas, Ladder 119, a 14-year-veteran of the FDNY died from injuries sustained while attempting to save lives at a second-alarm fire in the Williamsburg section of Brooklyn. See page 9 for full story. -Fire News photo by Bryan Grogan
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Fire News, August 2014, Page 3
In this issue... 2-Alarm Garage Fire in Yonkers
The Yonkers Fire Department was dispatched to a garage fire behind an apartment building on the city’s southwest side.
See story on page 6
Arson in Schenectady Fire?
Schenectady firefighters battle a twoalarm fire in a two-story wood frame house on Linden Street. See story on page 11
Hay Storage Ignites
Maplewood and Latham respond to a vehicle fire to find a storage trailer of wet hay that had ignited. See story on page 14
House Fire in Beacon
The City of Beacon Fire Department arrived on the scene to flames venting from second floor windows. See story on page 16
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, 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, 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
Chief Donald Corkery Installed as NYSAFC President
Sayville ex-Chief serves as president of the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs.
See story on page 26
E. Greenbush Explorers Train for the Future
East Greenbush Fire Department Explorers took part in a pump operators drill on June 11, 2014.
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PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 4 Announcements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 5 Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 16 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 17 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 LLC, with corporate offices at 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713.
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
Whew... I’m thinking about October! Many years ago, I worked with middle school students in a local village on Long Island. I loved my job and was dedicated to making sure my students were the best in whatever they wanted to do. Two - no three -- of the proudest moments of my life were when I fought the 1995 Wildfires and realized I was supplying water to some of my former students who were meeting the flames head on. Another proud moment was when I was taking a Fire News Motley Crew at a drill and asked the group how many had me as a teacher. Wow, all but one of the firefighters raised their hands. Finally, a few years before my retirement, I stood in uniform with many of my former students, mourning the loss of ex-Captain Jeff Weiner who was killed in Iraq. As a teacher, you learn to care about the young adults of whose lives you are a part. What made me have this nostalgic moment? Ironically, I thought of this when I read about the theme for Fire Prevention Week 2014. As a teacher, I took fire prevention seriously. I made sure my students "planned to get out alive" by drawing floor plans of their homes, highlighting escape routes and locating where smoke alarms were. One year I had students design a poster that incorporated a clever saying about the alarms. One student wrote, "If it wasn't for the beep, you would still be asleep!" A great saying that should have become a campaign slogan.
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Guess what theme the National Fire Protection Association has decided on for Fire Prevention Week 2014? "Working Smoke Alarms Save Lives: Test Yours Every Month!" For those of you who do not know it, Fire Prevention week is October 5-11. Have you started to plan your fire prevention program? Have you thought about ordering your "give-aways" so that you are ready to make a difference in the lives of our future; the children who love what you do and want to grow up to be firefighters and EMS providers. This year's fire prevention theme is important. "Smoke alarms can make a life-saving difference in a fire, but they need to be working," said Lorraine Carli, NFPA's vice president of Outreach and Advocacy. "Unfortunately, many home fire deaths result from fires where a smoke alarm is present but does not operate. This year's Fire Prevention Week theme focuses on motivating people to test their smoke alarms each month to make sure they're working properly." All of us in the fire service are teachers. Prepare yourself so you can reach out to your community to fight fires through education. Your efforts do make a difference in saving lives. Oh and by the way, are the smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors working in your home? …Dennis
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ANNOUNCEMENTS FIRST RESPONDER COLLECTABLE SHOW Hosted by Buchanan Engine C.O. #1 Saturday October 4, 2014 from 10 am to 3 pm 3159 Albany post road Buchanan, N.Y. 105011 Admission $5.00 at door & Vendors $15.00 for info Call Mike Scott (914) 419-4037 or Richard Novo (914) 2996103.
SENATE PASSES 9/11 LICENSE PLATES BILL On June 10, 2014, Senator Ken LaValle announced that the State Senate passed his legislation to establish special license plates for the victims of 9/11. The bill would commemorate all the victims of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks by authorizing the issuance of distinctive commemorative license plates. Portions of the charges collected for the plate would be used for the purpose of providing scholarship money for the families of September eleventh victims. Senator LaValle said, "On September 11, 2001, our nation and, in particular our state, experienced an unforgettable tragedy. Nearly 3,000 New Yorkers lost their lives as a result of the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center. The families of those who tragically lost their lives because of that infamous day can take some comfort in knowing that no one has forgotten, with an additional modicum of assuagement in knowing that their children will have scholarship funds set aside for college tuition." The LaValle bill recognizes and commemorates all of those affected by the attacks on the World Trade Center by authorizing the issuance of distinctive commemorative license plates, and would direct portions of the fees collected to be deposited into the World Trade Center Memorial Scholarship Program established in 2002. An annual service charge of $25 would apply to the plates. Twenty dollars of this annual sum
would be deposited to the credit of the World Trade Center Memorial Scholarship Program established under section 608 of the Education Law. The bill has been transferred to the Assembly for consideration.
FIRE SERVICE WOMEN OF NY 10 th ANNIVERSARY Fire Service Women of New York State is celebrating it's tenth anniversary this September 18-21, 2014, at the Annual Women's Weekend held at NY State Academy of Fire Science in Montour Falls, New York. This year we are offering both hands-on and classroom trainings including five courses, which, if successfully completed, will result in NY State certifications. More information can be found at www.fswnys.org.
FASNY GOLF OUTING The 1st Annual FASNY Fallen Firefighters Golf Outing will be held on Monday, August 18, 2014, at the Town of Colonie Golf Course, 418 Consaul Road, Schenectady. It will be a scramble format. Tee time is at 1100. Registration, coffee and doughnuts will be from 0900-1045. One four-member team entry includes lunch, cart, gift and invitation to the Awards Dinner Banquet for $360 per team. Individual entry is $90 per player and includes lunch, cart, gift and invitation to the Awards Dinner Banquet. Deadline for registration is August 8, 2014. Make your payments to FASNY Golf Tournament, 107 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY, 12210-2269. Visit www.FASNY.com for more information.
BLOWING UP BRUSH FIRES University of New South Wales (Australia) researchers are a step closer to demonstrating that explosives - rather than water - could be used to extinguish an out-of-control bushfire.
Dr. Graham Doig, of the School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, is conducting the research, which extends a long-standing technique used to put out oil well fires. The process is not dissimilar to blowing out a candle: it relies on a blast of air to knock a flame off its fuel source. Doig travelled to the Energetic Materials Research Testing Center - a high-explosives and bomb test site in a remote part of New Mexico - to scale up tests he originally conducted at UNSW's heat transfer and aerodynamics laboratory. The New Mexico tests used a 16-foot steel blast tube, which contained a cardboard cylinder wrapped in detonation cord, to produce a concentrated shockwave and rush of air. This was directed at a three-foothigh flame fueled by a propane burner. "The sudden change in pressure across the shockwave, and then the impulse of the airflow behind it pushed the flame straight off the fuel source," Doig explains. "As soon as the flame doesn't have access to fuel anymore, it stops burning." Doig hopes the concept can now be scaled up to fight out-of-control forest and bushfires burning in remote parts of the world. He wants to test if it is possible to blow flames out of treetops and knock any loose, dry material in the trees that is fuelling the fire to the forest floor, where it will burn more slowly, if at all. "Fire is very fast moving if it gets up into the tree tops. If the fire is still smouldering or burning on the forest floor, it's moving at a fraction of the speed, giving emergency services extra time to come in with water bombing or ground operations," Doig says. "We're thinking of this as being a potential way to stop a fast uncontrolled fire in its tracks and give you a lot more time to get things under control or evacuate people that are downwind of the blaze." Doig speculates that the explosive charge could be carried into place by a helicopter before being unleashed on the fire.
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2-Alarm Garage Fire in Yonkers
On June 20, 2014, the Yonkers Fire Department was dispatched to a garage fire behind an apartment building on Post Street on the city’s southwest side. Companies observed a large column of smoke in the distance and found a large garage heavily involved on arrival. The one-story structure housed multiple vehicles and drums of flammable liquids. Due to its limited access, companies had to be
redirected to adjoining streets and bring lines through backyards. A second alarm was transmitted for exposure problem as the structure became fully involved within minutes. Later that night, a second fire was quickly extinguished in a building less than a block away. - Fire News photos by Mike Messar
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Quick Work in Schenectady
Recently, Schenectady firefighters battled a fire in a house on lines were stretched and the fire was knocked down with out inciHamlin Street in the Hamilton Hill neighborhood of the city. Upon dent. No injuries were reported. - Fire News photos by Peter Barber arrival, firefighters found the roof above the rear porch ablaze. Two
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Quick Stop on Trailer Fire
Five Mile Point Handles Car Fire
On June 17, 2014, Broome County Dispatch started taking calls of a trailer fire on Loughlin Road in the Town of Kirkwood. The Five Mile Point Fire Department and NYS Police were dispatched. The first arriving trooper advised of a working fire and attempted to hold the fire which was in the ceiling at bay. The first arriving chief immediately requested mutual aid due to the warm temperatures of the day and then assisted the Trooper in using the extinguisher to hold the fire. Engine 59-1, Engine 59-2 and Squad 59 all responded in minutes. A single line was stretched into the trailer and crews used tools to dig the fire out of the ceiling. Due to temperatures, crews were rotated regularly. Five Mile Point Fire was assisted on scene by Kirkwood Fire, Conklin Fire, and West Windsor Fire. No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation. - Fire News photo by J.W. Hart
On June 18, 2014 Broome County Communications dispatched Five Mile Point Fire Department to Johnson Road for a car fire. Because training night crews were out in several locations inspecting Knox Boxes and preplanning the businesses utilizing the system, Chief 59, Engine 59-1, Squad 59, and Tanker 59 all responded. Engine 59-1 and Squad 59 arrived and used a handline to extinguish the fire located in the rear of the vehicle. Crews spent a few minutes gaining access to the trunk area and checking for any hot spots. Five Mile Point Fire was assisted on scene by the Broome County Sheriff’s Department. Crews stayed on scene and kept the road closed until the vehicle was towed. All units were back in service in about an hour. The cause of the fire was under investigation. - Fire News photo by J.W. Hart
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Lt. Gordon Ambelas Answers Last Alarm
On July 5, 2014, Lt. Gordon M. Ambelas of Ladder 119, a 14-yearveteran of the FDNY, died from injuries sustained while attempting to save lives at a second-alarm fire in the Williamsburg section of Brooklyn. Lt. Ambelas, 40, was searching for trapped occupants in a 19th floor apartment onWilson Street, when the fire flashed over and trapped him in a bedroom. He was found unconscious by fellow firefighters who removed him from the apartment and, along with EMS personnel, attempted to resuscitate him. He was transported to Woodhull Medical Center, where he later died. Lt. Ambelas and the members of Ladder Company 119 were recently honored by the community of Williamsburg for rescuing a sevenyear-old boy who was trapped in a roll down gate on Skillman Street on May 8. Lt. Ambelas, who lived on Staten Island, is survived by his wife, Nanette, and their two children. He will be missed by everyone whose lives he touched. -Fire News photos by Michael Glenn and Bryan Grogan
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Car Fire Turns to All-Hands
A car fire next to a South Jamaica house turned into an all-hands blaze in Queens on June 19, 2014. Flames from a burning vehicle in the driveway quickly spread to the first and second floors of the three-story home on 140th Street. - Fire News photos by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Fire News, August 2014, Page 11
Arson in Schenectady Fire?
Schenectady firefighters battle a two-alarm fire in a two-story wood to the extent of the fire, big lines and an exterior attack were utilized frame house on Linden Street. A man was seen running away from to save neighboring structures. - Fire News photos by Peter Barber the structure moments before the rear porch burst into flames. Due
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Colonie Home a Total Loss
On June 6, 2014, the Shaker Road-Loudonville, West Albany and Fuller Road fire departments were called to the scene of a structure fire on Osborne Road in Colonie. Upon arrival the garage had been fully consumed. There were multiple explosions of supplies stored in the garage sending containers flying. The home that adjoined the garage caught fire, and spread throughout the attic area quickly. The home was a total loss. No one was home at the time of the fire and the only occupant, a German shepherd, was rescued by West Albany Chief Graves. - Fire News photos by Lori Washburn
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Firemen’s Association Of The State Of New York Announces Youth Group Of The Year Award Winner: Lake Carmel Fire Department Explorer Post #2041 Awards presentation at Hudson Valley Volunteer Firemen's Association Convention The Firemen’s Association of the State of New York (FASNY) announced today that Lake Carmel Explorer Post No. 2041 has received the 2014 Youth Group of the Year Award, which is presented to a youth fire organization that exemplifies commitment to its volunteer fire department and community. The group received their award at the Hudson Valley Volunteer Firemen’s Association annual convention today at the West Glens Falls Fire Station. The Explorers were awarded service pins and a group plaque by FASNY President James Burns. “Each year we recognize a Youth Group for going above and beyond to set an example in their community and representing the best traits of the fire service,” said Beth Warner, FASNY Youth in the Fire Service Committee Chair. “The Lake Carmel Explorer Post No. 2041 has a great tradition of helping their community, the fire service community, and ensuring that they are training the leaders of tomorrow. Congratulations on this well-deserved award.” Lake Carmel Explorer Post No. 2041 participates and organizes a number of different events throughout the year to benefit their community and the fire service as a whole. For instance, the post has been hosting an annual training and competition weekend for the past 12 years in honor of a junior firefighter in Pennsylvania who was killed while biking to his post in 2002. The events focus on safety, training and camaraderie and feature fire departments from throughout the region. In addition, the Explorers take part in fire department drills, fundraisers and community events; and often visit local schools to teach fire prevention. They also organize trips to the NYS Firemen’s Home where they play games with the residents and send them birthday cards every month. The post also often visits with patients at the Westchester County Burn Center. The Lake Carmel Post is one of the few explorer programs in Putnam County and therefore is available to teens from neighboring towns. They often train with the Lake Carmel Post before returning to their local department to join as firefighters. The members of Lake Carmel Explorer Post are also active at ceremonial and community events. These young men and women have stood respectfully and attentively in their dress uniforms at wakes and memorial services, and are active participants in parades. In his recommendation letter, Lake Carmel Fire Lieutenant Ronnie Paulson explained how joining the Explorer Program was one of the best decisions of his life, allowing him the opportunity of a “second chance” at a time in his life that was filled with adolescent behavior. He credits the Explorers with getting him back on track and providing opportunities for success, which he seized upon. “Many of our current officers and several chiefs started in this Explorer post, which has the full support of our officers and membership,” said Lake Carmel Fire Chief Bill Walters. “These young people are out leaders of tomorrow and we couldn't be happier for them.” About the Award: The awards recipient (Explorer Group) must be active for at least a year; demonstrate dedication to their volunteer fire department and community through fire service-related projects, training, and community service; and exhibit qualities of honor, teamwork, and allegiance to the volunteer fire service. FASNY, founded in 1872, is the Firemen's Association of the State of New York (FASNY) represents the interests of the more than 92,000 volunteer firefighters and emergency medical personnel in New York State. For more information, visit www.fasny.com.
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2-Alarmer in Queens
Laundromat Fire in Queens
On June 9, 2014, FDNY units in the Elmhurst section of Queens operated at a two-alarm fire in a two-story, brick, attached private dwelling on Judge Street. The bulk of the blaze was in the rear of the house. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
FDNY units in the Ridgewood section of Queens were on the scene of a small fire in a laundromat on Bleeker Street on the morning of May 29, 2014. One handline was stretched while truck companies searched and vented the fire area. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
High Angle Rescue in Albany
Hay Storage Ignites
According to officials, the Albany Fire Department had a high angle rescue of an injured construction worker from a 80-foot platform under the Patroon Island Bridge on I-90. The worker was treated by AFD Paramedics on the scene, placed in a Stokes basket and than lowered to the ground by a crane and transported to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Albany was assisted by the Rensselaer and Troy Fire Departments and Mohawk Ambulance. - Fire News photo by Tom He ffernan
On June 14, 2014 Maplewood and Latham Fire Departments were called to respond to a vehicle fire. Upon arrival the vehicle turned out to be a storage trailer used by the local developer who used it to store hay. Due to the recent rains and the porous top, the hay had become saturated and combusted. Both Maplewood and Latham worked diligently to remove all of the hay and put out the extensive fire. - Fire News photo by Lori Washburn
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Fire News, August 2014, Page 15
Suspicious Fire in Schenectady
Heavy Fire in Buffalo
Schenectady firefighters battle a suspicious two-alarm fire on Emmett Street after flames were found consuming the second floor front porch of the building. No injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by Peter Barber
On the morning of June 2, 2014, Buffalo firefighters responded to multiple phone calls for a working fire in a vacant dwelling on Fargo Avenue. Engine 2 arrived and found heavy fire conditions on the second floor and attic. They attempted an interior attack but were backed out due to worsening conditions. - Fire News photo by Lloyd Mitchell
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House Fire in Beacon
On June 1, 2014, the City of Beacon Fire Department received a report of a structure fire on Depuyster Avenue. The first apparatus on the scene reported heavy fire with flames venting from the front second floor windows. All occupants were out. A second alarm was requested, bringing the Village of Fishkill FD and the Rombout FD to assist. Handlines were used on the second and attic levels. Rombout’s ladder was used to knock down the large volume of fire in the attic. Central Hudson Electric was called for a downed live power line. One cat was
rescued from the second floor and one cat perished. Crews remained on the scene for extensive over haul operations. Castle Point FD was on the scene as a FAST unit. Glenham and Hughsonville covered the City of Beacon. Beacon Volunteer Ambulance stood by at the scene. The Dutchess County Fire Investigation team was requested to the scene to determine the cause of the fire. Damage to the house was on the second and attic level, with smoke and water damage throughout. - Fire News photo courtesy of BFD
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Fire News, August 2014, Page 17
Car Into Building in Delmar
MVA in Winona Lake
On June 5, 2014, the Delmar and Elsmere Fire Departments responded to a reported vehicle into a building on Delaware Avenue in Delmar. Upon arrival they found that a Jeep SUV had slammed into a wall in front of the Verizon Building. The elderly female driver had just picked up her vehicle at a repair shop across the street. According to the driver, as she entered the roadway, the gas pedal stuck to the floor, propelling the SUV across the road into the stone wall. She was treated at the scene by the Town of Bethlehem Ambulance personal and Albany County Paramedics, then transported to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Bethlehem Police were investigating. - Fire News photo by Tom Heffernan
Recently, the Winona Lake Fire Department was called out for a car vs. motorcycle MVA on Route 17 and Route 300. The chief in charge call the Orange Lake Fire Department to set up an LZ. One person was transported to Westchester Medical Center. - Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick
NEW: VEHICLE EXTRICATION TECHNIQUES TRAINING BOOK AND APP BY HOLMATRO Holmatro introduces a brand new 256-page Vehicle Extrication Techniques training book. Written by our own Rescue Consultant Ian Dunbar, the book promotes a safe, methodical and casualty centered approach to the extrication of persons following road traffic accidents. Not only does it cover rescue tools and techniques, it also highlights key medical considerations and guides the rescuer through the process of efficient extrication planning. All vehicle extrication techniques described in the book are illustrated by pictures and have QR codes referring to videos on YouTube showing how to perform these procedures.
Languages and Availability
The book is currently available in the languages: English, French, Dutch, Russian and Chinese. Other language versions will be published later this year and include German, Spanish, Portuguese and Arabic. Copies are for sale through our worldwide dealer network. Find your dealer in the Vehicle Rescue section of our website www.holmatro.com.
App and Poster Series
The book is part of the new Vehicle Extrication Techniques series, which also includes an app for iPads and Android tablets and a poster series, explaining and illustrating various techniques and principles. Like the book, the app and posters will become available in multiple languages. You can buy the app in the App Store (for iPad2 and newer versions) and in the Google Play Store (for Android 4.0 tablets and newer versions). Search for: Holmatro Extrication.
Watch the Trailer Now!
To get an impression of what the new Vehicle Extrication Techniques programme is all about you can watch the trailer on holmatro.com/en/vet.
Page 18, Fire News, August 2014
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4 Injured in Feura Bush MVA On June 18, 2014, four people, including a woman who was pregnant, were transported to Albany Medical Center hospital in serious condition after a crash on Route 32, Indian Fields Road at Onesquethaw Creek Road. The Slingerlands Fire Department Heavy Rescue was requested to respond to the scene along with Onesquethaw Fire Company which extricated a trapped person after a lengthy period of time. Delmar-Bethlehem EMS, Onesquethaw Volunteer Ambulance, and Albany County Paramedics were on the scene. The Voorheesville Ambulance Service was on standby for Onesquethaw. - Fire News photo by Tom Heffernan
Rollover in Walden On June 5, 2014, units responded to a rollover call on Route 52 and Rider Road in Walden. The driver was extricated and medevac’d from the scene. Walkill Fire Department responded as mutual aid to the scene. - Fire News photo by Steve Lenz
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Between a Tree and a Hard Place The Albany Fire Department responded to a traffic accident on Water Street on June 21, 2014. Upon arrival they learned that the driver was forced off I-787 southbound across onto Water Street crashing into a garage, then getting wedged between the garage and a tree. The fire department used hydraulics to free the driver, who was transported to Albany Medical Hospital with nonlife threatening injuries according Battalion Chief William Moore. The Albany Police Department investigated the accident. - Fire News photo by Tom Heffernan
Greenbush MVA Recently, the East Greenbush Fire Department arrived at the scene of a report of a person trapped in a car after hitting a tree. An elderly woman trying to make a U-turn off a main road swung wide, crossed a driveway and went through a wooded area exiting into a back yard, then becoming entangled in a child’s jungle gym. Personnel helped her, uninjured out of the mess. Fortunately, there were no children playing at the time. - Fire News photo by Martin E. Miller EGFD
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Fire Chiefs Call Upon State to Help Save Lives The New York State Association of Fire Chiefs (NYSAFC), whose members gathered in Verona for the association’s 108th Annual Conference & FIRE 2014 Expo in mid-June, called upon Governor Cuomo, the Legislature, and the New York State Code Council (NYSCC) to adopt the International Residential Code without amendment. Adoption of the code would require the installation of residential sprinkler systems in all newly constructed one- and two-family homes. It would also require sprinkler installation in any one- and two-family homes undergoing renovation of more than 50 percent of the residence. The fire chiefs held a demonstration during the conference showing the effectiveness of residential sprinkler systems in saving lives and reducing damage from fire. During the demonstration two simulated residential rooms were set on fire. One room contained a sprinkler system and the other did not. According to NYSAFC Executive Director Jerry DeLuca, “Statistics show that the United States has the highest rate of fire deaths of any industrialized country. Approximately 85 per-
cent of all U.S. fire deaths occur in the home. Any actions that New York state can take to save the lives of New Yorkers must be a priority. Opponents of sprinkler systems will argue that the cost is too high, but that is not true —
how can you put a cost on human life?” A recent study found that the cost of installation of a sprinkler system in a new home was approximately $1.61 per square foot. In an average home this would be less than $3,000. Modern home construction methods are presenting new challenges to firefighters. Homes are no longer built using timber and
nails. Almost all of today’s homes contain composite materials, such as plywood or wafer board, and they are manufactured with highly combustible glues. Chief Donald Corkery, incoming president of NYSAFC said, “Modern construction methods demand the use of modern firefighting methods such as residential sprinkler systems. Sprinkler systems not only protect the home and homeowners, but also significantly reduce the potential for death or injury to firefighters. Modern homes burn much hotter and faster than older homes. Sprinklers knock down fire and reduce the levels of heat and toxic smoke that residents and firefighters must contend with.” NYSAFC recently passed a resolution urging the NYSCC to adopt the International Residential Code, which is updated every three years by a national consensus process that strikes a balance between the latest technology and new building products, economics and cost, while providing for the most recent advances in public and first responder safety. NYSAFC supports a requirement that sprinkler systems be installed in all residences subject to the provisions of the Residential Code of New York State.
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Fire News, August 2014, Page 21
The Firehouse Kitchen Pan Seared Pork Medallions with Pancetta, Cous Cous, Grilled Asparagus and Pan Drippings 1 - Pork Tenderloin, cut in 3 medallions pounded very thin 3 - thin slices Italian pancetta Place the pancetta on top of the pounded pork 1/4 cup cous-cous cooked and mixed with very small dice of carrot, yellow and green zucchini, 1/4 oz. olive oil and season to taste 3 each pencil asparagus seasoned and grilled evenly 3oz. good brown sauce 1/4 oz. soft butter Italian parsley chopped fine pepper mill and kosher salt to taste In a hot pan add olive oil and pork medallions pancetta side down and cook until crisp. Turn over to finish cooking. When done, remove pork and cover. Heat up cous cous with a small amount of chicken stock, in the pan the pork was cooked in. Deglaze with splash of white wine, add brown sauce, bring to boil and finish with small nut of butter. Adjust seasoning. To assemble, lay the cooked pork side by side, place couscous in a ring mold and lay the grilled asparagus across the top of the cous cous, drizzle pan drippings and ... enjoy.
I had the pleasure of cooking with Firefighter Rob Kloepfer of the Floral Park Fire Department. Once I entered the tight knit community it didn’t take much time to reach my destination. After all, the entire town is only one square mile. I stood in front of this big old building, which was Rob’s firehouse, the town hall AND the police department! I was greeted by the “always friendly,” Joseph O’Grady who escorted me upstairs to meet Rob. I was very impressed with his kitchen and the fact that he had the food prepped and was ready to film. I've never had a firefighter who was so well prepared. I was assured by my film crew that this was NOT a dream. Thanks to Firefighter Kloepfer’s efficiency we got right into cooking his pork medallions, which were DELICIOUS! I allotted 20 minutes for his segment, but only needed seven! After we breezed through the meal, I found out that Firefighter Kloepfer is no ordinary cook … he is the head chef and owner of Walkstreet, an American Grille restaurant located in Garden City. After cooking with Firefighter Kloepfer, I called my wife and told her to make reservations at his restaurant. Cooking with Rob was a great experience and I’d be happy to have him back on the show. Not only did we share in a great meal, but we also shared some great stories and, of course, laughs. Rob was also happy to share his recipe (left). If you’d like more firefighter recipes, information on how to be a guest on the show or become a sponsor of Firehouse Kitchen you can go to www.firehousekitchenshow.com. Be sure to check your local listings for upcoming episodes of Firehouse Kitchen! Ray Cooney, host of Firehouse Kitchen 631-514-5859 ray@firehousekitchenshow.com www.firehousekitchenshow.com
Page 22, Fire News, August 2014
8th Annual Rochester Area NFFF Golf Tourney Firefighters from across Monroe County and the Northeast region gathered together over the two-day tournament on June 8 and 9, 2014, at Deerfield Country Club to pay tribute to the fallen heroes from New York State, raise funds for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, play some golf and enjoy the brotherhood that fighting fires fosters. The opening ceremony kicked off the event with the Honor Guard provided by the Emergency Communications Department (911 Center) with bagpipe music courtesy of the Gates Police Keystone Club Pipes and Drums. This year's tribute was dedicated to two fallen heroes. Waterloo Fire Department’s Fire Police Captain Bernard Pete Scannell suffered a heart attack and went off the road while driving their rescue truck to a vehicle fire. The second fallen hero remembered here was Owego Fire Department Company #3’s Captain Matthew Porcari, who, while advancing on a fire in an interior fire attack in Newark Valley, had the floor collapse beneath him and a second firefighter. The other firefighter was able to free himself successfully, but Captain Porcari succumbed to his injuries shortly after arriving at the hospital. The Captain’s widow, Christina Porcari, was escorted by West Webster Fire Chief James Deisenroth during the ceremony. The local tournament is one of 30 held nationwide and has raised over $300,000 for the foundation during the eight years it has been in existence. - Submitted by Christopher R. Martin, PIO
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Fire News, August 2014, Page 23
Rockland County First Responder Discounts Rockland County Clerk Paul Piperato announced the establishment of a new program that offers local business discounts to Rockland’s volunteer emergency service workers. The Rockland S.A.V.E.S. Lives Program (Salutes All Volunteer Emergency Services) was created in recognition of the altruistic efforts of these volunteers, as well as the serious need for their recruitment and retention. Most of Rockland’s first responder agencies are comprised of unpaid volunteers (firefighters, ambulance personnel and auxiliary police). “In addition to selflessly working to insure that Rockland residents are safe, these volunteers save millions of dollars of taxpayer money. There is a severe shortage of volunteers and it is critical that new motivations be created to entice individuals to join agencies and continue to volunteer,” said
Piperato. The program begins today with 153 business discounts, ranging from automotive services to restaurants. Once the program is fully developed in Rockland, Piperato plans to help replicate it in other counties throughout New York State, and then the rest of the country. In 2008, Piperato introduced “Return the F.A.V.O.R. (Find and Assist Vets of Record) Program” in Rockland, a similar discount program for veterans. This program now boasts 700 business discounts, 4,000 veterans and has been replicated in 56 of New York State’s 62 counties. Deputy County Executive J. Guillermo Rosa and Gordon Wren, Director of Fire and Emergency Services both spoke about their support for the program and how it will benefit the County of Rockland.
Red Knights Tour 12 Firehouses Chapter III of the Red Knights Motorcycle Club held its third annual Grand Tour recently. The event is held each year during Americade in Lake George. Red Knights from various chapters across New York were joined by chapters from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Connecticut, ed: Luzerne-Hadley, Stony Creek, Thurman, Johnsburg, Riverside, Massachusetts, Vermont and Ottawa, Canada. This year, over 70 motor- Pottersfille, Chestertown, Horicon, Putnam, Whitehall and Fort Ann fire cycles and motorcyclists gathered at the Lake George firehouse to begin departments. The all-day tour netted almost 200 miles. - Fire News photo by Lori Washburn their tour of 12 firehouses throughout the Adirondacks. The tour includ-
Page 24, Fire News, August 2014
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NYS Parades
Summertime is parade season throughout New York State. The 67th Annual Village of Mamaroneck, NY Firemen's Parade was held on July 1, 2014. The parade brought out thousands of marchers and onlookers. On June 21, 2014, the Winona Lake Fire Department attended the Hudson Valley parade in Lake George. They returned with several class trophies. On June 14, 2014, Rensselaer County fire departments marched in the largest Flag Day parade in the country, first started in 1967. The procession through the city of Troy, was lined by thousands of people. The American Flag was honored by military units, marching bands and an Uncle Sam float. -Fire News photos by Mike Messar, Vinnie Dominick and Marty Miller
Page 26, Fire News, August 2014
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Chief Donald Corkery Installed as NYSAFC President
Congratulations to Sayville ex-Chief Donald Corkery as he serves as president of the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs. Chief Corkery was sworn into office at the NYSAFC Conference in Verona, by Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone. Firefighters throughout New York State and Long Island attended the ceremo-
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ny, along with Suffolk County Fire-Rescue and Emergency Services Commissioner Joe Williams and Deputy Commissioner John Jordan. Good luck to President Don Corkery as he leads the organization in 2014. -Fire News photos by Dennis Whittam
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Fire News, August 2014, Page 27
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Putnam County Family Fun Night
On June 14, 2014, the Putnam County Fire Departments attended the Hudson Valley Renegades game as an Annual Family Fun night out. With over 100 fire fighters in attendance they were asked to present the Colors for the National Anthem and help celebrate Flag Day. Lake Carmel, Carmel, Brewster, Mahopac and Mahopac Falls Fire Department banned together to form a Mutual Aid Color Guard for the event. Celebrating Mahopac Fire Department’s 100th Anniversary was also apart of the celebration.
E. Greenbush Explorers Train for the Future
East Greenbush Fire Department Explorers took part in a pump operators drill on June 11, 2014, with Nassau, West Sand Lake, Rensselaer and Schuyler Heights fire departments, under the watchful eye of instructor Tim Boel and his trainers. These kids are our future firefighters. - Fire News photo by Marty Miller EGFD
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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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Fire News, August 2014, Page 29
Rombout’s McGowen Gets 50 Year Award The Rombout Fire Company honored Jim McGowen for his 50 years of fire service. There to recognize his accomplishment was Bob Ruston from the New York State Volunteer Fire Police Association and FASNY representative Mike Devittiro to present Jim with a certificate. Jim first joined the Village of Fishkill Fire Department in June 1964, serving as first and second Lieutenant and Captain. On January 22, 1971, he joined and became a charter member of the Rombout Fire Company where he was elected as its first Captain. As Chief, Jim was instrumental in securing a grant for Rombout to be the very first fire company in Dutchess County to obtain hydraulic tools. - Fire News photo courtesy of Kevin Barry/RFD
REMO Awards For the fourth year in a row the Regional Emergency Medical Organization, based out of Albany, awarded several Greene County EMS providers with awards. BLS Provider of the Year was awarded to Diane Cross, Town of Ashland Ambulance. EMS Communications Specialist of the Year was Jim DiPerna, of the Greene County Emergency Services. Excellence in EMS Quality and Safety was awarded to the Durham Ambulance, Inc. Aidan O’Conor, Vice Chairman of the Greene County EMS Council, said, “We should all be very proud to be part of such an awesome team!” He thanked the awardees for their accomplishments, dedication and commitment to EMS in Greene County. Award winners from other counties were: ALS Provider of the year Paul Fink, Colonie EMS. EMS Agency of the Year was Albany County Sheriff’s Office EMS Unit. Youth Provider of the Year was James D. Dorward, Castleton Volunteer Ambulance. The Harriet C. Weber EMS Leadership Award was presented to Kevin Robert, Clifton Park-Halfmoon Emergency Corps. EMS Educator of Excellence was awarded to Raymond Davis. The Commissioner of Health’s Award of Excellence was to Dr. Michael Dailey. - Fire News photo by John C. Miller
Page 30, Fire News, August 2014
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DWI Simulation in Delmar
On June 6, 2014, as prom season kicked off, the Bethlehem Police Department along with the school’s MADD program put on a mock DWI crash for the high school students in the school parking lot. The exercise was to demonstrate what could happen when teens make the wrong choice of underage drinking and driving. The scenario had four students in one car, including a fatality, and a teenage female driver in the other vehicle who was charged with driving while intoxicated. The Slingerlands Heavy Rescue, Delmar Fire Department, Town of Bethlehem Ambulance Service, along with Albany County Paramedics took part in the demonstration. - Fire News photos by Tom Heffernan
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