VOLUME 10, NO. 11
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes In NY State SEPTEMBER 2017
Story on page 6 -Fire News photo by Peter Barber
9-11-01 Remember Our Heroes. – New York State Edition –
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Fire News, September 2017, Page 3
In this issue... 5 Row Houses Go in Albany
Albany firefighters battled a two-alarm fire that ripped through five row houses. See page 9
Buffalo Ops Go Defensive
Buffalo firefighters responded to a reported structure fire on Kensington Avenue.
See story on page 12
Pelham Garage Fire
Pelham firefighters, along with mutual aid from surrounding towns, responded to a structure fire on Lincoln Avenue. See story on page 17
2 Dead, 7 Injured in GCP MVA
Two people were killed and at least seven others were injured in a multi-vehicle accident on the Grand Central Parkway. See story on page 19
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
Amsterdam City Fire
Amsterdam City firefighters responded to a report of a structure fire on Garden Street. Upon arrival, they found flames visible and called second and third alarms. See story on page 21
Marking the Passing of Marsi
Honors were paid to Marsi, 15, one of the original four NYS Search and Rescue Dogs as she crossed over the rainbow bridge.
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PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 4 Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 21 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 18 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, September 2017
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
9/11
Never Forget Every year, I sit back and think of the staggering statistics that have changed the lives of so many responders and innocent civilians who had the misfortune of being murdered in the attacks on the United States of America on September 11, 2001. For those of you who lived, worked, responded, were curious and visited the site, the smell cannot be forgotten. Some facts: 91,000 liters of jet fuel and 1,200,000 tons of building materials burned at 1000 degrees for a very long time. There were 23,000 fluorescent light bulbs in the WTC, all containing small amounts of known carcinogens, which vaporized. Then there were some 75,000 telephones in the buildings, and 19,000 miles of cable — think PCBs. The cables and 300 main frame computers were pulverized adding toxic gases that many inhaled. Visit “Let’s Roll Forum” for some incredible facts about the WTC. This year, I lost a few close friends to 9/11 related cancers. I can only say they set the example of being true American heroes by continuing to make everyone aware that the
diseases related to the attack on this country continue to have a horrible impact on us. I thank Firefighter Jimmy Lanza of Ladder 43 and Firefighter Ray Pfeifer for all they did to make sure our government does not walk away from a situation that is predicted to continue to get worse. Doctors have now linked many respiratory illnesses and 68 cancers to the WTC toxic dust. Last September, the FDNY added 17 names to a list of those who have died of 9/11-related illness, bringing the total to 127. I am sure this list will grow in 2017. In the true tradition of the FDNY, the NYPD and the PAPD, they have not forgotten their own, who continue to succumb to 9/11 related illnesses. We must never forget all of our first responders, emergency responders, recovery and cleanup workers, and volunteers who helped in the aftermath of the attacks on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and the crash site near Shanksville, Pennsylvania. Never forget the survivors who lived, worked or went to school near the World Trade
Center on September 11 or in the subsequent months. Records show that the total number of all 9/11 responders, including firefighters, who have been diagnosed with WTC-linked cancers now exceeds 5,100. I read that Dr. Raja Flores, Chief of Thoracic Surgery at Mount Sinai Medical Center, one of seven sites affiliated with the WTC Health Program, insists that researchers are just scratching the surface with these findings. Dr Flores reminds us that there's no doubt that we will see a sharp increase in 9/11-related cancers over the next 30 years. Sadly, the real mass of 9/11-related cancer deaths is probably yet to come. Remember, never forget. Stay vigilant and continue to monitor the aftermath of 9/11. ... Dennis
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Fire News, September 2017, Page 5
Chappaqua Third Alarm Mansion Fire
Chappaqua emergency services started receiving calls for a struc- fighting the fire; firefighters had to use ATVs to reach the fire scene. ture fire on Leroy Road. On arrival, crews saw heavy smoke com- The roof composition — Spanish tiles — also made firefighting difing from the roof, with fire through the roof. Second and third ficult. The fire’s cause was determined to be electrical. -Fire News photos by PuckStopperPhotography.com alarms were called. A long access road to the house complicated
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Cover Story
Collapse at Clifton Park Blaze
Firefighters battled a multiple alarm fire on State Route 9 in the Saratoga County town of Clifton Park after flames destroyed the Bow Wow Park dog facility. A huge column of heavy smoke could be seen for miles as first arriving apparatus arrived, going into defensive operations after the roof caved in. One firefighter was treated for heat exhaustion as the temperature hovered around 80 degrees. The building, that used to be Giffy’s BBQ, was being renovated into a dog day care facility and was still under construction. The cause was under investigation. -Fire News photos by Peter Barber
Page 8, Fire News, September 2017
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Amsterdam A/C Fire
2 Cops Make Good Save in Queens
On July 21, 2017, Amsterdam Fire received a report of a possible structure fire on Guy Park Avenue. Engine 2, Truck 1 and Rescue 1 responded. Upon arrival, office workers were evacuated, and units found an office filling with smoke, but no flames visible. After further investigation, firefighters traced the smoke to a faulty air conditioning unit. - Fire News photo by MarkPerfettiPhotography.com
Two NYPD officers who were flagged down by neighbors saved a grandmother and her two-year-old grandson from a house fire in South Ozone Park in Queens on July 20, 2017. Police officers John Maderik and Brian Coffey from the 106th Precinct were on routine patrol when they entered the burning house on 112th Street and located the elderly woman and grandson in an upstairs apartment. The officers lead the two to safety as FDNY firefighters arrived to battle the blaze. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhoto.com
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Fire News, September 2017, Page 9
5 Row Houses Go in Albany
On July 17, 2017, Albany firefighters battled a two-alarm fire that tain the spread of the closely adjoining wood structures. Sixteen ripped through five row houses in the 400 block of Madison Avenue. people were left homeless and two firefighters suffered minor - Fire News photo by Peter Barber Ladder pipes were set up in front and behind the structures to con- injuries.
Page 10, Fire News, September 2017
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Exterior Ops at Albany Blaze
On July 6, 2017, Albany police and fire departments received several calls for heavy black smoke in the area of an old Howard Johnson Motor Lodge on Route 9W, just south of exit 23 of the New York State Thruway. Upon arrival, fire was showing throughout the front of the building, and a second alarm was requested. Albany Chief Warren Abriel said that the fire may have started in one of the bedrooms on the second floor. Abriel held operations to exterior only. During the course of the fire, the roof collapsed. - Fire News photos by Peter Barber and Tom Heffernan
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Buffalo Ops Go Defensive
So. Ozone Park Blaze
On May 28, 2017, Buffalo firefighters responded to a reported structure fire on Kensington Avenue. The first arriving unit (F-20) reported smoke showing from the 4 side, with heavy fire on the first floor. As the fire progressed into the attic, crews went defensive. An additional truck was requested as a FAST and two extra engines were requested for relief. - Fire News photo by Donald Kilianski
A second alarm was struck for a fire in the cockloft of a twostory, attached, private dwelling on 112th Street in the South Ozone Park section of Queens on July 21, 2017. Units were on the same block the day before for an all-hands blaze. The cockloft nozzle was deployed during the operation and the blaze was brought under control. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
Buffalo House Fire
On May 5, 2017, Buffalo firefighters were called to a fire in an occupied home on Johnson Street. Upon arrival, Engine 3 encountered fire showing on the 4 side and stretched a line. - Fire News photo by Donald Kilianski
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Schenectady Garage Fire
Quick Work in Amsterdam
On July 7, 2017, Schenectady firefighters battle a fully involved garage fire behind a Central Parkway address. Multiple calls flooded the 911 center as the fire could be seen for miles. A car next to the structure was a total loss. The cause was under investigation. - Fire News photo by Peter Barber
Amsterdam firefighters responded to a report of a structure fire on Academy Street on the night July 23, 2017. Engine 2, Truck 1 and Rescue 1 responded with six firefighters. They were met by heavy smoke and flames visible from the rear of the structure. Command called for second and third alarms. Crews stretched a handline to the rear, and knocked down the fire within minutes. -Fire News photo by MarkPerfettiPhotography.com
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Fatality at Yonkers House Fire
On May 18, 2017, Yonkers firefighters responded to William Street CPR was started immediately. This was the second fire in the city at for a house fire. Upon arrival, units found an electrical fire in the the time. New Rochelle firefighters were first on the scene and basement with reports of a person possibly trapped inside. The vic- Eastchester firefighters found and removed the victim. - Fire News photos by PuckStopperPhotography.com tim was pulled out of the back of the home in critical condition and
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11 FFs Injured in Queens
On May 11, 2017, FDNY Fire and EMS units responded to reports of a fire at an apartment building on 94th Street in Queens. On arrival, firefighters found heavy fire out of an apartment on the top floor extending into the cockloft of the building. The fire burned with heavy fire running throughout the entire cockloft of the A
wing. Two firefighters suffered serious non-life threatening injuries while nine other firefighters suffered minor injuries. The fire seriously damaged 75 of the 112 units in the building. The fire was started when a contractor and crew misused a torch while repairing the roof. - Fire News photos by PuckStopperPhotography.com
Page 16, Fire News, September 2017
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4 Families Displaced in Poughkeepsie Blaze
City of Poughkeepsie firefighters, assisted by Arlington, Fairview and Mobile Life Paramedics, made quick work of a structure fire on Mansion Street on June 4, 2017. Four families were displaced as a result of the fire and were rendered assistance by the Red Cross. - Fire News photos by Bill Johnson
Lightning Blamed for Poughkeepsie Fire
City of Poughkeepsie firefighters, assisted by Arlington with their area and displaced the occupants of the residence. Firefighters FAST, along with Mobile Life Paramedics, operated at a structure worked hard in the heavy rain to bring the fire under control. - Fire News photos by Bill Johnson fire on Lynbrook Road on June 19, 2017. The fire, which was reportedly started by a lightning strike, heavily damaged the attic
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Fire News, September 2017, Page 17
Quick Thinking
Pelham Garage Fire
Niskayuna Fire District 1 Firefighter/Paramedic Bob Wessels used a garden hose to cool off a burning propane tank on the deck of a home on Clute Crest Drive. Firefighters kept the tank cool as it burned itself out. There was no damage to the house. - Fire News photo by Peter Barber
On June 15, 2017, Pelham firefighters, along with automatic mutual aid from surrounding towns, responded to a reported structure fire on Lincoln Avenue. Upon arrival, crews found a fully involved shed fire. Smoke from the fire could be seen from over a mile away. Firefighters stretched lines and made a quick knockdown saving surrounding exposures from any damage. - Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com
Page 18, Fire News, September 2017
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FHEXPO17: ENHANCING YOUR EDUCATION Firehouse Expo 2017 offers more workshops than ever before, including 10 pre-conference workshops, a full two days of community risk reduction, and four new exciting hybrid workshops combining intense classroom instruction with high-impact hands-on training. The main conference is also action-packed, including more than 140 educational and marquee sessions featuring high-profile events and some of the most critical topics in the American fire service with the most one-on-one, student-focused instruction of any national conference. The exceptional lineup of educational programs covers a variety of topics that are critical to your day-to-day operations and your long-term growth in the fire service. Tactics-focused sessions are designed to enhance your incident scene skill sets, while strategy- and leadership-focused sessions will help develop your decision-making, personnel management and general fire station or department operations. “Firehouse is excited to be back in Nashville for our second year, and this conference promises to be even more action-packed than last year,” said Firehouse Editor-in-Chief Tim Sendelbach. “Each class is designed and focused on making sure you get the attention you need to learn and apply the skills you learn at Firehouse Expo.”
Pre-Conference Sessions Tuesday, Oct. 17 & Wednesday, Oct. 18 As part of its pre-conference lineup, Firehouse offers a variety of exciting educational sessions, including those focused on WUI command, fire research, leadership, first-due strategic responsibilities, tactical resiliency and more. Also included in the pre-conference programming is Firehouse’s Community Risk Reduction program. Presented in partnership with the National Fire Sprinkler Association (NFSA), this program focuses on improving the firefighters’ work environment, working with code officers to create a safer community and more. Main Conference Sessions Thursday, Oct. 19-Saturday, Oct. 21 Don’t miss Expo sessions focused on forcible entry, rapid-intervention teams, mayday events, survival skills, wind-impacted fires, building live-fire training props, hazmat operations, railroad incidents, fire prevention, diversity issues, PTSD and stress management, initial attack line skills, developing a healthy and fit firehouse culture, tower rescues, social media policies, search and rescue, managing staffing limitations and much more. To learn more and register, visit firehouseexpo.com.
HONORING OUR FALLEN FIREFIGHTERS
Register for the 3rd Annual National Stair Climb for Fallen Firefighters at Belmont Park • Can’t be in New York? Join in the virtual climb! • The event will take place on Sunday, October 1, 2017, at Learn more at www.nationalstairclimb.org Belmont Park. Register in advance at www.nationalstairclimb.org. • Proceeds benefit FDNY Counseling Services Unit (CSU) • Fees: $35 for the Climb. $50 for the Climb and After Party. and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) $50 for Climb Supporters and After Party floors in the Twin Towers. All climbers will receive a t-shirt and On October 1, 2017, join hundreds of other firefighters in New a name badge for the firefighter they are honoring. York to honor the fallen at the 3rd Annual National Stair The stair climb is a family event and we encourage Climb for Fallen Firefighters at Belmont Park. you to bring your spouses, children, family and “The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation perfriends. An After-Climb Party and Races will begin at forms extraordinary work providing resources for the 1130, featuring a BBQ buffet and unlimited draft beer families of fallen heroes across the country,” said Fire and soda. There will also be bounce castles, pony Commissioner Daniel A. Nigro. “By climbing steps rides and fun for the entire family. In addition, the each year, every participant not only raises funds to New York Racing Association will raffle two 2018 support the families of FDNY members who made the Belmont Stakes Day reserved seats valued at $200 each, Supreme Sacrifice, they also ensure those we have lost and will assign a minimum of five race names for the FDNY are never forgotten.” to use to honor their fallen. For more information and to register, Gates open and on-site registration begins at 0830. Firefighters will climb the equivalent of 110 stories to symbolize the number of go to www.nationalstairclimb.org.
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.
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Two Injured in Winona
Niskayuna MVA
On July 23, 2017, the Winona Lake Fire Department was called out for an MVA on Route 300. Hydraulic tools were put into to operation to remove the occupants. Two people were taken to the hospital with injuries. - Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick
On July 6, 2017, Niskayuna Fire District 2 firefighters stabilized a vehicle that veered off Troy-Schenectady Road and went over a guard wire and into a ravine. Hydraulic tools had to be used to free the driver, who walked out of the crash on his own. He was taken by Mohawk Ambulance to Albany Medical Center for treatment of minor injuries. - Fire News photo by Peter Barber
Westerlo Semi Rollover
On July 16, 2017, Westerlo Fire Department and Rescue Squad responded to County Route 411 for a semi truck rolled over into trees. Upon arrival, Assistant Chief Tom Diederich found the driver severely entrapped. Diederich immediately requested assistance from Greenville’s heavy rescue as well Life-Net. The prolonged extrication took about 50 minutes. The driver was transported to Albany Medical Center by Life Net with serious injuries. The truck was hauling around 6000 gallons of liquid cow manure at the time of the crash, of which about 3000 gallons spilled. New York State Environmental Conservation was called to deal with the spill. - Fire News photo by Tom Heffernan
2 Dead, 7 Injured in GCP MVA
Two people were killed and at least seven others were injured in a multi-vehicle accident on the Grand Central Parkway in Queens early on July 16, 2017. FDNY units were on the scene near 188th Street where two occupants needed to be extricated from the mangled vehicles. - Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos.com
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Castleton on Hudson Power Plant Smoker
On a 90-degree day on July 19, 2017, firefighters responded to Landing, Schodack Valley, South Schodack, East Greenbush and Castleton Energy, a CoGen power plant, off Route 9J. On arrival, East Schodack were called to the site. Smoke ejectors and portable Car 3 encountered a smoke condition caused by a blown 13200-volt generators were employed inside to vent through tiny windows. - Fire News photos by Martin E. Miller electrical box. All power inside the building was shut down. In an effort to clear the five-story structure, units from Schodack
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Amsterdam City Fire
Amsterdam City firefighters responded to a report of a structure fire on Garden Street on June 25, 2017. Upon arrival, they found flames visible and called second and third alarms. The fire was contained mostly to the first floor, and brought under control in 30 minutes, One firefighter sustained minor injuries and two cats were saved. - Fire News photo by MarkPerfettiPhotography.com
Page 22, Fire News, September 2017
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Lancaster Village
Port Chester Apartment Fire
The Lancaster Village Fire Department was alerted for a structure fire in a commercial building on Central Avenue. Upon arrival, 93 reported a fully involved structure fire. Mutual aid came from Twin District and Village of Depew. The fire was brought under control within 30 minutes. - Fire News photo by Donald Kilianski
Recently, crews responded to Traverse Avenue in Port Chester as dispatch was receiving multiple calls for a fire. Upon arrival firefighters were faced with a well involved apartment fire on one of the upper floors. A fast attack by the first arriving units made sure the fire did not extend to any other units. -Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com
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Coeymans Explosion
On July 14, 2017, Coeymans was dispatched by Albany County for a generator explosion inside a vacant house being refurbished on River Road. Chief Deyo said that mutual aid came from six departments. Upon his arrival he found two workmen who had been hired to install new siding. They reported that one of them was on the second floor and the other on the first floor near the explosion. Neither was injured. Flames spread through the structure and through the roof. - Fire News photo by Martin E. Miller
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Altamont House Saved
On July 16, 2017, a reported fire in a connected garage brought several area departments to the scene. On arrival they found a fully involved two-car garage. The resident, only a short time before, put his rider mower in the garage after mowing the lawn. The Altamont fire station is just down the road and Guilderland was also nearby.With this quick response the house sustained very little fire damage, but the garage was destroyed. - Fire News photo by Martin E. Miller
Page 24, Fire News, September 2017
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Apartment Fire Snuffed Ridge Culver Fire Department, assisted by St. Paul Boulevard, West Webster and Point Pleasant made quick work of an apartment fire on June 24, 2017. - Fire News photos by Chris Imm
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Obituary
NYSAFC Remembers Chief Henry A. Campbell Chief Henry A. Campbell, chairman of the NYSAFC Public Relations and Information Committee, passed away on July 14, 2017. A 37-year veteran of the Mount Vernon Fire Department in Westchester County, Campbell rose through the ranks to serve as chief of operations from 1986 until his retirement in1996. At the time of his passing, he was an active member of the Rhinebeck Fire Department in Dutchess County, serving as safety officer and public information officer. Campbell served as acting fire coordinator/commissioner for the Westchester County Department of Emergency Services from 19992000. He was also the first director of the Westchester County Career Chiefs Academy. Campbell was a member of the New York State Department of Civil Service Fire Advisory Committee, an adjunct instructor at the New York State Academy of Fire Science, an OSHA trainer throughout the Hudson Valley, and a New York State fire instructor for Dutchess County from 1983-1992. He also served on the Westchester County Arson Task Force from 1980-1996, Westchester County Local Emergency Planning Committee from 1987-1996, and Westchester County Fire Advisory Board from 1988-1996. Campbell was the Yonkers Command Post coordinator after the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center and subsequently served as a terrorism training instructor, as well as the emergency management coordinator for the town of Rhinebeck. Campbell was a member of numerous fire service organizations, including the International Association of Fire Chiefs, Westchester County Fire Chiefs Association, Westchester County Career Chiefs Association, Westchester Firefighters Emerald Society, Firemen’s Association of the State of New York, International Association of Fire Fighters Local #107 Mount Vernon, and New York State Police and Fire Retirees Association. He was also an honorary life member of the Pleasant Valley Fire Department. A member of NYSAFC since 1984, Campbell served on the Career Chiefs Committee from 1998-2001. He was then appointed to the newly formed Public Relations and Information Committee in 2002, and served as chairman and the sole member of the committee from 2009 until his passing. Campbell’s contributions to NYSAFC are immeasurable, and his passion for sharing his knowledge and information concerning the emergency services is unparalleled. Many members looked forward to his daily CHIEFHAC e-blasts to bring them up to speed on national and New York State fire service news. Campbell also contributed “CHIEFHAC’s Corner” each month in The NYSAFC Bugle e-newsletter and he frequently wrote feature articles for Size Up magazine. Henry will be fondly remembered for his lively conversations at association meetings and conferences, which were always insightful. For his dedication to the association, Campbell was named the NYSAFC Committee Member of the Year in 2004.
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Mahopac Falls Honors Davey Jean Beska At the July meeting of the Mahopac Falls Fire Department, Davey Jean Beska was sworn in as a Honorary Member. With only one other honorary member on the rolls, Davey’s track record with the Falls Fire Department is legendary. Her husband, Dick, joined in the early 60s and with that came the entire family. The ladies, mom and daughters joined the Ladies Auxiliary as dad and sons went to the fire calls, a true firehouse family. All phases of department life were enriched by the Beska family’s willingness to help. To Davey, Falls was ‘her fire department’ and in her heart, it was. As time went by, a need for dispatchers arose. Originally, fire phones were located in certain members’ homes, and they would answer the call, dispatch the message, blow the siren and start the phone chain to the rest of the members. In the 70s, Davey became one of the three people who would answer the emergency line. With Julie Reitz and Edie Swarm, Davey would take turns being on duty, sometimes for days at a time. The Mahopac Falls Fire Department acknowledges and thanks Davey for a lifetime of service and dedication to the Mahopac Falls community and has the privilege to, officially, call her “One of Our Own.” Davey Beska (left) being sworn in by Chief Jeff Boyle. - Fire News photo by Jack Casey
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Middle Hope Wetdown
On July 15, 2017, Middle Hope Fire Department held a wetdown for their new engine and brush truck. Orange Lake, Winona Lake, Slate Hill, Highland, Good Will, Coldenham and Vails Gate attended among others. (Above): Chief Sott Corkery, his wife Dnna and his daughter Allision. - Fire News photo by Vinnie Dominick
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Fire News, September 2017, Page 27
Welcome to NYSAFC’s New Membership Portal The New York State Association of Fire Chiefs is excited to launch a new database and membership management system. For more than a year, NYSAFC has been working to implement new technology that will benefit members and enhance their communication with association staff, officers, and representatives. In November 2016, the association launched a new and improved website to provide easier access to information about programs, events, and news impacting fire chiefs and the fire service of New York state. Today, August 1, 2017, we take step two in this process. This e-mail is one of the many improvements to our new system. We are now able to e-mail our members directly to provide important information and updates regarding NYSAFC activities, including training, legislative updates, and many more. But be assured that we will not inundate you with e-mails. Log in to the member portal via our website at www.nysfirechiefs.com so you can access your membership record and easily update your information. At the top of the website, you will see a button that allows you to log in. You must have an e-mail address in order to log in to the site. The first time you log in, you will be e-mailed a username and temporary password. Your user name is your last name and member ID number. Once you log in with your temporary password, you will be prompted to create a new password. Having a log in and password will allow NYSAFC to provide more exclusive information for members only,
thus increasing the value of your membership. If you are not currently a member or your membership has lapsed, you may join the association by simply going to the website www.nysfirechiefs.com and clicking on the Join button at the top of the site. You have obviously seen benefit in the association from your participation in our programs and I hope that you will consider becoming a member.
Among the many other changes that our members will notice is the ability to: • Register and pay for some training and events online (not the 112th Annual Conference and FIRE 2018 Expo). • Receive electronic invoices and pay your annual dues electronically (we will continue to mail invoices to those members who chose not pay electronically).
• Receive legislative and government affairs updates. • View members-only information. • Receive confirmation e-mails each time you complete an online action or payment. • Access your receipts for all online transactions. • Access your invoices for online transactions. We know that this is a significant change from our current system, so to meet your needs, we have developed several ways to help you: • You may go to the bottom of our website and click on FAQs. This will give you details on how to register for access to the database and other information. • As always, you can call our office at 518477-2631 or 800-676-FIRE and ask for assistance. Please ask for Membership Coordinator Brian Forte (Brian works in the mornings only). • You can also e-mail Brian at bforte@nysfirechiefs.com. While NYSAFC is moving to more electronic communications, those who wish to receive their dues and other invoices by mail will still be able to do so. We are confident that this new system will allow NYSAFC to provide you more information in a timely manner and reduce association mailing and printing costs in the long run. We are sure there will be some glitches and it will take time to adjust, but in the end, our membership will be better served.
Page 28, Fire News, September 2017
New Scotland Rock Fall Injures One
On July 2, 2017, a woman on the Indian Ladder Trail in Thacher Park was injured by falling rocks. Preliminary reports indicated that a piece of a rock ledge broke away striking the woman in the head, seriously injuring her. She was transported to Albany Medical Center Hospital. The New Salem Fire Department was assisted by departments from Berne and East Berne, as well as Albany County paramedics, New York State Police, and New York State Park Police. - Fire News photo by Tom Heffernan
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Amsterdam Fire Department Lieutenant Jeff Urbanczyk and Firefighter Kenny Brooks at recent pump training. - Fire News photo by MarkPerfettiPhotography.com
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Fire News, September 2017, Page 29
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Amsterdam Firefighter Jeff Hazzard. - Fire News photo by MarkPerfettiPhotography.com
Amsterdam Firefighter Adam Wall. - Fire News photo by MarkPerfettiPhotography.com
Page 30, Fire News, September 2017
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Mamaroneck Firefighters Parade
Fire Departments from around Westchester County, New York; Fairfield County, Connecticut; and even as far as New Jersey gathered in Mamaroneck for Mamaroneck Firefighters Parade. Thousands of people lined Mamaroneck Avenue as fire trucks drove by lights flashing and horns honking. - Fire News photos by PuckStopperPhotography.com
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Amsterdam Firefighter Mike Welch. - Fire News photo by MarkPerfettiPhotography.com
Amsterdam Firefighter Rob Shang. - Fire News photo by MarkPerfettiPhotography.com
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Block Party in Brooklyn Getting to know your community and firefighters, while having fun with Engine 290 and Ladder 103 in Brooklyn. - Fire News photos by Lloyd Mitchell
Fire News, September 2017, Page 31
Page 32, Fire News, September 2017
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Gary Wuethrich, Bill Pratt Pass In June, the Southwestern Association of Volunteer Firemen (SAVS) lost two of their pastPresidents. On June 14, 2017, Gary Wuethrich, and on June 28, 2017, Bill Pratt passed away. Gary Wuethrich’s greatest passion was the volunteer fire service. He was a life member and pastPresident of the Kinney Hose Company, Westons Mills, where he also held many offices. In addition, he was a member or honorary member of many other departments including town of Olean, Hinsdale, Port Allegany, Shinglehouse, Portville, Allegany, Limestone, Knapp Creek and Lyndon. He also was past-President of the Western New York Volunteer Firefighter’s Association, and was a member of the NYS Fire Police. Gary also served terms of office within the SAVF and many other organizations and received numerous honors and recognitions throughout the years. He was a NYS Fire Instructor and served as District 4 Coordinator. Bill Pratt was a member of the Otto Fire Company for 57 years, serving as Chief for 20 years. He was past-President of Cattaraugus County Fireman’s Association and SAVF, past-Chairman of the Cattaraugus County fire advisory board, member of the Cattaraugus County Fire Chiefs, and Fire Police associations, Western New York NY Fireman’s Association and the Fire Association of the State of New York. - Fire News photos by Jim Lepard
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Fire News, September 2017, Page 33
Red Knights Six Lakes Ride
NYS VFPA Awards
On June 7, 2017, the Red Knights Chapter 3 held its 6th Annual Ride during Americaid in Lake George. The annual event gathers firefighters and riders from Canada, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Vermont, Pennsylvania, as well as various chapters in New York. This year over 120 riders and 94 bikes took part in the Six Lakes Ride. While on the ride, the entourage stopped at the Hague Market in Hague. The owner of the quaint store had been brutally beaten and shot multiple times. While he was still recovering, the Red Knights wanted to show their support for him, as he had previously done for them. All 120 riders filtered through the store picking up drinks, snacks and ice cream while visiting with the owner and wishing him well. - Fire News photo by Lori Washburn
At the annual convention of the Volunteer Fire Police Association of the State of New York, held at the Crown Plaza in Lake Placid on May 11 through 14, 2017, President Frank Guarino of New Hyde Park (left) presented Lt. Michael McCloud with the 2016 NYS Fire Police Officer of the Year Award. McCloud, of the Boston Fire Company (Erie County), was honored for a rescue on Lake Erie of a man overboard. Both major awards went to Erie County fire police officers, as Paul Lawton of the North Collins Fire Department, received the Woodman Award, recognizing his long and distinguished service to the fire police. - Fire News photo submitted by Ray Worth, Boston FC
Page 34, Fire News, September 2017
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Marking the Passing of Marsi
New York State fire services and local departments paid honors to Marsi, one of the original four NYS Search and Rescue Dogs as she crossed over the rainbow bridge. Marsi, 15, was a dedicated and commendable search and rescue dog for over 10 years. Marsi’s handler was Jason Geary (above). The fire services units and K-9 units gathered to show one of their own respect for her dedicated duty to the fire service. - Fire News photos by Tom Heffernan and Lori Washburn