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The Merrick Fire Department honored about students from Chatterton, Birch and Lakeside schools on Sunday for participating in the community’s Hydrant Heroes initiative — a program that encouraged children to clear snow from fire hydrants near their homes.
Merrick students honored for clearing hydrants during the harsh winter By HERNESTo GAlDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com
After a winter marked by heavy snowstorms and a rise in house fires across the South Shore, dozens of Merrick elementary school students were recognized for stepping up in a way that made a real difference for first responders. The Merrick Fire Department honored about 40 students from Chatterton, Birch and Lakeside schools on Sunday for participating in the community’s Hydrant Heroes initiative — a program that encouraged children to clear snow from fire hydrants near their homes to ensure firefighters quick access during emergencies. Fire officials said the snow-shoveling
effort came at a critical time, because buried hydrants can significantly delay firefighting operations. “When there’s an emergency, it really comes down to seconds,” Ronald Luparello, a longtime member of Empire Hose Company 3 and the department’s spokesman, said. “We need that hydrant in operation as fast as possible, because that’s our continuous flow of water. If we run out of tank water and don’t have that hydrant ready, you’re putting firefighters in serious jeopardy.” Luparello, who has been with the department since 1989 and previously served as chief, said the impact of the students’ efforts was noticeable almost immediately. “You could drive down the blocks after a ConTinueD on page 12
There’s a lot to love about Merrick — and the people who call it home know that sense of community runs deep. Whether it’s a walk or bike ride along the Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve, a day at Merrick Road Park, or time spent enjoying the South Shore’s nearby waterfront, Merrick offers plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors. Throughout the year, the community comes together for neighborhood traditions, school events, seasonal celebrations and local gatherings that make this a special place to live. Merrick is also known for its strong schools and engaged families. From the Merrick and North Merrick school districts to the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District, residents take pride in student achievement across academics, athletics and the arts. The Merrick Herald is your hometown newspaper. We cover the stories that matter because we’re part of this community too — from major developments and local government to the students,
volunteers, businesses and neighbors making a difference every day. This week’s Merrick Herald is being delivered to homes throughout the area and includes our annual community guide — a helpful resource featuring local businesses, organizations, schools and events that help shape life in Merrick. If you’re not yet a subscriber, we hope this issue gives you a sense of what local journalism brings to a community. Each week, in print and online, we deliver original reporting you won’t find anywhere else — coverage rooted right here in Merrick. To support local reporting in Merrick, subscribe today at LIHerald.com/ subscribe or call (516) 569-4000, ext. 7. You can also make a onetime or recurring contribution at LIHerald.com/donate. If you’re already a subscriber, thank you for supporting local journalism. And if you’re reading us for the first time — welcome. We’re glad you’re here. Hernesto Galdamez, Editor