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The #1 Publication for the Long Island Fire ServiceFD RANT NEWS
EAST FARMINGDALE Battles Building FirePage 6
Volume 4 Edition 5 May 2015
ROOSEVELT House Fire with Fatality Page 21
JERICHOMultiple Units Destroyed Page 22
SOUTHOLD Historic Church Devastated Page 10
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FD RANT NEWSThe #1 Publication for the Long Island Fire Service
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Welcome
The time has finally come. After over 3 years of delivering our subscribers the MOST and the BEST coverage in our digital edition, the FD Rant News has arrived in print format. This is a direct result from the feedback we have received from our loyal readers. Just like when we launched our 1st ever edition on February 1, 2012, many people were unaware that there was a new form of media to bring them fire and emergency scene coverage from across Long Island. Over the years our publication grew from a …”cute little newsletter…” with a half dozen ‘unknown’ correspondents into an industry leader in covering the Long Island Fire Service. Now, those very correspondents are seasoned veterans who are well respected for the work they perform. We have changed the industry because we have been committed to improving our content and deliver it in a form and style that our readers want to see. Our production team has grown as well. Through the years as our content increased, new members joined our crew. I am proud to say that today they are all still with us and we have even added another. We would like to welcome Jodi May as our new Copy Editor on the digital side of the production. Building a business is not an easy task; especially in this economic climate but, everyone who has been involved in the production of the FD Rant News has believed in the potential that has always existed and have committed themselves to make our publication better each and every month. I am proud to be part of such a wonderful hard working group of people. I have learned more from them than I have been able to teach them and for that I am a better person today.
As you could probably tell from our cover page, our debut is loaded with some of the biggest stories that have occurred over the past month or so in both Suffolk AND Nassau Counties. That is not by accident. In addition to the best correspondents in the business, we have also seen a huge spike in the amount of user submitted material in both the digital and the print editions. Why is that? Well, frankly, it’s because we are better than the others in our business.
As you read our print edition, please be sure to take advantage of the features we have included for you to make your experience even better. Use your smartphone to scan the QR Codes that are embedded into the stories so that you may see even more of the correspondents’ photos from a particular incident. Also, we make it easier for you to contact us by scanning those codes to open your mail browser. Also, our newly designed marketing and advertising techniques use state-of-the-art strategies to get our vendors optimum exposure for their goods and services.
In closing, I would like to thank all of our loyal subscribers and I would also like to welcome our new subscribers to the FD Rant News PRINT edition. We hope you enjoy our publication as much as we enjoy delivering it to you.
Ex-Chief Jeff DiLavore Publisher
All news articles, photographs, images, illustrations, audio clips, video clips, trademarks, designs, graphics, logos, icons, images, user interfaces, visual interfaces, advertisements and computer code (“Content”) contained in FD Rant News is either owned or used under license by Sophan Publishing, LLC with ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. The Content contained in this publication is protected by United States Copyright Law and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, displayed, published or broadcast without prior permission of Sophan Publishing, LLC or the owner of that Content. Companies advertising in the FD Rant News agree to hold harmless Sophan Publishing, LLC beyond cost of advertising space for errors. FD Rant News is a print and digital publication produced monthly by Sophan Publishing, LLC, Northport, N.Y. 11768.
For Advertising and Subscription Information call 516.852.4965Email Address: [email protected]
Website: www.FDRantNews.com
FD Rant News
Jeff DiLavore Editor/PublisherBrian Welliver Associate Editor
Dave Cook Associate Editor Holly Luscher Graphic Editor
Jodi May Copy Editor
Andrew CarpenterKen BradburyKevin BurkeChris Colletti Kevin Conn
Jeff DiLavoreRobert DeNaro
Eric DevineLauren ChenaultRobert Garofalo
Fred KopfPaul Krussmann
Tom LambuiKevin MadiganDevin Malloy
Ralph MonielloBrian Olsen
Dominic OrlandoEvan Rolla
Chris Sabella
Ron SchankinChris Seidensticker
Matt ThomasKim VersheckJohn Walthers
Mike CapozielloTom Cronogue
Phil Lichtenberger Jim McNamara
Don Prince
Cover Photo by Chris Colletti
The #1 Publication for the Long Island Fire Service
Contributing AuthorsCorrespondents
ROOSEVELT
House Fire With Fatality
Photo by Kevin Madigan
SOUTHOLD
Historic Church Devastated
Photo by Katherine Drum
JERICHO
Multiple Units Destroyed
Photo by Kevin Madigan
FD RANT NEWS
Faces of the Fire Service
Talkin’ Fire Stuff by Mike Capoziello
Centerfold
Apparatus of the Fire Service
Nassau County Awards Ceremony
The Back of the Bus by Tom Cronogue
About the Authors
4-5 & 54
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28-29
30-31
46-47
56-57
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FACES OF THE FIRE SERVICE
PHOTO BY CHRIS COLLETTI
Members of Bohemia operate on the roof a commercial structure fire
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Members of Farmingdale Fire Department SQ924 after a recent structure fire in Jericho
Members of Westhampton after a recent house fire
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Members of Yaphank on the scene of a recent MVA with overturn
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Copiague Firefighter operating on scene of a vehicle fire on March 20th
Members of East Rockaway wrap up after a recent fire in Oceanside
Selden 30+ year Firefighter Vincent Ammaratti at a recent MVA
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Brookhaven members on the scene of a recent car vs. pole MVA
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EAST FARMINGDALEAutomatic Alarm Turns Into Work
Story and Photos by Chris Colletti – LNBN Photos
On March 17, 2015, at approximately 10:30PM, the East Farmingdale Fire Company was requested to A&S Coat and Apron Supply located at 124 Marine Street for an automatic fire alarm. East Farmingdale Fire Company Assistant Chief Matt Joseph [1-5-31], Assistant Joe Iuzzini [1-5-32] and Assistant Chief Duane Welliver [1-5-33] arrived on scene and were met with smoke showing. They quickly upgraded the call to a general alarm. Engines 1-5-2 and 1-5-6, along with Ladder 1-5-15, responded to the scene. A fence lock needed to be broken and a side door was forced to gain entry to the building. Smoke began pushing from the garage and door. Firefighters secured a hydrant and stretched a hand line into the building, making an aggressive attack to try to knock down the fire. A working general alarm was then activated, and mutual aid was requested
from the North Amityville Fire Company’s RIT team as well as an ambulance. South Farmingdale Fire Department was also called for their RIT team and they went to work. Farmingdale Fire Department sent a truck, and additional engines were dispatched from the North Lindenhurst Fire Department and the West Babylon Fire Department. Due to strong winds, fire conditions became worse and the decision was made to halt interior operations. Manpower was assembled for a “surround and drown.” As the fire load went through the roof, numerous hand lines were placed into operation along with three ladders flowing water from above. Firefighters were also in position to stop the fire from spreading to an adjacent building. Two firefighters were transported to the hospital with undisclosed injuries.
Click here for More Photos of East Farmingdale Fire
Company’s Working Fire
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COPIAGUEFully Involved Vehicle
Story and Photos by Chris Colletti – LNBN Photos
On the morning of March 20th, around 10:30am, the Copiague Fire Department received a call for a reported vehiclefire in front of 114 East Clearwater Road. Reports from Suffolk County PD on scene confirmed a fully involved auto. Chief Dan Campion [1-3-30] and Assistant Chief Dominick Nuzzi [1-3-33] arrived on scene quickly and were advised that a child was removed before fire engulfed the vehicle. The child was uninjured. Upon arrival of Engine 1-3-5 and Engine 1-3-9, firefighters stretched a 1¾’’ hand line to quickly knock down the fire. A second hand line was stretched as a precautionary measure. All units operating on scene took up within 45 minutes of the alarm.
Copiague Vehicle Fire
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On Friday March 21, 2015, the Westhampton Beach Fire Department was activated for a reported structure fire at 10 Jennifers Path near Deborah Drive in Quiogue. The initial call was for a vehicle fire in close proximity to the house. Assistant Chief Bill Dalton [7-8-32] arrived on scene and confirmed an involved vehicle with extension to the home. Engine 7-8-1 arrived and stretched a hand line. Firefighters performed a search of the home, and as additional manpower arrived, a second hand line was deployed. Crews utilized a thermal imaging camera to check for further extension. Assistant Chief Halsey Stevens [7-8-33] also directed operations on scene. Both Quogue and Eastport sent an engine to the location, and Westhampton War Memorial Ambulance sent an EMS crew. East Quogue had an engine standby for the duration of the alarm. The Southampton Fire Marshal was notified for an investigation.
WEST HAMPTON BEACHCar Fire Leads To House Fire
Story and Photos by Kevin Raynor – Westhampton FD
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On Saturday night March 14th, the Southold Fire Department was dispatched to a report of smoke coming from the building at 2331 hours. First officer on scene was 2nd Assistant Chief Craig Goldsmith [8-4-32] and called for a 13/35 (working fire). Mutual aid from Mattituck, Cutchogue, Greenport, East Marion, Orient and Shelter Island Fire Departments responded either to the scene or to standby during the alarm. An excavator was called in to assist with the overhaul and salvage after the fire was knocked down during which time the church bell was located and returned to the church’s pastor.
SOUTHOLDHistoric Church Devastated Story by Chief Peggy Killian Photos by Katherine Drum
Author’s Note: First Universalist Church donated a bell to the Southold Fire Department in 1889 which has since been mounted on a rock alongside our firehouse. At a ceremony on April 6, 1963 the bell was put in service to notify the members of the department that they had an alarm. I would like to thank our neighboring departments for their help. I especially want to thank the members of Southold Fire Department for doing an outstanding job– Peggy [8-4-30]
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DIX HILLSBusy Year Continues Story and Photo by Ken BradburyAdditional Photos by Chris Seidensticker
On Saturday, April 4th the Dix Hills Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 12 Kenmore Street. Units were advised of reported heavy fire and a possible victim within. Chief Robert Fling [2-8-30] requested that mutual aid plans be initiated and called for the Cyanide Kit from East Northport Fire Department. The first engine crew on scene advanced two lines, located and removed the victim from the back bedroom. Life support operations were performed, as the victim was in cardiac arrest, and he was transported to Good Samaritan Hospital. Unfortunately two pets were lost in the blaze. 70 firefighters needed 45 minutes to bring the fire under control and the Suffolk County PD Arson Squad was notified. Assistance was provided by the Deer Park and Melville Departments, as well as Greenlawn, Huntington Manor, and North Babylon. EMS was provided by Wyandanch and Brentwood Volunteer Ambulance Corps. One firefighter suffered a hand laceration.
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Some history stuff for ‘ya. I like to mix it up from time to time. After a 28 year hiatus, the Gamewell fire alarm box is back in Elmont. Well, sort of. They are no longer standing guard on the street corners of the district, but have been installed on the departments 7 firehouses and facilities (photo 1). The massive 289 box system (largest on Long Island) was removed in 1986 in favor of a radio controlled box system by King-Fisher. The 70 ugly Yellow boxes were only installed on main streets and in target buildings. They were put on most of the firehouses as well.
The tired and faded old King-Fisher boxes remained on the firehouses after the last of the street boxes were removed in 2010. When it came time to replace the firehouse boxes, the District made the decision to replace them with brand new Gamewell boxes. Although not a telegraph box when pulled the signal will go to an alarm company which will call Nassau County Fire communications for dispatch.
A few historical notes on the old Gamewell system. When the then 5 separate Elmont fire companies formed the Elmont Fire Department and Fire District on August 20th 1928, one of the priorities of the newly elected fire commissioners was to install a “modern” fire alarm system for the district. On May 3rd 1929 a Gamewell representative surveyed the district and recommended 44 boxes for the coverage area. Belmont Race Track was contacted for installation of boxes as well but declined at the time. The system went into service February 1931 with the first alarm received on February 5th 1931. Box 343 Plainfield Ave and Chelsea Street came in at 18:25. This was a false alarm. Back in 1931, the fancy red boxes must have been a large curiosity and an attraction to the public; especially the children. On February 23rd the department played its first “cat and mouse” game responding to 9 false alarm box calls in 6 hours. The suspected alarm puller, or pullers, was never caught. The first actual box received for a fire was on February 10th at 20:10 for a small fire on School Street.
The Elmont area was mostly farmlands back in the 30’s and as the community was being developed the need for more alarm boxes also increased. In 1940 there were 58 boxes, 1944-72 boxes, 1958-240 boxes, 1976-285 boxes. All connected to an audible alarm system of one Diaphone horn and sixteen - 2 ½ and 1 horse power federal sirens.
An interesting home alert system was created by the Elmont Fire Alarm Bureau. The system called the “Oscolarm” was essentially a speaker box that was installed in all the firefighter’s homes. (photo2) The speaker would “beep” out the same box number of the alarm being sounded though the regular transmission line of the alarm system working on a low voltage of 3 volts. The unit had a battery backup in case of power failure. These speaker boxes would remain as a “home alert system” until Plectron units were purchased in the mid 1970’s. There is rumor that the Elmont alarm personnel worked on the Bellerose village alarm system and these units may have been used by Bellerose firefighters as well. Can any Bellerose village members out there confirm this?
The 289 box system, including 37 at Belmont Race Track, was slowly taken out of service (photo3) and, by 1985, there were only 46 boxes left (not including the Belmont boxes which would remain). Belmont Race Track still has small model Gamewell boxes in the barn area (photo 4), however they are radio controlled, switched over during the King-Fisher changeover. These boxes send a signal to Belmont Race Track security “Gate six,” who in turn calls Firecom with the box location. Although the bells and audible alarms are silent a piece of firefighting nostalgia is back in Elmont.
Until next time.. Be Safe and Keep Em’ Rolling!
TALKIN’ FIRE STUFFBy Mike Capoziello
THE LITTLE RED BOX IS BACK IN ELMONT
Mike Capoziello has over 30 years as a member of Hook and Ladder Co. #2 and former Chief [2011-12] of the Elmont Fire Department. He serves as a Department Training Officer, Public Information Officer and Historian. He has 20 plus years’ experience as a houseman and dispatcher in various Nassau County departments and is currently a Supervising dispatcher with Nassau County Firecom, training officer for the Fieldcom unit, member of the Nassau County Fire Service Critical Incident Stress team for the past 11 years and is a liaison for the team to the Nassau County Fire Commission.
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BOHEMIANo Luck at Chinese Restaurant Story and Photos by Ken BradburyAdditional Photos by Robert Garofalo
On Sunday, March 22nd at 2:43pm the Bohemia Fire Department was toned out for a structure fire at a strip mall located on Veterans Highway. Chief Michael Stankunis [3-12-30], Chief Sterling Haynes [3-12-31], and Assistant Chief Brian O’Neill [3-12-32] responded and confirmed fire from the roof of the New Ming Restaurant. The fire originated in the restaurant’s stove exhaust and extended to the surrounding tarred roof area, creating plumes of thick, black smoke. Crews quickly extinguished the blaze with minimal damage to neighboring stores. Mutual aid was called from Bohemia, West Sayville, Sayville, Lakeland Holbrook, and Bayport Fire Departments, as well as Sayville Community Ambulance.
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On Sunday morning, March 22nd, just after 0930 hours, the Kings Park Fire Department responded to the rear of 58 Indian Head Road near Meadow Road West for a reported dumpster fire. Assistant Chief John Gallo, Jr. [4-1-31] arrived at that location and advised Smithtown Communications [4-2-0] of a 20-yard container filled with burning construction debris near Gino’s Restaurant. The crew from Engine 4-1-2 stretched a trash line to attack the smoky fire. Due to the amount of materials burning, Engine 4-1-3 also responded and fed their water to the first due engine. All fire was extinguished and units returned to quarters within 35 minutes.
KINGS PARKMorning Dumpster Fire
Story and Photos by Brian Welliver – FD Rant News
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2015The Holbrook Fire Department responded to a one-
car MVA on Saturday, March 28th, at approximately 1845 hours. The wreck occurred in the westbound express lanes of Sunrise Highway, east of Broadway Avenue. A minivan left the roadway, striking the right shoulder guardrail. The force of the crash caused the minivan to take out approximately 20 feet of guardrail. A section pierced the firewall, with intrusion into the compartment by about one foot, directly in line with the driver’s lower extremities. Under the command of Chief Chris Heinssen [3-15-31], members from Rescue 7 and Engine 6 accessed the vehicle and reached the victim. Members from EMS Unit 16 then tended to the female driver who luckily sustained only minor, non-life threatening injuries. EMS personnel transported the patient to Brookhaven Memorial Hospital.
HOLBROOKMVA Handled
Story and Photos by Rob Garofalo
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Around 12:30am on April 2nd, a Suffolk County Police First Precinct sector car reported a vehicle fire to their dispatch in the parking lot near 744 Montauk Highway. Copiague Fire Department Chief Dean Campion [1-3-30], Assistant Chief Charlie Fitch [1-3-31], and Assistant Chief Dominick Nuzzi [1-3-33] arrived to that location and confirmed a well-involved auto. Within minutes, Copiague Engines 1-3-10 and 1-3-7, accompanied by Heavy Rescue 1-3-3, arrived on scene. Firefighters stretched both a hand line and a trash line, resulting in a quick knock down. All units operating on scene took up and were back in service within 30 minutes of the initial alarm.
COPIAGUEQuick Work By Firefighters
Story and Photos by Chris Colletti – LNBN Photos
Copiague F.D. Vehicle Fire
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At about 10:30am on April 2nd the Brookhaven Fire Department responded to a single-car accident on River Road near Sunset Drive. Chief Thomas Connors [5-3-30] was advised by Suffolk County Police on arrival that nobody was trapped in the vehicle but that a pole was down in the road. Rescue 3 and Engine 9 responded to secure the vehicle and the immediate area. Shirley Ambulance was also called to treat the driver at the scene.
BROOKHAVENCar Versus Pole
Story and Photo by John Walthers – Suffolk Fire Photos
On April 3, 2015, at 1454 hours, the Commack Fire Department was dispatched to an accident in front of 3023 Jericho Turnpike. Units arrived to find a two-car MVA. One driver, who had sustained serious facial injuries, was trapped in their vehicle. Under the command of Fire Chief Andrew Babajko [2-11-30], firefighters used the Jaws of Life to remove the trapped driver. Crews from Rescue 9 and Engine 12 removed the driver’s side door and secured both vehicles involved. The victim was transported by Commack Volunteer Ambulance Corp to a nearby hospital.
COMMACK Afternoon Pin Job Story and Photos By Evan Rolla
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The Deer Park Fire Department was dispatched to an automatic alarm on April 5th shortly after 0800 hours at 105 East Jefryn Boulevard. Chief Bradbury [1-4-30] arrived to a smoke condition coming from a 200 x 400 one-story commercial structure. First due engine 1-4-11 arrived on scene and the crew picked up a hydrant located in front of the building and stretched a hand line. Firefighters from Tower Ladder 10 needed to force entry into the building and set up a ladder to the roof. Mutual aid was called in. Fire was discovered in the 1:4 corner along with 110 gallon drums of hazardous materials. Command requested a Level 1 Hazmat team for decontamination procedures. Firefighters quickly brought the flames under control. No injuries were reported at the scene.
DEER PARKFactory Fire Morphs
Into Hazmat Situation Story and Photos by Evan Rolla
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2015At 0237 hours on Friday, April 3, 2015 the Roosevelt Fire Department
was dispatched to a report of a house fire at 87 Debevoise Avenue off of Charles Street. When units arrived on scene they were met with heavy fire throughout a two-and-a-half story private dwelling. Firefighters attempted an interior move, however, the fire was too far advanced. Several hand lines were put into operation so an aggressive exterior attack could be initiated. Ladder 735 was placed in front of the home to assist in fire suppression efforts. When all visible fire was knocked down overhaul began, and at that time firefighters found one deceased person on the second floor. Three other civilians were injured as a result of the fire; two reportedly jumped from windows in the residence. All survivors’ injuries were believed to be minor. Mutual aid units were provided by Hempstead, South Hempstead, Uniondale, and North Merrick Fire Departments. Standing by for Roosevelt during the operation were apparatus from Freeport, Baldwin, North Merrick, North Bellmore, and Merrick Fire Departments. All units were under the command of Roosevelt Chief Derrick Fennell [7300]. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
ROOSEVELTFully Involved Upon Arrival
Story and Photos by Kevin Madigan - K2M Photography
Click here for More Photos of Roosevelt’s House Fire
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A windy afternoon, Saturday, April 4, 2015, brought the Jericho Fire Department difficult work as they were dispatched to a fire at the Westwood Village Apartments. A Nassau County Emergency Ambulance Bureau technician who called it in stated that fire was through the roof. Early reports of people possibly trapped proved to be false. Westbury Engine 966 and 9602 were in the area at the time taking up from a prior call and quickly responded. Jericho Engine 942 transmitted a second alarm, and additional tower ladders were requested to the scene and put into position immediately. In front of the building were Jericho Ladder 941, Syosset Ladder 582, and Bethpage Ladder 4. Westbury Ladder 962 was placed at the 2:3 corner and Hicksville Ladder 936 on the four side of the building. Once these ladders were up and operating, along with several hand lines, firefighters were able to get control, and within one hour the fire was contained. The initial FAST was Syosset Fire Department, however, they went to work upon arrival. Syosset FAST was replaced by Bethpage Fire Department who also went to work. The FAST then became Ladder 546 from the Locust Valley Fire Department. Additional mutual aid to the scene consisted of units from Glenwood, Farmingdale, Plainview, and East Norwich Fire Departments, with an eventual full-department response from Westbury. Standby units were called for both Jericho and Westbury during the operation. One firefighter was transported to a local hospital with only minor injuries. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
JERICHO Wind Gusts Fan the FlamesStory and Photos by Kevin Madigan - K2M Photography
Click here for More Photos ofJericho’s Appartment Fire
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2015On Saturday, April 4th, the Dix Hills Fire Department
responded to a reported structure fire at 12 Kenmore Street. Units were advised of reported heavy fire and a possible victim within. Chief Robert Fling [2-8-30] requested that mutual aid plans be initiated and called for the Cyanide Kit from East Northport Fire Department. The first engine crew on scene advanced two lines, located and removed the victim from the back bedroom. Life support operations were performed, as the victim was in cardiac arrest, and he was transported to Good Samaritan Hospital. Unfortunately two pets were lost in the blaze. 70 firefighters needed 45 minutes to bring the fire under control and the Suffolk County PD Arson Squad was notified. Assistance was provided by the Deer Park and Melville Departments, as well as Greenlawn, Huntington Manor, and North Babylon. EMS was provided by Wyandanch and Brentwood Volunteer Ambulance Corps. One firefighter suffered a hand laceration.
DIX HILLSBusy Year ContinuesStory and Photos by Ken BradburyAdditional Photos by Kevin Burke
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The Dix Hills Fire Department responded to a motor vehicle accident at 2032 hours on Sunday, April 5th, reported as an overturn and pin in front of 8 Majestic Court in the dead end. Assistant Chief Thomas Napolitano [2-8-31] arrived on scene and came upon a single-car, overturned, but found all occupants had self-extricated. While the crew from Rescue 9 secured the vehicle, EMS crews evaluated two victims and subsequently transported them via ambulance to a local hospital.
DIX HILLS Overturn Wakes Neighbors Story and Photos by Evan Rolla
At 1500 hours on April 9th, the Hauppauge Fire Department was alerted for a disabled motor vehicle at the intersection of Express Drive North and Wheeler Road (Route 111). Assistant Chief Eugene Oliver [3-8-31] was the first to respond, followed by Hauppauge’s Heavy Rescue 3-8-9. When they reached that location what they found was a two-car MVA with a fuel spill. Crews put down speedy dry to contain the fluids while a Central Islip-Hauppauge ambulance crew transported two patients to the hospital. The scene was placed under control in under twenty minutes.
HAUPPAUGESpeedy Dry, Speedy Work
Story and Photos by Devin Malloy
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At 1217 hours on Tuesday, April 7th, 2015 the Freeport Fire Department was dispatched to a report of a vehicle fire at BJ’s Wholesale Club located at 100 Mill Road. When units arrived on scene they confirmed a car fire in the parking lot. Freeport Engines 211 and 216 operated on the scene under the command of Chief Billy Walsh [2100]. One line was stretched and the fire quickly extinguished. No injuries, member or civilian, were sustained.
FREEPORTFreeport Knocks Down Car Fire at BJ’sStory and Photos by Kevin Madigan - K2M Photography
Click here for More Photos of Freeport’s Car Fire
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On Tuesday afternoon, April 7th, a smoky fire in the Vista View Apartments on South Bicycle Path in Farmingville brought work to the Selden Fire Department. Crews encountered a stubborn fire seated in the walls of two units with extension to the roof. Five other area departments were alerted, and firefighters used multiple hand lines to contain the fire and prevent damage to neighboring apartments. Two firefighters were injured on scene, and both were treated for minor injuries and released from a local hospital the same day.
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At around 11:15pm, on April 7th, the Mastic Fire Department was dispatched to “Smokes 4 Less” on the Poospatuck Reservation. Both Chief Rudy Sunderman [5-12-30] and Assistant Chief Jim Mickert [5-12-31] advised that they were responding and upon arrival they found a smoke showing from the building. The first due unit hit the hydrant as the irons team gained entry to the building. Once inside, crews quickly knocked down the fire. Some members covered the cigarettes that were not destroyed with a tarp, as others were hitting hotspots and shoveling debris out the door. The Fire Marshal’s Office and Arson Squad were on scene to investigate the cause of the blaze.
MASTIC Reservation Fire
Story and Photos by John Walthers – Suffolk Fire Photos
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Westhampton Beach, East Moriches, and Riverhead’s ladder trucks mop up after a massive condo fire.
WESTHAMPTON BEACH Photo By John Walthers
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Westhampton Beach, East Moriches, and Riverhead’s ladder trucks mop up after a massive condo fire.
WESTHAMPTON BEACH Photo By John Walthers
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APPARATUS OF THE FIRE SERVICE
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Kings Park Engine 4-1-2 operates on the scene of a recent dumpster fire
Jericho Engine 943 operates at a recent working fire Patchogue Engine 5-19-2 operates on the scene of a working fire
Roosevelt Ladder 735 operates a recent fatal residential fire
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APPARATUS OF THE FIRE SERVICE
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Eastport Engine 5-8-3 operating at a mutual aid to Westhampton for a working fire
Flanders Engine 2 on the scene of a recent fire in Westhampton
Levittown Heavy Rescue 624 operates on the scene of a recent MVA
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Just after 1200 hours on April 7th the Medford Fire Department was activated for a reported heavy rescue on Granny Road. The male driver lost control of his vehicle and struck two telephone poles, becoming trapped within the car. Crews used hydraulic tools to extricate the victim and he was transported to a local trauma center.
MEDFORD Heavy Rescue
Story and Photos by Chris Sabella
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On April 10th, around 5:15am, Suffolk County PD received multiple calls for a report of a car fire at Lincoln Avenue and Van Buren Street in East Farmingdale. The East Farmingdale Fire Company was alerted and Engine 1-5-1 responded. Once on scene they discovered a fully-involved vehicle, and firefighters placed a 1¾’’ hand line into operation to quickly knock down the fire. All units operating on scene were up within 30 minutes of the alarm.
EAST FARMINGDALEWake Up Call
Story and Photos by Chris Colletti
East Farmingdale Fire Company Vehicle Fire
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On Thursday, April 9th, Companies 2, 3, and 5 of the Manhasset-Lakeville Fire Department, and the Ambulance Unit, were dispatched to the intersection of Northern Boulevard and Norgate Road in Manhasset for a reported motor vehicle accident with overturn and entrapment. Multiple apparatus responded, however, while en route the dispatcher notified them that the incident was actually located in front of 220 Community Drive. Units on scene at the corrected location confirmed a three-car accident with one person trapped and multiple aided. Deputy Chief Candan [8704] arrived on scene shortly after and reported that Hurst tool equipment was being placed into operation for extrication and there were a total of five aided. The victim was freed from the vehicle and transported to North Shore University Hospital. All units were released from the scene by Deputy Chief Garrigan [8703] within 25 minutes. Unfortunately, the victim later succumbed to their injuries.
MANHASSET-LAKEVILLEThree-Car MVA with Overturn
Story and Photo by Kirk CandanAdditional Photos by Daniel Arce
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On Sunday, April 12th, the Lakeview Fire Department responded to an automatic alarm for a house fire at 719 Oriole Avenue near Eagle Avenue. Chief Fred Senti III [4100] transmitted a “smoke showing” immediately upon arrival. Further investigation by the Chief revealed fire in the 2:3 corner and heavy fire coming from the rear of the structure. Engine 414 and Ladder 411 arrived; the engine crew stretched two lines simultaneously and the ladder crew began performing truck operations. Frantic homeowners appeared and began to hysterically search for their pets. Captain Michael Koppel with the assistance of 1st Lieutenant Daniel McCrossin, saved one of the two Yorkshire Terrier puppies from the home, and the second puppy was located and saved by Firefighter Kyle Shillingford. Pets and homeowners were reunited with tearful celebration. Mutual aid was provided at the scene by a Malverne Fire Department engine and Rockville Centre Fire Department’s FAST. Additional units standing by at Lakeview's quarters hailed from the Lynbrook and East Rockaway Fire Departments.
LAKEVIEW Firefighters Save Family PetsStory and Photo by Ex-Chief Heather Senti – Lakeview Fire Department
Additional Photos: Ex-Chief Marc Watenburg – Valley Stream Fire Department
Chief Fred Senti III – Lakeview Fire Department
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Story by John Walthers and Kevin RaynorPhotos by John Walthers, Mark Yakaboski and Chris Bugge
On April 15th, around 1508 hours, the Westhampton Fire Department responded to the Sandpiper Condos on Dune Road for what came in as an automatic alarm. Upon arrival, Chief Ross Donneson [7-8-30] and Assistant Chief Bill Dalton [7-8-32] encountered heavy fire showing from the condominium complex. A working fire was transmitted, with mutual aid requested from multiple surrounding departments. East Moriches and Riverhead Fire Departments sent a ladder to the scene, while Eastport, Flanders and Quogue dispatched engines. High winds caused the fire to grow rapidly, and along with structural failure and collapse the decision was made to conduct a more aggressive exterior attack with tower ladders and master streams. Several lines were directed to protect the other exposures close to the fire building. The Suffolk County FRES Command Center and MERV were brought to the scene to assist in operations, and ambulances from all over Suffolk County participated in firefighter rehab. By around 5:40pm it appeared that firefighters had the blaze under control, however, the building was a total loss. The cause of the blaze is being investigated by police and fire officials. During the next 24 hours crews responded back to the scene to extinguish hot spots in the rubble.M
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The Patchogue Fire Department was alerted for a reported house fire Saturday, April 11th, at approximately 1730 hours on the corner of River Avenue and Fordham Street. Chief Jeff Baer [5-19-30] heard an explosion and, while enroute to that location, saw a column of smoke and had dispatch transmit the signal for a working fire. Firefighters arriving on scene were met with heavy fire conditions on the second floor one-side, and flames in the attic from front to rear. First due Engine 2, responding from the south, dropped a 5” supply line and stretched two hand lines to the front of the structure. The 2nd due unit, Truck 6, set up in front also, and the crew immediately went to work on vent, entry, and search operations. Engine 3 also dropped a 5”supply line from the north end of the block and placed a third hand line into operation. Once the fire was knocked down an extensive hydraulic overhaul was performed by crews from Truck 6. Mutual aid to the scene came from Bayport for their RIT, North Patchogue for a tower ladder and rescue truck, and Patchogue EMS for an ambulance. Hagerman Fire Department stood by for the duration of the operation at Patchogue headquarters. No injuries were reported and the Suffolk County PD Arson Squad is investigating the cause of the fire.
PATCHOGUE Heavy Fire on ArrivalStory and Photos by Robert Garofalo Additional Photos by John Walthers
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The East Farmingdale Fire Company was activated for a structural fire at 96 Allen Boulevard on April 13th at approximately 6:00pm. Chief Joe Wisz [1-5-30] arrived on scene to direct all operations, however, it turned out to be outside rubbish burning which was quickly extinguished by Engine 1-5-1 with no extension to nearby buildings.
EAST FARMINGDALEQuick KnockdownStory and Photos by Catherine Welliver
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Sunday, April 12th, brought a packed house to the Nassau Coliseum for the annual FDNY VS. NYPD Hockey Game. Each year the contest opens with introductions of the heads of both departments as well as their guests. Special guests this time around included the families of Officer Wenjian Liu and his partner Officer Rafael Ramos, who were both killed in the line of duty just a few months prior. The game remained scoreless through the entire first period. Four minutes into the second period the true battle began. The FDNY struck first and the NYPD answered back with a few strikes of their own. By the third period firefighters were finally able to tie the game, but not for long. The NYPD would go on to win 6-4. However, this game is not just about bragging rights, it is also held to raise money for the Widows and Childrens Fund which the Municipal Credit Union presented with a check in the amount of $4,000. A great time was had by all at the final shootout at the arena, which is slated to close its doors to all hockey games now that regular-season NHL games are over. Kudos to both firefighters and police for providing a fun-filled afternoon and for supporting a good cause!
UNIONDALE FDNY-NYPD Coliseum ShowdownStory and Photos by John Walthers – Suffolk Fire Photos
The Nesconset Fire Department responded to a reported overturned dump truck with fuel leak just before 8:00pm on Friday, April 10th, on Locust Street in Ronkonkoma. Upon arrival, crews discovered the driver had fled the scene. The spill was controlled and the department took up quickly.
NESCONSETDump Truck Overturn
Story and Photos by Chris Sabella
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SMITHTOWN Overturn at Country Club
Story and Photos by Jeff DiLavore
On Tuesday April 14th, the Smithtown Fire Department was alerted for a 16/23 MVA with overturn and heavy rescue on Landing Avenue near the Smithtown Country Club. While responding, Assistant Chief Mike Landrigan [4-2-31] was advised by Smithtown Communications [4-2-0] that Suffolk PD were on scene confirming entrapment and that the accident was located near the clubhouse at that location. A driver had struck a fence with her vehicle rolling onto the driver’s side. Upon arrival, Chief Landrigan directed Heavy Rescue 4-2-9 to stabilize the car and use a Sawz-All to cut through the windshield in order to gain access to the victim inside the vehicle. Within minutes, the victim was removed from the vehicle, treated by Smithtown Fire Department EMS personnel and transported to Saint Catherine’s Hospital with undisclosed injuries.
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In the evening hours of Monday, April 13th, the Brookhaven Fire Department went out to the Yaphank Fire Academy for “Class A” training. Engines and chiefs pulled up to a building that appeared to have a car on fire in the garage. However, once lines were stretched and members made entry, they discovered instructors had thrown in a twist: fire on the building’s second floor and a locked door. Despite these conditions, members were able to put the job under control in a short amount of time. Firefighters were then given a rest period and subsequently critiqued by the instructors. The night consisted of two more burning scenarios, and at around 9:15pm members packed up and headed home.
BROOKHAVEN Showing Skills
Story and Photo by John Walthers – Suffolk Fire Photos
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Story by Andrew CarpenterPhotos by Andrew Carpenter, Kim Versheck, Kevin Madigan
On Wednesday, April 15th, the Nassau County Fire Commission hosted their Annual Awards Ceremony at the Nassau County Firefighters Museum & Education Center in Garden City. The evening was emceed by Assistant Chief Fire Marshal John Priest and included an address by Chief Fire Marshal Scott Tusa. Members of the Nassau County Fire Commission were also on hand to assist in the presentation of the awards. This year’s awards honored several individuals and Departments for various incidents over the past year.
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Garden City Fire Department
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This year’s awards were:
Silver Medal of Valor awarded to Lieutenant Kevin Nicoll of the Mineola Fire Department for his actions at the Port Washington Marina Fire at the Manhasset Bay Marina on August 20, 2014. Lieutenant Nicoll, who works at the marina, shut down the gas supply to the fuel pumps after a boat exploded while refueling and also rescued a victim who was thrown into the water.
Bronze Medal of Honor awarded to Captain Joseph Scales, Firefighter Russ Fincher, Firefighter John Finneran, and Firefighter Michael Morgan of the Garden City Fire Department. On October 17, 2014, these members of the Garden City Fire Department responded to a building collapse with workers trapped and rescued 2 victims who were trapped in the collapse.
Civilian Citation awarded to Jose Mauricio. Jose, a worker at the Manhasset Bay Marina prevented further damage to the docks and other boats by towing a boat that had exploded during refueling into open water.
Unit Citations were also awarded to the Port Washington Fire Department for their response to a house explosion on August 5, 2014 as well as the Garden City Fire Department for their response to a building collapse at the former Nassau County Social Services building on October 17, 2014.
Editor’s Note: From all of us here at the FD Rant News, we would like to congratulate all of the members of the Nassau County Fire Service and also Mr. Mauricio for their bravery and for their lifesaving actions. The residents of Nassau County are lucky to have such dedicated men and women to protect them each and every day.-Jeff D
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Lieutenant Kevin Nicoll of Mineola received the Silver Medal of Valor
Mineola and West Hempstead provided ladders for an American Flag arch
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On April 14th at 1208 hours, the Brookhaven Fire Department was activated for an accident on the Southbound side of William Floyd Parkway near Flowerhill Drive. Upon arrival Assistant Chief Giuseppe Loiacono [5-3-31] advised responding units that he had two cars to secure and requested that Fire Police shut down the road. EMS personnel were treating victims in one of the vehicles when the crew from Rescue 3 was notified that they needed to remove all four doors of the vehicle so patients could be extricated. The crews went to work with the Hurst Tool and were able to assist in removing both occupants. A total of three patients were transported to a local hospital for treatment.
BROOKHAVEN MVA With Extrication
Story and Photos by John Walthers – Suffolk Fire Photos
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The Farmingville Fire Department responded to a vehicle fire Wednesday, April 15th, at approximately 0930 hours on South Bicycle Path and Mount McKinley Avenue. Under the command of Chief Al Licata [5-18-30], first due Engine 2 stretched the primary attack line and made quick work of the involved Jeep. Second due Engine 3 assisted with fire suppression and relayed tank water to Engine 2. All units were up and available a short time later. No injuries were reported.
FARMINGVILLEHot Mess
Story and Photos by Robert Garofalo
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On Wednesday, April 15th, 2015 at about 1245 hours the Levittown Fire Department and Wantagh-Levittown VAC were alerted for an MVA on Gardiners Avenue in front of the Levittown Post Office. Assistant Chief Thomas Steinwall [6201] was first on scene and found a two-car accident, each occupied by a driver only. A Wantagh-Levittown ambulance and a Levittown Fire Department ambulance responded. One victim was transported to the hospital and the other refused medical attention. Levittown Heavy Rescue 6218 also arrived on scene to secure both vehicles and apply Speedy Dry to engine fluids that had spilled on the roadway.
LEVITTOWNOne Injured in Head OnStory and Photos by Kevin Conn
Click here for More Photos of Levittown’s Head On MVA
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HAUPPAUGEPursuit Leads to EntrapmentStory and Photos by Devin Malloy
On Saturday, April 4th, at approximately 1645 hours, the Hauppauge Fire Department was alerted for a motor vehicle accident with reported heavy rescue at the intersection of Veterans Memorial Hwy (454) and Wheeler Road (Route 111). As a result of a police pursuit, a car struck a utility pole and overturned. Assistant Chief Eugene Oliver [3-8-31] arrived at that location and confirmed the early reports of an overturn with entrapment. Hauppauge Heavy Rescue 3-8-9 arrived on scene and the crew immediately went to work with hydraulic tools to remove the roof and doors of the vehicle, as well as move the dashboard, in order to free the driver. Suffolk PD Aviation was requested, and the victim was transferred to an East Brentwood Fire Department ambulance for transport to a landing zone. The victim was flown to Stony Brook University Medical Center. All units were back in service by 1730 hours.
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FACES OF THE FIRE SERVICE
Hauppauge FF Kyle Castain of Engine Company 1 at a recent MVA
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Members of Bayport RIT on the scene of a recent working fire in Patchogue
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Members of North Patchogue RIT arrive on scene at a recent fire in Patchogue
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Members of Patchogue Ambulance on the scene of a recent fire in Patchogue.
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The Pastore Family received devastating news on Monday, April 20, 2015 when they learned their 14 year-old child Marissa was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). Marissa was immediately transferred to Cohen’s Children’s Hospital for treatment but sadly her body is unable to tolerate chemotherapy. On Saturday, Marissa returned home with her loving parents, Domenick and Risa, and brothers, Domenick and Ryan, to enjoy the time they have left together. This family has dedicated their lives to helping others. Risa is an Emergency Department nurse at Huntington Hospital, Domenick is a fireman with FDNY and they both volunteer in their community with the Huntington Manor Fire Department. In order for their family to concentrate solely on loving Marissa, we are setting up this page to alleviate any financial worries. Please help us support the Pastore family with any donation you can make which will go toward covering their living expenses while they take time off from work to celebrate Marissa’s life together.
Publisher’s Note: I worked with Risa in the past and met Dominick a few times. I know that they are two very caring and compassionate people who love their family and who have committed their lives to helping others in their chosen careers; Risa as a Registered Nurse and Dominick as a New York City Firefighter. I am hopeful that they can find the strength to endure this terrible tragedy that has befallen their family. I am praying for Marissa and I am praying for the Pastore Family. I hope you all will do the same and also help out in any way you can. God Bless
-- Jeff D.
LOVE FOR THE PASTORE FAMILY
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Regular readers have probably figured out by now that EMS is a particularly dangerous craft. Yeah, obese people can tear out what’s left of your back. Stairs are an instrument of the Devil (wait till your first hump down on one of those metal circular things…now there’s an adventure…).
Disease is all over the place. We take sick, hurt, leaking people out of their place of misery, put them in our “Magic Moving Box” and then lead them to a place full of other sick, hurt, leaking people. We touch things that really shouldn’t be touched...I remember once standing in a circle around a motorcycle that had a guy’s genitals wedged between the speedo and the tach (he had checked out a while ago). We were arguing over who was going to take them out, “You do it!” “No, YOU do it!” “I ain’t doing it!” It went on like that for a while until one of the Highway guys came up with the idea of flatbedding the bike to the ER, where the staff would ultimately stand around it going, “You do it!” “No, YOU do it!” “I ain’t doing it!” For all I know, they’re still in there. We see things that can never be unseen. Don’t get me started on the smell…
When you’re young and new at stuff like this you look forward to it, maybe with a bit of trepidation, but you still look forward to it. It’s cool. It’s adventure. You’ve never seen anything like this before. Adrenaline pumps, maybe your hands tremble some, everything seems a little sharper, a little clearer. You get right in there. There might have been some running involved. The fossil you’re working with is still ambling her way up to you, hands in her pockets, bag slung over her shoulder, a slightly bemused and disinterested expression upon her face. A fleeting thought flies through your racing brain: You hope you never get like that.
Ever give a thought as to how she “got like that”? It didn’t happen overnight. There was a time when she was just like you -- ponytail flying as she ran to the aided’s side. She was a blood-stopping, life-saving machine! EMT of the Year, 1997. Most Alarms, 1998. Most Hours, 1999. Officer of the Year, 2000. You know the one I’m talking about. She’s a name or a photo on a series of dusty plaques in the meeting room.
Now? “Oh, he’s got chest pain? Nothing wrong with his feet.” And the echo of the words, “Don’t you DARE throw up in MY ambulance!” stuck in your memory. Every call seems annoying. Tones going off will evoke a grimace. She’s only interested in “The Price Is Right”, lunch time, and relieving time. 800 sheets? “Did one once.” Pizza stains down the front of the costume. That neat ponytail on her plaque pics? Currently a bit disheveled. Polished boots?
The toes have the dark, shiny finish worn down to dull, grey leather.
After work though? She comes alive at the bar...after about half a bottle of Jack. Not quite a good time unless she finds herself on her hands and knees heaving in the parking lot! Comes back from A.C. broke. She’s taking penicillin for something, and you don’t really want to know what. We’ve got a name for that. Yup. It’s called “Burnout.” Just like burns, it comes in degrees. We can be a little burned out, or we can be reduced to ashes. It can lead to bad things. Very bad things. Everybody knows what burnout is. Everybody knows where it comes from. Very few do anything about it -- in themselves or others. Like everything else we know all about, we really don’t know all that much. Because, what exactly do we burn in burnout?
Our brothers and sisters on the fire side can tell us all about what burning is. Their fire tetrahedron, or whatever number of sides it’s up to now, is pretty straightforward. Comes down to that triangly thing: Fuel:air:heat. Take away one, fire goes out. Don’t take one away and eventually the fire will burn out. Burnout. The fire used up one of the sides of the polygon. So what’s left? Cold, dark, dirty cinders. What do we burn in burnout? I submit that we burn out our souls.
What we do is stressful. I don’t think I’ll get any argument on that subject. Dead baby. All of you just had an image flash in your heads and it wasn’t pleasant. Those of you who’ve faced that nightmare pretty much remember every detail. You may be suppressing the crap out of those memories, but they’re still there. Child pedestrian-struck, burn victim, recovered drowning vic a few days later, or, he done fell in the wood chipper. Every one of these is a dehumanizing horror show. If you haven’t checked these off your dance card, you will. If you believe that you can skip cheerfully away from calls like these, or worse, you do skip cheerfully away from them, you need a bit of help. Our skill set involves doing inhuman things to human beings. In order to help, we have to hurt. Raise your hand if you enjoy the sensation of crepitus. You cringe from that “bag o’ broken glass” feeling because it’s just downright horrid. Okay, enough. You get my point. The stress that EMS generates in us is the oxidizer that burns our soul. Our soul is the fuel that’s consumed in burnout. As our soul burns, first we feel pain. Just like any other burn, there reaches a point where the nerve endings have burned away. At that point the tissue goes numb... ambling her way up to you, hands in her pockets, bag slung over her shoulder, a slightly bemused and disinterested expression upon her face...
THE BACK OF THE BUS SUICIDE: GETTING IT WRONG EVERYTIME
by Tom Cronogue
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Anybody on Facebook who asks, “What’s your favorite EMS movie?” -- well this one is right up there with “Mother, Jugs and Speed” (by the way, anybody coming to the summer class at Wyandanch better have seen M, J & S...and Supertroopers...you gotta see Supertroopers...and Star Trek...but only the odd numbered ones). “Bringing Out the Dead” is one of the darkest movies I’ve ever seen. Even so, everybody wants to be as cool as Nicholas Cage in it. Does anybody take a minute or two to think about how much he had to go through to reach the dark place he found for himself? Ever wonder how little of his soul was left at that point in time? EMS does that to you whether you’re on the Big Job or watching the corn grow outside Des Moines. EMS hurts.
When you’re burnt, after a while the numbness feels pretty good. It sure beats the pain. You feel nothing. That’s a big improvement over the constant heartache. You redevelop a sense of humor -- a sick one, but a sense of humor nonetheless. You develop an appetite again. For nothing healthy, that’s for sure, but it’s an appetite. Your love life improves (“I’m sorry...what’s your name again?”). Your manhood’s waaayyy up there; a big chunk of your salary goes to Grey Goose. What’s at the end of this road? You know where it goes. It’s in the title of this little tome.
Let me promise you a little bit of hope and change. No, really. Actual hope. Actual change. For us dinosaurs, we can restore our humanity and still peddle our wares. Just like all those burned down houses in Dix Hills (dahell is going on over there? Those poor guys are getting slammed). They look pretty bad now but they will be rebuilt, all shiny, new, and beautiful. Why? Families have their whole lives invested in them. I don’t know if you’ve thought about it, but just like them you have your whole life invested in you. You’re all you got. With a little bit of hope, you can change. You can make it back to that pure soul with the bright smile, and the ponytail, that first squiggled down in that little jump seat in the back of your first Cadillac. It ain’t easy, but it’s worth the trip. You puppies? Don’t let yourself get to where we got in the first place. There’s a ton of resources out there for you.
Suicide is very common in the medical arts. It’s very common in EMS. It became so common that at one point before the big grab by the Big Job, NYC*EMS had a whole unit devoted to identifying members of service who were at-risk for taking their own lives. There were enough of them in that category that it was worth their while to make the investment, and it worked...to a point. Medics and EMTs were still lost to the darkness. There’s a school of thought that those were the lucky ones. The ones left behind continued along in misery. That’s a really dumb school.
Hope and change? You might want to go out of your way to read the Fallen Firefighters’ Foundation Life Safety Initiative on Behavioral Health. Did you know that your agency is mandated to have a behavioral health mechanism in place for at-risk First Responders? Does yours? Bosses? Hello? McFly? The PDs have all their ducks in a row with Employee Assistance Bureaus. They work. Though, like any tool in the box, it won’t work unless you actually take it out of the box.
Kids, take a minute to assess yourselves. Okay, take more than a minute. Take as long as it takes. Assess your partners. Loved ones, assess your caregivers. We fight death on a daily basis. We don’t like death. Death sucks. Don’t embrace it. No matter how bad it gets, death is never the answer. If it is the answer, it was a very stupid question. Talk to someone. If you don’t have anyone to talk to, then talk to me. Been there. Done that. Get help…even if you think you don’t need it.
Here’s a couple of numbers:Response of Suffolk County 631-751-7500 Crisis Hotline (Nassau) 516-679-1111You just want to talk (Me) 631-806-4707. Don’t do it. We can fix this.
Peace,
Obewan
Chief Thomas Cronogue (ret.) served more than two decades as an officer in the Wyandanch-Wheatley Heights Ambulance Corp, one of Long Island’s busiest. He began his career as a member of the Deer Park Fire Department in 1969. He served with West Babylon FD, Wyandanch Fire Co., Martin Luther King, Jr. Rescue Squad and WWHAC. Professionally, he is a retired Police Officer serving 29 Years with the Nassau County PD. He worked in the Seventh, Special Services Bureau (later ESB) and the C.I.C in the Fire Police Academy in NUMC. Following retirement, he worked for the DPFD, running their career EMS program as EMS Director. Talk to him at [email protected]
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Tribute by Jodi May, Editor, FD Rant News
The entire FD Rant News Family mourns the sudden and untimely passing of Joseph (Joe) Cittadino, FDNY Queens Fire Alarm Dispatcher #172, Hewlett Bay Fire Department Dispatcher #30, long-time member and Ex-Captain of the East Rockaway Fire Department (Grant Avenue House), Nassau FD Rant Moderator, and friend to everyone.
Joe, nicknamed “Stubby”, was a larger-than-life guy with a personality and sense of humor that never quit. Always rooting for the underdog in any situation, Stubby was an avid fan of New Jersey Devils Hockey, New York Mets Baseball, and anyone who played against the New York Yankees. However, upon the retirement of Yankee Shortstop Derek Jeter, he let fly a glowing assessment of his baseball career because that’s the core of who Stubby was – a man who always gave credit where credit was due, and a man who admired, and embodied, loyalty, longevity, and a job well-done. So to me, Joe was the Derek Jeter of Queens, having worked diligently for many years in Fire Operations for the FDNY, an institution he both loved and respected. His knowledge of the fire service, both on the Big Job and in a volunteer capacity, was enviable, and he was ever-willing to share that knowledge. Joe’s motto was, “Every friend was once a stranger.” He managed to turn every person he met into a pal, made easy through his quick wit, infectious laugh, and ever-present smile. His ball-busting was legendary, his hair just as much. A perpetual class-clown with a heart as big as the tillers he adored, Joe only had one goal in mind: making others happy.
Joe loved his friends deeply, his family immensely (especially his niece and Goddaughter Gia), and all things fire with a passion. Joe’s other moniker, “Tillerman”, was widely known throughout our fire community, and he was with us at the Nassau FD Rant since its inception, helping to shape and define its success as an online haven for other “buffs” like him. Joe was that intelligent, helpful, and genuine stand-up guy people will still be talking about for years to come. He will be greatly missed, but I know he is now very content, running that big Command Post in the sky, making friends out of strangers, and making sure everyone stays safe. That’s the Joseph I will remember with much love and fondness. Rest in Peace big guy…at least till I get there…
Publisher’s Note: Wow. Sometimes there are just no words to describe how you feel when you here about the passing of a good man. That’s how I feel now. Joe [or Giuseppe as I fondly referred to him] and I joined the fire service around the same time in the late 80’s with him in East Rockaway and me in Lakeview. We would always run into each other at various 4th Battalion events and we would always shoot the shit and have a few laughs. Years later, after I took over the Nassau FD Rant, Giuseppe would contact me from time to time about being a moderator. He rose to ‘Legend’ status with his quick wit and his wealth of fire service and dispatching experience. After he became a mod he added a certain flair and humor to the community. Some of his responses to our usual troublemakers would literally make me laugh out loud when I read them. He was beloved by many including me. I am sad that I won’t get to see ‘Stubby’ again and I will miss our impromptu chats at various hours of the day or night. Rest in Peace Giuseppe. Heaven just got one heck of a good guy.--Jeff D.
IN MEMORIAM JOSEPH CITTADINO
JuLY 2, 1969 – APRIL 29, 2015
Arrangements for Joe Cittadino are as follows:Donza Funeral Home, 333 Atlantic Avenue, East Rockaway, NY 11518
WakeSaturday, May 2nd2-4pm and 7-9pm
Sunday, May 3rd2-4pm and 7-9pm
FuneralMonday, May 4th9am prayer, 10am processional to Greenfield Cemetery, Hempstead, NY
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Jeff DiLavore is a past Chief of the Lakeview Fire Department [1999-2000], a Registered Nurse and a former EMT-CC. He is also the owner of Nassau FD Rant and Suffolk FD Rant websites and the publisher and editor of Long Island FD Rant News. He can be reached at 631.766.3287 or via email at: [email protected]
Jim McNamara (Jimmy Mac) is a 25 year member and Ex-Chief of the North Bellmore Fire Department, served as the Department’s Training Coordinator, and is a founding member of both North Bellmore’s and the 6th Battalion Technical Rescue Team. Jimmy worked for the Nassau County Fire Marshal’s office for 14 years spending the last 12 as a Specialist on the Hazardous Material Response Team. He also spent 9 years as a 2nd Deputy Chief Instructor at the Nassau County Fire Service Academy where he taught Technical Rescue, Vehicle Extrication, Haz Mat, WMD and numerous other classes. Chief McNamara is currently the Adjunct Instructor for Distant Learn-ing for the Nassau FD.
Phil Lichtenberger is the owner of Monitor Long Island, Inc. which owns W2LIE.net, LongIslandFirePhotos.com, and manages sev-eral other sites. Phil has been a licensed Amateur Radio operator since 1994 and has been listening to scanner and short-wave for 20 years. You can contact him at [email protected].
Dominic Orlando is a member of the East Rockaway Fire Department with experience in the fire service ranging from volunteer service in the states of North and South Carolina and here in New York. He has been involved in one way or another with the fire service since joining the junior fire department in 1997. He is a veteran of the US Marine Corps, spending 8 years on active duty and having completed 4 separate combat tours overseas in Iraq and Afghanistan. He still remains active as a reservist with 2nd Battalion, 25th Marines out of Garden City, N.Y. as their intelligence section chief.
Mike Capoziello is a 28 year member of Hook and Ladder Co.#2 and former Chief [2011-12] of the Elmont FD. Heserves as a Department Training Officer, Public Information Officer and Historian. He has 20 plus years experience as ahouseman and dispatcher in various Nassau County departments and is currently a Supervising dispatcher with NassauCounty Firecom, training officer for the Fieldcom unit-Member of the Nassau County fire service Critical Incident Stressteam for the past 11 years and is a liaison for the team to the Nassau County Fire Commission. Chief Thomas Cronogue (ret.) served more than two decades as an officer in the Wyandanch-Wheatley Heights Ambulance Corp, one of Long Island’s busiest. He began his career as a member of the Deer Park Fire Department in 1969. He served with West Babylon FD, Wyandanch Fire Co., Martin Luther King, Jr. Rescue Squad and WWHAC. Professionally, he is a retired Police Officer serv-ing 29 Years with the Nassau County PD. He worked in the Seventh, Special Services Bureau (later ESB) and the C.I.C in the Fire Police Academy in NUMC. Following retirement, he worked for the DPFD, running their career EMS program as EMS Director. Talk to him at [email protected]
Jeff O’Toole joined the Fire Service in 1977, belonging to four different Nassau Departments. Presently a firefighter/ EMT-CC in Beth-page Engine & Ladder Co. 4, and an Assistant Decon Team Leader. He is active with the Hazmat/WMD Committee of the Nassau County Fire Commission. You can contact him at [email protected].
Tim Ivers has been a Police Officer for 30 years. He has been with the NCPD Emergency Service Unit since 1995. Prior to working in the NCPD he was a Police Officer with the NYPD. He is a past member of the Levittown Fire Dept. In addition to the usual training and certifications necessary for the police department, he is a Haz-Mat Technician as well as a WMD Technician. He holds a NYS Certifica-tion in Vehicle Extrication and is trained and certified as a Hurst Extrication Tool instructor. Tim can be reached at: ESU2422@gmail.
