MARCH 2007

VIEW FROM Metro Tech P OINT 9 T HE N EWSLETTER OF THE NYC FIRE D EPARTMENT Operation Fresh Battery Fire Safety campaign expanded in wake of fatal Bronx Fire

t was one of the worst fires the Department has witnessed in nearly I40 years. A three-alarm fire in a four-story pri- vate-dwelling in the Highbridge section of killed 10 people on March 7, including nine children, and injured seven others. “This is one of the most devastating fires in this city’s history,” said Mayor . In the wake of the devastation, fire marshals sadly determined the fire started and quickly spread because of a few fire safety mistakes. So the Fire Safety Educa- tion Unit and FDNY Foundation immedi- ately launched a high-profile, citywide Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta at the quarters campaign, called Operation Fresh Battery, of E-68/L-49 in the Bronx, announced that the FDNY will hand out thousands of batter- to inform New Yorkers about how to keep ies and fire safety education materials throughout in the wake of a fatal Bronx their homes fire safe. fire that killed 10 people. They were joined by (L to R) Chief of Operations Patrick The Fire Safety Education Unit kicked McNally, Chief of Department Salvatore Cassano, Commissioner of the Mayor's Com- off the campaign on March 19 at the munity Assistance Unit Patrick Brennan and Chief Fire Marshal Louis Garcia. Islamic Cultural Center in the Bronx. They continued to visit other high-risk “This tragedy reminds us of the brutal neighborhoods in each borough, handing and heart-wrenching consequences of THE FIRE out nearly 145,000 9-volt batteries and fire,” Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scop- The fire was reported at 11:08 p.m. petta said. “Our aim is to reduce fire fatal- urging people to change the batteries in in a four-story home at 1022 Woody- their smoke alarms and carbon monoxide ities in the City by ensuring that as many th people as possible learn about fire safety.” crest Avenue and 164 Street. detectors twice a year. They also gave Firefighters from Engine 68 away literature on winter safety, candle The fire appears to have been caused arrived in 3 minutes 23 seconds. safety and smoking, as well as coloring by an overheated appliance cord on a Upon their arrival, they found heavy books and magnets with kitchen fire safe- space heater in a first floor apartment. ty tips. Also, fire marshals said an apartment fire and smoke conditions on the first door was left open, facilitating the spread and second floors, including the stair- of the fire into a shared hallway and up a case. IN THIS ISSUE staircase. Then, before calling 911, resi- A second alarm was transmitted at dents unsuccessfully attempted to extin- ❏ Commissioner’s 11:15 p.m. and a third was called at guish the fire themselves. 11:46 p.m. The fire was deemed Message Page 2 Fire marshals also found two smoke under control at 1:06 a.m. detectors in the building, yet they did not ❏ FDNY News Pages 3-10 have batteries. Seventeen people suffered injuries “We remain committed to doing every- as a result of the fire. Ten people died ❏ Profile of the Month Page 11 thing we can to prevent tragedies like this as a result of their injuries, including from occurring ever again,” said Jocelyn boys ages 1, 3, 6, 7, 11 and 6-months; ❏ Photos of the Month Page 12 Greenwood, acting executive director of girls ages 3, 6 and 6-months; and a the FDNY Foundation, which donated 42-year-old woman. $75,000 for the purchase of the batteries. FDNYNEWS ViewPoint from 9 MetroTech March 2007

Making Firefighting Safer By Improving Personal Protective Equipment

he Department is constantly evaluating new ways to layer to protect against heat and moisture. improve firefighters’ first line of defense – their It would provide a more streamlined Tbunker gear. In a continuing effort to offer our shape and improved range of motion, Commissioner’s members the best fire protection possible, the FDNY’s while offering higher levels of protection Message Chief of Safety, Assistant Chief Allen Hay, and his team from burns and cuts. have been studying the durability and design of your gear The Safety Command also is looking for ways to reduce and are working to improve its function so we can continue the number of lower leg injuries our members sustain each to reduce injuries and increase firefighter agility. year. After years of use, a firefighter’s bunker gear endures Lower leg burns have been drastically reduced since wear and tear, which is a badge of honor for most members. bunker gear was first introduced in 1994, dropping from Yet the soon-to-be-released National Fire Protection Asso- more than 500 aggregate burn injuries each year to less than ciation (NFPA) Standard 1851 requires that gear be 100. While most of these burns are minor, about 10 mem- replaced every 10 years because the moisture barrier usual- bers a year need skin grafts at the Burn Center, and many ly does not provide suitable levels of protection after a others are put on medical leave. decade of use. There are also issues with the layers of the The Safety Command continues to work with our gear thermal lining losing effectiveness over time due to it supplier, Total Fire Group, to develop new ways to reduce bunching and separating, the fabric of the outer shell weak- the number of lower leg burns each year. Currently bunker ening and becoming less resistant to cuts and tears, and the pants include an Arashield (waterproof) liner on the front of loss of seam strength. the knee to reduce burns resulting from hot water being To ensure that all members are properly equipped, we absorbed into the thermal liner. Yet some firefighters find have decided to begin exchanging your gear immediately – this layer can constrict movement, so Safety is looking for even before the Standard is released. So if your bunker coat another type of lower leg protective. and pants are more than 10 years old, you will be issued Several pilot programs have been developed to address new gear a few weeks after the old gear is sent out for the issue, including one in which bunker pants were lined cleaning. with a waist-to-toe moisture barrier, removing the thermal This new gear will include a Drag Rescue Device liner and moisture barrier from inside the boot and attach- (DRD), a Kevlar strap positioned just below the collar on ing it to the bottom of the pant leg. the rear of the coat that, when released, enables a firefight- Evaluations from these pilot programs are being er to be dragged without the coat pulling above his or her reviewed and we are continuing to explore other ways to head. The DRD is deployed easily and is far superior to any reduce these types of injuries. other similar device used by departments throughout the The purpose of all of this new gear is to ensure that our world. This is a major advancement in firefighter safety that firefighters are more protected than ever before when will no doubt keep you and your fellow firefighters safer in responding to life threatening emergencies across the city. the many hazardous situations they encounter. This development process takes time, but I am encouraged We also are looking into getting new gloves with an the Department is leading the way to increase the already improved design that will reduce hand injuries while high level of protection afforded our members. improving dexterity. We have been researching a three- dimensional model that creates a tube-like opening for the finger instead of the two flat surfaces of the current glove. This style also uses a thinner – yet more effective – thermal

2 COMMISSIONER’S MESSAGE ViewPoint from 9 MetroTech March 2007 Gift of the Irish FDNY accepts Waterford Crystal Sculpture Honoring Members Lost on 9/11

thereal, breathtaking and exception- al are three words that describe the Esculpture given to the Department from Waterford Crystal on March 14. They are also words used to describe the man it was created to honor. Officials from the iconic Irish crystal company joined members of the FDNY to present the three-foot tall, 20-pound sculp- ture as a tribute to Department Mychal Judge and the 342 other FDNY members who were killed on , 2001. “The sculpture is a beautiful piece of art and the sentiment behind it is greatly appre- ciated,” said Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta. “It is a wonderful memorial for Father Judge and to everyone who respond- ed on 9/11.” The dedication was held at the quarters of Engine 1/Ladder 24, where the piece will be housed. Father Judge called the fire- house his own and responded from there to the World Trade Center disaster. “This beautiful crystal creation, gifted to the FDNY and the people of New York, is a testament to their courage, bravery and dignity following that dark day in Septem- ber 2001,” said CEO of Waterford John Foley. Yet the story of how the piece was cre- ated and donated is just as outstanding as the sculpture itself. Master Waterford Engraver and Glass- cutter Sean Egan was devastated following the attacks of 9/11 and searched for ways to pay tribute to the FDNY members who responded to the tragedy. He said he was suddenly inspired by a (Top) Master Engraver and Glasscutter Sean Egan (left) and Firefighter Michael piece of crystal he saw that reminded him O'Rourke stand beside the Waterford sculpture. Firefighter O'Rourke met Egan while on of a church window and began creating the a tour of the Waterford factory. piece in his personal time – mostly lunch (Bottom) The Waterford Crystal sculpture honoring Father Mychal Judge and other hours and weekends. FDNY members killed on 9/11. It will be housed at Engine 1/Ladder 24 in . Firefighter Michael O’Rourke from Division 7 happened to be touring the Waterford factory last October when some- FDNY and Waterford. thanks go to the Fire Department for one called his attention to the engraver who Soon after, Waterford commissioned the accepting this piece for what it is and the was referring to a clipped newspaper photo piece to be made for the Department. story behind it. May you use it as a of Father Judge being carried from the It took Egan about six months to create reminder that we haven’t forgotten about wreckage. and is estimated to be worth more than you.” $75,000. Among the honored guests at the dedi- The firefighter said he was over- cation ceremony were Father Judge’s sister whelmed by the concept and brought the “It was really a labor of love,” Egan said. “I’m overwhelmed to be honest. My Dympna Jessi and Ireland’s Farm Minister project to the attention of officials from the Mary Coughlan.

FDNYNEWS 3 ViewPoint from 9 MetroTech March 2007 Reason to Celebrate Graduating proby class includes legacies, vets

he count on deck was 194 and all had Ta reason to celebrate. The fourth probationary firefighter class of 2006 graduated from the Fire Academy on February 22, during an enthusiastic ceremony at Col- lege. “The paths that led you to this day are different,” Mayor Bloomberg said. “Thank you each for answering the call.” Among the graduates was Probation- ary Firefighter Steven Hay, son of Assis- tant Chief Allen Hay of the Safety Com- mand who noted that he was “very, very proud” of his son. Additionally, Probationary Firefighter Maura Fitzsimmons joined the ranks just days after her sister Michele was promot- ed to lieutenant (see the story on page10). Firefighter Christopher Schiotis also One of the 194 probationary firefighters graduates at Brooklyn College on February 22. graduated during the ceremony. His late father James was a firefighter in Engine Firefighter Raymond Murphy Jr. lost his it’s in your heart.” 280 and his brother Michael is a firefight- father Raymond in the tragedy. A special round of applause was given er in Ladder 132. Keeping with the tradition of family, to the probationary firefighters who “You are joining a truly special group the graduating class also included a pair served in the armed services, 11 of whom of men and women from whom you will of siblings. Brothers Gerard and Mark did a tour of duty in Iraq. Among them learn this job,” Fire Commissioner Mullaney were among the graduates were Probationary Firefighters Stephen Nicholas Scoppetta said. crossing the stage to accept their framed Marley, Jr. and Eric D. Mussinan, both of Two of the probies said they were certificates. whom earned the Military Order of the inspired to join the Department by their “This job attracts a unique group of Purple Heart. brave family members who made the people,” said Chief of Department Salva- The class Valedictorian, Probationary Supreme Sacrifice on September 11, 2001 tore Cassano. “Individuals who are will- Firefighter Kevin McCabe, said that – Probationary Firefighter Luke Allen lost ing to put their lives on the line for a proby training at Randall’s Island yielded his brother Richard and Probationary stranger. Firefighting isn’t in your blood, many lessons. “These past 13 weeks were arduous to say the least,” he said. “We learned to Probie Makes His First Grab operate as members of a team to accom- plish a common goal.” ust days after graduating from the where they were told a family was The class Salutatorian was Probation- FDNY Training Academy, Proba- trapped. J ary Firefighter James V. Devito and the tionary Firefighter Sean O’Grady of With no visibility, Probationary Physical Fitness Award recipient, Proba- Ladder 147 helped save a mother and Firefighter O’Grady used the extin- tionary Firefighter Thomas J. Bradley. her two young sons from their burn- guisher to beat back flames as the oth- ing apartment at 870 Coney Avenue ers searched for victims. DO YOU HAVE A in Ditmas Park, Brooklyn. They located 38-year-old Asa Flo- GREAT STORY TO Firefighter O’Grady, Lieutenant res and her sons Abraham, 4, and SHARE? Gerard Curran and Firefighters Chris Abdul, 2 in different rooms of the HOW ABOUT Deszcz and Donald Wunderlich apartment and carried them to safety. climbed four flights of stairs and The fire, which marshals said was AN UPCOMING EVENT? forced their way into an apartment accidental, started in the kitchen. EMAIL THE VIEWPOINT AT [email protected].

4 FDNYNEWS ViewPoint from 9 MetroTech March 2007

A New Kind of Paramedic 52 EMS members become certified rescue medics

o space is too tight, too high or Ntoo arduous for a new highly-trained group of paramedics in the EMS Command. Since January, 52 res- cue medics trained in spe- cial operations have been saving lives like never before, by treating patients before extrication from confined spaces. “In any job, seconds count,” said Chief of Department Salvatore Cassano. “So the rescue medics’ highly-special- ized training enables them to provide extraordinary care more quickly to vic- tims and, therefore, save more lives.” In January, a team of rescue medics were called to the Brooklyn Navy Yard when a ship worker fell into a hole on a fuel barge. The medics made contact with the victim A rescue medic treats a man who fell into a hole Rescue medics spend nearly one month training at and worked with SOC on a fuel barge on January 23 at the Brooklyn the Fire Academy on Randall’s Island. They study firefighters to perform a Navy Yard. everything from collapse rescue to high angle pro- high-angle rescue in the cedures. 18-inch wide hole. “Their skills were criti- cal that day,” said Chief of hours studying ‘crush medicine.’ They eran. “I always wanted to get involved in EMS Command John Peruggia. “All also receive advanced Haz-Mat training. rescue operations. It feels good to make a these members are bringing pre-hospital Upon completion of their training, res- difference.” care to the landscape of an urban battle- cue paramedics are able to intubate a vic- The first rescue paramedic class grad- field.” tim in a narrow crawl space, work in har- uated in late 2006 and members began To be certified as a rescue paramedic, nesses and protective masks, rappel from being dispatched earlier this year from EMS members must complete nearly one ropes and operate among debris. EMS Stations 10, 20, 57, 46 and 23. month of training at the Fire Academy on “People think you run in a hole and The training is funded through a grant Randall’s Island. This includes 40 hours pull someone out, yet it’s so much more provided by U.S. Department of Home- studying collapse rescue, 40 hours of con- complex than that,” said Rescue Para- land Security’s 2005 Assistance to Fire- fined space rescue, 40 hours in combined medic Lenore O’Neill, a seven-year vet- fighter Program. trench and high angle procedures, and 24

FDNYNEWS 5 ViewPoint from 9 MetroTech March 2007 The Ultimate Gift Bone marrow donors meet their recipients at annual ceremony

irefighters Stephen Duffy of Lad- der 16 and Robert O’Neill of FEngine 304 each were honored on January 19 for saving a life. Yet they did not carry these individuals out of burning buildings or pull them from a trapped elevator … they gave them their bone marrow. During the Honor Roll of Life ceremo- ny at Fire Department Headquarters, sponsored by the New York Blood Center (NYBC), the firefighters met their bone marrow recipients for the first time. “We’re proud of their contributions Captain William Connolly receives the and hope their example encourages others Samantha Alcazar flew to New York from first Kwalwasser Award for making three to give the gift of life,” said Fire Com- Mexico to meet her bone marrow donor, separate bone marrow donations since missioner Nicholas Scoppetta. Firefighter Stephen Duffy. 1996. He received the award from Nancy During the ceremony, 18-year-old Johnson, who was his first recipient more Samantha Alcazar from Guadalajara, happy to meet Alcazar. than a decade ago. Mexico finally got to thank the man who “To see Samantha healthy is over- saved her life, Firefighter Duffy. whelming,” he said. “The odds of having Honoring Selflessness: “I feel great,” said Alcazar, shyly smil- a successful match are staggering. And so The Kwalwasser Award ing. “I was scared until I met my angel.” this is just wonderful.” Alcazar was diagnosed with Fanconi’s ire Captain William P. Connolly of Firefighter O’Neill’s recipient, retired FDivision 7 is well known as a hero on Anemia, a rare blood disease, when she college professor John Deeney, 65, from the fire ground. Yet it was a different kind was 13. She was hospitalized in Texas Dover, Delaware, said he was filled with of heroism that earned him a special where she received her bone marrow gratitude for his donor’s selflessness. award on January 19. He was recognized for making three transplant in January 2004. Before his transplant, Deeney, a great- Firefighter Duffy said he was just as separate bone marrow donations since grandfather with leukemia, 1996. was given a slim chance Nancy Johnson, who received his life- for long-term survival. He saving bone marrow 11 years ago, pre- had entered two clinical sented him with the first-ever Kwalwass- trials and a bone marrow er Award during the Honor Roll of Life ceremony at FDNY Headquarters. transplant was his last Captain Connolly said he was the resort. potential donor for eight recipients over “No words can the last decade, and was honored to have describe how appreciative been able to donate to three individuals. I am,” he said. The award is named in honor of retired Firefighter Mark Kwalwasser from Firefighter O’Neill said Engine 43 and is dedicated to his sister, he had been called to Elaine Diedrich, who lost her fight donate four times and was against leukemia before a suitable bone disappointed that he was marrow match could be made. not able to donate every In her memory, Kwalwasser created time. the FDNY program to encourage fire- fighters to register as bone marrow “I was just thankful that Firefighter Robert O’Neill met his bone marrow recipient donors. He also established a recruitment I matched up with some- drive at the Fire Academy for probies. John Deeney for the first time during the ceremony. Continued on page 12

6 FDNYNEWS ViewPoint from 9 MetroTech March 2007 Double the Joy Firefighters save twin girls in Harlem apartment fire

t was the kind of rescue you only see in Ithe movies. Members of Squad 41 and Ladder 14 plucked two-year-old twins Taylor and Talilah Davis from their cribs and carried them to safety on February 11, as heavy smoke engulfed their Harlem apartment and fire raged on the floors below. The toddlers were discovered by Fire- fighters James Disciullo and Michael Linde in a rear bedroom during an interi- or search of the fifth floor of 110 Lenox Avenue. They said after they took down the Davis’s apartment door, the members had to crawl down a hallway with no visibili- ty to get to the girls. Once they reached them, the twins were passed out the window into the wait- ing arms of Firefighters Daniel Shaffer and George Baade who were in the buck- et of the tower ladder. Firefighter Shaffer said the twins were Members of Squad 41 and Ladder 14 rescued two toddlers from a three-alarm fire on Feb- crying at first, but then became excited by ruary 11. (L to R) Lt. Michael Conboy (Sq-41), Firefighter Daniel Shaffer (L-14), Fire- the attention they were receiving. fighter James Disciullo (Sq-1) and Firefighter George Baade (L-14). The children then were handed off to Fire marshals determined the three- The fire was reported at 3:26 p.m. and EMT Kyra Arnold who treated them at alarm fire was caused by a child playing was brought under control a little more the scene. with matches in a third floor apartment. than an hour later. Close to Home 49-year-old Victim Grabbed from Third-Floor Window

s he rode to a fire on February 3, Milukas said. over the fire floor. Firefighter Victor Milukas of Upon arrival, they learned that two A charged line was directed on the sec- ALadder 142 was shocked to hear women already had jumped out of win- ond floor to create a water curtain that the address of the emergency. dows, and there were reports of a man on provided enough relief from the intense “What was that address again?” he the third floor. heat and flames for Firefighter Milukas to remembered asking. “I couldn’t believe “We knew there was someone defi- climb the ladder and enter the window. it.” nitely trapped,” said Lieutenant Michael Once inside he was met by Lieutenant The location was 95-86 113th Street in Stackpole. “There was an incredible Stackpole who had approached from inte- Jamaica, across the street from a connect- sense of urgency and your training just rior with the assistance of Squad 27 and ed row frame house where his mother takes over.” helped cleared a path for egress. lives and where he grew up. Approaching through a rear yard of a They placed the semi-conscious victim “It gave me an extra adrenaline rush,” plumbing supply company, Firefighter on an ironing board and were assisted he said. Milukas, a 10-year veteran, jumped a with the removal from the top of the stairs The fire began around 1 p.m. and fence and positioned the ladder against by members of Rescue 4. quickly engulfed the three-story resi- the building. He was accompanied by The victim was handed off to EMS dence. “We could see the column of Firefighter William Hughes. and transported to New York-Presbyter- smoke 10 blocks away,” Firefighter That is when he saw the right leg of the ian /Weill Cornell Medical Center. 49-year-old man at the window, directly

FDNYNEWS 7 ViewPoint from 9 MetroTech March 2007 Thawing It Out Special Units Keep Hydrants Working Citywide in Chilly Temps

here’s no question – it was a cold win- Tter. And sustained freezing weather meant firefighters faced unique challenges, including frozen hydrants and apparatus. So when temperatures dipped, members quartered in houses with special thawing apparatus get moving. Specially built steam-generating trucks (one in each borough) were activated when the temperature dropped to 25 degrees or less for 24 hours or more. They work around the clock to defrost hundreds of hydrants a week and make sure equipment on the fire ground is free of ice. “Our main job is to make sure water pressure is not compromised,” said Lieu- Special thawing apparatus located at firehouses in every borough work to defrost hun- tenant Douglas Nixon of Engine 330. dreds of hydrants when temperatures dip below 25 degrees. “Safety is paramount.” Located in the quarters of Engine the water. ders and to ensure adequate water supply. 76/Ladder 22, Engine 330/Ladder 172, “If there is a leak or deposits in the bar- This winter the unit was critical to oper- Engine 151/Ladder 76, Engine 265 and rel, water can build up repeatedly and ations at numerous jobs, including at the 6- Engine 97, the Department’s thawing appa- sometimes we have to return several times alarm fire on February 3 in Far Rockaway, ratus were used regularly this winter. to thaw it completely,” said Captain Queens (see story on page 9). The rigs carry their own water supply – Thomas Smyth of Engine 97. “The colder “The apparatus is an important tool about 100 gallons – and use high-pressure the weather, the longer it takes.” when climate conditions impede firefight- steam to melt the ice that accumulates in The thawing apparatus also is put in ing,” said Captain Gregory Gargiso of the barrels of hydrants. Then an electric service during large-scale fires and other Engine 151. pump, similar to a swimming pool pump, is emergencies in freezing weather, to help do inserted into the hydrant and used to drain anything from remove ice from aerial lad- A Great Firefighter, A Great Gift Department receives grant in honor of 9/11 hero

irst Deputy Commissioner “Everyone will remember these Frank Cruthers and Chief of tools were given to the Department in FOperations Patrick McNally honor of this great individual,” said accepted a $35,000 grant from Wells Captain Steven Olberding from Fargo Insurance Services and Fire- Engine 205. man’s Fund Insurance Company on The grant package is part of a pro- February 23 at Fire Headquarters. gram, funded by the Fireman’s Fund The grant will help fund improve- Insurance Company, which provides ments to the Department’s high-rise equipment, training and educational firefighting capabilities. It was made tools to fire departments nationwide. in honor of Firefighter Peter Vega of “He was a bright, modest, open- The Department received a grant, in memory of Fire- Ladder 118, who made the Supreme minded, sensitive man who just fighter Peter Vega, to help fund improvements to the Sacrifice on 9/11. wanted to do good in this world,” FDNY’s high-rise firefighting capabilities. “This grant will even further said Firefighter Vega’s mother, improve our operations and will large ventilation fans for use in high-rise Maureen Rosenberg. “I’m grateful enable us to fight high-rise fires better than fires and a state-of-the-art computer train- and honored that he will forever be ever before,” said Chief McNally. ing system to be set up at Firefighter remembered as more than just a name on a The grant will fund the purchase of two Vega’s firehouse – Engine 205/Ladder 118. list.”

8 FDNYNEWS ViewPoint from 9 MetroTech March 2007 Sixth Alarm Scare Dispatchers, firefighters and EMS work together to save a woman and her two daughters

raging six-alarm fire spread quickly through a six-story apartment build- A ing in Far Rockaway, Queens on February 3. The first call came in at 11:46 p.m. reporting a fire in a fifth floor apartment. Within minutes it had spread throughout the building and into the cockloft. The flames also extended to a neighboring building. The sixth alarm was transmitted at 1:29 a.m. (a seventh alarm was later called for relief purposes) and it was brought under control at 4:10 a.m. Yet the harrowing story of this fire can best be told through the eyes of one of the building’s residents, Christine McMillon. This brave mother was awakened to the Dispatcher Ben Vivona meets fire victim Christine McMillon and her daughter Katie on sound of her smoke detector. February 7. Just days earlier he helped keep the mother of two calm when she was She pulled back the sheet, which trapped during a six-alarm fire in Far Rockaway, Queens. served as the door to her bedroom, and saw a wall of smoke filling her living McMillon said she was not. several minutes as firefighters worked to room. She dialed 9-1-1 and spoke with “I was really scared for my kids,” she contain the fire on the floor below. Dispatcher Ben Vivona, who said he said. “There was so much smoke and I The dispatcher remained calm and would help lead firefighters to her where- didn’t know what was going on.” reassuring as he stayed on the line with abouts. Moments later, Dispatcher Vivona McMillon. He comforted her and Then -- just after hanging up the phone called back to make sure she and her fam- explained why she was hearing the sound -- she said her lights went out and she ily were okay. of breaking glass and the buzz of the car- became trapped in her apartment by the “I put myself in her spot,” he said. “I bon monoxide detector. He also kept her intense heat and smoke with her two couldn’t let the call go, I had to help her. from panicking as she attempted to open young daughters, Chanise, 3 and Katie, 1. She was really scared.” the window for air, which was stuck. Although her children were calm, He stayed on the phone with her for “When I heard the firefighters’ Halli- gan tools hit her front door, I was so relieved,” he said. Firefighters led by Lieutenant Steven Sharp of Engine 265 broke down her door, covered their heads and led them down the staircase to the street. “We had to move as quickly as possible to effectuate their removal,” Lieutenant Sharp said. Smoke had filled the room, breathing became difficult and there was no visibili- ty. Lieutenant Sharp carried Chanise out the window and she was later transported by EMS to St. John’s Hospital. In all, five civilians and 33 firefighters sustained minor injuries in the blaze. The building was gutted and the roof Firefighters operate at the six-alarm fire in Far Rockaway, Queens on February 3 burned away, causing nearly 200 residents to be displaced.

FDNYNEWS 9 ViewPoint from 9 MetroTech March 2007 Lunch Hour Rescue FDNY employee saves her co-worker from choking

t wasn’t a typical lunch hour. Her quick thinking paid off. Bentsen IStaff Secretary Terri Bentsen from the started coughing and was able to breathe Honor Emergency Fund was eating Chi- again. nese dumplings at FDNY Headquarters And even though they were a little recently when a piece lodged in her shaken, they went right back to work. throat. “Anybody in my position would have She panicked. done the same,” Roman said. “I’m just “I couldn’t get it up or down,” she said. happy I was able to help.” “I really started to worry.” Bentsen said she bought her co-worker Clerical Associate Joanne Roman, who a bouquet of flowers the next day in sits in a nearby work cubicle on the 5th appreciation. floor, saw that Bentsen was unable to “I am so proud of her,” said Deputy speak, turning purple and obviously in Director for Medical Systems Manage- distress. She quickly administered the ment Roz Servande, Roman’s supervisor. Heimlich maneuver, a technique she “I am thrilled she is part of the FDNY learned just a year ago. family.” Joanne Roman saved a coworker from choking at Headquarters Tradition of Service Fitzsimmons sisters follow their firefighting heritage

hen sisters Michele and Maura Fitzsimmons decided to Wbecome firefighters, they weren’t just making a career decision, they were carrying on a family tradition that dates back nearly 100 years. Their great-grandfather, Charles Roth, joined the Department in 1909 and was assigned to Ladder 20. His daughter married Firefighter Michael Fitzsimmons, who joined the FDNY in 1932 and was assigned to the same company. Firefighter Fitzsimmons then rose through the ranks to battalion chief of Battalion 50 before retiring in 1968. Lieutenant Michele Fitzsimmons joined the Department in 2001 and was promoted along with 45 other firefighters Lt. Michele Fitzsimmons (center) is joined by her sister Probationary Firefighter Maura during a ceremony at LaGuardia Commu- Fitzsimmons and Commissioner Scoppetta at her promotion ceremony on February 16. nity College on February 16. Then less than a week later, her younger sister Maura graduated from proby school. Lieutenant Fitzsimmons said. “It’s a won- Probationary Firefighter Fitzsimmons “Inspired by family history and a love derful career.” was assigned to Engine 307 and said she of the job, these two sisters embody the And Probationary Firefighter Fitzsim- was anxious to begin her career as her sis- greatest traditions of the FDNY,” said Fire mons said she could not agree more. ter begins officer training. Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta. “I am following her lead,” she said. And to continue the family tradition, The sisters agreed that firefighting is in “My sister gave me good advice and Lieutenant Fitzsimmons said she will pass their blood. demonstrated the meaning of persever- her grandfather’s badge number on to her “I urged [my sister] to take the test,” ance.” firefighter sister.

10 FDNYNEWS ViewPoint from 9 MetroTech Profile of the Month March 2007 A Legal Eagle Deputy Commissioner Daniel Shacknai to head Legal Affairs

e has never been one to sit back and Before going to law school, he said he Hwatch things happen. decided to go into social work to “try to Daniel (Don) Shacknai, the FDNY’s make a difference.” Deputy Commissioner for Intergovern- He got a job as a family counselor with mental Affairs and Management Initia- Victims Services Agency, a non-profit tives, was named as the new Deputy social service agency in the Bronx. He Commissioner for Legal Affairs on Janu- also worked as researcher and advocate ary 29. on civil rights issues. In his new position, Commissioner “I was a pretty sheltered suburban Shacknai will serve as the Department’s boy,” he said. “Those early work experi- internal counsel and offer advice to all ences were very formative.” bureaus and the Fire Commissioner. In He then went on to law school, gradu- addition to his new responsibilities, Com- ating magna cum laude from Cornell Uni- missioner Shacknai will continue to over- versity in 1993. see the Intergovernmental Affairs Bureau. Soon after graduation he joined the “I hope to hit the ground running,” he law firm of Simpson, Thacher and Bartlett said. “And I’m very pleased to have this in Manhattan, where he worked as a liti- Don Shacknai opportunity.” gation associate in the securities and Commissioner Shacknai joined the insurance fields. FDNY five years ago to help secure “He has outstanding skills as a lawyer Although he enjoyed the position, he grants and coordinate resources to help and a genuine commitment to public serv- said he always wanted to return to work in the Department rebuild after the devastat- ice,” said Fire Commissioner Nicholas public service. ing losses of 9/11. He also served on the Scoppetta. So when the City’s child welfare sys- steering committee for the McKinsey & Commissioner Shacknai was born and tem was undergoing significant changes Company study into FDNY operations, raised in Wayne, New Jersey and earned in its organizational structure in the late which put him in the forefront of terror- his undergraduate degree in English liter- 1990s, he said he wrote a letter to Com- ism preparedness. ature from Bucknell University. missioner Scoppetta, who had been appointed by former Mayor Rudolph Giu- liani to head the Administration for Chil- dren’s Services (ACS), and asked if he could be of assistance. “I wanted to get involved even if it was on a pro bono basis,” he said. Commissioner Scoppetta invited him to join ACS, and he took a significant pay cut to first serve as the bureau’s Associate General Counsel for Compliance and then Deputy General Counsel. Commissioner Shacknai said he finds city service to be extremely rewarding and enjoys working for the FDNY. “It’s a premier agency in the city,” he said. “It’s the best place I have ever worked.” Recognizing Heroism: Firefighter Brian Pascascio of Engine 318 and EMT Daniel However, despite all of his prominent Fitzpatrick (not pictured) were honored for their acts of bravery during a ceremony at positions, Commissioner Shacknai said FDNY High School on February 28. Firefighter Pascascio was commended for rescu- his favorite role is that of father. He and ing an elderly woman from an apartment fire in August and EMT Fitzpatrick was his wife, Eve, who is a children’s televi- praised for preventing a woman from being hit by a subway train in January. They sion consultant, have a three-year-old son, each received a framed copy of the newspaper article written about each of their res- Noah. cues. The ceremony also served as a dedication ceremony for classrooms at the high school, which were named to honor FDNY members who died on 9/11.

FDNYNEWS 11 ViewPoint from 9 MetroTech March 2007

Eleven firefighters who donated bone marrow in 2006 were inducted into the NYBC's Honor Roll during the ceremony. Captain Con- nolly and Firefighters Duffy and O'Neill also were honored by Irish America Magazine as one of their "Top 100 People of the Year" in its April/May issue. was a blessing to have been able to give diseases, including cancers and blood dis- The Ultimate Gift that sort of a gift.” orders (some firefighters have donated Continued from page 6 Since the program’s inception in 1990, multiple times). The FDNY is the largest one,” said Firefighter O’Neill. “It’s nice 83 firefighters have donated bone marrow single group registered with the NYBC, to be able to say I saved someone’s life. It to help 91 patients with life-threatening with more than 13,000 members. To learn more about the program or to PHOTOS OF THE MONTH find out how you can be a bone marrow donor, visit www.nybc.org. VIEW

P OINT MARCH 2007 NEWSLETTER OF THE NYC FIRE DEPARTMENT

FIRE DEPARTMENT CITY OF NEW YORK 9 METROTECH CENTER BROOKLYN, NEW YORK 11201

Michael R. Bloomberg, Mayor, City of New York Nicholas Scoppetta, NYC Fire Commissioner FRANCIS X. GRIBBON DEPUTY COMMISSIONER

Pride of the Irish: Mayor S. PAUL ANTONELLI Michael Bloomberg, Fire PUBLICATIONS DIRECTOR Commissioner Nicholas EMILY RAHIMI Scoppetta, Chief of EDITOR

Department Salvatore ANDREA DELLA MONICA Cassano, Chief of Opera- WRITER tions Patrick McNally and THOMAS ITTYCHERIA former Governor George GRAPHICS / LAYOUT Pataki led several thou- SFM RALPH BERNARD, sand firefighters and EMS RANDY BARRON, EMT ROBERT DOMINGO, FF CHRIS LANDANO, members in the 246th KRISTIAN PORTELLA, HEATHER SMITH Annual St. Patrick's Day PHOTO UNIT Parade on March 17. ViewPoint is published entirely in-house by the FDNY Office of Public Information/Publications Pipes and Drums bands from the Fire and EMS FDNY Command energized the 1865-2007 crowd that lined Fifth A 143 YEAR HISTORY Avenue in Manhattan for OF COMMITMENT, COURAGE & COMPASSION more than 40 blocks. FDNYNEWS