Two EMFD members injured at house fire

Posted

At 9:29 a.m. on June 23, as EMFD Rescue Squad 4 (Engine Co 4) Rescue 5, and Chief James Walsh had just completed a Signal 9 (EMS Call), EMFD Dispatch notified Chief Walsh of a "House Fire" on Nancy Drive. Seconds later, radios blared for Engines 1, 2, 3, 4 and Ladders 1, and 2. Less than a minute into the alert, Chief of Department James Walsh and Engine 614, radioed their response to the new call.

First on scene at 9:32 a.m., Chief Walsh radioed his arrival announcing to dispatch "Smoke Showing". Taking no chances Chief Walsh quickly upgraded the alarm to a Signal 10. (Working Fire, re-alerting all East Meadow companies adding Rescue 5, a RIT (Rapid Intervention Team) and various mutual aid companies to fill in at the emptied East Meadow fire stations.

Also at 9:32 a.m., as members geared up in all other stations, "First Due" Engine 614 was already turning the corner onto Nancy Drive.

As the balance of the first alarm assignment arrived on the scene the crew of Engine 4 had already connected to the hydrant, stretched attack lines, and would be calling for water and ventilation.

The fire, a small one by comparison to most, was quickly knocked down and contained to its area of origin within minutes, as more East Meadow volunteers poured onto the front lawn in hopes of helping.

Two East Meadow volunteer firefighters received minor injuries during the call. At the medical treatment area, the homeowner was also checked out for any medical assistance needed. Those injured were transported to NUMC by ambulances 615 and 6115 of Rescue Company 5. All were released shortly thereafter.

In all, 57 East Meadow volunteers responded to the fire. Mutual aid assistance was supplied by the Levittown, North Bellmore, North Merrick, Uniondale, Hicksville, and Westbury fire departments.

Fire damage to the home was held to the single room with water damage damage to other rooms below the fire.

The EMFD Ladies Auxiliary responded with cold liquids for the firefighters after the fire

John J. O'Brien is an active Ex Chief of the East Meadow Fire Department. He is the District Supervisor of the Jericho Fire District and has over 40 years of Dispatch and Supervisory experience.