EMFD responds to car crash on Merrick Avenue, fire on Cleveland Avenue

On October 26 at 9:38 p.m. EMFD radios for Engine 1, Heavy Rescue 6, and Rescue 5, were alerted for a motor vehicle accident at the intersection of Merrick Avenue and Stewart Avenue. With units on the road, dispatch announced to responders to use caution as the scene was unsecure and police actively searched for one operator who left the scene on foot.

Under the direction of Asst Chief James Walsh, East Meadow volunteers, together with Nassau County police, worked to secure the scene as an NCPD ambulance transported one person the Nassau university Medical Center with non-life threatening injuries.

EMFD takes out fire on Cleveland Avenue

On October 28 at 8:51 a.m., East Meadow Fire Department volunteers from Engines 1,2,3,4, and Ladders 1, and 2, were alerted to a house fire on Cleveland Avenue.

Within minutes, EMFD Chiefs led by First Assistant Chief James Walsh were on the road, soon followed by the firefighters and equipment. First on scene, Asst Chief Walsh found smoke coming from the attic. He quickly transmitted a Signal 98 (First engine in to connect to hydrant and stretch attack lines, re-alert all companies, adding the EMS from Rescue 5) Additional Chiefs responding were Asst Chief Paul Kosiba and Chief Eric Becker who assumed command upon his arrival.

Minutes later, first due Engine 612 arrived on the scene and prepared for the attack as first in Ladder 619 prepared to locate the fire, and search for any occupants.
These companies were soon supplemented with the additional resources of first alarm assignment.

With the attack underway, and ceilings being pulled, the origin of the fire would soon be found at an electrical fixture. A quick knockdown, and check of any extension, proved successful before the fire could gain a hold of the attic area.

It was soon learned that an exterminating serviceman saw the smoke and informed the homeowner who woke other family members.

Fire damage was held to a kitchen light fixture and ceiling joists, along with an area of ceiling pulled in checking for hidden fire. There were no injuries.

With all EMFD units tied up at the scene, mutual aid was requested from neighboring departments to cover the balance of the fire district in the event on any other incidents.

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.