While the winter cold meant putting on extra layers and warming up some hot chocolate for most Oyster Bay residents, for the firefighters of Atlantic Steamer Fire Company it meant an opportunity to get some hands-on training in ice rescue.
With the harbor frozen over on Feb. 15 for the first time in years, the frigid conditions served as an ideal opportunity to train firefighters in the hazardous challenges of ice rescue. Training was led by Dive Captain Pablo Fernandez and Boathouse Captain Bill Gagliano, with additional assistance from Chief Francesco Barbera and other dive team members.
Training such as this is especially crucial for Atlantic Steamer members, as their company has the only dive team across Nassau County’s entire North Shore.
The company welcomes anyone interested in joining their all-volunteer crew. Anyone interested in joining as a firefighter, emergency medical transport, boat team member or scuba rescue diver can contact Atlantic Steamer at (516) 554-2611.
