Another signal 98 for EMFD

EMFD pagers for Station 1, 2, 3, and 4, activated for an "Unknown Type Fire" at a home on Erma Drive at 1:05 p.m.

Two minutes later, First Assistant Chief James Walsh radioed his response, followed by Second Assistant Chief Paul Kosiba. Moments later, EMFD dispatch radioed to the responding chiefs that they were now getting calls for a house fire in that location.

At 1:09 p.m., Chief Walsh arrived on the scene finding a rear deck on fire now extending to the home. A signal 98 was transmitted, meaning the first pumper in connects to a fire hydrant laying a feeder hose line and attack hose lines to the fire. There is a special call for Rescue 5 to the scene for EMS.

With no time to spare East Meadow Engines 2, 3, 4, and Ladder 1, were all on the road just 5 minutes after the phone alarm, immediately followed by Engine 1, Ladder 2, and Heavy Rescue.

At 1:12 p.m. "First Due" Engine 614 picked up the hydrant and stretched in, as civilians held the fire from getting worse with a garden hose. In the few minutes that followed, fire apparatus from all companies filled the street as firefighters reported for their assignments.

Off the Signal 98 alert, Rescue Company 5 soon arrived establishing a medical treatment and triage area. Within five minutes, all visible fire had been knocked down by engine company firefighters as the ladder company firefighters "opened up" to expose any hidden pockets of fire.

The combined efforts of good Samaritans, and a quick E.M.F.D. response made the difference in preventing more serious damage. With units freeing up at the scene EMFD did not need any mutual aid assistance.
In all, approximately 40 East Meadow volunteers responded to the fire. There were no injuries.

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.