HICKSVILLE — Nassau County Executive Laura Curran today commended the efforts of county employees Robert Chiz, of the Nassau County Office of Emergency Management, and Scott DiPino, of the Nassau County Emergency Ambulance Bureau, who early yesterday freed an elderly Hicksville woman and her pets from a working house fire.
“Nassau County’s first responders confront danger every day in order to save lives and keep us all safe,” said County Executive Curran. “Our first responders again demonstrated their professionalism and bravery this morning in Hicksville, and I am deeply grateful for their courageous service.”
At approximately 7:47 a.m. the Hicksville Fire Department was notified of a house fire with person(s) trapped at 54 Park Avenue, Hicksville. Immediately upon arrival, Chief of the Department Robert Chiz transmitted a signal 10 working house fire; thereby summoning mutual aid.
Chief Chiz then assessed the scene, located a neighbor, and ascertained a resident remain trapped inside. At this time Hicksville paramedic Scott DiPino arrived on scene; whereby Chief Chiz and DiPino attempted entry through the front doorway. Due to deteriorating conditions this first entry was unsuccessful
A second entry was immediately attempted through a nearby side door, at which point the trapped occupant was visualized through a window and pulled to safety. The occupant, an elderly female, suffered smoke inhalation and minor lacerations. She was transported to NUMC for medical attention. She is expected to make a full recovery.
Simultaneously, two dogs were located and removed from the active blaze. Unfortunately, one dog expired on-scene. The other was immediately transported to an emergency veterinarian for further care.
Multiple mutual aid agencies were activated, and the fire was brought under control at approximately 8:30 a.m. The Nassau County Fire Marshall responded and is investigating.