Smoke billowed from fires, engines roared, and volunteer firefighters from across New York State sprang into action at the Suffolk Fire Training Facility in Yaphank. In a dramatic display of skill and coordination, first responders demonstrated their ability to extinguish burning vehicles, extricate trapped victims from simulated train crashes, and provide emergency triage — all as part of a disaster response drill hosted by the Firefighters Association of the State of New York (FASNY).
The event marked a highlight of FASNY’s 153rd Annual Convention, which took place at the Hyatt Regency Long Island in Hauppauge. While much of the convention focuses on awards, networking, and education, last week’s live training placed the emphasis squarely on what matters most: saving lives in real-time emergencies.
“This training is about more than cutting metal and putting out fires,” said Jon Barrett, FASNY Chair of Training and Education. “We’re creating a full-scale emergency response environment that mimics what our volunteers might face in the real world — car wrecks, train derailments, mass casualty incidents. It’s designed to challenge their technical skills, leadership, and decision-making in high-pressure scenarios.”
Held at the state-of-the-art Yaphank facility, the training included a Simple Triage and Rapid Treatment (START) drill to practice mass casualty triage methods. Participants donned full gear and worked together to assess injuries, prioritize victims, and simulate transporting them to safety. The exercise incorporated a mental health component, emphasizing the emotional toll of emergency response and the importance of peer support before, during, and after disasters.
“Emergency preparedness doesn’t stop with equipment and response time,” Barrett added. “It includes emotional readiness, mental health awareness, and the ability to lead in chaos. We’re proud that FASNY is making this part of the conversation.”
The training was also an opportunity to show off Suffolk’s emergency services infrastructure and commitment to public safety. Rudy Sunderman, Director of Suffolk County’s Office of Emergency Management, praised the collaboration: “This is an excellent opportunity to showcase our capabilities here at the Yaphank facility. Our fire services and EMS operations are first-rate, and together they form a strong, coordinated system to protect the public.”
The weeklong FASNY convention brought more than 1,000 volunteer firefighters, dignitaries, and guests to Suffolk County, contributing an estimated $1.1 million in local economic activity through hotel stays, meals, and events.
“It is an honor and a privilege to host this year’s convention in my home county of Suffolk,” said FASNY President Eugene Perry, Jr. “This week is about building our skills, honoring our heroes, and strengthening the bonds between firefighters from every corner of New York State.”
Highlights of the convention include a memorial service, the EMS Provider of the Year and Firefighter of the Year awards, keynote addresses on mental health in the fire service, and a “Tailgate for Heroes” fundraiser on Friday night featuring Long Island band Peat Moss and the Fertilizers.
Founded in 1872, FASNY represents the interests of approximately 80,000 volunteer firefighters and EMS personnel across New York. This year’s convention, the 15th to be held on Long Island, continues the organization’s legacy of training, camaraderie, and service.