Suffolk Reporter

Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine publicly recognized two 911 dispatchers from the Suffolk County Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services (FRES) for their crucial roles in aiding two families during childbirth. The dispatchers provided essential guidance and assistance before the arrival of first responders on the scene. Both infants are reported to be in good health.

Romaine expressed his admiration for these unsung heroes, stating, “Our first responders deserve to be praised for the risks they take when responding to emergencies, but it is just as important to recognize the life-saving efforts of our dispatchers who serve as the first line of defense.” He commended the two dispatchers for their heroism and their role in ensuring the safe delivery of two healthy babies.

On May 15, FRES dispatcher John Spiciati received a call from a distressed resident of Great River. Spiciati's professionalism allowed the caller to follow emergency medical instructions effectively. Two minutes into the call, a baby was born. Spiciati confirmed an airway and provided post-dispatch instructions that helped tie off the umbilical cord without complications. The newborn was subsequently transported by Exchange Ambulance of Islips to Good Samaritan Hospital.

The following day, FRES dispatcher Christine Springer responded to a 911 call from Huntington Station. The caller reported her cousin was having contractions and soon after revealed that the baby's head was presenting. Springer calmly guided the caller through delivering the child while providing emergency medical instructions. She ensured that the baby boy was breathing and instructed how to clear his mouth and nose and wrap him in a clean towel.

FRES Commissioners Patrick Beckley and Rudy Sunderman expressed pride in their team, saying “Suffolk County Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services is very proud of the Emergency Service Dispatchers who serve our community 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. We congratulate our emergency service dispatchers on a job well done.”

This marks the fourth instance in 2024 where Suffolk County FRES dispatchers have provided instruction for baby deliveries. Earlier this year, ESD Adrian Pezzica guided the delivery of a healthy baby girl in January, and ESD Peter Montague assisted with a phone-in delivery of a baby girl in April.