Fake firefighter nabbed after trying to fight fire

[March 17, 2009]  SUFFERN, N.Y. (AP) -- Police arrested a man for impersonating a New York City firefighter after he tried to help battle a warehouse blaze in the suburbs.

Suffern police and fire officials said that the 39-year-old man was dressed in full New York City Fire Department gear, including a jacket, pants and a helmet with his name on it.

Volunteer Fire Department Battalion Chief Michael Stark said he asked the man what he was doing at the Feb. 5 fire. He said it seemed "kind of bizarre."

Protocol states that non-departmental firefighters must get permission to assist from a commander.

Police said the man was arrested after an investigation revealed he was not a firefighter.

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Information from: The Journal News, http://www.thejournalnews.com/

[Associated Press]

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