On July 26th at 8:47 a.m., as temperatures were climbing towards the 90's, volunteers of the East Meadow Fire Department were alerted to a report of a Building Fire at the Kabayan Grill at 1634 Front Street. Additional 911 information over the radio advised that employees state the building is on fire.
Just three minutes into the alarm Engine 612 radioed their response along with Chief James Walsh, and his Asst Chiefs Paul Kosiba, Peter Cheswick, and Phil Fertitta. Once on scene, Chief Walsh radioed "Smoke Showing" a typical terms that gives a heads up to responders of the work ahead. A short time later, Chief Walsh upgraded the alarm to a Signal 98 (First pumper in connects to a fire hydrant and stretches (2) attack hose lines to the front door). The Signal 98 also upgraded the alarm adding Engine 613, Engine 614, and Rescue 615, filling out East Meadow's General alarm assignment.