Man arrested for posing as NY firefighter during blaze

The Associated Press

SUFFERN, NY — 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.

Full story: Police arrest man for impersonating a NY firefighter after he tried to help battle blaze