Flanders Fire Department elects new chief

The Flanders Fire Department’s newly-elected chief sat alone in his office before members arrived for a meeting, tending to duties most people don’t realize are such a big part of every fire department.

“The chief’s office, there’s a lot of managerial work, which I didn’t expect at first…I didn’t realize what took place inside this office itself,” said Joe Petit, 42, of Bayview Pines as a printer hummed behind him.

Petit is a 10-year veteran of the Flanders Fire Department who moved up the ranks until his election as chief Jan. 7. The Eastport native moved to Bayview Pines 12 years ago, where he now lives with his wife Laura, son Patrick, 13, and step-son Montagne, 21.

When he’s not following Patrick to his lacrosse and football games, he’s at the firehouse, he said.

Petit said his leadership style is one that honors the close relationships he said the 50 department members have with one another. While several local departments have more than 100 members – Riverhead has more than 200 – Flanders has a bit of a different dynamic because of its size, he said. When he disciplines someone – “which I never like to do” – there’s no ill will when he walks out of the chief’s office.

“It’s like a family, it really is. When I moved here and joined the fire department, I joined to serve the community, but I made a lot of friends real quick. When they say “brothers and sisters,” this department really, really is that,” Petit said.

Petit said one trait he thinks he brings to his new role is a keen eye for safety. During calls he’s constantly scanning the scene for hazardous conditions and speaking up, he said.

Petit is an electrician by trade and has a background in construction, which gives him an understanding of buildings and mechanics that’s a big plus for someone tasked with responding to situations where buildings’ structural integrity and other details can present issues.

For Petit, joining the department at 32 was a continuation of his father’s years as a volunteer fireman. He likes the rush, and he likes helping people.

“If you can help others, you help them,” he said.

Elected to first assistant chief was J.J. Lennon, who was on vacation and not available for comment.

John Manzella, 54, was elected second assistant chief. His father, Sal, was a fireman for more than 40 years and his brother Charles has been for 25 years, now a member of the Wading River Fire Department. Both had stints as chiefs.

Manzella joined in 1993. This is his highest rank yet, having served as a captain and a lieutenant.

“I’m looking forward to serving the community,” he said.