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AUGUST, 2018
THREE ALARMS STRUCK AT TORRINGTON STRUCTURE FIRE
Torrington, CT - At 8:11 A.M. on July 21st, Torrington firefighters responded to a central station alarm with one engine and a Battalion Chief.
JOSEPH A. MCELROY
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August, 2018
MAINE
Advertising Index
A guide to finding great companies
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FDIC
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Fireflow Services, Inc.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
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Firehouse Expo Firematic
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Mid Atlantic Rescue
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The Foreside Station, AKA Station 1, is first-due to Casco Bay. Engine 1 is located here. It is staffed by two live-in students from Southern Maine Community College. They are backed up by eight call firefighters. On the west side of the town is
There was a Station 3, once home to the Pleasant Hill Fire Co., but it was closed in 2009. The building has since been sold.
This department has the distinction of purchasing the first new Sutphen apparatus. Previously, only used apparatus from this manufacturer found their way to Maine. Since that purchase in 2010 all of their suppression units have come from the Ohio company. Hopefully that trend continues when the department replaces Tank 4 in a couple of years.
Engine 1 - 2010 Sutphen Shield 2 Pumper.
CHUCK LOWE
Engine 2 - 2013 Sutphen S6 Rescue Pumper.
CHUCK LOWE
Engine 4 - 2017 Sutphen S2 Pumper.
CHUCK LOWE
Tank 4 - 1992 Autocar/E-One Tanker.
CHUCK LOWE
Thank you to Chief Rice, Lt. Tooker and the other members of FFD for their assistance with this article. - CHUCK LOWE
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Zodiac
Central Station houses a Rescue Pumper, Tower Ladder and three ambulances, along with various support vehicles including a boat. There are four full-time staff who work during the day along with per-diem staffing for the first medic unit 24/7. Both are firefighters, with one paramedic and one EMT being the norm. Twenty-five call firefighters are assigned to Central. All units assigned here carry the number 2.
Station 4. It's home to an Engine and the department's Tanker, which is known as "The Mother of all Fire Apparatus". This house is staffed by four live-in students and 15 call members.
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Waterous
Yankee Equipment
The town of Falmouth is located just north of Portland, Maine. It has a population of over 11,000 residents located within its 36square-miles. The town is protected by a combination department that operates out of three stations.
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WEH Technologies
If you have photos you would like to see in our Department Profiles feature please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
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Spotted Dog Technologies Utility Communications
DEPARTMENT PROFILES
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45
20
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Chief Rice & Lt. Tooker with their new Tower Ladder.
CHUCK LOWE
Tower 2 - 2017 Sutphen SP95 95' Quint.
CHUCK LOWE
CORPORATE INFORMATION
1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New England edition - Vol. 22, No.8 - is published monthly, 12 times a year for $36 per year by Belsito Communications, Inc., 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. Periodicals Postage Paid at Newburgh, NY and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. No financial responsibility is assumed by this newspaper to publish a display, classified, or legal ad or for typographical errors except of reprinting that part of the ad which was omitted or in error. Omissions A division of: or errors must be brought to the attention of the newspaper during the same month of publication. Printed in Canada.
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August, 2018
MAINE
Working Fire Destroys Two Barns at Fryeburg Fairgrounds Fryeburg, ME - The Fryeburg Fire Dept. was alerted for a structure fire at 1154 Main St., the Fryeburg Fairgrounds, around 7:00 P.M. on July 10th. Companies arrived to find two 30’x150’ barns JUMP TO FILE# well involved with 071418105 multiple exposures. Two aerials and multiple hand lines were used to knock down the flames, as well as tankers that supplied water to the scene. The fire is said to have started in a sheep barn due to an electrical malfunction before spreading to an adjacent cattle shed. A total of seven exposure buildings suffered damage from the fire. Fryeburg was assisted by more than 20 mutual aid departments from Maine and New Hampshire. Damage is estimated to be around $500,000. The fall fair is still expected to go as planned. - JIM FORTIN
Both barns were fully involved on arrival.
JIM FORTIN JR
PATCH OF THE MONTH
IN SERVICE
If you have photos you would like to see in our “Patch of the Month” feature please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
If you have photos you would like to see in our “In Service” feature please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
EUGENE WEBER JR.
This patch belongs to Cushing Fire Department, located in Knox County, Maine.
Harrison, Maine Fire Dept. runs this 2017 Pierce Saber 1500/1000 as Engine 3.
JIM FORTIN JR
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August, 2018
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
DRILLS/TRAINING
To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
NFD
Structure Fire Damages Apartments on Main St. in Norwalk Norwalk, CT - At approximately 2:30 A.M. on July 5th, the Norwalk Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 61 Main Street. Upon arrival heavy smoke was coming from the variety store of the strip mall. After an initial attack, crews made entry and heavy fire was reported to the rear of the variety store and extinguished rapidly. The fire was initially reported to be stacks of magazines and newspapers, but further investigation revealed that fire had extended into the walls and ceiling of the building. The roof of the structure was opened, at which point heavy smoke and heat came from the skylights, allowing a section of fire that had not been visible before to become visible. The additional fire was extinguished by attacking from the rear of the building by one engine company, and in the front of the building by another engine company. Once extinguishment was complete, ventilation was set up and the building was metered for toxic gases with high readings of carbon monoxide found in the apartments above. Additional ventilation for the apartments was per-
JUMP TO FILE #070918108 formed. Overall was completed and the fire scene was turned over to the fire prevention bureau for investigation. Fire suppression was completed using five engine companies, two ladder companies, one rescue company, one assistant chief, one command car, one safety officer and two fire inspectors, for a total of 37 fire personnel on scene. Crews were rotated as frequently as possible out of concern for heat and humidity. Additionally, station coverage was provided by the Westport, New Canaan and Rowayton Fire Departments while Norwalk units were operating on the fire ground. Two upstairs apartments were evacuated at the onset of the fire. Two firefighters were treated on scene, with one firefighter being transported to the hospital for a knee injury, and the other for dehydration, who later returned to duty after treatment.
The Woodstock Volunteer Fire Association provided fire coverage during the drill. The Woodstock Support Team was activated and provided refreshments and lunch for all participants of the drill.
According to Dick Baron, Fire Captain of the Muddy Brook FD, the scope of the drill was a practical exercise for Operational Level firefighters for the departments listed in setting up and working a 3 station decon line and interacting with the Cerrit
teams as it would be if a “Level 1” request was made for the eastern regional technician teams to respond to an incident. Captain Baron noted that the interaction between all of the departments and the Cerrit teams was seamless.
The Cerrit team members assisted the Operational Level firefighters in the various roles they played along with the I.C. in controlling a hazmat incident. The technician level Cerrit members also had their own training in practicing putting a leaking drum in an overpak in the back of a tractor-trailer box in Level “A” suits.
Other highlights of the drill included a walk around of a chemical trailer, identifying features such as loading and off-loading connections, emergency shutoff valves and compartments for this type of trailer. Firefighters looked at drums and totes in a box trailer as to how they are secured and the proper way of un-securing them from the box trailer and practicing responding to a hazmat call for an unknown odor in the facility.
Captain Baron expressed his thanks to the Rogers Corporation for allowing them to use their facility for this type of drill. “Rogers Corporation has been a strong supporter of the fire department for the last 20 years in allowing us to use their facility for drills and for adding firefighter safety enhancements in the plant”.
According to Captain Baron, the need for Cerrit specialized hazmat technicians and the Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection (DEEP) to respond to an incident is critical, especially during the day when the volunteer sector is most vulnerable, providing much needed resources and knowledge to handle and mitigate a hazardous materials incident. The Northeast Region Cerrit Response Teams include Muddy Brook FD, Community FD, Bungay Fire Brigade, Quinebaug Vol. FD, Willimantic FD, Norwich FD and UConn FD. Additional resources are also available from the South Eastern Regional Cerrit Teams as well.
- TODD SMITH
Serving g those who se erve us. HeroesMortgagePrograam.com
Woodstock, CT – The Muddy Brook FD hosted a Northeast Regional Hazmat Drill on June 10th. The drill took place at the Rogers Corp. facility located at 245 Woodstock Rd. in East Woodstock. Multiple volunteer fire departments participated in the drill, including Muddy Brook FD, Bungay Fire Brigade, Community FD, Quinebaug Vol. FD, Webster FD from Massachusetts and the Woodstock EMS ambulance crew. The regional Connecticut Eastern Region Response Integrated Team (CERRIT) technician level teams from UConn FD and Norwich FD also participated.
87 77-541-HERO
UConn & Norwich hazmat techs getting ready for Level "A" entry.
D. BARON
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
August, 2018
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August, 2018
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In memory of those who gave all
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
1st Responder Newspaper honors and remembers emergency responders lost in the line of duty
West Virginia: Michael Edwards, 46 Rank: Assistant Fire Chief Incident Date: March 24, 2018 Death Date: March 24, 2018 Fire Department: Pratt Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: Assistant Fire Chief Michael Edwards and Lieutenant Tom Craigo were killed and three other firefighters were injured when, for a cause still under investigation, the apparatus they were in left the narrow roadway and crashed into a rock wall. At the time, the firefighters were responding to a multiple fatality motor vehicle crash on the West Virginia Turnpike. Of the three firefighters injured, Fire Chief Timothy Walker remains in the hospital in critical condition; Firefighter Billy Hypes is in stable condition; and Firefighter Kyle Jenkins was released with minor injuries.
at a private residence in Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin. Firefighter-Paramedic Garner was treated at the scene by the local EMS and transported to the hospital where he passed away from a nature and cause of fatal injury still to be determined.
Wisconsin: Richard L. Garner Jr., 29 Rank: Firefighter-Paramedic Incident Date: April 1, 2018 Death Date: April 1, 2018 Fire Department: Madison Fire Department Initial Summary: Firefighter-Paramedic Richard L. Garner Jr. completed a 48 hour shift at 0700hrs on April 1, 2018, during which he responded to nineteen emergency calls. Later that day, between the times of 1200hrs and 1300hrs, Garner collapsed
Texas: Bernard Olive, 68 Rank: Assistant Fire Chief Incident Date: April 5, 2018 Death Date: April 5, 2018 Fire Department: Baytown Fire Department Initial Summary: Assistant Fire Chief Bernard Olive passed away while on duty from a nature and cause of fatal injury still to be determined.
Texas: Larry Marusik, 68 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: March 10, 2018 Death Date: March 23, 2018 Fire Department: Ellinger Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: The Caldwell County Office of Emergency Management has reported the death of Firefighter Larry Marusik. Firefighter Marusik passed away at the Brooke Army Medical Center on March 23, 2018, from injuries sustained while battling a large grass fire on March 10, 2018.
Minnesota: Timothy Wayne Royce, 58 Rank: Second Assistant Fire Chief Incident Date: March 29, 2018 Death Date: March 30, 2018 Fire Department: Mapleton Fire Department Initial Summary: Second Assistant Fire Chief Timothy Wayne Royce died from an apparent heart attack on March 30, 2018, several hours after responding with his fire department to a motor vehicle crash and a medical call, as well as participating in fire department training at the station.
Texas: Caleb Scott, 29 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: April 3, 2018 Death Date: April 3, 2018 Fire Department: North Richland Hills Fire Rescue Initial Summary: Firefighter Caleb Scott suffered a reported heart attack while at his fire station on the morning of April 3, 2018. Fellow responders immediately came to his aid at the firehouse before transporting him to Medical City North Hills Hospital, where Firefighter Scott later succumbed to his injury.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
August, 2018
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August, 2018
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
Three Alarms Struck at Torrington Structure Fire Torrington, CT - At 8:11 A.M. on July 21st, Torrington firefighters responded to a central station alarm with one engine and a Battalion Chief. The police arrived and reported heavy fire showing. JUMP TO FILE# Battalion Chief 072118100 Kevin Engle struck three alarms. No one was home at the time of the fire and there were no injuries reported. Mutual aid was called in for RIT and rehab. - JOSEPH MCELROY
Heavy fire on arrival.
Making the stretch.
JOSEPH A. MCELROY
JOSEPH A. MCELROY
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
August, 2018
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
PATCH OF THE MONTH If you have photos you would like to see in our “Patch of the Month� feature please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
Firefighters found this two-bay garage heavily involved in fire upon arrival.
DC BERNIE MEEHAN
Danbury Responds to Early Morning Garage Fire
EUGENE WEBER JR.
The patch of the Connecticut Air National Guard Fire Department, located in Hartford County, CT.
Danbury, CT - On June 24th shortly after 8:00 A.M., as units were doing their morning truck and equipment checks, a large explosion was heard in the distance by firefighters. Within seconds, the tones would sound with an answer as to what it was. A reported garage fire at 16 Fairlawn Avenue was announced by dispatch. This is over a mile away from HQ, so responding units knew that if they had heard the explosion from HQ, it was certainly a fire. Car 30 (DC Meehan) arrived
JUMP TO FILE #062418123 first and found a two-bay garage heavily involved in fire. The tenant informed firefighters that he had a glass blowing operation in the building, and it contained propane and oxygen tanks. Engine 22 was first-due and stretched a one-andthree-quarter inch line to the fire building behind the main house. This street does not have fire hydrants, so as tankers were responding, Engines 23 and 26 lined
up to give Engine 22 their tank water. As Tanker 12 arrived to feed the fire attack, Engines 4 and 8 went to Edgewood Street, which is parallel to Fairlawn, and handjacked a supply line from a hydrant there, across backyards to Tanker 12 to secure a water supply. The fire was knocked down in fairly short order and the Danbury Fire Marshal's Office is investigating. Danbury EMS stood by and there were no injuries reported. - BERNIE MEEHAN
Vehicle News
MICHAEL CARENZA JR
House Fire Displaces Two Families in New Britain New Britain, CT - A fire that started on the second-floor exterior at the rear of 56 Sandy Brook Drive on June 26th left two families displaced. The fire spread up into the attic before firefighters quickly extinguished it. The cause is under investigation.
CHUCK LOWE
Manchester received its second Marion pumper this spring and assigned it to Engine 4. The apparatus is on a Spartan Gladiator chassis with a 2000-GPM pump and a 500-gallon water tank.
August, 2018
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
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August, 2018
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
HE HE ER ERO EROES ROES RO OES ES INK INK
1st Responder Newspape er features EMERGENCY SERVICES RELA ATED TATTOOS
KARIN M. HALSTEAD
RV Fire in Newtown Shuts Down I-84 During Evening Commute
This tattoo was sent in by Parker Griffith from Georgia. When asked what inspired him to get it, he had this to say: "It was fall of 2008 and I decided to take the challenge of completing the Georgia Smoke Diver program, one of the toughest programs in the nation. There are only about 1,000 people who have completed the program since 1978 when it first started. I trained for a year at 40-years-old and made it. If you go to the website (www.georgiasmokediver.com), you can read all about what it means to accomplish this feat. I got back home and wanted a reminder of the hard work and satisfaction I got from this class, so Midnight Iguana in Athens, Georgia drew the tattoo up and I had it done. The bulldog is "Uga", the official mascot of the University of Georgia Bulldogs. I live near there and I'm a huge dog fan. If you pass the challenge, you get a lifetime number; mine is 696, given to me as I came through the last obstacle. FIDO is a military acronym that stands for 'Forget It, Drive On'. The program is a week of hell, but will change the attitude of a good fireman to one of a great fireman. This class doesn't make a great fireman, it makes a good fireman better."
Newtown, CT - Sandy Hook Fire & Rescue along with Newtown Hook & Ladder Fire Company were dispatched at 5:47 P.M. on July 19th to the area of I-84 east between the Exit 11 off and on ramps for a reported RV fire. Chief Bill Halstead arrived on scene, confirmed the RV fire and took command. Sandy Hook Engine 441 and crew attacked the RV from the front, while the Hook &
JUMP TO FILE #072018101 Ladder Engine 111 and crew attacked from the side. A propane tank exploded while crews worked on scene. Sandy Hook had a second engine on scene as well at two tankers. Over 5,000-gallons of water was used to extinguish the fire.
The RV was a 2003 Gulf Stream and the sole occupant, a male driver, was heading out of town for a vacation when he noticed his brakes fail and smoke coming from the engine, so he pulled over. The incident caused the closure of I-84 for a duration of time. Sandy Hook cleared the scene at 6:55 P.M. - KARIN HALSTEAD
WHERE ARE THEY NOW?
If you have photos you would like to see in our “Where Are They Now?� feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
Would you like your emergency services related tattoo featured here? Contact Lindsey at
Lindsey@1strespondernews.com
CHUCK LOWE
The West Thompson Fire Department purchased a 1990 Pierce Lance Pumper-Tanker a few years ago. It has a 2000-GPM pump, 3000-gallon water tank and 90-gallon class 'B' foam tank. It is designated Tanker 182 by the agency. The apparatus previously served the Cochranville Fire Company of Chester County, Pennsylvania with the designation of Engine Co. 27-5. It ran there for 25 years before finding a new home in Connecticut.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
August, 2018
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August, 2018
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
OLD & NEW If you have photos you would like to see in our “Old & New� feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
Manchester Engine 5 was operating a 2006 American LaFrance Metropolitan 1500-GPM pumper with 750-gallons of water and 20gallons of foam until 2016 when it was replaced with a new Spartan Gladiator built by Marion. The replacement apparatus has a 2000GPM pump and 500-gallon water tank. The department abandoned its KFC color scheme when the new Engine 5 was delivered in a more traditional "all red".
Engine 5's 2006 ALF Rig.
Engine 5's 2016 Spartan/Marion Rig.
CHUCK LOWE
CHUCK LOWE
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
August, 2018
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August, 2018
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
Danbury Crews Fight Third-Alarm House Fire Danbury, CT - At 6:39 A.M. on June 22nd the tones were sounded alerting the Danbury Fire Department to a structure fire at 120 Triangle Street, the Delta Court Condominiums. While responding, dispatch JUMP TO FILE# notified units that 062318101 the report was flames and smoke showing, and that everyone was reported out of the building. Car 30 (DC Meehan) was first to arrive, finding fire running from the second rear deck up to
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the soffit and into the attic. He immediately requested a SecondAlarm, along with Bethel's Tower Ladder to be dispatched. Engine 23 then arrived with Lt. Doug Zaniewski who deployed a twoand-a-half inch line to wash the exterior fire down and slow its progress into the attic area. Fortuitously, there was a hydrant 20-feet from Engine 23, so they made their own water. With the fire gaining ground in the attic, DC Meehan decided that a transitional attack would be mounted. The complex is made up of two buildings, with the fire building being an "L" shaped, three-story, seven-unit complex of about 8,000-square-feet. Truck 1, with Captain Rob Forbes, backed into the tight driveway and deployed the Tower above the fire. Truck 1 was fed by Engine 24 who also found a hydrant that was no more than 50feet from Truck 1. Squad 1 and Engine 22 were the next to arrive and stretched a line into the "L" corner unit to put up a stand to cut the fire off. The Third-Alarm was transmitted around this time. The fire came in at shift change, so additional manpower was readily available. Lt Jonathan DeJoseph, having just been relieved on Squad 1, grabbed three firefighters and responded with Truck 2. Truck 2 backed into the driveway directly in front of Truck 1, with the idea to cut off the fire if Truck 1 didn't stop it. Engine 26 laid yet another five-inch supply line from a hydrant to Truck 2. The fire had a full grip on the attic area above four of the units, and Truck 1 did an incredible job knocking the flames down. Truck 2 laddered the space between the "L" and opened the roof in the 'cricket' in between. By the time they opened that up, Lt. Cabral and E22 had pushed back the fire that was breaching the fire wall. The Bethel Tower Ladder arrived and backed in by Truck 2. They were placed as a precaution, but the fire was knocked down and their Aerial services were not required. Other fire units that assisted with various functions were Danbury Squad 7, Engine 5 and Engine 3. Deputy Chief Joe Halas (Car 33) responded within the first few moments and operated as the Division C/D Operations Chief. Danbury EMS provided two ambulances and a Medic Unit for the scene, checking on two evacuated residents, performing Rehab, and transporting one firefighter who experienced a minor medical issue. He was treated and released. The Danbury Fire Marshal's Office is investigating the cause and origin of the fire. - BERNIE MEEHAN
Firefighters prepare hose lines as Truck 1 hits the fire.
Drone shot showing the fire stop.
PROVIDED
DFD AERIAL OPERATIONS
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
August, 2018
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
August, 2018
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eLEND joins Heroes Mortgage Program to offer down payment assistance for heroes
For many Americans, funding the down payment necessary to realize a dream of home ownership simply is not possible; and squirreling away the dollars to do so on a limited budget could mean several years of renting and waiting to buy a house. In some cases, first responders and other community service employees have trouble affording homes in the areas where they work. With a purchase as big as buying a home, a little help can go a long way. The Advantage Program, introduced to the Heroes Mortgage platform by eLEND, helps hometown heroes like police officers, volunteer and paid firefighters, EMS workers, medical professionals and educators purchase a home within the community where they work, even in high-cost areas. The unique down payment assistance program was specifically designed for those who make a difference in other people’s lives, as well as first time home buyers. “The Heroes Mortgage platform helps connect members of the emergency services community with lenders that are specifically interested in working with them,” said Joseph P. Belsito, publisher of 1st Responder Newspaper. “The Advantage Program created by eLEND is exactly what makes the Heroes Mortgage Pro-
“We’re excited to introduce our Advantage Program to the Heroes Mortgage platform. It’s our way of trying to help hometown heroes advance their dreams of home ownership.”
- BILL PACKER Executive Vice President eLEND
gram a valuable resource for heroes in our community looking for home financing.” Grant provides help to homebuyers Many buyers wait patiently on the sidelines, saving money and watching interest rates rise. Unlike many other home buying assistance programs, eLEND’s Advantage Program provides a grant for the down pay-
ment. These resources can immediately build a borrower’s buying power, helping them act on a purchase more quickly for either that first home, or a move-up home as the family has grown and needs more space. Qualified buyers can receive grants up to 2% of the purchase price, minimizing the
down payment dollars needed at closing. The grant is “forgivable” so it doesn’t have to be paid back, and there are no resale or borrower repayment restrictions. In the state of Wisconsin, appraisal cost (up to $700) is credited back at closing. This program is not yet available in Hawaii or Washington. To qualify, a borrower need only meet one of the following very flexible requirements: a current, retired, volunteer or professional first responder (police officer, firefighter, paramedic, emergency medical technician, etc.), educator, medical personnel, civil servant or military personnel, or a first-time homebuyer or meet certain income requirements. “We’re excited to introduce our Advantage Program to the Heroes Mortgage platform,” said Bill Packer, executive vice president of eLEND, a division of American Financial Resources, Inc. “It’s our way of trying to help hometown heroes advance their dreams of home ownership.” For more information or to check your eligibility for The Advantage Program, visit www.heroesmortgage.com/AdvantageProgram or call 877-541-HERO.
For more information or to check your eligibility for The Advantage Program, visit www.heroesmortgage.com/AdvantageProgram or call 877-541-HERO.
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August, 2018
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
Two Families Displaced by House Fire in New Britain New Britain, CT - A twoalarm fire displaced two families at 642 Allen Street in New Britain on June 22nd. Firefighters arrived on scene around 4:50 A.M. with fire showing at the rear of a two-story JUMP TO FILE# wood-frame and 062318117 quickly called for a second-alarm. Firefighters knocked down the fire on the back porch and wall area very quickly before it worked it's way into the attic. The cause of the fire is under investigation. - MICHAEL CARENZA JR
Firefighters wetting down the back of 642 Allen St.
MICHAEL CARENZA JR
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
August, 2018
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CONNECTICUT
BUDDY SHOTS
If you have photos you would like to see in our “Buddy Shots” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
DC BERNIE MEEHAN
Danbury CT Engine 23 'D' Platoon members, (L to R): FF Jeff Perkins, Lt. Doug Zaniewski, and FF Ken Stilson III.
STILL IN SERVICE
If you have photos you would like to see in our “Still in Service” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
Colchester and Mohegan Tribal Firefighters man the hose line.
RYAN FLAHERTY
Fully Involved Fire Destroys Barn in Bozrah Bozrah, CT - At 8:45 A.M. on Thursday, June 28th, right after a strong thunderstorm went through the area, the Bozrah Fire Department, with automatic aid from Mohegan Tribal FAST, Colchester Ladder 128, Tanker 128, Yantic Engines 31 and 32, as well as Salem, Gardner Lake and Lebanon's tankers responded to 144 Bashon Hill Road for a barn fire. Ladder 126 arrived to find a
JUMP TO FILE #070218128 barn fully involved. The crew from Ladder 126 stretched a oneand-three-quarter inch hose line to the front of the building, which collapsed shortly after arrival. Tanker 126 arrived next and fed the ladder. Engine 126 was thirddue and laid a supply line down the long driveway.
Yantic Engine 32 became the drop site engine and pumped water up to the fire. Engine 31 drafted from a dry hydrant on Bashon Hill and filled the tankers. Once a water supply was established, Bozrah's ladder pipe was utilized. There were no injuries and the Bozrah Fire Marshal's Office is investigating. - RYAN FLAHERTY
CHUCK LOWE
Fifty Five and going strong! Scotland Connecticut's Service 116 is a 1963 Dodge Power Wagon 4x4 brush truck. It has a 125-GPM pump and carries 200-gallons of water.
Join the Heroes Team! Becoming part of the Heroes team KDV LWV EHQH¿WV &RQWDFW XV WR OHDUQ PRUH DERXW EHFRPLQJ D +HURHV &HUWL¿HG DJHQW info@HeroesRealty.com
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877-541-HERO Ladder 126 hitting the burning rubble with the ladder pipe.
RYAN FLAHERTY
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August, 2018
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
VENDOR SPOTLIGHT
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PGI Announces the Introduction of FireLine Multi Mission Dual Certified Garments
CHUCK LOWE
MedFlight Needed for Injured Tree Worker in Acton
Acton, MA - Acton Fire Department responded to Baxter Road on July 17th for a male tree worker in his 40's that fell approximately 15-feet. After arriving and assessing the patient Engine 26 requested Boston MedFlight and an additional Engine to secure a Landing Zone at the Douglas Elementary School. AFD Paramedics from Rescue 34 worked to stabilize the patient before transferring care to the MedFlight crew.
K. LEGER
Small Electrical Fire Extinguished in Fall River
Fall River, MA - At approximately 11:35 A.M. on July 19th, firefighters responded to 29 Sixteenth Street for an investigation of a possible electrical fire. Firefighters were called after a contractor preparing to work on the property somehow made contact with the primary service drop to the home. When firefighters arrived the wood beneath the vinyl siding was smoldering. Members began removing the siding to search for the source of the smoke and overhaul the area to extinguish any remaining fire. Units were on scene for over an hour to complete the investigation.
Firefighters and departments are trained and prepared to respond to a wide variety of situations involving fires, explosions, rescues, medical emergencies, hazardous conditions and natural disasters. They also respond to nonemergency service calls, good intent calls and false alarms. Less than 10% of fire department runs actually involve fire. EMS and rescue, good intent, false alarm and incident calls account for about 90% of all reported runs. These brave men and women need to be equipped with the proper PPE for their range of operations. PGI, Inc. is proud to introduce FireLine™ Multi Mission dual certified garments — innovative designs for more of what you do.
The number one fatality in line of duty deaths among firefighters and first responders is sudden cardiac arrest, most of which can be attributed to heat stress, overexertion and pre-existing medical conditions. Studies have shown that modified PPE can substantially reduce heat stress and firefighter fatigue. FireLine Multi Mission PPE is lighter weight, more flexible and better ergonomically designed than traditional turnout gear — reducing heat stress and overall firefighter fatigue.
FireLine Multi Mission garments are engineered to maximize protection, comfort and mobility at a price that’s about one-third the cost of traditional turnout gear. FireLine Multi Mission apparel is engineered for the work you do with proven FR fabrics offering the best combination of flash fire, thermal protection and abrasion resistance in a singlelayer garment. FireLine Multi Mission tech rescue gear features articulated elbows and knees, generous gusseting, radial sleeves and anatomical patterning providing unrivaled freedom of movement. High quality construction and an array of options allows for truly custom gear, so firefighters will have the right gear for the right job. The FireLine Multi Mission line offers first responders peace-of-mind protection with enhanced comfort and
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need.”
Jim Sonntag, President, PGI, stated, “At PGI, our drive and relentless commitment to meticulous craftsmanship and service is paramount and we are committed to leading the way in the design and manufacture of high performance PPE. We pride ourselves in employing the most advanced materials and premium accessories, allowing us to create technical products that can be trusted to perform in the most extreme conditions.” Sonntag went on to say, “Our philosophy is to design and manufacture products that are as good as they can possibly be, performing over time and beyond expectation at the point of extreme
About PGI: As a market leader in technology driven personal protective apparel, PGI designs and manufactures innovative garments for firefighters, EMS, police, military and industrial professionals the world over. The PGI line of high performance products includes Cobra™, Cobra™ NextGen™ and Cobra BarriAire™ Gold Hoods, FireLine™ and FireLine Multi Mission gear, and DriGuard™ FR Base Layer garments. Rooted in America’s heartland, Green Lake, Wisconsin, PGI products meet or exceed all applicable industry standards.
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PGI, INC.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
August, 2018
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August, 2018
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
STILL IN SERVICE
If you have photos you would like to see in our “Still in Service� feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
Staff from Boston MedFlight bring the patient to the awaiting helicopter.
Serious Crash in East Bridgewater Requires MedFlight East Bridgewater, MA - Just after 11:00 A.M. on the morning of Tuesday, July 10th, the East Bridgewater Fire Department responded to the area of 1300 Plymouth Street for a reported JUMP TO FILE # motor vehicle acci- 071118105 dent. Companies arrived to find a 10wheel dump truck on its side, and a small pickup truck with heavy damage. The occupant of the dump truck was able to self-extricate, but the operator of the pickup truck was pinned in the vehicle. Mutual aid and Boston MedFlight was requested to respond. A Bridgewater engine was requested to the scene to assist in extrication, while a Whitman engine was requested to secure the landing zone at the Compass
Visit
Medical building on Route-18. Once the victim was extricated, they were transported to the landing zone where Boston MedFlight was waiting. The trapped victim was flown to Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston. Two children in the vehicle were transported to the South Shore Hospital. The cause of the motor vehicle accident is currently under investigation. - PAT TRAVERS
CHUCK LOWE
Ashburnham acquired this 1983 Mack CF/LTI 106' Aerial from the Fort Lauderdale, Florida Fire Department many years ago. It was rehabilitated in 2007 by Wildfire and continues to serve the town well. The Mack turns 35 this year.
CHUCK LOWE
Nahant Fire/Rescue's 1980 Mack-CF continues to serve the town as Engine 32. The apparatus, which carries 750-gallons of water with a 1250-GPM pump, originally worked in East Farmingdale, New York.
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August, 2018
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MASSACHUSETTS
THEN & NOW If your Department has photos you would like to see in our “Then & Now� feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
Cambridge, MA placed a 2017 Pierce Saber PUC Foam Pumper into service on River Street last year. It has a 1250-GPM pump, 500-gallons of water and 200-gallons of class 'B' foam. Prior to this, Engine 3 was the only foam pumper in the city. Many years ago, Engine 6 operated a 1962 Pirsch that also had a 1250-GPM pump and a 500-gallon water tank. During that era, the Pirsch was part of the 2-piece company and ran with a hose wagon. The apparatus was originally an open cab. The department had a roof added during a refurb years later.
Chief Lynch stands before the pavilion during opening remarks.
Engine 6-1962 Pirsch Pumper.
Engine 6-2017 Pierce Saber.
K. LEGER
Park in Fall River Dedicated to Former Fire Chief CHUCK LOWE
Fall River, MA - On June 16th, at the Fire Chief Louis A. Shea Jr. training grounds, a memorial park was dedicated in his memory. Chief Shea joined the department in 1948 where he rose through the ranks to become Chief of the Department in 1977, a position he held until his retirement in 1990. Chief Shea recognized the need to provide emergency medical services to the citizens of the Commonwealth, so along with others from the department they worked
JUMP TO FILE #061618105 to establish a coordinated delivery of emergency medical services to the greater Fall River area. His efforts resulted in the creation of the first fire department operated EMS system in Massachusetts, a service that continues today. Chief Shea also believed in education and to that end was a charter member of the Massachusetts
Fire Training Council. He was also instrumental in creating the Fire Science Program at Bristol Community College where he served as the coordinator of the program until his death in 1998. Many area Chiefs, both past and present, as well as family members, and active and retired members gathered to honor the Chief with the unveiling of the new park. - KENNETH LEGER
CHUCK LOWE
K. LEGER
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
August, 2018
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MASSACHUSETTS
MIKE FULLER
MVA with Rollover Injures One in Kingston Kingston, MA - On June 23rd, Firefighters and Police responded to Route 3 North, located just north of Exit 9, for an MVA with rollover. First arriving units found a vehicle that rolled over the gaurdrail into the woods. One patient was extricated and transported by ground to South Shore Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
MARK GRABOWSKI
Amherst House Fire Displaces Residents Amherst, MA - On the very hot afternoon of Sunday, July 8th, firefighters responded to reports of a house fire in Amherst. Amherst FD was led by Fire Chief Tim Nelson. The cause of the fire is still under investigation. State Fire Marshal Sargent Michael Mazza is the investigator for the state. Two residents were displaced and are staying with relatives. No injuries were reported.
The fire was at 89 Grafton Street.
PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
Blaze Damages Brockton Apartment Building Brockton, MA - Around 12:00 P.M. on the afternoon of Sunday, July 8th, the Brockton Fire Department struck Box-2313 for a reported large outside fire against a building at 89 Grafton Street. Both Engine-5 and JUMP TO FILE# Car-56 reported 071118101 heavy smoke in the distance prior to their arrival. Companies arrived and reported smoke showing from a two-anda-half story wood-frame dwelling, and a working fire was requested. Fire alarm dispatched a Medic unit due to a report of a person having difficulty breathing. Once the heavy fire conditions on the exterior of the house were knocked down, companies went in and began opening up and knocking down the fire inside the apartment building. Most of the damage was reported to be on the third-floor. Crews on-scene not only battled the flames, but also high temperatures. Brewster Ambulance and the Providence Canteen unit provided rehab on the scene. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. Brewster Ambulance transported two people from the scene with minor medical problems. All of the occupants escaped the fire safely. - PAT TRAVERS
PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
The siding on the "B" side exposure was melted from the fire.
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MASSACHUSETTS
APPARATUS IN ACTION If you have photos you would like to see in our Apparatus in Action feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
Brockton Engine-2 is tied to the water supply at the corner of Grafton St. and West Harvard St., next to Box-2313, during a recent structure fire.
JOHN DEFOREST, JR.
Springfield, MA Fire Commissioner BJ Calvi oversees Ladder 8's operations at a recent fire at 95-97 Lebanon Street on June 5th.
HARWICH FIRE DEPT.
Harwich FD Holds Swearing-In Ceremony Harwich, MA - The swearingin of a Captain, a Lieutenant and two new firefighters was the purpose of a ceremony held on July 20th at the Robert A Peterson Firehouse. Retiring Captain John Clarke shared advice and wisdom after 36 years of service with the Town of Harwich. “This is a proud day for all of you. Having family, friends and colleagues here watching you take an oath, the pinning of badges, and taking pictures. It's pretty special,” said Clarke to the firefighters being promoted. Clarke, who finished his last day with the department the day before the ceremony, offered advice to the newly hired and new promoted firefighters with a mix of humor, nostalgia and lots of wisdom that was earned in more than 36 years of service to the Town. Lieutenant Leighanne Smith was sworn in as Captain, while Firefighter Justin White was sworn in as Lieutenant, and Provisional Firefighters Joseph Battista and Andrew Ottino were sworn in as Probationary Firefighters in front of a crowd of Town Officials, fellow firefighters, and family by
JUMP TO FILE #072318119 Town Clerk Anita Doucette. Retired Captain Joe McNeil, a previous Captain of Engine 65, offered a few comments about the history of Group 2/Engine 65 and pointed out that Leighanne was about to enter a select group of leaders that have commanded Group 2, including former Chief Robert “Pete” Peterson, Captain McNeil and Captain John Clarke. The ceremony also included pinning the members with their new badges. Captain Smith was pinned by her husband, Lieutenant Scott Smith of the Yarmouth Fire Department. Lieutenant White was pinned by his father, Lieutenant Glenn White of the Provincetown Fire Department (retired). Firefighters Battista and Ottino were pinned by their mothers, Ruthann Ciccarelli and Cathy Ottino, respectively. In his comments, Chief Clarke talked about the “family with the family”. Every department is broken into shifts and each shift in Harwich is assigned a company. As
the Chief said, “it’s about the number”, and that number is signified by their helmet shield. Following their pinning, Captain Smith was presented with her Captains front for Engine 65; Lieutenant White was presented with his Lieutenants front for Engine 64; and Firefighters Battista and Ottino were given their probationary fronts. Also recognized in the ceremony was Firefighter William Schneeweiss. Bill completed his probationary year with the fire department and was given his permanent shift assignment and presented with his permanent helmet fronts, his “number”. In speaking to the new hires about Leighanne and Justin, Captain Clarke said “the lesson for you two is that Leighanne and Justin came on the Department, settled in, settled down, but didn’t just settle for putting their time in. They have, over their time here, given more than they have taken and like those that have come before us, continue the fine traditions of the Harwich Fire Department.” - HARWICH FIRE DEPT.
Visit our website for more news around JIM FORTIN, JR.
Marlborough Tower 1 operating at the Northborough fourth-alarm in June.
New England! www.1rbn.com
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August, 2018
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MASSACHUSETTS
CHUCK LOWE
Driver Seriously Injured After Crashing Into MIT Memorial
Cambridge, MA - During the early hours of June 14th, a minivan with one occupant took out a tree before crashing into the memorial for slain MIT Police Officer, Sean Collier. Cambridge firefighters responded with MIT police, Professional Ambulance and CPD. Damage to the monument was limited to oil and other fluids that leaked from the vehicle. The driver was transported by Squad 2 medics and PEMS to Mass General with serious injuries.
Abington Tower-1 stretched to the roof.
PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
Quick Knockdown at Abington Working Fire Abington, MA - At around 4:00 P.M. on the hot and humid afternoon of July 10th, the Abington Fire Department responded to 1097 Washington Street for a reported house fire. Companies arrived to find fire showing from the roof vent of an occupied one-and-a-half story woodframe dwelling. A working fire was requested, bringing in mutual aid from Rockland and Whitman to the
JUMP TO FILE #071118106 scene, and a Holbrook engine for coverage. The fire was quickly knocked down with a hand line. Companies in Tower-1 opened up the roof area on the "B" side of the building to check for extension. The Holbrook engine was requested to the scene,
and a Hanson engine was moved up to station coverage. An Avon ambulance responded to the scene for a stand by due to the hot temperatures. The Whitman CERT Rehab unit also responded. No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but it is believed that a fan in the attic may have caused the blaze. - PAT TRAVERS
PATCH OF THE MONTH If you have photos you would like to see in our “Patch of the Month� feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
PETER LOBO
Blaze Destroys Shed and Contents in East Falmouth
EUGENE WEBER JR.
The patch of Dartmouth Fire District #3, located in Bristol County, MA.
Falmouth, MA - Falmouth Fire received a call for a structure fire at 57 Edgewater Drive around 9:45 A.M. on July 12th. Calls were received reporting heavy smoke showing in the sky. Engines 21, 24 and 25, along with Ladder 26 responded. Engine 25 reported a large shed fully involved. Engine 25 took a hydrant and ran it to the fire. They first contained the exposure to the house and then proceeded with extinguishing the shed, jet ski and woods. The fire was knocked down and overhauled within one hour.
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MASSACHUSETTS
DEPARTMENT PROFILES If you have photos you would like to see in our Department Profiles feature please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
Walpole firefighters moved into their new firehouse in early June. The state-of-the-art facility features six drive-through bays and living accommodations for their 34 career fire personnel and office staff. It's built on the same lot that was used for their two previous headquarters stations.
construction the During process, which took just 13
months, the department operated out of a tent and trailers that were located adjacent to the site. That temporary facility has since been vacated.
They continue to house a single Mack-CF pumper at their substation which is manned during Patriots games and other special events. All other apparatus have been moved into the new station. Companies encountered heavy fire conditions on arrival.
PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
Second-Alarm Tears Through Rockland Oil Company
Walpole Fire Headquarters.
CHUCK LOWE
Rockland, MA - Just after 3:00 A.M. on the morning of Monday, July 23rd, the Rockland Fire Department responded to a reported building fire at 265 Plain Street, the Kelliher Brothers Oil Company. Companies arrived to find heavy fire showing from the one-story commercial building, with live wires down in the street. A second-alarm was immediately requested, bringing in mutual aid companies to the scene. National Grid was also requested to respond immediately. Companies laid lines from hydrants on either side of the street to engines work-
JUMP TO FILE #072418105 ing the fire. Large hand lines and a deck gun were placed into operation. Mutual aid engine companies pumped the hydrants on either end of the street to supply additional water pressure to the companies working on-scene. Crews were able to knock down the heavy fire conditions within approximately 15 minutes, and remained on-scene for an extended time overhauling and checking for extension.
The State Fire Marshal's Office was requested to the scene to aid in the investigation of the fire. Later that day, the Fire Marshal released a statement reporting that the fire was caused by an overloaded power strip in the building. After the fire was knocked down, the Pembroke ambulance that was on the scene for standby was utilized to transport a firefighter who suffered a medical emergency on-scene. That firefighter was treated and released from a local hospital. - PAT TRAVERS
CHUCK LOWE
Join the Heroes Team! Becoming part of the Heroes team KDV LWV EHQHÂżWV &RQWDFW XV WR OHDUQ PRUH DERXW EHFRPLQJ D +HURHV &HUWLÂżHG DJHQW info@HeroesRealty.com
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877-541-HERO PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
August, 2018
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August, 2018
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
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time served as a technical consultant for the T.V. series, Emergency. I’ll let you, the reader, comprehend his impressive bio. These essays are grouped into 12 sections. Such topics are One Man’s Career, Extraordinary People, Fire Service Culture, California Firestorms, When Things Go Wrong, The Ride of My Life, Fire Chiefs, Getting Things Done through People, Ink Fights, Keep The Lawyers Out Of This, Bureaucratic Foibles, and Movies And Television. There are two to four stories in each of these groups, none of which are very long but all very interesting. There is also an epilogue. The only photo (other than two small black and white ones of the author), is of the author at the back bumper of a replica of old Rescue 11, a 1947 Ford panel truck which was formerly a plumber’s truck for sale in Minnesota that he bought and later restored to look like the first rescue truck he was assigned to.
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August, 2018
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MASSACHUSETTS
Firefighters stabilize the vehicle.
K. LEGER
Fire Museum Holds 10th Annual Truck Show in Fall River Fall River, MA - Families and fire service enthusiasts gathered at Fall River Fire Department Headquarters for the 10th annual Fire Museum Fire Truck show on June 24th. Numerous antique and modern apparatus were on display, as well as an inflatable fire truck bounce house for kids to play in. Heavy Rescue 1, along with the crew of Engine 6, performed a mock extrication of an MVA that had one vehicle on top of the other, covering access to the driver's side door. Members had to stabilize both vehicles before they could begin successfully removing the victim. The Fire Prevention Bureau offered tours of the fire safe house where inspectors taught fire safety
JIM FORTIN, JR.
JUMP TO FILE #062418137 lessons in each room of the threeroom house. Michael Higgins of the Magic Garden created two wood carvings with a chainsaw that were raffled off to two lucky people. Numerous vendors displayed their wares, and artisans offered face painting and temporary tattoos for anyone interested. The Fire Museum had a table set up to sell T-shirts to benefit the museum, and the snack bar was busy all day selling cold drinks, hot dogs and hamburgers. - KENNETH LEGER
Cat Rescued from Roof of Ayer Fifth-Alarm Ayer, MA - The Ayer Fire Dept. was dispatched to 10 E Main Street for a structure fire at 2:11 P.M. on June 17th. C1 arrived moments later to find heavy fire showing from the 'D' side that was extending into the attic of the twoand-a-half story wood-frame. A working fire, followed by a second-alarm was requested by command. Companies stretched multiple hand lines including a two-and-a-half inch to the adjacent roof top of the 'D' side to hit the
JUMP TO FILE #062218111 fire on the upper floors. A thirdalarm was struck and command requested the railroad tracks to be shut down on the 'C' side so crews could set up a Blitz gun to hit the rear. Ladder 1’s master stream was used to knock down the majority of the fire from the outside. A Shirley police officer reported seeing a cat on the roof of
the structure, and with the heavy fire knocked down, Ayer Captain Johnston ascended L1 to rescue the cat, which was then reunited with its owner. A fourth-alarm and eventually a fifth were requested, bringing multiple surrounding towns to the scene to assist with extinguishment and overhaul. No injuries were reported and the cause is under investigation. - JIM FORTIN
WHERE ARE THEY NOW? If you have photos you would like to see in our Where are they Now? feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
CHUCK LOWE
One of the carvings created by Michael Higgins.
K. LEGER
Harvard, MA Tower 1 is a 1980 Mack-CF/Baker 75' Aerialscope that was acquired in 2015. Prior to that it served the town of Pembroke in New Hampshire. The apparatus was painted white when PFD acquired it and remains white at its new assignment. It is the only non-red rig in Harvard's Fleet. Prior to going into semi-retirement in New England, this apparatus saw duty in New York City as Tower Ladder 114 in the Borough of Brooklyn. Tally-Ho!
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MASSACHUSETTS
WORKING FACES
If you have photos you would like to see in our “Working Faces� feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
Hanson Fire Lt. Sherri Mullin and Hanson FF Eric Adams work to extricate the victim.
PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
Whitman and Hanson Crews Use Jaws at Town Line Crash
STEPHEN SWEET
Quincy FD Probationary FF Helms working at the scene of a structure on Washington Street in Quincy on June 10th.
Hanson, MA - Just after 7:30 A.M. on the morning of Tuesday, July 3rd, the Whitman Fire Department received a call reporting a two-car motor vehicle accident with both vehicles into the woods on Franklin Street (Route-27), at the Hanson town line. Both departments responded with an ambulance and engine. Companies arrived to find a two-vehicle accident, with both vehicles off the roadway. The occupant of one vehicle was ambulatory
JUMP TO FILE #070418100 on the scene while the other operator was stuck in the vehicle. Hanson firefighters used a chainsaw to clear some debris near the driver's side door while Whitman firefighters grabbed the portable hydraulic extrication tools. Both departments went to work with cutters and spreaders to get the door off of the driver's side so
they could remove the patient from the vehicle. After an approximate 10-minute extrication, the victim was removed and brought to Whitman Ambulance-247. The victim was transported to a local hospital. The cause of the motor vehicle accident is under investigation. No other injuries were reported. Route-27 was closed for a short time while the extrication took place. - PAT TRAVERS
PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
Brockton, MA Fire Lieutenant Mike McKenna waits for a firefighter coming up a ladder at a recent working fire on Grafton Street.
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STEPHEN SWEET
Boston Crews Battle Two-Alarm Fire
Boston, MA - On May 12th, Boston firefighters responded to a two-alarm fire at 3 Groom Street. This was the third multiple-alarm fire of the night.
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MASSACHUSETTS
FIREFIGHTER PROFILES
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The Last Fire Alarm Operator. At 0700 on July 5th, Cambridge Fire Alarm Operator Ron Richard retired from the Emergency Communications Department. He is shown here working "the fire side" during his last tour, a double, on July 4th. Congrats to Ronnie on his retirement after 32 years of dedicated service to the city. He will be missed. Ron's retirement signifies the
end of an era, as he was the only member of ECC that held the job title and civil service designation "Fire Alarm Operator". The fire alarm office was once a separate entity and all of the people who worked there had a passion for the fire service. Those operators were absorbed into the Emergency Communications Division in the mid-90's and the practice of hiring civil service applicants was abolished. (L to R): Acting Fire Chief Tom Macinnis with Kathy Crosby (her son was killed in the Boston fire). Kathy heads up the Last Call Foundation. PETER LOBO
New Equipment Donated to Waltham Fire Dept.
Waltham, MA - Keane Fire and Safety of Waltham recently donated a MaxiForce Air Lifting System to the Waltham Fire Dept. The Last Call Foundationi is in memory of Michael Kennedy, a firefighter killed in the line of duty during a fire in Boston. It’s responsible for distributing fire equipment that companies want to donate. Keene employees held a demonstration on the use of the new airbag system, and showed how valuable such equipment can be. This new equipment will replace an older airbag system and is a valuable tool when quick lifts and stabilization is required. The new equipment will be used on Rescue 1.
Fire Alarm Operator Ron Richard.
CHUCK LOWE
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MASSACHUSETTS
BUDDY SHOTS
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PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
Brockton Firefighter Joe Coleman with FFOP's Eric Flaherty and Matt Brown, who experienced their first fire on duty, July 8th.
WORKING FACES
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K. LEGER
Firefighters check for extension.
Stolen Truck in Fall River Destroyed by Fire Fall River, MA - Shortly after midnight on June 24th, crews responded to a still alarm in the area of Seabury and Pine Streets. When firefighters arrived they found a fully involved pickup truck, one block away, that had flame impingement on a nearby commercial structure. The truck, which was a contractor utility body truck, had been stolen moments earlier from a local hall where friends and family had
JUMP TO FILE #062418136 gathered to celebrate a wedding. The truck was taken right out of the lot from the establishment and appeared to be stripped of its tools and set on fire. District Chief Ken Lima requested the Fire Investigation team to respond because of the suspicious nature of the incident.
Firefighters used a ground ladder to access the roof of the commercial structure to check for extension. The heat melted the siding on the building but members were able to hold the damage to the exterior. The truck was a total loss, and the investigation into this incident continues. - KENNETH LEGER
COMMAND VEHICLES
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STEPHEN SWEET
Boston FF Graham working the scene of a two-alarm structure fire on May 12th at 3 Groom Street.
Concord's shift commander, designated C-3, operates a 2017 Ford Excursion SUV.
CHUCK LOWE
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MASSACHUSETTS
Simple Advice ON THE BOOK SHELF
by John Malecky
Simple Advice By James O. Page Available from: FSP Books & Videos 188 Central Street, Suite #4 Hudson, MA 01749-1330 1-800-522-8528 E-mail: support@fire-policeems.com www.fire-police-ems.com Price: $20.00 This is a soft cover book measuring 6" x 9" with 164 pages. It is a compilation of 45 essays by the author who is now deceased, but had a very colorful career beginning with the Los Angeles County Fire Department in 1957. He implemented the L. A. County’s paramedic program in 1971, and for a
time served as a technical consultant for the T.V. series, Emergency. I’ll let you, the reader, comprehend his impressive bio. These essays are grouped into 12 sections. Such topics are One Man’s Career, Extraordinary People, Fire Service Culture, California Firestorms, When Things Go Wrong, The Ride of My Life, Fire Chiefs, Getting Things Done through People, Ink Fights, Keep The Lawyers Out Of This, Bureaucratic Foibles, and Movies And Television. There are two to four stories in each of these groups, none of which are very long but all very interesting. There is also an epilogue. The only photo (other than two small black and white ones of the author), is of the author at the back bumper of a replica of old Rescue 11, a 1947 Ford panel truck which was formerly a plumber’s truck for sale in Minnesota that he bought and later restored to look like the first rescue truck he was assigned to.
THEN & NOW
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Fitchburg once ran a 1964 FWD two-door pumper out of their Summer St. station as Engine 1. It was built by Farrar fire apparatus of Woodville Mass (Hopkinton). 10-E1 has seen a handful of other rigs since this classic rig was retired. They now operate a 2016 KME Panther pumper.
1964 FWD/Farrar 1250-GPM pump with a 600 tank.
Heavy smoke from the attic as crews prepare entry from the 2nd floor porch.
JOHN DEFOREST, JR.
Fire Tears Through Springfield House Springfield, MA - Fire heavily damaged the top floors of a multifamily home in Old Hill late Tuesday afternoon, June 5th, forcing out all 11 inhabitants. Everyone at 95-97 Lebanon Street escaped the fire with no injuries, according to Dennis Leger, aide to Springfield Fire Commissioner Bernard Calvi. Firefighters responded to the 5:10 P.M. alarm to find heavy
JUMP TO FILE #061718103 flames covering the eastern side of the building and smoke coming from the upper floors as the fire rose into the third-floor and attic. Firefighters battled the flames in the roof, finally knocking down the fire about an hour after arriv-
ing on scene. Leger said fire investigators determined an automobile fire in a Jeep CJ parked in a driveway close to the eastern side of the home spread to the building. He estimated the fire damage to be about $100,000. - JOHN DEFOREST
FLASHBACK
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CHUCK LOWE
CHUCK LOWE
2016 KME Panther MFC 1500-GPM pump with a 750 tank.
CHUCK LOWE
"The Huntington Avenue Express". The firefighters at Boston's Huntington Ave. Firehouse were some of the busiest in the nation back in the 80's when this photo was taken. Members are shown in front of their apparatus following an alarm investigation. Engine 37 was running a 1978 Hahn. Ladder 26 had a tractor-drawn 1976 Seagrave.
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August, 2018
COMPLETE WATER RESCUE SOLUTIONS B O A T S PPE & EQUIPMENT T R A I N I N G
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PROVIDED
Fire Museum Board Receives Award Fall River, MA - On Thursday, June 14th, the Fall River Fire Museum was honored to receive the John S. Brayton community service award from the Bristol County Chamber of Commerce. Six individuals and two organizations were honored for their outstanding volunteer efforts and impacts on our community. The Fire Museum Board was honored for their efforts to restore a fire station built in 1873, and turn it into a fire museum. Everyone gathered at White's of Westport, a local restaurant, for an evening of awards and a great meal. Pictured is Ken Leger accepting the award for the Fire Museum.
Vehicle News
PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
Whitman Extricates One from Rollover Crash Whitman, MA - Shortly after 1:00 A.M. on the morning of Monday, June 11th, the Whitman Fire Department responded to a reported motor vehicle accident in the area of 265 Winter Street. Engine-243, Ambulance-249 and Car-3 responded. Companies arrived to find a single-vehicle crash, with a pickup truck on its side. The vehicle had crashed through a telephone pole, snapping it in half, prior to landing on its side in the front yard of a
JUMP TO FILE #061418117 home. The single occupant was pinned in the vehicle and would need to be extricated. Deputy Chief Joseph Feeney reported that Rescue-244 and manpower would be needed at the scene, and the box was struck for manpower. Firefighters utilized hydraulic cutting tools, as well as airbags to manipulate the vehicle in order to
free the victim. Companies worked to free the trapped victim for approximately 20-minutes before they were able to extricate. Firefighters transported the victim with two additional paramedics on-board to the South Shore Hospital with reported serious, but nonlife-threatening injuries. Whitman Police are investigating the cause of the accident. No other injuries were reported. - PAT TRAVERS
JOHN DEFOREST, JR.
The Town of East Longmeadow recently took delivery of this 2018 Pierce Ascendant 107' 1500/500 Ladder. K. LEGER
Fall River Fire Inspectors Discover Working House Fire
Lancaster has taken delivery of a 2018 KME Severe Service AerialCat 109’ aerial that will operate as Ladder 17. This designation deviates from prior numbering in an effort to reduce confusion on mutual aid responses since just about every town has a Ladder 1. The town is department 17 in the MidState mutual aid system. CHUCK LOWE
Fall River, MA - Fire inspectors on a routine inspection discovered a working fire, called for a full still alarm response and evacuated the building on June 26th. Car 3 arrived on scene and radioed to dispatch that he had heavy fire showing from the third-floor of a residential over commercial and immediately called for an extra pump to be dispatched. Engines 2, 4 and 5, along with Ladders 2 and 4, and Heavy Rescue 1 responded on the initial alarm. Ladder 2 used the aerial to
JUMP TO FILE #062618112 ventilate the roof, while Engine 2 began fire attack. A primary search of the building was negative, however the third-floor tenant reported to command that his dog was still on the third-floor. Command advised members working the thirdfloor to search for the dog, which was removed shortly after. The dog was brought out to EMS personnel on scene, who
began resuscitation efforts. They were able to revive the dog before it was brought to a local veterinarian. The Red Cross was called in to assist 10 people that were displaced from their homes. Fire investigators were also called in to determine origin and cause. The third-floor sustained heavy fire damage while the lower floors had smoke and water damage. - KENNETH LEGER
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PATCH OF THE MONTH If you have photos you would like to see in our “Patch of the Month” feature please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
Companies going to work.
B SPRAGUE
Fire Consumes Building in Salem, Two Firefighters Injured EUGENE WEBER JR.
The patch of Dalton Fire Department, located in Coos County, NH.
WEARE FD
Child Flown to Children’s Hospital Following MVA in Weare Weare, NH - Crews responded to a motor vehicle accident on Sunday, July 1st around 7:00 P.M. on Concord Stage Road. The accident involved a single motor vehicle that struck a U-Haul truck parked on the side of the road. In all, three passengers were transported to Concord Hospital. Two adults suffered non-life-threatening injuries. One minor child was later flown by Air Medical Transport to Children’s Hospital in Boston. Mutual aid was provided by Goffstown and Dunbarton.
Salem, NH - At 5:35 A.M. on June 13th, Salem Fire Alarm received RB-4232 for 80 Main Street, at China Star restaurant. As companies were being dispatched Fire Alarm began receiving calls for a fire at that location, a large two-and-a-half story, 100x150, wood-frame, balloon construction built in the 1920's. There were 10 apartments on the second and third floors. Firstdue officer Battalion Chief Enos had heavy smoke showing from the building and called for a working fire, followed soon buy a second-alarm. Conditions continued to deteriorate, but companies were determined to complete a search of the building. Engine 2 and Rescue 3 entered the building on the "Bravo" side with a two-and-a-half inch line. In zero visibility and high heat, the second-floor came down on top of firefighters, briefly pinning one member. The officer quickly called a MAYDAY and was able to get out on their own. Chief of Department Parisi ordered a third-alarm and a PAR of all members on scene. Tactics were transitioned to a defensive posture. All members were accounted for. The building suffered two external structural collapses, taking the building to the ground.
One of many master streams.
B SPRAGUE
In total, 10 engine companies, three ladder companies and several support units were used. No civilian injuries were reported. The two
Podcasts
Audio roundtable
Action video
Columns
National radio re- Incident photos and reports port
injured firefighters would be recovering at home for a few days. - ROBERT SPRAGUE
All available at
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Bob Long
RHODE ISLAND
TIVERTON FIRE DEPT.
Flames Ravage Home in Tiverton
Tiverton, RI - Tiverton Firefighters responded with Bristol, Middletown and Navy units to assist the Portsmouth Fire Department with a structure fire on July 10th just after midnight.
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Death... Chaplain's Corner Didymus McHugh
Death is something that is always around emergency services. Emergency services sees it so much, and may meet death if things go wrong on a scene. When I teach class, I say "Thank you for joining emergency services, now is the time to say goodbye to the age of innocence. We see things that the public does not want to see, or even know what happens." After that statement is made, we start teaching them about critical incident stress management and other ways to handle stress, as well as resources that are out there. Death is all around emergency services and it is something that all emergency services has to deal with. We deal with those who die in a fire, car crash, someone who has a heart attack or other medical call, someone who has taken their own life, a child or an elderly person that dies, etc. But this also may be the public, or from the emergency responder’s family, or the family of emergency services. Sometimes it may seem like too much. Death does not discriminate. Sometimes emergency services may experience many deaths in a short amount of time from different parts of their lives. Death is a part of life, not always a good part. When someone has been suffering, it is said that they experience pain no longer. When it is quick, at least they did not feel any pain. Death cannot rule our lives. Responders need to work on how they will process the different deaths. Each death will hit a responder a different way. Emergency services may or may not get used to how much is seen. When I worked my first shift in EMS, within the first five minutes I met death. Some people get accustomed to dealing with death of a client, to the point that when they see a bloody scene, they may think of what they are going to have for dinner. Other people may not be able to finish the rest of the shift. But one thing that we all have in common is that we all must deal with death. People cope with death in many ways. Some people may use firehouse humor to help them lessen the blow. But some others may think about death a little more. Maybe the person reminded us of a family member, or was a family member. Maybe the person was someone that we have worked alongside of for many years. Maybe when we see one particular face of death, we may think about
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
NEW HAMPSHIRE our own mortality. We know that if someone in emergency services die, we put the mourning band over our badge, lower the flags to half-staff and put bunting on the station. Some other companies may have their own traditions, but most of us mark the day and have the flags lowered for 30 days. There are other traditions that may arise at different stations to say goodbye to an emergency responder. When a child dies, it hits hard. An innocent child. When emergency responders have a call with a child, the pace gets quicker, they work harder and pull out all the stops. The death of a child or children effect emergency responders harder. Some of the people that have been portrayed as the rock may be effected more. But emergency services is not exactly a safe occupation. Death is all around us and on certain calls we can almost see the Grim Reaper standing in the shadows as the emergency responders are trying to do the best work that is able to be performed. Many emergency services wear the Class A uniforms more for funerals than anything else. The black mourning band may seem to be over the badge for so long. Sometimes it may feel like joy will never come because there is so much in common. One fire chief told me that, “One thing we all have in common is death". Each one of us needs to think about the way that we work with death. It is not an easy subject to talk about, but we can also make things easier for when it is our time to die. Think about a will, prearranging your funeral services, insurance, discussing if you are an organ donor, etc. Sometimes people say the best way that they want to die is quietly in their sleep. What resources do you have to deal with seeing so much death? Do you have a chaplain to talk with? A counselor? The crisis team? Do you have friends to talk with, or that will mourn with you? Job, when he lost everything, his friends came over and spent time with him. They sat there for seven days, just being present and not saying a word. But they were there for him. Are you there to help someone with death, even if it is by just sitting there? Let us also remember to celebrate life. Tell your loved ones that you love them, let them hear those three words. Yes, love is a four letter word, why is it so easy to say the “F” four letter word, yet so hard to say the word love? We never know how or when we will die. Let those who you love hear it before they will never hear it from you. Love you Dad!
B SPRAGUE
Heavy Flames Destroy Jet Ski in Salem
Salem, NH - Salem Engine 2 responded to a reported jet ski fire on June 12th. As Engine 2 was enroute they could see a loom of smoke in the area. Upon arrival, the lieutenant reported a jet ski on fire near a garage. Firefighters stretched a line, and using foam made a quick knock down of the fire with no damage to the garage.
MEMORIES If you have photos you would like to see in our “Memories” feature please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
CHUCK LOWE
Epsom's old Jimmy! Epsom New Hampshire once ran this GMC 5000 that was built by Howe Fire Apparatus in Anderson, Indiana. It operated as Engine 1.
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