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AUGUST, 2016
SIX-ALARM DEEMED LARGEST FIRE IN ROCHESTER HISTORY
PAUL DOLNIER
Rochester, NH - Initial calls that were made to 911 on June 19, 2016 were reporting a structure fire located at 15 Main Street in Rochester, NH. Upon first-due fire units’ arrival from Rochester’s Station-2, which is located less than one-mile away, an upgrade was requested for a second-alarm due to heavy fire conditions. - See full story on page 8
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August, 2016
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
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August, 2016
NEW HAMPSHIRE
BRIAN BLACKDEN
KENNETH ERICKSON
Laconia conducts large-scale drill BRIAN BLACKDEN
Public Safety Memorial Parade
Penacook, NH- On June 12th, Penacook Rescue started the parade at their station and ended it at the Concord Fire Department Manor Station #5. Participating in the annual memorial parade for the city were local Fire/EMS units, the Concord Police Department, local dignitaries, the Patriot Guard and the Boy Scouts, led by the Merrimack County Corrections Honor Guard. A ceremony with taps played out in Penacook Village and at the Public Safety Memorial, held in Woodlawn Cemetery, before marching to the Manor Station.
Laconia, NH- On Wednesday, May 18th, the City of Laconia conducted a large scale, table-top drill in conjunction with numerous other agencies. The drill simulated a severe weather event during Motorcycle Week and Laconia Fest. The purpose of the drill was to test their response plans for the two events, as well as test their radio interoperability, mutual aid partnerships, mass casualty capabilities, command and control, and all emergency operations in general. From their perspective, the drill was a huge success. There were 67 participants, some of which had hands-on roles while others were observers. There were seven evaluators from State Homeland Security. The drill was held at the Laconia Central Fire Station in the community room, as well as in the
JUMP TO FILE #061316115 city's new Emergency Operation Center. Groups were spread throughout the fire station grounds, forcing participants to use multiple radio frequencies and operating channels. The drill is designed to test their systems and how well they work together. There were many lessons learned and positive issues reinforced. The participants came from the NH State Police, Liquor Commission, Probation/Parole, Laconia Fire, Police, Public Works, Parks & Recreation, City Manager, and Finance and Purchasing. In addition, the Lakes Region Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), Lakes Region Mutual Fire
Aid and Lakes Region General Hospital were also involved. Neighboring communities that also participated were Belmont Police and Fire, Gilford Police and Fire, Meredith Fire and Stewarts Ambulance, Franklin Fire, and the Belknap County Sheriff's office. This was a great opportunity for people to work together in nonemergency mode. State Homeland Security will produce an after-action report with recommendations for improvements. At the end of the drill, an after-action review was conducted so that all participants had a chance to talk about strengths and weaknesses as well as any need for change or improvement. The drill was funded through a Homeland Security grant. - KENNETH ERICKSON
Apartment fire in Laconia Laconia, NH- On Thursday, June 2nd at 3:05 P.M., Laconia, Gilford and Belmont Fire Departments were dispatched to a reported building fire at 103 Blueberry Lane in Laconia. Chief Erickson was on North Main Street when the call came in and arrived in less than one-minute. He reported a four-unit, two-story multi-family, with smoke showing from the ground floor. He requested a 1st-alarm, which brought in cover trucks from Laconia and off-duty personnel. At the time of the fire, Gilford was handling a brush fire and Belmont was at Lakes Region General Hospital with the ambulance. Laconia Central Station crews arrived under the command of Acting Lieutenant Hewlett. The engine laid a supply hose line from a hydrant into the large apartment complex. The resident was outside of the apartment, but said that her cat was still inside. The status of the occupants in the other units was unknown. The crews stretched a two-inch hose into the apartment and attacked the fire. The fire originated in the kitchen and was spreading towards the front of the apartment.
JUMP TO FILE #061316113 Firefighter Hanser found the cat, scooped it up and brought it outside to safety. Laconia Police assisted in checking the two adjacent apartments, while Laconia Firefighters checked the apartment above the fire, confirming that all occupants were out. The fire was quickly knocked down and crews started overhaul. When the Weirs Station and Belmont crews arrived, they assisted with overhaul and salvage work. Red Cross was notified to assist the occupant. The property maintenance crew was on scene and provided assistance as well. The damage was estimated at $50,000 and the property saved was estimated at $150,000. Tilton covered Central Station, while Meredith covered the Weirs Station and Belmont covered with an ambulance.
- KENNETH ERICKSON
BILL SEAMAN
Firefighters quickly extinguish early morning box truck fire
Kingston, NH- At 3:30 A.M. on June 23rd, firefighters responded to a fully involved box truck fire. The fire, which was quickly brought under control, started in the cargo box area of the truck. The vehicle operator stated that the truck had run out of gasoline. While transferring gas from portable power equipment into a container using an open flame for lighting, there was an explosion, resulting in the operator getting blown out of the truck. The vehicle operator refused EMS evaluation.
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August, 2016
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1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New England edition - Vol. 21, 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 e r r o r . A division of: Omissions or errors must be brought to the attention of the newspaper during the same month of publication.
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DERRY FIRE
Fire caused by portable fire pit destroys duplex The Derry Fire Communications Center received two 911 calls at 2:31 A.M. on July 4th from neighbors reporting a large building fire on Derryfield Road in Derry, NH. Derry Car-1, Engines 1, 2, JUMP TO FILE# 3, Truck-4 and 070616114 Medic-1 were dispatched to the area. All Derry companies were in service and available to respond. On arrival at 70L Derryfield Road, companies found heavy fire involving 80% of the left side unit of a two-family dwelling (duplex), extending into the right side unit. The fire extended to the outside sheathing of 66 Derryfield Road (an adjacent structure), and was quickly extinguished on arrival. A first-alarm working fire assignment was struck. The first arriving engine company advanced an attack line and made an aggressive transitional attack, darkening down the fast moving fire in the left side unit. A second line was advanced into the right side unit where the advancement of the fire was slowed and eventually extinguished. All occupants were reported to be out of the building. A primary and secondary search by fire personnel confirmed this report. Occupants of the right side unit reported that there were two cats still inside of the building. Firefighters searched the building for the animals and rescued one of the cats. It
is believed that the second cat may have made it out on its own. A male and female adult lived in 70L and two adult females lived in 70R. The American Red Cross is providing assistance to all four of the displaced residents. Additional Derry companies assisted with command and control, search, ventilation, water supply and the placement of backup lines. Mutual Aid was provided by Auburn, Londonderry, Chester and Windham. Station Coverage was provided by Manchester, Salem, Auburn and Hampstead. 70 Derryfield Road is considered to be a total loss while 66 Derryfield Road sustained damage to the outside siding, trim and sheathing. There were no civilian or fire service personnel injuries. A preliminary investigation by the Derry Fire Department's Fire Investigation Bureau found that the cause of the fire appeared to be from an unattended fire in a portable fire pit that extended into the deck and eventually into the building. This is the third fire in Derry in recent weeks that started on the outside of the building and quickly moved into the structure. Residents are reminded that it is unsafe to use portable fire pits on decks, that all smoking material needs to be properly disposed of and not tossed off of decks (where it could catch dry leaves and grass on fire), and that hot ashes should never be left on a deck. - DERRY FIRE
Firefighters searched the burning building for two missing cats, rescuing one of them. The second cat was believed to have made it out before firefighters arrival. DERRY FIRE
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
August, 2016
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August, 2016
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In memory of those who gave all 1st Responder Newspaper honors and remembers emergency responders lost in the line of duty
New Hampshire: Douglas A. Clement Rank: Firefighter-AEMT Incident Date: June 14, 2016 Death Date: June 14, 2016 Fire Department: New Hampton Fire Department Initial Summary: Fewer than 24 hours following participation in motor vehicle extrication and rescue training at the fire department, FirefighterAEMT Clement experienced a medical emergency at his residence. Firefighter-AEMT Clement was transported to the hospital where he succumbed to a reported heart attack.
North Carolina: Joshua Warren Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: June 16, 2016 Death Date: June 16, 2016 Fire Department: Alexis Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: Firefighter Warren fell ill from a nature of injury still to be determined while onduty and engaged in physical fitness training at a local middle school. Warren was rushed to CHSLincoln Medical Center, where he later succumbed to his injury. Hawaii: Clifford M. Rigsbee Rank: Firefighter III Incident Date: June 14, 2016 Death Date: June 16, 2016 Fire Department: Honolulu Fire Department Initial Summary: Firefighter III Rigsbee was found unconscious and floating in the water immediately after being separated from a jet ski/rescue sled while participating in a rescue watercraft training exercise. The firefighter operating the jet ski jumped into the water to initiate a rescue and with the assistance of others, including a nearby
off-duty firefighter, brought Rigsbee to shore where he was rushed to the Straub Medical Center in critical condition. The firefighter/operator of the watercraft, who was also injured in the incident, was treated at the hospital and released. In spite of all efforts, Firefighter Rigsbee, who had suffered a spinal column injury, succumbed two days later while in the hospital.
North Carolina: David K. Britt Rank: Fire Chief Incident Date: June 17, 2016 Death Date: June 18, 2016 Fire Department: Severn Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: Fire Chief Britt suffered a medical emergency at his home several hours after responding to a motor vehicle crash. The nature and cause of fatal injury are still to be reported. Ohio: John R. Fritz Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: June 27, 2016 Death Date: June 27, 2016 Fire Department: Austintown Fire Department Initial Summary: While on duty at Austintown Fire Station #1, Firefighter Fritz passed away from a nature and cause of fatal injury still to be determined. Firefighter Fritz ran several emergency calls throughout his shift, and when he did not report to the truck for an emergency medical response, his crew found him in the station unresponsive. Fellow responders and Lane LifeTrans Ambulance provided medical assistance but Firefighter Fritz did not regain consciousness.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
August, 2016
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August, 2016
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
NEW HAMPSHIRE
Six-alarm deemed largest fire in Rochester history Rochester, NH - Initial calls that were made to 911 on June 19th were reporting a structure fire located at 15 Main Street in Rochester, NH. Upon first-due fire units' arrival from Rochester's Station-2, which is located less than one-mile away, an upgrade was requested for a second-alarm due to heavy fire conditions. The buildings involved in the fire included a multi-unit, twoand-a-half story apartment house, a two-story restaurant located next door to the apartment house and a two-story commercial building that was being used as a gun store and located next door to the involved restaurant. An immediate exposure problem was caused due to the fact that there were very old, wooden buildings located within 10-feet or less of each other in that part of town, as well as the fact that arriving units confirmed a heavy fire condition in the apartment building that was spreading rapidly to the restaurant next door and there was no access available to the structures, other than from the street side of the buildings. Upon arrival of Rochester Command, the fire went quickly from a third-alarm, to a fourthalarm and finally to a fifth-alarm. A few special circumstances were experienced that day which contributed to the fast moving fire. One special circumstance involved was that the day of the blaze occurred on Father’s Day. Because many of the local towns are volunteer and call force, there were some issues with getting adequate manpower response due to the holiday being celebrated by volunteers from local surrounding towns. Another special circumstance involved was the high heat and humidity that occurred, with temperatures rising into the 90-degree range. Wind conditions also helped to spread burning embers throughout the area, causing one brush fire that was reported nearby. An additional circumstance experienced was inadequate manpower needs. Due to the high heat, high humidity and the intense fire conditions, a massive rehabilitation facility was set up by multiple EMS units from across the seacoast, including units from Maine, to provide water, shade and medical care for both firefighters and anyone else affected by the fire. One firefighter was sent to the local hospital for evaluation after experiencing heat exhaustion. At the height of firefighting operations, during which four tower ladders were in full operations, Rochester FD Assistant Chief Mark Dupuis estimated that anywhere between one-million to one-and-a-half million gallons of water were used to fully extinguish the fire that totally destroyed two of the buildings while
JUMP TO FILE #061916103 damaging the third. The six-alarm was a Task Force assignment from the nearby Lakes Region of NH. It consisted of five engines that would take over all operations, enabling them to release the local seacoast towns and cities' responding departments, allowing them to return back to their respective towns. This was the first time in the history of Rochester that a Task Force was dispatched for a fire incident call. Rochester Box-52 was struck for this fire incident, bringing in units from the entire New Hampshire seacoast region, from as far away as Sanford, ME, which is about thirty-miles east of Rochester. The Lakes Region Task Force was headed by the Laconia Fire Department and consisted of Belmont, Laconia, Gilford, Gilmanton and Northfield – Tilton fire units. Units from South Berwick, ME, the York County Special Operations unit, as well as EMS units from McGregor Memorial Hospital, assisted Frisbee Memorial Hospital and American Ambulance units with first aid and rehab of all firefighters and anyone else affected by the high heat and excessive humidity that day. All Strafford County fire departments were represented at the fire scene, as well as Rockingham County fire departments from New Castle and Newmarket. Engine-8 from the nearby US Air Force Base, located outside of Portsmouth, NH, was also on scene. The immediate Gonic area of Rochester, located in the downtown area where the fire was located, was closed off for several days due to the extensive investigation that took place, which required an aerial ladder to help investigators access various areas of the affected buildings, and also to help survey the extensive damage done by the very intense fire that could only be appreciated by that type of viewpoint. It is very rare to see four tower ladders in full operations, especially during a fire in a smaller-sized town, but due to the lack of access to the buildings, it was the best way to put massive amounts of water on the intense fire in the shortest amount of time, and it also helped to protect all exposure threats in the immediate surrounding area. Due to the timing of the incident falling on Father’s Day, as well as the massive amount of billowing black smoke that could be seen from miles away and from all directions, this fire story was featured on various news channels' breaking news stories. The fire is under investigation by the City of Rochester FD and
Scene of three buildings on fire in Rochester, on June 19th.
PAUL DOLNIER
A massive column of smoke from the six-alarm fire could be seen from miles away.
the NH State Fire Marshal’s Office, as well as the ATF. No property damage has been determined yet, but two of the buildings were completely destroyed and the third building involved was severely damaged. It was estimated that at the height of the firefighting inci-
dent, there were as many as 100firefighters involved. The last time the City of Rochester had a fifth-or-higher alarm was in January of 2006 at 4:39 A.M., when a massive fire broke out at a local restaurant, which ended up being an arson
PAUL DOLNIER
case. That fire also had special issues due to extremely low temperatures, causing frozen hoses as well as frost bite concerns. - PAUL DOLNIER
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
August, 2016
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NEW HAMPSHIRE
Iconic landmark in Rochester damaged by early morning blaze Rochester, NH- At about 11:00 A.M. on June 13th, the Rochester Fire Department received a fire alarm activation for an iconic landmark known as the "Governors Inn," located at 78 Wakefield Street (only a few blocks from the central fire station), JUMP TO FILE# in downtown 061316126 Rochester. The fire was reported to be in a third-floor bathroom of the threestory brick building. The building was the former estate of a New Hampshire Governor that has since been turned into a Bed and Breakfast style inn and restaurant. The fire spread into the walls and when put out, caused considerable water, smoke and some limited fire damage to the almost 100-year-old landmark building. For about four-hours, traffic in Wakefield Street was re-routed through town due to the numerous fire appartaus' on the scene. No injuries were reported on the scene. The fire is under investigation by both the Rochester Fire Department and the New Hampshire Fire Marshal's office. - PAUL DOLNIER
Rochester Fire Department at scene of working structure fire in downtown Rochester.
PAUL DOLNIER
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August, 2016
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
NEW HAMPSHIRE
Vehicle News If you have photos you would like to see in our Vehicle News feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
KENNETH ERICKSON
Grease fire in concession stand
TOWN OF NEWTON
Newton, NH - Newton Fire/Rescue recently acquired a 2016 Pierce Tanker-4, Kenworth T800 Chassis, Cummings ISX 11.9 - 425HP Diesel, Allison 6 Speed Automatic 4000 EVS, 62,000-LB GVWR, 20K w/18K Rating Front (Kenworth), 46K w/44K Rating Rear (Dana Spicer DSH44), 3000-Gallon Elliptical Tank, Hale 1000GPM Q-PAK 100 Single Stage Pump, 320 AMP Delco Alternator w/Load Management and Whelen LED Light Package. This is the town’s first new apparatus purchase since 1998 and replaces a 1983 Ford F8000, 2000-Gallon Tanker.
Laconia, NH- Laconia, Belmont and Gilford Fire Departments were dispatched to 917 North Main Street in Laconia, at 9:54 A.M. on June 11th. The caller reported a fire in a concession stand, which is used for little league. Upon arrival, Lt. Vaillancourt reported having nothing showing from the two-story building that contains the clubhouse and concession stand. Two minutes later, he reported a grease fire on a large cooktop that had extended into the wall. He then requested a 1st-alarm, which brought cover trucks into the city. Gilford Engine laid a supply line of over 1,200-feet of four-inch hose from North Main Street. Crews stretched an attack line
through the side door and into the kitchen, knocking down the fire. The wall was opened and fire in the wall was then also extinguished. Crews went to the second-floor to check for fire extension. Fortunately, it was the last day of little league, so the loss will not affect the baseball season. Damage was estimated at $5,000, while property saved was estimated at $80,000. Parks and Recreation Director Kevin Dunleavey also responded to the scene, as it is a city building. Tilton covered Central Station along with Stewarts Ambulance, while Meredith covered the Weirs. - KENNETH ERICKSON
DRILLS / TRAINING
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MAINE
Two brush fires on same road in Lebanon Lebanon, ME- At 12:19 P.M. on Wednesday, July 13th, Lebanon Fire & EMS was toned out for a brush fire off of Carl Broggi JUMP TO FILE# Highway and Long 071416102 Swamp Rd. Just 12-minutes later, at 12:31 P.M., a second tone was struck for a second brush fire, also located on Rt. 202. This fire extended all the way to the
Sanford town line. The fire stretched all the way back to Union School Road and consisted of three separate fires, with about 50-yards separating each. Carl Broggi Highway was shut down to a single-lane by the State Police while fire crews worked on extinguishing the hot spots. A nearby landowner with a piece of heavy construction equipment helped crews by back-dragging the side of the road. North Berwick and Milton Fire were both called in with forestry
units to help. Milton pitched in on the Long Swamp Road scene while North Berwick aided on the Union School Road end. Witnesses reported seeing a truck that had blown a tire while traveling in the direction of Sanford. Bits of tire were indeed found along the roadway, and each fire happened to be located on the same side of the road, spanning a number of miles across town. - DAN MEEHAN
August, 2016
PAGE 11
To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
Norwich, CT - During the third weekend of June, four members of the Norwich FD participated in the NASBLA Boat Program's “Small Fire Boat Class.” A. RHEAUME
CHRIS PAIGE
LEBANON FIRE & EMS
Norwich, CT - In June, members from the Norwich FD participated in a three-day boat class, which greatly enhanced their capabilities.
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August, 2016
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
VERMONT
GREG RAMSDELL
GREG RAMSDELL
GREG RAMSDELL
Firefighters battle house fire, several treated for heat exhaustion
Highgate Fire Department on scene of the fire.
GREG RAMSDELL
Firefighters respond to fiery crash that resulted in barn fire Swanton, VT- On June 26th at approximately 3:30 P.M., Swanton Fire Department, Missisquoi Valley Rescue, Mutual Aid from St. Albans Town Fire Department and Highgate Fire Department responded to Route 207 in Swanton for a pickup truck verses pole, with a trans- JUMP TO FILE# former on top of it. 062616107 The truck caught fire after it came to rest against a barn, which caused the barn to also catch on fire. Firefighters made a quick knock down, saving the barn and fortunately, no animals were lost. The operator of the truck recieved minor injuries, but refused transport. He was wearing his seat belt and said he fell asleep, according to the Vermont State Police, who were investigating the accident. Swanton Electric was also called in to replace the pole and restore power. - GREG RAMSDELL
Sheldon, VT- Around 5:10 P.M. on June 15th, the Sheldon Fire Department, along with Mutual Aid from Swanton, St. Albans Town, and Highgate Fire Departments responded to Cedar Drive in Sheldon for a fully involved attached house and garage fire. No one was home when the fire broke out, as the owner had been out of town for several days. The fire is under investigation by the Vermont State Police. Some firefighters were treated for heat exhaustion, caused by battling the fire while in temperatures ranging from the high 70's to low 80's. The house was unfortunately a total loss. AmCare Ambulance Service also stood-by at the scene.
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August, 2016
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August, 2016
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
VERMONT
GREG RAMSDELL
Pickup truck hits car and then store Swanton, VT- On June 24th at approximately 11:15 A.M., Missisquoi Valley Rescue (MVR), along with Swanton Fire Department and Swanton Police Department (SPD), responded to Grand Avenue at Ste. Marie's Market, for a truck verses store. The truck hit another vehicle before hitting the store, causing damage to both the store and the other vehicle. There were no reported injuries and the accident is under investigation by SPD.
GREG RAMSDELL
Garage destroyed by fire
Swanton, VT- On July 2nd at 9:13 P.M., the Swantob Fire Department, along with Missisquoi Valley Rescue and Mutual Aid from Highgate Fire Department responded to Canada St.in Swanton Village for a garage fire. The garage was destroyed by the fire. Firefighters saved the house and the cause of the fire is under investigation.
GREG RAMSDELL
Firefighters respond to tanker fire Sheldon, VT- At approximately 5:20 A.M. on June 18th, Sheldon Fire Department was toned out for a milk tanker on fire at the intersection of Route 105 and Woodshill Road. Upon arrival of Sheldon Fire Department's first-due engine, the cab of the milk truck was fully involved by fire. Mutual Aid was called in from the Swanton Fire Department for an extra tanker and additional manpower. There were no reported injuries.
GREG RAMSDELL
Firefighters make excellent save at house fire St. Albans, VT- On June 14th at approximately 2:42 P.M., the St. Albans Town Fire Department responded to Pearl Street, located in the town, for a house fire. Firefighters made an interior attack and knocked the fire down quickly before beginning overhaul. There were no reported injuries. AmCare Ambulance Service stood-by at the scene. Firefighters were credited for making an excellent save.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
VERMONT
Motorcycle verses SUV Highgate, VT- On July 2nd at 12:28 P.M., Highgate Fire Department and AmCare Ambulance Service responded to Carter Hill Road in Highgate for a vehicle verses motorcycle with injuries. The JUMP TO FILE# motorcycle was trav- 070216102 eling westbound at a high rate of speed while an SUV was heading eastbound. The SUV was turning into a driveway when the motorcycle hit it head-on, throwing the motorcyclist into the windshield of the SUV. The motorcyclist was thrown a total of 50-feet from the wreck. The impact from the motorcyclist shattered the windshield of the SUV. He was transported by AmCare Ambulance to a local hospital and listed in serious condition. The Vermont State Police is investigating the crash. - GREG RAMSDELL
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August, 2016
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
Stamford Fire Department battles two-alarm fire Stamford, CT – On May 25th, the City of Stamford 911 Combined Dispatch Center began receiving multiple reports of a building fire located at 589 Bedford St., in the vicinity of the intersection of North St. Upon leaving their stations, the fire units that were dispatched noticed JUMP TO FILE# signs of a well in- 062216121 volved fire condition, including a plume of smoke and an odor of fire. The first arriving fire suppression companies were confronted by a well involved fire that had engulfed both the front and south-side of a two-and-a-half story, wood frame structure. Units were also challenged with the existence of another two-and-a-half story, wood frame structure to the north exposure, as well as a sixstory apartment to the south-side that was still under construction. Incident Commander and Deputy Fire Chief J. Pritchard, struck a second-alarm within minutes of arrival, which brought in an additional ladder company and engine company, bringing the total number of fire suppression units to five engine companies, two ladder companies and one rescue company, manned by 36 firefighters. Additional support units included Stamford Emergency Medical Services' Safety and Command staff, which included Chief of Department Roach, who also responded to assist in incident command.
Because of the combined effort that was made within a timely fashion, units were able to prevent further damage to the structure of origin and also prevent the two exposed wood frame structures, which were approximately 15-feet and 30feet to either side, from having fire spread into them. Although these two exposed buildings suffered superficial damage to the siding and some cracked windows, they were effectively protected, preventing them from being destroyed. The fire building and the exposure to the north are occupied by professional offices but were not occupied at the time of the fire. The six-story, newly constructed exposure to the south is not yet occupied, as it is still under construction. Life hazard was minimized due to the time of day the fire occurred and no firefighter injuries were reported. The Stamford Fire Department's Fire Marshal Division also responded and was conducting an investigation into the cause of the blaze. Fire suppression units began being released at approximately 8:00 A.M., with a few fire units still remaining to ensure complete extinguishment of the fire. Bedford Street (between Walton Place and North Street), was blocked for a few hours during the height of the fire, however; as operations began to reduce, fire crews were able to open one-lane of traffic at approximately 7:30 A.M., so as to not severely impact the morning rush hour commuting. - MICHAEL TERENZIO
PROVIDED
RYAN FLAHERTY
Departments respond to fire in Occum Norwich, CT - On July 5th at 7:48 A.M., the Occum and Taftville Fire Departments were dispatched to 17 Taftville-Occum Road for a reported structure fire. A firefighter arrived in his personal vehicle and transmitted the working fire with smoke showing. Yantic's FAST was started and then upgraded to a full assignment with Baltic. Crews from Occum and Taftville stretched a one-and-three-quarter inch hose line to the second-floor and extinguished fire in the kitchen. Mohegan Tribal provided the FAST and the Norwich Fire Marshal's office is investigating the cause of the fire. PROVIDED
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
August, 2016
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CONNECTICUT
RYAN FLAHERTY
Car fire with exposure
Norwich, CT - On July 6th at 1:00 P.M., a full response from the Norwich Fire Department was dispatched to 21 Joseph Perkins Road, for a car fire near a house. Engine-3 arrived first and reported an active engine compartment fire, located about eight-feet away from the house. The crew stretched a one-and-three-quarter inch crosslay while members of Squad-A overhauled the vehicle. The fire was quickly contained and the fire marshal's office is investigating.
RYAN FLAHERTY
Griswold FD responds to hotel fire
Griswold, CT - On July 8th at 7:57 A.M., the Griswold Fire Department, along with Mutual Aid from Jewett City, Lisbon, Voluntown, Plainfield, Preston, Taftville Tower-25, Yantic FAST and Central Village FAST were dispatched to the AmericInn Lodge & Suites, located on 375 Voluntown Road, for a fire in the hotel. First arriving crews found an active fire alarm and investigated a smoke condition. Luckily, there was no fire. The smoke was found to be coming from a faulty water heater in the pool area's utility room. Companies vented the building and crews were released shortly after.
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August, 2016
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
PROVIDED
Another two-alarm fire for Stamford ANDREW COOKE
ANDREW COOKE
Promotional ceremony held by Norwich FD Norwich, CT - On June 29th, the Norwich Fire Department held a badge pinning, promotional ceremony to celebrate the promotion of three officers. Captain Scott Merchant has been promoted to the rank of Battalion Chief. Chief Merchant will assume the role of Shift Commander on Platoon4. Lieutenant Marc Benjamin has been promoted to the rank of Captain and will be assigned to Squad-A on Platoon-1. Firefighter Glen Watts has been promoted to the rank of Lieutenant and will be assigned to Engine-3 on Platoon-1. Congratulations on your promotions!
Stamford, CT – On May 27th, Stamford Fire Department on-duty personnel were called in to battle a second 2-alarm blaze; this time in the city’s east-side, located in the Noroton Hill section. Stamford FD had responded to another 2ndalarm fire just two days prior, located at 589 Bedford St. The City of Stamford Combined 911 Dispatch Center began receiving multiple calls reporting a house on fire with a lot of smoke and flames coming from the back of the structure. Callers also reported that there was a fire in the house, on the second-floor. Dispatchers alerted and assigned three engine companies, one ladder company, one rescue company and one additional engine to operate as Rapid Intervention Team (RIT), at 8:56 P.M. Stamford Fire Department Engine Co. #4, stationed on Shippan Ave., was the first arriving unit and reported a working fire in a two-story, wood frame dwelling.
JUMP TO FILE #071116133 Fire was visible from the rear second-floor, on the northwest corner of the structure. Occupants that were inside the home at the time of the fire had reportedly all evacuated, however; as protocol, a search was conducted by firefighters to ensure that there were no other occupants inside. Additional arriving fire units began setting up support and backup operations to assist the initial attack company in their attempts to bring the fire under control as well as search the dwelling for any possible remaining occupants. Firefighter efforts were immediately hampered as the fire had taken ahold of the unfinished attic area, located above where the fire originally started. Access to this area was only available through a scuttle hole, which was difficult for firefighters to
navigate through with all of their equipment. The hot and humid conditions that were present prompted the Incident Commander to call for a second-alarm within ten-minutes of arrival, bringing in additional manpower to relieve firefighters who were making the initial attack. Although the fire was quickly brought under control and no injuries were sustained by firefighters or the occupants, one family pet did perish due to smoke inhalation. The Stamford Fire Departments Fire Marshal's Division was called in to conduct an investigation into the exact cause of the fire. Fire units remained on scene for approximately two-hours and a total of 40 personnel were needed to bring the structure fire under control, including six engine companies, two ladder companies, one rescue company and the shift commander. - MICHAEL TERENZIO
Initial tense moments during fire at condo complex Stamford, CT – A fire alarm activation at the Kingswood Condominiums, located at 59 Courtland Ave., summoned fire units to respond from the Stamford Fire Department at 7:41 A.M. on May 23rd. Initial arriving JUMP TO FILE # units found nothing 071116134 showing from the exterior of the building upon their approach, however; further investigation conducted on the interior of the building quickly revealed the cause of the fire alarm. Fire department personnel encountered a moderate smoke condi-
tion inside of the location when they entered through the main doors, which residents were also exiting from at the same time. First arriving fire department, Engine Company #6 from the Glenbrook Fire Station, radioed other additional responding units that a smoke condition had taken hold of the first-floor and a search was being conducted for the source of the fire. Additional arriving units prepared for water supply and also assisted with checking the remainder of the first-floor and the extinguishment of a small fire that was discovered in a rear condo unit, located in the center of the building. The fire was quickly extinguished but removing the smoke and ensuring that
no residents were injured required a longer time to accomplish. Operations remained at a firstalarm level with three engine companies, one ladder company and one rescue company operating with a total of 22 personnel, including additional support from the Stamford Emergency Medical Services for onscene stand-by. The Stamford Fire Department Fire Marshal's Division was summoned to conduct an investigation into the cause of the fire. Fire units began to be released after completion of extinguishment and control operations were released a little more than one-hour after the initial alarm. - MICHAEL TERENZIO
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
August, 2016
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August, 2016
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
5 Things to Consider When Entering the DROP THE INFORMED FIREFIGHTER “YOU PROTECT THE PUBLIC, WE’LL PROTECT YOUR FINANCIAL FUTURE” Whether or not to enter the DROP is a unique decision and one which should be considered carefully. For some, the decision is a foregone conclusion due to personal circumstances and an attractive plan design. For others, the decision is less obvious and involves a more thorough review of the costs and benefits. This article covers the most important points to consider when a sworn employee has decided to enter the DROP. The goal is to avoid the common pitfalls in the DROP-decision process and make informed choices that maximize the benefits offered within the pension plan and within the tax code. The first and most fundamental point regarding DROP is that it is an irrevocable decision. The one consistent feature in all DROP plans is that once the paperwork is completed, the employee is considered “retired” for all practical purposes. As such, his length of service is suspended, his final average salary is calculated, and he no longer accrues pension credits. When the DROP period ends (5 years typically), the member must separate from service. It is important to recognize that during the period between DROP-entry and DROP-exit, most plans suspend a member’s contributions. So if a firefighter had been contributing 7% (as required by the plan) to the pension prior to DROP-entry, his paycheck will effectively increase by 7% once he enters DROP. This is an ideal time to increase 457 (deferred comp) contributions by a similar amount (7%), since the employee would not “feel” any difference in his take-home pay. This would likely lead to a higher 457 plan balance at the end of the DROP period and be an important resource in retirement. In short, a firefighter has every incentive to increase 457 contributions at DROP-entry. Additionally, it would be an ideal time for a certified financial planner to review the member’s 457 allocation and consider rebalancing the portfolio to lower risk. A second point to consider before entering the DROP relates to timing. Ideally, one would enter the DROP after a pay-raise from a promotion, or perhaps right after a COLA (cost of living adjustment) is announced. This would maximize the member’s pension and therefore lead to a higher DROP balance at separation. It is important to time one’s exit from the DROP after the member turns age 50. Retiring any sooner may compromise the employee’s ability to access the DROP money without a 10% penalty. Per section 72(t)-10 rules, a member can exit the DROP in the year she turns 50 and not be subject to a premature penalty. This section in the internal revenue code deals exclusively with sworn employees and is a calendar-based rule, not an agebased rule. For example, say a chief is scheduled to exit the DROP in November of this year and anticipates a DROP balance of $350,000. Let’s assume she is presently 49 years old, but will turn 50 in December of this
year. Per IRS guidelines, if she takes a direct distribution for any amount in the DROP, she will not be subject to a 10% early-withdrawal penalty on the money. With proper planning, exiting from DROP should be a smooth process and not involve withdrawal penalties on the DROP balance. When entering DROP, another important decision a firefighter must make is choosing a pension payout. The retirement benefit one chooses is a personal decision based on factors such as risk tolerance, investable assets, and whether one is single or married. The default retirement benefit in most plans is 10- year certain. This benefit is paid to you for life, but you or your beneficiary will receive at least 120 monthly benefit payments in any event. Keep in mind that the period certain begins once a firefighter enters DROP, not at separation from service. So if a member is in DROP for 5 years, he has 5 years of period certain left when exiting DROP. Interestingly, this type of default retirement benefit or “normal benefit”, is not the most conservative option and therefore might necessitate additional life insurance to mitigate exposure to premature death. Other optional forms of retirement benefit include joint & survivor payouts. While of equal actuarial value as the normal benefit, these optional forms vary in degree of risk. The most conservative option is 100% joint & survivor and guarantees that a spouse will receive an unreduced monthly annuity in the event of a joint pensioner’s death. Other iterations of this retirement payout include modified monthly amounts that are 75%, 66 2/3%, or 50% of the primary pensioner’s benefit. Another thing to consider in choosing a retirement benefit relates to social security integration. Increasingly, this optional form of benefit is available in retirement plans. If you retire prior to the time at which social security benefits are payable, you may elect to receive a more level retirement income during your entire period of retirement by integrating your social security. Effectively, the city front-loads your pension by giving you a higher monthly amount and then reduces the pension once your social security payments begin. It is also a powerful way to turbo-charge your DROP, since it yields the highest monthly pension. However, many plans only allow social security integration if the member elects a single life annuity payout, a retirement income of a comparatively higher amount, but payable to you for your lifetime only (with no period-certain). A fourth point to consider when entering DROP is that you will no longer be eligible for disability benefits under most pension plans. As such, if a firefighter becomes disabled in the line of duty while in the DROP, he will not be eligible for benefits unless he has coverage in a private disability plan. Additionally, DROP participants are typically not eligible
for pre-retirement death benefits either. Given this fact, it is important to review insurance coverage prior to entering DROP to minimize exposure. A final point to keep in mind when entering the DROP is that most plans allow a firefighter to roll unused sick time and vacation time to a 457 account. This tax deferral strategy is ideal for those who have accumulated sizeable balances. Rather than taking a check for these benefits, an employee has the opportunity to defer immediate taxation until a later date. Also, given the favorable distribution rules for 457 plans, a firefighter can request drawdowns right after separation from service occurs. For example, say a chief enters the DROP and has accumulated $18,500 in sick time and vacation time. He decides
to have the city cut two checks: one to him for $5,000 to pay down debt and another for $13,500 to his 457 provider. So long as he doesn’t exceed federal guidelines on maximum contributions to the plan for the year, he can redirect the larger second check to his 457 account and take distributions on his terms. There are a lot of moving parts when it comes to DROP and making a mistake can be costly. All of the different rules present potential pitfalls, so leveraging a financial professional is essential. Consider contacting me to discuss your specific situation and I will design a comprehensive, customized plan for you and your family. Rick Palmer is a Certified Financial Planner™ and a recognized
expert on DROP. He manages money for sworn employees and hosts educational seminars on DROP across the state of Florida. He can be reached at: 2905 Bayshore Blvd Tampa, FL 33629, (866) 347-4482 and www.gotdropusa.com. ©2016 Raymond James & Associates, Inc., member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC
Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, CFP® (with plaque design) and CFP® (with flame design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board's initial and ongoing certification requirements.
©2016 Raymond James & Associates, Inc., member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
August, 2016
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August, 2016
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
Structure fire in Westport destroys barn Westport, CT - The Westport Fire Department received a call on June 24th at 10:20 P.M., for a fire in a barn. Friends and family of the barn owners were able to remove approximately 30 young cows from the barn. All other ani- JUMP TO FILE# mals from the barn 070616112 were also safe and accounted for. The first arriving apparatus found the barn well involved upon arrival. Initial efforts to save several nearby structures, including the barn owner's home, were successful due to the efforts of the Westport Firefighters. “Without a municipal water supply in the area, the crews needed to use the initial water carried on the engines to keep the exposed buildings cool until a more reliable water supply could be established," said Deputy Chief Allen Manley. Mutual Aid companies from all over Bristol County and neighboring Rhode Island were called to assist with shuttling water from the nearby Westport River. Once in operation, the tank shuttle was able to deliver nearly 2,000-gallons per minute, which is enough water to put two aerial ladders and several smaller lines into operation. A large storage area of fertilizer that was recently delivered to the farm was a concern for Westport fire officials, so the state's Hazmat Team was called in to provide air quality monitoring of the fire ground. The fertilizer was allowed to burn off rather than risk it impacting ground water and the river. The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), was also called to the scene to monitor water run-off from the firefighting operations and also provide the barn owners guidance for the cleanup to come. “The barn appears to be part of a series of other barns built over the years, with a now common roof, which allowed the fire to travel rapidly and remain undetected for some time," said Deputy Manly. The building, which covers approximately 32,000-square-feet, was completely destroyed. State Fire Marshal Perter Ostroskey, arrived on scene to help coordinate state recourse and offer support to the more than 50 firefighters operating at the fire. Investigators from the Marshal's office were also working with local investigators to try and determine the cause of the fire, which was thought to be accidental, according to Deputy Manley. Communities supporting Westport with additional resources were Tiverton, Fall River, Dartmouth Districts 1, 2 and 3, Little Compton, Lakeville, Somerset, Rehoboth, Middletown and Portsmouth. Fall River Special Services also worked with Westport Emergency Management to provide rehab for the firefighters. - ALLEN MANLEY
Scene of the fire that destroyed a 32,000-square-foot barn in Westport.
Firefighters work together to extinguish a fire that destroyed a barn in Westport.
PROVIDED
PROVIDED
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
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August, 2016
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
Firefighters from R-1 and E-2 fold back the roof of a van during a demonstration.
K. LEGER
Fall River Fire Museum holds 8th Annual Fire Truck Show
CAPT RDL
Oxford, MA - Oxford Fire-EMS Firefighter Jonathan Yursha, pictured in full PPE during a recent hazmat response on Interstate-395.
Fall River, MA - The Fall River Fire Museum held their 8th Annual Fire Truck Show on the glistening waterfront at Battleship Cove on June 26th. The show was held on the grounds of the Old Colony/Fall River Railroad Museum. Numerous antique and modern fire apparatus' were on display, along with the children's fire SAFE house that was open for tours given by the Bureau of Fire Prevention's fire inspectors. Many families with young children took advantage of the fire safety lessons being given inside of the trailer. Heavy Rescue-
JUMP TO FILE #062616109 1 arrived with Engine-2 to demonstrate a mock extrication on an overturned van. They stabilized the van using struts and wooden wedges before removing the glass and then proceeded to cut and fold back the roof in order to access the victim. The K-9 officer from the Bristol County Sheriff's Department put on a demonstration of a K-9 apprehending a suspect, who was dressed
One of the fire trucks on display at the 8th Annual Fire Truck Show.
in a padded suit. The highly trained German Shepard put on quite a show. Chainsaw Artist Michael Higgins, carved a mid-mount aerial ladder truck out of a six-foot long log that was later raffled off to one lucky winner. During the event, a 15-passenger van was used to transport interested parties to the future home of the Fall River Fire Museum, located about one-mile north of the waterfront. - KENNETH LEGER
K. LEGER
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August, 2016
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
Fall River Firefighters battle structure fire Fall River, MA - At around 1:20 P.M. on July 3rd, firefighters responded to a still alarm at 1069 Newhall Street. Engine-4 arrived and reported smoke showing. Car-3, under the command of Assistant Chief Matt Johnson, arrived shortly after and reported a workJUMP TO FILE# ing structure fire in a 070316103 one-and-a-half story, wood frame bungalow. Engine-4 attacked the fire with (two) one-and-three-quarter inch lines, while Engine-5 tagged a hydrant and fed a supply line to Engine-4. Ladder-2 was able to pull into the driveway, but was hampered by tree limbs and electrical service lines. Heavy fire began venting from the gable end of the roof, forcing Command to order an evacuation of the building until he could determine the stability of the roof. Command ordered a roll call of all fire ground personnel and once everyone was accounted for, he ordered firefighters onto the flat section of roof to put water onto the peaked section. After the heavy fire was knocked down and Command felt the roof was sound, firefighters resumed interior operations. Because of the high temperatures and humidity, Command ordered relief companies to the scene and began releasing first-due companies. Command also called for Special Services to respond with their Rehab Unit and Fire Investigators to begin origin and cause determination. - KENNETH LEGER
Firefighters put water into the gable end of the roof.
K. LEGER
Building fire extends and causes brush fire in Hopkinton Hopkinton, MA - The Hopkinton Fire Department was dispatched to Piazza Lane for a reported structure fire at 6:20 P.M. on June 26th. Ashland Tower-1 also responded to the scene. Engine-4 arrived to find a fully involved cottage with an extensive area of brush burning. A JUMP TO FILE# general recall was re- 062716130 quested, as well as off-road tankers due to the difficult access. A tanker shuttle had to be established to supply water to the scene. Multiple lines were stretched to knock down the rapidly spreading brush fire. The cottage, which was reported to be abandoned, was a total loss. Upton, Milford, Westborough and DCR 141 also assisted at the scene. Southborough provided coverage during the incident and all companies were on scene until the evening, wetting down hot spots. No injuries were reported and the fire is under investigation by HPD and MSP. - JIM FORTIN
JIM FORTIN JR
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
August, 2016
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August, 2016
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
Northern Illinois Fire Ground Photography Commemorative Edition
PETER LOBO JOHN SJOSTEDT
PETER LOBO
Ambulance accident in Falmouth Falmouth, MA - On July 11th, Ambulance-326 from Osterville Fire was involved in an accident with a car at the intersection of Route 151 and Currier Road. Three people were transported to Falmouth Hospital with unknown injuries. Falmouth Engine-23 and Ambulances 35 and 36 responded. The individual in the ambulance involved was also transported to the hospital.
JOHN SJOSTEDT
Units knock down Middleboro Landfill fire Middleboro, MA - Firefighters responded to the Middleboro Landfill for a fire on July 3rd. Mutual Aid from Carver, Plympton and Halifax was called in for a tanker shuttle and station coverage. Firefighters used hand lines and a blitz gun to attack the fire while front-end loaders spread the pile.
ON THE BOOK SHELF
by John Malecky
Northern Illinois Fire Ground Photography Commemorative Edition By Fire Department Photo Unit, Tom Olk Available from: FSP Books & Videos 188 Central Street, #4 Hudson, MA 01749-1330 1-800522-8528 E-mail: fire-policee m s . c o m www.fire-police-ems.com Price: $42.50 This is a hard cover coffee table book measuring 9 inches x 12 inches and has 120 pages. The author first began photographing fire scenes at the age of 13. He brought them to the fire station and met and assistant chief/investigator who eventually became his mentor. He educated himself and has had many photos in Fire Engineering, Fire Chief and Fire Rescue Magazines. You can read the rest of his colorful story on the inside cover...and then you can review his outstanding photos. I counted only one black and white photo. The rest are color and there are many to each page. The cover the cities and towns of Northbrook, Evanston, Gurnee, Rockford, Chicago, Joliet, Winthrop Harbor, Waukegan, Wheeling and Highland Park. Types of photos include fire scenes, apparatus at fires, a funeral, group shots of personnel and individual shots or firefighters and chief working, male and female firefighters, a posed shot of mobile ventilation units of MABAS (Mutual Aid Box Alarm System), accidents and other emergencies. These scenes reflect firefighting and emergency work in all kinds of weather. From a variety of angles both close up and from a distance, the quality is flawless! It is a book you would want to thumb through over and over again!
Visit us on the web! www.1rbn.com
August, 2016
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
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August, 2016
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
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FUTURE 1 RESPONDERS
MASSACHUSETTS
If you have photos you would like to see in our “Future First Responders” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
JAKE O'CALLAGHAN/CWN
Traumatic injury at beach requires Med Flight CAPT. RDL
Oxford, MA - Future Fire-EMS members Mehkenna and Bridget Plante on Oxford Tower-1.
Chatham, MA - An 18-year-old male suffered a traumatic injury after diving into the surf at North Beach Island. The accident occurred around 6 P.M. on Monday, July 4th. The Harbor Master and Chatham Fire and Rescue were able to reach the teenager and stabilize him on the beach. He was brought to the Fish Pier and then to Chatham Airport, where Med Flight was waiting to transport him to Tufts Medical Center in Boston.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
August, 2016
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August, 2016
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
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.
ALLEN MANLEY
Westport, CT - Mutual Aid companies from all over Bristol County and neighboring Rhode Island were called to assist with shuttling water from the nearby Westport River during a barn fire in June.
Marlborough, MA - Marlborough E-1, Northborough S-4 and State 14-1 at a recent brush fire in Marlborough.
JOHN SJOSTEDT
JIM FORTIN JR
Middleboro, MA -A Plympton Firefighter communicates with the pump operator while working a landfill fire.
JOHN SJOSTEDT
Middleboro, MA - Middleboro Engine-1 takes water from the water pool during a fire at the Middleboro Landfill in July.
JIM FORTIN JR
Stow, MA - Stow E-18 and Boxborough T-67 at a recent brush fire.
PAUL DOLNIER
Rochester, NH - A total of four tower ladders were in full operations at this six-alarm fire that destoryed three buildings in June.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
August, 2016
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August, 2016
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
August, 2016
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August, 2016
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
BOB LONG
MASSACHUSETTS
A/C MARK HASKELL
Gas fumes ignite boat fire Rehoboth, MA - On June 27th, the Rehoboth Fire Department responded to a boat on fire with possible exposure problems, located in a yard on Hornbine Road. Upon arrival, a 25-foot boat on a trailer was found fully involved. The boat was being serviced at the time by the homeowner when gas fumes ignited in the bilge. The owner jumped clear of the boat and into the yard, injuring his ankle. The boat was a total loss.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
August, 2016
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August, 2016
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
FACES OF NEW ENGLAND’S EMERGENCY SERVICES
To see your action shots in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com, email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com or mail them to 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore Street. New Windsor, NY 12553,
PAUL DOLNIER
Rochester, NH - The Rochester Fire Marshal briefing the local media as to the details of a fire that occurred inside of the Governor's Inn, a NH landmark.
CAPT RDL
Oxford, MA - Firefighter Jessica Prefontaine and Firefighter Scott Rudman of Oxford Fire-EMS.
JOHN SJOSTEDT
Plymouth, MA - Plymouth Deputy Chief Young at the scene of a nursing home fire in June.
CAPT RDL
JAY L. HEATH
Andover, NH -New London Firefighter Taylor Cochran takes a break at a three-alarm fire on June 25th.
Oxford, MA - Oxford Fire-EMS Captain Jon Belanger has been with Oxford Fire-EMS for almost 10-years, and has been a Captain for four-years. Captain Belanger is the lead of the department's fire training division and also a lead member of the department's Technical Rescue Team.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
The times they are a changing Chaplain's Corner Didymus McHugh
Back when I joined the fire service, we had the high boots, canvas coats, leather New Yorker helmets, fireball rubber gloves, and that was it. Now, a firefighter has a pair of boots inside bunker pants, bunker coat, hood, helmet with a suspension system, leather gloves and everyone on the fireground has their own portable radio. Now I look at the fire trade magazines and catalogs, and I just saw firefighter bulletproof vests. Wow! So many times we have seen war and riots overseas. Over the years, there has become something that is becoming a "new norm." Since Columbine, there has become a new environment of mass shootings. They happen in theaters, night clubs, schools, malls, churches, military bases, etc. Where is the safety? Did each event have mental health issues going on? This is definitely the “see something say something” era, and I hope that people actually do that. I do not care if someone wants to say that you may be profiling. If you say something, maybe someone who needs treatment or correct medication can actually receive it. Think seriously about taking a psychological first aid of mental health first aid course. I know that it may sound a little Utopian, but maybe we can help someone before they take someone’s life. If we say something early, maybe the police can help defuse the situation. We are supposed to love our neighbors as we love ourselves. I think that it is a shame that more people do not live that way, and you don’t have to go to my church to think that way. We use different terms these days to be politically
correct and soften the blow to what is going on. When I was working EMS, I used to go to things that people classified as riots but today it is known as “civil unrest." A fight used to be a fight, not an “altercation." When someone needs help, they need help. When someone is behaving erratically, help them to get the help that they may need. Caring about people is also caring enough to speak out. It's bad when fire and EMS have targets on their backs, causing the need for bulletproof vests. My heart also goes out to the police who have to wear the vests all the time. They also have to end someone’s life when that person is ending so many lives. There has also become a new term used, "suicide by police officer." In the emergency services, we take care of people of any race, color, creed, or orientation, and same thing goes for our fellow responders. Who cares what you are, just as long as you can do the job. I think that we, as emergency services, can teach the public how to act. So many emergency services are also involved in the community. All those who are coaches or scout leaders, or civic leaders or people who mentor the youth, or assist other people, raise your hands. Thank you for doing it. You have the power to change lives. By your acts, you may unknowingly change someone’s destructive behavior or thoughts. I strongly believe that each person is a walking encyclopedia. They have learned so much, experienced so much and have a wealth of stories. And when a person dies, usually, that entire library is lost. My mind goes to the youth of Sandy Hook, and how many of those lives did not get a chance to live to the plans that were set before them. Each life that is taken affects so many people. Please keep in your mind and prayers all those who are no longer with us, no matter their background, political view, or anything else that may be different than yours. A life is a precious thing. Lives matter.
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August, 2016
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ACTION SHOTS FROM AROUND THE STATES
August, 2016
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
To see your Action Shots in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
JOHN SJOSTEDT
Middleboro, MA - A Middleboro Firefighter connects the hose lines from a water supply during a fire at the Middleboro Landfill.
Sheldon, VT - Firefighters woking to extinguish a garage fire.
GREG RAMSDELL
JAY L. HEATH
Andover, NH - A Franklin, NH Firefighter battling a three-alarm fire in Andover.
JOHN SJOSTEDT
Plymouth, MA - A Plymouth Firefighter uses an axe to remove part of the exterior of the fire building.
JAY L. HEATH
Andover, NH - Franklin, NH Firefighters push into the attic space to control a threealarm fire in Andover on June 25th.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
August, 2016
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Vehicle News
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Lewiston, ME - Lewiston Fire Department's Engine-4 Pumper/Arrow XT/Rescue Pumper/Stainless Steel/Detroit DD13/Allison 4000 EVS P/750 GAL Poly/Waterous 1,500 GPM/Husky.
MINUTEMAN FIRE & RESCUE APPARATUS, INC.
Boxborough, MA - Boxborough FD’s Engine-61 Brush Truck/Ford F-550 4x4 Supercab/Pumper Mini/Aluminum/6.7L Power Stroke V8 Diesel/6-Speed Automatic/310 GAL Poly/Waterous 275 GPM - Diesel Pump.
Hingham, MA - Minuteman Fire & Rescue Apparatus was proud to build and deliver these two identical Pierce Impel pumpers to the Town of Hingham Fire Department. Engines 2 and 3 Pumpers/Impel Chassis/Pumper Medium/Stainless Steel/Cummins.
MINUTEMAN FIRE & RESCUE APPARATUS, INC.
MINUTEMAN FIRE & RESCUE APPARATUS, INC.
Henniker, NH - Henniker Fire Department acquired this Engine-2 Pumper/Arrow XT/Pumper Medium/Aluminum/Detroit DD13/EVS 4000P/1000 GAL Poly/Hale 1,500 GPM/Husky 3/Side Roll and frontal Impact protection, On Spot Chains.
St. Michaels College, VT - St. Michael's College Fire & Rescue acquired this Ambulance-1/Ford F-450/T1 Promedic/Ford 6.7L Power Stroke/Automatic/Six Point safety harnesses, Road Safety System by Zoll, cab air bags. The latest in a long line of Road Rescue vehicles in service with St. Michael's Fire and Rescue.
Hampton, NH - Hampton Fire Department recently acquired this Ambulance-1/Ford F-450/T1 Ultramedic/Aluminum/6.7L Power Stroke/Ford/Air Bags, 6 point harnesses.
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August, 2016
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
Second-alarm fire burns for twelve hours in Springfield Springfield, MA - A fire that broke out in a former factory building, which most recently housed the Massachusetts Career Development Institute, burned for more than twelvehours on Tuesday, JUMP TO FILE# June 27th. 062816115 Springfield firefighters were called to the address of 140 Wilbraham Avenue shortly after 9:30 A.M. for a reported structure fire in the vacant factory building. Companies arrived on scene to find heavy smoke pushing from the rear of the two-story construction building and began an aggressive interior attack on the fire. Conditions inside of the structure were deteriorating rapidly and twentyminutes into the operation, Command made the decision to back out and set up an exterior attack on the fire. Due to the size and construction type of the building, which covered nearly a fully city block in size, a second-alarm was struck to bring extra manpower to the scene, in hopes of preventing the fire from taking total possession of the building. Several hours into the operation, an unusual step was taken when a local demolition firm was called to the scene with one of their excavators to knock down a large portion of the center of the building. This knock down created a large fire break, helping to prevent
NATE ARNOLD
District Chief Murphy oversees operations as night-tour firefighters take over the scene from day-tour members.
the fire from burning the remainder of the building. It also allowed firefighters the opportunity to play master streams deeper into the fire building. The cause of the fire remains
under investigation, but all utilities to the building, including electrical, had been shut off since at least 2013. - NATE ARNOLD
NATE ARNOLD
Firefighter Greg Smith motions for the aerial on Ladder-8 to be raised.
JIM FORTIN JR
Smoking material causes fatal fire in Hudson
Hudson, MA - The Hudson Fire Department was dispatched to 15 Baben Road after a report of a smoke condition in the house. Companies were dispatched just after 10:30 A.M. on June 23rd. Crews arrived to find a heavy smoke condition in the one-story house, with little-to-no heat. Heavy heat damage was found throughout the house and the 76-year-old female resident was found deceased in the living room. The cause of the incident was found to be from careless disposal of smoking materials. Companies were tied up for the rest of the afternoon during the investigation. No other injuries were reported.
DAVE SAFRON
Rollover with gas leak in Easthampton Easthampton, MA - At approximately 6:30 P.M. on July 1st, Easthampton Dispatch started receiving numerous 911 calls reporting an MVA rollover, with a strong odor of gasoline present. A-1 and Engine-1 were dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, X-7 took Command and reported having two patients with minor injuries. A-1 transported one of the patients while Mutual Aid from Northampton Fire's A-2 transported the second patient. X-7 had a utility body pickup truck on its side, with gas from an overturned gas container leaking. Absorbent was applied and dyking procedures were initiated around a storm drain in order to keep fluid from entering a catch basin. At the time of the incident, all of Hampshire County was under a severe thunderstorm warning as well as a tornado watch, so the damming procedure around the catch basins were made priority.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
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August, 2016
MASSACHUSETTS
WOMEN IN FIREFIGHTING If you have photos you would like to see in our Women in Firefighting feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
ANTIQUE APPARATUS
If you have photos for Antique Apparatus please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
A firefighter working on the pumper's parts before a re-paint is done. Oxford, MA - Oxford Fire-EMS Firefighter/EMT Decelles.
CAPT RDL
ROBERT S ALLEN
Leominster, MA - Over a 10-month-period, an old hand-tub pumper, known as Union #2, was restored by hardworking and dedicated Firefighters Jon Williams, Jeremy Murphy, Eric Falk, Adam Studham and Andy Ciprotti, with assistance from Firefighters Kris Keckler and Carl Antobelli. Several local businesses also contributed work and materials toward the restoration and Union #2 is now back in service! Originally built in 1846, it was passed around for a number of years until 1970, when a group of firefighters, led by Capt. Greenwood, retrieved the unit.
CAPT RDL
Oxford, MA - Firefighter/Paramedic Jessica Prefontaine is a 17year-member of Oxford Fire-EMS. Jessica is best known for her work with the senior outreach program, community education classes and her work with the fire department's SAFE program.
ROBERT S ALLEN
Union #2 restored and rolling in the LFD FF Memorial Parade and Service on June 12th.
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August, 2016
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
FIRST IN PHOTO'S
Leominster Firefighters, led by the Dept. Chief and Deputies, starting the march.
JAKE O'CALLAGHAN/CWN
Rollover with serious injuries for Harwich FIRST IN PHOTO'S
Leominster FD holds 116th Annual Memorial Service
Leominster, MA - On Sunday, June 12th, the Leominster Fire Dept. held their Annual Firefighters Memorial Service at the Firefighters Monument, in downtown Leominster. City and State Officials participated in the service to remember all the past members of the fire department. This year, six more names of retired firefighters who passed on, were added to the monument.
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Harwich, MA - At around 8 A.M. on Monday, July 4th, a sole male occupant lost control of his Ford Explorer SUV, causing the vehicle to rollover and land on its roof. The accident happened in front of 182 Queen Anne Road. The young man was transported to Cape Cod Hospital by Harwich Fire and Rescue with life-threatening injuries. Harwich Police reconstruction team members were also at the scene, trying to determine the exact cause.
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
August, 2016
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NEW HAMPSHIRE
Three-alarm fire ravages Proctor Academy Andover, NH- A dormitory at a private boarding school was destroyed in a three-alarm fire on June 25th. The incident was dispatched at 3:30 P.M by Lakes Region Fire Mutual Aid Dispatch for a building fire. Firstdue firefighters JUMP TO FILE# 070316100 found the attached barn fully involved and spreading into the main house, a dormitory used by Proctor Academy. A second-alarm was then dispatched. Firefighters battled heat exhaustion and low water pressure at nearby hydrants as the fire spread into the dorm's attic, under a metal clad roof. A third-alarm was dispatched and the fire was brought under control a few hours later. Proctor Academy was founded in 1848 and has roughly 360 students, representing 30 states and 16 countries. It contained 19 dormitories before the fire, which is under investigation. - JAY HEATH
Firefighters battle heat and heavy smoke at this three-alarm fire.
A New London Firefighter working to open the attic.
JAY L. HEATH
JAY L. HEATH
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August, 2016
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
Fire guts apartment block in Holyoke Holyoke, MA - On Sunday, July 3rd, a fast moving fire gutted the top two floors of an occupied four-story construction building in Holyoke, displacing 40 residents. Holyoke firefighters were called to the address of 370 High Street at 11:00 A.M. for the reported JUMP TO FILE# structure fire. Jakes 070416105 had heavy fire venting from the top two floors of the building, on the "Alpha" and "Delta" sides. Engine Co.-2 would have been the seconddue engine at this fire, but was out of service due to low manpower. Short one engine company, Command was forced to call mutual aid to the scene for additional manpower. After a brief interior attack on the fire, members were forced to back out of the building. They set up master streams from the exterior to darken down the main body of fire before re-entering the building. Overhaul then began on what was left of the third and fourth floors while also checking for hot spots. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Holyoke Fire Department and the state Fire Marshal's office. - NATE ARNOLD
NATE ARNOLD
NATE ARNOLD
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
STAYING SAFE
Chief Henry Campbell
This article first appeared when I first started writing this column, Staying Safe, 15-years-ago. I repeated it six-years-ago with slight modification, and feel it still holds true today as a leading cause of firefighter injury and death. It can serve as a refresher for senior firefighters and as a safety lesson for newer firefighters. Lack of concentration is when the mind wanders and we stop paying attention to the tasks at hand. This is usually when unsafe acts resulting in injury can occur. If injury should occur, the individual generally doesn’t have a plausible explanation, due to the lack of concentration. Many of us respond to motor vehicle crashes where one or more of the drivers have no idea as to what may have caused the crash. Why not? Because they were not concentrating on their driving. They were busy talking or texting on their cell phone, eating, applying makeup, shaving, or whatever else. Unfortunately the most important task, that of driving, is getting the least attention. The same holds true in emergency services. Lose your concentration with the task at hand and you increase your risk of injury or death. Be aware of your surroundings and what is going on and remain alert and focused to the task at hand, prepared for all consequences. When you have been operating under difficult circumstances, extreme weather conditions, or any other reason that might impair your concentration for a long period of time, notify your officer and obtain relief. There are two types of fatigue, which are physical and mental. Both can lead to injury and/or death if there is no intervention and rest. Poor judgment is like guessing, and there is no room for guessing at the emergency scene. Evaluate the task that has to be performed and if you are not sure as to what to do in order to handle or mitigate a situation, or how to perform a specific task, stop and seek help. Do not look at emergency incidents or individual tasks through “rose colored glasses," because the situation may not be as simple or safe as it appears. Expect the unexpected by being prepared for all eventualities! Whether the incident commander or individual firefighter, always ask yourself “what will happen when I do this?” For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction, and you must be prepared for it. Be truthful and think what the worse possible scenario is. Can the ladder fall? Will the rope break? Is the roof unsafe? Has the floor burned through?, Can we make an offensive attack? Will the car roll? What
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MASSACHUSETTS
The Human Factors, a Contributing Factor in Firefighter Injury and Death, Part II
will happen when I force this door or break this window? What risks are involved? Can I achieve my desired goal? When we ask our self “what will happen when I do this?” we must evaluate the end result and the risks involved. If the risks are too great for the task to be completed safely, we must eliminate or reduce the risks as much as possible in order to increase the margin of safety. This may require changing the strategy or task being deployed and if so, go ahead and do it. Remember, there is more than one way to skin a cat. I am fully aware that risk is a constant companion in our business, but risks can be reduced, if not eliminated altogether, to make for a safer work environment. Risk a lot to save a lot, risk little to save little! Contributing to the Human Factor as a cause for unsafe acts with the increased potential for injury and death is lack of training or insufficient training. All personnel at the emergency scene may not have the same level of training and experience, and therefore should not be expected to perform at the same level. Company officers and IC’s should be aware of individual FF/EMT’s experience and training, and assign tasks accordingly. The emergency scene can be good learning ground for inexperienced personnel, where they can observe and assist in performing tasks and assignments under direct supervision. If direct supervision cannot be provided, they should not be assigned any task beyond their level of training. In today’s real world where staffing levels or daytime response may not provide sufficient on-scene personnel, the tendency may be to use the inexperienced FF/EMT to perform unsupervised tasks beyond their level of training. Avoid doing this. You may have to reassign individual tasks, or wait until a more experienced FF/EMT becomes available. Additional skills required to operate specialized pieces of equipment should be learned on the training grounds or back in the station, not at the emergency scene. Untrained FF/EMT’s operating power equipment that they have not been certified to use could prove disastrous in more ways than one. Training and experience are the backbone of any safe operation, and it is equally important for each FF/EMT to be aware of their qualifications and experience. The FF/EMT should also know their limitations, recognizing what is beyond their training and experience, and not be embarrassed or ashamed to inform their officer when those circumstances arise. Remember, in the beginning you don’t have to be able to do everything! Learning and gaining experience takes time and if you maintain a proper attitude toward safety, you will have a lifetime of learning. To be continued next month. Till next time, stay safe and God Bless!
August, 2016
B SPRAGUE
One house and two garages destroyed by fire
Lawrence, MA - On the afternoon of July 6th, Lawrence Fire Alarm started getting calls for a fire located at 290 High Street. Upon arrival, first-due firefighters encountered heavy smoke and fire in the rear of the structure. Due to the densely populated neighborhood, firefighters evacuated several homes that were in close proximity to the fire. The fire destroyed an unoccupied home as well as two adjacent garages. There were no injuries reported.
Plymouth Tower-1 crew opening up.
JOHN SJOSTEDT
Fire breaks out in nursing home Plymouth, MA - Firefighters responded to the Stafford Hill Assisted Living Facility for a fire on June 20th. Firefighters arrived on scene, advanced a line and quickly extinguished the fire. Firefighters were tied up for an extensive period of time, checking for extension. There were no injuries to any of the residents due to the fire.
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August, 2016
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
Tractor trailer rollover at construction site in Holbrook Holbrook, MA - Around noon time on the afternoon of Friday, July 8th, the Holbrook Fire Department responded to a report of an overturned vehicle at the "Holbrook Sportsmen's Club," located at 180 Quincy Street. Companies arrived to find an JUMP TO FILE# eighteen-wheeled 070816119 tractor trailer dump truck on its side. The driver of the vehicle was trapped. Command requested mutual aid from Brockton for assistance with the extrication. Brockton Squad-A, the TSU and the Deputy Chief (Car56) responded. Prior to Squad-A's arrival, Holbrook firefighters were able to extricate the victim from the cab of the vehicle. Holbrook's ambulance transported the victim to the South Shore Hospital. Leaking fuel coming from the truck was a cause of concern for companies on-scene. Companies remained on-scene for several hours while the vehicle was turned up-right. The cause of the accident is under investigation. - PAT TRAVERS
Holbrook's ambulance transporting to the South Shore Hospital.
PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
MEET OUR CORRESPONDENTS If you have photos you would like to see in our “Meet Our Correspondents” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
RON JEFFERS
"Damien Danis has been a correspondent for the NJ edition of 1st Responder Newspaper since our very first issue in 1993. He has been a member of the Saddle Brook Fire Department for 25-years, holding the positions of Chief Engineer, Lieutenant and Captain and currently holds the position of Engineer once again. He has been a member of three truck committees and was also Co-Chairman of the department's 100th Anniversary Parade. Damien said, “I have also had the honor of holding the position of President for the New Jersey Metro Fire Photographers Association for three terms.”
Firefighters disconnect after filling up a COMM Tanker.
JOHN SJOSTEDT
Multiple-alarm brush fire in Sandwich Sandwich, MA - Firefighters spent multiple days at the end of June battling a multialarm brush fire that was located on Route 130, behind the Coca Cola Plant. Firefighters faced many challenges while battling the fire due to the topography in the area. Brush Breakers from multiple towns were called in to battle the fire and wet down hot spots over a course of three-days.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
August, 2016
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August, 2016
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE