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MAN PERISHES IN HOUSE FIRE
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- Page 31
GREG RAMSDELL
Fairfax, VT - On April 11, 2014 at approximately 4:10 p.m., firefighters from Fairfax, Georgia and St. Albans Town Fire Departments responded to a house fire on Main Street in Fairfax that claimed an elderly man’s life.
- Page 31
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June, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
June, 2014
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VERMONT
GREG RAMSDELL
First responders respond to rollover Swanton VT. On April 26th, Missisquoi Valley Rescue (MVR) Swanton Village Fire Department, Swanton Police Department, and Vermont State Police (VSP) responded to a one vehicle rollover with the vehicle on it’s side on Route 78, West of the Campbells Bay Road. There were only minor injuries and no transport of patients. It was raining at the time of the accident and the roads were wet. The cause of the accident is under investigation by VSP.
GREG RAMSDELL
An MVR worker looks on while Highgate Firefighters put out the burning plane.
Stunt pilot parachutes from plane before fiery crash Highgate VT. On April 18th, Highgate Fire Department, Missisquoi Valley Rescue units 1 and 2 (MVR) with mutual aid from Swanton Fire Department responded to a fiery plane crash on Interstate 89 near milemarker 125 northbound. An acrobatic stunt pilot in a single seat plane parachuted out of the plane before it crashed and burned. The pilot was found on the frontage road in Highgate dangling from a
®
JUMP TO FILE #042014111
tree. Swanton firefighters responded with their ladder truck and got him down safely. Highgate firefighters responded to Insterstate 89 to the crash site. MVR Unit 1 responded to the Frontage Road with Swanton firefighters, where the pilot was and
MVR Unit 2 responded to the crash site with the Highgate firefighters. Numerous law enforcement agencies also responded. After the fire was put out, Interstate 89 was opened up to one lane. The plane crash is under investigation. The pilot escaped with only minor injuries and refused transport to the hospital. - GREG RAMSDELL
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June, 2014
VERMONT
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
Fairfax, VT. On April 11, 2014 at approximately 4:10 p.m., firefighters from Fairfax, Georgia and St. Albans Town Fire Departments responded to a house fire on Main Street in Fairfax that claimed an elderly JUMP TO FILE # 041214102 man’s life. When firefighters arrived at the scene, the structure was fully engulfed. It was learned that there were two occupants inside the residence at the time the fire started and only one escaped the fire. Vermont State Police Fire Investigation Unit and a d etective were called to the scene to conduct an investigation. The body was located inside the structure and transported to the medical examiners office to determine cause of death and confirm identification. The investigation determined that the fire was accidental and the death doesn't appear to be suspicious. - GREG RAMSDELL GREG RAMSDELL
Fully engulfed
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CORPORATE INFORMATION 1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New England edition - Vol. 19, No.6 - 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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GREG RAMSDELL
Truck misses deer, hits power pole Swanton, VT. On April 11th at approximately 1:03 p.m., Missisquoi Valley Rescue (MVR), Swanton Fire Department, and the Vermont State Police (VSP) responded to Bushey Road for a pickup truck versus pole. The operator of the truck was travelling northbound on Bushey Road when he swerved to avoid a deer. The driver lost control and hit a power pole with a transformer on it, breaking the pole. The pole then landed on the truck. Power had to be shut off by Swanton Electric. There was one minor injury with no transport. The Vermont State Police are investigating the cause of the crash.
MICHAEL CURTIN
Burlington Engine Co. 2 operating at a small fire downtown
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
June, 2014
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June, 2014
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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 Jersey: Joseph Edward Bove, III, 53 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: March 13, 2014 Death Date: March 13, 2014 Fire Department: Spotswood Fire Department Initial Summary: Firefighter and ex-fire chief Bove responded with his fire department to a report of a smell of gas at a home in a multi-unit residential housing complex. After shutting off the gas and clearing the incident, Bove went home and shortly thereafter collapsed from a cause of injury still to be reported. Firefighter Bove was treated and transported to the Old Bridge Regional Hospital where he succumbed to his injury.
Massachusetts: Michael R. Kennedy, 33 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: March 26, 2014 Death Date: March 26, 2014 Fire Department: Boston Fire Department Initial Summary: While operating in the basement of a burning multiple unit residential structure, Lieutenant Walsh and Firefighter Kennedy died from injuries sustained when they became trapped by fire conditions. Investigation into the fatal incident, which also injured many other firefighters and several police officers, continues by local authorities.
Alabama: Wayne O'Neal Jeffers, 64 Rank: Captain/EMT Incident Date: March 15, 2014 Death Date: March 16, 2014 Fire Department: South Montgomery County Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: Within 24 hours of responding to a motor vehicle accident with the South Montgomery County Volunteer Fire Department, Captain Jeffers passed away from a nature and cause of fatal injury still to be reported.
Massachusetts: Edward J. Walsh, 43 Rank: Lieutenant Incident Date: March 26, 2014 Death Date: March 26, 2014 Fire Department: Boston Fire Department Initial Summary: While operating in the basement of a burning multiple unit residential structure, Lieutenant Walsh and Firefighter Kennedy died from injuries sustained when they became trapped by fire conditions. Investigation into the fatal incident, which also injured many other firefighters and several police officers, continues by local authorities.
Indiana: Tom D. Stevens, Sr., 59 Rank: Assistant Fire Chief Incident Date: March 16, 2014 Death Date: March 17, 2014 Fire Department: Bright Volunteer Fire Company Initial Summary: Several hours after returning home from an emergency response call with the fire department, Assistant Fire Chief Stevens suffered an apparent heart attack. Responders from the Bright Fire Company were summoned and treated Chief Stevens then transported him to the Mercy Harrison Medical Center (Harrison, OH), where despite all efforts he succumbed to his injury.
West Virginia: George Underwood, 64 Rank: Fire Chief Incident Date: April 2, 2014 Death Date: April 2, 2014 Fire Department: Lake Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: Fire Chief Underwood responded to a call of localized flooding that was affecting residential properties in the community. While attempting to clear a blocked culvert with a hose line, Underwood fell ill and collapsed at the scene from an apparent heart attack. Chief Underwood was treated by responders and transported to the hospital where he succumbed to his injury.
Pennsylvania: Edwin J. "Lance" Wentzel, 57 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: March 16, 2014 Death Date: March 17, 2014 Fire Department: Youngwood Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: While participating in a search operation along railroad tracks for a missing woman, Firefighter Wentzel was struck and killed by a train. Investigation by authorities continues into the fatal incident.
West Virginia: Hugh Ferguson, 52 Rank: Fire Chief Incident Date: April 21, 2014 Death Date: April 21, 2014 Fire Department: Damon Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: While working to establish a water supply at the scene of a vacant residential building fire, Fire Chief Ferguson collapsed from an apparent heart attack. Fellow responders immediately rendered assistance to Ferguson and transported him by Life Flight to the Memorial Hermann Hospital where he succumbed to his injury.
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
June, 2014
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June, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
Avoiding Burnout EMS ISSUE CHELLE CORDERO
More of us in Emergency Medical Services are coming around to the understanding that coping with “bad calls” may take a CISD intervention. But what about the stress we face every day just showing up for work. We have no idea what we’re going to face, what challenges wait for us, whose life we will save and whose life will be beyond our help. EMTs and paramedics have tremendous responsibility, confining parameters in which to work, and split second decisions that we’ll probably have to spend time defending. One of the biggest causes of burnout in any stressful job is lack of peer and management support. For paid EMS professionals there is the matter of a salary, which is often much too low to support our families. For volunteer EMS professionals, there is the feeling of being taken advantage of by municipalities and administrators that see us as no more than free commodities. When we feel like we are standing out there on our own without someone truly having our back and the skill set we worked so hard to master goes unappreciated it becomes easy to lose our desire to do our jobs. Management can play an important part in keeping an EMT or paramedic excited to show up at work and feel good about what they do. Pairing professionals with regular partners, so long as they are compatible, can help. If the partners are not compatible and the availability exists, change the team dynamic. Partners who are used to each other will come to know how their teammate works and will have a good idea when to step in to help and when to step back. Peer support from both partners and other members of the company will go a long way to diffuse selfdoubt and stress after a bad call. Management can help foster
comfortable inter-agency relationships by sponsoring occasional non-EMS activities like softball teams, bowling leagues, holiday parties, etc. Building good relationships between agency members can help reduce the need to gossip and spread rumors about each other, which contributes to tension and can hasten burnout. Our families should be able to provide a healthy respite from the pressures of work, but our jobs are not always easy to talk about and work out with loved ones who have no involvement in emergency response. Coming home after a traumatic day at work and not being able to talk to someone who can relate adds frustration and even more stressors. Once again management can help by hosting events where nonEMS family members can attend, get some insight into what EMS is about, and get to meet the people that the EMT/Paramedic needs to count on professionally. Many of the insecurities that spouses experience when their loved one needs to spend time with coworkers can be alleviated a bit when the coworkers are no longer the unknown. And getting to know your boyfriend or girlfriend’s partner will often go a long way to dispelling jealousies and fears. Poor management in an agency breeds discontent among personnel, lack of support and concern for each other and a hostile environment. Low pay and a need to prove oneself to feel appreciated can lead to longer work hours (overtime), a lack of sleep, chaotic eating habits, and less commitment to your own personal needs. If the EMT/paramedic feels burnt out, they can lose interest in social fun and healthy exercise which would otherwise help to relax and refresh. Finding ways to change poor management, low pay, lack of appreciation, long hours, irregular eating and sleep patterns, and a restricted fun, social life should be a joint project that includes administrators, team personnel, and family in order to make a more productive, efficient and healthier EMS provider.
Submitting photos and press releases is EASY! Register at www.1rbn.com
VERMONT
GREG RAMSDELL
Firefighters respond to sugar house fire Swanton, VT. On April 18th at approximately 1:45 a.m., the Swanton Fire Department, AmCare Ambulance, and mutual aid from Highgate, and St. Albans Town Fire Departments responded to the scene with tankers and manpower. The departments arrived at Woodshill Road for a fully involved sugar house fire. Phillipsburg QC responded to Swanton’s station for coverage. The sugar house was destroyed by the fire. There were no injuries and the Vermont State Police Fire investigator was called to the scene to determine the cause of the fire. Swanton Police Department also responded to the call.
GREG RAMSDELL
Third structure fire in Franklin County in two days
to begin posting directly. Prefer emails? Email your press release and photos directly to heather@1strespondernews.com
Fairfield, VT. On April 12th at approcimately 10:12 a.m., the Fairfield Fire Department was called out to Pond Road in Fairfield for a garage fire. While enroute, they were updated that a nearby house was now on fire. Sheldon, St. Albans Town, and Bakersfield Fire Departments aided Fairfield at the fire. AmCare Ambulance was on standby at the scene with paramedics. According to the Fairfield fire chief, the fire started in the garage from sparks from a lawnmower. With the gusty winds, it spread to a nearby home and also to a pickup truck. The smoke could be seen for approximately ten miles. There were no reported injuries. This was the third structure fire in two days in Franklin County. The fires were not related. 60 percent of this house was damaged by the fire.
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
June, 2014
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June, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
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June, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
RHODE ISLAND
Basement fire in Central Falls Central Falls, RI. On April 24, 2014 at 3 p.m., Central Falls Fire received a call for a house fire at 109 Cross Street. Companies arrived on scene to smoke showing from a two and a half story wood JUMP TO FILE # frame. Crews re- 050614107 ported to command that they had fire in the basement. The fire was knocked down with one line. The fire requested mutual aid from Pawtucket, Lincoln, Cumberland and North Providence. - BRIAN HARDY BRIAN HARDY, BIGDOGFIREPHOTOS.SMUGMUG.COM
House fire in Pawtucket Pawtucket, RI. On April 29, 2014 at 3 p.m., Pawtucket Fire received calls for a house fire at 16 Day Street. The fire department arrived on scene to heavy smoke and fire showing from sides one and four. Mutual aid from East Providence assisted at the scene. The fire was knocked down with three
JUMP TO FILE #050614110
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1st Responder Newspaper - NE
June, 2014
PAgE 13
RHODE ISLAND
BRIAN HARDY
Multiple alarm in Central Falls
NICK ZABAWAR
RIT training in Warwick Warwick firefighters spent the last couple of weeks practicing rapid intervention team training and using several recently abandoned apartment buildings in Warwick, RI. After a pre-drill brief, companies were dispatched to a simulated building fire. While firefighters were extinguishing the fire and performing search and rescue, a firefighter became trapped and the RIT teams were sent in to find the firefighter. The evolution was complete when the downed firefighter was found and brought out of the building. Two training sessions were scheduled on April 24, 2014. The afternoon training session involved crews from Engine 2, Engine 4, Engine 8, Ladder 3, Rescue 2, and Battalion 2.
Central Falls, RI. On May 7, 2014 at 4:00 p.m., Central Falls Fire received calls for a house fire. When companies arrived on scene, command reported smoke showing from a two and a half story wood frame. Multiple ladder pipes and large lines were used to knock down the fire, which eventually went to three alarms. The Red Cross was called in to assist the occupants of the building.
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PAGE 14
June, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
RICK KULMANN
Early morning fire damages Bethany home EDWARD PRESCOTT
Early morning accident in Norwalk The Norwalk Fire Department responded to an early morning accident on Interstate 95 Northbound, between Exits 16 and 17, at 5:00 a.m. on April 15th. The accident involved a tractor trailer truck striking another tractor trailer that was parked on the shoulder just beyond entrance 16 northbound. The tractor trailer that struck the parked trailer was carrying twenty bundles of rolled paper
JUMP TO FILE #041714113
weighing 2,400 pounds each. The compromised trailer split open from the collision, which caused the trailer to buckle under the weight of cargo and come to rest under the Strawberry Hill Avenue bridge. Several rolls of paper weighing up to 600 pounds, that fell out
of the trailer, were moved by firefighters and state troopers to free up a lane to get traffic moving. The highway was reduced alternately between one or two open lanes as Nat’s Towing worked to remove the trucks from the highway. The driver of the truck that was parked suffered minor injuries and was transported to Norwalk Hospital. - EDWARD PRESCOTT
In the overnight hours of April 26th, Bethany firefighters were alerted of a house fire at 4 Simpson Court. Upon arrival, heavy fire was showing from the B side and the rear of the two story dwelling. Mutual aid was called in from Beacon Falls, Prospect, Woodbridge and Seymour. Firefighters used two and a half inch hand lines and a deck gun to bring the fire under control. Crews remained on scene for extensive overhaul after the fire was extinguished. The cause and origin of the fire are under investigation by the fire marshal.
Hot Shots ON THE BOOK SHELF by John Malecky
RICK KULMANN
Several people injured in Waterbury MVA At approximately 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, April 30th, Waterbury emergency services responded to West Main Street near Thomaston Avenue for a car that hit a passenger van with several occupants. Multiple police officers responded along with Engine 6 and three ambulances from AMR to the scene. The occupants of both vehicles were checked out with some being transported to the hospital with minor injuries.
Hot Shots Spectacular Fire Photos Edited by Harvey Eisner Available from: FSP Books & Videos 188 Central Street, #4 Hudson, MA 017491330 1-800-522-8528 E-mail: support@fire-police-ems.com www.fire-police-ems.com Price: $16.95 This book is soft cover and has 98 pages of color photos. It is the Firehouse Collector’s Edition. The editor is Editor-in Chief of Firehouse Magazine and retired assistant fire chief of the Tenafly, (NJ) Volunteer Fire Department. The title of the book is not to be confused with the elite
Hotshots wildland firefighters. However, many of the fires that are shown here may have had Hotshots fighting them. The book is a compilation of photos that were shown in Firehouse Magazine as well many that were submitted, but were not used. These are all high quality photos submitted by many photographers from across the country. The photos are divided into seven groups: Wildland Fires, Aerial Operations, Highway Fires, Commercial Fires, High Rise Fires, Residential Fires and Roof Operations. Each chapter has a brief explanation for the layman to understand particulars about the category. The photos are of varying sizes ranging from small to two pages in width. The fires are both in large and small cities and towns. Most of the wildland fires and in California. One can almost feel the heat in many of them! The book is dedicated to all firefighters and the photographers who capture their battles later to be printed for the world to see. It is a book well worth the cost!
Read more columns from John Malecky at www.1rbn.com
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
June, 2014
Page 15
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June, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
Two victims extricated in Waterbury multi car MVA Just after 8:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 24th, Waterbury firefighters were dispatched to Lakewood Road between the lakes for a three car accident with rollover. Upon arrival, Engine 1 had two cars with heavy damage and another vehicle rolled over JUMP TO FILE# into the guardrail 042414106 with two victims trapped. Engine 1 requested an upgrade to an extrication response, which brought out Truck 2 and Rescue 9 from the nearby Northside firehouse as well as three ambulances to the scene. It took a few minutes to extricate both people and they were transported to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries. The road was closed for an hour so the cars could be towed from the scene. - RICK KULMANN
If you have photos you would like to see in our All in the Family feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
PROVIDED
Mary Jean Donovan and her daughter Jennifer Pittman of the Quinebaug Volunteer Fire Department
The rolled over vehicle against a guardrail
RICK KULMANN
RICK KULMANN
The barn was burned to the ground and the homes heavily damaged.
Several mobile homes burn in East Windsor Just before 1:00 a.m. on Friday, April 18th, firefighters from Warehouse Point and Broad Brook fire companies in East Windsor were dispatched to Elm and Main Streets for a large tobacco barn on fire called in by a police officer on patrol. Upon the fire chiefs arrival, the barn was fully involved and the fire was spreading to several mobile home trailers in the Red Hill Park
ALL IN THE FAMILY
JUMP TO FILE #041814101
Community twenty feet away. Six propane tanks that service the mobile homes were burning. Mutual aid was called in from Enfield (Engine 12), South Windsor (two engines), and from Windsor Locks (one engine and ladder truck). Three ladder trucks were uti-
lized to fight the fire from above. Several nearby mobile home s nearby were evacuated as the fire spread to six trailers. It took firefighters almost an hour to knock the fire down and there were no injuries reported. The red cross is assisting the displaced tenants. The cause of fire is under investigation. - RICK KULMANN
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
June, 2014
PAge 17
CONNECTICUT
Southington responds to MVA rollover on Interstate 691 On Thursday, May 1st, Southington firefighters and Connecticut State Police responded to Interstate 691 West prior to Exit 3 for an MVA rollover. On arrival, Car 3 had one vehicle that JUMP TO FILE# rolled over and 050114109 landed against a rock ledge on the side of the highway with a couple people injured. There was also a secondary accident at the scene involving a state trooper vehicle and a tractor trailer with no injuries. Engines 11, 31, and Rescue 1 responded to the scene along with two ambulances from AMR. - RICK KULMANN RICK KULMANN
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June, 2014
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
MARIE BRENNAN
RICK KULMANN
Waterbury MVA injures two people Just after 9:00 AM on April 24th, Waterbury emergency crews responded to Wolcott Street near the Wolcott town line for a 2 car accident that sent two people with minor injuries to the hospital, On arrival rescue engine 1 and police had a mid size car that rear ended a pickup truck and did substantial damage, no extrication was needed and the accident backed up traffic for a short time.
Correspondent Contest Sponsored by KIMTEK Corporation The readers of 1st Responder Newspaper have helped make www.1rbn.com the fastest-growing Fire/Rescue/EMS site on the web. Information comes from our valued correspondents. Each time you post an entry on our website, your name will go into a drawing for a monthly prize. Only web entries are eligible. The prize for our June editions from KIMTEK is a Viper Wildland Nozzle. Our May editions winner of the Pierce logo jacket from Fire & Safety Services was Keith Addie of NJ. If your company would like to provide a prize and sponsor our monthly contest, contact Heather at 845-534-7500. Viper Wildland Nozzle 1” Swivel Product #ST1530-PV • Wildland and utility nozzles all have fog, straight stream and tun-past-straight-stream-shutoff • Have a protective rubber bumper • Can be used as a “break-apart” • Constant flow 30 gpm “break-apart nozzle with pistol grip and tip twist shutoff
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House fire in Eastford The Ashford Fire Department and Eastford Independent Fire Company were the first to respond to a fully engulfed house fire on Ashford Road in Eastford, CT on April 17. The two story log cabin was located in the woods several hundred feet from the road. Due to the remoteness of the house, a large number of tanker trucks from several surrounding fire departments took turns hooking up the the Eastford Fire Department pumper truck to supply water to the scene. They gathered water from a stream near the Hole in the Wall Camp in Ashford. Fire departments from Chaplin, Rogers, Woodstock, Willington, Pomfret, Hampton, Mansfield and Killingly assisted.
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
June, 2014
PAgE 19
CONNECTICUT
EDWARD PRESCOTT EDWARD PRESCOTT
Basement fire in Norwalk The Norwalk Fire Department responded to a basement fire at 18 Reservoir Avenue this morning, May 5th, at 12:47 a.m. The two story, two family home had heavy smoke showing from the rear of the home as firefighters arrived. Firefighters quickly advanced hose lines to the basement and first floor to extinguish the fire, as crews search the home. The owner, who lived on the
JUMP TO FILE #050514108
first floor, was woken up by the second floor tenants that smelled the smoke prior to the house becoming charged with smoke. The house had to be posted unfit for occupancy, due to the fire and heat damage to the water pipes, and electrical wiring.
The owner sought shelter with a neighbor and the two occupants of the second floor were staying with relatives. 24 firefighters responded to the fire with three engines, two trucks a rescue and command car. Fire Inspector Luca Feola is investigating the cause of the blaze. - EDWARD PRESCOTT
Rapid intervention training in Norwalk Norwalk firefighters trained at removing (simulated) unconscious firefighters from windows inside the new fire headquarters on Connecticut Avenue. The training, through grant monies, taught the latest techniques for rapid intervention should a firefighter become injured or unconscious inside a burning building. Connecticut Fire Academy instructors were able to teach the classes within the new buildings training area, during a heavy rain storm. In the past with the heavy rains outside, training would have been cancelled for safety purposes.
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June, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
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1st Responder Newspaper - NE
June, 2014
PAgE 21
CONNECTICUT
Fully involved tractor trailer
EDWARD PRESCOTT
EDWARD PRESCOTT
The Norwalk Fire Department responded to a fully involved tractor trailer truck on Interstate 95, this morning, May 8th, at 11:30 a.m. The truck traveling southbound JUMP TO FILE# on I-95, stopped in 050914111 the slow travel lane just beyond the merge from the Route 7 connector. The flames were quickly knocked down within ten minutes and firefighters continued to cool the smoldering remnants of the tractor cab and motor for several minutes. The shipping container the truck was carrying was empty. The saddle tanks of the tractor, which contained 100 gallons of diesel fuel combined, were cooled in time by hose streams and fortunately stayed intact. A Connecticut DOT crew and sand truck were called in to assist with some motor fluids that mixed with the rainfall on the highway. The storm water culverts to the Norwalk River were checked for fluids from the fire and none were found. The highway southbound and the entrance from Route 7 connector were shut down or reduced to one lane for an hour as emergency crews worked the scene. Firefighters and DOT crews cleared the highway of melted debris and Parkway Auto Body towed the truck from the highway. Three engines responded to the scene to assist with water supply and manpower. Fire Inspector Tom Raila is investigating the cause of the fire.
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- EDWARD PRESCOTT
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June, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
MUTUAL AID GORDON WREN
An excavator demolishes the burned out structure.
RICK KULMANN
Waterbury firefighters battle house fire At 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 10th, Waterbury firefighters were dispatched to 284 Hillside Avenue for a structure fire. On arrival, firefighters had a three story multi family dwelling with heavy fire on all three floors and a second alarm was struck. Engine's 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, Trucks 1, 3 and Rescue Engine 1 (along with Rescue 9), Car 5 and Battalion 2 responded to the scene. Firefighters used several hand lines inside and outside to battle the blaze, but the windy conditions made the fire difficult to put out. The fire spread rapidly through-
JUMP TO FILE #04114114
out the building and firefighters evacuated before the roof caved in. The three front porches collapsed as well. Two vehicles and a telephone pole in front of the building along with a large dumpster in the neighbor’s driveway was also engulfed with fire. Command ordered a defensive attack to battle the inferno and requested mutual aid for station coverage from Naugatuck and
Watertown. The fire was under control an hour later and completely extinguished by 4:00 p.m. The intense heat melted siding on the exposure buildings and across the street. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the marshals office and the building was destroyed. A wrecking crew was called in on Friday to demolish the structure. Eleven people were displaced and needed assistance by the Red Cross. - RICK KULMANN
The fact that you are reading this column means that you probably read other fire related publications and books-I do too. In fact, I usually open a magazine and go right to the letters to the editor to see what other readers thought of past stories. However, with Firehouse Magazine, I usually start with the last page in each issue in order to read what former FDNY Battalion Chief John Salka, Jr. has to say in his column "The Fire Scene." I have known and been a fan of Chief Salka for many years. He is the real deal as far as being an experienced firefighter, a tested and respected leader and quality individual. I have never met any firefighter who served under him who did not speak highly of him. He started as a volunteer firefighter and loved it so much that he chose it as his career. He has served as a career chief and a volunteer chief, and his articles and his classes are designed to be applicable for both volunteer and career firefighters. His column in the May issue of Firehouse is no exception and is one that should be read by every officer and firefighter because it applies to every department/company and every firefighter no matter what their role is or where they serve. The title of May's column is "Making Mistakes - And Correcting Them. Learning from mistakes can help us operate more safely." John acknowledges that we all make mistakes. However, in the field of firefighting, making a mistake can result in serious injuries or death. He emphasizes how important it is to acknowledge when
a mistake is made at an incident, discuss it and find ways to keep from making the same mistake again. Chief Salka describes one of his methods for approaching a firefighter, who he knows made a mistake at an incident, without making them defensive. He states, "This discussion can and should be done in a constructive manner and is often best accomplished by asking questions rather than making statements. For example; 'So, Frank, did you have any trouble with the nozzle or moving down the hallway?' If you know there was some difficulty during that process, you are letting Frank talk about it and provide perspective on the issue. Asking people about how things went opens the door for a good effective and corrective discussion." He also recommends these type of discussions take place almost immediately either at the scene next to the apparatus or back at the firehouse. He states that waiting five weeks for a future drill in a volunteer department or a future shift for a career company will not have the same impact that having it immediately will have. He emphasizes repeatedly that correcting mistakes is an important element of running a good, safe and effective team. He recommends staying sharp and well trained so that you will be able to recognize tactics and behaviors that need correcting - good advice! After finishing Chief Salka's column, go to page 16 and read the article written by Scott Goodwin. Lieutenant Goodwin has written one of the best summaries on firefighters taking care of themselves so they can do their best that I have read in quite some time. Take a few minutes and read both of these articles and keep reading 1st Responder for more ideas on how to make yourself better at what you do.
Additional columns by Gordon Wren can be found on our website at www.1rbn.com
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
June, 2014
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June, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
Safe Ladder Operations Part 3
RICK KULMANN
Newington Engine 3 changes color for a good cause In the month of April, Newington firefighters at Company 3 changed the color of their Engine 3 from red to pink to raise awareness and raise funds by selling T-shirts to support the new cancer center for The Hospital of Central Connecticut. The project broke ground in October of 2012 and the completion date is unknown at this time. The new cancer center will be a two story 70,000 square foot building on nine acres of land on the New Britain and Plainville town line being built by the Tomasso group and will cost 40
JUMP TO FILE #041614100
million dollars to build. The location of the cancer center can be seen from Interstate 84 East and Westbound in the area of the Tilcon Tomasso quarry. The apparatus was outfitted with pink vinyl wrap by Signs Now in Newington and cost $10,500 dollars for entire job, paid for by the department and the following sponsors: The Hospital of Central Connecticut,
The Greater Hartford Jaycees, Signs Now in Newington, Turnpike Motors Auto Body in Newington and Data Mail in Newington. It took several days to outfit the apparatus in the Company 3 firehouse. The vinyl can be peeled off and will not damage the original red paint underneath. The members of the department will be keeping the truck pink through the month of October. - RICK KULMANN
RICK KULMANN
Two car MVA in Wolcott At approximately 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, April 17th, Wolcott police, fire and ambulance responded to the intersection of Todd Road and Garrigus Court for a two car accident with in,juries. An off duty EMT who lives on the property where one of the cars crashed into a patch of trees, checked on the occupants of both vehicles and found that there were no injuries. The other vehicle, which was an extended van came to a stop on top of a rock wall on the side of the road.
When carrying tools up a ladder, the number of tools carried should be limited to one, and consideration to size and weight must also be given. If it is too bulky or heavy, another method should be deployed for accomplishing the task such as use of an aerial platform or hoisting the equipment by use of ropes. When climbing a ladder with a tool, the tool should be slid or pushed along the beam, remembering that there is a compromise to your safety, as you do not have a good grasp on the ladder with the hand-holding the tool. Overloading of ladders should be avoided. The newer ladders give detailed information on the weight loading permitted on the ladder and all personnel should comply with this information. The rule of thumb has always been one firefighter on a straight wall ladder and one firefighter per section on an extension ladder, and it is still a good rule of thumb. When more than one firefighter is climbing a ladder, a ten-foot distance between firefighters should be maintained. There rarely is a reason for firefighters to be bunched up on a ladder unless affecting a rescue. In a rescue situation, it is advisable to place another ladder immediately adjacent to the first ladder and have a second rescuer assist from the second ladder. This will provide for better control of the victim and a safer environment for all concerned. The last thing you would want to do is have a ladder collapse or lose control wherein everyone falls to the ground. It has happened! Flat roof operations require the use of a minimum of two ladders placed at opposite locations of the building in order to provide for alternate means of escape should one exit route become blocked. Ladders placed to flat roofs should extend a minimum of three feet above the roofline so they may be readily visible and accessible for firefighters operating on the roof. It is a good practice to paint the last couple of feet on the top of the ladders in a bright or fluorescent color to enhance their visibility. Painting the tip also makes it easy to tell the fly from the butt when the adrenalin is rushing or for those who may have difficulty discerning the top from the bottom. When working on a peaked roof, a roof ladder with hooks
STAYING SAFE Chief Henry Campbell
should be used. The hooks should be opened and the ladder slid up the roof into position, followed by a test pull of the roof ladder to ensure the hooks have secured to the ridge and the ladder is firmly in place prior to using. A roof ladder should extend from the ridge to beyond the eaves if at all possible. In the event there is a roof collapse, the ladder will maintain its position rather then falling into the opening. Once again work from the windward side so that fire and smoke are blown away from you, not towards you. Getting on and off the ladder are two critical periods in the use of ladders. When climbing onto a roof, fire escape, etc. make sure where you intend to go is stable and will support you prior to transferring to the location. Feel with one hand or a tool to check for sturdiness, follow this by placing one foot slowly onto the roof while increasing the pressure. If it appears to hold your weight, move the second foot onto the roof, followed by releasing the grip on the ladder with your other hand. At any point in the transition, should the roof feel insecure, get back on the ladder. Always be sure there is floor or roof where you intend to go, and be careful when attempting roof access on some of the older buildings in the downtown areas. Many have high parapet walls in front with a big drop to the roof, therefore look before leaving the ladder. In addition, you will be faced with having to find another way down from the roof if you haven’t been injured from the fall. Regular maintenance of all ground ladders is required and they should be thoroughly checked, including rungs, pulleys, and halyards. Annual testing in accordance with NFPA Standard 1931, Design and Verification Tests for Fire Department Ground Ladders is recommended. Till next time, Stay Safe and God Bless! - HENRY CAMPBELL
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June, 2014
Page 25
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June, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
APPARATUS IN ACTION
MASSACHUSETTS
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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
RICK KULMANN
Litchfield CT Ladder 1 and Engine 1 work at a five alarm fire in Torrington, CT
K LEGER
Heavy fire vents from roof
Fire destroys restaurant in less than one hour in Fall River GREG RAMSDELL
Swanton (VT) Fire Department’s 13E2 on the scene at an MVA
Fall River, Ma. At 6:00 p.m. on May 3rd, Fire Alarm Dispatch toned out a still alarm response for a reported fire in a restaurant. Car 2 under the Command of District Chief James Bernardo responded to the Mesa 21 Restaurant located at 21 Lindsey St. While en route, Car 2 was notified by dispatch that police were on scene with flames showing and all staff and patrons evacuated. Car 2 arrived and reported a working structure fire with heavy smoke and fire showing. Engine 2 began interior fire attack while Engine 12 secured a hydrant and fed Engine 2. Reserve Ladder 5, with the
JUMP TO FILE #050414104
crew from Platform 1 set up in front of the building and began water tower operations. Command called for an engine company to respond for water supply and a engine company for a RIT team. Seconds later, command called for a second ladder company to respond taking the fire response to a two alarm fire. Ladder 4 responded and set up on the D side and put their water tower into operation. Heavy fire and flames shooting 20 feet into the air consumed the second floor and
roof from the rear and traveled to the front, where the entire roof collapsed into the building. Chief of the Department Robert Viveiros, arrived along with fire investigators, who began interviewing restaurant staff to try to determine how the fire started. Staff reported, "the fire alarms went off and we got everyone out as quickly as possible." In just over an hour the roof was gone and the building was gutted. Units remained on the scene for several more hours chasing hot spots. - KENNETH LEGER
GREG RAMSDELL
Fairfield (VT) Engine 2 at a structure fire in Fairfield County
NICK ZABAWAR
Warwick (RI) Ladder 3 at recent RIT training on April 24th
K LEGER
Ladder 5 repositioned
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
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June, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
“Better Living – Longer Laugh your way to the bank with Living” A Beginner’s a stand-up comedy fund-raiser Checklist… FIREFIGHTER FITNESS Lori Ann Hodgkinson
We all want to Live Better and Live Longer. Although there is no “one way to accomplish this (and certainly no guarantees) – keeping it simple has been working best for my newest of clients. Change is good – yet it’s never easy. For my beginner clients – keeping it simple and sticking to the basics has been the best way to make life changes possible and probable. Once they have made these basic changes, they are able (as well as motivated) to move on to incorporate more specific parameters of health and fitness. Here’s a simple checklist to get you started in the right direction to healthier living. Chances are you will feel better, look better and be on your way to improving your lifestyle. No need to get caught up with all the details or bog yourself down with tons of rules. Start simple – once you get rolling you can get more specific to keep yourself on track. Drink plenty of water. It’s surprising how many people fail to drink more than a glass or two each day. If you are one of those people add a glass each day until you reach eight per day. In warmer temperatures (or if exercising heavily), you may need even more. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Even if you are struggling to eliminate poor food choices, add more fruits and vegetables. Not only are they healthier for you, but increasing them may help you to eventually ditch many of those foods that are sabotaging your health. You may feel fuller as well as lose some of those nasty cravings. Are you consuming two to two and a half cups of vegetables everyday and two cups of fruit as well? If not, pick it up a bit!
Limit fats and refined sugars. This is nothing new to you. Be more conscious of the foods you eat, and work towards decreasing the fat, sugar and salt you consume. Move more! Devote 30 minutes nearly every day to physical activity. Go for a walk, take a bike ride, swim or whatever you like and/or find convenient. Try not to get caught up in duration or intensity at first. Just move on most days every week. Manage stress. Most of us have trouble with this one. Find your happy, relaxing place and go there – physically and mentally. You can meditate, or not, whatever it is that soothes your mind and body. Is it a massage? Maybe. Is it a nap on the beach or fetch with your dog? Choose the best way to de-stress and do it regularly. Unwind! Moderate alcohol consumption. Of course, clients frequently tell me that consuming alcohol is a method of stress management. I hear ya, but as with anything and everything - moderation is key. Be smart and recognize the dangers of over consumption. Don’t smoke. Please, Please Don’t Smoke! If you are a smoker - quitting smoking is quite possibly the single most effective lifestyle change you can make to improve and lengthen your life! Are there more specific guidelines to consider when establishing your Health and Fitness regime? Absolutely! What I’ve found with my beginners (or those looking to renew their fitness efforts) it works well to start with two basic rules, begin and continue. This checklist gets you started. Once you have mastered these simple principles you will be in a better place to incorporate the more specific changes needed to help you accomplish all your health and fitness goals. Remember to have your physician’s approval before beginning any exercise program. Stay Safe - - - - - Begin…..and Continue………..
Who needs to laugh more than the Fire Companies ---the first responders who deal with dangerous circumstances each and every day? There’s an innovative concept for fund-raising developed by Joey Novick, who is a stand-up comedian and the Fire Commissioner in his hometown: Stand-up comedy shows. Fire companies can get much-needed laughs and profit financially as well. Novick's company, ComedyWorks, provides all-star headline comedians from HBO, Comedy Central, Showtime, Last Comic Standing, and the Tonight Show. Novick’s been producing comedy shows since 1977, and has experience producing shows with such comedians as Jerry Seinfeld, Rosie O’Donnell, Larry The Cable Guy, and Tim Allen. "The comedians were very funny, and very professional," wrote Mark Bruhmuller, Fire Chief of the Churchtown Fire Company of New York. “Joey Novick did an excellent job. Everybody loves to laugh, and it's a great deal of fun." ComedyWorks produces more than 300 shows a year, almost 150 of those for emergency service organizations. The money these shows can
VENDOR TIDBITS Notes from the emergency service business community
raise varies, depending on things like the number of tickets sold, how they're priced, the amount spent on promotion and whether food and drink are available. "Mostly companies produce shows in their own facilities, which may hold 300–400 people," says Novick. "We'll put together a show for them that will bring in comedians from major comedy clubs, with a headliner from HBO, Comedy Central, or the Tonight Show. The feature performer will be someone who's headlined the comedy circuit: Catch a Rising Star, the Improv, the Comedy Store. The host of the show will be a comedian who's very high-energy, like a gameshow host, to get the audience warmed up. A triple headliner show!” The Somerset Fire Company of New Jersey produces two fundraisers a year through ComedyWorks. "We've done about ten shows so far, and it's been great," says Mike Rein-
beck, who coordinates the shows for the 65-member volunteer department. "A friend of mine who had used Joey told me, 'This guy books really good acts.' So, we did the first show, everything was great, and we've been doing shows with Joey ever since." "I find their people to be very funny," agrees Adam Hubney, chief of the Atlantic Highlands Volunteer Fire Department in New Jersey, which books comedians through ComedyWorks for its annual dinner. "We have a professional comedy club in our county, and the quality is just as good." Comedy Works provides a 30-page ‘How-To’ guide that assists organizations through the comedy show production and warns of mistakes to avoid. "We make sure they follow everything in the guide," says Novick. "If a company has never done this before, it gives you everything from you need to know. We make sure that things get done right. Clients who follow the guide always do very well and tend to make money.” For information on Comedy Works, call 1 (888) 782-4589, go to www.comedyworks.org or e-mail joeynovick@earthlink.net.
Comedyworks Entertainment! Stand-up Comedy Show Fund-raising Comedians from HBO, Showtime, Comedy Central, Last Comic Standing, The Tonight Show
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Additional columns by Lori Hodgkinson can be found on our website at www.1rbn.com
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1st Responder Newspaper - NE
June, 2014
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June, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
1ST IN PHOTO'S - ROBERT S ALLEN
Strong winds give Leominster firefighters a challenge in knocking down house fire A late monday morning fire on April 14th at 11:15 a.m. caused heavy damage to a small one and a half story wood frame dwelling on 5th Avenue in Leominster. One person was asleep in the house at the time and woke up to find flames at the rear of the house. The winds had driven across the yard and ignited a shed and fencing at the rear of the dwelling. Leominster Fire Department responded with E3, 4, L2, R1, C2, and 18C. The working fire was sounded, bringing in E2, R2, Fitchberg E4, and the heavy rescue. The fire was quickly knocked down by E3, 4, and L2 crews as heavy winds made for a touchy situation. A long hydrant line of approximately 600 feet had to be dropped for the nearest hydrant, which was around the corner and down the street. The fire in the house involved the cellar, home, and attic areas. Weather service showed gusting winds at the time of 40 mph.
EMERGENCY AIRCRAFT If you have photos you would like to see in our Emergency Aircraft feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
JOHN SJOSTEDT
Duxbury fire captain promotion Duxbury, MA. Duxbury Fire Captain PJ Hussey was sworn in on Monday, April 7th. Captain Hussey is a 19 year veteran of the Duxbury Fire Department.
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June, 2014
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Heroes Mortgage Program and Heroes Realty work hard to help emergency services community For more information about the mortgage program or to check out these properties Robyn will work hard to help ease your mortgage process
Robyn Clancy prides herself on, among other things, customer service, attentively working with a diverse group of clients. She is there to guide them through the mortgage process, answering questions, phone calls and emails, while providing support whenever they need it. She wouldn’t have it any other way because Clancy’s work is her passion and nothing means more to her than her contributions to the Heroes Mortgage Program. Sun Home Loans and 1st Responder converged to create the Sun National Bank Heroes Mortgage Program. It is dedicated to serving the mortgage Robyn needs of the firefighter, police resClancy cue and EMS community, providing discounted fees, first-rate customer service and low interest rates not available to the general public. For Clancy, working with these brave men and women is a privilege. After all, they provide her with much of her inspiration for the work she loves and performs so well. Clancy will always be dedicated to the firefighters who came to her aid when her house in Fairlawn, N.J. burnt down on Feb. 24, 2011. At the time, Clancy was on crutches following hip and knee surgery, and barely made it out of the inferno alive. One of her lasting memories is seeing a volunteer firefighter on his way to work stop, get out of his car and run into the blaze to make sure everyone was safe. “It still blows my mind,” Clancy said. “Everyone is running out and they are running in. To just see how hard those men and women work, it makes me want to work so hard for them. Sometimes, they need help like I needed help. I spend my days trying to give back. My mission is to find loan solutions that suit their individual needs. They are in good hands with me because I treat them like family.” Clancy was touched by gestures by the Fairlawn Fire Dept. after her home was destroyed. At the time, her mom was battling cancer in a local hospital, and died less than a month later. Firefighters brought Clancy meals, gift cards and clothes, and even put her up for a few nights in a hotel. Talk about a lasting impression. Every time she works with someone in the emergency services community, she can’t help but think of those grueling times, which were eased by the special people from the Fairlawn Fire Department that helped her. Clancy goes out of her way for her Heroes Mortgage Program clients, especially when it comes to credit issues, finding a way to help them get approved for a mortgage. As proud as Clancy is to serve them, Sun Home Loans is proud of her.
Call 877-541-HERO
19 Alden Street, Wallington, NJ ... $375,000 2 Family, 3 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms
*** Special Incentives for Heroes ... call for details *** All this house needs is for a buyer to make it their own with a personal touch. Well cared for two family home on large lot with parklike yard and large detached two car garage. Prime location, not in flood zone! Renovated in
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869 York St., East Rutherford, NJ ... $449,900 *** Heroes Exclusive Listing ***
Property size is 110 x 110 - oversized level lot - tree lined street. Well maintained ranch featuring large EIK, LR w/fireplace, 2 bedrooms, full bath. Full finished basement with bonus room/rec room, laundry room and full bath. Three car detached garage - oversized driveway (8+ cars). Attention builders - potential two, 2-family homes. Near Meadowlands, NYC transportation, schools, parks/shopping. Flood zone but never flooded.
46 Hathaway St., Wallington, NJ ... $325,000 *** Heroes Exclusive Listing *** Two Family, 4 Bedrooms, Fully Rented!
Two family home located on a quiet street, in a quiet neighborhood. First floor features kitchen/dining space, living room, 2 bedrooms, full bath. Second floor features kitchen/dining space, living
room, 2 bedrooms, full bath. Unfinished basement with hook-ups for washer/dryer, separate utilities. Two car garage. Both units are currently rented. Flood zone.
Heroes get a discounted rate on this rental! $200 Savings A Month For Heroes! This apartment building located in West New York, NJ, features four 3-bedroom apartments which are currently being advertised for $2,400 per month and a 1-bedroom apartment which is being advertised for $1,850 per month. They are newly renovated and close to schools, parks, shopping centers, Boulevard East, Hoboken and Edgewater. Heroes can deduct $200 per month from the advertised price!
‘Heroes Certified’ apartments available in West New York, NJ
Local hero heads up the team at Heroes Realty
Martin Kaczmarczyk practically grew up in the firehouse and his family has served bravely in different capacities for generations. These days, Kaczmarczyk proudly carries on the family tradition. Kaczmarczyk is a career firefighter with the Bloomfield (N.J.) Fire Department and volunteers in the Wallington (N.J.) Fire Department, where he served as Chief the past three years. That’s what you call a hero and Heroes Realty is proud to have Kaczmarczyk on our experienced team of real estate salespersons. When he isn’t fighting fires, Kaczmarczyk works for Heroes Martin Realty. He shrugs off the so-called Kaczmarczyk hero status, but he’s certainly passionate about working in the firehouse, and with Heroes Realty. Heroes Realty works with heroes and their families across the country with a variety of real estate transactions. These selfless men and women include firefighters and EMT’s, police officers, members of the armed services, healthcare professionals – including doctors, nurses and support staff – and educators. “You want to help anyone you work with, but these men and women lay it on the line for all of us every day,” Kaczmarczyk said. “You want to try to go above and beyond for them, especially since I can really relate to them. I was working with a police officer on a transaction and he said ‘I can’t believe you run into burning buildings.’ I can’t believe he would go into a dark alley looking for someone who might have a gun. Just to have a positive influence on their lives means a lot, whether it be a police officer, a firefighter, an EMT or a veteran.” Shortly after graduating high school in 1995, Kaczmarczyk joined the Wallington Fire Department. He has served ever since and was chief last year. He became a member of the Bloomfield Fire Department in 2007. It's important for me to serve and help others in their time of need,” Kaczmarczyk said. “When they call, they need help. Their lives and the lives of their loved ones may be in danger. They could be losing all of their possessions, family photos, family heirlooms, or even their homes.” Whether you are looking to purchase a new home, sell the one you are in for the best price possible, or are even looking to rent or lease a quality home or apartment, Kaczmarczyk and Heroes Realty has opened its doors to provide personal real estate services to all of the Heroes in our community. Heroes Realty is dedicated to the longterm success and financial well-being of all of our clients. We understand how hard you work and the sacrifices you make. Let us work hard for you!
PAGE 32
June, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
ED CABRAL
NATE ARNOLD
View from the A side of 37-43 Milton Court
Fire heavily damages four family dwelling, sends two residents to hospital A late night kitchen fire extended to the rest of the apartment, gutting it and heavily damaging the rest of a four family dwelling in the Indian Orchard section of Springfield, Massachusetts. Companies were toned out for the reported structure fire at 37-43 Milton Court shortly before 10:30 p.m. and first due Engine 5 and Ladder 5 arrived to find heavy fire venting from the middle of an occupied four family single story dwelling. Engine and Ladder 5, the only two companies in this isolated, far eastern neighborhood of Springfield
JUMP TO FILE #050314113
operated on scene by themselves for several minutes before the second and third due companies could arrive. Even after special calling an additional engine above the working fire assignment, Springfield firefighters had the bulk of the fire knocked down within 15 minutes. Two residents of the apartments were transported to local hospitals, one of whom, an elderly female resident, re-
portedly suffered a heart attack. No update on the residents' condition was available. According to executive aide to the Fire Commissioner, Denis Leger, the building sustained upwards of $40,000 damage and all residents of the building will be relocated temporarily while the Springfield Housing Authority makes repairs to the building. The arson squad determined the cause of the fire to be food left unattended on the stove. - NATE ARNOLD
ED CABRAL
Working house fire brings commuter traffic to a stop Framingham residents commuting this morning, April 29th, at the intersection of Route 126 and Route 30 in Framingham MA witnessed fire crews on the scene of a working house fire that was reported at approximately 8 a. m. at 209 Cochituate Road. The fire was well involved on the second floor of a two and a half story structure when firefighters arrived on the scene. Firefighters had the blaze under control within 45 minutes after arriving at the fire. The fire is under investigation and it is unknown if there were any injuries at press time. NATE ARNOLD
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
June, 2014
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June, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
ACTION SHOTS FROM AROUND THe STATe To see your action shots in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
BRIAN HARDY, BIGDOGFIREPHOTOS.SMUGMUG.COM
Firefighters on the scene of a two alarm boat fire at the Cranston Yacht Club (RI)
BRIAN HARDY, BIGDOGFIREPHOTOS.SMUGMUG.COM
Command at the scene of a basement fire in Central Falls, RI
NICK DADALT
Firefighters Tom Giordano (left) and Robert Moynagh (right) utilize the “Jaws of Life” to demonstrate auto extrication.
MARIE BRENNAN BRIAN HARDY, BIGDOGFIREPHOTOS.SMUGMUG.COM
Working the interior at a house fire on Day Street in Pawtucket (RI) on April 29, 2014.
Firefighter Kevin Gaudreau attaches the hose to a tanker truck from Atawaugan Fire Dept. (Killingly) as his brother Jim Gaudreau, fellow firefighter for the Williamsville Fire Engine Company holds the hose.
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
June, 2014
PAge 35
MASSACHUSETTS
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Explosion in Orleans Orleans, MA. A small explosion at a home sent one man to Cape Cod Hospital with burns on his face and hands on April 18th. Two plumbers were at 148 Pochet Road when a propane tank exploded. Orleans Fire and Rescue treated one male at the scene and transported the other. A minor fire was put out by the plumbers before the firefighters arrived.
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June, 2014
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 or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
RICK KULMANN
Several firefighters work at a recent five alarm fire in Torrington, CT.
MARIE BRENNAN
Firefighters from Chaplin head for the fire to assist and relieve firefighters already on the scene in Eastford.
RICK KULMANN
The captain of Newington (CT), Craig Stegmaier, (not in turnout coat) and some of his firefighters.
BRIAN HARDY, BIGDOGFIREPHOTOS.SMUGMUG.COM
Firefighters work at a multiple alarm in Central Falls, RI
MARK OMASTA
The Danbury Fire Department gang
BRIAN HARDY
Firefighters at the scene of a house fire on April 29th in Pawtucket (RI)
June, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
MAINE
PAGE 37
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JOHN SJOSTEDT
Kingston, MA. Firefighters from Kingston Fire Department responded to Elm Street at the bridge for a gas leak. First arriving units found an active gas leak at a construction site. Firefighters began evacuating buildings in the area. The road was closed down and blitz guns were deployed to protect the area. NSTAR Gas secured the leak without further incident.
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PAGE 38
June, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
NICK DADALT
Lt. Matthew Roderick (Red Helmet), Firefighter Jason Kelly, and Sturbridge CERT volunteers demonstrate flammable liquid fire extinguishment PETER LOBO
Jeep takes down wires Falmouth, MA. On April 22, 2014, a woman and son were injured after her Jeep cut a utility pole in half. They were taken to Falmouth Hospital by Ambulance 37. The utility pole she hit also took down wires and two other utility poles, which fell on top of two homes. Engine 21 checked some burned area of the trim on one home with no extension.
Sturbridge Fire Department’s Open House a success Sturbridge, MA. On April 19, 2014, the Sturbridge Fire Department held a highly successful Open House at the Sturbridge Public Safety Complex. The well-attended event drew citizens of all ages to the department where fire department personnel were eager to show their professional talents and services that they proudly provide to the community. Every aspect of the fire department’s mission was well represented today including auto-extrication, emergency medical services, fire extinguishment, and fire prevention/risk reduction.
JUMP TO FILE #042114120
Chief David Zinther recognized the need to open the doors to the department to the public in a meaningful way, allowing anyone to come in and interact with personnel and to see their firefighter and EMS resources on display. Personnel gladly volunteered their own time to make this event a success. Events of the day included auto extrication and mock rescue of a trapped victim under a vehicle utilizing rescue equipment; a live fire
demonstration with the help of Sturbridge CERT volunteers; fire and injury prevention demonstration by Firefighter/EMT-I and SAFE Coordinator MaryLou Volpe; as well as tours of equipment and apparatus. Volunteers and community partners that helped with this event are too numerous to mention, however the Sturbridge Fire Department and Chief Zinther would like to extend our most sincere thanks to all who helped and attended today’s Open House. We look forward to holding such an event regularly. - NICK DADALT
PATCHES If you have photos you would like to see in our Patches feature please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
JIM FORTIN JR
Brush fire contained in Marlborough The Marlborough Fire Department dispatched Engines 2, 1, Tower 1, Rescue 1 and Car 2 to the area of Elm Street and Leonard Drive for a large amount of outside smoke. Upon arrival, companies found about quarter of an acre of brush on fire. Multiple hand lines were stretched to keep the flames away from a house. Engine 3 was dispatched to the scene for manpower. The fire was extinguished in 30 minutes and all companies were clear within an hour of the initial call.
RICK KULMANN
Boston Engine 33
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
June, 2014
PAgE 39
MASSACHUSETTS
PETER LOBO
Tree falls disrupting traffic Firefighters from Engine 1, 3 and Rescue 1 in Weston, MA responded to a tree that had fallen on a car. When they arrived, high winds had toppled a large pine tree that fell across a heavy traveled Route 20. The tree also took down primary power lines, which fell on two cars. One driver had to remain in his car for nearly an hour until NSTAR could shut the power off. Traffic in both directions was diverted creating a massive traffic jam, both on Route 20 and backing up for miles on Route 128/Interstate 95 southbound.
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PAGE 40
June, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
MATTHEW CARTER
PETER LOBO
Car flips on side in Waltham Waltham, MA. On April 24, 2014, Engine 1 and Squad 5 responded to a car on its roof at the intersection of Adams and Maple Streets. Firefighters stabilized the car and confirmed that no one was still in the car. There were no injuries in this two vehicle accident.
Two alarm fatal fire in Waltham At 3:09 a.m. on Friday, April 4th, Waltham 911 received a call from a passerby reporting a building fire at the corner of Crescent Street and Brown Street. Engine 1, Squad 5, Rescue 6, Ladder 2 and Engine 4 (RIT) responded along with a Cataldo medic. Squad 5 reported smoke showing from the third floor and began stretching a line while other companies secured a water supply. Residents reported there were still people in the building. Rescue 6 did a primary search and found one person on the second floor and
JUMP TO FILE #040814100
another on the third. Both were brought outside and treated. Deputy Macinnis put the RIT team to work and requested an additional engine (Engine 2) as RIT. Ladder 2 vented the third floor window while Squad 5 advanced a line into the fire apartment. The fire had extended into the ceiling of the third floor and into the attic. Deputy Macinnis ordered a second alarm bringing Engine 3
and Ladder Tower 1 to the scene. Companies quickly knocked down the fire, but were tied up with extensive overhaul. A body of a male in his 50's was discovered in the third floor apartment. Eleven people have been displaced and are being assisted by the American Red Cross. The State Fire Marshal has determined the fire was caused by careless disposal of a cigarette and the smoke detector in the fire room was dismantled. - MATTHEW CARTER
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1st Responder Newspaper - NE
June, 2014
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June, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
June, 2014
PAgE 43
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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
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City of Marlborough (MA) Engine 3 at a recent brush fire
PAGE 44
June, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
Incense burns Chicopee home the day before Easter Unattended incense is being blamed for heavily damaging a single family dwelling in the Fairview section of Chicopee on the day before Easter. Chicopee jakes were called to respond to 247 Langevine Street just before noontime for a reported structure fire with 358 (Chicopee Fire Dispatch) advising companies they had received multiple 911 calls. Due to multiple emergency calls that had come in before the fire call, almost all of the first alarm assignment companies were responding from a distance. This added several more minutes to what was already an extended response to the far Northwestern portion of this city. In spite of this set back,
JUMP TO FILE #042014102
Chicopee firefighters mounted an aggressive interior attack on the fire, stretching hand lines through the Alpha and Bravo side entrances and making quick work of the fire in this one and a half story cape style dwelling. The residents were not home at the time of the fire, but several pets needed to be rescued by firefighters including a dog, cat and some pet fish. The home sustained some $85,000 damage according to Chicopee Fire Deputy Chief J. Crevier. - NATE ARNOLD
NATE ARNOLD
Members overhaul the A/D corner of the roof at 247 Langevine St.
IN SERVICE 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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
JAKE O'CALLAGHAN/CWN
Truck versus tree in Harwich Harwich, MA. A medical condition may have been the cause of this one vehicle accident on Queen Anne Road Sunday, May 4th around 3 p.m. The 83 year-old driver lost control of his Toyota Tacoma smashing into a tree. Harwich Fire Captain Joseph Mayo examined the wreckage. The elderly man was transported to Cape Cod Hospital by the Harwich Fire and Rescue. Harwich Police are investigating the cause.
NICK DADALT
The Sturbridge Fire Department Flag decorates Ladder-1 at their recent open house
June, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
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June, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
JOHN SJOSTEDT
JOHN SJOSTEDT
MCI/CO incident with Medflight in Kingston Kingston, MA. Firefighters responded to a report of a CO incident with victims. First arriving units evaluated the occupants and determined one subject was in critical condition. Multiple other patients complained of symptoms. Medflight was called and a Level I MCI was declared. Firefighters checked the CO Levels in the house and found levels between 180-300ppm.
JUMP TO FILE #050814138
A 19 year old female was transported to the landing zone and brought to Mass General Hospital in Boston by Medflight. Four patients were transported to South Shore Hospital by ground. Mutual aid from Plymouth, Pembroke, and Duxbury re-
sponded to assist. The scene commander investigated the incident and found that electricity had been shut off at the residence and a generator in the garage was used to provide power to the house. The garage door was accidentally closed and the residence filled with CO. - JOHN SJOSTEDT III
JOHN SJOSTEDT
Plymouth MA Police LODD JAKE O'CALLAGHAN/CWN
Crash in Harwichport Harwichport, MA. The male driver of a Chevrolet Malibu failed to stop, causing a two car crash at the intersection of Pleasant Street and Schoolhouse Road. The accident happened Tuesday, April 8th around 3:30 p.m. The female driver of the other vehicle, a Ford Escape, was transported to Cape Cod Hospital by the Harwich Fire and Rescue with non-life threatening injuries. Harwich Police will be charging the driver of the Chevrolet with failure to stop and yield at a stop sign.
Plymouth, MA. Police departments from all over New England came out to pay respects to Plymouth Police Officer Gregg Maloney, who died in the line of duty from injuries sustained from a motorcycle accident while on duty. Officer Maloney was a highly respected officer in the community. Honor guards and officers lined Court Street in Plymouth during the funeral services. Motorcycle officers lined Samoset Street as the procession made it's way to the cemetery. A state police bugler played taps during the funeral service followed by a state police helicopter flyover. Plymouth Dispatch made a Final Call to Officer Maloney as a motorcycle exited the cemetery with the siren sounding.
June, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
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MASSACHUSETTS
PATCHES If you have photos you would like to see in our Patches feature please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
LT. NICHOLAS J. DADALT
Matthew Roderick and FireďŹ ghter/EMT Sean Moynagh/ kneeling L-R FireďŹ ghter/EMT Gordon Holstrom and FireďŹ ghter/EMT Bill Chamberland)
Sturbridge firefighters respond to fatal Sturbridge, MA. On Sunday, May 4, 2014 at 12:04 a.m., Sturbridge Public Safety Dispatcher Tyler Bresse received 911 calls reporting a serious motor vehicle crash on BrookďŹ eld Road in the area of North Drive, Fiskdale. A second alarm was struck. Onduty FireďŹ ghter/Paramedic Towns and FireďŹ ghter/EMT Robert Moynagh arrived and conďŹ rmed two vehicles were involved in the crash. JUMP TO FILE # One vehicle, a 050514119 full-sized SUV, had sustained front-end damage, but its occupants were out walking around the vehicle (and subsequently refused treatment/transport from EMS). The other vehicle, a four-door sedan, had heavy front-end damage and a sole female occupant (driver) trapped and seriously injured. Fire Chief David Zinther assumed command and summoned UMass-Memorial LifeFlight to land at Tantasqua Regional Senior High School for the female driver. BrookďŹ eld Fire Department and BrookďŹ eld Ambulance were also requested to secure the helicopter landing zone and provide assistance. Sturbridge ďŹ reďŹ ghters utilized mechanical extrication equipment, the â&#x20AC;&#x153;jaws of life,â&#x20AC;? to free to the patient from her vehicle. UMass-Memorial LifeFlight personnel assumed care of the patient with the assistance of Sturbridge and BrookďŹ eld EMS. The patientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s condition rapidly declined prior to transport to the landing zone and the patient was transported by ground to Harrington Memorial Hospital, Southbridge, where she succumbed to her injuries. The Sturbridge Police Department is investigating the crash and will release further information at a later time. - NICHOLAS DADALT
ROBERT PAV
Massachusetts - Boston Fire Dept Engine 7
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June, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS MASSACHUSETTS
Honor: A remembrance of the funeral services for Lt. Edward J Walsh Jr. We gathered by the thousands, a collection of navy blue on a cool and gray April morning. Through the streets of Watertown we made our way, past the fire headquarters and two Boston ladder trucks flying the flag. Firemen from near and far stopped to take pictures of the symbolic tradition of the enormous billowing display of the Stars and Stripes. We loosely gathered into our respective groups, I'm with the honor guard so we are on the church side of the street. The opposite side of the street is comprised of department chiefs JUMP TO FILE # outfitted with im- 042814133 pressive gold colored hardware and bugles adorning their familiar dress attire, as well as the nervous probies wearing the uniform for the first time. Brothers from both familiar and never heard of towns were friendly and kind, conversation comes easy. What department are you from? Which state? Which country? The "do you know so and so?" game. Differences in culture and geography are irrelevant in the brotherhood, and we banter on about life and the fire service. We always seem to talk about the same things, but seldom why we're here. Calls we've been on or heard about, new apparatus, the "big one" that we missed, how many guys the department sent, etc. Any talk about the deceased is met with distant eyes and a hesitant tone. After the second day of the services, I read a quote displayed at the Vendome Memorial. "We don't talk about the tragic fires. It would be too much. We go home to our families." Although we collect as a group, we still cope with the loss in our own individual ways. A lengthy period ensues, and eventually some BFD guys come along and line us up; we are obedient and solemnly quiet. Organizers with Motorolas move the assembled ranks across the street from us back a few feet, only for a contradicting order to be given by somebody else for them to move back forward again. This breaks the tension and causes the guys to have a laugh, and soon we are again telling stories and giving each other a hard time. Familiar faces move past us towards the church, I recognize BPD Commissioner Evans, along with darkly tinted official vehicles. Without warning, the loudspeakers behind us come to life, a single sharp command is spoken, “standby by,” and all snap to attention. Thousands of brothers are immediately silent, only the distant sound of helicopters can be heard. No cell phones ringing, no fidgeting. Order and discipline is immediate and absolute. The contrast is significant. Blocks away, the first notes of the bagpipes are heard. After nearly two hours of hurry up and wait, it's on. I'm focused on my assigned task of bearing the brightly polished parade axe. My senses are sharp, as are my emotions. All I see in my tightly cropped field of vision are dozens of firefighters in their various Class A's saluting, the white dress gloves a bright distinction against the unbroken rows of dark blue. They are framed on the periphery by Watertown City Hall
and the bare branches of the trees in the adjacent town common. Smells of coffee from the Worcester Box 4 Canteen truck staged in the common penetrate the brisk air. The touch of my brother honor guard member on my left is constant and steady, it helps us maintain tight formation. The pipes and drums approach now; the larger than life Scottish uniformed marchers are so close, their swinging cords and tassels brush against the axe I hold in front of me. The sound of countless pipes resonate in my chest, the crack of a hundred drumsticks follow, "The air is shattered by that awesome sound". Intense and consuming emotion washes over me as I feel the familiar goosebumps spread over my body. Worcester and FDNY members march past, and I remember their fallen. The Boston Fire Department Honor Guard, an inspiring sight, fill my view. Determined, their feet striking the ground in well rehearsed unison, black mourning bands tightly bound on their gleaming badges. Seconds that feel like minutes pass as the lightweight axe becomes more of a struggle to keep elevated and still, and the procession appears to end. Where's the apparatus, I think to myself, maintaining discipline and refusing to turn my head to the right so I can see if anything else is approaching. The ground trembles slightly as Ladder 15 finally idles strongly by, black bunting and bouquets adorning her. A man is walking, carrying his brother's BFD helmetits leather shield bearing a white background indicating an engine company. That company, Engine 33 rolls closely behind, carrying our fallen comrade on his final run. I listen to her Cummins diesel clatter by as the freshly shined Goodyear tires roll along Watertown's Main St. on towards St. Patrick's church. L15/E33 members walk alongside the KME pumper, their right hands pressed against the red paint, pained expressions of sorrow on their young faces. The axe, moments before unbearably heavy, becomes weightless in my hands. The sounds of the radio transmissions at Box 9-1579 start repeating in my head. The family cars follow. I see the children and their innocence, and I think of my own beautiful children. I focus and draw strength from the presence of all that have come before me, and those that stand in solidarity and respect on this day That Worcester Canteen truck is where much of the crowd congregates after the procession moves into the church. I run into a few guys I know, and then eagerly consume some lukewarm coffee from the smallest Dunk's cup I've ever seen. I notice the four story commercial building across the street has a few firefighters up on the flat roof, and I quickly decide that I need to be up there too. I enter the office of the insurance company housed in the building and a woman stops me. I expect to be turned around, but with a gentle smile she asks me and the firefighter behind me if we want to use the the rest room, or go up on the roof. Of course we say both, but head to the roof first. Everybody in the building we encounter is so accommodating, Watertown and the greater Boston area have been through a lot of tragedy these past 12 months. We have to climb a ladder and exit
through a scuttle hatch to access the roof. The first thing I see is the Boston skyline in the distance. The funeral mass is nearing its conclusion, and we clumsily regroup north of our previous location. Again, some firm BFD members position us as needed. This time the pipers line up in the street right in front of us. They are largely a brash and bold group; cigars are being smoked, chrome flasks are passed around. There is a stark distinction between these loud burly men in their tartan patterned uniforms, and the meticulous appearance, attention to detail, and dignified conduct of the Honor Guards. I imagine a subconscious and unspoken competition between our units, as the leadership and rank and file across the street look on. We are still brothers however, and the traditions of the fire service are complete despite the dichotomy of the separate units. Numerous loudspeakers line the streets in the area of the church, broadcasting the activities taking place inside.
The Catholic services are familiar and comforting to me. The quiet chatter among the groups is collected into a general din, competing with the disembodied voices amplified by the PA system. As the religious services complete, we are again told to fall in to formation. The conversations in the street continue, as well as the placement of procession vehicles. The 110' aerial ladders flying the American flag have already been broken down from their original positions, and efficiently relocated up the street. Boston Mayor Marty Walsh begins to speak in the church, here and there the small talk begins to cease as people listen. We hear from Richie Paris, Local 718 president, and more people pay attention. His strong Boston accent and regular guy eloquence differs from the politicians and clergy we've heard from so far. His emotions and sincerity come through the wires and into the Watertown air as he speaks of Lt. Walsh. Eddie's sister is next to speak. She too
has a wicked Boston accent, her emotions evident but controlled. It makes the heartbreaking reality and importance of the moment contagious and real. The streets are again quiet and still. The stubborn lump in my throat extends deeper into my gut as the civilians on the hill across the street fail to hide their sadness as well as the firemen do. Genuine and humorous stories about their family stop us in our thoughts, compelling us to visualize this great man taken from his loved ones too soon. Her markedly vivid recollections of who he was and how he lived his life are striking. I begin to bow my head in grief, but quickly raise it high in admiration of Big Eddie's accomplishments. The ceremonial ringing of the bell, signaling his last alarm tolls. The echo of the final ring through the hushed streets is punctuated by a muffled radio transmission from BFD Car 4, parked nearby. - JESSE BOYLE Carver, MA
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August, 2009
June, 2014
1sT Responder Newspaper - NE
1ST Responder Newspaper - SE
FLORIDA
Boynton Beach hosts record event to help NFL alumni charities BOYNTON BEACH, FL - It wasn’t supposed to happen at all. The crippled economy, the housing slump, the unemployment explosion, even the oceanic conditions threatened to beat down the 4th Annual Fishin’ & Firehouse Chili Grand Slam put on by the Boynton Beach Firefighter Benevolent Association on April 18th. It just wasn’t supposed to happen this year—the members looked at the state of the world and asked themselves, “How do we ask for sponsorship money, boat entry fees, donations and support at a time like this?” Somehow though, in a mighty confluence of tenacity and generosity, South Florida’s firefighters, fishing fanatics, chili connoisseurs and their taste testers pulled together for a full day of fun and excitement to set a few records and raise over $20,000.00 for some kids who really need it—especially during this economic crisis. The popular Boynton Beach fishing tournament and chili cook-off has grown like a wildfire since it’s first go-round in 2006 when it attracted a respectable 43 boat entries—not bad for a first year tournament in South Florida, the fishing tournament capital of the world. With hopeful expectations for the same in 2007, Boynton firefighters were shocked when 74 captains entered their boats. In 2008, that number fell to 63 entries, but understandably so as there were three other tournaments that same day, most with much higher payouts to draw some captains away. However, with the global economic abyss swallowing boats and every other luxury item folks have to unload just to stay afloat, a decision was made to forego the 2009 event. Then, suddenly, a title sponsor— Sutphen--offered up the $5000.00 sponsorship donation, and then, other large sponsors sent $1,500.00 checks, $500.00 checks, boat entries, chili teams, prizes, food! In the end, this “little engine that could” wound up beating its own records with 76 boats registered, the tournament’s recordbreaking fish weighing in at 63plus pounds, over 870 pounds of fish donated to the cause by their captors, and a new department single event donation record of over $20,000.00 for charity! It’s a story that speaks to the overwhelming generosity of Americans—people helping people who need it when they need it most, giving of themselves when
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the last thing that makes logical sense in such trying times is to give at all. The Boynton Beach Firefighter Benevolent Association and IAFF Local #1891 can not possibly express the heartfelt gratitude that each shares for everyone who stood up and threw down for this very worthy cause. Heroes all. - STEPHEN M. LEWIS
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June, 2014
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June, 2014
1st Responder Newspaper - NE