The New England Edition PUBLISHING SINCE 1993
HOME SUBSCRIPTION - $36/YEAR
WWW.1RBN.COM
MARCH, 2018
RYAN FLAHERTY
Willimantic, CT - At 10:14 A.M. on Sunday, January 28th, the Willimantic F.D. was dispatched to Willimantic Waste Paper Company at 1590 West Main Street for a building fire. While responding, a large header was visible, so Engine 301 requested the second-alarm. - See full story on page 8
SEE PAGE 26 FOR DETAILS.
Join our Team of Dispatchers Paging with a Rewards Program! Visit our website to fill out an application.
www.1rwn.com
PAGE 2
March, 2018
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
March, 2018
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
PAGE 3
VERMONT
WOMEN IN FIREFIGHTING
MEMORIAL BOARD
If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Memorial Board” feature please upload them on our website www.1RBN.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
"It is with great sadness that I report the passing of Retired Assistant Chief Mark O'Neil. Mark passed away on Saturday, February 3rd. Mark was a 45 year veteran of Chester Fire Department and Yosemite Engine Company. Mark rose through the ranks holding po-
sitions as Firefighter, Lieutenant and Assistant Chief. Mark was an amazing Firefighter and friend. Rest Easy Chief, we will take it from here."
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
- MATTHEW WILSON
PROVIDED
CHESTER FIRE DEPARTMENT
Proctorsville Fire Department (VT) would like to congratulate Amy Perry on her promotion to Lieutenant. LT. Perry is our first female officer in the department's 185-year history. Perry, a former police officer, is a competent apparatus and pump operator and interior firefighter, has obtained her Firefighter II, and is currently working on her Instructor Cert. PFD is proud to have Perry join the ranks of leadership. Backing up LT. Perry are a host of other strong women on PFD, including pump operator and life member FF Karlene Glidden, FF Cindy Fitzgibbons, FF Jess Rose, and Perry's daughter, 16-year-old Jr. CAPT. Ahna Perry.
ONE DAY INSTALLATION! LIFETIME WARRANTY Cannot Crack or Fail EVER!
8:00 AM
5:00 PM SAME DAY
DON’T BE FOOLED BY SUPRATILE IMITATIONS OLIVE FD OLIVEBRIDGE, NY
Priced Comparable to Epoxy Goes Right Over Your Old Floor
OCEAN COMPANY #1 POINT PLEASANT BEACH, NJ
ARMOR-TUFF FLOORS, DIVISION OF ARMORPOXY sales@armor-tuff.com • www.armor-tuff.com • 855-72FLOOR
PAGE 4
March, 2018
CONNECTICUT
Advertising Index
A guide to finding great companies
Company
Armor Tuff Floors
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
Page 3
Autotronics
13
Dingee Machine Co.
37
EMS Pro
34
Badger Medical Collar EJ Boughton Co. FDIC
Firematic
Five Star Fire
Greenwood Emergency
7
35 15 40 5
2
Hoffman Radio Network
25
Lifesaving Resources
37
Minuteman Fire & Rescue
39
Kimtek
Mid Atlantic Rescue
New England Fire Chiefs New England Marine Norcom CT
14
19 23 27
9
Penflex
17
Quick Med Claims
27
PVC
Shaker Auto Group
22
33
Utility Communications
11
JUMP TO FILE #020918116 their family, throughout the recovery process with the goal of living life to its full potential free from addiction and learning to manage and live with the mental health challenges. Honor Wellness Center will also provide Education and Training and Community Outreach. We are asking for your support to help us to make this dream a reality and to open Honor Wellness Center for our first responders. All donations are tax-deductible and every dollar counts toward continued wellness for those who protect and serve our safety, wellness and freedoms--our first responders. Our goal is to have a wellness center for first responders in every state within 5 years. Please check us out online at www.honorwellness.org and if you are interested and available, we need volunteers. Feel free to contact Phyllis DiGioia at (860)919-9762 for more information. Also, if possible, please donate to the opening of this c e n t e r https://www.gofundme.com/honorwellnesscenter - PHYLLIS DIGIOIA/HONOR WELLNESS CENTER
PHILLIP LEE
Car Fire for South Killingly Killingly, CT - At 3:46 P.M. on Tuesday, January 16th, the South Killingly and Danielson Fire Departments were dispatched to 390 Bailey Hill Road for a car fire. Assistant Chief Lee arrived first and reported one vehicle with an engine compartment fire without any exposure issues. Engine 165 was first-due and stretched a one-and-three-quarter inch hose line to attack the fire. Engine Tank 161 arrived next and assisted with the overhaul. There were no injuries and the Killingly Fire Marshal is investigating.
PATCH OF THE MONTH
If you have photos you would like to see in our “Patch of the Month” feature please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
21
Vintech, LLC.
29
Zodiac
35
Yankee Equipment
Honor Wellness Center is a newly formed non-profit (501 (c) 3) currently in the development and fundraising stage. At Honor Wellness Center, we provide client-centered, culturally competent, holistic individual and group treatment to first responders (police, fire, military, corrections, dispatchers and EMS personnel) utilizing evidenced based practices in order to address the first responder’s addiction, mental health and/or trauma issues. Each Intensive Outpatient Treatment Group session will be facilitated by a specialized clinician and recovered first responder. A case manager will be assigned to each client and will follow and monitor progress for no less than 6 months. The Center will also provide first responder focused aftercare including first responder recovery groups, an outpatient mental health counseling network of specialized clinicians and prescribers (as needed), as well as alternative therapies such as yoga, acupuncture, massage therapy, and nutrition counseling to name a few, to serve first responders and their families. We recognize that mental health and addictions can be chronic and progressive which deeply impacts not only the first responder but their entire family system, as well as "work family" system. We strive to guide each first responder, including
31
Spotted Dog Technologies Sutphen
Honor Wellness Center Vows to Help First Responders
24
CORPORATE INFORMATION
1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New England edition - Vol. 22, No.3 - 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.
845-534-7500• (fax) 845-534-0055 Info@belsito.com
DAVID BOWEN
Plane Crash in South Meriden KARIN M. HALSTEAD
This patch belongs to Sandy Hook Fire & Rescue Company, located in Fairfield County, CT.
South Meriden, CT - On January 27th, a plane went down on Hanover Road in Meriden. Enging-1, Truck-1, Car-3 and South Meriden Engine-11 were on scene.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
March, 2018
PAGE 5
PAGE 6
March, 2018
1 ARDMORE STREET • NEW WINDSOR, NY 12553
845-534-7500 • (fax) 845-534-0055 • News@1stResponderNews.com
EXECUTIVE STAFF PUBLISHER
Joseph P. Belsito (Joe@Belsito.com) ••• GENERAL MANAGER
Kathy Ronsini (Kathy@1stResponderNews.com) ••• PRODUCTION DIRECTOR
Ashley Ramos (Ashley@1stResponderNews.com) ••• MANAGING EDITOR
Lindsey Palmer (Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com) ••• MARKETING DIRECTOR
Greg W. Buff (greg@belsito.com)
••• CIRCULATION MANAGER
Michelle Belsito (Michelle@1stResponder.com)
••• DISPATCHER RECRUITMENT & RETENTION (Rich@1stResponder.com)
••• OFFICE ADMINISTRATORS
Nicole Roby (Nicole@1stResponderNews.com) EDITORIAL STAFF COLUMNISTS •••
Rick Billings (Cartoon) AJ Fusco (Food Blog) Bob Long (Cartoon) John Malecky (Apparatus, Video, Bookshelf) Didymus McHugh (Chaplain’s Corner) Joel Miller (Social Media) Robert “Pip” Piparo (Health & Fitness) Fernando Villicana (Chaplain’s Corner)
CORRESPONDENTS •••
Robert Allen • Nate Arnold • Michael Carenza Jr. • Paul Dolnier • Robert Fish • Ryan Flaherty • Jim Fortin Jr. • Thomas Galliford • Karin Halstead • William King • Roger Lambert • Kenneth Leger • Peter Lobo • Bernie Meehan Jr. • Robert Moran • David Morin • Reg Patchell • Greg Ramsdell • Coral Ruggiero • Dick Scialabba • John Sjostedt • Ken Snyder • Robert Sprague • Jack Stawasz • Georges Sullivan • Charlie Tentas • Erin Thomas • Pat Travers • Eugene Weber Jr. • Tom Zotti
EDITORIAL INFORMATION
Join our team of correspondents or columnists! 1st Responder Newspaper welcomes submissions by our readers. Send stories and photos to us at 1 Ardmore St. New Windsor, NY 12553. Or, give us a call or send us an e-mail. If using the mail, please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for all submissions you wish to have returned. Publisher reserves the right to refuse any editorial or advertising material submitted.
845-534-7500 ext. 212 • (fax) 845-534-0055 News@1stResponderNews.com
ADVERTISING INFORMATION
If you would like information about how advertising in 1st Responder News can benefit your company call our advertising hotline at:
845-534-7500 ext. 211 • (fax) 845-534-0055 Advertising@1stResponderNews.com
CIRCULATION INFORMATION
1st Responder Newspaper is delivered to all fire, rescue, ambulance stations and hospitals. If you do not receive your papers, please contact our circulation department. Home subscriptions are $36 per year.
845-534-7500 ext. 220 • (fax) 845-534-0055 Circulation@1stResponderNews.com
GRAPHIC DESIGN/MARKETING
1st Responder News’ graphics team will work with you on your adverA division of: tisement free of charge. Additionally, we offer a complete marketing department for all of your printed needs. Whether they are posters, or single sheet handouts, full color or black and white, no one else delivers the high quality work at our competitive prices. As a newspaper in the Belsito Communications Inc. family, 1st Responder News has a state-of-the-art production facility which utilizes the latest scanning technology available. Materials are processed using Power Macintosh G4s. Output is handled on our HP Color LaserJet 8500 to produce this highest quality black and white or color prints on the market.
845-534-7500 ext. 214 • (fax) 845-534-0055 Info@Belsito.com
In memory of those who gave all
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
1st Responder Newspaper honors and remembers emergency responders lost in the line of duty
Texas: Charles Edward Patterson, 60 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: December 1, 2017 Death Date: December 7, 2017 Fire Department: Bowie Rural Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: Firefighter Charles Edward Patterson collapsed in the front yard of a residential structure fire while working a hose line with other members of his fire department. Emergency medical personnel were on scene and provided immediate assistance. Firefighter Patterson was transported to the hospital where he died several days later from a nature and cause of fatal injury still to be reported. California: Cory Iverson, 32 Rank: Engineer Incident Date: December 14, 2017 Death Date: December 14, 2017 Fire Department: CAL FIRE Initial Summary: Engineer Cory Iverson died while fighting the Thomas Fire near Fillmore, California. The nature and cause of Iverson's death has not been released pending a Cal Fire serious accident review. Engineer Iverson was part of a multiengine strike team dispatched from the San Diego area more than a week ago to fight some of the largest fires in California’s history. Florida: Jeffery Atkinson, 43 Rank: Engineer Incident Date: December 15, 2017 Death Date: December 15, 2017 Fire Department: Tallahassee Fire Department Initial Summary: Engineer Jeffery Atkinson died while on-duty at the fire station from a nature and cause of fatal injury still to be determined. Texas: Dene Barber, 56 Rank: Captain Incident Date: December 13, 2017 Death Date: December 13, 2017 Fire Department: Brazoria Fire Department
Initial Summary: Captain Dene Barber responded with the Brazoria Fire Department to an apartment building fire on the evening of December 13, 2017. Firefighters made entry into the building and extinguished the fire. Upon exiting the structure, Barber complained to others of not feeling well. Captain Barber was treated on scene by West Brazos EMS, then transported to the hospital where in spite of all efforts he passed away from a reported heart attack.
New York: David Jahnes, 58 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: December 18, 2017 Death Date: December 18, 2017 Fire Department: Nyack Fire Department – Fire Patrol Initial Summary: Firefighter David Jahnes fell ill while at the scene of an investigation into an odor at a bank which turned out to be an overheating battery in the alarm system. Firefighter Jahnes was treated by fellow responders and transported by the Nyack Ambulance Corps to the hospital where later during treatment he suffered coronary failure and passed away. Indiana: Jeffery Alan Blackmer, 42 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: December 20, 2017 Death Date: December 20, 2017 Fire Department: Hamilton Township Volunteer Fire Company Initial Summary: Shortly after working a barn fire with his fire department, Firefighter Jeffery Alan Blackmer was discovered deceased at the fire station where he had been cleaning and stowing away gear used to fight the early morning blaze. The nature and cause of fatal injury are still to be determined by authorities.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
March, 2018
PAGE 7
PAGE 8
March, 2018
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
Multiple-Alarm Fire Destroys Willimantic Waste Paper Company Willimantic, CT - At 10:14 A.M. on Sunday, January 28th, the Willimantic F.D. was dispatched to Willimantic Waste Paper Company at 1590 West Main Street for a building fire. While responding, a large header was visible, so En- JUMP TO FILE# gine 301 requested 013018100 the second-alarm. Engine 301 arrived at 10:15 A.M. and reported a 100x400 trash facility with heavy fire throughout. Tower 101 established command and transmitted the third-alarm with a special request for three additional aerials above that. Engine 301 laid in from a hydrant on West Main Street and fed Tower 101 on the "D" side. Command advised everyone to set up for defensive operations and requested the water department to assist with supplying the fire. North Windham’s Engine 102 laid a supply line from the hydrant near the gas station and used their deck gun on the "B" side. At 10:30 A.M., Car 1, Chief Scrivener assumed command and Captain Bruscato became operations. Engine 201 hit another hydrant on West Main St. and laid a supply line into Engine 301 where they set up two master stream devices. Columbia Engine 105 laid in from a hydrant at the Chronicle and then went back and pumped the hydrant. Willimantic’s Engine 101 finished Columbia’s lay and then fed Truck 101 on the "C/D" corner. Hebron’s Truck 110 positioned on the "B/C" corner and was able to darken down a large volume of burning trash. Scotland’s Tower 116 set up on the "B" side and was able to go low with their bucket, hitting fire in the middle of the building. Baltic’s Ladder 124 positioned on the "A/B" corner and assisted with the defensive operations. Uconn Tower 122 was instructed to set up on the "A/D" corner and was being supplied by Franklin Engine 125. Firefighters were able to remove multiple propane cylinders from the building and safely put them in an area where they were not being impinged on. Firefighters also worked with staff from the company to move some of the machinery out of the collapse zone. Crews were seriously taxing the municipality’s water supply, so Scotland’s hose tender laid in from the river to help supply the scene. Columbia’s Rescue 105 provided the firefighter assistance search team. Mansfield, Coventry and Lebanon provided ambulances for rehab and covered the city. The Connecticut Eastern Region Response Integrated Team was on scene with the Department of Energy & Environmental Protection. At the height of the blaze,
RYAN FLAHERTY
Willimantic Firefighter Molochnick setting up the ropes for the ladder pipe on their 1977 Maxim aerial which will be replaced this year.
North Windham's Engine 102 laid in and hit it with their deck gun.
about 200 firefighters were working to suppress the fire. One firefighter and a company employee were treated for exhaustion at
Windham Hospital. The 100,000square-foot building housed the garbage and construction debris which is a total loss. Firefighters
RYAN FLAHERTY
would be on scene for a few days wetting down hot spots.The Willimantic Fire Marshal is investigating with assistance from the State
Fire Marshal.
- RYAN FLAHERTY
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
March, 2018
PAGE 9
PAGE 10
March, 2018
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
Healthy St. Patrick’s Day Eats
CONNECTICUT
FORK & HOSE CO. a Food Blog by A.J. Fusco
NORWALK FD
Norwalk Firefighters Respond to Single-Vehicle Accident
Norwalk, CT - The Norwalk F.D. responded to a single-car motor vehicle accident at 66 East Rocks Road on Friday evening, January 19th at 11:00 P.M. The car, a late model Lincoln Navigator SUV, left the roadway, struck a tree and landed upright about 30-feet from the road and 15-feet below the grade of the road. The lone driver, a woman in her 50’s, crawled out of the car and was lying in the yard when Police and Firefighters arrived. Firefighters assisted Norwalk Hospital Paramedics in getting the woman to the ambulance for transport. Her injuries appeared to be non-life-threatening. East Rocks Road was closed for a short time while the car was removed and Norwalk Police investigated the cause of the accident.
I have always said, if I wasn’t Italian I would be Irish. Not sure exactly why though. Maybe it’s the fact that when I hear pipes and drums playing I get excited, pumped up or in some cases emotional. I even tried to join the local Emerald Society when they recruited at my fire academy, but they didn’t buy my name as being A.J. “Mc”Fusco. Still, the Irish tra-
Serves 6 Ingredients:
1.5 Lb. Ground Turkey 6 Sweet Potatoes ½ Yellow Onion, diced 2 Garlic Cloves, diced 4 Medium Carrots, peeled and diced 8 oz. Mushrooms, quartered 10 oz. Frozen Peas 10 oz. Frozen Corn 2 Sprigs Fresh Rosemaryleaves removed and finely chopped 14.5 Can of Low-Sodium Chicken Broth Extra Virgin Olive Oil ½ tsp Ground Cinnamon ½ tsp Paprika ½ tsp Cayenne Pepper 2 tsp. Flour Salt and Pepper, to taste -Preheat oven to 500 degrees.
Extrication Needed at MVA in Westport Westport, CT - On February 10th at 10:27 A.M., the Westport F.D. responded to a report of an MVA on Wilton Road in the area of Poplar Plain Road. The Westport F.D. responded with two Engines, a Rescue Truck and the Shift Commander. Engine 6 arrived and reported that a vehicle had rolled over and came to rest on its side. Engine 6 reported that the vehicle was occupied with one patient who required extrication. Additionally, they found a telephone pole knocked down across the road. Companies stabilized the vehicle and extricated the patient by using hydraulic rescue tools including the “Jaws of Life”. The patient was treated on scene by Westport EMS. The Westport P.D. responded and provided scene and traffic control.
Emerald Isle has to offer. But I digress, just because it may not be authentic certainly does not mean it can’t be good. So when I decided to make something “Irish” for dinner at the firehouse, I knew I wanted to do something familiar but put my own healthy twist on it. Shepherd’s Pie is delicious, I mean how could you not want beef smothered in a brown gravy-like sauce and topped with buttery mashed potatoes. But one of my favorite things to do is take a dish that is popular in the firehouse and make it a little more nutritious, so just a few ingredient substitutions and boom! A healthy variation on a classic!
“Turkey-Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie”
Procedure:
WESTPORT FD
ditions run deep in the fire service and that may very well be the reason. The fire service and tradition are near and dear to my heart. But this is a food column right?! Irish cuisine here in America is not much to write home about. Please, to all the Irish out there, don’t beat me up over this. It happens to all cultures; Chinese food in the states is for the most part not at all how they eat in China. And very much the same can be said for Italian food here, and this I know first-hand having been to Italy twice. I hate to break it to ya, but chicken parm isn’t really a thing. In Ireland, there is a great food movement going on, showcasing the best produce, meat and fish the
add the mushrooms and sauté until nicely browned and no moisture is left in the pan. Add the garlic and rosemary, stirring often.
-Now add the turkey back to the pan with the peas and corn. Sprinkle the flour in, stir and cook for a minute or so. Add in the broth, bring to a boil and lower to a simmer for a few minutes until thickened. Place mixture in an oven-proof baking dish or tray.
soning. Spread on top of the turkey mixture. For a nicer presentation place the potato in a ziploc bag, cut one corner tip of the bag and squeeze the mixture on top of turkey like a pastry bag. -Place in the oven for 10-15 minutes until the top has browned. You can also use the broiler if you have one. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
-Now that the potatoes have cooled, peel the skin (you could chop the skin and add to turkey mixture for extra nutrients). In a large bowl add the potato flesh, a drizzle of olive oil, pinch of salt and the spices. Mash with a fork, taste and adjust sea-
-In a large pot, place sweet potatoes with enough cold water to cover. Salt the water like you would pasta water. Bring to a boil, lower to a simmer and cook until soft, approximately 30 minutes. Remove and set aside to cool.
-While the potatoes are cooking, place a large skillet over medium heat. Add a couple glugs of olive oil. When the oil is simmering add the ground turkey, seasoning with a little salt and pepper. When the turkey starts to brown, stir it until cooked through and set aside. In the same pan add a little more olive oil and the onions and carrots. When the onions are translucent
AJ FUSCO
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
March, 2018
PAGE 11
Sales & Service of Communications Equipment for over 45 years Factory Trained Technicians • 24 Hr Emergency Service
Reconditioned Equipment HT 1250 PORTABLES
UHF & VHF, includes Charger, Battery & Speaker Mic: $375.00 each
CDM1250 MOBILES UHF & VHF: $350.00 each
TO SEE MORE OF OUR RECONDITIONED EQUIPMENT, PLEASE GO TO OUR WEBSITE WWW.UTILITYCOMMUNICATIONS.COM
Two-Way Radios • Pagers • Scanners • Complete Motorola Product Line • Whelen Emergency Vehicle Lighting • Garmin GPS Navigation & Tracking • Wireless Data & Voice • Microwave • Video Systems • Custom Engraving Rentals • Consulting & Coverage Studies • Reconditioned Equipment • P25 Upgradeable Models 920 Sherman Avenue, Hamden Connecticut 06514
(203) 287-1306 • (800) 443-1306
www.utilitycommunications.com
PAGE 12
March, 2018
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
‘Mayday’ Called at New Britain Apartment Building Fire New Britain, CT - On January 16th just after 10:00 P.M., the fire department was dispatched to 42 Connerton Street for smoke coming from the roof of a building. The first engine company on scene reported smoke from the roof of a three-story brick JUMP TO FILE# building and con- 011818109 firmed a working fire. Fire was found to be in the basement and companies appeared to have it knocked down. Soon after it was apparent that the fire was traveling up the walls to the top floors and attic. Extra companies were called to the scene. At one point a 'mayday' was called out as firefighters on the third-floor became disoriented and could not find their way out. A team of three firefighters went in and got them out without incident. The fire would continue to burn throughout the night. There were no injuries and the apartment building was vacant at the time because of a recent furnace issue. The fire appears to have started in the basement and is being investigated by both the state and local Fire Marshals. - MICHAEL CARENZA JR
Heavy fire breaks through the roof.
MICHAEL CARENZA JR
Occupants Escape Structure Fire in Norwalk
Norwalk, CT - At 12:09 P.M. on January 21st, Norwalk F.D. responded to a reported structure fire in a condominium located at 21 West Main St. Upon arrival, heavy smoke was observed coming from multiple windows and the main doorway. While initial interior attack lines were being stretched, a mother and young child were found to be standing on a secondfloor balcony with smoke coming from their apartment. It was determined that the fire was not in the mother’s apartment, so ground ladders were placed, the door to the balcony was secured and the mother and infant were protected in place on the balcony. The fire was found to be in another apartment in the kitchen area, and was quickly contained and extinguished within that unit. The fire is currently under investigation by the Fire Prevention Bureau. There was heavy smoke damage throughout the complex, with fire damage restricted solely to the unit with the kitchen fire. No injuries were reported to the occupants or firefighters. The mother and infant were checked out by EMS as a safety precaution and were not transported to the hospital. Fire suppression units cleared the scene at 2:27 P.M. - TODD SMITH
NFD
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
March, 2018
PAGE 13
PAGE 14
March, 2018
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
Side "D".
BERNIE MEEHAN JR
Fire Strikes Retirement Community in Southbury Southbury, CT - On January 21st at 8:52 A.M., the Southbury F.D. was dispatched to an automatic fire alarm at 366 Krueger Circle in the expansive Heritage Village Retirement Community. As Car 1, Chief Dan Tomascak arrived, he found heavy fire issuing from the rear of the building, which is a four-unit condo on an interior lot. Chief Tomascak requested a Second-Alarm which retoned the Southbury department, as well as adding Oxford and Woodbury to the assignment. Oxford Fire operated as the RIT while Woodbury assisted with overhaul. As Engine 5 approached, they were able to maneuver to a corner of the parking lot which gave them access to a hydrant, as well as the closest point to stretch attack lines to the fire. Two hand-
JUMP TO FILE #012118102 lines were stretched quickly, with one knocking down the heavy fire showing from the rear, and the second one going interior to stop the spread of the fire as well to protect the search team. There was an early report of a possible person unaccounted for, and after a thorough search, it was determined that the occupant had gotten out. The fire was knocked down in short order. Heritage Village Ambulance stood by, and the Southbury Fire Marshals are working with the State Fire Marshals to determine the cause and origin. - BERNIE MEEHAN
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
March, 2018
PAGE 15
PAGE 16
March, 2018
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
Finding Time for What’s Important Chaplain's Corner
Pastor Fernando Villicana
In the fire service time is of the essence and we are loaded with priorities and important choices. Once emergency services arrive on scene of a crisis, the decision wheels begin to turn. In business “time is money". In the fire service, time can be a matter of life or death. Even though there are procedures in place, the incident commander must begin using each moment wisely as well as deciding what resources to deploy. Making the best use of time and resources
Get your personal copy of
The NE Edition
Name:______________________
Telephone:___________________ Address:____________________ City: ______________________
State:_____ Zip: _____________ __ $36 for one year subscription
__ $60 for two year subscription
PAYMENT METHOD
__ Check
__ Money Order __ Charge card
Card # _____________________ Exp:____________
Signature ___________________
Send payment to: 1ST RESPONDER NEWSPAPER 1 ARDMORE STREET NEW WINDSOR, NY 12553
Amount enclosed: ______
For Credit Card Orders: just fax this to (845) 534-0055 or subscribe online at
www.1RBN.com
is the name of the game. There seems to be an increased emphasis on Time Management nowadays. Companies are investing more resources to provide seminars and instructional material on how to plan your life out. Corporate America realizes that if employees are taught this concept, the company can be more fruitful and productive. Prioritizing is the name of the game and more and more books are being published on the subject. But what are the things that are most important in life? Well, there could be a long list of things depending on the person and their status (single, married, retired etc.). Exercise is important for a healthy body. Spending quality time with your spouse and your children is important. Reading your Bible and praying everyday is important. Maintaining balance between work and play is important for a healthy life. For the most part, we already know the right things to do! The problem is we have a hard time finding time for these things that are important. Today in our society there are more time-saving devices than any other time in the history of mankind. Yet we still don't seem to have enough time. We're always in a hurry. We just can't seem to get it all done. The fact is: You can't be all, do all, and have it all. You have to make selections and choices in life. It’s called time management! The Bible has this to say about time management. Ephesians 5:1516 (Phillips trans.) "Live life with a due sense of responsibility not as those who do not know the meaning of life but as those who do. Make the best use of your time.” We all have the exact same amount of time - 168 hours a week. The bad news is that next week you're not going to have any more time than you did this week. So, the only thing that can change is how you manage it, how you use it. You can't save time, you can't stretch time, you can't add time - you just have to manage it well. The big question is: what do I want to give my time and my life for? And you decide what really matters most. Nothing really happens until you schedule it. You may say spending time with God is important. You may say spending time with your kids is important. You may say quality time with your spouse is important. You may say exercise or anything else is important, but if you don't schedule it, it's not really important to you. Scheduling is where the rubber meets the road. Start setting a date with yourself and with the Lord and with your spouse ... things like that. Thank you for taking the time to read through this message. -Pastor Fernando Villicana, Fire Service Chaplain
CONNECTICUT
The rear porches light up.
MICHAEL CARENZA JR
Recently Condemned Building Burns in New Britain New Britain, CT - On February 9th around 4:35 A.M., multiple calls were coming in for a structure fire at a location in the area of Arch Street. The fire was located at 408 Arch Street in a four-story brick building that was recently condemned by the City on February 1st. There was heavy fire in the basement and entering the first-
JUMP TO FILE #021018101 floor. After fighting the fire from inside, all companies were pulled out as the fire travelled up the walls in the balloon-frame constructed building into other floors and the attic. Two firefighters received
minor injuries in this two-alarm fire that was brought under control around 10:00 A.M., and totally extinguished around noon. Bristol, West Hartford and Hartford provided station coverage. The fire is under investigation by the City and State Fire Marshals, as well as the Police. - MICHAEL CARENZA JR
MICHAEL CARENZA JR
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
March, 2018
PAGE 17
PAGE 18
March, 2018
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
March, 2018
PAGE 19
PAGE 20
March, 2018
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
NEW HAMPSHIRE
First-Alarm Fire Destroys Barn in Rochester Rochester, NH - Rochester Fire Department responded to a 911 call for a structure fire on Thursday, February 8th, when UMP TO FILE# a neighbor reported J020918100 flames coming out of a building near 773 Salmon Falls Road. Crews arrived on scene to a fully involved 30'x40' garage and called a first-alarm for mutual aid to respond to the scene. Eversource was also called, as the electricity lines going to the garage had detached and fallen in the area. Traffic was rerouted and Salmon Falls Road was shut down as firefighters from surrounding communities of Dover, Durham, Somersworth and Berwick, Maine arrived on scene to assist. The bulk of the fire was knocked down quickly, but extensive overhaul was needed as firefighters were unable to enter as the roof of the structure began to collapse soon after arrival. The cause of the fire is thought to be accidental, and there were no injuries. - ERIN THOMAS
Rochester Firefighter Snyder preparing for overhaul while the barn fire at Salmon Falls Road is knocked down.
ERIN THOMAS
Remembering All Those Lost AFTER 9-11
PRIZED POSSESSIONS If you have photos you would like to see in our “Prized Possessions� feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
I am one of many retired NYC firemen who went to the towers to offer my help in the recovery. It always amazed me that there were so many rescue and firefighters that came from all parts of the country to help. After 9-11, the NYFD notified its members about the passing of its members. In 2002, one firefighter passed away from a World Trade Center illness (WTC). The following year it was four firefighters. Going ahead to 2017 the numbers go up to 20. Since 9-11, a total of 165 members of the NYFD have now died from WTC illness. I also found out that more than 1,000 recovery workers have died since 911. It is reported that by 2020 there will be more people dead from 9-11 than all those who were killed on 9-11-01. The federal government took
DAMIEN DANIS
We are excited to be debuting our new feature called "Prized Possessions," that will showcase people's FIRE/EMS related possessions and collectibles! We are 'kicking it off' by featuring these flame sneakers worn by 1st Responder News correspondent, Damien Danis. When asked about his infamous sneakers, Damien had this to say: "I wear the sneakers only once a year to the Wildwood Fire Expo. The flames go with my nickname, "Flamien Damien". My friend's brother gave me the nickname years ago and it stuck!!"
JUMP TO FILE #012318121 11 years to recognize 58 types of cancer connected to the events of 9-11. I was one of the lucky ones to survive two types of cancer. We must never forget 9-11 and those we lost that day, but we must also remember all those that have died after 9-11 and continue to die. To view the list of names of WTC Related Illness Deaths, please visit: http://www.ufanyc.org/wtcrelated/ - THOMAS COONEY
Thomas Cooney is a retired member of NYFD Ladder 30 and author of "The Man Behind Badge 711".
Serving g those who se erve us. HeroesMortgagePrograam.com
87 77-541-HERO
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
March, 2018
PAGE 21
PAGE 22
March, 2018
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MAINE
MEMORIAL BOARD
If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Memorial Board” feature please upload them on our website www.1RBN.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
Vehicle News
Berwick Fire Department is welcoming two new identical fire/rescue trucks into it's firehouse this year. One of the new pumpers stopped by the station recently after traveling from Iowa; the firefighters along with Chief Dennis Plante gathered at the station for it's arrival. The new pumpers were engineered and built at the Toyne manufacturing plant in Breda, Iowa. The station has been anticipating the trucks for nearly a year while they were being built. Toyne and Eastern Fire
Phippsburg, Maine – O’Neill Skiff Burrows, 76, of Phippsburg, Maine, passed away early Sunday morning, Jan. 28, 2018, after succumbing to injuries sustained in a fall. He was the husband of Karen Andrew Burrows.
O’Neill was born in Waterbury, Conn. on Feb. 19, 1941, son of the late Charles Frederick Burrows and Emily O’Neill Burrows. He was raised in Woodbury, Conn., where he graduated from Woodbury High School and later attended Southern Connecticut State University. He was a consummate athlete, excelling at baseball and basketball, and played a serious game of golf. He was an avid racing fan and knew the lyrics to every Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings and Johnny Cash song in existence.
O’Neill’s driving passion, however, was the service he performed as a firefighter. He began his firefighting career while still in high school, and continued this service throughout his adult life. He was a member of Watertown Fire Department for 42 years, beginning in 1970, and served in the roles of lieutenant, captain, training officer and deputy chief. In 1992, he achieved a lifelong dream, becoming fire chief and fire marshal for the town of Watertown. He served as chief of the department until 1997, and continued as fire marshal until
his retirement in 2005.
Apparatus communicated with the department regularly, updating the Chief and staff with progress pictures throughout the build process.
Both trucks feature a Spartan Metro Star MFD 10" chassis, Cummins ISL 450 horsepower engines and 3000 Allison EVS transmissions and will carry a hefty 1200-gallons of water operating with 1500-gallon Hale pumps, and the trucks also feature Fire Research telescoping lights. The twin trucks will upgrade the Department's fire-
fighting capabilities, as Berwick Fire responds to an average of 900 calls per year, serving also as mutual aid to several neighboring communities.
Berwick purchased the new equipment through authorized Toyne dealership Eastern Fire Apparatus in Milton, New Hampshire. The trucks are expected to be in service and ready for response this February. - ERIN THOMAS
PROVIDED
O’Neill felt privileged to serve as president of the Waterbury Area Fire Chiefs, president of the Litchfield County Plan, president of the Connecticut State Firefighters Association (CSFA), member and vice president of CSFA County, member of CSFA Irregulars Association, president of the State Fire Marshals Association, member of the International Fire Chiefs Association, member of the New England Fire Chiefs Association, member of the New England Fire Marshals Association and member of the National Fire Protection Association.
One of the new Fire/Rescue Pumpers arrives at the Bewick Fire Department. the Connecticut Parade Marshals Association and was instrumental in founding the Connecticut Firefighters Memorial and Hall of Fame. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2012.
of his long career was being honored to deliver a speech during post-9/11 memorial services held in Connecticut. Besides his wife of 48 years, O’Neill leaves behind three sons, William Burrows of Phippsburg, Maine, Christopher
ERIN THOMAS
Faust and his wife Megan, of Newton, Mass. and David Faust and his wife Joni, of Ridgemont, N.Y. He also leaves behind five grandchildren, Charles, Emory, Karlee, Adelaide and Sascha. O’Neill was predeceased by his sister, Susan Ganavage.
Professional Vehicle Corporation
He was also an active judge for
One the most moving moments
Serving New England Call today for more information
1-800-894-7788
View our website at www.provc.net for emergency vehicle parts & accessories.
Congratulations Deerfield Valley Rescue on their Remount Located in Wilmington, VT
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
March, 2018
PAGE 23
PAGE 24
March, 2018
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
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.
Oxford Fire EMS will be increasing full time staffing after being awarded the Safer Grant. FF Ben Lewis and FF Kevin Holstrom will be starting their new positions in mid January 2018. FF Holstrom has almost 12 years experience as a call firefighter on Sturbridge FD and Brimfield FD. While on Brimfield, FF Holstrom held the positions of Lieutenant, Assistant Fire Inspector, Assistant Training Officer Assistant SAFE Program Coordinator, and he worked as one of Brimfield's full time EM's. FF Lewis has over 3 years of experience working as a call firefighter for the Town of Webster and was a full time EMT for Webster EMS. CAPT RDL
RICHARD BILLINGS
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
March, 2018
PAGE 25
PAGE 26
March, 2018
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
March, 2018
PAGE 27
MASSACHUSETTS
ICE RESCUE SUITS Mustang and Stearns
Ice Commander Suits Size: Universal Adult IC9001-03 $675.00 IC9002-02 $935.00
JIM FORTIN JR
Fully Involved Camp in Lancaster
Lancaster, MA - The Lancaster F.D. was dispatched for a structure fire at 956 Brockelman Rd. at 7:30 P.M. on February 4th. Engine 2 arrived to find a one-story camp fully involved. Command requested a Working Fire assignment for tankers and reported ammunition going off inside, as well as propane tanks venting in the rear. Multiple handlines were stretched for a defensive attack. The bulk of the fire was knocked down in 30 minutes. Mutual aid at the scene came from Boylston, Clinton, Devens, Harvard and Sterling. Crews began overhaul and command started releasing companies within the hour. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
PET FRIENDS
If you have photos you would like to see in our “Pet Friends” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
CAPT RDL
Oxford FIRE EMS Firefighter Robby Gryncewicz with "Puck".
I595 Ice Rescue Suit - $425.00 Oversize - $475.00
4185 Type III SAR Vest Small to XXL - $106.00 XXXL - $108.50 4XL to 7XL - $113.25 Throw Bags • Ice Picks
Call Shannon for More Information! 800-492-0779 or 603-436-2836
New England Marine & Industrial www.newenglandmarine.com
PAGE 28
March, 2018
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
PATCH OF THE MONTH
If you have photos you would like to see in our “Patch of the Month� feature please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
K. LEGER
EUGENE WEBER JR.
This patch belongs to Chicopee Fire Department, located in Hampden County, MA.
Fall River Firefighters Battle Fire in Hardware Store Fall River, MA - At 3:36 P.M. on February 2nd, firefighters responded to 1338 Pleasant Street for a reported still alarm at Flint Hardware store. Engine 9 reported smoke showing on approach and pulled up to a working fire. The crew of Engine 9 pulled an attack line to the rear of the store but were unable to find the seat of the fire. Car 2 arrived under the command of District Chief James Mellen, who ordered the leader lines be pulled from Engine 9 in order to reach the rear of the store. Ladder 4 used their aerial ladder to vent the roof of the one-and-a-half story structure that was surrounded by
JUMP TO FILE #020218107 (three) three-story occupied dwellings. Firefighters were making an aggressive interior attack when Command ordered the evacuation of the building as flames took control of the attic area and spread throughout the building. Command ordered the fire ground to go to defensive operations as heavy fire broke through the roof. During the fire-fight, three firefighters were operating an exposure line in the alley between the store and the three-story "B" expo-
sure, when part of the "A/B" corner and facade collapsed, knocking the firefighters too the ground. Command rapidly called for a second-alarm, followed closely by a third-alarm. Several explosions were heard during the height of the battle, coming from the fully stocked hardware and feed store. Special Services arrived on scene to provide lighting and Rehab to on-scene personnel. The original fire building was destroyed, while the exposures sustained severe heat and smoke damage. Several firefighters were transported with minor injuries. - KENNETH LEGER
COURTESY PHOTO
Fire Explorer Appointed Lieutenant in Stoneham
Stoneham, MA - On Monday, January 29th, the Stoneham Fire Explorer Program announced the well deserved promotion of a dedicated and respected Fire Explorer. Explorer Robert L. Herrick IV, age 15, has been promoted to the rank of Fire Explorer Lieutenant, effective immediately. Robert has served with distinction over the course of the past year and had previously served as Acting Lieutenant on a number of occasions. Lieutenant Herrick will work closely with the program's command staff and advisors, helping shape and direct the future of the Fire Explorer program. (L to R): Explorer Post Advisor Lt. Brian Cronin, and Fire Explorer Lieutenant Robert L. Herrick, IV.
Firefighters knocked down by partial collapse of the facade.
K. LEGER
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
PETER LOBO
PETER LOBO
Vehicle Rollover with Entrapment in Waltham Waltham, MA - On February 3rd at 6:30 A.M., Waltham police and fire received a call for a vehicle rollover with entrapment at Blossom and Lincoln Streets. Engine 7, Rescue 1, Medic 1 and Ambulance 2 responded but were unable to find an accident. After 10 minutes of searching, a 911 dispatcher determined by the driver's cell phone GPS, that the car was located in the rear parking lot of an apartment complex. Firefighters stabilized the car and removed the woman. She refused medical attention.
DID Y OU K NOW
?
Paramedics always notice how IV-friendly your veins are, even if you are not their patient. You think he’s looking at you in a romantic way? He’s probably thinking about how your veins would be great for a 14-gauge needle.
March, 2018
PAGE 29
PAGE 30
March, 2018
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
JIM FORTIN JR
Vehicle Fire Spreads to Garage in Natick
Natick, MA - The Natick F.D. responded to 7 Pinehurst Ave. for a van on fire next to a detached garage on January 28th at 1:30 P.M. Ambulance 2 arrived to find a well involved minivan spreading to the single-story garage next to it. Car 2 requested the second-alarm, bringing all Natick apparatus to the scene as well as mutual aid to cover. Multiple hand lines were stretched from Engine 4 to begin the fire attack. The majority of the fire was knocked down in 20 minutes. A tow truck was called to remove the vehicle and companies began to pack up. The cause of the fire is under investigation and no injuries were reported.
JOHN SJOSTEDT
Patient Resuscitated by Firefighters at Scene of MVA in Plympton
Plympton, MA - Firefighters responded to the area of 159 County Road on January 19th for a report of a rollover MVA. First arriving units found a vehicle over a rock wall on it's roof. One victim was extricated by police in cardiac arrest. Firefighters immediately began CPR and the patient was resuscitated. A Medflight helicopter was called and transported the patient to Boston Medical Center with life-threatening injuries.
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.
PETER LOBO
Shredder Truck Fire in Waltham
Waltham, MA - On January 15th, a man walked into Waltham Engine 4’s quarters on Prospect Street to report a truck fire across the street. A truck carrying shredded paper was smoldering. In addition to Engine 4, Ladder 2 also responded. Initially, Engine 4 used water. Captain Rich Grant then opted to use a chemical foam. It took firefighters about 45 minutes to completely extinguish the fire.
CAPT RDL
Members of Oxford FIRE EMS Ambulance 3 running multiple calls during heavy snow fall in January.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
March, 2018
PAGE 31
PAGE 32
March, 2018
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
EMS Mom Recounts Personal Experience Responding to Son’s Burning Home Stillwater, NJ - Responding to a call for help is a normal day in the Martin family. My husband Bill, who was a 23-year veteran of EMS, died while driving an ambulance to a landing zone. He was transporting a burn victim from a structure fire. My son Andy is an offi- JUMP TO FILE# cer with the Sussex 011118116 County Sheriff's Dept. Andy is also an EMR with the Stillwater Emergency Rescue Squad. I have 28 years of service to EMS. I was a 911 operator for over 10 years. Volunteerism and community service is our way of life. It's a commitment we passed to our children. Andy and Beth were recently married and spent the first few weeks of marriage painting an old Victorian house. They cleaned and polished till everything gleamed. They displayed wedding photos and wedding presents. They were settling down to enjoy being a new family. On January 4, 2018, I responded to a call for a smell of smoke; it was the home of my son and his wife Beth. I got a panicked call from Beth telling me she smelled smoke in her home. She had called the fire department, but she was okay. I raced out the door and was on the way there in minutes. Because the location was just up the street, I was first on scene. I notified dispatch via radio that I was just seconds out. As I got to the end of the street, I noticed the bright orange color in the lower windows. The glow was terrifying, as I didn't see my daughter-in-law outside. I shouted in the radio, "I got flames showing". Later, one fireman approached me and said that he has known me for years and that was the first time he heard panic in my voice. He said he rolled out of bed faster. A longtime fire dept. member from a neighboring town called me and said my radio dispatch made the hair on his neck stand on end. He said he knew I was in trouble. Another EMS member told me he stepped up his response when he heard my voice. I will admit that is the first time in my life I witnessed the devil...it was in the form of FIRE..it was sheer terror. So many horrible thoughts ran through my head in those few short seconds. Flashbacks to almost five years ago when Bill went to a structure fire and didn't come back. I searched the darkness and finally saw Beth running toward me in her nightgown and robe. I have never felt such relief. She was safe, but crying and covered in black soot. I held her tight trying to calm my fear. I notified dispatch that the structure had been evacuated. Stillwater EMS arrived on scene. They offered blankets and a warm place
to sit inside the truck. It was hard to walk away, so we stayed...watching. EMS stayed with us. Beth and I watched the flames lick through the walls and melt the siding. The windows buckled and fell out. The shattering noise of glass breaking was heart wrenching. Black smoke with bright embers floated up in the night sky. The bone-numbing cold cut through us while we watched the fire grow brighter. We were helpless till the fire department arrived on scene. Minutes later, the trucks arrived, one after another. Men and women jumped off the trucks ready to tackle what was destroying a new family's dream. My son, Andy, arrived from work. He jumped in carrying hoses, still in uniform. Neighboring fire departments were simultaneously dispatched for this structure fire, an action that saved the home. Thank you "Tripod dispatch". When the fire was extinguished and the scene cleared for safety, we were escorted into the house to get much needed possessions. Walking into the house, we saw walls with dripping water, heavy black soot and charred memories. New furniture that was polished with pride, now covered with fallen plaster and broken ceiling fans. Destruction was everywhere, nothing was recognizable in the main fire area. Christmas presents totally gone. What was left there was only huge masses of sodden ash and soot. The walls and doors six-feet down from the ceiling were covered with black soot. The light switches and furnace thermostat were melted mass dripping down the walls. The heat was intense; the fire did its damage. As we walked through the house my son noted his prized John Wayne posters were leaning against the wall. They were covered in black. He dropped his head and just walked away. I got three firefighters to secure these framed posters and turn them over to EMS to safe guard for us. Throughout the house, Andy and Beth picked up what they could save. They kept saying to each other, "no one was hurt," "it's just stuff," and "it's okay". The one wedding present they bought themselves was a huge big screen tv. It was Andy's pride and joy. He had it hooked up before he had cable. It melted off the wall. On the floor below where it hung lay the mass that once brought joy. Andy just hung his head. No words. Just silence. Returning to his childhood home, Andy brought his new wife and black garbage bags of what was salvaged in his burnt home. No toothbrush, no clean clothes, just what they were wearing. So many friends and family have reached out to make sure they were okay. These contacts have kept them going. A GoFundMe page was started and the response has been overwhelming. Responses from as far
Before the fire struck.
away as Germany have been coming in. Days after the fire, a request for clean up and salvage assistance was put out via Facebook. Not knowing how many, or if anyone would show up, we went back to the house. Our family was met at the scene by neighbors, friends, family, EMS and fire department members. All ready to help. The Stillwater mayor, Lisa Chammings, came and was working in the muck with us. Stillwater Emergency Rescue squad came with a rig, crew and Captain. Yes, an ambulance. After all, we are an EMS family. There is always an ambulance. Stillwater Fire Department
After the fire struck.
PROVIDED
members were there helping with salvaging of what we could find. The local church opened its doors for food and a warm place to rest. Neighbors who could not help dropped off packing supplies and food. The Stillwater community gathered around to assist one of their own. The cold just seeped through your clothing no matter how warm you dressed. The smell, oh the smell. You don't forget that quickly. Not one person complained. On that day there would be no tears, just smiles. Everyone was there for Andy and Beth. A few hours after the clean up at the house, I received a call from the EMS crew. They were stopping
at the house. They had a surprise. Rob Losey and Trevor Havens of Stillwater Emergency Rescue Squad brought back the three posters that were taken from the house the night of the fire. They had spent hours cleaning the John Wayne posters until they were pristine. These young men took time to ease the pain of a fellow volunteer. That is family. That is a volunteer for EMS and Fire. I am proud to say I am a resident of Stillwater, N.J., where the term "family" includes your neighbors, friends and fellow volunteers. - TERI MARTIN
PROVIDED
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
March, 2018
MEET ROVER
Meet His App “ROVER MOBILE”
Phone: (203) 445 6536 • www.spotteddogtech.com Built by firefighters, for firefighters
PAGE 33
PAGE 34
March, 2018
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
FDNY Fires of the Past, Volume 1 VIDEO REVIEW
Video reviews by John Malecky
F.D.N.Y. FIRES OF THE PAST Volume 1 By Fireline Video Productions Available from: FSP Books & Videos 188 Central Street, Suite #4 Hudson, MA 01749-1330 1-800-522-8528 e-mail:fire-police-ems.com www.fire-police-ems.com Price: $29.95 (DVD) This DVD is 60 minutes in length. It was originally produced by Advance Print & Video and is now re-released by Fireline Video Productions. It is an assortment of large and difficult fires which took place from 1989 through 1992. There are nine incidents. Narration is brief and generally states the bor-
ough, the year and sometimes the date, the number of alarms, the type of structure or incident, and one or two of the highlights. Sometimes the location, as to the intersection or address, is given. There are two six-alarms, one fourth-alarm, three third-alarms, one second-alarm and two others not classified, however one is a vacant warehouse in Brooklyn and the other a gas explosion on 7th Avenue underground in Manhattan. So they were both major incidents. Some are apartment houses or warehouses, a cockloft fire, a dramatic rope rescue, wall collapses, rescues made down an aerial ladder, tower ladder streams, ground handlines and master streams. Heavy streams are popular! Many if not most of the incidents are at night. Also, because these fires were years ago, the viewer will see a lot of the older apparatus working. It is a good example of firefighters and the EMS working together. It is not a DVD you would want to miss!
MARK GRABOWSKI
Firefighters in Chicopee Battle Structure Fire in Freezing Temps
Chicopee Falls, MA - Firefighters were dispatched to 103/105 East Street in Chicopee Falls on Friday, February 2nd, for reports of a structure fire. While battling the blaze, firefighters were covered with ice cubes around their helmets and gear due to the below-freezing frigid weather! The building was home at one time for the USMC recruiting offices. T&L ANTIQUES occupied the building. The cause is still under investigation. Deputy Chief Matthew Cross was the officer in charge. Amherst Fire Chief Tim Nelson brought the rehab van to offer warmth and hot beverages to the firefighters. Mutual Aid was also provided by area fire departments. Fortunately, no one was injured.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
March, 2018
PAGE 35
MASSACHUSETTS
PETER LOBO
KIM DEWOLFE
Two-Alarm Fire in Ipswich
Ipswich, MA - Firefighters responded to 95 North Ridge Rd. on January 13th for reports of a vacant house fire. Firefighters encountered heavy smoke and fire upon arrival. A second-alarm was struck and deck guns were used to knock the fire down.
Car Strikes Building in Waltham Waltham, MA - Waltham firefighters from Group 1 received a call for a car into a building at 130 Lexington Street on January 18th. Lt. Matt Kiernan of Rescue 1 said that when he saw the call pop up on the computer screen, he thought it was a mistake because they had an identical call there four days earlier. Engine 2, Rescue 1 and Medic 2 responded and found a car up against the window of Dunkin Donuts, 20-
JUMP TO FILE #011818108 feet from where the previous accident occurred. An elderly man parked in front of Dunkin, hit the gas in reverse and crashed into a van which then hit a parked pickup. Then, he drove back toward Dunkin and hit a cement pillar, coming to a stop and just miss-
ing the front window of the building. Two patrons inside sitting at the window could not believe when the car came flying back toward them. The driver was uninjured. Deputy Roger Hebert requested the building inspector, who could not believe he was back to the same location. This was the third such type accident in Waltham in one week. - PETER LOBO
PETER LOBO
Suspicious Package Found in Waltham
Waltham, MA - Waltham police and fire responded on February 5th to a suspicious package at 48 Word Avenue. Engine 1 ambulance 1 and C2 responded. A portion of the parking lot and cafeteria were cordoned off. The Mass State Police were called in and found the package to contain clothing.
PETER LOBO
PAGE 36
March, 2018
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
BUDDY SHOTS
If you have photos you would like to see in our “Buddy Shots� feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
Waltham firefighters from Engine 2 at a large mulch pile fire, (L to R): Melissa McCarthy, Jim MacDonald and Bill MacDonald.
PETER LOBO
One member is silhouetted by smoke and early morning light while inside the garage.
NATE ARNOLD
Room and Contents Fire Quickly Knocked Down in Springfield Members of Oxford FIRE EMS, (L to R): Captain Lambert, LT. Lambert, Deputy Chief Belanger, FF Rudman, Chief Ford, FF Lewis, FF Prefontaine, FF Holstrom and Captain Sellers. CAPT RDL
Springfield, MA - A room and contents fire in an attached singlecar garage displaced three city residents from their home at 9:00 A.M. on Saturday, January 27th. A full first-alarm assignment was dispatched for the reported structure fire and the first companies arrived on scene within four minutes of the alarm to find heavy smoke and fire showing from the garage that is attached to the "Bravo/Charlie" cor-
JUMP TO FILE #020318113 ner of the structure. Members stretched hand lines to the garage and the "Alpha" and "Charlie" side entrances while the Rescue Squad conducted a primary search of the dwelling. Crews executed a fast interior attack on the fire, containing the bulk of the fire
damage to the garage, but the rest of the home sustained significant smoke damage. The fire did $25,000 in damage according to the SFD's Executive aide to the Fire Commissioner. The three displaced residents are being assisted by the Pioneer Valley of the American Red Cross. - NATE ARNOLD
Waltham firefighters from Engine 2 and Rescue 1 at the scene of a car into a building on January 18th, (L to R): LT. Kevin Ciccone, Mike Murphy, Don Hopkins, Joe Lazro, Joe Pino, Mike Schueller and LT. Matt Kiernan.
PETER LOBO
JIM FORTIN JR
Newly Built Home in Westborough Damaged by Fire
Oxford FIRE EMS Group 3, (L to R): Oxford Fire-EMS LT. Lambert, FF Prefontaine, FF Rudman and FF Holstrom. CAPT RDL
Westborough, MA - The Westborough F.D. received a call reporting a structure fire at 13 Preservation Lane at 11:05 A.M. on January 19th. The caller reported seeing flames coming from the roof of the home. Car 1 arrived to find a two-and-a-half story wood-frame with smoke showing, and the Working Fire was requested. Engine 4 arrived and stretched a handline to the secondfloor, where they found the main body of fire. The primary search confirmed that nobody was home at the time. Companies were able to get the fire knocked down in 20 minutes and the incident was placed under control at 11:30 A.M. Southborough T21 and Northborough E2 assisted at the scene, while Hopkinton E4 covered the town. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
March, 2018
PAGE 37
ICE RESCUE
February 15 - 18, 2018 Portland, Maine
PETER LOBO
Car Strikes Building in Waltham
Waltham, MA - An elderly woman crashed into 130 Lexington Street in Waltham on January 14th. Waltham Engine 2, Rescue 1 and Medic 2 responded. The woman was not injured. This was the second time in three days that a car had crashed into a building in Waltham.
2018 INTERNATIONAL TRAIN-THE-TRAINER ACADEMIES Register Online!
LIFESAVING RESOURCES www.lifesaving.com 207/967-8614
WATER RESCUE May 17 - 20, 2018 Portland, Maine
JIM FORTIN JR
Car Versus Building in Berlin
Berlin, MA - The Berlin F.D. responded for a reported car that had crashed into the Shell gas station at 64 River Rd. W. around 3:00 P.M. on January 19th. Crews arrived to find a GMC Acadia that had crashed into the front of the building. A total of four ambulances were called to the scene to transport the victims of the crash. The extent of their injuries is unknown and the cause of the crash is under investigation.
D ID YOU K NOW
?
For patients involved in a motor vehicle accident, strokes or heart attacks, the firefighters along with the EMTs only have 1 hour, also known as the golden hour, from the second the accident takes place to get the patients to the hospital and seen by a doctor.
PAGE 38
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
March, 2018
MASSACHUSETTS
VENDOR SPOTLIGHT
New England
KIMTEK Announces Upgrades with Mercedes Booster Hose and Draft Kits JOHN SJOSTEDT
Car Fire in Plymouth
Plymouth, MA - Firefighters responded to Route 3 North between Exits 6-7 for a car fire on January 11th. On arrival, companies found a vehicle fully involved. The fire was quickly extinguished and there were no injuries.
HE HE ER ERO ROES RO OES ES INK INK
1st Responder Newspape er features EMERGENCY SERVICES RELA ATED TATTOOS
"My name is ex-Captain Steve Delamar, from fire emergency services Heavy Rescue Co. No. 1. in Central Islip, New York. I have been with the company 24 years. The shark has been on our trucks for the past 35 years. As you would say, here is the jaws of life."
Would you like your emergency services related tattoo featured here? Contact Lindsey at
Lindsey@1strespondernews.com
Boostlite® and Draftlite® become standard equipment on select FIRELITE® skid units
January 17, 2018--Orleans, VT KIMTEK Corp, makers of MEDLITE® and FIRELITE® Transport skid units for off-road rescue and wildland firefighting, today announced a new relationship with Mercedes Textiles, Canadian manufacturers of firefighting systems including fire hoses, couplings, adapters, accessories, and fire pumps. KIMTEK has made Mercedes Boostlite® non-collapsible reel booster hose the new standard on all its UTV and Truck FIRELITE® skid units that feature the Hannay 4000 series reels. Heavy duty and kink resistant even at low pressure, Mercedes Boostlite hose weighs an average of 30 lb less than rubber jacketed booster hose. This state-of-the-art addition represents another top-of-the-line fixture to KIMTEK's long list of trusted product offerings available on its skid units, already including W.S. Darley pumps, Hannay reels, Scotty foam systems, and others.
Drafting kit upgrades also in effect KIMTEK has also announced that new for 2018, every KIMTEK FIRELITE® FDHP-300 series truck skid unit will come with a complete Mercedes Draftlite® Kit which includes the Hydro-Wick® hand primer, 20 ft of 1.5” high pressure suction hose, and a HydroWick foot valve with strainer. The Hydro-Wick hand primer is hardplumbed into the stainless steel piping with a separate valve. This kit seamlessly mates to the 5.5, 9 and 13 HP FIRELITE-300 series skid units and assists with drafting from virtually any source of water.
KIMTEK will make the new Mercedes Draftlite Kit available as a stand-alone purchase intended for customers who already own a FIRELITE Transport 300 series or UTV skid unit and want to improve their drafting capability. In this application the Kit's hand primer will include a 1.5" NH (NST) coupling. The Draftlite® kits ship complete
from KIMTEK.
About KIMTEK Corporation Founded in 1984 as a research and development company dedicated to advances in life safety technology in the fire sciences, KIMTEK Corporation is the largest producer and marketer of ATV/UTV and pickuptruck skid units for public safety agencies in the U.S. KIMTEK's FIRELITE® fire and rescue skid units and MEDLITE medical skid units are now in service worldwide, including all branches of the U.S. military, the National Park Service, numerous NASCAR tracks, sporting complexes, schools, and universities. KIMTEK Transport skid units are proudly made in the USA. For more information, please contact KIMTEK at 888-546-8358 or visit the company's websites at www.kimtekresearch.com and www.brushtruckskids.com.
KIMTEK
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
March, 2018
PAGE 39
PAGE 40
March, 2018
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE