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MAY, 2019
TWO ALARMS STRUCK AT FULLY INVOLVED FIRE IN LONGMEADOW
NATE ARNOLD
Longmeadow, MA - A fast-moving fire gutted a single-family home in the affluent town of Longmeadow during the mid-afternoon of April 25th, displacing two residents and blanketing the neighborhood with smoke for several hours. - See full story on page 21
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May, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
NEW HAMPSHIRE
JAY L HEATH
Family Displaced by Overnight House Fire in Webster
Webster, NH - Firefighters from several towns battled a second-alarm fire overnight on April 17th in Webster. Concord fire alarm dispatched the fire at 11:42 P.M. with automatic mutual aid from several towns to 1036 Corn Hill Road for a house fire. First arriving firefighters found heavy fire in the rear of the house. The family and their dog had escaped outside safely. Firefighters made an aggressive attack inside as the crew from Concord Engine 5 and Rescue 5 vented the roof. The three bedroom house suffered extensive smoke and water damage. The fire was placed under control at 12:50 A.M. with extensive overhaul operations on the top floor of the house. The Red Cross also responded to the scene to assist the residents. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
PATRICK KERRIGAN
Working Fire Damages Vacant Nashua Dwelling
Nashua, NH - Nashua firefighers responded to a working fire at 40 West Hollis Street around 7:00 A.M., April 18th. Upon arrival of E4, fire was showing from the second-floor of a two-anda-half story, wood-frame vacant dwelling. Crews made an aggressive interior attack and knocked down the fire in a short amount of time. Searches proved to be negative and the fire was placed under control a short time later.
LITTLE BIG GUYS If you have photos you would like to see in our Little Big Guys feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
WEARE FD
Two Cars Crash Head-On in Weare
Weare, NH - A serious MVA occurred in Weare on Wednesday, April 24th. Weare Fire Rescue responded to the motor vehicle accident in the vicinity of 1030 Concord Stage Road around 12:16 P.M. Once on scene, WFR duty crew found that three vehicles were involved, two of which having collided headon. Although the outcome could have been much worse, one adult man was transported to Concord Hospital with serious, but non-life-threatening injuries. Ambulances from Concord and Dunbarton provided mutual aid assistance.
SEAN FESKO/FDNH911
Dunbarton Fire Rescue operates this 1987 GMC 4x4 as a rescue company and cascade unit. It's designated as Rescue 1.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
May, 2019
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May, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
NEW HAMPSHIRE
Advertising Index
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Utility Communications
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Shaker Auto Group
SEAN FESKO/FDNH911 DERRY FIRE DEPT.
Large Tree Falls onto MultiFamily Structure in Derry Derry, NH - At 6:02 P.M. on April 3rd, the Derry Fire Communications Center received notification from Derry Police that a large tree had struck #13 Silvestri Circle, Hillside Estates. Derry Ladder 4 responded to investigate. On arrival, Ladder 4 found that a very large tree, approximately 100-feet in length and twoand-a-half feet wide, had fallen on the building, striking two units and causing significant damage. At the time the tree struck the building, one unit was occupied by two adults and required evacuation. The second apartment was not occupied at the time of the incident. Ladder 4 was assisted by Derry Fire Bureau of Investigation and Derry Code and Enforcement.
JUMP TO FILE #040419107 It was determined that the two units that received the damage were uninhabitable. Property Management provided housing at a local hotel for two adults from one unit, and a single adult from the second unit will be staying with family. Advantage Tree Service worked into the evening to remove the tree with use of a large crane. The incident was dispatched at 6:02 P.M., Ladder 4 was on-scene at 6:09 P.M. and cleared at 9:03 P.M.
Amherst Responds on Smoke Investigation, Strikes Two Alarms
Amherst, NH - On April 1st, Amherst Fire Rescue was dispatched to the area of Horace Greeley Road for a smoke investigation. C1 arrived and found a two-story house on Parkhurst Drive with heavy fire in the attic and requested a second-alarm assignment. Due to the location of the fire building, multiple tankers were called to the scene and long stretches of hose needed to be laid. The fire was fought defensively and knocked down within one hour. Mutual aid from Merrimack, Mont Vernon, Milford, New Boston, Litchfield and Bedford operated at the scene.
- DERRY FIRE DEPT.
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 Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
31 B. SPRAGUE
Outside Hoarding Conditions in Windham Makes Access to Fire Tough
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SEAN FESKO/FDNH911
The Manchester Fire Department's air unit operates this 2010 International with a 1988 E-One box. Prior to 2010, Air 1 was mounted on a 1988 Ford C chassis and originally served as the department's first heavy rescue unit.
Windham, NH - Windham Fire Department received a report of an outside fire threatening a home around 6:00 P.M. on April 3rd. Upon arrival at 10 Allen Road, firefighters found several outbuildings and brush burning. It took about two hours to bring the fires under control, which were fast-moving because of high winds that day. Fire personnel remained on scene overnight for possible rekindling. The homeowner suffered minor burns. Windham Fire is investigating, but foul play is not suspected.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
May, 2019
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May, 2019
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In memory of those who gave all
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
1st Responder Newspaper honors and remembers emergency responders lost in the line of duty
Iowa: Eric M. Hosette, 33 Rank: Lieutenant Incident Date: January 5, 2019 Death Date: January 5, 2019 Fire Department: Clinton Fire Department Initial Summary: At 5:45 a.m., the Clinton Fire Department’s on-duty crew responded to a reported smoldering fire in a silo storage bin at Archer-Daniels-Midland loading facility. At 7:00 a.m., the scene was handed off to the next crew coming on-duty which included Lieutenant Eric Hosette. Nearly two hours later at 8:45 a.m., Hosette was injured in an explosion at the scene. Hosette was transported to Mercy Medical Center where, despite all efforts, he passed away. A second firefighter was critically injured during the explosion but survived. New York: Steven H. Pollard, 30 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: January 6, 2019 Death Date: January 6, 2019 Fire Department: Fire Department New York City Initial Summary: Firefighter Steven Pollard arrived with the Fire Department of New York City’s Ladder Co. 170 at the scene of a motor vehicle accident on the Belt Parkway, just east of Flatbush Avenue. As he was assisting at the scene, Pollard fell through a gap dividing the eastbound and westbound lanes of an overpass bridge and plummeted 52 feet to the ground. Pollard was transported to Kings County Hospital where he passed away a short time later from the critical injuries he sustained in the fall. Tennessee: Jason Byrd, 42 Rank: District Chief (Station 14) Incident Date: February 18, 2019 Death Date: February 18, 2019 Fire Department: Fayette County Fire Department Initial Summary: District Chief (Station 14) Jason Byrd suffered an apparent heart attack while at the scene of a residential structure fire. Within 15 seconds of the medical emergency, responders administered advanced life support measures to Byrd and then transported him to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased. Alabama: Brenden Pierce, 21 Rank: Firefighter
Incident Date: February 20, 2019 Death Date: February 23, 2019 Fire Department: Palmerdale Fire District Initial Summary: On 02/19/19, Firefighter Brenden Pierce started his shift at the Palmerdale Fire District, Station 3. During this shift at approximately 12:30 a.m. on 02/20/2019, Pierce suffered a medical emergency after responding to a weather-related call. He was immediately transported to the Grandview Medical Center where he was declared brain dead on 02/20/2019. Because Pierce was an organ donor, his organs were transplanted to multiple recipients over the next few days. Pierce’s official date of death was 02/23/2019.
Massachusetts: Thomas Nye, 72 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: February 26, 2019 Death Date: February 27, 2019 Fire Department: Marion Fire Department Initial Summary: On 02/26/2019, Firefighter Thomas Nye helped extinguish a residential chimney fire and then returned home. He collapsed early the next morning on 02/27/2019 after suffering an apparent cardiac incident. Nye was transported to Tobey Hospital where he was pronounced deceased.
Maine: Joel Barnes, 32 Rank: Captain Incident Date: March 1, 2019 Death Date: March 1, 2019 Fire Department: Berwick Fire Department Initial Summary: Captain Joel Barnes was one of five firefighters who went into a three-story apartment building to fight a four-alarm fire. While inside the structure, conditions rapidly worsened. Three of the firefighters were able to escape. Barnes and one other firefighter became trapped in a room of a third-floor apartment. While waiting to be rescued, Barnes reportedly used his body to shield the other firefighter from the intense fire. Upon rescue, Barnes was unresponsive, and EMTs and other colleagues immediately performed life-saving measures on him. Barnes was then transported to Wentworth-Douglass Hospital where he was pronounced deceased from the injuries he sustained. The four other firefighters were treated and released by Wentworth-Douglass Hospital.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
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May, 2019
NEW HAMPSHIRE
DEPARTMENT PROFILE
If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Departmnt Profile” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
New Boston, NH was incorporated in 1763 and named by settlers after their former home of Boston, MA. Located in Hillsborough County, it's bordered by the towns of Weare, Mont Vernon, Amherst, Goffstown, Bedford, Francestown and Lyndeborough. The current population is about five-and-a-half thousand residents, many of whom live off of the numerous dirt roads found within the town’s 43.2-squaremile area. It's on these roads that 50 volunteer New Boston firefighters respond whenever an alarm sounds. The department has a long and proud history, including a period in which its new, 1872 pumper spent two years between its second and third-ever fires. The Fire of 1887 took place on May 11th and decimated the town, with a single fire engine and one mill building left standing. As the town rebuilt the fire department grew, moving into its current headquarters station in 1973. This station houses two engines, a hose reel unit, tanker, ambulance and utility
truck.
Engine 1 runs a 2006 KME Predator with 1250-GPM pump and 1000-gallon tank. Engine 2 is a 1991 KME with the same specs. This unit was refurbished in 2006. Hose 1 is a 1994 Ford L8000 outfitted with a 1000-GPM pump and 2800-feet of four-inch supply line. Tanker 1 is a 1988 Ford L9000 with Valley bodywork which holds 2200-gallons of water. Ambulance 1 is a 2016 Ford F550/PL Custom ambulance, while Utility 2 is a 2006 Ford F450 with a utility body.
One of New Boston’s most important protection areas is the 2800-acre US Air Force station located on the southeastern corner of the town. Prior to 1993, the USAF provided fire protection for the base. In 1993, the firehouse was demilitarized and New Boston, Amherst and Bedford co-staffed the station. Over time, Amherst and Bedford dropped out of the agreement, leaving New Boston the only town to staff the station and provide fire protection for
New Boston Fire-Rescue Headquarters.
New Boston Fire-Rescue Hilltop Station.
the USAF.
This station houses Engine 5, Forestry 1 and Ambulance 2. Engine 5 is a 1994 Spartan/3D with 1250-GPM pump and 1000gallon tank, which was acquired in 2013 from Londonderry, NH. It was refurbished in 2006. Forestry 1 is a 2006 Freightliner/V-Tec 4X4 with 250-GPM pump, 1000-gallon tank and 3200-feet of forestry hose. Ambulance 2 is a 2008 Ford E-450/PL Custom.
The department currently runs about 500 calls a year, mostly medicals, and is dispatched by Goffstown, which provides automatic aid in certain areas of the town.
A new fire station has been a priority for the department the past couple of years, as its headquarters is overcrowded and out of date. Plans have been drawn up and conversations are ongoing. (Special thanks to Chief MacDonald and Chris Kelleher for their assistance with this article.)
New Boston Ambulance 1.
SEAN FESKO/FDNH911
New Boston Engine 2.
SEAN FESKO/FDNH911
New Boston Forestry 1.
SEAN FESKO/FDNH911
New Boston Hose 1.
SEAN FESKO/FDNH911
SEAN FESKO/FDNH911
SEAN FESKO/FDNH911
New Boston Tanker 1.
SEAN FESKO/FDNH911
PAGE 8
May, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
NEW HAMPSHIRE
MATT NELSON
Three-Alarm Fire Heavily Damages Alton Home
Alton, NH - A three-alarm fire of unknown origin did heavy damage to a home in Alton on Friday, March 29th. The Lakes Region Communications Center received calls just after 8:00 P.M. for a fire on the second-floor at 293 Main Street. Everyone escaped the large two-and-a-half story building quickly, which also contained an in-law apartment. Fire quickly spread throughout the structure and three alarms were called, bringing numerous mutual aid companies in to help battle the blaze. Heavy equipment was eventually brought in to tear down the building to get at pockets of fire. A woman and her grandson were taken by ambulance to an area hospital as a precaution. The fire is under investigation.
DRILLS/TRAINING
If you have photos you would like to see in our Drills feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
WEARE FD
Weare Board of Fire Wards Recognizes Former Chairman for Years of Service
Weare, NH - On April 8th, Steve Roberts was recognized for his service to the Board of Fire Wards. Mr. Roberts’ previous career firefighter experience combined with his acuity as an engaged citizen proved invaluable in the evolution of the Fire Rescue Department to meet the service demands of the community. During his nine years on the Board, the Department has changed from the traditional volunteer response model to one that combines both part-time and on-call employees to answer fire and medical calls. Mr. Roberts stepped down as Chair in March of this year. Pictured are current Weare Board of Fire Wards presenting Former Chairman Steve Roberts with a commemorative plaque at their April meeting.
Eight Salem, NH firefighters finished up their year-long probation recently as part of the million dollar Safer Grant awarded to the Salem, NH Fire Department last spring. The last few days were spent finishing up their firefighting skills, which included pump training. Salem is growing every day and the calls are increasing rapidly. The eight new firefighters allow for a 17 firefighter per shift now, with five firefighters assigned to Station 3, the Lawrence Road firehouse. This allows for the Tower Ladder to be fully manned along with three ambulances fully manned, with the fourth ambulance cross-manned.
SEAN FESKO/FDNH911
Explosion Causes Two-Alarm Fire in Hooksett
JAY L HEATH
Eight Salem, NH firefighters have completed their year-long probation period recently this spring.
Hooksett, NH - Around 2:20 P.M. on April 6th, Hooksett Fire dispatched companies to a reported vehicle explosion and fire on Mammoth Road. First-due companies arrived at 63 Mammoth Road and found a vehicle fire that had extended to multiple structures. A second-alarm was struck and mutual aid from Concord, Manchester and Pembroke responded to the scene. Companies knocked down the fire within one hour. The cause was determined to be an explosion from a punctured gas tank.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
May, 2019
PAGE 9
MAINE
MEMORIES
PATCH OF THE MONTH
If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Memories” feature please upload them on our website www.1RBN.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
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.
EUGENE WEBER JR.
This patch belongs to Fort Kent Fire-Rescue, located in Aroostook County, ME.
CHUCK LOWE
York FD operated with a 1953 GMC Military 6x6 "Deuce and half" as Tank 2. It hauled 1500-gallons of water, but only pumped at 150-GPM.
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PAGE 10
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
May, 2019
CONNECTICUT
PROVIDED
Crystal Lake members stand by on the 'A/D' corner.
NATE ARNOLD
Hoarding Conditions Hamper Somers Firefighters Somers, CT - An occupied oneand-a-half story, wood-frame, single-family dwelling with a severe Collyer's Mansion condition was the scene of a two-alarm fire that brought mutual aid to Somers from two states on the afternoon of Thursday, April 18th. The Somers Fire Department was toned out for a structure fire at 147 Hampden Road around 2:15 P.M. Once on scene, Somers firefighters had an occupied dwelling with heavy fire in the rear of the structure. A second-alarm was called for almost immediately,
JUMP TO FILE #041819116 bringing mutual aid to the scene from East Longmeadow, Mass., Hampden, Mass., Crystal Lake and Hazardville, along with station coverage from several other jurisdictions. Crews on scene attempted to mount an interior attack but encountered a severe Collyer's Mansion condition on the first-floor, preventing members from advancing hand lines deep into the build-
ing. After regrouping outside of the building and a brief exterior attack with several attack lines, members again attempted to enter the building, this time literally digging their way in, removing piles of clothing and several pieces of furniture to enter the building. The home was heavily damaged and the cause of the fire remains under investigation. The lone occupant of the home was transported for treatment of burns to Johnson Memorial Hospital. - NATE ARNOLD
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 Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
One Extricated After Car Collides with School Bus in Stamford Stamford, CT - At 12:23 P.M. on March 28th, the Belltown and Stamford Fire Departments along with Stamford EMS were dispatched to a serious motor vehicle accident involving a car and school bus on Newfield Avenue. Belltown Engine 42 and Rescue 44 arrived on scene in less than four minutes and confirmed that the school bus was unoccupied, however the driver of the other vehicle was entrapped. Members went to work making contact with the injured occupant and then began to stabilize the vehicle. Stamford Engine 7 and Rescue 1 arrived on scene shortly after and began to assist with the complex ex-
JUMP TO FILE #042419103 trication. Faced with a difficult pin, crews worked simultaneously and were required to remove the vehicle's doors, roof and brake pedal, as well as perform a double dash displacement. During the incident, SEMS provided ALS to the occupant and upon removal, transported the patient to Stamford Hospital in serious condition. In all, the extrication was completed in 29 minutes. No injuries to first responders occurred.
D ID YOU K NOW
- PATRICK GILL
?
Walt Disney World is the largest consumer of fireworks in the United States launching the fireworks with compressed air instead of gunpowder to reduce This 1988 Chevrolet cube van serves as part of the city of New Haven, CT's Fire Investigative Unit.
SEAN FESKO/FDNH911
fumes and gain better height and timing.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
May, 2019
PAGE 11
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PAGE 12
May, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
ANTIQUE APPARATUS If you have photos you would like to see in our Antique Apparatus feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
CHUCK LOWE
The Bantam Fire Co., located in the Town of Litchfield, maintains its 1922 Brockway LaFrance "Torpedo" chemical engine for parades and special events.
COMMAND VEHICLES If you have photos you would like to see in our Command Vehicles feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
This 2015 Chevy Suburban is used as Bridgeport's Battalion 1 chief car.
SEAN FESKO/FDNH911
Visit us online
Fire takes over the third floor as crews withdraw from the building.
JEFFREY HYNDS
Two Floors of Fire for Norwich Crews Norwich, CT - At 9:45 P.M. on Sunday, March 31st, the Norwich Fire Department was dispatched to 22 McKinley Avenue for the report of flames coming from the second-floor. Dispatch updated Battalion 1 while responding that they were taking multiple calls, so he requested the second-alarm to stage in Franklin Square. Battalion 1 arrived at 9:49 P.M., reporting heavy fire from the second and third floors on the 'Alpha' and 'Bravo' sides of a three-story, wood-frame, occupied multiple dwelling. Squad A led with a two-and-ahalf inch hose line and began darkening down the fire. Engine 3
JUMP TO FILE #040419113 established the water supply for the squad and then took a one-andthree-quarter inch hose line through the front door to the second floor. Engine 2 laid a supply line from the corner of Otis Street and fed Truck 1, which the driver set up for exposure protection on the 'Delta' side. Following that, Engine 2 took a line to the third floor and advanced it from the rear. The two other members of Truck 1 forced entry into the third floor and performed the primary search. Taftville Tower 25 positioned
on the 'Bravo' side and assisted with ventilation. Yantic’s Engine 33 helped the city’s Engine Companies advance their hose lines until crews were backed out of the building at 10:26 P.M. Crews knocked a lot of fire with the elevated water ways and then went back inside to overhaul. East Great Plain and Laurel Hill provided relief crews to assist with overhauling, and the Mohegan Tribal Fire Department provided the FAST. Two people were transported by American Ambulance. The Norwich Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating. - RYAN FLAHERTY
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May, 2019
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May, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
Firefighters working the edge of the brush fire.
NORWALK FIRE DEPT.
Roof Fire Damages Condo Building in Norwalk Norwalk, CT - The Norwalk Fire Department responded to a reported chimney fire at the Rowayton Woods Condominiums, off Highland Avenue, at 4:20 P.M. on March 27th. Upon arrival of fire companies, heavy fire had already penetrated through the roof of unit 123 at Rowayton Woods Drive. The fire had originated in the area of the fireplace on the first floor and extended up the threestory framed chimney flue, to the roof. The owner of the unit was home and had a fire going in the fireplace when he noticed smoke pushing from under the fireplace enclosure. He called 911 and met firefighters as they arrived. Firefighters inside worked quickly to open up and extinguish the fire within the wall as firefighters outside put both the Aerial and Ladder Trucks up to control the spreading roof fire. The fire had already entered the framed chimney above the roof and was extending across the roof
JUMP TO FILE #032919119 towards a dormered loft. The roof fire also threatened a neighboring unit and roof embers were smoldering on the two rear wood decks. Fortunately, a cement block fire wall between units inside prevented the fire from extending into the neighboring unit, and aggressive roof work controlled the roof fire. Norwalk’s entire on-duty compliment of 33 firefighters responded to the scene with five Engines, two Trucks, a Rescue and Command Car. Westport and New Canaan Fire and Rowayton Engines covered the city until individual companies could return to service. Fire Inspector Corey Gilchrist and Inspector Jesse Granton were investigating the cause of the blaze.
RYAN FLAHERTY
Brush Fire Extends to Garage in Colchester Colchester, CT - At 3:36 P.M. on Thursday, April 4th, the Colchester Fire Department with the Yantic FAST were dispatched to 164 Shadbush Drive for a brush fire that extended to a garage. The majority of Colchester, with mutual aid from Marlborough, Bozrah, Salem, Gardner Lake, Hebron and East Hampton, were already fighting a multi-acre brush fire on Prospect Hill when this was dispatched. Car 128 arrived at 3:46 P.M.
JUMP TO FILE #040419116 and reported fire showing from the 'Charlie' side of a two-story, single-bay detached garage. He also said the brush fire was extending into the woods, threatening a shed. ET-328 was first-due and stretched a one-and-three-quarter inch hose line to the rear of the garage and held the fire to the exterior. That line and a booster reel
were then stretched into the woods. Salem Tanker 121 arrived next and supplied ET-328. Tanker 128 parked in the neighbor’s driveway and crews advanced a line into the woods on the 'Delta' side of the fire. All of the forestry units ended up clearing Prospect Hill and worked the fire on Shadbush for a couple of hours. - RYAN FLAHERTY
STILL IN SERVICE
If you have photos you would like to see in our “Still in Service” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
- NORWALK FIRE DEPT.
Visit 1st Responder on the Web at
www.1RBN.com
CHUCK LOWE
Litchfield FD Engine 1 is a 1977 Peterbilt/Oren 1500-GPM pumper. It carries 300-gallons of water and 4400-feet of 5-inch supply line. This 42-year-old work horse is the oldest in-service apparatus for this department.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
May, 2019
PAGE 15
CONNECTICUT
Orange Girl Scouts Visit Fire Station to Learn About Firefighters & Safety
Orange, CT – Members of Girl Scout Troop 60247 visited firefighters in Orange recently to get some insight into what firefighters do, and learn about fire safety in their homes. About 30 girls talked with firefighters, crawled under a JUMP TO FILE# low structure, 040219105 climbed ladders and even sprayed water at a target from a fire hose. They also reviewed some fire safety tips, including getting out of the house if a fire alarm or smoke detector sounds. They were taught “get out, stay out”, and to meet at a special, prearranged meeting place. “These demonstrations are so important because they really can save a life,” said Firefighter Lisa Kaplan, who arranged and oversaw the demonstration. “This was a lot of fun for the kids, judging by the smiles on their faces. But we hope they’ll go home and ask their parents about smoke detectors and arrange for the family to have a place to meet if they ever have to evacuate their home.” Kaplan, who is also corresponding secretary of the Orange Volunteer Fire Association, is one of the officers in charge of public fire education. “The best way to fight a fire is to prevent it from happening,” she said. “We have programs for kids of all ages and for adults of all ages.” Kaplan said people interested in learning more about the Orange Volunteer Fire Department’s public education programs can call the fire department at (203) 891-1052 and leave a message. About Orange Volunteer Fire Association: The Orange Volunteer Fire Association provides fire protection residents and businesses in Orange and, through mutual aid, surrounding towns. Members receive training in fire suppression, rescue, hazardous materials response, homeland security issues and other emergency services. Operating strictly with revenues from fund-raisers and donations, the Orange Volunteer Fire Department is one of the remaining few all-volunteer incorporated fire departments in Connecticut. Active members are on-call to serve the community on a 24-hour/seven-day basis, responding from stations on Orange Center Road and Boston Post Road. In addition, the fire company offers public education services including lectures, demonstrations and training. For information about membership, donations or public education, call (203) 891-1052, click o n https://www.orangevfd.com/index.h tm or find us on Facebook. - DOUG FENICHEL
PROVIDED
PROVIDED
PAGE 16
May, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
Woolsey Fire, November 8, 2018 VIDEO REVIEW
Video reviews by John Malecky
Woolsey Fire November 8, 2018 Alan Simmons Productions Available from: FSP Books & Videos 188 Central Street Hudson, MA 01749-1330 1-800-522-8528 E-mail: support@fire-policeems.com www.fire-police-ems.com Price $12.95 (DVD)
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This DVD is 47 minutes in length. It is footage of a fire that was reported at 2:24 P.M. in the Woolsey Canyon near the boundary line of Ventura and Los Angeles Counties in California. Pushed by Santa Ana winds of between 50 to 70 mph, it spread close to 100,000-acres in less than two days, causing three fatalities and destroying 1,643 structures. High winds, very low relative humidity, water problems and a heavy accumulation of drought stricken fuel attributed to this massive fire. It was fought by 3,242 firefighters from strike teams throughout California and the western states. The fire coverage is not narrated except for face-toface communications between firefighters. There are skips to different sections as there are many close ups of the operations. Except for the absence of heat and smoke, you are there! You are there amongst burning structures, autos, power lines and vegetation. A number of restaurants that used to be and are gone for the time being can be viewed. Heavy streams, handlines and chopper drops all lent to the defeat of “red devil.” In the many years that I have been reviewing videos for this newspaper, I have never seen such heartbreaking footage of homes and neighborhoods, many of which were in affluent areas. There are scenes from specific sections, none of which I can relate to since I am not a westerner, but nevertheless show devastating destruction. A segment towards the end of the coverage is entitled “The Day After”, highlighting a large host of scenes and the appearance of wartime bombings in some respects. Day and night coverage is included in this valiant fight, some of which was daylight obscured by heavy smoke, giving the appearance of night!
CONNECTICUT
RYAN FLAHERTY
Ladder 5 performed horizontal ventilation.
Yantic Holds Condo Fire to One Unit Norwich, CT - At 5:16 P.M. on Sunday, March 31st, the Yantic Fire Department was dispatched to 213 West Town Street, at the Bean Hill Condominiums, for smoke coming from the building in Unit 40. Car 30 arrived at 5:18 P.M. and declared the working fire with smoke showing from the third floor. Engine 32 arrived at 5:21 P.M. and stretched a one-andthree-quarter inch hose line to the
JUMP TO FILE #040419100 front door. Crews found fire running between the second and third floors. Engine 33 laid in from a hydrant in the complex, which supplied Engine 32, and then stretched a backup line. Engine 31’s crew stretched a dry line into an exposure and checked for ex-
tension. East Great Plain Ladder 5 flew the aerial to the front and took out three windows on the third floor. Taftville’s Engine 22 and the Mohegan Tribal FAST assisted on scene while Bozrah provided coverage. The fire did not result in any injuries and the Norwich Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating. - RYAN FLAHERTY
Stay on top of the news! Visit 1st Responder on the Web at www.1RBN.com
JOSEPH A. MCELROY
Torrington Crews Battle Three-Alarm Structure Fire Torrington, CT - At approximately 9:22 P.M. on March 29th, the Torrington Fire Department received calls for a building fire at 330 Highland Avenue. On arrival, District 1 had heavy fire showing from two floors of the eight-unit building. A third-alarm was struck and mutual aid companies responded. A total of 30 residents from the apartment complex were evacuated. There were no reported injuries.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
May, 2019
PAGE 17
PAGE 18
May, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
HE HE ER ERO ROES RO OES ES
RHODE ISLAND
Vehicle News
INK INK
1st Responder Newspape er features EMERGENCY SERVICES RELA ATED TATTOOS
CHUCK LOWE
Pawtucket recently purchased a 2014 Rosenbauer Commander 1500-GPM pumper for Engine Co. 1. This truck was previously a demo and had less than 9000-miles when delivered. It has a 750-gallon water tank with a second tank that holds 30-gallons of class A foam.
Pawtucket Engine 4 is a 2018 Pierce Enforcer 1500-GPM pumper with a 750 water tank.
CHUCK LOWE
WHERE ARE THEY NOW? If you have photos you would like to see in our Where Are They Now? feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
"My name is JR Slifer and I run with Richlandtown Fire Company in Pennsylvania. I've been in the fire service for 15 years. I'm currently the Vice President of the company and a Fire Police Officer. I have a half sleeve of St. Florian and a fire scene underneath, representing my service and dedication to the community."
Would you like your emergency services related tattoo featured here? Contact Lindsey at
Lindsey@1strespondernews.com
CHUCK LOWE
South Kingstown, RI traded their "old" Engine 18, a 2008 Spartan/Crimson pumper, when it purchased a new Engine 18 in 2014. Meriden, CT was able to acquire this apparatus, where it continues to work as Engine 5 on the "East Side".
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
May, 2019
PAGE 19
MASSACHUSETTS
Four-Alarm Fire Destroys Cohasset Auto Repair Shop Cohasset, MA - Around 4:30 P.M. on the afternoon of Thursday, April 4th, the Cohasset Fire Department responded to a reported building fire at 147 South Main Street. JUMP TO FILE# Callers to 9-1-1 re- 040619103 ported smoke coming from the building. Companies arrived to find a fire inside an auto repair shop, with an apartment above. A secondalarm was quickly ordered, bringing in mutual aid to work and cover. Crews stretched multiple hand lines attempting to knock down the fire, but it quickly spread throughout the building. A third-alarm was struck and companies turned to a defensive operation. As fire made its way through the roof of the two-anda-half story residential-over-commercial building, ladder pipes and large hand lines were put into operation. Heavy fire vented out of holes cut in the roof by mutual aid companies. Shortly after, the roof came in on the building and sent flames into the air. The fire eventually went to four alarms, bringing in mutual aid companies from around Plymouth County to the scene to work, as well as numerous cover assignments in Cohasset and area communities. No injuries were reported and the fire is not believed to be suspicious. The cause may have been due to sparks from a welder making contact with oily rags. The building was a total loss.
The front of the fire building on South Main St.
PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
- PAT TRAVERS
Serving those who serve us.
HeroesMortgageProgram.com
877-541-HERO
Hingham Lt. Mark Durling makes his way off the ladder as heavy fire consumed the roof.
PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
PAGE 20
May, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
ANTIQUE APPARATUS If you have photos for Antique Apparatus please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
PETER LOBO
Car in Falmouth Crashes Head-On Into Tree
Falmouth, MA - On Sunday, March 31st, Falmouth Fire dispatched Engine 21, Ladder 26 and Ambulance 39 to the intersection of Palmer Avenue and Sippewissett Road for an accident involving a car that crashed into a tree at high speeds. When units arrived, the operator of the vehicle was standing outside of the vehicle. He was transported to Falmouth Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
CHUCK LOWE
The Gardner State Hospital was State Mental Hospital in the town of Gardner. That facility, which had its own fire apparatus, closed in 1975. The 1950's era Ford F600 that was built by Farrar appeared in the Lynnfield Parade a decade ago. At that time it was owned by a private collector in New Hampshire.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
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May, 2019
MASSACHUSETTS
Vehicle News
CHUCK LOWE
The third and final Seagrave Marauder II 1500-GPM Pumper has arrived and gone into service as Engine 23 in West Acton. This 2018 model has the same capacities as the prior two purchases. When this unit went in service the "old" 2017 Seagrave was reassigned to Engine 22. AFD has disposed of both of the HME/Ferrara engines that were previously used as spares. They will retain a 2005 Ferrara Inferno and a 2010 Pierce Arrow in ready reserve. They are numbered E27 & E26.
NATE ARNOLD
Two Alarms Struck at Fully Involved Fire in Longmeadow Longmeadow, MA - A fastmoving fire gutted a single-family home in the affluent town of Longmeadow during the mid-afternoon of April 25th, displacing two residents and blanketing the neighborhood with smoke for several hours. The 911 call came in just before 3:00 P.M. and town Fire Chief John Dearborn was first to arrive on scene. The Chief arrived within two minutes of dispatch and struck a second-alarm before his first apparatus was even on scene.
JUMP TO FILE #042619100 With a second-alarm put in, companies from North Thompsonville Fire and Shaker Pines Fire in Enfield, CT, as well as East Longmeadow, MA responded to the scene while Agawam, MA firefighters provided station coverage. Due to the advanced state of the fire, a defensive attack was ordered from the beginning and members stretched and operated
multiple large and small caliber hand lines, as well as aerial master streams from Longmeadow's Ladder 1 and North Thompsonville's Truck 41. While the building of origin is a total loss, crews kept the fire contained to the single building. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by Longmeadow Fire and Police, as well as the Massachusetts State Fire Marshal's office. - NATE ARNOLD
CHUCK LOWE
Billerica Engine 1 now operates a 2018 Emergency One Typhoon pumper. It replaces a nearly identical E-One that is 3-years-old. That rig will be moved to one of the substations. Both have a 1250 pump with 500-gallons of water. The newer vehicle has a 30-gallon class B foam tank and sports an American Flag grill.
EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES If you have photos you would like to see in our “Emergency Medical Services� feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
CHUCK LOWE
Tewskbury Engine 1 received a 2018 Pierce Enforcer PUC 1500GPM pumper that carries 750-gallons of water. The new engine features a TAC 4 suspension system and Husky 12 class A foam system. It has a 25-gallon foam tank. The body of the truck is completely enclosed with roll-up doors that keep the pump panel and pre-connect "crosslay" lines out of the elements.
SEAN FESKO/FDNH911
Boston Emergency Medical Services utilizes this 2013 Thomas/Sartin Services bus as an MCI unit, designated as Tango 10.
PAGE 22
May, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
Pay Attention to the Details! FORK & HOSE CO. a Food Blog by A.J. Fusco
One thing I learned early on in my firefighter career is that the less there is to clean up, the happier the crew. This especially rings true with the rule that the cooks are exempt from cleanup….I like that rule! “One pan” recipes are popular for this very reason and not just in the firehouse. These recipes are also perfect for home cooks who are looking to save time on cleanup and reduce the chances of having a “tornado incident” in the kitchen, and you know exactly what I mean by that. But just because something is called a “one SEAN FESKO/FDNH911
Fire Strikes Lawrence Home Again Involved in September Gas Explosions Lawrence, MA - On April 19th, Lawrence Fire was dispatched to a reported fire on Brookfield Street. Responding companies had heavy smoke showing while en route and struck the working fire. A second and third alarm were struck shortly after arrival due to heavy fire and exposure issues. The house, vacant, had originally been involved in the September 2018 gas explosions and suffered a collapse of the roof and 'Alpha' side wall. At one point, an ember from
JUMP TO FILE #042019100 the fire set a building across the street ablaze. Companies stretched one line and knocked that fire down quickly. Both fires were brought under control in about one hour, although companies remained on scene well after that to chase down hot spots and conduct overhaul. - SEAN FESKO
LITTLE BIG GUYS
If you have photos you would like to see in our Little Big Guys feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
Blackstone FD operates a 1988 Ford F-350 4x4 as Brush 55. The vehicle was overhauled in 2013 to extend its career. It's rated to pump at 250-GPM with a 250-gallon tank on board.
flavor of the ingredients while they cook. And one thing that many cooks fail to think about is presentation and garnish. Just a simple touch of orange zest not only adds color but a ton of flavor from the essential oils it contains. And the fennel fronds, which usually end up in the trash, can really make a dish pop with color right before serving. Plus, it results in less waste which is always a good thing, especially when you are on a budget. Taking the time to read through recipes and understanding why certain things are being done are key to becoming better cooks. Anyone can throw a bunch of stuff in a pot and call it a day. But a true cook learns about their ingredients, treats them with respect and pays attention to the details. Stay safe, eat well!
ROASTED CHICKEN WITH FENNEL, ORANGE & OLIVES Serves 3
Ingredients:
6 Chicken Thighs, bone-in and skin-on 1 Cara Cara Orange, zested and thin sliced 1 Navel Orange, zested and thin sliced ½ Red Onion, peeled and thin sliced 2 Fennel, thin sliced and fronds reserved 1 Cup Castelvetrano Olives, pitted (substitute with any green olives) 1 Tbs. Chili Flake 2 Tbs. Kosher Salt, plus more to taste Extra Virgin Olive Oil Procedure:
-Preheat oven to 450°. Place a large cast-iron pan or oven-proof skillet in the oven while it preheats and you assemble your ingredients.
-Trim chicken thighs of excess skin and fat. Pat dry and season both sides liberally with salt. Set aside.
CHUCK LOWE
pan” recipe doesn’t mean you should throw just everything into one pan, pop it in the oven and say a prayer in hopes that it turns out ok. This is where attention to detail will really help you become a better cook. Taking the time to build layers of flavor, even in a simple preparation, will make your food taste better. A perfect example of this is my Roasted Chicken with Fennel, Oranges and Olives recipe below. Starting with the chicken skin-side down first on the stovetop helps you in rendering the fat before everything goes in the oven. This allows us to achieve the crispy skin we all love. Tossing the sliced vegetables in oil and salt prior to putting them in the pan ensures all the surfaces are covered and seasoned well. This step not only reduces the chances of burning them, it allows us to bring out the
-Using oven mitt, remove pan/skillet from oven and place on low heat. Add a couple glugs of olive oil and place the chicken skin side down in one layer. Keep an eye on the chicken while you prepare the rest of the ingredients so as not to burn them.
-While the chicken is cooking, thin slice the onion and
set aside. Cut the stalks off the fennel bulb and save the fronds. Thin slice the fennel bulb, discarding the root end and any discolored brown bits. Zest your oranges and set aside with reserved fennel fronds; this will be used as a garnish. Now thinly slice the oranges, removing any seeds. Toss sliced onion, fennel and orange in a bowl with a pinch of salt and drizzle of olive oil. -Remove the browned chicken thighs to a dish. Pour off all but 1 tablespoon of the oil and grease out of the pan. Pour in the fennel, onion, orange mixture along with the chili
flake. Place the chicken on top, skin side up. Arrange some of the orange slices on top. Place the pan in the oven and cook for 45 minutes to an hour, or until the chicken temperature is 165° F. In the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the olives to the pan. AJ FUSCO
-Taste and season if needed. Garnish with orange zest, fennel fronds and a drizzle of olive oil.
*Note: Use any variety of oranges you like. Cara Cara has a subtle sour note which pairs well against the sweetness of other oranges and cooked fennel.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
May, 2019
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May, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
SEAN FESKO/FDNH911
Boston Responds to Two-Alarm Fire in Tower Under Construction
Boston, MA - On April 4th, Boston Fire Alarm struck a box for a reported fire in a building under construction at the corner of Stuart and Tremont Streets. Engine 7 and Ladder 17 had fire showing on the exterior of a 24-story hotel and a secondalarm was struck. Companies stretched four lines and knocked the fire down within 15 minutes; hampering companies were steady winds and downtown rush-hour traffic. The fire affected construction materials only, and the tower's June opening appears to be on schedule.
K. LEGER
87-Year-Old Man Killed in Fall River Blaze Fall River, MA - Firefighters responded to an early morning fatal fire in the south end of Fall River at 11 Palmer Street on April 6th. Firefighters were alerted at 4:31 A.M. to the report of a fire in a two-story, wood-frame cottage. Car 3 responded along with Engines 2, 4 and 5, Ladders 2 and 4, and Heavy Rescue 1. Command arrived on scene and reported what appeared to be a room and contents fire on the second floor of the two-story structure. The chief was greeted by the first floor
JUMP TO FILE #040619107 tenant who reported that the second floor resident was unaccounted for. Command ordered Engine 4 to lay their leader lines to the fire building that was located in the rear yard of (two) three-story buildings. Rescue 1 began an immediate search for the missing elderly man; when he was located, it was determined that he had al-
ready expired. Command called for the Duty Executive officer to respond along with the State Fire Marshal's Office. The chief also called for the Fire Investigation Unit to respond. During the incident, the weakened floor gave way and a firefighter fell to the first floor. He was immediately rescued and transported to Rhode Island Hospital, where he was treated and released. - KENNETH LEGER
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.
PETER LOBO
Car Bursts into Flames in Underground Waltham Garage
Waltham, MA - A report on April 2nd of a car fire at Costcos Wholesale sent Waltham Engines 4 and 7, Rescue 1 and Tower 1 responding. Engine 4 signed off with a car fully involved in the underground garage. When firefighters arrived the sprinkler head was not initially working. The building was evacuated and the fire was knocked down quickly.
On April 7th, Waltham Firefighters (L to R) Keith Tower, Ceasar Castillo and LT. Guy Gautreau from Tower 1 displayed the American flag over the finish line at a fundraiser road race for a Waltham city employee ill with cancer. PETER LOBO
May, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
PAGE 25
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PAGE 26
May, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
COMMAND VEHICLES If you have photos you would like to see in our Command Vehicles feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
Cpl. Paul Skarinka and his wife Jennifer cut the ribbon before entering their new home.
PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
Key Ceremony Held for Wounded Veteran/ Plympton Firefighter Paul Skarinka Hanson, MA - On the morning of Tuesday, April 2nd, a key ceremony was held by the Jared Allen’s Home for Wounded Warriors for US Army Corporal and Plympton Firefighter/Paramedic, Paul Skarinka. The Iraqi-war veteran was severely injured back in 2004 while on his first tour of duty in Sadar City, Iraq. Cpl. Paul Skarinka, his wife Jennifer and their two children, Noah and Julie, were welcomed by former NFL player Jared Allen, members of his foundation, contractors who worked to build the home, firefighters from Plympton, Hanson, Hull and Whitman, members of the community and local media, before they cut a ceremo-
JUMP TO FILE #040219109 nial ribbon and received a tour of their new home. The 2900-square-foot home is specially designed with the needs of wounded warriors in mind. It features wide hallways and door openings to easily accommodate a wheelchair, and low counter tops, among other features. The onestory house was completed with the assistance of Commodore Builders, New England Regional Council of Carpenters, and the Home Depot Foundation. The home wasn’t constructed without some difficulties. This past
September, two juveniles were arrested and charged with vandalism for destroying windows at the property. Some weather-related delays also occurred, in addition to delays due to the Merrimack Valley gas incident, which halted work by Columbia Gas. The home is the first one completed in Massachusetts by Jared Allen’s Homes for Wounded Warriors, who have been a non-profit organization since it was formed back in 2009. Jared Allen is a retired Minnesota Vikings defensive end who formed this organization following a USO tour in the Middle East. - PAT TRAVERS
CHUCK LOWE
The Shift Commander in Gardner operates this 2010 Ford Expedition 4x4 as Car 2.
SEAN FESKO/FDNH911
Lowell, MA operates this 2016 Ford Interceptor SUV as Car 3. It's pictured here at the scene of a four-alarm fire.
SEAN FESKO/FDNH911
A Maltese cross with the family's name was left at the home.
PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
Cambridge, MA operates this 2012 Ford Expedition as the uptown deputy chief, designated Division 2.
MASSACHUSETTS
PAGE 27
May, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
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May, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
The Meaning of Easter Chaplain’s Corner
Pastor Fernando Villicana
A Sunday School teacher once asked her class to write one sentence on “What Easter Means to Me.” One student wrote: Egg salad sandwiches for the next two weeks! Don’t let this Easter be just another busy time of eggs and bunnies while missing the true meaning of it all. After having said that however, I don’t see any harm in enjoying a few of the traditional add-ons to the holiday that may not come under the category of religion. There are BBQ’s, Easter egg hunts with the kids and a time for family to spend time together. My whole family enjoys a traditional dinner together. But have you ever wondered what bunny rabbits and colored eggs have to do with the resurrection of Jesus? The short answer is - nothing. The longer answer is that rabbits and eggs were both symbols of springtime and new life in many ancient cultures. Christians intentionally choose to establish a replacement. Early Christians then adopted the eggs as symbols of new life and birth. The bottom line is that we are annually reminded that 2000 years ago Jesus Christ rose from the grave and changed the world! But, let me ask you - what differ-
ence does Easter make? How does it impact the way you live your life on a daily basis? Even people who believe Jesus rose from the grave on the third day sometimes have difficulty connecting the dots to their daily lives. So whether you are a follower of Christ or are still examining His claims, I want to invite you to travel back with me to that first Easter morning, Resurrection Sunday. A time when Jesus (after his death and burial) appeared to his faithful followers. I invite you to explore the significance of the resurrection and the difference it can make in your life. TEXT: John 20:19-22, 30-31 (NIV) On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord. …But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name. Easter is so much more than candy, colored eggs and cartoon bunnies. Easter is the cornerstone of the Christian faith; the celebration of Jesus rising from the grave, conquering death and giving us 1) peace with God, 2) a purpose for life and the promise of heaven. That’s what Easter is really all about.
NATE ARNOLD
Members stretch an attack line from the back step of Engine 3 as heavy smoke begins to push from the 4th floor and roof of 306 Belmont Ave.
Two-Alarm Fire Keeps Springfield Jakes Busy for Hours Springfield, MA - A fast-moving fire that started on the rear porches of 306 Belmont Avenue before spreading to the rear porches of 300 Belmont Avenue, displaced over 40 residents and required two alarms to knock down on April 2nd. The first 911 call came in shortly before 5:30 P.M. and companies radioed in to dispatch that they had heavy smoke showing from over a mile away. Upon arrival of first-due Engine 3, Ladder 3 and District 2 Chief, David Colon, a second-alarm was called for before the first line was even stretched. During the initial stages of the fire, the radiant heat from 306 Belmont Ave. was so high that it ignited the rear porches on 300
JUMP TO FILE #040719102 Belmont Ave., causing Belmont Command to have to split his resources up to deal with fire in both buildings. After an initial interior attack on 306 Belmont was conducted, conditions inside the building worsened significantly to the point that the evacuation order was given and members were pulled from inside, transitioning to a defensive attack. Ladder pipes from companies 1, 3 and 8 were set up to work on the 'A/B' and 'A/D' corners, as well as 'Charlie' side, while large caliber hand lines were set up from the street on the 'Alpha' side along with
a position on the roof of the 'Bravo' side exposure building. During the height of the fire, with other calls coming in for alarm activations, reports of natural gas odors and a possible chimney fire, an additional engine was requested to the scene on Belmont Ave. to supply Ladder 1's ladder pipe. East Longmeadow Engine 3 responded, laying out over half their bed of LDH from an adjacent side street to feed Springfield Ladder 1 for several hours. The cause of the fire was found to be from the improper disposal of smoking materials. The estimated damage to 306 Belmont alone was over $100,000. - NATE ARNOLD
FF Ward of Ladder 8 climbs the aerial to prepare for master stream ops on the 'C' side of 306 Belmont Ave. NATE ARNOLD
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MASSACHUSETTS
MEMORIES If you have photos you would like to see in our Memories feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
Braintree once operated this 1971 Pirsch open cab 75' mid-mount aerial as Ladder 2.
CHUCK LOWE
PROVIDED
Brewster Fire/Rescue Hosts Man Vs. Machine Training Program Brewster, MA - On Saturday, March 30th, Brewster Fire/Rescue hosted an eight hour classroom and practical-based training program, titled “Man vs. Machine�. The program, which was presented by instructors from PL Vulcan Fire Service Training, provided firefighters with the knowledge, skills and abilities needed to respond to and operate at technical incidents ranging from simple ring removals to complex machinery entrapments, impalements, motor vehicle accidents and agricultural equipment entanglements. During the program the staff of highly experienced, nationally recognized instructors guided the firefighters through several challenging hands-on scenarios designed to test their ability to use both hand and power tools to safely extricate, as-
JUMP TO FILE #040119111 sess, treat and transport victims from these uncommon, yet challenging and complicated incidents. In addition to members of Brewster Fire/Rescue, firefighters from the Chatham, Eastham, Harwich and Orleans Fire Departments also participated in this exceptional training opportunity. Brewster Fire/Rescue would like to thank PL Vulcan and their exceptional group of instructors (Pat Nichols, Randy Miller and Paul Larochelle), for presenting an outstanding training program and sharing a day of fire service brotherhood with the attendees!
This 1973 Maxim-F Pumper once ran as Watertown Engine 1. The pump was only rated at 1000-GPM, but it did carry 500-gallons of water.
CHUCK LOWE
- ROBERT MORAN
Visit 1st Responder on the Web at
www.1RBN.com
Cambridge Engine 7, now disbanded, once operated with this 1966 International hose wagon, built by Lacey Trucks in Medford Mass. These smaller vehicles allowed access down the city's narrow streets and alleys. This model had a 250-GPM pump with 175-gallons of water. It was chased by the Engine as part of a 2 piece company.
CHUCK LOWE
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MASSACHUSETTS
DEPARTMENT PROFILE
If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Departmnt Profile� feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
The Westford Fire Department in Middlesex County moved into their new Fire Headquarters in late 2018. This impressive five-bay facility is located at 65 Boston Road, which is close to Interstate 495. It replaces a 44-year-old firehouse that was only one-third the size of the new one. The project cost the town $12.7 million dollars to complete. The new firehouse is one-of-three stations that covers 32-square-miles. It is staffed by five career suppression personnel along with administrative staff. The 20,0000-square-foot structure has ample living quarters, offices and a 50 seat conference room. Three engines, three ambulances, a tower ladder and support vehicles will be located here.
PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
New HQ - Fletcher Fire Station
Crews work to obtain a second water supply to supply the Hingham ladder. CHUCK LOWE
Engine 1 is a 2014 E-One Quest & front line Engine out of HQ.
CHUCK LOWE
Tower 1 is a 2002 100-ft. Pierce Dash.
One-of-three WFD ambulances housed at the new HQ.
Second-Alarm Fire Destroys Two Homes in Hull Hull, MA - Around 9:00 P.M. on the evening of Wednesday, March 27th, the Hull Fire Department responded to a reported house fire at 1131 Nantasket Avenue. Companies arrived to find a well-involved two-story, woodframe dwelling. The fire was quickly spreading to the 'D' side exposure. A second-alarm was transmitted, bringing in mutual aid from Cohasset, Hingham, Norwell and Scituate to the scene. Companies had a hydrant close to the front of the building but that
JUMP TO FILE #032919102 hydrant was dead, requiring firefighters to find another hydrant further down Nantasket Avenue. The fully-involved house at 1131 Nantasket Avenue was heavily involved in fire and with winds whipping off the nearby water, crews were not able to get ahead of the flames. The fire extended to the 'D' side exposure at 1133 Nantasket Av-
enue and crews worked to prevent it from taking over that dwelling. Firefighters utilized ladder pipes from Hull and Hingham ladders to knock down the fire, in addition to several hand lines that were stretched. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. The occupants of both homes were reported to be out of the houses on the arrival of firefighters. No injuries were reported. - PAT TRAVERS
CHUCK LOWE
CHUCK LOWE
Heavy fire consumed both buildings.
PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
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eLEND joins Heroes Mortgage Program to offer down payment assistance for heroes
For many Americans, funding the down payment necessary to realize a dream of home ownership simply is not possible; and squirreling away the dollars to do so on a limited budget could mean several years of renting and waiting to buy a house. In some cases, first responders and other community service employees have trouble affording homes in the areas where they work. With a purchase as big as buying a home, a little help can go a long way. The Advantage Program, introduced to the Heroes Mortgage platform by eLEND, helps hometown heroes like police officers, volunteer and paid firefighters, EMS workers, medical professionals and educators purchase a home within the community where they work, even in high-cost areas. The unique down payment assistance program was specifically designed for those who make a difference in other people’s lives, as well as first time home buyers. “The Heroes Mortgage platform helps connect members of the emergency services community with lenders that are specifically interested in working with them,” said Joseph P. Belsito, publisher of 1st Responder Newspaper. “The Advantage Program created by eLEND is exactly what makes the Heroes Mortgage Pro-
“We’re excited to introduce our Advantage Program to the Heroes Mortgage platform. It’s our way of trying to help hometown heroes advance their dreams of home ownership.”
- BILL PACKER Executive Vice President eLEND
gram a valuable resource for heroes in our community looking for home financing.” Grant provides help to homebuyers Many buyers wait patiently on the sidelines, saving money and watching interest rates rise. Unlike many other home buying assistance programs, eLEND’s Advantage Program provides a grant for the down pay-
ment. These resources can immediately build a borrower’s buying power, helping them act on a purchase more quickly for either that first home, or a move-up home as the family has grown and needs more space. Qualified buyers can receive grants up to 2% of the purchase price, minimizing the
down payment dollars needed at closing. The grant is “forgivable” so it doesn’t have to be paid back, and there are no resale or borrower repayment restrictions. In the state of Wisconsin, appraisal cost (up to $700) is credited back at closing. This program is not yet available in Hawaii or Washington. To qualify, a borrower need only meet one of the following very flexible requirements: a current, retired, volunteer or professional first responder (police officer, firefighter, paramedic, emergency medical technician, etc.), educator, medical personnel, civil servant or military personnel, or a first-time homebuyer or meet certain income requirements. “We’re excited to introduce our Advantage Program to the Heroes Mortgage platform,” said Bill Packer, executive vice president of eLEND, a division of American Financial Resources, Inc. “It’s our way of trying to help hometown heroes advance their dreams of home ownership.” For more information or to check your eligibility for The Advantage Program, visit www.heroesmortgage.com/AdvantageProgram or call 877-541-HERO.
For more information or to check your eligibility for The Advantage Program, visit www.heroesmortgage.com/AdvantageProgram or call 877-541-HERO.
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MASSACHUSETTS
THEN & NOW
If your Department has photos you would like to see in our “Then & Now� feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
Millbury Rescue 1 (Worcester County) operates out of the Headquarters Station on Elm Street. Their current apparatus is a 2011 Pierce Velocity. It replaced a smaller 1981 Ford C700/Emergency One that is now owned by a local collector.
WSFD Jakes vent the roof.
NATE ARNOLD
Attic Fire Starts Busy Day for West Springfield Jakes West Springfield, MA - An attic fire on the far north side of town started a busy day for West Springfield and Agawam firefighters, sending units from both departments running all over West Springfield nearly non-stop on April 27th. A 911 call at 9:45 A.M. to West Springfield Fire Alarm summoned town firefighters to the address of 49 Bonnie Brae Drive for a report of smoke pushing from the gable end vents of a one-story ranch style home. Upon arrival there was initially nothing evident on three sides of the structure, but once firefighters began to investigate, gaining ac-
JUMP TO FILE #042819102 cess to the attic via an interior hatch way, smoke began to push out from the gable end vents and soffet vents of the home. Crews split up and began working inside the structure, as well as venting the roof to extinguish the fire. With three engines, two firefighter/paramedic staffed ambulances and Ladder 1 on scene, Fire Alarm requested mutual aid from the Agawam Fire Department. Before AFD's Engine 1 could back into quarters, a myriad of medical runs began coming in back-to-
back, sending the Agawam engine company on four calls within 25 minutes of each other. With the fire on Bonnie Brae Drive knocked down and calls continuing to come in, Deputy Chief Mike Culver began reassigning WSFD units to handle the onslaught of calls, which included three more back-to-back EMS calls. The fire on Bonnie Brae Drive displaced two residents and did some $50,000 worth of damage to the home. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the WSFD.
Former MFD Heavy Rescue 1.
Current MFD Heavy Rescue 1.
CHUCK LOWE
CHUCK LOWE
- NATE ARNOLD
LITTLE BIG GUYS If you have photos you would like to see in our Little Big Guys feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
PETER LOBO
Dump Truck Versus Van in Falmouth
Burlington Forestry 1 is a 2014 Ford F-550 BRAT built by Firematic. It has a 23 horsepower pump with a 400-gallon carrying capacity.
CHUCK LOWE
Falmouth, MA - A dump truck coming down the Route 28 offramp at Brick Kiln Road in Falmouth crashed into a van on April 24th. Falmouth Engine 21 and Ambulance 39 responded at the request of the police. The operator of the van sustained minor injuries.
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RICHARD BILLINGS May, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
PETER LOBO
Working Fire with Injuries in Waltham
Waltham, MA - On April 11th, Waltham dispatched Engines 1 and 4, along with Rescue 1 and Ladder 2, to 59 Dartmouth Street for a report of smoke in the building. Engine 4 arrived and found smoke coming from one of the apartments and a man who was burned from a flash fire. Deputy Hebert requested a Working Fire dispatch, which brought Squad 5 and Medic 2 to the scene. The burned occupant was taken to Newton Wellesley Hospital. Waltham Police detectives were investigating the incident.
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May, 2019
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MASSACHUSETTS
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 Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
SEAN FESKO/FDNH911
Ladder 25 in Boston operates this 2016 E-One Cyclone Metro 100' RMA. It's housed with Engine 30 in the West Roxbury neighborhood of the city.
PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
Hanson MA Call-Lieutenant Scott Billings stands by as a wrecker prepares to remove the vehicle.
Car Crashes Into Hydrant, Then Tree in Hanson
CHUCK LOWE
The South Deerfield Fire Department, located in the Town of Deerfield, operates this 2017 KME Panther LFD Heavy Rescue.
Hanson, MA - Around 4:30 P.M. on the afternoon of Sunday, April 28th, the Hanson Fire Department responded to a reported motor vehicle accident in the area of 647 Monponsett Street. Companies arrived to find a single-vehicle accident. The vehicle struck a fire hydrant, then a
JUMP TO FILE #043019109 tree which sat just off the road on Route-58. Command requested an engine to the scene and a manpower recall, due to multiple calls. The victim was transported to
the Beth Israel Hospital in Plymouth with non-life-threatening injuries. No other injuries were reported, and the cause of the accident is under investigation. - PAT TRAVERS
SEAN FESKO/FDNH911
Somerville Fire-Rescue operates this 2013 Pierce Arrow XT 95' tower as Tower 1.
SEAN FESKO/FDNH911
Boston and Needham Operate at Brush Fire Along Charles River
Boston, MA - On April 17th, Boston firefighters responded to Millennium Park in West Roxbury for the report of a brush fire. Companies had fire along the commuter rail tracks, the Charles River, and the Needham city line. Additional units from both cities were requested to the scene, including both of Boston's brush fire units. Due to limited access on the Needham side, companies had to respond along Interstate 95 in rush hour traffic and stage on an access road before walking to the scene. One brush buggy did successfully make it to the river's edge, but got stuck in the mud. The fire was knocked down in about one hour.
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MASSACHUSETTS
Polyethylene Boats PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
Quick Knockdown in Bridgewater Bridgewater, MA - Around 2:15 P.M. on the afternoon of Monday, April 8th, the Bridgewater Fire Department responded to 1160 South Street for a report of smoke in the basement. Companies arrived to find a one-room fire in the basement and quickly stretched a pre-connected hand line to knock the fire down. An additional line was stretched for back up. Companies were able to quickly knock down the fire and contain it to the room of origin. No injuries were reported. Several animals were seen being safely removed from the building by
JUMP TO FILE #040919103 firefighters. At the time of the fire, Bridgewater was fully staffed with 12 firefighters and responded with Engine-1, Engine-3, Tower-1, Ambulance-1, C-2 and Car 3-0. Offduty staffing, which was called in due to the fire, ran a medical emergency and a motor vehicle accident, requiring two ambulances, while companies were tied up at the fire. - PAT TRAVERS
Applied Rescue Technique 118 Alpine Drive • Sandy Hook, CT 06482
Michael D. McCarthy Whaly.appliedrescue@gmail.com • 203-788-2853 MAINE
MEMORIES
If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Memories” feature please upload them on our website www.1RBN.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
MEMORIES If you have photos you would like to see in our Memories feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
CHUCK LOWE
Southbridge Forest Fire 3 was a 1953 Willys Jeep. It was retired when the department acquired a 2015 Bobcat UTV.
CHUCK LOWE
This 1975 Ford C 1000-GPM pumper was operated by Berwick as Engine 1. The apparatus was built by the Howe Fire Apparatus Company in Anderson, Indiana. It carried 500-gallons of water.
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Boston Strikes Two Alarms for Roslindale Structure Fire Boston, MA - On April 17th, Boston Fire Alarm struck a box for a fire off Washington Street in Roslindale. Ladder 16 arrived, reported JUMP TO FILE# heavy fire in the 041819102 rear of a building on Delford Street, and struck a second-alarm. The fire was knocked down within 30 minutes. A turtle was saved by firefighters and reunited with its owner. This was the second fire District 12 companies battled that afternoon; they operated at a brush fire on the Needham city line earlier and had only been in service for 30 minutes before this box came in. - SEAN FESKO
Boston companies overhaul the scene of a two-alarm fire in Roslindale.
SEAN FESKO/FDNH911
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
May, 2019
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May, 2019
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
Participants pose outside of Damien's Pub and make a muscle for MDA.
PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
Mustache March for MDA Fundraiser Hanson, MA - On the afternoon of Saturday, March 30th, Abington Firefighters Local 2080 hosted the annual wrap-up party for Mustache March for MDA. The fundraiser, held at Damien's Pub in Hanson, helps raise awareness and money for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Area firefighters grow mustaches through the month of March to help raise awareness for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. To help with the judging of the mustaches, Abington Fire Captain Jack Glynn recruited Boston25 reporter Jessica Reyes, and Brittany Paine, the mom of a little boy named Chayce who is battling muscular dystrophy. The Muscular Dystrophy Association has been a partner of the International Association of Fire Fighters since 1954. Globally in
JUMP TO FILE #040219108 2018, the IAFF had over 100,000 firefighters and 1,500 locals assist in raising over $20 Million for MDA. Firefighters and police officers from Abington, Hanover, Hanson, Plympton, Whitman and the Plymouth County Sheriff's Department, among others, all participated in raising money and growing mustaches for MDA during the month of March. The money raised will help fund research for the cure of neuromuscular diseases, as well as support programs to help families dealing with those diseases.
D ID Y OU K NOW
- PAT TRAVERS
Fire spreading across the grassy hills of an old landfill.
KEVIN MOSIO
Second-Alarm Brush Fire in Barre Barre, MA - Around 3:00 P.M. on Sunday, April 7th, Barre C2 called in a brush fire at the old landfill located at 99 Barre Depot Road. With dry conditions and a steady wind, the fire started spreading rapidly. Captain Reed jumped into action and started moving heavy equipment out of the path of the fire. As the fire spread it started closing in on a building as well.
JUMP TO FILE #040719104 With brush trucks OOS and needing more manpower, C2 requested a working fire assignment which turned into a first and subsequent second alarm brush fire, bringing in multiple local towns to the scene with brush trucks and
tankers, as well as cover companies to their stations. The fire ended up burning about five-acres of grass. The cover companies also ended up responding to a second brush fire call as Barre apparatus was being put back in service. Luckily, it was a much smaller and contained fire! - KEVIN MOSIO
?
If a fire breaks out, you might not be able to find the exit even if you’ve lived there for years since smoke can be extremely disorienting. Memorize your escape plan beforehand and practice it blindfolded.
KEVIN MOSIO
Crews scattered hitting hot spots while command keeps an eye out from above for any flare ups.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
May, 2019
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MASSACHUSETTS
OLD AND NEW If you have photos you would like to see in our Old and New feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
Groton has placed a 2018 Spartan Gladiator/Smeal 105' Quint into service as Ladder 1. It has a 2000GPM pump and carries 500-gallons of water. There is also a 20-gallon class A foam tank. This apparatus replaces a 2002 HME/Central States/RK 109' quint, which also had a 2000-GPM pump with a 500-gallon water tank.
NATE ARNOLD
Members make the push into the hatchway on the 'Charlie' side at 104 Kings Highway.
One-of-Four Calls Begins with Basement Fire on Busy Saturday in West Springfield West Springfield, MA - A fire that broke out in a heavily cluttered basement on Kings Highway in West Springfield was the first in a string of back-to-back incidents that taxed the resources of the WSFD and neighboring departments on April 13th. The 911 call for a basement fire came in to West Springfield Fire Alarm early in the evening, sending two engine companies, Ladder 1, Chief 2 and Med 2 to the scene at 104 Kings Highway. Chief 2-Deputy Chief Mike Culver arrived first on scene, and initially there was nothing evident from the street. Upon doing a 360 size up of the building however, DC Culver radioed to all companies that fire was burning in the basement on the 'Charlie' side of the building. As two lines were being stretched off Engine 1 and thirddue Engine 3 was being dispatched to the scene, black smoke began to push up from the opened basement access points on the 'Bravo' and 'Charlie' sides. As companies were going to work on Kings Highway and before a mutual aid engine from Agawam could even make it to the station, Fire Alarm received central station notification of an alarm activation on Ashley Avenue, with a follow up 911 call reporting a stove/kitchen fire at that location. Agawam Engine 1 responding
JUMP TO FILE #041519100 in for coverage was redirected to the Ashley Ave. call and DC Culver elected to cut WSFD Engine 3 loose from Kings Highway and send them to Ashley Ave. as well, as they were closer to the scene than Agawam. With companies now operating in two separate locations in town, a third call, a reported stove on fire, came in for Labelle Street on the far north end of town. With the stove fire extinguished on Ashley Ave., Agawam Engine 1 was sent to investigate Labelle Street just as the Chicopee Fire Department made a mutual aid request to West Springfield for a Marine Unit response to the Connecticut River for a fishing boat in distress, which sent WSFD Engine 3 back to the station to retrieve the boat and trailer and head to the river. Meanwhile, back on Kings Highway, a reduced assignment of firefighters managed to keep the fire confined to the basement. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. In all, four emergency calls within 35 minutes of each other made for a very busy Saturday night. - NATE ARNOLD
Groton's new Ladder 1.
Groton's old Ladder 1.
CHUCK LOWE
CHUCK LOWE
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
May, 2019
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