The New England Edition PUBLISHING SINCE 1993
HOME SUBSCRIPTION - $36/YEAR
WWW.1RBN.COM
NOVEMBER, 2017
PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
Whitman, MA - Around 1:20 A.M. on the morning of Thursday, September 14th, the Whitman Fire Department was alerted to a reported building fire at 53 Blake Street. Companies arrived to find heavy fire showing from a two-and-a-half, wood-framed occupied dwelling. All occupants were reported out of the building upon the arrival of the fire department. - See full story on page 19
SEE PAGE 32 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
November, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
November, 2017
PAGE 3
NEW HAMPSHIRE
Fire in Laconia County Jail Deemed Accidental Laconia, NH - On Thursday, October 12th at 11:10 A.M., Laconia, Gilford and Belmont Fire Departments were dispatched to the county jail off JUMP TO FILE# North Main Street 101617112 for a report of smoke coming from the building. Lakes Region Mutual Fire advised that they could see intermittent smoke from their tower camera. Assistant Chief Beattie arrived first on scene and advised that there was smoke showing from the roof of the County Complex. The facility is a very large complex, housing the county administration, corrections facility and nursing home. It is a mix of wood frame, steel frame and ordinary construction. Some sections date back more than 125 years. The area on fire was just recently completed. Chief Beattie requested a first-alarm. Captain Shipp and his crew from Central Station worked their way into the Sally Port and up through a scuttle, through a maze of wires and ductwork, eventually reaching a steel walkway to the area on fire. The crew stretched a three-inch hose with a gated wye and reduced that to a two-inch hose. In essence, they created a standpipe system. The sprinkler system was activated; however, the smoke condition was getting worse. Captain Shipp found active fire in the attic truss roof and the ceiling joists. That fire was quickly knocked down. More fire was found in the first-floor wall space where an exhaust pipe from the emergency generator was located. Crews spent the next hour opening the wall and roof to complete the extinguishment. The sprinkler slowed the spread of the flames, but due to walls and other obstructions, could not extinguish the fire. A second hose was stretched up to the roof to work the fire from that angle. A large supply hose was connected to the sprinkler system to augment the pressure, if needed. Crews from Gilford, Weirs Station and Belmont assisted with overhaul. The County Sheriff Department and Corrections Department moved inmates from the area to an adjacent wing. Laconia Police also assisted at the scene. The fire was deemed accidental. It was caused by the heat from the exhaust pipe for the emergency generator. The contractor for the construction project was conducting a capacity test of the generator, which requires maximum output for an extended time. This resulted in very high temperatures for the exhaust pipe. Damage is estimated at $50,000; however, the property saved is estimated at $4,000,000. - LACONIA FD
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.
Hollis, NH Pump 1, a 1996 International with a 4000', 5" Supply Hose and a 1,750-GPM Pump. JACK STAWASZ
LACONIA FD
PAGE 4
November, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
NEW HAMPSHIRE
Advertising Index
IN SERVICE
A guide to finding great companies
Company
Autotronics
Page
Choice Marketing
13
EJ Boughton Co.
18
Firematic
44
FDIC
Five Star Fire
Greenwood Emergency Kimtek
Mid Atlantic Rescue
Minuteman Fire & Rescue New England Fire Equip.
39
5
2
3
24
Shaker Auto Group
31
Spartan
21
19
27
33
Utility Communications
15
WEH Technologies
White Eagle Motors Zodiac
DAMIEN DANIS
Andover, NH Rescue 1 is this 2016 International/Rosenbauer heavy rescue.
23
Spotted Dog Technologies Task Force Tips
Nashua, NH Engine 4 is this 2016 Pierce Arrow XT pumper. The engine has a 1250-GPM pump and a 500-gallon water tank.
43
Professional Vehicle Corp
Shipmans Fire Equipment
DAMIEN DANIS
41
27
Quick Med Claims
DAMIEN DANIS
14
New England Marine PL Custom
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.
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.
7
11 9
42
CORPORATE INFORMATION
1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New England edition - Vol. 21, No.11 - 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
DAMIEN DANIS
Three-Alarm Fire Destroys Goffstown Butcher Shop
Goffstown, NH - Firefighters battled a three-alarm fire on the morning of October 6th in Goffstown. The fire, at Lemay & Sons Butcher Shop on Daniel Plumber Road, destroyed most of the building and butcher shop while the retail store was untouched. No injuries to any firefighters were reported. Mutual aid from Litchfield, Hooksett, Londonderry and others assisted on scene and with covering.
CALEB PIKE
This recently updated patch belongs to Tuftonboro Fire Rescue Dept., located in Tuftonboro, NH.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
November, 2017
PAGE 5
PAGE 6
November, 2017
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 • Rob Fish • Ryan Flaherty • Jim Fortin Jr. • Karin Halstead • William King • Kenneth Leger • Peter Lobo • Bernie Meehan Jr. • Robert Moran • David Morin • Jake O’Callaghan • Reg Patchell • Greg Ramsdell • Dick Scialabba • John Sjostedt • Ken Snyder • Robert Sprague • Jack Stawasz • Georges Sullivan • Stephen Sweet • Charlie Tentas • Erin Thomas • Pat Travers • Eugene Weber Jr. • Ryan Wiklund • 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
Alabama: Dale Clinton “Clint” Hardemon, 58 Rank: Lieutenant Incident Date: August 13, 2017 Death Date: August 13, 2017 Fire Department: West Blocton Fire Department Initial Summary: Lieutenant Dale Clinton “Clint” Hardemon responded with the West Blocton Fire Department to a structure fire at 0818hrs on the morning of August 13, 2017. While on scene at the structure fire, Lieutenant Hardemon operated the fire pump on the fire apparatus and also maneuvered fire hose around the structure and apparatus. Fire department units returned to service at 1120hrs. Hardemon then drove the apparatus back to the station with no problems noted. Later that afternoon at approximately 1410hrs, Lieutenant Hardemon was at the fire station with Fire Chief Joe McCool looking at one of the fire department boats. Lieutenant Hardemon told the chief that he was feeling lightheaded and then fell to the ground unresponsive. Fire Chief McCool immediately began medical care and called 911. McCool initiated CPR and placed Lieutenant Hardemon on the AED; 2 shocks were administered before the arrival of the ALS unit. Lieutenant Hardemon was taken by ambulance to Bibb Medical Center, and then airlifted to DCH Regional Medical Center where he was pronounced deceased that evening from a heart attack. Arkansas: Randy Ray Treat, 71 Rank: Captain Incident Date: August 26, 2017 Death Date: August 26, 2017 Fire Department: Kingston Rural Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: Captain Randy Ray Treat fell ill while responding to an emergency call, becoming unresponsive, and then passing away from a nature and cause of fatal injury still to be reported.
California: Gary Helming, 47 Rank: Battalion Chief Incident Date: August 31, 2017 Death Date: August 31, 2017 Fire Department: Los Padres National Forest Santa Lucia District Initial Summary: While returning from an assignment on the Railroad Fire in the Sierra National Forest, Battalion Chief Gary Helming was killed when a Ford F-350 traveling in the opposite direction suffered a tire failure, crossed the middle of the road, and struck Chief Helming's vehicle head-on.
California: Terry Smerdel, 59 Rank: Battalion Chief Incident Date: September 10, 2017 Death Date: September 10, 2017 Fire Department: San Francisco Fire Department Initial Summary: Battalion Chief Terry Smerdel returned from an early morning fire alarm call, and was later found by coworkers in his office, unresponsive. Advanced Life Support measures were immediately initiated. He was pronounced deceased surrounded by his Fire Department Family, and later joined at the station by the Department’s Chaplain and the Smerdel family. Pennsylvania: Kenneth Greene, Sr., 60 Rank: Lieutenant Incident Date: September 3, 2017 Death Date: September 14, 2017 Fire Department: Philadelphia Fire Department Initial Summary: Lieutenant Kenneth Greene, Sr., became ill while on-duty and was transported to the hospital from the fire station on September 3, 2017. Lieutenant Green passed away on September 14th, 2017, from a nature and cause of fatal injury still to be reported.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
November, 2017
PAGE 7
PAGE 8
November, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
NEW HAMPSHIRE
LACONIA FD
Laconia House Sustains Major Damage in Fire Laconia, NH - Laconia, Gilford and Meredith Fire Departments were dispatched to Parade Road just after noon on Monday, October 2nd for a report of smoke coming from a building. The original call was for Pedal Pushers. A Stewarts Ambulance on the way to LRGH called Lakes Region Mutual Aid to report the fire. Lt. Vaillancourt requested a first-alarm while responding based on multiple calls taken and smoke visible from North Main Street. Chief Erickson was first on scene and advised that there was fire showing from a one-and-a-half story farmhouse. The building, an old post and beam constructed farmhouse approximately 90-feet long, was at the corner of Pickerel Pond Road. Fire had possession of the firstfloor and was extending upwards and horizontally. Crews attacked
JUMP TO FILE #100517102 the flames with a two-inch hose from Division "A". A second hose was brought to the back of the house as fire was overlapping to the second-floor and attic. The heavy fire was knocked down and crews went inside to stop the flames from spreading through the walls and ceilings. A second-alarm was requested early on as this area has no fire hydrants. Fire trucks shuttled water from a hydrant on Elm Street to Pickerel Pond all afternoon. As more crews arrived, a third line was stretched into the connector to cut off fire in the ceiling. A fourth line was stretched into the second-floor additional to check for extension. Crews were rotated frequently for relief purposes. It was a long
overhaul process, as the original home was built in the early 1800s and had several additions. The fire was under control around 1:20 P.M., and crews remained on scene until 4:00 P.M. Laconia was assisted at the scene by two trucks from Gilford and two trucks from Belmont. Meredith, Tilton, Holderness and Franklin each also sent a truck to the scene. Sanbornton, Stewarts Ambulance and Meredith covered the empty stations. They handled several calls in the city. Laconia Police diverted traffic around the scene for several hours. The home sustained major damage. There were no injuries. The owner was away at the time of the fire. - LACONIA FD
Submitting photos and press releases is EASY! Register at www.1rbn.com to begin posting directly. Prefer emails? Email your press release and photos directly to Lindsey@1strespondernews.com
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
November, 2017
PAGE 9
2017 Malley Crossover Type II Demo FRONT WHEEL DRIVE / GREAT IN THE SNOW!
Please call for appointment to see this amazing unit or see it at the following New England Shows: • North Country EMS Conference October 27, 28 & 29th No Conway, NH • Vermont EMS Conference November 10, 11 & 12th Burlington, VT
Distributors of Quality Malley Emergency Vehicles
PAGE 10
November, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
NEW HAMPSHIRE
Healthy-ish Thanksgiving in the Firehouse
Vehicle News
FORK & HOSE CO. Unlike
most
a Food Blog by A.J. Fusco
DAMIEN DANIS
Hudson Engine 1 has been assigned this 2017 Seagrave pumper, with a 1250-GPM pump and 750-gallon water tank.
private sector jobs or careers, emergency services do not take holidays. The fire doesn’t care that it is July 4th, the heart attack isn’t worried about ruining Thanksgiving dinner and the robber certainly doesn’t mind stealing all of your Christmas presents. We signed up for this knowing full well that while other families and friends are home enjoying time together, we may be on shift or have to respond to an emergency at any given time. This makes it all more important to use these opportunities to “celebrate” with our second family at the firehouse. In my crew, we have taken it a step further and invite our immediate families to the firehouse to enjoy a nice meal to help make the holidays at work a little better.
Of all the holidays, I would say Thanksgiving is our most “popular," and for good reason! Deep fried turkey!!! We all know the dangers of frying a turkey but just in case you forgot, here are some tips: -Make sure the turkey is completely thawed out! -Use the correct amount of oil. One trick is to place the turkey (still in bag) into the pot and fill with water, stopping about ¾ of the way up. Now remove the turkey, and where the water line is, is where you will want to fill the oil up to. Using a dry erase marker on the OUTSIDE of the pot will help you see where to fill it to. -Keep a grease-rated fire extinguisher close by. -Never operate a fryer outdoors in the rain or snow. -Choose a smaller turkey for frying – 8 to 10 pounds is best. We all know the classics of Thanksgiving...Mashed Potatoes, Green Bean Casserole, Stuffing, etc. etc. But why not switch it up a little and make it just a little healthier, but still delicious?! Maybe mash up some sweet pota-
toes instead, or how about roasted green beans instead of a casserole? Since we usually deep fry a turkey, I like to lighten it up a little with the sides, and for me personally, I look forward to these more than the turkey! One of my go-to’s is glazed carrots. There are a million and one ways to make this classic dish but below is a recipe that really takes it to the next level using classic French and Italian techniques. The French technique, called “a l’etuvee,” is when you cook vegetables in a shallow pan, preferably with straight sides, with just enough water to come up halfway with butter and salt and then simmered with a parchment paper lid called a “cartouche”. With this dish, I have simplified it a little by eliminating the cartouche and just adding a little more water to compensate for evaporation. The Italian part used is called an Agro Dolce sauce; agro meaning sour, and dolce meaning sweet. By using maple syrup and cider vinegar in this recipe, you are able to truly capture flavors of this season!
“Maple-Cider Agro Dolce Glazed Carrots” Serves 4-6
Ingredients:
JACK STAWASZ
Hillsboro, NH FD's 2017 Pierce Ascendant was placed into service in Summer 2017, pictured here at the 63rd Annual Manchester Fire Prevention Parade. This truck replaced the older, yet bad to the bone, 1971 American Lafrance which served in Hollis, NH before coming to Hillsboro.
-32oz. Package of Baby Carrots, halved diagonally -3 Tbs. Butter, plus 1 Tbs. to finish dish -Small Bunch of Fresh Parsley, chopped -¼ Cup Pecans, toasted and chopped -Water, enough to just barely cover carrots in pan -Salt, to taste Maple-Cider Agro Dolce:
-1 Fresno Chile, thin sliced (substitute 1 tsp. Chili Flake) -¼ Cup Maple Syrup -¼ Cup Apple Cider Vinegar -Salt, to taste PROCEDURE:
In a deep saute pan, arrange carrots in a single layer with the 3 Tbs. of butter, pinch of salt and just enough water to barely cover the carrots. Bring up to a boil and reduce to a simmer. Cook until the carrots are tender and there is almost no liquid left.
Add the Agro Dolce to the pan, cook until it reduces to a glaze. Pull the pan off the heat and add 1 Tbs. of butter, stirring to make a glaze. Taste and season. Stir in pecans and parsley, serve.
AJ FUSCO
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
November, 2017
PAGE 11
NEW HAMPSHIRE
ALL IN THE FAMILY
If you have photos you would like to see in our “All in the Family� feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
DAVID TOMASO
Three-Alarm Wildfire Burns at Lost River Gorge
DAMIEN DANIS
Retired Nashua Firefighter Robert Fritz with this son Shawn, who is a current Nashua firefighter, during the annual fire prevention parade held in Manchester, NH on October 8th.
Woodstock, NH - A three-alarm fire burned for two days on the Mountainside of Lost River Gorge in Woodstock, starting on Tuesday, October 3rd. At least 10 different towns, including Lincoln, responded as Mutual Aid, as well as two helicopters, US Forestry and National Guard. In addition to crews working on the ground, the two helicopters dropped fire suppression from the air. The fire doubled in size to approximately 50-acres from the first night it started into the second day. At the time this story was submitted the fire was still burning. The cause of the fire has not yet been determined.
PAGE 12
November, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
JIM FORTIN JR.
Captain Rick Tustin addresses the general session.
K. LEGER
23rd Annual Public Fire and Life Safety Conference Held in Southbridge JIM FORTIN JR.
Southbridge, MA - The Massachusetts Public Fire and Life Safety Education Task Force held the 23rd Annual Education Conference on September 26th and 27th, called "Bridging the Gap". Attendees came from all over the United States for two general sessions and the ability to attend up to three workshops per day. Examples of some of the workshops included "How to host a citizen fire academy"
JUMP TO FILE #100417120 by your department, "Using social media" to promote your department and alert your community to hazards in town, and "Using history to teach Fire Prevention". The two-day conference was well attended by over 200 members of the fire service and educators from
the academic world. Numerous vendors crowded the lobby of the conference center with free education material. On the second day of the conference, one of the highlights was the presentation of the "Fire and Life Safety Educator" of the year award. Six finalists were nominated for the award. - KENNETH LEGER
FUTURE FIRST RESPONDERS
If you have photos you would like to see in our “Future 1st Responders� feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
JIM FORTIN JR.
Three-Alarm Fire Damages Acton Apartment Building
Acton, MA - The Acton Fire Department received the box for 5 Iris Court at 1:52 P.M. on October 17th. E22, 26 and Maynard Ladder 1 responded on the initial alarm. Car 1 arrived to find light smoke showing from the eaves of a multiple unit apartment building. Interior crews encountered a heavy smoke condition on the third-floor. A second-alarm was struck which was quickly followed by a third due to the rapidly deteriorating conditions. Crews found fire on the third-floor extending into the walls and ceiling. The bulk of the fire was knocked down in 45 minutes and the incident was placed under control one hour after the first call. Companies remained on the scene into the afternoon for the investigation. Mutual aid at the fire came from Maynard, Concord, Littleton, Boxborough, Westford, Sudbury and Stow while Ayer, Lincoln and Hudson covered the town. No injuries were reported.
MARK GRABOWSKI
These Future First Responders from Western Massachusetts are seen here with Chicopee Fire Prevention Officer Katie Collins Kalbaugh at the "BIG E" fire prevention booth at the West Springfield Fair Grounds!
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
November, 2017
PAGE 13
PAGE 14
November, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
K. LEGER
Fall River Holds Fire Prevention Open House Fall River, MA - The Fall River F.D. held an open house at the Reney/Eastwood Fire Station in the Flint section of the city on Wednesday, October 11th. Firefighters were on hand to provide station and apparatus tours, live fire extinguisher training for adults, and there was also an inflatable fire truck bounce house for kids. "Pluggie" the talking fire hydrant and "Sparky" the fire dog stopped by to visit with the children and were a big hit. A local fire extinguisher company provided portable extinguishers as door prizes, while a hardware store provided smoke detectors as door prizes. Families were treated to free pizza and soda provided by the local Papa Gino's Pizza restaurant.
JOHN SJOSTEDT
MVA Rollover with Entrapment in Duxbury Duxbury, MA - Firefighters responded to Route 3 North between Exit 11-12 for an MVA on September 24th. First arriving companies found a vehicle that had rolled over into the woods with two patients self-extricated with minor injuries. A third patient was trapped in the vehicle with traumatic but non-life-threatening injuries. Two sets of Jaws were used from Duxbury and Marshfield to extricate the patient.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
November, 2017
PAGE 15
Sales & Service of Communications Equipment for over 45 years Factory Trained Technicians • 24 Hr Emergency Service
LIBERTY SL8 48” LIGHTBAR
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 16
November, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
Another Hurricane? Chaplain's Corner
Pastor Fernando Villicana
Satellite images showed us the scale of flooding and devastation in Florida, Texas and Puerto Rico this month. With rainfall topping 50-inches in some areas, Harvey blasted a huge part of Texas stretching from the Houston area into Louisiana. One resident yelled out “our whole city is underwater.” We watched the news as rescue operations took place and the human toll affected all of us. But in the midst of the devastation there were many positive stories, too. The strength of the human spirit, rescue efforts from all over the country, brotherly love, compassion and finances
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
that poured in to aid those in need. Hurricanes have names - Harvey, Irma… The Bible describes another kind of storm that can enter our lives with little warning. Hurricanes that we have names for. What have you named your hurricane? Divorce, death in the family, sickness, financial ruin, depression over a life that has not gone the way you planned or hoped? Yes, hurricanes have names and can become very personal and devastating. Yet, as damaging and frightful as these storms can be, there is some good news. They pass. In the Bible, the Disciples found themselves faced with a lifethreatening storm out at sea. They called on Jesus who was asleep in the bottom of the boat. Have you ever called on God and had the feeling that He was asleep? Jesus is awakened by the panic and fear of the Disciples who thought this was the end for them. Jesus gets up and speaks to the storms and says: “peace be still” and the storm passed. To those of us who cry out to God in a time of crisis, He promises a “peace that surpasses all understanding.” He is still speaking to storms. When your life seems to be under water, when everything seems to be going south, a rescue operation is under way. God is still able to minister to our fears and needs with “peace be still.” For those who have gone through a storm and are still suffering the consequences and residual affects of it, God is here for that too. He knows that even though your personal storm has passed, there is a rebuilding process needed. Let us all look to God as the source of restoration and peace even in the midst of a storm. Psalm 107:28-31 Yet when they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, the Lord brought them out of their distress. He calmed the storm and its waves quieted down. So they rejoiced that the waves became quiet, and he led them to their desired haven. Let them give thanks to the Lord for his gracious love and for his awesome deeds on behalf of mankind.
Read more from our columnists on our website! 1rbn.com
MASSACHUSETTS
Heavy fire through the roof of the condo complex under construction.
PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
Four-Alarm Inferno Destroys Nearly Complete Condo Complex in Weymouth Weymouth, MA - Shortly before 3:00 A.M. on the morning of Thursday, September 14th, the Weymouth Fire Department responded to a reported building fire at 71 Trotter Road, located in the Union Point devel- JUMP TO FILE# 092517144 opment. Crews arrived to find heavy fire tearing through a large, 200' x 50', four-story condominium complex that was under construction. Companies experienced water problems and requested incoming companies to lay in. Crews had to stretch feeder lines over the MBTA commuter rail tracks in order to get a good water supply to battle the blaze in the condominium complex that was slated to open in about a month's time. A second-alarm was struck on arrival, followed soon thereafter by third and fourth alarms. Companies utilized deck guns and ladder pipes to protect the exposures and knock down the heavy fire conditions, which tore through the roof. Mutual aid companies from Quincy, Braintree, Rockland, Avon, Hull, Hingham, Holbrook and Stoughton all worked on the scene to knock down the fire. Companies continued to pour water on the complex throughout the day. Paths were dug under the commuter rail lines so that feeder lines wouldn't interfere with the MBTA's operation. This fire is one of several which destroyed buildings that were under construction in Mas-
PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
Command staff observe the fire from Trotter Road.
sachusetts this year. Earlier in the year, fires in Boston and Waltham destroyed residential building projects that were not yet completed.
The cause of the blaze is under investigation and no injuries were reported. - PAT TRAVERS
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
November, 2017
PAGE 17
MASSACHUSETTS
Working Garage Fire Quickly Knocked in Hanson Hanson, MA - Around 4:25 A.M. on the morning of Sunday, September 24th, the Hanson Fire Department responded to a reported building fire in the area of 16 Liberty Street. Companies arrived to find a fully involved one-story garage that was on JUMP TO FILE# the property of a 092517145 vacant two-story residential building. Companies utilized hand lines and a deck gun to quickly hit the fire, which was impinging on the vacant two-story structure. A working fire was requested, bringing mutual aid engines from Pembroke and Whitman to the scene, and a Halifax engine for station coverage. The fire slightly extended to the vacant building, but firefighters were able to quickly knock the flames down. Interior crews checked for extension. The fire was quickly knocked down and no injuries were reported. - PAT TRAVERS
The fire destroyed the garage, next to a vacant residential building.
The fire slightly extended to the vacant structure.
PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
PAGE 18
November, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
West Springfield Jakes Battle Traffic and Flames at Multiple Alarm Job West Springfield, MA - At 9:30 P.M. on Friday, September 22nd, during an annual event held in West Springfield known as the "Eastern States Exposition," a structure fire broke out on a side street across from the fairgrounds as nearly 100,000 fairgoers were exiting JUMP TO FILE# the grounds for the 092917121 night. Responding West Springfield firefighters had to contend with side streets and main arteries clogged with civilian motor vehicle traffic as they snaked their way down to the scene. Once on scene, firefighters found the fire had extended from the original fire building to the exposure building located at 88-90 Bosworth Street, which coincidentally burned in a two-alarm fire three years prior. With heavy fire venting from the attics of two neighboring buildings, a third-alarm was struck, bringing in an additional engine company from the neighboring City of Agawam to the scene, along with a ladder company from Springfield and an engine from Westfield to back-fill WSFD Headquarters. In spite of the advanced state of the fire on arrival, as well as traffic congestion hindering response, WSFD and AFD firefighters were able to bring the fire under control within an hour of the first 9-1-1 calls received. Both fire buildings sustained significant damage and the fire displaced some 23 residents. The
Deputy Chief Mike Culver (center left) and Chief of Department Bill Flaherty (center right) confer on the "A" side of the fire ground.
NATE ARNOLD
cause of the fire was traced back to careless disposal of smoking materials. - NATE ARNOLD
RICHARD BILLINGS
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
PAGE 19
November, 2017
MASSACHUSETTS
Three-Alarm Fire Tears Through Whitman Home Whitman, MA - Around 1:20 A.M. on the morning of Thursday, September 14th, the Whitman Fire Department was alerted to a reported building fire at 53 Blake Street. The box was struck and Engine243, Ladder-246, JUMP TO FILE# Car-3 and an auto- 092517142 matic mutual aid engine from Abington responded. Companies arrived to find heavy fire showing from a two-and-ahalf, wood-framed occupied dwelling. All occupants were reported out of the building upon the arrival of the fire department. A Blitz gun was immediately stretched and put into operation to knock down the heavy fire on the "A" and "D" sides of the house. A working fire was requested by Deputy Chief Joseph Feeney, followed soon thereafter by a second-alarm. Crews stretched multiple hand lines, knocking the heavy fire on the outside of the structure before making entry with hand lines to work the inside of the house. Crews were able to knock down the majority of the fire within approximately 45-minutes. They continued to chase hot spots and knock down hidden pockets of fire for several hours. A thirdalarm was struck for relief purposes, bringing crews in from across Plymouth County to assist both on-scene and for station coverage. Mutual aid was provided from Abington, Bridgewater, Brockton, East Bridgewater, Hanson, Hanover, Rockland and West Bridgewater. Units responded to the scene, as well as station coverage. The Massachusetts Department of Fire Services rehab unit, as well as the Whitman CERT Rehab unit responded to the scene to assist firefighters who worked the stubborn blaze. The cause of the fire is under investigation and no injuries were reported. - PAT TRAVERS
PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
Whitman Firefighter Andy McGillvray operates a hand line.
Fire runs up the roof line in the front of the building.
PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
PAGE 20
November, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
PETER LOBO
Working Fire Erupts in Waltham Building
Waltham, MA - On October 15th, firefighters responded to a report of smoke in the building at Oriental Foot Reflexology, located at 875 Main Street. Waltham sent Engines 2 and 4, along with Rescue 1 and Ladder 1 to the scene. Upon arrival, Deputy Chief Randy Mullen ordered a working fire, bringing in Engine 1 and Ambulance 1. Firefighters found fire in the rear doorway which got into the ceiling. Ladder 2 was requested to assist in ventilation. It took about 45 minutes to contain the fire. Adjacent establishments sustained smoke damage.
DICK SCIALABBA
Pregnant Woman Injured in Hinsdale MVA
Hinsdale, MA - At 3:00 P.M. on August 30th, the Hinsdale VFD was alerted to an MVA with injuries at the intersection Maple St. (Rt. 143) and River Rd. (Rt. 8). Rescue 4 and Ambulance 5 responded with seven firefighters and EMTs. Upon arrival, crews encountered a pickup truck and a car that had hit in a T-bone type accident and ended up sandwiched parallel to each other. All three occupants had self-extricated with the help of bystanders. The female driver of the car, who was eight months pregnant, was found lying on the ground complaining of multiple minor injuries. Due to the advanced state of her pregnancy and the impact of the crash, she was transported to Berkshire Medical Center as a trauma alert. The pickup truck driver and the second occupant of the car, both males, declined medical treatment or transport. Rescue 4 cleared the scene at 3:30 P.M.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
November, 2017
PAGE 21
PAGE 22
November, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MAINE
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.
ERIN THOMAS
Structure collapses during a 4-alarm fatal blaze on Hanscom Rd. in Eliot, Maine on October 9th.
Four-Alarm Fatal House Fire in Eliot
This is the new patch of Randolph Fire in Maine.
CHIEF RON CUNNINGHAM
NEVER FORGET If you have photos you would like to see in our “Never Forget” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
TRENTON VOL. FD
Trenton Volunteer F.D., located in Hancock County, has a 9/11 memorial mural displayed on the side of their Heavy Rescue.
Eliot, ME - An elderly resident died in a structure fire that broke out around 11:00 P.M. on Tuesday, October 9th. Her son was injured while trying to rescue her from the blaze. Eliot Fire Department was toned for the fire at 30 Hanscom Road at 11:19 P.M. A second and then third alarm were quickly called as firefighters attempted to make entry into the building to rescue 83-year-old Beverly Webber. Webber was in her secondfloor apartment at the time of the incident, just above the garage
JUMP TO FILE #101117108 where the fire started. Webber's son, 57-year-old Ralph Webber III was injured when he was forced to jump out of the window as he attempted to rescue his mother as the flames took hold. Firefighters made several attempts to gain entry to rescue the woman until Eliot Fire Chief Jay Muzeroll made the call to back crews out of the building as a portion of the building began to collapse.
The fire quickly went to a fourth-alarm and the home is a total loss. Webber's body was located in her bedroom early Wednesday morning, October 10th. The State Fire Marshal's office will be investigating. Several Fire Companies from Maine assisted at the scene including Kittery, South Berwick, Berwick, Kittery Point, York and York Beach. The New Hampshire Departments that assisted on scene were Rollinsford, Greenland and Pease International Tradeport.
Eliot F.D. and Kittery Ladder 2 on scene of a fatal fire in Eliot on October 9th.
- ERIN THOMAS
ERIN THOMAS
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
November, 2017
PAGE 23
PAGE 24
November, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
Heavy fire quickly took over the pool house and threatened the family's house. RYAN FLAHERTY
Danbury Exchange Club President James Russell (left) with FFOY Michael Vitolo.
BERNIE MEEHAN, JR.
Michael Vitolo Named Danbury FFOY
Lisbon Tanker 154 with Jewett City Engine 256 in the driveway.
RYAN FLAHERTY
Pool House Burns, Endangers House in Lisbon Lisbon, CT - At 10:33 A.M. on Monday, October 2nd, the Lisbon Fire Department with mutual aid from Jewett City and the Yantic FAST were dispatched to 109 Bushnell Road for a structure fire. Lisbon Engine JUMP TO FILE # 254 arrived to find a 100517114 large pool house fully involved, with a large two-story single-family residence as an exposure. The vinyl siding was melting and smoking from the back of the house, so the crew initially stretched a twoand-a-half inch hose line and placed it in between the home and burning structure. Lisbon Tanker 154 arrived next and tied into their engine. Jewett City Engine 256 arrived and stretched a line forward to the front of the structure. Baltic Tanker 124 assisted with water supply while crews fought the fire from the exterior. Three lines were placed into operation. The fire marshal is investigating. - RYAN FLAHERTY
Danbury, CT - On October 5th, the Danbury Exchange Club held its annual Firefighter of the Year program at Anthony's Lake Club in Danbury. Michael Vitolo was selected as this year's honoree. The event is sponsored by the Danbury Housing Authority, and the Exchange Club asks both the Fire and Police Departments for nominations for the honor of being named Firefighter and Police Officer of the Year. Fire Marshal James Russell, who is also the Danbury Exchange Club President, was the Master of Ceremonies. Michael Vitolo has been a Danbury Firefighter since 2007. Prior to that he was a volunteer in the Hawthorne, NY Volunteer Fire Department for seven years while attending Pace Univer-
JUMP TO FILE #100617100 sity and earning a degree in Accounting. Michael does a phenomenal job and strives to stay out of the spotlight. He has incredible knowledge, skills and compassion, as well as a temperament to keep very calm during emergencies, something he learned from his grandfather who spent 34 years in the FDNY. Around the department, Michael is one of the first to pitch in to accomplish tasks. He is also involved in renovating firehouses and even volunteering to work with autistic children, teaching them safety skills at a school in the
Bronx. Recently, Michael was the lead in a rescue where a man had fallen off a roof and was impaled through his chest by a four-foot long, threeinch wide piece of steel. Michael's calm demeanor and professional skills were instrumental in the successful rescue and recovery of the man. He was also one of the key players in a woodland search and rescue earlier this year. Michael is an avid hiker with his dogs, and his extensive knowledge of the woods and trail system was an important factor in the search. Michael is married and lives with his wife Kerri, and their two dogs.
Professional Vehicle Corporation
- BERNIE MEEHAN
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 to Wood’s Ambulance Gardner, Massachusetts
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
November, 2017
PAGE 25
CONNECTICUT
Vacant House Heavily Involved in Norwich
MICHAEL CARENZA JR.
New Britain Makes Quick Stop on Deck Fire New Britain, CT - Firefighters made a quick stop on a deck fire at 55 Brittany Farms Road on September 21st around 6:50 A.M. The fire is believed to have been started by discarded smoking material.
Norwich, CT - At 8:34 A.M. on Wednesday, October 4th, the Laurel Hill Fire Department was dispatched to a smoke investigation in the area of the former Norwich State Hospital. At 8:56 A.M., UMP TO FILE# one of their fire po- J100517115 lice arrived in his personal vehicle and found fire through the roof of a twostory, wood-frame abandoned house. Laurel Hill was then re-toned for a structure fire and the Norwich and Poquetanuck Fire Departments were added. Engine 62 arrived shortly after and stretched a line to the front of the house. Engine 3 arrived next and laid 700-feet of fiveinch supply line down from the entrance on Route 12 and tied into Engine 62. Squad A laid 1,000-feet of fiveinch from a hydrant on Laurel Hill Road and connected into the line that Engine 3 laid. Truck 1 parked on Route 12 and their manpower walked forward to assist with the defensive operations. Crews established a collapse zone and put two lines in operation. The bulk of the fire was knocked in a half hour. Crews remained on scene wetting it down as an excavator tore down the building. No injuries were sustained and the fire marshal is investigating.
DRILLS/TRAINING
- RYAN FLAHERTY
CAITLIN HURD
To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
KARIN M. HALSTEAD
Area Fire Chiefs Celebrate 85 Years of Service for Southbury Southbury, CT - Saturday, October 14th was a night of celebrating Southbury Vol. Fireman's Association for their 85 years of service. Area Fire Chiefs got together to pose for a photo. (L to R): Roxbury Chief Mike Josefson, Southbury Chief Dan Tomasack, Sandy Hook Chief Bill Halstead, Woodbury Chief Janet Morgan, Oxford Chief Scott Pelletier, Past Monroe Chief Bill Davin and Middlebury Chief Tony Bruno.
RYAN FLAHERTY
Norwich, CT - Every Saturday during the Spring, Summer and Fall, the Norwich Fire Department checks and operates their three boats. Members check all of the equipment, run the fire pump and also exercise each boat's motor by taking them down the Thames River. Pictured is FF Paul Tardif operating Marine 1 with Lt. Kannas in the background.
PAGE 26
November, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
JEN BURDY
Truck Plummets Over Rock Wall in Norwich
Norwich, CT - Around 4:15 A.M. on Friday, October 6th, the Norwich Fire Department was dispatched to the Howard T. Brown Park on Chelsea Harbor Drive for a rollover. Squad A and Engine 3 arrived to find a pickup truck that had left the roadway and landed on its roof in the parking lot. The driver miraculously self-extricated prior to firefighters' arrival. Crews worked with American Ambulance on patient care while the remainder of personnel set up airbags to lift the vehicle and ensure that there were no other occupants. A fuel leak was contained to the area, and thankfully no one else was in the vehicle.
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.
MIKE DZIAVIT
FF Joe Crowley put the caps back on the hydrant while FF's Griffin and Mathieu repack the supply line.
Norwich Handles Small House Fire Norwich, CT - At 9:57 A.M. on Sunday, September 10th, the Norwich Fire Department was dispatched to 51 Division Street for a person that believed their basement was on fire. Engine 2 arrived first and reported a light smoke condition from a two-and-a-half story woodframe. During the Lieutenant's 360 size up, he found active fire under the
JUMP TO FILE #091917103 porch just starting to get into the exterior wall. He relayed to his step man to stretch the one-and-threequarter inch crosslay to the "Delta" side where they contained the fire. Squad A made the hydrant and hand jacked five-inch from Engine 2
to the water supply. Engine 3 found a good smoke condition in the basement but no active fire. Truck 1 overhauled the area of origin while the Battalion had command. The Mohegan Tribal FAST was cancelled while enroute and the Norwich Fire Marshal's Office is investigating. - RYAN FLAHERTY
RYAN FLAHERTY
Fundraiser Dinner Held for CT Fallen Firefighters Memorial
EUGENE WEBER JR.
This patch belongs to Burrville Fire Department, located in Litchfield County, CT.
Southington, CT - The Connecticut State Firefighters Association Memorial Foundation held its Second Annual Memorial Fundraiser Dinner on Monday, October 2nd at the Aqua Turf Club in Southington. A fantastic dinner was served by the men and women at the Aqua Turf. After the Chaplain said a few words, the microphone was turned over to guest speaker Chief John Alston, Jr., from the New Haven Fire Department. Chief Alston spoke about how the fire service has drastically changed during his career and how we need to continue making it safer. Funds raised will support maintenance and replacement of degrading panels on the Fallen Firefighters Memorial at the Connecticut Fire Academy in addition to completing the site work around the 9/11 steel artifact.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
November, 2017
PAGE 27
CONNECTICUT
Vehicle News
ICE RESCUE SUITS Mustang and Stearns
Ice Commander Suits Size: Universal Adult IC9001-03 $675.00 IC9002-02 $935.00
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 RYAN FLAHERTY
Salem, CT - On Saturday, October 7th, the Gardner Lake F.D. in Salem put their new Tanker 127 into service. The 2017 KME Eliminator replaced a 1989 Mack Ranger that still had a standard transmission. The new tanker has a 3,500-gallon water tank with a 1,500-GPM pump and an assortment of firefighting equipment.
Call Shannon for More Information! 800-492-0779 or 603-436-2836
New England Marine & Industrial www.newenglandmarine.com
NORWALK FD
Vehicle Rolls Down Embankment in Norwalk Norwalk, CT - The Norwalk Fire Department responded to a one-car motor vehicle rollover on the Merritt Parkway, between exits 40 and 41 northbound, on October 10th at 4:00 P.M. A female driver in her 50’s, who was still in the vehicle, was transported to Norwalk Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The Volvo station wagon landed upright down a slight embankment at the edge of the woods after rolling several times. Normal rush hour traffic moved slowly passed the scene and was not affected by the accident. State Police are investigating.
PAGE 28
November, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
Dozens Gather at Connecticut Fallen Firefighters Memorial Windsor Locks, CT - On September 24th, Connecticut fire service members, dignitaries and families gathered at the Connecticut Fallen Firefighters Memorial to honor Connecticut's fallen firefighters. The Connecticut Fire Academy is home JUMP TO FILE# of the Connecticut 092417111 Fallen Firefighters Memorial. Even though no new names were added to the sacred walls of the memorial this year, uniformed personnel and the public still joined together to remember and honor the fallen heroes of years past. Lieutenant Governor Nancy Wyman and Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection Commissioner Dora Schriro attended, as did many fire service leaders from throughout the state. Connecticut's fire service members vow to never forget their fallen brothers and sisters. - CORAL RUGGIERO
Participating members of the Connecticut Statewide Honor Guard.
The Connecticut Fallen Firefighter Memorial, located at the Connecticut Fire Academy.
CORAL RUGGIERO
CORAL RUGGIERO
Ringing of the bell.
CORAL RUGGIERO
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
November, 2017
PAGE 29
PAGE 30
FACES OF NEW ENGLAND’S EMERGENCY SERVICES November, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
To see your “Faces”in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
Newark, VT Vol. FD recently welcomed two new members. Probationary FF Zachary Willson and Junior FF Harper Ouellette were accepted as members at their August meeting. Also pictured is FF/EMT Lila Leonard, who was certified as their newest EMT in July. (L to R): Harper Ouellette, Zach Willson and Lila Leonard. NEWARK, VT VOL. FD
DAMIEN DANIS
Manchester, NH Captain Charlie Pierson directing the annual fire prevention parade on October 3rd in Manchester.
During the 134th State of Connecticut Firefighter's Convention held in September, Vernon, CT Firefighters from Towers 141 and 541 received the Citation of Bravery Award for rescuing trapped residents from a house explosion. VERNON FD
Abington, MA Firefighters Justin Silva and Chris Cotti take a break at a recent house fire in Whitman, MA. PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
Norwell, MA Fire Chief Andy Reardon at a recent house fire in Whitman, MA.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
November, 2017
PAGE 31
PAGE 32
November, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
November, 2017
MEET ROVER
Meet His App “ROVER MOBILE”
Phone: (203) 445 6536 • www.spotteddogtech.com Built by firefighters, for firefighters
PAGE 33
PAGE 34
November, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
Gas Emergency Leads to Workout for Norwich Firefighters Norwich, CT - At 6:35 A.M. on Friday, October 6th, the Norwich Fire Department was dispatched to "Get Bent," a yoga studio located at 207 North Main Street, for an odor of gasoline inside of the building. Engine 2 arrived first and made JUMP TO FILE# sure that everyone 100817100 evacuated the building while metering and looking for the source. Engine 2 made their way to the automotive garage in the lower level while Squad A investigated the first-floor. Engine 2's crew found a vehicle with a rusted gas tank that was leaking, and mitigated the problem. Crews set up positive pressure fans and turned on the inhouse ventilation system to purge the smell. Following that, Captain Dziavit and Firefighter Dennis Blanchard took the time to get a picture with the women doing yoga. - RYAN FLAHERTY
Squad A's Captain Dziavit and FF Blanchard pose during the TRX workout after the call was finished.
LOCAL 892
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
November, 2017
PAGE 35
CONNECTICUT
Taftville Fire Department Celebrates 100th Anniversary by Hosting Convention Norwich, CT - The Taftville F.D. in Norwich celebrated their 100th anniversary by hosting the 134th State of Connecticut Firefighters Convention on September 15th, 16th and 17th. After months of planning and preparation, the event started when the JUMP TO FILE# Steven Siller Tunnel 091917106 to Towers Foundation 9/11 "Never Forget" Trailer entered the village of Taftville. All six of the Norwich Fire Departments as well as the Norwich Police, State Police and multiple motorcycle clubs helped escort the trailer into town. Lisbon's Tower 154 held the American Flag over the village as the procession came down Providence Street. The doors of Kelly Middle School opened at 8:00 A.M. on Saturday with 23 vendors in the gym. The convention meeting started at 10:30 A.M. with multiple speakers and awards given out. Special congratulations to Firefighter Jim Trzaski for being honored as the Connecticut State Firefighters Association 2017 Firefighter of the Year. Five members of the Vernon F.D. were also recognized with the Citation of Bravery for their role in rescuing trapped residents from a house explosion. After the meeting, Yantic Fire Engine Co. hosted a luncheon and tea party. The Stephen Siller 9/11 Memorial Trailer was open to the public on Saturday and Sunday in the Wequonnoc School parking lot. On Sunday morning, Sacred Heart School hosted a pancake breakfast from 7-10 A.M. A parade stepped off at noon on Incinerator Rd. in Lisbon and made its way into Taftville. The parade consisted of 11 divisions made up of firefighters, dancers, musicians and some politicians. Departments were able to show off their antiques and history as well as their new apparatus. A couple thousand citizens lined the streets and cheered for the firefighters as they marched and drove by. After the parade there was a beer garden with food and an awards ceremony behind Taftville's station. The lead singer from "Branded," named Tim Cote, was also on hand playing his guitar and singing all afternoon for the crowd. The Norwich Fire Departments mass decontamination trailer was set up in the school parking lot to assist with communications. There are several of these trailers located throughout the state. On board this trailer is an interoperable radio system that was tested before and during the parade. Special thanks to Convention Committee Chairman Greg Schlough for organizing such a terrific event! - RYAN FLAHERTY
Lisbon Tower 154 holding the American Flag over Taftville.
FF Jim Trzaski pictured with his family after receiving the "Firefighter of the Year" award.
RYAN FLAHERTY
CAL BRENNAN
PAGE 36
November, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
www.absolutefire.com
phone: 800-400-8017
FIRE & SAFETY SERVICES
web: www.f-ss.com
S
New Jersey Fire Equipment Co. (Phone) 732-968-2121
www.njfe.com
www.norcomct.com
Sales & Service of Communications Equipment for over 45 years
www.utilitycommunications.com
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
November, 2017
PAGE 37
www.1strespondernews.com
www.rescueleaders.com
RESPIRATORY FIT TESTING
CONTACT US: 631-586-1745
SpartanMotors.com/s-180 516-349-7700 • Fax: 516-349-0482 • 60 Engineers Lane Farmingdale, NY
www.specialtyambulance.com •
/specialtyambulance
www.sutphen.com FIRE • POLICE • EMS • SECURITY
PAGE 38
November, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
VERMONT
PATCH OF THE MONTH
If you have photos you would like to see in our “Patch of the Month” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
Firefighters just arriving on the scene.
GREG RAMSDELL
Eight Fire Departments Respond to Barn Fire in Highgate Highgate, VT - A fire destroyed a hay barn late Saturday evening, October 7th, completely destroying the structure and all of the contents inside. The fire was reported at around 6:55 P.M. on Route 7 in Highgate. The barn had several hundred hay bales stored inside as well as some equipment. Mutual aid that assisted the Highgate Fire Department were Al-
JUMP TO FILE #100817106 burgh, Swanton, St. Albans Town, Georgia, Sheldon and Franklin Fire Departments. St. Armand QC, the American Red Cross and AmCare also responded. Ambulance service stood-by at the scene and Missisquoi Valley Rescue was called in later to
stand-by. The Rouses Point, NY Fire Department covered Alburgh's station and Isle Lamotte covered Swanton's station during the incident. Firefighters were on the scene into the early morning hours. The fire is under investigation and the barn was a total loss. No animals were lost in the fire.
EUGENE WEBER JR.
This patch belongs to Burlington Fire Department, located in Chittenden County, VT.
APPARATUS FOR SALE
- GREG RAMSDELL
F.D.N.Y. We Gotta Job VIDEO REVIEW
Video reviews by John Malecky
F.D.N.Y. We Gotta Job By Fireline Video Productions Available from: FSP Books & Videos 188 Central Street, #4 Hudson, MA 01749-1330 1-800-522-8528 e-mail: support@fire-policeems.com www.fire-police-ems.com Price: $29.95 (DVD) This DVD is 85 minutes in length and is produced by the same company that gave us the last video reviewed in September, 10-75 Da
Box. This video has coverage from the year 2000 and the fires are just as intense as the previous one. One difference is that additional brief information is on the front of the disk about the incidents. The narrator in the background gives a size up, but at least you know what the actual scene is about from the disk. There are six incidents. The first is a third-alarm in Flatbush, Brooklyn and involves a row of one-story taxpayers comprising eight stores. The cockloft, as expected, is the means of fire travel. Two tower ladders and five monitors operate in this outside fight. The next is in Brooklyn and is a second-alarm response with foam units for an overturned tanker which took the life of the driver. It is at McGuiness Blvd. and two tower ladders are involved in the
operation. The next is in Queens for a second-alarm in a 2 ½ story frame private dwelling. The next is also Queens, in the Glendale section, for a second-alarm at a 200'x500', twostory factory. Two tower ladders and handlines operate. Brooklyn is next for a thirdalarm at a four-story occupied dwelling with exposures affected. This is the Bushwick section. Five lines were stretched to battle this. Lastly, in downtown Brooklyn is an explosion and collapse of (two) three-story occupied dwellings. It is at State and Bond in the 31 Battalion’s territory. Numerous special units are called to the scene as well as a police ESU presence. These five events make for another group of heavy involvement for the FDNY.
The Board of Fire Commissioners of the Uniondale Fire District will accept sealed Bids until 2:00 pm, June 19, 2017, for the sale of one (1) Red 2005 International Ambulance. Add’l detailed info can be obtained. At 3pm, June 19, 2017, bid(s) will be opened and publicly read aloud. Vehicle is to be sold “as is”. The minimum accepted bid for the vehicle is $35,000 w/ firematic pkg. Sealed bid(s) may be delivered in person to District Office M-F 9:00a-5:00p at 501 Uniondale Ave., 2nd Floor, Uniondale, NY 11553. Sealed bid(s) must be marked “Bid for 2005 International Ambulance”. Sealed bid(s) must be accompanied with a check in the amount of ten percent (10%) of the bid price submitted or the bid will not be accepted. Contact District Secretary at (516) 481-8411 8:30a-5:00p M-F. The final sale payment is to be by certified or bank check. The Uniondale Fire District reserves the right to reject any and all bids.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
November, 2017
PAGE 39
PAGE 40
November, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
VERMONT
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.
DANVILLE VOL. FD
Multiple Departments Work to Extinguish Large Barn/House Fire Barnet, VT - The Danville F.D. was dispatched to a second-alarm barn fire at 1709 Groton Rd. in Barnet on September 18th at approximately 9:26 P.M. Danville responded with two onboard the tanker and a crew of four on Engine 3. The tanker responded to the scene and supported water supply operations in the form of a tanker shuttle, utilizing a water supply on Hall Road in Ryegate, and a small pond just north of the fire scene. Engine 3 was initially en route to the Peacham Station for coverage but was quickly diverted to the scene for manpower. Upon arrival, Engine
JUMP TO FILE #092117121 3 was unable to directly access the fire scene due to congestion on the road. Danville's fire chief and three firefighters from Engine 3 walked to the fire scene and immediately provided support on exterior operations. A crew of two from Engine 3 then supported interior operations. Engine 1 responded with two from N. Danville to the Danville Village Station to cover. Engine 1 was eventually requested to the scene and supported exterior and interior
operations on arrival. Three additional Danville firefighters joined Engine 1 at the scene for manpower. At approximately 11:45 P.M., Danville Engine 3 and Engine 1 cleared the scene and returned to Peacham Station for coverage. Engine 1 remained at Peacham Station and at around 12:00 A.M., Engine 3 returned to Danville for coverage. All Danville units were clear and in quarters just after 2:00 A.M. Other departments remained at the fire scene throughout the morning. Walden FD covered Danville's station during the incident. - DANVILLE VOL. FD
Enjoy taking photographs? Get the most out of your hobby! 1st Responder News compensates correspondents for their article & photograph submissions.
Contact Lindsey TODAY for more information! Lindsey@1strespondernews.com
845-534-7500 ext. 212
SOUTH BURLINGTON FD
South Burlington, VT - South Burlington Fire Rescue recently welcomed their first-ever Department Chaplain, Tony Previti. Welcome aboard Sir!
APPARATUS FOR SALE
The Board of Fire Commissioners of the Uniondale Fire District will accept sealed Bids until 2:00 pm, June 19, 2017, for the sale of one (1) Red 2005 International Ambulance. Add’l detailed info can be obtained. At 3pm, June 19, 2017, bid(s) will be opened and publicly read aloud. Vehicle is to be sold “as is”. The minimum accepted bid for the vehicle is $35,000 w/ firematic pkg. Sealed bid(s) may be delivered in person to District Office M-F 9:00a-5:00p at 501 Uniondale Ave., 2nd Floor, Uniondale, NY 11553. Sealed bid(s) must be marked “Bid for 2005 International Ambulance”. Sealed bid(s) must be accompanied with a check in the amount of ten percent (10%) of the bid price submitted or the bid will not be accepted. Contact District Secretary at (516) 481-8411 8:30a-5:00p M-F. The final sale payment is to be by certified or bank check. The Uniondale Fire District reserves the right to reject any and all bids.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
November, 2017
PAGE 41
PAGE 42
November, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
RHODE ISLAND
NEVER FORGET If you have photos you would like to see in our “Never Forget” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
WATCH HILL FD
Westerly, RI - On the 16th anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks, Watch Hill FD invited everyone to visit the 9/11 memorial at their station to reflect and remember the service of those firefighters who lost their lives on that fateful day.
APPARATUS FOR SALE
2009 Ford ALS Ambulance 33205.7 miles • 2989.9 Engine hours Accepting offers until Wed. Nov. 1, 2017 Minimum offer: $25000 Please forward all offers to: Laura Hinde, District Secretary Hicksville Fire District 20 East Marie Street • Hicksville, NY 11801 516-933-6445 x112
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
November, 2017
PAGE 43
PAGE 44
November, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE