The New England Edition PUBLISHING SINCE 1993
HOME SUBSCRIPTION - $36/YEAR
WWW.1RBN.COM
OCTOBER, 2021
9/11 20TH ANNIVERSARY - WE REMEMBER
PROVIDED
Join our Team of Dispatchers Paging with a Rewards Program! Visit our website to fill out an application.
www.1rwn.com
PAGE 2
October, 2021
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
CORAL RUGGIERO
Car Fire on Rt. 20 in Windsor Locks WINDSOR LOCKS, CT - Shortly after 11:30 A.M. on Sunday, August 15th, the Windsor Locks Fire Department responded to Rt. 20 westbound for a reported vehicle fire. The vehicle was located actively on fire just prior to the Rt. 75 exit. No injuries were reported.
RYAN FLAHERTY
A crew repositioning the ladder so they can open up the gable end.
Duplex Burns, Cat Dies in Occum NORWICH, CT - At 7:28 P.M. on Monday, July 26th, the Occum Fire Department was dispatched to 1 Taftville Occum Road for a house fire. The Taftville Fire Department was added to the assignment at 7:29 P.M., and their first engine was quick out the door since they had just gotten back from a medical. Engine 21 arrived at 7:34 P.M. with fire venting from the first floor 'Delta' side of a twostory wood-frame duplex. Crews stretched a one-and-
JUMP TO FILE #081221111
three-quarter inch hose line through the front door into the right apartment and knocked down the bulk of the fire. Occum Engine 42 arrived next and established the water supply from a hydrant across the street which fed Engine 21. Tower 25 set up in the front and performed vertical ventilation while crews from Occum, Taftville and Yantic chased the fire
through the walls and into the attic. The Baltic and Lisbon Fire Departments stood by with their tankers, which did not end up getting utilized. One firefighter was transported for heat exhaustion and one cat perished in the blaze. The Mohegan Tribal Fire Department provided the FAST. The Norwich Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating. - RYAN FLAHERTY
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.
RYAN FLAHERTY
Tractor-Trailer Rolls Over on Route 2 in Norwich NORWICH, CT - At 4:03 P.M. on Tuesday, August 3rd, the Yantic and East Great Plain Fire Departments were dispatched to the area of the clover leaf for a tractor-trailer rollover. Car 3 arrived at 4:05 P.M., reporting that a dump style tractor-trailer carrying metal had flipped onto its driver's side. The operator had self-extricated, but a good amount of the metal had spilled onto the highway. Engine 33 treated the driver while Rescue 3 contained the fluid spill. American Ambulance transported one male to Backus Hospital and crews remained on scene for a while with Department of Transportation. CHUCK LOWE
Bristol runs this 2019 Pierce Arrow XT 95' platform as Tower 1.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
October, 2021
PAGE 3
PAGE 4
October, 2021
CONNECTICUT
Advertising Index
STILL IN SERVICE
A guide to finding great companies
Company
Page
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
35
Allegiance Fire & Rescue
3
Armor Tuff Flooring
23
Backstop USA
9
Dingee Machine
Firehouse Expo
27
Fire Tech & Safety
15
CHUCK LOWE
DAVID BOWEN
Mansfield ET-407 is assigned this well maintained 1994 Pierce Dash 1250/1000/30F.
Fatal Tractor-Trailer Vs. Car Crash in Meriden MERIDEN, CT - On August 4th at about 5:30 P.M., first responders responded to a tractor-trailer versus car accident on 691 Eastbound in Meriden. Two occupants in the car were killed, and the driver of the tractor-trailer was injured.
5
Kimtek Corp.
29
LI Mega Show
Mid Atlantic Rescue
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
PATCH OF THE MONTH
7,13 CHUCK LOWE
New England Marine
25
Shaker Auto Group
31
Shipman’s Fire Equipment
9
Sutphen
9
Two Brothers Auto
Hampton Rescue Engine 112 still runs this 1985 GMC Topkick/Greenwood 1000/500.
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
12,21
Utility Communications
11
CHUCK LOWE
Poquetanuck Fire Department, located in Preston, runs this 1990 E-One Cyclone 1500/750 as Engine 13.
Waterous
36
CORPORATE INFORMATION 1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New England edition - Vol. 25, No. 10 - 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 error. in Omissions A division of: or errors be must brought to the attention of the newspaper during the same month of publication. Printed in Canada.
845-534-7500• (fax) 845-534-0055 Info@belsito.com
CHUCK LOWE CHUCK LOWE
Community Fire Co. in Thompson operates a 1991 Sutphen 90' platform as Tower 181. This apparatus was acquired in 2012. Prior to that it was owned and operated by Mt. Kisco New York (Westchester County).
The Electric Boat Fire Department is an industrial fire brigade serving the General Dynamics - Electric Boat main facility in Groton City, Connecticut. Electric Boat is the source of the majority of the U.S. Navy's underwater capabilities, and handles most of the building at this facility, located on the Thames River.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
October, 2021
PAGE 5
PAGE 6
October, 2021
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) ••• MANAGING EDITOR
Lindsey Palmer (Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com) ••• PRODUCTION DIRECTOR
Ashley Ramos (Ashley@1stResponderNews.com) ••• CIRCULATION MANAGER
Michelle Rosa (Michelle@1stResponder.com) ••• BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Joe Belsito (Joe@1stRespondernews.com)
••• DISPATCHER RECRUITMENT & RETENTION (Rich@1stResponder.com)
EDITORIAL STAFF COLUMNISTS ••• Rick Billings (Cartoon) AJ Fusco (Food Blog) Bob Long (Cartoon) John Malecky (Apparatus, Video, Bookshelf) Didymus McHugh (Chaplain’s Corner) Fernando Villicana (Chaplain’s Corner)
CORRESPONDENTS ••• Robert Allen • Nate Arnold • Jeffrey Belschwinder • David Bowen • David Bryce • Michael Carenza Jr. • Paul Dolnier • Doug Fenichel • Sean Fesko • Ryan Flaherty • Jim Fortin Jr. • Mark Grabowski • Karin Halstead • Jay Heath • Patrick Kerrigan • William King • Lee Krohn • Roger Lambert • Kenneth Leger • Peter Lobo • Chuck Lowe • Bernie Meehan Jr. • Robert Moran • Kevin Mosio • Brian Owen • Greg Ramsdell • Frank Robinson • Coral Ruggiero • Jason Rushford • Dick Scialabba • Anthony Simanskas • John Sjostedt • Ken Snyder • Robert Sprague • Jack Stawasz • Charlie Tentas • Pat Travers • Robert Vezina • Eugene Weber Jr.
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
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
In memory of those who gave all 1st Responder Newspaper honors and remembers emergency responders lost in the line of duty Colorado: Chester Riley, 57 Rank: Chief Incident Date: March 20, 2021 Death Date: March 20, 2021 Fire Department: Nucla Naturita Fire Protection District Initial Summary: On Saturday, March 20, 2021, Chief Chester Riley responded to the scene of an automobile accident. While at the incident, he experienced a heart attack and passed away. West Virginia: Charles Wesley Miller, Jr., 62 Rank: Captain Incident Date: April 4, 2021 Death Date: April 4, 2021 Fire Department: Albright Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: On Sunday, April 4, 2021, Captain Charles Wesley “Chuck” Miller, Jr. was responding to a brush fire in his personal automobile. He was killed when his vehicle went off the road and into a ditch on North Preston Highway. The investigation into the incident is ongoing. Delaware: Laura Madara, 56 Rank: Fire Police Officer Incident Date: April 9, 2021 Death Date: April 9, 2021 Fire Department: Selbyville Volunteer Fire Company Initial Summary: On Friday, April 9, 2021, Fire Police Officer Laura Madara was working at the scene of a vehicle accident and standing behind a Selbyville fire police truck. The driver of the truck, while backing up, accidentally struck her. She was immediately rushed to the hospital where she passed away a short time later from her injuries. Investigation into the incident is ongoing. Fire Police Officer Laura Madara was also the Ladies Auxiliary President. Ohio: Selinde Roosenburg, 20 Rank: Wildland Firefighter Incident Date: March 23, 2021 Death Date: March 25, 2021 Fire Department: Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Forestry Initial Summary: On Tuesday, March 23, 2021,
Wildland Firefighter Selinde Roosenburg was participating in a controlled burn at Richland Furnace State Forest in Washington Township. During the fire, she was involved in a UTV rollover accident. She passed away from the injuries she sustained in the incident on Thursday, March 25, 2021. Georgia: Efren Medina, 20 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: April 17, 2021 Death Date: April 17, 2021 Fire Department: St. Marys Fire Department Initial Summary: On Saturday morning, April 17, 2021, Firefighter Efren Medina, while working his first 24-hour shift as a firefighter, passed away in his sleep at the firehouse. Investigation into the incident is ongoing. Arizona: Robert Costello, 62 Rank: Chief Incident Date: April 7, 2021 Death Date: April 8, 2021 Fire Department: Buckeye Fire-Medical Rescue Department Initial Summary: Fire Chief Robert Costello, while onduty, attended fire department and city council meetings with individuals with known cases of COVID-19. He subsequently contracted the virus and passed away from a heart attack stemming from the disease on Thursday, April 8, 2021. Wyoming: Charles “Chuck” Edward Scottini, 67 Rank: Assistant Fire Chief Incident Date: October 24, 2020 Death Date: April 24, 2021 Fire Department: Laramie County Fire District #2 Initial Summary: In October of 2020, while on a wildland fire assignment in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, Assistant Fire Chief Charles “Chuck” Edward Scottini contracted COVID-19. He was flown to the University of Utah Hospital for treatment and remained there until last Wednesday evening, April 21, 2021, when he returned to Wyoming and was in hospice care. Assistant Fire Chief Scottini passed away from the virus early Saturday morning, April 24, 2021, with his family by his side.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
October, 2021
PAGE 7
Shop online at www.MidAtlanticRescue.com
PAGE 8
October, 2021
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
RYAN FLAHERTY
NORWICH FIRE
Members celebrate Bill's accomplishments before he transfers to the fire marshal's office.
New Fire Marshal for Norwich
JUMP TO FILE #081221109
NORWICH, CT - At 7:00 P.M. on Wednesday, July 28th, Norwich’s Local 892 held an outing at These Guys Brewing Company to celebrate Firefighter William Wrobel, who transferred to the fire marshal’s office on 8/1/21. Bill started as a Mashantucket Pequot Firefighter before being hired by Norwich in 2003. Firefighter Wrobel has been recognized multiple times throughout his career for removing victims from burning buildings. He completed 18 years as
a firefighter in the Rose City and will be attending fire marshal school in September. We are going to miss your laughs and having you on shift, but look forward to still working with you in your new role! - RYAN FLAHERTY
Crews knocked the fire just as it was starting to get into the attic.
Bedroom Fire Damages Preston Home PRESTON, CT - At 10:15 A.M. on Friday, July 30th, the Preston Fire Department was dispatched to 7 Tanglewood Drive for clothes burning in a bedroom. At 10:18 A.M., Station R updated Chief Casey that they took a second call reporting black smoke from the windows, so he filled out the working fire assignment with Norwich Engine 2, Mashantucket Engine 2 and the Mohegan Tribal FAST. P-1 arrived at 10:19 A.M. with
JUMP TO FILE #081221107
fire showing from one window in the rear of the second floor of a raised ranch. Poquetanuck Engine 11 stretched a one-and-three-quarter inch cross lay through the front door and up the stairs where they found a bedroom well involved with fire and coming down the hallway. Preston Tanker 22 nursed the
first due engine. Norwich Engine 2 operated the second line in the rear for a brief period before relieving Engine 11’s crew for overhaul and ventilation. Mashantucket threw ladders and opened the gable vent while Mohegan Tribal firemen set up a fan. There were no injuries reported. The Preston Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating. - RYAN FLAHERTY
ACTION SHOTS If you have photos you would like to see in our Action Shots feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
RYAN FLAHERTY
Captain Curtin shared some stories and presented Bill with a plaque on behalf of Local 892. TIMOTHY BORDEN/@TBORDENPHOTOS
A Torrington Fire Department firefighter on the ladder at a three-alarm apartment fire in New Hartford, CT on August 10th.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
October, 2021
PAGE 9
PAGE 10
October, 2021
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
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 Andover Volunteer Fire Department was formed in 1938. At that time the town purchased “Sacketts Store" and converted it to house a new Maxim pumper that carried 150-gallons of water. This engine was purchased for $4,766 and another $2,000 was allocated to purchase the store and convert it. 83 years later the department operates from a modern 4-bay firehouse with six pieces of apparatus and an ambulance. The department has 30 active members and remains completely volunteer.
CHUCK LOWE
Andover Fire Department
CHUCK LOWE
Rescue 115 - 2004 Ford F-550 Light Rescue CHUCK LOWE
Engine Tank 115 - 2005 E-One Cyclone 1500/1000/40F
CHUCK LOWE
Rescue 215 - 1998 Freightliner FL80/Becker
CHUCK LOWE
Engine Tank 215 - 1991 E-One Cyclone TC 1500/1000
CHUCK LOWE
Service 115 - 1989 Ford F350/E-One 300/250/25F
CHUCK LOWE
Tanker 215 - 2020 Freightliner 114SD/US Tanker 1250/3000
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
October, 2021
PAGE 11
CONNECTICUT
NEVER FORGET "REQUIEM TO THE LOST FIREFIGHTERS OF NEW YORK" By Ed Lee, Ex-Chief Matawan Borough Fire Dept. September 11th 2001, a beautiful morning full of bright sun. By 9 a.m. the world turned dark, evil arrived and hit its mark. The towers were a symbol they could not accept, the hatred and contempt in secret was kept. Without hesitation they answered the call, no second thought not even a stall. The 343 rose from the ranks, not looking for glory or even a thanks. The job was there, task was at hand, the fires were fueled like a wind-driven fan. Up and above they went to where the people were, no questions asked, just a simple yes sir. The towers fell and all was lost, 2,958 souls were the cost. They gave their lives to the job they loved, now 20 years later they pull their watch from above.
RYAN FLAHERTY
Six People Transported from T-Bone Accident in Franklin NORWICH, CT - At 10:22 P.M. on Friday, July 30th, the Franklin Fire Department with mutual aid from Bozrah, Yantic Rescue 3, Baltic Ambulance and American Ambulance, were dispatched to Route 87 at Stockhouse Road for a two-car T-bone MVA with an unresponsive driver. Occum’s Deputy Chief was on his way home and arrived at 10:29 P.M. reporting multiple people injured. A car had pulled out in front of an SUV, sustaining heavy damage with intrusion into the driver’s side of the passenger compartment. Six people ended up being transported to Backus Hospital in Norwich, one of which was in serious condition.
Providing Communications Products & Services For Over 50 Years
Providing Communications Products & Services for over 50 years Two-Way Radios • Pagers Camera • Video • Access Control Whelen Lighting & Outdoor Warning Products Microwave • Scanners • Dispatch Chairs • P25 Models Custom Engraving • Reconditioned Equipment Rentals • Consulting & Coverage Studies Complete Motorola Product Line
Factory Trained Technicians • 24 Hour Emergency Service MOTOROLA, MOTO, MOTOROLA SOLUTIONS and the Stylized M Logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Motorola Trademark Holdings, LLC and are used under license. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. © 2011 Motorola Solutions, Inc. All rights reserved.
920 Sherman Avenue, Hamden Connecticut 06514
(203) 287-1306 • (800) 443-1306
www.utilitycommunications.com
PAGE 12
October, 2021
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
VEHICLE NEWS
CHUCK LOWE
KARIN M. HALSTEAD
Firefighters removing the top of the cab.
Callers Report a Pickup Truck Down Embankment in Sandy Hook SANDY HOOK, CT - Just after 3:00 P.M. on Thursday, August 5th, Sandy Hook Fire & Rescue and Newtown Hook & Ladder firefighters were dispatched to a vehicle accident on I-84 west, before the exit 11 off ramp. Callers stated that they saw a vehicle go into the woods and down the embankment, but could not see it any longer. The paramedic was first to arrive on scene and confirmed that a vehicle was approximately 40-feet down the embankment and the driver was trapped inside. While en route, Sandy Hook Chief Bill Halstead requested Southbury Fire Dept. to the scene as well. Chief Halstead and Engine 441 arrived on scene and assumed command.
Windham Center is operating a 2020 Spartan Gladiator/4-Guys as Engine 103. It replaced a 1998 Spartan that was built by Smeal. This new rig has a 1500-GPM pump and carries 1000-gallons of water with a 20-gallon foam cell.
JUMP TO FILE #081121101
Rescue 444 and crew arrived and went to work stabilizing the vehicle. The Rescue-Q-Jacks were used along with a winch to secure the pickup truck. The cab of the truck was crushed against a tree. The extrication took 14 minutes to complete. Newtown Hook & Ladder members cleared a path with a chainsaw and set up a 3-1 rope system so the patient could be moved to the awaiting ambulance. The patient remained conscious the entire time. A good job was done by all.
CHUCK LOWE
Scotland purchased a Toyne 3000-gallon tanker built on a 2020 International MV607 chassis. The new Engine Tank 116 has a 1500-GPM Hale QMax pump.
- KARIN HALSTEAD
Visit us online for more news around the states! www.1rbn.com
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
October, 2021
PAGE 13
WE REMEMBER
1-877-622-MARS sales@midatlanticrescue.com
PAGE 14
October, 2021
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
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
Rochester currently operates with a 1996 E-One Hush 1500/200/95' Tower. This apparatus was acquired in 2015 from Woodbridge Township, NJ. It previously operated as Truck 5 of the Avenel Fire Department. Prior to this Tower going in to service the Town ran a 1974 Seagrave 100' Aerial. That rig was originally FDNY Ladder 49, serving the Highbridge section of the Bronx. It later did time on the cape as Yarmouth Ladder 41.
K. LEGER
Car Fire in Fall River Damages Nearby Homes FALL RIVER, MA - On Wednesday, August 18th around 8:00 A.M., Fall River Engine 4 responded to a motor vehicle accident with possible fire at 255 Whipple Street. Engine 4 arrived on scene to a fully involved SUV with extension to the exposures and called for a full still alarm response. The driver had fled the scene after striking several parked vehicles, leaving the blazing vehicle in the middle of the road. The fire damaged the siding on two nearby homes.
OLD & NEW
CHUCK LOWE
If you have photos you would like to see in our “Old & New” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
Former Rochester Ladder 1
Quint 1 in Hingham operates a 2019 Pierce Velocity 2000/500/100' Tower Ladder. This apparatus replaced a 1999 Seagrave 1250/300/75’ Aerial.
CHUCK LOWE
Current HFD Quint 1
CHUCK LOWE
Current Rochester Tower 1 CHUCK LOWE
Former HFD Quint 1
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
TRENTON FIREFIGHTING ON THE BOOK SHELF by John Malecky
Trenton Firefighting By Michael Ratcliffe Forwarded by Chief Dennis Keenan (ret) Available from: FSP books & Videos 433 Main Street, #2A Hudson, MA 01749 1-800-522-8528 E-mail: support@fire-policeems.com: www.fire-police-ems.com Price: $21.99 This is a soft cover book from the Images of America series and measures 6 ½ inches by 9 inches. It has 127 pages and five chapters between the Forward, Acknowledgements and Introduction, and the Roll of Honor in the back. The Roll of Honor lists 34 Trenton firefighters known to have lost their lives in the line of duty. The author’s name is familiar to me and I believe I met him in person many years ago when I was photographing apparatus near Trenton. My recollection of the conversation was quite pleasant, as was my conversation with Trenton Fire Chief Dan George whom I called one day to ask permission to photograph their apparatus. He was so pleasant and accommodating that it was almost as if we were schoolmates! There are several photos of him in this book. He was the longest serving
Read more articles on our website! www.1rbn.com
chief. Well back to the book! The author did an excellent job of writing about the TFD, which became paid in 1892. He had help from many others which he acknowledges. Most of the images in the book were scanned from the originals. The five chapters are divided in years, namely 1747-1892, 1892-1920, 1921-1950, 1951-1990 and 1991-2020. Much of what is written is accompanied by a photo. All photos are black and white. I should mention that for the fact that this is a history of firefighting, there is no gallery of fire apparatus. There are photos of apparatus mostly from the earlier days, so there are horses and spoked wheels. The first motorized vehicle was actually a 1907 chief car with a 10 horsepower steam propelled motor. The reader will see
October, 2021
PAGE 15
MASSACHUSETTS
much more apparatus in the wealth of fire pictures which dominate the book. One is of a ship built fuel tender, which I remember photographing. Their shop built five vehicles, two pumpers, two floodlight trucks and the fuel tender, which are lined up in one photo. There are a number of photos of personnel, both individual and in groups. One is of their first African American firefighter who also had been a marine veteran in World War II and did a search and rescue of a two-year-old girl. There is also mention of the first African American captain, the first Hispanic firefighter and the first female firefighter. If you like history you will find this book an extremely interesting read!
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
CHUCK LOWE
Lynn Engine 1, a 1975 American LaFrance Century, pumping at a fire behind the public works building. This apparatus had a 1000GPM pump with a 500-gallon water tank.
PAGE 16
October, 2021
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
Car Fire Extends and Damages Home in Billerica BILLERICA, MA - On August 9th, Billerica firefighters arrived to find a car fire extending inside of a house on Hemlock Lane. Crews made a quick attack and had the fire knocked down in a JUMP TO FILE# short amount of 081021103 time. Firefighters remained on scene checking for extension before clearing. - PATRICK KERRIGAN
Get your personal copy of
The NE Edition Name:______________________
PATRICK KERRIGAN
Telephone:___________________ Address:____________________ City: ______________________ State:_____ Zip: _____________ __ $48 for one year subscription __ $84 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
PATRICK KERRIGAN
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
October, 2021
PAGE 17
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 Town of Leicester is located just west of Worcester and shares a border with that city. It was originally settled by the Nipmuc people and was known by them as "Towtaid". Nine proprietors engaged in land speculation purchased the eight-square-mile town in 1686 for just 15 pounds. It was not until 27 years later that the state allowed the town to be incorporated. The terms set forth by the Commonwealth, at the time, included a provision that 50 families would live here. The most recent census data shows that Leicester has now grown to around 4,000 households. Fire & EMS services to the town are provided by a combination department operating out of three locations. The headquarters building at 3 Paxton St. opened in 2017. This station houses most of the department’s apparatus, administrative offices and living quarters. The two outlying houses, located in Cherry Valley & Rochdale, each have a structural engine and a brush truck. In total there are four engines, three brush trucks, two rescues, a tower ladder and three ambulances in the fleet. CHUCK LOWE
Engine 4 - 1999 Freightliner FL70/Central States 1250-GPM pump with 750 tank and 40 foam.
CHUCK LOWE CHUCK LOWE
Engine 1 - 1986 Hahn/Ranger 1250-GPM pump with 750 tank.
Tower 53 - 2006 Spartan Gladiator Advantage/Allain 95' Aerialscope. Former Lower Providence Twp., PA acquired in 2017.
CHUCK LOWE CHUCK LOWE
Engine 2 - 2008 Spartan/Rosenbauer 1250-GPM pump with 750 tank and 30 foam.
Rescue 1 - 2003 Freightliner/Central States.
CHUCK LOWE
Engine 3 - 2013 Spartan Advantage/Toyne 2000-GPM pump w/1000 tank and 25 foam.
CHUCK LOWE
Forestry 1 - 2008 Ford F-350 4x4 250-GPM pump with 225 tank and 8 class A foam.
PAGE 18
October, 2021
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
NEVER FORGET
Photos by Ron Jeffers
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
October, 2021
UNITED WE STAND
Photos by Ron Jeffers
PAGE 19
PAGE 20
October, 2021
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
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
CHUCK LOWE
North Attleborough Engine 3 ran this 1980 Ford L7000 2-Door Pump. It was built locally by Farrar with a 500-gallon water tank and a 750-GPM pump.
K. LEGER
Venting the roof.
Cooking Mishap in Fall River Leads to Fire
CHUCK LOWE
Engine 1 in New Bedford once ran this 1974 Maxim-F 1250-GPM pumper. It carried 300-gallons of water.
CHUCK LOWE
Brockton FD ran this 1986 Mack-CF/Baker 95' Aerialscope as Tower 2.
FALL RIVER, MA - Around 8:00 P.M. on August 12th, with temperatures in the high 80's, firefighters responded to 35 Buffington Street in Fall River for a reported structure fire. Dispatch reported receiving JUMP TO FILE# multiple calls for 081321100 the fire, sending Engines 4, 5 and 9, Ladders 2 and 4, Rescue 1 and Car 3 to the scene. On arrival, the report was heavy smoke and flames showing from the 'B' side of the building. This house was in the rear yard of another three-decker. Engine 4 laid in with their "leader lines", while Ladder 2 used a ground ladder to reach and ventilate the roof. According to interviews with the tenants, it appeared that the fire started in a pan on the stove that the occupant attempted to move. Unfortunately, this action resulted in the rapid spread of the fire. Because of the high temperatures outside, a second-alarm was called to provide relief to the first-in crews. Special Service members were also called to the scene to provide scene lighting, both interior and exterior, as well as cold drinks and wet and dry towels for the firefighters at rehab. - KENNETH LEGER K. LEGER
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
CHUCK LOWE
A window that was blown out of the home sits across the street from the scene.
One Person Dead After House Explosion in Maynard MAYNARD, MA - Maynard 911 received a call from the occupant of 27 Park St. around 4:20 P.M. on Thursday afternoon, September 2nd. The caller stated that there was a "funny smell" inside his residence, but he was unsure if it was gas or carbon monoxide. The dispatch center sent Engine 2 and the Police for an inside odor investigation. Within seconds of calling on scene, the officer of the Engine radioed back and requested a box alarm for a working structure fire. Box 44 was transmitted followed by an immediate request for a second-alarm. This brought mutual aid to the scene from Acton, Stow, Sudbury, Concord and Boxborough. Command provided a size up indicating heavy fire in a twoand-a-half story house with possible entrapment. Vehicles were in the driveway and neighbors indicated that the couple who lived there was home.
JUMP TO FILE #090221112
Members made an aggressive interior attack despite evidence of an explosion and the possibility of a gas fed fire. Primary searches were conducted on all floors with negative findings. A weakened floor was reported as crews were moving to perform their secondary search. This prompted the incident commander to order all members out of the structure. Crews then repositioned handlines and knocked down the remaining fire from the exterior. Once visibility improved and structural integrity could be assessed crews resumed their searches. One occupant of the house was located but deemed non-viable by personnel on scene. The victim's wife was not home. - CHUCK LOWE
October, 2021
PAGE 21
PAGE 22
October, 2021
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
Vehicle News
CHUCK LOWE
CHUCK LOWE
The Town of Marion has placed a 2021 Peterbilt/E-One 2500-gallon tanker into service. Marion has placed a 2021 Ford F-250 4X4 in to service as Squad 1.
CHUCK LOWE
CHUCK LOWE
Plymouth's newest apparatus, a 2021 E-One Cyclone 1500/1000/30F, has been as- Mass Department of Conservation and Recreation has assigned a 2020 Mack Granite/Fouts Bros 500/2200 to Myles Standish State Forest. signed to Engine 4.
CHUCK LOWE
CHUCK LOWE
Freetown's newest apparatus is a 2021 KME Severe Service 1500-GPM pumper that Carver took delivery of a 3000-gallon tanker, built by Pierce, on a 2021 Kenworth T-800 carries 1000-gallons of water. It's assigned to the Assonet Station and designated chassis. The previous Tanker 1 was been moved to Station 2 and re-designated Tanker 2. "Engine 1".
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
October, 2021
PAGE 23
MASSACHUSETTS
Apartment Building Fire Displaces 25 in Fall River FALL RIVER, MA - Around 6:30 on August 28th, firefighters responded to 210 Bradford Avenue on a still alarm. Engine 4, while still several blocks away, reported heavy smoke showing on approach. JUMP TO FILE# When they arrived 082921100 on scene they reported flames showing from the second floor. Firefighters went to work and contained the fire to the second floor, with smoke and water damage to the other floors. The fire displaced 25 people and several pets from the six-unit apartment building. Aerial work was blocked by utility wires, so ground ladders were used. Command called for the building inspector as well as the fire investigator to respond, along with Special Services to provide rehab for firefighters. - KENNETH LEGER K. LEGER
BACKSTOP
THE FULLY AUTOMATIC REVERSE BRAKING SYSTEM MINIMIZE DAMAGE TO SURROUNDING OBSTACLES BACKSTOP applies the brakes instantly and automatically when a reversing vehicle contacts an obstacle. COST SAVINGS Installing BACKSTOP minimizes damage costs to both the installed vehicle and surrounding obstacles. May reduce insurance premiums.
Veteran Owned
MINIMIZE VEHICLE DAMAGE BACKSTOP projects beyond the rear of the vehicle, minimizing collision damage to doors, lights, and rear steps.
MAXIMUM SAFETY BACKSTOP’s instant and automatic braking system is much faster than a driver’s reaction time. The brakes remain applied until the driver manually releases the brakes by shifting the vehicle out of reverse gear.
IIHS: Rear Automated Emergency Braking Is Standout Safety Feature • Based on insurance claims for some vehicles, IIHS said rear AEB can reduce damage liability claims by 28 percent, while a backup camera or those beeping sensors reduce that by just 5 percent.
Don’t Back Up Without Backstop Backstop USA 18 Hollywood Blvd. S • Forked River, NJ 08731 Phone: 609-971-2756 • Toll Free: (Outside NJ) 888-745-2983 • Fax: 609-971-2793 Email: support@backstop-usa.com • Website: www.backstop-usa.com
PAGE 24
October, 2021
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
Ministry of Presence Chaplain's Corner Didymus McHugh
When you are around chaplains you may hear the phrase "ministry of presence", but what is it and what does it look like? Well, I'll share something with you; anyone can have the ministry of presence. Many times, it is just being there that may help people feel more comfortable. Recently, I have been reminded that when the military is around, we feel safe. When law enforcement is around, people may feel safe. When firefighters are around, people may feel safe. When a child's parents are around, a child should feel safe. When a faith leader is around, people may feel safe. The person may not need the services, but it is just seeing that help is standing by that may bring down the stress level. They may not need to say a word or do anything. It is just knowing that they are ready. What is it for you, that all you need to do is know that is around you that makes you feel better. It's like having a fire extinguisher around; you may not need it, but you feel better having it around. In the Bible, there is an example of the ministry of presence. When Job lost everything, his friends showed up and just sat with him for seven days. They did not say a word because they could see the grief that Job was going through. Then all the trouble started as soon as they opened their mouths. Sometimes it is just best to be there and not say anything than trying to fill the silence with anything. The ministry of presence is different things. It is a mother up all night, when the child is sick. It is visiting someone in the hospital. They may be in a coma or dying and you may just sit there and hold their hand. It is when we know that there may be a threat of violence or a riot and we see that law enforcement or military is ready to handle the situation. When I work with one organization, they want to know how many people each person has worked with. I do not worry that my numbers may be as high as other people. My work is different than others. I do not say that I only spend a certain amount of time with an individual. I am there for that person, however long I need to be. There was an organization that I was with and there was a
tragic death of a member. I sat in the organization's building for three days because that was where people were accustomed to being. As people would drift in and out, one at a time, people would come and sit by me and we would talk or just be present together. Many of the people, who knew me, knew that I would probably be at the building. At the hospital, around the holidays, most of the people do not have any visitors. I know that the clients at the hospital feel more alone at that time. They feel abandoned or tossed to the side. And others in many hospitals and nursing homes feel the same way. I make sure that I am in the hospital and usually the clients know that I will be on the campus. I may or may not get a chance to see each person, but just knowing that I am in the building makes some of the client's anxiety level reduce. In a crisis or disaster, people may be in shock. They may be still in the presence of the event or it may be right after they walked away. It may not register with them who you are, but knowing that a chaplain, friend, or whatever you are to them, is there if they need you. There are stories of people who are about to die and they do not die until a certain friend or family member shows up. The person, whose life is about to end, may actually be comforting those that still live or that one person coming to visit may bring comfort and say something that the other may need to hear before they die. You may want to call it a level of comfort, like when a child is small and they have their favorite toy or stuffed animal. Many of us look for that level of comfort and we can also be a level of comfort. Please think of those who have gone through trauma, a crisis, or depression. Know that you just showing up may bring a smile to someone's face, may reduce the anxiety level, or bring the sense of peace and feeling that everything will be alright. Who are you willing to spend time being in the presence of, just to "Be" with them? Reminder: this is a time to shut off the phone and not look at the watch. Just Be. As I have heard said many times before, we are human beings, not human doings. I wish you all peace and may you have comfort.
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
The Town of Natick once operated a 1972 Maxim-S 100' tractor-drawn aerial. They have had three truck companies since then. The current Ladder 1 is a 2006 E-One Cyclone II 100’ rear-mount.
CHUCK LOWE
NFD's former Maxim Tiller
Until the next time. Stay safe, Didymus McHugh didymus-mchugh.com
CHUCK LOWE
Current NFD Ladder 1
October, 2021
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
DRILLS/TRAINING To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
WHITMAN, MA - The Whitman Fire Department recently took delivery of a Rescue Alive Ice Rescue Sled for use in water and ice rescues. Firefighters on each group participated in a classroom exercise as well as water training in some of the town's bodies of water. Additional training will be conducted with different conditions as the weather permits.
PAGE 25
Water Rescue Dry Suit MSD576 - Call for Price! Ice Commander Suits Size: Universal Adult IC9001-03 $719.00
I595 Ice Rescue Suit - $482.65 Oversize - $540.00
4185 Type III SAR Vest Small to XXXL - $126.50 4XL to 7XL - $137.25
Survitec Imperial #1500 Ice Rescue Suit Universal Adult $575.00
Call Shannon for More Information! 800-492-0779 or 603-436-2836
New England Marine & Industrial www.newenglandmarine.com
PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
Bob Long
PAGE 26
October, 2021
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
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.
In 1996, Cambridge purchased a Pierce Saber 1250/500 for Engine 1 in Harvard Square. It was built using a 54' tele-squirt that was removed from a 1977 American LaFrance that had been assigned to headquarters. The department reassigned this rig to Engine 8, 2007, when a new rescue pumper, "The Rumper", was delivered for Engine 1. After 19 years of service in the Peoples Republic this apparatus was sold to the City of Chelsea. The squirt was removed and it was converted to be used as Squad 5. It remained there for six years and was recently purchased by Hyannis to be used as a spare.
FIRE & IRON MC STATION #144
Fire & Iron MC Makes Toy Donation to Brockton Hospital BROCKOTN, MA - On Thursday, August 19th, the Fire & Iron Firefighters Motorcycle Club, Station #144 based on the South Shore, stopped by the Signature Healthcare Brockton Hospital to make a donation of toys to their pediatric unit. Fire & Iron held a "Christmas in July" toy drive and were able to get donations from club members, area businesses and friends. A donation is made by the club annually during the holidays, but with the current need so great for their pediatric patients, another donation was put together. Hospital staff reported that the toys are desperately needed, as they have seen an influx of pediatric patients being admitted with everything from respiratory illnesses, to mental health issues.
CHUCK LOWE
The Squirt running as Cambridge Engine 8.
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.
CHUCK LOWE
Former Chelsea Squad 5.
CHUCK LOWE
CHUCK LOWE
Cambridge: FF Frankie Maffa, now retired, and FF Stephon Kinn take a breather during a fire many years ago.
Hyannis' "new" spare pump.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
October, 2021
PAGE 27
PAGE 28
October, 2021
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
Vehicle News
ON THE LITER SIDE If you have photos you would like to see in our “On The Liter Side” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
Millbury purchased a pair of 2020 Ferrara Cinder 2000-GPM pumps that are now running as Engines 1 & 3. These identical rigs carry 1000-gallons of water and 20-gallons of foam.
CHUCK LOWE CHUCK LOWE
MFD Engine Co. 1
Caution: DCR Breaker Crossing! It's a Cape thing!
CHUCK LOWE
MFD Engine Co. 3
www.1rbn.com
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
October, 2021
PAGE 29
PAGE 30
October, 2021
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
NEW HAMPSHIRE
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.
Vehicle News The Brookline, NH Fire Department recently placed into service two brand new pieces of apparatus. The first new piece of apparatus a 2021 HME Ahrens-Fox 1500/1045/30F which replaced the much older Engine 2, a 1995 KME Renegade 1250/1000. The second piece of new apparatus, a 2021 Dodge Ram 5500/Alexis 500/250, replaced the classic Forestry 1, a 1969 Chevy C20/Dept. The former Forestry 1 will now become part of the Brookline Fire Department Antique Fleet.
CHUCK LOWE
Stratham Ambulance 1 is a 2018 Ford F-550 that was built by Horton.
JACK STAWASZ/HOLLIS NH EMERGENCY BUFF
Forestry 1- 2021 Dodge Ram 5500/Alexis 500/250
CHUCK LOWE
Hebron runs this 2016 E-One Cyclone as Engine 2. It has a 1500GPM pump, 2500 tank and 30-gallons of class A foam.
CHUCK LOWE
Ashland Engine 2 operates a 2018 Spartan/Toyne 1500-GPM pumper that carries 1000-gallons of water.
JACK STAWASZ/HOLLIS NH EMERGENCY BUFF
Engine 2- 2021 HME Ahrens-Fox 1500/1045/30F
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
October, 2021
PAGE 31
PAGE 32
October, 2021
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
NEW HAMPSHIRE
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.
CHUCK LOWE
CHUCK LOWE
Hebron runs a unique 2007 Mitsubishi Fuso FG140 brush truck. It was built by National, with a 300-gallon tank and 500-GPM pump, on a Reading body.
Alexandria Rescue 1 operates a 2012 Ford F-550 mini pumper that was built by Freedom Fire Apparatus. It carries 300-gallons of water and has a 750-GPM pump.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
October, 2021
PAGE 33
PAGE 34
October, 2021
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MAINE
Enjoy taking photographs? IN SERVICE
Get the most out of your hobby.
If your department has photos you would like to see in our “In Service” feature please upload them on our website www.1RBN.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
1st Responder News compensates correspondents for their article & photograph submissions.
Contact Lindsey TODAY for more information! CHUCK LOWE
Skowhegan Truck 11 runs with a 2016 Pierce Enforcer PUC 1500/500/107' aerial.
Lindsey@1strespondernews.com
845-534-7500 ext. 212
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
October, 2021
PAGE 35
PAGE 36
October, 2021
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
