Fire news ne 09 14

VOLUME 2, NO. 5

W W W .FIRENE WS .COM

Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Since 1973 SEPTEMBER 2014

Webster firefighters battled this early morning apartment building blaze.

See full story on page 25. - Fire News photo by Alan Brackett

Join Fire News at Long Island’s First 9-11 Stair Climb See pages 4 & 11

-Southern New England Edition-

FireNews.com

Fire News, September 2014, Page 3

In this issue...

Lightning Causes Ayer Blaze Firefighters had to endure the high heat during a three-alarm blaze in Ayer (MA).

See story page 7

Bridgeport 4-Story Blaze Handled Firefighters from Bridgeport's east side responded to Stratford Avenue to find a large four-story, residential-over-commercial with heavy fire.

See story page 13

Vacant Apartment Fire in Bridgewater The Bridgewater FD responded to a fire in the downtown district. A vacant apartment building and a vacant duplex were destroyed.

See story page 16

Engine 5’s FF Austin Memorial

A memorial dedication at Engines 5’s firehouse in West Quincy (MA) to honor fallen Firefighter John Austin.

See story page 26

135th Annual Ball and Awards Ceremony Boston firefighters were honored for heroic acts performed in 2013; 13 for their bravery at the Boston Marathon attack.

See story page 30

Hopkinton Mourns Loss of Dick Bartlett Firefighter and photographer Dick Bartlett, 71, passed away on June 17, 2014.

See story page 34

PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 Up Close and Personal . . . . . . . .pages 36 & 37 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pages 38 & 39 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 39

A Service for Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island Firefighters and EMS Providers Founded 1973

146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713

FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher TIM EDWARDS, Executive Editor DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor GARY P. JOYCE, Asst. Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production/Sales LYNN SEDLER, Art Director CLIFF CHIESA, Production Manager Advertising Sales: BARBARA CONNOLLY, EVELYN ALOISIO Graphic Artist: GREG JONES, CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS GABE BALSAMO, DICK BARTLETT, ALAN BRACKETT, MARIE BRENNAN, AMANDA CARMODY, THOMAS CARMODY, DAVID CINQ-MARS, ROGER CONANT, KEVIN CZARZASTY, TIM DELANEY, PATRICK DOOLEY, DOUG DOW, GLENN DUDA, LIZ FEITELBERG, MATT GASKINS, TIM GORMAN, JOHN HANLEY, ED HARVEY, JEFFREY HASTINGS, STEPHEN HESS, MIKE IPPOLITO, DORRANCE “DOC” JOHNSON, KEN LABELLE, ROB LADD, MICHAEL LAPRADE, SCOTT LAPRADE, KEN LEGER, MIKE MCGONEGAL, CHARLIE MCGRATH, KEITH MURATORI, RICK NOHL, BILL NOONAN, PETER OSTROSKEY JR., REG PATCHELL, JIM PERUTA, GLENN PRESTON, ROB REARDON, LARRY RILEY, PAUL SHEA, JOE SHEFER, NICK STEHN, CHRIS STEINES, PHIL SULLIVAN, RICK SUSI, PAT TRAVERS, STEPHEN WALSH COPYRIGHT 2014, THE FIRE NEWS LLC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

For advertising rates and information, call (631) 776-0500 Press 3 Editorial: (631) 776-0500 Ext 281 Fax number: (631) 776-1854 Internet: http://www.firenews.com e-mail: tim@firenews.com

Six Editions Serving Long Island, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Pennsylvania Proud Member Of:

Letters to the Editor, byline articles, and columns represent the opinions of the writers and photographers and are not necessarily the views of the Fire News. We reserve the right to edit all of the above. We are not responsible for errors in advertisements beyond the cost of advertising space. Copy submitted is subject to editing for space requirements. The placing of an advertisement in this publication does not constitute endorsement. Contents are copyrighted. Editorial and advertising copy cannot be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Fire News is published monthly by Fire News LLC, with corporate offices at 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713.

THANK YOU! 89,000 for the likes!

(Help us get to 100,000!)

Page 4, Fire News, September 2014

FireNews.com

From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor

Whew... I’m thinking about October!

Many years ago, I worked with middle school students in a local village on Long Island. I loved my job and was dedicated to making sure my students were the best in whatever they wanted to do. Two — no three — of the proudest moments of my life were when I fought the 1995 Wildfires and realized I was supplying water to some of my former students who were meeting the flames head on.

Another proud moment was when I was taking a Fire News Motley Crew shot at a drill and asked the group how many had me as a teacher. Wow, all but one of the firefighters raised their hands!

Finally, a few years before my retirement, I stood in uniform with many of my former students, mourning the loss of ex-Captain Jeff Weiner who was killed in Iraq. As a teacher, you learn to care about the young adults of whose lives you are a part.

What made me have this nostalgic moment? Ironically, I thought of this when I read about the theme for Fire Prevention Week 2014.

As a teacher, I took fire prevention seriously. I made sure my students “planned to get out alive” by drawing floor plans of their homes, highlighting escape routes and locating where smoke alarms were. One year I had students design a poster that incorporated a clever saying about the alarms. One student wrote, “If it wasn’t for the beep, you would still be asleep!” A great saying that should have become a campaign slogan.

Guess what theme the National Fire Protection Associ-ation has decided on for Fire Prevention Week 2014? “Working Smoke Alarms Save Lives: Test Yours Every Month!” For those of you who do not know it, Fire Prevention week is October 5-11. Have you started to plan your fire prevention program? Have you thought about ordering your “give-aways” so that you are ready to make a difference in the lives of our future; the children who love what you do and want to grow up to be firefighters and EMS providers.

This year’s fire prevention theme is important. “Smoke alarms can make a life-saving difference in a fire, but they need to be working,” said Lorraine Carli, NFPA’s vice president of Outreach and Advocacy. “Unfortunately, many home fire deaths result from fires where a smoke alarm is present but does not operate. This year’s Fire Prevention Week theme focuses on motivating people to test their smoke alarms each month to make sure they’re working properly.”

All of us in the fire service are teachers. Prepare yourself so you can reach out to your community to fight fires through education.

Your efforts do make a difference in saving lives. Oh, and by the way, are the smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors working in your home? …Dennis

WANT YOUR PHOTOS PUBLISHED IN FIRE NEWS? Contact Tim Edwards at tim@firenews.com for info

Join Fire News in Remembering 343 Fallen Heroes of FDNY Register for the 9-11 Memorial Stair Climb Show others that you will never forget the 343 members of FDNY who bravely gave their lives on September 11, 2001. Join the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation on Saturday, October 25, 2014, for the 9-11 Memorial Stair Climb at the Kenneth P. Lavalle Stadium on the campus of Stony Brook University in New York.

Participants will climb the stairs of the Kenneth P. Lavalle Stadium multiple times for a total of 110 stories. This represents the number of floors in the Twin Towers and symbolically completes the climb those fallen heroes were unable to finish. Everyone will receive a photo ID of one of the fallen heroes of September 11th.

“The 9-11 Memorial Stair Climb is an opportunity for everyone in the community to show their respect and admiration for these courageous men. It also reassures the family, friends and co-workers of the fallen that these firefighters are not forgotten,” said Chief Ron Siarnicki, Executive Director of the NFFF. “The Foundation is very pleased to be working with Stony Brook University for this event and we want to be sure that each of those firefighters are represented by someone climbing the stadium.”

The fee is $35 per person. All participants should park in the Stadium Lot and enter through Gate 2. Check-in begins at 7:00 am and the climb begins at 8:30 am. The proceeds help the National Fallen firefighters Foundation create and maintain programs that support fire service survivors. Support of these 9-11 Memorial Stair Climb events provides assistance to the surviving families and co-workers of the 343 firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice on September 11, 2001.

“Stony Brook University is proud to host the 9-11 Memorial Stair Climb in honor of the fallen firefighters,” said Elaine Crosson, Vice President, External Relations of Stony Brook University. “We honor their memories and deeply appreciate the tremendous loss their families have endured.”

For more details about the climb or to register, go to www.9-11stairclimb.com or contact Bill Hinton at 301-788-7954.

Attend the Stair Climb via the Bridgeport Ferry and We’ll pick you up in Port Jefferson Email Joe Minogue minogue4bfd@gmail.com for details.

Page 6, Fire News, September 2014

FireNews.com

House Burns in Bethlehem

Early on July 8, 2014, a passing jogger reported a house fire on Auncient Oak Road in the Town of Bethlehem (CT). The first arriving officer reported a 2-1/2 story wood frame home fully involved and on the verge of collapse. With the house so far gone, a defensive attack was ordered and crews worked to protect the two-car garage and the other buildings on the property which were not involved.

Mutual aid in the form of tankers, manpower and station coverage was provided by the neighboring towns of Watertown, Morris,

Woodbury and Washington. None of the occupants were home at the time of the fire and the investigators were looking into the possibility it may have been started by a severe thunderstorm which moved through the area earlier in the night. One firefighter sustained non-life threatening injuries when a charged supply line gate came uncoupled during initial drafting operations.

- Fire News photo by Kevin Czarzasty

Woonsocket House Fire Goes to 3 Alarms

On June 5, 2014, a Woonsocket (RI) detective observed smoke emanating from a three-story wood-framed occupied dwelling with heavy fire venting from all floors and porches on side A. The firstdue engine requested a second alarm on arrival. Companies aggressively stretched big lines into the dwelling from the side B stairwell.

Crews also searched for possible occupants under heavy smoke and heat on all floors. Ladder 2 positioned themselves on side D and

began vertical ventilation of the roof. The bulk of the fire was knocked down in about 15 minutes. Squads on the third floor continued to open up the ceilings as heavy fire was now beginning to roll in the attic and out of the vent hole. Command allowed the firefighters to continue operating inside to get a handle on this fire. A third alarm was ordered to bring relief crews to the scene to assist in the extensive overhauling.

- Fire News photos by Ken LaBelle

FireNews.com

Fire News, September 2014, Page 7

Lightning, Cause of 3-Alarmer in Ayer

A lightning strike during a fast moving storm on July 3, 2014, sparked a three-alarm house fire leaving two families homeless in Ayer (MA). Chief of Department Robert Pedrazzi’s wife was driving home when she spotted the fire and called her husband. The Chief went over the radio and, on his arrival, advised he had a fire in the attic of a 2-1/2 story dwelling. As companies arrived on scene heavy smoke pushed from the top floor. Once the ladder crew was

able to open up the roof, lines were stretched up inside the attic and the fire was quickly knocked down. Three alarms were sounded due to the intense heat and the size of the home. Mutual aid to the fire came from the neighboring towns of Littleton, Groton, Shirley, Devens, Lunenburg, and Fitchburg.

- Fire News photo by SmokeShowingPhotography.com

Page 8, Fire News, September 2014

FireNews.com

Fully Involved in Thomaston

Recently, Thomaston (CT) firefighters responded to a report of a fully involved blaze in a 2-1/2 story house built in the 1800s. There were also reports of ammunition exploding, a propane tank releasing and a breach in a heating oil tank. A tanker shuttle was established using Terryville, Northfield and Harwinton mutual aid tankers along with Thomaston’s tanker. With the building so well involved prior to arrival it was a total loss with the structure eventually collapsing. The DEEP and State Fire Marshals were on the scene to investigate and help contain the fuel oil spill from the breached tank.

- Fire News photo by Kevin Czarzasty

Looking Back Woonsocket Portola Tech Mill Fire

On June 7, 2011, Woodsocket crews responded to the former Portola Tech Industries on Fairmount Street. The mill structure was a four-story mill constructed in 1889, comprised of roughly 217,000 square feet of oil soaked heavy timber.

Heavy fire was showing from the second and third floors and companies were evacuated. Command requested a third alarm on arrival and also two off-duty platoons to be called in. Mutual aid filled out the extra alarms. Tower 2 set up on side A and tried to make a knock down but the water seemed to have little effect.

A drafting site was established at the Blackstone River and then pumped to the scene via several LDH feeder lines. Over a half dozen aerial devices, deck guns, portable monitors, and hand lines played water into the structure. The building began to collapse on sides A and D spewing bricks around the collapse zone and vibrating the ground hundreds of feet away.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

FireNews.com

Fire News, September 2014, Page 9

Page 10, Fire News, September 2014

FireNews.com

Dedham House Fire Dedham (MA) firefighters battled a onealarm fire on River Street early on July 20, 2014. The house was vacant at the time and there were no injuries.

Firefighters from Westwood, Norwood, Boston, Needham and Quincy assisted on mutual aid.

- Fire News photo by Stephen Walsh

Hartford 2-Alarmer On July 9, 2014, Hartford firefighters responded to a two-alarm blaze in a fourstory brick residential-over-commercial structure. Three tower ladders took on a heavy amount of fire in the cockloft.

- Fire News photo by Sean Freiman

2-Alarmer for Malden Firefighters On July 24, 2014, Malden firefighters responded to a two-alarm fire on Cross Street.

- Fire News photo by Tim Gorman

Page 12, Fire News, September 2014

FireNews.com

3-Alarmer in Holyoke Apt. Building Firefighters responded to a three-alarm fire in Holyoke (MA) early on June 16, 2014. The fire was in a large L shaped four-story brick occupied apartment building.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

Oxford Battles Fast-Moving Storage Fire On June 8, 2014, Oxford firefighters received a call reporting a fire at Uncle Bob’s Self Storage located on Main Street in Oxford. A crew of Oxford jakes, who had just responded to a multi-family dwelling fire in Webster, responded back to their own town to assist.

The first-due Oxford Engine arrived on scene with a three-man crew and struck a second alarm. Mutual aid from an already depleted southern Worcester County was sent to the scene from Auburn, Dudley, Charlton and Southbridge. Thirteen storage units burned and others received varying degrees of smoke damage. Firefighters had difficulty gaining access to the units due to locks and roll up doors. Oxford Fire Chief Sherri Bemis did not believe the fire was of suspicious origin.

- Fire News photo by Alan Brackett

Arlington Shed Fire Arlington (MA) firefighters battled a fully involved shed fire on June 22, 2014.

- Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan

FireNews.com

Fire News, September 2014, Page 13

2-Alarmer in Bridgeport 4 Story On July 19, 2014, firefighters from Bridgeport’s east side responded to Stratford Avenue to find a large four-story, residential-over-commercial with heavy fire on the number four side of the second through fourth floors. Companies attempted an interior attack but were driven out by the intense and fast spreading flames. Battalion Chief Thode transmitted a second alarm and ordered an exterior attack. An additional engine over the second alarm was special called.

Three ladders, multiple master streams and handlines were used to knock down the fire. Seven engines, three trucks and the rescue unit battled the blaze for an hour to bring it under control. The upper floors were vacant at the time of the fire making the fire suspicious in nature.

- Fire News photo by Glenn Duda

Shed Fire in Fitchburg On June 22, 2014, Fitchburg firefighter Erica Smith used a handline to knock down a fire that occurred on the outside of a shed. The fire may have started in a compost pile due to spontaneous ignition. The fire was spreading up the side of the shed but was quickly brought under control.

- Fire News photo by SmokeShowingPhotography.com

Terryville 3-Story Fire Recently, Terryville volunteers were dispatched for a possible fire with smoke showing from the second floor of a structure on North Main Street. The first arriving unit declared a working fire with heavy fire in the second and third floor apartments extending to the attic. An additional engine was requested from Thomaston and station coverage from Harwinton and Wolcott. The main body of fire was quickly knocked down but companies spent an extended period of time overhauling and checking for hot spots.

- Fire News photo by Kevin Czarzasty

Page 14, Fire News, September 2014

FireNews.com

Heat Gun Starts Fire in Providence A Providence (RI) homeowner using a heat gun sparked a fire that destroyed his 1-1/2 story dwelling on June 2, 2014, on Fruit Hill Avenue. He was removing paint over a bay window near the eaves. The fire traveled upwards through the knee walls and rafters into the attic space. Companies arrived to find heavy fire on the upper floor. Handlines went into operation through the side-A doorway to the upper floor. Crews on the second floor called a “Mayday� as they were briefly cut off by heavy fire. All personnel were safely accounted for. The fire was brought under control in under an hour. The house received major damage from the fire and overhauling.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

4-Alarmer in Stow Firefighters encountered heavy fire in a split level wood frame ranch dwelling on Hudson Road in Stow (MA). Extra alarms were sounded for manpower and to assist with water supply.

- Fire News photo by Douglas Dow

Old Building Goes in Danvers On June 20, 2014, Danvers Fire struck a box for a building fire on Pine Street, opposite town hall. Upon arrival, first-due companies reported heavy smoke and fire showing from an occupied 2-1/2 frame; two-family. The building was approximately 150 years old. All companies were ordered out of the building 10 minutes into the job. Beverly, Peabody, Salem and Wenham assisted at the fire. One member was transported by EMS for unknown minor injuries.

- Fire News photo by Glenn Preston

FireNews.com

Fire News, September 2014, Page 15

2-Alarmer in Portland On June 18, 2014, Portland (CT) firefighters were called out to a reported fire at Belle Vista Heights. First arriving firefighters found smoke showing and called for a second alarm and mutual aid. The fire was placed under control in just under two hours.

- Fire News photo by Jim Peruta

Water Issues at Glastonbury Fire Firefighters responded to a working fire in Glastonbury (CT) on July 2, 2014. The members arrived at a home on Thompson Street to find a well involved single-story wood frame on fire. Mutual aid from numerous towns assisted at the scene with water supply.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

Page 16, Fire News, September 2014

FireNews.com

4-Alarmer in Bridgewater Draws a Crowd

The Bridgewater Fire Department responded to a four-alarm fire in the downtown district in which a 10-unit vacant apartment building and a 2-½ vacant duplex were destroyed. Several exposures included a commercial restaurant and two other occupied 2-½ story homes. Ten engines and three ladders were in operation with mutual aid from eight communities.

- Fire News story by Chief George W. Rogers, Jr., photo provided by Bridgewater Police Sergeant Tom Lagrasta

Arson Suspected in Bakery Blaze During the early morning of June 24, 2014, a fire at the rear of a commercial bakery caused significant damage to a single-story building. On arrival of Leominster Engine 3, heavy fire was overlapping the rear of the shop. Three engines and a truck were on scene. The fire is believed to be arson and is under investigation.

- Fire News photo by SmokeShowingPhotography.com

Hartford Building Fire Early on July 9, 2014, Hartford fire units were dispatched to a reported building fire on Park Street. Engine 8 arrived on scene and reported fire showing from the roof. Firefighters stretched lines to the top floor of a four-story, brick apartment building with commercial business on the first floor. The firefighters searched for the seat of the fire, determined the fire was in the cockloft and began operations. A second alarm was ordered and firefighters began opening up and hitting the fire. After a brief evacuation due to a ceiling collapse and soft roof, firefighters completed the job with no injuries; several families were displaced.

- Fire News photo by Jim Peruta

Escape in Fall River Blaze Early on July 25, 2014, the Fall River Fire Department responded to a two-alarm fire in a twostory, four-family home. A young boy was rescued by a police officer and all other residents escaped from windows or fire escapes because the primary escape route was blocked by fire.

- Fire News photo by Ken Leger

FireNews.com

Fire News, September 2014, Page 17

9-Alarmer in Cambridge Cambridge firefighters responded to a ninealarm fire on Allston Street on July 27, 2014 - Fire News photo by Tim Gorman

Total Loss in Middlebury On July 3, 2014, a late afternoon fire occurred in an 11,000-square foot home on Break Neck Hill Road in Middlebury (CT).

Middlebury volunteers arrived to smoke showing from the rear of the structure, but had initial problems finding it. As the fire continued to grow, fed by polyurethane insulation and the lack of a municipal water supply, the call went out for mutual aid from surrounding towns, a ladder and engine from the City of Waterbury and tankers and manpower from Watertown, Woodbury, Southbury, and Oxford. Regional Tanker Task Forces was activated in Litchfield, northern New Haven and Fairfield counties to assist with water supply. Even though exhaustive efforts were put forth by all on scene the massive fire claimed the structure as a total loss.

- Fire News photo by Kevin Czarzasty

Page 18, Fire News, September 2014

FireNews.com

Condo Blaze in So. Windsor On July 19, 2014, the South Windsor Fire Department responded to Misty Meadow Lane for a structure fire.

On arrival they had heavy fire showing from one condo and spreading to other units. Crews put their tower ladder to work and knocked down the fire in about 15 minutes. Six condo units were damaged or destroyed in the fire. Mutual aid from the 8th District Fire Department responded to the scene with other departments covering.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

Worcester MA 2-Alarmer Worcester (MA) firefighters responded to a twoalarm fire on Stanton Street in the Bell Hill section of the city. Companies had heavy fire showing from the rear porches of a three-decker. The fire was brought under control within 30 minutes.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

Berlin Condo Fire Berlin (MA) firefighters responded to a working fire on Brook Lane.

The fire took place on July 27, 2014, in the attic of a 1-1/2 story wood frame dwelling. The building is a single-family 55+ condo with four connected units.

- Fire News photo by Douglas Dow

FireNews.com

Fire News, September 2014, Page 19

Fatal MVA on I-90 On July 25, 2014, Worcester (MA) firefighters responded to an MVA on Interstate 190 South in Worcester at the Exit 1 off ramp. The car rolled over in such a position that made it difficult to extricate the victims. A tower ladder was special called to the scene to help with victim removal. One occupant died as a result of injuries sustained.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

Busy Day for Lawrence Jakes On July 16, 2014, Lawrence firefighters were called to a large three-story wood frame building for wires burning in the basement. They had a feeder line and a 1-3/4 line to the building and the fire was a second alarm and three engines and two trucks along with Rescue were on scene. While in the process of making up from that call, another box for a house fire came in. The deputy instructed fire alarm to send the covering companies (an Andover engine and a ladder from Lowell) to the scene with Lawrence companies from the first scene. On arrival Andover Engine 4 and Lowell Ladder 1 had smoke showing from second floor windows. They stretched lines to the top floor, vented vertically and horizontally and were able to get in and knock the fire down. While in overhauling a ceiling came down on a lieutenant sending him to the hospital to be evaluated. This was the second of three multiples in the city that tour. - Fire News photo by SmokeShowingPhotography.com

Hot Brakes in Uxbridge

The brakes on a tractor trailer overheated and caught fire on Route 146 North Bound on June 9, 2014, in Uxbridge (MA). The fire extended to the contents over the trailer’s axle. The incident com-

mander special-called a tanker to assist, as there were no hydrants in the area. The fire was knocked down using a handline along with foam.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

Page 22, Fire News, September 2014

FireNews.com

Wrong Way Head On in Webster On July 16, 2014, Webster Fire and Rescue was alerted to a serious two-car head on motor vehicle accident on Interstate 395 southbound between exits 1 and 2.

Webster police and EMS were first to arrive and found an elderly driver badly pinned, and a family of five in a large SUV. Four of the five family members in the Tahoe required medical treatment and transport, but none of their injuries were deemed life threatening. Firefighters disentangled the elderly man from his car, who remained conscious throughout. After being removed, paramedics continued to stabilize him and then transported him to a Worcester hospital, as were the other involved parties. Ambulances from the Oxford and Dudley Fire Departments were summoned to assist.

- Fire News photo by Alan Brackett

Heat a Problem in and Out in Vernon On July 13, 2014, Vernon (CT) firefighters responded to a threealarm fire on Cedar Street. Members arrived to fire venting from two floors on the B side. The fire was traveling the walls and floors and the members were pulled out for defensive operations.

Numerous mutual aid departments assisted at the scene with apparatus and ambulances because members were suffering from heat related injuries.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

Boat Fire on Lake Whalom On July 21, 2014, firefighters from Lunenburg and Leominster responded to a boat fire on Lake Whalom.

Heavy smoke was visible on arrival of Leominster Engine 3. It took a foam line to knock down the fire from the gasoline engine. Companies were on scene for about 45 minutes. DEP was notified of the gas that leaked into the lake.

- Fire News photo by SmokeShowingPhotography.com

Garbage Truck Fire in Shelton On July 1, 2014, Shelton Fire Companies 1 and 4 were dispatched to River Road near Hawthorne for a truck fire. First units on scene found a garbage truck with the cab heavily involved. The road was blocked and members went to work extinguishing the blaze. The driver was uninjured.

- Fire News photo by Keith Muratori

FireNews.com

Fire News, September 2014, Page 23

Brush Fire in Duxbury

On June 30, 2014, Duxbury firefighters were called out to a brush fire on Route 3 during rush hour. Companies made a quick knockdown.

- Fire News photo by Rob Reardon

Leominster Car Fire

Leominster firefighter Jon Campagna gets a line on an SUV fire.

- Fire News photo by SmokeShowingPhotography.com

Page 24, Fire News, September 2014

FireNews.com

Truck Fire in Coventry On July 22, 2014, Coventry (RI) fire companies were dispatched to the Home Depot on Centre of New England Boulevard for a truck fire. Chief Frank Brown arrived to find the tractor trailer fully involved. Engine-6 arrived and made the initial attack. Due to unknown contents of the trailer and the truck's diesel tank letting go, the full first alarm was filled in bringing an additional engine, ladder and rescue. Foam task force was also requested from the City of Warwick and the Town of Johnston.

- Fire News photo by Richard Collins, Jr.

Liquid Nitrogen Truck Fire in Bozrah Recently, the Bozrah Volunteer Fire Company responded to a fire on a tractor trailer that was carrying liquid nitrogen. - Fire News photo by Larry Riley

Car Fire on I-395 in Webster On Thursday June 26, 2014, Webster firefighters responded to a well-involved car fire just north of Exit 1 on Interstate 395 in Webster. There were no injuries.

Traffic was tied up in the area for about 40 minutes.

- Fire News photo by Alan Brackett

Trench Digging Equipment Burns in Dudley On June 18, 2014, Dudley firefighters responded to a reported car fire located on Dudley-Oxford Road. While en route they were advised by police, the fire was in a "Ditch-Witch," a piece of machinery used to dig ditches, in this case, for an irrigation system. The machine was fully involved upon arrival. Quick thinking employees used a garden hose to keep radiant heat generated away from a newly constructed house. Dudley firefighters Steve Chenard and Scott Benoit quickly knock down the fire.

- Fire News photo by Alan Brackett

FireNews.com

Fire News, September 2014, Page 25

PCTRT Rescues Horse

Duxbury firefighters received a 911 call for a horse that had fallen into a culvert near a cranberry bog. Arriving companies activated the Plymouth County Technical Rescue Team (PCTRT), which also specializes in large animal rescues.

Within 30minutes the unit had members, a veterinarian, and equipment on scene. Crew in survival suits immediately went to work to secure a specialized harness under the horse. While that was being set up the Duxbury DPW brought a front-end loader to help extract the horse safely. PCTRT is made up of about 50 firefighters from the 27 cities and towns of Plymouth County. The PCTRT handles high angle rope rescue, trench rescue, confined space, swift water rescue, dive rescue and more. You can follow the PCTRT on Twitter at @PCTRT - Fire News photos by Rob Reardon and Nick Stehn

Cover Story

Fire Guts Vacant Building in Webster

In the early morning hours of July 5, 2014, Webster firefighters responded to a fire in a vacant three-story apartment building, threatening one occupied home and threatening to spread to another on Fifth Avenue. The building was the site of a previous fire on July 20, 2013, which displaced three families and killed a dog.

Webster police were first to arrive, reporting fire through the roof, and evacuating occupants on both sides of the fire structure.

Webster Fire Chief Brian Hickey arrived and made the decision to protect the exposures and initiate an aggressive exterior attack. He immediately struck a third alarm, summoning additional resources

from Dudley, Oxford, Southbridge and Thompson to assist Webster firefighters at the scene. When first-due Webster jakes arrived they began to knock down fire that had spread to the exposures and the operation quickly became a “surround and drown” as portions of the roof and interior floors began to collapse shortly after firefighters’ arrival. After deploying numerous handlines, twin aerial master streams from Tower 1, and a portable deck gun, firefighters slowly got the upper hand on the massive fire. The building was razed.

- Fire News photos by Alan Brackett

Page 26, Fire News, September 2014

FireNews.com

Boston Commissioner Finn Officially Sworn In

Boston Fire Commissioner Joseph E. Finn was officially sworn on July 28, 2014, at Engine Company 20 in Dorchester by Mayor Martin Walsh. Commissioner Finn was appointed back on July 7, 2014, and assumed duties that day.

- Fire News photos by Bill Noonan

Eng. 5’s FF Austin Memorial

Firefighter John Austin’s son John John Austin is pictured sitting on bench. Also in photo: John Austin (John’s father), Jane Austin (John’s sister), Lilian Austin (John’s mom), and Kari Brown (John’s widow).

On July 8, 2014, a memorial dedication took who died on July 8, 2013, while responding to a place at Engines 5’s Firehouse in West Quincy call.

- Fire News photos by Liz Feitelberg (MA) to honor fallen Firefighter John Austin,

FireNews.com

Fire News, September 2014, Page 27

New Marlborough Muster a Huge Success

Bright sunshine greeted five teams from fire companies near and far to the field at the New Marlborough Central School for the first ever Firefighter’s Muster and Field Day. The events ranged from simply connecting hoses together and putting on antique firefighting gear then running down the track, to actually putting out a fire. Teams from Canaan (CT) and Hinsdale brought in both their men’s and lady’s teams, and the fictitious community of Bissellville showed up with Ray Patel, an 84-year old veteran of the muster circuit, who ran in a few events!

The Hinsdale men’s team has a long history of being victors in these events and they proved themselves the champs once again taking first place in every event, with the exception of the tug of war. Canaan overpowered them, however the Hinsdale ladies team with some “help” from the judges “beat” Canaan.

The judges, along with a good deal of the contest equipment,

were provided by the New England Muster Association (NEMA).

The NEMA muster season runs from June to late September, they are often run with antique fire apparatus which race down the muster track adding a great of excitement to the events! More information about NEMA can be found on their Facebook page.

The New Marlborough Muster Team would like to thank everyone who supported the event in their first attempt at an event of this scale, a major undertaking. But, with teamwork and hard work the “Squirrels” were victorious — perhaps not in competition but promoting the brother and sisterhood of the fire service while hosting an exciting community event.

- Fire News photos by Brian Dillon, submitted by Ed Harvey

Page 28, Fire News, September 2014

FireNews.com

Wright is New Chief at New Haven

On July 24, 2014, the new chief of the New Haven Fire Department, Allyn Wright, was sworn in by Mayor Toni Harp. The ceremony took place in the city hall chambers and was attended by dignitaries, colleagues and family.

- Fire News photos by Glenn Duda

Leominster Firefighter Memorial The family of recently departed firefighters assist in the removal of the black curtains that cover the memorial with the new names now added to it.

Chief of Department Robert Sideleau (left) and FF Robert Penning (President of the FF’s Relief Association) stand at attention during the playing of taps.

- Fire News photos by SmokeShowingPhotography.com

FireNews.com

Fire News, September 2014, Page 29

Firefighter Sunday in Randolph

Randolph (MA) FD firefighter on June 8, 2014, and the flag flying from their ladder truck on Flag Day the weekend after.

- Fire News photos by Liz Feitelberg

Page 30, Fire News, September 2014

FireNews.com

Boston FD 135th Annual Ball and Awards Ceremony

The 135th Annual Ball and Awards Ceremony of the Boston Fire Department honored 19 firefighters for heroic acts performed in 2013; 13 of the 19 were honored for their bravery at the April 15, 2013 Boston Marathon terrorist attack.

The honorees were: District Fire Chief Scott J. Malone, District 4; Firefighter Timothy J. Freda, Ladder Company 15; Fire Lieutenant Lorenzo S. Thompson, Engine Company 56; Firefighter Gabriel J. Clark, Engine Company 56; Firefighter Tyrance J. Corbett, Engine Company 56; Firefighter Marc R. Hayhurst, Ladder Company 6; Fire Captain Paul G. Glora, Engine Company 9; Fire Lieutenant Frederick D.

Lorenz, Emergency Medical Response Section; Fire Lieutenant Sean M. O’Brien, Engine Company 7; Firefighter Charles M. Buchanan, Engine Company 24; Firefighter Michael S. Foley, Engine Company 18; Firefighter Charles F. Follett, Engine Company 30; Firefighter Michael J. Materia, Engine Company 33; Firefighter Elson F. Monteiro, Engine Company 29; Firefighter Adalberto Rodriquez, Engine Company 20; Firefighter Phillip C. Skrabut, Engine Company 17; Firefighter Patrick F. Foley, Engine Company 21; Firefighter James K. Plourde, Engine Company 28; and Firefighter Douglas P. Menard, Engine Company 14.

- Fire News photos by Bill Noonan

FireNews.com

Fire News, September 2014, Page 31

Dighton Memorial Dedication

On May 26, 2014, the Dighton (MA) Fire Department Memorial took place at Station #2 in North Dighton. Kyle Medeiros’ (whose father is Firefighter Thomas Medeiros - President of the Dighton Permanent Firefighters Association, Local 4332) Eagle Scout service project was to create and add to the current firefighter memorial on Chase Street. The project included the installation of three new flag poles and flags, an engraved brick walkway, a new chain link fence, removal of two large and decaying pine trees, installation of a new property sign, putting down both bark and stone mulch, installation of solar powered flagpole lights, defining the memorial area with black fence post with black vinyl-coated chain and reseeding the grass area.

- Fire News photos by Liz Feitelberg

Page 32, Fire News, September 2014

FireNews.com

Leominster Gets FEMA Grant

On June 23, 2014, U.S. Representative Jim McGovern and FEMA announced an approval of an $850,000 grant to the Leominster Fire Department for a new ladder truck. The city will match the grant with 10 percent of the funding bringing the total to $950,000.

The Grant was written by the city’s Grant Administrator Wendy Wiiks. The bill to create the Assistance to Firefighters Grant was passed

by Congress after the Worcester Cold Storage Fire on December 3, 1999.

FEMA received about 10,000 applications for funding this year, but will give out only 100-or-so for fire trucks according to David Parr, a

fire program specialist from FEMA. Leominster was the first in New England and only 43 have been given out so far. Leominster has over 100 manufacturing plants and 1.5 million square feet of commercial space. Forty-five percent of the city’s housing stock is multifamily homes.

The truck will have to be “spec’d” out and will go out for bid. The turnaround time once the bids are in will be about one year. This truck will replace Ladder 1 built in 2003 which will replace Ladder 2, a 1987 Maxim tractor-drawn tiller.

- Fire News photo by SmokeShowingPhotography.com

Worcester Firefighter’s 5K Walk/Run

Boston Sparks Association Receives Donation

Two firefighters - one (left) from Barre (MA) and one from Springfield walk the Worcester Firefighter's 5K Walk/Run in full turnout gear.

- Fire News photo by SmokeShowingPhotography.com

The new Rehab A-11, a 2014 Chevy Tahoe, which will be used by the Boston Sparks Association for rehab services for all of Metro Boston police and fire.

- Fire News photo by Tim Gorman

FireNews.com

Fire News, September 2014, Page 33

Rehoboth Station Renamed for Firefighter Marshall

Rehoboth (MA) firefighters paid tribute to a fallen colleague at a station renaming ceremony on July 13, 2014. In November 2010, Firefighter Kenneth Marshall, Jr., was behind the wheel of a fire engine just leaving the firehouse when he suffered a fatal heart attack. Now, Rehoboth Fire Station Two, which family described as his second home, has been renamed in his honor.

- Fire News photos by Liz Feitelberg

Page 34, Fire News, September 2014

Obituary

Hopkinton FD’s Bartlett Passes

Dick Bartlett, 71, of Hopkinton, passed away on June 17, 2014. Dick was a Hopkinton Firefighter and was one of the first two permanent firefighters in Hopkinton. He retired as a Lieutenant. Bartlett later worked at E.J. Murphy in Woodville for many years. Dick had a passion for fire photography and was a contributor to many media outlets including Fire News. He was the official photographer for the Hopkinton and Ashland Fire Departments, assisting with fire investigations and many special events.

-Fire News photos by Doug Dow

FireNews.com

Page 36, Fire News, September 2014

FireNews.com

Up Close & Personal

Providence (RI) Engine 9 firefighter after a fire that was started by a heat gun on June 2, 2014, on Fruit Hill Avenue.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

Firefighters responded to a working structure fire in Manchester (CT) on July 7, 2014, on High Street. Units arrived to find light smoke showing with the fire starting to roll around the kitchen.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

A lucky dog being rehabbed with a little bit of oxygen and some drinking water courtesy of MedStar Ambulance.

- Fire News photo by Alan Brackett

Firefighters responding to a fire that ripped through an apartment in a 17-story highrise on June 11, 2014.

- Fire News photo by Glenn Duda

East Providence firefighters cooling down after an apartment fire on Evergreen Avenue on May 31, 2014.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

Captain Mike Nigro and his crew from Everett Engine 2.

- Fire News photo by Tim Gorman

Revere firefighters responded to a two-alarm fire on Walnut Street on July 14, 2014. - Fire News photo by Tim Gorman

FireNews.com

Fire News, September 2014, Page 37

Up Close & Personal

Manchester firefighter responding to a fire on New State Road on June 24, 2014.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

Leominster Firefighter John Williams mans a 1-3/4 line at a porch fire on July 5, 2014.

- Fire News photo by SmokeShowingPhotography.com

Stow Fire Chief Joe Landry at four-alarmer in Stow.

- Fire News photo by Douglas Dow

Page 38, Fire News, September 2014

FireNews.com

FIRE CHAPLAINS TO GATHER IN ANNAPOLIS

The Federation of Fire Chaplains will be meeting in Annapolis, Maryland for their annual conference October 19-23, 2014 at the Doubletree Hotel on the west side of Annapolis.

The conference theme is “A Gathering of Gems”, a reference to the Chaplains in attendance, and the training, inforAs a fundraiser, the Federation has mation, and contacts they will gather.

The conference will begin with a “Tired Travelers” reception both a silent and live auction. Each Chaplain will bring items from their department, fire related items, or Chaplain related items. For Sunday evening. The Conference will formally begin Monday those that were unsuccessful in the Silent Auction there will morning with an opening ceremony, then move quickly be a live auction Wednesday evening at the close of the into general session. That afternoon a brief trip to Ft. Founders Banquet. The Chaplains are also encourMcHenry to visit the site of the inspiration for our aged to bring patches representing their Fire National Anthem; it will be followed by a visit to Departments to trade with each other as mementos one of Anne Arundel Count's Volunteer Fire of friendships and the conference experience.

Stations. The sightseeing and dinner at the fire In addition to the conference, the Federation station will provide the Chaplains with a great of Fire Chaplains will be offering five pre-conopportunity to network and make contacts, ference classes. Two, three day CISM classes: because Tuesday morning the conference really Individual/Peer and Group; Pastoral Crisis takes off. Tuesday and Wednesday will be nonIntervention 1 and 2. In addition there will be stop training sessions followed on Tuesday three, two day classes: Essentials of Fire evening by the annual Memorial Service and Chaplaincy, Death Notifications, and Keeping Wednesday evening with the Annual Founders Chaplains Fired Up. Banquet. Thursday concludes the conference with a If you would like more information you will want to presentation by the host of next year’s conference and visit the Federation of Fire Chaplains website at the annual business meeting. www.firechaplains.org.

Worcester Fire Training

Worcester firefighters usually rely on an extensive network of fire hydrants for their suppression needs, however at this recent training exercise, the members of Engines 8 and 11 practiced drafting.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

FireNews.com

Fire News, September 2014, Page 39

SMEAL FIRE APPARATUS CO. ACQUIRES LTI AERIAL ASSETS Smeal Offers Largest Selection of Steel Aerial Apparatus Models to the Fire Service

Smeal Fire Apparatus Co. announced today that is has acquired the assets of LTI, including LTI ladders, platforms and tractor-drawn aerials, Squrt® and TeleSqurt® boom-ladders and Snorkel® articulating aerial platforms. This acquisition enhances Smeal’s product offering to the fire service, adding an extensive line of aerial apparatus to the company’s already expansive line of industry-leading steel aerial ladders, platforms, and tillers.

With the addition of LTI aerials, Smeal now offers the largest selection of aerial models available to the fire service.

“LTI has an outstanding reputation in aerial apparatus dating back to decades and decades, but it’s the exceptional reliability, safety and design features of their current products which make them an outstanding addition to the Smeal aerial product offering. This acquisition provides our customers with more choices, and it provides additional opportunities for us to serve urban aerial customers who are looking for the reliability, performance and packaging of the LTI, Squrt, TeleSqurt and Snorkel lines,” said Mark Huber, Smeal’s president.

Expanded Aftermarket Support For Customers

“Our first priority is to support the many fire departments that have LTI, Squrt, Telesqurt and Snorkel aerials in their fleets today. Now, Smeal has brought these products into our company for the long term,” explained Huber. “As a result, we understand the need to quickly provide parts and service support for these customers. We will be supporting them through an experienced aftermarket team and comprehensive parts support program with local service available through Smeal’s nationwide network of dealers.”

As part of the acquisition, Smeal acquired the technical data files for units sold previously to help ensure continuity of service LTI, Telesqurt, Squrt and Snorkel customers.

Revitalizing The Product Line

The newly acquired products will be integrated into the Smeal product line, and available on Smeal S450 and S600 chassis, and on Spartan custom fire chassis. The models include: • LTI HD & XD 105' Rear-Mount Ladders - Four-section steel ladders with 500 and 750 lbs tip load ratings (dry) respectively • LTI MetroStik 75' Rear-Mount Ladder - This aerial is designed for metropolitan departments who need aerial capability in a compact package • LTI 100' Rear-Mount Platform • LTI 93' and 100' Mid-Mount Platforms • LTI Tractor Drawn Aerial, 100' and 105' - The mainstay of many large, urban departments, LTI tillers are designed to provide a short wheelbase, maneuverability for tight city streets, and ladders with wide stepping surfaces.

• Telesqurt Boom-Ladder - This telescoping design provides elevated master stream and ladder operational capabilities within a short wheelbase apparatus that handles like a pumper. Available in 50', 65' and 75' lengths.

• Squrt Boom - This 54' articulating boom reaches where you need it to while keeping the first-response capability of a traditional pumper design.

• Snorkel Articulating Platform - This two-section, articulating platform provides “up and over” capability for roof access and fire suppression, as well as the ability to move around wires and other obstructions.

Smeal plans to invest the engineering resources necessary to bring selected technological improvements to the new additions. In particular, the company will update the Squrt and Telesqurt boom-ladders and Snorkel articulating platform to full NFPA compliance, as customer interest demands, as well as consider select enhancements for the platform and ladder designs.

CLASSIFIEDAds

GET RESULTS. TO ADVERTISE, CALL 631-776-0500

EXT. 220

Terry Farrell FireFighters Fund “Surplus Equipment Program” has assisted fire departments throughout upper New York State with much needed turnout gear, hoses, tools and even several vehicles. All of this is possible through the generous support of Long Island Fire Departments.

We now need the help of volunteers to assist us with • Equipment deliveries • Drive our vehicles in parades • Man our booths at Fire Dept. tournaments, festivals & functions • Assist with the collection of gear from donating department No one is paid in our organization but the feeling of helping firefighters who receive our donations and assistance and the gratitude they show to us is payment enough.

To Volunteer of for more information about our fund please go to our website terryfarrellfund.org.

Or email terryfund@terryfund.org Thank You, Brian Farrell

Terry Farrell FireFighters Fund

NaplesFlorida

Vacation home, monthly rental avail. 3bdrm, 2bth, LV/DR/EIK, lush private property.

Ask about special fireman discount

see:

www.vrbo.com/103000

or call 516-732-5691

Firefighters • EMS • Police Gifts T-Shirts Decals Rubber Ducks Infant and Youth items and much, much more! www.FireandRescueStore.com div. Larry Fox & Co.,Ltd.