Fire news new england 05 14

VOLUME 2, NO. 3

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Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Since 1973 MAY 2014

– Fire News photos by Rob Reardon

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Fire News, May 2014, Page 3

In this issue...

Close Call for 2 Woonsocket FFs A nozzle man and back-up from Engine 3 fell through the first floor about 10 feet into the apartment while fighting this blaze.

See story page 6

CT Companies Battle Midday House Fire Thompson fire companies were turned out for a reported structure fire on Cortis Road.

See story page 8

3-Alarm Destroys Cohasset Antique Shop Cohasset Fire Department companies arrived to find a 2-1/2 story wood framed commercial building ablaze.

See story page 12

Wind Whipped Fire Guts Charlton Home Charlton firefighters responding to a garage fire on A.F. Putnam Road quickly find themselves in an uphill battle.

See story page 18

Boston FD Mourns 2 Line of Duty Deaths Fire News coverage of this tragic event and the memorials that followed.

See story pages 28-31

Showing Support for One of Their Own Leominster firefighters shaved their heads in support of Danielle Lefebvre who has been diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

See story page 47

PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 Obituaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 42 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pages 48 & 49 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 49 Up Close and Personal . . . . . . . .pages 50 & 51

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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, MIKE MCGONEGAL, CHARLIE MCGRATH, KEITH MURATORI, RICK NOHL, BILL NOONAN, PETER OSTROSKEY JR., REG PATCHELL, JIM PERUTA, GLENN PRESTON, ROB REARDON, 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

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Page 4, Fire News, May 2014

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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor According to the CFSI website, the White House released its 2015 budget proposal, and recommended cuts to key fire service programs.

The $3.9 trillion budget, which is an estimated $250 billion increase over the 2014 levels, contains $38.2 billion for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Sound good? Not really, because this is a decrease of approximately $1 billion from the Fiscal Year 2014.

The Assistance to Firefighters (FIRE) and the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant programs would be reduced by $10 million. I urge you to visit CFSI.org and read about the rest of the cuts that ultimately affect funding to the Volunteer Fire Assistance Program. Thanks to people like Bill Webb, CFSI's Executive Director, CFSI will begin to work with the other national fire service organizations and our friends in government who support the fire service to shield the programs that affect us from budget cuts in 2015. Fortunately, Congress, the Senate and the House Appropriations Committees have supported us in the past. We ask that they continue to do so.

Recently, the House approved up to $1 billion in loan guarantees for the Ukraine, backing President Obama's request to help the new government. It is nice to support a cause and to help those in need if

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Budget Cuts Are Never Good you can afford to do so. With impending cuts to fire service programs, I think we have to rethink where the money to help others is coming from. Many we are still suffering from the after effects of Hurricane Sandy and the wildfires throughout our country. How does the government even think about cutting funds to the fire service when people in our own communities have not recovered from major events that have had such devastating results?

I would like to take the time to thanks the Congressional Fire Services Institute, their staff and advisory committee for keeping a watchful eye on the potential cuts that directly have an impact on the fire service and homeland security. Remember to support their mission, which is to, “Educate members of Congress about the fire service so that first responders do not stand alone.” Visit their website at www.CFSI.org and read what they are doing to help you, the first responder.

One last reminder: the CFSI Dinner and Seminar is on April 30 and May 1, 2014. Someone from your department should think about attending this event.

-Dennis

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

Page 6, Fire News, May 2014

Woonsocket (RI) Firefighters responded to Monty Avenue on March 15, 2014 for a dwelling fire. Engine 1 arrived to find heavy fire showing from the first floor on Sides B and C of a two-story, wood balloon-framed apartment house. The Chief ordered a second alarm bringing all city companies to the scene. Firefighters entered from the Side-B entrance and began an aggressive interior attack.

The nozzle man from Engine 3 fell through the first floor about 10 feet into the apartment. The back-up man was attempting a rescue, when all of a sudden he fell through as well. Both members plunged

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into the cellar stopping themselves by their armpits. The men were able to self rescue prior to a FAST unit's assistance. A third alarm was struck bringing mutual aid into the scene and to cover the city's firehouses. Heavy fire was now emitting from the roof, which eventually collapsed into the second floor. The fire marshal has determined the cause as suspicious. A 30-year old was taken into custody on one count of domestic first-degree arson. The two firefighters were transported to a local hospital and were treated and released.

- Fire News photos by Ken LaBelle

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Fire News, May 2014, Page 7

Bellingham Chimney Blaze

In Bellingham (MA), a chimney fire extended to the Charlie/Delta extended into a couple of bays in the exterior walls and adjacent corner of a 1-1/2 story Cape Cod style house on the evening of rafters. The room of origin received extensive damage due to overMarch 7, 2014. The occupants noticed a heavy smoke condition in hauling. Two handlines were used to bring this fire under control.

- Fire News photos by Ken LaBelle the house after stoking the fireplace on a frigid night. The fire

Page 8, Fire News, May 2014

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CT Companies Battle Midday House Fire

On March 18, 2014, Thompson (CT) fire companies were turned out for a reported structure fire on Cortis Road. No one was home at the time, but several pets perished as a result of the fire. Water supply was an early issue in the firefight, with no hydrants in the area. Tankers from several mutual aid fire departments quickly solidified the water supply problem.

Firefighters from the Community Fire Company, Quinebaug, Dudley (MA), Webster (MA), East Putnam, Muddy Brook, and Attawagan operated at the scene.

- Fire News photos by Alan Brackett

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Fire News, May 2014, Page 9

Fire Heavily Damages Commercial Building in Cranston

On the night of February 28, 2014, Cranston Fire Alarm received a single call reporting an alarm sounding and smell of smoke coming from a salon on Bald Hill Road. Engines 5, 4 and 2, Ladders 2 and 3, Special Hazards, Rescue 4 and Car 3 responded to the alarm. On arrival at the front of the building, Engine 5 reported nothing showing and that they were investigating. Upon entering the building, Engine 5 reported a smoke condition, while at the same time, Engine 4 arrived in the rear and reported heavy smoke showing.

Companies forced entry into the salon and found heavy smoke banked down to the floor level. Firefighters from 3 engine companies and the Special Hazards were all at zero visibility and high heat but no visible fire. Engine 2 eventually found the fire in a room and was able to knock the fire down. The fire was contained to the building of origin but smoke had spread to the adjoining businesses.

- Fire News photo by Tom Carmody

Page 10, Fire News, May 2014

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Working Fire in New Britain CT

Cold Fight in Westbury

New Britain (CT) responded to a working fire on Greenwood Street on March 26, 2014.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

Recently, Waterbury Fire was dispatched for a confirmed structure fire in a residential dwelling on Highland Avenue. Companies had an initial water supply problem with an unusable hydrant. As crews stretched back to the next hydrants north and south of the fire, the fire was making its way into the attic space. With the fire quickly advancing, command called for a second alarm as the companies stretched multiple handlines and set up the ladder truck to open the roof. They would fight the fire for better than an hour in below freezing temperatures before it was knocked down.

- Fire News photo by Kevin Czarzasty

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Fire News, May 2014, Page 11

3-Alarmer in Bourne

Recently, Bourne (MA) firefighters responded to a three-alarm fire which required a tanker task force to the scene.

- Fire News photo by Rob Reardon

Page 12, Fire News, May 2014

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3-Alarm Destroys Cohasset Antique Shop

On February 12, 2014, the Cohasset Fire Department responded to Jerusalem Road, at Hull Street (Route-228), for a reported building fire. Companies arrived to find fire in a 2-1/2 story wood framed commercial building. The heavy fire was in the rear of the building on the first floor of the antique shop.

Firefighters attempted an aggressive interior attack, but were hampered by the store’s contents. By the time firefighters were able to get to the seat of the fire, it had extended up to the second floor and to the attic. Second and third alarms were struck shortly thereafter, and companies pulled out and began setting up for a defensive attack. Scituate and Cohasset ladder companies set up ladder pipes, as firefighters pulled large handlines to each side of the burning building. The roof eventually collapsed into the structure. The towns of Hull, Scituate, Norwell, Rockland and Hingham battled the blaze on Jerusalem Road along side Cohasset. Other surrounding towns covered their fire stations.

- Fire News photos by Pat Travers and Bill Noonan

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Page 14, Fire News, May 2014

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14 Displaced in Providence Fire

Firefighters responded to Dabol Street in Providence on February 9, 2014, and found heavy fire conditions throughout a three-story wood frame. Crews were evacuated after an initial interior attack. Red Cross was called for 14 displaced residents.

- Fire News photo by Tim Delaney

Derby Douses Fire

On March 15, 2014, the Derby Fire Department was dispatched to Mount Pleasant Street for a structure fire. First units on scene found a single family residence with heavy smoke and fire showing from the basement on the D-side. The fire was extending to the upper floors as members made an aggressive push which quickly knocked the fire down. Shelton was also called for mutual aid to the scene of the fire.

- Fire News photo by Keith Muratori

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Fire News, May 2014, Page 15

Civilian Injured in New Haven Blaze

Recently, New Haven Firefighters scrambled to stretch several master streams following the explosion of a one-story building on Farren Avenue. The resulting fire quickly spread to the adjacent exposure building, a large and occupied three-story wood frame building that was no more than 10-feet away. Upon hearing the blast, neighbors raced to the aid of a woman who was buried in the

rubble and calling for help. “I heard her screaming so me and some other guy ran over and pulled her away from the fire,” said a woman who did not wish to be identified. She also said, “She was burned real bad and I could smell gas.”

- Fire News photo by Dorrance (Doc) Johnson

Page 16, Fire News, May 2014

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Coventry, RI, Man Killed by Fire

On the night of March 3, 2014 Coventry firefighters from the Anthony District, Central Coventry and Hopkins Hill responded to the 200 block of Knotty Oak Road for a house fire. The Coventry PD arrived first and relayed to firefighters that the building was fully involved. Anthony Chief 1 arrived first and reported that the building was well involved and that one person was still inside. An aggressive attack was immediately commenced and the occupant

was located in short order. Unfortunately he had succumbed to his injuries and was not transported. Firefighters then concentrated on extinguishing the fire and had the fire knocked down within 30 minutes. Officials from the Coventry Fire Prevention Bureau as well as members of the RI Fire Marshal's Office are investigated the cause of the fire.

- Fire News photo by Tom Carmody

Brush Fires Get Early Start Duxbury Deputy Chief West in command at an early season two acre brush fire.

- Fire News photo by Rob Reardon

Basement Blaze in Tolland

Tolland (CT) firefighters responded to a working fire on Tolland Stage Road on February 9, 2014. The fire started in the basement and extended up. Mutual aid from Crystal, Ellington, Vernon and West Stafford assisted at the scene.

- Fire News photos by Patrick Dooley

Page 18, Fire News, May 2014

On March 26, 2014, Charlton firefighters responded to a reported garage fire on A.F. Putnam Road. The address is located in the extreme southeast corner of the town, and it took responding firefighters several minutes to arrive. First arriving Charlton Assistant Chief Curt Meskus knew the department had an uphill battle on their hands. A two stall garage was fully involved in fire, and a 30 mph wind was extending flames to the attached two-story ranch home. There were two cars parked inside the burning garage.

The three hurdles Charlton firefighters had to contend with were the wind, the water supply, and the lack of manpower. The wind was a definite contributory factor in the fire spreading from the garage to the dwelling. First due Charlton jakes did the best they could trying to knock down the fire in the garage and initiate an aggressive interior attack of the fire that had already entered the residence. Assistant Chief Meskus immediately called for mutual aid tankers to respond to the scene due to the fact that the fire’s location was outside of the hydrant

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district. He and Fire Chief Charles Cloutier eventually struck three alarms to bring adequate resources of water supply and manpower to the scene of the blaze. Water supply was managed through a tanker shuttle operation.

The wind-driven fire was pushed through the house with amazing speed, and took full control, finally burning its way through the roof.

The Charlton FD Aerialscope was set up in front of the dwelling and finally knocked down most of the visible fire. When the Aerialscope’s master stream was shut down, crews were allowed to return inside to start overhaul operations and chase down hot spots. The fire was brought under control in about an hour’s time, but Charlton firefighters remained on scene for several hours watching for rekindle.

No injuries were reported. At the peak of the firefight, Charlton jakes were assisted on scene by members of the Dudley, Oxford, and Auburn fire departments.

- Fire News photos by Alan Brackett and Paul Shea

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Boston FD Responds to Warren Street Blaze

Boston 7 at a Warren Street on March 14, 2014.

- Fire News photo by Tim Gorman

Fire News, May 2014, Page 19

Danielson Battles Fire in Vacant Building

On February 18, 2014, firefighters from eight Connecticut fire departments responded to a fire in a vacant two-family dwelling located on Winter Street in the Town of Danielson. The fire appeared to have started on the first floor and extended into the second, but the fire was quickly knocked down by first-due Danielson firefighters. The building sustained moderate damage, but was deemed “salvageable� by Danielson Fire Chief Gerry Marcheterre. Departments that assisted Danielson firefighters at the scene were from Williamsville, South Killingly, Dayville, Attawaugan, East Brooklyn, Moosup and Central Village.

- Fire News photo by Alan Brackett

Page 20, Fire News, May 2014

Worcester Knocks Out Commercial Blaze

Worcester Fire responded to Harding Street on March 5, 2014, to find smoke showing from a one- and -two-story commercial building home to a glass company. A second alarm was transmitted for manpower, as companies had some difficulty finding the seat of the fire that had made its way between a double roof. The fire briefly burned through an area of the roof in the rear before being knocked down.

- Fire News photos by Doug Dow and Paul Shea

Second Alarm in Hartford

On March 23, 2014, Hartford (CT), Engine 14 and Ladder 4 had a short response to Kent Street in the city's north end. On arrival the companies struck a second alarm for fire showing from the top floor of a three-floor wood frame. Firefighters quickly knocked down the fire and returned to service.

- Fire News photos by Jim Peruta and Patrick Dooley

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Fire News, May 2014, Page 21

11 Displaced in Central Falls Fire

Central Falls (RI) firefighters arrived on Foundry Street to heavy smoke showing from the second and third floors of a three-story apartment house on March 6, 2014. The fire appeared to have begun in the exterior side-A walls on the second floor and extended upwards to the gable end. The OIC requested a second alarm as he

arrived bring in mutual aid from Cumberland, Lincoln and Pawtucket. The coordinated attack kept the fire’s extension limited to just areas of origin. No injuries were reported. Eleven occupants were displaced.

- Fire News photos by Ken LaBelle and Tom Carmody

Page 22, Fire News, May 2014

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Snowy Second Alarm in Hingham On the snowy afternoon of February 15, 2014, the Hingham Fire Department responded to a reported house fire on Towerbrook Road. Companies arrived to find heavy fire showing from the rear of a raised ranch style, occupied dwelling. Crews made an aggressive interior attack to the fire located on a three season porch on the "C" side. Due to heavy fire conditions, a second alarm was requested, bringing mutual aid companies from Norwell and Rockland to the scene. Crews opened the roof, and had several handlines run around the building. Crews were able to knock down the fire rather quickly. Crews were hampered not only by cold temperatures, but by strong winds and heavy snowfall at the time of the blaze.

- Fire News photo by Pat Travers

Fire Guts Southbridge Apartment On February 8, 2014, Southbridge firefighters responded to a reported fire in an occupied apartment located in a one-story concrete block building.

The fire did threaten to extend to the attached twostall garage and a nearby dwelling. Three alarms were eventually struck, recalling all off duty Southbridge firefighters as well as a small on-call force. The occupants of the apartment were not reportedly injured, but a cat was rescued and removed by firefighters. A Southbridge jake could be seen administering oxygen to the cat, who seemed to respond well.

- Fire News photo by Alan Brackett

Nice Save in Lincoln Lincoln (RI) firefighters from Lincoln Stations 3, 4, 5, and Rescue 4, responded to Old Louisquisset Pike on March 9, 2014, for a reported structure fire.

Station 3 arrived to find heavy smoke showing from the rear of an occupied single-story ranch style house. Heavy fire was venting from the C-side bulkhead doorway to the basement. The fire was quickly contained using two attack lines with no vertical extension. One occupant was transported to a local ER for minor burns.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

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Fire News, May 2014, Page 23

Colchester Home Heavily Damaged

by Fire

Colchester Fire was dispatched to 8 Colchester Commons on March water supply and a FAST team. Crews knocked down the main 28, 2014, for a possible house fire with people trapped. First due body of fire then focused on the spot fires. The occupants were not reported heavy fire from the “B� side with a garage involved injured. The fire is under investigation.

- Fire News photos by Robert Ladd and Patrick Dooley extending into the dwelling. Command added several tankers for

Page 24, Fire News, May 2014

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Power Line KOs Apparatus As Naugatuck Chief Ken Hanks was on his way to investigate a large column of smoke, a box alarm was transmitted for a mobile home fire on Lewis Street. The chief was first on scene to find a well involved mobile home which was spreading to the one next door. The firefighters were hampered when a power line in the park was burned through dropping the live wire on the apparatus which rendered it unusable. Mutual aid from the Oxford, Beacon Falls, and Prospect volunteers provided manpower and station coverage for the borough. With the mobile homes a total loss, the Red Cross was summoned to assist in finding shelter for the residents.

- Fire News photo by Kevin Czarzasty

Long Driveway Hampers Firefighters Oswegatchie FD (Waterford) CT responded to a working fire on Josan Dr. on Sunday February 9, 2014. Companies had a fully involved single family dwelling. In photo to right, companies are in overhaul mode.

- Fire News photo by Tim Delaney

Charlton Firefighters Battle Dwelling Fire On March 15, 2014, Charlton firefighters responded to a fire in a small trailer home on Route 20. The structure was fully involved on the arrival of the first-due Charlton jakes, but they made quick work of the fire. No occupants were at home at the time. Firefighters from Southbridge assisted at the scene. One firefighter sustained minor injuries in a fall, but was not hospitalized.

- Fire News photo by Alan Brackett

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Fire News, May 2014, Page 25

Garage Fully Involved Upon Arrival At approximately 0740 on February 13, 2014, Gales Ferry and Ledyard Fire were dispatched to Sleepy Hollow Road for a garage fire. Due to GFFD being on an EMS call, Subase Fire was started for an extra engine and FAST. R-2 arrived to find the garage fully involved with extension to a car. N-62 arrived layed-in from the hydrant, and firefighters from Subase and Gales Ferry placed several lines and a deck gun in service. The main body of the fire was knocked down in a short time. Crews worked several hot spots until the incident was under control.

- Fire News photo by Robert Ladd

Stonington and Groton Respond by Sea Fire Departments from Stonington and Groton areas responded via boats on March 21, 2014 to Ram Island for smoke coming from a 3000 square foot house around 1530. Before arrival heavy fire was visible from the shore. Boats from several departments responded with firefighters and equipment, Mystic's Marine 1 was the largest

and could pump 2000 gpm. Due to the long response and the navigation channel, by the time of arrival the fire was well ahead of them. Crews worked to try to stop the fire but were not able and the home was a total loss. The Fire Marshal investigated the cause.

- Fire News photo by Ben Ragsdale, story by Robert Ladd

Page 28, Fire News, May 2014

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- Fire News photos by SmokeShowingPhotography.com and Jeffrey Hastings

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Fire News, May 2014, Page 29

10,000+ Honor Lt. Walsh and FF Kennedy

- Fire News photos by Rob Reardon, Rick Nohl, Bill Noonan, and Jeffrey Hastings

Page 30, Fire News, May 2014

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LODD

Lieutenant Edward Walsh, Engine 33

- Fire News photo by Rob Reardon, Rick Nohl, Jeffrey Hastings, and Bill Noonan

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Fire News, May 2014, Page 31

LODD

Firefighter Michael Kennedy, Ladder 15

- Fire News photo by Rob Reardon, Rick Nohl, and Bill Noonan

Page 32, Fire News, May 2014

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House Goes in Winsted

On March 3, 2014, Winsted volunteers were dispatched to Prospect Street for a structure fire. Police reported that the first floor was fully involved and heavy smoke was showing from the second story.

With the sole occupant and his dog out, fire crews stretched in supply lines from both ends of the street and advanced lines for an interior attack. With the conditions rapidly deteriorating all firefighters were ordered out and an exterior handline and ladder tower

attack was taken up. Though the fire was under control in 45 minutes the dwelling was damaged beyond occupancy. The Red Cross was called to assist the occupant in finding shelter. Winsted fire crews were assisted by manpower and station coverage by Norfolk, New Hartford, Colebrook volunteers.

- Fire News photo by Kevin Czarzasty

New Haven Condo Fire

On February 9, 2014, New Haven firefighters battled the elements unit. A quick attack was able to bring the fire under control before and fire at the Henry Street condo complex. First arriving compa- it spread to the adjoining units and cockloft.

- Fire News photo by Glenn Duda nies had heavy smoke and fire showing from the first floor M/O/R

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Fire News, May 2014, Page 33

Residents Displaced by Providence Fire

On the cold afternoon of March 3, 2014, Providence Fire Alarm Operators began receiving calls reporting a house fire on Laurel Hill Avenue. Responding from their firehouse a few blocks away, Engine 6 arrived to find heavy fire showing from the top floor of an occupied three-decker. Upon hearing Engine 6’s size up, Division 1 immediately requested an extra engine and truck above the Code Red response. All hands went right to work stretching lines and

performing searches, as there were reports that there were people still trapped inside. All of the searches were negative and the residents soon checked in with Command, notifying him that everyone was accounted for. Firefighters had the fire knocked down within 15 minutes and brought under control soon thereafter. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

- Fire News photo by Tom Carmody

Page 34, Fire News, May 2014

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Mobile Home Burns in Burrilville A fast moving fire destroyed a mobile home on Oak Terrace and displaced four residents on March 14, 2014 in Burrillville (RI). Reportedly, a teenager was awakened by the fire and alerted family members. Firefighters arrived to find heavy overlapping fire on side A of the mobile home.

Command requested a second alarm cover and work at the scene. Attack lines were stretched from the first-due pump and rapidly knocked back the intense flames. The cause of the fire was pinpointed to a woodstove.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

Fireplace Fire in Bolton Bolton (CT) responded to Clark Road on February 12, 2014 for a structure fire. Members found fire in the wall behind the brickwork of a fireplace. The walls were opened and the fireplace was taken apart so the fire could be extinguished. Automatic mutual aid from Andover, Hebron and Manchester 8th district assisted at the scene.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

Valentine’s Day Fire in Whitman On February 14, 2014, the Whitman (MA) Fire Department received a call reporting a chimney fire on Pleasant Street. Engine-2, Ladder-1 and Car-3 responded. Abington Engine-3 responded on the line box.

Companies arrived to find a chimney fire in a two-story wood framed occupied dwelling. The fire appeared to be contained to the fireplace on the first floor. Crews brought out burnt materials to the front yard and wet them down with a water can. Ladder-1’s stick stretched to the roof as firefighters checked the top of the chimney for any signs of internal fire. Nothing was found. A thermal image camera was brought inside to check the walls. Crews utilized a PPV from Abington Engine-3. Whitman Engine-1 also responded to the scene to assist.

- Fire News photo by Pat Travers

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Fire News, May 2014, Page 35

Speedy Knockdown in Norwich

Tankers Needed in Glastonbury

On February 1, 2014, Norwich Fire was dispatched to Boswell Avenue, for a reported house fire. Engine 2 arrived to find fire showing from first floor. Crews went to work on the fire and it was under control in a few minutes. - Fire News photo by Robert Ladd

Glastonbury (CT) firefighters responded to a working fire on March 8, 2014. Mutual aid from Portland and Hebron assisted with their tankers.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

Page 36, Fire News, May 2014

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One FF Injured at Bridgeport Fire On February 9, 2014, the Bridgeport Fire Department was dispatched to Hancock Avenue for a reported vacant house on fire. First in units confirmed heavy fire showing from the second and third floors of a vacant three-story wood structure with exposures on the B and D sides; members removed a woman from one of the exposure buildings. The fire melted siding on the exposures, but was stopped before fire could damage the inside of any of the adjacent homes. One firefighter sustained minor injuries after slipping out of Tower Ladder 5’s bucket into a nearby tree. The fire was investigated for arson after a dog from the State Fire Marshal’s Office sniffed out an accelerant at the scene.

- Fire News photo by Keith Muratori

Busy Blaze in Manchester A fire on March 9, 2014, in the 8th District FD (Manchester, CT), sent crews to a structure fire in an apartment building on Buckland Street. A second alarm was struck as companies were still blocks away due to the smoke condition they drove through. Companies arrived to find fire venting out the rear of a three-story (two in front, three in the rear) wood frame apartment building with people evacuating. Mutual aid for another ladder company was requested on arrival. Once the tower ladder was put to work the fire was knocked down quickly. MFRE Truck 2, Engine 5, Car 22 and Vernon ET-241 assisted at the scene with other departments covering the stations.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

Thanks for the Help - Not Recently, Oxford Volunteers were toned for a structure fire on Thorson Road. The chief arrived to find a large wood frame dwelling with heavy fire showing on all floors. It was later determined that the occupants had a heating issue so were sleeping in front of an unscreened fire place when the bedding they were using caught fire.

Instead of first calling 911 they attempted to extinguish the fire with a small fire extinguisher and snow from outside which delayed the fire department notification and let the fire get a major head start. Beacon Falls, Southbury, and Stevenson were called to assist in getting a water supply. Though companies would knock down the main body of fire in about an hour the home was a total loss.

- Fire News photo by Kevin Czarzasty

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Fire News, May 2014, Page 37

Unoccupied Blue Hills Blaze Home in Webster Burns

On March 16, 2014, Webster firefighters responded to a fire in a two-story wood frame dwelling located on Black Point Road. No one was at home at the time of the fire. Firefighters mounted an aggressive interior attack to quickly knock down the fire and open up plaster and lathe ceilings on the second floor. The fire appears to have started in or around a chimney and extended to the second floor and attic space. Webster jakes were assisted on scene by Dudley and Douglas firefighters.

- Fire News photo by Alan Brackett

On March 13, 2014, firefighters responded to a fire in Blue Hills (Bloomfield, CT) in a ranch style home on Park Avenue. Blue Hills FD was assisted by the Bloomfield Center, Windsor and East Granby at the scene.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

Page 38, Fire News, May 2014

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Sometimes Putting the Fire Out is the Easy Part On February 13, 2014, Boston fire companies were dispatched to a report of a truck fire on I-93 southbound. Engine 17 and Ladder 7 were dispatched southbound; Engine 20 and Ladder 6 were dispatched northbound. Engine 17 and Ladder 7 were the first due and confirmed that the fire was indeed on the southbound side in Dorchester and said they had a fully involved tractor and 51-foot trailer. Engine 17 ran out of water almost immediately with little effect on the fire. Engine 17 ordered Engine 20 to relocate to the industrial area on Conley Street below the fire. Engine 20 was ordered to pick up a hydrant and feed Engine 17 with several hundred feet of feeder line that Engine 17 lowered down.

Engine 16 was then dispatched to the scene by Car 7. Engine 16 responded against traffic north from Neponset Circle. Upon arrival, Engine 17 fed Engine 16 on I-93, and Engine 16 assisted with knocking down the fire.

- Fire News photo by John Hanley, submitted by Glenn Preston

Fire and Ice: Fire Wins On February 18, 2014, Leominster (MA) Engine 4 and Ladder 1 responded to an auto fire during a snow storm.

The auto was fully involved on arrival.

- Fire News photo by SmokeShowingPhotography.com

Webster Firefighters Quell Truck Fire On February 24, 2014, Webster firefighters responded to a pickup truck on fire that was situated precariously close to a multiple-family wood frame dwelling. Upon arrival, firefighters found a well-involved pickup truck in the rear driveway, severely threatening the exposed dwelling. Webster jakes quickly stretched 1-3/4 inch handline and knocked down the flames before they could cause damage to the building. There were no injuries, and the fire did not extend into the dwelling.

- Fire News photo by Alan Brackett

FireNews.com

Truck-Bus Accident in Lebanon

On February 12, 2014, the Lebanon Volunteer Fire Department responded to a call on Route 87 in Lebanon (CT) where a car crashed into a school bus which was parked on the side of the road.

The driver of the car was transported to a local hospital with minor injuries. The driver of the bus was not injured. Lebanon utilized their new rescue truck. After transport of the injured, Deputy Fire Chief Marc Elliot attached a winch to the front of the truck and pulled the damaged car out of the center of the road, opening one lane of traffic.

- Fire News photo by Marie Brennan

Six Injured in Charlton MVA

Six people were injured and transported to hospitals as a result of a vehicle collision in the Town of Charlton (MA).

- Fire News photo by Alan Brackett

Fire News, May 2014, Page 39

Page 40, Fire News, May 2014

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Leominster Responds to Shooting

When It Snows, It …

Leominster firefighters on scene of a shooting on March 11, 2014.

The victim was transported to Leominster Health Alliance and Lifeflight to UMass Trauma Center in Worcester.

- Fire News photo by SmokeShowingPhotography.com

Firefighters from Leominster (MA) Ladder 1 assisted at the school department to help clear a large amount of snow over the entrance way into the building.

- Fire News photo by SmokeShowingPhotography.com

Train vs. Car in Webster

Car Rolls in Hanson Crash

On February 20, 2014, a rental car’s faulty GPS directions were being blamed for a collision that took place on lower Main Street in Webster between an auto and a Providence and Worcester freight train. The driver of the car, was following the car’s GPS when he overshot the driveway to the business and realized he was actually on the train tracks and tried to back out. Due to recent heavy snows, he became mired. He saw a freight train approaching from and tried to alert the oncoming train but the car was struck head on. The train consisted of three locomotives and 24 rail cars, as well as three loads of plastic pellets. There were no environmental hazards from the collision, and no one was injured. Webster police, fire, and EMS responded to the morning accident as well as Massachusetts State Police and representatives of the Providence & Worcester Railroad.

- Fire News photo by Alan Brackett

On February 15, 2014, the Hanson (MA) Fire Department responded to the area of Elm Street, near Main Street, for a reported car on its side. Companies arrived to find a single vehicle accident with a car on the passenger side. The single occupant of the vehicle was still in the vehicle and was complaining of minor injuries. Crews were able to extricate the victim and he was transported to the South Shore Hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

- Fire News photo by Pat Travers

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Fire News, May 2014, Page 41

Ice Pros in Wethersfield

On February 9, 2014, Wethersfield (CT) firefighters practiced their ice rescue skills. There are many ponds and the Connecticut River within the department's coverage area and they have had an ice rescue program for over 25 years.

- Fire News photo by Jim Peruta

Plymouth Co. Tech Rescue Training

On February 10, 2014, the Plymouth (MA) County Technical Rescue Team held a training drill at the Kingston Fire Department Headquarters. Training included utilizing the Paratech strut systems for stabilizing unstable structures. Other members of the team utilized listening devices used to locate victims in the case of structural collapse. The listening devices are deployed in conjunction with special search cameras.

- Fire News photo by Pat Travers

Tot Saved by Civilian and Firefighters in Leominster

On March 9, 2014, a four-year-old boy was saved from serious injuries thanks to the quick thinking of a neighbor. Leominster firefighters arrived on scene and found the boy about 40 feet down an embankment. A neighbor threw down an extension cord for the child to hold on to until firefighters arrived, according to Deputy

Fire Chief Jeff Davis. Firefighters were able to employ some recently acquired equipment to lower a firefighter down to rescue the child. Davis said the child suffered no injuries and was returned to his home after the rescue.

- Fire News photos by SmokeShowingPhotography.com

Page 42, Fire News, May 2014

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Obituary

Rhode Island Mourns the Loss of Robert Mowry

Robert Earl Mowry, Sr., 99, served as the Fire Chief of the Primrose Fire Department (North Smithfield, RI) for 22 years, retiring in 1980. After retirement, he was a volunteer and member of the Board of Directors for many years. Robert was a member and for-

mer president of the Rhode Island Association of Fire Chiefs and a member of the New England Association of Fire Chiefs, Rhode Island Fire Marshals Association and the New England Association of Fire Marshals.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

Leominster’s Lt. Robert A. Sideleau, Engine 4, Group 3 Passes Robert “Bob” Sideleau served his country in the U.S. Marines during World War II from March 19, 1943 until December 15, 1945, first as a field radio operator, and then a high speed radio operator with a newly formed Signal Company, assisting pilots in their landings in the Pacific Theater. Bob was in the first wave to land on Guam during the invasion and capture of that island. He also made the beach landing on Iwo Jima B+1 Red Beach.

Upon his return to Leominster, he began his career with the Leominster Fire Department on March 7, 1950, when he was assigned as a call firefighter with Engine 3. On July 24, 1950, he again answered the call to serve his country, when he returned to the U.S. Marine Corps in Korea, in charge of the radio team for a 4.2 mortar outfit, seeing battle at the Chosin Reservoir, whereby those who participated in the 17-day battle were nicknamed the “The Chosin Few.” Upon his return from Korea in March 1951, he was reinstated to the call force, becoming a permanent firefighter on January 1, 1952. On October 18, 1957, he was injured while battling a fire at Harris’ Ice Cream, suffering from the inhalation of ammonia fumes. He was promoted to Lieutenant on April 23, 1963, and assigned to Group 2 Headquarters. He eventually transferred to Group 3 in 1970. On August

23, 1972, he was one of seven firefighters injured while battling a two-alarm fire in the warehouse of the C & T Trucking Company, and on February 15, 1973, during a three-alarm blaze that struck the Goguen Block, he received injuries to his chest and ribs when a pin connected to a deck gun broke, throwing him to the ground. Lt. Robert Sideleau retired May 16, 1984.

- Fire News photo by SmokeShowingPhotography.com

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Fire News, May 2014, Page 43

Fundraiser Benefits CT Burn Center On March 22, 2014, Bridgeport Firefighters Local 834 and the Bridgeport Hospital Foundation hosted United for Recovery, a fundraiser to benefit the Connecticut Burn Center. The event was held at Vazzano's Four Seasons in Stratford.

The Connecticut Burn Center is the only dedicated burn care facility in the State of Connecticut and has a suite where families can stay while their loved ones receive treatment. Speakers at the event included, but were not limited to, Senator Richard Blumenthal, Governor Dannel Malloy, Bridgeport Mayor Bill Finch, Bridgeport Fire Chief Brian Rooney, and burn survivor Dan Gentile.

- Fire News photo by Keith Muratori

New Chief for Sandwich FD Congratulations to Chief Bill Carrico recently appointed Chief of the Sandwich Fire Department. He is seen here at a three alarm fire in Bourne.

- Fire News photo by Rob Reardon

Showing Up for Tyler On March 6, 2014, Burrillville (RI) firefighters, police and military members gave six-year-old Tyler Seddon, who is battling cancer, a birthday he is never going to forget. Scores of vehicles and apparatus lined up for an estimated 15 miles to wish the young boy a Happy Birthday at the Wright's Farm Restaurant on Route 102. An estimated 800 to 1,000 people, mostly first-responders from Rhode Island, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Hampshire, Kentucky, Georgia and California, packed the restaurant, standing shoulder to shoulder. Tyler's mother recently posted his wish on Facebook and people shared it so often, it went viral. Tyler is fighting his second bout of acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

Tyler's battle with cancer and his love for firstresponders touched so many people they soon started posting on his Facebook page with hundreds of messages and videos.

- Fire News photos by Ken LaBelle

Page 44, Fire News, May 2014

There’s a New Chief - and Marshal - in Town

The swearing in ceremony for Hartford’s (CT) Chief, Carlos Huertas on March 21, 2014.

Roger Martin was also sworn in as the city’s new Fire Marshal.

- Fire News photos by Patrick Dooley

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Fitchburg Firefighters Graduate from Academy

(Left to right) Fitchburg firefighters Michael Smith, Hector Rodriquez, Chief of Department Kevin Roy, John Girouard and Andrew Bellizzi at their graduation from the Massachusetts Fire Academy. The class for both Leominster and Fitchburg is Class 209, which took place from January 21 to March 21, 2014.

- Fire News photo by SmokeShowingPhotography.com

Fire News, May 2014, Page 45

Leominster FF Graduates from MA Fire Academy

Leominster Firefighter Ben Brideau and Chief of Department Robert Sideleau II at the Massachusetts Fire Academy graduation.

Ben received his diploma after nine weeks in the academy.

- Fire News photo by SmokeShowingPhotography.com

Page 46, Fire News, May 2014

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2014 Worcester Saint Patrick’s Day Parade

Worcester fire contingent. - Fire News photo by Paul Shea

Worcester MA Fire and Police Face-off

Worcester, MA Fire and Police Guns and Hoses game prior to the Worcester Sharks game - Fire News photos by Paul Shea

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Fire News, May 2014, Page 47

Hartford Ladder 6 and Engine 1

- Fire News photo by Jim Peruta

Showing Support for One of Their Own

Danielle Lefebvre, daughter of firefighter Tony Lefebvre, was recently diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and the entire fire department saw it as an opportunity to rally around someone who is part of its extended family. The firefighters capped the rally with most members of the firehouse shaving their heads to show support for the 20-year old Leominster native.

“Once she was diagnosed, we knew her hair would fall out when she started treatment,” said Leominster Fire Chief Robert Sideleau II.

“When Tony decided to shave his head with his daughter, most of his firefighter brethren jumped on board immediately. Tony is always there for everyone, and it was nice to do this for him and his family.”

“We all know his daughter, and I’ve known his kids since day one,” added Robert Penning, a firefighter and President of the Leominster Fire Relief Association. “This was the least we could do for her. She’s got a long road ahead, but she’s a tough kid. We’re here for whatever she needs.”

- Fire News photos by SmokeShowingPhotography.com

Page 48, Fire News, May 2014

FireNews.com

INSTRUCTOR VIDEOS NOW AVAILABLE FOR FDIC 2014: Event to Kick-off with Hands-On Training (H.O.T.) Courses

Some 30,000 firefighters from around the world are expected to attend FDIC 2014 this spring at the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, making it the largest FDIC ever held in its 86-year history.

Held April 7-12, the six-day event will commence with an intense curriculum of Hands-On Training courses designed to teach skills, techniques and lessons learned in realtime scenarios, giving firefighters the opportunity to apply newly acquired knowledge to real situations. Nearly 2,500 firefighters are expected to participate in the training.

“This year’s Hands-On Training (H.O.T.) courses will be taught by some of the most fireground-proven firefighters in North America. Taking the hard-earned lessons of the fireground into the hands of the most passionate and serious training-oriented firefighters, this year’s educational program will be unsurpassed in depth and scope. Firefighters will walk away with critical new skill sets enabling them to work safer, more effectively and more efficiently while learning the techniques necessary to save lives,” said Chief Bobby Halton (ret.), FDIC Education Director and Editor In Chief of Fire Engineering magazine.

Several new courses will be offered this year in addition to courses focused on Advanced Vehicle Extrication, Aerial and Tower

Operations, Essentials of Search and Rescue, Fire Department Rescue Operations, Flashover Simulation, Heavy Vehicle Extrication, Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting, Collapse and Void Search Rescue, Live Fire First-Due Tactics and more.

The world’s premier fire training conference and exhibition, FDIC also features 150-plus classroom sessions taught by nearly 500 instructors, and 800 exhibiting companies featuring the latest technologies in fire apparatus, equipment and life-saving product advancements.

“For 86 years, the leaders of America's fire service have gathered at FDIC. Coming from every type of department, every background and every rank, they all share one common bond - the knowledge that great firefighters and great fire departments are made from an unfaltering commitment to training and drills. At FDIC, they meet unencumbered by any other mission to discuss fire, the most feared threat to Americans today.

At FDIC, the issues confronting all firefighters are reviewed and examined, with the sharing of solutions,” continued Halton.

FireNews.com

Fire News, May 2014, Page 49

COASTAL FIRE SYSTEMS NEW GLASS CUTTING KIT every turn. Cutting glass has never been easier.

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To schedule a free onsite demo call Coastal Fire Systems at 631-661-7515.

Coastal Fire Systems has been appointed the NY/NJ/CT distributor for the “Firehouse Systems FS2214 Glass Cutting Kit.” This kit comes with everything you need to cut windshields and laminated hurricane glass found in new home construction. The FS2214 attaches to your battery operated drill giving it a flexibility not found in other tools. This tool “floats” on your drill because it is only attached by the chuck. This design means you don’t have to repurchase the starting hole and reposition the tool at

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Page 50, Fire News, May 2014

FireNews.com

Up Close & Personal

Hopkinton Working Fire - Ashland Fire Tower 1 crew (From Left to Right) FF Matt Boland, FF Mark Cafarelli, LT David Iarussi & FF Peter Stone.

- Fire News photo by Doug Dow

Special Hazards Capt. Mike Bates.

- Fire News photo by Tim Delaney

Willimantic firefighters at South Coventry’s March 20, 2014 fire.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

Lt. James Elward (Safety Officer 1) operating at a recent all hands fire in Bridgeport. – Fire News photo by Keith Muratori

Two Hartford firefighters after Flatbush Avenue fire.

- Fire News photo by Jim Peruta

Whitman (MA) Fire Department crews bringing out burnt materials to the front yard.

- Fire News photo by Pat Travers

FireNews.com

Fire News, May 2014, Page 51

Up Close & Personal

Providence Tower Ladder 1 Firefighter.

- Fire News photo by Amanda Carmody

Millis firefighters after a basement fire on Lincoln Street in Medway (MA).

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

New Britain (CT) firefighters after a working fire on Greenwood St. - Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

Waterbury firefighter aggressivly attacking the Giles Street fire on February 25, 2014.

- Fire News photo by Kevin Czarzasty

Boston Ladder 4 Fort Dudley gets a bath.

- Fire News photo by SmokeShowingPhotography.com

A second alarm on Freeman Street in Boston on February 27, 2014.

- Fire News photo by Bill Noonan