Firefighters battled a second alarm blaze, in Duxbury (MA).
See story on page 4
Nashua House Fire Stopped
Nashua (NH) firefighters were dispatched to Monica Drive for a building fire.
See story on page 6
1 Save in Scituate 2-Alarmer
Scituate (RI) firefighters responded to Silk Lane on the afternoon of October 2, 2024, for a dwelling fire.
See story on page 7
Special Call Due to Window Bars in Hartford Fire
Hartford (CT) firefighters responded to Windsor Street on September 28, 2024, for a working fire.
See story on page 12
New Haven 2-Alarm: 1 Dead, 1 Critical, 10 Displaced
On October 6, 2024, New Haven (CT) firefighters were alerted for a dwelling fire.
See story on page 15
Healy-Driscoll Administration Honors Firefighters
35th Annual Firefighter of the year awards.
See story on page 29
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2-Alarm
Taftville CarFire Stopped
The Taftville (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to Hunters Road with Hunters Avenue intersection fora vehicle fire. Upon arrival, Engine 21 found an active carfire spreading to the adjacent brush line. The fire was quickly extinguished.
- Fire
Recently, firefighters battled a second alarm blaze, in Duxbury (MA).
- Fire News photo by Rob Reardon
News photo by Joe Shefer
Nashua House Fire Stopped
Nashua (NH) firefighters were dispatched to Monica Drive fora building fire recently. While en route, LadderCompany 3 reported a large column of smoke showing and arrived to heavy fire showing from the front of a single-family home. Ladder3 performed search-
Manchester
es while Engine 3 stretched attack lines. Othercompanies arrived and the fire was knocked down in a short amount of time. Companies remained on scene overhauling and checking for extension.
- Fire News photo by Patrick Kerrigan
Vernon
2-Alarmer
At 2305 on November20, 2024, Vernon (CT) Fire responded to numerous calls reporting a structure fire. Asecond alarm was struck priorto arrival when arriving companies had a well involved house.
- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
4-Unit Structure Fire
ManchesterFire received multiple reports of a building fire at Lake Avenue and Hall Street. While en route firefighters were advised there possibly was still one person trapped inside the building. Crews arrived to heavy fire and intense flames at the back of the building. Crews worked to evacuate the people from the building while others fought the fire. Several occupants of the four-unit building were safely evacuated. The fire was brought under control afterabout 30 minutes, the fire is underinvestigation by ManchesterFire Marshals Office.
- Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
1 Save in Scituate 2-Alarmer
Scituate (RI) firefighters responded to Silk Lane on the afternoon of October2, 2024, fora dwelling fire. Companies arrived to find a well involved 1-1/2 story, wood framed, occupied dwelling. Command struck a second alarm to bring in mutual aid from sur-
rounding towns. Afemale occupant who suffers from ALS was taken to the hospital forevaluation. The fire heavily damaged the dwelling. The cause of the fire was determined to be a faulty gas dryer.
- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
Leicester House Fire Held to Origin
On August, 5, 2024, at 1756, Leicester(MA) Fire companies were dispatched to King Court fora reported structure fire. On arrival, crews had smoke showing from the two story residential dwelling. Companies were able to hold the fire to the area of origin.
- Fire News photo by Adam MacMillian
2 Buildings Go in Providence
Providence (RI) firefighters worked a third alarm fire on the morning October18, 2024, on Laurel Hill Avenue. Companies arrived to find heavy fire from two 2-1/2 story dwellings. Firefighters worked an aggressive interiorattack until the fire started breaking through the roof. Command pulled all crews from the building to go defensive due to heavy fire conditions. Companies used two towerladders and several handlines to bring the fire undercontrol. Ironically these same two dwellings were the scene of a multi-alarm fire in 2016.
- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
O2 Tanks
Exploding
in Tiverton
Shortly before noon Tiverton (RI) firefighters responded to Fairfield Avenue fora structure fire. On arrival, the first-due company reported a fully involved structure with explosions and immediately called fora second alarm. The occupant was outside when the first unit arrived but numerous oxygen cylinders were cooking off and feeding the intense flames. Mutual aid responded from surrounding cities and towns to work and to cover. Companies were on scene forseveral hours, but the home was a total loss.
- Fire News photo by Ken Leger
Boston Boat Fire
In the late afternoon hours of September2, 2024, the Boston Fire Department struck a box fora boat fire at the docks of the Constitution Marina. Engine 50 and Ladder1 arrived and reported a fire in the engine compartment of a boat. Due to the location of the dock the department’s Marine Unit wasn’t able to get into position to fight the flames. Handlines were run down to the boat and used to extinguish the fire.
- Fire News photo by Sean Fesko
MAWildland Fires Spiked 1,200% in October
In Massachusetts, an average of 15 wildland fires are reported each October. This year, the month’s total capped at about 200 - an increase of about 1,200 percent over the average, and higher than the monthly numbers usually seen in the traditional early spring brush fire season. Of these fires, 100 were reported over a sevenday period, and preliminary information indicated that all of them started with human activity.
The Statewide Fire Mobilization Plan was activated to send 12 forestry task forces from central, eastern, and southeastern Massachusetts to support large fires in Wilmington, Salem, Canton, and Middleton, where firefighters from as far away as Stoughton were supporting local efforts.
Local coordinators from the Massachusetts Emergency Management
Agency are in contact with public safety officials experiencing large wildfires and are prepared to support needs as they arise. The Massachusetts Air National Guard has repeatedly mobilized helicopters to conduct water drop operations in Salem and Middleton. The Department of Fire Services has sent drone units, all-terrain vehicles, and firefighter rehab units to support incident commanders and fireground personnel. The Department of Conservation & Recreation’s Bureau of Forest Fire Control and Forestry is assisting local fire departments with monitoring all active incidents, DCR fire towers are on full alert, and a temporary ban has been implemented on all open flame and charcoal fires at Massachusetts state parks.
- Submitted by Jake Wark
Dunstable Garage a Total Loss
Dunstable (MA) firefighters were dispatched to a reported structure fire on High Street on October26, 2024. Companies arrived to find a 20-x-40foot detached garage fully involved, threatening an exposure. Command transmitted a working fire bringing mutual aid to the scene and to cover. Adeck gun and multiple handlines were used to knock down the main body of fire. The garage was a total loss. Companies remained on scene forseveral hours overhauling.
- Fire News photo by Jamie Kelley
Essex County Forest Fire
Spencer 2-Day Brush Fire
On November1, 2024, Spencer(MA) firefighters battled a multialarm brush fire overthe course of two days. Multiple mutual aid assisted and a tankershuttle from nearby Howe State Park provided water.
- Fire News photo by Bud Harris
7 Alarm at Southbridge House Fire
Southbridge (MA) firefighters responded to a call that came in around 0330 on November13, 2024, reporting two multi-family houses and several cars on fire. Quick second and third alarms were struck on arrival; eventually seven alarms were struck overthe 90 minutes and it took firefighters about three hours to bring the massive blaze undercontrol. Luckily the occupants of both homes safely evacuated, and no injuries were reported. The blaze was considered suspicious and was being investigated by local and state authorities.
- Fire News photo by Matt Gregoire
North AndoverFire Chief John Weirmoves a fallen snag tree blocking firefighteraccess in Boxford State Forest on November10, 2024. Firefighters from across Essex County responded to the wildfire, which burned forweeks and grew to nearly 130 acres. It was one of hundreds of wildfires that broke out across Massachusetts during an unprecedented wildfire season. Falling snags injured at least three Massachusetts firefighters during Novemberwildfire responses, and claimed the life of a New York forest ranger.
- Submitted by Jake Wark
3-Alarm Structure Fire in Ware
In the early morning on August 7, 2024, Ware (MA) firefighters were dispatched to Church Street fora reported structure fire. On arrival, companies encountered a fully involved garage/carriage house in the rearof the dwelling. The blaze went to three alarms, bringing in mutual aid from surrounding communities.
-
Fire News photo by Adam MacMillan
Quincy 3-Alarmer
Around 14:30 on September12, 2024, the Quincy (MA) Fire Department received calls fora fire on Belmont Street. Police arrived first and were told there was still someone in the building, which was relayed to Engine 4 and Ladder2 upon theirarrival moments later- the scene was a third of a mile from the Wollaston Fire Station. Crews reported heavy fire in the interiorand on the B/C corner; Engine 4 stretched a line while Ladder2 began search and rescue. Due to the intensity of the flames, Ladder2s crew was pushed back and they were unable to initially complete the primary
Dover3-Alarmer
search. Asecond alarm was requested and it was soon determined that everyone was accounted for. Athird alarm was then called, bringing all but one city company to the scene, while out of town fire crews were brought in to coverQuincy firehouses. Multiple ladder pipes were utilized to knock the heaviest fire down before crews went interior. Crews were hampered with heat in the mid-80s as well as difficult access foranything but a ladderon the Charlie-side. - Fire News photo by Sean Fesko
Special Call Due to Window Bars in Hartford Fire
Hartford (CT) firefighters responded to WindsorStreet on September28, 2024, at 2048, fora working fire. An extra ladder was special called due to window bars. Companies arrived to fire showing from the roof.
- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
On August 18, 2024, Dover(NH) firefighters and mutual aid worked a three-alarm building fire on New York Street.
- Fire News photo by Robert Nettles
1 FFKilled in Berlin Forest Fire Fight
On October21, 2024, Berlin (CT) firefighters responded to a brush fire that quickly grew to 90 acres. Several mutual aid units assisted, a National Guard helicopterand a helicopterfrom Maine were called forwaterdrops forthree days where crews had access issues. Tragically, a 66-year-old volunteerfirefighterdied when the UTVhe was riding in rolled over, fatally injuring him.
- Fire News photo by Rick Kulmann
New Haven House Fire
New Haven (CT) firefighters responded to Castle Street fora reported house on fire on November11, 2024. Engine 10 arrived to heavy fire in the rearof a 2-1/2 wood frame. Firefighters stretched a 2-1/2 inch line to the rearto knock down the exteriorfire before pushing into the building. The building was underconstruction at the time so firefighters had to take precautionary measures. Firefighters quickly knocked down the fire.
- Fire News photo by Jack McCarthy (Fill The Box Fire Photography)
Voluntown Blaze
Whitman Douses
Worcester
Blaze
Firefighters operated at a second alarm on Upsala Street, in Worcester(MA), on September14, 2024. - Fire News photo by
Marquis Road
- Fire News photo by Joe Shefer
Paul Shea
- Fire News photo by Pat Travers
Submitted by Thornton Ring, Freeport Fire Police 507
- Fire News photo by Patrick Kerrigan
- Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
Electrical Smoker
On October12, 2024, Kingston (MA) firefighters responded to SummerStreet forsmoke-in-a- building call. Crews had a haze in the building, and found a branch had fallen on a primary powerline causing an electrical problem in the building. Powerwas secured and the scene was turned overto the owner.
- Fire News photo by John Sjostedt
New Haven 2-Alarm: 1 Dead, 1 Critical, 10 Displaced
On October6, 2024, just after0600, New Haven (CT) firefighters were alerted fora dwelling fire. Engine Six arrived to fire showing from the second floorof a three-story private dwelling. During searches two victims were located on the second floor. This prompted a second alarm transmitted by orders of Deputy Chief Wishart. Multiple lines were stretched and operated on the numbertwo and three floors. This combined with topside ventilation brought the fire undercontrol within an hour. One victim was pronounced at the hospital and the otheris in critical condition. Ten occupants were displaced. The cause of the fire is being investigated. - Fire News photo by Glenn Duda
- Fire News photo by Matt Gregorie
Submitted by Doug Fenichel
Fire News photo by John Sjostedt
Fire News photo by Ken Leger
Fire News photo by Olivia Drake
photo by Rick Kulmann
Looking Back
Fitchburg (MA) - 1991
June 29 1991
Fitchburg (MA) four-alarms.
Part of the city was without electricity at the time of the fire.
- Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade
Athol (MA) - 2012
On January 19, 2012, the formerN. D. Cass Company, which manufactured toys, was completely destroyed by the fire. Many of the houses that surrounded the property suffered minordamage from the intense heat. The three-story building was being used forstorage at the time of the fire. More than 100 firefighters from 15 departments assisted at the scene orcovered. The N.D. Cass Co. closed in 1997. Chief Loziersaid the factory was over100 years old. It was built in 1896 and continued to serve as a toy factory until 1997. - Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade
Webster- 2022
On March 18, 2022, in Webster(MA) firefighters responded fora three-alarm fire at the Wind Tiki Chinese Restaurant on Thompson Road. Aman was latercharged forthe arson. The restaurant, which had been a signature in town foroverfive decades, was torn down that afternoon.
- Fire News photo by Matt Gregoire
4-Alarms-Plus in New Haven
On October30, 2024, New Haven (CT) firefighters responded fora report of smoke coming from a RiverStreet commercial structure. The fire quickly went through the roof, as there were numerous outof-service hydrants in the area, including a dead hydrant across the street from the fire building, prompting a second alarm. The delay in waterand the contents of the building, which included an auto body shop, storage, a used appliance repairoperation and construction equipment, contributed to the rapid spread of the fire. The fire also spread to an attached two-story warehouse prompting the transmission of the third and fourth alarms. All city of New Haven
units operated on the scene. Aspecial call was made to East Haven, West Haven and North Haven forengine companies. Several relay pumping operations also were called. The city of West Haven also sent theirfireboat, due to the fire’s proximity to the waterfront. Firefighters were on the scene forover15 hours. Ademolition company was brought in to assist the fire marshal with the investigation. There were no injuries.
- Fire News photos by Glenn Duda, allhandsworking and Jack McCarthy (Fill The Box Fire Photography)
Up Close & Personal
fire in a commercial building. As a side note, the fingers they are holding up represent the shift they are assigned and anothersign of pride and ownership. - Photo courtesy of Duxbury FD
Duxbury (MA) Firefighters aftersecond alarm
Smithfield (RI) firefighters along with multiple mutual aid companies worked a multiple acre brush fire off of DeCotis Farm Road on November8, 2024.
- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
Firefighters from the Harford Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
Deputy Fire Chief Kevin Kerrigan in command of a working fire on October5, 2024.
- Fire News photo by Patrick Kerrigan
District Chief Thomas Coyle Special Operations Chief.
- Fire News photo by Paul Shea
Abington MVA
Around 1220 on the afternoon of October31, 2024, Abington (MA) Fire Car2 on-sited an MVAat Bedford Street and Randolph Street (Route 18 and Route 139) with a work van on its side. Car2 reported one victim was trapped, requested the box be struck formanpower, and two ambulances to respond. Route 18 southbound was shut down until the van could be righted and removed. - Fire News photo by Pat Travers
Micro Burst in Simsbury
ASimsbury firefightercalls in formore assistance aftermicro burst swept through Simsbury (CT).
- Fire News photo by Mark Grabowski
Fall RiverMVA with Injuries
On the morning of October4, 2024, Fall River(MA) Engine 4 and Medic 3 were dispatched to the intersection of Jefferson and Kennedy streets fora reported MVA. The officerof Engine 4 took command and requested that Ladder2 and Heavy Rescue 1 be dispatched to pop a doorand medical command requested an additional rescue due to the numberof patients. Rescue 1 and Ladder2 used theirbattery-operated spreaders and cutters to access the passengercompartment and remove the driverwho was transported to a local trauma center.
- Fire News photo by Ken Leger
Fatality at Preston MVA
At 2007 on November3, 2024, the Preston (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to Route 164 foran MVAwith entrapment. Asingle vehicle had left the roadway and struck a tree. First arriving fire department units found the drivertrapped and unconscious, suffering from serious injuries. The driverwas extricated in approximately seven minutes. Unfortunately, the driverwas pronounced deceased on the scene.
- Fire News photo by Craig Maerkel
Head-on in Uxbridge, 1 Fatal, 1 Serious
Carinto
Fire Station
Kingston (MA) firefighters were alerted to a vehicle that struck the fire station. On arrival firefighters found two patients with minorinjuries. Firefighters also found a smoke condition in the building. Afterinvestigating the incident, it was determined to be an electrical problem. The powerwas secured to the building and one patient was transported by ground to Beth Israel Plymouth with non-life-threatening injuries.
- Fire News photo John Sjostedt
Uxbridge (MA) firefighters responded to fatal head-on collision on QuakerHighway in Uxbridge on October 14, 2024. The call came in shortly before midnight reporting the crash. Callers stated one of the victims was trapped and the vehicle was on fire. Bystanders from a nearby billiards club heard the crash, ran over with fire extinguishers to put out the vehicle that was on fire. The woman inside was pronounced dead at the scene by a Lifeflight crew that was called to the scene. The operatorof the 2nd vehicle was transported to UMass hospital with serious injuries.
- Fire News photo by Matt Gregoire
Nashua MVAand Medevac
Nashua (NH) Fire Rescue, AMR, State Police, and Nashua Police responded to an automatic crash notification from inside a vehicle on the F.E. Everett Turnpike. Dispatch reported that at about 0500 the notification came in, and they could heara person moaning but were unable to communicate. Responders began to search the area of Exit 4 on the turnpike and initially did not locate the vehicle. An AMR Ambulance crew located the vehicle up a steep embankment well off the road and nearthe Dunstable Road overpass. Medics updated the location and reported they could not access the driverdue to the instability of the vehicle. Nashua Fire Rescue began extrication, and command requested that a medical helicopterland on the turnpike at the scene. Boston MedFlight advised of a 15to 20-minute response, as firefighters continued to extricate the woman. The turnpike was shut down on the northbound side to establish an LZ. State police said it appeared there was only a single vehicle involved - Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
3 Dead in Salem 1-CarMVA
New Hampshire State Police are investigating a deadly singlevehicle crash in Salem (NH) on the Exit 2 off-ramp. Salem Fire, police and state police responded to the bottom of the Exit 2 ramp just after1400 fora vehicle that had left the road and crashed. Salem firefighters accessed the three adults and all were pronounced deceased at the scene. The vehicle was occupied by three people and it appears no othervehicles were involved in the incident.
- Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
Training
Allington Live Burn Training
Allingtown (CT) volunteers conducted theiryearly live burn training with all three fire districts of West Haven. Crews had a simulated fire on the first and second floors in the burn building and had a mock response as if there was a dispatch fora building on fire. During these trainings crews are able to refine theirskills and be able to get as close to real fire conditions as possible.
- Fire News photo by Tyler Reardon
Forcible Entry
Bellingham, MAFire Captain Brad Kwatcherand the crew of Engine 2 train on the department’s new forcible entry door.
- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
Fire Control Night at CT’s Academy
Hartford (CT) County Regional Fire School FF2 class took part in fire control night involving the carfire prop at the Connecticut Fire Academy. Crews of two worked together, opened the hood and doors and extinguished the fire. Abackup line was in place to assist. The night was led by instructors Jason Gilbert and Mike Brown. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
HazMat Training forHaddam
During a drill night in October, members of the Haddam (CT) VolunteerFire Company participated in a HazMat refresher. The drill, taught by Captain Josh Meyer, focused on decontaminating responders afterthey have entered a hot zone. Firefighters practiced how to clean a contaminated person using various techniques including emergency, wet and dry technical decontamination and nonambulatory decontamination on simulated responders who were wearing Level Aprotective suits, which offerthe highest level of protection against hazmat, but severely limit both vision and dexterity. Afterpracticing decontamination, Captain Meyertrained firefighters how to use field decontamination kits to clean bunkergearat a fire scene, which can reduce the amount of exposure to the carcinogens generated by modern fires. - Fire News photo by Olivia Drake
Fall RiverLive
Burn at Bristol Academy
On October20, 2024, the Bristol County Regional Fire Academy held a live burn at the Louis A. Shea, Jr., Training facility in Fall River. Massachusetts Fire Academy instructors worked with numerous firefightercandidates from all overthe South Coast fora live burn. Recruits advanced attack lines through the smoke-filled burn building searching forvictims and the seat of the fire. Two three person teams entered as primary and back up during the all-day training exercise. Fall River(MA) Special Services provided rehab forall the participants. - Fire News photo by Ken Leger
Groton Rope Ops Training
Groton (CT) Township Fire conducting rope operations at local quarry. - Photo courtesy of Groton Twp FD
22 Local Firefighters Graduate from State Fire Academy
32 Local Firefighters Graduate from Firefighting Academy
State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine and Massachusetts Firefighting Academy leadership today announced the graduation of 32 firefighters from the 50-day Career Recruit Firefighting Training Program.
The graduating firefighters of Class #324 represent the fire departments of Auburn, Bedford, Burlington, Chelsea, Devens, Easton, Haverhill, Hopedale, Hull, Lawrence, Lincoln, Maynard, Medford, Natick, Southborough and Swampscott. - Submitted by Jake Wark
23 Local Firefighters Graduate from State Fire Academy
State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine announced the graduation of 22 recruits from the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy’s Call/Volunteer Recruit Firefighter Training Program this evening. The graduates received certificates of completion at a ceremony held at the Department of Fire Services’Stow campus.
The graduating firefighters of Call/Volunteer Recruit Class #115 represent the fire departments of Avon, Berkley, Dartmouth Fire District 1, Dartmouth Fire District 2, Dartmouth Fire District 3, Dighton, Freetown, Kingston, Lincoln, Plympton, and Swansea.
The Martin H. McNamara Outstanding Student Award was presented to Firefighter Shayne Redmond of the Plympton Fire Department. The award is named for Martin “Marty” McNamara V, a call firefighter with the Lancaster Fire Department who lost his life in the line of duty in 2003 while battling a fire in a multifamily home. It is presented to one recruit in each graduating call/volunteer training class and recognizes their academic and practical skills, testing, and evaluations over the course of the program.
Video of the ceremony can be found at the Department of Fire Services’YouTube channel, www.youtube.com/dfsosfm. - Submitted by Jake Wark
16 Local Firefighters Graduate from Firefighting Academy
State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine and Massachusetts Firefighting Academy leadership today announced the graduation of 16 firefighters from the 50-day Career Recruit Firefighting Training Program.
The graduating firefighters of Class S38 represent the fire departments of Agawam, Amherst, Douglas, East Longmeadow, Holden, Holyoke, Ludlow, Marblehead, Ware, and West Springfield.
The Richard N. Bangs Outstanding Student Award, which is presented to one recruit in each graduating career recruit training class, was presented to Firefighter Craig Presnal of the East Longmeadow Fire Department. The award is named for the longtime chair of the Massachusetts Fire Training Council and reflects the recruit’s academic and practical skills, testing, and evaluations over the course of the 10-week program. The MFAprovides recruit and in-service training for career, call, and volunteer firefighters at every level of experience, from recruit to chief officer. Courses are delivered at MFAcampuses in Stow, Springfield, and Bridgewater, as well as on-site at local fire departments. - Submitted by Jake Wark
31 Local Firefighters Graduate from Firefighting Academy
State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine announced the graduation of 25 recruits from the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy’s Call/Volunteer Recruit Firefighter Training Program this evening. The graduates received certificates of completion at a ceremony held at the Department of Fire Services’Stow campus. The graduating firefighters of Call/Volunteer Recruit Class #114 represent the fire departments of Athol, Berlin, Boxborough, Carlisle, Grafton, Holliston, Hubbardston, Lincoln, Lynnfield, Middleton, Millis, Paxton, Pepperell, Phillipston, Westminster, and Weston.
The Martin H. McNamara Outstanding Student Award was presented to Firefighter Philip Gonzalez of the Grafton Fire Department. The award is named for Martin “Marty” McNamara V, a call firefighter with the Lancaster Fire Department who lost his life in the line of duty in 2003 while battling a fire in a multifamily home. It is presented to one recruit in each graduating call/volunteer training class and recognizes their academic and practical skills, testing, and evaluations over the course of the program. Video of the ceremony was posted at the Department of Fire Services’YouTube channel, www.youtube.com/dfsosfm.
- Fire News photo by Jake Wark
State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine and Massachusetts Firefighting Academy leadership today announced the graduation of 31 firefighters from the 50-day Career Recruit Firefighting Training Program.
The graduating firefighters of Class 325 represent the fire departments of Amesbury, Ashland, Burlington, Concord, Lynn, Maynard, Medford, Melrose, Nantucket, Needham, Newton, Northbridge, Reading, Somerville, Stow, Wakefield, Wellesley, and Westborough.
The Richard N. Bangs Outstanding Student Award, which is presented to one recruit in each graduating career recruit training class, was presented to Firefighter Eric Frechette of the Maynard Fire Department. The award is named for the longtime chair of the Massachusetts Fire Training Council and reflects the recruit’s academic and practical skills, testing, and evaluations over the course of the 10-week program.
- Submitted by Jake Wark
Healey-Driscoll Administration Honors Firefighters forBravery, Heroism and Service
35th Annual Firefighter of the Year Awards
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, Secretary of Public Safety and Security Terrence Reidy, and State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine recognized outstanding acts of bravery, heroism and service today at the 35th annual Firefighter of the Year Awards ceremony.
This year’s award recipients were:
Amesbury Fire Department
Group Citation for Meritorious Conduct Firefighter/Paramedics Justin Kane and Carl Rizzo.
Attleboro Fire Department
Group Citation for Meritorious Conduct
Captain Scott Godin, Captain Steven Stellakis Firefighters Ryan Bielawa, Jessie Lee, Nicholas Mangonello, Jason Mayer; and Brian Sweeney.
Barnstable Fire Department
Norman Knight Award for Excellence in Community Service: Captain Brian Tyson.
Brockton Fire Department
Citation for Meritorious Conduct Firefighter Joseph Hanley and Helio Lima.
Brockton Fire Department
Stephen D. Coan Fire Marshal Award
Deputy Chief Edward Williams.
Chicopee Fire Department
Group Citation for Meritorious Conduct
Deputy Chief Peter Jerusik; Lieutenants Joshua Provost and Matthew Zabik; Firefighters Nathan Carvalho; Steven Laurin; Laura Rousseau; Benjamin Souza; and Patrick Strepka.
Cotuit Fire Department
Norman Knight Award for Excellence in Community Service: Firefighters/Paramedics Christian Gardiner and Brian Lee.
Dartmouth Fire District 1
Group Citation for Meritorious Conduct
Asst. Chief Timothy Lancaster; Captains Ryan Cabral and Jeffrey Costa; Lieutenants Joshua Ferreira and Skott Gerald Rebello.
Falmouth Fire Department
Group Citation for Meritorious Conduct
Chief Timothy Smith, Deputy Chiefs Scott Thrasher and Chad Absten; Captain Ryan Gavin; Lieutenants Christopher Brown, Jeffry Waggett and Benjamin Wellington; Firefighters Nathan Desrochers, Jake Hanafin, Randy Koslowsky, Barry Lima, Jr., Daniel Lopes, Jr., Christopher McEntee, Jeffrey Meau, Stephanie Melanson, Dallas O’Brien, Mackenzie Wyman, and
Nicholas Zimmerman.
Medal of Valor: Lieutenant Timothy Bailey, Firefighters Damian Boyar and Casey Reed.
Hyannis Fire Department
Group Citation for Meritorious Conduct
Firefighters Theodore Duchesney, and Andrew Hennessy; and Firefighter/Paramedic Brendan Macdonald.
Hyannis Fire Department
Group Citation for Meritorious Conduct
Firefighters Chester Coggeshall and Jeffrey Erving.
Lawrence Fire Department
Group Citation for Meritorious Conduct
Lieutenant Joseph Murphy, Firefighter Gabriel Fraval, and Firefighter Patrick Sweeney.
Lowell Fire Department
Medal of Valor
Lieutenant Daniel Eaton, Firefighter Pannel Davis and Firefighter Michael Santos.
New Bedford Fire Department
Group Citation for Meritorious Conduct
Acting Lieutenant Brandon Medeiros and Firefighter Steven Holzer.
Newton Fire Department
Group Citation for Meritorious Conduct
Captain Karl ‘Gus’Svartstrom, Lieutenant Joseph DeLuca, and Firefighters Richard Busa, Ryan Doherty, Michael Pohlman, Lawrence Quinn, Andrew Sbordone and Joseph Yerardi.
North Attleboro Fire Department
Group Citation for Meritorious Conduct
Asst. Fire Chief/Paramedic George McKinnon, Superintendent/Paramedic James Kern
Lieutenant/Paramedics Shawn Brillon and Diego Dasilva; Lieutenant/EMTCurt Chretien; Firefighter/EMTCameron Cornetta; Firefighter/Paramedics Aaron Braga, Matt Schafer and Mike Smith.
Orange Fire Department
Group Citation for Meritorious Conduct
Acting Captain Timothy Matthews. Lieutenant Phillip Dupell, Lieutenant/EMTJason Rushford; Firefighter/Paramedic Nino Rodriguez. Medal of Valor: Captain Timothy Matthews.
Plymouth Fire Department
Citation for Meritorious Conduct Firefighter Joshua Daubert.
Salisbury Fire Department
Citation for Meritorious Conduct
Chief Scott Carrigan, Lieutenant Daniel Souliotis, Firefighter/Paramedic Matthew Nichols and Firefighter Christopher Stiles.
Springfield Fire Department
Group Citation for Meritorious Conduct
Captain Angel Caquias, Lieutenants Craig Fallon and William LaPalm; Firefighters Anthony Basile, Melquan Bland, Luis Cruz, Dominic Grilli, Raushaun James, Korry Laboy, Jason McClendon, Christian Ramos and Eric Xavier Smith.
Westborough Fire Department
Group Citation for Meritorious Conduct
Lieutenant Christopher Dubois; Firefighters
Sean Doherty; David Dutton; Patrick Sheridan and Chris Weinwurm.
Whitman Fire Department
Group Citation for Meritorious Conduct
Firefighters Zachary Baldwin and Russell Lucas; Firefighter/Paramedics, Jerry Thompson, Justin Everson and Joseph Lasko.
Woburn Fire Department
Group Citation for Meritorious Conduct
Lieutenant Robert Gerety, Firefighters
Shawn Courtney and Douglas Masse.
WorcesterFire Department
Group Citation for Meritorious Conduct
Lieutenant Matthew Kane and Lieutenant John Ushinski.
WorcesterFire Department
Citation for Meritorious Conduct
Firefighter Ryan Magee
Group Citation for Meritorious Conduct
Lieutenant Patrick Chviruk; Lieutenant; Matthew Johnson; Temp. Lieutenant
Brian O’Connor; Firefighters Michael Berube, Timothy Brotherton, Patrick Flibbert, Matthew Foley, Timothy Fontaine, Dana Ford, Edwin Paulino and Andrejs Sterns.
WorcesterFire Department
Group Citation for Meritorious Conduct
Lieutenant Patrick Loughnane; Firefighters
Jeremy Horan, Justin Pike and Jordan Rutherford Medal of Valor
Captain Jessie Verdolino; Lieutenant Patrick Moran; Firefighters David Brotherton, Steven Brotherton, Giuliano Conte, Kyle Green, Sean Murphy and Daniel Roy.
- Submitted by Jake Wark
Chicopee Fire Captain Back on the Job AfterSuccessful Surgery
Captain Zachary Vozella of the Chicopee (MA) Fire Department wasn’t experiencing any symptoms when he signed up for a free ultrasound through the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy, but he knew that firefighters are at higher risk of developing occupational cancer.
“I think I read about it in an email and it seemed like a good idea,” Capt. Vozella said of signing up for the screening. “I met the criteria. I’m 43, I’ve been on the job for 12 years, and I knew the screenings were available through the Academy. So, I figured, why not?”
“Occupational cancer is the leading cause of death in the fire service,” said State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine. “Firefighters are more likely to develop cancer, to develop it at younger ages, and to receive a late diagnosis. Our cancer screening program reflects a statewide commitment to support our firefighters’ health and safety, and I encourage every firefighter in every Massachusetts fire department to take advantage of it.”
Captain Vozella had surgery to remove his left kidney on July 30, about four weeks after his initial visit. The pathology report after the surgery revealed the cancer was stage 1B chromophobe renal cell carcinoma. “They got me in pretty quickly,” he said, adding that he was grateful throughout the ordeal for the support he got from his family at home and at the Chicopee Fire Department.
After returning to work on September 27, Captain Vozella is urging his brother and sister firefighters to recognize the risk of occupational cancer, discuss those risks with their doctors, and most importantly put their health front and center. For more info contact the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy, visit https://www.mass.gov/occupational-cancer-in-the-fire-service. - Submitted by Jake Wark
Sharpening TheirSpidey Skills!
Easton’s Olivia DelPrete Graduates from Academy
Chief Justin Alexander is pleased to share that Easton Firefighter/Paramedic Olivia DelPrete graduated from the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy (MFA) on October 11, 2024. DelPrete was one of 32 graduates from 16 departments in the Career Recruit Firefighter Training Program Class 324.
Firefighter/Paramedic DelPrete has worked in private EMS for the last year at Brewster Ambulance. She began that job shortly after graduating from high school. Graduates are now certified at the level of Firefighter I and II and in hazardous material operation.
“We are excited to welcome Olivia to our firefighting family and look forward to working alongside her as we strive to protect and serve our community together,” Chief Alexander said. “Olivia is going to be an outstanding asset to the Easton Fire Department and the community we protect.” - Submitted by Cody Shepard
Easton Thanks Community Following Open House Turnout
On October13, 2024, the Boston Fire Department Aerial Drill Team put on a display of aerial evolutions at Castle Island in South Boston. Firefighters from various fire companies throughout the city climbed 100-foot aerial ladders, climbed ground ladders, jumped from ladderbridges into an airbag, carried otherfirefighters down ground ladders, climbed a chain of pompierladders and were lowered on ropes from the tips of the 100-foot aerials. The demonstration concluded when a firefighter, aka “Spider-Man,” slid on the rope upside down. - Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan
East Granby 4th Annual Golf Tournament
Chief Justin Alexanderand members of the Easton (CT) Fire Department wish to thank the community forsupporting the department’s annual Open House. The event was held on September 28, 2024, at Easton Fire Station 1 on Lothrop Street ahead of National Fire Prevention Week. Well overa thousand people attended Saturday’s three-hourevent filled with family friendly activities, live demonstrations and food. The Open House allowed attendees to explore Easton Fire Department apparatus, including a fire engine, laddertruck and ambulance, Easton Police vehicles, including motorcycles, and a Community Emergency Response Team UTV. The Massachusetts State Police Bomb Squad brought two robots. Easton firefighters assisted children in using fire hoses to knock down imaginary fires on a wooden cutout. Sparky the Fire Dog was in attendance and took photos with the kids. Children could also participate in face painting, decorating pumpkins and coloring activities and much more. Chief Alexanderwould like to thank sponsors who helped make the open house possible, including Alltown, Bank of Easton, Big Y, Domino’s Pizza, Dunkin’, Roche Bros., Shaw’s and TMK Paving. - Submitted by Cody Shepard
Veterans Day in Fall River
East Granby (CT) Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary and East Granby Volunteer Fire Department hosted their 4th annual golf tournament on September23, 2024, at the Hopmeadow Country Club in Simsbury (CT). Approximately 25 teams took part in the event on a cool and cloudy but great day. Huge shout out to Marshall Benware, Zach Hacia, Ryan Gothers, Chris Gothers, Andrea Benware, Kim Wolfe, Morgan Benware, Donna Santy, and all the volunteers who made today a successful day. Side note during the golf event, there was a minorgas leak at the CC and Simsbury fire assisted the leak. Huge thank you to all the sponsors who donated forthe raffle! - Fire News photo by John DeForest
On November11, 2024, the City of Fall River(MA) honored their veterans with the annual parade down Main Street. The city’s Public Safety departments were well represented. - Fire News photo by Ken
Leger
GovernorHealey Signs Bill Preventing PFAs in Turnout Gear
Massachusetts GovernorMaura Healey signed a bill preventing the use of PFAS in firefighters gear. The woman in the blue dress is Diane Cotter, wife of retired WorcesterFire Lieutenant Paul Cotter. Paul was diagnosed with cancer, which caused his early retirement.
His wife Diane was an absolute bulldog taking on the gearmanufacturers head on until she caught the earof IAFFPresident and Boston native Ed Kelly.
- Fire News photos by Paul Shea
Fall RiverAnnual Open House
The Fall River(MA) Fire Department held its annual Fire Prevention Week open house at the Reney/Eastwood fire station. Attendees were treated to free pizza and tours of the station and apparatus. Sparky the Fire Dog made an appearance to the delight
of the children. Bike Helmets were raffled off and the adults were able to learn the properway to use a portable fire extinguisher.
- Fire News photos by Ken Leger
Todd Myers Sworn in as Simsbury’s New Fire Chief
Todd Myers was sworn in as the eighth Chief of Department of the Simsbury (CT) Volunteer Fire Company at a ceremony celebrating the new Fire Chief and honoring the service of James Baldis, the retiring Chief, who served for the past 20 years. Myers was sworn in by Simsbury Town Clerk Trish Munroe.
Myers started out in the cadet program in 1993 with cadet number C-76. In 1996 he moved to a regular member with service number 367, indicating he is the 367th member of the Fire Company. Myers has been Lieutenant and Captain at Bushy Hill station. His many certifications include to the level of Fire Officer I, Fire Service Instructor II, EPAHazardous Materials Technician, and Emergency Medical Technician.
The Simsbury Fire District and Simsbury Volunteer Fire Company have provided fire protection since 1944, taking over from Ensign-Bickford during the war. The Fire Company provides the volunteer firefighters and the Fire District provides the equipment and training. The Fire District appoints the Fire Chief to oversee the operations of the Volunteer Fire Company. - Submitted by Kitty Vangunten
Simsbury’s Town Clerk Trish Munroe swearing in the new Fire Chief Todd Myers. Myers follows his grandfather, Stanley, and his father, Ken, as Simsbury VolunteerFire Company members.
Simsbury’s retiring Fire Chief James Baldis with Lisa Seminara, Simsbury’s State Senator, at the ceremony to swearin a new Fire Chief, Todd Myers. Baldis is retiring after20 years as Chief of Department and a 48-yearfirefighting career.
- Photos by Kitty Vangunten, Simsbury Volunteer Fire Company
Comings and Goings in Lime Rock FD
On November18, 2024, the Lime Rock (RI) Fire District in Lincoln held a swearing-in ceremony forsix members and also presented a shadow box to five members who have retired. Congratulations to Captain Matt Wilbour, Lieutenants Albert Ledoux and Justin
Swansea Public Safety Day
Zonfrillo, Firefighters Jordyn Harrison, Douglas Belisle and Matthew Levesque on yourswearing in and Craig Tucker, Justin Maino, Joseph Amaral, James Isherwood, Michael Lasorsa on your retirements. - Fire News photos by Ken LaBelle
October6, 2024, the Swansea (MA) Fire Department held a Public Safety Day at their Station 2. The day started with a parade, then everyone mustered at the station to enjoy the festivities. Swansea Police, Swansea Ambulance, and National Grid along with the Massachusetts State Police attended. There were fire safe cooking demonstrations as well as a fire safe trailerto teach fire safety to children and adults. Children got to handle a hoseline and knock down simulated flames in a window. Members demonstrated the hydraulic rescue tools by removing the doors and roof of a motor vehicle. Members also delighted the crowd with a live fire demo.
- Fire News photo by Ken Leger
In Memory
Wethersfield & Hartford’s Robert Sharkevich, Sr.
On October 25, 2024, members of Haddam Volunteer Fire Company received a heartwarming gift basket, drawing, and card from sisters Hayleigh (pictured) and Ava DiPerla of Haddam (CT). They presented the basket to the company following the death of Wethersfield Firefighter Robert Sharkevich, Sr.
Firefighter Sharkevich was killed October 22, 2024, while fighting a massive brush fire on Lamentation Mountain in Berlin (CT). Haddam firefighters, who also worked to extinguish the fire in Berlin for 13 hours, were in the area when Firefighter Sharkevich died in a UTVaccident.
Hayleigh herself wants to be a firefighter. When she was five-yearsold and living in Deep River, CT, she was struck by a vehicle after getting off the bus. Although she wasn’t injured, she recalls the multiple volunteer firefighters from Deep River Fire Department who responded and gave Hayleigh and Ava stuffed animals before going away in the ambulance. To this day, she is grateful for fire and EMS personnel.
- Photos courtesy of The DiPerla Family; Submitted by Olivia Drake
Rye FR Reunites with Man Whose Life They Saved
Chris Phillips set off on a bike ride from his Hampton home to York Beach, Maine, on September11, 2022. The next thing he remembers is waking up in a hospital bed, confused, with doctors telling him they thought they would never see him again. Phillips laterlearned that he had suffered a cardiac arrest, a medical event that only 10 percent of people survive. On July 18, 2024, about 50 friends and family members, and those who took part in Chris’care, gathered at the Rye Public Safety building to celebrate his survival.
- Submitted by Tom Zuppa
Duxbury
Open House
Duxbury (MA) Fire hosted theirannual open house which was attended by hundreds of residents. This is a great opportunity for the community to meet theirfirefighters and learn more about what they do.
- Fire News photo by Rob Reardon
The Ending of an Era
The last two Maxim fire trucks to serve in the State of Vermont are coming to an end. Newark (VT) Fire Department’s Tanker51, a 1978 Maxim S modified into a tanker, is being replaced with a new E-One tanker. Castleton (VT) Ladder1, a 1984 FModel with an 85-
Perry
Appointed Berkley’s New Chief of Department
The Berkley (MA) Fire and Rescue Department announced the appointment of Jason Perry to be the department’s new Chief.
Perry, 46, is a lifelong resident of Berkley who grew up around the fire station. His dad was a volunteer firefighter from 1974 to 2016, when he retired as the call Deputy Chief.
Perry started working with the Berkley Fire and Rescue Department in 1994 as a junior firefighter. He became a call Firefighter in 1996, obtained his Paramedic certification in 2002 and worked as a Paramedic for American Medical Response in Brockton and then as a Paramedic supervisor for American Medical Response in Middleborough.
He was hired full time by the Berkley Fire and Rescue Department in 2004.
Perry then worked his way up
through the ranks, becoming Deputy Chief in 2019, as well as EMS Coordinator and Fire Prevention Officer. Earlier, the Berkley Board of Selectmen appointed Perry the new permanent chief.
He replaces Chief Scott Fournier, who recently retired from a 40-year career.
“I’d like to thank my wife Kathy, my parents, my family and friends, the department members, colleagues and the Board of Selectmen for their support,” said Chief Perry. “I look forward to continuing growing the department's full-time staffing levels, working toward providing our firefighters new apparatus, and continuing to improve our technology and equipment.”
- Photo courtesy of Berkley Fire and Rescue Department
Meeting the Rescuers
Ayoung resident that Duxbury Fire Dept. saved came in to meet the firefighterparamedics in person. The family wanted to take photos to rememberthis day.
- Fire News photo by Rob Reardon
foot ladder, is being replaced with a neweraerial. Its looking like both of these Maxims will be out of service before the New Year. The Castelton Laddertruck may very well be the last of the Maxim laddertrucks in service. - Fire News photos by Bud Harris
Big Boots to Fill
New Montgomery Chief
Galipeau
The newly appointed Montgomery (MA) Fire Chief ChristopherGalipeau (left) with the Mass. Hampden County Mutual Aid Secretary Fire Chief Don Morris (ret). The Hampden County Mutual Aid dinnermeeting was held in Westfield (MA) hosted by Fire Chief Patrick Egloff.
- Fire News photo by Mark Grabowski
Future firefighters trying on theirgearat the Simsbury FD open house. - Fire News photo by Mark Grabowski
North Smithfield’s Mowry Calls it a Career
Simsbury Fire and Police JuniorSummerAcademy
49-Years and Still Running
Last DinnerMeeting for Chief Dearborn
John Dearborn attending his last Hampden County Mutual Aid dinnermeeting as Longmeadow’s (MA) Fire Chief. The dinnerwas held at the Villa Napoletana Restaurant in East Longmeadow.
North Smithfield (RI) Fire Department’s Lt David Mowry worked his last shift after27-plus dedicated years to the town on September 30, 2024. His son Tom Mowry, a Woonsocket (RI) Firefighter, gave his fatherthe end of shift salute. - Fire News photos by Ken LaBelle
Simsbury Fire and Police JuniorSummerAcademy shown here with PFC TrevorBrittell at the Simsbury FD on Hopmeadow Street, Weatogue, Connecticut.
- Fire News photo by Mark Grabowski
The Pembrook (NH) Fire Department still operates this 1975 Mercedes Benz Unimog. The truck is pictured here at the Amoskeag Reseve Engine Company Fire Show on October5, 2024.
- Fire News photo by Bud Harris
- Fire News photo by Mark Grabowski
Connecticut FirefighterMemorial
On September 29, 2024, the following names were added to the Connecticut Firefighter Memorial.
Firefighter Joseph J. Gross, Sr., of the North Stonington Fire Department. LODD January 1, 2024.
Lieutenant Anthony DeSimone of the North Haven Fire Department.
LODD August 24, 2023.
Firefighter Louis L. Peters of the Willimantic Fire Department. LODD January 26, 1939.
Lieutenant James Chevalier of the Stamford Fire Department. LODD September 1, 2023. - Fire News photos by Coral Ruggiero
Dracut Chief Patterson Retires, Cunha Sworn in as Chief of Dept.
The Dracut (MA) Fire Department is pleased to report that Michael Cunha has been sworn in as the next Chief of the Department, taking over for Chief Richard Patterson, who retired after a nearly 40-year career in EMS and the fire service.
Chief Patterson began his career working as an EMTfor Baystate Ambulance in 1986. He became a call Firefighter with the Dracut Fire Department in December 1988, and a full-time Dracut Firefighter in March 1995. He was promoted to Lieutenant in 2000, Captain in 2002, and Deputy Chief in 2002. Patterson became Chief of the Department in September 2021. During his tenure he earned a Bachelor of
Science degree in Health Education, and an Associate’s degree in Fire Science.
Chief Cunha is an 18-year veteran of the Dracut Fire Department. Hired in 2006, he was promoted to provisional Lieutenant in 2015, and to Captain in 2016.
He was sworn in by Town Clerk Jayne Boissonneault, with firefighters, town officials and family in attendance. Patterson bid farewell to the department at a retirement party held at Fire Department Headquarters on Pleasant Street.
Chief Cunha thanked his wife, Jill Cunha, Chief Patterson, and all the firefighters on the department for their support and confidence.
“As your Fire Chief, I’m dedicated to fostering a culture of safety, innovation and teamwork,” Chief Cunha said after his swearing in. “We face many challenges, from increasing demands on our service to the need for ongoing training and support. We will face these challenges head-on and together. We have a great group of firefighters and a solid core of officers that I look forward to working with.”
- Submitted by Robert Mills
3 Easton Divers Earn MasterCert.
Chief Justin Alexander is proud to share that three Easton (CT) firefighters earned the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) Master Scuba Diver Certification last month.
Master Scuba Divers and Easton Firefighters Matt Ingeno, Tony Ioannidis and Lieutenant Jason Healey are members of the Bristol North Dive Team, a search-and-recovery team established in 2020 and comprised of firefighters from Easton, Franklin, North Attleborough and Norton. The team of 18 divers and five tenders utilize technical dive skills and resources such as boats and dive trucks to conduct searches and evidence recovery missions in bodies of water throughout Bristol County.
Ingeno, Ioannidis and Healey are the only members of the Bristol North Dive Team to have earned the Master Scuba Diver certification. According to PADI, less than two percent of all certified scuba divers achieve this status. Divers must complete at least eight prerequisite certifications and log a minimum of 50 dives to qualify for this achievement.
Search and recovery divers often have to conduct painstaking searches in cold water for hours, under silty conditions that impact visibility tens of feet under the surface. Eliminating daylight from the equation can make a search far more difficult and time-consuming.
“Most riverbed conditions limit how far you can see objects, sometimes even preventing you from seeing your hand in front of your face,” Lt. Healey said. “With limited visibility, we search by feel, which makes consistent training so essential.”
Firefighter Lt. Healey and members from North Attleborough and Norton fire departments participated in evidence recovery drills at Falls Pond in North Attleborough on October 10, 2024. Four divers on the team geared up in dry suits and full-face masks with communication systems to search for biodegradable clay pigeons at the bottom of the pond. Norton Firefighter Josh Wilson conducted operations from the surface, guiding divers along a tether while communicating with them underwater via headset.
“While rescue diving is a low-frequency event, it’s a high-risk environment even for the most skilled divers,” said Bristol North Dive Team Leader and North Attleborough Assistant Fire Chief George McKinnon. “We train all year to keep up our skills and to ensure that we are the most prepared when responding to water emergencies safely and effectively.”
“The dedication and effort Firefighter Matt Ingeno, Firefighter Tony Ioannidis, and Lt. Jason Healey put in to achieve this certification is truly commendable,” said Easton Fire Chief Justin Alexander. “I am incredibly proud of the work the entire team puts in every month to maintain their skills at the high level they do. We are fortunate to be part of an outstanding regional effort that makes the Bristol North Dive Team a professional and respected group.” - Submitted by Hannah Sammut
