Fire news new england 11 17

VOLUME 5, NO. 6

W W W .FIRENE WS .COM

Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Since 1973 NOVEMBER 2017

See story on page 20.

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Fire News, November 2017, Page 3

In this issue...

Witch City Fire Salem (MA) Fire Department crews responded to a two-alarm fire on Franklin Street.

See story page 7

Right Place, Right Time A North Providence (RI) EMS Rescue was clearing the hospital when they responded to another fire alarm.

See story page 10

Whitman 3-Alarmer Early on September 14, 2017, the Whitman (MA) Fire Department was alerted to a building fire on Blake See story page 15 Street.

Westport House Fire Westport (CT) firefighters tackled a fire in a 1-1/2 story wood frame home.

See story page 17

4-Alarm Condo Complex Fire Weymouth (MA) firefighters responded to a building fire on Trotter Road.

See story page 23

Obituaries;

Harrisville’s Lawrence Castonguay Pawtucket’s David W. Boisclair, Sr. See stories on page 32

PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 On the Road . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 21 Up Close and Personal . . . . . . . .pages 27 & 28 Southern New England FFs In Action . .pages 29-31 Special Features Industry News

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

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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 CLIFF CHIESA, Art Director/Production Manager Advertising Sales: BARBARA CONNOLLY, EVELYN ALOISIO Graphic Artists: GREG JONES, LYNN SEDLER CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS ALAN BRACKETT, AMANDA CARMODY, THOMAS CARMODY, OWEN CARRIGAN, ROGER CONANT, KEVIN CZARZASTY, TIM DELANEY, ROB DILLON, PATRICK DOOLEY, DOUG DOW, OLIVIA DRAKE, GLENN DUDA, LIZ FEITELBERG, JIM FORTIN, JR., SEAN FREIMAN, TIM GORMAN, JOHN HANLEY, ED HARVEY, JEFFREY HASTINGS, STEPHEN HESS, MIKE IPPOLITO, DORRANCE “DOC” JOHNSON, RICK KULMANN, KEN LABELLE, ROBERT LADD, MICHAEL LAPRADE, SCOTT LAPRADE, PAUL LAROCHELLE, JR., KEN LEGER, CHARLIE MCGRATH, KEITH MURATORI, BOB MYERS, RICK NOHL, BILL NOONAN, PETER OSTROSKEY JR., CHRIS PALMER, JIM PERUTA, PETER POZERSKI, GLENN PRESTON, ROB REARDON, LARRY RILEY, DICK SCIALABBA, PAUL SHEA, JOE SHEFER, NICK STEHN, CHRIS STEINES, RICK SUSI, KEVIN TAPPE, JON TENCA PAT TRAVERS, STEPHEN WALSH, DEVON WHALEN, KEVIN WHITE, MICHAEL YOUNG COPYRIGHT 2017, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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

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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor

Are You Prepared?

As a first responder, have you ever been involved with a mass casualty incident, a terrorist attack, or an active shooter event? Sadly, I can say that, indirectly, an active shooter changed the lives of so many people in a community I worked in for 33 years. One morning Father Larry Penzes, who was a priest in Lynbrook, New York, at Our Lady of Peace Roman Catholic Church, lost his life while conducting morning mass. I worked a block away from the church at a local school.

Swiftly the day changed at North Middle School, as we immediately went into a lockdown. This was something we had prepared for over the years. Our “go box” came out of the vault and our school prepared for a worstcase scenario as the shooter escaped and barricaded himself nearby. Other than the loss of Father Larry, the outcome was positive due to previous actions of an administration that took the time to train its staff yearly on what to do in this exact scenario.

As a first responder, have you trained how to handle an MCI involving a terrorist attack or active shooter? Watching the horrible attack of a deranged shooter in Las Vegas, I realized how well the Las Vegas Police Department was prepared for this event. I saw responders

immediately donning protective vests and helmets and working together to stabilize a very “hot” situation.

What could complicate the attack by a terrorist or active shooter? Yes, fire.

Approximately 100 incendiary devices were found at the Columbine shooting and in 2008, fire caught our attention in Mumbai, India. On the home front, fire ended the Waco hostage situation, an ex-con set a car and a house ablaze in his lakeside neighborhood in Webster, N.Y. to lure firefighters, then opened fire on them, killing two, engaging in a shootout with police and committing suicide while several homes burned. Fire ended the Waco hostage situation and in Center Moriches (New York) an individual attempted to set fire to a church where he had holed up before committing suicide.

Police throughout the country do an excellent job in protecting us and defusing hostage situations. The question is, are they prepared to fight fire should fire complicate their situation? Are we prepared to sit and watch a fire grow with innocent victims inside of the building? I thought about this after the hostage situation in my area. All of us know the flames we see in the movies do not depict real-life sit-

uations. Police officers should be familiar with the four stages of fire growth. They need to know that if they arrive to a situation where fire is present, how much time they have to execute a safe entry to save a life before conditions can instantly change and compromise their own safety.

With active shooters and terrorist situations occurring more frequently, all responders must regularly train together so that everyone goes home safely. Pray for the 59 killed in Las Vegas and pray that none of the 527-wounded pass away. Although this was a horrible tragedy, I feel the Las Vegas responders did an outstanding job handling it. My question to you is; are you prepared for a similar situation? ... Dennis

Page 6, Fire News, November 2017

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Worcester Fire Burns Ladder

On September 4, 2017, Worcester firefighters were called to Farwell Street for a building fire.

Crews arrived to find heavy fire in the back of a typical New England three-story, wood frame, balloon construction dwelling. A Mayday was called by members of Ladder 1 who had fire impinging on their aerial as they were working on the roof. They were able to get onto Ladder 2, which was set up on the other side of the house.

- Fire News photos by Paul Shea, Scott LaPrade and Paul LaRochelle

Suspicious Fire in Pawtucket

A suspicious three-alarm of fire occurred in a vacant mill building Crews were able to quickly get into the basement to knock the fire being converted into loft apartments on Beecher Street in down. Heavy smoke had to be evacuated from the entire building.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle Pawtucket (RI) on September 9, 2017. Neighbors called 911 when heavy smoke was seen from the center of the four-story complex.

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Fire News, November 2017, Page 7

Witch City Fire

Salem (MA) Fire Department crews responded to a two-alarm fire on Franklin Street on September 6, 2017.

- Fire News photos by Tom Brophy

Page 8, Fire News, November 2017

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Stafford House Fire On August 3, 2017, Stafford (CT) fire crews worked an earlymorning fire on High Street. Firefighters arrived to the house well involved.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

1 FF Injured at Belmont 2-Alarm On September 1, 2017, the Belmont (MA) Fire Department responded to a house fire. Heavy fire was visible from the rear of the dwelling on arrival. One firefighter was transported to the hospital for an unknown injury. Mutual aid to the scene came from Arlington, Cambridge and Watertown.

- Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade

2 Injured in New Haven Blaze On September 1, 2017, New Haven (CT) firefighters responded to a fire on Orange Street in a busy section of downtown with narrow streets and limited access. Firefighters arrived to find heavy fire venting from the second floor of a three-story, mixed-occupancy building with people trapped on the second floor. During the primary search, a severely burned male was found on the rear fire escape. A second alarm was transmitted due to the occupancy and heavy volume of fire. Companies made an interior attack, stretching multiple handlines, and were able to knock down fire on two floors. Trucks made the roof and performed topside ventilation. Multiple propane tanks were found on the second floor fueling the blaze. One additional civilian was transported to the hospital with smoke inhalation. The burn victim was transferred to the burn unit of Bridgeport Hospital. The cause of the fire was under investigation.

- Fire News photo by Glenn Duda, CFPA

Lawrence 2-Alarmer

On Wednesday morning October 4, 2017, Lawrence firefighters, along with mutual aid from Methuen and Andover fought a 2 alarm fire in the “Christ is Coming Church� on Lowell St. On arrival, crews had smoke showing from the large 3 story equivalent wood frame church. Heavy fire conditions on the first floor had already extended into the attic area and threatened occupied dwellings on both the B and D sides of the church. With an aggressive interior attack, firefighters were able to bring the fire under control and limited the damage to just the building of origin. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

- Fire News photo by Kevin White

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A passing motorist reported smoke coming from a commercial building at South Main and Piedmont Streets in Waterbury’s South End. Engine 4 arrived to heavy smoke showing on all sides of the Discount Furniture Store on South Main. Companies used forcible entry to gain access and made a quick search for two occupants who were said to be living in the business. With no one found, companies went to work attempting to reach the fire in a maze of furniture and

Fire News, November 2017, Page 9

zero-visibility conditions. Truck 3 went to the roof to attempt vertical ventilation. As the building pushed out dense black smoke, heavy flames vented from the roof and evacuation tones were sounded and all companies were ordered out. Master streams were deployed and Truck 1 and 3 began water tower operations.

Companies battled the fire for several hours.

- Fire News photo by Kevin Czarzasty

Page 10, Fire News, November 2017

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Right Place, Right Time On October 2, 2017, a North Providence (RI) EMS Rescue was clearing the hospital when they heard a local fire alarm going off on Douglas Avenue. The crew found heavy smoke from all floors of a three-story, wood frame taxpayer with occupied apartments above. The OIC requested a second alarm due to the reports of possible trapped occupants and the overall size of the building.

Residents had to be assisted down the fire escape as the fire units arrived. The fire started in a second floor bedroom and had minor extension to adjoining rooms. The fire was brought under control in about 20 minutes.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

Shelton Explosion, Fire On September 7, 2017, Shelton (CT) Fire Companies 1 and 4 were dispatched to Edgewood Avenue for a structure fire following reports of an explosion. First arriving members found a heavily involved detached garage with an injured resident who had been taken across the street to safety. The fire was quickly knocked down and the cause of the explosion was being investigated. Twenty-oneyear old Joe Tremblay was the injured party and was undergoing a daunting recovery from serious burns to his face and body. To donate to the Tremblay family visit: www.gofundme.com/helpsupport-joe-tremblay.

- Fire News photo by Keith Muratori

4 FFs Injured in New Haven Blaze Four New Haven (CT) firefighters were hospitalized with non life-threatening injuries at a stubborn twoalarm blaze in Baker’s Package Store on Ferry Street on August 11, 2017. The fire completely gutted the interior of the store. The business was one of two that occupied the single-story brick and masonry structure. The delicatessen adjacent to the package store sustained heavy smoke and water damage. New Haven Mayor Toni Harp and Chief John Alston, praised firefighters for their swift action immediately after the fire was brought under control.

- Fire News photo by Doc Johnson

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Fire News, November 2017, Page 11

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Stamford 5-Alarm

On September 25, 2017, Stamford (CT) firefighters were dispatched to Alden Street for a structure fire.

First arriving units found the back of the house fully involved on all floors. Big lines were quickly stretched and put to work. An interior attack was attempted but water supply issues forced units back out of the building and a second alarm followed. The fire than extended into an exposure building with fire coming out of the attic. Congestion on the small street made access difficult. Due to extensive overhaul and the extreme heat, extra alarms were called for relief and manpower. Before fire units arrived, neighbors from a next door home raised a home ladder and helped two residents off the roof of the burning home.

- Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com

Fire Damages Historic Homes Just after midnight on August 9, 2017, the Newport (RI) Fire Department was dispatched for a reported structure fire on Second Street.

Upon arrival companies had fire showing from the rear of a house. Due to the homes being close together the fire quickly spread to the house next door. All residents made it out safely, but a dog died in the fire. Both homes damaged were listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

- Fire News photo by Chris Palmer

Duxbury Brush Fire Duxbury (MA) Fire Department firefighters recently responded to a three-acre brush fire off Cherry Lane in Duxbury.

- Fire News photo by Rob Reardon

Page 14, Fire News, November 2017

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Westborough 2-Alarmer

A second-alarm fire damaged a house on John Pratt Circle in Westborough (MA) on August 31, 2017. Companies were clearing a brush fire when the call for a house fire came in. Car 2 arrived and reported heavy smoke showing from a two-story attached garage. A second alarm was requested, bringing Grafton, Hopkinton, Southborough and Westborough to the scene.

Southborough Tower 21 was ordered to ladder the roof and Engine 4 stretched a handline to the interior. Crews encountered heavy fire conditions on the second floor. A Marlborough engine was special called above the second alarm. Companies were on scene into the night chasing hot spots and overhauling. This was the second fire of the day for Westborough after responding to Hopkinton’s fire earlier in the afternoon.

- Fire News photo by Jim Fortin, Jr.

3 Dwellings Go in Bridgeport On September 30, 2017, Bridgeport (CT) firefighters responded to multiple calls for two dwellings on fire on Lee Street in the city’s West Side. A second alarm was transmitted by Battalion Chief John McNichols, as companies rapidly set up multiple handlines and master streams. The fire quickly extended to the number two and four side exposures. Firefighters attempted to make an interior attack on the number four side exposure, but were driven out by heavy interior fire. The fire took about two hours to bring under control. Three dwellings were occupied leaving many families homeless. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

There were no injuries reported.

- Fire News photo by Glenn Duda, CFPA

Pittsfield Triple Decker Fire On September 10, 2017, Pittsfield (MA) Fire Department Local 2647’s C-Group battled a fire in a triple decker in Pittsfield.

- Submitted by Devon Whalen; photo courtesy of Pittsfield Fire Facebook

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Whitman 3-Alarmer

Early on September 14, 2017, the Whitman (MA) Fire Department was alerted to a building fire on Blake Street. Engine-243, Ladder246, Car-3 and an automatic mutual aid engine from Abington responded. Companies arrived to find heavy fire showing from a 2-1/2 story, wood framed, occupied dwelling. All occupants were reported out. A Blitz gun was immediately stretched and put into operation to knock down the heavy fire on the A and D sides.

Deputy Chief Joseph Feeney requested a second alarm. Crews stretched multiple handlines knocking the heavy fire on the outside of the structure before making entry. Crews were able to knock down the majority of the fire within approximately 45-minutes but continued to chase hot spots and knock down hidden pockets of fire for several hours. A third alarm was struck for relief purposes, bringing crews in from across Plymouth County. Mutual aid came from Abington, Bridgewater, Brockton, East Bridgewater, Hanson, Hanover, Rockland, and West Bridgewater. Units responded to the scene, as well as for station coverage. The Massachusetts Department of Fire Services rehab unit, as well as the Whitman CERT Rehab unit also responded - Fire News photos by Pat Travers

Fire News, November 2017, Page 15

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Car Fire in Centerville

Firefighters responded to a car fire on Lumbert Mill Road in Centerville (MA) on Cape Cod on September 20, 2017.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

Thomaston Catches Northfield 2-Alarmer

On September 7, 2017, Thomaston (CT) volunteers were originally dispatched for a fully involved house on High Street Ext. in their town. With nothing found, they continued to investigate over the town line onto Campville Road in Northfield. The first Northfield officer on scene reported a fully involved 2-1/2 story dwelling under renovation and requested Thomaston’s ladder, engine, and tanker. Additional tankers were dispatched from Bantam, Litchfield, East Litchfield and Harwinton. With the building so well involved prior to arrival and the rear already collapsed, there was little left to do but take up a defensive posture. The structure, which was under renovation, was a total loss.

- Fire News photo by Kevin Czarzasty

Fall River Fire On August 5, 2017, the Fall River (MA) Fire Department responded to Maple Street for a fire.

Engines 2, 9 and 12; Ladder 4; Platform 1; and Car 2 responded. Firefighters made an aggressive attack on the three-story wood frame dwelling with smoke showing from the third floor.

- Fire News photo by Ken Leger

Structure Fire in Hinsdale On August 27, 2017, the Hinsdale (MA) Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched to Plunkett Avenue for a structure fire. Engine 2 and 3, Squad 1, and Rehab 9 under the command of Chief Larry Turner, responded with 13 firefighters. Crews were met with heavy fire on both the C and D sides of a 1-½ story Cape Cod. Chief Turner requested a second alarm, bringing in Dalton for station coverage and a Becket engine to the scene. Engine 2 stretched two 1-3/4 inch handlines; one to the interior first floor to cut off further advance and one for the exterior of the C-D area where a one-story 15- x 15-foot addition was fully involved and its roof had collapsed. The blaze was under control within 45 minutes.

- Fire News photo by Dick Scialabba

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Fire News, November 2017, Page 17

Westport House Fire

On September 16, 2017, Westport (CT) firefighters responded to Saugatuck Avenue for a fire in a 1-1/2 story wood frame. Engine 4 arrived to heavy fire showing on the second floor, B side. As the fire progressed, evacuation tones sounded and companies went to exterior operations with a ladder pipe from Norwalk Truck 2. Soon, companies re-entered, but a second evacuation was sounded as heavy fire ripped through the attic. Mutual aid was provided by Norwalk, Fairfield, Stamford and Weston, and Wilton for station coverage.

- Fire News photos by Griffin Stover

Page 18, Fire News, November 2017

Busy in Hartford

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On September 15, 2017, Hartford (CT) firefighters received multiple calls for a building fire in the area of Farmington Avenue and Gillett Street. First arriving units found a vacant building with 25 percent of the rear building on fire on all floors. Units had to cut a chain link fence to gain access. A second alarm was transmitted to help with the evacuation of nearby occupied buildings. Three tower ladders and many handlines were put into operation to extinguish the fire. Firefighters remained on scene for several hours.

- Fire News photo by Jim Peruta, CFPA

Two Hartford (CT) firefighters were injured when they were struck by falling debris during a two-alarm fire on Main Street on September 23, 2017. The pair were injured when a portion of a facade fell as they were attempting to gain entry to the building.

The fire gutted the large three-story brick building and caused the roof on the third floor to collapse. The building was vacant and in a state of disrepair at the time of the fire.

- Fire News photo by Doc Johnson

On September 28, 2017, Hartford (CT) firefighters arrived to find a fully involved garage fire on Oakland Terrace.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

On August 24, 2017, Hartford (CT) firefighters responded to a fire on Hillside Avenue.

- Fire News photo by Jim Peruta, CFPA

On September 20, 2017, Hartford (CT) firefighters responded to Willard Street in the city’s West End for a building fire. Arriving units found smoke showing and heavy smoke in the building.

A second alarm was quickly called to help with evacuation of the residents. A fire was found in one of the units and an occupant was removed and brought to the hospital.

- Fire News photo by Jim Peruta, CFPA

On August 6, 2017, Hartford (CT) firefighters responded to a fire on Loomis Street in the city’s North End. - Fire News photo by Jim Peruta, CFPA

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Page 20, Fire News, November 2017

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Cover Story

Spencer 3-Alarmer

On August 3, 2017, Spencer firefighters were called to Kitteridge Road for a building fire. Chief Parsons arrived to find a singlestory wood frame residence fully involved. The house was located in an area not serviced by the hydrant system. Numerous communities were called in for mutual aid to help extinguish the fire and to help establish a water supply. The fire went to three alarms before it was brought under control.

- Fire News photos by Paul Shea

(Above): North Brookfield Fire Chief Brad Gannon gets some welcomed help from North Brookfield Police Sergeant David Churchey. The Sergeant once served as a call man on Spencer Fire.

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Fire News, November 2017, Page 21

Bomb Scare at Providence Public Safety Complex

Fire News On the Road: Fort Worth, Texas

On the morning of September 14, 2017, a package was delivered to the Providence (RI) Municipal Court, causing the evacuation of the court and other parts of the complex. The Providence Public Safety Complex houses the Municipal Court and is home to the Providence Police Department and Fire Department, including Engine 3, Ladder 1, Special Hazards 1, Rescue 6 and Division 1, as well as the Administrative staff of the PFD. After the package was identified, the Rhode Island Bomb Squad was requested. Members of the fire department deemed the device non-radioactive and members of the bomb squad removed the package and detonated it in the parking lot. The package was determined to be non-explosive.

- Fire News photo by Tom Carmody

On August 17, 2017, Fort Worth (TX) firefighters fought a fivealarm fire in a warehouse. The fire was in a section that contained plastic and vinyl furniture. Residents were asked to stay indoors to avoid the toxic fumes. The department was on scene until the following day.

- Fire News photo by Jim Peruta, CFPA

Page 22, Fire News, November 2017

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Littleton MVA On September 25, 2017, Littleton (MA) firefighters responded to an MVA on Interstate 495 involving a tractor-trailer, a dump truck and auto.

- Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade

Waterbury MVA Extrication On August 17, 2017, the Waterbury (CT) Fire Department responded to Meriden Road and National Avenue for a car versus wheelchair van MVA with one victim trapped in the car. Crews had to do a rapid extrication on arrival due to serious injuries incurred.

- Fire News photo by Rick Kulmann

Route 3 MVA Duxbury and Marshfield (MA) firefighters recently responded to an MVA on Route 3 North between exit 11 and 12.

The vehicle rolled over into the woods. A male and a child self extricated. The female driver was trapped and units utilized hydraulic tools to extricate the woman.

- Fire News photo by John Sjostedt

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Fire News, November 2017, Page 23

4-Alarm Condo Complex Fire

Early on September 14, 2017, the Weymouth (MA) Fire Department responded to a building fire on Trotter Road in the Union Point development. Crews arrived to find heavy fire tearing through a large, 200- x 50-foot, four-story condominium complex under construction. Crews had to stretch feeder lines over the MBTA commuter rail tracks in order to get a good water supply. A second alarm was struck on-arrival, followed soon after by third and fourth alarms. Companies utilized deck guns and ladder pipes to protect the exposures and knock down the heavy fire conditions, which tore through the roof. Mutual aid came from Quincy,

Braintree, Rockland, Avon, Hull, Hingham, Holbrook and Stoughton. Companies continued to pour water on the complex throughout the day. Paths were dug under the commuter rail lines so that feeder lines wouldn’t interfere with the MBTA’s operation.

This fire is one of several which destroyed buildings that were under construction in Massachusetts this year. Earlier in the year fires in Boston and Waltham destroyed residential projects that were not yet completed. The cause of the blaze is under investigation.

- Fire News photos by Pat Travers and Bob Myers

Auburn Requires Fiery MC Accident the Whole Tool Box Claims Life in Weymouth

Auburn firefighters responded to Southbridge Street on August 5, 2017. It was uncertain what caused the spectacular accident, which pinned the operator for over an hour while crews methodically removed parts of the car. Auburn firefighters drove the ambulance while paramedics from Worcester EMS worked on the victim.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

On August 10, 2017, the Weymouth and Rockland Fire Departments (MA) responded to a motorcycle accident on Shea Memorial Boulevard near Bill Delahunt Parkway in the Union Point area of the two towns, the former South Weymouth Naval Air Base. Weymouth Police arrived first on-scene and reported a car versus motorcycle, with both vehicles on fire. Fire crews arrived and found a fully involved vehicle and motorcycle. The motorcycle driver suffered serious injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. A female passenger on the motorcycle was transported to Massachusetts General Hospital with serious injuries via Rockland Ambulance-2, with an additional paramedic aboard. The occupants of the vehicle were out of the vehicle, and were seen speaking with EMS and police.

- Fire News photo by Pat Travers

Page 26, Fire News, November 2017

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SUV Into the Housatonic

On August 29, 2017, companies from Seymour, Derby, and Shelton (CT) were dispatched to Roosevelt Drive in Seymour for a reported vehicle off the road and down into the Housatonic River. It was also reported that three people were in the vehicle, and then quickly updated that all had self extricated. Injuries appeared to be minor in nature and the vehicle was quickly removed from the water.

- Fire News photo by Keith Muratori

New Struts at Work On June 13, 2017, Charlton (MA) firefighters were called to an MVA on Route 20 at Old Worcester Road. Surprisingly enough there were only minor injuries. This accident was the first call for Charlton’s new rescue struts that were donated by Boombas Towing. They were put to good use.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

Southington Multi-Car MVA On August 23, 2017, Southington (CT) firefighters, Connecticut State Police and AMR responded to I84 westbound at exit 28 for a multiple car MVA with several injuries, an overturn and one extrication required.

- Fire News photo by Rick Kulmann

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Fire News, November 2017, Page 27

Up Close & Personal

Echo Hose Firefighter Andrew Toth operating at a recent all-hands fire on Edgewood Avenue in Shelton (CT) on September 7, 2017.

- Fire News photo by Keith Muratori

Pawtucket Firefighter Dave Taylor working his first fire with his uncle, Lieutenant AJ Bergeron, a 15-year veteran of the department. - Fire News photo by Tim Delaney Operation SCORE. From September 15 to 17, 2017, the Fire Chiefs Association of Massachusetts (FCAM), the Massachusetts National Guard, and the Massachusetts Homeland Security Regions sponsored a terrorism based emergency response exercise at Joint Base Cape Cod, located in Bourne (MA).

- Fire News photo by Rob Reardon

Abington (MA) Firefighters Justin Silva and Chris Cotti take a break at a three-alarm fire in Whitman on September 14, 2017.

- Fire News photo by Pat Travers

Page 28, Fire News, November 2017

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Up Close & Personal

A Squad 1 lieutenant at a Douglas Avenue fire on October 2, 2017.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

Hartford (CT) firefighters in exterior ops at a long-vacant Main Street structure fire. Two firefighters were injured. - Fire News photo by Jim Peruta, CFPA

Steve Favouli (ret.) of Ladder 1, Lt. Harold Rodriguez and Leo Gauthier (ret.) on scene of a September 4, 2017, Farrell Street two-alarmer.

- Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade

A memorial ceremony held on September 8, 2017, at the Massachusetts Statehouse in Ashburton Park, Boston, honoring the state’s fallen.

- Fire News photo by Liz Feitelberg

Worcester (MA) Engine 3 Group 4 (right to left) Firefighter Charest, Captain Roche, Firefighters Genatossio-Laud and Barrett. - Fire News photo by Paul LaRochelle

Three Pawtucket firefighters after a suspicious fire on Beecher Street on September 9, 2017.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

Lawrence Engine 5 Firefighter Felix Ferreira at a fire on Sunset Avenue.

Belmont Chief of Department David Frizzell.

- Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade

- Fire News photo by Kevin White Two Hartford (CT) firefighters after a garage fire on Oakland Terrace.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

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Fire News, November 2017, Page 29

Southern New England Firefighters in Action

stopped.

Hanson (MA) garage fire Travers - Fire News photo by Pat

Milford (CT) storage uni - Fire News photo by Ken t fire.

LaBelle

On August 25, 2017, Vernon (CT) firefighters responded to a house fire on Hartford Turnpike.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley On September 1, 2017, Wolco to a two-car MVA at the tt (CT) firefighters responded intersection of Todd Ro ad and Garrigus Court. - Fire News photo by Rick Ku lmann

Page 30, Fire News, November 2017

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Southern New England Firefighters in Action

fighters were 7, Providence (RI) fire Early on August 12, 201 d floor of thir the on fire a of dispatched for a report re. ctu stru a Valley Street ris Palmer - Fire News photo by Ch

The Hopkinton (MA) Fire Department received multiple calls for a structure fire on Wood Street on August 31, 2017.

- Fire News photo Jim Fortin, Jr.

Hartford (CT) TAC, En gine 8 MVA on July 7, 2017, on and Ladder 6 work an Wethersfi - Fire News photo by Pau eld Avenue. l Shea

On August 24, 2017, We st Hartford (CT an apartment fire on Arn ) crews responded to - Fire News photo by Pat old Way. rick Dooley

Vandals broke into a mill building in Woonsocket (RI) on Privilege Street on August 21, 2017, and dumped out several barrels of chemicals on the floors.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

rm fire on ters worked a three-ala Millbury (MA) firefigh 7.

201 22, t gus Wheelock Avenue on Au l Shea - Fire News photo by Pau

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Fire News, November 2017, Page 31

Southern New England Firefighters in Action Early on September 27, 2017, South Windsor (CT) firefighters responded to the Blue Hills section of Bloomfield for a construction dumpster fire involved with damage to two houses. Mutual aid also assisted at this scene. eers, along Bethlehem (CT) volunt odbury, On September 11, 2017, Wo and n, tow ter Wa , rris with mutual aid from Mo l involved barn fire. extinguished a wel in Czarzasty - Fire News photo by Kev

On August 27, 2017, Fitchburg (MA) firefighters were called to the scene of a vacant dwelling fire.

- Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

On September 24, 2017, East Hartford (CT) res pon a two-alarm fire on Tol land Street for a well inv ded to olved car on a lift inside a comme rcial building.

- Fire News photo by Pat rick Dooley

Page 32, Fire News, November 2017

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Obituary

Harrisville’s Lawrence Castonguay

Lawrence Castonguay, a 44-year veteran of the Harrisville (RI) Fire District, was killed in a car crash in Gloucester on August 30, 2017. Castonguay’s wife, Marie, was driving when a car veered into the lane of travel striking the couple’s truck. She went off the road and hit a tree. The couple were extricated from their vehicle and taken to Rhode Island Hospital, where Castonguay was pronounced. Marie remains in serious condition at Rhode Island Hospital.

Continuing a long-standing tradition, Castonguay’s casket was brought to the church on a fire truck.

- Fire News photos by Ken LaBelle

Pawtucket’s David W. Boisclair,Sr., - LODD

The Pawtucket (RI) Fire Department mourned the Line of Duty Death (LODD) of Firefighter David W. Boisclair, Sr. Boisclair retired from the Pawtucket Fire Department in June 2016 after 28 years of faithful service to the community, and regretfully passed away from occupational cancer on September 7, 2017.

Boisclair served in the US Navy, and was a member of the Pawtucket Firefighters Local 1261. Pawtucket Union President Will Maher said, “Dave was a firefighter’s firefighter; he was always there for anyone, from any department. If your department had a funeral or an event, chances are, Dave was there.”

Boisclair’s family has a rich history in public service. He followed his father, Chief Francis W. Boisclair (ret.) on to the Pawtucket Fire Department. His brother retired as a Sergeant from the Pawtucket Police Department, and his son is a Deputy Sheriff in Osceola County, Florida.

- Fire News photos by Ken LaBelle

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Fire News, November 2017, Page 33

Operation SCORE

From September 15 to 17, 2017, the Fire Chiefs Association of Massachusetts (FCAM), the Massachusetts National Guard, and the Massachusetts Homeland Security Regions sponsored a terrorism based emergency response exercise at Joint Base Cape Cod, located in Bourne (MA). This 72-hour full-scale exercise, known as Operation SCORE (Statewide Collapse Operations Response Exercise) was designed to test interagency cooperation, communications interoperability, operational coordination in a mass search and rescue operation, medical care in a hostile environment, and long term sustainability in an interagency response environment.

The exercise brought together approximately 350 members of regional technical rescue teams from across Massachusetts, 200 personnel from the Massachusetts National Guard, as well as staff from the Department of Fire Services (DFS) and the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA).

It is the third in a series of five full-scale mobilization exercises being conducted to challenge and assess the fire services statewide technical rescue capability, as well as interagency cooperation between the

teams, the Massachusetts National Guard Homeland Response Task Force, and the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services Hazardous Materials Teams.

Each region was given a 12-hour operational period working in two venues consisting of a large school complex and village that sustained a vehicle IED (improvised explosive device) attack. To add to the scenario, a weather event causing a microburst came through the areas in the fourth operational period. Teams were evaluated through contracted services to ensure important strength and weaknesses were documented so as to develop a sound after-action report.

Operation SCORE was the culmination of over a year of planning.

- Fire News story by Exercise Director Chief Kevin Nord of the Duxbury Fire Department and Chair, FCAM Technical Rescue Committee; photos by Rob Reardon

Page 34, Fire News, November 2017

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Hindsdale Training On August 8, 2017, Kevin Hannigan of Firematic Supply (left) conducted a training class using Res-Q-Jack stabilization equipment and Vetter air bags. The stabilization equipment plus two Hurst e-draulic cutters and a spreader were purchased using a 2017 AFG grant and matching funds from the Town of Hinsdale (MA). Twenty firefighters attended the training session.

- Fire News photo by Dick Scialabba

Cranston Lifting Drill On August 24, 2017, the members of the Cranston (RI) Fire Department’s Special Hazards performed a lifting drill. A FEMA FOG Manual was used to approximate the weight of the concrete to be lifted. Once the weight was figured, the proper size air bags were chosen and enough cribbing to perform the lift was removed from the apparatus to perform the lift.

- Fire News photo by Tom Carmody

Extrication Training in Worcester Members of Worcester (MA) Rescue 1 do some rapid auto extrication training.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

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Fire News, November 2017, Page 35

Paxton and Leicester at Live Burn Members of the Leicester (MA) Fire Department (left), and members of Paxton and Leicester (below) at a recent live burn in Paxton (MA).

- Fire News photos by Paul Shea

Probies Drill in Woonsocket Worcester (MA) probationary firefighters work with Lieutenant Paul LaRochelle (Fire News correspondent) on roof operations at the fire training grounds on August 30, 2017. The recruits used saws, threw ground ladders, and talked of different types of roof construction.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

Injured Rigger Drill in Worcester Worcester MA Group 2 Tech Rescue Team working high above the floor at the DCU Center during an injured rigger drill.

- Fire News photo by Paul LaRochelle

Page 36, Fire News, November 2017

Taftville Hosts CSFA Convention and Parade

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Taftville (CT) Volunteer Fire Department (Norwich) hosted the Convention on September 15, 16, and 17, 2017.

134th annual Connecticut State Firefighters Association - Fire News photos by Joe Shefer

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Fire News, November 2017, Page 37

Worcester Annual Bagpipe Parade

Worcester held its annual Bagpipe Parade in memory of the six Worcester firefighters killed in the Worcester Cold Storage Fire, and in memory of Bill McGuirk, who passed away August 5, 2015, a pastLieutenant of Worcester Fire Department and brother of Joseph

McGuirk, one of the six killed in the December 3, 1999, fire. The parade was composed of Worcester Firefighters Pipes and Drums, the New Hampshire Fire Pipes and Drums, and the Connecticut Firefighters Pipes and Drums. - Fire News photos by Liz Feitelberg

Page 38, Fire News, November 2017

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Norwood’s Breen Calls it a Career Norwood (MA) Firefighter Richard ‘Dickie’ Breen retired on August 31, 2017, after 34 years on the line.

Chief Tony Greeley wished Breen good health and happiness in his recent retirement.

Newington Wetdown

On September 10, 2017, the Newington (CT) Fire Department held department. After Chief Schroeder christened the rescue, residents an apparatus christening party at their headquarters. Department threw water balloons at the apparatus as a form of a wetdown.

- Fire News photos by Glenn Duda, CFPA members and citizens welcomed a new rescue and pumper to the

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Fire News, November 2017, Page 39

Wachusett League Muster

On Father’s Day 2017, Sterling (MA) Fire hosted the annual Wachusett League Muster.

The Wachusett League is made up by the Bolton, Boylston, Havard, Holden, Princeton, Sterling and West Boylston Fire Departments.

- Fire News photos by Paul Shea

Cambridge Remembers 9/11 The members of the Cambridge (MA) Fire Department assigned to Engine 4 and Squad 4 remember the lives lost on September 11, 2001.

- Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan

Fall River 9/11 Memorial Service

Memorial service for 9/11 held in Fall River (MA) for Bristol County residents.

- Fire News photos by Ken Leger

Page 40, Fire News, November 2017

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Well, the Baby Was On Time

Fundraising for MDA

Duxbury (MA) Fire Department paramedics assisted in the delivery of a healthy baby boy in the back of the ambulance en route to the hospital.

- Fire News photo by Rob Reardon

Leominster Fire Chairman Benjamin Brideau and MDA Fundraiser Coordinator Michelle Murphy working to put an end to Muscular Dystrophy.

- Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade

UConn Fire Gets New Tower

Arlington Donates to Puerto Rico

UConn Fire-Rescue, located on the main campus of the University of Connecticut (Storrs, CT), re c e n t l y re p l a c e d i t s Tower 122. The new Tower 122 is a 104-foot rearmount aerial, and now sports the University of Connecticut’s school colors. The new apparatus has a 1500-gpm pump, 300-gallon tank, and an eight-kWh hydraulic generator. The unit also has technical rescue capabilities including below-grade reach.

- Fire News photo by Rob Babcock

9/11 Steel in Fall River

On September 11, 2017, the Fall River (MA) Fire Museum opened its doors so residents could view the steel artifact recovered from the wreckage of the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001.

- Fire News photo by Ken Leger

The Members of the Arlington (MA) Fire Department, Local 1297 of the IAFF, with the blessings of Chief Robert Jefferson, collected numerous items for the hurricane struck people of Puerto Rico. A member of the Arlington Fire Department has family members who were affected by the storm which devastated Puerto Rico.

- Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan

The Future of the Duxbury FD

The future of the fire service. Duxbury Fire Department interns Nick Stehn, Will Kelso and Tyler Reardon after responding to a building fire.

- Fire News photo by Rob Reardon

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Fire News, November 2017, Page 41

Engine 260 Muster

The 46th annual Engine 260 Muster was held in Milford (CT) on September 9, 2017.

- Fire News photos by Glenn Duda, CFPA

Page 42, Fire News, November 2017

FDNY Jet Blue Visits Worcester

This Jet Blue Airbus was a special guest visitor to Worcester Airport recently. The FDNY painted airbus had never been to Worcester before.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

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In Honor of David Boisclair Pawtucket (RI) Firefighter Adam Kestler and others are wearing blue ribbons to honor Firefighter David ‘Boss’ Boisclair, a 28-year v e t e r a n o f t h e department who passed away on September 7, 2017. The photo was taken at a third alarm on Beecher Street on September 9, 2017.

- Fire News photo

by Tim Delaney

Fire Prevention for the Future

Hyannis Gets New Tower Truck

Attending the fire prevention booth at the “Big E” Exposition at the West Springfield (MA) Fairgrounds were some future firefighters from Western Massachusetts with Chicopee Fire Prevention Officer Katie Collins Kalbaugh.

- Fire News photo by Mark Grabowski

In August 2017, the Hyannis (MA) Fire Department put into service a 2017 Pierce Arrow XT 100-foot tower truck to replace the existing tower truck, which was over 20-years old. The new apparatus is designated LT829. - Fire News photo by Rick Kulmann

The Boys Are Back in Town

Duxbury Texas Bound for Hurricane Relief

Fire News photographer Scott LaPrade (right) used to ride at Rescue 2 with Lt. Donald Mullen (ret.) and his son Captain Michael Mullen (center) of Tower Ladder 10.

- Fire News photo courtesy of Scott LaPrade

Duxbury (MA) Captain Brian Monahan and Firefighter John Montosi drove a trailer full of supplies from Duxbury to Texas to help with Hurricane Harvey recovery efforts.

- Fire News photo by Buzz Wadsworth

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Fire News, November 2017, Page 43

Remembering Connecticut’s Fallen

On September 24, 2017, Connecticut fire service members, dignitaries, and families gathered to honor the state’s fallen firefighters at the Connecticut Fire Academy, home of the Connecticut Fallen Firefighter’s Memorial. Even though no new names were added to the sacred walls of the memorial this year, uniformed personnel and the public joined together to remember and honor the fallen heroes

of years past. Lieutenant Governor Nancy Wyman and Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection Commissioner Dora Schriro attended, as did many fire service leaders. Connecticut’s fire service members vow to never forget their fallen brothers and sisters.

- Fire News photos by Coral Ruggiero

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Promotions, Awards in Worcester

Promoted members and commendation recipients with city and county officials.

Members of Ladder 3 getting commendations.

Newly promoted Lieutenant Will Mosley.

Newly promoted District Chief Gary Fleischer with his daughter Emily.

District Chief Sam Richesson (left) and newly promoted District Chief Gary Fleischer. Both were once callmen together in the nearby town of Northboro.

On August 30, 2017, the Worcester (MA) Fire Department held a promotional ceremony at City Hall. There were three promotions.

Firefighter Will Mosley was promoted to Lieutenant; Lieutenant Terrence Boudin was promoted to Captain; Captain Gary Fleischer was promoted to District Chief. District Chief Fleischer will be in charge of Special Operations. Prior to the promotions commenda-

tions were presented to members of Ladder 3, Group 3 for a rescue made at a second alarm fire on Grosvenor Street a few nights prior.

Lieutenant Bill Dowd along with Firefighters Ronald Wylie and Dan Gagne received commendations for their heroic efforts rescuing a victim from the roof of the building.

- Fire News photos by Paul Shea

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Fire News, November 2017, Page 45

10th Annual Fallen Firefighters Memorial Ceremony

A memorial ceremony was held on Friday, September 8, 2017, at the Massachusetts Statehouse in Ashburton Park, Boston, honoring the state’s fallen.

- Fire News photos by Liz Feitelberg

Page 46, Fire News, November 2017

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Auburn Celebrates 100 Years

At the Auburn (MA) annual awards dinner Chief Coleman presented a unit citation (above) to Firefighters Conway, Davis, Nicholson, O’Brien, and Captains Brigham and Steele for the lifesaving rescue of a six-year old in cardiac arrest.

(Right): At the dinner, Firefighter Scott Davis was awarded Firefighter of the Year. Here he poses with his grandmother.

- Fire News photos by Paul LaRochelle

Life Saving Awards

Cumberland (RI) Fire Engine 4, Engine 5, and Lincoln Rescue 2 had a code save on July 3, 2017. The members each received a Life Saving Meritorious Award. Also, Probationary Firefighter John Rei IV was sworn in after the award ceremony. (Left) Lincoln, RI Fire Medic Mike Gleason gets his Life Saver award pinned by his fianance.

- Fire News photos by Ken LaBelle

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Fire News, November 2017, Page 47

FDNY CAPT. CERIELLO TO PRESENT KEYNOTE ADDRESS AT FIREHOUSE EXPO IN NASHVILLE

Firehouse Expo is proud to announce this year’s Keynote undertone persisting that attempts to undermine these advancements.

Presenter is Capt. John Ceriello with the FDNY. Ceriello’s presenta- What is that force? That force is us, the inherently flawed human being. tion, “Pulling Back the Curtain: A Cautionary “When we speak of bravery, it can come in Tale,” will kick-off Firehouse Expo 2017. The many forms. Do you have the courage to look Opening Ceremony and Keynote Presentation behind the curtain, to question what you have will begin at 0815, Thursday, October 19, 2017, been taught, to embrace the new-found knowlin the Davidson Ballroom at the Music City edge and to become the best firefighter you can Center. be?”

Ceriello says, “This is an exciting time to be in Captain Ceriello is a 29-year veteran of the the fire service, because there has never been as FDNY, with 14 of those years in Special many resources at our disposal to better Operations Command. He has been an integral understand the profession of firefighting. part in the FDNY and NIST Wind-Impacted Fires Manufacturers are investing in products that will Project that introduced stairwell pressurization, change our abilities and engineers are delving wind-control devices and high-rise nozzles into into the essence of what fire is and how it reacts the field. Ceriello is on the UL Firefighter Safety to the world around us. There is a great deal of positive energy as departments retool their tactics, yet there is an Research advisory panel for a number of projects.

TERRY FARRELL FUND HOSTS JIM BEAM-SPONSORED PARTY AT EXPO The Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund will hold a Jim Beam Sponsored Firehouse Expo Party on Thursday, October 19, 2017, from 2000 to 2300 at the Tin Roof Bar, 316 Broadway, Nashville, TN. The Tin Roof Bar, along with Jim Beam, will host a variety of drink specials, Beam promotions, and various other Terry Fund prizes and give-a-ways. The Terry Fund party is the only firefighter-themed party for Firehouse Expo 2017. Please join us for a night of fun and brotherhood with an organization that is specifically for firefighters and first responders.