Fire News, New England, March 2019 edition

VOLUME 6, NO. 8

W W W .FIRENE WS .COM

Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Since 1973 MARCH 2019

See story on pages 28 & 29.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

Fire News Welcomes all to the FCAM Professional Development Conference -Southern New England Edition-

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Fire News, March 2019, Page 3

In this issue...

2 Injured in Waterbury Multi-Family Blaze Waterbury (CT) firefighters were dispatched for a structure fire with injured victims on January 22, 2019.

See story on page 6

3 Homes Destroyed in Lowell Fire Lowell (MA) firefighters were alerted to a house fire on Arthur Street on Thanksgiving night.

See story on page 11

Fast Moving Blaze Guts East Putnam Auto Shop East Putnam (CT) firefighters were alerted to a reported building fire at Baker’s Auto on the Providence Pike.

See story on page 14

Woonsocket Fire Fought Defensively A very stubborn fire occurred on Woodland Street in Woonsocket (RI) on January 12, 2019.

See story on page 15

Fatal Fall River Apartment Blaze On New Year’s Day 2019, Fall River (MA) Engines were dispatched to a fire at the Four Winds Apartment Complex.

See story on page 18

Cumberland 3-Alarmer On February 14, 2019, Cumberland (RI) firefighters fought a smoky threealarm fire on High Street.

See story on page 19

PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 4 Up Close & Personal . . . . . . . . . . . pages 25-27 Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 30 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 41 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 42

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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, Graphic Artists: GREG JONES, LYNN SEDLER CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS ALAN BRACKETT, AMANDA CARMODY, THOMAS CARMODY, OWEN CARRIGAN, KEVIN CZARZASTY, JOHN DEFOREST, TIM DELANEY, ROB DILLON, PATRICK DOOLEY, DOUG DOW, OLIVIA DRAKE, GLENN DUDA, LIZ FEITELBERG, JIM FORTIN, JR., SEAN FREIMAN, 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, KEITH MURATORI, BOB MYERS, RICK NOHL, BILL NOONAN, PETER OSTROSKEY JR., CHRIS PALMER, JIM PERUTA, PETER POZERSKI, GLENN PRESTON, ROB REARDON, DICK SCIALABBA, PAUL SHEA, JOE SHEFER, RICK SUSI, JON TENCA, PAT TRAVERS, DEVON WHALEN, KEVIN WHITE COPYRIGHT 2018, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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Page 4, Fire News, March 2019

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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor

You Have a Voice!

It always amazes me how little people know about the fire service. The people in your community see your apparatus responding to calls, but really have no understanding what those manning the emergency vehicles go through to be allowed to respond to assist them. Many people are misinformed and actually think all responders are paid.

So many people, including members, do not realize that according to NFPA, approximately 70 percent of America’s firefighters are volunteers, and 85 percent of the nation’s fire departments are all or mostly volunteer.

The smallest communities — those with fewer than 10,000 residents — are almost always served by volunteer departments, according to the NFPA. Our Canadian neighbors have a fire service that is made up of 69percent volunteers. Yes, it is hard to believe that in this day and age the fire service is primarily made up of a force that is put together by dedicated people who are trained professionals.

Many years ago, the job required little training and it was easier for community members to volunteer. Today it is a different story. As you know, all first responders are required to take extensive training to become a firefighter or EMT. Like professional responders, you also are required to take

yearly refresher courses to maintain your status. In the early 90s, OSHA recommended yearly refresher courses in HazMat awareness and other important areas such as Violence in the Workplace, Sexual Harassment, and Bloodborne Pathogens. If you drive your department apparatus, you must take awareness and skill-based courses to show you are competent in the operation of your department vehicles. We live in changing times.

If I ask you what CFSI is, can you tell me?

The Congressional Fire Service Institute is an organization that is made up of people and organizations whose mission is, “To educate members of Congress about fire and life saving issues. Established in 1989 as a nonprofit, nonpartisan policy institute, CFSI is designed to educate members of Congress about the needs and challenges of our nation's fire and emergency services to help them understand how the federal government can support the needs of our local first responders.”

This organization holds a yearly symposium and dinner that draws over 1500 fire and emergency service leaders from all over the US. Their mission is to get together with members of Congress and discuss the current issues and concerns in the fire service.

I urge you to visit CFSI.org to learn about this aspect of the fire service. Read the biographies of the people that lead this wonderful organization and watch out for all responders. The 31st Annual National Fire and Emergency Services Symposium and Dinner in Washington, DC, will be held on April 24-25, 2019. Speak to your leaders in Congress and urge them to participate in the CFSI Symposium, so that they are better educated about the challenges and needs of our nation's fire and emergency services. Make sure your department members realize that they have a voice on Capitol Hill that is watching out for them.

- Dennis

Page 6, Fire News, March 2019

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Hartford Commercial Fire Hartford (CT) firefighters were dispatched to a building fire on Wethersfield Avenue in the city’s South End on December 9, 2018. Engine 10 arrived to smoke showing from the rear of the building and attempted to cut different locked gates to access the rear building. When the members accessed the building, they found smoke showing from the eaves. As crews reached the second floor, they found it to be unstable and went defensive. The assignment spent several hours extinguishing and cleaning up.

- Fire News photo by Jim Peruta, CFPA

Car Fire Extends in Thompson On January 15, 2019, all Thompson (CT) fire companies were alerted for a house fire on Quinebaug Road in the Quinebaug section of Thompson. Firefighters arrived to a fullyinvolved vehicle parked next to a dwelling, with the fire having extended heavily into the single-story ranch. Several handlines were quickly deployed and the fire was brought under control in about an hour, but there would be several hours of overhaul due to the collapse of a portion of the dwelling’s roof and another part of the building.

- Fire News photo by Alan Brackett

2 Injured in Waterbury Multi-Family Blaze Waterbury (CT) firefighters were dispatched for a structure fire with injured victims in the early morning of January 22, 2019. First-due Engine 6 reported a three-story, wood frame, residence with heavy fire showing from the second and third floors and two occupants outside the dwelling, one who had sustained significant burns. The older multi-family structure had no power for a long period of time and the residents were using propane heaters to heat the building.

Firefighters initially were able to make an interior attack, but the fire quickly gained ground and the fight went exterior and defensive. Single-digit temperatures quickly froze the water being poured onto the building adding to the danger of the operation. Companies remained on scene most of the morning trying to extinguish hot spots. The female resident who suffered burns was taken to a local hospital and later transferred by Lifestar Medevac to the burn unit at Bridgeport Hospital.

- Fire News photo by Kevin Czarzasty

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Fire News, March 2019, Page 7

Pawtucket Auto Shop Blaze

Pawtucket (RI) firefighters worked in frigid temps and miserable big lines. The fire traveled up and into the attic space of the singleicy conditions to battle a three-alarm fire at an auto repair center story concrete block building. The roof eventually collapsed under on Weeden Street on January 22, 2019. Crews arrived to find heavy the heavy fire conditions.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle fire from the garage bays on the Bravo side and went to work with

Page 8, Fire News, March 2019

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Save at Arlington Fire

On January 13, 2019, the Arlington (MA) Fire Department responded for a house fire on Cleveland Street. On arrival, one occupant was removed from the second floor. The fire required a second alarm, which brought mutual aid to assist.

- Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan

House Gutted in Branford Blaze Firefighters were called-out shortly before 0500 when an alert neighbor noticed flames leaping from a garage on Summer Island Road in Branford (CT) on February 4, 2019. The first-due engine quickly deployed a two-inch attack line and a Blitz-Fire nozzle to knock down the blaze.

The fire completely gutted the structure.

- Fire News photo by Doc Johnson

Truck Fire Extends in Blackstone A pickup truck caught fire on Social Street on January 3, 2019 in Blackstone (MA). The fire extended to a three-bay wood frame garage and also the three-story occupied dwelling. The Woonsocket (RI) Fire Department also sent a full complement to the scene as the state line was a few feet away. Blackstone police officers dumped fire extinguishers onto the truck fire prior to the arrival of fire apparatus. The fire was contained very quickly using three handlines.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

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Fire News, March 2019, Page 9

8 Displaced by New Haven 2-Alarmer

On January 7, 2019, New Haven (CT) responded to Elizabeth Street. Units arrived to heavy smoke and fire on two floors of a 21/2 story, private dwelling, located in the Newhallville section of the city. Companies had to overcome brief water issues as the fire quickly traveled throughout the second and third floors.

Firefighters had to be briefly backed out as heavy fire erupted through the roof. A 2-1/2 inch handline was employed to darken

down the fire. Firefighters were able to regroup and go interior, stretching multiple lines to both floors. The fire took about an hour to bring under control. One firefighter was assisted from the dwelling with unknown minor injuries. The Red Cross assisted with relocating four adults and four children who were left homeless.

The cause of the fire is unknown and being investigated.

- Fire News photo by Glenn Duda, CFPA

Page 10, Fire News, March 2019

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Ansonia House Fire On November 18, 2018, the Ansonia (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to Thomas Street for a fire in an occupied 2-1/2 story wood frame. Units arrived to heavy smoke showing from the attic. All occupants had exited the structure and there were no reported injuries.

- Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com

Walpole 2-Alarmer On January 9, 2019, a second alarm was struck by Chief Tim Bailey for a fire on the third floor and attic of a mixed-use occupancy in Walpole (MA). Firefighters from Norwood, Norfolk, Sharon, Foxboro and Westwood assisted.

- Fire News photo by Bob Myers

Nice Stop in Leominster Leominster (MA) responded to an early morning fire on 6th Street in Leominster. Firefighters from Group 1 arrived to fire showing from a top-floor porch. Engines 4, 3 and 2, Ladder 1 and Rescues 1 and 2 responded. All occupants and their pets were able to get out. Firefighters made a great stop keeping the fire from getting into the cockloft and spreading.

- Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade

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Fire News, March 2019, Page 11

3 Homes Destroyed in Lowell Fire

Lowell (MA) firefighters were alerted to a house fire on Arthur Street just before 1800 on Thanksgiving night, November 22, 2108.

Ladder 2 requested a second alarm with reports of a house well involved and extending to houses on Shaw and Sagamore Streets.

While crews did attempt an interior attack on at least one of the homes, the fire had advanced far ahead of them and firefighters were ordered out to attack the fire from the exteriors. Crews battled

single-digit temperatures with high winds, as they utilized big lines and ladder pipes. With runoff freezing in the street, at least two crews were pushed across the slick streets by hose pressure. A third alarm was requested for manpower. Three houses were severely damaged and deemed uninhabitable. The Red Cross was on scene assisting families displaced.

- Fire News photo by Kevin White

Page 12, Fire News, March 2019

Basment Fire Extends

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On January 21, 2019 Manchester (CT) members responded to a assisted at the scene and firefighters rescued two dogs and a cat. working basement fire that extended to the first floor. Mutual aid - Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

Dudley Car Fire

On January 13, 2019, at 2230, Dudley (MA) firefighters responded to a call for a well-involved pickup truck on Wayne Avenue. Two Dudley jakes living in the neighborhood, responded with extinguishers from their homes to find the truck in the street in front of a residence with fire showing from the engine compartment area.

A Dudley engine arrived, stretched one line and the fire was brought under control.

- Fire News photo by Alan Brackett

Medford Fire

Crews responded to a fire on Bradbury Avenue in Medford (MA) on December 27, 2018.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

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Danbury 3-Alarm Commercial Fire

Just before midnight on January 14, 2019, Danbury (CT) emergency dispatchers received multiple calls for smoke coming from a building on Lake Avenue. Firefighters arrived to find heavy smoke showing from the roof of a single-story commercial building housing Marcello’s Deli and Catering. Crews putting handlines into operation and found the fire was in the ductwork and had gone up into the cockloft. Firefighters had a hard time gaining access to the

Fire News, March 2019, Page 13

fire. At one point, crews were pulled off the roof and out of the building as heavy fire had started to compromise the roof. A tower ladder was put into operation. Three alarms were called as crews battled the blaze in 20-degree temperatures. Officials state that there were no connections between this fire or the other three multiple-alarm fires over the last few weeks in the Lake Avenue area.

- Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com

Car Fire on the Mass Pike Firefighters responded to a fully involved car fire on the Massachusetts Turnpike in Grafton.

- Fire News photo by John DeForest

Cranston Ends 2018 with Commercial Fire On the last night of 2018, the Cranston (RI) Fire Department responded to Park Avenue Auto Sales for smoke coming from the building. Once inside, crews found fire in the attic space. A line was stretched, while Ladder 1 vertically ventilated the roof. The fire was brought under control within 15 minutes and the cause of the fire was under investigation.

- Fire News photo by Tom Carmody

Page 14, Fire News, March 2019

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Fast Moving Blaze Guts East Putnam Auto Shop

On January 16, 2019, just before 2300, East Putnam (CT) firefighters were alerted to a reported building fire at Baker’s Auto on Providence Pike. The well-known auto dealer has been in business for about three decades, primarily selling and repairing older Lincoln Continental town cars. East Putnam units arrived at a welladvanced fire within the structure, with heavy smoke pushing from the wood frame, multiple-story building. There was a heavy load of flammable liquids — paint, lacquer, oil, etc. — throughout the business. As firefighters mounted an interior attack on the fire, which had gained considerable headway. Three alarms were struck, and 12 additional departments responded including East Putnam,

Putnam, Attawaguan, Dayville, Quinebaug, East Killingly, Woodstock, Thompson Hill, Williamsville, Community, West Gloucester (RI), and Webster (MA). Water supply hampered firefighters until hydrants nearly a mile from the scene could be tapped with large diameter hoses. Before those lines were established, firefighters relied on water they were drafting out of a small pond across the street from the structure, as well as the water incoming fire apparatus had on board. One firefighter suffered a non-lifethreatening injury. The cause of the late-night fire was under investigation.

- Fire News photos by Alan Brackett and Ken LaBelle

Historic Theater Burns

Shortly before 0100 on January 13, 2019, the Stratford (CT) Fire Department began receiving multiple calls for a fire at the historic Shakespeare Theatre on Shore Road. First units on scene found the unoccupied, vacant structure heavily involved and immediately started calling for more resources. Mutual aid responded to the scene from Bridgeport and Milford.

- Fire News photos by FireGroundImages.com and PuckStopperPhotography.com

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Fire News, March 2019, Page 15

Woonsocket Fire Fought Defensively

A very stubborn fire occurred on Woodland Street in Woonsocket had to open the roof in many areas to overhaul the hidden pockets (RI) on January 12, 2019. Firefighters arrived to a basement fire, of fire in the knee walls and roofline.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle which burned away the majority of the first floor of a Cape Cod that was under renovation. The fire was fought defensively. Crews

Page 16, Fire News, March 2019

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West Haven Roof Fire On December 1, 2018, West Haven (CT) firefighters were called to Court Street for a reported structure fire. Companies found fire emanating from the roof of a commercial building. The truck crew found roofing materials burning. One line was stretched for a quick knockdown with minor extension to the interior of the building.

- Fire News photo by Glenn Duda, CFPA

Pets Rescued from So. Windsor Blaze On January 8, 2019, the South Windsor (CT) Fire Department responded to a fire on Long Hill Road. Firefighters arrived to fire showing from a ranch-style house. Mutual aid came from Manchester. Members rescued a dog and three cats.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

Quick Stop in Wolcott Wolcott (CT) firefighters responded to Woodtick Road on December 6, 2018, for a house fire. Engine 2 arrived to heavy fire showing from a two-story house, but crews had the fire knocked down in 20 minutes.

- Fire News photo by Rick Kulmann

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Fire News, March 2019, Page 17

Webster Fire Ravages Multi-Family

Shortly before 0330 on December 18, 2018, Webster (MA) firefighters were alerted to a building fire on Chase Avenue on the Webster/Dudley town line. Webster police officers were the first to arrive and found a raging house fire; all of the home’s residents had fled the building before the arrival of the first responders. Webster firefighters arrived to find heavy fire venting out two windows on the second floor front. The flames were driven by 20 to 25 mph winds originating from the rear, pushing the fire towards the front.

Large clouds of thick, wind-driven smoke were banked down into

the street, at times obscuring the front of the building, apparatus, and firefighters. Webster Chief Brian Hickey struck additional alarms for manpower and equipment. Mutual aid came from Dudley, Southbridge, Oxford, Charlton, Douglas and Quinebaug (CT). The fire was brought under control in about 90 minutes, but overhaul operations took another hour and a half, all while the mercury hovered in the upper teens. The cause of the fire appeared to be electrical, and two families were displaced and were assisted by the American Red Cross.

- Fire News photo by Alan Brackett

Page 18, Fire News, March 2019

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3-Alarm Bolton Farmhouse Fire

The Bolton (MA) Fire Department was dispatched for a structure ple attack lines and three alarms were eventually struck, bringing fire on Sawyer Road on January 15, 2019. A police officer reported in multiple mutual aid. There were no hydrants in the area. The resa 2-1/2 story farm house with fire showing. Tankers were requested idents were not home at the time and one dog was rescued.

- Fire News photos by Jim Fortin, Jr. and Scott LaPrade from surrounding towns. First arriving companies stretched multi-

Fatal Fall River Apartment Blaze

On New Year’s Day 2019, Fall River (MA) Engines 6, 12 and 2; several hours to contain the blaze. A fire watch was detailed and Platform 1; Ladder 4; and Rescue 1 were dispatched to a fire at the later found fire on the third floor and attic and the fire extended to Four Winds Apartment Complex. The fire started after a car the other half of the building, displacing some 50 residents.

- Fire News photos by crashed into the building killing both occupants in the car. Heavy Bob Myers and Ken Leger fire swept through one side of the building as firefighters fought for

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Cumberland 3-Alarmer

On February 14, 2019, Cumberland (RI) firefighters, along with mutual aid, fought a smoky three-alarm fire on High Street.

- Fire News photos by Tim Delaney

Fire News, March 2019, Page 19

Page 20, Fire News, March 2019

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Pinned in Holden MVA

On December 3, 2018, firefighters responded to an MVA on Manning Street in Holden (MA). The vehicle traveled down an embankment and rolled onto its side. The single occupant was pinned for some time and was transported with non-life-threatening injuries to a local hospital.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

Kingston MVA Crews responded to an MVA on Wapping Road in Kingston (MA). One person was transported by ground to Beth IsraelPlymouth with non-life-threatening injuries.

- Fire News photo by John Sjostedt

Marlborough Rollover Marlborough (MA) Engine 1 and Rescue 1 were dispatched for an MVA with rollover on November 13, 2018.

Firefighters assisted one person out of the vehicle and EMS transported the patient with unknown injuries.

- Fire News photo by Jim Fortin, Jr.

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Shelton MVA

Fire News, March 2019, Page 21

On January 16, 2019, the Shelton (CT) Fire Department was dis- extricated by the members from both Echo Hose Company 1 and patched to the corner of Pine Street and Shelton Avenue for an MVA Huntington Company 3. No report on injuries suffered.

- Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com rollover. First units found a vehicle on its roof with a tree across the top of it. The vehicle had three passengers, one of which had to be

Operator Flees Vehicle in Water

The Middleborough (MA) Fire Department responded to Oliver the arrival of first responders.

Mill for a vehicle in the water. The operator fled the scene prior to

- Fire News photo by John Sjostedt

Page 24, Fire News, March 2019

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Mashpee Capsize Rescue Two boaters had to be rescued from their overturned vessel in Mashpee (MA) off of Seconsett Island Road on December 22, 2018. Mashpee firefighters used their boat to retrieve the occupants and then returned them to shore for a quick medical evaluation.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

Bridgeport House Explosion On January 20, 2019, Bridgeport (CT) companies were dispatched for a reported house explosion. The 2nd Battalion arrived and found the number two side first- and second-floors blown out. Truck companies immediately searched the dwelling and found a small fire in the debris and the indication of a flash fire in one room. All occupants were accounted for as one line was stretched and operated. All members were then withdrawn from the dwelling as questions about structural integrity arose. Members of the Rescue evaluated the damage and began a shoring operation from the basement. The occupant of the apartment where the explosion occurred was taken to the hospital and treated for burns. The cause of the explosion was a camping propane cylinder used to fuel heating devices.

- Fire News photo by Glenn Duda, CFPA

On the Road: Detroit, MI On November 9, 2018, Detroit firefighters were dispatched to the area of Brush and East Arizona for a dwelling fire. Engine 44 arrived to find a 1-1/2 story vacant dwelling fully involved with extension to the exposures on the number 2 and 4 sides of the original fire building, both of which were also vacant. Numerous lines were stretched and an aggressive interior attack was made but heavy fire conditions and unstable floors forced crews out of the building and firefighters went into a defensive attack with ladder pipe operations.

- Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com

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Fire News, March 2019, Page 25

Up Close & Personal

Cambridge (MA) Engine 4 and Squad 4 at a two-alarm fire in Arlington.

- Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan

On January 21, 2019, Manchester (CT) members responded to a working basement fire.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

Echo Hose Company 1 2nd Lieutenant John Scollin heading in to battle a fire on the second floor of a condo complex in Shelton (CT) on December 7, 2018.

- Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com New Haven (CT) firefighters responding to a fire on Elizabeth Street on January 7, 2019.

- Fire News photo by Glenn Duda, CFPA

Page 26, Fire News, March 2019

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Up Close & Personal

Stamford (CT) firefighters and family members, son Pat Gill and father Scott Gill stand together after a second-alarm fire on Forest Street in Stamford.

- Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com

A North Kingstown (RI) firefighter at a raised ranch fire on Love Lane on December 14, 2018.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

Stratford (CT) E-1 Officer Gravius operating at a recent multi-alarm fire at the Historic Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford on January 13, 2019.

- Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com

The Worcester(MA) Fire Brigade Pipes & Drums, Greater Boston Firefighters Pipes & Drums, Rhode Island Professional Firefighters Pipes & Drums, and New London (CT) Firefighters Pipes & Drums at the Worcester 6 Memorial Cold Storage Fire Anniversary.

- Fire News photo by Liz Feitelberg

The New England FOOLS, alongside instructors from On Scene Training Associates, at an instructional and hands-on, live fire training session over the weekend of November 11, 2018.

- Fire News photo by Kevin White

Hartford (CT) firefighters responded to a small basement fire on Lawrence Street on December 23, 2018.

- Fire News photo by Jim Peruta, CFPA

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Fire News, March 2019, Page 27

Up Close & Personal

A Lincoln (RI) firefighter from Engine 8, working a fire in an SUV on Route 146 on November 27, 2018.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

Crews responded to a fire on Ararat Street in Worcester (MA), on December 1, 2018.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

Bridgeport members (from left) Firefighter Cef Rivera, Lieutenant Robert Novak, Firefighter Mike Kacegowicz, and PE Jim Karnes operating at a recent all-hands fire in Bridgeport (CT).

- Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com

A member from Wooster Engine 5 consults his crew during a two-alarm building fire on Lake Avenue in Danbury (CT).

- Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com

Page 28, Fire News, March 2019

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Cover Story

Worcester LODD: Firefighter Christopher Roy

- Fire News photos by Paul Shea and Ken LaBelle

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Fire News, March 2019, Page 29

Cover Story

Apartment Blaze Takes Life of FF Christopher Roy

On December 9, 2018, Firefighter Christopher Roy responded with the Worcester (MA) Fire Department to a basement fire of a three-story, six-unit apartment building. Conditions deteriorated rapidly and, ultimately, the fire went to five alarms. Heavy fire forced several firefighters to the second floor to evacuate. With the assistance of other crews and the RIT, five firefighters escaped using ladders. Two additional firefighters, including Firefighter Roy, became trapped and had to be rescued by fire crews. Both were transported to a local hospital where Firefighter Roy succumbed to his injuries. The second firefighter was evaluated and released.

- Fire News photos by Paul Shea and Scott LaPrade

Page 30, Fire News, March 2019

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Training

Training in Hartford

On October 1, 2018, the Hartford, West Hartford and New Britain (CT) fire departments trained recruits in Hartford. The 16-week training course was one of the first that Hartford hosted in its history. At the end of the class, 20 recruits were lucky enough getting jobs in New Britain, West Hartford, and Hartford. Good luck and see you on the fire ground.

- Fire News photos by Nick Peruta

Live Fire Training in Kennebunk

The New England FOOLS, alongside instructors from On Scene Training Associates, put together and executed a weekend’s worth of instructional and hands-on live-fire training over the weekend of November 11, 2018. The structure was generously donated to the Kennebunk (ME) Fire Department for use during this training.

The event, “Fall Fire & First Due Boss,” was attended by several firefighters from as far away as northern Vermont. It was designed to put attendees through multiple scenarios including scene size-up,

accountability, forcible entry, search and rescue and roof operations, during live fire conditions. Multiple evolutions, each with some unique but possibly-real wrenches thrown into the mix, gave officers and firefighters an idea of how they should run a fireground from start to finish. Everyone in attendance seemed to gain a great deal of knowledge from this event with which they can go back to their respective departments and pass on to those who couldn’t make it.

- Fire News photos by Kevin White

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Fire News, March 2019, Page 31

Southern New England Firefighters in Action

Department Cambridge (MA) Fire On January 14, 2019, the l for a building fire received a cal on Harding Street in a lding. three-story wooden bui en Carrigan Ow by to pho s New e - Fir

Worcester (MA) firefigh ter fire which occurred a few s responded to a three-alarm days after the fatal fire which claimed the life of Worce Roy. This fire was locate ster Firefighter Christopher d a block away from the fun home in which he was being waked. His compan eral y, Ladder 4, operated at the - Fire News photo by Pau fire. l Shea

On Christmas night 2018, Norwalk (CT) firefighters responded for a house fire on Lexington Avenue in Hartford. Crews arrived to heavy fire showing from a room on the first floor, auto-extending to the second. – Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com

The North Providence (RI) Fire Department rec Mineral Spring Avenue eived an alarm for on December 22, 2018.

Engine 3 and Squad 1 arrived to a small fire in a vacant restaurant in a large multi-story commercia l bui - Fire News photo by Ken lding.

LaBelle

Page 32, Fire News, March 2019

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Southern New England Firefighters in Action

ckton (MA) on on Davids Street in Bro Crews responded to a fire damaged a third-floor apartment. fire January 13, 2019. The Myers - Fire News photo by Bob

On January 12, 2019, the Bridgeport (CT) Fire Dep was dispatched to Pem artment broke Str - Fire News photo by Fir eet for a basement fire. eGroundImages.com

own (RI) on e Lane in North Kingst n using A fire broke out on Lov dow d cke e fire was kno December 14, 2018. Th one handline.

LaBelle - Fire News photo by Ken

On January 15, 2019, New Milford (CT) firefighter s were dispatched to Kent Ro - Fire News photo by Puc ad for a house fire. kStopperPhotography.co m

and Squad 2 s from Engines 3 and 8, Lincoln (RI) firefighter 146 ute Ro on V SU an worked a fire in on November 27, 2018.

LaBelle - Fire News photo by Ken

Attleborough (MA) fire fighters worked a roof top fire on a large commercial property on Perry Street on December 7, 2018.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

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Fire News, March 2019, Page 33

Remembering the Worcester 6

The 19th anniversary of the Wo r c e s t e r ( M A ) C o l d Storage fire in which six firefighters — Lieutenant Thomas Spencer and Firefighters Paul Brotherton, Timothy Jackson, Jeremiah Lucey, James Lyons and Joseph McGuirk — were killed, was held on December 3, 2018.

- Fire News photos by Paul Shea and Liz Feitelberg

Page 34, Fire News, March 2019

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Team Smally’s Wanna B’s Take MoVember Challenge With the support of Steve ‘Smally’ Smalls (great) family and some good friends, they have started Team Smally’s Wanna B’s. Without getting too longwinded in 2013, I was diagnosed with cancer.

Humbling because I’m a 30-year veteran of the Pawtucket Fire Department and had taken care of myself. We did what we needed to do and, I am happy to say, after five years the doctor finally said I was cancer free. My first day back to work we caught a job (not a bad way to come back right?) and I was knocked down once again.

I was in great shape and felt invincible … then i had a heart attack.

The crew I work with (my second family) decided to do the MoVember challenge to show their support. We have continued this tradition to help others, raising money through auctions, T-shirt sales and of course donations. I have been back on the line for almost five years now, so thanks to all!

- Fire News story by Steve ‘Smally’ Small; photos by Ken LaBelle

Hartford Fire Academy Grads

On January 18, 2019 five Hartford FD members were promoted graduated from the Hartford Fire Academy. and new recruits from Hartford, New Britain, and West Hartford - Fire News photos by Patrick Dooley

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Fire News, March 2019, Page 35

Simsbury Chief James Baldis Receives Award

Lincoln’s Tardie Promoted to Captain

Simsbury (CT) Volunteer Fire Company Fire Chief James Baldis has received the Richard Pratt Sylvia Instructor of the Year Award from the Connecticut Fire Department Instructors’ Association. His 43 years of service in Simsbury include 14 years as Chief.

Baldis is the President and Director of Training at the Hartford County Regional Fire School in Windsor Locks and he is President of the Hartford County Fire Emergency Plan, where he has taught since the 70s.

The award is named for Richard Pratt Sylvia, who started as a volunteer firefighter in the the Noroton Fire Department in Darien, where he was Chief for eight years. In August 1966 he was appointed associate editor of Fire Engineering magazine, and became the editor for two years before retiring in 1982.

- Submitted by Kitty Vangunten

Lincoln’s (RI), Chris Tardie was promoted to the rank of Fire Captain on December 3, 2018. He was pinned by his father Denis Tardie. Chris has been involved in the fire service since 1994. He became a career firefighter in 2004 and is also a fire marshal.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

Page 36, Fire News, March 2019

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Firefighters Participate in 3rd Annual B-Fit Challenge

On the morning of January 27, 2019, the Boston Bruins Foundation hosted the Third Annual B-Fit First Responder Challenge at the TD Garden in Boston. Presented by National Grid, the event raises money for The 100 Club of Massachusetts, which provides financial support for families of firefighters and police officers that are killed in the line of duty.

Participants raise a minimum of $300 to participate in the event, with 100 percent of the fundraising dollars going directly to The 100 Club of Massachusetts and the families of fallen police officers and firefighters.

This year, the Worcester firefighters who participated donated their fundraising dollars directly to the Ava Roy Foundation, which was started to support the daughter of fallen Worcester Firefighter Christopher

Roy. As of this deadline, the Worcester team raised over $18,000.

The course weaves its way up and down the stairs at the TD Garden.

The three different course levels bring participants throughout the entirety of the sports complex, with a challenge for every skill level.

Most participants donned full turnout gear, some with SCBA. Last year’s event raised $350,000 for The 100 Club of Massachusetts. This year’s amount will be even higher. As of this deadline, the funds raised are over $450,000. More information about the annual event can be found on the Boston Bruins website at www.nhl.com/bruins/community/foundation-first-responder-challenge.

- Fire News photos by Pat Travers and Paul Shea

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Fire News, March 2019, Page 37

A Christmas Surprise

Mashpee (MA) firefighter Torey Montesi popped the question to Leominster (MA) Firefighter and a Fire News contributor as well.

Kimberly LaPrade on December 22, 2018. Kim’s father, Scott, is a - Fire News photos by Ken LaBelle

Page 38, Fire News, March 2019

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Westfield’s Ladder 6 - Fire News photo by Mike Brinius

Lincoln’s Metivier Calls it a Career Lincoln’s (RI) Captain Marc Metivier hangs his hat up on the local’s IAFF Charter on his last day of work after a 34-year career.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

37 Fire Officers Graduate Management Training Program On January 31, 2019, 37 fire service leaders from across Massachusetts graduated from the 26th offering of the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy’s Chief Fire Officer Management Training Program. The 14-week program was developed in accordance with National Fire Protection Association Standards for senior fire officers, and is delivered jointly by the Edward J. Collins, Jr.; Center for Public Management at the University of Massachusetts; and the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy. It is a comprehensive course providing training in the non-fire suppression aspects of managing fire departments.

State Fire Marshal Peter Ostroskey said, “These fire service leaders are committed to continually developing their management and leadership skills in order to provide the highest level of service to the communities they protect.”

The 37 graduates serve the following fire departments: Ashburnham, Ashland, Athol, Belmont, Braintree, Brookline, Carver, Concord, Dennis, Dudley, Duxbury, Duxbury, Easthampton, Falmouth, Foxborough, Hanover, Harwich, Holyoke, Hull, Leverett, Mansfield,

Fall River Holiday Parade On December 1, 2018, the City of Fall River (MA) held their annual Children’s Holiday Parade. It was led by the Worcester Fire Brigade Pipes and Drums marching unit. The Fall River Fire Department had numerous units marching in the 2-1/2 hourplus parade.

- Fire News photo by Ken Leger

Massport, Melrose, Needham, North Reading, Onset, Raynham, Sharon, Somerville, Stoneham, Sturbridge, Tewksbury, West Bridgewater, West Brookfield, Westborough, Wilbraham and Yarmouth.

The curriculum covers a spectrum of topics considered essential for effective public sector management. It includes human resource management, ethics, executive leadership and legal issues, governmental and organization structures, information management, customerfocused strategic planning, legal aspects, budgets and public finance, community awareness and public relations, and labor relations.

Participants are required to write a formal applied research paper that identifies a current problem or challenge faced by their organization and propose a viable solution. The officers must then present their proposal to a panel of municipal officials for their consideration.

The Massachusetts Firefighting Academy, a division of the Department of Fire Services, offers this program, tuition-free.

- Submitted by Jennifer Mieth

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Fire News, March 2019, Page 39

Santa at Sub Base FD

Submarine Base Fire Department (Groton, CT) held its annual Christmas party for the families of the firefighter’s children. The event is held at the off-base station so both shifts can attend with their families. About 30 children attended and were treated to breakfast and a present from Santa.

- Fire News photo by Robert Ladd, CFPA

Breakfast with Santa in Fall River On December 2, 2018, the Fall River (MA) Fire Museum held their breakfast with Santa event. Attendees were treated to a full breakfast of bacon, eggs, sausage, French toast and pancakes. After breakfast, Santa Claus entered the hall to the delight of the children, and made his way to each table to greet everyone. Santa then made his way to his throne so each child could sit on his lap and tell him their wishes for the season. - Fire News photo by Ken Leger

Page 40, Fire News, March 2019

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Derby Chiefs Sworn In

On January 12, 2019, the Derby (CT) Fire Department swore in M. Lenart as 1st Assistant Chief, Michael F. Gloade as 2nd Assistant four new fire chiefs at the Derby Middle School in front of family, Chief, and Thomas Biggs as 3rd Assistant Chief.

- Fire News photos by FireGroundImages.com the department, and the city. Derby Mayor Richard Dziekan appointed Robert J. Laskowski, Jr., as Chief of Department, David

Beer Released to Support Fallen Worcester Firefighter On February 1, 2019, the Wormtown Brewery in Worcester (MA) opened their taproom doors to release their latest creation “Worcester’s Bravest Belgian Wit.” This beer, was created in collaboration with the Wachusett Brewing Company, and Worcester Firefighters Local 1009, in memory of Worcester Firefighter Christopher Roy who was killed in the line of duty in December 2018. All of the proceeds go directly to the Ava Roy Fund, Christopher Roy’s daughter.

Worcester’s Bravest Belgian Wit is billed as a light bodied, unfiltered wheat ale, with sweet and zesty citrus notes, as well as complex pepper spice and herbal hops which give it a uniquely refreshing taste.

Four-packs of 16-ounce cans, and 16-ounce drafts are available at Wormtown Brewery, located at 72 Shrewsbury Street in Worcester.

Wormtown Brewery and Wachusett Brewing Company thank Four Star Farms for donating all of the hops for the special brew, and for Dion Label Printing for donating all of the labels for the cans.

Donations for the Ava Roy Fund can be made at the Worcester Fire Department Credit Union at 34 Glennie Street, Worcester, or online at www.AvaRoyFund.com.

- Fire News photo by Pat Travers

New Britain CT New Apparatus Dedication

- Fire News photo by Mike Brinius

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Fire News, March 2019, Page 41

Worcester Firefighter Awards Ceremony

(Left to right): Lieutenant John Kennedy, Firefighters Nathan Schirner and Jackson Lowbridge, and Lieutenant John Dwyer received unit citations from Deputy Chief Andrew White for their recovery of a drowning victim in Bell Pond.

District Chief Courville received the Worcester Firefighters Local 1009 Excellence Award.

The first annual Worcester Firefighter Award ceremony was held November 12, 2018, at Mechanics Hall in Worcester (MA). The Firefighter’s Ball was held after the ceremony.

- Fire News photos by Paul Shea

(Left to right): Chief Lavoie, Head Mechanic Jack Santimore and Mechanic Justin Tuttle, both of the Maintenance shop, received a unit citation for keeping the apparatus fleet running to capacity.

Page 42, Fire News, March 2019

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KIMTEK MARKS 35 YEARS OF INNOVATION

Makers of FIRELITE and MEDLITE transport skid units celebrate 35-year heritage in design, manufacture, and sales of public safety equipment worldwide KIMTEK Corp., makers of MEDLITE® and FIRELITE® Transport skid units for off-road rescue and wildland firefighting, have announced plans to celebrate the company’s 35th anniversary with a number of events planned throughout 2019.

KIMTEK Transport skid units fit easily into most utility vehicles and pick-up trucks, enabling first responders to travel over rough terrain and through tight clearances with essential fire and/or medical rescue equipment and attendants.

Markets have responded enthusiastically, resulting in record demand for KIMTEK products around the globe.

Reaching this corporate milestone represents a personal achievement for KIMTEK President and founder Kimball Johnson, a multiple patent-holder and retired fire chief who understands firsthand the challenges of meeting off-road rescue needs while under strict budget constraints typical for municipal and government agency emergency departments.

“After spending decades talking with first responders about the challenges of meeting off-road rescue and firefighting demands, I appreciate the particular needs of these agencies and departments,” said Johnson. “They need resources that are reliable, versatile, and affordable. It's why I started KIMTEK Research then, and it’s why our team keeps researching, adapting, and providing medical and fire rescue solutions that exactly meet first responders’ needs now,” he said.

Mr. Johnson and several KIMTEK employees are themselves experienced first responders, having routinely performed off-road rescues and wildfire suppression as part of their duties with fire departments

and ambulance squads. This field experience makes it inherently easier for KIMTEK to develop off-road solutions that are designed, built, and priced right.

More information about KIMTEK research and products is available at the company website: www.kimtekresearch.com and www.brushtruckskids.com, or by calling 888-546-8358.

About KIMTEK Corporation KIMTEK was founded in 1984 by Kimball Johnson, holder of several U.S. patents and a former EMT and fire chief, as a research and development company dedicated to advances in life safety technology in the fire sciences.

Headquartered in northern Vermont, KIMTEK’s Transport skid units are now in service in all 50 United States, all of Canada, all branches of the military, the National Park Service, numerous NASCAR tracks, sporting complexes, schools, universities, industrial and commercial facilities throughout the country, and other vital applications worldwide. KIMTEK’s Transport units are designed to work interchangeably with existing and new equipment, optimizing municipal budget dollars and enabling easy, affordable upgrades.

Since the company's inception, KIMTEK’s mission has been to offer affordable, practical solutions for the agencies they serve, resulting in highly popular emergency response products that emphasize modularity and flexibility and which offer the best in-class warranty coverages.

KIMTEK®, MEDLITE® and FIRELITE® are registered trademarks of KIMTEK Corporation.