I recently checked with my local groundhogs and found that all the seasoned groundhogs had differing opinions on when winter will end. Punxsutawney Phil is predicting six more weeks of cold weather, while Chuckles and General Beauregard Lee are saying we will have an early spring. Since I am an optimist, I’m betting on an early spring! But, regardless of what our groundhogs think, I am staying prepared for a few more weeks of cold weather.
I grew up in the fire service. I remember my dad hated fighting fires in the cold. He always prepared his rack for winter, which included an extra wool sweater, a wool skull hat and a nylon vest. In 1960, I was a full-fledged buff. In those days I ran to fires and immediately found the Salvation Army truck, which was always present. My adopted job was to retrieve a cardboard box filled with coffee and doughnuts and distribute them to the MPOs, so that the members of the companies had a warm beverage waiting for them when they exited the fire building. I know the members appreciated my gesture offering them coffee and doughnuts provided by the Salvation Army. Truthfully, I miss the dedication of the Salvation Army. With the advancement of technology, we now have Recuperation and Care Units (RAC Units). These units respond to all-hands calls and provide members with cool
drinks and cool towels during hot weather and warm drinks during cold weather.
Several times I was asked to run to my father’s company and load up a bag of dry clothing and bring it back to the fire. It didn’t look like fun when I saw firefighters exiting a warm building in wet clothing and standing in freezing temperatures. This changed in the late 60s.
In extreme temperatures, firefighters need protection from both heat and cold at the same incident. While stretching lines and opening up a building, firefighters are exposed to the cold temperatures and, within minutes, they are exposed to extreme heat. Firefighters who are dressed for the cold are likely to become fatigued. It is common for firefighters to be sweating on the inside and covered with ice on the outside. Officers should remind members to stay warm without compromising protection.
Plan and prepare for fighting fires in the winter months. Agood pump operator has a built-in instinct that warns of the dangers of allowing their truck to freeze up. Some departments in cold climates operate with dry pumps. As they arrive on scene they allow water to enter the pump so that it can be out into operation. I recommend that new pump operators speak with a senior pump operator to review cold weather operation. You should also check with the pump
manufacturer to see if they have guidelines for operating in cold weather.
Check with Firehouse magazine. Jim Vaughn wrote a great article called, “Preparedness and Training for Cold-Weather Firefighting.” Check out their December 2020 edition.
Let’s hope Punxsutawney Phil is wrong and that springtime is less than six weeks away. In the meantime, stay warm! - Dennis
Lincoln (RI) Fire received an automatic alarm for a Lonsdale Avenue address at a furniture store.
See story on page 6
Quincy (MA) Fire Department responded for a house fire on Buckley Street.
See story on page 8
Lumber Mill 3-Alarmer
The Windsor (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to West Street for a structure fire.
See story on page 9
The Springfield (MA) Fire Department responded to a fire on Main Street.
See story on page 11
Fire, EMS, and Police responded for a report of a person who had fallen through the ice on Honey Pot Pond.
See story on page 21
LODD: North Haven’s Matthias Wirtz
Worcester’s James Mateychuk
South Kingstown’s Anthony G. Ciccone
See story on pages 23 & 24
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Around 1955 on January 5, 2023, the Brockton (MA) Fire Department struck Box 1234 fora reported basement fire on Bartlett Street. Squad-A, Engine-5, Engine-4, Engine-2 (RIT), Ladder-1, Ladder-2 and Car-56 responded. Engine-4 arrived and confirmed a basement fire in a 2-1/2 story wood frame dwelling, and stretched a line. All occupants were reported out of the building, and primary searches were negative. Shortly aftera working fire was requested, smoke began to push from the basement and third floor. Asecond alarm was ordered bringing Engine-7 to the
scene. Chief of Department Brian Nardelli also responded. Command reported the heavy fire was knocked down in the basement with three handlines. Two sticks, and several ground ladders were thrown to the building. Within another15-minutes the fire was knocked down, and the heavy smoke was ejected from the multiple family home. Mutual aid companies came from West Bridgewater and Stoughton. The Red Cross was requested to the scene fordisplaced residents.
- Fire News photos by Pat Travers, John Sjostedt and Bob Myers
December1, 2022, Lincoln (RI) Fire received an automatic alarm fora Lonsdale Avenue address at the Knock on Wood Furniture Store. Stations 5, 3, 7 and 2, and Rescue 1 were dispatched. Rescue 1 arrived and reported nothing showing from the front of the three-story brick and wood building. Crews investigated and found a well-advanced fire in the basement. Aworking fire was requested as crews started an interiorattack. As the fire continued to burn it advanced its way to the upperfloors and through the roof. Lincoln was assisted by Central Falls, Cumberland, Woonsocket, North Providence, Pawtucket, Smithfield- all RI and North Attleboro (MA).
- Fire News photos by Bob Myers and Ken LaBelle
Smoke was showing from the attic and fire out the rearwindows of a large multi-family home in Nashua (NH) on the evening of January 10, 2023. Deputy Chief Kirk arrived and struck a second alarm, bringing in extra companies to the fire. Crews made an aggressive interiorattack knocking down the heavy fire on the second floorand attic. Companies remained on scene overhauling and checking forextension. - Fire News photo by Patrick Kerrigan
- Fire News photo by Paul Shea
Firefighters battled a second-alarm fire in Worcester(MA) on January 8, 2023. Heavy fire was showing on arrival, but companies knocked down the fire quickly. Members of Rescue 1 ended up making a grab.
At approximately 2010 on January 19, 2023, the Seymour (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to KnorrAvenue fora house fire. First companies found a two-story home with heavy smoke showing. All family members, along with their dog, made it safely out of the home by the time of FD’s arrival. Heavy fire was discovered in the rearof the house extending up all floors into the attic. The fire went to a second alarm before being put undercontrol. Firefighters also located and safely removed the family’s turtles during operations, and theircat was found to have made it out to safely on its own. - Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com
ANovember27, 2022, firefighters responded fora four-alarm fire at a Mystic (CT) marina complex. The involved structures covered an area about 300- x 200-feet, with one dwelling on the cornerof the lot and one section well involved on arrival. With winds gusting to 30 mph and heavy rain, the fire threatened a residential area 150-feet away. First-due companies were confronted with fire storm conditions and set up exposure protection on several streets. The fire consumed the buildings in less than 40 minutes. Arriving companies had one main direction to close in on the building and that was filled with blowing embers bouncing off every exposure fora block. The first pump to the rearof the building was a marine unit, which supplied two deck monitors and a five-inch supply line to a ladderpipe forseveral hours. Crews remained on the scene all night. This was the largest fire in town in 20 years and this area has had several majorfires overthe last 150 years.
- Fire News photo by Robert Ladd, CFPA
Around 0145 Quincy (MA) Fire Department struck Box 4118 fora house fire on Buckley Street in the West Quincy section of the city. First-due Engine-5 reported heavy fire showing on arrival. Aquick working fire and then a second alarm were struck. Firefighters had fire on floor1 and 2 of a large occupied 2-1/2 story wood frame structure that housed fourapartments. Companies stretched numerous handlines and quickly contained the fire while Ladders 1 and 2 crews ventilated the roof. The house was located nearthe top of a very steep hill. One occupant was transported to the hospital with a minorinjury and the fire left nine occupants displaced.
- Fire News photo by Dave Stewart
Vernon (CT) firefighters responded fora fifth alarm plus special calls on Brooklyn Street on December12, 2022, at 0156. Heavy fire was showing on arrival of the first officer. Many mutual aid units assisted at the scene orcovered firehouses
- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
At approximately 1920 on December21, 2022, the New Haven (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to Poplarand Grand streets fora commercial building fire. First companies on scene found heavy fire from a two-story vacant brick structure on Poplar. This would be the second serious fire of the day and would escalate to a two-alarm fire before being put undercontrol. Members were also evacuated at one point due to worsening conditions of the floors.
- Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com and Jack McCarthy; Fill the Box Photography
On J anuary 1, 2023, the Windsor (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to West Street fora structure fire. The first officeron scene reported two buildings fully involved with exposure issues. The fire was at a local lumbermill. One building was full of stacked lumberwhile the otherbuilding was full of equipment, including vehicles. Fire extended to a third building but that was knocked down and the trucks in there were able to be moved out. The property was located at the end of a very long narrow roadway and companies had to make a very long hose lay. Powerlines were also down, furtherlimiting access to an already limited access property. Numerous mutual aid assisted.
West Haven (CT) Centerand West Shore Districts responded to Hilltop Lane fora reported garage fire. Companies arrived to fire showing. Companies knocked down the fire with minimal extension into the rest of the home.
While in the midst of a winterstorm Duxbury FD responded to a garage fire. With anticipated heavy winds and flooding the department’s “High-Water9” truck was in service forthe day. HW-9 was out responding to a trapped motorist in tidal flooded waters just before the call forthe fire came in. When arriving, with only two firefighters and water, HW-9 assumed command. Due to narrow flooded roads the only pieces of apparatus equipped forthe operation were AWD brush breakers. While waiting forthe breakers to arrive, command quickly evacuated nearby houses. Once the deputy chief arrived, a second alarm was declared. The fire rapidly spread to a carin the driveway just before the breakers arrived. Heavy, thick smoke filled the streets and a third alarm was then struck. In attempt to contain the fire, firefighters drafted water from the ocean while the hydrant operation was underway. Crews were able to contain the fire to the garage and car. The freezing temperatures, flooded roads, and windy conditions made the operation challenging but with the help of surrounding towns, the crews managed in an efficient manner.
On January 1, 2023, Wilmington (MA) firefighters were dispatched to Lowell Street fora house fire. On arrival, Engine 1 reported heavy smoke from a two-story carriage house and requested a working fire. Firefighters found fire extending through the walls from the lowerlevel upwards to a heavily cluttered second floor
On November15, 2022, Pepperell firefighters stopped an RVfire from extending to a house.
where the fire spread rapidly and eventually burned through the roof. Chief Cavanaugh ended up striking a second alarm early on, forhelp from several communities coming to the fire to assist and bringing it undercontrol in an hour’s time.
The Springfield (MA) Fire Department responded to a fire on the North End of Main Street in the evening hours of January 28 28, 2023. It was quickly transmitted as a third alarm.
- Fire News photos by Coral Ruggiero and John DeForest
Lebanon (CT) firefighters responded to Mack Road on January 17, 2023, fora house fire. Numerous mutual aid assisted at the scene.
On the night of Christmas Day 2022, Francestown (NH) and automatic aid responded to East Road fora structure fire. Prior to arrival, additional information was reported that fire was in the dwelling and a second alarm was ordered. Companies arrived and deployed multiple handlines, while a draft site was established. The collective volunteer/on-call departments were able to make a good stop, keeping the bulk of the fire contained to the garage. - Fire News photo by Dylan Conway
Fall River(MA) Communications began receiving calls reporting visible smoke in a Subway restaurant. Crews arrived at a strip mall containing several businesses including Burns PowerTools which had smoke and flames showing from the roof. Command called fora second alarm followed closely by a third as the fire occupancy had a large inventory of lubricants and rechargeable batteries that were feeding the flames. Heavy smoke blanketed the area, while temperatures hovered in the 20s. As conditions worsened, command called forfourth and fifth alarms. Mutual aid was called into back-fill empty stations and off-duty personnel were called in to put spare apparatus in service. Out of town companies responded to several calls during this fire including a fully involved auto fire.
Manchester(NH) Fire, Police and AMR Ambulance responded to a house fire on Allen Street recently. While en route, firefigh ters were advised the back of the house was on fire, and there were dogs trapped inside. Firefighters arrived and confirmed the resident s had escaped and worked to get two dogs out of the house which was being consumed by fire and smoke. AMR medics attempted saving one of the dogs by giving it oxygen through a pet mask and performing CPR. Despite the efforts one of the dogs did not survive. Firefighters worked to extinguish heavy fire in the back part of the house and knocked the heavy fire down in about 20 minutes.
On January 4, 2023, around 2000, Norwich (CT) Fire dispatched Taftville Fire and mutual aid to Norwich Avenue fora reported fire in a window. Engine 2 stretched in, but the pump failed. At the time Engine 21 was arriving and the original handline was relocated to Engine 21’s pump. During this time, Tower25 and Truck 1 arrived. Car2 while en route requested the second alarm, which added Yantic, Rescue 3, Occum and Mohegan Tribe. Several handlines had been stretched into the building, overthe next few minutes conditions continued to worsen. The first in crew had just exited the building, as a Mayday was heard by some of the fire ground crews, but not all. Command was able to make contact, with the firefighter. Car38. directed Rescue 3 to grab ladders from the ground and place them to the window. As they secured the first ladder, the firefighterstarted his bailout. He was able to do a headfirst bail, and flip around. He bailed with no injuries, and after medical cleared him on scene, he returned to his crew. In all training, was the key to a successful rescue.
- Fire News photo by Robert Ladd CFPA
Just before noon on Thanksgiving Day, November24, 2022, the Shelton (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to a vehicle fire on Route 8 southbound approaching exit 11. First companies found a fully involved vehicle in the right-hand lane. Firefighting foam was used due to the difficulty in suppression from a ruptured gas tank. Route 8 from exit 12 to 11 was shut down to Thanksgiving Day traffic foran extended period.
- Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com
On November15, 2022, Arlington (MA) firefighters practice entering a smoke-filled house to conduct a search for trapped occupants. The firefighters were practicing the adage “if you can’t see yourfeet, you don’t belong on them.” The house, which was to be demolished, was donated to the fire department.
- Fire News photo by David Bryce
Crews battled a twoalarm fire in Fitchburg, (MA) the day after Christmas 2022. The fire was in a large 2 1/2 wood frame house. Crews arrived to find heavy fire showing and struck a second alarm. Crews from Leominster and Lunenburg responded and assisted crews on scene. Crews knocked the fire down quickly and had it undercontrol in roughly 30 minutes.
Deerfield firefighters work a two-alarm fire on November20, 2022.
- Fire News photo by Sean Fesko
At approximately 1944 on February 3, 2023, the Oxford (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to Jensen Farm Road fora house fire. First companies in, found a raging wind-driven fire in a large two-story private dwelling. Members would deal with temps in the single digits (six-degrees F and much lowerwith wind chill), causing frozen hydrants and massive watersupply issues, as well as heavy wind that just compounded the night’s difficulties. The fire would escalate to a second alarm, which brought multiple mutual aid departments to the scene as well as forstation coverage. Luckily, the family of fourthat resided at this structure was not at home at the time of the fire. - Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com
On the afternoon of November22, 2022, the Suffield (CT) Fire Department responded to a garage fire on La Fountain Road. Mutual aid was provided by the WindsorLocks Fire Department and Bradley International Airport Fire Department. Suffield VolunteerAmbulance Association and the Suffield Police Department were also on scene.
Longmeadow (MA) firefighters were dispatched by Westcomm Regional Dispatch Centerto Dunn Road just before 2030 fora structure fire. First arriving units found heavy fire showing from the garage area of a large 2-1/2 story wood framed home along with a carand a boat. Asecond alarm was sounded bringing East Longmeadow, ShakerPines and North Thompsonville to the scene. Crews used handlines to knock down the fire. Awater main break on West Road took place during the fire, requiring Springfield to send an engine to the scene forwatersupply.
Just before 1530 on December9, 2022, Templeton (MA) units responded to a fully involved motorvehicle fire on Route 2 west between exits 82 and 79 in Templeton.
On January 22, 2023, at 1645, Waterbury (CT) firefighters were called fora condo fire on Meriden Road. Upon arrival, Engine 5 reported a working fire in a 2-1/2 story condo with smoke coming from the roof. The fire was knocked down and placed undercontrol in about 20 minutes.
Around 2145 on January 20, 2023, the Whitman (MA) Fire Department received multiple calls reporting a carfire in the a rea of Carleton Street. Car-3, Engine-243 and Ladder-246 responded. Upon arrival, Lieutenant Tom Ford reported a fully involved engine compartment on an SUVlocated on Carleton Street. One line was stretched off Engine 243 to quickly knock down the fire.
Around 1600 on January 21, 2023, Meriden (CT) crews responded fora structure fire on Broad Street. Responding on mutual aid were New Britain Engine 2 and Ladder2, Middletown Truck 1, Wallingford Engine 1, Berlin Volunteers, South Meriden Engine 6 and Southington.
Firefighters responded to Liquori Drive in Agawam (MA) on December 20, 2022.
- Submitted by Alan Sirois
ANew Haven, (CT) probationary firefighteroperating at a recent two-alarm fire on PoplarStreet.
Firefighters drill on a live burn at an acquired structure in in York (ME) on January 21,
At approximately 1915 on November25, 2022, the Shelton (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to RiverRoad in front of Casa Nova Ristorante fora two-carMVA. First units found one vehicle rolled overand into a downed telephone pole with wires in the street. They found the second vehicle in the middle of the road with heavy front end damage. All occupants had made it out of the vehicles without assistance.
- Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com
Around 1415 on January 25, 2023, the Brockton (MA) Fire Department struck theirBox-4226 fora carinto a house at the intersection of North Cary Street and Beacon Park. Engine-7, Squad-A, Ladder-4, TSU, Car-56 and EMS responded. Engine-7 arrived to find a single- vehicle MVAwith a carthat had struck a support beam fora deck on the rearof the building. The vehicle smashed through a chain link fence priorto colliding with the house. An occupant of the vehicle was transported to the Good Samaritan Medical Centerwith unknown injuries. The drivernarrowly missed being struck by a metal fence post that smashed through the windshield and landed in the passenger compartment. Arepresentative from the building department was requested to the scene to check forstructural damage to the deck. The Brockton Police were on the scene investigating the cause of the crash.
- Fire News photo by Pat Travers
Crews operated at the scene of a double-fatal MVAin Worcester (MA) on Grafton Street, which occurred in the early morning hours of December3, 2022. The driverand passengerwere killed. There were also numerous otheroccupants in the carwho were transported to the hospital. - Fire News photo by Paul Shea
Amherst (NH) Fire, EMS, and Police responded fora report of a person who had fallen through the ice on Honey Pot Pond. While en route, responders were advised a teenagerwas skating when he fell through the thin ice. Two people nearby saw the skaterfall through the ice, grabbed a canoe, and attempted to reach the victim. Emergency personnel set up on Cross Road and requested additional apparatus and ambulances. The teen was pulled into the canoe by the two rescuers who had spotted him. The canoe broke through the ice and was unable to get to the shore. Amherst Fire quickly put on waterrescue gear, set up ropes, and made efforts to get to the canoe. Rescuers struggled as ice continually broke around them as they tried to reach the people in the canoe. Afterabout 30 minutes the canoe with all three people were pulled to shore by firefighters and police officers. As soon as the teen reached shore EMS began treatment for exposure and brought him to a waiting ambulance. The two people who had brought the canoe to rescue the teen were uninjured. Responders spoke about how lucky the teenageris that someone saw him go through the ice and rescued him from the frigid waterthat could have quickly rendered him unconscious.
Provisional Fire Chief Tom Purcell reports that the Wakefield (MA) Fire Department and mutual aid responded to a single-vehicle MVA and electric vehicle fire on Interstate 95 on January 19, 2023,at about 2247. Upon arrival, companies, led by Captain John Walsh, found a Tesla wedged into the guardrail in the right breakdown lane. The 38-year-old driver of the vehicle was RMA. As the vehicle was removed, the guardrail pieced the undercarriage, causing the lithium-ion batteries to go into a thermal runaway. The vehicle became fully involved. Afull box alarm assignment was ordered per Shift Command, and a Lynnfield engine company was called to the scene as well. Wakefield Engine 1 and Ladder 1 initiated suppression operations, applying
copious amounts of water onto the vehicle. Multiple surrounding mutual aid communities responded and created a water shuttle. Engines from Melrose, Stoneham, Reading, Lynnfield as well as a Middleton water tanker assisted. Firefighters had three 1-3/4 inch handlines as well as a blitz gun in operation to cool the battery compartment. The fire was declared under control and fully extinguished after about 2 1/2 hours. More than 20,000 gallons of water were used. ADepartment of Fire Services HazMat Team responded and the Department of Environmental Protection was notified. The vehicle was removed from the scene after consulting with the HazMat Unit.
Orange (MA) Ambulance transferred care of a trauma patient to DHART(Dartmouth Hitchcock Advanced Response Team) in Athol (MA) recently.
Fire News photo by Bryan Favreau; Onscene Images
The 1st annual Live Burn Training was brought to benefit the Ricardo Torres Jr. Memorial Scholarship Fund. This full-day event brought in instructors and students from all overthe East Coast forsome solid fireground training. Ricardo was a Firefighterfor the city of New Haven (CT) and passed away in the line of duty in 2021
On November19, 2022, Templeton (MA) Fire Explorerpost trained on fire suppression at the Gardner(MA) training facility. Two groups swapped out making several evolutions. The Explorerpost is led by Lieutenant David Laprade and FF/Paramedic Andrew Francis. The post consists of local 14to 17-year-olds looking to enterthe fire service.
Firefighters drill on a live burn at an acquired structure in Northwood (NH) on January 28, 2023.
Firefighters drill on a live burn at an acquired structure in in York (ME) on January 21, 2023.
Firefighter Matthias Wirtz, a 22-year veteran of the North Haven (CT) Fire Department, died after battling a two-alarm blaze in the 100 block of Quinnipiac Avenue in North Haven on December 26, 2022. He was 46.
Wirtz was found outside of the building with firefighters and paramedics working to save him as other crews, including those from New Haven and East Haven, worked to deal with the blaze that displa ced 13 people.
He was the loving husband of Barbara Cardito, brother of Monika Lussier, Helga Beckett, the late Peter Wirtz and their children . He is also survived by Barbara’s children Raymond Ayoub, Alexandra Springer (Christopher) and his faithful companion, his dog Rosie.
Please omit flowers and if so desired, a contribution in Matt’s name may be made to North Haven Professional Firefighters Charitable Association, PO Box 191, North Haven, CT06473. www.northhavenfuneral.com. - Fire News photos by Glenn Duda, Allhandsworking
James ‘Jamie’W. Mateychuk, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, January 13, 2023, at UMass Medical Center. He was 51-years old.
Jamie was born in Springfield (MA) and grew up in Southbridge where he graduated from Southbridge High School. He served his country in the United States Navy during the Persian Gulf War on the USS Barnstable County, earning various medals during his service, something he spoke about often. Jamie was a veteran not only of the military but served his local community for 20 years as a firefighter for the City of Worcester Fire Department. He was stationed predominantly on
Rescue 1 before retiring in November of 2022. After retiring, Jamie worked part-time at the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy in Stow.
Jamie is survived by his wife of 23 years, Lauren L. (Parella) Mateychuk; their three children, Amelia, Julia and Jack Mateych uk all of Holden and many other relatives.
Memorial contributions in his name can be made to either The Mateychuk Children’s Fund, Worcester Fire Department Credit Uni on, 34 Glennie St., Worcester MA01605 or d/b/a On-Site Academy, PO Box 448, Westminster, MA01473. - Fire News photos by Paul Shea
Chief Steven Pinch and the Union Fire District of South Kingstown regret to announce the passing of Board of Warden Member Anthony G. ‘Tony’Ciccone. He was 82.
Ciccone, a resident of South Kingstown and native of Cranston, passed away Saturday, November 19, 2022. He was the beloved husband of Patricia (Crawford) Ciccone for 55 years.
Ciccone worked as the service manager for O’Neill Oil for many years before retiring. He then worked part time for Smith Co. He was the chair of the Board of Wardens for the Union Fire District, serving more than 35 years and was a lifetime member of South Kingstown Forest Fire Service. He also served on the Planning Board for the Town
of South Kingstown.
He was an avid gardener, enjoyed woodworking, cooking and spending time with his family and grand-dog Daisy.
Besides his wife, he leaves a son, Anthony W. Ciccone and his wife Stacey; daughters, Nancy J. Ciccone and her husband Erik Gottlieb, Lisa A. Diebold and her husband Peter; grandchildren, Anthony and Olivia Diebold. He was the brother of the late John Ciccone, Paul Ciccone and Theresa Hartman.
Donations may be made to Union Fire District Training Fund, 131 Asa Pond Road, Wakefield, Rhode Island, 02879.
- Submitted by Matthew Reid
On September 26, 2022, firefighters, family, and friends gathered in Concord (NH) at the New Hampshire Fallen Firefighters Memorial’s 16th annual ceremony. The ceremony reflects and honors the 92 New Hampshire firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty serving their communities over the years.
The name of Jeffrey Whitcomb, a former Littleton fire Captain a nd senior instructor at the fire academy, was added to the memoria l. Captain Whitcomb died in the line of duty in an October 2021 training accident. Whitcomb joined the Littleton Fire Department in 1990 after serving four years in the US Navy. He retired as a Captain in 2015 and taught hundreds of first responders at the regional Career and Technical Education Center, and the New Hampshire Fire Academy.
State Fire Marshal Sean Toomey said Jeff dedicated more than 25 years to the New Hampshire fire service. He thought it was important to
recognize him and his family for their contributions.
Carlene Whitcomb, Jeff’s wife, said the ceremony was lovely and she was honored to have been there to see the respect shown to her husband. She said the family was thrilled and the fire service had been very good to the family.
The memorial was created and dedicated in September 2006. Recently, a team of volunteers and local companies made signifi cant upgrades to the memorial that needed repairs. The repairs will stabilize the memorial and add sustainability. Funding for the memorial c omes mostly from private and business donations. The memorial only receives a small amount of funding from the state.
The New Hampshire State Firemens Association provides ongoing service and maintenance to the Fallen Firefighters Memorial in Concord. - Fire News photos by Jeffrey Hastings
I was honored to be asked by the Longmeadow Fire Department to print one of my pictures I took of theirLaddertruck at a second alarm fire last week on Dunn Road. I presented the framed picture to Captain Mike Nothe last night at the station. (Left to right): Ben Sloan, ConnorCourtney, Damian McCartney, Mike Nothe and Cam Griffin. The picture will hang in the hallway of the station.
- Fire News photo by John DeForest
Manchester(NH) Fire Department was presented with a LifePak cardiac monitorforadvanced medical care by the Elliot Hospital at fire headquarters. The device will be placed into service at Engine 3 which is located at the most southern point of the city and has the longest response times forambulances. The device allows firefighters to gathercardiac-related data and have it sent directly to the hospital. It also can act as an AED if required. ManchesterEngine 3 is one of the first engines fully staffed with advanced life support personnel on all shifts, this adds Advanced Level Emergency Medical personnel including some firefighters at the Paramedic level. Chief Ryan Cashin said that when he joined the department Manchesterresponded to 8000 medical calls annually. Last year, ManchesterFire responded to 20,000 calls with the same orless staffing that was available 20 years ago. ManchesterFirefighterTimothy Johnson spoke about the machine and pointed out the multiple tools it gives responders and spoke about the wireless connectivity to the hospitals.
- Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
Chief Thomas Judge said that the Concord (MA) Fire Department distributed dozens of toys to families in need this past holiday season, following donations from students in the community. In what has become an annual tradition, members of the Concord-Carlisle High School football team, as well as students from the Willard School, have come togetherto donate toys to the Concord Firefighters Relief Association, which, in turn, donated them to families in need in Concord and beyond. Concord Fire collected over1,000 new toys in theiroriginal packaging thanks to donations from the students and others in the community. “This is a great tradition that ourmembers have come to look forward to every year,” Chief Judge said. “I want to thank ourresidents and the students from CCHS and the Willard School fortheirefforts to collect and donate these toys, and express my gratitude to the Concord Firefighters’Relief Association forspearheading this important initiative.”
- Photo courtesy of Concord FD
This year 10 families and 23 children got a helping hand from the members of Manchester (NH) Professional Firefighters Local 856 and Local 3820 who raised funds through each of the stations, enabling them to purchase each child some gifts they had asked Santa for Adopt a Family was started over 20 years ago by District Chiefs Mike Gamache and Bob Corbel who have since retired. The mission to help families in need has been passed forward to current members of the Manchester FD. - Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
This past December, Whitman-Hanson (MA) Dollars forScholars held theirannual Holiday Tree Lighting in the town park. Donors decorate trees around the park to raise money forscholarships awarded to graduating seniors at Whitman-Hanson Regional High School. This year, the tree donated by Whitman Firefighters Local #1769 was awarded 1st Place in the “Most Festive” category. Winners will have a $300 scholarship awarded in theirname to a 2023 graduate from Whitman orHanson.
Simsbury (CT) VolunteerFire Company’s Engine 1 leads the annual Simsbury Celebrates parade the Saturday after Thanksgiving 2022. The 1935 International/American LaFrance C-Model answered its last alarm in 1975. It was restored by fire company members in 1991 to use in parades and at public events.
State Fire Marshal Peter J. Ostroskey today announced the selection of Jeffrey P. Winn as director of the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy, the training division of the state’s Department of Fire Services. Winn began his new role on January 3, 2023.
Winn comes to the MFA following a 34-year career with the Massachusetts National Guar d. His experience includes service as chief of the Guard’s Training Di vision, where he was responsible for the planning, coordination, and design of individual and collective training; commander of the 1st Weapon s of Mass Destruction - Civil Support Team, where he worked closely with civilian authorities responding to chemical, biological, radiol ogical, nuclear, and explosive events; and deputy chief of staff for personnel, where he was responsible for human resources services to some 6,000 soldiers. -Submitted by Jake Wark
The Springfield Thunderbirds hosted a Hometown Heroes Night on January 28, 2023. Local emergency vehicles took the ice in between periods. Departments represented included Suffield VolunteerAmbulance Association, Hampden County Sheriff’s Department, Chicopee Police Department, Springfield Fire and Emergency Services, AMR American Medical Response, National Ambulance Company, Springfield Police Department, East Longmeadow Police Department, and Ludlow Police Department.
The Worcester(MA) Fire Department recently held a ceremony to bless the new Engine 4 at the Park Avenue firehouse. The service was attended by WorcesterFire Department Chaplin
Jonathan Slavinskas and city leaders. The new Engine 4 is a 2022 E-One Typhoon. It has a 1500-gpm pump and a 500-gallon watertank and a 30-gallon foam cell. This truck replaces a 2003 E-One Cyclone Worcestercurrently has on ordertwo more similarpumps and three 95-foot Seagrave TowerLadders.
Members of Easthampton (MA) Fire Department at attendance at the memorial held on October9, 2022, at the National Fire Academy. Members were there to honor Captain Thomas Szpila who passed away in the line of duty in 2019. (Left to right): John Ferraro, Greg Gagnon, Patrick Eline, Mike Greany and Dan Constantine. - Fire News photo by Mike Greany
On December 29, 2022, the longtime Administrative Assistant for the Whitman (MA) Fire Department worked her last day and stepped into the world of retirement. Lisa Riley dedicated the last 17 years to the Town of Whitman, working as the Administrative Assistant with the fire department.
Riley worked with the last three fFire Chiefs: Timothy Travers, Timothy Grenno and most recently, Timothy Clancy. Riley had worked longer at Whitman Fire than most of the current staff.
In a statement, Whitman Firefighters Local 1769 said that they, “Could not express how appreciative we are for all (her) hard work throughout the years.” The Official Whitman Fire/Rescue Faceboo k page wished her a long and healthy retirement.
Amy Desmond, previously an administrative assistant for the Whitman DPW, will assume the responsibility of Administrative Assistant, working in the corner office with Chief Timothy Clancy.
Michael A. Goldstein, Ph.D., a call firefighter/EMTwith Sherborn Fire Department, has taken the reins of the Massachusetts Call/Volunteer Firefighters Association (MCVFA) as its new President. President Goldstein is a call firefighter/EMTwith the Sherborn FD, and graduated from the Massachusetts Fire Academy as part of Call/Vol Class 083/086 (the class disrupted during Covid) in 2020. He holds Fire Instructor I, Firefighter I/II, and HazMat certifications. He serves on the Board of the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) and has served a Regional Vice President of the MCVFA.
Outside of his call volunteer work, Dr. Goldstein is a Professor of Finance at Babson College where he holds the Donald P. Babson Chair of Applied Investments. He currently also holds a three-year appointment as a Visiting Professorship Fellow at the Climate Change Research Center at the University of New South Wales. He also i s an Honorary Professor of Environment and Society at Brown University.
He is co-Editor-in-Chief of Financial Management and an Editor at Weather, Climate and Society , a journal of the American Meteorological Society, and Senior Editor at The Journal of Climate Finance. Previously, he was the Editor-in-Chief of The Financial Review. He is an Associate Editor at the Journal of Financial Markets and Finance Research Letters
Dr. Goldstein has received four U.S. National Science Foundation grants related to Arctic Economics.
Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive on WindsorLocks (CT) Fire Department Engine 3.
- Fire News photo by Coral Ruggiero
- Submitted by Susan Dyer
The WindsorLocks (CT) Fire Department holds a Christmas Party each yearforthe children of its members. This yearall the children present not only had parents who are members of the department but also grandparents and great grandparents who are orwere members. In addition, some families can track membership back even further.
South Kingstown (RI) Fire Chief Steven Pinch announced that the Union Fire District (UFD) successfully hosted a group of firefighters from Greece as part of a continuing, longstanding partnership with the Hellenic Volunteer Firefighters Association (HVFA). A dozen volunteer firefighters and additional personnel from the HVFAvisited the Union Fire District from October 29 to November 5, 2022. The trip served as a training opportunity for the Greek firefighters who lack advanced training facilities and equipment in their home country.
Atotal of 12 firefighters made the trip from Greece, including two female firefighters. In addition, four other members of the Hellenic Volunteer Firefighters Association attended including President Serafeim Tsiougkris, Vice
President Dimitris Zervas, International Relations Manager Maria Bitra and photographer Georgios Chionidis.
“We are very fortunate to have a state-ofthe-art training center and equipment here at UFD, and we have always enjoyed the opportunity to share our knowledge and facilities with our partners at the Hellenic Volunteer Firefighters Association,” Chief Pinch said. “This trip was a huge success once again, and we thank their members for their willingness to learn and train with us while sharing experiences from their home country.”
Volunteer firefighters from the Hellenic Volunteer Firefighters Association first came to visit the Union Fire District in 2011, as an opportunity to learn new firefighting tech-
Any time that a child has to spend in the hospital is difficult, but it is especially difficult around the holidays. That is why the Fire and Iron Firefighters Motorcycle Club held a toy drive just priorto the holiday season and was able to delivera substantial amount of toys to children hospitalized during the holidays. The South Shore chapterof Fire and Iron MC, Station-144, has had a long partnership with Signature Healthcare Brockton (MA)Hospital donating toys, and funds to theirpediatric unit. Each May, the club holds a motorcycle run which starts and ends at the hospital, with all proceeds going directly to the pediatric unit. Typically, Station 144 makes semi-annual donations of toys to the hospital. Formore information on the Fire and Iron Firefighters Motorcycle Club, visit theirwebsite at: www.fireandiron.com.
niques and collaborate with UFD members. As they did not have access to a live burn training facility in their home country, they used the trip to engage in real-time intensive training as well as meet and ask questions of their volunteer firefighter counterparts in the United States.
Atotal of 16 volunteer firefighters visited in 2011, and when they returned home they shared their experiences with their fellow first responders. Return visits were made in 2015 and 2017, with new groups of firefighters coming each time. Afourth trip was cancelled in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. This years visit served as the rescheduling of that fourth trip.
- Submitted by Matthew Reid
On the afternoon of January 13, 2023, the Professional Fire Fighters of Massachusetts (PFFM) and the Boston Bruins Foundation started their “Operation Warm” initiative, providing winter coats, gloves and hats to children in need. Lynn Ladder 2 and Engine 9 arrived at the Curwin Circle Recreation Hall, with the Boston Bruins mascot Blades riding step, full of boxes of winter items. Firefighters, and
Blades alike, were happily greeted by children and parents who live in the Curwin Circle neighborhood. Members of the PFFM, along with members of Lynn Firefighters Local 739, carried the boxes into the recreation hall where dozens of children gathered to receive them. The coats were designed and manufactured by ThreadTech, a local company based in the Boston neighborhood of Charlestown, owned by Donielle McKeever. The coats, available in black or navy, featured a tag with the PFFM and Boston Bruins Foundation logos, along with a space for the children to write their names on the coat.
Operation Warm has been held for several consecutive years but was recently suspendedue to Covid-19. All were happy to have Operation Warm back in full swing. The Lynn visit of Operation Warm was the first of three stops around the Commonwealth. The following week, firefighters distributed winter items to children in Holyoke, followed the next week with a stop in Brockton.
- Fire News photos by Pat Travers
On December30, 2023, the Worcester(MA) Fire Department held a graduation ceremony at the WorcesterTechnical High School. There were 27 graduates in the class. This was the second class of firefighters to pass through the academy in 2022. There are talks of anotherclass starting soon.
- Fire News photos by Paul Shea
The WindsorLocks (CT) Fire Department did not hold their Annual Memorial Service in 2022. Though a full service was not held, the names of those who passed away in the previous year were added to the memorial wreath during the Annual Banquet in November2022.
Decemberis always a busy month for firefighters. In addition to handling emergency calls, Orange (CT) firefighters brought the spirit of the winter holidays, donating theirown money to two different area charities, escorting Santa to about 200 homes, and arranged to have Hannukah gelt rain down from the skies.
Vernon (CT) wet down that occurred with the brand-new Tower unit 541. This ceremony occurred at the start of November2022.
Aceremony commemorating the anniversary of the Worcester(MA) Cold Storage Fire of December 3, 1999, in which six career firefighters died was held recently. This small informal ceremony was attended by friends and family as well as firefighters and city officials. There was also a group of firefighters that flew all the way from Wichita to pay theirrespects.
On the afternoon of January 25, 2023, the Professional Fire Fighters of Massachusetts (PFFM) and the Boston Bruins Foundation held the third of three “Operation Warm” events in Brockton. The “Operation Warm” initiative provides winter coats, gloves and hats to children in need. Brockton Engine 7 arrived at the Brockton Clubhouse of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Metro South, with the Boston Bruins mascot Blades in the officer’s seat, full of boxes of winter items. Brockton firefighters, and Blades alike, were happily greeted by children and the Boys & Girls Club staff. The coats, available in black or navy, featured a tag with the PFFM and Boston Bruins Foundation logos, along with a space for the children to write their names on the coat, signifying it as their own. This was the third and final stop of “Operation Warm” for 2023. Previous deliveries of winter items this year were made in the cities of Lynn and Holyoke. Additional coats that were not donated to children at this event were given to the Boys & Girls Club to d istribute to children who were unable to attend the event.
- Fire News photos by Pat Travers
It is with great sadness that the Fire Engineering/FDIC International and Clarion Events family announces the unexpecte d passing of Chief (ret.) Bobby Halton, Editor-in-Chief of Fire Engineering and Educational Director for FDIC. Chief Halton passed away at his home in Oklahoma on December 19, 2022. Halton served as our editor for the past 18 years. Halton led the editorial team and helped build the FDIC into the largest fire service educational conference in the world.
“We are devastated by the news of Bobby’s sudden passing. Bobby was a larger-than-life personality who dedicated his life to God, family, and the fire service. Bobby spent his life in service of others and his impact serving as VPof Education and Training for Clarion Fire & Rescue, was a source of great pride and personal responsibility. This is a major loss for the Clarion family and the fire service. In this difficult time, we offer our deepest condolences to Marcia, Dean, Ryan, Evan, and the entire Halton family,” said E ric Schlett, Executive Vice President, Clarion Events - Fire & Resc ue.
Chief Bobby Halton was a native New Yorker. He began his career in structural firefighting with the Albuquerque (NM) Fire Department and rose through the ranks to include Chief of Training. Halton was Chief of Operations until his retirement from Albuquerque in 2004. He then became Chief of the Coppell (TX) Fire Department. Halton left Coppell to assume the duties as Ed itorin-Chief of Fire Engineering.
Chief Halton was a graduate of the University of New Mexico, left a member in good standing with the International Associati on of Fire Fighters, was a member of the International Association of Fire Chiefs, and has served on several of the National Fire Protection Association technical committees. He was active with the Nation al Fallen Firefighters Life Safety Initiatives as well as the Fire fighter Cancer Support Network. He was a passionate fire service advocate, speaker, author, and friend to so many.
Chief (ret.) David Rhodes, Atlanta Fire Rescue Department, Content Strategist Clarion Events
“There will never be another Bobby Halton. He defied the odds with cancer and lived his life to the fullest. His passion for history, his love for America, and his understanding of the fire service made him an incredible voice for our profession. He was a trusted friend and mentor who has been a major part of my life for the past 20 years. Working directly with him full-time for the past five months has been a blessing that I will treasure forever. His life was service. I will miss you my friend.”
Captain (ret.) Michael Dugan, FDNY
“Bobby was an iconic individual who left the fire service bette r than he found it. He believed in family, trust and loyalty and there were not many like him.”
Chief (ret.) Rick Lasky, Lewisville Fire Department, TX
“The fire service just lost an incredible fire service mentor a nd leader. I just lost my big brother. He was an incredible man, father and husband. He was one of my best friends and I am so blessed that I just got to spend the weekend with him in Hawaii where my son also spent time with him. Very few people will ever have the im pact on people lives and the fire service as Bobby did. He changed the fire service. His passion and love for the fire service was second t o none. I will miss my big brother so much.”
Glenn Corbett, Technical Editor, Fire Engineering
“Bobby Halton represented the core essence of the fire service. Working with him for years on Fire Engineering magazine, FDIC, and other projects, I witnessed his unwavering devotion and love for firefighters. He always kept firefighters as his focus and mission, making sure that they received the best training possible. He w ove his editorials into philosophical motivators for many readers, encouraging them to think and act. Bobby was a unique firefighter who touched many lives His presence will be sorely missed at Fire Engineering, FDIC, and in the fire service itself.”
Captain (ret.) Mike Gagliano, Seattle Fire Department
“Bobby will never be gone for those who love our calling. His legacy is woven within the fabric of firefighters across the world who pursue our craft with passion and gratitude. No one has impacted how I think about the fireground and firefighting more than my mentor, brother and friend. He believed in you and me in a way that was contagious and inspirational, and I believe still does today. Thinking of him catching up with Bruno and Brennan, swapping stories and laughs makes me happy. This world, and my own personal walk in it, now has a hole that I can’t quite believe and it is terribly sa d. Such is the impact of a true leader, legend and authentic man of faith. Salute my friend. I look forward to the day when our Lord looks at you and says, ‘Well done thou good and faithful servant.’Well done indeed.”
Captain Bill Gustin, Miami Dade Fire Department, Technical Editor, Fire Engineering
“Bobby was such a big part of our lives. He was so talented and passionate. Everyone touched by him is not only a better fire officer but a better person. He has been such a big part of my life. I know he would want us to carry on and keep working hard every day to make each other better.”
