NEW ENGLAND Serving VOLUME 9, NO. 1
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MARCH/APRIL 2021
See story on page 23. - Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com
Planes Crash in Groton and Leicester Story on page 27.
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Fire News, March/April 2021, Page 3
In this issue... Townsend Church Fire Townsend (MA) firefighters were dispatched for a building fire on Highland Street on December 21, 2020. See story on page 6
Colchester 2-Alarm Barn Fire On October 29, 2020, Colchester (CT) fire and Yantic FAST, were dispatched to Chestnut Hill Road for a large barn fire. See story on page 9
Fire Heavily Damages Providence Temple On Christmas, the Providence (RI) Fire Department responded to the Prince Hall Masonic Temple, on Eddy Street. See story on page 12
Fatality at Merrimack Blaze An elderly woman died after a December 2, 2020, fire on Harris Avenue in Merrimack (NH). See story on page 14
Southwick Home a Total Loss On December 9, 2020, at around 0300, Southwick (MA) firefighters were called to College Highway for a report of a chimney fire. See story on page 20
A Service for New England’s Firefighters and EMS Providers Founded 1973
146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713 FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher TIM EDWARDS, Executive Editor DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor GARY P. JOYCE, Managing 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 2021, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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Obituary Acton’s Chief Robert Craig See story on page 30
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Letters to the Editor, byline articles, and columns represent the opinions of the writers and photographers and are not necessarily the views of the Fire News. We reserve the right to edit all of the above. We are not responsible for errors in advertisements beyond the cost of advertising space. Copy submitted is subject to editing for space requirements. The placing of an advertisement in this publication does not constitute endorsement. Contents are copyrighted. Editorial and advertising copy cannot be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Fire News is published monthly by Fire News Inc, with corporate offices at 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713.
Page 4, Fire News, March/April 2021
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
Are Photos Worth a Thousand Words? I have been taking photographs at fires since 1964. I started taking photographs with an Olympus Pen EE film camera that my father gave to me. It was a great camera because it split a 35mm negative in half, doubling the capacity of photos I could take. I was very young at the time and really didn’t know what I was doing. On the other hand, I quickly learned that everyone loved the photos that came out of my camera. My new hobby stayed and grew as I ventured to more and more local fires. It was my way of becoming part of my father’s engine company in Ridgewood, Queens. It wasn’t long before I was a regular at FDNY Engine 291/Ladder 140. I always left my photos and negatives (ouch!) on the kitchen table for the members to enjoy and share amongst themselves. I never cared about the content of the photographs. I cared about documenting the faces of my heroes. It wasn’t until I photographed a tragic fire where two children perished that I realized my photographs had worth. I documented a tragedy and saw a completely different attitude towards my
photographs. The firefighters actually studied the photographs and reviewed what happened. Gosh, I wish I still had those photos. Photographs can tell us a lot about an incident. Recently, I captured a fire that was near my home. It was a bedroom fire in a home that had numerous pets in it. Another neighbor, who was a member of my department, made a successful attempt to save a few of the pets. With the help of the first arriving assistant chief and our EMS crew, several pets survived the ordeal. It was interesting to see some of the Facebook comments relating to this fire. Yes, photographs are worth a thousand words. We must remember that there is a time lapse when analyzing a photograph. Video gives you a clearer understanding of what happened. There is no time-lapse looking at a single image. Example: You are walking along the beach and you see a sign that says, “No swimming!” A few feet away from you, you see a man drying off with his towel on the beach. Wow, can’t the guy read? The sign was very clear and to the point. As you continue your walk along the beach, you see a
shower on the beach. Uh oh, we now have a case for reasonable doubt. My point is that unless you are at the incident, a single photograph may not depict all of the circumstances behind the image. Photographs and video are commonplace at emergency scenes. Cameras are all over the place and can be a helpful tool in analyzing situations that occur even when we are not around to visualize the incident firsthand. In my opinion, many of the concepts of utilizing media have not changed. We are still using media to analyze emergency situations to help us get a clearer picture of what actually happened. Enjoy the photographs in Fire News, on our Facebook and Instagram social media pages, and on our website at FireNews.com. -Dennis
Page 6, Fire News, March/April 2021
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Townsend Church Fire
Townsend (MA) firefighters were dispatched for a building fire on Highland Street in the early morning hours of December 21, 2020. Arriving crews had heavy fire showing from the large church rectory and command quickly struck three alarms, bringing in mutual aid. Multiple master streams and big lines were used to knock down the main body of fire until crews could get inside to overhaul. Due
to water supply and the cold conditions command requested three additional engine companies above the third alarm. Crews remained on scene for several hours and into the day extinguishing hotspots. One person was transported from the scene with burns. - Fire News photos by Patrick Kerrigan and David Bryce
New Haven Fatal 2-Alarmer On January 4, 2021, New Haven (CT) companies arrived to find heavy fire venting out of the number one side attic window of a private dwelling on Saltonstall Avenue. During the process of the initial stretch, one victim was found and removed. Trucks opened up and the fire was quickly contained to a top-floor apartment. The cause of the fire was under investigation. One victim was pronounced at the hospital and two other civilians sustained nonlife-threatening injuries. - Fire News photo by Glenn Duda, CFPA
Structure Fire in Union Union (CT) firefighters responded to a second-alarm-plus on December 14, 2020, on Stickney Hill Road. Union is the smallest town in Connecticut with about 850 residents so structure fires are extremely rare. They had mutual aid tankers and manpower from both Connecticut and Massachusetts respond. - Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
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Marlborough House Fire
On January 6, 2021, at 2153, the Marlborough (CT) Fire Department was dispatched for a call of smoke in the street. On arrival on Keirstead Circle they encountered a working house fire. Mutual aid was dispatched to assist. - Fire News photos by Patrick Dooley
Page 8, Fire News, March/April 2021
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Two 2-Alarmers in New Britain
On January 30, 2021, at the time a fire on Washington Street came in, New Britain (CT) firefighters were already fighting a two-alarm fire on Clinton Street. Only two New Britain apparatus were able to respond to the Washington Street call, but mutual aid came from Hartford, West Hartford, Middletown and Bristol. About 15 minutes into the Washington Street scene, a second alarm was transmitted. The fire was brought under control in about 30 minutes thereafter. - Fire News photos by Joey Mayette, Patrick Dooley and Jim Peruta
USPS Truck Ignites in Nashua A US Postal Service truck traveling south on the Everett Turnpike near exit 6 pulled over when the vehicle caught fire. Nashua (NH) Fire Rescue responded at 1123 on January 24, 2021. When fire crews arrived there was a substantial fire in the engine compartment and under the vehicle. Crews stretched a hoseline and quickly knocked down the fire. The driver escaped the vehicle before the fire spread and was not injured. There were limited items in the vehicle which were safely removed. In March 2020 a similar incident occurred when a US Mail truck burst into flames on the Everett Turnpike near Exit 4. - Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
Tough Fight at Worcester 3-Alarm This was a three-alarm fire on January 2, 2021, on West Street. Worcester (MA) firefighters battled this blaze during a nor’easter. Companies had heavy fire showing on arrival and hit the fire from the outside until lines could be put in place. The snowfall made firefighting difficult. - Fire News photo by Paul Shea
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Toland Garage Fire
Tolland (CT) crews responded to a garage fire on Torry Road on November 24, 2020. - Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
Colchester 2-Alarm Barn Fire
Around 2300 on October 29, 2020, Colchester (CT) fire and Yantic FAST, was dispatched to Chestnut Hill Road for a large barn fire. Before arrival the second alarm was requested, bringing in tankers. First arriving units found the barn heavily involved with a partial collapse. Crews stretched several lines about 300 feet to the rear of the home. Due to the conditions on arrival the fire was fought defensively. Mutual aid came from Bozrah, Gardner Lake, Hebron, Oakdale, Marlborough and East Hampton. - Fire News photo by Robert Ladd; CFPA
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Challenging Fight in Great Barrington On December 29, 2020, Great Barrington (MA) crews responded to a firstalarm structure fire. Despite an aggressive initial attack with large lines, the fire was able to take hold of the attic space in the massive (7400-square foot) log cabin at the top of Berkshire Heights Road. Firefighters were challenged by heavy fire conditions and water supply issues with a lay of over 1500 feet of supply line having to be pumped from the nearest hydrant. Crews were on scene for four hours. - Fire News photo by Ed Harvey
1 Burned at Goffstown 2-Alarmer Goffstown (NH) Fire, and several surrounding towns, responded to Tirrell Hill Road for a structure fire on December 4, 2020. An off-duty firefighter was immediately on the scene and reported the sounds of explosions, and the structure fully engulfed. A male was located suffering from burns, and was brought to an arriving ambulance. Fire crews had no active fire hydrants and needed to depend on the water in their tanks while other units set up water supply. The water supply was provided by several towns’ responding mutual aid when the second alarm was requested. Fighting the fire was problematic due to a metal roof which had multiple layers of shingles under it. Firefighters worked to cut ventilation holes, but had a difficult time extinguishing the fire in the attic and roof line. The extent of burns and injuries to the male were unknown but not thought to be life threatening. - Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
9 Displaced by Bridgeport Blaze At approximately 1330 on January 13, 2021, the Bridgeport (CT) Fire Department received multiple calls for a structure fire on Vine Street. Engine 3 reported heavy fire showing from the first-floor B-side of a 2-1/2 story wood frame extending up into the second and third floors. The fire quickly escalated and a second alarm was called approximately 15 minutes later. Once the fire started taking control of the entire third floor, the evacuation tones were sounded. The Red Cross had to assist nine people who were displaced. - Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com
Wires Hamper Crews at Lynn 2-Alarm In the early morning hours of December 11, 2020, the city of Lynn (MA) struck Box 641 for a building fire. First-due companies had heavy smoke and fire showing from a 2-1/2 story frame. The fire originated in the basement and quickly went up and through the balloon framing. Crews made an aggressive interior attack and were able to keep the fire to two alarms, with two additional trucks for manpower. Members were tasked with having to run lines up ground ladders to the third floor, because the stairs to the third floor were burned out. Truckies weren’t able to throw ladders due to overhead wires. LFD Fire Chief Steve Archer worked all his companies at the two-alarm blaze. Chelsea (MA) and Revere (MA) responded mutual aid, while Boston, Marblehead, Salem, Peabody, Saugus, and Nahant (all MA) covered. - Fire News photo by Glenn Preston
Page 12, Fire News, March/April 2021
Busy in Middleboro
On January 14, 2021, Middleboro (MA) Engine 1 responded to a report of smoke in the area and found fire showing from two dwellings. A second alarm was transmitted with Middleboro Tower
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3, Lakeville Engine 1, Carver 2 and Bridgewater Tower responding. The fire quickly spread through the buildings and a third alarm was struck. Wareham and Raynham engines along with Tower 1 from Halifax responded. The fire was knocked down in about an hour. This was the fourth fire in the town in a couple of days. - Fire News photos by Bob Myers, John Sjostedt and Tyler Reardon
Fire Heavily Damages Providence Masonic Temple
On Christmas morning 2020, the Providence (RI) Fire Department responded to the Prince Hall Masonic Temple, on Eddy Street for smoke coming from the building. On arrival, Engine 13 found heavy smoke showing from the large commercial building. As companies stretched in, they found the main body of fire in the basement. The fire appeared to have a great head start and had burned
Truck Fire in Johnston Johnston (RI) firefighters were called to Plainfield Pike on December 10, 2020, for a report of a propane delivery truck on fire with exposure issues. The first-due engine reported heavy smoke in the sky. The fire was in the delivery company’s maintenance truck and was not threatening exposures. The fire was quickly knocked down using a foam handline. - Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
up through the building. Multiple lines were stretched and operated inside the structure but conditions continued to deteriorate and the Division 1 Chief made the decision to withdraw the companies and begin defensive operations. Three alarms were needed to bring the fire under control. The cause of the fire was under investigation. - Fire News photos by Tom Carmody and Ken LaBelle
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Springfield Truck Fire
Springfield (MA) firefighters battled a tractor trailer fire on Performance Boulevard, recently. Crews made an aggressive attack on the fire before it spread to multiple tractor trailers. Two engines, the district chief and arson squad responded and the fire was under investigation. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
Defensive Fight in Monroe At approximately 1030 on December 9, 2020, the Monroe (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to Hattertown Road for a structure fire. Companies arrived to a 2-1/2 story wood frame private dwelling. Soon after, all members were pulled from the building due to deteriorating conditions, hidden fire spread, and fireworks becoming involved in the fire. One member fell through a staircase causing a Mayday to be called, but was quickly recalled as he was helped to safety and continued to fight the fire. There were no reported injuries to the residents who were reported out of the house at the time of the fire. Mutual aid responded from Botsford, Stevenson, Oxford, Stepney, Shelton and Trumbull. - Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com
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Fatality at Merrimack Blaze An elderly woman died after a December 2, 2020, fire on Harris Avenue, according to Merrimack (NH) Interim Fire Chief Matthew Duke. Merrimack firefighters responded for a house fire around 0500 and found heavy fire in the front portion of the two-story home. Fire crews worked to knock down the fire so they could make entry to search for an occupant reportedly inside. Firefighters were challenged to search the house due to a large amount of contents. Crews located an elderly woman in the rear of the house, removed her and performed CPR, but were unable to revive her. A second alarm was struck bringing several towns and cities to the scene and to Merrimack for coverage. The fire was brought under control in approximately an hour. - Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
2-Alarmer in Stoneham On December 31, 2020, crews responded to a two-alarm fire on Bow Street in Stoneham (MA). - Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan
Brookline 2-Alarm Barn & House Fire On November 10, 2020, just before 1100, Brookline (NH) Fire responded to a barn fire. On arrival, fire crews had heavy fire showing from the barn, which was attached to a residential structure. A second alarm was immediately requested for personnel and water supply. A metal roof on the barn and residence kept the heat and fire inside the structure. A third alarm was requested as there were no hydrants. Multiple ambulances were requested from several NH and MA departments. One firefighter was transported with unknown injuries. An excavator was brought in to remove parts of the barn to allow the fire to be fully extinguished. - Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
Several Families Displaced by Woonsocket Fire On the night of February 3, 2021, the Woonsocket (RI) Fire Department responded to Robinson Street for a house fire. On arrival, Engine 3 reported a three-story, wood frame house fully involved. A second alarm was struck, which brought all on-duty Woonsocket companies, as well as mutual aid from several surrounding towns. Numerous lines were stretched and operated and the fire was knocked down within 20 minutes. One resident was treated for burns by rescue but refused transport. The cause of the fire was under investigation. - Fire News photo by Tom Carmody
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Mayday Cleared in Shelton Blaze At approximately 1244 on January 14, 2021, the Shelton (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to Waterford Lane for a kitchen fire. First units found heavy fire showing from two windows on the D-side of a wood frame private dwelling. All occupants and pets were reported out of the structure before arrival and an interior attack was commenced. Conditions deteriorated quickly as the fire spread rapidly throughout the home and all members were ordered out of the structure for a defensive attack. A Mayday was called during overhaul operations when two firefighters broke through the fire ravished second floor. Neither were injured and the Mayday was quickly cleared. - Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com
3 FFs Injured, 2 Civs. Displaced in Springfield Blaze Springfield (MA) firefighters battled a second alarm blaze on Pennsylvania Avenue on December 24, 2020, just before 0300. Crews arrived to heavy smoke and fire showing from a two-story wood frame home. Crews attacked the fire defensively initially before entering the home. Crews entered when a Mayday was called, which was cleared. A second alarm was struck by District Chief Tyrone Denson and the evacuation tones were activated. Three firefighters were injured battling the blaze; all suffered non-life-threatening injuries. It took crews about 45 minutes to extinguish the fire. Two residents were displaced and the home was a complete loss. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
Hingham House Destroyed Around 1300 on the afternoon of December 15, 2020, the Hingham (MA) Fire Department responded to a house fire on Main Street. Companies arrived to heavy fire showing from a three-story, wood framed, single-family house. Companies made an aggressive push through the front door while heavy fire poured out of the front of the home. Shortly after, a second alarm was requested. Firefighters worked quickly to knock down heavy fire which was rapidly spreading through the old home. Multiple handlines were placed into operation. A third alarm was struck approximately 30-minutes into the fire. Mutual aid came from Braintree, Hull, Norwell, Rockland and Weymouth. The Massachusetts Department of Fire Services sent their rehab, along with the Boston Spark Association rehab unit. The Red Cross was on-scene assisting residents as well as firefighters. A family of five was left homeless. The recently renovated house, which was built in 1861, was worth an estimated $2.6 million. - Fire News photo by Pat Travers
Fast Moving Fire in Norwich Horse Barn On November 8, 2020, Norwich (CT) firefighters responded for a second alarm on Corning Road. Crews arrived to a well involved metal-clad barn. The second alarm was called for poor water pressure and manpower. Command also requested, a level 1 hazmat response which added Squad 67 from the submarine base. One horse died in the fast moving fire, but several others were rescued by the owners of the building. - Fire News photo by Robert Ladd, CFPA
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Millbury House Fire On the morning of January 31, 2021, Millbury (MA) Fire responded to Waters Street for a house fire. They arrived to heavy fire out the rear third floor. An aggressive attack was launched and mutual aid was called to the scene and for cover. The Sutton Fire Department was able to wiggle their ladder through some rear property, between some trees and get to the rear of the house. The third-floor tenant’s cat was safely removed from the house. One firefighter was transported. Mutual aid came from Auburn (MA) and Grafton (MA). - Fire News photo by Bud Harris
East Haven Multi-Alarm
The East Haven (CT) fire department was alerted for a condo fire on Redwood Drive on January 24, 2021. Companies were met with heavy fire in the rear of a large condo complex on both floors. The heavy fire also caused a large fire in a wooded area abutting the complex, which, in turn, threatened nearby homes. Firefighters pulled multiple 2-1/2 inch lines and went to work darkening down the fire. They then transitioned to an interior attack. Additional alarms were transmitted bringing companies from North Branford, Branford and New Haven to the scene. The fire took about an hour to bring under control. Several people were left homeless by the blaze. One pet died in the fire. The cause of the fire was under investigation. - Fire News photo by Glenn Duda, CFPA
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Southwick Home a Total Loss On December 9, 2020, at around 0300, Southwick (MA) firefighters were called to College Highway for a report of a chimney fire. Crews arrived to find a large single-story wood framed home well involved with fire through the roof. A second alarm was sounded requesting Suffield (CT) and Granby (CT) to the scene, and Granville (MA) to cover. Crews went defensive and East Granby (CT) was called for manpower. Crews battled the blaze for over 2-1/2 hours before bringing the stubborn fire under control. The home was a total loss. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
Kingston 3-Alarmer On January 23, 2021, at approximately 2130 Kingston (MA) firefighters responded to Wright Court for a house fire. First arriving companies encountered heavy fire on the B and C sides. Companies attacked the fire and protected exposures and a second alarm was struck. Mutual aid came from Duxbury, Pembroke, Plympton and Halifax to the scene and for coverage. DFS rehab was called to the scene due to extremely low temperatures. - Fire News photo by Erik Dowd
West Springfield 2-Alarmer West Springfield (MA) firefighters were called recently to the intersection of Memorial Avenue and Baldwin Street for a structure fire. Crews arrived to a large, three-story, wood framed home with heavy smoke and fire from the third floor. A second alarm was sounded. Crews made an attack on the fire and it was quickly knocked down. All tenants made it out safely. Springfield (MA) provided a truck company and Agawam (MA) covered. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
Baltic Church Fire
Baltic (CT) Fire and mutual aid, were dispatched to St. Mary’s Rectory on West Main Street for a building fire. Car 24 arrived to smoke showing from the rear of the building. The first engine stretched to the rear and found the kitchen involved. The fire was knocked down within a few minutes of dispatch. - Fire News photo by Robert Ladd, CFPA
Milford Tractor Trailer Fire
On December 17, 2020, the Milford (CT) Fire Department responded a full assignment to the Old Gate Lane truck stop for a tractor-trailer fire. Companies arrived to find a fully involved tractor-trailer with an exposure to two additional trucks. Companies were hampered by a recent snowfall, freezing temperatures and bad hydrants. Multiple handlines were stretched and operated with foam to knock down the heavy volume of fire. The original trailer was carrying fresh produce. The health department and State of CT DEEP were also called to assist. Witnesses on the scene said the fire started in the refer unit and rapidly spread. - Fire News photo by Glenn Duda, CFPA
Lexington 3-Bagger An early morning blaze broke out in Lexington (MA) on January 29, 2021, in a large, twostory frame, on Maple Street. Crews arrived to heavy smoke and fire showing. An aggressive interior attack was followed by an evacuation of the building and defensive operations. Pumps laid several hundred feet of feeder, to deckguns, as well as a tower and ladderpipe. Temps were down to -5F, with the windchill at this frigid three-alarmer. - Fire News photo by Glenn S. Preston
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East Hartford 2-Alarmer
Hartford Working Fire
East Hartford (CT) responded for a two-alarm fire on Cipolla Drive on January 16, 2021, at 1822. Companies arrived to fire showing and the DC struck the second alarm. - Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
On January 20, 2021, Hartford (CT) firefighters responded to a fire in the walls on Jefferson Street in the City’s South End. - Fire News photo by Jim Peruta
Hartford Structure Fire Hartford (CT) firefighters were called out to a fire on Magnolia Street on December 31, 2020. The first arriving district chief found a 21/2 story wood frame with fire showing from the top floor. A quick attack was mounted, and the fire was brought under control in short order. Firefighters remained on scene for about two hours. - Fire News photo by Jim Peruta
Hartford Gets New Apparatus
On January 22, 2021, the Hartford (CT) Fire Department took delivery of two brand new, identical E-One Typhoon Engines. One is assigned to Engine 2 in the city's North End, while Engine 5 is assigned to Engine 5 on Farmington Avenue. In the past year the city of Hartford has spec'd out and purchased four pieces of apparatus. Good luck to the city of Hartford with their latest apparatus. - Fire News photo by Nick Peruta
Page 22, Fire News, March/April 2021
Heavy Fire in Central Falls Central Falls (RI) firefighters responded to High Street for a dwelling fire on February 2, 2021. Companies arrived to heavy fire from division 1 on side B. The fire was traveling upwards through the B/C corner stairway of the 2-1/2 story wood frame. Command requested three alarms to the scene to bring this fire under control. The fire extended up to division 3 before companies reported that all fire was knocked down with extensive overhauling operations on all floors. - Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
No Hydrant Fight in Stamford Just after midnight on December 4, 2020, Stamford (CT) firefighters were dispatched to Smoke Hill Drive for a structure fire. On arrival, Engine 9 found fire showing from the garage of the home and extending up the side to the first and second floors. A tanker task force was brought due to no hydrants in the area. Companies stretched lines and made a strong initial push on the fire, but a loss of water forced companies to be removed from the home. A second push was made by firefighters to try and get to the fire on the upper floors but crews were pulled out a short time later as the structural integrity of the dwelling became compromised. Companies worked large handlines and blitz guns from the exterior. The fire was brought under control within 90 minutes. Two tanker task force groups involving multiple departments in Connecticut and New York were brought in to supply water during the fire. - Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com
“Chain, Chain, Chain” ….in North Canaan
On December 31, 2020, North Canaan (CT) and Norfolk firefighters were dispatched for a structure fire on Salisbury Road. First arriving units were able to quickly determine the fire was contained to the chimney. Ladder 1 sent a crew to the roof to send the chains down. Units cleared the scene in about an hour. - Fire News photo by Ed Harvey
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Quick Stop in Kingston
On February 5, 2021, Kingston (NH) firefighters were running multiple calls when they got a call for a car fire in a grocery store parking lot. Firefighters quickly knocked the fire down and kept it from spreading to nearby vehicles. - Fire News photo by Rob Reardon
Busy 7 Days for New Bedford About noon on January 28, 2021, New Bedford (MA) Unit 2 was stopped at a traffic light when several citizens directed them to a nearby building fire. Engines 9, 8 and 7, and Ladders 4 and 1 also responded. Heavy fire was showing from the top floor and a second alarm was struck. Engines 1 and 5 responded on the second alarm. Crews ran several handlines to the top floor and quickly knocked down the fire. This was the fifth fire in the city in seven days and the third extra alarm fire. - Fire News photo by Bob Myers
Infant Burned in Leicester Fire
On January 4, 2021, crews responded to a working fire on Watch Street on the Leicester (MA) line. The fire was in a single-family dwelling which also housed a daycare center. An infant received serious burns and had to be transferred to a burn center for treatment. - Fire News photo by Paul Shea
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Fire News, March/April 2021, Page 23
Cover Story
Fatality at Greenwich Commercial Building Fire Just before 1600 on December 17, 2020, Greenwich (CT) firefighters were dispatched to East Putnam Avenue for a car into a building with entrapment. A second call stated that the building was on fire and the box was upgraded. Police officers reported heavy smoke coming from the building. As police tried to make entry to make a rescue, heavy smoke hampered their efforts. The first crew started stretching lines to make a push into the building. Companies made a strong push but were forced out due to a heavy fire load and concerns about structural stability. Crews transitioned to a defensive operation while they worked to knock down the large body of the fire in the building. Multiple handlines and a tower ladder were put into operation and crews were able to knock down the fire. Later, it would be confirmed that the driver of the vehicle had died in the accident. - Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com
Page 24, Fire News, March/April 2021
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Somerville Blaze
8 Saved at Manchester Residential Fire
- Fire News photo by Glenn Preston
- Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
Quick Stop in Shirley
Electrical Fire in Kingston
- Fire News photo by Patrick Kerrigan
- Fire News photo by John Sjostedt
Cranston House Fire
Quick Stop in Webster
- Fire News photo by Tom Carmody
- Fire News photo by Bud Harris
Chicopee 3-Alarmer
Fall River Fire in the Walls
- Fire News photo by John DeForest
- Fire News photo by Ken Leger
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Fire News, March/April 2021, Page 25
Massachusetts Awards Fire Education Grants to 239 Departments
The Baker-Polito Administration today announced that 239 municipal fire departments will receive nearly $2 million in grants to fund fire education programs for children and older adults across Massachusetts. Fire departments in 235 communities will receive Student Awareness of Fire Education (S.A.F.E) and Senior SAFE grants; four communities will receive SAFE grants only; and three communities will receive Senior SAFE grants only. “Since 1996, the SAFE program has brought fire education to hundreds of thousands of students in the Commonwealth,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “This program allows firefighters and teachers to work together to provide fire and life safety education to young people. This collaboration contributed to a major accomplishment. No children died in fires in Massachusetts last year.” The average number of children dying in fires annually has dropped by 78 percent since the SAFE Program began. The Senior SAFE Program is in its seventh year, providing firefighters with the funding to deliver fire safety education to another vulnerable population - seniors. “Home visits, smoke and CO alarm installations, and fire safety presentations at senior centers by firefighters with senior agencies help
older adults develop strategies to stay safe at home for longer,” said Lt. Governor Karyn Polito. “The SAFE and Senior SAFE grants represent a smart investment in fire safety,” said Public Safety and Homeland Security Secretary Thomas Turco. “Youngsters and older adults are historically at greater risk in house fires, but that risk can be reduced through the targeted outreach, education, and awareness programs these grants help to fund,” he added. State Fire Marshal Peter J. Ostroskey said, “The SAFE and Senior SAFE Programs are successful because we have trained firefighters who deliver education to children and older adults. The fire departments being supported in these public education efforts are increasing the safety of the people in their communities.” The SAFE and Senior SAFE Programs provide $1.9 million through the Executive Office of the Public Safety and Security to local fire departments. The programs are administered by the state Department of Fire Services. - Submitted by Jennifer Mieth
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Merrimack MVA Injures 1; Truck Leaves the Scene Merrimack (NH) Fire, EMS, and Police responded to an MVA on Route 101 and Continental Boulevard just before 2100 on December 20, 2020. Responding units were advised a woman was trapped in the car, and the accident involved a plow truck. Crews arrived and began extrication. Police were advised that a plow truck, according to a witness, allegedly failed to stop at the red light, and then struck the car head-on. The witnesses said the plow truck did not stop and left the scene. Police were contacting NH-DOT for assistance in identifying the truck. The woman was transported to a local hospital with what appeared to be serious but non-life-threatening injuries. - Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
Boston Medflight to the Rescue Lincoln (RI) Rescue 1 with Boston Medflight taking off after delivering a trauma patient to RI Hospital on December 6, 2020. - Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
1 injured in Fall River 2-Car On January 21, 2021, in Fall River (MA), shortly after 1300, fire and EMS units were dispatched to an MVA at Brayton Avenue and Grace Street. Units arrived to an SUV that came to rest against a utility pole with another vehicle facing west in the eastbound lane. Firefighters from Heavy Rescue 1 and Engine 4 used hydraulic and battery operated tools to free a female victim from her car. She was transported to a local trauma center. - Fire News photo by Ken Leger
Door Pop in Whitman Around 0830 on December 21, 2020, the Whitman (MA) Fire Department responded to the intersection of Harvard at Auburn Streets for an MVA. Engine 243, Ambulance 249 and Car 3 responded. Companies arrived to find a two-car accident with two victims. Ambulance 247 was requested to respond. Firefighters utilized Engine 243’s hydraulic cutters and spreaders to pop the driver’s door to extricate the victim. The injured were transported to the Brockton Hospital and South Shore Hospital. - Fire News photo by Pat Travers
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All Survive Plane Crash Near Worcester
Around 1700 on February 2, 2021, a plane on final approach to Worcester (MA) Airport crashed after the pilot had radioed the tower reporting a problem. It was unknown the exact location where the plane came to rest, but was thought to be on Moose Hill Road, which is on the Leicester, Spencer and Paxton town lines. Leicester and Spencer responded and were met by Environmental Police who were nearby. The plane came to rest about 20 yards
from a house. The residents were not home at the time of the crash and their driveway was not plowed. Neighbors with snowmobiles assisted firefighters by tying Stoke’s baskets to the snowmobiles for the trip up the hill, which was covered with over a foot of fresh snow. Three people and a dog aboard the plane survived the crash, which is under investigation. - Fire News photo by Paul Shea
Everybody Walks Away from Plane Crash into House in Groton Recently, Groton (CT) Fire Alarm dispatched Poquonnock Bridge Fire Department (PBFD), Groton Ambulance and Yale medics for a plane crash in the area of Ring Drive at Donna Drive. Crews arrived to a small plane into a house. PBFD requested Submarine Base Engine 62 and Squad 67 (HazMat) and Groton Ambulance. It was reported that all parties walked out of the structure. Fire crews and Groton Police searched the area for more victims and set up a water supply. Once the area was cleared, and command requested officials from the town and airport authority. The Groton-New London Airport Fire Department and Mystic River Ambulance also responded. - Fire News photo by Robert Ladd CFPA
Snowmobiles Thru the Ice On February 6, 2021, Hebron (NH) firefighters were called for a snowmobile through the ice. Bystanders pulled the victim out of frigid Newfound Lake waters. The sled was at the bottom of the lake approximately 35-feet deep. The victim was transported to a local hospital. This was the third snowmobile through the ice on this sunny day. - Fire News photo by Rob Reardon
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Training
Arlington Coldwater Rescue Practice The members of the Arlington (MA) Fire Department practiced ice/cold water rescue on Hill’s Pond in Menotomy Rocks Park. Firefighters wearing cold-water rescue suits used an ice rescue sled to practice removing the firefighter — ‘victim’— who had fallen through the ice. - Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan
Tough Training for Suffield & East Granby On October 19, 2020, the Suffield and East Granby Fire Departments were at the Connecticut Fire Academy for training in a trailer equipped with a SCBA maze. It required participants to navigate through confined spaces with sliding panels, looped cords, portholes, metal tubes and obstructed and awkward spaces all while being monitored by CFA instructors in the maze room and control room via cameras also equipped with night vision cameras which aided instructors in the total blackout conditions. - Fire News photo by Jenn Tilsch Nardi Golden
Live Burn at Conneticut Fire Academy Hartford (CT) County Regional Fire School Firefighter 1 class took part in the class’s live burn at the Connecticut Fire Academy in Windsor Locks. The class did multiple evolutions including basement fire attack, search and rescue first and second floors, fire attack second floor, ground ladders, and RIT. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
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Training
Oxford Trains with Life Flight On January 9, 2021, Oxford (MA) Fire and EMS held a hands-on training with Life Flight. They covered setting up a proper LZ as well as going over the capabilities and operations of the helicopter. - Fire News photo by Bud Harris
Leicester Live Fire Training Members of Leicester (MA) Fire Company 3 participated in a live fire training day at the Dennis R. Lemery Training Center in Killingly (CT). - Fire News photo by Bud Harris
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Holiday Decorations on the Highland Fire Station in Arlington (MA) - Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan
Holiday Decorations on the Park Circle Fire Station in Arlington (MA) - Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan
No Children Died in Fires in Massachusetts in 2020 First Year No One Under 18 Died in Fires State Fire Marshal Peter J. Ostroskey announced that for the first time on record, no children died in fires in Massachusetts in 2020. Historically, children and seniors have been most at risk of dying in fires. “To have no children, no one under the age of 18, die in a fire in Massachusetts is an amazing accomplishment. Through the 26 years of the Student Awareness of Fire Education Program (SAFE), firefighters and classroom teachers have been helping to raise a fire-safe generation of children.” Saugus Fire Chief Michael C. Newbury, president of the Fire Chiefs’ Association of Massachusetts, said, “This milestone speaks to the hard work of firefighter-educators to teach children what to do to save themselves in a fire. We find fewer children hiding under beds or in closets, because they know how to use their home escape plan.” State Fire Marshal Ostroskey said, “Ultimately, responsibility for home fire safety rests with the adults in the home, but the S.A.F.E Program has brought key safety information on maintaining smoke
alarms, practicing home fire drills, cooking, heating, candle and match and lighter safety home to those adults. Goodness knows there’s nothing like being nagged by a third grader to test your smoke alarm.” “Just after this new year began, a child did suffer serious burns in an Oxford house fire. That reinforces how vigilant we must be to keep our children safe from fires and burns,” said Ostroskey. Preliminary data from the Massachusetts Fire Incident Reporting System (MFIRS) indicates that there were 39 fire deaths in 2020, down from 42 in 2019. The deaths were all adults and 15, or nearly 40 percent, were adults over the age of 65. The majority - 31 - died in the so-called safety of their own homes. Half of these deaths occurred in homes where there were no working smoke alarms. “Working smoke alarms give you the one thing you don’t have in a fire — time — time to escape,” said Ostroskey. There is only one-to-three minutes to escape the average house fire in a home without fire sprinklers. - Submitted by Jennifer Mieth
Obituary
Acton’s Chief Robert Craig
Robert C. Craig, 73, of Westford (MA), a retired Firefighter and Chief for the Town of Acton, died December 11, 2020 in Boston. Bob was loyal to the Town of Acton during his entire career of almost 44 years of service, holding every officer position as he climbed the ladder as a member of the Acton Fire Department which included his last 22 years as Fire Chief. Bob held an Associate Degree in Fire Science and Technology and was a graduate of the Executive Fire Officer Program of the National
Fire Academy. He was an active contributor to several national and international professional organizations and chief associations. Bob served for over 20 years as a member of the Massachusetts Fire Training Council and after retirement continued to serve as appointed by the Governor to represent the Citizens of the Commonwealth. The family will honor Bob with a brick at the Massachusetts Fallen Firefighters Memorial. - Fire News photo by Shaun Shattuck
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Whitman Fire Tasked with Covid Testing, Vaccinations
Firefighter/paramedics in Whitman (MA) have recently taken on the task of performing Covid-19 testing and also Covid-19 vaccination of area first responders. Members of the team, referred to as a “Shot Team,” agreed to be a part of the testing and vaccinations program being hosted by the Town of Whitman at the Central Fire Station at 56 Temple Street. Starting in late December, Whitman Fire started a program in which drive-up testing would be available for town employees who are experiencing symptoms of Covid-19, or who had a known exposure to someone who has Covid-19. Both rapid, and PCR testing is available. This is in an effort to keep town employees safe, and keep the virus from spreading, especially during this time of very high Covid numbers being reported throughout Massachusetts. Thus far, the program has been suc-
cessful, catching positive cases, and keeping the employees out of work, thus keeping their co-workers and families safe. Starting on January 23, Whitman Fire opened its doors to firefighters for their first dose of the Moderna Covid-19 vaccine. The clinic is held at the fire station and is staffed by Shot Team paramedics who administer the vaccine, document the vaccination, and monitor the patients for adverse reactions. Once the Whitman firefighters who wish to be vaccinated are, other town first responders will also be vaccinated and then the site will be open to first responders from Abington, Avon, Bridgewater State, East Bridgewater, Halifax, Hanson, Holbrook, Lakeville, Middleboro, Randolph, Raynham, Rockland and West Bridgewater according to the mass.gov website. - Fire News photos by Pat Travers
New Ambulance for Chicopee Mark Grabowski (Complete Restoration Solutions) with Chicopee (MA) Deputy Fire Chiefs Wayne LeMay and Matthew Cross taking delivery of the city’s new Fire/EMT Ambulance. - Fire News photo by Mark Grabowski
3 New Apparatus for Brockton Brockton (MA) Fire has put three new Pierce Enforcer pumpers in service at Engines 4, 5 and 7. - Fire News photo by Bob Myers
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Up Close & Personal
Tough job at Manchester 2-alarmer. - Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
Witch City Jake and Union President Firefighter Ray Krajeski, with son and future Salem Firefighter Andrew. - Fire News photo by Glenn S. Preston
Branford (CT) Deputy Chief Tim Murray. - Fire News photo by Glenn Duda, CFPA
Porch fire damages Providence home. - Fire News photo by Tom Carmody
Firefighters responding to a working fire on Watch Street on the Leicester (MA) line on January 4, 2021. - Fire News photo by Paul Shea A probationary firefighter from the Trumbull Center (CT) Volunteer Fire Department at a recent house fire on Hattertown Road in Monroe (CT) on December 9, 2020. - Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com
Ayer (MA) Chief of Department Timothy Johnston. - Fire News photo by Patrick Kerrigan
Chelsea (MA) firefighters after a recent alarm. - Fire News photo by Glenn Preston
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Up Close & Personal Johnston (RI) firefighter at a Plainfield Pike propane delivery truck fire on December 10, 2020. - Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
Manchester (CT) Truck 2nd Lieutenant Chip Atzback and Firefighter Ryan Paretti. - Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
Bridgeport (CT) Firefighters on scene at Vine Street structure fire on January 13, 2021. - Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com
Somerville (MA) firefighters after a recent alarm. - Fire News photo by Glenn Preston
Firefighters from the Hartford (CT) Fire Department after a recent fire. - Fire News photo by Jim Peruta
Community Fire Company of Thompson (CT) Lieutenant Tony Fitzherbert was visited at a recent live fire training day by his daughter and future firefighter Arianna. - Fire News photo by Bud Harris
Chicopee (MA) Lieutenant Dina Brunetti, an Engine 7 officer. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
Off-duty Bridgeport (CT) Lieutenant Marcus Dierna takes his son to his first fire, a two-alarmer in Bridgeport (CT) on January13, 2021. - Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com
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SUTPHEN CORPORATION SHATTERS INDUSTRY RECORD SUTPHEN’S NEW INDUSTRIAL PUMPER IS THIRD-PARTY RATED AT A RECORD 6000 GPM FROM DRAFT Sutphen Corporation, the largest family-owned fire apparatus manufacturer in the nation, announced that its new Sutphen Industrial Solutions Pumper shattered the industry’s record with a third-party rating of 6,000 gallons per minute from draft. While officially rated at 6,000 gallons per minute from draft, the industrial pumper is capable of flowing over 6,500 gallons per minute from draft with unmatched abilities to pump from a pressurized source. “As we continue to innovate and build our industrial portfolio, this record-setting apparatus solidifies Sutphen as a leader in the industrial fire industry,” said Zach Rudy, Sutphen’s Director of Sales and Marketing. “Between our renown pumpers and world-class aerials, we provide our customers with the best options in the industrial fire market.” Built on a Sutphen extreme-duty, Monarch chassis, the 304-stainless-steel industrial body was manufactured for the extreme conditions found on an industrial fire ground. Complete with a Double Thunder, Hale’s 6,000 gallon per minute midship pump, and a direct-inject foam system, the unit highlights
Sutphen’s abilities to integrate innovation into every aspect of its trucks. “We are proud to have participated in bringing this powerful, high-quality, heavyduty industrial pumper to the market,” said Jim Kirvida, leader of Sutphen Industrial Solutions. “Collaboration between our two like-minded engineering and manufacturing teams resulted in a record-breaking rating of 6000-plus GPM, proving Sutphen a respected leader in the industrial fire market.” Sutphen and its network of dealers are currently demonstrating the unit across the
country while it awaits a buyer. The demonstration unit is available for an accelerated delivery. For additional information regarding the Sutphen Industrial Solution pumper, follow this link: https://www.sutphen.com/ in-stock/demo-479-industrial-pumper/