SOUTHERN NEW ENGLAND Serving VOLUME 8, NO. 3
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Fire,Serving Rescue & EMS Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Heroes Since 1973 Since 1973 MAY 2020
See story on page 19. - Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
Helpful COVID-19 Information Please See Pages 4 & 6.
FireNews.com
Fire News, May 2020, Page 3
In this issue... Spencer Blaze Goes to 5 Alarms Firefighters in Spencer (MA) battled a five-alarm blaze on Sherry Lane. See story on page 7
Waterbury Apartment Fire Waterbury (CT) firefighters responded for a fire in a vacant three-story apartment building. See story on page 10
Pawtucket Multi-Alarm Fire Pawtucket (RI) Fire Alarm dispatched crews to a fire on Rand Street. See story on page 11
Winchendon 3-Alarmer Firefighters battled a three-alarm house fire in Winchendon (MA). See story on page 14
Housatonic River Rescue The Derby (CT) Fire Department responded to the Housatonic River for a person in the water. See story on page 23
A Service for Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island 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, Asst. Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production/Sales CLIFF CHIESA, Art Director/Production Manager Advertising Sales: BARBARA CONNOLLY, Graphic Artists: GREG JONES, LYNN SEDLER CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS ALAN BRACKETT, AMANDA CARMODY, THOMAS CARMODY, OWEN CARRIGAN, KEVIN CZARZASTY, JOHN DEFOREST, TIM DELANEY, ROB DILLON, PATRICK DOOLEY, DOUG DOW, OLIVIA DRAKE, GLENN DUDA, LIZ FEITELBERG, JIM FORTIN, JR., SEAN FREIMAN, JOHN HANLEY, ED HARVEY, JEFFREY HASTINGS, STEPHEN HESS, MIKE IPPOLITO, DORRANCE “DOC” JOHNSON, RICK KULMANN, KEN LABELLE, ROBERT LADD, MICHAEL LAPRADE, SCOTT LAPRADE, PAUL LAROCHELLE, JR., KEN LEGER, KEITH MURATORI, BOB MYERS, RICK NOHL, BILL NOONAN, PETER OSTROSKEY JR., CHRIS PALMER, JIM PERUTA, PETER POZERSKI, GLENN PRESTON, ROB REARDON, DICK SCIALABBA, PAUL SHEA, JOE SHEFER, RICK SUSI, JON TENCA, PAT TRAVERS, DEVON WHALEN, KEVIN WHITE COPYRIGHT 2020, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
For advertising rates and information, call (631) 776-0500 Press 3 Editorial: (631) 776-0500 Ext 281 Fax number: (631) 286-6866 Internet: http://www.firenews.com e-mail: tim@firenews.com
Eight Editions Serving Long Island, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Pennsylvania and Virginia Proud Member Of:
Orange Firefighters Mourn Loss of Fire Marshal Tim Smith
Orange (CT) was reeling from the loss of long-time Fire Marshal Tim Smith, who died on January 19, 2020. See story on page 28
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 4 Up Close & Personal . . . . . . . . . . . pages 24-25 Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 26 Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 30 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 30 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 31
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, May 2020
FireNews.com
From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
Wear Your Mask! On March 11, 2020, the COVID-19 outbreak was characterized as a pandemic by the WHO (World Health Organization). This is the first pandemic known to be caused by the emergence of a new coronavirus, namely COVID 19. As this disease took hold of the world, our fire rescue and emergency services were faced with educating and setting up protocols for dealing with the disease. Thanks to our doctors, research organizations and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and County EMS and FRES organizations, guidelines were set up for handling patients that were suspected of having COVID 19. I am very proud of how our first responders have been involved with this pandemic from the “get go” and set up recommendations for all departments to follow. Their daily updates on the disease have kept anyone involved with patient care informed about the progress of the disease. They have updated you around the clock with recommendations, who to call if you have problems, patient testing and personal safety. Guidelines for patient care and transport were sent to everyone. Not only have guidelines been set for our EMS providers, guidelines were set for general fire alarm response. How should you respond? Where should you sit on the rig? What should you do when you return to
quarters? These are a few of the questions that were addressed by FRES. According to the CDC, people 65 and over account for 80 percent of the deaths from COVID 19. Agencies should strongly consider not having members in that age group respond. Fire Police should not respond unless requested by the IC. Departments should consider relaxing LOSAP requirements. Members should not worry about consequences to their quota or LOSAP credit. Limit the number of vehicles that respond and the number of personnel that may be exposed to people or premises on the alarm. Keep ambulance crews staffed with a minimum crew. If more members are needed, request additional personal. Check with your county EMS and fire rescue and emergency services for recommendations. I recently listened to a Webinar about the “mask debate.” The Zoom (a means of holding group meetings over the Internet) presentation was excellent. (My compliments to Suffolk County FRES and Northwell Health EMS on providing in-depth knowledge on how this disease spreads.) In general, there is no debate. Wear your mask! Whether it is a N95 mask or a common surgical mask, wear it properly. What should you do if you do not have a mask? I am sure you have seen the creative and designer masks
people are making at home. Yes, these homemade masks help. What you want to do is to understand how COVID 19 spreads. You must keep your distance and to prevent aerosol or airborne droplets from coming in contact with your face, wear the mask. Droplets of this disease can spread through handshaking, sneezing and exhalation. It is important that the patient dons a mask. A simple sneeze can spread 40,000 particles at 100m/second. Each sneeze can contain millions of viral particles. In closing, I remind you that I am no expert on the spread of COVID 19. However, I highly recommend that you speak with the doctors and your county EMS and FRES officials. To all responders; Thank You For Your Service! - Dennis
FireNews.com
Fire News, May 2020, Page 5
Page 6, Fire News, May 2020
FireNews.com
Implementations for ISOs and HSOs During COVID-19 • If personnel are off duty they should not be in the station/admin The Fire Department Safety Officers Association (FDSOA) recommends implementing the following actions during the COVID-19 pan- facilities. demic, if your department has not already: • Eliminate in-person, non-essential meetings. Use teleconferencing • Screen personnel when they are coming on duty and then 12 hours if possible. Promote telecommuting for non-essential personnel. later (24-hour shifts). If they have 100.4°F temperature or signs/symp• Utilize social distancing while on duty. toms of illness, send them home. Ensure your Infection Control Officer • Eliminate social functions (bingo, pancake breakfast, company is notified, if any personnel are identified. meetings, allowing the public into the station for station tours). Some agencies are just using fever/chills and signs/symptoms of a • If there isn’t a plan for reductions in workforce, then work to crerespiratory illness (dyspnea, cough), another agency is saying if they have two or more of the following: muscle aches and pain; nonproduc- ate one — this should be part of your COOP. tive cough; sore throat; runny nose; nausea; send them home. • Have a plan to quarantine personnel if directed (where will they go, what leave status will they be placed on, food, etc.). ** Check with your medical directors/hospital systems, etc. for local recommendations. ** • For volunteer companies with live-ins, have a plan to relocate them if they become ill. • Develop a maximum and minimum staffing level plan per type of apparatus • Continue to promote hygiene pracfor volunteer companies. tices and cleaning of works spaces. • Limit the number of members • Increase the frequency of wiping having patient contact to essendown door handles and all surfaces tial personnel only. at the station and in the apparatus. The virus can live on a surface for • Ensure personnel know up to three days. Make sure your when and how to don the EVT mechanics are aware of the appropriate PPE. Ensure supneed to clean all apparatus. plies of PPE are available and create a reuse protocol for N95 • Ensure that there is a plan if masks based on CDC recompersonnel test positive for mendations to manage limited COVID-19, i.e., a plan for comsupplies. munication and potential coverage during the quarantine period. • Have your communications center implement a flu/COVID-19 • Cease the use of humidifiers in screening process on calls. This stations/bunk rooms. information can be sent to responders • With all the disaster declarations, work while en route to the call so they can don with budget/procurement personnel to track all their PPE prior to making patient contact. purchases such as PPE for possible reimbursement. • When personnel respond to emergencies, have • Work to have “one voice” sending information to the them slow down and assess the scene before entering. Sometimes the department. All formal messages/direction on COVID-19 should come unknowns can be patients with flu-like symptoms. This will allow from one person. This way it avoids duplication and possibly contradicthem to stop and don PPE prior to entering the building. tive information. Reference of information should be from a reputable • A mask should be placed on patients you are concerned about and consistent source, i.e., CDC. potentially having the illness. • If your organization hasn’t set up an IMT for this situation, recom• Limit personnel entering the hospital at time of transfer of care mend one be established. If one is set up, make sure you have an and other needs to visit the hospital. HSO/ISO representative on it. • Allow units to temporarily go out of service to clean their unit, uniform and shower if they run a patient with flu/COVID-19 signs and symptoms. Ensure an exposure form has been completed for tracking purposes.
FireNews.com
Spencer Blaze Goes to 5 Alarms
Firefighters in Spencer (MA) battled a five-alarm blaze recently on Sherry Lane. Multiple area agencies provided mutual aid assistance. - Fire News photo by Tony Fitzherbertt
Bridgeport Truck Fire Extends
Shortly before midnight on February 1, 2020, Bridgeport dispatched Engine 7, Ladder 11 and Battalion 1 for a car fire in the Black Rock section of the city. Upon arrival, Engine 7 found a pickup truck with heavy fire coming from the front hood. The fire had quickly extended to the residence on Ferris Street. - Fire News photo by Chris Clarke
Fire News, May 2020, Page 7
Page 8, Fire News, May 2020
Fitchburg House Fire
FireNews.com
Firefighters battled a house in fire Fitchburg (MA) on March 16, 2020. - Fire News photos by Scott LaPrade and David Bryce
Busy Day Starts with a Fire in Vacant Providence House March 22, 2020 turned out to be a very busy day for Providence (RI) firefighters. The first of three fires broke out in a vacant house on Friendship Street. The first still box went out just before noon. Engine 3 reported fire showing from the basement and extending upwards. Inside they found the fire had extended to all floors of the house and a second alarm was transmitted. Numerous lines were stretched and operated and the heavy fire was knocked down. Extensive overhaul was required to expose the remaining pockets of fire. No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire was under investigation. - Fire News photo by Tom Carmody
New Britain 3-Alarmer
On March 29, 2020, New Britain (CT) firefighters responded to Vine Street for 2-1/2 story wood frame converted to commercial. On arrival, a third alarm was called and an exterior attack ensued.
Firefighters remained on the scene for several hours while mutual aid companies covered the city. - Fire News photos by Jim Peruta and Nick Peruta
FireNews.com
Fire News, May 2020, Page 9
Page 10, Fire News, May 2020
FireNews.com
Waterbury Apartment Fire
On February 21, 2020, Waterbury (CT) firefighters responded to East Main and Wall Streets for a fire in a vacant three-story apartment building on the second and third floors with a homeless shelter on the first floor. The fire spread quickly and crews were forced
to go to a defensive attack. - Fire News photos by Rick Kulmann, FireGroundImages.com, Kevin Czarzasty and Glenn Duda
FireNews.com
Fire News, May 2020, Page 11
Pawtucket Multi-Alarm Mill Fire
On the morning of March 14, 2020, at approximately 0303, Pawtucket (RI) Fire Alarm dispatched Box 219 for a fire on Rand Street. Engines 2, 5 and 1; Ladder 1; and Battalion 4 responded. Engine 2 arrived and reported heavy fire showing from a 200- x 800-foot mill building in a nine-building complex. Ladder 1 arrived and struck a third alarm followed by a fourth. Battalion 4 arrived and advised dispatch to notify Metro Control they would be going to extra alarms. This brought in mutual aid from Providence, Kent, Bristol and Washington counties as well as mutual aid companies from neighboring Massachusetts to the scene and for station coverage. Roughly 300 firefighters on 44 engines and 24 ladders responded. Crews would remain on scene for three days wetting down hot spots. The RI State Fire Marshal’s Office was investigating. - Fire News photos by Chris Palmer, Paul Shea, Kern LaBelle and Tom Carmody
Page 12, Fire News, May 2020
FireNews.com
South Boston Duplex 4-Alarm
7 Injured, Left Homeless in Springfield Blaze
On February 5, 2020, Boston crews responded for a four-alarm fire in South Boston. On arrival of Ladder 18 heavy fire was showing from the left side of a duplex. A few injuries were reported and animals were rescued by firefighters from the adjoining buildings. - Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade
Springfield (MA) firefighters battled a structure fire on February 5, 2020, just after 0600 on Water Street in the Indian Orchard section of the city. Crews arrived to heavy fire and smoke showing. Seven people were transported to the hospital with smoke inhalation. The house was a total loss. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
Fatal Fire in Oxford
On February 27, 2020, Oxford (MA) firefighters responded to a structure fire in an unattached garage on Sacarrappa Road. Crews made an aggressive attack and one victim was later located inside
the garage. The cause of the fire was under investigation. - Fire News photos by Paul Shea and Bud Harris
Higganum Chimney Fire
Somerville 2-Alarmer
Haddam (CT) Volunteer Fire Company and Killingworth (CT) Volunteer Fire Company responded to a chimney fire at 1720 on February 4, 2020, on Hidden Lake Road in Higganum. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy smoke billowing from an attic window and residents evacuated. Crews removed all burning debris from a wood boiler, located in the basement and investigated the chimney for blockage. After all burning material was removed, firefighters vented the home and checked for hot spots. They also metered the home for carbon monoxide levels. - Fire News photo by Olivia Drake
Crews on scene of a two-alarm fire on Merriam Street in Somerville (MA) on March 9, 2020. - Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan
FireNews.com
Fire News, May 2020, Page 13
Yantic Mixed-Use 2-Alarm Just after midnight, Yantic (CT) Fire was dispatched to Clinton Avenue for a structure fire. Police arrived and reported heavy smoke from the second floor of a barnconverted into a engine repair company. Car 38 arrived and transmitted a second alarm, an occupant out of the building, and fire showing in the rear. First due Engine 32, encountered a heavily involved second-floor living space. Engine 33, laid about 200 feet of five-inch line from a hydrant, while Taftville Tower 25 took the front of the building for ventilation. Two lines were stretched to the second floor and a third to the rear. The fire was confined to the second floor. Mutual aid came from East Great Plains, Taftville, City of Norwich and Mohegan Tribe. Bozrah, Occum and Laurel Hill covered. - Fire News photo by Robert Ladd, CFPA
33 Displaced in Central Falls 4-Alarm A four-alarm fire broke out in a Central Falls (RI) multi-unit apartment complex on Sumner Street on February 23, 2020. The fire quickly extended up into the cockloft of the three-story building. Thirty-three residents were displaced. - Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
Page 14, Fire News, May 2020
Norwich Home Destroyed
City of Norwich (CT) firefighters were alerted to a fire on the porch of a large single-family residence on Lorenzo Street. Crews arrived to heavy fire throughout the 2-1/2 story building. A second alarm was struck for additional resources from Taftville and East Great Plains, while Yantic, Laurel Hill and Occum covered Norwich. The city’s Engine 2, along with Taftville Engine 21, grabbed their own hydrants and with two five-inch supply lines fed the numerous large-caliber handlines used to bring the welladvanced blaze under control in about an hour. The occupants lost everything in the blaze, but were not injured. The Norwich FMO is investigating. - Fire News photo by Joe Shefer
Winchendon 3-Alarmer
FireNews.com
Five Alarms for Hanover Fire Just before 1330 hours on January 24, 2020, the Hanover (MA) F i r e Department responded to a structure fire on Winter Street. Companies arrived to heavy smoke and fire showing from the side of a singlestory 100- x 120-foot wooden warehouse with exposure concerns. Several propane tanks outside the building were involved and crews focused their efforts on cooling the tanks. The fire rapidly spread throughout the building and to the exposures. Low water pressure and frozen hydrants made the situation worse. Incoming engines unloaded several thousand feet of four-inch supply line to access additional hydrants. Mutual aid to the scene came from Rockland, Hanson, Marshfield, Norwell, Whitman, Pembroke, East Bridgewater, Abington, Hingham, Halifax, Weymouth Engine-5 and Marshfield. Brockton and Scituate covered Hanover. Also responding were the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection, Pilgrim Propane, Providence Canteen, American Red Cross, and Salvation Army. No firefighters were injured and crews did not clear the scene until nearly 24-hours after the initial alarm. - Fire News photo by Pat Travers
Family Displaced by Cranston Fire
Firefighters battled a three-alarm house fire in Winchendon (MA) on March 10, 2020. Crews arrived to heavy fire showing and immediately struck a second alarm. Mutual aid was brought in from multiple agencies. One cat was rescued from the fire, and no other injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by David Bryce
West Haven Roof Fire
On March 9, 2020, a neighbor spotted smoke and fire from the roof of his neighbor’s dwelling on Tetlow Street in West Haven (CT). Firefighters arrived to fire showing from the roof. Truck 1 laddered the roof and found a fire in the ridgeline near the solar panels. One line was stretched, but not put in use due to electrical concerns. A dry chem extinguisher was able to knockdown the fire. - Fire News photo by Glenn Duda, CFPA
On March 22, 2020, the Cranston (RI) Fire Department dispatched companies to Byron Street for a bedroom fire. When Engine 3 got inside, they found a heavy smoke condition on the second floor. A line was stretched but due to hoarding conditions, companies had a hard time finding the main body of fire. The roof was opened and as the smoke began to lift, the fire was located and extinguished. - Fire News photo by Tom Carmody
Weymouth Deals with Hydrant Issues On January 27, 2020, Weymouth (MA) Fire was dispatched for a structure fire on Commercial Street. Engine 1 arrived to heavy fire on the A side of a private residence. A ladder pipe and defensive operation were ordered due to the severity of the flames and a dead hydrant near the scene. Crews attempted to open up the roof but were ordered off when it was discovered it was compromised. The fire was fought defensively until conditions improved for an interior attack. - Fire News photo by Sean Fesko
FireNews.com
Fire News, May 2020, Page 15
Heavy Fire on Arrival in Greenwich
Just before 1000 on March 19, 2020, Greenwich (CT) firefighters were dispatched to Lower Cross Road for a dwelling fire. On arrival, crews were faced with heavy fire conditions throughout much of a single-story dwelling. Firefighters made a strong push into the dwelling but the well-advanced fire forced crews to transition into a defensive attack. A tower ladder was put into operation as firefighters worked handlines. Water pressure was also an issue during the fire. Tankers were brought in to help shuttle water and a fill site was established. Crews set up a collapse zone when parts of the dwelling started to come down. The fire was knocked down around 90 minutes later. - Fire News photos by PuckStopperPhotography.com and Dave Kempter
1 FF Injured in New Haven Fire At approximately 1920 on February 3, 2020, the New Haven (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to Colby Court for a structure fire. First companies found heavy fire in the basement extending to the first floor. All residents made their way to safety before fire crews’ arrival. Due to many renovations in the structure, firefighters had a hard time stopping fire traveling through void spaces. One firefighter was injured and transported to Yale New Haven Hospital. - Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com
Quick Stop in Shrewsbury On February 8, 2020, Shrewsbury (MA) firefighters battled a house fire on Manor Road. Crews arrived to find heavy fire showing. Crews made an aggressive attack and quickly knocked down the fire. No injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by Paul Shea
Page 18, Fire News, May 2020
FireNews.com
Worcester 3-Alarmer
Worcester (MA) firefighters battled a three-alarm fire on Westminster Street on February 24, 2020. Companies had heavy fire showing from the rear of the building on arrival. Crews made an aggressive attack initially, but due to conditions, were forced to go defensive. No injuries were reported, and the cause of the fire was under investigation. - Fire News photos by Paul Shea and David Bryce
Nashua 2-Alarmer
On February 8, 2020, Nashua (NH) firefighters fought a two-alarm fire on Arlington Street. - Fire News photo by Mike LaPrade
All Searches Negative in Carver
Carver (MA) Fire’s companies 1, 2 and 3 responded to a house fire on North Main Street. On arrival, heavy fire was reported from a 1-½ story home with one person self-evacuated and in distress, and reporting up to five more occupants trapped. Chief officers and arriving engine companies quickly went into a rescue mode, knocking down the main fire, while conducting a primary search of the residence. As additional engine companies arrived, secondary searches were conducted of the living area in the basement and a recheck of the first floor with negative results. - Fire News photo by Tyler Reardon
Good Stop in Danvers Captain Jamie Shafner directs firefighters at a twoalarm fire in Danvers (MA) on March 1, 2020, at the former Ideal Baby Shoe Factory on Locust Street. The large three-story, wood frame, irregular-shaped building was in the process of being renovated into storefronts and housing. First-due companies made an aggressive interior attack, and did an excellent job containing the fire. No injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by Glenn S. Preston
Canaan 2-Alarmer
The Canaan (CT) Fire Company struck two alarms in the early hours of February 14, 2020. Crews from Canaan, Norfolk and Sheffield (MA) responded, with Lakeville Hose Company providing an RIT crew. All occupants were accounted for and evaluated by EMS. The cause of the fire was under investigation by officials. - Fire News photo by Edward Harvey
FireNews.com
Fire News, May 2020, Page 19
Cover Story
Millville 3-Alarm Totals House
A fast moving three-alarm fire destroyed a large two-story colonial residence on Thayer Street in Millville (MA) on March 5, 2020. Companies arrived to find heavy smoke showing from all four sides of the building along with heavy fire from the Charlie side. Firefighters also requested a tanker shuttle as this section of town
was not serviced by hydrants. The dwelling also had solar panels on the roof, hampering the efforts of the ladder pipes. The cause and origin was pinned to a clothes dryer; the building was considered a total loss. - Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
Page 20, Fire News, May 2020
FireNews.com
Numerous Fires Keep Hartford FFs Busy 1 Fatality, 3 FFs Injured in Hartford Blaze
- Fire News photos by Patrick Dooley and Jim Peruta
Hartford Residential Fire
Hartford Structure Fire Bombed
- Fire News photos by Nick Peruta and Scott LaPrade
- Fire News photo by Jim Peruta
Southington Dwelling Fire
Just before 2300 on March 3, 2020, Southington (CT) firefighters half the dwelling. One victim was found with burns and taken to an were sent to Sun Valley Drive for a dwelling fire. On arrival, crews area hospital. found heavy fire coming from the attached garage and rapidly - Fire News photos by spreading across the home pushed by high winds. Crews made an PuckStopperPhotography.com and Glenn Duda aggressive attack on the home and managed to hold the fire to only
FireNews.com
Fire News, May 2020, Page 21
Springfield Truck Overturn On March 19, 2020, Springfield (MA) units were dispatched to a overturned tractor trailer at the Route 91 south and the South End Bridge interchange. Luckily there were no injuries, just a minor fuel spill. The highway was closed for about 90 minutes due to the incident. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
Fall River Rollover On February 6, 2020, Fall River (MA) Engine 4 responded to a single-vehicle rollover on Stafford Road. The lone occupant selfextricated himself as units arrived. - Fire News photo by Ken Leger
Page 22, Fire News, May 2020
FireNews.com
Tractor Trailer Rollover on I-95
Car Crashes into Pharmacy in Brockton
On February 26, 2020, shortly after 0600, a tractor trailer failed to negotiate a curve near Exit 43 in West Haven (CT) . The truck rode approximately 300 feet of guardrail before leaving the highway and rolling over the embankment. The truck was hauling milk and the tractor was destroyed. The driver had minor injuries. - Fire News photo by Glenn Duda, CFPA
Around 1120 on February 4, 2020, the Brockton (MA) Fire Department responded to the CVS Pharmacy on Centre Street for a vehicle into the building. Ladder-4 arrived to find a single vehicle into the building. Brewster Ambulance CA-8 transported one victim to the Brockton Hospital with unknown injuries. - Fire News photo by Pat Travers
Full Rollover MVA in Charlton
Arlington MVA
On the evening of March 7, 2020, Charlton (MA) Fire and Police responded to an MVA on Route 20 at the Quarter Keg Restaurant. An SUV rolled over back onto its wheels. The driver had to be extricated and was transported by CFD ambulance to UMass Hospital. - Fire News photo by Bud Harris
Firefighters responded to an MVA with overturn at Park Avenue and Massachusetts Avenue in Arlington (MA), on February 23, 2020. One person was transported to the hospital by Arlington Fire Department Rescue. - Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan
Carver 4-Car Injures 10
Double MVA with Entrapment
On March 19, 2020, Carver (MA) units were dispatched to an MVA/MCI on Route 58. Units arrived to find a four-car crash, and evaluated 10 patients. Mutual aid was brought in from Plymouth, Wareham, Plympton and Kingston. Four patients were transported by ground to Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital Plymouth for their injuries. - Fire News photo by John Sjostedt
On March 3, 2020, around 0715 Bozrah (CT) and East Great Plain fire departments were dispatched to Salem Turnpike at Noble Hill Road for a reported rollover. Crews arrived to find two cars with heavy damage, a double entrapment and two occupants severely injured. The extrication took about 20 minutes to remove both occupants from both vehicles. They were transported to Backus Hospital. - Fire News photo by Robert Ladd, CFPA
FireNews.com
Housatonic River Rescue
At approximately 1030 on January 20, 2020, the Derby (CT) Fire Department responded to the Housatonic River for a person in the water under the railroad bridge. When the fireboat arrived, they found a man sitting on the rocks at the base of one of the pillars of the bridge. Two rescuers donned coldwater suits, packaged the victim and loaded him on the boat. It was reported that the man had fallen from the bridge into the frigid water the night before and swam to the base of the bridge. He reportedly had a leg injury and was transported to Yale New Haven Hospital. - Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com
Cambridge Water Rescue
Cambridge (MA) firefighters responded to the Charles River on Memorial Drive for a water rescue on March 13, 2020. - Fire News photo by Paul Shea
Fire News, May 2020, Page 23
Plane Crash In Danvers
On March 12, 2020, a small aircraft was taking off from the west (Danvers, MA) side of the Beverly (MA) Municipal Airport. The plane went off of the runway and landed in a tree in the backyard of a nearby home on Burley Street in Danvers. Danvers’ crews were assisted by Middleton, Beverly and Wenham. Minor injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by Glenn S. Preston
2 Rescued from Fall Through Ice On February 23, 2020, Sturbridge (MA) Fire and Police received multiple calls for two men through the ice. They immediately called for mutual aid from Charlton for both an ambulance and the rescue. Upon arrival they found one man who had been removed by a bystander using a picnic table. Firefighters removed the second victim with a Rescue Alive Sled. Both men were transported to the hospital. - Fire News photo by Bud Harris
Through the Ice in Spencer
Ice Rescue Training in Springfield
On January 29, 2020, firefighters in Springfield (MA) gathered for ice rescue training at Water Shop Pond across from Springfield College. Members from Truck 2, Engine 8, and Rescue Squad took part in the drill. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
On February 23, 2020, Spencer (MA) Fire and Police received a call for two men through the ice on Brook Pond Road. North Brookfield Fire’s hovercraft and the District 7 Dive Team were requested. One man was able to free himself from the lake while the other was able to get out of the water and up on some ice where he was safely brought back to shore by firefighters. Both men refused transport to the hospital. - Fire News photo by Bud Harris
Page 24, Fire News, May 2020
FireNews.com
Up Close & Personal
A Providence (RI) firefighter from Ladder 2 at a recent structure fire. - Fire News photo by Tom Carmody
Whitman (MA) Firefighters Pat Travers, Jerry Thompson, Rich MacKinnon, Brian Trefry and Scott Figgins participated in this year’s B-Fit Challenge at the TD Garden in Boston on January 26, 2020. - Fire News photo by Pat Travers
Bridgeport (CT) Fire Department Ladder 5 crew after an all-hands fire on March 16, 2020. - Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com
Southbridge (MA) Firefighters participated in the B-Fit Challenge this year. - Fire News photo by Bud Harris
Hartford (CT) Fire News Correspondents Jim and Nick Peruta working a fire scene March 14, 2020. - Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade The crew of Worcester (MA) Rescue 1, Group 3 after a recent fire on East Central Street. (Left to right): Firefighters Comeau, Salmon, Breaux, Andrews, Blanchard, Captain Laino, and Firefighter Castillo. - Fire News photo by Paul Shea
Westborough (MA) Fire Chief Patrick Purcell alongside District 3 HazMat Tech Mark Cady at a recent alarm. - Fire News photo by Paul Shea Hartford firefighters on scene of a recent structure fire. - Fire News photo by Nick Peruta
FireNews.com
Fire News, May 2020, Page 25
Up Close & Personal (Left to right): Captains Joseph Peltier and Joseph Fellows, Lieutenant EMS officer Michael Evaul, and Fire News photographer Scott LaPrade in Worcester. - Fire News photo courtesy of Scott LaPrade
Lincoln (RI) Engine 5 Firefighter Greg Jilson removes a cat from a recent structure fire. - Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
Stamford Deputy Chief Tripodi looks on as his crews work a third-alarm apartment building fire on Broad Street in Stamford (CT) on March 2, 2020. - Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com
A Keene (NH) Fire Chief assists a member whose SCBA is caught on a wire as he exits a window at a three alarm fire in Middleborough (NH). - Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
Springfield (MA) firefighters, but also father and son, Tom and Kevin Morrow. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
Orange Swears In 2020 Officers, Decorates Firefighters
With friends, families and officials from area departments looking on, officers of the Orange (CT) Volunteer Fire Department were sworn in by First Selectman James Zeoli. Zeoli also administered the oath of office to the town’s new fire marshal, James Vincent (above, right). Fire officers sworn in were: Vaughan Dumas, Fire Chief; Charles Sherwood, Deputy Fire Chief; Dan Cole, Assistant Fire Chief; Eric Auscavitch, Assistant Fire Chief; Joe Duplinsky, Captain; David Tufano, Captain; Dan Abrams, Lieutenant;
John Gagel, Lieutenant; Leo Moran, Executive Board Representative; Charles William Laudenslager, Executive Board Representative; Peter Daniels, Recording Secretary; Lisa Kaplan, Corresponding Secretary; Burt Gallant, Treasurer; and Art Williams, Assistant Treasurer. John Gagel, a third-generation Orange firefighter, received his grandfather’s lieutenant’s badge. - Fire News photos by Doug Fenichel
Page 26, Fire News, May 2020
FireNews.com
Haddam Learning the Ropes Appreciation Banquet
Training
OJT
Captain Robert Smith reviews the accountability board on Car 30, the shift commander vehicle, with probationary Dispatcher Brendan Gray. New dispatchers ride along with the fire department to learn operations and procedures during their probation and continuing education. - Fire News photo by Shaun Shattuck
Carver Trains
Carver (MA) Fire Company 3 members took time to train on the pump panel and operations of the engine. - Fire News photo by Tyler Reardon
Haddam (CT) Volunteer Fire Company (HVFC) hosted its annual Firefighters’ Appreciation Banquet on February 1, 2020 in Haddam. The annual banquet brought together members, town officials, firefighters from neighboring towns, and guests for an evening of camaraderie, dinner, awards and raffle prizes, many of which were donated by local businesses. HVFC Chief Sam Baber credited members for responding to 555 calls for emergency services in 2019. Haddam’s total response time totaled 2,700 man hours. Members also spent 3,070 man hours training. “Know that each and every one of you in this room plays an integral role in providing support to the Haddam community,” Baber said. “Whether you’re a top responding firefighter, EMT, or even our company treasurer, you are crucial to this organization.” Chief Baber awarded the company’s top five responders with a framed certificate. They include: Captain Richard Zanelli with 268; Deputy Chief Peter Brown with 188; Firefighter Ronald Annino with 155; Firefighter Charlie Rourke with 150; and EMT Chuck Kowal with 147. He also honored Firefighters Mike Miller and Bob Kadrle with Special Recognition Awards for their efforts completing the Haddam Fire Training Facility, which is now fully operational, and Firefighter and Radio Engineer Scott Larson for his efforts updating the company’s radio system. Chief Baber recognized individuals who received Years of Service pins in 2019. They include: Firefighter Chet Crocco, 5 years; EMT Rose Eberl, 10 years; Lieutenant Scott Kuchyt, 40 years; and Firefighter Bob Kadrle, 50 years. Prior to a blessing by HVFC Chaplain Seth Nuzum, Chief Baber offered appreciation to the member's families. “Between meetings, training, drills, committees and calls, we realize the fire company is a huge commitment and that it can have an impact on personal and family time,” he said. “So thank you to the spouses and significant others for being so understanding. Without your support, we couldn’t do our job as well as we do.” - Fire News photos by Olivia Drake
FireNews.com
Fire News, May 2020, Page 27
Boston Garden Fundraiser
On January 26, 2020, numerous public safety teams from all over the area gathered at the Boston Garden to raise money for local first responder charities. Firefighters, EMTs, police officers, military, and FBI agents all ran the course. Worcester Local 1009 raised the most money of all the fire departments at just over $50,000. - Fire News photo by Bud Harris
Historic Hartford Station for Sale On January 17, 2020, Hartford (CT) Tac 1 and District 1 members packed up the last of the belongings and moved out of the former Pearl Street Fire Headquarters. Tac 1 Joined Engine 11 and Ladder 5 on Sisson Avenue and District 1 moved in with Engine 10 on Wethersfield Avenue. This marks the closing of the historic station and the possibility of the station going up for sale. - Fire News photo by Jim Peruta
Menard’s Name Added to Worcester Memorial
Pictured above is a memorial located at 1020 Main Street in Worcester (MA) and is dedicated to everyone in Worcester who passed away at a fire. The memorial is maintained by the Main South Alliance for Public Safety. It was erected after a fatal fire in 1990 in which a Florence Street family perished. The names of fire victims go back to
1986. The names of Worcester firefighters are also on this memorial. Every year on March 7 a service is held. All names are read and new names to be added are announced. This year Jason Menard’s name will be added along with his brothers who have passed before him. - Fire News photos by Paul Shea
Page 28, Fire News, May 2020
FireNews.com
Southeastern CT Gets New Training Center Fire departments in the southeastern part of Connecticut now have access to up-to-date training facilities with the completion and opening of the new Eastern Connecticut Fire Training School. Director William Eyberse recently hosted the New London County Fire Chiefs Association monthly meeting and explained the long journey it took to acquire the state provided funding, engineering, bidding and finally construction of the former severely inadequate and antiquated facility. The new campus boasts a brand new building with classrooms, lecture hall, staff offices, meeting rooms, and a fully equipped cafeteria. The lecture hall has all current electronics for student interaction with nationwide webinars and training programs. The campus also features an outdoor training gazebo, a fully functional training sprinkler system, a six-story tower, a multi-level burn building, and a fully equipped fire station with showers, locker room, SCBA service shop, and all up-to-date station amenities. There are also numerous firefighting props, and ample parking around the nicely landscaped campus. An opening ceremony, with all the bells and whistles that go along with it, will be held on April 26, 2020. - Fire News photo by Joe Shefer
District Chief Greco Calls It a Career Recently, District Chief Mike Greco retired after working 32 years for the Springfield (MA) Fire Department. Chief Greco’s years of dedicated service are greatly appreciated and he will be missed by the department and the community. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
Arlington Geometry Arlington (MA) Fire Headquarters was built on a triangle lot in the shape of an octagon with six apparatus bays, three on Massachusetts Avenue and three on Broadway. The station was occupied in September, 1925. It underwent a year-long renovation beginning in 2014 and reopened in 2016. - Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan
Orange Firefighters, Employees Mourn Loss of Fire Marshal Tim Smith
Volunteer firefighters and town employees in Orange (CT) were reeling from the loss of long-time Fire Marshal Tim Smith, who died on January 19, 2020, after investigating a fire in a local home. Cheif Vaughan Dumas said Smith was called to a structure fire on Tyler City Road around 1320 to determine the cause and origin of the fire. He had completed that task and was returning home when he was involved in a motor vehicle accident in Woodbridge. Smith was a member of the Orange Volunteer Fire Department for more than 30 years. He became a town employee in 1986 as a Deputy Fire Marshal and
rose to the Fire Marshal’s post in April 1989. In addition to being a certified state fire marshal, Smith was a fire service instructor for the Valley Regional Fire School. He received an award from the International Association of Arson Investigators in 2015 for outstanding accomplishment in relation to an investigation of an arson fire on Golf Road. Smith was known as a progressive and innovative fire official. He inaugurated the use of drones to investigate fires. He also implemented the use special software to track fires in town and report them to the state. His family has requested privacy as they mourn their loss, said Zeoli. - Submitted by Doug Fenichel
Winners Announced in High School YouTube™ Burn Awareness Video Contest Massachusetts State Fire Marshal Peter J. Ostroskey announced the winners of the 12th annual statewide YouTube Burn Awareness Video Contest. This award ceremony was one of the events cancelled in order to reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus based on Governor Baker’s guidance to Executive Branch employees. Winning Videos. This is the twelfth year of the contest and 16 teams from six high schools in AyerShirley, Boston, Masconomet Regional, Melrose, Millis, and Nauset Regional submitted entries. While all of the videos were creative and interesting, the first-place winning team was from Nauset Regional High School for their video Little Red; the secondplace winning team was from Masconomet Regional High School for their video Ghostly Fire; and the third place winners were from Melrose High School for their video One Morning. The winning videos can be seen on the Department of Fire Services’ YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/DFSOSFM. Honorable Mentions went to teams from Boston Latin Academy and Melrose High School.
Gerard Medua of the Massachusetts Property Insurance Underwriting Association, also known as the FAIR Plan, said, “Supporting this contest fits with our mission of reducing fires in the Commonwealth and the damage they do to life, property and communities.” The FAIR Plan presented the grand prize of a digital video camera to the winning team’s school. “As both a parent and a fire prevention officer, I have been appalled at how fire and burns have been portrayed in some YouTube videos. [These videos] underscore the continued need for this contest as a way to show the truth about burns and fire,” said Winchester Fire Chief Rick Tustin, president of MaSAFE. MaSAFE presented gift certificates from Best Buy to the winning teams. The first place team shared $200 in gifts cards; the second place team, $100 in gift cards, and the third place team shared $50. Needham Chief Dennis Condon, president of the Fire Chiefs’ Association of Massachusetts, said, “I am impressed with these amazing videos, what the students have learned and how they were able to communicate that in video.” - Submitted by Jennifer Mieth
Swanzey Names New Fire Chief The Town of Swanzey (NH) has named its newest Chief of Department. William F. Gould will be assuming the role from interim-Chief Eric Mattson. Gould, of Hamden (CT), topped the position after running against 10 others. Gould had to endure the selection process that included an interview panel with Swanzey residents and fire officials. Chief Gould worked for the last 30 years with the New Haven (CT) Fire Department until he retired in 2018. Best of luck to him and his latest endeavor. - Submitted by Scott LaPrade
FireNews.com
Fire News, May 2020, Page 29
Leominster’s Gaudet Retires
Leominster (MA) Firefighter Robert Gaudet hangs up his hat and cuts his cake after 32 years of service to the Leominster as the Engine 3 Chauffeur. - Fire News photos by Scott LaPrade
Stamford Recruit Class 19-01 Graduation
On February 2, 2020, the Stamford (CT) Fire Department held a graduation ceremony for recruit class 19-01 at the Stamford Government Center. - Fire News photos by PuckStopperPhotography.com
Page 30, Fire News, May 2020
FireNews.com
FireNews.com
Fire News, May 2020, Page 31
37 Administrative and Executive Fire Officers Graduate from Management Training Program
On January 31, 2020, 37 fire service leaders from across Massachusetts graduated from the 27th offering of the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy’s Chief Fire Officer Management Training Program. This 14-week program was developed in accordance with NFPA Standards for senior fire officers. It is delivered jointly by the Edward J. Collins Jr. Center for Public Management at the University of Massachusetts and the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy. It is a comprehensive course providing training in the non-fire suppression aspects of managing fire departments. State Fire Marshal Peter Ostroskey said, “These fire service leaders are committed to continually develop their management and leadership skills in order to provide the highest level of service to the communities they protect.” The 37 graduates serve the following fire departments: Agawam, Barre, Bridgewater, Brockton, Cambridge, Carlisle, Charlton, Chilmark, Dennis, Fall River, Foxborough, Hanson, Hatfield, Haverhill, Hudson, Ipswich, Lexington, Littleton, Lynn, Massport, Merrimac, Monson, Newton, Northbridge, Paxton, Shirley, Southbridge, Southwick, Springfield, Waltham, Watertown, Wellesley, West Bridgewater, Westfield, and Whitman.
The curriculum covers a spectrum of topics considered essential for effective public sector management. It includes human resource management, ethics, executive leadership and legal issues, governmental and organization structures, information management, customerfocused strategic planning, legal aspects, budgets and public finance, community awareness and labor relations. The Chief Fire Officer Management Training Program expects to help fire officers improve their ability to lead and manage personnel and the department, to provide skills to understand employees’ needs and problems, to promote personal productivity, to increase the capacity to manage both human and technical resources, and to increase interagency cooperation. Participants are required to write a formal applied research paper that identifies a current problem or challenge faced by their organization and proposes a viable solution. The officers must then present their proposal to a panel of municipal officials for their consideration. The Massachusetts Firefighting Academy, a division of the Department of Fire Services, offers this program, tuition-free. - Fire News photo by Jennifer Mieth
UPDATE ON INTERSCHUTZ AND INTERSCHUTZ USA The news changes almost daily as it relates to postponements and cancellations due to the outbreak and spread of COVID19. We would like to update you on how the virus is impacting both INTERSCHUTZ USA and INTERSCHUTZ (Hannover) below: INTERSCHUTZ (Hannover) – INTERSCHUTZ 2020, scheduled for June 15-20, 2020, has been postponed. INTERSCHUTZ (Hannover) will now take place June 14-19, 2021. INTERSCHUTZ USA – INTERSCHUTZ USA 2020, scheduled for October 13-17, with exhibits October 15-17, 2020 in Philadelphia is proceeding as scheduled. We want to assure our INTERSCHUTZ USA family that we are monitoring the situation. At this time the City of Philadelphia’s Department of Public Health, the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Philadelphia Convention Center have all increased their efforts taking precautions and creating awareness to warn against the potential spread of the virus. Please find a statement and additional preventative efforts as presented by the City of
Philadelphia, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau, Visit Philadelphia, the Philadelphia Convention Center, the Philadelphia International Airport and other industry partners. At this time, preventative measures are focused on the immediate future, and indications are that COVID-19 should not have any effect on the inaugural INTERSCHUTZ USA, October 13-17, 2020, at the Philadelphia Convention Center. Registration for the event continues to grow, as do exhibiting company commitments. Despite this bright outlook, we understand our nation’s fire, EMS and first responder professionals are on the front lines of this battle – as you are for every domestic challenge or catastrophe. This note is to announce that we are extending our Early Bird discounts on Attendee Registration and Exhibit Space pricing until June 15, 2020. We will reassess the situation at that time and will extend these if the situation warrants. If you have any questions, please contact
Vice-President Ed Nichols at enichols @interschutzusa.com or 773-796-4250. Continue doing the vital work you are already doing, keeping all of us safe as we navigate this challenge. We’ll be here – with your discounts still available – when you are done. Thank you and stay safe.
Page 32, Fire News, May 2020
FireNews.com