On May 7, 2024, New Britain (CT) companies responded to a four-story factory fire.
See story on page 6
1 Fatality from Major Manchester Apartment Fire
Manchester (NH) Fire, police, and AMR ambulance were dispatched to Village Circle Way for reports of a building fire.
See story on page 8
Fire Burns 6.5 Acres in Wesley
Alarge-scale fire on April 29, 2024, was handled by the Wesley (ME) Volunteer Fire Department.
See story on page 10
9 Displaced, at Springfield Blaze
Springfield (MA) firefighters arrived to heavy fire showing from the second floor of a large 2-1/2 story home.
See story on page 12
1
Medevac’d After I-93 MVA
Londonderry (NH) Fire, Derry Fire, and State Police responded to a single-vehicle MVAon Interstate 93.
See story on page 14
He’s Stuck Where?!?
On April 10, 2024, the Whitman (MA) Fire Department received a call reporting a child stuck in a chimney at a Harvard Street address.
See story on page 18
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page 30
Chelsea (MA) firefighters were dispatched to check for alarms on Revere Beach Parkway recently. Companies arrived to find heavy smoke showing from a commercial building. Companies made an aggressive interior attack but were pushed back by heavy fire conditions. Command struck a second alarm and eventually third, fourth and fifth alarms bringing multiple mutual aid companies to the scene and to cover. Multiple master streams and big lines were used to knock down the main body of fire. Companies remained on scene for several hours in a defensive operation.
- Fire News photos by Patrick Kerrigan and Glenn Preston
5 Alarms for Chelsea Commercial Fire
New Britain 3-Alarm Factory Fire
On May 7, 2024, New Britain (CT) companies could see a column of smoke as they turned out of quarters, prompting the battalion chief to transmit a second alarm priorto arrival. Companies reported a four-story factory with fire showing on several floors. Initially there were waterproblems, prompting a third alarm to be transmitted and bringing Hartford to the scene. The waterissues were corrected allowing three ladders to get a good knockdown on the heavy vol-
ume of fire. The fire became deep seated within the factory, causing it to spread to additional floors and wings. The fire took about three hours to bring undercontrol. Companies remained on scene throughout the night. No one was injured and the cause of the fire was being investigated.
- Fire
News photos by Glenn Duda, Allhandsworking and Patrick Dooley
Colchester2nd Alarm
On May 7, 2024, Colchester(CT) struck a second-alarm-plus for additional tankers fora fire in a WestchesterRoad building which spread to multiple vehicles and more.
- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
1 Fatality from MajorManchester Apartment Fire
Manchester(NH) Fire, police, and AMR ambulance were dispatched to Village Circle Way forseveral callers reporting a building fire. Engine 4, housed about a mile from the location, could see a glow in the sky as they approached the area. When Engine 4 arrived, they reported heavy fire on the balconies at the rearof the building. Two of the three firefighters assigned to the engine stretched a line while one firefighteroperated the pump. The two firefighters immediately reported several people trapped on the upperfloors of the three-story, large, apartment building. Additional crews arrived and began evacuating occupants of 28 apartments and attempting to locate the trapped people. One man was pulled from an area where there was heavy fire, suffering from extremely severe burns. AMR medics and firefighters immediately began CPR on the man and rushed him to a local hospital where he died. Arriving personnel used ground ladders to access the upperfloors while two laddertrucks were set up. As firefighters attempted the rescues, the hydrant feeding Engine 4 failed, requiring hoses to be run from alternative hydrants. Due to the size of the building and the numberof occupants, a second and a third alarm were requested, bringing almost 100 firefighters to the scene. Awoman was brought out of the building to AMR medics, who transported herto a local hospital. Several dogs and cats were rescued. The NH Fire Marshal’s Office was requested to the scene to assist ManchesterFire Investigators due to the serious injuries and scale of the fire.
- Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
Brockton House Fire Involved Carand Carport
Brockton (MA) firefighters responded to Norman Road at 0240 on April 21, 2024. Companies arrived to heavy fire showing from a single-story wood frame ranch which involved a carand carport. - Fire News photo by Dave Stewart, MassFirePics.Com
Seymour House Fire
At approximately 0730 on April 30, 2024, the Seymour(CT) Fire Department was dispatched to Laurel Lane fora house fire. First companies on scene found heavy fire showing from a two-story home on the first and second floors. Occupants made it out of the home safely, but there were reports of three cats still inside. Mutual aid companies were called from Oxford and othercities to set up a tankershuttle and provide manpower. The cause of the fire and status of the family’s pets were unknown.
- Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com
Pheasant Court Smoker
On the afternoon of April 13, 2024, a call came into dispatch reporting smoke coming from a basement on Pheasant Court (CT). Upon arrival, crews found significant smoke coming from the dwelling. The fire was located and extinguished. Neighboring condos were found to have a smoke condition and ventilated. A cat was removed from the condo and no injuries were reported. Thank you to the WindsorLocks Police Department, Windsor Locks Lions Ambulance, Warehouse Point Fire Department, and Bradley Int'l Airport Fire Department fortheirsupport.
- Fire News photo by Coral Ruggiero
13 Displaced by Bridgeport Blaze
At approximately 2200 on May 14, 2024, the Bridgeport (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to Jones Avenue fora house fire. First companies found heavy smoke showing from the rearof a 2-1/2 story occupied dwelling. Fire was found on the second floorextending up into the third. Several birds in cages were found and removed to the exterior. In all, 13 people were displaced. - Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com
Holland Structure Fire
On May, 14, 2024, the Holland (MA) Fire Department was dispatched to a reported structure fire on Long Hill Road. Asecond alarm was struck priorto arrival. First arriving units had smoke and fire showing from the B/C side of the dwelling.
- Fire News photo by Adam MacMillan
Fire Burns 6.5 Acres in Wesley
Alarge-scale fire on April 29, 2024, was handled by the Wesley (ME) VolunteerFire Department. Members responded to a semi-truck fire located in Township 30 along State Route 9 in rural Washington County. The first arriving unit (Wesley Engine 6) found the trailerfully engulfed in flames including its cargo of logs of tissue paper. The tractorhad been disconnected by the operator. Due to the nature of the material, additional resources were requested forwaterand personnel as the fire caught nearby woods on fire. Wesley Engine 1 and Engine 4 responded in addition to AlexanderEngine 1, Tanker1, Tanker2, Marshfield Engine 1, Baileyville Engine 2, and Princeton Tanker1. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office responded with two deputies and Maine Forestry Service responded with multiple rangers and a helicopterforwaterdrops. In total, 6.5 acres of dense woods were burned thanks to strong winds. It is believed the source of the fire was a stuck brake on the semi-trailer. An excavatorwas brought in to shred the paperforextinguishment. Wesley is charged with protecting the 49-square miles of the Town of Wesley plus 181-square miles of unorganized territories.
- Submitted by Dwayne Lee Philbrook NRP, IC
Waterbury 2-Alarm
Shirley Junkers Burning
Shirley (MA) firefighters were dispatched to Going Road fora fire on the early morning of April 25, 2024. Companies arrived to find multiple cars burning in the middle of a junkyard. Crews stretched multiple handlines and had the fire knocked down in a short amount of time. Afront-end loaderwas brought in to move some of the cars so that overhaul could be performed. Mutual aid came from Ayer, Devens and Lunenburg.
- Fire News photo by Patrick Kerrigan
On April 22, 2024, Waterbury (CT) firefighters responded to William Street fora report of a house fire. Upon arrival of Engine 2 and Truck 3, quartered just around the corner, they reported heavy fire on the top floorof a three-story multiple family dwelling and a second alarm was requested. All occupants were out of the structure. It took firefighters an hourto bring the fire undercontrol.
- Fire News photo by Rick Kulmann
Bristol No-Hydrants House Fire
On May 9, 2024, Bristol (CT) firefighters responded to Kory Lane for a report of a house fire. Crews arrived to heavy fire from a twostory dwelling. Asecond alarm was struck which brought in tankers from the Wolcott Fire Department due to there being no hydrants in the area. The fire was brought under control in a half hour.
- Fire News photo by Rick Kulmann
Nashua MultiDwelling Fire
Nashua (NH) firefighters responded to a building fire on Cross Street on April 18, 2024. Engine Company 1 arrived to smoke showing from a large two-story multiple dwelling. Companies stretched multiple handlines and made an aggressive interior attack and knocked down the fire on the second floor. Ladder2 ventilated the roof while Ladder1 conducted searches.
- Fire News photo by Patrick Kerrigan
9 Displaced, 2 Probies Get Their First at Springfield Blaze
Springfield (MA) firefighters were dispatched to Carew Street fora structure fire. Crews arrived to heavy fire showing from the second floorof a large 2-1/2 story wood framed home. Engine 7 immediately opened its deck gun and started hitting the heaviest fire. Truck 1 and Truck 4 got into position to attempt to open the roof, but solarpanels were nearest the heaviest fire. Crews advanced multiple lines into the building. Atruck repositioned its stick and was able to get a spot so crews could cut holes in the roof. The fire was knocked down within 30 minutes. Springfield Arson and Bomb were investigating the fire. Two brand new probies caught theirfirst fire at this location. Nine people were displaced.
Fall River Apartment Building Fire
On April 18, 2024, around 1930, Fall River(MA) firefighters responded to North Main Street, Unit 1 fora box alarm. On arrival, Engine 6 reported flames showing from the second floorof a multi-unit apartment building. Firefighters quickly knocked down the fire and started overhaul.
- Fire News photo by Ken Leger
- Fire News photo by John DeForest
Westford
2-Alarm
House Fire
Westford (MA) Fire Alarm received multiple calls fora house fire on Lawson Road on May 30, 2024. Companies arrived to find fire showing from the second floorand roof of a two-story woodframe dwelling. Command struck a second alarm, bringing in mutual aid. Companies made an aggressive interiorattack and had the fire knocked down in a short amount of time. Companies remained on scene overhauling and checking forextension.
- Fire News photo by Patrick Kerrigan
East Hartford House Fire
East Hartford (CT) fire crews arrived to find fire showing at the rearof a house on Wood Drive on May 8, 2024. Companies were able to knock down the fire in short-order.
- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
Arlington 2-Alarmer
On April 22, 2024, at about 1700, the Arlington (MA) Fire Department responded to Massachusetts Avenue fora building fire. Fire and smoke were showing from the second flooron arrival. Aworking fire and a second alarm were ordered, and an aggressive attack confined the fire to the area of origin.
- Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan
2-Alarmer
Avon (CT) fire crews arrived on Avonwood Road fora fire on April 21, 2024, at about 1840, and found heavy fire showing from the top floorof a three-story apartment building. Extensive mutual aid assisted at the scene forcoverage.
- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
1
Londonderry (NH) Fire, Derry Fire, and New Hampshire State Police responded to a single-vehicle MVAon Interstate 93 south just north of Exit 5. Apassengercarveered from the highspeed lane into the wood line on the right side of the highway and crashed into several trees. The vehicle was wedged between multiple trees with one occupant heavily entrapped. I-93 was shut down so that Boston MedFlight could land on the highway just south of the accident. Additional heavy rescue equipment came from Manchester. More than a dozen firefighters used multiple handtools and hydraulic tools to work on extricating the driver. The victim was placed in a waiting ambulance so that paramedics could stabilize him before he was loaded into the helicopter. Afterapproximately 30 minutes he was transferred to the Boston MedFlight helicopterand flown to a Boston hospital with life-threatening injuries.
- Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
RiverRd. Truck into Building in Shelton
At approximately 0940 on April 16, 2024, Shelton (CT) Fire, police, and EMS were dispatched to RiverRoad in the new Daybreak Ridge Condominiums fora truck into the building. First companies on scene found a full-size pickup had driven straight into the side of one of the condos deep enough to damage two of the units. Anothergarage was also damaged across the parking lot from the final position of the vehicle. The driverappeared to be unharmed. One firefighterwas transported to a local hospital afterreceiving a serious facial injury from one of the garage doors. The cause of the crash was unknown. - Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com
Several Charges in Carvs. Building MVA
Around 1030 on April 15, 2024, the Whitman (MA) Fire Department responded to an MVAon South Avenue. Engine 43, Ambulance 249 and Car3 responded to find a single-car MVAwith an SUVinto a building. Abox was struck formanpower, and the building inspectorwas requested. The sole occupant of the vehicle was transported to the South Shore Hospital with an additional paramedic on-board. No other injuries were reported. The police latercharged the driver, a 42-year-old man from East Wareham, with marked lanes violation, operating underthe influence of drugs, possession of a Class-Asubstance and negligent operation of a motorvehicle. - Fire News photo by Pat Travers
Carinto Building, Hits Gas Meters, Flees Scene
Manchester(NH) Fire, AMR and police responded to CedarStreet recently foran active gas leak caused by a vehicle hitting several gas meters, damaging the building and then fleeing the scene. Responders arrived to an active scene with a gas leak and the structural integrity of the building compromised. Evacuations began immediately as firefighters worked to shut down the gas. The vehicle fled the scene on what witnesses described as heavy damage and driving on rims. The license plate forthe vehicle was left behind in the crash and led investigators to the vehicle.
- Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
Auto vs. Bus MVAin Fall River
Just after2030 on April 18, 2024, emergency services responded to the intersection of Borden and Fourth streets in Fall River (MA) foran auto versus bus MVA. The first units on scene found a SERTAbus with multiple passengers complaining of injury as well as the occupants of the caralso injured.
- Fire News photo by Ken Leger
Chem Spill at North Andover School
On May 16, 2024, the Department of Fire Services’Hazmat Division supported the North Andover(MA) Fire Department at a local school aftercontractors punctured a tank holding lab chemicals. All students safely exited the school and entry teams were able to contain and remove all hazards.
- Submitted by Jake Wark
SkydiverAlmost Makes it to the Ground
Hollis (NH) firefighters were dispatched to the area of Runnells Bridge Road at the Pepperell (MA) line fora parachutist stuck in a tree about 60-feet up. Companies arrived and found a skydiver who had landed in a tree and was stuck but not injured. Command requested a Pepperell ambulance to the scene as a precaution and a local tree company was sent to the scene in case theirtree climberwas needed. Hollis TowerCompany 1 made it into the field and was able to set up along the tree line and rescue the sky diverand bring him to the ground without incident. Companies remained on scene assisting in getting the parachutist's gearout of the tree.
- Fire News photos by Patrick Kerrigan and Jeff Hastings
He’s Stuck Where?!?
Just after 1600 on April 10, 2024, the Whitman (MA) Fire Department received a call reporting a child stuck in a chimney at a Harvard Street address; Ladder 246, C 3 and Ambulance 249 responded. Companies arrived to find a child stuck feet first into a chimney on the top of a two-story wood framed dwelling. Abox was struck for manpower due to the complexity of the incident.
While the aerial was being put into place, firefighters raised ground and roof ladders to gain access to the child on the opposite side of the house. Firefighters met the child simultaneously at the chimney. Both firefighters were able to lift the child up and out of the chimney and put him on the tip of the aerial. Both firefighters then slowly brought the child down the ladder, eventually to the arms of his very anxious father.
The ambulance crew checked out the child, but transport was not required. The child was apparently home with his brother when he decided to climb out of a second-floor dormer window and onto the roof. He then scaled the steep pitched roof and hoisted himself up and into the chimney.
- Fire News photo by Pat Travers
Patient Medevac
in Fall River
On the afternoon of April 22, 2024, Boston Med-Flight touched down in John F. Kennedy Park in Fall River(MA) to transport a patient from St. Annes Hospital to Boston.
- Fire News photo by Ken Leger
80 Displaced by Randolph 3-Alarmer
Randolph (MA) Fire received a central station alarm and, while en route, got calls fora fire inside a Bridle Patch Circle building. The deputy chief arrived to light smoke showing from the front. As the DC did his 360, he found heavy overlapping fire in the rearand quickly struck the working fire and second alarm. Fire extended to the attic area and heavy fire conditions quickly took overthe attic space and went through the roof. The DC requested a third alarm and all companies were ordered to evacuate the building and go to an exterior attack with ladderpipes, deck gun and multiple exteriorlines. The fire was in a large threestory brick occupied apartment building that did not have a sprinklersystem. The fire traveled the length of the attic and roof areas. All residents were able to safely evacuate the building but one resident was transported with a minorinjury. The chief of operations requested an extra engine and ladderoverthe third alarm assignment to the scene. Randolph Fire flowed wateron this fire forover36 hours before the building was torn down due to several interiorcollapses of the floors. The apartment building had 30 units and left over80 people homeless.
- Fire News photo by Dave Stewart, MassFirePics.Com
High Angle Rescue Training in East Granby
East Granby (CT) firefighters drilled at the end of Tunxis Avenue on high-angle rescue of an injured hiker. Crews worked on team work, securing ropes, making sure harnesses were secure and most importantly safety at all times.
- Fire News photo by John DeForest
Live Fire Training forArlington
On May 21, 2024, Arlington (MA) firefighters participated in live fire training in the live fire training trailerfrom the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy, which was transported to Arlington.
- Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan
Simsbury Trains
Simsbury (CT) volunteerfire department drilled on April 15, 2024, at the Weatogue live burn building with Engine 2 and Rescue 14 from Bushy Hill Station. Crews went through three stations, rehab, fire attack and, search and rescue. Crews rotated with experienced firefighters and non-experienced ones to gain confidence and experience. Crews spent about 90 minutes taking part in this. The training night was underthe direction of Assistant Chief Kristin Kelley
- Fire News photo by John DeForest
RITTraining at Newton
Newton (MA) fire hosted National Rescue Consultants forRIT training.
- Submitted by Captain Phil McCully
Training
MMAState-of-the-Art Fire Training Building
Maine Maritime Academy (MMA) is excited to announce their state-of-the-art fire training building is now in use. Located on the Bucksport campus of MMA, the building has been utilized throughout the spring forlive fire training forMMAundergraduate students. Live fire training to support MMA’s CenterforProfessional MarinerDevelopment courses has also begun and will continue to be offered throughout the year. The multi -story building, designed by Fire Facilities, offers propane and class Afire training options. Gas fire props, created by Symtec, offersimulators forgalley, state-
room, engine and flange fires. Afull building smoke distribution system enhances fire training. Designed to also incorporate training forland-based firefighters, additional options forthe new building include ladder/roof/aerial training, search and rescue, rappelling, forcible entry, confined space, hydrant/ pump operations, as well as law enforcement training exercises. To learn more about MMAFire Training please contact Lisa Burton, Managerof Fire Training (lisa.burton@mma.edu) orvisit https://mainemaritime.edu/cpmd/. - Photos courtesy of Lisa Burton
Sophie Marie: Engine 5’s Comfort K-9
Aftertrying to comfort distraught young family members at medical and accident scenes, Fall River(MA) FirefighterPatrick Duddy thought there had to be a better way. FFDuddy approached management and proposed his idea. With his own money and time, he set about finding and training a comfort K-9 to respond with Engine 5 to emergency scenes in an attempt to bring a needed distraction at traumatic scenes. FF Duddy set up a pen in the Globe Station quarters of Engine 5 and incorporated a seat belt harness forthe dog in the truck so she can safely ride to the scene. Sophie Marie was introduced to the public on June 1, 2024, at an event at Christopher’s restaurant who sponsored a “Coffee with Sophie” event. FirefighterDuddy hopes Sophie can bring needed comfort to victims, especially the young people who may have just witnessed theirparent orguardian having a medical emergency. - Fire News photos by Ken Leger
Elliot Stanley Certified as NREMT-P
Cardiac Arrest
Save in North Branford
North Branford (CT) members, police officers and dispatchers who were involved in a cardiac arrest save in January 2024, were recognized by the North Branford Board of Fire Commissioners.
- Submitted by Anthony P. Esposito, Jr.
Arecognition ceremony held on May 13, 2024, in honorof Firefighter/EMTElliot Stanley being certified as a NREMT-Pfor the City of Rockland (ME). Stanley was joined by the rest of the department to honorhim and his dedication to his profession.
- Photo by Alan Athearn for Rockland Fire & EMS; submitted by Chris Whytock
Orange Firefighters Dash Up 34 Floors as
Part of Fundraiser
Ateam of Orange (CT) volunteer firefighters dashed up 34 floors recently and, although they were wearing full structural firefighting gear, there was no fire at the top of the stairs. Instead, there was hope for curing lung diseases. The eight firefighters took part in the April 6, 2024, Fight for Air fundraiser for the American Lung Association. The event took place at Connecticut’s fifth tallest building, Hartford 21, a 36-floor residential tower on Trumbull Street in Hartford.
For Capt. Eric Demeraski, who led the team, the relationship between firefighters and lung disease is a natural one. “As firefighters, lung disease is an occupational hazard we face because of the nasty smoke we deal with,” he said. Firefighters must use cylinders of compressed air worn on their backs to work in the poisonous atmosphere of a fire. “Being able to take a deep breath and to conserve your air is incredibly important. Your air bottle is your lifeline in a fire. The better you can control your breathing and conserve your air, the better off you are.”
In addition to Demeraski, the team was made up of Captain Dan Abrams, Firefighters Jesse Bartha, Jen Botsko, Noah Clark, Scott Horowitz, Walter Joseph and Cole Tennant. As active firefighters, the group was already in good physical condition.
All eight firefighters finished. And as a
team, they raised $3,241.49 for the American Lung Association. Supporters can increase that amount by donating to the American Lung Association through the Orange firefighters by clicking on http://action.lung.org/goto/orangevfd.
- Submitted by Doug Fenichel
32 Local Firefighters Graduate from Fire Academy
State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine and Massachusetts Firefighting Academy Director Eric S. Littmann announced the graduation of 32 recruits from the Call/Volunteer Recruit Firefighter Training Program Class 111. The graduates received certificates of completion at a ceremony held at Bridgewater State University.
The graduating firefighters of Call/Volunteer Recruit Class 111 represent the fire departments of Acushnet, Dartmouth Fire District 1, Duxbury, Freetown, Lakeville, Mattapoisett, Medway, Onset, Plympton, Rehoboth, Rochester, Swansea,
West Bridgewater, and Westport.
The Martin H. McNamara Outstanding Student Award was presented to Firefighter Scott Hill of the Duxbury Fire Department.
The award is named for Martin ‘Marty’McNamara V, a call firefighter with the Lancaster Fire Department who lost his life in the line of duty while battling a fire in a multifamily home. It is presented to one recruit in each graduating call/volunteer training class and recognizes their academic and practical skills, testing, and evaluations over the course of the program. Video of the ceremony is posted at the Department of Fire Services’YouTube channel, www.youtube.com/dfsosfm.
- Submitted by Jake Wark
Springfield Central High School Students Honored forBurn Safety Videos Students from Eastham, Dartmouth, and Boston Also Recognized
ASpringfield Central High School student has won first prize in the Department of Fire Services’annual Burn Awareness Video Contest and a second student received an honorable mention, State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine said today.
“In an average year, people under 18 account for more than 20 percent of burn-related emergency department visits in Massachusetts,” said State Fire Marshal Davine. “Many of these serious and even lifechanging injuries can be prevented through awareness, education, and avoiding risky behavior. Our annual Burn Awareness Video Contest gives young people the chance to spread a positive safety message to their peers. I want to congratulate our winners and thank everyone who participated for supporting such an important cause.”
Mateo Cintron, a senior at Springfield Central High School, took top honors for his entry, “The Three C’s of Burn Safety,” which co-starred fellow SCHS students. The video advises viewers of what to do in the event of a serious burn.
The grand prize, a 4K Ultra HD digital video camera, was presented to Mateo by Michael Bonina of the Massachusetts Property Insurance Underwriters Association at a brief ceremony at SCHS on May 9. Also on hand were State Fire Marshal Davine, Springfield Fire Commissioner Bernard J. Calvi, Springfield firefighters, and Erin McDonald of Shriners Children’s Boston, a contest cosponsor and the longest running exclusively pediatric, verified burn center in New England.
ative.”
“Burn injuries can be devastating and education is the key to prevention,” said Frances Marthone, Ph.D., RN, Shriners Children’s Boston Administrator. “Apillar of the Shriners Children’s mission is education, including teaching the public about ways to minimize burn injuries at home, school and in the community. The DFS Burn Awareness Video Contest aligns with our mission and we are honored to celebrate the creativity of our Massachusetts high school students.”
The second-place entry was “Idiot’s Guide to Fire Safety,” submitted by Gianna Casale, Sophia Cole, Patrick Ellsasser, Troy Gregory, Andrew Kean and Tyler Smith of Nauset Regional High School in Eastham. The video reminds viewers to change the alkaline batteries in their smoke alarms twice a year, unplug heating devices like curling irons when you're done using them, and keep lit candles away from curtains or anything else that can burn. They received a $100 gift card from Best Buy courtesy of Shriners Children’s Boston.
Ella Moe and Sierra Hart of Dartmouth High School won third place for “DHNN Starts Now,” which focused on candle safety by reminding viewers never to leave a lit candle unattended. They received a $50 Best Buy gift card from Shriners Children’s Boston.
Honorable mention went to Zada Wallace of Boston Latin Academy for “Burn Awareness II;” Isabella Cardoso and Ava Nicholson of Dartmouth High School for “Fire Safety 101;” and Victor Alvarado Colon of Springfield Central High School for “Fire Destroys.”
“The Massachusetts Property Insurance Underwriters Association is proud to sponsor the Department of Fire Services’annual Burn Awareness Video Contest,” said MPIUAPresident and CEO Barbara Peterson Law. “We would like to congratulate all the high schools that participated, and especially all the contest winners. Education is the key to prevention, and each of their videos was both educational and inform-
All six videos will be featured on the Department of Fire Services’ social media platforms throughout the week. They can be viewed in a playlist on the DFS YouTube channel. You can learn more about the contest and view prior-year finalists at the DFS website.
- Submitted by Jake Wark
33 Local Firefighters Graduate from Firefighting Academy Graduates of Class 320 Represent 12 Massachusetts FDs
State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine and Massachusetts Firefighting Academy leadership today announced the graduation of 33 firefighters from the 50-day Career Recruit Firefighting Training Program.
The graduating firefighters of Class #320 represent the fire departments of Andover, Auburn, Belmont, Chelmsford, Falmouth, Haverhill, Lynn, Methuen, Nantucket, Norwood, Seekonk, and Yarmouth.
The Richard N. Bangs Outstanding Student Award, which is presented to one recruit in each graduating career recruit training class, was presented to Firefighter Lucinda Quigley of the Falmouth Fire Department. The award is named for the longtime chair of the Massachusetts Fire Training Council and reflects the recruit’s academic and practical skills, testing, and evaluations over the course of the 10-week program.
- Submitted by Jake Wark
FFs Beat Cops at B-Ball Fundraiser
On April 18, 2024, family and friends of the Fall River(MA) Police and Fire Department gathered at Durfee High School to watch a charity basketball game to benefit the Veterans Center. The firefighterteam won 39 to 27. These two groups have participated in sporting events yearly to raise money forlocal charities.
- Fire News photo by Ken Leger
City of Newton Fire Department’s Probies
The following members have become Probationary Firefighters for the city of Newton Fire Department. Daniel J McAuliffe IV; Paul A Decina, Jr.; Nathaniel B. Beatrice; Jonathan Mastromattei; Joseph A. Busa; Arika Skoog; Steven TCampbell; and Daniel J Quinn. They are ourlatest graduates from the Massachusetts Fire Academy and Boston Fire Academy.
- Submitted by Capt. Phil McCully
Promotions in Fall River
On the evening of May 29, 2024, family, friends and co-workers gathered at Government Centerto witness the promotions of three members of the Fall River(MA) Fire Department. Captain Kevin Emond was promoted to District Chief, Lieutenant Raymond Schofield was promoted to Captain, and FirefighterMichael Fish was promoted to Lieutenant. The oath of office was delivered by Fire Chief Jeffery Bacon to the new officers. Each firefighterwas pinned by a family memberwith theirnew ranks.
- Fire News photos by Ken Leger
Arlington Truck Pull
Members of the Arlington (MA) Fire Department participated in a Truck Pull to benefit the CancerSociety Relay forLife on April 20, 2024. The team is in memory of Arlington Deputy Chief Stephen Porciello who passed away from cancerin 2017.
- Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan
Opening Day Parade in WindsorLocks
On April 20, 2024, the WindsorLocks (CT) Fire Department participated in the opening day parade forWindsorLocks Little League.
- Fire News photo by Coral Ruggiero
Apparatus Dedicated to Capt. Correia’s Memory
On June 1, 2024, Members of Fall River(MA) Special Services/EMAgathered with family and friends to honora recently deceased founding member. Aceremony was held at fire department headquarters to rememberCaptain Antone Correia. After some brief remarks and prayers, the formerCaptain’s apparatus was unveiled to reveal gold lettering dedicating the truck in his memory. - Fire News photos by Ken Leger
After6 Months, New Tracking Tool Identifies 50 Lithium-Ion Battery Fires
The Massachusetts Department of Fire Services’new tool for tracking lithium-ion battery fires has helped to identify 50 such incidents in the past six months, more than double the annual average detected by a national fire data reporting system, said State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine.
The Department of Fire Services launched its Lithium-Ion Battery Fire Investigative Checklist on October 13, 2023. It immediately went into use by the State Police Fire and Explosion Investigation Unit assigned to the State Fire Marshal’s office, and local fire departments were urged to adopt it as well. Developed by the DFS Fire Safety Division, the checklist can be used by fire investigators to gather basic information about fires in which lithium-ion batteries played a part. That information is then entered into a database to identify patterns and trends.
“We knew anecdotally that lithium-ion batteries were involved in more fires than the existing data suggested,” said State Fire Marshal Davine. “In just the past six months, investigators using this simple checklist have revealed many more incidents than we’ve seen in prior years.”
Prior to the checklist, the state’s fire service relied on battery fire data reported to the Massachusetts Fire Incident Reporting System (MFIRS), a state-level tool that mirrors and feeds into the National
Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS). NFIRS tracks battery fires but does not specifically gather data on the types of batteries involved. Some fields do not require the detailed information that Massachusetts officials were seeking, and some fires may be coded according to the type of device involved rather than the type of battery. Moreover, MFIRS reports sometimes take weeks or months to be completed and uploaded.
“Investigators using the Lithium-Ion Battery Fire Checklist are getting us better data faster,” said State Fire Marshal Davine. “The tool is helpful, but the people using it are the key to its success.”
Lithium-ion battery fires were reported in 38 cities and towns. Nine of the fires involved micromobility devices such as battery-powered scooters, e-bikes, and hoverboards, making them the most commonly involved in fires, according to the data. Eight fires involved laptops and another eight involved cell phones, tablets, or similar devices. Power tools were involved in six fires. The device’s charging status could be determined in 41 of the 50 fires: surprisingly, 56 percent of these devices were not charging at the time of the incident.
Residents can learn more about lithium-ion battery safety at the Department of Fire Services’Lithium-Ion Battery Safety web page.
- Submitted by Jake Wark
2024 East Hartford Memorial Day Parade
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“Shattered Dreams” Presentation at WindsorLocks HS
Every fouryears the WindsorLocks (CT) community puts on the “Shattered Dreams” presentation. This is a collaboration between the school, youth services, the fire department, the police department, the ambulance service, the funeral home, and local medical providers. Designed to show the consequences of impaired driving, this presentation has students witness a classmate be pronounced dead, anotherarrested, and anothertransported by LifeStar. Additional elements happen during the school day and during an overnight retreat. The program has been run in WindsorLocks forover20 years. - Fire News photos by Coral Ruggiero
Fire News photos by Michael Brinius
CAABadging Ceremony
The Connecticut Airport Authority held its 2024 Promotional and Badging Ceremony at Station 1 at Bradley International Airport on April 17, 2024. The promotions and badge pinning go back to 2021. Sixteen firefighters received theirbadge, fourto the rank of Lieutenant, and fourto the rank of Captain. Captain Scott
Rutkauskas narrated the ceremony. Chief of Bradley International Airport Sean O’Marra also spoke and presented the badges to the firefighters and theirfamily members. Directorof Public Safety James Campbell was on hand and spoke during the ceremony. - Fire News photos by John DeForest
Up Close &Personal
Firefighters on scene of a May 2, 2024, house fire in Fall River(MA).
- Fire News photo by Ken Leger
Members of Bridgeport (CT) Engine 4 take a break afteran all-hands fire on May 14, 2024.
- Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com
FUELINGINNOVATION AND UNITY: INSIDE THE EMS & FIRE PRO EXPO
The premier gathering for First Responders, the EMS & FIRE PRO Expo, established in 2014, is held annually in Connecticut. This annual event serves as a beacon of innovation and collaboration, drawing first responders from across the nation to share knowledge, discover cutting-edge technologies, and forge lasting connections.
At the EMS & FIRE PRO Expo, attendees immerse themselves in a dynamic environment where learning is paramount and camaraderie thrives. From informative workshops and interactive demonstrations to engaging networking sessions, every aspect of the expo is meticulously curated to enrich the attendee experience.
One of the standout features of the EMS & FIRE PRO Expo is its diverse lineup of speakers and presenters. Renowned experts in the field share insights into the latest trends, techniques, and best practices, empowering attendees to enhance their skills and stay ahead of the curve. Whether it’s an enlightening keynote address or a hands-on workshop led by seasoned professionals, each session offers invaluable opportunities for learning and growth.
exhibit hall filled with leading vendors showcasing state-of-the-art equipment, innovative technologies, and essential resources for EMS and fire departments. Attendees have the chance to explore the latest products, engage with industry experts, and discover solutions to enhance their operations.
But the EMS & FIRE PRO Expo is more than just a trade show, it’s a community. Attendees come together to share stories, celebrate successes, and support one another in their shared mission to serve and protect their communities. The sense of camaraderie and unity that permeates the event is palpable, creating an environment where lasting connections are forged and lifelong friendships are made.
Beyond the educational offerings, the expo boasts a bustling
As the largest and fastest-growing EMS & FIRE Expo on the East Coast, the EMS & FIRE PRO Expo is a must-attend event for anyone in the emergency services industry. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran looking to stay at the forefront of your field or a newcomer eager to learn from the best, the EMS & FIRE PRO Expo offers something for everyone. Join us for an unforgettable experience that will ignite your passion, inspire your work, and propel you to new heights in your bailiwick.
Newton (MA) crew members of Engine 2 aftera two-alarm fire on Lincoln Road.
- Submitted by Capt. Phil McCully
Chief Kevin Kelley holding a cat rescued from a two-alarm fire in Arlington (MA) on April 22, 2024.
- Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan
Bellingham (MA) Captain Brad Kwatcher. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
Up Close &Personal
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Members of the Seymour(CT) Fire Department operated at a house fire on April 30, 2024. - Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com
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WindsorLocks (CT) Fire Department Cadet Kayleigh Hill. - Fire News photo by Coral
Lincoln (RI) Ladder2’s Jimmy Gagnon. - Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
Nashua (NH) Ladder1 crew aftera fire on Cross Street.
Fire News photo by Patrick Kerrigan
Chelsea Fire Chiefs at a May 30, 2024, building fire on Revere Beach Parkway.
