Fire News New England, July/August 2023

From the Editor’s Desk

Dennis Whittam, Editor

I recently overheard a conversation between two firefighters who were talking about all of the experience they had in their department. I looked up and asked, “how many years have you been in the department?” I actually chuckled when I was told by one of the members that he had six years of experience in the fire service. I am willing to bet that as you read my last sentence, you too have a smile on your face. Truthfully, being a first responder is a job that requires constant training and practice from your first day on the job until your last.

Years of service does not necessarily qualify you to say that you are an experienced responder. This time of the year, I get nervous because we are entering brush fire season. Let’s face it, many firefighters have very little experience fighting brush fires. I am sure if you have been in the fire service for a few years, you have encountered a brush fire that might appear large to you upon arrival, but in reality it was a small fire that was quickly knocked down by two or three members who were lucky enough to be part of the crew on the brush truck. The fire that I worry about is the wind-driven brush fire that manages to take advantage of the strong winds of spring and runs through an area like a freight

When Does Training End? Reported Explosion at Oxford Fire

train. The next time you sit in your ready room, share stories of brush fires of the past that have challenged your department.

Training never ends. All responders need to know every aspect of their job. Are you able to perform your job when the conditions get rough? Ask yourself if you are truly physically fit to perform under challenging conditions. Kudos to those members that go to the gym regularly to maintain their fitness and cardio performance.

Are you a student of your craft? Do you read articles that talk about recent fires or new products? When was the last time you came down to the firehouse and took a short rope and performed some of the basic knots with which you’re supposed to be proficient? Do you know how to use that knot to quickly hoist a line or a tool to a roof? If you think you can, challenge yourself and do it! Talking about forcing a door is not the same as doing it. Don’t wait for the yearly drill on a specific tool. You must remain proficient in the techniques and operations that you use every day.

Regardless of your years of experience, your current rank or your rank from the past, lead by example. Remain dedicated to your job. Study, practice, try new things, and ask

questions! Astory of the past that is shared with one another means nothing if it does not end with a lesson being shared and learned by others.

When the alarm sounds, respond to the call with enthusiasm. If you miss the truck, stay at the firehouse until the truck returns. Offer to fill bottles, wash tools, and hear the story about the call.

When does training end? I say never!

- Dennis

North Providence 3-Alarmer

North Providence (RI) firefighters responded to White Court on May 5, 2023, forhouse fire. Companies arrived to find heavy fire conditions venting from a two-story wood frame. Asecond alarm was called as companies began advancing handlines into the occupied home. Fire broke through the trussed roofline prompting command to evacuate all firefighters fora defensive attack. Heavy fire took overall floors of the dwelling, which was originally a single-story home that added the second level. The lightweight construction of this addition failed ratherquickly. Athird alarm foradditional manpowerwas requested before the fire was placed undercontrol.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

On May 15, 2023, Oxford (MA) Fire-EMS responded to an explosion and an out-building fire at the site of an old sawmill. With the fire being out of the hydrant district, a second alarm was struck bringing in mutual aid companies forwatersupply. Due to the extremely dry conditions, they encountered some extension into the nearby brush. - Fire News photo by Bud Harris

In this issue...

Meriden 6-Alarm

Commercial Fire

Meriden (CT) firefighters found a large factory building with heavy smoke and fire showing from the rear.

See story on page 6

Brockton 4-Alarmer

Box 2217 was transmitted for a house fire on Warren Avenue in Brockton (MA).

See story on page 7

Milkman Saves Dog in Smithfield

Amilkman is being credited with saving a family dog as he was on his deliveries in Smithfield (RI) on May 16, 2023.

See story on page 9

Eastford Church Fire

In the midst of a strong thunderstorm, a first-alarm assignment was struck for reports of a structure fire at the Eastford (CT) Congregational Church.

See story on page 10

Child Burned in Merrimack

Merrimack (NH) Fire and police responded to a report of a person who was burned outside a Mayhew Road residence.

See story on page 19

Obituary

Webster’s Paul Cloutier

See story on page 29

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Meriden 6-Alarm Commercial Fire

On May 5, 2023, Meriden (CT) firefighters from the Pratt Street firehouse, only several blocks away, found a large factory building with heavy smoke and fire showing from the rear. The building was partially vacant at the time. Firefighters did a quick search and found one employee in the building and assisted him to safety. Asecond alarm was transmitted, followed by companies going defensive. Multiple additional alarms were transmitted as the fire rapidly extended throughout the building. The additional alarms brought

AyerMa

Fire Photos

Ayer(MA) firefighters operated at a two-alarm fire in Ayeron March 27, 2023. The building was fully involved upon crews arrival. Mutual aid came from several towns to assist. Crews had the fire knocked down in roughly 45 minutes.

- Fire News photo by David Bryce

companies from as faraway as Hartford and Hamden to the scene. The fire took about two hours to bring undercontrol. Companies remained on the scene fora fire watch throughout the night. The cause of the fire was being investigated by the Meriden and State Fire Marshal’s offices.

- Fire News photos by Patrick Dooley, Glenn Duda, Allhandsworking, Jack McCarthy (Fill The Box Fire Photography) and David Bowen

Fire in the Wall in East Hartford

East Hartford (CT) firefighters responded fora fire in the wall of a Sunset Ridge Drive home on May 19, 2023, at about 1520. Members arrived to light smoke showing from the attic and found fire in the exteriorwall.

Brockton

4-Alarmer

Box 2217 was transmitted fora house fire on Warren Avenue in Brockton (MA). Engine 2, Squad A, Engine 5, Engine 4 as RIT, Ladder2 and Ladder4 were dispatched. Engine 2 arrived to smoke showing from the second floor. Deputy Chief Galligan arrived and struck a second alarm with Engine 7 responding. One person jumped from a second-floorporch. Heavy fire was extending from the first floorto the attic. Chief Nardelli arrived and assumed command and struck a third alarm. Engine 3, Ladder1 and a West Bridgewaterwere dispatched. An interiorattack was made and crews finally brought the fire undercontrol in about two hours. Afourth alarm was struck forrelief purposes with engines from Easton and Avon responding.

2-Alarmer Condo Fire in

Shelton

At approximately 1415 on May 18, 2023, the Shelton (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to Summerfield Gardens fora reported generatoron fire. First-in companies reported a working fire going up the side of a two-story condo complex. The fire quickly extended into the structure via the eaves and eluded firefighters, traveling through the interiorwalls, peaks and attic. Asecond alarm was called, bringing in mutual aid from Derby and Seymour. Units from Stratford, Nichols and Monroe provided station coverage. The inhabitants of two units were displaced due to damage.

- Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

- Fire News photo by Bob Myers

Merrimack (NH) firefighters and police responded to Hawthorne Road fora reported structure fire.

Shortly before 1400 on April 8, 2023, the Naugatuck (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to MillerDrive fora house fire. - Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com

Just afternoon on

Chelmsford (MA) firefighters arrived to find heavy fire showing from a large 2-1/2 story multi-family dwelling.

The Cumberland (RI) Fire Alarm Office received calls fora house fire on Ruth Street o n April 14, 2023.

Springfield (MA) firefighters were called to Berkshire Street fora structure fire.

- Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings

April 6, 2023, Athol (MA) Fire Department responded to a residential structure fire on Petersham Road. - Fire News photo by Bryan Favreau, OnScene Images

- Fire News photo by Patrick Kerrigan

On April 21, 2023, at 1018, Canton (MA) Fire Department responded to Pleasant Circle fora reported house fire. - Fire News photo by Dave Stewart, MassfirePics.Com

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

On the morning of April 5, 2023, around 0145, Quincy (MA) Fire responded fora house fire on Willet Street.

- Fire News photo by Dave Stewart/MassFirePics.Com

- Fire News photo by John DeForest

Milkman Saves Dog in Smithfield

Amilkman is being credited with saving a family dog as he was on his deliveries in Smithfield (RI) on May 16, 2023. The driversaw heavy smoke and fire coming from the garage with a bonus room above in a large private dwelling on Melissa Lane. The driverwas able to breach a patio doorand rescue the family dog. Companies arrived to find heavy fire venting from the dormerand roof of the

dwelling and second and third alarms were called due to water issues. Companies remained in a very aggressive interiorattack on both floors of this dwelling. The firewall that was between the bonus room and garage kept the fire from spreading into the main part of the dwelling. The house suffered smoke and waterdamage.

- Fire News photos by Ken LaBelle

ChesterPizzeria Fire

On May 15, 2023, several companies responded as mutual aid to Chester(CT) fora second-alarm structure fire on Main Street. The fire broke out inside a pizza oven’s chimney and laterignited several roof shingles. Deep RiverFire Department extended its ladderto the roof where crews quickly extinguished the fire.

- Fire News photo by Olivia Drake

Eastford Church Fire

At approximately 0325 on April 23, 2023, in the midst of a strong thunderstorm, a first alarm assignment was struck forreports of a structure fire at the Eastford Congregational Church on Church Road in Eastford (CT). Minutes later, a responding unit requested an immediate second alarm. As crews arrived, they found the church heavily involved with fire coming through the roof. Asecond-alarm was struck in addition to a regional Tanker Task Force request, due to the lack of hydrants in the area. Early into the firefighting ops, the decision was made to go defensive due to heavy fire and a roof collapse. Aerial apparatus were brought in from the Woodstock, Dayville, and UCONN to get wateronto the innerportions of the structure which was not reachable by exteriorhandlines. To supply these three units with water, nearly a mile of five-inch LDH was laid, with relay engines strategically placed along the route. Additionally, the TankerTask Force was put to work on a tankershuttle. These tankers drove a loop, approximately 1.5-miles long, to be filled by a draft engine at the fill site and dump theirtanks into three waiting drop tanks. The incident was put undercontrol afterapproximately three hours.

- Fire News photo by Dan Majercik

Bozrah House Fire

The Bozrah (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to the area of the 140 block fora fast moving fire in a single-family, 2-1/2 story, wood frame. It took mutual aid from several area departments to bring the fire under control in about an hour, and several more to wrap it all up. The family dog was found and successfully reunited with the ownerafterthe first 30 minutes. There were no reported injuries, and the cause of the blaze was being looked into by the area’s fire marshall.

Manchester Garage Fire

Manchester(CT) firefighters responded fora working fire on Woodbridge Street on April 22, 2023. The first-due engine, about six houses away, arrived to heavy fire from the garage extending into the house.

- Fire News photo by Joe Shefer

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

Rockland Fire Extends

Waterbury Mill Fire Fall River Porch Fire

Around 1545 on the afternoon of May 17, 2023, the Rockland (MA) Fire Department responded fora building fire on Manzella Court. Companies arrived to find smoke showing from the rearof a single-story residential duplex. Mutual aid came from Abington, Hanover, Pembroke and Whitman; Hanson covered. As companies opened up, they found the fire had extended into the house and attic space where companies found heavy fire. Following the fire being knocked down, Rockland Lieutenant Charlie Williams emerged from the house with the family cat, seemingly uninjured.

- Fire News photo by Pat Travers

At 1105 on May 24, 2023, Fall River(MA) firefighters were toned out fora still alarm on Division Street. On arrival, it was determined that the fire was around the corner on Beacon Street. Car3 arrived and reported a first-floorexteriorporch fire that had communicated to the entire exteriorwall all the way to the roof. Engines 2, 4 and 5, along with Ladders 2 and 4, Heavy Rescue 1 and Car3 responded. Attack lines were stretched and firefighters knocked down the exteriorflames before moving inside. Firefighters opened the walls on all three floors and completed extinguishment.

- Fire News photo by Ken Leger

Waterbury (CT) companies responded fora mill fire on May 27, 2023, on Main Street. Crews arrived to find heavy fire issuing from a long-vacant mill building complex. Crews had a difficult time accessing the complex due to a riveralongside and heavy vegetation. The cause of the fire was suspicious. Several firefighters were evaluated forvarious medical conditions.

- Fire News photo by Glenn Duda, AllHandsWorking

Tewksbury Garage Fire

Tewksbury (MA) firefighters responded to a two-alarm fire in a garage on Whited Avenue recently. - Fire News photo by Jay Heath

Montello St. Blaze

Brockton (MA) crews responded to a house fire on Montello Street with possible people trapped. Engines 2 and 4, Squad A, Engine 5 (RIT) and Ladders 4 and 1 were dispatched. Several residents had jumped out second floorwindows priorto firefighters arrival. Car 56 struck a second alarm. Several lines were stretched to the interioras searches were still underway. The fire had extended to the upperfloorand into the attic. It took an about an hourto bring the blaze undercontrol.

- Fire News photo by Bob Myers

Mashpee Garage Fire

On May 11, 2023, Mashpee (MA) firefighters worked a garage fire which spread up a side wall and slightly inside the structure. Mutual aid came from West Barnstable.

- Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade

ManchesterBrush Fire

In the afternoon of May 8, 2023, the Manchester(NH) Fire Department dispatched an engine to Brown Avenue fora report of a brush fire. Engine 3 found fire working its way up the hill from Brown Avenue towards Goffs Falls Road and requested additional units due to structures in the area. Engine 6, Engine 9, Forestry 1,

and Squad 1 responded to the scene and contained the fire within 20 minutes. Rescue 1 was latercalled to the scene due to a tree with fire running through it that would need to be cut down.

- Fire News photos by Sean Fesko/911 ERVand Jeffrey Hastings

6-Alarm Church Fire in Cambridge

Cambridge (MA) firefighters battled theirsecond fire of the day on EasterSunday at a church on Broadway. Companies arrived to find heavy smoke coming from the church and the Division Chief struck a second alarm on arrival. Companies made an aggressive interiorattack with big lines into the church where they encountered heavy fire conditions. Crews were drawn back due to the fire conditions inside the Church and operated at a defensive position. Command struck the third, fourth, fifth and sixth alarms bringing in mutual aid to the city and to the fire scene. Companies remained on scene for several hours overhauling.

- Fire News photos by Patrick Kerrigan and Jake Wark

New Haven Construction Collapse

On June 2, 2023, New Haven (CT) firefighters responded to LaFayette Street shortly before 1300 fora reported construction accident with partial collapse. First arriving companies found chaos throughout the site as workers were attempting to assist theirinjured co-workers. Firefighters found six workers trapped within the collapse of wood forms, rebarand wet cement. Rescuers had to work fast, in dangerous conditions, to search forand extricate the injured workers. Five workers were carried out via Stoke’s baskets afterbeing extricated. One workerwas removed via a high-point hauling system set up using Truck 1 and ropes. It took firefighters about 45 minutes to extricate, package and remove that worker. All totaled, eight construction workers were injured in the collapse. Several were in critical condition at area hospitals. The cause was being investigated by OSHA, the fire marshal’s office and building officials.

- Fire News photos by Glenn Duda, Allhandsworking

Lightning Strike Causes Church Fire

Firefighters operated at a church fire in Spencer(MA). The fire appeared to be caused by a lightning strike. The church was built in 1863.

- Fire News photos by Paul Shea

Milford MVA

On April 28, 2023, the Milford (NH) Fire Department was dispatched to a reported rolloveron North River Road nearthe Wilton town line. Companies had a single caron its side next to a tree; while the operatorwas not injured, he did require extrication.

- Fire News photo by Sean Fesko/911 ERV

1 Transported from Arlington MVA

Arlington (MA) firefighters operated at a single-carMVAat the intersection of Park Avenue and Florence Avenue on May 29, 2023. The operatorwas removed from the carand was transported to the hospital forevaluation by Arlington Fire Department Rescue.

- Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan

Haddam MVA

At 1145 on May 4, 2023, Haddam (CT) VolunteerFire Company responded to Killingworth Road foran MVA. A driverheading southbound on Killingworth Road crossed into the northbound lane and struck a series of trees. Firefighters used chainsaws to cleara pathway through heavy brush to access and safely removed the patient, who was transported to Hartford Hospital with injuries. Crews closed the northbound lane of Killingworth Road during the incident.

- Fire News photo by Olivia Drake

2-CarMVA in Fall River

On the afternoon of April 24, 2023, Fall River(MA) emergency personnel were dispatched to a two-carMVAat the intersection of Mariano Bishop Boulevard and Newton Street. Engine 5, Rescue 3, and Squad 11 were dispatched and, on arrival, Engine 5 called fora district chief to respond and Car3 was dispatched. Paramedics called foran additional rescue to transport the injured.

- Fire News photo by Ken Leger

Making Fireworks Goes Bad

On May 21, 2023, Kingston (MA) Fire responded to NobadeerCircle, fora subject who was making homemade fireworks. There was an explosion and the victim suffered traumatic hand injuries on both hands, traumatic abdominal injuries, and burns to his face. The patient was transported to the LZ by a mutual aid ambulance from Plympton and transported to a Boston hospital.

Child Burned in Merrimack

Merrimack (NH) Fire and police responded to a report of a person who was burned outside a Mayhew Road residence. While responding to the scene, Merrimack Fire checked on the availability of the DHARTMedical helicopter. Dispatch updated responders that a young child had fallen into a fire and had burns. Firefighters arrived and found a young boy with injuries from the fire that were described as on his arm and back and covered approximately 20 percent of his body. Based on the updates on the child’s medical condition DHART was requested to land at Bishop Field, where firefighters and police secured the area. DHARTlanded within 15 minutes and awaited the arrival of the child being transported by Merrimack Fire Rescue. The child was trans ferred to the helicopterand flown to Massachusetts General Hospital in what was described as stable condition.

- Fire News photo by John Sjostedt

- Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings

Looking Back

New Britain, CT- 1976

3rd Alarm at Willow Brook Shopping Centeron December18th.

- Photos from the Joe Marino Collection, submitted by Jim Peruta Worcester,

July 4 1995, 38 years ago. This fire on Hollis Street in Worcester (MA). Embers from the fire were out of control.

Fitchburg,

Fitchburg (MA) building/trailerfires on July 29 2003. Deputy Chief James Belliveau in command.

- Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade

Training

Night Time Fire Suppression Training

Hartford (CT) County Regional Fire School FF1 class took part in night time fire suppression at the paint booth at the Connecticut Fire Academy. Firefighters worked in teams of three, a team on the attack line and back up attack line. Crews would advance an attack line to the fire and the third memberof the team would move in and secure the gas shut off valve. Crews understood the importance when backing out to neverturn theirbacks on a fire.

- Fire News photo by John DeForest

Western MAFire Chiefs Assoc. Leadership Academy

The Western Massachusetts Fire Chiefs Association recently hosted the 2023 Leadership Academy. Chief Willian Greenwood’s program filled the conference room with 65 attendees each day, with firefighters and officers from five years to 35years on the job seeking professional development on today’s hot button topics and officer challenges.

Day 1 consisted of two great classes. Critical Decision Making Under Fire which made sense of the modern-day fire science while wearing full PPE/SCBA; and Extreme Leadership 3.0 - about bridging the Leadership/Generational Gap. Understanding the why of human behaviors.

Day 2 began with another two programs on under-

standing human behaviors during RITactivations and preparing senior management staff officers on Managing the Chaos of a Firefighter Mayday. The final program of the academy was developing plans to manage compensating behaviors, interpersonal dynamics and conflict resolution modeling for all levels.

Western MAchiefs developed the Leadership Academy to offer professional development for future leaders of the fire service. The goal is to supply leading tactical and leadership programs for local fire service personnel. If you have a program, you are interested in presenting, contact Chief Russ Anderson (ret.) at russand21@comcast.net.

- Submitted by Chief Russ Anderson

Training

Putnam Vocational Students Visit Fire Academy

Students from the Roger L. Putnam Vocational Technical Academy in Springfield recently spent a day learning about careers in the fire service at the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy (MFA).

The 10 juniors, who are studying in various vocational fields, visited the Department of Fire Services’(DFS) Springfield campus on April 26, 2023. Dr. Sara Pragluski Walsh, who serves as the MFA’s instructional design and curriculum development specialist, met students with Assistant Coordinator Peter Jerusik of the Career Recruit Firefighter Program. They led a discussion and presentation on the fire service mission followed by an engaging tour of the campus that demonstrated the myriad types of training that the MFAoffers to firefighters at every level of experience.

Academy instructors Zachary Gates and Christopher Hernandez — who are both experienced firefighters — assisted students in learning how to don and doff their turnout gear while emphasizing the importance of safety within the fire service. Students were assigned to instructors to learn and then apply practical skills in search and rescue, forcible entry, and hose deployment. The students were

extremely hands on with their learned skills, properly leveraging the “irons” as well as additional tools when carrying out forcible entry skills and interior search tactics. All the while, they supported each other in a teamwork approach that instructors emphasized as a core fire service value.

Aclass of recruit firefighters was conducting a live fire practical day during the visit, which allowed students to observe active firefighter training and discuss it with their assigned instructors. Throughout the day, MFAstaff and municipal firefighters joined in to support the learning - many of them sharing that they, too, were graduates of Putnam or other Springfield public schools.

The Putnam Vocational visit followed similar events for students at Shrewsbury High School, Northampton’s Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School, and South Shore Technical High School’s first Fire Cadet Training Program, which was offered in partnership with several local fire departments. DFS officials hope to continue offering the experiential opportunity to young people from across the Commonwealth at all three campuses.

- Submitted by Jake Wark

Bedford Live Burn Training

Firefighters from Bedford, Goffstown, and New Boston (all NH) participated in hands-on training at a house scheduled fordemolition on New Boston Road. Adeveloperwho purchased the property gave Bedford Fire the opportunity to use it fortraining. Crews were able to train fortwo weeks at the property, performing search and rescue, fire suppression, thermal imaging, and equipment use. Bedford Fire Captain Benjamin Selleck said that skills practice d were immediately used at a fire on Elizabeth Way. Captain Selleck said he believes it made a significant difference in quickly knocking down that fire and keeping it to one room.

- Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings

Active Shooter Training in Arlington

Wilmot Live Burn

Fall RiverTrains

On May 26, 2023, the Fall River(MA) Fire Department Training Division was conducting recruit training at theirtraining facility. The June 2023 recruit training academy has firefighters from Fall River, Taunton and Dighton learning theirskills. On this day the recruits were practicing venting, entering, searching and extinguishing live fire. Teams of recruits would climb ladders to the roof and using a chainsaw would ventilate the structure while other teams were searching forvictims while others were stretching an attack line and extinguishing live fire.

- Fire News photo by Ken Leger

Firefighters drill at a training burn in Wilmot (NH) on April 1, 2023.

- Fire News photo by Sean Fesko/911 ERV

On May 24, 2023, the Arlington (MA) Fire Department, in conjunction with the Arlington Police Department, participated in Active ShooterTraining. Firefighters, with protection of police officers, triaged and rendered immediate first aid to the “victims” and removed them to a safe area. - Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan

Training

WindsorLocks Fire Holds Practical RITTraining

On May 6, 2023, the WindsorLocks (CT) Fire Department held Rapid Intervention Team practical training instructed by Connecticut Custom Fire Training LLC. Personnel received hands-on training in use of the RITairpack, pack conversions and packaging forremoval, high point anchorremoval with 2:1 MAsystems, removal upstairs, removal out a basement window, and rapid gearremoval fora firefighterin cardiac arrest. The day culminated with a realtime scenario of an entire company in distress with simulated smoke significantly decreasing visibility. The WLFD would like to thank the Fire Departments of Enfield Training Division forthe use of an acquired structure, as well as CCFTforan incredible class that will betterprepare o urpersonnel to rescue ourbrothers and sisters in the event of a Mayday.

Leominster

Airbag Training

- Fire News photo by Coral Ruggiero

Leominster(MA) Ladder1 Engine 4 and Rescue crew train on airbags on May 13, 2023.

- Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade

Bringing Back a Remnant of the Past

The City of Barre (VT) fire station was erected at 8 South Main Street in 1904 and served the community for over 100 years. It was closed and put up for sale by the City in 2006. Valerie WhiteBeaudet purchased the building after the initial owners were unable to have success with it.

The Ladder 1 Grill and Pub has been operating in the old firehouse since 2008. In 2013, White-Beaudet decided to turn the existing space on the second floor into the Firehouse Inn with several rooms available for overnight stays. Although the building has been completely renovated and restored, it still has that old firehouse feel and charm.

The Ladder 1 Grill and Pub on the first floor has seating spread out throughout the large former apparatus floor. The walls and ceiling alike are covered in fire patches, t-shirts, and antique firefighting tools and other historical items. Many of the antique firefighting items throughout the building were a part of a firefighting museum, which occupied the space at one time. Food items throughout the menu feature firefighting themes, or are named after area firefighters.

On the second floor, the Firehouse Inn has four rooms with clever names, including the “Chief’s One Bedroom Suite” and the “Captain’s Studio Suite,” which are available for overnight stays ranging from $165$229/night. All the rooms feature cable, wifi, kitchenettes and other amenities. Old photographs from the Barre Fire Department line the hallway walls, and small features like an old firehouse telephone make the

State Fire Marshal Names New Fire Safety Division Director

State Fire Marshal Peter J. Ostroskey recently welcomed Brian J. Ingram as director of the Fire Safety Division of the Department of Fire Services. Mr. Ingram has more than 30 years of fire and life safety experience, including 15 years in managing fire safety at institutions of higher learning and more than 20 years as a firefighter.

The Fire Safety Division is one of four divisions within the Department of Fire Services. Its staff conduct and coordinate code compliance and enforcement, fire data colle ction and reporting, public education, licensing and certification, a nd other vital functions.

Mr. Ingram comes to the Department of Fire Services from Bentle y University, where he served as fire safety officer before being named manager of fire and life safety operations. In this role, he was responsible for campus-wide fire and life safety planning, management , supervision, compliance oversight, and system operability, as well as managing the school’s fire response and prevention in partnership with the Waltham Fire Department. Prior to that, he was the fire safety officer and fire marshal for Becker College, where he created and a dministered the first fire safety program in the college’s history.

space feel authentic.

The owner has plans to turn the basement of the old firehouse into a “speakeasy” style barroom, which has a planned opening of later this year.

The Ladder 1 Grill and Pub can be visited online at www.ladder1grill.com, and the Firehouse Inn can be visited at www.firehouseinnvermont.com.

20 Local Firefighters Graduate from Firefighting Academy

Massachusetts State Fire Marshal Peter J. Ostroskey and Massachusetts Firefighting Academy Director Jeffrey P. Winn announced the graduation of 20 firefighters from the 50-day Career Recruit Firefighting Training Program.

The graduating firefighters of Class 310 represent the fire departments of Andover, Charlton, Danvers, Devens, Littleton, Malden, Middleton, Plainville, Wakefield, Waltham, and Wilmington.

The MFAprovides recruit and in-service training for Massachusetts firefighters in all stages stage of their careers, from recruit to chief officer, at campuses in Stow, Springfield, and Bridgewater.

- Submitted by Jake Wark

Orange FFs Honora Century and Half of Service at Annual Meeting

- Submitted by Jake Wark

Mr. Ingram has also served as a firefighter and fire educator in Berlin and West Boylston, MA, and in Farmington, CT, where he was promoted to the rank of lieutenant and named Firefighter of the Year in 1995. He is a graduate of Becker College, a credentialed fire p revention officer, and a certified fire investigator. He is a reside nt of Marlborough.

Food and Facts forSeniors at Simsbury Breakfast

Orange firefighters honored seven members who have given a total of 145 years of service to the town and celebrated the rescue of one firefighter by another. The tributes came at the recent annual meeting of the Orange (CT) Volunteer Fire Department.

In other reports, Jillian Gagel, president of the OVFD Auxiliary, reported that the auxiliary was back to doing all of its fundraising events.

Dumas and Selectwoman JudyWilliams recognized firefighters for their length of service. They were: Past Assistant Chief Michae l Esposito - 30 years; Firefighter Steven Douglas - 30 years; Firefighter Scott Reichbart - 25 years; Firefighter Dan Johnson - 20 years; Fire Chief Vaughan Dumas - 20 years; Lt. Dan Abrams - 10 years; and Assistant Chief Eric Auscavitch - 10 years.

- Fire News photo by Mark Grabowski

The Simsbury (CT) Volunteer Fire Department’s pancake breakfast crew. They served and also provided valuable information to the seniorcitizens of Simsbury. Chief Baldis oversaw the presentation. The breakfast was held at the Simsbury Fire Department headquarters on Hopmeadow Street.

- Submitted by Doug Fenichel

- Fire News photos by Pat Travers

International Firefighter’s Appreciation Day in Bridgeport

In celebration of International Firefighter’s Day, on May 5, 2023, Frank Pepe Pizza of Fairfield (CT) delivered theiraward-winning pizzas as well as souvenirt-shirts to the on-duty members of the

WorcesterSt. Patrick’s Day Parade

Bridgeport Fire Department Headquarters companies. As you can see … it was much appreciated!

- Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com

Hadley Hosts Home Fire SprinklerDemonstration

The Worcester(MA) St. Patrick’s Day parade. The parade is a threemile route up Park Avenue.

- Fire News photos by Paul Shea

Close Up with LifeStar forHaddam

Acrew from LifeStar, a critical care helicopter service operated through Hartford HealthCare, visited Haddam (CT) VolunteerFire Company on May 8. The LifeStar crew allowed HVFC members to tour the helicopterand learn more about its various capabilities and airborne medical transport services.

- Fire News photos by Olivia Drake

To promote Home Fire Sprinkler Week, Hadley Fire Chief Michael H. Spanknebel and the Hadley Fire Department hosted Massachusetts State Fire Marshal Peter J. Ostroskey and a side-by-side prop that demonstrated the power of fire sprinklers to save lives and property.

The Department of Fire Services’side-by-side sprinkler trailer set up at American Legion Post 271 on May 16, 2023. The trailer contains two rooms with identical furnishings. On room was protected by a single sprinkler head, and the other was not.

Local fire departments can request the side-by-side sprinkler t railer for their own demonstrations through the Department of Fire Services’ web page. You can learn more about Home Fire Sprinkler Week at https://homefiresprinkler.org.

- Submitted by Jake Wark

Metro Drill Class Graduates

The Metro Drill Class at John A. Martin Fire Academy in Boston. This group graduated on May 11, 2023.

- Fire News photo by William Noonan

NATIONALFALLEN FIREFIGHTERS FOUNDATION AND FIRSTRESPONDER CENTER FOR EXCELLENCE SELECTNEW CHIEFEXECUTIVE OFFICER

Following the recent retirement announcement of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) and First Responder Center for Excellence (FRCE) Executive Director Chief Ron Siarnicki, the NFFF and FRCE Board of Directors began a nationwide search for a replacement. Utilizing the services of Vetted Solutions, a Washington DC-based executive search firm specializing in non-profit work, the Board-established search committee has selected NFFF Managing Director Victor Stagnaro to lead the organization after Chief Siarnicki finishes his term in December of 2023.

Victor Stagnaro joined the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation staff in 2010 and serves as the Managing Director, overseeing NFFF’s Family and Fire Service Programs, Marketing, and Business Management. Prior to that, he served for 25 years with the Prince George’s County Fire/Emergency Medical Services Department and retired as the Deputy Fire Chief of Emergency Operations in early 2010. His involvement with the Foundation dates back to 1998, when he served as the Incident Commander for the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend for several years; he also served as a member of the initial Ne w York Response Team on 9/11 for the Foundation.

“We are delighted to have Victor take the reins of our organization as he has demonstrated excellent leadership skills and commitment to the mission of both the NFFF and FRCE since joining our team. It was an exhaustive process, and he clearly exhibited the capabilities to take over this leadership role. We look forward to what he will do to move both organizations forward,” said Troy Markel, Chairman of the NFFF Board of Directors.

“I have known Victor back to the days when he served with the Prince George’s County Fire and EMS Department and his level of professionalism and commitment to excellence has been his mainstay in all that he has been involved with. I know he will take the FRCE to new levels as it continues to service our Public Safety Partners,” said Chief Ernie Mitchell, Chairman of the FRCE Board of Directors.

Western MAChiefs Meet with Legislators

The Western Massachusetts Fire Chiefs Association recently host ed its annual legislative breakfast at Holyoke’s Delany House. This program had previously been an annual event priorto Covid, and was the first time since Covid chiefs were able to get together with local senators, state representatives, local select boards and mayors to discuss issues facing the fire service. Topics this yearincl uded pending bills forfire station construction and renovations, a tremendous need forthe Western Masachusetts area. Othertopics included local sprinklerbill options and building code issues f acing

fire prevention goals. Examples with the benefits of the Department of Fire Services “Equipment Grant,” a grant that has allowed local departments to fulfill critical equipment needs. Otherissues in cluded ambulance billing practices and its impact on local communities, and EMS and its effectiveness underthe Department of Public Health. This annual event allows state and local officials a fantastic opportunity to get togetherand discuss issues and thank them for theirsupport.

- Submitted by Chief Anderson (ret.)

Orange FFs Talk About Safety with Kids

It was a busy week for members of the Orange (CT) Volunteer Fire Department as they met with children at three different events.

“These events are as much fun for the firefighters as they are for the kids,” said Firefighter Lisa Kaplan, who chairs the department’s Public Education Committee. “We get to teach some fire prevention and home safety tips. Equally important, the children get to see us in our gear and see our equipment. They learn not to be afraid of us and to come to us in an emergency, even if we’re in turnout gear and maybe even wearing

air masks.”

Firefighters recently visited the Racebrook School’s Touch-A-Truck event, talked with a group of preschoolers from the Orange Congregational Church Nursery School, and welcomed Girl Scouts from Daisy Troop 60226 to their firehouse. Kaplan said the department has programs for children of all ages and for adults.

- Submitted by Doug Fenichel

Obituary Webster’s Paul Cloutier

Amemorial service was held for Webster (MA) Firefighter Paul Cloutier, on a cold and snowy March 4, 2023. Paul was also a member of the Muddy Brook Fire Department in Woodstock (CT). Paul was responding to a dive rescue call in Webster. He never arrived on scene and he was found to have had a medical emergency in his vehicle

Paul is survived by his wife, Ali; son Quinton and daughter Victoria Cloutier; mother Judith; and sister Karen Cloutier along with m any aunts, uncles, cousins and very close friends.

- Fire News photos by Paul Shea

Up Close &Personal

Members of Cumberland (RI) Engine and Ladder1 along with Chief of Department Nick Anderson.

On May 24, 2023, the Arlington (MA) Fire Department, in conjunction with the Arlington Police Department, participated in Active ShooterTraining. - Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan

Alieutenant from Beacon Hose Company (Beacon Falls, CT) operating at a recent second-alarm in Oxford on April 12, 2023.

Quincy (MA) Ladder2 crew aftera second alarm on April 5, 2023.

Pictured at a recent multiple-alarm in Rowley (MA) is Salem Firefighters Ray Krajeski (left) and Shawn Edge (right). Ray’s son Andrew (center) is an FFOPin the town of Rowley.

Norfolk (CT) past-Chief Daryl Byrne and his daughter, 1st Lieutenant Thaylia Byrne afteran interiorattack at a recent live fire training session.

- Fire News photo by Ed Harvey

Simsbury Assistant and Hartford County CoordinatorJason Gilbert and East Granby Fire Marshal and Hartford County CoordinatorKen Beliveau.

- Fire News photo by John DeForest

On his last day with the Bridgeport (CT) Fire Department after 29 years of service. FirefighterDoug Coy (second from right) stopped fora photo with his crew afterbattling a two-alarm condo fire on May 3, 2023.

- Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com

Mashpee (MA) firefighters aftera recent fire.

- Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade

- Fire News photo by Dave Stewart, MassFirePics.Com

- Fire News photo by Glenn S. Preston

Firefighters from the Hartford (CT) Fire Department.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

- Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com