Fire News New England, Sept.-Oct. 2023

NEW FEATURE NEW FEATURE

CONGRESS TO CUTAFG AND SAFER GRANTS? YOUR ACTION NEEDED!

The International Association of Fire Chiefs, the International Association of Fire Fighters, the National Volunteer Fire Council, the Congressional Fire Services Institute, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, and the National Fire Protection Association all joined together in a unified voice to express outrage at recently proposed cuts to the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) and Staffing forAdequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) programs. Our organizations call upon Congress to restore funding to these programs. Your support in amplifying our message would be invaluable

Here is a link to their full statement: https://www.iafc.org/docs/default-source/ 1gr/fire-groups-statement-on-afg-and-safergrant-cuts.pdf

ODD HOURS, NO PAY, COOLHAT

The National VolunteerFire Council is proud to work in collaboration with John

Deere, Hold Fast Features, and Vignette on the volunteer fire service documentary Odd Hours, No Pay, Cool Hat . The film (https://oddhoursfilm.com/watch) is now available nationwide and can be rented or purchased via iTunes, Amazon, and Google Play.

This film aims to expand the visibility of volunteer firefighting and increase recruitment across the country. The trailer can be seen at https://vimeo.com/812127020/ead44de435.

VOLUNTEER FIRST RESPONDER HOUSINGACT

Congressman Andrew R. Garbarino (R-NY02) introduced the VolunteerFirst Responder Housing Act, legislation to expand eligibility for qualified volunteer emergency responders to participate in certain federal housing assistance programs. ).

Specifically, this bill would expand eligibility for the Single Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program through the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development and the Department of Housing and Urban Development's Good Neighbor Next Door Sales Program. The Single Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program assists approved

lenders in providing loans to low and moderate income households to build, rehabilitate or improve a home in eligible rural areas. The income limit for the program is no more than 115 percent of the median household income. The VolunteerFirst ResponderHousing Act would allow volunteers to participate in the loan program even if their income exceeds the maximum allowable income level by up to $18,000. The Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Good Neighbor Next Door Sales Program is an existing program that gives law enforcement officers, teachers, firefighters, and emergency medical technicians a 50 percent discount from the list price of a home located in a revitalization area. The full text of the bill can be found at https://t.ly/E8EBQ.

In this issue...

Lightning Strike Causes

Dover 3-Alarm

Dover (NH) firefighters worked a threealarm building fire on Spruce Lane Extension following a lightning strike.

See story on page 6

Tilton Duplex Fire

Tilton (NH) firefighters responded for a second alarm at a heavy timber duplex under construction.

See story on page 8

Fair Haven

3-Alarmer

Multiple calls alerted Fair Haven (CT) companies on July 14, 2023, for a fire on Chapel Street.

See story on page 10

Derby Fire Displaces 2 Families

The Derby (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to Maple Avenue for a structure fire.

See story on page 12

Tractor-Trailer Rollover in Plympton

Plympton (MA) Fire responded to a cranberry bog on Main St. for a tractortrailer which rolled over into the bog.

See story on page 18

Chief Kirby Brand Wraps Up a 40+ Year Career

Hamilton’s (MA) Kirby Brand was recently acknowledged by his fellow brothers and sisters.

See story on page 22

AService for Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine Firefighters and EMS Providers

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Historic Home Fire in Haddam

At 0250 on June 7, 2023, Haddam (CT) VolunteerFire Company, along with mutual aid responded to a structure fire on Saybrook Road in Haddam. Upon arrival, the structure was completely involved. The historic home - built in 1790 - was unoccupied. The fire was under investigation. Mutual aid came from Chester, Deep River, Middletown, and Middletown South District. Tankers came from Chester, Haddam Neck, Essex, Killingworth, Durham, Clinton, Middlefield, Portland, an d Westbrook; Deep Riverand Killingworth provided town wide coverage during the incident. The call was cleared approximately fourhours later.

Lightning Strike Causes Dover3-Alarm

Uxbridge House Fire

On August 4, 2023, Dover(NH) firefighters worked a three-alarm building fire on Spruce Lane Extension following a lightning strike to a barn.

On May 29, 2023, as Memorial Day cookouts were winding down, Uxbridge (MA) firefighters along with mutual aid companies responded to a 100-plus-year-old house with heavy fire showing on arrival.

- Fire News photos by Robert Nettles

- Fire News photo by Olivia Drake

- Fire News photo by Bud Harris

Almost the Perfect Storm

On June 1, 2023, at approximately 2300, the Ferrisburgh (VT) Fire Department was dispatched to a call fora tractortraileron Route 7 with its brakes on fire. First arriving units found the rearof the unit on fire with rapid extension to the front of the trailer. The truck was carrying 440,000-cubic-feet of natural gas. Asecond and third alarm were requested by Chief Wagerand the road was shut down. The fire at this time had grown horizontally shutting off access from both the north and south. Seeing the communication and powerlines on the west side of the road engulfed, the IC ordered the electrical grid in the sectorto be shut down. Unfortunately, the back-up electrical powerto support communications failed, resulting in a temporary interruption of radio communication. Evacuation was ordered forthe civilians in the closest residences. The pressure relief valves released approximately 20 minutes into the incident and performed as designed. The unit was cooled forthe approximately one-hourit took to burn off all of the compressed gas.

- Submitted by Michael Donnelly

Heavy Fire on Arrival in Athol

At 0320 on August 14, 2023, Athol (MA) Fire responded to a structure fire on Froman Street. Upon arrival, crews encountered heavy fire in the building. Command immediately requested a second alarm foradditional manpowerand apparatus. The heavy fire was knocked down in the first 35 minutes and crews remained on scene fora couple of hours with extensive overhaul required. The cause of the blaze was underinvestigation.

- Fire News photo by Bryan Favreau, Onscene Images

East Granby 3-Alarmer

East Granby (CT), crews responded to a three-alarm fire. They encountered heavy fire from a large home on North Main Street on July 16, 2023, at 2302. The family dog woke the homeowners up and they noticed the fire. This was the second fire of the day forEast Granby.

- Fire News photos by Patrick Dooley

Tilton Duplex Fire

On April 4, 2023, Tilton (NH) firefighters responded fora second alarm at a heavy timberduplex underconstruction. The responding Tilton and Franklin companies, requested a second alarm priorto arrival, and found the garage in between the two duplexes heavily involved with extension into the attic on the right-side duplex.

Holden

2-AlarmerArson

Holden (MA) firefighters were called to a house on JuniperLane in the early evening hours on June 6, 2023, when callers reported seeing smoke and flames coming from a dwelling. Downed powerlines hindered firefighting efforts until the powercould be disconnected. Asecond alarm was struck due to the heavy fire load on arrival, bringing in crews from neighboring communities. It was learned early on that the fire was intentionally set. Asuspect was taken into custody a short distance away before the fire was extinguished - Fire News photo by Paul Shea

- Fire News photo by Jay Heath

Lucky Spot fora Fire

Lowell (MA) firefighters arrived one block away from the West 6th Street firehouse forfire showing from a 2 1/2 story, woodframe, multi-family dwelling. Companies made an aggressive interiorattack and had the fire knocked down in a short amount of time. Command struck a second alarm bringing in more manpowerto the scene due to the fire extending into the walls and attic. - Fire News photo by Patrick Kerrigan

Templeton Shed Fire

Templeton firefighters responded just before 2100 on July 21, 2023, to a reported shed fire on Brooks Village Road. Upon arrival Chief Dickie reported a shed fully involved and requested an additional engine out of Phillipston to the scene. Lightning is believed to have struck a tree behind the shed but the cause was underinvestigation.

- Fire News photo by Bryan Favreau, Onscene Images

FairHaven 3-Alarmer

Multiple calls alerted FairHaven (CT) companies on July 14, 202 3, fora fire on Chapel Street. First-due Engine 10 reported a twostory, commercial building going with exposures. Companies stretched big lines and prepared foran exteriorfirefight. Heavy fire vented out the second-floorwindows as Truck 1’s towerworked to beat the flames back. Asecond alarm was transmitted due to low watersupply and the extreme heat of the day. Companies were able to keep the fire to the building of origin. However, with no headway

made on a now deep-seated fire, a third alarm was transmitted bringing additional companies to the scene. The fire took about 90 minutes to bring undercontrol. Firefighters remained on the sce ne throughout the night with a fire watch detail. The cause of the fire was being investigated by the New Haven Fire Marshal’s Office and New Haven Police. Fourfirefighters were injured battling the blaze.

- Fire News photos by Glenn Duda, Allhandsworking and FireGroundImages

Concord 2-Alarmer

On July 24, 2023, at 0241, Concord (NH) firefighters responded fora second alarm-plus fire at the Furniture Warehouse in the Penacook Section of Concord. First-due Engine 5 arrived to find heavy fire from the building and immediately went into defensiv e operations.

Fire News photo by Jay Heath

Fatal 2-Alarmer in Vernon

Vernon (CT) firefighters responded to a two-alarm-with-special-calls fatal fire on Hany Lane on June 11, 2023, at 2318. Companies arrived to heavy fire from the attached garage, which was extending into the house. Mutual aid came from South Windsor, Broad Brook, Ellington and Bolton. Local and State FMO are investigating the cause.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

-

FormerTaftville Church Fire

The Taftville (CT) Fire Department of Norwich, was alerted fora working fire by Norwich Police on August 5, 2023. The formerTaftville Congregational Church on North B Street had visible fire showing from the sacristy on the C/D cornerof the building. The 1800s all-wood construction building already had fire running inside the vertical spaces leading to the roofline of the cathedral ceiling in the sacristy. Firefighters from Taftville, and several area departments used an aerial and large diameterhandlines to eventually bring the fire undercontrol in an hour orso. There were no reported injuries, and the Norwich FMO was investigating. - Fire News photo by Joe Shefer

Brockton Structure Fire

On August 3, 2023, at 2250, Brockton (MA) Fire struck Box 3116 forNorth Main Street forreported smoke coming from an auto body shop. Companies arrived to smoke showing from a garage doorin the rear. Companies located a vehicle fire inside of a large single- and two-story brick occupied residential and commercial building. Firefighters stretched two 2-1/2 inch lines to knock down the fire.

- Fire News photo by Dave Stewart/MassFirePics.Com

Woburn Multi-Dwelling 2-Alarmer

Middletown Structural Fire

On June 25, 2023, Middletown (CT) firefighters responded fora structure fire on Liberty Street. Mutual aid came from South Fire District Durham and Westfield forcity coverage.

Woburn (MA) firefighters arrived to find fire showing from the second floorof a multiple dwelling on Burlington Street. Companies stretched three handlines while the roof was opened up. Command struck a second alarm bringing mutual aid to the scene and to coverthe city. Companies made an aggressive interior attack and had the fire knocked down in a short amount of time.

Derby Fire Displaces 2 Families

At approximately 0900 on June 19, 2023, the Derby (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to Maple Avenue fora structure fire. First companies on scene found heavy fire in the rearof a 2-1/2 story wood frame. Upon entry, members encountered heavy fire on the second floorand attic. This fire brought mutual aid from Ansonia, Shelton, Seymour and Orange. Two families were displaced but there are no reports of injuries orcause.

WindsorLocks CO Activation

On the evening of July 5, 2023, the WindsorLocks (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to Hayes Road foran activated CO detector. Upon arrival, Captain LaPierre reported smoke coming from the eaves of the structure and had the call re-toned as a working fire. No injuries were reported and the occupant’s pets were safely removed from the structure. This incident reinforces the importance of having working CO and smoke detectors throughout yourhome.

Porch Fire Extends into Attic

At 1000 on July 31, 2023, the Waterbury (CT) Fire Department responded to a report of fire in a 21/2 story dwelling with multiple calls coming into 911. Upon arrival, crews had heavy fire from rear porches that extended into the attic. It took 30 minutes to get the fire undercontrol.

Fatal Fire in Palmer UnderInvestigation

Afire in a shed on West Ware Road in Palmer(MA) claimed a resident’s life, said PalmerFire Chief William J. Bernat Jr, Palme r Police Chief ChristopherJ. Burns, State Fire Marshal Peter Ostroskey, and Hampden County District Attorney Anthony D. Gulluni. The PalmerFire Department responded to the area of West Ware Road aftera passing motorist reported seeing smoke at about 1318. The first responding personnel found a shed fully involved nearthe rearof the residence, with fire threatening to spread to the residence and nearby woods. Palmerfirefighters immediately deployed an attack line to suppress the fire and called formutual aid from Warren, Ware, Bondsville, and Monson. Aresident who had been unaccounted forwas discovered deceased inside the shed. The Office of the Chief Medical Examinerwill determine the cause and mannerof his death. The fire is under investigation.

- Submitted by Jake Wark

- Fire News photo by Patrick Kerrigan

- Fire News photo by David Bowen

- Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com

- Fire News photo by Rick Kulmann

- Fire News photo by Coral Ruggiero

Fatality at Barnstead Blaze

New Britain 2nd Alarm

On March 13, 2023, Barnstead (NH) crews responded fora twoalarm fire. Firefighters arrived to find a single-story cape well involved. Neighbors alerted the firefighters that an elderly woman who lived alone was inside. They found the victim deceased after the fire was knocked down and a search was made. The NH State Fire Marshal’s office was investigating the fire.

- Fire News photo by Jay Heath

Firefighters operated at a second-alarm fire in New Britain (CT) on August 6, 2023.

- Fire News photo by Robert Brown

Nashua Pickup, Tractor-TrailerMVA

New Hampshire State Police were on the scene immediately after two vehicles collided on the northbound side of the Everett Turnpike in Nashua. Apickup truck and tractor-trailercollided nearExit 2. The tractor-trailerveered to the left and struck the guardrail, and rolled over. The pickup truck had damage on the driver’s side. Nashua Fire Rescue and AMR ambulance responded to the scene at about 0915. The NFR Special Hazards Unit was requested due to several different fluids leaking from the rolledovertruck. The drivers of both vehicles were RMA. D and R Towing arrived with a flatbed truck and removed the pickup from the scene. Kent’s Towing responded with several pieces of apparatus including a hazard mitigation truck. The roadway was closed forseveral hours and caused a significant backup of traffic.

Haddam Rollover

Haddam (CT) VolunteerFire Company responded to an MVA at 0545 on July 30, 2023. The call was dispatched as a rollover into the woods on Route 9 North between exits 15 and 19 in Haddam. Upon arrival, Connecticut State Police reported that the vehicle’s operatorwas not at the scene of the accident nor inside the vehicle. Firefighters used a thermal imaging camera to search the surrounding woods. In addition, CSPTrooperRyan Mara of CTState Police Troop D Danielson brought K9 Kash to the scene to assist in tracking the vehicle’s operator. During the investigation with the K9 unit, the vehicle’s ownerreappeared at the scene. The driverwas evaluated by HVFC EMS personnel and transported to Middlesex Hospital via Haddam Volunteer Ambulance Service.

Fall RiverCar Into House

On July 18, 2023, Fall River(MA) Engine 4, Ladder2, and Heavy Rescue 1 were dispatched to Oman Street fora report of a car into a house. When firefighters arrived, the single uninjured occupant had self-extricated, form the vehicle which was still in drive, and had sailed overthe front porch and into the home. Members began securing the vehicle and searching the house for any occupants and to assess damage to the structure. There were no injuries and command called forthe Building Inspectorto determine the structural damage.

- Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings

- Fire News photo by Olivia Drake

- Fire News photo by Ken Leger Southcoast-On Scene Photography

Total Loss in Lincoln Blaze

Lincoln (RI) Fire Alarm received calls fora dwelling fire on Great Road around 0145 on May 29, 2023. Stations 3, 2 and 5, and Rescue 1 responded on the first alarm with Engine 3 arriving to find heavy fire conditions from the Charlie side of a two-story woodframe. The fire had burned through an addition on the Charlie side with extension to the original residence. Engine 3 ordered a working fire and a second alarm as they stretched in. Crews entered the dwelling to begin primary searches as the home was known to be occupied. Searches proved to be negative. Companies aggressively engaged in an interiorattack with three handlines trying to quell the rapidly extending fire. Ladder2 members opened the roof creating an eruption of fire upwards into the night sky. Doing so, members on the interiorhad a moment of relief from the heavy heat so they could open up and extinguish the hidden pockets of fire. Command requested a third alarm forextra manpowerand coverage. The fire was brought undercontrol around 0430 hours. The house was considered a total loss. There were a couple of minorinjuries to firefighters.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

Gill WaterRescue

On the evening of July 12, 2023, Gill (MA) crews, along with multiple mutual aid agencies, responded to a report of a subject in the waterclinging to a buoy just before a dam. Afterseveral attempts they were able to safely remove the person from the buoys.

Tractor-TrailerRollover in Plympton

On July 31, 2023, Plympton (MA) Fire responded to a cranberry bog on Main St. fora tractor-trailerwhich rolled over into the bog. The driverself-extricated and was transported to the hospital with minorinjuries. Some fuel leaked into the cranberry bog, but the leak was contained by loads of dirt from a front-end loader, and also by leak control equipment carried by Plympton. DEPwas called to the scene to evaluate the leak.

Body Recovered from Piscataquog River

On July 7, 2023, Manchester(NH) Fire, EMS, and police were dispatched to the Electric Street boat ramp fora report that some boaters discovered a body in the Piscataquog River. Firefighters launched two boats and were directed to an area of the riverabout 350 yards from the ramp. Amale’s body was found and placed in one of the boats and brought to shore where police began their investigation. New Hampshire State Police and New Hampshire Marine Patrol were requested to the scene. The office of the Ne w Hampshire Chief Medical Examinerwas summoned and the body was removed by a local funeral home. It was unknown how long the body had been in the waterbut it appeared it had been there foran extended time. The waterlevel of New Hampshire rivers and lakes were very high due to several days of heavy rain throughout New Hampshire. - Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings

Waterbury House Fire

On June 8, 2023, Waterbury (CT) firefighters responded to Virginia Avenue fora house fire. Acolumn of smoke was seen by Engine 5 returning from a medical call. Firefighters arrived to heavy fire in the rearof a single-story house. The fire was knocked down in a few minutes and no injuries were reported.

Lincoln (RI) Stations 2 and 3, and Rescue 1 responded to the area of Jenckes Hill Road at WilburRoad fora reported two-carMVA rolloverwith possible entrapment and fire on July 27, 2023. Engine 3 arrived to find one caron its side leaning against a utility pole. There was no fire, entrapment orinjuries. Squad 2 used a shoring strut to stabilize the vehicle until the tow company arrived.

Abington MVA …and Then Some

On July 1, 2023, the Abington Fire Department responded to an MVAon Bedford Street. Units arrived and found an occupant trapped in the vehicle. Companies went to work and extricated the victim and transported the person to a local hospital. Ashort time afterthe initial MVA, anotherMVAwas reported with a carinto a pole on High Street. Mutual aid from Whitman was requested to that scene, as all of the otherAbington companies were tied up at the initial accident. Engine 243 arrived to find a single-vehicle crash with a carinto a pole. The occupant was still in the vehicle, and a doorpop was performed. The occupant was transported to the South Shore Hospital.

- Fire News photo by Bryan Favreau, Onscene Images

- Fire News photo by Rick Kulmann

- Fire News photo by John Sjostedt

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

- Fire News photo by Pat Travers

TankerTruck Testing

Weatogue/Simsbury (CT) VolunteerFire Department FirefighterMatt Pearce-Bristol (yellow shirt), Captain VictorCivitillo (blue wo rk (sweatshirt) and District Pumping Mechanic Dan Flanigan (blue work shirt) in the process of testing the tankertruck.

Boat Rescue Course forWindsorLocks

NorthEast Squad Concepts conducted a boat rescue course forthe Windsor Locks (CT) Fire Department overthe weekend of April 22 and 23, 2023. Evolutions included boat maneuvering and performing waterrescues from a boat. The day was perfect weatherforthe course, whereas following days featured the additional challenge of heavy rain.

- Fire News photo by Mark Grabowski

- Fire News photo by Coral Ruggiero

FOOLs Ocean State Truckin’Day

The New England FOOLS “Ocean State Truckin’” day took place in Union Fire District in South Kingston (RI) in heavy rain conditions, but instructors and students charged through, making the best of the day. The rain finally stopped after lunch making conditions a little betterforstudents. Students took part in multiple different stations including K12 saw, roof top ventilation, search and rescue/VES, can confidence, forcible entry and ground ladders. Students gained valuable knowledge from instructors at all the stations. Instructors were from NJ, NH, MA, RI, and CT. The event forthe day was led by Dana Potter. Great day of training foreveryone involved. - Fire News photos by John DeForest

MCI Drill in Paxton

MCI training was held in Paxton (MA) recently. The drill was put on forthe Disaster Medicine Fellowship at Beth Isreal Deaconess Medical Center. The Fellowship had to plan and execute an MCI drill as a final exam. Needless to say, they all passed with flying colors. The drill was centered around a simulated explosion in a medical building at the college. The drill tested the skills of numerous local and state agencies as well. - Fire News photos by Paul Shea

Providence 53rd Training Academy

The City of Providence (RI) Fire Department recently conducted their53rd training academy that consisted of lateral transfers from local careerfire departments.

- Fire News photos by Ken Labelle

New MVARescue Skills in Hartford

More than 25 first responders from the Hartford (CT) First Responder Emergency Extrication Program Department and surrounding areas donned their rescue gear on July 19, 2023, for a hands-on demonstration of the latest techniques in emergency vehicle extrication, preparing them to provide the best response for car accident victims in Hartford, all thanks to Airport Auto Body, GEICO Insurance, Genesis Rescue Systems and the National Auto Body Council® F.R.E.E. program.

Airport Auto Body in Hartford hosted first responders from the Hartford Fire Department at a special NABC F.R.E.E. education and guid-

ance program to help ensure Hartford drivers have the best prepared response in case of an accident.

The National Auto Body Council First Responder Emergency Education (FREE) program helps prepare local first responder teams to rescue accident victims from late-model vehicles. The program provides education and live demonstrations on working with high-strength steel, airbags, advanced restraint systems, onboard technology and safety around alternative fuel vehicles. Since it was founded, it has provided education for more than 5,000 first responders. - Submitted by Alison Ilg

Training Prescribed Burn in Brookfield

Aprescribed burn was conducted in Brookfield (MA) on June 2, 2023. The burn was hosted by the Massachusetts Wildlife Department. Crews from the Massachusetts DCR Fire Control, Albany Pine Bush Preserve as well as local firefighters assisted in the burn.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

Granville Trains at CTFire Academy

Granville (MA) Fire Department utilized drill night at the Conn ecticut Fire Academy fortraining recently. Crews worked on fire attack in the basement and upperflooras well as search and rescue. The training event was run by Jason Gilbert and Chris Wisneski. Command forthe training event was Deputy Fire Chief Steve Cook.

- Fire News photo by John Deforest

Hamilton’s Deputy Chief Kirby Brand Wraps Up a 40+ YearCareer

Hamilton’s (MA) Kirby Brand was recently acknowledged by fellow brothers and sisters of the Hamilton Fire Department. Deputy Brand was noticed forhis distinguished careerof almost 45 years of service to the town of Hamilton. Members got over100 people togetherto celebrate Brand’s career, by cooking a monstrous brunch and fed all that attended. Guests included firefighters from neighboring cities and towns, police, fire alarm and politicians. Dozens of friends and family members, along with the staff

of Kirby’s business (the Brand Company) were also present. Brand Company is well known (in thousands of firehouses forsupplying fire/EMS flashlights, batteries and survival equipment to the public safety sectorall overAmerica. Kirby gave selflessly to the community and served as a Deputy Chief as well as a part-time fire alarm operatorin town fordecades. He will always be remembered as a “fireguy’s fireguy!” Congratulations Kirby!

- Fire News photos by Glenn S. Preston

Merrimack 4th of July

spots

The rain didn’t detera huge crowd that came out to line the parade route forthe annual Fourth of July parade in Merrimack (NH). The parade began on Daniel WebsterHighway and continued down to Baboosic Lake Road and spanned formore than a mile. Just as the parade started the rain began to fall but very few people left the

they had scouted out. The rain moved out of the area Tuesday afternoon allowing a little time forpeople to dry off, and then attend the fireworks display that went off Tuesday night at the Merrimack High School.

- Fire News photos by Jeffrey Hastings

Remembering Cambridge’s Fallen

On June 11, 2023 (Firefighters’Memorial Day), the active members, retired members, and the friends and family members of the Cambridge (MA) Fire Department came togetherat the Firefighters Memorial in Cambridge Cemetery to remember those Cambridge firefighters who have passed away.

Haddam Station 3 Welcomes AngelRide Cyclists

On June 3, 2023, Haddam (CT) VolunteerFire Company welcomed several cyclists to Station 3 during the 20th annual AngelRide to benefit young burn survivors. The station served as a rest stop for bikers making the 60-mile trek. Members of Haddam VolunteerFire Company and the Haddam VolunteerFire Company Auxiliary offered the riders refreshments and encouragement during theirstop.

- Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan

- Fire News photo by Olivia Drake

The Fight Against PFAS in Turnout Gear

Ascreening of “Burned: Protecting the Protectors” was shown at the Hanover(MA) Theatre on June 11, 2023. Basically, the film is based on a WorcesterFirefighter(Paul Cotter) who developed cancer, whose wife (Diane) started a crusade to find out how he got the cancer. She ended up doing research and found there were PFAS in the firefighters’gearwhich was causing the cancer. At first, she was

shunned by the fire service, but within the past yearortwo new IAFFpresident Edward Kelly, a Boston native, listened and started to spread the word. The screening of the movie was attended by United States Representative Jim McGovern as well as lawyers who represent the IAFFin theirbattle against PFAS in firefightergea r.

- Fire News photos by Paul Shea

Brockton’s “The Rescue” Officially in Service

On the morning of June 21, 2023, the Brockton (MA) Fire Department put a new company in-service, “The Rescue.” The Rescue was officially placed into service aftera brief ceremony and open house forthe new company. The Rescue will be housed at Station 1 on Pleasant Street, along with Car56 (Deputy Chief), Ladder1, and Squad A. The Rescue is the 10th company staffed by the City of Champions, the first time this has been done since 1991. The Rescue will respond to all reported fires, MVAs with entrapment, elevatoremergencies and hazardous materials incidents in Brockton, and will also respond to regularruns in theirfirst-due district.

- Fire News photos by Pat Travers

Hanson’s Chief Jerome Thompson Retires

April 6, 2023, marked the end of a long firefighting careerforHanson (MA) Fire Chief Jerome Thompson. Well-wishers stopped by the Hanson Fire Station during the day to congratulate Chief Thompson who was working his last shift. Chief Thompson worked forthe Town of Hanson as a full-time firefighterfor30years, the last 16 years as the Chief of Department. Hanson’s Deputy Fire Chief Rob O’Brien is poised to take overas Fire Chief.

- Fire News photos by Pat Travers

Derry’s Battalion Chief Haggard Retires

Derry (NH) Battalion Chief Scott Haggart was honored by current and past firefighters recently, as he finished his last shift before retirement. The firefighters lined up inside the station as Haggart exited the station and shook hands, and gave emotional hugs.

Haggart has served the town of Derry for 28 years and has served in different fire and EMS fields since 1992. After he exited the station, he positioned himself in the passenger seat of Derry Fire Engine 2 and, with a police escort, was driven to his home in Chester where a large gathering of colleagues, friends and family awaited.

ADerry fire dispatcher recapped his career over the radio and thanked him for his service and contributions. Haggart took to the radio to share his appreciation for the

Commencement forthe Fall RiverFire Academy

town of Derry and his peers and then signed off the air for the last time.

- Fire News photos by Jeffrey Hastings

- Fire News photos by Shaun Shattuck

On June 30, 2023, the Fall River(MA) Fire Academy held commencement exercises forthe 32nd FirefighterRecruit Class graduation at the Kuss Middle School auditorium. Probationary Firefighters from

Fall River, Dighton and Taunton received theirpins and took their firefighteroath. Family, friends and fellow firefighters took part in the ceremony.

- Fire News photos by Ken Leger

How Convenient

The Salem (MA) Fire Department has a t-shirt and patch vending machine located inside fire headquarters, forvisitors who care to purchase an item.

Hartford First Responder Night

Southbridge Memorial Day Parade

On July 20, 2023, the Hartford (CT) Yard Goats hosted theirannual First ResponderNight. Honorguards from the Berlin Police Department, Ridgefield Police Department, and Connecticut Statewide HonorGuard presented the colors. Amoment of silence was held in memory of those who lost theirlives in the line of duty during the last year.

Mashpee Patch Redesign

The Mashpee (MA) Fire Department recently redesigned theirdepartment patch. Uniquely oriented on a “tombstone” shape, the patch features crossed fire axes, a traditional Maltese cross and the town’s new seal. The redesign pays homage to the department’s historical patches, dating back to the 1950s as well as the towns new symbolic Native American seal.

9th Annual Wells HarborFest

All divisions of Wells (ME) Emergency Services participated in the 9th Annual Wells HarborFest. Wells Fire Department had Engine 4, Tanker5, and Truck 6 on display. In addition, WFD set up a firefighterchallenge course forchildren. Wells Ocean Rescue presented a PWC rescue demo and allowed all to apply a tourniquet to a rescue dummy. York County Emergency Services Command 1 was also on hand. RailcarRescue, Maine attended with theirre-purposed Miami-Dade Ambulance.

Simsbury Senior Safety Seminar

- Photo courtesy of Lt. Tom Brophy

Southbridge (MA) firefighters proudly marching in their Memorial Day parade.

- Fire News photo by Bud Harris

- Fire News photo by Coral Ruggiero

- Fire News photo by Coral Ruggiero

- Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade

Chief Bardis sharing information about fire safety with Simsbury seniorcitizens at the annual pancake breakfast.

- Fire News photo by Mark Grabowski

23 Local Firefighters Graduate from Firefighting Academy

24 Local Firefighters Graduate from Massachusetts Firefighting Academy

State Fire Marshal Peter J. Ostroskey and Massachusetts Firefighting Academy Director Jeffrey P. Winn announced the graduation of 23 firefighters from the 50-day Career Recruit Firefighting Training Program.

The graduating firefighters of Class 311 represent the fire departments of Beverly, Blackstone, Concord, Hudson, Lexington, Methuen, North Andover, Phillipston, Salem, Somerville, Waltham, and Westford.

The MFAprovides recruit and in-service training for career, call, and volunteer firefighters at every level of experience, from recruit to chief officer, at campuses in Stow, Springfield, and Bridgewater.

- Submitted by Jake Wark

23 Local Firefighters Graduate from Firefighting Academy

State Fire Marshal Peter J. Ostroskey and Massachusetts Firefighting Academy Director Jeffrey P. Winn announced the graduation of 24 firefighters from the 50-day Career Recruit Firefighting Training Program.

The graduating firefighters of Class BW25 represent the fire departments of Barnstable, Bridgewater, Chatham, Duxbury, East Bridgewater, Eastham, Framingham, Hingham, Norwell, Peabody, Raynham, Rockland, Seekonk, Wellfleet, and Whitman.

The MFAprovides recruit and in-service training for Massachusetts firefighters at every level of experience, from recruit to chie f officer, at campuses in Stow, Springfield, and Bridgewater.

- Submitted by Jake Wark

26 Local Firefighters Graduate from Massachusetts Firefighting Academy

State Fire Marshal Peter J. Ostroskey and Massachusetts Firefighting Academy Director Jeffrey P. Winn announced the graduation of 23 firefighters from the 50-day Career Recruit Firefighting Training Program. The graduating firefighters of Class 312 represent the fire departments of Amesbury, Chelsea, Devens, Gardner, Manchester-by-the-Sea, Peabody, Swampscott, Watertown, and Winchester.

The MFAprovides recruit and in-service training for career, call, and volunteer firefighters at every level of experience, from recruit to chief officer, at campuses in Stow, Springfield, and Bridgewater.

- Submitted by Jake Wark

Hanson Promotions

State Fire Marshal Peter J. Ostroskey and Massachusetts Firefighting Academy Director Jeffrey P. Winn announced the graduation of 26 firefighters from the 50-day Career Recruit Firefighting Training Program.

The graduating firefighters of Class #S32 represent the fire departments of Chicopee, East Longmeadow, Easthampton, Franklin, Holyoke, Longmeadow, Newton, Oxford, Pittsfield, Southbridge, Turners Falls, and West Barnstable.

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

- Submitted by Jake Wark

On the evening of May 31, 2023, the Hanson (MA) Fire Department held a swearing-in ceremony for new Fire Chief Rob O’Brien and new Deputy Fire Chief Charley Barends. Chief O’Brien takes over for retired Chief Jerome Thompson, and Deputy Chief Barends will ta ke the spot vacated by Chief O’Brien.

Two new Lieutenants, Tyler Bryant and Tom ‘TJ’White have started in their new roles, filling spots vacated by Barends and retired Lieutenant Kevin Mossman. Aformal swearing-in for the Lieutenants is scheduled for a later date.

- Fire News photo by Pat Travers

ELECTRIC VEHICLE RESCUE RELEASES APHONE APP ATTHE 2023 FDIC EVENT

North America’s official phone app includes Emergency Response Guides (ERGs) for electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, and charging stations. Owned and operated by an American company, it was developed by a professional Firefighter/First Responder.

The Electric Vehicle Rescue (EVR) app includes all manufacturers’procedures to safely approach and work on electric and hybrid vehicles at the scene of an accident or fire.

Vehicle Specific Features Includes but not limited to:

1. Location of 1st, 2nd & 3rd Batteries

2. Location of Jacking Points to Avoid Crushing the Fuel Cell or High Voltage Wires

3. Location of High Voltage Disconnects or Cable Cut Area

4. Location of High Voltage Cables

5. Location of High Voltage Fuel Cell

Additional information can be found on the app.

Schedule Change forFirst Day

Co-founder and first responder Phil Scarf:

“The batteries are no longer just located under the hood like gas vehicles, every EVhas the location of their batteries in different locations and could take several minutes to find them along with high voltage cable cut locations. Every vehicle has different jacking points, with the high voltage battery usually located below the entire occupant compartment and it is crucial to know exact jacking locations to avoid puncturing a fuel cell which can lead to an unsafe situation for both occupants and first responders.”

The most common question we receive is how often is the data updated? Unlike traditional response guides, as soon as we receive the updates or the release of new vehicles the data is automatically updated in the app.

The EVRescue App is available for individual firefighters/first responders as well as all station apparatus iPads or Android tablets. To download the app go to EvRescueApp.com. Or the App Store/Google Play Store and search “EVRescue”

FIREHOUSE EXPO PREVIEW

Three groups of sessions will be offered between 0800-1230. There will be a break for lunch and then the opening ceremonies will begin at 1400., including awards and the keynote address. The day then will transition to the exhibit floor, where there will be a welcome reception, a Tailboard Talk and a roundtable.

New Classes

“Incident Command: Defining the Expectation,” “Engine Company Operations at Apartment Fires,” “RIT? FAST? RIC? WHO?”, "Flying into a New Era: Building a Drone Program and Utilization in the Fire Service.”

VolunteerDays

Firehouse Expo will offer special programs for volunteer firefighters with a special discounted rate of $75 registration for either Wednesday or Friday. And don’t miss “CPR for the Volunteer Fire Service,” “AFG Strategies for Success,”

Lessons Learned

Attendees of Firehouse Expo in 2022 requested more classes/speakers that concentrate on lessons learned and that p rovide

examination of close calls and fireground incidents. “Out of Air, Can YOU Make It to Safety?” and “I Was Not Ready for This!”

Pre-conference Workshops

Find the full list of pre-conference workshops here: firehouseexpo.com/2023/workshops.You must preregister for these four- and eight-hour workshops, so do it today.

NEWLOOK & SOFTWARE FOR FIRE RESCUE SYSTEMS

Fire Rescue Systems, a software company for the fire service, has a brand-new look to go along with their new modules; all to better serve fire departments like yours. The company was started in 1983 in Long Island, New York, and has helped hundreds of departments better manage their fire and rescue operations. Instead o f paying high fees for an all-in-one software program, Fire Rescue Systems offers various modules which you can bundle together. This allows you to pay for what you need, without the fluff, and makes it the perfection solution for fire departments of all si zes.

Some of the modules include Dispatch, Bulletin Board, NFIRS, Inventory, MDT, Roster and Attendance, Department Voting and a Mobile Responder Phone App. They also offer finger readers that integrate with other modules. All of the modules help you save time and increase efficiency. The company offers 24/7 tech support for all customers.

Fire Rescue Systems’brand-new look also includes an updated, easier-to-navigate website so you can quickly browse their avai lable modules and get the information you need to decide. For more information and to see their new website, go to firerescuesystems.co m or call 800-651-3059.

WindsorLocks Parade

Quincy Company 4

Back on the Books

On March 27, 1990, at 0800, Ladder 3 and Tower 1 (Ladder 4) of the Quincy Fire Department were “deactivated” due to budget cut s.

On July 1, 2023, at 0800, Quincy Fire Department’s Ladder Company 4 was placed back in service after being out of service since March 27 of 1990. Ladder 4 is stationed with Engine 6 in the Houghs Neck section of the city, and is also the first due Ladder Company to Engine Co. 8’s area. With the return of Ladder 4, Quincy now has 8 Engine Co’s ,4 Ladder companies and a Rescue Company. Still not back to 9 Engines, 5 Ladders and Rescue but making progress.

On hand were Mayor Thomas Koch, Councilor David McCarthy, Chief Joseph C Jackson, Jr.

- Fire News photos by Michael Worley

Fall RiverRemembers its Fallen

On June 1, 2023, Fall River(MA) firefighters gathered at the “Memorial forDeceased Members” fora solemn ceremony to remembertheirsacrifices. Family, of current and deceased members gathered to remembertheirloved ones and to pray forthe safety of all firefighters around the globe. Abell was rung foreach deceased memberand a wreath of flowers was placed on the Memorial while the flag was lowered to half-staff. Afterthe brief ceremony those in attendance retreated to a local restaurant fora nice brunch.

- Fire News photos by Ken Leger

In June, the WindsorLocks (CT) Fire Department held theirannual carnival and parade. - Fire News photos by Coral Ruggiero

Salem Fire Department “Witch City”

SPAAMFAA Convention

Plympton Chief

Silva Retires;

Chief Cheryl Davis Takes Over

On July 28, 2023, Plympton Fire Chief Stephen Silva retired after over 40 years of public service. He started as a Firefighter in Kingston, worked for Boston Medflight, owned his own ambulance service (Exodus Ambulance), Middleborogh Fire, and retired as Plympton Fire Chief. He will be working for MEMAin retirement.

On July 31, 2023, Captain Cheryl Davis was sworn in as the new Plympton Fire Chief. Chief Davis has worked for Plympton Fire for over 17 years, and previously worked for Fall River Fire as a Paramedic. Chief Davis was pinned by her father retired Norwell Firefighter Joe Davis. Chief Davis is the first female Plympton Fire Chief and first female Fire Chief in Plymouth County. Chief Davis is also the handler for Certified First Responder comfort K-9 Wilden. - Fire News photos by John Sjostedt

- Fire News photos by Lt. Tom Brophy

Photos from the SPAAMFAAnational convention held in Warwick (RI) on July 15, 2023.

- Fire News photos by Paul Shea

Up Close & Personal

Bridgeport Fire Department Rescue Company 5 Lieutenant Richard Mangiamele (center) seen with his crew (From left: ChaufferTom Dunlevy, FirefighterGioncarlos Aristy, Lieutenant Richard Mangiamele, FirefighterKeith Muratori, and FirefighterJames McMahon) on his last shift before retirement. He served 36 years with the Bridgeport (CT) Fire Department.

Manchester(NH) firefighters responded to Auburn Street fora second alarm fire in a 2-1/2 story duplex recently.

Weatogue/Simsbury (CT) VolunteerFire Department FirefighterMatt PearceBristol (yellow shirt), Captain Victor Civitillo (blue work sweatshirt) and District Pumping Mechanic Dan Flanigan (blue work shirt) in the process of testing the tankertruck.

MCI training was held in Paxton (MA) recently. The drill was put on forthe DisasterMedicine Fellowship at Beth Isreal Deaconess Medical Center. The Fellowship had to plan and execute an MCI drill as a final exam. Needless to say, they all passed with flying colors! The drill was centered around a simulated explosion in a medical building at the college. The drill tested the skills of numerous local and state agencies.

Mendon (MA) firefighters assisted the Uxbridge (MA) Fire Department at a second-alarm fire on Memorial Day 2023.

Norfolk, CTFire Chief Matt Ludwig

- Fire News photo by Ed Harvey

Aprescribed burn was held in Brookfield (MA) June 2, 2023. The burn was hosted by MAWildlife. Crews from the MA-DCR, Albany Pine Bush Preserve and local fire departments assisted.

Crews responded to a working fire in Spencer(MA) at the formerAhearn Equipment building. The fire was neara vent fora waste oil heaterand was quickly knocked down on June 7, 2023.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

FirefighterMargaret Carrigan, mother Sharon Carrigan and FirefighterAndrew Carrigan at the Cambridge (MA) Fire Department observance of Memorial Sunday on June 11, 2022.

Incident Commanderof a second alarm on Burlington Street, Captain Tommy Graham from the Woburn (MA) Fire Department.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Kerrigan

Athol (MA) Firefighter/ Bagpiper Todd Bowdridge at Athol Fire Department’s 4th annual memorial on July 23, 2023.

- Fire News photo by Bryan Favreau

- Fire News photo by Bud Harris

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

- Fire News photo by Jay Heath

- Fire News photo by Mark Grabowski

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

- Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan

- Fire News photo by FireGroundImages