Franklin Commercial Building Fire
East Haven Brush Fire
At around 0300, Franklin (CT) Fire was dispatched to Pond Road fora wires down call. Afterarriving in the area of Pond Road, they discovered a building fire in the rearyard of a large commercial building. Mutual aid was requested, and the fire intensified as companies arrived. Awatersupply via tankers was set up. The fire reached the propane tanks in the building and they started to vent. The building also had a large amount of chemicals inside and a large numberof small and medium explosions ocurred. Companies backed away from the building, just in time for one of the 30-pound propane tanks exploded and bounced off the rearof a tanker 200-plus feet away. Afterthe last explosion, crews regained control of the fire, and worked forseveral hours to bring it under-control. Local and State FMOs were investigating.
Just before 2130, on June 24, 2024 the East Haven (CT) Fire Department began receiving multiple calls fora brush fire on Prospect Place Extension. When companies arrived, they found heavy fire that was extending quickly from brush and endangering nearby homes. Homes and businesses in the area were evacuated, howeverno fire spread to any structures. Branford Fire responded as mutual aid and assisted in extinguishment.
- Fire News photo by Jack McCarthy, Fill The Box Photography
- Fire News photo by Robert Ladd, CFPA
Bruce Dr. 2nd Alarm Fireworks Fire
the Shelton (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to a structure fire on Bruce Drive during an intense thunderstorm.
See story on page 5
Boscawen
Saw Mill Fire
On June 24, 2024, a call came in for an outside fire in the woods off Route 4 in Boscawen (NH).
See story on page 8
Serving Fire & EMS Heroes Since 1973
FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher/CEO
TIM EDWARDS, Chief Operating Officer
GARYP. JOYCE, Editor
MYLES QUINN, Long Island Editor
MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production
CLIFFCHIESA, Art Director/Production Manager
BARBARACONNOLLY, Vice President National Sales
SUZANNE BANCROFT, Business Development Manager
BRYAN LOPEZ, Editorial Assistant
LYNN SEDLER, GREG JONES, Graphic Artists
DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor Emeritus
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
4-Alarm Fire
Georgetown (MA) Fire Department responded to a fatal four-alarm fire on East Main Street in Georgetown.
See story on page 11
Obituary
Orange’s
Kenneth Mitchell
See story on page 17
Fire, Police to the Rescue
Merrimack (NH) Fire Rescue and police responded to Executive Park Drive for a report of several ducklings in a storm drain.
See story on page 18
Springfield’s David A. Wells Calls it a Career
Deputy David A. Wells retired after 36 years of dedicated service to the Springfield (MA) Fire Department on May 3, 2024.
See story on page 25
pages 12
pages 19-21
page 22
page 24
page 27
ALAN BRACKETT, AMANDACARMODY, THOMAS CARMODY, OWEN CARRIGAN, KEVIN CZARZASTY, JOHN DEFOREST, TIM DELANEY, ROB DILLON, PATRICK DOOLEY, DOUG DOW, OLIVIADRAKE, GLENN DUDA, LIZ FEITELBERG, JIM FORTIN, JR., SEAN FREIMAN, JOHN HANLEY, BUD HARRIS, ED HARVEY, JEFFREYHASTINGS, STEPHEN HESS, MIKE IPPOLITO, DORRANCE “DOC” JOHNSON, RICK KULMANN, KEN LABELLE, ROBERTLADD, MICHAELLAPRADE, JACK MCCARTHY, SCOTTLAPRADE, PAULLAROCHELLE, JR., KEN LEGER, KEITH MURATORI, BOB MYERS, RICK NOHL, BILLNOONAN, PETER OSTROSKEYJR., CHRIS PALMER, JIM PERUTA, PETER POZERSKI, GLENN PRESTON, ROB REARDON, DICK SCIALABBA, PAULSHEA, JOE SHEFER, RICK SUSI, JON TENCA, PATTRAVERS, DEVON WHALEN, KEVIN WHITE COPYRIGHT2024, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEWYORK. ALLRIGHTS RESERVED FOR MORE INFORMATION, (631) 776-0500 Advertising: Ext3, Editorial: Ext 281 or LI@firenews.com
Reaching 17 States with 14 Editions
Long Island, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, Kentucky, Maryland, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, S. Carolina, Virginia, Washington DC, West Virginia, and Wildwood, NJ
Proud Member Of:
Letters to the Editor, byline articles, and columns represent the opinions of the writers and photographers and are not necessarily the views of the Fire News. We reserve the right to edit all of the above. We are not responsible for errors in advertisements beyond the cost of advertising space. Copy submitted is subject to editing for space requirements. The placing of an advertisement in this publication does not constitute endorsement. Contents are copyrighted. Editorial and advertising copy cannot be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Fire News is published monthly by Fire News Inc, with corporate offices at 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY11713.
OSHA1910.156 Update
As of July 22, 2024, the comment period for the proposal by OSHAto amend its Fire Brigade Standard under 29 CFR Section 1910.156 has come to an end, with 3765 comments filed. The proposed amendment involved a comprehensive rewrite of the 1980 standard looking to establish a new Emergency Response Standard. If the proposed standard is implemented as posted in the National Register, these new regulations will have a severe and costly negative impact on both career and volunteer fire departments, EMS responders and other specialized units in New York and across the nation.
The fire service has highly stressed that the services are not opposed to the rules addressing first responder safety, however the proposed regulations will require an increase of 2 ½ times to the hours required for basic firefighter training. Many of the requirements for specific training classes are not available to local departments and will take extensive time to implement. Presently most fire officers and chiefs do not meet the new standards and would not be qualified to hold their positions. These leaders will not be able to receive
the needed training within OSHA’s two-year implementation schedule.
Additionally, the regulations address changes to firefighter medical screenings, new apparatus and equipment, 10-year Personal Protective Equipment replacement, a focus on respiratory protection, more inspections, more paperwork, training requirements that will put an undue burden on any members’time commitments and dramatically increase insurance cost. These regulations will greatly affect all recruitment and retention programs. Specifically, the requirement to replace front-line fire apparatus every 15 years, at a cost between $800K to $1.5 million for a new engine or over $2 million for a ladder truck. Apparatus manufacturers can now take up to three to four years for delivery which make this regulation nearly impossible to meet for most jurisdictions.
Many other mandates will greatly increase the cost and create a severe financial burden of providing fire protection services on local fire departments, the states and local governments, small cities, villages and fire districts. There are many additional operational,
By Myles Quinn,LIEditor
administrative and fiscal challenges. These major changes will increase taxes to comply with the new rules. These regulations could cause the operations of smaller fire departments to shutter and there could be imposed fines, citations and civil liability exposures should an injury or death occur.
Many members of our Congressional delegations and our US Senators have expressed support to achieve a compromise on these proposed regulations. Though an update was needed, these regulations are burdensome and overwhelming to an already struggling and overtaxed Fire and EMS Services. The Services hope that OSHAwill review the comments provided and modify the regulations they are proposing.
OSHAhas just recently posted that they are scheduling an informal, virtual, public hearing on its proposed rule “Emergency Response Standard.” Apublic hearing will begin on November 12, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. Eastern Time. As additional information on these hearing is made available, we will post and notify you.
Bruce Dr. 2nd Alarm Fireworks Fire
At approximately 1845 on June 22, 2024, the Shelton (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to a reported structure fire on Bruce Drive during an intense thunderstorm in the area. First companies on scene found heavy fire in the garage of a 1-1/2 story Cape loaded with massive amounts of fireworks that were going off as members tried to push into the structure. Fortunately, all family members along with theirdog made it to safety before crews’arrival. The State Fire Marshal and ATFare investigating this fire.
- Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com
South Windsor RVs on Fire
On July 11, 2024, at 0418, South Windsor(CT) firefighters responded to fire in fourRVs burning on theirarrival. Nine vehicles were damaged ordestroyed by the fire.
- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
Woonsocket
4-Alarmer
Route 8 CarFire
Around 1000 hours on the morning of May 23, 2024 the Weymouth Fire Department responded to Route-8 southbound nearRoute-18 fora reported carfire. Engine-3 arrived via the northbound lane to find a well-involved passengervehicle. Aline was stretched from the northbound lanes to the Southbound lanes while traffic was stopped by the Massachusetts State Police. The heavy fire was quickly knocked down with one handline. A Braintree engine responded to the scene, but was delayed by heavy traffic conditions due to the carfire. They also deployed a handline and assisted with wetting down. No injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by Pat Travers
Companies responded to a fire on Logee Street in Woonsocket (RI) recently. Crews arrived to heavy flames coming from the second- and third-floor porch and windows and a second alarm was struck. The fire spread quickly and hoarding conditions in the third-floorapartment made it difficult to fight. Third and fourth alarms were struck, bringing in more than 40 firefighters from several area departments. It took about an hourto bring the fire undercontrol. All tenants were outside by the time crews got to the scene. Two people suffered minorinjuries, while a third person and two firefighters were treated forheat exhaustion. Two cats were rescued but 10 perished. - Fire News photo by Matt Gregoire
Hot Fight in New Haven
Just after1900 on April 15, 2024, New Haven (CT) firefighters responded to Dixwell Avenue for multiple reports of a house on fire. Engine 6 arrived to heavy fire showing from the A/B cornerof a 2-1/2 story wood residence. Fire had begun to spread from the second floorup to the attic and first arriving companies made an aggressive interiorattack. Asecond alarm was called by Car34 due to the large volume of fire and due to the humid temperature firefighters were facing. Multiple handlines were stretched, however, firefighters still had heavy fire conditions in the attic. Command ordered all companies to evacuate the building and moved to a defensive attack. The incident went to a third alarm to assist in relief efforts. Firefighters were on scene forseveral hours before placing this incident undercontrol. Several firefighters were taken to the hospital as well as checked out on scene.
Train Fire in Worcester
Worcester(MA) firefighters were working an outside fire along the tracks when a train hauling construction debris pulled up on fire. There were also a couple of cars on fire. Firefighters used towerladders to extinguish the fire.
- Fire News photo by Paul Shea
- Fire News photo by Jack McCarthy (Fill The Box Fire Photography)
Garage Fire in Amherst
Amherst (NH) Fire Dispatch received a call of a reported structure fire on Waterview Drive. As crews responded, they were advised that a vehicle was on fire in a detached garage. Responders arrived and found heavy fire in the garage, which was quickly spreading, and requested a second alarm. One vehicle in the garage was fully engulfed in fire, and firefighters cut through the garage doorand attempted to knock down the fire. The garage roof was attached to the house, and fire scorched the cornerof the house but was primarily concentrated in the two-bay garage. Firefighters cut parts of
the garage roof to access the fire in the roofline. AMilford firefighterrescued a cat and brought it to the ownerat the scene. Crews entered the house and confirmed there was smoke and high levels of carbon monoxide from the fire, but there was no fire damage. The fire was brought undercontrol in about 90 minutes and brought mutual aid from several neighboring towns forwater, manpower and station coverage. The fire destroyed a Corvette, and a Camaro was damaged by smoke and water.
- Fire News photos by Jeffrey Hastings and Patrick Kerrigan
Boscawen
Saw Mill Fire
On June 24, 2024, a call came in foran outside fire in the woods off Route 4 in Boscawen (NH). On arrival firefighters arrived only to find the Colby Saw Mill fully involved. Asecond alarm was transmitted and special call forConcord’s TowerLadder.
- Fire News photo by Jay Heath
All Horses Saved at Templeton Barn Fire
At 2108 on May 30, 2024, Templeton (MA) Fire Department and Templeton Police ,were dispatched to Patriots Road fora reported structure fire. Upon arrival, police units reported a horse stable and barn were fully involved with the fire extending to a 2-1/2 story wood frame house. Fire units arrived and requested a third alarm. Ultimately, the blaze would reach an equivalent of five alarms. Bringing in mutual aid from Gardner, Phillipston, Hubbardston, Winchendon, Westminster, Royalston, Athol, Barre, Ashburnham and Fitchburg. Strong work by all including Templeton Control, Templeton CERT, Templeton ACO and all the volunteers who helped with the horses. There were no injuries and all 21 horses were accounted for.
- Fire News photo by Bryan Favreau
Nice Save in Waterbury
On May 25, 2024, Waterbury (CT) firefighters responded to Hillside Avenue fora house fire. They were met with heavy fire showing from a 2-1/2 story dwelling and a second alarm was struck. One victim was pulled from a window by a ladderwith no injuries reported. Firefighters went to defensive attack shortly afterarrival as the house became fully involved with a partial roof collapse.
- Fire News photo by Rick Kulmann
Fast Work in Ayer
Ayer(MA) firefighters were dispatched to Washington Street for smoke in the building caused by a lightning strike. The chief of department arrived and reported fire showing from the attic in the rearof the multi-dwelling. Command struck a working fire bringing mutual aid to the scene and to coverthe town. Companies made an aggressive interiorattack and had the fire knocked down in a short amount of time. - Fire News photo by Patrick Kerrigan
Fast Stop in Wolcott
On June 16, 2024, Wolcott (CT) firefighters responded to a working fire in a single-story house called in by a town fire marshal who was driving by. No injuries were reported and the fire was knocked down in a few minutes.
- Fire News photo by Rick Kulmann
ManchesterFirefighters Battle
2-Alarmer
Total Loss in East Longmeadow
Concord Responds to 4-Alarm Fire
Fall RiverBakery Fire
Around
West Haven 2-Alarmer
Nice Stop by Danvers
Firefighters arrived to a single-family house fully engulfed in fire, and were advised there were occupants still in the building.
- Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
1730 on June, 29, 2024, Fall River(MA) firefighters responded to the Gold Medal Bakery fora still alarm.
- Fire News photo by Ken Leger
East Longmeadow (MA) firefighters were dispatched by Westcomm Regional Dispatch at approximately 2043 to Hunting Road fora structure fire.
- Fire News photo by John DeForest
West Haven (CT) Engine 21 responded fora report of smoke in the area of Frontage Road on June 10, 2024.
- Fire News photo by Glenn Duda AllHandsWorking
Chief Thomas Judge reported that the Concord (MA) Fire Department responded to a four-alarm fire in a large home on June 18, 2024.
- Photo courtesy of Concord FD
On a June day, with temps nearing 95 degrees, Danvers (MA) Fire companies responded to a building fire in The Port section of the town.
- Fire News photo by Glenn Preston
WaterSupply Problematic
All Town of Montville (CT) stations and mutual aid was dispatched to Route-163, for a commercial building fire. Arriving crews reported heavy smoke showing, from a large single-story metal clad 250 x 100 foot building. Crews placed several lines in operation and several roll-up doors had to be forced open. The building contents from the local scrap yard was knocked down in about 30 minutes, but crews operated fora couple of hours to remove remaining material. The area has limited watersupply, so tankers had been requested and two engines companies set up a draft in the small river behind the building.
Fatal 4-Alarm Fire
- Fire News photo by Robert Ladd, CFPA
Georgetown (MA) Fire Department responded to a fatal fouralarm fire on East Main Street in Georgetown on the night of June 22, 2024. The cause was thought to be electrical ormechanical failure involving a small refrigerator. One woman was rescued from the second floor, but died at the hospital the following morning.
- Submitted by Tom Zuppa
Controlled Burn of Fireworks House
On June 27, 2024, the CTState Bomb Squad, along with ATF, CT State Fire Marshal, Shelton Fire Marshal, and the Shelton (CT) Fire Department conducted a controlled burn of a home on Bruce Drive. Officials deemed the leveling of the home by fire would be the safest way to mitigate the dangerposed by many unburned and unstable fireworks that survived the fire that ran through this same home five days earlieron June 22 during a thunderstorm. Cause of that fire is still underinvestigation, but firefighters had to deal with
Looking Back
Uxbridge - 2007
On July 21, 2007 at 0415, nearly 40 cities and town’s departments worked what became a 10+ alarm at the Bernat Mill Fire in Uxbridge (MA). Crews worked forovera week hitting hot spots in the 350,000 square-foot mill. Overa dozen business that occupied the mill were destroyed.
- Fire News photo by Matt Gregoire
massive amounts of fireworks exploding while battling the blaze. Neighbors were notified of the controlled burn event and told to shelterin place orevacuate from the morning until about 1600. The homes to eitherside of the house were protected by waterstreams and plywood. The safety checks started at around 0700 and the home was lit off at about noon. The Shelton Police Department have mentioned that they expect to make an arrest in this case.
- Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com
3 alarms in Lawrence (MA) on February 11, 1991.
Fire
-
News photo by Scott LaPrade
Extrication, Medevac at TractorTrailerOverturn
Nashua (NH) firefighters were dispatched to a reported tractor trailerrolloveron the F.E. Everett Turnpike early on July 1, 2024. En route, companies were informed that the tractortrailerwas in fact an oil tankerthat had rolled overand the driverwas trapped inside. Companies arrived and immediately began extricating the trapped victim. Command requested an extra engine and ladder and the Special Hazards to the scene to start controlling leaks. Due
to the injuries of the trapped driver, a helicopterwas landed on the highway fortransport. The patient was extricated and transported to a trauma centervia the Medflight helicopter. Companies remained on scene foralmost 11 hours while the oil was pumped off and the truck was righted and towed away.
- Fire News photos by Patrick Kerrigan and Jeffrey Hastings
Double Pin Job in Preston
Preston (CT) Fire Department responded to an MVAwith entrapment on June 28, 2024. Units found three vehicles involved, one being a dump truck. The dump truck was in the woods 50 yards from the othertwo vehicles involved. The driverof the dump truck was pinned, as well as the driverof a black sedan. Squad-Aand
Prolonged Extrication in Waterbury
Engine-2 from the City of Norwich were requested on mutual-aid. All parties were transported to Backus Hospital in Norwich. The investigation was being handled by the Connecticut State Police. - Fire News photo by Craig Maerkel
Fall River
Rolloverand
Extrication
On the afternoon of July 14, 2024, Fall River(MA) Fire, police and paramedics responded to the intersection of Tremont and Pine streets foran MVAwith a rolloverand entrapment. Heavy Rescue 1 and Engine 2 arrived and went right to work stabilizing the vehicle while medics attempted to enterthe vehicle to begin patient care. Cutters and spreaders were used to access the driverand extricate the patient. Within minutes the patient was on a backboard and loaded into a waiting medical rescue for treatment and transport. - Fire News photo by Ken Leger
On June 6, 2024, Waterbury (CT) firefighters responded to Route 8 north at exit 30 foran MVAwith entrapment. Upon arrival they had a utility work truck versus a guardrail on the median side of the highway with the drivertrapped at the chest and heavy intrusion on the driver’s side. It took exactly an hourto extricate the man who had serious injuries.
- Fire News photo by Rick Kulmann
Obituary
Orange’s Kenneth Mitchell
The Orange Volunteer Fire Department today announced the death of one of its active members, Kenneth Mitchell, 71. Apast captain with the department, Mitchell died Tuesday after suffering a medical emergency while driving his car on Route 1 in Orange. He was recently honored for 50 years of service to the department.
“Kenny was a firefighter’s firefighter,” said Chief Vaughan Dumas. “He remained an active firefighter in Orange as well as serving with departments in Ansonia and Derby. He also served on numerous organizations that help train firefighters and establish practices and procedures that helped make Connecticut’s fire departments among the best. His loss will be felt professionally and personally.”
Mitchell, a second-generation firefighter, was sworn into the Orange Volunteer Fire Department on Oct. 11, 1973. He rose to the rank of Captain. He served as chair of the Carnival Committee and as a Training Officer. As a member of the apparatus specification committee, Mitchell helped build and welcome the department’s first ladder truck in 1996.
He served as a past Captain of the Webster Hose, Hook and Ladder Company 3 of Ansonia; and a past Chief Driver for the
Paugassett Hook and Ladder Company 4 in Derby. He was the current President of Valley Fire Chiefs Association, Chair of the Fire School Board of Directors, past Vice President of the Connecticut State Firefighters Association and a longtime member of the New Haven County Chiefs Association.
Mitchell is credited with modernizing fire training in Orange and the Lower Naugatuck Valley. He helped craft rules that allowed Orange to maintain a full roster of volunteers by allowing some out-of-town firefighters and helped with other innovations that kept the Orange department in its high state of readi-
ness. He also had a reputation as a mentor to younger firefighters.
Orange benefited from Mitchell’s service in many other ways. He served as a supernumerary police officer as well as a school bus driver. He also was a member of several other local service organizations.
Mitchell leaves behind his wife, Kim; a son, Kenneth III; a daughter, Kara; and his mother, Jean. He also had several grandchildren. He is predeceased by his father, past Orange Fire Chief Ken Mitchell, Sr. - Submitted by Doug Fenichel
Fire, Police to the Rescue
Merrimack (NH) Fire Rescue and police responded to Executive Park Drive fora report of several ducklings in a storm drain. Firefighters could hearthe ducklings in two different storm drains that were neareach other. Firefighters removed the grates and lowered a ladderto allow a firefighterto enterthe storm drain. Crews used buckets to try to scoop the duckling from the murky waterin the drain. As crews worked the ducks used a pipe to continue to move from storm drain to storm drain. Adecision was made to get some popcorn from the nearby Apple Cinemas and tried to lure the ducklings to them. The apparent motherof the ducklings watched from a nearby parking lot and didn’t appearto be happy until some of the ducklings started to emerge. As the ducklings were brought up they were released to the area where the motherencouraged them to make theirway to the nearby woods. Firefighters and police officers worked foroveran hourto perform the rescue.
- Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
Hoarding Complicates Response
On June 14, 2024, Worcester(MA) Police and EMS responded to a house on Southbridge Street foran emotionally disturbed person harming himself. Police arrived to find smoke in the residence and a working fire with hoarding conditions.
- Fire News photo by Paul Shea
Person Found on MBTATracks
Around 1200 on the, June 2, 2024, the Whitman (MA) Fire Department responded to the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) Station on South Avenue, fora request from the police with a medical emergency on the tracks. Crews arrived to find a patient halfway between South Avenue and Essex Street along the tracks. Firefighters walked out to the patient with theirequipment while police officers were already attempting to treat the patient. With access difficult, command requested Abington Fire to respond with theirUTVto assist with moving the patient to the awaiting ambulance. Whitman struck a box formanpower, as all units were committed on-scene. The patient was treated and removed from the tracks utilizing both the UTVand manpower. The patient was transported to the South Shore Hospital. - Fire News photo by Pat Travers
Acetylene Explosion in Vehicle Injures 1 Person
One person was seriously injured afteran acetylene explosion in his car, said Holden (MA) Fire Chief Russell Hall, Holden Police Chief Timothy J. Sherblom, and State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine. The Holden Fire Department and Holden Police Department responded to Brattle Street following 9-1-1 calls foran incident involving a motorvehicle. On arrival, they observed a carthat had sustained catastrophic damage and an adult male whom neighbors had pulled from beneath it. That man was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries. The blast did not cause any significant fire damage. Its origin is being investigated by the Holden Fire Department, Holden Police, and State Police assigned to the State Fire Marshal’s office. Based on interviews and evidence at the scene, they have collectively determined that the man stored an acetylene tank in the trunk of his vehicle, where it appears to have leaked while parked overnight. While the exact ignition source remains unknown, investigators believe it was accidental.
- Submitted by Jake Wark
Canton Trains with a Live Burn at Fire School
Canton (CT) firefighters made the trip up to the Hartford County Regional Fire School on the campus of the Connecticut Fire Academy in WindsorLocks recently fora live burn in the “B” building. Firefighters did basement fires, second-floorfires and search and rescue. They also worked on positioning ground ladders on the exteriorof the building. The live burn was overseen by instructorJason Gilbert. Canton Captain Matt Bilts ran the drill and was overseen by Canton Chief Jon Gotaski.
- Fire News photo by John DeForest
New Engine for Arlington
The Arlington (MA) Fire Department put a 2024 E-One Typhoon engine in service on July 12, 2024, as Engine 2 at the Highland Fire Station. The new engine has a 1500 gpm pump and a 530-gallon watertank. All Arlington firefighters were trained on the new engine’s pump panel and the deck gun, before it was put in service. The training was conducted by Captain Martin Conroy, the Department Training Officer.
- Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan
Active ShooterDrill
On June 10, 2024, the drill, hosted by the Worcester(MA) County Sheriff’s Office, was put on by Beth Israel Deaconess DisasterMedical Fellowship. Local mutual aid partners participated, as did two Lifeflight helicopters.
Orange Hosts WaterShuttle Training
On June 5, 2024, the Orange (MA) Fire Department hosted a joint watershuttle training with New Salem, Warwick, Erving and Wendall Fire Departments. Members trained in watershuttle and
surpression.
- Fire News photos by Paul Shea
carfire
- Fire News photo by Bryan Favreau, Onscene Images
Lost Acres Trains with CarFire Prop Training
Lost Acres (Granby, CT) firefighters trained at the Connecticut Fire Academy in 90-degree heat working with the propane carfire prop. Crews worked on attack line, back up line, opening the car hood, opening the driver’s door, advancing the line and most importantly team work. Some of Lost Acres youngermembers, cadets, gained valuable knowledge and experience on the attack line as well. The drill was overseen by Chris Wisneski from HCRFS. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
WorcesterAirport’s Triennial Drill
The drill is held to test first responders every three years. Abus simulated a plane being towed by a tug which caught on fire. Local mutual aid departments (MA) as well as private ambulance companies participated in the drill. - Fire News photo by Paul Shea
Fall River Memorial
On Sunday, June 9, 2024, Fall Riverfirefighters and theirfamilies gathered at the memorial to deceased Fall RiverFirefighters to rememberour fallen brothers. Members marched to the memorial where prayers were offered by Chaplain FatherMichael Racine and remarks were given by Fire Chief Jeff Bacon. Abell was rung as each name was read and a wreath of flowers was laid at the foot of the monument. Many family members of the deceased firefighters were in attendance as well as two great-grandsons, current firefighters forthe city, who participated in the ceremony. - Fire News photo by Ken Leger
Make-a-Wish New Hampshire and IAFF856
Help a Wish Come True
Manchester (NH) firefighters from the International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) 856 came together to support a young child who was granted a wish from Make-A-Wish New Hampshire. The child, who lives on the west side of Manchester, was recently granted the wish of a new pool, which Empire Pool recently installed. Off-duty firefighters came together to upgrade the experience built a deck on the side of the pool, and provided the electricity needed for the mechanical parts of the pool.
More than a dozen current and retired firefighters from IAFF 856 started the deck early morning at the child's home. Crews began cutting the lumber provided at a reduced rate by Mast Road Lumber. One Source Construction LLC, owned by firefighter Craig Robichaud, donated its time as the contractor, helping coordinate the team of experienced carpenters. All the fire-
fighters donated their time free of charge.
By midday, the crews took a short break for lunch provided by Wrap City and then got back to work, finishing the project by early afternoon. Firefighter Mike Meehan, a licensed electrician, donated all the electrical services for the installation at the house.
Every year, members of IAFF 856 raise funds and offer services that support Manchester families.
Make-A-Wish New Hampshire is a nonprofit organization dedicated to granting the wishes of children diagnosed with critical illnesses across the state. Since its inception, it has been committed to bringing hope, strength, and joy to these courageous children and their families during challenging times.
- Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
Focusof-the-Month
Rapid Response Vehicle. ESI Apparatus has introduced a compact rapid response unit built on a 5.5 foot pickup truck platform. This smaller yet robust unit offers enhanced accessibility to equipment and superior maneuverability. The enclosed storage area features an ergonomic design, ensuring water resistant and highly secure storage capabilities. Moreover, this unit is customizable to suit various mission requirements, ensuring flexibility and adaptability in diverse operational scenarios. For additional information please call ESI Equipment, Inc., at (800) 5748228 or visit www.esiequipment.com
The PATENTED RollNRACK System is fire fighter designed to streamline hose management with a priority on safety and efficiency. The battery operated Power Roller traverses grass, gravel and dirt while it drains & rolls 100 of LDH in under 30 seconds! Capacity is 5,000’. Load from the unit or with the included GO-Pack. Two firefighters load hose rolls from the collapsible GOPack while the Power Roller is being operated. Simultaneous operations get your fire fighters back in service sooner. An extra battery pack/charger and 2.5”/3” jaws are included. Any department can be safer and work smarter. Made in the USA. Contact RollNRack, LLC, 262363-2030.
The A/B Trauma Kit is a portable first aid breathing and bleeding control kit. It contains essential and proven medical equipment from SAMS Medical, a trusted industry name designed to limit blood loss in emergency and traumatic situations. The Components are all housed in the versatile and proven responder-designed X-Pouch Bag by Junkyard Dog Industries, which you can wear or carry however you prefer. The A/B Trauma Kit convenient for working events or everyday preparedness. For more information visit www.JYDIND.com or call 1-800-574-8228.
19 Local Firefighters Graduate from Firefighting Academy
Graduates of Class #S37 Represent Nine Massachusetts Fire Departments.
25 Local Firefighters Graduate from Fire Academy
Graduates of Call/VolunteerClass 113 Represent 18 Communities.
Graduates of Class BW30 Represent Nine Massachusetts Fire Departments.
31 Local Firefighters Graduate from Firefighting Academy
Graduates of Class 321 Represent 14 Massachusetts Fire Departments. - All submitted by Jake Wark
Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards $1.6 Million in Fire Safety Grants
More than 200 Local Fire Departments Receive
The Healey-Driscoll Administration announced that 214 municipal fire departments across Massachusetts will share $1.6 million in competitive grants to support fire and life safety education for school-age children and older adults.
Since 1995, the Department of Fire Services’Student Awareness of Fire Education (SAFE) grant program has supported firefighter-educators who deliver age-appropriate fire safety education to kids and teens across Massachusetts. In that time, the number of children who die in fires has dropped to historically low levels, from two dozen or more per year to zero for nearly three consecutive years.
“The SAFE grants have been helping local fire departments deliver life-saving lessons to Massachusetts’young people for nearly 30 years,” said Governor Maura Healey. “This year’s awards continue that legacy of fire safety education for our most vulnerable residents and their families. Our Administration is committed to helping every community protect its residents through public safety programs like this one.”
In 2014, DFS launched the Senior SAFE program, which is geared toward another vulnerable population - older adults, who
face a disproportionate risk of death or serious injury in a fire.
“Senior SAFE connects firefighter-educators with senior centers, councils on aging, and other community-based resources in a unique state-local partnership,” said Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll. “Effective safety education, smoke and carbon monoxide alarm installation, and other grant-funded services are helping to keep our seniors safe at home.”
In FY24, 214 municipal fire departments will split $1,138,565.58 in SAFE funding and/or $492,179.29 in Senior SAFE funding. Another 12 departments will share funding for regional SAFE and/or Senior SAFE programs.
“Fire safety education is a smart investment in the safety of our residents and the livability of our communities,” said Secretary of Public Safety and Security Terrence Reidy. “Children and older adults are historically the most at risk in a fire, but the SAFE and Senior SAFE grants are helping to provide them with the tools to protect themselves and their families.”
“I’m deeply grateful to the trained firefighter-educators who are the backbone of the SAFE and Senior SAFE programs,” said State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine.
Northwood Gets New (to them) Aerial
Chief Tetreault and the Northwood (NH) Fire Department recently took delivery of a 2010 Ferrara 77-foot aerial. The unit was previously in service in Jacksonville Beach, Florida as Quint 11. Ladder3 is equipped with a 77-Smeal ladder, 500-gallon watertank, 1500 gpm Waterous pump and a full complement of ground ladders. The unit was sold by The Fire Truck Centerin Levittown, PA.
- Submitted by Mark Tetreault
“They’ve reached hundreds of thousands of youngsters and seniors with lessons that have prevented untold tragedies. I truly believe these grants are a key factor in making Massachusetts one of the most firesafe states in the nation.”
- Submitted by Jake Wark
Orange FirefighterHailed as a Hero for Role in Rescuing 13-Year-Old Boy
Tom Bartiss has responded to more than his share of emergency calls as a member of the Orange (CT) and West Haven (CT) fire departments, but emergencies were the furthest thing from his mind as he and his wife relaxed in Mexico. But when he saw a boy in trouble by the resort swimming pool, there was no hesitation.
“When you’re trained, you’re trained,” he said, recounting the story.
Bartiss, an active firefighter and chaplain of the Orange Volunteer Fire Department, was on vacation with his wife, Ann, at a resort outside of Cancun, Mexico. The pair was enjoying dinner when Ann noticed “a commotion” outside by the pool.
“My wife said there’s little feet out there and they’re working on him,” recalled Bartiss. That’s when instinct kicked in and Bartiss dashed to the child’s side. Another bystander had just started CPR.
“I said you do compressions and I’ll get the breaths in,” he recalled. “I kept looking at his eyes. They were almost normal. I said we’ve got
a chance.”
Bartiss said he and the woman did CPR on the child for about 20 minutes. At times, the child seemed to moan, but there was no pulse. They continued compressions and rescue breathing.
Finally, a doctor and a pediatric ambulance arrived. An AED indicated no shock needed. The doctor and other emergency personnel began administering medications to the child. Finally, the AED indicated it was time to shock the child. After two shocks, the team found a pulse. The ambulance whisked the child away to a pediatric hospital in Cancun. Bartiss noted that the city has very modern medical and emergency medical facilities.
Three days later, the child was back at the resort.
“If that woman wasn’t there and started CPR before I did, I don’t think he would have made it,” said Bartiss. “I was just in the right place at the right time. I’m so grateful I was there. I hope I gave the kid a long, good life. God definitely has a plan.”
- Photo courtesy of Orange FD
Annual Simsbury Duck Races
The Simsbury (CT) annual duck race was held on the Farmington Riveron May 24, 2024. Simsbury firefighters and EMTs attend to a patron of the Annual Simsbury Duck Races on the Farmington River.
- Fire News photo by Mark Grabowski
NFPA’S R. DAVID PAULISON NAMED NEWBOARD
CHAIRPERSON
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) completed the election of its Board of Directors at its Annual Meeting on June 17, 2024, which included the naming of a new chair, the election of two new members, and the reelection of a third member of the board.
R. David Paulison has been elected by the Board of Directors as the new chairperson.
Paulison, who has been serving on the NFPA Board since 2015 and was the First Vice Chair, brings extensive experience in emergency management and fire safety to his new role.
He has had a distinguished career, previously serving as the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and as the U.S. Fire Administrator. He also spent 30 years with the Miami-Dade Fire and Rescue Department, from 1971 to 2001, rising through the ranks from firefighter to becoming Fire Chief in 1992.
Paulison takes over from Russell Leavitt, executive chairman of Telgian Holdings, Inc., who is completing his second two-year term as Board Chair.
The Board also elected a slate of officers that includes John Bonney as First Vice Chair, Roger Montembeault as Second Vice Chair, Lou Paulson as Secretary, Stacy Welch as Treasurer, Reggie Freeman as Assistant Treasurer, and Russell Leavitt as Immediate Past Chair. Kwame Cooper will continue in his current role as Assistant Secretary.In addition, NFPAmembers elected two new Board members, and a third was reelected to three-year terms on the Board. They are Christina Francis, P.E., FSFPE; David Hittinger; and Raj Arora, P.E.\
AFGAND SAFER REAUTHORIZATION BILL PASSES SENATE
On June18, 2024, the US Senate passed the Fire Grants and Safety Act (S.870), a bill to reauthorize the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant programs, as well as the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) through 2028. The legislation also extended the sunset date for AFG and SAFER to September 30, 2030. The bill has been sent to the President to be signed into law. Once signed, these programs will be protected for the next several years, ensuring that the fire and emergency services can continue to access vital federal support. On July 9, 2024, President Biden signed S.870 into law.
USFA50TH ANNIVERSARY
The United States Fire Administration (USFA) kicked-off its 50th anniversary celebration with a staff gathering at the National Fire Academy on July 11, 2024. During the campus event the 50th anniversary cake was cut by U.S. Fire Administrator Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell and Branch Chief Smiley White. Chief White is the longest serving USFAemployee and is still an active member of the Guardian Hose Company in Thurmont, Maryland, and an instructor with the Maryland Fire and Rescue Training Institute (MFRI). Additional anniversary events will occur throughout the year.
Dracut Fire and PD Participate in Mock Crash at Dracut High School
Fire Chief Richard Patterson and Police Chief Peter Bartlett reported that the Dracut Fire and Police Departments participated in a mock crash at Dracut High School.
The police and fire departments teamed up with the Dracut High School Drama Club, Pridestar/TrinityEMS, Martineau’s Towing, and McKenna-Ouellette Funeral Home to present “Make a Date with Life,” an annual mock crash presented to high school seniors around prom and graduation time.
Students from the Dracut High School Drama Club played the roles of both drivers and passengers involved in an MVAbetween two vehicles donated by Martineau’s Towing. The Dracut Fire Department, Dracut Police, and Pridestar/Trinity EMS then worked together to respond to the crash as they would in a real scenario.
Dracut Firefighters used hydraulic tools to cut the roof off of one of the vehicles to free an entrapped occupant, and representatives of McKenna-Ouellette Funeral Home responded to take the body of a student who portrayed being dead.
Dracut Police performed a field sobriety test on one of the students who portrayed a driver, and then arrested that student for operating under the influence and using a handheld device while driving.
Dracut Firefighters who volunteered to take part in the event were Gage Brouillette, Dylan McCarthy, Ryan Charette, Brian Lantigne, and Kevin Bigold. On-duty firefighters who participated were Andy Poitras, Michael Petrilli II, Lt. Matt Silva, Lt. Brian McCarthy and Chief Patterson. Pridestar/Trinity EMS EMTS Kara Zimmerman and Ali Benedict also volunteered to participate. - Photos courtesy of Dracut FD
Pepperell (MA) July 4th Parade
Springfield’s David A. Wells Calls it a Career
Deputy David A. Wells retired after36 years of dedicated service to the Springfield (MA) Fire Department on May 3, 2024. Deputy Wells has served the city with dedication and pride overthis career. Today was filled with surprises for him as some of his family came from New Jersey forthe day, and some firefighters who Dave served with in Iraq also arrived. Dave was presented with plaques, gifts and a cake forhis day. Mayor Domenic Sarno proclaimed the day as “David A. Wells Day” in the city. Dave was surrounded by his family forthe event and his family greeted him at his home as Truck 1 provided the traditional fire truck ride home.
- Fire News photos by John DeForest
- Fire News photos by Shaun Shattuck
Hops and Hops & Halligans
Recently, in Portland (CT) Concentric Brewing Company and Hops & Halligans, Inc. welcomed FDNY Battalion Chief Mark Gregory to the brewery fora lecture on RITReady. Mark has a wealth of knowledge of the fire service and training and he shared it last night in front of a standing room crowd.
- Fire News photos by John DeForest
2024 Wachusett League Muster
The Wachusett League Muster. The league consists of severalarea community’s fire departments. This musterwas held (and is traditionally held) on Father’s Day weekend.
- Fire News photos by Paul Shea
WindsorLocks Memorial Day Parade
Shelton’s Flags forHeroes
WindsorLocks Fire Department participated in a rainy Memorial Day parade in WindsorLocks (CT).
- Fire News photos by Coral Ruggiero
Two Local Women Sworn in as Orange VFD Trustees
At 1100 on June 15, 2023, the DerbyShelton (CT) Rotary Club held theirthird annual Flags forHeroes ceremony at Veterans Memorial Park on Canal Street in Shelton. From May 25 through June 20, over300 flags were flown in honorof local heroes that have been sponsored by family, friends, coworkers, etc., at both Veterans Memorial Park and the Derby Green. These heroes can be active service members, veterans, firefighters, police, EMS, coaches, teachers, family orfriends. Apersonalized medallion can be seen attached to each flag with the hero’s name. - Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com
Two local women, already active in Orange (CT), have joined the Orange Volunteer Fire Association as trustees. Polly Demirjian and Donna Wesolowski were sworn in at the July business meeting of the association, which operates the fire department. Trustees are charged with offering counsel and assisting the department with its business affairs and management of its property. They are appointed to their positions. The pair joins a panel of six trustees.
Wesolowski has worked at Yale University for 40 years in research. An active member of the Orange Community Women and Holy Infant Women’s Guild, she serves on the Orange Country Fair Committee and the Orange Conservation Commission.
Demirjian is also an active member of the Orange Community Women. She was a member of the Orange Bicentennial Committee and co-chaired the Bicentennial Family Picnic. She is a partner in the law firm of Letizia, Ambrose and Falls in New Haven.
Fire Chief Vaughan Dumas welcomed the two to the department. Neither of the two are firefighters or have history with fire service, so they bring a different point of view to the management team. The current group of trustees is made up of three retired members of the Orange Volunteer Fire Department and three community members.
“This diverse group of guardians improves the guidance we receive and empowers our department to operate in a way that keeps us proactive and more responsive to community interests,” said Dumas.
- Submitted by Doug Fenichel
Up Close & Personal
Two of Simsbury (CT) firefighters from the “Black Sheep” group are on the ready conducting the weekly check of equipment and operational condition of the engine afterheavy wind gusts toppled trees and raced through the town according to Chief James Baldis.
- Submitted by Mark Grabowski
Brothers Ryan and Austin Hathaway from Shelton (CT) Company 3 making preparations for a controlled burn on Bruce Drive in coordination with the CTState Bomb Squad and ATF on June 27, 2024.
- Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com
Firefighters from the Branford Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Jack McCarthy, Fill The Box Fire Photography
Firefighters from the Canton (CT) Fire Department. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
Worcester(MA) firefighters responded to Outlook Drive in on June 4, 2024. - Fire News photo by Paul Shea
Firefighters at Ware (MA) 2-Alarmer. - Fire News photo by AGM Fire Photography
Holden (MA) firefighters pose with an US Army Apache helicopter. - Fire News photo by Paul Shea
Worcester(MA) Engine 9 crew with a green shield (probationary firefighter) on his first fire. - Fire News photo by Paul Shea
