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Fire News, July/August 2022, Page 3
In this issue... Lawrence 8-Alarmer On April 15, 2022, Lawrence (MA) Fire responded to a fire on Crosby Street. See story on page 6
2 Days, 2 Fires in North Smithfield Two fires destroy two buildings on a North Smithfield (RI) property on different days. See story on page 8
FF Injured in Windsor Locks Fire On May 7, 2022, the Windsor Locks (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to Cherry Street for a structure fire. See story on page 11
Fully Involved on Arrival New Ipswich (NH) crews responded to a two-alarm fire in New Ipswich on April 25, 2022. See story on page 14
Berlin Church Fire Berlin (CT) firefighters responded to a two-alarm-plus fire in the United Methodist Church in East Berlin. See story on page 21
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146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713 FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher TIM EDWARDS, Chief Operating Officer DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor GARY P. JOYCE, Managing Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production/Sales CLIFF CHIESA, Art Director/Production Manager Advertising Sales: BARBARA CONNOLLY, Graphic Artists: GREG JONES, LYNN SEDLER CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS ALAN BRACKETT, AMANDA CARMODY, THOMAS CARMODY, OWEN CARRIGAN, KEVIN CZARZASTY, JOHN DEFOREST, TIM DELANEY, ROB DILLON, PATRICK DOOLEY, DOUG DOW, OLIVIA DRAKE, GLENN DUDA, LIZ FEITELBERG, JIM FORTIN, JR., SEAN FREIMAN, JOHN HANLEY, BUD HARRIS, ED HARVEY, JEFFREY HASTINGS, STEPHEN HESS, MIKE IPPOLITO, DORRANCE “DOC” JOHNSON, RICK KULMANN, KEN LABELLE, ROBERT LADD, MICHAEL LAPRADE, SCOTT LAPRADE, PAUL LAROCHELLE, JR., KEN LEGER, KEITH MURATORI, BOB MYERS, RICK NOHL, BILL NOONAN, PETER OSTROSKEY JR., CHRIS PALMER, JIM PERUTA, PETER POZERSKI, GLENN PRESTON, ROB REARDON, DICK SCIALABBA, PAUL SHEA, JOE SHEFER, RICK SUSI, JON TENCA, PAT TRAVERS, DEVON WHALEN, KEVIN WHITE COPYRIGHT 2022, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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Obituaries LifeStar’s Derrick Donahue Brockton’s Matthew Flaherty See story on pages 42 & 43
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Page 4, Fire News, July/August 2022
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
Are You Ready for Something That Can’t Happen? An AS/MCI (active shooter/mass casualty incident) drill was held at Greenport (NY) High School on June 4, 2022. The drill had been scheduled months prior, but somewhat eerily took place 11 days after the Uvalde, Texas, school shooting in which 19 elementary school students and two teachers were slaughtered. The proximity to that latest AS/MCI is what has prompted this editorial. The drill involved the Southold Police, Suffolk Police, North Fork fire departments and EMS services from Jamesport to Orient, and even several South Fork departments, along with moulaged teenage actors to play victims. By all reports the exercise was a success. But what makes a successful AS/MCI drill? According to FEMA’s 2013 white paper, Fire/Emergency Medical Services Department Operational Considerations and Guide for Active Shooter and Mass Casualty Incidents, there are several things that responding agencies need to incorporate into a specific SOP for such an event. Why formalize reacting to an AS/MCI if your department already has an MCI plan in place? Because the “AS” part of the exercise makes it, nearly, an entirely different animal. Some particular areas of focus, become apparent with little thought and are proved out — or have problems made obvious — by an AS/MCI
drill. Some key facets are communication between the parties, including ensuring all parties are not only able to communicate with each other, but use the same terminologies when doing so. This is unlikely to be a problem between FDs and EMS, but it may become a problem when communicating with law enforcement (LE) who, in most instances, will be first on the scene. Other areas of concern will become apparent in frequent drills involving all the aforementioned agencies, as well as local hospitals and trauma units. There needs to be a single Incident Command Post for fire, EMS and LE. The goal of any and all SOPs is to plan, prepare and respond in a manner that will save the maximum number of lives possible. Although in their careers most first responders have encountered some horrific scenarios, the results of a mass shooting of unarmed people — seemingly more often than not children with obviously terminal wounds — will undoubtedly be something first responders will never forget. Many of the first responders will be long-term casualties of this ongoing slaughter, even if they never spilled a drop of their own blood. As psychology researcher Deborah C. Beidel, Ph.D. of the University of Central Florida, who has studied the impact these slaughters have on first
responders, put it, “There are just some events that are so horrific that no human being should be able to just process that and put it away.” Add after-action reports and treatments to the long list of things an AS/MCI SOP demands. A last note … “It’ll never happen here” too often becomes, “Oh my God, how did this happen?” Be prepared for the thing that’ll never happen. And the only way to do so is to train for it. - Gary P. Joyce Managing Editor Gary P. Joyce is filling in for Editor Dennis Whittam this month. Joyce is a decorated three-tour Viet Nam combat veteran.
Page 6, Fire News, July/August 2022
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Seymour 3-Alarmer
On April 20, 2022, Seymour (CT) firefighters responded to Bank Street for a building fire. Engine 13 arrived to heavy smoke showing from a store in a single-story taxpayer. An interior attack was made, but companies had to back out due to heavy fire which had extended into the cockloft. Second and third alarms were transmitted bringing departments from throughout the valley. Heavy fire
soon overtook the entire structure. Four aerials and multiple handlines were used to bring the fire under control in about two hours. The cause was being investigated by the Seymour FMO and the State of Connecticut Fire Marshal’s office. - Fire News photos by Glenn Duda, CFPA and Jack McCarthy (FillTheBoxFirePhotography)
Lawrence 8-Alarmer
On April 15, 2022, Lawrence (MA) Fire responded to a fire on Crosby Street. Upon arrival, Ladder 4 reported heavy fire on the third floor. Deputy McInnis arrived and struck a second alarm reporting a three-story wood frame with heavy fire on the third floor extending to two exposures. A third alarm was rapidly followed by a fourth for three three-story wood frames, and one two-
story wood frame involved. Additionally, there were numerous spot fires starting and the fifth alarm was transmitted. As mutual companies were still rolling into the city, command reported fire extending to a fifth building. The total amount of mutual aid brought to the scene classified the fire as an eighth alarm. - Fire News photos by Dylan Conway and Patrick Kerrigan
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Enfield Commercial 3-Alarmer
Firefighters from North Thompsonville, Thompsonville, Enfield, Hazardville and Shaker Pines (all CT) responded for a structure fire on Enfield Street at Artioli Dodge. First arriving units found heavy fire and smoke coming from the auto bay area and a second alarm was sounded. Fire quickly extended throughout the singlestory commercial building and three ladder pipes were put into use during the fire. Longmeadow responded making the fire a three alarmer. Crews would battle this fire defensively for well over two hours before bringing the fire under control. Mutual aid came from Suffield, Warehouse Point (East Windsor), Broad Brook and East Longmeadow. The CT Air National Guard responded with their air trailer. The Hartford County coordinators were on scene as well. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
Stratford Brush Fire
On April 28, 2022, Stratford (CT) firefighters responded for a brush fire along the southbound side of the Merritt Parkway, which grew rapidly with the help of a windy day. The fire threatened several structures before jumping the highway. The fire spread along the northbound side and into a wooded area. Several structures were threatened on that side. One garage and a picket fence were burned. The fire required a town wide response along with mutual aid from Bridgeport, Trumbull, Milford and Connecticut State Forestry Service. Departments from Shelton, Monroe and Trumbull covered. The fire took about two hours to bring under control. One firefighter was injured while battling the fire. - Fire News photo by Glenn Duda, CFPA
Fire News, July/August 2022, Page 7
Page 8, Fire News, July/August 2022
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Suspicious Fires in North Smithfield
For the second time in just two days, the Town of North Smithfield (RI) Fire Department worked a three-alarm fire at the same address on Pound Hill Road. On June 2, 2022, a three-alarm suspicious fire struck a 200- x 200-foot horse barn on the property. This was followed on June 4, when fire struck an L-shaped construction equipment storage garage and office for Nationwide Construction. This structure was a mere 20-feet away from the first fire. Another third
alarm was requested to the scene as this property was not serviced by a hydrant source. Tankers set up a draft and dump tank area at the entrance to the property and had to relay pump some 1000 feet to the scene. Adjacent structures were protected by water curtains as the water supply was being established. This complex was destroyed as well. The RI State Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating both suspicious fires on the property. - Fire News photos by Ken LaBelle
Beverly House Fire Beverly (MA) firefighters responded to a three-alarm house fire on Swan Street on March 8, 2022. Companies arrived to find heavy smoke and fire showing from the first floor of an occupied 2-1/2 story house. The fire extended to all floors and through the roof and crews were forced to go into a defensive mode. - Fire News photos by Rick Nohl
Monroe Brush Fire At approximately 1230 on May 25, 2022, members of the Stepney (CT) Volunteer Fire Department and Botsford (CT) Fire Department were dispatched to the 300 block of South Main Street for a reported mulch/brush fire. First-in companies found a large area burning on a commercial sized mulch pile and running up a hillside. Mutual aid was called in from all over the surrounding area (Newtown, Stevenson, Monroe and Sandy Hook) to set up a tanker shuttle operation to stop the fire. It took several hours before the fire was brought under control. - Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com
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Fire News, July/August 2022, Page 9
Through the Roof in Brockton
Brockton (MA) FAO transmitted Box 1346 for a house fire in the area of Green and Lexington Streets. Squad A, Engine 5, Engine 4 and Ladder 1 under Command of Car 56 DC Galligan. Car 56 arrived to heavy fire in the rear of a Highland Street address with a 2-1/2 story wood frame on fire and struck a second alarm. Engine 7, Engine 2 and Ladder 4 responded. Crews made an interior attack
with two lines and stretched a third. Truck companies opened the roof as the fire extended into the top floor. A third alarm was transmitted bringing Engine 3, Stoughton’s Engine 1 and Ladder 2. Two more lines were stretched and the fire was knocked down. Mutual aid came from West Bridgewater, Avon, Whitman and East Bridgewater. - Fire News photos by Bob Myers
Page 10, Fire News, July/August 2022
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Fitchburg Fire Goes to 3 Alarms
Fitchburg (MA) firefighters battled a three-alarm fire on Ashburnham Street on May 1, 2022. Companies had fire showing from the rear of a 2-1/2 woodframe and quickly struck a second alarm. The fire extended up into the attic and command struck a third alarm. Companies made an aggressive interior attack to knock down the fire. Multiple mutual aid companies assisted at the scene and covered the city. - Fire News photos by Patrick Kerrigan, David Bryce and Bryan Favreau
Wakefield Restaurant Fire
On April 18, 2022, Wakefield (MA) companies were dispatched to Albion Street to a popular local pizza and sandwich shop. Upon arrival at the Pizza Express, companies found smoke showing. A second alarm was ordered. Companies stretched multiple handlines and began to open up, finding a large volume of fire above the drop ceiling. As conditions worsened, a third alarm was ordered.
Wakefield, along with mutual-aid, was able to open up confined spaces and extinguish the fire in the shop. Additionally, propane tanks from a neighboring 7 Eleven gas station were moved away from the fire building. Companies had the fire knocked down and overhauled in under an hour. - Fire News photos by Dylan Conway and Rick Nohl
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Fire News, July/August 2022, Page 11
FF Injured in Windsor Locks Fire
Shortly before 1500 on May 7, 2022, the Windsor Locks (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to Cherry Street for a structure fire. Upon arrival, crews found heavy fire coming from the first floor and front porch of the house. Windsor Locks Police located all residents and pets outside the structure. One firefighter received an
injury when the porch collapsed. He was transported to a local hospital, treated and released. Warehouse Point responded on mutual aid. Bradley International Airport provided the RIT and Windsor provided station coverage. - Fire News photos by Coral Ruggiero and Jim Peruta
Page 12, Fire News, July/August 2022
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New London 3-Alarmer with Extra Call Around 0930 on April 30, 2022, New London (CT) Fire responded to Fuller Street for a dwelling fire. Crews arrived to two dwellings on fire. Engine 2, A 200 and Truck 2 arrived and command requested a second alarm, followed by a general alarm. The street was a dead end and limited apparatus access. A-1 requested a third alarm. Due to high winds and a gas-fed fire, conditions deteriorated and commanded evacuated the dwellings. During the defensive operations, a brush fire started across the street and command requested an extra alarm for this fire. - Fire News photo by Robert Ladd, CFPA
Hot Times on a Hot Day Pawtucket (RI) firefighters arrived to find heavy smoke showing from the three-story wood frame on Warren Avenue. Companies had fire showing from the porch on second floor extending to the third floor and attic. Companies made an aggressive interior attack and had the fire knocked down in a short amount of time. Ambient temperatures were in the upper 90s and command called for additional manpower. Mutual aid came to the scene and to cover the city. - Fire News photo by Kevin Kerrigan
Man, They Came a Long Way … On April 22, 2022, Pittsfield (MA) firefighters responded to what would become a four-alarm fire in an apartment building. Mutual aid was requested from several area departments. Dalton sent their ladder company which is currently a loaner rig that served in Boston. This made for some interesting photos and confused citizens since Dalton is about 140 miles from Boston. - Fire News photo by Ed Harvey
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Fire News, July/August 2022, Page 13
Shelton 2-Alarmer At approximately 1900 on April 1, 2022, the Shelton (CT) Fire Department received several calls for a building fire in the area of Howe Avenue and Maple Street. First companies arrived to heavy fire showing from the rear of a three-story, wood frame, multi-family home on the second and third floors. All four Shelton companies, as well as an engine and truck from Derby, operated at the scene that escalated to a second alarm. All occupants had been able to evacuate the structure without injury; one firefighter was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Ansonia, Stratford and Monroe provided station coverage while the Red Cross was called in to help relocate the occupants. - Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com
Newington Fire On May 10, 2022, Newington (CT) firefighters responded to a working fire on Reservoir Road. - Fire News photo by Jim Peruta
Page 14, Fire News, July/August 2022
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Pepperell 2-Alarmer
On April 17, 2022, Pepperell (MA) Fire was dispatched to Brookline Street for a building fire. Upon arrival, heavy smoke and fire were showing from a two-story wood frame with a single story “L” shaped addition. A working fire was transmitted followed by the second alarm about a minute later. Companies ran multiple handlines and set up the Pepperell Ladder. Mutual aid engines came
from Townsend (MA), Groton (MA), Dunstable (MA) and Nashua (NH). A Hollis (MA) tower also responded. Companies had the fire knocked down in about half an hour and remained on scene for an extensive time for overhaul. A single occupant escaped the fire prior to fire department arrival and refused transport. - Fire News photos by Dylan Conway
Taftville Handles Car Fire The Taftville (CT) Fire Department responded to a well involved car fire on Pratte Avenue on May 17, 2022. - Fire News photo by Joe Shefer
Fully Involved on Arrival New Ipswich (NH) crews responded to a two-alarm fire in New Ipswich on April 25, 2022. This was the second major fire in New Ipswich that week. The structure was fully involved with exposure problems on arrival. This was also in a non-hydrant area. - Fire News photo by David Bryce
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Fire News, July/August 2022, Page 15
Salem Neighborhood Saved From Possible Conflagration Salem fire responded for a building fire on Hancock Street. Companies arrived to heavy smoke and fire showing from the third floor with extension to at least five exposures. “Witch City” Jakes made an interior attack, while protecting the exposures at the same time. Deputy Chief Pelletier did not hesitate to call for additional trucks, knowing that it would likely be vital to get them into place early in the game (likely anticipating impending surround-anddrown ops) while they still had a shot to set up ladder pipes close by. The chiefs also did a great job covering all surrounding streets as well
Bedford and Manchester Extinguish Car Fire Bedford and Manchester firefighters received reports of a Jeep on fire on Interstate 293 south near the Bedford town line on Wednesday. Bedford fire arrived to find the vehicle fully engulfed and confirmed the occupant had safely exited. Firefighters used water, foam and extinguishers to knock down the fire. The highway had significant traffic backups as the travel lane and breakdown lane were closed while firefighters worked the scene. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office worked to direct traffic around the incident. The sheriff’s office was helping to cover the highways as some members of New Hampshire State Police attended the funeral of a Massachusetts State Trooper killed in the line of duty The highway was completely reopened after the vehicle was towed from the scene. - Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
which no doubt had a major impact on the outcome. The early-made decisions by the first-due officers and aggressive tactics of the men saved the neighborhood. About five buildings were damaged from the 3-plus alarmer, but it could have been much worse. SFD was assisted on the ground by Lynn, Beverly, Danvers, Wenham, Swampscott, Marblehead, Peabody and Middleton. Hamilton, Manchester and Lynn also covered. As always, the faithful and diligent volunteers from Rehab-5 provided fireground rehab services. - Fire News photo by Glenn Preston
Page 16, Fire News, July/August 2022
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Hancock Barn Fire
Good Stop in Peabody
Hancock (CT) Fire was dispatched for a tractor fire threatening a barn. Units found one barn well involved and a second threatened. Efforts were focused on keeping fire from spreading to the second structure and from spreading into the nearby brush. - Fire News photo by Ed Harvey
On April 24, 2022, Peabody (MA) companies responded for a building fire on Pine Ridge Lane. Engine 7 got some quick water on the fire in the garage of a three-story-frame town house. A great stop was made by PFD Jake’s. - Fire News photo by Glenn S. Preston
Watertown Commercial Fire
Chimney Fire in Canterbury
Recently, Waterbury and Watertown (CT) fire departments were called to Falls Avenue for a building fire. Engine 8 arrived to heavy fire from a two-story commercial building and a second alarm was soon struck. Crew worked through the morning hitting hot spots. - Fire News photo by Rick Kulmann
Firefighters battled a chimney fire in Canterbury (NH) on April 9, 2022. - Fire News photo by Sean Fesko / 911 ERV
Pittsfield Local 2647 Hits 4 Bells
Winds Push Middletown Brush Fire
- Fire News photo by Adam Ostellino
Several departments responded to a multi-acre brush fire in the southern section of Middletown (CT) on May 10, 2022. The fire had started after a tree fell onto a powerline in a wooded area. Due to strong winds, the fire quickly spread to approximately 250 acres throughout the day. Crews were on scene working to control the fire until approximately 0330 on May 11. - Fire News photo by Sam Baber
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Fire News, July/August 2022, Page 17
Everett Fire Crews battled a blaze in Everett (MA) on January 24, 2022. - Fire News photo by Rick Nohl
Agawam House Fire On April 28, 2022, Agawam (MA) firefighters were called to the area of Springfield and Bessbrook Streets just after 2130 for a structure fire. Engine 2 reported the house was fully involved on the A side of the two-story wood framed dwelling. Engine 2 used its tank water and opened the deck gun to start attacking the fire. Crews went defensive knocking down much of the heaviest fire on the exterior before entering. It took crews well over an hour to bring the fire under control. Mutual aid came from Longmeadow, Westfield and West Springfield. The fire was under investigation by the Massachusetts State Fire Marshal and Agawam Police. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
Page 18, Fire News, July/August 2022
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Newport Hotel Fire Goes to 4-Alarms
Just after 2000 on May 23, 2022, Newport (RI) firefighters arrived to find a fire in a wing of the Wayfarer Inn, a large hotel consisting of several buildings. The fire was in a 2-1/2 story section approximately 150- × 75-feet, located immediately adjacent to the main building, a four-story structure. During the interior attack, companies encountered a floor collapse on the second floor and were forced to back out. Engine 5 reported they were missing a firefight-
er and, after a few tense moments, the missing firefighter was accounted for. All companies were pulled out of the building and a defensive posture with multiple ladder pipes and master streams began. The fire eventually extended into the main building and special calls for additional engines and tankers were made above the fourth alarm. - Fire News photos by Ed Burke and Patrick Kerrigan
Brockton Attic Fire Brockton (MA) FAO transmitted Box 2213 for a house fire. Engine 5 arrived to heavy smoke showing from the attic of a 2-1/2 story dwelling. Engine 4 and Ladder 1 responded. Several lines were stretched as Deputy Chief Jeff Marchetti arrived and struck a second alarm. Deputy Chief Kevin Galligan arrived as Acting Chief of the Department. Heavy fire conditions continued in the attic area and a third alarm was struck. Engine 3, and West Bridgewater Engine and Ladder 4 responded to the scene. The fire was knocked down in about 45 minutes. - Fire News photos by Bob Myers and Dave Stewart/ MassFirePics.com
Kitchen Fire in New Britain New Britain (CT) firefighters responded to a kitchen fire on Slater Road on March 19, 2022. - Fire News photo by Jim Peruta
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Fire News, July/August 2022, Page 19
Hartford Fire Department
On April 18, 2022, at 2052, Hartford (CT) was dispatched to the area of Albany Avenue and Adams Street for a reported house on fire. First-due units reported a 2-½ story single-family house with heavy smoke and fire showing. Due to the intensity of the fire, a second alarm and defensive approach was ordered. Crews set up two
tower ladders to help extinguish the deep-seated fire. The roof completely burned off the house and the cause of the fire was under investigation by the FMO Office. No injuries were reported. - Fire News photos by Nick Peruta and Jim Peruta
On April 17, 2022, Hartford (CT) firefighters were dispatched to a fire in a brick apartment building on Asylum Street in Hartford. Engine 5 could see heavy smoke showing fleaving their house. Ladders were quickly setup and a chief called for the second alarm due to the fire being in a occupied building. Crews reported fire had extended into the hallway as they were moving in. The fire extended to the third floor and cockloft before \being extinguished. - Fire News photo by Jim Peruta
Hartford (CT) firefighters responded to an early morning fire on Westland Street in the city’s North End on April 16, 2022. - Fire News photo by Jim Peruta
On May 9, 2022, a Hartford (CT) Fire Department engine was sent out to investigate smoke in the area of Hillside and Flatbush Avenues. Engine 15 found smoke coming from a 1-½ story wood frame on Hillside Ave. The fire was quickly brought under control. - Fire News photo by Jim Peruta
Hartford (CT) firefighters responded for a fire on Main Street on May 10, 2022. - Fire News photo by Jim Peruta
Page 20, Fire News, July/August 2022
Staying Busy in Haddam
- Fire News photo by Olivia Drake
Fall River Porch Fire
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Trailer Home Fire in Uncasville
- Fire News photo by Robert Ladd CFPA
Watertown 2-Alarmer
- Fire News photo by Ken Leger
1 Civ Injured at Wallingford Fire
- Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan
Another Piece of History Burns
- Fire News photo by Joseph Ciscone
South Windham 2-Alarm Fire - Fire News photo by Robert Ladd
- Fire News photo by Bud Harris
Hart’s Location Brush Fire - Fire News photo by Sean Fesko/911 ERV
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Fire News, July/August 2022, Page 21
Berlin Church Fire Berlin (CT) firefighters responded to a two-alarm-plus fire in the United Methodist Church on Main Street in East Berlin on April 1, 2022 at 0400. The church was built around 1896. - Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
Charlton Truck Fire On April 15, 2022, Charlton (MA) firefighters responded to a fire within a truck body filled with tires. Although finding heavy fire upon arrival they were able to keep the fire from extending to a nearby vacant structure. - Fire News photo by Bud Harris
Page 22, Fire News, July/August 2022
New Haven 2-Alarmer
- Fire News photo by Glenn Duda, CFPA
North Haven House Fire
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Lincoln Apartment Fire
- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
Kittery Blaze
- Fire News photo by Jack McCarthy, FillTheBoxFirePhotography
Fire Destroys Berkley Home
- Fire News photo by Dylan Conway
Wolcott Responds
- Photo courtesy of Berkley FR
3-Alarm Fire in Dalton
- Fire News photo by Rick Kulmann
Canterbury Tales
- Photo courtesy of R. Blessing - Fire News photo by Joe Shefer
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Fire News, July/August 2022, Page 23
West Hartford Building Fire West Hartford (CT) firefighters responded to an occupied building fire on Lilley Road on April 16, 2022. - Fire News photo by Jim Peruta
Mother’s Day Fire in Windsor Windsor (CT) firefighters were alerted to a working fire on Mother’s Day 2022. Crews encountered heavy fire conditions within the structure and briefly resorted to defensive operations before continuing their attack. Mutual aid from surrounding towns were called in to assist with fireground operations and town-wide coverage. - Fire News photo by Stephen Hess
Page 26, Fire News, July/August 2022
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New Hampton MVA Crews responded to a MVA in New Hampton (NH) on April 29, 2022. - Fire News photo by Sean Fesko/911 ERV
NH State Trooper Injured New Hampshire State Trooper was injured while on a traffic stop on the Everett Turnpike near Exit 11 on April 30, 2022, at about 0730. The trooper was on a motor vehicle stop in the right-hand northbound breakdown lane when a car traveling north slammed into the cruiser. The car that struck the cruiser careened off the cruiser down to the Exit 11 north on-ramp. Merrimack fire, police, and NH State Police responded, the trooper on his radio was reporting injuries to himself and the driver of the other vehicle. The trooper and the woman driving the car were given medical treatment at the scene and immediately transported to local hospitals. - Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
Milton MVA Crews responded to an MVA with entrapment in Milton (NH) on April 23, 2022. - Fire News photo by Sean Fesko/911 ERV
Wrong Way MVA An apparent wrong way elderly driver collided with several vehicles in Nashua on the F.E. Everett Turnpike (NH) in the southbound lane just before 1100. Multiple calls came into 9-1-1 from people reporting a blue vehicle operating on the wrong side of the road from the Circumferential Highway in Hudson. Callers then reported the vehicle was traveling north in the southbound lane of the Everett Turnpike. New Hampshire State Police and Nashua Police were responding to the highway in an attempt to stop the vehicle when a multivehicle collision occurred just north of the southbound lane, and north of Exit 4. Nashua Police and multiple Nashua Fire units and several AMR ambulances responded to the scene. While en route it was reported one driver was heavily entrapped in a passenger
car, and one vehicle had rolled over. Additional Nashua Fire apparatus was dispatched, and a trauma alert was requested for an elderly female who was trapped inside the passenger car. Firefighters used cutting and spreading tools to gain access to the woman. She was removed from the vehicle and rushed to Southern New Hampshire Medical Center with serious injuries. Several other vehicles that were involved were scattered across the roadway, and medics treated the occupants of those vehicles and transported at least three people to hospitals. New Hampshire State Police, were assisted by Nashua Police in opening one lane of the roadway for traffic to pass. Traffic on the Everett Turnpike backed up for several miles, and the delay lasted for hours as the scene was
investigated and cleared. It appears the elderly woman began to collide with other vehicles, according to witnesses, One vehicle that was struck was pushed into a Jeep causing it to rollover the embankment. - Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
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Fire News, July/August 2022, Page 27
River Rd MVA Rollover At approximately 1530 on May 28, 2022, Shelton (CT) Fire Companies 4 and 1 were dispatched to River Road for an overturned vehicle. It was reported that there was still one person trapped in the vehicle. Upon arrival of the first units, they found that the driver had just self-rescued as they pulled up. Luckily the driver appeared to have no injuries and refused medical help. This accident took place in the same location as a previous multiple fatal accident a few years ago. - Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com
DOT Crew Struck A New Hampshire DOT crew on Route 101 doing line painting near the Auburn and Candia town line were struck by a vehicle traveling eastbound on Rte 101 recently. Several trucks were lined up on the right side of the roadway traveling east when a passenger car struck the rear protective cage of the NH DOT truck at about 1130. Fire and EMS were dispatched from Auburn and Candia and responders were advised there were two people entrapped in the car. When Auburn Fire arrived, they found a car with heavy damage, with two injured occupants. The occupants of the car were not trapped and firefighters began to provide medical aid. Additional ambulances were requested from Derry and Londonderry to assist with the occupants of the car and evaluate the NH Dot workers involved in the accident. New Hampshire State Police responded and closed all paved lanes of 101 but were able to slowly move one lane of traffic into the grass median to keep traffic moving. State Police remind drivers to move over and yield when you The accident is being investigated by New Hampshire State Police. The condition of the people involved is unknown but the injuries did not approach red, blue, and yellow lights on vehicles in the roadway. - Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings appear to be life threatening while they were treated at the scene.
Truck into Swamp in Carver Firefighters and the Carver (MA) Fire Department Dive Team responded to a crash in which a truck that exited the roadway landed in a swamp on March 28, 2022. The initial dispatch reported that the vehicle was in the water which prompted the activation of the divers. Although the occupants self-extricated, members in survival suits secured hazards and assisted with the removal of the vehicle. The crews were challenged with the elevated position of the truck, which was still running with the wheels spinning, and waist deep water below. - Fire News photo by Rob Reardon
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Training
Live Fire Training Bedford (NH) Fire Department in coordination with multiple area fire departments held a training exercise with live burns on McAllister Road recently. The owners coordinated with Bedford Fire Department to allow them to have access to the building for the training. About 65 firefighters from Bedford, Merrimack, Manchester, Londonderry, New Boston, Litchfield, Goffstown and Amherst participated. Firefighters completed several training evolutions allowing them to train for search and rescue, experience intense smoke conditions, and extreme temperatures in rooms that had actual fire. Early afternoon after more than a dozen training exercises the building became an inferno and was controlled by crews using water streams from a ladder truck and firefighters using hoses surrounding the area. Crews located a short distance away worked to establish and maintain water supply throughout the day. EMS stood by during the training, but was not needed for any medical issues. - Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
HAZMAT Training in Stoneham Chief Matthew Grafton and the Stoneham (MA) Fire Department are pleased to report that the District 2 State Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) Team conducted a realistic training exercise in Stoneham in a vacant restaurant on Main Street, thanks to the generosity of Stoneham Ford, which recently purchased property. District 2 team members come from Arlington, Belmont, Boston, Braintree, Brookline, Burlington, Cambridge, Chelsea, Dedham, Everett, Lexington, Lynn, Malden, Massport, Medford, Melrose, Milton, Needham, Newton, Quincy, Revere, Saugus, Somerville, Stoneham, Wakefield, Waltham, Watertown, Wellesley, Weston, Weymouth, Winchester, Winthrop and Woburn. “I want to thank Stoneham Ford for providing a great opportunity to train in a realistic environment. Their generosity will help make our community and our neighboring communities safer,” said Chief Grafton. “I’m also grateful for all of our mutual aid partners from District 2, Cataldo Ambulance, Rigaku Analytical Devices, and our partners at the DPW, police and health departments.” - Submitted by Robert Mills
Water Rescue Training Several area fire departments and agencies participated in a joint water rescue training at Millers Pond State Park (CT) on May 19, 2022. The park, located in both Haddam and Durham, contains a 30-acre body of water that is fed by coldwater springs. Although the pond isn’t designated as a swim area, nine victims have drowned in Millers Pond since 2000. Historically, emergency services have been required to respond to this park for a variety of situations, including hiking and swimming injuries, water rescues and drownings. During the drill, firefighters took boats to a deep area of the pond where divers participated in underwater searchand-rescues. Other firefighters practiced managing operations from the shoreline. Participants included Haddam, Durham, Middletown, Middletown South, Portland, Connecticut State Police, Valley Shore Emergency Communications and Middlesex Health EMS. At the end of the drill, State Troopers offered firefighters rides in their AirRanger, a flat-bottomed hovercraft, which is able to navigate through shallow water, marshes, floods, ice, and frozen lakes and ponds. - Fire News photo by Olivia Drake
Berkshire RIT Co-op Revived A firefighter practices the basics of harness conversion at the Berkshire RIT Co-op training session held on April 24, 2022, in Great Barrington (MA). The recently revived Co-op is an opportunity to practice RIT skills with firefighters from around the region while being monitored by experienced instructors. The Co-op has a presence on Facebook where future training events will be posted. - Fire News photo by Ed Harvey
FireNews.com
Training
Combined Fall River/Bedford Fire Academy Class
A combined Fall River/New Bedford (MA) recruit Fire Academy training was held at the training facility in Fall River. - Fire News photo by Ken Leger
Hartford FF 1 Class Trains on Ladder Work
Hartford (CT) County Regional Fire School Firefighter 1 Class worked outside for ladder skills day. The exercise had five stations for firefighters to understand different types of ladders, climbing skills, rescue, placing ladders and tying off equipment to ladders. Firefighters quickly understood how important it was to communicate between each other for the skills with ladders. Communication and teamwork are the key to properly working with ladders. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
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Training
Water Rescue Drill in Granby On May 17, 2022, Granby (Lost Acres), Barkhamsted and East Hartland fire departments (all CT), along with Granby Ambulance service conducted a water rescue drill at Enders State Forest in Granby on Route 219. The drill was under the direction of Lost Acres Fire Chief John Horr, Jr. Chief Horr noted that, since 1997, there had been 32 water rescues at the forest, out of which two were serious and one was fatal. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
Training for Train Accidents On an average day, more than 30 passenger trains pass through Windsor Locks (CT). Despite the constant presence of trains, first responders don’t often get the chance to train on how to handle a railroad-related emergency. On the morning of April 30, 2022, a training exercise was held on the railroad spur line just south of the Windsor Locks Commons. Departments staged in Dexter Plaza and responded to the Commons area. Though many types of train emergencies exist, this drill was designed to simulate a passenger train derailment where the cars remained upright. First responders were provided opportunities to use the emergency shut off to disable the locomotive engine, to remove a window to extricate a simulated victim, and to stabilize the wheels of the train. A smoke machine was running in one of the passenger cars to simulate a fire. Since trains are rarely empty, the drill also included a simu-
lated mass casualty incident. Patients were removed from the cars and triaged by fire and ambulance crews based on the extent of their assigned injuries. Then, EMS personnel made a plan for transport to area hospitals. Law enforcement agencies provided scene security, evidence preservation, and cause investigation. Task Force 52 (comprised of Bloomfield, Blue Hills, Bradley International Airport, CT Air National Guard, Collins Aerospace, East Granby, Suffield, Windsor and Windsor Locks Fire Departments) was activated as part of the exercise. The Federal Railroad Association (FRA) mandates drills such as this be conducted on every railway. Windsor Locks was chosen as the location of this drill by CT DOT, CT Rail, and Amtrak, all who sponsored the exercise. - Fire News photos by Coral Ruggiero
Peru MCI Drill History is what we seek to learn from. In August 1942 a US military plane crashed into the foggy Garnett Mountain located in the Northern Berkshire Town of Peru (MA). Sixteen of the 19 service members, most of them paratroopers, lost their lives. Could it happen again? Yes. That answer led to months of planning and meetings to train responders in Mass Casualty Care and coordinate a massive amount of resources from multiple disciplines. Nineteen volunteer “victims” from the Southwick Scout Troop 114 and area drama students were drafted to role play. Local moulage (make up) specialist and emergency responder J.D. Herbert added to the realism by giving the victims simulated injuries and detailed acting instructions. The site is not easy to get to, about 1.5 miles from the nearest paved road and the rocky trail gave some of the best UTV/ATV operators a challenge. After a long bumpy ride the victims were spread throughout the mountain top that was shrouded in dense fog. Emergency responders were toned out and started to arrive on scene. Initially arriving in a brush truck, Peru firefighters met up with a Peru police officer on an ATV. Together they sized up the scene and started primary triage.
Additional resources were requested and started to arrive from Hinsdale, Middlefield, Savoy, Windsor, Dalton, and Lanesborough with resources from Massachusetts Environmental Police, and Massachusetts DCR Forest Fire Control. With the role players in full character the crews continued to find and triage victims. Victims who could walk were assisted out of the wood to a staging/treatment area. The more severely injured victims, once located, had to be carried out of the forest to a parade of UTVs waiting to bring them to ambulances. The ambulances from Hinsdale, County Ambulance, and Northern Berkshire Ambulance, then simulated transport of the victims to Berkshire Medical Center, a major player in the drill. As the last of the victims were being located, the crew from the Forest Fire Control arrived to control a simulated fire caused by the crash. Cooperation and teamwork across disciplines and jurisdictions was paramount to help keep the incident moving. The impressive coordination of planning and logistics of both the drill and the incident were supported by the Berkshire County Sheriff’s mobile command post, and Hinsdale Fire’s Rehab bus. The Massachusetts Department of Fire Services brought a drone and pilot and their rehab unit, which was sta-
tioned at the Peru fire house. Triage officers were challenged at the end of drill to account for one last victim which led to a brief hasty search until the party was located and carried out. As units returned to the fire station for a debriefing they were treated to lunch. The drill was carefully evaluated by the Northwest Massachusetts Incident Management Team, Western Mass. EMS, and Massachusetts Call/Vol. Firefighter Association among other agencies. The drill was funded entirely by donations of time, effort, and private funds. Plans Section Chief for the drill, Butch Garrity, said “The incident was based on an actual event and was extremely plausible. The incident could happen anywhere and the lessons learned were invaluable and better prepared all involved for (an) enhanced response.” - Fire News photo by Ed Harvey
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Up Close & Personal EMT and Probationary Firefighter Sierra Statkiewicz operates the pump during a small brush fire in Higganum (CT) on May 23, 2022. - Fire News photo by Olivia Drake
Fitchburg (MA) Fire Captain Patrick Roy. - Fire News photo by Patrick Kerrigan
Ayer (MA) Fire Chief Johnston with Leominster (MA) Fire Chief Sideleau. - Fire News photo by Patrick Kerrigan
Providence (RI) firefighter rescuing a cat from a June 6, 2022 fire on on Arch Street. - Fire News photo by Ken Labelle
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Up Close & Personal
Firefighters Providence (RI) Special Hazards 1 (Heavy Rescue) crew taking a breather. -Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
Oxford (MA) Police Officer/Fire Investigator Michael Fournier combs through the rubble of a fatal house fire. - Fire News photo by Bud Harris
On the morning of April 30, 2022, a training exercise was held on the railroad spur line just south of the Windsor Locks Commons. - Fire News photo by Coral Ruggiero
Bridgeport (CT) Firefighter Eddie Ferreyra of Engine 1 operating at an all-hands fire on Broad Street on April 27, 2022. - Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com
Firefighters were dispatched for an out of control permitted burn on Cross Road near the New York State line. The fire eventually led to a task force forest fire response with crews from Berkshire County (MA), Columbia County (NY) and Massachusetts DCR Fire Control. Firefighters from the Hartford (CT) Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Jim Peruta
Shelton (CT) Lieutenant Minardo from Company 4 operating at an MVA rollover on River Road on May 28, 2022. - Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com
- Fire News photo by Ed Harvey
Springfield (MA) firefighters were dispatched to Washburn Street just before 2200 on April 13, 2022, for a structure fire. Engine 7, with Lieutenant Evan Cournoyer, reported smoke snowing from a two-story apartment complex. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
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Fire News, July/August 2022, Page 33
Up Close & Personal On April 4, 2022, the New England FOOLS (Fraternal Order of Leatherheads Society), after two years, welcomed back “Spring Training” at the Dennis R. Emery Training Center in Dayville (CT). Firefighters from all over the Northeast attended the two-day event. Firefighters went through fire attack first floor, fire attack second floor, RIT training, ventilation, forcible entry and IC operations. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
Bedford (MA) Fire Department in coordination with multiple area fire departments held a training exercise with live burns. - Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
A New Haven (CT) firefighter after operating at a secondalarm fire on Columbus Avenue on April 17, 2022. - Fire News photo by Jack McCarthy A combined Fall River/New Bedford (MA) recruit Fire Academy training at the training facility in Fall River. - Fire News photo by Ken Leger
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Graduation Career Recruit Firefighter Class BW-18
At 1100 hours on the morning of April 8, 2022, the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy held a graduation for Career Recruit Firefighting Class BW-18 at their Bridgewater campus. This graduation was held simultaneously as the 300th career recruit class graduation that was held at the Stow campus. Eighteen recruits, representing 12 communities completed the 10week program held at the Bridgewater campus, and also attending the Stow campus for some specialized training during the 10-weeks. The audience was filled with firefighters, friends and family members of the graduates. The Master of Ceremonies of the event was Recruit Programs Coordinator Dennis Ball. Deputy State Fire Marshal Maribel Fournier addressed the graduates and those in attendance, sharing some words of wisdom to the new graduates. Lieutenant Paul Medeiros of the Massachusetts Fire Training Council presented the Outstanding Student Award to CentervilleOsterville-Marston Mills Firefighter Matthew DePippo for his hard
work during the academy. DePippo also addressed the audience as the Student Spokesman near the end of the ceremony. Along with some of his classmates, they presented the academy instructors a class plaque to be hung up at the academy. The graduates of Bridgewater Class-18 were: John Conaty, Peter Donovan and Matthew McCabe of the Belmont Fire Department; Matthew DePippo and John Green of the Centerville-OstervilleMarston Mills Fire Department; Kyle DiFrancesco and Samuel Hammond of the Dennis Fire Department; Spencer Espinola of the Fairhaven Fire Department; Jean-Marc Thelussaint of the Hanover Fire Department; Stephen Imparato of the Harwich Fire Department; Jason Kirby of the Lakeville Fire Department; Michael Lupisella and Alexander Peckham of the Marlborough Fire Department; Shane Couming of the Mendon Fire Department; Geury De La Cruz and Cody Caponi of the Peabody Fire Department; Fernando Baez of the Salem Fire Department; and Justin Everson of the Whitman Fire Department. - Fire News photos by Pat Travers
Windsor Locks Fire Department Memorial Day Parade Father Tim O’Brien and Monsiguer Robert O’Grady riding in Engine 3.
Connecticut Air National Guard Fire Department - Fire News Coral Ruggiero
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Fire News, July/August 2022, Page 35
Remembering the Fallen: FF Ricardo Torres
On May 12, 2022, a large contingent of New Haven (CT) firefighters joined their brothers at the department’s Dixwell Station to dedicate a monument in memory of Firefighter Ricardo Torres who perished in the line-of-duty while fighting a house fire on Valley Street on May 12, 2021. - Fire News photos by Dorrance Johnson
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Promotions in Central Falls
The City of Central Falls (RI) Fire Department held a swearing in/promotion ceremony on May 9, 2022, at the Shark Club on Broad Street. Promoted was Sam Dyman to Deputy Chief, Mark
Landry to Captain, and Sean Gaughan to Lieutenant. Also sworn in were Taylor Smith, Josh Brown and Steve Collabella as probationary firefighters. - Fire News photos by Ken LaBelle
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Fire News, July/August 2022, Page 37
Grafton Fire Canteen Grafton (MA) Fire Canteen provides plenty of refreshments to firefighters. - Fire News photo by Bud Harris
Peru Brush/Tanker Peru (MA) still operates this 1982 Diamond Reo Military Brush/Tanker. - Fire News photo by Bud Harris
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Massachusetts Fire Chiefs’ Professional Development Conference
- Fire News photos by Chief Russ Anderson
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Fire News, July/August 2022, Page 39
Unique Needs Require Unique Apparatus Departments spec their apparatus for their unique needs. The crews from Columbia County (NY), brought these units as part of a mutual aid forest fire task force call out in West Stockbridge (MA). Spencertown’s (NY) 51-2 is an all-wheel-drive Mitsubshi Fuso set up for forest fire work. Lebanon Valley’s (CT) M-25 is a full-size Ford Van that is used in the case to pull the UTV trailer. East Chatham (NY) has an old school bus as an Emergency Scene Support Unit, it appears to be set up quite well for firefighter rehab. - Fire News photo by Ed Harvey
Memorial Day Parade in South Windsor - Fire News photo by Michael Brinius
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Two Firefighter Recruit Classes Graduate from Massachusetts Firefighting Academy 43 Recruits Represent 25 Fire Departments
State Fire Marshal Peter J. Ostroskey and Deputy State Fire Marshal Maribel Fournier announced the graduation of 43 firefighters from the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy. Graduates completed the 50-day Career Recruit Firefighting Training Program at two campuses: Class 300 trained at the Stow campus and Class BW18 trained at the Bridgewater campus. “First responders are on the frontlines protecting their communities, and these newest firefighters are needed now more than ever,” said State Fire Marshal Ostroskey. “The rigorous professional training they’ve received provides them with the physical, mental, and technical skills to perform their jobs effectively and safely.”
Class 300 (Stow): 25 Graduates from 13 Fire Departments The 25 firefighters of Class #300 represent the fire departments of Andover, Beverly, Clinton, Dracut, Malden, Methuen, Needham, North Andover, Plymouth, Reading, Sudbury, Wellfleet, and Westminster. Class BW18 (Bridgewater): 18 Graduates from 12 Fire Departments The 18 firefighters of Class #BW18 represent the fire departments of Belmont, Centerville-Osterville-Marstons Mills, Dennis, Fairhaven, Hanover, Harwich, Lakeville, Marlborough, Mendon, Peabody, Salem, and Whitman. - Submitted by Jake Wark
Three Firefighter Recruit Classes Graduate from MFA
State (MA) Fire Marshal Peter J. Ostroskey and Deputy State Fire Marshal Maribel Fournier, acting director of the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy (MFA), announced the graduation of 60 firefighters from the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy today. Graduates completed the 50-day Career Recruit Firefighting Training Program at three campuses: Class 301 trained at the Stow campus, Class S27 trained at the Springfield campus and Class BW19 trained at the Bridgewater campus. Class #301 (Stow): 24 Graduates from 10 Fire Departments The 24 firefighters of Class #301 represent the fire departments of Arlington, Bellingham, Chelsea, Ipswich, Lynn, Malden, Natick, Plymouth, Stoughton, and Tewksbury.
Class #S27 (Springfield): 19 Graduates from 13 Fire Departments The 19 firefighters of Class #S27 represent the fire departments of Agawam, Amherst, Charlton, Chicopee, Greenfield, Holden, Holyoke, North Adams, Northampton, Southbridge, Southwick, Westborough, and Westwood. Class #BW19 (Bridgewater): 17 Graduates from 8 Fire Departments The 17 firefighters of Class #BW19 represent the fire departments of Abington, Belmont, Concord, Foxborough, Hanson, Hyannis, Norwell, and Peabody. - Submitted by Jake Wark
Call/Volunteer Firefighters Graduate from MFA
State (MA) Fire Marshal Peter J. Ostroskey and Deputy State Fire Marshal Maribel Fournier, acting director of the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy (MFA), announced the graduation of 35 recruits from the MFA Call/Volunteer Recruit Firefighter Training Program. The graduates received certificates of completion at a ceremony held last night at Bridgewater State University. The 35 graduates represent the 16 fire departments of Acushnet, Berkley, Chatham, Dartmouth Fire District 1, Fairhaven, Halifax, Lakeville, Marion, Medway, Plympton, Raynham, Rehoboth, Rochester, Truro, Wareham, and West Bridgewater. The Call/Volunteer Firefighter Recruit Training Program is unique in that it delivers a standard recruit training curriculum, meeting national standards, on nights and weekends to accommodate the schedule of firefighters in suburban and rural areas. Bringing the training closer to firefighters means more can participate and allows them more time to practice training skills with instructors.
The MFA, a division of the Department of Fire Services, has offered the program since 2003. To date, nearly 3,000 call and volunteer recruits have graduated. - Submitted by Jake Wark
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Fire News, July/August 2022, Page 41
Bridgeport Promotional & Swearing-In Ceremony
On May 18, 2022, several members of the Bridgeport (CT) Fire two fire inspectors, five pumper engineers, and four new firefightDepartment were promoted or sworn-in at the Common Council ers. Congrats to all and their families! Chambers in front of family and friends. Promotions included one - Fire News photos by FireGroundImages.com fire marshal, one deputy fire marshal, one captain, 14 lieutenants,
Plymouth’s Chief G. Edward Bradley Retires
The Plymouth Fire Department saw many public safety professionals, local and state officials, members of the Plymouth community and friends and family gathered recently to celebrate the retirement of Chief G. Edward Bradley after 47 years of dedicated service to the department and Town of Plymouth. The celebration took place at the Plymouth Fire Headquarters on Sandwich Street marking Chief Bradley's official last day of fire service, April 12. At the beginning of Chief Bradley’s last shift, an American flag was raised and flown in honor of his accomplishments. The flag was flown throughout the day and then during a ceremony hosted at the very end of his shift, the flag was presented to him by then-Deputy Chief Neil Foley. “The Plymouth Fire Department thanks Chief Bradley and his family for their years of sacrifice and for sharing him with his brother and sister firefighters,” then-Deputy Chief Foley said. “We wish Chief Bradley the very best in his well-deserved retirement.” Following the flag presentation ceremony at the department, Chief
Bradley was recognized at the Plymouth Select Board’s meeting as well. At the meeting, state delegation members Senator Susan Moran and Representatives Mathew Muratore and Kathleen LaNatra presented Chief Bradley with a Massachusetts General Court Resolution congratulating him on his retirement, which was also co-signed by Rep. Steven Xiarhos. Chief Bradley joined the call force at Station 5 Manomet on October 13, 1974. He went on to be appointed as a full-time firefighter on January 2, 1977, before being promoted to lieutenant in November 2000. Chief Bradley continued to rise within the ranks of the department, going on to be promoted to Captain in March 2003 and Battalion Chief in November 2006. He was then appointed as Fire Chief in December 2007. The men and women of the Plymouth Fire Department wish Chief Bradley a happy retirement! - Photos courtesy of Plymouth Fire Department
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Obituary
LifeStar’s Derrick Donahue
On April 7, 2022, LifeStar Flight Nurse/Paramedic Derrick Donahue tragically passed away in a scuba diving accident while on vacation in Curacao. Diving was one of Derrick’s passions and he had made many trips to Curacao. Prior to LifeStar, Derrick had worked as an Emergency Department nurse at Hartford Hospital and Intensive Care Unit nurse at Manchester Memorial Hospital He began his emergency service career as a junior member of the Broad Brook Fire Department (CT) and later with the Warehouse Point Fire Department (CT). Derrick was a career Firefighter/Paramedic in Massachusetts and Connecticut. He was one of the first paid part-time EMTs and supervisors at East Windsor Ambulance. Derrick had the opportunity to interact with a number of police, fire, and EMS agencies throughout his career. A procession held on April 22 made his impact on the community abundantly clear. He was met on the tarmac by brother and sister firefighters from Connecticut State Firefighters IAFF Local S-15, members of East Windsor Ambulance,
and an Honor Guard composed of his coworkers from LifeStar. East Windsor Ambulance Association transported Derrick from Bradley International Airport to Bassinger Funeral Home in East Windsor. Hundreds lined Spring Street in Windsor Locks and Bridge Street in East Windsor to pay their respects. Derrick and his family were escorted by East Windsor Police Department, Warehouse Point Fire Department, Broad Brook Fire Department, AMR Ambulance, Aetna Ambulance, Connecticut State Police, Windsor EMS, and Baystate PreHospital and Emergency Services. Windsor Locks Fire Department, Windsor Locks Police Department and Bradley International Airport Fire Department assisted with arrangements and traffic control. Suffield Volunteer Ambulance Association, Enfield EMS, and Windsor Locks Lions Ambulance Corps staged along the procession route to render honors. It is impossible to count the number of lives that have been touched by Derrick’s time on this Earth. He will be greatly missed by many family and friends. - Fire News photos by Coral Ruggiero
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Fire News, July/August 2022, Page 43
Obituary
Brockton’s Matthew Flaherty
For the second time in two months the Brockton (MA) Fire Department buried one of their own. Brockton Firefighter Matthew Flaherty died in a motorcycle accident on April 11, 2022. He was 35years old. After high school, Matthew joined the United States Marine Corps and was assigned to 1st Battalion 25th Marines. Matthew honorably served our country in tours in Iraq and Afghanistan where he and his K9 companion, Sergeant Chica were a team. They formed a bond that was a sight to see and Matthew was lucky enough to be able to adopt her when she was done serving our country. Matthew returned to Brockton in 2012 where he joined the Brockton Fire Department, a proud member of the Honor Guard and Local IAFF 144. Matthew proudly served his community for the last 10 years. In addition to his loving mother, Judy and partner Tom Faucher, he is survived by his loving sisters, Courtney Louro and her husband
Kenneth and Casey Goodale and her husband Neil; his adored nieces, Carissa, Kaley, Aubrey and Nora; as well as several cousins, friends that have become family and his brothers at the Brockton Fire Department. He was a 10-year veteran of the fire department and also a decorated Marine. Matt will be missed by all. RIP my friend. In lieu of flowers, donations in Matt’s name would be appreciated to Believe Canine Service Partners (believet.org), a nonprofit organization that pairs service dogs with disabled vets. - Fire News photos by Bob Myers
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Looking Back Lunenburg 2014 On November 10, 2014, a 911 call came in reporting a structure fire in a house built in 1824 on Mulpus Road. Firefighters from Groups 1 and 2 were dispatched. The fire, which was out of the hydrant area, had a great jump on firefighters as first-due companies had to work with only tank water until a hydrant line could be established. Crews from Ashby, Townsend, Ayer, Shirley, Leominster and Fitchburg responded. - Fire News photo by SmokeShowingPhotography.com
Quinebaug - 2014
Boston - 2014
On November 19, 2014, Quinebaug firefighters responded to a shed fire on Linehouse Road. They arrived to a 10- x 12-foot chicken coop fully involved and located close to a two-story wood frame dwelling. The fire was quickly brought under control. Fire News photo by Alan Brackett
On November 2, 2014, Boston firefighters responded to a fouralarm fire in an office building on Beacon Street. Damage was listed at $3 million. - Fire News photo by Bill Noonan
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Fire News, July/August 2022, Page 45
Cover Story
Boston 6-Alarmer
Crews battled a six-alarm blaze in Boston on May 30, 2022. - Fire News photo by Rick Nohl
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Cohasset Fire Department Celebrates Retirement of Chief Robert Silvia The Cohasset (MA) Fire Department celebrated Chief Robert Silvia’s 42-year career with the department in honor of his retirement on April 22, 2022. Chief Silvia, a Cohasset native who has served as the department’s leader for 15 years, began his career with Cohasset Fire in 1979. On April 21, the department held an open house sendoff for those who wanted to wish Chief Silvia well on his retirement. “It sounds cliché, but this is the greatest job in the world. If you love what you do you never work a day in your life. And how did 42 years slip by? It slipped by because I didn’t think about it on a day-to-day basis because I truly loved my job,” Chief Silvia said. “I was blessed to be here. The Town of Cohasset and the people in this town have supported this fire department
Still Responding in Hancock Hancock (MA) recently responded with their 1960’s Dodge Power Wagon (Truck 10) to a barn fire on Main Street. - Fire News photo by Ed Harvey
incredibly well for my 42 years of being here and I imagine that it will continue on that way.” Chief Silvia has held many roles within the department and proudly serves on several county and statewide associations and committees in support of the fire service in Massachusetts. He was promoted to the rank of Captain in 1985, serving as the department’s training officer and records officer. He was appointed to be the Acting Chief in September 2006 before being promoted to Chief in December 2006. Upon Chief Silvia’s retirement, Assistant Fire Chief John Dockray will be promoted to Chief. A swearing-in ceremony is being planned for a later date. - Photo courtesy of Police Chief William Quigley
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Fire News, July/August 2022, Page 47
FOR HE’S A JOLLY GOOD FELLOW… FIREHOUSE SYSTEMS AND THE PANTHER COMPRESSOR
To say I am proud of my father, Fred Gandolfo, would not offer him the justice he deserved. To say I am amazed by my father, would be more fitting, because sometimes we can’t find the right words, we can only feel them. From childhood to this day, I’ve had the opportunity to watch my father pick up any broken object and be able to fix any problem in his personal life or business life; to troubleshoot it and, if any need isn’t met he'd find a way to meet it, especially if solving the problem meant he got to fabricate something. After several years of development, I watched him build what the entire industry knows today as THE CAT. Little did I know then, The CAT would fuel an entire market change. Having my father’s love of the industry and safety of his client base as the driving force behind his design, leads to high quality, safe, efficient equipment. The CAT was only the beginning. After the success of The CAT, my father began to design and produce a new line of Breathing Air Compressors — Panther Compressors. Of course, he offered standardized style systems, as always going above any other compressor manufacturer on the market, offering custom solutions to your need, space, and budget. Recognizing two needs in the industry, my father put the pencil back on the paper and got to sketching out an idea. He wanted to offer a Breathing Air Compressor Trailer
Unit, one that a fire department would actually use. One that would safely operate on scene, one that would operate to its full potential without losing “steam,” one that would be safe for the long-term health of the operator. He needed to find a way to offer an economically friendly, efficient, easy to tow, safe to operate equipment in the middle of a world in the midst of an ecological and economic crisis. With that … I repeat, to say I am proud of my dad, is not enough…nonetheless…We are very proud to introduce the world’s first battery powered breathing air compressor trailer. Made especially for you by my dad, Fred Gandolfo … the Panther ECO. The Panther ECO provides eight hours of run time at full load, emits no diesel or fumes and, most importantly, no thermal runaway! The Panther ECO is available in 10- 15- or 20-horsepower versions. Already have a breathing air trailer? We can upgrade your current system to the Panther ECO, feel free to ask us for your options/! Remember: Go green…choose Panther Compressors. - Liz Gandolfo For more info contact Fred or Liz Gandolfo at 631-661-7515; or Fred at Fred@coastalfiresystems.com or at Liz@coastalfiresystems.com
NATIONAL FIRE SERVICE RESEARCH AGENDA REPORT RELEASED Researchers and fire service practitioners met virtually last year for the 4th National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium resulting in the National Fire Service Research Agenda Report with nearly 300 recommendations. Symposium participants worked in three facilitated working groups to create recommendations to have the most significant impact on firefighter health and safety. The facilitators then submitted the recommendations as worksheets to an expert jury of researchers and fire service representatives. After review, the jury was able to modify and move recommendations to other domains as needed. The report includes the finalized recommendations and the working groups’ original worksheets. The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) hosted the National Fire Service Research Agenda Symposium, and UL’s Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI) was the exclusive sponsor. NFFF Chairman of the Board of Directors Troy Markel said, “Our commitment to create a fire service national research agenda is embedded in the 16 Firefighter Life Safety Initiatives through Initiative 7. But even more critical than that, is our commitment to take a multidisciplinary approach to firefighter health and safety by providing the opportunity for researchers and fire service representatives to map out the future needs of the fire service.” Steve Kerber, Executive Director of FSRI, added, “The research conducted today is without a doubt making a difference in the health and safety of our nation’s firefighters and communities across the
country. It is promising to read these recommendations created with the input of firefighters and envision what the future of fire service research can be.” The report features the working group recommendations based on their domains topical area. The planning committee determined the three domains to be: • Domain #1: Hiring/Retention/ Advancement included recommendations on recruitment, effective leadership, diversity/equity /inclusion/belonging, and hiring, promotion, and retention. • Domain #2: Effective operations included recommendations related to training, tactics, tools, equipment, apparatus, personal protective equipment, and community risk reduction. • Domain #3: Health and safety included recommendations related to wellness, understudied populations, cardiovascular health, cancer, mental health, metabolic health, reproductive health, occupational medical evaluations, fatigue, injury prevention/assessment, violence prevention/risk assessment, and work environment. The 4th National Fire Service Research Agenda Report can be downloaded here: http://www.everyonegoeshome.com/wp-content/uploads/ sites/2/2022/01/research-agenda-symposium-4-report.pdf For more information on the National Fire Service Research Agenda, please contact John Tippett, Director of Fire Service Programs, jtippett@firehero.org.
