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MARCH, 2026
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KYLE GIROUARD NASHUA, NH - A fourth-alarm fire destroyed a building at 440 Amherst Street in Nashua after a natural gas leak led to an explosion on the afternoon of Monday, February 2nd. Crews were dispatched around 3 p.m. for a reported gas leak. While firefighters were on scene investigating, an explosion occurred, trapping three members in rubble.
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March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
RHODE ISLAND
BRISTOL FIRE DEPARTMENT
ASHAWAY VOLUNTEER FIRE ASSOCIATION
Late-N ight R ollover Crash in Ashaw ay Ends W ith S uccessful Rescue ASHAWAY, RI - Just before 10:00 p.m. on January 17th, emer gency crews responded to a serious motor vehicle accident on Juniper Drive involving a single-vehicle rollover with reported entrapment. The Asha way Volunteer Fire Association, Ashaway Ambulance Association, and Hopkinton Police Department were dispatched to the scene, where first-arriving units confirmed a vehicle on its side with one occupant trapped inside. Due to
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the initial severity o f the report, a Life Star medical helicopter was re quested while units were en route, though it was later canceled once conditions were reassessed. Firefighters quickly stabilized the vehicle and deployed hydraulic rescue tools to extricate the occu pant. Within approximately 20 min
utes, the individual was safely re moved and transferred to EMS care. The patient was transported by Ashaway Ambulance to Rhode Is land Hospital in stable condition. Crews remained on scene to as sist with vehicle removal, and all units were back in service by around 11:30 p.m.
- COURTESY OF ASHAWAY VOL. FIRE ASSOCIATION
BRISTOL FIRE DEPARTMENT
No In ju rie s A fte r Heavy Fire Damages B risto l B uilding BRISTOL, Rl - Bristol Fire Department responded to a struc ture fire just after 3 p.m. on January 3rd, finding heavy fire conditions that had already advanced throughout much of the building upon arrival. Firefighters worked aggressively to contain and bring the fire under control, preventing further extension despite challenging conditions. No injuries were reported as a result of the incident. The Rhode Island State Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the cause of the fire. De partment officials expressed appreciation to mutual aid part ners who assisted on scene and provided coverage within the town during the incident.
ASHAWAY VOLUNTEER FIRE ASSOCIATION
March, 2026
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
PAGE 3
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March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
RHODE ISLAND
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CORPORATE INFORMATION 1st Responder N ew s (ISSN 1525-1683) - N ew Eng land edition - Vol. 30, No.3 - is published monthly, 12 times a year for $48 per year by Belsito Com m unica tions, Inc., 1 Ardmore Street, N ew Windsor, NY 12553. Periodicals Postage Paid at Newburgh, NY and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to 1st R esponder News, 1 Ardmore Street, N ew Windsor, NY 12553. N o financial responsibility is assum ed by this newspaper to publish a display, classified, or legal ad or for typographical errors except o f reprinting that part o f the ad which was omitted or in error. Om issions A division of: or errors must be brought to the atten tion o f the newspaper during the same month o f publication. Printed in Canada.
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A ssist a t S econd-A larm S tru c tu re F ire in N ew port NEWPORT, RI — Jamestown Volunteer Fire Department re sponded during the early morning hours o f January 11th after Ladder 1 w as dispatched at 3:01 a.m. on mutual aid to the Newport for sta tion coverage. W hile en route. Ladder 1 was reassigned to a re ported building fire on Second Street. U pon arrival, Jamestown fire fighters assisted N ew port crew s and other responding departments with fire suppression, ventilation, and overhaul operations. D ue to the scope o f the incident, the fire was upgraded to a secon d alarm.
WARREN FIRE DEPARTMENT
The Warren Fire Department recently held an ice rescue training session for firefighters and EMS personnel, even though winter conditions did not provide frozen waterways on the scheduled training date.
Jump td file #011426110
A 3P I ^ bringing additional mutual aid from Jamestown, M iddletown, Portsmouth, North Kingstown, and other surrounding com m uni ties. C rew s operated on scene for approxim ately five hours before bein g released and returning to service.
- COURTESY OF JAMESTOWN VOL. FIRE DEPARTMENT LITTLE COMPTON FIRE DEPARTMENT
On January 16th, members of the Little Compton Fire Department, along with regional mutual aid partners, participated in specialized emergency preparedness training focused on Point of Dispensing (POD) operations.
March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
PAGE 5
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PAGE 6
March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
1 "R e sp o n d er New spaper 1 ARDMORE STREET • NEW WINDSOR, NY 12553 845-534-7500 • (fax) 845-534-0055 • N e w s@ 1 stR e sp o n d e rN e w s.co m
EXECUTIVE STAFF PUBLISHER
JOC BelsitO (Joe® 1stRespondernews.com) GENERAL MANAGER
Kathy Ronsini (Kathy@1stResponderNews.com)
In memory of those who gave all
MANAGING EDITOR
Lindsey Palmer (Lindsey® IstResponderNews.com) PRODUCTION DIRECTOR
Ashley Ramos (Ashley® 1stResponderNews.com) OPERATIONAL MANAGER
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1st Responder Newspaper honors and remembers emergency responders lost in the line of duty
DISPATCHER RECRUITMENT & RETENTION (Rich® 1stResponder.com)
EDITORIAL STAFF COLUMNISTS Rick Billings (Cartoon) Bob Long (Cartoon) John Malecky (Apparatus, Bookshelf) Didymus McHugh (Chaplain’s Corner) Fernando Villicana (Chaplain’s Corner)
CORRESPONDENTS
South Dakota: Nicholas "Nick" Van Dam, 37 Rank: Captain
Pennsylvania: Ed Margavich, 80 Rank: Fire Police Captain
Incident Date: July 26, 2025 Death Date: July 26, 2025 Fire Department: Murdo Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: While responding to the War Creek
Incident Date: Aug. 8, 2025 Death Date: Aug. 15,2025 Fire Department: Third District Volunteer Fire
Fire (Jones County, South Dakota) in a 2,000-gallon ten
Initial Summary: On August 8, 2025, Fire Police
Company
der, Captain Nicholas Van Dam was involved in a motor
Captain Ed M argavich responded with the Third D is
vehicle accident. Captain Van Dam was ejected from the
trict Volunteer Fire Com pany to a vehicle fire that
vehicle as it left the roadway and rolled. Captain Van
spread to a house. After directing traffic at the scene
Nate Arnold •Sterling Beaucage •Jeffrey Belschwinder •Sayje Benjamin •
Dam sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced de
for a while, Fire Police Captain M argavich was walk
David Bowen •David Biyce •Michael Carenza Jr. •Dylan Conway •Doug
ceased at the scene.
Fenichel •Sean Fesko •Ryan Flaherty •Karin Halstead •Jay Heath • Patrick Kerrigan •William King •Lee Krohn •Kenneth Leger •Peter Lobo •Chuck Lowe •Patrick Nlagyar •Phillip NlcCully •Bemie Meehan Jr • Keith Milton •Kevin Mlosio •Brian Owen •Edward Prescott •Greg Ramsdell •Frank Robinson •Coral Ruggiero •Dick Scialabba •Shaun Shattuck • Shane Shifflett •John Sjostedt •Ken Snyder •Robert Sprague •Jack Stawasz •Pat Travers •Peter Walsh Jr •Eugene Weber Jr •Diana White
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ EDITORIAL INFORMATION_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Join our team o f correspondents or columnists! 1st Responder N ewspaper w elcom es subm issions by our readers. Send stories and photos to us at 1Ard more St. N ew Windsor, NY 12553. Or, giv e us a call or send us an e-mail. If using the mail, please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for all sub m issions you wash to have returned. Publisher reserves the right to refuse any editorial or advertising material submitted.
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Florida: Jairus Hodge, 26 Rank: Firefighter/Paramedic Incident Date: July 21, 2025 Death Date: July 22, 2025 Fire Department: St. Lucie County Fire District Initial Summary: While on duty on July 21, 2025, Fire fighter/Paramedic Jairus Hodge became ill and was sent home. The following day on July 22, 2025, while at his home, Firefighter/Paramedic Hodge felt worse and called for help. Firefighter/Paramedic Hodge was trans
News@1 stR esponderN ew s.com
ported to a local hospital where he later passed away.
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The cause o f death has yet to be determined.
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transported to a trauma center and underwent em er gen cy surgery. Due to com plications related to the in jury, however, Fire Police Captain M argavich passed away on August 15, 2025.
New Hampshire: Christopher "Brownie" E. Brown, 42 Rank: Captain Incident Date: Aug. 18, 2025 Death Date: Aug. 19, 2025 Fire Department: Northwood Fire Rescue Initial Summary: On the evening o f August 18, 2025, Captain Christopher Brown participated in forcible entry training with Northwood Fire Rescue. At 3:12 p.m. on
I f you w ould like information about how advertising in 1st Responder N ews can benefit your com pany call our advertising hotline at:
ing to a nearby fire station to get additional equip ment when he fell and broke his femur. H e was
Texas: Michael Eugene Phillips, 66 Rank: Chief Incident Date: July 5, 2025 Death Date: July 5, 2025
August 19,2025, Captain Brown called the fire station
Fire Department: Marble Falls Volunteer Fire
CPR and other lifesaving measures were initiated, Cap
Department
tain Brown was pronounced deceased. The cause o f
Initial Summary: Chief Michael Phillips went missing
death has yet to be determined.
while responding to a call for service on July 5, 2025, during severe storms and flooding that impacted central Texas. The emergency vehicle Chief Phillips was driv ing was swept o ff the roadway by floodwaters. The vehi cle was later discovered, but Chief Phillips was not located with it. After days o f searching, the Marble Falls Area Volunteer Fire Department announced the end o f watch for Chief Phillips on July 15, 2025.
to report that he was in severe back pain and requested an ambulance. Captain Brown was transported to a local hospital where his condition worsened rapidly. Although
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March, 2026
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
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PAGE 8
March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
RHODE ISLAND
MEMORIAL BOARD I f y ou r departm ent has ph otos y o u w ou ld like to se e in our “M em orial B oard”feature please upload them on our w ebsite www. IR B N .com o r em ail them to L in d sey @ lstR esp on d erN ew s.co m
WESTERLY FIRE DEPARTMENT
WESTERLY, Rl - January 3, 2026 — Volunteers from the Westerly Fire Department stood in solemn tribute as Lieutenant Michael Carreiro was laid to rest, honoring a life defined by decades of ded icated public service. Lieutenant Carreiro served the community for 27 years with the Westerly Police Department, retiring with the rank of Lieutenant, and continued his commitment to public safety as a Detective Sergeant with the University of Rhode Island De partment of Public Safety. He was also a longtime member of the Westerly Ambulance Corps, answering the call whenever help was needed. Lieutenant Carreiro passed away while off duty. In coor dination with the Misquamicut Fire Department, Dunn's Corners Fire Department, Watch Hill Fire Department, and URI Public Safety, members lined the procession route throughout town in a powerful show of respect. An American flag was raised between ladder trucks from the Westerly Fire Department and the Kingston Fire Department at URI at River Bend Cemetery, serving as a final salute to a respected officer, colleague, and community servant.
FIREFIGHTER PROFILES
LITTLE COMPTON FIRE DEPARTMENT
Multi-Department Response Brings Structure Fire Under Control in Little Compton LITTLE COM PTON, R l - At approximately 12:50 p.m. on Janu ary 20th, the Little C om pton Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire with vehicle involve ment at 69 O ld Harbor Road. Engine 1, Tanker 1, and Car 1 were dispatched, and upon arrival. Car 1 reported heavy fire conditions on the Charlie side o f the residence, with flames involving both the structure and a vehicle. Due to the intensity o f the fire and winter con ditions, the East Bay Tanker Task-
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39 force was activated to ensure ade quate water supply and resources. First-due crews initiated an ag gressive primary fire attack, while multiple mutual aid departments provided critical assistance. Fire fighters from Tiverton, Westport (MA), Portsmouth, Bristol, Warren, and M iddletown worked alongside Little Com pton crews to bring the
fire under control. The Rhode Island State Fire Marshal’ s O ffice responded to in vestigate the cause. Additional sup port was provided by Little Com pton Police, Little Com pton DPW, Special Signal Fire Association/Providence Canteen, R l DOT, and R l Energy.
- COURTESY OF LITTLE COMPTON FIRE DEPARTMENT
I f your department has photos you would like to see in our “Firefighter Profiles”feature, please upload them on our website, m w .lstR esponderN ew s.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com
WARREN FIRE DEPARTMENT
WARREN, Rl - January 4, 2026— Members of the Warren Fire De partment shared appreciation for retired Chief Galinelli, who con tinues to serve his community with the same dedication that defined his career. Department officials described him as a true supporter of the fire service, noting that his commitment and pos itive presence remain an inspiration to members well into his re tirement. Firefighters thanked Chief Galinelli for his continued support and lifelong dedication to serving the Warren community.
LITTLE COMPTON FIRE DEPARTMENT
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
PAGE 9
March, 2026
The New England Association of Fire Chiefs was awarded a SAFER grant totaling: ★
★
★
★
This SAFER (S ta ffin g fo r A d e q u a te Fire & E m e rg e n c y Response) g ra n t p ro g ra m is to increase th e s ta ffin g levels fo r V o lu n te e r/ C o m b in a tio n Fire D e p a rtm e n ts across N ew E ngland. The following benefits apply to New Recruits of Volunteer Fire Departments. Our Basic Firefighter Training can be used for any Volunteer Emergency Responder on your roster. NFPA1582 Physicals R eceive u p to $ 4 0 0 p e r f ir e f ig h t e r fo r an N FP A 1 5 8 2 -c o m p lia n t p h y s ic a l t h a t c o n fir m s a F it fo r D u ty s ta tu s — h e lp in g e n s u re y o u r te a m is h e a lth y , c a p a b le , a n d re a d y to serve.
Firefighter & EMS Training G e t u p to $2 ,5 0 0 p e r m e m b e r to c o v e r tr a in in g fo r F irst R e sp o n d e r, EMT, F ir e fig h te r I, a n d F ir e fig h te r II. F u n d in g c a n be u se d fo r tra v e l-re la te d exp e n se s, in c lu d in g m ile a g e , lo s t w a g e s , m e als, a n d lo d g in g .
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) S e c u re u p to $4,125 fo r a fu ll s e t o f s tr u c tu r a l PPE fo r n e w v o lu n te e r f ir e f ig h t e r re c ru its w h o ha ve passed an N FP A 1582 p h y s ic a l a n d are e n ro lle d in — o r ha ve c o m p le te d — F ir e fig h te r I tr a in in g .
NEWENCLANDFIRECHIEFS.ORG
★
★
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March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
MEMORIAL BOARD I f you r departm ent has ph otos y o u w ou ld like to se e in our “M em orial B oard”feature please u pload them on our w ebsite www. IR B N .com or em ail them to L in d sey @ lstR esp on d erN ew s.co m
WELLS FIRE DEPARTMENT
Wells Firefighters Quickly Extinguish Vehicle Fire on Maine Turnpike WELLS, ME - The Wells Fire Department responded Thursday af ternoon, January 24th, to a fully in volved vehicle fire on the Maine Turnpike, bringing a swift and coor dinated response that prevented in juries and limited the duration o f traffic disruption. At approximately 1:32 p.m.. Wells Fire was dispatched to M ile Marker 23 northbound for a re ported vehicle fire, with smoke vis ible from several m iles away. Engine 3, Tank 2, and the Fire Chief responded, along with Wells EMS. Upon arrival, crews found an SUV fully involved in the break down lane. Firefighters immediately
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m a9
stretched a P/i-inch hoseline and placed water on the fire, quickly gaining control. Tank 2 supplied En gine 3 while Maine State Police closed the two nearest travel lanes to ensure responder safety. Due to the working fire and highway conditions, a recall was initiated to provide coverage at the Wells fire station. An Ogunquit Fire Department engine covered the sta tion until off-duty personnel arrived. There were no reported injuries. Fire suppression operations were
completed within approximately 20 minutes, after which crews turned the scene back over to Maine State Police and returned to service. The Wells Fire Department thanked Wells EMS, Maine State Police, Ogunquit Fire Department, and Maine Turnpike Authority per sonnel for their assistance, noting that incidents on limited-access highways require rapid coordination and teamwork to ensure public and firefighter safety..
- COURTESY OF WELLS FIRE DEPARTMENT
GORHAM FIRE DEPARTMENT
January 5, 2026— The Gorham Fire Department extended con dolences to the Windham Fire Department and the Portland Fire Department following the passing of Deputy Chief John Kooistra. Kooistra retired from the Portland Fire Department with the rank of Lieutenant after an accomplished 28-year career and later joined the Windham Fire Department in 2019 as Deputy Chief Of EMS
BROTHERS & SISTERS OF THE EMERGENCY SERVICES Ify ou have photos you would like to see in our "Brothers & Sisters o f the Emergency Services”feature, please upload them on ourwebsite. ww w .lstResponderNew s.com orem ailthem toLindsey@ lstResponderN ew s.com .
Known throughout Maine as a passionate educator and advo cate for advancing emergency medical services, Deputy Chief Kooistra taught and mentored countless medical providers across the region, including members of the Gorham Fire De partment. Colleagues remembered him as a kind, humble, and highly respected professional and mutual aid partner. After a courageous battle with cancer, his loss is deeply felt across the fire and EMS community. The Gorham Fire Department expressed its thoughts and prayers to Deputy Chief Kooistra’s family, friends, and cowork ers during this difficult time, honoring his lasting impact and dedicated service.
Visit us online for more news around the states. www.1rbn.com
CAMDEN FIRE & RESCUE
Smiles say it all as members of Camden Fire & Rescue marked the final day of their EMT class, bringing weeks of hard work and dedication to a close. The group completed the final day of travel to South Thomaston, fulfilled all course requirements through Kennebec Valley Community College, and now looks ahead to final testing and licensure through Maine EMS. Congratulations to Connor Howland, Brandon Graffam, Tim Beynart, and Bennett Cohen on reaching this important milestone. Appreciation is also extended to program coordinator Candie Davis, the associate instructors, and fellow class mates who supported them throughout the process.
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
March, 2026
PAGE 11
CUMBERLAND FIRE DEPARTMENT WEILS FIRE DEPARTMENT
Secondary Crash on 1-95 in Wells Injures Driver, Highlights Dangers to First Responders
CUMBERLAND FIRE DEPARTMENT
Cumberland Firefighters Assist at Second-Alarm in Gray
WELLS, ME - The Wells Fire Department was requested on Janu ary 9th to respond to a secondary motor vehicle accident on Interstate 95 northbound in Wells, approxi mately a quarter mile south o f an earlier crash scene. Earlier in the day, the Ogunquit Fire Department had responded to a minor accident just south o f the Wells on-ramp, where no serious injuries were re ported. While the Maine State Police were blocking the high-speed lane to protect the vehicle, driver, and emer gency crews, a state police cruiser was struck from behind by another
Jump t o file #011626130
vehicle traveling at highway speeds. Wells Fire Department Engine 3 responded quickly using the Little field emergency turnpike access road. Upon arrival, firefighters as sessed the scene and worked along side Wells EMS to care for both occupants involved in the crash. Both vehicles sustained heavy dam age and were declared total losses. The driver o f the vehicle that struck the cruiser was transported from the
scene with unknown injuries, while the state police officer was evaluated on scene and declined medical treat ment. The incident was cleared within approximately one hour o f the crash. Fire officials emphasized the in cident as a reminder o f the serious risks faced by first responders oper ating on high-speed roadways and urged motorists to remain alert, slow down, and move over when ap proaching emergency scenes.
- COURTESY OF WELLS FIRE DEPARTMENT
LITTLE BIG GUYS I f you have photos you w ou ld like to s ee in our Little B ig Guys feature, please upload them on our w ebsite www. 1stR esponderN ew s.com or em ail them to L ind sey@ lstR espond erN ew s.com .
GRAY, ME - On January 8th, Cumberland Fire Department units operated on scene at a second-alarm fire in the Town of Gray, assisting the Gray Fire Rescue. Cumberland En gine 102 and Heavy Rescue 103 were dispatched on mutual aid, with Heavy Rescue 103 initially assigned as the Rapid Intervention Team before being reassigned to provide ad ditional manpower, assisting with fire attack and overhaul operations. Engine 102 was tasked with establishing and maintaining water supply, shuttling approximately 12,000gallons of water to support suppression efforts. Crews worked alongside regional partners as operations contin ued to bring the fire under control.
CHUCK LOWE
Casco Squad 68 is a 2023 Ford F-550/E-One 1250/300/20F.
PAGE 12
March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
Second-Alarm F ire D isplaces Nine on Chase Avenue in W a te rv ille
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family members were displaced, and one occupant was transported to the emergency department for treatment o f smoke inhalation. The American Red Cross is assisting the displaced family. The cause o f the fire remains under investigation by the Maine State Fire Marshal’ s Office. Waterville Fire-Rescue ex pressed appreciation to assisting agencies, including W inslow Fire Department, Fairfield Benton Emergency Services, Oakland Fire Rescue, Skowhegan Fire Depart ment, Delta Ambulance, Water ville Police Department, and Waterville Public Works.
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WATERVILLE, ME - At ap proximately 3:15 a.m. on January 14th, Waterville Fire-Rescue re sponded to a re ported structure fire at 12 Chase Avenue. On arrival, fire fighters encoun tered a two-story single-family resi dence with heavy fire showing. The on-duty Battalion C hief immediately struck a second alarm, bringing additional mutual aid resources to the scene. Crews were able to achieve a quick knockdown o f the fire; how ever, the home sustained signifi cant fire and water damage. Nine
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AUGUSTA FIRE DEPARTMENT
Augusta Firefighters Honor Retired Members at Hartford Station Breakfast GUNDY’S HARBOR VOL. FIRE DEPARTMENT
AUGUSTA, ME - Members of Augusta Uniformed Firefighters IAFF Local 1650 gathered at Hartford Station on January 15th to host a Retiree Breakfast celebrating the department’s re tired firefighters. The event drew an excellent turnout, bring ing together current and former members to share stories, laughter, and camaraderie that highlighted the strong bonds within the Augusta fire service. Union officials said the break fast was organized to remind retirees that they remain appre ciated, valued, and an enduring part of the fire family, with hopes of making the gathering a lasting tradition. Special thanks were extended to FF/Paramedic Baldwin for preparing breakfast for attendees, as well as to all retired members who took the time to attend and reconnect with colleagues.
Cundy’s Harbor Crews Assist at Fully Involved Structure Fire; Nearby Home Saved CUNDY'S HARBOR, ME - The Cundy’s Harbor Volunteer Fire Department responded alongside the Orr’s and Bailey Islands Fire Department, Harpswell Neck Fire & Rescue, and the Brunswick Fire Department on January 23rd to a structure fire that was heavily involved upon arrival. The building was determined to be beyond saving when initial crews arrived. Firefighters confirmed all occupants had safely evacuated prior to fire department arrival. Despite the loss of the struc ture, coordinated suppression efforts successfully protected a neighboring residence located less than 25-feet away, preventing further damage and additional displacement.
March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
PAGE 13
Two Drivers Extricated After Head-On Crash on Route 236 in South Berwick SOUTH BERWICK, ME Emergency crews from South Berwick and neighboring com m u nities responded to a serious head-on motor vehicle crash on Route 236 near O ld M ill Road on Monday, January 27th, at approxi mately 12:50 p.m. South Berwick Fire, South Berwick Police, and York Ambulance were dispatched to the scene and found two heavily damaged vehicles with a large debris field spread across the roadway. Both drivers were trapped inside their vehicles upon arrival. Firefighters from Engine 1 and
Engine 4 deployed hydraulic res cue tools to perform simultaneous extrications. Due to the severity o f the incident, Dover Fire & Rescue responded with a second ambu lance to assist with patient care and transport. Both drivers were successfully extricated and trans ported to local hospitals for treat ment. No additional details on their conditions were immediately available. Follow ing the extrications, emergency crews cleared the wreckage and debris from the roadway. Route 236 was reopened a short time later.
- COURTESY OF SOUTH BERWICK FIRE DEPARTMENT
SOUTH BERWICK FIRE DEPARTMENT
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PAGE 14
March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
Early-Morning Exterior Fire on East Road in Colchester Contained
WEST BURKE FIRE DEPARTMENT
Mutual Aid Assists in Containing West Burke Barn Fire WEST BURKE, VT - Firefighters from West Burke and East Burke were dispatched shortly before 10 p.m. on January 3rd, to a reported barn fire on Burke Hollow Road in West Burke. Upon arrival, crews confirmed a working fire and quickly re quested additional mutual aid from Sutton Volunteer Fire De partment and Lyndonville Fire Department, with Lyndon Rescue Inc. providing medical standby. Thanks to a rapid and coordinated response, the fire was knocked down efficiently, preventing extension to nearby structures. No injuries were reported, and the Burke Town Road crew promptly addressed icy road conditions while St. Johnsbury Emergency Dispatch coordinated communications throughout the incident.
COLCHESTER FIRE DEPARTMENT
COLCHESTER, VT - Just be fore 4:00 a.m. on January 16th, the Colchester Fire Department, along side Colchester Rescue Squad and the Colchester Police Department, re sponded to a reported building fire at 2127 East Road. Due to the home’ s location in a non-hydranted area, the incident was upgraded early to in clude additional tankers and mutual aid resources. Upon arrival, crews encoun tered smoke coming from an exte rior wall o f the structure. Firefighters quickly gained access and confirmed a moderate smoke condition on the first floor, with all occupants and pets safely evacuated. Further investigation revealed fire involvement on the exterior o f the building, which crews accessed and extinguished promptly, preventing extension into the interior. Overhaul operations were com pleted, utilities were secured, and the structure was thoroughly checked to ensure no remaining haz ards. The cause o f the fire remains under investigation. Colchester Fire Department thanked its mutual aid partners, including Essex, Winooski, Milton, and VTANG Fire Depart ments, for their assistance during the early-morning response.
- COURTESY OF COLCH ESTER FIRE DEPARTMENT
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FERRISBURGH VOL. FIRE DEPT.
Quick Action Contains Chimney Fire in Ferrisburgh
CAMBRIDGE FIRE DEPARTMENT, VERMONT
Members of the Cambridge Fire Department recently took part in a focused and energetic training session centered on self-con tained breathing apparatus (SCBA) donning.
FERRISBURGH, VT - On the evening o f January 5th, the Ferris burgh Fire Department responded to a reported chimney fire at a resi dence on H ollow Road. The call came in at approximately 6:17 p.m., prompting the response o f Engine 1 along with a tanker to support op erations. Upon arrival, firefighters con firmed an active chimney fire and immediately began coordinated mitigation efforts. Crews safely cleared the fireplace, removed burning debris, and addressed re-
JUMPTO FILE #011026126
30 maining hot spots within the chim ney system. A comprehensive in spection followed, including checks o f the attic and surrounding wall spaces, to ensure the fire had not ex tended beyond the chimney struc ture. The incident was successfully contained with no reported injuries and minimal damage to the home. Fire officials credited the hom e
owner’ s quick thinking— closing the damper and using fire extin guishers prior to arrival— as a key factor in preventing further fire spread. The Ferrisburgh Fire Depart ment reminds residents that chim ney fires are often caused by creosote buildup and stresses the importance o f annual chimney in spections and cleanings, especially during the winter heating season.
- COURTESY OF FERRIS BURGH VOL. FIRE DEPT.
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
March, 2026
PAGE 15
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PAGE 16
March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
Grand Isle Fire Honors Grand Isle/N orth Hero Rescue w ith Dave Cameron Award
GRANDISLEVOLUNTEERFIRE DEPARTMENT
GRAND ISLE, VT - The Grand Isle Volunteer Fire Department held its annual dinner January 19th, bringing together firelighters, auxil iary members, and their partners for an evening o f fellowship away from the firehouse and off the fireground. During the event, the department pre sented its annual Dave Cameron Award, which recog nizes individuals or organizations with a long-standing com mitment to support ing Grand Isle Fire and its mission. This year’ s award was presented to Grand Isle/North Hero Rescue in recognition o f their many years o f close collaboration on emergency scenes, joint training efforts, and continued mutual support across a wide range o f calls. Fire officials thanked Ray, Patti, and Patrick o f Grand Isle/North Hero Rescue for attending the din ner and accepting the award, noting the strong partnership between the departments and expressing appre ciation for their ongoing dedication.
- COURTESY OF GRAND ISLE VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT
Early-Morning Fire Destroys Liberty Street Apartment Building in Swanton SWANTON, VT - An earlymorning structure fire on January 19th destroyed a two-unit apartment build ing on Liberty Street after Swanton Village Fire Depart ment was dispatched at 5:24 a.m. for reports of heavy smoke and a visible glow in the area. Responding units included Engine 2, Ladder 4, Engine 3, and Car 5, which ar rived to find Hie build ing heavily involved. Initial crews deployed two handlines and worked to establish a water supply, though ef forts were complicated by a frozen hy drant near the scene. Improved water access was achieved once additional apparatus arrived. One tenant was home at the time and reported the fire started in the kitchen. The occupant attempted to extinguish the fire with a fire extin guisher, but was unsuccessful and ex ited the building after sustaining minor bums to the hands. The individual was transported to a local hospital for treat ment. The second apartment was un occupied at Hie time. Despite an aggressive fire attack. Hie building was deemed a total loss, and a nearby structure sustained heat and water damage. Swanton Fire De partment was assisted by St. Albans Town FD, Highgate Vol. FD, Alburgh Volunteer FD, Missisquoi Valley Res cue, Swanton Police, Central Dis patch, and St. Annand FD.
- COURTESY OF SWANTON VILLAGE FIRE DEPARTMENT
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PAGE 17
March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
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LOUDON, NH - On January 20th at 10:15 p.m., the Loudon fire department along with automatic mutual aid was dis patched to 115 Berry Road for a chimney fire with extension. Firefighters arrived to find heavy smoke showing from the one-and-a-half-story cape. The family and their dog escaped without injury. Loudon Deputy Chief William Lake said they had smoke pouring from the entire length of the roof. "We were pretty confident we had a pretty good fire in the attic, which is what was happening. We basically had crews go in, they opened up the ceiling, got into the attic and extin guished the fire." Fire damage was contained mostly to the roof and attic, but Lake said the rest of the house suffered water damage. The fire is under investigation.
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PAGE 18
March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
IN SERVICE If y ou have photos you w ould like to see in our In Service feature, please upload them on our w ebsite w w w .lstR esponderN ew s.com or em ail them to L ind sey@ lstR espond erN ew s.com .
CHUCK LOWE
Sandwich operates this 2023 Spartan MetroStar/Alexis 1250/2000 as Engine 2.
FREMOHT HH FIRE RESCUE DEPARTMEHT
M ulti-A gency Response Supports Farm Anim al Rescue in Frem ont
CHUCK LOWE
In 2023, West Ossipee acquired this 2010 Pierce Velocity with a 1985 Baker 95' Aerialscope that was previously owned by Sayville, New York.
EMERGENCY AIRCRAFT I f you have photos you w ould like to see in our E m ergency Aircraft feature, please upload them on our w ebsite w w w .lstR esponderN ew s.com or em ail them to L ind sey@ lstR espond erN ew s.com .
FREMONT, NH - On January 2nd, members o f the Fremont NH Fire Rescue Department arrived at a nearby farm to help rescue a large animal. When a horse stum bled on ice and was unable to get back up, crews were called. A number o f firefighters who had firsthand expertise with horses assisted in directing operations and
On January 22nd, the North Walpole Fire & Rescue Department aided with a medical helicopter operation after being asked to help set up a landing zone following a motor vehicle collision. Firefight ers collaborated with the Rockingham Fire Department and the Golden Cross Ambulance to provide medical care and transporta tion. Crews set up and secured a landing zone at the North Walpole School to allow the DHART medical helicopter to safely land.
gave members advice on safe lift ing and positioning methods. R e sponders were able to help the horse safely regain its footing with the support o f the horse's owners and an on-site veterinarian. After
that, the horse was put back in its stall to warm up. The Fremont NH Police D e partment helped with traffic con trol and scene aid.
- COURTESY OF FREMONT NH FIRE RESCUE DEPARTMENT
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1st Responder Newspaper - NE
March, 2026
PAGE 19
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March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
4th Alarm Fire, Gas Explosion Destroys Amherst Street Building in Nashua NASHUA, NH - A fourthalarm fire destroyed a building at 440 Amherst Street in Nashua after a natural gas leak led to an explo sion on the after noon o f Monday, February 2nd. Crews were dis patched around 3 p.m. for a reported gas leak. While fire fighters were on scene investigating, an explosion o c curred, trapping three members in rubble. The firefighters transmit ted a Mayday, which was quickly cleared after members from Lad der 1 assisted them to safety. All three firefighters were transported to the hospital. The explosion and resulting fire destroyed the building. The fire was brought under control after approximately three hours. Mutual aid departments from across the area responded to the scene and provided station cover age throughout the city.
- KYLE GIROUARD Crews stretching a 2.5 inch line for fire attack.
KYLE GIROUARD
KYLE GIROUARD
Nashua Ladder 1 positioned on the A side of the building.
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
March, 2026
PAGE 21
nIRILLS/TRAINING To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our w ebsite w w w .lstR esponderN ew s.com or em ail them to L indsey@ lstR esponderN ew s.com
DERRY, NH - In order to assess new equipment, the Derry, NH Fire Department held ice rescue training in January. As part of a controlled exercise to test the department's new Rapid Deployment Craft, sometimes known as a banana boat, Battalion 4 purposefully went into the ice. The craft's design spreads weight to increase safety while enabling firefighters to swiftly reach patients on unstable ice. In winter conditions, crews tested deployment, moving across the ice, and rescue tactics. In order to ensure safe and efficient operations during cold-weather crises, ice rescue training is an essential component of winter readiness.
DERRY, NH FIRE DEPARTMENT
DERRY, NH FIRE DEPARTMENT
B itte r Cold Complicates Perch Pond Road Structure Fire in Campton CAMPTON, NH - On Friday, January 2nd just after 7:30 a.m., the Campton-Thomton Fire R es cue, the W oodstock Fire Department, the Campton Police Department, and Plymouth Fire-Res cue were sent to Perch Pond Road in Campton due to a reported building fire. A detached garage fire was re ported at first. The chief o f the N ew Hamp ton Fire Department and an offduty member o f the CTFD responded promptly and verified that a large structure was well-in volved with no exposures. The H olderness Fire Department, Ashland Fire Department, and Waterville Valley Department o f Public Safety were asked to pro vide extra equipment and staff for a first-alarm assignment. Engine 1 from CTFD Station 3 was the first engine on scene, with Engine 3 arriving shortly thereafter. Engine 3 laid a supply line down the driveway while En gine 1 began fire attack. Crews worked for approximately 40 minutes to knock down the bulk o f the fire and remained on scene for an additional two hours extin guishing hot spots. Operations were impacted by bitter cold tem peratures, which caused icing on supply lines and discharges and
CAMPTON-THORNTON FIRE RESCUE placed additional strain on person nel. Waterville Valley Engine 1 set up a water source at a nearby bridge, and other equipment trans ported water to the location. The garage was completely destroyed.
along with all o f its belongings, which included two cars and other tools. There were no reported in juries. Although the origin o f the fire is still being investigated, it is thought to be electrical in nature
and not suspicious. While an en gine from the Rumney Fire D e partment covered CTFD Station 1, a cover ambulance from Stewart's Ambulance Service responded to a different medical call in Thornton. Campton-Thornton Fire Rescue
expressed gratitude to Plymouth Police Dispatch, N ew Hampshire 911, and Lakes R egion Mutual Fire Aid for their support.
- COURTESY OF CAMPTONTHORNTON FIRE RESCUE
PAGE 22
March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
JOBS and the Firemen Who Fought Them ON THE BOOK SHELF by John Malecky
JOBS and the firemen who fought them By Frank Saia Available from: FSP Books 433 Main Street, Suite 2A Hudson, M AO 1749 1-800-522-8528 Email: support@fire-policeems.com www.fire-police-ems.com Price: $60.00 This is a hard cover coffee table book measuring 9 inches by 12 inches, with 217 pages. The author is a correspondent for 1st Responder News. I do not know him personally, but see his photos in the N ew Jersey edition o f the paper quite often. He is a retired battalion chief from the Camden, NJ Fire Department and has a full page to tell the reader about him self. He is an excellent fire and apparatus photographer who takes pictures as a labor o f love, which will be evident to every reader. A G od Fearing Man (after my own heart), the b ook is en
tirely o f both black and white, as w ell as color photos o f Philadel phia, Camden and other N ew Jer sey towns within the area. Some o f the photos include single shots o f firefighters o f all ranks with their names as w ell as groups o f them posing for his camera. Many o f the photos name the individuals in them. The photos are from all different times. One group is from the Cam pbell Soup Company which is in Camden. If you never knew that they had a fire, well they did in 1992 that went to three alarms. Sears Roebuck, a massive com plex in Philadelphia also had a fire in 1994 that went to four alarms. Also, One Meridian Plaza in Philadelphia (1991), in which three firefighters died, is covered. The PFD actually stretched five inch hose into the building under the direction o f the fire com m is sioner. The story o f the “ Fire Pole” which originated in Chicago back in the days o f horses, is on page 95 along with a photo o f the fire pole in Camden E-7’ s quarters. He is a family man fully supported by his w ife in living his dream, and by his daughter, who is a firefighter/EMT in Westmont where they reside. His daughter is featured in several photos on page 87. If you are fire service oriented, you w ill enjoy this b ook where both career and volunteer fire de partments are featured.
Submitting photos and press releases is EASY! Register at www.1rbn.com to begin posting directly. Prefer emails? Email your press release and photos directly to lindsey@1 strespondernews. com
JAY HEATH PHOTOS
Bystander P ulls Resident from Burning Berry Home Before Crews A rrive DERRY, NH - On January 27th at approximately 7:07 p.m., the Derry Fire Communications D ivi sion received a 911 call reporting a house on fire at 91 Tsienneto Road in the Town o f Derry. The initial re port o f the fire also indicated that one occupant had been removed from the building by a bystander. The on-duty telecommunication immediately dispatched all Derry resources. Car 1, Engine 1, Engine 2, Ladder 3, Ladder 4, and Medic 1. Automatic aid was also requested and received, including London derry Engine, Londonderry Battal ion Chief, and Salem Ambulance. 91 Tsienneto Road is a 1,200square-foot single-family residence
Jumpto fiie #020326161
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and was occupied by 1 adult at the time o f the fire. The first fire depart ment unit arrived on the scene in 4 minutes and 33 seconds and en countered a large amount o f smoke and fire in the enclosed porch area on the right side o f the residence. Crews initiated an aggressive attack on the fire and conducted a thorough search o f the building. Additional resources at the scene included the Derry Fire Marshal and Fire inspec tor, Derry Police, Derry DPW, and the Windham, Auburn, Chester, Manchester, Hampstead, and
Sandown Fire Departments. The fire was brought under con trol at 8:00 p.m. Throughout the in cident, station coverage was maintained by the Hudson, Nasua, Kingston, and Pelham Fire Depart ments to ensure continuous service for the community. Off-duty fire de partment members were called back to the fire stations to assist with sev eral other calls for service. Fortunately, no occupants or firefighters were seriously injured during the incident. The cause has been determined to be accidental, but remains under investigation.
- DERRY FIRE DEPT.
SEAH FESKO/911 ERV
Laundromat Fire Quickly Doused in Concord CONCORD, NH - On Sunday morning, January 25th, the Concord, NH Fire Department was dispatched to a reported structure fire at a laundromat on Manchester Street. Engine 7 arrived to find smoke coming from the single-story building and declared a working fire. Crews lo cated a fire inside a dryer, brought it under control quickly, and cleared additional responding units, with some companies reassigned to provide station coverage.
March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
PAGE 23
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PAGE 24
March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
UNITY FIRE DEPARTMENT ASSOCIATION
Unity Fire Responds to Single-Vehicle Crash on NH Turnpike UNITY, NH - On January 6th, the Unity Fire Department Asso ciation was called to a reported single-vehicle collision on the Second New Hampshire Turnpike. Golden Cross Ambu lance and Unity Fire were sent in response to reports of sev eral patients. When emergency workers arrived, they discovered that every person inside the car had already selfextricated. EMS and fire personnel assessed patients and ad ministered care as required. There were no known life-threatening injuries. While EMS performed patient as sessments, firefighters helped with traffic management and scene safety. All units were cleared and put back into service when operations were finished and the road was made safe.
KINGSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT
One Injured as Flames Destroy Detached Garage in Kingston KINGSTON, NH - A reported structure fire near 5 Shendoar Road on January 4th prompted the Kingston Fire Department to re spond. When Engine 3 arrived, the de tached garage was completely en gulfed. After extending a hoseline, crews started suppressing the flames. The fire was put out by
Jump to file #011426140 *4
a s
Kingston Fire and mutual aid or ganizations. Firefighters performed overhaul operations after the garage collapsed. One person with bum in juries was taken from the area. Exeter, Plaistow, East
Kingston, Danville, Newton, Hampstead, Merrimac, Haverhill, Epping, Amesbury Ambulance, Fremont, and Brentwood all offered mutual aid support.
- COURTESY OF KINGSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT
ACTION SHOTS If you have photos you w ould like to see in our “Action Shots”feature, please upload them on our website, w w w .lstR esponderN ew s.com or email them to L in dsey@ lstR esponderN ew s.com .
KINGSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT PATRICK KERRIGAN
Nashua firefighters responded to a gas leak at 440 Amherst St on the afternoon of 2/2/26.
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
March, 2026
PAGE 25
Letter to a friend Chaplain’s Corner Didymus McHugh
My friend, I know that you have gone through tough times. Your marriage was tough, and it did not last. Sometimes, we go through this for reasons that we cannot figure out. I know that many times we hear peo ple say that we should stay together but sometimes we are abused. You have been betrayed by someone that was close to you, and you trusted this person. Many times, we would not want to forgive this person, but you have risen above it and continue to show love to them. I know that you are uncomfort able being around people. I know that at times most if not all o f us feel that way one time or another. There are times when we need to be present not only to help others but also ourselves. Someone told you that you did not have the skill or talent to do what you felt in your heart to do. There are people that always try to put us down. Are they jealous or just mean spirited? There are times that if we are willing to learn, we can be very successful. I f we let others speak into our lives, we need to make sure that we have the right people, and that includes what we tell ourselves. People who may be challenging may be put into our lives. It is how
we let them affect our lives that re ally matters. You are better than they think. They do not see your true po tential. You may have dreams, while you sleep, that may seem real. Is there something that you need to do that is now eating at you? Or are you seeing something about the future? You get inspiration to do something or a warning. Let's hope we remem ber what we need to. I watch as you go through your challenges and many times, I see some o f the same things that I have lived through. It is when we have walked similar paths that we develop empathy and be there to support one another. I know that at times, you may be depressed and want to give up but I ask you to press on and fight the good fight. Sure, take a little time to lick your wounds and regroup for your next attack on life but don't give up. You have no idea who is watching you and what example that you are setting for the person who says nothing but only watches you. You are my dear friend, and I have watched how you have grown. Lean into Psalms. Know that the fight is not over yet because God has not called you home. You still have a mission. Your work is not done. You have not finished effecting peo ple's lives and have not met all the people that God wants you to meet. Have faith. God loves you and so do I. Blessings, Didymus McHugh didymus-mchugh.com
SEAN FESKO/911 ERV
Multiple ladder pipes and handlines were utilized to knock down the fire.
3+ Alarms Needed for Francestown Blaze During Snow Storm FRANCE ST OWN, NH Shortly after 1:00 p.m. on January 25th, the Francestown, NH Fire D e partment was dispatched to a fire alarm activation on Main Street. Within a minute, the response was upgraded to a first alarm follow ing a telephone report o f an active fire. Command arrived within five min utes and reported heavy fire show ing from a two-story residence, prompting a second alarm and a re quest for an additional ladder truck.
Jump t o file #012626125
m a9
Mutual aid companies from sur rounding communities responded as crews worked to contain the blaze. Firefighters operated in both defen sive and offensive m odes due to the significant fire load and the presence o f a lithium-ion battery in the base ment. A s conditions worsened, a third alarm was struck, along with a
special request for additional tankers to support water supply op erations. The incident unfolded at the onset o f a major snowstorm, adding challenging conditions including heavy snowfall, subzero wind chills, and slick roadways. While crews battled the fire, mutual aid units also handled motor vehicle accidents in town and provided station coverage.
- SEAN FESKO
Additional news from around New England can be found on our website at www.1rbn.com SEAN FESKO/911 ERV
PAGE 26
March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
APPARATUS IN ACTION I f you have photos you w ould like to see in our Apparatus in Action feature please upload them on our w ebsite w w w .lstR esponderN ew s.com or em ail them to L ind sey@ lstR espond erN ew s.com .
STRATFORD CT FIRE DEPARTMENT RYAN FLAHERTY
Plainfield Engine 195, a 2011 Spartan/Crimson, on scene of a house fire at 41 Pratt Road in Plainfield, 1/23/26.
RYAN FLAHERTY
S econd-A larm F ire Damages M u ltip le Homes in S tra tfo rd STRATFORD, CT - The Strat ford Communication Center re ceived several 911 calls on Wednesday, January 7th at around 3:06 a.m., reporting smoke and fire emanating from residential build ings around 27-35 Shoreline Drive. Assistant Chief Timothy Bren nan o f the Stratford Fire Depart ment directed the deployment o f a residential structure fire assign ment. When first-due companies arrived, the fire was spreading quickly from the original property to nearby houses on both sides. Due to the progression o f the inci dent, the response was upgraded to a second-alarm assignment, bring-
TD FILE #011226104
an I » ing in remaining on-duty com pa nies and additional staff officers. In addition to establishing pri mary and secondary water supply, crews sought to stop the spread o f the fire. Limited vision on the water-facing side o f the structures affected operations. Every resident left the house safely. The American Red Cross was asked for help after two residents were forced to relo cate. Additionally, Stratford EMS units were on the scene. The Connecticut State Fire Marshal Office, along with the
Stratford Fire Marshal's Office, is still investigating the cause o f the fire. Fleavy machinery was needed to help with overhaul operations because o f significant fire damage and structural instability. The Bridgeport Fire Department and the M ilford Fire Department pro vided station coverage during the incident. The Stratford Fire Department reminds residents to maintain working smoke detectors, practice home escape plans regularly, and call 911 immediately upon observ ing smoke or fire.
- COURTESY OF STRATFORD CT FIRE DEPT.
Norwich Engine 3 on scene of a house fire at 476 New London Turnpike, 1/23/26.
Submitting photos and press releases is EASY! Register at www.1rbn.com to begin posting directly. Prefer emails? Email your press release and photos directly to Lindsey@1 strespondernews. com STRATFORD CT FIRE DEPARTMENT
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
March, 2026
PAGE 27
CONNECTICUT
FIREFIGHTER PROFILES If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Firefighter Profiles”feature, please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@l stResponderNews.com
EAST LITCHFIELD FIRE CO. RYAN FLAHERTY
The second hose line was stretched to the rear and knocked down the exterior fire.
Norwich Battles Second Alarm NORWICH, CT - At 8:57 p.m. on Thursday, 1/29/26, the Norwich Fire Department with East Great Plain Ladder 5 & Rescue 5, Laurel Hill Engine 62, Mohegan Tribal FAST and an American Ambulance were dispatched to 53 Sunny side Avenue for a house fire. The report ing party from 16 Clay Avenue said they could see the back o f a house on fire through the woods. Battalion 1 arrived at 9:02 p.m. with heavy fire from the Bravo/Charlie corner o f a twostory residence. Engine 3 stretched a 1.75”hose line through the front and knocked the bulk o f the fire. Squad A laid in from the hydrant on the com er o f Sunnyside and Clay, but then reported the hydrant was frozen. Follow ing that. Squad A pulled a 3-inch line to Engine 3 and gave them their 500-gallons o f tank
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3P water. Engine 2 pulled a 1.75”hose line to the rear and knocked down the porch that was burning. Engine 62 laid in from a hydrant on the com er o f Sunnyside & Laurel Hill and tied into the supply line the Squad laid. Tmck 1 performed the primary search and then went to the roof for vertical ventilation. The second alarm was trans mitted at 9:11 p.m., which added Yantic Engine 33, Preston Engine 11, Taftville Truck 25 and Sub Base FAST. A third hose line was then stretched to the second floor. Norwich Police carried a victim out to the street and Mohegan Tribe loaded them into a stokes basket.
~
'
The victim was then brought down the hill, where care was turned over to American Ambulance. A short while later, American Ambulance transported a second victim. Car 1 had command. Battalion 1 was operations. Car 10 had ac countability, Car 6 had the Charlie Sector and Car 5 had staging. The Norwich Fire Marshal’ s Office is investigating. Norwich Public Utilities se cured the power and the American Red Cross is assisting the displaced family. Norwich Public Works and State DOT assisted with icing con ditions because the temperature was 8 degrees. Yantic Engine 31 covered Headquarters while Occum Engine 41 covered Greeneville.
- RYAN FLAHERTY
Timothy S. Hill, President of the Governor Wolcott Branch of the Connecticut Sons of the American Revolution, gave East Litch field Vol. Firefighter Michael J. Brunetto, Jr. the Fire Safety Com mendation Award on January 12th. Since 1998, Brunetto has worked as a fireman, lieutenant, junior program coordinator, and trustee for the East Litchfield Fire Co. He has volunteered with the Litchfield Vol. Ambulance and the Bantam Fire Co. in addition to serving in East Litchfield.
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ext. 212 RYAN FLAHERTY
PAGE 28
March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
MEMORIAL BOARD I f your department has photos you w ould like to see in our “M em orial Board”feature please upload them on our w ebsite w w w .lR B N .com or em ail them to L indsey@ lstR esponderN ew s.com
On Saturday, 2/7/26 hundreds of people attended a cere mony for the Past Chief of Colchester and Past Captain of Salem, Robert Brown. De spite getting about 5 inches of snow to start the morning, the crowd showed up in force to remember a fire instructor who certainly left his mark on our region. Chief Brown’s commitment and dedication to the fire service and to the communities he served were evident throughout his time with us. His leadership, men torship, and unwavering serv ice left a lasting impact on both Colchester and Salem, and his legacy will continue to guide those who follow in his footsteps.
COLCHESTER FIRE
Firefighters lined up in front of Colchester Fire Headquarters with Truck 128 holding the flag.
The Colchester Police and Connecticut State Police lead the procession followed by Colchester Engine 328 and Salem Ladder 121 carrying his urn. A long list of departments supplied apparatus for the procession. Colchester Truck 128 held the flag in front of Colchester Fire Headquarters. Bozrah Ladder 126 and East Haddam Ladder 115 flew the flag in front of Salem's station with Columbia Engine 105. A group of retirees also lined the apron of the Colchester Fire Museum to properly send off Chief Brown. Hearing Rob's son Robbie talking about growing up in the fire station while watching his father, certainly hit home for a lot of attendees. The New London County Pipes and Drums Band played for the large gathering. Car 21 and Quinebaug Valley Emergency Communications did the final radio send off for a hardwork ing gentleman who we will never forget.
RYAH FLAHERTY
Moosup Chief Bellavance and Plainfield Firefighter Sokolowski cut the roof.
Overnight Garage Fire Spreads to Plainfield Home
Thank you to Salem Valley Farms for donating the ice cream to help remember Rob who had his own sundae named after him there. Cancer really is the silent killer of the fire service, so we must all do whatever we can to pro tect our crews and ourselves while trying to stay healthy.
COLCHESTER FIRE
Colchester Past Chief Robert Brown.
PLAINFIELD, CT - At 12:44 a.m. on Friday, 1/23/26, the Plainfield, M oosup and Central Village Fire Departments, with South Killingly & Danielson FAST and M oosup Ambulance, were dis patched to 41 Pratt Road for a house fire. Car 95 arrived at 12:52 a.m. with a well-involved attached garage that was spreading into the home. Engine 195 stretched a 1.75” hose line and began darkening down the fire. Ladder 194 laid in from the hydrant at the com er o f Pratt and West Parkway and estab lished the water supply. Following that, they stretched a second hose
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line. Engine 197 stretched a third hose line from Engine 195. Fire fighters from Plainfield and Moosup cut the roof to perform vertical ven tilation. The bulk o f the fire was knocked down within 20 minutes and members performed overhaul. M oosup Ambulance transported one person to the hospital. The Plainfield Fire Marshal’ s Office is investigating.
- RYAN FLAHERTY
March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
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PAGE 30
March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
STILL IN SERVICE If you have photos you would like to see in our “Still in Sendee”feature, please upload them on our website, m w .lstR espon derN em .com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com
STRATFORD CT FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Stratford Fire Quickly Controls Chimney Fire on Nichols Avenue STRATFORD, CT - On the evening of January 9th, firefighters from the Stratford Fire Department arrived and promptly put out a chimney fire on Nichols Avenue. There was little dam age because the fire spread to the outside of the building. Be fore the fire service arrived, the occupants safely left the house after being notified by afunctional smoke detector. To stop further expansion, workers secured the chimney and its surroundings.
CHUCK LOWE
This 2003 E-One Cyclone II 2000/300/95' platform is still serving the community after 23 years.
SHELTON FIRE DEPARTMENT
Three Transported A fter Evening Crash in Shelton SHELTON, CT - On the evening of January 7th, Companies 3 and 1 of the Shelton Fire Department responded to a reported motor vehicle accident at the intersection of Bridgeport Av enue and Huntington Street. Upon arrival, crews confirmed that all occupants were out of the vehicle. Three occupants were evaluated on scene and transported to a local trauma facility by Echo Hose Ambulance Corps for further medical assessment. Car 3, operated by Assistant Chief Mattioli, served as Incident Commander. Rescue 30 and Engine 32 op erated on scene, securing the area and assisting EMS per sonnel. Company 1 was returned to service prior to arrival.
CHUCK LOWE
Wethersfield Truck 32 is a well-maintained 1997 Sutphen 1500/0/100' platform.
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
March, 2026
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CONNECTICUT
B0TSF0RD FIRE RESCUE
First Call of the Year Brings Botsford Fire to MVA on Blue Spruce Brive BOTSFORD, CT - On January 1st at 4:43 a.m., Botsford Fire Rescue received its first call of 2026 for a car accident on Blue Spruce Drive that resulted in injuries. The car veered off the road, flew for about 52-feet, and collided with a stone pil lar. Engine 551 crews secured the area and contained a fluid discharge. Patient care and transport were handled by New town Volunteer Ambulance Corps along with a medic unit. The patient's injuries were thought to be minor to severe when they were sent to Danbury Hospital. The vehicle re moval was completed by MODZ Squad 4. Responders noted that the stop sign on Blue Spruce Drive was knocked down during the crash and would require replacement.
TOWN OF WESTPORT FIRE DEPARTMENT
Rollover Crash in Westport Results in Extrication WESTPORT, CT - On January 17th, members of the Town of Westport Fire Department responded to a rollover motor ve hicle accident and extricated the vehicle's lone occupant. In order to ensure uninterrupted medical care, firefighters stabi lized the vehicle and established secure access. The person was given to Westport Emergency Medical Services after the extrication was finished, and they were sent to a neighboring hospital for additional assessment. While emergency person nel worked on the area, police helped with traffic control.
NLC FIRE WIRE
Ladder 106 and Engine 101 darkened down a large volume of fire on the first floor, but unfortunately it had already got in the walls and extended upwards.
Crews Battle Flames and Frigid Temps at Lebanon House Fire LEBANON, CT - At 6:23 p.m. on Wednesday, 1/28/26, the Lebanon Fire Department with Willimantic Engine 101, Wind ham Center Engine 103, South W ind ham Engine 204, Bozrah Ladder 126, Yantic Engine 33, Baltic Tanker 124, Franklin Tanker 125, M ansfield Tanker 307, Scot land Tanker 116, M ohegan Tribal FAST and a Windham Paramedic were dispatched to 464 Kick Hill Road for a house fire. Car 306 ar rived at 6:27 p.m. with fire show ing from the first floor Bravo side o f a 2.5-story wood-frame resi dence and established command. Ladder 106 positioned in the driveway and stretched a 1.75” hose line through the porch area that was well-involved. Engine 101 arrived next and stretched a line through the front door. Tanker 106 tied into a 5-inch sup ply line and nursed the ladder. Companies operated multiple in terior lines while the fire spread to the second floor and attic area. The second alarm was trans mitted at 7:13 p.m., which added Columbia Engine 105, Tanker 105, Elebron Squad 210, Tanker 110, Taftville Engine 21, C olch ester Truck 128 and Uconn FAST. Bozrah Tanker 126, Windham Center Tanker 103 and Chaplin Tanker 109 were also dispatched
while Elose Tender 106 established a fill site at the transfer station. Command pulled all crews out o f the building at 7:23 p.m. and set up the ladder pipe for defensive operations. Companies were re toned for manpower, so Franklin Engine 125 and Scotland Engine 116 responded as relief crews as the outside temperature was 10 de grees. At 7:32 p.m.. Engine 33 re
ported the second floor rear was lighting off, so crews operated a line from the backyard. Am bu lance 506 and 606 provided rehab on scene and the Lebanon Fire Marshal’ s O ffice is investigating. Baltic Engine 224 covered Lebanon Station 6 while Hampton covered Scotland.
- RYAN FLAHERTY
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March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
WOODSTOCK VOL FIRE ASSOC. STA 76.
Woodstock Fire Association Presents Appreciation Award WOODSTOCK, CT - Rick Harless and Dee Harless were pre sented with an appreciation award by the Woodstock Volun teer Fire Association, Station 76, for their continuing support of the Woodstock community and the Quiet Corner region. Firefighter James Dunlea gave the award, which included a plaque expressing gratitude to the Harlesses for opening Roseland Park for public events and firefighter training. Their assistance has enabled firefighters and first responders to practice in realistic settings, including water rescue scenarios, thereby enhancing readiness and safety. In addition to training access, the Harlesses have held various community events at Roseland Park and made renovations to the property.
NLC FIRE WIRE
Willimantic Truck 201 firefighters heading to the roof for vertical ventilation.
Crews Battle Heavy Fire on Bridge Street in Willimantic WILLIMANTIC, CT -At 1:23 p.m. on Monday, 2/9/26, the W illi mantic Fire Department with North Windham Truck 102, Mans field Squad 307, Uconn Truck 122 FAST and Windham M edic 31 were dispatched to 85 Bridge Street for smoke com ing from the building. Engine 101, Truck 101 and Car 201 arrived at 1:25 p.m. with smoke showing and transmitted the second alarm. Engine 101 stretched a line to the front while Truck 101 went to the roof. The second alarm added North Wind ham Rescue 102, Windham Center
tp file #021026123
30 I Engine 103, South Windham En gine 204, Hebron Truck 110, C o lumbia Squad 105 FAST & Ambulance 605, Coventry Ambu lance 618 with Windham M edic 32. Callbacks came in to staff Truck 201, Engine 301 and Engine 201 which also responded. Engine 103 laid a supply line down Mountain Street while En gine 301 hit a separate hydrant. Trucks 101 and 201 went to the r o o f for vertical ventilation. Fire
began venting from the rear and through the r oof so crews were backed out o f the building. Four hand lines, two ladder pipes and a ground monitor were used to knock down the fire. Columbia Engine 105, Scot land Engine 116, Ambulance 616 and D ayville’ s Rehab 263 were also added for support. Car 1 had command while Car 201 was oper ations and Car 4 had staging. The Windham Fire Marshal’ s Office is investigating.
- RYAN FLAHERTY
RYAN FLAHERTY
Skid Steer Fire Inside G riswold Garage GRISWOLD, CT - At 7:20 a.m. on Tuesday, 2/3/26, the Gris wold Fire Department with Jewett City Engine 156, Ladder 156, Voluntown Engine 253, Tanker 353, Lisbon Tanker 154, Plainfield Engine 195, Preston Engine 21, Taftville Engine 22 FAST and American Ambulance were dispatched to 1470 Hopeville Road for a garage fire. Car 55 arrived at 7:28 a.m. with smoke showing and reported a machinery fire inside of a metal garage. Engine 253 stretched a 1.75” hose line and prevented the fire from taking over the building. ET 155 ar rived next and tied into Voluntown with a 3” supply line. En gine 156 then tied into ET 155 and gave them their tank water. North Stonington provided station coverage and the Griswold Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating.
NLC FIREWIRE
UConn Tower 122 FAST walking up.
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
March, 2026
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CONNECTICUT
Firefighters Stop Fire from Reaching Second Floor of Fairfield Home FAIRFIELD, CT - On Febru ary 2nd at around 11:33 p.m., the Fairfield Fire Department re sponded to a reported structure fire on Figlar Avenue after a resi dent contacted 911 to report a fire in the living room. A functional smoke detector notified the house hold, allowing all three residents to safely flee before firefighters arrived. Firefighters arrived at the scene in five minutes and discov ered fire com ing from many w in dow s and extending along the home's exterior. Under the super vision o f department com m and ers, firefighters deployed multiple hose lines and established a hy drant water supply. Interior and exterior personnel worked to ex tinguish the fire as it spread to the
Jum p to file # 02 0 8 2 6 1 5 9
3P
rear family room. The fire was extinguished be fore reaching the second-floor bedrooms. There were no civilian injuries reported. One ch ief o ffi cer suffered a minor injury and did not require transportation. Fire o f ficials credited the smoke detec tor, quick evacuation, and coordinated response with pre venting further damage. The fire remains under investigation by the Fire Prevention D ivision with as sistance from the building inspec tor.
- COURTESY OF FAIRFIELD FIRE DEPT.
FAIRFIELD FIRE DEPARTMENT
Late-Night Working Fire Displaces Residents on New London Turnpike in Norwich NORWICH, CT - At 10:32 p.m. on Friday, 1/23/26, the East Great Plain and Norwich Fire D e partments were dis patched to 476 New London Turnpike for a person repeat edly saying fire with a language barrier. Car 5 ar rived at 10:36 p.m. with smoke show ing from the roof o f a wood-frame residential dwelling. Battalion 1 arrived shortly after and transmit ted the working fire which added Engine 2, Yantic Engine 33, Mohegan Tribal FAST and an Amer ican Ambulance. Engine 3 stretched a 1.75” hose line to the lower level and found active fire in the wall along the chimney. Two members from Truck 1 performed the primary search, while the driver flew the bucket to the roof. Squad A handjacked 5-inch hose from Engine 3 to the hydrant and established the water supply. Ladder 5 stretched a second crosslay from Engine 3 into the upper floor and found fire in the wall and attic. Engine 2 threw multiple ground ladders while Engine 33 went to the second floor and as sisted with opening up. Truck 1 cut the ro o f as fire was venting from the delta side gable vent. Rescue 5 set up scene lighting and
RYAN FLAHERTY filled air cylinders. Battalion 1 had command and Car 50 had the Char lie sector. Crews battled the fire while the temperature outside was 14 degrees. The Norwich Fire Mar shal’ s O ffice is investigating and the American Red Cross is assist ing the displaced residents.
Norwich Public Utilities se cured the power and Norwich Pub lic Works assisted with a sand truck. Laurel Hill Engine 62 and Taftville Truck 25 covered N or wich Headquarters.
- RYAN FLAHERTY
RYAN FLAHERTY
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March, 2026
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CONNECTICUT
Family of Five Displaced A fter Overnight House Fire in Westport
DANBURY FIRE DEPARTMENT - CT
WESTPORT, CT - At 10:53 p.m. on January 29th, firefighters from the Town o f Westport re sponded to a fire in a residential build ing on Weathervane Hill. Truck 1, the shift commander, and several engines o f firefighters were sent out. When the shift commander arrived, he reported a work ing fire and significant smoke com ing from the back o f the house. Before firefighters arrived, it was established that every resi dent had left the house safely. As the fire spread to the first floor, truck and engine companies launched a fire attack through the front o f the house. Additional hose lines were deployed to the rear to limit fire spread toward the second floor, while other units established a water supply and supported inte rior operations. Crews were able to bring the main body o f fire under control and continued to ex tinguish remaining hot spots. Norwalk Fire Department re sponded as a rapid intervention team, while Fairfield and Wilton provided station coverage. Westport EMS, Police, and DPW as sisted on scene. A family o f five was displaced, and the Fire Mar shal’ s Office is investigating.
- COURTESY OF TOWN OF WESTPORT FIRE DEPT.
TOWN OF WESTPORT FIRE DEPARTMENT
DANBURY FIRE DEPARTMENT - CT
A u to m atic Alarm Leads to Rapid Fire A tta c k DANBURY, CT - On January 20th, the Danbury Fire Depart ment responded to a working house fire in the Middle River area after receiving an automatic fire alarm at 4:56 p.m. from a residence on Richter Drive. While Engine 25 from South King Street and Truck 1 from headquarters were en route, dispatch received a confirmation call that the residence was on fire. Engine 25 arrived moments after, reporting a working fire. A Danbury police officer aided the occupants in moving from their home to a nearby residence. Under the direction of an acting lieutenant, Engine 25 launched an aggressive fire attack that swiftly knocked down the main body of fire.
ALEX HUNT
Y antic Responds M utual Aid to Franklin FRANKLIN, CT - At 1:13 a.m. on the morning of February 5th, the Yantic Fire Engine Company #1 responded mutual aid to the area of 742 Route-32 in the Town of Franklin for an MVA with entrapment. Franklin and Yantic firefighters extricated one patient from a van that struck a tree. Yantic firefighters utilized Hurst battery powered extrication tools that were recently placed into service on their Rescue-3.
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
March, 2026
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MASSACHUSETTS
MILLIS FIRE DEPARTMENT
Fire and P olice C oordination Lim its Damage a t M illis Home MILLIS, M A - O n January 21st, the M illis Fire Department arrived to the scene o f a house fire that was called in by a police offi cer. A w orking fire was started after the officer alerted dispatch. C h ief Barrett arrived, assessed that the fire was controlled, and as M illis workers put out the fire, the
Jum p to file # 0 2 1 0 2 6 1 0 7
tfL
| H-
assignm ent was scaled back. A c cordin g to an inquiry, the cause was a construction worker over sight involving abandoned materi als.
Units were already on a m ed ical call at the time o f the incident; Engine 1 was responding to the fire, and Am bulance 1 was trans ferring a patient.
- COURTESY OF MILLIS FIRE DEPARTMENT
K. LEGER
Mid-Morning Fire in Fall River FALL RIVER, MA - Around 10:15 a.m. on January 17th, fire fighters responded to 125 Warren St. for a still alarm. Engine 4 arrived on scene and reported smoke showing and a pos sible structure fire. Based on the information from Engine 4, command ordered an additional engine company to re spond. Firefighters stretched the leader lines off of Engine 4 as the home was set back well off the street. Firefighters found fire in the walls and ceiling on the second floor with a heavy smoke condition on the third floor of the three-story wood-frame home. Firefighters used thermal imaging cam eras to locate the hidden flames and to open up the walls and ceilings.
MILLIS FIRE DEPARTMENT
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March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
FIREFIGHTER PROFILES If your department has photos you would like to see in our “ Firefighter Profiles”feature, please upload them on our website, mvw.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@l stResponderNews.com
PETER LOBO PETER LOBO
On January 8th, Waltham Firefighter Ceasar Castillo’s friends and fellow firefighters sent him off with a party at Central Station on Lexington St. Ceasar was hired 2/6/89, spent 6 years as a deputy’s driver, several years on Rescue 6 and the duration on Tower 1.
Two-Car Crash with Rollover in Waltham WALTHAM, MA - On the evening of January 28th, two cars collided at Main and Stow Streets in Waltham. One car had rolled over on its side. Waltham Engine 4, Rescue 1 and Medic 1 responded. The operator of the car that rolled over needed to be extricated. That person was transported to Lahey Trauma Center, the other operator went to Newton Wellesley Hospital. A bystander refused medical attention.
Attleboro Firefighters Extinguish Vehicle Fire on Bliss Ave. During Frigid Conditions
PETER LOBO
On January 4th, Waltham Firefighters celebrated the retirement of ‘Senior’ LT. Mike Burke at the Moody St. station. Mike was on the department for 38 years, 26 as LT. He spent most of his years on Squad 5.
IN SERVICE If you have photos you would like to see in our In Service feature, please upload them on our website www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com .
CHUCK LOWE
Marlborough Truck 1 runs with this 2023 Pierce Enforcer 2000/300/100’ platform.
ATTLEBORO, M A - The At tleboro Fire Department re sponded M onday night, January 26th, to a vehicle fire on B liss Avenue that spread to a sec ond vehicle before being brought under control. At approxi mately 10:30 p.m., crew s were dis patched for a re ported vehicle fire. U pon arrival, fire fighters found a pickup truck fully involved, with flam es extending to a nearby w ork van. Firefighters quickly knocked dow n the fire, successfully pre venting further spread and pro tecting a nearby residence from damage. Crew s operated in diffi cult conditions, with temperatures hovering around 15 degrees. The extreme co ld caused water to freeze rapidly, creating slippery and hazardous working conditions at the scene. Fire personnel remained on location for approxim ately one hour to fully extinguish the fire and ensure the area was safe. N o injuries were reported. The cause o f the fire remains under investi gation.
- COURTESY OF ATTLEBORO FIRE DEPARTMENT
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
March, 2026
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MASSACHUSETTS
MEMORIAL BOARD If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Memorial Board”feature please upload them on our website www. IRBN.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com
OARNSTAOLE FIRE DEPARTMENT FALMOUTH FIRE/RESCUE
William Newton, also known to many as Billy, was a retired fire fighter and EMT. The Falmouth Fire Rescue Department is sorry to report his passing. On November 11, 1984, fireman Newton started working for the Falmouth Fire Department as a call fire man assigned to West Falmouth Station 4. He was appointed as a full-time firefighter on August 9, 1987, and went on to serve the department with distinction at several stations throughout his ca reer. Billy also served twice as a Provisional Lieutenant, from Jan uary 23 to February 19, 2011, and again from October 28, 2012, until his retirement on April 1, 2013. Billy exemplified the finest ideals of the profession with his devotion to the fire department and to the people of Falmouth. We will never forget the years of service and sacrifice he made. During this trying time, Fire Chief Timothy R. Smith and the officers and members of the Falmouth Fire Rescue Department send their sincere condolences to his wife, Shardell, and his whole family. Billy's life will be honoured at a later time; specifics will be announced as soon as they be come available. You can relax, Brother.
Construction A dvances on New Barnstable Fire Station BARNSTABLE, M A - January 15, 2026 — Construction continues to m ove steadily forward on the Barnstable Fire Department’ s new fire station, with crews making sig nificant progress on a critical early phase o f the project. Department shared that contrac tors are currently focused on build ing the foundation forms, a key step in preparing the site for the structure that w ill soon rise. This phase o f work lays the groundwork for the
Jum p to file # 0 1 3 1 2 6 1 0 5
station’ s long-term stability and functionality. Another major milestone was scheduled for January 16th, when the first concrete pour was set to take place. O nce complete, the foundation would quite literally set the base for a m odem facility de signed to serve Barnstable firefight
ers and the community for decades to come. Department officials said they are encouraged by the progress and will continue to share updates as constmction advances. The project represents a long-term investment in public safety and emergency re sponse for the town.
- COURTESY OF BARNSTABLE FIRE DEPARTMENT
IN SERVICE If you have photos you would like to see in our In Service feature, please upload them on our website www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com .
PETER LORO
Fire a t Brandeis University in Waltham WALTHAM, MA - At 3:00 p.m. on February 2nd, Waltham Fire received a call for a building fire on the campus of Brandeis University at The Stein Bar and Grill. Engines 1 and 4, Squad 5, Rescue 1, Ladder 2 and Medic 1 were dispatched. Engine 4 reported smoke in the building and wanted a line brought in. The fire was in the duct work and had to also be accessed from the roof. A second alarm was transmitted, bringing En gines 2, 3 and 8, and Tower 1. The fire was brought under control in about 45 minutes. There were no injuries.
CHUCK LOWE
Milford Rescue 1 uses this 2024 Ford F-350 rapid response vehicle.
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March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
V e h ic le N ew s
CHUCK LOWE
PETER LOBO
Dracut recently put their new 2025 E-One Typhoon 95' platform in service as Tower 1. Waltham MA recently took delivery of three new Seagrave Maurader II engines. Each truck has extended cab, 500-gallon tanks and 30-gallon foam tanks.
CHUCK LOWE
Hingham Engine 3 operates with a 2025 E-One Cyclone 1500/750/30F.
CHUCK LOWE
Springfield Truck 1 operates a 2025 Pierce Enforcer 100' Ascendant Tower.
CHUCK LOWE
Hubbardston recently acquired this 2025 Kenworth T480/Fouts 1500/3000.
CHUCK LOWE
Methuen Mass Engine 5 now operates with a 2025 Pierce Saber 1500/750.
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
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March, 2026
MASSACHUSETTS
M ultiple Agencies Assist at Second-Alarm Fire in Gardner GARDNER, M A - A secondalarm fire at 838 West Broadway was attended to by the Gardner Fire Department on January 29th. When firefighters arrived, they saw a commercial building with a large fire visible through the roof. As further alarms were set off to summon in mu tual aid, crews started fighting the fire right away. Firefighters managed water sup plies, hose lines, and exposure protection throughout challenging winter con ditions while working for extended periods o f time in below-freezing temperatures. Westminster, Ashburnham, Hubbardston, Winchendon, and Templeton offered mutual aid support. During the incident, Gardner fire stations were covered by Athol, Fitchburg, and Leomin ster to ensure city wide coverage. There were no reported injuries.
- Courtesy of Gardner Fire Department
GARDNER FIRE DEPARTMENT
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PAGE 40
March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
ANDOVER FIRE RESCUE.
Brookfield FD Handles Rollover During Busy W inter Weather Response BROOKFIELD, MA - During a period of multiple concurrent accidents in the vicinity on January 17th, the Brookfield Fire Department responded to a motor vehicle rollover. When crews arrived, they discovered one overturned car. They col laborated with EMS and police to secure the area and handle any safety issues. Firefighters remained available for other incidents while helping with traffic control, vehicle stability, and patient care coordination.
K. LEGER
Thawing Ice Leads to Fire FALL RIVER, MA - Around 1:30 p.m. on January 29th, firefighters responded to 90 Grove St. for a still alarm. Platforml arrived on scene and reported smoke showing from a 3-decker. Command arrived on scene and determined the fire was inside an outside wall. Engine 2 stretched an attack line while other members began removing the siding to expose the hidden fire. Command called for the building inspector and the Fire Investigation Unit to respond. The fire was believed to be caused by attempting to thaw ice. There was also evidence that the ten ants used a green line before calling the Fire Department. No injuries were reported.
COMMAND VEHICLES If your Department has photos you would like to see in our “Command Vehicles”feature, please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com
CHARLTON FIRE DEPARTMENT
Charlton Fire, Police Respond to Slick Road Accident
FALNIOUT1
CHARLTON, MA - The Charlton Police Department and the Charlton Fire Department responded to a single-vehicle col lision on Freeman Road, January 21st. As the area's roads grew slick and there were more travel risks, crews re sponded. While operations were underway, fire and police of ficers controlled the area and managed traffic and roadway safety. In order to improve traffic conditions, Charlton Depart ment of Public Works crews were also working in the neigh borhood, plowing and treating roads. CHUCK LOWE
In Falmouth, the shift commander (Car 28), uses a 2023 Ford Expedition.
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
March, 2026
PAGE 41
A ltern a te C a r e e r s in th e F ire S e r v ic e IN THE
New York State and may vary slightly in other states.
FIRE
Let’s briefly take a look at a few:
ZONE JOSEPH CEA
The first occupation that in evitably comes to mind when thinking of the fire service is fire fighter and for obvious reasons. Firefighter positions are varied and can be divided in a couple different ways. First by separat ing the volunteer from the career side but this title can also be di vided into interior, exterior and wildland. However, once you venture into working with “Old Man Fire” what becomes appar ent is that there are a multitude of other different titles within the fire service. Interestingly enough is that both the public and private sector have an equal claim to alternative fire service careers. Access to these other fire serv ice careers typically start out as firefighters i.e. you would have to train and, in some cases, work as a firefighter before being able to accept other posi tions and responsibilities. This is because being a firefighter provides a solid foundational understanding of fire emergen cies that can then be applied to other positions based also on future training and education. If we are just talking about and starting with career firefighting most if not all of the titles de fined here are just simply ad vancement and not necessarily an “alternate career”. This arti cle, however will focus on de scribing several fire service titles but from the perspective of someone transitioning into the fire service from a previously chosen and different career path. The volunteer fire service is ac tually very good in this regard. Volunteers can not only con tinue in their chosen careers but also be firefighters thus building up training and experience to advance in the fire service. For example, training classes can be taken to advance into several ti tles such as fire instructor, safety officer, fire investigator, fire marshal and fire inspector while still working your “day job”. For the purpose of this ar ticle the titles listed here are based on actual positions within
Fire Instructor: The primary re sponsibilities being instructing and teaching courses in firefight ing. Typically, instructors are provided with a set curriculum that must be followed. A back ground in education and/or coursework as a fire instructor is required. Most fire instructors are employed at the state or county level. In some states (Pennsylvania comes to mind) fire instructors work out of com munity colleges. Fire Investigator: This title fo cuses on the cause and origin of a fire. Investigators would deter mine if arson was involved as well and possibly testify in court. This can be a public or private sector position with insurance companies hiring within the lat ter. Fire Inspector: Inspectors are in volved in compliance with fire codes. The responsibilities of a fire inspector can also be inte grated in other titles from code enforcement officer to fire pro tection specialists and even parking enforcement officer with respect to ensuring compliance with fire lanes and hydrants. Safety Officer: Individuals work ing under this title would moni tor, assess and mitigate hazardous situations on the fireground ensuring personnel safety Fire Marshal (specific to the New York Racing Association NYRA): The Fire Marshal reports to the NYRA Fire Inspector (Chief) and is responsible for en suring full compliance with Na tional Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards and New York State Building Codes as they pertain to fire safety. Key responsibilities in clude fire prevention and inspec tion, emergency management and response and fire code com pliance and reporting. Fire Coordinator: In NYS each county has a regional coordina tor that manages inspectors, in vestigators and training opportunities. The top position is the only paid position while all other deputy coordinators are volunteer. Dispatcher: Answers emergency
and non-emergency calls, dis patches appropriate resources, communicates with the public and other first responders. They may provide life-saving instruc tions to callers. Maintain accu rate logs of calls, incident times and locations. So, what is the first step? What if you finally decide to take the plunge into the fire service and potentially changing your occu pation or at the very least sup plementing your current career. Start with some online research. Typically, you can find educa tion, training and experience re quirements for a position of interest at your states and/or county fire service website. NYS Fire Coordinators website (NYSFCA.org) along with the NYS As sociation of Fire Chiefs (https //www. nysfirechiefs.com/) are also good starts. Addition ally, the National Fire Academy (https://www.usfa.fema.gov/nfa/) has great information on fire service careers including a num ber of free online courses.
Always a firefighter, Joseph circa 1974 (age 3).
PROVIDED
On the private side visit the Fire Safety Research Institute at https://fsri.org/, Firefighter Asso ciation of the State of New York (Fasny.com) and the New York Racing Association (NYRA.com). For the latter Contact Adam Brement (NYRA Fire Inspector) at 516-408-2924 and/or ABrement@nyrainc.com for more in formation on current positions. Next start making some phone calls. Talk to others that have joined the fire service and/or have used the volunteer fire service to advance and transition their profession. Lastly, visit your local firehouse and talk to an officer to start the ball rolling by applying. Membership in a local volunteer fire company will allow you to start building your fire service resume that will eventually lead to being qualified to apply for any of the listed po sitions and then some. Using my own story, like most kids I had wanted to be a fire fighter but life has a funny way of coming at you sometimes and didn’t become a volunteer until age 46. By then opportunities as a career firefighter had passed me by. Luckily, a passion for the fire service could still be satis fied with other, alternate posi tions. As a volunteer I took classes to build my fire service portfolio to the point of being qualified to work under several
PROVIDED
(L to R): Joseph's fiance, Joseph, and NYRA Fire Marshal JD Cea (Joseph's son). of the titles listed here. Changing careers can be risky as there are so many unknowns and there would a lot of factors to weigh. It can certainly affect your financial situation; retire ment plans as well as personal and family relationships to name
a few. Start by asking yourself “Would I be happier staying in my current career or starting over in the fire service.” Just like on the fireground though, be de cisive and don’t wait. In the end the fire service represents a number of challenging careers and the risk is worth the reward.
PAGE 42
March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
FITCHBURG FIRE DEPARTMEHT
Car Fire Knocked Down in Fitchburg STURBRIDGE FIREFIGHTERS LOCAL 170
FITCHBURG, MA - The Fitchburg Fire Department was called to a car fire on Water Street on January 23rd. Rescue 3 and Group 3 Engine 4 were sent to look into the situation. Crews started suppression efforts after discovering a passenger car with fire conditions upon arrival. In order to restrict damage to the vehicle and stop the fire from spreading to neighboring property, firefighters swiftly put out the fire using a hose line. While activities were in progress, crews supervised road safety and performed hot spot checks. There were no re ported injuries.
Sturbridge Crews Handle Rollover Accident on Fiske H ill Road STURBRIDGE, MA - On Thursday morning, January 8th, Sturbridge Firefighters Local 170 re sponded to a rollover collision involving a motor vehicle on Fiske Hill Road. One vehicle was overturned when firefighters arrived, and one occupant was being treated on the spot for a minor injury. In order to minimize traffic hazards and preserve scene safety, crews also dealt with a fluid spill.
DRIIIS/TRAINING To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com
HUBBARDSTOH FIRE DEPARTMENT
Shed Fire Extinguished in Hubbardston HUBBARDSTON, MA - Engine 1 and Tanker 1 of the Hub bardston Fire Department promptly put out a shed fire on January 22nd. When firefighters arrived, they discovered that a detached shed was burning. They used a handline to put out the fire. Crews finished the overhaul to make sure there were no further hot spots after containing the fire to the original structure. There were no injuries or exposures that were harmed.
During on-duty in-service hours on Friday, January 9th, Sturbridge Firefighters Local 170 members trained for winter drafting at the Long Pond Boat Ramp. Establishing a draft lo cation for firefighting water de livery during winter conditions—when engine com panies might have to cut through ice to get water below—was the main goal of the session. Firefighters went over how to arrange equipment, how to cut ice, and safety precautions specific to cold-weather activi ties. Compared to other sea sons, winter drafting adds time and effort to an already taxing activity. Following training, caution tape was used to seal the ice opening for public awareness, especially ice fish ermen, until the area refreezed. Throughout the shift, teams continued to manage a consis tent volume of emergency calls while completing the training. STURBRIDGE FIREFIGHTERS LDCAL170
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
March, 2026
PAGE 43
MASSACHUSETTS
STURBRIDGE FIREFIGHTERS LOCAL 170
M ulti-Agency Response Supports Serious Injury Crash in Sturbridge SHREWSBURY FIRE DEPARTMENT
Extrication Performed in Three-Car Crash in Shrewsbury
STURBRIDGE, M A - On Thursday afternoon, January 15th, Sturbridge Firefighters Local 170 arrived on the scene o f an en trapped car collision near 530 Main Street. After Ambulance 2 was originally sent out and arrived to verify entrapment, more fire, res cue, and emergency medical serv ices were assigned. Rescue 1 used hydraulic rescue
Jump to file # 020 72 61 1 3
equipment to start the extrication process after responding with onduty and callback firefighters. A medical helicopter was called to Harrington Memorial Hospital, and advanced life support treatment was given on the spot. Crews took
the patient to the landing area when they were released, and Life Flight evacuated the critically injured pa tient to UMass M edical Center. While Sturbridge Police conducted their investigation. Rescue 1 stayed on the scene to mitigate the haz ards.
- COURTESY OF STURBRIDGE FIREFIGHTERS LOCAL 170
SHREWSBURY, MA - On January 5th, the Shrewsbury Fire Department was called to a three-car collision involving en trapment on Route 20. One person was locked inside a car when Engine 3 arrived. Westborough EMS paramedics were able to start patient treatment after firefighters secured the area and finished the extrication. Two ambulances took in jured occupants to nearby hospitals, while four individuals received on-scene treatment. As personnel attempted to clear the road, Shrewsbury Police helped with traffic management.
FIRE COMPANY LOGOS If you have photos you would like to see in our “Fire Company Logos “feature please upload them on our website, www.lstResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@lstResponderNews.com.
MEDWAY FIRE DEPARTMENT
Medway Crews A irlift Injured Man After Stairway Fall
CHUCK LOWE
Fitchburg Ladder 1 has this new logo to accompany their new apparatus.
MEDWAY, M A - An elderly man who had fallen down a flight o f stairs and suffered severe injuries was reported to the Medway Fire Department on February 3rd. Crews discovered the patient un conscious upon arrival and promptly called for a medical chop per to evacuate them quickly. With the help o f Medway Po-
T O f i l e # 02 10 26 1 04
a I%
lice, firefighters attempted to free the patient from a bulkhead in the basement. While providing patient treatment, crews plow ed through the snow to create a clear and safe route from the house to the ambu
lance. To be transferred to the heli copter, the patient was taken to Sta tion l's landing area. Before transfer, the total amount o f time spent on-scene was roughly 12 min utes.
- COURTESY OF MEDWAY FIRE DEPARTMENT
PAGE 44
March, 2026
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
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