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W W W . F I R E N E W S . C O M November/December 2026
See story on page 25. - Fire News photo by Glenn Duda, All Hands Working
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Fire News, November/December 2026, Page 3
In this issue... Over 20 People Displaced in Boston Blaze Boston firefighters responded for a three-alarm fire on Geneva Avenue. See story on page 4
Dryer Fire Becomes Basement Fire Manchester (CT) responded to Salem Road for a dryer fire that became a basement fire.
See story on page 8
Rindge House Fire Troy (NH) Fire Department 34 Ladder 1 setting up at a house fire for master stream operations. See story on page 12
Smoke Alarm Helps Orange Family A working smoke detector enabled an Orange (CT) family to escape injury after fire broke out in their home. See story on page 22
Truck Off Bridge into Merrimack River Manchester (NH) firefighters responded to 293 North in Manchester at Brown Avenue exit 2 for a multi-vehicle MVA.
Serving Fire & EMS Heroes Since 1973 FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher/CEO TIM EDWARDS, Chief Operating Officer GARY P. JOYCE, Editor MYLES QUINN, Long Island Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production CLIFF CHIESA, Art Director/Production Manager BARBARA CONNOLLY, Vice President National Sales SUZANNE BANCROFT, Business Development Manager BRYAN LOPEZ, Editorial Assistant LYNN SEDLER, GREG JONES, Graphic Artists DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor Emeritus CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Alan Brackett, Amanda Carmody, Thomas Carmody, Owen Carrigan, Kevin Czarzasty, John DeForest, Tim Delaney, Rob Dillon, Patrick Dooley, Doug Dow, Olivia Drake, Glenn Duda, Liz Feitelberg, Jim Fortin, Jr., Sean Freiman, John Hanley, Bud Harris, Ed Harvey, Jeffrey Hastings, Stephen Hess, Mike Ippolito, Dorrance “Doc” Johnson, Rick Kulmann, Ken LaBelle, Robert Ladd, Michael LaPrade, Jack McCarthy, Scott LaPrade, Paul LaRochelle, Jr., Ken Leger, Keith Muratori, Bob Myers, Rick Nohl, Bill Noonan, Peter Ostroskey Jr., Chris Palmer, Jim Peruta, Peter Pozerski, Glenn Preston, Rob Reardon, Dick Scialabba, Paul Shea, Joe Shefer, Rick Susi, Jon Tenca, Pat Travers, Devon Whalen, Kevin White COPYRIGHT 2026, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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Letters to the Editor, byline articles, and columns represent the opinions of the writers and photographers and are not necessarily the views of the Fire News. We reserve the right to edit all of the above. We are not responsible for errors in advertisements beyond the cost of advertising space. Copy submitted is subject to editing for space requirements. The placing of an advertisement in this publication does not constitute endorsement. Contents are copyrighted. Editorial and advertising copy cannot be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Fire News is published monthly by Fire News Inc, with corporate offices at 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713.
Page 4, Fire News, November/December 2026
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Over 20 People Displaced in Boston Blaze
Boston firefighters responded for a three-alarm fire on Geneva over 20 people were left homeless. The fire was brought under conAvenue. Multiple calls were received in the fire alarm office as trol in about a half hour and no injuries were reported. Boston Fire heavy fire from the third-floor-rear porch was extending to an adja- Deputy Chief Viola was in charge. cent building. All occupants in both buildings safely evacuated but - Fire News photo by Matt Gregoire
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Investigators Seeking Early Photos, Video of Wakefield Fire Public’s Assistance Could Help Identify Area of Origin Wakefield (MA) Fire Chief Thomas Purcell and State Fire Marshal “We are not investigating this as a suspicious fire at this time,” said Jon Davine are asking for the public’s help as they investigate a six- State Fire Marshal Davine. “Our main interest right now is identifying alarm fire on Foundry Street. the area of origin, which will help determine the Specifically, Wakefield and State Police fire exact cause.” investigators are interested in photos and video The Wakefield Fire Department responded to shot during the fire’s earliest stages. Based on their 102 Foundry Street just after 0300 hours on August efforts so far, they believe the fire began inside the 7, 2026. They found heavy smoke and flames on building, but the catastrophic damage has posed arrival at the single-story brick structure and major challenges in identifying exactly where. immediately undertook efforts to contain the blaze “We know this fire brought a large number of and protect adjacent properties. The building, a people to the area as it grew in size,” said Chief disused warehouse with a heavy fire load and Purcell. “What we’re looking for now are photos, extreme clutter inside, sustained catastrophic damvideos, and observations from people who were age in the fire, which went to six alarms and drew present when the fire was first noticed.” mutual aid from across the region. Anyone with photo, video, or other information Firefighters had the blaze under control by regarding the fire’s early stages is asked to contact about 1800 and remained on scene for hot spots Deputy Chief John Walsh of the Wakefield Fire and overhaul until early the next morning. Heavy Department at 978-382-5552 or the State Police Fire & Explosion equipment was used to level the structure due to instability issues. Investigation Unit at 978-567-3310. - Submitted by Jake Wark
20 Occupants Displaced at Manchester 3-Alarmer Manchester (NH) Fire crews were dispatched for a building fire. The first arriving companies confirmed a working fire with heavy fire on all three floors of a residential apartment building. A second alarm was immediately struck for additional resources. Initial crews made an aggressive attack on the fire stretching hoselines inside, holding back the fire while searches were conducted. All searches were negative and all occupants were able to escape prior to fire department arrival. Due to the large volume of fire and the close proximity of the neighboring houses, two other residential buildings caught fire and a third alarm was struck. Hoselines were advanced into the two exposure buildings, knocking the fires down. After a partial collapse of the roof on the original fire building, crews were pulled out and a defensive operation was conducted. In all, three buildings were involved and 20 occupants were displaced. The Red Cross was on scene assisting those civilians. - Fire News photo by Jay Heath
Witch City Jakes Make Another Excellent Stop
On a mid-August eve, Salem (MA) Fire Alarm struck a box for a building fire on Putnam Street in South Salem. Engine 4 arrived to heavy smoke and fire showing from the second floor of a 2-1/2 story frame. Captain Richie Thomas reported exposure problems on the Bravo side and struck a second alarm on arrival. First-due companies made a super aggressive attack on the fire floor but were unable to gain access to the third floor because the stairs were already burnt out. Witch-City jakes were assisted with mutual aid from Lynn, Marblehead and Peabody. No injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by Glenn S. Preston
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Dryer Fire Becomes Basement Fire
Manchester (CT) responded to Salem Road on September 4, 2026 at 0708 hours for a dryer fire that became a basement fire. - Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
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Arlington 3-Alarmer A fire on Arlington Street in Worcester occurred on September 18, 2026. While companies were returning from a run they stumbled across this fire. Engine 12 requested the box. Crews had heavy fire showing from the building on arrival. Engine 12 and Ladder 1 established a water supply and went to work while the balance of the box was on the way. The fire reached three alarms before it was brought under control. - Fire News photo by Paul Shea
Late August Fire Stopped by Hamilton Hamilton (MA) Fire Department (HFD) received a call for building fire on Bay Road. Engine 1 arrived to a heavy smoking fire showing from a three-bay detached garage. There was a long driveway, so the first-due pump dropped a few hundred feet of feeder from a plug on Route 1A. Quick water and good roof work saved the building and kept it to just one bay. HFD was assisted on scene by Essex and Wenham. - Fire News photo by Glenn S. Preston
Working Attic Fire in Hartford Hartford (CT) responded for a working fire in the attic of a 3-1/2 story wood frame located on Douglas Street on August 10, 2026 at 0143 hours. Members had to remove occupants from floor two on their arrival. - Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
Page 12, Fire News, November/December 2026
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Rindge House Fire
Troy (NH) Fire Department 34 Ladder 1 setting up at a house fire in Rindge (NH) for master stream operations. - Submitted by DC Ryan Huntoon, Troy Fire Department
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4 Brockton Sheds on Fire
Brockton (MA) Engine 7 was first due on Clara Road and arrived cent yard. Crews had fire involving four sheds and made quick to fire showing from multiple sheds in the rear. Engine 7 stretched work of the fire. - Fire News photo by Tyler Reardon the first line and then Squad A stretched another through an adja-
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3rd Floor Porch Collapse in Fall River On July 26, 2026 shortly after 1300 hours, Fall River (MA) firefighters were toned out for a still alarm on Hicks Street in the south end of the city. Engines 2, 4 and 5, along with Ladders 2 and 4 and Heavy Rescue 1 responded with Command Car 3. Engine 5 reported heavy smoke on approach. On arrival, command reported heavy fire on the second and third floors of a wood frame triple decker. Command immediately called for an extra pump and went to work. While lines were being laid the third-floor porch roof collapsed into the second floor. - Fire News photo by Ken Leger
3-Alarmer at Loudon Bar & Grill
Loudon (NH) crews responded to a three-alarm fire at Beanies Bar and Grill, on August 17, 2026, at 0300 hours. Fire had breached the roof by the time first-due firefighters arrived. - Fire News photo by Jay Heath
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Fall River Car Fire On September 5, 2026, Fall River (MA) Engine 5 and Ladder 2 responded to a car wash on S. Main and Broadway for a reported car fire. Engine 5 arrived and reported a car fire and pulled the bumper line and went to work making a quick knockdown. - Fire News photo by Ken Leger
2 Injured, 4 Buildings Damaged in Salisbury 5-Alarmer Salisbury (MA) firefighters were dispatched to Atlantic Avenue for a structure fire. While crews were en route they could see fire and smoke in the distance, and a third alarm was transmitted by C2. Crews arrived to heavy fire and smoke throughout the large structure with multiple exposures. Command struck fourth and fifth alarms bringing multiple companies from Massachusetts and New Hampshire to the scene. Two people were injured, and four buildings were heavily damaged. The cause of the fire was under investigation. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
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Roof Top Fire Doused in West Haven On September 24, 2026, workers inside a West Haven (CT) warehouse smelled and saw smoke on the top floor. Firefighters arrived and confirmed the smoke condition but were unable to find the source. A precautionary second alarm was transmitted. Members of Truck 22 laddered the roof and found a section of roofing material burning from recent roof work. Firefighters called for a line to the roof and opened up the area to extinguish the fire. - Fire News photo by Glenn Duda, All Hands Working
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5-Plus Alarmer Stopped in Salisbury Beach Salisbury (MA) Fire (SFD) and mutual aid companies were accredited for making an unbelievable stop on a job that could have easily turned into a conflagration and burned down an entire strip. First two companies had extremely heavy smoke and fire showing from all floors of a large, 2-1/2 story frame with multiple exposures going. First-due companies did an excellent job protecting additional exposures as well as simultaneously making an aggressive interior attack of the original fire building. Being one block from the sea and the Salisbury Beach Boardwalk, which easily could have turned into a major conflagration. Dozens of communities from Massachusetts and New Hampshire sent companies to assist SFD. Two civilians were reportedly severely burned, six buildings were damaged and the original fire building was a total loss. - Fire News photo by Glenn S. Preston
1 Fatality at Bridgeport 3-Alarmer On September 23, 2026, Bridgeport (CT) fire companies received multiple calls that unfortunately coincided with two of their first-due companies covering another town. Engine 3 arrived to find a 2-1/2 story, wood frame private dwelling with heavy smoke showing. Safety 1 arrived and performed a quick search and found one male victim on the second floor, who was removed to the street (he was later pronounced dead at Bridgeport Hospital). This prompted Battalion 1 to transmit the second alarm upon his arrival. Companies attempted to make an interior attack, but were driven out due to heavy fire and hoarding conditions. A third alarm was transmitted as two tower ladders, two monitors and multiple handlines went to work darkening down the fire. The fire took about two hours to bring under control. Due to the fatality, the State of Connecticut Fire Marshal’s Office has the investigation duties. - Fire News photo by Glenn Duda Allhandsworking.com
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Fire News, November/December 2026, Page 21
Hoarding Hampers Nashua Garage Fire Fight Nashua (NH) firefighters arrived to find heavy fire showing from the garage extending to all floors of a 2-1/2 story wood frame. Companies made an aggressive interior attack while Ladder 1 ventilated the roof. Extreme hoarding conditions were encountered which initially hampered interior operations. Command struck a second alarm bringing all Nashua companies to the scene. The fire was brought under control and companies remained on scene for several hours chasing hot spots in the hoarding conditions. - Fire News photo by Patrick Kerrigan
Rubbernecking a Trailer Fire on NH 16 Traffic was backed up for miles, when a 16-foot landscaping trailer caught fire on NH 16 northbound in Rochester (NH). The incident greatly affected northbound traffic on a Sunday afternoon, in July. - Fire News photo by Glenn S. Preston
Page 22, Fire News, November/December 2026
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Orange Family Escapes House Fire Thanks to Smoke Alarm System A working smoke detector enabled an Orange family to escape injury after fire broke out at their Mapledale Road home. The Orange (CT) Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched at 2307 hours to Mapledale Road for a building fire. First-arriving firefighters reported visible flames coming from the rear of the home. Firefighters immediately entered the residence to extinguish the fire and search for a family dog. Unfortunately, the dog succumbed to injuries sustained. Interior crews encountered heavy fire conditions in the attic and within the vaulted ceilings. The fire was reported under control at approximately 1202. Derby Fire Department as the RIT. Assistance also came from AMR, Orange PD; Woodbridge covered. The cause of the fire was under investigation by the Orange Fire Marshal’s Office. - Fire News photo by Doug Fenichel
57 Vehicles Damaged in Salvage Yard Fire Just after 0200 hours on July 2, 2026, Templeton (MA) Fire responded to a report of possible cars on fire in an auto salvage yard on Baldwinville Road. Upon arrival, Chief Dave Dickie reported there were upwards of 15 cars burning. He immediately called for a second alarm and then a third, bringing in additional mutual aid to establish a sustainable water supply. Crews from Barre, Gardner, Phillipston, Hubbardston, Winchendon and Westminster stretched over 2000 feet of large diameter hose to the rear of the auto yard. In total 57 cars sustained fire damage. The fire was under investigation. - Fire News photo by Bryan Favreau, Onscene Images
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Barnesdale Road House Fire Nashua (NH) firefighters were dispatched to a building fire on Barnesdale Road in the afternoon of September 21, 2026. EMS Captain Tim Farrar arrived to smoke showing from a single- story ranch style home. Other companies arrived on scene shortly after and discovered a fire in the basement of the home and stretched two handlines to extinguish the fire while two truck companies opened up and checked for extension. The fire was brought under control in a short amount of time. - Fire News photo by Patrick Kerrigan
Danvers Jakes Make Quick Stop On late summer afternoon, Danvers (MA) Fire Alarm began receiving calls for building fire on Wenham Street in the Putnamville section of town. Car 1 called in that he had a smoking fire showing. First-due companies got some quick water on the fire, and it was knocked down. Danvers also received a Beverly pumper and chief on mutual aid. - Fire News photo by Glenn S. Preston
Dozens Evacuated from West Roxbury Blaze Boston firefighters responded for a twoalarm fire in the West Roxbury section of Boston. Firefighters found fire in the pipe chase in a second floor apartment which extended to the third floor. Dozens of occupants had to be evacuated. It took about 45 minutes to bring the fire under control. No injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by Matt Gregoire
Acetylene Tank Explodes and Extends Fire into Home On September 18, 2026, Wolcott (CT) firefighters responded to Ferro Road with Waterbury Fire Department because the fire was near the town line and callers from both towns called it in. Upon arrival, Deputy Chief Costa reported heavy fire in an attached garage of a two-story house with an acetylene tank that just exploded and gas from the tank ended up in the structure. It took 30 minutes to bring the fire under control. Between both departments a total of five engines, three truck companies, three tankers and two rescue trucks responded. - Fire News photo by Rick Kulmann
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Truck Off Bridge into Merrimack River
Manchester (NH) firefighters responded to 293 North in Manchester at Brown Avenue exit 2 for a multi-vehicle MVA, which resulted in a truck going off the bridge into the Merrimack River. The driver of the truck was rescued by several firefighters using boats There were 11 people injured; seven were transported, and four refused medical transport. - Fire News photos by Jeffery Hastings
2 Injured in Petersham Road MVA On August 11, 2026 at 1800 hours Athol (MA) fire responded to report of a two car MVA on Petersham Road. Upon arrival, crews confirming the MVA with one vehicle on its side. EMS transported two patients to Athol Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. - Fire News photo by Bryan Favreau, Onscene Images
Two Dead in Fiery Crash on 101 in Amherst Amherst (NH) Police, Fire and EMS responded to Route 101 for a report of a crash involving multiple vehicles with one on fire on Route 101 just west of the Merrimack Road overpass. Upon arrival, first responders located two people deceased, one from a commercial oil tank truck, and the other from a sedan. A person driving a small truck pulling a trailer was uninjured. Amherst Police Chief Anthony Ciampoli said that according to witnesses and evidence at the scene, the sedan was traveling west when it crossed into the eastbound lane striking the oil truck and spinning. The truck pulling the trailer struck the sedan which was split in half. Mutual aid and other resources came from the NH Medical Examiner’s Office, NHDES, NH Fire Marshal’s Office, NH DOT, and New Hampshire State Police. - Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
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Cover Story
3-Alarmer in New Haven
New Haven (CT) Engine 6 arrived on September 8, 2026, reporting a fire on the top floor, number one side, “going good.” Firefighters rapidly stretched lines to the top floor, but were unable to get ahead of the rapidly extending fire. The number two side exposure, quickly became involved in the third floor and cockloft, prompting a second alarm for two dwellings with heavy fire in the cockloft. The original fire building porch soon collapsed puncturing two of the interior lines, forcing companies to regroup and stretch additional
lines. The firefighting effort was soon exhausted due to the work put in and the temperature of the day. One tower ladder and several 21/2 inch handlines were put into operation as firefighters took a blow. A third alarm was transmitted for manpower to finish the firefighting efforts. Several animals were rescued from the dwellings resulting in one firefighter being bitten by a dog. The cause of the fire was under investigation. - Fire News photos by Glenn Duda, All Hands Working
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Bystanders Extract Trapped Driver On the afternoon of September 23, 2026, fire, police, and medics responded to the intersection of Eastern Avenue and County Street for a reported MVA rollover with entrapment. Engine 9, Heavy Rescue 1 and a Medical Rescue responded to the scene where they found the driver had been assisted by bystanders to exit the overturned vehicle. The driver appeared to have a head injury and was transported to Rhode Island Hospital. - Fire News photo by Ken Leger
Pinjob in Preston
Labor Day MVA in Waterbury
On August 26, 2026, the Preston Fire Department responded to the Dunkin Donuts located on Route 2 for an MVA with entrapment. Upon arrival a two-vehicle collision was discovered with a total of three patients, one of whom was trapped in the front passenger seat of the car. Firefighters removed both passenger side doors as well as the B post with E-Draulic cutters and spreaders. All three patients were transported to the hospital, two being ALS. Special Note: Several firefighters from the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Fire Department were returning from a special detail and stopped to assist with this incident. - Fire News photo by Craig Maerkel
Waterbury (CT) firefighters and police responded to Wolcott Street and Wakelee Road on Labor Day weekend for an MVA. - Fire News photo by Rick Kulmann
Body Found Along Merrimack River in Bedford
Several Transported from Arlington MVA
Bedford (NH) Fire and Police were notified of a body that was spotted near the banks of the Merrimack River. A person on the Heritage Trail, a popular area for walking and biking area, spotted what he believed was a body at the bottom of a steep embankment. Crews went to the Moore’s Crossing entrance to the trail and met the caller. They then set up a rope system and worked their way down to the body. The person was immediately determined to be deceased, and Marine Patrol and NH Fish and Game were notified. Marine Patrol arrived at the scene, as well as the ME. The body was brought up the embankment by Bedford firefighters and removed from the scene. It appeared the body was an adult male, who had been deceased for an extended period of time. - Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
Arlington (MA) firefighters, police officers and emergency medical personnel operated at an MVA on Dow Avenue in Arlington on August 17, 2026. Several people were transported to area hospitals. - Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan
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Brockton Firefighter Honored as Fire & Life Safety Educator of the Year Brockton (CT) Firefighter Peter Reardon received the 2026 Fire & Life Safety Educator of the Year Award in recognition of his extensive contributions to community fire safety in the City of Champions. He was honored during the Department of Fire Services’ 31st annual Fire & Life Safety Education Conference. Firefighter Reardon’s award capped off a two-day conference that brought hundreds of firefighters, educators, service providers, and other professionals together for dozens of dynamic workshops and featured speakers, all focused on fire and life safety across Massachusetts. The conference followed this week’s announcement that the HealeyDriscoll Administration has made nearly $2 million in funding available for the annual Student Awareness of Fire Education (SAFE) and Senior SAFE grant programs. The grants support targeted, age-appropriate fire and life safety education for school-age children and senior citizens,and other services for older adults. - Submitted by Jake Wark
New England’s Fire Service Leaders Raise Awareness of Battery Safety New England State Fire Marshals, Western Mass Fire Chiefs, and NFPA Promote Fire Prevention Week
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Massachusetts FDs Achieve Nation’s 4th-Highest Emergency Response Reporting Rate The Department of Fire Services announced that Massachusetts fire departments have achieved the fourth-highest reporting rate in the country for the National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS). Ninety percent of Massachusetts fire departments have reported more than 1.3 million apparatus responses to more than 788,000 incidents. This achievement reflects the state’s commitment to leading the nation in public safety data collection and will help local and state officials make informed decisions about operations, policies, fire prevention messaging, grant applications and budget proposals, and updates to fire and life safety codes. A project of the U.S. Fire Administration and UL’s Fire Safety Research Institute, NERIS provides unprecedented public access to incident response data through its newly launched public website. Unlike its 50-year-old predecessor, which required a lengthy data validation process, NERIS allows users to view near-real-time incident data from cities and towns across the country and conduct independent analysis using dozens of data fields. - Submitted by Jake Wark
Healey-Driscoll Administration Announces $2M in Fire Safety Funding
Fire service leaders from across Western Mass and New England gathered at the Big E fair to promote Fire Prevention Week and emphasize the safe charging of lithium-ion batteries which power countless devices we use at home and work and are also the cause of a growing number of fires. - Submitted by Jake Wark
The Healey-Driscoll Administration is making nearly $2 million available to local fire departments in support of fire and life safety efforts that protect Massachusetts’ most vulnerable residents. The annual Student Awareness of Fire Education (SAFE) and Senior SAFE grants fund trained firefighter-educators who deliver age-appropriate safety education to school-aged children and older adults, as well as the associated costs of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, teaching equipment, and other expenses. The SAFE grants contributed to the steepest decline in child fire deaths in Massachusetts history. In 1994, there were more than two dozen child fire fatalities; the SAFE grants were launched the following year and child fire deaths never again reached even half that number, declining at a rate about 30% steeper than fire deaths overall. The Senior SAFE grants were launched to provide education, smoke and carbon monoxide alarm installation, and other services to reduce fire-related fatalities among older adults, who now represent the age group most likely to die in a fire. As Massachusetts’ older adult population increased by about 28 percent since 2017, per capita fire deaths have fallen by nearly 29 percent. - Submitted by Jake Wark
20 Local Firefighters Graduate from Firefighting Academy
30 Local Firefighters Graduate from Firefighting Academy
State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine and Massachusetts Firefighting Academy leadership announced the graduation of 20 firefighters from the 50-day Career Recruit Firefighting Training Program. Video of the ceremony was posted to the Department of Fire Services YouTube channel. The graduating firefighters of Career Recruit Class #S46 represent the fire departments of Amherst, Belchertown, Falmouth, Holyoke, Northampton, Oakham, and Westfield. The Richard N. Bangs Outstanding Student Award, which is presented to one recruit in each graduating career recruit training class, was presented to Firefighter Michael Young of the Westfield Fire Department. The award is named for a longtime chair of the Massachusetts Fire Training Council and reflects the recruit’s academic and practical skills, testing, and evaluations over the course of the 10week program. - Submitted by Jake Wark
State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine and Massachusetts Firefighting Academy leadership announced the graduation of 30 firefighters from the 50-day Career Recruit Firefighting Training Program. Video of the ceremony will be posted to the Department of Fire Services YouTube channel. The graduating firefighters of Career Recruit Class #341 represent the fire departments of Acton, Auburn, Billerica, Chelsea, Danvers, Malden, Methuen, Northborough, Revere, Southborough, Walpole, Waltham, Westborough, Westwood, and Winthrop. The Richard N. Bangs Outstanding Student Award, which is presented to one recruit in each graduating career recruit training class, was presented to Firefighter John Shanley of the Waltham Fire Department. The award is named for a longtime chair of the Massachusetts Fire Training Council and reflects the recruit’s academic and practical skills, testing, and evaluations over the course of the 10week program. - Submitted by Jake Wark
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Peter Kannler Memorial Ceremony Chelsea FF Peter Kannler Memorialized On September 3, 2026, the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy held a memorial ceremony to remember Peter Kannler, a Chelsea firefighter and Academy instructor 10 years after he lost his battle with cancer at the age of 37. His sister, Dr. Christine Kannler, became a passionate advocate for firefighter cancer awareness, prevention and early detection and helped start an Academy program that provides free screenings to Massachusetts firefighters. She is seen here speaking with Chelsea Fire Chief John Quatieri and Chelsea firefighters after a memorial portrait was unveiled on the walls of the Academy. - Submitted by Jake Wark
Bridgewater’s Ford Fire Fighter
Bridgewater (CT) shared their 1930 Ford Suburban Fire Fighter with the crowd at their annual parade. - Submitted by Edward Harvey
JGPR Raises Nearly $15,000 in Inaugural Golf Tournament for the Hundred Club of Massachusetts John Guilfoil Public Relations is proud to share the success of its first-ever charity golf tournament, which netted nearly $15,000 after expenses to benefit the Hundred Club of Massachusetts. On August 13, 2026, 102 golfers gathered at Sandy Burr Country Club in Wayland for a day of friendly competition and fun at the first ever JGPR Charity Golf Tournament. Proceeds of the tournament were donated to the Hundred Club of Massachusetts, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the families and loved ones of fallen active-duty police officers and firefighters. The shotgun-style scramble tournament featured raffles and contests, including a fire ladder truck ball drop, a $50,000 hole-in-one contest, air cannon, longest drive, closest to the pin and more. Three lucky winners of the JGPR Celebrity Foursome Online Charity Auction played in the tournament with a local celebrity rounding out their foursome. Celebrity chef and co-owner of Wahlburgers and Alma Nove, Paul Wahlberg; retired Red Sox pitcher and World Series Champion Manny Delcarmen; Hardy, radio host of 98.5 The Sports Hub’s Toucher and Hardy Show; and Boston National Anthem Singer Todd Angilly participated as celebrity guest golfers and were on-hand for the day. - Submitted by Benjamin Paulin
Fire News, November/December 2026, Page 29
Homeport Needed for the Fire Fighter One of the biggest challenges of collecting antique fire apparatus is finding a place to store it. This has become a major hurdle for the conservators of the Fire Fighter — a 1930svintage FDNY fireboat that currently plies the waters along Mystic and New London (CT). Despite lacking a permanent homeport, the dedicated volunteer crew keeps the vessel in shipshape condition while offering free, detailed tours that showcase its impressive engineering and highlight the heroic deeds of its past crews. To learn more, volunteer, or donate to support this incredible floating museum, visit their website at americasfireboat.org. - Submitted by Edward Harvey
Orange Resident Wins $10,000 at Orange Firemen’s Carnival ORANGE, Conn. – An Orange (CT) resident is $10,000 richer after winning the annual raffle held by members of the Orange Volunteer Fire Department at their annual carnival. Fire Chief Vaughan Dumas pulled J.K. Hannon’s ticket Sunday afternoon as the four-day carnival wound down. Hannon was one of eight award winners. The raffle and the carnival are the department’s primary fundraisers. “While the Town of Orange has always been generous to our department, this carnival is the most important way of raising money for equipping and training our members,” said Dumas. “The weather helped this weekend, and the people of Orange and surrounding towns have been wonderfully supportive.” The raffle was in addition to rides, games and food at the four-day carnival. Except during three national emergencies including World War II and the COVID pandemic, the department has held the carnival every year since the department’s founding in 1926. Additional winners of this year’s raffle are: • Second Prize of $5,000 cash: Eugene Torrenti, Orange • Third Prize of $3,000 cash: T. Catino, West Haven • Fourth Prize of $500 Gift Card at Orange Ale House: Chuck Mazzabuti, Orange • Fifth Prize of a $500 Gift Card at Orange Ale House: Craig J. Winkle Jr., Orange • Sixth Prize of a $400 Gift Card at Home Depot: Robin Kanell, Orange • Seventh Prize of a $250 Gift Card at Knights Inc.: Lynn Roach, North Haven • Eighth Prize of a Round of Golf at Orange Hills Country Club ($260 Value): Justin Anderson, Woodbridge. Next year’s Firemen’s Carnival will be Aug. 5 through 8. It’ll include another opportunity for people to win cash prizes by buying a ticket to the raffle. - Photo courtesy Orange FD
Hartford FD Beats PD in Flag Football Hartford (CT) Fire played Hartford Police in a flag football game on August 9, 2026 with the FD beating the police 22-20. - Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
Page 30, Fire News, November/December 2026
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Springfield 25th Anniversary of 9/11
September 11, 2026, marked the 25th anniversary of the terrorist Commissioner Rivera and Mayor Sarno and many more who attacks on America. The city of Springfield celebrated the 25th addressed the large crowd. The key point from all of them, NEVER anniversary at beautiful riverfront park. Many key speakers made FORGET. the night including Police Superintendent Akers, Fire - Fire News photo by John Deforest
Hero’s Sendoff for Final Injured Nashua FF After Gas Explosion The halls of Southern New Hampshire Medical Center were lined with a sea of blue and red as the community gathered for a hero’s sendoff. Firefighters, police officers, medical staff, and family members stood at attention to celebrate the discharge of the final Engine 5 crew member injured in a massive gas explosion nearly two weeks ago. The firefighter, whose name has not been officially released, was the most severely injured of the three-person crew caught in the blast on Amherst Street. He was wheeled through the hospital to a waiting vehicle amid the applause of roughly 100 supporters. - Fire News photos by Jeffrey Hastings
Remembering Those Who Died in the 9/11 Attacks In Manchester (NH), local first responders, families, and community members gathered for the New Hampshire 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb held at the Northeast Delta Dental Stadium. Participants took on 2,200 steps — representing the 110 stories of the World Trade Center towers — to honor and remember the 343 FDNY firefighters and all the brave first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice on September 11, 2001. Each participant wore a lanyard with a photo of one of the 343 firefighters, they read the name and rang the bell in remembrance. Every step taken today carries a name, a story, and a promise: We will never forget. Thank you to everyone who organized, climbed, volunteered, and supported this powerful tribute benefiting the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. - Fire News photos by Jeffrey Hastings
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Fire News, November/December 2026, Page 31
NH Honors Sacrifice at 20th Anniversary Fallen FFs Memorial Service
Firefighters, families, first responders, and community members from across New Hampshire gathered in Concord for an emotional milestone: the 20th anniversary ceremony of the New Hampshire Fallen Firefighters Memorial. For two decades, the memorial has served as a sacred ground of remembrance, honoring Granite State firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their communities. Today’s service reaffirmed a solemn promise kept for 20 years — to stand beside surviving families and ensure their loved ones’ legacies endure.
During the ceremony, four new names were enshrined on the memorial tablet: Charles Gallant (Rye Fire Department, 2023); William Connor (Goffstown Fire Department, 2024); Aaron Cooper (Keene Fire Department, 2025), and George Hidden (Nashua Fire Department, 1909). The morning was marked by solemn tradition and brotherhood. “Their names, their service, and their sacrifice will not be forgotten.” - Fire News photos by Jeffrey Hastings
Fall River 9/11 Ceremony
On September 11, 2026 first responders, elected officials, and the public gathered at Battleship Cove in Fall River for the annual 9/11 ceremony. The day included the singing of our National Anthem, ringing of a memorial bell, 21-gun salute fired from the USS Massachusetts, taps, and a dove release with the playing of “Amazing Grace” by a lone bagpiper. It was a very moving ceremony. - Fire News photos by Ken Leger
Retiring Chief Dedicates & Completes Construction of Mini-Firehouse, & Antique Apparatus Restoration The restoration of Hamilton Fire Department’s (MA) 1916 Model T fire apparatus and the construction of its new home were truly community projects, made possible by people who believed that an important piece of Hamilton’s history was worth preserving. Retired Hamilton Firefighter Randy Ayer took on the tremendous task of rebuilding and restoring Chemical 1, Hamilton’s first motorized fire apparatus, dedicating countless hours of labor and craftsmanship to bringing the historic truck back to life. Ayer also personally, subsidized the entire project. The restoration was a labor of love, but restoring the Model T was only part of the goal. The Model T Building project was spearheaded by Hamilton Fire Chief Raymond Brunet, who worked to turn the idea of a permanent home for the apparatus into a reality. With funding through the Community Preservation Act and the support of the Town, the Community Preservation Committee, HFD jakes, local contractors, businesses, and residents, the project became a true community effort. Many individuals and companies contributed their labor, expertise, materials, equipment, and financial support along the way. The completed building and restored 1916 Model T stand together as
a lasting tribute to Hamilton’s fire service history and to the many people whose generosity, craftsmanship and dedication made the entire project possible. Brunet, who has recently retired after 36-plus years of dedicated service, is accredited of working around the clock; on the construction of the mini firehouse. He literally spent thousands of hours on it throughout the last year. He was assisted by multiple members of HFD, and other community members throughout the process , but largely took on the project by himself. Congratulations to Chief Ray Brunet, after completing 36 years of honorable service to the town of Hamilton. - Fire News photos by Glenn S. Preston
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Tribute
LODD: Raymond’s Eric Phillips
Fire departments set up apparatus on overpasses as Firefighter Eric Phillips’s body was escorted from an Epping funeral home to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner In Concord. Raymond Fire personnel, New Hampshire State Police and the NH State Fire Marshal’s Office provided the escort. Phillips died suddenly Friday evening after experiencing a medical emergency during an active call for service, officials announced. Firefighter Eric Phillips, 44, was responding to a call on the evening of September 4, 2026, when the medical emergency occurred. Fellow first responders immediately provided aid and transported Phillips to Exeter Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. Phillips was a five-year veteran of the department, recognized by
colleagues for his dedication, courage, and compassion toward the Raymond community. “The Raymond (NH) Fire Department is heartbroken by the sudden and unexpected loss of Eric,” Raymond Fire Chief Jason Grant said in a statement. “Eric dedicated five years of his life to serving the people of Raymond, and his commitment to his fellow firefighters and our community will never be forgotten.” Department officials expressed their deepest condolences to Phillips’ family and friends, noting that support services are being made available to assist fellow firefighters grieving the loss. - Fire News photos by Jeffrey Hastings
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Fire News, November/December 2026, Page 33
Training
Water Supply Ops Class Multiple departments in Valley Shore region (CT) came together on September 9, 2026, to participate in a rural water supply operations class. The class was taught by GBW Associates. - Fire News photo by Jack McCarthy
Bloomfield Center Drills
Nice Day for Some Training
On September 15, 2026, firefighters from Bloomfield Center (CT) Fire Department traveled to the Connecticut Fire Academy and drilled at the campus at the B building. Crews would go through fire attack and searching during the exercise. The Incident Commander for the drill was Mike Arnold, Jr. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
On September 12, 2026, HCRFS FF 1 and FF2 spent the day outside on a warm and beautiful day. FF1 spent the day going over hose rolls, ropes and knots, SCBA, forcible entry, and search. FF2 went over bailout’s. FF1 was led by IC Mike Brown and FF 2 was led by IC Jason Gilbert. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
Healey-Driscoll Administration Expands Joint Active Shooter Response Training Statewide More than 1,000 police, fire and EMS professionals have completed joint active shooter response training across Massachusetts this year as the Healey-Driscoll Administration expands efforts to prepare first responders to act quickly and work together during a crisis. One of the latest Active Attack Integrated Response courses brought approximately three dozen first responders to Tufts University for two days of classroom instruction, hands-on exercises, and realistic scenarios. Participants included personnel from the Massachusetts State Police, Arlington Police, Lexington Police, Lexington Fire, Medford Fire, Somerville Fire, Somerville Police, Stoughton Fire, Cataldo Ambulance, and the police departments of North Shore Community College, Tufts University, and Worcester State University. “Massachusetts was the first in the nation to adopt an internationally
recognized framework for consistent, statewide active shooter response training,” said Public Safety and Security Secretary Gina K. Kwon. “Our law enforcement, fire service, EMS, telecommunicator, and emergency management personnel are training together in courses like this one so they can work together in a real-world crisis.” The Active Attack Integrated Response (AAIR) course was coordinated by the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services, the Municipal Police Training Committee, and the Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training Center, with support from the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security. The course was held August 18–19 in partnership with Tufts University and the Tufts University Police Department. Tufts also hosted AAIR courses in June and July. - Submitted by Jake Wark
Page 34, Fire News, November/December 2026
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Training
Tech Rescue Battle of the Masses
The Massachusetts Association of Technical Rescue Specialists hosted the annual 2026 Battle of the Masses featuring tech rescue teams from across the state. This year’s event was held in two locations. On the first day a dive component was held at Camp Gleason in Auburn. This served as training for search operations and how to remove a vehicle from a body of water. Divers also went over their equipment for other divers to compare notes on different equipment used by different departments. While the dive training was going on there were classes being held at Purgatory Chasm in Sutton for land navigation and extrication techniques used in a rural setting. On Friday the training was put to the test as crews had to navigate through the chasm to find victims in different situations and remove them safely. Event support was provided by the Department of Fire Services as well as the Central Mass Sparks and their Rehab 78 services. - Fire News photos by Paul Shea
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Fire News, November/December 2026, Page 35
Training
Worcester FAA Mandated Airport Drill
On September 23, 2026 Worcester Regional Airport held their triennial drill. This drill is mandated by the FAA for the airport to keep its certification. Worcester Regional Airport is managed by the Massachusetts Port Authority. While Massachusetts State Police provide security to the property Massport Fire responds to incidents in and around the airport
property along with Worcester Fire. The drill focused around two planes colliding and creating two different debris fields a thousand feet apart. The drill was attended by local fire departments and ambulance companies. Busses were used to simulate planes. - Fire News photos by Paul Shea
MES LIFE SAFETY IS EXCITED TO SPONSOR THE LIGHTS & SIRENS SOCIAL AT THIS YEAR’S EMS & FIRE PRO EXPO AND CONFERENCE! If you’re registered for the conference, join us Friday from 5:00– sentations. No PowerPoints. Just two hours of games, laughs and probably a little unnecessary competition. 7:00 p.m. at Game On. At MES Life Safety, we’re proud to serve the fire and EMS professionals who protect communities every day. We spend a lot of time talking about equipment, training, and solutions — but events like this give us the opportunity to simply enjoy some time with the people behind the profession. So grab your conference crew and come hang out with us. No pre-
THE CALL FOR PAPERS IS OFFICIALLY OPEN FOR THE 28TH ANNUAL NEW JERSEY EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS ASSOCIATION (NJEPA) CONFERENCE Taking place April 12–16, 2027, in Atlantic City, NJ! NJEPA is looking for presenters to share their knowledge, experience, best practices, and innovative ideas with New Jersey’s emergency management and first responder community.Paper Submission Deadline: November 30, 2026We encourage you to submit your presentation ideas and share this opportunity with colleagues and partners who may be interested in presenting at the 2027 NJEPA Conference. We look forward to another great conference and hope to see you in Atlantic City!