NEW ENGLAND Serving Volume 14, No. 5
W W W.FIRENE WS .COM
Fire, Rescue The Serving Magazine Fire, Rescue &Serving EMS &Fire, EMS Heroes Rescue Heroes Since 1973 &Since EMS Heroes 1973
September/October 2026
See story on page 31. - Fire News photo by Jay Heath
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Fire News, September/October 2026, Page 3
In this issue... 2 Dead in Concord Apartment House Fire An active suspicious death investigation was underway following a fire in Nashua (NH) on July 21, 2026. See story on page 4
Garage Fire in Lincoln Lincoln (RI) Chief Walsh struck a third alarm for an address on Meader Street on July 3, 2026. See story on page 6
Winchendon 3-Alarmer The Winchendon Fire Department (MA) responded to Benjamin Street for a reported structure fire. See story on page 8
Fast Stop in East Hartford East Hartford (CT) firefighters had rear porches on fire at a structure on Village Street. See story on page 12
18-Year Old Drowns at Milton Quarry A District 7 dive team searched for two days after an 18-year-old swimmer failed to surface after jumping into the See story on page 22 water.
New Boston Marine Unit 1: The Martin Pierce A new fireboat was dedicated on July 28, 2026, at the US Coast Guard Pier off Commercial Street in Boston. See story on page 39
PLUS: Focus of the Month . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 22 Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pages 26,27,28 Up Close & Personal . . . . . . . . . . . . pages 25,30 Looking Back . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 29 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 38 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 39 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 39
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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Page 4, Fire News, September/October 2026
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Spencer Vehicle Fire Snuffed During the afternoon of July 3, 2026, Spencer (MA) firefighters were dispatched to North Spencer Road for a reported vehicle fire with possible exposure issues. The duty crew with Engine 3 arrived to a well involved car fire, and stretched the bumper line, extinguishing the flames in a short amount of time. The fire was contained to the vehicle with negative extensions to the nearby garage. - Fire News photo by AGM Fire Photography
2 Dead in Concord Apartment House Fire An active suspicious death investigation was underway following a fire on Orange Street in Nashua (NH) on July 21, 2026. At approximately 1526 hours on July 21, 2026, the Nashua Fire Department and Nashua Police Department responded to Orange Street for a reported fire inside an apartment building. Upon arrival, eight of the nine residents were able to escape the building. One resident, a 66-year-old male, was removed from his apartment by first responders and transported to Southern New Hampshire Medical Center, where he was later pronounced deceased. A ninth resident, was later located deceased inside an upstairs apartment. Fire investigators and detectives remained at the scene collecting physical evidence and conducting interviews. Investigators were examining all available information as part of the ongoing investigation, including whether this incident may have involved suicide by fire in which the fire then spread to cause the murder of another. Investigators are asking anyone who had recent contact with the victims or who may have information relevant to the investigation to contact Nashua Police Detectives at 603594-3500. - Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
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Fire News, September/October 2026, Page 5
Page 6, Fire News, September/October 2026
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New Boston House Fire Spreads to Woods A three-alarm blaze completely destroyed a home and sparked a surrounding brush fire on Weare Road in New Boston (NH), drawing mutual aid response from several neighboring communities. The New Boston Fire Department responded to reports of a possible structure fire and could see heavy smoke and flames while en route, prompting an immediate second alarm to bring in reinforcements. Upon arrival, firefighters found the residential structure fully engulfed in flames. Crews quickly stretched hoselines and confirmed that all people were safely out of the house. As the primary structure burned, the intense flames spread to the surrounding woods and brush. Firefighters had to split their efforts between suppressing the house fire and containing the expanding brush fire. Logistical challenges met the crews, requiring a third alarm for additional tankers and personnel. A water shuttle was established, with tankers hauling water from a supply source near Twin Bridge on Weare Road, roughly a mile away. Later in the fire, a backhoe was brought in to tear down structurally unsafe sections of the building, allowing crews to reach deep-seated pockets of fire. Firefighters battled the heavy volume of fire in high-heat conditions. The New Boston Fire Auxiliary set up a rehab station, providing muchneeded food and water to the crews working the scene. The cause of the fire was under investigation. - Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
Garage Fire in Lincoln Lincoln (RI) Chief Walsh struck a third alarm for an address on Meader Street on July 3, 2026. Ladder 5 arrived to find heavy fire showing from the garage of a 1-1/2 story Cape Cod dwelling. Companies worked exterior lines to knock the fire down as mutual aid responded. The fire extended into the living areas on both floors of the dwelling. Mutual aid came from Central Falls, Pawtucket, Cumberland, North Providence, Smithfield, Woonsocket and Providence. - Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
Double Fatality at Nashua 2nd Alarm Blaze Nashua (NH) firefighters arrived at a large 2-1/2 woodframe home with fire showing in the early morning on July 2026. The Deputy Chief arrived and transmitted a second alarm bringing all Nashua apparatus to the scene. Companies made an aggressive interior attack and removed one victim from the building in the first few minutes after arrival. Due to the deteriorating fire conditions, companies went to a defensive operation for a short period of time. After the heavy volume of fire in the attic was knocked down, companies re-entered and knocked down the rest of the fire. Companies remained on scene throughout the day for hot spots and assisting the fire investigators. This fire ended up being a double fatality. - Fire News photo by Patrick Kerrigan
Page 8, Fire News, September/October 2026
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Branford Douses Car Fire Just before 1900 on July 14, 2026, Branford (CT) Fire responded to North Ivy Street for a reported car fire. Companies arrived to find one vehicle with heavy fire from the engine compartment. One line was stretched and the fire was contained. - Fire News photo by Jack McCarthy
Winchendon 3-Alarmer Just before 1800 hours, the Winchendon Fire Department (MA) responded to Benjamin Street for a reported structure fire. Upon arrival, crews had a two-story wood frame with heavy smoke and fire showing. Command immediately called for a second and third alarms bringing in multiple mutual aid companies. - Fire News photo by Bryan Favreau, Onscene Images
Heavy Fire on Arrival in Manchester Blaze Manchester (CT) companies had heavy fire from a mill-type building on arrival on Hilliard Street on June 17, 2026 at 1523 hours. Mutual aid assisted at the scene and covered the firehouses. - Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
51 Displaced by Lawrence Fire On July 12, 2026, Lawrence, (MA) Fire crews responded to what became a five-alarm fire in three buildings on Haverhill Street displacing 51 residents. Firefighters battled numerous exposures, rescued an occupant from the third floor of one of the heavily involved buildings. After aggressive primary searches and interior firefighting operations, members were pulled out to go defensive. - Fire News photo by Jay Heath
Page 10, Fire News, September/October 2026
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Hot Air Balloon Fire in Pittsfield Hundreds of spectators gathered in Pittsfield (NH) for the 44th annual Suncook Valley Rotary Hot Air Balloon Rally. The hot air balloons began to take off at about 0600 hours. As many balloons were ascending, a tethered remote-control balloon, ironically shaped as a fire truck, caught fire. Small propane tanks exploded as the basket caught fire, injuring the balloon handler. Crew members rushed to bring the balloon to the ground as others used fire extinguishers to put out the fire. The man who was injured was brought to a Pittsfield Fire ambulance and medically evaluated. After evaluation the man refused medical transport from the scene. No one else was injured in the incident, and the incident was being investigated. - Fire News photo by InfoNH
Double-Fatal Fire in Bellingham Firefighters operated on scene of a double-fatal fire in Bellingham (MA). Multiple calls came into fire alarm around 0100 hours reporting fire through the roof of a house. Arriving companies struck a second alarm on arrival and received reports of two people (sisters) trapped inside. After an aggressive push to get inside, firefighters located two (ages 68 and 75) female occupants and removed them. They were transported to a local hospital where they were pronounced dead. It took over an hour to bring the fire under control. No firefighters were injured. - Fire News photo by Matt Gregoire
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Fire News, September/October 2026, Page 11
Page 12, Fire News, September/October 2026
Woonsocket 2- Alarm Apartment Building Fire The Woonsocket (RI) Fire Department responded to Harrison Street on the afternoon of July 11, 2026, for reported smoke from a three-story WDFM apartment building. Engine 2 arrived to find heavy smoke showing from the Charlie side, third floor. Members had to assist an elderly resident to safety as they stretched up the stairwell. The fire was contained to the third floor with some extension into the knee walls and eaves. Mutual aid came from Lincoln (RIT), Bellingham and Cumberland. - Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
Fast Stop in East Hartford East Hartford (CT) firefighters had rear porches on fire at a structure on Village Street on July 14, 2026 at 2331 hours. The fire extended into the building but members made a fast knock down on the fire. - Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
Vehicle Fire in Preston
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Merrimack Wires Down on the F.E. Everett Turnpike The F.E. Everett Turnpike was shut down both north- and southbound due to a series of events. Initial information was that a tractor-trailer traveling northbound in a Merrimack construction site area under the Baboosic Lake Road overpass caught several communication lines and ripped them down. The driver, most likely unaware of the incident, continued northbound. The communication lines and some power lines fell onto the highway closing the highway and causing multiple brush fires. Two vehicles that struck the lines, were damaged. At least one person in one of the vehicles was transported to a local hospital. An AMR ambulance responding mutual aid from Nashua had to travel north in the southbound lane to reach the patient who was injured. It appears that, possibly due to recent paving, that the elevation of this highway was raised, and the standard clearance was reduced. NHSP was investigating. During the incident and for an extended period Daniel Webster Highway was bumper to bumper traffic as people used it as an alternative route. - Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
Possible Grill Explosion in Waterbury On June 30, 2026, Waterbury (CT) Firefighters responded to Hitchcock Road for a condo on fire. Upon arrival, Engine 5 had heavy fire from the side deck area. Multiple lines were used and crews had to go to defensive operations for a few minutes, the cause of the fire was being investigated, but witnesses reported an explosion from a grill. The fire was placed under control an hour later. No injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by Rick Kulmann
Portsmouth Abandoned Structure Fire
Around 1302 hours on July 16, 2026, a citizen reported a vehicle fire to crews at the Preston City (CT) Station. P-21 notified dispatch and responded to the area of Route 165 and Miller Road. P21 arrived on scene and found an active engine compartment fire in a vehicle being towed by a flatbed. A handline was stretched and the fire was quickly knocked down. - Fire News photo by Craig Maerkel
At 0451 on June 17, 2026, Portsmouth (NH) Fire companies were dispatched for a report of a fire in a building on Pray Street. Subsequent calls reported the house was vacant and heavy smoke was coming from the building. Engine 1 and Ambulance 1 found a single-family two-story house located at the end of the deadend. Crews stretched two 1-¾ inch lines to the interior of the residence and subsequent lines to protect the surrounding buildings. Additional companies worked to ventilate the building and bring more handlines for fire control. The fire was knocked down and declared under control at 0531. The fire was involved on every floor of the building and required extensive work to expose the hidden fire and extinguish it, requiring additional mutual aid. One firefighter was treated at the hospital and released for injuries from a fall, and a second was treated on scene for dehydration and heat exposure. - Submitted by Chief William McQuillen
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Fire News, September/October 2026, Page 13
Milford Fire Responds to Silo Fire An off-duty worker discovered fire coming from the top of a silo that contained wax which is used in manufacturing at Alene Candles on Scarborough Lane in Milford (NH) at about 1100 hours. On arrival, a working fire was requested bringing mutual aid towns to the scene and station coverage. Crews worked to get the power shut off to the area of the fire, and then used the Milford ladder to stretch lines to extinguish the fire. The exterior insulation of the silo appeared to be where the bulk of the fire was located. Wilton Fire, and Merrimack Fire Rescue arrived, and Milford Ambulance stood by at the scene for EMS services. The fire was extinguished and brought under control within one hour. - Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
Car Fire in Glastonbury On June 16, 2026 at 1423 hours, Glastonbury (CT) had a fully involved auto fire on Route 2 west, prior to exit 10. - Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
Page 14, Fire News, September/October 2026
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Airborne MVA in West Haven On June 28, 2026, West Haven (CT) Fire was called for an MVA traveling on I-95 north when it left the highway and went airborne for close to 100 feet across Campbell Avenue. The vehicle hit a tree on Hall Avenue while airborne and came to rest at its base. Firefighters had one person heavily entrapped in the wreckage requiring multiple tools to help free the driver. The extrication took about 45 minutes to complete. The driver was transported in critical condition. The cause of the MVA was being investigated by the Connecticut State Police. - Fire News photo by Glenn Duda, All Hands Working
Brookline Cars and Truck MVA Brookline (NH) Police, Fire and Ambulance Service were dispatched to the area of Route 13 just South of Quimby Road. On arrival they found a collision between two passenger vehicles and a logging truck. The logging truck went off the road taking down utility poles and several power lines. Initially the availability of a medical helicopter was requested, however it was later cancelled. The driver was conscious, breathing and alert and was advised to remain in the cab of the truck due to the live wires down on the truck. Milford Fire was requested to respond to the scene with their heavy rescue. Eversource was notified and and began de-energizing the power lines which required substantial work. NH Department of Environmental Services were notified due to diesel fuel leaking from the truck. - Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
Page 16, Fire News, September/October 2026
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At Least 1 Fatal from Boating Accident on Merrimack River Nashua (NH) Fire, Hudson Fire, AMR, Hudson Police and Nashua Police responded to a report of a boating accident on the Merrimack River. The initial report was that there were possibly five victims and the accident involved one or two PWCs (personal watercraft) and a boat. Responders initially had a difficult time locating the scene until a person waived down a retired Hudson firefighter on Sagamore Park Road. Responders located a man that had been brought to the shore on the Hudson side of the river. The man was pronounced deceased at the scene. Several people called 911, some reporting a second injured person who had been transported by private vehicle to a hospital. NHSP Marine Patrol was summoned to the scene and they were the lead investigation unit handling the case. - Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
Tractor Trailer vs Auto on I-95 in New Haven, CT A tractor-trailer and auto collided at the intersection of Ella Grasso Boulevard and Kimberly Avenue on July 14, 2026, in New Haven (CT). This caused the truck to careen into the building on the corner, nearly destroying it. The auto came to rest about a hundred feet down the road. The auto was occupied by four people. The front seat and driver of the auto had to be extricated. The driver of the tractor-trailer also had to be extricated. Three civilians were transported to area hospitals. The New Haven Police were investigating the cause. - Fire News photo by Glenn Duda, All Hands Working
Page 18, Fire News, September/October 2026
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Cats, Dogs, Toxic Air Removed from Hooksett Home Hooksett Police (NH) Department responded to Dundee Avenue with investigators from New Hampshire SPCA to remove multiple animals. Police notified the fire department to respond due to potentially highly toxic air quality issues. Hooksett Fire Rescue immediately determined the air unsafe and containing toxic levels of ammonia and other toxins. Firefighters using SCBA to make sure there were no humans left inside the house. Southeastern NH Hazardous Materials District was requested to respond to the scene to provide protective gear and additional tools to make safe entry into the house. Firefighters used fans and opened windows to eject air from the house. After toxic readings were reduced, New Hampshire SPCA worked with firefighters to remove over 30 cats. Two dogs, which were outside, were also removed and taken for medical treatment by Animal Rescue League of NH of Bedford. The house was deemed uninhabitable. Neighbors who spoke to firefighters expressed relief that something was being done, as the air quality coming from the building has been a problem for a significant time. Staff from both New Hampshire SPCA and Animal Rescue League of NH and a veterinarian were on scene. All animals removed required significant medical evaluation, treatment and sanitizing. Humane traps were set up in anticipation of capturing several additional animals which appeared to be hiding throughout the house. - Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
Lexington Fire and State Partners Resolve HazMat Incident Lexington (MA) Fire Department, Massachusetts Department of Fire Services, and State Police Bomb Squad successfully undertook a day-long operation to clear a home of explosive chemicals and radioactive substances. The LFD was called to Longfellow Road after a large quantity of unknown chemicals were discovered during a clean-out. Firefighters assessed the scene and identified picric acid, a highly explosive chemical, among dozens of bottles of liquids, powders, and solids. “We see this fact pattern a few times a year,” said State Fire Marshal Davine. “It often involves family members who find military ordnance. This was a much more complex scenario requiring patience, precision and a high degree of technical skill.”
The Department of Fire Services’ Hazardous Materials Emergency Response Division was requested to assist as was the State Police Bomb Squad, an FBI special agent bomb technician, and the DFS Joint Hazard Incident Response Team and the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection. A DFS Rehab unit was deployed to support first responders’ health and safety during the seven-hour mission. Wearing the appropriate PPE, State Police bomb technicians carefully transferred the explosive and other substances from the home to a Lexington DPW truck filled with sand which were transported to a remote location, where they were destroyed without incident. - Submitted by Jake Wark
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Fire News, September/October 2026, Page 19
Page 22, Fire News, September/October 2026
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18-Year Old Drowns at Milton Quarry The search at the Milford Quarry continued for two days after an 18-yearold swimmer never surfaced after jumping into the water. His body was then finally located. A District 7 dive team response was brought to the scene. Sonar, a drone and cadaver dogs were also used in the search. - Fire News photo by Matt Gregoire
Accident Turns to Joy For 10-Year-Old Boy Impaled by Bike Handle What began as a frightening freak accident turned into a heartwarming moment of community triumph after Manchester (NH) firefighters rallied to surprise a brave 10year-old boy with a brand-new bicycle. The incident unfolded earlier this month when young Pietro was out riding his bike, struck an unseen object and crashed to the ground, impaling his leg on the bike’s handlebar. Fortunately, the accident occurred directly across the street from the MFD HQ. Firefighters from Engine 11 and AMR medics immediately jumped into action, rushing across the road to administer emergency medical aid. While first responders successfully stabilized the boy, they faced a critical complication: the handlebar could not be safely pulled out without causing fur-
ther severe damage. Crews called in Rescue 1 to utilize cutting tools. Throughout the harrowing ordeal, first responders noted Pietro’s remarkable bravery. Despite the pain, the 10year-old was reportedly just as worried about the state of his bicycle as he was about his own leg. Firefighters carefully cut the handlebar away from the rest of the frame, and Pietro was rushed to Elliot Hospital. The firefighters of MFD Local IAFF 856 decided to replace the bike and managed to track down the exact make, model and color, pooled their own resources and purchased an identical replacement, along with a brand-new safety helmet.Pietro was invited to the fire
headquarters to meet the crew where they presented him with the new bike. - Submitted by Jeffrey Hastings
Page 24, Fire News, September/October 2026
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The following is a statement from retired Groveland Fire Chief Robert E. Valentine. “In November of 2024, during a visit to my doctor for a seasonal respiratory infection, my doctor found inconsistencies with my chest Xray, and I was referred to a pulmonologist. At the follow-up appointment, which included scans and blood testing, I was diagnosed with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis, a chronic, incurable progressive lung disease. After serving for nearly 50 years as a firefighter, my body was starting to show the telltale signs of my career. “I informed the Town of Groveland of my diagnosis, and I was cleared by my doctor to return to work with medication to manage the progression of the disease. Until recent weeks, I had every intention of remaining in the job I love through at least my 65th birthday. I continued to respond to virtually every call for service in the Groveland Fire Department, and as has been well-documented, I have put myself out there in contention to advance my career. “In June 2026, within a week of Father’s Day, I responded to and worked at two structure fires as a mutual aid responder – one in Georgetown and one in West Newbury. I became progressively sicker after each fire, and my wife – who generally has my well-being in mind much more than I do – made an appointment for me to visit again with my pulmonologist. “At the doctor’s appointment on July 16, I was handed a letter from my doctor informing me that she deemed my career in the fire service to be over effective immediately, due to the sudden progression of my lung disease. My doctor informed me that she determined that continuing my career would be “counterproductive” to the treatment of my dis-
ease. “This was devastating news. I am a stubborn firefighter. It is my life’s work, and I had no intention of leaving the job I love. “I notified the Groveland Town Administrator on the following Monday morning, July 20, and was placed on sick leave at that time, pending my retirement. “I notified the Groveland Fire Department members on Tuesday, July 21. “That evening, the firefighters moved me to tears when they had me make my final radio call over the airwaves, and then they drove me to my home in Groveland aboard Engine 3, the newest fire truck in our fleet, where more than a dozen of my fellow fire chiefs were waiting. “The fire service is a noble calling, staffed by good and decent human beings who, regardless of whether they are career, call or volunteer firefighters, respond day in and day out to all manner of emergencies in our communities. It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve alongside these dedicated men and women for the past 47 years, and I will miss reporting for work every day. “Thank you to the citizens of Groveland for your support and warm hospitality welcoming me into your community nearly eight years ago, and thank you to the members of the Groveland Fire and Police Departments for your professionalism and commitment to our town. “While this chapter has ended sooner than I expected, I leave knowing I was fortunate to spend nearly five decades serving others in a profession I loved.” - Photos courtesy Groveland FD
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Fire News, September/October 2026, Page 25
Up Close & Personal
Firefighters from the Hartford Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley Chicopee Fire Chief Matt Gross and retired Amherst Fire Chief and legend Tim Nelson. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
East Longmeadow Firefighter Bryan Drury. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
Winchendon (MA) Fire Chief Tom Smith. - Fire News photo by Bryan Favreau
Page 26, Fire News, September/October 2026
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Training
Cellar Fire Simulation
At a recent Fire Academy class for recruits from Fall River (MA) and several surrounding communities, the instructors created an evolution for a simulated cellar fire. - Fire News photo by Ken Leger
Trench Rescue Technicians Course on Nantucket
During the first week of May 2026, 10 members of the Nantucket (MA) Fire Department successfully completed an intensive, 40hour Trench Rescue Technician-level course. The program was specifically designed to address the unique risk profile of Nantucket Island, where a high volume of ongoing construction frequently intersects with unstable, sandy soil conditions. Administered by instructors Rich Alfes and Jim Kenney of Spec Rescue International, the training equips department personnel with the advanced knowledge and hands-on skills required to safely mitigate complex excavation emergencies and trench collapses. - Submitted by Nicholas Esposito
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Fire News, September/October 2026, Page 27
Training
Lost Acres Trains
More Water Flow Drills
On July 21, 2026, Lost Acres (Granby, CT) Fire Department held a drill at the Connecticut Fire Academy. They did the outside truck and car prop for the evening. Crews worked together on techniques and getting reps in. Crews had an attack line and back-up line for the drill, which was overseen by HCRFS instructors Chris Wisneski and JP Smedile. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
June 15, 2026, Suffield (CT) and East Granby (CT) firefighters drilled together on Mountain Road at a dry hydrant location. Both departments worked on drafting and water flow from Tower 108 and the Suffield Engine 3 deck gun. Crews trained for about 90 minutes. Crews were able to maintain water flow throughout the entire drill. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
Page 28, Fire News, September/October 2026
Training Engine Crew Clinic at Fairfield Regional Fire School
On June 22, 2026, I had the privilege to take photography at the Fairfield Regional Fire School for the “Engine Crew Clinic” with Hens Nozzles and the Insight Training crew in Fairfield (CT). About 32 firefighters took part in the class. The morning started out with a classroom presentation by Andrew Starnes. After the presentation the class went to the hands-on portion of the class. Firefighters flowed water with different settings on the Hens nozzles to see different flow patterns and pressure. Crews broke for lunch, which was provided by the Firehouse Deli in Fairfield. The second half of the day firefighters advanced into the burn building on the first and second floors with attack lines and flowed water through hallways and rooms and also performed vertical ventilation. Firefighters worked in teams of three while advancing down halls. To end the class, crews used thermal cameras and watched a live fire demonstration inside the burn building to see the different evolutions of fire through the thermal camera’s eye. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
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Fire News, September/October 2026, Page 29
Looking Back
Fitchburg – 1989
On June 2, 1989 in Fitchburg (MA) a micro burst took down a Church Steeple killing a woman in the car. - Fire News photos by Scott LaPrade
Page 30, Fire News, September/October 2026
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Up Close & Personal
New England FOOLS (Fraternal Order of Leatherheads Society) President Rusty Ricker. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
East Granby (CT) Captain Ryan Gothers. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
(Rear, left to right) Nantucket Firefighter/Paramedic Alana Macey, Firefighter /EMT Tucker McGrath, FF/EMT Tyler Schulz, Firefighter /EMT Raymond McClure, Firefighter /EMT Ry Murphy. (Front, left to right) Firefighter /EMT Owen West, Firefighter/EMT Anthony Bruce, Firefighter/EMT Mario Cameron, Lieutenant/EMT Alex Rezendes, Captain/Paramedic Dave Angelastro. - Submitted by Nicholas Esposito
West Side (MA) Chief CJ Barton, Agawam (MA) Deputy Fire Chief Frank Matusczak and State (MA) Fire Marshall Jon Davine - Fire News photo by John DeForest
On June 29, 2026, East Granby (CT) and Suffield (CT) firefighters drilled together at the Connecticut Fire Academy on a warm evening. Crews would continue to work together as they have done for weeks and this night crews simulated a fire in a large building. Crews went through fire attack 1, fire attack 2, SAR and roof top work. Crews would rotate multiple times before finishing. This also marked the final drill for East Granby Fire Chief Car 8 Kerry Flaherty. Chief Flaherty is retiring from the town. Congrats on a great career chief. Enjoy retirement! - Fire News photo by John DeForest
Branford CT Firefighter Kevin O’Donnell after a car fire on July 14, 2026. - Fire News photo by Jack McCarthy
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Fire News, September/October 2026, Page 31
Cover Story
Early Morning Fire for Salisbury
The Salisbury Fire and Rescue Department (NH), along with auto- for additional manpower and tankers to the scene. No one was home matic mutual aid, were dispatched to a house fire on Old Turnpike at the time of the fire and it was brought under control at 0930. - Fire News photo by Jay Heath Road on July 25, 2026 at 0549 hours. First arriving firefighters found a Cape-style home well involved. A second alarm was called
Page 32, Fire News, September/October 2026
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Chicopee Promotes Cross to Chief
On June 16, 2026, the Chicopee (MA) Fire Department (CFD) held Matt was surrounded by his family and a good amount of the CFD. a ceremony for newly promoted Chief Matt Cross. Matt has been a The ceremony was held at Chicopee City Hall. member in the CFD since 1996 and has risen through the ranks - Fire News photos by John DeForest over the 30 years. Matt replaces now retired Chief Dan Stamborski.
JGPR Gets 12 Awards at 58th Bell Ringer
John Guilfoil Public Relations (JGPR) of Groveland (MA) proudly announced that the company received 12 awards at the 58th Bell Ringer Awards ceremony, on June 4, 2026, and was a finalist for the top PR campaign of the year in New England for the second year in a row. The Bell Ringer Awards are sponsored by the PR Club, a leading networking and education organization for public relations and communications professionals. The awards honor exceptional work in the field of public relations in New England. JGPR was honored with two Gold Bell awards for its two-plus-years campaign supporting and executing the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Lexington (Lex250). Every member of the JGPR team worked with the Town of Lexington, the Lex250 Commission and nearly four dozen partner groups to highlight anniversary events and reintroduce Lexington’s role in the Revolutionary War to a worldwide audience. JGPR connected with local, national, and international media, helping to shine a light on an important historical event. The campaign was honored with Gold Bells in the Hospitality/Travel/Entertainment and Special Event Series categories. By winning a Gold Bell for a campaign, JGPR became one of only five New England public relations agencies to be considered for the Platinum Super Bell, New England’s most prestigious PR award. In total, JGPR won two Gold Bells, three Silver Bells, two Bronze Bells and five Merit Awards. - Submitted by John Guilfoil
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Fire News, September/October 2026, Page 33
Washington Fire Department Celebrates 100th Year Washington (CT) Fire Department recently celebrated 100 years of service with several events, including a parade. - Fire News photo by Ed Harvey
Annual Wet Parade by Berkley FD On June 21, 2026, the Berkley (MA) Fire Department held their annual Father’s Day Parade and Muster. The event is held every year and the parade is billed as a “wet” parade in which the townspeople show up with water balloons and squirt guns to fire at the apparatus while the firefighters fire back with their onboard water supply drenching the participants. - Fire News photo by Ken Leger
Fall River Firefighters Memorial On June 14, 2026, firefighters and their families gathered at the Firefighters Memorial in the south end of Fall River (MA) to honor the memory of our fallen brothers. This year we added two more names to the memorial. The day began with the pledge of allegiance, followed by a prayer from the Fire Department Chaplain. A ceremonial bell was tolled for the fallen firefighters and the recently departed members. The flag was then lowered to halfstaff followed by the reading of the Firefighters Prayer. - Fire News photos by Ken Leger
Page 34, Fire News, September/October 2026
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Tunxis Fire Parade
Tunxis (CT) Hose held their annual fire parade on July11, 2026. Multiple departments from around the state of Connecticut participated. - Fire News photos by Jack McCarthy
West Brookfield’s Deputy Chief Santos Retires On the evening of April 18, 2026, family, friends, brothers and sisters of the West Brookfield (MA) Fire Department came together to celebrate the retirement of Deputy Chief Dan Santos. Santos served on the West Brookfield Fire Department for the past 44 years, working his way from an Auxiliary Firefighter to Deputy Chief of the Department. Wishing you a happy and healthy retirement, C2! - Fire News photos by Adam MacMillan ~ AGM Fire Photography
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Fire News, September/October 2026, Page 35
24 Local Firefighters Graduate from State Fire Academy
27 Local Firefighters Graduate from State Fire Academy
State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine announced the graduation of two dozen recruits from the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy’s Call/Volunteer Recruit Firefighter Training Program. The members of Call/ Volunteer Recruit Class 127 graduated at the Department of Fire Services’ Springfield campus. They represent the fire departments of Belchertown, Brookfield, Dalton, Hampden, Huntington, Leicester, Palmer, South Hadley Fire District 1, South Hadley Fire District 2, Spencer, Three Rivers, Ware, Warren, and West Brookfield. The Martin H. McNamara Outstanding Student Award was presented to Jose Acevedo Rivera of the Huntington Fire Department. The award is named for Martin ‘Marty’ McNamara V, a call firefighter with the Lancaster Fire Department who lost his life in the line of duty in 2003 while battling a fire in a multifamily home. It is presented to one recruit in each graduating call/volunteer training class and recognizes their academic and practical skills, testing, and evaluations over the course of the program. Graduates have completed 240 hours of training on nights and weekends. Upon successful completion of this program, all students have met the national standards of NFPA 1010 Standard for Fire Fighter Professional Qualifications. In addition, they may seek certification to the level of Firefighter I/II and Hazardous Materials Operational Level Responder. - Submitted by Jake Wark
State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine announced the graduation of more than two dozen recruits from the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy’s Call/Volunteer Recruit Firefighter Training Program tonight. The members of Call/Volunteer Recruit Class 126 graduated at the Department of Fire Services’ Springfield campus. They represent the fire departments of Athol, Ayer, Grafton, Hanover, Holden, Hubbardston, Lunenburg, Millis, Northbridge, Paxton, Pepperell, Princeton, Shirley, Stow, Westminster, and Weston. The Martin H. McNamara Outstanding Student Award was presented to Firefighter Thomas Kokernak of the Holden Fire Department. - Submitted by Jake Wark
27 Local Firefighters Graduate from State Fire Academy State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine announced the graduation of more than two dozen recruits from the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy’s Call/Volunteer Recruit Firefighter Training Program tonight. The members of Call/Volunteer Recruit Class #126 graduated at the Department of Fire Services’ Springfield campus. They represent the fire departments of Athol, Ayer, Grafton, Hanover, Holden, Hubbardston, Lunenburg, Millis, Northbridge, Paxton, Pepperell, Princeton, Shirley, Stow, Westminster, and Weston. The Martin H. McNamara Outstanding Student Award was presented to Firefighter Thomas Kokernak of the Holden Fire Department. - Submitted by Jake Wark
29 Local Firefighters Graduate from Firefighting Academy State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine and Massachusetts Firefighting Academy leadership today announced the graduation of 29 firefighters from the 50day Career Recruit Firefighting Training Program. The graduating firefighters of Career Recruit Class 340 represent the fire departments of Acton, Arlington, Hopedale, Ipswich, Lawrence, Leominster, Middleton, Norwood, Orleans, Plainville, Plymouth, Salem, Sudbury, Wakefield, and Westford. The Richard N. Bangs Outstanding Student Award, which is presented to one recruit in each graduating career recruit training class, was presented to Firefighter Stephen McCann of the Plymouth 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
Beacon Hose Company Parade
Everyone Loves a Classic
This classic Seagrave from Beacon Falls brings out smiles all around. - Fire News photo by Ed Harvey
The Beacon Pizza Bar shared their pizza oven pumper and a delicious slice at the Beacon Hose Company Parade. - Fire News photo by Ed Harvey
Page 36, Fire News, September/October 2026
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End of an Era: BJ Calvi Retires
On July 24, 2026, an end of an era took place, as Springfield Fire Commissioner BJ Calvi retired after almost 32 years in the fire service. Calvi started his career in 1995 in Agawam as a firefighter. He was promoted in 2012 to Deputy Fire Chief in Agawam (MA). Calvi became the Fire Commissioner in 2018 in Springfield (MA) as he was sworn in by Mayor Sarno. On July 24, at the John Boyle O’Reilly Club, many gathered to say goodbye to BJ for the final time as he starts his new chapter of life. Many laughs were had and some tears flowed during the event. Key speakers were, Mayor Domenic Sarno, State Fire Marshal Jon Davine, Erica Floyd, Deputy Mike Hess, District Chief Tetreault, Captain Drew Piemonte, and Cassandra Sarno. Best wishes and happy retirement BJ. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
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Fire News, September/October 2026, Page 37
New England FOOLS Training Session On June 5, 2026, the New England FOOLS (Fraternal Order Of Leatherheads Society) kicked off seacoast weekend with Aaron Heller as the lecture guest speaker on commercial building fires. The following day they put on a “Hot Day” of training with great stations with some of the best instructors around. The stations were search and rescue, water flow and hose advancement, roof top operations and overhead door cutting and locks and fence cutting. As usual Rusty Ricker didn’t disappoint on a beautiful Saturday in Newington (NH) at the vacant Fox Run Mall. Almost 30 students attended the day-one session. - Fire News photos by John DeForest
Orange Safety Fair Left: Orange (CT) Firefighter Wendy Camacho gives a toy fire helmet to a visitor at Orange’s Safety Day on July 14, 2026. Members of the Orange Volunteer Fire Department joined the town’s police and public works departments, as well as the Connecticut Army National Guard and US Air Force Reserve members from the 103rd Air Control Squadron, also based in Orange. Several other agencies also had exhibits. The event was hosted by Orange Youth Services at the High Plains Community Center. - Fire News photo by Doug Fenichel
Miguel M. River: New Springfield Commissioner The first Latino Fire Commissioner in Springfield (SFD; MA). Miguel M. (‘Mike’) Rivera, is a proud military veteran, and before being appointed Fire Commissioner by Mayor Domenic Sarno, had served as Deputy Chief of Department Operations for the Springfield Fire Department. Rivera is a lifelong Springfield resident and graduate of Putnam Vocational Technical High School. He has served on the Springfield Fire Department for more than 17 years. Mike joined the department on January 12, 2009. He served five years on the SFD Rescue Squad, as a Bomb Technician on the Bomb Squad, as a Lieutenant, assigned to Truck 1, as well as Captain, serving in the Training Division before commanding Truck 4, and as District Chief, serving District 2, with a focus on hands-on leadership development, team building, and multi-company training. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
East Granby Chief Kerry Flaherty Retires
Enfield (CT) 4th of July Parade
On June 29, 2026, East Granby (CT) and Suffield (CT) firefighters drilled together at the Connecticut Fire Academy on a warm evening. Crews would continue to work together as they have done for weeks and this night crews simulated a fire in a large building. Crews went through fire attack 1, fire attack 2, SAR and roof top work. Crews rotated multiple times before finishing. This also marked the final drill for (left) East Granby Fire Chief Car 8 Kerry Flaherty. Chief Flaherty is retiring from the town. Congrats on a great career chief. Enjoy retirement! - Fire News photo by John DeForest
- Fire News photo by Michael Brinius
Page 38, Fire News, September/October 2026
LIBERTY ARTWORK JUST UNVEILED IT’S NEWEST MONUMENT “TOOLS OF TRADITION” AT THE MARYLAND STATE FIREFIGHTERS ASSOCIATION CONFERENCE IN OCEAN CITY, MD. We finished it the night before we left St. Lous for the conference as it made its way across the country to the east coast. While traveling down the highway we noticed other cars slowing down to take photos of the statue and when we stopped for fuel or food we met brother firefighters who came up to inquire about the monument. The following is the description of the monument and I have attached a picture of my father, Robert Daus Sr. Retired St. Louis Firefighter and founder of Liberty Art Works who was at the Convention to unveil it. This exceptional bronze monument was sculpted to integrate iconic firefighting tools such as an Officer Trumpet, Wooden Ladder, Pike Pole, Straight Bore Nozzle, Fire Ax, and Leather Fire Helmet into a prominent freestanding display of tradition. The tools emerge from a rolled fire hose base which completes the inspiration of the sculpture. The ax will proudly display the department logo on both sides in a 3D form. Finished in a classic brown patina, sealed to withstand the elements, and outfitted with internal stainless-steel pins for mounting. Made in the USA visit www.libertyartworks.com for more information. Total Height 50” width (ax) 36” Hose Base: 21” deep x 25” wide from coupling to edge of hose. Weight: 250lbs approx.
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FINANCIAL FITNESS FOR FIREFIGHTERS You Speak, We’re Listening: Finances Are Crucial To Your Health And Wellness By Ryan Fields-Spack – Associate Director, Responder Wellness, FirstNet®, Built with AT&T Imagine you’ve just been relieved from another grueling firehouse shift. Eighteen calls in 24 hours and almost no sleep. Driving home, your mind drifts from the controlled chaos of the engine to the stack of bills waiting for you. Mortgage payments, student loans, credit card debt—the financial worries that refuse to take a backseat despite the lifesaving work you do. In my 25 years of experience in emergency response, including 7 years with the FirstNet Response Operations Group™ (ROG), I’ve seen firsthand how financial stress can impact the mental health and overall well-being of first responders. And in your responses to the 2026 “What Firefighters Want” survey, you were loud and clear: Firefighters want help with financial well-being. Why Financial Wellness Matters Financial stability is important to a good quality of life. But many firefighters face a unique challenge: the pride and satisfaction of doing their dream job can quickly give way to the realities of the work. In the past, we were expected to figure it out on our own. Things have changed now, and we know that by addressing these financial stressors, you can improve your mental health, job performance, and overall quality of life. As a result, FirstNet has partnered with Ramsey SmartDollar to pilot financial wellness programs specifically tailored to first responders. Created by Dave Ramsey, widely regarded as a financial literacy pioneer, these programs enable fire districts to provide practical tools and resources to help firefighters manage finances, reduce debt, and build a secure financial future. Key Components of Financial Wellness Financial wellness boils down to a few core practices: 1. Creating a budget: It may not be easy or fun, but creating a budget provides a sense of accomplishment and control. 2. Eliminating debt: Getting and staying debt-free is central to true financial wellness. 3. Building an emergency fund: Handling life’s surprises without panic requires a cash cushion. 4. Investing for the future: Build a clear path toward retirement and long-term goals. 5. Changing behavior: Knowing what to do isn’t the problem — doing it is. Real wellness starts with changing money habits. The SmartDollar program guides you step-by-step through each of these to financial stability. You’ll learn how to stick to a budget, get out of debt, save for the future, and build wealth. When it comes to dealing with emergencies, firefighters love a good standard operating procedure. Well, this plan is for you, for transforming your own—and your family’s—futures. FirstNet understands that your job is more than just a profession— it’s a calling. And while we’re known for providing reliable communication during emergencies, we also care deeply about your overall well-being. Taking care of your financial health is just as important as helping to make sure you have the connectivity you need when and where it matters most. Take control of your financial future and learn more about the SmartDollar program.
2ND ANNUAL 9/11 MEMORIAL STAIR CLIMB AT MET LIFE STADIUM IN HONOR OF THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF 9/11 TO RAISE FUNDS FOR NATIONAL FALLEN FIREFIGHTERS FOUNDATION SEPTEMBER 12, 2026 Keep up with our social media pages and future email blasts Join us on Saturday, September 12 at MetLife Stadium as we come together for the 2nd annual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb as we for registration link. ALL raised funds will go to the National Fallen Firefighters honor the 25th Anniversary of 9/11 and fund the programs provided by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation to support the fam- Foundation. To learn more about their mission, visit firehero.org. For any questions or to inquire about volunteering and sponsorilies of the 343 fallen firefighters and the FDNY Counseling ships, please email nj911climb@f-ss.com Service Unit. Registration opened July 15, 2026.
BULLDOG OEM SERVICES NAMES ADAM GRAVES VICE PRESIDENT OF OEM SALES NESQUEHONING, PA | July 27, 2026 – Bulldog OEM Services is pleased to announce that Adam Graves has joined the company as Vice President of OEM Sales. Graves will lead Bulldog’s OEM sales strategy, strengthen relationships with fire apparatus manufacturers and expand awareness of the company’s growing manufacturing capabilities. In his new role, Graves will work directly with OEM and Dealer partners to understand their production needs, develop new business opportunities and identify ways Bulldog can help manufacturer’s overcome capacity constraints and keep apparatus builds moving. He will also support the development of long-term partnerships that align Bulldog’s capabilities with each manufacturer’s operational goals. Graves brings 17 years of fire industry experience across sales, sales engineering, product management, national accounts and supplier-side leadership. Most recently, he served as Director of Sales for the Valor First Responder division of United Safety & Survivability Corporation, where he worked with fire apparatus manufacturers, municipal fleets and military customers on seating, air purification and vehicle safety solutions. His previous experience includes roles with R.O.M., H.O. Bostrom and Kovatch Mobile Equipment (KME). During his time at KME, Graves worked in sales engineering and product management, supporting apparatus specifications, production, product development, customer inspections and post-delivery service. “Adam understands the fire apparatus manufacturing process from several perspectives,” said Bert McCutcheon, COO of Bulldog OEM Services. “He has worked within an apparatus
OEM and has also spent years supporting manufacturers from the supplier side. That experience gives him a strong understanding of the production challenges our partners face and how Bulldog OEM can provide the capacity, craftsmanship and reliability needed to keep their builds moving.” Bulldog OEM Services operates behind the scenes as a manufacturing and fabrication partner for fire apparatus builders. From its 188,000-square-foot facility in Nesquehoning, Pennsylvania, the company provides custom fire body fabrication, pump module assembly, wiring harness production, apparatus upfits, graphics, refurbishment and additional manufacturing services under one roof. Bulldog builds to each OEM’s designs, specifications and quality standards while keeping the manufacturer’s name and brand at the forefront. “Bulldog has built an experienced team with the capabilities needed to provide meaningful support to fire apparatus manufacturers,” Graves said. “I look forward to building strong OEM partnerships and helping manufacturers expand capacity, address production challenges and continue delivering high-quality apparatus to their customers.” Graves is an active member of the Fire Apparatus Manufacturers’ Association and serves on an NFPA committee. He was also invited to Germany to present to NATO fire chiefs. Outside of the fire industry, Graves enjoys fishing, golfing and spending time with his wife and three children. Graves can be reached at 574-370-2288 or agraves@bulldogoem.com.
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Fire News, September/October 2026, Page 39
New Boston Marine Unit 1: The Martin Pierce
A new large fireboat was dedicated on July 28, 2026, at the US Coast Guard Pier off Commercial Street in Boston’s North End, at 1400 hours. The boat is a 70-foot MetalCraft Firestorm with four Caterpillar C-18 turbo diesel engine with four independently operated fire pumps that put out over 12,000 gpm combined. She is also equipped with the latest navigation equipment. She features five monitors, two on the bow, two on the aft and one large one on the roof. The boat was named the Martin Pierce for the late Firefighter Marty Pierce, a very active labor man, who spent his entire career of 37 years at Ladder 17. He was also a WWII Army veteran and his son was former Fire Commissioner/Chief of Department Marty
Pierce. There were several speakers, including Fire Commissioner/Chief of Department Rodney Marshall, Mayor Michelle Wu, Father John Unni, and others. Marty Pierce spoke last about his dad and others — a great job Marty. Archbishop Richard Henning blessed the new boat and Marty’s three children christened the boat. After the ceremony, people went and inspected the boat. She will be known as Marine Unit 1 and joins two other new boats. She went in service at 1800 hours on June 28, 2026. Fire Captain Douglas Felton is the Captain of the Marine Unit and a “Coastie.” The old boat, the John Damrell will be disposed of. - Fire News photos by Bill Noonan