VOLUME 6, NO. 4
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Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Since 1973 JULY 2018
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Fire News Welcomes All To The New England Fire Chiefs Expo -Southern New England Edition-
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Fire News, July 2018, Page 3
In this issue... Somerville 3-Alarmer On May 5, 2018, Somerville (MA) firefighters battled a three-alarm fire on Teele Avenue. See story on page 6
House Goes, Brush Fire Stopped in Smithfield Smithfield (RI) Engine 2 arrived to find a well-involved large, two-story, wood frame dwelling on fire. See story on page 7
12 Displaced at MultiAlarm Fire in Seymour On April 14, 2018, Seymour (CT) volunteers received a call for a structure fire in a two-story apartment building on South Main. See story on page 11
Fatality at Rochester 3-Alarm Rochester (MA) firefighters were dispatched to Walnut Plain Road for a house fire with one person out and one still inside. See story on page 19
3 Dead in Shelton MVA
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FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher TIM EDWARDS, Executive Editor DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor GARY P. JOYCE, Asst. Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production/Sales CLIFF CHIESA, Art Director/Production Manager Advertising Sales: BARBARA CONNOLLY, EVELYN ALOISIO Graphic Artists: GREG JONES, LYNN SEDLER CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS ALAN BRACKETT, AMANDA CARMODY, THOMAS CARMODY, OWEN CARRIGAN, ROGER CONANT, KEVIN CZARZASTY, TIM DELANEY, ROB DILLON, PATRICK DOOLEY, DOUG DOW, OLIVIA DRAKE, GLENN DUDA, LIZ FEITELBERG, JIM FORTIN, JR., SEAN FREIMAN, TIM GORMAN, JOHN HANLEY, ED HARVEY, JEFFREY HASTINGS, STEPHEN HESS, MIKE IPPOLITO, DORRANCE “DOC” JOHNSON, RICK KULMANN, KEN LABELLE, ROBERT LADD, MICHAEL LAPRADE, SCOTT LAPRADE, PAUL LAROCHELLE, JR., KEN LEGER, CHARLIE MCGRATH, KEITH MURATORI, BOB MYERS, RICK NOHL, BILL NOONAN, PETER OSTROSKEY JR., CHRIS PALMER, JIM PERUTA, PETER POZERSKI, GLENN PRESTON, ROB REARDON, LARRY RILEY, DICK SCIALABBA, PAUL SHEA, JOE SHEFER, NICK STEHN, CHRIS STEINES, RICK SUSI, KEVIN TAPPE, JON TENCA PAT TRAVERS, STEPHEN WALSH, DEVON WHALEN, KEVIN WHITE, MICHAEL YOUNG COPYRIGHT 2018, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
The Shelton (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to River Road near Murphy’s Lane for a fatal two-car MVA. See story on page 29
One Happy Puppy Carver (MA) firefighters employed airbags and cribbing to lift a shed up and rescue a 10-year-old Newfoundland named Duke. See story on page 32
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 Southern NE Firefighters in Action ...pages 33-35 Up Close & Personal . . . . . . . . . . . .pages 36-38 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 45 Special Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 46 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 46
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Page 4, Fire News, July 2018
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
Effects of Technology on the Fire Service If I close my eyes, I can visualize our heroes of the past jumping off their rigs and running into burning buildings to search for possible occupants, locate the source of the fire, while stretching heavy 2-1/2 inch lines to knock down the fire. As a spectator, I could almost count the minutes it took for firefighters to get to a third-floor apartment. I would listen for the breaking glass as truck companies vented and I would watch for a short burst of water as firefighters neared the fire room, signaling me that the flames were about to be knocked out. As a seasoned spectator, I learned to move to a spot on the street so that I would not get hit with the spray of water as the advancing line was used to vent the room through the window. Despite seeing firefighters physically worn out and beat up from performing their duty, it was this memory that made me want to be a firefighter. Today, the memory of the past has been modernized by the concern for firefighters’ health and safety. Yes, we are still putting the wet stuff on the red stuff, but we are doing it with the help of technology with the goal of protecting the firefighter. Look through Fire News and study our ads. Look at the equipment that we have, which makes the art of firefighting a little
safer for us. Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) has become more comfortable to wear and offers better protection with high temperature masks and air level visibility. Our personal alert safety system (PASS alarm) is built into the pack and now has the capability to let command search and locate you if your PASS alarm activates. Our gear is much more than pull up boots and a Nomex coat. Bailout systems are an important part of our personal safety for interior firefighters. How about the equipment we use? Hydraulic extrication tools have gotten lighter to use. They are more powerful and have specially designed cutters to handle the exotic metals used in today’s cars. The new generation of tools utilize battery power. The new tools are faster and perform better than in the past. New lighting equipment is like a scene out of Star Wars. Handlights used by responders cut through smoke like never before and offer greater visibility for the responder. Nighttime emergency scenes are well lit for our protection. Our gear includes highly reflective material so that you can easily be seen while you operate on scene. I could go on and on and continue to talk
about firefighter accountability systems, new communication systems, safer vehicles, responding aps and management systems. Once again, I urge you to read the ads in Fire News to learn what new equipment is available to you. The new space age technology being utilized by today’s fire service is designed to improve firefighter effectiveness and firefighter safety. New technology is designed to let the responders of today do a dangerous job more efficiently with safety in mind. Be open to new ideas and new equipment. Today’s technology has your safety in mind. You can't argue with that! -Dennis
Page 6, Fire News, July 2018
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Baltic Mill Burns
Baltic (CT) firefighters were called to the scene of the former Baltic Mills just opposite their station on Bushnell Hollow Road on April 23, 2018. Crews encountered a four-story building with fire burning salvaged lumber that had been stacked on several floors due to the ongoing demolition. The fire spread throughout the windowless building pushed along by a brisk southeasterly wind. The winds sent embers flying some 300 to 400 feet onto the rooftop of a neighboring railroad freight building, and then beyond into a heavily wooded hillside that was part of the town’s reservoir system. Numerous companies were brought in to take up drafting positions in the nearby Shetucket River, supplying three towers and multiple handlines. As this was happening a large contingent took on the woodlands fire. The mill building fire was finally brought under control, and wetdown began. The fire in the woods ended up spreading to 12 acres. It is believed the fire started while workers were utilizing cutting torches in the mill building. - Fire News photos by Joe Shefer, Thomas Mieldzioc and Robert Ladd, CFPA
Somerville 3-Alarmer
On May 5, 2018, Somerville (MA) firefighters battled a three-alarm fire on Teele Avenue. Originally reported as a porch fire, companies arrived to find smoke and fire showing from the rear and requested a full fire assignment. Ultimately, three alarms were struck for additional manpower as the fire had extended through the walls of the second floor into the third and through the roof of the large 2-1/2 story, occupied, multiple dwelling. The fire was brought under control in about an hour’s time with no injuries reported. - Fire News photos by Kevin White and Owen Carrigan
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Fire News, July 2018, Page 7
House Goes, Brush Fire Stopped in Smithfield
Smithfield (RI) Engine 2 arrived to find a well-involved large, twostory, wood frame dwelling, which sat some 1500 feet off the road, on fire. Deputy Chief Sutherland requested a second alarm on his arrival. The narrow driveway was also on a steep incline. Engine 2 was the only apparatus able to get to the scene once the four-inch LDH feeders were laid. A big line and deck gun were deployed but
had little effect on the heavy windblown fire. The building collapsed as second-alarm companies arrived. A brush fire began to run the hill on the Delta side towards exposures. This was knocked down using Engine 2’s trash line from the front bumper. - Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
Page 8, Fire News, July 2018
Good Work in Southbridge
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Southbridge (MA) firefighters responded to a fire in an old New England three-decker on West Street on May 10, 2018. The fire was called seconds after on-duty Southbridge fire personnel were dispatched for an unrelated medical call. The first-due, three-man engine crew arrived to heavy smoke showing from a three-story, wood frame, multi-family dwelling. Lt. John Larochelle immediately struck a second alarm while he and Firefighter John Mathieu stretched a big line to the second floor. Neighbors had already evacuated those residents. The pair of Southbridge firefighters entered the second floor to find the entire apartment in flames and did a great job of advancing through the five rooms of the apartment, knocking down fire along the way. Help arrived and additional lines were taken to the fire floor as well as the floor above to check for extension. Mutual aid came from Sturbridge, Charlton, Dudley, Webster, and Oxford fire departments. Twenty-four people were displaced, and the American Red Cross was called to assist those residents. - Fire News photo by Alan Brackett
1 Burned at East Providence Fire On May 20, 2018, while responding to an MVA in East Providence (RI), Providence Rescue 6 came across a house fire on Brightridge Avenue. They notified East Providence Fire Alarm of the situation and informed them that they were stopping their response to the MVA and going in to evacuate the house. East Providence dispatched a full assignment to the fire. Firefighters arrived to heavy fire showing from the rear. A second alarm was struck, bringing mutual aid to the scene from Providence and Barrington. The fire appeared to have started in a garage underneath the house. The fire extended to the first floor but was contained by firefighters. One person received burns from the fire, which was brought under control within 30 minutes. - Fire News photo by Tom Carmody
Multiple Car Fire Arsons in Whitman Around 0100 on May 1, 2018, the Whitman (MA) Fire Department responded to a reported car fire on Day Street. Companies arrived to find several motor vehicles in a parking lot on fire. Lieutenant Al Cunningham requested additional manpower. Companies advanced handlines into the parking lot. Off-duty personnel responded in another engine and assisted. Three vehicles suffered heavy fire damage, while two others suffered minor damage. Whitman Police and Fire investigated the fire as suspicious and Lieutenant Cunningham was approached by two men, one of whom was known to him. He reported the interaction to the police, who began investigating. Video surveillance from the scene showed two men entering the fenced-in lot, followed by the fire being set, then the two men leaving the scene. Whitman Police arrested and charged the two men. The Plymouth County Sheriff’s Department BCI Unit and the Massachusetts State Fire Marshal’s Office also assisted in the investigation. - Fire News photo by Pat Travers
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Fire News, July 2018, Page 9
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Canterbury Colonial Goes
The Canterbury (CT) Fire Department was dispatched for a structure fire on North Canterbury Road-Route 169. Crews were met with heavy fire conditions the full length of the front porch of an 18th century 2-1/2 story colonial. The front was quickly knocked down with big lines, but not before the fire had extended up throughout the balloon-framed structure and quickly took over the attic. Final suppression was accomplished after three aerials and several handlines were put into service. Numerous mutual aid was brought in for tankers and hose tenders in Canterbury’s very rural district. - Fire News photo by Joe Shefer
Carver FF Loses House On April 9, 2018, the Carver (MA) Fire Company’s 1, 2 and 3 were dispatched to a structure fire in the area of South Main Street. The initial response included Engines 1, 2 and 4; Heavy Rescue 1; Tanker 1; Breakers 27 and 29; Command Cars 1 and 2; and Squad 1. Units were met with heavy fire conditions throughout the structure. Mutual aid came from Plymouth, Wareham, Middleboro and Plympton. Over 30,000 gallons of water was shuttled into the fire scene. The home was built in the 1750s and was of balloon-type construction, allowing the fire to spread. Firefighters worked feverishly for well over an hour to control the blaze, trying to save the home and belongings. The home belonged to a retired dispatcher and active firefighter who lost everything. - Fire News photo by Rob Reardon
2-Alarm Fire in Pittsfield On May 7, 2018, Pittsfield (MA) Fire’s B Group responded to a structure fire on Brown Street. - Submitted by Devon Whalen
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Fire News, July 2018, Page 11
Quick Stop in Stamford
Stamford (CT) firefighters were dispatched to the Edgehill retirement home on Palmers Hill Road on March 15, 2018, for a report of smoke and flames visible from one of the buildings. First arriving crews found fire on a second-floor balcony of the building. A line was quickly stretched and the fire was knocked down and did not extend beyond a small spot on the porch. A second alarm was called as a precaution due to the type of the building. - Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com
12 Displaced at MultiAlarm Fire Seymour On April 14, 2018, Seymour (CT) volunteers received a call for a structure fire in a multi-unit, two-story apartment building on South Main. First-due units reported heavy fire in the common attic space, at which time mutual aid was requested from Ansonia, Oxford and Bethany. With heavy fire burning through and collapsing the roof, companies were forced to take up an exterior attack and utilize the deck guns on the Seymour and Ansonia tower ladders. Ten of the 20 units were destroyed leaving at least 12 people homeless but all escaped without injury. One firefighter received minor injuries. - Fire News photo by Kevin Czarzasty
Page 12, Fire News, July 2018
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Ludlow House Fire
The Ludlow (MA) Fire Department responded to a fire in a single-story wood frame on West Street on April 7, 2018, just before 2230. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
Cranston Garage Fire
Cranston (RI) firefighters responded to a garage fire in the rear of smoke showing and quickly stretched a line to knock down the fire. a home on Calaman Road on April 22, 2018. Companies arrived to - Fire News photos by Kevin White and Ken LaBelle
Derby House Fire On March 23, 2018, the Derby (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to Oak Street for a house fire. First companies on scene found heavy fire on the first floor of an occupied 1-1/2 story wood frame. All occupants made it out safely before fire units arrived. - Fire News photo by Keith Muratori
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Fire News, July 2018, Page 13
Westminster Car Fire Westminster (MA) firefighters responded to a car fire on April 8, 2018. A family of two adults and three children were able to escape unharmed. - Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade
14 Displaced by Bridgeport 3-Alarm On March 25, 2018, Bridgeport (CT) Battalion 1 reported a three-story, wood frame on fire on Federal Street. Companies arrived to heavy fire on the second and third floors with exposure problems. The number two side exposure soon became involved prompting a second alarm. Companies attempted to make a push on the fire from the interior but were driven out. Second alarm companies went to work darkening down the fire with master streams on both dwellings. A third alarm was transmitted for manpower. The blaze took about 45 minutes to bring under control using one tower ladder, a multi-versal and multiple handlines. Fourteen people were displaced. - Fire News photo by Glenn Duda
Page 14, Fire News, July 2018
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Quick Work in Andover
Andover (MA) firefighters handled a fully involved car fire on April 22, 2018, in the parking lot of a drycleaners on North Main Street. Due to the proximity to the structure, a full box alarm assignment of Engines 1 and 3, with Ladder 1, Ambulance 1 and the Deputy Chief were dispatched. Firefighters ran a single line and had the fire knocked down within a few minutes. - Fire News photo by Kevin White
Simsbury Barn Fire Early on April 24, 2018, the Simsbury (CT) Volunteer Fire Company received a call reporting a barn fire. Upon arrival, they found an approximately 30 x 70 wood frame barn 30 to 40 percent involved. Some empty propane cylinders, gasoline containers, several tractors and miscellaneous motorized equipment were inside. The fire was knocked down in under 30 minutes. - Fire News photo by Kitty Vangunten
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Fire News, July 2018, Page 15
Duct Work 4-Alarmer in Woonsocket
A fourth alarm was required to bring a fire under control in a commercial building in Woonsocket (RI) on Privilege Street on May 21, 2018. The fire was in a machine and ductwork that the company used for natural fibers. Companies arrived to heavy smoke from the single-story steel-and-metal clad building. Sprinklers were operating but were not containing the fire. Firefighters stretched in to find the seat of the fire, which took several hours to contain, as firefighters needed to open up the ductwork. A special call went out to the Massachusetts’s District 7 Mobile Ventilation Unit which has a 125,000-cfm fan to exhaust smoke and carbon monoxide from the building. - Fire News photos by Ken LaBelle and Tom Carmody
Page 16, Fire News, July 2018
Church Fire in Hartford
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On April 25, 2018, Hartford (CT) firefighters responded to a fire in the basement of the Bible Way Temple Nation Church on Main Street. All occupants made it out of the church safely and firefighters made quick work of the fire. - Fire News photos by Patrick Dooley and Jim Peruta, CFPA
Leominster Fire On April 7, 2018, Leominster (MA) firefighters responded to a fire in a single-family dwelling. Units arrived to heavy fire showing from the rear. Firefighters stretched a 2-1/2 inch line to the rear to knock down the heavy fire before getting inside to get to the heavy fire on the top floor and attic. As the ladder crew opened up the roof, heavy smoke and fire began to vent. Mutual aid came from Fitchburg. No one was home at the time of the fire. - Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade
Griswold Basement Fire On May 15, 2018, Griswold (CT) Fire responded to Brewster Road for a basement fire. First arriving unit reported heavy smoke from the building, then fire was found on the first floor extending to the second. Crews worked the fire for over hour in confined pockets of the dwelling. Several lines were placed in operation. The home was heavily damaged. - Fire News photo by Robert Ladd, CFPA
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Fire News, July 2018, Page 17
Sudbury 2-Alarmer
The Sudbury (MA) Fire Department was dispatched to Goodman’s Hill Road for a structure fire on May 2, 2018. C2 arrived to heavy smoke showing from the attic of a 1-1/2 story wood frame and ordered a second alarm. Crews stretched multiple handlines to the interior and found heavy fire on the second floor. Heavy fire in the attic was beginning to vent through the roof, so command backed out the interior crews for defensive operations. Ladder 1 set up its ladder pipe and had the bulk of the fire knocked down in five minutes. Crews re-entered to hit remaining hot spots and overhaul. A dog was rescued during the secondary search and reunited with the homeowner. Sudbury was assisted at the scene by Framingham, Marlborough, Maynard and Wayland. - Fire News photo by Jim Fortin, Jr.
Barn Fire Kills 34 Animals On April 5, 2018, Ellington (CT) firefighters responded to a twoalarm barn fire on Crane Road. Mutual aid companies arrived to find a barn fully involved. Thirty-four pigs and piglets were killed in the fire. - Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
Page 18, Fire News, July 2018
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Total Loss in Dracut Dracut (MA) firefighters were dispatched, on May 3, 2018, to a house fire on Methuen Road. Upon arrival, heavy smoke was found pushing from the garage of the 2-1/2 story raised ranch. Fire was also visible on the B side wall near the electrical drop, rapidly extending up, which prompted a request for a second alarm followed by a third. The deputy chief ordered companies to stretch a line in the front door to the upper floor to stop the fire’s advancement but as crews made entry, the fire reportedly blew out the wall horizontally, knocking the firefighters back. The fire had gained so much headway before arrival that it had already extended past the first floor and into the attic where it had full control. After the floor buckled and collapsed over the garage, crews evacuated andd transitioned to a defensive attack. Crews operated multiple lines with an aerial master stream from Ladder 1. The home was a total loss. - Fire News photo by Kevin White
East Hartford 3-Alarm East Hartford (CT) firefighters responded to a three-alarm fire on April 11, 2018. The alarm was called at 0215 on Tolland Street in a used appliance repair business. Mutual aid came from Manchester and Hartford. - Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
Malden 3-Alarmer On April 18, 2018, the Malden (MA) Fire Department responded to a fire in a 2-1/2 story wood frame dwelling on Ashland Street. Second and third alarms were ordered, and firefighters from neighboring communities assisted in bringing the fire under control. - Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan
Worcester Apartment House 3-Alarm On May 29, 2018, Worcester (MA) firefighters responded to a master box alarm on Main Street. Engine 5 and Ladder 4 arrived to residents reporting their apartment on fire. There was heavy fire in the top floor of the four-story brick apartment building with fire venting out the back windows. A second alarm was called, bringing in additional resources. The abnormally warm temperatures proved to be challenging for firefighters and a few received minor injuries. A third alarm was called for manpower. Crews made a great stop minimizing damage to the building. There were some pets rescued from the building, but one dog perished. - Fire News photo by Paul Shea
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Fatality at Rochester 3-Alarm
On May 20, 2018, Rochester (MA) firefighters were dispatched to Walnut Plain Road for a house fire with one person out and one still inside. Firefighters arrived and immediately went into an aggressive offensive attack with a search operation as well. Crews cleared the basement and the first floor, where a man was found inside the front door entryway. He was pulled from the building and CPR was started immediately by firefighters and paramedics. The victim was transported to Tobey Hospital in Wareham where he was pronounced dead. The female victim was also transported to the hospital for non-life-threatening injuries; a dog was also found dead. Firefighters continued to aggressively battle the fire but had to pull out of the building due to soft floors on the first floor with fire beneath. Big lines were put into operation and water issues began to affect operations as there were no hydrants. Multiple tankers were called. The fire reached three alarms before being placed under control. Marion, Mattapoisett, Middleboro, Freetown, Acushnet, and Wareham responded on mutual aid. - Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com
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New Britain 2-Alarm
New Britain (CT) firefighters responded to a two-alarm fire on Arch Street on April 8, 2018. The rear porches were well involved on arrival and a second alarm was quickly called. Area cities sent mutual aid to standby the vacant firehouses. Units were on scene for several hours overhauling and chasing hotspots. - Fire News photos by Ken LaBelle and Jim Peruta, CFPA
Quick Work in North Providence North Providence (RI) Engine 2 and Ladder 1 responded to a car fire on Allen Avenue on May 21, 2018. The car was unoccupied and was quickly knocked down, preventing extension to the exposures. - Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
Shelton House Fire On May 6, 2018, the Shelton (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to Toas Street for a structure fire. First arriving units found heavy fire out the second floor D-side windows of a 1-1/2 story cape. All occupants had escaped from the fire before arrival of fire units. - Fire News photo by Keith Muratori
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Fire News, July 2018, Page 21
Meriden Recycling Business Fire
On the morning of April 13, 2018, an alarm was sounded for a structure fire on Hall Avenue in the City of Meriden (CT). Crews arrived to heavy fire showing from a building housing JC Auto Recycling. With heavy interior fire and fire venting from the roof, a tiller ladder was put to work. With almost all of Meriden’s resources committed to the fire, mutual aid was called from Berlin, Southington and Wallingford for cover. - Fire News photo by Kevin Czarzasty
Johnston House Fire Several 911 calls rang into the Johnston (RI) Fire Alarm Office for a house fire on West Scenic Drive on April 8, 2018. Engine 4 arrived and reported a well-involved raised ranch dwelling. The crew led off with a big line and began to do an exterior attack. Several handlines played water into the dwelling for 30 minutes to get the fire knocked down to safely allow interior operations. Firefighters overhauled and mopped up hidden pockets of fire for several hours. Three occupants were home at the time of the fire. They were all safely evacuated with minor burns and smoke inhalation. - Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
Page 22, Fire News, July 2018
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Commercial Blaze in West Haven
On May 12, 2018, the West Haven (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to Peabody Street for a commercial building fire. First companies found a building with heavy smoke pushing from the warehouse. Members went defensive immediately due to being unsure of the contents of the building. The fire went to a second alarm before being placed under control. - Fire News photos by Keith Muratori and Glenn Duda
Manchester Car Fire On April 6, 2018, Manchester (CT) members responded to a car fire at Carter Street and Blue Ridge Drive. - Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
Holden Barn Fire On April 3, 2018, about 35 firefighters from six area towns assisted at a barn fire in Holden. Units arrived to find workers and owners removing animals from inside the barn. The utility section of the barn was fully involved and starting to spread to the main section. Firefighters from Rutland, Paxton, Barre, Hubbardston and Oakham assisted. Firefighters were on scene over two hours wetting down. - Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade
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Fire News, July 2018, Page 23
Bridgeport Structure Fire
On March 21, 2018, while the state prepared for its fourth Nor’easter of the season, the Bridgeport (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to Hanover Street for a structure fire. First units found heavy fire showing from the A and D sides of the first and second floors of a boarded up, two-story, vacant house. After an aggressive interior attack, the fire was quickly put in check with the original all-hands assignment. There were no reported injuries from the blaze. - Fire News photo by Keith Muratori
Worcester Garage Fire April 12, 2018, Worcester (MA) firefighters were called to Woods Avenue near the Holden line for a report of a building fire. Companies arrived to find fire in a small, detached two-car garage. A two-andone assignment remained on scene to extinguish the fire. - Fire News photo by Paul Shea
Page 26, Fire News, July 2018
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Smoke Alarms Save the Day
Residents of a Warwick’s (RI) George Arden Road home safely evacuated their 1-1/2 story, wood frame Cape Cod early on the morning of May 6, 2018, thanks to smoke detectors. The first-due apparatus was faced with heavy fire conditions on the Delta side. Two vehicles in the driveway were also on fire and the exposure on the Delta side sustained radiant heat damage. One resident was transported for evaluation for smoke inhalation. - Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
Police Standoff, House Explosion in North Haven On May 2, 2018, in North Haven (CT), a South Central Connecticut Regional SWAT team attempted to arrest a subject at a home on Quinnipiac Avenue. When the police went to enter, the home exploded. The incident began three days prior when the man beat and held his wife captive. She escaped to the North Haven police headquarters, prompting the response to the house. The man was an EDP known to have guns in the house. He barricaded himself in the home and it was thought he booby trapped the house to injure first responders. Eight police officers were injured and taken to area hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries. a body was found in the structure but was unidentified. Firefighters were not allowed to enter the home and had to let the house, a barn and an RV on the property burn. - Fire News photo by Glenn Duda
18 Displaced in Springfield
On April 9. 2018, Springfield (MA) firefighters responded to a fire on Bancroft Street in Springfield. The fire quickly went to a second alarm with an additional special call for manpower. Eighteen people were displaced and the building was a complete loss. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
Correction
The firefighter identified in the bottom right photo on page 41 of the May 2018 issue was incorrect. His name is Lieutenant PJ Roy. Fire News regrets the error.
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Miss Deer, Crash Car
Kingston (MA) Fire Department responded to Country Club Way for a vehicle down an embankment. The operator reported he swerved to miss a deer and went off the road. There were no injuries. - Fire News photo by John Sjostedt
Fire News, July 2018, Page 27
Multiple Fatality MVA in New Hartford
On May 11, 2018, a head-on crash in New Hartford (CT) between two trucks closed Route 44 for hours. Two passengers were heavily entrapped in the wreckage and declared deceased at the scene while one person was able to be rapidly extricated and transported to an LZ for a Lifenet helicopter coming out of New York State. At the onset of the call, ambulances were dispatched from New Hartford and Canton along with two helicopters from New York and one from Massachusetts. The patient transported was brought to Hartford Hospital in critical condition. - Fire News photo by Kevin Czarzasty
Page 28, Fire News, July 2018
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Car vs. Pole in Whitman
On April 6, 2018, the Whitman (MA) Fire Department responded to an MVA on Auburn Street. Companies arrived to find a car had collided with a pole, shattering it in half. The vehicle then collided into a wooden fence at the front of the property, destroying it. The single-vehicle accident sent one victim to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The roadway was closed for an extended period of time due to low hanging wires across the road, and for the power company to replace the pole. . - Fire News photo by Pat Travers
Stamford Tanker Rollover with HazMat On April 30, 2018, Stamford (CT) firefighters were dispatched to Fairfield Avenue for a report of a tanker truck which had rolled over. First arriving crews found a tanker truck with 34,000 pounds of methyl methacrylate laying on its side in a parking lot. Although there were no visible leaks from the tanker, a safe zone was established and a mandatory evacuation was put into place. No one was
injured during the incident. Members of the Stamford Fire Department, EMS, Police, Fire Marshal's office, the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, Fairfield Fire Department, and the Connecticut State Police all operated on scene. - Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com
Leominster Car into Building Leominster (MA) firefighters shore up the balcony at an apartment building where a car crashed, knocking down the supports. - Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade
Fall River Rollover Shortly after midnight on May 26, 2018, Fall River (MA) Fire Department units responded to Haffards Street for a single-vehicle rollover. One victim was transported to Rhode Island Hospital. - Fire News photo by Ken Leger
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Fire News, July 2018, Page 29
3 Dead in Shelton MVA
On April 8, 2018, the Shelton (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to River Road near Murphy’s Lane for a fatal two-car MVA. A small car headed south on River Road crashed into a small sedan traveling northbound. Two of the three people in the southbound car were pronounced at the scene, while the driver was transported
to the hospital in critical condition. One of the deceased was also eight-months pregnant. Three people were also traveling in the other car and were transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. - Fire News photo by Keith Muratori
Page 30, Fire News, July 2018
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Training
Training on Arlington Ladder 1 Tower The Town Arlington (MA) Fire Department is the proud owner of a 2018 Pierce Arrow XT 95-foot Mid-Mount Tower. All of the department members are receiving training in the operation of the unit. - Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan
Controlled Burn in Burrillville The members of the Burrillville (RI) fire districts conducted a prescribed burn at the Addieville East Farm off Tarklin Road on April 18, 2018. Members trained on wildland/brush fire operations during the burn. - Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
SE Massachusetts Technical Rescue Teams Hold Training On May 2, 2018, the Southeastern Massachusetts Technical Rescue Team conducted regional structural collapse training in Plymouth. Teams from Plymouth, Norfolk, Bristol, Barnstable and Dukes counties all participated in the day-long training which included breaking and breaching, lifting and moving, cutting, and shoring stations. - Fire News photo by Pat Travers
Hazardous Materials Maritime Training On May 3, 2018, the Maritime Incident Response Team (MIRT) and the Technical Support Unit (TSU) of the Department of Fire Services’ Hazardous Materials Emergency Response Program conducted a training exercise in Gloucester Harbor. The U.S. Coast Guard, the Gloucester Harbormaster, the District 6 HazMat team, and the Beverly, Gloucester, Marblehead, Newburyport, and Salisbury Fire Departments participated in the exercise that simulated a response for a hazardous material on an off-shore vessel. This exercise allowed team members to practice their skills responding to off-shore incidents requiring inter-agency cooperation. One of the goals of the exercise was to establish and improve working relationships and response measures among these agencies. The exercise included getting responders and equipment to a seaside vessel, vessel-to-vessel boarding, communications, and learning to maneuver on board a vessel while wearing hazardous materials protection. The Hazardous Material Emergency Response division of the Department of Fire Services has six regionally based HazMat teams which respond primarily to industrial and transportation incidents. The Maritime Incident Response Team was created in the wake of a 2010 incident when a fishing boat out of New Bedford hauled in WWI mustard gas canisters along with its catch, seriously injuring one man. - Submitted by Jennifer Mieth, photos by DFS Staff
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Fire News, July 2018, Page 31
RIT Class in Woonsocket
The Greater Woonsocket (RI) Fire Chiefs Association sponsored an encompassed many scenarios to assist firefighters who are trapped RIT Class by P.L. Vulcan Training Concepts at a donated building or lost in a building fire. - Fire News photos by Ken LaBelle on Asylum Street in Woonsocket on May 9, 2018. The two-day class
Page 32, Fire News, July 2018
One Happy Puppy
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Carver (MA) firefighters employed airbags and cribbing to lift a shed up and rescue a 10-year-old Newfoundland named Duke. It took firefighters about 20 minutes to free the dog and, once freed, he immediately began kissing the firefighters. Another happy customer! - Fire News photos by Rob Reardon
Simsbury Responds for Brookfield Storm As a part of Task Force 54, the Simsbury (CT) Volunteer Fire Company responded to Brookfield to assist after a major storm severely damaged the town. Rescue 14 with a crew of five, participated in searching homes and vehicles impacted. Also responding as a part of Task Force 54 were crews from Avon, Burlington, Town of Canton, Farmington and Lost Acres. - Submitted by Kitty Vangunten, photo courtesy of the Simsbury VFC
Car into Building in Hudson On May 11, 2018, fire crews responded to an MVA in Hudson (MA) in which a car lost control and crashed into an apartment building causing significant structural damage. The District 14 Tech Rescue team was called in to help shore up the building. - Fire News photo by Paul Shea
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Fire News, July 2018, Page 33
Southern New England Firefighters in Action
A storm passing through the area kept the Framingham (MA) Fire Department busy for a couple hours on May 15, 2018. - Fire News photo by Jim Fortin Jr.
tuate On April 20, 2018, Sci ded to (RI) firefighters respon a fire on Main Street, the bordering Cranston in city. Fiskville section of the - Fire News photo by Tom Carmody
Duxbury Firefighter Tim Geary finishes knocking down a car fire on Route 3 in Duxbury. - Fire News photo by Rob Reardon
On May 14, 2018, Oxford (MA) firefighters responded to a report of a fire on Wells Street on the Leicester line. - Fire News photo by Paul Shea
Page 34, Fire News, July 2018
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Southern New England Firefighters in Action
On May 11, 2018, Fall River (MA) firefighter s responded to a fire in a single-bay det - Fire News photo by Ken ached garage. Leger
Street seconde 10’s crew at a Gallatin Providence’s (RI) Engin fire on March 24, 2018. floor kitchen LaBelle - Fire News photo by Ken
On March 31, 2018, We st Hartford (CT) had all companies working at a fire on Led gew - Fire News photo by Pat ood Drive. rick Dooley
On May 16, 2018, Reading (MA) firefighters were alerted to a house fire on Putnam Road. - Fire News photo by Kevin White
Firefighters in Milford (CT) responded to Naugatuck Road for the report of a house fire. - Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com
On April 14, 2018, the Fire Department was dis Windsor Locks (CT) patched to George Road for a fully involved shed fire . - Fire News photo by Cor al Ruggiero
(CT) Station fighters at the Ellsworth the street. On March 3, 2018, fire oss acr fire a ors to report were alerted by neighb th Muratori - Fire News photo by Kei
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Southern New England Firefighters in Action
On May 9, 2018, Colchester Fire and Yantic FAST responded to Bulkeley Hill Road in Colcheste r (CT) for a house fire. - Fire News photo by Robert Ladd, CFPA
re fire s dispatched to a structu Waterbury (CT) Fire wa dwelling on Glen Street. in an occupied multiin Czarzasty - Fire News photo by Kev
On May 4, 2018, the Arlington (MA ) Fire Department responded for a building fire in a Chinese restaurant on Massachusetts Avenue in Arlington Center. - Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan
Fire News, July 2018, Page 35
Page 36, Fire News, July 2018
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Up Close & Personal
Woonsocket (RI) firefighters at a four-alarm fire on Privilege Street on May 21, 2018. - Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
Members of Meriden (CT) Engine 3 responded to a two-alarm fire on April 10, 2018. - Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
Springfield (MA) Fire Department D group L3 and District Chief 2 Captain Ty Denson, Firefighter Glen Carpenter, District Chief 2 Brian Pereira and Firefighter Felix Rivera. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
Battalion Chief David DeStefano at an electrical fire at Our Place Tuxedo and Uniforms on Smith Street in North Providence (RI) on May 5, 2018.. - Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
On May 11, 2018, A Southbridge (MA) firefighter with a rescued dog at a Cross Street fire.
Dracut (MA), and Lawrence (MA) firefighters working a fire on May 3, 2018, on Methuen Road.
- Fire News photo by Alan Brackett
- Fire News photo by Kevin White
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Fire News, July 2018, Page 37
Up Close & Personal
Firefighters from Providence (RI) at an attic fire on Amherst Street on March 31, 2018. - Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
Seymour (CT) Assistant Chief Christopher Edwards at an allhands fire on Clifton Street on June 1, 2018. - Fire News photo by Keith Muratori
Page 38, Fire News, July 2018
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Up Close & Personal
West Haven (CT) firefighters at a two-alarm fire in the Allingtown section on May 12, 2018. - Fire News photo by Glenn Duda
Lieutenant Michael Doolin talking to District Chief Erik Pettaway (Car 7). - Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade
A Wareham firefighter from Engine 1 pulls a hose at a threealarm fatal fire on Walnut Plain Road in Rochester (MA). - Fire News photos by PuckStopperPhotography.com
Worcester (MA) firefighters from the McKeon Road Station Melissa Mercadante and Ramon Rodriquez. - Fire News photo by Paul LaRochelle
Cranston (RI) firefighters at a blaze at a Waste Management transfer station on March 20, 2018, in Warwick. - Fire News photo by Tom Carmody
Newly appointed Charlton Deputy Chief Jason Cantera with his son, Charlton Probationary Firefighter Nick Cantera. - Fire News photo by Paul Shea
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Fire News, July 2018, Page 39
IFBA Meeting in Exter
Exeter (NH) former Engine 2, a 1942 Seagrave pumper, now in the departments museum, was put on display for members of the IFBA’s Region 1 meeting attendee’s.
The Region 1 Chapter of the International Fire Buff Association meeting was held May 5, 2018, at the Exeter (NH) Fire Department. Several delegates and their alternates from member clubs attended the annual meeting to speak about their respective clubs. The IFBA will be having their annual convention later this summer in Racine, Wisconsin. Shown here are Connecticut Fire Photographers Association members Ken Beliveau and Steve Hess, riding the back step of Exeter’s antique Engine 2, a 1942 Seagrave pumper. - Fire News photos by Kevin White
In keeping with tradition, this bell, now mounted to Exeter (NH) Ladder 1’s KME ladder truck has served the department since 1941. It was originally mounted on their 1941 Seagrave ladder and subsequently handed down to their 1972 Maxim ladder and their 1994 EOne ladder before finding its way onto the KME to serve for years to come.
Page 40, Fire News, July 2018
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Connecticut Fire Photographers Tour Springfield
The Connecticut Fire Photographers Association toured the Springfield (MA) Fire Department in April, visiting stations and taking photos of the apparatus. - Fire News photos by Joe Marino and Jim Peruta
Brockton Firefighters Pipes and Drums
Brockton Firefighters Pipes and Drums at the Brockton (MA) Memorial Day parade on May 28, 2018. - Fire News photos by Liz Feitelberg
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Fire News, July 2018, Page 41
Michael E. Gingell Promoted to Chief
Michael E. Gingell was promoted to Chief of the Harrisville Fire Department/District on April 1, 2018. Michael is a native of the Town of Burrillville (RI), born and raised in the Village of Harrisville. He joined the Harrisville Hose Company 1 as a Junior Firefighter in August 1974, and was promoted to full membership in May 1977. On September 14, 1987, he began to work full-time at district. Chief Gingell earned several certifications, awards, and commendations throughout his four-decade career. He has held every promotable rank within the department before becoming chief. He is also a member of the State of Rhode Island’s LAST which assist fire departments with fallen members funeral services. - Fire News photos by Ken LaBelle
Page 42, Fire News, July 2018
Chief Lewandowski Retires
Chief Mark Lewandowski of the Kensington (CT) Fire Department retired after serving the department as Chief for 24 years. A retirement party was held at the Farmington Club on May 4, 2018, with 200 people in attendance. - Fire News photo by Joe Marino
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Albion Gets New Roof Ventilation Saw in Memory of Derek R. Partenteau
Crossfit Claddagh Memorial Workout
March 25 2018, Crossfit Claddagh Memorial Workout to raise money for the Last Call Foundation. (Left to right): Firefighters Rick Nicholson, Donnie O’Brien, Kim O’Brien, Scott Davis, Travis Parisi, Skylar Stafford and Captain Justin Brigham did the Dork Wod in memory of Firefighter Michael Kennedy. - Fire News photo by Paul LaRochelle
The Albion Fire District has received a new roof ventilation saw donated by the family of Derek R. Parenteau in his memory. Derek started as a Junior Firefighter with the Albion Fire Department in 2004 and graduated from the Fire Academy in 2006, after which he began working part time shifts at the station. Derek’s dream was to become a fulltime firefighter. After his passing in August 2006, a Thermal Imaging Camera was donated to the station in his memory. Derek’s family is excited to continue to be part of and to support the fire service and its members. The saw that was donated is an NFPA approved Ventmaster Heavy Duty Fire Rescue Chain Saw. - Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
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Fire News, July 2018, Page 43
Simsbury Vols Complete Charity Stair Climb The Simsbury (CT) Volunteer Fire Company team of Captain Todd Kelley and Firefighters Ken Boudreau, Steve Petrella, Brian Tomaska and Victoria Williams competed in the 2018 Fight for Air Climb, a fundraiser for the American Lung Association. The team was the secondplace fundraising team with $7,728. Boudreau was third single fundraiser with $4,757 and Petrella was sixth with $1,858. Firefighter Boudreau completed the 34 flights of stairs (688 stairs) with a time of 8:48 and was second in his age group, while Firefighter Williams was third in her age group, with a time of 12:01. Firefighters were required to compete in NFPA-compliant structural firefighting gear, which meant climbing with the weight of full firefighting gear, including boots, helmets and breathing apparatus. This is Boudreau’s tenth and eleventh consecutive climbs in Hartford.
This year he first climbed with Karin Stewart and Alex Cruz, making a team of a firefighter, paramedic and police officer. Then he put on his firefighter’s gear and climbed with the firefighters. Boudreau has also completed other stair climbs, including the Boston Fight for Air Climb. Held at One Boston Place, it is 41 flights of stairs. This is Kelly’s second Hartford stair climb and he has competed at the Firehouse Expo and the Fire Department Instructor’s Conference. The Hartford stair climb, held in one of Connecticut’s tallest buildings, Hartford 21, raised over $146,000 to fight lung disease. The American Lung Association is the leading organization working on improving lung health and preventing lung disease, according to its website. Founded in 1904 to combat tuberculosis, they are the oldest voluntary health organization. - Submitted by Kitty Vangunten, photo courtesy of the Simsbury VFC
Father and Son Grand Marshals
Fall River (MA) Fire Units participated in the May 28, 2018, Memorial Day Parade. Retired Falls River District Chief David Jennings and his son Fall River Captain David Jennings, Jr., both combat Marine veterans, were named Grand Marshals. - Fire News photo by Ken Leger
Page 44, Fire News, July 2018
Cover Story
East Windsor 2-Alarm House and Brush Fire
A second alarm fire broke out on Abbe Road in East Windsor (CT) on April 24, 2018. The fire department arrived to heavy fire showing. The fire caused an extensive brush fire to ignite at the rear of the property. Mutual aid came from Warehouse Point, Somers, Crystal Lake, Windsor Locks, eVrnon, South Windsor and Enfield. A drop tank was set up and a hydrant line was laid from three-quarters of a mile away. - Fire News photos by Patrick Dooley
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Fire News, July 2018, Page 45
KU SSMAU L ANNOU NCES NEW LEADERSHIP Effective May 29, 2018, I am announcing a change in leadership at Kussmaul Electronics. After a very successful time as President of Kussmaul, it's Thomas Nugent's desire to stay in the company, focused on engineering, new products and business development. Since Tom was instrumental in growing Kussmaul, he actively participated in the search process and will be supporting the ramp up of our new President, Dale Tompkins. Dale Tompkins comes to us with a tremendous track record of success. Dale is experienced in the emergency, warning, and vocational vehicle space, having served as President and CEO of Code 3, a provider of lighting and warning products for emergency responders, utility service fleets, and industrial settings. Prior to Code 3, Dale was part of marine leader Brunswick Corporation, where he served in senior corporate and business leadership roles. Dale is a native of Wisconsin, has a B.S. in Finance from the University of Wisconsin, LaCrosse, and an MBA from the University of Minnesota.
In his role, Dale will be responsible for driving the profitable growth of Kussmaul Electronics including our expansion into new vertical markets such as the vocational truck market. To that end, Dale's dual title includes Market Segment President for Specialty Vehicle Power. Dale will have direct responsibility for all functions within our West Sayville facility. Dale will maintain a strong focus on customer satisfaction. Please join me in welcoming Dale to Kussmaul Electronics. Colin Chambless VP Sales and Marketing.
Page 46, Fire News, July 2018
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