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LANCASTER BATTLES FOUR ALARM BARN FIRE
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ROBERT S ALLEN
Lancaster, MA - At 1:15 on November 10, 2012, Lancaster firefighters were dispatched to 237 Brockelman Road for a structure fire. Companies arrived to a fully involved one and a half story barn at Manny’s Dairy Farm.
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January, 2013
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
January, 2013
1St Responder Newspaper - NE
PAgE 3
CONNECTICUT
KEVIN KCZARZASTY
Four families displaced in Naugatuck Naugatuck Fire Department arrived to find heavy fire showing from the second floor of Building 8 of the Southwood Apartments at 933 Rubber Ave. Seeing the heavy smoke pushing from the eave, it was determined the fire had entered the attic space of the building and with the older construction, crews knew they had to stop it before it consumed the entire structure.
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Mutual aid engines from Oxford and Beacon Falls provided working crews and station coverage, while Waterbury's Truck 3 assisted with roof operations. Several trench cuts were made above the fire so that the building could be vented and the attic fire ex-
tinguished quickly, keeping the damage from affecting all the units in the building. The fire appeared to be held to the unit of origin. The three adjacent apartments suffered water and smoke damage, displacing four families. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the borough's fire marshal. - KEVIN CZARZASTY KEVIN KCZARZASTY
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January, 2013
NEW HAMPSHIRE
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
10, 17
Five Star Fire
On October 15, 2012 Thornton Heights Engine Company #6 Firefighter Joseph J. Nalbach Jr. was recognized at the South Portland City Council Meeting held at JUMP TO FILE # City Hall. 111212104 Joe was presented a ceremonial axe, recognizing him for his 50+ years of service to the South Portland Fire Department. Captain Philip Viola, Chief Kevin Guimond, Joseph J. Nalbach Jr., Chief Phillip McGouldrick (Ret), Firefighter Todd Libby, Lt. Brian Martin, Firefighter Raymond Roberts, Firefighter Timothy Parker and Firefighter Ludger Perreault. - PHILIP VIOLA
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30
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39
New England Fire Equip.
3
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27
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January, 2013
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January, 2013
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In memory of those who gave all 1st Responder Newspaper honors and remembers emergency responders lost in the line of duty California: Rob Van Wormer, 47
Rank: Battalion Chief Incident Date:10/27/2012 Death Date: 10/27/2012 Fire Department: Cal Fire Santa Clara Unit Fire Dept. Info: Chief Steve Woodill Initial Summary: Chief Van Wormer passed away from a cause still to be determined while on a work assignment in a neighboring jurisdiction.
Colorado: Don Felton, 71 Rank: Fire Chief Incident Date: 10/27/2012 Death Date: 10/27/2012 Fire Department: Southern Park County Fire Protection District Fire Dept. Info: (Acting) Major Larry LePage and former district Fire Chief Gene Stanley Initial Summary: Fire Chief Felton died of an apparent heart attack while at work in his fire department office. Connecticut: Russell Neary, 55 Rank: Lieutenant Incident Date: 10/29/2012 Death Date: 10/29/2012 Fire Department: Easton Volunteer Fire Company No. 1 Fire Dept. Info: Chief James Girardi Initial Summary: Lieutenant Neary responded with his fire company to a structure fire alarm. While returning to the station, firefighters were removing part of a tree blown into the roadway by Hurricane Sandy when several other trees suddenly fell striking and killing Neary. Illinois:
Herbert “Herbie” T. Johnson, 54 Rank: Captain Incident Date: 11/02/2012 Death Date: 11/02/2012 Fire Department: Chicago Fire Department Fire Dept. Info: Fire Commissioner José A. Santiago Initial Summary: Captain Johnson died from inhalation injuries sustained while operating at a structure fire. Media reports said that “Johnson died after saving several families--including many with small children--from a burning South Side home.” Investigation of the fatal fire incident continues.
North Carolina:
David Mitchell Tatum, 55 Rank: Lieutenant Incident Date: 11/04/2012 Death Date: 11/05/2012 Fire Department: White Oak Fire Department Fire Dept. Info: Chief Tim Tatum Initial Summary: Lieutenant Tatum became sick at the scene of an emergency response but did not request treatment at that time. Later in the day, he began having trouble breathing and became unconscious. Tatum was treated and transported to Bladen County Hospital and then transferred to Cape Fear Valley Hospital in Fayetteville where he passed away from a cause still to be determined.
Illinois:
Walter Patmon, Jr., 61 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: 11/11/2012 Death Date: 11/11/2012 Fire Department: Chicago Fire Department Fire Dept. Info: Fire Commissioner José A. Santiago Initial Summary: Upon returning to quarters after helping to put out a small kitchen fire in the South Side Beverly neighborhood of Chicago, Firefighter Patmon fell ill while cleaning equipment. Patmon was treated by fellow first responders and transported to the hospital where he passed away from an apparent heart attack.
Indiana:
Mark Haudenschild II, 26 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: 11/11/2012 Death Date: 11/11/2012 Fire Department: Washington Township Volunteer Fire Department Fire Dept. Info: Chief Brian Gillett Initial Summary: Firefighter Haudenschild died from injuries sustained when the fire apparatus he was operating crashed as he was responding to a reported grass fire. Haudenschild was reportedly not wearing seat restraints and passed away at the scene of blunt force trauma due to the motor vehicle crash.
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January, 2013
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January, 2013
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
NEW HAMPSHIRE
BRIAN BLACKDEN
Concord medics work Presidential visit On November 4, 2012, the Concord Fire Department was an integral part of the Presidential visit by Presidents Obama and Clinton along with other select dignitaries representing the Democratic party. Concord firefighter/paramedics kept emergency response lanes open within the crowd and medic teams were seen twice, responding to medical issues involving those who showed to hear one of the last rally speeches before the 2012 election. As New Hampshire is considered a swing state, there was a draw from people wanting to partake in the rally. Local, state, and federal fire and law enforcement resources
DAVE STEWART
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covered the event and the city of Concord Public Works Department blocked intersections with road graders and dump trucks as barricades, along with air support from State Police. American Medical Response was attached to the Presidential caravan as Concord Fire attended to the needs of the crowds, taking up the block around the state legislative office building. - BRIAN BLACKDEN
Chief of the department and two districts chiefs discuss the plans for the exterior attack
Third alarm apartment building fire On Sunday, November 25, 2012 at 2:07 a.m., Manchester Fire Department responded to 5 Barr Street for a reported roof fire. As companies were dispatched, fire alarm notified all companies that the police department were on scene stating the roof was on fire and the officers were removing occupants from the building. First due Engine 6 reported smoke showing on arrival and seconds later the district chief reported heavy smoke showing from a large three and a half story occupied wood frame apartment building and requested the second alarm struck. Firefighters quickly stretched several hand lines to the second, third floors and attic area, finding heavy
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fire conditions in the walls. Truck companies set up and went to work opening the roof area. The fire started to burn through the roof area and quickly started to vent from the D side attic area. The OIC requested an evacuation of all firefighters and requested the third alarm transmitted. Firefighters conducted exterior operations using ladder pipes and several large hand lines. As heavy fire vented from the roof area, there was a collapse of the mid section of the roof, causing a
chimney to fall into the street on the A side. Trucks 1, 3, 5, and 7 surrounded the building and fought using master streams. Two exposure structures in the rear did need to be evacuated due to an ember problem for a few minutes. It took about an hour and a half to bring the fire under control. Once the heavy fire was knocked down, firefighters went back to an interior attack with multiple lines to chase pockets of fire and to overhaul. The fire left 30 people homeless (twenty adults and ten children). American Red Cross is assisting. - DAVID STEWART
Worchester Area Fires, 1990’s, Vol.1 VIDEO REVIEW DERRY FIRE DEPARTMENT
Dirt bike accident The Derry Fire Department responded to a report of a seriously injured dirt bike rider in a remote section of town off Halls Village Rd. at 12:41 p.m. Initial arriving crews hiked in to provide assistance, but the patient was ultimately reached by four wheel drive vehicles. Due to the nature of the victim’s injury and remote location, air medical transport was called to transport the patient. Chester Volunteer Fire Department responded with a Gator off road vehicle to assist. The patient was treated on scene and transferred to a nearby field, where DHART air medical transport transferred the patient to Mass General Hospital in Boston. Derry Police Department and NH Fish and Game responded to the scene. The department returned at 1:58 p.m.
Video reviews by John Malecky
This is an 84 minute DVD that had been converted from VHS. We get a little bit of nostalgia from over 20 years ago. There are eight fires, seven of which occur in Worchester and one in Oxford, Massachusetts. All of the fires are at night or early morning just before dawn. The Oxford fire is in a lumber yard that is pretty much gone when the camera started running. There is heavy fire and smoke from debris burning on the ground with a collapsed building nearby. A platform and ladderpipe operate from above along with handlines. The first Worchester fire is a
little puzzling because it has an unknown date and location. It is of a restaurant, the fire of which appears to be pretty much knocked down with handlines stretched and crews venting with light smoke conditions. Perhaps it was taken from a VHS and patched in to the DVD. Another lumber yard fire required a fifth alarm assignment with heavy fire showing and heavy streams and handlines operating. A four story frame apartment house is the scene of a fourth alarm with fire showing through the cockloft and also on the third floor. An aerialscope and aerial ladder operate with a second scope arriving soon afterward. Just about all of the top half of the outer walls are scorched. The fire eventually goes through the roof. Next, a third alarm involves the top floor of a multi-family dwelling with flames “going good.” It is fought with handlines,
with flames eventually going through the roof. A working fire in a Victorian style multi-family house needed two aerialscopes and an aerial operation to subdue. Flames show behind window openings and they later break out. In another incident a frame dwelling is hit by heavy fire on the top floor. Another aerialscope operation. The last operation involved a second alarm in a three story frame dwelling with heavy fire. Flames are reaching for the sky! An aerialscope operates here as well! To summarize, there is no narration and the camera does not move around much. Very little of the fireground is viewed other than the flames and the immediate surroundings. For viewers who are collectors of these type DVD’s, here’s another one for you!
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
January, 2013
High Blood Pressure? Regular exercise may be just the right medicine FIREFIGHTER FITNESS Lori Ann Hodgkinson
ROB FISH
Quick work averts disaster in Danbury The tones sounded at 8:30 p.m. on November 20th, reporting a structure fire at 55 Wildman Street. The apartment complex built in 1971, consisting of two, three story buildings that housing 30 apartments each, measuring about 200 feet by 60 feet deep. Dispatch reported multipe calls about a fire in the rear of one of the buildings. Car 30 reported a shed placed against one of the buildings was completely involved with the apartment building on fire. The building has a Mansard roof type construction that includes the top floor, with the fire entering the soffit area, as well as the overhang around the rear door. The fire was effectively blocking the rear door, thereby hampering exit from that area. People could be seen looking out the windows trying to figure out what all
PAgE 9
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the excitement was. A civilian was directed to pull the fire alarm to assist in evacuating the building. Command requested a second alarm transmitted. First Due Engine 23 reported to the rear to put a line on the fire, concentrating their efforts on washing down the fire on the main building stemmed the spread of fire further into the soffit. Truck 1 put the tower to the roof and was directed to open the roof adjacent to the fire area to check for extension. The truck captain, along with Engine 21, and assisted by members of Squad 7, Engine 10, and Engine 5 evacuated three floors of residents, many of which were ig-
noring the fire alarm. Also complicating the evacuation, was the hallway lights when out when the fire shorted out an exterior light fixture. Ground crews in the rear performed extensive overhaul operations on the facade and soffit to dig out any remaining fire. The shed was totally consumed. After the overhaul was complete, the Danbury Fire Marshal's office took over the investigation, assisted by a Connecticut State Police Fire Marshal, his Accelerant dog, as well as Danbury Police evidence technicians. The investigation is on going, and there were no service injuries. One civilian was transported by Danbury EMS after suffering a COPD attack. - BERNIE MEEHAN
PATCHES Photos for our “Patches” feature can be uploaded on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or emailed to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
EUGENE WEBER JR.
Manville Fire Department (Rhode Island)
Okay, before we go any further – let’s be absolutely clear about a couple of things. Healthy or otherwise, everyone should have their physician’s approval before beginning any exercise program. If you are on medication of any kind, you should continue to follow the course of prescription your physician has established for you until he/she has instructed you differently. High blood pressure (hypertension) is often called the silent killer, because many of its patients show no symptoms. It can go undiagnosed over years and lead to heart attack, stroke and death. Regular physical exams by your physician can easily detect high blood pressure and are therefore recommended. Although hypertension is a condition itself (primary hypertension) it can also be caused by other health conditions related to the kidneys, the heart, arteries, endocrine system and even pregnancy. In such cases it is referred to as secondary hypertension, because it is caused by another condition. Managing the underlying condition can reduce the high blood pressure, and reduce the risk of additional health problems and premature death. However; most often when we are discussing hypertension, we are referring to primary hypertension which is believed to be associated with such things as genetics, sedentary lifestyle, poor nutrition, tobacco use, stress and obesity. Although there is nothing we can do to control genetics, we are all well aware that there is plenty we can do to combat sedentary lifestyle, poor nutrition, tobacco use, stress and obesity. Let’s start with sedentary lifestyle. (Gee, what a surprise I would start there.) With a physician’s approval, most guidelines suggest individuals perform aerobic exercise at a moderate intensity for thirty or more minutes per day, at least five days per week to lower or prevent high blood pressure. This recommendation has been modified, (in the past exercise of high intensity was believed to be necessary). In most cases, brisk walking will do the trick. Beginning with a program at 40-50-% of maximum heart rate with a gradual increase over time to 60-70% is a general example. Keep in mind that many blood pressure medications alter heart rate (i.e. beta blockers, ACE inhibitors, etc.) so using the heart rate method to determine exercise intensity in those
patients is not recommended. In such cases, the perceived rate of exertion method should be used. Your physician or exercise professional can help you with the perceived rate of exertion scale. In general, during moderate exercise you should be able to comfortably carry on a normal conversation, but not sing. Again, consult your physician or exercise professional. Although aerobic exercise generally is the preferred form of exercise, there is some evidence to demonstrate the benefits of anaerobic activity (resistance training, etc.), because of its ability to reduce obesity. This may not be suitable for all patients and therefore a discussion of such, goes beyond the scope of this article. The benefits of aerobic exercise in the management of blood pressure are multiple. Here are just a few. The activity itself decreases blood pressure over time by increasing stroke volume. With regular aerobic activity, your heart will pump greater volumes of blood with every beat. Decreasing the amount of times the heart has to beat decreases the pressure in your arteries and veins. The exercise also addresses the issue of obesity and stress management. Many experts believe that regular exercise can reduce your systolic blood pressure (that top number that represents the pressure in the blood vessels as the heart contracts) by five to ten points. That reduction is comparable to some medications. How cool is that? (Again – continue all prescribed medications, until otherwise advised by your physician). In addition to regular exercise, proper diet is a factor in managing blood pressure. A good program to investigate is the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) program. This plan makes recommendations such as 55% of total calories consumed daily should come from carbohydrates, 27% from fat and 18% from protein. It suggests individuals limit daily consumption of cholesterol to 150 mg and sodium to1500-2300mgs (1500 better for lowering BP). Additionally, it suggests 4700 mg of potassium, 1250 mg of calcium, 500 mg of magnesium and 30g of fiber. These values are based upon a 2100 calorie per day diet. To see which values are appropriate for you, consult your physician. Many experts claim that the DASH eating plan may reduce systolic blood pressure 8-14 points. Stress reduction and tobacco cessation (after one week) can each lower your level five points and limiting your alcohol consumption to two drinks per day has been credited with a reduction of two to four points. Reminder: High blood pressure is often undiagnosed because individuals are symptom free. - continued at www.1rbn.com
PAGE 10
January, 2013
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
VERMONT
GREG RAMSDELL
Discarded cigarette may mave started fire Swanton, VT - A discarded cigarette may be to blame for a fire that destroyed a house in Swanton. Firefighters responded to the home on Mountain View Drive at about 3:40 a.m. on November 12, 2012. The entire back side of the house was in flames and started to get into the interior. Everyone made it out safely, but firefighters had a hard time battling the blaze, which was fanned by gusting winds. Mutual aid was called in from the St. Albans Town, St. Albans City, Highgate, Sheldon and Phillipsburg QC Fire Departments.Missisquoi Valley Rescue stoodby at the scene. The home is considered a total loss. A state police fire investigator determined the fire was caused by a cigarette thrown outside the home.
FUTURE 1ST RESPONDERS If you have photos you would like to see in our Future 1st Responders feature please upload them on our website www.1RBN.com, or email them to Ashley@1stResponderNews.com.
GREGORY J. LAMOUREUX
Loss of home blamed on pellet stove Georgia, VT. Officials are blaming a structure fire that claimed a Georgia home on a pellet stove that was recently added into the residence. According to Fire Chief Chris Gonyeau, a family member heard crackling from the fire, went to the basement to see what was going on, and saw the fire. Upon fire department arrival, the fire had already vented through the roof of the ranch style home. Firefighters' from Georgia, Milton and St. Albans town responded to extinguish the blaze, which was reported by the homeowner around 11:30 a.m.
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Structural instability appeared to hamper the suppression efforts. The ranch style home on Ballard Rd which had been in the family for over 20 years is considered a total loss according to Chief Gonyeau. Gonyeau added he hoped they'd be able to save some personal items from the home. In addition AmCare and the Vermont State Police also responded. - GREGORY LAMOUREUX
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1st Responder Newspaper - NE
January, 2013
PAgE 11
VERMONT
GREG RAMSDELL
Deputy sheriff notices garage fire Sheldon, VT. On November 11th at approximately 2:00 a.m., a Franklin County deputy sheriff noticed a fully involved garage fire on Route 105 in Sheldon. He was able to rescue two children and three adults just before their house caught fire. The Sheldon Fire Department was dispatched around 2:00 a.m. Mutual aid was called in from Swanton, St. Albans Town and Enosburgh Fire Departments to assist the Sheldon in battling the fire. Enosburgh Ambulance and AmCare Ambulance responded as well. The fire is under investigation.
GREG RAMSDELL
Six patients with two trapped Swanton, VT - On November 1, 2012, Swanton Fire Department; Missisquoi Valley Rescue (MVR) Units 1, 2, 3; St. Albans Town for heavy rescue; three AmCare ambulances and Vermont State Police responded to a two car MVA on Route 105 in Swanton at approximately 3:20 p.m. Crews arrived to 6 patients with two trapped in vehicles. Firefighters from Swanton and St. Albans Town extricated the victims. A pregnant female and one other were transported in serious condition to the hospital. The four other patients were transported in moderate condition to the hospital. The accident remains under investigation by VSP. Route 105 was closed to traffic for approximately one hour.
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PAGE 12
January, 2013
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
STEPHEN PENDL
Structure fire brings full response in Cromwell Cromwell, CT. On October 5, 2012, Cromwell firefighters were alerted at 4:55 a.m. to a reported structure fire across the street from 87 Court Street. From the initial dispatch, the department had a good idea of what they were going to be faced with. Assistant Chief Don Quick arrived, established command and confirmed a working fire with fire through the roof and occupants evacuated, but injured. A box alarm was requested, bringing back all full time personnel along with town coverage provided by a Rocky Hill truck and
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Westfield engine. The homeowner had received minor burns to upper extremities and his two children received smoke inhalation. All three were transported to Middlesex Hospital for treatment and evaluation by Cromwell EMS 4-A. Operations officer, Deputy Chief Bellamo, started with a defensive operation due to the large volume of fire and potential exposure issue. First due Engine 2 arrived and
operated three hand lines. Truck 1 operated its master stream and eventually all crews were able to move interior. Engines 1 and 3 were on scene with manpower and equipment suppor. Rescue 1, along with EMS 4-C, provided rehab and EMS staging. The department brought the fire under control within an hour and units were released at 7 a.m. The structure was deemed uninhabitable and the cause is still under investigation by the fire marshal’s office at this time. -STEPHEN PENDL
STEPHEN PENDL
Extended extrication in Sandy Hook At 10:49 p.m. on November 3, Sandy Hook Fire & Rescue firefighters were dispatched to the area of 62 Jeremiah Road for a car into a pole with wires down. Chief Bill Halstead was advised that wires were on the car and one occupant was still inside of the vehicle. The second passenger, a 13 year old female, was out of the vehicle. Chief Halstead immediately requested a second tone for more manpower due to the extrication and CL&P to the scene, priority 1. Chief Halstead found a GMC Yukon had snapped a utility pole and came to rest against a large tree on its driver's side on the shoulder of the road. Utility wires were draped across the vehicle and a transformer lay smashed in the roadway, blocking access. Firefighters went to work gathering their tools and equipment to prepare for the extrication. KARIN M. HALSTEAD
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The vehicle had sustained heavy front end damage. The motor was riped from its mounts and shoved twelve inches backward into the firewall. The driver's door was sheared off from the impact, and the driver was severely impinged at several points. The actual extrication process did not start until the all clear was received from CL&P. A firefighter/MRT gained access through the rear hatch to provide initial patient care and remained in the vehicle with the patient, holding Cspine stabilization. The front half of the roof was removed to allow for access. The dashboard was also removed to allow access to the patient's lower extremities. The steering column was re-
moved to free the patient's right leg. It was then discovered that his left knee was pinned to the ground by the hood of the vehicle. After the vehicle was lifted to free his knee, it was discovered that his left foot was trapped between the rocker panel, the brake pedal and the A post, which had been forced downward by the impact. The floor was then cut open to access the area. The A post was spread open, the brake pedal removed and the foot was slowly freed. The extrication took 107 minutes, just 13 minutes shy of two hours. Once removed, the patient was handed off to Newtown Ambulance members and taken to Danbury Hospital ALS. Sandy Hook firefighters cleared the scene and returned in service around 2:38 a.m. (1:38 a.m. due to the time change). - KARIN HALSTEAD
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
January, 2013
PAgE 13
CONNECTICUT
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Canton responds to car fire Canton, CT. On November 11th, the Town of Canton Volunteer Fire & EMS Department responded to a car fire at 41 Bridge Street at 10:55 a.m. Canton’s Engine 1 and 3 were on the scene quickly knocking down the fire, which had engulfed the engine compartment of a parked vehicle. There were no passengers in the car at the time of the fire. Engine 4, Squad 5, Tanker 7 responded to the call. Canton’s volunteer fire police rerouted traffic around the scene and managed the many onlookers from Main Street
JUMP TO FILE #112612114
and the Rails to Trails. The car fire burned hot enough to melt siding on the building in front of where it was parked. Volunteer firefighters checked for fire extension using a thermal imaging camera. No further signs of fire were found and the scene cleared at 11:50 a.m. - SYLVIA CANCELA
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PAGE 14
January, 2013
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
ALLEN NIPER
Missing kayaker off Milford coast At approximately 9:40 a.m. on October 28, the Milford Fire and Police Departments along with the US Coast Guard were called to Long Island Sound in the area of Charles Island for two capsized kayaks. One kayaker was located and taken ashore to an American Medical Response ambulance for transport to the hospital. The victim was suffering from hypothermia, due to the time in the water. The search was called off in the late afternoon, due to losing sunlight and an approaching storm. The second victim’s body was recovered November 8 in the Housatonic River.
ROB FISH
Danbury battles late night blaze At 10:10 p.m. on December 10th, the Danbury Dispatch Center began to receive numerous calls reporting a structure fire on Rose Street. Car 30, Deputy Chief Steve Williams, found heavy smoke coming from the area of a large warehouse building with fire in the back. He transmitted the second alarm. The fire was actually in a two story wood frame, former auto shop in the rear of this warehouse on a backlot off of 350 Main Street. Crews immediately went to
JUMP TO FILE #120212102
work, finding heavy fire issuing from a turret-style room on the second floor. Like many empty downtown Danbury buildings, this building was known to house homeless people. Firefighters needed to perform a rapid primary search, finding a number of mattresses, but no victims. An attempt to make the fire room through the building with a
hose line was attempted, but was difficult due to debris in the building. Command ordered everyone out of the building and went to a defensive mode. Engine 23 opened the deck gun on the bulk of the fire, while other firefighters trained hand lines on the fire. Once the fire was sufficiently knocked down, members mopped the fire up. There were no injuries and the Danbury Fire Marshals office is investigating cause and origin. - BERNIE MEEHAN
ALLEN NIPER
Superstorm Sandy hits Milford On October 29, 2012, Superstorm Sandy hit the Milford shoreline and caused major damage. During the storm, the Milford Fire Department responded to over 100 calls for service including five structure fires, massive flooding and numerous trees on buildings. Once the storm subsided, the damage was revealed and more than 50% of Milford was without power. There were hundreds of damaged and destroyed buildings along the shore. The Milford school system closed schools for the rest of the week. Residents were quoted saying that damage was twice as bad as Tropical Storm Irene.
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Westport MVA with fire on Route 15 At 7:30 a.m. on November 14, Westport firefighters responded to a reported multi-vehicle accident with one of the vehicles on fire on the Merritt Parkway, northbound, between Exits 42 and 44. Arriving fire units went to work extinguishing the fully involved car fire and checking the occupants of the vehicles for injuries. The drivers of the vehicles stated that each one of them had hit a coyote that had wandered onto the roadway. There were no injuries to the occupants. CT State Police stopped all northbound traffic for the duration of the incident and are in charge of the investigation. The last Westport Fire unit left the scene at 8:28 a.m.
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
January, 2013
Page 15
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January, 2013
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
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Train versus car in Beacon Falls Beacon Falls, CT. Beacon Hose Company #1 Fire and EMS units were dispatched to a car versus train accident on Railroad Avenue shortly after 3:00 p.m. First arriving units found the driver of the SUV still inside the vehicle. The SUV reportedly drove onto the tracks and was struck by a southbound Metro-North commuter train as it approached Beacon Falls station. The driver of the vehicle was extricated by Beacon Hose personnel and was transported by the department's ambulance to Waterbury Hospitals Trauma Center. Metro North Police and maintenance crews removed the SUV that was stuck under the train and assessed damage to the train and tracks. A crane lifted the SUV away from the train. Naugatuck Fire crews covered Beacon Hose station during the incident.
Rollover on Exit 14 in Shelton Shelton, CT. At approximately 2:30 p.m. on October 25, 2012, Shelton Companies 1 and 3 were dispatched to Route 8 Exit 14 South for a motor vehicle rollover. First units on scene found that one vehicle had rolled from the Exit 14 northbound ramp to the 14 entrance ramp. All occupants were out of the vehicle upon arrival and were transported to Bridgeport Hospital.
MIKE RICE
Barn destroyed in Roxbury
The staff of 1st Responder Newspaper would like to extend to our valued readers and advertisers our warmest wishes for a safe & happy holiday season.
On November 23rd at 11:35 p.m., Northwest Public Safety notified Roxbury Fire and EMS of a barn fire at 33 River Road. They activated the mutual aid plan for a structure fire. Bridgewater with an engine and tanker, Washington Ladder 1, Woodbury tanker, Southbury engine and tanker and New Milford for RIT were dispatched. FD 1, Chief Joe Quaranta, found a small barn used to house goats fully involved. He found that a 275 gallon tank with gasoline was also on fire and was venting. Roxbury Engine 12 pulled a two and a half inch attack line and went to work. Concentrating efforts on exposure protection, they
JUMP TO FILE #112412101
washed down the gasoline tank, cooling it before it could become a larger problem. Roxbury Tanker 11 began feeding Engine 12. Bridgewater assisted at the scene. The structure collapsed within minutes and Chief Quaranta released much of the mutual aid before it arrived. The farmer reported that he was able to release the goats from the structure before the fire took complete hold. The Roxbury fire marshal is investigating cause and origin. - BERNIE MEEHAN
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
January, 2013
PAgE 17
CONNECTICUT
Fire damages Hartford apartment building
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PAGE 18
January, 2013
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
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Roof fire in Westport caused by embers On November 25th at approximately 9:30 a.m., a call was received for a possible structure on Washington Ave. The caller reported fire visible of the roof. Four engines, a rescue vehicle and shift commanders vehicle were dispatched as well as a ladder truck from Wilton. An engine from the Fairfield covered headquarters. Fire was visible on the roof of the two story home. The occupants safely exited the structure after being notified of the fire by a neighbor. They reported smelling smoke and checking the interior of
JUMP TO FILE #112512103
the house, but smoke detectors did not activate as the fire and smoke were confined to the roof and unfinished attic areas of the home, where there were no detectors. Firefighters stretched a hose line up the interior stairs to the attic and quickly extinguished the fire. Tarps were placed on items on the second floor to protect them from water runoff and additional burning roof materials were removed to complete extinguish-
ment. The fire was investigated by the Westport fire marshals office and found to be caused by hot embers from the chimney landing on the wood roof shingles, setting them on fire. The majority of fire damage was to the roof shingles with minor water and smoke damage to the second floor. A total of 24 firefighters responded to the scene. The last fire department unit cleared the scene at 11:15 a.m.
1st Responder Newspaper features emergency services-related tattoos every month. This feature appears in all of our editions: New York, New Jersey, New England, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Southeast, MidAtlantic, and Texas.
- BERNIE MEEHAN
New engine pumps its first fire in Somers Somers, CT. At approximately 8:45 a.m. on November 28th, a mutual aid request was made for an apparatus from the Shaker Pines Fire Department to respond for a report of a working structure JUMP TO FILE # fire on Haas Road. 112912113 Chief Macsata decided that the 1000 gallon capacity of Engine 52 was the engine to go. Engine 52 was ordered to continue to Camp Road and pump the dry hydrant from the lake at Camp AyaPO to refill tankers from Somers, Ellington, Tolland and other towns. It took units working a while to get the fire knocked down, as the construction of the house made it difficult, originally built as a ranch by design, but over the years the owner made it bigger and better with add on after add on. Once the fire was knocked and extinguished, a lengthy overhaul commenced. Engine 52 broke down its water supply operation and went to the scene. The crew assisted Somers in breaking down and repacking hose. Engine 52 performed extremely well and the pump never faltered. - KEN MALTESE
My name is Efi Mercado with the Camden City New Jersey Fire Department. I am a 16 year veteran firefighter, who has been in Squad Co. 7 my whole career. I decided to get this tattoo to show pride in my department and my career. I was Local 788 Union secretary for 11 years and I am now the vice president.
If you have an Emergency Services-related tattoo and are interested in having your tattoo featured in 1st Responder, please contact us at news@1stResponderNews.com. KEN MALTESE
January, 2013
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
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Firefighters battle garage fire Highgate, VT. On November 5, 2012, the Highgate Fire Department was called out around 1:00 p.m. to Parizo Road in the Town of Highgate for a garage fire. Upon arrival of 14E1, the garage was fully involved. Mutual aid from the Swanton Fire Department and Missisquoi Valley Rescue (MVR) responded to the scene. One patient was treated and released at the scene by MVR. Firefighters knocked the fire down quickly. Firefighters overhauled the garage and were on the scene for about three hrs. The fire is being investigated by the Vermont State Police (VSP) fire investigators.
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January, 2013
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
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Second alarm in Central Falls On December 4, 2012 at approximately 7:30 a.m., crews arrived at 184 Cottage Street for a house fire. Command arrived to find smoke showing from the attic area of the dwelling. Mutual aid was requested from Pawtucket and Lincoln to respond to the fire. The fire was quickly knocked down.
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PAGE 22
January, 2013
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
Harwich awards ceremony
JAKE O'CALLAGHAN
Firefighter/EMT Jason Boyne, Chief Norman Clarke, Jr., Firefighter/EMT Bruce Young, Lieutenant/ EMT-P Timothy Jaques, Firefighter/EMT-P Eric Diamond, Firefighter/EMT-P Eric Elliott, Captain Fire Inspector/EMT-P Bucky Mabile, Firefighter/EMT Ryan Edwards, Captain/EMT John Clarke, Deputy Chief/EMT Kent Farrenkopf and Captain/EMT Joseph Mayo. Not pictured Captain/EMT David LeBlanc, Firefighter/EMT-P Scott Tyldesley and Firefighter/EMT-P Brad Willis.
JAKE O'CALLAGHAN
Harwich, MA. A recent awards ceremony was held at Harwich fire headquarters for members of the fire service, who went above and beyond the call of duty. New hire Firefighter Eric Elliott comes to Harwich after three years of full time service in Wellfleet. After eighteen years of service, Firefighter Bucky Mabile was promoted to captain fire inspector. Firefighters Eric Diamond and Jason Boyne were rewarded for their work with the Massachusetts Task Force 1 in New York for Hurricane Sandy. Captain David LeBlanc was recognized for organizing the collection and transport of needed supplies to New York for Hurricane Sandy. Lieutenant Timothy Jaques, Firefighters Brad Willis, Scott Tyldesley, Bruce Young and Ryan Edwards were recognized for life
JUMP TO FILE #112612100
saving procedures performed on June 8, 2012 to a patient in East Harwich in cardiac arrest. This patient was defibrillated eight times and received CPR for a period of forty five minutes. This resuscitation effort was the longest on record for Cape Cod Hospital with complete recovery. Captain John Clarke, while off duty, saved the life of a woman who was choking. Using the Heimlich maneuver, he was able to dislodge the obstruction. Captain Joseph Mayo was recognized for his strong commitment and dedication at the Barnstable County Fire and Rescue Training Academy. - JAKE O'CALLAGHAN
PAT TRAVERS
Hanson Call-Firefighter Mike Means sits on a "Chicago loop", knocking down the fire.
Support for New York
Suspicious fire in Hanson destroys vacant
Harwich, MA. Supplies headed to New York were loaded at fire department headquarters for victims of Hurricane Sandy. The firefighting group left from HFD at 6 a.m. on Sunday, November 11th with two truck loads of goods heading to Breezy Point, Queens, NY as well as the Rockaways area, where more than 300 firefighter families live. During the September 11 terrorist attacks, the neighborhood lost 59 firefighters. Traveling to New York were Captain LeBlanc, Lieutenant Craig Thornton, Lieutenant Mike Mason, Firefighter Scott Tyldesley, Dennis Firefighter Dan O'Connell and Madison LeBlanc, 16 year old daughter of David. When she was in junior high
Hanson, MA. Just before 5:30 a.m. on the cold morning of November 27th, the Hanson Fire Department responded to the area of 1000 Main Street, for a possible structure fire. Hanson Fire Chief Jerome Thompson reported a working fire in a vacant structure, requesting a working fire assignment and an additional engine to the scene. This brought Whitman and Pembroke engines to the scene. The vacant 20 x 100 foot commercial building at 999 Main Street was fully involved when crews arrived. Hanson Engine 3 dumped their monitor while a supply line was obtained. Whitman Engine 2 grabbed a hydrant and used their deck gun and a Blitz gun off a three inch hand line at
JUMP TO FILE #111212105
school, she did a 911 project and interviewed a New York firefighter Ray Fiffer a friend of her father. He will meet the group when they arrive in New York. Ray lost eleven fellow firefighters at his firehouse, Upper East Side Engine 40 Ladder 35, on the day of the attacks. Many people brought lots of clothes and supplies to the Harwich Fire Department and as Fire Chief Norman Clarke said "if Sandy had veered 150 miles to the northeast, we'd be the ones looking for help." - JAKE O'CALLAGHAN
JUMP TO FILE #112912105
the rear of the building. Pembroke's engine laid a supply line for Hanson Tower 1, which utilized its master stream. The state fire marshal's office was requested in the early stages of the blaze. A string of suspicious fires has plagued the South Shore area of Massachusetts, with suspicious fires occurring in two neighboring towns in the early morning hours just one day before. Another suspicious fire that went to three alarms occurred in Quincy, just a few hours prior to this blaze. The Hanson Fire Department was assisted on the scene by the state fire marshal, the Massachu-
setts State Police and the ATF. K9’s could be seen sniffing through the debris throughout the morning as snow flurries covered the scene. The exact cause of the fire is under investigation, but it is considered to be suspicious. No injuries were reported at the scene. The State Fire Marshal Stephen Coan asks that anyone with information regarding any of the recent fires throughout the Southeastern part of Massachusetts or who may have seen something suspicious to call the arson hotline at 800-682-9229. All information can be confidential and those who report information could be eligible for a $5,000 reward. - PAT TRAVERS
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
January, 2013
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Page 23
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January, 2013
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
Departments in neeD of assistance For more information, visit our website www.1stResponderNews.com, our Facebook page or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
We are still in need of cold weather gear, (hats, gloves, socks, boots,) for the members. We also need paging systems for the departments. We have supplied these departments with temporary communications, however, they have no way to contact their members in the event of a call. Roof alarms, pagers, etc. We received donations from multiple volunteer ambulance services and volunteer fire departments throughout the state, PA and as far as Indiana. Contact information is district4chair@gmail.com or info@emrnyc.com. The mailing address is POB 863991, Ridgewood, NY 11386.
For those interested in volunteering to help with Hurricane Sandy assistance, please contact the New Jersey volunteer emergency response hotline at 1-800JERSEY-7 or backup hotline numbers (which are being answered): 609-775-5236 or 908303-0471.
Gerritsen Beach Volunteer Fire Department at 53 Seba Ave, Brooklyn NY is in desperate need of assistance. Their fire department was totaled in the flood from Sandy. Their one and only engine is out of service due to salt water damage to the electrical system. Their TOG was soaked in salt water and sewage backup. Any help would be awesome. They are the only volunteer department in Brooklyn. Contact information is Gerrittsen Beach Fire Dept. Lt Mike Castro 718-552-6959 or Chief Doreen Garson 718-332-9292 53 Seba Ave Brooklyn NY.
We were advised that Broad Channel Volunteer Fire Department lost a fire truck when it caught fire. West Hamilton Beach Fire Department lost two trucks, two ambulances, a brush truck and a chief truck. A department in PA kindly donated a truck to them.
The Glen Oaks Volunteer Ambulance Corps was having a supply drive to help the victims of Hurricane Sandy. Donations were being accepted at their headquarters on Union Turnpike in Floral Park, NY. Please call them at 718347-1647 for more information.
The Berlin Volunteer Fire Department located at 700 North Street, Berlin, PA (Somerset County, Pennsylvania) is donating one of their equipped fire engines to the storm ravaged West Hamilton Beach Volunteer Fire Department in Queens, NY. The receiving volunteer fire department lost everything during
Hurricane Sandy. The Fire Chief, Fire Department President along with a fire truck driver from the Berlin Volunteer Fire Department will be driving the fire truck from Berlin to New York on November 16th. Berlin Area Ambulance Association, Inc. is donating various emergency medical equipment such as stretchers, splints and back boards. An 18 wheeler brought relief supplies to the Bergen County Law & Public Safety Institute in Mahwah. Supplies, including palettes of water, non-perishable foods as well as other items, were trucked from the Harvest Hope Food Bank in Columbia, SC. The coordinated effort was made possible by Rich and Nadine Demczyszyn as well as several other first responders. Their coordinated efforts can be viewed on their Facebook page, Immediate supplies for NJ EMS and Fire Depts affected by Hurricane Sandy. If you have a story to share with us, please email us at news@1strespondernews.com. There are an incredible amount of stories to be told. Do you know a fire, rescue or EMS department in need of help? Please send along any information
Unfortunately, many members of the local emergency services community have been personally affected by Hurricane Sandy and her aftermath. The sense of loss is enormous, overwhelming and painful. During this crisis, the 1st Responder News family would like for all of you to know that you and your families are all in our thoughts and prayers. We would also like to thank all of you in the emergency services community who, once again, have worked so diligently in helping others during this time of overwhelming need. Your tireless effort and selflessness continue to inspire all of us. 1st Responder Newsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; staff will continue to think about all of you during this difficult time.
you have to heather@1strespondernews.com. We want to get the word out!!! While responding to a call on November 24, one of Point Breeze Fire Departmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 4x4 engines had an electrical fire in the crew cab. The apparatus is in desperate need of replacement as it operated in six feet of sewage/saltwater during Sandy. Please help if you can. They are Breezy's first line of defense. They are a 100% volunteer non-profit tax deductible organization. You can donate by mailing a check directly to Point Breeze Volunteer Fire Department, 1 Fireman's Plaza, Breezy Point, NY 11697. Thank you. As the holidays approach and we move from the rescue and recovery operation, to the rebuilding phase; I would like to thank everyone for their help and support, and wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season. As you know, the next phase can be a long and tedious one, and can take a toll on our rescue workers. The NYSVARA and the NYSVARA, District 4 are dedicated to these agencies, our members and will continue to offer support and assistance. During this rebuilding phase, we are still in need of basic medical supplies, including pediatric items. District 4 has also joined with NYS Assemblyman Michael
Millers Office and Kiwanis to collect unwrapped toys for the children affected by the hurricane. This effort will help not only rebuild the agencies affected, but will also help in rebuilding the communities and the relationships between these agencies and their communities. Volunteer Fire and Ambulance Services from around the state and country collected equipment, collected donations, and offered support. These companies coordinated local and county wide collections, packed trucks and delivered items to the District 4 receving facility. Special thanks to the volunteers who helped on a daily basis receving donations, packaging, loading and delivering donations, and continue to offer support. Please help with the toy drive. Part of the rebuilding process of our agencies is rebuilding of the communities. We cannot forget the children in all of this. The toys will be handed out by Santa Claus on Saturday, December 24, 2012. Donations can be sent to POB 863991 Ridgewood, NY 11386 Toys and supplies can be delivered M-F (9-5) or mailed to the same Assemblyman Michael Millers Office C/O District 4, NYSVARA 83-91 Woodhaven Boulevard Woodhaven, NY 11421
Moonachie seeks help During the night of hurricane Sandy, the members of the Moonachie Fire Department were out operating at numerous emergencies across the town when the unthinkable happened and would change the history of the Moonachie Fire Department and the borough of Moonachie. While members were returning from a run around 2300 hours, they noticed water rapidly rising on East Joseph Street heading into the town and right to fire headquarters. Within minutes, water was rushing into the firehouse, giving the members very little time to remove apparatus and personal items. The water rose so high and so rapidly most of the towns including fire headquarters were under between 3 and 6 feet of water in under an hour. Members and apparatus found higher ground in another town, so they could assist in rescue operations with other Moonachie agencies and numerous mutual aide companies. Members operated overnight and into the next day even knowing most of their homes where severely flooded. When the water receded, companies returned to fire headquarters to find total devastation.
Water levels in the firehouse were near six feet, causing severe damage to radios, computers, turnout gear, personal items and several pieces of apparatus including our 1953 Ahrens Fox pumper. The apparatus could not be removed in time due to the rapidly rising water. Due to the extent of the damage, MFD has a temporary firehouse which we are making due with, but we need to rebuild our Moonachie Road firehouse. If you would like to help in the rebuilding of Moonachie Fire Department, PLEASE make a donation to assist us. There are many items that insurance won't cover 100%. Please send any monetary donations to Moonachie Fire Department 70 Moonachie Road Moonachie, NJ 07074. Or via Pay Pal at https://www.paypal.com/cgibin/webscr?cmd=_sxclick&hosted_button_id=Q3XU T2YZ5LSFY. All donations will go to the house, apparatus and equipment fund. Thank you all for your thoughts and help over the last few days. Thank You From the Members of the Moonachie fire department.
January, 2013
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
VENDOR SPOTLIGHT
Page 25
New England
Minuteman Fire and Rescue Apparatus, Inc. Announces the Addition of Road Rescue as New Ambulance Line Walpole, MA, December 10, 2012. Minuteman Fire and Rescue Apparatus, Inc. is pleased to announce the addition of Road Rescue to their sales line. After months of researching and planning, the decision was made to provide the highest quality ambulance to customers. These emergency vehicles are the safest and most innovative in the industry.
tients and occupants alike. Road Rescue has been making whisper quiet, all aluminum interiors since 1976. This has been one of the many unique strengths of their product line. The 100% wood free interior protects against blood borne pathogens as well as eliminating outside noises, enabling you to care for the patient without distractions.
Bill O’Connor, Sales Manager for Minuteman Fire and Rescue Apparatus, Inc.
Each vehicle in Road Rescue’s line contains features designed to provide a safe and secure environment for pa-
“I am very pleased that we are able to offer our customers with a full Ambulance sale and service solution,” said
Road Rescue’s line has a wide variety of styles to choose from, and the ability to customize the interior and exte-
Fire-Dex Donates $100,000 worth of gloves
“We continually strive for the highest safety and quality products for our customers. Furthermore we feel that by offering Road Rescue Ambulances to our product line we can excel at meeting our customer’s expectations.”
rior. Jeff Fournier, President of Minuteman Fire and Rescue Apparatus, Inc. commented, “We know this will be the best and most versatile product for our customers. Road Rescue will continue Minuteman’s focus on quality products.” For more information please visit: www.minutemantrucks.com/roadrescue About Minuteman Fire and Rescue Apparatus, Inc.
KME and First Priority give back to Jersey Shore Fire Departments
Medina, OH, December 3, 2012: In an effort to support the continued hard work of firefighters and first responders in New York and New Jersey, the areas hardest hit by Hurricane Sandy, Fire-Dex is donating 1000 pairs of its new G1 firefighting glove; a retail value worth over $100,000.
store the affected communities. Together with our dealer partners at Firefighter One in New Jersey, GA Chivvis in Long Island and others in the area, we intend to get these much needed gloves out to those departments that can use them in their efforts".
Under the banner of "Carbon County Helps Sea Bright & Local Area", KME First Apparatus and First Priority Emergency Vehicles mounted a major relief effort for Jersey Shore area fire departments and the residents of Sea Bright devasted by Hurricane Sandy.
"Fire-Dex's goal is to protect those who risk personal peril in service of others. We can think of no better way to live into that mission than to support the first responders and fire fighters helping those devasted by effects of Hurricane Sandy," said Brett Jaffe, President and CEO of Fire-Dex. "We are saddened by the losses suffered by many and sincerely appreciate the efforts of all the firefighters working diligently and doing their best to re-
The Fire-Dex G1 glove is a specialty glove designed specifically for firefighters and meets the strict standards set forth by the National Fire Protection Association. These gloves are manufactured to protect against extreme heat and include a moisture barrier which protects the hands from the harmful effects of fuel, acids, and other pathogens and potentially harmful contaminants.
The effort was the brain child of KME Sales Engineer Kevin Steber who had recently worked with FPEV Sales Rep Jimmy Phillips on the engineering of Sea Bright's new KME pumper. As is usual with KME's individualized sales process, Kevin became friends with Sea Bright's Fire Chief Chad Murphy and was moved by the scenes of destruction in Sea Bright and the surrounding communities.
2013 Long Island Fire, Rescue & EMS Mega Show The 2013 Long island Fire Rescue & EMS Mega Show is coming to the Expo Center at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum on Hempstead Turnpike in Uniondale on Saturday, February 23 and Sunday, February 24. This is the tri-state's fastest growing show! The latest and most innovative turnout gear and newest product lines for the fire and rescue industry will be on display for you to see. Hundreds of vendors will be present to explain and demonstrate their products and services. Also, there is a two-day extrication competition. Competing at this year's competition on Saturday are Hagerman, North Babylon, Montauk, Ridge, Nesconset
and Great Neck Alert. On Sunday are Sayville, West Babylon, North Bellmore, Blue Point and Selden. Show hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are on sale at the door on the day of the show, $13.50 for general admission or have your department call for a pre-registration form. Children under 12 are free. Don't miss the 2013 Fire, Rescue and EMS Mega Show February 23 and 24 at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Colisum in Uniondale!
Minuteman Fire and Rescue Apparatus, Inc. is based in Walpole, Massachusetts and is a subsidiary of Minuteman Trucks, Inc. The Company is the authorized Pierce® Fire Apparatus Dealer for the New England States of MA, RI, VT, NH and ME and the authorized Road Rescue® Dealer for all of New England.
"I am humbled to say that all started with me and my fiancee' planning to take my Jeep full of "stuff" down to see Chad and the guys from SBFD. I simply placed that on my personal Facebook page and then, at the request of a friend, started a Facebook event "just to see if someone would help me out. Well... to make a long story short, we were stunned with an overwhelming response from TV media. When KME learned of Kevin's ef-
forts, they were moved to pitch in. John Kovatch IV, Director of Customer Service at KME noted, "At KME, it's not just about fire apparatus, its about relationships and this day was our way of giving back to the heroic firefighters at the Jersey Shore. When our employees found about our plan, they jumped in to participate. We did a courtesy pm on the hardest hit units and developed punch lists of other items needing attention in the future when time allows". Jimmy Phillips, First Priority KME sales rep in the Monmouth/Ocean county area, arranged with Fred Migliaccio, Director of Long Branch DPW, to use their facility as a staging area. West Long Branch Chief Ron Guidetti helped schedule vehicles in for service to reduce out of service time, and helped shuttle units back and forth from their stations. "This was an incredible effort on all parts, with more than 25 units fully serviced in less than eight hours. During a recent visit from New Orleans fire fighters to our area, we learned from their experience in Hurricane Katrina the types of long term problems to expect with appa-
ratus exposed to sea water, and with KME's help, we tried to help our customers get ahead of the curve with these long term issues". On November 10th, PA State Police escorted a caravan of KME service units and Carbon County vehicles with nearly two full tractor trailer loads of donated goods for the citizens of Sea Bright. Off loading was a half day event by an army of Kevin Steber supporters, as well as local National Guard, OEM personnel, fire fighters and first responders. Carbon County's efforts were welcomed personally by rock and roll legend Jon Bon Jovi, a local resident who has been active in relief efforts. Chief Murphy commented "We can't thank Kevin, KME and First Priority enough. From the first moments of the storm, they have been here for the department and our citizens. Pretty much everything in our town was wiped out, and it is nice to know these people don't just want our business, they are friends for life". First Priority President Bob Freeman noted "It really is an honor to pitch in a help our friends in times of disaster. Frankly, unless you have been here personally, you can't get the true sense of the magnitude of destruction or the sense of loss these communities are going through. It will be a long road back, but First Priority intends to be there for our customers for the long haul". To view more about KME's efforts in Sea Bright and how you can contribute to the continuing relief efforts, check them out on You Tube at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o w4a7DX5-9Q.
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January, 2013
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
PAT TRAVERS
PAT TRAVERS
A firefighter pulls siding off the front of the house to expose hidden fire.
Space heater blamed for Halifax house fire Halifax, MA. At 4:49 p.m. on December 3rd, a person passing by called 911 to report a house fire at 49 Elm Street in Halifax. The Halifax Fire Department responded and found a fire in a one and a half story wood framed dwelling. A working fire was requested, bringing mutual aid to the scene and to Halifax Fire Department headquarters for coverage. Companies made an interior attack and were making headway on the fire, which was found to be in a front bedroom of the house. Crews backed out on the orders of Halifax Fire Chief William C. Carrico II after an explosion was heard coming from the house. A defensive attack was staged with several hand lines. The Hanson engine company covering was moved up and another engine was brought in for coverage. Companies opened up the roof and once the heavy fire was knocked down again, the companies returned to overhaul and knock down hidden pockets of fire. The state fire marshal's office was requested to the scene to investigate. The area has been plagued with a string of suspicious fires in recent weeks. The fire was determined to be started by a space heater that was too close to combustible materials. No injuries were reported. Two residents of the house were not home at the time of the fire.
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The American Red Cross was requested to assist the displaced residents. The house was a total loss. - PAT TRAVERS
State fire marshal investigating early morning blazes in Halifax and Plympton Halifax, MA. At approximately 3:07 a.m. on November 26th, the Halifax Fire Department responded to a report of a house fire at 266 Monponsett Street (Route 58). First arriving companies found smoke and flames showing from the second floor of a 20 x 30, one and a half story wood framed vacant dwelling. A working fire was requested, bringing a Hanson engine to the scene as RIT and a Bridgewater engine to Halifax headquarters for coverage. Once the heavy fire was knocked down on the exterior, crews put Ladder 1 to the roof and vented. An interior attack was initiated to knockdown any pockets of fire on the interior.
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Crews stretched several hand lines into and around the structure to knock the fire down. Around an hour into the incident, an ALS ambulance was requested for a firefighter, who was down at the scene. The ambulance transported the firefighter to the Jordan Hospital in Plymouth. Shortly after that ambulance left the scene, another ambulance was requested for another firefighter, who was injured while operating on the second floor. A Pembroke transported that firefighter to the Brockton Hospital. The two firefighters were re-
portedly released from their respective hospitals later that day. The state fire marshal's office was requested to the scene. They determined, along with the Massachusetts State Police and Halifax fire officials that the fire was suspicious in nature. Later that morning, at approximately 5:30 a.m., just two and a half miles away in the neighboring town of Plympton, another suspicious fire took place in a vacant garage at 103 Main Street. The Massachusetts State Police and the State Fire Marshal's office is asking for the publics assistance for additional information. - PAT TRAVERS
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
January, 2013
PAgE 27
Winter operations and personnel safety Part II Rehab in cold wintry conditions is a must, so have a plan for rehab that includes a place where members can get out of the cold. Initial rehab can be done in large rescue vehicles, ambulances or apparatus cabs. STAYING Your deSAFE partment or county may Chief Henry Camphave prior bell arrangements in place for a school bus, local bus company or municipal department of transportation to provide a heated bus in a timely manner for use at emergency scenes of long duration. Rotate on scene personnel every hour or so, or sooner if need be, into the warm rehab environment. Provide medical monitoring and warm liquids. Be sure to include all personnel, including those members that insist they are just fine. Hypothermia and frostbite can set in and may not be noticeable. When working in the interior of a structure fire, the heat being generated may be a brief plus for personnel, but upon exiting, they will once again become vulnerable to the extreme weather conditions. All personnel should be aware of the potential of outer protective clothing to ice over when wet, making it more difficult to maneuver and perform physical activity. Below freezing temperatures are all that is needed to turn water into ice and in our operations, we generally have plenty of water. It need not be snowing, sleeting or any of the other winter extremes, just plain cold, below 32 degrees and a leaking hose coupling or water running in the street from the operations of a hoseline or pumper and we have created slippery conditions. You may have stretched that initial attack hoseline into the structure, but when you exit, the fire attack operations may have created ice where there was none when you entered, be cautious. Carry kitty litter, sand and or rock salt aboard all apparatus during the winter to use to maintain footing at the scene of the emergency, around the pump operator’s panel, or to gain traction for the apparatus. A five-gallon plastic pail assigned to each unit will usually suffice until the highway department can come to assist with salt and sand. If you have room for the storage of two five-gallon containers and think there is a need, go for it. Responding to emergency calls during winter can be very treacherous and slow, requiring well maintained apparatus and qualified drivers familiar with
winter driving conditions that include driving on ice and snow. Drivers must be alert to hazardous road, weather and traffic conditions which will create delays in responding. Impaired visibility from falling snow, sleet, hail, freezing rain, or fog conditions may be experienced. Streets blocked by snow, stalled and abandoned vehicles, fuel and delivery trucks, will add to the delay in response; enabling the incident to escalate and further endanger the safety of occupants and emergency responders. Many apparatus now use permanently installed traction chain systems and sanders to increase traction and complete a safe response. The use of full tire snow chains may be required in deteriorating conditions in some regions in order to effect and complete a response. When do you put the chains on the apparatus can be a difficult question for some, but should be based on the weather forecast, present conditions, expected conditions, past experience, and time of day. If you think you should put the full set of chains on your apparatus, go ahead and do it, they can be easily removed if not needed. More importantly, you will rest easy knowing you have done all you possibly could do to effect a safe and complete response. Driving in adverse weather conditions requires planning, patience and reduced speeds. Further, if your apparatus gets stuck in a snow drift, it will require additional equipment to pull you free and you will be of no value to the emergency scene to which you were responding. Part III next month. Till next time, Buckle Up, Stay Safe and God Bless!
NATE ARNOLD
View of the blast zone looking West from the intersection of Spring Street and Worthington. The building at 453 Worthington Street was located to the left of where Engine 10 is in this photo.
Natural gas explosion in Springfield Lieutenant Governor Tim Murray called it the “Miracle on Worthington St.” in reference to there being no deaths as a result of this explosion and from what this correspondent saw the evening of November 23 and during the daylight hours of November 24, that quote from the Lt. Governor was quite possibly, an understatement. The initial call for the incident came in at 4:20 p.m. on Friday, November 23, 2012 when the local gas utility, Columbia Gas responded for a reported gas leaked at 453 Worthington Street. Within a half hour, Columbia Gas linemen determined the levels of natural gas in the building warranted a called to the Springfield Fire Department, which sent Engine 1 and Ladder 1 to the scene from their firehouse a half block away. By 5:15 p.m., SFD firefighters
JUMP TO FILE #112512100
had ordered the evacuation of Scores Gentlemen’s Club at 453 Worthington St. due to the high levels of natural gas. Shortly after the evacuation had been completed, the natural gas inside the structure found an ignition source and the resulting explosion was reportedly heard and felt as far away as Belchertown, in neighboring Hampshire County. Immediately after the blast, Worthington Street command elevated the dispatch to a second alarm to help with evacuating the neighborhood and to tend to the injured on scene. When the dust had settled from the blast, 11 Springfield firefighters were injured to the extent that
they needed hospitalization. By the following afternoon however, all but three of those firefighters were discharged from the hospital. Also injured in the blast were two Springfield police officers, four gas company workers, two civilian bystanders as well as a local photojournalist. The force of the explosion leveled the building at 453 Worthington Street and caused moderate to extensive damage to at least 41 other buildings in a four block radius. The damage ranged from as minor as broken glass to as major as blown out load bearing walls and in one case, overhead bay doors at an auto repair shop across the street from the blast site. Of the 41 damaged buildings, at least three will have to be demolished. - NATE ARNOLD
Professional Vehicle Corporation Serving New England 1-800-894-7788
Happy Holidays!!!
View our website at www.provc.net for emergency vehicle parts & accessories.
Congratulations First Branch Ambulance, Chelsea, Vermont
PAGE 28
January, 2013
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
SMOKESHOWINGPHOTOGRAPHY.COM
Three alarms strikes home in Lunenburg PAT BELLIVEAU
JIM FORTIN
Two alarm blaze destroys Marlborough home At 4:54 a.m., a member of the Marlborough Fire Department, who was on a fire watch detail, requested a first alarm when he noticed heavy smoke showing from a nearby house on Lacouture Court. Firefighters responded with three engines, a tower and a rescue under the command of Car 1. First arriving companies were met with heavy smoke and fire showing from a two and a half story wood frame dwelling. Since the street is very narrow, only Tower 1 could actually be parked on Lacouture Ct. Companies prepared for an interior attack, but were quickly backed out with the worsening conditions. A second alarm was struck bringing Engine 4, Ladder 2, Hudson and Northborough to the scene
JUMP TO FILE #110912124
as well as station coverage from Southborough and Sudbury. Northborough Engine 2 hand laid over 300 feet of LDH establishing a second water supply. After a defensive attack with multiple hand lines, the bulk of the fire was knocked down. Crews then made entry and knocked down the remaining fire. After an extensive overhaul companies began to make up and clear the scene. The cause is under investigation by the Marlborough Fire Department and the State Fire Marshal’s office. - JIM FORTIN
Lunenburg, MA - Shortly after midnight and after just picking up from a chimney fire, fire struck in this two story house. Companies were dispatched for heavy smoke and fire on the first floor of the home. On arrival, the working fire was quickly sounded and mutual aid was called to assist. Firefighters found smoke throughout the entire home and Chief Pat Sullivan struck the second and third alarms for manpower. Leominster responded to the scene with an engine and ladder, Fitchburg with an engine and Shirley and Townsend with engines. Firefighters made an aggressive attack on the second floor and were able to bring this fire under control within 45 minutes. One firefighter suffered a minor injury and was transported to the hospital. The fire is under investigation.
PAGE 28
January, 2013
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
SMOKESHOWINGPHOTOGRAPHY.COM
Three alarms strikes home in Lunenburg PAT BELLIVEAU
JIM FORTIN
Two alarm blaze destroys Marlborough home At 4:54 a.m., a member of the Marlborough Fire Department, who was on a fire watch detail, requested a first alarm when he noticed heavy smoke showing from a nearby house on Lacouture Court. Firefighters responded with three engines, a tower and a rescue under the command of Car 1. First arriving companies were met with heavy smoke and fire showing from a two and a half story wood frame dwelling. Since the street is very narrow, only Tower 1 could actually be parked on Lacouture Ct. Companies prepared for an interior attack, but were quickly backed out with the worsening conditions. A second alarm was struck bringing Engine 4, Ladder 2, Hudson and Northborough to the scene
JUMP TO FILE #110912124
as well as station coverage from Southborough and Sudbury. Northborough Engine 2 hand laid over 300 feet of LDH establishing a second water supply. After a defensive attack with multiple hand lines, the bulk of the fire was knocked down. Crews then made entry and knocked down the remaining fire. After an extensive overhaul companies began to make up and clear the scene. The cause is under investigation by the Marlborough Fire Department and the State Fire Marshal’s office. - JIM FORTIN
Lunenburg, MA - Shortly after midnight and after just picking up from a chimney fire, fire struck in this two story house. Companies were dispatched for heavy smoke and fire on the first floor of the home. On arrival, the working fire was quickly sounded and mutual aid was called to assist. Firefighters found smoke throughout the entire home and Chief Pat Sullivan struck the second and third alarms for manpower. Leominster responded to the scene with an engine and ladder, Fitchburg with an engine and Shirley and Townsend with engines. Firefighters made an aggressive attack on the second floor and were able to bring this fire under control within 45 minutes. One firefighter suffered a minor injury and was transported to the hospital. The fire is under investigation.
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
January, 2013
PAGe 29
MASSACHUSETTS
ROBERT S ALLEN
Six alarms injures two firefighters At approximately 10:10 p.m. on November 24, the Leominster Fire Department was dispatched to 65 Main Street, the Columbia Hotel. Upon arrival, crews encountered heavy smoke and fire in the ceilings on the third floor. Additional alarms were transmitted, bringing in multiple mutual aid companies to fight the blaze, which was in the void spaces above the third floor. Once firefighters were pulled
C&S
JUMP TO FILE #112612125
from the building due to heavy fire conditions, several ladder pipes and master streams were set up to fight the fire. Six alarms were transmitted and it took over five hours to bring the fire under control. Crews contended with strong winds and icing conditions while battling the blaze.
Two Westminster firefighters suffered minor injuries when a wall collapsed onto the aerial bucket they were operating out of at the rear of the building. The building had over 20 residences on the upper floors and was home to several businesses. Firefighters remained on scene throughout the day on Sunday extinguishing pockets of fire. - TINA GIANOS
C&S Specialty, Inc. Serving the needs of New England Fire Service for over 27 years!
www.csspecialty.com • 1-800-321-0325 1181 Old Smithfield Rd. N Smithfield, RI 02896
TINA GIANOS
C&S Specialty is on the Mass FIR 03 and Plymouth County Bids
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C&S RI State DOT Inspection #159C
C&S Service Dept., now accepting applications for Apparatus Service Technician
PAGE 30
January, 2013
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
NATE ARNOLD PAT TRAVERS
26 Suffolk St, the second job of the day for SFD.
Quincy firefighters battle Three fires in 12 hours for Springfield jakes three alarm blaze Quincy, MA. Around 1:45 a.m. on the cold morning of Tuesday, November 27th, 2012, the Quincy Fire Department struck their box 2412 and responded to a reported building fire at 488 Quincy Avenue, at the corner of East Howard Street. Companies arrived to find a fire in a large two and a half story wood framed structure that appeared to be vacant. A working fire was requested. Shortly thereafter, a second alarm was ordered after companies found heavy fire on floor two, and had fire through the roof. Due to the heavy fire conditions, all companies were ordered out of the vacant building. A defensive attack was initiated with several hand lines in operation. Once the heavy fire, that was venting through the roof, subsided and they heavy fire was knocked down, crews returned to make an aggressive attack inside the building, overhauling and hitting hot spots. As crews worked inside again, heavy fire was once again found in the attic area. A third alarm was ordered, and the companies were again ordered out of the building. Companies used hand lines and deck guns to knock the remainder of the fire down. The building was initially utilized as a residential property; however it’s last tenant used the building for commercial use. The property was vacant for several years and was reportedly frequently used by squatters in the area. The Quincy Fire Department utilized the state fire marshal's office in investigating this early
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morning blaze. It was determined to be an arson fire, that was started in an inside stairwell of the building. The marshal's office wouldn't say that the fire was related to a string of arson fires that have recently plagued the South Shore of Massachusetts, but they did comment that it does not fit the pattern of the other suspicious fires in the area. No injuries were reported at the scene. - PAT TRAVERS
USCG APPROVED SOLAS
Starting at 4:00 a.m. on Sunday, November 11, 2012, the Springfield Fire Department responded to the first of what would be three fires in a 12 hour period, taxing department resources to the limit. The first fire at 4:00 a.m. was toned out for 384 Franklin St. in the Liberty Heights section of the city. Companies arrived to find an occupied three story wood frame multiple dwelling with heavy smoke showing from the Alpha side. Companies attempted an interior attack on this fire only to be withdrawn due to deteriorating conditions, switching to a defensive attack. A little over an hour later, at 5:20 a.m., while crews were still overhauling the building on Franklin Street, dispatch sent the remaining city companies to a reported structure fire at 26 Suffolk Street in the Old Hill section of the
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city. First due Engine 8 and Ladder 8 called on scene at this fire with heavy smoke showing from the Bravo side first floor. Companies stretched lines to the first floor, second floor and the attic as well. The fire, which gained a foothold in the void spaces of the walls on the first floor, made it into the attic before jakes were able to extinguish the it. Several hours later, at 4:40 p.m. day tour members got in on the action when they were toned out to respond to a vacant home at 33 Richelieu Street in the South End for another structure fire. Companies found the aforementioned vacant two and a half story wood frame dwelling with fire racing up the Charlie side wall.
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Working quick, Springfield's bravest made a quick stop on the fire, limiting the fire damage to the exterior of the structure. However, during overhaul operations, crews discovered multiple code violations due to illegal renovations and the structure may have to be demolished. The arson squad was called into investigate all three fires. The first fire's cause may not be determined due to the fact the building collapsed due to extensive fire damage. The second fire was determined to have been started by an electrical short in the kitchen ceiling on the first floor and did about $150,000 damage. The third fire is being called suspicious in origin as it started outside the building and the building was vacant at the time. - NATE ARNOLD
From worksuits to immersion suits, flotation apparel and PFDs, Landfall has the Mustang gear you need to get everyone home safely. We also carry a full line of safety gear including pyrotechnic flares, electronic distress signals, and much more. For expert outfitting advice from trained specialists, stop in or give us a call. Visit us online for a free catalog, monthly e-mail, or to shop anytime.
800-941-2219 | landfallrescue.com Harvard Avenue in Stamford (I-95, Exit 6)
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January, 2013
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
PaGE 31
MASSACHUSETTS
Two photographers travel to Staten Island with donations In only a week and with nothing but the power of social media (and a small article in a local newspaper) and pounding the pavement on foot, I set out to collect donations to bring down to Staten Island, NY to give to the victims of Hurricane Sandy. In that short time, the outpouring of support was nothing short of amazing. Donations came from as far as California. Enough donations, to fill a cargo van to the roof, not an inch of available space left after packing. Fellow photographer Alex Jones, friend Dave Lowe and I planned to set out on November 16 to Staten Island, an area that was hit particularly hard by Sandy. A contact was made through my mother, Paula Wiles, using the social networking website BikerHeaven.com. A friend of hers put us in contact with William Daly, a member of the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 726 out of Staten Island. Using Facebook and text messages, I kept in touch with William, providing updates on how the collection was going and what our plans were for our trip down. Thursday night, with the help of my mother, my sister Victoria, and friends Michelle and Nick Campbell and Mike Walsh, the van was loaded and ready for our journey to New York. We departed Braintree, Massachusetts shortly after 8 a.m. on Friday morning. After making a stop in Connecticut to purchase food and meet up with Dave, our two car caravan continued on our way. After dealing with typical New York City traffic and a few road hazards along the way, we finally made it to our destination shortly after 4 p.m. After unloading all of our donations, ATU726 President Daniel Cassella treated us to New York pizza. After finding a Holiday Inn in Clark, NJ, for the night, Alex and I set back out to Staten Island to tour the neighborhoods hardest hit by the storm. We took a ride down to Mansion Ave, a marina community that had boats littered across the street, slammed into homes and flooding as high as six to eight feet in basements of the homes. Crews from ConEdison were there working to restore the power to the neighborhood. Each home, however, had to be individually inspected by an electrical inspector before they could turn the power on to each house. Boats still lay on the front lawn of one house and others in the street. Cars that had been damaged by water and floating debris were fenced off. Homeowners were arriving at their homes for the first time in almost three weeks. They pulled belongings out of basements, brought in cleaning supplies, and got to work. From there, we foundourselves in the Midland Beach community of Staten Island. At first glance, it looked as though every-
MUTUAL AID GORDON WREN
KEVIN WILES, JR
Staten Island, NY - Volunteers stack cases of Gatorade outside of the New Dorp Beach Friendship Club in Staten Island, NY on Saturday, November 17, 2012.
JUMP TO FILE #112512114
thing was normal. As we turned off of Hylan Ave and onto Ebbitts Street, it became clear that it was anything but normal. Cars lined the street, covered in a muddy film from being submerged in flood waters. Homes had holes in them, where walls used to be. Large tents were set up outside a catering hall on Ebbitts Street offering supplies to neighborhood residents. We turned down Cedar Grove Avenue and we realized just how hard this area was impacted by the storm. There were cars pushed up against homes and on the side of the street. Fences were mangled and mud still covered the road. Outside a church on Cedar Grove Avenue, the New Dorp Beach Friendship Club had set up a serving area, cooking burgers and hot dogs for residents and volunteers. Alex and I asked if we could
join them and were welcomed by the pastor. We set up our table and portable kitchen and went to work, cooking burgers and hot dogs as well. As fast as we could cook them, they were gone. As the day went on, the crowd only got bigger. Finally, a large box truck had arrived, full of donated items and supplies. They quickly got to work unloading the truck and lining up the supplies on the sidewalk. They were organized neatly so that anyone in the area could come down and collect anything they needed to help clean up and start the rebuilding process. Power was still out in the area and crews were working to install temporary water pipes. At one point, a small group of cameras showed up and we quickly realized it was New York Governor Andrew Cuomo. He had come out to the neighborhood, accompanied by Paul Tuttle Jr. of Orange County Choppers, a motorcycle builder made famous by a television show
on the Discovery Channel. They spoke with residents, toured the damage and offered encouragement. After four hours of cooking food and talking with residents and volunteers, all of our supply was gone. We cleaned up the brand new portable camping kitchen that Alex had purchased and donated it to a family across the street from the church. As we departed New York with the sun setting behind us, we knew that there was still a long way to go for the people of Staten Island and the rest of New York and New Jersey impacted by Hurricane Sandy before their lives will resemble anything close to normal. Our thoughts and prayers are with them, as they work tirelessly to get back to a normal way of life, and rebuild everything that was destroyed by this historic storm. - KEVIN WILES JR
CONNECTICUT VALLEY FIRE APPARATUS LLC is a proud dealer for Alexis Fire Equipment
Early this year I read a “Letter to the Editor” from a weekly upstate New York County newspaper. The writer indicated that his homeowner’s insurance policy had gone up from $600 per year to over $1,000 per year. When he called the insurance company, he was told that his fire protection class rating had gone from a 6/7 to a 10.I doubt if most property owners, or firefighters for that matter, realize that insurance carriers base their overall policy fees on these ratings of the local fire department, which in this case, are done by the Insurance Service Organization, known as ISO. A 10 is the worst rating assigned to properties that are far from any fire station or fire hydrants. An ISO rating of 1 is the best, with very few fire departments achieving this prestigious rating. The writer of the “Letter to the Editor” challenged the $633 increase. He just so happened to be the chairman of his local fire district and knew that his home was actually an ISO rating 6 because he was less than 5 miles from the fire house and there was a hydrant within 1,000 feet of his home. After checking on his complaint, the firefighter and his family are receiving a refund. The insurance company claimed there was a computer error. He ends the letter by saying, “please check your bills for accuracy, especially when you see a jump in your rate.” I checked my own insurance policy renewal and noted that I was listed as being an ISO rating 4 when, in fact, the fire department where I reside and serve as a volunteer firefighter has an ISO rating of 3. I called the insurance company, and they reduced my insurance premium by $140. I urge you to do the same with your most recent annual bill.
Contact Gerry Post at (860) 989-8895 for more information.
January, 2013
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
PaGE 31
MASSACHUSETTS
Two photographers travel to Staten Island with donations In only a week and with nothing but the power of social media (and a small article in a local newspaper) and pounding the pavement on foot, I set out to collect donations to bring down to Staten Island, NY to give to the victims of Hurricane Sandy. In that short time, the outpouring of support was nothing short of amazing. Donations came from as far as California. Enough donations, to fill a cargo van to the roof, not an inch of available space left after packing. Fellow photographer Alex Jones, friend Dave Lowe and I planned to set out on November 16 to Staten Island, an area that was hit particularly hard by Sandy. A contact was made through my mother, Paula Wiles, using the social networking website BikerHeaven.com. A friend of hers put us in contact with William Daly, a member of the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 726 out of Staten Island. Using Facebook and text messages, I kept in touch with William, providing updates on how the collection was going and what our plans were for our trip down. Thursday night, with the help of my mother, my sister Victoria, and friends Michelle and Nick Campbell and Mike Walsh, the van was loaded and ready for our journey to New York. We departed Braintree, Massachusetts shortly after 8 a.m. on Friday morning. After making a stop in Connecticut to purchase food and meet up with Dave, our two car caravan continued on our way. After dealing with typical New York City traffic and a few road hazards along the way, we finally made it to our destination shortly after 4 p.m. After unloading all of our donations, ATU726 President Daniel Cassella treated us to New York pizza. After finding a Holiday Inn in Clark, NJ, for the night, Alex and I set back out to Staten Island to tour the neighborhoods hardest hit by the storm. We took a ride down to Mansion Ave, a marina community that had boats littered across the street, slammed into homes and flooding as high as six to eight feet in basements of the homes. Crews from ConEdison were there working to restore the power to the neighborhood. Each home, however, had to be individually inspected by an electrical inspector before they could turn the power on to each house. Boats still lay on the front lawn of one house and others in the street. Cars that had been damaged by water and floating debris were fenced off. Homeowners were arriving at their homes for the first time in almost three weeks. They pulled belongings out of basements, brought in cleaning supplies, and got to work. From there, we foundourselves in the Midland Beach community of Staten Island. At first glance, it looked as though every-
MUTUAL AID GORDON WREN
KEVIN WILES, JR
Staten Island, NY - Volunteers stack cases of Gatorade outside of the New Dorp Beach Friendship Club in Staten Island, NY on Saturday, November 17, 2012.
JUMP TO FILE #112512114
thing was normal. As we turned off of Hylan Ave and onto Ebbitts Street, it became clear that it was anything but normal. Cars lined the street, covered in a muddy film from being submerged in flood waters. Homes had holes in them, where walls used to be. Large tents were set up outside a catering hall on Ebbitts Street offering supplies to neighborhood residents. We turned down Cedar Grove Avenue and we realized just how hard this area was impacted by the storm. There were cars pushed up against homes and on the side of the street. Fences were mangled and mud still covered the road. Outside a church on Cedar Grove Avenue, the New Dorp Beach Friendship Club had set up a serving area, cooking burgers and hot dogs for residents and volunteers. Alex and I asked if we could
join them and were welcomed by the pastor. We set up our table and portable kitchen and went to work, cooking burgers and hot dogs as well. As fast as we could cook them, they were gone. As the day went on, the crowd only got bigger. Finally, a large box truck had arrived, full of donated items and supplies. They quickly got to work unloading the truck and lining up the supplies on the sidewalk. They were organized neatly so that anyone in the area could come down and collect anything they needed to help clean up and start the rebuilding process. Power was still out in the area and crews were working to install temporary water pipes. At one point, a small group of cameras showed up and we quickly realized it was New York Governor Andrew Cuomo. He had come out to the neighborhood, accompanied by Paul Tuttle Jr. of Orange County Choppers, a motorcycle builder made famous by a television show
on the Discovery Channel. They spoke with residents, toured the damage and offered encouragement. After four hours of cooking food and talking with residents and volunteers, all of our supply was gone. We cleaned up the brand new portable camping kitchen that Alex had purchased and donated it to a family across the street from the church. As we departed New York with the sun setting behind us, we knew that there was still a long way to go for the people of Staten Island and the rest of New York and New Jersey impacted by Hurricane Sandy before their lives will resemble anything close to normal. Our thoughts and prayers are with them, as they work tirelessly to get back to a normal way of life, and rebuild everything that was destroyed by this historic storm. - KEVIN WILES JR
CONNECTICUT VALLEY FIRE APPARATUS LLC is a proud dealer for Alexis Fire Equipment
Early this year I read a “Letter to the Editor” from a weekly upstate New York County newspaper. The writer indicated that his homeowner’s insurance policy had gone up from $600 per year to over $1,000 per year. When he called the insurance company, he was told that his fire protection class rating had gone from a 6/7 to a 10.I doubt if most property owners, or firefighters for that matter, realize that insurance carriers base their overall policy fees on these ratings of the local fire department, which in this case, are done by the Insurance Service Organization, known as ISO. A 10 is the worst rating assigned to properties that are far from any fire station or fire hydrants. An ISO rating of 1 is the best, with very few fire departments achieving this prestigious rating. The writer of the “Letter to the Editor” challenged the $633 increase. He just so happened to be the chairman of his local fire district and knew that his home was actually an ISO rating 6 because he was less than 5 miles from the fire house and there was a hydrant within 1,000 feet of his home. After checking on his complaint, the firefighter and his family are receiving a refund. The insurance company claimed there was a computer error. He ends the letter by saying, “please check your bills for accuracy, especially when you see a jump in your rate.” I checked my own insurance policy renewal and noted that I was listed as being an ISO rating 4 when, in fact, the fire department where I reside and serve as a volunteer firefighter has an ISO rating of 3. I called the insurance company, and they reduced my insurance premium by $140. I urge you to do the same with your most recent annual bill.
Contact Gerry Post at (860) 989-8895 for more information.
PAGE 32
January, 2013
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
SMOKESHOWINGPHOTOGRAPHY.COM
House burns for the second time in Leominster
PAUL VALLONE
Firefighters protect exposures in Clarksburg Clarksburg, MA. Firefighters conducted a demolition burn for a town resident, which quickly reduced the single story dilapidated structure, to a cellar hole. With the assistance of the Stamford (VT) Fire Department, the burn was a great opportunity to conduct tanker shuttles, manage hose streams and convey the importance of protecting exposures. The garage and shed, 20 feet away, were completely unscathed by the burn.
Leominster MA. FireďŹ ghters put out a ďŹ re reported in a vacant home on Glenwood Drive Saturday November 3rd about 12:20 a.m. Companies arrived on scene with ďŹ re showing from the back and side of the house. Deputy Chief Jeffrey Davis called the working ďŹ re and requested a RIT company from the City of Fitchburg to the ďŹ re. The home was boarded up and due to the volume of ďŹ re, the ďŹ reďŹ ghters were unable to gain entry. It is the second time the home has been the site of a ďŹ re in less than a year. The home appeared to have
JUMP TO FILE #111712109
been broken into back in December 2011. There was heavy damage to the building and remains uninhabitable. Local police are working with the ďŹ re department and state ďŹ re marshal's ofďŹ ce to determine a cause of the blaze. Mutual aid from Lancaster, Lunenburg and Sterling Fire Departments manned the city's ďŹ re stations.
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January, 2013
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
PAgE 35
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PAGE 36
January, 2013
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
JIM FORTIN
JAKE O'CALLAGHAN/CWN
Accident at Route 39 and Bay Road Harwich, MA. A Honda Accord leaving the East Harwich post office was hit by a Chevrolet Silverado on Route 39 and Bay Road. The accident happened Friday, November 23 around 12:30 p.m. The elderly man was trapped in his vehicle for twenty minutes until Harwich Fire and Rescue could extract him using the Jaws of Life. The Silverado truck received minor damage. The male in the Honda was transported to Cape Cod Hospital. He will be charged with failure to stop before entering a major roadway. ROBERT S ALLEN
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TINA GIANOS
Lancaster battles four alarm barn fire At 1:15 on November 10, 2012, Lancaster firefighters were dispatched to 237 Brockelman Road for a structure fire. Companies arrived to a fully involved one and a half story barn at Manny’s Dairy Farm. A second alarm was struck for mutual aid tankers. There were severe water problems with no hydrants in the area. Companies had to lay supply lines from Route 117 to establish a water supply. A total of four alarms were struck and a tanker task force was requested. Mutual aid came from Bolton, Berlin, Stow, Harvard, Fitchburg, Leominster, Sterling, Shirley, Westminster, Clinton, Princeton, Boylston and Lunenburg arrived with multiple other towns covering the town. There were no reported injuries to firefighters or livestock. The fire was knocked down by 3:00 p.m. and the cause is under investigation.
1st Responder Newspaper - NE
January, 2013
PAGE 37
AppArAtus For sAle
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Leominster MA. Chief of Department Robert Sideleau II held a showing at the quarters of Engine 3 to see the newest engine added to the fleet. City Counselors and the mayor of the city arrived at Engine 3 and took the opportunity to see the new engine after being placed into service. Fire Department Chaplin Rev. Susan Brown blessed the apparatus in a short ceremony. Refreshments were served during the event. The new engine runs out of the North Leominster Firehouse on the corner of Main St and Hamilton Street in Leominster.
2012 Rescue 1, Mass Care Response Unit (MCRU) available for immediate delivery. 22’-4” Walk-Around/Spartan Metro Star MFD six-man seating w/10” raised roof and Cummins ISC 330 hp engine. PTO 25 kw generator, 9000 watt Will-Burt light tower (1) 200’- 10/4 cable reel, (2) 750 FRC tripod portable lights, cab storage cabinet, climate-controlled storage medical compartment and much more. Tag on bid/purchase $334,166.00. For additional details visit www.rescue1mfg.com or contact Mike Marquis at (800) 752-8786, (732) 223-1411 (in NJ), mmarquis@plcustom.com.
FOR SALE - 1992 E-ONE ENGINE Allison Auto Transmission, 1250 GPM Hale Pump Cummins 300HP Engine. 750 Gallon Poly Tank. 24,000 Miles • 10,500 Hours • Very Well Maintained $45,000 For more info contact: Chief Lester Wolcott 570-656-2217 or Lt. David Koerner 570-872-7694
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2008 Ford F-450 4x4 cab and chassis Ambulance 55,000 miles • Asking $75,000 Ford 6.4 liter Powerstroke V8 turbo diesel Well maintained - complete records available For additional info contact Bill or Ray at 518-885-1478 Email: Ray.Otten@Communityemergencycorps.org
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Southington, CT recently took delivery of a Sutphen Monarch Custom Pumper with a Cummins ISX 450 hp engine and Allison EVS 4000 transmission. Chief Harold Clark accepted the delivery from Jim Lyons of Five Star Fire. Pictured are Jim Lyons,Five Star Fire; Drew Sutphen, President of Sutphen Fire Apparatus; Chief Harold Clark, Southington Fire Department; Lieutenant Jimmy Paul; Firefighter Keith Glabau; Firefighter Glenn Dube and Firefighter Scott Lee.
2012 Rescue 1 rescue demo is available for immediate delivery. 18’-9” Walk-Around/Spartan MFD six man seating w/10” raised roof and Cummins ISL 450 hp engine. PTO 35 kw generator, 9000 watt Will-Burt light tower, hydraulic full lift-up stairs to (4) upper storage compartments, (2) 200’- 10/4 cable reels and much more. For additional details visit our Website: www.rescue1mfg.com or contact Mike Marquis at (800) 752-8786, (732) 223-1411 (in NJ), mmarquis@plcustom.com.
2012 Rescue 1 rescue demo is available for immediate delivery. 16’-3” Walk-Around/International 4400 four-door chassis, fiveman seating, and MaxxForce 9/315 hp engine. PTO 35 kw generator, 9000 watt Will-Burt light tower, fold down ladder to (4) upper storage compartments, 9000 lb portable winch and much more. For additional details visit our Website: www.rescue1mfg.com or contact Mike Marquis at (800) 752-8786, (732) 223-1411 (in NJ), mmarquis@plcustom.com.
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PAGE 38
January, 2013
1sT Responder Newspaper - NE
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the last thing that makes logical sense in such trying times is to give at all. The Boynton Beach Firefighter Benevolent Association and IAFF Local #1891 can not possibly express the heartfelt gratitude that each shares for everyone who stood up and threw down for this very worthy cause. Heroes all.
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1st Responder Newspaper - NE
January, 2013
Page 39
INTRODUCING ROAD RESCUE Minuteman Fire and Rescue Apparatus, Inc. is pleased to announce the addition of Road Rescue to our sales line. After months of researching and planning, the decision was made to provide the highest quality ambulance to our customers. These emergency vehicles are the safest and most innovative in the industry. Road Rescue has been making whisper quiet, all aluminum interiors since 1976. â&#x20AC;˘ 100% wood free interior â&#x20AC;˘ Formed walls from 1/8-inch thick aluminum * %* * # %" ! $ * % " % â&#x20AC;˘
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PAGE 40
January, 2013
1st Responder Newspaper - NE