1st Responder News NE August Edition

The New England Edition PUBLISHING SINCE 1993

HOME SUBSCRIPTION - $48/YEAR

WWW.1RBN.COM

AUGUST, 2026

THREE-ALARM FIRE DISPLACES MULTIPLE FAMILIES ON ELY AVENUE IN NORWALK

NORWALK FIRE DEPT.

NORWALK, CT — The Norwalk Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 187 Ely Avenue on Saturday, June 13th, at 4:22 p.m. The building involved was a 2 1/2-story multi-family residence. While responding, fire companies observed a significant column of smoke visible from several blocks away. Upon arrival, Car 2 reported heavy fire showing from the side and rear of the structure, with smoke pushing from all floors.

- See full story on Page 35

Join our Team of Dispatchers Paging with a Rewards Program!

Visit our website to fill out an application.

www.1rwn.com

PAGE 2

August, 2026

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

RHODE ISLAND

COURTESY OF PROVIDENCE FIRE DEPARTMENT

CHOPMIST HILL VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT

Early-Morning Blaze Destroys Scituate Home SCITUATE, RI - At approximately 3:17 a.m. on May 26th, firefighters from all Scituate stations, along with Rescue 2, were dispatched to Talbut Road following reports of a residential structure fire. Tanker 61, Brush 63, and Unit 68 quickly responded to the scene as crews raced to contain the rapidly growing blaze.

First-arriving firefighters from the Hope & Jackson Fire Company transmitted a Code Red after encountering a heavily involved twostory wood-frame home fully engulfed in flames. Officials confirmed that all occupants had safely

JUMP TO FILE #052926119

evacuated prior to the arrival of emergency crews.

Due to significant structural collapse that had already occurred before firefighters arrived, crews were forced to conduct an exterior defensive operation for safety reasons. Firefighters worked for several hours to bring the fire under control and prevent further hazards.

A total of 13 members from Chopmist Hill responded and remained on scene for approximately

four hours assisting with suppression efforts and overhaul operations.

Apparatus operating at the incident included: Scituate Fire Department: Engine 41, Engine 52, Tanker 61, Brush 63, Unit 68, and Unit 58; Coventry Fire Department: Engine 4, Engine 7, Quint 1, Rescue 4, and Car 61; Cranston Fire Department: Engine 5 and Battalion 2.

Fire officials extended their thoughts and prayers to the family affected by the devastating fire.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

COURTESY OF PROVIDENCE FIRE DEPARTMENT

Residents Displaced After Fire at Providence Apartment Complex PROVIDENCE, R.I. - The Providence Fire Department reported that a fire at the Arbor Glen apartment complex on East Drive on May 7th resulted in the displacement of 11 households. Responding from the department's headquarters, firefighters attempted to safely evacuate residents while containing the fire.

The cause of the fire is still being looked into, according to officials.

While some inhabitants experienced severe damage and were temporarily displaced, others were able to return to their apartments.

JUMP TO FILE #052526118

After the fire, the American Red Cross provided emergency housing and support services to impacted families. Additionally, the Providence Department of Recreation opened its facility to offer responding agencies and displaced individuals temporary refuge and support.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM CHOPMIST HILL VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

August, 2026

PAGE 3

PAGE 4

August, 2026

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

RHODE ISLAND

Advertising Index A guide to finding great companies

Company

Page

Armor Tuff Flooring

15

So, you got assigned to the box. Now what?

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR ALAN GLOGOVSKY, FF-AEMT

7

Mid Atlantic Rescue

NE Fire Equipment

5

New England Marine

23

Single Fin Golf Co.

23

Sutphen

3

UNH College

13

CORPORATE INFORMATION 1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New England edition - Vol. 30, No 8 - is published monthly, 12 times a year for $48 per year by Belsito Communications, Inc., 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. Periodicals Postage Paid at Newburgh, NY and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. No financial responsibility is assumed by this newspaper to publish a display, classified, or legal ad or for typographical errors except of reprinting that part of the ad which was omitted or in error.

Omissions A division of: or errors must be brought to the attention of the newspaper during the same month of publication.

Printed in Canada.

845-534-7500• (fax) 845-534-0055 Info@belsito.com

If you were like me or any of the thousands of our brothers and sisters growing up, you wanted to be a firefighter. The itch could have started early in childhood or midteens, it doesn’t matter, it just got there and you acted upon it.

You prepared both physically and mentally, you took several department tests and finally you got the call. You spend the next six months at the training academy.

Mornings start with physical training, then classroom, drill ground and EMT. Finally, you graduate from the academy and get your station assignment.

Several months go by and you get sent out a few times to cover other spots in the department. You don’t mind because, you’re a FIREFIGHTER. Then it happens, you get moved to the med unit. You feel every bit of excitement leave your body like you’re melting. You grab all your gear, bedding and whatever else you think you might need for the next 24 hours because the med unit is at another station.

As you drive over to the station, you start thinking the last time you saw this truck was when it was at the shop when it first came in.

You’ve never been in it, drove it or even know what’s in it. You think to yourself, how can I be placed on a unit that I know nothing about.

Yet as you pull into the station parking lot, that thought fades.

You walk into the station, find the station officer to let him know you are here. He introduces you to your partner for the shift. Your partner shakes your hand and invites you to help him do the daily check out. Now is the fork in the road that decides your fate, not only for this shift, but future assignments.

Having been on both sides of the fence, I can tell you with certainty that being on the med unit is not a death sentence. But it is how YOU handle it that will determine how it turns out. Below I’ll touch on how you can make this your own.

The first thing you need to do is accept it. Your department has decided to expand its mission and as a member of the department you must expand with it. I always like hearing the “I did not sign up for this”. The fact of the matter is YES, you did sign up for this. You applied, tested for, and trained for the opportunity to help people; well this is part of helping people. The business of the fire department is to be there for Mr. & Mrs. Smith, whether their house is on fire or they are having a heart attack.

Second, get involved. While it’s true that this was not your choice assignment, it is assignment. You need to make every attempt to know what is on the truck and where it is. You did the same thing when you got to your first station, so this should be no different. Don’t be afraid to “lay hands” on the equipment; all of the equipment. Take the time to learn how things work, for example the stretcher. Yes, I know that sounds silly but, I’ve had to teach firefighters that were assigned to the med unit with me how the stretcher works. There is no shame in asking; as a matter of fact, now would be the perfect time to ask, not when you’re on a CPR call. In fact, that is one of the first things I go over with members doing their first shift on the truck. Nothing is worse than having to watch your partner struggle with something and then you have to redirect your attention to help him and not your patient. Go over every inch of the truck, from the cab to the compartments, to the rear doors. You will thank yourself later.

Finally, treat this assignment just like any other. You are there to help others, whether you like the detail or not. Even if you’re unhappy being there, don’t show it. Mr. and Mrs. Smith are depending on you. Who knows, you might even like it.

Alan Glogovsky is a 35-year veteran of fire & EMS. He is currently a Sergeant/AEMT with the Richmond Hill Fire & Rescue Department in Richmond Hill, Georgia. Previously, he has served in both fire and EMS agencies in New Jersey and Georgia.

Alan is a Level-1 Fire instructor in the State of Georgia along with being certified Level-2 fire Officer.

COURTESY OF EAST GREENWICH FIREFIGHTERS ASSOCIATION IAFF L 3328

East Greenwich Firefighters Association Secures Funding for Protective Gear EAST GREENWICH, R.I. — May 15th — In order to improve Rescue Task Force and active threat response capabilities, the East Greenwich Firefighters Association (IAFF Local 3328) announced that it has been awarded a $9,000 state legislative grant. The money would help firefighters and EMS professionals buy ballistic protection equipment and specialist Rescue Task Force gear. According to officials, the equipment will enhance responder safety while assisting crews in providing quick medical attention in high-risk situations.

Following the active shooter

JUMP TO FILE #052826125

event at Brown University in December 2025, when East Greenwich staff reacted as part of the mutual aid response system, department leaders emphasized the significance of regional preparedness. According to the department, the award is a crucial first step in creating a comprehensive Rescue Task Force program, with department-wide training being the main focus of future initiatives.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

FLASHBACK If you have photos you would like to see in our “FLASHBACK” feature please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

COURTESY OF CHARLESTOWN RICHMOND FIRE DEPARTMENT

CHARLESTOWN, R.I. - The Charlestown-Richmond Fire Company, which is currently the Charlestown Richmond Fire Department, is acknowledged as one of the organization's founding member departments by a Southern Fire League membership certificate. The league was established to enhance radio communication and mutual aid response among fire departments in southern Rhode Island. In order to improve regional emergency response operations, the Southern Fire League first joined together units from Charlestown, Richmond, Westerly, and neighboring villages. The group eventually grew to become the Rhode Island Southern Firefighters League. The certificate acts as a reminder of the longstanding departmental collaboration that still supports EMS and fire operations throughout the area.

August, 2026

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

PAGE 5

STOCK AMBULANCE NOW AVAILABLE! FEATURES INCLUDE: • TYPE 1 CTBW AMBULANCE • FORD 550 XLT CHASSIS • V-8 DIESEL • 4x4 • 14’ MODULE

$369,600

• MIM INTERIOR • 72” INTERIOR HEIGHT

FIROVAC STOCK TANKER! NOW AVAILABLE!

• Freightliner FL-114 Chassis • Cummins X12 - 500 HP

• Allison 4000 Series Transmission • Aluminum Hawk Body • 1250 Waterous Pump • 3000 Gallon Tank

PAGE 6

August, 2026

1 ARDMORE STREET • NEW WINDSOR, NY 12553 845-534-7500 • (fax) 845-534-0055 • News@1stResponderNews.com

EXECUTIVE STAFF PUBLISHER

Joe Belsito (Joe@1stRespondernews.com) ••• GENERAL MANAGER

Kathy Ronsini (Kathy@1stResponderNews.com)

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

In memory of those who gave all

••• MANAGING EDITOR

Lindsey Palmer (Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com) ••• PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Ashley Ramos (Ashley@1stResponderNews.com) ••• OPERATIONAL MANAGER

Nicholas Belsito (Nicholas@1stResponderNews.com) ••• DISPATCHER RECRUITMENT & RETENTION (Rich@1stResponder.com)

EDITORIAL STAFF COLUMNISTS ••• Rick Billings (Cartoon) Bob Long (Cartoon) John Malecky (Apparatus, Bookshelf) Didymus McHugh (Chaplain’s Corner) Fernando Villicana (Chaplain’s Corner)

CORRESPONDENTS ••• Nate Arnold • Sterling Beaucage • Jeffrey Belschwinder • Sayje Benjamin • David Bowen • David Bryce • Michael Carenza Jr. • Dylan Conway • Doug Fenichel • Sean Fesko • Ryan Flaherty • Karin Halstead • Jay Heath • Patrick Kerrigan • William King • Lee Krohn • Kenneth Leger • Peter Lobo • Chuck Lowe • Patrick Magyar • Phillip McCully • Bernie Meehan Jr. • Keith Milton • Kevin Mosio • Brian Owen • Edward Prescott • Greg Ramsdell • Frank Robinson • Coral Ruggiero • Dick Scialabba • Shaun Shattuck • Shane Shifflett • John Sjostedt • Ken Snyder • Robert Sprague • Jack Stawasz • Pat Travers • Peter Walsh Jr. • Eugene Weber Jr. • Diana White

EDITORIAL INFORMATION Join our team of correspondents or columnists! 1st Responder Newspaper welcomes submissions by our readers. Send stories and photos to us at 1 Ardmore St. New Windsor, NY 12553. Or, give us a call or send us an e-mail. If using the mail, please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for all submissions you wish to have returned. Publisher reserves the right to refuse any editorial or advertising material submitted.

845-534-7500 ext. 212 • (fax) 845-534-0055 News@1stResponderNews.com

ADVERTISING INFORMATION If you would like information about how advertising in 1st Responder News can benefit your company call our advertising hotline at:

845-534-7500 ext. 211 • (fax) 845-534-0055 Advertising@1stResponderNews.com

CIRCULATION INFORMATION 1st Responder Newspaper is delivered to all fire, rescue, ambulance stations and hospitals. If you do not receive your papers, please contact our circulation department. Home subscriptions are $48 per year.

845-534-7500 ext. 220 • (fax) 845-534-0055 Circulation@1stResponderNews.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN/MARKETING 1st Responder News’ graphics team will work with you on your adverA division of: tisement free of charge. Additionally, we offer a complete marketing department for all of your printed needs. Whether they are posters, or single sheet handouts, full color or black and white, no one else delivers the high quality work at our competitive prices.

As a newspaper in the Belsito Communications Inc. family, 1st Responder News has a state-of-the-art production facility which utilizes the latest scanning technology available. Materials are processed using Power Macintosh G4s. Output is handled on our HP Color LaserJet 8500 to produce this highest quality black and white or color prints on the market.

845-534-7500 ext. 214 • (fax) 845-534-0055 Info@Belsito.com

1st Responder Newspaper honors and remembers emergency responders lost in the line of duty Michigan: David Haverdink, 74 Rank: Chief Incident Date: Dec. 23, 2025 Death Date: Dec. 25, 2025 Fire Department: Hamilton Fire Department Initial Summary: At approximately 5:00 p.m. on December 23, 2025, Chief David Haverdink responded to a medical call at a residence. As he was preparing to leave the scene one hour later, Chief Haverdink was struck by a vehicle. His colleagues immediately began emergency care, and Chief Haverdink was transported to a hospital.

Chief Haverdink succumbed to his injuries at the hospital two days later on December 25, 2025.

California: Daniel "Danny" Cook, 45 Rank: Fire Apparatus Engineer Incident Date: Dec. 31, 2025 Death Date: Dec. 31, 2025 Fire Department: CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Department Initial Summary: At approximately 5:30 a.m. on December 31, 2025, Fire Apparatus Engineer Daniel "Danny" Cook along with other units from CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Department responded to a residential structure fire. While on scene, Engineer Cook suffered a medical emergency. A mayday was called, and emergency care was immediately provided. Engineer Cook was transported to the hospital. Despite efforts from medical professionals, he was pronounced deceased later that morning.

New Mexico: Brittany Hathaway, 36 Rank: Firefighter/EMT/Dispatcher Incident Date: Jan. 20, 2026 Death Date: Jan. 22, 2026 Fire Department: Cliff-Gila Fire Department Initial Summary: On January 20, 2026, Firefighter/EMT/Dispatcher Brittany Hathaway suffered a medical emergency while responding to a medical call.

Firefighter/EMT/Dispatcher Hathaway was transported to a local hospital where she passed away on January 22, 2026. The cause of death has yet to be determined.

Washington, DC: Keith T. Long, 58

Rank: Battalion Fire Chief Incident Date: Feb. 4, 2026 Death Date: Feb. 4, 2026 Fire Department: District of Columbia Fire and EMS Initial Summary: Soon after completing a 24-hour shift, Battalion Fire Chief Keith Long went to complete an annual stress test as required by the District of Columbia Fire and EMS. During the stress test, Battalion Fire Chief Long suffered a medical emergency. He was then transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased. The cause of death has not yet been determined.

New Jersey: Howard Bennett, 61 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: Feb. 5, 2026 Death Date: Feb. 5, 2026 Fire Department: Camden Fire Department Initial Summary: While preparing to leave a marina after fire department training, Firefighter Howard Bennett fell into the Delaware River and became trapped under ice-covered water. Firefighter Bennett was rescued by crews and transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased.

North Carolina: Dale Malone, 66 Rank: Firefighter/Safety Officer Incident Date: Feb. 10, 2026 Death Date: Feb. 10, 2026 Fire Department: White Level Rural Fire Department Initial Summary: Firefighter/Safety Officer Dale Malone responded with the White Level Rural Fire Department to a residential fire as a passenger in a fire department vehicle. Upon arrival at the scene but while still inside of the vehicle, Firefighter/Safety Officer Malone suffered a medical emergency. Firefighter/Safety Officer Malone was treated and transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased. The cause of death has yet to be determined.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

August, 2026

PAGE 7

PAGE 8

August, 2026

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

RHODE ISLAND

COURTESY OF LAKE MISHNOCK FIRE/RESCUE

Pickup Truck Fire Extinguished Fast-Moving Brush Fire Threatens Wood in West Greenwich

ASHAWAY VOLUNTEER FIRE ASSOCIATION

WEST GREENWICH, RI - A reported pickup truck fire on May 27th prompted Lake Mishnock Fire/Rescue, West Greenwich Fire Department #1, and West Greenwich EMS to respond to Weaver Hill Road.

Chief 203 was the first to arrive and verified that there was a working car fire. Soon after, Tanker 1 arrived and firefighters started suppression operations

JUMP TO FILE #053026115

using a handline.

Crews retrieved equipment and went back to work after the fire was put out and the area was secured. There were no reported injuries.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

Line Along Main Street in Ashaway ASHAWAY, RI - On May 6th, firefighters from the Ashaway Vol. Fire Association responded to a reported brush fire in the 400 block of Main Street and quickly encountered a working fire spreading into a nearby wooded area.

Brush 412 arrived first on scene and confirmed an active 10-by-15foot brush fire advancing toward the wood line.

Command was established by

JUMP TO FILE #050626152

Car 402, and crews rapidly deployed two 1¾-inch hand lines to surround and contain the flames before they could spread further.

The Ashaway Ambulance Association was placed on standby during operations, while the Hopkinton Police Department temporarily shut

down Main Street to provide firefighters with a safe working area.

Rhode Island Energy also responded after power lines became involved in the incident.

Thanks to the coordinated response, firefighters were able to quickly bring the situation under control and reopen the roadway to normal traffic shortly afterward.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

Westerly Fire Department Responds to Fatal Aircraft Crash WESTERLY, RI - On May 18th, shortly after noon, Westerly Dispatch alerted volunteer firefighters to reports of an aircraft crash near Airport Road, initially believed to involve a fire.

Upon arrival, it was determined that the plane had come down in a field near the Stop & Shop area on the opposite side of the airport, with no fire present.

Engine 3 confirmed the conditions on scene and requested an additional tone for manpower. As a precaution, crews deployed a 2½inch handline while Westerly Ambulance EMS personnel provided immediate care to the pilot.

Despite life-saving efforts, the pilot was later transported to the hospital, where they were pronounced deceased.

Multiple agencies responded

JUMP TO FILE #052526113

to the incident, including T.F. Green Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF), the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Rhode Island State Police, Westerly Police Department, and airport response units.

The crash remains under investigation by the NTSB. Officials extended condolences to the pilot’s family and friends during this difficult time. Responding units included Car 31, Car 34, Car 391, Car 393, Car 395; Engines 1, 3, and 4; and Special Hazards 1.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

ASHAWAY VOLUNTEER FIRE ASSOCIATION

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

August, 2026

PAGE 9

PAGE 10

August, 2026

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

RHODE ISLAND

DRILLS/TRAINING To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

CHOPMIST HILL VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT

Firefighter Falls Through Floor During Multi-Alarm House Fire in Providence RICHMOND - CAROLINA FIRE DISTRICT

PROVIDENCE, RI - On May 4th, firefighters from across Scituate and several surrounding communities responded to a heavily involved house fire on George Washington Highway after callers reported flames consuming nearly half of the home and a possible trapped occupant inside.

As crews arrived, Chief 50 confirmed a working “Code Red” fire in a single-story wood-frame ranch with visible fire conditions.

Tanker 61 advanced a handline through the front door while firefighters initiated an aggressive in-

JUMP TO FILE #050626153

terior attack and primary search for potential victims.

Due to reports of entrapment, additional resources including an RIT team and a Tanker Task Force were requested from Johnston, Smithfield, Foster, Glocester, Burrillville, and Coventry.

During interior operations, a firefighter from Tanker 61 fell through the first floor into the basement fire room while crews

were conducting searches following the initial knockdown.

A MAYDAY was immediately declared, and nearby firefighters quickly rescued the member from the collapse area. The firefighter was transported to the hospital with minor injuries and later released.

Primary and secondary searches ultimately confirmed that no occupants were inside the residence, which was determined to be unoccupied at the time of the fire.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

RICHMOND - CAROLINA FIRE DISTRICT

Richmond–Carolina Fire District junior members took part in a dynamic training session, gaining valuable experience with both EMS and extrication equipment. Crews welcomed the Hope Valley Ambulance Squad for an up-close look at ambulance operations, where participants learned to use tools including stretchers, stair chairs, and Reeves stretchers. Training then shifted to hydraulic rescue tools, with members practicing skills using spreaders and cutters. To challenge their precision and control, participants completed a hands-on exercise removing an egg from a cone without breaking it. The session highlighted the dedication and enthusiasm of the department’s junior firefighters as they continue building essential skills for the future.

CHOPMIST HILL VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

August, 2026

PAGE 11

RHODE ISLAND

HONORS & PROMOTIONS If you have photos you would like to see in our “Honors & Promotions” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

WESTERLY, R.I. - The Westerly Fire Department recognized several members for years of volunteer service during a recent department meeting at headquarters. Retired Assistant Chief Tom Keena was honored for 70 years of service, while Assistant Chief (Ret.) Bob Long was recognized for 60 years serving the community. Lt. J. Izzi received a years-of-service pin marking 10 years with the department. Although he was unable to attend, Firefighter P. Grube also surpassed the 10-year milestone. Founded in 1834, the Westerly Fire Department remains one of Rhode Island’s oldest volunteer departments and continues to provide fire suppression, rescue, and emergency response services.

EAST GREENWICH FIREFIGHTERS ASSOCIATION IAFF L 3328

Smoke Explosion Occurs During East Greenwich Third-Alarm Fire EAST GREENWICH, RI - On May 25th at approximately 3:00 a.m., the East Greenwich Fire Alarm Office received multiple 911 calls reporting a structure fire at 3400 South County Trail. Upon arrival, crews transmitted a working fire, which was later escalated to a 3rd Alarm due to the intensity and spread of the incident.

JUMP TO FILE #052926122

Firefighters operated under heavy fire conditions throughout the response. During operations, a smoke explosion occurred while members were inside the structure.

Fortunately, no injuries were re-

ported.

East Greenwich Firefighters were assisted by mutual aid partners, along with the Special Signal Fire Association and the Providence Canteen.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

COURTESY OF WESTERLY FIRE DEPARTMENT

COURTESY OF WESTERLY FIRE DEPARTMENT

EAST GREENWICH FIREFIGHTERS ASSOCIATION IAFF L 3328

PAGE 12

August, 2026

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

RHODE ISLAND

Hopkins Hill, Central Coventry, and Western Coventry Fire Districts Honor Lifesaving Actions in Remarkable Cardiac Arrest Survival COVENTRY, RI — The Hopkins Hill Fire District, alongside the Central Coventry Fire District, Western Coventry Fire District, and Coventry Fire Alarm, recently recognized firefighters, EMS personnel, dispatchers, and the family members involved in a remarkable cardiac arrest save that demonstrates the importance of CPR, rapid emergency response, and community preparedness.

The incident occurred on August 13, 2025, when emergency crews responded to a residence in the Central Coventry Fire District for a reported unconscious person.

Upon arrival, responders found a 48-year-old female in cardiac arrest. Prior to the arrival of emergency personnel, the patient’s parents immediately began CPR under the guidance of a Coventry Fire Alarm dispatcher and a State E-911 telecommunicator.

Responding crews from the Central Coventry, Hopkins Hill, and Western Coventry Fire Districts rapidly continued advanced life support care, including airway management, cardiac monitoring, CPR, and defibrillation after the patient was found to be in ventricular fibrillation.

Moments later, in what veteran EMS providers described as an extraordinary outcome, the patient regained consciousness and spontaneous breathing before arriving at the hospital. The patient was transported to Rhode Island Hospital alert and oriented and has since returned home and resumed her normal life with an implanted defibrillator.

Captain Peter Gingerella of the Central Coventry Fire District described the incident as unlike anything he had witnessed in nearly three decades as an EMS provider.

“In almost 30 years of being an EMS provider, I have never had a patient go from cardiac arrest to conscious and alert,” Gingerella stated. “If I had not witnessed this with my own eyes, I would not have believed it.”

Fire Chief John H. Potvin stated that the incident highlights the critical importance of immediate CPR and coordinated emergency response.

“This incredible outcome is a direct result of the chain of survival working exactly as it is intended,” said Chief Potvin. “The courage of the patient’s parents,

JUMP TO FILE #051926136

the calm professionalism of our dispatcher, and the outstanding teamwork of our firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics gave this patient another chance at life. This is a powerful reminder that CPR truly saves lives.” The agencies recognized the following personnel for their lifesaving efforts: Central Coventry Fire District • Captain Peter Gingerella • Firefighter Domenic Bianco • Lieutenant Brennan Phillips • Former Firefighter Jonathan Skurka • Lieutenant Raymond Castelli • Firefighter Anthony Cataldo Hopkins Hill Fire District • Firefighter Justin Deem • Firefighter Michael Mancini Western Coventry Fire District • Former Firefighter Joshua Plaziak • Firefighter Maurice Remillard Coventry Fire Alarm • Dispatcher Frank Hart The first responders were awarded American Heart Association Heart Saver Hero Awards and EMS Pride Medical Director Quality Awards from Dr. Kenneth Williams and the Rhode Island Ambulance Service Coordinating Advisory Board. The agencies also extended special recognition to the patient’s parents for their immediate and courageous actions in beginning CPR before responders arrived. The awards were presented by Chief Potvin and Chief Kevin Cady of the Central Coventry Fire District with the assistance of Jessica, the cardiac arrest survivor.

The incident serves as a reminder of the lifesaving value of CPR training and early intervention. The American Heart Association’s Heartsaver Hero program recognizes individuals whose actions help save lives during cardiac emergencies through immediate CPR and rapid response.

Community members are encouraged to learn Hands-Only CPR and become familiar with the warning signs of sudden cardiac arrest. Immediate CPR performed by bystanders can double or even triple a victim’s chance of survival.

- CHIEF JOHN H. POTVIN

MATTHEW DEFELICE

KERI POTVIN

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

August, 2026

PAGE 13

PAGE 14

August, 2026

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

RHODE ISLAND

DRILLS/TRAINING To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

RICHMOND - CAROLINA FIRE DISTRICT

Richmond–Carolina Fire District members conducted training focused on vehicle cribbing and stabilization, reinforcing critical techniques used during motor vehicle accidents. Crews practiced methods to safely secure vehicles, allowing for effective patient access while minimizing risk to both victims and firefighters.

BRISTOL FIRE DEPARTMENT-RI

Firefighters from the Bristol Fire Department participated in live fire training, focusing on key skills such as hose line advancement, search and rescue, and ground ladder operations. The training, hosted with support from the Fall River Fire Department, provided realistic conditions that helped crews sharpen coordination and on-scene decision-making.

CHEPACHET FIRE DEPARTMENT

CHEPACHET, RI - Students enrolled in emergency services training classes at Ponaganset High School took part in an intense multi-agency crash simulation designed to challenge their emergency response skills and highlight the real-world consequences of impaired and reckless driving. Dubbed “Operation Twisted Steel,” the exercise centered around a two-vehicle collision involving heavy entrapment, a simulated fatality, and a DUI investigation. The realistic scenario tested students’ ability to perform under pressure while working alongside experienced first responders in a fast-paced emergency environment. The Chepachet Fire Department, West Glocester Fire and Rescue, Harmony Fire District, South Foster Fire Department, and the Glocester Police Department all participated in the large-scale training event.

TIVERTON FIRE DEPARTMENT

Members of the Tiverton Fire Department took part in a coordinated training exercise alongside the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management at the Eight Rod Farm Management Area, conducting a prescribed burn. The operation served as a hands-on training opportunity, allowing crews to work with fire as a management tool while strengthening skills in controlled burn techniques.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

August, 2026

PAGE 15

ONE DAY INSTALLATION! LIFETIME WARRANTY 5:00 PM SAME DAY

8:00 AM

NON SKID & NON SLIP PISCATAWAY NEW MARKET CO. 2

AUTHORIZED DEALER FOR GROVES READY RACKS, PPE EXTRACTORS AND DRYERS

TOTOWA FD, NJ RIDGEWAY FD BANQUET HALL

ROCKY HILL FD

OCEAN COMPANY #1

ASK ABOUT OUR HEAVILY DISCOUNTED PRICES AND GET A QUOTE NOW!

WILL NOT: CRACK, CHIP, PEEL, FADE, OR STAIN ARMOR TUFF TILES WILL NOT BE UNDERSOLD ArmorTuffTiles@gmail.com • www.armortufftile.com • 908-917-7697

PAGE 16

August, 2026

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

RHODE ISLAND

Regional Response Tackles Massive Scrap Yard Fire in Westport TIVERTON, RI - Tiverton firefighters joined a large-scale mutual aid response to a scrap metal fire in Westport, May 5th, as flames at the Mid City facility escalated and drew departments from across the reJUMP TO FILE# gion.

Crews also 050926142 worked to contain multiple brush fires along Davies Road, believed to have been sparked by wind-driven embers from the original incident.

Firefighters remained on scene through the night, working to bring the situation under control.

While on-duty personnel operated at the incident, off-duty Tiverton members staffed local stations..

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

Get your personal copy of

The NE Edition Name:______________________ Telephone:___________________

TIVERTON FIRE DEPARTMENT

Address:____________________ City: ______________________ State:_____ Zip: _____________ __ $48 for one year subscription __ $90 for two year subscription

PAYMENT METHOD __ Check __ Money Order __ Charge card Card # _____________________ Exp:____________ Signature ___________________ Send payment to: 1ST RESPONDER NEWSPAPER 1 ARDMORE STREET NEW WINDSOR, NY 12553

Amount enclosed: ______

For Credit Card Orders: just fax this to (845) 534-0055 or subscribe online at

www.1RBN.com

TIVERTON FIRE DEPARTMENT

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

August, 2026

PAGE 17

MAINE

WOMEN IN EMERGENCY SERVICES If you have photos you would like to see in our Women in Firefighting feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

COURTESY OF AUGUSTA MAINE FIRE-RESCUE

The Augusta Fire Rescue honored FF/Paramedic Arsenault on passing the National Registry exam and finishing the paramedic training on May 7th. After completing the training and testing process, Arsenault was certified as a paramedic, according to officials.

Multiple Departments Assist at Augusta Fire Scene AUGUSTA, ME - The Augusta Fire Rescue praised many organizations, departments, and businesses on April 28th for their support during a Church Hill Road fire in April.

Chelsea Fire Department, Windsor Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department, Vassalboro Fire De- JUMP TO FILE# partment, Manches- 051426118 ter Fire Department, Belgrade Fire and Rescue Department, Sidney Fire Department, and Winslow Fire Department were among the departments offering support.

According to officials, the Gardiner and Winthrop fire departments helped with personnel relief, while the Hallowell and Manchester fire departments covered the city. A pumper for water operations was provided by the Togus Fire Department.

Additional support came from the Maine Forest Service, the Maine State Fire Marshal's Office, Augusta Public Works, Quirion Construction, Central Maine Power, and the Augusta Police Department.

Businesses including Twins Market, Angelz Behavioral Services, and Lisa’s also provided food and beverages for responders. Fire Chief Dave Groder additionally thanked on-duty and off-duty Augusta firefighters who continued operations into the following day.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

COURTESY OF AUGUSTA MAINE FIRE-RESCUE

THIS OLD HOUSE If you have photos you would like to see in our “This Old House” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

LEWISTON FIRE DEPARTMENT

Fast Interior Attack Knocks Down Lewiston House Fire, One Injured LEWISTON, ME - Firefighters quickly brought a structure fire under control after encountering heavy fire conditions inside a residence on Rachel Boulevard, May 7th. The first-arriving engine found a well-established fire in the kitchen and living room areas and initiated an aggressive interior attack. Crews were able to knock down the bulk of the fire within minutes, preventing further spread. Firefighters remained on scene conducting overhaul operations and checking for extension to ensure all remaining hot spots were extinguished. One occupant was transported to the hospital with burn injuries. Officials determined the fire originated in the kitchen and was accidental in nature.

CHUCK LOWE

The Pownal Volunteer Fire Department operates out of this aging two-bay station, which was constructed into the hillside many years ago.

PAGE 18

August, 2026

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

MAINE

MEMORIAL BOARD If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Memorial Board” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

DURHAM FIRE AND RESCUE COURTESY OF AUGUSTA MAINE FIRE-RESCUE

On the second anniversary of former Battalion Chief Guimond's death, Augusta Fire Rescue members paid tribute to him on May 8th. According to officials, Guimond's leadership and dedication to the fire service allowed him to serve the department and the City of Augusta for 34 years. Firefighters at the station continue to exchange stories and memories of Chief Guimond, according to department members who considered his enduring influence.

EMS If you have photos you would like to see in our “EMS” feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

Rollover Crash in Durham Leaves Vehicle Mangled but Driver Uninjured DURHAM, ME - On May 6th, Durham Fire & Rescue responded alongside the Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office to a serious rollover crash involving a vehicle that struck a utility pole on Newell Brook Road.

Emergency crews arrived to find the vehicle with significant

JUMP TO FILE #050626160

damage following the collision and rollover.

Despite the severity of the crash scene, the occupant escaped without injuries — an outcome officials

credited as a powerful reminder of the importance of wearing seatbelts.

The roadway remained partially closed while Central Maine Power crews assessed damage to the utility infrastructure and coordinated repair operations.

- DURHAM FIRE AND RESCUE

IN SERVICE If you have photos you would like to see in our In Service feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

COURTESY OF BANGOR MAINE FIRE DEPARTMENT

BANGOR, ME — April 28th — For the first time in the department's history, four rescues are functioning as emergency response units. The Bangor Maine Fire Department announced the opening of a fourth manned rescue unit. Located at Central Station on Main Street, the new unit, Rescue 2, is manned Tuesday through Friday during the day. The extension, according to officials, is a reaction to the city's rising EMS call traffic. New Fire Medic jobs, an EMSonly paramedic pilot program was created with assistance from Bangor Professional Firefighters IAFF Local 772 and the City of Bangor, staff Rescue 2. According to department heads, the new rescue unit will reinforce Bangor's fire-based EMS system for the community and enhance response coverage.

CHUCK LOWE

Naples Engine 5 operates with a 2023 HME Ahrens Fox 1871-W 1500/1000/30F.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

August, 2026

PAGE 19

MAINE

FIREFIGHTER PROFILES If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Firefighter Profiles” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

COURTESY OF BREWER FIRE DEPARTMENT

After obtaining their Fire Officer 1 credentials, Firefighters Metcalf and Maheux were acknowledged by the Brewer Fire Department.

According to department officials, the certification entails training in personnel supervision, leadership, incident management, communication, and fireground operations. For firefighters preparing for future leadership roles in emergency response operations, Fire Officer 1 qualification is seen as a crucial step.

COURTESY OF CHARLESTON FIRE DEPT

Firefighters Contain Third-Alarm Blaze at Levant Home LEVANT, ME - As part of a big mutual aid assignment, Charleston Fire Department personnel responded to a reported structure fire at 160 Wing Road in Levant on April 17th. Following reports of thick smoke emanating from the residence's eaves, Penobscot Regional Communications Center raised the incident to a second alarm. When emergency personnel arrived, they discovered a single-story home's back porch area was heavily burned, with flames spreading throughout the building and endangering an adjacent outbuilding. Later, while personnel battled to safeguard surrounding buildings, the fire was elevated to a third alarm. In around 40 minutes, firefighters from several agencies started water supply operations and contained the fire. The State Fire Marshal's Office is looking into the cause, although no injuries were reported.

LITTLE BIG GUYS If you have photos you would like to see in our Little Big Guys feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

COURTESY OF LEWISTON FIRE DEPARTMENT

Crews Quickly Contain Apartment Fire in Lewiston LEWISTON, ME - The Lewiston Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire on Bradley Street at 10:04 a.m. on May 10th. Within a minute of being dispatched, crews arrived and saw that a two-story apartment building's second floor was heavily burning. According to officials, firefighters used synchronized suppression efforts to put out the fire in less than 20 minutes. There were no reported injuries. The investigation is being aided by the Maine State Fire Marshal's Office. The agency also expressed gratitude to United Ambulance Service, the Lisbon Fire agency, the Auburn Fire Department, and Lewiston Auburn 911 Communications Center for their city coverage operations and on-site assistance.

CHUCK LOWE

Freeport Brush 1 is a 2012 Ford F-550 4x4 built in-house with a 250-gpm pump and a 400-gallon tank.

PAGE 20

August, 2026

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

MAINE

APPARATUS IN ACTION

MEMORIAL BOARD

If you have photos you would like to see in our Apparatus in Action feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Memorial Board” feature please upload them on our website www.1RBN.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

COURTESY OF BANGOR MAINE FIRE DEPARTMENT

The Bangor Maine Fire Department responded to the scene of a reported building fire, April 19th. On arrival, they immediately started suppression efforts after discovering smoke and flames within the building. During the response, crews also searched the structure, looked for fire extensions, and ventilated.

WEST BATH, ME — May 10th — West Bath Fire/Rescue announced the death of longstanding member and officer Mike Drake. Drake held a number of leadership positions and gained recognition for his dedication to firefighter education and training, according to department officials. He participated in training programs at FDIC International, taught members from departments throughout the region, and mentored firefighters in West Bath. In addition to offering their sympathies, firefighters and mutual aid organizations across Maine acknowledged Drake's enduring influence on firefighter safety, training, and operational preparedness.

COURTESY OF WEST BATH FIRE/RESCUE

COURTESY OF LINCOLN FIRE DEPARTMENT

CHELSEA MAINE FIRE DEPARTMENT

Chelsea Maine Fire Department units provided mutual aid assistance to Augusta Maine Fire-Rescue during a structure fire on Churchill Road in April. Crews operated for several hours before clearing the scene and returning to town. Tankers 2 and 6 played a critical role in the operation, moving nearly 60,000 gallons of water to support ongoing firefighting efforts in an area without sufficient hydrant coverage.

Crews Battle Early Morning House Fire in Lincoln, One Injured LINCOLN, ME - After a general alarm assignment was sent out for a reported building fire with potential residents inside on May 2nd, Lincoln Fire Department personnel arrived to a residential structure fire on Lee Road. When Engine 531 arrived early in the morning, they saw a single-story house with a significant fire. Firefighters started an interior fire attack after making sure there were no occupants inside. EMS personnel treated a burn victim who was later sent to Penobscot Valley Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Firefighters controlled the main body of fire and extended a second hoseline to prevent expansion into an adjoining garage. The placement outside the hydrant district necessitated the request for additional tanker and labor support.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

August, 2026

PAGE 21

MAINE

DRILLS/TRAINING To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

BREWER FIRE DEPARTMENT

Building Fire in Brewer Under Investigation CARIBOU FIRE & AMBULANCE DEPARTMENT

Caribou Fire & Ambulance Department firefighters Adam Chartier and Chad McCarthy recently attended the Propane Gas Association of New England (PGANE) Emergency Response Training Program at the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy. The program is designed to enhance firefighter and propane industry technician skills in managing propane-related incidents, including gas leaks, structure fires, and high-risk scenarios such as BLEVE events. The department extends appreciation to Daigle Oil Company for their continued partnership and support of advanced training opportunities that enhance responder readiness and help protect both the community and emergency personnel.

BREWER, ME - Brewer Fire Department C-Crew responded to the 500 block of South Main Street for a reported building fire, May 16th. On arrival, crews encountered heavy fire showing from the rear of the structure. An aggressive initial attack was immediately launched, with firefighters quickly bringing the fire under control. Once knockdown was achieved, units remained on scene to complete extensive overhaul operations and search for any remaining hot spots to prevent rekindle. No injuries were reported, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation. The department also expressed appreciation to mutual aid partners for their prompt and valuable assistance on scene.

SOUTH PORTLAND (MAINE) FIRE DEPARTMENT

Restaurant Fire Quickly Contained in South Portland CHELSEA MAINE FIRE DEPARTMENT

Members of the Chelsea Maine Fire Department and Togus Fire Department conducted a joint training session focused on water shuttle operations. Crews worked through cycling water, practicing drafting techniques, and exploring multiple methods of moving large volumes of water on the fireground.

SOUTH PORTLAND, ME - On May 25th, South Portland Fire Department responded to a fire alarm at Makoto Sushi Bar and Grill on Cottage Road, where crews encountered heavy smoke inside the occupied building. Firefighters located and extinguished a fire in the ceiling near the kitchen exhaust system. While no injuries were reported, the blaze caused significant damage to the kitchen and roof, forcing the business to close for repairs. Early alarm activation and a rapid response helped limit the damage. The cause remains under investigation and is not considered suspicious.

PAGE 22

August, 2026

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

MAINE

DRILLS/TRAINING To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

Firefighters with the Bar Harbor Fire Department conducted their annual confined space rescue training, focusing on operations in restricted and hazardous environments. Instruction was led by Specialty Response Solutions, Inc., providing crews with expertlevel guidance on technical rescue techniques. Training scenarios were enhanced by the use of tight, realistic spaces made available through the Jackson Lab, allowing members to operate in conditions similar to real-world incidents. This hands-on training reinforces the department’s readiness to safely and effectively perform rescues in complex confined space situations.

SEBAGO FIRE DEPT.

BAR HARBOR FIRE DEPARTMENT

SEBAGO FIRE DEPT.

Sebago Crews Contain Shed Fire with Extension to Woods SEBAGO, ME - Sebago Fire & EMS responded to a reported shed fire behind Sportsman’s Kitchen and Keg, with initial reports of fire spreading into the woods and threatening a nearby structure, May 24th. Arriving crews quickly worked to contain the shed fire while protecting the exposed building, limiting damage to the exterior. The fire was brought under control without further extension. The cause remains under investigation by the Maine State Fire Marshal’s Office. Mutual aid and station coverage were provided by several area departments.

BAR HARBOR FIRE DEPARTMENT

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

VERMONT

August, 2026

PAGE 23

Kent Ice Mustang Rescue Suit IC9001-03 Sizing: Universal Ice Commander Suit and Oversize Size: Universal Adult

WINHALL FIRE DEPARTMENT

Truck Rollover in Winhall Draws Multi-Department Response WINHALL, VT - On May 1st, firefighters from the Winhall Fire Department responded to a reported truck rollover in the area of Tollgate Road, with assistance from the Manchester Fire Department. Crews arrived on scene to assess the situation, secure the vehicle, and address any potential hazards associated with the rollover.

NRS Rapid Rescuer PFD

NRS Extreme Sar Dry Suit

Call Shannon for Best Pricing!

800-492-0779 or 603-436-2836

New England Marine & Industrial www.newenglandmarine.com

PAGE 24

August, 2026

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

VERMONT

DRILLS/TRAINING To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

BRIDGEWATER VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT - VERMONT

Multi-Alarm Brush Fire Burns Several Acres in Killington Area PROCTORSVILLE VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT

Proctorsville Vol. Fire Department members participated in a rope rescue awareness training session in preparation for an upcoming Rope Rescue Operations course hosted at PFD. The training focused on foundational concepts and readiness for more advanced technical rescue instruction as part of the Okemo Valley Tech Rescue program. Instruction was led with support from Ludlow Chief Whalen, along with Rope Rescue Technicians Jessy and Tom, who assisted with demonstrations and hands-on learning.

HARTFORD, VT - On April 29th, firefighters from the Bridgewater Volunteer Fire Department and multiple neighboring agencies responded to a rapidly spreading brush fire near Little Sherburne Road that ultimately burned approximately 3.5 acres in the Killington area.

As the fire expanded through wooded terrain, a second alarm was requested to bring in additional manpower and equipment from Woodstock Fire Rescue,

JUMP TO FILE #050626163

Killington Fire Rescue, Plymouth Fire Rescue, Pomfret Teago Fire, and Barnard Fire.

Crews worked together to quickly contain the advancing flames and prevent the wildfire from threatening nearby structures.

After bringing the main body of fire under control, firefighters

remained on scene conducting extensive mop-up operations and extinguishing hotspots to prevent rekindles.

Officials confirmed that no buildings were damaged and no injuries were reported during the incident.

Bridgewater Fire officials expressed appreciation to all mutual aid departments that assisted with the coordinated response.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

ACTION SHOTS If you have photos you would like to see in our “Action Shots” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

COURTESY OF POWNAL FIRE DEPARTMENT

The Pownal Fire Department held training on driver operations, hand line advancement, and pump operations on April 28th. According to officials, firefighters used the nicer weather to finish the practical training exercises meant to improve their fireground and apparatus operation skills.

MANCHESTER FIRE DEPARTMENT VT

In May, the Manchester Fire Department responded on mutual aid to East Dorset for a working structure fire located across from the entrance to Emerald Lake State Park. Crews worked alongside multiple mutual-aid departments to help bring the incident under control and support ongoing operations at the scene.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

August, 2026

PAGE 25

PAGE 26

August, 2026

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

SISTER in a BROTHERHOOD: Stories from My Life as a Female Firefighter ON THE BOOK SHELF

by John Malecky

SISTER in a BROTHERHOOD: Stories from My Life as a Female Firefighter

By Cindie Schooner-Ball Available from: FSP Books 433 Main Street, Suite 2A Hudson, MA 01749 1-800-522-8528 Email: support@fire-policeems.com www.fire-police-ems.com Price: $16.00 This is a soft covered book measuring 5 ½ by 8 ½ inches, with 201 pages. There is a prologue followed by 17 chapters, an epilogue, appendix, acknowledgements and finally a page about the author. It is a story about a woman born into poverty in Ohio who eventually became a captain in the Broward County, Florida Fire-Rescue Department.

The book starts out from her childhood and goes right through to her retirement and beyond. She got appointed in 1987. This book in my opinion is written in a completely honest way. It does not in any way look to compete women against men in the fire service. It

simply consists of memoirs about her years in service riding in many different stations and various different neighborhoods, from slow to extremely busy with fires, EMS and other emergencies. While I realize that memoirs are recollections of a person’s career with many experiences of calls which a potential reader might perceive as repetitious, I can assure you that although it may seem that way, each involves human beings and sometimes animals that are loved by others. A serious and fatal accident for instance is still a tragedy for the person or animal in each particular incident no matter how many we may have read about in other books. This book deals with calls that were tragic, near tragic, or otherwise. Some will stay with a responder mentally for years because we empathize with the families and friends of those unfortunate individuals and can imagine if it happened to one of our families or friends. In fact, this book and ones like it should be read by the general public just to educate them to the fact that this work is not always pleasing. Much of the book also relates to a female doing a job amongst males and the attitudes that had to be dealt with, especially at the beginning. Many of these changed when it was proven that a female could do the job in a professional way. The price is reasonable and the content educational, especially for a woman considering emergency service as a career.

VERMONT

PROCTORSVILLE VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT

Two Hospitalized After Two-Vehicle Crash at Windsor Intersection WINDSOR, VT - On May 1st, Proctorsville Volunteer Fire Department responded to a two-vehicle crash at the VT Route 103/131 intersection involving reported injuries and unknown hazards.

E1 and E2 arrived with 11 responders and immediately began patient care and scene stabilization.

JUMP TO FILE #050626160

Firefighters assisted two patients, contained leaking fluids from both vehicles, and managed traffic control through the incident area.

Ludlow Ambulance transported

both patients to Springfield Hospital for further evaluation and treatment.

Vermont State Police investigated the crash, and both vehicles were removed from the scene by Benny’s Towing.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

PROCTORSVILLE VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

August, 2026

PAGE 27

VERMONT

Bystanders in Barre City Rescue Children as Firefighters Stop Car Fire from Reaching Building BARRE CITY, VT - Quickthinking bystanders rescued two children from a burning vehicle before firefighters arrived to extinguish the fire and prevent it from spreading to a nearby structure on April 26th.

Fire crews responded to a reported vehicle fire on North Main Street and found a car heavily involved in flames, parked just feet from a building. Firefighters rapidly knocked down the blaze, stopping it from extending to the structure.

Investigators determined that two children, ages 4 and 7, were secured in child safety seats inside the

JUMP TO FILE #051026102

vehicle when the fire began.

Bystanders who noticed smoke coming from the car acted immediately, entering the vehicle and safely removing both children before conditions worsened.

Officials credited the bystanders’ swift and decisive actions with likely preventing serious injuries, highlighting the critical role of public awareness and quick response in emergency situations.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

DRILLS/TRAINING To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

COURTESY OF CITY OF RUTLAND FIRE DEPARTMENT

Rutland Fire Department Handles Structure and Brush Fires RUTLAND, VT - During a busy afternoon on May 5th, the City of Rutland Fire Department responded to three different fire incidents: a brush fire in Mendon, a mutual aid wildland response, and a structure fire. When crews first got to Terrill Street, they discovered fire inside a wall on the outside of a house. The fire was swiftly contained by firefighters, limiting damage and preserving occupancy in all four flats. There were no reported injuries. Later, while other crews dealt with a rapidly developing brush fire in Mendon caused by a downed power line, additional firefighters responded mutual aid to a wildland fire in Proctor using forestry equipment and a UTV. Before the fire spread more than a quarter of an acre, firefighters put it out.

DRILLS/TRAINING To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

COURTESY OF STARKSBORO VOL. FIRE DEPARTMENT

During a departmental exercise on April 30th, Starksboro Volunteer Fire Department members received training on new vehicle extrication equipment. According to officials, firefighters practiced using spreaders and cutters that run on batteries and are intended to free trapped patients from cars after collisions. The department explained that the new tools replace older hydraulic equipment, eliminating the need for hoses and pumps while improving mobility and ease of operation during rescues.

COURTESY OF SOUTH BURLINGTON FIRE - IAFF LOCAL 3671

Members of South Burlington Fire IAFF Local 3671 recently trained on rescuing patients trapped beneath cars and heavy objects. Firefighters acted out scenarios in which victims were pinned beneath a big truck and under concrete using a training dummy. According to officials, during the drills, teams used hydraulic rescue equipment, cribbing, and high-pressure air bags while simulating emergency medical services.

PAGE 28

August, 2026

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

NEW HAMPSHIRE

LITTLE BIG GUYS If you have photos you would like to see in our Little Big Guys feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

COURTESY OF CAMPTON-THORNTON FIRE RESCUE

CHUCK LOWE

Sandwich Forestry 1 is a 2000 Ford F-550 4x4 250/250. This is the chassis of the former Rescue 1 that has been repurposed.

CHUCK LOWE

Richmond operates this 2003 Ford F-550/Superior E-One 1000/350/35F as Brush 1.

CHUCK LOWE

Wakefield Forestry 1 is a 2004 Ford F-550/Protech 250/300.

Thornton House Fire Contained During Severe Thunderstorm CAMPTON, NH - Members of Campton-Thornton Fire Rescue and many mutual aid agencies responded to a reported structure fire on Morrill Lane in Thornton during a strong rainstorm at around 9 p.m. on JUMP TO FILE# June 6th.

A caller reported 060826111 a kitchen fire, according to dispatchers. Heavy rain, high gusts, lightning, and storm-related road bottlenecks from fallen trees were among the challenges faced by responding teams. Firefighters sought a second alarm for more personnel and equipment after discovering a two-story log cabin with a significant fire.

As the crew of Engine 1 advanced a handline inside the building, they encountered intense heat and a strong fire in the kitchen.

While a second hoseline was deployed to put out flames on a covered porch, firefighters swiftly put out the main body of fire. During the first attack, crews used fewer than 1,000 gallons of water. After conducting a search, Plymouth FireRescue firefighters verified that all residents and dogs had safely fled.

Although the fire was put out, the house was deemed unusable due to severe water and smoke damage.

There were no reported injuries.

Twelve other storm-related calls involving fallen trees and wires were handled by mutual assistance departments while responders worked at the fire scene.

Fire Chief Daniel Defosses credited the occupants for recognizing the fire was beyond their ability to control, evacuating the home, and calling 911 promptly.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

COURTESY OF CAMPTON-THORNTON FIRE RESCUE

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

August, 2026

PAGE 29

PAGE 30

August, 2026

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

NEW HAMPSHIRE

CAMPTON-THORNTON FIRE RESCUE

PATRICK KERRIGAN

CAMPTON-THORNTON FIRE RESCUE

Tower Truck Assists in High-Angle Rescue of Bear Cub in Campton-Thornton CAMPTON, NH - CamptonThornton Fire Rescue and the Campton Police Department assisted New Hampshire Fish and Game biologists with the rescue of a tranquilized bear cub stranded high in a tree on May 7th.

Biologists had been called after reports that two cubs had been without their mother for several days. After assessing the situation, officials determined intervention was necessary for the cubs’ health.

Both cubs were tranquilized, and one was successfully retrieved, but the second remained approximately 65-feet up and out of reach.

Fire crews responded while clearing another call and determined specialized equipment would be re-

JUMP TO FILE #050926140

quired for a safe rescue.

A tower truck from the Waterville Valley Fire Department was requested and quickly arrived on scene. Using the tower ladder, personnel from Waterville Valley, along with a Fish and Game biologist, were able to access the cub and safely remove it from the tree.

The cub was brought to the ground and reunited with its sibling before both were secured for transport to a rehabilitation facility.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

PATRICK KERRIGAN

Nashua Crews Contain Multi-Family Dwelling Fire NASHUA, NH - Nashua firefighters arrived to find fire showing from the rear of a multi-family dwelling on Morgan St. on 5/31/26. Companies made an aggressive interior attack and had the fire knocked down in a short amount of time while the Ladder Companies performed ventilation and searches.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

August, 2026

PAGE 31

NEW HAMPSHIRE

MEMORIAL BOARD If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Memorial Board” feature please upload them on our website www.1RBN.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

HANOVER NH FIRE DEPARTMENT

Propane Leak Mitigated in Hanover HANOVER, NH - Hanover Car 2, Engine 3, and Engine 6, staffed by C Shift along with recalled off-duty personnel, responded to a propane leak incident on May 18th. Upon arrival, crews confirmed an actively venting propane tank and initiated protective measures to maintain scene safety. A handline was promptly deployed to cool the tank and reduce the risk of escalation while units secured the area and maintained control of the incident. Operations continued in coordination with the incoming propane company, which ultimately completed the safe transfer of product and brought the situation under control.

OLD & NEW

On May 18th, members of Andover Emergency Services laid 72 flags on the graves of past members of the Citizens Fire Company, Andover Fire Department, East Andover Fire Department, and Andover Rescue Squad. The yearly homage, according to officials, commemorates fallen firefighters and EMS personnel for their contributions to the community and the country. The purpose of the ceremony is to honor former members and acknowledge their commitment to public service. Jeffrey Miller, an EMS member, was also acknowledged by the department for his diligent work in maintaining an accurate list of historical individuals by examining department records and collaborating with both present and former members.

COURTESY OF ANDOVER, NH EMERGENCY SERVICES

If you have photos you would like to see in our “Old & New” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

Bethlehem upgraded its fleet with a 2025 International HV/E-One 1500/1000 that operates as Engine 2. This apparatus replaces a 2005 Freightliner FL80/Salisbury/American Eagle/E-One 1000/1000.

New Bethlehem Engine 2

CHUCK LOWE COURTESY OF DOVER PROFESSIONAL FIRE OFFICERS

Quick Interior Attack Stops House Fire in Dover Former Bethlehem Engine 2

CHUCK LOWE

DOVER, NH - On May 22nd, firefighters from the Dover Fire Department responded to a reported house fire. On arrival, crews discovered that the two-story house was in smoke and quickly set up handlines for an interior attack. While additional personnel assisted with operations outside, firefighters inspected the building, looked for fire extensions, and ventilated. After the fire was contained, firefighters stayed on scene to finish overhaul operations and make sure there were no hot spots left.

PAGE 32

August, 2026

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

NEW HAMPSHIRE

COURTESY OF EAST KINGSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT

East Kingston Crews Respond to Serious Vehicle Crash EAST KINGSTON, NH - With help from Plaistow ALS, Kensington Fire, and the East Kingston Police Department, the East Kingston Fire Department responded to a major singlevehicle collision near 30 East Road on May 15th. Firefighters helped with patient care and scene operations after arriving on scene in less than two minutes. The car's lone occupant was taken to Portsmouth Regional Hospital with Plaistow ALS providers on board.

NORTH WALPOLE FIRE & RESCUE DEPT.

North Walpole Fire & Rescue Responds to Multiple Emergencies Including Working House Fire and Medical Calls NORTH WALPOLE, NH - In May, North Walpole Fire & Rescue Department had a busy operational period responding to multiple incidents across the region, including fire coverage, structural fire response, and emergency medical calls. Crews were initially dispatched to provide station coverage in support of ongoing brush fire operations in Claremont. They were later called to a reported house fire in Charlestown, where arriving units encountered heavy fire conditions and assisted with fire attack operations as the incident escalated to a multi-alarm response. In addition to fireground activity, personnel also handled multiple medical emergencies.

IN SERVICE If you have photos you would like to see in our In Service feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

GOFFSTOWN FIRE DEPARTMENT

Driver Extricated Following Two-Vehicle Crash at Goffstown Intersection GOFFSTOWN, NH - Firefighters responded to a two-vehicle collision at the intersection of Tower Lane and Goffstown Back Road on June 16th, where one occupant was found trapped inside a vehicle upon arrival. Crews stabilized the vehicle and used hydraulic extrication tools to safely free the patient. The individual sustained serious injuries and received treatment on scene before being transported to a local trauma center for further care.

CHUCK LOWE

Amherst operates this 2024 Spartan MetroStar LFD/Toyne 1500/1000 as Engine 5.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

August, 2026

PAGE 33

NEW HAMPSHIRE

VEHICLE NEWS

CHICHESTER FIRE DEPARTMENT

CHUCK LOWE

Hindale Rescue 1 was built by Unruh in 2025, utilizing a 2013 GMC chassis.

Crews Extricate Occupants from Rollover Crash in Chichester CHICHESTER, NH - On May 19th, Chichester Fire-Rescue responded to a two-vehicle collision on Dover Road (NH Route 4), where one vehicle came to rest on its side in a runoff ditch. Firefighters used hydraulic rescue tools to extricate three occupants from the overturned vehicle.

Mutual aid assistance was provided by Epsom, Concord, and Loudon, along with support from local police agencies and NHDOT for traffic control. Pembroke Ambulance was also dispatched but later canceled when additional EMS resources were not needed.

PAGE 34

August, 2026

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

NEW HAMPSHIRE

DRILLS/TRAINING To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

HANOVER NH FIRE DEPARTMENT

Quick Response Contains Fire at Dartmouth College HANOVER, NH - On May 26th, the Hanover Fire Department responded to a fire alarm activation on the campus of Dartmouth College after reports of smoke on the 5th floor. Upon arrival, crews confirmed the presence of smoke and requested a general alarm to bring additional resources to the scene. Firefighters quickly located the source—a fire inside an autoclave—and were able to extinguish it promptly.

Thanks to the swift actions of responding crews, the fire was contained with only minor damage.

CITY OF MANCHESTER, NH FIRE DEPARTMENT

Manchester Fire Department crews came together for a focused forcible entry training at Station 4, bringing members from Truck 7, Truck 6, and Engine 6. The session centered on garage door forcible entry techniques, with firefighters practicing coordinated tool work, cutting operations, and methods to gain efficient access during emergency incidents.

COURTESY OF FARMINGTON NH FIRE DEPARTMENT

Farmington Fire Department Controls Trash Load Fire CHICHESTER FIRE DEPARTMENT

FARMINGTON, NH - The Farmington NH Fire Department responded to a trash truck fire close to the former fire station on May 5th. In order to stop the fire from spreading, the driver promptly dumped the blazing debris into a nearby parking lot, around 20-feet from a building, according to the department. Firefighters used hose lines to contain and put out the fire after discovering that the debris pile was strongly involved. The Farmington Department of Public Works provided equipment to disperse and overhaul the debris. No injuries were reported, and the fire was eventually deemed under control.

Chichester Fire-Rescue conducted a regional water supply drill focused on establishing and maintaining a continuous fire flow—an essential capability in rural firefighting operations. The training brought together mutual aid partners from Allenstown, Barnstead, Epsom, Loudon, Northwood, and Pittsfield, along with support from the Capital Area Fire Mutual Aid Compact, reinforcing coordination and teamwork during large-scale incidents.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

August, 2026

PAGE 35

CONNECTICUT

IN SERVICE If you have photos you would like to see in our In Service feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

NORWALK FIRE DEPT.

Three-Alarm Fire Displaces Multiple Families on Ely Avenue in Norwalk NORWALK, CT — The Norwalk Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 187 Ely Avenue on Saturday, June 13th, at 4:22 p.m.

The building involved was a 2 1/2-story multi-family residence.

While responding, fire companies observed a significant column of smoke visible from several blocks away. Upon arrival, Car 2 reported heavy fire showing from the side and rear of the structure, with smoke pushing from all floors.

Due to the volume of fire and initial reports of possible trapped occupants, a third alarm was transmitted, bringing additional personnel and resources to the scene.

Engine 5 stretched the initial attack line to the rear of the building, where the main body of fire was located. Conditions required a second hoseline to immediately back up the initial attack crew, while a third hoseline was advanced through the front entrance to support interior operations. Truck 2 and Rescue Com-

JUMP TO FILE #061626139

pany personnel conducted primary search operations while Truck 1 and other companies performed ventilation and coordinated fireground tasks.

During the incident, firefighters encountered challenges with the initial hydrant supplying Engine 5. Engine 4 secured a secondary hydrant and supplemented the water supply to support ongoing fire attack operations.

Prior to the arrival of fire department personnel, a 14-year-old female occupant escaped the building by jumping from a second-floor window. She was transported to the hospital for evaluation and treatment. The victim's mother was assisted out of the building by a neighboring resident using a ladder before the fire department arrived.

Firefighters rescued one dog from the first floor of the residence.

A second dog escaped the structure with occupants prior to the arrival of emergency personnel.

A total of 13 occupants were displaced by the fire. The American Red Cross is assisting those affected.

Mutual aid assistance was provided by neighboring departments.

Fire companies from Stamford and New Canaan responded to the scene, while additional companies from Rowayton, Westport, and Fairfield assisted with citywide coverage during the incident.

Norwalk Police closed Ely Avenue to assist with fireground operations, while Norwalk EMS stood by on scene to provide medical care and firefighter rehabilitation. Two firefighters were evaluated for heatrelated exhaustion, and one firefighter was transported to Norwalk Hospital for treatment.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Norwalk Fire Marshal's Office.

CHUCK LOWE

Woodstock: Muddy Brook FD operates a 2024 Freightliner 114SD 6x4/Spartan ER 1500/3500 as Tanker 175.

CHUCK LOWE

Woodstock runs a 2024 Kenworth T880/Fouts Bros 1500/4000 as Tanker 176.

- NORWALK FIRE DEPT.

Read more features from around New England online.

Visit 1st Responder News on the web at www.1RBN.com NORWALK FIRE DEPT.

PAGE 36

August, 2026

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

CONNECTICUT

BOTSFORD FIRE RESCUE

Chimney Fire Contained in Botsford BOTSFORD, CT - Botsford Fire Rescue responded to a reported chimney fire in its first-due area on April 8th at 8:55 p.m. Additionally, the Sandy Hook Volunteer Fire and Rescue and Newtown Hook and Ladder Company No. 1 offered mutual aid. According to officials, the fire stayed inside the chimney and did not spread inside the house.

COURTESY OF MILFORD FIRE DEPARTMENT

Milford Fire Department Responds to Backyard Shed Fire MILFORD, CT - A shed fire behind a house on Snow Apple Lane prompted the Milford Fire Department to respond on April 11th. When firefighters arrived, they discovered that the homeowner was controlling the fire with a garden hose until help arrived. Crews extended a 3-inch hose line to support suppression operations because of the lengthy driveway that led to the back of the property. Firefighters swiftly confined the fire, put out any hot spots that remained, and looked for extensions in the surrounding areas. There were no reported injuries. According to fire officials, the shed area was the only place affected by the fire, and nearby structures were safe.

FUTURE FIRST RESPONDERS If you have photos you would like to see in our “Future First Responders” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

BOTSFORD FIRE RESCUE

Botsford Fire Assists Monroe Crews at Garage and Barn Fire BOTSFORD, CT - Botsford Fire Rescue was requested to provide mutual aid to the Town of Monroe for a working fire involving a detached garage and barn on May 6th. Due to the incident’s close proximity to the town line in Stepney Fire’s first-due area, a coordinated tanker response was initiated.

Botsford responded with a tanker and requested additional support from Dodgingtown Fire Company, which also deployed a tanker to the scene. Tankers 559 and 229 from Newtown were assigned to cover the response, ensuring an adequate water supply for ongoing fire suppression operations.

COURTESY OF SHELTON FIRE DEPARTMENT

Students in Shelton High School's firefighting program received training on wildland firefighting techniques and tools from Shelton Fire Department personnel on May 4th. The tactics and equipment employed in wildland fire situations were the main topic of discussion. According to officials, the kids have demonstrated good collaboration abilities throughout training exercises and substantial improvement over the academic year.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

August, 2026

PAGE 37

CONNECTICUT

SALEM FIRE

Car Drives into Salem Dunkin Donuts SALEM, CT - At 4:45 p.m. on May 11th, the Salem and Gardner Lake Fire Departments were dispatched to Dunkin’ Donuts, 1 New London Road, for a car into the building. Car 21 arrived at 4:49 p.m. with a car into the front corner of the store causing moderate damage. Engine 121 and Rescue 127 secured the vehicle and assessed the structure, while Ambulance 527 evaluated the driver. The building official and health department were notified.

COURTESY OF EAST PUTNAM FIRE DEPARTMENT

Driver Transported After Vehicle Hits Hydrant in East Putnam EAST PUTNAM, CT - The East Putnam Fire Department, Putnam EMS, a QV Medic unit, and the Connecticut State Police responded to a single-vehicle rollover incident on Park Road at around 6:01 p.m. on April 19th.

Dispatchers found the injuries fit air medical standards while personnel were en route, however the weather prevented the helicopters

JUMP TO FILE #051226106

from LIFESTAR and LifeFlight from flying, When firefighters arrived, they discovered a severely damaged car lying on a fire hydrant, with the driver still inside but uninjured.

After the driver's injuries were

deemed non-life-threatening, Putnam EMS transported him to UMass Memorial Medical Center.

The vehicle was removed by Cargill Towing, allowing Putnam WPCA crews to inspect the hydrant for damage. State Police are investigating the crash.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

WHERE ARE THEY NOW? If you have photos you would like to see in our Where are they Now? feature please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

COURTESY OF MILFORD FIRE DEPARTMENT

Basement Fire Contained at Milford Residence MILFORD, CT - The Milford Fire Department responded to a basement fire at a house on Milford Hunt Lane, May 4th.

When Engine 7 arrived first, they saw smoke rising from the building. The homeowner confirmed that everyone had safely evacuated the home, and that there was a fire in the basement. After advancing a hose line through the garage, the fire was discovered in what looked to be a utility closet. While more units conducted main searches and positioned ladders throughout the house during operations, the fire was quickly put out. There were no known injuries.

CHUCK LOWE

The Hartford County Fire Academy operates a 1994 International-S/Ranger heavy rescue that served as Simsbury Rescue 15 until 2017.

PAGE 38

August, 2026

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

CONNECTICUT

HONORS & PROMOTIONS If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Honors & Promotions” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

COURTESY OF WATERFORD FIRE DEPARTMENT

On April 25th, members of the Waterford Fire Department joined the Waterford Police Department, Waterford Emergency Communications, and Waterford Ambulance Service in recognizing emergency personnel involved in a lifesaving industrial rescue the previous month. Fire department personnel receiving Unit Citations included FF/EMT Peter Ewing, FF/EMT Kyle Clifton, and FF/EMT Alex Blais. Officials said members of the community were able to meet and shake hands with the individual whose life was saved during the incident.

OLD & NEW If you have photos you would like to see in our “Old & New” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

Broad Brook recently placed their new ET139 into service, a 2025 Seagrave Marauder 2000/2500/20F. This rig replaced a 2004 HME/Central States 1500/2000/60F.

BBFD's new ET139

CHUCK LOWE

Car Crashes into Norwalk Apartment Building, Displacing Four Residents NORWALK, CT - The Norwalk Fire Department responded to a motor vehicle accident involving a passenger car and an occupied multi-residential building at 2 North Taylor Avenue just after 3:00 p.m. on the afternoon of Wednesday, May 6, 2026. A total of 16 firefighters responded to the incident with an engine, ladder, rescue, and command staff.

Upon arrival, firefighters found that the vehicle had left the roadway, traveled over a stone wall, and struck the building. A teenage occupant was in the impacted bedroom and narrowly escaped injury. The driver was treated and transported to Norwalk Hospital with a minor injury. One apartment was posted unfit for occupancy by the Building Department, displacing four residents who were assisted by the American Red Cross.

NORWALK FIRE DEPT.

Basement Fire Damages MultiFamily Home in Ansonia ANSONIA, CT - Following complaints of a smoke condition in the neighborhood on May 2nd, firefighters responded to Clark Street.

When Deputy Chief DeLucia arrived, he saw a multi-family home with a basement fire and a lot of smoke. The building's balloon-frame design caused the fire to spread quickly into hidden areas. While crews finished substantial overhaul operations, firefighters from Ansonia and Derby battled to contain the fire. Seymour and Oxford mutual aid departments also provided support and suppression assistance. During the event, no injuries were reported. The Ansonia incident Marshal's Office is looking into what caused the fire.

COURTESY OF EAGLE HOSE & HOOK & LADDER CO. # 6

BBFD former ET139

CHUCK LOWE

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

Is it really a bad day?

Chaplain’s Corner Didymus McHugh

Things happen and we may look at things and say that our day is going down the tubes, just because it is not going our way. But is it?

I had to go to a conference, and I asked a friend if I could get a ride with him. (I know that when I go someplace, I have my own way of traveling and my own timetable. I usually like arriving early.)

He told me what time he wanted to leave, which meant that we were going to arrive late. Well, I was able to understand. The nurse which cares for his son with disabilities arrived late. He mentioned he had a problem with his vehicle, and I was able to take care of it right away because I had the same challenge with my vehicle. Then we stopped for fuel.

We got busy talking about a project that he was putting together, and I had to remind him which exit to take. We were still talking, another exit was coming, and he almost missed it. A woman would not let him get near the exit, so we took another exit. As we were looking for our way, I noticed that I might be in the area where I used to spend some time. The directions made us make a turn and we went past the exact place and brought back memories. We continued to our destiny and found out that the route was probably faster into the back entrance of where we had to go.

When we arrived, I had a chance to see some friends that I had not seen for years. I sat in the back at the last table. I was not so concerned about talking with people, so I sat at a table. I had no idea what impact that decision would have on me. At the next table, about three or four feet from me was a law enforcement K-9 handler. His partner, a 20-month yellow lab,

came to me and put his head near me. I had the opportunity to pet him on the head, and he leaned into me so that I could really pet him all over. I do not know what the dog sensed, but he stayed near me for a good part of the day. Even a few times in the morning, the dog decided to put his paws on my shoulder and lick my face. (Note: the speaker was able to see what was going on with the dog and she stumbled over part of her presentation.) The dog was part of the crisis team and later went and visited some other people but kept coming back to me. During the afternoon, West laid down by my feet.

I used to have a dog, but it was over twenty years since I had real quality time with a dog. West reminded me how much I needed the interaction with animals and the warmth that a dog brings.

When we left the event, the mapping system took us a different way than we expected but I saw that I already had the day off and I would not let it or the traffic bother me, after all I was not driving.

Many things did not go the way that we expected.

We need to realize that just because our day did not go the way that we wanted it to go, does not necessarily mean that it was a bad day. On this day, we found a way that was faster to get where we were going and, on the way back, my friend and I had a good conversation and of course I could not forget what West brought to me. He showed me how precious time with an animal can be and how much they are dialed into the emotions of people around them.

He also reminded me that I may need to get another dog, as companion and therapist.

There are many times that some people discount the true benefit of having time with animals can really benefit not only people but also animals. You can easily research all the benefits of the interaction between humans and animals. They also have animal assisted therapy. You may not need to have a therapy or service animal but may just want to spend time with a furry friend who loves.

I know that by lunch time, I was

covered in dog hair and felt so much better than I have for a long time.

Is it really a bad day? How are you looking at it? What are you expecting? There are some people that have spent their entire life sucking on a lemon and they experience nothing but sour days. Give yourself permission to expect a good day and look at the situation through new glasses and look for the positive.

I remember John Maxwell telling the story that a boy living on a farm. The mother would come into the boy's room to wake him up. One day the mother came in and said, "Good morning, it's going to be a beautiful day". The boy said that it was going to be a horrible day. The mother let the boy go back to sleep.

The boy got up and went to the kitchen and expected breakfast. The mother indicated that breakfast was served at the time when the boy refused to get up. The mother indicated that since the boy indicated that it was going to be a horrible day, it was her job to make sure that the boy got exactly what he expected, a horrible day. And she sent him back to bed, no television, no radio, nothing, just sleep. Since the boy would normally be at school, the boy did not get any lunch. The boy was just supposed to sleep and not allowed to do anything. The next day, before the mother came in to wake him up, the boy was up, washed, dressed and waiting for his mother. The mother said, "Good morning, it's going to be a good day." The boy said, "Good morning, it's going to be a great day,” and the boy made sure that it was a great day and appreciated everything that he had.

You usually get what you expect, when you have control of how you view events in your life.

August, 2026

PAGE 39

CONNECTICUT

MONROE VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT

Storage Barn Destroyed in Monroe Fire MONROE, CT - The Monroe Volunteer Fire Department responded with Engines 75, 73, and 72, along with Chiefs 701 and 702, to a fully involved storage barn fire on Judd Road, May 7th. Crews operated alongside Stepney Fire Department, with tanker support provided by Stevenson Fire Department and Newtown Fire Department. Firefighters worked collaboratively to bring the intense blaze under control, utilizing coordinated suppression efforts and water supply operations.

PATCH OF THE MONTH If you have photos you would like to see in our “Patch of the month “feature please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

Have a great day.

Stay safe, Didymus McHugh didymus-mchugh.com

Read more features from all of our columnists online. Visit 1st Responder News on the web at www.1RBN.com

EUGENE WEBER JR.

This patch belongs to the Noroton Heights Fire Department, located in Fairfield County, CT.

PAGE 40

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

August, 2026

CONNECTICUT

SOUTH WINDSOR FIRE DEPARTMENT

COLCHESTER FIRE

Colchester Crash with Entrapment COLCHESTER, CT - At 10:57 a.m. on Thursday, 5/14/26 the Colchester Fire Department with Medic 3 and the Colchester Police were dispatched to Middletown Road at Skinner Road for a car accident with entrapment. Car 28 arrived at 11:02 a.m. with a truck that had sideswiped an object on a tractor trailer with the driver trapped. Engines 1 & 2 with Rescue 1 performed the extrication while Ambulance 528 performed patient care. Ambulance 528 transported ALS to Hartford Hospital.

Mattress Fire Quickly Contained at South Windsor Recycling Facility SOUTH WINDSOR, CT South Windsor firefighters responded to a reported structure fire at Murphy Road Recycling, located at 600/602 Nutmeg Road North (rear building of USA All American Waste), May 9th.

Crews arrived within minutes and located a mattress burning on top of a large pile of refuse inside

JUMP TO FILE #051426147

the structure. The fire was quickly knocked down with no extension to the building.

Firefighters deployed two handlines to complete extensive overhaul operations and ensure all hot

spots were fully extinguished.

A total of over 20 personnel responded, including Engines 3, 4, and 6, Tower 1, FP9, and Car 10.

The South Windsor Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the origin and cause of the fire.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

VEHICLE NEWS

STILL IN SERVICE If you have photos you would like to see in our “Still in Service” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

FOXON VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY

CHUCK LOWE

East Haven, CT Engine 5, a 2001 American LaFrance 1250-gpm pump, 750-gallon tank, is assigned to the Foxon Volunteer Fire Company.

Windsor Locks Rescue 4 has returned to service with a 2025 Seagrave Marauder heavy rescue. The body from their 1997 Saulsbury apparatus, which was decommissioned following an accident, was remounted on the new chassis.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

August, 2026

PAGE 41

PAGE 42

August, 2026

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

CONNECTICUT

Norwalk Firefighters Rescue Trapped Motorcyclist After I-95 Crash

COURTESY OF MORRIS FIRE COMPANY

Jeep Collides with Tree on Route 61 in Morris MORRIS, CT - Litchfield County Dispatch sent the Morris Fire Company to an automatic crash detection alert on Route 61 near County Road and Alain White Road on May 3rd at 10:09 p.m. When crews arrived, they discovered a Jeep Wrangler that had collided with a tree on the south side of the road and had significant front-end damage. One patient with severe injuries was sent to Waterbury Hospital by Litchfield Ambulance for medical attention.

NORWALK, CT - The Norwalk Fire Department responded to a serious motor vehicle accident on Interstate 95 southbound between exits 14 and 13 late Friday night, May 8, 2026, at approximately 11:29 p.m. Initial dispatch reports indicated the crash involved a motorcycle and SUV, with possible entrapment.

Upon arrival, rescue personnel lo- JUMP TO FILE# cated a motorcycle 051226136 and its operator pinned beneath an SUV. Firefighters utilized rapid-deploy lifting equipment and shoring techniques to stabilize and raise the vehicle, allowing crews to extricate the trapped motorcyclist. Fire department personnel transferred primary patient care to Norwalk Hospital EMS and continued assisting with treatment while en route to Norwalk Hospital.

The rescue operation was carried out by Norwalk Fire Department Rescue 2, Engine 2, Tac 1, command staff personnel, and the Darien Fire Department. The condition of the patient has not been released at this time. The crash remains under investigation by the Connecticut State Police.

NORWALK FIRE DEPT.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

COURTESY OF OXFORD CENTER VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY

Rescue 44 Assists at SingleCar Accident in Oxford OXFORD, CT - After an automatic crash notice on Towner Road was upgraded to a reported single-vehicle collision with the car off the road, the Oxford Center Volunteer Fire Company went to the scene on May 4th. Car 1, Engine 41, Rescue 44, Oxford Emergency Medical Services, and the Oxford Police Department were among the units that responded. EMS transported one occupant to a nearby hospital for assessment.

NORWICH FIRE

Car Fire Quickly Knocked Down in Norwich NORWICH, CT - At 2:33 p.m. on Friday, 5/8/26 the East Great Plain Fire Department with Norwich's Engine 3 and Battalion 1 were dispatched to 20 Waldo Road for a car fire. Q135 (fire marshal) arrived at 2:35 p.m. reporting an active car fire. Engine 3 stretched a 1.75" hose line and knocked the fire with tank water. The Norwich Fire Marshal's Office is investigating.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

August, 2026

PAGE 43

CONNECTICUT

DRILLS/TRAINING To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

COURTESY OF NAUGATUCK FIRE DEPARTMENT

Naugatuck Fire Department Responds to Multiple Brush Fires COURTESY OF MIDDLEBURY VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT

A Monday night training session on pump operations and hose line advancement was held by the Middlebury Volunteer Fire Department.

NAUGATUCK, CT - During a period of dry and windy weather in April, the Naugatuck Fire Department responded to one open burn event and six uncontained brush and grass fires. One fire, according to officials, damaged a house's corner, while another destroyed two cars and a four-car garage. Three of the fires, including the ones that resulted in prop-

JUMP TO FILE #051126149

erty damage, were thought to be started by discarded cigarettes, according to investigators.

One fire is still being investigated, and another was linked to brush burning by a property owner. Residents were cautioned

by department officials that burning trash, grass, leaves, or brush is not allowed. Firefighters observed that tiny ignition sources, such as discarded cigarette butts and outdoor burning activities, can quickly spread fires due to dry foliage, low humidity, and windy circumstances.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

STILL IN SERVICE If you have photos you would like to see in our “Still in Service” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

COURTESY OF EAST KILLINGLY FIRE DEPARTMENT

East Killingly Fire Department personnel trained on vehicle stabilization and extrication techniques on April 20th. Crews trained using the right rescue equipment and methods to remove patients and secure vehicles in various circumstances.

FOXON VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY

East Haven, CT Rescue 3, a 2001 Ford with a remounted 1979 Pierce body, is assigned to the Foxon Volunteer Fire Company.

PAGE 44

August, 2026

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

CONNECTICUT

Burlington Crews Handle House Fire and Separate Crash on South Main Street BURLINGTON, CT - Burlington EMS and the Burlington Volunteer Fire Department responded to a residential building fire on Sherman Drive on April 10th. The Bristol Fire Department, Canton Fire and EMS Department, Harwinton Volunteer Fire Department, and Tunxis Hose Com- JUMP TO FILE# pany No. 1 were 051126102 among the mutual aid organizations engaged on the working fire assignment.

For assessment and treatment of smoke inhalation, one person was taken to a nearby hospital. A dog inside the house passed away from smoke inhalation, according to officials.

While crews remained at the fire scene, additional Burlington Fire and EMS personnel, including the department’s second ambulance, responded with assistance from the Harwinton West Side Volunteer Fire Department to a separate motor vehicle accident involving a vehicle into a utility pole on South Main Street.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM COURTESY OF BURLINGTON VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT

Bob Long

DRILLS/TRAINING To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

COURTESY OF OXFORD CENTER VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANY

Firefighters from all three town companies participated in the Oxford Center Volunteer Fire Company's monthly multi-company training drill at Center Fire Station to hone their practical skills. Forcible entry, ventilation, and ladder operations—all essential components of fireground operations—were the main topics of the nighttime drill. Flash Fire Industries provides instructors for the forced entry and ventilation stations as well as a mobile training trailer.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

August, 2026

PAGE 45

MASSACHUSETTS

Five-Alarm Fire Injures Two Residents and Two Firefighters in Monson MONSON, MA – On May 19 at 4:38 P.M., Monson Fire and Police were dispatched by Westcomm Regional Dispatch to 433 Lower Hampden Road for the report of a structure fire. En route, dispatch updated responding units that there was a person with burn injuries and the possibility of additional JUMP TO FILE# occupants still in- 061626141 side the building.

Chief Harris transmitted a second alarm and requested multiple ambulances to the scene.

Monson Police arrived first and located an occupant with thirddegree burns covering more than 40 percent of their body near the burning building. Officers dragged the victim to safety.

Chief Harris arrived on scene, established command, and reported a large three-story building with heavy fire conditions on Side B. The fire involved two 120-gallon propane tanks that were venting and burning, with fire extending into Division 2. During the initial 360-degree size-up, command discovered another injured occupant in a first-floor apartment searching for animals.

That individual was removed from the building and escorted to a safe location.

The first-arriving engine, staffed by only two personnel, knocked down much of the exterior fire while mutual aid companies arriving shortly afterward were assigned search operations and establishing a water supply from a pond on the property and a nearby stream located several hundred feet from the fire scene. Additional resources were assigned to fire attack and RIC as they arrived.

Due to rapid fire spread throughout the 1800s-era building, interior crews were eventually withdrawn, and a ladder pipe was placed into operation to bring the fire under control. Once conditions improved, crews re-entered the structure to conduct overhaul operations and extinguish remaining hot spots.

In total, two occupants were transported to the hospital with life-threatening injuries, and two firefighters were transported for heat-related injuries. At the time of the fire, temperatures were approximately 95 degrees. Rehab services were provided by the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services and Rehab 78 out of Charlton, Massachusetts.

The fire ultimately escalated to five alarms, with more than 50 firefighters operating on scene at the height of the incident.

- BRIAN HARRIS

CHRIS JACOBS

CHRIS JACOBS

CHRIS JACOBS

PAGE 46

August, 2026

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

MASSACHUSETTS

IN SERVICE If you have photos you would like to see in our In Service feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

ANDOVER FIRE RESCUE

Quick Knockdown Prevents Dumpster Fire from Spreading to Building in Andover ANDOVER, MA - Andover Fire Rescue responded to a reported dumpster fire in the area of Main Street on April 29th, where crews arrived to find a working fire to the rear of a building. Firefighters quickly stretched a hose line and brought the fire under control, preventing any extension into the structure. Their rapid response ensured the incident remained contained with no damage reported to the building.

CHUCK LOWE

Dudley operates a 2024 Sutphen Monarch 2000/550/30B as Engine 3.

ATTLEBORO FIRE DEPARTMENT

Crews Handle Vehicle Fire and Crash in Attleboro ATTLEBORO, MA - Attleboro Fire Department crews quickly extinguished a fully involved pickup truck fire on May 29th.

Firefighters brought the blaze under control and applied foam to suppress fuel-fed fire caused by leaking vehicle fluids. The incident was handled without injuries. At the same time, additional units responded to a motor vehicle crash involving a single car that had struck a concrete barrier on an interstate off-ramp. The driver had safely self-extricated prior to the arrival of emergency personnel and was not injured.

CHUCK LOWE

Ware Engine 2 operates with this 2022 Pierce Saber 1500/1000.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

August, 2026

PAGE 47

MASSACHUSETTS

FIREFIGHTER PROFILES If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Firefighter Profiles” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

ESSEX, MA FIRE DEPT.

Quick Response Stops Vehicle Fire at Essex Building Supply Center COURTESY OF CHICOPEE FIRE DEPARTMENT

Lieutenant Ed Gelinas finished his last shift and retired from the Chicopee Fire Department on May 1st. According to officials, Gelinas first served the nation through a remarkable military career before taking on a variety of duties in the fire department, including dispatcher, EMT, and fireman. He moved into the department's Fire Prevention Division in 2017 and eventually rose to the position of lead fire investigator with a focus on fire cause and origin investigations.

Gelinas' commitment, professionalism, and long-lasting accomplishments to public safety in the City of Chicopee were commended by department officials. In addition, they wished him a happy and healthy retirement and praised him for his years of service.

ESSEX, MA - Essex firefighters responded to a reported vehicle fire at a local building supply center on May 4th. Upon arrival, crews found a vehicle fully engulfed in flames positioned in the center of the yard near lumber storage materials, creating an immediate risk of extension to nearby structures and stockpiles. Engine 2, Ladder 1, and Ambulance 1, working alongside mutual aid from the Hamilton Fire Department, operated quickly to bring the fire under control.

Firefighters deployed suppression lines and coordinated efforts that successfully prevented the fire from spreading to adjacent buildings and exposures. No injuries were reported, and the scene was secured after extinguishment and overhaul operations were completed.

FIRE COMPANY LOGOS If you have photos you would like to see in our “Fire Company Logos “feature please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

PETER LOBO

Driver Hospitalized After Bedford Street Rollover in Waltham CHUCK LOWE

Waltham Ladder 2's new company logo pays homage to the city's history and its nickname, "Watch City." The Waltham Watch Company established its factory in Waltham in 1854, becoming the first company to manufacture watches on an assembly line. It was awarded the gold medal at the 1876 Philadelphia Centennial Exposition. Over its operational years, the company produced more than 35 million watches, clocks, and instruments before closing in 1957.

WALTHAM, MA — On June 8th, Waltham firefighters responded to a rollover crash on Bedford Street after the driver of a Toyota Highlander struck a parked vehicle near 60 Bedford Street.

The impact caused the SUV to overturn and come to rest on its side. Firefighters stabilized the vehicle to prevent further movement while crews worked at the scene. The driver was transported to Newton-Wellesley Hospital with injuries that were not immediately known. The cause of the crash has not been released.

PAGE 48

August, 2026

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

MASSACHUSETTS

DRILLS/TRAINING To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

FREETOWN FIRE DEPARTMENT

MASHPEE FIRE DEPARTMENT

Mashpee Fire Department’s Group 1 conducted hands-on training using a donated van, allowing crews to practice real-world vehicle extrication scenarios. Firefighters worked through multiple techniques for gaining access, removing obstacles, and safely extricating occupants.

MASHPEE FIRE DEPARTMENT

Mashpee Fire Department held a productive training session focused on relay pumping operations using Ladder 1 from Engine 3. The session provided valuable hands-on experience in water supply operations and pump coordination. Probationary firefighter/paramedic Jack Howard has returned to shift following 10 weeks of fire academy training and is actively applying his newly gained knowledge during operations and training.

Garage Fire Extends into Freetown Home, Displaces Residents FREETOWN, MA - On April 19th, Freetown firefighters responded to a reported vehicle fire inside a garage at a residence on Chace Road, with Stations 2 and 3 dispatched to the scene.

Emergency dis- JUMP TO FILE# patchers instructed 051526102 occupants to evacuate, and all four residents safely exited the home. One individual sustained a back injury while assisting others during the evacuation and was transported by Freetown EMS for evaluation.

Upon arrival, command reported a working fire in a ranchstyle residence with an attached garage underneath. Heavy fire was showing from the garage with extension into the living space above and into the second floor.

A working fire assignment was transmitted, bringing all Freetown personnel and equipment to the scene along with mutual aid from Lakeville, Rochester, and Dartmouth District 3. The Providence Canteen provided rehabilitation support for crews.

Firefighters deployed multiple handlines to bring the fire under control and conducted extensive overhaul operations. No injuries to fire personnel were reported.

-1RN NEWS TEAM

FREETOWN FIRE DEPARTMENT

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

August, 2026

PAGE 49

MASSACHUSETTS

K. LEGER

COURTESY OF NEW SALEM FIRE DEPARTMENT

Multi-Agency Response Supports Aircraft Recovery in New Salem

K. LEGER

NEW SALEM, MA - An airplane involved in an incident at the Quabbin Reservoir O'Loughlin Regulating Pond on May 1st was successfully removed without any more issues, according to the New Salem Fire Department. Fire, police, diving rescue, environmental, and aviation professionals were among the local, state, and federal agencies who participated in the re-

JUMP TO FILE #072913106

covery effort. While preserving the reservoir and the nearby natural resources, responders worked to securely remove the airplane.

The Massachusetts State Police, Orange Fire Department, Northfield Dive Rescue, Environ-

mental Police, Department of Environmental Protection, Department of Conservation and Recreation, Massachusetts Water Resources Authority, and a number of specialized recovery teams were among those that responded.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

COURTESY OF LEVERETT FIRE/EMS

K. LEGER

Fall River’s Memorial Day Parade FALL RIVER, MA - On Monday, May 25th, the Fall River Fire Department took part in the annual Memorial Day Parade.

Single-Vehicle Crash Sends Driver to Hospital in Leverett LEVERETT, MA - After a northbound Jeep veered off the road and collided with a tree at the base of an embankment on April 24th, the Shutesbury Fire Department and Leverett Fire/EMS responded to a single-vehicle collision on Route 63. Before firefighters arrived, the Leverett Police Department promptly put out a small fire in the engine compartment, according to officials.

Amherst Fire Department ambulance staff assessed the lone occupant on the spot and took him to the hospital. Before leaving the area, crews secured the car, controlled traffic, and looked for any more hazards.

PAGE 50

August, 2026

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

MASSACHUSETTS

FREETOWN FIRE DEPARTMENT

Brush Fire Sparked by Unattended Campfire Contained in Freetown FREETOWN, MA - Freetown firefighters were dispatched to investigate reports of smoke in the area of Betty Springs Road, with crews from Stations 2 and 3 responding on April 26th.

Upon arrival, firefighters located a 3–4 acre brush fire approximately one-third of a mile into a wooded area. The fire was determined to have originated from an unattended campfire that had not been properly extinguished. Crews utilized brush breakers from both stations and worked extensively to contain and secure the perimeter, operating into the evening hours.

Firefighters would return to the scene to continue extinguishing remaining hot spots and ensure full containment.

ESSEX, MA FIRE DEPT.

Driver Injured in Essex Single-Vehicle Crash ESSEX, MA - Essex Fire crews responded to a motor vehicle crash on Southern Avenue in the Manchester woods after a vehicle left the roadway, May 30th. Upon arrival, personnel located the driver, the sole occupant of the vehicle, who sustained non-life-threatening injuries. The individual was treated on scene before being transported to a local hospital for further evaluation and care. Crews worked efficiently to assess the situation and ensure the scene was safe before clearing.

DRILLS/TRAINING To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

PETER LOBO

BMW Breaches Fence at Waltham Costco, Prompting Rescue Response WALTHAM, MA - An accident on June 7th occurred in the Costco parking lot in Waltham after an EV BMW crashed through a fence, nearly going into a stream. Waltham Engine 2, Rescue 1 and Medic 1 responded. Rescue 1 needed to cut the fence in order to remove the car.

Members of the Berlin Fire & EMS Department recently strengthened their technical rescue capabilities as Lieutenant Paulino and FF/EMT Cushman successfully completed the Rope Rescue Technician Course hosted by the Massachusetts Fire Academy.

The intensive program focused on advanced rope rescue operations, including anchoring, rigging, and victim extrication techniques in complex environments.

BERLIN FIRE & EMS DEPARTMENT

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

August, 2026

PAGE 51

MASSACHUSETTS

DRILLS/TRAINING To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

COURTESY OF AMHERST MASSACHUSETTS FIRE DEPARTMENT

Amherst Firefighters Stop Vehicle Fire from Reaching Home AMHERST, MA - On May 25th, at around 1:19 a.m., the Amherst Fire Department sent both onduty and off-duty personnel to respond to a reported vehicle fire that had spread to a residence.

Arriving personnel discovered two cars completely engulfed in flames, according to officials.

Before the fire could spread to any surrounding buildings, firefighters quickly put it out. An Amherst ambulance arrived in the Town of Granby to assist with a multi-alarm fire incident later that morning at around 4:05 a.m. During both occurrences, the department said that workers also responded to additional concurrent emergency calls. There were no reported injuries.

PITTSFIELD FIRE DEPARTMENT I.A.F.F 2647

COURTESY OF CHICOPEE FIRE DEPARTMENT

Chicopee Battle of the Badges Donates $4,000 to Boys & Girls Club PITTSFIELD FIRE DEPARTMENT I.A.F.F 2647

Pittsfield Fire Department members used time between calls to focus on hands-on training. Crews worked on hose handling, master stream operations, pumping, and forcible entry techniques— key skills for effective fireground operations.

CHICOPEE, MA - The Chicopee Battle of the Badges Hockey Team gave $4,000 to the Chicopee Boys & Girls Club, according to an announcement made by the Chicopee Fire Department on April 30th. The Battle of the Badges program, a volunteer organization composed of members from the Chicopee Police and Fire Departments, is celebrating its tenth anniversary this year, according to officials. Over the last ten years, the organization has given scholarships to students at Chicopee High School and Chicopee Comprehensive High School in addition to supporting a number of local initiatives, such as Lorraine's Soup Kitchen & Pantry.

PAGE 52

August, 2026

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

MASSACHUSETTS

FREETOWN FIRE DEPARTMENT

Quick Knockdown in Assonet Rapid Interior Attack Stops Fire Amid Multiple Calls ATTLEBORO FIRE DEPARTMENT

Fire at Attleboro Pizza Restaurant ATTLEBORO, MA - Attleboro firefighters responded to a reported fire in a pizza restaurant on Park Street, arriving to find heavy smoke conditions from the occupancy, May 23rd.

Crews made a rapid interior attack using portable extinguishers, bringing the fire under control within minutes. The restaurant, attached to a multi-family residential building, experienced smoke extension; however, firefighters successfully prevented fire spread to the adjoining residences.

JUMP TO FILE #052526104

Utilities to the restaurant were secured, and the scene was turned over for investigation, with damage primarily contained to the area around a fryer. No injuries were reported.

Mutual aid companies provided station coverage during the incident.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

Submitting photos and press releases is EASY!

Register at www.1rbn.com to begin posting directly.

Prefer emails? Email your press release and photos directly to

FREETOWN, MA - On May 22nd, Freetown Fire responded to a reported shed fire behind 5 Matawa Drive in Assonet while the duty crew was already handling a commercial fire alarm on Mill Street.

After confirming the JUMP TO FILE# alarm to be acciden- 052226181 tal, Deputy Lafleur redirected Engine 3 to the Matawa Drive incident.

On arrival, crews encountered heavy fire involvement on a rear porch with extension into an attached structure.

A working fire assignment was transmitted, initiating a full recall of Freetown personnel and bringing in tanker support from Berkley and Lakeville, along with assistance from Mass DCR. Despite the structure being located a significant distance from the roadway, crews achieved a quick knockdown and limited damage to the exterior of the residence.

During the incident, additional units were dispatched to 120 Howland Road for reports of smoke in a residence. That call was traced to a malfunctioning electric range with no fire extension.

- 1RN News Team

lindsey@1strespondernews.com FREETOWN FIRE DEPARTMENT

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

Fire Code Inspections – Part 1 IN THE FIRE ZONE JOSEPH CEA

Fire code inspections are preventative in nature. They are designed to catch potential issues before a fire could occur.

This is in contrast to a fire investigation that would take place after a fire to determine cause and origin. Fire code inspections may involve routine assessments such as monthly reviews of fire extinguishers, emergency lighting or possibly ensuring the positioning of inventory, aka fire load, in a warehouse. Inspections are typically done for one of three reasons: new construction, renovations (including alarm and sprinkler system installation) or a received complaint.

Fire code inspectors operate under several titles including but not limited to Fire Officer (as an employee of a municipal fire department), Fire Marshal, Building Code Inspector, Fire Protection Specialist and Fire Technician. The guiding principles for what are more commonly known as fire code compliance are state building/fire codes and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards. Significantly, in order for the latter to have any “teeth” they would have to be incorporated into the state fire code. Otherwise, it is just a recommendation and would not be enough to legally have a business/home owner, contractor etc. comply with the codes.

Fire code inspections are not completed solely by state fire agencies. There are several public agencies that would complete fire inspections and each may have very different objectives. Usually, the public agencies are at the state and county level notwithstanding local fire departments. In New York State for example, the following agencies would participate: Department of State Child Protective Services Office of Fire Prevention and Control Department. of Environmental Conservation Education Department

Each agency would have a specific emphasis. For example, the Education Department would focus on primary and secondary schools and more specifically, fire doors, extinguishers, egress and fire drills for students and staff. Child Protective Services would conduct life and fire safety inspections to assess if a home is safe for children including the presence of extinguishers, safe heating appliances and proper storage of flammables like matches, lighters and potentially combustible chemicals.

The private sector also employs several positions that would conduct fire inspections including but not limited to colleges, racetracks and insurance companies. In fact, many municipalities rely on third parties for electrical and plumbing inspections (relative to fire suppression systems) and for several reasons.

The first is a given municipality may not have the personnel to conduct fire inspections for every contractor. Barry Suydam, owner of Suydam Construction LLC out of Burnt Hills NY, indicated for this article that the vast majority of inspections to ensure compliance of the residential renovations and remodeling by his company are fire related.

Secondly, there may be a training factor if a local code enforcement officer does not have the training for all aspects of a fire code inspection and are better left to a more seasoned professional. Even when private employers such as a college have fire technicians there may still be oversight required by a public agency to ensure compliance.

One concept to be discussed from the onset is “grandfathering” or as it is currently known as a pre- existing non-conformity. These terms refer to situations when a structure is guided by codes and standards that were in use at the time of construction as opposed to current codes and standards. For this reason, inspectors will usually keep copies of older codes to ensure compliance is within the applicable standards.

This does not mean that just because a building is fifty years old that it is not subject to more modern- and present-

day codes. There are several factors that would negate a structure being grandfathered i.e. pre-existing non-conforming status relative to fire codes. These would include but are not limited to the following situations:

August, 2026

pending on the structure a fire suppression system.

Keep in mind that when conducting fire code inspections to emphasize that they are done so for the safety and protection of residences and businesses and not some “gotcha moment”. This is not to say

PAGE 53

that there won’t be some negative outcomes such as potential fines or driving up construction costs but by and large the various fire codes and NFPA standards are designed, (sometimes changed) and implemented to prevent a tragedy from occurring.

If a building/structure was never in compliance with fire codes then it would not be grandfathered because it was never legal to begin with. This would include a situation when an inspector mistakenly passes a structure as acceptable. A second circumstance would be access to an electrical service disconnect. This is actually a national code issue.

An example would be an apartment building where previously only the landlord would have access to an electrical panel shut off whereas nowadays every tenant has to have access to the shutoff in the event of an emergency.

Further, if a structure abandons its use for a year (this may be a local code) then it would lose its grandfathered status. If a bed and breakfast were to cease operations as such for a year, any new use after that would negate any pre-existing, non-conforming status and would then have to comply with new codes such as having to install a sprinkler system. Lastly, if a structure changes substantially (which can be highly subjective) it could subsequently lose its grandfathered standing. A good example would be old circuitry either losing (by industry standards) or the revocation of its Underwriters Laboratory (UL) status.

Some fire departments will conduct preventative inspections for their district residents. If a local fire department has the personnel to conduct these invaluable inspections it is suggested that a waiver be utilized to limit liability and to thoroughly document all findings. In this example firefighters would, at the request of a homeowner, visit and assess the home for potential fire hazards and safety measures. A four-gas meter could be used around any gas appliances and a receptacle tester to ensure outlets are properly grounded.

Further recommendations could be fire extinguisher presence and placement, GFI outlets around water sources in kitchens/bathrooms and de-

PROVIDED

Fire Marshals have to prevent obstacles to egress.

PROVIDED

This fire extinguisher has a ripped tag taking it out of compliance.

PAGE 54

August, 2026

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

MASSACHUSETTS

VEHICLE NEWS

CHUCK LOWE

Charlton has taken delivery of a 2025 Spartan Metrostar/Marion walk-around that will operate as Rescue 1.

PITTSFIELD FIRE DEPARTMENT I.A.F.F 2647

CHUCK LOWE

Lexington recently put this 2025 Ford Transit/Dejana/Transglobal as Hazmat 1. This vehicle carries equipment for spill control and minor incidents that do not require assistance from a regional team.

PITTSFIELD FIRE DEPARTMENT I.A.F.F 2647

Cat Safely Rescued from Tree

by Pittsfield Firefighters PITTSFIELD, MA - On April 28th, the Pittsfield Fire Department responded to a reported animal rescue on Francis Avenue, where a cat was found stranded high in a tree. Upon arrival, crews located the feline approximately 30-feet above the ground, with witnesses reporting it had been stuck there for several days. Engine 3 personnel deployed a ground ladder to access the animal. Probationary Firefighter Carolina Jones climbed to the cat and safely brought it down to awaiting Animal Control officers. Despite signs of possible malnourishment, the cat is expected to make a full recovery, thanks to the coordinated efforts of firefighters and local authorities.

K. LEGER

The Fall River Fire Department acquired the former Easton, MA apparatus that will be a spare pump for the city to be used when front line apparatus is out of service.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

August, 2026

PAGE 55

MASSACHUSETTS

ESSEX, MA FIRE DEPT

Fiery Two-Vehicle Crash Prompts Mutual Aid Response in Manchester ESSEX, MA - Crews from the Essex Fire Department responded mutual aid to the southbound lanes of Route 128 in Manchester to assist Manchester-by-the-Sea firefighters at a two-vehicle motor vehicle crash involving fire, May 3rd. Engine 2 deployed an attack line with foam to suppress the vehicle fire, while Ambulance 1 transported one patient to a local hospital for treatment.

LITTLE BIG GUYS

FREETOWN FIRE DEPARTMENT

Vacant Structure Fire Draws Heavy Response in Assonet Village FREETOWN, MA - On April 28th, Freetown firefighters responded to multiple reports of a structure fire on Water Street in Assonet Village, where first-arriving companies encountered heavy fire conditions in a vacant residence.

A working fire assignment was transmitted, bringing all available Freetown personnel to the scene along with mutual aid engines

JUMP TO FILE #051526101

from Berkley and Lakeville.

Dartmouth District 3 provided station coverage, while the Providence Canteen supported crews with rehabilitation services during extended operations.

Firefighters operated for several hours to bring the incident

under control and complete overhaul.

This marks the third fire at this location within the same month.

The origin and cause remain under investigation by the State Fire Marshal’s Office, along with local police and fire officials.

No injuries to firefighters or civilians were reported.

- 1RN NEWS TEAM

If you have photos you would like to see in our Little Big Guys feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.

CHUCK LOWE

Sandwich Forestry 3 is a 2019 Ford F-350 4x4 125/225.

FREETOWN FIRE DEPARTMENT

PAGE 56

August, 2026

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

EMM Loans Joins Heroes Mortgage Program, Expands Financing Options for Community Heroes The Heroes Mortgage Program has announced that EMM Loans has joined its platform as a participating lending partner, further expanding financing options available to community heroes nationwide.

The Heroes Mortgage Program is designed to connect first responders and other essential professionals with lenders offering specialized mortgage products and financial support. The platform serves firefighters, police officers, EMTs, military personnel, healthcare workers, and educators, including both active and retired members.

“We’re very excited to have EMM Loans come on board as a participating lender of the Heroes Mortgage Platform,” said Joseph Belsito. “Their commitment to providing meaningful financial solutions aligns with our mission to support those who serve our communities every day.”

With its addition to the platform, EMM Loans

will provide a broader range of financial solutions beyond traditional home lending. In addition to residential mortgage financing and refinancing, the company will offer down payment assistance programs tailored to eligible borrowers within the hero community.

The partnership also introduces expanded financial services, including home equity solutions such as HELOCs and cash-out refinancing, as well as commercial financing options for investment properties and business purposes. In addition, EMM Loans will provide access to SBA lending programs, allowing qualified borrowers to pursue small business opportunities and longterm financial growth.

Industry observers note that the inclusion of commercial and SBA financing within a hero-focused lending platform reflects a growing trend of lenders offering more comprehensive financial solutions to clients, particularly those seeking to

build wealth beyond homeownership.

The Heroes Mortgage Program maintains a selective network of lending partners, choosing institutions that demonstrate a commitment to service, transparency, and the ability to deliver enhanced benefits to community heroes. EMM Loans’ participation reinforces that mission, bringing additional resources and expertise to the platform.

For eligible borrowers, the partnership provides access to a wider range of financing tools from purchasing or refinancing a home to leveraging equity or securing funding for business ventures - through a single, streamlined platform.

Community members interested in learning more about available programs can visit www.HeroesMortgageProgram.com/EMMLoans or call 866-497-8833 for additional information.

HeroesMortgageProgram.com/EMMLoans