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DECEMBER, 2015
ACCIDENT ON INTERSTATE 95
CHRISTOPHER KING
CT - The Norwalk Department responded to a reported accident on Interstate 95 Southbound between Exit 15 and 14 at 3:19 p.m. on October 7th. The initial report said that a bus and dump truck were involved with the driver of the bus possiblly pinned in the vehicle. - See full story on page 14
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December, 2015
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
NEW HAMPSHIRE
BOB LONG
December, 2015
BRIAN HARDY, BIGDOGFIREPHOTOS.SMUGMUG.COM
MVA in Concord
On October 15, 2015 at 4:30 p.m., Concord Fire Department with police were dispatched for an MVA on North State Street in front of the bowling alley. All hazards were tended to by the fire department. Injuries are unknown, but the cause of the accident is under investigation.
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December, 2015
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
NEW HAMPSHIRE
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8,17,30 37
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Classified Page
45
Apparatus For Sale Comedy Works
Dingee Machine Co. EJ Boughton Co.
46
30 4
45
Fail Safe Hose Testing
10
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33
FDIC
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2
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21
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16
Medix Specialty Vehicles
43
Minuteman Fire & Rescue
47
Mid Atlantic Rescue
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35 3
11
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25
Shipmans Fire Equip. Co.
9
Shaker Auto Group
31
Spotted Dog Technologies
23
Swissphone
27
Sprint
Task Force Tips
Trademaster, Inc.
15 7
41
Translite, LLC. Veinlite
13
Utility Communications
11
Ultra Bright Lightz Waterway
38 19
CORPORATE INFORMATION
1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New England edition - Vol. 20, No.12 - is published monthly, 12 times a year for $36 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 e r r o r . A division of: Omissions or errors must be brought to the attention of the newspaper during the same month of publication.
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SCOTT HAGGART
Blaze strikes house under construction The Derry Fire Communications Center received a single 911 call at 6:30 p.m. on October 28th from a resident reporting a fire in a house under construction at the end of the cul-de-sac on Stone Fence Drive. Derry Engine 2 and Car 1 were dispatched with a Londonderry engine and a Hampstead tanker. All other Derry apparatus were delayed due to simultaneous calls. Companies arrived on scene to find a large colonial home under construction with a fire on the first floor. The first arriving companies forced entry and extinguished a small fire in the front foyer. The fire was caused by a gas fed heater that was left on to dry the drywall. Additional crews arrived to assist with checking for extension,
JUMP TO FILE #102915118 searching the structure, controlling the electricity and ventilating the structure. The fire burned through a small area of first floor to the basement. Smoke and water damage was minimal as the house was still under construction. The fire was under contol at 7 p.m. with the alarm recalled at 7:49 p.m. The home had a sprinkler system that was not operational yet. The fire was discovered by a neighbor walking her dog. There were no civilian or fire service injuries reported. - SCOTT HAGGART
PAUL DOLNIER
Massive smoke from third alarm in Rochester
A 911 call came in at 12:23 p.m. for a fire in a multi-unit apartment house on Chestnut Street in downtown Rochester, NH. Arriving units, due to high winds and heavy smoke and fire conditions, went from a working fire to a box alarm. Within minutes, the fire went to a second alarm. Then, the fire shortly went to a third alarm due to high winds and buildings located very close together. Command recognized the need for additional manpower at the scene. No injuries were reported. Massive black billowing smoke was seen coming from the fire building. Heavy smoke and fire were in the rear of the building and the upper floors as well as throughout the building. The Red Cross was called to the scene for about 15 to 20 people displaced due to the fire.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
December, 2015
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December, 2015
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
In memory of those who gave all 1st Responder Newspaper honors and remembers emergency responders lost in the line of duty
Missouri: Larry J. Leggio, 43 Rank: Fire Apparatus Operator Incident Date: October 12, 2015 Death Date: October 12, 2015 Fire Department: Kansas City (Missouri) Fire Department Missouri: John V. Mesh, 39 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: October 12, 2015 Death Date: October 12, 2015 Fire Department: Kansas City (Missouri) Fire Department
Initial Summary: Fire Apparatus Operator Larry J. Leggio and Firefighter John V. Mesh died from injuries sustained in a structural collapse while working at the scene of an apartment building fire. Multiple units were dispatched at 1927hrs on initial calls that indicated fire visible from the structure; additional units were dispatched as the incident escalated, with a full second alarm requested shortly after arrival. Tactical assignments were made, including establishing a Rapid Intervention Team, and crews began operating to effect fire suppression and occupant rescue, rescuing multiple occupants by ladder prior to deteriorating conditions and forcing a shift to defensive operations. Evacuation was ordered at 1952hrs. At approximately 2007hrs, a collapse was reported on the east side of the building. Two MAYDAY calls were received from the collapse area, indicating firefighters in urgent distress; four firefighters were reported trapped by the collapse. The Rapid Intervention Team witnessed the collapse and held their ground for no more than 10 seconds until Command ordered them to effect the rescue. They located, uncovered and removed several firefighters from the immediate area. The first ambulance transporting a firefighter departed the scene at approximately 2013hrs, arriving at Truman Medical Center (TMC) approximately five minutes later. A second emergency transport left the scene at approximately 2021hrs with arrival at TMC five minutes following. Both those firefighters, Fire Apparatus Operator Leggio and Firefighter Mesh, were pronounced dead at the hospital after paramedics, nurses and doctors had attempted to revive them. A third firefighter was transported to University of Kansas Medical Center at 2023hrs and a fourth transported non-emergency to St Luke’s at approximately 2027hrs; their condition is still to be reported. The cause of the fatal fire is being investigated by local, state, and federal authorities.
Tennessee: Antonio Smith, 46 Rank: Lieutenant Incident Date: October 6, 2015 Death Date: October 7, 2015 Fire Department: Memphis Fire Department Initial Summary: Fewer than 24 hours after responding to an emergency call with the Memphis Fire Department, Fire Lieutenant Smith was found deceased near his residence inside of his personal vehicle. The nature and cause of Lieutenant Smith's fatal injury are still to be reported. Ohio: Charles “Chuck” Horning, 54 Rank: Captain Incident Date: October 13, 2015 Death Date: October 13, 2015 Fire Department: Townsend Township Fire Department Initial Summary: Fire Captain Horning was found deceased, slumped over the steering wheel of a vehicle, approximately eight hours after responding to a fire call with his fire department. The nature and cause of the fatal injury is still to be determined.
New Jersey: Gerald "Bear" Celecki, 70 Rank: Fire Police Officer Incident Date: October 14, 2015 Death Date: October 14, 2015 Fire Department: South Amboy Fire Department Initial Summary: Fire Police Officer Celecki collapsed while directing traffic at an emergency incident. Celecki, who was also chief of the Middlesex County Fire Police, was treated on-scene by fellow responders and transported to the hospital but succumbed to a nature and cause of fatal injury still to be determined.
Texas: Larry O'Neil , 58 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: October 25, 2015 Death Date: October 25, 2015 Fire Department: Lone Camp Fire Department Initial Summary: Firefighter O'Neil was responding to an emergency medical call in a fire department vehicle and had just arrived on-scene when fellow responders noticed that he had become ill. Firefighter O’Neil was removed from the vehicle, provided medical assistance, and transported to a local hospital where he succumbed to a nature and cause of injury still to be reported but thought to be cardiac related.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
December, 2015
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December, 2015
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
NEW HAMPSHIRE
PAUL DOLNIER
Burning leaves spread to nearby shed with extension 911 received a call from the resident at 29 Branson Road eon November 16th reporting a fire in a pile of leaves, which was quickly spreading to his nearby outdoor shed. Upon arrival of first due units, the fire had indeed spread to the nearby shed, which was approximately a ten by ten wooden structure that contained a riding mower, a snow blower, and a trailer inside. Due to the quick response and fire attack, the shed was damaged on the roof area and the side facing the outside fire, but minor damage was seen on the riding mower, the snow blower, and trailer.
JUMP TO FILE #111615131 No injuries were reported by residents or first responders. The fire quickly spread due to windy and very dry conditions on scene. Rochester (NH) Fire Department’s Engine 7 was dispatched for water supply (non hydrant area of town). They were cancelled by Farmington command. Milton (NH) FD Engine 6 handled station coverage during this incident. - PAUL DOLNIER
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Working basement fire for Laconia On October 9th at 2:56 p.m., the Laconia Fire Department was dispatched to a building fire at 121 Messer Street. Gilford and Belmont Fire Departments were also dispatched as autoJUMP TO FILE# matic. Engine 1 ar- 102915120 rived quickly as the fire scene was less than a mile from headquarters. Lt. Ellingson reported light smoke showing from multiple locations. He did a walk around and determined that there was a working basement fire and requested a second alarm. The second alarm brought an additional Gilford engine, plus engines from Meredith, Sanbornton, Tilton, and Franklin Fire Departments. Stewarts EMS, Belmont and Holderness covered the city. The fire building was a 30 x 60 three story with five units and a flat roof. A line was stretched from the rear bulkhead and started knocking down the cellar. Assistant Chief Beattie took command and quickly assigned companies to the first, second, third floors and roof. The fire was running the Side D exterior wall. Crews quickly opened up and effected extinguishment. Damage was in excess of $70,000. A paramedic refresher class had just finished as the second alarm was struck, so nine offduty Laconia firefighters quickly responded to augment the duty crew. This made a huge impact on suppression efforts. - KENNETH ERICKSON
KENNETH ERICKSON
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
December, 2015
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December, 2015
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
MICHAEL CARENZA
New Britain firefighters make quick stop New Britain, CT. On October 17, 2015, New Britain firefighters were called to Winthrop St for a structure fire with an unknown address. It was later updated as 210 Winthrop Street. They had a three story wood frame with the rear porches fully involved. A second alarm was soon called. Firefighters made a quick stop, holding the fire to the rear of the building.
KEITH MILTON
East Great Plain and Shipman’s team up for training
On Saturday, October 24th, the East Great Plain Vol Fire Company along with two representatives from Shipman's Fire Equipment Co trained on the fire department’s new Paratech rescue struts. The Paratech rescue struts replaced much older stabilization devices that the department had. The day was spent along with the two representatives stabilizing different vehicle scenarios. The new Rescue Struts will make the fire departments job easier to stabilize a vehicle when needed. Thank you to Shipman's Fire Equipment and the two representatives for training with the fire department.
December, 2015
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
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Flag retirement ceremony
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December, 2015
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
Residential sprinklers versus firefighter safety STAYING SAFE
Chief Henry Campbell
On August 13th, the New York City Council passed legislation that requires the installation of automatic fire sprinklers in pet stores that house animals for 24 hours. The deadline for compliance is December 2016. The councilman sponsoring the bill, Councilman Corey Johnson was quoted as saying the sprinklers will save the lives of animals and firefighters who attempt to rescue them. Contrary to Mr. Johnson’s concerns for firefighters, on August 19, the New York State Codes Council, after extensive lobbying by the construction and realtors association, failed to adopt requiring the installation of residential sprinklers in all new one and two family homes. The Code will still require residential sprinklers in wood frame construction that exceeds two floors above grade. Needless to say, this was a disappointing defeat for the New York fire service, which had waged its own lobbying campaign in support of the requirement. Executive Director Jerry DeLuca of the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs (NYSAFC) commented, “I am deeply disappointed that in voting to remove residential sprinklers from the statewide building code, members of the Code Council have chosen to put profit ahead of safety.” On October 13, the Minnesota Court of Appeals overturned the residential sprinkler requirement that required the installation of residential fire sprinklers in all newly constructed homes in excess of 4500 square feet. The Builders Association of the Twin Cities had initiated the appeal of the requirement by the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry claiming the 4500 square foot size was an arbitrary figure and unsupported. The Minnesota Court issued the following statement: “We are mindful today that we are declaring a rule adopted by an administrative agency of the state invalid. We do not do so lightly, but rather thoughtfully and unanimously. Nevertheless, we are bound to apply the law.” The executive director of the Builders Association of the Twin Cities also issued a statement: “Safety is the highest priority of Minnesota builders, and we are proud that new homes in Minnesota are among the safest in the nation. The sprinkler mandate would not have changed that safety record, but it would have made homes more expensive for Minnesota families. The Court’s decision to invalidate the sprinkler rule confirms what the public, legislature, and code experts have overwhelmingly stated all along, the sprinkler mandate is arbitrary and not supported.” A few key issues in the debate
over residential fire sprinklers is the additional cost for purchasing a new home requiring sprinkler installation when most homes require smoke detectors which do an excellent job in alerting the residents to exit the home in a timely and safe manner. Also, that the older homes will not be required to have sprinkler systems thereby presenting a greater loss of life hazard than the newer constructed homes. I don’t think so! The modern constructed homes burn faster and hotter due to contents and materials and the collapse dangers are increased by the use of truss construction in floors and roofs, posing an increased life hazard to firefighting personnel. The answer to this issue is for firefighters to operate from exterior positions, avoiding any possibility of being trapped in a collapse. Over the past few years, the concern for firefighter safety has increased due to the economic climate of the nation. The reductions in staffing in many municipal departments and the decrease in volunteer firefighters could be offset to some degree by the installation of fire sprinklers in the home. It would seem that with the reduced number of firefighters, there would be a far greater justification for residential sprinklers. If all the newly constructed homes that have been built over the past 25 years had been required to have residential sprinklers installed, maybe we could face the present economic crisis and firefighter cutbacks feeling a little more secure about the safety of firefighters and the people residing in those homes. New York City Councilman Corey Johnson was concerned with not only saving lives of animals, but firefighters also. Till next time stay safe and God Bless!
CONNECTICUT
OLIVIA DRAKE
Fire prevention practiced in Haddam Firefighters from Haddam Volunteer Fire Company in Haddam, Conn. visited Burr Elementary School and Haddam Elementary School Oct. 19-20 to teach children about the importance of fire prevention. The 2015 Fire Prevention Week theme is “Hear The Beep Where You Sleep. Every Bedroom Needs a Working Smoke Alarm!” Firefighters taught the students about smoke alarms and replacing batteries, how to safely remove themselves from a burning home or building, calling 911, and how to
JUMP TO FILE #102115118 stop, drop and roll. Firefighters encouraged the children to talk to their parents about an escape plan in the event of a fire. The volunteers also spoke about their gear and allowed a teacher to “extinguish” a firefighter as a fire extinguisher demonstration. Fire Prevention Week was established to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire, the tragic 1871 con-
flagration that killed more than 250 people, left 100,000 homeless, destroyed more than 17,400 structures and burned more than 2,000 acres. The fire began on October 8, but continued into and did most of its damage on October 9, 1871. In 1920, President Woodrow Wilson issued the first National Fire Prevention Day proclamation, and since 1922, Fire Prevention Week has been observed on the Sunday through Saturday period in which October 9 falls. - OLIVIA DRAKE
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
December, 2015
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December, 2015
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
Accident on Interstate 95
CHRISTOPHER KING
Take the “pressure” off! FIREFIGHTER FITNESS Lori Ann Hodgkinson
On the heels of Halloween and Thanksgiving and the busy holiday season fast approaching, many of us are soon to abandon our regular exercise routine. Unfortunately, in many cases fitness routines are replaced with poor eating patterns laden with sugar, salt, cholesterol and fat. Less exercise and increased food consumption is a double whammy! Many of us are well schooled in the danger of consuming excessive amounts of high fat food. Although it is important to limit the amount of fat you consume, many of us are unaware of the negative effects a diet high in sugar and salt can have on our weight and our health. One such negative effect is high blood pressure (hypertension). High blood pressure has long been linked to increased risk of heart attack, stroke and more. Before you trade in your exercise program for a holiday season of poor eating, consider the long term consequences. A recent client presented as overweight, and newly diagnosed with high blood pressure (hypertension). His physician not only recommended weight loss, but also wanted to prescribe multiple medications. Since this was a recent diagnosis (which did not present at a doctor’s visit in previous months) the physician agreed to give the client an opportunity to manage his blood pressure on his own. (Please note, this decision can only be made by a physician and is dependent on the severity
of the hypertension and condition of the individual.) Although it is possible to wean off medication as blood pressure is managed over time, in many cases blood pressure medication continues long term and sometimes lifelong. My client (Bob) wanted to avoid medication if possible, so he set out to manage his blood pressure naturally. The physician cleared him for mild to moderate exercise (based upon the individual), and sent him on his way with an appointment to return in three weeks for reevaluation. Upon first interview with Bob, I learned that a typical breakfast for him was a sugared cereal and a glass of chocolate milk. Lunch (since he was on the go) was typically pizza, a hot dog or sometimes a soup and sandwich. Additionally, on average there were two to three glasses of iced tea or other soft drink per day. Snacks were often chips, pretzels and an occasional candy bar. Dinner, was much better, a lean meat – starch and a vegetable. Alcohol consumption was occasional. Since, bodyweight, as well as sodium, caffeine and alcohol consumption (and of course saturated fat and cholesterol) all significantly affect blood pressure, Bob’s daily food/beverage choices seemed the best place to start. Along with a mild exercise program, Bob agreed to make some dietary changes. A dietician can be of significant benefit, so after checking with one, here is what we managed to workout. The sugary cereal at breakfast was replaced with shredded wheat or oatmeal (read the label, zero sugar zero sodium). Bob added a ½ of a banana and ¼ cup of (raw,
unsalted) almonds. The chocolate milk had to go (sugar and caffeine). Instead, he had a cup of decaf coffee with just a splash of flavored creamer (less than 1 gm saturated fat, zero sodium, zero cholesterol and 2.5 gms sugar). He also added a multi-vitamin daily. His mid morning snack was an orange. Lunch was more typically grilled chicken or turkey on light bread (sodium is only 70mg/slice as opposed to most breads which contained closer to 200mgs/slice). The bread didn’t seem to taste much different, was really just a bit thinner than most, which probably accounted for the lower calories and sodium content. Later day snacks were unsalted popcorn or ¼ a cup almonds. Dinner remained pretty much the same. He paid more attention to portion sizes and avoided prepackaged foods or canned vegetables since they are all loaded with sodium. Evening Snack was a “Healthy Choice” brand fudge bar. Please note these are merely a few examples of what worked for him. His diet contained a wide variety of foods. Your dietary choices should be tailored to your needs. Bob originally thought soup and salad was a healthy meal, but the labels show most canned soups contain over 600 mgs of sodium in just one serving. Many of the salad dressings are high in fat and contain 350-700mgs of sodium in just two tablespoons. That doesn’t leave room for much else if you are looking to stay between 1500 and 2300mgs of sodium per day. (see the DASH eating plan, a dietary plan for reducing blood pressure at http://dashdiet.org/default.asp) The sugary soft drinks had to go. Bob now drinks plenty of water and naturally flavored seltzer. An occasional soft drink can be tolerated, but consuming two, three and sometimes four per
The Norwalk Department responded to a reported accident on Interstate 95 Southbound between Exit 15 and 14 at 3:19 p.m. on October 7th. The initial report said that a bus and dump truck were involved with the driver of the bus possiblly pinned in the vehicle. Upon the arrival, companies found a coach bus had hit the rear of a tractor trailer. Crews went to work setting up hydraulic tools and hand tools to extricate the driver of the bus. The extrication took a little over 15 minutes. The driver was transported to Norwalk Hospital in serious condition. The bus had a total of 41 passengers traveling from Boston to New York City, of which, 18 were transported to Norwalk and Stamford Hospitals with non-life threatening injuries. Norwalk EMS was on scene and set up a mass casualty command post due to the number of passen-
day had him exceeding recommended sugar levels. Exercise, was four days per week for 30 minutes. Considering hypertension, workouts were mostly cardiovascular in nature. We avoided overhead lifting, used light weights and did lots of circuit training. After three weeks Bob dropped ten lbs. I know we typically recommend a weight loss of only two lbs per week, but calculations showed that Bob had dropped more than four lbs of water (as per measured on a bioelectrical impedance scale) and a little more that five lbs of fat. That had him well within recommended levels. His high sodium diet had him retaining a great deal of water and reducing his sodium intake released a good amount of water. He returned to the doctor and his blood pressure had dropped enough for the Dr. to grant him a few more weeks of self management. (Remember, the physician, and only the physician can safely make this determination.) After three additional weeks, Bob dropped another seven lbs (for a total of 17 lbs). His blood pressure was within normal range and the physician deemed no medication necessary at this time. Bob had been consuming far too much sugar, which was keeping extra weight on him. His sodium content had him retaining far too much water. Originally, the Dr. would have prescribed a diuretic along with an antihypertension medication, but Bob’s weight loss brought him success on all counts. Presently, as this holiday season approaches, he continues to lose weight, at a somewhat slower rate. Bob will check in with the dietician for further recommendations and eventually some maintenance advice. His blood pressure and weight are within healthy ranges. He is still medication
JUMP TO FILE #100815105 gers on. Once the MCI was calle,d it brought in resources from surrounding towns and put area hospitals on alert for the possibility of multiple patients. Ambulances from Norwalk, Darien, Wilton, Westport and AMR responded to assist with transport. Norwalk Fire Department responded with a total of 13 personnel arriving on two Engines, one rescue and the command car. The cause of the accident is under investigation by the Connecticut State Police, which called in their accident reconstruction team. The highway was down to one lane with sporadic full closures to allow emergency vehicles to access the scene. and fully open by 9 p.m. - CHRISTOPHER KING
“free”. He continues to exercise, and we constructed a plan to fit his holiday schedule. As of our last workout, he reports that he is not going hungry and is not feeling deprived at all. By reading the labels, he has been able to make better choices and avoid unnecessary food traps. He has worked some of his favorite, and less healthy food choices into the mix, but has limited portions and also managed to find tasty satisfying versions. Next time you are in the food store, pick up a few of your favorite foods and read the label. Check the fats, and saturated fats. Compare the sodium and sugar levels. Not only will you be surprised how high some of them are, I bet you will also notice a significant difference in many brands of the same product. Be sure to pay close attention to serving size as often they are much smaller than we think. For more information on label reading go to: http://www.fda.gov/Food/IngredientsPackagingLabeling/LabelingNutrition/ucm274593.htm For more information on daily sugar intake go to: http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm455837.htm For more information regarding sodium intake go to: http://www.fda.gov/Food/ResourcesForYou/Consumers/ucm31 5393.htm For further information on reducing blood pressure through nutrition go to: http://dashdiet.org/default.asp for the “DASH” diet I referred to earlier. Get your holiday exercise plan in place and by January you can be enjoying a Happy Healthy New Year! More than ever, a physician’s approval is the place to start.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
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December, 2015
CONNECTICUT
BERNIE MEEHAN, JR.
CT Exchange Club honors firefighters On October 15th, the Connecticut District Exchange Clubs held their eighteenth annual Salute to Connecticut's Firefighters at the Aqua Turf Club in Southington. Being a strong supporter of the fire service, the Exchange Club holds a Firefighter of the JUMP TO FILE# Year program annu- 101615104 ally to recognize firefighters’ contributions to their communities. This year, the Connecticut District recognized twenty five outstanding fire service members, presenting them with plaques and proclamations at the podium during the banquet that was attended by approximately 1000 friends, families, and colleagues. The ceremony opened with the Connecticut Firefighters Honor Guard presenting the colors, escorted by the Connecticut Firefighters Pipes and Drums. The keynote speakers were Lt. Jeffrey Sneller and Firefighter Jubenal Gonzalez of Manchester Fire/Rescue, who gave an excellent address on the perils of firefighter cancers, drawn from both of their first hand experiences. After the keynote, various officers of the Connecticut District were joined by Exchange Club National President Daniel McQueeney from Charleston, SC as they made the presentations. At the end of the ceremony, the Blue and Gold Honor was dedicated to the family of Hartford Firefighter Kevin L. Bell, who was lost in the line of duty on October 7, 2014. - BERNIE MEEHAN
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December, 2015
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
EDWARD PRESCOTT
Fire at trash transfer station
The Norwalk Fire Department responded to the trash transfer station at 61 Crescent Street at 9:55 a.m. on October 22nd for the report of a man, who fell into a trash hopper. The man was emptying trash from his van when he inadvertently fell 15 feet from the unloading area into the trash shoot, which led to a dumpster. Upon arrival, transfer station employees had already removed the dumpster so firefighters and a police officer could access the patient. The patient was quickly removed and transported by Norwalk Hospital paramedics with non-life threatening injuries.
Reflections Chaplain's Corner Didymus McHugh
This time of year, we are so busy running around. We are decorating the station and the fire apparatus for the holidays and getting ready to take Santa around for the children. Then, there is the gathering of your fire company members and a party at the station also. Oh, we forgot to mention the family. We need to pick up the presents for the children and the rest of the family members and the relatives that we may see once a year. Then comes the thought of the actual day. Do you dress up? Whose house will you celebrate at? Is it your parents’ house or your spouse’s relatives? Or, do you go to Aunt Jenny’s house or a friend’s house? Have you thought about the less fortunate? Have you bought them anything? What about the homeless? Do you really know who they are? How many veterans are homeless? Have you decided to work and feed some people? Or bring joy to those who have nobody? Just look at your members or retired members or those in the firemen’s home or local nursing home. Have you taken time to be still and just be with God?
Maybe it is time to thank God for all the blessings in your life. We forget God said that He will take care of our needs, not wants, but needs. Have you thanked Him? Yes, I understand that we go through hard times, but did we learn something from that, become stronger or more compassionate? Have you reflected and truly looked in the face of people who need help? Do you really know if it is God in disguise? Let us remember what the holidays are really about. Miracles. For Christians, it is about the miracle of our Savior being born, as a man. For the Jews, it is the miracle of the Hanukkah, which was a miraculous military victory, but a tiny cruse of oil proved more miraculous and enduring in the memory of the Jewish people. Let us reflect on the miracles that we have seen in the past year. Who lived after a bad car accident or survived a fire, or a fall, that by all means should have been dead? We do not always notice the hand of God at work around us. I challenge you to do as Psalm 46:10 states and “be still and know that I am God”. He is always here for you, not just when things seem to fall apart. Kiss your loved ones. Let them know how much they mean to you and keep coming home to them after your calls. Express now to people how much they mean to you. You will also light up their day. Merry Christmas! Happy Hanukkah! Stay safe.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
December, 2015
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December, 2015
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
CONNECTICUT
Vehicle News
DAMIEN DANIS
Squad 1 in Hudson (NH) is this 2015 Ford f F550, Alexis 300/300 REG PATCHELL
8th annual Project Safe Halloween Program The Baltic Fire Company #1 recently hosted their 8th Annual Project Safe Halloween Program on October 31st, 2015 at their fire house. Our Safe Halloween Program runs entirely on the donations received from many throughout our community. This program is held as a way to provide a safe environment for the children and parents of our community to trick or treat throughout our firehouse, gathering as much candy, if not more than they
JUMP TO FILE #110915122 would have received if they had gone door to door in a neighborhood. Our program also allows all of the children (and parents) in our community to trick or treat without the threat of a speeding car or some person hiding behind something to take a person’s candy away. The program starts off with a costume parade starting at the
Sprague Town Hall up the hill to our firehouse, where they begin to trick or treat throughout our firehouse. At the end of the night, including six donated bikes and helmets, movie passes, dinner for two, pumpkins, and flashlights. We broke our previous record of 1,300. We would like to say thank you to all who made a donation for this year’s program. - REG PATCHELL
Amherst (NH) Engine 4 now operates this 2015 HME/Ahrens Fox pumper, 1500 gpm and1000 water tank.
DAMIEN DANIS
Correspondent Contest Sponsored by Fire-Dex
The readers of 1st Responder Newspaper have helped make www.1rbn.com the fastest-growing Fire/Rescue/EMS site on the web. Information comes from our valued correspondents. Each time you post an entry on our website, your name will go into a drawing for a monthly prize. Only web entries are eligible. The prize for our December editions from Fire-Dex is a pair of Fire-Dex FDXL50 Grey leather boots. Our October editions winner of $100 Home Depot Gift Card from First Priority Emergency Vehicles was Kent Cullom from California. If your company would like to provide a prize and sponsor our monthly contest, contact Heather at x212. The latest addition to the Fire-Dex Footwear line-up, this boot offers lightweight comfort & protection together with a traditional, throwback styling.
ROBERT FISH
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DAMIEN DANIS
The Bethel (CT) VFD placed it's new Sutphen Monarch Rescue Engine 5 in service during the department’s wetdown ceremony and dedication. It responded to it's first call three hours later.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MAINE
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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com
JACK STAWASZ
Frye Island (ME) Engine 1 is a 1990 Pierce Dash. This vehicle once saw service in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
December, 2015
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December, 2015
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MAINE
MVA with serious injuries On October 20th, York Village Fire was toned out to an unknown medical with a person on the ground bleeding. A nearby York village firefighter arrived on scene and updated the JUMP TO FILE # call, reporting a 080713101 motor vehicle accident with serious injuries and the patient trapped in the vehicle. Engine 4 and Truck 8 responded. Crews went to work stabilizing the vehicle, stretching a hose line, and placing a dry chemical extinguisher out before going to work with the "jaws of life". The roof was removed to gain access to the patient, who was extricated and transported to York Hospital by York Ambulance. York Maine Police Department assisted with traffic and scene safety.
Third alarm structure fire in ME requests mutual aid units from NH At 7:23 a.m. on October 28, 2015, Milton (NH) Fire Unit Engine 6 was dispatched as mutual aid to the Town of Lebanon, ME (across the border) for a working structure fire incident. Upon their arrival at the scene, Rochester NH Fire Department was dispatching Engine 7 to Lebanon, ME as a water tanker supply unit. As of 8:06 a.m., a Milton NH Fire Department unit advised their dispatch that they will be on scene for an extended period of time and to have additional personnel advise to cover their town for EMS and fire calls. The Town of Lebanon Maine is the very next town across the
JUMP TO FILE #102815100 border into Maine from New Hampshire and the towns involved often perform across the state border responses in mutual aid call situations for both EMS and Fire incident types of calls. As of 8:33 a.m., the third alarm was struck for 249 Lower Cross Road in Lebanon ME, bringing three additional engines , which included a Milton engine, Rochester Engine 3, and Rochester Car 2. A Farmington engine was required for station coverage. - PAUL DOLNIER
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
December, 2015
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December, 2015
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
RON JEFFERS
FIRST IN PHOTO'S
Fitchburg fourth alarm damages another three decker On Saurday, October 31, 2015, Fitchburg Fire received a call at 1:51 p.m. for a building fire at 44 Granite St. Full response was dispatched. Downtown crews leaving the station could see the smoke collumn already in the sky. The deputy chief on arrival had heavy fire showing from the roof and cockloft of a very large three story wood frame multi apartment building. The second alarm was struck, which brought Leominster Engine 3 and Ladder 1.
JUMP TO FILE #110115103 Ladder1 set up on Salem St at the C/D side of the building. The crew vented the roof and then set up the ladder pipe to work the building. Third and fourth alarms were sounded, bringing in multiple mutual aid companies from Shirley, Lunenberg and others to the scene and for station coverage. Many heavy streams were used
to work on the fire, which was knocked down and under control within an hour. Considerable overhaul was conducted and the fire was knocked down with hot spots breaking out that had to be wet down again. Didn't hear of any injuries, but 22 people were made homeless by this fire, which may have started in a third floor apartment ceiling fan. An investigation is under way. - ROBERT ALLEN
Work begins on Worcester Ahrens Fox pumper The Worcester Fire Department and partnership with the Worcester Historical Fire Society (WHFS) has begun work on Worcester's 1939 Ahrens Fox Pumper #3448. The "Fox" was delivered to Worcester and put in service as Engine 11 in April of 1939 until it was moved to spare status in 1950 and retired in the 1970's. 3448 was truly one of a kind, a model "ID", the only one made. The model ID was built with a Hercules HXE 6 cylinder engine and a 4 pis-
JUMP TO FILE #101515106 ton pump rated at 750gpm. The WHFS is collecting donations for both this project and the creation of the Worcester Fire Museum and Education Center. Any inquierys can be made to Captain Gary R Fleischer via e-mail. FleischerG@WorcesterMA.gov - GARY FLEISCHER
PETER LOBO
JAKE O'CALLAGHAN/CWN
Rollover in Harwich
Harwich, MA. Around 4 p.m. Friday, November 6th, two SUV's collided, causing one vehicle to rollover. The accident happened at the intersection of Route 137 and Austen Road near CVS. The male driver of the overturned Hyundai Tucson was trapped in his vehicle for 30 minutes before Harwich Fire and Rescue was able to extract him with the Jaws of Life. The female driver of the Chrysler Pacifica was also transported to Cape Cod Hospital with minor injuries. Harwich Police early reports indicated the driver of the Hyundai crossed over the double yellow line hitting the Chrysler and causing the rollover. Traffic in the area was a mess for Friday rush hour.
Waltham completes trench rescue training
Waltham, MA. The Waltham Fire Department recently completed a course designed to train firefighters in the techniques of trench rescues. Under the direction of Training/Safety Deputy Chief Brock Rolland, Fran Clark of C&C Fire Training Consultants and members of the Regional Technical Rescue Team, firefighters spent four hours in the classroom and 24 hours of on-hands training. Of the seven engines, one rescue pumper, one heavy rescue and two ladder trucks in the department, approximately 60 firefighters assigned to both rescues as well as an engine and ladder from the central fire station were trained. Firefighters also designed and outfitted a trench rescue trailer to respond for such incidents.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
December, 2015
MEET ROVER
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December, 2015
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
View from the A/D corner of 34 Myrtle Street an hour into the fire.
NATE ARNOLD
Conflagration averted in Chicopee RICHARD J. REGO/SFD
Swansea trains on chimney fire operations
Firefighters from Stations 1 and 3 trained on chimney fire operations at the shops building at the Case Junior High School in Swansea. Firefighters trained on proper aerial placement, chimney chains, suppression of chimney fires, etc.
ALL IN THE FAMILY
A fast moving, intense fire destroyed an occupied two story wood frame dwelling in Chicopee on October 24, 2015. Were it not for the fast response of the Chicopee Fire Department, at least three homes would have been destroyed. Chicopee jakes were called to 34 Myrtle Street at 7:15 p.m. by multiple 911 calls reporting a house and arrived to find heavy smoke and fire venting from the two story structure with immediate exposure problems on sides Charlie and Delta. Civilians on scene confirmed tthat all occupants were outside the home and the focus of the firefight then switched to protecting the ex-
JUMP TO FILE #102515102 posure buildings and limiting the fires spread. Hand lines were stretched to all sides of the building. While this was taking place, the overhead electrical service line to the home gave way and dropped down onto Engine Co. 3's apparatus, which was positioned on the Bravo side, rendering the truck unusable until electric company linemen could cut the power at the pole. This necessitated calling in the fourth due engine to assist at the fire and left just one engine and one lad-
der company available in the city. Mutual aid from Holyoke and Westover Air Reserve Base were then called to cover empty city firehouses. Having four engines and a ladder tower on scene, the bulk of the fire was knocked down within half an hour. Companies remained on scene for the next two hours knocking down hot spots and overhauling what was left of the building. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by CFD arson investigators, but with the home so badly damaged, determining a cause could prove difficult. - NATE ARNOLD
If you have photos you would like to see in our “All In The Family” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
JAKE O'CALLAGHAN/CWN
Car into garage in Harwich PROVIDED
Norwood, MA. (Dad) Firefighter Dara O'Malley and (son) Firefighter Joseph O'Malley of the Norwood Fire Department
Harwich, MA. A 61 year old woman lost control of her vehicle, hitting a neighbor’s garage on Tuesday, October 27th around 11 a.m. She crossed through 75 feet of shrubbery and a two foot abutment while in reverse. Her BMW sedan had to be towed from the scene on Tisquantum Lane. She was not injured. Harwich Police are handling the investigation.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
SANDWICH FIRE
Sandwich second alarm brush fire Sandwich, MA. Sandwich Fire Alarm received calls for smoke in the area. Apparatus arrived to find a large brush fire off Mill Rd. Command was established and a second alarm brush assignment was requested, bringing multiple outside companies including brush breakers to the scene to assist with fire attack. The fire was declared out days later.
Blood & Fire Vendetta ON THE BOOK SHELF
by John Malecky
Blood & Fire: Vendetta By K.M. Bozarth Available from Amazon.com Price: Paperback $15.43 Kindle: $3.43 I read this book, which is soft cover measuring 5 ½ inches by 8 ½ inches. It has 24 chapters within 209 pages and is the first of what is to become a series of novels by this author. The author has been a firefighter since the year 2000 and has worked in volunteer and paid fire departments in Burlington County, New Jersey. This county is New Jersey’s largest in area and spans from the Atlantic Ocean to the Delaware River, which sepa-
rates the state from Pennsylvania. The book is fiction, but is based on her personal experiences. Being a female, one can imagine the obstacles she faced within her career working in what for many years was considered a “man’s job.!” In a very unbiased way, she writes about being treated differently by different individuals in her crew and in the department, particularly by an officer in command of her company. She is married and her husband has a different public safety type job. Both go through trying times from the demand of their jobs in which PTSD can become a by product. For her character, she takes you through station life, training sessions and emergency calls and helps you develop the imagery of being right there in their midst. It is a good read for both genders, whether you are an emergency service worker or not.
December, 2015
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December, 2015
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
Ladder 2 makes the roof
K. LEGER
Whitman Firefighter Scott Nascarella shows his children the JawsOf-Life on the back of Rescue-1.
Fire strikes triple decker in Fall River Whitman hosts open house Fall River, MA. Firefighters responded to 279 Mulberry Street for a report of fire on the third floor on November 7th. District Chief Douglas Sullivan arrived to heavy smoke and flame blowing from multiple windows on the third floor. Chief Sullivan established Mulberry command and ordered first due Engine 2 and Heavy Rescue 1 to begin an aggressive interior attack. Ladder 2 was able to throw the aerial ladder to the roof for ventilation. All interior crews were mak-
JUMP TO FILE #110815104 ing good progress when the engine company supplying water experienced problems with the fire hydrant. Command ordered all companies to evacuate the building and called for an additional engine and ladder. Engine 5 was able to catch a good hydrant and command ordered all companies to resume interior operations. Firefighters were able to contain the heavy fire
damage to the third floor with smoke and water damage to the lower floors. Fall River Special Services arrived on scene with Rehab 1 and the Lighting Unit to provide cold drinks to firefighters and to light up the fire scene for operations after the sun set. Several generations of the same family were left seeking temporary shelter as utilities had to be cut to the building. - KENNETH LEGER
Whitman, Plymouth County, MA. The annual Open House was held at Whitman's firehouse located at 56 Temple Street on Columbus Day, Monday, October 12th, 2015 from 11a.m. to 2p.m. Firefighters showed visitors the fire apparatus, specialized firefighting and rescue equipment, the fire station and provided fire safety tips and literature to take home. The Massachusetts Department of Fire Service's SAFE Trailer was on location, and visitors could walk through the trailer, learning fire safety tips along the way.
JUMP TO FILE #101715102 Kids were also able to handle a real hose line off of Forestry Unit 245, and try to knock down targets that were set up. Thanks to Papa Gino's, free pizza was available for all of the visitors of the open house. Whitman's CERT team volunteers helped out, passing out pizza and drinks to the many visitors. - PAT TRAVERS
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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
PETER LOBO
Crash causes two car fire Somerset, Massachusetts runs this 2001 Ford F-350 as Forestry 1.
NICK ZABAWAR
Waltham, MA. On October 19th, Waltham received a report of a car fire at the intersection of Bedford and South Streets. Engine 4 and Ladder 2 responded. Engine 4 found that one car had crashed in to a parked car, igniting both cars. Engine 4 Lt Brendon Walsh requested a box be transmitted. The fire was quickly knocked down. The driver and a young boy escaped injuries.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
December, 2015
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MASSACHUSETTS
Brockton firefighters host Annual Softball Tournament for MDA
JAKE O'CALLAGHAN
Two car collision in Harwich
Harwich, MA. At around 3 p.m. on Tuesday, November 10th, a two car collision sent two people to Cape Cod Hospital with minor injuries. A Toyota SUV failed to yield at Depot Road West and Route 28, hitting a Mitsubishi SUV Sport, which ended up on Belmont Road. Harwich Police will be citing the Toyota driver.
Brockton, Plymouth County, MA. On Saturday, October 10, 2015, Brockton Firefighters Local #144 held their annual Softball Tournament for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. For the second year in a row, the tournament was held at Cam- JUMP TO FILE# panelli Stadium, 101715101 home of the Brockton Rox, a future Collegiate Baseball League team. Ten teams participated in this year’s tournament. Teams were made up of firefighters, police officers, and DPW employees, among others. Games were played at several local fields, including the professional field at Campanelli Stadium. Each team was guaranteed at least one game in the stadium. The team from the Brockton DPW reigned victorious in this year’s tournament. Quincy Fire's team came in second place, while a team from Brockton Fire took third. The tournament raised around $3500 for MDA in the daylong tournament.
Whitman MA Firefighter Steve Foster up to bat.
PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
The Brockton Firefighters Pipes and Drums band started off the pregame festivities, followed by the the singing of the National Anthem by Miss Taunton.
MDA Goodwill Ambassador David Corley threw out the first pitch to kick-off the festivities. - PAT TRAVERS
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December, 2015
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
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December, 2015
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Halloween third alarm townhouse fire in Danvers Danvers firefighters were dispatched to a fire in an attached garage at 1:41 a.m. on Halloween night. On arrival, companies were met with three floors of heavy fire in a three and a half story townhouse with a garage below. There were multiple attached and detached exposures in the complex. All residents were safely
JUMP TO FILE #111615136 evacuated, exposures protected, and the fire was successfully confined and extinguished. Two dogs perished in the fire. - BRIAN BARRY
JOHN SJOSTEDT
MVA/rollover in Duxbury
Duxbury, MA. Firefighters responded to a motor vehicle collision at the intersection of Route 3A and Route 139 on October 30th. Arriving units found a two car MVA with one vehicle on it's roof. All occupants were self-extricated. Two patients were transported by ground with non-life threatening injuries. The cause of the accident is under investigation by local officials.
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K. LEGER
Fall River battles third structure fire in five days Fall River, MA. Firefighters battled their third fire in five days at 206 Plain Street, a large wood frame three story structure on November 11th. Firefighters arrived to heavy smoke and flame showing from the third floor and eves. District Chief Kenneth Lima established Plain St. command and ordered an interior attack. Companies were fighting to make the third floor when command ordered an evacuation due to the rapidly changing conditions. Firefighters backed out and changed to defensive, exterior op-
JUMP TO FILE #111215101 erations. Engine companies used heavy stream appliances to protect the exposures in the tightly packed neighborhood, while the ladder companies used their water towers to surround and drown the fire in the original fire building. Command called for all available city units to the scene and mutual aid was called in from surrounding towns. Fire investigators from both the police and fire de-
partments were on scene searching for the origin and cause for several hours after the fire was knocked down. Fall River Special Services was on scene to provide rehab for exhausted firefighters. This building was hit by fire nine years ago and was completely rebuilt. This time, the damage maybe too much. Later on that shift, firefighters battled their fourth fire in five days, an exterior wall fire at 105 Pine St. - KENNETH LEGER
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1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
December, 2015
MASSACHUSETTS
Laugh your way to the bank with a stand-up comedy fund-raiser
JOHN SJOSTEDT
JOHN SJOSTEDT
MVA/MCI in Kingston Kingston, MA. Firefighters responded to Elm St. for an MVA. On arrival, they found a special needs transport vehicle that collided with a pick up truck. Witnesses reported that one of the vehicles crossed the center line and hit the other vehicle. A Level 1 MCI was declared, which brought mutual aid ambulances from Carver and Duxbury. A Medflight helicopter was called, and later cancelled. Five patients were transported by ground to area hospitals.
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Who needs to laugh more than the Fire Companies ---the first responders who deal with dangerous circumstances each and every day? There’s an innovative concept for fund-raising developed by Joey Novick, who is a stand-up comedian and the Fire Commissioner in his hometown: Stand-up comedy shows. Fire companies can get much-needed laughs and profit financially as well. Novick's company, ComedyWorks, provides all-star headline comedians from HBO, Comedy Central, Showtime, Last Comic Standing, and the Tonight Show. Novick’s been producing comedy shows since 1977, and has experience producing shows with such comedians as Jerry Seinfeld, Rosie O’Donnell, Larry The Cable Guy, and Tim Allen. "The comedians were very funny, and very professional," wrote Mark Bruhmuller, Fire Chief of the Churchtown Fire Company of New York. “Joey Novick did an excellent job. Everybody loves to laugh, and it's a great deal of fun." ComedyWorks produces more than 300 shows a year, almost 150 of those for emergency service organizations. The money these shows can
VENDOR TIDBITS Notes from the emergency service business community
raise varies, depending on things like the number of tickets sold, how they're priced, the amount spent on promotion and whether food and drink are available. "Mostly companies produce shows in their own facilities, which may hold 300–400 people," says Novick. "We'll put together a show for them that will bring in comedians from major comedy clubs, with a headliner from HBO, Comedy Central, or the Tonight Show. The feature performer will be someone who's headlined the comedy circuit: Catch a Rising Star, the Improv, the Comedy Store. The host of the show will be a comedian who's very high-energy, like a gameshow host, to get the audience warmed up. A triple headliner show!” The Somerset Fire Company of New Jersey produces two fundraisers a year through ComedyWorks. "We've done about ten shows so far, and it's been great," says Mike Rein-
beck, who coordinates the shows for the 65-member volunteer department. "A friend of mine who had used Joey told me, 'This guy books really good acts.' So, we did the first show, everything was great, and we've been doing shows with Joey ever since." "I find their people to be very funny," agrees Adam Hubney, chief of the Atlantic Highlands Volunteer Fire Department in New Jersey, which books comedians through ComedyWorks for its annual dinner. "We have a professional comedy club in our county, and the quality is just as good." Comedy Works provides a 30-page ‘How-To’ guide that assists organizations through the comedy show production and warns of mistakes to avoid. "We make sure they follow everything in the guide," says Novick. "If a company has never done this before, it gives you everything from you need to know. We make sure that things get done right. Clients who follow the guide always do very well and tend to make money.” For information on Comedy Works, call 1 (888) 782-4589, go to www.comedyworks.org or e-mail joeynovick@earthlink.net.
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
December, 2015
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December, 2015
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
MASSACHUSETTS
JIM FORTIN JR
PROVIDED
Paramedic Victoria Sacco and Malden Mayor Gary Christenson
Cataldo paramedic recognized for Malden Rotary Award Somerville, MA. Cataldo Ambulance Service Paramedic Victoria Sacco (Tori) was recognized on recently at the Malden Rotary "Service Above Self" Awards Banquet honoring Malden's finest. The "Service Above Self" awards honor community and public service individuals from the police, fire, and emergency services. The recipients of this award have shown true dedication to their job and extraordinary commitment to the City of Malden. Tori has worked for Cataldo Ambulance Service for over four years. Her interest in working with Cataldo Ambulance began when she was third-riding in the Newton community while completing paramedic school. She knew that she just had to work for this company that "thinks outside of the box" and is willing to venture into many different types of services for the benefit of patient care and services. She was attracted to the diversification of Malden with people of all ages and nationalities. She loves the call volume and wide variety of calls from visiting elderly housing units to unfortunately, tending to the worst of worst in calls. What intrigues Tori the most is the incredible collaboration between the Malden Police, Malden Fire Department and Cataldo Ambulance Service. She even loves the ever-increasing collaboration with the Hallmark Health VNA and Hospice as the industry movement is heading toward mobile integrated healthcare.
JUMP TO FILE #110515117 When asked about the motto "Service About Self", Tori simply stated, "It is really about going above and beyond the call of duty to really make a difference in people's lives. We need to be an advocate for many of our patients and they need to know that we are there for any future needs or services they or their family members may need down the road. We are not social workers but we are caring health care professionals just doing our jobs to the fullest!" Tori is continuously leading by example through her work ethic and clinical skills; and Cataldo Ambulance Service is grateful and proud to have her on the team. Cataldo Ambulance Service Cataldo Ambulance Service, and Atlantic Ambulance Service(a division of Cataldo Ambulance Service), currently provide 911 responses for 16 municipalities, hospitals and numerous private contracts from 19 base locations throughout Massachusetts covering Greater Boston and the North Shore. They are also a leading private provider of Emergency Medical Transportation in the Commonwealth. The Atlantic Ambulance Service Division is the primary entity that responds to communities in the northern most region of the Cataldo Ambulance Service operating area. - LINDSEY SONN
First chimney fire of the season in Marlborough Marlborough Engines 2 and 5, Rescue 1, Tower 1 and C2 were dispatched to 476 Elm Street for a chimney fire just before 11 p.m. on October 18, 2015. Engine 2 arrived to nothing showing, but found a heavy smoke condition coming from the attic and requested a hand line to the second floor. There were no flames visible and a source of the smoke couldn’t be found. A fan was set up to evacuate the smoke from the residence. No extension was found and the cause of the smoke is unknown. Companies began making up 30 minutes into the incident.
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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
Stow, Massachusetts runs this 2006 Ford F-250 as their Forestry unit.
NICK ZABAWAR
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
December, 2015
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FACES OF NEW ENGLAND’S EMERGENCY SERVICES To see your action shots in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
KEITH MILTON
On Sat Oct 24, 2015, the East Great Plain Vol Fire Company along with two representatives from Shipman's Fire Equipment Co trained on the fire departments new Paratech Rescue Struts.
Whitman Firefighyrt Brian Trefry poses for a picture with a visiting dalmatian.
PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM
Firefighter Gonzalez with Lt Sneller of Manchester Fire/Rescue
The team from the Hanson/Whitman firefighters team.
BERNIE MEEHAN, JR.
NEFIREPHOTO.COM
Capt Joe Halas, Danbury FD
BERNIE MEEHAN, JR.
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Congrats Seymour FD Seymour, CT
December, 2015
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December, 2015
MUTUAL AID GORDON WREN
December 1st, 1974 was a cold, rainy day and night. The temperature hovered just above freezing with the type of damp cold that gets into your bones. I remember that night very clearly after 41 years because just before 7:30 p.m. our dispatch center put in the tones for three adjacent fire departments simultaneously. I was at one of our fire stations serving as a lieutenant with the Hillcrest Fire Company. We heard the multiple tones coming over the dispatch frequency. We all boarded the apparatus and pulled out on the apron, assuming that we were being dispatched to a major structure fire. The dispatcher announced that they had received an emergency notification from the air traffic controllers at Kennedy Airport, indicating that they had lost radar contact with a large Boeing 727 commercial jet liner in the general area of the three very large fire districts. The fire chiefs from all three departments requested more information, but there was none. We all waited, expecting numerous telephone calls from residents reporting a crash, fire, damage, etc., but there was silence. Back then we did not have 911 service, GPS, thermal imaging, cell phones, etc., unlike today when more detailed information would have been available immediately. The chiefs and their teams utilized maps working with law enforcement and started driving on all of the paved and dirt roads in the very large search area. Several hours went by with no leads except for a confirmation that the commercial airliner was missing. Eventually, a New York State police officer driving in on a one-line access road to a summer camp in a very remote and mountainous area, noticed a very strong odor of aviation fuel. With this information, the crash site was eventually located. There was no fire, no survivors; just a scar in this remote location with plane parts scattered over an acre or two. The investigation revealed that the pitot gauge heaters were not activated, allowing them to ice up. Several minutes into the flight, the pilots could be heard saying, "We must have one heck of a tail wind. We are doing 550 knots." It is doubtful that the aircraft could actually travel that rate of speed. The crew decreased their speed, ultimately losing control of the aircraft, which resulted in the tragedy of the plane crash. Last December, a reporter for the local daily newspaper approached me about a 40th Anniversary story of the disaster. In the interview with me, I mentioned that I had always felt that the site should have a memorial of some type that would indicate that it was an area where a major disaster took place. I am an avid hiker, and at some point after the plane crash in 1974, a trail called
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
the "Long Path" was created. This trail starts at the George Washington Bridge, is well over 300 miles long, and extends to the Adirondack Mountains in northern New York. Coincidentally, the folks that laid out the trail designed it so that it went right through the crash site, and thousands of hikers unknowingly hike through the very remote site every year. After the article was published, I was approached by several other people who also thought that the site should be memorialized. We got together and started planning to do just that. On November 7th, over 100 people attended the dedication, with many hiking in the mile from the nearest public road. To say that this was a rewarding experience for all involved is an understatement. My youngest daughter, Alexandra Wren attended the event and posted her thoughts on her blog. She explains the emotional impact that this memorial had on all of us, better than I can. This post is quite different than the brides and babies and engaged couples I usually feature, but it is, by far, the most emotional and moving experience of my photography career. My favorite aspect of what I do is the inspiration that I discover and the human connection that I make with every person I cross paths with on my photography adventures. The events that I was blessed to experience this weekend were so powerful and transfixing that I can only hope I can do it with justice in this post. Since I was tiny, my father, the king of hiking and all things nature, had my little legs on so many hiking trails throughout Harriman State Park that I probably memorized all the trail markers before I knew the alphabet. He instilled such a love for the woods, and especially Harriman in me that I now, as an adult, often find myself seeking peace and reflection there during every difficult or trying time in my life. The connection I've developed for the woods and mountains of this park have molded my character and have on many occasions, reminded me that this life is a blessing and as much bad as there is in the world, there are good deeds to be done and happiness to spread and I am obligated to get back out there and do some good. Several times over the years, my father has mentioned the site of a plane crash close to where we loved to hike. Even as a child, I remember him telling me that if we visited the crash site, he would be able to show me pieces of debris that still remain on the forest floor, decades later. After years of knowing the crash site but having never been there, my father announced that he was determined to have a memorial put up where the three men on that plane lost their lives. On December 1, 1974 at 7:26 p.m., the plane, a Boeing 727, chartered to pick up the Baltimore colts in Buffalo, NY experienced atmospheric icing and crashed in a marshy area of Harriman State Park, not far from St John's in the Wilderness Church and Lake Welch Drive. The three crew members on board, Captain John Lagorio, First Officer Jim Zadra and Second Offi-
cer James cox all perished in the crash. After an investigation, the crash led to changed in cockpit design and several life-saving advancements in commercial pilot training that are still practiced today. My father's idea to have a memorial put up at the crash site was partially fueled by the fact that the site itself sat directly on a portion of the Long Path..a trail hiked by many hikers each year. These hikers were walking through sacred ground without even knowing it. His plan, to clear away the now overgrown brush, install the memorial and hold a small ceremony began to gain momentum and within months, he and several other collaborators were in touch with the victims' families about their intentions. What started out as an idea for a memorial turned into a beautiful plan for a church ceremony, an intimate plaque unveiling and a dinner to remember and celebrate the lives of those lost. For months, I listened to my father answering and making late-night phone calls to plan for the memorial, even watching him return from he crash site covered in sweat and dirt after digging the hole for the memorial himself...I thought I was inspired then, but I had no idea what was to come. On Saturday, November 7, 2015, the families of the victims gathered in the tiny, beautiful church less than a mile from where their loved ones were lost. The children and siblings of the victims spoke, telling funny stories and sharing moments of comfort they've found over the years. After the peaceful service, the memorial began at the crash site, nestled in the woods just a few minutes from the church. The experience of the flight attendant, who flew with the lost men just hours before the crash spoke, telling of her account of the heroic men she knew them to be. Shortly before noon, accompanied by a helicopter flyover, the memorial was unveiled before the tearfilled eyes of the victims' families, 41 years after the crash. After hearing touching words from the families, carnations were left at the base of the memorial and, to my absolute amazement, tears turned to smiles and grieving hugs became joyful embraces accompanied by laughs and relieved sighs..happy, grateful, relieved sighs. The families of the victims flew from across the country to be at the memorial..from as far away as Minnesota, Washington, California, and Wisconsin. And even more amazing to me was the fact that so many of the family members said to me that they had not been in contact with the other families...that they had simply settled back into their own lives, grieving alone with little closure and without discussing the events of that awful day. As I excitedly accepted an invitation to join the families for dinner later that night, it became clear how powerful this dedication ceremony was for all those present. After 41 years, the families of the victims were together, honoring their loved ones and sharing in the comfort of each other. As I looked around the dining room, it was amazing to see so many happy faces, to hear such
beautiful accents from across the country and to know that a great idea and patient, hard work made it all possible for these new friends to be here, together. One of the most powerful moments of the day was the time I spent talking to the sister of one of the pilot's wives. We spoke about life, tragedy and the human ability to be resilient and continue on...that happiness is something you must work for, and if you stop living life to it's full potential, you slowly begin to slide backwards. You must do what you love and embrace the past to live a truly fulfilling life. Happiness, above all else. I'm tearing up just thinking about this sweet conversation! After a night of happy stories, belly laughs, learning about our new friends, exchanging contact information and promising to never lose contact..Cathie, the wife of Captain Lagorio, announced that everyone was to take home the centerpieces on each of the tables;
PROVIDED
star-shaped glass bowls housing a pretty little candle. She added, "because my husband was a star. Thing of us every time you light it." May this emotional story and these portraits inspire you to pay it forward and change someone's life...even in a tiny way. Every tragedy is an opportunity to find a new, brighter light of hope and happiness and most of all, it is never too late. You are never alone. The "star" now has a permanent place on my desk as a reminder of this beautiful day. My wife Robin and I are very proud of Alexandra. She joined the Hillcrest Fire Department over nine years ago. Ironically in September 2014, she experienced a severe ankle injury at an early morning structure fire with a surgery that did not succeed in fixing the injury. This injury has made it impossible for her to take the long hikes that she loves and prevents her from fighting fires.
JOHN SJOSTEDT
Third alarm fire in Quincy
Quincy, MA. Firefighters responded to a quick moving fire at 309 Newport Ave near Quincy Fire Station #4 on November 4th. Firefighters attempted an interior attack on the mixed commercial, residential structure. Firefighters were ordered out of the building and command quickly struck three alarms. Mutual aid was brought to the scene and for coverage. Two ladder pipes from Quincy Ladder 5, and Quincy Ladder 2 were put into operation. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
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December, 2015
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Chicopee jakes respond to fatal fire
A fire in a one and a half story ranch style single family dwelling claimed the lives of two residents shortly after 7:40 a.m. on Sunday, October 18, 2015 and destroyed the structure in the Fairview section of Chicopee. Chicopee jakes responded to the alarm at 7:42 a.m. A single 911 call was received from a passerby reporting that a home at the intersection of Montcalm and James Streets was on fire. As Engine Co. 8 was leaving their firehouse on the opposite end of James Street, they radioed in, advising that they had heavy smoke showing. Car 23 called for a third engine to respond along with the two engine companies and one ladder company already enroute. Arriving on scene, first due Engine 8 had heavy smoke and fire showing from the aforementioned occupied ranch style dwelling and was told by bystanders that there were possibly two people still inside the
JUMP TO FILE #101815104
home. Chicopee's bravest put forth a valiant effort to try to enter the home, but were driven back out by the fire and had to set up an exterior attack. Utilizing multiple large and small caliber hand lines on all four sides of the building, firefighters knocked down the main body of fire within two hours before entering the home to overhaul the structure and recover the victims remains. Two surviving occupants of the home are being helped by the Red Cross. Neither the cause of the fire, nor the identities of the victims had been released by fire officials at the time this article was written. - NATE ARNOLD
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A Chicopee firefighter adjusts his face piece off the A/D corner of 82 Montcalm Street.
NATE ARNOLD
1ST Responder Newspaper - NE
December, 2015
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Season of Change EMS ISSUE
CHELLE CORDERO
Emergency Medical Services have consistently evolving protocols in the quest to provide superior pre-hospital care for every patient. In the past few months, significant updates have included the reintroduction of tourniquets, far less reliance on backboards, and updated AHA CPR guidelines. Some of these guidelines have already been put into practice, but it is up to the individual agency to ensure that all providers are updated and utilizing new protocols in a timely fashion. Key updates regarding tourniquets: Tourniquets have always been a part of practice, but were generally reserved as the “last resort” in potentially life threatening bleeds. Under the update, attempts to control bleeding begins with a sterile dressing and direct pressure; hemostatic dressings can be applied directly to the site in severe or arterial bleeds and covered with sterile dressings before ap-
plying direct pressure. Elevation and pressure points are no longer advised if bleeding is not controlled with direct pressure. If the wound site is accessible for tourniquet use (i.e.: extremities), then a tourniquet may be used as the first-line of treatment to control bleeding. Recent studies have suggested that patients experience better outcomes in cases of severe bleeding when tourniquets have been used properly and applied quickly. When applying the tourniquet, follow manufacturer’s guidelines and always apply the tourniquet proximal to the wound site. Do not remove the tourniquet once it has been applied unless instructed to do so by medical control. Monitor the wound site for signs of profuse bleeding through the dressings. The tourniquet should be tight enough to prevent distal pulses. If bleeding is still not controlled, a second tourniquet should be applied approximately one to three inches proximal to the first. One of the contraindications of using a tourniquet except as a last resort is if the patient has a Hemodialysis catheter/AV fistula in the limb. Key changes regarding the use
of backboards: Healthcare providers will assess high or low risk spinal injury patients to determine whether spinal motion restriction or traditional spinal immobilization is recommended. Studies have shown that there are negative effects of prolonged spinal immobilization on a hard backboard including increased pain, higher risk of aspiration and skin ulcerations. Spinal motion restriction can include the use of a cervical collar and securing the patient to an ambulance stretcher. The purpose is to reduce the patient’s movement and prevent further injury to the spine. All patients suspected of spinal injury need to be assessed and monitored for signs of altered mental status, complaints of pain, and numbness or tingling of extremities. The highest level of medical personnel caring for the patient will make the determination regarding the use of a cervical collar or not. Key updates in CPR guidelines: The American Heart Association has issued new 2015 guidelines for Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation for both the professional and the layman. There are slight, but important changes to all levels of CPR and for all ages. The most significant for BLS healthcare providers administering adult CPR includes minimum and
MASSACHUSETTS
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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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com.
NICK ZABAWAR
The Swansea Ambulance Corps in Swansea, Massachusetts runs this 2015 Ford F-550 with a Life Line box as Ambulance 3.
maximum rate of compressions, previously 100+ per minute now becomes 100 to 120 per minute; depth of compressions was at least two-inches and is now no less than two-inches and no more than 2.4inches; breathing and pulse should be assessed at the same time in order to minimize the time to initiate compressions and breaths; and
limit interruptions in chest compressions to less than ten seconds for assessments, transport or other distractions. The compression/breath ratio remains 30:2 however if an advanced airway is in place, one rescue breath should be given every six seconds while continuous chest compressions are being delivered.
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Agency of Transportation tanker truck destroyed by fire Highgate, VT. On October 23, 2015 at approximately 8:10 a.m., the Highgate Fire Department was toned out for an Agency of Transportation (AOT) tanker truck hauling brine on fire on Route 78 in East Highgate. Firefighters arrived on the scene within minutes of the call being received. Upon arrival of Highgate’s first due engine, the cab of the AOT truck was fully involved in fire. Highgate firefighters put the fire out quickly and there were no
JUMP TO FILE #102415100 reported injuries. Route 78 was shut down for about 40 minutesand then reopened to one lane. Vermont State Police (VSP) responded for traffic control. The fire appeared to have started in the engine compartment of the truck. - GREG RAMSDELL
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