1st Responder New England May Edition

The New England Edition PUBLISHING SINCE 1993

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MAY, 2017

SEVEN-ALARM BLAZE TEARS THROUGH VACANT ROCKLAND WAREHOUSE

PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM

Rockland, MA - At approximately 4:44 A.M. on the morning of Wednesday, March 22nd, the Rockland Fire Department received a call for a building fire at 76 Park Street, a vacant warehouse. Companies arrived to the scene two minutes later and reported a fully-involved building.

- See full story on page 24

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May, 2017

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

May, 2017

PAGE 3

RHODE ISLAND

East Providence Battles Stubborn Two-Alarm Fire East Providence, RI - On April 13th shortly after 11:00 A.M., East Providence Firefighters arrived to find heavy smoke pouring from a two-story residential structure. A second-alarm was struck, bringing all on-duty personnel to the scene.

Interior crews were met with high JUMP TO FILE# heat and heavy 041417110 smoke as they advanced a total of (four) one-andthree-quarter inch hand-lines to the basement and upper floors of the building. After hearing reports that the interior stairs leading to the second-floor had burned away and heavy fire was now venting from a Side-1 dormer, Command ordered the evacuation of all interior crews and changed to a defensive operation.

The incident required 31 firefighters to bring the fire under control and Companies remained on-scene into the early evening conducting salvage and overhaul.

- JOHN KELAHAN

Heavy fire vents from a Side-1 dormer.

CAR 31 ISO

Roof operations in heavy smoke on Side-3.

CAR 31 ISO

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May, 2017

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

NEW HAMPSHIRE

Advertising Index

PATCH OF THE MONTH

A guide to finding great companies

Company

1st Priority

Armor Tuff Flooring

Page 8,28 12

Apparatus For Sale

32

Autotronics

13

Choice Clean Gear

9

EJ Boughton Co.

37

FDIC

35

Firematic

5

Greenwood Emergency

2

Kimtek

14

Mid Atlantic Rescue

27

Minuteman Fire & Rescue

39

New England Fire Equip.

3

NE Fire Rescue & EMS

25

New England Marine

23

Professional Vehicle Corp.

17

Shaker Auto Group

31

Quick Med Claims

Berlin Fire Department, located in Coos County, NH.

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

33

Sprint

17

Task Force Tips

Zodiac

EUGENE WEBER JR.

19

Spotted Dog Technologies

White Eagle Motors

ERIN THOMAS

40

Five Star Fire

Utility Communications

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.

7

11

20.21

24

CORPORATE INFORMATION

1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - New England edition - Vol. 21, No.5 - 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.

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

Smoke was pouring out of the back entrance of the apartment building on Summer Street.

ERIN THOMAS

Two-Alarm Fire in Somersworth During April Fool's Winter Storm Somersworth, NH - A call came in around 7:20 A.M. on April 1st for smoke in an apartment building located in Somersworth. Crews responded to 13B Summer Street and immediately called for a first-alarm after observing a large amount of smoke coming from the rear of the building. A secondalarm was called for Mutual Aid companies to respond, including Berwick, ME, Rochester and Newington. There were no injuries reported and the Red Cross was called in to secure temporary housing for the families who were unable to return to the building.

TOM STAWASZ

Firefighter Tom Stawasz awaits hopping on former Hollis, NH Ladder 1, a 1971 American LaFrance 900, before a town parade. This truck went to Hillsborough, NH and is expected to be replaced within the next year or two.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

May, 2017

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May, 2017

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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

Texas: William ‘Iron Bill’ Dowling, 43 Rank: Captain Incident Date: May 31, 2013 Death Date: March 7, 2017 Fire Department:Houston Fire Department Initial Summary: Captain William ‘Iron Bill’ Dowling passed away on March 7, 2017, from complications of the severe injuries suffered in the Southwest Inn fire on May 31, 2013, that killed four other Houston firefighters and seriously injured many more. The Southwest Inn fire is considered the deadliest day in Houston Fire Department history. In a statement, the Houston Fire Department said of Captain Dowling that “the incredible strength and bravery he showed as he and his family rebuilt his life – and theirs – after his injuries inspired us all. Please keep the Dowling family and all of the men and women of our fire department in your prayers.”

Pennsylvania: Dennis DeVoe, 45 Rank: Lieutenant Incident Date: March 10, 2017 Death Date: March 11, 2017 Fire Department: Harrisburg Bureau of Fire Initial Summary: Lieutenant Dennis DeVoe died from injuries sustained while responding to a multiple alarm row house fire which had confirmed civilian entrapment. DeVoe’s privately owned vehicle was struck on the passenger side at a controlled intersection by a stolen vehicle, reportedly being operated by an intoxicated 19 year-old female who failed to stop. According to reports, the force of the accident sent Lt. DeVoe’s vehicle through a fence and into a parking lot. The driver of the stolen vehicle who fled the scene was arrested later at the hospital by law enforcement.

Mississippi: Clinton Alvin Beasley, 80 Rank: Deputy Chief Incident Date: March 15, 2017 Death Date: March 15, 2017 Fire Department: Sumrall Volunteer Fire Department

Initial Summary: Deputy Chief Clinton Alvin Beasley and Firefighter Loretta Ann Sykes were directing traffic at the scene where a dump truck got tangled in power lines at Mississippi 589 and Oloh Road (Lamar County, MS) when they were struck by a hit-and-run driver. Both Beasley and Sykes passed away at the scene from injuries sustained when hit. The driver of the vehicle was later apprehended by Lamar County law enforcement.

Mississippi: Loretta Ann Sykes, 53 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: March 15, 2017 Death Date: March 15, 2017 Fire Department: Sumrall Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: Deputy Chief Clinton Alvin Beasley and Firefighter Loretta Ann Sykes were directing traffic at the scene where a dump truck got tangled in power lines at Mississippi 589 and Oloh Road (Lamar County, MS) when they were struck by a hit-and-run driver. Both Beasley and Sykes passed away at the scene from injuries sustained when hit. The driver of the vehicle was later apprehended by Lamar County law enforcement.

New York: Yadira Arroyo, 44 Rank: EMT Incident Date: March 16, 2017 Death Date: March 16, 2017 Fire Department: FDNY EMS Station House 26 Initial Summary: FDNY EMT Yadira Arroyo, 44, was assigned to Station 26 in the Bronx and bravely served the Department for 14 years. EMT Arroyo was critically injured while responding to a medical call in the Bronx when an individual seized control of her ambulance and struck her. She was transported to Jacobi Medical Center where she succumbed to her injuries. She is the 8th member of FDNY EMS to die in the line of duty, and the 1146th member of the Department to make the Supreme Sacrifice while serving our city.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

May, 2017

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May, 2017

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NEW HAMPSHIRE

THEN & NOW

If your Department has photos you would like to see in our “Then & Now” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com

TOM STAWASZ

The Hollis, NH Fire Department once operated this 1973 Mack R, which had a 1000-GPM Pump.

JACK STAWASZ

The Hollis, NH Fire Department currently operates this 2008 Freightliner/Dingee, which has a 1000-GPM Pump and can carry up to 3500-gallons of water.

PROVIDED

Gilmanton Firefighters Battle Chimney Fire During Snowstorm Gilmanton, NH - On March 24th, during a Spring snowstorm, the Gilmanton Fire Department's ambulance was transporting a patient to the hospital when they received a cover assignment for their tanker (9E3) to respond to the Town of Chichester for a second-alarm building fire. As they were responding, a call for a motor vehicle accident with injury came in and 9C1 (Chief) responded to that call, bringing in Alton's ambulance to assist.

While responding to the fire, a working chimney fire came in and 9E3 was diverted from the mutual

JUMP TO FILE #032617100 aid assignment and reassigned to the fire in Gilmanton, along with Alton Fire Department's ladder truck (1L1) and 9C1.

Other area departments had already responded to the mutual aid fire, or were covering calls in towns that had already responded to the fire, so other resources were tied up. Upon arrival in Gilmanton, there was heavy smoke coming from the chimney. The original portion of the house was built in

the late 1700's, while the addition was built in the 1800's.

To add to the problems, the house was located off the driveway far enough that the ladder truck would not be able to reach the residence, and the snow that had fallen prevented them from leaving the driveway access.

Gilmanton and Alton fire personnel worked the fire, successfully containing it to the chimney before extinguishing it.

- VINNIE BAIOCCHETTI

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

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The Brookline, NH Fire Department still runs this 1990 International/Ranger Rescue as Rescue 2.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

May, 2017

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NEW HAMPSHIRE

GILMANTON FIRE DEPARTMENT

Pickup Truck Fire for Gilmanton FD During Spring Snowstorm Gilmanton, NH - In the middle of a spring snowstorm on April 1st at 1:23 A.M., the Gilmanton Fire Department received a call for a motor vehicle accident (truck vs. pole) with fire and wires down. 9C1 (Chief), 9E1 (Engine), 9E2 (Engine), and 9A1 (Ambulance) responded to the area of 1750 Province Road (Route 107) in Gilmanton and upon arriving on the scene, were challenged with a pickup truck fire, blizzard like conditions and power lines that were down on and across the vehicle and the highway. Surprisingly, the driver, who was allegedly impaired and drinking a beer outside the truck upon police department's arrival, was subsequently taken into custody by the Gilmanton Police Department. The power lines were live and the vehicle was unapproachable until Eversource Energy arrived to shut the power off.

Fully Involved Log Cabin in Rochester Rochester, NH - At about 5:50 P.M. on March 24th, 911 reports came through for a structure fire at a residence located at 38 Betts Road in Rochester.

One of the first arriving units to the scene reported a one-story log cabin type residence fully-involved, and requested a secondalarm Tanker Task force to be started as soon as possible since this address is outside of the town hydrant system.

The house was being reported as flames coming from the basement (originally reported as a fire in the oil burner), which had then rapidly spread from the basement throughout the main floor of the house. All occupants safely evacuated from the house and no injuries were reported, but three adults were being assisted by the

JUMP TO FILE #032417124 Red Cross with shelter and assistance according to radio reports.

Due to snowing conditions and road issues, the arrival of responding units was slightly delayed. A full second-alarm Task Force was dispatched, as well as station coverage to both Rochester Fire Stations.

No pictures or videos were able to be captured, but a full audio recording of this incident was done for the fire departments involved. The fire was declared out at 8:50 P.M., some three hours after the initial fire dispatch call.

- PAUL DOLNIER

Remains of the Summer camp on Driftwood Island.

DANIEL GORMAN

Structure Fire on Driftwood Island Deering, NH – On March 13th at approximately 3:30 P.M., Deering Fire & Rescue was dispatched to a smoke investigation near the Deering Reservoir.

When 84C-1 arrived at the town beach, he could see a camp JUMP TO FILE# on Driftwood Is- 032317119 land, fully-involved.

A structure fire response was initiated, with boats and forestry vehicles added to the response due to the fact that there was ice covering the lake.

Access to the island was made from Zoski Road. Five boats responded, including one each from Deering Fire & Rescue, Hillsboro Fire, Francestown Fire, Henniker Fire and Weare Fire. These crews were able to break the two-to-three inches of ice on the lake and make an open water path to the island.

When crews arrived at the fire scene, the fire had already flattened the building. There was also a brush fire that came very close to encroaching two other camps, but the crews extinguished all flames to control any spread of fire. The cause of the fire was deemed accidental due to a tree falling onto the primary wires, causing a brush fire that traveled to the camp.

This fire was unusual because it was on an island, making it difficult to access, and there was also ice on the lake which had to be broken so that boats could get across. The firefighters that went into the boats had to remove their personal protective equipment (PPE) and put on personal floatation devices instead, in case the boat they were in capsized.

Once on the island, the firefighters put their PPE back on and

Mutual aid crews working to put boats into the water, break the ice and transport crews, equipment and tools to the island.

DANIEL GORMAN

carried portable pumps, hose and tools to the fire scene in order to extinguish the fire. This was an amazing display of teamwork and comradery on the part of all of mutual aid neighbors that helped mitigate the fire. Unfortunately, the home and contents were a total loss.

Mutual aid was provided by Hillsboro Fire, Antrim Fire,

Francestown Fire, We are Fire and Henniker Fire, as well as Capital Area Compact chief. Also, a thank you went to Concord Fire Alarm for their professionalism and proficiency, as well as Washington Fire for covering the Town of Deering during the incident.

- DANIEL GORMAN

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May, 2017

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

CONNECTICUT

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.

MICHAEL CARENZA JR.

Rescues Made at New Britain Condo Fire BOB GUTHRIE

Savin Rock Hose Co. 4 of the West Haven FD is located in New Haven County, CT.

New Britain, CT - On March 17th at 3:20 A.M., firefighters responded to 220 Lasalle Street for reports of a structure fire. The first company on scene reported that they had heavy fire showing from a two-story condo unit.

In very heavy smoke conditions, firefighters had to rescue three people from the adjoining unit. One person was removed

JUMP TO FILE #031817101 from the second-floor with the other two from the first-floor. All three were suffering from serious smoke inhalation. Six others were taken to the hospital with less severe injuries.

There was a small delay in

getting water, as the first hydrant that was utilized was found to be frozen. Fast work and fire walls had the two-alarm fire in this 10unit condo under control in 45 minutes. The West Hartford and Hartford Fire Departments provided station coverage. The cause of the fire is being investigated.

- MICHAEL CARENZA JR

MICHAEL CARENZA JR.

Dryer Sparks Porch Fire in New Britain New Britain, CT - On March 26th around 9:20 P.M., firefighters responded to 2056 Stanley Street for the report of a fire. Engine 7, which is right near this location, came on scene and reported heavy fire on the rear porch, with extension into the main house. Quick work by firefighters had the flames knocked down after approximately 12 minutes, just as the fire was starting to enter the back room of the house, which sits above a car repair garage. Five residents were temporarily displaced. The fire was determined to have started in a clothes dryer that was in a room on the back porch.

MICHAEL CARENZA JR.

Fire Destroys Garage in Newington Newington, CT - On March 11th, firefighters responded to 261 Maple Hill Avenue for the report of a large truck on fire in the driveway. It was soon learned that it was a detached garage located in the rear of the house that was fully-involved in fire. Firefighters had to work in thick smoke, heavy fire conditions and strong winds to battle the blaze, which ultimately reduced the structure into a pile of ruins. The cause of the fire is unknown at this time.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

May, 2017

PAGE 11

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PAGE 12

May, 2017

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

CONNECTICUT

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

MICHAEL CARENZA JR.

BERNIE MEEHAN JR.

New Milford, CT - On March 11th, the New Milford Community Ambulance Corps presented Lyndall "Lyn" Miller with an award commemorating his 50 year membership in the organization. If 50 years in the Ambulance Corps isn't enough, one month ago he was presented with the same 50 year anniversary award from Water Witch Hose Company #2, also in New Milford, CT. That is a combined 100 years of experience between two organizations. Lyn and his wife Nancy have been married for 49 years. (L to R): 50 Year Veteran Lyn Miller with NMCAC President Donna Hespe.

Teens Being Questioned for Structure Fire in Newington

Newington, CT - On April 13th around 1:15 P.M., the Newington Volunteer Fire Department responded to the Tilcon Quarry off Hartford Avenue, for a fully-involved abandoned structure fire, set deep into the Quarry's property. The only available fire hydrant was located out by the street.

This required 3,600-feet of five-inch hose to be relayed from the street to the scene. A Tilcon water truck was used and two tankers were also called in from Farmington's East Farms and Tunxis Hose stations. Four teenagers are being questioned in regards to this fire.

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1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

May, 2017

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May, 2017

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

Automatic Fire Alarm or Is It? STAYING SAFE

Chief Henry Campbell

The other morning, as I was finishing breakfast and admiring the 22-inches of freshly fallen snow from two days prior, my pager opened, announcing for my department to respond to an Automatic Fire Alarm at a private residence. I pushed away from the table, bundled up, and headed for the location, which was less than a mile from my home.

En-route to the location, an additional dispatch announced that the alarm company had called back, reporting an overheated pan on the stove. With the heavy snow plowed up on the side of the road, it made it difficult to spot addresses on mailboxes, which were covered in snow. As I found the correct location, a residence sitting back 200-feet from the street, the first rig pulled up. Three of us trudged up the driveway, rang the door bell and were met by the homeowner, who offered her apologies for having us respond to an unnecessary alarm. She explained that she was drying a large cast iron frying pan on the stove and had momentarily forgotten about it, that is, until the home alarm sensed the smoke and activated the alarm system.

The homeowner had called the alarm company requesting they cancel the alarm and was advised that the fire department was on the way and couldn’t be cancelled. We explained how her alarm system works and how fire dispatch works in conjunction with her alarm system. The homeowner was most appreciative of our response and explanation as to why we continued our response to her location. We said our goodbyes as she continued to apologize, and headed back to the fire station.

Our fire department, like many others, is dispatched to many AFA’s (automatic fire alarms) in our community, and as in many departments, we have members who tend to shrug off AFA’s with a negative remark, and others who may not respond to the alarm. The members will complain that the AFA’s are wearing them out, the constant crying “Wolf” when there is no wolf, has an impact on them.

Many years ago, fire alarm systems were found in commercial buildings, buildings of public assembly, institutional facilities, and where fire sprinkler systems were installed. Today, under the name Security Systems, they can be found in almost any type occu-

www.1rbn.com

pancy, including residential homes.

The primary function of the alarm system is to detect and initiate the transmission of an alarm to a private monitoring agency, where it is then transmitted to the local 911 dispatch center.

Fire, Police or EMS assistance, or any combination, will be automatically dispatched and once on the way, will not be returned by dispatch. Dispatch may transmit additional information, but they will not terminate your response.

That will be determined by on scene investigation, or department policy. On scene investigation is always the best method. Maybe the occupant thought the problem was minor and had not noticed any fire spread. Cancelling response based on occupant call back may result in having to play catch up, followed by legal ramifications.

There also are false alarms transmitted from AFA’s caused by a variety of reasons. The primary

reason would be poor, or lack of maintenance. Dust in the detector head is common; blow it out with a can of air and the system is back in business. Every now and then, the system may malfunction for no apparent reason. If it is a continual problem, the system needs technical assistance to correct the problem. Many communities have local ordinances that levy fines after so many false alarms are transmitted.

AFA’s are a part of the American technology age and they do make the job of firefighting safer by initiating early response to what may be smoke scares or incipient fires. Even I have a system!

Definition of automatic fire alarm system: a fire alarm system which detects the presence of a fire and automatically initiates a signal indicating its detection.

To be continued...

Till next time, Stay Safe and God Bless!

CONNECTICUT

Norwalk Firefighters Handle Brush Fire Norwalk, CT - The Norwalk Fire Department responded to a large brush fire in the tidal marsh off Wilson Avenue in South Norwalk, just after 9:00 P.M. on April 18th. An area of approximately 300’x300’ burned between the salt meadow and marsh, located between the SONO Ice House and Wilson Point.

Twelve firefighters stretched over 1000-feet of hose to reach the fire area and worked for an hour to bring the fire under control. They remained on scene for another hour thoroughly wetting

JUMP TO FILE #042017104 down and overhauling the brush.

An additional Engine Company positioned itself as a precaution at the closest residential house downwind from the fire, in case it became threatened.

Fire Inspector Phil D’Acunto was on scene investigating the cause of the brush fire.

- NORWALK FD

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

May, 2017

PAGE 15

CONNECTICUT

Wetting down hot spots.

MICHAEL CARENZA JR. MICHAEL CARENZA JR.

Fire Damages Condo Unit in Newington

Newington, CT - On March 12th, the Newington Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched to 4 Pebble Court for reports of smoke coming from the address. The first car on scene reported a working fire in one unit of a condo building. Firefighters worked to knock down the fire and quickly brought it under control. A woman and her two children were displaced and had to find another place to stay. The cause of the fire may have been electrical, but it is still under investigation.

MICHAEL CARENZA JR.

New Britain Makes Quick Work of Garage Fire New Britain, CT - Firefighters made quick work at a detached garage fire in the rear of 190 Landers Avenue around 11:00 A.M. on April 16th. Firefighters had the blaze under control within 15 minutes after arrival. Along with the garage itself, equipment inside of the garage was also damaged. The fire does not seem to be suspicious, but the cause is under investigation.

BERNIE MEEHAN JR.

Danbury Crews Battle Frigid Temps to Knock Chimney Fire

Danbury, CT - On March 12th at 10:00 P.M., Danbury Fire responded in frigid temperatures to 8 Lake Avenue for a chimney fire. Upon arrival, the firefighters were met with an active chimney fire, requiring the Truck Company to ladder the roof and utilize their chimney chains. Members of Engine 22 and Engine 26 removed the woodstove that had caused the fire and then extinguished the fire using dry chemical extinguishers. One resident was transported by EMS for a medical condition. Fire units were back in service after one hour.

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May, 2017

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

CONNECTICUT

Danbury FD Rescues Dog From Fire Danbury, CT - On Sunday, March 12th at 4:45 A.M., firefighters responded to a report of fire at 44 Fleetwood Drive.

Upon arrival, Deputy Fire Chief Bernie Meehan found a single-family house with flames running up the side. The five family members, along with one of their two small dogs, made it out of the house after their smoke detectors sounded and alerted them to the fire.

Despite the freezing temperature outside of just 8-degrees, the firefighters began to tackle the

JUMP TO FILE #031217105 blaze and search the house for a missing Shih Tzu named "Sophie."

Within a few moments of searching, Firefighter Jason Biroscak found Sophie under a couch. He took her to a nearby ambulance where oxygen was administered, and the dog appeared to be recovering well.

Firefighters were also challenged by a car parked in front of the nearest fire hydrant, making

for difficult access to a water source.

Firefighters were able to limit the fire damage to the basement and exterior wall, but the rest of the house was heavily damaged by smoke.

There were no injuries in the blaze and the American Red Cross was assisting the family with temporary housing. The Danbury Fire Marshal's Office is conducting an investigation into the cause of the fire.

- BERNIE MEEHAN

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Rescued dog "Sophie."

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Firefighters Conduct Extrication for MVA with Rollover on Route 7

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Danbury, CT - Just before 9:00 A.M. on April 1st, Danbury Fire and EMS were summoned to Route 7 northbound, at the Interstate 84/Exit 3 interchange, for a motor vehicle accident with rollover. The first State Trooper on the scene found a car on its side with the occupant entrapped. Deputy Chief Meehan (Car 30) arrived next and relayed that information to responding units. Squad 1, Engines 22 and 26 and Truck 1 arrived at the scene and went to work to extricate the driver.

The first order of business was to stabilize the vehicle using rescue jacks, after which the rescuers removed the roof using the Hurst eDraulics system. Once the roof was removed, the single driver/occupant was packaged and handed off to Danbury EMS for transport to the hospital. Volunteer Company 13 also responded to assist.

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The clips are quick. They are of different types of fires (one of a car fire set by vandals), a boat rescue and numerous traffic accidents. Most of the accidents resulted from alcohol and bad judgement. The locations are not identified, just the time of the incident’s operation and type of call.

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May, 2017

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

Change Starts with YOU HEALTH & FITNESS

by Robert “Pip” Piparo

If you have read my past 1st Responder News articles, you may notice a trend forming. I’m sure when you see the word 'fitness' though, the trend that is forming doesn’t come to mind. Most folks probably think these articles are about backs and bi’s, and chest and tri’s, or the latest diet and exercise craze that’s sweeping the nation; but they're not. They are about a cultural shift within the fire service. Hopefully by now, I have laid a good enough foundation to have most of you convinced that this change needs to occur, and needs to occur now.

Somehow, the fact that for the past 15 years, cardiac related events have been the leading killer of firefighters nationwide, just doesn’t seem to be enough. We still have firefighters who believe that being fit is not part of their job description.

But hey, thats the fire service that we all know and love. Change is bad, even if it makes you stronger, faster and healthier; i.e., a firefighter who is better at their job and who will live longer. Now the question is, where do we go from here? The answer my friends, is simple. We work to make ourselves better, which will in turn make the fire service better.

I recently spent some time with the Chief of a large department and he explained it to me like this: 'If my people are happy and healthy, then they are going to do a better job for the people we are here to protect.

After all, they are the ones we are here for.'

So now it’s time to step up and make the change. You have to make this change in your life and you have to commit to it. It won’t be easy and it shouldn’t be easy. After all, if it

was easy, everyone would be doing it! You will have failures, you will have bad days and you will continue going back to the old way. That’s all ok! That’s life. But just like an Alfred told a young Bruce Wayne: Why do we fall?? So we can learn to get back up again.

Each week I hear success stories from firefighters who are just like you, unsure if they should start working out, unsure of how to start, or where to go. The first day is always hard and the second day is even harder, but guess what; they should be! See, that's the thing firefighters need to accept about fitness.

It always has to be hard, you can always get stronger and faster. You have to put in that hard work to get results. You are required to get results, not just for you, but for them, the people you swore an oath to protect.

You also have something unique to our society. You have hundreds and thousands of brothers and sisters who understand, who do our job everyday and know just how hard it is. Fitness brings us all together. We all have something different to bring to the table. We can learn from each other because there is no 'one' way to get “firefighter fit," just like there isn’t 'one' way to put out a residential structure fire.

Just like when we put out a fire, there are some tried and true strategies and tactics that will work to get you on a path to being fitter, and over my next few articles, I would like to highlight the ones I feel can provide the most benefit to everyone.

I am lucky enough to have a network of friends around the world, who work hard each and every day to stay fit. I am going to draw from them and share their experiences here. Should you have any ideas, questions or suggestions for this column, please feel free to email me at Pip@555fitness.com. After all, this is all about us; us changing the fire service culture towards fitness for the better.

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MAINE

ERIN THOMAS

Three-Alarm Fire Destroys Home and Barn in North Berwick North Berwick, ME - A structure fire was called in at 3:30 P.M. on April 16th on 104 Randall Road in North Berwick, Maine. It quickly went to three-alarms as the home was fully-inJUMP TO FILE# volved on arrival, 041817100 and the fire had spread to the barn and the woodland.

Nearly five acres of structure, land and trees were involved on the property and surrounding area.

Firefighters were able to keep the fire in the grass from reaching a second home. The family was able to get out safely, but is still missing one cat. The property is a complete loss.

The fire was declared under control around 8:45 P.M. and the cause of the fire has not yet been determined. The Maine State Fire Marshal's office is expected to be on scene Tuesday, April 18th to examine the damage.

Surrounding Maine towns provided mutual aid to North Berwick from South Berwick, Berwick, Wells, Lebanon, Ogunquit, Sanford, Eliot and Kittery. New Hampshire Departments came from Rochester, Somersworth, Milton, Rollinsford and Dover, while York, ME provided station coverage.

The family lost everything, including their cars. They have two children at North Berwick Elementary and the Principal at the school, Ron Robert, is coordinating efforts to collect donations and help the family rebuild.

Donations by check should be made out to the Kennebunk Savings Bank -William Hill Firefight-

ers Fire Victim Fund and include on the memo line: Duquettes. The mailing address is 8 Main St., North Berwick, ME 03906. Cash

ERIN THOMAS

donations can be dropped off at the bank.

- ERIN THOMAS

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

May, 2017

PAGE 19

MAINE

Rainy Night Garage Fire on Evergreen Drive in Berwick

Heavy rain falling on the scene of a garage fire in Berwick, ME.

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.

EUGENE WEBER JR.

Belgrade Fire Department, located in Kennebec County, ME.

ERIN THOMAS

Berwick, ME - On Thursday night, April 6th just after 9:00 P.M., a call came in for a structure fire on Evergreen Drive in Berwick. It was reported that the homeowner was in the house at the time of the fire. He stated that as he went to the garage to get something, he touched the door JUMP TO FILE# knob and felt that it 040717122 was warm, so he chose not open the door and instead, notified the fire department. This was a decision that likely saved his home.

A first-alarm assignment was called. Crews from Somersworth, NH and Lebanon, ME were called to the scene to assist as mutual aid while South Berwick was called in for station coverage. Not long after crews arrived on scene, Assistant Chief Bruce Plante requested South Berwick to the scene to assist. Two more tank trucks were also called in for water supply.

Firefighters went into a defensive mode in the breezeway, between the home and garage, to keep the fire from getting to the home.

South Berwick crews ventilated the home from a heavy smoke condition caused by the fire. The homeowner was displaced because of the smoke damage in the house and the American Red Cross was called in to assist with a place for him to stay with his three cats.

- ERIN THOMAS

PAGE 20

May, 2017

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

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PAGE 22

May, 2017

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

MASSACHUSETTS

PETER LOBO

Waltham Crews Respond to Vehicle Rollover

Waltham, MA - On March 16th, Waltham firefighters responded to a vehicle rollover at 101 Crescent Street. Upon arrival, crews found that a bystander had pulled an elderly driver out of the van. The driver had hit a parked car, causing the vehicle to flip over. Crews from Squad-5 stabilized the van and knocked out some windows to shut the engine off. The woman was taken to Newton Wellesley Hospital with minor injuries.

PCTRT member Doug Costa hooks up the 4125 Side Scan Sonar System.

PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM

Plymouth County Technical Rescue Team Receives Side Scan Sonar Technology Wareham, MA - On Friday, March 24th, members of the Plymouth County Technical Rescue Team received training on their new EdgeTech 4125 Side Scan Sonar System.

The device was purchased to help locate missing persons underwater, after dive teams are unable to locate them. This technology has been helpful with the recovery of several victims in the past, but was only available through the Massachusetts State Police or Environmental Police.

JUMP TO FILE #032617109 The device is towed behind or alongside a boat, while information is transmitted back to a surface laptop device that displays an image of the underwater landscape, allowing operators to easily mark underwater items which may be what they are searching for.

Following a device presentation at EdgeTech's Wareham building, where they assemble and ship

the devices, the members of PCTRT went on EdgeTech's boat out of New Bedford to get handson with the new 4125 Side Scan Sonar System.

A training module for the rest of the team will be implemented soon and the device will be ready to be deployed shortly after that.

This new device will cut down on the time it takes to locate persons who have gone missing in the water.

- PAT TRAVERS

WOMEN IN FIREFIGHTING

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

JOHN SJOSTEDT

Car Fire in Plymouth Plymouth, MA - On March 29th, firefighters responded to Whitting St. for the report of a car fire. First arriving companies found a vehicle with fire showing. A line was stretched and firefighters made an aggressive attack. Crews faced difficulties as the gas line was compromised and the fire had extended from the vehicle. Plymouth Tower-1 was called to the scene to assist. The fire was knocked down shortly after without further incident.

Duxbury, MA - Duxbury Firefighter/Paramedic Jennifer Baldock.

PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

PAGE 23

May, 2017

MASSACHUSETTS

Crew from Rescue-1 takes a breather.

K. LEGER

Afternoon Blaze in Fall River Fall River, MA - At approximately 12:45 P.M. on March 28th, firefighters responded to 676 Second Street for a report of smoke showing from a dwelling. Fire Alarm dispatched Engines 2, 4 and 5, along with Ladders 2 and 4, Heavy Rescue 1 and Car 3.

Engine 4 arrived on-scene and reported smoke showing. Car 3, under the Command of District Chief Jeff Bacon, arrived and reported a working fire on the thirdfloor of a three-story, wood-frame structure.

Command ordered Ladder 2 to vent the roof while the crews from Engines 4 and 5 stretched attack lines to the third-floor. Engine 2 tagged a hydrant and fed Engine 4 while the crew of Rescue 1 con-

JUMP TO FILE #032817109 ducted a primary search of the thirdfloor, which came up negative.

Ladder 2 was unable to use the aerial ladder due to high voltage power lines blocking access to the roof, so they were forced to use a 50-foot ground ladder to ventilate the heavy smoke from the building.

Firefighters made a quick stop and confined the fire damage to the third-floor.

Command called for fire investigators to respond, along with special services to provide rehab to firefighters.

- KENNETH LEGER

PETER LOBO

Man Dies After Falling from Ladder in Waltham Waltham, MA - Waltham Engine-7 and Med-1 responded on March 23rd to 427 Lincoln Street for reports of a man who fell two stories at a construction site. Upon arrival, crews from Engine-7 performed CPR on the injured man. While en-route, Deputy Chief Tony Capello requested Medflight and Rescue-1. The 54-year-old worker from Boston was taken by ambulance to Lahey Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

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PAGE 24

May, 2017

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

MASSACHUSETTS

Seven-Alarm Blaze Tears Through Vacant Rockland Warehouse Rockland, MA - At approximately 4:44 A.M. on the morning of Wednesday, March 22nd, the Rockland Fire Department received a call for a building fire at 76 Park Street, a vacant warehouse.

Companies arrived to the scene two minutes later and reported a fully-in- JUMP TO FILE# 032317111 volved building.

A second-alarm was immediately stuck by Captain Thomas Heaney, followed quickly by a third-alarm struck by Captain John Sammon. Crews reported a two-story, 200'x75', vacant warehouse going throughout. Captain Heaney reported that he had large embers falling in the street and on area residences. Two exposure residences were smoking upon his arrival. He reported during a press briefing, "It was the most impressive thing that I've ever seen."

Deck guns, big hand-lines and Blitz guns were immediately put into operation, attempting to knock down the large volume of fire and protect the exposures. Hydrants were utilized on each street surrounding the fire building. Incoming apparatus were instructed to lay in and protect exposures on the Webster Street side of the building, as they were very close to the fire building.

Rockland Police mobilized quickly and were able to evacuate upwards of 20 residences that were in danger of catching fire. Captain Heaney reported that the wind direction was helpful because if the wind had been facing the Webster Street residences, they would have had major exposure problems with upwards of 10 residences, a church and a nursing home.

Many houses on Webster Street suffered minor heat damage to siding. Some of the Webster Street residences' out buildings, garages and sheds did catch fire during the blaze. Residents were not allowed back into their homes for some time due to the concern of toxic smoke in their homes.

Firefighters and hazardous materials technicians cleared residences with meters before they were allowed to return.

Numerous special calls went in

Large embers showered the neighborhood, threatening upwards of 20-plus residences.

through Plymouth County Control during the fire, ultimately bringing the fire to a seventh-alarm. A Tier-1 Hazardous Materials Response was also requested due to air quality issues in the area. State resources onscene included the Incident Support Unit, Rehab Unit and the Hazardous Materials Team. The Whitman CERT Rehab unit also responded to the scene.

During a 7:00 A.M. press conference, Chief Scott Duffey reported that 11 engine companies, three ladder companies and three ambulances were on-scene working.

Two engine companies and one ladder company were in staging while additional companies covered firehouses around the South Shore, back filling for station coverage.

The Town of Rockland delayed all schools by two hours due to the fire. National Grid shut off the power to all buildings within a oneblock radius of the fire, as power lines had burned off of buildings during the fire.

Chief Scott Duffey reported that the building has been vacant for approximately six or seven years and that the department has been working with the building owner regarding the property, which was posted for sale. The building was also marked with several red "X" markings, meaning no interior firefighting allowed due to unsafe conditions in the building. All utilities had been shut off to the building for some time before the fire.

The Massachusetts State Fire Marshal's office had investigators on the scene interviewing witnesses and area residents regarding the blaze. In a press release, the Fire Marshal's office was requesting any early video and accounts of the fire so that they could better understand where the fire may have originated in the building, and then, what possibly caused the fire. Any early video or other information regarding the fire can be directed to the Rockland Police Department at 781-871-3890, or the State Fire

Marshal's Fire Investigation Unit at 800-682-9229.

Companies remained on-scene throughout the majority of the day continuing to extinguish the fire and knock down hidden pockets of fire.

Mutual aid companies remained onscene until around 7:00 P.M., some 16-plus hours since the fire was first

PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM

reported.

Fire crews and investigators were back on the scene the following morning continuing to investigate the possible cause of the fire.

As of the 7:00 A.M. press conference, no injuries were reported.

- PAT TRAVERS

PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM

Abington FF Derek Haimaidi positions a Blitz gun on Park Street.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

May, 2017

PAGE 25

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PAGE 26

May, 2017

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

MASSACHUSETTS

PETER LOBO

Residents Escape ThreeAlarm Apartment Fire in Waltham Waltham, MA - On March 27th, Waltham dispatch received a call for a fire at 4906 Stearns Hill Road with reports of a woman trapped inside. When firefighters arrived, smoke was seen coming out of a door.

Two individuals were found who had just escaped out of a second-story window by using a chain safety ladder. Coincidentally, the ladder was a gift given to one of the individuals who escaped and when his mother gave it to him, he questioned her as to what he would ever use it for.

The fire was in a large apart-

JUMP TO FILE #032817101 ment complex with limited access for apparatus. Long hoselines were required and three-alarms were transmitted, requiring eight engines, two ladders and one rescue from Waltham to respond. Newton, Belmont, Lincoln and Weston crews all helped to battle the fire.

It took about one-and-a-half hours to knock down the fire.

- PETER LOBO

A group shot of all those who attended the fundraiser at Damien's Pub.

PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM

Abington Firefighters Hold Annual “Mustache March for MDA” Event Hanson, MA - On Saturday, March 25th, Abington Firefighters Local 2080 held their annual Mustache March for MDA fundraiser at Damien's Pub in Hanson.

The annual fundraiser has participants grow mustaches for the month of March, each donating $20, with an early shave penalty of $10 added if the participant decides to shave prior to the end of the month.

Captain Jack Glynn, the MDA

JUMP TO FILE #032617108 representative for Abington Firefighters Local 2080, stated that the fundraiser raised $1210 in donations from all of the participants and proceeds from a 50/50 raffle that was held at the event.

Firefighters and dispatchers from Abington, Bridgewater, East

Bridgewater, Kingston, Norwell, the Plymouth County Sheriff's Department and Whitman participated in Mustache March.

Fox25's anchor Vanessa Welch was a special guest judge, along with two MDA representatives to give out superlative awards for some of the more unique mustaches that were sported at the event.

- PAT TRAVERS

BUDDY SHOTS

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

PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM

PETER LOBO

Rockland, MA - Hanover, MA Call-Firefighter Adam Flood with Whitman, MA Firefighter Jay Mahoney at a recent fire in Rockland.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

May, 2017

PAGE 27

PAGE 28

May, 2017

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

MASSACHUSETTS

JOHN SJOSTEDT

Kingston Firefighter Gallagher attempts to access the engine compartment.

Ladder-1 stretched to the roof.

PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM

Working House Fire in Duxbury

Kingston firefighters extinguish a car fire.

JOHN SJOSTEDT

Car Fire in Kingston

Kingston, MA - On March 20th, firefighters responded to the report of a car fire on Summer Street. First arriving units found a vehicle fully-involved in fire. Firefighters made an offensive attack and quickly knocked the fire down.

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Duxbury, MA - Shortly after 12:30 P.M. on the afternoon of Monday, March 20th, the Duxbury Fire Department responded to a reported building fire at 483 Temple Street, at the corner of Franklin Street. JUMP TO FILE# The box was struck 032017125 and Engine-3, Ladder-1 and Car-3 responded.

Companies arrived to find smoke and fire showing from the secondfloor of a one-and-a-half story, wood-framed, occupied dwelling.

All occupants were reported out of the house upon the fire department's arrival.

A Working Fire assignment was requested, bringing a Marshfield engine company to the scene and a Kingston engine to Duxbury Fire Headquarters for coverage.

Crews advanced a one-andthree-quarter inch hand-line into the dwelling and were able to quickly knock down the heavy fire.

A back up line was also brought into the building to assist in knocking down the fire and overhauling.

The ladder was extended to the roof, but firefighters did not open the roof up. The fire appeared to be contained to the "B/C" corner on the second-floor of the dwelling.

No injuries were reported to the occupants. The Duxbury Fire Department is currently seeking the cause of the fire. The Plymouth County Sheriff Department's BCI unit was requested to the scene to assist. The building inspector was also requested to the scene.

- PAT TRAVERS

PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM

A firefighter knocks down a pocket of fire in the window sill on the second-floor.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

May, 2017

PAGE 29

MASSACHUSETTS

Blaze Displaces Three Residents from Springfield Apartments Springfield, MA - A fast moving fire heavily damaged the occupied apartments of a two-and-a-half story, wood-frame, mixed use structure in the Old Hill section of the City of Springfield early in the afternoon of Wednesday, March 29th.

Firefighters were called to the address of 537-539 Union JUMP TO FILE# Street at 2:00 P.M. 033017100 for a reported structure fire and arrived on-scene to find heavy smoke pushing from the secondfloor of the occupied structure.

Companies stretched hand-lines to the second-floor of the building and made a valiant effort to knock down the fire, but were driven back when the fire took possession of the attic and began to break through the roof.

With a sustained wind blowing through the fire ground, Union Street command made the decision to withdraw personnel from the building and switch to a defensive attack mode for the better part of the next hour-and-a-half.

Once the bulk of the fire was knocked down from the exterior, crews re-entered the building to overhaul and check for extension.

The cause of the fire, which displaced three residents, remains under investigation.

- NATE ARNOLD

Members of Ladder 1 utilize a pike pole on the "Delta" side of the roof of 537 Union Street.

NATE ARNOLD

PET FRIENDS

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

K. LEGER

Fire in New Bedford Commercial Building

PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM

Norwell, MA - A firefighter's dog stands by and waits as his owner battles a working fire recently on Old Oaken Bucket Road.

New Bedford, MA - On Sunday afternoon, April 9th, firefighters responded to a commercial building at Shawmut Avenue and Potter Street. Firefighters arrived to a fully-involved structure and called for a second-alarm. Heavy black smoke could be seen from miles away as Fire Command called for Mutual Aid to respond to the now empty city fire stations. Command set up for defensive operations and placed ground monitor nozzles and ladder pipes in play to surround and drown the fire. Firefighters were concerned for nearby exposures at the height of the blaze, but were able to limit the damage to the surrounding properties.

PAGE 30

May, 2017

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

MASSACHUSETTS

Multiple Fires Keep Springfield's Bravest on the Jump Overnight Springfield, MA - A rash of arson fires and several accidental fires that occurred overnight, starting shortly before 9:00 P.M. on Saturday, March 11th and continuing into Sunday, March 12th, kept all Springfield firefighters on the run. The blaze reJUMP TO FILE# quired mutual aid 031417103 resources to fight a structure fire in the City of Springfield alongside city resources for the first time in nearly a decade.

The night started off with a relatively (or so it seemed) small trash fire in the hallway of an occupied apartment complex at 282 Union Street. This fire was knocked down quickly with little structural damage, but was deemed suspicious due to the location in the hallway. Then, a room and contents fire on Marion Street kept companies out of quarters for another hour or so.

Shortly after midnight, crews were called back to Union Street, this time to the apartment complex that is attached to 282 Union for another fire in the hallway, this time on the second-floor.

Again, the fire was knocked down quickly with minor damage. The night then quieted down until 5:00 A.M., when companies were called to 185 Hancock Street for a reported structure fire.

A fire that started on the second-floor porch in the rear had extended into the two-and-a-half story, wood-frame dwelling and quickly spread to the neighboring home. This fire required a full second-alarm assignment to bring it under control. The work was not yet done though.

Just as second-alarm companies were starting to pack up on Hancock Street, dispatchers sent any available resources, including mutual aid from the West Springfield and Chicopee Fire Departments, to 123 Andrew Street around 5:45 A.M. for a reported structure fire.

Companies arrived on-scene to find an occupied two-story, wood-frame, single-family dwelling well-involved in fire.

Four Springfield engine companies and one ladder company operated on-scene with an engine from West Springfield and ladder company from Chicopee for several hours to knock down this fire.

The home was a total loss, but investigators identified the point of origin as being a flower pot on the front porch that was used as an ashtray. Several of the earlier fires however were deemed as intentionally set and are currently under investigation.

The "Bravo" side of 123 Andrew Street as Ladder-9 gets their aerial into position.

NATE ARNOLD

- NATE ARNOLD

View of the remains of two Hancock Street homes that were heavily damaged shortly after 5:00 A.M. on March 12th.

NATE ARNOLD

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

May, 2017

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May, 2017

Pastor Fernando Villicana, Fire Service Chaplain.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

RICHARD BILLINGS

PROVIDED

Local Heroes Chaplain's Corner

Pastor Fernando Villicana

Isaiah 3:1 (NIV) See now, the Lord, the Lord Almighty, is about to take from Jerusalem and Judah both supply and support… v2 the hero and the warrior, the judge and the prophet, the diviner and the elder, v3 the captain of fifty and the man of rank, the counselor, skilled craftsman and clever.

It’s interesting to me how God uses heroes as part of the supply and support structure of society.

As part of His judgement, God removes key people who are essential for a society to thrive. The removal of “heroes” leaves a huge vacuum in that city. Who are the “heroes” described in Isaiah? Well, to be honest, the Bible doesn’t give us specifics on the matter.

However, what is clear is that they are a vital part of the health and all being of that society and are mentioned first in a list of essentials.

If I were to address a group of Firefighters and ask all the “heroes” in the room to stand - few, if any, would respond. Why? Because if you refer to any Firefighter, Paramedic, EMT or Fire Support staff as a hero, they would not want to be identified as such and would most likely tell you that they are just doing their job. Well, they may think they're “just doing their job,” but the fact is that they are a critical part of the fabric of our society.

-When a mother cries out for help and dials 911.

-When a prayer goes out from under the wreckage of a TC. -When a family member is experiencing a full arrest.

-When first responders roll up on scene of an MCI on the freeway.

-When prayers are being uttered as a citizen is experiencing maybe the very worst day in their lives.

Our Firefighters/Paramedics/EMTs are Gods answer to those prayers.

It's not what you do, it's who you are. You are our local heroes.

“Hard times don't create heroes. It is during the hard times when the 'hero' within us is revealed.” (Bob Riley) It’s not just what you do, it’s who you are! You are a special breed of people who rise to the occasion every shift to answer the call for help. You are our local heroes.

PRAYER: God, we come to you today with a sense of pride yet humbled by the fact that you care for us and are mindful of us. Proud of what you have been able to do through our Fire Departments - humbled and grateful for the strength and skill you have bestowed upon each first responder. A skill which enables them to do what they do to help those in need. We know that your word declares that “without You, we can do nothing.” I pray that your hand of protection would be upon each Firefighter as they place themselves in harms way and continually stand in the gap for the citizens of our cities. We thank you Lord, and pray with the faith that “when they walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.”

(Isaiah 43:2b) We pray that you would reveal yourself to each and every one of our heroes as they become tools in your hand. We pray all of this in the name of the Father the Son and the Holy Spirit AMEN

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1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

May, 2017

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May, 2017

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

MASSACHUSETTS

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.

JIM FORTIN JR.

Early Morning Second-Alarm in Hudson

LT. MICHAEL GONYNOR

This patch belongs to Company 4 of the Dudley, MA Fire Department.

PETER LOBO

Hundreds Attend Funeral for Fallen Watertown FF Joseph Toscano Watertown, MA - A funeral was held on March 22nd for fallen Watertown Firefighter Joseph Toscano, who was killed in the line-of-duty on March 17th during a two-alarm fire at 29 Merrifield Avenue. Waltham firefighters were among hundreds of other firefighters from around the state who attended the funeral.

Hudson, MA - The Hudson FD was dispatched to 131 Forrest Ave. for a structure fire at 1:30 A.M. on March 20th. Companies arrived to find heavy fire showing from the "C/D" corner of a split-level type residence. Multiple hand-lines were stretched to make an attack on the fire. A second-alarm was struck to bring crews from Berlin, Marlborough and Stow to the scene. Companies made an aggressive attack and had the bulk of the fire knocked down in 45 minutes.

Crews were faced with extensive overhaul and all companies were tied up for a couple of hours.

The residents made it out of the house prior to fire crews' arrival.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

May, 2017

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May, 2017

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

MASSACHUSETTS

Mass Notification - Paul Revere or the Click of a Button?

by Chief Joel Miller

Back in the good ol’ days, mass notification was fairly simple. All it took was one call to the local television and radio stations by a confirmed source and the news would appear on the screen, or echo across the air ways. Of course, that was during the era when everyone watched their local television channels and listened to local radio stations. A more simple time when satellite radio was just a dream and the local stores and businesses didn’t have piped-in-music from corporate office on the other side of the country.

Today’s world is a completely different environment, where technology has made things quite different.

Most everyone now has satellite television, Amazon Fire sticks, Netflix, or some other type of non-local televised entertainment. Not to mention that radio now has satellite, Pandora, Spotify, and many more listening options, such as a personal playlist on our phones that sounds through the car stereo system, minus the advertisements of course. The masses cannot be notified of local news if the mass amount of the population isn’t tuned in to local broadcasting.

So how does your department notify the masses when there is an emergency or evacuation situation in progress? Do we need to revert back to the days of Paul Revere and ride through the streets yelling “Haz Mat situation at intersection of 3rd and Oak! Avoid the area and shelter in place if you are in a three block radius of the incident.” Sounds a little crazy, doesn’t it. I don’t think we can go back to those days since no one would even hear us from inside their well-insulated homes and automobiles. As you already know, the masses can’t even hear a Federal Q siren blaring from behind them in traffic.

Today, the fire service does not have to ride through the streets on horseback yelling, nor do we have to reinvent the wheel. It’s as simple as the click of a button on your smart phone. That’s right. In a couple of easy steps, you can notify hundreds,

even thousands of people, along with television stations and radio outlets of an emergency situation, all while instructing the population of what they need to do.

What is the name of this wonderful device? Social Media! That’s right, and it’s FREE! You have the power of real time notification at your fingertips. Hold your own press release live with Periscope, Facebook Live, or Instagram Live. You can give people the most current and up-to-date information with a quick Tweet on Twitter, just like President Trump. You have the same power as the President of the United States!

Okay, maybe that’s a little exaggerated, but you do have the same power on Twitter.

Cal Fire uses Periscope for situational updates and daily fire reports during wildland fire season. You hold the power to report local news to the citizens of your bustling metropolis, down to your one horse town, giving them the latest and most crucial information in real time without even making a phone call, or waiting for someone to approve the interruption of Days of Our Lives, or Taylor Swift belting out “ Shake it Off.” Okay, okay……maybe it’s not quite that easy and now you have some work to do. Your department will need to choose the social media outlet that best fits their needs and start building a following. The reality is that almost everyone has a smart phone with them almost 24/7. Most jump every time someone starts a live broadcast or updates their online status.

Social Media has three great characteristics that the fire department administration will love. First, IT'S FREE! Second, it’s easy to use. And third, there are multiple options available. There are even social media consults, like myself, that can help you build and execute a plan.

So, tap into social media now and be the new Paul Revere when you need mass notification. “The fire department is coming! The fire department is coming!”

Firefighter SanGiovanni having his badge pinned on by his mother, Becky SanGiovanni, while Chief Norman Clarke Jr. looks on.

HARWICH FD

Harwich FD Holds Swearing-In Ceremony Harwich, MA – The Harwich Fire Department held a swearing in ceremony on April 11th at the Robert A Peterson Firehouse for new Firefighter Daniel SanGiovanni.

SanGiovanni, a firefighter/emergency medical technician, who has worked as a provisional firefighter with the department since December, was hired to fill a recent vacancy.

Chief Norman Clarke Jr. presided over the ceremony and Harwich Town Clerk Anita Doucette performed the swearing

JUMP TO FILE #041117126 in. Firefighter SanGiovanni had his badge pinned on by his mother, Becky SanGiovanni. A common theme of the comments during the ceremony was commitment, service and sacrifice, and how today signified the beginning, not the end, of a journey.

"Today isn’t an ending, but a beginning…one that will require a lifetime of preparation, training,

vigilance and sacrifice. It will also provide you with a lifetime of satisfaction, knowing that whenever someone in Harwich called, you stepped up and said, “I am with the Fire Department and I am here to help.”

The ceremony was attended by friends, family and town officials.

A small gathering immediately followed the ceremony, with refreshments provided by the Harwich Fire Association.

- HARWICH FD

PETER LOBO

Waltham Firefighters Contain Oil Leak on Charles River

PROVIDED

Waltham, MA - On March 21st, Waltham firefighters responded to an oil leak under the Prospect Street bridge. They launched two boats to both contain the oil, and absorb it. It took about two hours to clean up the spill and there were no adverse affects to the Charles River.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

May, 2017

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MASSACHUSETTS

PROVIDED

Somerset's water tower.

K. LEGER

Five-Alarm Strikes Commercial Plaza in Somerset Somerset, MA - A late afternoon fire consumed a commercial plaza housing several businesses, including a firearms dealer, on April 9th. Somerset firefighters arrived to find heavy smoke showing from the one-story, wood-frame structure.

Firefighters forced entry and were greeted by high heat and smoke banked down to the floor.

Command called for a secondalarm and ordered all units on the fire ground to go defensive with exterior operations.

Command rapidly called for additional alarms with a heavy Mutual Aid response to the scene and to fill in at the empty town fire station. Aerial ladder trucks were special called to the scene to provide water tower operations.

Swansea and Fall River ladder trucks joined Somerset's ladder to surround and drown the heavy fire.

JUMP TO FILE #041017128 One of the businesses located in the plaza was Commonwealth Arms and during the height of the fire, stored ammunition began to cook off and sounded like popcorn popping. Command had to deal with water supply issues at the beginning of the incident, requiring Mutual Aid engine companies to tag hydrants on a nearby grid in order to supply the fire ground with the needed water.

Command called for the State Fire Marshal's Office to respond.

Mutual Aid rehab units were also called in to provide for the hundreds of firefighters who responded to the scene.

- KENNETH LEGER

"Run To Remember" Boston Bringing Back First Responder Challenge for Half Marathon on May 28th Boston, MA – The "Run To Remember" Boston road race through the city’s historic downtown will again feature a First Responder Challenge, pitting teams of police, fire and other first responders nationwide in the half marathon at the Memorial Day weekend event, organizers announced.

Run to Remember Boston's half marathon and 5-mile races both start at the Seaport World Trade Center in downtown Boston on Sunday, May 28th. This is the 13th year for the charity event, created as a tribute to Massachusetts law enforcement officers killed in the line-of-duty. From the Seaport World Trade Center, the scenic loop courses wind through historic downtown Boston, with the half marathon crossing over the Charles River along Memorial Drive in Cambridge before looping back.

The First Responder Challenge consists of teams with a minimum of five runners from any first responder department in the U.S. competing in the half marathon for a chance to win bragging rights and split a cash prize of $10,000 among the top three teams for the charity of their choice. Race organizers are also excited to announce an additional prize of $1,000 for the top department with 250 or fewer active members.

“We just had our Los Angeles (Run to Remember) race and the First Responder Challenge was really popular, so we’re hoping Boston meets the challenge,” Race Director Steve Balfour said. “The invitation is open to any first responders, including firefighters,

JUMP TO FILE #040717116 paramedics and EMTs, from New England and across the country who want to take part.”

Last year in Boston, the First Responder Challenge was won by the New York Police Department, followed by the Boston Police Department and the Massachusetts State Police. Prior to 2016, the challenge was known as the Law Enforcement Challenge and was limited to police departments only.

Race officials expanded the program last year to honor a wider net of the public servants who put their lives on the line to protect others, Balfour said. "After transitioning last year to the expanded First Responder Challenge, the goal for 2017 is to raise awareness among non-police departments and get more teams of first responders involved in Run to Remember Boston," he added.

"In creating this fun but competitive event, we want to shine a spotlight on these heroes and the important work that they do,” Balfour said. “We’re hoping to see as many teams of first responders as possible take part on May 28th, representing their departments, their communities and each other.

Come on, let’s see what you’ve got.!”

In addition to the top three teams, last year’s First Responder Challenge also included teams from Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Coast Guard, Boston Fire Department, MBTA Transit

Police, Connecticut State Police, the Massachusetts Department of Corrections and police departments in Chelmsford, Braintree, Watertown, Methuen and Salem (N.H.).

For more info on the challenge, please contact Brigit at BostonRunToRemember@gmail.com Registration for the half marathon and 5-mile events at Run to Remember Boston is ongoing at www.BostonsRunToRemember.co m. Organizers are urging runners to sign up soon, as the popular Memorial Day weekend event is already half full.

Run to Remember Boston is produced by a handful of police officers, detectives and their supporters who volunteer their time to create, organize and manage the race. Proceeds benefit the community and children’s programs of the police department running club.

Last year, just over 9,000 runners crossed the finish line in the two races. Major sponsors include the City of Boston Credit Union, New Balance, Star Market, Shaw’s and CBS Radio Mix 104.1.

For those who cannot run this year but want to take part, donations may be made to Run To Remember Boston and sent to P.O. Box 664, North Berwick, ME 03906. People can also take part in the race virtually by registering as a virtual participant and running a distance and at a time of their choice. Visit the website for more information.

- RUN TO REMEMBER BOSTON NEWS

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May, 2017

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

VERMONT

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.

An MVR worker and a Swanton Firefighter at the scene of the two-car MVA.

GREG RAMSDELL

Two-Car Crash with Minor Injuries in Swanton

Bennington Rural Fire Department, located in Bennington County, VT. EUGENE WEBER JR.

Swanton, VT - On March 17th at approximately 11:45 A.M., the Swanton Fire Department, along with Missisquoi Valley Rescue (MVR) and the Vermont State Police (VSP), responded to the intersection of Route 105 and Viens Road for a two-car crash with minor injuries. One patient was transported to a local hospital by MVR with a hand and chest injury. All other patients signed off and refused transport. The accident is under investigation by VSP.

DRILLS/TRAINING

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

GREG RAMSDELL

Car Loses Control for Over 100-Feet Before Rolling Over

HYDE PARK TOWN FIRE DEPT.

Hyde Park, VT - On March 25th, units from the Hyde Park Town, North Hyde Park Eden, Morrisville, Elmore, Wolcott and Cambridge Fire Departments, along with Northern Emergency Medical Services, conducted a live fire training burn. Members attending took a short break during the burn for a group picture.

Swanton, VT - At approximately 4:43 P.M. on April 11th, Missisquoi Valley Rescue (MVR) Units 1 and 2, along with the Swanton Fire Department and Vermont State Police (VSP), responded to Interstate 89 northbound, near mile-marker 120.2, for a one-car rollover. The car was traveling northbound when it lost control and rolled down an approximate 30-foot embankment, striking trees along the way before finally coming to a rest on its roof. Three patients were transported to a local hospital by MVR Units 1 and 2. VSP is investigating the accident. From where the car first lost control to the point it came to rest was over 100-feet. Injuries sustained ranged from head and leg lacerations, to other unknown injuries.

1ST Responder Newspaper - NE

May, 2017

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1ST Responder Newspaper - NE