Fire News, Southern New England edition, January 2019

VOLUME 6, NO. 7

W W W .FIRENE WS .COM

Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Since 1973 JANUARY 2019

See story on page 38.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

Happy & Safe New Year From The Staff At Fire News -Southern New England Edition-

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Fire News, January 2019, Page 3

In this issue...

Families Displaced in Lynn 2-Alarmer Lynn (MA) firefighters battled a twoalarm fire in a large, occupied tripledecker on Grover Street.

See story on page 6

Warwick Church Fire Goes to 4 Alarms On a frigid night, the Warwick (RI) Fire Department responded to a fire in the Woodbury Union Church.

See story on page 12

Lightning Strike Destroys Wakefield Church The steeple of the 150-year-old First Baptist Church in Wakefield (MA) was struck by lightning.

See story on page 13

12 Displaced by Waterbury Blaze Waterbury (CT) Fire fights a structure fire on Waterville Street .

See story on page 14

Fatality at Haddam MVA The Haddam Volunteer Fire Company responds to a head-on collision with entrapment.

See story on page 23

Obituary

A Service for Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island Firefighters and EMS Providers Founded 1973

146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713

FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher TIM EDWARDS, Executive Editor DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor GARY P. JOYCE, Asst. Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production/Sales CLIFF CHIESA, Art Director/Production Manager Advertising Sales: BARBARA CONNOLLY, Graphic Artists: GREG JONES, LYNN SEDLER CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS ALAN BRACKETT, AMANDA CARMODY, THOMAS CARMODY, OWEN CARRIGAN, ROGER CONANT, KEVIN CZARZASTY, JOHN DEFOREST, TIM DELANEY, ROB DILLON, PATRICK DOOLEY, DOUG DOW, OLIVIA DRAKE, GLENN DUDA, LIZ FEITELBERG, JIM FORTIN, JR., SEAN FREIMAN, TIM GORMAN, JOHN HANLEY, ED HARVEY, JEFFREY HASTINGS, STEPHEN HESS, MIKE IPPOLITO, DORRANCE “DOC” JOHNSON, RICK KULMANN, KEN LABELLE, ROBERT LADD, MICHAEL LAPRADE, SCOTT LAPRADE, PAUL LAROCHELLE, JR., KEN LEGER, CHARLIE MCGRATH, KEITH MURATORI, BOB MYERS, RICK NOHL, BILL NOONAN, PETER OSTROSKEY JR., CHRIS PALMER, JIM PERUTA, PETER POZERSKI, GLENN PRESTON, ROB REARDON, LARRY RILEY, DICK SCIALABBA, PAUL SHEA, JOE SHEFER, NICK STEHN, CHRIS STEINES, RICK SUSI, KEVIN TAPPE, JON TENCA, PAT TRAVERS, STEPHEN WALSH, DEVON WHALEN, KEVIN WHITE, MICHAEL YOUNG COPYRIGHT 2018, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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Leominster’s Deputy Chief Luigi Barassi See story on page 28

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Page 4, Fire News, January 2019

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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor

2019; A Year to Recommit As life seems to move by faster and faster, it is hard to believe that 2019 has arrived. A few days ago, I sat back and gave thought to some of the concerns I have about the fire service. Response has become an issue for many volunteer fire departments. The worst thing you can do is to ignore staffing and response issues. Urban, suburban and rural demands for response are all different.

However, in the end, the oath we took to protect life, property and the environment is what matters. The time has come for you, the department member, to reevaluate your oath and ask yourself if you are truly committed to living up to what you are expected to do as a volunteer firefighter. I know we are living in complicated times. Members are challenged to find the time to constantly train, maintain equipment, meet their recommended Best Practices for Fire Department Training Programs, and respond to a required amount of calls. You must understand that for many, being a volunteer firefighter is like having a second or third full-time job.

I compliment those of you who have put their hand up to become part of the volunteer fire service. Thank you for finding the time to do an outstanding job of raising a family, work your job, and still volunteer as first responders in your community. The reality is that the

number of volunteer firefighters is dropping.

In New York State the number of volunteer responders has dropped from 110,000 in 1990 to 84,000 by 2010, mirroring national trends.

Thanks to various state organizations, efforts have been made to recruit and retain new members. Visit FASNY.com and look at their RecruitNY program.

One of the problems with new recruits is that they soon realize their heart is in the right place, but the reality of meeting today’s rigorous training schedule may not be as easy as it appeared when they signed up to become part of the your department.

There are approximately 1,160,400 firefighters serving in 27,198 fire departments nationwide and responding to emergencies from 58,150 fire stations. Of those firefighters, 30 percent were career firefighters and 70 percent were volunteers. As the number of calls increases each year, departments are giving thought to combination departments.

Many departments have met their EMS needs by having paid crews available 24hours a day, seven-days a week. Yet, departments still have to be creative to answer multiple EMS calls that happen when the paid crew is not available.

In 2019, I ask that all volunteer first responders give thought to their dedication

and commitment to the communities that they serve. Being a first responder is not a joke and requires that you take your job seriously. Whether you live in an area that has a full-time paid fire department, a combination department or an all-volunteer fire department, the job is the same. In 2019, take the time to recommit yourself to protecting the life and property of the people you serve, along with protecting our environment.

Have a safe, healthy and happy new year!

Dennis

Page 6, Fire News, January 2019

Families Displaced in Lynn 2-Alarmer

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Lynn (MA) firefighters battled a two-alarm fire in a large, occupied triple-decker on Grover Street on Thanksgiving night, November 22, 2018. On arrival, firefighters had heavy fire showing from the second and third floors and into the cockloft. A second alarm was requested. With the fire raging on the top floors, a decision to transition into a defensive attack was made, and all firefighters were pulled. Multiple big lines and several ladder pipes were used to knock the fire down.The Red Cross was on scene assisting the displaced families.

- Fire News photos by Kevin White and Rick Nohl

West Haven 3-Alarmer For the second day in a row, West Haven firefighters fought a multi-alarm apartment fire. The fire, on November 19, 2018, on Canton Street, was on the third floor of an apartment complex in the Allingtown section of the city. Companies arrived to an advanced fire in a third-floor apartment. An attempt to use the standpipe was negated by an inoperable standpipe. A second alarm was transmitted.

Firefighters were hampered by Collyer’s Mansion conditions in the fire apartment. Truck companies conducted searches and reported three roofs built up during topside ventilation. The fire took about a halfhour to knock down after all the obstacles were overcome. All occupants were accounted for, though several suffered smoke inhalation.

- Fire News photo by Glenn Duda, CFPA

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Fire News, January 2019, Page 7

24 Displaced in Lowell 4-Alarmer

On November 22, 2018, battling extremely frigid temperatures, firefighters in Lowell (MA), responded to a four-alarm fire in three dwellings. Approximately 24 people were displaced by the fires.

- Fire News photos by Scott LaPrade and Rick Nohl

Page 8, Fire News, January 2019

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Stamford Refuse Facility Fire Just after 0315, on October 4, 2018, Stamford (CT) firefighters were dispatched to Taylor Reed Place for the report of a fire in a refuse facility. Police could see smoke and fire coming from the building. Firefighters from Stamford and Glenbrook arrived to find a large pile of refuse burning. Lines were stretched and a tower ladder was put into operation to knock down the rest of the hard-to-reach fire while employees from the refuse center pulled apart the pile.

- Fire News photo by Jon Tenca

Newport 2-Alarmer On October 21, 2018, Newport (RI) firefighters responded to Powel Avenue for a house fire.

Firefighters arrived to smoke and fire showing from an occupied, 2-1/2 story house. As crews stretched lines inside, they found an advanced fire that was spreading in the walls and ceilings. A second alarm was struck and mutual aid requested from the Newport Navy Base, Middletown and Jamestown. As the fire broke through the roof, the IC ordered the evacuation of all firefighters and prepared for defensive operations. Two ladder pipes and several lines were able to knock down the heavy fire. Firefighters were then allowed back inside to extinguish any remaining pockets of fire. No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire was under investigation.

- Fire News photo by Tom Carmody

Good Saves in Brockton On August 17, 2018, just after 0530 Brockton (MA) FAO received a Central Station Residential Alarm and Engine 12 (acting Ladder 2) responded. UUnits arrived to heavy fire showing from a large 2-1/2 story wood frame . Several residents were trapped on a top floor porch.

Engine 12 requested a full Box Alarm and Engines 2, 4 and Ladder 4 were assigned. Engine 12 quickly struck a second alarm as rescues were being made. Engines 5, 7, Squad A and Ladder 1 were dispatched. Car 56 arrived and took command as second-alarm crews arrived and stretched several handlines to the first and second floors. Ladder 4’s aerial, as well as two ground ladders, were used to remove the tenants. Ladder 1 raised their aerial and opened the roof. Engine 3 was special called for water supply. Brewster Ambulance provided EMS to the rescued people. - Fire News photos by Bob Myers

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Page 10, Fire News, January 2019

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Cars Destroyed in Shelton Garage Fire On October 9, 2018, Shelton Fire Companies 5, 3 and 1 were dispatched to Rodia Ridge Road for a house fire. Units found heavy fire showing from a two-car attached garage. The fire quickly spread up the side of the two-story home and extended into a second-floor room and into the attic. Three vehicles were destroyed in the fire.

- Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com

Quick Knockdown in North Providence Firefighters from the North Providence (RI) Fire Department responded to Audubon Avenue for a fire on the second floor of dwelling on October 5, 2018. Rescue 2 arrived to report heavy fire showing from Division 2 on the Alpha side. Deputy Chief Dan Usenia ordered a transitional attack to knock the heavy fire down before entering the dwelling. The fire was quickly knocked down once crews made the fire floor.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

West End Fire in Hartford Hartford firefighters responded to a fire on Madison Avenue in the city’s West End on October 9, 2018.

- Fire News photo by Jim Peruta, CFPA

Double Fatality at Southwick Blaze A double-fatal house fire took place on Bugbee Road in Southwick (MA) on September 29, 2018, just before 0630.

Mutual aid came from Westfield, Suffield (CT), East Granby (CT) and Granville.

- Fire News photo by John DeForest

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Page 12, Fire News, January 2019

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Good Stop in Seekonk The Seekonk (MA) Fire Department made quick work of heavy fire in a dwelling on Central Avenue on December 4, 2018. Crews were able to keep fire spread to the dwelling to a minimum.

One occupant was transported for smoke inhalation.

- Fire News photo by Tim Delaney

Warwick Church Fire Goes to 4 Alarms On a frigid November 21, 2018, the Warwick (RI) Fire Department responded to a fire in the Woodbury Union Church on Beach Avenue. Engine 6 arrived to heavy fire on the Delta side of the single-story, wood frame church. Lt Cembor ordered the working fire. His crew aggressively worked to get a knock on the fire as other companies arrived. The incident commander let his crew work in an offensive manner for about 30 minutes before pulling them out to go defensive. The fire broke through the roof and steeple as soon as crews were safely evacuated. Eventually, four alarms were struck to bring the fire under control. Three ladder pipes and several big lines were used to knock down the fire.

- Fire News photos by Ken LaBelle and Tom Carmody

Southborough Fire Goes to 3-Alarms The Southborough (MA) Fire Department was alerted for a reported fire in a residence on Wyndemere Drive at 0700 on November 15, 2018. First arriving units found smoke showing from the roof of a large, wood frame, residential structure. A second alarm was quickly requested to bring in surrounding towns. Crews stretched multiple handlines to the upper floor where they found fire in the attic. Firefighters had a difficult time accessing the fire, but had the majority of the flames knocked down in 30 minutes. A third alarm was eventually called to bring in relief crews. Companies remained on scene for extensive overhaul. No injuries were reported and the cause was under investigation.

- Fire News photo by Jim Fortin

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Fire News, January 2019, Page 13

Lightning Strike Destroys Wakefield Church

The steeple of the 150-year-old First Baptist Church at Main Street and Lafayette Street in Wakefield (MA) was struck by lightning at about 1900 on October 23, 2018.

Within a very short time, the entire historic church was fully involved, and the roof began to collapse. Seven alarms were sounded in rapid succession bringing firefighters from many neighboring communities to assist the Wakefield Fire Department.

- Fire News photos by Owen Carrigan, Rick Nohl and Kevin White

Page 14, Fire News, January 2019

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12 Displaced by Waterbury Blaze Waterbury (CT) Fire was dispatched for a structure fire on Waterville Street on the afternoon of November 23, 2018. Car 5 reported heavy fire conditions on the first floor of a 2-1/2 story, wood frame, occupied, multiple-family structure. The fast-moving fire spread to all floors and through the roof. Due to the conditions, a defensive attack was ordered.

The fire self-vented through the roof and was brought under control after about 90 minutes. Companies remained on scene for hours wetting down the hot spots. Twelve residents were displaced and received assistance from the Red Cross. There were no injuries.

- Fire News photo by Kevin Czarzasty

Leicester House Fire Leicester firefighters responded to a fire on McCarthy Avenue in Leicester shortly after midnight on September 19, 2018. The call was received from a medical alarm monitoring central station reporting a building fire. Companies arrived to find fire in the occupied home. All occupants made it out safely.

A second alarm was sounded to bring in more personnel.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

Broken Gas Line at Manchester Auto Fire Manchester (CT) firefighters responded to an auto fire on Cooper Street on October 19, 2018. The fire was difficult to put out as the fuel line broke and kept feeding the fire.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

Yantic Fire Flashes Across Ceiling The Yantic (CT) Fire Department struck two alarms for a fire on the ceiling in a large commercial laundry facility in their district. The flash fire swept across the lint-covered ceiling and came short of igniting roofing materials above, but generated a heavy smoke condition inside the building. Aerial apparatus from Taftville, East Great Plain and Bozrah were brought to the scene, as well as two extra engines, but remained in staging as members went to the roof.

There were no reported injuries.

- Fire News photo by Joe Shefer

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Fire News, January 2019, Page 15

At Least 3 Injured in Pawtucket Mill Collapse On the morning of October 22, 2018, the Pawtucket (RI) Fire Department responded to a mill on Esten Street for a partial collapse with people trapped.

On arrival, crews found a partial collapse of the second floor into the basement and three workers trapped. Prior to firefighters arrival, two of the workers were assisted from the collapse by other people working at the site. The last of the trapped workers was more heavily trapped and was rescued by crews from Pawtucket Fire. All three were taken to Rhode Island Hospital with unknown injuries. OSHA investigators were on scene to perform an investigation.

- Fire News photo by Tom Carmody

Arson Ring in Pittsfield Firefighters responded to a two-alarm fire in Pittsfield (MA) on September 22, 2018. This would be the first in four back-to-back fires in one evening. A 58-year-old suspect was taken into custody at the Vermont/Canadian border for the four fires.

- Fire News photo by iberkshires.com

Page 16, Fire News, January 2019

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Quick Stop in Vernon Vernon (CT) firefighters responded to Allison Road on October 17, 2018, for a house fire. On arrival, fire was through the roof in one section of the rear addition of the house. Members made a quick stop on the fire.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

A Busy 24 in Hartford On August 19, 2018, the Hartford (CT) Fire Department responded to Westbourne Parkway for a reported structure fire with a party trapped on the roof. First arriving companies reported smoke showing on arrival. The fire was brought under control with no injuries reported. This was the second working fire in 24 hours.

- Fire News photo by Nick Peruta

Webster Blaze Quickly Subdued

On October 17, 2018, Webster (MA) firefighters were notified of smoke coming from a building on Poland Street. Responding firefighters requested a second alarm prior to arrival. Engine 3 stretched a handline to the first-floor kitchen area. The attack made good progress, but with the balloon frame construction, the fire had gained considerable headway. Mutual aid companies from Dudley, Oxford, Southbridge and Douglas arrived, and began to stretch additional handlines to the fire, which had spread throughout the two-story structure and into the attic. The occupant of the dwelling had escaped before responders arrived. There were no reported injuries.

- Fire News photo by Alan Brackett

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Page 18, Fire News, January 2019

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All Men Are Created Equal ‌ And Then Some Become Firefighters

After a weekends worth of being run ragged from the gas explosions/fire of September 13. 2018, Lawrence (MA) firefighters battled a three-alarm fire at a large condo complex on September 16.

With manpower still stretched thin from the gas explosions, an initial response of Engines 7 and 9 with Ladder 5 and Deputy Chief McInnis in Car 21 responded. Upon arrival, C21 reported nothing showing from a large 3-1/2 story apartment building. As companies made entry, a smoke condition was reported in an apartment on the second floor. Ladder 4, Engine 6 and Rescue 1 were all added as they became available from other runs. As crews stretched multiple lines, fire began blowing out the rear windows of the fire apartment and was extending to the third floor and sideways to a neighboring

apartment. After requesting an engine and ladder for RIT, C21 requested a second alarm and, with interior companies reporting conditions deteriorating, a third alarm was struck. A decision was made to evacuate the building in favor of a defensive attack.

Firefighters worked for the next hour using multiple lines and a ladder pipe to knock the fire down before transitioning back to an interior attack, pulling ceilings, opening up walls and chasing hot spots throughout the affected apartments. Mutual aid came from as far away as Westwood, Norwood, Walpole and Franklin, among others.

Originally wary it was another gas fire, it appeared the fire was possibly caused by a malfunctioning appliance inside the apartment of origin.

- Fire News photo by Kevin White

Nice Stop in Middleborough Firefighters made a great stop of a fire in Middleborough (MA).

The fire was on an exterior wall on the B side and extended into the attic.

- Fire News photo by John Sjostedt

New Britain 2-Alarmer On October 23, 2018, New Britain (CT) firefighters responded to the second-alarm fire on Broad Street in New Britain. While en route, the dispatcher informed the shift commander that they were receiving multiple calls and a report of a trapped person.

The fire was confined to several rooms on the top floor.

- Fire News photo By Jim Peruta, CFPA

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Fire News, January 2019, Page 19

2-Alarmer in Fall River On October 6, 2018, at approximately 1345, Fall River (MA) firefighters responded to Cottage Street for a fire in a three-story wood frame with heavy fire showing from the second and third floors. The fire went to a second alarm and firefighters made a great stop considering conditions on arrival.

- Fire News photo by Ken Leger

Bridgeport All-Hands On October 4, 2018, the Bridgeport (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to Willow Street for a structure fire. First units found heavy fire showing from the first floor of a two-story brick residence. The fire appeared to be running the whole first floor of the D-side apartment. The fire was quickly knocked down and the assignment was held to an all-hands. There were no reported injuries from the blaze.

- Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com

Well Involved in Oxford On October 22, 2018, Oxford (MA) firefighters responded to a fire on Millbury Avenue. The rear of the building was well involved upon arrival. A second alarm was sounded as the house sits outside of the hydrant district.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

Fire Held to Garage in Leicester Leicester (MA) firefighters responded to a two-alarm fire on Cricklewood Drive. The fire was reported to be in the attached garage. First arriving companies made a terrific stop on the fire and held it to the garage. The house sustained some smoke damage.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

Page 22, Fire News, January 2019

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Empty House Goes in Avon

Commercial Fire in Groton

A second alarm was struck for a fully involved, unoccupied dwelling on October 19, 2018, in Avon (MA). Mutual aid came from Holbrook, Stoughton and Randolph while Brockton covered Avon headquarters.

- Fire News photo by Bob Myers

The Groton (CT) Fire Department responded to a call for smoke from the roof of a commercial facility. On arrival a second-alarm assignment was requested. Firefighters had to cut and remove roofing and insulation materials that had ignited from the inside of the plant. The Poquonnock Bridge (CT) Fire Department was assisted by the Sub Base Department, New London Fire Department, Center Groton, Mystic, Olde Mystic, Gales Ferry, and Mohegan Tribal FAST. - Fire News photo by Joe Shefer

Quick Stop in New Haven

South Providence House Fire ... Again

On November 15, 2018, New Haven (CT) firefighters made quick work of an attic apartment fire in a two-story wood frame on Carlisle Street. The fire was confined to the room and contents with no extensions. Two lines were stretched and operated.

- Fire News photo by Glenn Duda, CFPA

Woburn 2-Alarmer

Woburn (MA) firefighters responded to a two-alarm fire on Pleasant Street on September 28, 2018. Stoneham Ladder 1 responded on mutual aid.

- Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan

A South Providence (RI) dwelling on Rutland Street was the scene of another second alarm of fire on November 19, 2018. The first fire occurred in April 2017. Engine 11 arrived to find five secondfloor windows venting heavy fire on the Alpha/Delta sides. The exposure on the D side was severely threatened due to the overlapping fire. Command struck a second alarm. A hard-hitting interior attack knocked much of the fire down but trapped fire in the voids and knee walls. The IC pulled all companies out to get Tower Ladder 1’s bucket into service. Ladders 1 and 5 played their pipes into the upper floors to get control of the trapped fire before crews returned to mop up.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

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Fire News, January 2019, Page 23

Fatality at Haddam MVA

Haddam (CT) volunteer firefighters worked quickly and diligently to extricate two victims involved in an MVA on October 1, 2018, on Killingworth Road. Shortly before 1700, the Haddam Volunteer Fire Company was dispatched to a head-on collision with entrapment near Hubbard Road and Soobitsky Drive.

Firefighters encountered two patients with serious injuries pinned inside their vehicles. Both drivers were wearing seat belts and air bags were deployed. Each vehicle had more than a foot of intrusion into the drivers’ compartments. Firefighters first deployed hydraulic tools to the vehicle housing the most critical patient. After removing the driver’s side doors, center pillar and dash, crews were able to rapidly extricate the person. LIFE STAR was requested but was unable to respond due to poor weather. The patient, who was pending traumatic arrest, was sent to Hartford Hospital via Haddam Volunteer Ambulance Service. He was pronounced dead at the hospital.

Firefighters used hydraulic tools to remove the driver’s side door and roof of the other vehicle, but ultimately, crews carefully rolled the dash to free the woman’s leg. She was transported to Hartford Hospital by Hunter’s Ambulance.

- Fire News photo by Olivia Drake

Heavy Entrapment at Abington/Rockland Crash Around 2200 hours on October 9, 2018, the Abington (MA) and Rockland (MA) Fire Departments were alerted for an MVA at the intersection of West Water and Central Streets, near the town line. Both departments arrived to find a singlevehicle accident with one victim heavily entrapped. Personnel used hydraulic cutters, spreaders and rams to remove the roof to gain better access to the victim, but the patient appeared to be trapped under the dashboard of the vehicle. Crews worked feverishly for approximately a half-hour to get the reportedly conscious and alert victim freed. Once extricated, the Rockland Ambulance transported the person to South Shore Hospital. The Rockland and Abington Police Departments were on-scene investigating the cause of the accident, along with the Plymouth County Sheriff’s Department BCI Unit.

- Fire News photo by Pat Travers

Billerica MVA Billerica (MA) fire crews and state police responded to the scene of a major crash on Route 3 in October 2018.

- Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade

Page 24, Fire News, January 2019

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Heavily Entrapped in Plymouth MVA

On November 1, 2018, at approximately 2100, the Plymouth (MA) Fire Department responded to Route 3 south between Exits 5 and 6 for a vehicle that struck the back of a street sweeper. The operator of the vehicle was heavily entrapped. Two engines, and the heavy rescue responded to extricate the patient.

- Fire News photo by John Sjostedt

Rollover MVA in Kingston The driver of a vehicle fell asleep, struck a pole and the vehicle landed on its side on Pembroke Street in Kingston (MA) The operator refused treatment.

- Fire News photo by John Sjostedt

We Ain’t in Kansas, Auntie Em An EF-1 tornado hit Lincoln (RI) on October 23, 2018, in the area of Angell Road and Riata Drive. The twister uprooted trees and stripped roofing off of several large homes in its mile-long run. Luckily, no injuries were reported during the incident.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

Tech Rescue Call in York On October 7, 2018, a call went out for a tech rescue on Route 1 in York (ME) for a man stuck in the mud. York firefighters responded and found the man stuck thigh high. They brought a ground ladder and an attack line to free the man.

- Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade

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Fire News, January 2019, Page 25

Training

School Bus Extrication Training On October 4, 2018, the Brockton (MA) Fire Department conducted four days of school bus extrication training. Captain McLean secured the buses thru First Student, Lucini Bus Company and the Brockton School Department. Several types of drill were run including removing a car pinned under the bus, and search and rescue operation.

- Fire News photo by Bob Myers

Mass Casualty Incident On November 3, 2018, the Hartford (CT) Fire Department participated in a mass casualty incident (MCI) with Connecticut rail and law enforcement agencies. The drill simulated a passenger train colliding with another train. The fire department extinguished a simulated fire and removed occupants of the passenger train.

- Fire News photo By Jim Peruta, CFPA

Bradley Airport Triennial Disaster Drill

Every three years airports are required to conduct a disaster drill. This year’s drill at Bradley International Airport on September 29, 2018, featured a plane crash with multiple victims, and live burn training featuring a burn plane rented from West Virginia University.

- Fire News photos by Glenn Duda, CFPA

Page 26, Fire News, January 2019

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Training

New Recruits in Connecticut Hartford (CT) recruit class for fall/winter 2018. This class includes members of the Hartford, West Hartford and New Britain Fire Departments.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

State Line Joint Training New Marlborough (MA) and Canaan (CT) firefighters learn about fire behavior at a recent live fire training session. Joint training over state lines is a necessity for these bordering towns.

- Fire News photo by Ed Harvey

Belltown Live Burn The Belltown (CT) Volunteer Fire Department held a live burn on September 22, 2018. The exercise gave members a chance to train in real-world scenarios to ready them for similar action in the future.

- Fire News photos by Jon Tenca

Forced Entry Training Southborough (MA) firefighters trained on forcing inward and outward opening doors at a recent drill night at their headquarters.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

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Fire News, January 2019, Page 27

Training

Naugatuck Live Burns

On September 27 and 28, 2018, members of the Naugatuck (CT) Fire Department, as well as departments from the surrounding area, got the rare chance to conduct two liveburn days in two buildings, one a former residence, the other a residence over a commercial restaurant. Crews got the chance to train in both structures in real-world conditions. After the training sessions were over, the department conducted a controlled burn of both structures.

- Fire News photos by Jon Tenca and Glenn Duda, CFPA

Page 28, Fire News, January 2019

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Training

RI Train Crash Drill

Members of regional hazmat/decon teams, local fire departments and the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency drilled on a train crash where several cars were leaking product in Cumberland (RI) on October 3, 2018. Agencies closed off Martin Street at the Providence-Worcester railroad tracks to simulate the derailment of chemical cars. Crews triaged multiple patients, mitigated leaks, and decontaminated personnel during the exercise.

- Fire News photos by Ken LaBelle

Obituary

Leominster’s DC Luigi Barassi

On November 14, 2018, Leominster firefighters honored retired Deputy Chief Luigi ‘Lou’ F. Barassi. He began his career with the Leominster Fire Department in 1952, and after 35 years of service, retired as Deputy Fire Chief in 1987. He also served in the U.S. Army at Fort Benning, Georgia.

- Fire News photos by Scott LaPrade

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Fire News, January 2019, Page 29

Southern New England Firefighters in Action

d to artment was dispatche The Acton (MA) Fire Dep a fire on October 8, 2018. for Captain Browns Lane Fortin - Fire News photo by Jim

On September 27, 2018, firefighters responded to Algonguin Place in Springfield MA), for a house fire, which displaced 11 people.

- Fire News photo

by John DeForest

Firefighters in New Ha ven (CT) contain flames that were showing from the first-fl oor of a 2-1/2 story hom e on James Street. - Fire New s photo by Doc Jonson

On October 17, 2018, No rwalk (CT patched to Arbor Drive ) firefighters were disfor a house fire.

- Fire News photo by Jon Tenca

Page 30, Fire News, January 2019

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Up Close & Personal

Firefighters made a great stop of a fire in Middleborough (MA).

The fire was on an exterior wall on the B side and extended into the attic.

- Fire News photo by John Sjostedt Lincoln (RI) Engine 3 and 8 firefighters after a day of training with live fire conditions.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

Lt. Monique Pettway-Moore (E-6) operating at an all-hands fire on Willow Street in Bridgeport (CT) on October 4, 2018.

- Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com

Hartford (CT) firefighters after responding to Westbourne Parkway for a structure fire with a party trapped on the roof.

- Fire News photo by Nick Peruta

Westwood (MA) Engine 5 firefighters helped battle a three-alarm fire 45 miles to their north on September 16, 2018. They were part of a task force helping Merrimack Valley firefighters through the gas emergency explosion on September 13.

- Fire News photo by Kevin White

New Britain (CT) firefighters after responding to a second-alarm fire on Broad Street on October 23, 2018.

- Fire News photo by Jim Peruta, CFPA

On November 22, 2018, firefighters in Lynn (MA) responded to a two-alarm fire on Grover Street.

- Fire News photo by Rick Nohl

Spencer (MA) fire crew.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

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Fire News, January 2019, Page 31

12th Annual New Hampshire Fallen Firefighters Memorial

- Fire News photos by Liz Feitelberg

Belltown VFD Open House The Belltown (CT) Volunteer Fire Department held their annual open house on October 21, 2018. Although a cold and windy day, many members of the community turned out to learn about fire safety, take a tour of the firehouse with its signature white rigs, and find out how to become a member. The department was also given a special surprise when the Mayor of the city of Stamford, David Martin, dropped by to hang out with the firefighters and their guests.

- Fire News photo by Jon Tenca

Page 32, Fire News, January 2019

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Yantic Steamer Heads for a Makeover

Taking Care of the Needy

The Yantic (CT) Fire Company recently put their 1891 Silsby Steamer aboard a flatbed trailer for a five-hour ride to Maine for a total makeover. The steamer, which has been in Yantic ever since its purchase 127 years ago, will return as good as new in about a year.

- Fire News photo by Joe Shefer

Leominster (MA) firefighters show up yearly around Thanksgiving to Ginny’s Thrift Shop and donate turkeys with all the fixins for families in need. Money is raised through the Community Outreach Program. Firefighters, here with owner Sue Chalifoux Zephir and her workers.

- Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade

Massachusetts Fallen Firefighters Memorial

Wearing Pink in Support of Breast Cancer Awareness

At the Massachusetts Statehouse on Bowdoin Street in Boston.

- Fire News photo by Liz Feitelberg

Lincoln (RI) firefighters from Engines 3 and 8 stand together wearing their pink shirts in support of breast cancer awareness.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

CT DEMHS Region 2 Field Day

Norwalk Open House

On October 19, 2018, the Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security Region 2 (CT) held a field day at the North Haven Fairgrounds. They used this opportunity to, “showcase how their investments of time and grant funds directly benefits the 30 towns and features the mutual-aid and partner resources that can assist during significant events.”

- Fire New photo by FireGroundImages.com

The Norwalk (CT) community got a chance to meet their first responders on September 29, 2018, during the annual Touch-aTruck and open house event. The goal of the event was to teach about fire safety and eliminate any fear that may come with interacting with first responders. The Norwalk Fire Department also worked to raise money for breast cancer awareness during the event.

- Fire News photo by Jon Tenca

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Fire News, January 2019, Page 33

Fall River Open House The Fall River (MA) Fire Department held an open house to welcome citizens to the Flint Fire Station to enjoy pizza and soda, tours of the station and apparatus, an inflatable bounce house and a visit from Sparky the fire dog.

- Fire News photo by Ken Leger

West Shore Dedication and Promotion Ceremony

The West Shore (CT) Fire Department recently celebrated its 100th anniversary. A monument was dedicated in front of fire headquarters. Two officers were promoted, as well. Lieutenant Dan Johnson was sworn in as Captain by Commissioner Mike Doyle and Firefighter/Paramedic Rebecca Wilson was sworn in as Lieutenant by Commissioner Evan Mink.

- Fire News photos by Glenn Duda, CFPA

Page 34, Fire News, January 2019

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Brockton Firefighters Local 144 100th Anniversary

Turkey Day for the Military

- Fire News photos by Liz Feitelberg

Tom Ollari and Mark Grabowski delivered 24 Thanksgiving Day turkeys to the VA and Holyoke Soldiers Home, pictured here with Col. Bennett Walsh. - Submitted by Mark Grabowski

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Springdale Open House

The Springdale (CT) volunteers held their open house on October 21, 2018. The event was well received by people who live in the Springdale section of Stamford.

They were able to learn about fire safety, go through a smoke trailer provided by the Norwalk Fire Department and a crash simulator provided by the Connecticut State Police.

- Fire News photo by Jon Tenca

Fire News, January 2019, Page 35

Merryman New FDSOA Chairman; Valliere Vice Chairman The Fire Department Safety Officer Association (FDSOA) announced Jeffery Merryman, Deputy Chief of the Alexandria (VA) Fire Department, was elected the new Chairman of the FDSOA Board of Directors. Merryman has served as Eastern Regional Director for the past four years.

“I am both humbled and honored that the membership has granted me this opportunity to lead this outstanding organization,” said Merryman. “I look forward to the challenges ahead that further advance firefighter and EMS responder safety as well as providing support for Incident Safety Officers and Health and Safety Officers both nationally and internationally.”

Merryman, Deputy Chief of Health, Safety and Risk Management, has served with Alexandria for 33 years. He joined the FDSOA in 2008 upon his assignment as one of three newly created shift safety officer positions. In 2017, Merryman was presented the International Association of Fire Chief’s Safety Health & Survival Section’s Alan Brunacini Fire Service Executive Safety Award.

In addition, the new FDSOA Vice-Chairman is Eric Valliere, Assistant Fire Chief of the Scottsdale (AZ) Fire Department. Valliere has been an active member of the fire service for the past 27 years. He started as a firefighter with the Mesa (AZ) Fire Department in 1991 and joined Scottsdale Fire Department as a Battalion Chief in 2005, when the department transitioned to a municipal organization.

Valliere has been serving on the FDSOA Board as a Western Director since 2014 and an FDSOA Nationally Certified Incident Safety Officer since 2004.

Rich Marinucci, FDSOA Executive Director, extended his appreciation to Richard Maddox for his service as Chairman for the past three years and to Marty Albert for his service as Vice-Chairman.

The new Chairman and Vice Chairman will be sworn into office at the FDSOA’s annual meeting during the 2019 Safety Forum, to be held January 23 and January 24, 2019. For more information visit: www.fdsoa.org.

Page 36, Fire News, January 2019

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DiBernardo Fund Grant Long Ridge Open House to Leominster

Leominster (MA) firefighters recently received a grant for $12,000 to equip and train its members with self-rescue bailout systems.

The grant came from the Lt. Joseph P. DiBernardo Memorial Foundation. The fund was started to help train and equip firefighters in exiting untenable situations. Lt. DiBernardo died November 22, 2011, as a result of the injuries suffered on Black Sunday on January 23, 2005, when he and three other firefighters died in two fires (in Brooklyn and the Bronx.) It was the deadliest day for the FDNY since 9/11). In both fires, crews were trapped on a top floor.

Surrounded by fire with no way out and running out of air, they were forced to jump out the rear windows. He and three other firefighters died as a result.

- Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade

Bringing a WW II KIA Home

Fire departments lined the bridges of Interstate 495 to honor the body of a sailor killed during World War II. Navy Water Tender 1st Class Stephen Pepe, 43, from Bridgeport (CT) will be buried in Bourne MA National Cemetery. He was killed at Pearl Harbor aboard the USS Oklahoma. Pictured is the Plainfield Ladder Company on one of the bridges.

- Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade

The Long Ridge Volunteer Fire Company (CT) hosted their annual open house on October 13, 2018, to bring the community in touch with the day-to-day lives of firefighters and teach fire safety.

Kids were introduced to firefighters in gear and shown what to do in case of a stove fire. Civilians were also able to ride a fire truck and purchase pumpkins and other holiday decorations to raise money for the department.

- Fire News photo by Jon Tenca

Haddam Fire Prevention On October 9 and 10, 2018, Haddam (CT) members visited children at Young Horizons Daycare, Cougar Cubs Daycare, Haddam Co-Op Nursery School, Haddam Elementary School and Burr Elementary School and provided lessons to all children up to fourth grade. Firefighters taught the students about the importance of calling 911; changing batteries in smoke alarms and CO detectors; how to stop-drop-and-roll; how to properly feel for heat against a door during a fire; how to call out for help. They also stressed why it’s important for their parents never to let a car warm up in a closed garage because of CO issues; create a family meeting place in the event of a emergency; and learn two ways out of every room.

Members also dressed in full turnout gear and offered high-fives to the children. “We want the children to know that firefighters may look and sound scary, but they shouldn’t fear us,” said Lt. Franklin Pierce, chair of HVFC’s Fire Prevention Committee.

Firefighters also showed the students thermal imaging camera demonstrations and allowed the kids to touch, feel and try on their firefighting gloves, helmets and coats. Some Haddam Co-Op Nursery School students, their parents and teachers were given a full tour of HVFC’s Station One. - Fire News photo by Olivia Drake

Happy Holidays

New Heavy Rescue for Fall River

Santa and the Kensington (CT) Fire Department Santa’s Express wishing all a happy and safe holiday.

- Fire News photo by Joe Marino

On November 14, 2018, the Fall River (MA) Fire Department placed in service a new Heavy Rescue 1.

- Fire News photo by Ken Leger

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Fire News, January 2019, Page 37

Chartier New Chief of D in N. Smithfield

On September 28, 2018, Chief David R. Chartier was officially sworn in as Chief of the Department for the North Smithfield (RI) Fire Department. Some of the special guests included Town Administrator Gary Ezovski, Woonsocket Fire Chief Paul Shatraw, and Smithfield Fire Chief Robert Seltzer. Chief Chartier was led in by the members of North Smithfield and Smithfield Fire Departments’ Honor Guard.

Prior to his appointment to North Smithfield, Chartier worked for 34 years in Smithfield and retired as Deputy Chief. Congratulations Chief!

- Fire News photos by Ken LaBelle

Worcester Promotions

On October 9, 2018, the Worcester(MA) Fire Department promoted Firefighters Patrick Barron, Daniel Gagne, Joshua Pollinger and Jason Menard to Lieutenant.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

Page 38, Fire News, January 2019

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Cover Story

Commercial Bldg. Goes in Pawtucket

Downtown Pawtucket (RI) fire companies responded to a threealarm fire in the area of Pine and Goff Streets on October 5, 2018.

Units arrived to find heavy fire from the Alpha side of a large oneand-two story commercial building. Command ordered a defensive posture and all firefighters to be on SCBA as the fire building was a

possible drug lab. There were several explosions during the firefight.

Three ladder pipes along with deck guns and portable monitors were used to knock down the heavy fire. One person was transported to the hospital with severe burns. That person and another where arrested in connection to the fire. - Fire News photos by Ken LaBelle

CHIEF JOHN M. BUCKMAN III HAS JOINED THE IAMRESPONDING TEAM AS ITS NEW DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENT AND REGIONAL OUTREACH IamResponding.com is pleased to announce that Chief John M. Buckman III has joined the IamResponding team as its new Director of Government and Regional Outreach. IamResponding is excited to have Chief Buckman join its team of emergency services professionals and looks forward to working with Chief Buckman to enhance its current product offerings, and to expand its current customer base of more than 7,500 emergency services entities.

Chief Buckman has served as a volunteer firefighter for 48 years, fire chief for 35 years and association leader for more than 30 years.

He is a past-President of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (2001-2001), he co-founded and served as Chair of the Volunteer and Combination Officers Section of the IAFC from 1988 to 1996, and he was the first ever recipient of Fire Chief Magazine’s Fire Chief of the Year Award in 1996.

Chief Buckman is a co-founder of the National Fire Academy Alumni Association, where he served as Secretary-Treasurer from 1998 through 2014, and he was also the Director of a Fire and Public Safety Academy Training System for 15 years. He has authored over 150 articles in various fire service journals, co-authored the 3rd Edition of Recruiting, Training and Maintaining Volunteer Fire Fighters, Lessons Learned from Fire

Service Leaders, and is the Editor of the Chief Officers Desk Reference.

In joining the IamResponding team, Chief Buckman conveyed that: “I am grateful to the IamResponding team for this opportunity. As a long-time IamResponding user, I know that the IamResponding product serves many valuable functions in our fire and EMS service, including the reduction of emergency response times, the enhancement of pre-scene knowledge and communications, and the easing of staffing burdens. Supplemental dispatch notifications, more effective use of volunteers (whether for all or a portion of the response team), mapping of and routing to the scene, many pre and post-incident reporting functions, and even NFIRS incident reporting can all be accomplished within the IamResponding solution. What I have learned from my use of the IamResponding system is that IamResponding does far more than most people realize, but is very easy to use. I look forward to working closely with the IamResponding team to continue to advance this industry-leading system.”

For more Information about IamResponding’s products and services, please visit www.IamResponding.com or call 877-509-0381.

Chief Buckman may be reached at JBuckman@emergencysmc.com.

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