New Bedford
Café Fire
New Bedford (MA) crews responded to County Street for smoke coming from Tony’s Cafe.
See story on page 5
On September 6, 2023, the Athol (MA) Fire Department was dispatched to Fern Street for a structure fire.
See story on page 6
Church Fire in Taftville
Taftville (CT) fire was dispatched to South B Street for a reported church fire.
See story on page 7
Manchester House Fire
Manchester (NH) Fire Dispatch received a call reporting a building fire on Bartlett Street.
See story on page 8
Hooksett
Tractor-Trailer MVA
New Hampshire State Police, NHDOT and Hooksett Fire responded to a threevehicle accident on I-93
See story on page 18
North Haven’s Anthony DeSimone
Posthumously Promoted
See story on page 21
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Fires in electric vehicles often take crews longer to handle than those in vehicles with internal combustion engines. Forfire crews, electrical vehicle batteries are hard to reach, difficult to cool down, and the energy created with thermal runaway can easily reignite orspread from cell to cell. Ziamatic’s new Vehicle Cooling Units could be the answer to those challenges, with 36- and 72-inch options now available. After more than a year of designing and testing, what may be the most cost effective and efficient Vehicle Cooling Units are now available. Call 800-711-FIRE or visit Ziamatic.com for more info.
Some of Marion County’s (FL) bravest men and women lined up to test theirmight in an annual “Bearthe Burden” weightlifting competition. The event consisted of three main categories for competitors to test their strength: back squats, bench presses and deadlifts. Each competitor paid a $20 entry fee to the Marion County Firefighter Benevolence
Fund to help raise awareness for first responders’mental health struggles.
- Courtesy of WUFT-TVPBS 5 Gainesville
On June 21, 2023, Congressman Andrew R. Garbarino (R-NY-02) introduced the VolunteerFirst ResponderHousing Act, legislation to expand eligibility forqualified volunteeremergency responders to participate in certain federal housing assistance programs. Specifically, this bill would expand eligibility for the Single-Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program through the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development and the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Good Neighbor Next Door Sales Program. The Single Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program assists approved lenders in providing loans to low and moderate income households to build, rehabilitate or improve a home in eligible rural areas. The income limit for the program is no more than 115% of the median household income.
The University of Maryland Autonomous Micro Air Vehicle (AMAV) student team competed in the First Responder UAS Challenges hosted by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the Annual Design-Build-Vertical Flight Competition hosted by the Vertical Flight Society (VFS). Their AMAV’s Gambit was a low-cost, easyto-fly drone specifically tailored to operate indoors, while providing full light, low light, and thermal imaging. The drone design, fabrication, assembly, and testing were performed by University of Maryland students. The students won over $150,000 in the national competition.
Thermal, HD, and night-vision cameras were mounted on a remote-controlled gimbal with a 180° range of motion, which enabled the drone to precisely maneuver in constrained environments and positively identify objects of interest in any lighting condition. Theirdrone was based on the DJI Matrice 300 drone, a popularchoice forfirst responders. For more go to https://www.nist.gov/ctl/pscr/amav-umd.
New Bedford (MA) crews responded to Box 724 with Engines 6, 1 and 7, and Ladders 3 and 1 forsmoke from Tony’s Cafe on County Street. Engine 6 arrived to smoke showing. Interiorcrews found heavy fire and smoke on the first floorand extending upwards. Unit
1 ordered a second alarm. Engines 8 and 9 and Ladder4 were due on the second. Crews worked several hours to bring the fire under control.
On September19, 2023, at about 1715, Fall River(MA) crews responded to a fire on Brightman Street. First arriving companies reported heavy smoke showing from a large, vacant building. With that report, the OIC ordered an exteriorattack only, due to the structure being a well-known, vacant, dilapidated building. Companies set up a collapse zone and set up numerous master streams including Platform 1. Multiple exteriorhandlines and 2-1/2 inch lines went into operation. Companies also set up to protect the exposures on the C (a garage) and D (large three-story wood frame) sides. About an hourinto the fire, conditions started to rapidly
change and heavy fire conditions took overthe upperfloorand eventually through the roof. Forhours, the fire sent thick brown and black smoke throughout out the area. The building was built in 1896 as a theaterforthe neighborhood. In its time, it was three different theaters, used as a flea market, youth center/basketball court fora local church and was last occupied by a casket making company called Pilgrim Caskets. It took several hours forfirefighters to keep the fire contained to the origin building.
- Fire News photos by Dave Stewart, MassFirePics.com, and Kenneth Leger
At 0945 on September6, 2023, the Athol (MA) Fire Department was dispatched to Fern Street for a reported structure fire. Upon arrival, crews encountered a fully involved two-story structure. Command would request second and third alarms, bringing in multiple crews from the surrounding area. Unfortunately, there was an occupant fatality reported.
- Fire News photo by Bryan Favreau, Onscene Images
Ellington (CT) firefighters responded fora three-alarm fire on Florence Avenue on September17, 2023, at 1114. Crews arrived to find a three-bay garage fully involved. Mutual aid assisted at the scene. -
Around 1005, Taftville (CT) fire was dispatched to South B Street fora reported church fire. Car 2 arrived to find fire showing from the B-D side of the building. Asecond alarm was requested. The first-due engine stretched a 2-1/2 inch landline into the main chapel area, and a second line was stretched to the basement area fora minorextension. As the extra alarm companies arrived crews went to work in the church and, aftera short time, command decided to switch to defensive operations due to the fire above the decorative ceiling area. Once that was knocked down, crews re-entered the building foroverhaul. The fire was confine d to the chapel area; the rest of the building had smoke and waterdamage. The fire eventually went to three alarms and was underinvestigation.
- Fire News photo by Robert Ladd CFPA
Around 1830 on August 11, 2023, the Brockton (MA) Fire Department struck Box-4223 fora reported building fire in the area of East Ashland Street and North Cary Street. Companies arrived to a single-story block commercial property with heavy fire in the rear of the building. Asecond alarm was transmitted shortly afterthe companies arrived. Multiple big lines were stretched and put into operation to the rearof the building. Engine 4’s deck gun was also operating at the rearof the building. Companies encountered heavy fire conditions there with extension to tractortrailers which were against the building. Around 1900, a third alarm was struck, in addition to a Tier-1 hazardous materials response forthe State Hazardous Materials Team. Crews worked through heavy fire conditions, as well as hot and humid weather, battling the stubborn blaze. Nearly an hourafterthe third alarm was transmitted, a fourth alarm was requested formanpower.
Manchester(NH) Fire Dispatch received a call reporting a buildi ng fire on Bartlett Street. The initial callerreported they could not selfevacuate and they were trapped on the third floor. The callerdisconnected from the dispatchers. Additional calls came in reporting the adjacent building was also on fire. First-arriving firefighters reported smoke showing from the roof and entered the building to begin evacuations. All occupants were safely out of the building and
firefighters located the fire on the third floorand quickly knocked it down. Truck 6 and Truck 1 (labeled T4 on spare in photo) worked on opening up the roof to ensure the fire was fully extinguished. The American Red Cross was called to the scene to assist the residents from three units in finding alternative living spaces.
Nashua (NH) firefighters arrived to find smoke showing from a dwelling on Brook Street. Companies discovered a kitchen fire on the first floorand had the fire knocked down in a short amount of time.
At approximately 1455 on July 29, 2023, the West Haven (CT) Fire Department received multiple calls fora house fire nearthe wate ron Ocean Avenue. The West Haven fireboat also reported seeing a column of smoke showing from the distance. Asecond alarm was called when members arrived to heavy fire showing from a two-story private dwelling. At one point, firefighters were called to evacuate the structure and commence a defensive attack. Two residents were accounted for. One firefightersustained minorinjuries. Members also had to battle extreme temps due to the week-long heat wave pummeling the area. - Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com
On June 25, 2023, Middletown (CT) crews responded fora structure fire on Liberty Street in Middletown around 1630. All Middletown units were on scene as were Meriden Engine 3 and Cars 9 and 1, South Fire District and Durham Volunteers; Westfield Volunteers provided city coverage.
On August 26, 2023, Oxford (MA) firefighters made a great stop to a fire running the attic space of an 1800s structure. Asecond alarm was quickly called due to the location of the fire being out of the hydrant district.
Manchester(CT) responded fora carfire on Interstate 384 east between exits 4 and 5 on September16, 2023.
- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
Cheshire (CT) firefighters responded to a possible CO incident on Berkshire Court on the evening of August 17, 2023. The occupants had already self-evacuated, and units found the CO levels to be higherthan normal. The cause was believed to be a puffback in the oil burner. Ventilation of the house was performed until levels were acceptable.
- Fire News photo by FirstOnScenePhotos
Merrimack (NH) Fire Rescue, Merrimack Police and New Hampshire State Police responded to a report of a single-vehicle rollovercrash on the F.E. Everett Turnpike southbound between Exits 12 and 11. Dispatchers advised units the vehicle was about 25 feet off the road, into the tree line and was occupied by two adults and two very young children. Due to the numberof patients an additional ambulance was dispatched and it was requested to check the availability of a medical helicopter. Merrimack Police arri ved and found a man, woman, a child about four-years old, and anotherchild who was less than one-yearold. All the victims of the accident were out of the vehicle. The woman was immediately transported by Merrimack Fire Ambulance to a local hospital with what
appeared to be non-life-threatening injuries. Firefighters evaluated the man and two children inside anotherambulance at the scene. Afteran extended time the man refused medical transport forhimself and the two children. Firefighters retrieved the carseats from the vehicle and assisted putting the carseats in a different vehicle and transferred the children to the waiting car. Information at the scene indicated the carstruck the Jersey barrierin the high-spe ed lane careening off it and down the right side of the road, striking a large cement pipe, narrowly missing a utility pole and coming to rest in the woods. Lewis Towing worked foran extended time to remove the vehicle and debris from the woods.
- Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
Around 1045 on September5, 2023, the East Bridgewater(MA) Fire Department responded to a reported MVAat the Tri-Town Gas Station located on Washington Street. They responded along with a mutual aid ambulance from Whitman. Companies found a single-vehicle accident, where a vehicle had struck the side of the building. The building inspectorwas requested to the scene, along with Plymouth County Sheriff’s Department BCI unit. The Whitman Ambulance, utilizing a loanerfrom Hanson Fire, obtained a patient refusal. - Fire News photo by Pat Travers
New Hampshire State Police, ManchesterFire (MFD), and AMR ambulance responded to a call fora single-vehicle crash on Interstate 93 north, with people trapped and the vehicle on fire. While en route, responders were advised of a second crash involving fourvehicles about a mile south of the initial accident. Additional resources were dispatched to the second accident including NH DOTto assist. MFD Engine 3 arrived at the first call and found no fire, nortrapped occupants. One person was transported by AMR to Elliot Hospital, and three juveniles that remained at the scene were given clearance by parents to not be transported to the hospital. The second accident appeared to have two vehicles on the left of 93 north and two additional vehicles on the right side. Firefighters evaluated several people but no one was transported. Two of the fourvehicles had heavy damage and required tows. The accidents caused traffic to quickly back up into Londonderry as farsouth as the Exit 5 on-ramp.The first accident involved a vehicle that witnesses said was traveling at very high speed. The second accident appeared to have been caused by traffic stopping and vehicles colliding. New Hampshire State Police was handling the accident investigation and was seen removing bottles of what appearto be alcohol that had been thrown from the vehicle as it rolled over. - Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
New Hampshire State Police, NH Department of Transportation (NHDOT) and Hooksett Fire responded to a three-vehicle accident on I-93 north between the 293 split and the Hooksett toll plaza. Responders were advised of a tractor-trailerthat jackknifed and left the right side of the roadway, careening down the embankment into the tree line. State police found the tractor-trailerdriverout and uninjured. Initial investigation determined the tractor-trailerwas traveling north and hydroplaned. As othervehicles tried to avoid the accident there were collisions that caused minordamages to the front of a dump truck and heavy damage to a passengercarwith Quebec plates. Hooksett Fire evaluated the medical condition of all, but no one required transport. The New England Truck Center(NETC) determined the saddle tanks on the truck were leaking diesel. Hooksett Fire notified the Department of Environmental Services (NHDES). NETC used transferpumps to quickly empty the remaining diesel from the tanks into drums. It was estimated approximately 30 gallons of diesel may have leaked. Duval’s Towing and Recovery towed the truck from the scene. State Police handled more than a dozen accidents involving rollovers, tractor-trailers, and passengervehicles in about a five-hourperiod on I-93, 293, and the F. E. Everett Turnpike during heavy rain that blanketed the area.
On September2, 2023, the Seekonk (MA) Fire Department’s Speedway detail was kept quite busy at the annual LaborDay Thrill Show. During the pick-up truck enduro race two trucks made contact causing one truck to flip overseveral times. The safety crew responded and the driverwas able to walk away unscathed.
Around 1030 on August 23, 2023, the Whitman (MA) Fire Department responded to an MVAon Court Street nearSouth Avenue. Companies arrived to find a single-vehicle accident where a carstruck a pole. The occupant reported that they noticed a bee flying around the car, when they suddenly collided with the telephone pole. No injuries were reported.
- Fire News photo by Pat Travers
At approximately 1700 on September8, 2023, the Shelton (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to Coram Road at Sunset Drive foran overturned vehicle. First companies on scene found one vehicle on its roof and the driverself-extricated. The driverwa s transported by Echo Hose Ambulance to a local hospital and it appeared that no othervehicle was involved in the crash.
- Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com
On August 14, 2023, the WindsorLocks (CT) Fire Department held a promotion ceremony to formally congratulate those promoted in June. During the ceremony, officers took an oath of office and then theirbadges were pinned to theirdress uniforms by family members. John Donahue was promoted to Assistant Chief, Herbert (‘Chip’) StaigerIII was promoted to Deputy Chief, Joseph LaPierre III was promoted to Captain.
- Fire News photos by Coral Ruggiero
Firefighter Anthony DeSimone was posthumously promoted to Lieutenant of the North Haven (CT) Fire Department by the North Haven Fire Commission at a special meeting recently. Firefighte r DeSimone had been working hard to achieve the rank of Lieutenant and was on the department’s current promotion list after passing both written and assessment center testing.
He continued to sign up for continuing education classes to further prepare himself for a leadership role as a company officer. Fire Chief Januszewski stated, “The elevation of Firefighter DeSimone to t he rank was inevitable. He had studied hard and committed himself to furthering his education within the fire service.”
Fire Commission Chairman Pasquale Nuzzolillo stated, “It’s an honor to promote Firefighter DeSimone to the rank of Lieutenant and his family should be proud.” The promotion was effective on August 28, 2023.
- Submitted by Jordan Mayblum
Balancing a family and a business is a challenging task that en trepreneurs face every day. Each year, the Small Business Administration (SBA) recognizes this by honoring successful family-owned small businesses throughout New England. This year, the Jeffrey Butland Family Owned Business of the Year awardacknowledging a small business with at least a 15-year track re cord that has passed ownership from one generation to another - was awarded to Industrial Protection Services.
The family owned and operated company, Industrial Protection Services, LLC, was founded by the late Richard “Dick” Murphy and his wife Ellen Murphy. Dick and Ellen started the business in 1993 and grew it to be the foundation of IPS today. After his time in the service, Murphy entered the private sector and quickly realized something was missing. Recognizing the need for a professional distributor specific to the fire service, Murphy created Industrial Protection Services, LLC (IPS) located in Salem, New Hampshire. He realize d through the creation of IPS how much he would be able to help address the unresolved needs of fire departments throughout New England. With arduous work, time, and many passionate people, IPS quickly became the area’s premier fire service equipment distri butor, serving all of Massachusetts, Maine and New Hampshire.
Today, IPS is the largest distributor and service provider of Scott
Air-Pak’s in all of New England. Recognizing their strength in providing on-site sales and service, they pioneered the first mobile AirPak service truck in New England. They now have five such vehicles and an impressive team of highly trained personnel on the road to efficiently serve their industry. In 2004, IPS created another first by designing a truck that would allow them to hydro-test SCBAcylinders at all of their customers’locations. Not only were they the first company in 2004 able to provide this as a mobile service, but still today in 2023, they are honored to say we are the only company able to do it.
Every day each member of the Industrial Protection Services, LLC family is constantly looking for ways to better serve and meet the demands of their customers. They are regularly broadening their product line to provide the New England area fire service with a “One Stop Shop.” They now carry, in addition to 3M Scott Fire and Safety, Holmatro Rescue Tools, Fire-Dex gear, MSA/Cairns helmets, Rae Systems and BWTechnologies gas detectors, Zodiac Milpro rescue boats, Akron Brass nozzles, Chemguard foam, and so much more.
IPS promises to always guarantee a level of excellence unmatche d in the industry. To learn more about Industrial Protection Services, visitwww.ipp-ips.com, check us out on all major social media pl atforms, or call us today at 603- 685- 8040.
The EMS & FIRE PRO Expo is an annual event that stands as a beacon of excellence for the emergency services industry. As the leading platform for professionals in Emergency Medical Service s (EMS) and Fire Services, this expo brings together a diverse and passionate community of first responders, industry experts, and organizations. The expo’s goal is to equip attendees with cutting-edge knowledge, foster networking opportunities, and showcase the latest innovations in the field.
Powerful Educational Opportunities:
At the heart of the EMS & FIRE PRO Expo lies its robust educational program. Renowned speakers, experts, and leaders present a wide range of topics, providing attendees with valuable insights and practical knowledge. From advanced medical techniques to innovative firefighting strategies, the sessions cover critical aspects of emergency services.
Networking and Collaboration:
The expo offers a unique opportunity for first responders to connect, learn from one another, and establish valuable professional relationships. Attendees can interact with like-minded peers, s hare experiences, and discuss challenges and solutions. Networking events and designated meeting areas facilitate meaningful conversations and potential collaborations among participants.
Innovations and Exhibitions:
The exhibit hall is a bustling space that showcases the latest advancements in EMS and Fire Services. Exhibitors, ranging from
leading industry manufacturers to emerging startups, demonstrate their products and solutions. From state-of-the-art medical equipment to cutting-edge firefighting gear, attendees have the chan ce to explore a wide array of resources to enhance their operations.
Special Events and Engaging Activities:
Beyond the educational sessions and exhibit hall, the EMS & FIRE PRO Expo hosts special events and engaging activities. The se events not only provide attendees with relaxation and entertain ment but also foster camaraderie among the participants. From social networking gatherings to competitions and awards ceremonies, the expo ensures a well-rounded and memorable experience for all.
The Heart of EMS and Fire Services:
In conclusion, the EMS & FIRE PRO Expo is more than just an event; it embodies the heart and soul of the emergency services industry. By bringing together a diverse community of passionate professionals, providing world-class education, and showcasing groundbreaking innovations, the expo reinforces the commitment to excellence in EMS and Fire Service s. As the expo continues to evolve and expand its impact, it leaves an indelible mark on the professionals who dedicate their lives to protecting and saving others.
State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine and Massachusetts Firefighting Academy Director Jeffrey P. Winn announced the graduation of 22 firefighters from the 50-day Career Recruit Firefighting Training Program, class BW26
The graduating firefighters represent the fire departments of Bourne, Canton, Centerville-Osterville-Marstons Mills, Concord, Fairhav en, Hopkinton, Natick, Plainville, Revere, Rockland, Somerset, West borough and Yarmouth.
The MFAprovides recruit and in-service training for career, call, and volunteer firefighters at every level of experience, from recruit to chief officer, at campuses in Stow, Springfield and Bridgewater.
- Submitted by Jake Wark
State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine and Massachusetts Firefighting Academy Director Jeffrey P. Winn announced the graduation of 23 firefighters from the 50-day Career Recruit Firefighting Training Program Class 313.
The graduating firefighters of Class #313 represent the fire departments of Beverly, Billerica, Devens, Falmouth, Foxborough, Hingham, Medway, North Reading, Saugus, Sudbury, Wayland, Westborough, Westford, Westwood and Woburn.
The MFAprovides recruit and in-service training for career, call, and volunteer firefighters at every level of experience, from recruit to chief officer, at campuses in Stow, Springfield and Bridgewater.
- Submitted by Jake Wark
State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine and Massachusetts Firefighting Academy Director Jeffrey P. Winn announced the graduation of 29 firefighters from the 50-day Career Recruit Firefighting Training Program Class S33.
The graduating firefighters of Class #S33 represent the fire departments of Auburn, Belchertown, Chicopee, Gardner, Holyoke, Longmeadow, Marblehead , Monson, Northampton, Norton, Pittsfield, Shrewsbury, Southbridge, Sprin gfield, and West Springfield.
The MFAprovides recruit and in-service training for career, call, and volunteer firefighters at every level of experience, from recruit to chief officer, at campuses in Stow, Springfield and Bridgewater.
- Submitted by Jake Wark
In August, Haddam (CT) Volunteer Firefighter Scott Larson was honored for serving the Town of Haddam for the past 35 years.
Scott joined Haddam Volunteer Fire Company in August 1988 and was promoted to the rank of Firefighter in October 1989. Since 2011, he’s served as the president of the Haddam Volunteer Fire Department, which oversees Haddam VFC and Haddam Neck VFC.
Throughout his tenure, Scott has served as radio engineer, banquet committee chairperson, representative to the Board of Directors, press secretary, communications engineer, and as a member of the Fireman’s Ball committee, John Cernan Fund com-
mittee, fundraising committee, membership committee, and picnic committee.
He’s currently the chairperson of the company’s truck committee, which is working to replace two engines and a rescue vehicle within the next three years. He’s also served as the company’s radio engineer since 2001.
In addition to his multitude of administrative roles, Scott’s dedication to the town spans beyond the fire company. For 11 years, he served as the director of Haddam’s Emergency Management.
Scott, a life-long resident of Higganum, joined the company’s Junior Division at the age of 17.
- Fire News photo by Olivia Drake
On September2, 2023, the Fall River(MA) Fire Department challenged the Fall RiverPolice Department to a charity hockey game at the Driscoll Rink in Fall River. This event was the third event between the two departments to raise money formembers battling serious health issues. The event raised $8,000 dollars to be split between the two departments. Currently the Fire Department leads the Police 2 to 1.
Hartford (CT) crews had fire showing on arrival at the rearof a Sterling Street address on September5, 2023 at 0450. Ladder4 members found a male sleeping in the attic and removed him. Engine 14 and Ladder4 members were first due.
Around 1030 on the morning of September9, 2023, the Whitman (MA) Fire Department responded to a reported roof collapse on South Avenue, at a commercial space occupied by Harding Print Company. Engine-242 and Deputy Chief Al Cunningham found a section of roof which had collapsed into the building. Recent heavy rains were likely the cause of the collapse. The building inspectorwas requested to the scene, and was able to give the building owners a course of action. No injuries were reported.
Don ‘Durt’Whalen of the Pittsfield (MA) Fire Local 2647 Retired after30 years of service. His final shift was June 26, 2023.
- Submitted by Devon Whalen
On October27, 1945, two Arlington (MA) Firefighters, Edward J. Ryan and Herbert J. White were killed in an explosion in a fire on Massachusetts Avenue. This stone at Arlington Fire Headquarters honors theirmemories.
AMaynard firefighter was named the 2023 Fire and Life Safety Educator of the year at the 28th annual Massachusetts Fire & Li fe Safety Education Conference, State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine announced.
Captain Parr was one of five fire safety educators nominated for the award, which was presented by State Fire Marshal Davine and mem bers of the Department of Fire Services. He is credited with launchi ng a YouTube channel for the Maynard Fire Department to reach residents during the Covid-19 pandemic and producing “This Old Firehouse,” a video series that provided safety messaging and introduced viewers to the department’s operations.
Captain Parr also revised the Department’s annual fire safety p resentations to schoolchildren, switching from a large-group format to smaller, classroom-sized presentations that provided age-approp riate safety lessons and maximized communication with Maynard’s youngsters. Maynard Fire Chief Angela Lawless, who accepted the award on Captain Parr’s behalf, said that he has also increased the department’s visibility and accessibility to older adults by co llaborating with the Council on Aging and senior housing complexes. His presentations to these groups go beyond fire safety and address accident and injury prevention as well.
State Fire Marshal Davine noted that Captain Parr has achieved these successes in addition to his day-to-day responsibilities as a shift commander.
The Fire and Life Safety Educator of the Year Award honors an individual or a team for their involvement and commitment to ma king our world safer from fire and other preventable injuries. It recognizes those who have shown excellence in educating their community an d demonstrated outstanding leadership, teamwork, creativity, and perseverance. This year’s nominees also included: Captain Willi am Paskiewicz of the Billerica Fire Department; Captain Joseph Tow nsend of the Nantucket Fire Department; Firefighter Stephen Joyce of the Sturbridge Fire Department; and Lieutenant Matthew Morin of the Sunderland Fire Department.
The award ceremony capped off two days that included 30 hours of workshops that covered topics from safety for older adults to identifying potential active shooter threats. Attendees heard f rom featured speakers including Jim Pauley, president and CEO of the
National Fire Protection Association; Amanda Sandoval, Hillary Dubois Farquharson, and Gabrielle Sullivan from High Rock Treatment Center; and Lieutenant Matthew Morin of the Sunderland Fire Department, who promoted diversity, equity, and effective communication in fire prevention.
The Massachusetts Fire and Life Safety Education Conference brings fire educators, prevention officers, teachers, care specialists, and others together to share knowle dge, build partnerships, and improve safety services in Massachusetts’ communities. This year’s conference was held at the Southbridge Hotel and Conference Center in Southbridge.
- Submitted by Jake Wark
Crews from five area fire departments gathered at Millers Pond State Park in Durham (CT) on August 22, 2023, fora joint waterrescue training. Emergency services are frequently dispatched to the park to assist park-goers with hiking and swimming injuries, waterrescues and drownings in the park’s 30-acre, spring fed pond. Although the pond isn’t designated as a swimming area, nine victims have drowned in the Millers Pond since 2000. During the drill, dive team personnel from the City of Middletown, Middletown South District, and Portland, participated in underwatersearch-andrescues, while others practiced managing operations from the shoreline.
Recently the Hartford (CT) County Regional Fire School fall class started and this large class of 30-plus firefighters were introduced to SCBA. The class went through a 10-point inspection, 45-second drill, then they went into five different stations in full gear on airfor a firefighterchallenge, which included a maze, emergency proce-
dures, low profile work and trapped and disoriented firefighter scenario. Forsome it was an eye opener, but they quickly learned how important each station was and how theirskills can save theirown life and theirfellow brothers and sisters in a fire.
An East Granby (CT) firefighterat a joint exercise with the Connecticut AirNational Guard on August 14, 2023.
AWest Haven (CT) officertaking a quick break at a second alarm fire on Ocean Avenue on July 29, 2023.
