In this issue...
3+ AlarmsManchester, NH
Area firefighters battled a stubborn 3-alarm blaze on Sullivan Street, in Manchester.
See story on page 4
Warwick Building Fire
Warwick RI firefighters were dispatched to a reported building fire in the 700 block of West Shore road.
See story on page 6
Hamilton Responds to Essex Ave. Blaze
First-due companies arrived to heavy smoke and fire showing from the basement, floor 2 and the roof.
See story on page 7
Uxbridge Firefighters
Battle House Fire
A chimney fire extended to all floors and the attic of a 2-1/2 story wood frame two-family residence.
See story on page 9
Orange 100th Anniversary Parade
The Connecticut State Fire Convention was held in Orange (CT) this year in honor of its 100th anniversary.
See story on page 26
Tributes
Dracut’s Jacob Martin
Fall River’s, Framingham’s Keith Cashman
See story on page 28
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3+ Alarms - Manchester, NH
Area firefighters battled a stubborn three-alarm blaze on Sullivan Street, in Manchester (NH). Multiple injured people reported. Crews reported occupants jumping from the second and third
floors as firefighters arrived at the scene. The cause of the fire was under investigation by officials. - Fire News photos
by Jeffrey Hastings, Sean Fesko/911 ERV and Jay Heath
Warwick Building Fire
Granite State Recycling Center 3-Alarm Fire
On September 19, 2025, Weare (NH) crews responded to a three-alarm commercial fire at the Granite State Recycling Center. - Fire News photo by Jay Heath
On September 6, 2025, Warwick (RI) firefighters were dispatched to a reported building fire in the 700 block of West Shote Road. The first arriving unit found heavy smoke coming from a brick strip mall style building. Crews initially had heavy fire in the rear of the building and stretched a line. Firefighters made entry and conducted a primary search which was negative. Firefighters opened the roof before being ordered off the roof and out of the building. Crews battled heavy fire coming from the roof. Defensive operations were set in place. While conducting a defensive operation firefighters vented the glass storefront window and attacked the fire. Firefighters remained on scene for multiple hours to gain control of the fire. A cause was yet to be determined. - Fire News photo by Austin Daniels
Hamilton Responds to Essex Ave. Blaze
The Hamilton Fire Department (HFD; NH) responded for a building fire on Essex Avenue in the heavily-congested Asbury Grove section of town. First-due companies had heavy smoke and fire showing from the basement, second floor and through the roof. An aggressive interior attack and search for victims began immediately upon arrival. Conditions rapidly deteriorated, as the fire had made significant headway before called-in. Companies were later pulled out of the building when the roof started collapsing in, from the heavy fire conditions. Crews re-entered the building minutes later. No injuries were reported. HFD was assisted on scene by crews from the cities of Beverly, Danvers, Wenham and Topsfield. Fire is under investigation.
- Fire News photos by Glenn S. Preston
New Haven Scrap Yard Fire
New Haven (CT) firefighters responded to the Alderman-Dow Iron and Metal Scrap Yard on Chapel Street for a fire on September 23, 2025. Engine 4 and Truck 1 were called out for a small fire in the scrap yard. Companies had a header while en route and transmitted the box. One tower ladder and two handlines operated on a pile of scrap metal on fire upon arrival. The fire took about an hour to bring under control.
- Fire News photo by Glenn Duda, Allahndsworking
Heavy Fire Showing from Marlborough Home
Marlborough (CT) firefighters responded to heavy fire showing from a house on Isleib Road on September 28, 2025 at 1624 hours. Numerous mutual aid units assisted at the scene.
- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
Uxbridge Firefighters
Battle House Fire
Firefighters battled a working fire in Uxbridge (MA). A chimney fire extended to all floors and the attic of a 2-1/2 story wood frame two-family residence. Firefighters made a great stop with limited manpower. The call came in around 0130 reporting smoke in the building. Firefighters arrived and saw flames coming out of the attic. The fire was brought under control in about an hour. No injuries reported and two people were left temporarily homeless.
- Fire News photo by Matt Gregoire
Smoke Showing at Arlington House Fire
At 0800 hours on October 10, 2025, the Arlington (MA) Fire Department responded to report of a house fire on Palmer Street. On arrival, smoke was showing and there was fire on the second floor. A working fire was ordered, followed by a second alarm. Arlington firefighters were assisted by Lexington, Belmont, Medford, Somerville and Newton firefighters at the scene.
- Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan
Hartford Strikes 2 Alarms for Madison Ave. Fire
Hartford (CT) responded to a two-alarm call for Madison Avenue on October 2, 2025 at 1600 hours for heavy fire from the rear porches.
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Wide Radius Mutual Aid Response for Torrington Mill Fire
Canaan (CT) Fire Company Ladder 1 is seen here 12 hours after the initial alarm sent them to a working mill fire in Torrington (CT) on September 28, 2025. Canaan was one of numerous companies routed in. It was a 30-plus-mile mutual aid run for them.
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Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
Fire News photo by Ed Harvey
East Hartford Garage Fire
East Hartford (CT) first-due Engine 1 arrived on Lawrence Street on September 6, 2025, to heavy fire from a single-car attached garage. Companies made a quick knockdown with minor extension to the inside of the house.
Garden City Jakes Make Excellent Stop as Propane Tanks Bleve
Beverly (MA) Fire (BFD) responded to a fire at the rear of the home, when propane ignited under pressure; causing a torch to emit from the grille, getting the exterior of the building going. The fire quickly involved the outside and inside of the rear of the building. Crews had heavy smoke and fire showing on arrival. As a member ran a line to the rear and started a stream ... the grill’s propane tank Bleve’d, knocking a BFD member down. Car 2 requested mutual aid from Wenham, Peabody, Danvers and Salem. Fast water and proper line placement made all of the difference at this job in The Garden City. - Fire News photo by Glenn
Going Rd. Multi Car Fires
Shirley (MA) firefighters, with the assistance from surrounding mutual aid, extinguished multiple cars on fire on Going Road. Multiple big handlines were used to knock down the fire. About 97 cars were either on fire or damaged. Companies remained on scene for several hours overhauling. - Fire
Trash Fire in Waterbury
- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
News photo by Patrick Kerrigan
Preston photo
Waterbury (CT) firefighters responded to the city dump on October 10, 2025, for a pile of trash on fire. The fire was knocked down in 20 minutes. - Fire News photo by Rick Kulmann
Hyannis Boat Fire
- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
This Looks Familiar
Nashua (NH) firefighters arrived to find fire showing from the rear of a large multi-family dwelling in the early hours of September 11, 2025. Companies stretched multiple handlines and had the fire knocked down in a short amount of time. The building has been the scene of previous multiple-alarm fires in years past.
- Fire News photo by Patrick Kerrigan
Manchester Oven Fire
Manchester (CT) companies were dispatched to Elro Street on September 10, 2025 at 1728 hours for an oven fire. Engine 6 arrived to fire showing out the rear door of the residence. This building also burned and was torn down in January of 2019.
- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
Lafayette St. Bus Fire
On the morning of September 17, 2025, the Yantic (CT) Volunteer Fire Department responded to a commuter bus fire on Lafayette Street. in their first-due district. Two handlines were placed into service. Drying agent and brooms were used to contain fluids leaking from the bus. Engine 3 and Truck 1 from Norwich assisted at the scene. There were no injuries. The Norwich Fire Marshal’s office was investigating. - Photo courtesy of AC Paul O’Connell
Hyannis (Cape Cod, MA) responded for a boat fire on Skating Rink Road on August 17, 2025 at about 0915 hours.
Nosiness Has a Fitting Reward
On September 8, 2025, a woman driving an SUV stopped in the middle of the street in Upton (MA) to take video of ICE members making a traffic stop in front of Pratt Pond on North Main Street. The driver didn’t put the SUV in park and, when she exited the vehicle, it rolled into the pond. Calls came in and when fire assets arrived, they found the driver safe and then assisted the tow company extricating the SUV from the pond. - Fire News photo by Matt Gregoire
Waterbury Drowning at East Mountain Park
On September 27, 2025, Waterbury (CT) firefighters were called to a reservoir on East Mountain Road for a swimmer who did not resurface. The regional dive team was called in and the 30-year-old victim was recovered about an hour later. - Fire News photo by Rick Kulmann
Operator Trapped Under Vehicle in Litchfield
Litchfield (NH) Fire Rescue responded to Cardinal Lane recently for a man trapped under an off-road vehicle (ATV). The side-by-side was in the woods on private property. Initial information was that the vehicle was stuck and the operator was attempting to pull it out when the vehicle rolled over trapping him. Londonderry Fire and Hudson Fire responded mutual aid bringing additional fire and EMS personnel to the scene. The victim was unresponsive and CPR began and a pulse was restored, the man was transported to the Elliot Hospital with what was called lifethreatening injuries.
- Fire News photo by Jeffrey Hastings
3-Alarm Blaze on Winding Road
Bedford (NH) firefighters responded for a three-alarm fire which eventually destroyed a house on Winding Road. The fire appeared to have started in the attic. The fire took firefighters several hours
to contain. One firefighter was transported for smoke inhalation. - Fire
News photos by Jay Heath
Looking Back
Seaview Ave. in Bridgeport 2014
A massive fire started at around 1850 on September 11, 2014, in Bridgeport, (CT). Battalion 2 was first on scene reporting light smoke from a 2 city block long factory. Shortly after, the assignment would go to the equivalent of a 5th alarm. The warehouse housed a perfume factory, as well as a roofing company. Chemicals stored in upwards of 55,000 barrels exploded like fireballs into the night sky. Run-off from the firefighting operations has also caused a massive problem in the surrounding bodies of water. Coast Guard and D.E.P. are investigating the reach of the damage into the water. Radiant heat from the blaze had police and fire evacuating people from neighborhoods close to the fire.
- Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com
Benson Street Tractor Fires 2003
On July 29, 2003, Fitchburg (MA) firefighters responded to multiple tractor trailers on fire on Benson Street.
- Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade
Training
Simsbury Live Burn
On September 29, 2025, the Simsbury (CT) Volunteer Fire Company trained at the Weatogue training grounds. Companies from the Main House and West Simsbury took part in the live burn. Crews rotated through fire attack, RIT, ventilation and SAR. The drill was run by Captain Todd Kelley.
- Fire News photo by John DeForest
Simsbury Fire Drills
Simsbury (CT) Volunteer Fire Company members from Tariffville and Firetown took part in live fire drills at the training center in Weatogue (CT) for a live burn session. Crews arrived on scene to find a fully involved car fire next to a three-story brick building. In the first evolution, Engine 7 arrived, quickly attacked the car fire and then attacked a fire on the second floor. Companies made multiple rescues as well from the building. In the second evolution, Engine 16 arrived to a fully involved car fire. Crews knocked down the car fire and then advanced into the three-story building located the fire, knocked it down and made rescues. Both crews worked together for the final evolution, as well.
- Fire News photo by John DeForest
Training
Vehicle Extrication Training in Branford
On August 25, 2025, Branford (CT) Fire Division 3 trained on vehicle extrication and stabilization.
- Fire News photo by Jack McCarthy (Fill The Box Fire Photography)
Hose Day at Hartford Fire School
On September 13, 2025, Hartford (CT) County Regional Fire School spent a beautiful fall day outside with Hose Day. Firefighters took part at five different stations: a car fire, 2-1/2 lines, stand pipes at the tower, sprinklers, and 1-3/4 hose line at the B building. Crews worked together at each station and understood their individual jobs. - Fire News photo by John DeForest
Manchester-Boston Regional Airport Holds MCI Drill Training
A plane taking off from the Manchester-Boston Regional Airport struck a vehicle while taking off and crashed.
Over 200 people participated in this mock disaster at the airport. The scenario involved a person stealing a motorized vehicle from the airport and driving onto the active runway where it was struck by an aircraft. Seventy-five agencies participated, providing EMS, fire, and law enforcement to work on the drill, which is held every three years per FAA guidelines.
Actors arrived at 0500 to receive make up which provided realistic injuries (called moulage) on which responders could work. Mock aircraft were placed on the runway with fire and smoke to further create a realistic scenario.
Patients were evaluated, treated and transported to several hospitals in southern New Hampshire.
The runway, although closed for the drill, allowed for normal flights to take off and land without interruption.
Newport (NH) training on new Pierce Engine. - Fire News photo by Steve Yannuzzi
- Fire News photos by Jefrey Hastings
Springfield 9/11 Memorial
On September 11, 2025, the City of Springfield (MA) held a 9/11 memorial at Riverfront Park, commemorating the 24th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the United States. Hundreds gathered for the memorial on a beautiful Thursday evening.
- Fire News photos by John DeForest
Special Guest at Fundraiser
Ladies Auxiliary held its annual golf tournament in Simsbury at the Hop Meadow Country Club. It was a beautiful day for the event which brought many competitive teams vying for first, second and third place and also support the department and auxiliary. We even had a special guest in the form of four legs looking for treats, not sure if he paid his entry fee though. - Fire News photos by John DeForest
Fall River 9/11 Memorial
For the 24th year since the terrorist attacks on our country, the public gathered at the 9/11 Memorial at Battleship Cove to honor the memory of those souls lost on that day. The ceremony included the ringing of a bell aboard one of the ships with the code for a fire service LODD. Public Safety officials and politicians gave brief remarks followed by a wreath laying and a 21-gun salute fired from the battleship. White doves were then released during the playing of Taps.
- Fire News photos by Ken Leger
Yarmouth Lieutenant Honored as Fire & Life Safety Educator of the Year
Lieutenant Matthew Bearse of the Yarmouth (MA) Fire Department was named the 2025 Fire and Life Safety Educator of the Year at the Department of Fire Services’ 30th Annual Fire and Life Safety Education Conference, State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine said.
“By all accounts, Lt. Bearse has energized the Yarmouth Fire Department’s fire safety education efforts and worked collaboratively with partners across agencies and disciplines,” State Fire Marshal Davine said. “Those efforts have yielded remarkable results, with one youngster using the lessons he taught to ‘get low and go’ when a fire broke out in her home.”
Also nominated for the award were: Captain William Paskiewicz of the Billerica Fire Department;; Team Billerica from the Town of Billerica; Firefighter Melvin Pichardo of the Chelmsford Fire Department; and Firefighter Anthony Leite of the Lowell Fire Department;
The candidates for this year’s award were nominated by their fire departments, community residents, and partner agencies. Each received a certificate recognizing their nomination and commitment to the interests of fire prevention and safety. The winner was selected by a panel drawn from the fire service and the Fire Safety Division of the Department of Fire Services.
In remarks emphasizing the importance of safety education, State Fire Marshal Davine noted that fire deaths and injuries have been declining in Massachusetts since the conference was first held in 1995.
The ceremony capped off two days and dozens of workshops led by professionals from the fire service, public education, public health, community risk reduction, and related fields. More than 250 fire and life safety educators attended on each of the two days. Featured speakers included Connecticut State Fire Marshal Laurie Volkert and Vermont State Fire Marshal Michael Desrochers, who also serves as president of the National Association of State Fire Marshals. - Submitted by Jake Wark
Branford Promotions
A ceremony was held at Branford Fire Headquarters on September 25, 2025, for recently promoted members. In total there were two deputy chiefs, three captains, and two new members of the EMS Division. Promoted To Deputy Chief were James Carson and Craig
CFSI EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR BILL WEBB ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT
After serving as CFSI Executive Director for the past 30 years, Bill Webb announced his retirement effective December 31, 2025. He made the announcement a reception attended by members of the CFSI National Advisory Com-mittee and others.
“A friend of mine recently summed up his career by saying you never have to work a day in your life if you enjoy what you’re doing,” said Webb in his remarks.
“For the most part, those words describe how I feel about my work. I”
As Executive Director, Webb worked with six administrations and 10 U.S. Fire Administrators. His contributions to the fire service, including his role in the creation of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program in 2000, his support for the United States Fire Administration and National Fire Academy, and his advocacy for fire safety and prevention, among other issues, have significantly impacted public safety in our nation. In lauding Webb for his contributions to the fire service, CFSI President Jim Estepp quoted Harry Truman who said, “It’s amazing what you can accomplish if you don’t care who gets the credit.”
“At times a quiet force, Bill has undoubtedly proven himself as a pivotal fire service leader, influencing important issues in Washington, DC, that have greatly benefited our nation’s fire and emergency services,” said CFSI President Jim Estepp. “We will miss his leadership.”
O’Rourke. Promoted to Captain were Tyler Mahoney, Jeffrey O’Connor and Garrett Lizee. Hired by the EMS Division were Paramedic Michael Hall and EMT Nathan Stackpole. - Fire News photos by Jack McCarthy
STATE FARM AND NVFC SUPPORT LOCAL FIRE DEPARTMENTS WITH $1.5 MILLION IN GRANTS
State Farm® and the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) have teamed up for the second year to support local volunteer fire departments with funding to secure needed equipment to help keep their responders safe and protect their communities. Through this year’s Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program, 150 departments in 44 states received a $10,000 grant.
Many of these small-town and rural fire departments operate with limited budgets, making it difficult to meet the rising costs of the equipment and gear they need to best serve their communities These grants are a lifeline for local departments to obtain equipment that will increase safety, efficiency, and effectiveness. Grants will be used to purchase a wide variety of department necessities, including personal protective equipment, EMS and rescue tools, communication devices, and much more.
State Farm and the NVFC will also join 10 of the fire department recipients at a community engagement event this fall, which may include an open house, fire prevention event, parade, or other local gathering.
“The NVFC is proud to team up with State Farm to continue the Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program and provide critical assistance to volunteer fire departments,” said NVFC Chair Steve Hirsch. “Firefighting and rescue equipment is expensive, and many departments struggle to find the funding they need. These grants from State Farm enable small departments to secure equipment they need to be better prepared to serve their communities and protect their responders.
Estepp announced that CFSI Director of Government Affairs Michaela Campbell, a seasoned leader with a strong track record, will serve as the organization’s next Executive Director. “Throughout the years, Michaela has demonstrated herself to be a strong leader and effective voice for our nation’s fire services,” said Estepp. “I am confident that she will continue the legacy of strong leadership set by Bill Webb as our next Executive Director.”
Since the Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program launched in 2024, $2.5 million has been awarded to 250 local fire departments. Find information about the grant program, including a list of departments receiving the grants, on the NVFC web site at www.nvfc.org/statefarm.
New Officers in Fall River
New officers were sworn in at a ceremony at the Fall River Government Center on September 25, 2025. Those firefighters sworn in attained the ranks of District Chief, Captain, and Leutenant. The ceremony was held in the “Hall of Flags” in the Fall River Room on the sixth floor of Government Center. Two new firefighters were also sworn in to the department to begin their journeys as Fall River Firefighters. - Fire News photos by Ken Leger
Hartford Promotion/Recruit Graduation Ceremony
Orange 100th Anniversary Parade
The Hartford (CT) Promotion/Recruit Graduation Ceremony was held on September 5, 2025. The recruits went to working companies and began service in a week’s time. - Fire News photos by Patrick Dooley
The Connecticut State Fire Convention was held in Orange (CT) this year on September 14, 2025, as the department was celebrating its 100th year anniversary. Several departments from around the
Connecticut came to participate. - Fire News photos by Jack McCarthy (Fill The Box Fire Photography)
Swansea Community Open House
On a beautiful fall October 5, 2025 day, Swansea (MA) residences along with fire department members gathered at Station 2 for a fun-filled afternoon. Firefighters along with utility companies set up safety displays to entertain and educate the guests. Participants could tour a fire safety trailer as well as handle a live hoseline.
Members used hydraulic rescue tools to access the interior of a wrecked vehicle and used a live fire display to show fire and smoke travel in a simulated two-story home. By all accounts everyone enjoyed the afternoon.
- Fire News photos by Ken Leger
Dracut’s Jacob Martin Tributes
Chief Michael Cunha and the Dracut (MA) Fire Department announced that active-duty Firefighter Jacob Martin, passed away on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at Lahey Hospital and Medical Center, with his loving family by his side. He was 32 years old.
Firefighter Martin was a 2011 graduate of Greater Lowell Technical High School and a second generation firefighter. His father is Dracut Fire Lt. Paul Martin (ret.) and his uncle was Firefighter Marc Martin (ret.).
Firefighter Martin graduated from the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy in February of 2023, and joined the department immediately. He was assigned to Engine 2 and worked out of the Jones Avenue Fire Station.
Firefighter Martin previously worked for Pridestar Trinity EMS in Lowell.
He is survived by his fiancée Aislinn Kearns, his parents, sister and
brother-in-law, Angela and Christopher DeMange; a brother, Zachary Martin; three nephews, Lincoln who was his godson, Owen and Callen; his grandmothers, Rosemarie Martin and Rita Hughes; his best friend, Travis Martin; and several aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
“Firefighter Jake Martin was a true pleasure to be around — laid back, easygoing, and always ready with a smile,” said Chief Cunha. “In his three years with us, he showed a quiet dedication to the job and a real eagerness to learn. He found joy in the little things — whether it was picking up his guitar during downtime at the station or stepping up to join the District 6 Forestry Hand Crew. Jake was part of our family, and his presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to work beside him.”
Donations may be made to an Organ Transplant Service or the MakeA-Wish Foundation of which Jake was a beneficiary.
- Submitted by Robert Mills; photos courtesy of Dracut FD
Fall River’s, Framingham’s Keith Cashman
On Friday, October 10, 2025, firefighters, family and friends gathered to say goodbye to a 15-year-veteran firefighter, Keith Cashman who passed away on October 4, 2025. Keith was 52-years old.
Keith started his career with the Fall River Fire Department for five years before transferring to Framingham Fire for the past 10 years. Keith’s grandfather, father, and uncle were all firefighters with the Fall River Fire Department. Unfortunately, because of budgetary layoffs, Keith was forced to leave the department but found a new home with the Framingham Fire Department before his untimely death.
In addition to his wife, Erika, he is survived by his son, Kevin Cashman of Fall River; twin daughters, Cassidy and Angelina Cashman
both of Swansea; one sister, Debra Furtado; one brother, Joe Furtado; two grandchildren, Jayden and Kiva Cashman all of Fall River; motherin-law, Miriam Santiago; father-in-law, Louis Leeman both of Swansea; sisters-in-law, Jerilyn Karam-Kozak of Swansea, Jessica Slater of Freetown, Allana Allik of Pawcatuck, CT, brother-in-law, Richard Leeman of Swansea, along with many cherished nieces, nephews, beloved brothers and sisters- in-law, and a large loving family of aunts, uncles and cousins.
Contributions in his honor may be made to the American Heart Association, PO Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692.
- Fire News photos by Ken Leger
20 Local Firefighters Graduate from Firefighting Academy
State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine and Massachusetts Firefighting Academy leadership today announced the graduation of 20 firefighters from the 50-day Career Recruit Firefighting Training Program.
The graduating firefighters of Class “bw36” represents the fire departments of Avon, Brookline, Dighton, Hyannis, Kingston, Marshfield, Medford, Middleborough, Orleans, Sandwich, Sharon, Somerville, West Bridgewater, Wrentham, and Yarmouth.
The Richard N. Bangs Outstanding Student Award, which is presented to one recruit in each graduating career recruit training class, was presented to Firefighter Joseph Oesterle of the Brookline Fire Department. The award is named for the longtime chair of the Massachusetts Fire Training Council and reflects the recruit’s academic and practical skills, testing, and evaluations over the course of the 10-week program.
- Submitted by Jake Wark
19 Local Firefighters Graduate from Firefighting Academy
State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine and Massachusetts Firefighting Academy leadership today announced the graduation of 19 firefighters from the 50-day Career Recruit Firefighting Training Program.
The graduating firefighters of Class 332 represent the fire departments of Beverly, Blackstone, Charlton, Dracut, Gardner, Medfield, Medway, Melrose, Northborough, Reading, and Weston.
The Richard N. Bangs Outstanding Student Award, which is presented to one recruit in each graduating career recruit training class, was presented to Firefighter Colin King of the Northborough Fire Department. The award is named for the longtime chair of the Massachusetts Fire Training Council and reflects the recruit’s academic and practical skills, testing, and evaluations over the course of the 10-week program.
- Submitted by Jake Wark
22 Local Firefighters Graduate from Firefighting Academy
State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine and Massachusetts Firefighting Academy leadership today announced the graduation of 22 firefighters from the 50-day Career Recruit Firefighting Training Program.
The graduating firefighters of Class #S42 represent the fire departments of Amherst, Belchertown, Braintree, Falmouth, Greenfield, Hopkinton, Longmeadow, Monson, Northampton, Oxford, and West Springfield.
The Richard N. Bangs Outstanding Student Award, which is presented to one recruit in each graduating career recruit training class, was presented to Firefighter Matthew Gardner of the Greenfield Fire Department. The award is named for the longtime chair of the Massachusetts Fire Training Council, who passed away on October 2, and it reflects the recruit’s academic and practical skills, testing, and evaluations over the course of the 10-week program.
- Submitted by Jake Wark
Up Close & Personal
Springfield (MA) Union President Local 648 Brian Ward at a recent fire.
- Fire News photo by John DeForest
First Lieutenant Eric Fowler of Beverly (MA) Engine 3 rehabs after a good shot at a second alarm in the north side of the Garden City.
- Fire News photo by Glenn S. Preston
Mr. Roger Baker; director and founder of “Rehab-5” stands by at a recent multiple on Boston’s North Shore. He has volunteered thousands of hours, helping out MA Fire District 5 jakes, for almost five decades.
- Fire News photo by Glenn S. Preston
Marlborough (CT) firefighters taking a break at Isleib Road house fire on September 28, 2025.
- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
Branford (CT) Fire Division 4 firefighters after a recent training.
- Fire News photo by Jack McCarthy (Fill The Box Fire Photography)
Manchester (CT) firefighters at scene of Elro Street Fire on September 10, 2025.
- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
Firefighters from the Hartford (CT) Fire Department after a recent fire. - Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
State Fire Marshal and Fire Chiefs Make Statewide Push on Expired Smoke Alarms
Alarms Installed Shortly After 2015 Fire Code Change Should Be Replaced
STOW—State Fire Marshal
Jon M. Davine and the Fire Chiefs Association of Massachusetts (FCAM) are teaming up this month to draw attention to a wave of smoke alarms that are nearing the end of their useful lifespans.
In 2015, a change to the Massachusetts Comprehensive Fire Safety Code set a new requirement that replacement smoke alarms in most Massachusetts homes have a sealed, 10-year battery and a “hush” feature. This requirement reduces the likelihood that residents will disable the device after a nuisance alarm from cooking smoke or remove the batteries for use in another device.
The long-life batteries in these alarms are reliable only for 10 years. For that reason, the alarms purchased and put into service by early adopters of this code change may no longer be reliable soon.
“Smoke alarms are like any other appliance – they don’t last forever,” said Brockton Fire Chief Brian Nardelli, who serves as FCAM’s First Vice President. “Right now, the alarms that were purchased and put into service 10 years ago are reaching the end of their useful lifespan. Our concern is that a wave of smoke alarms in homes across Massachusetts won’t be reliable in the months ahead. If the manufacturing date on the back of your alarm is more than 10 years old, or if it doesn’t have a date, replace it right away. If it’s not 10 years old and it takes alkaline batteries, this is a great time to put fresh batteries in to be sure you’re protected through the winter.”
Chief Nardelli held a press conference today with State Fire Marshal Jon Davine, Duxbury Fire Chief Rob Reardon, and fire chiefs from across Southeastern Massachusetts. It was the second of three such events, with one in Westborough on Tuesday and one in Easthampton later this month.
“When it’s time to replace your smoke alarms, we strongly recommend choosing new alarms that meet UL Standard 217, 8th Edition or later,” said State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine. “Look for that language on the packaging or the product specifications. These devices use the
latest multi-criteria technology, which helps to prevent nuisance alarms caused by cooking smoke. And never disable a smoke alarm. Tragically, we found working smoke alarms at only about onethird of last winter’s fatal fires.”
“Sealed-battery smoke alarms are powered by lithium-ion batteries, so please don’t put them in your household trash or recycling,” said Duxbury Fire Chief Rob Reardon. “If they’re crushed or punctured in a compactor truck or a transfer station, they could cause a fire that’s very difficult to extinguish. As lithium-ion batteries have become more common, we’ve started seeing more and more of these trash and transfer station fires, and it’s a safe bet that the root cause is battery damage.”
Each spring and fall, the Massachusetts fire service reminds residents to check their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms when they change their clocks. The reminder is especially urgent this year as so many smoke alarms may need to be replaced. The State Fire Marshal’s office and Fire Chiefs Association of Massachusetts urge residents to follow these safety tips:
• Check the manufacturing date printed on the back of your smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms
• Replace smoke alarms after 10 years and CO alarms according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually after 5, 7, or 10 years depending on make and model)
• Choose new smoke alarms from a well-known national brand and look for the mark of an independent testing lab such as UL or Intertek/ETL
• Be sure the replacement alarm has a sealed, long-life battery and a hush feature and meets UL Standard 217, 8th Edition or later
Many communities have programs that can assist older or lowincome residents who need help installing or maintaining their alarms. Contact your local fire department for more information.
- Submitted by Jake Wark
