VOLUME 3, NO. 2
W W W .FIRENE WS .COM
Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Since 1973 MARCH 2015
See full story on page 25. - Fire News photo by Robert Ladd
Networking: A Dying Art in the Fire Service See Steve Austin’s article on page 4 -Southern New England Edition-
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Fire News, March 2015, Page 3
In this issue... Arson in Woonsocket Woonsocket (RI) companies responded to a three-story, six-unit apartment building with heavy fire venting. See story page 6
Working Fire in Berlin The Berlin Volunteer Fire Department, along with the three other companies, were dispatched to High View Terrace for a structure fire. See story page 10
Exploding Ammo Complicates Canaan Fire
Canaan fire crews responded to a structure fire on Salisbury Road.
See story page 16
2 Escape Hartford Fire
Hartford firefighters responded to a two-alarm blaze on Albany Avenue. See story page 22
Firearm Mishap Requires Life Star Life Star was called to the scene of a shooting accident behind a residence on Wiese Albert Road in Haddam.
See story page 30
Jon Davies Memorial Dedication A dedication was held for Worcester Firefighter Jon Davies of Rescue 1, who lost his life in a collapse on December 8, 2011. See story page 33
PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 Industry News
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 37
Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 37 Up Close and Personal . . . . . . . . . . .page 38,39
A Service for Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island Firefighters and EMS Providers Founded 1973
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FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher TIM EDWARDS, Executive Editor DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor GARY P. JOYCE, Asst. Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production/Sales LYNN SEDLER, Art Director CLIFF CHIESA, Production Manager Advertising Sales: BARBARA CONNOLLY, EVELYN ALOISIO Graphic Artist: GREG JONES, CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS GABE BALSAMO, ALAN BRACKETT, MARIE BRENNAN, AMANDA CARMODY, OWEN CARRIGAN, THOMAS CARMODY, DAVID CINQ-MARS, ROGER CONANT, KEVIN CZARZASTY, TIM DELANEY, ROB DILLON, PATRICK DOOLEY, DOUG DOW, OLIVIA DRAKE, GLENN DUDA, LIZ FEITELBERG, SEAN FREIMAN, MATT GASKINS, TIM GORMAN, JOHN HANLEY, ED HARVEY, JEFFREY HASTINGS, STEPHEN HESS, MIKE IPPOLITO, DORRANCE “DOC” JOHNSON, KEN LABELLE, ROBERT LADD, MICHAEL LAPRADE, SCOTT LAPRADE, PAUL LAROCHELLE, JR., KEN LEGER, MIKE MCGONEGAL, CHARLIE MCGRATH, KEITH MURATORI, RICK NOHL, BILL NOONAN, PETER OSTROSKEY JR., REG PATCHELL, JIM PERUTA, PETER POZERSKI, GLENN PRESTON, ROB REARDON, LARRY RILEY, PAUL SHEA, JOE SHEFER, NICK STEHN, CHRIS STEINES, PHIL SULLIVAN, RICK SUSI, PAT TRAVERS, STEPHEN WALSH COPYRIGHT 2014, THE FIRE NEWS LLC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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Page 4, Fire News, March 2015
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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor
Working Together in the Winter Winter creates problems for first responders. You are expected to perform flawlessly. I followed a few departments this month and was amazed how well departments performed flawlessly throughout the frigid Northeast. Firefighters encrusted in ice as they battle and contain flames is nothing new. Do a search on Google Images for “Ice Covered Firefighters” and you will see that battling fires under adverse conditions is nothing new to us. Despite horrendous weather conditions, responders throughout the country never let the weather stand in their way of doing a spectacular job to save John Q. Public. Firefighters in Brooklyn recently battled a seven alarm wind driven, below-freezing, blaze. The blaze was brought under control, but not before firefighters, equipment and the community was encrusted in ice. Rather than complaining, a firefighter stated that the fire could have been worse; “at least the wind was at our backs.” It is this type of attitude that makes all first responders special. EMTs have the same problem. As soon as the first snowflake falls, they are faced with the dangers of traveling down unplowed roads, carrying patients over snow banks and down icy walkways. You do what you do because you care about the people whose lives you are saving. A few months ago, Buffalo, New York, was pounded by lake-effect snow. Responders from all over the state left their homes to help their brothers and sisters get through the storm. Snowmobiles, trucks and, in the end brute strength, was used to carry people to safety. Thanks to all the EMTs for your dedication and commitment to excellence in the emergency services. I am amazed as I drive through my community and see fire hydrants covered with ice and snow, many not even visible. It is an impossible task for firefighters to travel through a community to dig out fire hydrants, especially during the time of an alarm. The community must be made aware that we need their help to make sure we can help them in time of need. Many junior firefighters go out and work hard to clear hydrants, but they cannot be expected to maintain and keep the snow away. Since most schools are closed during storms, fire departments should encourage schools to give community service credit to students who clear away the snow around the fire hydrants on the streets where the students live. They must look after the hydrant as plows clear away the snow on the street and push in back on the hydrants. Winter creates many problems for first responders. Overcoming these problems is a task that the community must participate in. On a good note, spring is around the corner! …Dennis
Networking: a Dying Art in the Fire Service by Steve Austin If you are reading this article and a first thought is that networking has something to do with the Wi-Fi connection in your home you probably should read on. Networking in the boomer generation is a preferred method of passing knowledge along in the fire service. The type of networking I am referring to is building personal relationships with others in the fire service that can be helpful to your career and potentially to the person you are interacting with. I began thinking about this subject in a conversation with the late Harvey Eisner following the Baltimore Firehouse Expo last summer, only a couple months before he died. He had a vast knowledge of the fire service, knew what kind of firefighters attended trade shows and why they came. Tradeshow attendance in the fire industry has been tailing off. The internet has a lot to do with this because it isn’t as necessary to attend shows to learn about new products. Also (sadly) there may not be the interest in some cases as there once was to hear speakers. I suggested to Harvey an additional reason might be the fact that millenniums may not understand nor appreciate how to develop networking relationships. In the past, fire trade shows were the place where people met face-toface to exchange contact information and more. Part of the demise may be due to a different understanding of what networking is and what it can do for a person’s career. Being connected electronically is not the same as having a level of trust with someone who you have interacted with for years. Alabama Football Coach Nick Saban doesn’t text and has no email address. In a recent article by
Ben Cohen in The Wall Street Journal, Coach Saban was quoted, “If you can’t see someone face-to-face and look them in the eye the next best thing is to call somebody and have a conversation. It’s a lost art today.” As someone who does text, Tweets and has a Facebook account along with running a couple of websites, I wouldn’t go as far as Coach Saban, but. I do think, that an over reliance on electronic communication may be diminishing interpersonal relationships. Building a network is done the old fashioned way by seeking out and even waiting in line to speak with someone who has the information and the contacts needed to help you become a better member of the fire service. That’s done at fire shows and training opportunities. Arriving home with a stack of business cards with notes scribbled on the back is the beginning of developing relationships that could last a lifetime. Using social media and texting can enhance that experience but it can never replace it. I began networking when there were no cell phones and the internet hadn’t been invented, so the only option was to get out there and shake some hands. It’s not a bad thing. The next time you are at a fire show try leaving your phone in your pocket for a while. You might be surprised who you meet.
Page 6, Fire News, March 2015
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Arson in Woonsocket
A third alarm was struck for Wood Avenue on a frigid January 19, 2015. Roads were extremely iced as Woonsocket (RI) companies responded. The three-story, six-unit apartment building had heavy fire venting from the entire Alpha eave line as units arrived, with the fire quickly racing across the cockloft from the Bravo to Delta side. Three ladder pipes and several handlines were used to bring
the fire under control. Crews rescued a cat from an upper floor. The roof of the complex collapsed into the third floor making overhauling unsafe, and the city ordered emergency demolition of the apartment the next day. The fire was ruled arson by investigators. - Fire News photos by Ken LaBelle
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Cambridge 2-Alarmer
On December 24, 2014, the Cambridge (MA) Fire Department responded to Broadway for a fire in a two-store taxpayer. A second alarm was sounded, and after the firefighters opened the roof, heavy fire pushed out. Units were ordered off the roof and exterior firefighting operations were commenced. Ladder 2 (tower ladder) and Ladder 1 operated ladder pipes on the fire, and the major body of fire was knocked down. An extensive overhaul operation continued for several hours. - Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan
Fire News, March 2015, Page 7
Arson Suspected in Providence
On December 16, 2014, a call went out in Providence for a mattress fire on the porch of a house. First-due, Engine 14 reported fire showing in a 2-1/2 story vacant house. As engine companies began to stretch lines, members of Ladders 6 and 3 forced entry inside and began searches. They reported no one inside but the fire had spread to the interior and was traveling upwards. Extra companies were immediately summoned and placed the fire under control within 45 minutes. - Fire News photo by Tom Carmody
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4-Alarmer in Douglas
On January 9, 2015, a four-alarm fire broke out during a snow limited water supply and tankers from area towns were summoned squall on Southwest Main Street in Douglas (MA). The cottage style to the scene. A camper was located adjacent to the house and was house was heavily involved as the first crews arrived at the house, also fully involved. - Fire News photos by Paul LaRochelle and Ken LaBelle which was set off the road by several hundred feet. There was a
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Fire News, March 2015, Page 9
Residential Structure Fire in Terryville
On January 18, 2015, a well involved single family residential fire brought Terryville (CT) and Thomaston firefighters out on a icy night. When Terryville arrived on scene they found a wood frame dwelling with heavy fire going throughout. With the municipal water supply several miles away they requested a tanker from Thomaston to assist with the water supply operation. Multiple han-
dlines were stretched to surround the structure which was well involved even before the first alarm of fire was dispatched. The occupants made it out with the clothes on their backs and had to be evaluated for smoke inhalation by EMS. The family pets were not as lucky and were believed to have perished in the fire. - Fire News photo by Kevin Czarzasty
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Working Fire in Berlin
On January 30, 2015, Berlin firefighters were dispatched to a quickly gained the upper hand. Task Force 51 provided station covreported structure fire on Highview Terrace in the town of Berlin. erage and RIT to the Berlin firefighters. - Fire News photos by Jim Peruta, Firefighters were faced with an advanced fire in the garage that Patrick Dooley and John Dumin was spreading rapidly. Firefighters made an aggressive attachk and
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Fire News, March 2015, Page 11
Quick Work in Cranston
Fatality in Quincy Blaze
On January 6, 2015, the Cranston Fire Alarm Office received numerous phone calls for a house fire on Doric Avenue. On arrival, Engine 2 reported fire showing near the eaves of a Cape-style house. A line was stretched and it was found that the electric drop to the house had short circuited and ignited the wood shingles. Command immediately placed a request for National Grid Electric. Members of Ladder 1 and Special Hazards 1 checked for extension on the inside of the house, but none was found. - Fire News photo by Tom Carmody
Quincy (MA) firefighters responded to a three-alarm fire on January 4, 2015. One resident died a few days after the fire from smoke inhalation. - Fire News photo by Bill Noonan
Page 12, Fire News, March 2015
Glastonbury Garage Fire
On January 10, 2015, Glastonbury (CT) units responded to Chimney Sweep Hill Road for a car fire in a garage. On arrival members were met with heavy smoke and fire from the garage extending into the house. Many mutual aid departments assisted at the scene with tankers for a water shuttle. - Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
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Ashes Start Lincoln House Fire
Improperly discarded ashes from a previous fire destroyed a twostory, occupied, single-family dwelling on Old Louisquisset Pike in Lincoln’s (RI) Lime Rock section. First-due Engine 32 arrived to find heavy smoke showing from the dwelling. Deputy Chief 3 (Tucker) ordered a second alarm as he arrived and took over command. Crews found heavy fire in the finished basement on the A/B side of the dwelling. The fire was beginning to extend upwards through the open stairwell. Three handlines were used to bring the fire under control. The house sustained heavy smoke, water and fire damage. - Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
Major Fire Op in Kent
On January 13, 2015, Kent volunteers responded to a structure fire at Northeast Building Supply on Kent Road. The first units found heavy fire and smoke showing from the showroom of the lumber yard as well as lumber stock and several delivery trucks on fire in the rear. With no municipal water supply, a massive tanker shuttle was set up to supply the defensive attack since the building was so well involved. Crews worked the scene well into the next day in sub-freezing temperatures. The fire brought mutual aid ffrom Connecticut, New York and Massachusetts for ops and coverage. - Fire News photo by Kevin Czarzasty
Page 14, Fire News, March 2015
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Oven Fire in Whitman On December 15, 2014, the Whitman Fire Department received a call reporting a fire in an oven in a 1-1/2 story house on Edward Drive, off of Route 58. Engine 2, Ladder 1, and Car 3 responded. The crew from Engine 2 brought in an extinguisher, and command, under Deputy Joseph Feeney, requested a dry handline be stretched as a precaution. Engine 1 responded to the scene, staffed with mostly off-duty personnel that responded to the station on call back. The fire was contained to the oven in the house. - Fire News photo by Pat Travers
Heavy Fire in North Kingstown On December 30, 2014, North Kingstown firefighters responded to Potter Road for a house fire. On arrival, companies found heavy fire showing from the Bravo side of an occupied two-story house. A tower ladder was immediately requested from East Greenwich. As crews stretched in, they encountered high heat and zero visibility and had trouble gaining access to the seat of the fire. As conditions worsened, the IC ordered the withdrawal of all interior companies and asked for additional companies. A taskforce of two engines, a truck, rescue and a battalion chief responded from Warwick. After the bulk of the heavy fire was knocked down from the exterior, Command allowed crews back inside for overhaul and final extinguishment. - Fire News photo by Tom Carmody
Quick Work at Bridgeport Blaze On December 5, 2014, the Bridgeport Fire Department was dispatched to Old Town Road for a reported house fire. The first engine on scene reported heavy fire showing from the second floor C-side of a Cape-style home. Members made quick work of this fire and there were no reported injuries. - Fire News photo by Keith Muratori
Ayer House Fire On December 15, 2014, Ayer (MA) firefighters arrived on scene of a dwelling fire. Mutual aid came from Shirley and Devens. It took about 45 minutes to bring the blaze under control. - Fire News photo by SmokeShowingPhotography.com
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Exploding Ammo Complicates Canaan Fire On January 14, 2015, Canaan fire crews responded to a structure fire on Salisbury Road. On arrival an occupant had to be removed from the building and was transported to the hospital by North Canaan Ambulance. The small structure was well involved and the attack was slightly delayed due to ammunition going off from within the structure. Mutual aid responded from Lakeville, Norfolk and Falls Village. Sheffield (MA) covered Canaan. - Fire News photo by Ed Harvey
3-Alarmer in Worcester On January 7, 2015, with the temperature at two degrees, Worcester (MA) firefighters battled a vacant building fire on Arlington Street. This street has had many fires over the years including a blaze that claimed the life of Firefighter Jon Davies. Heavy fire was showing from the rear porches upon the arrival of Car 4 , Captain Perkins, who transmitted a second alarm and established a defensive posture. Multiple aerial devices and big lines were put in operation which quickly knocked down the heavy fire. District Chief Gardell took over command and requested the third alarm. The fire was suspicious as there were no utilities present. The building was posted with a slash, indicating it must be entered with caution due to the previous fire. Firefighters encrusted in ice were given hot beverages by our canteen truck Box 4. - Fire News photo by Paul LaRochelle
2 Rescued from New Haven Blaze
On December 8, 2014, the New Haven Fire Department was dispatched to Judson Avenue for a reported house fire. First-in companies found heavy fire from a 2-½ story wood frame with a person trapped on the roof of the first floor porch after having made it out her second floor window. Firefighters quickly removed her from the roof as another woman narrowly escaped out of the first floor. The fire escalated to a second alarm before being placed under control. - Fire News photo by Keith Muratori
Fatality in Pawtucket Blaze
Just four days before Christmas 2014, Pawtucket dispatchers began receiving calls reporting a house fire on Grove Street. Engine 2 reported seeing smoke as they were pulling out of their station. On arrival, heavy smoke was showing from a two-story occupied house. As crews went to work, a report was received that one person was missing and believed to be inside the structure. A primary search was begun and the person was found and removed. He was transported to Rhode Island Hospital in critical condition and later succumbed to his injuries. The fire was held to the first-floor apartment and was placed under control within 30 minutes. - Fire News photo by Tom Carmody
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Fire News, March 2015, Page 17
2-Alarmer at Avon Condo Complex
On January 7, 2015, a second alarm in Avon (CT) burned two units pered efforts to extinguish the fire. Many towns’ mutual aid units of a 1000-unit condo complex on Sweetbriar Lane in Farmington assisted Avon. - Fire News photos by Patrick Dooley and Sean Freiman Woods. A dead end street and extremely cold temperatures ham-
Page 18, Fire News, March 2015
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Plymouth Chimney Blaze in North Second Smithfield Alarm
- Fire News photo by Rob Reardon
Occupants of a North Smithfield (RI) home on Brookside Drive awoke to hear crackling in the walls behind their headboard on January 21, 2015. A fire from their fireplace chimney had extended to the Delta side walls and into the attic. North Smithfield Engine 2 was first to arrive and found fire coming from the roof around the chimney. A handline was quickly placed into operation knocking down the bulk of the fire. - Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
Smoke in Sandwich Sandwich Fire Department responded to Main Street after receiving a call for an odor of electrical burning in the building. Tower 1’s and Engine 1’s crews investigated the building but the odor dissipated before the arrival of the fire department. - Fire News photo courtesy of the Sandwich Fire Department
Worcester Smoker On December 16, 2014, Worcester firefighters responded to a fire in a paper recycling facility on Pullman Street. Upon arrival firefighters found a smoke condition in the large warehouse. Sutton Fire was requested to respond with their Mobile Ventilation Unit to help clear the smoke from the building. - Fire News photo by Paul Shea
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Fire News, March 2015, Page 19
5 Injured in Hartford Blaze
On January 7, 2015, numerous calls were received for a structure fire on Capitol Avenue. Hartford Engine 11 arrived to smoke showing and people hanging out the windows threatening to jump. Ladder 6 removed some via their tower ladder bucket. Five people were treated for smoke inhalation. - Fire News photos by Patrick Dooley and Sean Freiman
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Kitchen Fire in Foster Diner Foster (RI) firefighters worked in frigid temperatures to bring heavy fire conditions under control at Cherri’s State Line Diner on Danielson Pike on February 6, 2015. Command requested several mutual aid tankers to the scene due to the lack of hydrants. The fire was brought under control in about 30 minutes using three attack lines. The kitchen fire severely damaged the diner. - Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
1 Injury in Lebanon Fire On January 28, 2015, Lebanon (CT) Fire with Colombia and Willimantic was dispatched to Beaumont Highway for a report of a house fire. Crews rescued an occupant from the home and transported him to Windham Hospital. He was then flown to the Connecticut Burn Center at Bridgeport. The fire was under control in about 30 minutes. - Fire News photo by Robert Ladd
Wood Storage Bldg. Goes Hopkinton (MA) struck two alarms for a fully involved, singlestory, wood frame storage building on Fruit Street on February 4, 2015. The building was fully involved upon the arrival of the firstdue engine and already partially collapsed. The fire destroyed two lumber processing machines next to the building. Due to the extremely long driveway and no nearby hydrants, several towns were special called for tankers. - Fire News photo by Douglas Dow
Sandwich Respond to Chimney Fire Sandwich Fire Alarm received a call for a chimney fire on John Ewer Road in South Sandwich. Sandwich Tower 1 and Engine 3 extinguished the fire and checked for extension. - Fire News photo courtesy of the Sandwich Fire Department
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2-Alarm Commercial Building Fire
On December 16, 2014, a fire destroyed a landscaper’s building on the Acton/Maynard (MA) town line. Departments from both towns responded to find fire and smoke showing from the building. Most of the contents were completely destroyed. Mutual aid came from Maynard, Boxborough and Stow. It took firefighters about 45 minutes to bring the fire under control. - Fire News photo by SmokeShowingPhotography.com
Fire News, March 2015, Page 21
Fast Job in Smithfield
A bedroom fire on the first floor of a Vaughn Street 1-1/2 story, wood frame, occupied dwelling was quickly knocked down on December 2, 2014. Smithfield (RI) crews contained the fire to the room of origin, however heavy smoke damage was sustained to the entire dwelling. Two occupants were evaluated for smoke inhalation. - Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
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2 Escape Hartford Fire
Hartford firefighters responded to a two-alarm blaze on Albany Avenue on December 29, 2014. Two civilians had to jump to safety from the fire, which was knocked down by Ladder 3’s bucket. - Fire News photos by Patrick Dooley, Jim Peruta and Sean Freiman
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Fire News, March 2015, Page 23
Grafton Garage Fire Extends to Home
Grafton (MA) firefighters responded to a two-alarm fire on Janet Circle. All occupants were able to evacuate without injury. January 23, 2015, for a fully involved attached garage that extended to the attic of a single-story wood frame occupied dwelling on - Fire News photo by Douglas Dow
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Crystal Lake Saves Ellington Home
Fire in Columbia
On January 17, 2015, the Crystal Lake Fire Department arrived to fire showing from a two-car garage attached to a house in the Crystal Lake section of Ellington (CT). A second alarm was struck for tankers to respond to the rural area. Members were able to keep the fire out of the main house. - Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
Columbia (CT) units responded to a structure fire on Route 6 and Whitney Road on December 30, 2014. - Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
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Fire News, March 2015, Page 25
Cover Story
House Fire in Norwich
On January 2, 2015, Norwich (CT) Fire was dispatched to School of a 2-1/2 story dwelling. After the main body of fire was knocked Street for a reported house fire. A civilian removed one occupant out down, crews worked the building to open the void spaces to find the - Fire News photos by Robert Ladd and Joe Shefer of a rear window. Battalion 1 arrived and reported fire on two floors hidden fire.
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Worcester Truck Fire On January 15, 2015, Worcester (MA) firefighters battled subfreezing temperatures and a lack of available hydrants on a fully involved tractor trailer. Engine 15’s crew was able to knock down the heavy fire with the tank water from two engines. District Chief Howe requested a third engine to establish a water supply from the closest hydrant. Ladder 5 was also on the assignment and overhauled the remains of the truck. - Fire News photo by Paul LaRochelle
MVA in Avon On January 10, 2015, the Avon Fire Department was dispatched to a fully involved vehicle fire on Lovely Street. Due to the proximity of the accident to the town line, Canton Fire and EMS were also dispatched to assist. - Fire News photo by Stephen Hess
Feeding a Fire in Manchester On December 2, 2014, Manchester firefighters responded to West Center Street for an auto fire. The fire extended to another car and the rear of the house. The fire proved difficult to extinguish due to the gasoline tank letting go and feeding the fire. - Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
Yantic Handles Truck Fire Recently, members of the Yantic Fire District in Norwich battled a truck fire with exposure problems at one of the local gas/convenience stores. Minimal damage was done to the vinyl siding, and the fire was held to the truck. - Fire News photo by Joe Shefer
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Fire News, March 2015, Page 27
Boat Fire in Norwich
Clearing Hydrants
On December 31, 2014, Norwich (CT) Fire was dispatched to the American Wharf Marina for a boat fire. First-due units found a 30-foot pleasure boat with heavy fire showing. Crews stretched two lines about 500 feet and worked the scene for about 90 minutes. The boat eventually capsized and the US Coast Guard and CTDEEP were called for the clean up. - Fire News photo by Robert Ladd
Taftville (CT) Safety Officer Charlie Miclette and Squad 2 do some hydrant checks after the January blizzard. - Fire News photo by Joe Shefer
Page 28, Fire News, March 2015
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1 Injured in Whitman Rollover On January 14, 2015, the Whitman Fire Department responded to Auburn Street (Route-14), near Carousel Family Fun Center for a reported MVA. Ambulance-248, Engine-2, Rescue-1, and Car-3 responded. Companies arrived to find a single-vehicle accident, with a car into the woods and on its roof. Lieutenant Robert Hover reported one person trapped. Box-55 was struck, bringing in offduty personnel to the station. Chief Timothy Grenno responded in Car-1 and Engine-1 responded to the scene for manpower with off-
duty personnel. Once extricated, several firefighters assisted the victim, who was on a long board, to the stretcher and into the awaiting Ambulance-248. The victim was transported to the South Shore Hospital with an additional paramedic on-board. - Fire News photo by Pat Travers
Taftville Responds to MVA The Taftville District of Norwich responded to an MVA in front of a local business. One person was transported with minor injuries. - Fire News photo by Joe Shefer
Multi-Car MVA in Carver Carver (MA) firefighters used hydraulic tools to extricate a person from a multi-car MVA. Three people were transported and one was flown by Boston Medflight to a level 1 trauma center in Boston. - Fire News photo by Rob Reardon
Arlington MVA Arlington (MA) firefighters operating hydraulic tools to extricate the operator of a motor vehicle involved in a crash on Summer Street in Arlington, on December 5, 2014. - Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan
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Fire News, March 2015, Page 29
Car vs. House in Manchester
Ped. Hit in Worcester
On January 24, 2015, on Curry Lane in Manchester (CT), a car drove through the garage and into the house. First-due Engine 1 Lt. Webb upgraded the assignment when Engine 1 arrived for assistance with extrication of the driver, who was transported with minor injuries. - Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
One victim was transported with non life threatening injuries on January 11, 2015, after a pedestrian accident on Crystal Street in Worcester. - Fire News photo by Paul Shea
Page 30, Fire News, March 2015
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Car vs. House in Waterbury On January 11, 2015, Waterbury Fire was dispatched for a car into a house with possible entrapment on Bradley Avenue. Upon arrival firefighters found a small passenger car crashed and intruding into the corner of the structure, with the driver nowhere to be found. Crews from Engine 11, Truck 3, and Rescue 1 responded with the collapse unit. The city building official was called to inspect the home and the Waterbury Police were on scene to do the accident investigation. There were no injuries. - Fire News photo by Kevin Czarzasty
MVA in Wethersfield On December 23, 2014, Wethersfield (CT) firefighters were dispatched to an MVA at the intersection of Silas Deane Highway and Church Street requiring extrication. Rescue 23 used its winch to pull one car off the door of the other where a person was trapped. Firefighters then used hydraulic tools to gain access to the occupant. Only minor injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by Jim Peruta
Fatality in Westminster MVA
On January 20, 2015, Westminster and Fitchburg units responded to an MVA on the ramp of Route 2 westbound at Depot Road. Arriving units discovered a small car run over by a tractor-trailer. A female occupant of the car was declared dead at the scene. It appeared the woman had taken the wrong entrance ramp to get back on the highway and her car and the truck struck head-on. The accident was under investigation by the Massachusetts State Police. - Fire News photo by SmokeShowingPhotography.com
Firearm Mishap Requires Life Star On December 13, 2014, Life Star was called to the scene of a shooting accident behind a residence on Wiese Albert Road in Haddam (CT). Haddam Volunteer Fire Company and Haddam Ambulance Service responded to reports of a wounded hunter with a leg injury incurred when the man accidentally shot himself in the leg with his rifle. Command requested the Fire Company’s Gator ATV to remove the victim from the woods and activated Life Star. Engine 1-13 set up an LZ in a field near Candlewood Hill and Foot Hills Road. The man was flown to Hartford Hospital. - Fire News photo by Olivia Drake
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Ice Rescue Training in Whitman
On January 21, 2015, the Whitman Fire Department responded to a training scenario for a reported person through the ice at Hobart’s Pond off of Essex Street. Rescue-1, Ambulance-247 and Car-3 responded. Crews donned survival suits and inflated their RDU inflatable. Safety lines were tied to the two firefighters and they made their way on to the ice and then were retrieved. This was the third of four groups from Whitman Fire to review and simulate an ice water rescue this year. All groups will be going through the evolution, at an unknown time during their shift. The drills are conducted by Lieutenant Al Cunningham, the Fire Training Officer. - Fire News photo by Pat Travers
Fire News, March 2015, Page 31
Ashland Conducts Ice Rescue Training
Ashland (MA) Fire Group 3 conducted ice rescue training with their Rescue Alive Platform on January 18, 2015. (Above): Ashland FF Kyle Marcinkiewicz “rescues” Lt. Lyn Moraghan. - Fire News photo by Douglas Dow
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End of an Era Worcester Jake Retires
On November 29, 2014, after dedicating 38 years to the Worcester Fire Department, Firefighter Paul Bastardo hung up his helmet and gear. It began when Paul was a teen, belonging to the Worcester Fire Explorers post 201 from December 1970 to June 1973. He then enlisted in the U.S. Air Force from June 1973 to November 1976. While in the service, and missing out on all that was going on, his mother had assembled a scrapbook of all the fires in the Worcester area along with some of the largest fires in Massachusetts. Paul became a member of the Worcester Fire Civil Defense from June 1974 to April 1977. He took the exam to become one of Worcester’s bravest and was appointed to the department in April 1977. Paul was initially assigned to Engine 3, then promoted to Rescue Company 1 where he spent 20 years. Paul finished up his career as the aide to Car 3 with Chief Sam Richesson. One of Paul’s biggest accomplishments was designing the newest chief car. He helped with the vehicle design, as well as the lights and radio systems and took great pride in this. When you speak with Paul, he takes you back to the 70s and 80s when running on the Rescue was at its best. It meant running to multiple alarm fires — on many occasions, one after another. His memory of these nights is impeccable and detailed. He recalls who was who, and who was the best of the best. His stories of some of the greatest guys who are now gone, leave you always wanting to hear more. Paul also taught for the Massachusetts Fire Academy, going out to numerous firehouses on his time off, teaching the latest firefighting techniques. On the night of his retirement, many brother firefighters came out to wish Paul the very best in his future endeavors. Many handshakes and hugs went to a man who loved his job over anything — with the exception of his two children, Tim and Nicole. Good luck Paul, make sure you stop in for a coffee. - Fire News photo by SmokeShowingPhotography.com
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Fire News, March 2015, Page 33
Shaving ‘Staches for Cancer Charity
Members of the Pawtucket, North Providence and Lincoln Fire Departments raised $1761 for the November Cancer Awareness program. Moustaches were grown to support awareness over a month’s time. A shave off was held at Quinn’s Irish Pub in Pawtucket (RI). - Fire News photos by Ken LaBelle
Baltic Does It with all the Fixin’s On December 17, 2014, members of Baltic (CT) Fire Engine Company # 1 prepared a full turkey holiday dinner and offered it free to all of the senior citizens in the Town of Sprague (Baltic). Nearly 40 meals were served at the fire house and members then brought frozen turkeys and turkey platters to each of the senior citizens who were not able to attend. Baltic has been offering this meal for four years and this year also gave away gift cards and desserts from Mrs. Turban’s Sayles School preschool class. - Fire News photo by Reg Patchell
Jon Davies Memorial Dedication
Memorial dedication was held for Worcester Firefighter Jon Davies of Rescue 1, who lost his life in a collapse on December 8, 2011. (Right): Worcester FF Brian Carroll saluting the memorial. He was Jon’s partner, and was trapped with Jon in the collapse that morning. - Fire News photos by Douglas Dow and Paul Shea
Page 34, Fire News, March 2015
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Christmas in Yantic Yantic Fire Department members marched in the annual Christmas parade. - Fire News photo by Joe Shefer
Ashland Swears In New Officers Newly appointed Ashland Fire Chief Scott Boothby and Fire Lieutenant Matt Boland after being sworn in on January 8, 2015. - Fire News photo by Douglas Dow
New Officers in Worcester A ceremony was held in December 2014 for six members of the Worcester Fire Department who were promoted — two to District Chief, one to Captain, and three to Lieutenant. - Fire News photo by Paul Shea
Worcester Cold Storage Anniversary
On December 3, 2014, a ceremony was held to pay tribute to the 15 year anniversary of the Cold Storage Warehouse fire that claimed the lives of six Worcester firefighters: Lt. Thomas Spencer, and Firefighters Paul Brotherton, Tmothy Jackson, Jeremiah Lucey, James Lyons and Joseph McGuirk. - Fire News photo by Paul Shea
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CT Fire Photogs New Officers
Members of the Connecticut Fire Photographers Association recently attended their annual Christmas party. The new officers for 2015 were elected as well — Glenn Duda, President, Mike Quinn, Vice President, Cheryl Regan, Secretary and Treasurer, Pat Dooley, Executive Board, Kevin Czarzasty, Executive Board, and Steve Hess, Executive Board. - Fire News photo by Olivia Drake
Fire News, March 2015, Page 35
Fire & Iron MC Holiday Donations
Station #144 of the Fire and Iron Motorcycle Club based out of the South Shore area of Massachusetts has been able to make several charitable donations over this holiday season to families in need. The motorcycle club, made up of area firefighters, fire department employees, retired members and friends, has made it a point to make donations to worthy local causes since their inception. Before this year’s Thanksgiving, members of the club (Station #144) presented six complete turkey dinners to the Saint Vincent DePaul Society in Brockton, a service they have provided for several years. Just before Christmas, they were able to provide nearly 100 toys to the Signature Healthcare Brockton Hospital Pediatric Unit. The Pediatric Unit at Signature also receives an annual donation from funds raised through a motorcycle run held in May every year. - Fire News photo by Pat Travers
Page 36, Fire News, March 2015
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Firehouse Kitchen By Ray Cooney While going through my e-mails, one in particular jumped out at me. It was from Firefighter Scott Belguard from the Hightstown Fire Department in New Jersey. The e-mail spoke of Scott being a chef and how Hightstown Fire Department would love to host Firehouse Kitchen. As soon as I read it, I gave Scott a call. Scott was surprised at my immediate reply because he had just sent the email two hours prior. I told him that I try to answer all my e-mails, but it wasn’t everyday I received one from a bonafide fireman chef (Scott went to the famed Johnson and Wales Culinary School). We scheduled our shoot for January 24, 2015, but had to reschedule because it was the first of two snowstorms that would hit the Tristate Area. When I finally did get there, I was greeted with a huge marquee sign that read “Welcome Ray Cooney and Firehouse Kitchen,” as well as a group of Hightstown firefighters. We filmed two shows that day. The first was with Firefighters Bill Havens and Carl Dye, two salty firemen with over 40 years on the department. They made a delicious pork loin that I called “Pork, on pork, on pork,” because it was pork loin stuffed with pork sausage and then wrapped in bacon. It was to-die-for.
During this episode, I interviewed their chief, Scott Jenkens. He informed us on the background of Hightstown Fire Department, as well as telling us about their operations and procedures. A little side note: Hightstown has on of the largest aerial ladders on the East Coast with a height of 135 feet. In the second episode, we filmed with Chef Scott, the main reason I came to Hightstown. He made these unbelievable “Beef Shank Tacos with Homemade Guacamole.” The homemade guacamole, or what I should call guacamole salad, really brought out the flavor. (To get Chef Scott’s recipe, visit our website at firehousekitchenshow.com. It was too extensive to include with this article). Being a small town in New Jersey, the Hightstown Fire Department had that “real” fire department feel. From a chief with a passion for the department, as well as the men who serve under him, to the “chefs” that like to cook for them. I have a feeling you will see Hightstown and Chef Scott again on Firehouse Kitchen. To find out more about Firehouse Kitchen or how to become a sponsor, visit us at firehousekitchenshow.com. Be sure to like us on our Facebook page at Firehouse Kitchen.
STUFFED PORK LOIN WITH SAUSAGE & PISTACHIOS
1 Center cut boneless pork loin 2 lbs. fresh ground Italian sweet sausage out of casing. 1 cup unsalted toasted pistachios. 1 Tbsp. Orange zest. 3 Tbsp. chopped (preferably) fresh sage, rosemary, and thyme. ½ cup chopped parsley. ½ pound sliced bacon. Butchers twine.
Butterfly and pound the pork loin thin and then lightly season with salt and pepper. Set fat side down. In a bowl mix the sausage, pistachios, orange zest and 2/3 of the chopped herbs. Spread the stuffing evenly over the pounded pork loin. Firmly roll into a long log. Truss tie the roast and sprinkle remaining mixed herbs. Wrap the stuffed pork loin with bacon and roast at 375 until 165 degrees internal temperature.
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Fire News, March 2015, Page 37
DEBORAH THOMSON PROMOTED TO PRESIDENT OF P.L. CUSTOM Jean S. Smock, CEO and Owner of P.L. Custom Body and Equipment Co., Inc. is pleased to announce the promotion of Deborah Smock Thomson to President of the corporation, effective January 1, 2015. Thomson joined the company in 1978 and learned the business by moving up through the ranks under the guidance of her father and industry icon, the late Martin V. “Bud” Smock. Thomson’s promotion to President reinforces the longrange commitment the Smock family has to the ownership and future leadership of the company. As President, Thomson’s energy and passion for the customer and the PL product will move the company forward and ensure that it remains committed to Bud Smock’s vision. Thomson has unrivaled experience and product knowledge within the PL Custom company and in the
emergency vehicle industry. Jean S. Smock will continue her active roll in the company as CEO. P.L. Custom Body and Equipment Co., Inc. has been in business since 1946, and owned by the Smock family since 1970. The company employs 200 people at their Manasquan, NJ plant and sells through a network of 14 independent dealers covering 27 states and the District of Columbia. PL Custom Emergency Vehicle and Rescue 1 are the manufacturing divisions of the corporation and are proud to maintain a strong reputation as a customer focused designer and manufacturer of high quality custom ambulances and rescue vehicles. P. L. Custom Body and Equipment Co., Inc., 2201 Atlantic Avenue, Manasquan, NJ 08736; 732-223-1411 or fax: 732-223-8456.
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Page 38, Fire News, March 2015
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Up Close & Personal
Bolton (CT) firefighters after a structure fire on Route 6 and Whitney Road on December 30, 2014. - Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley Firefighters at a January 8, 2015 fire in Providence. - Fire News photo by Tom Carmody
Farmington firefighters battle the flames in brutally cold temperatures and wind chills at an Avon fire on January 7, 2015. - Fire News photo by Sean Freiman
Worcester Engine 5 and Ladder 4 Group 4. - Fire News photo by Paul Shea Husband and wife firefighting team, Norfolk (CT) Fire Department’s Chelsea Bottum and Captain Gary Bottum. - Fire News photo by Ed Harvey
Fire Lieutenant David Pierce of the Cambridge Fire Department Fire Investigation Unit at a two-alarm fire on Magazine Street in Cambridge on December 2, 2014. - Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan
Fitchburg (MA) firefighters responding to a house fire on River Street on January 6, 2015. - Fire News photo by Paul LaRochelle
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Fire News, March 2015, Page 39
Up Close & Personal
Hauling hose at a fire on Old Louisquisset Pike in Lincoln’s (RI) Lime Rock section. - Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle Brockton firefighters at December 10, 2014, fire on Legion Parkway. - Fire News photo by Pat Travers
Vernon (CT) firefighters after a second alarm on January 23, 2015, on Daryl Drive. - Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley
Firefighters after a structure fire on Highview Terrace in Berlin on January 30, 2015. - Fire News photo by Jim Peruta Smithfield (RI) Station 2. - Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle
(Left to right): Ashland FF Mark Byron, FF Morgan Hunter, FF Kyle Marcinkiewicz and Capt Keith Robie (also recently promoted and at his first fire). - Fire News photo by Douglas Dow
Duxbury Shift 4 after a fire during a frigid cold spell. - Fire News photo by Rob Reardon