Fire News Southern New England, July/August edition

SOUTHERN NEW ENGLAND Serving VOLUME 8, NO. 4

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JULY/AUGUST 2020

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In this issue...

Total Loss in Reading On April 17, 2020, Reading (MA) Fire responded to reports of a building fire at the Meadowbrook Golf Club.

See story on page 6

Busy Day in Brookfield As Brookfield (CT) firefighters were working a brush fire, a call came in for a building fire on Webber Road.

See story on page 9

Wind Driven Fire in Fitchburg On April 15, 2020, Fitchburg (MA) crews battled a two-alarm blaze on Newtonville Avenue.

See story on page 11

Glocester House Fire Glocester (RI) firefighters arrived to find heavy fire showing from an occupied raised ranch on Spruce Ridge Drive.

See story on page 16

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

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Hartford Action Fire News coverage of recent fires in Hartford (CT).

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Long Extrication on the Mass Pike Recently, crews responded to a rollover MVA on the off ramp from I-290/I-395 to the Mass Pike.

See story on page 25

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Page 4, Fire News, July/August 2020

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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor

Don’t Let Your Guard Down As the battle against Covid-19 continues, I remind everyone that even though socialization restrictions have lightened up, this horrible disease is still threatening our existence. I am disheartened when I see people walking together in public places without masks and walking shoulder to shoulder and not giving thought that the disease is still around us. When firehouse procedures lighten up and you come down to the firehouse, keep in mind that masks, hand sanitizer and keeping your distance from your brothers and sisters is a good idea.

Listening to the news, I hear that research is being done to come up with a vaccine that will protect us from Covid-19. Researchers feel that we could see an estimated date of 2021 for a vaccine. Truthfully, I am not confident that this will happen. Yes, times have changed, and our research technology is far superior than it was in the past. Let me share some of my thoughts with you.

Polio can be traced back to 1580 BC. It was not until 1916 that serious concerns about the disease heightened and scientists started to work diligently to find a vaccine. In 1955, a vaccine to fight polio was developed. In 1961, an oral vaccine was developed and given to our population. I received my sugar cube with the vaccine in elementary school. Looking at the timeline, a lot of years passed before we had a

vaccine for polio.

Look at the Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS). This virus was discovered in 1983 and almost 40-years later, there is no cure for the disease. Yes, we can treat the disease and control the symptoms, but there is no cure. What makes you believe that we will have a cure for Covid-19 in less than a year?

I believe that everyone should rethink their lifestyles and get used to wearing masks in public and utilizing hand sanitizer on an immediate and regular basis. When you get together with friends, remember the six-foot rule. Diseases can lurk in very visible places. Ask the people who have survived the horror of Covid. They will tell you it was one of the worst experiences they have ever gone through. Many will say, “I didn’t think I was going to make it.” It is easy to forget a bad situation. We forget that close call we had at a past fire, we forget that we caught the flu from using our SCBA facepieces that were never disinfected after use. Our experienced firefighters will tell you of times when you exited a fire and handed off your SCBA to another firefighter so someone else could take over the line as the fight continued. It took us until the 1990s to realize facepieces needed to be sanitized after each use and every firefighter needed to have their own personal facepiece.

Diseases can spread easily. Do not let your guard down.

In closing, I remind everyone to watch out for each other. Don’t be afraid to remind someone to wash their hands, keep their distance from one another and continue to follow the guidelines that are in place to prevent the spread of Covid -19.

Be Safe, Dennis

Page 6, Fire News, July/August 2020

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Brockton 3-Alarmer

Brockton (MA) FAO transmitted Box 2121 for Engines 2 and 4, Ladder 2 and Squad A responding for a cellar fire. Engine 2 arrived to fire showing from the cellar window of a 2-1/2 story wood frame dwelling. Deputy Chief Nardelli took command with Engine 5 as RIT and Ladder 4 responding. The fire was in the walls and extended quickly to the attic and through the roof. A second alarm was struck with Engine 7 dispatched.

Soon after a third alarm was sent with Engine 3, and a West Bridgewater engine and ladder. Two ladder pipes, a deck gun and several handlines operated as all members were withdrawn. The fire was knocked down in about 30 minutes. Avon, Stoughton, Easton and Whitman covered the city stations.

- Fire News photo by Bob Myers

Bridgeport 2 Alarm Displaces Several Families

On April 10, 2020, Bridgeport (CT) firefighters were preparing for shift change when West End companies received a box alarm for a dwelling fire in area of Park and Railroad Avenues. Responding companies could see it as they turned out of quarters. Arriving crews reported a three-story, occupied, private dwelling with fire on all floors of the number 1 side. Battalion 1 transmitted a second alarm due to the time of day and occupancy as well as the wind conditions. The fire quickly spread and took hold of the dwelling as firefighters fought an interior attack to darken it down. Several families were left homeless from the fire.

- Fire News photos by Glenn Duda, CFPA and PuckStopperPhotography.com

Total Loss in Reading On April 17, 2020, Reading (MA) Fire responded to reports of a building fire at the Meadowbrook Golf Club on Grove Street.

Three alarms were rapidly struck and several pumpers and trucks responded. The building was a complete loss.

- Fire News photo by Glenn Preston

Page 8, Fire News, July/August 2020

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Long Fight, Long Lay in Stockbridge On April 17, 2020, Stockbridge (MA) Fire was dispatched for an alarm on Cherry Hill Road. Units arrived to smoke showing and, shortly thereafter, a request for mutual aid brought crews from Lee, Lenox, Great Barrington, Egremont, Monterey, Tyringham, Richmond, and Canaan (NY).

An interior attack was mounted on the 3900-square-foot residence. The fire’s intensity grew and tactics transitioned to an exterior attack. Grounds monitors and two ladders pipes were put into operation. This all had to be fed by two very long LDH lays that were fed by at least two tanker shuttles. Crews battled the fire for hours. The fire was under investigation and no injuries were reported.

- Fire News photo by Edward Harvey

1 Injured at Holyoke 2-Alarmer Holyoke (MA) firefighters were called to Oak Street on May 25, 2020, just before 2000, for a structure fire. Units arrived to fire and smoke showing. A second alarm was sounded. Crews battled this large fire for almost 90 minutes before bringing it under control. One resident was taken to the hospital.

- Fire News photo by John Deforest

Suspicious Two Alarm Blaze in Weymouth Around 2030 on March 26, 2020, the Weymouth (MA) Fire Department responded to Shea Memorial Drive near Houghton Road in the Union Point development for a house fire. Companies arrived to heavy fire in five large, connected, rectangular-shaped buildings. When the South Weymouth Naval Air Station was in operation, the building served as the Bachelor Officers Quarters and was reportedly set for demolition. The building was well involved on arrival and fire rapidly consumed the building, which was a total loss. On arrival, crews immediately went to big lines and ladder pipes. Crews worked to secure water supplies to feed the large lines. A special call for an additional ladder was requested about 15-minutes later, bringing the Hingham Quint-1 from coverage to the scene. Approximately 15-minutes after that, a second alarm was requested, bringing additional companies to work and cover. Firefighters remained on-scene throughout the night and the following morning overhauling and extinguishing hot spots. The fire was considered suspicious and was under investigation by the Massachusetts State Fire Marshal’s Office.

- Fire News photo by Pat Travers

Leominster House Fire April 19, 2020, Leominster (MA) firefighters arrived to heavy fire showing from the rear of a private dwelling. Engine 3 crew Lieutenant Michael Marino and Firefighter Dustin Randall stretched a 2-1/2 inch line to the rear and quickly knocked down the fire.

- Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade

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Fire News, July/August 2020, Page 9

Busy Day for Brookfield

On May 25, 2020, shortly after 1500, as Brookfield (CT) firefighters were working a brush fire, a call came in for a building fire on Webber Road in the area of Harwood Cross Road. First arriving companies had heavy fire showing from a two-story wood frame house. The fire had advanced rapidly and the house was well involved. There were no hydrants in the area so tankers from numerous towns were called. A fill site was set up at nearby

Tantasqua High School. The fire reached four alarms before it was brought under control. A rehab truck from the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services assisted with hydration and recuperation of firefighters. The fire was under investigation by the Fire District 7 Fire Investigation Unit as well as troopers assigned to the State Fire Marshall’s Office.

- Fire News photos by Paul Shea and Paul Larochelle

Page 10, Fire News, July/August 2020

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Heavy Fire on Arrival in Bethany At approximately 0120 on March 28, 2020, the Bethany (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to Carrington Road for a structure fire. First units found heavy fire in a single-story residence with exposure problems. One resident required medical attention for smoke inhalation and was transported. Mutual aid came from Beacon Falls, Prospect, Seymour and Woodbridge.

- Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com

Several FFs Hurt at So. Boston 7-Alarm

Boston (MA) Fire Alarm began receiving calls for a building fire, at were put to work for fire duty. Several Boston firefighters were about 0330 on May 30, 2020, on Columbia Road in South Boston. transported for injuries, of which were mostly burns.

First-due companies arrived to heavy smoke and fire showing from - Fire News photos by several three-frame OMD (attached) buildings. Seven alarms were Glenn S. Preston, John Sjostedt and Bob Myers struck with multiple extra calls for companies, as RIT companies

You Bet It’s Scrap!

About 1230 on May 23, 2020, Charlton (CT) firefighters extinguished a car fire. The car was on a trailer and being prepped for scrap.

- Fire News photo by Bud Harris

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Fire News, July/August 2020, Page 11

Wind Driven Fire in Fitchburg On April 15, 2020, Fitchburg (MA) crews battled a two-alarm blaze on Newtonville Avenue. The fire started outside and due to the high winds, extended into the attic. Crews from Leominster and Westminster also responded.

- Fire News photo by David Bryce

Fast Moving Fire in North Attleboro A fast moving three-alarm fire destroyed a sober house in North Attleboro (MA) on June 3, 2020. The large 2-1/2 story, wood framed, Victorian-style home was located on North Washington Street. The fire occurred just after 0330 as the residents were asleep. At least nine men lived in the house, operated by the Association for Sober Living, which helps men recovering from alcohol and substance abuse. The first-due companies had heavy overlapping fire from the first floor and wrap-around porch. The fire was impinging on the exposure on the Bravo side as well. Companies were held to a defensive attack on the original fire building as an interior attack commenced on the Bravo exposure. The fire eventually burned through the entire roof before the fire was brought under control. No injuries were reported.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

Page 12, Fire News, July/August 2020

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Defensive Attack in New Britain In the early morning hours of March 29, 2020, the New Britain (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to Vine Street for smoke coming from a dwelling. Engine 2 arrived to a large, 2-1/2 story, wood framed dwelling with fire showing. Due to advanced fire conditions, members engaged in a defensive attack. Engines 2, 4, 8 and 1, along with Ladders 1 and 2 under the command of Deputy Chief Paul Walsh operated. Mutual aid came from Hartford, Meriden, Middletown and West Hartford to cover.

- Fire News photo by Christopher Sargis

Good Stop in South Windsor South Windsor (CT) had a fire in the debris pile spreading to a barn on arrival at a Main Street address on May 9, 2020. With extremely windy condition pushing the fire towards a house under remodeling, members were able to keep the fire from extending to the house.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

Large Brush Pile Fire in Hanover Around 1700 hours on May 14, 2020 the Hanover (MA) Fire Department responded to the area of Winter Street and Ames Way for a reported fire.

Companies arrived to find a 150- x 30- x 15-foot pile of brush and compost on fire at the rear of an Ames Way address. A box was struck, bringing in offduty firefighters to assist. Companies utilized large lines, deck guns and a ladder pipe to knock down the fire and keep it contained to the pile of brush and compost. Hanover companies C-1, C-2, E-7, E-4, E-3, T-1, S-1 and A-3 responded. A Norwell engine was brought in to cover. Crews worked around two hours bringing the fire under control.

- Fire News photo by Pat Travers

Springfield Home Destroyed Springfield (MA) firefighters were called to Terrance Street for a structure fire.

Heavy smoke could be seen while crews were responding. Chief 2 arrived to find a 2-1/2 story wood framed home fully involved. High winds were pushing flames toward the B and D side exposures. Crews used multiple handlines, a deck gun and a ladder pipe to knock down the fire. The main fire building was destroyed and exposures took heat damage.

- Fire News photo by John DeForest

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Fire News, July/August 2020, Page 13

Medford 3-Alarmer Firefighters battled a three-alarm fire on Canal Street in Medford (MA) on May 11, 2020.

- Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan

7 Displaced in Fall River On May 1, 2020, Fall River (MA) firefighters responded to Brayton Avenue for a still alarm. Engine 4 arrived to smoke showing from the eaves. Two attack lines were stretched to the second floor to find the seat of the fire. Ladder 2 put the aerial ladder into operation to access the roof, while ground ladders were used to reach the second-floor windows. All visible fire was knocked down quickly but the fire required extensive overhaul as flames made their way into the attic space and ceilings. Seven people were displaced. Engines 2, 4 and 5, Ladder 2 and 4, Rescue 1 and Car 3 responded.

- Fire News photo by Ken Leger

Page 14, Fire News, July/August 2020

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Car Fire in Carver On May 5, 2020, crews responded to a vehicle fire on Route 44 at Route 58 in Carver (MA).

- Fire News photo by John Sjostedt

1 Burned at Goshen House Fire On April 11, 2020, crews responded to a house fire on North Street in Goshen (CT). All occupants were accounted for early on, and mutual aid came from several Litchfield County departments. At least one person was transported with burns.

- Fire News photo by Ed Harvey

Transfer Station Fire in Berlin

Berlin firefighters responded to a trash transfer station fire on the aid of the area task force departments.

Christian Lane in Berlin on May 14, 2020. The fire was fought with - Fire News photos by Jim Peruta and Nick Peruta

Freetown Commercial Fire Freetown (MA) Police were dispatched for a report of fireworks on Braley Road called in by a passerby. Police arrived to find a 100- x 100foot, metal-clad building well involved with fire through the roof.

Freetown Stations 3 and 2 were dispatched. Car 2 arrived and notified Dispatch to activate Station 1. Lakeville Engine 2 was sent to the fire with Dartmouth District 3 to cover. Car 1 arrived shortly after and struck a second alarm. Dartmouth, Berkley and Rochester responded.

The building was located about 300 feet off the road. The fire was knocked down in about two hours.

- Fire News photo by Bob Myers

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Fire News, July/August 2020, Page 15

Northbridge 2-Alarmer On April 15, 2020, the Northbridge (MA) Fire Department was alerted to a possible fire at the Village Laundromat on North Main Street. Companies arrived to find a dryer fire that extended to the structure. The single-story wood framed business sustained heavy smoke and fire damage as a result of the two-alarm fire.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

Good Stop in Andover Andover (MA) crews responded for a two-alarm fire on Temple Place in Andover, recently. Companies arrived to heavy smoke and fire showing. An aggressive interior attack was made under extreme conditions. Companies did an excellent job stopping the fire.

- Fire News photo by Glenn Preston

Page 16, Fire News, July/August 2020

Tweed New Haven Airport Brush Fire

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Windsor Locks Car Fire Extends The Windsor Locks (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to Old County Road for a reported car fire. Shortly after the initial dispatch, they received information that a dwelling was also involved.

The residents, who were home at the time, were alerted by neighbors and escaped safely. No injuries were reported.

- Fire News photo

by Coral Ruggiero

On May 3, 2020, New Haven (CT) companies were called to the Tweed New Haven Airport for a large wind-driven brush fire on the airport property. Companies were hampered by the inaccessibility of the fire, so a tower ladder and aerial ladder were used for stream reach. A Tweed Airport crash truck was also used.

- Fire News photo by Glenn Duda, CFPA

Worcester 2-Alarmer Recently, crews battled a two-alarm fire at a v a c a n t s t r u c t u re i n Worcester (MA). The house was under renovations at the time of the fire. Companies had the h e a v y f i re k n o c k e d down quickly.

- Fire News photo

by Paul Shea

Boat Fire in Plymouth

Recently, crews battled a lobster boat fire off of Cordage Park, in Plymouth (MA). Luckily no injuries were reported.

- Fire News photo by John Sjostedt

Chicopee House Blaze On April 1, 2020, Chicopee (MA) firefighters were called to Skeele Street in the city’s Willimansett section for a structure fire just before 0600.

Crews arrived to a find a large 2-1/2 story wood framed home with heavy smoke showing.

Fire started to spread quickly throughout the large home and a second alarm was sounded.

Mutual aid and coverage came from Springfield, Holyoke and Westover AFB. - Fire News photo

by John DeForest

Glocester House Fire

Glocester (RI) firefighters arrived to find heavy fire showing from side-A of an occupied raised ranch on Spruce Ridge Drive on May 9, 2020. A second-alarm tanker task force was requested as the house was not in a hydrant-protected area of town. Companies aggressively attacked the fire with several handlines.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

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Fire News, July/August 2020, Page 17

Greenwich Rooftop Solar Panel Fire Around 1300 on April 14, 2020, Greenwich (CT) firefighters were dispatched to Livingston Place for the report of a dwelling fire.

While responding, crews were told the fire was in solar panels on the roof.

On arrival crews found smoke showing from the C/D corner of the roof.

Lines were stretched and crews set up Truck 1. The fire was quickly knocked down and put under control.

- Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com

Quick Stop in Barre On the afternoon of April 16, 2020, Barre (MA) Fire responded to a building fire at the Quabbin Plaza on Summer Street.

Mutual aid was brought in from Rutland, North Brookfield, Westminster and Hardwick. The fire was quickly knocked down.

- Fire News photo by Bud Harris

Page 18, Fire News, July/August 2020

Hartford Action

Hartford (CT) firefighters responded to a two-alarm fire in the city’s South End on May 31, 2020. First arriving units found heavy fire in the rear of the building and a second alarm was quickly sounded. The fire was brought under control in short order.

- Fire News photo by Jim Peruta

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On May 14, 2020, Hartford (CT) companies were dispatched to Hamner Street for a structure fire. District 1 arrived called a working fire in a single-story commercial structure. Engine 10 made an aggressive attack with a 2-1/2 and 1-3/4 line, preventing extension to the attached storefront exposures. All companies cleared within an hour of dispatch.

- Fire News photo

by Maurice Delage

On May 4, 2020, the Hartford (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to Franklin Avenue. First-due companies arrived to heavy fire showing from rear porches on the third floor. Crews also reported fire in the cockloft area, about a quarter way into the building. As crews were cleaning up they were dispatched to Huntington Street for a fire report which turned out to be false.

- Fire News photo by Nick Peruta

On March 18, 2020, Hartford (CT) firefighters responded to a two-alarm fire on Hillside Avenue in the city’s Behind the Rocks neighborhood.

- Fire News photo by Jim Peruta

On April 27, 2020, around 0615, the Hartford (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to Main Street for a structure fire.

First-arriving Ladder 3 reported smoke showing. Upon further

investigation they discovered heavy fire in the cockloft. Deputy Chief York ordered a second alarm. Crews pulled ceilings and made a great stop. - Fire News photos by Nick Peruta and Patrick Dooley

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Fire News, July/August 2020, Page 19

Woman Perishes in Hanson House Fire At 2111 on the evening of May 4, 2020, the Hanson (MA) Fire Department responded to a house fire on Pennsylvania Avenue. A crew of four firefighters arrived to find heavy fire and smoke showing from the front of a two-story, wood frame, log cabin-style house. Firefighters were advised by an occupant that one resident of the house had not come out. Firefighters hit the heavy fire with exterior lines at the front, while other firefighters set a ground ladder to a porch on the C side. As fire conditions deteriorated, firefighters were forced to evacuate, as heavy fire consumed the first and second floors. A deck gun and multiple large handlines were put into defensive operations. Hanson Tower1’s ladder pipe was also put into operation and an additional engine was requested to the scene for water supply. Mutual aid companies came from Halifax, Pembroke and Whitman; Hanover covered Hanson.

Whitman CERT Team Rehab Unit provided rehab. The victim was identified as 58-year-old female. The cause was under investigation.

- Fire News photo by Pat Travers

11 Displaced in Seymour At approximately 1830 on April 12, 2020, the Seymour (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to Nichols Street for a house fire.

First units found fire showing from the second-floor porch of a 2-1/2 story wood frame. The fire extended minimally to the attic before being brought under control. Eleven people were displaced by the fire but there were no reported injuries. Mutual aid responded from Beacon Falls and Oxford.

- Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com

Page 22, Fire News, July/August 2020

3 Injured in Carver MVA

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Carver (MA) Fire Companies 1 and 3 responded to a MVA rollover on Tremont Street near the Plymouth town line. Engine 3 checked for any entrapped but all occupants were out of the vehicle upon arrival. Carver EMS transported one patient while two mutual aid ambulances were called, one from Wareham and one from Plymouth and they both transported patients.

- Fire News photos by Tyler Reardon and John Sjostedt

Fatality at Bloomfield Car vs.

House MVA On April 20, 2020, the Bloomfield (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to a car into a house on Greenwood Avenue.

At the same time, Hartford Engine 16 was dispatched to a car fire at the address as well. First arriving units reported a car into the house on fire with entrapment, which dispatched a full assignment from Hartford. The house sustained damage and a gas leak.

The driver of the vehicle was pronounced dead at the scene.

- Fire News photos by Nick Peruta and Patrick Dooley

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Fire News, July/August 2020, Page 23

Lengthy Extrication in Spencer

On April 24, 2020 Spencer (MA) firefighters responded to a large dump truck rollover in which the driver was pinned. Crews worked hard and after a lengthy extrication were able to free the driver.

Spencer EMS transported him to UMass Hospital in Worcester.

- Fire News photo by Bud Harris

Page 24, Fire News, July/August 2020

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PED Killed on I-95 in Pawtucket Around 1200 on April 19, 2020, the Pawtucket (RI) Fire Department responded to I-95 northbound in the area of exit 27 for a report of a pedestrian struck. Pawtucket Police, and the Rhode Island State Police also responded. Companies arrived to find a person down in the roadway, who had been struck by a vehicle. The man was pronounced dead at the scene. It was unclear why the person was on the highway.

- Fire News photo by Pat Travers

Sturbridge Truck Rollover Sturbridge (MA) crews responded to an overturned tractor-trailer on the off ramp from Interstate 84 to Route 20 east. The driver and passenger refused medical attention. The truck was carrying a large load of paper rolls.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

Leicester Extrication Recently, firefighters responded to an MVA with entrapment on Main Street in Leicester (MA). Crews extricated one occupant and transported the person to a nearby hospital with non-lifethreatening injuries.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

Guardrail Pierces Car in Whitman Around 1510 on May 27, 2020, the Whitman (MA) Fire Department responded to an MVA on Auburnville Way, an over 55-community off of Auburn Street.

Ambulance-249, Engine-243 and Car-3 responded. Companies arrived to find a single vehicle with the car into a wooden guardrail near the clubhouse.

The guardrail smashed the front of the vehicle, and came through the windshield and completely into the passenger compartment on the passenger side of the vehicle. Luckily, the only occupant of the vehicle, the driver, was reported to be uninjured. Engine-243 stood by while the vehicle was removed from the wooden guardrail.

- Fire News photo by Pat Travers

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Fire News, July/August 2020, Page 25

How Many Poles Came Down?

In the late afternoon of April 12, 2020, Charlton (MA) Fire and Police responded to a single-car accident on City Depot Road.

An SUV crashed into poles and rolled onto its side. Live wires sparked a fire consuming about half-acre of land. Five poles were snapped off, from the scene, back to the intersection of Brookfield Road, dropping wires and pulling services off of a couple nearby houses. National Grid was called for an immediate response. The operator of the vehicle self-extricated prior to responders arrival.

- Fire News photo by Bud Harris

Long Extrication on the Mass Pike Recently, crews responded to a rollover MVA on the off ramp from I-290/I-395 to the Massachusetts Turnpike. The driver was pinned for over 2-1/2 hours. Worcester’s (MA) Rescue 1 was called mutual aid to assist with extrication. A medical helicopter was requested but was unavailable due to weather conditions. The helicopter crew was driven to the scene. A heavy-duty tow truck was called to the scene to stabilize the truck while firefighters extricated the driver.

- Fire news photo by Paul Shea

Page 26, Fire News, July/August 2020

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1 Injured, 1 Fatality at Turnpike MVA On May 13, 2020, firefighters responded to an MVA on the Massachusetts Turnpike ramp from Route 20. The operator of the passenger car crossed over the median, striking a box truck. The driver of the box truck had serious injuries and was medevac’d to a Worcester hospital. The other operator was pronounced deceased on scene.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

Fall River MVA Fall River (MA) units along with two Medical Rescues responded to the intersection of Pleasant Street and Eastern Avenue, for an MVA with injuries. Heavy Rescue 1, Ladder 4, and Engine 9, responded to assist the paramedics with extrication and stabilization of the patients.

- Fire News photo by Ken Leger

Sturbridge 3-Car MVA On April 25, 2020, Sturbridge (MA) Fire and Police, and Massachusetts State Police responded to the intersection of Fiske Hill and Whittemore Roads for a three-car MVA. Sturbridge crews popped a door with hydraulic tools to assist one of the victims out of the car. Two patients were transported to the hospital.

- Fire News photo by Bud Harris

Car Crashes Through Gas Pump in Brockton Around 0700 on April 2, 2020, the Brockton (MA) Fire Department responded to an MVA at Centre and Sheriden Streets. Companies arrived to find a two-vehicle crash with one vehicle colliding with a gas pump at Trojan Gas on Centre Street. The occupant self-extricated prior to the fire department’s arrival. Engine-4 stretched a pre-connect as a precaution. No leaks from the pumps were evident. The occupant of the vehicle that struck the gas pump was transported with non-life-threatening injuries.

- Fire News photo by Pat Travers

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Fire News, July/August 2020, Page 27

Page 28, Fire News, July/August 2020

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Faulty CO Detector Call Recently, Carver (MA) Fire Company 3 responded to a carbon monoxide investigation along with Carver EMS. Engine 3 found a faulty detector on division 1 and Carver EMS evaluated the patient with no transport required.

- Fire News photo by Tyler Reardon

Rescue at Quincy Fall On May 2, 2020, Quincy (MA) firefighters were called to a quarry for a report of a female who had fallen. A K9 trooper from the Massachusetts State Police was able to locate the female who had minor injuries. With the help of Quincy firefighters she was lowered to the nearby highway and a waiting ambulance.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

Quick Save in Webster On April 23, 2020, the crew of Engine 4 in Webster (MA) witnessed an MVA in which one car ended up in the water. The driver was removed from the vehicle by the crew using a nearby boat.

- Fire News photo by Bud Harris

The Water’s Still Frigid On April 19, 2020, Auburn (MA) firefighters responded to Eddy Pond where a man fell out of his kayak and hung onto a piece of driftwood. He was able to make a brief 911 call from his cellphone. Auburn firefighters deployed their boat and were able to pick up the man who was very cold and was transported to the hospital for exposure.

- Fire News photo by Bud Harris

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Up Close & Personal Belltown (CT) Lieutenant Sean Martensen comes out of the building following a dwelling fire on Colonial Road on May 5, 2020.

- Fire News photo by PuckStopperPhotography.com

Firefighters wearing protective Covid-19 masks during the pandemic at a structure fire in Holyoke (MA) on April 21, 2020, on North Canal Street.

- Fire News photo by John DeForestt

Goshen (CT) Firefighters crews responded to a house fire on North Street on April 11, 2020.

- Fire News photo by Ed Harvey Lawrence (MA) Engine 9 worked mutual aid at a recent two-bagger in North Andover. Pictured are Lawrence Firefighters Dan Sarois, Eric Humphrey and Shane Battle.

- Fire News photo by Glenn Preston

Hartford (CT) firefighters at an April 27, 2020 two-alarm fire.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

Southbridge (MA) Firefighter Matt Langevin — a fourth generation firefighter with Southbridge — used chains to knock down burning creosote on the liner at a chimney fire.

- Fire News photo by Paul Larochelle

Glocester (RI) firefighter saves Old Glory from a Spruce Ridge Drive fire on May 9, 2020.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle Chief Scott Carrigan, Deputy Jimmy Nolan, Chief Ken Berkenbush and Jason Green at a recent two-alarm fire in Amesbury (MA). - Fire News photo by Glenn Preston

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Up Close & Personal Fitchburg (MA) Firefighter Erica Smith and Leominster (MA) Firefighter Marcus Burnett at the scene of a working fire in Leominster on April 19, 2020.

- Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade

Firefighters from Worcester (MA) Rescue 1, Group 1.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

Rockland (MA) Firefighter Pat Sammon walks back for a bottle change.

- Fire News photo by Pat Travers

A Hartford (CT) firefighter battling a Main Street structure fire on April 27, 2020.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

Assistant Chief Dave VanWart operating at a recent two-alarm fire on Nichols Street in Seymour (CT).

- Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com

Boston Ladder 7 Firefighters Danny McDevitt, Theron Houlder, Jeff Riley and Sean Connolly.

- Fire News photo by Glenn Preston

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Heroes Thanking Heroes On the afternoon of April 17, 2020, local first responders participated in a tribute parade for the health care workers at Harrington Hospital in Southbridge (MA).

- Fire News photo by Bud Harris

Bridgeport 1st Responders Salute Hospital Workers At 1530 on April 16, 2020, Bridgeport (CT) first responders including fire, police and EMS, visited Bridgeport Hospital to show their appreciation for their frontline healthcare workers during the Covid-19 pandemic.

A caravan of emergency vehicles made its way from a previous visit to St. Vincent’s Medical Center just minutes before.

- Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com

Highland Fire Station The Highland Fire Station (MA), an exact replica of the Old State House in Boston, was opened on April 19, 1929. it was completely renovated in 2010 and was re-dedicated on September 11, 2011, to Charles Gott, who was Chief of the Arlington Fire Department from 1875 to 1907.

- Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan

Celebrating EMS Week Recently, numerous agencies participated in a parade for EMS week. The parade started in Worcester (MA) and traveled to Fenway Park in Boston where a ceremony was held. The parade consisted of about 60 ambulances from all over the state, both private and municipal-based services.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

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Stamford Tribute to the Brown Family

On April 23, 2020, the Stamford (CT) Fire Department put together a special event for former Chief of Department Peter Brown. A few weeks earlier Chief Brown lost his wife, Margo, but due to the current Covid19 situation was unable to have proper services. The Stamford Fire Department teamed up with numerous other departments in the area to create a procession by the Brown residence to honor and show support for former Chief Peter Brown and the entire Brown family.

- Fire News photos by PuckStopperPhotography.com and Dave Kempter

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Tribute to Hubbard Hospital Workers On April 22, 2020, during the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, Webster (MA) Fire and other first responders provided a tribute parade for the Hubbard Hospital personnel.

- Fire News photo by Bud Harris

Wells Promoted to DC Springfield (MA) Fire Department Captain David Wells’ last tour on Truck 1. Wells was promoted to Deputy Chief of Dispatch effective March 30, 2020. Wells has served the city for 31 years.

- Fire News photo by John DeForest

Charlton Parades for Kids’ Birthdays In April 2020, the Charlton (MA) Fire and Police helped wish numerous children a happier birthday with extra special parades.

- Fire News photo by Bud Harris

Simsbury Ladies Auxiliary Easter Fire Truck Hop A simple idea to share a little Easter joy turned into a Fire Truck Hop throughout Simsbury (CT). Covering over 400 streets, two fire trucks, named Jelly and Bean, carried the Easter Bunny throughout town. Live GPS signals through Twitter allowed residents to follow the fire trucks. Posts of thanks on social media revealed that the Easter Bunny Fire Truck Hop was seen by many residents in town.

- Submitted by Kitty Vangunten

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Happy Birthday, Rita!

Southbridge (MA) Fire assisted in celebrating Rita’s 94th birthday on April 22, 2020.

- Fire News photo by Bud Harris

Honoring First Responders The Pearl Harbor Memorial Bridge in New Haven (CT) is lit up red in honor of the first responders working the front lines of the COVID crisis.

- Fire News photo by Glenn Duda, CFPA

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Remaining Safe Firefighters wearing protective Covid-19 masks during the pandemic at a structure fire in Holyoke (MA) on April 21, 2020, on North Canal Street.

- Fire News photo by John DeForest

Wahlburgers Feeds First Responders On April 29, 2020, the Wahlburgers food truck rolled into Worcester (MA) to feed first responders and healthcare workers.

The truck arrived behind Worcester Fire Headquarters on Grove Street just before noon. On hand was Bob Wahlberg, who is brother to Paul, who owns Wahlburgers, and brother of Donnie and Mark. Congressman Joe Kennedy III was also on site assisting the officers of Worcester Firefighters Local 1009. The Wahlburgers truck is going across the country to support first responders and health care workers. They were in NYC the following week and traveled to all five boroughs to feed workers on the front lines. The project is being sponsored by Walhburgers and Crescent Capitol. In Worcester more than 300 meals were distributed. The crew moved were also delivered to Saint Vincent’s Hospital with the help of to U-Mass Biotech Park later in the afternoon, where they delivered Steve Favulli of the Box 4 Special Services Canteen.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea 150 meals to workers in the COVID-19 testing lab. Some meals

Bridgeport Shows Its Appreciation On April 16, 2020, Bridgeport first responders including fire, police, and EMS members visited St. Vincent’s Medical Center to show their appreciation for frontline healthcare workers during the Covid-19 pandemic.

- Fire News photo by GireGroundImages.com

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Training

Training in Springfield

Recently, Springfield (MA) firefighters from Truck 1, Engine 1 and Tac 1 trained at the Basketball Hall of Fame. They went through hydrant operations, pump operations, portable deck operations, 2-1/2 inch hose operations and tower operations.

- Fire News photos by John DeForest

SUTPHEN CORPORATION ANNOUNCES NEW SALES AND SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE IN SOUTHERN NEW ENGLAND Sutphen Corporation continues to expand its dealer network

Sutphen Corporation, the largest familyowned fire apparatus manufacturer in the nation, announces today the addition of Shipman’s Fire Equipment, Co., as the official sales and service representative in Connecticut, Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

With decades of fire industry experience, the Shipman’s Fire Equipment, Co. team and owners Lorraine Harrington and Christina Wallace bring extensive fire industry knowledge to the Sutphen dealer network.

“We are excited to welcome Shipman’s Fire Equipment, Co. to the Sutphen family of dealers,” said Sutphen director of sales and marketing, Zach Rudy. “From top to bottom, we are impressed by the company’s business model and offerings. Factor in their family history and established New England roots, and they are the ideal Sutphen dealer for southern New England.”

Like Sutphen, Shipman’s Fire Equipment, Co. is a family-owned-and-operated business. With three generations of experience in the fire industry, Shipman’s was founded by a firefighter, grown by a firefighter and contin-

ues to have both current and former firefighters as a part of the team.

“We are extremely proud to be named the Sutphen sales and service representative for southern New England,” said Shipman’s Fire Equipment’s third-generation owner, Christina Wallace. “Family-owned businesses are a rarity these days, especially in our industry, and to be able to work with Sutphen, a company that not only manufactures the highest quality fire apparatus but is also a fourth-generation, family-owned business, is truly exceptional. Shipman’s and Sutphen share many of the same fundamental beliefs-honesty, consistent dedication to quality products and a commitment to the fire service.”

Wallace continued by saying that fire apparatus sales director Jim Lyons, the apparatus service department and entire Shipman’s team are ready to represent the complete Sutphen brand.

Fourth-generation president of familyowned Sutphen Corporation, Drew Sutphen, said that Shipman’s Fire Equipment, Co.

will contribute greatly to the company’s mission and values.

“The entire Sutphen team and family are excited to welcome Shipman’s Fire Equipment, Co. to our family of dealers,” Sutphen said. “With their extensive fire history and family background, we are confident Shipman’s will help grow our business while holding true to our mission of providing the safest, most reliable fire apparatus in the world.” For more information regarding Shipman’s Fire Equipment, Co., follow this link here: https://www.shipmans.com/.

For more information regarding Sutphen as a company, follow this link here: https://www.sutphen.com/.

To see the breakdown of Sutphen’s entire dealer network, follow this link here: https:// www.sutphen.com/locations/.

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Cover Story

2-Alarmer at South WindsorEast Hartford Border

On April 8, 2020, South Windsor and East Hartford (CT) firefighters responded to a fire in South Windsor, across the street from the East Hartford town line. The departments remained on the scene for several hours fighting the fire — which went to a second alarm — from the exterior and overhauling.

- Fire News photos by Jim Peruta, Patrick Dooley and John DeForest

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