Fire news southern new england 1 18

VOLUME 6, NO. 1

W W W .FIRENE WS .COM

Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Since 1973 JANUARY 2018

See story on page 19.

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Fire News Wishes Our Readers Happy Holidays and a Safe 2018!

-Southern New England Edition-

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Fire News, January 2018, Page 3

In this issue...

Good Stop in Bloomfield Crews made an excellent early morning stop in Bloomfield (CT) on November 5, 2017.

See story on page 8

Millbury Blaze On November 18, 2017, Millbury (MA) firefighters responded to a fire on Railroad Avenue.

See story on page 10

Chasing Fire in New Haven New Haven (CT) firefighters, were able to quickly extinguish a fire in a vacant dwelling on Howard Avenue.

See story on page 12

Worker Burned in Providence Explosion Providence (RI) FD responded to the Metals Recycling Center for an explosion with a man burned.

See story on page 14

100 Year Anniversary of Engine 12 Bridgeport (CT) FD celebrated the 100th anniversary of Engine 12 at their quarters on Beechmont Avenue.

See story on page 40

Obituaries Simsbury’s Deputy Chief Michael J. Jepeal Watertown’s Chief Mario Orangio Arlington’s Deputy Chief Stephen J. Porciello

See story on pages 30-32

PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 4 Up Close & Personal . . . . . . . . . .pages 20 & 24 Southern New England Fire Service in Action . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pages 25-28 Special Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 42 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 42 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 43

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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 CLIFF CHIESA, Art Director/Production Manager Advertising Sales: BARBARA CONNOLLY, EVELYN ALOISIO Graphic Artists: GREG JONES, LYNN SEDLER CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS ALAN BRACKETT, AMANDA CARMODY, THOMAS CARMODY, OWEN CARRIGAN, ROGER CONANT, KEVIN CZARZASTY, TIM DELANEY, ROB DILLON, PATRICK DOOLEY, DOUG DOW, OLIVIA DRAKE, GLENN DUDA, LIZ FEITELBERG, JIM FORTIN, JR., SEAN FREIMAN, TIM GORMAN, JOHN HANLEY, ED HARVEY, JEFFREY HASTINGS, STEPHEN HESS, MIKE IPPOLITO, DORRANCE “DOC” JOHNSON, RICK KULMANN, KEN LABELLE, ROBERT LADD, MICHAEL LAPRADE, SCOTT LAPRADE, PAUL LAROCHELLE, JR., KEN LEGER, CHARLIE MCGRATH, KEITH MURATORI, BOB MYERS, RICK NOHL, BILL NOONAN, PETER OSTROSKEY JR., CHRIS PALMER, JIM PERUTA, PETER POZERSKI, GLENN PRESTON, ROB REARDON, LARRY RILEY, DICK SCIALABBA, PAUL SHEA, JOE SHEFER, NICK STEHN, CHRIS STEINES, RICK SUSI, KEVIN TAPPE, JON TENCA PAT TRAVERS, STEPHEN WALSH, DEVON WHALEN, KEVIN WHITE, MICHAEL YOUNG COPYRIGHT 2017, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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Page 4, Fire News, January 2018

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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor

Set the Example in 2018 As I gave thought to the highlights of 2017, I asked myself what I planned on doing to make 2018 a banner year. I decided I wanted to make my New Year’s resolution something different than I have in the past.

Thinking ahead to 2019, I want to be able to look back on 2018 with a smile and to be able to say that I made a difference in the fire service.

All of us need to make a difference in the jobs that we perform daily. For the average first responder, it is easy to become complacent and accept the easy way out to make your required training and response points for the year. I was annoyed in 2017, when I heard members turn down extra training because they met the requirement for training for a certain discipline. Let’s face it, if you take a class on knots, most members may walk away from the knot class with a basic understanding of how to tie a few knots, but would they put their life on the line as FDNY Rescue 1 firefighter James Lee did to save a life as he went over the side of a building to rescue an 81-year-old man from a fifth-floor window at an intense six-alarm fire in

Manhattan? For 2018, look in the mirror and ask yourself would you, or could you, perform a lifesaving skill if you were placed in a precarious situation.

In 2018, push yourself to be the best of the best! Care about setting the example for others to follow. If you are a seasoned veteran or just starting your career, you must review and practice your basic skills on a regular basis. You must discuss all calls, especially those where things may have gone wrong.

For the seasoned veteran, realize your limitations. Veteran first responders still need to practice the skills they were taught years ago along with the younger members. I see so many mistakes that are made due to complacency. Do you always don your gear the correct way? Do you wear your chin strap, gloves and button your turnout coat the correct way? When you return from a serious call are you cleaning your gear, especially your protective hood? Make sure your department has a program in place to make sure your PPE is ready to protect you, when the need arises. Take the time in 2018 to inspect your gear on a routine basis. Make

sure it is clean. Dirty gear is not a badge of honor. Career firefighters generally perform a routine check of the equipment they will be using for their shift; volunteer firefighters perform this task on a regular basis as well, typically as part of scheduled work details.

But, are you really doing it? Make sure you lose the attitude that someone else inspected the equipment yesterday, so you can get away without doing it today.

When the ball drops on New Year’s Eve, hug your loved ones, remember the families of our fallen, say a prayer for world peace, and dust off your training manuals, so you can be the best at what you love to do. Happy New Year to all!

-Dennis

Page 6, Fire News, January 2018

4-Alarm Barn Fire

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On November 11, 2017, Lakeville (CT) volunteers were dispatched for a vehicle fire inside a storage barn full of hay and equipment on Red Mountain Road. The first officer reported a 100- x 125-foot, single-story, metal clad storage building. This triggered a second, and soon, a third alarm activating the county tanker task force. A fourth alarm brought mutual aid from nearby towns in New York and Massachusetts. It was estimated that the tanker shuttle moved over 250,000 gallons of water to extinguish the heavy fuel load of hay stored in the barn. The building and contents were a total loss but no people or animals were injured.

- Fire News photos by Kevin Czarzasty and Ed Harvey

Windsor Locks Fire

On November 25, 2017, Windsor Locks (CT) Public Safety Dispatch Center received multiple calls reporting a building fire on Halfway House Road. Upon arrival, firefighters found heavy fire showing from the rear of the house, and smoke and fire showing from the front. The first-due engine company was driven back by the intense flames. After a short exterior attack, crews were able to re-enter the structure and

knock down the remainder of the fire in the first floor, attic and attached garage.

Shortly after firefighters arrived, the live power line to the house came down in the front yard and began arcing, requiring Eversource to respond. One resident was transported by Windsor Locks Lions Squad 238 from Warehouse Point provided Ambulance to the hospital for evaluation. station coverage.

Engine 8 from Bradley International - Fire News photos by Airport Fire Department assisted, while Coral Ruggiero and Stephen Hess

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Fire News, January 2018, Page 7

Man Burned at Truck Fire

A worker suffered burns in Cumberland (RI) on November 17, out for the region’s flammable liquid response team. The fire was 2017, at a fire near a home heating oil delivery truck on Mendon swiftly knocked down by the first-due companies.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle Road. The fire involved the driver’s side rear tire and roofline of the garage. A second alarm was called, and a precautionary call went

Page 8, Fire News, January 2018

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2 Providence Buildings Damaged

On October 25, 2017, a still box went out in Providence (RI) for smoke from a building on Atwells Avenue. Engine 14 and Ladder 6 responded and reported smoke showing from a vacant, two-story house. Crews found heavy fire on the first floor and stretched inside. Members of Special Hazards, performing a primary search on the second floor, reported that fire was breaking out on the second floor and that a line was needed. The Chief of the Safety Battalion found smoke showing from a house in the rear of the main fire building. A second alarm was immediately struck. Both fires were knocked down within 30 minutes and no injuries were reported.

- Fire News photo by Tom Carmody

3-Alarmer in Lancaster Lancaster (MA) firefighters responded to a fire on George Hill Road. On arrival, heavy fire was showing from the side. Chief of Department Michael Hanson called a second alarm.

Firefighters stretched a big line to heavy fire conditions on the first and second floors. A third alarm was struck, bringing in mutual aid from Leominster, Shirley, Devens, Sterling, West Boylston, Clinton, Harvard and Hudson.

- Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade

Good Stop in Bloomfield

Crews made an excellent early morning stop in Bloomfield (CT) on November 5, 2017.

Firefighters arrived to heavy fire venting from the second floor. Mutual aid tankers were requested from Simsbury and East Granby.

- Fire News photos by Stephen Hess and Patrick Dooley

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Fire News, January 2018, Page 9

Jewett City Blaze

The Jewett City (CT) Fire Department responded to North Main Street for a fully involved single-family residential fire with serious exposure problems on the B and D sides and vinyl siding on the B side rapidly melting. Large handlines were put to work to quickly stop the exposure impingement, and knock down the bulk of the flames. One occupant of the house was transported for evaluation of non-life threatening injuries. The fire was eventually brought under control, but not before the building was destroyed. Assisting were Griswold, Lisbon, Taftville, Yantic and Plainfield. - Fire News photos by Joe Shefer and Robert Ladd

Page 10, Fire News, January 2018

Millbury Fire

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FF Injured at Providence Blaze

On November 18, 2017, just before midnight Millbury (MA) firefighters responded to a fire on Railroad Avenue.

- Fire News photo by John DeForest, Jr.

Providence (RI) firefighters responded to West Street on November 21, 2017, to find heavy fire venting from the second floor A/D corner. A second alarm was requested. The fire started in the firstfloor walls and traveled up the walls. A captain injured his back when he fell down a stairway. The house sustained heavy damage on both floors. The cause was deemed electrical in nature.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

Just Makin’ Sure Everything Goes Smooth

Bridgeport Ave. Car Fire

Worcester (MA) first due Engine 12 watering a building under demolition on Franklin Street. The former Paris Cinema was also attacked from the C-side by Ladder 3 under the watchful eye of District Chief Ed Thomas.

- Fire News photo by Paul LaRochelle

On November 11, 2017, Shelton (CT) Companies 1 and 4 were dispatched to Bridgeport Avenue in the area of the on-ramp to Route 8 southbound at Exit 13 for a vehicle fire. First arriving companies found a car with an engine compartment fire.

- Fire News photo by Keith Muratori

Waltham Commercial Blaze

Total Loss in Morris Blaze

On November 9, 2017, Waltham (MA) fire received multiple calls for a building fire in the area of Main Street. Firefighters arrived to find heavy smoke showing from a single-story commercial building. A special call went out for an additional engine. Multiple big lines were stretched and firefighters had the bulk of the fire knocked down within 30 minutes.

- Fire News photo by Kevin White

On October 28, 2017, Morris (CT) volunteers, and automatic mutual aid from Bantam, Bethlehem and Litchfield, were dispatched for a structure fire at the vacant Bantam Lake Lodge.

Units reported heavy fire throughout a 2-1/2 story, large, wood frame building. Companies operated on tank water until over a half mile of LDH supply line was laid out and a drafting operation was established from nearby Bantam Lake. The building was a total loss.

- Fire News photo by Kevin Czarzasty

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Fire News, January 2018, Page 11

Page 12, Fire News, January 2018

Chasing Fire in New Haven

On October 22, 2017, New Haven (CT) firefighters, under the command of Deputy Chief William Gould, were able to quickly extinguish a fire in a vacant 2-1/2 story dwelling on Howard Avenue. The fire appeared to have started on the first floor and spread downward and into the basement where firefighters confronted a heavy fire condition. From there, the flames extended upwards through the walls, along the chimney chase and into the attic. Truck 1 and Truck 2 opened the roof, as members pulled ceilings and opened walls to uncover pockets of fire.

Chief John Alston was on hand to supervise the firefighting operation.

- Fire News photos by Doc Johnson and Glenn Duda, CFPA

Acton 3-Alarmer

The Acton (MA) Fire Department responded to a multi-unit apartment building on Iris Court on October 17, 2017. Engine 22 and 26, and Maynard Ladder 1 responded on the initial alarm. Car 1 arrived to find light smoke showing from the eaves of the building. Interior crews encountered a heavy smoke condition on the third floor. A second alarm was struck, quickly followed by a third, due to rapidly deteriorating conditions. Crews found the third floor fire extending into the walls and ceiling, but had the bulk of the fire knocked down in 45 minutes. Mutual aid came from Maynard, Concord, Littleton, Boxborough, Westford, Sudbury and Stow; Ayer, Lincoln and Hudson covered.

- Fire News photos by Jim Fortin, Jr., Scott LaPrade and Owen Carrigan

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Fire News, January 2018, Page 13

Hartford 2-Alarmer

Brockton Arson No. 1

On October 2, 2017, Hartford (CT) firefighters responded to a fire on Irving Street in the city’s North End. First arriving units found heavy fire showing from the A side on the second and third floor. A second alarm was struck and handlines were put into operation.

- Fire News photo by Jim Peruta, CFPA

Brockton (MA) Fire Alarm reported a fire in a vacant house fire on Montello Street on October 4, 2017. Engines 2 and 4, Ladder 2 and Squad A responded under the command of Deputy Chief Davis in Car 56. Ladder 2 arrived and Captain Tilton ordered a second alarm as the 2-1/2 story wood frame tenement was fully involved.

Engines 5 and 7, and Ladder 4 responded. DC Davis requested Engine 3 to respond as well. Chief of Department Williams arrived and took command. Several handlines, deck guns and ladder pipes were used, and the building collapsed within 20 minutes of arrival.

This was the first of two arson fires during the early morning hours in the city.

- Fire News photo by Bob Myers

Page 14, Fire News, January 2018

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Barricaded Man Found Dead

Leominster (MA) Fire responded on October 16, 2017, for a fire in a home in which a man had barricaded himself and set on fire. Police had attempted to serve a civil commitment on the man shortly before the fire broke out. Neighbors reported shots being fired but police were not able to confirm that and no weapon was found. The home was heavily damaged while firefighters sprayed it with water from protected positions. The entire department, along with state police, would eventually respond to the scene. A nearby school was locked down during the incident. After the fire was knocked down, police negotiators attempted to have the man surrender. After several hours the State Police STOP Team entered the building and found the subject deceased.

- Fire News photo by Robert Allen

Worker Burned in Providence Explosion

On October 24, 2017, the Providence (RI) Fire Department responded to the Metals Recycling Center on Waldo Street for a call of an explosion with a man burned. On arrival, Engine 8 reported a man with third degree burns to his lower body and torso. There was no active fire or any other victims. The man was in the process of preparing a discarded gas cylinder for recycling when it exploded. OSHA was notified of the injury and sent a representative. Members of the Providence Arson Squad were also investigating.

- Fire News photo by Tom Carmody

Burn Victim Flown From Pembroke

The Pembroke (MA) Fire Department responded to Riverside Drive, for a report of a person suffering burns. Companies arrived to find a 26-year-old male with third degree burns on his arms.

Paramedics requested Boston MedFlight to respond. They landed at an LZ at the Kohl’s on Church Street. The patient was transported to the Rhode Island Hospital in Providence (RI). The cause of the incident was under investigation.

- Fire News photo by Pat Travers

Medevac in Bellingham

A male fell from a fifth-wheel area of a tractor-trailer cab in Bellingham (MA) on November 1, 2017. The patient suffered serious trauma to his head. A medevac helicopter landed at the town’s high school to remove the man to the hospital.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

Car vs. Pole in Whitman Parking Lot

On October 27, 2017, the Whitman (MA) Fire Department responded to the parking lot on Bedford Street for a reported car into a barrier. Ambulance 249, Engine 243 and Car 3 responded.

Units arrived to a single car crashed into a concrete barrier holding a handicap parking sign in the nearly empty parking lot. The driver reported that the sun’s glare had blinded him and he collided with the pole. No one was injured, and the Plymouth County Sheriffs Department BCI unit responded.

- Fire News photo by Pat Travers

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Fire News, January 2018, Page 15

Page 16, Fire News, January 2018

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Training

Woonsocket RIT Training The Greater Woonsocket (RI) Fire Chiefs Association conducted RIT training on Asylum Street in a vacant house. The real-world training was delivered by PL Vulcan Fire Training Concepts.

Chief Andrews has spearheaded a campaign to train all area departments in RIT preparedness. Students learned to remove firefighters from all areas of the building.

- Fire News photo by Paul LaRochelle

Tanker Drill in Worcester On October 7, 2017, Massachusetts Fire District 7 held a tanker drill. This particular group is responsible for responding to the City of Worcester during large water main breaks. The drill interfaced Worcester companies with rural water supply operations, and confirmed radio inter-operability between the towns and Worcester’s new P25 trunking system.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

Clinton Drills Clinton firefighters drilling at the Worcester Fire Drill Yard on October 3, 2017.

- Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade

Canaan Hosts Live Fire Training Session Firefighters from Sheffield (MA) back up a crew from Canaan (CT) at a live fire training session that Canaan recently hosted.

- Fire News photo by Ed Harvey

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Fire News, January 2018, Page 17

Training

Lincoln Trains at Bellingham

Lincoln (RI) firefighters from Station 3 trained at the Bellingham’s (MA) mobile training facility on November 1, 2017. Members performed SAR, roof venting, cellar fires and fire control using handlines and water cans.

- Fire News photos by Ken LaBelle

Page 18, Fire News, January 2018

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Training

NoFIRES Conference On November 8 and 9, 2017, NoFires sponsored a conference in Hadley (MA) focusing on the investigation of fatal fires. Speakers covered topics related to the causes of fires and the contributing factors. Discussed in detail were fires caused by smoking materials, and how hoarding conditions hindered escape, rescue, suppression and investigation of fatal fires. Speakers from the mental health field presented on the resources available to address hoarding. Additionally, legal experts shared insight on interview procedures, accelerant detection K9s demonstrated their amazing abilities, and a live fire investigation session was both attention grabbing and educational. The program was very informative and an excellent opportunity to network with other professionals in a multi-disciplinary setting. NoFIRES has already started planning for the 2018 conference (www.NoFIRES.net).

- Fire News photos by Ed Harvey and Josh Shanley

Drafting Drill …‘Cause Ya’ Never Know North Reading (MA) firefighters took time recently to conduct a drafting operations drill from a pond on Concord Street.

Firefighters simultaneously flowed nearly 4000 gpm out of master stream appliances off Engines 1, 2 and Ladder 1. Drafting in this area is rare but a must-know in the event it needs to be employed.

- Fire News photo by Kevin White

3 Town Training in Worcester Northboro, Southboro and Westboro (MA) fire departments held their annual live burn at the Worcester Fire Department burn building on October 10, 2017. The three departments spent a few days at the facility rotating their groups through.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

Tolland Co. Tanker Drill A Tolland County (CT) tanker drill was held on October 22, 2017, at the Hebron Fair Grounds.

Sixteen departments participated with 25 pieces of apparatus and at one point were moving 27000 gallons per minute.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

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Cover Story

Longmeadow firefighters providing mutual aid for a recent fire on Mapleshade Avenue in East Longmeadow (MA).

- Fire News photos by Mark Grabowski

Fire News, January 2018, Page 19

Page 20, Fire News, January 2018

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Up Close & Personal

New Haven (CT) firefighters at October 22, 2017 fire on Howard Avenue.

- Fire News photo by Doc Johnson

Firefighters conferring at Transit Street fire on a very windy afternoon on November 10, 2017, in Woonsocket (RI).

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

Fire News photographer Patrick Dooley’s assistant (and grandson), Logan, at a Silver Lane, East Hartford (CT) fire on October 24, 2017.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley Duxbury Fire Department Shift 2 was first due at a working fire in Duxbury (MA).

- Fire News photo by Rob Reardon

North Reading (MA) Fire Captain Rick Nash and his son, North Reading Firefighter/Paramedic Brian Nash at a recent training evolution. Captain Nash is set to retire in early 2018.

- Fire News photo by Kevin White

Chiefs Jack McLaughlin from Clinton and Michael Hanson of Lancaster take a breather after a fire. Chief McLaughlin is retiring at the end of the year. - Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade

Canaan (CT) Fire Captain Shanna Pitcher monitors the crews during a live fire training session.

Hanson (MA) Firefighter Paramedic Sean Gerraughty.

- Fire News photo by Pat Travers

Firefighter Mike LaPrade and Captain Dan Felix from Effingham Fire Department at a fire in Wakefield NH on October 8, 2017.

- Fire News photo by Mike LaPrade

- Fire News photo by Ed Harvey

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Fire News, January 2018, Page 21

Page 24, Fire News, January 2018

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Up Close & Personal

North Providence (RI) Ladder 1.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

Harvard (MA) firefighters standby as the RIT team at a recent fire in Lancaster.

- Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade

Members of the Blue Hills Fire Department mutual aid to Bloomfield (CT) on November 5, 2017.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

Manchester (NH) firefighters from Rescue 1 get together for a group shot before returning to quarters from a second-alarm fire on West Hancock Street. - Fire News photo by Kevin White

Rescue 5 Lieutenant Pete Morotto (left) and Battalion Chief Mike Caldaroni operating at an all-hands fire in Bridgeport (CT) on September 28, 2017.

- Fire News photo by Keith Muratori

Firefighters help remove a captain who went down from heat exhaustion while working on the roof on November 15, 2017, at a barn fire.

- Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade

Two of Holden’s firefighters are not only firefighters but Firefighters Hirons (left) and Beahn are engaged to be married.

This was a rare opportunity working the same fire.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

Worcester (MA) Engine 13 Lieutenant Cady with Firefighters Valentine and Shanley at a recent working fire on the Auburn town line. - Fire News photo by Paul LaRochelle

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Fire News, January 2018, Page 25

Southern New England Firefighters in Action

On October 21, 2017, New Bedford (MA) firefighters were dispatched to Acushnet Avenue for a smoke condition.

- Fire News photo PuckStopperPhotography.com

ters were dispatched to Lawrence (MA) firefigh September 29, 2017. on fire f a reported roo

by Kevin White to pho s - Fire New

On October 2, 2017, North Providence (RI) firefighters responded to the corners of Dougl as and Mineral Spring Avenues for a building fire.

- Fire News photo by Tom Carmody

On November 12, 2017, firefighters responded to a fire in Manchester (CT) in a second-floor bedroom, reportedly started by a candle.

- Fire News photo

by Patrick Dooley

Recently, Wakefield firefighters responded to a pickup versus box truck MVA on Route 16.

- Fire News photo by Frank Pevear

Lisbon (CT) firefighters were dispatched to Bushn ell Road for a fully involved pool/cabana structure - Fire News photo by Joe Shefer

Recently, Rutland (MA) firefighters were called to Irish Lane for a house fire.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

Page 26, Fire News, January 2018

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Southern New England Firefighters in Action

Just after midnight on October 23, 2017, the Whitman (MA) Fire Department responded to Pearl Str eet, for two sheds on fire.

Engine 243, Ladder 246 and Car 3 responded.

- Fire News photo by Pat Travers ies were West Haven (CT) compan eet.

On November 13, 2017, Str all rsh Ma on fire ey dispatched for a chimn nn Duda, CFPA - Fire News photo by Gle

Recently, the Duxbury (MA) Fire Department responded to a fully involved structure fire with a reported handicapped person trapped.

Crews later found out the person wasn’t home.

The fire was started by a short circuit of electrical equipment.

- Fire News photo by Rob Reardon On October 19, 2017, Watertown (CT) volunteers made quick work of a well involved second-floor fire in a vacant residential structure on Earle Avenue.

- Fire News photo by Kevin Czarzasty

On September 28, 2017, Norwood (MA) Fire Dispatch received a call reporting a house fire on Birch Road.

- Fire News photo provided

Andover (MA) firefigh ter November 27, 2017, for s responded on a report of smoke coming from a dwelling on Prince - Fire News photo by Kev ton Avenue. in White

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Fire News, January 2018, Page 27

Page 28, Fire News, January 2018

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Southern New England Firefighters in Action

Smithfield (RI) Engine 2 handled a fire in a pickup truck on the night of November 9, 2017, on St. Michael’s Way. - Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

e Department the Cambridge (MA) Fir lding fire, On November 30, 2017, bui ed ort rep a for eet responded to Auburn Str tral Square area. in the city’s Cen en Carrigan - Fire News photo by Ow

On September 25, 2017, Wakefield (NH) firefighters responded to a fire on Bonnyman Road.

- Fire News photo by Mike LaPrade

On November 25, 2017, Fall River (MA) firefighters responded to the River View Condominiums complex on North Main Street for a fire.

- Fire News photo by Ken Leger

Firefighters responded to a kitchen fire in an apartment building on October 13, 2017.

- Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade

On September 28, 2017, the Bridgeport (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to the East Side for a house fire on Park Street.

On October 4, 2017, Sta mford (CT) Fire Depart firefighters along with ment the Department were dispat Turn of River Volunteer Fire ched to Merritt Parkw ay southbound in the area of Riv erbank Road for a bru sh fire - Fire News photo by Puc kStopperPhotography.co . m

- Fire News photo by Keith Muratori

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Fire News, January 2018, Page 29

East Greenwich Firefighters Hold Fundraiser for One of Their Own

East Greenwich Firefighters IAFF Local 3328 held a fundraiser on October 23, 2017, for one of their own firefighters, Edward ‘TJ’ Matola, who has been out of work since August, following a very serious motorcycle accident in Pennsylvania. Matola has been a Paramedic for over 20-years, and has been with the East Greenwich Fire Department as a Firefighter, Paramedic and EMS Coordinator for over 12-years. He has three young children and his wife of 17 years, Kerri. TJ has had several surgeries, and is on a long road to recovery.

The benefit dinner was held at the East Greenwich Veteran Fireman’s Hall. Dinner was donated by Texas Roadhouse. Countless raffle prizes

were available, along with a 50/50. The hall was packed full of fellow firefighters, family, friends and members of the Fire and Iron MC, a firefighters motorcycle club of which TJ is President of Station 60 in Coventry (RI).

At the end of the evening, TJ and his family were presented with over $14,000 in donations from the evening. Including the 50/50 winners share of over $1,000, which was donated back to TJ. We wish TJ a speedy recovery and hope to see him back at work soon.

- Fire News photos by Pat Travers

Page 30, Fire News, January 2018

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Obituary

Simsbury’s Deputy Chief Michael J. Jepeal

Michael J. Jepeal, Deputy Chief of the Simsbury Volunteer Fire Company, died on September 24, 2017, in a car accident.

He joined the Tariffville Fire Company 1974 and was a Captain when they merged with the Simsbury Volunteer Fire Company in 1983. He rose through the ranks again and was appointed Deputy Chief of Training on January 5, 2005, with the call sign of S-21.

According to Chief James A. Baldis, “Mike had a passion for training and was instrumental in Simsbury’s advanced training of high angle rope rescue needed for Talcott Mountain and swift water rescue needed for the Farmington River Gorge at Tariffville.” Jepeal was also responsible for specifications and procurement of new mobile fire apparatus and personal protective equipment and tools.

Jepeal worked in the Certification Division for the Commission on Fire Prevention and Control. In that capacity, he interacted with, and was respected by, firefighters throughout the state.

In 2001, Jepeal was named Instructor of the Year by the Connecticut Fire Department Instructors’ Association. At the time, he was Lead Instructor for the Hartford County Fire School and Lead Instructor for the Connecticut Fire Academy Recruit Program. In presenting the award at the association’s annual dinner, their President, David Bowen, cited Mike’s dedication to training the firefighters of Connecticut. “His sincere dedication to a better fire service makes him a unique individual.”

In his own department, he was known for cooking for any fire department event. He led the food booth at the carnival, grilled at the picnic, baked potatoes and prepared firehouse chili at Septemberfest and headed up the cooking at the retiree’s dinner and Ladies Auxiliary dinner.

Simsbury firefighter Joseph Barrett spoke about his friend and said, “People have asked: ‘How long did you know Mike?’ Several answers present themselves: One: I knew Mike about a third of my life; or two, 19 years or so, or three (the one Mike would appreciate): Far, far too long. But the best and most truthful answer is, and ever will be: Not nearly long enough!”

Jepeal was born in 1954 and lived in Tariffville (CT) his entire life.

He was married to the late Joan Aletha (Dahms) Jepeal and they had one son, Michael. He also leaves behind the legions of fire service members he has trained.

- Submitted by Kitty Vangunten

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Obituary

Watertown’s Chief Mario Orangio

On November 10, 2017, firefighters from Watertown (MA) and beyond, as well as chiefs from around the region, joined family and friends of Watertown Fire Chief Mario Orangio to celebrate his life and career. Chief Orangio, 51, passed after a long battle with occupational cancer which forced his early retirement from the WFD. He was a great leader who rose through the ranks of the Watertown Fire Department to the position of Fire Chief where he proudly led its members for over a decade. A dedicated husband, father of three and grandfather, Chief Orangio made a great impact on people in and out of the department, which was readily apparent through the words spoken by his daughters and fellow colleagues at his funeral.

As a family man and a true professional, he will be irreplaceable to his family, the Watertown Fire Department and the fire service.

Firefighters from nearby communities, including Newton and Waltham, provided station coverage for Watertown while services were held allowing any Watertown personnel to attend.

- Fire News photos by Kevin White

Page 32, Fire News, January 2018

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Obituary

Arlington’s Deputy Chief Stephen J. Porciello

Deputy Fire Chief Stephen J. Porciello was laid to rest on October 12, 2017. Deputy Chief Porciello, who was a member of the Arlington Fire Department and Deputy Chief for 22 of his 32 years, passed away on October 4, 2017, after a long battle with occupational cancer.

Chief Porciello was the beloved husband of Joyce (Davanage); father of Stephen Porciello and his wife Bethany of Woburn; and Jenna Speck and her husband Ryan of Rhode Island; grandfather to Evelyn and Grace; devoted son of Josephine Porciello of Arlington and the late Anthony Porciello; brother of Anthony Porciello and his wife Nancy of

Peabody, Rachel Cutliffe of Billerica, and Francis Porciello of Arlington; and son-in-law of Marilyn Davanage of Arlington. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Chief Porciello served with the US Navy in Viet Nam. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Arlington Firefighters Relief Association, 1007 Mass Avenue, Arlington, MA 02474.

- Fire News photos by Owen Carrigan

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Giving Juniors a Taste

On September 16, 2017, the Lanesboro (MA) Fire Department held a Berkshire County Junior Firefighters day. The event was attended by junior firefighters from as far away as Palmer.

The event offered junior firefighters different evaluation stations for things such as SAR, ladder ops, vehicle extrication, wildland firefighting and more. During lunch, the Life Net helicopter, based out of New York, came for a show-and-tell. At the conclusion of the day, participants were presented with a certificate of attendance.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

Safe Halloween in Baltic Baltic (CT) Fire Engine Company 1’s Safe Halloween Program drew over 1100 trick-or-treaters this year. Children and parents were able to fill their bags with candy and chips as well as a free fire/smoke detector for Sprague (CT) residents. And one lucky person won a dinner for two at Irene’s Restaurant in Norwich - Fire News photo by Reg Patchell

Page 34, Fire News, January 2018

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RI Fire Academy Grads

The Rhode Island Fire Academy Class 003 recently graduated Congratulations and welcome to the best job in the world.

- Fire News photos by Ken LaBelle recruits to their respected departments. Probationary members trained on live fire attack, roof ventilation and searches.

New Rescue Unit for Worcester

Worcester Rescue 1, a 2017 E-One Cyclone heavy rescue, replaced Laino, as well as some elected city officials and fire department a similar 2001 model. The unit was delivered on October 13, 2017. chaplains participated.

- Fire News photos by Paul Shea The truck was blessed on November 16 in quarters at Franklin Street station as members of Rescue 1, Group 3, led by Captain

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Time Marches On in Boston

On October 21, 2017, Boston firefighters from Engine 42, Rescue 2, Ladder 30 (disbanded) and District 9, had a gathering for past and present firefighters to say goodbye to their firehouse. The house is slated to be demolished to make room for a new two-story, three-bay firehouse. Retired firefighters stopped in to share stories and laughs and look at photos from years gone by. It was a great day with food, coffee (a firehouse staple) and good weather followed by lots of laughs amongst friends.

- Fire News photos by Scott LaPrade

USS Constitution Back at Sea

On October 20, 2017, Boston Fire’s Marine 1, the John S. Damrell took part in escorting the USS Constitution out to South Boston. The Damrell along with Massport Fire’s American United both accompanied the iconic warship from the Charlestown Navy Yard to Fort Independence on Castle Island with a full water cannon display. The day commemorated not only the 242nd birthday of the US Navy and the 220th anniversary of the Constitution’s launch but also the first time Old Ironsides had sailed in three years after undergoing a major restoration.

- Fire News photos by Kevin White

Page 36, Fire News, January 2018

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An Investment in a Community: Carver, MA

By Rob Reardon In a time when many call fire departments struggle to keep membership numbers up, a small town in Massachusetts has been very successful. Carver, Massachusetts, which is known as ‘Cranberry Country’ has a population just over 11,500 people and is landlocked by towns with full-time fire departments.

The Carver Fire Department (CFD) has three fire stations with 80 on-call firefighters. Their budget is a fraction of neighboring departments, but they are able to staff engines at levels you see within the FDNY. Neighboring departments can see four to six firefighters out the door, whereas CFD averages 21 firefighters during daytime responses and over 30 at night. Their on-scene time for 2017 is 5.4 minutes with a fully staffed engine or breaker.

The town’s latest investment into the CFD was a multi-million-dollar fire station and training facility. Why would a town with only call firefighters invest so much in a fire station and training facility? By investing so much in a new facility and training center the town has invested in their call firefighters. These firefighters don’t get big 401 plans or pensions. They don’t get paid a lot of money. They don’t take

Stamford Fire Gets New Scott Packs

the job for the health benefits because there are none. So why do they do it? They do it because they truly want to be firefighters, love what they do and have tremendous pride in their work. The town investing in these firefighters with a station and training facility shows it is truly working to keep CFD a call fire department for years to come. There are very few — if any — departments in Massachusetts that have a training facility like CFD’s. The on-site facility allows the town’s firefighters to train closer to home on the weekends and nights after the firefighters finish working their first jobs.

CFD costs Carver about $50 per resident to operate and accounts for only 1.7 percent of the town’s budget. The budget for 19 pieces of apparatus, three fire stations, training facility, all salary and operations is $599,000. Each year that they are able to keep a call system working at a high standard, they save the town more than $2 million. That allows those savings to be directed to other town functions and budgets. The cost of the training facility was paid for in about four months by that math. In addition, they have secured over 40 grants in recent years for over $1.2 million of needed fire equipment.

The pride within the Carver Fire Department is tremendous and it is apparent when you visit them. The stations, apparatus and equipment are meticulously maintained. Every vehicle in their fleet has their motto, “On Call Professionals Serving Carver with Pride,” lettered on them. As a taxpayer of the community I see a tremendous return coming from the investment we have made in this department.

The Stamford (CT) Fire Department got a SCBA upgrade of Scott Air-Pak X3s, which will be used by both Stamford’s paid and volunteer fire departments. The units were purchased from Shipman’s Fire Equipment Company. The new Scott SCBAs are state of the art, allowing command to track the status, breathing and air levels of the firefighters. Two of the niftiest features of the new Air-Pak X3s are the ability of command to be able to send an alert to any pack on the fireground that will set off an alert in the case of an evacuation, letting the firefighter know it’s time to get out. The other feature which stands out is the Pak Tracker, to be used by RIT teams. It will display the ID of a downed firefighter once the pass alarm sounds, and then works along the lines of a metal detector in that the closer the RIT team gets to the downed firefighter, the louder and more frequent the device will sound. Firefighters will also be allowed to better communicate with one another due to new voice emitters on the mask. The new packs were set to go into service between late December-early January. Each firefighter will need about two hours training on the unit. Forty old Scott Air-Pak 75 units will be donated to an all-volunteer fire department in Lima, Peru, the sister city of Stamford.

- Fire News photos by PuckStopperPhotography.com

Page 38, Fire News, January 2018

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Hartford Recruit Class Graduates

Hartford (CT) Recruit Class 23, graduated on October 27, 2017.

There were 36 members graduating and all were assigned to engine companies.

- Fire News photos by Patrick Dooley

New Pumper for Leominster

Chief of Department (Leominster, MA) Robert Sideleau II presents tools mounted to it and, after a week’s training by Pierce represena check to Bill O’Connor of Minuteman Fire & Rescue Apparatus, tatives, will go into service. The entire front-line companies now are Inc. for a new Pierce Arrow XT pumper delivered to Central running the same truck. The cost of the pumper was $577,000.

- Fire News photos by Scott LaPrade Firehouse on October 27, 2017. The new pump will have lights and

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Fire News, January 2018, Page 39

Shelton Hose Company 1

On October 28, 2017, members of Shelton (CT) Fire Department’s Echo Hose Company #1 assembled at Shelton Fire headquarters for a company photo followed by an aerial shoot of their fleet of fire apparatus at Veteran’s Memorial Park on Canal Street.

- Fire News photos by Keith Muratori

Page 40, Fire News, January 2018

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100 Year Anniversary of Engine 12

On November 16, 2017, the Bridgeport (CT) Fire Department celebrated the 100th anniversary of Engine 12 at their quarters located on Beechmont Avenue. Speakers included Chief of Department Rich Thode, Bridgeport Mayor Joe Ganim, Chief of Special

Services Division Rich Donofrio, Engine 12 Captain Scott Boris, and Ladder 6 Lieutenant Rob Novak. City Council members, members of the community, and several retired firefighters were also in attendance.

- Fire News photos by Keith Muratori

Flint Fire Prevention Open House On October 11, 2017, the Flint Fire Depatment held its open house at the station.

Attendees were treated to fire prevention education while enjoying pizza and soda provided by Papa Gino’s Pizza. Sparky the Fire Dog and Pluggie the Talking Robot Hydrant entertained the children. They also got to expend some energy in an inflatable fire truck bounce house, while firefighters taught live fire extinguisher training to the adults.

- Fire News photo by Ken Leger

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Fire News, January 2018, Page 41

11th New Hampshire Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service

The 11th New Hampshire Fallen Firefighters ceremony was held on September 30, 2017, at the New Hampshire Fire Academy Grounds in Concord (NH).

- Fire News photos by Liz Feitelberg

Page 42, Fire News, January 2018

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FDSOA’S SANDY DAVIS RAISED FF CANCER AWARENESS Sandy Davis, former chairman of the Fire Department Safety Officers Association passed away Friday, November 3, 2017, after battling colorectal cancer. Sandy was 62-years old. Davis served on the FDSOA Board of Directors for 12 years and was a popular speaker at conferences across the U.S. and Canada.

Davis began his fire service career with Shreveport (LA) Fire Department and served as safety officer until he retired after 26 years. He then joined the Louisiana Department of Homeland Security Emergency Management and served as Homeland Security Director for Caddo-Bossier for 12 years.

After being diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2013, Davis made it his mission to increase firefighter awareness to wear PPE at every incident. In 2015, Davis and John Phelan, a Shreveport firefighter, produced a fiveminute video in 2015 for firefighters about the importance of wearing their PPE “Every incident, every time.” In the video, Davis states, “The colostomy bag is my PPE now.” He added that many nights he would lie awake wondering if wearing turnout gear would have prevented his colon cancer.

“Sandy Davis was a great contributor to the FDSOA and we are all grateful to him,” said Rich Marinucci, executive director of the FDSOA. “Safety officers have become a more vital part of the fire service and Sandy’s messages on firefighter cancer were powerful.

Rest in peace.”

Michael Petroff, former FDSOA Chair, served on the board many years with Davis. “Sandy was a mentor and a friend. Even during his illness, after his term as chairman of the FDSOA, he assisted in the search and hiring of Director Rich Marinucci,” said Petroff. “Sandy always had a smile and a story to tell. Some of his stories could even be repeated in polite company. I know he was a devoted family man and a dedicated public servant. His Facebook post about wearing PPE speaks of his character and concern for others.”

A funeral service was held on November 7, 2017, in Shreveport, Louisiana.

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Fire News, January 2018, Page 43