Fire News, Southern New England November 2018

VOLUME 6, NO. 6

W W W .FIRENE WS .COM

Serving Fire, Rescue & EMS Heroes Since 1973 NOVEMBER 2018

See story on pages 26-28.

- Fire News photos by Scott LaPrade and Kevin White

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Fire News, November 2018, Page 3

In this issue...

Rescues at Hot Providence 4-Alarm Providence (RI) firefighters fought a stubborn four-alarm fire in 90-plusdegree weather on Elmwood Avenue.

See story on page 8

Success Hill Condo Fire The Stratford (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to Success Avenue for a structure fire.

See story on page 9

Three FFs Injured in Webster 3-Bagger Three firefighters were injured battling a stubborn three-alarm fire in a multi-family on Day Lane.

See story on page 11

Long Day in Waterbury Waterbury (CT) companies arrived to heavy fire showing from the rear porches of a Vermont Street home.

See story on page 15

Trailer Overturn in Sterling Sterling (MA) crews responded to multiple calls for a tractor trailer overturned on Route 12.

See story on page 20

Big Turn Out at Annual United Ride The Annual United Ride kicked off from Norwalk on September 9, 2018, this year.

See story on page 34

PLUS: Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 4 Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pages 23 & 24 Up Close & Personal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 25

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Page 4, Fire News, November 2018

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From the Editor’s Desk Dennis Whittam, Editor

Document What You Do! Several years ago, I attended a seminar that was given by one of the insurance companies that insure fire districts. The company did a reenactment of an actual fatal scenario that happened in a small department. In the end, the department was found at fault for the death of civilian. What was the deciding factor? The department could not provide paperwork proving that their trucks’ equipment was in operating order before the call. It was possible that the extrication pump needed to save someone worked fine before the call. However, with no documentation of any recent truck and tool maintenance, a jury blamed the department for the delay in patient removal from the vehicle because the hydraulic pump was previously damaged and there were no records that the pump worked before the call.

If you ask firefighters how often they do truck maintenance and equipment checks, you will get a variety of responses. Some departments check their equipment every day. In other departments, it is common to get different answers when maintenance and inspections were performed. Weekly inspections are commonplace in many departments. However, if the truck and equipment was used for a call, everything should be immediately checked for proper operation.

How does an officer know that the company’s equipment was inspected and is ready for action? It is called paperwork! When an inspection is performed, a written checklist should be followed. It is up to the members to actually follow the inspection list. Start saws, and thoroughly check all SCBAs. Do your radios work? Truck maintenance is not opening a compartment to see if a tool is in place.

Remove equipment and actually check its functionality. Simply put, make sure the tool works. Halligans, hooks and hand tools all should be looked at for any damage, cleanliness and proper markings.

I could go on and on about equipment checks. It is important that the responders take ownership of the tools of their trade, including their personal PPE. It is imperative that every inspection is documented. I can’t tell you how many times I found an issue with a piece of equipment when it was my time to do truck maintenance. With written and signed sheets, I was able to go back to the previous person who inspected the truck and point out any oversights.

Make sure your department has written Polices and Best Practices that members can easily access to review safety concerns for vehicles, use of SCBA, use of PPE along with other safety concerns. Many departments post

this information on their website in a “Members” section. Make sure members are constantly reminded to review their Best Practices.

To sum it up, don’t neglect your equipment.

It is the key to your survival. Know your equipment inside and out, so you will know when something is wrong. What is imperative for every inspection is documentation. Should something go wrong at a call because your equipment failed, you must be able to prove that it was recently inspected and worked as expected at the firehouse. Inspect and document your equipment frequently!

-Dennis

Page 6, Fire News, November 2018

Revere 5-Alarmer

Companies from Revere (MA) Fire and several surrounding cities worked hard to knock down a five-alarm-plus blaze on Franklin Avenue in Revere on September 16, 2018. First-due companies from Revere and Boston Engine 56 made a good push down the hallways on the top floor of the four-story garden apartment. Crews made an aggressive push, knocking down fire as they made their way down the hallway on the top floor. Unbeknownst to firefighters, the fire already had full possession of the cockloft just a few feet above them. As the crews continued to push and knock down several

CNG Truck Fire in New Haven A mechanic working on a garbage truck ignited a fire involving the truck in a repair bay in New Haven (CT) on August 15, 2018.

The mechanic suffered non-life-threatening injuries. Firefighters were able to keep the fire contained to the truck. Firefighters had to work quickly because the truck was CNG fueled. The fire was brought under control within a half hour.

- Fire News photo by Glenn Duda, CFPA

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rooms of fire, they were forced to pull out when the fire dropped down behind them. Meanwhile, other crews continued an aggressive and dangerous primary search and attacked other portions of the well-involved building. Boston Sparks Association A-10 and A11 fireground support/rehab companies were in full operation.

Multiple members were transported to the hospital for unconfirmed injuries.

- Fire News photos by Glenn S. Preston, Owen Carrigan, Rick Nohl and Bill Noonan

Page 8, Fire News, November 2018

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What Next?

Godzilla?

Glastonbury (CT) crews were toned out for a car fire at 0346 on September 24, 2018. Minutes later, the response was undated to a structure fire due to the car fire extending to a building. Two cars were involved — with the power line to the house falling across the cars and the house gas main catching fire and feeding the fire. Until all utilities could be shut down, members kept the fire in check.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

Cumberland Garage Fire Cumberland (RI) firefighters worked a fire in a singlestory wooden garage/storage unit on Abbott Street on August 18, 2018. Companies used a handline to bring the fire under control.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

Rescues at Hot Providence 4-Alarm Providence (RI) firefighters fought a stubborn four-alarm fire in 90-plus-degree weather on August 5, 2018, on Elmwood Avenue.

Several rescues were made over ladders before companies were forced to go defensive.

- Fire News photo by Tim Delaney

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Fire News, November 2018, Page 9

Success Hill Condo Fire

On August 29, 2018, the Stratford (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to Success Avenue for a structure fire. Units reported heavy fire showing from a two-story condominium complex. It didn’t take long for fire to take control of much of the second floor and send flames through the roof. Bridgeport responded on the second alarm. It was reported that several people had to jump from the second story before firefighters arrived. Four people, including one firefighter were injured. All injuries appeared to be minor. The whole incident occurred with the heat index climbing over 100. - Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com

Rawson St. Garage Fire Leicester firefighters were called to Rawson Street for a report of a garage on fire. Companies had smoke and fire showing on arrival from the metal clad 1 story garage. Tankers from surrounding towns were called in as Engine 2 worked to secure a water supply down the street at the bridge.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

Page 10, Fire News, November 2018

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Commercial Building Totaled in Royalston

A fire destroyed Pete and Henry’s Restaurant on Main Street in Royalston (MA) on August 21, 2018. The building was constructed in the 1800s and was part of a former river-side mill. It housed many businesses, from a blacksmith shop all the way up to this eatery. It had a common cockloft where much of the building had add ons. Fire Chief Keith R. Newton said firefighters initially made good progress, but were driven back by the flames and dense smoke coming from the kitchen of the restaurant. Fire got into the ceiling and spread to the rest of the building, forcing firefighters to evacu-

ate and use aerial trucks to pour water into the structure. The fire destroyed most of the building; a portion left standing when the last hotspots were extinguished was demolished as a safety precaution, Chief Newton said. Firefighters from Athol, Templeton, Winchendon, Phillipston (all MA) and Richmond (NH) responded.

Woods (MA) Ambulance provided medical call coverage in town, and firefighters from Troy (NH) covered. Chief Newton said the cause of the fire was under investigation.

- Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade

Cumberland Truck Fire Extends Cumberland (RI) crews responded to a truck fire with extension to apartment building.

- Fire News photo by David CinqMars

And ‌ Labor Day Starts

Bloomfield (CT) firefighters welcomed Labor Day weekend with reports of a detached garage fire in the Blue Hills district of town. Upon arrival, crews were greeted with heavy smoke and fire pushing from a single-bay garage. Crews quickly brought the fire under control with help from Bloomfield Center and Windsor.

- Fire News photo by Stephen Hess

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Fire News, November 2018, Page 11

Waterbury Fire On September 27, 2018, Waterbury (CT) firefighters responded to West Grove Street for heavy fire showing from a three-story wood frame dwelling. It took about an hour to knock the fire down.

- Fire News photo by Rick Kulmann

Three FFs Injured in Webster 3-Bagger Three firefighters were injured in Webster (MA) on September 6, 2018, battling a stubborn, smoky three-alarm fire — probably started by a lightning strike — in a multiple family dwelling on Day Lane. Upon arrival, heavy smoke could be seen emanating from the second floor and roof of the building. An initial stretch was made into the structure, but the fire was difficult to find due to smoke and many void spaces, allowing the fire to quickly spread through the building. A ladder crew from Dudley, which responded on the second alarm, promptly vented the roof. It was then that Webster Fire Chief Brian Hickey saw how quickly and how far the fire had spread. Fire began dropping down into rooms on the second floor, as a chimney collapsed landing on an interior stairway, nearly striking several firefighters. Crews were ordered to withdraw, and three aerial master streams went to work. After the aerial master streams, and during mop-up, the three firefighters were injured. Two jakes were treated on scene for dehydration and exhaustion and trans-

ported. The third was injured descending a staircase when he fell through the stairs up to his chest. A Mayday was declared, which was promptly answered by the RIT. He exited on his own, and was transported to the hospital for evaluation. The house was considered a total loss. Mutual aid came from Dudley, Oxford, Charlton, Southbridge, Sutton, and Quinebaug.

- Fire News photo by Alan Brackett

N. Smithfield Junkyard Fire A fire, possibly sparked by a lightning strike, started a fire in an automobile junkyard in North Smithfield (RI) on Iron Mill Hill Road, which involved some 50 vehicles. Water supply was established by drafting from a nearby pond. Command held the fire to a working fire assignment.

- Fire News photos by Ken LaBelle

Page 12, Fire News, November 2018

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Middleboro Scrap Yard Fire

Recently, the Middleboro (MA) Fire Department responded to a fire at Zion’s Auto Salvage on Bedford Street (Route 18). Companies arrived to find heavy fire in a pile of scrap metal near the rear of the property.

Middleboro Tower-1, a Bridgewater engine company, Massachusetts Department of Fire Service’s Rehab Unit and a Lakeville engine also responded. Due to companies tying into a hydrant on either side of Route 18, the road was shut down. Multiple deck guns, handlines and a ladder pipe were all utilized to knock down the heavy fire. Heavy equipment operators pulled the large pile apart so crews could get water on the deep-seated fire. Crews knocked down the heavy fire within an hour.

- Fire News photo by Pat Travers

Shelton House Fire On September 9, 2018, the Shelton (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to Long Hill Avenue for a house fire. First-in companies found heavy fire showing from a raised ranch that was set back quite a distance from Long Hill Avenue. The occupant was found safe outside the structure and members quickly knocked down the fire. There were no reported injuries and the fire was under investigation.

- Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com

Lexington 3-Alarmer Lexington (MA) crews responded to a three-alarm fire on Wheeler Road in Lexington on September 14, 2018.

- Fire News photo by Owen Carrigan

Agawam Basement Fire Agawam (MA) firefighters made a quick knockdown of a small basement fire on September 18, 2018, in Agawam.

- Fire News photo by John DeForest

Page 14, Fire News, November 2018

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Worcester 2-Alarmer

Vernon MultiAlarm Fire

On June 5, 2018, Worcester (MA) firefighters battled a stubborn two-alarm fire on Oberlin Street. While companies were making an aggressive attack on exterior, members from Worcester EMS worked to extricate a victim from the front porch of the wood frame dwelling.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

Vernon (CT) firefighters responded to a multi-alarm fire just after midnight on September 25, 2018, on Hartford Turnpike Road.

- Fire News photos by John DeForest and Patrick Dooley

Lakeside House Fire in Lebanon Lebanon (CT) crews, along with many mutual aid units, handled a fully involved house fire on Deepwood Drive on July 26, 2018.

Limited access to the lake-side home, and a large propane tank burning in the rear, complicated the fight. The tank was allowed to burn off before extinguishment was completed.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

Early Morning House Fire in East Bridgewater Around 0230 on August 24, 2018, the East Bridgewater (CT) Fire Department responded to Fieldcrest Landing for a house fire. Companies arrived to find heavy fire conditions in the rear of a two-story occupied dwelling. Mutual aid came from Bridgewater, Whitman and West Bridgewater with Halifax covering. The first arriving engine company knocked down the heavy fire conditions. The second arriving engine secured a water supply, as mutual aid companies arrived and stretched additional lines. All occupants were reported out when firefighters arrived on the scene. One occupant was evaluated at the scene but was not transported. The fire was not considered to be suspicious.

- Fire News photo by Pat Travers

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Stamford Car Fire

Stamford (CT) firefighters dealt with a stubborn car fire on Prince Place on August 8, 2018. First arriving units reported a fully involved car fire with no immediate danger to a nearby structure.

A quick knockdown was made but the fire was still stubbornly burning in sections of the car. Foam was then brought out to knock down the last bit of fire.

- Fire News photo by Jon Tenca

Propane Fire Extends On July 29, 2018, Manchester (CT) companies arrived at a gas station/convenience store on Middle Turnpike West. A propane tank in the rear was venting fire which extended into the building.

A knock down of the fire inside was quick, with the propane tank allowed to burn off.

- Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

Fire News, November 2018, Page 15

Long Day in Waterbury

On August 5, 2018, Waterbury (CT) companies arrived to heavy fire showing from the rear porches of a Vermont Street home, which would also involve the attic of the B exposure, the multi-bay garage and a corner of the C exposure, as well as threaten an occupied multiple dwelling on the D exposure. A request for two additional engines was made as all hands were working. The exposures were knocked down quickly but, due to structural collapses, companies were on the scene for over four hours working the main fire building. They had to return to the scene for rekindles as it was impossible to get at the debris pile in the rear due to the collapse issues.

- Fire News photo by Kevin Czarzasty

Page 16, Fire News, November 2018

Hartford 2-Alarmer

The Hartford (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to a structure fire on Wilson Street on September 10, 2018. Firefighters found a fire in the basement and first floor of a three-story brick apartment building. A second alarm was sounded and, after a short time, the fire was placed under control. Companies remained on scene for several hours overhauling and cleaning up.

- Fire News photo by Jim Peruta, CFPA

Coventry Shop Fire

On a very foggy July 27, 2018, a passerby reported a Main Street pizza shop on fire in Coventry (CT). Members arrived to heavy fire out the rear of the building. Numerous mutual aid units assisted with tankers and manpower. - Fire News photo by Patrick Dooley

2 Displaced in Fall River Fire

On September 22, 2018, the Fall River (MA) Fire Department responded to a still alarm in a 1-1/2 story, wood frame, single-family residence that drove an elderly couple from their home. Heavy fire was confined to the attic and roof but the home sustained heavy smoke and water damage. - Fire News photo by Ken Leger

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Broad Brook Barn Blaze

The Broad Brook (CT) Fire Department, along with seven other departments, responded to a fully involved barn fire on August 18, 2018, on Barber Hill Road. - Fire News photo by John DeForest

Empty House Goes in Dudley

Dudley (MA) firefighters responded to a fire in an uninhabited house on West Dudley Road early on August 13, 2018. Firefighters arrived to heavy fire involving the attic space and the roofline of the dwelling, with little fire encountered in the living space.

Firefighters were hampered by no hydrants in the very rural and remote section of town. Mutual aid came from the Southbridge, Webster and Douglas fire departments, as well as Quinebaug (CT).

The fire was brought under control in less than an hour.

- Fire News photo by Dudley FD

Lancaster Car Fire

Lancaster (MA) firefighters responded to a car fire at Route 2, exit 35 on September 3, 2018.

- Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade

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Fire News, November 2018, Page 17

Pittsfield 2-Alarmer

Pittsfield (MA) Fire Local 2647 responded to a two-alarm fire in a duplex recently.

- Fire News photo by Devon Whalen

Marlborough Handles OD

The Marlborough (MA) Fire Department, as well as members from the state hazmat team, responded for an apparent drug overdose on Parkview Lane on September 12, 2018. One patient was transported to an area hospital.

- Fire News photo by Jim Fortin

Great Stop by Woodstock Firefighters On September 17, 2018, Woodstock (CT) firefighters received an alarm of a bedroom fire in a two-story, single-family dwelling on Green Road in Woodstock. The Town of Woodstock is divided up into three fire districts consisting of the Muddy B ro o k F i re D e p a r t m e n t , t h e Woodstock Volunteer Firefighters, and the Bungay Fire Brigade.

All three responded to the call.

Firefighters found smoke showing from the basement. A line was stretched to a basement entry door on the “B� side, and heavy fire was encountered. Firefighters quickly brought the fire under control as additional personnel stretched more lines above the fire, as well as getting the water supply established. A tanker shuttle supplied water to the rural scene from a remote fill site about a mile away. Mutual aid came from Dudley, Webster, Southbridge and Quinebaug. A female self-extricated prior to the arrival of the fire crews and was treated by members of the Woodstock Volunteers Ambulance, then transported to a local hospital. The cause of the early afternoon fire was under investigation by Woodstock Fire Marshal Richard Baron.

- Fire News photo by Alan Brackett

Norwich Car Fire

Firefighters from the Yantic District of Norwich (CT) arrived at one of the local gas/convenience stores recently to knock down a well involved automobile fire.

- Fire News photo by Joe Shefer

Quick Work in Windsor Locks

On the afternoon of September 3, 2018, Windsor Locks (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to the corner of School Street and Oates Lane for a reported structure fire. Crews were able to quickly put the fire out. Bradley International Airport Fire Department was called for RIT and East Windsor Ambulance provided medical standby.

- Fire News photo by Coral Ruggiero

1 Hurt in West Haven Blaze On September 15, 2018, West Haven (CT) firefighters responded to Richards Street for an occupied dwelling fire.

Upon arrival they found a 11/2 story wood frame with heavy smoke showing.

Occupants were also advising them that a blind man was trapped in the basement. A second alarm was transmitted as companies went to work.

Five lines were stretched and operated as trucks opened up and conducted primary searches. One male victim was found in the basement and removed to the hospital in serious condition. The fire extended to the first floor before being brought under control in about 45 minutes. The cause of the fire was unknown and under investigation. Several firefighters were treated for minor injuries and released.

- Fire News photo by Glenn Duda, CFPA

Page 20, Fire News, November 2018

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Trailer Overturn in Sterling

At approximately 0455, Sterling (MA) Emergency Dispatchers and Massachusetts State Police began receiving multiple calls reporting a tractor trailer overturned on Route 12, at the I-190 North exit 6 off-ramp. Sterling Fire Department Engine 5, Rescue 1 and Ambulance 2 responded with Deputy Chief David Day in command. Sterling Police found a tractor trailer on its side with the driver partially ejected and trapped. Personnel worked for nearly 30 minutes to free the driver using a combination of airbags and cribbing. During the extrication, Sterling Paramedics worked to stabilize the driver, who was transported to UMass Medical Center in Worcester with serious injuries. Crews from Ricky’s Towing and Mass Highway worked to upright the truck, forcing the closure of Route 12.

- Fire News photos by Tina Gianos, story by Jamieson Shea

Haddam MVA On July 29, 2018, the Haddam (CT) Fire Company was dispatched to an MVA in which the driver lost control of his vehicle, struck a utility pole and two trees. Live power lines fell atop the vehicle and firefighters waited until crews from Eversource arrived before removing the patient from the vehicle through the passenger-side door. He was transported to Middlesex Hospital via Haddam Volunteer Ambulance Service.

- Fire News photo by Olivia Drake

Andover Motorcycle Crash Andover (MA) Firefighters on scene of a motorcycle accident on Interstate 93 on Sept 9, 2018.

- Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade

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Fatality, Injuries at Hanson Plane Crash

On the afternoon of August 24, 2018, the Hanson (MA) Fire Department responded to a plane crash near Cranland Airport.

Deputy Fire Chief Rob O’Brien, reported the small plane had crashed into the water at the south end of the runway and there were two victims heavily entrapped. Mutual aid ambulances, two MedFlight helicopters and the Plymouth County Technical Rescue Dive Team were requested. Firefighters and police officers worked feverishly to extricate the two victims, one reportedly conscious, the other unconscious. The first victim extricated was carried to a Whitman ambulance. Both victims were then flown to separate Boston hospitals. Unfortunately, the pilot, was later pronounced dead. The passenger of the plane, the pilot’s brother, suffered severe injuries. The two brothers were flying that day to scatter the ashes of their father who passed away earlier this year. The pilot was a seasoned Blackhawk helicopter pilot with the Army National Guard. He was home on leave from active duty in Kosovo due to the death of his father.

- Fire News photo by Pat Travers

Fire News, November 2018, Page 21

Indian Well Water Rescue

At approximately 1800 on August 1, 2018, the Shelton (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to Indian Well State Park for a possible drowning near the Indian Well waterfall. Reports said that witnesses performed CPR and revived a 35-year-old man who had been swimming in the prohibited area. Shelton firefighters, police and EMS quickly deployed ropes and a Stoke’s basket to remove the man. An LZ was also set up for LifeStar to transport the patient to Yale New Haven Hospital. He was evaluated overnight and was then fined by EnCon Police for violating the ‘No Swimming’ rules of that area.

- Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com

Page 22, Fire News, November 2018

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MA Tornado Response On August 4, 2018, Firefighters from Webster and Dudley (MA) responded to their respective towns after a tornado ripped through parts of their towns.

Crews had to deal with roof collapses as well as large trees down and other major damage along the route of the tornado.

- Fire News photo by Jon Tenca

Meriden Dog Rescue On August 18, 2018, South Kensington (CT) and Meriden (CT) firefighters rescued a dog from the hillside near Hubbard Park. The 80-pound dog had a possible broken leg and had to be brought down with a Stoke’s basket. The dog, named Chewy, seemed in good condition after the 1-1/2 hour rescue operation.

- Fire News photo by Joe Marino

Car Into Water for Spencer On September 14, 2018 Spencer firefighters were called for a report of a car into the water and that it was occupied. On arrival it was learned the occupants were rescued by someone fishing on the lake in his boat. The Fire District 7 dive team was called in to help recover the automobile.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

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Fire News, November 2018, Page 23

Training

Haddam Water Pumping Drill

During their weekly Monday-night drill on July 16, 2018, members of Haddam (CT) Volunteer Fire Company practiced water pumping and handline operations at Eagles Landing State Park.

Members used a 2-1/2 and 1-3/4 inch hose lines and a smooth bore and combination nozzle.

- Fire News photo by Olivia Drake

Extrication Training in Worcester

July 16, 2018, Worcester (MA) firefighters were invited to Early’s on Park Avenue's towing lot for some vehicle training. This training helped the fire department work on extrication techniques.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

Page 24, Fire News, November 2018

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Training

Forcible Entry Training

Paratech at Worcester Training

Walpole (MA) firefighters trained on forcible entry techniques on September 6, 2018, in a class offered by P.L. Vulcan Fire Training Concepts LLC. - Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle

Recently, the Paratech equipment company came to Worcester Fire Department to demonstrate their equipment and provide hands-on training.

- Fire News photo by Paul Shea

MCI Drill in Windsor Locks

Firefighters from the Bradley Field (CT) Fire Department extinguished a simulated aircraft fire during an MCI drill held in Windsor Locks (CT) on September 19, 2018. Firefighters from several surrounding communities, who are a part of the Bradley Airport Mutual Aid Plan, also participated in the day-long event.

- Fire News photos by Doc Johnson

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Fire News, November 2018, Page 25

Up Close & Personal

Cumberland (RI) firefighters recently responded to a two-alarm fire.

- Fire News photo by David CinqMars

After nearly 35 years, Holbrook (MA) Fire Lieutenant Don Austin (center) plans on retiring. Posed here with the rest of Group-3 at a recent working fire, just days before his retirement (left to right): Firefighters Jared Murphy, John Curley, Jason Murphy and Kevin O’Hara.

- Fire News photo by Pat Travers

Hampden (MA) day crew in front of Engine 1, a 2012 KME Panther. (Left to right): Firefighters Brett Hebert, Josh Sterling and Meaghan Rogers.

- Fire News photo by John DeForest

Members from a Bridgeport engine company arrive on scene as mutual aid at a recent multiple alarm condominium fire in Stratford (CT) on August 29, 2018.

- Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com

The Hartford (CT) Fire Department was dispatched to a reported structure fire on Forest Street on August 20, 2018.

- Fire News photo By Jim Peruta, CFPA

Members of Lynn (MA) Fire take a break, after working at a fivealarm fire on Franklin Avenue in Revere on September 16, 2018.

- Fire News photo by Glenn S. Preston

Fire News contributor Paul LaRochelle, Jr., is also a Lieutenant on the Worcester Fire Department’s Rescue 1.

- Fire News photo by Ken LaBelle Lawrence (MA) Firefighters Swarbrick of Ladder 4 and Lane of Engine 7, and Lieutenant Flynn of Engine 6.

Among the three there are 80 years of experience.

- Fire News photo by Scott LaPrade

Page 26, Fire News, November 2018

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Cover Story

Explosions, Fires Rock Lawren Fire News Contributor Kevin White Covers the Story...

Thursday afternoon, September 13, 2018, was seemingly shaping up to be a normal, run-of-the-mill afternoon. People out walking, traffic starting to get heavier for the start of the afternoon commute. It was 1619 hours when I looked out my window, and saw Andover (MA) fire crews pass by my house, as they do several times a day. I didn’t think much of it. They were heading to Grassfields Restaurant on North Main Street for a reported kitchen fire. It was about that moment I started receiving multiple messages asking if I was listening to Lawrence Fire. “They’re receiving multiple calls for basement fires. Do you know anything?” It didn’t take long to realize this was a very serious incident, but no one would be able to predict its magnitude.

As I headed for Lawrence, with the buff radio channels blasting, I started hearing reports of multiple fires in Lawrence, Andover and North Andover. I didn’t know where to go until I heard Lawrence Fire radio say they had reports of a house explosion with entrapment on Chickering Street. I was five minutes away. As I pulled up, the street was hazy with a smell of natural gas. Walking in you could see a once 1-1/2 story home had been leveled from a major explosion. There was glass and shards of wood out in the street and a large portion of the chimney had fallen onto the driver’s side of an SUV in the driveway. As firefighters, police and EMS worked feverishly on top of the car, I realized there was a young man trapped in it. The chimney wouldn’t budge, not even with firefighters using the jaws of life. Additional EMS began arriving to tend to other parties injured in the blast as well as on the SUV extrication. After 10 or 15 minutes, crews were able to free the victim, albeit with CPR in progress, and he was transported to the Lawrence General Hospital. I was told EMS crews were able to regain a pulse, but found out later that the man didn’t make it, dying at a Boston hospital.

As I left, my cell phone rang with a family member alerting me to an evacuation order for Andover and that gas had to be shut off at the meter.

I had to leave the city in the midst of a catastrophic incident unfolding in order to protect my own home.

As I arrived home and shut the gas off, I looked north towards Lawrence and could see multiple columns of smoke. Andover, North Andover and Lawrence had fires going, people were visibly shaking outside their homes and traffic was at a near standstill as people evacuated.

I left my house and headed back north to Lawrence, but honestly didn’t know where to go.

I made it back into South Lawrence and headed toward a reported house fire on Jefferson Street. When I arrived, fire was visible from the area of the front door of a 1-1/2 story single family home. There were police officers at either end of the street but fire personnel hadn’t arrived.

They were out at other incidents and mutual aid was still making its way into the city. One officer said to me, “That’s one of my officer’s home!”

The fire started to consume the home with thicker, heavier smoke pushing from the attic. The first companies to arrive were the Lowell and Haverhill towers but an engine was still a few minutes away. Lowell Engine 3 arrived shortly after, along with a Salem (NH) tower.

Firefighters ran multiple lines with a concentration on exposures as the main fire building was near fully involved, but were able to knock the heaviest fire down within 30 minutes. As it turned out, the home did belong to a Lawrence police officer, who was on duty at the time. He was made aware of the fire by family and, knowing they were safely out of the house, went right back to work.

As I left Jefferson Street, I had no idea what was still active or being reported. As I drove toward Broadway I saw a column of smoke and fol-

Chickering Street

- Fire News photos by Kevin White

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ce, Andover and North Andover and Then Finds Out He is Part of the Story lowed it to what was an already an active firefight on Brookfield Street.

Fire had traveled through the walls of a two-family, 2-1/2 story dwelling.

Companies from Lawrence, West Newbury, Dracut, Methuen and Boston (among others) worked side-by-side to extinguish the fire as the sound of sirens filled the air from mutual aid units responding to other calls for help. It was mostly knocked down at this point with companies transitioning from a defensive attack to an offensive interior attack. The guys were tired but began the tedious job of opening up walls and ceilings to chase hot spots.

Now night, I left the scene and met up with a friend and fellow fire photographer and we waited for any additional incidents.

Not only had the gas been shut off in the area, but the power had to be

cut to all of South Lawrence and good portions of both Andover and North Andover. Businesses were closed, houses were in the dark and the only light was from portable lighting plants brought into major intersections. The sound of Massachusetts State Police helicopters filled the air and the sight of state and local police from throughout the region patrolling the streets was a very eerie feeling. It was like buffing in Detroit!

I eventually returned home just before midnight and had the chance to digest what happened in these communities. It was chaos, but it was becoming organized chaos. Why? Because each community has professional public safety personnel who went to work nearly seamlessly. I’m certain it was tense at times not knowing what was next. Dispatchers were continued on next page

Jefferson Street

- Fire News photos by Kevin White, Scott LaPrade, and Rick Nohl

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Explosions, Fires Rock Lawrence, Andover and North Andover continued from previous page receiving calls in the hundreds, and were tasked with prioritizing the incidents. Fire crews were being waved down by homeowners reporting their house on fire. All three communities required resources at the same time, testing the mutual aid system. But through it all, those dispatchers got help to every call. The local fire crews and their mutual aid partners made it to each of those call and the chief and officers in each community had a handle on what was going on, keeping a sense of calm and organization throughout the incident.

Firefighters, police officers, EMS, support vehicles from the state, rehab units and others from over 70 cities from throughout Massachusetts and New Hampshire staged and were ready to go help wherever they were needed inside the three affected communities. Task forces of personnel stayed at the ready throughout the weekend to help local authorities deal with residual effects of the incident as the region begins what will be a large and time-consuming effort to restore utilities to residents.

As this is written, November 19 was set as the target date to replace nearly 50 miles of damaged gas piping. With the colder months approaching, it's my hope that the target date becomes a reality and everyone can soon return to “normal life”.

I’m not only proud of what I saw from our area first responders but I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the many area fire photographers who were right there documenting this incident as it unfolded. We stood side by side with the firefighters and in some cases put the cameras down and dug in to help when manpower was stretched thin. I’m certain that most of the more major incidents were covered by somebody who had a camera. It’s something we all take seriously and it’s a passion of ours to get the stories of our local heroes out there for the public to see. This will be an experience I believe we will all remember for the rest of our lives.

I know I will.

Wedgewood Road

Brookfield Street

- Fire News photo by Rick Nohl

- Fire News photos by Kevin White

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Kensington 9-11 Ceremony On September 11, 2018, members of the Kensington (CT) Fire Department led by Chief Jeff Pager and retired-Chief Mark Lewandowski dedicated a 9-11 memorial that include three beams from the World Trade Center. A large turnout of residents and firefighters were on hand for the ceremony.

- Fire News photo by Joe Marino

RI Antique Apparatus Show On September 9, 2018, the Rhode Island Antique Fire Apparatus Society held their annual antique fire truck show at Johnston (RI) War Memorial Park. Dozens of restored antique trucks were on display. Several engines drafted from the pond to feed apparatus and a chain saw artist created two beautiful pieces that were raffled off to lucky winners.

- Fire News photo by Ken Leger

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Gaelic Fire Brigade Fundraiser

On August 15, 2018, the Greater Boston Gaelic Fire Brigade hosted their annual fundraiser on the Provincetown II cruise ship, which took hundreds of guests through Boston Harbor — escorted by Boston Marine 1, the John S. Darnel — for three hours and featured a buffet, band, and pipe and drum music with the brigade member’s playing. (Left): Photog Glen Preston’s wife Sonneva aboard the Provincetown II. - Fire News photos by Glenn S. Preston

Greater Boston Pipe & Drums Members of the Greater Boston Fire Brigade (pipes and drums), play for the public in Boston’s Seaport District.

- Fire News photo by Glenn S. Preston

Fall River Remembers 9-11

On September 11, 2018, members of Bristol County public safety agencies gathered at Battleship Cove in Fall River (MA), to remember the victims of the terrorist attack on America. - Fire News photos by Ken Leger

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135th Connecticut State Firefighter’s Convention

Chiefs and delegates from New London County greeted Lieutenant Governor Nancy Wyman at the 135th Connecticut State Firefighter’s Convention held from September 14 to 16, 2018.

- Fire News photos by Joe Shefer

The Avon Volunteer Fire Department Color Guard preparing for the opening ceremony at the convention.

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Firefighter Visits New London

The retired FDNY fireboat Firefighter spent September 15 and 16, 2018, in New London (CT), taking part in the Connecticut Maritime Festival. The boat was built in 1938 and served New York City for 70 years. In 2001 the boat pumped water to Ground Zero after the attacks on the World Trade Center. Firefighter is now a floating museum home ported in Greenport, New York.

- Fire News photos by Joe Marino

CT Firefighters Memorial Service

On September 30, 2018, many gathered at the Connecticut Fire Academy for the 16th Annual Connecticut State Firefighters Memorial Service. Thankfully, there were no new names to add to the memorial this year. Dignitaries included Connecticut Governor Dannel P. Malloy; Connecticut Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman; Peter Carozza, President of the Uniformed Professional Fire Fighters

Association of Connecticut; and Dr. Dora Schriro, Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection. The Connecticut Statewide Honor Guard presented the colors, placed wreaths, and assisted with many other functions. The event was organized by the Connecticut State Firefighters Association.

- Fire News photos by Coral Ruggiero

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MOH Winner Honored Posthumously

On September 30, 2018, the town of Windsor Locks (CT) posthumously honored Medal of Honor recipient and former Windsor Locks resident Master Sergeant John Chapman. The Windsor Locks Fire Department took part in the procession and displaying the flag from its ladder truck.

Chapman was honored with the dedication of a memorial in front of Memorial Hall on Main Street and a ceremony featuring a flyover of C-130s from the 103rd Airlift Wing, an Army Blackhawk helicopter, and five members of Chapman’s 24th Special Tactics Squadron arriving via parachute.

In attendance were, MSgt Chapman’s mother and sister, Windsor Locks First Selectman Chris Kervick, Governor Dannel P. Malloy, State Representative Scott Storms, U.S. Congressman John B. Larson and Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman.

- Fire News photos by Coral Ruggiero

CT Fire Photographers Assoc. Wins Media Award “We are proud to announce that we have won the 2018 International Fire Buff Associates - IFBA Electronic Media Award. This award recognizes our efforts to promote the club as well as our members through our website and across social media. This is one of the major honors in the fire photographers’ community and we thank the IFBA for choosing the Connecticut Fire Photographers Association.”

- Submitted by Glenn Duda

Stamford 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony On September 11, 2018, the Stamford (CT) Fire Department held their annual 9/11 remembrance ceremony to honor those lost on September 11, 2001. Members from Stamford, as well as from other departments in the area, gathered with citizens to pay tribute to those lost.

- Fire News photos by Bill Tenca

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Big Turn Out at Annual United Ride

The Annual United Ride kicked off from Norwalk on September 9, Seaside Park in Bridgeport. Over 2,000 motorcycles joined the ride.

2018, this year. This is the state’s largest 9/11 tribute and starts in A cooler, overcast morning did not stop the riders from coming out Norwalk and winds its way around southern Connecticut, ending at for this year’s event. - Fire News photo by FireGroundImages.com

Wayland Firefighter Receives Fire & Life Safety Educator of the Year Award The 24th annual Fire and Life Safety Education Conference took place September 25-26, 2018, at the Southbridge Hotel and Conference Center. This year’s Managing the Message, was a challenge to think about the safety messages fire and injury professionals deliver and how to do so more effectively Over 200 firefighter-educators, classroom teachers, elder service workers and injury prevention professionals gathered for workshops on teaching fire, life safety and injury prevention to all segments of the community, from pre-school children to senior citizens.

The 2018 Fire and Life Safety Educator of the Year Award was presented on September 26 to Wayland Firefighter Todd Winner for a 16-year career focused on community risk reduction (CRR) before the term was coined.

Winner began his career with the Wayland Fire Department in 2002 as a Firefighter/EMT, and within a year began working with Student Awareness of Fire Education (SAFE). He

became coordinator in 2013, and his efforts have built a reputable, effective program. In addition to teaching young students, Todd resurrected a high school internship program, of which he was the first intern in 1998-1999. The 16-week program focuses on skills and hands-

on training from Essentials of Firefighting, Fourth Edition. Winner also developed a program for seniors that provides them with the support and education to remain safely in their homes for as long as possible. Winner has successfully built relationships around town

which allow him to reach more residents with safety messages. He works with the Recreation Department and takes part in their Summer Adventure camp for children in grades kindergarten to fifth. Over time, Wayland has experienced a drop in the frequency and severity of fire incidents which may be directly attributed to the SAFE and Senior SAFE programs. FF Winner has clearly had a direct impact on the safety of the community. In the spring of 2017, a young girl from Wayland received a Young Hero award for actions she took when she smelled smoke in her home early one morning. She had been educated by Winner.

The other remarkable nominees recognized for their efforts were: Loren Davine, Executive Director of the NoFires Program; Firefighters Mary Reilly and Kirsten Gebauer, Lanesborough Fire Department; Lieutenant Laurence Fahey, Middleborough Fire Department; and Inspector Jeffrey Medeiros, New Bedford Fire Department.

- Submitted by Jennifer Mieth

Easton (CT) Active Shooter Symposium Public Safety Secretary Daniel Bennett, Undersecretary Patrick McMurray, and State Fire Marshal Peter Ostroskey, in conjunction with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), hosted the second of three one-day symposiums for school officials, fire, EMS, and law enforcement professionals to learn more about establishing a proactive, integrated active shooter/hostile event response (ASHER) strategy for their school districts.

In May, the NFPA released NFPA 3000TM (PS), Standard for an Active Shooter / Hostile Event Response (ASHER) Program. Representatives from a wide variety of disciplines developed this first-

are increasingly faced with active shooter or other hostile events. They need a unified, proactive approach to address these incidents.

NFPA 3000, the first standard around active shooter events, provides comprehensive guidance to help communities, prepare, respond and recover” said NFPA President and CEO Jim Pauley.

“Schools, fire and law enforcement officials have a long history of collaboration on keeping our children safe whether it is fire prevention, school bomb threats, or personal safety. We are building on that foundation of teamJosephine Grace, on December 14, 2012, in the work to face this next major threat in emergency planning,” said State Fire Marshal Peter Sandy Hook School shooting in Connecticut.

“The unfortunate reality is that communities J. Ostroskey. - Submitted by Jennifer Mieth of-its-kind standard.

The keynote speaker was Michele Gay, a mother, and one of the founders of Safe and Sound Schools who lost her daughter,

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EDITORIAL CHANGES PREPARE FIREHOUSE FOR THE FUTURE

Firehouse is pleased to announce the appointment of Peter Matthews to conference director and acting editor-in-chief of Firehouse, and the promotion of Janelle Foskett to editorial director of Firehouse Magazine and Firehouse.com.

“The positive response to these moves, both internally at Firehouse, and among our many speakers, contributors and instructors, has been incredible,” said Greg Toritto, vice president/group publisher, public safety, Endeavor Business Media. “Both Peter and Janelle possess the necessary tools and leadership skills to ensure Firehouse’s continued growth and success, and to accomplish its mission to best serve our audience, customers, and partners. The fire service has always been about teamwork, and we are excited to name two true team players to these important Firehouse posts.”

Matthews started with Firehouse in 1999 and has served in multiple leadership and management roles throughout his career, making him truly ‘homegrown’ to the Firehouse brand. He has served as the executive editor and editor-in-chief of Firehouse.com, leading a team responsible for Firehouse’s 365-day-a-year digital operation providing news and education to the fire service community. Matthews has also been responsible for Firehouse’s events portfolio, supporting conference development, association partnerships and working with exhibitors to help them with their product and public relations efforts. In addition to his roles at Firehouse, Matthews has worked as a photo editor and photographer at the New York Post.

Matthews was introduced to the fire service by his father, a 59year volunteer firefighter. He volunteered with fire departments in New York and Maryland, holding the rank of lieutenant, and served as photographer for the St. Paul (MN) Fire Department.

Foskett joined the Firehouse team as executive editor in 2015, running the print operations for Firehouse Magazine, including special projects and custom supplements, and working closely with the web team and conference group to build the Firehouse brand. Prior to joining the Firehouse team, Foskett worked in fire service publishing for nearly a decade, managing the print and web operations at FireRescue magazine. She has nearly 20 years of experience in publishing and communications, and has worked as a reporter, writer, communications and social media specialist, and editor.

Matthews and Foskett have been responsible for the day-to-day editorial operations of Firehouse’s publishing franchise for several years. They will continue to lead a team that truly understands that its responsibility to serve our readers, the industry, and our contributors, is first and foremost.

Matthews and Foskett will assume their new roles immediately. Timothy E. Sendelbach, who had served as Firehouse’s editor-in-chief and conference director, has resigned. Firehouse would like to thank Tim for his contributions as a member of the Firehouse team, and wish him luck in his future endeavors.

In addition to the leadership changes above, Firehouse has also announced the following appointments and promotions: Steven Shaw has been promoted to senior editor, Firehouse.

Steven will take on an expanded role focused on magazine production and special projects.

John Kosik has been named senior editor, Firehouse. In addition to his prior responsibilities as an associate editor, John will oversee the day-to-day operations for Firehouse.com.

Associate editor Ed Ballam’s role will expand to include additional digital and print assignments, as well as special projects.

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