Local 4260 News

Carbon Monoxide forces evacuation of office building

2011-10-31T17:22:00.000-04:00

On October 31, 2011 at 0753 hours the Milford Fire Department Emergency Dispatch Center received a 911 telephone call reporting a smell of gas inside of 326 West Main Street. A full assignment was dispatched (3 Engines, 1 Ladder Company and 1 Rescue Company along with a shift commander) and responded to the location.

Upon arrival and investigation, high levels on Carbon Monoxide were found using detection equipment. Levels close to 500 ppm were detected in the basement area and levels near 300 ppm were found on the upper floors. The building was quickly evacuated and heating equipment was shut off while ventilation fans were placed into operation.

Representatives from the Southern Connecticut Gas Company traced the source to the heating system and were working with building maintenance personnel to correct the problem.

Paramedics from the Milford Fire Department medically evaluated several occupants of the building but no one was transported to the hospital.

Fire Department spokesman, Capt. Chris Zak reminded everyone, "As the colder temperatures are upon us, we need to remember that all buildings need to have working smoke detectors as well as working carbon monoxide detectors. Carbon Monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas that is extremely dangerous and without proper detection equipment, it is often too late when high levels are found and people become symptomatic."

"Also please remember to change your batteries in your detectors when you change your clocks.", Zak added.

Chemical Leak Prompts Haz Mat Team Response

2011-10-04T06:12:00.000-04:00

At 1822 hrs. The Milford Fire Department received a call from the Department of Environmental Protection Haz Mat Response reporting that a drum was leaking in the back of a tractor trailer truck and he was requesting the Fire Department to respond. Engine 5, Engine 1 and the shift commander responded to assess the situation. The drum contained Naptha resin and was located behind several other drums.

A Haz Mat response was initiated bringing Haz Mat 1, Engine 4, Tower 1 and Rescue 1 to the scene. The area was isolated and some nearby tractor trailer drivers where asked to relocate their vehicles. Working with DEP and a cleanup contractor, Hazardous Materials Technicians from the Milford Fire Department worked to remove the drums so they could access the damaged one. Once this drum was found it was placed into a plastic over-pack drum to contain any additional leaks.

The major concern from this product was its flammability hazard. Haz Mat technicians used chemical detection devices to make sure they were not in a flammable atmosphere. As a precaution, firefighters deployed two foam lines and 2 master streams in case there was an ignition. There were no injuries to civilians or firefighters. All fire department personnel had cleared the scene by 2230 hrs.

Milford emergency operations center details Irene response (video)

2011-09-16T16:36:00.001-04:00

Check out this article from the New Haven Register regarding their visit to the Milford Fire Operations recent post-storm informational open house:

http://www.nhregister.com/articles/2011/09/15/news/milford/doc4e72a84f2a073744168496.txt

Homeowner's Propane Tank Disposal Day

2011-09-14T18:12:00.000-04:00

The City of Milford and the Milford Fire Department will be conducting a “Propane Tank Collection Day” on Saturday October 1, 2011 to collect 20lb propane cylinders (i.e. from gas grills). The collection is for Milford residents only and proof of residency will be required. There is no cost for this collection.

The collection will take place at 55 Wheelers Farms Road, upper parking lot of Station 7. The collection time will be from 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. The following shall be adhered to:

· Have proof of residency ready

· Tanks should be transported in an upright position

· Safety plug must be in place

· Preferable driver only transporting the tank(s)

· Valve must be in the closed position

· We will take full, partially filled and empty 20lb tanks

· DO NOT vent the tank prior to transporting

· Tanks should be secured in place to prevent accidental tip-over

· Tanks showing signs of damage or deterioration can not be refilled

· Tanks should be transported with the vehicle windows open

· No smoking during the transport of the tank or in the drop off area

Propane tanks smaller than 10 lbs. in volume will not be accepted. City residents may dispose of “small 1 pound camp stove propane cylinders” at the Household Hazwaste Central located at Regional Water Authority Headquarters, 90 Sargent Drive, New Haven (203) 401-2712 or visit their website at: www.rwater.com

For more information, please call the Fire Marshal’s Office at (203) 874-6321 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Sept 2 - Fire Department Operations Update

2011-09-02T22:29:00.000-04:00

As the weekend approaches, the Milford Fire Department is beginning to see a decrease of calls needing emergency assistance to normal levels. Since the storm began the Milford Fire Department has answered more than 390 calls for emergency assistance. The Emergency Operations Center Storm Line continues to receive call for assistance and information regarding recovery operations.

As of 3pm Friday Sept. 2, the United Illuminating Liaison reports that 3% of Milford is still without power (860 customers). If you have overhead service to your home you should be aware that UI is responsible for the wires from the street to your house. If this wire is down or the meter is damaged, please call UI immediately at 1-800-7CALLUI to report this for repair. The customer is responsible for the wires that connect from the house to the meter and the box containing the meter. If these appear damaged in any way you’ll need to call your own licensed electrician to repair damage before UI can reconnect service.

Fire Department personnel continue to work assisting homeowners in removing water from their houses and basements with portable pumps. Residents needing assistance with pump outs should call the Milford Fire Department Storm information center at (203) 874-6782.

On Friday, the City of Milford completed the initial evaluation of the shoreline area to evaluate structural damage to buildings. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) held another meeting at Fire Headquarters with City Officials and resumed its evaluation the areas with the most damage in the City.

The City of Milford’s Health Department and Fire Departments continue to offer food and water distribution throughout the weekend. These areas will be open from 8am until 9pm (while supplies last) until Monday Sept 5.

Food and Water will be distributed at these locations

Milford Fire Headquarters @ 72 New Haven Avenue
Milford Fire Station 5 @ 128 Kings Highway
Milford Fire Station 6 @ 204 Melba Street
Milford Fire Station 7 @ 55 Wheelers Farms Road
Milford Fire Station 8 @ 349 Naugatuck Avenue

These locations will provide Military style (MRE’s Meals ready to eat) and bottled water.

AT THIS TIME THERE IS NO ICE AT THESE LOCATIONS

There are still numerous downed trees that may be entangled with electrical wires. If you see downed power lines, stay away and contact 911. Do not touch fallen or low-hanging wires of any kind under any circumstances. Also do not touch any trees or objects in contact with power lines.

Any non-emergency requests for service or questions regarding post storm operations can be directed to the Storm Center telephone number at (203) 874-6782.

Fire Department Spokesman Captain Chris Zak said on friday, "I would like to express my sincere gratitude for all residents of the City of Milford for pulling together and assisting each one of our neighbors. I understand that this event tested many individuals and gave them hardship. One thing I want to stress is even though some of our homes were damaged and destroyed, not a single resident of Milford was killed or severely injured. We should be thankful of that."

Emergency Food & Water Available at Fire Stations in Milford

2011-09-01T20:02:00.001-04:00

The Milford Fire Department has announced that any Milford Resident that is in need of Emergency Food or Water due to outages can stop by any of the Milford Fire houses between the hours of 8am - 9pm. Bottled water and emergency MREs (Meals Ready to Eat) will be available while supplies last.

Milford Fire Headquarters - 72 New Haven Avenue

Milford Fire Station 5 - 128 Kings Highway

Milford Fire Station 6 - 204 Melba Street

Milford Fire Station 7 - 55 Wheelers Farms Road

Milford Fire Station 8 - 349 Naugatuck Avenue

Milford Fire Department Post Storm Update

2011-08-30T18:18:00.000-04:00

As we move into the second day after Tropical Storm Irene struck the shoreline area, the City of Milford is pulling together and working as a community to get back to “normal” as quickly and as safely as possible.

As of 3pm today, the United Illuminating Liaison that still continues to operate out of the Milford Fire Department Headquarters reports that 43% of Milford is still without power. Crews from the Milford Fire Department have assisted the Utility Companies by doing door to door surveys of the structures in the affected areas to determine the damage to the electrical services in the buildings. This will now allow the Utility Companies to remove certain electrical meters from houses so they can restore the electricity to the undamaged buildings. Without this information, power cannot be turned on for fear of starting widespread electrical fires.

The United Illuminating Company has researched their records and determined individuals in their database that have filled paperwork requesting special medical needs in the event of an extended power outage. The City of Milford has asked the UI to let them know that if they should need medical assistance, to please call the City of Milford Emergency Operations Center at (203) 874-6782. FOR A TRUE MEDICAL EMERGENCY DIAL 911.

Fire Department personnel still are working day and night to assist homeowners in removing water from their houses and basements with portable pumps. Residents needing assistance with pump outs should call the Milford Fire Department Storm information center at (203) 874-6782.

Emergency calls still continue to come in at an above average amount. Many of these calls are storm related and continue to tax the first responders.

As we move into another day with much of the City still without power we want to urge residents to be ever vigilant in making sure the safety of the citizens are maintained. During the evening hours we suggest that people without power refrain from using candles for illumination purposes. On the average there are 166 civilian deaths resulting from house fires started by unattended candles. We recommend that you use flashlights or portable lanterns to provide light. If candles must be used, please keep them 12 inches away from anything that can burn. Remember, your windows may be open and your curtains could come dangerously close to the candles.

Many residents without power have resorted to the use of portable generators to provide some of their electricity. Portable generators can be hazardous if used improperly. The two biggest risks are carbon monoxide poisoning from the toxic engine exhaust and electrocution from connecting the generator to the home electrical wiring system. Always observe the manufacturer’s instructions for safe operation and run your generator outdoors in a well, ventilated area. Keep combustibles away from generators and remember before refueling, turn the engine off and let cool for at least 2 minutes. Also all combustible and flammable liquids should be stored outside.

For those of you using propane or charcoal grills to conduct your cooking, please use the safely and set them up in outside and away from the building. At no time, should these grills be set up inside an enclosed area.

There are still numerous downed trees that may be inter- twinned with electrical wires. If you see downed power lines, stay away and contact 911. Do not touch fallen or low-hanging wires of any kind under any circumstances. Also do not touch any trees or objects in contact with power lines.

Any non-emergency requests for service or questions regarding post storm operations can be directed to the Storm Center telephone number at (203) 874-6782.

Update on City's Recovery from Hurricane Irene

2011-08-30T09:13:00.000-04:00

The Milford Fire Department is in recovery mode from Hurricane Irene and is experiencing a higher than normal request for assistance from city residents.

During the Storm, Fire Department crews responded to more than 175 calls for emergency assistance which included several electrical fires in structures, medical emergencies and water rescues throughout the City.

The Emergency Operations center answered more than a thousand calls for assistance yesterday and continues to receive calls today trying to answer questions from citizens regarding post Hurricane Irene recovery operations. Citizens can call (203) 874-6782 to get information regarding questions.

According to the United Illuminating Liaison at Fire Headquarters, 38 % of the City is still without power and they are working on establishing power to the secondary priorities to the buildings and areas that were developed by Emergency Management.

Citizens must understand that in some areas of the City, power was shut off for Safety purposes during the height of the storm. This was done to stop building fires that were developing and also to increase the safety of those evacuating and emergency workers.

Fire Department personnel are currently in the areas of Point Beach and Beechland Ave assessing the conditions of buildings before power can be returned. It is not as easy as flipping a switch, each structure must be evaluated and if the electrical service has been damaged the electrical meter needs to be made inoperable by the United Illuminating before power can be restored to the entire area. If power was to be returned without doing this the risk of electrical fires increases severely.

Residents that have questions regarding electrical problems should contact the United Illuminating Storm desk at (800) 722-5584.

Numerous roads still remain closed and the Fire Department is coordinating with the Public Works and United Illuminating to get these roads open. Many of the fallen trees have also taken down wires and those wires are still energized, the power will need to be shut off before the trees can be removed.

Residents using generators shall use caution as the two biggest risks are carbon monoxide poisoning from the toxic engine exhaust and electrocution from connecting to the home electrical wiring system. Always run your generator outside in a well-ventilated area.

Additional information regarding post storm operations can be obtained from the City of Milford’s website or by contacting (203) 874-6782.

Dispatcher Retires After 27 Years of Service

2011-07-08T07:23:00.002-04:00

Dispatcher James Connors, III retired from his position as a fire dispatcher this week marking the end of a 27 year career with the Milford Fire Department dispatch center. Jim began his career with Milford Fire back in 1984 as a dispatcher. He is the last of a long line of Connors that have served the City of Milford Fire Service. Jim’s grandfather, father and brother were all members of the Milford Fire Department.

During his career, Jim has been involved in the communications for many major incidents in Milford. His voice was one of calm on the other end of many frantic 911 calls and his cool, calm demeanor on the radio never wavered even in the face of major incidents. “Jim is an excellent dispatcher that will be sorely missed.”, said Dan Worroll EOC Coordinator for the Milford Fire Department.

Jim also served as president of the Milford Professional Telecommunicators, IAFF Local 4260. Jim was involved in getting the dispatchers associated with the IAFF as opposed to the previous union the dispatchers were part of and served as president when Local 4260 received its charter from the International Association of Fire Fighters This is the union that continues to represent the dispatchers of the Milford Fire Department.

David P. Dixon, president of Local 4260 said, “On behalf of all the dispatchers, I would like to take this time to thank Jim for his service to the City of Milford and to the members of our local. He will be missed and we wish him all the best in his retirement.”

Probationary Firefighter leaves for Active Duty with Marine Corps.

2011-04-22T11:58:00.000-04:00

Milford Fire Department Probationary Firefighter Mathew Biroscak, a recent graduate of the Connecticut Fire Academy in December, is being deployed with the Marine Corps to Afghanistan. The department will be sending Firefighter Biroscak off today with a ceremony at Fire Headquarters at 12:00 noon.

The Milford Fire Department will be flying and displaying service flags with a single star to represent one of our Brothers is deployed overseas. The Service flag was first displayed in the front windows of homes during World War I to signify a son or husband serving in the Armed Forces. The flag quickly became known as the "son in service flag" with each blue star indicating one family member.

Department spokesman Capt. Christopher Zak said, "We are extremely proud of Matt’s accomplishments and his dedicated service to this Department and also to our Country." We wish him all the best and for a safe return from service.

Homeowners Propane Tank Disposal Day

2011-04-20T14:32:00.000-04:00

The City of Milford and the Milford Fire Department will be conducting a “Propane Tank Collection Day” on Saturday April 30, 2011 to collect 20lb propane cylinders (i.e. from gas grills). The collection is for Milford residents only and proof of residency will be required. There is no cost for this collection.

The collection will take place at 55 Wheelers Farms Road, upper parking lot of Station 7. The collection time will be from 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. The following shall be adhered to:

Have proof of residency ready
Tanks should be transported in an upright position
Safety plug must be in place
Preferable driver only transporting the tank(s)
Valve must be in the closed position
We will take full, partially filled and empty 20lb tanks
DO NOT vent the tank prior to transporting.
Tanks should be secured in place to prevent accidental tip-over
Tanks showing signs of damage or deterioration can not be refilled
Tanks should be transported with the vehicle windows open
No smoking during the transport of the tank or in the drop off area

Propane tanks smaller than 10 lbs. in volume will not be accepted. City residents may dispose of “small 1 pound camp stove propane cylinders” at the Household Hazwaste Central located at Regional Water Authority Headquarters, 90 Sargent Drive, New Haven (203) 401-2712 or visit their website at: http://www.rwater.com/

For more information, please call the Fire Marshal’s Office at (203) 874-6321 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Quick Thinking Bystanders Save Man's Life

2011-02-26T07:45:00.000-05:00

On Saturday, February 19th a 35 year old man was enjoying an afternoon lunch at the Red Robin restaurant at the Westfield Connecticut Post Mall when he suddenly went into cardiac arrest. It is only because of the quick thinking of some trained individuals that this person is now alive.

When this male collapsed the Manager of the Red Robin, Curtis Kilburn quickly notified 911 and also called Westfield Mall Security to respond. Two bystanders, Jeanne DeMello (a nurse) and Mark Kipstein (an off duty New York City Firefighter), quickly began performing Cardio Pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on the man that had collapsed and was not breathing and had no pulse or heartbeat.

Quickly Westfield Mall security personnel brought with them an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) and hooked up the patient to the machine within minutes of the collapse. Mall Security personnel Brian Carson and Michael Todd allowed the machine to analyze the individuals heart rhythm and assisted the machine in performing a “shock” because the heart was in ventricular fibrillation. This one shock was instrumental in placing the individuals heart rate back into a normal rhythm.

Within four minutes of the initial 911 call, the Milford Fire Department Paramedics were on the scene and provided Advanced Life Support to the male patient to stabilize his cardiac rhythm and assist in providing oxygen. The patient was then transported to Milford Hospital by American Medical Response ambulance with the Milford Fire Department Paramedics assisting with the transport.

Fire department spokesman Capt. Chris Zak said, "Recently the City of Milford was awarded the designation of a HEART SAVER Community. This type of action and response shows that lives can be saved when all the factors are in place and performed in a timely fashion. It is only because of the actions of all the individuals mentioned that this male patient is alive today."

Firefighters Quickly extinguish House fire in Devon

2011-02-03T16:28:00.000-05:00

At 1357 hrs, the Milford Fire Department Emergency Operations Center received a 911 telephone call for a reported house fire at 150 Riverside Dr. Dispatchers quickly sent Engines 3, 4, 1, Tower 1, Rescue 2 and the Shift Commander to the scene.

Engine Company 3 arrived on the scene and found a single family house with heavy fire showing from the first floor windows. An attack line was pulled and firefighters entered the structure to attack the fire and search for any occupants. The main fire had extended into the attack area and this too was quickly knocked down. All occupants had gotten out of the house prior to the arrival of the Fire Department.

At this time the fire is under investigation and the Red Cross is working with the family to find the shelter for this evening.

Fire Department Responds to Building Collapse

2011-02-02T18:07:00.000-05:00

At 1058 hrs. the Milford Fire Department received a 911 telephone call for a reported building collapse with people trapped and injured at 282 Woodmont Road. Immediately a first alarm assignment consisting of Engines 1, 7, 5, Tower 1, Rescue 1, Technical Rescue Unit 234 and the Shift Commander were dispatched.

On arrival Battalion Chief Bernie Begley encountered a commercial building of ordinary construction that had totally collapsed, initial reports were people were trapped and injured. Also on investigation it was found that the natural gas service to the building had been damaged and was leaking. Fire Department personnel quickly using combustible gas meters secured the scene and began the search for trapped and injured occupants.

The injured and evacuated were moved to a triage area and were evaluated with the assistance of American Medical Response personnel. It was determined that 4 people had been initially trapped inside the structure after the collapse but were able to self-extricate themselves by climbing over and under debris piles. These people were evaluated and two occupants were transported to Milford Hospital for evaluation of minor injuries.

Assistance was requested from the Connecticut Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) Taskforce from Hartford. The US&R Taskforce responded with a canine search component for assistance with the search of the building. After discussion with the building occupants, it was determined that everyone was accounted for.

Local buildings and business were evacuated for safety concerns due to the leaking natural gas. All utilities companies have responded to the scene and secured the utilities from the effected structures.

During the reconnaissance of the building, it was found out that the building contained a large amount of hazardous materials that are used in a chemical plating process. The Department of Environmental Protection was the scene and provided assistance to the Milford Hazardous Material Team. Currently a private clean up company was being requested to the scene.

Tomorrow, building officials will be on the scene and evaluating the structural integrity of the damaged buildings.

Milford Fire Department Offers Holiday Shopping Advice

2010-12-11T07:30:00.001-05:00

Need something for the person who you think has everything, or the people who are impossible to buy for every year? These ideas are not expensive, but can provide the precious gift of peace of mind. The other great thing is they are gifts that keep on giving long after the person receives them.

These suggested gift ideas come from the National Fire Protection Association and are endorsed by the Milford Fire Department.

· Carbon monoxide detectors, these alert loved ones in the event that the silent killer carbon monoxide is present. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas formed when fuels don’t burn completely. Fuels include natural gas, propane, oil and burning equipment. Although not a fire safety device, it does protect the home where smoke detectors do not.

· Smoke detectors, one of the best fire safety items for the home. Seventy percent of all deaths occurring in homes happen in residences that either do not have smoke detectors are they are not in working order. Consider a smoke detector for everyone on your list this holiday season. Most detectors have a ten year life cycle and many in our area have exceeded this time period and maybe ought to be replaced. For special needs individuals who are hard of hearing or hearing impaired some units now come equipped with strobe lights, high decibels are vibrate when they go into alarm.

· The old standby “flashlight”, these prevent fire when used during power outages instead of candles.

· If you are or someone you know uses candles, help prevent tip over’s when they are lit with a set of sturdy candle holders. Even better the lantern style candle holder can reduce the likelihood of something coming into contact with the flame of the candle.

· For the person on your list who owns a fireplace, a secure fireplace screen which keeps embers from getting into the room. A box of long fireplace matches help prevent burns when igniting fuels.

· What about a gift certificate for a cleanup service to come in and remove clutter that might be fire prone from basements, attics or yards. If that special person owns a fire place or wood stove maybe a gift certificate for a chimney cleaning to prevent creosote buildup that is a major cause of chimney fires.

· On the more personal side, a bathrobe with tight fitting sleeves, that won’t touch stove burners while cooking. Or how about a down or synthetic comforter, flannel sheets or pajamas, these will keep your loved one warm and decrease the need for space or portable heaters, especially at night. In two-thirds of fire deaths blamed on home heating device the space heater (fixed or portable) were the cause.

· Another item is fireproof oven mitts for both the stove and the barbecue. If someone you know smokes how about a large, deep, non tip ashtray, these help prevent smoking material from igniting nearby combustible items.

· A portable fire extinguisher with instructions on its use in case the unspeakable happens, generally a multi-purpose dry chemical type is recommended.

· Large house numbers to assist fire, police and EMS to locate a home quickly during an emergency, especially at night.

· Batteries for the smoke detector or flashlight can make great stocking stuffers.

These items may not be at the top of everyone’s wish list, definitely not exciting, but can have a high reward factor if they save a life or prevent someone from getting injured.

Unfortunately, some eye opening facts regarding the holiday season and safety.

- December, January and February are the deadliest months for fires.
- The top 10 days for home fires in recent years were between December 24 and January 6.
- Cooking and heating fires are the leading causes of home fires in the months of December through February
- Candle fires have nearly tripled in the past decade. Nearly twice as many home candle fires occur in December than any other month, perhaps because of the holiday decorations and seasonal celebrations.

We wish you and your family a very happy and safe holiday season!

Dispatchers Honored at Fire Department Awards

2010-12-01T19:33:00.003-05:00

The Milford Fire Department honored various members of the department and community during the annual awards ceremony that was held at Milford City Hall on Tuesday November 30. Dispatcher David Dixon and Dispatcher Thomas Rak were awarded the Dispatcher's Metal of Merit in recognition for their handling of communications during a large multi-building structure fire in the area of 38 Laurel Ave on April 28, 2010.

Dispatcher David Dixon salutes Chief
Louis LaVecchia after receiving the
Dispatcher's Metal of Merit

Dispatchers Dixon & Rak with Chief LaVecchia

Captain Christopher Zak, master of ceremonies for the awards, stated that during this incident "Radio traffic was heavy; instructions were relayed, the Fire Ground frequency was monitored for firefighter safety, and notifications were made all with calm professionalism. When all was said and done, Dispatchers Dixon and Rak fielded over twenty (20) 911 calls from excited and hysterical people for this one incident alone. They got 12 pieces of apparatus from three towns to the scene; along with numerous command vehicles, and representatives from the UI, Gas Company, Red Cross, American Medical Response, the Milford Police Department, Building Department and the Fire Marshall’s Office. They also arranged for firefighter rehabilitation with the Special Services unit. For handling this highly stressful incident in an exceptional manner, Dispatchers Dixon and Rak are awarded the Dispatcher's Medal of Merit."

Also during the event, Dispatcher Gina Corso was sworn in as a dispatcher of the department, having passed her one year probationary period.

Several community members were recognized during the event including 5 year old Jimmy Cobain who was honored for playing a key role in summoning help when someone was injured on a skateboard. 8 year old Aidan Conway who called 911 to report that his mother had fainted and he was unable to wake her up. Robert Loftus and Bryann Woodmansee were also recognized for their assistance in helping a moped driver who's clothes caught fire after a mishap with his moped.

Several firefighters from Milford and some from surrounding towns such as Stratford and West Haven were awarded unit citations for responses to calls throughout the year including units that responded to a large structure fire on Laurel Ave, a large structure fire on Edgefield Ave and a horse rescue on West River St.

Members of the Fire Marshalls division, Fire Marshall Assistant Chief Alan Zingaro, Senior Fire Inspector Andrew Vargo, Fire Inspector Anthony Fino and Fire Inspector Paul Geer were given an administrative award for all of their efforts in improving the Fire Marshall's division and improving fire safety in the City of Milford.

The Milford Fire Department Special Service Unit ("The Dinosaurs") was honored for all their assistance to the City of Milford Fire Department and several surrounding towns through out the year.

Firefighter Jason Hall was presented with the Community Service Award for his work with the Connecticut Burns Foundation through the years.

Members were also recognized for heroic actions over the past year, including a very dangerous extrication from an overturned tractor trailer that had live wires downed on it. Firefighter Jason Bocchetta, FF James DeVico, FF Eric Mohr, FF Jose Colon, Lieutenant Michael Donegan and Captain Christopher Zak were awarded the Metal of Bravery, the department's second highest honor, for their actions during this incident, where they placed their lives in harms way and ultimately saved the life of the individual trapped in the accident. FF Michael Ryan, FF Thomas Piskura, FF Michael Wydra, FF Stephen Mantie, FF Eric Theriault, Battalion Chief Patrick Hayden also received the Meritorious Service Award for this incient and FF Lawerence Hoyt, Asst. Supt of Apparatus (then FF) Joseph Widman received Letters of Commendation.

The Meritorious Service Award was bestowed upon Lieutenant Clinton LaPlant, Firefighter Paul Buda, FF Carlos Rios, FF Peter Phelan for an exemplary performance of duty and a letter of commendation was awarded to FF Tim Geer, FF Karl Hofmeister and Captain Ronald Wetmore for their actions rescuing a despondent person from Long Island Sound off the coast of Hillside Ave.

The Meritorious Service Award was also awarded to FF Patrick Nolan, FF Jeffery Hilliard, FF Christopher Brown, Captain Russell Chapman, and Captain Christopher Zak and letters of commendation were award to FF Scott Moran, FF Layne Manginelli, FF Frank Geer and FF Tom Piskura for their actions while assisting the Bridgeport fire department with a room and contents fire in a high rise building on Park Ave.

The department also swore in new firefighters Paul Buda, Zachary Daniel, Jason Bocchetta, Brandon Edo, Ramon Pons IV, David Tobias, and Justin Edo who have successfully passed their probationary period.

In addition, the following members were promoted, Lieutenant Michael Donegan, Lieutenant Stephen Rabel, Lieutenant Martin Halprin, Captain Russell Chapman, Captain Ronald Wetmore, Captain Anthony Fabrizi, Assistant Superintendent of Apparatus Joe Widman, Assistant Chief Robert Healey, Battalion Chief Bernard Begley, Battalion Chief Daniel DelVecchio, Superintendant of Apparatus Dave Eisenhandler

Firefighters Rescue Construction Worker from Trench Accident

2010-09-28T15:46:00.000-04:00

At 1055 hrs. the Milford Fire Department 911 Emergency Operations Center received a telephone call reporting a construction accident at 396 West Mayflower Place, a construction worker was struck with a steel support and was injured twenty (20’) down inside of a trench. Dispatchers quickly sent Engines 1, 3, 4, and 6, Tower 1, Rescue 1, Car 4 and the Technical Rescue unit to the scene.

When Engine Company 4 arrived they were directed to the trench where a approximately 50 y/o male worker was injured 20 feet down inside the trench. The worker had sustained head, neck and back injuries from trauma resulting from a steel support that struck him during the construction process.

The trench was initially metered to ascertain if there were any atmospheric problems and the crew of Engine 4 entered the trench to begin Basic and Advanced Life Support. The patient was packaged and placed into an extrication device and secured in a stokes rescue basket.

Utilizing the skills of the construction workers, a crane was used to lower the stokes rescue basket into the hole and then also used to raise the injured worker up and out of the hole. The worker was transported to Yale New Haven Trauma Center by American Medical Response Ambulance with a Milford Fire Department Paramedic continuing the advanced care.

OSHA was on the scene and investigating the cause of the accident.

City Spared from the Effects of Hurricane Earl

2010-09-04T05:29:00.000-04:00

The City of Milford was spared the effects of Hurricane Earl as the system weakened and tracked slightly more to the east as it approached the area. Milford officials had been keeping a close eye on the progress of Hurricane Earl. The City's storm information line 8-STORM-2 was updated Thursday night and throughout the day on Friday with the latest storm related forecasts for the area. On Friday Mayor James Richetelli, Jr. said, "Right now the reports are that it’s in our favor, the system is getting weaker and moving farther out. So our effects should be minimal."

The effects were minimal, with Milford receiving little more than a few rain showers. Still, City officials say that they were prepared for the worse. "We began several days ago to prepare for the event that the storm intensifies or changes course. Hurricanes by their nature are unpredictable and although we cannot predict to a certainty where Earl will make landfall, we closely monitored this storm for any potential impact on our community", said Captain Chris Zak of the Milford Fire Department. "We advise all residents to prepare for the worst and hope for the best. All residents should be prepared for severe weather no matter what time of the year it is", said Zak.

Milford residents and officials alike are breathing a sign of relief, Hurricane Earl has moved past the area and the weather is forecast to be clear with breezy conditions possible on Saturday.

City of Milford Preparing for Tropical Storm Force Winds on Friday

2010-09-02T18:10:00.000-04:00

The latest forecast from the National Hurricane Center is predicting that Earl will continue moving to the North today with a turn to the North Northeast late tonight, passing just east of the Outer Banks of North Carolina just after midnight as a Major Hurricane.

Earl is then forecast to accelerate to the North Northeast at 25 MPH on Friday and pass very close to Nantucket and Cape Cod as a Category II hurricane Friday Evening at 11:00 PM. Towns along the Connecticut coast from Milford to Stonington can expect Tropical Storm conditions Friday evening likely between 4:00 PM and Midnight. Also an expected 2 – 4 inches of heavy rainfall may cause urban and small stream flooding in Southeastern CT as the Hurricane passes to the Southeast. In addition, large sea waves can be expected along any exposed beaches in Southeastern CT.

The Milford Fire Department began several days ago to prepare for the event that the storm intensifies or changes course. Hurricanes by their nature are unpredictable and although we cannot predict to a certainty where Earl will make landfall, we continue to closely monitor this storm for any potential impact on our community. Currently we are in the monitoring mode and will re-evaluate our plans on Friday morning after reviewing the latest forecasted path.

The Milford Fire Department advises all residents to prepare for the worst and hope for the best. All residents should be prepared for severe weather no matter what time of the year it is. Residents should have an emergency kit and emergency food for three days. All residents are encouraged to visit http://www.ready.gov/ and http://www.redcross.org/ to learn more about how to prepare for an emergency and also how to take steps to keep their family safe.

Edgefield Avenue Fire Classified as Accidental

2010-06-24T12:58:00.000-04:00

On June 22, 2010 at 2040 hrs, a third alarm fire destroyed one home and severely damaged two others at 55 Edgefield Avenue. The fire was so intense that over (50) 911 telephone calls were received and a dozen had come from the East Haven area where people saw the fire from across the water.

At the height of the blaze over 40 firefighters from Milford and West Haven battled to contain the fire. Units from Stratford, Bridgeport and West Haven were used to cover the remaining emergency calls.

Assistant Chief Alan Zingaro has classified the fire as accidental. The cause of the fire has been determined to be from careless smoking and started on the outside of the structure in the front porch area.

Fire Captain Chris Zak said, "All residents are reminded that about 3,500 Americans die each year in fires and about 20,000 are injured. Many of them might be alive today if they had only learned what to do if there is a fire. One of the best ways to protect yourself and your family is to have a working smoke alarm with a working battery."

Three Alarm Fire Under Investigation

2010-06-23T15:27:00.000-04:00

The Milford Fire Department continues its investigation at 55 Edgefield Avenue where last evening a third alarm fire damaged three structures. At 2041 hrs, the Milford Fire Department Emergency Operations Center began receiving 911 phone calls reporting a house fire on Edgefield Avenue. In total over (50) 911 phone calls were fielded by dispatchers as well as (12) 911 calls from East Haven residents reporting a fire across the water.

When units arrived on the scene, they found (2) three story structures heavily involved in fire with (2) additional structures being threatened by the rapidly growing fire. The fire quickly grew to three alarms bringing all on duty units from Milford to the fire, crews from Stratford, West Haven and Bridgeport came to Milford to assist in covering additional emergency calls.

The fire was under control within an hour and crews remained on scene throughout the night.

Firefighter Jason Hall sustained a fractured ankle during the incident and was transported to Milford Hospital where he was treated and released. There were no injuries to any civilians.

Fire Department spokesman, Captain Chris Zak stated, "Although this fire was tragic, no loss of life or serious injury was sustained."

The fire damaged building is scheduled to come down today, because it is structurally not safe to remain standing. The Milford Fire Department Fire Marshall hopes to release the cause of the fire on Thursday.

Car Crashes into House

2010-06-14T17:30:00.000-04:00

On June 14, 2010 the Milford Fire Department Emergency Operations Center began receiving 911 telephone calls for a reported car that had crashed into a house. Engine s 1, 5, 6, Tower 1 and Rescue 1 were dispatched to 78 Hillside Avenue. Within minutes Engine 5 arrived on the scene and began to assess the situation.

Department spokesman, Captain Christopher Zak said, "It appears that a elderly male had driven from Edgefield Avenue, lost control coming down a hill and crashed into the garage section of 78 Hillside Avenue. Fire Department Paramedics quickly stabilized him and checked him for injuries. He was immobilized, removed from the car and was transported to Milford Hospital for evaluation."

Zak went on to say, "Fire Department crews checked the structure for hazard and stability and determined that no emergency shoring needed to be erected." The City of Milford Building Department was notified and also responded to evaluate the situation.

Firefighters Rescue Driver after Tractor Trailer Crash on I-95

2010-06-14T17:24:00.000-04:00

At 0448 hrs on June 14, 2010, the Milford Fire Department Emergency Operations Center received a telephone call from Milford Police Department reporting a major traffic accident on Interstate 95 Northbound near exit 40. Engines 1, 5, 7, Tower 1 and Rescue 1 were dispatched to the scene. When units arrived on the scene they found three tractor trailer trucks that had collided into each other.

One driver ( 55 y/o male) was trapped in the last truck in line. Firefighters from Engine 1 and Tower 1 began using the Hurst Tool “Jaws of Life” to open the doors and displace the dash board so that the patient could be removed from the cab. The extrication took approximately ten minutes and then the patient was transported to Yale New Haven Trauma Center.

The middle truck was a tanker carrying liquid latex. A small amount of product had come out of the dome covers because of the impact of the collision. The driver of the tanker was also transported to Yale New Haven Hospital for evaluation. No other injuries were reported.

Fire Department personnel quickly switched to a “Haz-Mat” mode and began to contain the leaking diesel fuel and the latex. The Department of Environmental Protection was called to the scene and also a commercial cleanup contractor responded to assist in the cleanup.

Worker Electrocuted When Ladder Comes in Contact with Electrical Lines

2010-06-02T18:50:00.000-04:00

On June 1, 2010 at 1839 hrs. the Milford Fire Department Emergency Operations Center received a 911 telephone call reporting that 2 men had been electrocuted at 66 Point Beach Drive.

Engine 5, 6, Rescue 2 and the Shift Commander where dispatched to the scene and arrived within minutes of the original call.

Somehow workers were using a ladder to power wash the upper floors of the house when the ladder came in contact with the electrical wires. Both men received electrical shocks and were thrown to the ground. Crews from Engine 6 and Rescue 2 began to work on the men but determined that one of the individuals had succumbed to his injuries. The second worker received Advanced Life Support and was transported to Bridgeport Hospital Burn Unit.

Fire Department officials contacted OSHA who along with the Milford Police Department investigated the accident

Propane Tank Collection Day

2010-05-04T17:55:00.000-04:00

The City of Milford and the Milford Fire Department will be conducting “Propane Tank Collection Day” on Saturday, May 15, 2010 to collect 20 lb propane cylinders (i.e. from gas grills). The collection is for Milford residents only and proof of residency will be required. There is no cost for this collection.
The collection will take place in the upper parking lot of Fire Station #7 located at 55 Wheelers Farm Road from 8:30 a.m. until 12:00 noon.

The following shall be adhered to:

Have proof of residency ready.
Tanks should be transported in an upright position.
Tanks should be secured in place to prevent accidental tip-over.
A safety plug must be in place.
The valve must be in the closed position.
It is preferable the driver only transport the tank(s).
DO NOT vent the tank prior to transporting. Full, partially filled and empty 20 lb tanks will be accepted.
Tanks should be transported with the vehicle windows open.
No smoking during the transport of the tank or in the drop off area.

Propane tanks smaller than 10 lbs. in volume will not be accepted. City residents may dispose of “small 1 pound camp stove propane cylinders” at the Household Hazwaste Central located at Regional Water Authority Headquarters, 90 Sargent Drive, New Haven (203) 401-2712 or visit their website at: http://www.rwater.com/

For more information please call the Fire Marshal’s Office at 874-6321 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.