City of hartford fire department · P a g e | 2 Five years from now, the Hartford Fire Department will be recognized as an ISO Class 1 and Internationally Accredited Fire Department

Hartford Fire Headquarters 253 High St. Hartford, CT 06103

CITY OF HARTFORD FIRE DEPARTMENT Annual Report – 2016

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The City of Hartford Fire Department is committed to preventing and minimizing the loss of life and property through incident stabilization and mitigation with the delivery of professional, high quality, efficient emergency fire, rescue and emergency medical service, fire prevention, public response as a regional partner for the protection of the residents, business community and visitors to the City of Hartford and its region.

We the members of the Hartford Fire Department, in order to carry out our mission, do hereby commit to these core values;

When responding to emergency situations within the many communities that call upon us, we are always respectful and empathetic towards those we serve.

In our daily interactions, we are focused on maintaining a courteous and friendly atmosphere built on a foundation of open communications.

We are accountable as the providers of emergency services and perform our duties with courage, gratitude, pride, and a positive attitude.

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Five years from now, the Hartford Fire Department will be recognized as an

ISO Class 1 and Internationally Accredited Fire Department which is committed to

delivering quality services to our community.

Our organizational culture will reflect an honest and respectful team

atmosphere nurtured by open internal communication processes providing greater

information sharing and involvement in decisions to accomplish our mission. Our

workforce will strive to improve recruitment and retention, standardize training in

diverse skills sets, expand our public education initiatives and promote career

development at all levels in the department. Our dedicated and well-trained

members will convey enthusiasm in our commitment to excellence by

demonstrating courteous, friendly, and empathetic delivery of services to all those

living, working, or visiting in our community.

Our leadership and workforce will hold one another accountable for applying

organizational values, while continuously striving to reach our goals. Emphasis will

be placed upon gaining consensus and ownership with organizational issues

thereby assuring a healthy work environment and member job satisfaction.

We will effectively manage our physical resources and explore all

opportunities to implement new and better utilized technology to improve the

quality of support and operational services, all while expending time and energy

towards developing the best strategies for continued improvement.

In honoring our community’s trust, we are committed to providing effective,

efficient, fiscally-responsible service while demonstrating courage, gratitude, and

pride. We will expand our external information initiatives so that our priorities,

philosophy and operations are clearly understood by our community members. By

proactively identifying our evolving community risks, and the dynamic demands of

those risks, we will improve our response capabilities while implementing resource

and deployment strategies carrying the best interest of our community in

accomplishing our mission.

Our vision, through these efforts, is to continuously improve as an

organization, and to consistently meet or exceed the expectations of the members

and community of Hartford.

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Message from the Chief 6

Fiscal Budget 7

Emergency Services Division 8-13

Support Services 14

Executive Office 15

Employee Assistance Program 16

Community Risk Reduction Division 17-22

Training Division 23-26

Fire Alarm Communication Technology Division 27-28

Equipment Maintenance Division 29-33

Management Services Division 34

Community Engagement 35

Promotions 36-38

Retirements 39-40

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“I don’t expect perfection. That is unrealistic…..I do;

however, expect the pursuance of excellence in any and

everything that we do. Through our reinvigorated emphasis

on structure, organization, and discipline, we are

reinforcing the principles and values that have made our

department great and will ensure that we continue to be

great.”

- Reginald D. Freeman, Fire Chief

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I am pleased to present the Hartford Fire Department’s 2016 Annual Report. 2016 marks my

first year as Fire Chief for our prestigious and storied department which I am honored to have the

privilege of leading. The Hartford Fire Department is an Insurance Services Office Class I rated

department which was the first in New England to earn the coveted designation on February 1, 1991.

In 2016, there were only 68 out of 30,000 fire departments in the United States that held this Class I

rating; only two of those 68 were from the state of Connecticut. Your Class I rating means that you

pay the lowest insurance premium that is possible for your residency and place of business due to

the second to none efforts of your fire department and public works employees. Secondly, the

department is striving towards continuous improvement by making decisions based on data. This is

accomplished by analyzing data sets that are presented through our FIRESTAT program which is a

performance management matrix uniquely designed for and by the Hartford Fire Department. The

management of data sets is critically important especially taking into consideration that we

experienced our busiest year in our 153 years of existence in 2016 with a total of 27,267calls for

service.

Another key initiative that was championed in 2016 was the mandatory participation of live

fire training by all members of the department. This is the first time that this has been accomplished

in our department in a number of years. We have also restructured our in service proficiency training

program, signed numerous Memorandums of Understating that has contributed to the betterment of

our department, and finally, completed the department’s first professional development program.

Furthermore, the department continues to use ingenuity to develop and maintain strong regional ties

in an effort to protect residents, visitors and stakeholders of the state’s capital city. We continue to

offer mutual aid to our neighbors as well as host training opportunities which we graciously invite

our regional partners to when there is an opportunity to do so. 2016 was a challenging year for us

all; however, the brave and heroic men and women of Hartford Fire Department met these challenges

head on and consistently performed exceptionally well for the citizens and visitors of our beloved

city. As we move forward in 2017, your dedicated and steadfast fire fighters join me in embracing

the challenges that we may be faced with throughout this year. Please feel free to contact my office if

you should have any questions or comments that pertain to your fire department. Thank you and be

safe.

Sincerely,

Reginald D. Freeman 37th Chief of Department City of Hartford

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341 337 336

293 291272 264 262 262 261 260 259 257 257

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

350

400

Suppression Personnel by Month

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Under Supervision by the Assistant Fire Chief of Emergency Services Darren

Hudson, the Division is responsible for delivering the core services of Fire

Suppression, Emergency Medical Services, Technical Rescue and Hazardous

Materials response. These services are performed by seventeen (17) companies

which consist of eleven (11) engine companies, five (5) ladder companies, and one

(1) tactical unit. Each company has a geographic first due area of responsibility.

The City is divided into two districts which are called Fire District 1 and Fire District

2. Each District is supervised by a Deputy Fire Chief and they are assigned a Deputy

Fire Chief’s Aide. These services are maintained 24 hours a day with four rotating

shifts of suppression personnel working a twenty- four (24) hour shift.

Four Year Comparison

2013 2014

2015 2016

Total Incidents

23,054 22,196 23,829 27,267

Fire Incidents

585 566 702 760

EMS Incidents

16,433 15,563 16,797 19,499

Civilian Fire Deaths

2 2 2 1

Civilian Fire Injuries

9 9 3 16

Firefighter Deaths

0 1 0 0

Firefighter Injuries

58 42 43 23

Fire Loss

$4,870,973 $6,312,244 $7,569,294 $4,833,272

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Geographical Information

First Line

Apparatus Summary

11 Engines 5 Ladders

1 Heavy Rescue 1 Marine Unit

1 Rehabilitation Unit 1 Hazmat Trailer

1 Decontamination Unit 1 Fire Investigation Unit

The Hartford Fire Department (HFD)

provides Fire and Emergency services to the

City of Hartford, Connecticut. These services

are provided by the 250 career personnel

who staff 17 Fire Companies which are

distributed throughout the City in 12

stations. The HFD is an ISO Class 1 rated

agency, consistently working to achieve the

highest level of professionalism and

efficiency on behalf of those it serves and is

currently pursuing accreditation through the

Commission on Fire Accreditation

International (CFAI).

Population Square Miles

City of Hartford 125,211 18.4

Hartford Metro Area 879,835 735.4

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Total Runs by Company

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Engine Company 1 Engine 1, Ladder 6

197 Main Street Total Runs: 6,562

Engine Company 2 Engine 2, District 2 1515 Main Street Total Runs: 7,315

Station 12 TAC Unit, District 1

275 Pearl St Total Runs: 8,858

Engine Company 5 Engine 5

129 Sigourney St Total Runs: 3,836


721 Park St Total Runs: 3,488


181 Clark St Total Runs: 4,375

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Engine Company 9

Engine 9 655 New Britain Ave

Total Runs: 1,438


510 Franklin Ave Total Runs: 2,624


150 Sisson Ave Total Runs: 5,759


25 Blue Hills Ave Total Runs: 4,739


8 Fairfield Ave Total Runs: 4,856


636 Blue Hills Ave Total Runs: 1,127

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10

7

16

13

9

20

12

14

6

11

7

10

100.00%

85.71%

100.00%

92.31%

100.00%95.00%

100.00%

100.00%

83.33%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

0.00%

20.00%

40.00%

60.00%

80.00%

100.00%

120.00%

0

5

10

15

20

25

Structure FiresYear 2016

Total Calls NFPA 1710 4 Minutes or Less

1417 1384

15871653 1624

16911781

1688 16581712

1586

1707

1284 1218 1440 1500 1448 1510 1646 1535 1499 1531 1450 1534

133 166 147 153 176 181 135 153 159 181 136 173

90.61%

88.01%

90.74%

90.74%

89.16%89.30%

92.42%

90.94%

90.41%

89.43%

91.42%

89.87%

85.00%

86.00%

87.00%

88.00%

89.00%

90.00%

91.00%

92.00%

93.00%

0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

1400

1600

1800

2000

EMS Response City WideYear 2016

Total Less than 4 Greater Than 4 Percentage Of 4 Min or less

*NFPA 1710 Travel Time

*NFPA 1710 Travel Time

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Under the Supervision of Frank P. Costello, the Assistant Fire Chief of Support

Services, this division provides support for the delivery of Emergency Services,

Training, Prevention, Education, Communications, Technology, Finance, and

Apparatus & Equipment Maintenance. Additional duties include Grants

management, Accreditation and Insurance Services Office Compliance and lastly,

labor relations & personnel management.

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Executive Office

The Executive Office is a vital and

necessary feature of the Fire Chief’s office.

This office engages in duties and functions

that vary in nature and require an in-

depth understanding of the Fire

Department.

This office is also responsible for

the procurement and dissemination of all

uniforms, protective clothing, and firefighting equipment required by the

organization. The Executive Office is responsible for providing for the “day-to-day”

maintenance of the firehouses as well as the re-supply of all necessary supplies.

Furthermore, there is constant collaboration between the Executive Office

and with the Management Services Unit. We are instrumental in determining the

budget needs of the department in the following areas: uniforms, maintenance

needs, contractor services, protective equipment. The Executive Office is involved

with the “bidding” process necessary for the procurement of these items through

the purchasing procedures that are mandated by the City.

Lastly, this office acts as the official Public Information Officer for the

department which disseminates and distributes information to all media outlets.

Current and future projects that are being worked on by the Executive Office:

Successfully oversaw a kitchen upgrade and quality of life enhancement at fire station 11

Worked in conjunction with house captains and Pest control vendor to eliminate and/or reduce the number of rodents in the workplace.

Streamlined the number of HVAC and plumbing vendors to ensure quality of work and consistency in work performance.

Secured “Capital Improvement” money for the repair of a retaining wall in the basement of Engine 15.

Ensured that preventive maintenance was completed on boilers and furnaces in October and November so that HVAC systems were running efficiently prior to the winter months.

With assistance from Special Services and the Office of the Chief, have increased the amount of followers on social media

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Employee Assistance Program

The Employee Assistance Program office works in conjunction with Pathways

EAP, our contracted EAP Provider. Our function is to address and administer

assistance to employees and family members of the Hartford Fire Department in any

problems and concerns that may affect job performance or well-being. Examples of

these may comprise of, but not be limited to: Substance Abuse and Addiction,

Gambling, Marital Problems, Child Concerns, Finance, and Grief Counseling.

Additionally, EAP addresses Critical Incident exposure as Peer and Clinical Support

and provides counseling with Pathways in the form of defusing, debriefing, or any

other means recommended by the responding clinical staff from Pathways,

depending on the incident.

As the Ryan White Officer for the Hartford Fire Department, this office

responds to incidents or facilities that department members may have been exposed

to possible harmful substances. This is to insure that Federal and State mandates

are followed and adhered to by healthcare facilities in regards to providing

pertinent information about the substance in question and offering treatment if

warranted.

Other duties of this office include coordinating and implementing the OSHA

mandated physical examinations for department members. These include an exam

for rank and file Members to be conducted by the member’s personal physician in a

time span determined by the examining physician, no less than every three years.

Also, for approximately ninety department members that are certified Hazardous

Material Technicians, OSHA mandates that an annual physical examination is

conducted. These are completed through our occupational health office at St. Francis

hospital. Furthermore, this office manages the required annual tuberculosis

screening for department members, as well as the optional influenza inoculations

for not only our members, but their families as well.

The overall goal of the EAP coordinator is to promote well-being and a safe,

healthy, and fulfilling career to the membership of the Hartford Fire Department.

Both on the job, but also at home as well.

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Community Risk Reduction Division

The goal of the Community Risk Reduction Division (CRRD) is to prevent and

minimize the loss of life and property from fire and other emergencies through

comprehensive inspection/code enforcement, engineering, education, and

investigations that are reflective of the mission of the Hartford Fire Department.

To accomplish our goal, CRRD is comprised of two units, the Fire Marshal's Office (FMO) that consists of a Fire Marshal, two Deputy Fire Marshal’s, and six Fire Prevention Lieutenants as well as the Special Services Unit (SSU) which is comprised of two Lieutenants.

INSPECTIONS/CODE ENFORCEMENT

The Fire Marshal and his designees are required by State Law to inspect all buildings within their jurisdiction based upon the Inspection Schedule set forth in the Ct. General Statues 29-291 and 29-292 and also the Department of Public Safety Regulations 29-291-7 and 29-292-7e. For the year of 2016, the FMO conducted over 3,500 inspections.

To accomplish this, the FMO personnel utilized numerous documents

including but not limited to the CT. State Fire Code with CT. Amendments, the CT.

Fire Prevention Code, and other Regulatory Codes adopted by the Department of

Public Safety. Personnel are trained and certified by the State of CT. Department of

Public Safety in Code Enforcement and by NFPA 1031, Professional Qualifications of

Fire Inspector and are continually attending classes to maintain this certification

and knowledge of the Codes as they relate to Fire and Life Safety.

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ENGINEERING

Within the Engineering portion,

members of the FMO conduct plan reviews of

new and existing buildings that are either

being built or renovated to ensure that

submitted documents conform to the

appropriate Fire and Life Safety Codes.

Members of the FMO work closely with the

members Department of Licenses and

Inspections (L&I) to ensure code compliance.

FMO personnel will also include and meet with members of the Suppression

Division to ensure that they are aware of new construction projects and renovations

to existing buildings and that any potential operational needs are addressed in the

event of an emergency.

Upon completion of the work, members of the FMO will witness operational

acceptance testing on all Fire and Life Safety Systems to ensure proper operational

function in the event of an emergency.

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS AND EXPLOSIVES

Hazardous materials inspections such as service

stations, temporary heating installations, and fuel oil tank

vehicles are inspected to ensure compliance with the

appropriate State Regulations.

The FMO also approves permits for the use of

explosives, pyrotechnic, and firework displays in

accordance with State regulations and statues and in

accordance with NFPA 1124 and 1126.

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Members will conduct site inspections

of pyrotechnics and fireworks to ensure

proper distances from the audiences are met

and that the set-up, storage and display are

compliant and will remain on site until these

displays are over.

Explosive permits are granted to a

select few companies that conduct work in the

City Of Hartford. The main purpose is to clean

and remove build-up of debris within a large

furnace used for trash to energy.

INVESTIGATIONS

The members of the FMO are

trained and certified by the Department

of Public Safety in accordance with NFPA

1033, Professional Qualifications of Fire

Investigators and NFPA 921, Guide to Fire

and Explosion Investigations to

determining origin and cause of fires and

explosions.

Members conduct investigations of all

fires that occur in the City of Hartford and put in

writing their findings on the origin and cause of

these fires. These reports are critical in

determining whether the performance

measures set by the Chief of the Department are

being met, whether additional types of Public

Education are required to reduce the numbers

of fires and injuries, and for the potential of

product recalls.

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Four Detectives of the Hartford Police Department’s Major Crimes Unit are

trained and certified in investigations. These detectives supplement the Fire

Investigation program.

Their primary role is to conduct criminal investigations if the fire or

explosion is determined to be incendiary or intentional in nature. For the year 2016,

several individuals were arrested on arson related charges.

Also assisting the program if needed is

members of the CT. State Fire Marshal’s Office

Investigation and Enforcement Unit. These are

sworn State Troopers with Origin and Cause

determination and also have 4 trained

accelerant detection canines. These canines

have the ability to locate areas where

flammable or combustible liquids have been

used to increase the fire’s destructive

capability.

EXPLORER PROGRAM

This is a worksite-based program

for young men and women who are

between the age of 14 and 20 years

old. The Hartford Fire Explorer Post helps

youth gain insight into a variety of

programs that offer hands-on career

activities for young men and women who

are interested in careers in the field of fire

service. Exploring offers experiential

learning with lots of fun filled hands-on

activities. This helps to promote the

growth and development of adolescent

youth. The Hartford Fire Explorer Post #1

is a program sponsored by the Hartford

Fire Department and the Boy Scouts of America.

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PUBLIC EDUCATION

Within the CRRD, the SSU delivers the “public fire and life safety” component

to the community. This unit is comprised of one Captain and two Lieutenants.

This Unit’s mission is to conduct various types of

Public Safety presentations at schools, day-cares,

elderly housing, and public events for fire prevention

and injury reduction. In 2016, the SSU reached a total of

52,685 adults and 38,689 children.

Programs delivered are the “Learn Not to Burn”

curriculum, “Be Cool about Fire Safety”, from Allstate

Insurance, the “Risk Watch Injury Reduction Safety

Program”, E.D.I.T.H Program for children and

“Remembering When” and lastly, “Mas Vale Prevenir

Que Lamentar Programs” for seniors.

Our public education program is also delivered by station visits by school

children who meet the men and women of the Fire Department.

The SSU also assists the public with car seat and smoke detector installations.

In 2016, 121 car seats and 1,133 smoke detectors were installed.

Another education component is the

annual Fire Prevention Poster Contest in which

winners from the 5th and 6th grades are chosen

to be finalists for the “State of Connecticut Fire

Prevention Calendar.”

Along with public education, this unit

also handles those young adults and children

identified as Juvenile Firesetters. Those

identified during fire investigations as starting

fires are referred to them for education about fire setting and the consequences of

those actions.

Along with the educational component, members of the SSU also assist

residents who have been displaced by fires. They coordinate with the American Red

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Cross to ensure that those displaced receive temporary housing, food and a clothes

voucher. In 2016, the SSU assisted in relocating 215 families consisting of 358 adults

and 144 children.

CADET PROGRAM

The division also oversees our cadet

program who range in age from 18 to 24 and

must be enrolled in a college program. Cadets

are trained in basic firefighting to prepare

them for upcoming recruit classes. At this time

there are six cadets enrolled in the program.

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Training Division

The Training Division is comprised of a Deputy Chief, two Captains and four

Lieutenants. The Training Division assures that all department members possess

the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and effectively fulfill the mission of the

Hartford Fire Department. To accomplish this, the Training Division is divided into

two units, E.M.S. (emergency medical services) and Fire. Each section of the training

division is supervised by a Captain and supported by two Lieutenants. In 2016 the

Training Division presented 1,689 classes for a total of 2,710 personnel trained.

FIRE UNIT

The Fire Unit is headed by a

Captain and has two (2) permanently

assigned lieutenants to help oversee

operations of the unit. They are

responsible for Officer Training, Drivers

Training, and other specialized training

such as Confined Space Rescue, Rapid

Intervention Training, High-Rise

Training, Live Fire, Swimming, and Boat

training.

E.M.S UNIT

The Emergency Medical Services

Training unit is headed by a Captain

with two (2) permanently assigned

lieutenants. They are responsible for

providing the initial and continuing

education necessary to maintain the State of Connecticut’s Department of Health’s

certifications for Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) for all department members.

128

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Emergency Medical Responder…

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Hazardous Materials Operational

Hazardous Materials Technician

Driver Training

Confined Space

Live Fire

Live Fire Officer

New Lieutenant Training

Core Rescue

Trench Technician Rescue

Rules of Engagement Firefighter

Fules of Engagement Company…

Swimming

Pak Tracker for SCBA

EMS Protocol Training

Train the Trainer for Bail Out Kits

Fire Instructor 1 Training

Alernative Fuel Vehicles Training

Total Personnel Trained by Subject for Year 2016

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TRAINING FACILITY/TRAINING GROUNDS

The training facility includes a natural gas emergency field, a pump house and

cistern, a six story training tower, a two and half story live burn building, flash-over

simulator, roof simulator, and an administrative building. The training facilities are

utilized extensively year round for various types of training by the Hartford Fire

Department and outside agencies.

ADMINISTRATIVE BUILDING

This building is used by the Training

Division staff to perform their daily duties. It

includes office space, classrooms,

shower/locker room facilities, EMS storage

space, and four (4) storage trailers used to

house various training equipment. The

grounds are also able to accommodate a

static course for driver’s training.

BURN BUILDING

Our burn building is two and a half

stories with an attic and a full basement. We

are able to burn class A combustibles in the

basement, first and second floors only. The

basement and second floor has the same layout,

one large open space with two means of

entrance and egress, while the first floor has

seven (7) rooms to allow for a wide variety of

training opportunities. The building was

renovated in 2016

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TRAINING TOWER

Our tower is a six story masonry structure with a fire escape which we use to simulate high rise emergency operations and as a physical conditioning tool. The various opening on each floor gives us the versatility to perform other training evolutions. In 2016 a new fire escape was installed and repairs inside the tower were made. ROOF SIMULATOR

The roof simulator is a wooden structure

which has a replaceable cutout section that allows

the training staff to conduct roof operations

training in a relatively controlled and safe

environment.

GAS FIELD

Our gas field is designed for us

to simulate several different gas

emergencies. The gas field in 2016

was repaired and certified by

Connecticut Natural Gas.

PUMP HOUSE AND CISTERN

This structure is mainly used to conduct

yearly hose testing and apparatus pump

testing. The cistern is also used to conduct

confined space rescue training.

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FLASHOVER SIMULATOR

The Flashover Simulator is a two level

metal container where firefighters can enter and

experience the conditions leading up to and

including a fire behavioral event called Flashover

under controlled conditions.

MULTI-PURPOSE TRAINING SIMULATOR

Built in 2016, the Multi-Purpose building is used for a

variety of training revolutions such as Search and Rescue,

Confined Space training, Live Fire, Forcible Entry, Ladder

Operations, etc.

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Fire Alarm Communications & Technology Division

The Fire Alarm Communication & Technology (FACT) Division supports the

Fire Department’s Emergency Services and Support Services Divisions through

state-of-the-art technology. The Division is a critical component of the Department’s

ability to maintain its Class 1 rating to achieve its next goal, to obtain the coveted

status as an accredited agency from the Commission on Fire Accreditation

International. The Division has evolved from its early days as linemen running fire

alarm cable to maintaining fire alarm circuits that protect hospitals, schools, and

apartment buildings. The Division maintains all department computers including

mobile data computers in the apparatus. The Division maintains the department’s

automatic vehicle-locating programs (AVL) with GPS, and the Firehouse® Software

records management system. The Division is staffed by 3 people: Superintendent,

and 2 technicians to maintain Fire Suppression Equipment, Fire Alarm Radio Master

Boxes, Traffic Signals, and Computer Support.

FIRE ALARM MAINTENANCE

The Fire Alarm portion of our duties include; 166 buildings with Radio

Master Boxes that we supervise, assist with installation, repair and testing of the

Radio Master Box System. We provide administrative, supervision, installation,

repair and testing of emergency dispatch alarm transmission and reception systems,

which include primary fire house alert system, and printers. The Division interfaces

with Emergency Services & Telecommunications to maintain department radios.

The Division supports the KNOX-BOX® Rapid Entry System providing non-

destructive emergency access to commercial and residential property.

P a g e | 28

TRAFFIC SIGNAL MAINTENANCE

The Division’s duties include;

administration, supervision, installation,

programming, repair and testing of traffic

systems: 270 traffic intersections containing

traffic signal controller and traffic signals,

pedestrian signals, video vehicle- detection

cameras, microwave vehicle detectors, in-

pavement vehicle detectors and

underground and aerial traffic interconnect

cables between each traffic intersection and

the central computer. In 2016, FACT

responded to 1,171 traffic complaints.

The Division is responsible for Hartford's traffic systems by marking the

location of underground utilities for contractors using the "Call Before You Dig"

Program. Over 3,300 “Call Before You Dig” requests were reviewed in 2016.

COMPUTER SYSTEMS

The maintenance of computer systems has many elements, from the

traditional desktop and laptop service to Mobile Data Computers (MDC.). In 2016,

84 new personal computers were installed, 4 new servers were commissioned into

service and a change in wireless configuration saved the City over $3,000.00.

In each fire apparatus is a mobile data computer with a preloaded map of the

city. The map will automatically identify the exact building as soon as the call is

generated to dispatch, displaying an aerial image of the building, building number,

hazardous materials, hydrants, water mains, and speed bumps. Furthermore, for the

year 2016, firefighters now have the capability to access Firehouse® Software.

P a g e | 29

Equipment Maintenance Division

The Equipment Maintenance Division maintains fire department apparatus,

tools and technologies. The Division reduces apparatus down time through a

preventive maintenance program. The Equipment Maintenance Division maintains

the Department’s non-personnel resources in a constant state of readiness, and

provides support to the departments Emergency Services and Support Services

Divisions.

DIVISION OVERVIEW The Equipment Maintenance Division

performs maintenance on the Fire Department

apparatus, support vehicles, Self-Contained

Breathing Apparatus, roof and chain saws,

firefighting equipment, fire hose and nozzles,

lawn care equipment, firehouse generators and

fire apparatus fueling stations.

Duties include filling of Oxygen cylinders, Self-

Contained Breathing Apparatus cylinders and

servicing of department fire extinguishers. The

Division responds to emergency scenes to provide

support or assistance as needed.

FIRE EQUIPMENT MECHANIC

The Fire Equipment Superintendent, Supervisor

and 4 Mechanics hold certifications and training in

Self-contained Breathing Apparatus Maintenance and

Overhaul (SCBA), Emergency Vehicle Technician (EVT), Automotive Service

Excellence (ASE), Hybrid Batteries and Energy Management, Regenerative braking

and High Voltage Accessories, Hale Pump Service and Maintenance/ Repair, State of

Connecticut Fire Academy Basic Pump Testing, Pierce Chassis and Ferrara Electrical

Systems, Cairns Helmet repairs Fleet Pro Air Brake System and Haldex Air Brake

Inspector. Requirements placed on the division are that all personnel are

P a g e | 30

knowledgeable in pluming, electronics, welding and fabrication, hydraulics, and the

ability to see problems with equipment and determine if or what repair is needed.

FIRE HOSE AND GROUND LADDER REPAIR AND TESTING

The Shop supervises yearly fire hose and

ground ladder testing. The hose testing is

mandated under NFPA 1962 Standard for the

Inspection, Care, and Use of Fire Hose,

Couplings, and Nozzles and the Service Testing

of Fire Hose.

The Standard for Ladder testing is

NFPA 1932 Standard on use, Maintenance, and

Service Testing of In-Service Fire Department

Ground Ladders. All ground ladder and fire

hose repairs are performed by the EMD and

retested before being put back in service.

AERIAL TOWER LADDER

Aerial ladder testing is mandated by

NFPA 1914 Standard for Testing. Fire

Department Aerial Devices. The annual testing

is performed by a third-party outside licensed

vendor. The EMD personnel are trained by the

Sutphen Corp. and perform major repairs.

There are only 6 fire department repair shops

given this authority.

P a g e | 31

ANNUAL PUMP TESTING

All Fire Department apparatus with fire pumps are under a required

mandated annual pump test. The mandate for testing is NFPA 1911 Standard for the

Inspection, Maintenance, Testing, and Retirement of In-Service Automotive Fire

Apparatus. The required mandate is performed by the EMD.

SELF-CONTAINED BREATHING APPARATUS (SCBA)

All of the Fire Department and Police Bomb Squad’s SCBA are maintained by

EMD. Maintenance and testing is done annually. The SCBA maintenance is

mandated by NFPA 1981 Standard on Open-Circuit Self-Contained Breathing

Apparatus (SCBA) for Emergency Service. EMD personnel are certified in overhaul,

maintenance and repair.

FIT TESTING SCBA AND HEPA

OSHA Standards 1910 Appendix A to1910.134: Fit

Testing Procedures mandate how and when fit testing is

performed. The EMD performs all annual HEPA and SCBA

fitting. The fit testing is performed in the shop or on the

road using a mobile testing vehicle. The testing is performed

on all uniformed fire department personnel and Hartford

Police Bomb Squad members.

RESCUE EQUIPMENT

The Department’s rescue equipment is made up of Hurst Power units, “O”

cutters, spreaders, power rams and confined space rescue equipment. The rescue

equipment is carried on the tower ladders and the Tactical Unit. All rescue

equipment is maintained by the EMD.

P a g e | 32

FRONT LINE APPARATUS

The Division maintains a front line

fleet of 11 pumpers, 5 tower ladders, 1

heavy rescue and 2 district cars. The goal

of the division is to keep the fleet up and

ready to perform 24/7 365 days a year.

With the net value of the front line at

$8,660,000.00 the responsibly is the

number one task for the division.

SECONDARY FLEET

The Fire Department has a secondary fleet of 2 pumpers, 2 tower ladders, 1

heavy rescue and 1 district SUV. The secondary fleet is used to replace the first line

fleet as it is removed from service for scheduled maintenance; break downs,

accidents and shorts term change over for unscheduled repairs.

RESERVE FLEET

2 pumper, 1 tower ladder, 1 district SUV and the secondary heavy rescue

make up the reserve fleet. The apparatus is fully stocked and ready to be put into

service. The fleet’s main function is for call back of personnel for additional man

power in the event of long term incidents and mutual aid task force. The fleet is also

used for special events and short term overtime.

SPECIALIZED RESPONSE VEHICLES

The fleet of specialized equipment is maintained by the EMD as well. The fleet

is made up of a Firefighter Rehabilitation Unit, Mass Decontamination Trailer and

Prime Mover, K3500 GMC pick-up used to pull the State owned Foam trailer, Sea-

Ark fire rescue boat with a 500 gpm fire pump and a Freightliner M2106 used to

pull the Haz-Mat trailer.

P a g e | 33

SUPPORT VEHICLES

The Departments Support Fleet consist of 23 SUVs, 4 full size sedans, 3

pickups, 2 box trucks, 5 vans, 2 bucket trucks, 1 platform truck and 5 small and mid-

size sedans. The shop maintains the fleet through its Preventive Maintenance

program. The vehicles are serviced every 6 months and oil changed at 3,000 to

5,000 miles. All fabrication and outfitting of special equipment has been installed by

the shop.

EMS/SPECIAL EVENT VEHICLES

The Department has 5 special event

Kawasaki 610 mules ATV’s. 4 of the mules are

outfitted with warning lights car horns and

spotlights. The mules are tracked by AVL/GIS;

the 4 have a designation named EMS-1, EMS-2,

EMS-3, and EMS-4. The fifth mule is assigned to

the FMO office and is used for vendor inspection

at large events.

REHAB VEHICLE

The current rehab bus in service is a

1985 International school bus with 225,000

miles. The EMD has acquired a 2001 Thomas

school bus to replace the current bus. The

outfitting and all fabrication of equipment will

be performed by EMD personnel. The

fabrication of seating, counter space and

cabinets is a time consuming job but very cost

effective. The projected date for completion is

winter 2017. Estimated cost for project

$22,000.

P a g e | 34

Strategic Planning Division

The Strategic Planning Unit serves as the financial operations center for the department; this unit is responsible for scheduling and time tracking for the purpose of payroll, budget management and data analysis. Long term strategic initiatives, seeking and managing grants and general department information fall within the scope of this unit as well. Accounts receivable, accounts payable, requisitions, personnel actions and worker's compensation cases are handled by the two civilian employees. The unit is overseen by a Captain; they provide support to the departments’ emergency and support services programs.

P a g e | 35

Interaction with Public Agencies

The Hartford Fire Department interacts with numerous public and private

agencies while providing daily operations. Public interaction includes contact with

government officials. Contacts include but not limited to Hartford Police

Department, Public Works, Health & Human Services, Department of Emergency

Management Homeland Security, Capital Region Council of Governments, Alcohol

Tobacco and Firearms, and National Fire Protection Agency.

Interaction with Private Agencies

The department interacts with numerous private agencies, local businesses,

neighborhood groups, schools, churches, civic associations, Hospitals, the Salvation

Army, and the American Red Cross.

Community Emergency Response Team Making Strides Against Breast Cancer

The Hartford Insurance Group during Fire Prevention Week

P a g e | 36

Promotions

Rank Name Promoted to

Captain Garrahy, Thomas District Chief

Captain Dempsey, Michael District Chief

Captain Ericson, Brendan District Chief

Captain Russo, Alfred District Chief

Captain Tulier, Harry District Chief

Captain Dalton, Thomas District Chief

Rank Name Promoted

To

Firefighter Kureczka, David Lieutenant

Firefighter St. Pierre,

Randal Lieutenant

Firefighter Lasalle, Brian Lieutenant

Firefighter Carter, Roman Lieutenant

Firefighter Ruggerio, Mark Lieutenant

Firefighter Sharkevich,

Gary Lieutenant

Firefighter Morgan, Ramon Lieutenant

Firefighter Cafazzo, John Lieutenant

Firefighter Mitchell, Lamar Lieutenant

Firefighter Arroyo, Luis Lieutenant

Firefighter Ouellette, Thomas

Lieutenant

Firefighter Barco, Jason Lieutenant

Firefighter Diaz, Jason Lieutenant

Firefighter Nickson, Travon Lieutenant

Ladder Driver Pagan, Gerardo Lieutenant

Ladder Driver Salvador, Luis Lieutenant

Ladder Driver Stevens, Daniel Lieutenant

Pump Operator

Guglietta, John Lieutenant

Pump Operator

Joiner, Kevin Lieutenant

Pump Operator

Rodriguez, Valentin

Lieutenant

Pump Operator

Lewis, Terrell Lieutenant

Pump Operator

Orozco, Johnny Lieutenant

Rank Name Promoted To

PO Mann, Henry DC/Aide


Lieutenant Tenney, Ian Captain

Lieutenant Fierravanti, Rocco Captain

Lieutenant Guertin, Adam Captain

Lieutenant Patrissi, Richard Captain

Lieutenant Ortiz, Raul Captain

Lieutenant Healis, Anthony Captain

Lieutenant Kowal, Kenneth Captain

Lieutenant Barco, Rodney Captain

Lieutenant Nolan, John Captain

Lieutenant Murray, Dennis Captain

Lieutenant Cunningham, Scott Captain

Lieutenant Lupoli, Ryan Captain

Lieutenant Training

Vazquez, Alberto Captain

To District Chiefs

To Captains

To Lieutenant

To Captains

To Deputy Chief Aide

To Captains

P a g e | 37

Promotions


Firefighter Stevens, Daniel Ladder Driver

Firefighter Digiacomo,

Michael Ladder Driver

Firefighter Loura, James Ladder Driver

Firefighter DePercio, Nicholas

Ladder Driver

Pump Operator

Dingle, Desiree Ladder Driver

Pump Operator

Pereira, Joel Ladder Driver

Pump Operator

Sharkevich, Robert

Ladder Driver

Pump Operator

Quirk, Martin Ladder Driver

Pump Operator

Biffle, Henry Ladder Driver


Firefighter Closs, Richard Pump

Operator

Firefighter Shapiro, Ashley Pump

Operator

Firefighter Rodriguez,

Valentin Pump

Operator

Firefighter Freeman, Lamont Pump

Operator

Firefighter Bilbraut, Victor Pump

Operator

Firefighter Diaz, Willie Pump

Operator

Firefighter Sanchez, Riqui Pump

Operator

Firefighter Jimenez, Celestino

Pump Operator

Firefighter Eaton, James Pump

Operator


Lieutenant Fire

Marshal Sheriff, Ewan

Captain Fire Marshal


Lieutenant Training

Sisco, Gerald Captain Training


Lieutenant LeConche, Thomas Captain

Executive Officer


Lieutenant Strategic Planning

Reily, Daniel Captain

Strategic Planning

To Ladder Driver To Pump Operator

To Captain Fire Marshals To Captain Strategic Planning

To Captain Training Division To Captain Training Division

P a g e | 38

Promotions


Supervisor FACT

Henry, Christopher

Superintendent FACT

Rank Name Promoted

To

FIREFIGHTER Bolduc, Timothy Lieutenant

Training

Pump Operator

Rodriguez, Valentin

Lieutenant Training


Supervisor EMD

Madden, Daniel Superintendent

EMD


Mechanic Tarasek, Stephen Supervisor


Craig, Shawn Mechanic

EMD

To Lieutenant Training

Division To Superintendent FACT

Division

To Superintendent EMD

Division

To Supervisor EMD Division

To Mechanic EMD Division

P a g e | 39

RetireMents

Rank Name Years of Service

Retirement Date

Chief Huertas, Carlos 35+ 1/13/2016

Rank Name Years

of Service

Retirement Date

District Chiefs

Borowski, Theodore

29+ 6/11/2016

District Chiefs

Serpliss, David

29+ 5/21/2016

District Chiefs

Shapiro, Leigh

28+ 6/22/2016

District Chiefs

Guiliano, Anthony

26+ 5/25/2016

District Chiefs

Cooper, Clifton

22+ 6/11/2016

District Chiefs

Towey, Peter

22+ 6/25/2016

Rank Name Years

of Service

Retirement Date

DC/Aide Wright, Terry

21+ 6/11/2016

DC/Aide Mann, Henry

20+ 6/24/2016

Rank Name Years

of Service

Retirement Date

Captain Turner, Frederick

35+ 9/15/2016

Captain Lynch, Helene

29+ 5/27/2016

Captain Partridge, Joseph

26+ 5/9/2016

Captain Cieri, Catharine

21+ 6/22/2016

Captain Fierravanti, Rocco

21+ 5/13/2016

Captain LeConche, Thomas

21+ 5/20/2016

Captain Singleton, Kevin

20+ 1/8/2016

Captain Diaz, Edwin

22 6/8/2016

Chief of the Hartford Fire

Department

Deputy Chiefs Captains

District Chief Aide

P a g e | 40

RetireMents

Rank Name Years

of Service

Retirement Date

Firefighters Albert, Levine

35+ 1/30/2016

Firefighters Rivera, Alberto

28+ 6/4/2016

Firefighters Lumis, Arnold

27+ 1/16/2016

Firefighters Sanchez, Enrique

22+ 6/24/2016

Firefighters Vendetta,

Jeffrey 21+ 3/8/2016

Firefighters Marchetti,

Carlo 20+ 5/10/2016

Firefighters Martin, Ralph

17+ 1/15/2016


Retirement Date

Ladder Drivers

Cavanaugh, Kurt

33+ 6/6/2016

Ladder Drivers

Depercio, Bruce

22+ 6/14/2016

Ladder Drivers

Jones, Terry

21+ 6/22/2016

Ladder Drivers

Lopez, Edwin

34 6/2/2016

Ladder Drivers

Reidy, Kevin

21+ 6/25/2016

Ladder Drivers

Wallner, Frederick

22+ 6/9/2016

Rank Name Years

of Service

Retirement Date

Pump Operator

Rodriguez, Juan

35+ 6/10/2016

Pump Operator

Hendron, Joseph

29+ 6/11/2016

Pump Operator

Squiers, Matthew

26+ 6/11/2016

Pump Operator

Carneiro, Eric

22+ 6/10/2016

Pump Operator

Walsh, Mark

21+ 6/17/2016

Pump Operator

Watrous, John

15+ 5/25/2016


Retirement Date

Superintendent Smith,

Michael 20+ 6/24/2016


Retirement Date

Senior Clerk

Jackson, Serena 33+ 6/24/2016

Firefighters

Ladder Drivers

Pump Operators Superintendent of Equipment

Maintenance Division

Senior Clerk Typist

P a g e | 41

“WE MAY NOT BE

THE BEST……BUT

THERE IS NO ONE BETTER.”

- Francis Zazzaro, Retired Hartford Firefighter

1955-1980 (Engine 4 & Engine 10)

P a g e | 42

Mayor

Luke A. Bronin

Chief Operating Officer

Bonnie J. Malley

Fire Chief

Reginald D. Freeman

Assistant Chief

Frank P. Costello

Assistant Chief

Darren Hudson

Executive Office

Captain Raul Ortiz

Division Heads

Fire Marshal Roger Martin, Fire Prevention

Division

Deputy Chief William Kerr, Training Division

Superintendent Christopher Henry,

Fire Alarm Comm. Tech. Division

Superintendent Daniel Madden,

Equipment Maintenance Division

Emergency Services and Support Services

The Men and Women of the Hartford Fire

Department

Editing By

Fire Alarm Comm. Tech. Leandro E. Cieri

Jim Peruta: Jim Peruta has been

involved with fire photography for

over 35 years. Over the years he has

traveled throughout New England

and the metropolitan New York area

to buff fires and attend firematic

events. He has been involved with

the Connecticut Fire Photographers

Association from the inception of

the organization.

Patrick Dooley: Patrick Dooley is a

retired East Hartford firefighter

currently working as a public safety

dispatcher. He is also a member of

the Boston Sparks Assoc. and

Connecticut Fire Photographers.

Special Thanks

Documents

City of hartford fire department · P a g e | 2 Five years from now, the Hartford Fire Department will be recognized as an ISO Class 1 and Internationally Accredited Fire Department