October Report

Members of the Haddam Volunteer Fire Company responded to 39 calls for emergency services in October. Here’s a breakdown of calls:

Medical Emergencies – 23
Fires, alarms etc. – 6
Motor Vehicle Accidents – 8
Other – 2

Members responded to numerous motor vehicle accidents in October, including a two-vehicle accident at the entrance of Haddam-Killingworth High School on Oct. 4, a vehicle fire on Route 9 on Oct. 7, a truck down an embankment on Route 9 on Oct. 17 and a motorcycle-car collision at the Route 154/Bridge Street intersection on Oct. 19. In all of the accidents, the motorists were evaluated by medical personnel on scene, with some transported via ambulance to Middlesex Hospital with what appeared to be non-life threatening injuries. The Connecticut State Police is investigating.

A chimney fire was reported at a residence on Beaver Meadow Road on Oct. 26. The HVFCo. crew removed a fireplace insert to gain access to the area of the chimney that they could not reach with chains. Members visually verified that the fire was extinguished, metered the house for carbon monoxide and used a Thermal Imaging Camera to check the walls for extension.

The week of October 6-12 was Fire Prevention Week. Fire Company members visited area schools to teach children about fire safety. This year’s theme was “Prevent Kitchen Fires,” an important lesson for kids – and adults.

Excavating and foundation work continued on a two-story structure being constructed behind Station 1. Four donated shipping containers are the framework of an onsite firefighter training facility.

It was with heavy hearts that members learned of the passing of Life Member Robert Cushing, who left us on Oct. 18. Bob, who joined the Fire Company in 1969, was laid to rest on Oct. 22 with full military honors.

In training news, Firefighter Jed Morrissey earned his state and national Emergency Medical Technician certifications. He is currently enrolled in the pre-Paramedic program. Lt. Peter Brown also successfully completed his Connecticut EMT certification. Congratulations also to our newest "big" apparatus operator, Firefighter Kyle Kuchyt, who passed his CDL-B practical test.

October drills included search-and-rescue and hose advancement training at a smoked-out Middletown Training Tower, and a ladder and chimney fire refresher.

Do You Have What It Takes? Find more information on the activities of the Haddam Volunteer Fire Co. and ways you can get involved at our website www.HaddamFire.com, or connect with us on Facebook.