Westport Fire Department Latest News

June 20 2010.... at approximately 3.33pm the Westport Fire Department responded to a multi vehicle accident on I 95 northbound, between exits 18 & 19. Arriving firefighters found a three car accident with a towed U haul on its’ side in the middle lane. All occupants were out of the vehicles upon arrival. Fire trucks blocked the left and center lanes to protect the scene. Firefighters evaluated all occupants for injuries. Westport EMS arrived on scene and all occupants refused transport to Norwalk Hospital. There was debris and spilled fluids from the three vehicles on the roadway, which firefighters cleaned up. State police limited traffic to the right lane for about thirty minutes until the center lane could be cleared. All vehicles were towed from the scene. CT State Police investigated the cause of the incident. The last fire department unit left the scene at 4:21 PM.

CAR FIRE ON I95 SAUGATUCK BRIDGE

June 19 2010.... The Westport Fire Department responded to a car fire on I 95 with two engines Saturday morning. The first arriving unit closed the right-hand lane verified the car was evacuated and began extinguishment. The vehicle was quickly extinguished and the driver escaped without injury. One lane of the highway remained closed for 45 minutes awaiting a tow truck. The last units cleared the highway at 10:05 AM.

WOMAN TRAPPED UNDER STAIR LIFT CHAIR

June 17 2010.... At 1:09 PM today, the Westport Fire Department responded to a report of a woman trapped under a stair lift chair in her home. Arriving firefighters were directed to the second floor where the homeowner had her foot trapped under her medical lift chair. Firefighters quickly immobilized the chair to prevent further injury and went to work to extricate her from under the lift. She was freed from the lift within ten minutes. Firefighters checked her for injury and turned her over to Westport EMS for transport to Norwalk Hospital. The woman had been attempting to use the lift to get down the stairs when she slipped, pinning her left leg and foot under the chair. Firefighters utilized the skills they had learned in a Machinery Rescue Course the entire department took within the last two years. The last Fire Department unit left the scene at 1:48 PM.

3 HOUR EXTRICATION OF TRUCK DRIVER

June 5 2010.... At 5:27 this morning the Norwalk Fire Department requested assistance from the Westport Fire Department with a tractor trailer on its side with the driver heavily trapped in the cab of the truck. The tandem tractor trailer was on its side up against a large tree and the only contact with the driver was by his elbow. Norwalk Rescue Company 2 went to work on the under side of the truck while Westport Rescue Company 3 was assigned to gain access to the driver on the side by the tree. Both companies worked in concert for 3 hours to untangle the driver using almost every available tool from both Rescue trucks. As metal was cut and pushed from the driver, Norwalk Paramedics were able to crawl into the cab and start medical treatment of the injured driver. Heavy truck wreckers were called to the scene to assist in stabilizing and lifting the truck to better gain access to the driver. All the time the rescuers were working with diesel fuel leaking from one of the ruptured tanks creating a fire hazard throughout the incident. Norwalk Paramedics remained in contact with the trauma surgeon at Norwalk Hospital coordinating the pre-hospital medical treatment of the driver. At 8:47 the driver was successfully removed from the vehicle and transported to Norwalk Hospital where his condition is unknown at this time. Westport Fire Department personnel cleared the scene at 9:42 AM.

STRUCTURE FIRE ON RICES LANE - TWO LIGHTNING STRIKES

June 3 2010.... Quick thinking actions from the occupant and workers at 15 Rices Lane this afternoon averted disaster. During a sever thunderstorm that passed through Westport, lightning struck a tree at the back of the house and followed a near-by propane line into the house and started a fire. A babysitter was in the house with small children and smelled smoke coming from the basement and decided to get everyone out of the house as she called the Fire Department. Meanwhile a worker who heard the loud bang and saw smoke coming from the basement immediately shut off the propane tank denying the fire of additional fuel. When Fire Department personnel arrived they found a moderate smoke condition on the first floor and all occupants accounted for on the front lawn. All remaining Engine companies in town were then requested to the scene as well as Fairfield Fire to cover the empty fire house. The first-in Engine Company stretched a hose line to the basement to attack the fire which was so full of smoke they had to use thermal imaging cameras to find the flames. The Truck Company was ventilating the house when they noticed that flames were coming through the floor from the basement so help was then called from Wilton Fire Department who sent an Engine Company to the scene.

When Fairfield Fire Department arrived at Fire Headquarters they were immediately put to work responding to a back log of other calls for help in town. Automatic Fire alarms sounded and another house was also struck by lightening but with limited damage to the structure. The Wilton Fire Engine on the scene was cut loose to assist Fairfield with the call volume. The Fire at 15 Rices Lane was extinguished with some structural damage to the basement and first floor with smoke damage throughout the house. The Fire Marshal determined, along with the Building Official, that the house could remain inhabitable for the occupants. Fire personnel cleared the scene at 5:26 PM.

JACKNIFED "HEINEKEN" TRACTOR TRAILER

June 1 2010.... At 6:09 PM tonight, a tractor trailer jack knifed on I 95 on the Saugatuck River Bridge. The driver escaped serious injury but was evaluated by Westport Firefighters and Westport EMS on the scene before being transported to Norwalk Hospital for further treatment. The driver of the vehicle claimed he was cut off and swerved to avoid hitting another vehicle when he lost control of the truck and hit the bridge wall. The tractor was heavily damaged and oil and diesel fuel leaked from the vehicle. Prior to the arrival of the Fire Department, several gallons of that spill leaked into the storm drains and into the Saugatuck River and the parking lot below the bridge. Upon arrival, Firefighters used speedi dri and absorbent booms and pads to prevent any further runoff of fluids into the storm drains. The Department of Enviromental Protection and the Coast Guard were notified of the spill. Firefighters slowed the flow of leaking fluids from the motor and contained the spill. Two agents from the DEP responded to the scene to facilitate the cleanup process. Connecticut Tank Removal was hired to conduct the cleanup. State DOT trucks were called to the scene to put sand on the roadway to further protect the road surface from becoming slippery from the spill. The truck was towed from the scene. The last Fire Department unit cleared the scene at 8:43 PM.

HOUSE FIRE OUT

June 1 2010.... At 12:53 AM this morning the Westport Fire Department received a call for a house fire at 100 Partrick Rd. Four engines and ladder truck and the shift commander’s vehicle responded and while en-route additional information received was that the fire was out but the house was filled with smoke. Firefighters checked the area that had burned, a small desk area with shelves, and found charring from the fire and a moderate smoke condition throughout the house. Firefighters used fans to remove the smoke and thermal imaging cameras to verify that the fire had been extinguished. The house was under renovation at the time of the fire and was occupied. Early warning of the fire by the sounding of smoke detectors in the home and the use of a fire extinguisher kept this fire to a minimum. Residents are reminded that smoke detectors safe lives and as this fire was during the night while the occupants were asleep, the early warning by a beeping smoke detector, the owner having a fire extinguisher available and the knowledge on how to use it kept this fire in check and damage to a minimum. The fire is under investigation by the Fire Marshal and the family was able to stay in the house after firefighting activities were completed. The last Fire Department vehicle left the house at 2:04 AM.

MVA AT INTERSECTION

May 29 2010.... The Westport Fire Department, along with Police and EMS, responded to the report of a 2 car motor vehicle accident with injuries at the intersection of Post Road East and Buckley Ave. North. Upon arrival we found both cars with significant front end damage and leaking fluids. The passenger of the Volkswagen was complaining of significant neck and back pain. Engine Company 5 crew assisted EMS in packaging the patient for transport while the Rescue Company used hand tools to force the car door to facilitate removal of the patient. Another occupant of the Volkswagen was treated on the scene by Fire and EMS but refused transport to the hospital. The remaining occupants of both vehicles denied treatment and transport to the hospital. The leaking fluids were contained by absorbent material and FD personnel remained on scene until both cars were safely removed by wreckers. Last FD unit cleared the scene at 7:50 pm.

TRASH FIRE

May 29 2010.... The Westport Fire Department received a call of a trash fire at the rear of 578 Post Road East at 12:12 pm. Because it was reported that the trash was up against a building, 2 Engine Companies, the Truck Company, and Shift Command Car were dispatched. The landlord for the building had come out to help the tenant, Princess Jewelers with their closing sale when it was noticed that smoke was coming from the top of a storage box at the rear of the business. The Fire Department was immediately dispatched and found a small amount of rubbish that had been placed on top of the metal storage box to be smoldering. The Engine Company laddered the box and extinguished the fire with a water extinguisher. The Truck Company removed the trash from atop of the storage box and determined that no damage to the building or the box itself. The cause remains under investigation. All units cleared the scene at 12:24 pm.

DUMPSTER FIRE

May 28 2010.... At 4:04 PM today the Westport Fire Department responded to a dumpster fire next to a house at # 10 Evergreen Ave. The Westport Police arrived first and reported a working dumpster fire next to the house but no extension to the house itself. Engine 2 from headquarters and Engine 6 from the Coleytown station responded along with the Shift Commander’s vehicle and used 1000 gallons of water to extinguish the fire. The house was checked and no fire had extended to the structure. The house was unnoccupied at the time of the fire and is undergoing major renovations. The cause of the fire is undetermined at this time. Residents and businesses are reminded that dumpsters should be placed well away from the building during construction. Had this dumpster been full at the time of the fire, extension into large picture window on the second floor could have occurred making the situation far worse.

STRUCTURE FIRE

May 17 2010.... At approximately 3 PM this afternoon the Westport Fire Department responded to a report of smoke in the building on Tamarac Road in Westport. First arriving personnel found moderate smoke issuing from the 1^st and 2^nd floors of an expanded Cape Cod style house. The homeowner, whom had just arrived home, advised Fire Personnel that the house was evacuated with the exception of a cat still inside. Fire department personnel quickly located the source of the smoke, an incipient fire burning in the kitchen, and extinguished it with an 1-1/2” hoseline. Simultaneously Firefighters from the Truck Company searched the building confirm all occupants were out and located the cat in a 2^nd floor bedroom, the cat was unharmed. The fire, which started in a plastic garbage can, was determined to be accidental in nature by the Westport Fire Marshal’s Office. Residents are reminded to dispose of oily rags properly, placing them outside in a metal garbage can or allowing them to air dry outdoors before disposing. Please read precautionary statements on the product label or contact the Fire Department if any question exists. Additionally, the Westport Fire Department strongly urges all residents to have working smoke detectors in their homes. The Westport Fire Department responded to this incident with it’s entire on-duty shift: 4 Engines, a Ladder Truck, and Shift Commander. The last fire department unit cleared the scene at 4:24 PM.

STRUCTURE FIRE

May 15 2010.... On Saturday May 15 at 6:24 PM the Westport Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire on Partrick Rd. in the area of Old Hill Rd. Additional information gave an address of house #21. Four Engines a Ladder truck and the Shift Commanders vehicle responded to the initial call, with an additional ladder truck from Norwalk requested to the scene as a Rapid Intervention Team and an Engine from Fairfield to cover fire headquarters for any additional calls in town. Westport Police arrived on scene first and the occupant reported to them that everyone was out of the house. Upon arrival a large volume of fire was visible from the rear of the building and from the front picture window. Firefighters laid a 5” supply line from a nearby hydrant and stretched (2) 2.5 inch hose lines through the front door to extinguish the fire. During the search on the second floor, firefighters located the family dog that perished in the fire. A total of twenty five firefighters from Westport and five from Norwalk were on scene. One Westport Firefighter was injured and transported to Norwalk Hospital with minor injuries. The cause of the fire is undetermined and is under investigation by the Westport Fire Marshal’s Office with assistance from Westport Police Detectives at this time. The last fire department unit left the scene at 11:30 PM.

More photos here

DUMPSTER FIRE

May 14 2010.... at approximately 1:49 am the Westport Fire Department was alerted to a dumpster fire at 10 Moss Ledge Road after a neighbor spotted flames at that location. Greens Farms Engine Company 5 and the Shift Commander initially responded and found a 30 yard dumpster on fire. Engine Company 2 from Headquarters was requested to provide water and manpower to fight the fire. An adjacent port-o-let was damaged from the heat and flames. The fire was quickly extinguished and all units cleared the scene at 2:47 am. The house is under construction at this time and not occupied. The dumpster was located away from the structure under construction. The Westport Fire Department would like to remind homeowners and contractors to never place a dumpster next to or inside a structure. They should always be placed well away from any structures or other exposures.

VEHICLE COLLIDES WITH CONSTRUCTION TRUCK

May 13 2010.... at approximately 3:16 this morningThe Westport and Norwalk Fire Department responded to a single car accident into the rear of a Signal Marking Inc construction truck. Work was being conducted on I-95 North at the time of the accident. The lone driver/ occupant of a Jeep Grand Cherokee had to be extricated from her car and transported to Norwalk Hospital for further treatment of non life threatening injuries. The driver of the construction vehicle who was in the truck at the time of the accident was also transported to the hospital for further evaluation. Fire Fighters had to contain approximately 10 to 15 gallons of diesel fuel due to a broken fuel line in the construction vehicle while awaiting arrival of a Department of Environmental Protection Representative. Clean Harbor clean up contractors were then notified to clean up the spill. The last Fire Department vehicle cleared the scene at 0505 hrs.

MVA WITH VEHICLE ON FIRE

May 13 2010.... at 10:16pm this evening the Westport Fire Department received a report of a motor vehicle accident and car fire on the Merritt Parkway north bound between exit 42 and 44. We responded with Coleytown Engine Company 6, Headquarters Engine Company 2, Rescue Company 3, and the Shift Command Car. Fairfield Fire Rescue units arrived on scene southbound at the Redding Road overpass and found a 2 car accident with one car’s engine compartment fully involved in fire. They immediately stretched a hose line across the median to attack the fire and treat the injured. The Fairfield Shift Commander requested an Engine Company from Westport for a water supply and canceled the remaining responding units. The extent of injuries was not known at this time as the injured were being treated by AMR ambulance on scene from Fairfield. All Westport Fire Department units cleared the scene at 10:30pm.

CONSTRUCTION ACCIDENT INJURES WORKER

April 29 2010....Shortly after 10 am this morning, the Westport Fire Department responded to a call for medical assistance in the Saugatuck section of town. Responding along with Westport Police and EMS, Saugatuck Engine Company arrived at a construction site and found an injured worker whom had been struck in the head with a 20’ long metal drilling pipe. Co-workers had discovered the worker lying in mud alongside a geo-thermal well drilling rig. Firefighters along with Police and EMS administered care, packaged the patient, and EMS transported the worker to Norwalk Hospital Emergency Room. Police and Fire officials remained on the scene while OSHA conducted a routine investigation. OSHA released the scene and last units cleared at 12:16 pm this afternoon.

PICKUP COLLIDES WITH TREE ON MERRITT PARKWAY

April 21 2010.... at approximately 4:34 this afternoon the Westport Fire Department and Westport EMS received a call for a motor vehicle accident with injuries, a pick up truck vs. tree with driver trapped. Engine 6 from the Coleytown fire station, Rescue 3 and the shift commander’s vehicle from Fire Headquarters responded along with the Fairfield Fire Department and AMR ambulance service to the scene. Upon arrival just south of the Merwin’s Lane overpass, the Fairfield shift commander reported a pick up truck up against the tree on the drivers side with the driver trapped and with severe injuries. He requested that the Westport units continue to the scene to assist Fairfield Firefighters with the length process of removing the driver from the vehicle. Several “jaws” of life hydraulic rescue tools were required to free the driver from the badly damaged pick up. The roof and both doors were removed to gain access to the driver and remove him so that he could be placed on a back board and transported to the hospital. After removal from the vehicle with assistance from both fire departments, AMR and Westport EMS, the driver was transported to Norwalk Hospital by AMR with serious injuries. The last fire department vehicle cleared the scene at 5:42 PM.

ROLLOVER ON POST ROAD EAST

April 13 2010.... at 4:33 PM this afternoon the Westport Fire Department along with Westport Police and EMS responded to a reported motor vehicle accident, rollover with injuries at the intersection of Post Road East and Compo Road South. Upon arrival, responding units found a Chevy Cavalier on its roof and leaning on a Saab station wagon, with the driver of the Cavalier hanging upside down by the vehicles seatbelt. Firefighters worked to stabilize the vehicle, and remove occupant onto a backboard and stretcher for transport by Westport EMS to Norwalk Hospital with minor injures. Two other parked vehicles in the parking lot of the Compo Shopping Center received minor damage as the Cavalier bounced off of them as it rolled. The Cavalier was righted and placed on a flat bed from Riverside Service Center for removal and the other three vehicles were able to drive away. Westport Police are investigating the cause of the accident.

RAILROAD TRACK FIRE DELAYS TRAINS

April 12 2010.... at approximately 8am a call came in to Westport Fire Department reporting a fire on the tracks at Westport railroad station. Initially Engine 4 from Saugatuck and the shift commander responded to the scene. Engine 4 found railroad ties on fire and called for Engine 5 to assist with water. With rail traffic either stopped or on a slow down, firefighters were able to extinguish the fire and reopen the rails shortly after all firefighters cleared the tracks.

GARAGE FIRE QUICKLY EXTINGUISHED

April 4 2010.... at approximately 1740, the Westport Fire Department responded to a report of a fire in a detached garage located at 46 Kings Highway South. The fire was contained to a pile of oil stained rags and a few cans of stain. Personal items were damaged by heat and smoke. The Westport Fire Department responded with four Engines, a Rescue and Command Car. The fire was quickly extinguished and all apparatus placed in service by 1819 hrs.

MOTORCYCLE DOWN ON I95

April 3 2010.... at 3:14 pm the Westport Fire Department received a call for a motorcycle accident on Interstate 95 southbound between exit 17 and 16. Saugatuck Engine Company 4 was first to arrive on-scene after fighting heavy traffic and found a Honda Goldwing motorcycle on it’s side up against the median. A passing American Medical Response ambulance stopped to render emergency medical attention to the injured motorcyclist. Firefighters assisted transferring the injured Massachusetts man to the AMR ambulance who then took him to the hospital. Rescue Company 3 was placed in service and returned to fire headquarters. Engine Company 4 remained on scene for approximately two hours to assist the State Police with their investigation of the accident.

LADDER TRUCK FAREWELL

March 31 2010.... early this afternoon Westport Fire Department's 17 year old ladder truck, Truck One, was hauled onto the back of a flat bed and headed to Ohio for a major refurbishment. Just a few days ago the truck was partially crushed by a falling tree while operating at a fatal accident during the Nor'Easter that hit Fairfield County. Since that accident the fire department has been operating a loaner vehicle supplied to them by Stamford Fire Rescue. The refurbished truck is expected back in Westport some time later this year.

SERIOUS FLOODING IMPACTS WESTPORT

March 30 2010.... a two day rain event dumped more that four inches of rain on Westport causing serious flooding across the town. The tremendous rainfall on top of the already saturated ground caused basements to flood, small streams to become raging rivers and the Saugatuck River to overflow it's banks. Many residents lost power once again but not on the scale of the recent outages experienced earlier this month. Fire and Police services were kept extremely busy throughout the storm.

FATAL ACCIDENT ON I95 NORTHBOUND

March 29 2010.... at approximately 10:48 this morning the Westport Fire Department responded to a multi-vehicle accident with injuries on Interstate 95 in the vicinity of Exit 17. The initial reports indicated a car versus tractor trailer with patient entrapment. Engine 4 from the Saugatuck Station along with Rescue 3 and the Shift Commander from Westport Fire Headquarters responded. Also responding on automatic mutual aid was a Rescue, Engine and Shift Commander for the Norwalk Fire Department. Upon arrival firefighters encountered an Acura sedan with it’s driver entrapped in the front seat area of the vehicle suffering life threatening injuries. Firefighters used hydraulic extrication tools to remove the driver’s door and free the patient. Westport EMS treated the patient on the scene and transported the male to Norwalk Hospital. Interstate 95 northbound remained closed for approximately 3 hours as Connecticut State Police conducted an investigation. In total 3 cars and a tractor trailer were involved in the accident, the last Westport Fire Department vehicle cleared the scene at 1:54 PM.

FIRE IN FLOOR QUICKLY EXTINGUISHED

March 16 2010.... at approximately 8pm the fire department responded to a report of smoke in the building at a residence on Guyer Road. At the same time the fire department was dealing with another reported structure fire on the other side of town and a wires down call in Saugatuck. Engine 4 responded to Guyer Road along with Chief of department Chris Ackley and Deputy Chief John Gottfried who were at Fire Headquarters dealing with storm related issues at the time. Chief Ackley arrived first and reported heavy smoke on the first floor. Engine 4 arrived shortly after and entered the house with a hose line and extinguishers. Heavy smoke was found to be pushing from an area around the fireplace and firefighters used a thermal imaging camera to determine that a fire was burning behind the wall. Firefighters started removing flooring around the affected area while ladder company personnel started opening an area beneath the fireplace and ventilating the home. As more firefighters arrived it was determined that the fire had been extinguished but an enormous amount of overhaul was necessary to ensure no re-kindle occurred. Firefighters stayed on scene for over two hours.

TREE CRUSHES FIRE DEPARTMENT LADDER TRUCK

March 13 2010.... during the Nor'easter that devastated parts of Fairfield County including the Town of Westport, firefighters responded to hundreds of calls for emergency assistance. During a particularly tragic call the fire department ladder truck was crushed by a falling tree during the concluding moments of the incident. The truck sustained an enormous amount of damage but fortunately nobody was injured during the accident.

TREE FALLS ON CAR FATALLY INJURING DRIVER

March 13 2010.... A large pine tree fell across the Park Lane roadway coming in contact with a late model Nissan Murano SUV. There were four occupants in the vehicle at the time of the accident. Three of the four victims were able to remove themselves from the vehicle prior to the arrival of the emergency services; however the driver was trapped in the car and required extrication by responding firefighters. The driver succumbed to their injuries at the scene. Westport Police, Westport EMS, and Public Works personnel, worked together to effect this rescue and attend to the three other victims of accident. The tree caused extensive damage to the roof of the vehicle and firefighters had to utilize chain saws to remove large sections of the tree before being able to use the "jaws of life" to gain access to the passenger compartment of the vehicle and reach the victim. At the time this rescue was going on winds were in excess of 65 miles per hour with driving rain.

CLOTHES DRYER FIRE FORCES EVACUATION

March 10 2010.... at approximately 0635 the Westport Fire Department received an automatic fire alarm for 25 Bayberry Lane. When the alarm alerted the home owner she immediately smelled smoke and advised the alarm company when they called the home. The Westport Fire Department was advised of the smoke condition and immediately sent 3 engines, the ladder company, and the Shift Commander. The first units to arrive found the occupants all in the front yard and accounted for as the smoke condition worsened. Firefighters entered the home using self-contained breathing apparatus and found the dryer in the basement on fire. The fire was extinguished and the dryer removed from the home by a basement door. Fire Department personnel remained on scene until 0745 to ventilate smoke from the structure. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Fire Marshal’s office. The fire was confined to the dryer to the credit of a working fire alarm system and the metal dryer vent hose. The combination of a working smoke detector and the monitored fire alarm system also gave the home owner and her children the time to get out of the house before the smoke made the house untenable.

POSTAL TRUCK CRUSHED BY FALLING TREE

March 1 2010.... at approximately 1235 the Westport Fire Department responded along with Westport Police and EMS to a reported tree onto a vehicle with wires down and arcing. Upon arrival, units found a postal delivery vehicle had been struck by a falling tree that also knocked down power lines that were arcing in the street. The postal vehicle sustained tremendous damage to the front end and passenger cabin. The driver miraculously was able to self extricate himself from the vehicle and walk to the Westport EMS ambulance where he was treated for non-life threatening injuries and transported to Norwalk Hospital for treatment. Investigators from the US Postal Service and the local Postmaster responded to the scene. CL&P was requested to the scene on a priority to de-energize wires on the ground and around the vehicle that forced responders to delay entering the scene to secure the vehicle. Several surrounding houses were checked for reported problems with partial or no power causing alarm system activations. Cross Highway was closed to traffic from Sturgis Highway to Bayberry Lane. Upon receiving the “all clear” from CL&P crews were able to assess the vehicle and found the engine still running and the vehicle in gear. The vehicle was shut down and stabilized. Town Highway was called in to remove the tree from the vehicle and the Postal Service had the vehicle towed and the secured the mail from the vehicle. CL&P remained on the scene to repair the telephone poles and wires and will restore power at some time this evening. Cross Highway will remain closed in the area until CL&P completes the repairs. The last Fire Department unit left the scene at 3:40 PM.

MULTI-VEHICLE MVA ON I95

Feb 27 2010.... at 0023 this morning the Westport Fire Department responded to a multi-vehicle accident on I95 on the Saugatuck River bridge. The shift commander, one engine and the rescue responded to the scene. On arrival it was determined that six vehicles were involved spread out over one hundred yards. CT State Police also requested the assistance of Westport Police at the scene. Westport Police sent three cars to assist. Two ambulances from Westport EMS also responded. Four occupants of the vehicles were transported to Norwalk Hospital with what appeared to be non-life threatening injuries. CT State DOT sand trucks were requested to the scene to cover the icy roadway. The center and passing travel lanes were closed for just over an hour. The last fire department vehicle cleared the scene at 0137.

STRUCTURE FIRE - NEW YORK SPORTS CLUB

Feb 21 2010.... at 06:05 this morning the Westport Fire Department received a call for an automatic fire alarm sounding at the New York Sports Club at 427 Post Road East. While en route a call came in from an off duty firefighter working out at the club, that there was smoke in the building and a possible fire in the men’s locker room. Lt. Mike Kronick assisted the manager in evacuating the building and directing firefighters to the source of the smoke. A moderate smoke condition filled the workout area and upon entering the locker room, it was discovered that there was a sprinkler head activation in the sauna and visible fire. Crews brought two 2.5” attack lines into the building to attack the fire and laid 5” supply lines to hydrants in the front of the building across the Post Road and to the rear of the building on East Main Street for additional water. This required shutting down the Post Road in front of the building for approximately 1 hr. Westport Police provided traffic control and detoured traffic around the scene. The fire was extinguished and overhaul performed removing the majority of the wood interior of the sauna and checking adjoining walls for fire extension. The fire was contained to the sauna unit, which was removed by firefighters. Moderate water damage was controlled in the locker room area and in the basement. Fire damage was contained to the sauna, with moderate smoke damage thought the club. Adjoining occupancies had light smoke conditions that were ventilated. The health department was summoned to the scene for the club and an adjoining restaurant with smoke condition per protocols. The Westport Fire Marshal’s Office is conducting the investigation and at this time has deemed this to be an accidental fire with a cause that is electrical in origin. Westport EMS provided a standby ambulance at the scene. Smoke alarms and fire sprinkler system provided early warning and held the fire to the sauna reducing damage and will provide for a quick reopening of the club. A total of 26 firefighters responded to the scene and the last fire department unit cleared the scene at 9:15 AM.

MVA I95 NB EXIT 17 - 18

Feb 16 2010.... at approximately 7:00 AM the Westport Fire Department responded with State Police and Westport EMS to Interstate 95 northbound between exits 17 and 18 near the Hales Rd. overpass for a two car motor vehicle accident with injuries. Upon arrival firefighters found a car into the median with a driver complaining of neck and back injuries. The driver of the other vehicle that ended up in the right side travel lane was reporting no injuries. Firefighters assessed the injuries of the driver in the first vehicle, assisted Westport EMS removing the driver, and placing them on a back board and stretcher for transport to Norwalk Hospital. Vehicle travel was limited to a single lane northbound for approximately 25 minutes until both vehicles were removed.

WESTPORT ASSISTS FAIRFIELD WITH STRUCTURE FIRE

Feb 13 2010.... at approximately 1:45 this afternoon Westport firefighters responded to assist members of the Fairfield Fire Department with a structure fire on Sasco River Lane. Initially dispatched to cover Fairfield Fire Headquarters on Reef Road, Westport units were quickly sent to the scene to assist with extinguishment. Westport units returned to their quarters just before 4pm.

MVA I95 NB EXIT 17-18

Feb 13 2010.... at approximately 2am on Saturday morning Westport Fire Department along with State PD and Westport EMS responded to a motor vehicle accident on I95 northbound between exits 17 and 18. First arriving units found a single vehicle in the right travel lane with significant damage. The single occupant of the vehicle was treated by firefighters from the first due engine company while the rescue company dealt with fluid spills, lighting and vehicle safety. The patient was transferred to Westport EMS for transport to Norwalk hospital. Fire department units remained on scene until just after 3am.

WESTPORT FIRE LIEUTENANTS RESPOND TO POWER PLANT EXPLOSION

Feb 7 2010.... at approximately 1300 on Sunday afternoon, Connecticut's Urban Search and Rescue Team (CT-TF1 US&R) was activated to respond to a massive explosion and building collapse at the Kleen Energy plant in Middletown to assist local agencies with search, rescue and the collapse of the building. As part of that response Fire Lt. Brett Kirby and Fire Lt. Richard Stone responded with CT-TF1 US&R to assist with search and rescue of trapped workers. Initially it was believed that up to 100 workers may be trapped amidst the rubble. A massive coordinated response from statewide fire, rescue, law enforcement and EMS agencies along with numerous federal agencies converged on the scene. Search dogs were also used alongside collapse teams to scour the rubble. The blast killed 5 workers and seriously injured 27 others. The incident is currently under investigation.

STRUCTURE FIRE WITH EXTENSION

Feb 8 2010.... at approximately 0603 this morning the Westport Fire Department responded to a report of a fire on the outside of a structure in close proximity to a house. First arriving units discovered fire on the outside corner of the house. The occupant was attempting to extinguish and control the spread of the fire with pails of water. A plastic storage shed and all of it's contents were completely destroyed. Wood trim and shingles on the main house were also damaged by fire. CL&P was asked to respond to replace a melted electrical meter attached to the house. There was also damage to the able and telephone wires on the outside of the house. The last fire department unit cleared the scene at 0708.

BICYCLIST STRUCK BY CAR

Feb 4 2010.... a male bicyclist, described by witnesses as “an older man,” was apparently severely injured shortly before noon today when he collided with a car on Westport’s Compo Road North at East Main Street. The impact caused the bicycle to split in two, its wheels coming to rest in front of the car, which had heavy damage to the windshield. The female driver, while shaken up, did not appear to be seriously injured, according to witnesses. The bicyclist was taken to Norwalk Hospital by Westport EMS.

STRUCTURE FIRE ON FRESENIUS ROAD

January 8 2010.... at 12:20 this afternoon the Westport Fire Department responded to the report of “smoke in the basement” at 11 Fresenius Road. 3 Engines, a ladder truck, the Shift Commander and the departments Safety Officer responded. First arriving personnel found a light smoke condition in a basement office, with the odor of wood burning. Fire department personnel used their thermal imaging cameras to scan the interior of an exterior wall and located a “hot spot” just above a light switch. The area in question was opened up using tools and exposed a smoldering fire behind the sheetrock wall. Firefighters removed all of the sheetrock from the interior wall, including the insulation, to check for fire extension. Electricity in the basement office area was turned off at the main electric panel and a gas appliance located within the interior wall was also turned off. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Westport Fire Marshal’s Office. The house was determined to be safe for the family to reoccupy immediately. The last fire department unit cleared the scene at 1:40 PM.

MERRITT PARKWAY ROLLOVER

October 3 2009....at 05:54 the Westport Fire Department responded with Norwalk Fire, Westport EMS and State Police to a reported one vehicle accident with rollover on the Merritt Parkway southbound between exits 41 and 40. Upon arrival responders found a Ford E-250 that had struck a large tree on the front passenger side, taken down the guardrail and landed against another tree off the road. The driver of the vehicle was able to climb out of the driver’s side door and get out without assistance. Westport EMS evaluated and transported the driver to Norwalk Hospital with minor injuries. Westport Fire units stood by for removal of the vehicle requiring a tow truck and flat bed from Riverside Service Center due to the vehicles position off of the roadway. The Parkway had to be closed for approximately 20 min. southbound during the vehicle removal operation. All units cleared the scene at 6:40 AM.

MVA WITH INJURIES - ROLLOVER

Sept 27 2009....at 11:16 PM the Westport Fire Department responded to a single car motor vehicle accident with injuries on Imperial Ave. at the intersection with Harborview Road. Upon arrival, Westport PD units had helped the driver out of her late model Chevy Equinox which had veered off the roadway, struck a tree head on and ended up on its side. She was taken to Norwalk Hospital by Westport EMS. Multiple airbag deployment was a factor in her injuries not being too serious. Firefighters worked to help the tow truck operator to remove the vehicle. The last Westport Fire unit left the scene at 11:47 PM.

DOUBLE MVA'S WITH INJURIES ON I95

Sept 27 2009....at 1:17 PM today the Westport Fire Department responded to a reported multi vehicle w/ injuries on I 95 southbound, between exits 18 & 17. Arriving firefighters came upon a two vehicle accident prior to the Saugatuck Bridge. At the same time CT State Police advised that a four vehicle accident w/ injuries also occurred southbound on the Saugatuck Bridge. Additional fire units were directed to the second call. The first accident involved two passenger vehicles. There was moderate damage to the vehicles, a fluids spill, but minor injuries to the drivers. Westport EMS evaluated the drivers and they refused transport to Norwalk Hospital. The second accident involved four passenger vehicles and one significant injury to a passenger. He was evaluated by Westport Firefighters and transported to Bridgeport Hospital by Westport EMS. Firefighters worked to clear the scene of debris. All Westport fire units were cleared at 2:07 PM.

BARBECUE FESTIVAL COOKOFF

Sept 26 2009....the Westport Downtown Merchants Association’s “Blues Views & BBQ Festival” is taking place this weekend at the Levitt Pavillion. The 2^nd annual event features a professional and amateur cook off competition. This year the Westport Fire Department has entered a team in the “Amateur Backyard BBQ” competition. LT Mike Kronick, FF Ben Racho and FF Dan Ambruso will be using their culinary skills by preparing smoked chicken and ribs for the event. The “smoker” that they will be using was homemade especially for this event. All proceeds from the entry fees will go to the Connecticut Food Bank. Prizes and trophies will be awarded.

STRUCTURE FIRE

Sept 20 2009.... at 8:54 pm Westport Fire Department received a 911 call for a structure fire and a call from the alarm company reporting a fire alarm activation at the same address. Four fire engines, the ladder truck, and the shift commander initially responded from Westport as well as a Tanker Truck from Wilton on an automatic mutual aid agreement for that area. The first unit arrived 6 minutes later and found flames coming out of one window in the center portion of the house. After verifying all occupants were out of the house, a hose line was stretched to attack the fire. Westport Police units on scene assisted in rescuing a dog from the structure that insisted on re entering the house. He was subsequently tied to a tree to prevent him from going back inside. After the main body of fire was knocked down it was quickly learned that the fire had extended into both attics on opposite sides of the main body of fire. A ladder truck was requested from the City of Norwalk to help fight the stubborn blaze. An engine company from Fairfield and Norwalk were also called to cover Fire Headquarters. The fire was declared under control at 10:27 pm. A total of 35 Fire Department personnel fought the fire which significantly damaged the structure. Red Cross personnel were on scene to assist with firefighter rehab as well as to offer assistance to the occupants. Fire department units cleared the scene at 1:00am with Fire Marshal staff remaining on scene continuing with the fire investigation. At this time the cause remains under investigation.

BOAT FIRE AT LONGSHORE

Sept 18 2009.... at approximately 12:16 today the Fire Department responded to a boat on fire at 260 Compo Road South, Longshore Country Club. Initial reports from the scene indicated the fire to be at a dock at Ned Dimes Marina and dispatch assigned 3 engines, a ladder truck and chiefs car to the call, accompanied by an Inspector from the Fire Marshal's office and the Assistant Chief of Training. Subsequent reports indicated that the fire was actually at the Sailing School, verified by first arriving units. A small 16 foot inflatable Zodiac boat had caught fire and the fire was extinguished prior to units arriving on scene. Fire units cleared the scene at 1240.

ELECTRICAL SERVICE FIRE ON BUILDING

Sept 18.... at 7:43 AM today, the Westport Fire Department responded to a reported electrical fire at 72 Compo Rd. North. Arriving firefighters saw smoke coming from the right side of the structure as they were met by the homeowners. They stated that they had heard a loud series of explosions and saw fire coming from the house electrical service on the outside wall of the home with smoke filling the basement. Firefighters immediately shut down the main electrical panel and stretched a hose line to the front door. Using thermal imaging cameras, they checked the interiors wall for indications of fire. Northeast Utilities was immediately called to the scene to shut down the outside electrical feed as the fire started in the outside electrical service panel. Firefighters used positive pressure fans to remove the smoke from the structure. The fire was contained to the service panel. Northeast Utilities workers opened up the panel and there was extensive fire damage to the interior of the panel. The siding behind the area was charred, but did not extend into the structure. The entire electrical panel will need to be replaced. The last fire department unit left the scene at 8:56 AM. The Westport Fire Marshal’s office is in charge of the investigation.

CAR INTO BUILDING

Sept 13....at approximately 4pm, dispatch alerted the Fire Department to a report of a vehicle into a building at 1767 Post Road East. Arriving firefighters found a Honda Accord into the storefront of the Christian Science Reading Room. There were occupants in the space at the time of the crash, but they and the driver of the vehicle were unharmed. Firefighters checked all occupants for injuries and also checked the building for structural damage. A member of the building official’s office was called to the scene to evaluate the damage. The driver of the vehicle, a Westport woman, stated that she was driving on the Post Rd. looking for the Christian Science Reading Room and turned quickly to park in front of the store. She hit the curb at the roadway and the vehicle jumped forward and crashed into the building, breaking all the storefront glass and framework. The vehicle ended up approximately ten feet into the store. Several people were inside the store at the time of the incident. Firefighters remained on the scene until a contractor arrived to board up the building and the vehicle was towed. Westport Police are in charge of the investigation. The last Fire Department unit left the scene at 5:48 PM.

MULTIPLE MVA'S I95 EXITS 17 - 18

Sept 4....Westport Fire Department responded to multiple vehicle accidents with injuries on I95 North between Exit 17 and 18 within hours of each other early Friday morning. The first accident occurred at 0049 hrs between a Ford Explorer and a Chevrolet Malibu. A passenger in the Ford Explorer was treated at the scene for neck and back pain and transported to the hospital by Westport E.M.S. for further evaluation. A second accident occurred at 0208 hrs between a Mitsubishi Galant and a tractor trailer. The impact sheared the roof off of the Mitsubishi. The sole occupant of the car, the driver, walked away from the vehicle with apparent minor injuries. He was also transported to the hospital by Westport E.M.S. for further evaluation. The Westport Fire Department responded to both accidents with a Command Car, Rescue and Engine Company. The last Fire Department unit left the second accident at 0325 hrs. The Mitsubishi and Tractor trailer both had to be towed from the scene.

FATAL MVA I95 AT EXIT 17

September 2....at 01:14 am the Westport Fire Department responded to a reported motor vehicle accident with injuries on I-95 northbound just north of the exit 17 on ramp. Engine 4 out of Saugatuck, Rescue 3 from Fire Headquarters and the shift commander’s vehicle responded along with State and Westport Police to find a car that had rear ended a trailer truck carrying bluestone slabs and then crashed into the guardrail on the right side of the highway. The occupant was trapped in the vehicle with heavy damage to the front and drivers side. An assessment of the driver found no signs of life and severe trauma. All three northbound lanes were closed for approximately 30 min and one single lane for the duration of the incident. The state police requested that the fire department standby and assist with lighting of the scene for their investigation. After the State Medical Examiner pronounced the victim, firefighters used the “jaws of life” to remove the victim from the wreckage. Firefighters remained on scene for the duration of the accident investigation and the last unit left the scene at 4:56am.

CAR INTO BUILDING

September 1.... At approximately 8:43 this evening the Westport Fire Department responded to a report of a motor vehicle into a house on Long Lots Road in the vicinity of St. Vincent’s Behavioral Health. Arriving firefighters found a 2009 Toyota Prius into a house with the driver in the vehicle. The driver suffered injuries as a result of the crash, Westport EMS and Firefighters removed the driver from the vehicle and the patient was transported to Norwalk Hospital for further medical treatment. Firefighters evaluated the structure and determined the damaged to be primarily cosmetic not affecting the structural stability of the house. Due to a minor house fire already in progress at the time of this incident, the Westport Fire Department had a relocated Engine Company from Saugatuck take the Rescue Truck from Fire Headquarters along with Greens Farms Engine Company 5 and an off duty Assistant Fire Chief to manage the scene. The cause of the accident is being investigated by the Westport Police Department, the last Fire Department unit cleared the scene at 9:29 PM.

CLOSET FIRE

September 1.... 8:06 PM this evening the Westport Fire Department responded to a reported “fire out” in a closet in a home at 349 Wilton Rd. One engine and the shift commanders vehicle responded and while en route an additional call from the homeowner stated that the fire had ignited again and the house was filling with smoke. One additional engine and the department’s ladder truck were also requested to assist. Upon arrival units found smoke coming from the front door and a number of items in the first floor closet smoldering. The homeowner was able to hold the fire in check by dousing it with water from the sink. Firefighters used two water extinguishers to extinguish the items and removed them to the exterior of the house. A large fan was used to remove smoke and thermal imaging cameras were used to make sure that the fire did not extend outside of the closet. The fire alarm system that sounded due to the smoke condition was restored and the house checked for carbon monoxide. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Westport Fire Marshal’s Office. The last fire department unit cleared the scene at 9:21 PM.

MDA BOOT DRIVE A HUGE SUCCESS

August 30.... Westport Firefighters held the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s “Fill the Boot” Campaign at Compo Beach. The weather was beautiful and Westport residents enjoyed the day at the beach, while giving tremendous financial support to the campaign. Westport Firefighters raised $3653.41 and will be sending that donation to MDA for the “Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon” which will be held Labor Day weekend. FF Nick Marsan and FF Earl Hill, event organizers from Westport Firefighter’s Local 1081, say “ thank you to the Westport Community for their overwhelming support of this event.” Westport Firefighters have been a strong supporter of MDA and other charitable organizations and will continue these efforts in the future.

WFD HOSTS WAR VETERANS

August 25.... Westport Fire Department had the honor to welcome two war veterans to Fire Headquarters for the day. Jose Rivera, an Army sniper served 2 and a half tours in Iraq receiving 3 Purple Hearts. Taras Kryzalka is a Marine who served 2 tours in Iraq and received TBI from numerous IED's. The fire department was introduced to the two soldiers during a trip to Walter Reed and Bethesda hospitals for Operation Gift Cards (www.ctveterans.org), a program that was started by the father of fire Lieutenant Brian Meadows. Monetary donations are used to purchase gift cards for wounded soldiers. The two soldiers were treated to a day of training including a vehicle extrication and rappelling from the roof of the building. Firefighters were on hand to assist the soldiers through the evolutions and to talk with the veterans about their experiences abroad.

ROLLOVER ON RIVERSIDE AVE

August 18....-A teenage driver escaped serious injury on Tuesday night when she lost control of her PT Cruiser after apparently careening off a high curb, then crossing the road and slamming through a wooden fence and into a parked Mercedes station wagon at 165 Riverside Avenue, opposite the Saugatuck Elementary School. She escaped serious injury and, according to officials, had crawled out of the vehicle before police arrived. She refused medical treatment but remained at the site for evaluation by EMS personnel. No other passengers were in the vehicle which was towed from the scene.

EXTRICATION I95

August 9....At 03:47 AM the Westport Fire Department, Westport EMS, and State Police responded to a two car motor vehicle accident with injuries and extrication required. Two engines, a rescue, and the shift commander’s vehicle responded and found a Suzuki Grand Vitara with heavy damage to the passenger side and two occupants still in the vehicle. A second vehicle had stopped further south with front end damage and fluids leaking, and the driver stating he had no injuries. Engine 5 crew deployed an 1 ½” hose line to protect the trapped occupants and provided medical care. Rescue 3 personnel used the “jaws of life” of remove both passenger side doors of the Suzuki and assisted EMS with the removal and placement of the passenger on a back board for transport to the hospital. The driver was able to get out by himself and was assisted to the ambulance. Both were transported to Norwalk Hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Both vehicles were removed by Westport Service Center and the last fire department vehicle cleared the scene at 05:00 AM.

STRUCTURE FIRE - EXTENSION FROM PROPANE TANK

August 6....At 0305 the Westport Fire Department received a call for a burning in-ground propane tank in the rear of # 28 Pequot Trail. Two engines, the ladder truck and the shift commander’s car responded to the initial call. Upon arrival, units found fire visible from the left rear side of the house. Several pillars of fire 6-8 feet high were showing from drains in the walkway around the house, and the ground in the area of the 500 gallon in-ground propane tank was on fire. A plastic garbage can container was burning next to the rear of the structure and fire was extending to the rear exterior wall and under the roof soffits.

Engine 4 stretched a 1 ½” hose line to the rear and Engine 2 established water supply. The firefighters from the ladder truck ventilated the building to remove smoke and carbon monoxide, shut down the power and utilities and check for fire extension to the interior. Two additional Westport engines were requested to assist at the scene and the Fairfield Fire Department provided an engine at Fire Headquarters in the event of other emergency calls. The fire on the exterior of the house was extinguished, but the propane gas fueled fires were allowed to burn to control the escaping gas. Under the protection of a hose line, firefighters shut off the main tank valve, but this only slowed the leak. Additional firefighters checked the house for propane gas that may have seeped into the basement of the home through the ground. After consulting with Gault response personnel, it was decided to burn off the remaining 250 gallons of propane gas with a special flaring tool provided by the Fairfield County Hazmat Team. As of 0900, crews were still standing by at the house while the burning process continued for another several hours. There were no injuries reported. The homeowners were allowed to reoccupy a remote area of the house and the house is still habitable for the affected family.

LARGE TREE INTO HOUSE

August 2....at approximately 5pm the Westport Fire Department responded to check a detached garage located at 5 Sherwood Drive that was severely damaged by an uprooted tree. The tree was approximately three foot in diameter and severely damaged a detached garage at 9 Sherwood Drive. A motor vehicle in the driveway also sustained damage. No personal injuries occurred. The garage was deemed uninhabitable by Fire Fighters on scene and the area cordoned off with barricade tape. The tree also damaged fences at 1 Sherwood Drive, 190 Hillspoint Rd and 192 Hillspoint Rd. The Fire Department responded with one Engine Company and one Command vehicle.

STRUCTURE FIRE - OCCUPANT RESCUED

July 2 2009....at 6:16 AM the Westport Fire Department received a call for smoke in basement at # 35 Hiawatha Lane called in by the occupant on the first floor. Three engines, a rescue and the Shift Commander’s vehicle responded and upon arrival the first in engine reported fire visible on the stove top and a heavy smoke condition in the basement level apartment. Firefighters forced entry through the locked door and shut off the stove that had been left on and unattended by the occupant. Additional firefighters began a search of the apartment using thermal imaging cameras and located the occupant asleep on his bed. Firefighters removed the occupant to the outside of the building, administered oxygen, and summoned Westport EMS to the scene for evaluation. The occupant was transported to Norwalk Hospital for treatment of smoke inhalation. Ventilation of the smoke was performed using fans, and the other floors of the building were checked by additional firefighters with minimal smoke condition found. The Fire Marshal’s Office responded to investigate the fire. Fire damage was limited to the stove top and surrounding cabinets. Smoke residue was heavy throughout the apartment. The smoke detector in the apartment failed to operate and warn the occupant of the fire due to malfunction.

LIGHTNING STRIKE

July 1 2009....a Victoria Lane home owner returned to her residence just after a thunder storm passed through the area and found a smoke condition in her garage. She dialed 911 and reported the fire to the Westport Fire Department 911 dispatcher. Upon arrival responding firefighters found as reported a light smoke condition in the garage and physical damage to her electric fence system control box. Also found was the remnants of fire damaged roll of paper towels that were stored adjacent to the control box on the garage floor. Fire damage was confined to a small section of wall and the electric fence control box, along with internal damage to a home computer that was also damage by the electric surge from the lightning strike. Three Engines, Rescue 3, and the Shift Commander along with the Fire Marshals Office responded to this incident.

MVA CAR UNDER TRACTOR TRAILER

June 4 2009....at 12:15 AM today, the Westport Fire Department responded to a two vehicle accident with injuries (car under tractor trailer) on I 95 northbound, between exits 18 & 19. Arriving firefighters reported that all three occupants of the vehicle, a 328i BMW with Pennsylvania plates , were out of the vehicle. They were evaluated by firefighters and paramedics from Westport EMS and American Medical Response and were transported to Bridgeport Hospital. The car, wedged under the trailer in front of the rear wheels, had to be pulled out from under the trailer. I 95 northbound was shut down by CT State Police during the removal of the vehicle. The driver of the tractor trailer was not injured. The last Westport Fire Department unit left the scene at 1:02 AM. The cause of the accident is under investigation.

POOL HOUSE FIRE

May 24 2009....at 10:42PM the Westport Fire Department responded to a reported pool shed fire located in the rear of 15 Coleytown Rd. The first arriving firefighters reported a pool shed in the rear of the residence was fully involved. Firefighters stretched a pre-connected 1 ½” hose line and extinguished the fire. The second due engine company shut down the propane supply to the pool heater. Fire Marshal Zygmant responded to the scene to conduct the fire investigation. No one was hurt in the incident. Four engines, an aerial truck and the shift commander’s vehicle responded to the call. A Fairfield fire engine company covered fire headquarters until Westport units were released from the incident. Westport Police Department units shut down Coleytown Rd. for the duration of the incident. The last fire department unit left the scene at 12:14 AM.

MVA I95 ROLLOVER

May 13 2009....at 12:45 AM the Westport Fire Department responded with State Police and Westport EMS to I-95 Southbound on the Saugatuck River bridge just prior to exit 17 for a reported motor vehicle accident with extrication required. An engine, the rescue and the shift commanders vehicle responded and arriving units found a Honda Accord that had struck the median wall, cross all three travel lanes, struck the right side of the bridge and came to rest on the passenger’s side. Firefighters stabilized the vehicle and entered to evaluate the driver. The driver was conscious with minor injuries. The driver side door was removed using the “jaws of life” and the driver was removed from the vehicle and was evaluated by Westport EMS and refused medical treatment. Firefighters stood by until the vehicle was removed by Westport Service Center flatbed truck and a minor oil spill was absorbed with speedi-dri.

STRUCTURE FIRE

May 10 2009....approximately 10:47 PM, the Westport Fire Department responded to a report of an activated fire alarm system at a home at #48 Myrtle Avenue. The department initially responded to the call with an engine company and the shift supervisor’s command car. Upon arrival at the scene firefighters observed the homeowner attempting to douse flames at the rear of the house with a home fire extinguisher. Engine Company Firefighters employed a pre-connected attack line to extinguish fire on the exterior of the rear of the structure. A second engine company and the department’s truck company was summoned to the scene to secure a water supply, conduct overhaul to check for fire extension and to vent smoke from the house. Fire damage was limited to the exterior wood shingles at the rear, and one rear door of the home. Underlying post and beam framing was scorched but structurally undamaged. Water damage was minimal. There were not any injuries. The homeowner related that earlier in the evening, she and her family were enjoying the ambiance of their outdoor, free standing fire pit on the rear patio of the home. The family retired for the evening. Subsequently the homeowner heard her fire alarm warning signal, investigated, saw fire at the rear door and attempted to extinguish the fire with a pot of water and the kitchen extinguisher. The cause of the fire is presently under investigation by Westport’s Fire Marshal. This incident was the second in Westport in ten days where operating smoke detectors provided early warning of a fire in a residence.

EXTRICATION - DRIVER PINNED AGAINST WALL

May 5 2009....at 1:31 PM today, the Westport Fire Department responded to a 911 call for a single vehicle accident with extrication required. Westport Fire, Police and EMS responded to the call located in the driveway of 23 Sandhopper Trail. First responders found a sixty seven year old Westport resident trapped between her late model Volvo and a stone wall. She apparently stopped at her mailbox, got out of the car to get the mail, but forgot to put the car in park. The Volvo started moving down the driveway and she tried to get back into the vehicle but was pinned between the door and the frame of the car. As the car moved down the driveway, the open door started to become wedged between the vehicle frame and a stone wall on the driver’s side. She screamed for help and a couple of alert landscapers working next door jumped into the passenger side door and applied the brake, stopping the moving vehicle and preventing further injury. Westport firefighters chocked the wheels to keep the vehicle from further motion and the car was put in park. Westport EMS got into the vehicle and started emergency care while firefighters went to work, devising a rigging system to pull the car away from the wall without further injuring the patient. The system was put in place and the car was moved away from the wall, allowing emergency personnel to extricate the patient, place her on a long spine board and prepare her for transport to Norwalk hospital for further treatment. The incident went very smoothly, with firefighters using rescue rigging techniques learned within the past year when all fire personnel became certified in Vehicle and Heavy Machinery Rescue during the six day program given by the CT State Fire Academy. Westport Police are in charge of the accident investigation.

RESIDENTIAL LAUNDRY ROOM FIRE

April 30 2009....approximately 5:02 AM, the Westport Fire Department responded to a report of smoke in the house at #5 High Point Road. The department responded to the call with three engine companies, a truck company, and the shift supervisor’s command car. Upon arrival at the large, three story, single-family residence, Firefighters were directed to a second floor laundry. Firefighters entered the laundry room and extinguished burning materials located on the floor of the room. Fire damage was limited to some scorching of the exterior surface of the washing machine. Water damage was minimal. Firefighters used fans to vent smoke from the house. There were not any injuries. The homeowner related her family was awakened by activated smoke detectors. In subsequent conversation with the homeowner, it was learned that her housekeeper utilized linseed oil and rags to clean some outdoor furniture during the previous day. The rags were placed in a plastic wash bucket and set on the floor in the laundry room adjacent to the clothes washer. Prior to departure, Firefighters metered the home to assure the atmosphere was safe for occupancy. The last Fire Department apparatus cleared the scene at 5:58 AM.

MVA ROLLOVER I95

April 26 2009....at 8:57 PM, the Westport Fire Department responded to a reported motor vehicle accident, one vehicle rollover with injuries. Engine 4 from the Saugatuck Station, Rescue 3 and the Shift Commander's Car from Fire Headquarters responded to I-95 northbound, just prior to the exit 18 off ramp. Upon arrival a Ford Ranger pickup truck was found over the guardrail and on its driver side. Two female occupants were being treated for minor injuries by a passing Nelson Ambulance who provided transportation to Norwalk Hospital. Fire units remained to assist with protection of all responders from oncoming traffic and lighting of the area until the removal of the vehicle by flatbed from Westport Service Center. At times only one of traffic was permitted to pass as the vehicle was being pulled up the embankment on onto the flatbed truck. The last fire unit left the scene at 10:20 PM.

STRUCTURE FIRE

April 27 2009....at 4:29 PM the Westport Fire Department received a 911 call from the resident at 253 Greens Farms Rd. She reported that she had smoke in the stairwell to the second floor. At the same time her fire alarm sounded. Firefighters arrived and observed flames coming from the roof near the gutter in the front of the house. Fire crews went to work, opening up that area of the roof and began to extinguish the fire. Inside the house, firefighters opened up the interior wall and extinguished the fire that was traveling up the rafter bays on the interior of the roof. Firefighters continued to open up the exterior of the roof affected by the fire to make sure its’ spread was stopped. Four engines, an aerial truck and the shift commander’s vehicle responded with a total of fifteen firefighters aboard. Fire investigators from the Westport Fire Marshal’s office also responded. The homeowner stated that a roofing crew had been soldering the gutter in the area of the fire just a half hour before. Fire Marshal Zygmant is in charge of the investigation. Firefighters cleaned up the debris from the fire and turned the home over to the owners. Westport Police shut down Greens Farms Rd. in that area for the duration of the incident. The last Westport Fire unit left the scene at 6:32 PM.

SUV INTO SWAMP

April 3 2009.... a wrong turn late this evening ended up causing a little more than a delayed return home for one Westport resident. The driver of a 2004 Range Rover attempted to perform a three point turn on a narrow driveway after realizing he had made a wrong turn. Unfortunately the road was more than a little unforgiving and the vehicle slid down a steep embankment and into a shallow swamp area. Despite numerous attempts to extricate the vehicle under it's own power, the police department was alerted and a wrecker called. Westport Fire Department responded to check for hazardous fluid spills into the waterway. Fire Department units left the scene at 11:59pm.

BRUSH FIRE ON MEADOW BROOK LANE

March 27 2009.... The Westport Fire Department responded to a report of an explosion and fire in a wooded area behind Long Lots Elementary school. Alert neighbors on Meadow Brook Lane said they heard an explosion and then saw fire in a wooded area. Upon arrival Westport Fire Fighters located the fire approximately three hundred feet into the woods. The explosion heard was apparently an aerosol can exploding which had been placed in the fire. The fire was quickly extinguished by Fire Fighters on the scene. A Fire Inspector was called to the scene and more than a dozen cans of flammable fluids were found in the immediate area. Thanks to alert and concerned citizens a much larger fire was prevented. Just a few days earlier the Westport Fire Department assisted in Weston where a 6,000 square foot home and approximately 15 acres of woodland burned due to the extremely dry conditions.

WESTPORT FD RESPONDS MUTUAL AID TO WESTON.

March 24 2009....at 11:27 this morning the Westport Fire Department responded to the Town of Weston on a mutual-aid request to assist fighting a structure fire that also touched off an intensive wind driven 16 acre wild land fire. Westport initially responded with one 4-man engine company, en route the Westport engine was diverted to a 2nd residence being engulfed by flames. Firefighters contained the 2nd fire and limited damage to the buildings exterior. The wind driven wild land fire destroyed a 6000 + square foot residence on Smith Ridge Road, damaged a 2nd residence on Forest Road and required evacuation of several homes being threatened by the fire. Resources requested from Westport included 2 Engines, Chief of Department, Department Safety Officer, and a Regional Communication Vehicle. The Westport Fire Marshal office was also requested by the Town of Weston to assist in the initial investigation of the blaze. A total of 13 Westport Firefighters responded, last Westport unit cleared Weston at 4:20 this afternoon.

HOUSE FIRE ON LYONS PLAINS ROAD.

March 21 2009.... at 12:43 PM today, the Westport Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 5 Lyons Plains Rd. Westport and Weston firefighters arrived on scene and began firefighting operations. As firefighters began extinguishing the blaze, additional fire personnel conducted a search of the home. No occupants were home at the time of the fire, but the family dog “Cody” was brought to safety by Westport Firefighters. Crews worked to remove interior ceilings to get at fire in the roof area and the room above the garage. Fire crews worked the scene for about an hour before all hidden pockets of fire were extinguished. Damage was limited to the garage and the room above. The Westport Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the cause of the fire. Seventeen career Westport firefighters, four Westport Volunteer firefighters and twenty four Weston Volunteer firefighters worked the scene. Westport and Weston Police also responded to the scene, rerouted traffic from the area and worked with the Westport Fire Marshal. The last Westport Fire unit left the scene at 3:16 PM.

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