For more 100th information and photos click on above graphic.
Tough Brush Fire For Firefighters
April 2009- Firefighters were called to a report of a brush fire at the end of Trail Side Rd. Once firefighters arrived on scene, they discovered a large area of brush burning between Trail Side Rd and Preservation Way. Multiple mutual aid units were requested and all shifts were called back to work due to the fire being over such a large area and moving quickly up a hill. Command declared the fire contained in about 2 hours and all units left the scene 3 hours after the initial call.
Female Medflighted After Tubing Accident
February 2009- Firefighter/EMTs were requested to the local ski area's tubing park for an injured female party. Due to the initial report Emerson paramedics were started. Once firefighters and paramedics reached the victim, due to her injuries, medflight was requested. Engine 8 was then requested to secure the initial landing zone at the Westford Regency. However due to vehicles occupying the parking lot, an alternate landing zone was established in Lucent Technology's parking lot. Westford 10 with the paramedics transported the patient to the landing zone where she was flown to Massachusetts General Hospital.
Man Medflighted After Snowmobile Accident
January 2009-Firefighter/EMTs rescued a man off of Forge Pond in Forge Village after the man hit a rut in the snow while driving his snowmobile on the pond. Firefighters used a snowmobile with rescue sled and a 4 wheeler to reach the man and remove him from the pond. Firefighters/EMTs transported him to the landing zone where he was flown out by Medical Helicopter to Massachusetts General.
Firefighters Battle 2 Alarm House Fire
January 2009-Firefighters battled a 2 alarm house fire on Barrister Drive causing significant damage to the attic and heavy fire, smoke and water damage to the garage of the two story single family home. Two cars in the garage were destroyed in the blaze. Firefighters made a quick stop of the fire despite adverse weather conditions that left hoses frozen and the ground and surrounding area icy. The fire was under control in approximatley 2 hours. Firefighters from Chelmsford, Littleton also responded to the scene to assist Westford crews, while Firefighters from Tyngsoboro and Groton responded to cover Westford stations. One civilian was injured after
falling on the ice, no Firefighter injuries reported.
Westford Person Burned, MedFlighted
January 2009-Firefighter/EMT's were dispatched to a Westford Home for a woman who had been badly burned. The woman's shirt had caught on fire while cooking and severly burned her. Firefighters quickly initiated emergency care and transported her to the landing zone where Emerson Advanced Life Support unit met up with the ambulance and started Advanced care. MedFlight landed and the woman was transported by helicopter to Boston.
Ice Safety Information
 Each winter, many residents are injured from exposure in cold water incidents. Skaters and ice fishermen fall through the ice; boaters and canoeists overturn their crafts. How thick is "safe" ice? Ice on moving water in rivers, streams and brooks is never safe! The thickness of ice on ponds and lakes depends upon water currents or springs, depth and natural objects stuck as tree stumps or rocks. Daily changes in temperature cause the ice to expand and contract, which affects its strength. Because of these factors, no one can declare the ice to be absolutley "safe"! The only "safe" ice is in an arena! What do I do if someone falls through the ice? Act Quickly and call 911 for help
immediatley! Make sure properly trained and equipped rescue personnel are alerted to respond. Do Not go out on ice! Many times would be rescuers become victims themselves. Reach, Throw, or Row. Extend a branch, pole or ladder to the victim. Throw them a bouyant object such as a life ring or float tied to a rope. If a boat is nearby row out to the victim or push it toward them.
Weather Sealing a Home-Reminder
January 2009-This is a safety reminder to those who seal their homes against leaks/cracks at windows and doors during the winter months to help on the cost of fuel consumption and loss of heat. Please keep all exits free and clear to prevent difficulty in escaping. Sealing doors and windows can interfere with a necessary rapid escape and or make it more difficult for Firefighters to get into a home to make a rescue.
Firefighters Battle Groton Road House Fire
December 2008-Firefighters battled a 2 alarm house fire on Groton Road causing significant damage to the second floor of the two story single family home. Firefighters made a quick stop of the fire and the blaze was under control around 2pm. Firefighters from Chelmsford and Tyngsboro also responded to the scene to assist Westford crews, while Firefighters from Lowell, Littleton and Groton responded to cover Westford stations. No reported injuries.
Firefighters Mourn the Passing of Longtime Fire Captain
November 2008-Harold A. Fletcher, Sr. former Westford Water Dept. superintendent, EMT, and firefighter, Army vet; 81 WESTFORD Harold A. Fletcher, Sr., 81, beloved husband of Frances L. Chambers) Fletcher for 54 years, lifelong resident of Westford, died suddenly at Emerson Hospital in Concord, November 27th, 2008. Born in Westford, April 7th, 1927, the son of Austin D. Fletcher and Ethel M. (Ripley) Fletcher, he was a graduate of Westford Academy, Class of 1946. Harold began his firefighting career as a volunteer in high school and continued as a call fireman, and became Captain of Company I. He was an active EMT until his retirement in 1992 and assisted with the fundraising program
for Westford's first ambulance. Harold joined the Army in 1951 and was stationed at Fort Devens in Ayer, MA and in Watertown, N.Y. for four years of service. Harold began his career in the Westford Water Department in 1947 and became Superintendent. He retired after 49 years of service. In recognition of that service, the water department well off Concord Road is named in his honor. Besides his wife, he is survived by three sons; Harold "Haffie" A. Fletcher, Jr. and his wife, Deby of Westford, Roger "Roddy" Fletcher of Clovis, N.M., David Fletcher and his wife, Cindy of Nashua, N.H.; a brother, A. Dana Fletcher and his wife, Muriel E. Fletcher of Chelmsford; a sister, Marjorie F. Smith of Chelmsford; four granddaughters; and seven great-grandchildren. Harold was the brother of the late Reverend Charles Fletcher, stepson of Eleanor (Colburn) Fletcher, brother-in-law of the late Lawrence Smith, and was father-in-law of the late Linda (Sena) Fletcher.
 Firefighters Knock Down Carolina Ln. House Fire
August 2008-Firefighters quickly knocked down a bedroom fire in a Carolina Lane house. Firefighters arrived to find heavy smoke in the home and discovered the fire. Firefighters quickly put the fire out.
The winning Raffle Ticket was #8266469. The prize of $150.00 was won at the Muster.
Probationary Firefighters Complete Training and Orientation
New Firefighters from left to right: David McGloughlin, Justin Searles, Matt Svatek, David Lefebvre, Mark Witherell, Kris Klein, and David Greenwood. Photo by David Christiana.
New Firefighter Mark Witherell holds the line as new Firefighters trained in the Department's Flashover Trailer in the training area at the George Rogers Station 3. Photo by David Christiana.
June 2008- The eight new Firefighters hired under the Safer Grant, finished their three week long training and orientation program and will be integrated into their individual shifts starting June 30th. The new Firefighters trained in various Firefighting and Rescue operations to familiarize themselves with the tools and equipment Westford Fire Department uses. All the new Firefighters are all Certified Firefighters on the State and National level, but have wide variety of background experience, and the orientation allowed them to become
familiar with other department Firefighters, learn department policies and procedures and more. The new Firefighter/EMTs also responded to calls during their shifts. Their second day they fought the American Legion Fire in Graniteville. The department would like to welcome them to Town.
Firefighters Battle 2 Alarm Fire at American Legion in Graniteville
Firefighters made a quick stop to a very fast moving fire at the American Legion Post 159 in Graniteville. Photo by David Christiana.
Photo by David Christiana.
June 2008- The Westford Police received a 911 call at approximately 6:29 AM reporting a possible structure fire at the American Legion on 2 Cross Street. The first arriving engine reported a working fire and a 2nd alarm was struck. Mutual aid from the Towns of Littleton & Groton responded to the scene and station coverage was provided by Ayer, Chelmsford and Tyngsboro.
Although crews were faced with heavy fire conditions, they made a quick interior attack. The building had more than one ceiling which made extinguishing the fire difficult. Also, with temperatures in the 80’s and high humidity, firefighters had to frequently go through rehab. Despite the obstacles firefighters were faced with, they made a valiant effort to save the building. Two things worked in favor of the firefighting efforts: First, the fire occurred during the shift change where both oncoming and outgoing firefighters and call department were available to respond. Second, the eight newly hired firefighters (due to the SAFER Grant) had just reported for their 2nd day on the job.
Today is a sad day for the American Legion Post 159 and the community. For many years Post 159 has been a community partner offering school scholarships and supporting the elderly sponsoring Ham and Bean suppers with the Westford Firefighters Association. Post 159 has been a major organizer for Memorial and Veterans Day observances, many people have benefited by their presence within the community. The Westford Fire Department extends to Post 159 our sincere regrets in their loss and hope for a brighter future.
No cause of the fire has been determined at this time and the fire is currently under investigation. The Westford Fire Department wishes to thank mutual aid fire departments and especially the Westford Police and Water Department for their assistance and support
Firefighters Assist Tyngsboro Fighting House Fire and Hazmat
April 2008- Westford Firefighters were called to assist Tyngsboro Fire Department in battling a 3 Alarm House Fire off of Middlesex Road. Firefighters were called directly to the scene to assist crews and made entry into the building. Engine 8 was used to help get water to the scene via a water shuttle with Engines from other communities. Lt. Fletcher stayed on the scene as Hazmat tech to assist the Tyngsboro Chief in a tier one Hazmat response due to a hazmat situation in the house.
Firefighters Battle Multiple Brush Fires
April 2008- Westford Firefighters have battled multiple brush fires over the last week due to recent dry weather conditions. Westford Fire Dept wants to remind residents that burning brush is only permitted with a permit from the Fire Dept and only after checking with Fire Alarm on whether burning is being permitted that day. It is imperative residents follow the rules and regulations regarding burning on the printed copy of your permit. The state classifies each burning day as to the danger and the Fire Department
determines whether burning will be permitted. Burning is only allowed Jan 15th through May 1st with a permit only. As of May 1st, no more open burning is allowed.
Westford Firefighters Mourn...
April 2008- On behalf of Chief Rochon and the Westford Fire Department we regret to announce the sudden passing of Firefighter Richard Green, an active call member for the past 21 years. Calling hours will be at the J. A. Healy Funeral Home 57 North Main Street Westford Sunday from 2 - 6 April 13th 2008. Richie was always reliable, dedicated and loyal to the Department and the Town of Westford. Richie would do anything for anyone and always with a smile and without complaint. Richie
will be greatly missed by all members.
Firefighters Battle Nabnassett House Fire
Firefighters working a Fire at Wilson Lane. Photo by Adam McClellan
February 2008- Westford Firefighters battled a 2 Alarm House Fire in the Nabnassett section of town on Wislon Lane. Fire was showing when Firefighters arrived on scene and Firefighters went to work. Firefighters were able to get control of the fire very quickly after arrival, though extended overhaul operations were needed. The home sustained heavy damage from fire and smoke. No one was home at the time of the fire. The cause is under investigation.
2 Alarm House Fire in Forge Village
Photo by Steve Ducharme
January 2008- The Westford Police received a 911 call at approximately 12:13 AM reporting a possible structure fire at 4 Sandy Beach Road (Forge Village section of town). Police arrived on scene and reported heavy fire and smoke showing. First arriving engine reported a working fire and a 2nd alarm was called bringing an Engine to the scene from Littleton, and the towns of Carlisle and Tyngsboro covered Westford Fire Stations. Crews were hampered with extreme weather conditions, ice and water supply problems
hindered firefighter efforts to extinguish the fire. The home was a two story wood frame cottage that suffered heavy fire damage throughout. Fortunately no one was home at the time of the fire. No cause of the fire has been determined at this time and the fire is currently under investigation by the Westford Fire Department. The Westford Fire Department wishes to thank mutual aid fire departments and especially assistance from the Westford Police, Highway and Water Departments for their support.
Mutual Aid Departments Help Contain Oil Spill
January 2008- The WFD received an anonymous telephone call at approximately 9:50 AM for the investigation of a potential oil spill on Town Farm Road. The first arriving unit discovered the presence of oil in Beaver Brook. Further investigation found that an oil spill had occurred at 1 Pleasant Street Yule Development. An undetermined amount of #2 and #4 fuel oil had spilled from the 1 Pleasant Street boiler room. The Westford Fire Department made notification to have the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to respond.
Local agencies were also notified of the spill; Board of Health, Water Department, Highway Department, Conservation Department and the Town Manager. Westford Fire personnel donned ice rescue suits to place absorbing booms across Beaver Brook to capture any oil from the spill. A request for special booms (Harbor Booms) was called for from area towns. Lowell, Littleton, Chelmsford and Bedford all responded to the incident to place harbor booms in different locations along Beaver Brook. An outside spill contractor (ENPRO) was called by Yule Development to assist in the clean-up and to mitigate the spill. DEP was extremely thankful for the fast response and spill control from the Westford Fire Department to avoid further environmental damage. The Westford Fire Department left the scene at 3:08 PM (five hours after the incident) as ENPRO is currently active in mitigating.
New Ambulance Has Arrived
January 2008- The Fire Department's new Ambulance has arrived. The 2007 LifeLine Ambulance by Specialty Vehicles will be the new frontline emergency ambulance (W10) and the current ambulance, Westford 12, will be the main back-up ambulance. The current back-up ambulance, Westford 11, will be housed at the unmanned Station 3 and used when one of the main ambulances are down for service or routine maintenance. This is the first Ambulance purchased under the Enterprise Account.
Firefighters Battle 2 Alarm House Fire.
Westford Firefighters make their initial attack. (photo by C.Ricard)
December 2007- Firefighters battled a 2 Alarm House Fire on Holly Lane. Firefighters battled the heavy flames in the garage and the finished breezeway between the garage and the house. Homeowners were able to escape the house. Firefighters had to wrestle with heavy snow conditions on the roof of the garage in order to cut a ventilation hole to let extreme heat and smoke from the fire. Firefighters had to deal with heavy fire load including gasoline in the vehicles parked in the garage. Firefighters were able to stop the
fire before it entered the main house, however the house did sustain heat and smoke damage. The fire is under investigation.
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Ice Safety
Each winter, many residents are injured from exposure in cold water incidents. Skaters and ice fishermen fall through the ice; boaters and canoeists overturn their crafts. How thick is "safe" ice? Ice on moving water in rivers, streams and brooks is never safe! The thickness of ice on ponds and lakes depends upon water currents or springs, depth and natural objects stuck as tree stumps or rocks. Daily changes in temperature cause the ice to expand and contract, which affects its strength. Because of these factors, no one can declare the ice to be absolutley "safe"! The only "safe" ice is in an arena! What do I do if someone falls through the ice? Act Quickly and call 911 for help
immediatley! Make sure properly trained and equipped rescue personnel are alerted to respond. Do Not go out on ice! Many times would be rescuers become victims themselves. Reach, Throw, or Row. Extend a branch, pole or ladder to the victim. Throw them a bouyant object such as a life ring or float tied to a rope. If a boat is nearby row out to the victim or push it toward them. |
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Westford Firefighters Battle 5 Alarm Fire in Ayer
Westford Tower 1 extended above the Fire site wetting down hot spots, Devens Ladder in the foreground, Ayer Ladder on the left. (D.Christiana ©2007)
November 2007- Firefighters from several communities, including Westford were called to assist Ayer, MA Firefighters battle a large 5 Alarm Fire at a lumber yard on Main Street. Westford Tower 1 responded with Firefighters and set up an arial attack along with the Ayer Ladder Truck and Devens Ladder Truck. Firefighters were on scene for several hours bringing the fire under control. Westford also responded Service 2 with their Lighting Unit as well as. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Firefighters from several communities, including Westford, battled this 5 Alarm Fire in Ayer. (J.Carroll ©2007)
Crash Sends 8 to Area Hospitals
November 2007- Firefighter/EMTs responded for multiple calls of a bad crash between two vehicles in front of Kimball's Ice Cream on Littleton Road. Westford Rescue Engine 5 and two Westford Fire Ambulances responded. Once on scene, command declared an MCI, which brought in additional rescources, including ambulances from Littleton, Ayer, Groton and Trinity from Chelmsford. Emerson Hospital Advanced Life Support also responded to the scene. The Jaws of Life were used to extricate a person from their vehicle. Eight people
total were injured in the crash and were transported to area hospitals.
Firefighters Assist Pilot After Landing Plane on Route 3
September 2007- Firefighters recieved a call from State Police of a small private plane that had landed on Route 3 north, unknown if there were any injuries or emergency conditions. Engine 4 from the Oak Hill Road Station and the Ambulance responded. Once Firefighters arrived on scene, they reported no injuries and continued to assist the pilot. The pilot landed on the bridge over Make Peace Road in Westford and taxied into Tyngsboro by the Westford Road Exit. A Tyngsboro Engine was called in to relieve Engine 8 while the plane
was towed to a nearby airport.
Brush Fire Brings in Mutual Aid Companies
September 2007- Firefighters responded to a call for smoke in the area on Tenny Road. Firefighters found a brush fire approximatley 40 x 100 and went to work. Command on scene requested an Engine Company from Tyngsboro to assist Fire Crews and a Littleton Engine was called in to cover Fire Headquarters. The fire was completley extinguished by Firefighters. No injuries were reported.
Accident Leaves One Seriously Injured, MedFlighted
September 2007- Firefighters were called to reports of an accident. Firefighters discovered a vehicle into a bridge abutment with heavy damage. Firefighters were able to make contact with the driver, but needed to use the Jaws of Life to extricate the person from the vehicle due to the heavy damage. The person was then transported to a nearby landing zone where a MedFlight Helicopter was waiting to transport the victim to an advanced Trauma center due to the victim's injuries.
LifeFlight Called in for 495 Accident
August 2007- A serious accident on 495 left one person critically injured requiring advanced life support and transport by helicopter to a trauma center. Westford Firefighters were called to a serious accident on Route 495. Westford responded with Ambulance 12 and the Rescue. Littleton Fire Dept also responded to the scene. The highway had to be shut down to allow the LifeFlight Helicopter to land safely on the highway. Firefighters/EMTs prepped and loaded the person onto the helicopter before the person was transported to
an advanced trauma center. The highway was shut down for approx. one hour.
2 Alarm House Fire in Graniteville
August 2007- Firefighters responded to reports of smoke in a house in the Graniteville section of town. On arrival, Firefighters found heavy fire in a second floor bedroom with heavy smoke. A 2nd Alarm was quickly struck calling in mutual aid Engines from other towns to the scene of the fire as well as station coverage. Firefighters laid several hand lines to the bedroom and were able to make a quick knock down of the fire, however heavy overhaul was needed. Firefighters also were able to rescue a dog from the blaze.
One person was transported to the hospital for smoke inhalation. There were no other reported injuries at the morning fire. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Firefighters Battle House Fire in Nabnassett
August 2007- Firefighters battled an intense fire in the attic of a house on Sherwood Drive and prevented the fire from spreading further through the home. Firefighters found heavy smoke pushing from the eaves of the house on arrival and discovered heavy fire in the attic. The fire quickly went to a 2nd Alarm calling in mutual aid engines to the fire and to cover stations. Firefighters were able to knock the fire down quickly, though access was limited. Firefighters needed to cut a hole in the roof to allow hot gases to escape as
well as smoke. No one was injured in the daytime blaze. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
2 Alarm Fire in Brookside Mills Condo Unit
May 2007- Firefighters responded to reports of a building fire at Brookside Mills on Brookside Road in Nabnassett. Firefighters found heavy smoke and fire in a backside condo unit above the garage. Firefighters were able to gain access from the outside deck with ladders. It appears the fire started outside on the deck and burned up the side of the building. The heat from the fire broke the window and the fire went inside catching the curtains and wall by the window on fire. A nearby residential fire sprinkler activated and
was critical in keeping the fire at a controllable level, allowing Firefighters to make a quick knock down of the fire. The sprinkler helped prevent any further extension of the fire and helped keep the fire contained to the unit. The unit suffered...See Full Story Here
Brush Fire Leaves Two Firefighters Injured-Multiple
Communities Respond
May 2007- Firefighters battled a large brush/wildland fire on Keyes Road. Firefighters faced several difficult challenges right from the start of the fire. The fire was being spread from the intense wind across several acres and was threatening a house at the top of a hill. With an initial response of just the seven Firefighters on Duty, they battled the fire, dealing with several wind changes, engulfing Firefighters in heavy smoke, fire spreading in the trees, and a lack of a sufficient water supply, Firefighters were able to keep the
house safe. Firefighters also had to battle this fire on a hill with a 45 degree slope, making it a very exhausting task. Command asked for more help from surrounding communities to help with manpower and tankers to help get the fire under control. Firefighters were able to use...See Full Story Here
Burning Season Over-Fire Danger Still High
May 2007- Firefighters have battled several Brush Fires in Westford already this year, and the season for these types of fires has only begun. Residents are reminded the season to burn yard brush is over and they are no longer allowed to burn brush piles or yard scraps until next year. Residents are also reminded how important it is to dispose of smoking materials properly. Improper disposal can lead to devastating fires and injuries, especially during the dry season. It is staggering how many wildland/brush fires are started by
people throwing smoking materials out of...See Full Story Here
Firefighters Reach Out to Senior Residents-Smoke and CO Detectors replaced in Homes
May 2007- The Fire Department, in cooperation with the Cameron Senior Center, were able to reach out to our senior residents this month, by replacing Smoke Detector batteries, replace old Smoke Detectors with new Smoke Detectors and provide the residents with new Carbon Monoxide Detectors so they would be in compliance with new State CO laws. The Fire Department was able to purchase the new Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Detectors through a special SAFE Grant from the state.. See Full Story Here
Fire Ops 101 Class a Great Success!
April 2007- The Fire Ops 101 Class, put on by both Westford Firefighters and Billerica Firefighters, was a huge success. The class gave an opportunity for local Town Administrators, Town and State politicians, and Press, including Fox 25 News, to get a small glimpse first hand what a Firefighter's job entails. In order to actually take part in the event, participants had to get cleared by their physicians first, due to the very hands on activities
including Motor Vehicle Extrication using various tools including the Jaws of Life, Raising Ladders, Hose Advancement and use, Search and Rescue, and facing an actual live fire in the Flashover Trailer. Participants had to dress in Firefighter's turn out Gear and where air packs most of the day. The weather was perfect for the event and all came away with a better appreciation and understanding of what Firefighters do. Click Photo above for Photo Galleries of the day.
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