1940
Fire Engineers' Report
These men have now served a period of years, and together with their ability have gained experience which makes them valuable servants of the town. There have been few changes in the roster, so that the organization of the Department is a smooth working machine with a personnel of loyal and efficient men, devoted to their work.
We have made repairs to the equipment whenever needed so that all the apparatus is in first-class condition and one of the oldest pumpers in a test far exceeded the requirements of the Board of Fire Underwriters. The Fire Alarm system has been thoroughly overhauled and the sending mechanism at both the North and Centre stations has been renewed and brought up to date. With the system of Telephones and extensions in each fire station, it makes every householder with a telephone a potential fire alarm box. As some one is delegated to answer the phones day or night, the Department is better equipped than ever to render a prompt response to every alarm. Several new boxes have been installed, and cards giving the box numbers and locations have been distributed in every district.
We have endeavored in every way to promulgate preventive measures, and this work is reflected in the fire losses being greatly reduced. The Department has answered 74 alarms of fire and responded to calls in neighboring towns with whom we have maintained friendly relations for mutual assistance.
We have rendered every assistance possible to the Fire Warden, and have helped to extinguish a number of grass and brush fires.
We have received hearty cooperation when needed from the other town departments, and especially the Police Department, which assistance we gratefully acknowledge.
Forest Warden's Report
With the exception of February and December every month during 1940 had its regular quota of grass and wood fires, totaling 124 actual fires and over 20 investigations of calls made from the Tower. Over 60 of these fires were extinguished by your Forest Warden without any additional help.
Fires - The main causes of fires are three, viz.- carelessness, incinerators, and incendiarism.
Carelessness - Carelessness includes tossing cigarette and cigar butts etc from vehicles on our highways, placing incinerators (so called) in or near highly inflammable material, such as dry grass, brush piles or rubbish
Incinerators - These devices of many and varied types are the direct cause of many of our fires, and within the past few years several buildings have been damaged or destroyed by fires from this source. All types of incinerators, including open air fireplaces, must, in order to be used without obtaining a permit, be covered with a heavy wire screen of not greater than one quarter inch mesh, while in use. Wide mesh wire baskets are not permissible and require a permit. Many fires could be avoided in the course of a year if these devices were not used on windy days.
Incendiarism - Conclusive evidence has been obtained in regard to this class of fires, of which there are many in the town during the past year. Further details will probably be available in the near future.
Assistance at fires - Material assistance was rendered by the several fire departments in each of the different districts at various times. The state units also gave valuable aid at other times which is duly appreciated. The most threatening fire of the year occurred in October and except for the timely and efficient assistance rendered by Chief E. W. Bartlett and one of his trucks from Billerica we would undoubtedly have had the most serious as well as most costly fire of the year.
Care in regard to fires in 1941 - During the ensuing year the cooperation of every citizen is needed in order to keep fires at a minimum. The new rearmament program will and already is making an extreme shortage of help needed at fires. Several of our most experienced Tower operators including our own local operator, as well as local Deputy Wardens are now on this new work and will not be available this year.
Equipment - As is generally known our present forest truck owing to its extreme age and hard usage is in poor mechanical condition. It is not rugged enough to handle any more load which is needed in water capacity. The portable pump and engine purchased two years ago has been reconditioned this winter and is now in first class condition. Parts and labor for this work taken from money left from last years appropriation.
Appropriation Balance - There is a balance of appropriation returned to the town of $27.44 and there was also returned to the town $26.75 collected from various persons having illegal or unattended fires.
|
Chief Assistant Chief Assistant Chief and Clerk |
District Chiefs Dist. 1 W. T. Johnson Dist. 2 Jos. D. Ryan Dist. 3 Walter Edwards Dist. 4 Henry G. Quinn Dist. 5 Charles House |
Fire Engineers Forest Warden |
1941
Annual Town Meeting March 10, 1941
Under Article 10.
In regard to the purchase of equipment to improve the fire protection at the
High School, on a motion made by Leslie Adams it was voted to dismiss this
article.
Special Town Meeting June 2, 1941
Under Article 3.
It was voted to raise end appropriate the sum of $300.00 for the use of the
Forest Fire Department.
Special Town Meeting December 12, 1941
Under Article 7.
It was voted to raise and appropriate the sum of Two Hundred Dollars ($200) and
to transfer from the account entitled "Retaining Wall Along Beaver Brook" the
sum of Two Hundred Dollars ($200) for the purpose of reimbursing Edwin Davis for
his legal liability, while in the pursuance of his duties as a fireman, on a
judgment procured against him in a Court of Law.
Board of Fire Engineers' Report
The roster has remained practically unchanged thus insuring Town of a department manned by a group of loyal and efficient firemen.
The equipment and the fire alarm by constant supervision have been kept in first class condition and ready for instant response whenever the demand is made for their use.
The department has responded to 86 alarms of fire in Town and a number of calls out of Town.
In the latter part of April when serious forest fires raged in our neighboring Towns we had at one time four companies hard at work. We received at the time from the State Fire Marshall, the Commissioner of Conservation and the Selectmen of the Towns, the highest praise for the services rendered.
We have rendered every assistance possible to the Forest Fire Warden, and have extinguished a number of grass and brush fires.
We are planning for and hope to have in operation some day a tower for the drying of hose which will add greatly to the life of the fire hose.
We regret having to record the resignation of Harry L. Shedd the Chairman of the Board and Chief of the Department for many years. During this time he has diligently and devotedly given his time and labor and due to his rare judgment and foresight has been responsible for the highly efficient condition of the Department at the present time. His loss will be keenly felt by his associates and the Town officers as well as all the men of the Department and in his administration he has set up a standard that has brought credit to the Town and honor to himself.
Forest Warden's Report
The year just passed produced the most unusual and dangerous fire conditions in our wooded areas, being very dry as well as very windy throughout, from the day of the first fire on March 6th until the last on December 23rd. Of the 173 fires occurring during the year, all with the exception of a very few, were extinguished before covering any large acreage or causing much damage.
Chelmsford is very fortunate in having an observation tower located in the Town, by means of which fires are discovered and accurately located at their start.
The new truck purchased last year and put into operation in the summer, is an improvement over the old, being of greater water capacity as well as greater power, and works very nicely.
As expected, a shortage of labor for handling fires developed early in the year, making necessary many calls for units of the Fire Dept. in order to obtain help enough to prevent fires from getting beyond control. For this year the outlook seems to be much worse in regard to help, because the men who were formally available, are for the most part, either in the Army or on defense work, including many former Deputy Wardens.
Two changes in the Fire Laws go into effect this year, first the fire permit law has been changed so that permits for fires will not be issued during the months of April and May. Second, a new law requiring patrols be established in the town on days of extreme fire danger goes into effect this year.
|
Chief Assistant Chief Assistant Chief and Clerk |
District Chiefs Dist. 1 W. T. Johnson Dist. 2 Jos. D. Ryan Dist. 3 Walter Edwards Dist. 4 Henry G. Quinn Dist. 5 Charles House |
Board of Fire Engineers Forest Warden |
1942
Board of Fire Engineers' Report
This year has been filled with many and unusual problems which have been the common lot of all connected with government. The Board have had their share and have tried to solve them for the best interests of the town and for the safety of the citizens and their property.
One of our chief problems has been the numerous changes in personnel all of whom have been trained men and their loss has been keenly felt. Among these were our chief at South Chelmsford, Charles House and the Captain at the Centre, Allan Kidder. Both these men have served the Department faithfully over a long period of time.
However this is our contribution to the defense of our Country and we are proud of our boys who have joined the armed forces to fight for freedom and righteousness. Their places have been filled with others whose zeal and earnestness promises that our efficiency will not be impaired.
We have cooperated with the Defense Committee in organizing a group of auxiliary firemen who will serve us well when the emergency comes.
The fuel oil situation with its rationing has necessitated the inspection of equipment and storage facilities in over 700 homes, the issuing of permits and the collection of $364.50 in fees which sum has been turned over to the Town Treasurer.
In spite of priorities and difficulties in obtaining supplies and replacements we have succeeded in anticipating our needs so that apparatus, equipment and quarters are all in first class condition and ready to meet the test when the call may come.
We have maintained friendly relations with the Departments of surrounding cities and towns and they stand ready to furnish us with help whenever called. We in turn have rendered them service on several occasions including the City of Lowell, whose aid is and has been a most valuable asset.
We have worked closely with our Forest Fire Warden whose excellent work has coped with many brush fires and prevented extensive damage from this source.
Forest Warden's Report
I shall devote the main part of my report this year to the immediate needs of this department, rather than the usual summary of last years activities.
I am introducing an article in the Annual Town Meeting Warrant this year to purchase a new pump and other necessary fittings, together with 500 feet of new l 1/2 inch hose, which will cost approximately $900.00 to be installed and become an integral part of the new truck purchased in 1941.
The main reasons for this are to make the truck one that can be quickly and easily put into operation by one man and to obtain a greater volume of water at higher pressure than is now possible. By this means the Town also obtains an extra piece of apparatus comparable to the large pumpers which will be available, in case of emergency anywhere in Town, should the main apparatus be in use.
In regard to the customary appropriation of $900.00 for the operation and maintenance of the department; it is evident on analyzing the situation that it is and has been for several years an insufficient sum, owing to the fact that the fixed charges are now much greater than in previous years. Formerly of the $900.00 appropriated about $100.00 was in fixed charges, and now nearly $600.00 is in form of fixed expense, due to increase in Forest Warden salary - cost of telephones - insurance; this leaves $300.00 to attend all other, which includes, gasoline, oil, repairs, soda, acid and many other small items as well as including labor at fires.
Many times during any year, box alarms, are sent in, calling out the Fire Dept. for grass and woods fires and the cost of this is borne by this department. These alarms average between $4 and $5 per call, which will be greater this year owing to increased pay granted recently.
The amount asked for this year does not completely meet the needs of the department; The small equipment such as pump cans, extinguishers (chemical) brooms, etc, of which none have been purchased for many years, and that left of the old lot is in poor condition.
Briefly, in regard to last years fire season. The weather conditions were nearly more normal than for some years previously, rain occurring frequently, which cut the number of fires to 112. Forty of these were extinguished without any help by your Forest Warden and 10 others with one man. Thirty-seven were box alarms in various sections of the Town, of the remainder extra help up to 10 men was required.
This information is given in advance of the Town Meeting, in order that the Citizens of the Town may determine, whether or not, to increase the efficiency of the department. I sincerely hope that the Citizens of the Town will take favorable action on this article, at the annual meeting next March.
|
Chief Assistant Chief Assistant Chief and Clerk |
District Chiefs Dist. 1 Wilhelm T. Johnson Dist. 2 Joseph D. Ryan Dist. 3 Walter Edwards Dist. 4 Henry G. Quinn Dist. 5 Charles House (Enlisted in the military) |
Board of Fire Engineers Forest Warden |
1943
Annual Town Meeting March 8, 1943
Under Article 12:
On a motion made by Herbert M. Sturtevant, it was noted: To raise and
appropriate the sum of $900.00 for the purpose of purchasing new equipment for
the Forest fire Department. The same to be expended under the direction of the
Forest Warden.
Board of Fire Engineers' Report
The roster of the Department has been depleted this past year due to the drafting of the men for the Armed Services, there being at the present time eight regular men in the Service, two of whom are overseas. The men of the Department and the Board Join in wishing these men a safe return.
The equipment of the Department and the signal system have been kept in first class condition despite the extra demands made upon them by the test blackouts and air raids, as conducted during the past year. There is still a great amount of fire equipment that is not available due to restricted manufacture and general war conditions. The Board is pleased to announce, however, the purchase of a portable generator lighting outfit consisting of two 500-watt floodlights, a 250-watt spot light cable, fittings, etc. We believe this will fill a much needed want of the Department by supplying sufficient light at night fires or for any other emergency that may require its services.
We have rendered all assistance possible to the Forest Fire Warden, who has been seriously handicapped in the performance of his duties by the shortage of available man power.
The Department has responded to a total of 89 alarms during the year which are classified as follows: building fires-31; chimney fires-25; brush-12; automoblle-7; oil burners-4; false alarms-4-; electric light poles-2; tar kettle-1; out-of-town-1; drowning-l; and rescue of dog from well-1.
The Board has cooperated to Its fullest extent with the committee named by the Board of Selectmen at the request of the Massachusetts Emergency Public Works Commission regarding post war planning for the Town of Chelmsford.
We regret having to record the resignation of John M. Kemp, Assistant Chief and Clerk for many years. During this time he has served the Town faithfully and his well-kept records are a credit to the Town and an honor to him.
We extend to the Police Department our appreciation for their assistance in summoning additional men and apparatus when needed by means of their two-way radio. Our appreciation is extended to all others who have assisted the Department in the performance of its duties.
Forest Warden's Report
Although the fire season this year did not start until March 22, a large number of fires in grass and woodlands have occurred (l76 to date with some reports outstanding), making a close approach to the peak year of 1939 when about 200 fires were extinguished.
As usual the spring months accounted for the larger proportion, owing to the extremely dry and windy conditions; another dry and windy period was experienced from July 1-20 when a number of bad fires were started, but the most unusual condition of the year is at the present writing.
A number of fires have started this month of December (38 calls to date) and dangerous fire hazards still exist. As many as four fires have been extinguished on some of these calls.
Attention is called to the extreme hazard in the coming spring months, owing to several unusual factors, such as the abnormal growth of last season and many acres of uncut hay, which will provide highly inflammable fuel at that time.
The lack of firemen Is another factor to reckon with. The Forest Department is without any help most of the time, and the regular company's department has lost many trained firemen to the Draft and defense work. Therefore, it is very important to use great care when starting any fire anywhere outside and never to do so when there is any wind.
Anyone starting a fire, whether with or without a permit, whether in an incinerator, fireplace, or other device, is entirely responsible both for the cost of extinguishing such fire, if allowed to get beyond control, and any and all damage resulting there-from.
All fires in the open are banned by State law during the months of April and May. No permits may be Issued and no fire can be legally kindled in this period.
Excellent cooperation and assistance has been rendered by both the Police and Fire companies of different districts of the Town this year. The Police radio has been especially useful in relaying information at the scene of several fires.
Considerable delay in obtaining delivery of the new Centrifugal pump, hose and other equipment, authorized at the last annual Town Meeting, was due partly to having to wait for priority ratings from Washington, and waiting our turn at the factory. However, the pump was finally received late in July, installed and put into service by September 1. In operation this pump exceeds any claims made as to its efficiency and is an excellent addition to the forest fire equipment. This makes a valuable addition to the Town Fire Department, as it will now be available for emergency apparatus at any fire.
|
Chief Assistant Chief Assistant Chief and Clerk |
District Chiefs Dist. 1 Wilhelm T. Johnson Dist. 2 Joseph D. Ryan Dist. 3 Walter Edwards Dist. 4 Henry G. Quinn Dist. 5 Sidney Dupee (Acting Chief) |
Board of Fire Engineers Forest Warden |
1944
Annual Town Meeting March 13, 1944
Under Article 7:
On a motion made by John Dixon to raise and appropriate the sum of Fourteen
Hundred Dollars for the purpose of procuring plans and specifications for two
proposed fire stations, one in the Centre and one in North Chelmsford, and that
the procurement of said plans and specifications be under the direction,
authority and supervision of the Board of Fire Engineers, this motion was
defeated.
Special Request by the Board of Fire Engineers
Your Board of Fire Engineers consider the following paragraphs as important as anything printed in this Report and we ask you to please read them carefully.
A study of our Fire Department, and comparison with others in towns of like size, shows that our fire protection is inadequate. Changes in equipment and personnel are needed. They cannot be made all at once, but a start should be made this year, and continued until complete. To consider the problem intelligently certain basic facts must be understood. Briefly they are:
- Geographical set-up - 22.5 square miles to cover, divided into 5 villages. Each has its own signal system, men and truck to handle building fires. A separate unit, under the Forest Warden, handles brush fires for the whole town. It has no signal system other than the telephone.
- Water Supply - Adequate. Most but not all sections covered.
- Personnel - Inadequate. Only two permanent men. No 24 hour coverage. Can't control volunteers who average only 39 cents a week.
- Quarters - Inadequate and inefficient. Can't house men for 24 hour coverage. Rapid depreciation of equipment such as hose because of improper drying facilities. Rents paid are dead loss to town, almost $800.00 a year. No central control.
We recommend the following changes listed in the order of their importance:
- Two new fire houses, one in the North Village and one in the
Center, with these as a start come:
- Centralization of all equipment in modern plants with facilities for proper care, plus housing of personnel, plus room for expansion.
- A large enough force of permanent men to insure 24 hour coverage by trained men.
- A centralized signal system with one phone to a central dispatcher (now 5) for all calls, plus more alarm boxes as time goes on.
- Extension of water to all sections within reason.
- Replacement of obsolete trucks and home made equipment on a gradual basis.
Capital expenditures for buildings and heavy equipment can be handled on a long term basis without causing undue hardship. We have no desire to increase tax rates.
Our present set-up will remain inefficient and inadequate unless you the property owners and voters of the town are willing to cooperate with us your appointed engineers. We welcome suggestions and constructive criticism, but offer the thought that we three men, having made a lengthy study of our department, and having compared it with others, as a group are bound to have more intimate knowledge of its needs than anyone else. That is what we are appointed for. We accept the responsibility however only so long as you the property owners and voters back us up.
A central control and signal system, in proper quarters, with a small well trained permanent force of men to steer our loyal volunteers, and man the trucks 24 hrs. a day is the answer to proper fire protection in Chelmsford. It also is probably the only thing that will allow us to continue the low rates of fire insurance we now enjoy. Which is better, higher insurance rates with the protection we now have, or the same or lower rates and a little higher tax but much better protection? The final cost is the same. It is for you to decide.
We have had inserted in the warrant a request for a sum of money to pay for plans for new fire houses, from which we can secure estimates to submit to you at a later date. This request should be granted.
Board of Fire Engineers' Report
The call for additional manpower for the armed services still continues to make itself felt in the department there being at the present time fourteen members of the Chelmsford Fire Department in the service of their country.
We regret having to record this year the deaths of two members of the department, Silas Gauthier of the North Company and Eugene Crockett of the East Company. These men have served the Town faithfully and our sympathy is extended to their families at this time.
The past year saw the Town once again being visited by a hurricane. The response of the men and auxiliary firemen to the emergency is to be commended, all of whom responded and remained on duty until morning without compensation. The alarm system was damaged considerably by falling trees and branches necessitating the replacing of many of the alarm wires both in North and Center.
The department has responded to a total of 6l alarms during the year which are classified as follows:- Building fires—25; Chimney fires—12; False alarm—6; Oil burners—5; Dumpfires—4; Brush fires—3 Automobile—3; Electric light wires—1; Accidental death—1; Drowning—1
The response to these alarms by districts was as follows
- District No 1 (Center) 36
- District No 2 (North) 17
- District No 3 (West) 4
- District No 4 (East) 5
- District No 5 (South) 3
Included in the response to alarms by districts are four calls for aid to their districts as follows:
- District No One - 1
- District No Two - 2
- District No Four - 1
Forest Warden's Report
The year of 1944 was practically a continuous fire season with the exception of February when only one call for fire was registered. Of the 130 calls sent in the rest of the year, it was necessary to call assistance only 6 times, which proves that the Forest Truck with the new pump can control the greater number of fires with the minimum of help as indicated in my report of 1942.
In every instance when it was necessary to call for additional help, simultaneous fires occurred, which always creates a condition of confusion, which allows one or more fires to gain too much start to be handled by one or two men.
All through the summer dry season large fires occurred in adjacent towns, and the fact that Chelmsford was spared any major fires, is due in part, I am sure, to the excellent cooperation of the Citizens, by burning only when proper conditions exist.
In return for granting me an increase in salary at the last annual Town Meeting I have removed the charges formerly made for storage and maintenance of the apparatus and equipment.
|
Chief Assistant Chief Assistant Chief and Clerk |
District Chiefs Dist. 1 Wilhelm T. Johnson Dist. 2 Joseph D. Ryan Dist. 3 Walter Edwards Dist. 4 Henry G. Quinn Dist. 5 Sidney Dupee (Acting Chief) |
Board of Fire Engineers Forest Warden |
1945
Annual Town Meeting March 12, 1945
UNDER ARTICLE 11.
On a motion made by John Dixon, it was voted to authorize the Moderator to
appoint a committee of four persons to work with the Board of Fire Engineers for
the purpose of obtaining complete plans, specifications, and costs of erecting
two new fire stations, one in the Center and one in North Chelmsford; and raise
and appropriate the sun of $1400.00 to be expended by this Committee to procure
said plans, specifications and costs, said Committee to make a full and complete
report at a special Town Meeting to be called for that purpose. The Moderator
appointed, John J. Monahan; William T. Picken; Harold A. Fraser and Theodore W.
Emerson.
Special Town Meeting December 4, 1945
UNDER ARTICLE 2.
On a motion made by John Dixon it was voted that the Town authorize a Board of
Fire Engineers to accept in lieu of complete plans, specifications, and cost of
erecting two new fire stations, which is contained under Article 11 in the
Warrant of the last annual Town Meeting held on March 12, 1945, such plan as in
the judgment of the Fire Engineers seems suitable to make a report at the next
annual Town Meeting.
Board of Fire Engineers' Report
The roster of the Department has been strengthened by the return of several veterans from the armed services and the men of the Department and the Board welcome these men home again with their sincere thanks for a job well done.
The purchase of new equipment is still a problem. The return to prewar production of fire equipment has not been as rapid as was hoped for, however, a new alarm box was purchased and installed near the Highland Avenue School in the North District.
We regret having to announce the resignation of District Chief Wilhelm T. Johnson who for thirty two years has been a member of the Department. During this term of service he has served as District Chief for twenty-five years. This is indeed a record of civic duty that will be difficult to equal and the Board at this time wishes to thank Mr. Johnson for his faithful attendance and interest in his duties.
Forest Warden's Report
The forest fire conditions prevailing during 1945 were less hazardous than in any previous year for some time, with the exception of the early part through April 20th during this period several fires were extinguished in various sections of the town, that could easily have developed into extensive and expensive events.
Of 107 calls for the apparatus for the year only 45 of these required extra help, the others being handled by your Warden.
Owing to the large numbers of incendiary fire in the Town in 1945 I think it advisable to include in this report a section of the Fire Laws, not generally known, which reads as follows:
Forest Trespass and Damage, etc.
G. L. o. 266-5. Setting Fire to Woodpile, etc. Whoever willfully and maliciously
burns or otherwise destroys or injures a pile or parcel of wood, boards, timber
or other lumber, or any fence, bars or gate, or a stack of grain, hay or other
vegetable product, or any vegetable product severed from the soil and not
stacked or any standing tree, grain, grass or other standing product of the
soil, or the soil itself, of another, shall be punished by imprisonment in the
state prison for not more than five years or by a fine of not more than five
hundred dollars and imprisonment in jail for not more than one year.
At such times when necessary I have received excellent and prompt cooperation from all the various units of the Fire Department and the Police Department, also a few individuals who are always ready and able, day or night to assist in emergency, namely: Mr. Walter Edwards, Dist. Chief of West Chelmsford; Mr. Edward Hoyt, Asst. Engr. of Fire Dept and Dep. Warden George A. Parkhurst of the Centre.
|
Chief Assistant Chief and Clerk Assistant Chief |
District Chiefs Dist. 1 Wilhelm T. Johnson Dist. 2 Joseph D. Ryan Dist. 3 Walter Edwards Dist. 4 Henry G. Quinn Dist. 5 Sidney Dupee (Acting Chief) |
Board of Fire Engineers Forest Warden |
1946
and McFarlin Junior High School (Chelmsford Fire Department Collection)
Special Town Meeting September 9, 1946
UNDER ARTICLE 1.
On a motion made by William T. Picken, to raise and appropriate the sum of
$100,000.00 for the purpose of constructing and equipping two fire houses, one
in the Centre of the Town and one in North Chelmsford, Mr. Charles P. Wright
moved that this article and motion be dismissed and a hand vote was taken. 202
voted to dismiss the article and 96 voted not to dismiss the article. The
article was dismissed and Mr. John J. Buchanan moved that the report of the
Committee appointed for the purpose of bringing in plans and report in regard to
fire houses be accepted and that the Committee be discharged with a vote of
thanks for the work performed.
Board of Fire Engineers' Report
In order that the townspeople may be better informed as to the age and type of fire equipment operating under the Board of Fire Engineers we submit the following information:
| District | Make | Type | Capacity | Age | |
| West | Brockway | Pumper | 250 g.p.m. | 26 years | |
| West | Chandler | Brush fire | 25 years | ||
| Center | Brockway | Hose wagon | 23 years | ||
| East | Maxim | Pumper | 500 g.p.m. | 21 years | |
| North | Maxim | Pumper | 500 g.p.m. | 15 years | |
| South | Maxim | Pumper | 250 g.p.m. | 12 years | |
| Center | Maxim | Pumper | 500 g.p.m. | 11 years |
It would seem from a study of the above information that the time is coming, if not already here, when some money must be spent on new equipment. Such expenditures have a direct bearing on the tax rate and especially so if they are large in any one year. It is certainly much easier to set aside a nominal sum of money each year than to have to appropriate large amounts in any one year. This brings about the suggestion that a sinking fund be established in this town for the sole purpose of purchasing new equipment at definite times and the Board of Engineers recommends that some such procedure be adopted.
The Board of Engineers at this time regrets having to record the resignation of Theodore W. Reed. During his term of office he has served faithfully and has been at all times conscientious in the discharge of his duties as a member of the Board.
Forest Warden's Report
During 1946, 152 calls for fire were answered by the Forest Warden and 40 other fires were extinguished by various units of the Fire Department, making a total of nearly 200 fires altogether, which amounts to more than the usual average.
On account of a certain few mercenary minded persons in the town, it was necessary to maintain night patrols for one week in the Spring and again in the Fall. In spite of this added expense of the department about $25 was returned to the Town.
This being my last report as Forest Warden I wish to thank those persons and Officials for services rendered at critical times. Last year and every previous year disastrous fires have been averted by the narrowest of margins in many instances.
I am retiring as Forest Warden with considerable satisfaction in knowing that during my eleven years connection with the Department no major fire has occurred.
|
Chief Assistant Chief and Clerk Assistant Chief |
District Chiefs Dist. 1 Allan Kidder Dist. 2 Joseph D. Ryan Dist. 3 Sidney Dupee Dist. 4 Henry G. Quinn Dist. 5 Walter Edwards |
Board of Fire Engineers Forest Warden |
1947
Annual Town Meeting March 10, 1947
UNDER ARTICLE 12.
On a motion made by John Dixon to raise and appropriate the sum of Sixty-five
Hundred ($6500) Dollars for the purchasing of a fire truck for the Fire
Department a hand vote was taken. 214 voted NO. 145 Voted YES.
Special Town Meeting June 30, 1947
UNDER ARTICLE 10.
After lengthy arguments both pro and con, a motion to dismiss this article by
Mr. Fraser of the Finance Committee was lost, a motion made by Mr. Dixon of the
Fire Engineers was lost. On a motion made by Alvin Snell, it was voted: To
appropriate and transfer from the Excess and Deficiency Account the sum of
$4,000.00 for the purpose of purchasing a new motorized fire truck to be housed
in the fire station at West Chelmsford.
Special Town Meeting September 29, 1947
UNDER ARTICLE SEVEN: On motion made to accept Sections 42, 43 and 44 of Chapter 48 of the General Laws on a hand vote taken, 56 voted in the affirmative and 93 voted in the negative, the motion lost and the article dismissed. This article referred to the appointment of a Chief for the Fire Department.
Board of Fire Engineers' Report
The Board of Fire Engineers as now organized was appointed in October and consequently had control of the fire department only during the final three months of the year. During this time, the Board has delved deeply into ways and means of improving the department as a whole—primarily as regards centralization. At present, there are five distinct companies, each operating under a district chief. Each has its own telephone line, its own truck and equipment, such as it is. An alarm can be sounded in the Center, or any other district, without any other company being aware of the fact that there is a fire in the town or that the company of that particular district is out fighting a fire.
As the first step to overcome this unsatisfactory condition, we have conferred with the New England Telephone and Telegraph Company concerning a centralized telephone hook-up with a switchboard, connecting all companies. If funds are voted for this improvement, all fire calls will be made by calling one number; all fire calls will be handled through one central point; this central point will be aware of any fire in town and, through this central station, extra companies may be sent to the fire and other district chiefs may be made aware of the fire, so that at least one additional company may be held in readiness to "cover in" for the district where the fire is, should another alarm of fire be sounded.
As a temporary measure, to tide us over until this or a similar system can be installed, we have instructed all district chiefs to immediately call for assistance at any fire of any size, believing it to be far better to have too many companies at a fire than to have not enough.
We have purchased some much-needed equipment with the funds available this year, and hope to bring the equipment of each company up to a satisfactory level in 1948. We also are planning to spruce up the various fire stations owned by the town by painting the interiors and doors.
The Board decided not to ask for any new fire apparatus in 1948, but believed that, starting in 1949, replacement of present equipment will have to get under way. Most of the equipment is from 12 to 21 years old, and even though these trucks are not in daily use, they are far from satisfactory in view of the steady growth of the town and the increasing demands upon them.
We are asking in 1948 for funds to establish a call company in Precinct 6, the Westlands. This section is third largest in the town but it is without a fire company and must depend upon the Center. At present, if the Center company is at a fire and an alarm comes from the Westlands, help must be called from one of the more distant stations. If this appropriation is approved, arrangements will be made to have the spare truck at the Center respond, in such a case, and the Westlands company could man the truck and take over the task of fighting the fire. This situation might not arise once in a year—but it might arise often and could result in serious loss unless some provision such as this were made.
Centralization of the fire alarm systems is being studied at present, but it is impossible, in the short time this Board has been in existence, to secure all necessary data.
The Board reports with regret the retirement of Joseph G. Ryan as district chief in the North section after many years of faithful and conscientious service for the best interests of the town and the fire department. Succeeding him as district chief is Chandler Robinson, a member of the North company for several years.
Forest Warden's Report
During the year 1947 there were 165 calls for Forest or grass fires. There were 1104 permits issued during the year but many of the calls were for fires started without any permit.
The Town received a refund in the amount of $46.90 from the New York, New Haven and Hartford Railroad for a fire caused by a train - one of the worst fires in the spring.
The regular firemen responding to Forest Fire calls were paid at the same rate per hour as paid by the regular Fire Dept.—all others were paid $.75 per hour instead of the usual $.50.
During the year there were many fires of suspicious origin. Two offenders were apprehended and under questioning, admitted setting the fires. After being properly reprimanded were turned over to the custody of their parents.
In 1947 there were only two real bad fire conditions: April and October. The latter was the most hazardous time in years and during that time there was a constant patrol as well as extra help on duty during the day for a period of about ten days. The fine cooperation between the Board of Fire Engineers and the Forest Warden was shown during this time when the South Chelmsford Fire Truck was made available to the Forestry Department.
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Chief Assistant Chief Clerk |
Board of Fire Engineers |
Forest Warden |
1948
Special Town Meeting July 26, 1948
UNDER ARTICLE 2.
It was voted to dismiss this article in regard to the purchase of a new Forest
Fire Truck.
UNDER ARTICLE 8.
On a motion made by Charles D. Harrington it was voted to raise and appropriate
the sum of $200.00 for the Fire Department for the purpose of paying labor
incurred at Fires.
UNDER ARTICLE 13.
On a motion made by Chief of Police Ralph J. Hulslander to allow the Town to
purchase uniforms for the Police and Firemen under Section 6-B of Chapter 40 of
the General Laws - this motion was defeated and the article dismissed.
Special Town Meeting October 22, 1948
UNDER ARTICLE 5.
On a motion made by Allan Kidder, it was voted to transfer from the Excess and
Deficiency account the sum of $325.00 for the purpose of purchasing a new
portable pump for the Forest Fire Department.
UNDER ARTICLE 5.
On a motion made by Allan Kidder, it was voted to transfer from the Excess and
Deficiency account the sum of $1,000.00 for the purpose of purchasing a new pump
for the Forest Fire Department.
Board of Fire Engineers' Report
During the year just ended, the town has been fortunate in that it has suffered no severe losses by fire, and we must attribute this, in part at least, to the exercise of greater care by the residents of this community.
The fire department now numbers seven permanent employees working 48 hours a week, supplemented by volunteer companies in each of the Center, North, East, West and South districts. The Westlands now has a skeleton force of five volunteers to provide additional man-power in the event of a fire in that heavily-built residential section, but it is dependent upon the Center for fire apparatus.
Among the improvements accomplished during the year was the installation of a central telephone switchboard, which replaced the individually-listed telephones in the various districts and which provided for a central control of firefighting activities. At the same time, it gave the town residents only one telephone number to remember in the event of an emergency.
The alarm whistle at the Center was improved by the installation of a modern air compressor. Fire apparatus has been repaired and kept in as good condition as possible. However, with the exception of Engine 3, in West Chelmsford, which was delivered early this year, all of the apparatus is old, and some is antiquated. The town cannot much longer defer the replacement of the present apparatus at the Center and North stations, usirtg these two trucks to replace those in the East and South stations. The truck in East has outlived its usefulness and repair charges are mounting annually.
The Center, Westlands and North sections have far outgrown the existing fire alarm circuits and steps will have to be taken during 1949 to extend and enlarge the circuits; to install at least 10 new fire alarm boxes and, if housing development continues at the present rate, much more elaborate systems will have to be installed to provide adequate protection. The engineers are planning to gradually bring the various alarm systems into one unit to increase protection of property in all sections.
The major extensions in the various water districts this year have increased the protection greatly, for the districts have co-operated by placing hydrants along all new mains.
Further improvements in the department are being planned, but many of these cannot be completed until the town can see its way clear to provide moderately-priced and efficiently planned fire stations in the Center and North districts to house the type of apparatus and equipment needed to combat fires in these days when highly-inflammable oils and gasses are being generally used in dwellings for heating and cooking.
Forest Warden's Report
The year 1948 turned out to be a very mild year in regard to forest and grass fires. The department answered 164 calls - one less than the previous year. There were 1624 permits issued for fires in the open; this being a greater number than the year previous. It is the wish of the Forest Warden that more people would become familiar with the laws governing fires in the open, for it is necessary to receive a permit for any fire in the open unless the ground is completely covered with snow.
A radio was voted for the department at the annual town meeting and this piece of equipment has helped to control fire loss and was instrumental in the department being able to refund a balance in the "Labor at Fires" appropriation.
On September 29, 1948, the pump used on the Forest Fire Truck became useless and had to be replaced. The portable pump, out of order for sometime, was also replaced at this time.
mounted on the rear of the 1941 Chevrolet Forest Fire Service Truck (Chelmsford Fire Department Collection)
The department's equipment, excluding the truck, is in very good condition. There is more one and one-eighth Forestry hose needed as well as Booster hose. These items are being included in the 1949 budget.
It was necessary to call on the Fire Department for help this past year, but in return the services of the Forest Fire Truck and equipment are made available to the Fire Department at all times.
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Chief Engineer Deputy Clerk |
Board of Fire Engineers |
Forest Warden |
1949
Annual Town Meeting March 14, 1949
UNDER ARTICLE 21:
It was voted that the Moderator appoint a Committee of persons consisting of two
taxpayers, two members of the Fire Engineers and One Finance Committee Member, a
Committee to study the needs and the advisability of purchasing a new fire truck
to be housed at North Chelmsford and to bring in the cost of such apparatus and
make complete report at the next annual town meeting. The Moderator appointed as
this Committee. Harry Shedd, John Dusseault, Walter Edwards, Gilbert Perham and
Arthur Nystrom.
UNDER ARTICLE 23:
It was voted to raise and appropriate the sum of $1,680.00 for the purpose of
purchasing gas masks for the Fire Department under Chapter 337 of the Acts of
1948.
Special Town Meeting June 13, 1949
UNDER ARTICLE 4:
On a motion made by Carl A. E. Peterson it was voted to accept the provisions of
Section 111A of the General Laws as amended by the Acts of 1949, regarding the
payment of vacation pay to the firemen and policemen employed by the Town.
Board of Fire Engineers' Report
The year has been one of steady progress, thanks to the cooperation of the town government and the voters who approved our appropriation last March.
During the year, we have been able to make many major improvements to our buildings, including new boilers at both the East and South Chelmsford stations, to reroof the South station and repair the roof of the Center station, along with other repairs of minor nature.
We also have been able to do a great deal of work on the fire alarm systems in the North and Center areas, to improve the whistle in the Center and to provide fire alarm boxes for several schools which were without this protection.
Another improvement was the addition of 40-foot plus ladders for both the Center and North fire trucks. This is a major safety measure as it provides a means for the rescue of persons who might become trapped in any of the larger buildings in town. It is, of course, a poor substitute for a ladder truck or aerial ladder, but we realize that the cost of purchasing and operating either a ladder truck or aerial would too great for the town at present.
and Chief Engineer Walter Edwards next to the ladder (Chelmsford Fire Department Collection)
For 1950 we are asking additional funds for fire alarm improvements, with the purpose in view of establishing' a moderate system that will provide full protection.
We also are asking again for funds to purchase a new piece of fire apparatus - a fire truck built for fire-fighting purposes and designed to last at least 20 years under the type of service it would provide in a town this size.
We sincerely hope that money will be appropriated this year for this purpose. Our present apparatus is getting old - in fact, some of it is too old for economical maintenance - and our repair bills are mounting and will continue to mount until the old apparatus is retired.
Forest Warden's Report
With all the extreme hazardous conditions this area experienced in the year, 1949, our town was very fortunate in keeping the loss by fire at a minimum.
The Department answered 183 calls for Forest or Grass fires, an increase of 19 calls over the previous year. Of these fires, only one reached a size of major proportion, it being off Graniteville Road in West Chelmsford. This fire was definitely set. It was started deep in the woods and was so located that until it had gained much headway could not be spotted by either the Robin Hill Observer or by the land owner. There was a brisk wind the day it started. Added to that, the town's only Forest Fire Truck was out of order due to a breakdown the day before. Therefore we were depending on State aid at that time and also the use of Engine 3 of the Fire Dept.
In the past year 1870 permits for fires in the open were issued an increase of 246 permits over the previous year. It might be well to state at this time that a recent change in the General Laws now states that a permit must be secured from the Forest Fire Warden before any fire may be lighted in the open at any time.
A great deal of assistance was received by your town from the State Dept. of Conservation in the past year. It being in the form of a manned piece of Forest Fire Apparatus whenever our needs required.
The equipment on our truck was greatly improved by the addition of an extra booster reel and hose. Old hose needs replacing this year, along with other equipment that has worn beyond repair. Frequently breakdowns occurred in the Forest Fire Truck last year and more are contemplated this year.
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Chief Engineer Deputy Clerk |
Board of Fire Engineers |
Forest Warden |