North Thompsonville, CT, Fire Department Donates Rig to Replace One Destroyed in Searsmont, ME, Blast
The Searsmont Fire Department that lost a rig during a deadly explosion in May is getting a pumper -- thanks to the generous donation from Connecticut firefighters.
"As firefighters, we understand the critical role every piece of equipment plays in protecting our communities and supporting our members on the fireground. When we learned of their loss, we knew we had an opportunity to help. It is our honor to place this engine into service where it can continue protecting lives and property while assisting Searsmont in rebuilding their fleet. The fire service is built on brotherhood, sisterhood, and mutual aid," the North Thompsonville Fire Department announced on its Facebook page.
The May 15 explosion at Robbins Lumber claimed the lives of two firefighters -- Morrill Firefighter Andrew Cross, 27, and Searsmont Assistant Chief Wayne Woodbury, 76. WMTW reported.
North Thompsonville firefighters filled the rig with equipment and tools and a neighboring department donated about 1,500 feet of LDH fire hose, Firefighter Kyle Bell told reporters.
Searsmont, Belmont and Appleton fire departments sustained damage to their fire apparatus during the powerful blast.
Investigators believe the fire started in the area of the unloader mechanism at the base of a silo.
About the Author
Susan Nicol
News Editor
Susan Nicol is the news editor for Firehouse.com. She is a life member and active with the Brunswick Volunteer Ambulance & Rescue Company, Oxford Fire Company and Brunswick Vol. Fire Co. Susie has been an EMT in Maryland since 1976. Susie is vice-president of the Frederick County Fire/Rescue Museum. She is on the executive committee of Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association. She also is part of the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) Region II EMS Council. Susie is a board member of the American Trauma Society, Maryland Division. Prior to joining the Firehouse team, she was a staff writer for The Frederick News-Post, covering fire, law enforcement, court and legislative issues.