On Wednesday, Nov. 26 at 2:45 p.m., Beacon Hose responded to a report of a tractor trailer into the Naugatuck River near Exit 25 on Route 8 with an occupant still in the vehicle and the cab in the river. Engine 3, Rescue 4, BH-6, R-1 and BH-1 responded. En-route, with the information given during dispatch, BH-1 requested mutual aid assistance from Naugatuck Fire Department.
Off-duty firefighter Kevin O’Oconnell and R-1 Ambulance Coordinator Ken George were first on scene and confirmed the report of the tractor trailer off the road with an occupant inside. Unable to make patient contact a rescue plan was developed.
A rope system was assembled, and under the direction of 2nd Lt. John Mis, firefighters gained access and found the victim in the cab, unharmed. Firefighters assisted the victim, with the use of ropes, and brought him safely to the roadway.
Beacon Hose units remained on scene for the next six hours during harsh weather conditions to assist with the recovery of the tractor trailer. Beacon Hose maintained a safe scene, provided lights and safety ropes as workers were in the river removing the tractor trailer.
During this incident, we received a report of a structure fire on Main Street. Engine 3 and Engine 1, under the direction of Asst. Chief Brian DeGeorge and 1st Lt. Paul Degeorge, responded. A overheated electrical outlet scorched the wall and was contained by fire department members before the fire could spread.
Thank you to everyone who responded and stayed for more than six hours on Thanksgiving eve. It was yet another great example of the skill and dedication of Beacon Hose members.
– Chief Jim Trzaski