| Firefighting operations always carry inherent risks to those engaged, whether performing actual emergency operations or practicing the skills required to do so. We were tragically reminded of this fact last week.
On Friday, May 15, Firefighter Andrew Cross from the Morrill, ME Volunteer Fire Department was killed in an explosion that occurred as he was fighting a lumber yard fire on a mutual aid assignment to a neighboring community. FF Cross was 27 years old and a three-year member of his department. The event, reportedly due to a combustible dust explosion, also severely injured ten other firefighters. As of Saturday night, they were listed in critical or serious condition with burns.
TSFRS would like to extend our sincere condolences on to the family of FF Cross, as well as his Morrill VFD fire service family. Our thoughts and prayers for strength, ease of suffering and quick recovery are also offered for the injured and their families.
The day before, on Thursday May 14, Firefighter Steven Decker, age 61 and serving with Engine Co. 71 of the Chicago Fire Department suffered a medical emergency and died despite immediate emergency care while training with his company. He was a 30-year veteran of the fire service and was planning on retiring this fall.
TSFRS would also like to express our condolences to FF Decker’s family and the Chicago fire service community on his passing.
Firefighters always operate in a dangerous environment, no matter where they are. |
