Englishtown Fire Chief Lou Sarti said the death of long-time firefighter Pasquale "Pete the Pepper" DiBenedetto on Thursday has left a big hole in the close-knit volunteer department in Monmouth County. "It's a very big loss," Sarti said of the 47-year veteran of the department. "It's a hole I don't know if we'll be able to fill.
- PUB DATE: 8/6/2018 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: NJ.com

The Civil Service Commission has denied an appeal from District Fire Chief Samuel Richesson who, despite scoring highest on the Civil Service exam, was passed over for promotion to deputy chief after his performance in an interview. “The preponderance of the evidence shows that Mr. Richesson performed poorly during his interview,” Christopher C.
- PUB DATE: 8/6/2018 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Worcester Telegram & Gazette

Paramedics in an Indianapolis suburb will begin providing laughing gas instead of powerful opioid painkillers to patients. Fishers officials say the use of nitrous oxide is expected to reduce the amount of fentanyl administered to injured patients by about two-thirds. Fishers Fire Capt. John Mehling tells The Indianapolis Star using the gas commonly given in dentist offices will reduce the risk of addiction and harmful side effects with fentanyl.
- PUB DATE: 8/6/2018 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Northwest Indiana Times

Responding to a conflict-of-interest controversy, the Oakridge City Council voted Thursday evening to consider terminating the contractor serving as its fire chief. The council voted 5-1 to meet with city attorneys in a nonpublic session to discuss potentially ending its contract with Michael Hansen.
- PUB DATE: 8/6/2018 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Eugene Register-Guard

Six people trapped in their apartments were rescued by firefighters from a burning three-story building Sunday afternoon in a fire that required “a massive effort” by the entire force of 88 firefighters on duty. Acting Deputy Assistant Chief Stephen Houle said firefighters arriving at 155 Elmwood Ave.
- PUB DATE: 8/6/2018 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Providence Journal