Pawtucket & Central Falls Thank Mutual Aid Communities

Over 60 Engines and Ladders Used to Help Extinguish Fire

The Cities of Pawtucket and Central Falls thank the municipalities throughout Rhode Island and Massachusetts who provided mutual aid to the hard working men and women of the Public Safety Department. Pawtucket Mayor Donald R. Grebien and Central Falls Mayor James A. Diossa recognize the efforts of the municipalities and their staff across the state on such a critical matter. A total of 43 engines and 23 ladders were on the scene throughout the course of the day.

“It is amazing the level of support that we had from our neighboring communities,” said Pawtucket Fire Chief Bill Sisson. “Thanks to their mutual aid, we were able to get all of the displaced residents back into their home last night. We know how scary it can be when people cannot get into their homes and places of comfort. This is what makes their assistance that much more rewarding.”

“This was a complete group effort, and we showed what fire departments can do when we work together,” said Central Falls Fire Chief Bob Bradley. “I would like to also recognize the great work of the Pawtucket-Central Falls Emergency Management Agency, the Red Cross, the Knights of Columbus, and everyone who came to assist our displaced residents.”

Both Chiefs also thanked the residents in the surrounding area for their patience, support, and understanding as the Fire Departments combatted the fire.

A box alarm call came in at 3:07 am, and there was an active fire upon arrival of the first responders. Dexter Street and Barton Street on to Weeden Street were shut down and evacuated. No one was injured throughout the fire.

The scene is still an active scene as Public Safety personnel continue to look for and extinguish hot spots. In total, nine buildings were involved with various levels of damage ranging from total collapse to standing with heavy fire damage. It is anticipated that some of the heavily damaged buildings that are still standing may eventually have to be knocked down.

Municipalities that assisted Pawtucket and Central Falls include:

·      Attleboro

·      Burrillville

·      Cranston

·      Cumberland

·      East Greenwich

·      East Providence

·      Foster

·      Johnston

·      Lincoln

·      Mansfield

·      North Attleboro

·      North Kingstown

·      North Providence

·      Plainville

·      Providence

·      Seekonk

·      Smithfield

·      Swansea

·      Warren

·      Warwick

·      Westerly

·      Woonsocket

·      Wrentham