08/10/2026
A Message from Assistant Chief Scotty Lefebvre:
When the Call Comes Home: A Heartfelt Thank You.
On Saturday, August 8, 2026, I experienced something every firefighter hopes never happens—the fire call that comes to your own home.
I was working at our firehouse when my mother called and said there was smoke in our house and my family was evacuating. I immediately left the station and headed home.
As I pulled into the driveway, I saw all the windows open on a hot and humid day. My first thought was simply, Is my family okay? I was incredibly relieved to see my wife, Deb, and our family outside and safe.
Inside, there was no active fire, but there was a slight haze and the smell of burning plastic coming from the kitchen. Our investigation eventually found a faulty electrical connection in a kitchen light.
While the incident turned out to be minor, it was anything but minor to us. Our adult autistic daughter was frightened; Deb was focused on comforting her. The experience also reminded us that we need to practice more fire drills at home as part of her life-skills training.
As the first officer on scene, I downgraded the response to the Putnam Fire Department. Then something happened that I will never forget.
I watched our firefighters arrive—rookies, veterans, and even retired members—all coming to help.
After 39 years with the Putnam Fire Department, I've seen our fire service family come together countless times for others. But watching them come together for my family was different.
It was deeply personal.
I wasn't just watching firefighters arrive. I was watching my brothers and sisters come to help the people I love most.
To every Putnam firefighter who responded, and to the mutual-aid departments that were on their way, thank you.
Thank you to the rookies who answered the call, the veterans who continue to serve, and the retired members who still felt the need to come and help. Your dedication, professionalism, and willingness to volunteer your time are what make the fire service so special.
At a time when volunteerism is declining across our nation, I hope you all know how much your service means—not only to our community, but to the families of the people you serve.
This incident hit very close to home and reminded me just how fortunate I am to be part of this fire service family.
From the entire Lefebvre family:
Thank you for being there when the call came home. We are truly grateful for each and every one of you.
With heartfelt appreciation and brotherhood,
Scott Lefebvre
Assistant Chief
Putnam Fire Department
