Winsted Fire Department

06/23/2026

06/22/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Winsted and Wi******er Fire Departments Receive Grant to Enhance Firefighter Accountability and Safety

WINSTED, CT — The Winsted Fire Department and Wi******er Fire Department are pleased to announce the receipt of a grant from InFirst Responders Foundation that has funded the purchase of new firefighter accountability tags and associated accountability system accessories.

The grant-funded equipment will significantly enhance on-scene accountability during emergency operations, helping incident commanders track the location, assignment, and status of personnel operating at incidents. Effective accountability systems are a critical component of firefighter safety and are essential for ensuring that all personnel can be quickly identified and accounted for during emergency incidents.

The new accountability tags will be utilized by members of both departments and will support compliance with nationally recognized firefighter safety standards and best practices. The system will improve operational awareness and strengthen the departments' ability to monitor personnel operating in hazardous environments.

"We are extremely grateful to InFirst Responders Foundation for their support of firefighter safety," said Fire Chief John Field. "This funding will allow us to implement enhanced accountability measures that directly contribute to the safety and well-being of our firefighters. Knowing where our personnel are operating and being able to quickly account for them during an emergency is one of the most important responsibilities of incident command."

The Winsted and Wi******er Fire Departments respond to hundreds of emergency incidents annually and remain committed to providing the highest level of service to the community while ensuring the safety of the firefighters who serve.

The departments extend their sincere appreciation to InFirst Responders Foundation for investing in public safety and supporting the first responders who protect the residents, businesses, and visitors of the Town of Wi******er.

For additional information, please contact:

Chief John Field

Winsted Fire Department

338 Main Street

Winsted, CT 06098

860-379-2718

06/16/2026

Monday was a busy day for the members of the Winsted Fire Department, demonstrating once again the commitment it takes to serve our community.

The day began with a response to a medical emergency, followed later in the evening by pump operator and drafting training at Highland Lake. At the same time, several members attended the Fire Chiefs Expo at the Litchfield County Regional Fire School, continuing their education and bringing valuable knowledge back to our department.

After returning from the expo and joining the crew at Highland Lake, training was interrupted when members were dispatched to a motor vehicle accident involving a rollover ATV. Crews responded, assisted at the scene, and worked alongside our public safety partners to ensure the situation was handled safely.

Once the incident was cleared, members returned to Highland Lake and resumed their drafting operations training.

This is what dedication looks like. Whether responding to emergencies, attending professional development opportunities, or sharpening critical skills through hands-on training, our members continually balance multiple responsibilities while remaining ready to answer the call whenever the community needs us.

We are proud of the commitment, professionalism, and service demonstrated by our members every day.

06/13/2026

Yesterday afternoon, members responded to an activated fire alarm at a local residence. Upon arrival, crews determined the cause to be burnt food on the stove. Firefighters ventilated the home using a ventilation fan to remove smoke and odors before returning the residence to the occupants.

While the incident was minor, the conditions were anything but. With temperatures soaring above 90 degrees and high humidity throughout the day, members were reminded just how warm firefighting gear can be during the summer months.

The call came immediately following a traffic detail for a local funeral service, making for a busy afternoon of community service in more ways than one.

We are grateful that this incident was quickly resolved and would like to remind everyone to stay attentive while cooking and to check that smoke alarms are working properly throughout your home.

As always, thank you to our members for their dedication and service, no matter the weather.

06/10/2026

06/08/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Winsted Fire Department Assists at Significant Commercial Structure Fire in Barkhamsted

WINSTED, CT – On June 8th 04:16 am the Winsted Fire Department responded on mutual aid to a commercial structure fire at 4 Old North Road in Barkhamsted following an initial dispatch for a commercial fire alarm activation.

While units were en route, the incident was upgraded to a working structure fire. Winsted Truck 11 and Engine 2 arrived on scene simultaneously with the first-arriving Barkhamsted fire apparatus and encountered heavy smoke conditions from the building.

Truck 11 was assigned to perform vertical ventilation operations while Engine 2 established water supply support and later assisted with fire suppression efforts from the rear of the structure. Winsted personnel worked alongside firefighters from Barkhamsted and other mutual aid departments to contain the fire and prevent further extension.

Throughout the incident, Winsted firefighters assisted with fire attack, ventilation, and extensive overhaul operations. Truck 11 crews successfully completed multiple ventilation openings in the roof to improve interior conditions and support suppression efforts.

One firefighter sustained a minor injury after falling from a loading dock during operations. The firefighter was evaluated and the injury was not considered serious.

The incident required several hours of coordinated firefighting efforts before crews were released by command. All Winsted units returned to service following completion of operations.

The Winsted Fire Department would like to recognize the professionalism and teamwork displayed by all responding agencies. Incidents of this magnitude highlight the importance of the strong mutual aid partnerships that exist among area fire departments and ensure that communities receive the resources needed during emergencies.

For additional information, please contact the Winsted Fire Department.

***

06/01/2026

🎉 Happy Birthday to Our June Birthdays! 🎉

As we kick off the summer season, we'd like to take a moment to recognize and celebrate the members of our department who are celebrating birthdays this month!

Please join us in wishing a very happy birthday to:

Will Grouten
Lieutenant Chris Heche
Todd Hiller
Captain Dan Matthews

Thank you for your dedication, service, and commitment to our community. Whether you're responding to emergencies, training, supporting department events, or lending a helping hand wherever needed, you make a difference every day.

We hope your birthday brings plenty of time with family and friends, good health, laughter, and a chance to enjoy all that summer has to offer.

From all of us at the Winsted Fire Department, happy birthday and best wishes for a fantastic year ahead! 🎂🎈🎁