Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) announced that Fire Engine 1508 is due to return tonight (September 15), after a two week firefighting assignment on the 100,000 + acre Ferguson Fire, in central California.  The crew of three spent the assignment stationed in Yosemite National Park. They will be arriving at the DEEP Eastern District Headquarters, 209 Hebron Road, Marlborough, at approximately 9:30 p.m. 

Richard Schenk - Hampton
Anthony Flamio - Farmington
Corey Pelletier - Griswold

This is the first engine Connecticut has sent out this year.

DEEP maintains a roster of agency staff members and personnel from local fire departments who have been certified to fight forest or wildfires.  Crew members must complete a rigorous training program and participate in an annual renewal course.

Connecticut maintains this firefighting capability to participate in a reciprocal aid program operated by the U.S. Forest Service.  Under this program, trained personnel from other parts of the nation are available to assist Connecticut in the event of a fire emergency or other natural disaster in return for the support of Connecticut personnel when needed.