USA > Massachusetts > Middlesex County > Arlington > Town of Arlington annual report 1961 > Part 20
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Report of the Purchasing Department
January 18, 1962
Mr. Edward C. Monahan Town Manager Town Hall Arlington 74, Massachusetts
Dear Mr. Monahan:
I herewith submit my report as Assistant Purchasing Agent for the year ending December 31, 1961.
During the year 1961, the effect of the Federal Government's restric- tions on the import of Residual Fuel made itself evident on the New England Economy. The effect on the Town of Arlington's purchasing of heavy fuel was that the discounts quoted by suppliers decreased by about one-hundred and fifty per cent. In 1960, the discount on #5 Fuel Oil was twenty-nine cents per barrel -- in 1961, the discount decreased to eleven cents per barrel. The net result was an increase in cost of heavy Fuel Oil of over two-thousand dollars for the year. Fortunately, the outlook for 1962 is brighter as the Federal Government is reviewing the import restrictions and gives every evidence of lessening restrictions.
The discount price on Gasoline purchased by the Town of Arlington on the other hand increased from .0469 a gallon in 1960 to .052 for the year 1961. With an annual consumption of 160,000 gallons, this produces a savings of approximately $816.00 per year on the purchase of gasoline. This dis- count was the highest obtained by any city or town in the Commonwealth during the last fiscal year. In addition to the increase in the discount for gasoline, the successful vendor agreed to provide the New Public Works Yard with two - 4,000 gallon tanks and two pumps at no cost to the Town to store and dispense the gasoline supplied.
Copper tubing prices declined in 1961 to the lowest level in years due to extreme competition in the copper tubing industry. The price for 3/4" type K copper tubing went down to twenty-nine cents a foot about ten cents a foot less than the previous year. This resulted in savings of approximately $1,000.00 on the purchase of copper tubing for the year.
The continuing responsibility of the Purchasing Department is clearly to obtain competition for goods, materials, supplies, and services pur- chased by the Town so that we may be able to purchase our requirements at the lowest prices possible in a competitive market.
Whenever possible, purchases are combined so that formal bids are requested from prospective bidders. In addition, the spirit of competition is carried over into our day to day operations, and telephone quotations are received from at least three bidders whenever possible and practical.
Specifications for formal bids are carefully prepared so that pro- spective bidders have available all information necessary to prepare an intelligent and competitive bid. All bids are carefully analyzed prior to their award. Thorough investigation is made of the physical and financial responsibility of bidders unfamiliar to the Town of Arlington so that we may determine their competency to provide the material or services bid
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ARLINGTON TOWN REPORT
upon. Where deemed necessary, insurance certificates and performance bonds are obtained. This provision protects the Town of Arlington against loss from suits or the deficiencies of inadequate performance.
Term Contracts are obtained on items such as Fuel Oil, Tires, Gaso- line, Oil, Grease, Diesel Fuel, Storage Batteries, Incandescent and Fluor- escent Lamps, Coal, etc. and in this manner considerable savings are realized by combining the needs of all town departments over a period of time.
I wish to take this opportunity to express my sincere appreciation to the Town Manager, Board of Selectmen, various Boards, Commissions, Trustees, Town Officials, Committees, Department Heads, and my staff for their cooperation throughout the year.
Respectfully submitted,
James L. Sullivan Assistant Purchasing Agent
209
REPORT OF THE FIRE DEPARTMENT
Annual Report of the Fire Department
January 1, 1962
Mr. Edward C. Monahan Town Manager Arlington, Massachusetts
Dear Sir:
I submit my Seventh Annual Report as Chief of the Arlington Fire Department for the year ending December 31, 1961.
PERSONNEL
The uniformed force consists of 99 men: the Chief of Department, 5 Deputy Chiefs, 7 Captains, 19 Lieutenants, and 67 Fire Fighters. The De- partment has a Master Mechanic, Doward L. Barter; a Physician, Dr. Ed- ward W. Feeley, and a Clerk, Anna B. Hurley.
RETIREMENT
Deputy Chief Lorne S. McEwen in the Department since 1924 retired on disability pesion, April 19. Through the years he gave his untiring efforts to the Fire Service. Deputy McEwen was a sincere and loyal member of the Arlington Fire Department. He leaves with the best wishes of his associates.
PROMOTIONS
The following were advanced in rank, April 30, 1961:
John E. Canniff from Captain to Deputy Chief; replacement for Deputy McEwen;
Robert C. Blomquist, from Lieutenant to Captain; replacement for Captain Canniff;
Eugene Del Gaizo, from Fire Fighter to Lieutenant; filling vacany caused by advancement of Lieutenant Blomquist.
APPOINTMENT
July 9, 1961, Joseph J. Shea, 106 Sunnyside Avenue, was appointed per- manent Fire Fighter; replacement for Eugene Del Gaizo.
DEPARTMENT CHAPLAINS
Reverend Father Charles A. McCarthy, curate at St. James Church; and Reverend William W. Lewis of the First Unitarian Church, serve as Department Chaplains.
APPARATUS AT HEADQUARTERS
Engine 1 (1954-Mack), 1000-gallon pumping unit
Engine 4 (1954-Mack), 1000-gallon pumping unit
Ladder 1 (1961-Mack Tractor attached to 1937 Seagrave Trailer) 85- foot aerial ladder truck
Rescue 1 (1958-Mack), equipped for emergency calls and floodlighting operations
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ARLINGTON TOWN REPORT
Life Boat (1952) 14-foot metal boat with outboard motor and life-saving equipment
Chief's Car (1961-Pontiac) Deputy's Car (1959-Ford) Fire Prevention Car (1956-Ford) Utility Pick-up Truck (1952-Chevrolet), 3/4-ton capacity
APPARATUS AT HIGHLAND STATION
Engine 2 (1952-Seagrave), 1000-gallon pumping unit
Ladder 2 (1952-Seagrave), Non-tractor-drawn 65-foot aerial ladder truck Heavy-duty Maintenance Truck (rebuilt 1945 Mack chassis) carries 5000-watt Generator Unit supplying power for six flood- lights.
APPARATUS AT PARK CIRCLE STATION
Aerial Ladder 3 (1949-Seagrave), a Quintuplet Unit comprising 750- gallon centrifugal pumper, non-tractor drawn 65-foot aerial ladder, booster pump with attachment, carrier for 1000 feet of 2-1/2 inch hose and 500 feet of 1-1/2 inch hose, and a complement of ground ladders.
Two 500-gallon Auxiliary Fire Pumps (1941-Buffalo) numbered Engine 15 and Engine 16.
IN ACTIVE RESERVE
Engine 5 (1929-Seagrave), a 750-gallon pumper, is ready to replace disabled pumping units for a limited time only due to its age.
RESPONSE
The Department responded to 1065 calls of which 352 were Box Alarms, 633 Still Alarms and 80 Mutual Aid (out-of-town) calls; of the 718 telephone calls received, 120 were Box Alarms and 598 were Still Alarms.
In 1960 there was a total of 1250 calls.
A summary of alarms revealed that the greatest number of such calls occurred in the month of April; that more occurred on Friday than any other day of the week, and also that of these calls, the largest number were be- tween the hours of 10:00 A.M. and 11:00 A.M .; and between 4:00 P.M. and 5:00 P.M.
One hundred and twenty-eight false alarms were sounded as compared with 87 in 1960.
The Rescue Unit responded to 94 First Aid Emergency Calls where the Resuscitator and Inhalator were requested for administration of oxygen. The rescue equipment on this unit was used on several occasions to release persons trapped when involved in automobile accidents; also on calls to homes where accidents occurred through the misuse and faulty operation of home appliances.
Received 9 calls for use of Department Life Boat.
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REPORT OF THE FIRE DEPARTMENT
CAUSES OF ALARMS IN 1961
Accidents
16
Lightning
1
Airplane .
1
Locked Out .
110
Automobiles
69
Malicious Mischief. 1
Careless Smoking.
39
Miscellaneous
38
Children and Matches
18
Needless
29
Chimneys
4
Oil Burners
34
Dump .
14
Oil Tank Leaks
13
False Alarms
128
Out-Of-Town.
80
First Aid
94
Refrigerators
4
Gas Leaks
4
Rubbish
37
Gasoline
9
Spontaneous Ignition
2
Grass
178
Sprinkler Systems
9
Grease .
13
Televisions.
6
Heaters
16
Water Leaks .
25
Incinerators
7
Wiring (Inside)
41
Investigating
9
Wiring (Outside)
16
GENERAL SUMMARY OF EQUIPMENT USED AT FIRES
Ladders Raised
2250 feet
Hose Used. .
35000 feet
Water from Booster Tanks.
26000 gallons
Pumping Operations
300 for 47 hours
Miles Travelled .
4770 miles
Service Time.
2750 hours
MULTIPLE ALARM
February 5, 1961, 2nd alarm sounded on Box 15 at 8:28 A.M. for house fire at 24 Cleveland Street with resulting loss of $15,722.
FATALITY
April 9, 1961, Joseph A. Shea, age 9, of 44 Sunnyside Avenue, died from burns received in automobile fire.
AIRPLANE CRASH
July 24, 1961, a Cessna two-seat plane, en route from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Beverly, landed without casualties in the yard of 50 Hut- chinson Road.
SNOW STORMS
On January 20th and February 4th heavy snow storms occurred which necessitated that the Fire Department maintain additional manpower on duty for emergency calls since the snow assumed drifting proportions with the intense strong winds causing dangerous traveling conditions.
HURRICANE ESTHER
September 21, 1961, Hurricane Esther threatened and the Fire Depart- ment was placed on stand-by alert. Extensive plans and preparations were made to use if necessary all emergency equipment such as portable pumps, portable generators, lights and cable.
Rain and strong high winds felled utility wires throughout the town. Many cellars were flooded and the fire department was deluged with requests for assistance to remove water from flooded cellars. During the year, also after other minor storms, the department received numerous calls to re- move and pump water from flooded cellars.
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ARLINGTON TOWN REPORT
FIRE LOSSES
Seventy-seven lossess occurred, 12 of which accounted for $58,173 of the entire yearly loss.
The total assessed value of property endangered, insurance thereon, loss sustained, and the amount of insurance paid are as follows:
Assessed Value
Insurance
Damage and Insurance Paid
Buildings
$1,106,150
$1,766,900
$47,135
Contents
310,580
310,580
29,102
Total
$1,416,730
$2,077,480
$76,237
APPROPRIATION
1961 Appropriation .
$616,139
Expended
615,598
Balance
$
541
CREDITS
Fees for 37 permits to Blast
$18.50
Fees for 4 permits for Flammable Fluids
2.00
Fees for 13 permits for use of Tar Kettle
6.50
Sale of Junk.
20.24
$47.24
REPORT OF DEPARTMENT PHYSICIAN
Dr. Edward W. Feeley, Department Physician, rendered the following services in 1961: Office Calls 60, Station Calls 1, Hospital Calls 1, Treated at Fires 5. In addition, Dr. Feeley responded to many emergency calls and alarms of fire. Several conferences were held with the Chief of Department on medical matters pertaining to members of the Department.
FIRE PREVENTION
Fire Fighters periodically inspected places of business, public build- ings, schools, hospitals, convalescent homes and places of public assembly. A record was made of existing conditions with date when corrections were made.
Recharged 394 fire extinguishers in these buildings. For the second year, conducted the "In-Service" Plan of recharging these extinguishers in public buildings whereby fire apparatus with Fire Fighters responded to each building and instructed occupants in the operation and actual use of a fire extinguisher in case of fire.
For the sixth year, in October, at the request of the Catholic Archbishop of Boston, the Fire Department inspected all Catholic Churches, convents, schools and other church property in Arlington and noted conditions found. These reports with recommendations were forwarded to the Chancellery.
During 1961, Lieutenant Daniel J. Mahoney, Inspector of Oil Burning Installations and Flammables, inspected a total of 350 oil burners and other flammable installations and storage equipment. Two hundred and thirty-six permits were issued for approved installations after inspection. It was
213
REPORT OF THE FIRE DEPARTMENT
necessary to reinspect 114 installations because of faulty equipment and failure of installers to meet all rules and regulations pertaining to oil burners and storage of flammables. In addition, extensive and prolonged investigations were conducted for the removal of petroleum products from underground storage.
FIRE PREVENTION WEEK
The week of October 8-14 was observed as Fire Prevention Week. Fire Department Officers distributed timely and conspicuous posters marking the occasion. These were placed in public buildings and places of business throughout the Town. Practical Fire Prevention pamphlets and booklets for children were passed out to schools with permission of Dr. Bert A. Roens, Superintendent of Schools. The pamphlets were interesting and favorably received by the children.
In conjunction with Fire Prevention Week activites the Public Works Department cooperated in removing accumulated rubbish set out at curbings for collection by occupants.
DWELLING INSPECTIONS
For the fifth year, conducted "In-Service Inspection" of dwellings where- by approximately 11,000 homes were inspected by Fire Fighters with ap- paratus. Continuous contact with Fire Department Headquarters was main- tained through the medium of two-way radio. Many weeks were required for the inspection of dwellings - a most vital phase of fire prevention for reducing hazards in the home.
In conjunction with dwelling inspections, the "Clean-up, Fix-up, Paint- up" Program for 1961 began on April 17th and continued through May 24th. Such a home inspection campaign makes fire prevention realistic to all. It presents an opportunity whereby Fire Fighters reveal existing fire hazards suggesting ways for their elimination. Emphasis is placed on the importance of practicing fire safety in the home and stressing the need for constant vigilance.
During the "Clean-up" period, the Public Works Department fully co- operated in the removal of rubbish and debris which was placed on the side- walks for pick-up - an opportunity afforded twice a year, during the spring and fall months. Lieutenant Harold C. O' Leary directed this program for the third year.
FIRE DRILLS IN SCHOOLS
The Annual Fire Drill for the evacuation of children from school build- ings under the supervision of Officers of the Arlington Fire Department was conducted in public, parochial and private schools.
A record was made of the number of classrooms, pupils, exists used and the time required to evacuate each building; a copy of which was sent to the School Department.
For the seventh year, the "In-Service" method was utilized whereby Fire Fighters with apparatus went to the schools for the holding of fire drills and at the same time through means of two-way radio remained in service for fire duty in the event of alarm of fire. Complying with Massa- chusetts General Laws, Chapter 148, four such drills are given during the school year by the Fire Department.
214
ARLINGTON TOWN REPORT
FIRE DRILLS IN NURSING HOMES
In accordance with provisions of Chapter 333, Massachusetts General Laws, the Deputy Chiefs made periodic inspections of Symmes Hospital and the nine Nursing Homes in Arlington and the required fire drill was held. Reports were forwarded to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.
HYDRANT INSPECTIONS
For the seventh year, Fire Fighters continued the semi-annual "In- Service" inspection of approximately 1300 hydrants in Arlington under the direction of Lieutenant Harold C. O'Leary.
During summer months, water flow tests of each hydrant were made daily after 10:00 P.M. Records were kept of static and residual pressures. Faulty and defective hydrants were reported to the Water Department for repairs.
The winter inspection for frozen and defective hydrants started Decem- ber 13th. Tests were made during the daytime. If water was found in barrel of hydrant it was pumped out by testing crew of Fire Fighters. Hydrants found frozen were thawed immediately by the Fire Department and the Water Department was notified.
TRAINING OF FIRE FIGHTERS
Fire Fighters participated in frequent drills in their stations and were instructed in the proper methods and use of Fire Department Equipment. Routine drills were held in pumping, drafting and life boat practice on Spy Pond and at the Heights Reservoir. Under the direction of the Department Mechanic, Doward L. Barter, and Company Officers, conducted driver- training program, and Fire Fighters received instruction in the mechanical operation of fire apparatus, ladder trucks and aerial ladders.
On invitation, Arlington Fire Officers attended classes at the Boston Fire Department Training Academy, Moon Island; and also at Hanscom Air Base, U.S.A.F., Bedford, Massachusetts.
AUXILIARY FIRE FIGHTERS
October 8, 1961, Malcolm Griffin, 25 Addison Street, resigned as Auxi- liary Fire Chief because of health. During his regime, many innovations went into effect. Chief Griffin always had an avid interest in the progress of the fire service.
The Auxiliary Department composed of men from all walks of life is a dedicated and devoted group. They give valuable time to assist the regular Fire Department during fires and emergencies. These men render stand- by assistance by reporting at the stations daily from 7:00 P.M. to 10:00 P.M. on rotating shifts. Much praise is due our Auxiliary Fire Fighters.
Deputy Chief Irving L. Proctor is the Fire Department Coordinator for this group under the direction of Civil Defense.
September 26th, the Director of Civil Defense, John P. Dempsey, lec- tured to all Fire Fighters on nuclear radiation and fallout.
DETAILS
Since 1949, Fire Fighters at Park Circle Station have been assigned during school hours for traffic duty in that section to protect school chil- dren.
215
REPORT OF THE FIRE DEPARTMENT
Fire Fighters were detailed to stand-by duty as precautionary measure to guard against fire during welding operations or when blow torches were being used for repairs in school or public buildings.
April 19th, Rescue Unit participated in Patriots' Day Parade.
April 19th, Engine 1 detailed to Patriots' Day Parade in Lexington.
May 6th, Engine 1 with crew took part in "Little League Baseball" Parade.
October 8th, Engine 1 assigned to Boston Fire Department Parade for Fire Prevention Week.
During the year, the Highland Fire Station was used for registration of voters and voting purposes for the Town of Arlington. The Park Circle Station also was used for registering of voters besides being the meeting place for many civic groups.
BUILDING MAINTENANCE
At Headquarters, the contractor continued work of repointing and re- placing flashing on brick tower. Two sides of tower remain to be repointed. This work is undertaken gradually and annually because of the great ex- pense involved. With completion of work on tower, all brick construction on upper section of building will have been repointed - A program in progress since 1956.
At Highland Station, repainted and redecorated the interior of building; constructed lockers on apparatus floor for service clothing.
At Park Circle Station, new heavy duty combination storm doors re- placed old doors.
Fire Fighters at the three fire stations deserve praise for their work and efforts in maintaining so well these buildings, a task resulting in great financial saving to the Town.
APPARATUS MAINTENANCE
The following major repairs on fire apparatus were undertaken by the Department Master Mechanic at a considerable saving in labor costs:
Ladder 1 - Mack 1961 Tractor was attached to Seagrave 1937 Trailer, 85- foot aerial ladder truck after being completely overhauled in department repair shop; in commission September 7, 1961.
Installed "Preconnected Hose Lines" on:
Engine 1 - Supplies four 1-1/2 inch hose lines and three 2-1/2 inch lines
Engine 2 - Supplies six 1-1/2 inch hose lines and three 2-1/2 inch lines
Engine 4 - Supplies four 1-1/2 inch hose lines and three 2-1/2 inch lines
Preconnected hose lines on pumping engines permit operation at fires with higher degree of efficiency, particularly the extinguishing of fires in- side buildings. Water is obtained faster from 1-1/2 inch hose and hose is easier to handle; further there is a reduction in the amount of water damage.
The Department Mchanic also rearranged the construction of apparatus bodies to provide for the storing of "Foam" chemical with the necessary
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ARLINGTON TOWN REPORT
modern appliances for the extinguishing of petroleum fires either in tank trucks on the road or in buildings. Rescue Unit is carrying foam in addition to its regular equipment.
1961 SURVEY
January 31, 1961, the New England Fire Insurance Rating Association conducted a survey of the Town of Arlington relative to its fire defenses and physical condition covering the Fire Department, Water Department, Fire Alarm Signal System and other phases necessary for fire fighting and protection.
RECOMMENDATIONS
For the year 1962 recommend that $595,921 be appropriated to include the replacement of Deputy Chief's car.
CONCLUSION
I am sincerely grateful to the Honorable Board of Selectmen, and to Town Manager, Edward C. Monahan, for active interest in the affairs of the Fire Department. To all Town Departments for their cooperation, my thanks.
To my own Officers and Men for loyal and devoted performance of duty, my deep appreciation.
Respectfully submitted,
Thomas H. Egan Chief of Fire Department
217
REPORT OF THE FIRE AND POLICE SIGNAL SYSTEM
Report of the Fire and Police Signal System
January 1, 1962
Mr. Edward C. Monahan Town Manager Arlington, Massachusetts
Dear Sir:
As Superintendent of the Fire and Police Signal System, I submit my Seventh Annual Report for the year ending December 31, 1961.
The System is maintained by Assistant Superintendent Lester W. Cam- eron, together with Signal Maintainers, Nicholas J. Bucciero, and Frederick J. Manning.
FIRE ALARM AND POLICE SIGNALS
Many difficulties were experienced as the result of temporary break- down in aerial and underground lines. Storms, high winds, rain, snow and lightning inflicted severe damage and circuits were grounded. September 21st, Hurricane Esther, with trees blowing against lines caused brief inter- ruption of service. When found out of order, circuits were restored to im- mediate service.
Made routine repairs, wound and tested fire alarm boxes and police signal boxes. Checked police signal desk, signal registers, air whistles and master clocks. Painted 302 fire boxes and 80 police signal boxes throughout the Town. Installed decal "Fire" on fire pedestals. Conducted water-flow tests on signal boxes connected to sprinkler systems.
The following signal boxes (combination type) were damaged when struck by automobiles:
Police Box 215 and Fire Box 35 - Mystic Street-Chestnut Street Police Box 21 and Fire Box 315 - Medford Street-Parallel Street Police Box 412 and Fire Box 82-Massachusetts Avenue- Park Avenue
Installing new Police Signal Boxes:
Box 232 Ridge Street-Sleepy Hollow Lane
Box 363 Ridge Street-Mohawk Road
Installing new Fire Alarm Boxes:
Box 3521 New England Packing Company, 30 Water Street 3553 Pamela Drive
3913 Ridge Street-Sleepy Hollow Lane
3973 Ridge Street-Mohawk Road
71 62 Winchester Road-Stone Road
7183 Stratton School-180 Mountain Avenue
755 Bow Street-Newland Road
7712 Nourse Road-Lowell Street
8242 Linden Street-Florence Terrace
8653 St. Camillus Church (new) - 1183 Concord Turnpike
8654 Florence Avenue-Charlton Street
8655 Hathaway Circle - Opposite No. 59
8664 Hathaway Circle - Oakland Avenue
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ARLINGTON TOWN REPORT
Changing doors on the following fire alarm boxes from out-moded type to quick-action style door:
Boxes: 131-132-1331-136-155-173-174 266-282-358 461-481-482-486-489-621 713-73-731-842-86-8661
Inspected and checked fire alarm signalling systems in public and paro- chial schools in Arlington prior to the opening of school in September.
CABLE CONSTRUCTION
Replaced, reran and pulled up 2-conductor aerial cable on the following streets, removing old cross-arms:
Wollaston Avenue
Prescott Street
Washington Street
Russell Street
Edmund Road
Winslow Street
Gray Street
Water Street
Highland Avenue
Mountain Avenue
Lockeland Avenue
Overlook Road
Kenilworth Road
Pleasant Street
Concord Turnpike
Lombard Road
Lake Street
Eastern Avenue
Bailey Road
Arlmont Street
Massachusetts Avenue
Replaced, reran and pulled up 6-conductor aerial cable at following locations:
Highland Avenue from Massachusetts Avenue to Eastern Avenue; Gray Street- Pine Ridge Road to Quincy Street;
Silk Street from Gardner Street to River Street-Yale Road; Summer Street from Park Avenue Extension to Summit Street.
Pulled in 6-conductor underground cable replacing old cable, cutting over to signal boxes, and rebuilding terminal boxes at:
Broadway-Everett Street Hutchinson Road
Mountain Avenue Wollaston Avenue
Repaired and replaced 3-inch conduit on Park Avenue-Paul Revere Road when M.D.C. construction was under way.
Made transfers of lines to new poles, rebuilding lines and pulling up slack on aerial lines.
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