Norwich Firefighters Local 892

09/04/2026

Norwich Firefighters are proud to once again be part of this longstanding tradition with Norwich Public Schools, helping make the first day of school a little more memorable for some of Norwich’s students.

We would also like to thank everyone who participated and assisted with this year’s tradition, including members of the East Great Plain Volunteer Fire Company, Occum Fire Department, and Laurel Hill Volunteer Fire Co. #6.

Local 892 wishes all Norwich Public Schools students, families, and staff a safe and successful school year!

https://www.wtnh.com/video/norwich-kindergarteners-ride-fire-trucks-on-first-day-of-school-in-longstanding-tradition/12134434

While most kids in Norwich got on a yellow bus for the first day of school, a handful of kindergarteners got to school in a big red truck instead!

08/29/2026

If you’re considering donating please follow this link to book your appointment. Thank you to everyone who has already signed up.

https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?zipSponsor=NorwichCT

American Red Cross Blood Donors ❤️

08/12/2026

At 5 pm on Tuesday, 8/11/26 Norwich’s Engine 2 with American Ambulance and the Norwich Police were dispatched to a car versus skateboarder at the intersection of Fourth Street and Page Street. While responding, dispatch said they were taking calls reporting the child was trapped under the vehicle, so Squad A and Engine 3 were added.

Engine 2 arrived at 5:03 with a juvenile trapped under the van. They immediately began patient care and stabilization. Once the vehicle was stabilized they used an E-draulic tool to lift the vehicle off the patient. The patient was extricated at 5:07 and loaded for transport. Engine 2 Step rode in with the paramedic to assist with patient care.

08/12/2026

Today, the Norwich Fire Department hosted the Greater Norwich Area Chamber of Commerce - Norwich, CT - 2026-27 Leadership Development Program. This program aims to explore and enhance existing leadership skills and help emerging leaders gain a better understanding of themselves and their role in the community.

Today’s focus was on risk and resiliency, with inspiring speakers sharing their leadership journeys and insights. Participants also got an exclusive look into our daily operations.

Thank you to all participants for your time and dedication — we wish you continued success in your professional journeys!

Special thank you to retired Norwich Firefighter Tom LaFreniere for gracing us with his presence.

08/10/2026

We’ve teamed up with the the Capano Family, the Harp & Dragon and American Red Cross to sponsor three opportunities to donate blood in our community. The Capano Family is graciously donating a $25 gift card to the Harp & Dragon to every donor. Give blood - Give life!

American Red Cross Blood Donors ❤️

08/07/2026

At 4:31 pm on Friday, 8/7/26 Engine 3, Battalion 1, Occum Engine 42, American Ambulance and the Norwich Police were dispatched to a 2 car accident with fire in front of the Ponemah Mill. Engine 3 arrived at 4:34 and stretched the front bumper line.

The crew knocked the fire and evaluated both drivers. Engine 42 secured the other vehicle and cleaned up the debris. Battalion 1 had command and American Ambulance obtained 2 patient refusals.

Video Credit: John Bilda

08/05/2026

Yesterday at Norwich Fire Department and Emergency Management headquarters, a badge pinning ceremony was held for our newly promoted Lieutenants and newly appointed fire inspector.

Becoming a Lieutenant is about much more than simply wearing a different color shirt. It takes years of experience, dedication, leadership, and a commitment to becoming the best firefighter and officer you can be.

Our promotional process is rigorous: a written examination based on over 2000 pages of reading, an oral panel interview in front of experienced fire officers from around the state, and ultimately an interview with the Chief. Candidates have to prepare, compete, and demonstrate that they have the knowledge, judgment, leadership ability, and experience necessary to take on the responsibility of leading a crew and ensuring their safety at all times.

In our department, leadership isn't something you're voted into - it's something you have to earn.

We also congratulate our newly appointed Fire Inspector and welcome them to the department. We look forward to the experience and perspective they will bring to the role.

Congratulations to everyone who was recognized yesterday, and best of luck in your new positions.

Members recognized:
Lieutenant Dennis Blanchard - Engine 3
Lieutenant Brian Fee - Truck 1
Lieutenant Joe Muscarella - Engine 3
Fire Inspector Josh Gilot - Fire Marshal's Office

08/02/2026

Local 892 would like to congratulate the following members on their anniversaries with the City of Norwich Fire Department during the months of July and August:

Battalion Chief Marc Benjamin - 27 Years

Firefighter Michael Stadnicki - 24 Years

Lieutenant Stephen Fricke - 23 Years
Firefighter Joseph Donahoe - 23 Years

Battalion Chief Patrick Curtin - 22 Years
Firefighter Scott Beaudry - 22 Years
Firefighter David Rose - 22 Years

Lieutenant Dennis Blanchard - 20 Years

Captain Michael Podzaline - 17 Years
Lieutenant Adam Griffin - 17 Years
Firefighter Jay Wetherell - 17 Years
Firefighter Michael Christoff - 17 Years

Lieutenant Christopher Paige - 16 Years
Lieutenant Brian Fee - 16 Years
Firefighter William Krukoff - 16 Years

Firefighter Brendan Johnson - 14 Years
Firefighter James Justice - 14 Years

Firefighter Paul Tardif - 11 Years

Assistant Chief Mark Gilot - 10 Years

Firefighter Kafi Davis - 8 Years

Firefighter Zachary Topping - 7 Years

Firefighter Ryan Mocek - 4 Years
Firefighter Jensen Martin - 4 Years

Firefighter Maximillian Kuczorski - 2 Years
Firefighter Jacob Fabry - 2 Years
Firefighter Griffin Bellavance - 2 Years

Firefighter Ryan Douchette - 1 Year

07/29/2026

Local 892 would like to recognize and congratulate three members on their recent promotions to the rank of Lieutenant.

Lieutenant Dennis Blanchard is a 20 year veteran of the department and was previously assigned as a firefighter on Platoon 3 and Platoon 4. Lieutenant Blanchard has been assigned as the company officer of Engine 3 on Platoon 3.

Lieutenant Brian Fee is a 16 year veteran of the department and was previously assigned as a firefighter on Platoon 2 and Platoon 3. Lieutenant Fee has been assigned as the company officer of Truck 1 on Platoon 2.

Lieutenant Joseph Muscarella is an 8 year veteran of the department and was previously assigned as a firefighter on Platoon 2. Lieutenant Muscarella has been assigned as the company officer of Engine 3 on Platoon 1.

We would also like welcome Josh Gilot to the department as our newest Deputy Fire Marshal, filling a vacancy created by a recent retirement.

A badge pinning ceremony will be held on Tuesday, August 4 at 3:00 pm at Fire Headquarters for all four members.

07/24/2026

Norwich Fire Fighters Local 892 is proud to support the students and families of Norwich by donating 120 backpacks filled with school supplies as part of the Norwich Public Schools Back to School Bash.

As firefighters, we have the privilege of serving this community every day. Supporting our students before they walk through the classroom doors is another way we can invest in the future of Norwich. We hope these backpacks help ease the financial burden on families and give students the tools they need to begin the school year ready to learn and succeed.

Thank you to Norwich Public Schools, the Norwich Public Schools Central Office staff, and State Representative Derell Wilson for organizing this outstanding community effort and bringing local organizations together to support our youth.

We are honored to stand alongside so many dedicated community partners committed to making a difference.