Pittsfield Fire Department I.A.F.F 2647

06/05/2026

This past Tuesday, June 2 2026, four members of the Pittsfield Fire Department graduated the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy- Career Recruit program.

This 10 week program tested them in many ways, both mentally and physically, and we now welcome them back to their normal shifts.

If you see them around be sure to say hello and congratulations!

Congratulations to all four of you and to the entire class of S45!

Pictured left to right:

Training Captain Arnhold
Probationary Firefighter Nolan Jankowski
Probationary Firefighter Justin Nackoul
Chief Sammons
Probationary Firefighter Brent Chylinski
Probationary Firefighter Myles Candelet

06/02/2026

Yesterday, members of the Pittsfield Fire Honor Guard along with 20 other department members represented our City in a contingent to honor the fallen Boston Firefighter Robert Kilduff. Firefighter Kilduff was killed in the line of duty on May 23, 2026.

As firefighters, we are part of a brotherhood and sisterhood that extends beyond the communities we serve. Yesterday was an opportunity to stand shoulder to shoulder in support of Firefighter Kilduff’s family, friends, and fellow members of the Boston Fire Department, honoring his sacrifice.

Though separated by distance, we remain united in remembering and honoring a fallen brother.

05/29/2026

Today, members of B Group Engine 2 took advantage of time between calls to sharpen their skills through hands-on training.

Training topics included:
Hose handling, master stream appliance operations, pumping operations, and forcible entry techniques

Regular training helps ensure our members remain proficient, prepared, and ready to respond when needed.

05/24/2026

05/20/2026

Anniversary of Line of Duty Death.

Firefighter Thomas Lange

FF Lange proudly served 4 years in the United States Marine Corps, including 1 year in Vietnam, before joining the Pittsfield Fire Department in 1974.

On February 5, 1978, FF Lange contracted an illness while performing CPR in the line of duty. Despite the effects of that illness, he continued to serve the City of Pittsfield with dedication and pride. Over the course of his career, he faithfully served this community for 32 years.

You’ll notice at stations today, red Union Flags are flown at half-staff in his honor and memory.

We will never forget FF Thomas “Todd” Lange and his commitment, sacrifice, and service to our department and community.

05/17/2026

Some well deserved recognition is in order.

The below members received “Save Awards” from the Emergency Medical Services Committee of Berkshire County at their annual banquet held on Friday, May 15, 2026. These awards recognize the successful resuscitation of patients experiencing cardiac arrest.

We are extremely proud of our members for their professionalism, training, and dedication to serving the community. Their actions truly made a difference, and we also recognize the outstanding teamwork and partnership with the local ambulance services we work alongside every day.

Captain Matthew Risley
Lieutenant Kendrick Reese
Lieutenant Brandon Bailey
Temporary Lieutenant Kyle Bailey
Firefighter Clarence Gunn
Firefighter Jack Roy
Firefighter Marc Rosa
Firefighter Tyler Vu
Firefighter Jonathan LaCasse
Firefighter Matthew Tobin
Firefighter Sam Din
Probationary Firefighter Justin Nackoul
Probationary Firefighter Carolina Jones

Pictured below from Left to Right D Group Engine 5 (2025); Firefighter Marc Rosa, Lieutenant Kendrick Reese, and Firefighter Jack Roy.

We unfortunately did not receive photos of all members present.

05/16/2026

Earlier today, Firefighters Nate, Katie, Tom, and Shank visited Elm Preschool to teach students about fire safety and give them a hands-on look at Tower 1.

The students learned about firefighter gear, fire apparatus, and important safety tips while having plenty of fun along the way. Thank you to Elm Pre School for having us!

05/10/2026

No, this vehicle isn’t being added to the fleet for PFD… although morale has never been higher for the Engine 2 “C Group” crew and Training Captain Arnhold.

04/29/2026

Subject: Animal Rescue
Authored By: Deputy Chief Daniel Garner
Authorized By: DC Garner
Released at: 28 April, 2026 12:11PM

During the morning of April 28, 2026, the Pittsfield Fire Department responded in front of 150 Francis Avenue for a reported cat in a tree.

On arrival we found a feline an estimated 30' in a tree. Witnesses said the cat had been in the spot "for days"

Engine 3 crew laddered the tree and Probationary Firefighter Carolina Jones ascended the ladder and retrieved the cat to the waiting PD Animal
Control Officer.

Despite some probable malnourishment the cat is expected to make a full recovery.

04/25/2026

Between calls this evening members of “A” Group conducted night operations with Tower 1.

Crews reviewed key operational procedures and practiced positioning, setup, and efficient use of the aerial under low-light conditions.

Training like this helps ensure our firefighters remain sharp and ready to respond safely and effectively; day or night when the community needs us.