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Barn Destroyed in Predawn Fire Monday on Silvermine Road

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A two-story barn in New Canaan was lost in a predawn fire Monday, officials say. The horses kept in the barn at 407 Silvermine Road already had been let out into a pasture and were not injured in the blaze, according to New Canaan Interim Fire Chief Albert Bassett. 

Firefighters were alerted by a call at approximately 4:48 a.m. from a worker at the New Canaan Mounted Troop, which is located nearby, Bassett said. A second alarm went out at 4:56 a.m., dispatch records show. The barn included stalls downstairs and a hayloft upstairs “and it was fully involved when we got there,” Bassett said. “It was already a loss when we arrived,” he said.

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New Canaan Fire Marshal on Home Heating Equipment Safety

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There have been two deadly fires in the northeast in the past month. The first being a Philadelphia row house fire in which 12 people were killed. The fire was most likely started when a 5-year-old boy ignited a Christmas tree with a lighter. 

The second fire, a week ago Sunday in the Bronx, N.Y., in which 17 people were killed, was caused by a space heater that was either faulty or improperly used. The death and injuries in this fire were the result of smoke inhalation. The reason for the smoke spread was that doors were left open or did not close properly.

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New Canaan Fire Marshal: Taking Down Christmas Trees

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Taking down the Christmas tree isn’t nearly as much fun as putting it up. But the longer a tree stays up, the greater a fire hazard it becomes. All Christmas trees can burn, but a dried-out tree can become engulfed in flames in a matter of seconds. In a year where many people began decorating their homes earlier than usual, trees have been in homes longer than usual, presenting an increased risk of fire as the days go by. When Christmas is over or the tree begins to drop needles, dispose of it.

Albert Bassett

Promotions, Hiring Announced in New Canaan Police and Fire Departments

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The New Canaan Fire and Police Departments last week announced promotions and as well as a new hire among the town’s bravest and finest. The Police Commission during a special meeting Dec. 15 promoted Sgt. Louis Gannon to lieutenant, and promoted officer Thomas Callinan to sergeant, according to a press release issued by Police Chief Leon Krolikowski. The Fire Department promoted Michael Jackson to fire lieutenant, and also formally welcomed new full-time firefighter Chris Isaacs to the NCFD ranks, according to a press release issued by Interim Fire Chief Albe Bassett.

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New Canaan Fire Marshal Issues ‘Holiday Safety Tips’

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The holidays are an exciting time of year and to help ensure a safe holiday season, here are some tips from the New Canaan Fire Marshal’s Office. Trees

When purchasing an artificial tree, look for the label “Fire Resistant.” 
When purchasing a live tree, check for freshness. A fresh tree is green, needles are hard to pull from branches and when bent between your fingers, needles do not break. The trunk butt of a fresh tree is sticky with resin, and when tapped on the ground, the tree should not lose many needles. 
When setting up a tree at home, place it away from fireplaces, radiators or portable heaters. Place the tree out of the way of traffic and do not block doorways. 
Cut a few inches off the trunk of your tree to expose the fresh wood.