Norwood’s Fire Department entered a new era this week as the long‑planned 70‑hour work schedule and two‑platoon system officially went into effect. The change, approved unanimously at the annual town meeting, represents one of the most substantial reorganizations of the department since the early 20th century.
To meet the increased manpower requirements of the new schedule, two permanent firefighters—John Howard of Tremont Street and Leo Coughlin of Johnson Court—were appointed to the department. Both men are well‑known locally as former athletic standouts. Two additional firefighters, Charles Sparrow and Joseph Devine, have been brought on as temporary appointees pending the establishment of a civil service list.
The new system is already being tested. Within the first week, firefighters responded to several grass fires and a house fire on Washington Street. The alarm for the house fire sounded at 4:34 p.m. on Wednesday, and the blaze was brought under control with the “all out” given at 5:13 p.m.—a brisk and efficient response that officials say demonstrates the effectiveness of the new schedule.
The reorganization also accommodates the temporary absence of firefighter Jo McAuliffe, who is on leave for civilian defense duties. With wartime demands reshaping every corner of municipal life, the department’s leadership emphasized that the new system ensures Norwood remains fully protected.
Town employees also received the first half of their wartime compensation this week—$100 of the $200 voted at the annual meeting—distributed with Wednesday’s payroll. Firefighters noted that the community’s support at town meeting, and the willingness of residents to invest in public safety during a period of national uncertainty, has not gone unnoticed.
In a statement of appreciation, the firefighters’ committee thanked Norwood voters for their unanimous endorsement of the 70‑hour week. The committee called the change “a necessary step to maintain readiness and protect the town during wartime conditions.”
\Source: Norwood Free Press
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