Cadime Says Fire Coverage is Sufficient

Seekonk Town Administrator Shawn Cadime said staffing for the Fire Department was sufficient on April 21, when first responders from several local communities were brought in to help fight a blaze at 29 Emily Way.

The property owned by former Select Board member Justin Sullivan was deemed a total loss. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

There were seven firefighters on duty although 10 are budgeted per shift.

Cadime noted in FY’23 the Select Board had been “committed to increasing staffing levels with a goal of reaching 12 firefighters per shift over a three-year period. In FY2024, funding for five additional firefighters was approved, bringing staffing to 10 firefighters per group. Due to competing priorities, no additional positions were added in FY2025 and FY2026. However, the Board remains committed to achieving the 12-per-group staffing goal.”

Cadime said the absence of a municipal water source did not delay the response to the fire. Although Seekonk does not own a tanker truck, Cadime explained the town has a mutual aid agreement with the Rehoboth Fire Department for tanker support. Two tankers were used from Rehoboth. Tankers were also brought in from Plainville, Berkley, Raynham, and Warren, RI.

“We understand that any fire in the community can understandably raise concerns among residents,” Cadime said. “I want to assure residents that the safety of our community is our top priority. Our fire department is made up of highly qualified, dedicated professionals who undergo constant training day in and day out to stay prepared for any situation. We have strong leadership in the department and a team I would proudly put up against any department in the Commonwealth.”

“While homes located outside of the water districts present unique challenges, they are not uncommon, and we are fully prepared with the proper protocols in place to respond effectively,” Cadime added. “Our engines are equipped with 1,000-gallon water tanks (2 were on scene not including mutual aid), providing us with approximately 16 minutes of active firefighting using standard hose operations, more than enough time to begin suppression efforts while a tanker is en route. The system is designed to ensure continuous and effective firefighting capability, no matter the location. We are confident in our readiness and remain committed to protecting every corner of our community.”