In this issue...
Badin 2- Alarmer
On January 4, Badin Volunteer F.D. (Station 26) was dispatched to a residential structure fire.
See story on page 4
Concord Dwelling Fire
On February 22, 2025, the Concord Fire Department was dispatched to a reported dwelling fire on Lee Court .
See story on page 13
2 FFs Injured at Iredell Co. Blaze
Firefighters battled a structure fire on Indian Springs Drive recently.
See story on page 14
Fire Held to Kitchen and Attic Above It
Siler City, Bonlee and Staley along with First Health of the Carolinas were dispatched for a reported house fire.
See story on page 20
West Iredell Awards for 2024
On January 24 the West Iredell Volunteer F.D. held its Annual Awards Banquet for 2024.
See story on page 27
Stony Point Awards for 2024
Stony Point Fire Department held their annual Fireman's banquet at Station 1.
See story on page 27
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ExcavatorFire
Badin 2- Alarmer
Badin VolunteerFire Department (Station 26) was dispatched to a residential structure fire on Falls Road in Badin at 0430 on January 4, 2025. Upon arrival, units found a two-story quadraplex with smoke and flames coming through the roof. Asecond alarm was called and personnel quickly extinguished the fire. The fire was contained to the townhouse of origin with some damage to the immediately adjacent townhouse. The Stanly County Fire Marshal’s Office was called to investigate. Mutual aid came from: Bethany Community Fire Department (Station 28); East Side VolunteerFire Department (Station 64/65); New London VolunteerFire Department (Station 24); City of Albemarle Fire Department (Station 1); CenterRural VolunteerFire Department (Station 56); Southside VolunteerFire Department (Station 60); Oakboro Fire & Rescue (Station 44 - Air Unit); Stanly County EMS; Badin Police Department; Stanly County Sheriff’s Department. - Submitted by Timothy A. Jarman
An excavatorcaught fire way off the beaten path so the only thing we could get to it was a brush truck. No injuries were reported from this incident. - Fire News photo by Noah Pressler
Quick Stop at Raleigh 2-Alarmer
On January 7, 2025, two alarms were struck fora fire at apartments on The Lakes Drive in Raleigh. Arriving units found fire showing through the roof of the three-story building. Quickly contained, the second alarm companies were soon released from staging.
- Fire News photo by Mike Legeros
Beaufort House Fire
Full Circle Lithium FCL-X is a Game Changer
The fire service is having to meet new challenges with lithiumion battery fires. The struggle is to keep up with the changing technology. The challenges are the type of fire, suppression techniques and the fire service’s ability to adapt. With these challenges, there is much needed innovation. To meet the need of lithium fire suppression, we must consider three factors: Time of suppression, Efficiency, and Safety.
There are many claims made regarding different suppression agents and their ability to extinguish lithium-ion fires. If we weigh the suppression technology available against the three factors, can we say that these suppression products work or do the fires go out despite our efforts while utilizing a product or process that simply allowed the fuel to burn out in the time it took to deploy these solutions.
Time of suppression is all over the map in lithium-ion fire control. Reports show that fires of varying size and complexity have taken hours, days or even weeks to suppress. The length of time it takes to suppress these fires thus far is unacceptable. We need a much more efficient deployment and solution that limits the time spent on these incidents. We must learn and adapt our methods to meet the access issues and complex fire behavior of these incidents. Ultimately safety and successful mitigation of these fires is paramount. In what is developed as a product and process solution (both product and process must compliment one another), must always have an aspect of safety buffer. Placing unnecessary hazard or harm onto responders or the public is counterproductive.
The solution to all these factors can be found in a product called FCL-X by Full Circle Lithium. It is a fire suppression agent that has been shown to extinguish entire EVcar fires with full state of charge and full battery involvement simply on tank water from a pumper. Furthermore, this was done in less than 10 minutes for suppression and less than an hour for full incident completion. Not all products have been found to be this successful. This product is simple and presents a game-changing solution to the fire service in the suppression of lithium-ion fires with unprecedented success.
For more information contact AESTFire & Safety, Sales@AESTsafety.net or call 910-506-4060.
- Submitted by Jack Fleeman
On January 28, 2025, the Beaufort Fire Department was alerted fora structure fire at the Gallants Channel property. Engine 1, Ladder1, Engine 2, Car2 and multiple auto and mutual aid departments responded. Crews arrived to a two-story home with heavy fire showing. Tankers were requested due to no hydrants in the area. Crews remained on the scene forapproximately two hours.
Well Involved Single-Wide on Starlight Rd.
On January 30, 2025, at 0629, the Shepherds, Cool Springs, Statesville and Troutman fire departments responded to a report of a structure fire well involved on Starlight Road. Upon theirarrival, crews were met with heavy fire coming from a single-wide mobile home. Two lines were stretched, and an exterioroperation was transmitted. Shepherd’s engine received its watersupply from several tankers staged on the main road and the fire was placed undercontrol at 0713. No injuries were reported, and the cause was under investigation.
- Fire News photos by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Stallings House Fire a Total Loss
On January 10, 2025, at 1503, Stallings Fire Department, along with Matthews Fire and EMS, Wesley Chapel and Idlewild fire departments, responded to a reported structure fire on Wyntree Court with smoke and flames coming from a house. Stallings Engine 201 arrived to find a single-story home fully involved. Firefighters stretched lines to the front doorand rearof the structure. Aresident who was able to safely evacuate the home was also treated. Approximately 13 minutes into the operation, as snow began to fall, firefighters transitioned to a defensive attack. Stallings Ladder20 was utilized during the defensive fire operation. The fire was brought undercontrol within 45 minutes. Union EMS transported one person to Atrium CMC fortreatment of burns and smoke inhalation. The fire was underinvestigation by the Union County Fire Marshal’s Office, but initial indications pointed to a fire that began in the kitchen. The home was a total loss. - Fire News photo by FullyInvolvedMediaGroup.com
Cold Morning Fire
In the early hours on January 25, 2025, Bonlee, Bennett and Goldston fire departments were alerted fora structure fire. Upon arrival, Bonlee units found a two-story structure with flames and smoke showing. SilerCity Fire Department was added upon arrival. Strong work by all those involved on a frigid morning. Thanks to all the mutual aid partners. Prayers forall those involved. - Submitted by Scott J. Murphy
SilerCity Commercial Fire
Just aftermidnight on February 1, 2025, SilerCity personnel were alerted by a phone call to the station of a possible fire at a local restaurant. Engine 912 arrived with careerpersonnel and found smoke coming from the roof. First alarm companies found a deepseated fire in the kitchen and prep areas. As sufficient personnel arrived, interioroperations began. Chief Murphy noticed conditions deteriorating quickly and pulled all personnel from the structure as fire began venting from the roof. Ourthoughts and prayers to the owners and all employees affected and thank you to ourauto aid departments, Silk Hope, Staley, Bonlee, and First Health of the Carolina’s and the second-alarm companies, Pittsboro, Bennett and Randolph County companies Liberty Ladder3 in Franklinville Rescue 8. - Submitted by Scott J. Murphy
Truck Fire on I-77
On February 4, 2025, at 1856, the Statesville, Shepherds and Troutman fire departments responded to report of a truck fire on northbound Interstate -77, south of exit 49. Units arrived to a fully involved truck on the shoulderof the roadway. Crews stretched one hoseline and began to extinguish the fire, and a second line using foam was placed into operation. I-77 northbound was shut down forabout 40 minutes backing up traffic formiles. No injuries were reported. - Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Drewry Assists Golden Belt
On January 26, 2025, the Drewry VolunteerFire Department assisted the Golden Belt Fire Department and Cokesbury VolunteerFire Department at a single-story dwelling structure fire with two trucks and 10 firefighters. - Photo courtesy of Drewry VFD
Charlotte CarFire Snuffed
On January 5, 2025, Charlotte Fire Department Ladder39 B-Shift responded to a reported vehicle fire in a parking lot on PinevilleMatthews Road at the Arboretum Shopping Center. The driver attempted to use a fire extinguisheron the vehicle priorto Charlotte’s arrival. Ladder39 arrived to flames coming from the engine compartment of a mid-size car. Utilizing the Hurst tools, firefighters opened the hood and began a quick knockdown. The scene was left with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department. - Fire News photo by FullyInvolvedMediaGroup.com
Concord Dwelling Fire
On February 22, 2025, at 2300, the Concord Fire Department was dispatched to a reported dwelling fire on Lee Court Southwest in Station 3’s first due. Engine 3 arrived to a single-story dwelling with heavy fire showing from an attached garage. Engine 3 commenced the fire attack, with Rescue 3 conducting the primary search. Battalion 1 assumed command on arrival. Crews were able to control the fire in eight minutes, preventing fire spread to the residence and there were no reported injuries. The department’s Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating to determine the cause. Units on the alarm included Engines 3, 1, 4 and 8; Rescue 3; Ladder1; Battalion Chiefs 1 and 3; and Fire 9.
- Fire News photo by William GKennedy
Charlotte House Fire on Woodway Place
On February 1, 2025, at 1451, the Charlotte Fire Department was dispatched to a house fire in the 4700 block of Woodway Place after a resident called 911 and reported a fire in theirkitchen. The caller stated the fire had started in the refrigeratorand had spread throughout the kitchen. Engine 13 arrived on the scene, reporting smoke showing and confirmed the working fire. Crews were able to control the fire in 12 minutes, and there were no injuries to any firefighters. Two of the residents were treated at the scene for smoke inhalation but did not need to be transported. Investigators determined the cause of the fire was accidental. Investigators also found the residence did not have smoke detectors. Units on initial assignment included Engines 21, 13, 10 and 18, Ladder13, Rescue 10, Battalions 4 and 3 and Safety 1.
- Fire News photo by William G. Kennedy
2 FFs Injured at Iredell Co. Blaze
Firefighters from Mooresville, Mount Mourne, Shepherds and South Iredell fire departments battled a structure fire on Indian Springs Drive recently. Afterbeing dispatched around 0445, crews found a fully involved fire on arrival. Two firefighters were injured, including one who was transported to the hospital with non-lifethreatening injuries by Iredell County EMS personnel. Several pets, including two dogs, perished in the blaze, authorities said. The fire was declared undercontrol at 0612 hours The Iredell County Fire Marshal, Mooresville Fire Marshal’s Office, and Iredell County Sheriff’s Office were investigating the cause of the fire. - Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Firefighters and chiefs from Matthews Fire and EMS and Charlotte Fire Department 7th Battalion companies aftera recent training at a Texas Roadhouse slated fordemolition. - Fire News photo by FullyInvolvedMediaGroup.com Pineville Fire Department aftera second-alarm apartment fire on Oakbrook Drive in Pineville. - Fire News photo by FullyInvolvedMediaGroup.com
The Threats of Diesel Exhaust forFirefighters: The Three MajorThreats
Threat 1: Emissions While Idling
Afactor for firefighters to consider is how diesel functions when the truck is idling during an apparatus check. Many new technology diesel exhaust devices require consistent high engine temperatures to operate as intended. An idling truck may release emissions that contain unburned fuel and products of incomplete combustion. SCR output has also raised concerns when the engine is first started, because SCR injects ammonia into the exhaust gas stream and reacts with NO and NO2 to form nitrogen and water. Unfortunately, if too much ammonia is injected, then “ammonia slip” occurs, in which ammonia (NH3) can cause fluid to accumulate in the lungs (pulmonary edema).
Threat 2: Ultrafine Particles Found in Diesel Exhaust
Diesel exhaust contains “ultrafine particles” (UP), which are easily absorbed into lung tissue and the bloodstream, through the bloodbrain barrier, triggering adverse effects such as cardiovascular inflammation or causing blood clots. UPs have been shown to have negative effects on the cardiovascular system, including autonomic control of heart rhythm, endothelial cell function, and clotting/fibrinolysis pathways. Most studies define UPof 100 nanometers (nm) or less in aerodynamic diameter (PM 0.1). UPis considered the most dangerous of all types of PM because they are small enough to be able to contribute to translocation across the cell barrier. Once particles translocate into the bloodstream they can reach any organ in the body including the brain.
Threat 3: Exposure to Carbon Monoxide
During firefighting operations, firefighters can be exposed to high levels of Carbon Monoxide (CO), a colorless and odorless gas that can impair oxygen delivery in the body and lead to symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and even more severe health effects. Despite advancements in emission controls, Carbon Monoxide can still be a concern, particularly in confined or poorly ventilated spaces where diesel engines are running.
Conclusion: Make 100 % Source Capture Exhaust Removal Part of YourPrevention Strategy
Due to these on-going diesel exhaust threats, NIOSH officials have visited and measured air quality in fire stations and recommended “local exhaust ventilation systems” for fire apparatus. Because these systems are attached to the apparatus, diesel exhaust is captured at the source, serving as an extension of a vehicle’s exhaust system tailpipe and sending harmful particulates and gases outdoors. This also minimizes the amount of air that needs to be removed, helping to reduce total energy costs. For more information contact ACS Air Cleaning Specialists, 919-255-9344, airclean@acscarolinas.com, www.aircleaningspecialistsinc.com
1 Injured at Gordon Metal Fire
On January 14, 2025, at 1758, the Statesville and Shepherds fire departments responded to a report of an explosion with fire at L. Gordon Iron and Metal on Salisbury Highway in Statesville. Arriving units had fire showing with one person injured on arrival. Crews quickly contained and extinguished a fire in the ATower and a control time of 1821 was transmitted. The injured employee was transported to the hospital by Iredell County EMS.
- Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Fire Stopped, Structures Saved
On January 24, 2025, at 1325, the Shepherds and Mooresville fire departments along with North Carolina Forestry Service responded to a grass and woods fire on Breezeway Lane. While responding units were informed that the fire was threatening several structures and upgraded the alarm to a structure fire adding Troutman, West Rowan, and Iredell Rescue Squad to the alarm. Arriving units found a large area of brush burning and threatening a house and several outbuildings. Crews stretched multiple lines and utilized brush trucks to quickly protect the buildings and extinguish the fire.
- Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Smyrna Lane Fire
On February 10, 2025, at 1252, the Mount Mourne Fire Department along with the Mooresville, South Iredell, Atwell and Cornelius fire departments were alerted fora structure fire on Smyrna Lane. Arriving units transmitted a working fire in a 10- x 15-foot structure. Mooresville Engine 3 was first-due and stretched one line to the structure and Mount Mourne and South Iredell supplied waterto the engine. Crews were able to extinguish the fire before it extended to the adjacent home but did melt some of the siding on the home. The fire was placed undercontrol at 1305 and the cause was underinvestigation.
- Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
ChandeleurDrive
SolarPanel Fire
On January 8, 2025, at 1410, Mooresville Fire Rescue along with Mount Mourne Fire Department responded to a call fora report of a roof of a structure on fire on ChandeleurDrive. Arriving units found solarpanels on the roof of a two-story structure on fire. Crews secured the powerand extinguished the fire. Additional crews searched the attic area forany extension from the roof and found a small fire that was immediately extinguished. No injuries were reported, and the cause is underinvestigation.
- Fire News photo by ImmsterfirePhotos.com
Fairview Structure Fire
On the evening of February 18, 2025, the Fairview Fire Department was alerted fora report of a structure fire on Quail Landing Court. Upon arrival, Fairview Engine 1 had heavy fire showing from an attached two-cargarage. The fire extended into the house on both the first and second floors. First, arriving crews put multiple handlines in operation, while additional units set up rural watersupply operations. The fire was brought undercontrol within an hour. Mutual aid was provided by Swift Creek, Cary, Holly Springs, and Garnerfire departments. Raleigh Air10 was requested to assist with filling airbottles at the scene. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation by Wake County Fire Marshal.
- Fire News photo by Chris Creighton
Long Overhaul at Troutman House Fire
On January 14, 2025, at noon, Troutman Fire Rescue, Shepherds and West Iredell fire departments responded to a structure fire on Lytton Street in Troutman. Troutman Chief 1 arrived to heavy smoke coming from a 2-1/2-story structure. Crews made an aggressive interiorattack, but were hampered by hoarding conditions. Crews were unable to make access through the back doorof the home, but were able to attack the fire through second story windows. Crews made a great stop on the fire that had the potential of extending. There was an extensive overhaul required. The Red Cross assisted two residents. South Iredell responded with theirAirVan. The fire was declared undercontrol at 1251.
- Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Starting a Streak
On January 26, 2025, at 1402, Shepherds, Mooresville, Mount Mourne, Sherills Ford and South Iredell fire departments responded to a report of a structure fire on Golden Pond Lane. Aworking fire was transmitted by first arriving units and one line was stretched to the front door. Crews extinguished the fire and additional crews from the Mount Mourne searched fora reported dog inside the structure. Crews located the dog which appeared to be in good condition and reunited the pup with its grateful owner. The fire, which would be the first of three working fires in less than an hour, was brought undercontrol at 1428. The cause was under investigation. - Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Fire Held to Kitchen and Attic Above It
Early on February 13, 2025, SilerCity, Bonlee and Staley along with First Health of the Carolinas were dispatched fora reported house fire. Assistant Chief D. Murphy arrived to heavy fire on the exteriorwall of the home, extending into the attic area. Aworking fire re-alert was requested, adding engine companies from Silk Hope and Bennett. Personnel were able to contain the fire to the kitchen and attic space above the kitchen. As always teamwork makes dream work.
- Submitted by Scott J. Murphy
1 Fatality in Hwy 35
Rollover
into Water
Gaston Fire and Rescue (Northampton County) responded with Conway VolunteerFire Department to an MVArolloverinto the wateroff NC 35 Highway. Gaston’s public safety divers entered the waterand conducted a sweep inside and around the vehicle with one person being recovered. Also on the scene were Woodland VFD, Northampton County Fire Marshal’s Office, EMS, and Sheriff’s Office, North Carolina DOT, and Northampton County 911 Communications. - Fire News photo by Paul Nowell
Western Blvd.
Overturn
MVA
On the evening of February 19, 2025, the Raleigh Fire Department, Raleigh Police Department and Wake County EMS resources responded to a reported MVAoverturn at Western Boulevard and Carolina Avenue. Upon arrival, units found a single-carwith overturn. One patient was transported to the hospital by EMS. - Fire News photo by Chris Creighton
Charlotte Medical Emergency Causes Fatal MVA
On October9, 2024, Charlotte Fire Department Ladder39-C Shift was alerted foran MVAat Old Providence and Rea roads. Within seconds of going en route, ALARM notified crews that Mecklenburg County EMS was giving CPR instructions overthe phone. Ladder39 Captain Shawn Sandau immediately requested Engine 39 to be added to the response. Ladder39 arrived and found a full-size pickup that hit a brick wall on Old Providence Road. An off-duty Charlotte Fire Department firefighterhad already begun CPR on the driverpriorto Station 39’s arrival. Crews from Ladder39 and Engine 39 continued CPR and delivered multiple shocks via an AED. Valiant medical interventions were continued in collaboration with Mecklenburg County EMS and Charlotte firefighters to save the driver’s life. The victim was transported to the Level I Trauma Centerat Atrium CMC Main, where the driverlater succumbed to injuries. The cause of the crash was unknown and underinvestigation by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department. - Fire News photo by FullyInvolvedMediaGroup.com
Dump Truck, Pickup Head-on MVA
Troutman Fire rescue responded on February 4, 2025, at 1432, to a head-on MVAat the intersection of Oswalt Amity and Overcash Roads. Adump truck collided with a pickup truck at that intersection. Crews were able to extricate the driver, who was transported to the hospital by Iredell County EMS. - Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Fully Involved in Stony Point
On December28, 2024, at 1200, the Stony Point, Trinity, Hiddenite, Central and Harmony fire departments along with Iredell County EMS and Iredell County Rescue Squad responded to a structure fire on Lambert Drive. Arriving units transmitted a working fire fora 30- x 50-foot shop fully involved with a vehicle inside. Crews made an aggressive interiorattack but were called out of the building when the roof showed signs of collapse and went into a defensive operation. Crews used foam to help extinguish the fire that was brought undercontrol at 1241. No injuries were reported, and the cause was underinvestigation.
- Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Chimney Fire in Apex
On the morning of February 19, 2025, the Apex Fire Department responded to a reported residential structure fire on Rainesville Lane in Apex. Upon arrival, Engine 31 reported a fire in a twostory frame residence. Fire was found in the chimney, two lines were stretched, and the fire was quickly extinguished. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation. Mutual aid was received from Cary Fire Department. - Fire News photo by Chris Creighton
Looks a Bit Familiar, Eh?
On January 31, 2025, at 0923, the Shepherds, Cool Springs, Troutman and Statesville fire departments were called to the scene of a previous structure fire on Moon Glow Lane. AShepherds engine transmitted the working fire. Crews stretched one line and additional arriving crews stretched an additional line while Shepherds, Troutman and Cool Springs supplied tankers to supply the engine. Crews extinguished the fire, and an extensive overhaul operation followed. - Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Charlotte Apartment Fire on Pine Shadow Drive
On February 25, 2025, at 1734, the Charlotte Fire Department was dispatched to a reported apartment fire on Pine Shadow Drive in Station 36’s first due area. Aresident called 911 reporting that his apartment was on fire and that he had been burned on his hands and face when he tried to extinguish the fire. Engine 36 arrived and found that the fire had been knocked down by the apartment’s sprinklersystema and were able to quickly extinguish the fire. The resident was treated fornon-life-threatening burns. The cause was determined to be accidental, started by cooking. Units on the assignment included Engines 36, 27, 34 and 35, Ladders 31 and 27, Rescue 11, Safety 1, Battalion 2 and Car8. - Fire News photo by William G. Kennedy
Rescue Training forSouth Iredell
On January 27, 2025, the South Iredell VolunteerFire Department had the opportunity to do some rescue training at a structure that would be used fora live burn. Asmoke machine filled the structure to simulate z visibility and crews took turns searching forvictims. The training was a success forcrews in sharpening theirskills.
- Submitted by Scott J. Murphy
with firefighters from Bennett, Bonlee, Silk Hope, Pittsboro and Coleridge gathered to conduct a live burn in an acquired structure. Personnel worked on hoseline advancement and some new driver training. Thank you to all forgiving up theirSaturday morning and enduring the cold to get much needed training. Thanks also to our instructors and the property ownerforthe opportunity. And lastly and most importantly to ourFFAssociation forthe lunch … it hit the spot!
- Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Report from the ‘Bull City’
The Durham Fire Department has placed five new pieces of apparatus in service. Fournew 2024 Sutphen pumpers forEngines 2, 8, 10, and 12, and a 2024 Sutphen SPH100 mid-mount platform for Ladder2. The fourengines are similarin spec to the nine Sutphen pumpers delivered in 2022, which introduced the new specs and new graphics. - Fire News photos by Mike Legeros
FFs from Mount Mourne, Lake Norman and South Iredell Train
Mount Mourne, Lake Norman and South Iredell Firefighters before live burn training. - Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Celebrating the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, Knox Company, and Chief Ron Siarnicki for Their Unwavering Commitment to Supporting First Responders
Kidneys for Communities’prestigious National Community Impact Award, honoring organizations and individuals dfor exceptional leadership, vision and dedication to saving lives through living kidney donation, was presented recently highlighting remarkable contributions to the cause.
This year’s ceremony spotlighted two major awards, the Inaugural Corporate Social Responsibility National Community Impact Award, was presented to the Knox Company for its extraordinary dedication to saving lives through living kidney donations. Under the visionary leadership of Ms. Joni Trempala, Owner and President of Knox Company, the company has played a pivotal role in expanding awareness and action within the first responder community. Despite her personal battle with kidney failure, Ms. Trempala has consistently chosen to focus on those in need. Her leadership, together with her team and in collaboration with National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), has launched the Kidneys for First Responders Program-providing first responders with renewed hope and a second chance at life.
of the first Responder community.
While accepting the award, Victor Stagnaro, Chief Executive Officer of the NFFF and the First Responder Center for Excellence, stated, “By empowering the community to become living kidney donors, we are not only saving lives but also igniting hope and creating a legacy of resilience and unity.”
Concluding the award presentation, the Inaugural Humanitarian of the Year Award was presented to Chief Ronald J. Siarnicki. Recognized for his transformational leadership and unwavering dedication to the Kidneys for Communities First Responders Initiative,
“It was my great honor to invite Chief Ron Siarnicki, Executive Director Emeritus of the NFFF and the First Responder Center for Excellence, to accept his award.” said Atul Agnihotri, Board Chair & CEO, Kidneys for Communities®
The second award recognized the NFFF for its instrumental role in developing the “Expand Your Legacy: Become a Living Kidney Donor” campaign. In partnership with Knox Company and the First Responder Center for Excellence, NFFF has ignited a national movement to raise awareness, inspire living kidney donors, via its Kidneys for First Responders Program. Since partnering with Kidneys for Communities, NFFF has done far more than endorse the program-it has connected organizations nationwide, provided critical guidance, and ensured that the initiative meets the unique needs
Expressing his gratitude, Chief Siarnicki stated, “I am deeply honored to receive this award. It is a testament to the power of community and collaboration.”
These awards recognize those committed to saving lives through living kidney donation underscores the collective effort and profound impact of community-driven initiatives. For more information about the awards and the initiatives supporting first responders through living kidney donation, please visit Kidneys for First Responders. Afour-part video series providing information on being an organ donor and a transplant recipient is also available on firstrespondercenter.org.
Award recipients and presenters gather for a group photo at the National Community Impact Award ceremony.
West Iredell Awards for2024
On January 24, 2025, the West Iredell Volunteer Fire Department held its Annual Awards Banquet for 2024. All members were thanked by Chief of the Department Jerry Houston for their support and dedication to the department and the community. Some members were also recognized for their dedication.
Years of service awards were presented to Brandon Hedrick for 10 years of service by Assistant Chief Almurray Connor (not present Davey Winters 15 years, Chase Sharpe 15 years and Morgan McCoy 10 years).
An award for 30 years of service was presented to Chief Jerry Houston by Assistant Chief Josh Deal.
Aretirement statue and 25 years of service award were presented to Rodney Goforth by the Chiefs of the Department.
Rookie of the Year was presented to DJ Johnson by Assistant Chief Connor.
AMost Certified Training Hours award was presented to Grant McCoy by Assistant Chief Deal.
Officer of the Year was presented to Lieutenant Jeffrey Edwards by Assistant Chief Deal. Firefighter of the year was presented to Grant McCoy by Chief Houston.
The West Iredell Volunteer Fire department is always looking for people to join the department and help their community. If you would like to help out contact them at info@westiredellfd.com. - Fire News photos by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Medical Responder of the Year was presented to Anthony Tournay Hall by Assistant Chief Connor.
Stony Point Awards for2024
On January 18, 2025, the Stony Point Fire Department held their annual Fireman’s banquet at Station 1 on Ruritan Park Road. The banquet was a thank you to all the firefighters, auxiliary members and Junior firefighters who served the department and the community for 2024. Some members were recognized for outstanding service and dedication as well.
Board President Phillip Starnes
thanked Bookkeeper Donna Cockrell for her service to the board and department.
Medical responder of 2024 was presented to Colby Cockrell. Firefighter of 2024 was presented to Garren Smith. Junior Firefighter of 2024 was presented to Noah Johnson by Chief Scotty Abernathy Officer of the Year was presented to Colby Cockrell, Tyler Stafford and Matt Hartsoe (accepted by his
wife Heather). The 2024 Chiefs Award was presented to Autumn Norman. Chief Abernathy, Autumn Norman and Deputy Chief Cockrell.
The 2024 Auxiliary Award was presented to Buddy Tatum. by Auxiliary President Donna Abernathy and Buddy Tatum.
The Stony Point Fire Department is always looking for men and women to join the Department and help them to continue to serve the
community if you are interested in volunteering, you can contact them at info@stonypointfire.org.
- Fire News photos by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
Scenes from the Carolina Fire Days Conference
The Carolina Fire Days Conference was held from November13, through November16, 2024. Firefighters participated in Hands on Training (HOTsessions) in various disciplines including heavy lifting & stabilization hosted by premiere extrication, Mayday mindset, and taking control: fire spouses.
- Fire News photos by FullyInvolved MediaGroup.com
Fairview Fire & Rescue Opens New Station
On February 22, 2025, the Fairview Fire and Rescue Department in Fairview (Union County) held an open house to celebrate the opening of the department’s new station. The new 8,800-squarefoot station is located at 7520 Concord Highway (Highway 601) next to the Fairview Town Hall. The station has five drive-through apparatus bays, crew kitchen and dayroom, offices, sleeping quarters and a training classroom. There is also space behind the station where the county is planning on building a live fire training facility. The new station replaces the departments original station located about a quarter-mile from the new station. The original facility was built in 1965 and had been expanded and renovated several times but was no longerable to meet the needs of the department. - Fire News photo by William G. Kennedy
Kannapolis Fire Department Welcomes New Engine
On February 25, 2025, the Kannapolis Fire Department held a washdown and push-in ceremony fortheirnew Engine 51 at Station 5. Engine 51 is a 2024 Seagrave, with a Capitol cab, a 1500-gpm pump and 1000-gallon watertank. City officials and the public were invited to attend and participate in the event. Kannapolis Fire Department’s Deputy Chief Beard discussed the history and traditions behind the ceremony and the community helped with the washdown of the new engine with water from the old Engine 51. Afterthat, the new engine was wiped down, pushed into the apparatus bays and was officially placed into service.
- Fire News photos by William G. Kennedy
New Quarters forRaleigh Engine 3
New quarters forRaleigh Engine 3 are underconstruction at 936 Rock Quarry Road on the southeast side of the city. The 11,000-square-foot, single-story engine house replaces a 1951 facility at 13 South East Street.
- Fire News photo by Mike Legeros
Gaston 2025 Cadet Officers
Gaston Fire and Rescue (Northampton County,) Cadet Officers (left to right): Captain Harley Strickland, Lieutenant ConnorGodfrey and Secretary Gavin Ward. The Gaston Fire and Rescue Cadet program was organized in 2014 to assist ourorganization with recruitment of young people into emergency services. Since 2014 they have had five cadets become careerfirefighters, seven cadets become careerEMS personnel, three go into law enforcement and many serve as local volunteer firefighters. This is an important program forourfire department as it keeps a steady stream of young volunteers coming through the door.
- Fire News photo by Paul Nowell
Prepping for a New Station
On January 11, 2025, Charlotte Station 11 was closed and Engine 11 and Rescue 11 were relocated to temporary quarters at Station 4 and Station 1, respectively. The 1958 engine house was planned to be replaced with a new and largerstation on the same site. The next day (shown), both companies were back at theirold quarters, packing up a few more things to move. They loaded theiritems onto a truck from the training division.
- Fire News photos by Mike Legeros
Mount Mourne Hosts
Live Burn
2 Academies to Staff Raleigh Stations
The Raleigh Fire Department is running two concurrent recruit academies for2025. Academy 54 is shown. They started on January 6, 2025, with 14 new recruits. It’s a “short” academy for16 weeks, with recruits already certified as EMTs. Academy 55 started on February 10, 2025, with 38 recruits. It’s a “long” academy for28 weeks. Both academies are conducted at the Keeter Training Centerand with additional off-site training. Upon graduation, they’ll be assigned to one of the city’s 28 fire stations.
- Fire News photo by Mike Legeros
On March 8, 2025, the Mount Mourne VolunteerFire Department held live burn training, along with the South Iredell and Lake Norman fire departments’at a property on Presbyterian Road that was donated by the ShearerPresbyterian Church. With this type of training, they are able to experience the extreme heat, zero visibility while searching forpossible victims and extinguishing the fire. These scenarios sharpen the firefighters’skills to betterprotect the communities they serve. The training was a success and once the structure was no longerstructurally sound it was burned down undertheirsupervision.
- Fire News photos by ImmsterFirePhotos.com
