Fire News Virginia, April/May 2023

In this issue...

Trailer Fire in Buckingham County

Buckingham County received a call for a trailer fire with flames through the roof.

See story on page 14

Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater Fire

Virginia Beach Fire Department responded to a commercial fire on Cellar Door Way.

See story on page 17

Commercial Fire on Progress Road

Suffolk Fire and Rescue responded to the 1300 block of Progress Road for a commercial structure fire.

See story on page 21

5-Vehicle MVA on I-495

Fairfax County Units on scene of a fivevehicle crash on Interstate 495 north.

See story on page 24

Structure Fire at Hampton University

Fire crews responded to structure fire on the campus of Hampton University.

See story on page 26

2022 Governor’s Fire Service Awards

Governor Glenn Youngkin announced the recipients of the 2022 Governor’s Fire Service Awards.

See story on page 42

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From the Editor’s Desk

Dennis Whittam, Editor

CFSI is Around the Corner!

CFSI? To our readers, I ask if you know what the Congressional Fire Service Institute is?

Every year, the departments that make a difference, send a contingency of representatives to Washington, DC, to partake in the National Fire and Emergency Services Symposium and Dinner. In 2023, the CFSI Symposium will take place on May 22- 23.

The purpose of CFSI is to “Educate Members of Congress about Fire and Life Safety.” Formed in 1987, the Congressional Fire Services Caucus was established to just that, educate members of Congress about the work of the fire and emergency services, which goes far beyond simply fighting fires. It is important to know that, “The Fire Caucus was created to be a bipartisan group where Republicans and Democrats could work together to learn about our nation’s fire and emergency services, improve the readiness of local first responders, and jointly recognize their valor and dedication.” Alist of Fire Caucus members can be found on CFSI’s website.

Each year, approximately 2000 fire and emergency officials participate in this event. They attend seminars, conduct meetings with members of Congress and network to build relationships. At the conclusion of the symposium, the attendees assemble in the Washington Hilton

ballroom to hear our highest-ranking political leaders pay tribute to the dedication and commitments of our nation’s first responders.

By attending this event, you will have a better understanding about our government’s role in addressing the challenges and concerns of firefighters, emergency services personnel and the fire service industry. You will have the opportunity to speak with our friends in government about your concerns on national and local issues.

The CFSI program is designed to educate everyone on current and future national issues, legislation and policies that impact the entire fire-rescue and emergency services. Aside from meeting members of Congress and their professional staff, you will have the chance to meet with federal agencies and key administration representatives. In the past, members of the fire service who have attended this event came home with a sense of comradery toward the leaders of state and national organizations that represent the fire service industry. To learn more about the 2023 CFSI Dinner and Symposium, go online and visit www.CFSI.org.

In closing, I will leave you with a statement from the Congressional Fire Service Institute; “As a first responder, your job is to protect the citizens of your community against the threat of

fire and other dangers. Our job at CFSI is to educate members of Congress about the work you perform and how the federal government can support the fire service in making our communities safer.”

I hope you visit the CFSI website to get a better understanding of their purpose and how you can be a part of this great event.

- Dennis

Fairfax County House Fire

On March 21, 2023, at 1745, units were dispatched fora house fire in the 13800 block of Leighfield Street, in the Chantilly area of Fairfax County. Units arrived to a two-story, single-family home with fire and heavy smoke showing. Crews found an exteriorfire in the back of the home which had extended to the interiorand the attic. One dog was removed from the home with no apparent injuries. Firefighters quickly brought the fire undercontrol an d

extinguished it. One resident was evaluated by EMS on the scene and released. There were no reported firefighterinjuries. Fire investigators determined the fire was accidental in nature and started on the exteriorof the home. The cause of the fire was improperly discarded smoking materials. Three occupants were displaced by the fire and Red Cross assistance was offered and declined.

- Photo courtesy of Fairfax County FR

Cover Story

Annandale Commercial Fire

On March 13, 2023, Annandale units were dispatched fora building ire in the heart of Annandale. E408 immediately requested an RIT as the fire was evident from the apron of the firehouse. E408 arrived to heavy smoke showing and smoke within a building. Crews went to work trying to determine the seat of the fire, which appeared to be most heavily concentrated in the kitchen of the Bon Chon Restaurant on Columbia Pike. Units entered the adjacent exposures and found smoke conditions there as well. Evacuation tones were struck so units could regroup. Crews mounted anotherattack with limited success. Command once again ordered everyone out to tran-

sition to a defensive attack. Fourmasterstreams were put into operation, but again the fire could not be fully knocked down. The HazMat Team was dispatched to deploy theirdrones to help with recon, and FFX1 also helped with aerial footage fora short time. It was eventually discovered that the fire was gas fed from a location deep in the centerof the complex, but a Washington Gas rep was unable to shut it off. Eventually, the fire was brought undercontrol more than two hours into the event. In the end, all occupancies were essentially destroyed.

- Submitted by Andrew Pang

Galax FD Responds to Brush Fire

The Galax Fire Department responded to BeaverCreek Road in the Baywood community recently. Arriving units found one acre of steep terrain involved in fire. Brush 14 stretched 400-feet of forestry line to stop the progression, while subsequent units extinguished the flanks. American Electric Powerresponded quickly to kill the downed line and extinguishment was completed. All units cleared in 45 minutes with no injuries reported.

- Photos courtesy of Galax FD

Chesterfield Garage Fire

Recently, Chesterfield Fire and EMS responded to Little Creek L ane fora structure fire. The callerreported there was heavy fire coming from a detached garage. Fire crews began a long lay down the road and quickly stretched lines and put wateron the fire. Eventually the fire was able to be marked undercontrol. Crews remained on scene foran extended period of time preforming overhaul operations. - Fire News photos by CFN Media

TrailerFire in Buckingham County

Buckingham County, next to Prince Edward County, received a call fora trailerfire with flames through the roof on March 15, 2023. Buckingham dispatched Toga and Dillwyn, and automatic mutual aid from Randolph District (Cumberland Co.), Farmville, Prospect

and Hampden-Sydney forengines and tankers. Farmville was first on scene attacking the fire with two handlines to the Aand C sides, while the next engine in attacked the B side. Randolph, Prospect and Dillwyn tankers supplied the water. - Submitted by Dan Pempel

3 Displaced by Residential Fire

Suffolk Fire and Rescue responded to the 1600 Block of Mount Lebanon Avenue fora residential structure fire recently. Emerge ncy Communications dispatched the incident at 1016. Engine 5, Engine 25, Ladder5, Battalion 2, and EMS 2 arrived to heavy fire showing from the front of the single-story residential structure. Heavy fire was located throughout the structure. The fire was placed undercontrol at 1036. Two adults and one child were displaced and were being assisted by the American Red Cross. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation, with Fire Marshal 6 leading the investigation.

Norfolk House Fire

Norfolk B shift companies in the 1st and 3rd battalions responded to a residential fire on WestminsterAvenue. Engine 10, E01, E04, E14, L10, R02, M10, BC01, BC03, and the FM Group found smoke and flames visible on arrival. The home appeared to be vacant at the time, and they were able to call the fire undercontrol in just under50 minutes.

- Photo courtesy of Suffolk FR

- Photo courtesy of Norfolk FR

Veterans United Home Loans AmphitheaterFire

On March 3, 2023, at around 0137, Virginia Beach Fire Department responded to a commercial fire in the 3500 block of CellarDoorWay. Engine 18 arrived to heavy fire showing in the rearof the amphitheater. The crew stretched a 2-1/2 inch line and the engine’s deck gun. Additional crews stretched lines on arrival. Once the watersupply forLadder21 was established, all crews backed out and let the aerial stream knock down most of the fire, which was brought undercontrol around 0230. No civilian injuries were reported; however, one firefightersuf fered a minorinjury.

- Photos courtesy of the City of Virginia Beach FD/Multimedia Services Unit

Buckingham Basement Blaze

The Buckingham VolunteerFire Department received a call fora basement fire on Route 15 in the southern portion of Buckingham County, covered by Prince Edward (Farmville and Prospect FD). Engines and tankers were sent from Farmville, Prospect and

Dillwyn. The house was a ranch with basement and had fireplaces on the first floorand fireplace insert in the basement. Firefighters were able to pull out the stove insert in the basement and put out the fire.

-

by Dan Pempel

Submitted

Hard to Reach Brush Fire

Recently, Richmond crews responded to Southwood Parkway for a brush fire neara structure. Engine 22 arrived and found a 200x 200-foot area of brush on fire around an empty homeless camp in the woods. Truck 8 cut the fence from the Southwood Apartments complex to make entry into the woods and placed a ground ladderto cross a creek. Engine 23 set up a watersupply forEngine 22 at the hydrant in the parking lot. Engines 22 and 23 stretched 800 feet of 2-1/2 inch hose with a gated Yto operate two separate 100-foot hoselines. Once the fire was knocked down, the brush truck arrived and conducted overhaul, cutting up several downed trees and logs. - Photos courtesy of Richmond FD

Déjà vu All OverAgain

The Galax Fire Department responded fora structure fire on the 100 block of Lawrence Street. Arriving units found a fully involved structure with a partial collapse. This structure had suffered damage in a previous fire. Due to the nature of the event, Galax Police Department was called to assist. Engine 1 pulled two lines and the fire was extinguished from a defensive position. All units cleared in one hour. - Photos courtesy of Galax FD

Commercial Fire on Progress Road

Suffolk Fire and Rescue responded to the 1300 block of Progress Road fora commercial structure fire on March 17, 2023. Emergency Communications dispatched a fire alarm at 0240 fora waterflow alarm. Engine 3 and Ladder3 arrived to the building being evacuated. Engine 3 found smoke in the large commercial building and upgraded the response to a commercial structure fire. Ladder3’s crew found a fire on the roof and Engine 3’s crew found fire in a processing area. The building is 250,000 square feet and

moderate smoke conditions were present in the interior. The fire was limited to a processing area in the interiorthat extended to the roof. Extensive roof operations were required to locate and extinguish fire that was between the vents and membrane that extended and covered the roof. Over50 firefighters were on the scene. The Fire Marshal’s Office was investigating the cause and origin of the fire.

- Photos courtesy of Suffolk FR

5-Vehicle MVAon I-495

Fairfax County Units on scene of a five-vehicle crash on Interstate 495 north, priorto Interstate 66. One carwas on fire, which was extinguished. Interstate 495 was closed at Route 50. Two people were being evaluated with non-life-threatening injuries.

- Photos courtesy of Fairfax County FR

Cumberland 3-CarMVA

Cumberland VolunteerFire Department responded to a three-vehicle MVAon Route 60 west on March 17, 2023. Awestbound vehicle with a trailerand two ATVs was stopped to make a turn, waiting fora eastbound carto pass, when anotherwestbound SUVhit the trailerand eastbound car. The driverof the SUVwas trapped underhis vehicle. He was removed and taken by helicopterto VCU hospital. The driverof the eastbound carwas taken to Southside Central Hospital. The two in the otherwestbound vehicle were also taken to Southside. - Submitted by Dan Pempel

Arlington firefighters recently battled a fire on North Kensington Street.

- Submitted by Andrew Pang

The Virginia Statewide CancerSurvey Released

Occupational cancer is now the number one killer of firefighters. Last year in Virginia, eight firefighters died from cancer and 50 others received a diagnosis that contacted the Firefighter Cancer Support Network for assistance.

In partnership with the VCU Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Professional Firefighters and the Richmond Firefighters Association, we have developed a comprehensive survey and registry known as Virginia Firefighters for Lifelong Health. The purpose

of the survey is to generate data to identify the types of cancers being diagnosed, ways to mitigate cancer risk among Virginia’s firefighters as well as used for upcoming legislative initiatives. Also in development is an app that will provide research documents, information on education and nutrition.

All firefighters, current and retired, are encouraged to take the survey. Simply scan the QR code or visit our website at: https://va-flh.vibrenthealth.com.

- Submitted by Steve Weissman

Forestry Lane MVAwith Entrapment

The Galax Fire Department responded foran MVA with entrapment at Highway 58 and Forestry Lane recently. Arriving units found a single-vehicle accident with the lone occupant still inside. Based on patient injury assessment and damage to the vehicle, a complete top removal was initiated. Multiple tools were employed and crews then removed the patient onto a backboard. Patient care was turned overto Baywood Search and Rescue Squad fortransport to Twin County Regional Healthcare with NLTinjuries. Thanks to Virginia State Police, Grayson County Sheriff's Department, and Twin County E-911 for theirassistance. - Photos courtesy of Galax FD

SAVE THE DATE!

Virginia Chapter of the Firefighter Cancer Support Network will hold its Annual Golf Tournament on September 18, 2023.

The Virginia Chapter of the Firefighter Cancer Support Network will hold its annual Golf Tournament on September 18, 2023 at Lee’s Hill Golf Club in Fredericksburg, Virginia. There’s no better way to honor those we lost and support the firefighters currently fighting occupational cancer. Funds raised from the golf tournament support the Firefighter Cancer Support Network’s mission to assist firefighters, EMS providers and their immediate families diagnosed with cancer.

Last year’s event was a great success and we expect this year t o be another sell out. So, mark September 18th on your calendar and keep an eye open for the registration portal to go live.

Please support us by being a sponsor or playing in this worth while tournament. For information, please contact Steve Weissman at sweissman@fcsn.net

Structure Fire at Hampton University

Fire crews responded to structure fire on the campus of Hampton University recently. Upon arrival, heavy smoke was visible and a second-alarm was called. No injuries were reported. Thanks to the

surrounding jurisdictions forbackfilling ourstations, helping us to continue to put all of ourcitizens first.

- Photos courtesy of Lynn Cherry for Hampton FR

VDFP, Danville Finalize Instructors

Fairfax Trains forHigh-Rise Fire

Fairfax County Battalion 406-AShift drilled on high-rise fires and hoseline deployment in a stairwell. Scenario was a fire in an apartment on an upperfloor. Crews had to hook up to the standpipe,

stretch hose in the stairwell and deploy down a hallway to the apartment.

- Photos courtesy of Fairfax County FR

Electrical Vehicle Training forHopewell

The Hopewell Fire and EMS Department hosted an electrical vehicle training class taught by the Energy Security Group forHopewell Fire members, as well as theirneighbors. The class was a highly interactive course that provided an in-depth understanding of Federal Standards and Guidelines and the critical knowledge, skills, and abilities to safely interact with hybrid and electric vehicles at an

operational level. Members attended a lecture series in the mor ning, then received a practical training portion of the program in the alley behind Broadway Garage, who graciously donated vehicles to be used during the training. This training is hard to come by, especially the hands-on side of the program.

- Photos courtesy of Hopewell Fire & EMS

Suffolk FR, Portsmouth TRTTrain

Recently, the Suffolk Fire Rescue Technical Rescue Team performed theirquarterly techrescue drill that involved a confined space rescue at St. Juliens Creek Fire Training Center. Portsmouth Fire TRTalso participated in the drill. - Photos courtesy of Suffolk FR

Suffolk, Hampton Joint SAR Simulation

Suffolk Fire Rescue joined regional assets participating in search and rescue operations with the United States Navy. The Navy worked hand-in-hand with local fire and police simulating the rescue of 21 injured personnel in the water. Units from Suffolk Fire

and Police, James City County Fire and Police and Hampton Fire attended the successful training. The injuries were simulated, but the waterwas cold!

And Another Apartment Fire in Stanley

Stanley Fire Chief Terry A. Pettit reported that forthe second day in a row the Stanley Fire Department was called foran apartment fire. This one occurred on March 14, 2023, at 2137 at the Brady Road Apartments, a fifteen-unit two-story complex on Brady Road. Chief Pettit said firefighters were on the scene within five minutes and were faced with one lower-floorapartment on fire and smoke extending into five otherunits. Smoke alarms going off alerted the occupants to the fire and all the approximately 20 residents were evacuated safely. Due to cold weather, Pettit said that rescue squads were called in from the Page County EMS, Stanley Rescue Squad and Luray Rescue Squad so that residents could be placed in the units to keep warm.

How It Got There Nobody Knows

Stanley Fire Chief Terry A. Pettit reported that the Stanley Fire Department was called to assist the Page County Sheriff’s Department Animal Control Division to assist with the rescue of a cat from an island in the Shenandoah Rivernearthe Alma Boat Landing. With the help of the waterrescue team from the Shenandoah Fire Department crews were able to reach the cat and safely bring it back to shelterin about 45 minutes. The cat is being cared forat the Page County Shelter.

- Submitted by Terry Pettit

- Submitted by Terry Pettit

- Photos courtesy of Suffolk FR

Smoke Detectors forthe Hearing Impaired

Recently, Hopewell Fire and EMS C-Shift helped the Red Cross install special smoke detectors fora resident who is hearing impaired. These detectors are capable of making both an audible and visual alert to a possible fire in the residence. The system works combined with a special “alarm clock” that sits next to a bed and has a vibrating component that will shake the bed to wake someone

Helping Little Fork

Little Fork Fire Rescue has several supporting members who assist with the day-to-day administrative needs and fundraising Sydney Rodda attended the Prince William Gun Show in Manassas. He sold 15 Little Fork Fire Department cookbooks in just a few hours. We would like to thank both Sydney and all of the othersupporting members who donate theirtime to assist the community!

- Photo courtesy of Little Fork FR

up that is hearing impaired. The Fire Department keeps on hand a numberof regularsmoke detectors that can be installed forcitizens who need orrequest them, free of charge. The hearing-impaired detectors are provided by the Red Cross, free of charge as well, but does take some coordinating to get them to the residents.

- Photos courtesy of Hopewell Fire & EMS

You Can’t Save Others … if You Don’t Take Care of Yourself

This free event is sponsored by the Virginia Chapter of the Firefighter Cancer Support Network, Richmond Professional Firefighter Association IAFF Local 995 and is open to ALLwho work in public safety and in our hospitals. Occupational Cancer and Behavioral Health is now the number one killer of firefighters, EMS Providers, Law Enforcement, Dispatchers, and Hospital Workers. This two-part educational program will be held on May 31, 2023, at the Bon Secours Training Center Park in Richmond.

This program will bring together subject matter experts to disc uss these topics and provide current research trends, education, best practices and mitigation.

• Doctor Jeffrey Burgess from the University of Arizona will be the keynote speaker on Firefighter Occupational Cancer. Along with his research team, Dr. Burgess has focused his research on firefighters; a group known to have increased cancer rates compared to the general

population. Dr. Burgess also is leading a research team that es tablished and is now expanding the Fire Fighter Cancer Cohort Study (FFCCS), a national multicenter prospective study including exposure measu rement, biomarkers of effect and cancer outcomes.

• The VCU Massey Cancer Center’s Research Team will provide updates and findings from the recently released Virginia Firefighters for Lifelong Health Cancer Survey.

• Mr. Travis Howze, an author, and motivational wellness educator will discuss behavioral health and suicide in public safety. He spent 14 years in the military and emergency services as a US Marine, Po lice Officer and Firefighter. His motivational message focuses on me ntal health; targeting in on signs and symptoms affected personnel may be displaying through various behavioral patterns and changes, ways of coping with trauma as it applies to the individual, the family and the team.

Promotions in Fairfax County

Fairfax County Fire Chief Butler is proud to announce the promotion of two new command staff. Tracey Reed has been promoted to Assistant Chief, the first female to hold this rank in Fairfax County Fire Rescue Department history. Kenneth Dobbs was promoted to Deputy Chief. Congratulations to both! - Photos courtesy of Fairfax County FR

Suffolk FR’s Dail and Bagley Celebrate 20-Years

Congratulations to Lieutenant Rainey Dail and MFFMichael Bagley on receiving their20-yearanniversary recognition with the

City and Suffolk Fire and Rescue.

- Photos courtesy of Suffolk FR

Norfolk FR’s 2 Canine Members

Did you know Norfolk Fire Rescue has two dogs? Meet “Jones” with handler FirefighterTrevorBlank and “Taylor” with handler FirefighterWayne Proffitt. Both teams are assigned to NFR’s Special Operations and play a big role as members of FEMA’s Virginia Task Force 2. Both dogs are certified as FEMAUSAR “Live Find” search canines. Both handlers are certified FEMACanine Search Specialists. Taylorhad her first deployment in Septemberwith Virginia Task Force 2 down to Florida afterHurricane Ian. Both canines report to the fire stations with Trevorand Wayne and train with other members of Norfolk Fire Rescue.

- Photos courtesy of Norfolk FR

Stanley Apartment Fire

Stanley Fire Chief Terry A. Pettit reported that on March 13, 2023, at 1544, the Stanley Fire Department was called fora structure fire involving an apartment on Kite Hollow Road about two miles East of Stanley. Firefighters arrived to a second floor apartment ablaze, but firefighters were able to keep if from spreading. Five units and 19 firefighters from the Stanley Fire Department responded to the call and it took about 30 minutes to bring the fire undercontrol. One unit and crew from the Page County EMS also responded.

- Submitted by Terry Pettit

VBFAClass 10 Graduation

Virginia Beach Fire Academy (VBFA) Class 10 recruits who graduated on March 16, 2023. The ceremony was held at the Virginia Beach Conference Center. The 34 individuals began the academy on August 25, 2022, and 25 graduated on March 16. In this class were three legacy members.

- Submitted by Ray Smith, VBFD Photographer

Louisa County Fire and EMS FF/Medic Jimmy Parisi Promoted to Lt.

Congratulations to Firefighter/Medic Jimmy Parisi on his promotion to Lieutenant with Louisa County Fire and EMS. Lieutenant Parisi started in fire and EMS as a volunteer in 2013 and became a career member for Louisa County in 2016. He has a background in mountain rescue, as well as other technical rescue applications with the National Ski Patrol. He is a certified Critical Care Paramedic and a graduate of the Virginia Fire Officer Academy.

When asked Lt. Parisi said, “My aspiration is to provide beyond-exceptional service to the citizens and visitors of the community in which I live.”

LCFEMS couldn’t agree more!

Congratulation to Lieutenant Parisi. We look forward to seeing what the future holds!

- Photo courtesy of Louisa County Fire & EMS

Suffolk Department of Fire & Rescue Awarded International Accredited Status

The Suffolk Department of Fire and Rescue in Suffolk, has received Accredited Agency status with the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI) for meeting the criteria established through the CFAI’s voluntary self-assessment and accreditation program. The Suffolk Department of Fire and Rescue is one of more than 300 agencies to achieve Internationally Accredited Agency status with the CFAI and the Center for Public Safety Excellence, Inc. (CPSE).

In Hampton Roads, Suffolk Fire and Rescue joins the Newport News, Hampton and Virginia Beach fire departments as being Internationally Accredited.

The CFAI process is voluntary and provides an agency with an improvement model to assess their service delivery and performance.

Suffolk Fire Chief Michael Barakey said, “The agency’s achievement of Accredited Agency status demonstrates the agency’s commitment to provide the highest quality of service to our community. We have also been able to use the Commission on Fire Accreditation International’s process as a proactive mechanism to plan for the future of this agency and

Congrats to Capt. Terrance Fayson

Congratulations to Captain Terrance Fayson, Station 28, Seven Corners, C-Shift on being recognized for25 years of dedicated service to Fairfax County Fire Rescue and the residents of Fairfax County.

locate areas where we can improve on the quality of the services we provide to the citizens of Suffolk.”

Suffolk Fire and Rescue dedicated four years to conducting a systematic and community-based review of the departments, bureaus and programs to identify best practices and areas to improve services, utilizing data to make decisions on improving performance.

(Left to right) Chief Craig Rollins, CFAI Peer Team Leader, Castle Rock Colorado Fire Department; Chief Keith Johnson; Chief Nick Savage; Chief Michael Barakey; CFAI Commission Chair, Steven Dirksen, Fire Chief Fargo North Dakota Fire Department; Chief William Kessinger; Captain Blake Jennings; Anna Jones, Strategic Planner.

- Photo courtesy Suffolk FR

NAVRAEXTRICATION TRAINING

MAY24-26, 2023 ATSUBARU PARK, CHESTER, PA

The North American Vehicle Rescue Association (NAVRA) will present Patient-Centered Extrication Training, taking place at Subaru Park, in Chester, PA, on May 24 to May 26, 2023. The training features a two-day workshop on skills and tactics as well as a Q&A with technical, medical, and command assessors. This will be followe d by a one-day mini rescue challenge. This will be the first time NAVRA training will take place in the Northeast, providing an opportunity for emergency responders up and down the East Coast to get involved in this impactful and fun event.

Subaru of America, Inc., ESI Equipment, Inc., Turtle Plastics and Fire News are proud to sponsor NAVRA’s Patient-Centered Extrication Training at Subaru Park. Extrication Teams involved in the training play a vital role in the operational objective and function as their agency’s liaison with the vast networking opportunities associated with these extrication challenges.

NAVRA’s experienced industry expert members work tirelessly to train all of our emergency responders with innovative techniques, advanced equipment, and authentic competitions — all of which are based on the NFPA 1670 guidelines and exceed the State of Florida for Fire Service Instructors standards. Fortunately, we’re able to do this by integrating corporate support into public service and subsidizing training costs.

This is a free event for all. You can participate in the traini ng and competition or just be an observer. This training seminar is focused on the Team Challenge Concept, and is ideal for potential extricat ion teams and departments that are interested in forming teams to l earn new skills and techniques from leaders in the field. What is le arned can be brought back and shared with their departments to improve

skills and decreases rescue times.

Teams will consist of six to eight people: a captain, medical t eam, and a technical team. All scenarios are run with live patients in the vehicles. The training will be three days, split as follows:

-Day 1: Educate participants on extrication options through multivehicle scenario using current model Subaru vehicles. An instructor and an assessor for each discipline will be with the team guiding and coaching. At the close of day one, the team will work a multi-vehicle scenario through completion.

-Day 2: Using learnings and scenarios from day one, teams will perform a live scenario without stops while the Instructor Team evaluates performance. The instructor team will hold a debrief with the team and cover important learning points in incident command, technical rescue and medical treatment.

-Day 3: The culmination of the event will be the Rescue Challenge. Each Team will perform a live scenario under Rescue Challenge conditions, without stops, while the instructor team evaluates performance. Multivehicle scenarios utilizing current model Subaru vehicles will provide top-level training that teams can bring back to their d epartments. Day 3 spectators are welcome to watch the challenge acti vities and enjoy food trucks, music and other local attractions. To sign up for this event or to lean more visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/n avratraining-seminar-tickets-568671591037.

NAVRAis a non-profit organization committed to preparing today’s rescuers for tomorrow.

For more information on North American Vehicle Rescue Association (NAVRA) visit www.navraus.org.

- Photo courtesy of Fairfax County FR

GovernorGlenn Youngkin Recognizes Recipients of 2022 Governor’s Fire Service Awards

Governor Glenn Youngkin announced the recipients of the 2022 Governor’s Fire Service Awards as part of the annual Virginia Fire Chiefs Association Expo and Symposium in Virginia Beach. Established in 2002, the Governor’s Fire Service Awards honor excellence in Virginia’s fire service and are facilitated by the Virginia Department of Fire Programs in collaboration with the Virginia Fire Services Board.

“I am proud to honor these remarkable fire service professionals,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “We celebrate and thank these first responders and support staff for their extraordinary contributions to the Commonwealth.”

The 2022 Governor’s Fire Service Awards recipients are as follows.

Virginia Fire Chief of the Year: Matt Tobia, City of Harrisonburg Fire Department.; and Barry Lotts of the Riverheads Volunteer Fire Department.

Virginia Firefighterof the Year: Meaghan Gruber of Loudoun County Fire-Rescue; and James Parker, Town of the Bedford Fire Department.

Excellence in Virginia Fire Services: Ryan McGill, of the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue. Excellence in Virginia Community Risk Reduction: Jessica Xenakis, of the Virginia Beach Fire Department.

Excellence in Virginia Fire Service Training: The Blue Ridge Fire & EMS Academy.

Civilian Excellence in Virginia Fire Service Support: Barbara Morrison, of the Virginia Beach Fire Department.

Private SectorExcellence in Virginia Fire Service Support: Steve Weissman, Firefighter Cancer Support Network.

Outstanding Fire Department Response: The Prince William County Department of Fire Rescue, the Dumfries-Triangle Volunteer Fire Department and the Occoquan Woodbridge Lorton Volunteer Fire Department.

- Submitted by William Merritt