Recently, Hopewell Fire and EMS was alerted about a chemical leak at the VA American Water plant.
See story on page 16
8 Displaced by Townhouse Fire
Prince William County Fire and Rescue System were dispatched to Earlham Court in Dale City for a reported townhouse fire.
See story on page 19
Virginia Fallen Firefighters &EMSMemorial Service
The Virginia Department of Fire Programs held the 2024 Virginia Fallen Firefighters and EMS Memorial Service on June 1.
See story on page 22
Recruit Class 24-1
Final Burns &Family Night
Families of the Prince William County Department of Fire and Rescue Recruit Class 24-1 had the opportunity to observe live training scenarios.
See story on page 29
Felipe Hernandez Appointed Fire &EMS Chief
City Manager James F. Parajon has appointed Felipe Hernandez, Jr., as Fire and Emergency Medical Services Chief for the City of Alexandria.
See story on page 32
Woodstocks Bowers Celebrates 50 Years
On May 6, 2024, the Woodstock Fire Department celebrated 50 years of service by volunteer Wayne Bowers.
See story on page 36
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Fire News National Award Winners Honored
Fire News is pleased to announce the winner of the 2023 Fire News National Award for Junior Member of the Year to Taylor Jackson. Taylor is a Junior Member of the Stafford County Fire Rescue and Stafford VFD and joined the summer before her junior year of high school. She achieved certifications in Firefighter I and II, Hazardous Materials Awareness and Operations, and Mayday Firefighter Down. She averages a total of 139 hours a month of services and has completed her firefighter task book.
The Fire News National Awards were recently announced and Taylor’s was one of 11 awards presented nationally. The nomination was submitted by Robert P. Eaby, Jr.
Photo left to right: Assistant Chief Laird Abbott, Stafford VFD; Taylor Jackson; County Fire Chief Jospeh A. Cardello, Stafford County Fire Rescue.
Fire News is also pleased to announce the winner of the 2023 Fire News National Award for Fire Leader of the Year to James Kelley. James is a Volunteer Chief at Falmouth Volunteer Fire Department and averages 263 hours of service a month. He is a skilled incident commander and under his leadership his fire department has expanded to include both ALS and BLS Emergency Medical Services. Chief Kelley embodies the volunteer spirit that will keep the tradition of volunteer rescue relevant for generations to come.
The Fire News National Awards were recently announced and Chief Kelley’s was one of 11 awards presented nationally. The nomination was submitted by Robert P. Eaby, Jr.
For information and an application for the 2024 Awards Program contact patti@firenews.com or 631-869-5636.
Looking Back – Fairfax Co. Celebrates 75 Years
On July 1, 1949, the first 10 career Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department (FCFRD) firefighters were hired at an annual salary of $2,500. The first to be hired was Samuel Redmond who was issued Badge 1 and assigned to Station 1 (McLean). Career firefighters were called “paid men” and served primarily as daytime apparatus drivers. The various chiefs of the volunteer departments would choose the personnel who would be hired by the county and ultimately work for their departments. This practice would continue for many years. As members of their respective volunteer departments these firefighters responded to
“after hours” calls from their homes.
The department has grown exponentially since its inception. Today, FCFRD is a career and volunteer organization with approximately 1,400 career firefighters, 170 civilians, and 370 operational volunteers making the FCFRD the largest fire department in the Commonwealth of Virginia and one of the best in the nation. We continue the traditions of our past with a commitment to service excellence and a vision to protect the lives, property, and environment of our community.
- Photos courtesy of Fairfax County FR
West Falls Church Apartment Fire
Fairfax County
operated at a two-alarm apartment fire in the
arrived to fire showing from the top floor. No injuries were reported and the cause was underinvestigation. - Submitted by Fairfax County FR
crews
2700 block of Hollywood Road in West Falls Church. Units
Stanley FD’s Gun Bash a Success
Members gathered togetherto celebrate the Stanley Fire Departments first evergun bash which was a huge success. It will become one of the departments biggest fundraisers.
-
Submitted by Chief Terry A. Pettit
Suspect Arrested in Iron Bridge Road Fires
Residential Structure Fire
Chesterfield Fire and EMS responded to Iron Bridge Road, nearKingsland Road fora reported brush fire. When fire crews arrived, they found two separate brush fires, one on each side of the road. At that time, additional resources were requested, including the Virginia Department of Forestry. Within about an hour, firefighters were able to have both fires under control. Crews then remained on scene foran extended period of time performing overhaul operations. Chesterfield Fire and EMS said between two and three acres burned. The Chesterfield County Police Department was able to track down a suspect in connection with the fires. Multiple witnesses saw a man in both fields; he was arrested by the Chesterfield Fire Marshal’s Office and was charged with two counts of burning woods. He was being held at the Chesterfield County Jail. Both fires remain under furtherinvestigation.
Fire crews responded to a residential structure fire in the first block of Hilke Drive recently. No injuries were reported.
- Photo courtesy of Lynn Cherry for Hampton FR
- Fire News photo by CFN Media
Opal Road
Barn Fire
On June 26, 2024, multiple area departments assisted Fauquier County with a barn fire on Opal Road.
- Photo courtesy of Little Fork FR
Chlorine Leak in Hopewell
Recently, Hopewell Fire and EMS was alerted about a chemical leak at the VAAmerican Waterplant on Industrial Street in the City of Hopewell. Crews responded with one engine, one medic unit, and a battalion chief. Once on location, a hazardous chemical leak within the plant was determined to have occurred. The battalion chief requested additional help from the CraterRegional Hazardous Materials Team, and that activation brought additional help from Prince George County Fire and EMS, Colonial Heights Fire, EMS and Emergency Management and Fort Gregg-Adams Fire Department. Once the Crater Regional Hazmat Team was set up, hazmat crews entered the plant area to locate and stop the leak. Numerous crews were rotated out due to the heat index. The situation was marked undercontrol at around 1330. Help with firefighterrehab was provided by Petersburg Fire Support 6 as well as the Metro Richmond Flying Squad to assist crews with additional needs due to the heat advisory in effect. These two units are staffed by all volunteerteam members, most of them retired from various fire departments who come in to assist us when needed.
- Photo courtesy of Hopewell Fire & EMS
Cumberland Co. House Fire
TractorTrailer Fire
On June 6, 2024, careerand volunteerunits from Albemarle County Fire Rescue (ACFR) were dispatched to Rockfish Gap Turnpike fora tractor-traileraccident and fire. Crews worked the incident fornearly six hours. The driverwas transported with non-life-threatening injuries, but a dog unfortunately perished in the fire.
- Submitted by Logan Bogert
At 1900 on May 28, 2024, Randolph District VolunteerFire Department, Farmville VolunteerFire Department and Cumberland VolunteerFire Department were toned out fora house fire on Plank Road with smoke coming out from the eaves. Aperson was returning home and saw the smoke and called 911. The person stopped at the house and saw it was gutted fora rebuild. He picked up a garden hose and was able to get wateron the flames from the outside, until Randolph District VolunteerFire Department arrived. They hit the fire with a 1-3/4 inch line and quickly stopped it. The fire had started in the basement and came up through the floor. We thanked the person forstopping and forhelping out.
- Fire News photo by Dan Pempel
8 Displaced by Townhouse Fire
On June 17, 2024, units of the Prince William County Fire and Rescue System were dispatched to the 14600 block of Earlham Court in Dale City fora reported townhouse fire. Crews arrived to fire showing from the second floor. All occupants were safely out of the building and the fire was quickly controlled, preventing extension to adjoining units. The fire home sustained extensive damage. The Red Cross assisted fouradults and four children displaced by the fire. The Fire Marshal’s Office determined the fire was ignited by eitheran unattended candle ora nearby electrical device.
- Submitted by Kim Hylander
TractorTrailer Fire on Route 29
Firefighters from the Lyn-Dan Heights VolunteerFire Department recently responded to a tractortrailerfire on May 28, 2024, on Route 29 south and Calahan Road in Campbell County.
- Submitted by Edwin Hall
Virginia Fallen Firefighters & EMS Memorial Service
The Virginia Department of Fire Programs (VDFP) held the 2024 Virginia Fallen Firefighters and EMS Memorial Service on June 1. The memorial service began at noon at the Richmond Raceway Complex in the Main Exhibition Hall.
Emergency response personnel, government officials and public safety members gathered to celebrate the courage and dedication of each honoree. The Memorial Service included a keynote address, a Virginia Fire Services Honor Guard procession, a musical performance, and a fire and EMS apparatus display from departments throughout the Commonwealth.
- Photos courtesy VDFP
10 Displaced in Brentwood Court Townhouse Fire
On July 5, 2024, units of the Prince William County Fire and Rescue system were dispatched to the 14400 block of Brentwood Court in Woodbridge fora callerreporting a townhouse fire. Crews arrived to fire showing in the front of the home extending into an adjoining unit. All occupants safely evacuated the residence priorto units arriving. Crews quickly extinguished the blaze and confronted the extension in the adjoining units. Three homes sustained damage, displacing seven adults and three children; Red Cross assisted those displaced. The Fire Marshal’s Office determined the cause of the fire was the improperdisposal of fireworks in a combustible trash receptacle stored inside a storage shed.
- Submitted by Kim Hylander
1 Deceased at Holland Road Apparent MVAand Fire
On June 8, 2024, Suffolk Fire and Rescue responded to the 4400 block of Holland Road fora reported powerline down and brush on fire. Emergency Communications dispatched the incident at 0254. Upon arrival, Engine 7 located a tractorhauling a shipping containeron fire. The tractorhad left the roadway and struck several trees and was well involved. The shipping containerhad overturned but was not on fire. The fire was placed undercontrol at 0330. Once the fire was out, firefighters found one person deceased in the cab of the tractor. Responding fire units included Battalion 1, Engine 7, Engine 4, Engine 1, Rescue 1, Medic 7, EMS 1, Safety 1, Tanker8, Tanker7, Carrsville Tanker20, and Fire Marshal 6. - Photo courtesy of Suffolk FR
1 Adult, 1 Infant in Henrico Hit-and-Run
In the early morning hours of July 5, 2024, the Henrico Fire Department responded to Nine Mile Road and WestoverAvenue fora reported vehicle versus pedestrian MVA. When firefighters arrived, they found two victims that were struck by a vehicle. Fire crews quickly transported one adult and one infant patient with life-threatening injuries to a local hospital. The vehicle involved in the crash fled the scene. Henrico Police Department reports that it appeared the adult victim was walking against traffic on the shoulderof the eastbound lanes of Nine Mile Road when the suspect vehicle, traveling in the right eastbound lane, struck the victim. Henrico Police Department is continuing to investigate this incident. - Fire News photo by CFN Media
3 Injured in Carrollton Pike MVA
On July 5, 2024, the Galax Fire Department responded foran MVAon Carrollton Pike. Arriving units found a two-carhead-on style MVAwith one patient unresponsive. Three patients were identified, bringing a Pipers Gap Rescue Squad unit and two Galax-Grayson EMS units to the scene. The crew of Rescue 4 quickly completed a side wall removal on one vehicle, completing extrication in seven minutes. All three patients were transported to Twin County Regional Healthcare (TCRH) with NLTinjuries. The Virginia State Police were investigating the accident. Thanks also to Carroll County Sheriff’s Office and Twin County E-911.
- Photo courtesy of Galax FD
4
Dead in Route
15 Head-on
Buckingham County EMS was called out fora head-on MVAon Route 15 and Old Mill Road at 1145 on May 28, 2024. Dilwynn VolunteerFire Department , Toga VolunteerFire Department and Buckingham EMS responded. Farmville VolunteerFire Department and Prince Edward Rescue were also called. A2012 midsize car, traveling south on Route 15, first hit a pickup and continued in the wrong lane southbound in the northbound lane hitting a compact carhead-on, forcing it off the road and overturning. There were two people in each carand they died at the scene The driverof the pickup was not uninjured.
- Fire News photo by Dan Pempel
On June 13, 2024, dispatch called Hampden-Sydney VFD and Farmville VFD to report a two-vehicle t-bone MVA with one person trapped. Route 15 south of town is a fourlane divided highway. Atruck was crossing Route 15 and making a left, the carwas northbound making a left into the divided road to Commerce Road westbound. The truck t-boned the cartrapping the car’s driver. The truck was moved back and chocked and the doorof the carwas cutoff and the driverwas medevac’d due to injuries.
- Fire News photo by Dan Pempel
Little Fork TLAR Handles Downed Horse Call
At approximately 0930 on July 5, 2024, the Little Fork Volunteer Technical Large Animal Rescue (TLAR) Team was requested to assist with a 18-year-old quarterhorse/Percheron cross that was down in the Atoka area. The ownerand vet had been working with “Mona” trying to get herup since discovering herdown at 0600. They discovered that the right rearleg was swollen. X-rays were taken during the examination and nothing appeared to be broken. They worked with herthroughout the early morning and decided to request TLAR assistance. Due to the extreme heat, a tent was raised above Mona. The vet was sure that if we could get herback on her hooves she would probably stand and it would allow additional Xray views fora complete exam. It was decided to use ourBecker Sling to lift herwith a tractor. Tactical assignments were made, hel-
mets were distributed and equipment was assigned. The Becker Sling was attached to Mona and the tractorwas rigged and placed into position. Mona was lifted without incident and was slowly lowered to where she could stand in the sling. She was left in the sling while the sedation wore off. Additional X-rays were taken with nothing found amiss. She was eventually lowered totally to the ground and then released. Mona began to eat and drink and appeared to be okay. It was a very humid 95 degrees. We retrieved ourequipment and returned to ourstation. We cleaned the equipment and were back in service at 1300. (Just in time to respond to a reported house fire). We would like to thank ourvolunteertechnicians who responded.
- Photos courtesy of Little Fork TLAR
Training
Campbell County FF1 Class Trains
Students in a recent Firefighter1 class for Campbell County.
- Submitted by Edwin Hall
Inter-Agency Wildland Fire Academy
Recently, at Longwood University, the Virginia Division of Forestry’s annual inter-agency wildland fire academy brought togetherhundreds of emergency responders from various federal, state and municipal departments to gain national-level training in wildland fire suppression and emergency incident management. - Photo courtesy Virginia Division of Forestry
Lyn-Dan
Heights Trains at Lynchburg Airport
Training
Suffolk Fire Rescue crews from Stations 1, 5, and 9 conducted waterrescue training with Zodiac 1, Zodiac 5 and Fire Boat 1.
- Photo courtesy of Suffolk FR
Lyn-Dan Heights VolunteerFire Department performed live fire training at Lynchburg Regional Airport.
- Submitted by Edwin Hall
County Fire Rescue’s Recruit School 23 and 24 Graduation Ceremony
Albemarle County Fire Rescue (ACFR) introduced its newest firefighters during a graduation ceremony. ACFR held two recruit schools fora total of 27 recruits, all of whom received training on emergency medical technician skills, firefightersurvival, carseat installation, emergency vehicle operations, and otherskills necessary forsuccess. Apinning ceremony was held on June 27, 2024, to celebrate the accomplishments of these new firefighters.
- Photos courtesy of ACFR
Farmville VFD & Town 2-Day Camp
Farmville VolunteerFire Department and the town of Farmville held a two-day camp recently in which part of the morning was spent at the firehouse. The kids were able to check out all the trucks and asked many questions. They also practiced stretching hose, using the bush line to put out the house fire, and watched firefighters using the carfire prop. They had a great time and some wanted to join the fire department. Chief Daniel Clark ran the program.
- Fire News photos by Dan Pempel
Recruit Class 24-1 Final Burns & Family Night
On June 28, 2024, families of the Prince William County Department of Fire and Rescue Recruit Class 24-1 had the opportunity to observe live training scenarios during the class’final burns. Laterthat evening, the recruits and family members enjoyed a prepared meal with the department’s training staff.
- Submitted by Kim Hylander
FCFRD at Fairfax’s Fourth of July Parade
Appomattox Sponsors EVOC Course
Appomattox VolunteerFire Department recently hosted an Emergency Vehicle Operations Course (EVOC) in Division 3. Fourteen students from seven different departments attended the course. This course was facilitated by Adjunct Instructors T. Harperand R. Stevens.
- Photo courtesy of Virginia Department of Fire Programs
Agroup of Fairfax County Fire Rescue Department (FCFRD) members kicked off theirholiday celebrations at the City of Fairfax’s Fourth of July parade. It was great spending the day with the community.
- Photo courtesy of Fairfax FR
2nd Annual FCSN CancerAwareness and Health Symposium
The Firefighter Cancer Support Network (FCSN) in partnership with the Spotsylvania County Fire, Rescue and Emergency Management hosted its 2nd Annual Virginia Cancer Awareness and Health Symposium drawing firefighters, medical professionals and community leaders from across Virginia. Held at Mary Washington Hospital on May 23, 2024, in Fredericksburg, the event underscored the alarming increase in cancer rates among firefighters, emphasized the need for awareness and preventive measures and, showcased the latest advancements in cancer prevention, early detection and treatment.
Firefighters are significantly more likely to develop cancer compared to the general population due to their exposure to toxic substances in the
line of duty. This stark reality formed the backdrop of the symposium. The symposium featured a series of compelling presentations from leading national researchers, and public health officials. Attendees also had the opportunity to participate in early cancer health screenings and engage with health officials from the area.
The success of the symposium underscored the importance of addressing firefighter cancer as a critical public health issue. We wish to recognize our sponsors: United Diagnostic Services, Rescue Intellitech, Redline Gear Cleaning and Lucid Diagnostics as well as Mary Washington Hospital and Spotsylvania Regional Medical Center who made this symposium a success. - Submitted by Steve Weissman
Stand Up a What …?
Recently, Suffolk Fire Rescue’s Technical Rescue Team, to include Battalion 2, Rescue 1, and Engine 2 responded to the Windsorarea to assist a veterinarian who requested the team help stand up a large animal (a camel). Suffolk Fire Rescue’s Technical Rescue
Team specializes in large animal rescue and had previously trained with the veterinarian.
- Photos courtesy of Suffolk FR
Alexandria Appoints Felipe Hernandez as Fire & EMS Chief
After a nationally competitive executive recruitment, City Manager James F. Parajon has appointed Felipe Hernandez, Jr., as Fire and Emergency Medical Services Chief for the City of Alexandria. The appointment became effective July 8, 2024. Chief Hernandez will be the first Latino to serve as permanent fire chief in Alexandria’s history.
Hernandez has spent more than 25 years in the fire service and was previously the Fire Chief in the City of Rochester (NY) where he oversaw a highly rated, accredited department of 482 sworn and 24 civilian personnel. Hernandez retired from Rochester in 2023 and most recently served as the Superintendent of the New York State Academy of Fire Science.
In Rochester, Hernandez began as a firefighter and progressed
through the ranks. He eventually held leadership positions in the department’s administrative, operations, training and emergency management divisions, with continuous focus on recruitment, volunteer support and professional development.
Hernandez is a Chief Fire Officer (CFO) designated by the Commission on Professional Credentialing and a National Emergency Medical Technician, with additional certifications in fire officer instruction, health, and incident safety. He has a Master’s Degree in Leadership from Nazareth College and a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and Management from State University of New YorkBrockport.
- Photos courtesy of Alexandria FD
Annual Virginia Hazardous Materials Response Specialists Conference
Join the Virginia Hazardous Materials Response Specialists for their Annual Hazmat Conference. The conference will take place September 17 - 20 at the Marriott City Center in Newport News, Virginia.
The conference has a re-designed education layout and features hands-on training, deep-dive learning and a variety of exhibitors to connect with.
Registration and exhibit sales are now open. Visit virginiahaz-
mat.org to learn more and register today.
The Virginia Hazardous Materials Response Specialists is the coordinated voice for hazardous materials response team members throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia. Association members exchange information on a state-wide basis, interface with national organizations, and develop a common inventory list of resources and promote resource sharing in the commonwealth.
- Submitted by Sara Stehle
Woodstock Open House
On May 25, 2024, the Woodstock Fire Department hosted local musician SpencerHatcherduring theirdepartment open house. Over200 people attended this event to learn about the Woodstock Fire Department and fire safety while enjoying the concert. Pictured here is Spencer Hatcherand the Ole Sons Band with WFD volunteers.
- Submitted by Zachary Hottel
Yorkshire VFD Donates $7Gs to Children’s National
The Yorkshire Volunteer Fire Department (YVFD) donated $7,000 to Children’s National Hospital from its 1st Annual Benefit Car Show. The contribution will support the hospital’s efforts to provide exceptional care and services to children in need.
The YVFD has a long-standing commitment to community service and safety. The donation reflects their dedication not only to emergency response but to the well-being of the community’s youngest members.
The funds will be used to enhance medical treatments, support innovative research, and improve the overall hospital experience for children and their families. The YVFD
believes the donation will make a significant impact, helping to ensure that every child receives the best possible care.
The Yorkshire Volunteer Fire Department is proud to support Children’s National Hospital and extend their heartfelt thanks to everyone who made this donation possible. Together, they are making a difference in the lives of children and families.
The YVFD is one of eight volunteer fire and rescue departments along with the Department of Fire and Rescue that comprise the Prince William County Fire and Rescue System.
- Submitted by Kim Hylander
NFPA’S R. DAVID PAULISON NAMED NEWBOARD CHAIRPERSON
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) completed the election of its Board of Directors at its Annual Meeting on June 17, 2024, which included the naming of a new chair, the election of two new members, and the reelection of a third member of the board.
R. David Paulison has been elected by the Board of Directors as the new chairperson. Paulison, who has been serving on the NFPA Board since 2015 and was the First Vice Chair, brings extensive experience in emergency management and fire safety to his new role.
He has had a distinguished career, previously serving as the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and as the U.S. Fire Administrator. He also spent 30 years with the Miami-Dade Fire and Rescue Department, from 1971 to 2001, rising through the ranks from firefighter to becoming Fire Chief in 1992.
Paulison takes over from Russell Leavitt, executive chairman of Telgian Holdings, Inc., who is completing his second two-year term as Board Chair.
The Board also elected a slate of officers that includes John Bonney as First Vice Chair, Roger Montembeault as Second Vice Chair, Lou Paulson as Secretary, Stacy Welch as Treasurer, Reggie Freeman as Assistant Treasurer, and Russell Leavitt as Immediate Past Chair. Kwame Cooper will continue in his current role as Assistant Secretary.In addition, NFPAmembers elected two new Board members, and a third was reelected to three-year terms on the Board. They are Christina Francis, P.E., FSFPE; David Hittinger; and Raj Arora, P.E.\
AFGAND SAFER REAUTHORIZATION BILL PASSES SENATE
On June18, 2024, the US Senate passed the Fire Grants and Safety Act (S.870), a bill to reauthorize the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant programs, as well as the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) through 2028. The legislation also extended the sunset date for AFG and SAFER to September 30, 2030. The bill has been sent to the President to be signed into law. Once signed, these programs will be protected for the next several years, ensuring that the fire and emergency services can continue to access vital federal support. On July 9, 2024, President Biden signed S.870 into law.
USFA50TH ANNIVERSARY
The United States Fire Administration (USFA) kicked-off its 50th anniversary celebration with a staff gathering at the National Fire Academy on July 11, 2024. During the campus event the 50th anniversary cake was cut by U.S. Fire Administrator Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell and Branch Chief Smiley White. Chief White is the longest serving USFAemployee and is still an active member of the Guardian Hose Company in Thurmont, Maryland, and an instructor with the Maryland Fire and Rescue Training Institute (MFRI). Additional anniversary events will occur throughout the year.
Suffolk Fire & Rescue Names Deputy Chief
Suffolk Fire Chief Michael Barakey announced that David P. Harrell was promoted to Deputy Fire Chief, effective July 7, 2024.
Chief Harrell started his fire service career in 1995, joining the Driver Volunteer Fire Department. He was among the first to enroll in the Southside Regional Fire Academy as a volunteer and graduated in 1996.
Following his graduation, Chief Harrell joined Suffolk Fire and Rescue in January 1997. He was promoted to Lieutenant in 2002, Captain in 2005, Battalion Chief in 2015, and Assistant Fire Chief in 2023.
Chief Harrell helped establish, and served as program
manager for, the Suffolk Fire and Rescue Technical Rescue Team and the Marine Rescue Team. He earned an Associate’s Degree in Fire Science, a Bachelor’s Degree in Multidisciplinary Studies, and is currently finishing his Master’s Degree in Public Administration. Chief Harrell was named Firefighter of the Year in 2013 and was also awarded the Fire Chief's Award of Excellence in 2017.
Chief Harrell is a graduate of the National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer Program and has earned the designation of Chief Fire Officer from the Center for Public Safety Excellence. - Photo provided
Woodstock’s Bowers Celebrates 50 Years Service
On May 6, 2024, the Woodstock Fire Department celebrated 50 years of service by volunteer Wayne Bowers. Wayne joined the department on May 6, 1974, and has served in almost every role within the department, including as Chief from 2007 to 2019. Aretired mechanic, Wayne has three children, one of whom also volunteers with ourdepartment.
- Submitted by Zachary Hottel
Way to Interrupt a Meal
While preparing fora prescribed burn in Accomack County, Division of Forestry (DOF) staff encountered a great-horned owlet feeding on the remains of a fox. Carefully avoiding its sharp talons, Area ForesterRobbie Lewis gently moved the owlet to safety. - Photo courtesy Virginia Division of Forestry
Field Fire Threatens Structures
3 Displaced in
Recently, the Henrico Fire Department responded to New Market Road and Messer Road fora brush fire. When firefighters arrived, they found heavy fire from a field, threatening multiple structures. At that time, additional resources were requested. Firefighters worked with the Virginia Department of Forestry and a local farmerto extinguish the fire. Henrico Fire Department said about 75 acres burned. Fortunately, crews were able to prevent the fire from extending to any homes. Roads in the area were closed forabout three hours. There were no injuries reported.
- Fire News photo by CFN Media
Winona Trail Blaze
Suffolk Fire and Rescue responded to the 4400 block of Winona Trail fora residential structure fire on July 21, 2024. Engine 6, Ladder6 and Medic 6 arrived at 0540 to find heavy fire showing from a two-car garage that was attached to a large two-story detached residential structure. Heavy fire had progressed up into the room overthe garage and entered the attic. Extensive fire and smoke damage occurred to the structure. Three adults are displaced and the American Red Cross was providing assistance. The Fire Marshal’s Office was investigating the cause and origin of the fire with Fire Marshal 5 leading the investigation. The fire was placed undercontrol at 0626. Suffolk Police provided scene and traffic control. No firefighters orcitizens were injured. Responding units included Battalion 1, Battalion 2, Engine 6, Engine 9, Engine 4, Engine 1, Engine 2, Ladder6, Rescue 1, Medic 6, EMS1, Safety 1, Rehab 6, Tanker9, Tanker1, Carrolton Tanker10, and Fire Marshal 5. Smithfield Fire backfilled SFR Station 9 and Carrsville Fire backfilled SFR Station 7.
- Photo courtesy of Suffolk FR
GovernorGlenn Youngkin Honors EMS Award Recipients
On May 20, 2024, Governor Glenn Youngkin recognized the Governor’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Award recipients from 2023 during a special EMS Week ceremony at the Governor’s mansion. The Governor’s EMS Awards honor the outstanding contributions of individuals, agencies, community organizations and businesses that provide or help support emergency medical care in Virginia. These awards are the highest honor an EMS provider or organization can receive at the state level, and they are administered by the Virginia Department of Health’s (VDH) Office of Emergency Medical Services. Governor Youngkin also proclaimed EMS Week in Virginia, May 19 to 25.
“During EMS Week, I had the honor of recognizing the 2023 Governor’s EMS Award recipients and thanked them for their incredible contributions to Virginia’s EMS System,” said Governor Youngkin. “Virginia’s EMS providers rush in to save Virginians who are sick or injured by providing the best pre-hospital care, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Thank you for your heroic efforts and for protecting the well-being of all Virginians.”
Congratulations to the 2023 Governor’s EMS Award recipients:
The Governor’s EMS Award for Excellence in EMS - William ‘Bill’Akers, Jr., Southwest Virginia Paramedic Program, Lebanon Lifesaving Crew.
The Governor’s EMS Award for Outstanding Contribution to Leadership in EMS (The Kent J. Weber Trophy) - Beverly G. Harris, VCU Health System Critical Care Transport Network/LifeEvac.
The Governor’s EMS Award for Physician with Outstanding Contribution to EMS (The Frank M. Yeiser Trophy) - Benjamin D. Nicholson, M.D., VCU Health Department of Emergency Medicine & LifeEvac.
The Governor’s EMS Award for Nurse with Outstanding Contribution to EMS - Matthew J. Jensen, R.N., VCU Health System Critical Care Transport Network/LifeEvac.
The Governor’s EMS Award for Outstanding EMS Prehospital EducatorMichael Garnett, New River Valley Training Center.
The Governor’s EMS Award for Outstanding EMS Prehospital Provider - John “Jack” Kelley, Lake of the Woods Fire and Rescue.
The Governor’s EMS Award for Outstanding Contribution to EMS Health and Safety - James City County Fire Department.
CarFire on Route 94
Galax Fire Department crews responded fora vehicle fire on Route 94 between Highway 58 and Nuckolls Curve Road. Arriving units found a small passengervehicle fully involved with a brush fire beginning as a result. Rescue 4 pulled one line and made quick work of the job. All units cleared in 30 minutes. Thanks to Galax Grayson EMS, Virginia State Police and Twin County E-911 fortheirassistance.
- Photo courtesy of Galax FD
The Governor’s EMS Award for Outstanding Contribution to EMS for Children - Jennifer S. Farmer, Lakeside Volunteer Rescue Squad.
The Governor’s EMS Award for Outstanding EMS Agency - James City County Fire Department.
The Governor’s EMS Award for Outstanding Contribution to EMS Telecommunication Amanda Echevarria, Chesapeake Police Department.
The Governor’s EMS Award for Outstanding Contribution to EMS Emergency Preparedness and Response (The James A. Nogle, Jr. Trophy) - City of Alexandria Community Emergency Response Team.
The Governor’s EMS Award for Innovation Excellence in EMS - Northern Virginia Emergency Response System.
An additional recognition is presented in conjunction with these awards for the outstanding contributions to EMS by a high school senior. This is a scholarship award provided by the Virginia Office of EMS in collaboration with the State EMS Advisory Board. The Governor’s EMS Award for Outstanding Contribution to EMS by a High School Senior (The Dr. Carol Gilbert $5,000 Scholarship)Kelsey Cone, Cave Spring Rescue Squad
Sonora Drive Fire
Hampton Fire and Rescue along with the Hampton Police Division, Animal Control (HART), Dominion Virginia Power, Virginia Natural Gas, and the Newport News Fire Department responded to a residential structure fire in the 400 block of Sonora Drive recently. The first arriving units reported heavy black smoke visible in the area priorto reaching the incident address. One civilian was transported to a local hospital with a minorinjury.
