On March 29, 2026, Station 83 Millsboro, Station 73 Dagsboro and Station 80 Indian River responded to a water rescue with boaters overboard in Millsboro Pond. - Submitted by Larry Gum
MVC on West Summit Avenue
Around 1330, on January 9, 2026, Station 17 was alerted for an MVA in the 500 block of West Summit Avenue. Engine, Squad and B17 all responded. B17 arrived to find a single-vehicle rollover with entrapment. Engine and Squad 17 stabilized, removed two doors and the trapped occupant. The patient was turned over to B17 and New Castle County Paramedics for transport.
- Submitted by Charles Hayes
1 Injured in MVA on So. Dupont Highway
On March 29, 2026, at 1742 hours, the Harrington and Farmington fire companies, along with Kent County EMS and Delaware State Police Aviation, were dispatched to an MVA with entrapment on South Dupont Highway, south of the Fairgrounds. Units arrived on scene and found an SUV had left the roadway, struck a tree and flipped on its side. Crews also confirmed one patient was trapped in the vehicle. Crews stabilized the vehicle and extricated the subject in approximately 10 minutes. The injured subject was treated and packaged by EMS crews and transported to a local hospital for treatment. DSP Aviation units (Trooper 2 and Trooper 4) were cancelled prior to arrival. The scene was turned over to the Delaware State Police for further investigation.
- Submitted by Kenny Brode
6 Transported from MVA in Odessa
On March 20, 2026, New Castle County Paramedics and multiple partner agencies responded to a serious two-vehicle collision with reported entrapment in the area of Old State Road and Old Corbit Road in Odessa. A total of six patients were transported to local trauma centers for evaluation and treatment.
- Submitted by Abigail Haas
On March 9, 2026, Station 83 Millsboro responded to a multi-vehicle MVA with reported entrapment. - Submitted by Larry Gum
2 Transported from I-95 / I-295 MVA
On March 10, 2026, at 1742 hours, companies were alerted for an MVA with entrapment in the area of I-95 and I-295. Rescue Engine 22 arrived and confirmed one trapped. Along with Squad 17, they extricated one patient who was transported by Trooper 4 to a trauma center. Ambulance B-22 also transported a second patient to the trauma Ccnter. The accident was under investigation by the Delaware State Police.
- Submitted by Charles Hayes
3 Patients Transported from Llangollen Blvd MVA
On April 29, 2026, the New Castle County Paramedics, Wilmington Manor Fire Company, and several mutual aid agencies were dispatched to the intersection of South Dupont Highway and Llangollen Boulevard for a serious MVA involving a truck and an SUV. Upon arrival, crews encountered significant damage to both vehicles, with two occupants trapped inside the SUV. Rescue personnel initiated extrication efforts while EMS providers began patient care. Three patients were transported to area hospitals. New Castle County medical directors responded to the incident and assisted with the treatment of one critically injured patient.
- Submitted by Abigail Haas
Delaware Well Represented at CFSI
Members of the Delaware Fire Service attended CFSI’s Annual National Fire and Emergency Services Symposium and Dinner in March. Highlights included the presentation of a $36,000 check to CFSI from the DVFA and meetings with Senator Chris Coons, Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester and Congressperson Sarah McBride. DVFA officers and the Fire Marshal joined the NVFC Director to witness The Changing of the Guard at Arlington’s Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the NVFC wreath-laying ceremony at the site.
- Submitted by Norman “Jay” Jones
Up Close and Personal
Harrington Fire Company members pose after a residential fire in the Friendship Village Apartments on March 15, 2026.
- Submitted by Kenny Brode
Selbyville Volunteer Fire Company Station 88 crew after assisting at the Pepper Road fire on March 13, 2026.
- Submitted by Brady Pepper
Members of the Harrington Fire Company after assisting Houston Fire Company with a working house fire.
- Submitted by Kenny Brode
Members of the Harrington Fire Company after assisting Houston Fire Company with a working house fire.
- Submitted by Kenny Brode
Dagsboro and Station 77 firefighters at a house fire in the Plantation Lakes development on March 30, 2026.
- Submitted by Larry Gum
An Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder Firefighter working at the scene of an MVA with multiple patients on Pulaski Highway in Glasgow on January 16, 2026.
- Submitted by Lawrence Tan Station 83 Millsboro, Station 73
DELAWARE STATE FIRE SCHOOL
DSFS Hosts First SkillsUSA Firefighting Skills Challenge
The Delaware State Fire School (DSFS) recently hosted the first Delaware SkillsUSA Firefighting Competition, where students from Delcastle Technical High School and Sussex Technical High School competed for the honor of representing Delaware at the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference in Atlanta, GA.
During the competition, students demonstrated their firefighting knowledge and abilities through a series of skill-based events, including rapid PPE donning, knot tying, forcible entry, and navigating an entanglement prop.
DeSFS instructors proudly served as judges for the event, evaluating each competitor’s performance, technique, and safety throughout the challenge.
Congratulations to each of the competitors and their instructors for demonstrating a high caliber of skill, professionalism, and dedication to the fire service. Best of luck as they move on to represent Delaware at the national competition in Atlanta! - Submitted by Jason McCabe
DELAWARE STATE FIRE SCHOOL
DSFS FF I-II Spring 2026 Academy is Heating Up!
Members attending the Spring 2026 Firefighter I-II Academy are making great progress as they continue to build both their knowledge and hands-on skills. Over the past several sessions, students have been sharpening their abilities in PPEs, hazardous materials response, fire extinguishers, knot tying, and many other essential firefighter skills. The dedication and effort being shown by these students is outstanding, and it’s clear they are committed to becoming strong members of the Delaware fire service.
- Submitted by Jason McCabe
Clayton Hones Small Power Tool Skills Training
Training is the backbone of any organization, and in the fire service it is life saving. Firefighters must train in many different areas to be proficient and ready to respond even if that training is not flashy or glamorous. The fire service must be adaptable. On March 16, 2026, Clayton was to train at the Delaware State Fire School on the Phase 5 burn simulator. With impending bad weather, officers decided to keep it close to home and train at the station. Members trained in the use of small power tools like a chain saw, EMS assist operations, and the use of rescue struts. “Getting hands on training is the best kind,” stated Deputy Tim Conrad, “Working with the tools you use the least builds your confidence when needed in the field.” Thank you to the many members who came out and for the officers who conducted the training.
- Submitted by Kevin L. Wilson PIO, Clayton FC; photo courtesy of Alison D. Pedigo
Millsboro
Station 83 Trains
On March 25, 2026,
station.
-
Millsboro Station 83 held their monthly drill night at the
Submitted by Larry Gum
On January 31, 2026, Station 83 Millsboro and Station 86 Rehoboth practiced Ice Water Rescue on Ingrams Pond. - Submitted by Larry Gum
Ice Rescue Training
Lewes, Rehoboth Train Together
On April 3, 2026, the Lewes Fire Department joined with the Rehoboth Beach Fire Department for training and discussions of trash truck fires, trash truck rescue, and heavy equipment rescue. - Submitted by Jason Reeder, Sr.; photos courtesy of Norman Stein, Lewes FD
Clayton & Citizens Hose Natural Gas Events
Training
On April 20, 2026, the Clayton Fire Company and the Citizens’ Hose Company of Smyrna trained together at the Delaware State Fire School on how to handle natural gas fires. Propane and natural gas are the two most common ways we heat homes in our districts and are used in commercial and other types of facilities. Both companies respond to many gas leaks or gas smell emergencies during the year. It is rare to have an actual fire with these gases but, when you do, timing and procedure are critical in getting these fires under control. Deputy Chief Tim Conrad of the Clayton Fire Company stressed the value of training in these types of situations and training with companies you respond with is key in a successful operation. A total of 25 members from the two companies received the training. - Submitted by Kevin L. Wilson PIO, Clayton FC; photos courtesy of Alison D. Pedigo
Millsboro Monthly Training
Each month, the Millsboro Fire Company holds training to work on refreshing skills on various topics. April’s training covered engine company operations with a specific focus on attack lines being utilized from each of our engines. In a time where many volunteer companies are struggling to find and retain members, Millsboro is extremely fortunate to have a strong volunteer base with 32 members coming out to participate in this training. Thank you to all who participated! - Submitted by Ronald O’Neal
NCCEMS March Madness Won by EMS Platoon 2
The NCCEMS Division hosted its annual “March Madness Fitness Challenge,” a friendly competition between platoons that promotes physical activity and time spent outdoors, throughout March. Participants earn points for various activities, including those involving immediate family members. Two 5Ks were hosted at the
Wilmington Riverfront, also encouraging teamwork and camaraderie. Congratulations to EMS Platoon 2 for winning the “March Madness” title for the second consecutive year. This initiative is just one of the many ways NCCEMS supports the physical and mental resiliency of its paramedics. - Submitted by Abigail Haas
Med Coverage for Delaware Marathon
On April 19, 2026, the New Castle County Paramedics joined multiple partner agencies to provide medical support for the Delaware Marathon and Running Festival. The event featured 5K, 10K, half marathon, and full marathon races, drawing participants from 48 states and countries around the world. The course spanned the City of Wilmington and extended into the City of New Castle. Medical
coverage included traditional ambulances, UTV-style quickresponse units, and both ALS and BLS bike teams positioned throughout the course. ALS and BLS Medical Directors were also on site, providing physician oversight and real-time medical control support for responding crews.
- Submitted by Abigail Haas
That’s Delivery Plural!
NCC*EMS
Morgyn Netsch
Promoted to Paramedic First Class
Corporal Miguel Cruz Gets VFW Award
- Submitted by Abigail Haas
On April 13, 2026, New Castle County Paramedics responded with the Claymont Fire Company for a maternity call. EMTs from Claymont, along with Senior Sergeant Kier, Paramedic First Class Baker, Paramedic Hinckley, and Paramedic Alyssa Williams, assisted in the delivery of not one, but two babies! Field deliveries are rare for EMS providers, making this event especially notable. The successful delivery of twins highlights the skill, teamwork and dedication of the crews on scene. Great work by all involved!
Morgyn T. Netsch has been promoted to Paramedic First Class. PFC Netsch is a fouryear veteran of the EMS Division. She has previously served as an EMT for Christiana Fire Company, Elsmere Fire Company, and Delaware City Fire Company. PFC Netsch obtained her paramedic certification in 2021, from the Good Fellowship Ambulance & EMS Training Institute, in West Chester, PA. She is currently assigned to field operations on EMS Platoon 4 at Paramedic Station 1, serving the City of Wilmington and Route 9 corridor. PFC Netsch is a high school mentor and background investigator for the EMS Division.
- Submitted by Abigail Haas
On April 19, 2026, the Sergeant William Lloyd Nelson VFW Post 3792 in Middletown, held its annual Public Servant Award Ceremony and presented New Castle County Paramedic Corporal Miguel C. Cruz with the EMS Public Servant Award for both the local post and State of Delaware VFW posts. NCCEMS congratulates Corporal Cruz on receiving this prestigious award and thanks, the Sergeant William Lloyd Nelson VFW Post 3792 in Middletown for taking the time to recognize Corporal Cruz’s accomplishments. - Submitted by Abilgail Haas
Mark Plumley Promoted to Paramedic
Casting with Cops
Sergeant Mark A. Plumley (ALS24) has been promoted to Paramedic Sergeant. Sergeant Plumley is a nine-year veteran of the EMS Division, obtaining his paramedic certification from the Good Fellowship Ambulance and EMS Training Institute, in West Chester, PA. Prior to his promotion, Sergeant Plumley was assigned to Field Operations on Platoon 4, at Medic 7, serving the Prices Corner, Elsmere, Newport, Belvedere, and Hockessin areas. He has previously served as a Field Training Officer and is currently a CPR instructor and member of the New Castle County Paramedic Technical Rescue Team, holding multiple rescue technician level certifications. Sergeant Plumley will be assigned to field operations as a Shift Supervisor on EMS Platoon 2.
- Submitted by Abigail Haas
On May 2, 2026, the New Castle County EMS Bike Team assisted the Division of Police during its annual ‘Casting with Cops’ event at Glasgow Park. Paramedic First Class Shannon Taylor assisted several of the local residents with baiting their hooks and reeling in their catch.
- Submitted by Abigail Haas
National Honor Guard “Boot Camp”
Sergeant Christopher Schad and Paramedic First Class
Matthew Casson successfully completed the National Honor Guard training “Boot Camp,” held April 16 to 20, 2026, in Mechanicsburg, PA. The fiveday intensive program focuses on basic drill and ceremonial movements in which Honor Guard personnel may help coordinate. Topics covered throughout the program included church and casket protocol, developing departmental SOPs for honor guards, public safety officer benefits, flag etiquette, honor guard commander leadership training, various types of funeral services, and honor guard history and traditions. The final testing evolution involved a mock funeral in which participants planned and coordinated events at the funeral home, church, and cemetery.
- Submitted by Abigail Haas
NCCEMS Congratulates Mark A. Ciance, Jr. on Promotion to Cpl.
NCCEMS congratulates Mark A. Ciance, Jr., on his recent promotion to Paramedic Corporal. Corporal Ciance is a seven-year veteran paramedic who previously served with the US Marine Corps before attending Northern Virginia Community College and earning an associate of Applied Science degree while also completing his paramedic certification training. He is currently assigned to field operations on EMS Platoon 3 at Paramedic Station 8 in the City of Wilmington. - Submitted by Abigail Haas
Field Training Officer Course
On April 20 and 21, 2026, New Castle County EMS hosted a twoday Field Training Officer (FTO) Initial Training program. The 12hour CEU-approved class serves as the initial FTO training for all New Castle County Paramedics who serve in the FTO capacity. The spring class was opened to our neighboring partners and was attended by 18 students. Attendees in the spring program were from
Paramedic Christian T. Juliana Badged
Christian T. Juliana successfully completed the Delaware Paramedic field certification process, receiving his badge and paramedic insignia from Chief Logemann, at EMS Headquarters on March 27, 2026. Paramedic Juliana is a recent graduate of the 6th NCC*EMS Paramedic Academy, obtaining his paramedic certification from Good Fellowship Ambulance and EMS Training Institute, in West Chester, PA. Prior to the 6th Academy, Paramedic Juliana worked as a Firefighter/EMT in Fairfax County, Virginia. Paramedic Juliana is assigned to EMS Platoon 2, in field operations.
- Submitted by Abigail Haas
Kent County Department of Public Safety, Delaware State Police Aviation Section, Cecil County EMS, Wilmington Fire Department, Brandywine Hundred Fire Company and Good Will Fire Company of New Castle. We are looking forward to hosting another FTO training class in fall of 2026. - Submitted by Abigail Haas
Paramedic Joseph Hurd-McGrew Badged
Joseph R. Hurd-McGrew successfully completed the Delaware Paramedic field certification process, receiving his badge and paramedic insignia from Chief Logemann, at EMS Headquarters on March 11, 2026. Paramedic Hurd-McGrew is a 2021 graduate from Houston Community College where he received his National Registry Paramedic certification. Prior to being a New Castle County, Paramedic Hurd-McGrew was employed by Fort Bend County EMS, in Fort Bend, TX. Paramedic Hurd-McGrew is assigned to EMS Platoon 1. - Submitted by Abigail Haas
NCC*EMS Paramedic First Class Michael P. O’Shaughnessy Retires
On March 18, 2026, Paramedic First Class O’Shaughnessy was met with a ceremonial “walk-out” following his final day, after 30 years as a paramedic with New Castle County.
Co-workers, friends, family, first responders, and retirees gathered at Paramedic Station 9/Aetna Fire Station 8 to greet him as he walked out of the station for the final time. A proclamation from New Castle County Executive Marcus Henry was presented to PFC O’Shaughnessy declaring March 18, 2026, as “Paramedic First Class Michael P. O’Shaughnessy Day” in New Castle County. Presentations were made from the EMS Division, the EMS Power Shift Platoon, Councilman Brandon Toole on behalf of County Council, New Castle County Director of Public Safety, and the Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder Company.
Paramedic First Class O’Shaughnessy was hired on March 18, 1996, graduating from the Medical Center of Delaware’s paramedic program in 1998. During his career he was assigned to Medic 3 in the Newark and Pike Creek areas, Medic 6 in the Glasgow Area, and Medic 9 in the City of Newark. He was promoted to the rank of Paramedic First Class on March 5, 2004.
During his tenure with New Castle County, PFC O’Shaughnessy has
been a Vial of L.I.F.E. program presenter, a member of the grid committee, EMS Division focus group member, an original member of the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Survivor Reunion Committee, EMD committee, and has assisted with the EMS Memorial Bike ride from Roanoke, Virginia. He has been recognized for numerous accomplishments throughout his career in New Castle County, including one letter of achievement, one New Castle County Executive Award, two distinguished unit citations, two unit letters of commendation, eight pre-hospital sudden cardiac arrest save citations, and over 30 complementary letters of appreciation from the public. When he was assigned to Paramedic Station 3, he was recognized for arriving on the scene of a structure fire and working with a local ambulance crew in successfully pulling a victim from a residence that was on fire. The incident resulted in PFC O’Shaughnessy receiving a New Castle County Executive Award.
PFC O’Shaughnessy attended Delaware Technical and Community College where he completed courses in the Safety Management program.
Mike, congratulations on 30 years of service and your well-deserved retirement! - Submitted by Abigail Haas
Snowfall Makes for a Pretty Picture
C93 in front of the Sussex County Courthouse just as a blizzard was starting on February 23, 2026.
- Submitted by Stephen Chapis
Chorman Airport Visit
Members of the Bridgeville Fire Company recently visited Chorman Airport in Greenwood. During the tour, General Manager Ricky Watkins showed us the many different aircraft headquartered at the airport especially those used for aerial application services. He also reviewed these plane’s structural designs as they relate to rescue procedures. The plane shown in the background is a 1943 Texan T6 polished aluminum military aircraft that was retired in 1954.
- Submitted by Bob Kutch
Clayton Junior Koleby Davis Named MoM
The members and officers of the Clayton Fire Company would like to congratulate junior member Koleby Davis on being named the February Clayton Fire Company Member of the Month (MoM) on March 10, 2026. Koley is the son of past-Chief Robert Davis and the grandson of pastChief David J. Mast. Koleby attended 37 fire calls, one fundraising event, 13 miscellaneous functions, two drills, and a company meeting for a total of 57 points for the month and 161 for the year. To be active you must attain 100 points for the year. Koleby was also voted into the company as a regular member when he turns 18 in April.
- Submitted by Kevin L. Wilson PIO
Mike Mitchell Receives 50-Year Service Award
On March 28, 2026, Station 83 Millsboro held their annual banquet and awards night. Life member Mike Mitchell received his 50-year service award. He is pictured with his son and member PJ Mitchell.
- Submitted by Larry Gum
Millsboro Fire Company Awards Banquet
The Millsboro Fire Company proudly acknowledged a number of its members at their annual banquet, held on March 28, 2026. In addition to EMS, Service and Top 10 Responder awards, the following members received recognition during the event:
Most Improved Junior Member – Jack Magee; Junior of the Year –Jackson Hagy; Firefighter of the Year – Matt Jensen; and Lifetime Fireman of the Year – Robert Thielemann. Also, Life Member Mike Mitchell received resolutions from Senator
Gerald Hocker and Representative Rich Collins congratulating him for his 50 years of service. Retiring Representative Collins was presented with his Honorary Member award in recognition for his years of service to the State of Delaware, the citizens of the 41st District, and to the Millsboro Fire Company. As well, the Ladies Auxiliary presented the Fire Company with a $10,000 donation resulting from their tireless work throughout the year.
- Submitted by Ronald O’Neal
AHHLC Presents Micah Williams with Heroism Award
Representatives from the Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder Company (AHHLC) visited the Etta J. Wilson Elementary School to recognize Micah Williams for his courageous actions responding to a fire in his home last November. AHHLC officials commended him for his bravery and preventing a bad situation from getting worse.
On the evening of November 21, 2025, the AHHLC was dispatched to a residential structure fire with injuries in the unit block of Martine Court in the Drummond Ridge Townhouses. Fire department personnel arrived to find smoke conditions inside the townhouse with evidence of an extinguished fire in the dining room. An investigation revealed that a pan had caught fire in the kitchen. The burning pan was moved to the dining room where a chair also caught fire. It was later determined that 11-year-old Micah had extinguished the blaze with a fire extinguisher while firefighters were en route to his home.
Micah was treated at the scene for smoke inhalation. His mother, Tenisha Tirado was treated at the scene for burns and smoke inhalation. Both were transported by ambulance and accompanied by county paramedics to the Christiana Hospital Emergency Department.
Micah was presented with an award for heroism by Chief John Guzzo of the AHHLC that cited his extraordinary act of courage during an emergency. “Today we recognize someone who showed courage, quick thinking, and responsibility during a real emergency,” said Chief Guzzo. “Micah’s actions remind us that staying calm, thinking clearly, and acting responsibly really matters.”
The AHHLC commendation was accompanied by some personal items, including a Newark Fire winter hat, a fire department baseball cap, a fire company patch and challenge coin. “We hope he considers giving us a call to become a member of the fire company when he’s a little older,” said Chief Guzzo. - Submitted by Lawrence Tan
Annual Awards Banquet
The Five Points Fire Company celebrated 105 years of service and the Five Points Ladies Auxiliary celebrated 99 years on February 7, 2026. This year’s banquet was a powerful reminder of what dedication, tradition, and teamwork looks like in action. For 105 years, this company has stood side-by-side with our community answering calls, supporting neighbors, and carrying forward a legacy built on courage and commitment.
We were proud to honor this year’s award recipients whose hard work, leadership, and selfless service set the standard for what it means to serve. Each recognition reflected countless hours of training, sacrifice, and heart.
Lynch for his hard work and leadership, along with recognizing his 35 years of service to the company; Captain Tyler Boroi recognized for
for his actions at a house fire in October of 2024.
Some notable awards and recognition include: Chief Tom Manley voted by his peers as member of the year; Assistant Chief Tim
Tribute
his hard work and leadership; Firefighter Brandon Holdan received the Medal of Valor
To the dedicated members past and present who continue to give their time, energy and strength to protect others: thank you. This milestone belongs to every person who has worn the uniform, responded to the alarm, and helped shape the family and culture that this firehouse has become.
Here’s to 105 years of service, tradition, and community pride and many more to come.
We’d also like to thank our local community leaders who were in attendance: New Castle County Executive Marcus Henry, County Council President Monique Johns and Councilman Brandon Toole.
- Submitted by Charles Hayes
Holloway Terrace’s
Douglas Whalen, Sr.
The officers and members of the Holloway Terrace Volunteer Fire Company Number 1, regretfully share news of the untimely passing of 50-year member, Douglas Whalen, Sr., who died April 9, 2026, at the age of 66.
Doug was born in Wilmington to the late Clyde J, Sr. and Emma Whalen and spent his career at the Laidlaw Corporation. He was known for his kindness, a huge heart and a happy-golucky demeanor, and could be seen at the fire station, company meetings, county meetings and many other functions.
Doug comes from a family of service that is the fabric of the Holloway Terrace Volunteer Fire Company. Douggie was preceded in death by his brothers Clyde J. and Melvin E. Whalen. He is survived by his son Douglas L. Whalen, Jr. (Alexis), grandson Douglas L. ‘Tripp’ Whalen III, granddaughter Delaney A. Whalen, brother Wayne C. Whalen, Sr. (Cecilia), sisters Linda L. Whalen and Beverly A. Wright.
Doug was laid to rest at Gracelawn Memorial Park in New Castle.
- Submitted by Randy Roberts
AHHLC
2 Harrington Members Honored for 20 Years Service
On April 6, 2026, at the regular company meeting of the Harrington Fire Company, Member Rob Kimmey and John Phillips were presented with their Honorary Lifetime Membership Awards after completing 20 years of active service. This award is normally presented at our awards banquet in January, but these two members were unable to attend the banquet. Both members were presented their certificates by President Robbie Brode. The officers and members of the company would like to thank John and Rob for their many years of dedication to the company. - Submitted by Kenny Brode
Honors 2 50-Year Men
Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder Company (AHHLC) recently recognized two Life Members for achieving 50 years of service to the organization.
Life Member Dennis Cataldi (center) is a graduate of Newark High School and was also a member of the Christiana Fire Company. He participated in the Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder Company Honor Guard. He also participated in the refurbishment of Ole Bessie,the 1926 Seagrave that served Aetna for decades and was dedicated to deceased members of the company at the Centennial Anniversary in 1988.
Life Member William Butterworth (left) is also a graduate of Newark High School. He has been an operator of all apparatus, including tiller of the tractor-drawn aerial and has served as a fire line officer at every level including Engine Captain, Assistant Chief and Deputy Chief. He was appointed interim Acting Chief by the President when the elected Chief was unavailable for an extended period.
- Submitted by Lawrence Tan
FIRSTNET HELPS HYANNIS WITH SUMMER POPULATION CHALLENGE
The Hyannis Fire Department serves 18,000 year-round residents, but the population soars to 100,000 in the summer. This presents a unique challenge.
The department responds to about 8,000 incidents in Barnstable, Cape Cod, Lewis Bay, and Hyannis Harbor. Their coverage area includes the largest hospital on the Cape, an airport, a busy downtown, and a harbor. Seventy firefighters provide fire response, ALS, and technical rescues using fireboats and a dive team. Needing to evolve they were early adapters of FirstNet®, Built with AT&T.
FirstNet®, Built with AT&T, is the nationwide, high-speed wireless network designed to provide first responders with secure, reliable
communications. First responders get always-on priority and pre-emption for calls, texts and data. FirstNet connects Hyannis firefighters across all their devices including cell phones, modems, routers, and vehicle-mounted equipment.
FirstNet technology is robust, and so is its customer service. “The service is always excellent and they are always responsive. They’re always able to get the answers we need and help us solve any problem,” Hyannis Fire Department Chief Peter Burke said. “We recommend it to all public safety agencies and users. We know that our FirstNet devices are always going to work without suffering from the lag time that other devices may suffer from.”
NFPA TO HOST ANNUAL CONFERENCE & EXPO IN LAS VEGAS ON JUNE 22-24, 2026
The National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) will host its annual Conference & Expo at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas on June 22 to -24, 2026. This comprehensive event brings together thousands of the industry’s leading professionals who will attend more than 130 educational sessions addressing the latest issues, challenges and trends in the world of fire, electrical, and life safety, including code compliance, emergency preparedness and response, emerging technologies, global safety issues, public education, building and construction safety, fire protection systems, industrial hazards, electrical safety, and more.
The NFPA Expo will feature more than 420 exhibitors, showcasing the latest products and services available to help meet and maintain compliance with prevailing codes and standards in the design, construction and operation of buildings and facilities of every kind.
risk reduction. The Spotlight on Latin America is a Spanish language program with targeted sessions covering current industry trends impacting Latin America.
Dan Chuparkoff, one of the world’s leading experts on AI, innovation, and the future of work, will be the keynote speaker at the conference’s opening general session. Sharing his skill as an AIeducator combined with his formula for harnessing the power of innovation, Dan helps audiences escape disruption to find growth and success.
Attendees will have access to three NFPA Specialty Theaters as well. The Facility Manager Theater, The Responder Theater and the Firefighter Cancer Cohort Study.
This year’s NFPA Spotlight on Public Education (SOPE) is a three-day program exclusively for individuals in the public education field, covering a wide range of public health topics and the powerful impact of community
The NFPA Technical Meeting, which allows NFPA members and the public to express positions through debate on each certified amending motion (CAM), is scheduled to take place on June 25-26. The NFPA Standards to be presented for action at the 2026 Technical Meeting are those with amending motions submitted to NFPA in advance of the meeting and certified by the Motions Committee of the Standards Council. Anyone who has been a continuously active member of the association since December 27, 2025 and is registered for the 2026 Tech Session, will be eligible to vote on all CAMs.
For this release and other announcements about NFPA initiatives, research and resources, please visit the NFPA press room.
Tribute
Delaware State Police
CPL/1 Matthew T. Snook: LODD
On January 5, 2026, Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder Company joined the public safety community and representatives from across the United States in rendering a final salute to Delaware State Police CPL/1 Matthew T. Snook who died in the line of duty.
- Fire News photo by Lawrence Tan
Rotary Donation to AHHLC
Representative of the Newark Star Rotary Club stopped by Fire Station 9 on Academy Street to present their donation to Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder Company (AHHLC). Aetna continues to be humbled by the generosity and support from the community. - Submitted by Lawrence Tan
