Story on page 6. - Photos courtesy of Fairfax County FR
Fatality at Keswick Home Explosion
On August 19, 2025, units from Albemarle County Fire Rescue (ACFR) responded to multiple reports of an explosion. See story on page 4
Wildfire Assistance
When other states are dealing with severe wildfire activity, Department of Forestry (DOF) emergency responders can volunteer to deploy and assist through a national agreement between states and federal agencies.
See story on page 12
Firefighter Injured at Old College Dr. Fire
Suffolk Fire and Rescue responded to the 5900 block of Old College Drive for a residential structure fire.
See story on page 14
Pumping Water for Structure Fire
August 11, 2025, at approximately 1600 hours, Little Fork Fire Rescue was dispatched to assist Fauquier County for a working structure fire.
See story on page 16
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Detached Garage Fire –West Liberty Spring
Rd.
Suffolk Fire and Rescue responded on, August 28, 2025, to a reported garage fire in the 600 block of West Liberty Spring Road.
See story on page 18
Hazmat in the Fire Service
A Fire News special section.
See story on pages 22-28
32
page 34
page 36
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Fatality at Keswick Home Explosion
On August 19, 2025, at 1800 hours, units from Albemarle County Fire Rescue (ACFR) responded to multiple reports of an explosion heard in the 2300 block of Ferndown Lane in Keswick. The first units arrived to discover one home completely leveled. Twelve neighboring homes sustained varying levels of property damage. The homeowners were not home at the time. One adult female was located deceased on scene. One adult male was transported to UVA Health in serious condition. The cause of the explosion is unknown. The residence fully impacted by the explosion was a large two-story residential structure over a basement. The owners of the home were not present at the time. However, the adult female who lived in the neighborhood was checking on the home. ACFR crews are continuing to assess property damage, work with the affected neighbors, and continue debris clean-up. ACFR would like to thank the Albemarle County PD Virginia State Police, American Red Cross, and Virginia Department of Emergency Management who all came together in the immediate aftermath of this incident. The ATF has since joined the effort.
Electrical Issue in Bedroom
Galax firefighters operated at a structure fire on the 4000 block of Pipers Gap Road. Arriving units found a single-story residential with nothing showing. Investigation by the E2 crew found light smoke in a bedroom. The source was found to be an electrical issue that was quickly isolated. All units cleared in 20 minutes.
- Photo courtesy of Galax FD
Merrifield Restaurant Fire
Fairfax Crews responded to reports of smoke coming from a strip shopping center in the 3000 block of Nutley Street in Merrifield. Arriving units located a fire in the kitchen of a restaurant in the shopping center. Crews were able to quickly extinguish the fire. Smoke extended to two neighboring businesses.
- Photo courtesy of FCFR
- Photo courtesy of ACFR
Whitemoss Dr. Townhouse Fire
On August 9, 2025, units were dispatched to the 9000 block of Whitemoss Drive (Manassas) for multiple reports of a townhome on fire. Crews arrived to heavy fire in the rear rapidly extending into the structure. A second alarm was dispatched. All occupants had safely evacuated; one adult occupant was transported to a nearby medical facility with non-life-threatening injuries. The home sustained extensive damage and was declared unsafe to occupy. The adjoining home was also declared unsafe. No other units were damaged. At least five (5) adults were displaced and were being assisted by the Red Cross. The Fire Marshal was on the scene determining the cause of the incident.
- Photo courtesy of Prince William County FR
Fairfax Deck Fire
Kept from Extending
Fairfax County firefighters operated on the scene of a house fire in the 13000 block of Sturno Drive in the Clifton area of Fairfax County. Units arrived to fire showing from a rear deck attached to the home. Crews were able to quickly extinguish the fire, preventing any extension to the home.
- Photo courtesy of Fairfax County FR
Wildfire Assistance
When other states are dealing with severe wildfire activity, Department of Forestry (DOF) emergency responders can volunteer to deploy and assist through a national agreement between states and federal agencies. DOF staff deployed to Alaska earlier this year, and more recently, eight DOF wildland firefighters deployed to Washington state. Wildfires have burned more than 40,000 acres in Washington this year. The DOF team was split into two crews of four and assigned engines. Over three weeks, the crews traveled around Washington, from the coast to the mountains, conducting mop-up operations to ensure any lingering hotspots wouldn’t reignite.
- Photos courtesy Virginia Department of Forestry
Structure Fire Call – Important Reminder About Fire Hydrant Access
Hopewell Fire and EMS crews were dispatched to a report of smoke inside an apartment building. Upon arrival, firefighters discovered a vehicle parked directly in front of the fire hydrant that supplies water to the building’s fire suppression system. Fortunately, the incident turned out to be burnt food on the stove — but it serves as a critical reminder of how serious the outcome could have been. Our crews routinely train for situations like this so we’re always ready to act quickly in an emergency. But even with training, time is lost when access to vital equipment like fire hydrants is blocked. Blocking fire hydrants and fire lanes is not only illegal — it’s dangerous. In an emergency, every second matters, and we must have unobstructed access to hydrants to protect lives and property. Parking in front of a hydrant or in a designated fire lane can result in: a $200 fine or your vehicle being towed. Please help your fire department by keeping fire hydrants and fire lanes clear at all times. Your actions can make a life-saving difference. - Photo courtesy of Hopewell Fire & EMS
Basement Fire in Woodstock
The Woodstock Fire Department and surrounding companies responded to a smell of gas in the 100 block of South Main Street in Woodstock. Investigating crews found a working fire in the basement of one of the downtown buildings that was extinguished by on-scene crews. There were no injuries. - Fire News photo by Zachary Hottel
Longwood Ave. Bathroom Fire
On August 17, 2025, Farmville Volunteer Fire Department and Hampden Sydney Volunteer Fire Department were toned out for smoke and loud popping noise in the bathroom of a single-story house in the 1600 block of Longwood Avenue. Farmville was first on the scene and with a TIC located a hot spot in the bathroom ceiling. They pulled the ceiling and found an exhaust fan burning which was venting into the soffit. Hamden/Sydney VFD vented the house and Farmville firefighters pulled the outside soffit and wet down the area and were done in about 15 minutes.
- Fire News photos by Dan Pempel
FF Injured at Old College Dr. Fire
Suffolk Fire and Rescue responded to the 5900 block of Old College Drive for a residential structure fire. Suffolk Emergency Communications Center dispatched the incident at 0342 hours. Engine 11 arrived to find heavy smoke showing from the roof and fire showing from the garage of a single-story residence. Engine 11 and Engine 5 attacked the fire while Ladder 11 performed a search of the residence. Heavy fire was located in the garage and as the fire was spreading into the living space and attic, firefighters were able
to hit the fire and limit the fire’s progression. Two occupants were alerted by a working smoke alarm and evacuated prior to arrival of firefighters. The residence sustained heavy fire and smoke damage, and the fire’s cause and origin was being investigated by the Suffolk Fire Marshal’s Office with Fire Marshal 3 leading the investigation. One firefighter was injured during the firefight and was transported to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
- Photos courtesy of Suffolk FR
Pumping Water for Structure Fire
August 11, 2025, at approximately 1600 hours, Little Fork Fire Rescue was dispatched to assist Fauquier County for a working structure fire. It was reported to be a welding shop in the 9300 block of Springs Road. Units arrived and assisted with providing water to the incident. Wagon 9 and Tanker 9 responded with six volunteer
Annandale
Apartment Fire
firefighters who provided 4,250 gallons of water. We also would like to thank the other three volunteers who stayed back at the station staffing our ambulance while we were out of the area.
- Photos courtesy of Little Fork FR
Twin Medevacs for 2 Critical Patients
Galax crews responded to setup a LZ at Twin County Regional Healthcare (TCRH). Galax Fire utilized the Curtis Bartlett Fitness Center parking lot to set up an alternate LZ. Two inbound air transport units arriving at the same time for two critical patients. Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Air Care 3 took the helipad. Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital Lifeguard 11 took the alternate LZ. The flight crew was shuttled to the TCRH by GFD Rescue 5. All units cleared in 45 minutes.
- Photos courtesy of Galax FD
Fairfax County crews operated on scene of a two-alarm fire in a gardenstyle apartment in the 7900 block of Charles Thomson Lane in Annandale. Units arrived to smoke and fire showing. Firefighters located a fire in apartment on the third floor. The fire was brought under control. No civilian or firefighter injuries. Sadly, one pet was found deceased. Fourteen units were affected. - Photos courtesy of Fairfax County FR
Detached Garage Fire – W. Liberty Spring Rd.
Suffolk Fire and Rescue responded on, August 28, 2025, to a reported garage fire in the 600 block of West Liberty Spring Road. Engine 8 arrived to find a large, four-bay detached garage heavily involved in fire. Crews quickly worked to extinguish the blaze while estab-
lishing a rural water supply operation. One adult female was transported to a local hospital for a medical emergency. No other injuries were reported. The Suffolk Fire Marshal’s Office was investigating the cause of the fire.
- Photos courtesy of Suffolk FR
Suffolk Fire and Newport News Fire Fireboats Rescue Adult and Dog
On August 21, 2025, Suffolk Fire and Rescue responded to Interstate 664 at College Drive for a reported boat in distress. Suffolk Emergency Communications Center dispatched the incident at 0928 hours. Battalion 2, Engine 11 and Ladder 11 arrived at the Tidewater Community College Workforce Development Center (7000 College Drive), and could see a 30-foot Catalac Catamaran drifting towards the Suffolk shore line west of Interstate 664 in the James River. Battalion 2 made contact with the vessel’s operator, and the operator reported one adult and one dog were onboard and that the vessel was taking on water, lost propulsion, and was adrift.
Suffolk Fire Boat 1 and Newport News Fire Boat 1 both responded, in choppy waters, to rescue the stranded adult and canine. Due to the wind and waves in the James River, the catamaran’s anchor was unable to prevent the vessel from drifting towards the shoreline and efforts to prevent the boat from continuing to move towards the shore was unsuccessful. The operator of the 30 foot cat was seeking safe harbor from Hurricane Erin in the James River when it lost power and began to drift. The owner of the boat will be required to salvage the vessel, and is responsible for any clean-up that may be required after the storm passed. - Photos courtesy of Suffolk FR
IN THE FIRE SERVICE
Cancer Survivors Honored at the Fredericksburg Nationals Baseball Game
A night of baseball turned into a powerful moment of recognition and gratitude as cancer survivors from the Firefighter Cancer Support Network (FCSN) were honored at the FredNats baseball game in Fredericksburg, Virginia on September 5, 2025. The FredNats are the minor league affiliate of the Washington Nationals.
The survivors, along with their family and friends, took to the field where they were recognized for both their courage in battling the
disease and their dedicated service to their communities. Fans rose to their feet in a standing ovation, applauding not only their survival but also the years they spent protecting lives and property.
“Tonight is about honoring heroes who have faced incredible challenges, exemplify strength, resilience, and the true meaning of service” said Steve Weissman, a cancer survivor and the Virginia State Director for the FCSN.
The event also highlighted the mission of
FCSN, which provides support, mentorship, and resources to firefighters and their families following a cancer diagnosis. By sharing their stories on such a public stage, the survivors helped raise awareness about occupational cancer risks in the fire service and the importance of early detection.
The event could not have occurred without the support from Joe Oyler, a veteran firefighter and business owner who dedicates his time in supporting firefighters who are battling cancer.
Provided by Steve Weissman, Firefighter Cancer Support Network
Why EV Fires Are So Dangerous and What Firefighters Need to Know
Engine 1, respond to a report of a vehicle fire adjacent to an apartment building. Engine 1 responding. Engine 1 is on scene of a working vehicle fire approximately 20 feet from a large apartment building. Engine 1 is establishing command and will be down 1 handline for suppression. Engine 1 dispatch, UPDATE: this vehicle will be an electric vehicle (EV) and is still attached to the charging station…
This scenario could occur in your area, and likely already has. What do firefighters need to know, and how should they respond to EV fires?
The Growing Challenge of EV Fires
Electric vehicle fires are becoming more common, and the fire service is actively developing best practices for lithium-ion battery fire suppression. Unfortunately, industry progress on providing more research data and evolving firefighting tactics has been slow.
Fire departments already have tools available to combat EV fire hazards. Some of these are training-based, while others involve fire suppression technology like FCL-X, a firefighting solution proven to prevent re-ignition in lithium-ion battery fires.
Understanding Lithium-Ion Thermal Runaway
To effectively fight lithium-ion battery fires, we must first understand how they start. Causes include mechanical damage, overheating, overcharging, or arc failures. These conditions can trigger thermal runaway, where the separator between the anode and cathode fails, allowing the battery to ignite, even at low states of charge.
When arriving on scene, assume it’s an EV fire until proven otherwise. Since EV fires present such challenges to the status quo of standard car fires, rule it out first. EV firefighting tactics require different strategies:
• Use thermal imaging cameras to detect heat signatures.
• Look for smoke, odors, swelling, or visible damage to the battery enclosure.
• If active fire is present or you suspect fire based on the signatures listed above, deploy FCL-X directly into the battery pack for rapid knockdown and thermal runaway prevention.
Hidden Dangers of EV Fires
Beyond flames, EV fires release toxic chemicals during lithium-ion battery thermal runaway, including heavy metals, PAHs, VOCs, SVOCs, and PFAS. One of the most dangerous, hydrogen fluoride, is released in high concentrations and can be deadly. Firefighters must always use proper PPE and decontamination procedures on scene and back at the station.
Additionally, stranded energy in damaged cells can cause fire re-ignition. Overpacking and adequate disposal of damaged modules are critical to preventing secondary incidents.
Electrical hazards also pose a risk, as EV batteries store high voltage and amperage. A robust EV firefighting training program
must include DC vs. AC power safety to ensure responder safety.
Research and Industry Leadership
Ongoing research is shaping the future of electric vehicle fire response. Full Circle Lithium is deeply involved in national-level studies, including two lithium-ion fire research projects mapping chemical hazards and analyzing battery burn behaviors. Overseen by Webster Marshall, VP of Business Development, we collaborate with organizations like NCSU, IFSI, NFPA, and FSRI to ensure our solutions remain on the cutting edge of firefighter safety. To continue to progress as an industry, we must stay diligent and learn new things. The rest of the world is working on this. Have an open mind for emerging info and education for better decision making. Keep in contact with Full Circle Lithium for innovation and education, moving the needle in all fires!
The FCL-X Difference
When Engine 1 arrives at an EV fire scene, the crew can now shut off charging power, deploy FCL-X fire suppression solution, and achieve complete extinguishment without re-ignition. This multiapplication firefighting agent is designed for EVs, lithium-ion battery fires, and all classes of fires, giving firefighters the confidence that the fire is out… for good.
Might sound something like this: ……Engine 1 to radio, we are shutting off power to the charging station. Engine 1 will be deploying FCLX for suppression. …..[5 mins elapsed]…. Engine 1 to radio, we have the fire under control, and we are completing overhaul. The Fire is out….
CSX: Leading the Way in Safe Hazardous Materials Transport and Emergency Preparedness
Freight railroads are the safest way to transport hazardous materials over land, ensuring the well-being of their employees, the communities where they operate and the environment. At CSX, the culture is rooted in the constant evaluation and strengthening of policies and practices where every decision made is with the intention of transporting all freight safely and securely.
This commitment extends to the front lines of emergency response.
CSX’s Responder Incident Training (RIT) sessions provide first responders with hands-on experience managing hazardous materials and rail emergencies. Delivered via a specially designed train, these sessions combine classroom instruction with real-world simulations, equipping responders with the tools and confidence to act decisively when seconds count.
Additionally, in a landmark partnership with Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ), CSX has broken ground on the nation’s first railroad-operated Hazardous Materials Training Institute. Located at FSCJ’s Fire Academy of the South, the center will offer cutting-edge instruction using tank cars, simulators, and augmented reality scenarios.
“This facility will be an invaluable resource for training first respon-
ders,” said Joe Hinrichs, CSX President and CEO, underscoring the company’s dedication to community safety and preparedness.
CSX recognizes that the key to effective emergency readiness lies in thorough planning. In 2024, CSX trained more than 8,200 first responders and law enforcement personnel on how to safely respond to railroad emergencies. Together, these initiatives reflect CSX’s unwavering commitment to protecting its employees, partners, and the communities it serves — one training session at a time. For more information visit www.csx.com .
Provided by Full Circle Lithium
Fire Service Solutions
Protect Firefighters on Every Call with Fluorine-Free F-500 EA®
Although fluorine-free foam is replacing fluorinated foam containing harmful PFAS chemicals for Class A and Class B firefighting operations, it doesn’t address many of the issues firefighters face on a daily basis. The NVFC estimates that a staggering 65% of firefighters within the USA are volunteers, and we believe we could be doing more to support our heroes and maximize their well being.
As the world increasingly embraces electric power, lithium-ion batteries have become more widespread. This shift in manufacturing practices necessitates an evolution in fire safety strategies. Lithium-ion battery fires pose risks that go beyond flammability. F-500 EA® is extinguishing these fires with significantly less water while mitigating flammability, explosivity, and toxicity.
Third-Party Tested
Over 15 Years of Proven Lithium-ion Battery Fire Testing
A lithium-ion battery fire poses unique risks with Class A, B, and C hazards, high energy density, and volatile thermal runaway. NFPA 18A Annex 4.3 acknowledges over 15 years of industry research and testing utilizing Encapsulator Agents to mitigate flammability, explosivity, and toxicity. This testing spans multiple continents, highlighting Encapsulator Technology as a global solution.
5: Firefighters attack 54 kWh EV fire in live fire test in South Korea. Following a 14-minute pre-burn, fire was extinguished in 8.5 minutes using approximately 800 gallons of 3% F-500 EA solution.
FLAMMABILITY
F-500 mitigates lithium-ion battery fires by encapsulating flammable electrolyte and absorbing thermal energy. This halts thermal runaway propagation and rapidly cools the fire’s ignition source.
EXPLOSIVITY
F-500 EA effectively stops the production of toxic off-gases from burning lithium-ion batteries. By preventing the release of hazardous vapors and gases, we reduce the risk of explosions.
TOXICITY
F-500 EA® significantly reduces exposure to harmful emissions and carcinogens present in smoke. We actively protect building occupants from the dangers of lithium-ion battery fire suppression.
For more information visit www.hctworld.com or call (770) 719-5112
Figure 2: Heat transfer into EA water droplet packed with micelles and coated with EA molecules. (HCT, Inc.)
Figure 3: Free radical interruption causes smoke to disappear from tire fire upon application of F-500 EA. (HCT, Inc.)
Figure 4: Firefighter checks for F-500 EA in the stream, observing for milky appearance. (HCT, Inc.)
TNT Extrication Tools –Power, Speed, and Reliability You Can Count On
When lives are on the line, your tools can’t let you down. That’s why first responders across the country trust TNT Extrication Tools engineered for power, built for speed, and backed by a promise no other manufacturer can match.
Freedom to Choose Your Battery
Say goodbye to being locked into expensive, proprietary systems. TNT gives you the freedom of choice with battery platforms you already know and trust. Our tools run on:
• Milwaukee M18
• DeWalt 20V or Flexvolt
• Makita LXT
This flexibility means your department can standardize on the batteries you already own, saving time, money, and hassle while ensuring your tools are always mission-ready.
Performance That Saves Lives
boosts tool speed by 40%, and you’ve got equipment designed to work as hard and as fast as your crew does. Faster cuts, quicker spreads, more lives saved.
you’ll never have to ask. We offer a Forever Warranty—a guarantee that your tools will be free from defects for as long as you own them. Not 10 years. Not 20 years. Forever. That’s not just a promise—it’s our commitment to the people who depend on us.
Proudly Made in the USA
Every TNT tool is designed, engineered, and manufactured right here in the United States. By keeping every step of production in-house, we ensure the highest standards of quality, durability, and reliability. When you choose TNT, you’re not just buying tools— you’re supporting American craftsmanship and innovation.
Why Choose TNT?
With TNT, you don’t just get a tool—you get unmatched performance in the moments that matter most. On a single battery, our tools can power through 60 to 70 complete cuts. Add to that our advanced 3-stage pump, which
The Forever Warranty –Because Trust Matters
Most companies offer a “lifetime warranty,” which usually means coverage for about ten years. But what happens after that? With TNT,
Because in the fire service, compromise isn’t an option. TNT Extrication Tools deliver the power you demand, the speed you need, and the reliability you can trust—all backed by a Forever Warranty and made right here in the USA.
TNT Extrication Tools: The Tools Built for Heroes.
Basic Aircraft Firefighting Program
Virginia Department of Fire Programs (VDFP) Special Operations held its inaugural basic aircraft fire fighting program in collaboration with Newport News/Williamsburg Airport. The first four days of class were conducted at Newport News/Williamsburg Airport with the fifth day of live fire burns at Roanoke/Blacksburg Airport. - Photos courtesy of VDFP
Dillon Sanders Awarded the Fire News
“Probie of the Year”
Award
I would just like to thank Fire News for the consideration to recognize a position in the fire service that rarely gets attention or appreciation. The rookie member is in the foundational time period of their career and sometimes, positive reinforcement and rewarding good behaviors can set that foundation for the rest of their career.
- Submitted by Joshua Grabiak, Lt., Loudoun County FR
Woodstock Fire Department Open House
The Woodstock Fire Department’s open house featured music, food trucks, displays, giveaways and more. This event welcomed the community to our station to learn about what we do.
- Fire News photo by Zachary Hottel
Woodstock Antique Apparatus
Working Residential Fire on Wilson Street
On the evening of August 7, 2025, Suffolk Fire and Rescue responded to the 400 block of Wilson Street for a residential structure fire. Battalion 1 and Engine 2 arrived to find heavy black smoke showing from a two-story structure. Engine 2 and Engine 1 attacked the fire while Ladder 3 and Rescue 1 performed a search. Heavy fire was located on the first floor of the structure and suppressed. Searches were completed and were all clear. The residence sustained heavy fire and smoke damage, and the fire’s cause and origin is being investigated by the Suffolk Fire Marshal’s Office with Fire Marshal 2 and Fire Marshal 6 leading the investigation. This is an active investigation and anyone with information is asked to reach out to the Suffolk Fire Marshal’s Office at 757-514-4550.
- Photo courtesy of Suffolk FR
Woodstock Fire Department maintains this 1942 Ford/Southern engine. It is pictured here at their department open house on June 20, 2025.
- Fire News photo by Zachary Hottel
Backpacks and School Supplies
Recently, Fairfax County Fire Rescue hosted its annual Backpack and School Supply Distribution at FS11, Penn Daw. Firefighters, retirees, and volunteers worked together to distribute 1,600 back-
packs filled with school supplies to families, schools, and nonprofits throughout the county. A huge thank you to all who helped make the event a success! - Photos courtesy of Fairfax County FR
Harlan Calls it a Career
Norfolk Fire Rescue wishes to congratulate Fire Marshal Kenneth Harlan on his retirement after 46 years of dedicated service! You read that correctly, 46 years. Wow! Your NFR family wishes you all the best in your next adventure.Take care Kenny!
- Photos courtesy of Norfolk FR
SUPER VAC AND COMMAND LIGHT APPOINT NEW REGIONAL SALES MANAGER TO NORTHEAST TERRITORY
FORT COLLINS, Colo. — Super Vac and Command Light proudly announce the appointment of a new regional sales manager with the addition of Tom Houlihan in the Northeast region. Houlihan now represents Super Vac’s expansive lineup of ventilation equipment and Command Light’s array of scene lighting products in Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, Washington DC and West Virginia.
Houlihan joins Super Vac and Command Light with more than 30 years of experience in the fire service, accompanied by 20-plus years in the fire and industrial markets. Houlihan joined the fire service in 1993, rising to the rank of Lieutenant and remains a current member in Colonie, NY.
Houlihan has a special ability to cultivate relationships with distribution partners and fire departments across the region. He brings his passion for sales, marketing, education and the fire service to Super Vac and Command Light after working at Task Force Tips, Garrison Fire & Rescue and Milton CAT.
“We’re excited to see what Tom can do with his love of sales and marketing, and his passion for the fire service, to Super Vac and Command Light,” Super Vac and Command Light President Roger Weinmeister said.
Houlihan will be present at key industry events beginning with
the New Jersey State Fireman’s Convention on Sept. 12, 2025.
To view Super Vac’s full territory breakdown, visit supervac.com/sales-support. To view Command Lights’ full territory lineup, visit commandlight.com/sales-support.
About Super Vac
Super Vac is the world’s leading manufacturer in the emergency ventilation products. A one-stop shop for all things ventilation, Super Vac equips crews with a versatile array of only the toughest solutions, including the industry’s largest lineup of PPV fans, spanning from 8- to 80-inch blades, as well as smoke ejectors, available in 12-, 16-, 20- and 24-inch blades. Super Vac also manufactures rescue saws, rehab misters and other necessities.
About Command Light
Command Light, located in Fort Collins, Colo., has specialized in scene lighting for the emergency industry for more than 25 years and features only the best light towers, compact scene lighting, traffic flow boards and other safety lighting products. Command Light’s towers are available in a variety of configurations, including AC or DC, different tower bases, varying output choices and a long list of options, like backlighting to illuminate both sides of the scene
Albemarle’s Chief Dan Eggleston to Retire
Albemarle County Fire Rescue (ACFR) Chief Dan Eggleston has announced his retirement, effective October 24, 2025. His decision will conclude a distinguished career with more than 40 years of service in the fire profession, including 23 years leading the (ACFR).
“Chief Eggleston has been a transformational leader for Albemarle County,” said County Executive Jeff Richardson. “His ability to strengthen Albemarle’s Fire Rescue system through partnerships and collaboration with volunteer companies, while also elevating the voice of the fire service on the national and international stage, is remarkable. He has built a modern, unified department that will continue to benefit our community long after his retirement.”
Eggleston was named the 2015 Career Fire Chief of the Year by the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), reflecting his leadership in building ACFR into a nationally respected combination system. Under his direction, the department constructed four new stations, hired more than 200 career firefighters, secured over $10 million in FEMA grants, modernized its fleet, and expanded training and wellness programs.
Beyond Albemarle County, Chief Eggleston served as IAFC President and Chairman of the Board, representing fire service leaders before Congress, advising on public safety policy, and building partnerships with international fire organizations. His career included service during pivotal moments such as Hurricane Floyd, postSeptember 11 operations in New York City, and the August 12, 2017, civil disturbance in Charlottesville-Albemarle.
“My time with Albemarle County Fire Rescue has been the most rewarding chapter of my career,” said Chief Eggleston. “The progress we have made together has been possible because of the dedication of our volunteers and staff. I am proud of the system we’ve built and confident it will continue to thrive.” - Photo courtesy of ACFR
Hopewell’s Newest Firefighters Graduate
On August 22, 2025, three of Hopewell’s newest firefighters graduated from the Crater Regional Fire Academy Class 3 (CRFA). The CRFA is a five-month program made possible through the collaboration of Colonial Heights, Hopewell, Petersburg, Dinwiddie County, and Prince George County. Instructors from all five localities taught critical skills across Fire and EMS, preparing recruits for the challenges of the job.
Graduation is only the beginning. Our new firefighters will now continue their training in-station, learning the Hopewell way of serving and
protecting our community.
We are also proud to recognize two of our graduates for their outstanding achievements: Firefighter Rittenberry – Academic Excellence Award (Highest GPA) and Firefighter Hansbrough – Instructor’s Choice Award (Dedication to Core Values)
Please join us in congratulating our newest Firefighters on this incredible milestone. We wish them long, safe, and successful careers— always learning, always serving.
