Suffolk Fire and Rescue responded to a structure fire in the 6900 block of Old South Quay Road.
See story on page 4
3-Story, Multi-Family Blaze in the Portlock Section
Chesapeake Fire Department crews were on the scene of a residential structure fire near the Portlock section of the city.
See story on page 11
Farmville House Fire on Second Street
Farmville Dispatch received a call for smoke in the house and porch on fire on the 800 block of Second Street.
See story on page 14
Norfolk Handles Residential Fires
Norfolk FD crews responded to the report of a residential structure fire in the 100 block of West Lorengo.
See story on page 21
Cat Rescued at Buena Vista Blvd. Fire
Roanoke crews were dispatched to reports of a house on fire in the 1200 block of Buena Vista Boulevard SE.
See story on page 22
2025 Govenor’s Fire Service Awards
These prestigious awards recognize excellence in Virginia’s fire service.
See story on pages 32 & 33
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page 34
House Fire on Old South Quay Road
At 1530 hours, on April 12, 2026, Suffolk Fire and Rescue responded to a structure fire in the 6900 block of Old South Quay Road. Units arrived to find heavy fire showing from a single-story residence and initiated an interior attack while conducting primary searches. The fire was brought under control at 1555. Two adults were displaced and assisted by the American Red Cross. - Photos courtesy of Suffolk FR
Hanover Stops House Fire on
1 Person Critical at Fairfax House Fire
Fairfax County crews operated on a house fire in the 4400 block of San Carlos Drive in Fairfax. At 2055 hours, units responded to reports of a single-family home on fire. Crews arrived to find a large volume of smoke coming from the basement of the home and one occupant unaccounted for. Firefighters quickly went to work performing fire suppression and search operations. The missing occupant was located and transported in lifethreatening condition. - Photo courtesy of Fairfax County FR
Gold Pebble Way
Recently, Hanover Fire-EMS units were dispatched to the 8000 block of Gold Pebble Way, for a residential structure fire. Upon arrival, personnel found a single-story home with significant fire coming from the front of the home and attached garage. Nine units responded, and the incident was brought under control. Thank you to the Metro Richmond Flying Squad for their assistance. - Photo courtesy of Hanover County Fire & EMS
3-Story, Multi-Family Blaze in the Portlock Section
Chesapeake Fire Department crews were on the scene of a residential structure fire near the Portlock section of the city on April 25, 2026. At 1812 hours, firefighters were dispatched to the 600 block of Muddy Creek Road after receiving multiple calls from neighbors reporting a residential fire. While units were en route, crews observed heavy black smoke, prompting the dispatch of a second alarm. Chesapeake Battalion 1 reported a three-story multi-family home with fire showing from the center unit. Firefighters deployed multiple hoselines and master streams to bring the fire under control. The fire was contained to the center unit; however, the adjacent units on both sides sustained smoke and water damage. Multiple occupants in the multi-family structure were home at the time of the incident, but all safely evacuated. As a result of the fire, three of the six families residing in the multi-family structure were displaced. No injuries were reported. The American Red Cross was assisting the displaced.
- Photo courtesy of Chesapeake FD
Controlled Burn Not So Controlled
Drakes Branch Fire Rescue Brush 6 responded for a controlled-burn that had gotten out of control on Crafton’s Gate Highway.
- Photo courtesy Drakes Brach FR
Extreme Hoarding at Highland Ave Blaze
On April 29, 2026, at 2132 hours, crews were dispatched by the E911 Center to reports of a house on fire in the 400 block of Highland Avenue SE. While en route to the fire, Battalion Chief 1 on A-Shift could see the glow from the fire and the call was upgraded to a working fire. Responding units continued as additional resources were added to the incident. At 2136, Battalion Chief 1 reported flames coming from a two-story residential structure. Upon entry, crews reported extreme hoarding conditions as they worked to extinguish the flames and search the residence. At 2213, the building was evacuated and crews transitioned to a defensive attack. The cause of the fire was under investigation.
- Photos courtesy Roanoke FR
Farmville House Fire on Second Street
Farmville Dispatch received a call for smoke in the house and porch on fire on the 800 block of Second Street in Farmville. Dispatched were Farmville Engine 1, Hampden-Sydney Ladder 2 and Engine 2 and Prospect Company Engine 4. On arrival, FFD Engine 1 dropped a fourinch line from a hydrant and stretched a 1-3/4 inch line to the door and another to the C-D side of the house. They were able to knock the small fire inside on the C-D corner of the house, and proceeded to cut holes in the attached porch with the aid of HS Engine 2 and Prospect Engine 4.
- Fire News photo by Dan Pempel
Zero Cell Phone Service at Millstone Road Blaze
Galax firefighters operated at a structure fire on the 1900 block of Millstone Road. Galax E1 pulled two lines to begin working the fullyinvolved single-family residence. Notification was delayed due to the area having zero cell service. Additional units arrived from Hillsville and Cana and extinguishment was completed. The home was a total loss., but all five family members escaped the fire. The American Red Cross was assisting the family who was staying with relatives. Thanks to Glade Creek Fire for backfilling our station.
- Photo courtesy of Galaz FD
Fire in Chesterfield County, 1 to Hospital
One person was transported to a hospital following a working structure fire in the 3000 block of Newquay Lane in Chesterfield County. Firefighters arrived to find smoke and flames showing from a residence. Crews quickly deployed hoselines and began an aggressive attack on the fire. One individual was transported to an area hospital.
- Fire News photo by Carter Killorn
Leesburg House Fire
The Louduon County Fire Marshal’s Office was investigating a house fire that occurred on the 41400 block of Springfield Lane in Leesburg, just prior to 2230 hours, on April 13, 2026. Louduon County Fire Rescue (LCFR) units from Leesburg, Moorefield, Lansdowne, Ashburn, Hamilton, and Arcola, as well as multiple command and safety officers, responded. Units arrived to a two-story, single-family home fully involved and began a defensive attack. As this area of Loudoun County is not served by a municipal water supply, a Tanker Task Force was requested. An RIT Task Force was also requested to bring additional resources to the scene. The bulk of the fire was extinguished just before 2300, but units remained on scene for several hours conducting extensive overhaul of the structure.
- Photo courtesy of Louduon County FR
3 Displaced
by
Great Bridge Fire
The Chesapeake Fire Department was on the scene of a residential structure fire in the Great Bridge section of the city on April 22, 2026, at 1820 hours. Firefighters were dispatched to the 700 block of Montebello Circle after receiving multiple calls from neighbors reporting a fire on the rear porch of a residence. Chesapeake Engine 15 arrived within minutes and reported a two-story residential structure with fire showing in the back yard. Fire crews deployed multiple hoselines to the rear, where they encountered a portion of the back porch and rear exterior wall on fire. The fire extended up to the roofline but was quickly extinguished before it could reach the attic. The incident was brought under control at 1906. The occupants were not home at the time of the fire, but the three adult residents were displaced due to damage sustained.
House Fire Contained on Richmond’s Southside
Firefighters with the Richmond Fire Department operated at a house fire in the 2500 block of Pompey Spring Road. Units arrived to find a two-story single-family home with heavy fire coming from a second-floor bedroom. Crews quickly stretched a line and began an aggressive interior attack while simultaneously conducting primary searches. All searches were negative, and all occupants of the home were accounted for.
- Fire News photo by Carter Killorn
- Photo courtesy of Chesapeake FD
Brush Fire, 1 Juvenile Victim Transported
At 1718 hours on May 1, 2026, Suffolk Fire and Rescue responded on May 1, 2026, to a reported smell of smoke in the area of Delaware Avenue. Engine 1 arrived to heavy smoke coming from a wooded area. Additional units were requested due to the location and access challenges. Upon gaining access, crews located a juvenile patient with significant injuries and burns and approximately one acre of woods on fire. Firefighters quickly removed the patient and initiated care and transport. Due to the remote location of the fire, multiple crews were utilized to access the area and bring the fire under control. A section of train tracks had to be shut down briefly due to access. - Photos courtesy Suffolk FR
Little Fork Responds for Brush/Woods Fire
On March 31, 2026, Little Fork Fire Rescue was dispatched for a dump trailer fire on Springfield Circle. Units arrived to find a brush fire spreading through the woods along with a trailer and large wood pile fully involved. There were several exposures, including a pickup truck, that were damaged or in danger of becoming involved. An attack line was pulled and stopped the brush fire along with cooling the exposures. The fire was quickly contained and then was completely extinguished. A mutual aid tanker from Rappahannock Company 1403 was requested. We thank all of the volunteers who responded and saved a considerable amount of property.
- Photo courtesy of Little Fork FR
Speedy
Knockdown by Galax
Galax firefighters responded to a vehicle fire on Starmount Lane. Arriving units found a fully involved, abandoned passenger vehicle. The E1 crew pulled the bumper line and extinguished the fire in 60 seconds. - Photo courtesy of Galax FD
Dryer Fire in Farmville
Farmville Dispatch toned out Farmville Volunteer Fire Department, Hampden-Sydeny VFD and Prospect VFD for a structure fire on Andrews Drive in Farmville. The fire was in a two-unit dwelling and a senior may have been living in the unit. Chief 1 requested a fourth unit from Randolph District VFD. Farmville stretched a line and searched the unit encountering heavy smoke, heat and fire. Dispatch updated Farmville Chief 1 that no seniors were in the unit and the other resident was at work. Firefighters found the cause of the fire was a dryer on fire with cloths on top of the units.
Franklin Pushes-in New Apparatus
Franklin Fire and Rescue welcomed its newest apparatus, Engine 2, during a traditional push-in ceremony held at Station 1 on March 2, 2026. Today, the ritual symbolizes teamwork, pride and the official start of service for new apparatus. Engine 2 is equipped with updated safety features, improved pumping capabilities, and enhanced technology designed to support faster, more efficient emergency response throughout the Franklin community. Engine 2 will serve as a frontline response unit, supporting fire suppression, rescue operations, and emergency medical calls across the city.
- Submitted by Kim Gaskins
- Fire News photos by Dan Pempel
Norfolk Handles Residential Fire
Norfolk Fire Department crews responded to the report of a residential structure fire in the 100 block of West Lorengo. First units arrived on scene to find the homeowner in the backyard of a two-story residence using a garden hose to spray the rear of the home. Crews pulled a fire attack line and utilized saws to gain access. - Photo courtesy of Norfolk FD
1 Injured Seriously,
2 Dogs Dead at Fort Hunt Blaze
Fairfax firefighters were dispatched to the 2100 block of Basset Street in Fort Hunt for a report of smoke in the area. Crews located a fire in a single-family home. Firefighters began conducting searches while working to extinguish the fire. One occupant was removed from the home by firefighters and transported in life-threatening condition. Sadly, two dogs were found deceased.
- Photo courtesy Fairfax County FR
Two-Alarm Brush Fire on Indian Trail
On April 18, 2026, Suffolk Fire and Rescue responded to 5900 block of Indian Trail for a reported brush fire. Suffolk Emergency Communications Center dispatched the incident at 1853 hours. Engine 7 reported a fast-moving fire in the woods, threatening structures. The assignment was upgraded to two-alarms. The fire, originally two acres in the area of Indian Trail and Deer Path Road, quickly progressed with changes in the wind. Heavy fire spread quickly into the pine trees. The IC ordered an evacuation of three crews of firefighters at 1931. Crews successfully protected several homes that were threatened.
- Photo courtesy of Suffolk FR
Little Fork Assists
Brandy Station
On April 8, 2026, Little Fork volunteers were dispatched to assist Brandy Station on a working structure fire. Little Fork crews assisted with extinguishment, overhaul and water supply operations. We would like to thank the 15 volunteers who responded to the scene. We also had another seven volunteers who performed as standby at their station. Little Fork responded with Wagon 9, Tanker 9, Rescue 9 and Chief 9.
- Photo courtesy of Little Fork FR
Norfolk Shed Fire
Snuffed
Cat Rescued at Buena Vista Blvd. Fire
Roanoke crews were dispatched by the E-911 Center to reports of a house on fire in the 1200 block of Buena Vista Boulevard SE. Engine 6 C-Shift arrived and reported smoke showing from the front of the structure. Crews quickly went to work extinguishing the flames and searching the structure. Firefighters on Engine 11 rescued a cat for which Engine 1 and Ladder 1 provided treatment on scene. The cat was transported to a nearby animal hospital.
- Photos courtesy of Roanoke FD
Norfolk Fire Rescue crews were dispatched to Oak Grove Road for a report of a detached garage on fire. The first unit quickly arrived to find a detached shed fully engulfed with fire. Crews quickly advanced a handline and fire control was called at 0237.
- Photo courtesy Norfolk FR
Garbage Truck into House
Farmville Rollover with Entrapment MVA
The Farmville Volunteer Fire Department received a call for a single-vehicle rollover on Green Bay Road in the 10800 block. The car was on the front lawn of the caller’s house. Dispatch toned out the second-due and Prince Edward Rescue responded. Other firefighters passing by confirmed an entrapment. Farmville Squad 1 and Chief 1 arrived to perform the extraction and Prince Edward Rescue transported one to Farmville Centra Hospital. - Fire News photo by Dan Pempel
Fairfax County crews responded to the scene of a garbage truck into a home on the 7600 block of Henry Knox Drive in Lorton. At 1118 hours on April 28, 2026, units responded to reports of a vehicle that had crashed into a home. First arriving units found a garbage truck crashed into the side of a single-family home. Firefighters determined that the house was unoccupied. One civilian was evaluated.
- Photo courtesy Fairfield County FR
5 Seriously Injured in
South Quay MVA
Suffolk Fire Rescue responded to a two-vehicle MVA with people entrapped in the 9800 block of South Quay Road. Five patients were transported to the hospital with serious injuries.
- Photo courtesy of Suffolk FR
1 Medevac’d Following Serious MVA in Chesterfield
One person was airlifted to an area hospital following a serious crash with entrapment involving an overturned box truck and a pickup truck in Chesterfield County. Emergency personnel responded to Beach Road near Qualla Road on the evening of May 15, 2026, where they arrived to find the box truck overturned and the pickup truck with significant damage. Officials say the driver of the pickup was heavily entrapped, prompting firefighters to conduct an extensive extrication operation. According to officials, the individual was successfully extricated and airlifted by Med-Flight to an area hospital with serious injuries. - Fire News photo by Carter Killorn
Little Fork Handles MVA Near Alum Springs
On April 21, 2026, at 0030 hours, Little Fork was dispatched to a single-vehicle MVA on Rixeyville Road near Alum Springs. The occupant refused EMS service. Medic 9, Rescue Engine 9 and Chief 9 responded.
- Photo courtesy Little Fork FR
Norfolk Water Rescue
Norfolk firefighters responded to a water rescue call off of the 3500 block of Westminster. On arrival, crews found a truck in the water with one person still inside. The person was safely removed from the vehicle and transported to the hospital. No other injuries were reported.
- Photo courtesy of Norfolk FD
Up Close and Personal
Kevin Ryer, “Hungry Bus,” as he watches a photo shoot at the Winchester Apple Blossom Festival on May 1, 2026.
- Fire News photo by Dennis C. Sharpe
Training Getting Ready for FF I Practicals
Firefighters from Drakes Branch Fire Rescue drilled on throwing ladders and tying knot recently. Thanks to training officer Zack
for helping those getting ready for their FF1 practicals. -
Training for the Worst Case Scenarios
Portsmouth Fire recently completed a back-tobasics firefighter survival skills training designed to reinforce core competencies and build confidence in high-risk, low-frequency events. Firefighters trained on rescuing a downed member who had fallen through and become trapped under a floor. Crews practiced locating the firefighter, stabilizing the compromised area, and packaging and removing the member using coordinated techniques which prioritized both victim and rescuer safety. Rescue operations for a firefighter trapped in a below-grade environment were also conducted.
Training focused on laddering techniques, controlled access and egress, and coordinated removal while maintaining air management and constant communication. Finally, firefighters practiced self-rescue techniques during low-air and out-of-air emergencies. This included controlled problem-solving under stress, air conservation methods, and buddy breathing procedures. Overall, the training strengthened fundamental survival skills and reinforced the expectation that every firefighter is prepared to act decisively to save themselves and their fellow firefighters. - Photos courtesy of Portsmouth FR
Hudson
Photos courtesy Drakes Branch FR
Training
VDFP 2026 Water Rescue Training
The Virginia Department of Fire Programs (VDFP) Special Operations launched its 2026 Water Rescue program training in Arlington with watercraft on March 9 through 12. This program prepares our Commonwealth’s water rescue teams to handle water emergencies with motorized watercraft in static and dynamic environments. Students learn how to set up watercraft and motors, maintenance and field repairs, launching and recovery of water-
craft, GPS navigation on the water, towing watercraft, rescue and recovery of crew and/or victims and many boat handling skills that involved navigating watercraft in various water conditions. Thank you to the Arlington Fire Department for hosting the training and providing a huge lift with logistical support.
- Photos courtesy VDFP
Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival
The 99th Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival Firefighters parade was held on May 1, 2026, in Winchester.
- Fire News photos by Dennis C. Sharpe
Albemarle County FR’s 2026 Paramedic Graduation
On April 16, 2026, after seven months of intensive, full-time training, six Albemarle County Fire Rescue (ACFR) employees have successfully completed the department’s inhouse paramedic program.
The program includes more than 1,000 hours of advanced instruction and handson experience, preparing graduates to deliver critical Advanced Life Support (ALS) care in emergency situations. This includes cardiac monitoring, advanced airway management, and the administration of more than 30 medications.
The six graduates are: Kara Cacioppo, Ryan Haakenson, Terrence Jordan, Robert Kluba, Colin Mayry and John Taravella.
These newly certified paramedics represent a continued investment in highquality emergency medical care for the community, enhancing ACFR’s
ability to respond to complex medical emergencies with advanced skills and expertise.
“Completing this program is a significant accomplishment that reflects countless hours of dedication, resilience, and hard work,” said Fire Chief David Puckett. “We are incredibly proud of these six individuals and their commitment to serving our community at the highest level.”
Albemarle County Fire Rescue extends its sincere congratulations to these graduates on this major achievement and looks forward to the impact they will make in the field.
- Photo courtesy Albemarle County FR
Scholarship Awardees
The Virginia Department of Fire Programs would like to recognize the recipients of various scholarships! Eleven recipients attended the spring 2026 Structural Collapse School March 21 to 28 in Virginia Beach.
H. Dean Paderick SCS Scholarship Recipients: Steve Meeter (Henrico County); John Garner (Chesterfield County); Thomas Corliss-Dade (Chesterfield County); Christopher Bohn (James City County); Taylor Buchanan (City of Fredericksburg); Jack Caussin (Hanover County); Zachary Wills (Rockingham County); and Nicholas Runner (City of Norfolk).
SCS Rescue Squad Officer Scholarship Recipients: Nathan Verser (City of Hampton); and Drake Wayland (City of Suffolk). Congratulations to all.
- Photo courtesy VDFP
Governor Spanberger Recognizes Recipients of 2025 Governor’s Fire Service Awards
Governor Abigail Spanberger announced the recipients of the 2025 Governor’s Fire Service Awards. These prestigious awards, established in 2002, recognize excellence in Virginia’s fire service and were presented during the annual Virginia Fire and Rescue Conference in Virginia Beach.
“These award recipients embody excellence, dedication, and leadership in the fire service. I am honored to recognize their commitment to protecting the lives and safety of our fellow Virginians,” said Governor Abigail Spanberger.”
“The Commonwealth is incredibly grateful for the sacrifice of these fire service professionals,” said Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security Stanley Meador.”
“I commend each of these departments and individuals for their outstanding service and dedication,” said Virginia Department of Fire Programs Executive Director Brad Creasy.
2025 GOVERNOR’S FIRE SERVICE AWARD RECIPIENTS
EXCELLENCE IN CAREER
FIRE SERVICES
James Templeton, Virginia Beach FD
A firefighter since 2002, James Templeton has demonstrated extraordinary technical skills under extreme conditions as a Heavy Equipment and RiggingSpecialist with Virginia Task Force 2 (VA-TF2). Templeton’s unique ability to operate heavy excavators to breach collapsed structures and perform critical welding on failing buildings enabled the rescue of trapped victims in some of the nation’s most devastating disasters.
EXCELLENCE IN
VOLUNTEER FIRE SERVICES
Charles Pruitt, Accomack County Department of Public Safety
Charles Ray Pruitt’s dedication to the Eastern Shore community (Accomack and Northampton Counties) has been evident through his strong leadership and commitment to keeping his community safe. Pruitt excels in communication, which has been instrumental in keeping all the career and volunteer entities (20 different agencies) of the Eastern Shore informed to ensure safe and timely responses to incidents.
EXCELLENCE IN CAREER FIRE SERVICE TRAINING
Dept.of Fire Programs, Water Rescue Curriculum Development Group
The VDFP Water Rescue Curriculum Development Group is comprised of the Surface and Flood Water, Swift and Flood Water, and Watercraft work groups. It has exemplified exceptional dedication in building and sustaining the commonwealth’s water rescue capability. Subject matter experts completed a comprehensive update of all Virginia water rescue programs.
EXCELLENCE IN VOLUNTEER FIRE SERVICE TRAINING
Jane Crawford, Scruggs Volunteer FR
Throughout 51 years of dedicated service, Jane Crawford has demonstrated unmatched passion, integrity and leadership in the fire service. She served as an adjunct instructor for the commonwealth, teaching firefighter and hazmat instructor courses in local high schools to help educate and prepare countless emergency responders. Crawford continues to give back by mentoring young firefighters even after she entered retirement.
OUTSTANDING CAREER FIRE DEPARTMENT RESPONSE
Primary: Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority FD, City of Alexandria FD, Fairfax Co. FR and Prince William Co. FR
The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority Fire and Rescue Department’s (MWAA FRD) extraordinary efforts on the night of January 29, 2025 was the culmination of training and partnerships forged through mutual aid agreements. Following an alert from the FAA Tower of an aircraft crash of a US Army Sikorsky helicopter and PSA Airlines flight 5342 operating a CRJ 700, MWAA FRD Battalion Chief 301 cleared the airfield to the approach end of Runway 33 and requested the launch of rescue boats. An immediate search to locate wreckage and passengers ensued. Over 20 mutual aid fire and EMS teams responded, including several Virginia departments. The immediate and unwavering decisions made by Potomac River Command (Battalion Chief 301) set up the incident for a well-managed response.
Squad, Nottoway County Emergency Management, Virginia State Police MedFlight 1, and LifeEvac 1 and 3.
The Blackstone Volunteer Fire Department is recognized for its response to a motor vehicle crash involving two cars with three patients, one reportedly trapped beneath the dashboard. Within minutes, a member of Blackstone VFD arrived on scene and immediately established command. The need for extensive resources was evident and two medevac helicopters were requested to assist in the transportation of patients to the nearest trauma center. A combined effort from multiple agencies helped support the emergency with patient assessment and traffic management. An additional entrapment in the second vehicle required mutual aid from the Kenbridge Fire Department and the Crewe Volunteer Fire Department with additional ambulances from Burkeville Fire & EMS and the Nottoway County Emergency Squad.
CAREER FIREFIGHTER OF THE YEAR
Brian Grimes, Hanover County Fire-EMS
As a company officer, a regionally known instructor and a mentor to many in Virginia’s fire service, Brian Grimes has served with distinction in various fire departments across the Commonwealth. Grimes currently serves as a company officer assigned to Station 1 in Ashland, Virginia. As a career representative to the equipment committee, he has helped direct over $80,000 in spending to support the volunteer fire company. An advocate for training and professional development, Grimes has been instrumental in organizing and executing monthly training nights and evaluation processes to ensure all firefighters from junior to senior level are proficient.
VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTER OF THE YEAR
Garry Russell, Big Stone Gap Fire Department
A 19-year veteran of the Big Stone Gap FD, Garry Russell responds to 90 percent of the department’s calls and goes above and beyond to ensure that the fire department is fully efficient. From running a fire scene as the IC, to actively engaging in fire suppression as an interior firefighter, to directing traffic on an MVA, Lieutenant Russell effectively fills whatever role is needed to make the department and incident successful.
CAREER
CHIEF OFFICER OF THE YEAR
Eddie Ferguson, Goochland Fire, Rescue, and Emergency Services
A lifelong resident of Goochland County, Chief Ferguson has dedicated over 43 years of service to his community through Goochland County Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services. Ferguson rose through the ranks as company officer, district chief and volunteer deputy chief of EMS. He guided the department through large-scale changes that included major advances in technology, shifts in county leadership and the transition from an all-volunteer organization to a strong combination system. In addition to his service in Goochland, Chief Ferguson also had an integral role in Chesterfield County Fire and EMS, serving on specialized assignments to include the Hazardous Incident Response Team and the Virginia State Police MedFlight 1 program.
VOLUNTEER CHIEF OFFICER OF THE YEAR
Zachary Hottel, Woodstock Fire Department
In his nearly two decades in the fire service, Chief Zachary Hottel has led the Woodstock Fire Department through a period of unprecedented growth. Under his leadership, the department completed its first comprehensive strategic plan and ongoing renewal. While many volunteer agencies across Virginia are challenged with recruitment and retention, Chief Hottel has been a statewide leader. His comprehensive recruitment and retention program for the department increased active volunteers by approximately 15 percent, bringing 19 new members into the department over the past three years. Chief Hottel has also showed unwavering persistence in securing funding for the department through multiple grant programs and advocacy through local government for essential support.
The Virginia Department of Fire Programs provides training, support services, and resources to more than 700 fire and emergency service organizations, and approximately 44,000 fire service personnel in the Commonwealth. Support areas include funding, training and professional development, research, operational support, technical assistance, and fire safety inspections through its State Fire Marshal’s Office.
Newport News Gets Advanced Monitor/Defibrillators
Recently, Newport News Fire Department became one of only five departments in the country to implement advanced monitor/defibrillators from ZOLL Medical Corporation across all frontline ambulances and ALS engines. These state-of-the-art monitors improve patient care by providing real-time CPR feedback, advanced ventilation guidance, and in-depth vital sign monitoring. This allows providers to deliver more precise, high-quality care during cardiac arrest, trauma and other critical emergencies. In moments where seconds matter, better data means better decisions, and better outcomes for the community. - Photo courtesy of Newport News FD
Albemarle Co. Crews Honored with STEMI Award
Albemarle County Engine 161 and Medic 16 at Station 16 were honored today with a STEMI Recognition Award for their rapid assessment and early intervention during a recent chest pain call. A STEMI is a severe heart attack caused by a complete blockage of blood flow to the heart. Early recognition in the field allows crews to activate critical care pathways sooner, helping patients receive definitive treatment faster and improving outcomes. - Photo courtesy ACFR
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.
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 threeday program exclusively for individuals in the public education field, covering a wide range of public health topics and the powerful impact of community 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 AI-educator combined with his formula for harnessing the power of innovation, Dan helps audiences escape disruption to find growth and success.
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.
KAREN EMORY APPOINTED PRESIDENT OF FEMSA
The Fire and Emergency Manufacturers and Services Association (FEMSA) is pleased to announce that Karen Emory has officially assumed the role of President of the association. Emory, who has been an active and highly engaged member of the FEMSA Board of Directors since 2018, brings extensive experience, proven leadership, and a deep commitment to advancing the fire and emergency services industry.
Throughout her tenure on the Board, Emory has served in several key leadership capacities, including Vice President and Secretary/Treasurer. She has also been a longtime and dedicated member of the FEMSA Nominating Committee, contributing significantly to board development and organizational governance.
Emory currently serves as Vice President of Hi‑Tech Fire & Safety, Inc., a leading provider of high‑quality fire, EMS, and rescue equipment. The company is recognized for delivering top-tier solutions such as structural firefighting gear, extrication tools, and advanced air purification systems—resources vital to supporting first responders in their critical missions.
“I am honored to step into the role of President and continue working alongside our exceptional members and partners,” Emory said. “FEMSA plays a vital role in elevating the emergency services community, and I look forward to strengthening our collective impact in the years ahead.”
FEMSA congratulates Karen Emory on her new leadership role and looks forward to the expertise, energy, and vision she will bring as President.
SAVE THE DATEIT’S OFFICIAL!
We are pleased to announce that the 2026 F.I.E.R.O. Fire Station Design Symposium is officially scheduled — and registration is open.
Since 1990, F.I.E.R.O. has proudly hosted the first and longest-running Fire Station Design Symposium in the nation. This year, we return to the Hyatt Regency in Greenville, South Carolina for three and a half days of education, collaboration, and connection.
Dates: September 21–24, 2026
• Location: Hyatt Regency, Greenville, SC
• Pre-Conference Seminar: Monday, September 21 (Full Day)
• Main Symposium: September 22–24 (Half Day)
Whether you are a firefighter, architect, facility planner, or industry professional, this is the premier event for fire station design, construction, renovation, and technology.
Mark your calendars and watch your inbox — full program details are coming soon.
