3rd Alarm Fire @ 1104 Gordon Ave

On November 1, 2014 @ 0708 crews were dispatched for a report of a warehouse fire at this location. Engine 13 arrived on scene and found a single story warehouse with heavy smoke visible from the "A" and "B" sides and immediately a working fire was declared. Rescue 1 forced entry while Engine 13 and Engine 17 attempted an interior attack. All units were pulled out after fire started ventilating from the roof and a 2nd Alarm was declared @ 0732. Truck companies worked to open up the structure for master stream devices, while ground and elevated master streams were put into place on the main fire building. Heavy fire was endangering an adjoining warehouse, multiple lines were put in place to protect this exposure and attack the initial fire which prompted the BC to declare a 3rd Alarm @ 0749. As a result, the exposure suffered only minor roof damage from the original fire. The fire crews did a great job of stopping it before it spread to adjoining warehouses which would have cause catastrophic damage. Heavy elevated and ground master streams remained in place until the fire was marked under control @ 1034.

The last crew on scene cleared up @1726; the initial warehouse which stored plastic bottles for recycling was completely destroyed, while the adjoining warehouse only suffered minor damage. There were no civilian or firefighter casualties or injuries... Weather played a major factor as wind obstructed visibility and increased the possibility of the fire spreading. Without the assistance of our partners, this fire could have gone very wrong very fast. Richmond’s Department of Public Utilities boosted hydrant water pressure to accommodate what we needed otherwise we wouldn't have had enough water to put the fire out as quickly. Richmond Police Department and Richmond Ambulance Authority provided immediate support with traffic and Medical Services. Mutual Aid coverage was provided by Henrico's Engine 18 to Station 11 and Chesterfield's Engine 11 to Station 21. VA Dominion Power assisted as well to provide electrical shut down on the property to keep all personnel on scene safe. The cause of this fire was determined to be faulty electrical equipment per the investigators.
 

 

 

 

2nd Alarm House Fire @ 3204 Chamberlayne Ave

On October 29, 2014 @ 0349 Engine 14 was dispatched on a single company assignment for smoke investigation at 3211 Chamberlayne Avenue based on caller information of a lot of smoke in the area. While approaching the 3200 Block Engine 14 advised Richmond Dispatch that there was a heavy smoke in this area and requested a full assignment to sent. Engine 14's Lieutenant walking walked towards the lower end of the 3200 block and he noticed heavy fire and smoke coming from the roof and attic dormer. A working fire was declared immediately and Incident Command was established. Based on the current condition, an intelligent decision was made as the fire was declared a defensive operation. Engine 14 stretched a leader line to the C side to darken it down so that companies could make a push once this process was completed. Truck 10 was the second company that arrived and based on the progress thus far, they were able to open the front door noticing clear visibility on both 1st and 2nd floor. Initial and final search results were negative. A transitional attack was deployed: Battalion Chief’s 1 & 2, Safety Officer, Air Light 5, Engine’s 5, 15, 16, and 18 assisted with various tasks throughout the operation as well. The fire was marked under control @ 0539 by Battalion 2. The fire was upgraded to a 2^nd Alarm for the purpose of personnel being relieved only.

2nd Alarm House Fire @ 1915 Carter St

On October 24, 2014 @ 0526 Engine 6 was dispatched to 1908 Texas Ave for a report of a structure fire. While en route, E6 received a updated location that the 1900 block of Carter Street is where the fire was located.  From miles away, Battalion Chief 3 advised that he could see a bright orange glow visible in the night sky. Engines 6 and 12 arrived simultaneously as both companies secured hydrants conducting forward lays to the structure.  The Captain of Engine 6 reported a 2 story residential structure under construction fully involved with fire. A working fire was declared, an interior attack was not feasible since the fire had fully breached the roof prior to fire personnel arriving. Engine 6 deployed 300' of 1 3/4" and 400' of 2 1/2" including two pre-connect cross lays and a leader line system with the Blitz Fire appliance as a control valve.  The fire attack was a defensive operation originating on the Alpha then Charlie side. Upon Battalion 3’s arrival and assuming Carter Street Command, he called for the 2nd Alarm be put in at 0545.  The exterior tool shed on the Bravo side was exposed flames and sustained damage to the exterior siding.  Various building supplies and finished wood products on the site were damaged by fire and the structural framework sustained heavy charring throughout the structure.  Battalion Chief 2, Safety Officer, Air Light 5, Engine’s 13, 17, 18, Truck 1 & 10, along with Rescue 2 assisted with various tasks throughout the operation as well.  The fire was marked under control @ 0624 by Battalion 3.

MDA

For six decades, fire fighters nationwide have fueled MDA's mission to find treatments and cures for life-threatening muscle diseases.  Collectively, Richmond area firefighters to include Chesterfield, Hanover, and Henrico Counties, along with Richmond City, pledged to raise over $225,000 (of which Richmond’s goal was $100,000) for the local families served by MDA.  The funds raised through 2014 Richmond area Fill the Boot events will help support MDA's programs of worldwide research, specialized health care services, and day-to-day support – which includes sending children affected by muscular dystrophy and related muscle diseases to a weeklong, barrier-free MDA summer camp at the Airfield 4-H Conference Center in Wakefield, VA.

I’m very proud to announce that the Region raised $273,000.  The final results are in and not only did we meet our goal, we exceeded it by collecting a total of $138,845.23.  “Thanks to your teamwork, effort, and dedication to serve others” says this year’s MDA Coordinator Battalion Chief Warren A. Cersley.  A special acknowledgment goes out to Engine 13 and Rescue 1 “C” Platoon for collecting $26,458.01, this year highest individual total.

House Fire 2614 Redwood Ave

On September 11, 2014 RFD companies were dispatched for the house fire located at 2614 Redwood Ave…  Engine 11 arrived on scene, establishing command, and found a 1.5 story private dwelling with smoke showing from the “C & D” corner.  They conducted an aggressive attack, stretching a 1 ¾ attack line through the front door and encountered fire rolling out of the kitchen into the dining room.  Engine 11 darkened the fire down and moved into the kitchen extinguishing the remaining fire.  They also extinguished hot spots as Truck 1 opened up.  Truck 1 completed a primary search, which proved negative, as Engine 1 stretched a back-up line and Engine 15 established the role of RIT.  The fire was quickly brought under control as a result of a total team effort.  Fire Investigators were requested to the scene to determine a cause.  There were no casualties or injuries as Red Cross was requested and assisted the sole occupant.

9-11 Memorial Stair Climb

On September 7^th, 2014 the Richmond Fire Department hosted its 5^th Annual 9-11 Memorial Stair Climb at the SunTrust Center located at 919 E. Main Street, Richmond, VA. These climbs are not timed race events, but a way for firefighters and members of the community to honor and remember the FDNY firefighters who selflessly gave their lives so that others might live. Each participant pays tribute to a FDNY firefighter by climbing the equivalent of the 110 stories of the World Trade Center. With the participation of first responders from multiple jurisdictions from Central Virginia, this year’s stair climb was a great success. The goal of 343 climbers was not only met but exceeded. FDNY Rescue Co. #4 was on display at the climb, which was the rig that was pulled from the rubble on 9-11 and repaired.  It now travels the country to educate, honor, and remember the fallen. A special Thanks to this year’s Coordinator RFD’s LT Mike Oprandy, all of the participants, and sponsors who all made numerous sacrifices to make this a success.

 

 

 

Coast to Coast Bike 2014

Chris Rupp, a 25-year-old firefighter, will be riding his bicycle 6,000 miles on an epic journey beginning on May 28 in Seattle and finishing on August 17 in Miami – all to raise funds for local Make-A-Wish® chapters across the country. Chris will be staying in local Fire Stations along his trip. He will be making a stop in Richmond, where he will be making an overnight stop on Tuesday July 29^th, 2014. Chris will be staying at RFD’s newly built Fire Station 17 located @ 2211 Semmes Avenue.  Good luck Chris on your journey and welcome to Richmond, The Capital City of Virginia!

Guns-n-Hoses (RPD vs RFD) Charity Softball Game @ The Diamond

Come out and support a fun charity event with the Richmond Police Department vs. the Richmond Fire Department in the inaugural charity softball game, Guns-n-Hoses, on Saturday, August 23 at the Diamond. Bring out friends and family to cheer on your favorite team starting at 4 p.m. Each ticket is only $7 and with each paid admission, attendees can watch the charity softball game and then stay to watch the Flying Squirrels game at 6:05, with the evening culminating in a fabulous a fireworks show. A portion of the proceeds ($2.50) will be contributed to either the Richmond PAL or the MCV Burn Foundation.

For tickets Contact Chief Glidewell at 381-2696 or Lawrence.glidewell@richmondgov.com or Lt. Armstrong at 381-2688 or Christopher.armstrong@richmondgov.com.

Rise Award Recipient

On July 17^th, 2014, RFD’s Network Engineer John Birchfield received his Tri Annual FY 2014 Rise Award from Fire Chief Robert A. Creecy. John was recognized for his outstanding achievement in the category of Team Merit/Process Improvement. He has been employed with the Fire Department since December 2005, Congratulations John!

Remember, you have until July 31 to nominate any eligible City employee who made an exceptional achievement during the 3^rd Tri-annual Award Interval of the 2014 fiscal year (March 1, 2014 through June 30, 2014). Learn more about how you can nominate for the RISE! Achievement Awards Program by clicking on the RISE! Nomination link in the “Useful Links” menu on the right side of the StarNet homepage. If you need assistance, please contact Human Resources by phone at 646-5660 or by email at EmployeeRecognition@RichmondGov.com.

Register today for the 4th Annual Richmond 911 Memorial Stair Climb

There are over 100 climbers already registered and the spots are filling up fast so don’t wait, sign up today!!! 

http://www.9-11stairclimb.com/events.html

NEW THIS YEAR:

Thanks to our sponsors, T-shirts will be provided this year with your registration fee!

FDNY Rescue Co. #4 will be on display at the climb.  This is the rig that was pulled from the rubble on 9-11 and repaired.  It now travels the country to educate, honor, and remember the fallen.  Here is the link to their website  http://remembrance.co/

Also new this year are challenge coins!! These coins are $10 each and the proceeds will benefit the RFD Our Family Foundation.

  Lt. Mike Oprandy

Rescue Co. #1

Richmond Fire Department

W# 804.646.8296    C#804.370.7191

RFD's Bravest Rescues 7 Dogs

 

On Friday July 11^th, 2014 @ 1755, RFD’s Bravest were dispatched to 3303 Bunche Pl. for a report of an apartment fire. Engine 11 arrived on scene first and found heavy smoke showing from the front door. As they arrived on scene, communications relayed that there was possibly 7 dogs were unaccounted for and were possibly still inside the apartment. They immediately conducted an aggressive attack and quickly extinguished fire in the kitchen area.

In coordination with Truck 1 and Engine 1, all companies successfully rescued 7 pit bulls from an upstairs bedroom (no casualties). After a brief evaluation, all puppies were turned over to their owners but they were gracious enough to let their rescuers take a photo with them. No injuries were reported as a result of the incident however the Greater Richmond Chapter of the American Red Cross was requested to assist three individuals who were displaced. Great Job to all those involved!!!

Working Fire / E. 14th Street

At 9:37 a.m., on the morning of October 4th, 2013, Richmond Firefighters were summoned to the 100 Blk of E. 14th street in the city's Blackwell Neighborhood for reports of a home on fire. As crews were responding, additional information was provided by the Richmond Department of Emergency Communications that there was possibly an elderly male still inside the residence. Quint 13 arrived on scene within minutes to report fire venting from the rear of a single family residence. Crews entered the structure and were able to bring the blaze under control quickly. Firefighters searched the home without finding anyone. It was later learned that no one was home when the fire broke out. No injuries were reported as a result of the incident however the Greater Richmond Chapter of the American Red Cross was requested to assist seven individuals who were displaced.

1608 Mechanicsville Trpk.

On the Morning of Tuesday, February 5th, 2013, RFD's bravest were called to the 1600 block of Mechanicsville Trpk for reports of smoke coming from a 2nd story window of a building. 11 Engine arrived on scene in minutes to report a two story residential duplex with fire and smoke venting from the 2nd floor. Members of Engine 11 initiated an aggressive interior attack on the fire while Quint 1 handled performing Truck Company Operations. Rescue 1 secured the searches of the structure ensuring everyone had made it out safely. The fire was brought under control in about 20 minutes with no injuries being reported. The Greater Richmond Chapter of the American Red Cross was requested to assist the displaced occupants. Richmond Fire Department Investigators determined the fire was "Accidental" in nature and ignited due to an overloaded electrical outlet.

5005 Old Midlothian

On January 23rd, 2013, RFD was called to 5000 blk. of Old Midlothian Turnpike for a reported structure fire. Units arrived within minutes to report heavy fire and smoke consuming approximately ½ of a manufactured home. Noting exposures on sides B, C & D, Quint 20, with the assistance of members from Quint 22 initiated fire attack, while Rescue 3 searched the residence for any occupants. Quint 23 took Truck Work and Quint 17 was Rapid Intervention. The fire was knocked down in a matter of minutes with all searches proving negative. All occupants made it out of the residence safely and no injuries were reported by any personnel on scene. The Greater Richmond Chapter of the American Red Cross was requested to assist four adults who were displaced by the fire. Richmond Fire Investigators determined the fire started when one of the occupants used a handheld butane torch to thaw pipes underneath the home.

Animal Rescue

Just after 1PM today, a Richmond Police Officer was flagged down by a concerned citizen stating that she feared her dog had fallen into a drainage pipe behind their home. The RPD Officer quickly assessed the situation and made an effort to reach the stranded pup but determined that it wasn't safe to enter the culvert any further. Richmond Firefighters were called and members of the departments Technical Rescue Team made entry into the confined space area, where they were able to safely remove "Ramsay".

Fire Station 17 Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

On November 7th, 2012 at 2 p.m., Richmond Fire and Emergency Services will host a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the new Fire Station 17 located at 2211 Semmes Ave.

Working Fire / N. Adams Street

In the early afternoon hours of August 31st, Richmond Firefighters were called to the 300 block of N. Adams Street for reports of smoke coming from a building. Crews arrived on scene within minutes to find a multi-story mixed use building with heavy fire & smoke visible from the top floor and roof area. Searches of the residential units on the upper floors revealed that everyone had exited the building safely. The fire was brought under control after a short period of time, but not before the building suffered extensive damage. No injuries were reported and the cause of the blaze remains under investigation.

Working Fire / Minefee St.

On August 27th, an early morning fire displaced an adult woman and her daughter. 911 calls to Richmond Department of Emergency Communications Center stated that there was "smoke coming from a home" in the 1400 block of Minefee Street on the City's Southside. Quint 21 arrived first due to report a single story home with smoke venting from the attic and roofline. The fire was located and confined to the living room area, but the home suffered smoke damage throughout. The Greater Richmond Chapter of the American Red Cross was requested to assist the displaced family. No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Working Fire / Carlisle Ave.

On August 24th, Richmond firefighters quickly extinguished a fire that erupted in the rear of a 1 story home on Carlisle Ave. Crews arrived within minutes of being dispatched to find smoke and flames visible from the rear of the home. The incident was brought under control in about 15 minutes. No one was at home when the fire started, and the cause is currently under investigation.

Small Fire in Bell Tower/Capitol Grounds

Just after noon on Wednesday, July 25th, 2012, Richmond Firefighters were called to 101 N. 9th street, The Capitol Grounds, for what was initially reported as a building fire. Firefighters arrived at the address of the Bell Tower that sits at the intersection of E. Franklin and N. 9th streets. Some wooden areas beneath the roof of the tower began to smolder after contractors had performed some renovation work. Firefighters removed charred material and remained on scene for an extended period of time ensuring the areas were wet down.