Truck Fire on the Interstate
Monday, January 11, 2010: At 11:29 the Harrisonburg/Rockingham Emergency Communications Center was alerted to a tanker on fire on Interstate 81 at mile
239 southbound. Company 5 responded with Engine 53, Tanker 50, and Brush 55. Other companies who responded included Company 15 and Rescue 15 out
of Bridgewater, Company 40 out of Harrisonburg, Rescue 20 from Grottoes, and Engine 25 from the City of Harrisonburg with command staff and hazmat
responding from Rockingham County Fire and Rescue. Units arrived to find a diesel fuel tanker which had collided with a bridge subsequently catching fire.
Company 5 units worked this scene for nearly 2 hours before returning to service. This accident created a significant traffic issue on the interstate for much of the
afternoon (photos courtesy www.newsleader.com, Staunton, VA).
Flood Safety Reminder
Monday, January 25, 2010: In the midst of a flood warning, the fire company would like to remind our community of a few basic safety reminders. Tonight we
have experienced flash flooding throughout much of the valley. Flooding is likely throughout today as the ground is saturated. Floods may appear in hours or
even in a few minutes (in the case of flash flooding). Stay tuned to your television or radio for updates on flood conditions.
During flood conditions keep in mind the following tips:
- Do not walk through moving water, 6 inches of water is enough to knock you down
- Do not touch any electrical appliances that are in standing water
- Do not drive through standing water
- A foot of water can float most vehicles and two feet of water will carry most vehicles away (including SUVs and pickups)
- Be aware of low lying areas, drainage channels, streams, or other areas where flooding is likely in your area
- In the event of any water related emergency (including flooding threatening electrical appliances) call 911!
SOURCE: FEMA
Company 5 Covering Bridgewater
Sunday, January 31, 2010: On Sunday afternoon Bridgewater and surrounding fire companies were dispatched to a working house fire in Dayton. Engine 107
marked on location with fire showing and asked for a working incident which brought Company 5 to fill quarters. Engine 54 marked en route for the station fill and
was toned to the Harrisonburg area for water flow alarms in several businesses off Interstate View Dr. Harrisonburg Engine 25 assisted with the water flow alarms.
Engine 53 filled quarters in Bridgewater and was relieved by Engine 54 after the water flow alarms were under control.
Vehicle Into a Structure
Tuesday, February 2, 2010: At 20:35 Company 5 was dispatched to Lee Highway for a vehicle into a structure. Engine 53 responded with a crew of 5. Other
companies responding were Engine 109, Squad 110, and Squad 15 from Bridgewater; Engine 207, Serve 201 and Rescue 4 from Grottoes; and Augusta Captain
12 with a building inspector from Augusta County. Captain 5 arrived on scene to find heavy damage to the vehicle and structure. Captain 5 found no injury and
placed all companies in service.
Second Major Winter Storm
Saturday, February 6, 2010: This weekend brought the second major winter storm of the season with over 2 feet of snow. The call volume for Weyers Cave was
significantly lower during this storm as many people chose to stay home. The fire company ran several traffic crashes and a handful of EMS calls during the
storm. We ask everyone who has a fire hydrant close to their house to help us by clearing out at least 2 feet from around your hydrant. Making your fire hydrant
more easily accessible helps us get a vital water supply much quicker in the event of a fire.
Three fires in 12 hours
Thursday, February 25, 2010: Structure fires are one of the more rare calls Weyers Cave is alerted to. However, this morning the WCFC was dispatched to 3
structure fires within a 12 hour period. The first fire was around 02:20 on Thursday morning on S. Eastside Highway in Grottoes. Engine 54 and Tanker 50
responded to assist Grottoes Fire with a fully involved garage fire. Weyers Cave units returned home just before 04:30. Daylight brought two more fires for the
fire company, this time in Bridgewater. Tanker 50 responded to assist with a working residential fire on Smiley Ln. around 11:00 and Engine 54 responded to
Sandstone Ln. for a small fire in a residence an hour later. Company 5 units returned from these fires in Bridgwater around 13:30.
Live burn training
Thursday, March 4, 2010: This Sunday, March 7, the fire company will be conducting a live fire training drill at 1327 Keezletown Rd. The drill will begin between
8-9AM. We will conduct live smoke and fire evolutions in the morning before allowing the building to burn. Our community is welcome to come out and observe
anytime during the morning. Those who would like to observe are asked to do so from a distance and to not approach the building during the training exercise.
We hope to see you there!
Live Burn Today
Sunday, March 7, 2010: A live burn was held this morning on Keezletown Rd just north of the firehouse. Approximately 15-20 members attended the training. A
few rookie firefighters began learning basic fire ground operations and a few new drivers worked on pump operations. All firefighters practiced fire ground
operations including throwing ladders, ventilation, forcible entry, and search/rescue. Thanks to those who came out to share their support.
Annual Banquet
Sunday, March 14th, 2010: Last night members of the fire company attended our Annual Banquet at the Grottoes Fire Department. Congratulations to Chief
Doug Wrenn in receiving the highest honor, Firefighter Of The Year. Special thanks to our guest speaker, Reverend Jerry Ruff. Also thanks to Chief Wrenn, FF
Lopes, and FF Wimer for keeping themselves available to answer calls during the celebration.
First due garage fire
Saturday, April 3, 2010: This afternoon Weyers Cave was alerted to a residential structure fire on Dices Spring Rd around 14:00. Engine 53 responded along
with Engine 54, Tanker 50; Engine 205, Tanker 209, and Utility 201 from Grottoes; Engine 109 and Truck 15 from Bridgewater; and Augusta 11. Engine 53
arrived to find a detached garage with smoke showing, Captain Ruleman took command. Lieutenant Martin assumed command and crews made a quick attack on
the fire and had it controlled within 10 minutes of dispatch. The fire was believed to have started in a riding lawn mower.
Structure Fire in Grottoes
Wednesday, March 24th, 2010: This morning WCFC was dispatched to assist Grottoes with a Structure Fire on Jollett Ln. around 09:30. WCFC responded with
Engine 54 and Tanker 50. Other companies responding were Grottoes Fire, New Hope Fire, Dooms Fire, and Grottoes Rescue. Grottoes Engine 203 arrived on
the scene to find a single wide trailer with smoke showing on sides A and C. Engine 203 marked a working incident and began attacking a fire which originated in
a clothes dryer. Grottoes got a quick knock on the fire and contained the fire to the laundry area and the adjoining hallway. Weyers Cave crews assisted with
overhaul. The fire was marked under control and units began clearing soon after.
2010 Lawn Party
Thursday May 20, 2010: Our annual lawn party will be held June 9th to 12th at the lawn party grounds behind the Weyers Cave Fire Department. The lawn
party will feature amusement rides, carnival food, bands, and more. For more information visit our calendar.
Apple Blossom Parade
Friday April 30 2010: WCFC participated in the Apple Blossom parade in Winchester tonight. We had Engine 53 lined up with apparatus from all over the east
coast. Glad to see support from those who were visiting the parade from the Shenandoah Valley!
Farewell from WCFC
Saturday, May 29, 2010: It is with deepest regret to announce the passing of Edith Groah, mother of Chief Melvin Groah. The department offers our sincere
condolences to Chief Groah and his family. The fire company will remain by your side to assist whenever necessary.
Thunderstorm Safety Reminder
Monday, May 31, 2010: As the summer approaches, the risk of severe thunderstorms is increasing. Our fire company responds to many incidents created by
severe storms including fires, lines down, trees down, flooding etc. All thunderstorms produce lightning, with some lighting being up to 10 miles ahead of the rain.
Other hazards in a thunderstorm include wind, hail, and flash flooding (with flash flooding causing more fatalities than any other hazard). The following are several
tips to help your prepare yourself and reduce these hazards during a storm:
Before the storm:
-Remove dead trees and branches which may fall during the storm
-Ensure your home is well sealed with drainage in place to move water away from the structure
-Replace any damaged windows or doors
-Move inside when the first thunder is heard
During the storm:
-Seek shelter indoors or find a low lying area, preferably in thick growth away from tall trees and bodies of water
-Stay away from windows and doors
-Do not use electrical or pluming devices during the storm
In the event of any emergency before, during, or after the storm call 911 immediately
Source: FEMA
Vehicle into a Structure
Thursday, June 3, 2010: Following a quick storm, Company 5 was dispatched to the 2500 block of Lee Highway for a Vehicle into a Structure. Other companies
dispatched included Verona Company 6, Grottoes Company 20, Grottoes Rescue 20, Augusta Duty Officer, and the Virginia State Police. Engine 54 responded
with a crew of 4 and arrived to find a Toyota Corolla into an outbuilding. No injuries were found and the scene was turned over to the State Police and Augusta
County building inspectors.
Lawn Party Week Begins
Sunday, June 6, 2010: Today several members of the fire company worked on the lawn party grounds preparing for the annual lawn party which begins this
Wednesday. The fire company will be working Monday and Tuesday to prepare for the event. Be sure to check our calendar for a list of the activities for this
year's lawn party. We hope to see you out!
Recent Graduates
Friday, June 11, 2010: The fire company would like to pass congratulations to two recent graduates. Firefighter Justin Sutherland has passed Firefighter 1 and
is now a certified Firefighter in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Additionally, Firefighter Tony Lopes has passed EMT-Enhanced. Tony is now part of our growing
list of Advanced Life Support providers. Congratulations to you both... thanks for your service to Weyers Cave.
New Medic On The Roster
Sunday, June 20, 2010: This weekend Jesse Martin passed his final testing to become a Nationally Registered EMT Intermediate. Jesse is now one of 5 active
medics in the company, on a roster with over 10 advanced life support personnel. Our Medics go through extensive training to perform advanced emergency
medical techniques including administration of intravenous cardiac medication, advanced airway management, and electrocardiography (ECG/EKG). We are
proud to see our list of ALS providers grow... Particularly in such a small, 100% volunteer company. Congratulations to our new Medic, Jesse Martin.
Engine 54 Runs 2nd Alarm to Harrisonburg
Thursday, June 24, 2010: Today at 10:30 the Harrisonburg Fire Department was dispatched to Bayberry Ln. for a reported townhouse fire in college housing.
Engine 26 arrived on scene with fire showing on side charlie. Engine 54 responded to Harrisonburg Fire Station 1 for a station fill. Harrisonburg Chief 1 had
command of the fire and requested a second alarm... bringing Engine 54 to the scene. Crews from Weyers Cave worked out of the bucket on the Tower Ladder
and worked overhaul on the 2nd floor of the fire structure. Units responding included 10 Engine Companies, 2 Trucks, 3 Ambulances, 1 Medic Unit, 3 Chief
Officers, and 2 Fire Marshalls. Engine 54 returned to Weyers Cave at 13:00.
Storm Brings 12 Calls in Two Hours
Thursday, June 24, 2010: Today around 16:00 hours a severe storm approached the northern end of Augusta County. This quick passing storm produced rain
and wind. Company 5 responded to 12 calls during the storm. Companies found some of the most severe damage along Fadley Rd. While not confirmed by The
National Weather Service, local residents reported seeing a funnel cloud in the area. Below are pictures of wind damage in the Centerville Area on Fadley Rd.
Hay Bail Fire
Tuesday, June 29, 2010: At approximately 12:15 companies were dispatched to the 5500 blk of Williams Run Rd. for a reported hay bail fire. A field fire and
several hay bail fires were found in the area, bringing in assistance from surrounding companies. Companies responding included Company 5, Harrisonburg
Station 41, Grottoes Company 20, Bridgewater Company 15, Singers Glen Company 75, Grottoes Rescue 20, and the Virginia Department of Forestry
First In On A Second Due Brush Fire
Saturday, July 10, 2010: At approximately 17:00 Company 5 was dispatched to the area of mile 231 Northbound on Interstate 81 for a grass fire. Initial response
was Engine 54, Tanker 50, and Mini Pumper 61 from Verona. Engine 54 was first in and Captain 5 reported a 2 acre fire near Dam Town Rd. Captain 5 assumed
command. Fire conditions warranted extra resources, bringing in Brush 55 from Weyers Cave, Engine 105 and Tanker 109 from the Staunton Area, Tanker 209
from Grottoes, Car 6 from Verona, and Augusta 11. The fire was controlled and units returned in about one hour. The interstate was shut down for a short time
while crews attacked the fire.
Weyers Cave Assists With Large Fire in Grottoes
Thursday, July 22, 2010: On Thursday evening Grottoes Fire responded to the T & B Pallet Company for a reported fire in wood mulch and sawdust piles.
Grottoes arrived to find heavy fire in tall piles of wood mulch. Company 5 sent Brush 55 and Tanker 50 as part of a three alarm assignment to help control the
fire. Crews had a good knock on the fire around sun down, but the wood piles smoldered well into the night.
Cut Job for Company 5
Saturday, July 24, 2010: Early morning Saturday, Company 5 was alerted to a single vehicle rollover in th 6800 Blk of Cross Keys Rd. in Rockingham County.
The caller reported a white vehicle had ran off the road rolling over it's top several times. Engine 53 responded with Grottoes Rescue 5 and arrived to find the
below vehicle setting on it's wheels. Captain 5 confirmed entrapment and assumed command. The patient was extricated and stabilized within 20 minutes and
transported to RMH.
Engine 53 Brings Home 3 Trophies
Tuesday, August 3th, 2010: Engine 53 traveled to the Millboro Volunteer Fire Department in Millboro, Virginia on July 31st to participate in their Fireman's
Carnival Parade. Engine 53 did very well in this parade bringing home three trophies. Engine 53 won awards for:
- Judges Choice- Best in Parade
- Best Appearing Municipal Fire Engine
- Fire Apparatus Traveling Longest Distance
Overnight Rollover
Tuesday, August 10th, 2010: At approximately 03:00, WCFC was dispatched to the 3000 block of Lee Highway for a traffic crash. Engine 53 arrived to find a
single vehicle rollover. There was no victim at the scene. After a survey of the area the scene was turned over to the Virginia State Police and all units went in
service.
Weyers Cave Firefighters Participate in Burn Camp
Thursday, August 12th, 2010: Firefighters from Weyers Cave participated in the 2010 Mid Atlantic Burn camp today at Camp Brethren Woods in Rockingham
County. The Mid Atlantic Burn Camp seeks to provide support to young burn survivors and their families. This group of volunteers holds a burn camp every
summer for children whoch have survived burn injuries. This year firefighters from Company 5 participated in the event and Chief Wrenn provided his personal
fire engine for the children to see. Thanks to Wanda Willis (Harrisonburg Fire Department) for the pictures. http://www.midatlanticburncamp.org/
Crash Causes Long Morning Backup
Thursday, November 4th, 2010: On Thursday morning around 04:40 Company 5 was dispatched to the interstate at the 232 southbound for a reported two
vehicle traffic crash. Engine 53 responded with a medic on board. Engine 53 arrived to find a traffic crash involving a tractor trailer which had completely blocked
southbound traffic. After a quick assessment of Company 5 personnel found three for checkout. One patient was transported to the hospital. Engine 53
remained on the scene for nearly two hours while traffic remained blocked. The tractor and trailer was removed and normal traffic resumed just before 07:00.
Vehicle Fire on the Interstate
Sunday, November 7th, 2010: This morning the Company 5 was dispatched to the interstate with Verona Company 6 for a vehicle fire at the 232.9
southbound. Augusta ECC reported a vehicle pulling a camper to be on fire on the shoulder. Engine 53 was on the street returning from a call when alerted to
the fire. Engine 53 responded immediately with Tanker 50 responding shortly after. Engine 53 arrived to find a pickup truck with flames from the bed threatening
the camper, Asst. Chief Ruff took command. The camper was removed from the truck and Company 5 crews attacked the fire with a dry chemical extinguisher and
1 ¾ hand line. The fire was marked in control within five minutes of marking on scene.
Engine 54 Runs to Harrisonburg for a Fire
Tuesday November 9th, 2010: In the early morning on Tuesday, Harrisonburg Fire responded to a structure fire on S Main St. just before the city limits.
Company 5 was dispatched to fill Harrisonburg Fire Station 1. Engine 54 responded to Station 1, but was redirected to the fire. Engine 54 met with Company 5
personnel on scene and staffed a backup line on side C of the structure. Once Harrisonburg crews got the fire
under control Engine 54 was released from the scene.
Vehicle into Structure
Saturday, November 13th, 2010: This morning Company 5 was dispatched to assist Bridgewater Fire with a vehicle into a structure on Mountain View Dr. The
caller originally reported smoke in a structure which wasthen determined to be from a vehicle that had crashed into the garage area. Company 5 sent a crew on
Engine 54. Other companies responding included Bridgewater Rescue, Hose Company #4, and Grottoes Fire with a technical rescue trailer.
Holiday Traffic on Interstate
Friday, November 19th, 2010: Interstate 81 was busier than unusual today with universities releasing for Thanksgiving break and families getting a head start
on their vacation. There were dozens of accidents reported on the interstate this afternoon causing long backups. At around 5PM Weyers Cave was dispatched
to the 239 northbound for a truck/trailer vs. a small vehicle. Engine 53 responded with Bridgewater Fire, Grottoes Rescue, Bridgewater Rescue, and Harrisonburg
Rescue with the squad truck. One patient was transported and both northbound lanes were blocked for 45 minutes.
Working Fire in Mount Crawford
Saturday, November 20th, 2010: On Saturday evening Weyers Cave was dispatched to Fairview Rd. in Mount Crawford for a structure fire. Prevention 90
marked on scene with heavy fire from the second story, Assistant Chief 15 took command. Company 5 responded with Engine 54, Engine 52, and Tanker 50.
Other companies responding were Bridgewater Fire, Hose Company #4, Bridgewater Rescue, and RCFR Chief 90. Weyers Cave crews remained on scene for 2-
3 hours.
Vehicle vs. Horse
Wednesday, December 29th, 2010: Engine 53 responded to the 2700 Block of Lee Hwy for a crash involving a vehicle and an animal.
Engine 53 arrived to find a pickup truck with heavy front end damage. The vehicle was secured and no injuries were found.
Aircraft Incident
Friday, December 31st, 2010: On New Years Eve around 2:30PM, Company 5 was dispatched to an aircraft emergency. 911 callers reported a collision
between a small airplane and a helicopter just north of the 800 Blk of Weyers Cave Road, near the Shenandoah Regional Airport (SHD). Company 5 responded
with Engine 53 and Brush 55, Chief 5 took command. Crews found a Cessna 172h down just south of Weyers Cave Rd. This plane and Aircare 5 (our air medical
helicopter out of SHD) had collided. Two fatalities were found in the plane and SHD reported the helicopter to land safely at the airport. The NTSB is currently in
the area investigating the accident.
NTSB Report Released
Sunday, January 16th, 2011: The NTSB has been in the Weyers Cave area for several weeks investigating the New Years Eve aircraft incident. They have
now released a preliminary report on the incident. This report can be found at www.ntsb.gov.
Barn Fire
Thursday, June 9th, 2011: Tonight our lawn party was partially interrupted by a severe storm that brought rain, hail, and lightning through the area. Shortly
after the storm Company 5 was dispatched for a smoke investigation off Fadley Rd. Engines 54, 52, and Tanker 50 responded. When units got in the area they
found heavy black smoke off Coffman Rd. While driving up Coffman Rd. Engine 54 saw what appeared to be a barn on fire and requested ECC fill out a structure
fire assignment. Engine 54 arrived to find a barn fully involved, FF Dales took command. With limited access, crews had to hike back to the barn and found the
structure nearly on the ground. Command released companies from Bridgewater and Grottoes and Engine 54 stayed to monitor for extension.
|
|
