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FIELD SERVICES NEWS RELEASES Amy Maxwell Public Information Officer (423) 209-6900
February 8, 2010 House Fire in Harrison Area
Tonight, a Harrison resident will be staying at a
hotel due to his home destroyed by fire. At 5:45 pm, Mr. Everett Sims
called 9-1-1 to report a house fire at 11310 Melanie Lane (Harrison
area). Highway 58 Volunteer Fire Department responded and arrived on the
scene reporting fully involved fire throughout the entire house. Chief
Danny Wright, Highway 58 VFD, reported several explosions occurred
blowing debris several hundred feet. Chief Wright said the homeowner had
a propane heater in the living room. Mr. Sims just filled the heater and
lit the heater and walked into the other room of the house. Moments
later, he heard a loud explosion coming from the living room area. He
went to investigate and saw fire on the furniture. Mr. Sims attempted to
put the fire out but was unsuccessful. He escaped with no injuries.
Chief Wright reported the fire accidental and damages are listed as
$150,000. Mr. Sim's home is a total loss. No injuries were reported but
Hamilton County EMS was on the scene for any potential injuries. February 3, 2010 Townhouse Fire on Signal Mountain
This morning, Signal Mountain Fire Department was able to stop a fire from spreading to the adjacent town homes. At 10:00 am, a 9-1-1 call was made reporting a fire at 802 Signal Mountain Blvd. Town home #121 (Jamestowne town homes). Signal Mountain arrived on the scene and reporting fire coming out the front window of the town home. Once firefighters confirmed everyone was out of the home, they immediately conducted an interior attack and stopped the fire from spreading to the adjacent town homes. Walden's Ridge Emergency Services responded to the scene to assist Signal Mtn. Fire Department. Dallas Bay Volunteer Fire Department and Red Bank Fire Department also responded to Signal Mountain to fill in assignments for emergency calls. Damages are estimated at $100,000. According the Chief John Vlasis, Signal Mountain Fire Department, reporting "the fire appears to be accidental but will be under investigation by Signal Mountain Fire Department". No injuries were reported.
February 1, 2010 Hamilton County Mayor Kicks off "ALERT Hamilton County" Campaign On Monday, February 1, 2010 at 10:00 am Mayor Claude Ramsey announced the kick off campaign for “ALERT Hamilton County” at the 9-1-1 Center Lobby (3404 Amnicola Highway)
.Hamilton County
Emergency Management in partnership with Hamilton County 9-1-1 Emergency
Communications, the Local Emergency Planning Committee, and Hamilton
County 911 has implemented a mass notification system. “ALERT
Hamilton County
“has the capability to rapidly contact county residents and businesses
via recorded phone messages, text messages, or e-mail messages in case
of emergency. Register at: www.hamiltontn.gov
(Mayor Claude Ramsey and Director Don Allen brief the media about this Emergency System.) January 26, 2010 Hamilton County Mayor recognizes Fire Personnel
On Tuesday, January 26, 2010 at 1:30 pm,
Mayor Claude Ramsey recognized four individuals who completed the
highest level of Certification in Specialized Hazardous Materials within
Hamilton County. Chief Tony Reavley and Lt. Buddy Kamin with Hamilton
County Emergency Services and Lt. Kenny Custer with East Ridge Fire
Department received their certificate from the Mayor. Captain Philip
Hyman with Chattanooga Fire Department was not present.
(Left to Right: Mayor Claude Ramsey, Chief Tony Reavley, Lt. Buddy Kamin and Lt. Kenny Custer) These individuals are “individuals who respond with and provide support to hazardous materials technicians”. Their duties parallel those of the hazardous materials technician, however, those duties require a more directed or specific knowledge of the various substances they may be called upon to contain. The hazardous materials specialist would also act as the site liaison with Federal, state, local and other government authorities in regards to site activities. Hazardous materials specialists shall have competency in the following areas:
Understand in-depth hazard and risk techniques.
HOURS OF TRAINING: 4 LEVELS OF HAZMAT TRAINING
TOTAL 368 Hours
January 20, 2010 Tri-Community Volunteer Fire Department makes quick stop on a fire
Tri-Community Volunteer Fire Department saves an apartment unit from burning to the ground! At 10:30 am, a 9-1-1 call came in reporting a fire at Spring Green Apartment Complex #405 at 5075 Ooltewah-Ringgold Road. Tri-Community VFD arrived on the scene within minutes reporting heavy smoke and fire coming from the front apartment window. Once firefighters were clear that everyone was out of the apartment unit, they conducted a quick interior attack on the fire in apartment #405. Chief Thomason, Tri-Community VFD reported," the firefighters did an outstanding job putting the fire out. They contained the fire to #405 apartment and kept the fire from burning into the attic or the firewall." According to the Fire Marshall, Chief Amory Planchard, the fire will be ruled undetermined and accidental. The fire started in the living room area. Eight families were displaced and will be taken care of by the American Red Cross. Damages are estimated at $100,000
December 11, 2009 House Fire in Dallas Bay area
Quick work by Dallas Bay Volunteer Fire Department by saving a house from burning to the ground last night. At 6:30 pm, Brandy Hughett and her 2 children sat down to have dinner. She noticed that her TV turned off automatically and proceeded to turn the TV back on when she noticed smoke pouring in from the ceiling area. She went to investigate the smoke, opened the back door and saw fire creeping up the side of the house. Ms. Hughett and her 2 children escaped unharmed and immediately called 9-1-1 to report a house fire at 901 Valleywood Drive. Dallas Bay Volunteer Fire Department responded and arrived on the scene within minutes reporting flames coming from the rear of the house and rolling over the roofline. Once firefighters confirmed that everyone was out of the house, they conducted a defensive attack on the back side of the house and an interior attack on the front of the house. Chief Marcus Fritts, Dallas Bay VFD, said “we were able to contain the fire to the dining room area within a few minutes.” Fritts confirmed the fire started on the back porch because the burn patterns went from outside to inside the house. The cause of the fire is unknown but Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office will be on the scene today to sift through the burn ruins of the house. No injuries were reported but Hamilton County EMS was on the scene for any potential injuries. Damages are estimated at $50,000 and Ms. Hughett and Mr. Greg Polk were insured. They will be staying with family members.
December 1, 2009 House Fire in Dallas Bay area This morning, a gentleman escapes a fire without injuries at 7316 Cline Road (Dallas Bay area). At 1:00 am, the homeowner, Mark Potter, awoke to smoke and his bedroom door on fire. He immediately opened the bedroom window and jumped outside into the front yard. He ran to his father’s house, which was next door, to call 9-1-1.
Chief Marcus Fritts, Dallas Bay Volunteer Fire Department (VFD), reported the first engine was on the scene in 6 minutes and confirmed smoke and fire coming out the front window of the house. When the firefighters was clear that everyone was accounted for, they immediately conducted an interior attack in the house and contained the fire to the living room area. Chief Fritts said, “firefighters had one heck of a knockdown and were able to extinguish the fire within 6 minutes and save the house without any water damage by using CAFS, a compressed foam system”. CAFS works quickly by smothering the fire without using water. Two years ago, Dallas Bay VFD purchased a new engine which included CAFS on this particular engine. Chief Fritts mentioned, “the response and arrival time was so quick due to having the stations “housed” 24 hours a day with volunteer firefighters. We have four firefighters that live at Station Two. Those four firemen were the first ones to arrive on the scene and started fighting fire without hooking a hose line to a fire hydrant. CAFS can be used with the water on the fire engine. This particular engine holds 1,000 gallons of water and we only used 200 gallons. In these rural areas, such as Falling Water and parts of Dallas Bay where fire hydrants can be up to two miles apart from each other, this CAFS system helped extinguish the blaze faster and save Mr. Potter’s house ”, said Chief Fritts. No injuries were reported but Hamilton County EMS was on the scene for any potential injuries. According to Chief Fritts, damages are estimated at $10,000. The cause of the fire is undetermined but Chief Fritts reported the fire did start in the living room area near the fire place. Mr. Potter was insured and will temporarily be staying with his father. The cause of the fire will be under investigation by the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office.
November 9, 2009 Apartment Fire in Red Bank
Quick response by Red Bank Fire Department
this morning who responded to an apartment fire at Sweetland View
Apartments. (210 Hendricks Blvd Apt. 15) Red Bank Fire Chief, Mark
Matthews, reported that once firefighters entered the apartment, fire
was coming from a back bedroom. Firefighters extinguished the fire
within minutes and kept the fire from spreading to several adjacent
apartments. No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire is
undetermined and will be under investigation by the Red Bank Fire
Department. Several apartments received damage. Ruby Fant, the renter of
Apartment 15, had the most fire damage. Two apartments received smoke
damage and one received water damage. Overall damages estimated at
$75,000. Ms. Fant did have renter's insurance.
August 4, 2009 Highway 58 Volunteer Fire Department Station 5 Dedication The Highway 58 Volunteer Fire Department celebrates the official opening of its latest fire hall Tuesday evening, August 4th. The new facility is the department’s fifth hall. The brand new building will house six firefighting vehicles and be serviced by ten volunteer firefighters. The 5,600 square foot facility was built by the Hamilton County Maintenance Department. Funding for the facility and equipment for the fire hall came from Hamilton County’s Bond Issues. The land was donated by the family of the late Dr. Charles Byles, a long time Hamilton County veterinarian. Hamilton County Mayor Claude Ramsey says dedicating a building like this is one of the better parts of his job.
“Every day that government works to make peoples lives better is a good day. This is a very good day. Building fire halls, schools and bringing industry and jobs to the community is a great reward because we are improving people’s lives. I appreciate the dedication of every volunteer firefighter and their commitment to our community.” The new fire hall located at Cooley Road and Birchwood Pike will serve residents in the Ware Branch area. Until the new fire hall was constructed, the nearest fire hall was five miles away. Highway 58 Volunteer Firefighters Chief “Dude” Harris says the response time will be much quicker. “Two to three minutes will be the average response time now. Previously it was 8 to 10 minutes, this quicker response time is vital in our effort to save lives and homes.” Hamilton County Commissioner Bill Hullander championed the effort to build this new fire hall. Commissioner Hullander says, “Insurance was being cancelled and the rates were going up in the area, so six years ago we started looking at this to help the people who were losing their insurance. We are delighted to be here dedicating this fire hall.” The Highway 58 Volunteer Fire Department was formed in 1974. There are currently 65 volunteer firefighters serving in the department.
July 28, 2009 House Fire Ooltewah Area This morning, fire destroys a home in the Ooltewah area. At 2:42 am, neighbor calls 9-1-1 reporting heavy smoke and fire at 8512 Maple Wood Trail (Ooltewah area). Tri-Community Volunteer Fire Department responded and arrived on the scene confirming fully-involved house fire with flames coming through the roof. Chief Steve Wright, Tri-Community VFD, reported the house had been vacant for the last two months. The house was in the stages of foreclosure. According to the neighbors, no one had been living in the house for two months and the electricity had been turned off several months ago. No injuries were reported but Hamilton County EMS was on the scene for any potential injuries. Damages are estimated to be about $150-$175,000. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Department.
Joint Training Exercise in Hamilton County
By: Patrick Kellem
May 12, 2009 Firefighter I and II Graduation
On Tuesday, May 12, 2009 at, 7:00p.m., Chamberlain Memorial Baptist Church (South Access Road), Hamilton County Emergency Services Training Division held their graduating ceremonies for those firefighters who had completed 280 hours of Firefighter I and Firefighter II courses. Twenty-six fire cadets represented several agencies including Red Bank Fire Department, Highway 58 Volunteer Fire Department (VFD), East Ridge Fire Department, Walden’s Ridge Emergency Services, Brayton VFD, Soddy Daisy Fire Department, Sequoyah VFD, and Sale Creek VFD.
(Pictured Left to Right:) Amy Maxwell, PIO; Lt, Jody Clift, Lt. Buddy Kamin, Captain Rip Rohen and Chief Tony Reavley.
April 8, 2009 Tri-Community Fire
A family is having to stay with family members
tonight after losing their house to fire. At 2:00 pm, a 9-1-1 call was
received reporting a house fire at 8178 Stillwell Circle ( Stillwell
subdivision in the Ooltewah area). Tri-Community Volunteer Fire
Department responded and arrived on the scene reporting heavy smoke and
fire coming through the roof and the back of the house.. According to
Tri-Community VFD Fire Marshall, Amory Planchard, " we requested a
Mutual Aid response for additional units and manpower. Highway 58 VFD
and Catoosa County Fire Department responded to the scene to assist us."
The firefighters immediately went to an exterior attack until it was
safe enough for an interior attack on the fire.
March 18, 2009 Director Don Allen receives Certificate of Appreciation by Hamilton County Commission
The plaque states, " It is with deep appreciation that we offer on behalf of the Hamilton County Board of Commissioners, our heartfelt thanks for your performance and dedicated service to the citizens of Chattanooga and Hamilton County. Your trusted leadership had been tremendous not only in Hamilton County, but also for the State of Tennessee as the most recent recipient of the Emergency Manager of the Year Award. This is the highest award given at the Emergency Management Association of Tennessee Conference, recently held in the fall of 2008. The principles of dedication, support, commitment, and integrity by which you lead the Hamilton County Emergency Services are a shining light and a tremendous example to those of us that live in Hamilton County that you believe in something, care about something, stand for something. Our county is extremely proud of your accomplishments, awards and splendid reputation."
March 3, 2009 House Fire in Red Bank This morning, a family in Red Bank looses everything to a fire. At 9:15 am, a neighbor called 9-1-1 reporting a house fire at 3222 Redding Road (Red Bank area). Red Bank Fire Department responded and arrived on the scene reporting heavy smoke and fire coming from the left side of the house. Unsure if occupants of the house were accounted for, firefighters conducted a quick search throughout the house. Within minutes, firefighters moved to an interior attack to contain the fire from spreading throughout the entire house and was under control within 15 minutes. Red Bank Fire Department requested a Mutual Aid response. Soddy Daisy Fire Department and Walden’s Ridge Emergency Services responded to assist Red Bank Fire Department with manpower. According to the renter, Albert Minor, reported his four year old son came running into his bedroom stating his bed was on fire. Mr. Minor tried to extinguish the fire but was unsuccessful. They escaped without injury but Mr. Minor did suffer from minor smoke inhalation. He was treated on the scene by Hamilton County EMS. No other injuries were reported. The cause of the fire is undetermined and will be under investigation by the Red Bank Fire Department. The house was owned by Mr. Lester Burnette. Mr. Burnette was insured and valued the house at $110,000. The family will be receiving assistance from the American Red Cross. The family had no renter’s insurance. Red Bank Fire Department was assisted by Soddy Daisy Fire Department, Walden’s Ridge Emergency Services, Hamilton County EMS and Red Bank Police Department.
February 24, 2009
Captain Dot Vick retires after 46 years of service with Hamilton County Government. Up to her retirement, Captain Vick had worked for Hamilton County Emergency Services since 1988.
(Left to Right) Hamilton County Commission Chairman, Jim Coppinger, Chief Tony Reavley, Captain Dot Vick, Director Don Allen and 9-1-1 Director, John Stuemer
Director Don Allen presents Captain Vick with a plaque for her 46 years of service to Hamilton County
Hamilton County Mayor Claude Ramsey officially declares February 24th "Captain Dot Vick Day".
February 16, 2009 House Fire in Georgetown This afternoon, a family in Georgetown looses everything to a fire. At noon, a neighbor calls 9-1-1 reporting a house fire at 7219 Gamble Road. Highway 58 Volunteer Fire Department (VFD) responded and arrived on the scene reporting heavy smoke and fire on the front of the house and the roofline. Unsure if occupants of the house were accounted for, firefighters conducted a quick search through the back side of the house. Within minutes, firefighters moved to a defensive attack to contain the fire from spreading to brush and debris near by. According to the homeowners, Ronnie and Angie Gann, they left the house around 11:30 a.m. to take their child to the doctor. The Gann’s were eventually notified by Mrs. Gann’s mother who told her their house was on fire. Assistant Chief, Danny Wright, Highway 58 VFD, confirmed the fire started by an electrical malfunction in the front living room area. Damages are estimated in $85,000. No injuries were reported but Hamilton County EMS was on the scene for potential injuries. The Gann’s and their four children will be receiving assistance from the American Red Cross. The family had no insurance. Highway 58 VFD was assisted by Hamilton County EMS and Hamilton County Sheriff’s Department.
October 29, 2008 Special Tactics and Rescue Services celebrate 25 years of service.
(Left to Right: Asst. Chief, Buddy Kamin: 25 years; Clay Ingle: 25 years; Chief Jim Poplin: 25 years and Deputy Chief, Bobby Farr: 20 years)
October 7, 2008
Tennessee Fire Chief's Association awards Director Don Allen "Emergency Manager of the Year"
Gary West, Tennessee Fire Chief's Association Mutual Aid Team, presented a plaque to Don Allen, Director of Emergency Services, for Emergency Manager of the Year at the Emergency Management Association of Tennessee (EMAT) conference. The Tennessee Fire Chief's Association selected Director Allen in appreciation for his dedication, support, and commitment to the State-Wide Mutual Aid Project.
August 6, 2008 Walden's Ridge House Fire This morning, a Signal Mountain family looses everything to a house fire. At 5:04 a.m., a 9-1-1 call was received reporting a house fire at 3301 Wilson Avenue (Signal Mountain area). Walden’s Ridge Emergency Services responded and arrived on the scene within minutes reporting fire showing on the left side of the house. Captain Sib Evans, Walden’s Ridge Emergency Services, stated the firefighters attacked the front door area until the roof became unstable and evacuated the front porch before the roof collapsed. Firefighters began a “defensive attack” and contained the fire in 45 minutes. According to Mrs. Bobby Williams, the house renter, awoke to the smell of smoke. They got up to investigate the smell of smoke and noticed fire showing into the corner of the kitchen area. They immediately evacuated the house and called 9-1-1. No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire is undetermined and will be under investigation by the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Department. Captain Evans stated the fire started on the left corner of the house. Damages are estimated at $100,000. Ms. Williams did not have renters insurance but the American Red Cross will be assisting her family with their immediate needs. Walden’s Ridge Emergency Services were assisted by Signal Mountain Fire Department, Red Bank Fire Department, Dallas Bay Volunteer Fire Department and the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Department.
May 13, 2008 FFI and II Graduation On Tuesday, May 13, 2008, 7:00p.m., Chamberlain Memorial Baptist Church (South Access Road), Hamilton County Emergency Services Training Division held Graduating Ceremonies for those firefighters who had completed 280 hours of Firefighter I and Firefighter II courses. Twenty-eight fire cadets represented several agencies including Dallas Bay Volunteer Fire Department (VFD), East Ridge Fire Department, Walden’s Ridge Emergency Services, Kimball VFD, Soddy Daisy Fire Department, Highway 58 VFD, Sequoyah VFD, Lone Oak VFD, Sale Creek VFD, Flat Top VFD, and Lookout Mountain Fire Department.
Hamilton County Fire Training Staff. Pictured Left to Right: Captain Rip Rohen, Lt. Jody Clift, Chief Tony Reavley, Lt. Buddy Kamin and Amy Maxwell.
April 24, 2008
2nd House Burns On Buck Trail Drive
within Hours
No injuries were reported, but
Hamilton County EMS was on the scene for any potential injuries.
April 24, 2008 Woolwine Home At Harrison
Destroyed By Fire; Sports Memorabilia Lost
Mr. Woolwine, a former sports
editor at the Chattanooga News Free Press, said he was grateful that no
one was home and that there were no injuries. However, he said he was
devastated at the loss of a valuable and extensive sports memorabilia
collection and records of sports stories that he covered over the years.
Among those items were autographed papers of sports notables like the
late Reggie White.
April 17, 2008 House fire in the Harrison/Ooltewah area
Fire destroyed a family's home in
the Highway 58 area. At 1:00 p.m. a 9-1-1 call was made reporting a
house fire at 10388 Baker Boy Drive. Highway 58 Volunteer Fire
Depaetment responded and arrived on the scene reporting heavy smoke and
fire through the roof. Highway 58 VFD immediately called for mutual aid.
Tri-Community VFD responded to assist with additional apparatus and
manpower.
March 12, 2008
9-1-1 Unification Ceremony for Collegedale, Red Bank and Signal Mountain
The City of Collegedale, Red Bank and Signal Mountain will sign a unification agreement this morning at 10:00 a.m. at the Hamilton County 9-1-1 Center on Amnicola Highway. The agreement will allow the 9-1-1 district to move forward with plans to have the county’s emergency dispatch systems operating under “one roof” by November 2008.
Left to Right: Hamilton County Mayor, Claude Ramsey; Signal Mountain Mayor, Paul Headrick; Director of Emergency Services, Don Allen; Mayor of Red Bank, Joe Glasscock; Mayor of East Ridge, Mike Steele and Mayor of Chattanooga, Ron Littlefield.
Standing Left to Right: Mike Mahn, William Loftis,
Chief Freeman Cooper, Larry Lyda, Daisy Madison, Dan Collyer, Chief
Eddie Phillips, Chief Allen Branham, Wes Floyd, Dennis Norwood, Honna
Rogers, John Stermer
February 12, 2008: Duplex Fire in Red Bank This morning, Red Bank Fire Department contained a duplex fire from spreading to the next door unit within fire minutes. At 9:50 a.m. a 9-1-1 called was received by a neighbor reporting a fire at 3207 Joselin Lane (Red Bank area). Red Bank Fire Department responded and arrived on the scene reporting heavy smoke and fire coming from the back side of the duplex. Fire personnel extinguished the blaze and contained the fire to the kitchen area. No injuries were reported but Hamilton County EMS was on the scene for potential injuries. No one was home at the time of the fire broke out. According to Red Bank FD Deputy Chief, Jimmy Burnette, estimated damages to be about $30,000 containing room and contents. Most of the damage is contained to the kitchen area. At this time, it is unclear how the fire started but will be under investigation by the Red Bank Department.
February 11, 2008: House Fire in Hidden Harbour Subdivision At 1:30 p.m., a smoldering fire caused heavy damage Monday to a home in the Hidden Harbour neighborhood on Lake Meadows Drive. Homeowner Jonathan Jennings got a fire alarm call from his alarm company and asked his neighbor to check his home. By that time, there were flames shooting out of the side of the home. That is when the neighbor called 9-1-1. Investigators say the fire had been smoldering for some time with no visible signs of fire. Firefighters think it started near the fireplace, which Mr. Jennings said is odd because he has not used the fireplace the entire year he has lived there. The damage is estimated at $60,000. The large ceilings in the home allowed the fire to stay concealed from neighbors and passers-by for longer than normal. That contributed to the large amount of damage.
January 30, 2008: House Fire on Walden's Ridge
Yesterday, a million dollar home on Walden’s Ridge was saved with minor damage. At 1:30 p.m., a neighbor called 9-1-1 reporting a house fire at 6100 Forest Drive on Walden’s Ridge. Walden’s Ridge Emergency Services (WRES) responded and arrived on the scene reporting heavy smoke and fire coming out of the garage. WRES personnel began fire suppression and search and rescue efforts. Due to the large fire potentially spreading throughout the house, Chief Randall Hawkins, WRES, requested mutual aid response from Signal Mountain Fire Department and Red Bank Fire Department to assist with this fire. Chief Hawkins reported the fire started around the area of the heating and air unit located on the outside of the garage. The cause of the fire is undetermined and will be under investigation by WRES. No injuries were reported. No one was home at the time of the fire. Damages are reported at $150,000.
January 16, 2008: Highway 58 Volunteer Fire Department has groundbreaking for Fire Station #5 At 2:00 p.m. today, Highway 58 Volunteer Fire Department and Hamilton County Government commenced the groundbreaking of Fire Station #5. This station will be located on the corner of Cooley Road and Birchwood Pike (Harrison area). Commissioner Bill Hullendar and County Mayor Claude Ramsey gave a special “Thanks” to Mrs. Dorothy Byles, her late husband, Dr. Byles and son, James Byles, for donating the property to Hamilton County Government. Mayor Ramsey and Commissioner Hullendar also extended their gratitude to the Chief Charles Harris, Highway 58 VFD, and his fire personnel for their excellent service they provide for the Highway 58 area.
Left to Right: Chief Charles Harris, Highway 58 Volunteer Fire Department; Chief Tony Reavley, Hamilton County Emergency Services; Don Crabtree, Highway 58 Board of Directors; Bill Bennett, Hamilton County Property of Assessor, Mrs. Dorothy Byles, James Byles; County Mayor Claude Ramsey; Commissioner Bill Hullander; Don Allen, Director of Emergency Services; Worth Lillard, Hamilton County Maintenance Department.
January 8, 2008:
The City of Chattanooga, Hamilton County Government, and the City of East Ridge signed a unification agreement this morning at the Hamilton County 9-1-1 Center on Amnicola Highway. The agreement will allow the 9-1-1 district to move forward with plans to have the county’s emergency dispatch systems operating under “one roof” by November 2008. December 22, 2007: On Saturday, December 22, 2008 at 8:00 a.m. at the Training Center (9100 Snow Hill Road) Highway 58 Volunteer Fire Department will be delivering toys and food to the residents of the Highway 58 area. According to Chief Charles Harris, Highway 58 VFD, they will be delivering gifts to 225 children and delivering food to 85 families in time for Christmas. This Toy Drive will be Highway 58 VFD’s 25th year of helping families during the holiday season. Chief Harris explained the money, which was used to buy the toys and food, was saved throughout the year with the “Blue Grass Benefits” that are held at the Training Center.
December 18, 2007: Practice Fire Safety This Holiday Season Each year fires occurring during the holiday season claim the lives of over 400 people, injure 1,650 more, and cause over $990 million in damage. The United States Fire Administration (USFA) reminds everyone there are simple life-saving steps you can take to ensure a safe and happy holiday. By following the recommended precautionary tips of the USFA, individuals can greatly reduce their chances of becoming a holiday fire casualty. On behalf of Hamilton County Emergency Services, we desire for everyone to enjoy a safe and happy holiday season in 2007. The USFA has joined with other organizations, like Hamilton County Emergency Services, to provide these easy to use and understand safety precautions. Following these simple precautions, will ensure firefighters and communities to avoid tragic and sad losses from fires. It might surprise some that cooking equipment, most often a range or stovetop, is the leading cause of reported home fires and home fire injuries in the United States. Cooking equipment is also the leading cause of unreported fires and associated injuries. Serious injury or even death can occur when people cook wearing loose clothing (especially hanging sleeves), walk away from a cooking pot on the stove, or leave flammable materials, such as potholders or paper towels, around the stove. Whether you are cooking the family holiday dinner or a snack for the children, practicing safe cooking behaviors will help keep you and your family safe. Additionally, more than one-third of Americans use fireplaces, wood stoves and other fuel-fired appliances as primary heat sources in their homes. Unfortunately, many people are unaware of the fire risks when heating with wood and solid fuels. Heating fires account for 36% of residential home fires in rural areas every year. Often these fires are due to creosote buildup in chimneys and stovepipes. All home heating systems require regular maintenance to function safely and efficiently. Finally, as in every season, have working smoke alarms installed on every level of your home, test them monthly and keep them clean and equipped with fresh batteries at all times. Know when and how to call for help. And remember to practice your home escape plan.
December 6, 2007 Highway 58 Volunteer Fire Department adds new ladder truck to their fleet
Thursday, December 6, 2007 at 10:00 a.m., Highway 58 Volunteer Fire Department (VFD) will put a new 75-foot ladder truck in service at Station One (located on Highway 58). The 2007 model Central States truck was manufactured in Lyons, South Dakota. This truck will be the 30th emergency vehicle available for fighting fires in the Highway 58 area. This 75-foot ladder truck will be used for high fire flows of water (1,000 gallons per minute) and as a multi-purpose rescues up to 75 feet. According to Chief Charles Harris, the addition of the new ladder truck, and a new fire station on the drawing board, should help lower the area Insurance Service Organization (ISO) fire rating to a five. A lower rating by the ISO would benefit Highway 58 homeowners by having their insurance companies lower their rates. Chief Harris said, “this new ladder truck will benefit the Highway 58 community tremendously. We cover 112 square miles for emergency calls. There are many large buildings including churches, schools and large homes along the lake. Without this ladder truck, it is a challenge for these firefighters to gain access to these high buildings to fight a fire.” Some 15,000 households are served by the Highway 58 Volunteer Fire Department. Approximately, 4,100 of these are subscribers to the department, If the department were to respond to a fire of a non-subscriber, it could cost the homeowner as much as $2,500.00 for firefighters and equipment. A subscription costs only $75.00 per year.
November 17, 2007 Dallas Bay Volunteer Fire Department adds additional apparatus to their fleet
On Saturday, November 17, 2007 at 10:00 a.m. at Station Two (1950 McConnell School Road) Dallas Bay Volunteer Fire Department put a 2007 W.S. Darley CAFS pumper into service. This pumper carries 1,000 gallons of water and provides 1,500 gallons per minute of flow. It also, is equipped with foam eduction system and compressed air foam system to extend the water capabilities of the truck. This truck has the normal capabilities to pump water or use the injected foam feature along with the CAFS feature providing a multi-tasked vehicle. This new addition to Dallas Bay VFD will add value to their department by reducing water damage and time spent on the fire ground time with the use of the Compressed Air Foam System. This piece of apparatus will also provide less water damage to the home or building and provide for quicker fire extinguishment. State Representative Jim Cobb, Senator Bo Watson, Commissioner Jim Coppinger, Commissioner Fred Skillern and others will be present for this dedication.
October 22, 2007 - Red Bank House Fire
Quick work by Red Bank Fire Department on saving a house from going up in flames this morning. A 9-1-1 call was received at 9:15 a.m. reporting a house fire at 5023 Old Trail (Red Bank area). Red Bank Fire Department responded and arrived within minutes reporting heavy smoke and fire coming from the back side of the house. Once fire personnel were clear on everyone out of the house, firefighters did an interior attack in the basement and contained the fire from spreading to the upstairs with minutes. The homeowner’s son explained was turning on the heat, which is a propane-fed furnace. He heard a large explosion that shook the house. He proceeded to go downstairs to check the pilot light in the furnace room, opened the door and met with heavy smoke and fire. He immediately evacuated the house and called 9-1-1. No injuries were reported. Hamilton County Emergency Medical Service personnel were on the scene for potential injuries. According to Chief Mark Matthews, Red Bank Fire Department, the fire started in the furnace room but the cause of the fire will be determined by Red Bank Fire Department Fire Investigation Division. Damages estimated about $30,000. Red Bank Fire Department was assisted by Walden’s Ridge Emergency Services, HCEMS and Red Bank Police Department.
October 2, 2007 - 18-wheeler accident At 9:30 a.m., an 18-wheeler traveling down Suck Creek Mountain looses control and overturns the cab and trailer on its top. A motorist called 9-1-1 and reported an adult and a child were trapped under the debris. Chattanooga Fire Department (CFD) responded and arrived on the scene reporting an 18-wheeler carrying 4 inch PVC piping that had overturned on its top on Suck Creek Mountain. Battalion Chief of CFD, Mack Moore, “the firefighters were able to extricate the patients within minutes.” The two year old child sustained critical injuries and was transported by Hamilton County EMS to T.C. Thompson’s Children’s Hospital and the adult male sustained critical injuries and was flown by Lifeforce to Erlanger Medical Center. Chief Moore requested mutual aid to assist Chattanooga Fire Department for additional manpower. Red Bank Fire Department and Walden’s Ridge Emergency Services responded to scene. The cause of the accident is undetermined and will be under investigation by the Tennessee Highway Patrol. Chattanooga Fire Department was assisted by Red Bank Fire Department, Walden’s Ridge Emergency Services, Hamilton County EMS, Hamilton County Sheriff’s Department and Tennessee Highway Patrol.
October 1, 2007 - Fire Prevention Week It's time for Fire Prevention Week, and from October 7-13, 2007, Hamilton County Emergency Services wants to remind Hamilton County residents to 'Practice Your Escape Plan.' During this year's fire safety campaign, volunteer and career firefighters will be spreading the word about the dangers of home fires and teaching local residents how to plan and practice escape from a home in case a fire occurs.
According to the latest NFPA research, 3,030 people died in 2005 in home fires – that’s roughly eight people every day. Being alerted to a fire and knowing what to do to escape from one are extremely important, yet only 23% of households have planned and practiced a home fire escape plan. Many times when we speak to residents who have experienced a fire in their home, they recall becoming confused and disoriented by the conditions and severity of the situation – but they realized they needed to get out fast. Sometimes there are only seconds to escape, but there’s no question that having a plan in place that has been practiced saves precious time and makes survival more likely. We hope that Fire Prevention Week will prompt those in our community to plan and practice their escape. Although it’s difficult to prepare for the unexpected, reviewing the information below and taking action based on it to plan for a fire is strongly recommended… and don’t forget to practice your escape plan during Fire Prevention Week!
Fire Prevention Week is actively supported by volunteer and career fire departments across the country. For 85 years fire departments have observed Fire Prevention Week, making it the longest running public health and safety observance on record. September 26, 2007 - Dallas Bay House Fire Fire caused
significant damage to a house in the Dallas Bay area on Wednesday
evening. At 6 p.m., the home alarm system called 9-1-1 and the homeowner
reporting a fire alarm at 8606 Colleton Drive.
. August 9, 2007 - Emergency Response Boat added to Dallas Bay VFD Dallas Bay Volunteer Fire Department (VFD) adds a new response unit to their fleet. Tennessee Homeland Security purchased a fire/rescue boat to increase our response capabilities for emergency incidents on the river. The boat will be used for hazardous material incidents, boating accidents, fire suppression operations in marinas and homes along the water; and as a mutual aid response to support other agencies, such as, Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, Chattanooga Fire Department and water rescue agencies. The boat can be used for special activities on the water, such as, triathlons, and boat races. Dallas Bay VFD was selected to operate this new fire/rescue boat because so much of their district borders the Chickamauga Lake. Dallas Bay VFD can answer a mutual aid request to respond this boat to other jurisdictions to assist other agencies as needed. For further information or demonstration, call Chief Rosamond at (423) 593-6575.
August 2, 2007 - Highway 58 VFD House Fire A family of five looses everything to fire this morning. At 10:00 am, a neighbor called 9-1-1 reporting a house fire at 4730 Johnson Road (Birchwood area). Highway 58 Volunteer Fire Department responded and arrived on the scene reporting a fully involved house fire with structure collapse. When the firefighters were notified that there was no one in the house, they immediately went to a defensive attack to control the fire. Highway 58 VFD requested a mutual aid response for an additional tanker truck and personnel. Bradley County Fire and Rescue responded to assist them. According to the homeowners, Scottie and Jennifer Robinson had left the house an hour prior to getting a call from a relative that their house was on fire. The Robinsons have 3 children, 5, 7 and 9 years old. No injuries were reported. Hamilton County EMS was on the scene for potential injuries to the firefighters. The house is a total loss and damages estimated at $100,000. The family had insurance. According to Chief Charles Harris, Highway 58 VFD, no investigation will be conducted. The American Red Cross was contacted to assist the family. Highway 58 VFD was assisted by Bradley County Fire and Rescue, Hamilton County EMS and Hamilton County Sheriff’s Department. July 30, 2007 - Red Bank Duplex Fire Quick work by the firefighters of Red Bank Fire Department. This afternoon, a neighbor calls 9-1-1 at 12:43 p.m. reporting a house fire at 3515 Lamar Avenue (Red Bank area). Red Bank Fire Department responded and arrived on the scene reporting heavy smoke and fire showing on the back side of a duplex. Once the firefighters were clear that all victims were out of the duplex, they attacked and extinguished the fire within five minutes. Red Bank requested a mutual aid. Walden’s Ridge Emergency Services was on stand-by at Red Bank Station One. According to the mother, her girls 12 and 8 were home alone watching TV. The twelve year old stated she heard the smoke detectors going off and they ran out of the house to call their mother. Chief Mark Matthews, Red Bank Fire Department, stated the fire started in the utility room. The cause of the fire is undetermined and will be under investigation by the Red Bank Fire Department. No injuries were reported. The mother and her two children did not have renters insurance. They will be staying with a friend. Damages are estimated at $20,000. Red Bank Fire Department was assisted by Walden’s Ridge Emergency Services and Red Bank Police Department. June 22, 2007 - Walden's Ridge Emergency Services House Fire Quick and heroic work by the firefighters of Walden’s Ridge Emergency Services. This morning, a neighbor calls 9-1-1 at 1:00 a.m. reporting a house fire at 4121 Ivory Road (Signal Mountain area). Walden’s Ridge Emergency Services responded and arrived on the scene reporting the garage fully involved with fire. The firefighters were met in the driveway with one of the homeowners stating their friend was trapped on the second floor of the house. The firefighters immediately conducted a search and rescue operation and found the female on the roof on the home. Walden’s Ridge requested mutual aid for additional manpower. Signal Mountain Fire Department responded and Red Bank Fire Department was on stand by as an additional unit if needed. The homeowner, John Riddell, said his wife and friend were supposed to leave this morning for a tennis tournament out of town. The Riddell’s friend sustained second and third degree burns to her hands and smoke inhalation. She was airlifted to Erlanger Medical Center where she is listed in stable condition. The cause of the fire will under investigation by the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Department. No other injuries were reported. Damages are estimated at $250,000. The couple does have insurance. June 5, 2007 - Highway 58 VFD House Fire A family looses their home to fire this morning. A neighbor made a 9-1-1 call at 5:35 a.m. reporting heavy smoke and fire at 7622 Water Crest Drive (Harrison Bay area). Highway 58 Volunteer Fire Department (VFD) responded and arrived on the scene confirming fire coming through the roof of the house. After the firefighters confirmed all occupants were out of the house, they went to a defensive attack to save the adjacent garage with 2 automobiles and a motorcycle. Highway 58 VFD was able to save the adjacent structure and vehicles but was unable to save the home. Highway 58 VFD requested mutual aid for manpower and apparatus. Tri-Community Volunteer Fire Department responded to the scene to assist Highway 58 VFD. Hamilton County EMS was on the scene and treated one of the homeowners for smoke inhalation. He was transported to Memorial Hospital. No other injuries were reported. According to the homeowner, she awoke to a cracking, popping noise. She went downstairs to investigate to find the back porch fully involved with fire. She proceeded to use a fire extinguisher to put out the flames but was unsuccessful. They escaped through the basement. The homeowners were able to save seven Harley Davidson motorcycles. Two other Harley Davidson bikes and a 1990 Corvette were destroyed in the fire. The cause of the fire is undetermined and will be under investigation by the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Department. Estimated damages to be worth $500,000. The family does have insurance. Highway 58 VFD was assisted by Tri-Community VFD, Hamilton County EMS, and Hamilton County Sherriff’s Department. April 25, 2007 - Highway 58 VFD House Fire A home was damaged by fire in the Harrison Bay area. The homeowner made a 9-1-1 call at 1:24 p.m. reporting a kitchen fire at 6137 Blue Ash Drive (Harrison Subdivision). Highway 58 Volunteer Fire Department (VFD) responded and arrived on the scene confirming heavy smoke coming from the front and back side of the house. After the firefighters confirmed all occupants were out of the house, they did an interior attack in the kitchen to save the home. A quick response and swift extinguishment saved this house from significant damage. According to Assistant Chief, Danny Wright, "a full crew of fire personnel were at Station 1 when emergency tones went out and this allowed a quick response to extinguish this fire." Hamilton County EMS responded and on the scene for any potential injuries. No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire was unattended cooking and started in the kitchen. According to the Assistant Chief Wright, the homeowner was cooking in the kitchen and left a pot with oil unattended which caused a fire in the kitchen area and spread quickly throughout the first level of the home. There was damage in the kitchen and several rooms on the first floor sustained smoke damage. Wright reported the house had about $100,000 damage. Highway 58 VFD was assisted by Hamilton County EMS, and Hamilton County Sherriff’s Department. March 12, 2007 - Tri Community VFD House Fire This morning, Red Bank Fire Department responds to a 9-1-1 call reporting a 5 unit apartment complex on fire at 4223 Tacoma Avenue. At 12:50 a.m., a male occupant awoke to smelling smoke throughout his apartment. He discovered fire coming from his bedroom. He immediately evacuated his apartment and alerted the neighbors. Red Bank Fire Department arrived on the scene within minutes reporting fire coming from the north side of the quadraplex. When fire personnel were clear that all residents were accounted for, they immediately conducted an interior attack and quickly gain control of the fire from spreading to the adjacent units. According to the resident, he was asleep on the couch and smelled smoke to find his bedroom was on fire. No injuries were reported. Hamilton County EMS was on the scene for any potential injuries. Red Bank Fire Department requested mutual aid for Soddy Daisy Fire Department and Walden’s Ridge Emergency Services to cover Red Bank Fire Department’s district for any potential 9-1-1 calls. Several apartments were damaged and estimated a total of $75,000. 1 unit was a total loss. 1 unit had water damage and 3 had smoke damage. The cause of the fire will be under investigation by the Red Bank Fire Department. Red Bank Fire Department was assisted by Walden’s Ridge Emergency Services, Soddy Daisy Fire Department, Hamilton County EMS and Red Bank Police Department. March 9, 2007 - Red Bank House Fire This morning, fire destroys a house in Red Bank. At 2:30 a.m., the homeowner called 9-1-1 reporting his house was on fire at 3308 Martin Road. Red Bank Fire Department responded and reported a fully involved house fire. Once firefighters were clear no one was in the house, they went to a "defensive attack" to get the fire under control. Due to the significant amount of fire throughout the house, Red Bank Fire Department requested mutual aid for additional manpower. Soddy Daisy Fire Department and Walden’s Ridge Emergency Services responded to assist Red Bank Fire Department. According to Red Bank Deputy Chief, Jimmy Burnette, the homeowner said his smoke detector woke him up. The 26 year old male was able to escape the burning home with his dog. No injuries were reported. Hamilton County EMS was on the scene for any potential injuries to any firefighters. The cause of the fire is undetermined and will be under investigation by the Red Bank Fire Department. Chief Burnette reported the fire started in the living room area. The house is a total loss and damages valued at $60,000. The homeowner did have insurance. He is currently staying with his mother in South Pittsburg. March 7, 2007 - Red Bank House Fire Red Bank Fire Department saves an apartment from spreading fire throughout an entire apartment unit. At 1:30 p.m., a neighbor called 9-1-1 reporting heavy smoke coming from apartment #48 at Crestview Apartments (107 Goodson Avenue). Red Bank Fire Department responded and arrived on the scene reporting heavy smoke and fire coming from one of the apartment units. Red Bank firefighters immediately conducted a search and rescue operation throughout the adjacent units. Once all residents were accounted for, fire personnel conducted an interior attack to control the fire from spreading to the other units that were attached to the building. Chief Mark Matthews, Red Bank Fire Department, requested a mutual aid response for additional manpower and fire apparatus. Soddy Daisy Fire Department and Walden’s Ridge Emergency Services responded to the scene for mutual aid. According to the resident, Ms. Denise Davis, she had been gone about an hour to run errands. No injuries were reported. Hamilton County EMS was on the scene for potential injuries. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Red Bank Fire Department. Chief Matthews said the amount of damage to the apartment is about $40,000. The American Red Cross was called in to assist Ms. Davis. Red Bank Fire Department was assisted by Soddy Daisy Fire Department, Walden’s Ridge Emergency Services, HCEMS and Red Bank Police Department. February 27, 2007 - Red Bank 2 Alarm Fire This morning, a two-alarm apartment fire rips through 8 units at the Ashland Gardens Apartment complex in Red Bank. At 12:45 a.m. a 9-1-1 call was made reporting heavy smoke and fire at the Ashland Gardens Apartments. Red Bank Fire Department responded and was on the scene within minutes reporting fire coming through the roof on the top floor of a 4-story apartment complex. Red Bank firefighters immediately conducted a search and rescue operation throughout the 8 units that were involved with heavy smoke and fire. Once all residents were accounted for, fire personnel went to a "defensive" attack to control the fire from spreading to the other 8 units that were attached to the building. Due to the significant amount of fire, Chief Mark Matthews, Red Bank Fire Department, requested a mutual aid response for additional manpower and fire apparatus. East Ridge Fire Department, Soddy Daisy Fire Department, Dallas Bay Volunteer Fire Department, Walden’s Ridge Emergency Services, Chattanooga-Hamilton County Rescue, Hamilton County EMS, Highway 58 Volunteer Fire Department, Rossville Fire Department responded to the scene for mutual aid. Over 60 emergency service personnel were on the scene to assist Red Bank Fire Department. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Red Bank Fire Department. Chief Matthews said the amount of damage to the apartment complex is extensive and could not give a damage amount at this time. Eight families were displaced from their apartment and will be taken care of by the American Red Cross. No injuries were reported. February 26, 2007 - Red Bank Duplex Fire Red Bank Fire Department stops a fire from destroying a duplex Monday morning. A 9-1-1 call came in at 12:15 a.m. reporting heavy smoke at 2515 Briggs Avenue. Red Bank Fire Department responded and arrived on the scene within minutes reporting heavy smoke coming from all the eaves of the duplex. Chief Mark Matthews, Red Bank Fire Department, explained, "when we were clear on no possible entrapment, we went to a defensive attack because the 1st and 2nd floors of both units had collapsed due to the significant amount of fire inside the duplex." Red Bank Fire Department used ladder trucks to get the fire under control. Chief Matthews requested a mutual aid response for Soddy Daisy Fire Department and Walden’s Ridge Emergency Services to "stand-by" in Red Bank’s district in the event of another emergency. Hamilton County EMS was on the scene for potential injuries to the firefighters. No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire will be under investigation by the Red Bank Fire Department. Chief Matthews said an electrical malfunction could possibly be to blame for this duplex fire. No one was home at the time. One side of the duplex was occupied by Mr. Benny Woody. The other side was vacant. Mr. Woody did have insurance. The duplex sustained heavy fire and smoke damage estimated at around $80,000. Red Bank Fire Department was assisted by Soddy Daisy Fire Department, Walden’s Ridge Emergency Services, Hamilton County EMS, and Red Bank Police Department. February 2, 2007 - Dallas Bay House Fire A home was damaged by fire in the Dallas Bay area last night. The homeowner made a 9-1-1 call at 6:00 p.m. reporting heavy smoke and fire at 7158 Crestfield Drive. Dallas Bay Volunteer Fire Department (VFD) responded and arrived on the scene confirming fire coming from the back side of the house. After the firefighters confirmed all occupants were out of the house, they went to a defensive attack to save the home. Dallas Bay VFD requested mutual aid for manpower. Soddy Daisy Fire Department responded to the scene to assist Dallas Bay VFD. Hamilton County EMS treated and released a firefighter on the scene for 1st degree burns on one of his hands. According to the homeowner, Shauna Swanson, was cooking in the kitchen and left a pot with oil unattended. One of her children shouted the pot on the stove was on fire. The pot exploded when Mrs. Swanson tried to put the fire out. Fire spread fast throughout the kitchen and living room area. Mrs. Swanson quickly evacuated her home with her 2 dogs and 3 children (ages 3, 6 and 11). Unattended cooking in the kitchen was the cause of this fire. Most of the interior of the home was destroyed. According to Chief Al Rosamond, Dallas Bay VFD Chief, damages are estimated at $125,000. The American Red Cross was called in to assist the family. Dallas Bay VFD was assisted by Soddy Daisy Fire Department, Hamilton County EMS, and Hamilton County Sherriff’s Department.
Sale Creek Fire - 6/20/06
Yesterday afternoon, a home was destroyed by fire in the Sale Creek area. A neighbor made a 9-1-1 call at 2:30 p.m. reporting heavy smoke and fire at 14410 Back Valley Road. Hamilton County Sheriff’s Department was the first unit on the scene confirming a fully involved house fire. Sale Creek Volunteer Fire Department (VFD) arrived shortly there after requesting additional units and manpower to respond to the scene. Soddy Daisy Fire Department responded and arrived on the scene to assist Sale Creek VFD. Due to the significant amount of fire throughout the house, Sale Creek VFD made a defensive attack to control the fire and alleviate the fire from spreading on the dry terrain. According to the Chief Glen Aslinger, Sale Creek VFD, the resident left the scene and drove to a convenient store to call 9-1-1. Chief Aslinger reported the fire started in the living room area. Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, Fire Investigation, will investigate this fire and determine the cause. No injuries were reported. Due to the significant hot temperatures, Hamilton County EMS was on the scene for potential injuries. The home was a total loss and damages are estimated at $84,000. Sale Creek VFD was assisted by Soddy Daisy Fire Department, Hamilton County EMS, Soddy Daisy Police Department and Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office.
Highway 58 Fire - 6/2/06
A home is destroyed by fire in the Highway 58 area. A neighbor made a 9-1-1 call at 2:00 p.m. reporting heavy smoke and fire at 6346 Fairest Drive. Highway 58 Volunteer Fire Department responded and arrived on the scene confirming fire coming through the roof. According to Chief Charles Harris, Highway 58 VFD, the homeowner and children were home at the time. She told Chief Harris that she spotted flames coming from the back porch. Since the house was fully involved, the firefighters went to a “defensive” attack and contained the fire within thirty minutes. Highway 58 VFD requested mutual aid. Tri-Community VFD responded with a pumper truck and additional firefighters for manpower. Hamilton County EMS was on the scene to stand-by for potential injuries. No injuries were reported. Estimated damages are $150,000. The cause of the fire is undetermined and will be under investigation by the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Department. Highway 58 VFD was assisted by Tri-Community VFD, Hamilton County EMS and Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office.
Red Bank Fire - 5/30/06
A home is heavily damaged by fire in the Red Bank area. A neighbor made a 9-1-1 call at 11:00 a.m. reporting heavy smoke and fire at 210 Sweetland Drive. Red Bank Fire Department responded and arrived on the scene confirming fire and heavy smoke coming from the eaves of the home. According to the neighbor, the homeowner left the house to run a few errands and returned to find Red Bank Fire Department putting out flames on his home. Quick work by the Red Bank Fire Department personnel. This fire had great potential in becoming a large house fire due to the wooden siding on the home and the heavy foliage that surrounded the home as well. These firefighters performed a quick interior attack inside the house and extinguished the fire located in the front bedroom. The rest of the home sustained heavy smoke and water damage. No injuries were reported. Hamilton County EMS was on the scene to stand-by for potential injuries. Estimated damages are unavailable. The cause of the fire is undetermined and will be under investigation by the Red Bank Fire Department. Red Bank Fire Department was assisted by Soddy Hamilton County EMS and the Red Bank Police Department.
Commercial Fire - 4/21/06
This morning, a general store is destroyed by fire in the Highway 58 area. The owner made a 9-1-1 call at 7:10 a.m. reporting heavy smoke and fire at 10500 Highway 58. Hamilton County EMS was the first unit on the scene confirming a fully involved commercial fire. Highway 58 Volunteer Fire Department (VFD) arrived shortly there after requesting additional apparatus units to respond to the scene. Due to the “live” power lines that draped Highway 58, it was difficult for the additional fire apparatus to make entry to the scene. Since the fire was fully involved, the firefighter went to a defensive attack and stopped the fire from spreading to other structures.
According to the Chief Charles Harris, Highway 58 VFD, the owner said the building was struck by lightning but Harris cannot confirm that at this time. Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, Fire Investigation, will investigate this fire and determine the cause.
The building was built in 1941 and was the old Bill Gross General Merchandise Store. The business was inoperable and no one was in the building when the fire started. No injuries were reported. The building was a total loss and damages are estimated at $50,000.
Highway 58 VFD was assisted by Hamilton County EMS and Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office.
Sale Creek Fire - 3/1/06
This morning, a home was destroyed by fire on top of Sale Creek Mountain. The homeowner called 9-1-1 at 6:30 a.m. reporting a house fire at 1111 Retro Hughes Road. Sale Creek Volunteer Fire Department (VFD) responded and arrived within minutes reporting a fully involved house fire. Due to the location of the home and lack of a hydrant, Sale Creek VFD requested mutual aid for additional water supply. Soddy Daisy Fire Department responded with a tanker truck and personnel to assist Sale Creek VFD. According to the homeowner, she awoke to make coffee when she smelled smoke and found fire coming from the first level of the home. She immediately awoke her family (2 adults and 1 child) and evacuated the home. The homeowner reported the fire was coming from the “water room”. The water supply is stored in the basement area with a heating lamp which keeps the water from freezing. At this time, the cause of the fire is undetermined and will be under investigation by the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office. No injuries were reported. The house is a total loss and estimated at $297,000. The American Red Cross was brought to the scene to assist the family. The couple did have insurance. Sale Creek VFD was able to contain the fire to the house and eliminate the fire from spreading to the surrounding dry wooded property. This was a difficult fire to extinguish. The terrain had poor conditions for fire trucks to gain access to the house and the closest fire hydrant was 4 miles away (North Hamilton County Elementary School).
Woods Fire - 2/28/06
Yesterday,
sixty volunteer firefighters spend most of the afternoon battling a
large woods fire along the side of Walden’s Ridge. The initial 9-1-1
call came in as a vehicle on fire in the woods off of
Chief
Al Rosamond, Dallas Bay VFD, reported at 1:00 p.m. at least 30 acres
along the side of Walden’s Ridge was fully involved with fire. The
Tennessee Forestry Division brought bulldozers to create fire breaks to
stop the fire from spreading up the side of the mountain. By 4:00 p.m.
the fire was under controlled. Assistant Chief, Randall Hawkins,
Walden’s Ridge Emergency Services, reported at least 50-75 acres was
burned and were able to control the fire from spreading to any homes
near by.
This morning, a fire breaks out at a resident’s home, located at 8100 Thornewoord Drive (off of Thrasher Road). At 2:30 a.m., the resident made the 91-1 call reporting a fire at his home.
Dallas Bay Volunteer Fire Department (VFD) responded and arrived on the scene within minutes reporting heavy smoke and fire at the rear of the home. The firefighters did an immediate interior attack and searched the home for victims. The fire spread quickly throughout the attic and the entire roof line. At that time, the firefighters immediately evacuated the home and went to a defensive attack. Due to the extent amount of fire, Dallas Bay VFD requested mutual aid for manpower. Soddy Daisy Fire Department, Red Bank Fire Department responded to the scene along with Hamilton County E.M.S. for potential injuries.
According to the resident, they were asleep and were awaken to the sound of the smoke alarms. The three adult residents were able to escape the house but were unable to save their dog, a cat and a bird. The couple does have insurance.
No injuries were reported. Damages are estimated at $200,000. The cause of the fire is undetermined and will be under investigation by the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office.
Dallas Bay VFD was assisted by Soddy Daisy Fire Department, Red Bank Fire Department, HCEMS and Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office.
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