Fire & Rescue Fire & Rescue Fire & Rescue Fire & Rescue
“Our Family Protecting Yours”
T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S
C I T Y L E A D E R S H I P
The City’s government is organized under the Council-Manager form of government The governing body, the City Council, is composed of seven members and a Mayor who develop policies for the administration of the City The Mayor is elected at large and the Council members are elected by borough in a city-wide election every other year with terms of office being four years The City Council appoints a City Manager to act as administrative head of the City The City Manager serves at the pleasure of City Council and carries out the City Council’s policies and directs business procedures The City Manager also appoints and removes the directors of all departments
As Virginia's largest City in land area, Suffolk is 430 square miles of rich land with woods, lakes, rivers, and rolling terrain-not to mention wise development and the use of it-that make this area bountiful for residents and businesses alike. Our schools, parks, neighborhoods, healthcare facilities, and utilities help create a successful community. Some of the region's most prosperous companies already call Suffolk home.
And the great growth potential is attracting many new businesses and employees. This is a place full of pride and promise. A place where progressive isn't just a description, it’s an attitude. It’s a place with vision.
Kevin Hughes Interim City Manager City of Suffolk
2025 Suffolk City Council
Preserve Effective Transportation Choices
Vary the Landscape and Development Patterns
Provide Housing Options
Protect What is Irreplaceable
Take Care of What the City Has (Investment and Infrastructure)
Keep Jobs and Schools Near Population Centers
Protect and Enhance Agricultural Character and Uses, and Open
Michael Duman Mayor Lue Ward Vice Mayor Nansemond Borough
Leroy Bennett Cypress Borough
Ebony Wright Sleepy Hole Borough
Timothy Johnson Holy Neck Borough
John Rector Suffolk Borough
Shelley Butler Barlow Chuckatuck Borough
It is my honor to present this annual report on behalf of the men and women of the Suffolk Department of Fire & Rescue As the City of Suffolk continues to grow and prosper, so does Fire & Rescue The department had a 12 03% increase in calls for service, with 22,400 incidents in 2025 In addition, unit responses went from 49,213 in 2024 to 54,533 in 2025 This was a 10 81% increase in one year The demand for fire & rescue services in the City of Suffolk is predictably increasing year by year Since 2015, the calls for service have increased from 12,063 to 22,400 The number of unit responses have increased from 26,952 to 54,533 These trends are important to understand as we continue to prepare for the future of fire & rescue services over the next three to five years In 2025, 337 firefighters, paramedics, officers, and administrative professionals provided excellent services to our citizens with compassion, care, and skill
We have so much to celebrate this year, and so much to look forward to in 2026. Here is a look back at our accomplishments in 2025. We continue to set the bar with respect to our fire and EMS operations, special operations, fire investigations, prevention, education, inspections, plans review, logistics, fire recruit and incumbent training, administration, health, safety and wellness, IT, and finance and budget! Unfortunately, we began 2025 with the loss of Fire Chief Mark Outlaw. Chief Outlaw will continue to be in our thoughts and memories for years to come. We accomplished our continued commitment to incumbent training through our annual Mayday/firefighter survivability and “JanuAirway” training to start the year. New Rescue 1 went into service, and we took delivery on Tanker 7 and new Ladder 5. The burn building and training tower groundbreaking occurred, and we made substantial progress on the building and training center site in 2025 Fire Station 11 is now open with a grand opening in July and a ribbon-cutting ceremony on 9-11 We accomplished many “wins” in Richmond with the Governor signing a “Cancer Bill” that includes additional cancers and conditions that are now considered to be “presumptive,” to include thyroid cancer Fire Boat 1 and our MIRT were extremely active in 2025, including many missions and a leadership presence with the Port of Virginia for the annual SAR Forum, Harbor Fest, and Shipboard Firefighting School New CAD continues to be provisioned, and we have an expected go-live date for new CAD in summer 2026
The FY 2026 budget (effective July 1, 2025) included a 3% COLA, 9 new firefighter positions for Fire Station 4 to staff new Medic 4 and upstaff Engine 4 to par 4, and a Captain position for Staffing Officer. 2025 saw a Fire Investigator being funded and assigned to the Commonwealth’s Attorney Office for Environmental Crimes, a FEMA VA-TF 2 deployment to Tennessee, ventilators going into service on all Medics and the EMS supervisor vehicles, and automatic aid started with the City of Portsmouth. In 2025, we had many promotions to Battalion Chief, Captain, and Lieutenant because we had over 300 years of service retire in 2025. Special operations HazMat continues to grow and develop, especially with the opening of Fire Station 11. Many firefighters and officers completed HazMat tech class and chemistry and will continue to the position of HazMat Specialist in 2026. The station stop light at Fire Station 10 went into service, and we continued with CAD-2-CAD with the region, prepared for the migration to NERIS, completed and delivered to City leadership a historical review and report regarding the staffing of Suffolk Fire & Rescue, and made the cover of Fire Engineering Magazine, all in 2025 M E S S A G E F R O M T H E
Michael J. Barakey Fire Chief City of Suffolk
The Marcus Alert/MARC 1 program continued to exceed expectations, we continued to progress with developing the plans to replace Fire Station 4, and we had an exceptional Awards and Recognition Ceremony in 2025 Finally, we celebrated the graduation of HRFA Class 70 and 71 with 32 newly trained firefighters on August 14, 2025
Thank you for your continued trust and support of the Suffolk Department of Fire & Rescue In the words of Chief Mark Outlaw, “Our Family Protecting Yours” will continue for years to come, and your firefighters, officers, and administrative professionals will continue to serve i h id d r!
The Mission of The City of Suffolk Department of Fire & Rescue is to preserve life and property through emergency prevention, preparation, response, and mitigation
Our Vision
As an ever evolving emergency services leader in the Hampton Roads region, The City of Suffolk Department of Fire & Rescue will provide proactive and dynamic services that are valued by the citizens and visitors of Suffolk
Our Values
Suffolk Fire & Rescue received their first CFAI Accreditation in 2023. SFR is one of 334 Fire Departments to achieve International Accredited Agency Status. Other Hampton Roads Fire Departments that are accredited are Hampton, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic, Newport News, and Virginia Beach. M I S S I O N , V I S I O N , V A L U E S C F A I A C C R E D I T A T I O N
On Friday, July 18, 2025, Suffolk Fire & Rescue proudly held its Grand Opening and Uncoupling Ceremony, unveiling its new fire station The new fire station is the city’s 11 station and is a state-of-the-art facility that will enhance emergency response and public safety in the growing North Suffolk community.
Suffolk Mayor Michael Duman, Fire Chief Michael Barakey, and other dignitaries took part in a time-honored tradition with a Fire Hose Uncoupling Ceremony. The hose uncoupling ceremony is a symbolic tradition marking the grand opening of a new or renovated fire station, replacing the traditional ribbon-cutting. It symbolizes the station's readiness to serve the community and the fire department's commitment to protecting lives and property.
Fire Station 11 officially opened for business on September 11, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. to honor the 24 anniversary of 9/11. This state-of-the-art station houses Engine 11, Ladder 11, Medic 11, and Rescue 2. It is staffed 24/7 with 15 firefighters and paramedics.
th Kevin Hughes Interim City Manager City of Suffolk
2 0 2 5
15,606 EMS Incidents EMS Incidents
1,947 Service Calls Service Calls
1,529 Fire Alarms Fire Alarms
1,369 Motor Vehicle Motor Vehicle Crashes Crashes
367 Working Fires Working Fires
55 EExtrications xtrications
22,400 Total Incidents
54,533 Total Unit Responses 6:14 Average Response Time
2025 Incidents by Station
2025 Total Incidents Breakdown
2025 Incidents by Unit (Top 60)
Incidents by Month
Incidents by Category
0 2,000 4,000 6,000 8,000 10,000
0 2,000 4,000 6,000 8,000
5,000 10,000 15,000 20,000 25,000
Staff vs Calls for Service from 1982 - 2025
Staff Calls for Service
2025 SUFFOLK F IRE & RESCUE
Executive Assistant
EMS/Community Paramedic Coordinator Battalion Chief Pharmacist Community Paramedic Coordinator
The City of Suffolk Department of Fire & Rescue provides fire suppression, technical rescue, search and rescue (SAR), emergency communications, marine operations, tactical medics, advanced life support emergency medical services, and fire prevention programs to over 100,000 residents The department serves 430 square miles of urban, suburban, rural, village and waterfront area in the southeast portion of the Commonwealth of Virginia The operations division proudly stands prepared for service 24/7/365
In 2025, department personnel responded to over 22,000 calls for service and staffed ten fire stations These strategically located fire stations deploy a total of:
Keith Johnson Assistant Chief A-Shift Commander
Demitri Wilson Assistant Chief B-Shift Commander
David P. Harrell Deputy
Chief Operations
Nick Savage Assistant Chief C-Shift Commander
The Special Operations Command (SOC) serves as the oversight for the department's highly specialized response teams, including the Marine Response Team, Tactical Medic Team, Hazardous Materials Team, Technical Rescue Team, Communications Team, and Search and Rescue Team. Together, these teams provide critical capabilities that significantly expand the department’s operational readiness and preparedness.
SOC personnel are highly trained firefighters who, in addition to responding to routine calls for emergency services, maintain advanced certifications and specialized skills to manage complex incidents These include hazardous materials incidents, technical and high-angle rescues, confined space operations, water and marine emergencies, missing or endangered persons searches, and incidents requiring enhanced medical and communications support Throughout the year, SOC teams dedicated substantial time to training, certification maintenance, equipment evaluation, and interagency coordination to ensure operational readiness Members routinely train alongside local, regional, and state partners to maintain interoperability and ensure seamless response during large-scale or multi-jurisdictional incidents This collaborative approach strengthens regional response capabilities and enhances overall community risk reduction
The Special Operations Command plays a vital role in safeguarding both the public and first responders by providing specialized resources, technical expertise, and leadership during the most challenging emergency situations. Through continued investment in personnel, training, and equipment, SOC remains prepared to respond effectively to evolving threats and emerging hazards, ensuring Suffolk Fire & Rescue can meet the diverse and complex needs of the community. S P E C I A L
C O M M U N I C A T I O N S T E A M
The Communications Team plays a vital role in ensuring reliable and interoperable communications during both emergency responses and planned large-scale events. Our team is staffed with qualified Communications Unit Leaders (COMLs), Communications Technicians (COMTs), and Certified Drone Pilots, each bringing specialized skills essential to maintaining and restoring communication links when they are most needed. Our mobile communications bus serves as a key asset, equipped with RIOS and COMLINC systems to establish statewide radio interoperability. These technologies enable public safety agencies utilizing different radio systems to communicate seamlessly, supporting coordination and efficiency across jurisdictions
Throughout 2025, the Communications Team continued to enhance its operational readiness through quarterly joint training with the Virginia Communications Cache These sessions strengthen our technical skills and relationships with partner agencies, ensuring smooth collaboration for future deployments Our team also remains committed to continuous learning and engagement within the public safety communications community, exemplified by our participation in the 2025 APCO Conference in Roanoke, Virginia
This year, our communications bus supported several key operations and training events The Communications Team played an integral role in the department’s annual Mayday training, providing critical communications capabilities with dispatchers aboard. The bus also participated in the Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM) drill in Surry, Virginia, demonstrating our readiness to respond to real-world incidents. Additionally, they provided communications support for public events such as the 2025 Oceana Air Show, showcasing our ability to assist with both emergency and non-emergency operations.
Through these efforts, our Communications Team continues to exemplify professionalism, preparedness, and technical excellence. Whether responding t di t bl di t supporting planned community events, they remain dedica that protect lives, enhance coord ergen k
In March, the SFR Communications Team participated in a two day training in Hampton with the Virginia Cache The scenario for day 1 was that Hampton lost their repeater capabilities and the team had to re-establish them. The team established VHF, UHF and a 700 channel Three separate channels were set up using Daniels repeaters and a 700 tactical repeater supplied by Hampton hooked to the SFR teams mast
Steve Johnson Battalion Chief Communications Team Program Coordinator
The Hampton Roads Incident Management Team (HRIMT) provides advanced incident management and coordination support during complex, large-scale, and high-risk events The team enhances operational effectiveness by supporting incident command, logistics, planning,andinteragency coordinationacrosslocal,state,andnational incidents
HRIMT personnel are deployable under state activation and Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC) requests, allowing Suffolk Fire & Rescue to contribute experiencedincidentmanagementcapability beyondthelocal jurisdiction.
The mission of Suffolk’s involvement with HRIMT is to support safe, effective emergency operations through structured incident management, coordination, and logistical support, whilereinforcing respondersafety andinteroperability during complex incidents.
2025 Operational Activity
During 2025, HRIMT members supported multiple simultaneous large-scale incidents at the state and national levels, demonstrating the team’s ability to operate in sustained, highdemandenvironments
KEYOPERATIONALDEPLOYMENTSINCLUDED
Central VirginiaWinterStorm (February 2025):
HRIMT members supported Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM) operationsduring adebilitating snowstorm impacting Central Virginia.
RichmondWaterSystem Failure:
Concurrent with winter storm operations, HRIMT supported incident management efforts following a major failure of the Richmond water system, including assistance with establishing a water distribution system for affected communities. This operation was laterreferencedasacaseexampleduring formal incidentmanagementtraining.
SouthwestVirginiaFlooding:
HRIMT assisted response efforts during a significant flooding event in Southwest Virginia, occurring shortly afterHurricaneHeleneoperations
Ruidoso,NewMexicoFloodin
Western Alaska Yukon–Kusko
HRIMT members deploye in Ruidoso, New Mexico in2024,compounding op H A M P T O N R O A D S I N C I D E N T M A N A G E M E N T T E A M
During the 2025 hurrican supported response ope devastation in Western Teams and Urban Sear across the country were communities.
Raphael Brown Battalion Chief Hampton Roads Incident Manageme
Training&Preparedness
Training and professional development remain critical to maintaining HRIMT readiness. Throughout 2025,membersparticipatedinbothoperationalsupportrolesandadvancedtrainingopportunities Trainingandsupportactivitiesincluded:
These efforts strengthened command-level capability, logistics coordination, and interagency interoperability.
ProgramImpact
HRIMT provides localities, local and abroad, scalable incident management capability during highconsequence events Through deployments, planning support, and advanced training, the team contributesto:
Future priorities include continued participation in state and national incident management operations, expanded position-specific training, and ongoing integration with partner agencies to supportincreasinglycomplexemergencyenvironments
M In 2025, Suffolk Fire & Rescue made significant progress in the continued development of the City’s first organized Hazardous Materials Response Team. The team expanded through the completion of specialized training in Yorktown and Virginia Beach. Suffolk Fire & Rescue now has 18 certified hazardous materials team members, including six personnel who have completed Chemistry and Advanced Tactical Control training, certifying them as Hazardous Materials Specialists.
H A Z A R D O U S M A T E R I A L S T E A
Additional department members are scheduled to attend training this year, with the goal of increasing the number of certified technicians and specialists Suffolk Fire & Rescue continues to work closely with the Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM) in preparation for becoming a state-contracted hazardous materials response team This collaboration has been instrumental in supporting the team’s continued growth and advancement in hazardous materials response Suffolk Fire & Rescue also hosted the VDEM Fall Chemistry of Hazardous Materials course
Throughout the year, the Hazardous Materials Team dedicated countless hours to research and development to identify and acquire equipment that enhances response capabilities A major investment included the purchase of state-of-the-art Industrial Scientific monitoring and detection equipment These instruments are critical to ensuring the safety of both firefighters and the citizens we serve.
In 2025, Suffolk Fire & Rescue responded to a total of 1355 Hazardous materials related incidents. Incidents range from carbon monoxide alarm activations, spills, and leaks to natural gas odors/investigations.
Suffolk Fire & Rescue’s Maritime Incident Response Team (MIRT) is essential to Suffolk and all of Hampton Roads’ waterways, including the Chesapeake Bay and north up the James River towards Richmond. The Maritime Incident Response Team primarily provides crucial waterbased search and rescue services, including fire suppression and water incident prevention. This involves proactive measures to reduce the likelihood of water-related incidents, hazardous material spills, and fire incidents on boats and near shorelines. This is conducted through education, active monitoring, and safety enforcement. MIRT works closely with the United States Coast Guard (USCG) and marine teams throughout the region, in addition to being an integral part of the Port of Virginia’s Maritime Incident Response Team
The City of Suffolk boasts various waterways, including the Nansemond and James Rivers, as well as numerous creeks and tributaries MIRT is responsible for responding to incidents in these waterways, which serve various purposes, including recreational boating, fishing, and commercial shipping In addition to their core emergency response functions, Suffolk Fire & Rescue’s Maritime Incident Response Team actively engages in community outreach and educational initiatives The team is consistently involved in various events, including the Harbor Festival, the Annual Search and Rescue Symposium, the Shipboard Firefighting School, and the City’s cherished annual July 4th celebrations, where they disseminate crucial information on boating safety and fire prevention
This year, the Port of Virginia awarded Suffolk Fire & Rescue's Maritime Incident Response Team a grant for a vital piece of equipment known as a Tow-fish, which assists in underwater recovery and rescue operations in Hampton Roads' waterways. This sophisticated piece of equipment, an underwater side-scan sonar, requires a minimum of 655 hours of extensive training over a three-year period before MIRT members can be fully accredited in using the Tow-fish.
The dedication of MIRT to engage and educate the community on boating safety and fire prevention remains unwavering. MIRT continues to actively participate in community events and facilitate workshops and in-house classes on these crucial topics MIRT is fully committed to preserving clean waterways and reducing environmental hazards MIRT takes pride in actively working towards safeguarding our water resources, ensuring they remain pristine for generations to come M A R I T I M E I N C I D E N T R E S P O N S E T E A M
The Maritime Incident Response Team’s dedication and unwavering commitment to service are evident in our swift and effective responses to water-related emergencies. As the City continues to expand and evolve, the Maritime Incident Response Team and Fire Boat 1 will remain integral components of its emergency response system, dedicated to preserving clean waterways and reducing all hazards
Looking ahead, the team remains steadfast in its commitment to improving response times and bolstering preparedness for diverse emergencies, which entails a continuous focus on training and education, ensuring that team members are wellversed in the latest safety and rescue techniques Regular drills and exercises are a fundamental part of the regimen for enhancing the skills of the Maritime Incident Response Team
In summary, the Maritime Incident Response Team has achieved a successful year in providing essential emergency response services to the City’s waterways. MIRT’s commitment to safety, preparedness, environmental stewardship, and community outreach, remains instrumental in our continued success. MIRT takes great pride in ensuring the safety and well-being of the City of Suffolk’s residents and visitors
The Search & Rescue (SAR) Program, comprised of both Suffolk Fire & Police members, provides specialized response capabilities for missing people, technical searches, and complex rescue incidents requiring advanced coordination. The program supports local operations while remaining integrated into the broader Virginia Search & Rescue response framework, allowing Suffolk to assist with regional and multi-jurisdictional incidents when requested.
ThemissionoftheSARProgramistosafelylocateandassistmissingorendangeredpeople through coordinated, professional operations, while maintaining a strong emphasis on respondersafety,training,andregionalcollaboration.
One mission assisting Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) in the search for a missingsailor;and
AcrossVirginia,Search&Rescueteamsrespondedto76full-scalemissionsin2025 While SuffolkSARwasnotactivatedforeveryincident,theteamremainsanintegralpartofthe statewideresponsemechanism.SuffolkSARTeamisrecognizedasanimportantresource totheHamptonRoadsarea,andisavailabletosupportregionaloperationswhenneeded. S E A R C H & R E S C U E T E A M
Raphael Brown Battalion Chief Search & Rescue Team Program Coordinat
Future priorities include continued advanced training, sustained participation in regional and tion of equipment and resource needs to support
Suffolk Fire & Rescue’s (SFR) Tactical Paramedics play a vital role in providing rapid, specialized emergency medical support to safeguard the safety, physical and mental health, and overall well-being of law enforcement Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) teams, special operations personnel, and other individuals engaged in high-risk deployments and training exercises. These professionals deliver medical care in environments where traditional Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and fire personnel may be unable to operate safely.
Tactical medics are highly trained to provide advanced emergency medical care under austere and high-threat conditions Their expertise includes preventive medicine, team tactics, weapons safety, security operations, patient extraction, defensive tactics, and other mission-critical skills Their primary mission is the preservation of law enforcement personnel, while their secondary mission involves providing medical assistance to others on scene and facilitating rapid extraction and transport, thereby supporting and enhancing the broader EMS system
The Tactical Medic Team at Suffolk Fire & Rescue consists of nine specially trained paramedics, each qualified to support tactical operations involving the Suffolk Police Department SWAT Team and the Virginia State Police, Division V Tactical Team T A C T I C A L M E D I C T E A M
The Suffolk Fire & Rescue Technical Rescue Team (TRT), based out of Fire Station 1, provides highly specialized rescue capabilities for complex and high-risk incidents within the City of Suffolk and the surrounding region. The team is trained and equipped to respond to a broad spectrum of technical rescue emergencies, including high-angle and low-angle rope rescues, confined space incidents, structural and trench collapses, construction and industrial accidents, advanced vehicle extrications, and swift water rescues.
Staffed by specially trained personnel and supported by dedicated technical rescue apparatus and equipment, the TRT maintains a constant state of readiness through rigorous training and ongoing skills development This commitment ensures the team can operate safely and effectively in challenging environments where specialized knowledge and equipment are critical to successful outcomes
In addition to serving the City of Suffolk, the Technical Rescue Team is a member of the Tidewater Regional Technical Rescue Team (TRTRT) This regional partnership unites elite rescue personnel from fire departments across Southeastern Virginia, including Suffolk, Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth, and Virginia Beach Through this collaboration, the team enhances regional preparedness, interoperability, and response capability for large-scale or complex technical rescue incidents
Through continuous training, regional cooperation, and a commitment to operational excellence, Suffolk Fire & Rescue’s Technical Rescue Team remains a vital asset, providing advanced rescue services, supporting regional partners, and ensuring the highest level of operational response preparedness.
Suffolk Fire & Rescue (SFR) is a participating agency in FEMA’s Virginia Task Force 2 (VA-TF2), an elite Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) team. VA-TF2 is comprised of highly trained firefighters, technical rescue specialists, emergency medical personnel, canine handlers, physicians, and engineers representing multiple jurisdictions and agencies across the region, including Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Chesapeake, James City County, Newport News, Norfolk, Hampton, Williamsburg, Henrico, Portsmouth, York County, and Navy Regional.
As one of only 28 FEMA-designated USAR teams nationwide, VA-TF2 deploys to national emergencies and disasters to conduct critical search and rescue operations The team has responded to some of the most significant incidents, including the Oklahoma City bombing, the Pentagon attack on September 11, the Haiti earthquake, and the Surfside, Florida, building collapse VA-TF2 has also responded to numerous hurricanes including Opal, Fran, Georges, Frances, Ivan, Katrina, Rita, Ernesto, Gustav, Ike, Maria, Florence, Ian, Idalia, and Helene as well as provided operational support for high-profile events such as the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games and the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympics
In 2025, two additional Suffolk Fire & Rescue members were selected to the task force, within the Rescue and Communications components SFR now has 11 members assigned to VA-TF2 across multiple components
E M E R G E N C Y M E D I C A L S E R V I C E S
Suffolk Fire & Rescue (SFR) remains steadfast in delivering exceptional pre-hospital emergency care and transportation to the City of Suffolk. Our dedicated personnel undergo rigorous training in various hazard mitigation techniques, including fire protection, technical rescue, and advanced emergency medical services. Our commitment extends throughout the city, with 9 Advanced Life Support ambulances staffed around the clock every day of the week These ambulances, equipped with a Ford F-550/Horton configuration, serve as our front-line units, each manned by a Paramedic and an Advanced Emergency Medical Technician
SFR takes immense pride in our state-of-the-art equipment, which includes Lifepak 15 cardiac monitor/defibrillators, Lucas 3 mechanical CPR devices, and the introduction of the second generation Glidescope GO-2 video laryngoscopes SFR has also begun to procure the newest cardiac monitor/defibrillators from Stryker – the Lifepak 35 Suffolk Fire & Rescue anticipates placing these new monitors in service early 2026 Additionally, our Stryker Power-Load cot fasteners and Stryker Power-Pro cots enhance patient safety during transport while minimizing crew-related injuries. We also placed Zoll Z-Vent transport ventilators on all front-line ambulances and street supervisor vehicles. SFR also saw pre-hospital ultrasound training and equipment in partnership with our regional EMS council, placing two ultrasound probes in service on the two street supervisor vehicles.
In the year 2025, Suffolk Fire & Rescue responded to a total of 22,048 incidents Of these, 15,501 (70 3%) were related to Emergency Medical Services (EMS) transported 11,734 patients to local ho under the guidelines set forth by the V Health’s Office of EMS, adhering to the Medical Services Council regional EMS providers work under the esteemed lice Medical Director, Dr Carl Wentzel
EMSBureauSponsoredTrain
TheEMSBureausponsoredattendancet training:
EMSWorld(Indianapolis,IN);
OperativeIQConference(Atlanta,GA);
TidewaterEMSEducationalExpo(Norf
Pre-HospitalUltrasoundEducation(Chesapeak
Jeffrey
Matthews Battalion Chief Emergency Medical Services
In July 2024, Suffolk Fire & Rescue partnered with the Western Tidewater Community Services Board (WTCSB) to establish a Marcus Alert Co-Response team along with a Mobile Integrated Health and Community Paramedicine (MIH/CP) Program. The program is called Medical Access and Resources for the Community, or MARC-1. MARC-1 provides a service to the community that differs from traditional Fire and EMS responses. It is one of the few Fire based Co-Response teams in the Commonwealth.
In the first full year of service for MARC-1 the team has made a significant impact for the citizens of Suffolk MARC-1 consists of two unique and effective programs: The Co-Response Team and The MIH/CP Program
The Co-Response Team
MARC-1 is able to respond to mental health calls in the City of Suffolk and deliver a Qualified Mental Health Provider (QMHP) directly to the person in crisis. Using their training, the QMHP is able to offer the person a multitude of services and start that person on a path to recovery. MARC-1 also sets itself apart from other programs as it has the ability to transport people in crisis to the WTCSB Crisis Receiving Center on Godwin Blvd MARC-1 is able to meet the person in crisis where they are and deliver the care they need at the time it is needed
The MIH/CP Program
MARC-1 has improved the quality of life for many of our Citizens of Suffolk. With the increase of calls for Operations to respond to calls for service that don't meet the traditional outline of a Fire or EMS response, crews are now able to refer citizens into the MIH/CP program for MARC-1 to offer assistance in various ways Utilizing connections with community partners, MARC-1 is able to find resources for our citizens who require help or connect them to needed services When a person is referred into the program, MARC-1 is able to conduct home safety assessments for individuals with mobility issues or who are at risk of falling, or also assist those identified as high utilizers of 911 MARC-1 has connections with Hospice Agencies, Companion Care Agencies, Home Health Agencies, Nursing Homes, and Durable Medical Equipment suppliers to meet various needs of our citizens C O M M U N I T Y P A R A M E
Raymond Willet Captain Community Paramedic Coordinator
To manage the daily operations, MARC-1 is staffed with one Firefighter/Paramedic and one QMHP from 11:00 a m to 7:00 p m , Monday-Friday with oversight provided by a Fire Captain assigned to the EMS Bureau.
To refer citizens into the MIH/CP program, please use the following QR code:
identified a resident in need and, through collaboration with community partners, enhanced their quality of life We extend our gratitude to the Chesapeake Fire Department's MIH program for their assistance in providing a donated medical bed to one of our residents
Suffolk Fire & Rescue’s Awards and Recognition Ceremony honored members of the Department in addition to officially promoting eight Lieutenants, four Captains and three Battalion Chiefs, during the event on November 13, 2025 at Suffolk Hilton Garden Inn.
ALS Provider of the Year Officer of the Year
Firefighter of the Year
2 0 2 5
Business Appreciation Award
Lockheed Martin Corporation
Civilian Certificate of Appreciation
Joey Kirk - Fire & Life Safety Camp Counselor
Pierson Chapin - City of Suffolk Resident
Terry Tagg - Obici House
Amy Schultz - Riverside Hospital
Nik Lawson - Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters
Certificate of Commendation
MFF William West Medal of Merit
Lt. Manny Franco
Meritorious Conduct A
Brande Armstrong - SFR Offic
Letter of Commendation/Unit Citation
Members of the Fire Training Staff
BC Kyle Hehl, Capt. David Creekmore,
BC Steve Henkle
MFF Paul “PJ” Matteson
Fire Chief's
Certificate of Commendation/Unit Citation
Members of the Hampton Roads Incident Management Team
BC Raphael Brown and Capt James Sessoms
Members of Suffolk Fireboat 1
MFF Les Lemasters, FF James Seed, FF Byron House and Capt Ryan Bugg
Members of Engine 4, Medic 6 and EMS 1
FF Raquel Wheby, SFF Josh Baker, MFF Robert Moore, Lt. Russell Deaton and FF Robert Barret
Members of the FEMA VATF2 Urban Search and Rescue Team
MFF Todd Helmick, Lt. Louis Jiannine, FF Bobby Matthews, Lt. Dan Moore, Capt. Ray Willet and MFF Adam Short
Members of the Suffolk Fire Communications Team
AC William Kessinger, BC Stevie Johnson, Capt. Braxton Sweat, Capt. Robert Hodges, MFF David Dickens, Fire Medic Robert Collins, Lt. Louis Sleeper, Lt. Ryan Harris, FM Travis Lancaster, FM Ed Kaczkowsky, BC Keith Johnson, SFF Josh Baker, Lt. Richard Kessinger, MFF Mike Bagley and MFF Chris Jordan, Suffolk Police Officers - Sgt Paul Helvestine and Officer David Kellar, Dispatch SupervisorsTracy Pierce and Brande Curl
Crews of Engine 6, Medic 6, Ladder 6 and EMS 1
Lt Russ Deaton, PM Nick Douglas, FF Patrick Madariaga, Lt Ryan Foster, SFF Josh Baker, Lt Louis Sleeper, SFF Marquell Quick, FF Brianna Biddy and SFF Seth Baker
Crews of Engine 1, Ladder 6, Safety 1, Car 10, EMS 1 and Medic 1
Lt Matt Nixon, FF Bryce Thomasson, FF Parker Doleman, Capt Ben Brower, SFF Josh Baker, FF Trent Bell, FF Zack Simpson, Lt Craig Abraham, AC Keith Johnson, Lt Chris Cook, Capt Robert Hodges, FF Josh Goodwyn and FF Asher Conrod
Residential Fire with Finished Attic and Multiple Knee Walls Challenges Firefighters by Michael J. Barakey 2 0 2 5
Six Steps to Becoming a Critical Decision Maker by Michael J. Barakey
NOVEMBER 2025
City of Suffolk Department of Fire & Rescue’s fire on July 5, 2025 was chosen as the cover of the 148 Birthday of Fire Engineering MFF Dwight Leidy captured this photograph as Engine 9 stretched th
NOVEMBER 2025
S Suffolk Fire & Rescue saw many changes during 2025 to include the promotional process for the ranks of Battalion Chief, Captain, and Lieutenant and several retirement celebrations.
Promotions
Congratulations to the following individ who advanced their career in 2025 P R O M O T I O N S & R E T I R E M E N T
2 0 2 5
Battalion Chief Blake Jennings
Battalion Chief Jeffrey Matthews
Battalion Chief Travis Saunders
Captain David Creekmore
Captain Wayland Drake
Captain Michael Joseph
Captain Burgess Wills
Lieutenant Scot Allen
Lieutenant James Bailie
Lieutenant Jason Belaire
Lieutenant Cole Hylton
Lieutenant Louis Jiannine
Lieutenant Fred Littlejohn
Lieutenant Dan Moore
Lieutenant Joshua West
Retirements
Congratulations to the following individuals on their well deserved retirement and thank you for your dedication, selflessness, courage, and service to the community.
Lieutenant Charles Blanchard
Lieutenant Marc Triplett
Lieutenant Fred Walden
Master Firefighter Kevin Bland
Master Firefighter Michael Fernandez
Master Firefighter Medic Rita Griffey
Senior Firefighter Thomas Baines
Senior Firefighter Shawn Moore
Senior Firefighter Robert Young, Jr.
Planning Technician Anna Jones
DU A R
H O N O R G
Suffolk Fire & Rescue’s Honor Guard is a highly trained ceremonial unit that represents the pride, tradition, and professionalism of our department. Members are selected for discipline and bearing, then trained in drill and ceremony, marching formations, flag etiquette, and formal protocols. Their meticulous appearance and synchronized movements reflect the department’s standards and serve as a visible reminder of the fire service’s heritage, unity, and commitment to duty.
Within the department, the honor guard plays a vital role in preserving fire service heritage and mentoring newer members Senior honor guard firefighters pass down ceremonial knowledge, customs, and historical significance to recruits, ensuring traditions endure across generations Participation instills discipline, attention to detail, and deep respect for the profession’s history Service in the honor guard is looked upon as one of the highest ceremonial honors a firefighter can receive Through funerals, memorials, public ceremonies, and educational outreach, the honor guard stands as a living tribute to courage, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of the fire service
Beyond memorial duties, the honor guard also serves at civic and departmental events, presenting colors at parades, graduations, promotions, award ceremonies, and public safety commemorations, strengthening the bond between the department and the community They often participate in regional and national ceremonies alongside other departments, reinforcing the shared brotherhood and sisterhood of the fire service.
S The Administrative Services Team consists of an Executive Assistant to the Fire Chief, two Office Assistants, and an Accounting Associate. This group provides daily administrative and technical support to the department in addition to assistance during times of emergency.
A D M I N I S T R A T I V E S E R V I C E
These are just a few of the duties performed by our Administrative Services Team.
Administration
Operating Budget
Customer Service
Grant Management
Accounts Payable/Receivable
EMS Billing
Procurement
Department Records Management
Capital Improvement Plan Development
James N. Dickens Deputy Fire Chief Administration
Kristin Ray Office Assistant
Tami Araojo Executive Assi to the Fire
Brande Armstrong Office Assistant
F I N A N C E & B U D G E T
The Office of Finance and Budget works for the Deputy Chief of Support Services. The team consists of an Assistant Chief of Finance and Budget/IT and Communications, the Battalion Chief of Strategic Planning, IT and Communications, and the Battalion Chief of Logistics, along with their respective teams. This bureau's primary responsibilities are to oversee the department's Capital Improvements Plan and general Fund annual operating budget, which also includes Information Technology and Fleet Management Budgets.
The city operates on a fiscal year budget cycle from July 1 to June 30 In FY 25-26, Suffolk Fire & Rescue operated on an operating budget of $52,385,398, designed to support the operations of 336 full-time employees The team also oversees grant management for ATL, SAFER, AFG, DHS, 4 for Life, and the VDFP Burn Building Grant Working closely with City Budget and Strategic Planning offices, the Finance and Budget team provides Fire Administration with overall budget oversight It works to ensure department goals and initiatives are funded and supported
In addition to funding provided by the City of Suffolk through the annual operating budget and the Capital Improvement Plan, Suffolk Fire & Rescue continually seeks alternative funding opportunities through local, state, and federal grants In 2025, Suffolk Fire and Rescue was awarded a total of $94,275 in grant funding
The Logistics Division for Suffolk Fire & Rescue provides efficient, effective, and reliable logistical services to support the mission, vision, and values of the organization. Our mission is to ensure the availability of essential equipment, resources, and supplies to enable operational personnel to perform their jobs safely and efficiently. Through proactive planning, coordination, and innovation, we strive to enhance operational readiness and contribute to the overall safety and well-being of Suffolk citizens and visitors.
The vision of the Suffolk Fire & Rescue Logistics Division is to streamline and centralize the procurement, management, and distribution of all essential assets needed to support the operations of Suffolk Fire & Rescue By consolidating these resources through a single portal, Logistics ensures efficient acquisition and oversight of fleet assets, facilities, fire/EMS equipment, PPE, uniforms, and janitorial supplies
Onboarding of all full-time and part-time employees
Employee retirement planning and administration
Risk Management services
Worker’s Compensation benefits
Career Path Policy administration
Benefits Administration
Promotional services
Policy development
Employee service awards
Employee health and wellness
Some highlights from our partnership with Human Resources
New Employees
In 2025, Suffolk Fire & Rescue welcomed two firefighter medics, one firefighter AEMT, two full-time paramedics, four part-time paramedics, and one part-time Project Lifesaver coordinator Welcome to the following:
Medic Harold Sprague (FT)
Medic Thomas Baron (FT)
Firefighter Adam Juma (FT)
Medic Delaney Townsend (FT)
Fire Administration partners with the staff of the Department of Human Resources to provide support for Suffolk Fire & Rescue through the following: H U M A N R E S O U R C E S & R E C R U I T M E N T
Medic Joseph Albert (FT)
Medic Wyatt Dhaliwal (FT)
Medic Rita Griffey (PT)
Medic Gregory Bush (PT)
Medic Paul Cavanaugh (PT)
Project Lifesaver Coordinator
Anna Jones (PT)
James Broglin Assistant Chief Human Services
Recruit Hiring Event
Suffolk Fire & Rescue held a two-day Recruit hiring event October 17 & 18, 2025.
SuffolkFire&Rescue’sHealth,Safety&WellnessBureauremainssteadfastinitsmissionto protectandenhancethehealth,safety,andoperationalreadinessofallpersonnel The bureau’s focus continues on prevention, early detection, accountability, and the developmentofacultureofsafetyateveryleveloftheorganization.
National research consistently demonstrates the correlation between NFPA-compliant physicals,improvedphysicalfitness,andreductionsinjob-relatedinjuries,stress,and cardiaceventsEarlyidentificationofmedicalconditionsenablesmemberstoseektimely careandinterventionbeforeissuesbecomecareer-orlife-threatening.
Brown Battalion Chief Health Safety & Wellness Bureau
Raphael
Behavioral Health & Peer Support
The Peer Support Team continued regular training throughout 2025 and provided ongoing assistance to personnel. Though their work is often behind the scenes, their impact on readiness, resilience, and operational performance is immeasurable.
Injury Data & Workforce Impact
Increased staffing and operational tempo contributed to higher incident metrics in 2025:
Total Injuries: 63
2024 Injuries: 45
Increase: 40%
Lost Work Hours: ~20% increase
Extended light-duty assignments influenced lost-hour totals These assignments support recovery and retention, but rising injury numbers underscore the critical need for proactive prevention, physical readiness, and situational awareness.
Vehicle Accidents & Risk Management
Vehicular incidents rose in 2025, reflecting higher operational demand:
Total Accidents: 45
2024 Accidents: 39
Increase: 16%
Preventable and non-preventable determinations were issued through the Accident Review Board (ARB). Participation in remedial driving interventions occurred, and ongoing operator training remains a priority. Operational driving risk continues to be one of the most significant liabilities in the fire service, requiring continuous evaluation, accountability, and officer-level oversight
Program Status & Organizational Development
While 2025 did not include major accreditation updates, grant awards, or policy overhauls, the Bureau remained focused on sustaining programs and managing increased operational demands. Measurable trends in compliance, injuries, and vehicle incidents provide actionable insights for strategic improvement.
Looking Forward to 2026
The Health, Safety & Wellness Bureau will prioritize: Restoring and improving NFPA physical compliance rates; Expanding occupational cancer screening initiatives; Growing the Peer Fitness Trainer program; Strengthening injury prevention strategies; Reassessing driver training and accountability standards; and Enhancing data-driven decision-making
Health, Safety & Wellness is the operational backbone of Suffolk Fire & Rescue. It enables consistency, readiness, and mission success A department cannot deliver professional, reliable service without a workforce that is medically cleared, physically prepared, and safety-focused.
U The Suffolk Fire & Rescue Training Bureau provides comprehensive, high-quality training designed to enhance the operational efficiency and effectiveness of its fire and rescue personnel. Throughout the year, the Bureau remains focused on preparing members to meet the evolving demands of emergency response while maintaining the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and operational readiness. Training initiatives are structured to support both organizational goals and the individual development of personnel at varying stages of their careers.
T R A I N I N G B U R E A
A significant component of the Bureau’s efforts in 2025 was the delivery of foundational training to recruit firefighters Recruit programs emphasized core firefighting and emergency medical skills ensuring new members enter operations prepared to perform effectively These programs combined classroom instruction, hands-on practical exercises, and scenario-based training to build a strong and consistent operational foundation aligned with departmental standards
Equally important was the continued training and professional development of incumbent personnel The Training Bureau provided ongoing education to ensure current members maintained proficiency and strengthened skills Incumbent training included refresher courses, specialized certifications, and leadership development designed to reinforce best practices and promote continuous improvement across all ranks.
All training delivered by the Bureau reflects Suffolk Fire & Rescue’s role as an all-hazards organization. Programs were designed to prepare personnel for a wide range of incidents, including fire suppression, emergency medical services, technical rescue, and hazardous materials response. By integrating diverse operational disciplines into a cohesive training framework, the Training Bureau ensures that personnel are equipped to respond effectively to growing demands.
Incumbent Fire Training
In January, twenty members participated in our inaugural Officer Development Program This five-day, off-site program was hosted overlooking the Nansemond River at the historic Obici House Students had the opportunity to hear from organizational leaders on topics ranging from operational expectations to budget and finance Officer Development was designed as an open learning environment fostering strong leadership for future company officers
Inaugural Officer Development Program participants
Kyle Hehl Battalion Chief Training
In February, all on-duty crews participated in our annual Managing the Mayday drill, a training event focused on firefighter rescue and survival. This year’s intensive exercise represented the culmination of four years of progressive training conducted at Driver Elementary School. Crews were challenged with a complex scenario involving the rescue of multiple firefighters from belowgrade environments, requiring coordinated decisionmaking, communication, and technical skill The drill emphasized a return to foundational Mayday principles while simultaneously incorporating advanced Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) techniques The drill was widely regarded as a great success while incorporating the Portsmouth Fire Department and the Chesapeake Fire Department as partners in our auto-aid effectiveness.
April marked the fourth annual Truck Company Operations School The course combined one day of classroom instruction with four days of intensive handson training Designed for personnel currently assigned to, or preparing for assignment on, one of the city’s four ladder companies, the course emphasized advanced truck company operations Training evolutions focused on apparatus placement, forcible entry, ventilation, search and rescue, ground ladder deployment, and coordinated fireground operations.
In October, students participated in the second annual Engine Company Operations School Crews had the unique opportunity to conduct two days of high-fidelity simulations at Swanson Homes in Portsmouth, Virginia followed by two days of scenario-based training under live fire conditions at the Virginia Beach Fire Training Center.
Training evolutions focused on tactical considerations, water supply, apparatus placement, and hose line stretches/ advancement for the first due engine company
February Mayday Drill
Graduation of HRFA 70 & 71
August 14, 2025, marked the successful graduation of 32 recruits from the Hampton Roads Fire Academy (HRFA) Classes 70 and 71 following the completion of a rigorous year-long fire academy. Throughout the academy, recruits demonstrated commitment, resilience, and professionalism as they progressed through an intensive curriculum.
Upon graduation, all recruits achieved certifications in Firefighter I and II, Hazardous Materials Operations and Awareness, Firefighter Survival, EVOC Class III, Driver Pump Operator, and Advanced Emergency Medical Technician, to include MCI I and II certifications. Their accomplishments reflect both individual dedication and the Training Bureau’s commitment to developing highly skilled, adaptable responders capable of serving the community as part of an all-hazards fire and rescue organization
EMS Training
The Training Bureau held 20 Basic Life Support (BLS) courses throughout the year to recertify Suffolk Fire & Rescue personnel. These courses ensured members maintained compliance with state and national certification requirements. Emphasis was placed on high-quality CPR, patient assessment, and teambased resuscitation skills. The consistent delivery of BLS training strengthened foundational life-saving skills across the department.
The Training Bureau also conducted 20 Advanced Cardiac Life Support classes for Suffolk Fire & Rescue personnel These courses focused on advanced airway management, cardiac rhythms, pharmacology, and leadership during high-acuity medical emergencies Personnel were trained using current evidence-based guidelines to enhance patient outcomes This training supports the department’s ability to manage complex cardiac emergencies in the field
Additionally, 19 Pediatric Advanced Life Support classes were held to recertify Suffolk Fire & Rescue personnel. These courses emphasized pediatric assessment, respiratory emergencies, and cardiac arrest management in children. Hands-on scenarios allowed members to practice critical decision-making in high-stress situations. This training ensured personnel remain prepared to provide advanced care to pediatric patients within the community.
In conjunction with the EMS Bureau, the Training Bureau assisted with the Janu-Airway course for all personnel Subject Matter Experts were utilized to deliver high-level education and hands-on skills training The course was designed to accommodate all certification levels within the department This collaboration enhanced airway management competency and standardized care across Suffolk Fire Rescue
The Training Bureau assisted five members of the department in completing TCC’s Paramedic Program These members successfully met the academic and clinical requirements of the program The Bureau is now actively working on the release process to transition these members into Firefighter/Paramedic roles for the city. This effort supports ongoing staffing needs and enhances advanced life support capabilities.
In December, seven members were processed to begin the new Paramedic classes at Paul D. Camp Community College. The Bureau continues to monitor these members’ progress with the EMS Bureau throughout their education. This initiative reflects a continued investment in the professional development of department personnel.
The Bureau successfully released eight newly certified Paramedics in 2025. These members completed all required training, evaluations, and field release criteria. Their release increased the department’s operational readiness and advanced life support coverage This milestone represents a significant achievement for both the individuals and the Department of Fire & Rescue
The Suffolk Fire Marshal’s Office serves the citizens and visitors of a robust and rapidly growing community spanning approximately 430 square miles by delivering a comprehensive, continually evolving approach to community risk reduction. This approach systematically identifies, manages, and mitigates risks through a balanced combination of prevention, preparedness, enforcement, and response strategies
As a progressive public safety bureau, the Fire Marshal’s Office champions life safety and hazard risk reduction through plan review, inspections, code compliance, detection, investigation, and reporting, performed in concert with fire suppression activities These efforts
include origin and cause determinations, criminal investigations, and prosecution when warranted, all while fostering a culture centered on injury prevention and the overall safety of the community we serve
Our law-enforcement–certified investigators routinely partner with local, state, and federal agencies during multi-jurisdictional mutual aid responses throughout the Hampton Roads region These collaborations support the investigation and prosecution of arsons, explosions, environmental crimes, and other complex incidents, ensuring accountability while strengthening regional operational relationships
Further strengthening the Fire Marshal’s Office’s law enforcement and investigative capacity, Captain Michael S. Joseph, Deputy Fire Marshal, became the first member of Suffolk Fire & Rescue to attend and complete law enforcement training through the Hampton Roads Criminal Justice Training Academy. His participation represents a significant milestone for the Department, expanding in-house law enforcement expertise and enhancing our ability to conduct complex investigations, coordinate with regional partners, and support criminal prosecution efforts. This advancement reinforces the Office’s commitment to professional development, credentialed leadership, and a modern, multidisciplinary approach to public safety.
The scope of the Fire Marshal’s Office is broad and intentionally holistic Our operational portfolio includes criminal and background investigations, origin and cause determinations, inspections, plan reviews, community risk reduction initiatives, public education, recruitment support, and environmental crime enforcement, among other essential functions Together, these efforts form a coordinated and adaptive risk-reduction framework aligned with the City’s growth and evolving threat environment
The Suffolk Fire Marshal's Office continues to respond Department when appropriate to provide scene security for reduces staging delays and overall on-scene times, improved r the quality and continuity of patient care provided to Suffolk’s
Chris Cornwell Battalion Chief Fire Marshal
In parallel with the Suffolk Police Department this year, the Suffolk Fire Marshal's Office has brought online new Glock 45 9mm service weapons equipped with red-dot optics, further enhancing precision, situational awareness, and officer effectiveness during high-risk and critical incidents This modernization complements the Fire Marshal’s Office’s ongoing efforts to align capabilities across public safety disciplines and ensure a unified, contemporary response posture
To further support these expanded operational capabilities, Suffolk Fire & Rescue added a new K-9–equipped Ford F-150 response vehicle to the fleet this year. This purpose-built unit is outfitted with a climate-controlled canine transport system, enhanced safety features, secure equipment storage, and emergency warning packages designed to support rapid deployment and sustained operations. The addition of these vehicles improves response times, expands deployment flexibility across the entire region’s footprint, and ensures the health, safety, and operational readiness of both handlers and canine partners. Collectively, these fleet enhancements strengthen Suffolk’s ability to deliver timely, effective, and resilient public safety services in both emergency and community-focused missions
New this year:
Partnering with our Commwealth's Attorney's Office
The Fire Marshal’s Office in collaboration and coordination with prosecutors in the Commonwealth's Attorney's Office as a part of the newly developed Environmental Justice Program ensures that environmental incidents and violations are investigated, documented, and enforced with the same rigor, accountability, and professionalism as all other investigative assignments. The on-call or lead Fire Marshal’s Office Investigator is responsible for managing environmental investigations during both business hours and after-hours responses, without deviation from established investigative standards or legal obligations
F I R E M A R S H A L ' S O F F I
The assigned investigator conducts all required law enforcement and regulatory duties with integrity and consistency. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: securing and documenting required Hazardous Materials Release forms; and issuing Virginia Uniform Summonses for applicable misdemeanors and felonies when warranted. Investigators also coordinate and conduct follow-up actions with licensed cleanup and remediation contractors, ensure proper scene control and processing, collect and preserve evidence, and notify appropriate local, state, and federal agencies as required.
By integrating a specifically assigned Environmental Investigator into the Fire Marshal’s Office’s existing response and enforcement framework, the Environmental Justice Program ensures equitable enforcement of environmental laws, timely mitigation of hazards, protection of public health, and accountability for actions that negatively impact the community or environment This program reinforces the Office’s commitment to safeguarding Suffolk’s residents, natural resources, and infrastructure through consistent, legally sound, and mission-driven enforcement practices
Finally, the Department continues to aggressively recruit and retain top-tier public safety professionals, supported by comprehensive background investigations for prospective Suffolk Fire & Rescue personnel This investment in people remains foundational to sustaining operational excellence and long-term community trust
Collectively, these initiatives represent an integrated and forward-leaning approach to community risk reduction, reinforcing Suffolk’s commitment to preparedness, responder safety, and the protection of life and property
In 2025, Fire & Life Safety Camp continued to evolve with a refreshed and engaging program. This year, we hosted four camps and educated 100 campers, supported by the dedication of 10 volunteer counselors. Camp ran daily from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with an emphasis on outdoor activity, fresh air, and classic calisthenics to keep campers active and energized Each morning began with the Pledge of Allegiance, a now-established camp tradition that helped set a positive tone for the day
As always, campers learned critical fire and life safety skills, including how to check smoke alarms, how to get low and go when an alarm sounds, and how to create a home escape plan with their families. Bicycle safety and the importance of wearing a helmet were also key lessons.
Throughout the week, campers explored a wide range of safety and wellness topics, including water safety, hiking safety, stranger awareness, health and nutrition, fitness, personal accountability, wildfire awareness, camping safety, when and how to call 911, and what firefighters really do during a typical day The result was a busy, fun-packed camp that blended learning, activity, and hands-on experiences to leave a lasting impact on every camper
OfficeofEmergencyManagement
The City of Suffolk’s Office of Emergency Management (OEM) coordinates City planning, response, and recovery efforts before, during, and after large-scale events and emergencies The OEM is responsible for developing and implementing citywide programs and projects that promote disaster planning, training, mitigation, prevention, response, and recovery from all identified hazards OEM manages the City’s Emergency Operations Center and coordinates multiple local and regional projects in conjunction with other Hampton Roads jurisdictions and the Hampton Roads Planning District Commission’s All Hazard Advisory Committee. E M E R G E N C Y M A N A G E M E N T
The Office of Emergency Management falls under Deputy City Manager Azeez Felder while the Interim City Manager Kevin Hughes serves as the Emergency Management Director for the City of Suffolk. The Suffolk City Council appoints the Emergency Management Coordinator to manage the day-day activities of the OEM. This position carries full authority to execute all assigned aspects of the emergency management process
On May 6, 2025, Suffolk Fire & Rescue hosted the annual EOC Leadership Training at Station 6.
ProjectLifesaverisacommunity-basedpublicsafetyprogramdesignedtoprotectindividuals whoareatriskforwanderingduetocognitiveconditionssuchasAlzheimer’sdisease,autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome, and related disorders The program provides rapid response capability through electronic tracking technology and trained responders, significantly reducing search times and improving outcomes for vulnerable populations
Suffolk Fire & Rescue administers Project Lifesaver citywide, ensuring program availability acrossallfirestationsandmaintainingreadinessforimmediateresponse
These individuals represent some of the most vulnerable members of the community, for whomrapidlocationiscriticaltopreventinginjuryorlossoflife.
Operations&Readiness
Project Lifesaver response capability is embedded throughout Suffolk Fire & Rescue Every fire station is equipped with the tools necessary to conduct electronic search operations, ensuring immediate response regardless of location within the city. All Suffolk firefighters receiveProjectLifesavertrainingandarerecertifiedeverytwoyears,maintainingproficiency inequipmentuse,searchtechniques,andsaferecoveryprocedures
CommunityPartnerships&Support
The Project Lifesaver Program is supported through donations, grants, and fundraising efforts, with no reliance on general fund operational budgets for equipment procurement Oversight and community engagement are provided by the Project Lifesaver Board of Directors,whichiscomprisedofdedicatedSuffolkcitizens.TheBoardplaysacriticalrolein:
Communityawarenessandoutreach
Fundraisingandgrantsupport
Programguidanceandsustainability
Inaddition,ThePilotClubservesasakeypartnerinprogrammaintenancebyassistingwith transmitterbatterychangesforenrolledchildreninlocalschools.During2025,thePilotClub performed battery changes for 23 of the program’s 27 enrolled children, ensuring uninterrupted functionality of lifesaving equipment These battery changes are conducted duringschoolhours,minimizingdisruptiontofamilieswhilemaximizingprogramreliability
Empowering Education Through Scholarships
In 2025, Local 2801 reached an important milestone by raising $11,000 during their Third Annual Golf Tournament. These funds allowed us to award four $1,500 scholarships to outstanding students: Kaylee Bland, Lauren Gray, Will Kessinger, and Danielle Mann. They are proud to invest in the future of these deserving recipients and remain committed to supporting educational opportunities for our members’ families and our community.
Standing United Against Cancer
Through their Battling Cancer series, Local 2801 raised $3,000 to assist the spouse of one of Local 2801 members in her courageous fight against cancer The funds were directed toward medical expenses, reflecting our unwavering commitment to care for our own during times of hardship Supporting one another in moments of need remains a defining principle of our union
Prioritizing Health and Wellness
In 2025, Local 2801 placed renewed emphasis on proactive health and wellness initiatives They expanded access to mental health resources, encouraged routine medical screenings, and promoted fitness and injury-prevention programs Protecting their members’ health is not optional; it is foundational to the strength and longevity of their organization This commitment was further reinforced at the national level with the passage of the Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act, signed into law in December 2025 as part of the National Defense Authorization Act. The law formally recognizes occupational cancer as a line-of-duty death under the Public Safety Officers' Benefits Program, making families eligible for more than $460,000 in federal death and education benefits, retroactive to 2020. This landmark legislation was strongly championed by the International Association of Fire Fighters, whose sustained advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill were instrumental in advancing federal cancer presumption protections for firefighters nationwide.
Advocating for Firefighters’ Interests
The Local 2801 Executive Board remains steadfast in advocating for policies, resources, and programs that support the total well-being of their members, physically, mentally, and financially They continue to engage elected officials, communicate the challenges facing today’s fire service, and advance practical solutions They are encouraged by ongoing discussions and commitments regarding key priorities, including: utilization of unused sick leave prior to retirement, Step Plan progression; and Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLAs)
Additionally, Local 2801 will continue working collectively with the IAFF 6th District and demonstrating support in Richmond for legislative initiatives that directly impact the fire service
A Vision for 2026
As they look toward 2026, Local 2801 remains resolute in their mission to support our firefighters, their families, and the broader community. Through continued fundraising, expanded wellness initiatives, legislative advocacy, and charitable engagement, they will build upon this year’s momentum. Together, they will continue to strengthen their membership, uphold their values, and ensure a sustainable future for the Suffolk Professional Firefighters.
